Water Damage Emergency Tips

What you can do until help arrives

Water Tips  |  Fire Tips   |  Biohazard Tips   |  Mold Tips

When water damage occurs SERVPRO of San Mateo is aware of the stress it can cause. After you have contacted our offices, we understand you might want to know what you can do in the meantime or what are the next steps. The first thing we strongly recommend is making sure all the water is turned off to prevent any further water from continuing to leak and causing any secondary damages. If the area has been under water for more than 24 hours, wear a surgical mask to avoid inhaling mold spores, or avoid the area until the professionals arrive.

Always remember your safety comes first. If you are still moving around your home you will need to watch every step, because the risk of slips and falls is high as well as weakening ceilings collapsing. When it comes to appliances, gas lines and electrical equipment parts of the property we urge you to leave them off until further notice.

If you clean up water, try pushing it out if there is a nearby door or using a mop/towels you can place them down to absorb the water. Be super careful when picking up any materials we cannot stress this enough. Materials are heavier when they are wet if possible place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet floor to avoid materials to soak up the water. After any water damage situation, the primary focus is your safety! Don’t hurt yourself by overdoing it.

Have A  Water Damage Emergency? Call (650) 931-6060

What To Do After Flooding

  • Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.
  • Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and tabletop items.
  • Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions.
  • Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
  • Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in summer.
  • Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting.
  • Remove art objects to a safe, dry place.
  • Gather loose items from floors.

What NOT To Do After Flooding

  • Don't leave wet fabrics in place. Hang furs and leather goods.
  • Don't leave books, magazines or other colored items on wet carpet or floors.
  • Don't use your household vacuum to remove water.
  • Don't use television or other household appliances.
  • Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging.