Water Damage Emergency Tips

What you can do until help arrives

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In 1798 the English poet Samuel Taylor Coleridge wrote the words,

  Water, water, every where,
  And all the boards did shrink;
  Water, water, every where,
  Nor any drop to drink.

Though Coleridge was writing about the sailors plight, these words also capture a water damage event, "water, water, everywhere and not a drop to drink." 

Experiencing water damage, whether at your home or at your business, can be devastating and morale crushing.  

And questions arise, 

  • Is the property safe?
  • What are my next steps?

If you find yourself in this situation, your first step needs to be safety. Ensure the property is safe and free of environmental hazards or dangerous chemicals. 

Our local St. Louis County SERVPRO team is here for you when you need water damage restoration, and we walk through the remediation process with all owners and property managers.

Below is a list of tips to help you think through first steps. 

Have A  Water Damage Emergency? Call (314) 469-9000

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.