Water Damage Emergency Tips

What you can do until help arrives

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After the water has stopped pouring through the ceiling of your Sandy area home or flowing from the toilet valve you finally have time to think about what has happened and what will have to come next.

After any water damage situation, your primary focus should be safety first. Safety for your family, for your pets and for yourself. 

  • Is it safe to stay in the house?
  • Can you manage to avoid that area for a little while?
  • Electrical and "slip and fall" hazards are some of the most prevalent concerns. How can you take precautions to avoid slip and fall concerns?
  • Only do activities that are safe for you to perform. Leave the work to the experts. 
  • Wet materials can be VERY heavy. Do not try and move materials, it can cause you pain and cause secondary damage in your home. 

Have A  Water Damage Emergency? Call (503) 665-7752

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.