Emergency Triage 101: Navigating Water Damage in Your Home or Business

Experiencing significant water damage in your home or business can feel overwhelming. Whether caused by a burst pipe, storm flood, or appliance malfunction, a water emergency requires quick, careful action to mitigate damage and protect your property. This guide is here to support you through those crucial first steps, with practical advice to help you make the best decisions if you’re dealing with extensive water damage.

Step 1: Identify the Source and Control It if Possible

Before diving into any cleanup, try to determine where the water is coming from. Is there an obvious leak, burst pipe, or appliance malfunction? If the source is visible and you can safely access it, attempt to control or stop the flow of water immediately. This might mean shutting off the water supply or addressing a broken fixture. If the source is a pipe or other internal system, contact a professional plumber to prevent further damage. Keep safety in mind; never attempt to stop the flow if it puts you at risk.

Step 2: Take Caution Around Standing Water

Standing water poses serious risks that extend beyond just structural damage. Before stepping into the water, consider the following precautions:

• Electrical Hazards: Standing water may have come into contact with electrical outlets, appliances, or wiring. This can cause the water to be energized, posing a severe shock risk. Before proceeding, turn off the power to affected areas if it’s safe to do so, or consult an electrician if you’re unsure.
• Contaminants: Depending on the source, the water may contain biological or chemical contaminants that can lead to infection, burns, or respiratory issues. Floodwater, for example, often contains dirt, debris, or even sewage, increasing the risk of illness or skin irritation.
• Wildlife Concerns: In some cases, water intrusion can also bring unwanted animals or pests. Floodwaters occasionally introduce small animals, like snakes or insects, into properties. Be mindful of your surroundings and use proper equipment, such as gloves and waterproof boots.

Step 3: Remove the Bulk Water

Once you’ve assessed the situation and taken safety precautions, the next step is to remove as much standing water as possible. While water mitigation companies have specialized submersible pumps and extraction tools, you can make headway using mops, buckets, or a wet-dry vacuum if you have one available. Removing bulk water is typically easier on hard surfaces, like tile or hardwood, compared to absorbent materials, such as carpet or padding, which can retain moisture longer and may need special attention.

Professional water mitigation companies often recommend moving furniture, rugs, and other items from the affected area to prevent further water absorption. Some items may need to be removed altogether if they are highly absorbent and exposed to contaminated water.

Step 4: Assess the Damage

Once the bulk water has been removed, it’s essential to identify the extent of the damage. Doing so will help determine next steps and determine if professional mitigation services are required. Here are some methods used by water mitigation professionals to assess damage accurately:

• Visual Inspection: Look for telltale signs of water damage, such as drooping or discolored paint, watermarks on walls or ceilings, and warped or bloated trim. These signs often indicate where water has traveled and which areas require further drying or potential repairs.
• Moisture Meters: Professional-grade moisture meters are tools that measure the water content in materials like drywall and wood. Using a moisture meter can reveal hidden moisture pockets that could contribute to mold growth or structural damage if left unaddressed.
• Infrared Cameras: Infrared cameras are useful for locating water that has seeped into walls, floors, or other areas where it isn’t immediately visible. This technology helps water mitigation professionals detect moisture behind walls or under floorboards without invasive probing.

Step 5: Set Up a Positive Drying Environment

Effective drying is crucial for preventing further structural damage and discouraging mold growth. Once you’ve assessed the affected areas, set up drying equipment to create a positive drying environment. Water mitigation experts typically use a combination of dehumidifiers and air movers to speed up evaporation and remove moisture from the air.

• Dehumidifiers: Dehumidifiers remove excess moisture from the air, creating a less favorable environment for mold and help expedite the drying process. They are particularly beneficial in areas where humidity levels are high.
• Air Movers: These powerful fans circulate air across wet surfaces, encouraging water to evaporate quickly. Position air movers strategically around affected areas to maximize airflow, especially around walls, flooring, and ceilings. Proper air circulation can significantly speed up the drying process, helping you return to normal faster.

Setting up drying equipment can make a difference, but keep in mind that certain areas may require special attention. For instance, drywall, carpets, and other porous materials might need to be cut away or removed if they are too waterlogged or contaminated. When in doubt, consult a water damage restoration professional to ensure all areas are fully dried and sanitized.

Final Considerations

In the immediate aftermath of water damage, quick action is essential. It can help reduce the extent of damage, lower repair costs, and shorten recovery time. Here are some additional considerations to keep in mind:

• Document the Damage: Take photos or videos of the affected areas before, during, and after cleanup. This can be valuable for insurance purposes, particularly if you need to file a claim.
• Understand Insurance Policies: Some insurance policies cover specific types of water damage, while others do not. Check with your insurance provider to understand your coverage, and communicate regularly as you proceed with any repairs or restoration efforts.
• Prioritize Safety: Flooding can lead to hidden structural issues, hazardous materials, and other risks that may not be immediately visible. If you’re unsure about a step in the mitigation process or if you encounter any health or safety risks, don’t hesitate to call a professional team for assistance.

If you’re dealing with water damage in Arkansas, don’t go through it alone. Contact Pro Service Builders today to get expert help with your water damage mitigation and restoration needs. Our experienced team is ready to respond quickly, work with your insurance company, and guide you every step of the way.