Water Damage Emergency Tips

What you can do until help arrives

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    • Stop and Identify the water source.
    • Turn off all electrical appliances in the surrounding area.
    • Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping, sweeping and blotting with white towels.
    • Place foam blocks, plastic, wax paper, or aluminum foil around furniture legs to avoid contact with the water.
    • Lift curtains, draperies, and bed skirts off the floor to prevent water marking and dye transfer.
    • Remove all area rugs to prevent staining on wall to wall carpeting.
    • Remove any items that are stored under beds.
    • Move wall hangings and paper documents to a safe and dry location.
    • Remove and wipe excess water from furniture.
    • DO NOT use electrical appliances and outlets in wet areas.
    • DO NOT use your household vacuum to remove water.
    • DO NOT use an electric heater to dry carpet. It can lead to more damage and microbial growth.
    • DO NOT enter rooms if the ceiling is sagging with water.
    • DO NOT turn off ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet.
    • DO NOT tear out carpet and padding as this could cause further – if not permanent – damage.
    • DO NOT turn off power to circuit breaker if it is wet. Call your local power provider instead.
    • DO NOT leave newspapers, books, or magazines on wet floors; this may cause ink transfer.
    • DO NOT step in water that has reached electrical outlets. Especially outlets located on floors.


Have A  Water Damage Emergency? Call (281) 342-5326

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.