What you can do before we arrive after a flood

8/9/2018 (Permalink)

When storm damage hits, there is often little a homeowner can do to prevent floodwaters from entering the home. These carry immense power and can seep in through even the smallest cracks. However, when it comes to preventing damage to your home and reducing costs during the restoration process, there are a few steps you can take before a SERVPRO crew arrives. If possible, carry out these tasks before we arrive, but always be mindful of your safety and health.

Put a Barrier Between Furniture and the Floor

One of the easiest ways to mitigate harm to your furniture during storm damage in Manteca is to place a small barrier between your furniture and the floor. Prop up couches, chairs, desks, tables, and anything else you can on top of wooden blocks, bricks, or some other stable object. This effort will help to keep the furniture from coming into any more direct contact with flood water.

Lay Things Out to Dry

If floodwaters have already receded from an area, you can take fabrics and objects there and place them out to dry. This placement is essential for couches and furniture with cushions/pillows because the moisture will instead become trapped inside, causing severe and often irreversible damage. Do not, however, attempt to dry items with a hair dryer or other machine. Instead, try to find a sunny or warm area to place them.

Leave Electricity Alone

Anything electrical in your home presents a major hazard following a flood, so even if you feel that turning something on is necessary, wait until a SERVPRO representative arrives to consult them. If a room is dark and you wish to enter, there may be water damage to the lights or wiring and these may present a hazard. Similarly, avoid using outlets or anything plugged in.