Water Damage Emergency Tips

What you can do until help arrives

Water Tips  |  Fire Tips   |  Biohazard Tips   |  Mold Tips

Bio-Hazards

After any biohazard situation, your primary focus should be safety first:

  • Is it safe to stay in the house?
  • Electrical and “slip and fall” hazards are some of the most prevalent concerns.
  • Only do activities that are safe for you to perform.
  • Wet materials can be VERY heavy. Be careful!
  • State Laws and Licensing Requirements may apply.

What to do After a Biohazard:

  • Stay out of affected areas.
  • Call emergency service personnel if the situation is life-threating.
  • Treat all bodily fluids as if they are contaminated.
  • Turn off the HVAC system if there is sewage damage.

What NOT to do After a Biohazard:

  • Don’t attempt cleanup of any kind.
  • Don’t touch or handle items that might be contaminated with bodily fluids.
  • Eat, drink, smoke, apply cosmetics or handle contact lenses in affected areas.

If exposed to harmful waste, OSHA recommends a post-exposure medical evaluation. Consult your local health department or physician.

Have A  Water Damage Emergency? Call (708) 240-4873

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.