Helpful Tips

The aftermath of a disaster that has affected your residence can be stressful and traumatic. Paul Davis offers the following information and tips that will help the recovery process go smoother.

Contact Paul Davis for all your property damage needs. (403)342-4666

  • Obviously, it’s always important to be sure you and your family (and don’t forget pets) are safe and that you contact your friends and relatives to assure them that you are safe.
  • Report the damage to your insurance company as soon as it is possible.
  • Keep a listing of any household personal belongings or goods you have discarded and receipts for any expenses you incur in protecting your home.
  • Are you sure your house is safe? Depending on the extent of the damage, you may need to relocate temporarily until the repairs and cleanup are complete. (Notify your insurance company if this is the case.)

Water Damage Tips

You’ve suffered a water loss. While you are waiting for us to arrive, listed below are helpful tips to help deal with the damage:

  • Be Safe: Water events can present a lot of possible safety hazards to occupants. The potential for electric shock and slips and falls are real. Keep in mind, items soaked with water can be very heavy. Only perform tasks that can be done so safely.
  • Water Source: It is important to turn off the water. For most, the main shut-off valve is located either in your garage or utility room, or outside, next to the water meter.
  • Electrical: Turn off all power to affected areas of the home. Do not operate the television or other electrical appliances while standing on wet flooring.
  • Air Conditioning: Turn on your air conditioner to speed up drying during the summer or in regions with more humidity.
  • Floors: Get rid of as much standing water as possible, using a mop or towels. (Don't use the vacuum cleaner.)
  • Carpeting: Blot soaked carpet with clean, white towels. Remove all colored rugs or Oriental rugs from wet wall-to-wall carpet.
  • Clothing/Fabrics: Move wet items to a dry area. Don't let draperies to remain in contact with wet floors or carpeting.
  • Furniture: Move lighter pieces away from the carpeting. Place plastic wrap or plastic bags under the legs of bigger furniture. Wipe any excess water off of the furniture.

Fire Damage Tips

You’ve suffered a fire loss. While you are waiting for Paul Davis to arrive, below are some tips to help handle with the damage:

  • Be Safe: Never reenter affected areas of the home until fire officials have deemed the home safe. Even after the fire is out, there are potential safety hazards to be aware of. The potential for slips and falls from the water used to diffuse the fire, as well as cuts and scrapes from exposed, sharp edges are real. Only perform tasks that can be done safely.
  • Going Back Inside: The aftermath of fire damage are measured down to microscopic levels. Even for a short time, entry by a person can create extra damage. Enter ONLY if emergency personnel have cleared the property and deemed it safe to enter and only if absolutely necessary.
  • Appliances/Electronics: Don't use any TV, stereo or other electrical appliances until they have been inspected by a technician. If the electricity is turned off, empty the contents of your refrigerator/freezer completely and prop the doors open using a rolled towel.
  • Carpets: Avoid being on carpet if possible. Do not use “do-it-yourself” home carpet cleaners.
  • Ceilings/Walls: Do not attempt to wipe or wash ceilings or other absorbent surfaces.
  • Doors: Close doors in affected areas to confine smoke odors as much as possible.
  • Food Items: Don't eat food items exposed to smoke or canned goods that have been exposed to excessive heat.
  • Furnace: Change the air conditioner or furnace filter if the blower is operating. Tape two pieces of cheesecloth over air registers with masking tape.
  • Pets: Relocate any pets to a safe environment until your home has been cleaned and restored.
  • Plants: Wash plants with water and mild soap, cleaning both sides of the leaves.
  • Windows: Open windows to ventilate the area when possible.

If your home or business is damaged by fire, mold, water, storm or other disaster, Call Paul!