Preparing for Storms

2/10/2023 (Permalink)

Preparing for a storm will reduce the risk of damage to your property.

Storms can be very destructive, and they can cause you to lose time and money. Prepare yourself for a storm by making sure your property is ready for the worst.

Secure loose Rain Gutters and Downpipes

It’s important to secure loose rain gutters and downpipes before a storm. They can become dangerous if they are not secured properly, as they can fall off and cause damage or injury. Make sure that your rain gutter is secured by checking that it has enough screws in place, and you may also want to check its connection with the fascia boards at the top of your house.

Move Vehicles Under Cover

Move vehicles, boats or trailers under cover to protect for wind and rain damage. Park on the highest point of your property or in a garage or car port if possible. This will protect it from floodwaters and falling trees, which are more likely to occur during high wind conditions.

Secure Outdoor Furniture

Winds can cause damage to outdoor belongings. Secure patio furniture and accessories to prevent damages to windows or doors. Make sure play equipment is well secured to the ground. Ensure items are not blocking drains or access to your house and car.

Stock up on Bottled Water and Nonperishable Foods

Stock up on bottled water and nonperishable foods such as canned goods and dried fruit. Keep a torch, battery-powered radio, spare batteries, candles and matches in an easy-to-reach place. If you don't have a battery-powered radio, wait until you can get one. You should also make sure that you have spare batteries and candles in case the power doesn't come back on immediately after the storm passes.

If the worst happens, however unlikely it may be, it's best to prepare for all potential outcomes as far ahead of time as possible.

Reduce the risk of Damage to your property

If a storm is approaching, it's important to prepare yourself, your home and your family. Using the elements as an opportunity to do some spring cleaning can also help you get ready for a storm. Preparing your car in advance of a potential emergency can make all the difference in getting out safely if one occurs.

If you’re prepared for a storm, you’ll be able to reduce the risk of damage to your property. This will also help you save time and money when it comes to dealing with any repairs that need to be made. If you want more information on how to prepare for a storm, check out this site. https://www.ready.gov/severe-weather

What To Do If You Do Not Have Flood Insurance

8/28/2022 (Permalink)

FEMA offers several kinds of grants

Water can quickly enter your Estero, FL, house during a major storm. Even if you do have homeowners' insurance, your policy likely does not include flood coverage. Luckily, those without flood insurance can still apply for a grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

Types of Grants

FEMA offers several kinds of grants. They can assist with:

• Home repairs
• Personal property losses
• Funeral, dental or medical costs
• Vehicle repair or replacement
• Temporary housing
• Rent

The home repair grant should help you pay for initial emergency restoration services that make your house safe, secure, habitable, and sanitary. However, the government will not cover the costs of returning your home to its pre-flood condition.

You will not have to repay the grant money that you spend. However, you must keep your receipts to prove that the money was used to repair your home. Any money that was not spent was spent on alternative purposes or cannot be documented via receipts will have to be returned to the government.

Eligibility Requirements

Anyone who lives in a county that has been designated a disaster area is eligible for a grant. Even if you have flood insurance, you can use the grant for excess expenses that insurance does not cover.

Renters and college students qualify for grants, as well. Applicants do not need to be under a certain income threshold, either. However, you or a member of your household must be a citizen, non-citizen national, or qualified alien.

Application Process

If you believe you are eligible for a grant, you can apply at www.DisasterAssistance.gov or call 800-462-7585. FEMA will then send a letter notifying you of its decision. Those who were denied eligibility can file an appeal in writing within 60 days of receiving the letter.

Depending on the flood plane of your local stream, even a relatively minor storm can cause large consequences for your property. That is why the government offers assistance to those without flood insurance.

How To Clean Up Sewage Backup in Your Bathtub

6/27/2022 (Permalink)

If you have sewage in your bathtub call SERVPRO

How to Get Rid of Sewage in Your Bathtub

When you have a sewer backup inside your home, it's crucial to implement cleanup and repair procedures as soon as possible. Not only is sewage in your residence unsightly and unsanitary, but it can also damage your items and render certain household spaces — such as a bathroom or basement — unusable.

A bathtub backup can be particularly daunting to clean up. Here are three steps to cleaning and sanitizing the area in and around your tub.

1. Determine if your home's interior is safe to enter after a sewer backup

If the sewage is affecting electrical wires or otherwise flooding outside your tub or toilet in Estero, FL, you may need to call a professional storm damage cleanup and restoration company for an assessment or inspection right away. If this is the case, the company will do necessary checks and then inform you of next steps.

2. Remove items and waste from your bathtub and other areas
As soon as the cause of the backup is identified and resolved, work to remove sewage. Use a shovel and plastic bags to remove dirt and waste. Dispose of plastic bags right away. If damage is minimal, this is a process you may be able to complete on your own. If there is excess water that doesn't properly drain, a cleanup company may use a pump and wet/dry vacuums to remove moisture.

3. Disinfect affected surfaces and items
After removing sewage and moisture, use soapy, warm water to clean affected areas. Run clothing and other fabric items through the washing machine. Then, use a bleach solution to disinfect. For a small sewer backup, this should be sufficient. If you experience lingering odors or fear you are unable to reach impacted areas under tile or behind vanities, sewage cleanup professionals can help to identify problem spots and restore your home.

Dealing with sewage is never pleasant, but it's important to clean residential areas when backups happen.

How To Prevent Sewage Backup

6/17/2022 (Permalink)

Avoid putting grease down the drain

How Can Sewage Back-Up Be Avoided?

A sewer backup can cause damage to your home that requires professional remediation and restoration. If this has happened to you, you may know that it can also cause costly changes to your insurance premiums or coverage. Therefore, it's crucial to find ways to prevent future sewage problems. Fortunately, there are preventative measures you can take to prevent backups.

1. Have a Licensed Plumber Install an Overhead Sewer System

With an overhead sewer system, your basement is protected due to excess water being directed to an area beneath your floor called a sump. A sump pump then moves water to pipes overhead, which drain into your sewer line. In other words, water is directed away from the basement.

2. Get a Backwater Valve

Another option is to have a backwater valve installed. This mechanism prevents water backflow into your basement and must be installed by a licensed plumber, but it can result in less risk of flooding due to backups.

3. Keep Your Sewer System Clean To Prevent Another Backup

It's important to have a sewer cleaning done, especially if your pipes are prone to clogs or if you know of flushed items that could be creating a blockage. Snake your pipes every 18 to 24 months and keep them clear of tree and plant roots.

4. Address Storm Damage Promptly

If your home in Bonita Springs, FL, has recently sustained severe weather damage, you can also have a clean-up and restoration company identify issues within your system. Having any damage remediated and restored helps to ensure proper water flow in the event of another storm affecting your property.

Above all, exercise smart sewer practices to prevent a backup. Avoid putting grease down the drain, flush only toilet paper and human waste, and be sure to plant trees away from your pipes.

4 Ways to Prevent Mold Damage After Flooding

5/16/2022 (Permalink)

Mold can begin to grow 24 to 48 hours after a flood, so acting quickly is critical.

4 Ways To Avoid Mold Damage After A Flood

When there are storms with heavy rains, or when snow melts after a long winter, flooding can occur. If you experience a flood, it is important to deal with the damage right away to prevent mold growth. Mold can begin to grow within 24 to 48 hours of a flood, so taking quick action is imperative.

1. Ventilate the Area

One of the first things to do is open doors and windows. Mold spores can hang around in the air, so this helps eliminate them.

2. Get Rid of the Standing Water and Dry Out Flooring

Moisture is a breeding ground for mold. If you have water buildup, this can harbor bacteria and other contaminants. Call flood cleanup specialists to pump out the water, dry out the affected items, clean up the mess and restore the damage. You can also put out fans and dehumidifiers to help speed up the drying process.

3. Decide What to Get Rid Of

Although you may be able to salvage some of the items impacted by the flood, you will probably have to throw some stuff away. Upholstered furniture, items made with wood, and anything made with porous material should be thrown if it was submerged under water. Damp rugs and carpets should also be thrown to avoid mold growth. Make sure you wear the proper gear to protect your mouth, eyes, skin and nose.

4. Clean Surfaces

If an item is made out of a non-porous material, such as plastic, metal or glass, you can keep them as long as you clean them. Use a mixture of water and detergent to thoroughly wipe down anything affected by flood waters.

If you have been affected by a flood in Estero, Florida, make sure you clean up the area immediately. Doing so will help prevent mold growth and further damage.

What Can You Expect With Storm Damage?

3/7/2022 (Permalink)

If you are having flooding issues and suspect storm or water damage, give SERVPRO a call on our 24-hour service line.

What Should You Expect When It Comes To Storm Damage?

The first time that you return to your Bonita Springs, FL, building after a storm or a flood can be devastating. At first, the destruction may seem impossible to recover, especially with flooding and water damage. The idea of a complete tear out of the building can be daunting. Yet storm restoration is not impossible, and by knowing what to expect, you can create an effective recovery plan.

1. Getting Rid of the Water

The first thing you need to do before anything else is water extraction. This means getting rid of any standing water or water that may have flooded in recessed areas. In some instances, this is just a matter of wiping and mopping up, but in others, you may need to open drainage pathways or even use vacuum suction to remove the majority of flood waters from the premises.

2. Removing Wet Materials

The next step in alleviating storm damage is a complete tear out of wet materials that cannot be adequately dried in place and may even lead to mold and mildew. This includes carpet, wallpaper, and sometimes even floor tile. These materials not only become waterlogged but can also trap water underneath them, making it impossible for the building to completely dry out.

In the instances of extremely bad flooding, you may need to remove waterlogged wood or drywall. Once water has soaked into the building’s structural materials, many times those materials cannot be recovered and must instead be knocked out and replaced.

3. Drying Out the Structure

After you finish your tear out and dispose of waterlogged materials, you need to dry out the building completely. The easy way to do this is to open the windows and wait, but you can also use fans and other devices to hasten the drying process. Any waterlogged areas should get the most attention, and as they dry, they should be tested for structural integrity. It may require professional storm restoration services to ensure the safety of the building.

Getting Ahead of Mold Damage After a Flood

3/5/2022 (Permalink)

Mold growth and lingering odors are just two of the issues you'll have to deal with after a flood. at SERVPRO, we help you solve it.

After A Flood, Preventing Mold Damage

Did you know that within 24 to 48 hours, mold can begin to grow in flood-affected areas? Mold growth happens disastrously quick when there is standing water, and even without mold, you have to worry about the proliferation of bacteria in standing water and gray water. To get ahead of mold damage, you need to have a reactive, responsive plan for restoring your commercial building in Estero, FL.

1. Move Fast

Don’t delay cleaning up after a flood. Particularly, don’t delay cleaning up any water. Mold growth is dependent on water, and without moisture, it will have nothing to feed on. Make water removal your first step in your cleanup plan, and initiate removal as soon as your property is safe to enter.

2. Be Aggressive

You may be tempted to try milder methods, wait, and then try something more aggressive. By that time, mold has already had a chance to set in and will be even harder to get rid of. Use the most effective methods first rather than trying for something softer. As long as you aren’t damaging the interiors of your property, you’re better off going in with stronger cleansers and cleaning equipment.

3. Be Thorough

Don’t leave a single corner untouched. Nooks and crevices are places where mold thrives, and where undetected moisture can make a perfect place for mold to begin growing out of the sunlight. Check every last crack to ensure you aren’t leaving any untouched hidden areas that may lead to problems.

4. Be Safe

No matter how worried you are about mold growth, be safe when handling your flood restoration and cleaning. If you don’t trust yourself to handle the equipment and chemicals needed to appropriately siphon away water and eliminate mold, contact professionals or enlist help from others. Always make sure to work in a well-ventilated place, wear protective gear, and avoid contact with hazardous substances, sharp edges, or exposed electrical wires.

3 Storm Flooding Business Survival Tips

11/10/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is here to help in your time of need. We are flood damage restoration experts who are available 24 hours a day to respond when you need us.

3 Tips For Surviving A Flooded Business

Storm warnings in Estero, FL, may give you the heads up that you need to prepare, but what steps are most important and how should they be carried out? Use the following tips to protect your people, your equipment and inventory, and your buildings as much as possible when storms hit. Learn how to reduce your losses and when to tear out damaged property when flooding is an issue.

1. Focus on Personnel Safety

Your first step when storms lead to flooding is to follow all evacuation warnings. Failure to follow evacuation instructions could lead to injuries or deaths. Before the storm hits, you should have an evacuation protocol in place, so your employees, renters, or personnel know exactly how to respond, where to go, and how to remain in contact with you.

2. Protect Property and Documents

The more you know about the types of flood risk in Estero, FL, the risk of flooding, and whether to invest in flood insurance policies, the better prepared you'll be when disasters strike. Develop and practice evacuation routes and emergency response procedures. Take steps such as storing documents in waterproof containers and backing data up on the cloud. Keep your most valuable equipment and supplies on higher levels of the building and keep up a regular schedule of maintenance to reduce water damage.

3. Begin Storm Restoration Right Away

As soon as you get the go-ahead from authorities, give your properties some attention. This will involve removing all water and drying the property. You may want to involve storm restoration professionals in this step and the following steps. Next, tear out damaged, wet materials, such as soggy ceilings and warped studs. As you tear out sections of the building that you can't repair, continue the drying process, so you can be sure to get all of the hidden areas of the property. Finally, turn your focus to the restoration of your building.

Storm Damage Versus Water Damage Cleanup: What's the Difference?

9/15/2021 (Permalink)

When dealing with Category One damage, the best approach is to quickly eliminate water and moisture that may lead to mold.

Storms, flooding, and leaks can all damage your home. While water is the source of the damage in all of these situations, the major difference is the category of water involved. Find out about the three categories of water damage and how cleanup varies between storm damage, flood damage, and leaks.

• Category One water is clean and treated. A burst supply pipe is the most common source of a Category One leak.

• Category Two water is also known as gray water. This water may contain bacteria or chemicals but not sewage or solid waste.

• Category Three water is sometimes referred to as black water. Blackwater is the most common type involved in flooding and is highly contaminated.

The cleanup procedures necessary for these categories of water damage vary.

Category One Cleanup

The water involved in a category one leak is clean and treated. As bacteria is not a concern, the only cleanup procedures necessary involve eliminating any standing water and thoroughly drying the affected area. You may still want to rely on fans and dehumidifiers to dry the area more quickly and prevent mold from forming.

Category Two Cleanup

Category Two cleanup should involve cleaning and disinfection as well as thorough drying. This type of backup or leak is not as severe as damage from a flood or sewer backup.

Category Three Cleanup

Floods and severe sewage backups involve black water containing solid waste. Cleaning and disinfection are necessary to limit infection risks, and the area must be completely dried to prevent mold.

When dealing with Category One damage, the best approach is to quickly eliminate water and moisture that may lead to mold. Most flooding and storm damage cleanup involves black water and requires cleaning and disinfection in addition to drying. Resolve any situation as soon as possible by contacting a flood damage restoration company in Bonita Springs, FL.

3 Machines That Remove Flood Water From Your Commercial Building’s Garage

8/12/2021 (Permalink)

Commercial garage flooded

3 Flood Water Removal Machines for Your Commercial Building's Garage

Flooding in Estero, FL, can affect almost every area of your commercial building. One of the most vulnerable areas is your structure’s garage, whether you use it for employee parking or to house your businesses’ vehicles. When a flood pushes several feet of water into your commercial garage, there are three types of equipment that a professional storm cleanup and restoration service may use to remove it.

1. Pump Truck

A storm cleanup company may bring in a pump truck to remove flood water from your garage because of the possible contaminants it can contain. Most water that spills over from rivers, streams and other local bodies of water to create flooding is known as black water, as it usually contains human and animal waste. A pump truck removes the water with large industrial hoses and deposits it into a large truck tank, where it can be delivered to a safe disposal area.

2. Sump Pumps

You may see your cleanup service use equipment called submersible sump pumps to remove floodwater. An industrial sump pump like this can pull large amounts of standing water from an area into a tank or other container. Portable sump pumps can be useful in this situation for the mitigation of floodwater, as they can be moved and placed where necessary to remove water from areas that are especially vulnerable.

3. Trash Pumps

A trash pump can be especially effective in cleaning up floodwaters from your commercial garage because it is designed to pick up solids or thick, sludgy silt that may be mixed with the water. It can also handle the debris that may have come in during the flood, such as leaves and other plant material. Trash pumps may be more effective than sump pumps when the water contains a great deal of waste.

When flooding impacts your Estero, FL, commercial garage, it can be difficult to remove standing water on your own. However, professional cleanup and restoration services have a variety of equipment that can remove floodwaters with a minimum of hassle.

Flood Safety Tips Every Homeowner Should Know

7/29/2021 (Permalink)

Storm ceiling damage

Every Homeowner Should Know These Flood Safety Tips

You read and hear about disasters on the news, but you may never think they’ll happen to you. However, disastrous incidents such as flooding can occur anywhere in Bonita Springs, FL, and beyond. Though it’s impossible in all circumstances to control when a flood will affect you, there are ways you can prepare for flood safety. If you practice a few simple tips, you could save yourself a significant of time, money and grief.

Before a Flood

Flooding can be an issue due to several factors, including intense weather, poor plumbing, sewage backup and others. No matter what you do, you can’t keep the weather away, but you can do some things to minimize damage.

• Clean your rain gutters
  
• Seal basement vents
  
• Examine windows and make sure they don’t have gaps
  
• Have a trained professional examine your plumbing and sewage systems
  
• Secure valuables in waterproof containers or safe deposit boxes
  
  

During a Flood

If water starts making its way into your home, it’s essential that you avoid contact with it. Of all the safety tips, one of the most critical is that you stay away from black water, which contains sewage and other potentially fatal materials. You should also turn off your home’s power and water mains. Also, never use an appliance that has come into contact with floodwater. It’s important to pay attention to instructions from local authorities on how to safely react to flooding.

After a Flood

Flood safety is just as important following the incident as it is during. Once the water is under control, you need to clear it out as soon as possible. You should do this with a wet vacuum. Make sure you dry the area and sanitize thoroughly as well. A restoration specialist will determine whether you need to replace the flooring, walls, or other areas.

If you practice good flood safety, you can avoid damage to your home and injury to yourself and your loved ones. Keep these guidelines handy and implement them today.

3 Aspects of Commercial Storm Insurance To Understand as a Business Owner

5/13/2021 (Permalink)

Get the necessary storm insurance policy for your business.

Commercial Storm Insurance

In the event that the Bonita Springs, FL, building in which you run your business experiences a storm, you'll want to take swift and decisive action. In order to get the storm damage restoration process underway, one of the first things you'll need to do is work with your insurance agency. Unfortunately, commercial insurance for storms can be difficult to navigate. If you'd like to know more, here are three aspects of commercial storm insurance to understand as a business owner.

1. Storm Riders
Regrettably, commercial property insurance policies often don't include coverage for storms. This is especially common when it comes to flood damage. However, you may be able to get coverage for wind-related problems. Generally, these are the damage causes that commercial property insurance will cover:

• Windstorms
  
• Vandalism
  
• Fire
  
• Robbery
  
  

If your policy doesn't cover storm damages, you may want to expand your insurance coverage through riders. Riders provide extra coverage for specific events, such as hurricanes. This is an especially good idea if you work in a storm-prone area.

2. Business Interruption
Since storms can be highly destructive, you may find yourself unable to use your building or supplies. If this occurs, you might be worried about experiencing further financial loss. This is why adding a business interruption rider to your insurance can be useful. Doing so could help you pay expenses while being unable to work.

3. Deductibles
Ever since Katrina and other massive hurricanes occurred, the method of paying deductibles has changed for most states. Instead of setting a standard rate for deductibles, most storm insurance providers use percentages. This means that properties ensured for more will have higher deductibles. In order to avoid getting caught off-guard when dealing with insurance, be sure to calculate how much your deductible would be.
In order to avoid experiencing massive losses after a storm, it's vital to prepare. Do your research and get the necessary storm insurance policy for your business.

3 Things You Must Do When Fixing a Leaky Roof

5/10/2021 (Permalink)

Man fixing a leaky roof in Coconut, FL

Three Steps That Should Happen

You look up and there is a wet ring on the ceiling. Great, there is a roof leak. Who knows how long it's been there with water festering and allowing mold to breed. This isn't good news. As a business owner in Coconut, FL, you know that fixing your property correctly is the best way to avoid catastrophic damage; therefore, it's important to act swiftly, looking over the situation and creating a plan. During this time, remember there are three steps that should happen.

1. Evaluate the Water Damage

The holes or missing shingles need mending; however, before any of that happens, a water remediation company needs to investigate how much moisture infiltrated the building. If allowed to sit stagnantly, this accumulation can continue to rot material, permitting microbes to grow. Therefore, have tests performed to determine the extent of water absorption. Then, cover the impacted area so more does not get through. Inside, rearrange fixtures and merchandise, so they are out of that zone, protecting them from potential issues down the road.

2. Tear Out and Dry the Impacted Structure

Knowing the trouble, the specialists begin to remove anything the roof leak saturated. Leaving it behind could become a potential hazard as items have integrity and are filled with fungal and bacterial spores. With all of this gone, the rest of the area undergoes drying procedures. Dehumidifiers can pull out humidity, and they can be placed near crawl spaces.

3. Restore and Rebuild the Section

Once all contamination is dealt with, the damaged roof needs correcting. The crew can put on new shingles as well as replace the internal substances. This includes patching and painting what was ruined.
Be cautious when you spot a roof leak. It's not something to dismiss quickly. In fact, allowed to linger, this situation can become a very messy, expensive problem. Have the rooftop thoroughly examined, being careful to search for excessive fluid development.

Preparing Your Business for a Flood

4/5/2021 (Permalink)

Sandbags can help prevent water to get into your building.

Steps To Take To Prepare A Business Flood

Preparing your business for a flood is more than just preparing a sandbag barrier and hoping for the best. It takes some time and planning, but there are a few simple steps.

Create a Plan
When it floods, you need a plan. This includes:

• Getting insurance
  
• Training your employees
  
• Checking your business flood zone
  
• Noting areas that may need flood dams
  
• Duplicating critical information and storing it at another location
  
  

Make sure you write down your plan and keep it in an area where you and your employees can find it in the event of a flood. You should also keep the number of a flood remediation company handy just in case.

Check Your Cities Flood Plan
You should know what Estero, FL, does in the event of a flood. Some cities offer flood supplies when a storm is imminent, while others have pumps that are turned on when floodwaters threaten businesses. Other cities open areas where sandbag devices or other flood barriers can be purchased and filled.

Purchase Supplies
Do not wait until the last minute to purchase supplies like barriers, heavy tape, tarps, boards and barriers. There are usually shortages of these items right before a flood. If you keep these items in storage, check them before storm season to ensure they are still in working order. These items can easily prevent flood damage to your business, and it is better to have them just in case.

Outline What Happens After a Flood
Having an outline for what happens after a flood is just as important as planning for the flood itself. You should know what you need to do, who you need to call and what precautions you need to take. Just having this can help you remain calm and reduce the stress of dealing with water damage.
Preparing for a flood is more than just throwing a sandbag or barrier device down. Having a clear idea of what you need to do before and after can help you keep your business safe from flooding.

Rising Flood Water: 3 Things You Need To Know

11/4/2020 (Permalink)

Water from overflowing lakes or rivers, also known as rising water, is always classified as black water

Here’s What You Need To Know About This Kind Of Floodwater

All flooding is bad news, especially when it’s in your Estero, FL, business, but all flooding is not created equal. Water that enters your building from outside is within the most dangerous category of water: category three or black water.

1. It’s Dangerous
Water from overflowing lakes or rivers, also known as rising water, is always classified as black water. In addition to the bacteria and other organic material present in the original water source, rising water may have also been contaminated by ground debris, animal feces, overflowing septic systems, fertilizers, chemicals, heavy metals, pesticides, raw sewage, or other hazardous matter. It poses a serious health hazard to humans and animals.

2. It Requires Professional Cleanup
If rising water enters your building, call a professional flood remediation company as soon as possible. Never attempt to clean up this type of flooding yourself. Inadequate decontamination measures could have disastrous consequences for the health of the building’s inhabitants and for the structural soundness of the building itself. Restoration professionals have the proper training and equipment to clean up category three flood water correctly.

3. It Can Cause Irreparable Damage
Bacteria and mold begin to multiply quickly and can spread rapidly throughout your building. Professional cleanup crews will need to remove and dispose of all carpet, carpet pads, and other porous flooring materials, as well as all affected drywall and any textiles such as curtains. After everything is removed, the building will need to be treated with chemical biocides to kill any remaining bacteria and prevent future mold growth. Repair work can’t begin until the property has been sufficiently decontaminated.
If rising water or storm damage causes your building to flood, don’t waste time or endanger yourself. Evacuate all people and animals, if needed. Avoid unnecessary contact with the flood water and call a restoration company immediately.

How First Responders Can Protect Themselves During Floods

10/21/2020 (Permalink)

Be prepared by always carrying protective goggles

How To Safely Perform Your Duties During A Flood

If you are a first responder, it is critical that you be aware of how to safely perform your duties during a flood. As one of the individuals responsible for helping out during times of distress, it remains incumbent upon you to respond to a storm emergency without sustaining illness or injury.

What To Wear
Should your services as part of a flood response team become necessary, be prepared by always carrying:

• Protective goggles
  
• Chemical-resistant boots
  
• Plastic or rubber gloves
  
  

These items are necessary as floodwaters commonly suffer contamination from hazardous waste and threatening vermin. As a conscientious and levelheaded first responder, it is recommended that you have worn equipment laundered prior to returning home. Always shower before calling it quits just to be certain you do not drag any toxic chemicals along with you into your house.

How To Remain Safe
Because flooding often carries with it diseases such as tetanus and hepatitis A, receive immunizations before the need to wade into uncertain waters arises.
If your mission requires entering a submerged home, keep in mind that harmful fungus begins accumulating within a short period of time. Whenever possible, move everyone away from the compromised zone to minimize exposure. Once the emergency has passed, remind all parties to have a mold removal service perform an inspection, as well as any subsequent necessary renovations.
When using a portable generator, keep it dry and closely follow the instructions. Beware that running one in a poorly ventilated area carries with it the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, so exercise caution.
Various terrains can become saturated during floods, causing sinkholes and other forms of ground instability. Therefore, look twice before stepping anywhere uncertain. You cannot help anyone if you need rescuing yourself.
As a first responder, your primary objective is to help families and then return to yours in Bonita Springs, FL, unharmed. Know how to handle whatever challenges a flood sends your way before attempting to rescue others.

Can I Avoid Flood Cuts in My Flooded Property?

9/1/2020 (Permalink)

Flood cut performed in this Bonita Springs, FL property

If flooding has affected your Bonita Springs, FL, building, it may have sustained some unexpected damage. Even though you can't see it right away, moisture that remains for more than a day or two can cause hidden contamination, such as mold and mildew. One of the steps that a flood remediation company takes to prevent this is a flood cut.

When Is a Flood Cut Necessary?

When technicians make a flood cut, they cut out the drywall about a foot to a foot and a half above the water damage. These cuts aren't always necessary, and professionals will do what they can to leave your property as intact as possible. However, one of the primary goals of these technicians is to prevent secondary damage. If any of the following are true, technicians will make the cut:

• There's insulation inside the walls.
  
• Flooding consists of or has been exposed to sewage.
  
• Floodwaters carry contaminants such as bacteria and pathogens.
  
• Water has been in place for too long and is now contaminated.
  
  

When first confronted with the need to tear out some of the drywall, you may be opposed to the idea. However, it's much less expensive and problematic to remove drywall now and make appropriate repairs than to find extensive mold growth later on.

What Happens After a Flood Cut?
Remember the flood cut isn't always necessary. Technicians will work to save the wall as long as the water is clean. If contamination is an issue, the cut is made to allow technicians access inside the wall. Any moisture and contamination concerns can be addressed to prevent mold growth, weakened structural elements, and problematic insulation.

When Should I Contact Cleanup Professionals?
Whether your building has been affected by a little bit of moisture or a lot of flooding, water damage professionals need to act quickly. These technicians will assess the structural integrity of your property and complete any necessary corrective actions.

5 Post Flood Tips for Your Home

8/13/2020 (Permalink)

Anytime you deal with flooding it’s important to wear safety gear

What Not To Do If You've Experienced Storm Flooding

After a storm has left floodwater in your Bonita Springs, FL, home there are a number of things to know. Here are five tips for what not to do if you’ve experienced storm flooding.

1. Don’t Leave the Electricity On

If you have a flooded home after a storm or even just a single area of flooding it’s important to turn off any electricity to the space. A professional can then safely make an assessment of the damage.

2. Don't Forget to Contact a Professional

Anytime you deal with flooding it's important to contact a local restoration service. These professionals will have the tools needed to clean up the water, and the training needed to make sure all the damage is found and repaired.

3. Don’t Leave Standing Water

Letting the flood water have time to seep into the flooring and walls can lead to long term water damage. This is why it's important to remove the water as quickly as possible. Your local restoration team may even have a pump handy to help with the job.

4. Don’t Forget Safety Gear

Anytime you deal with flooding it’s important to wear safety gear such as masks, gloves, clothing covers, and even protective shoe coverings.

5. Don’t Leave the Area To Dry on Its Own

Drying the space is just as important as removing the water. In many cases, your restoration service will have a dehumidifier to help pull the moisture out of the air, which can help the room dry faster.

After a storm leaves floodwater in your home it’s important to remember these five things. Turn off the electricity to the affected area. Call a professional for restoration help. Get rid of the water quickly. Wear appropriate safety gear, and make sure the area is thoroughly dried before you begin repairs. With the restoration team there to help your home can soon look “Like it never even happened.”

3 Things To Know About Mitigating Roof Damage

4/30/2020 (Permalink)

Protect your roof before a storm arrives in Estero, FL

Take Mitigations Steps Beforehand

When you hear about a storm approaching your Estero, FL, home, you may be wondering how you can prevent roof damage. There are a few things you can do to achieve this. Here are three of the most common.

1. Inspect the Roof Regularly

It’s a good idea to inspect your roof regularly to ensure that any needed repairs can be done well before you face storm weather. Look for areas of wind damage, loose shingles, cracks, loose gutters, or other things that could cause potential problems during a storm. If you don’t have time to fix these things before the storm arrives, it’s recommended to cover over the space to protect it.

2. Protect Damaged Areas

If you have existing roof damage or other areas of concern it’s best to protect this places before the storm arrives. You can do so by securing tarps or boards over the spot to add an extra layer between the roof and any inclement weather.

3. Make Repairs Quickly

It’s in your best interest to make any needed repairs as quickly as possible, as doing so can help mitigate the likelihood of further damage leading to large scale roof repair needs. In many cases, a local storm damage restoration service can help with these repairs. Restoration professionals are trained to spot the different types of damage that may have occurred and follow the appropriate repair steps, meaning soon your roof can look “Like it never even happened.”

Taking mitigation steps beforehand can help you prevent roof damage to your home. Consider inspecting the roof regularly so that you can catch any repair needs before large sale problems arise. Protect any damaged area you do find to prevent further problems, and contact a restoration service as soon as you can to make repairs quickly. These things can help keep your roof in top shape and protect it in the event a storm should occur.