Water Damage Emergency Tips

What you can do until help arrives

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After a water loss comes a flood of different emotions. Questions like, what do I do, or what happens now are both very common. Fortunately, your restoration specialist at SERVPRO of Wheaton/Kensington are here to help! Our experience and expertise make us a helpful ally in this troublesome time. First things first, what do you do if you walk into an actively flooding home? Having an idea of how to react and reacting can potentially avoid more damage.

What to do to prevent more water damage:  

  • Shut off the main water shut off valve of your home, this will avoid further damage due to a broken pipe.
  • Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the home. If the power distribution panel is compromised, do not touch, let the professionals handle it!
  • Remove as much excess water as possible.
  • Remove wet upholstery cushions for even drying.
  • Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.

After you have stopped the damage source, call the professionals! Allow our certified restoration technicians get you back to your pre loss condition.

Have A  Water Damage Emergency? Call (301) 933-2425

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.