Save Your Stuff When Water Attacks

6/29/2022 (Permalink)

This house had two feet of water in the basement.

No one wants to walk into a room full of water, but it happens.  What doesn't normally happen is an immediate reaction to save your belongings.  Many customers feel so overwhelmed that they don't think of what to do first.  We want to give you a list of things to do, so you can save as many belongings as possible.

1.  STOP THE WATER!  If you can't figure out where the water is coming from, then shut off the main water valve.  Make sure that there is no more water coming into the room

2. SHUT OFF ANY AFFECTED UTILITIES.  If water is coming through electrical outlets, make sure to turn the power to them off.

3.  If you air conditioner and ducts weren't affected by the water damage, TURN IT ON for at least the first 24 hours to decrease the humidity. 

4. Call SERVPRO of Blackfoot/Pocatello.  We'll get a crew together to get out and help you start the next part of the process.

5.  Get out the water.  Using an extractor, water pump, and even buckets, get as much water out as you can.

6. Get all documents and photos that are water damaged, put them in a ziplock bag, and FREEZE THEM.  It will help them be restored later.

7.  Start washing all clothes, bedding, towels, and other linens that might grow mold.  Getting them clean ASAP is going to save them later.

8.  Remove everything that you can, but if you can't remove furniture, at least wrap the legs in foil to prevent more water damage or stains.

9. Leave the carpet alone.  A restoration company will handle the carpet so that it can be saved or replaced, but insurance will want to see the carpet in place first.

10.  Make sure you wipe all of the excess water from furniture and belongings.  Get it off quickly to prevent damage.

SERVPRO of Blackfoot/Pocatello will help you with all of this, and then they will place fans and dehumidifiers throughout the room in a scientifically proven manner that will help dry your home out fast.  Our experienced technicians know how to utilize the space and the air movement to take care of you.  Then they will begin the process of removing all affected materials that might further get damaged.

We know having a flood is difficult, but we're here for you.  Call us today at (208) 242-3819