With water pouring into your home or large puddles forming, it’s easy for any homeowner to panic and make the wrong decisions. That’s why you should know what to do – and what not to do – long before any water damage event ever happens within your home. Take five minutes to read this blog and commit these rules to memory.
Don’t wade into water if you’re not sure of electrical safety. If the water is deep enough to reach electrical outlets, or if any appliances are touched by the water, you could be risking electrocution. Only enter the area of water damage if you’re certain of safety.
Don’t enter the area or try to clean if the water damage originates from sewage. Sewage represents another potentially serious health threat. Yes, the mess is disgusting and you want it cleaned up right away, but without the appropriate protective gear you might encounter serious pathogens.
Don’t delay! Water damage gets worse for every hour that surfaces are allowed to remain wet. The risk of bacterial and viral contamination, plus the growth of mold and mildew, also increases with time. We need to address cleanup and restoration immediately to reduce the risk of dangers to you and your family, and to save as much of your home’s materials or your personal possessions as possible.
The number one thing you can do is to turn off your main water supply, if the water is coming from your plumbing system. Learn where your water shutoff valve is located now, so that you know how to complete this simple but important step in the event of a water related emergency. If there is standing water, you should also turn off your power supply until help arrives and we can assess the situation.
If your home has been damaged by water, don’t delay. Call us right away, so that we can begin cleaning the area thoroughly and professionally. We can also guide you through the homeowners insurance claims process.
