What to Do Until Help Arrives (Water Damage)
6/10/2022 (Permalink)
Until help arrives, there are a few things that you can do to help mitigate the damage to your property; however, you are encouraged to only attempt tasks that you feel confident that you can safely accomplish.
- Shut off the source of water if possible. If you don't feel confident doing this yourself, consider contacting someone to help stop the water source, such as a plumber. If you are uncertain where the water is coming from, don't stress; we'll assist you with determining the source when we arrive.
- Remove excess water by mopping, blotting, or wiping. This could include flooring and hard surface furniture which has standing water on it. Do not use your household vacuum to remove water, since it could cause damage to the vacuum.
- Protect carpet, rugs, drapes, and upholstered items from further damage. Place aluminum foil or parchment paper between furniture and wet carpet or rugs. Remove rugs that may be on wet carpet. Remove books, magazines, or other colored items from carpets and rugs. Hang draperies up with coated hangers to avoid contact with wet floors. Remove pillows or cushions from wet upholstered items.
- Avoid using electric or electronic items that may have come in contact with water. This may include items such as light fixtures, ceiling fans, televisions, or appliances. If there is a possibility that someone else in the property may turn on an electric item that has come in contact with water, consider turning off the power to individual circuits within the power distribution panel of the property.