After The Flood: Caring For Your Damaged Valuables And Heirlooms
Release Date: November 25, 2003
Release Number: 1499-21
» More Information on Washington Severe Storms and Flooding
EVERETT, Wash. -- Many family valuables and heirlooms damaged by water in the recent Washington floods can be saved and even restored.
To help flood victims recover water-damaged valuables and heirlooms, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Washington State Department of Emergency Management (WEMD) have compiled the following tips:
- Rinse wet objects with clear, clean water or a fine hose spray. Remove dried silt and debris with a soft brush or dab with a damp cloth. Avoid grinding debris into the object.
- Air-dry objects indoors if possible. Sunlight and rapid drying may cause some materials to split, warp and/or buckle.
- Fans, dehumidifiers, open windows, and air conditioners reduce humidity, and inhibit mold and mildew growth. Remove visible mold from walls, baseboards, floors and household surfaces with commercial disinfectants. Never use disinfectants on historic wallpapers.
- Place broken pieces, detached parts, and objects that might break in clearly labeled open containers. Do not attempt to repair them until they are completely dry.
- Documents, books, photographs and paper art may be extremely fragile when wet.
- Free the edges of prints and paper art from matting and frames. Allow them to air dry. You may also refrigerate or freeze them until a professional conservator can treat them.
- Never pull apart dried, stuck together photographs and negatives. Soak them in clean water until they separate naturally. Then rinse with clean water. Handle prints and negatives by their edges and place them on a dry, clean, and smooth surface.
- Textiles, leather, and other natural materials must be air-dried.
- Remove wet paintings from their frames but not from the stretcher. Air dry, face up, and out of direct sunlight.
- Furniture finishes and painted surfaces may develop a white haze or bloom. This does not require immediate action, however you should call a professional conservator.
- Rinse metal objects exposed to flood waters, mud, or silt with clear water then dry with a clean, soft cloth. Let heavy mud deposits on large metal sculptures dry and call a professional conservator for advice before removing the mud.
While these are general tips, FEMA and the Washington State Emergency Management Agency recommend you call a professional conservator about the best method to restore your heirlooms and historic objects.
On March 1, 2003, FEMA became part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. FEMA's continuing mission within the new department is to lead the effort to prepare the nation for all hazards and effectively manage federal response and recovery efforts following any national incident. FEMA also initiates proactive mitigation activities, trains first responders, and manages the National Flood Insurance Program and the U.S. Fire Administration.
Last Modified: Tuesday, 25-Nov-2003 13:50:38