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What Should You Do in the First Hour After a Water Disaster?

Last updated October 26, 2026

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The short answer

Stop the Water Source

Your first move is to stop the flow of water. Locate the main shutoff valve for your home and turn it off. If the leak is from a specific appliance, like a washing machine, turn off its supply valve as well. Knowing where these valves are before an emergency saves precious time.

If you live in Cincinnati, keep a written note of your shutoff valve locations near the main electrical panel. After stopping the water, you can also turn off the electricity to the affected rooms if it is safe to do so. Never enter standing water if the power is on. If you are unsure how to proceed, a plumber or an electrician can help.

Protect Your Belongings

Move furniture, rugs, and other valuables out of the wet area. Lift items onto blocks or foil to keep them off the wet carpet. Hang wet curtains and remove wet upholstery if possible. The goal is to reduce the amount of water damage to your possessions.

Do not try to dry everything yourself with hairdryers or heaters; that can cause further damage. Instead, focus on removing as much water as you can with towels and a mop. If you have a wet vacuum, use it to extract water from carpets and floors. This initial effort helps the pros when they begin their work.

  • Turn off the main water valve
  • Move furniture to a dry area
  • Lift rugs and carpets off the floor
  • Use towels to soak up standing water
  • Open windows for ventilation if weather allows
  • Do not use electrical appliances in wet areas

Document Everything

Take photos and videos of all the damage before you start cleaning. Capture the source of the water, the affected rooms, and any damaged items. Make a list of everything that got wet, including the approximate value if you know it. This documentation is important for your insurance claim.

Keep all receipts for any supplies you buy, like towels or buckets. Do not throw away damaged items until you have checked with your insurance company. The pros can also help with a thorough assessment and documentation, which is often a separate service. This record helps you and the pros understand the full scope of the damage.

Contact Your Insurance

Call your insurance company as soon as you have stopped the water and documented the scene. They will tell you what your policy covers and what steps to take next. Ask about deadlines for filing a claim and whether you need a professional inspection. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.

Be honest and thorough when you describe the damage. Do not try to hide anything. Your insurance company may ask for photos and a list of damaged items. Keep a log of all your conversations with them. If you are unsure about anything, ask for clarification. This is the time to get clear answers.

Call the Pros

After you have done the initial safety steps, contact local water damage pros. They have the equipment to extract water, dry out your home, and prevent mold growth. Acting quickly is important because moisture can cause further damage within hours. The pros can also help with cleanup and repairs.

When you call, describe the situation clearly and ask what services they offer. They may recommend a water damage inspection to assess the extent of the damage. This inspection can help you understand what needs to be done. The pros can also guide you on what to do next, including whether you need to remove flooring or drywall.

  • Ask about water extraction and drying
  • Inquire about mold prevention
  • Check if they handle flooring removal
  • Ask about wall and ceiling repairs
  • Get a clear explanation of the process

Water damage does not wait

Call (513) 854-7491 any time, day or night, and describe what happened.

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Frequently asked questions

Should I turn off the electricity if there is water on the floor?

Do not go near the water if the power is on. Go to your electrical panel and turn off the main breaker if it is safe to reach. If you cannot do so safely, leave the area and call an electrician. Your safety comes first.

Can I start cleaning up before the pros get here?

Yes, you can remove small amounts of water with towels and a mop. Move furniture to a dry area and lift rugs. Do not use a regular vacuum on wet surfaces. Leave heavy extraction to the pros to avoid further damage.

How do I know if my insurance covers the damage?

Your insurance company will tell you what is covered after you file a claim. Take photos and list all damaged items. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Contact them as soon as possible to start the process.

Call Now (513) 854-7491