What Does a Day-One Response Plan Look Like After a Major Loss?

Your first priority is keeping everyone safe. If water is near electrical outlets or appliances, turn off the power at the main breaker if you can do so without standing in water. If the ceiling is sagging or bulging, stay out from under it and move family members to a dry area.

Watch for slippery floors and sharp debris. If you smell gas or hear a hissing sound, leave the home and call the utility company from outside. See a doctor if you feel unwell after exposure to floodwater, which can carry contaminants.

• Shut off the main water valve if a pipe burst
• Avoid rooms with standing water near electrical panels
• Move pets and children to a safe, dry space
• Wear rubber boots and gloves when walking through water
• Open windows for ventilation if it is safe to do so

Move furniture, rugs, and electronics to a dry area if you can lift them safely. Use aluminum foil or plastic wrap under furniture legs to keep them from staining wet carpets. Hang wet curtains and clothing to dry, but do not leave them on the floor.

Do not throw away damaged items yet. Your insurance company may need to see them for a claim. Take photos of everything, including the water source, the affected rooms, and the condition of each item. This record helps you and your insurer understand the scope of the loss.

Begin drying the affected areas as soon as it is safe. Use towels to soak up standing water, and set up fans to circulate air. Remove wet carpets and padding if they are soaked, as they can hold moisture and lead to mold growth. Open drawers and cabinets to let air flow.

The pros handle the heavy work like extracting water from walls and flooring, but your early efforts reduce the risk of mold. For extensive damage, a water damage inspection can assess what is salvageable. The cost depends on the extent of the damage and the materials involved.