Dos and Don’ts When Dealing with Water Damage

If you’re experiencing water damage in your home, your first impulse is likely to take action right away. And while for the most part, this is a smart move to prevent more water damage from occurring, it’s important to keep a few key safety measures in mind. Remembering a quick list of “dos and don’ts” will help you get rid of water damage and protect yourself.

DO

• Take action as soon as possible. If you have a leak or flood, the longer it remains, the more damage it can cause, so don’t put off repairs once you notice water where it shouldn’t be.

• Call a professional right away. While repairing a leaky faucet might be something you can accomplish yourself, for more serious water damage, you should always enlist professional help.

• Take photos of the damaged areas. Although you may be more focused on getting rid of the water, before you do so, it’s important to have a few “before” pictures for insurance purposes.

DON’T

• Touch the water. Water which originates from a clean source doesn’t pose any danger, but gray water can contain harmful mold spores, and black water may contain sewage, grease, and other dangerous materials. If a room in your home is flooded or you don’t know the origin of a leak, stay away from the water.

• Use electricity or electronic devices. This one may seem obvious, but home outlets which may have been exposed to water pose a risk of electric shock. As a general rule, don’t use any appliances or tools that require electricity in or around the water damaged area.

• Leave wet items together. Always separate wet belongings to allow them to dry more efficiently. Leaving them piled together can cause dampness to linger and can create optimal conditions for mold growth.