Immediate Actions After Water Damage

What to Do After Water Damage

Water damage can be a devastating event, causing extensive damage to your home and belongings.
Following a few simple steps can help minimize the damage and make the cleanup process easier.

1. Turn off the water source. If the water is coming from a broken pipe, turn off the water main. If the water is coming from a storm, move to higher ground and wait for the storm to pass.
2. Call your insurance company. Report the damage to your insurance company as soon as possible. They will be able to help you file a claim and get the cleanup process started.
3. Remove standing water. Use a wet/dry vacuum or pump to remove standing water from your home. Start in the areas that are most heavily damaged and work your way out.
4. Dry out your home. Open windows and doors to ventilate your home. You can also use fans to circulate the air and help dry out the walls and floors.
5. Remove damaged materials. If any of your belongings have been damaged by water, remove them from your home. This includes furniture, carpets, and clothing.

What Not to Do After Water Damage

• Do not use your vacuum cleaner to remove water. This can damage the vacuum cleaner and spread the water around.
• Do not turn on your ceiling fans. This can spread the water around and damage your ceiling.
• Do not use heat to dry out your home. This can damage your belongings and make the damage worse.
• Do not enter a flooded area. This can be dangerous and could lead to further damage.

By following these steps, you can help minimize the damage from water damage and make the cleanup process easier.