• Turn off the power
• Attempt to locate the source of water & shut it off if possible
• Use caution when walking on wet floors

Once the area has been secured:

• Remove as much water as possible by mopping and blotting
• Wipe furnishings dry
• Block furnishings with pieces of wood or Styrofoam if the items are too large for removal from the damaged area. Be careful not to place anything with dye or color against damp surfaces as the colors may bleed and cause further damage
• Lift any window treatments off carpet, loop through a non-metal coat hanger, and place hanger on the drapery rod
• Remove wet area rugs or other floor coverings
• Open furniture drawers, closet doors and luggage to enhance drying
• Move photos, paintings, and art objects to a safe, dry location
• Remove wet fabrics and dry them as soon as possible. Hang furs and leather goods to dry separately at room temperature
• Remove damp books from shelves and spread out to dry
• If damage occurs during a cool season, leave heat on. Do NOT turn the heat up to high as it can accelerate damage. Try to maintain an even temperature of 72 degrees F; if in summer, use an air conditioner if available
• Inventory damaged merchandise and promptly remove to be dried if damage occurs in a place of business. Salvage value would generally be assessed by the adjuster

Important DO NOT’S with water damage:

• Never use an ordinary household vacuum to remove water
• Never use electrical appliances while on wet carpet or wet floors
• Never go into rooms with standing water if the electricity is on
• Never lift tacked down carpet without professional help. Lifting the carpet incorrectly could promote shrinkage