What to Do When You Have Water Damage
2/4/2022 (Permalink)
What To Do If Your Home Has Been Flooded
As a homeowner, at some point, you will likely experience flooding in your home. Whether from an overflowing toilet or sink, a broken water heater, a heavy storm, or broken pipes, water damage is a fact of life in Bal Harbour, FL. It’s best to call professionals to take care of repairs and water cleanup, but here are some things you can do while you’re waiting for help to arrive.
Focus on Safety
Your first concern should be your and your family’s safety. Depending on the water source, the water itself can be a significant health hazard, so if the water isn’t clean, leave the cleanup to the professionals. Keep the following in mind:
- Only do activities that are safe to perform, and wait until professionals arrive if you are unsure.
- Electrical and “slip and fall” hazards are common concerns, so be aware of electronic appliances and watch your footing.
- Remember that waterlogged furniture and other materials can be heavy, so be careful when trying to move anything out of the water.
What to Do While You Wait for Help
Depending on the amount of water damage and your safety assessment, there are some activities you can do to help with water cleanup before professionals arrive or after they begin cleanup efforts. If the amount of standing water is minimal, you may be able to remove excess water by blotting or mopping. Additional activities include:
- Removing upholstery and cushions and propping up to dry
- Turning on the air conditioner, if available, during warm weather
- Removing area rugs
- Gathering loose items from the floor
- Wiping water from the surface of wood furniture
The important thing, though, is to leave most of the cleanup up to the experts. Water damage in Bal Harbour, FL can cause serious health hazards like mold and bacteria growth if not addressed quickly and thoroughly, and a professional crew will have the equipment needed to get the job done right.