Emergency Information

Water Damage Emergency Tips

Know what to do when water damage strikes. These essential tips can help minimize damage while you wait for professional help to arrive.

Emergency: 541-821-3664Request Service

Time is critical: Mold can begin growing within 24-48 hours of water damage. The faster you act, the less damage you'll have.

Immediate Steps to Take

Follow these critical steps as soon as you discover water damage in your home or business.

Turn Off Electricity

Critical

If safe to do so, turn off the electricity to affected areas. Water and electricity are a dangerous combination. If you can't safely reach the breaker, call your utility company.

Stop the Water Source

Critical

If the water is coming from a burst pipe or appliance, shut off the main water valve. Know where your main shutoff is located before an emergency occurs.

Call Professionals Immediately

Critical

Time is critical with water damage. Mold can begin growing within 24-48 hours. Call our 24/7 emergency line for immediate response.

Document Everything

Important

Take photos and videos of all damage before any cleanup begins. This documentation is essential for insurance claims and will help ensure you receive proper compensation.

Do's and Don'ts

While waiting for professional help, here's what you should and shouldn't do.

Do's

  • Remove valuable items from affected areas if safe to do so
  • Lift furniture off wet carpets using aluminum foil or wood blocks
  • Remove throw rugs and area rugs from wet floors
  • Open closet and cabinet doors to promote air circulation
  • Prop up wet furniture cushions to allow air circulation
  • Remove books, magazines, and papers from wet areas
  • Mop up standing water if small amounts are present
  • Turn on air conditioning or heating to help with drying

Don'ts

  • Don't enter rooms with standing water if electricity is on
  • Don't use household vacuums to remove water - use wet/dry vacuums only
  • Don't remove wall-to-wall carpet without professional help
  • Don't use electrical appliances while standing on wet surfaces
  • Don't leave wet fabrics in place - mold can develop quickly
  • Don't attempt to repair plumbing leaks without shutting off water first
  • Don't ignore musty odors - they indicate mold growth
  • Don't wait to call for help - time is critical

Understanding Water Damage Types

Not all water damage is the same. Understanding the category of water can help you take appropriate precautions.

Moderate Urgency

Category 1 - Clean Water

Water from a clean source like a broken water supply line, faucet, or rainwater. While initially clean, it can quickly become contaminated.

Examples: Broken water lines, sink overflows, melting ice or snow
High Urgency

Category 2 - Gray Water

Water with some contamination that could cause illness if ingested. Contains bacteria and other microorganisms.

Examples: Dishwasher overflow, washing machine overflow, toilet overflow with urine
Critical Urgency

Category 3 - Black Water

Highly contaminated water containing pathogens, bacteria, and other harmful substances. Poses serious health risks and requires immediate professional attention.

Examples: Sewage backup, flooding from rivers or streams, toilet overflow with feces

Don't Wait - Call Now for Immediate Emergency Response

Our emergency response team is available 24/7 to help Bucks County homeowners and businesses. The faster we respond, the more we can save.

Call 541-821-3664View Our Services
24/7 Emergency Response

Water Damage? We're Here to Help.

Don't wait - water damage gets worse every minute. Our certified technicians are ready to respond within 60 minutes, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week throughout Southern Oregon.

(541) 821-3664