A flood can be devastating, but there are ways to combat water damage and recover your belongings. Here are a few tips.

• If the outside temperature is above 60°F, use dehumidifiers if available.
• Use fans to circulate the air and assist drying.
• Do not enter rooms with standing water if the electricity is still on.
• Remove as much water as possible by mopping and blotting. Do not use an ordinary household vacuum to remove water.
• Wipe furniture dry.
• Lift draperies off carpet, loop them through a coat hanger, and hook the hanger on the drapery rod.
• Prop up wet furniture cushions for even drying and place small wood blocks or aluminum foil under furniture legs.
• Remove wet area rugs or other floor coverings. Do not lift tacked down carpet without professional help.
• Do not use electrical appliances while on wet carpet or wet floors.
• Open furniture drawers, closet doors, and luggage to promote drying.
• Move photos, paintings, and art objects to a safe, dry location.
• Remove wet fabrics and dry them as soon as possible. Hang furs and leather goods to dry separately at room temperature.
• Remove damp books from shelves and spread out to dry.
• If damage occurs during a cool season, leave heat on; if damage occurs in summer, use an air conditioner if available.