Posted on 07 Mar, 2023

Water damage emergencies can happen at any time, and when they do, they can be overwhelming and stressful. Whether it's a burst pipe, a leaking roof, or flooding caused by severe weather, the first few hours after water damage occurs are critical in minimizing the damage and preventing mold growth.

As a business specialized in Water Damage Restoration, Mold Remediation, and Drying services, Velocity Pro Restoration of Kissimmee has seen it all. In this blog post, we will provide you with some essential steps to take while waiting for help to arrive after a water damage emergency.

Turn Off the Water Supply

The first and most crucial step is to turn off the water supply. This step will stop the water from flowing and causing further damage. If you are unsure where the main water supply shut off valve is, look for it in the basement, crawlspace, or outside the house near the foundation. Once you locate the valve, turn it off.

Turn Off the Electricity

Water and electricity don't mix, and it's essential to turn off the electricity if you suspect that water has come into contact with electrical outlets or appliances. Turn off the main breaker box if you can safely do so.

Remove Standing Water

If there is standing water in your home or business, it's important to remove it as quickly as possible. The longer water sits, the greater the damage it can cause. If you have a wet/dry vacuum, use it to remove as much water as possible. If you don't have a vacuum, use towels, mops, and buckets to remove the water.

Move Furniture and Belongings to Dry Areas

If possible, move furniture and belongings to dry areas to prevent further damage. Place aluminum foil or wood blocks under furniture legs to keep them from soaking up water from the floor. Remove any area rugs or throw rugs and hang them outside to dry.

Open Doors and Windows

Opening doors and windows can help with ventilation and air circulation, allowing the air to circulate and dry the affected areas. If it's safe to do so, turn on fans or dehumidifiers to speed up the drying process.

Document the Damage

Take photos and videos of the damage, including the affected areas and any belongings that have been damaged. This documentation can be helpful for insurance claims and will provide our restoration experts with an accurate idea of the damage.

Contact a Professional Water Damage Restoration Company

After taking the necessary steps to minimize the damage, the next step is to contact a professional water damage restoration company. Water damage restoration professionals have the equipment, experience, and expertise needed to mitigate the damage and restore your home or business to its pre-damage condition.

Avoid DIY Restoration

While it may be tempting to try to handle the water damage restoration yourself, it's important to avoid DIY restoration. Water damage restoration is a complex process that requires specialized equipment, training, and expertise. Attempting to do it yourself can lead to further damage and mold growth, which can be costly and dangerous to your health.

Don't Ignore Small Leaks

Small leaks can quickly turn into big problems if left unchecked. Even a small leak can cause significant damage over time, so it's important to address any signs of water damage as soon as possible. Keep an eye out for signs of water damage, such as damp or musty smells, discoloration or staining, or peeling paint or wallpaper.

Take Steps to Prevent Future Water Damage

Once the water damage restoration process is complete, take steps to prevent future water damage. Regularly inspect your home or business for signs of leaks or water damage, and address any issues as soon as possible. Consider installing a sump pump or a backflow prevention valve to prevent flooding.

In conclusion, water damage emergencies can be stressful and overwhelming, but taking the necessary steps while waiting for help can minimize the damage and prevent mold growth. Remember to turn off the water supply, turn off the electricity, remove standing water, move furniture and belongings to dry areas, open doors and windows, document the damage, and contact a professional water damage restoration company like Velocity Pro Restoration of Kissimmee. By following these tips and taking steps to prevent future water damage, you can protect your property and keep your family safe. 

If you need emergency water damage restoration or mold remediation services, don't hesitate to reach out to us at (407) 772-6998 or [email protected]. We are here to help you 24/7 and provide additional tips and advice for dealing with water damage emergencies.