Water: The Disaster Guide

After the hurricanes that have been sweeping the Northeast, water damage has been in the forefront of the news and family preparations.

The truth is, water damage can threaten with a disaster as large as a hurricane or as small as a broken pipe or stopped up sink. No home is insusceptible, but at PuroClean of Cranford, we want to make sure you have the tools to clean as soon as possible and prevent any additional damage.

What To Do: 

• Call PuroClean Immediately: Our emergency technicians have the training and skills to solve your water problems quickly and effectively.
• Turn Off Water: Stop additional damage and then call a plumber for repairs.
• Remove Excess Water: Using a mop, dry as much as possible. If weather is cool, open windows; if hot, make sure it is safe, then turn on air conditioning.
• Prop Up Upholstery: Remove and prop loose cushions for even drying.
• Remove Area Rugs: Remove any portable rugs to dry, and gather any items that may be in contact with wet flooring.
• Open Storage Containers: Open suitcases and boxes; if possible, place them in sunlight to dry.
• Protect Valuables: Evacuate all paintings and artwork to safe, dry storage.
• Dry Clothing: As soon as possible, dry all garments; hang fur and leather at room temperature.
• Protect Furniture: Use aluminum foil or plastic beneath the legs of furniture sitting on wet carpeting. Open -- but do not force -- the doors to drawers and cabinets to dry their interiors. PuroClean provides complimentary furniture blocks and pads to place under furniture legs.

What Not To Do:

• Do Not Use a Vacuum Cleaner: Instead of removing water, your regular household vacuum can break or cause electric shock.
• Do Not Use Electrical Appliances: While standing on wet carpets, floors -- concrete or tile -- do not turn on televisions, radios, computers, ceiling fans, or anything else with an on off switch.
• Do Not Touch Outlets or Plugs: Water can permeate electrical sockets, creating dangerous currents when plugging or unplugging appliances.