The Ultimate Guide to Water Damage in University SE

7/23/2024 (Permalink)

Protect Your Property from Water Damage in University SE

Water damage can happen at any time and often without warning, transforming a seemingly minor leak into a severe problem in no time. If you’re a homeowner, renter, or business owner in University SE, you're likely aware of the havoc water damage can wreak. Understanding the potential issues and knowing the best way to respond are essential in preserving your property and preventing lasting damage.

Contact SERVPRO Today for Immediate Assistance “SERVPRO® is here to help you manage and mitigate water damage with fast, professional, and reliable service.”

Understanding Water Damage in University SE

Water damage in University SE can be the result of various causes, ranging from natural disasters like heavy rainfall and flash floods to everyday plumbing failures. Identifying the source of the problem quickly can significantly reduce the extent of the damage.

The Common Causes of Water Damage

Water damage often stems from one or more of the following sources:

• Natural Disasters: Heavy rains, storms, and flash floods can all contribute to water entering your property, potentially causing extensive damage.
• Plumbing Failures: Burst pipes, leaking faucets, and malfunctioning water heaters are typical culprits behind water damage.
• Roof Leaks: Poorly maintained or damaged roofs can allow water to seep through and damage the upper areas of your home.
• Appliance Malfunctions: Dishwashers, washing machines, and refrigerators with worn or faulty seals can leak and flood your living spaces.

Understanding these causes can help you take preventative measures and act swiftly to minimize water damage that could occur within University SE.

The Importance of Immediate Response

Time is of the essence when dealing with water damage in University SE. Delaying the mitigation process can lead to severe consequences. Mold growth, structural weakening, and damage to personal belongings are likely if immediate action isn’t taken.

Steps to Take When You Discover Water Damage

1. Identify and Stop the Source: The first step is to find the source of the water and stop it if possible. Turn off the water main or containing the leak can prevent further damage.
2. Contact Professionals: Reaching out to a professional water mitigation and restoration company like SERVPRO ensures the damage is assessed and managed efficiently.
3. Document the Damage: Take photographs and make a list of damaged items for insurance purposes.
4. Extraction and Drying: Professionals will use advanced equipment to extract standing water and thoroughly dry affected areas.
5. Restoration: Restoring the property back to pre-damage conditions involves repairing or replacing damaged materials and structures.

Why Choose SERVPRO for Water Damage in University SE?

Choosing the right company to handle water damage in University SE is crucial for effective restoration. Here are reasons why SERVPRO is your best choice:

Rapid Response and 24/7 Availability

SERVPRO understands that water damage emergencies can occur at any time, which is why we offer 24/7 availability. Our teams are always ready to respond promptly to mitigate losses and start the restoration process immediately. A rapid response is crucial to preventing additional damage, such as mold growth and structural degradation.

Advanced Technology and Equipment

At SERVPRO, we utilize state-of-the-art equipment and the latest technology to address water damage. This includes:

• Moisture Detection Tools: These tools help us locate hidden moisture in walls and floors to ensure thorough drying.
• Industrial-Grade Dehumidifiers and Air Movers: These devices are used to dry out affected areas efficiently.
• Water Extraction Units: These units remove standing water quickly to minimize damage.

Our advanced technology ensures that we can handle all facets of water damage efficiently and effectively.

Experienced and Certified Professionals

SERVPRO’s professionals are trained and certified in water restoration techniques. They bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to handle even the most severe water damage scenarios. Our team follows a systematic approach to ensure thorough water removal, drying, dehumidification, and restoration of your property to pre-damage condition.

Comprehensive Services

SERVPRO provides comprehensive water damage restoration services, including:

• Emergency Water Extraction
• Structural Drying
• Mold Remediation
• Sanitizing and Deodorization
• Content Restoration
• Reconstruction and Repairs

We offer you a one-stop solution for all water damage issues, ensuring your property is restored quickly and effectively.

Reach Out to SERVPRO for Professional Help “Don’t wait until it’s too late – contact SERVPRO now for expert assistance with water damage in University SE. We're here to help you restore normality as quickly as possible.”

Water damage in University SE doesn’t have to mean the end of your property’s integrity and comfort. With a swift response from SERVPRO, you can mitigate the damage and start the restoration process with confidence, knowing professionals are on your side every step of the way.

SERVPRO of University SE Florida: Your Trusted Partner in Restoration

7/4/2024 (Permalink)

In the picturesque region of University SE Florida, the tranquility is often disrupted by sudden natural calamities like storms and water damage. These unexpected events can create havoc, leaving property owners grappling with extensive damage and loss. In such challenging times, SERVPRO® of University SE Florida emerges as a beacon of hope, offering comprehensive restoration services to help you get back on your feet. Our team of experts is equipped with cutting-edge technology and unparalleled expertise to handle any disaster efficiently.

Quick Response Time for Immediate Relief

Time is of the essence when dealing with storm damage or water damage in University SE Florida. The longer the delay, the worse the destruction can get. This is where SERVPRO of University SE Florida shines, providing rapid response and immediate relief.

• 24/7 Emergency Services: Disasters don’t wait for business hours, and neither do we. Our team is available around the clock to address emergencies promptly.
• Fast and Efficient: Our strategic location in University SE Florida allows for a quick response to storm damage and water damage incidents, minimizing the extent of loss and speeding up the recovery process.
• Advanced Technology: We use state-of-the-art equipment to assess and mitigate damage effectively, ensuring that your property is restored to its prime condition.

Comprehensive Storm Damage Restoration

The impact of storms can be devastating, leading to structural damage, power outages, and more. SERVPRO of University SE Florida specializes in providing thorough storm damage restoration services that cover every aspect of recovery.

• Damage Assessment: Our professionals conduct a detailed inspection to assess the extent of the damage and develop an effective restoration plan.
• Board-Up and Tarping: To prevent further damage, we offer board-up services for broken windows and doors, and tarping for damaged roofs.
• Debris Removal and Cleanup: We remove fallen trees, broken glass, and other debris, ensuring that your property is safe and clean.
• Structural Repairs: From minor fixes to major structural repairs, our skilled technicians handle all aspects of the restoration process.

Expert Water Damage Restoration

Water damage can result from various sources like burst pipes, leaking roofs, or natural floods. SERVPRO of University SE Florida provides reliable and efficient water damage restoration services tailored to your specific needs.

• Water Extraction: Using powerful pumps and vacuums, we remove standing water quickly to prevent further damage.
• Drying and Dehumidification: We employ advanced drying equipment and dehumidifiers to eliminate moisture trapped in walls, floors, and ceilings.
• Mold Remediation: Our team inspects for mold growth and uses specialized techniques to remove and prevent mold, ensuring a healthy indoor environment.
• Content Restoration: We meticulously clean and restore your personal belongings, documents, and furniture to their pre-damage state.

Customer-Centric Approach

At SERVPRO of University SE Florida, our customers are at the heart of everything we do. We pride ourselves on delivering top-notch services with a focus on customer satisfaction.

• Transparent Communication: We keep you informed throughout the restoration process, explaining each step and addressing any concerns you may have.
• Personalized Solutions: Every damage scenario is unique. Our solutions are tailored to your specific situation, ensuring the best possible outcome.
• Insurance Assistance: We assist with the insurance claims process, helping you navigate the complexities and get the compensation you deserve.
• Satisfaction Guaranteed: Our commitment to excellence and attention to detail ensure that your property is restored to your utmost satisfaction.

Preventive Measures for Peace of Mind

Beyond restoration, SERVPRO of University SE Florida also emphasizes the importance of preventive measures to protect your property from future damage.

• Routine Inspections: Regular inspections can identify potential issues before they escalate into major problems.
• Maintenance Tips: We provide valuable tips and guidance on maintaining your property and minimizing the risk of storm and water damage.
• Emergency Plans: We help you develop emergency preparedness plans to ensure that you’re ready to act quickly in the event of a disaster.

Trusted by the University SE Florida Community

SERVPRO of University SE Florida has built a strong reputation as a trusted partner in restoration. Our commitment to excellence, combined with our passion for serving the community, makes us the preferred choice for storm damage and water damage restoration in University SE Florida.

• Local Experts: As members of the University SE Florida community, we understand the unique challenges faced by property owners in this region.
• Proven Track Record: Our history of successful restorations and satisfied customers speaks volumes about our expertise and dedication.
• Community Involvement: We actively participate in local events and initiatives, giving back to the community that has entrusted us with their restoration needs.

In conclusion, when faced with storm damage or water damage in University SE Florida, you can rely on SERVPRO of University SE Florida to provide swift, efficient, and compassionate restoration services. Our team of experts is committed to restoring your property and peace of mind, ensuring that you can move forward with confidence. Contact us today for all your restoration needs.

How to Clean Up After a Sewage Backup

8/4/2023 (Permalink)

Surging sewage overflows from toilets can be a biohazard and require sanitization as well as cleanup. Some cases even call for professional help.

Sewage backups are a disgusting and potentially hazardous problem. If you've ever experienced one, you know how quickly the mess can spread and how difficult it can be to clean up.

If you're faced with a sewage backup, it's important to act quickly to prevent further damage. Here are some tips on how to clean up after a sewage backup:

1. Turn off the water supply. This will help to prevent the sewage from spreading further.
2. Wear gloves and a mask to protect yourself from exposure to bacteria and other contaminants.
3. Remove as much of the sewage as possible with a wet/dry vacuum.
4. Clean the affected area with a mixture of one part bleach to ten parts water.
5. Rinse the area thoroughly with clean water.
6. Dispose of any contaminated materials properly.

If the sewage backup is extensive, it may be necessary to call a professional restoration company. SERVPRO of University, SE Orlando is located right near I-4 near downtown Orlando for the quickest arrival times. Our team of experienced technicians will be able to clean up the mess and restore your home or business to its preloss condition.

Contact us today at (407) 954-8520 to learn more about our sewage backup cleaning services.

Here are some additional tips for cleaning up after a sewage backup:

• Open all the windows and doors to ventilate the area.
• Use fans to help dry the area.
• If there is any mold or mildew, treat it with a commercial mold remover.
• Dispose of all contaminated materials in sealed bags or containers.

By following these tips, you can clean up after a sewage backup and prevent further damage to your home or business.

How to Spot Mold Before It's Too Late

6/29/2023 (Permalink)

A big mistake made by many DIY property owners and even some restoration companies is not properly containing an affected area before mold removal.

Mold is a type of fungus that can grow in moist environments. It is even more commonly found in Florida homes and buildings due to the moist and humid conditions. Still, it is not always easy to identify a real mold issue without experience. 

Here are some of the most common signs of mold growth:

• Visible mold: Mold can appear as black, green, or white fuzzy or slimy growths. It can also appear as discolored spots or stains on walls, ceilings, furniture, and other surfaces.
• Musty odor: Mold has a distinctive musty odor. If you notice a musty smell in your home or business, it could be a sign of mold growth.
• Water damage: Mold needs moisture to grow, so if you see water damage in your home or business, it's a good indication that mold may be present. Water damage can occur from a variety of sources, such as leaks from pipes, roofs, or appliances.
• High humidity: Mold can also grow in humid environments. If the humidity in your home or business is consistently high, it's a good idea to check for signs of mold growth.

If you see any of these signs of mold growth, it's important to take action immediately. The longer you wait, the further damage to your property is likely to occur. Properly removing mold is an extensive process that can get quite costly, which is why many property owners defer to their insurance companies to cover remediation costs.

Here are some steps you can take to remove mold from your home or business:

1. Identify the source of moisture. Once you've found mold, the first step is to identify the source of moisture that's causing it to grow. This could be a leaky pipe, a roof leak, or even just condensation from high humidity. Once you've identified the source of moisture, you can take steps to fix it.
2. Remove the mold. Once you've fixed the source of moisture, you can start to remove the mold. Before doing so, it is recommended to properly contain the affected are so that mold spores released do not travel to other unaffected areas. You can do this yourself if the affected area is non-porous and small. Many online sources will recommend bleach, however, be cautious in doing so as using bleach on certain species of mold can cause a reaction that makes the problem worse. Instead, use organic mold treatments for cleanup.
3. Ventilate the area. Once you've removed the mold, it's important to ventilate the area to prevent it from growing back. Many recommendations simply involve opening windows and doors or using a fan. A more effective method of doing so is to use a HEPA-filtered air scrubber to filter the affected air of mold spores. This should be done while containment is intact as well.
4. Dry the area. Once you've ventilated the area, it's important to dry it completely. This will help to prevent the mold from growing back. You can dry the area by using a dehumidifier or by running fans.

If you're not comfortable removing mold yourself, you can hire a professional mold remediation company. These companies have the experience and expertise to remove mold safely and effectively. They also have the proper equipment to get the job done. Reputable and responsible remediation companies will require a written protocol from a licensed assessor to understand the exact mold issue in your property including, species, areas of the property affected, spore counts in the air, and proper steps for remediating the specific species of mold.

By following these steps, you can remove mold from your home or business and prevent it from coming back.

Here are some additional tips for preventing mold growth:

• Fix any leaks or water damage as soon as possible.
• Increase ventilation in your home or business.
• Use dehumidifiers to control humidity levels.
• Clean and disinfect regularly.
• Store damp items in airtight containers.
• Inspect your home or business for mold growth regularly.

By following these tips, you can help to keep your home or business mold-free.

Understanding Different Types of Fires: Prevention, Extinguishing, and Post-Fire Cleanup

6/23/2023 (Permalink)

This photo of a kitchen after the fire department left is one example of the amount of cleaning that is left to be done.

Navigating the Flames: Types of Fires and Post-Fire Cleanup

Fires can be devastating, causing immense damage to homes and commercial spaces. Understanding the different types of fires, how to extinguish them effectively, and the appropriate cleanup methods afterward are essential for safeguarding lives, minimizing property damage, and ensuring a thorough restoration process. In this article, we will explore the various types of fires that can occur in residential and commercial settings, discuss their extinguishing techniques, and outline the appropriate cleanup procedures post-fire.

1. Class A Fires: Combustible Materials

Class A fires involve ordinary combustible materials such as wood, paper, cloth, and plastics. These fires are commonly caused by electrical malfunctions, smoking materials, or cooking accidents. To extinguish Class A fires, the most effective method is to use water or water-based extinguishers. Proper post-fire cleanup includes removing debris, assessing structural damage, and thoroughly drying the affected areas to prevent mold growth.

2. Class B Fires: Flammable Liquids

Class B fires involve flammable liquids such as gasoline, oil, grease, or solvents. These fires can occur in kitchens, garages, or industrial settings. It is crucial to never use water to extinguish a Class B fire, as it can spread the flames. Instead, flammable liquid fire extinguishers or dry chemical extinguishers should be used. After a Class B fire, proper cleanup involves removing any remaining flammable liquids, ventilating the area, and conducting a thorough inspection for hidden damage.

3. Class C Fires: Electrical Equipment

Class C fires involve energized electrical equipment, such as faulty wiring, appliances, or overloaded circuits. These fires can pose a significant risk due to the potential for electrocution. The first step in extinguishing a Class C fire is to de-energize the electrical source. Using a carbon dioxide (CO2) or dry chemical extinguisher designed for electrical fires is the safest approach. Cleanup after a Class C fire should involve conducting a professional inspection of the electrical system, repairing any damaged wiring, and replacing affected appliances or equipment.

4. Class D Fires: Combustible Metals

Class D fires involve combustible metals, such as magnesium, titanium, or sodium. These fires are often found in laboratories or industrial settings where these metals are present. Specialized dry powder extinguishers specifically designed for the type of metal involved should be used to suppress Class D fires. Cleanup post-fire should be handled by professionals trained in handling hazardous materials to ensure proper disposal and decontamination.

5. Class K Fires: Kitchen Fires

Class K fires occur in commercial kitchens due to grease and cooking oil ignitions. These fires can spread rapidly and cause significant damage if not extinguished correctly. Specialized wet chemical fire extinguishers should be used to smother the flames and cool the burning oil. After a Class K fire, thorough cleaning and degreasing of affected surfaces, ventilation of the area, and inspection of the kitchen hood and exhaust system are necessary.

Conclusion:

Understanding the different types of fires that can occur in homes and commercial spaces is crucial for effective fire prevention, extinguishing techniques, and post-fire cleanup. By knowing the appropriate methods to extinguish each type of fire and implementing proper cleanup procedures, we can mitigate damage, ensure safety, and restore properties to their pre-fire condition. Remember, fire safety is everyone's responsibility, so stay informed, be prepared, and prioritize professional assistance when dealing with the aftermath of a fire.

Understanding the Key Differences between Commercial and Residential Water Damage Restoration

5/31/2023 (Permalink)

One of the key differences in commercial restoration jobs is the potential for an immensely larger scope of damage when compared to residential jobs.

Water damage can wreak havoc on both residential and commercial properties, causing significant disruptions and financial losses. While the goals of water damage restoration remain the same in both settings – to mitigate damage and restore the property to its preloss condition – there are distinct differences between commercial and residential restoration jobs. In this blog post, we will explore these differences and highlight the expertise of SERVPRO of University, SE Orlando, a trusted restoration company with over a decade of experience serving both residential and commercial clients in Central FL.

Scope and Scale:

One of the primary differences between commercial and residential water damage restoration jobs is the scope and scale of the damage. Commercial properties are often larger and more complex than residential properties, with multiple floors, intricate HVAC systems, and a higher volume of occupants. Consequently, the damage caused by water incidents can be more extensive and affect a larger area in commercial buildings. SERVPRO of University, SE Orlando has the expertise and resources to handle the complexities of commercial restoration, including the ability to work on a larger scale and manage intricate systems.

Business Continuity:

Unlike residential properties, commercial properties are often places of business, where interruptions due to water damage can lead to significant financial losses. Therefore, commercial water damage restoration focuses not only on mitigating damage and restoring the property but also on minimizing downtime and ensuring business continuity. SERVPRO of University, SE Orlando understands the urgency in commercial settings and works swiftly to restore the property, enabling businesses to resume operations as soon as possible.

Specialized Equipment and Techniques:

Commercial water damage restoration often requires specialized equipment and techniques that may not be necessary in residential settings. This includes high-capacity water extraction tools, large-scale drying equipment, and specialized dehumidification systems. SERVPRO of University, SE Orlando stays up to date with the latest technology and possesses the necessary equipment to handle both residential and commercial restoration jobs effectively.

Collaboration and Coordination:

Another crucial aspect of commercial water damage restoration is the need for coordination and collaboration with multiple stakeholders, such as property managers, business owners, tenants, and insurance adjusters. SERVPRO of University, SE Orlando has extensive experience working closely with commercial clients, understanding the importance of effective communication, and ensuring all parties are informed throughout the restoration process.

Conclusion:

When it comes to water damage restoration, understanding the key differences between commercial and residential projects is essential. SERVPRO of University, SE Orlando is a trusted restoration company with over a decade of experience serving both residential and commercial clients in Central FL. With their expertise in handling complex commercial restoration jobs, they can effectively mitigate damage, restore properties to their preloss condition, and ensure business continuity. Whether it's a residential or commercial water damage restoration job, SERVPRO of University, SE Orlando is equipped to provide reliable and efficient services. Contact them today to experience their exceptional restoration services for yourself.

Commercial Fire Safety and Prevention Tips

6/13/2022 (Permalink)

Hiring a professional company with experience is the only way to get past the damage that can be done by fire in a commercial space.

A fire can quickly become a horrific event that destroys property, endangers lives, and leaves the occupants with limited resources to rebuild. But fires in commercial spaces can also be a costly business interruption. Fortunately, there are steps that companies can take to reduce the possibility of fire in their space while maintaining productivity and avoiding potential legal liabilities.

Tips for Fire Safety and Prevention in a Commercial Property

A comprehensive fire prevention plan for an office or retail space includes a range of steps, from providing adequate smoking areas and removing combustible items from the premise to testing alarms and forming an evacuation plan. Some states mandate that companies with a certain number of employees have a business fire safety plan. Here are five additional tips for ensuring safety by preventing fires in commercial spaces:

1. Designate an area outside that space for smokers to use. Many fires start through smoking materials or careless disposal of smoking materials. Designate a smoking area away from the building and any flammable material, with adequate drainage to protect the soil from cigarette butts and ashes. Choose an area that is covered to keep people dry in the case of rain or snow.

2. Consider using fire-resistant tape on floors, carpets, and drapes, especially in high-traffic areas. It is inexpensive and may prevent the rapid spread of fire. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper use.

3. Keep matches and lighters out of children’s reach and in a locked drawer. Children have many chances to experiment with fire during their childhood years—either on purpose or unintentionally. The result of a child playing with fire could be an awful tragedy.

4. Install smoke detectors in all commercial spaces, particularly near sleeping areas or areas where paper is burned. Smoke detectors will be your first warning in case of fire, so the fire doesn’t get the upper hand.

5. Keep a fire extinguisher handy. An ABC-rated (A-B-C) fire extinguisher near common areas can offer a better chance of rapid containment of a small fire before it gets out of hand. Fire extinguishers should be regularly tested and maintained to ensure they are ready to use if needed.

Avoiding fire hazards in a commercial space is not difficult but does require some effort. These simple steps can help keep you and your employees safe and protect your investment against the risks of fire. And when the proper measures are taken to prevent fires, occupants can focus on their work instead of worrying about a potentially life-threatening event.
Fire safety is a responsibility that falls to all parties involved in managing a commercial space—from the owners to the manager and staff to any visitors. By following these simple steps, building occupants can have peace of mind knowing that they are doing their part in fire prevention.

Fires can be devastating, and the victims of such tragedies are usually left with limited resources to rebuild. Those in charge of the property must know how to create an effective fire safety plan for their commercial spaces and follow their plan. But even if you follow your plan meticulously, you may still face costly consequences. When a fire takes place, it’s essential to know what happened so you can gather evidence that can help win your case.

Get Your Orlando Business Ready for a Hurricane in 5 Steps

6/13/2022 (Permalink)

If you don’t keep records of your inventory, your insurance provider may cheat you in case of disasters.

Hurricanes in Orlando run from June to November. These hurricanes stem from the Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic Ocean tropical storms. Since Orlando is not a tropical city, the storms aren’t as disparaging. Orlando may never experience category five hurricanes that are the most destructive.

Yet, it does experience category 1 and 2 hurricanes. Storm damages include downed power lines, roof damage, and structural damage to your property. Observe these five precautionary measures to safeguard your Orlando business against storm damage.

Backup Your Company Data

Tornadoes can leave your onsite data center a wreck. High-speed winds and floods can destroy your business premise, damaging computer systems. Business data loss comes with many repercussions. Lost company data can ruin normal company operations.

Backup data systems can protect your business data in case of such disasters. Backing up your company data to cloud-based systems is the most recommended solution. The benefits of cloud-based data backup solutions go beyond saving costs.

Reinforce Onsite Business Safety

The tornado season comes with floods and winds that can destroy power lines. Install solar-powered batteries and generators for power backups. Board up doors and windows, and reinforce the glasses against damage. Create many backups of computer records and physical files. Have them stored miles away in an offsite location. If your business location is prone to floods and storms, operate from a safe location.

Outsource Data Recovery

Outsourcing data recovery does more than save you money and time. Data recovery companies use the latest, most-advanced data storage and recovery tools. They offer premium outsourced data storage and recovery systems that can grow with your business. In case of storms and floods, you won’t lose your data. Even if the storms ruin your in-house computer and data recovery systems, you won’t lose your data. The cost of recovering your data is also lower when you outsource to the right company.

Assess and Document Your Business Inventory

Insurance companies are notorious for paying the least of what is payable. If you don’t keep records of your inventory, your insurance provider may cheat you in case of disasters. Get videos and photos of your inventory, including the prices. Keep a virtual record of everything available on your business premises. If possible, send some of your inventory videos and photos to your lawyer.

Insurance Coverage for Your Business

Once the responsible bodies in Orlando announce the hurricane date, confirm if you have insured your business against threats. There are many insurance covers you can add to your insurance policy in preparedness for tornadoes. The most recommended insurance covers to add to your policy are property coverage, flood insurance, and business interruption coverage. Look for an insurance provider with a track record of making most insurance payouts.

The hurricane is around the corner, and the least you can do is safeguard your business against it. The benefits of preparing a business against storm damages are more than the costs. Regardless of the service, you’re seeking to prepare your business for a tornado, look for the experts in that area.

Storm Flood Cleanup Checklist

5/31/2022 (Permalink)

A checklist of items that may be necessary and helpful during storm cleanup can help get you prepared ahead of time.

In the aftermath of a storm, whether from a thunderstorm or hurricane, you need to be prepared for cleanup. Cleanup can take days and should start as soon as the storm begins. The following is a checklist of items that may be necessary and helpful during cleanup: paper towels, garbage bags, tarp or plastic sheeting, shovels and rakes, and rubber gloves to protect your hands from bacteria in trash piles since they may not wash your hands or use gloves when cleaning up. Many areas will require you to drain standing water and empty couches at the local fire department. If there are items determined to be hazardous by local officials, they will be disposed of. 

During cleanup, you should wear protective clothing, including rubber boots. You could get injured or cut if you step on a sharp piece of wood or glass. If you have questions about what to do with certain items after the storm, contact your local health department or other authorities as necessary. Temporary power generators can help if your electricity is off for an extended period after a storm.

Steps To Cleanup After A Storm Flood

• If you have a generator, have it charged & ready to go after a storm. *If you don't have a generator, charge or buy one immediately.*
• Get shovels/ rakes, and do not try to haul water with hand tools. It can cause damage to your materials and equipment.
• Do not use gas-powered tools after the storm except for generators in case of a power outage.
• Storm drains should be swamped with heavy debris. It is best not to throw these into dumpsters or on the curb unless it is a trash bag.
• If you cannot lift a large item, such as a container, do not put it in your car. Call the city office to request a pickup.
• Bulk items that are heavy, such as refrigerators and furniture, should be wrapped in plastic sheeting and placed in the bed of your car.
• If you have standing water, drain it immediately. If your house is damaged, call the city office. If there is no place to drain the water right away, place small pieces of wood underneath a hazardous object and wait until the water has settled; then remove it.
• Trees blown over by strong winds may become hazardous because they may have broken branches or other parts that could come off and possibly harm someone.
• If you remove the carpet, use a duct cleaning machine to avoid the spread of mold.
• Do not use gas-powered machines or grills for cooking during cleanup.
• Do not throw fish in the grass or put them in bins at the curb or dumpster; it attracts other animals that could spread diseases.

Fire Damage: The Do's and Don'ts

5/31/2022 (Permalink)

Until the fire department has declared it safe, do not enter your home. There could be structural damage that makes it unsafe to enter.

A fire can be one of the most devastating things to a home. Not only is there the damage from the fire itself, but often water is used to put out the fire, which can cause additional damage. If you have experienced a fire in your home, it is important to know what to do and what not to do to minimize the damage.

The DO's

• Make safety a priority: Your safety and your family's safety should be your number one priority after a fire. Be sure to check for any structural damage to your home before re-entering and be aware of any potential hazards.
• Call a professional: Once you have ensured that everyone is safe, the next step is to call a professional fire damage restoration company. They will be able to assess the damage and start restoring your home.
• Call your insurance company: As soon as possible after the fire, you should call your insurance company and let them know what has happened. They will be able to help you determine what coverage you have and what steps you need to take next.
• Make a list of damaged items: Once the fire is out and it is safe to enter your home, make a list of all the items that were damaged by the fire. It will be important when you are making an insurance claim.
• Take pictures: If possible, take pictures of the damage. It will provide documentation for your insurance claim.
• Clean up what you can: Once you have documented the damage, start cleaning up what you can. It will help prevent further damage and will make the repair process easier.
• Be very careful when walking around your home. There may be loose floorboards or other hazards that you cannot see.
• Take advantage of any resources your local community may offer. Many communities have resources available to help homeowners who have experienced a fire. These resources may include temporary housing, financial assistance, or counseling services.

The DON'Ts

• Please don't enter your home until it is safe: Until the fire department has declared it safe, do not enter your home. There could be structural damage that makes it unsafe to enter.
• Don't try to clean up on your own: Many people think they can save money by cleaning up the damage themselves. However, this is not recommended. Cleaning up fire damage is a complex process and, if done wrong, could cause further damage. It is best to leave it to the professionals.
• Don't throw away damaged items: Until you have talked to your insurance company, do not throw away any items that were damaged in the fire. They may be able to be repaired or restored, and you don't want to get rid of something that your policy could cover.
• Don’t use any fans or air conditioners until you have consulted with a professional restoration company. Fans and air conditioners can spread soot and smoke damage if they are not correctly used.

Conclusion

If you have experienced a fire in your home, follow these dos and don'ts to minimize the damage. And, be sure to call your insurance company as soon as possible so they can help you through the process.