The short answer
Secure Your Home's Electrical System
Before entering any standing water, you must shut off your home's electricity. Water conducts electricity, creating a severe electrocution hazard. Locate your main electrical panel and turn the main breaker switch to the off position. Do not flip individual breakers; cut all power to be safe. If the panel is in a flooded area or you are unsure, wait for an electrician.
If you cannot safely reach the breaker panel, contact an electrician for help. Never assume power is out just because lights are off. Downed power lines outside also pose a danger; stay far away from them and report them to your utility company. Electrical safety is the most critical initial step to prevent injury.
Stop the Water Source If Possible
If the flood is from a broken pipe or appliance, find the main water shutoff valve and turn it off. This stops more water from entering your home. In Oklahoma City, knowing your valve's location before a flood happens is wise. If the flood is from stormwater or a river, you likely cannot stop the source, so focus on safety and documentation.
For internal leaks, like from a water heater or washing machine, there may be a dedicated shutoff valve on the supply line. Turn that valve clockwise to close it. If you cannot locate or operate the shutoff, your next step is to call a plumber for emergency service. Stopping the flow limits the total damage.
- Locate your main water shutoff valve before a disaster.
- Turn the valve clockwise until it stops to shut off water.
- For appliance leaks, find the smaller valve on its supply line.
- If valves are stuck, do not force them; call a plumber.
- Keep a wrench near the main valve if it requires one.
- Mark the valve location clearly for all household members.
Document the Damage for Your Insurer
Once people are safe and utilities are off, document the scene. Use your phone to take clear photos and videos of all damage, including water levels, damaged belongings, and the source. Do this before removing any water or starting cleanup. This visual evidence is crucial for filing an insurance claim. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.
Create a detailed list of damaged items, noting brands, models, and approximate age. Do not throw anything away until an insurance adjuster has seen it, unless it is a biohazard. Keep all receipts for expenses related to the flood, like hotel stays or supplies. Contact your insurance company to start the claims process as soon as possible.
Begin Removing Water and Ventilating
If safe, start removing standing water. Use a wet-dry vacuum, pumps, or mops and buckets. The longer water sits, the more it soaks into materials and promotes mold growth. Open windows and doors to increase airflow, if outdoor humidity is lower. Use fans to circulate air, but do not use standard household fans if mold is already visible.
Focus on removing water from floors first. Pull up saturated rugs and move furniture to a dry area, if possible. Be cautious of heavy waterlogged items; they can be a strain injury risk. This initial water removal is a temporary measure to mitigate damage before comprehensive drying begins.
Call Local Water Damage Pros for Assessment
After these immediate steps, contact local water damage pros for a thorough inspection and drying. They have industrial-grade extractors, air movers, and dehumidifiers to dry your home properly. Hidden moisture in walls and subfloors can cause structural rot and mold if not addressed. A professional assessment identifies all affected areas that you might miss.
The pros use moisture meters and thermal imaging to map the full extent of the damage. They can also advise on necessary repairs and coordinate with other trades, like plumbers or electricians. This service is key to restoring your home to a safe, dry condition and preventing long-term problems.
- Pros perform a detailed inspection with moisture detection tools.
- They use powerful truck-mounted extractors to remove deep water.
- Industrial dehumidifiers pull moisture from the air and building materials.
- Air movers create airflow to accelerate drying in wall cavities.
- They monitor the drying process daily to ensure progress.
- They can advise on necessary repairs and potential mold prevention.
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Water keeps spreading into floors and walls, so it is worth acting early. Calls are answered 24/7.
Call Now (405) 565-9833Frequently asked questions
Should I enter a flooded basement right away?
No, do not enter a flooded basement immediately. The water may be electrically charged if power is on. Wait until you have confirmed the main electrical power to the house is completely shut off at the breaker panel before entering any flooded space.
How long do I have before mold starts to grow?
Mold can begin to grow within 24 to 48 hours in damp conditions. This is why rapid water removal and drying are critical. If materials stay wet, mold spores present in all homes will multiply, leading to potential health issues and more costly remediation.
What if sewage is in the floodwater?
If the floodwater contains sewage, it is a serious health hazard. Avoid all contact and do not attempt cleanup yourself. This is considered black water and requires specialized biohazard cleanup procedures. You need to call the pros who handle contaminated water situations.