After any water damage situation, your #1 focus needs to be safety. Ask yourself:
• If it is safe to go into the house?
• Are there any electrical or “slip and fall” hazards?
• Are there any do activities that are safe to perform?
What To Do After Flooding
• Remove any excess water by mopping and blotting.
• Remove lamps and tabletop items from wood furniture before wiping water away.
• Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions.
• Place wood blocks or aluminum foil between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
• For maximum drying in summer turn the air conditioning on.
• Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting.
• Remove art objects and store in a safe, dry place.
• Gather any loose items from floors.
What NOT To Do After Flooding
• Don’t leave wet fabrics in place. You should hang furs and leather goods.
• Don’t leave magazines, books 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 until inspected by a professional.
• Don’t turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, and make sure to keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging.