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San Pedro Bay Water ResponseWater Damage Help · Long Beach, CA

How Do I Protect My Home While Waiting for Restoration Help?

Last updated October 25, 2026

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The short answer

Stop the Water Source

Your most immediate priority is to stop more water from entering your home. If you can identify and safely access the source, turn off the main water shutoff valve. For a burst pipe, this stops the flow. If water is entering from outside, try to divert it away from your foundation with sandbags or a shovel.

If you cannot stop the source, contain the water by placing buckets under active leaks. Check your water heater and washing machine hoses, as these are common failure points. Knowing your main shutoff valve's location is crucial for any plumbing emergency. If you live in Long Beach, keep your shutoff valve location written down.

Address Electrical Hazards

Water and electricity are a dangerous combination. Go to your home's breaker panel and turn off the power to any rooms or areas that are wet. If the entire panel or the room with the panel is wet, avoid touching it and call an electrician for assistance.

Never use a standard household vacuum or any electrical appliance on wet surfaces. Do not stand in water while operating switches or unplugging devices. Assume that any electrical outlet, light fixture, or switch near water is a shock hazard until a qualified electrician confirms it is safe.

Remove and Protect Your Belongings

Move smaller, valuable items like electronics, important documents, and area rugs to a dry area. This can prevent further damage and may save these items. If furniture is sitting in water, lift and place aluminum foil or wood blocks under the legs to prevent carpet staining.

For larger items you cannot move, try to elevate them onto blocks. Do not attempt to move large, waterlogged furniture by yourself, as it can be heavy and cause injury. Focus on items that are most important to you and can be safely handled without assistance.

Promote Air Circulation

Increasing airflow helps slow secondary damage like mold growth. Open windows and doors if the weather outside is dry. Use fans to circulate air, but only if electrical safety has been confirmed. A dehumidifier can also help pull moisture from the air in a contained, safe room.

Opening windows can be very effective when the outdoor air is dry. However, avoid this if it is actively raining or very humid outside, as it can introduce more moisture. The goal is to dry the environment, not add to it.

  • Open interior doors to allow air to move between rooms.
  • Remove wet cushions and pillows from furniture to dry separately.
  • Pull back wet drapes or curtains from windows.
  • Wipe down visible water from hard surfaces like countertops.
  • Place towels on floors to soak up small standing puddles.
  • Empty and dry out any drawers or cabinets that got wet.

Document the Damage

Take clear photographs and videos of all affected areas and damaged items before you move anything for safety. This visual record is critical for your insurance claim. Capture wide shots of the room and close-ups of specific damage to walls, floors, and belongings.

Make a written list of damaged items, including their age, brand, and approximate value if possible. Do not throw anything away until an insurance adjuster or the restoration pros have seen it. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. This documentation helps support your claim.

Water damage does not wait

Water keeps spreading into floors and walls, so it is worth acting early. Calls are answered 24/7.

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Frequently asked questions

Should I try to start drying things myself?

You can remove surface water with towels and mops, but avoid aggressive DIY drying. Professional equipment is needed to dry walls and floors properly. Using household fans on deep moisture can spread mold spores. Let the pros assess with moisture meters to prevent hidden damage.

What if I suspect there is mold?

If you see or smell mold, avoid disturbing the area. Do not use bleach or attempt to clean it yourself, as this can release spores. Keep the area ventilated if safe to do so and inform the water damage pros when they begin their assessment.

Can I stay in my home during this process?

You can often stay if the damage is minor and contained, and there are no electrical or structural hazards. For extensive flooding or sewage backups, it may be safer to stay elsewhere until initial cleanup is complete. Always prioritize your family's health and safety first.

Call Now (562) 512-6288