Before Help Arrives-Emergency Fire and Water Advice:

Water Damage

When you have had water or sewer damage to your home, you want the damage corrected as quickly as possible and rightly so! So here are some steps to take Before Help Arrives – ServiceMaster Professional Restoration…

Time is of the essence. Harmful bacteria can begin growing within hours of the water loss. Depending on a number of factors, including temperature and moisture levels, mold can begin to grow. Before we arrive, there are a few things you can do:

• Remove wet area rugs.
• Lift Draperies off the floor.
• Remove small furnishings and valuables to an unaffected area.
• Move photos, painting, and art work to a safe, dry area.

Some things not to do:

• Do not enter a room with standing water until the electricity had been turned off.
• Do not use a regular household vacuum to remove the water.
• Do not use electrical appliances while on wet flooring.
• Do not disturb visible mold.
• Do not remove books from the shelf- instead pack them tightly to prevent warping.

Fire Damage

A few helpful points after the fire is out…

We recommend that owners contact their insurance agency immediately once the fire is out. If you rent, notify the owner so both of you can assess the damage. Most insurance companies will require your Fire restoration, cleaning or smoke removal Company to be certified with the IICRC like ServiceMaster.

Remember:

• Do not use electrical appliances affected by fire damage.
• Do not attempt to clean the walls, incorrect cleaning could worsen the soot damage.
• Do not eat any open food items affected by the fire.
• Do not touch the walls, upholstery or woodwork. Body oils can cause permanent damage.
• Do not attempt to clean the carpeted floors.

Additional Resources:

• Your local fire department
• The American Red Cross www.redcross.org
• The National Institute of Fire Restoration