Water damage can be a significant problem, causing significant damage to your home and belongings. If you experience water damage, it is important to act quickly to minimize the extent of the damage. * **Turn off the water source.** This will prevent any further water from entering your home. * **Call a water damage cleanup company.** A professional water damage cleanup company will have the experience and equipment to quickly and effectively clean up the water and dry out your home. * **Remove standing water.** If there is any standing water in your home, remove it as quickly as possible. Use a wet/dry vacuum or a mop to remove the water. * **Open windows and doors.** This will help to air out your home and prevent mold growth. * **Remove wet items.** Remove any wet items from your home, such as furniture, carpets, and clothing. Place these items in a dry area until they can be cleaned or dried. ## What Not to Do After Water Damage There are a few things you should not do after water damage occurs: * **Do not use a regular vacuum cleaner to remove water.** This can damage the vacuum cleaner and spread the water around. * **Do not turn on fans or air conditioners.** This can blow the water around and spread the damage. * **Do not use heat to dry out your home.** This can damage your home and belongings. * **Do not enter a damaged area if there is standing water.** This could be dangerous, as the water could be electrified. * **Do not touch any electrical equipment that has been exposed to water.** This could be dangerous, as the equipment could be live.