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What to Do in the First 24 Hours After Any Home Disaster

Last updated October 25, 2026

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The short answer

Safety First

Your safety is the top priority after any disaster. Check for obvious hazards like downed power lines, gas leaks, or structural damage. If you smell gas or see sparks, leave the home immediately and call emergency services from a safe distance.

Wear protective gear such as sturdy shoes, gloves, and a mask if you enter affected areas. Avoid standing water if there is any chance of electrical wires, and do not touch wet electrical items. See a doctor if you feel unwell from fumes or debris.

Keep your shutoff valve location written down so you can act quickly in an emergency.

  • Turn off water, gas, and electricity only if it is safe to do so.
  • Evacuate if the structure feels unstable or you hear creaking sounds.
  • Use a flashlight, not candles, to avoid fire risks.
  • Keep children and pets away from damaged zones.
  • Call 911 for life-threatening situations.

Stop Further Damage

Once you are safe, take steps to prevent the situation from worsening. For water damage, shut off the main water valve if a pipe burst. For fire or smoke, close doors to limit soot spread, but only if the fire is out and it is safe.

Move furniture, rugs, and belongings away from wet or damaged areas. Place aluminum foil or plastic sheeting under furniture legs to avoid stains. Use towels or a wet-dry vacuum to remove standing water if you have one.

Do not attempt major repairs yourself. Focus on temporary measures like tarping a broken window or roof leak. The pros can handle structural drying and dehumidification later.

Document Everything

Take photos and videos of all damage before you move or clean anything. Capture wide shots and close-ups, including items you discard. This record helps with your insurance claim and gives the pros a clear picture of what happened.

Make a list of damaged possessions, noting their approximate age and value if you know it. Save receipts for any supplies you buy, like tarps or fans. Keep all documentation in a safe, dry place, such as a plastic bag or a digital cloud.

Your insurance company will need this information. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Contact them as soon as you can to start the process.

Contact the Right Help

Reach out to your insurance company promptly to report the disaster. Ask what steps they recommend and what documentation they require. They may provide a list of approved restoration services or guidance on temporary housing.

For serious damage, contact local water damage pros. They can assess the situation, extract standing water, and begin structural drying. For mold concerns, a mold professional can test and advise. Do not wait too long, as mold can develop within 24 to 48 hours in humid conditions.

If you are unsure who to call, your insurance company can often point you in the right direction.

Plan Your Next Steps

After the first day, you will need a plan. Review your insurance policy to understand what is covered, including temporary housing if your home is uninhabitable. Ask your insurer about deadlines for filing a claim.

Consider the scope of the work. For extensive damage, you may need deep cleaning, structural drying, or even full reconstruction. The pros can provide a detailed assessment and outline the steps involved. Keep a written log of all communications and actions taken.

Humidity and temperature affect how quickly materials dry and how soon mold can grow. In any climate, aim to begin drying efforts within the first day or two. The pros can advise on drying times based on your local conditions.

Need help right now?

Call (952) 522-6744 any time, day or night, and describe what happened.

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Frequently asked questions

Should I clean up water myself?

You can remove small amounts of water with towels or a wet-dry vacuum. But for large areas or if the water is contaminated, wait for the pros. They have the equipment to extract water and dry structures properly, reducing the risk of mold and structural damage.

What if I have to throw away damaged items?

Before discarding anything, take photos and note the item in your list. Keep a sample of materials like carpet or drywall if possible, as your insurer may want to see it. Dispose of items only after documenting them thoroughly.

Can I stay in my home during cleanup?

It depends on the extent of damage and safety hazards. If there is structural damage, mold, or contaminated water, it may be unsafe. Consult your insurance company and local pros for advice. See a doctor if you experience any health issues from the conditions.

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