Do

• Ensure that a contractor has been called to eliminate the water source or make necessary repairs.
• If safe to do so, turn off electrical breakers supplying electricity to wet areas; unplug and remove any small electrical appliances/devices currently located on the wet carpet and areas.
• Remove small furniture items as possible, to prevent rust or stains and expedite restoration.
• Place protective tabs (foil) under legs of wood furniture.
• Hang draperies and pin up furniture skirts to prevent contact with wet carpet (water marks, browning, dye transfer or migration).
• Remove books, shoes, paper goods, fabrics, potted plants or other items that may stain the carpet (especially check under beds and in closets for these items).
• Remove and secure breakables, moisture sensitive or high valued items.
• Make plans for restoration crew to remove large furniture items onto dry carpet, vinyl, ceramic, wood flooring or garage/storage areas.
• Wash your hands thoroughly after handling wet items.

Don't

• Use any type of home vacuum since electrical shock may result, as well as potential damage to the equipment itself.
• Place newspaper in traffic areas since newspaper ink transfers easily.
• Walk on wet carpet any more than necessary in order to keep from spreading damage.
• Do not activate the HVAC system if it has been directly contacted by water, or might serve as a means of spreading contamination.
• Change the indoor temperature (raise or lower) unless instructed to do so by a qualified restoration technician.

In Sewage losses, do not:

• Handle directly contaminated items
• Consume foods or use personal hygiene items that were left out in contaminated areas
• Turn on fans to circulate air or use any vacuum equipment

Do not stay in the property if you:

• Have respiratory problems including allergies or asthma
• Are under age 2 or over age 60
• Have a weakened immune system due to illness, medications or recent surgery