What To Do When You Have a Water Damage

7/25/2023 (Permalink)

Removal of water from a customers home

If your home or business just experienced a water damage this blog is for you. I'm sure a lot of questions are running through your head about who to call or what to do next. The first step is to call your local SERVPRO so they can inspect the damage to see if a claim needs to be filed. Why SERVPRO is on the way here are some tips to help minimize the water damage.

Water Damage from Clean Water:

• Shut off the water source if possible or contact a plumber if you cant find the source.
• Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building.
• Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping or using towels.
• Put furniture on blocks to prevent the bottom from getting wet.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture and wet carpeting.
• Do not enter affected areas if electrical outlets, switches, circuit breakers or electrical equipment are exposed to water. 
• Don't use a household vacuum to remove water. This could cause electrical shock or damage to the vacuum.

Water Damage from Contaminated Water (i.e. Sewage, Outside Water, etc.)

• Avoid all contact with sewage and any items contaminated by sewage.
• Wash your hands thoroughly after contact with contaminated items.
• Do not walk through damaged or wet areas. This could increase the possibility of spreading contamination.
• Do not use the HVAC system or fans to dry the structure, as this could spread contaminated air.
• Do not use any products for personal hygiene or cleanliness if exposed to the contaminated area.