What to Do Immediately After Dropping Your Phone in Water

We've all been there: a slip of the hand, and suddenly your phone is submerged. Panic sets in. But what you do in the next few minutes can determine whether your phone survives. Here is the correct protocol for water damage.

Step 1: Get It Out and Turn It Off

Remove the phone from the water instantly. The longer it stays submerged, the more water seeps in. Once it's out, power it down immediately. Do not press any other buttons, as this can force water further inside.

Step 2: Remove the Case and Accessories

Take off the case, remove the SIM card tray, and unplug any headphones or cables. You want to open up as many avenues for water to escape as possible.

Step 3: Dry the Exterior

Use a lint-free towel or microfiber cloth to gently dab the phone dry. Do not aggressively rub it, and absolutely do not shake the phone, as that will push water deeper into the components.

Step 4: DO NOT Use Rice or Heat

The rice trick is a myth; rice dust can actually get into the ports and cause more damage. Similarly, do not use a hair dryer, as the heat can melt the adhesive holding your phone together.

Step 5: Seek Professional Help

Even if the phone seems fine after drying, corrosion can silently destroy the motherboard over the next few days. Bring it to a professional repair shop like TechPoint LLC as soon as possible for a proper internal cleaning and diagnostic.