Water Damage - Do's & Don'ts

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1. Ensure that the water source is eliminated. 

2. IF it is safe – turn off circuit breakers supplying electricity to wet areas. THEN unplug and remove and small electrical devices currently located in wet rooms. Wear rubber boots. 

3. Remove small furnishings from carpet to prevent rust or stains. 

4. Place aluminum foil under legs of wood furniture to prevent stains – especially antiques. 

5. Hang draperies and pin up furniture skirts to avoid contact with wet floors and prevent water marks. 

6. Remove books, shoes, paper goods, fabrics, potted plants, or other items that may stain floors. Check especially under beds and closets. 

7. Remove and store breakables, moisture-sensitive, or high-value items. 

8. Plan for our restoration crew to move large furniture into dry areas with hard flooring, or garage/storage areas. 

9. Wash your hands thoroughly after handling wet items. 

1. Use ANY type of home vacuum (including shop vacs), as this could result in electrical shock and potential damage to equipment.

2. Place newspaper on traffic areas since the ink will transfer to flooring.

3. Walk on wet carpet any more than necessary; damage could occur. 

4. Turn on heating or air conditioning units, as this could spread contamination. 

5. Increase or decrease temperature unless instructed by technician or inspector. 

6. In sewage losses, DO NOT:

a. Handle directly contaminated items. 

b. Consume food or use personal hygiene items that were left in contaminated areas. 

c. Turn on fans or use any vacuum equipment. 

d. Stay on the property if you have respiratory problems such as allergies, asthma, are under age 2, over age 60, are pregnant, have a weak immune system, or have had a recent surgery.