Water Damage Emergency Tips

What you can do until help arrives

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After any water damage situation no matter the cause, your primary focus should be safety first:

You may ask yourself is it safe to stay in the house or building?

  • Electrical and "slip and fall" hazards are some of the most prevalent concerns and occur more often when previous damage has happened in the hope and you and others are responding to the damage. 
  • Address where potential hazards are in the property and limit access and traffic to those areas limiting potential danger. 
  • Only do activities that are safe for you to perform.
  • Wet materials can be VERY heavy. Be careful!

Have A  Water Damage Emergency? Call (503) 907-1161

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.