Recent Posts
Advice on how to deal with Storm damages.
10/9/2023 (Permalink)
Dealing with storm damages can be a challenging and stressful situation. Here are some steps and advice to help you navigate through the aftermath of a storm:
1. **Ensure Safety First:**
- Prioritize safety for yourself and others. If your home is severely damaged, consider moving to a safer location temporarily.
2. **Assess the Damage:**
- Conduct a thorough assessment of the damage to your property, including structural damage, fallen trees, and other hazards. Take photos or videos for insurance purposes.
3. **Contact Authorities and Emergency Services:**
- Report any immediate threats or hazards to local authorities, such as downed power lines or blocked roads.
4. **Check for Injuries:**
- Ensure that everyone in your household is safe and check for injuries. Seek medical attention for any injuries that require it.
5. **Contact Insurance Company:**
- Notify your insurance company as soon as possible and provide them with detailed information about the damage. Follow their instructions for filing a claim.
6. **Document Damages:**
- Keep detailed records of all communications with your insurance company, including claim numbers and names of the representatives you spoke with.
7. **Mitigate Further Damage:**
- Take immediate action to prevent further damage to your property, if possible. Cover damaged areas with tarps or boards to protect against further exposure to the elements.
8. **Hire Professionals:**
- Hire licensed contractors, restoration specialists, or other professionals to assess and repair the damage. Make sure to get multiple quotes and check references.
9. **Inventory and Valuation:**
- Document and list all damaged or lost items. Include descriptions, photographs, and estimated values to assist with insurance claims.
10. **Stay Informed:**
- Keep yourself updated on weather forecasts and advisories to prepare for potential follow-up storms or adverse weather conditions.
11. **Community Support:**
- Reach out to local disaster relief agencies, community organizations, or government programs that can provide assistance and support during recovery.
12. **Seek Emotional Support:**
- Dealing with storm damage can be emotionally draining. Reach out to family, friends, or professionals to help cope with the stress and emotional impact.
13. **Plan for Future Storms:**
- Learn from this experience and take steps to better prepare for future storms. Consider installing storm shutters, reinforcing your home's structure, and creating an emergency preparedness kit.
14. **Stay Patient and Persistent:**
- Recovery takes time and effort. Stay patient throughout the process and continue working with your insurance company and professionals to restore your property.
Remember, reaching out to professionals and leaning on your support network can help ease the burden during these challenging times.
Advice on how to deal with mold damages
10/9/2023 (Permalink)
Dealing with mold damage can be challenging, but it's essential to address it promptly to prevent further health risks and structural problems. Here are steps to help you effectively deal with mold damage:
1. **Assess the Extent of the Damage:**
- Thoroughly inspect the affected areas to determine the extent of the mold growth and damage. Identify the affected surfaces and materials.
2. **Prioritize Safety:**
- Wear appropriate protective gear such as gloves, goggles, and an N95 respirator to avoid exposure to mold spores. Ventilate the area to reduce indoor air contamination.
3. **Isolate and Contain the Mold:**
- Isolate the affected area to prevent the spread of mold spores to other parts of your home. Use plastic sheets and tape to seal off the affected space.
4. **Remove and Discard Contaminated Materials:**
- Remove and dispose of heavily contaminated materials such as drywall, insulation, carpeting, and other porous items that cannot be adequately cleaned. Bag and seal them before removal.
5. **Clean and Disinfect:**
- Clean non-porous surfaces with a mixture of water and detergent or a specialized mold cleaner. Disinfect the area using a solution of water and vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, or a commercial disinfectant.
6. **Dry the Area:**
- Ensure the affected area is thoroughly dried using fans, dehumidifiers, or other drying equipment. Mold thrives in damp environments, so reducing moisture is crucial in preventing its return.
7. **Address Moisture Sources:**
- Identify and address the source of moisture that allowed the mold to grow, such as leaks, water damage, or high humidity. Fix plumbing issues, repair roof leaks, and improve ventilation to prevent future mold growth.
8. **Consider Professional Help:**
- For extensive mold damage or if you're uncertain about how to proceed, consult a professional mold remediation service. They have the expertise and equipment to handle severe mold issues safely and effectively.
9. **Monitor and Maintain:**
- Regularly monitor the previously affected area and surrounding spaces for signs of recurring mold. Maintain proper ventilation, keep humidity levels in check, and promptly address any water damage to prevent future issues.
10. **Prevent Future Mold Growth:**
- Keep indoor humidity levels below 60% and use dehumidifiers in damp areas. Properly ventilate bathrooms, kitchens, and other areas prone to moisture. Regularly clean and maintain your home to prevent mold growth.
Remember, mold removal and remediation should be done safely and thoroughly to protect your health and prevent further damage. If you're unsure or uncomfortable handling the situation yourself, seeking professional help is always a good option.
Advice on how to be safe from fire
10/9/2023 (Permalink)
Being prepared and knowledgeable about fire safety is crucial to ensure your safety and the safety of others in the event of a fire. Here are some essential tips to help you stay safe from fires:
1. **Install Smoke Alarms and Carbon Monoxide Detectors:**
- Place smoke alarms on every floor of your home, especially near bedrooms and in common areas.
- Test smoke alarms regularly and replace batteries at least twice a year.
2. **Create a Fire Escape Plan:**
- Develop a clear and practical fire escape plan for your home or workplace.
- Identify primary and secondary escape routes from each room.
- Practice the escape plan regularly with all family members or colleagues.
3. **Know How to Use Fire Extinguishers:**
- Keep fire extinguishers in key areas of your home, such as the kitchen, garage, and near potential fire hazards.
- Learn how to use a fire extinguisher and understand the PASS (Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep) technique.
4. **Keep Fire Hazards in Check:**
- Regularly inspect and maintain electrical appliances, cords, and outlets for signs of wear or damage.
- Don't overload electrical outlets or extension cords.
- Avoid using damaged electrical appliances and cords.
5. **Practice Fire-Safe Cooking:**
- Never leave cooking unattended, especially on the stovetop.
- Keep flammable items, such as towels and curtains, away from cooking surfaces.
- Use caution when cooking with oil or deep frying; always have a lid nearby to cover the pan if needed.
6. **Maintain Heating Equipment:**
- Have heating systems, chimneys, and fireplaces inspected and cleaned annually by professionals.
- Use appropriate safety measures when using space heaters, ensuring they're placed away from flammable materials and turned off when not in use.
7. **Be Mindful of Candles and Open Flames:**
- Keep candles away from flammable materials and never leave them unattended.
- Consider using flameless LED candles as a safer alternative.
8. **Store Hazardous Materials Safely:**
- Store flammable liquids and chemicals in a well-ventilated area away from heat sources.
- Follow proper storage guidelines for household chemicals and fuels.
9. **Educate Your Family and Team:**
- Educate everyone in your household or workplace about fire safety procedures and prevention.
- Teach children about the dangers of fire and what to do in case of a fire.
10. **Know How to React During a Fire:**
- If a fire occurs, stay low to the ground to avoid smoke inhalation and crawl to safety if necessary.
- Call emergency services immediately once you are in a safe location.
11. **Keep Important Documents Secure:**
- Store important documents (e.g., passports, insurance policies, medical records) in a fireproof safe or a secure off-site location.
Remember, being proactive and prepared can make a significant difference in ensuring your safety and the safety of others in the event of a fire.
Natural Disaster: Is Your Small Business Protected?
9/9/2022 (Permalink)
Natural Disasters damages normally create water damage, Storm damage, unprecedented mold, and/or accidental fires. We don't want any loss to occur to your business, but it is a topic that needs to be talked about. Unexpected property damage happens more often than we like.
During natural disasters, profits can be reduced as a result of lost sales and additional losses. Insurance does not cover all costs, and it is unable to replace customers who defect to a competition.
Here at SERVPRO, want to make sure that our community is prepared to face any obstacles.
Common Natural Disaster Damages
Wangari Maathai stated, “Mother Nature is very generous but very unforgiving“. Natural disasters have caused severe damages. Here are common natural damages that have impacted small businesses in your area
Flood + Storm Damage
Damage caused by strong winds and heavy rain can remove roof tiles, break windows, and more. Depending on how severe the storm is, flood remediation might be needed, aka water remediation/mitigation services.
Water damage mitigation services commonly consist of drying, cleaning, and sanitizing contaminated areas and items. Following that, materials that have been damaged are repaired. This preserves the structural integrity of water-damaged floors, walls, and ceilings. Restoration work starts after the remediation process is completed and continues until your property is completely restored to its pre-flood condition.
Trust The Leader In The Restoration Industry
Don’t remain unaware of what can happen to your commercial building. And for emergency Fire and Water Remediation Services, don’t wait! call SERVPRO
PREVENTING AN EXTERNAL BUSINESS FIRE
9/9/2022 (Permalink)
External fire damage prevention remains a top priority for many businesses. While it is important to focus on preventing fires from igniting within the facility, external preventative measures should be considered as well. Since nearly every state has laws prohibiting smoking in public places, smoking occurs outside, often around the business by shrubbery and mulch. These fires can slow-burn for hours due to smoldering tunnels under the surface that later break out into open flame. Be mindful of the following tips to prevent fires from starting outside your business.
- Keep the mulch at least 18 inches away from combustible building materials, such as wood and decks.
- Provide proper receptacles for smoking materials at all entrances and in designated smoking at least 18 inches from the building and empty receptacles regularly.
- Keep mulch beds moist when possible.
If you need to create a controlled fire outside, remember the following:
- Don’t start open fires when the ground and surrounding vegetation are dry.
- Don’t burn when winds are stronger than a gentle breeze.
- Always have a strong water source ready in case a fire begins to get out of control.
- Stay with the fire at all times.
- When finished, rake through the ashes to ensure that all coals are cooled.
With these helpful tips, SERVPRO hopes your business remains free of fire damage. If you find yourself in an emergency, we're available to help reverse fire damage thoroughly and professionally.
Average Time for Fire Damage Repair
9/9/2022 (Permalink)
If your home has been damaged by fire, you may be wondering how long it would take to repair it. While small damage can be repaired in a few days, serious damage can take weeks or months to fix. However, no fire damage restoration can commence until the fire service has cleared the area. Depending on the jurisdiction, this process can take many days or weeks. Here's all you need to know about repairing fire damage.
First and foremost, the property must be secured. This includes enclosing the area with fencing and cleaning up any debris left behind. To prevent cross-contamination, you should also seal off roofs and tarp them. After the initial cleanup, you should hire an expert to help you.
Fire damage restoration typically entails rebuilding the home's structural parts as well as repairing or replacing destroyed items. Painting and drywall installation are examples of additional services. Some fire damage restoration businesses provide complete reconstruction services, while others merely perform certain repairs. If you have a lot of drywall damage, you might want to hire a business that specialises in removing and storing smoke and soot stains. Jenkins Restoration can help you restore your house or apartment to its original condition, regardless of the type of fire damage restoration you require.
Understanding The Research On Electrical Fires May Help You Avoid One In Your Home
9/9/2022 (Permalink)
Electrical Fires
Fires involving electrical failures or malfunctions accounted for the highest share of civilian deaths (18%) and direct property damage (20%). This is according to a National Fire Protection Association report that was done in 2019.
Home electrical fires can start in wiring, electrical distribution systems, and lighting equipment, as well as in any equipment powered by electricity such as cooking, heating, office and entertainment equipment, washers and dryers, as well as electrical distribution or lighting equipment.
If you own an older home, it's important that you have your outlets and wiring checked. Aging electrical systems in older homes can be a source of arc faults, either through normal wear and tear or because the systems cannot accommodate the greater demands of modern appliances.
We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.
Fire Research Information Might Help To Keep Your Family Safe
More than one-quarter of the reported fires occurred in home environments, according to the National Fire Protection Association. They have also researched specific causes.
Most home fires and fire casualties result from five causes: cooking, heating equipment, electrical distribution and lighting equipment, intentional fire setting, and smoking materials.
Here are some tips to help avoid some of these causes:
Cooking
Stay in the kitchen when you are frying, grilling, or broiling food.
If you leave the kitchen for even a short period of time, turn off the stove.
Wear short, close-fitting or tightly rolled sleeves when cooking.
Keep children away from cooking areas by enforcing a "kid-free zone" of 3 feet around the stove.
Position barbecue grills at least 10 feet away from siding and deck railings, and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.
Smoking
Smoke outside and completely stub out butts in an ashtray or a can filled with sand.
Soak cigarette butts and ashes in water before throwing them away.
Never toss hot cigarette butts or ashes in the trash can.
Never smoke in a home where oxygen is used, even if it is turned off.
Oxygen can be explosive and makes fire burn hotter and faster.
Be alert - don’t smoke in bed! If you are sleepy, have been drinking, or have taken medicine that makes you drowsy, put your cigarette out first.
Electrical and Appliance Safety
Frayed wires can cause fires.
Replace all worn, old or damaged appliance cords immediately and do not run cords under rugs or furniture.
If an appliance has a three-prong plug, use it only in a three-slot outlet.
Never force it to fit into a two-slot outlet or extension cord.
We are ready to help when you have fire damage
Some advices to get prepared for a hurricane
8/23/2022 (Permalink)
Storm
Is your commercial enterprise hurricane-ready?
Here are some resources to assist businesses with hurricane preparation:
- Make a backup of your important computer data and save it elsewhere.
- Make a thorough inventory of your company and take lots of photos.
- A communication plan for employees should be in place, and it should include a specific out-of-town phone line where employees can check in and get corporate information. Make sure employee emergency contact information is up to current.
Establish storm procedures so that staff members are aware of what to do and post them beforehand.
Defend electrical devices from potential water damage. - In case additional funds are required after the storm, have extra cash and blank checks on hand.
- If your facility is damaged, establish a temporary location for business operations.
- Choose a safe space for workers who must stay in the building.
- Give employees enough time to safeguard their homes and families. Protect the structure and any goods you can't bring into construction sites.
Licensed contractors must protect their job locations in the case of a tropical storm warning or hurricane watch. Objects that could be dangerous must be secured or removed.
Dial Us Now! If you need any help!
SERVPRO is always here to help with storm water damage
8/23/2022 (Permalink)
Many people believe that the hurricane and storm season has little bearing on their life, but those who have really experienced them can speak to the enormous devastation a tropical cyclone causes. If you don't use qualified service providers to repair your property for you, it could be stressful and expensive.
Call SERVPRO to protect your home from the stresses of tropical stormwater damage. We have a group of experts on staff that are skilled at repairing homes after a storm. We have cutting-edge tools on hand and are prepared to renovate your home.
We are equipped to address any damage caused by tropical storms, including wind and flood damage. The phases of our restoration process are as follows:
- The job site is inspected and assessed as part of emergency response.
- Demolition, water removal, and drying are followed by daily inspections to assess the job's progress.
- Cleaning and sanitising
- Deodorisation
- Replacing damaged materials
Non-penetrative moisture metres can be used by our SERVPRO professionals to find moisture. We have self-priming trash pumps that we can utilise to remove water from your home. These pumps are frequently used when only a small lift is needed or when horizontal water transfer is necessary. For instance, self-priming trash pumps can be used to remove water from one-story buildings in the wake of a cyclone.
In order to prevent a mould infestation, our SERVPRO staff can also employ air-moving and dehumidifying equipment to eliminate all moisture from your house.
We can choose options that are advantageous for our customers because of our understanding of construction and drying. Additionally, we may clean your home and remove any damaged insulation, flooring, or drywall.
SERVPRO conducts confirmatory tests to make sure the home and any impacted things are restored to their original state before enabling clients to move back in.
We may ask you to sign a Certificate of Satisfaction once we conduct a walkthrough.
SERVPRO Can help facing Mold damages
8/23/2022 (Permalink)
Mold
Mold removal in a house or apartment
Even without storm damage, a broken appliance, or a leak, mould damage can be an issue in a house.
The humid circumstances that are frequently prevalent in our town, whether or not there is severe weather, can promote the growth of this family of fungi within your home. Mold needs moisture and organic materials to flourish.
If you find mould development in your house, call SERVPRO for a professional assessment and effective remediation strategy to get rid of the musty smells and the damage these organisms can do to the building materials, furnishings, and personal items in your home.
As water is nearly always present and needs to be evacuated from surfaces and the air itself to prevent spores from blossoming into full-blown outbreaks, improperly ventilated bathrooms, laundry rooms, or kitchens can foster mould growth. Mold damage is frequently brought on by interior humidity levels that are over 60%. Many fungal strains can develop without standing water or saturated substrates. Often, the culprits are your air conditioners or dehumidifiers, which combine standing water concentrations and moist air in a double dose to create an ideal habitat for microbial feeding frenzy. Underperforming HVAC systems or merely transferring the contaminated air might have a substantial negative impact on the issue. Mold colonies that are continually recycled throughout your home cause contaminations to grow.
SERVPRO specialists may do a comprehensive inspection of your house or condo and systems to determine the causes when mould damage destroys your quality of life. To address the issue, a strategy that considers all probable causes is required. Based on their expertise, our team of professionals can address and eliminate the factors in your house that promote development. We are able to isolate, reduce, eradicate, and contain the mould development issues in your house using the most recent industry technologies and regulations created by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). You can rely on us to be upfront about any work that may require a third party, typically before or after a mould inspection in areas with significant mould growths. If the mould has a firm grip inside the ductwork, our expert specialists can limit spore circulation by safely and effectively cleaning the system.
We will suggest a multi-tiered approach to your mould damage problems, utilising all of the techniques and resources at our disposal to lower the humidity levels and remove water sources to stop mould from proliferating once more.