Water Damage Emergency Tips

What you can do until help arrives

Water Tips  |  Fire Tips   |  Biohazard Tips   |  Mold Tips

Water might help our bodies live and stay hydrated, but it sure can wreak havoc on a home or your business. When the unfortunate event of water damage happens, our team of trained restoration technicians at SERVPRO of Whitemarsh/Cheltenham is here to help 24/7, 365. While you wait for our assistance to arrive, our team has a few simple steps you can take immediately:

  1. Cautiously inspect the damage to ensure safety before taking any action. Make note of environmental hazards or dangerous chemicals/material if applicable. 
  2. Remove furniture, wall hangings or any loose items in the affected area. Rugs, books and any personal items should be moved as soon as possible to avoid mold damage. 
  3. Disconnect all electronic devices and move them into a different location. Electricity might need to be completely shut off depending on the damage and the water damage source. 
  4. Dry excess water using available air conditioning, fans, dehumidifiers and mops. Opening doors and windows can also improve ventilation and circulation. 

Use these tips to start off cleanup, and our team at SERVPRO of Whitemarsh/Cheltenham will be happy to help with storm damage, ice damage, frozen pipes and winter weather damage.  

Have A  Water Damage Emergency? Call (610) 834-5405

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.