Water Damage...What to Do After

In the unfortunate event that you should have water come into your home, follow the tips below to ensure a safe recovery.

Do:

• Remove as much excees water as possible by mopping and blotting
• Wipe water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and table top items
• Remove or prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying (check for possible bleeding)
• Place aluminum foil, china sauces or wooden blocks btween furniture legs and wet carpeting
• Turn on air conditioning for maximum drying in summer; open window to speed drying in winter
• Open doors and cabinet drawers for complete drying (do not force however)
• Remove valuable oil paintings and art objects to a safe place
• Blot wet carpeting with clean white towels
• Open suitcases and luggage to dry, in sunlight if possible
• Punch small holes in sagging coilings to relieve trapped water (don't forget to place pans beneath)

Do Not:

• Leave wet fabrics in place; dry as soon as possible.  Hang furs and leather goods to dry separately at room temperature
• Leave books, magazines, or other colored items on carpets and fabrics
• Use your household vacuum to remove water
• Turn on ceiling fixtures, if ceiling is wet, keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water