Commercial Do’s & Don’ts for Water Damage

Do:

• As quickly as possible, eliminate the source of the water.
• To minimize damage, discourage employees from walking on wet carpet any more than necessary.
• If safe to do so, turn off circuit breakers supplying electricity to wet areas and remove any small electrical devices from those areas.
• Remove small furnishings from carpet, or place aluminum foil under legs, to help prevent rust or furniture stains which may become permanent.
• Hang draperies and pin up furniture skirts to avoid contact with wet floors, which helps to prevent watermarks.
• Remove breakables, moisture-sensitive and high-value items, books, paper goods, waste bins, potted plants, and any other items that may stain floor coverings.
• Remember to check under desks for small items and in lobbies, lounges, or waiting areas.
• Plan for restoration crews to move furniture into unaffected dry areas.
• Make sure you and your employees practice good personal hygiene after handling affected items.
• To avoid the chance of electrical shock, do not use vacuums or shop vacs to remove the water.
• If sewage related, prevent handling of any contaminated items and do not turn on fans, heating, or air conditioning units as it may spread the contamination.
• Call HammondKnoll to finish it up!

Don’t:

• Do not go near contaminated (sewer) water.
• Do not use computers and outlets while in wet areas.
• Do not enter rooms with standing water if the electricity is still on.
• Do not wait to call for professional help. Damage from the water and bacteria growth can begin within hours.

HammondKnoll Water restoration & clean up is available 24 / 7 to handle your water emergency.
Call 253-472-9686 or 1-800-499-9686 day or night.