Within hours after disaster strikes, water damage and bacteria growth can begin. Increase your chances of a complete recovery by calling ServiceMaster of Utica in Utica, New York as soon as possible.

To help ensure a successful restoration, there are a few things you can do while you wait.

What to do:

• Call ServiceMaster of Utica immediately.
• Remove as much water as possible yourself, by mopping and blotting.
• Remove wet area rugs or removable floor coverings. Do not attempt to remove wall-to-wall carpeting yourself.
• Be sure no draperies are touching the floor. Loop over curtain rod using a coat hangar or whatever is available.
• Wipe off furniture, prop up furniture cushions and place aluminum foil under furniture legs.
• Move photos, paintings, etc. to a safe, dry location if possible.
• Do not remove books from shelves. But, be sure they are packed tightly together to prevent warping until a restoration professional can use their specialized method of drying.
• Open drawers, closets and cabinet doors to help enhance drying.

What not to do:

• Do not enter a room with standing water in it until all electricity has been turned off.
• Do not use a regular household vacuum to remove water.
• Do not attempt to lift tacked down carpet without professional help.
• Do not use electrical appliances when carpet or flooring is still wet.
•  Do not touch or disturb any visible mold.