Water Damage Quick Tips

Water Emergency Tips - DO

Stop water flow if possible
Remove as much water as possible
Open drawers and cabinets to begin drying process
Pin up draperies and upholstery skirts to prevent water damage
Relocate all oil paintings, art objects, and other valuables to a safe place
Remove all items like rugs, pillows, etc. and place in a dry area
Remove all loose items on the floor to a dry area
Towel dry wood furniture, counter tops, etc.
Turn on heating and/or air conditioning system, provided water has not entered the ducts
Use wax paper, aluminum foil or wood blocks under furniture that cannot be relocated to
a dry area

Enter rooms if the ceiling is wet and sagging
Go near contaminated (sewer) water
Leave absorbent materials like books, boxes, papers, pillows, etc. in the wet area
Let children or the elderly enter the affected areas
Place wet items on any absorbent surface
Turn on your ceiling fixture, heating and/or air conditioning system if water has traveled
in or through the ducts
Use electrical appliances and outlets in wet areas, especially not on concrete floors
Use your household vacuum to extract water