“People say after a fire, it is water damage that is worst. We are still drying out Windsor Castle” - Prince Philip

Introduction

The following Emergency Tips were compiled by members and staff of the National Institute of Disaster Restoration based on their wide experience with various types of damage. It is not likely that your situation will require all of these procedures. Apply those which common sense indicates are appropriate.

Water damage arises from fire damage, broken pipes, blocked drains, malfunctioning appliances, storms and other causes. The appropriate treatment depends on the nature of the damage. Some water carries contaminants and should be considered hazardous (see Sewage and Flood Damage). Whatever the origin the prospects for restoration depend largely on the speed with which your building and personal property can be dried. Even clean water can generate mildew and other bacterial growth if neglected.

3 Things To Do Immediately You See Water Damage.

1. Ventilate Wet Areas

• Turn on air conditioning for accelerated drying in summer.

• In winter alternate cycles of opened windows and heating.

• Open drawers and cabinet doors for interior drying, but do not force open stuck drawers or doors

2. Sponge & Blot

• Remove standing water from flat surfaces by sponging and blotting.

• Take out saturated rugs and carpets when hardwood floors are at risk.

• Stay out of rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water

3. Protect Valuables

• Transport computers to a dry environment, remove cases and blow dry with low-pressure air.

• Remove lamps, telephones and decorative items from wet furniture tops.

• Freeze valuable books and documents to retard mildew growth until drying can be performed.

• Place aluminum foil squares, saucers or wood blocks under furniture legs to avoid carpet staining

3 Things You Should Avoid After You See Water Damage.

1. Do Not Use Electrical Appliances Without Protection.

Do not operate televisions, vacuums or other appliances while standing on wet carpet or floors, especially not on wet concrete floors. Serious injury may result.

2. Do Not Use Heat To Dry

Using heat to dry closed building interiors will cause mildew to grow and expanded moisture damage may result.

3. Do Not Leave Wet Fabrics In Place

Do not leave wet fabrics in place, space them apart and dry as soon as possible.

Recommendations

Speak to the experts at equi-linc for all your water damage repair, structural drying, mold abatement or water extraction service needs.

Our certified technicians will walk through every step of this process with you ensuring not only the water damage repair but also prevention from it happening again in future emergencies or disasters alike.

Finally we will return the space to one that you desire so that you can enjoy the improved home without worry and knowing it is safe from the past damage.

Call us today on 213-361-8214

Disclaimer: The information and our technical advice – whether verbal or in writing or by way of trials – are given in good faith, but without warranty, and this also applies where proprietary rights of third parties are involved. Our advice does not release you from the obligation to check its validity and to test products as to the suitability for the intended processes and uses.