Water Damage Emergency Tips

What you can do until help arrives

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Oh no, water damage. It happens to the best of us. We typically think about catastrophic damage happening to other people in other places. But sometimes, the water damage comes knocking right at our door. When these situations arise, the best thing to do is remain calm and take action immediately. The longer water damage is allowed to sit, the worse the damage becomes. 

After any water damage situation, your primary focus should be safety first:

• Is it safe to stay in the house?
• Electrical and "slip and fall" hazards are some of the most prevalent concerns.
• Only do activities that are safe for you to perform.
• Wet materials can be VERY heavy. Be careful!

We know how stressful these emergency situations can be. Check out the tips below to help you think through the next steps that need to be taken.

Have A  Water Damage Emergency? Call (518) 456-1111

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.