Emergency Service - What To Do In The Event of a Flood

What would you do if you were standing in a foot of water right now?  Would you know what to do... who to call... what to tell them when help is on the line?  Storm emergencies can be very scary.... but being prepared and versed on what to do can make a world of difference!  Servpro of Point Loma can help!

Here's a list of information you'll want to provide when you're on the phone requesting help:

• What is the date and time that the emergency took place?
• What is the source of water (leaking roof, pipe break, sewage overflow, etc.)?  If the water is sewer water, the emergency crews will need to bring personal protection equipment with them... if it's a pipe break, they may not need it.  It's always better to give them a heads up.
• Is there structural damage?  Is electricity on?
• Is there standing water?  Is so, how deep?  1 foot of standing water requires different equipment than 2 inches...
• What areas are affected?
• Have you stopped the source of the water?
• Provide 2 phone numbers (business, home, cell, etc).  You never know when your cell phone will lose reception or when phone lines will go down due to a storm!

If you want to help out, you can start working on the following list of items until help arrives.  If you do, there's a big chance that you'll lessen the severity of the damage:

• Shut off the water source if possible
• Remove excess water by mopping and blotting water.  Do not use a regular vacuum to suck up the water!
• Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks under furniture legs
• Hang furs and leather goods separately at room temperature
• *** DO NOT TURN ON CEILING FIXTURES (LIGHTS, CEILING FANS, ETC) IF THE CEILING IS WET!!! *** 
• Stay away from ceilings that are sagging or bulging... they're likely retaining water
• Do not leave books, magazines, or other colored items on wet carpeting.  The dyes in the magazine may stain the carpet.

Remember, fast responses from your mitigation professionals can really keep the costs down!!  If you need help, please call us.  We're here to help 24/7 - even if it's just to answer questions on what to do.  You can reach us via phone at 619-275-2802 or via email at servpro9729@gmail.com.

*** Servpro of Point Loma is a Ready San Diego Business Alliance Member. Feel free to contact us anytime for safety tips! ***