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Fire & Water - Cleanup & Restoration

Archived Water Damage Blog Posts

Tips to Avoid Frozen Pipes

1/2/2022 (Permalink)

Now that the holidays have passed, the coldest days of winter are coming. One of the most frustrating parts of home ownership is frozen pipes. Here are some tips to keep that from happening:

  • If there are water supply lines in the garage, keep the doors closed. 
  • Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate around the pipes, especially if they're on exterior walls. 
  • Let the cold water trickle from your faucets. Running water helps prevent pipes from freezing.
  • Keep the thermostat set to the same temperature during day and night. It may feel like a good idea to save some money by turning down the heat, but it is not worth it if you end up with busted pipes.
  • If you plan to be away during cold weather, leave the heat on in your home, set to a temperature no lower than 55°. Again, now is not the time to try to save a few pennies. 

Sometimes we do everything we can and pipes still freeze and burst. If that happens, call SERVPRO of North Huntsville and we'll help make it "Like it never even happened."

What Tools Does SERVPRO Use That Homeowners Don't Have?

12/12/2021 (Permalink)

When water damages occur in Huntsville homes, efficiency prevents unnecessary tear out and discarding materials and contents. 

When you consider the immense undertakings of restoring damaged Huntsville homes after water disasters, you can quickly see how out of control the situation can become without the appropriate experience, tools, and available professionals. Our SERVPRO team stays ready for water emergencies by keeping pre-stocked trailers and production vehicles loaded with efficient, industry-leading tools and machines for all water restoration facets. 

Part of the fast response our professionals can provide for water damage in Huntsville homes hinges on our ability to mobilize quickly when you call. We have technicians trained in each area of Water Restoration (WRT), Applied Structural Drying (ASD), Applied Microbial Remediation (AMRT), and Carpet Cleaning (CCT) through the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC.) Some of the unique tools and products our professionals can utilize on restoration tasks include:

  • Squeegee Wands – Removing surface water with vacuums and attachments like these can often be one of the priorities of restoration, especially considering how pooling can damage exposed materials. 
  • Antimicrobial Products – Surface cleaning is also a large focal point for our restoration team, as preventative measures taken initially can reduce the potential for mold growth. 
  • Desiccant Dehumidifiers – While desiccants are a staple of drying in colder temperatures uncommon to Alabama, they are used because they reintroduce dry, warm air back into the work area to promote further evaporation. 

How Can SERVPRO Tell the House is Dry? 

We double-check our drying and restoration efforts using multiple tools. By investigating the property for further water damage signs, we can direct drying tools to these areas to prevent microbial growth. Some of these discovery devices include:

  • Moisture Meters
  • Hygrometers
  • Thermal Imagery

Restoration of water damages can be a complicated situation for inexperienced homeowners, but our SERVPRO of North Huntsville team can help. 

How does SERVPRO remediate flooding in your crawlspace?

11/23/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Air Movers in Crawlspace SERVPRO Air Movers in Crawlspace

The crawlspace under your home is a structural design built to reduce the exposure of your main floor to damage from sources such as flooding. Unfortunately, your crawlspace itself can be flooded. While this might not be as pressing and severe as several inches of standing water in the main level of your residence, it is a situation that you want to take care of as soon as possible.

Flood extraction in Madison county homes and their crawlspaces requires a series of powerful tools and proven approaches. Because your crawlspace is a confined area, the methods of extraction and drying change and can be much more complicated. You can count on SERVPRO  of North Huntsville to help. 

Should I Do Anything About Flood Water in My Crawl Space?

You would not be alone in thinking that standing flood water in your crawlspace is not a considerable problem. You might even be among the homeowners that initially choose to do nothing about this circumstance, assuming that it can get better on its own through natural drainage. In truth, there are many reasons that crawl space flooding should be resolved as soon as it is discovered. These include:

  • Deteriorating Structural Elements – Supports and subflooring can become damaged by direct exposure to flooding or the elevated moisture beneath the house.
  • Microbial Growth – Increased moisture and dampness throughout this area can facilitate mold growth, which can eventually affect the main floor of the home.
  • Bacterial or Viral Pathogens – With natural flooding, there is a high probability that the standing water in your crawl space has some form of bacteria or contaminant. From sewage to decaying organisms, many dangerous substances and solids can be brought into your crawlspace during a flood.

What contaminants should be of concern after flooding?

SERVPRO technicians are trained to treat floodwaters the same as bio-hazards such as sewage water. The reason being that there is no way to know what has found its way into the water. For the technicians that must enter the crawlspace to set up extraction equipment and drying tools, we ensure that each of these professionals wear the appropriate personal protective equipment. This gear includes Tyvek full-body suits, respirators, gloves, and closed shoes. This head-to-toe protection protects our technicians from contaminants such as:

  • Bacteria
  • Debris
  • Mud
  • Decaying Materials
  • Oil
  • Chemical Substances

How does SERPVRO remove the water and moisture from a crawlspace?

Confined spaces can be potentially problematic for extraction and drying, especially when it comes to setting up the equipment in the appropriate areas. The right choices can ensure that standing water is promptly removed and structural drying can begin. With some of the pumps and extractors having a limited discharge and intake hose available, only specific extractors and drying tools can be efficient and effective in flood loss events damaging a crawlspace. These include:

  • Submersible Pumps – Sump pumps can vary in their power supply, sizes, and strength. While one of the most common extractors used by our SERVPRO team is the electric submersible pump, these are often ineffective in standing water that has solids and debris floating in it. In these cases, gas-powered trash pumps can move this water out of the damaged areas.
  • Wet Vacuums – For standing water that is only a few inches deep, wet vacuums can often complete the removal process. These are versatile machines that are highly portable, making extraction of the entire crawlspace fast and efficient.
  • Air Movers – Centrifugal and axial air movers both can play a vital role in the evaporative drying of structural elements and the open-air beneath your house. Before permanent long-term solutions can get installed, thorough drying must take place.


Are There Long-Term Solutions to Prevent Flood Damage?

Preventing flooding in the future is not as complicated as it sounds. With crawlspace encapsulation, SERVPRO can take thick plastic sheeting called a vapor barrier and coat every exposed surface in the crawlspace to keep out floodwaters. The installation of drainage and a permanent sump pump can also help to divert water from pooling in your crawlspace if you live in a flood-prone area.

If you find yourself facing flooding in your crawlspace, call SERVPRO of North Huntsville at (256) 534-1177. Our team will work quickly to protect your home, its contents, and its occupants.

Does my Floor Have Water Damage?

9/22/2020 (Permalink)

Discoloration and swelling from water damage. Discoloration and swelling from water damage.

When a water damage occurs, one of the first materials to be affected is your flooring. SERVPRO North Huntsville follows IICRC water damage remediation standards to determine whether a flooring material is or is not salvageable. Each material has a different set of signs for water damage, and it is beneficial for a homeowner to be able to identify early signs of water damage so that our technicians can address the problem immediately.

  • Carpet: Discoloration, odor, mold, or mildew
  • Tile: Possible discoloration, empty or hollow sound when tapped on
  • Hardwood: Buckling, dark spots or discoloration, bulging, or cupping
  • Laminate: Swelling around the edges, warping, discoloration, mold or mildew smell
  • Linoleum: Discoloration

If you suspect that your flooring is showing early signs of water damage, call SERVPRO North Huntsville at (256) 534-1177 as soon as possible!

It's not a fan, it's an air mover!

6/25/2020 (Permalink)

Air Movers Multiple air movers loaded and ready for expediting the drying process at a water loss.

If water has made its way into your home, whether in Hazel Green, Harvest or Huntsville, SERVPRO of North Huntsville is here to help.

Our team of Restoration Technicians are trained using IICRC standards to make it “Like it never even happened,” using specialized techniques and industrial equipment designed to mitigate damage and prepare the property for reconstruction. Our warehouses and trucks are stocked with equipment that will extract standing water and then, based on environmental conditions, dry the property to prepare it for reconstruction. The most common equipment you’ll see installed are industrial dehumidifiers, air scrubbers, and air movers.

Air movers? Most people think they are just fancy fans. An air mover is much more than a fan, it’s an essential tool for mitigating water damage. This devise creates high-velocity airflow, allowing an environment to dry as quickly and efficiently as possible. Combined with dehumidifiers, it’s a powerful combination that restores the environment to original conditions and is a necessary tool for water restoration.

Advantages of air movers include:

  • Energy Efficient: Air movers use minimal power for maximum air flow.
  • High velocity: Air movers work great for ventilation and cooling.
  • Speeds drying time: Air movers help floors, carpets and wall cavities dry faster.

When the drying process time is reduced so are the chances of a second loss or additional damage, which can include microbial growth.

No fancy fan here, but an essential tool that can save you thousands.

How To Prevent Broken Pipes While on Vacation

6/24/2020 (Permalink)

Home flooded Flooded home

Vacation is supposed to be a time of relaxation, not one that has you receiving a call to head home to Huntsville, AL. and plan for a water pipe repair job. If you want to relax while you're spending a week away with family, you can take steps to prevent a broken pipe from occurring while you're away from home. Simply have a professional perform a full inspection before you leave.

Check All the Pipes

The first thing your inspector should do is check your pipes, windows, and water heater for leaks. He or she will look in several places:

  • Under the bathroom sink and tub
  • Behind the toilet
  • Under the kitchen sink
  • Around all the windowsills
  • Behind and around your water heater

If leaks are found, your inspector will either reseal them immediately or recommend someone to perform more extensive repairs.

Examine the Sump Pump

If your sump pump hasn't been inspected in a while, you'll also need to have someone examine it. A professional can ensure there is no chance of it causing your property to become flooded by examining its overall condition, clearing it of debris, and detecting and repairing issues that create strange sounds. The examiner can also install a battery backup in case of a power outage while you're on vacation.

Have Someone Check on Your Home

Finally, while you're away, it is important to have someone keep an eye on your house. Provide a trusted family member, friend, or neighbor with the keys to your home so he or she can check on things. This is especially important during cold weather that could cause pipes to freeze and burst. Your house sitter should also have directions to follow in case you do need water pipe repair.

A broken pipe at home can lead to a less-than-exciting vacation. By preparing your home before leaving, you help to ensure your time away isn't interrupted by an unexpected problem.

If you experience a water damage in your home call SERVPRO of North Huntsville at 256-534-1177.

Huntsville 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

1/16/2019 (Permalink)

Flooded Home Residential Water Damage

SERVPRO of North Huntsville is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help Call Today!!

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of North Huntsville has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

  • Your name and contact information
  • Your insurance information (if applicable)
  • The street address of the water-damaged home or business
  • When did the flooding or water damage occur?
  • What caused the water damage (if known)?
  • Is there electricity available (on-site)?
  • How many rooms are affected?
  • What types of flooring are affected?
  • Is your home on a concrete slab or a crawlspace

About SERVPRO of North Huntsville

SERVPRO of North Huntsville specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Faster to your Huntsville Water Damage Event

1/16/2019 (Permalink)

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. North Huntsville provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays.

Faster To Any Size Disaster

Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more.  SERVPRO of North Huntsville arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7!

Water Damage Timeline

Within Minutes

  • Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
  • Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
  • Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
  • Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.

Hours 1 - 24:

  • Drywall begins to swell and break down.
  • Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
  • Furniture begins to swell and crack.
  • Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
  • A musty odor appears.

48 Hours to 1 Week:

  • Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
  • Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
  • Metal begins to rust and corrode.
  • Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
  • Paint begins to blister.
  • Wood flooring swells and warps.
  • Serious biohazard contamination is possible.

More Than 1 Week:

  • Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
  • Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.

About SERVPRO of North Huntsville

SERVPRO of North Huntsville specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Huntsville Residents: We Specialize in Flooded Basement Cleanup and Restoration!

1/16/2019 (Permalink)

Basement flooded from excessive rain. Basement flooded from heavy rain.

A basement can flood at any time, although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall. Basements are inherently prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of a building and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level. There are a number of reasons why your Huntsville basement could flood, including: 

  • A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe
  • Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home
  • Storm sewer backup
  • Sanitary sewer backup
  • Foundation drainage failure
  • Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure
  • And many more

Have Questions about Basement Flooding?

If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can jeopardize your health and safety, and cause severe damage to your home’s structure. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.

The bottom line: a flooded basement can jeopardize your health, safety, and your home’s integrity. It’s worth making a call to SERVPRO of North Huntsville and let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. We have earned the trust of hundreds of homeowners, business owners, and property professionals.

We are Flooded Basement Specialists:

  • We are Available 24 hours/7 days per week
  • We’re a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies
  • We Bill The Insurance Directly – One Less Thing For You To Worry About
  • Our Technicians are Highly-Trained  in Water Restoration Techniques
  • We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards
  • Advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment

Basement Flooded? Call SERVPRO of North Huntsville Today – We’re Ready To Help!

Prepare your North Huntsville Home for Winter Weather

1/15/2019 (Permalink)

It's never too early to start preparing your home or business for severe winter weather! That one time you think you'll be ok might be the one time a pipe burst. Call us if something happens! We are 24/7!

Prepare NOW

  • Know your area’s risk for winter storms. Extreme winter weather can leave communities without utilities or other services for long periods of time.
  • Prepare your home to keep out the cold with insulation, caulking, and weather stripping. Learn how to keep pipes from freezing. Install and test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors with battery backups.
  • Pay attention to weather reports and warnings of freezing weather and winter storms. Sign up for your community’s warning system. The Emergency Alert System (EAS) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio also provide emergency alerts.
  • Gather supplies in case you need to stay home for several days without power. Keep in mind each person’s specific needs, including medication. Do not forget the needs of pets. Have extra batteries for radios and flashlights.
  • Create an emergency supply kit for your car. Include jumper cables, sand, a flashlight, warm clothes, blankets, bottled water, and non-perishable snacks. Keep the gas tank full.
  • Learn the signs of, and basic treatments for, frostbite and hypothermia.

Survive DURING

  • Stay off roads if at all possible. If trapped in your car, then stay inside.
  • Limit your time outside. If you need to go outside, then wear layers of warm clothing. Watch for signs of frostbite and hypothermia.
  • Avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Only use generators and grills outdoors and away from windows. Never heat your home with a gas stovetop or oven.
  • Reduce the risk of a heart attack. Avoid overexertion when shoveling snow.
  • Watch for signs of frostbite and hypothermia and begin treatment right away.
  • Check on neighbors. Older adults and young children are more at risk in extreme cold.

https://www.ready.gov/winter-weather

Emergency Tips Before Help Arrives

12/29/2017 (Permalink)

Water Damage to Ceiling Tile Keep out of areas where water damage may affect the ceiling, as conditions can quickly become hazardous.

Here are some Emergency Tips to perform before SERVPRO of North Huntsville arrives on the scene.  When in doubt before you turn the claim into the insurance company, have SERVPRO of North Huntsville come and evaluate the loss.  SERVPRO has the tools to determine where the water has migrated to and the knowledge to show you the extent of the damage. Then our team can determine the best course of action to take in order to properly take care of the water damage

WATER DAMAGE- Emergency Tips

  • Shut off the water source , if possible.
  • Remove excess water by mopping or extracting with a Wet Vacuum Unit
  • Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying.
  • Place aluminum foil or wood blocks under the furniture legs.
  • Remove Oriental or other colored rugs from the wet area.
  • Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet.
  • Keep out of areas where ceilings are sagging from retained water.
  • Move any books, magazines, papers, boxes out of the wet area.
  • Avoid direct contact with floodwater, as it may be contaminated with harmful substances and bacteria.

To speak to a professional about our remediation process, call us today at (256) 534-117.

What to do in Flooding Events

12/21/2017 (Permalink)

Damage from flooding Commercial building water damaged from flooding

Heavy rains can often lead to flooding conditions in North Alabama. These tips will help reduce the flooding that may happen to your property. 

Watch for Pooling Water 

Look for places around your property where water pools, and channel it away from buildings. Make sure gutters and downspouts are clear of debris and they are directing water as intended.

Maintain Sump Pump 

If you have a sump pump, check to be sure it is operational before water starts rising. Consider a back-up generator to ensure your pump works when you need it most. Contact your insurance agent to add coverage in case your sump pump fails. 

Raise Storage Goods 

Use shelving and/or pallets to keep storage items off the floor to reduce the impact of small floods. In many situations, raising boxes just a few inches will be enough to keep storage goods above the water line. 

Cut Power if Necessary 

As rising water approaches the level of electrical outlets, you risk having a live current flow through all the water. Cut the power if you can safely do so without standing in water. Otherwise, evacuate and contact an electrician to cut the power before you go back in for recovery.

Keep Storm Drains Clear

If you see water pooling around a storm drain, the drain may be clogged with debris. Clearing the debris will help keep the water flowing away from your neighborhood.

Be Aware on the Road 

Be careful when driving during heavy rains, especially when you hear flash flood warnings. Never drive into fully submerged roadway. “Don’t drown turn around!”  The water surface will be at the same level as the pavement you can see. This view can deceive you into thinking the water is shallow because you cannot see how the road dips under the surface. 

Act Fast 

When a flood happens, you need to act fast to dry out any wet items, particularly structural materials like walls and flooring. Call SERVPRO® of North Huntsville 256-534-1177 to handle your water damage needs and mitigate any mold growth. Our franchise professionals have the training and experience to make flood damage “Like it never even happened.” 

Please refer to our Water Damage Tips—Until Help Arrives Guide and follow these tips to protect yourself and your property.

Huntsville Don't Let Your Water Pipes Freeze This Winter

12/7/2017 (Permalink)

As Huntsville temperatures drop, the likelihood of pipes freezing and resulting water damage increases

Don't Let Your Water Pipes Freeze This Winter

Everyone has had it happen. It's a cold day. You switch on the tap, and there's no water. Frozen pipes are frustrating. Then, you have to worry about how quickly they'll thaw out and what will happen when they do. As Huntsville temperatures drop, the likelihood of pipes freezing and water damage increases. It could happen at your home or your business, and it will probably occur at the most inconvenient time. Fortunately, there are measures that you can practice to protect your pipes from freezing weather.

Insulating water pipes is an excellent long-term solution to prevent water damage. Pipe blankets should be installed on hot and cold water lines. They block condensation and keep pipes from freezing. Pipe wraps also prevent heat loss, so they can save energy and help you reduce water heating costs, during those cold spells in Huntsville.

Weatherizing your home is another way to save energy and protect your pipes from water damage. Insulate crawlspaces. Install vapor barriers, and caulk small cracks and gaps where cold air enters. Pay extra attention to areas where pipes and utility lines pass through the foundation. Use a faucet cover which covers and safeguards outdoor faucets from freezing.


Good habits will also keep your pipes safe on the coldest nights. Listen to local weather reports for the Huntsville area. If temperatures are anticipated to drop below freezing, prepare your plumbing for the cold weather.

Opening your faucets during cold weather is one of the most effective and dependable ways to prevent frozen pipes and water damage. Ordinarily, you'll have the best results if you turn on faucets that are furthest away from the water main. You might also want to turn on faucets in cold areas that are prone to freezing in your Madison County neighborhood.

Pipes that pass through crawlspaces, cupboards and unheated areas are especially vulnerable. You can buffer temperatures by opening cupboards under sinks in kitchens and bathrooms. On extremely cold nights, you can protect your plumbing by covering crawlspace vents and reopening them the next day.

If your pipes do solidify, it's important to follow the correct thawing procedure. Always open the tap before warming the area. Never pour hot water over pipes or use direct heat sources. Burst pipes are caused when steam builds up as the blockage thaws. Then, you have to deal another problem and call a professional to repair the pipe and clean up the mess from water damage. If a pipe does burst this winter, our SERVPRO of North Huntsville water damage specialists can help provide fire and water damage restoration services. 

. We are available 24 hours/7 days a week and are ready to restore damage to your home or commercial structure caused by:

  • Water Damage
  • Fire Damage
  • Disaster, storm and flood damage
  • Mold Damage

Call SERVPRO of North Huntsville @ (256) 534-1177 for all your fire and water damage restoration services.

Washing Machine Hoses

11/30/2017 (Permalink)

Old washing machine hose

About 4 years ago you bought a new washer and dryer. The new machines were delivered and set up. For the past 4 years everything has been working fine. Your neighbor had a SERVPRO truck at her house a few days ago. When you see your neighbor the next time she tells you a washing machine hose burst and her basement was flooded. 

This happens more often than you might think.  Rubber washing machine hoses are in danger of failing after they are 5 years old. The chances of a failure go up with each year after 5 years is reached. Rather than waiting for an old hose to burst, here are a few proactive steps that can be taken to lessen the chances of coming home to a flooded basement.

Replace your rubber hoses regularly. An accepted rule of thumb is to replace rubber washer hoses every 5 years. To make this replacement time easy to remember replace your hoses every leap year.

Stainless steel braided hoses are more durable and longer lasting than rubber hoses. Stainless hoses will be a little more costly than rubber, but the piece of mind will be well worth the investment.

Emergency shutoff kits can be a good choice. These systems are designed to detect leaks and shut the water off before the leak becomes a flood. Just like the stainless hoses, a few extra dollars is well worth the piece of mind.

If a hose does burst and the basement or laundry room floods SERVPRO of North Huntsville is ready to help. We have the equipment to get the water out, dry the floor and walls and get your house back in order. Remember with SERVPRO we make it, "Like it never even happened."

What to do when you have a "Clean Water Damage"

3/11/2016 (Permalink)

What to do/ What Not to do

What to Do:

  • Shut off the source of water if possible, or contact a qualified plumbing technician to stop the water source.
  • Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building when access to the power distribution panel is safe from electrical shock.
  • Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting.
  • Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removing lamps and tabletop items. 
  • Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying.
  • Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpet.
  • Remove to a safe, dry place any paintings, art objects, computers, documents, and other materials that are valuable or sensitive to moisture.
  • Pin up upholstered furniture skirting to keep off damp floors.
  • Hang draperies with coated hangers to avoid contact with carpeting or floors. 
  • Hang furs and leather goods to dry separately at room temperature.

What Not To Do:

  • Do not enter rooms with standing water where electrical shock hazards may exist.
  • Do not enter effected areas if electrical outlets, switches, circuit breakers, or electrical equipment are exposed to water. Always avoid electrical shock hazards.
  • Do not leave books, newspapers, magazines, or other colored items that may cause staining on wet carpet or floors.
  • Do not use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water, possibly causing electrical shock or damaging the vacuum cleaner.
  • Do not use TV's or other appliances while standing on wet carpets or floors, especially not on wet concrete floors.
  • Do not turn on ceiling fixture if ceiling is wet or enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water.