The short answer
Ensure Immediate Safety First
Before taking any other action, make sure you and your family are safe. Do not walk through floodwater if your electricity is still on, as it can conduct a dangerous shock. If you smell gas or see exposed wiring, leave the area immediately and call the appropriate utility company from a safe location.
Move children and pets to a dry, unaffected area of your home or a neighbor's house. Wear sturdy, waterproof boots and gloves if you must enter a wet area for a critical task like shutting off water. Avoid contact with contaminated floodwater from storms or sewage backups, as it can contain harmful bacteria.
Stop the Water at Its Source
If the flooding is from a plumbing leak inside your home, locate and turn off the main water shutoff valve. This valve is often found where the main water line enters your house, such as in a basement, crawlspace, or near the water heater. Knowing its location ahead of time saves critical minutes during an emergency.
For external flooding from heavy rain or a river overflow, you typically cannot stop the source. Your focus shifts to protecting your property from further intrusion. Use sandbags or other barriers at doorways if it is safe to do so. Knowing your main water shutoff valve location ahead of time helps during any plumbing emergency.
Protect Your Belongings and Home
Once safe and the water is stopped, move valuables and furniture to a dry area if you can do so safely. Lift drapes and curtains out of standing water, and place aluminum foil under furniture legs on wet carpet to prevent staining. Quick action here can save items from permanent damage.
Remove as much water as possible using a wet-dry vacuum, mops, or towels. Ventilate the area by opening windows and doors if weather permits, but be aware this may not be enough to prevent hidden moisture problems. The goal is to mitigate damage until the pros can begin their work.
- Unplug electronics from outlets in or near wet areas.
- Take pictures or videos of all damage for an insurance claim.
- Place important documents, like passports, in a waterproof container.
- Move area rugs off of wet flooring to prevent dye transfer.
- Punch small holes in sagging ceiling panels to drain water.
- Empty lower cabinets and remove contents to a dry space.
Call for Professional Water Damage Help
Contact local water damage pros as soon as the immediate safety steps are complete. They have the industrial equipment and training needed for thorough water extraction and structural drying. Delaying this call allows water to seep into walls and floors, which can lead to severe structural issues and mold growth within days.
The pros will assess the extent of the damage, including moisture you cannot see. They use specialized tools like moisture meters and infrared cameras to map wet areas. This detailed inspection is crucial for creating an effective drying plan to restore your home properly and prevent secondary problems.
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Call Now (405) 565-9833Frequently asked questions
Should I try to clean up the water myself?
You can remove surface water with a mop or wet vacuum to prevent immediate spread. However, professional extraction and drying are needed for water in walls, under flooring, or in insulation. Inadequate drying leads to mold and rot.
How long does it take for mold to grow after a flood?
Mold can begin to grow on wet materials within 24 to 48 hours. This is why rapid water removal and thorough drying by professionals are critical to preventing a widespread mold problem in your home.
Will my homeowner's insurance cover flood damage?
Standard policies often exclude flooding from external sources like storms or overflowing rivers. Separate flood insurance is typically required for that coverage. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Check your policy details carefully.