Immediate actions for water damage

Call us at 972-447-0555 so we can help you to respond quickly to get your under water area under control. From lots of Texas rain to a broken pipe, flooding can wreak havoc on your home or building and all of the belongings. Although it almost always happens when you’re least expecting it, reaction time is critical. To minimize the damage, water removal must happen quickly.

When a flooding emergency occurs, you need expert help—and you need it fast. If you are unable to contact one of the companies that provide emergency services, we can help slow down the damage.

1st Cooling does not employ certified restoration experts. However these companies rent our equipment when they run out. We will help you to minimize the water damage until you either take rent drying equipment from us or until your emergency water restoration crew arrives.

Steps to Minimize Water Damage

  • If possible, stop the water at its source. Shut off the water at the meter. Typically the main shutoff valve is located in the yard by the curb. You can use one of the special wrenches purchased at a big box hardware store or when in a pinch, try a pair of channel lock plyers. It will be difficult, but well worth your effort.
  • Turn off the electricity to the affected areas at the breaker box and remove small electrical appliances from the flooded areas if you can do so. HINT: Never stand in front of a circuit breaker when turning it on or off. They have been known to blow straight out of the box if something is not connected correctly.
  • Avoid walking on wet carpet if the water is from the sewer system. You can cross-contaminate other areas of your home/office.
  • Remove small furniture or lamps from carpeted areas or place aluminum foil under furniture legs. This helps prevent permanent rust or furniture stains.
  • Pull draperies off the floor and pin up furniture skirts to avoid getting them wet.
  • Remove any breakables, moisture-sensitive and high value items, as well as items that may stain floor coverings. Check underneath the bed and other furniture for Christmas boxes or extra sheets, shoes, or anything of value.
  • If you are able, move furniture into a dry area away from the damage.
  • Keep your hands clean by using rubber gloves if you handle water-damaged items. Wash your hands when you are finished.
  • Avoid the possibility of electric shock. DO NOT use your home vacuum to suck up the water.
  • If the damage is sewer-related, DO NOT turn on fans, heaters, or the air conditioning system. This can spread the contamination.

Remove the Water From the Flooded Area

  • Proper water extraction minimizes the possibility of secondary damage, potential microbial growth and reduces cost of repairs.
  • Typically the emergency restoration company brings specialized water extraction equipment to remove any freestanding water. They will extract water from your carpet, padding and/or upholstery.
  • The restoration company may remove the carpet and/or carpet padding to allow the area to dry
  • Special humidity meters are used to locate water damage you may not see.
  • For smaller jobs, 1st Cooling rents the same professional-grade drying and dehumidifying equipment that the restoration companies use to dry the affected areas and return the humidity levels in your home to normal.