Bacteria growth can begin within hours. Call ServiceMaster Advantage immediately.

Do not remove books from shelves. Rather, pack them tightly to prevent warping of pages until a restoration professional can begin this specialized drying.

Most carpets can withstand water for up to three days, but immediate response to your loss is critical. In most cases ServiceMaster Advantage can be at your site within two to four hours.

Lift draperies off carpet, loop through a coat hanger, and place the hanger on the drapery rod.

Open furniture drawers, closet doors, and luggage to enhance drying. Move photos, paintings, and art objects to a safe, dry location.

Do not enter a room with standing water until electricity has been turned off.

Do not use a regular household vacuum to remove water.

Wood naturally holds water—up to 10% depending on the type of floor. Wood can absorb another 5% to 10% without showing any noticeable effects. Within a few days, however, floors that cannot hold the water any longer will expand, causing cupping or crowning, therefore emergency response is critical to minimize damage to wood floors.