Water damage can strike suddenly, causing extensive property damage and discomfort. It’s crucial to act swiftly and effectively to minimize the effects of water intrusion. Here are immediate actions and initial response guidelines to help you navigate this challenging situation:

### Assess the Situation

1. Ensure safety: Turn off electricity and gas.
2. Locate the source of water: Check appliances, pipes, and windows.
3. Protect belongings: Move valuable items away from affected areas.

### Stop the Water Flow

1. Shut off the water source: Typically located in the basement or crawl space.
2. If unable to shut off the source, contact a plumber immediately.
3. Contain the water: Use towels, sandbags, or a wet/dry vacuum to prevent spreading.

### Remove Standing Water

1. Use a wet/dry vacuum to extract water from floors and carpets.
2. Open windows and doors to ventilate.
3. Remove wet furniture and belongings to prevent further damage.

### How to Fix Walls with Water Damage

1. Safety measures: Wear gloves and a mask when handling water-damaged materials.
2. Remove affected drywall: Cut away wet or moldy drywall using a utility knife.
3. Inspect studs: Check wall studs for damage. Replace any rotten or broken studs.
4. Dry the area: Use fans and dehumidifiers to remove moisture from the wall cavity.
5. Install new drywall: Replace the damaged drywall with new panels.
6. Paint: Apply a coat of primer and paint to protect the new drywall.