Getting Organized: In Case of an Emergency

By  Megan Hebenstreit, CWCC Member

We all have some kind of organization system set up in our homes:   kids’ toys go in these bins, dirty clothes go here, cleaning supplies are under the sink, etc.  Some of us even hire professional organizers to get a fresh perspective on organizing or to maximize small spaces.  What most of us don’t think about is how to get organized in case of an emergency.  Do you have a plan set up if your washing machine overflows, thus flooding your laundry room, kitchen and living room?

Ways YOU can get organized BEFORE a fire or water damage :

1. In the internet age, most of us do everything online.  You could locate an insurance agent, secure coverage and pay your premium without ever meeting your agent.  Know who your insurance carrier and agent are – have your agent’s phone number handy to contact should a loss occur.
2. Understand your coverage.  Do you have sewer coverage, flood coverage, contents coverage in the correct amounts?
3. Backup your computer regularly.
4. If you have family heirlooms, antiques or pricey collections, document your possessions with photos, and receipts if possible.
5. When temperatures fall below zero keep a slow trickle of water flowing through faucets to prevent frozen pipes.
6. When temperatures fall below 30 degrees, keep cabinet doors open to allow warm air to circulate around pipes.

If you have water damage of any size, get organized with these simple tips:

1. Try to identify the source of water and stop the leak if possible, or turn off the water at its source.  This is easy to do if your bathtub is overflowing, turn the bathtub off.  If you come home to a flooded house, it may be more difficult to identify the source of water damage!
2. Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting, so your furniture legs don’t soak up water.  Most people have foil in their kitchen, so you can simply wrap foil around coffee table legs, chair legs, sofa legs, etc.
3. Move wet items to drier areas if possible.  Don’t hurt yourself trying to move heavy furniture alone.
4. Do not use electrical equipment or appliances while standing on wet flooring.
5. Document all receipts for any items you have replaced (rugs, electronics, food items, etc.) or using a plumber, roofer, etc.

Megan Hebenstreit, Sales and Marketing Representative SERVPRO

3h2o Inc. specializes in Fire and Water restoration and cleanup, commercial and residential carpet and floor cleaning, odor removal, upholstery cleaning, and residential air duct cleaning.

3h2o Inc., dba SERVPRO of Denver East, Englewood/East Littleton, Highlands Ranch/NW Douglas County has been serving the Denver Metro area for over 25 years.  Gary & Terri Mayfield started SERVPRO of Denver East out of their home, and ran the business without any additional employees for a few years.  Terri worked as a technician until she was six months pregnant with their first child!  Terri is the majority owner of 3h2o Inc. as well as the Vice President of the company.  After 25 years Gary still goes out on fire and water jobs to meet the home or business owners.  The Mayfields greatly enjoy helping people regain normalcy after a loss.

Please visit our website at:  http://www.servproofdenvereast.com/ Or call our office at 303-733-9076 to schedule a FREE estimate today.