Water Damage Emergency Tips

What you can do until help arrives

Water Tips  |  Fire Tips   |  Biohazard Tips   |  Mold Tips

What Should I Do?

When you first notice water damage, knowing what to do can save you a lot of time and money. If not taken care of promptly, water damage can cause more issues like mold. At SERVPRO of Carthage/Joplin, we are here to help 24/7. While you wait for our emergency assistance, keep these ideas close to mind to get a jump start. 

• Remove the water. Use a mopping and blotting (a fancy restoration term for patting surfaces, absorbing water while avoiding a rubbing motion) technique. 
• Wipe the water. Remove water from wood surfaces, lamps and tabletop items.
• For upholstery and cushions - remove and prop up.  
• For furniture - place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting to prevent further floor damage.
• Use your AC. Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying and moisture removal.  
• Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting, or they will stain.
• Art - move these items to a safe and dry place.
• Loose items - gather and store appropriately. 

Have A  Water Damage Emergency? Call (417) 623-1388

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.