Water Damage & Flooded Basement Restoration Services

Step 1: Safety First!

By the RestorationSOS Educational Staff

Dangers are not over even after the water is eliminated. Do not endanger yourself or your family after a water damage event. Keep children and pets away. Try to protect yourself and your family from stress, fatigue, and water-related health hazards.

The following precautions will help neutralize the common water-related hazards, insuring a safe recovery process:

1. Determine Structural Stability

Determine whether your property is structurally safe to enter. Before entering your home or business, take a look at the ceiling and supporting walls. Do not enter if the ceiling is sagging due to water buildup or if walls have collapsed.

If you are not certain the building is safe or if you have any question regarding personal safety, stay out and have a professional make an assessment.

If the building is determined safe, walk in carefully and inspect indoor stability. Do not enter any deep standing water.

If your property is determined unsafe or you cannot live in your home while repairs are being made, make arrangements for temporary alternate lodging. Keep records of all additional expenses incurred as a result. Most insurance policies will cover additional living expenses.

2. Shut Off the Power Supply

Assume all power lines are active and functioning. Turn off the power to your home by disabling the main circuit breaker panel even if the neighborhood power grid is down. The panel is usually installed in the garage, utility room, basement, or outdoors on the side of the home.

Do not remove excess water using regular household vacuums. Avoid using any electrical appliances especially while standing on wet carpets or floors.

If you choose to use a generator for temporary electricity supply, do not run it in an enclosed area. The generator's engine releases carbon monoxide that is extremely hazardous to health. Be sure to let the engine cool off before refueling and avoid using extension cords.

3. Turn Off the Water Supply

Turn off the main water supply. Locate the main valve and turn it clockwise to turn it off. You may need to use pliers or an adjustable wrench. The main water valve is usually located in the basement, near the water meter, or outside of the building. If you can not complete this task yourself, contact a plumber immediately.

Do not use piped water until you are sure it is safe. Use bottled water or boiled water for washing, drinking, and cooking.

4. Turn Off the Gas Supply

Check for the odor of natural gas and shut off the gas supply lines. The main gas valve is usually located on the gas supply pipe, near the meter.

5. Beware of Animals

Watch out for stray animals, reptiles, and rodents that might have taken shelter in your property after being disturbed by the water. Be wary of approaching any animal.

Use a stick to poke through debris before removing it to make sure no animals are inhabiting the debris. Contact your local animal control officer for assistance if needed.

6. Use Protective Gear

In many cases of water damage events, water is contaminated with sewage, mud, and other debris, presenting health hazards. Protect yourself during clean up using protective gear such as:

• Disposable plastic gloves
• Respirator with a particulate filter, N-95 respirator, or half-face respirator with a HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filter
• Goggles or protective eyewear
• Disposable full body clothing, coveralls, or a lab coat
• Head gear
• Rubber boots or foot coverings

Be sure to use disinfectants to wash hands, especially before eating.

Recommended Reading:
Dealing with Water Damage - Step 2: Secure Your Property
Dealing with Water Damage - Step 3: Damage Assessment
Dealing with Water Damage - Step 4: Structural Stabilization Procedures
Dealing with Water Damage - Step 5: Dry Out