What is the first step to take when dealing with a water-damaged area?

When dealing with a water-damaged area, the most crucial initial step is to remove standing water. This is vital because standing water can lead to further damage, promote mold growth, and create hazardous conditions. The immediate removal of water mitigates these risks, allowing for better air circulation and reducing the overall moisture level in the environment.

Once the standing water is dealt with, further steps such as using fans for airflow, dehumidifying the space, and sealing crawl spaces can be implemented effectively. However, these actions become less effective and more complicated if standing water is allowed to persist. Thus, prioritizing the removal of standing water is essential in the moisture control process.