Water Damage Emergency Tips

What you can do until help arrives

Emergency Water Damage Tips (These tips are for clean water situations only.)

Shut off the water source if possible.
Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.
Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying.
Place aluminum foil or wood blocks under furniture legs.
Hang furs and leather goods separately at room temperature.
Remove Oriental or other colored rugs from wet carpeting.
Do not use a regular vacuum to remove water.
Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet and keep out of areas where ceilings are sagging from retained water.
Do not leave books, magazines or other colored items on wet carpeting
Don't use television or other household appliances.

Avoid all contact with sewage and items contaminated by sewage.
Wash your hands thoroughly after contact with contaminated items.
Don’t spread contaminated water by walking unnecessarily on damage or wet areas.
Don’t turn on the HVAC system if there is a possibility of spreading contaminated air.
Don’t use household fans to dry the structure and spread contaminants.
Don’t use products for personal hygiene and cleanliness if exposed to the contaminated areas.

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.

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.