Water Damage Cleanup Immediate Actions and What to Avoid

Immediate Actions After Water Damage

Discovering water damage in your home can be overwhelming. Here are immediate steps to take:

• Safety First: Cut off electricity and gas if there's standing water.
• Call for Help: Contact a professional water damage cleanup company immediately.
• Stop the Leak: If possible, identify and stop the source of the water leak.
• Remove Standing Water: Use a wet/dry vacuum or towels to remove as much water as possible.
• Open Windows: Ventilate the affected area to prevent mold and mildew growth.

What Not to Do After Water Damage

While it's natural to want to clean up water damage yourself, here are some things you should avoid:

• Do Not Use a Regular Vacuum: It can damage the vacuum and spread contaminated water.
• Do Not Use Heat: Drying too quickly can damage wood and other materials.
• Do Not Remove Saturated Items: Wait for professionals to assess the damage and determine what can be salvaged.
• Do Not Ignore Humidity: Use a dehumidifier to prevent mold growth.
• Do Not DIY Mold Removal: Attempting to remove mold yourself can spread it and pose health risks.

Remember, water damage cleanup is best left to professionals who possess the knowledge, equipment, and experience to restore your property to its pre-damage condition.