Safety first when dealing with water damage at your Western Dutchess County home

6/18/2019 (Permalink)

The weight and force behind water are just some of the reasons it causes the most damage to properties.

If you find yourself dealing with a water damage emergency at your Western Dutchess County property, many questions are running through your mind. When you’re looking at the reality of the situation, it’s common to want to get everything fixed immediately, but safety is key and there are some important points to be aware of during this overwhelming time:

DO:

-Shut off the source of the water if possible or contact a qualified party to stop the water source.

-Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the home or building, but ONLY when access to the power distribution panel is safe from electric shock.

-Call us as soon as the water is off and you’re safe, (845)831-3600, no matter what time of day. We’re faster to any size disaster.

-If you can, remove as much excess water as possible by towels and mopping.

-Remove lamps and tabletop items to a dry spot, try to wipe excess water from wood furniture.

-Relocate and prop up wet couch cushions and pillows.

-If you have any paintings, art objects, computers, documents, paperwork, publications and other materials that are valuable or sensitive to moisture, get them to a safe and dry spot quickly. Leaving books, newspapers, magazines or other colored items on wet carpets or floors can cause staining. We can help dry out all of them items too. Our “restore vs. replace” methods will help keep the costs down as well to both you and your insurance company.

DON'T:

*DO NOT enter rooms with standing water where electrical shock hazards may exist.

*AVOID electrical shock hazards. DO NOT enter affected areas if any electrical outlets, switches, circuit breakers or electrical equipment are exposed to water.

-Your household vacuum cleaner is not built to remove water. Don’t ever bother as it could possibly cause electrical shock or damage to the vacuum cleaner.

-Anything electrical is going to be a hazard right now. Don’t use TV's or other appliances while standing on wet carpets or floors, especially not on wet concrete floors.

-Same with ceiling fixtures, leave them alone. If the ceiling is wet or if water has entered rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water, it’s dangerous to try your ceiling fan.

Safety is first and foremost when it comes to water damage in your home. Following these DO & DON'Ts can help reduce damage and increase the chances of a successful restoration. These emergency tips will assist you in taking the proper action until the SERVPRO of Western Dutchess County trained professionals arrive. We’re here to help!