DO....

• Remove as much water as possible by mopping and blotting. (blot wet carpeting with clean white towels).
• 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).
• Place aluminum foil, china saucers or unstained wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
• Turn on air conditioner for maximum drying in summer; open windows to speed drying in winter.
• Remove Orientals or other colored rugs from wet wall to wall carpeting.
• Open drawers and cabinet doors for complete drying (do not force, however).
• Remove valuable oil paintings and art objects to safe place.
• Open suitcases and luggage to dry, in sun light if possible.
• Remove damp books from shelves and spread out to dry.
• Remove wet fabrics and dry them as soon as possible. Hang furs and leather goods to dry separately at room temperature.
• Lift drapes off carpet, loop through a coat hanger, and place hanger on draper rod.
• Punch small holes in sagging ceilings to relieve trapped water (don’t forget to place pans beneath!).
• If the outside temperature is above 60 degrees, use dehumidifiers if available.

DO NOT….

• Do not use ordinary household vacuum to remove water.
• Do not lift tacked down carpet without professional help. Lifting the carpet incorrectly could promote shrinkage.
• Do not wait to call professional help. Damage from water and bacteria growth can begin within hours.
• Do not leave wet fabrics in wet place.
• Do not leave books magazines or other colored items on wet carpets or floors.
• Do not use TVs or other appliances while standing on wet carpet or floors, especially not on wet concrete floors.
• Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water.