RISMEDIA, May 9, 2011—The following helpful tips, offered by East Coast Public Adjusters, Inc., will guide you through the dos and don’ts of any home emergency.
Water Damage:
Do:
• Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and table top items
• Remove and prop wet upholstery and pillow cushions for even drying
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting
• Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in summer
• Remove Oriental rugs or other colored rugs from wet wall-to-wall carpeting
• Remove valuable paintings and art objects to a safe, dry place
• Open and place luggage in sunlight to dry, if possible
• Gather loose items, toys, etc. from floors
Don’t:
• Leave wet fabrics in place; dry as soon as possible. Hang furs and leather goods to dry separately at room temperature
• Leave books, magazines or other colored items on wet carpets or floors
• Use your household vacuum to remove water
• Use TVs or other household appliances while standing on wet carpets or floors–especially wet concrete
Fire Damage:
Do:
• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpets
• Keep hands clean; soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork
• Blow, brush or vacuum loose soot particles from upholstery, drapes and carpets
• Place clean towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas
• Clean and protect chrome on kitchen and bathroom faucets, trim and appliances with light coating of Vaseline or oil
• Wash house plants on both sides of leaves
• Change HVAC filter
Don’t:
• Attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without first contacting a professional
• Attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture without first consulting a professional
• Attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to the fire, heat or water without first consulting an authorized repair service
• Turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet—wiring may be wet or damaged
Vandalism Damage:
Do:
• Hose or wash egg damage from building exterior as soon as possible
• Blot freshly spilled food from carpets and fabrics with a dampened cloth or sponge; scrape and blot—don’t rub.
• Vacuum glass particles from carpets and upholstery
• Save containers, which reveal the composition of spilled inks, cosmetics and paints
Don’t:
• Attempt to remove ink, paint or cosmetic stains
• Operate damaged lamps or appliances
• Discard wood chips, broken pieces from furniture, porcelain or other art objects
Hurricane Damage:
Do:
• Stock your home with emergency supplies like non perishable food and water, prescription medications, and a first aid kit
• Take photographs and videos of all damages areas
• Make a list of damaged or lost items; include their purchase date and value with receipts
• Turn off the electricity if you see sparks or frayed wires until an electrician has inspected your system for safety
• Turn off the main water valve if pipes are damaged
• Check with local authorities before using any water; the water could be contaminated
• Prevent mold by removing wet contents immediately
• Keep a copy of your insurance policy handy
• Keep our 24 Hours Claims Department Phone Number ready, there will always be an adjuster available to answer all your questions and ready to file your insurance claim for full, fair, fast compensation
Don’t:
• Go near unstable structures as the building may collapse
• Enter home if you smell gas or see floodwaters remain around building
• Make any repairs before consulting your public adjuster
For more information visit www.ecpaclaims.com.