+ What to do when you have a loss, or experience property damage

Nobody ever expects to have a property loss or for that matter experience any kind of accident. In the event you are unfortunate enough to have to make an Insurance claim because you have experienced a loss it is important you follow these necessary steps to ensure your health and safety.

  1. Make sure you and your family are safe and if necessary evacuate your house and call emergency services if required.
  2. If your safety is not in jeopardy, find the cause of your loss.
  3. Try to eliminate the source. For example, shut off the water supply creating the problem or cover over a broken window to prevent further damage.
  4. Remove any contents from the damage area to try to prevent further damage.
  5. Arrange for an Emergency Restoration Company such as First General Muskoka to attend and control the situation in order to mitigate or minimize further damage.
  6. Contact your Insurance Company to report the incident and follow their instructions. It is your obligation to minimize damage after a loss. It is your right to contact a Restoration Firm of your choice to professionally deal with the situation. For immediate assistance, call First General Services' 24 hour hotline at: 1-877-789-4697 The faster you act, the more likely you will be to minimize damage and stress.

+ What to do about water damage

  1. Immediately shut off the main water supply
  2. Make sure all drains are clear
  3. Remove any excess water with appropriate water extraction equipment
  4. Remove any possessions in the path of the water
  5. Wipe water from any affected possessions and move onto protective sheets to minimize further damage
  6. Do not utilize any electronic appliances
  7. Do not consume food items exposed to water
  8. Move all pets to a clean environment

+ What to do about fire and smoke damage

  1. Make sure ventilation system is off except when temperature is below freezing (32F)
  2. Wipe off any polished surfaces affected by smoke to reduce staining or etching caused by soot
  3. Open windows to ventilate if possible
  4. Move all pets to a clean environment
  5. Do not use any electrical appliances or devices until they have been cleaned and checked
  6. Empty your refrigerator or freezer completely if the electricity is down
  7. Do not attempt to wash surfaces other than wipe polished surfaces
  8. Close doors in affected areas to localize smoke odors
  9. Do not consume food items exposed to fire or smoke
  10. When temperatures are below freezing (0C) pour anti-freeze in toilet bowls, sinks and tub if heat is off
  11. Stay out of all impacted rooms until safety is assured

+ What to do about wind damage

Have First General Muskoka remove loose debris and secure openings in the roof to minimize water entry

+ What to do about catastrophic storms

Immediately contact First General Muskoka to control the situation as these are very confusing times for the entire community

+ What to do about vehcile impact damage and vandalism

Evacuate affected areas and prohibit access. Have First General Muskoka ensure property is stable before re-entering