Emergency Tips

What to Do in an Emergency

Your CRS representative is ready to help- 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

First, stay calm! Next, call CRS at (888) 353-1340

Fire and Smoke Damage – TAKE ACTION

DO

  • Call CRS (888) 353-1340
  • Call insurance company
  • Keep movement to a minimum and keep hands clean as you work. Both these measures will help loose smoke particles (soot) from penetrating upholstery, carpets, walls and woodwork, thereby causing more damage.
  • Clean and protect metal finishes from acidic soot pitting by wiping down and then lightly coat with Vaseline or WD-40.
  • Blow off or brush vacuum loose soot from upholstery, drapery, and carpets. Then cover upholstery with sheets. Place clean, dry towels or linens over carpets in heavy traffic areas.
  • If possible leave ventilation system off. If system must remain on change all filters. Cover all vents and returns with a double layer of cheesecloth.
  • If it is cold weather and the ventilation has to be shut off or is damaged pour antifreeze in all toilets, tubs, and sinks. This will help prevent frozen pipes. 
  • Wash both sides on all leaves on plants. Water from a softener helps.
  • If the electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator completely and prop open doors. Make sure you keep an inventory of discarded items to submit to the insurance company.
  • Have your property secured for example make sure doors and windows are boarded up if broken, tarp openings in the roof and siding to avert further damage from the elements and prevent theft. Take all valuables with you i.e. jewelry, cash, and credit cards.

DO NOT

  • Enter the building until deemed structurally secure and the fire department has released the scene. Never disturb the origin of the fire. Your insurance company will want to make a determination as to the cause and origin.
  • It is recommended that you do not try to clean and/ or repair items on your own. Leave this to professionals to prevent accidental damages and proper documentation.
  • Handle electronics risk of shock. Turn on any ceiling fixtures.

Water Damage – TAKE ACTION

DO

  • Call CRS (888) 353-1340
  • Call insurance company.
  • Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting. Open windows in cool weather to speed the drying process. In hot weather, switch on air conditioning if it is safe to do so. 
  • Remove all loose cushions and prop up on a clean sheet so they will dry thoroughly. Be careful to be aware of the fabrics that may bleed color.
  • Remove area rugs from wet wall to wall carpets.
  • Place aluminum foil between furniture legs and wet carpeting. Open drawers and doors on furniture and cabinets to help dry out interiors.  *Do not force if warped.
  • Wipe water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and tabletop items.
  • Cautiously punch small holes in small sagging ceilings to relieve trapped water. Place a drip pan under the openings and move any nearby furniture.
  • Remove artwork and books to a safe, dry place.
  • Dry all garments as soon as possible. Hang fur and leather goods to dry at room temperature.
  • Place suitcases and luggage to dry in sunlight and fresh air to dry.
  • Keep out of rooms where ceilings are really sagging from retained water.

DO NOT

  • Use or touch any electrical appliances and fixtures. Risk of shock.

Vandalism Damage – TAKE ACTION

DO

  • Call Police to make a report
  • Call CRS (888) 353-1340
  • Call insurance company
  • Wash off or hose down any egg damage as soon as possible.
  • Save any containers that may reveal what was used to mark walls etc. Spray cans, markers, cosmetics.