To Do: Immediate Action

• Locate your water main. Once you’ve located your water main, you should shut off the water to prevent any further water damage from occurring
• Turn off all power to affected areas of the home or building. DO NOT operate your television or any other electrical appliances while there is still standing water on carpets or floors
• Contact Americon as soon as possible. Wet carpeting, furniture, bedding, and any other household items that hold moisture or water for more than 24 to 48 hours can develop mold
• Turn your air conditioning on to help with the drying in the summer, or open windows
• It’s important to try and get rid of as much standing water as possible. You can get rid of standing water by using a mop, blotting or using clean towels. Please don’t use a vacuum cleaner

Remember

If the fire department turns off your utilities (water, electricity, and gas) before they leave, it means they are unsafe to use. Do not try to turn them back on by yourself as this could be very dangerous and cause further damage to your home. Safety is the #1 priority!

Insurance Purposes

• Once you’re allowed back on the premises, check your insurance policy and get in touch with your agent for information on how to proceed with your claim
• If possible, take photographs of damaged items and property for your insurance claim

Perishables

• Throw away any food or other perishables that have come in contact with flood water.
• If the electricity is shut off for an extended period, all items from refrigerators or freezers should be transferred into a working refrigerator or freezer.

Household Items

• Transport wet clothing and fabrics to a dry area. Remove any draperies that are in contact with wet floors or wet carpeting.
• Move lighter pieces of furniture away from wet floors or carpeting. Place plastic wrap, plastic bags, or wood blocks covered in aluminum foil between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
• Wipe water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and tabletop items.
• Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying (check for possible bleeding).
• Open any drawers or cabinet doors that are affected by the water damage for complete drying.

Steps To Take To Prepare Your Property during a Flood Watch

A flood watch means “Be Aware” conditions are right for flooding to occur in your area. The following information was found on www.ready.gov/floods

• Turn on your TV/radio. You will receive the latest weather updates and emergency instructions.
• Know where to go. You may need to reach higher ground quickly and on foot.
• Build or restock your emergency preparedness kit. Include a flashlight, batteries, cash, and first aid supplies.

Prepare Your Home

• Bring in outdoor furniture and move essential indoor items to the highest possible floor. This will help protect them from flood damage.
• Disconnect electrical appliances, but don’t touch electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water. You could be electrocuted!
• If instructed, turn off your gas and electricity at the main switch or valve. This helps prevent fires and explosions.

Steps To Take To Prepare Your Property During a Flood Warning

A flood warning means “Take Action Immediately” Flooding is either happening or will happen shortly. The following information was found on www.ready.gov/floods

• Immediately move to higher ground or stay on high ground.
• Evacuate if directed.
• Avoid walking or driving through flood waters. Turn around, Don’t Drown! Just 6 inches of moving water can knock you down, and two feet of water can sweep your vehicle away.

Contact Professionals

Is your residential, commercial, or industrial property experiencing water damage in the Cleveland and Northeast Ohio area? Americon Restoration is here to help! Contact us through our website or call us today at (216) 221-5200!