Water Damage Emergency Tips

What you can do until help arrives

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Water damage prevention tips:

  • Secure toilet seats when there are children and pets present
  • Insulate pipes
  • Shut off hose bibs and sprinkler systems prior to bad weather
  • Do not take run a bath when you are tired or intoxicated (We got more bathtub overflows than one would think)
  • Maintain your roof and gutters to ensure they are free of moss and debris

Do's:

  • Know where you main water shut off is
  • Put a bucket under any active leaks until professionals arrive
  • Call your local SERVPRO if you see evidence of a water loss
  • Do let faucets drip when the temperature is freezing. This helps stop pipes from freezing
  • Do make sure you do not leave electronics on the floor. 

Dont's:

  • Do not go near frayed wires or electrical outlets
  • Do not try to mitigate the water loss, call a professional as soon as possible.
  • Do not use a household vacuum to remove excess water

Have A  Water Damage Emergency? Call (503) 648-8513

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.