Water Damage Emergency Tips

5/30/2018 (Permalink)

What you can do until help arrives?

Water emergencies can happen in the blink of an eye. A small leak can turn into a big leak or busted pipe. And storm water and flooding can turn into a water emergency just as quick.

You must take the proper steps during any water damage situation. Your primary focus should always be safety. First, you must ask, “Is it safe to stay in the house or business?” If the answer is yes, only then, should you locate and shut off the water source if possible. You can also call a qualified professional to help if need be. Next, and equally important, be sure to turn off the circuit breakers for the wet areas in your home or business. But please remember, only do activities that are safe for you to perform. Electrical and "slip and fall" hazards are big concerns. Wet materials can be VERY heavy and hazardous. Most importantly, be careful!

Here is a list of some tips to help when experiencing a water damage:

• Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting. Don't use your household vacuum to remove water. Leave the water mitigation to the SERVPRO team.
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and tabletop items. Don't use television or other household appliances.
• Remove and prop up wet upholstery and cushions. Don't leave wet fabrics in place.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
• Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in summer. Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging
• Remove colored rugs and items from wet carpeting.
• Remove art paintings, computers and electronics, documents and other valuables to a safe, dry place.
• Gather loose items from floors. Don't leave books, magazines on wet carpet or floors.

When the UNEXPECTED water emergency happens, the team at SERVPRO North Cabarrus County & China Grove is here to make it "Like it never even happened."