July 11, 2023

Minimize Water Damage From Strong Storms

Sump pumps and drains are sometimes no match for power summer storms. Heavy rains can quickly overwhelm your drainage system and flood basements, homes, and businesses, causing costly water damage and a challenging situation. If you experience water damage from heavy rains, there are steps you can take to minimize additional damage and costs until a professional water mitigation company arrives. 

After experiencing water damage, you should:

  • Use fans to circulate the air and assist drying.
  • Use dehumidifiers if available.
  • Remove as much water as possible by mopping and blotting.
  • Lift draperies off carpet, loop through a coat hanger, and place the hanger on the drapery rod.
  • Prop up wet furniture cushions for even drying and place small wood blocks or aluminum foil under furniture legs.
  • Remove wet area rugs or other floor coverings, and wipe furniture dry.
  • Open furniture drawers, closet doors and luggage to enhance drying.
  • Move photos, paintings and art objects to a safe, dry location.
  • Do not remove damp books from shelves. Leave tight to prevent pages from rippling.

Important safety warnings on water damage:

  • Do not use an ordinary household vacuum to remove water.
  • Do not use electrical appliances while on wet carpet or wet floors.
  • Do not go into rooms with standing water if the electricity is still on.
  • Do not lift tacked down carpet without professional help.

And with warm temperatures and humidity, it’s important to dry or discard wet items within 48 to 72 hours to avoid harmful mold growth. Even after wet items are removed, mold may remain hidden in drywall, carpeting and HVAC systems. While it’s tempting to use bleach to control mold, bleach has been banned by the EPA for use against mold growth because it does not kill mold. The sooner a ServiceMaster By Mason expert can get to items covered in mold, the less long-term damage and costs. 
Should you need water mitigation services, mold cleanup & removal or other restoration services after strong storms, excessive humidity, faulty appliance or burst pipe, the team at ServiceMaster By Mason is ready to respond 24/7.

For additional details or to schedule assistance, contact us at 800-934-5869 in CT & RI.

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