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Flooding is one of the most devastating events a homeowner can face. Once the immediate danger has passed, the recovery process can be daunting, but taking the right steps is crucial to minimize further harm and begin the path toward restoring your home.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency and other officials off these six tips for flood recovery:

1. Make Sure It’s Safe to Return Home

Before heading back to your house, ensure it’s safe by keeping track of local updates and waiting for officials to declare the area free of danger. If you evacuated, resist the urge to rush back. Entering a home without taking safety precautions can lead to injury or more damage.

If possible, turn off the electricity before entering your home—but only if you can safely reach the fuse box without walking through water. If water is blocking access, wait for a professional electrician to handle it. Floodwater can also conceal hidden hazards like sharp objects or harmful contaminants, so be sure to wear protective clothing, boots, and gloves.

2. Document the Damage

Before you begin any cleanup, thoroughly document the damage. Take pictures of everything from waterlogged furniture to structural damage to support your insurance claim. The more evidence you collect, the easier it will be to process your claim.

Be on the lookout for buckled floors and walls, which may indicate structural instability. If you see these signs, do not enter the area, as it could collapse.

3. Filing an Insurance Claim

Report flood damage to your home insurance company as soon as possible. If you have flood insurance, you may be covered for damages caused by natural disasters. For damage from appliances or sewage backups, homeowners insurance may also offer some coverage.

Make sure to provide your insurer with detailed documentation of the damage. Depending on your coverage, you may be eligible for compensation to replace damaged items or hire professional help for cleanup.

Remember that standard homeowners insurance doesn’t typically cover flood damage, so it’s worth checking into flood insurance options if you’re at risk in the future.

5. Cleaning Up After the Flood

If your insurance doesn’t cover professional cleaning services, you’ll need to start the cleanup yourself—and it’s crucial to act quickly. The longer water sits, the higher the risk of mold and mildew, which can pose health hazards and require costly professional removal.

Carpets: If water has seeped into your carpets, dry them as soon as possible to prevent mold. Open all windows to speed up the drying process, and if the damage is too severe, it may be more practical to replace the carpets entirely.

Flooring: Flooding can damage the structural integrity of your home. Removing as much water as possible quickly is key, and a sump pump can be very effective. For extensive flooding that impacts multiple floors, professional help may be necessary.

Furniture: Some flood-damaged furniture can be salvaged, especially wood pieces, which can often be repaired. Upholstered furniture may be a total loss, as floodwater can embed mold spores deep inside cushions and padding.

6. Electrical and Gas Safety

Electrical appliances that have been submerged in water should not be used until they have been checked by a certified repair professional. Using these appliances without proper inspection can lead to electrical fires.

Similarly, gas appliances damaged by floodwaters should be repaired and inspected by professionals before being used again. Gas leaks caused by flood damage can lead to fires or explosions if not handled properly.

Flood recovery is a difficult process, but by taking these steps, you can ensure your family’s safety and begin rebuilding your home. Start by prioritizing safety, documenting damage, and seeking help from your insurance provider, and remember that the sooner you begin, the better your chances of minimizing long-term damage.