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.

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.

Getting your business ready for a heavy storm!

8/23/2022 (Permalink)

How to Prepare Your Company for a Major Storm
At any time, a big rainfall can strike. When the building is packed of people, lightning and thunder may strike outside. Thunderstorms are very hazardous. Winds of 58 miles per hour or 1-inch hail are common in this type of storm. It can result in a range of problems, including:

Outages of electricity
Flooding in a flash
The lightning strikes.

As a result, it is critical to prepare your property prior to the arrival of severe weather. This will ensure the safety of your personnel and reduce the demand for storm cleanup services. Here are a few pointers to help you prepare for the heavy rain, lightning, and high winds that are expected.

Keep yourself up to date

An emergency alert system should be in place in your community. Make sure you have permission to use this system. You should also be aware of the meanings of the various notifications. When severe weather is expected in a certain area, a severe thunderstorm watch is issued. Meanwhile, a severe thunderstorm warning means that radar or storm spotters have detected dangerous conditions in the area.

Protect Your Assets

Any important equipment you put outside your building can be blown away by the wind that often comes with a big downpour. Before the terrible weather approaches, make sure you bring these items inside.
Shrubs and tree limbs can also be blown to the ground or into windows by the wind. Trim the plants regularly and remove any damaged portions to keep them vigorous and healthy.

Take precautions.

Your employees may be locked inside during the worst stages of the storm if severe weather strikes during office hours. As a result, you should keep an emergency kit on the premises. The kit should include materials that personnel can utilise if they are trapped inside the facility for several hours or days. A first-aid kit should also be readily available on site.

A heavy downpour can inflict significant wind and flood damage to your home. You can keep your staff safe and reduce the damage to your property by being proactive.

Get ready to a Storm kit

8/23/2022 (Permalink)

Cold weather, snow, and ice storms may wreak havoc on your house or company. When tragedies like these hit, you must act quickly to prevent more damage to your property. SERVPRO is always willing to assist, and we'd like to offer some advice on how to put together a basic emergency kit in case the unexpected occurs.

One thing that 2021 has taught us is to always be prepared in a year full of surprises. Here are a few essentials to include in your Emergency Storm Kit.

The following items should be included in a basic emergency supplies kit:

-Water (one gallon per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation)
- Food  (at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food)
-A battery-operated or hand-crank radio, as well as a NOAA weather radio - Weather Tone alarm on the radio
-Flashlight
-Kit for first aid
-Extra batteries are available.
-A whistle (to signal for help)
-Mask to protect against dust (to help filter contaminated air)
-Duct tape and plastic sheeting (to shelter in place)
-Garbage bags, moist towelettes, and plastic ties (for personal sanitation)
-pliers or a wrench (to turn off utilities)
-Can opener (manual) (for food)
-Maps of the area
-Chargers and a backup battery are included with the phone.

PREPARING FOR HURRICANE SEASON BEFORE TRAVELING

5/2/2022 (Permalink)

While vacations are a time for relaxation, an unexpected storm can ruin an otherwise amazing trip. It is important to remain mindful of the following hurricane safety tips:

Check the news: Check the weather of your travel destination up to a week in advance to avoid any surprise downpours. 

Obtain Hurricane Travel Insurance: Hurricane insurance can cover travel delays as a result of poor weather conditions and help you cancel your trip or leave early. 

Make paper copy of documents: In the event internet or digital devices are unavailable, printed copies of your travel insurance, itinerary, key phone numbers, and your passport will ensure you have reliable back-ups.

Identify a point of contact: Select an area to find your family or travel members in case cell phone coverage becomes unavailable.

Identify Evacuation Routes: Ask your hotel staff about emergency exit routes and safety procedures.

SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach/Lakewood wishes you a safe and hurricane free vacation! If you're in need of any assistance related to storm damage, we are here to help!

Storm Damage Cleanup

1/31/2022 (Permalink)

Winter storms can have a crippling effect on the inhabitants of a community. Whatever the season; whatever the disaster; you must be prepared. Evacuate if necessary and brace yourself. Once the storm hits there’s not much you can do. Hopefully, you and your loved ones have made it out with minimal injuries. Now, you must prepare for storm damage cleanup.

Winter storm damage

Winter can bring on some frigid weather which can freeze pipes and cause them to burst. The result can be extensive water damage. Outdoor pipes most likely to freeze can be outdoor hose bibs, swimming pool/hot tub supply lines and water sprinkler lines. Interior pipes in unheated or inadequately heated areas include those in basements, crawl spaces, attics and garages. Make sure to look at these when inspecting your home. Roof damage is also an issue since snow and ice can damage gutters and roofs.

Getting help with storm damage cleanup

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today

Warm Weather And Good Times Outdoors, What About Lightning?

8/20/2021 (Permalink)

Lightning is hotter than the surface of the sun, it can reach temperatures around 50,000 degrees F. That is according to the National Weather Service. While we still have some good outdoor weather ahead, use caution.

Here are some outdoor activity guidance from The National Weather Service:

–Coach of Outdoor Sports Team
Your little league team has an evening game at the local recreational park. The weather forecast calls for partly cloudy skies, with a chance of thunderstorms by early evening. When you arrive at the park, you notice the only safe buildings are the restrooms.

Shortly after sunset, the sky gets cloudy and you see bright flashes in the sky. What should you do? Get everyone into vehicles or the restrooms. Do NOT stay in the dugouts; they are not safe during lightning activity. Once in a safe place, wait 30 minutes after the last rumble of thunder before resuming play.

–At the Beach or Lake

Your family plans to go to the beach today. The weather forecast calls for a nice morning followed by a 30 percent chance of afternoon thunderstorms. When you get to the beach, you see that the only nearby structures are open-sided picnic shelters.

The parking lot is a 5 minute walk from the beach. By early afternoon skies are darkening and hear distant thunder. What should you do? Go to your car! Do NOT seek shelter under the beach picnic shelters. Wait 30 minutes until after the last rumble of thunder before going back to the beach.

Don't Get Carried Away By Flooding

8/20/2021 (Permalink)

When looking for travel tips, you might have come across advice to avoid driving on a flooded path. This is more than just good advice; it will save your life and avoid expensive harm to your car. Here are some of the reasons not to drive on flooded highways.

Swept Away

Most of the flood deaths that occur in cars happen because the car driver misconstrued the depth of the floodwater. However, even a little bit of water can cause major problems on a flooded street. Here's what can happen at specific depths of water:

• 6 inches: Water up to 6 inches deep will cause your tires to lose traction on the ground. Your vehicle will skid when this happens. Although you're probably not drowning in this case, losing control of the vehicle may cause you to crash.
• 12 inches: a foot of water will cause small and medium-sized vehicles to float. If the water moves quickly, the vehicle can be swept away by the current—with you still inside.
• 24 inches: Even big pickups and SUVs can be washed away by two feet of water on a flooded street. Worse still, as the vehicle is being carried along, it may tip over, trapping you inside with the floodwater already rising.

Stranded at S(treet)ea 

In most cars, the engine air intake is near the edge. Driving on flooded roads can lead to the sucking of water from the air intake into the engine, which can cause serious damage. Floodwater also poses a risk to the electrical components of your car, which may cause you to stall and stall in the middle of the flood. And if you and your car make it safely across the floodwaters, your vehicle will still have water damage that is likely to be costly to repair later.

When there is a flood around the city, prepare alternative routes and stay up to date with changing weather conditions. In general, it is best to stop driving on flooded roads if at all necessary.

Storm Season Requires Preparation

8/20/2021 (Permalink)

Spring and Summer bring sunshine and warmer weather to your area, but also can mean thunderstorms.

According to Ready now it is important to know the difference between a thunderstorm WATCH and a thunderstorm WARNING. A severe thunderstorm WATCH means a severe thunderstorm (damaging winds of 58 miles per hour or more, or hail three-fourths of an inch in diameter or greater) is likely to develop. A severe thunderstorm WARNING means that a severe thunderstorm has been sighted or indicated by weather radar.

In your area severe storms can cause downed trees/power lines, flash flooding, lightning-related damage, tornado damage, hail and massive amount of debris on roads.

Ready now recommends having these items organized before a storm strikes:

Water

One gallon of water per person, per day, for at least three days, to be used for drinking and sanitation

Food

At least a three-day supply of non-perishable food for each member of your family (while non-perishables do last for a long time, you should be regularly checking these supplies to make sure that nothing in your kit is expired)

Battery, solar powered, or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for each

Flashlight and extra batteries

A whistle to signal for help

Dust mask to help filter contaminated air

Plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place

Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation

Fire extinguisher

Extra cell phone with batteries/chargers
First aid kit

Prescription medications and eyewear

Emergency reference material such as first aid book

Have COVID-19 supplies stocked: cloth masks or face coverings, hand sanitizer, disinfectant cleaning supplies, sanitizing wipes, and soap.

Important documents such as: insurance policies, copy of driver’s license, Social Security card, birth certificate, and bank account records stored in a watertight container

Cash and change

Copies of local maps

A list of emergency contacts with phone numbers

For Your Vehicle

Jumper cables

First aid kit and necessary medications in case you are away from home for a prolonged period of time (this should include contact lens solution, extra cases, and/or glasses)

Cat litter or sand for better tire traction

Shovel

Ice scraper

Warm clothes, gloves, hat, sturdy boots, jacket and an extra change of clothes

Rain poncho and umbrella

Blankets or sleeping bags

Road flares or reflective triangles

Baby food/formula, wipes, and diapers if you have an infant

A full tank of gas

Bright colored cloth to use as a flag

Here are a few Flood Facts provided by FEMA

8/20/2021 (Permalink)

Here are a few Flood Facts provided by FEMA:

Flash floods can bring walls of water from 10 to 20 feet high.

Flooding can be caused by spring thawing (snow and frozen grounds melting in the spring), heavy rains, snow melt runoffs, flash floods, and mudflows.

Floods are the most widespread natural disaster aside from wildfires.

A 2,000 square foot home undergoing 12 feet of water damage could cost more than $50,000 to repair.

Here are a few supplies you need to prepare for a flood:

Stock up on First Aid items

Non-perishable foods

Three gallons of water per person for 3 days

Battery operated radio for weather reports

Extra batteries

Personal hygiene necessities

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including all holidays.

Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more. SERVPRO arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can jeopardize your health and safety, and cause severe damage to your home’s structure. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.

What To Expect After a Commercial Roof Fire?

4/30/2021 (Permalink)

Roof damage can be tricky to recognize immediately after a fire, especially if your attention has been drawn toward the damage inside your commercial property and the people who were on your property during the fire.

3 Steps Professionals Take Right Away

However, when fire cleanup and repair professionals show up to assess your property, there are some steps they'll take right away:

• Secure your property
• The tarp over any holes on the roof
• Provide their initial assessment

It's best to assume that you'll need roof repair. If the heat and flames of the fire didn't directly damage the roofing materials, firefighters may have broken holes in the roof as part of their efforts to save the rest of the building.

Why Does Tarping Matter?

Some of the most important tasks involved in fire cleanup are included in tarp services. When technicians cover the holes in the roof, they protect the inside of your property from rain or snow, windblown debris, animals, and insects. This work may also involve preventing others from entering your building without permission. This is a good way to avoid vandalism and other secondary damages.

What Should You Do After the Fire?

There are several other dos and don'ts you should also understand when your building has been damaged by fire:

• Do contact your insurance company as soon as possible. Provide these professionals with your insurance policy and account information.
• Do keep records of all conversations, receipts, and documents related to the fire, the resulting damage, and your insurance claim.
• Don't try to complete roof repair on your own. There are many safety hazards, and you could cause further damage, as well as making it more difficult for the insurance adjuster to establish the amount of damage.
• Don't enter the building until the fire department has completed all necessary safety inspections.
  

The property has been damaged by a fire, you'll need to rely on experienced fire cleanup professionals to help you get your building back into its pre-fire condition. Make sure you're prepared before a fire breaks out, so you can react confidently during an emergency.

FLOOD DAMAGE - IT CAN OCCUR ANYWHERE!

1/14/2021 (Permalink)

Throughout the US, floods remain one of the most widespread and common natural disasters that affect us. No matter where you’re located, in the mountains, along the coast, in the city, close to a river, or out in the desert, you can still be impacted by a flood.

Here are some important safety tips to keep in mind:

• Even 6 inches of quickly moving water can sweep you off your feet so steer clear of floodwaters. If you find yourself in an area where the water reaches above your ankles, find another path, walk another way.
• When driving, the same rules apply: If you approach a flooded road, turn around and go another way. Most vehicles can be carried away by less than 2 feet of moving water. If caught by rising waters and the situation warrants it, get out of your car quickly and move to higher ground.
• Protect children from the dangers and diseases carried by contaminated floodwaters. What might look like a fun activity to them could prove deadly.

SERVPRO of Downtown Long Beach / Signal Hill has the experience and knowledge to assist you when a flood strikes your home or business. No matter the size, floods have the potential to cause extensive damage to property when not treated quickly and properly and the cleanup can be an overwhelming task.

We’re here 24/7 to help. Contact us at 562-591-1788

STORM/HURRICANE SEASON WHERE YOU'RE GOING? BE PREPARED!

1/14/2021 (Permalink)

Headed for a vacation destination that’s prone to Storms and Hurricanes?!

Vacations are a time for relaxation but what if an emergency strikes? It’s hurricane season and here at SERVPRO of Downtown Long Beach/Signal Hill, we are always looking out for our customers' safety and well-being. We've put together some tips for what to do if a hurricane strikes on your vacation and how to prep before you leave.

Before the trip:

• Check the local news:

While this might seem like an obvious tip it is very important to be up to date with the local weather at your vacation location. We recommend checking a week in advance to keep yourself up to date so there are no weather surprises while away!

• Get Hurricane Travel Insurance

When it comes to traveling, travel insurance is very important but specifically hurricane travel insurance during hurricane season is helpful. They’ll cover delays due to weather, accommodation cancelations, and going home early coverage, etc.

• Make a paper copy of documents

It is always important to make copies of your documents before you travel just in case something happens to them, where it be theft or a storm damages them! Print and bring copies of your travel insurance, itinerary, and key phone numbers as well as your passport (if necessary).

During hurricane:

• Identify a point of contact

It can be difficult to find cell service while on vacation so it is important to know where you can go to get in contact with others.

• Identify Evacuation Routes

Once onsite at your vacation, it is important to identify what the proper evacuation routes are to get to safety. Ask your hotel, landlord, or locals what those might be.

• Avoid any electrical wiring if you are wet or if the wiring is wet.

This will keep you from being electrocuted by any faulty wiring.

SERVPRO of Downtown Long Beach/Signal Hill wishes you a safe and hurricane-free vacation! We hope these tips have provided you the proper information to being ready and handling a hurricane emergency while on vacation. If you're in need of any assistance SERVPRO of Downtown Long Beach/Signal Hill is here to help. Call us at 562-591-1788

Flood damage can occur anywhere!

10/1/2020 (Permalink)

Flood and water damage occur in homes and businesses more often than you may realize. This type of damage can result from a storm or hurricane damaging your area. Regardless of where you’re located, flood water can reach you, whether you live in the mountains, the beach, or even the desert.

It is important to remain mindful of the following safety tips:

• Avoid floodwaters if possible. If you are caught in an area where the water reaches above your ankles, find another path or walk another way.
• If you reach a flooded road when driving, find a way around or follow the directions of safety personnel. Many vehicles can be carried away by as little as 2 feet of moving water!
• Be cautious of consuming or bathing in water found outside since disease can be carried by contaminated floodwaters.

Floods have the potential to cause noticeable damage to property when not treated quickly, and cleanup can be an overwhelming task. SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach/Lakewood has the experience and knowledge to assist you when a storm looms over your home or business. We’re here to help 24/7.

PREPARING FOR HURRICANE SEASON BEFORE TRAVELING

8/1/2020 (Permalink)

While vacations are a time for relaxation, an unexpected storm can ruin an otherwise amazing trip. It is important to remain mindful of the following hurricane safety tips:

Check the news: Check the weather of your travel destination up to a week in advance to avoid any surprise downpours. 

Obtain Hurricane Travel Insurance: Hurricane insurance can cover travel delays as a result of poor weather conditions and help you cancel your trip or leave early. 

Make paper copy of documents: In the event internet or digital devices are unavailable, printed copies of your travel insurance, itinerary, key phone numbers, and your passport will ensure you have reliable back-ups.

Identify a point of contact: Select an area to find your family or travel members in case cell phone coverage becomes unavailable.

Identify Evacuation Routes: Ask your hotel staff about emergency exit routes and safety procedures.

SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach/Lakewood wishes you a safe and hurricane free vacation! If you're in need of any assistance related to storm damage, we are here to help!

Flood damage can occur anywhere!

8/1/2020 (Permalink)

Flood and water damage occur in homes and businesses more often than you may realize. This type of damage can result from a storm or hurricane damaging your area. Regardless of where you’re located, flood water can reach you, whether you live in the mountains, the beach, or even the desert.

It is important to remain mindful of the following safety tips:

• Avoid floodwaters if possible. If you are caught in an area where water reaches above your ankles, find another path or walk another way.
• If you reach a flooded road when driving, find a way around or follow the directions of safety personnel. Many vehicles can be carried away by as little as 2 feet of moving water!
• Be cautious of consuming or bathing in water found outside since disease can be carried by contaminated floodwaters.

Floods have the potential to cause noticeable damage to property when not treated quickly, and cleanup can be an overwhelming task. SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach/Lakewood has the experience and knowledge to assist you when a storm looms over your home or business. We’re here to help 24/7.

Steps to Recover Quickly From a Flood With Safety in Mind | SERVPRO® of Santa Clarita Valley

5/1/2020 (Permalink)

Flooding is now a more common occurrence than it ever has been, which has spurred many people to think through exactly what their recovery strategy would be.

While recovering from a flood quickly is everyone’s top focus, it is important to understand that staying safe also plays a vital role in the recovery efforts. We have detailed the steps below to help you know exactly how to recover from a flood while remaining safe in the process

Quick Recovery Steps to Take After a Flood

Avoid further safety hazards. It is a natural reaction to want to handle the damage as quickly as possible, prompting many individuals to be antsy to return to their homes. While this is understandable, it is important to check with local officials in your area to make sure the impacted regions are safe to inhabit once more.

Air out the home. While the damage that rising waters cause is devastating enough, those who have experienced flood damage are also at high risk for mold development in the impacted areas. Mold thrives in damp areas with little airflow, so opening your home’s doors and windows can cut down significantly on its growth, as well as keep the air healthier to breathe as you work to clean up.

Document the damages. While many people will react to seeing the damage by immediately taking action, make sure you are gathering adequate documentation before you jump in. Create a detailed inventory list of everything that has been impacted by the flood and take photographic evidence to back up what you include. Not only is this helpful for your own records, but if you are eligible to file an insurance claim, it will come in handy through that process as well.

Contact your restoration and insurance companies right away. If you have already purchased flood insurance, getting in touch with your insurance company right away will help direct you toward the next steps for filing a claim. Additionally, prioritize contacting your flood restoration company in the aftermath. Letting moisture sit can cause further damages to your home, so getting the professionals in quickly is always advised.

If your home has been damaged in a flood, we are here for you. You can contact us ²⁴⁄₇ to receive a quick response and set the restoration process in motion.

Tips to avoid Hurricanes

4/2/2020 (Permalink)

Headed for a vacation destination that’s prone to Storms and Hurricanes?!

Vacations are a time for relaxation but what if an emergency strikes? It’s storm and hurricane season in some destinations and here at SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood, we are always looking out for our customers' safety and well-being. We've put together some tips for what to do if a hurricane strikes on your vacation and how to prep before you leave.

Before the trip:

• Check the local news:

While this might seem like an obvious tip it is very important to be up to date with the local weather at your vacation location. We recommend checking a week in advance to keep yourself up to date so there are no weather surprises while away!

• Get Hurricane Travel Insurance

When it comes to traveling, travel insurance is very important but specifically hurricane travel insurance during hurricane season is helpful. They’ll cover delays due to weather, accommodation cancelations, and going home early coverage, etc.

• Make a paper copy of documents

It is always important to make copies of your documents before you travel just incase something happens to them, where it be theft or a storm damages them! Print and bring copies of your travel insurance, itinerary and key phone numbers as well as your passport (if necessary).

 During hurricane:

• Identify a point of contact

It can be difficult to find cell service while on vacation so it is important to know where you can go to get in contact with others.

• Identify Evacuation Routes

Once onsite at your vacation, it is important to identify what the proper evacuation routes are to get to safety. Ask your hotel, landlord, or locals what those might be.

• Avoid any electrical wiring if you are wet or if the wiring is wet.

This will keep you from being electrocuted by any faulty wiring.

SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood wishes you a safe and hurricane-free vacation! We hope these tips have provided you the proper information to being ready and handling a hurricane emergency while on vacation. If you're in need of any assistance SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood is here to help. Call us at 562-420-0030

No matter where you're located we are always ready!

4/2/2020 (Permalink)

All through the US, floods stay one of the most boundless and normal catastrophic events that influence us. Regardless of where you're situated, in the mountains, along the coast, in the city, near a waterway or out in the desert, you can even now be affected by a flood. Here are some significant wellbeing tips to remember:

Indeed, even 6 creeps of rapidly moving water can deeply inspire you so avoid floodwaters. On the off chance that you end up in a territory where the water comes to over your lower legs, discover another way, walk another way.

When driving, similar principles apply: If you approach an overwhelmed street, pivot and go another way. Most vehicles can be diverted by under 2 feet of moving water. Whenever got by rising waters and the circumstance warrants it, escape your vehicle rapidly and move to higher ground.

Shield youngsters from the threats and illnesses conveyed by sullied floodwaters. What may resemble an enjoyment movement to them could demonstrate destructively.

SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood has the experience and information to help you when a flood strikes your home or business. Regardless of the size, floods can possibly make broad harm property when not treated rapidly and appropriately and the cleanup can be a mind-boggling task. We're here day in and day out to help. Get in touch with us at 562-420-0030.

FLOOD DAMAGE CAN OCCUR ANYWHERE

10/1/2019 (Permalink)

Flood and water damage occur in homes and businesses more often than you may realize. This type of damage can result from a storm or hurricane damaging your area. Regardless of where you’re located, flood water can reach you, whether you live in the mountains, the beach, or even the desert.

It is important to remain mindful of the following safety tips:

• Avoid floodwaters if possible. If you are caught in an area where water reaches above your ankles, find another path or walk another way.
• If you reach a flooded road when driving, find a way around or follow the directions of safety personnel. Many vehicles can be carried away by as little as 2 feet of moving water!
• Be cautious of consuming or bathing in water found outside since disease can be carried by contaminated floodwaters.

Floods have the potential to cause noticeable damage to property when not treated quickly, and cleanup can be an overwhelming task. SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach/Lakewood has the experience and knowledge to assist you when a storm looms over your home or business. We’re here to help 24/7.

PREPARING FOR HURRICANE SEASON BEFORE TRAVELING

10/1/2019 (Permalink)

While vacations are a time for relaxation, an unexpected storm can ruin an otherwise amazing trip. It is important to remain mindful of the following hurricane safety tips:

Check the news: Check the weather of your travel destination up to a week in advance to avoid any surprise downpours. 

Obtain Hurricane Travel Insurance: Hurricane insurance can cover travel delays as a result of poor weather conditions and help you cancel your trip or leave early. 

Make paper copy of documents: In the event internet or digital devices are unavailable, printed copies of your travel insurance, itinerary, key phone numbers, and your passport will ensure you have reliable back-ups.

Identify a point of contact: Select an area to find your family or travel members in case cell phone coverage becomes unavailable.

Identify Evacuation Routes: Ask your hotel staff about emergency exit routes and safety procedures.

SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach/Lakewood wishes you a safe and hurricane free vacation! If you're in need of any assistance related to storm damage, we are here to help!

ARE YOU PREPARED FOR A STORM?

10/1/2019 (Permalink)

Buildings are not always constructed to handle storm damage. After a hurricane, many components of your home or business may require replacement. If you experience destruction caused by strong elements during a storm, we’re here to help!

A hurricane can bring about black water, sewage water containing bacteria, mold, and viruses. Once black water permeates through the floor, walls, or ceiling, replacement of contaminated areas is recommended. Sanding down floorboards, for example, is no longer feasible once the top layer is heavily saturated.

Additionally, strong winds can knock over trees or bring debris into your home. A single branch from a large tree could have enough weight to destroy a roof. As a result, runoff of torrential rains may begin to flow into your Long Beach home or business. In this situation, SERVPRO technicians can use penetrating moisture meters and special equipment to recommend the best course of action based on the amount of damage incurred.

If you find yourself in a situation too big to handle, call SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach/Lakewood for immediate and professional service.

IMPORTANT STORM SAFETY TIPS

4/20/2019 (Permalink)

Where were you the last time you encountered a heavy storm? The key to storm and lightning safety is to avoid being in the wrong place at the wrong time. If you see a storm approaching on the horizon, remain indoors in case of a lightning strike. Lightning will follow the available paths to ground, including the electrical wiring, plumbing, or telephone lines. Try to avoid structures like bus shelters, outhouses, or any small non-metal structure that do not provide any lightning protection.

The fact that houses and buildings have an abundance of grounding paths makes them generally safe lightning shelters, but to ensure maximum safety during a storm:

• Don't use any wired appliance or device. Wireless appliances are safe to use.
• Stay away from water pipes and faucets. (No baths, showers, etc.)
• Don't stand on a basement floor or patio slab, or anywhere where standing water or excessive moisture is present. These areas are 'ground current' danger zones.
• Stay away from walls where electrical wiring is present.

If you find yourself on the road during a storm, you are safest in an enclosed, metal vehicle. The car should ideally have a hard top with its windows rolled up. If your car is struck by lightning, the current will flow through the metal body of the vehicle to the ground.

Keep the following safety tips in mind if you’re driving through a storm:

• If there is no shelter around and you must stay on the road, pull over, turn off your engine, and turn on your hazard lights while you wait out the storm.
• Do not touch anything metal inside of your car. This includes the radio, cell phone chargers, mobile GPS devices, door handles, and the steering wheel.
• If you’re on a motorcycle or a bicycle, do not seek shelter underneath trees. While trees may provide cover from the rain, this will greatly increase your risk of being struck by lightning.

If you experience property loss due to a storm, SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach / Lakewood is here to help with restoration and repair. We can clear debris, help reverse water damage, and get you back on your feet. Don’t be caught off guard; call us any day, morning or night.

REMAINING SAFE DURING FLOODS AND SEVERE WEATHER

4/8/2019 (Permalink)

Did you know a flood can occur in any one of the 50 United States? Even California is susceptible to flooding, in addition to harsh winds and mudslides. Therefore, it is important to be prepared for these emergency situations. Here we outline important ways to prepare for flooding and encourage you to think about your plan for harsh weather conditions.

According to the National Flood Insurance Program, follow these tips to stay safe during a flood:

• Seek higher grounds and avoid all areas that are at a higher risk of flooding
• If your home starts flooding, go to your top floor of your home, attic, or roof
• Don’t try walking across flooded streams or flooded roadways
• Turn off your main power and close your main gas valve
• Turn on and listen to a battery-powered radio for updated storm and flood information
• If you’ve touched floodwaters, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water
• It’s important that you have an emergency supply kit in your home and vehicle in case of an emergency. You should also ensure you have you and your family’s medication pre-loaded with your emergency supply kit.

If your home is affected by flood water, keep the following tips in mind:

• Clear any debris from your gutters and/or downspouts
• Maintain your sump pump and install a battery backup in the case of a power outage
• Anchor fuel tanks
• Move valuables to a safe place
• Keep electrical components and appliances at least 12 inches above your house’s floor elevation

When driving through a storm, keep in mind most commuter vehicles were not designed to drive through flood water. Doing so can prevent airflow to your vehicle and lock up the engine, placing you in an even worse situation. Not only is it dangerous for you and your vehicle, but other people on the road as well.

Hopefully, with the helpful tips above, you can better prepare yourself and your home for severe weather. Even with proper planning, however, situations can go awry. SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach/Lakewood is here to help with damage caused by a storm or flooding. We're available day or night, 24/7.

HOW TO PROTECT YOUR HOME FROM SEVERE WINDS

2/25/2019 (Permalink)

Severe weather such as storms or hurricanes can bring strong winds traveling over 100 miles per hour. Even winds traveling 25 miles per hour have been shown to cause damage to homes and other property. Take note of the following points to learn about how you can prepare for the possibility of damaging winds.

• Secure outdoor furniture and decorations, or store in enclosed areas.
• Anchor and secure outdoor structures such as freestanding sheds or kennels to sturdy foundations.
• Inspect and repair loose roof shingles, especially if you own an older home or have older roofing materials. Wind damage begins small by prying up a corner, but each gust of wind comes closer to removing the entire shingle and increases risk to surrounding roofing materials. Additionally, anchor your home's siding firmly. As with the roof, wind can tear away large areas once a small piece has loosened.
• Remove overhanging branches by trimming and pruning your trees. This will help prevent unexpected debris from falling on your home and keep fire from spreading.
• Reinforce doors with deadbolts and don’t forget to fortify garage doors.
• Designate a safe area in your home or business to take shelter if necessary; a small, interior room with no windows is ideal.
• Store vehicles in a sheltered area and away from trees or objects that may become projectiles in a storm.

In addition to these tips, stay tuned to your local radio station, TV weather report, or internet news site for frequent weather updates. Should you experience damage from high winds or a storm, don't hesitate to call SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach / Lakewood for complete clean up, restoration, and repair.

NO STORM IS TOO LARGE

10/5/2018 (Permalink)

What happens if you find your Long Beach business or home in the middle of a storm? At SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach / Lakewood, we recognize that buildings are not always adequately constructed to handle changing weather conditions. We are here to help with damage caused by wind or water in the event of a storm.

In September of 2015, the remnants of Hurricane Linda brought localized downpours from Santa Barbara to San Diego, California. That month, Los Angeles received 2.39 inches of rain, making it one of the wettest September days since 1877. Many older homes and businesses in L.A. County found themselves overwhelmed and unprepared.

In a storm such as this, torrents of black water, sewage water containing bacteria, mold, and viruses, begin to devastate businesses by first permeating through the floors, walls, and ceiling. Here the water can infiltrate through coating breaks, between seams, and under baseboards. If combined with dirt, mold may even begin to develop. When exposed to this kind of water, complete removal and replacement of contaminated areas is recommended. If restoration is an option, it is important to note how the wooden floor boards begin to expand and warp. Cupping occurs when the edges of floorboards begin to rise and can be sanded down by our SERVPRO technicians. Unfortunately, if the floor boards begin to crown due to an oversaturation of the top layer of wood, sanding is not an option and complete removal might be the best course of action. 

Strong winds can cause adjacent trees to become a hazard to your home. A single branch from a large tree could have enough weight to collapse a roof or create an opening in the side of your house. As a result, runoff of torrential rains may begin to flow into your Long Beach home. In this situation, SERVPRO technicians can use penetrating moisture meters and special equipment to recommend the best course of action based on the amount of damage incurred.

Across the nation, SERVPRO has you covered with the Commercial Large Loss Division and the Disaster Recovery Team. With the ability to mobilize local command centers, along with the resources of more than 1,700 franchises nationwide, no disaster is too big. Every large loss is supervised by a commercial operations manager to help ensure seamless communication and timely mitigation. If you find yourself in a situation too big to handle, call SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach / Lakewood for immediate and professional service.

STORM - HURRICANE HARVEY 2017

7/25/2018 (Permalink)

A home in Houston ravaged by Hurricane Harvey

It has been nearly a year since SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood packed up three trucks to make the drive from Long Beach, California to Houston, Texas to help with water damage repair cleanup from Hurricane Harvey.  So, what was it like?   

The drive took three full days due to the heavy equipment we carried with us.  As we came closer to Houston, we had trouble fueling up our diesel truck.  Driving from small town gas station to small town gas station along our route, we were met with signs over the gas nozzles announcing “Out of Fuel.”   The lines were very long, with tempers flaring as locals and long-distance truck drivers competed to fill up their vehicles.   

On Day 3 we made it to Houston in the afternoon.  The traffic was terrible – and this is someone from Los Angeles saying this.  There were many main roads that were still underwater, some looking like rivers as we passed them.  We were fortunate to have a friend with a small apartment in Southeast Houston that we could stay at.  It became our office, kitchen, and sleeping quarters.  A hotel was rented for our technicians who flew in to help with the cleanup work.   

The first couple days in Houston was spent organizing supplies, getting the layout of the city, and generally preparing to get started on the work.  SERVPRO Storm Team started to send us a steady flow of work after about 4 days.  Now, when you are responding to storm damaged homes, there is only so much preparation you can do beforehand.  The real problem solving happens in the field once you have your boots on the ground.   

The first impression I had when we started working was the great resourcefulness of Texans.  Friends and neighbors came to each other’s aid to help pull out damaged furniture, remove drywall, and provide moral support and humor.  Driving down neighborhoods, we saw piles of drywall, clothing, and furniture piled high in front yards.  After a few days of trash not being cleared, the smell started to fill the humid air.  The odor was like what you experience when you clean out a dirty fish tank.  Many cars were unusable due to being flooded, so they sat with steamy windows until the towing companies could come through to take them to the junk yards.  Despite all this, restaurants were open, Home Depot and Loews were open for business, and people went about their days as best they could, patching the city back together.  

The worst houses we worked on were the ones that had been completely swept through with mud.  Imagine a tidal wave of mud floating through the entire downstairs of your home.  The water lines were taller than me on some of the homes.  The mud was everywhere – caked on the floors, on the wall studs behind the drywall, on furniture and clothing.  We would remove the furniture, the affected drywall, complete a pressure washing of all the surfaces while extracting the runoff, and then finish by hand wiping, vacuuming, and mopping all the affected areas at least one or more times.  The final treatment would be an antimicrobial application.   

The customers with the most badly affected homes were the nicest and most grateful.  When they could have been angry at their circumstances, they instead showed gratitude.  Our crews put in long days with a smile fueled by the good attitudes of our customers.  Even the massive number of mosquitoes from all the standing water couldn’t keep us down.   

After a month in Houston, we made the long ride back to Los Angeles.  The home office ran smoothly in our absence, thanks to our wonderful General Manager and the crews that stayed behind.  It was a great adventure.  We hoped to have some much-needed downtime when we got back, but Mother Nature had other plans.  We returned home to blazing wildfires in Los Angeles and Orange County.  Off to help with the fire damage cleanup we went because at  SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood we are here to help with fire damage repair and water damage repair both on the road and in our own backyard.   

TSUNAMI: A THREAT TO COASTAL CALIFORNIA

7/13/2018 (Permalink)

Tsunami preparedness is critical in Coastal California

Living in California, and especially along the coast, we’re aware that we can feel the negative impacts from natural threats such as tropical storms and Tsunamis. In fact, just off the coast of California lies the Cascadia fault – which is thought to be up to 30 times more powerful than its more famous neighbor, the San Andreas fault.

SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood is here to assist when your home or business is affected by water, fire and storm damages. We also want to provide you information to help you avoid loss or damage to property, personal belongings or, in the worst case, people. Here are some insights about Tsunamis to keep you informed:

Ready.gov classifies a tsunami as "a series of enormous waves created by an underwater disturbance such as an earthquake, landslide, volcanic eruption, or meteorite."  Tsunamis are also known as seismic sea waves and often mistaken for tidal waves. Areas within a mile of the coast and less than 25 feet about sea level have a greater risk of being hit, according to www.Ready.gov

It is important to be aware of evacuation routes close to the beach and have an emergency plan prepared in case one strikes. It is also very important to understand that the first wave often is not the last and could get larger. Once you have reached higher ground, make sure to stay away from effected sites until officials deem them safe. Flooding is the most common safety hazard but, in the aftermath of the event, landslides, floods, debris, and/or contaminated drinking water can also occur.

If you are traveling anywhere tropical, you may want to check out www.tsunami.gov  in advance to determine if there are advisory warnings, threats, etc. Also, make sure you keep up-to-date on where to go during an emergency evacuation due to tsunami and who to contact once you reach a safe area.

If your property becomes damaged from a tsunami, or from any loss caused by water, fire, storm or biohazard, SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood is here to clean up, restore and, when needed, reconstruct your home or business and get you back to the way things were. Reach us 24/7 at 562-420-0030

STORM DAMAGE: HOW TO BE PREPARED

7/8/2018 (Permalink)

Storm Damage to a Home in Santa Barbara

The devastation caused by storm damage can be far-reaching. The residents and business owners in the Greater Santa Barbara area were victims to the cruel effects of the wild fires, mud slides and extreme water damage occurring this year. SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood was there to help with cleanup, restoration and reconstruction expertise.

When a wild fire has affected an area, it becomes susceptible to landslides due to destabilization of the soil or foundation. When a storm is threatening, preplanning and preparation can assist in lessening storm and water damage.

The most important thing to know is how to recognize when the storm will be approaching and the signs that come along with a landslide. Change in the landscape and sudden cracks in the pavement are major signs that a landslide may occur at your home. Indicators such as pipes bursting, and crackling of trees or light rumbling sounds are signs that the ground beneath is moving.

During a severe storm make sure to stay alert and awake. Move away from the path of a landslide or debris flow as quickly as possible. The danger from a mudflow increases near stream channels and with prolonged heavy rains. Make sure to stay clear of all rivers or open bodies of water. If escape from the landslide is not possible, authorities recommend you curl into a tight ball and cover your neck and head as much as possible.

After a landslide make sure you stay away from affected until advised otherwise. Look for and report broken utility lines and damaged roadways and railways to appropriate authorities. Reporting potential hazards will get the utilities turned off as quickly as possible, preventing further home emergencies. SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood is here to assist you with any storm damages, as well water and fire damages, affecting your home or business. Call us ,24/7, when emergency strikes: 562-420-0030

STORM/HURRICANE SEASON WHERE YOU'RE VACATIONING? BE PREPARED!

7/2/2018 (Permalink)

Affects of a Hurricane

Headed for a vacation destination that’s prone to Storms and Hurricanes?!

Vacations are a time for relaxation but what if an emergency strikes? It’s storm and hurricane season in some destinations and here at SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood we are always looking out for our customers safety and well-being. We've put together some tips for what to do if a hurricane strikes on your vacation and how to prep before you leave.

Before the trip:

• Check the local news:

While this might seem like an obvious tip it is very important to be up to date with the local weather at your vacation location. We recommend checking a week in advance to keep yourself up to date so there are no weather surprises while away!

• Get Hurricane Travel Insurance

When it comes to traveling, travel insurance is very important but specifically hurricane travel insurance during hurricane season is helpful. They’ll cover delays due to weather, accommodation cancelations, and going home early coverage, etc.

• Make paper copy of documents

It is always important to make copies of your documents before you travel just incase something happens to them, where it be theft or a storm damages them! Print and bring copies of your travel insurance, itinerary and key phone numbers as well as your passport (if necessary).

 During hurricane:

• Identify a point of contact

It can be difficult to find cell service while on vacation so it is important to know where you can go to get in contact with others.

• Identify Evacuation Routes

Once onsite at your vacation, it is important to identify what the proper evacuation routes are to get to safety. Ask your hotel, landlord, or locals what those might be.

• Avoid any electrical wiring if you are wet or if the wiring is wet.

This will keep you from being electrocuted by any faulty wiring.

SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood wishes you a safe and hurricane free vacation! We hope these tips have provided you the proper information to being ready and handling a hurricane emergency while on vacation. If you're in need of any assistance SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood is here to help. Call us at 562-420-0030

FLOODS CAN TAKE PLACE ANYWHERE-USE CAUTION!

3/1/2018 (Permalink)

Heavy rains can lead to flood conditions-use caution!

Throughout the US, floods remain one of the most widespread and common natural disasters that affect us. No matter where you’re located, in the mountains, along the coast, in the city, close to a river or out in the desert, you can still be impacted by a flood. Here are some important safety tips to keep in mind:

• Even 6 inches of quickly moving water can sweep you off your feet so steer clear of floodwaters. If you find yourself in an area where water reaches above your ankles, find another path, walk another way.
• When driving, the same rules apply: If you approach a flooded road, turn around and go another way. Most vehicles can be carried away by less than 2 feet of moving water. If caught by rising waters and the situation warrants it, get out of your car quickly and move to higher ground.
• Protect children from the dangers and disease carried by contaminated floodwaters. What might look like a fun activity to them could prove deadly.

SERVPRO of NE Long Beach / Lakewood has the experience and knowledge to assist you when a flood strikes your home or business. No matter the size, floods have the potential to cause extensive damage to property when not treated quickly and properly and the cleanup can be an overwhelming task. We’re here 24/7 to help. Contact us at 562-420-0030.