Described is the result of bursting frozen water pipes on documents in the Palais de Justice de Québec during the winter of 1975 and the methods used for conservation of the water-damaged material. Citing that example, as well as the disasters in Florence, Italy, Corning, New York, U.S.A., and Fort Williams, Canada, the author calls for formation of a national center for emergency protection and salvage of museum objects. Steps to be followed in case of a museum disaster are outlined.