Water Damage Emergency Tips

What you can do until help arrives

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During an emergency water damage situation, there are a lot of decisions that you have to make in a short period of time, and even after the initial damage, it can often feel as though you are powerless to do anything until help arrives. Allow us to give some clarity on what to take care of first and what can be left to the professionals.

There are several different kinds or causes of water damages and the details on what you can do may vary when dealing with a busted pipe, flood damage, or sewage line. Generally speaking though, these are the most important problems to tackle first.

• Is it safe to stay in the house?
• Is it possible to stop the flow of water?
• Is help on the way?

It might be a bit of a surprise and sound a bit like common sense but these are hands down the most important things to worry about when dealing with a water damage emergency. Make sure it’s safe to be in the house, stop the water if you can, and get someone on their way as soon as possible.

Have A  Water Damage Emergency? Call (256) 392-5141

What To Do After Flooding

• Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and tabletop items.
• Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
• Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in summer.
• Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting.
• Remove art objects to a safe, dry place.
• Gather loose items from floors.

What NOT To Do After Flooding

• Don't leave wet fabrics in place. Hang furs and leather goods.
• Don't leave books, magazines or other colored items on wet carpet or floors.
• Don't use your household vacuum to remove water.
• Don't use television or other household appliances.
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging.