If you are reading this, you unfortunately know that no insurance can compensate you for lost memories. Florida Digital might be able to help.
We have had recent success with VHS tapes, photos, and films, as well as slides and some smaller videotape formats impacted by flood damage.
But, the sooner you act, the better chance of saving any of your precious media.
Here are a few tips:
VHS--Videos that still show visible water damage on or inside the black cases need to be removed. We use a small Phillips screwdriver for this.
Handle the two reels of tape carefully and be sure to note the left and right wheels.
We will then dry and clean the tape, rewind it, and load it into a new plastic case. This is a labor-intensive and time-consuming process, but we have had good results. If you cannot remove the reels all the more important to get them to us ASAP.
Videotape formats other than VHS (smaller size tapes) are harder to save as the tape is very narrow and prone to twist and warp, but we can try.
Please note: We have had problems trying to save the smaller VHS-C, but once again we will try. They can sometimes be reloaded in standard-size VHS cases.
Photos should be dried out before bringing them to us. When possible lay them face down on a hard, clean, and dry surface, and if possible put a book or other weight on them to prevent warping. DO NOT store damp photos or anything else that has flood damage in plastic bags! This will guarantee mold growth.
DVD/CD Discs are also salvageable. Handle carefully on edges to avoid finger prints and dry them gently with a dry soft cloth. Do not put them back in their cases unless the case is totally 110% dry.
Currently, the Internet is overwhelmed with “information” and tips on how to save flood-damaged media. At FDS, we know from experience from previous storms, especially the recent tropical storm Debbie in July gave us plenty of practice and experience.
But here is one from a source we trust.
https://www.today.com/home/flood-damage-how-save-photos-videos-dvds-t116071
Also, please understand this can be a 3, 4, or 5-step process and our fees will reflect this. We hope we can assist you with saving some or all of your beloved memories.
