Do’s and Don’ts during Water Damage

Do

Don’t

DO Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting.DO Wipe as much excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and tabletop items.

DO Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying (check for possible bleeding).

DO Place aluminum foil, china saucers or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.

DO Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in summer; open windows to speed drying in winter.

DO Remove Orientals or other colored rugs from wet wall-to-wall carpeting.

DO Open drawers and cabinet doors for complete drying. (Do not force, however.)

DO Remove valuable paintings and art objects to a safe place.

DO Open suitcases and luggage to dry, in sunlight, if possible.

DO Punch small holes in sagging false ceilings to relieve trapped water. (Don’t forget to place pans underneath.)

DON’T Leave wet fabrics in place; dry as soon as possible, hang furs and leather goods to dry separately at room temperature.DON’T Leave books, magazines or other colored items on wet carpets or floors.

DON’T Use your household vacuum to remove water.

DON’T Use TV’s or other appliances while standing on wet carpets or floors, especially not on wet concrete floors.

DON’T Turn on ceiling fixtures (fans, lights) if ceiling is wet, and keep out of rooms where false ceilings are sagging from retained water.