Storm Damage Mitigation Tips to review

5/15/2020 (Permalink)

Mitigation Tips: (Perform only when structure has been cleared as safe.)

• Take the greatest caution while entering your home, and wear sturdy shoes and protective clothing when dealing with flooded areas. Wear protective clothing at all times.
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  Take photos or video to record conditions of collections and structure. Make sure images clearly record damage.
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  Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting.
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  Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removing lamps and tabletop items.
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  Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying.
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  Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
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  Remove any paintings, art objects, documents and other sensitive materials to a safe, dry place.
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  Place fans at 45-degree angles to walls and move large furniture away from walls to create the best air circulation.
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  Appoint a media liaison to report conditions and need for help/volunteers. You may have to limit access to collections.
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  Do not enter rooms with standing water where electrical shock hazards may exist.
  Do not attempt to operate any electrical equipment while standing in wet or damp locations.
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  Do not leave books, newspapers, magazines or other colored items on wet carpets or floors to cause staining.
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  Do not leave Oriental rugs or other colored rugs on wet wall-to-wall carpets to cause staining.
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  Do not use TVs or other appliances while standing on wet carpets or floors, especially not on wet concrete floors.
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  Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet or enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water.
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  Do not turn on heat unless required for human comfort.
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  Do not move objects or collections without documenting their condition.
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  Throw away all foods – even canned goods – that have come into contact with flood waters.
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  If your home has a crawlspace, be aware excess moisture in this area can often foster mold growth.