Archived Blog Posts

Keeping your property safe from hurricane damage

3/28/2022 (Permalink)

A torrential downpour has finally subsided. Perhaps a long winter has finally come to an end, and the deep snows have started to melt.

While the pleasant weather may appear to be a welcome break, the risk of water damage may only be beginning. Flooding and property damage can occur when storm water runoff overwhelms natural and manmade systems.

When bad weather strikes, the efforts you take today to prepare your home and yard for adequate drainage will save you time and money in the long run.

Storm water runoff is absorbed by soil, evaporates into the atmosphere, or runs into bodies of water such as streams, lakes, and rivers in the natural environment.

https://www.travelers.com/resources/home/maintenance/protecting-your-home-from-storm-water-damage

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your mitigation needs.

How Can Water Damage In The Office Be Prevented?

3/28/2022 (Permalink)

How Can Water Damage In The Office Be Prevented?

Place office supplies and stationery in the appropriate locations.
Keep permeable materials like boxes and paper off the ground. While this may appear to be plain sense, people frequently overlook it, resulting in a disaster. Stationary and paperwork should be stored in higher cabinets so that nothing is lost if the floor floods. It's not a good idea to stack paperwork so near to the ground since water will rise to other papers if it comes into contact with the papers below. Computers and other electronic devices should also be hiked in price. Many offices have a policy of keeping CPUs under their desks.

https://www.plumbingservices.com.sg/articles/prevent-water-damage-in-office.html

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie is here for all of your restoration needs.

The Cost of Demolition and Repairing a Damaged Structure

3/28/2022 (Permalink)

The Cost of Demolition and Repairing a Damaged Structure

Many water pipes are hidden under walls, ceilings, floors, and other difficult-to-reach places. When an inside pipe bursts, you may need to demolish a piece of the structure to fix it.

Most property insurance policies, fortunately, cover the expense of ripping out and replacing any component of the structure you remove to repair damage to the plumbing system or an appliance (such as a boiler) from which water or another substance has escaped.

Assume that the supply line for the water fountain is positioned inside a wall in the scenario described above. A piece of the wall must be removed to obtain access to the damaged pipe.

https://www.thebalancesmb.com/damage-caused-by-water-leaks-462680

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Storm Season approaching

3/2/2022 (Permalink)

The Atlantic hurricane season outlook improves, with fewer storms projected.

Top hurricane experts have some positive news: According to a new forecast released on Monday, the 2018 Atlantic hurricane season will be quieter than usual.

Meteorologist Phil Klotzbach and other Colorado State University scientists - widely considered as the nation's best seasonal hurricane predictors — predict the formation of 10 named tropical storms, four of which will become hurricanes.

This is a significant decline from their April projection of seven hurricanes. Subtropical Storm Alberto, for example, formed in May. If the calm prognosis comes true, 2018 will be a welcome relief following the devastating 2017 season, which saw monsters like Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria wreak havoc across the country.

https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2018/07/03/hurricane-season-2018-forecast/755215002/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is Here 24/7 365 for all of your restoration needs.

This Spring, Here Are 6 Ways to Save Money and Water!

3/2/2022 (Permalink)

This Spring, Here Are 6 Ways to Save Money and Water!
While brushing your teeth, turn off the water. The typical faucet produces 2.5 gallons of water each minute. After you've wet your brush, turn off the water and leave it off until it's time to rinse.
While washing your hands, turn off the water. Save a few liters of water by turning off the faucet after you've washed your hands until you're ready to rinse.
Repair your leaks. Every year, around 1 trillion gallons of water are wasted by households in the United States. Repair leaks and save a lot of money!
Use the water from your boiled pasta to water your plants. Instead of throwing away the water used to cook your pasta, reuse it and save money!

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs

Example of Tree Falling on Roof Causing Water Damage & Gradual Damage

3/2/2022 (Permalink)

Exemplification of a Tree Falling on a Roof Causing Water Damage and Gradual Damage
The insurance company repaired the opening and roof following a water damage claim that was covered as a result of a tree falling on the roof and causing an entrance through which water rushed into the residence.
The damage to the home was fixed, but the homeowners detected a strange scent or paint chipping near where the repairs had been done many months later. They contact the insurance company that handled the claim, and they are informed that there is still dampness or, worse, newly grown mold where the damage was.
On rare circumstances, further damage may occur after or as a result of a claim, and this is not covered by insurance.

Sanitation of Food and Water

3/2/2022 (Permalink)

Sanitation of Food and Water

Purify your water until your local water company, utility, or public health department considers it safe, not only for drinking and cooking, but also for washing any part of the body or dishes.

Water: Strain water through a clean cloth or filter, then rapidly boil for one minute, then cool. If boiling is not an option, use new unscented liquid chlorine bleach (8 drops or 1/8 teaspoon per gallon of clear water; 16 drops or 1/4 teaspoon per gallon of cloudy water); stir; let stand 30 minutes. It is not advised to use iodine or purification pills.

Food: Undamaged professionally prepared meals in all-metal cans or retort pouches can be saved provided the labels are removed, the cans are properly washed, rinsed, and then disinfected with a sanitizing solution of 1 tablespoon bleach per gallon of potable water. Finally, use a marker to re-label containers that had their labels removed, including the expiration date.
Utensils: Flood-damaged wooden cutting boards and spoons, plastic utensils, baby bottles, nipples, and pacifiers should all be discarded. Wash metal and ceramic pans, utensils, and dishes thoroughly with hot soapy water before sanitizing them by boiling them in clean water or immersing them for 15 minutes in a solution of 1 tsp chlorine bleach/quart water.

https://agrilifeextension.tamu.edu/solutions/water-damage-restoration-clean-up-checklist/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Long-term flooding or moisture

3/2/2022 (Permalink)

Long-term flooding or moisture is likely to harm most interior finishes and contents, although the following methods may be viable if the flooding is brief and cleanup started quickly. Delay permanent repairs until the building has completely dried out, which could take many weeks.

Subfloors

Subfloor layers of submerged plywood or OSB will most likely separate or swell. To keep the new floor covering from buckling, affected parts must be replaced.
Allow the subflooring to dry thoroughly after removing floor coverings, which may take months without a dehumidifier.
Before installing new flooring, inspect it for warping.

Wooden Flooring

Remove a board carefully every few feet to prevent buckling caused by swelling. Consult a carpenter or flooring professional if the boards are tongue-and-grooved.
Before replacing boards and undertaking repairs, properly clean and dry the floor, which could take weeks.

https://agrilifeextension.tamu.edu/solutions/water-damage-restoration-clean-up-checklist/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Storm Season approaching

3/2/2022 (Permalink)

The Atlantic hurricane season outlook improves, with fewer storms projected.

Top hurricane experts have some positive news: According to a new forecast released on Monday, the 2018 Atlantic hurricane season will be quieter than usual.

https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2018/07/03/hurricane-season-2018-forecast/755215002/

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie is Here 24/7 365 for all of your restoration needs.

Sanitation of Food and Water

3/2/2022 (Permalink)

Sanitation of Food and Water

Purify your water until your local water company, utility, or public health department considers it safe, not only for drinking and cooking, but also for washing any part of the body or dishes.

https://agrilifeextension.tamu.edu/solutions/water-damage-restoration-clean-up-checklist/

SERVPRO of South Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

What Should You Do If There's a Flood?

3/1/2022 (Permalink)

What Should You Do If There's a Flood?

If your home or apartment has been flooded, the first step is to ensure that there are no new safety hazards.

To prevent further damage, turn off the water line if it is the source of the flooding.
To avoid electrocution, disconnect all electrical equipment and turn off any electrical fuses, even if the power is already off.
Notify your utility providers if you suspect any damage to your gas, water, electricity, or sewage lines, since these would necessitate professional assistance.
Examine your home for structural damage caused by floods, such as a warped floor or a sagging ceiling.

https://www.valuepenguin.com/homeowners-insurance/what-to-do-house-flooded

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

What Is the Best Way to Clean Up Flood Water?

3/1/2022 (Permalink)

You can start cleaning after you've recorded the damage and filed your claim. Depending on the extent and source of the flooding, you may be able to handle the cleanup on your own or you may need to contact a professional.

Open windows: Unless it will result in more flooding, open as many windows as possible to encourage air circulation.
Remove standing water as soon as possible with a shop vacuum or water pump. Prolonged contact with water can cause additional damage, such as swelling of timber floorboards, so attempt to remove standing water as soon as possible with a shop vacuum or water pump.
Cleanse carpet: Use a carpet cleaner to thoroughly scrub salvageable rugs and carpet, then quickly dry them. If the flood water is tainted with sewage, however, throw away all carpets.

Clean upholstered furniture: Hire a professional to clean your upholstered furniture, and dispose of any damp mattresses.
Remove floorboards: If you have hardwood floors, remove a floorboard every few feet to prevent swelling from buckling the floor. Your adjuster will inform you whether any further floors, tile, or vinyl must be removed to allow the subfloor to dry. Allow wooden floors to dry gradually to avoid cracking.
After you've washed any hard surfaces, sanitize them with diluted chlorine bleach.

https://www.valuepenguin.com/homeowners-insurance/what-to-do-house-flooded

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

How to Clean Up Blood in a Variety of Situations

3/1/2022 (Permalink)

The most prevalent location for blood spills is on a hard, non-carpeted surface. Tile, ceramic, vinyl, linoleum, metal, wood, cement, and any other non-absorbent flooring, such as a pool deck, are examples of these surfaces. Cleaning up blood and other bodily fluids from various surface types is easier than cleaning up on absorbent surfaces, but there are still vital precautions to take.

Spills on hard surfaces can spread over larger regions, so the spill must be contained fast. The following are the processes for cleaning up spills on these surfaces:

Close off the area until the cleanup and disinfection are finished. The location should not be accessible to tourists or unprotected staff members.
Don a pair of disposable gloves.
Wipe up as much of the spill as you can using a paper towel or other absorbent material.
Pour a bleach solution (1 part bleach to 9 parts water) gently over all affected areas.
Allow the bleach solution to remain on the contaminated area for 20 minutes before wiping up any residual bleach solution.
All non-disposable cleaning materials, such as mops, brushes, and rags, must be disinfected by soaking them in a bleach solution and allowing them to air dry.
Remove the gloves and store them in a rubbish bag with the rest of the soiled cleaning supplies.
Garbage bags should be double-bagged and tightly tied before being discarded.

https://cultureofsafety.thesilverlining.com/safety-tips/proper-blood-clean-up/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Why do frozen pipes often burst

3/1/2022 (Permalink)

The easiest method to deal with frozen pipes is to prevent them from occurring in the first place.

But, if the unexpected happens, you'll need to act quickly to limit the damage and restoration costs.

Why do frozen pipes burst?

According to Roto-Rooter spokesman Paul Abrams, not all frozen pipes explode. However, when one does, it is due to the fact that water expands as it freezes, putting significant pressure on inflexible plumbing pipes. That pressure can induce a small breach at a joint or crack in a length of pipe, allowing full flow of water into your home.

Water damage caused by burst pipes is one of the most common homeowners insurance claims, with an average claim cost of around $5,000.

How to Spot Freezing Pipes

A frost-coated water line (or one that bulges like a well-fed python) is a solid indication that it's frozen, although not all plumbing pipes are visible.

"If your faucets aren't working and your toilets aren't refilling after a flush, it's a good

sign your pipes are frozen,"

https://www.houselogic.com/organize-maintain/diy-repair/freezing-water-pipes/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

How to keep frozen pipes from bursting in your home

3/1/2022 (Permalink)

Winter storms can cause plumbing lines to freeze and perhaps burst, resulting in flooding and costly water damage to your home. Preventing frozen pipes and other cold-weather risks can be reduced or eliminated by taking preventive actions before winter arrives. "Because of their location in the residence, some pipes are more prone to freezing than others."

The following pipes are particularly vulnerable to freezing:

Pipes that are exposed in unheated portions of the house.
Pipes that are positioned on the outside of the walls.
Any plumbing on the home's outside.

https://www.houselogic.com/organize-maintain/diy-repair/prevent-freezing-pipes/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here 24 hours a day 7 days a week 365 days a year to serve you in any mitigation or restoration services needed. Call us today so we can get you back to preloss conditions “Like it never even happened.”

How to put a stop to the leak in your house

3/1/2022 (Permalink)

Before you add a clamp, add a block of wood.

If you're in a hurry and don't have the proper tools, you can improvise by placing a block of wood over the piece of rubber before tightening a clamp. The block of wood will help to spread the pressure and keep the pipe from collapsing.

Obtain a C-Clamp

For a temporary remedy, place a C-clamp over the block of wood and a piece of rubber to plug the leak.

Remove the faulty pipe.

If you're more experienced with plumbing repairs, you might go ahead and cut out the damaged section of the pipe. Turn off the main water supply valve, empty the damaged water line, and cut out a length of pipe that extends about 1 in. on each side of the leak with a pipe cutter. Begin by securely grasping the pipe in the cutter's jaws and tightening the cutter's screw. As you tighten the screw handle, rotate the cutter in the direction illustrated until the pipe snaps.

https://www.familyhandyman.com/list/15-things-you-should-do-when-you-find-a-burst-pipe/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

What steps should you take if your home floods?

3/1/2022 (Permalink)

Put a stop to the flow of water at the source.

Unless the flooding is the result of a natural calamity, identify the source of the water and shut it down or lock it up. The simplest way to stop water flow is to turn off the main water valve to the house. Locate the valve before it floods if feasible so that you can find it quickly in the case of a water emergency.

Turn off the power.

After the source of the water has been turned off, switch off any electrical systems in your home—but don't walk through water to get to the fuse box. If you can't reach the fuse box without stepping in water, call an electrician.

Evacuate the structure.

If a pipe has broken or a sewage leak has occurred, evacuate the premises and seek a dry, safe spot outside your home. It could be in your own backyard or as far away as a neighbor's or friend's house. Check to check that everyone is safe and undamaged, including children, dogs, and anyone else who may have been at the house.

In the event of a natural disaster, consult authorities or listen to local news to find a temporary shelter. Evacuate everyone to the shelter as soon as possible.

https://www.safewise.com/home-security-faq/house-flood/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

What you should do if your house floods

3/1/2022 (Permalink)

A flood is one of the most damaging and devastating things you may ever endure as a homeowner. Household flooding can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

Heavy downpours
Back-up sewer system
The sump-pump isn't working.
Pipes burst
Whatever the cause, you should still know what to do if your house floods. Taking care of the problem as soon as possible will help decrease the amount of damage and make clean-up and repair easier.

First and foremost, safety.

The most important thing to do in any severe house tragedy is to stay safe. If the flooding is severe enough, you may be forced to abandon your home. When you come home to begin dealing with the consequences, make sure you are also protected. Turning off the power may be necessary, as water and electrical do not mix. When you return home, use protective clothing, such as rubber boots and gloves. Not only will you have to deal with the water, but also with whatever else the water has come into contact with, such as debris or even sewage. It is vital to safeguard oneself from any potentially toxic chemicals or materials that may have been washed in by the floodwaters.

https://learn.allergyandair.com/house-flood-cleanup-tips/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Inquiring to the Insurance Company

3/1/2022 (Permalink)

Your homeowners' insurance will vary depending on your policy, but many insurance companies cover floods caused by storms, backed-up city sewers and storm drains, faulty sump pumps, or burst pipes. The insurance company will dispatch an adjuster to inspect and assess the damage to decide whether or not it is a covered loss. If your losses and damages are covered by insurance, the sooner you contact the provider, the sooner they will pay out. Repairs can be pricey, but the insurance money will help you get your home back in order faster and with less financial stress.

If your flooding is part of a bigger weather disaster, your insurance carrier may be unable to send an adjuster soon away. Take as many photos as you can before, during, and after cleaning to document the values of everything. This will assist the adjuster when he or she arrives to inspect the damage.

https://learn.allergyandair.com/house-flood-cleanup-tips/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Cleaning up after a ruptured pipe

3/1/2022 (Permalink)

A burst pipe can be caused by anything from a blown-out sink valve to a water main fracture and everything in between. Turning off the water supply and stopping the flow of water is the most important component of dealing with a burst pipe. The water is fairly well confined if the pipe is in a crawl space or basement. However, if the burst pipe is in a domestic setting, such as a toilet feed or an under-sink supply line, drying out the area gets more complicated depending on how much water has inundated the house.

Open windows in the house to allow damp air to escape. Several fans strategically placed around the area will assist circulate the air and push moisture out the windows.

Using a wet/dry vacuum, remove any pools or puddles of water. The more water you remove with this procedure, the less water there will be to disperse naturally. Mop up the water and flush it down the drain in difficult-to-reach areas.

https://homeguides.sfgate.com/drying-out-house-after-burst-pipe-38214.html

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Floods can occur.

3/1/2022 (Permalink)

Even if you don't live in a very rainy area, a house flood is not out of the question. A burst pipe, an overflowing toilet, or troubles with your washing machine are just a few of the unpleasant conditions that can cause water to spill inside your home—as if you needed another potential calamity in your home to worry about!

While worrying about things you can't control doesn't help, you can be aware of the actions you should take if you find yourself in a messy—and perhaps toxic—situation like this. We certainly hope you never have to deal with a flood in your home.

https://www.realtor.com/advice/home-improvement/immediate-things-to-do-house-floods/

SERVPRO North Arlington of is here 24 hours a day 7 days a week 365 days a year to serve you in all of your restoration needs.

Mold avoidance

3/1/2022 (Permalink)

Mold avoidance

Eliminate moisture in your home to make it unfriendly to mold growth. Here are some mold protection DOs and DON'Ts.

DO utilize air conditioners or dehumidifiers to keep the humidity in your home between 30% and 60%.
Install exhaust fans in the kitchen and bathroom.
DO use bleach and other mold-killing solutions to clean your restrooms.
BEFORE APPLYING WALL AND CEILING PAINTS, ADD MOLD INHIBITORS.
DO check hoses, pipelines, and fittings to ensure that any leaks do not create moisture. To be safe, replace hoses to large appliances such as washers and dishwashers every five years: a common water hose costs as little as $10.

DO keep your roof in good condition to keep water from entering your home.
DON'T LET LEAVES AND OTHER DEBRIS clog your gutters; clean them on a regular basis.
DON'T USE CARPETS IN WET AREAS LIKE BATHROOMS OR BASEMENTS.
DO NOT ALLOW WATER TO COLLECT UNDER HOUSEPLANTS.

https://www.iii.org/article/protecting-your-house-mold

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of you restoration needs.

Sewer backup causes

3/1/2022 (Permalink)

Sewer backup causes

While sewage backups are not the cause of most basement water problems, the Civil Engineering Research Foundation states that the number of backed up sewers is increasing at an alarming pace of roughly 3% each year. Sewer backups can be caused by a variety of factors; here are some of the most prevalent.

Sewerage systems that are getting old? According to the American Society of Civil Engineers, the nation's 500,000-plus miles of sewer pipes are on average more than thirty years old. The increased number of residences connected to aged sewage systems has also contributed to an increase in sanitary sewer backups, flooded basements, and overflows.

Pipelines that connect? Problems develop when storm water and raw sewage are combined in the same pipeline. During many rainstorms, the systems are subjected to greater volume than they can handle, resulting in a sewage backup situation in which sewage spills into basements and other low-lying drains.

https://www.iii.org/article/protect-your-house-from-sewer-backups

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Wildfire protection for your home

2/12/2022 (Permalink)

No home is fireproof, but you may help prepare it by taking the necessary precautions.

Here are some pointers to help you make your home and property more fire resistant:

Dead vegetation should be removed from plants, and lower branches should be cut from large trees.
Keep leaves and twigs out of gutters, roofs, and other outdoor areas.
Take off all of the window screens and attic vents.
Keep the firewood at least 30 feet from the house.
Roofing materials with a fire rating of Class A should be used (the highest).
Install metal angle flashing along the edge of the roof.
Boxed-in eaves with an open design (i.e., where rafter tails are visible).
Where the wood decking meets the siding, metal flashing should be put (if the siding is combustible).

https://www.farmers.com/catastrophe/wildfire-defense/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Ins and Outs of Air Sampling

1/7/2022 (Permalink)

Ins and Outs of Air Sampling

Analyzing air samples isn’t cheap and, depending on the lab used, can cost $30 to $150 for each sample. Some inspectors roll sampling into their base price; others don’t. So make sure you ask.

Not every mold issue requires sampling. If you can see mold, sampling is necessary only if you must identify the actual mold species for medical or legal reasons. However, if you think mold is present but can’t actually see it, samples can confirm your suspicions. Also, sampling typically is used after cleanup to verify success.

Ask inspectors to explain why they’re taking samples and what hypothesis they’re trying to confirm.

If the cleanup is simple enough to perform yourself, a mold inspector can advise you on procedures, protective equipment, and tools. The inspector should also be able to pinpoint the moisture issue that led to the mold problem so that you can correct it.

https://www.houselogic.com/organize-maintain/home-maintenance-tips/how-eliminate-mold-your-home/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Warning Signs of Mold Damage

1/6/2022 (Permalink)

Warning Signs of Mold Damage

Mold will grow when a spore reaches an area that has (1) sufficient moisture, (2) the correct temperature range, and (3) a food source. Insulation, paper sheathing, carpet, wood moldings, or ceiling tiles can all act as food sources.

If you suspect a mold problem, the earlier an investigation takes place the better the possibility you can reduce or prevent widespread damages. There are a variety of physical warning signs that should lead you to investigate a home or commercial building for possible mold infestation. These include:

Visible mold growth
Discoloration or water stains on internally facing walls or ceilings
Discoloration or water stains on externally facing walls
Areas of standing water or condensation on floors, walls, or window sills
Musty odor

https://www.findlaw.com/injury/torts-and-personal-injuries/mold-warning-signs-and-damage.html

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Create a “defensible space”

12/13/2021 (Permalink)

The “home ignition zone” encompasses the house itself and everything up to 100 to 200 feet around it. Radiant heat from a severe wildfire can ignite a house from up to 100 feet away, and if there’s enough combustible material in the way, the flames themselves can quickly travel that distance. So if you happen to live in a wildfire-prone area, safeguarding just your home and the five feet surrounding it leaves significant risk on the table.

The area between 30 and 100 feet of a home is a property’s front-line defense against a wildfire. The principle guiding your preparation in this zone should be to create a “defensible space” that can prevent flames from approaching your home, and give firefighters a safe place to combat the blaze. Cal Fire and NFPA have great resources that outline the creation of a defensible space. For instance, once you remove fuel sources from the area immediately surrounding the house, the area between 30 and 100 feet out should be maintained as a “reduced fuel zone.” In this zone, plants should be spaced out, low-hanging tree branches should be pruned, and all vegetation should be watered regularly.

Steinberg notes that some homeowners go overboard when creating a defensible space by clearing the area surrounding their home of all vegetation. It seems counterintuitive, but well-spaced plant life can actually block wind-blown embers from reaching your home. A defensible space completely devoid of vegetation creates a “bowling alley” for embers, warns the California Chaparral Institute

https://www.sierraclub.org/sierra/5-ways-protect-your-home-wildfires

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Keep embers out

12/6/2021 (Permalink)

Keep embers out

Houses are inevitably filled with flammable materials (carpets, shades, furniture) so if embers have the potential to blow inside, virtually no home is safe. Thus, a second axiom to guide your fire-protection measures: Keep embers out. Cover any exterior vent openings with ?-inch hardware cloth. If you have a doggy door, make sure it seals properly, and leave it closed during fire season. Embers often penetrate through rooftop openings, so replace missing shingles or tiles, and caulk any cracks.

Windows are another wildfire weak point. Radiant heat can melt plastic skylights and cause glass windows to crack or even burst, allowing embers into the house. Double-paned and tempered glass do a better job of withstanding high temperatures.

https://www.sierraclub.org/sierra/5-ways-protect-your-home-wildfires

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Wildfire Defense To Help Your Home

11/5/2021 (Permalink)

No home is fireproof, but by taking precautions, you can help prepare your home.

Here are some ways to make your home and property more resistant to wildfire:

Remove dead vegetation from plants and lower branches from tall trees.
Keep the gutters, roof and outdoor spaces free of debris like leaves and twigs.
Clear out window screens and attic vents.
Move firewood at least 30 feet from the house.
Use roofing materials with a Class A fire rating (the highest).
Install metal angle flashing at the edge of the roof.
Box-in eaves that have an open construction (i.e., where rafter tails are visible).
Install metal flashing where wood decking meets the siding (if the siding is combustible).
Replace single-pane windows with multi-pane, tempered glass windows with screens.

https://www.farmers.com/catastrophe/wildfire-defense/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

How to prepare your home for a storm

11/5/2021 (Permalink)

Clear limbs and trim trees

During a storm, dead tree limbs can get loose and cause damage to a home’s exterior or even puncture a window. Heavy rain can also cause trees with shallow root systems to pull out of the ground.

Secure fences

Ensure that your fences are properly secured so to help prevent them from being lifted up and thrown against the house by heavy winds.

Secure furniture

Heavy winds can cause items like patio furniture and large toys to damage the exterior of your home. It’s a good idea to anchor outdoor furniture or bring it indoors before a storm hits. You should also move anything in your yard that can become flying debris inside your house or garage.

Check gutters

Help prevent damage inside your house by having downspouts drain away from your home and clear your gutters of any debris.

https://news.nationwide.com/how-to-prepare-your-home-for-a-storm/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

How to prepare your home for a storm

11/5/2021 (Permalink)

Clear limbs and trim trees

During a storm, dead tree limbs can get loose and cause damage to a home’s exterior or even puncture a window. Heavy rain can also cause trees with shallow root systems to pull out of the ground.

Secure fences

Ensure that your fences are properly secured so to help prevent them from being lifted up and thrown against the house by heavy winds.

Secure furniture

Check gutters

Help prevent damage inside your house by having downspouts drain away from your home and clear your gutters of any debris.

https://news.nationwide.com/how-to-prepare-your-home-for-a-storm/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Doing new construction or renovation?

11/3/2021 (Permalink)

Doing new construction or renovation

From where equipment is placed to testing valves and pipes, special considerations during your construction or renovation project could save you money in the long run. Some examples of pre-planning include placing valuable equipment on floors at or above grade, installing piping away from ceilings over critical and valuable equipment, installing valves in accessible areas, waterproofing floors above areas containing critical and valuable equipment, and implementing a procedure for plans to be reviewed prior to authorizing any construction or rehabilitation.

Protect against water-related risks under your own roof. While weather-related flooding grabs headlines, the potential for property damage and business disruption due to unanticipated water released inside your own facility demands just as much concern and preparation. By raising your own awareness of your risks, you will be better able to take proactive, positive steps toward prevention. We hope that some of the tips provided here may be of assistance in that journey.

https://www.zurichna.com/knowledge/articles/2018/02/a-cure-for-water-damage-to-your-property-planning-and-preparation

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Electrical fires

11/3/2021 (Permalink)

Electrical fires include any fire that starts as the result of an electrical failure or malfunction. According to the NFPA, more than 45,000 home structure fires ignite every year due to an electrical failure or malfunction, causing more than $1.4 billion in property damage and accounting for more than 400 deaths and 1,300 injuries. The most common types of equipment to malfunction and start a fire are fans, washers and dryers, space heaters, and air-conditioning units. Most malfunctions that result in deaths are related to wiring, cords and plugs.

How Fire Burns

Fire requires three elements to both ignite and continue burning:

Heat: Common heat sources include a hot stovetop burner, a spark from a worn electrical wire or a burning cigarette.

Fuel: Just about everything in your home can fuel a fire. As a fire burns, the heat created warms nearby items, making it easier for them to start burning.

Oxygen: The oxygen in the air around us fuels a fire.

https://www.thehartford.com/about-us/junior-fire-marshal/the-power-of-fire

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Document Damage

11/3/2021 (Permalink)

Document Damage

The next step in dealing with storm damageis to document the damage to your home. You can video record or photograph the destruction and create an itemized list of lost and damaged items. Depending on your policy, you may need to research the replacement costs for items before you can receive your settlement. If you must make immediate repairs to make your home livable, an emergency restoration contractor can help with assessing damage and cleaning up.

Repairs made prior to your insurance company’s inspection must meet the criteria for making your dwelling safe and to prevent further damage. This might include things like removing trees or tarping a roof. Use extreme caution when climbing ladders, walking in a damaged building, interacting with wiring, and cutting trees. If you’re in doubt of the safety of a situation, ensure a professional does the work instead of attempting it yourself. Keep any receipts for purchases relating to your storm damage to include with your claim information.

https://blog.familyhomeplans.com/2018/06/top-tips-rebuilding-home-office-storm-damage/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

In an Instant

11/2/2021 (Permalink)

In an Instant

A fire can start in an instant and continue to rage until its fuel source is depleted, destroying homes and property, causing injuries and taking lives within a matter of seconds. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), fire departments respond to over 350,000 home structure fires a year nationwide, causing almost $7 billion in direct damage. Far more tragic than property destruction, is the more than 2,500 civilian fire deaths and 12,300 civilian fire injuries annually. To prevent a devastating fire related loss, it‘s important to have a basic understanding of types of fires, how fires burn, and related dangers to look out for.

https://www.thehartford.com/about-us/junior-fire-marshal/the-power-of-fire

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year for all of your fire restoration needs. Let SERVPRO of North Arlington make you feel “Like it never even happened.”

Living in a House After a Fire

11/2/2021 (Permalink)

Many people assume that once a fire has been extinguished and the smoke has cleared that it’s safe to stay in the house. This is a totally incorrect assumption.

Fire Damage

The extreme heat generated by a fire might cause structural damage to your home that you’re not aware of. This might be further exacerbated when high-pressure water hoses are used by firefighters to extinguish the fire.

Even if your home has suffered no structural damage, debris such as broken glass, etc. might also pose a safety risk.

In addition to the above, millions of homes contain asbestos and lead-based paint. It’s not a health hazard if it’s left undisturbed and in good condition. However, a fire might release microscopic asbestos and lead particles into the air which might have serious health implications.

https://www.avnergat.com/is-it-safe-to-live-in-a-house-with-smoke-fire-damage/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Fire Drills: Not Just for School!

11/2/2021 (Permalink)

Fire drills are a big part of being safe in school: They prepare you for what you need to do in case of a fire.

But what if there was a fire where you live? Would you know what to do? Talking about fires can be scary because no one likes to think about people getting hurt or their things getting burned. But you can feel less worried if you are prepared.

Home Fire Drills

It's great to talk about emergency plans, but it's even better if you practice them, like the fire drills you have at school. Having a fire drill at home gives everyone a chance to see how they would react in a real emergency. You can see how quickly and safely everyone can get out of the house. Your family should practice this drill twice a year, every year. It's also a good time to remind your parents to change the batteries in the smoke alarms.

A good rule of thumb during a home fire drill is to see if your family can safely get out the house using the escape routes and meet outside at the same place within 3 minutes. For an extra challenge, you might try variations, like pretending that the front door was blocked and you couldn't get out that way.

Different families will have different plans. Some kids live in one-story houses and other kids live in tall buildings. You'll want to talk about escape plans and escape routes, so let's start there.

https://kidshealth.org/en/kids/fire-safety.html

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Does Insurance Cover Storm Damage?

10/29/2021 (Permalink)

As a homeowner, you can take steps to protect your home from the unexpected, like performing regular maintenance and installing a home security system. But you can’t control what the weather throws your way. Storms are unpredictable and can cause costly damage to your home and belongings. That’s why having the right insurance in place is so important: it can lessen the weight of getting your house — and life — back together after a storm.

Typically, your homeowner’s insurance policy covers damage from:

Windstorms & tornadoes
Ice storms
Hail damage
Lightning strikes
Wildfires
Fallen trees
Power surges

We want to make sure you’re confident your homeowner’s insurance is there for whatever you worry about. Let’s take a closer look at storm damage and insurance so you gain peace of mind you’re protected for anything Mother Nature throws your way.

https://www.amfam.com/what-does-insurance-cover/storm

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Mold Basics

10/26/2021 (Permalink)

Molds are part of the natural environment. Molds are fungi that can be found anywhere – inside or outside – throughout the year. About 1,000 species of mold can be found in the United States, with more than 100,000 known species worldwide.

Indoors, mold growth should be avoided. Problems may arise when mold starts eating away at materials, affecting the look, smell, and possibly, with the respect to wood-framed buildings, affecting the structural integrity of the buildings.

Molds can grow on virtually any substance, as long as moisture or water, oxygen, and an organic source are present. Molds reproduce by creating tiny spores (viable seeds) that usually cannot be seen without magnification. Mold spores continually float through the indoor and outdoor air.

Molds are usually not a problem unless mold spores land on a damp spot and begin growing. They digest whatever they land on to survive. Some molds grow on wood, paper, carpet, foods and insulation, while other molds feast on the everyday dust and dirt that gather in the moist regions of a building.

https://www.paradisoinsurance.com/business-insurance/how-deal-with-mold-in-the-workplace/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

How to Avoid Mold in a Vacant House

10/26/2021 (Permalink)

Fix any leaks and seepage, inside and out, as the most important ingredient for mold growth is damp environments. Eradicate leaks from sinks and showers by shutting off the main water valve outside.

Ventilate the home. Leave some windows cracked open if you feel it's safe to do so.

Remove debris from the home, including clothing or other items left behind by tenants. Clothing and other remnants of human life may become moist, creating a hospitable environment for mold growth.

Remove any plant life from the home. Mold can grow in plant soil.

Clean out the refrigerator, throwing out any leftover food or debris. Wash it down thoroughly with with anti-fungal products, vinegar, or bleach and water if you have unplugged it.

Get rid of any existing mold using a mold-removing product. Pay particular attention to the showers or bathtubs, where mold often grows.

Turn off the water to the toilet and get rid of all the water in the bowl. Mold will grow inside the toilet bowl and underneath the toilet seat if water is present.

Put plastic over dirt in crawl spaces and in the basement to help prevent mold growth. Also make sure crawl spaces and the basement are well-ventilated.

https://www.ehow.com/how_5879503_avoid-mold-vacant-house.html

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Property Claims

10/26/2021 (Permalink)

In general, if your property gets damaged during a storm, you should:

Protect property from further damage.

Cover the property if it is exposed to the elements.
Make temporary repairs, if reasonable and necessary, to protect the property from further damage.
Maintain a record of all expenses incurred.
Separate damaged from undamaged personal property.

Take photos of damage (if possible).
Prepare an inventory of damaged personal property.

List quantity, description and value.
Attach bills, receipts, estimates and related documents.

Retain damaged property until a claims adjuster approves its disposal (unless a danger to safety exists).

The adjuster may need to inspect the property.
The insurance company may be able to salvage the damaged property.

Expect to be contacted by the claims adjuster within two working days.Call your broker or insurance carrier if you have not been contacted within that timeframe.

If the damage significantly affects your continuing operations, your broker can request that the insurance carrier expedite your claim.
Inform your broker or carrier immediately if your circumstances change and this loss will have a greater impact on your business than originally anticipated.

Be prepared to provide additional information as requested by the claims adjuster.

https://www.valentgroup.com/severe-weather/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

What if You Can't Get Out Right Away?

10/6/2021 (Permalink)

If you can't get out fast, because fire or smoke is blocking an escape route, you'll want to yell for help. You can do this from an open window or call 911 if you have a phone with you.

Even if you're scared, never hide under the bed or in a closet. Then, firefighters will have a hard time finding you. Know that firefighters or other adults will be looking for you to help you out safely. The sooner they find you, the sooner you both can get out.

In the meanwhile, keep heat and smoke from getting through the door by blocking the cracks around the door with sheets, blankets, and/or clothing. If there is a window in the room that is not possible to escape from, open it wide and stand in front of it. If you can grab a piece of clothing or a towel, place it over your mouth to keep from breathing in the smoke. This works even better if you wet the cloth first.

If Your Clothes Catch Fire

A person's clothes could catch fire during a fire or by accident, like if you step too close to a candle. If this happens, don't run! Instead, stop, drop to the ground, cover your face with your hands, and roll. This will cut off the air and put out the flames. An easy way to remember this is: Stop, Drop, and Roll!

https://kidshealth.org/en/kids/fire-safety.html

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

What to Do After a Hurricane?

10/6/2021 (Permalink)

After it is confirmed by authorities that the storm has passed and it is safe to go outdoors, you can begin to assess any potential damage to your home and property. Follow these tips after the storm is over:

If you were evacuated, return home only after authorities advise it is safe to do so.
Avoid downed power lines. Never touch anything in contact with power lines, including water or water puddles that may be near the downed power lines.
Protect your property from further damage by boarding up broken windows to help deter vandalism or additional weather damage. Arrange for reasonable temporary repairs.
Be wary of any gas lines that may have been damaged or broken during the storm. If a gas leak is suspected, stay out of the property until the utility company deems it safe.
Be cautious of hazards that are a product of the storm, such as water due to flooding, sharp or broken objects, damaged tree limbs or other structures that may have been damaged by high winds or water.
Keep accurate records of your expenses and save bills and receipts from your temporary repairs. (Avoid making permanent repairs until your Claim professional has reviewed the damage.) Keep accurate records of any other expenses incurred.
Separate and inventory any damaged personal property. Create a list of any damaged contents, including a description of the item, name of the manufacturer, brand name, age, as well as the place and date of purchase, if known. Include photographs, videotapes or personal property inventories you may already have available.
If you think your home might be unsafe due to storm damage, contact your insurance company to discuss finding temporary accommodations.

https://www.travelers.com/resources/weather/hurricanes/hurricane-survival-guide

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

What to do in a fire

10/5/2021 (Permalink)

Knowing what to do in a fire can save your life.

If you can extinguish the fire, do so thoroughly.
If not, run for safety and call for help. To make your way through a fire, crawl beneath the smoke and be sure to avoid going through doors that are hot.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, house fires are responsible for more than 2,600 fatalities per year.¹ But it doesn’t have to be that way. There are fire protection steps you can take to keep your family safe in the event of a home fire.

Of course, prevention is the best step toward fire safety, but in case of a fire in your home, you’ll need to know exactly what to do.

https://www.safewise.com/home-security-faq/house-fire/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Tips for preventing water damage to your office

10/5/2021 (Permalink)

Seal cracks and gaps

Seal any cracks, holes, or other gaps in your building’s exterior and foundation to ensure that cold air doesn’t penetrate your building and warm air doesn’t escape. Caulk, weather stripping, and other sealants can be used to make your building more energy efficient and reduce the risk of frozen pipes.

Keep track of valuable items

Knowing the value of items in your building will help you replace them in the event they’re damaged by a water-related incident. If there’s a risk of flooding, move valuable items from the floor of your business – as long as you don’t put yourself at risk. If flooding does occur, you’ll need to ensure that the building has been safely evacuated and that all employees and customers are able to get to higher ground as soon as possible.

https://www.insureon.com/blog/tips-for-preventing-water-damage-at-your-business

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Preparing for a Hurricane or other Tropical storm

10/5/2021 (Permalink)

Make a Plan.

Hurricane season starts on May 15 in the north Pacific and June 1 in the Atlantic and the Caribbean. It ends on November 30. Before hurricane season each year, make sure you and your family are prepared b planning ahead

Write down emergency phone numbers and keep them on the refrigerator or near every phone in your house. Program them into your cell phone too.
Prepare an emergency supply kit
Locate the nearest shelter and different routes you can take to get there from your home. If shelter locations in your area have not been identified, learn how to find them in the event of a storm
Pet owners: Pre-identify shelters, a pet-friendly hotel, or an out-of-town friend or relative where you can take your pets in an evacuation. Local animal shelters may be able to offer advice on what to do with your pets if you are asked to evacuate your home.

https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/hurricanes/before.html

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

What to Do in a Storm

9/10/2021 (Permalink)

If there is a serious lightning storm over your house, start by taking precautions.

A general rule is the 30-30. If you hear thunder 30 seconds after seeing lightning, go inside and know that lightning could strike your area.
Unplug electrical devices in case of a surge. Do not touch any electrical device that is still plugged in – even a landline phone.
Avoid any faucet or fixture that has running water. Electricity can travel through pipes.
Do not stand on concrete floors or touch concrete walls. Electricity can travel through metal wiring inside of them.

These simple steps can help keep you and your loved ones safe if you do encounter a lightning strike.

https://www.myallianceinsurance.com/what-to-do-if-lightning-hits-your-house/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

House Fire Recovery Steps

9/10/2021 (Permalink)

Contact Insurance Company

As soon as possible after the fire, contact your insurance company. Don't attempt to do any kind of cleanup until an insurance representative has evaluated the site. Take pictures of the damage, and take steps to prevent further damage, such as covering a hole in the roof with a tarp. But don't set foot on the site until the fire department has cleared the area as safe. Your insurance policy may include a provision to provide living expenses while your home is being rebuilt or repaired.

Assess the Damage

With your insurance company appraiser, walk through the property and assess the damage. Note repairs that must be made and items that can be salvaged. If the home is a total loss, discuss your insurer's process for helping you rebuild the home. Most companies will remit payment jointly to you and your mortgage company. You'll need to negotiate with the mortgage company to receive payment.

https://homeguides.sfgate.com/house-fire-recovery-steps-52922.html

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Safety First

9/10/2021 (Permalink)

Safety First

Whether your house flooded, sustained wind damage or was struck by lightning, the aftermath of a storm can pose serious dangers. Live power lines, mold and open areas of your house can all put you at risk. It's wise to leave your house until you're able to evaluate the damage. Consider going to an emergency shelter, staying with friends and family or staying at a hotel until you're able to get an inspector to your home. Take a few day's worth of clothing and supplies if possible, but prioritize safety above collecting your possessions. Your insurance company might provide someone to inspect your home for safety hazards, or you may need to hire someone, but in either case, you should have your home checked for hazards before you return.

https://homeguides.sfgate.com/should-after-house-damaged-storm-58794.html

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Removing smoke damage from the kitchen

9/9/2021 (Permalink)

One of the most challenging cleaning tasks in a house is cleaning after smoke damage. Whether it is accumulated smoke or soot from candles or a result of a kitchen fire, smoke damage manages to stick to kitchen surfaces like counters, walls, and even ceilings.

It is very difficult to remove. If you do manage to remove some of the visible soot stains, there remains a lingering and distinct odor of something just got burned. This could be very irritating to breathe.

Nevertheless, there are practical home remedies that can be used to repair smoke damage and remove the irritating odor associated with smoke.

https://creativehomemaking.com/cleaning/kitchen/kitchen-smoke-damage/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year for all of your Fire restoration needs

Plan Your Escape

9/9/2021 (Permalink)

A home fire escape plan is essential because when a fire breaks out, every second counts. Remember, a fire can turn life-threatening in 30 seconds. And the majority of fires break out late at night or early in the morning when everyone is asleep, so your family needs to know what to do before an emergency happens. Before the worst happens, make sure everyone in your family knows how to get out and that there’s nothing to stop that from happening.

Create a Fire Escape Plan

To make a home fire escape plan, start by drawing your home’s floor plan using the NFPA's escape grid. Find at least two escape routes out of every room in your home, and map them on the grid.

Talk with your family, including young children, about how they can escape each room of the house. Showing them your home’s floor plan can help children better visualize where they should go in case of fire. Designate a meeting place outside your home where everyone will gather. It can be a tree well away from your home’s structure or a neighbor’s front porch.

Next, practice escaping each room with your family with a fire drill. Follow these steps from the Burn Institute’s Fire safe kid program to teach your family how to exit a fire safely.

https://www.moneycrashers.com/home-fire-safety-protection-tips-house-fire-insurance/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Keep mold at bay

9/8/2021 (Permalink)

Keep mold at bay

Indoor mold growth prevention is possible – moisture control is the key. When water leaks or spills are discovered, act fast. “A prompt response (within 24 to 48 hours) and thorough cleanup, drying, and/or removal of water-damaged materials will prevent or limit mold growth,” OSHA states.

Other tips include:

Conduct a walkthrough of your workplace to look for condensation or wet spots. Fix any water leaking issues you find.
Perform regular maintenance inspections on heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems.
Keep indoor relative humidity levels below 70 percent.
Ensure your building has adequate drainage and that the ground slopes away from its foundation.
Vent moisture-generating appliances, such as dryers, outside when possible.

https://www.safetyandhealthmagazine.com/articles/18306-help-prevent-mold-in-the-workplace

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Workplace Fire Good housekeeping

9/8/2021 (Permalink)

Make a point to regularly check for fire hazards:

Inspect cords for breaks, frays, and ensure they’re plugged firmly into the outlets.
Don’t overload power strips, surge protectors, or "daisy chain” these items together.
Avoid storing materials in front of emergency exits or fire extinguishers.
Keep paper products, aerosols, chemicals, and other flammable materials away from heat sources.
Keep appliances clean and free of spilled fats, sugar, sauces, etc.
Turn off tools or appliances if they produce a burning smell, smoke, sparks, or flickering lights.

Fire extinguishers

All businesses must have fire extinguishers and they must be the right type of extinguisher for your workplace:

Class A fires include wood, paper, and textiles.
Class B fires include flammable liquids.
Class C fires include electrical equipment.
Class D fires include metal powders and shavings.
Class K fire extinguishers are required for commercial and restaurant kitchens.

Your employees need to know how to use fire extinguishers properly. During an emergency it’s easy to forget important steps such as pulling the pin before squeezing the handle.

https://www.safeatworkca.com/safety-articles/5-ways-to-protect-your-employees-from-a-workplace-fire/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Take steps to protect your home

9/8/2021 (Permalink)

Hurricane force winds can turn landscaping materials into missiles that can break windows and doors and much of the property damage associated with hurricanes occurs after the windstorm when rain enters structures through broken windows, doors and openings in the roof.

While retrofitting your home to protect against these possibilities is undoubtedly an expense, you can do it in stages.

Replace gravel or rock landscaping materials with shredded bark, which is lighter and won't cause as much harm.

Cut weak branches and trees that could fall on your house and keep shrubbery trimmed.

Install storm shutters to protect your windows from breakage. Alternately, fit plywood panels to your windows, which can be nailed to window frames when a storm approaches.

Make sure exterior doors are hurricane proof and have at least three hinges and a dead bolt lock that is at least one-inch long.

Sliding glass doors should be made of tempered glass and, during a storm, covered with shutters or plywood. These types of doors are more vulnerable to wind damage than most other doors.

Replace old garage doors and tracks with a door that is approved for both wind pressure and impact protection. Wind coming into your home through an opening this large poses grave problems for the rest of your home—especially your roof.

Seal outside wall openings such as vents, outdoor electrical outlets, garden hose bibs and locations where cables or pipes go through the wall. Use a high quality urethane-based caulk to prevent water penetration.

If you live in a mobile home make sure you know how to secure it against high winds and be sure to review your mobile home insurance.

If you have a boat on a trailer, know how to anchor the trailer to the ground or house—and review your boat insurance policy.

https://www.iii.org/article/preparing-hurricane

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Create a home inventory

9/7/2021 (Permalink)

A home inventory is a detailed list of items in your house that you make in the case of theft or damage. Creating a list can be time consuming, but it is better to do so now rather than trying to make one from memory later.

A home inventory list can help you:

Buy the right amount of insurance for you and your family.
Keep track of all the items you have in your home.
Get paid the correct amount by your insurer for items covered under your policy.
Get your insurance claim settled faster and more easily.

Maintain your home

It’s important to maintain your home to prevent damage from a storm that might not be covered by your insurance policy. Here are four things you can do to maintain the outside of your home:

Remove dead limbs and downed branches, and trim trees that may fall and damage buildings or other structures.
Get your roof inspected regularly to keep it free of defects and in good condition.
Clean debris out of gutters.
Seal outside wall openings like vents, outdoor electrical outlets, and locations where pipes or cables go through the wall to prevent water from getting in.

https://www.opic.texas.gov/news/residential-property/spring-storm-prep/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Cleaning Up After a Storm

9/7/2021 (Permalink)

Cleaning Up After a Storm

Be very careful climbing ladders or working on roofs.
Use extreme caution if using a chainsaw to cut trees or branches.
Cover leaking roofs before the next rain to prevent further water damage.
Remove wet rugs and carpet from floors.
Open windows and run fans if you have water damage in your home.

Dealing with Insurance Companies After a Storm

Document damage to your home before clean up with photos or video, and compile a written list of damaged items.
Read your homeowner insurance policy thoroughly to see what is and isn’t covered before contacting the insurance company.
If you have trouble contacting your insurance company, try a multipronged approach including phone calls, emails, faxes, and letters.

https://todayshomeowner.com/dealing-with-storm-damage-to-your-home/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Stay Safe During a Hurricane

9/3/2021 (Permalink)

Personal Safety

If you must go to a community or group shelter remember to follow the latest recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for protecting yourself and family from COVID-19. Be sure to review your previous evacuation plan and consider alternative options to maintain physical distancing to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and update your plan accordingly.
If you must evacuate, if possible, bring with you items that can help protect you and others in the shelter from COVID-19, such as hand sanitizer, cleaning materials, and two clean, well-fitted masks that have two or more layers for each person.

https://www.ready.gov/hurricanes#before

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here 24 hours a day 7 days a week 365 days a year for all of your restoration needs

Many causes of office and store fires are the same as those for home fires. Prevention and escape planning recommendations are similar.

9/3/2021 (Permalink)

Many causes of office and store fires are the same as those for home fires. Prevention and escape planning recommendations are similar.

Employees Should:

Check for damaged or overloaded electrical outlets, cords or cables.

Keep anything that can burn away from electrical equipment.

Never leave portable heating devices unattended.

Keep workspace and equipment clean, dry and well ventilated.

Plane and practice multiple escape routes in case one is blocked.

Ensure windows can be opened and screened can be removed.

Remove any obstacles from exits.

Employees need to prepare for emergencies

Make sure smoke alarms and fire sprinklers are properly installed and working. Post clear fire escape plans on every level of a building. Teach employees about exit locations, escape routes and fire protection equipment. Check the condition of fire ladders and escapes. Conduct regular emergency drills.

https://www.usfa.fema.gov/stories/workplace_safety/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Hurricane Forecasts

9/3/2021 (Permalink)

Predicting a tropical cyclone's path can be challenging; there are many global and local factors that come into play. The storm's size and path can directly influence what sort of wind patterns guide, enhance or hinder its growth, and vice versa! Forecasters have computers that take huge amounts of data and try to predict where the storm will go and usually can calculate 2-3 days out fairly accurately. This is where you hear the terms computer models and spaghetti models being used. Generally the forecast track or path is given with the average consensus of these models. The National Hurricane Center has the most up-to-date information on tropical cyclone developments, forecasts and weather alerts, discussions analyzing the data and more.

https://www.stateofflorida.com/articles/hurricane-preparedness-guide/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

How to prepare for hurricane season

9/2/2021 (Permalink)

How to prepare for hurricane season

Precautionary measures can temper the ravages of these destructive storms. Hurricanes can shatter lives as well as damage property. Being prepared can help you, your family or your business minimize the impact of the storm. The best time to start is before the threat is imminent. Don't wait until a hurricane watch is issued, because it may already be too late to take certain precautions. Reduce property damage and get through any hurricane emergency with less stress by preparing before the season begins.

Plan your evacuation route well ahead of time

If you live on the coast or in a mobile home, you may have to evacuate in the event of a major storm.

While you'll no doubt get instructions from the local government, it's wise to create your evacuation plan well before a disaster strikes. This way, you can know ahead of time about the nearest shelters, take your pets into account in your plan, make sure to take important papers and make a trial run.

https://www.iii.org/article/preparing-hurricane

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Power Outages

9/2/2021 (Permalink)

In the event a storm should leave you without power, there are a few things to consider and help you be ready and stay safe outside of your normal hurricane preparedness.

Gas: Make sure your tank is full far in advance of an approaching storm. Most people wait until the last minute, rush to get extra gas for cars and generators, and subsequently gas stations can run out early.
ATMS: Have extra cash on hand in the event no ATMS in your area are accessible or working.
Cell Phones: Charge your cell phone and limit use after power is out.
A/C: This can be the most uncomfortable side effect of losing power during a storm. Try to prevent as much light from entering and warming the house by covering up your windows on the inside. If you have back-up or battery operated fans, don't run them unless you are in the room. Fans create a difference in perceived temperature but do not cool the room; instead they create a cooling effect by dispersing the heat off your skin. It is said they can actually add heat to a room just by running.
Water: Fill bathtub and large containers with water for washing and flushing only.
Food: Turn your fridge temperature down and/or freeze any food or drinking water that can be frozen if you expect a power outage. Have a cooler with ice packs prepared to cool your drinks and snacks after power has been out for more than 4 hours.

https://www.stateofflorida.com/articles/hurricane-preparedness-guide/

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Preparing for a hurricane or tropical storm

9/2/2021 (Permalink)

Preparing for a hurricane or tropical storm

You can’t stop a tropical storm or hurricane, but you can take steps now to protect yourself and your family.

If you live in areas at risk, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) encourages you to be prepared for hurricane season. The Atlantic hurricane season is June 1 through November 30 each year. It’s always important to be prepared for a hurricane.

Planning for hurricane season and other potential disasters can be stressful, and during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, it may be especially so. Your planning may be different this year because of the need to protect yourself and others from COVID-19

https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/features/hurricanepreparedness/index.html

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In the Workplace

9/1/2021 (Permalink)

In the Workplace

Leaks don’t just don’t happen at home. You should be on the lookout for leaks even when you are at work. Here are some ways to help find and fix leaks in your workplace.

If you see a leak – in the restroom, pantry, or outdoors, report it to your maintenance staff.
Organize a Fix a Leak Week event in your facility to challenge employees and tenants to find leaks and report water waste. You may even be able to get your local water utility to help.
Put up signs in restrooms and pantries to encourage everyone to look for leaks and report problems. Include information on who they should contact. Water Sense has developed some graphic tools you can use to communicate with employees on the need to report leaks.

https://www.epa.gov/watersense/fix-leak-week

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Wind Damage Insurance Claims

9/1/2021 (Permalink)

Strong winds and hail can cause damage to a property in many ways. For example, strong wind can damage the shingles on your roof, knock over trees and send flying debris into your home through damage openings. A standard homeowners insurance policy covers damage caused by wind.

Some homeowners who live in states that are prone to hurricanes may have windstorm damage partially or completely excluded from their homeowner’s insurance. In those cases you would need to purchase additional coverage through:

An endorsement to your homeowners insurance policy
A separate windstorm and hail policy
Through your state’s FAIR plan
Through your state’s Beach plan

If you have windstorm damage through your homeowners insurance policy, file a claim with your insurance company. You’ll be responsible for paying your deductible. In some cases you may have to pay a “hurricane deductible” which is often a percentage of the coverage amount for your dwelling, typically between 1% to 5%.

https://www.forbes.com/advisor/homeowners-insurance/storm-damage-insurance-claims/

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Skip The Soap And Water

9/1/2021 (Permalink)

Skip The Soap And Water

While soap and water may be an old standby for most house-cleaning jobs, it’s just not strong enough to kill mold spores. Instead, go for a commercial cleaner specifically designed to combat mold and mildew, or—if you’re uncomfortable using manufactured cleaners—use undiluted vinegar.

Working in one small area at a time, wipe the bulk of the mold off of nonporous surfaces using a cloth or sponge, and then use a scrub brush on stubborn patches or porous surfaces. Rinse the spot with plenty of hot water afterward. (Note: respect the laws of gravity by starting from the top of the mold patch. That way, the mess won’t run down into already-cleaned areas as you go!)

https://realtimelab.com/blog/how-to-prevent-black-mold-in-your-shower/

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Make sure your roof is in tip-top condition

8/24/2021 (Permalink)

our roof is always your home’s first line of defense against severe weather. This is why you want to make sure it is in great shape before a storm. Storm experts recommend hiring professional roofers to conduct a thorough inspection of your roof to identify any issues that may worsen during a storm. These experts will look out for clogged gutters, damaged or missing shingles, and any visible leaks.

Roofing gutters prevent rainwater from clogging your roof. Clogged gutters will cause water buildup which could overflow infiltrate into your roof and cause moisture damage.

It is also important to note that missing or damaged shingles create gaps in your roof’s surface, allowing strong winds to find their way beneath the adjacent shingles. To prevent this from occurring, you need a professional to come and replace all the missing or damaged tiles. The roofing company should also examine your roof for leaks because they pose a serious threat to the integrity of your roofing system.

https://thearchitectsdiary.com/5-ways-to-protect-your-home-during-a-storm/

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steps to help prevent wind damage

8/24/2021 (Permalink)

Fix what's broken

Maintain your home and fix things like loose fence boards or peeling roof shingles, to prevent even further, more costly damage in the event of a windstorm. The cost of repairs is sure to be less expensive than fixing damage after the storm.

If you have too little time before a storm, check if anything needs repairing and try to do a few temporary fixes to prevent damaged parts breaking off and flying around.

Secure outdoor items

Loose items like patio furniture, BBQs, garbage/recycling/compost bins and sports equipment can become dangerous missiles in a wind gust.

Before a storm, walk around your property—bring items inside or tie them down so they won’t blow around. Park your car away from trees, streetlamps and power lines. If possible, park in a garage. And don’t forget to bring your pets indoors.

https://www.thepersonal.com/blog/-/6-steps-to-protect-your-home-against-high-winds

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How can you prevent mold in your home?

8/23/2021 (Permalink)

The best way to deal with mold in the home is to prevent it from getting out of control. There is always some mold everywhere but there are ways to keep it from becoming a problem:

Clean and dry out your home thoroughly and quickly (within 24 to 48 hours) after water infiltration from leak or flood.

Keep humidity levels as low as you can – 50 percent is ideal – all day long. Window air conditioners, central air conditioning, and dehumidifiers in the dampest locations will help keep the air dry.

Be sure your home has adequate ventilation. Use exhaust fans that vent outside from the kitchen, bathroom, and laundry room.

Don’t carpet bathrooms or basements and use mold-killing products to clean bathrooms.

Add mold inhibitors to paints.

Maintain your home by keeping roofs, walls, windows, and plumbing in working order.

Keep landscape plantings six to eight feet from your home’s foundation to allow sunlight and air movement, both of which help prevent mold.

If you have a crawl space, install a vapor barrier between the ground and the floor above.

Keep downspouts and irrigation systems moving water away from your house.

https://www.mvtimes.com/2013/09/10/how-where-why-mold-grows-our-homes-what-do-about-17199/

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Never leave burning candles unattended

8/23/2021 (Permalink)

Never leave burning candles unattended

Candles cause an estimated 15,600 fires in residential structures, 150 deaths, 1,270 injuries and $539 million in estimated direct property damage each year¹. In many cases, candles were being used as a light source because power had been shut off or was temporarily out of service. Keep a flashlight and batteries on hand for emergencies to prevent the need to use candles for emergency lighting.

If you do burn candles, always:

Use sturdy holders. Keep candles away from children and pets.
Extinguish candles before going to bed.
Burn candles on even surfaces.
Keep candles away from upholstery or window coverings.

https://www.nationwide.com/lc/resources/home/articles/home-fire-safety

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Does Home Insurance Cover Frozen Pipes?

8/23/2021 (Permalink)

Typically, your homeowners insurance covers cleaning and required repairs due to water damage that is a result of a frozen pipe that has burst. If you turned off your heat when leaving your house for a few days, causing the pipes to freeze when outdoor temperatures dropped, your claim may not be covered.

Taking smart steps to maintain and protect your pipes can help you prevent a freeze-related disaster. Replace the thermostat’s battery and set your thermostat to a minimum of 55° when you’ll be away from home. If you’ll be gone for an extended period, consider asking a relative or friend to check on your house and make sure the heat is running as needed. If you’re planning to leave your home for the entire winter, winterize your home. This includes fully draining your home’s plumbing system and shutting off your water.

https://www.travelers.com/resources/home/insuring/does-homeowners-insurance-cover-burst-pipes

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Preparedness Tips

8/19/2021 (Permalink)

Preparedness Tips

Keep matches, lighters and other ignitable substances in a secured location out of the reach of children, and only use lighters with child-resistant features.

Practice your home fire escape plan with your children several times a year. Also practice stop, drop and roll and low crawling.

Familiarize children with the sound of your smoke alarm and what to do when they hear it.

Teach your children not to be scared of firefighters. Take them to your local fire department to meet them and learn about fire safety.

Teach your children to tell you or a responsible adult when they find matches or lighters at home or school.

Smoke alarms save lives. Install a smoke alarm near your kitchen, on each level of your home, near sleeping areas, and inside and outside bedrooms if you sleep with doors closed. Use the test button to check it each month. Replace all batteries at least once a year. Having a working smoke alarm reduces the risk of dying in a home fire by nearly half.

https://www.redcross.org/content/dam/redcross/atg/PDF_s/Preparedness___Disaster_Recovery/Disaster_Preparedness/Home_Fire/FireChildrenFactSheet.pdf

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Consider “Smart” Bathroom Timers and Humidity Sensors

8/19/2021 (Permalink)

Consider "Smart" Bathroom Timers and Humidity Sensors

Bath fan timers are important because excess humidity can cause everything from window condensation and mildew to moisture and rot inside walls. Some new wall switch timers have dual controls for turning off both lights and fans after a preset time. For the ultimate in smart bath fan timers, buy a humidity-sensing fan designed to automatically turn on and off as moisture levels at the ceiling rise and fall.

Squeegee your shower every time you use it

After a bath or a shower, squeegee water off the shower walls. That eliminates at least three-fourths of the moisture that supports mold and mildew growth.

https://www.familyhandyman.com/article/10-tips-for-dealing-with-water-damage-mold-and-mildew/

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What to Do During a Fire

8/19/2021 (Permalink)

It’s your worst nightmare: Your home is on fire, and you must safely get your family out. What do you need to do to survive?

Remember Your Escape Plan. Stay low and figure out the safest way to escape. If fire or smoke is blocking your primary escape plan route, make your way out using your secondary exit plan. Don’t forget about door and doorknob checking, the risk of backdraft, closing doors behind you, and getting others out if it’s your responsibility.
Call 911. Your priority is to get everyone out of the home safely. As soon as you’re out, call 911.
Cover Vents. If you can’t get out, keep the door closed and cover vents and door cracks with a cloth or blanket. Call 911 and tell the operator where you are. Signal for help outside a window using a cloth or sheet.
Protect Your Lungs. Cover your mouth and nose with a towel or bandana and do the same for your children to reduce smoke inhalation.
Stay Out. Once everyone is safely out of the house, stay out. Don’t go back inside for valuables. They’re not worth your life.

https://www.moneycrashers.com/home-fire-safety-protection-tips-house-fire-insurance/

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CHILDREN AND HOME FIRES

8/18/2021 (Permalink)

CHILDREN AND HOME FIRES

Fast Facts Children under the age of five are twice as likely to die in a home fire than the rest of the population, and child-playing fires are the leading cause of fire deaths among preschoolers.

About 300 people per year are killed and $280 million in property is destroyed in fires attributed to children playing with fire.

Just over half of child-playing fires in the home start in a bedroom, and bedding material is most often the first item ignited.

About two out of every three child-playing fires – and three out of every four associated deaths and injuries – involve matches or lighters

Children also start fires by playing with candles, fireworks, stoves, and cigarettes.

Only twenty-six percent of families have actually developed and practiced a home fire escape plan.

https://www.redcross.org/content/dam/redcross/atg/PDF_s/Preparedness___Disaster_Recovery/Disaster_Preparedness/Home_Fire/FireChildrenFactSheet.pdf

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Check the Outside of Your Home

8/18/2021 (Permalink)

Disconnect hoses

Standing water in a hose may freeze back into the pipe and create an ice block that, in a best-case scenario, stops your water flow. In the worst cases, it may bust your pipes and create damage to walls, floor and foundation.

Clean gutters and downspouts

Clean your gutters at least twice a year to avoid blockage and ice dams. Standing water can cause damage to your gutters and roof, and unmanaged overflow may create puddles that could damage your foundation.

Don't forget to clean downspouts to ensure water can flow through, and secure downspouts so that they point away from the home.

Maintain trees and vegetation

Thriving shrubs can be a beautiful thing — except when their roots wrap around your pipes and break them. That's why it's important to minimize landscaping near utility pipes or, if necessary, remove trees and shrubs that have become too big.

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The 7 Ways to Prepare for a Home Fire

8/18/2021 (Permalink)

The 7 Ways to Prepare for a Home Fire

Install the right number of smoke alarms. Test them once a month and replace the batteries at least once a year. Purchase smoke alarms here.

Teach children what smoke alarms sound like and what to do when they hear one.

Ensure that all household members know two ways to escape from every room of your home and know the family meeting spot outside of your home.

Establish a family emergency communications plan and ensure that all household members know who to contact if they cannot find one another.

Practice escaping from your home at least twice a year. Press the smoke alarm test button or yell “Fire“ to alert everyone that they must get out.

Make sure everyone knows how to call 9-1-1.

Teach household members to STOP, DROP and ROLL if their clothes should catch on fire.

https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/fire/home-fire-preparedness.html

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Rip Currents

8/16/2021 (Permalink)

The strong winds of a tropical cyclone can cause dangerous waves that pose a significant hazard to mariners and coastal residents and visitors. When the waves break along the coast, they can produce deadly rip currents - even at large distances from the storm.

Rip currents are channeled currents of water flowing away from shore, usually extending past the line of breaking waves, that can pull even the strongest swimmers away from shore.

In 2008, despite the fact that Hurricane Bertha was more than a 1,000 miles offshore, the storm resulted in rip currents that killed three people along the New Jersey coast and required 1,500 lifeguard rescues in Ocean City, Maryland, over a 1 week period.

In 2009, all six deaths in the United States directly attributable to tropical cyclones occurred as the result of drowning from large waves or strong rip currents.

https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/prepare/hazards.php

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How do you get the molds out of buildings, including homes, schools, and places of employment?

8/16/2021 (Permalink)

Mold growing in homes and buildings indicates that there is a problem with water or moisture. This is the first problem to address.

Remove moldy items from living areas. Once mold starts to grow in carpet, insulation, ceiling tiles, drywall, or wallboard, the only way to deal with the problem is by removal and replacement.

It is important to properly clean and dry the area as you can still experience health effects to parts of the dead mold and mold contamination may recur if there is still a source of moisture.

Remove or replace carpets and upholstery that have been soaked and cannot be dried promptly.

Clean up and dry out your home thoroughly and quickly (within 24-48 hours) after any flooding. Dig out mud and dirt . Use a wet vacuum to remove remaining dirt. Scrub cleanable surfaces (such as wood, tile, stone) with soapy water and a bristle brush. Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces (such as flooring, molding, wood and metal furniture, countertops, and sinks) with water and dish detergent. Dry surfaces quickly and thoroughly after cleaning. If you have a fan, air conditioner or dehumidifier that wasn’t affected by flooding use it to help the surfaces dry after you finish cleaning

Mold growth can be removed from hard surfaces with commercial products, soap and water, or a bleach solution of no more than 1 cup (8 ounces) of bleach in 1 gallon of water to kill mold on surfaces. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other household cleaners.

https://www.cdc.gov/mold/faqs.htm

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Tornadoes

8/16/2021 (Permalink)

For many areas around the U.S., damage from severe tornadoes presents a very real threat. Most tornado damage is done by high winds, with recorded speeds exceeding 300 MPH and the flying debris propelled by these fierce winds. The most damage from tornadoes happens in “tornado alley” – a part of the U.S. that includes Oklahoma, Texas, Kansas, Missouri, etc.

Lightning

You may be surprised to learn that lightning is a major cause of storm damage in many areas around the country. The National Lightning Safety Institute estimates the cost of lightning damage in the $5 to $6 billion dollar per year range. Lightning that hits trees and the ground is a common cause of wildfires, structure fires, property damage and power outages.

Snow Blizzards

Blizzards are severe winter storms that combine heavy snowfall, with high winds and freezing temperatures. The combination of cold, wind and snow damages homes, businesses and automobiles. Heavy snow can produce dangerous conditions, including roof collapse.

https://www.stormdamagecenter.org/common-storm-types/

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main reasons why home appliances leak water

8/13/2021 (Permalink)

Poor appliance service

Appliance parts wear. And so, when a washer hose is torn, water will find its way to your floor. But if the appliance had been maintained, the hose would have never had the chance to become damaged. So, one of the most common reasons for leaks is lack of preventive appliance service.

Incorrect appliance installation

Some appliances are easily connected. You just connect them to the water and electrical supply and are all set. But even if such tasks are easy for you, it doesn’t mean the job is always done right. Or let us put it in a different way: nothing ensures you that the appliance will run as it should. That’s because it takes a small component or a kinked hose to keep the appliance from running right and this eventually might lead to leaks. So it’s only fair to say that if you are no handyman, leave the job to an appliance technician.

https://www.universal-appliance.com/why-home-appliances-leak-water-how-to-prevent-such-problems/

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Checking for Leaks

8/13/2021 (Permalink)

To check for leaks in your home, you first need to determine whether you're wasting water and then identify the source of the leak. Here are some tips for finding leaks:

Take a look at your water usage during a colder month, such as January or February. If a family of four exceeds 12,000 gallons per month, there are serious leaks.
Check your water meter before and after a two-hour period when no water is being used. If the meter changes at all, you probably have a leak.
Identify toilet leaks by placing a drop of food coloring in the toilet tank. If any color shows up in the bowl after 10 minutes, you have a leak. (Be sure to flush immediately after the experiment to avoid staining the tank.)
Examine faucet gaskets and pipe fittings for any water on the outside of the pipe to check for surface leaks.

https://www.epa.gov/watersense/fix-leak-week

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Home Water Damage Prevention Tips

8/13/2021 (Permalink)

Check Appliances Frequently

Regularly checking your appliances for leaks can prevent larger problems in the future. Look for visible signs of leaks, including standing water near appliances or dark spots on the wall(s) nearby. Your home’s appliances contain some parts that can become brittle and break, leading to significant flooding if you do not repair them promptly. Fortunately, many of these parts can be easily replaced. Simple repairs include replacing the hoses in your washing machine, the filter in your dishwasher and similar parts in other appliances.

Install Water Sensors

Water sensors alert you when water appears in places that it does not belong. These sensors can be put on the floor near plumbing fixtures or appliances that use water. Bathrooms and laundry rooms are excellent places to use sensors. Some sensors even allow you to monitor their status remotely with an app on your smart phone

https://discover.alesolutions.com/home-water-damage-prevention-tips/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Mold Cleanup

8/3/2021 (Permalink)

Who should do the cleanup depends on a number of factors. One consideration is the size of the mold problem. If the moldy area is less than about 10 square feet (less than roughly a 3 ft. by 3 ft. patch), in most cases, you can handle the job yourself, follow the guidelines. However:

If there has been a lot of water damage, and/or mold growth covers more than 10 square feet, consult EPA's Mold Remediation in Schools and Commercial Buildings. Although focused on schools and commercial buildings, this document is applicable to other building types.
If you choose to hire a contractor (or other professional service provider) to do the cleanup, make sure the contractor has experience cleaning up mold. Check references and ask the contractor to follow the recommendations in EPA's Mold Remediation in Schools and Commercial Buildings, the guidelines of the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygenists (ACGIH), or other guidelines from professional or government organizations.
If you suspect that the heating/ventilation/air conditioning (HVAC) system may be contaminated with mold (it is part of an identified moisture problem, for instance, or there is mold near the intake to the system), consult EPA's guide Should You Have the Air Ducts in Your Home Cleaned? before taking further action. Do not run the HVAC system if you know or suspect that it is contaminated with mold - it could spread mold throughout the building.
If the water and/or mold damage was caused by sewage or other contaminated water, then call in a professional who has experience cleaning and fixing buildings damaged by contaminated water.

https://www.epa.gov/mold/brief-guide-mold-moisture-and-your-home

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Why is mold growing in my home?

8/3/2021 (Permalink)

Why is mold growing in my home?

Molds are part of the natural environment. Outdoors, molds play a part in nature by breaking down dead organic matter such as fallen leaves and dead trees, but indoors, mold growth should be avoided. Molds reproduce by means of tiny spores; the spores are invisible to the naked eye and float through outdoor and indoor air. Mold may begin growing indoors when mold spores land on surfaces that are wet. There are many types of mold, and none of them will grow without water or moisture.

How do I get rid of mod?

t is impossible to get rid of all mold and mold spores indoors; some mold spores will be found floating through the air and in house dust. The mold spores will not grow if moisture is not present. Indoor mold growth can and should be prevented or controlled by controlling moisture indoors. If there is mold growth in your home, you must clean up the mold and fix the water problem. If you clean up the mold, but don't fix the water problem, then, most likely, the mold problem will come back.

https://www.epa.gov/mold/brief-guide-mold-moisture-and-your-home

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Are you Prepared?

8/3/2021 (Permalink)

Snow, ice, sleet: Organizations operating in areas that have freezing temperatures have specific insurance needs. The basic “named perils” property policy covers your buildings and contents from damage or loss caused by specific perils, or causes of loss, named in the policy. These include fire, lightning, explosion, windstorm or hail, smoke, and more. However, these policies do not include coverage for falling objects; weight of snow, ice, or sleet; water damage or collapse.

The most common types of property damage caused by severe winter weather are roof damage or collapse due to snow, ice or sleet, and water damage from burst pipes or “ice dams.” Ice dams occur when water fails to flow properly through gutters, allowing it to seep into a building, damaging ceilings and walls. The resulting water damage would not be covered by a basic “named perils” policy, nor would any of these other types of damage.

High hurricane- risk areas: In certain high-risk coastal areas of Southern states (including Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Texas), the standard business property policy excludes windstorm coverage. In these areas, business owners might have to obtain their windstorm coverage from a state-sponsored insurance pool, while a private insurer writes the rest of their property coverage. We can help you determine the amount of coverage you need

https://www.bpj.com/resources/blog/avoiding-winter-storm-damage/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Major hazards associated with hurricanes

8/2/2021 (Permalink)

Storm Surge and Storm Tide

Storm surge and large waves produced by hurricanes pose the greatest threat to life and property along the coast.

Storm Surge is an abnormal rise of water generated by a storm's winds. Storm surge can reach heights well over 20 feet and can span hundreds of miles of coastline.

Storm Tide is the water level rise during a storm due to the combination of storm surge and the astronomical tide.

The destructive power of storm surge and large battering waves can result in loss of life, buildings destroyed, beach and dune erosion and road and bridge damage along the coast. Storm surge can travel several miles inland. In estuaries and bayous, salt water intrusion endangers public health and the environment.

https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/prepare/hazards.php#rain

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Insurance claims

8/2/2021 (Permalink)

Bad weather can wreak all sorts of havoc on your home. For example, fallen trees can damage your roof, lighting can cause house fires and power outages, and in some cases you might need to stay in a hotel while your home is being repaired.

If your home is hit by a storm, you’ll want to make sure you have the right type of insurance to help cover your losses. But there’s no one size fits all approach. You may need a mix of different types of insurance policies to cover storm damage.

For example, if you live on the Atlantic coast, you’ll want a hurricane insurance plan that combines homeowners insurance, flood insurance and wind insurance (if your home insurance doesn’t cover wind). It’s a good idea to get your policies in place sooner rather than later. That’s because flood insurance policies often have a 30-day waiting period.

But it’s not only big hurricanes you need to worry about. Even a nasty thunderstorm or blizzard can knock over a tree and damage your house. You want to make sure you’re prepared for all types of bad weather in case you need to file an insurance claim.

https://www.forbes.com/advisor/homeowners-insurance/storm-damage-insurance-claims/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

What to do in a storm

7/30/2021 (Permalink)

If there is a serious lightning storm over your house, start by taking precautions.

A general rule is the 30-30. If you hear thunder 30 seconds after seeing lightning, go inside and know that lightning could strike your area.
Unplug electrical devices in case of a surge. Do not touch any electrical device that is still plugged in – even a landline phone.
Avoid any faucet or fixture that has running water. Electricity can travel through pipes.
Do not stand on concrete floors or touch concrete walls. Electricity can travel through metal wiring inside of them.

These simple steps can help keep you and your loved ones safe if you do encounter a lightning strike.

https://www.myallianceinsurance.com/what-to-do-if-lightning-hits-your-house/

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Safety First

7/30/2021 (Permalink)

Safety First

Whether your house flooded, sustained wind damage or was struck by lightning, the aftermath of a storm can pose serious dangers. Live power lines, mold and open areas of your house can all put you at risk. It's wise to leave your house until you're able to evaluate the damage. Consider going to an emergency shelter, staying with friends and family or staying at a hotel until you're able to get an inspector to your home. Take a few days’ worth of clothing and supplies, if possible, but prioritize safety above collecting your possessions. Your insurance company might provide someone to inspect your home for safety hazards, or you may need to hire someone, but in either case, you should have your home checked for hazards before you return.

https://homeguides.sfgate.com/should-after-house-damaged-storm-58794.html

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What to Do When Your Ceiling Has Water Damage

7/29/2021 (Permalink)

What to Do When Your Ceiling Has Water Damage

There are few feelings worse than being confronted with water damage. If you have a ceiling that’s water stained, peeling and or cracked, here’s what to do.

Stabilize the situation

The first step is to stabilize the area around the leak. Move valuables out of the area and then break out a bucket and tarp to catch and contain any water that’s built up behind the ceiling. Chances are your ceiling covering is drywall, which will absorb or disperse the water. You’re better off controlling where water comes through the ceiling. Do this by creating a small hole at the center of the leak using an awl, screwdriver, or similar object, so that the water will pass though that controlled opening and into your bucket.

https://www.familyhandyman.com/article/what-to-do-when-your-ceiling-has-water-damage/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Tips for water damage repair

7/29/2021 (Permalink)

Once you've shut down the water source and electricity, you may be staring at puddles and wondering, "What now?" Now it's time to assess and do water damage repair—and do it quickly! Wet materials start developing very serious problems like mold after around 24 hours. You don't have time to wait.

Know the Different Types of Water

Believe it or not, there are three types of water. The first type is "clean" water from rain, condensation, leaky pipes, and so on. It's relatively harmless to clean it up yourself. But if you decide to seek outside help, it costs around $3.75 per square foot for basic water damage cleanup (replacements not included). The second type is gray water, slightly dirty water from dishwashers, washing machines, clean toilets, and so on. And it may have some contaminants. But you can clean it up yourself if you remove it carefully and with proper safety gear to protect yourself. Professional water damage cleanup cost rises to $4.50 per square foot. The third type is black water, such as sewage or serious flooding from nearby rivers, etc. This water contains waste, bacteria and other serious contaminants.

https://www.familyhandyman.com/list/12-tips-for-water-damage-repair/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Water Damage Repair

7/29/2021 (Permalink)

Replace Damaged Wood

All severely warped wood (particularly flooring), rotting wood and wood that has developed mold/mildewproblems will need to be replacedPry apart damaged boards and thoroughly clean beneath them before replacing them. And if the wood is a structural component of your house, you must be very careful when replacing it so that the structure has the right support during and after the water damage repair project.

https://www.familyhandyman.com/list/12-tips-for-water-damage-repair/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

During a Fire

7/6/2021 (Permalink)

During a Fire

Crawl low under any smoke to your exit. Heavy smoke and poisonous gases collect first along the ceiling.
Before opening a door, feel the doorknob and door. If either is hot, or if there is smoke coming around the door, leave the door closed and use your second way out.
If you open a door, open it slowly. Be ready to shut it quickly if heavy smoke or fire is present.
If you can’t get to someone needing assistance, leave the home and call 911 or the fire department. Tell the emergency operator where the person is located.
If pets are trapped inside your home, tell firefighters right away.
If you can’t get out, close the door and cover vents and cracks around doors with cloth or tape to keep smoke out. Call 911 or your fire department. Say where you are and signal for help at the window with a light-colored cloth or a flashlight.
If your clothes catch fire, stop, drop, and roll – stop immediately, drop to the ground, and cover your face with your hands. Roll over and over or back and forth until the fire is out. If you or someone else cannot stop, drop, and roll, smother the flames with a blanket or towel. Use cool water to treat the burn immediately for three to five minutes. Cover with a clean, dry cloth. Get medical help right away by calling 911 or the fire department.

https://www.ready.gov/home-fires

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Cleaning household textiles

7/6/2021 (Permalink)

After deodorizing household textiles, the items can be cleaned. Dry cleanable clothing and draperies should be taken to a professional dry cleaner. Some professional fire restorers will clean draperies and upholstered furniture in the home.

Carpets should be cleaned by a professional carpet cleaner. Sometimes the carpet will need to be cleaned twice. The first cleaning will be done before repairs begin, and another cleaning will be done after the house has been cleaned. If the carpet is wet after the fire, it will need to be dried before any cleaning can be done. In some cases it may be necessary to remove the carpet for complete drying. After the house is cleaned, the dried carpet can be replaced. Most professional fire restorers can clean draperies carpets, upholstered furniture and other textile items.

https://extension.missouri.edu/publications/gh145

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Kitchens

7/6/2021 (Permalink)

The heart of the home, kitchens are also the most common spot in the house for fires to start. Specifically, unattended cooking is the leading cause of kitchen fires and fire-related injuries.

These man-made fires are also easily preventable: Keep an eye on the stove, oven, and other appliances like toaster ovens, and move combustible items away from the stove. Never leave the kitchen when you’re working with high heat during preparations like frying, boiling, or broiling—fires need only seconds to go from a small flame to an out-of-control blaze.

A few more tips for safe cooking:

If someone else can’t watch things while you step away for a bathroom break or to help the kids, turn off the cooking appliance while you’re in the other room.
Turn off the stove and all appliances once you’re done cooking.
Keep everything off hot surfaces. Pay close attention to where you set dish towels or hot pads. Designate a spot, like a hook, to practice putting them back between each use.
Roll up baggy sleeves or wear a securely fastened apron over billowy shirts or bottoms to prevent singeing.
Do not heat your home with your oven.
Keep a Class B fire extinguisher or baking soda handy in case of fire. Water will only spread oil or grease and feed the flames.

https://www.safewise.com/blog/the-most-common-places-that-fires-occur-in-the-home/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

How can you prevent business water damage?

6/1/2021 (Permalink)

Water leakage damage in your place of business can be a devastating blow: Not only can it cost you quite a bit to clean up, but it can also slow — or even shut down — business operations.

Whether it's managing the distraction, sending employees home for the cleanup or losing equipment and records, water damage will inevitably cause your business to take a hit. Here are some strategies to help prevent water damage from happening.

Determining where water might come from can go a long way in preventing water damage in the workplace. Here are some possible water sources to investigate:

Appliances: Common sources for water damage include the water heater, clothes washers, dishwashers, refrigerators and air conditioning units. The age of an appliance is a major factor; over time, appliances that produce condensation often rust, increasing the chances of a leak. Water supply hoses on washing machines and dishwashers also may develop leaks. Hundreds of gallons of water can escape, resulting in significant damage to the building and property inside.
Pipes and drains: Plumbing systems are susceptible to clogs and stoppages, which can lead to overflowing appliances such as toilets, sinks and washing machines. Grease buildup in kitchen sinks and roots in sewer lines are some of the reasons for clogs and stoppages. In the winter, pipes can freeze, burst and damage the building and the occupants' personal property. A 1/8-inch crack in a pipe can release up to 250 gallons of water a day.
Roofing: Deteriorated, missing, or damaged roofing materials and ice dams can allow water to enter through the roof and damage ceilings, walls and floors. Inadequate attic insulation and ventilation can speed up a roof's decay and contribute to the formation of ice dams. Exposure to wind, snow, ice, rain and foot traffic can also affect a roof's ability to keep water out. Other roof debris such as leaves, branches, and moss can also prevent water from properly flowing or draining off a roof.

https://www.statefarm.com/simple-insights/small-business/water-leakage-prevention-at-your-business-precautions-and-fixes

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

House Fire Recovery steps

6/1/2021 (Permalink)

A house fire can hit you hard, both physically and emotionally. In addition to your home, you could lose valuable possessions and irreplaceable personal items. You'll need to take steps to protect your property, recover your loss and heal from the damage. After a traumatic event such as a fire, it's a good idea to ask family and friends to help you with some of the tasks you'll need to complete as part of your recovery. Their help and support will lighten your work load and lift your spirits.

Contact Insurance Company

https://homeguides.sfgate.com/house-fire-recovery-steps-52922.html

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

How to prevent water damage, mold after pipes burst

5/20/2021 (Permalink)

First, if you detect a leak, you need to turn off the water supply immediately then call a plumber.

According to the Insurance Council of Texas, most home insurance policies cover unexpected burst pipes and the resulted water damage. That’s why it’s important you document everything. Take pictures of the damage and keep receipts of expenses to fix it and clean up.

Mold can start growing in one day, so you don’t want to let water sit.

According to the Texas Department of Insurance, here is how you prevent mold:

Stop the water flow as soon as you can.
Dry the area immediately. Mold can start growing in one day.
Move wet items to a dry room or an area with fresh air.
Pull up wet carpets, padding, and rugs.
If you can’t dry the area yourself, use a service that specializes in cleaning up water damage.

https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/texas-winter-storm-2021-how-to-prevent-water-damage-after-pipes-burst/287-986ae4a9-ad44-48d7-a87b-1a05b618b7c8

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Safety after the storm

5/14/2021 (Permalink)

Be aware of hazards from exposed nails and broken glass.
Do not touch downed power lines or objects in contact with downed lines. Report electrical hazards to the police and the utility company.
If it is dark when you are inspecting your home, use a flashlight rather than a candle or torch to avoid the risk of fire or explosion in a damaged home.
If you see frayed wiring or sparks, or if there is an odor of something burning, you should immediately shut off the electrical system at the main circuit breaker if you have not done so already.
If you smell gas or suspect a leak, turn off the main gas valve, open all windows, and leave the house immediately. Notify the gas company, the police or fire departments, or State Fire Marshal's office, and do not turn on the lights, light matches, smoke, or do anything that could cause a spark. Do not return to your house until you are told it is safe to do so.

https://www.weather.gov/ffc/afterstorm

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Minimal Damage water leaks – What to do

5/13/2021 (Permalink)

Turn Off Water in Home– It is important to locate your water meter and turn off the water in your home before the leak results in more damage.
Clean Up Mess– If you catch the leak early enough, it is important to clean up the mess immediately. Failure to clean up a water leak can result in mold and mildew and present more problems down the road. For this reason, it is important to disinfect anything the water has touched. Be sure to be conscientious of what you are touching, and wear protective clothing such as gloves, boots, dust, and eye masks if possible.
Fix Issue that Resulted in Leak– If the leak cannot be fixed on your own, call a plumber to resolve the issue as soon as possible.

https://wateruseitwisely.com/what-to-do-when-you-have-a-water-leak/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

What should I do after my house is damaged by a storm?

5/13/2021 (Permalink)

The damage a storm causes to a home can leave your life suddenly upended. In the first days after a storm, you might be overwhelmed with the damage, with everything you have to do and with concerns about getting your life back together. But careful planning can help you return to normalcy as quickly as possible.

Safety First

https://homeguides.sfgate.com/should-after-house-damaged-storm-58794.html

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

How to protect your business from wind and hail damage

5/13/2021 (Permalink)

Having adequate small business insurance in place will help your business recover from wind and hail.

Strong winds and hailstorms can cause significant damage in very little time to a business’s property, resulting in costly repairs and potentially a lengthy business disruption. Beyond the typical structural damage from a storm, gale-force winds can push trees or projectiles onto buildings, and hail can shatter windows and damage your exterior.

Ensuring you have adequate small business insurance in place will help your business recover in the aftermath of a storm. But it’s also essential that you take steps to protect your property before a severe weather event. From regularly inspecting your roof to securing equipment and valuables, the following actions will help you reduce the risk of damage to your business in the event of a storm.

https://www.insureon.com/blog/how-to-protect-your-business-from-wind-hail-damage

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

What to do when you have a water leak

4/9/2021 (Permalink)

When your home is faced with water damage, it is easy to become overwhelmed. Your initial stress will probably result from the fact that your pipe just burst and your basement is flooding, or that your faucet has been leaking for weeks without your knowledge and you can’t possibly wrap your head around how you didn’t notice. After that initial stress sinks in, further stress arrives around damage control, as you scramble around your house trying to reduce the harm currently being done to your home. While a million different thoughts are running around in your head, it can be difficult to focus on what you should be doing. In order to know what you should be doing, it is important to identify what type of water leak you have.

https://wateruseitwisely.com/what-to-do-when-you-have-a-water-leak/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Why Was Coverage Denied?

4/9/2021 (Permalink)

Find out if coverage would have been available to you for this kind of damage through an endorsement. You have a right to know what is covered (or could be available) on your insurance for future reference. You may also want to figure out why you did not have it. If it is available elsewhere, consider changing your company for the future.

If you are convinced that your coverage should have applied, or that something is wrong, then you should consider getting a second opinion by a licensed professional or consumer advocacy organization that is familiar with insurance in your region.

Your insurance company may also have an ombudsman that can help review your file. You can also contact your state insurance commissioners for guidance or to file a complaint.

https://www.thebalance.com/how-to-handle-water-damage-claims-3860314

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Preventing water damage at your business

4/8/2021 (Permalink)

Preventing water damage at your business

In additional to the cost of repair, a burst pipe can lead to lost revenue if your business must close for repairs.

A burst pipe or other water-related mishap can be financially devastating for a small business. When a business suffers a flooding or freezing incident, it might have to close to repair the damage, which ultimately means lost revenue. If repairs aren’t taken care of promptly, they can lead to even costlier threats, such as mold growth and structural damage.

If your business experiences a water-related incident, you’ll need to act quickly to mitigate the damage. Small business insurance can also play a crucial role in lessening the financial impact. However, it’s best to prevent such occurrences from happening in the first place.

https://www.insureon.com/blog/tips-for-preventing-water-damage-at-your-business

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Prep your home for Hurricane season

4/8/2021 (Permalink)

Install surge protection

Power surges can occur instantly during a storm and can damage your appliances and electronics. You can add a power surge protector to your electrical panel and use power strips with built-in surge protectors to help protect your property. Your heating and air conditioning system may also need special protection.

“A power surge could result in immediate destruction to your unit, or … a slow and steady breakdown from repeated abuse,” said Christy Moore of Aire Serv in Brunswick County, North Carolina. “Adding surge protection to your home and heating and air conditioning system can decrease the risk of surge damage.”

Cover your air conditioner

You may also want to protect your outdoor air conditioning unit against airborne debris and projectiles, which can lodge in your unit and cause damage. Moore recommends a manufacturer-approved protective cover and warns against using a do-it-yourself solution such as a tarp or garbage bag, which could void your warranty and trap moisture inside.

https://www.usatoday.com/story/money/personalfinance/2017/07/15/9-affordable-ways-prep-your-home-hurricane-season/472268001/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Home Fires

4/8/2021 (Permalink)

In just two minutes a fire can become life-threatening. In five minutes, a residence can, be engulfed in flames.

Learn About Fires

Fire is FAST! In less than 30 seconds a small flame can turn into a major fire. It only takes minutes for thick black smoke to fill a house or for it to be engulfed in flames.
Fire is HOT! Heat is more threatening than flames. Room temperatures in a fire can be 100 degrees at floor level and rise to 600 degrees at eye level. Inhaling this super-hot air will scorch your lungs and melt clothes to your skin.
Fire is DARK! Fire starts bright, but quickly produces black smoke and complete darkness.
Fire is DEADLY! Smoke and toxic gases kill more people than flames do. Fire produces poisonous gases that make you disoriented and drowsy. Asphyxiation is the leading cause of fire deaths, exceeding burns by a 3-to-1 ratio.

https://www.ready.gov/home-fires

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Water Damage Repair

4/7/2021 (Permalink)

Water Damage Repair

Dry out the affected area

It's important to get rid of all moisture ASAP before it causes more damage. And for small leaks, this may not be difficult, but it's important to be thorough. Use fans to circulate air in the affected area. For larger projects, consider renting a large capacity dehumidifier to really dry out surrounding wood, carpet, and other materials. You don't want any moisture left after your water damage repair.

https://www.familyhandyman.com/list/12-tips-for-water-damage-repair/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Water damage & insurance

4/7/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage is one of the most common causes of home insurance claims. According to the Insurance Services Office (ISO), water damage claims are the second largest frequent insurance claim, following wind and hail damage Claims due to water damage impacts 1 in 50 homeowners each year. It's no wonder people have a lot of questions about water damage, what is covered under your homeowners insurance, and why things, like "gradual damage" are not covered. Things get even more complicated when we look at the exceptions.

There are many types of water damage that may be covered or excluded on a home policy such as:

Sudden or Accidental Discharge
Sewer backup or water backup
Overflow
Flood
Storm related water damage covered by insurance

There are some common questions people ask about what their home, condo or renter insurance covers, for water damage, here are a few of the most common questions:

Is a water leak covered by home insurance?
Is a leaking toilet covered by insurance?
Is water damage from a leaking roof covered by insurance?

The answer to whether these are covered or not depends on the source of the damage, the type of policy you have and if the water damage is accidental and sudden or gradual.

https://www.thebalance.com/how-to-handle-water-damage-claims-3860314

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Flood Insurance Water Damage

4/7/2021 (Permalink)

You would generally use the term "flooded" when you have water in your home. You might say, "My basement got flooded." It can be confusing when you're told that insurance doesn't cover flood damage, yet people get paid for "water damage floods." There is a difference between water damage and flood damage.

What is a "Flood" in insurance terms? Definition

Insurance would view a flood claim as a body of water overflowing so the level of water outside your home rises to a point where it enters your home. The official definition of a flood states that it's "a general and temporary condition of partial or complete inundation of two or more acres and two or more properties of normally dry land."

A good way to understand whether you have a real flood claim or a water damage claim is to determine if more than one home is affected. If so, you may be looking at a flooding situation or a flood claim.

If only your home is affected, you probably don't have a flood claim even though you feel that you are "flooded." The source of water and the cause of damage is likely one of the scenarios described above. If it is sudden and accidental and not due to maintenance, it could be a covered water damage claim.

A flood is generally not covered by home insurance policies. If you have concerns specific to your area, contact your local state commissioner's office for details about what flood insurance is available in your area. It can vary from state to state.

https://www.thebalance.com/sewer-backup-overflow-water-damage-4103166

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

How to Stop a Leaking Water Heater Before Damage is Done

4/6/2021 (Permalink)

How to Stop a Leaking Water Heater Before Damage is Done

Flooding caused by a leaking water heater can be one of the most aggravating and damaging home disasters you will ever experience. In addition to the mess caused by gallons of hot water spilling onto your floor, there is also the expense of cleanup and repairs. If your home has a water heater storage tank, here’s how you can prevent leakage in the first place and turn off the water supply automatically to prevent catastrophic flooding using an automatic water shut off valve should the water heater malfunction.

Avoid Leakage through proper maintenance

The U.S Department of Energy recommends routine maintenance for storage water heaters to keep the unit operating properly and efficiently and to prevent leakage. Procedures include:

Flushing a quart of water from the storage tank every three months
Checking the temperature and pressure valve every six months
Inspecting the anode rod every three to four years.

https://blog.diycontrols.com/index.php/how-to-stop-a-leaking-water-heater-before-damage-is-done/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

How to clean up after a hurricane

4/6/2021 (Permalink)

With the proper safety gear, such as goggles, hard hats, masks, heavy gloves and waterproof boots, begin the cleanup process. But before you begin, you should contact your agent, they may be able to provide assistance or help you in reporting your claim. Also, don't discarded or repair anything prior to reporting the claim.

Examine the area for hazards: Before any cleanup, survey the property. If there are any unusual odors, water near electrical appliances or outlets, the structure of the building is questionable, or you see any chemicals in the water, check with your local authorities and utilities to make sure it’s safe to return.
Begin drying out the building: If you’re able, remove only damaged drywall, carpets and pads, and pull off wet baseboards and cabinet kick plates. Keep samples of any carpets that are removed. Leave your home as well ventilated as possible. Document your damage by taking photographs.
Start the cleanup: If you do the cleaning yourself, be careful not to injure yourself or others. Keep track of the time and money you spend protecting your property. If you decide to use a contractor , get a receipt for the cost of labor and materials to give your claim representative. Don’t have any repair work done until you discuss them with your claim representative. It may be beneficial to get an estimate first.

https://www.statefarm.com/simple-insights/residence/what-to-do-after-a-hurricane

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Severe Weather

4/5/2021 (Permalink)

Wind Damage

Whether from a thunderstorm, hurricane, or tornado; high winds can damage roofs and rip off siding. Find out what you can do to protect your home before it’s too late! Hurricanes From high winds to severe flooding, hurricanes often cause extensive damage along the Gulf Coast and Atlantic Seaboard. Find out how to protect your home from wind damage, and what you should have on hand before a hurricane hit. Floods can be caused by prolonged heavy rain as well as the storm surge from a hurricane. Check to see if your house is in a flood plain, and purchase flood insurance if it is. Tornadoes Unlike hurricanes, tornadoes can strike with little warning in a matter of minutes. If you live in a tornado-prone area, a storm shelter is your best line of defense. Storm shelters can be underground or built as a safe room in your home. Snow and ice storms are a fact of life in the North, and can even occur as far as the deep South. They often result in tree damage and a lack of power, so having a generator on hand is a good precaution. Homeowners Insurance It’s important to make sure your home is properly covered by insurance from damage caused by wind, water, and fire before a storm strikes. Read your insurance policy carefully and make sure you understand what’s covered and make an inventory of your possessions to use for claims.

https://todayshomeowner.com/severe-weather/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your mitigation needs

Water damage restoration

3/5/2021 (Permalink)

After the flood waters recede and the clean up has been done, most folks want to get back into their homes or businesses and start rebuilding. The problem is that wood that has been submerged in water has likely absorbed a large amount of water. Rebuilding too quickly after a flood can cause continuing problems such as mold growth, insect infestations, and deterioration of the wood and wall coverings.

Flood waters are not clean water; therefore, most porous building materials must be removed and replaced with new materials.

Caution!

Inspect for structural and electrical damage from outside to determine if it is safe to enter.
Electrical safety is extremely important in floods. Check for fire hazards and gas leaks. Use battery-powered light sources.
Never mix chlorine bleach with ammonia or vinegar.
Wear sturdy shoes, rubber gloves, and eye protection.
Be watchful for fire ants, snakes, or other animals.
If mold is present, wear a respirator that can filter spores.

https://agrilifeextension.tamu.edu/solutions/water-damage-restoration-clean-up-checklist/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Dealing with storm damage to your home

3/5/2021 (Permalink)

Staying Safe After a Storm

Listen to the radio for advisories and other instructions.
Do not venture outside until it has been declared safe to do so.
Stay away from downed power lines and avoid standing water or metal objects near downed wires.
Leave and do not enter buildings that have sustained structural damage.
Stay away from damaged trees and dangling or broken limbs.
Do not swim or wade in flood waters.
Check on neighbors, especially those who are elderly or disabled.
Watch out for snakes or other wild animals.
Turn the gas off at the meter if you smell gas.
Do not drive unless absolutely necessary.
If you must drive, watch for undermined roads and damaged bridges.
Do not attempt to drive through flooded streets or bridges.
Avoid using candles or other open flames indoors.
Keep a fire extinguisher handy at all times.
Test battery powered smoke and CO alarms.
Make sure your sewer system is working before flushing toilets.
Keep pets indoors and use a leash when taking them outside.
Operate generators outdoors in the open away from windows and doors.
Don’t eat perishable food that has warmed to over 40° F.

https://todayshomeowner.com/dealing-with-storm-damage-to-your-home/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Why Freezing Pipes Burst

3/3/2021 (Permalink)

The best way to deal with freezing pipes is to prevent them in the first place.

But if the unthinkable does happen, you’ll have to act fast to minimize the damage and cost of repairs.

Why freezing pipes burst

Not all freezing pipes burst, explains Paul Abrams, spokesman for Roto-Rooter. But when one does, it's because water expands when it freezes, adding considerable pressure on unyielding plumbing pipes. That pressure can cause a tiny leak at a joint or crack on a length of pipe, unleashing the full flow of water inside your home.

Water damage from bursting pipes is one of the most common homeowners insurance claims, with an average claim cost of about $5,000.

How to Identify Freezing Pipes

A water line coated in frost (or bulging like a well-fed python) is a good sign that it's frozen, but not all plumbing pipes are visible.

“If your faucets won't flow and your toilets won't refill following a flush, that's a good sign your pipes are frozen,”

https://www.houselogic.com/organize-maintain/diy-repair/freezing-water-pipes/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

How to prevent freezing pipes

3/3/2021 (Permalink)

Wicked winter weather can cause plumbing pipes to freeze and possibly burst, causing flooding and costly water damage to your home. Taking preventive measures before winter sets in can reduce and eliminate the risk of frozen pipes and other cold-weather threats. "Some pipes are more prone to freezing than others because of their location in the home."

Pipes most at risk for freezing include:

Exposed pipes in unheated areas of the home.
Pipes located in exterior walls.
Any plumbing on the exterior of the home.

https://www.houselogic.com/organize-maintain/diy-repair/prevent-freezing-pipes/

How to stop a leak

3/3/2021 (Permalink)

Add a Block of Wood Before Adding a Clamp

If you're in a pinch and don't have the necessary tools around to stop the leak, you can improvise by adding a block of wood over the piece of rubber before fastening a clamp. The block of wood will spread the pressure and help prevent the pipe from collapsing.

Grab a C-Clamp

Add a C-clamp over the block of wood and piece of rubber to seal the leak for a temporary fix

Cut out the damaged pipe

If you're a little more well-versed in plumbing repair, you might take the next step and cut out the damaged area of the pipe. Shut off the main water supply valve, drain the damaged water line and use a pipe cutter to cut out a section of pipe that extends about 1 in. to each side of the leak. Start by gripping the pipe firmly in the cutter’s jaws and tightening the cutter’s screw. Rotate the cutter in the direction shown—as you tighten the screw handle—until the pipe snaps.

https://www.familyhandyman.com/list/15-things-you-should-do-when-you-find-a-burst-pipe/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

What to do when a pipe burst (and before the plumber gets there)

3/2/2021 (Permalink)

Catastrophes and natural disasters aside, a burst pipe is the bane of any homeowner’s existence. Winter is a particularly fraught time for weak pipes, when water freezes and expands with incredible force — up to 40lbs per square inch! First things first: if you’re experiencing a pipe burst, call a real plumber.

Turn off the Water main

Completely switch off your water supply. If you think the leak from the pipe burst may have reached any of the electrical sockets or the fuse box, take precautions and turn off the electricity, too.

If you own a house, you can usually Find your main water shut off valve somewhere in your home. Check your basement, crawl spaces, and areas close to the water heater. If it’s not inside, you can usually find it under a metal lid on your property close to the street.

https://meetflo.com/blogs/flo/what-to-do-when-a-pipe-bursts-and-before-the-plumber-gets-there

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Things you do when you find a burst pipe

3/2/2021 (Permalink)

A burst pipe is the last thing anyone wants to tackle. But there are some quick temporary fixes you can do to slow the impact of a burst pipe.

Shut off the water

When water freezes, it expands in volume by about 9 percent. And it expands with tremendous force: The pressure inside pipes may go from 40 pounds per square inch to 40,000 psi! No pipe can hold that much pressure, so it breaks open. The break may occur where the ice forms, but more often, it occurs where water pressure finds a weak spot in the pipe. That may be inches or even feet from the frozen area. You might also need to shut off the electricity as well, depending on where the leaks occurs and how big it is. Find out where your main water shut off valve is located

https://www.familyhandyman.com/list/15-things-you-should-do-when-you-find-a-burst-pipe/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

How Does a Water Damage Clause Work?

3/1/2021 (Permalink)

For example, let's assume that John has a homeowner's insurance policy for the house he lives in. One winter night, a pipe freezes and bursts, spewing water all over the garage and ruining the drywall. John's insurance policy has a water damage clause that covers damage due to burst pipes, so John files a claim and has his insurance company reimburse him for the cost of repairing the garage.

The following spring, a big storm produces six inches of rain in two hours. The ground is saturated and the streets flood. Water seeps into John's basement, ruining all the furniture, carpeting and walls. John's insurance policy has a water damage clause that says it will NOT cover damage due to flooding, so in this instance, the insurance company does not reimburse John for the cost of repairing the damage.

https://investinganswers.com/dictionary/w/water-damage-clause

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Maintain and understand your indoor plumbing systems

3/1/2021 (Permalink)

Inspect appliance hoses and faucets.Make it a practice every year to check hoses leading to water heaters, dishwashers, washing machines and refrigerator ice makers. You may also want to invest in a water leak monitoring and shut-off system that can alert you to any leakage issues. Immediately replace any hoses that have cracks or leaks, and replace them all every five to seven years.
Inspect showers and tubs. Check the seal and caulking around showers and tubs to make sure they are watertight and reseal if necessary.
When away on vacation, shut off the water supply to the washing machine and never leave the house while the washer or dishwasher is running.
Know the location of the main water shut-off valve in your home. A damaged hose or a burst pipe can send water racing into your home. Being able to locate and shut off the main water supply quickly will save stress, money and time.
Install an emergency pressure release valve in your plumbing system. This will protect against the increased pressure caused by freezing pipes and can help prevent your pipes from bursting.
Check plumbing and heating pipes. Look closely for cracks and leaks and have any necessary repairs made immediately.

https://www.iii.org/article/how-protect-your-home-water-damage

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Removing soot from household textiles

3/1/2021 (Permalink)

Before carpets, draperies, upholstered furniture and clothing can be deodorized or cleaned, the soot must be removed. Because soot is oily, it easily stains items. This is why upholstered furniture, curtains, and other textile items should not be touched after a fire. If a professional fire restorer is hired, they will remove soot with a heavy duty vacuum.

If you don't plan to hire a professional fire restorer, some of the soot can be removed by holding a vacuum cleaner nozzle slightly off the surface of an item to be cleaned. It is best not to use vacuum cleaner attachments with brushes or upright vacuums because the brushes tend to force soot into carpets, upholstered furniture and curtains. Cover carpets with plastic after removing the soot. The plastic will prevent workmen, inspectors and visitors from grinding dirt into the carpet. After the soot removal, the smoke odor will need to be removed.

https://extension.missouri.edu/publications/gh145

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Treat moldy areas & deal with mold on wood under paint

2/12/2021 (Permalink)

Clean areas that show signs of mold with TSP (trisodium phosphate) or TSP substitute mixed with water. Scrub affected areas with the solution until the mold and mold discoloration are gone, then rinse with clear water, and dry the surface with an absorbent cloth.

Mold growth under paint on a painted floor is a trickier issue. Your only recourse at this point is to remove the finish because paint creates a seal over the floor that traps water in the wood below. After scraping off the paint, scrub the wood with an abrasive cleaner, such as Barkeeper's Friend, or use a TSP-water solution with an added cup of ordinary laundry bleach per gallon of water. Dry the floor as described above after cleaning.

https://www.thespruce.com/how-to-save-water-damaged-wood-floors-1821661

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

When the Wind Dies Down

2/12/2021 (Permalink)

Watch out for debris such as sheet metal, glass or other sharp material.
Never touch power lines that are on the ground or dangling. They may still be alive. Contact Hydro-Québec or your local power company to repair lines.
Never go into a building that has been damaged by wind.
Test the quality of drinking water, especially after heavy rain.

Electricity

Avoid any contact between extension cords and water. Before restoring the power, have the electrical installation and heating equipment inspected by specialists, if this has not already been done, to prevent damage or avoid injuring yourself by inspecting them personally.

water from the Water Main

If you suspect that water intended for consumption is contaminated because of its taste, color or odor, purify it by boiling it for at least one minute. The municipality normally should send you a warning to boil drinking water in case of microbial contamination.

https://www.securitepublique.gouv.qc.ca/en/civil-protection/preparing-for-disasters/disasters/windstorm.html

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Understanding the Differences in Insurance Water Damage Coverages

2/12/2021 (Permalink)

If you're frustrated or confused by water damage coverages and insurance, you aren't alone. Below are explanations and definitions of the most often confused water damage terms and what you need to know about your coverage if you have to make a claim. You don't want to have your water damage claim denied.

3 types of water damage in home insurance

Some types of water damage are pretty straightforward. It's helpful to be familiar with three of them. When you call to make a claim and to find out if you're covered, the insurance company may use terms like:

Sewer backup or water backup
Overflow and discharge
Flood

The source of water damage is not always obvious. The insurance company might throw some of these terms around when you call to ask if you're covered in a water damage claim. Before deciding if it is covered or not they will have to determine how the damage happened.

The insurance company will send an adjuster to manage your claim and they will investigate the source of the damage to see if it is covered.

https://www.thebalance.com/sewer-backup-overflow-water-damage-4103166

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Water Damaged Wood Floor

2/11/2021 (Permalink)

Standing water and hardwood flooring don't mix. For anyone who lives in hurricane- and flood-prone areas that have historic homes, this comes as no surprise. If major amounts of water—flood-related or not—have come into contact with your wood floor, your floors will never be quite the same as new again, but you can take steps toward saving them from the junkyard. Your local architectural salvage yard might love to have your pulled-up hardwood flooring, but it's not time to give up the ghost just yet.

https://www.thespruce.com/how-to-save-water-damaged-wood-floors-1821661

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here 24 hours a day 7 days a week 365 days a year to assist with your water restoration. At SERVPRO of North Arlington we pride ourselves in making your water damage "Like it never even happened."

How to handle water damage to your business

2/11/2021 (Permalink)

People often worry about fires damaging their homes and commercial buildings. While fires are dangerous and can cause extensive damage to property, they are rare compared to another element that is in the home or building every minute of every day: Water.

Properties suffer water damage more frequently than they do other causes of loss. Water damage emergencies occur 14,000 times a day in American homes and businesses, according to insurance industry data.

In comparison, fires occur in fewer than 3,600 homes per day, and burglaries occur 8,200 times a day. The basements in 98% of U.S. homes will suffer water damage during their lifetime.

The average home water damage insurance claim is more than $7,000. Insured losses from water damage equal $2.5 billion per year, which does not include uninsured losses caused by floods and other naturally occurring waters.

Those waters can cause immense damage to buildings and the property within them. Just one to four inches of water causes an average loss of $7,800. The average loss caused by a leaky water heater ranges from $3,600 to $5,800, depending on the source of the leak.

https://www.lmcins.com/blog/how-to-handle-water-damage-to-your-home-business

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

There are several potential sources of sewer backup

2/11/2021 (Permalink)

Blockage of a city sanitary main:If the city main gets blocked, it may cause water to back up into your home through your pipes.
Aging sewer systems that require updates or repair.
Tree roots: When you have older pipes, sewer lines and water entry pipes, tree roots can find their way into the pipes and cause blockages. You can check for this problem on your own lines by having a plumber check your pipelines with a camera and do some basic preventative maintenance on your home.
City-related pipeline issues like combined pipelines or problems in the sanitary main: When the system you are using combines the sewage and stormwater into one pipeline instead of having a separate pipeline for each, these are combined pipelines. The system can get overwhelmed in a storm and the water can back up into your home.
Overflow or back-up of the drainage systems in your home. If your gutter systems or rainwater pipes are blocked or overwhelmed by debris or sudden water flow it may cause a back-up into your home.

Sewer backup is not automatically included in most standard homeowner policies. You must add it to your policy by endorsement to make sure you're adequately protected.

https://www.thebalance.com/sewer-backup-overflow-water-damage-4103166

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

After the Fire is out

2/10/2021 (Permalink)

Fires cause considerable damage to homes and their contents; however, "after the fire" activities can cause more damage. It is important to take immediate, appropriate action. Carpets, draperies, upholstered furniture and clothing usually can be refurbished after a fire, except for scorched or severely water damaged items.

Fire creates two types of smoke damage — the visible soot and the invisible odor. Because each fire is different, it is not possible to provide one set of guidelines for removing soot and odor. For example, smoke odor from wood could react differently to certain cleaning products than smoke odor from plastics. It usually is difficult for inexperienced home owners to remove soot and smoke odors without professional assistance or advice.

https://extension.missouri.edu/publications/gh145

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Fire damage cleanup

2/9/2021 (Permalink)

Soot, smoke, and water damage caused by fire can be pervasive, even if the fire was contained and quickly extinguished. It’s likely that every item in the affected rooms will need to be cleaned at a minimum. That includes walls, ceilings, flooring, furniture, and personal items.

Soot removal. Soot is an oily substance and can easily stain items it lands on. Don’t touch any items covered with soot, such as upholstered furniture, curtains, or carpeting, because you could rub stains in. A restoration service will use a heavy-duty vacuum to remove soot. If you try to do it yourself, hold the vacuum nozzle above the surface of the items to suck up soot, but don’t use the brush attachment because you might rub the soot in.
Ozone treatment for odors.The odor of smoke will permeate all textile items in the room, and they must be deodorized. The restoration service will use an ozone generator to produce an oxidizing agent to remove the odor. Often, the service will place the items under a tent while the ozone generator is operating. Don’t clean clothing and other fabric items before they’ve been deodorized because you might set the odor into the fabric.
Thermal fogging for odors. The structural elements in your home can also soak up the odor of smoke during a fire. That’s because the heat of the fire causes pores in wallboard to open and fill with smoke. As the house cools, the smoke gets trapped in the wallboard. Restoration companies use a process called thermal fogging to reopen the pores and neutralize odors. However, smoke odor can also get into the insulation in your attic, and there is no way to neutralize that odor. The insulation will have to be replaced if it smells smoky.

After the soot has been removed and odors have been neutralized, items need to be cleaned. Draperies and upholstered furniture should be dry-cleaned, and some restoration companies can do that in your house. The carpets also need to be cleaned professionally.

https://housemethod.com/maintenance/fire-damage-restoration/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

What effects can smoke damage have on a home?

2/3/2021 (Permalink)

Furnace Soot Spreads through Air Ducts

Furnace soot occurs from a malfunctioning gas-fired and oil furnaces. The ventilation system sends soot sediment everywhere, covering bedding, drapes, walls, cabinets, rugs, and furniture. The soot bonds to its targets, making cleaning difficult.

Be sure to maintain your furnace to avoid soot and smoke damages. If you detect the following, or if you already have furnace soot damage, call a professional maintenance company.

a lot of soot
Excessive sound
Cycling, whether short or frequent
The blower is always on.
The flame is irregular.
The furnace does not turn on or stay on due to a lack of heat.
Soot from Candles
Candle soot, sometimes known as "dirty house syndrome," is a visual condition induced by decorative scented candles. The particles are so fine that they cling to items, requiring you to deconstruct them in order to restore them.
Water damage is very likely if there is any fire or smoke damage. Whatever the type of smoke damage, it is unpleasant at best and will almost certainly necessitate professional cleaning and remediation. You may require damage removal, odor removal, fire damage restoration, smoke damage removal, newly painted walls, and so on.

https://www.youngalfred.com/homeowners-insurance/smoke-damage

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

What to do right after a fire

2/3/2021 (Permalink)

Watching your home burn is an emotionally wrenching experience. Despite the trauma, you have to act quickly after the fire is out to prevent further damage to your house. Delays can lead to further damage—such as rainwater entering your home or mold growing—that could drive up the repair costs.

As soon as possible, contact your insurance company to report the fire and to see what steps they want you to take next. These could include protecting the property, making an inventory of the damage, and contacting a company that specializes in fire damage restoration.

When the insurance adjusters inspect your home for fire damage, make sure they perform a thorough inspection. You want all the damage to be discovered and covered by your initial claim for fire damage. Areas to be inspected should include the:

Roof.Burning embers could have caused damage, or the wood underlying the shingles could have gotten moldy.
Siding and stucco. The heat from the fire could cause the siding to melt or the stucco to crack.
Windows. Heat can cause window frames to melt or blister. It can also cause glass to warp or discolor.
Plumbing and heating. Fire can damage pipes, ducts, and soldering or connectors.
Interior walls and framing. The inspector may need to remove some wallboard to check the framing or look for mold.

https://housemethod.com/maintenance/fire-damage-restoration/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

What should you do if your house floods?

2/3/2021 (Permalink)

Stop the flow of water at its source.

Unless the flooding is caused by a natural disaster, locate the source of the water and shut it down or lock it up. Turning off the main water valve to the house is the simplest technique to cease water flow. If possible, locate the valve before it floods so that you can quickly discover it in the event of a water emergency.

Switch off the power.

Turn off any electrical systems in your home after the source of the water has been turned off—but don't walk through water to get to the fuse box. Call an electrician if you can't reach the fuse box without stepping in water.

Evacuate the building.

If there is a burst pipe or sewage leak, vacate the premises and find a dry, safe area outside your home. It could be as close as the backyard or as far away as a neighbor's or friend's house. Check to ensure that everyone—kids, dogs, and others who may have been at the house—is safe and unharmed.

Locate a temporary refuge in the event of a natural disaster by asking authorities or listening to local news. As quickly as possible, get everyone evacuated to the shelter.

https://www.safewise.com/home-security-faq/house-flood/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Things you should do after your house floods

2/2/2021 (Permalink)

One of the most damaging and devastating things you can ever experience as a homeowner is a flood. There are many causes of household flooding including:

Heavy rains
Sewer back-up
Malfunctioning sump-pump
Burst pipes

No matter what the cause, you should still know what you should do if your house floods. Taking care of the problem earlier will help reduce the amount of damage after and will make clean-up and repair easier.

Safety First

The first step in any major home disaster is to remain safe. You may be forced to leave your home if the flooding is bad enough. Make sure you are also safe when you return to your home to begin dealing with the aftermath. This may include turning off the power, as water and electricity obviously do not mix. Be sure to wear protective clothing–such as rubber boots and gloves–when you reenter your home. Not only will you be dealing with the water itself, but also whatever else the water has been in contact with, namely debris or even sewage. It is best to protect yourself against whatever harmful chemicals and items the flooding may have washed in.

Be sure to never eat food that has been contaminated by flood waters, or even in close proximity to the water for an extended period of time. If the water was high enough to reach your refrigerator or any of your pantry cabinets, it is safest practice to go ahead and throw the food away and just buy more. Be sure to thoroughly wash any dinnerware, glasses, and flatware that might have been caught in the house flood before you use it again.

https://learn.allergyandair.com/house-flood-cleanup-tips/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Calling the Insurance Company

2/2/2021 (Permalink)

Your homeowners’ insurance will vary depending on what policies you have, but many insurance companies cover flooding due to storms, backed-up city sewers and storm drains, broken sump-pumps or burst pipes. The insurance company will send an adjuster to look at and assess the damage and determine if it is a covered loss. If your losses and damages are covered, the sooner you call the insurance company, the sooner they will pay out. Repairs can become costly, but the insurance money will help get your home back in order quicker with less of a financial burden on you.

Your insurance company may not be able to send an adjuster right away, especially if your flooding is part of a larger weather event. Document values of everything and take as many photos as possible before, during, and after clean-up. This will help the adjuster when he or she is able to come assess the damage.

https://learn.allergyandair.com/house-flood-cleanup-tips/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Drying out a house after a burst pipe

2/2/2021 (Permalink)

A burst pipe can mean anything from a sink valve blow-out to a water main fracture and anything in between. The most critical aspect of dealing with a burst pipe is turning off the water supply and stopping the flow of water. If the pipe is in a crawl space or a basement, the water is fairly well contained. But if the pipe that burst is in a household setting, such as a toilet feed or an under-sink supply line, drying out the area becomes a bit more complex depending upon how much water has inundated the house.

Open windows in the house to vent moist air out. Placing several fans around the area will help circulate the air and send moisture out the windows.

Remove pools and puddles of water with a wet/dry vacuum. The more water you remove with this method, the less there will be that needs to dissipate naturally. For hard-to-reach places, mop the water up and send it down the drain.

https://homeguides.sfgate.com/drying-out-house-after-burst-pipe-38214.html

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Fire prevention tips

2/1/2021 (Permalink)

While fires can be started by lightning, wildfire, and other natural causes, you can take many steps to prevent fires from starting in your home.

Stay in the kitchen when you’re cooking on the stovetop or using the broiler.
Keep grills at least 10 feet away from the siding or deck of your house.
Replace any frayed or worn appliance cords.
Use portable space heaters cautiously. Keep combustible items at least 3 feet away from a space heater, and purchase heaters that have a thermostat control mechanism that will switch the heater off automatically if it falls over.
Store matches and lighters too high for children to reach or in a locked cabinet.
Remain in the room while you’re burning a candle, and don’t leave children unattended in a room with a burning candle.
Clean and inspect wood stove pipes and chimneys each year.
Make sure a fire in the fireplace is completely out before going to bed or leaving the house.

https://housemethod.com/maintenance/fire-damage-restoration/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

WHAT TO DO AFTER THE FIRE

2/1/2021 (Permalink)

Claims for Insurance

Contact the insurance claims manager directly.
If circumstances have compelled you to leave the damaged fire building, notify the claims manager and provide a forwarding address and phone number.
The sooner the insurance company is notified, the faster the insurance claim can be completed, because the firm must notify the insurance assessor in order to do the inspection.
Make an inventory of household objects that have been damaged by fire as soon as feasible, either within or outside the affected premises. When the loss assessor contacts you, the inventory of damaged objects will help to expedite the claim. Do not throw away any damaged goods until the insurance assessor has completed an inventory.

https://www.fire.nsw.gov.au/page.php?id=312

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Claiming and Cleaning Smoke Damage

2/1/2021 (Permalink)

Claiming and Cleaning Smoke Damage

There is a saying that where there's smoke, there's fire. But that is not precisely true; sometimes, smoke damage can occur without visible flames.

Smoke causes various types of residue, dirt, and bad smells. It is a homeowners nightmare, and even at its mildest, it is a big headache to clean. Then you must learn how your homeowners insurance will cover a smoke claim. What Is Considered Smoke Damage?

Smoke damage includes both odor and physical residue left behind from burnt materials and includes different types of dirt, smoke odors, and even toxic particles. Some of the common smoke damage properties that require cleaning, repair, or replacement include walls, ceilings, window treatments, clothing, bedding, furniture, jewelry, art, books, and photographs.

Your home insurance covers smoke damage and professional cleaning. The most important thing for you to do, other than file an insurance smoke claim, is to pick the best public adjuster to assess your damages and a smoke remediation company to remove the smoke damages.

https://www.youngalfred.com/homeowners-insurance/smoke-damage

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Dry Wet Areas Immediately

1/13/2021 (Permalink)

Dry Wet Areas Immediately

Mold can't grow without moisture, so tackle wet areas right away. Seepage into the basement after a heavy rainfall, accumulation from a leaky pipe, even a spill on the carpet should be dried within 24 to 48 hours. If you've experienced a flood, remove water-damaged carpets, bedding, and furniture if they can't be completely dried. Even everyday occurrences need attention: don't leave wet items lying around the house, and make sure to dry the floor and walls after a shower. Don't leave wet clothes in the washing machine, where mold can spread quickly. Hang them to dry — preferably outside or in areas with good air circulation.

https://www.treehugger.com/how-to-prevent-mold-tips-4864317

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Floods can happen

1/13/2021 (Permalink)

Floods can happen

Even if you don't live in an area that's particularly rainy, a house flood is not out of the realm of possibility. There are a number of unpleasant situations that can cause water to spill inside your home, including a burst pipe, an overflowing toilet, or problems with your washing machine—as if you needed one more possible disaster in your home to stress out about!

While it doesn't help to worry about things you can't control, you can be aware of the actions you should take if you do find yourself in a messy—and potentially toxic—situation like this. We certainly hope you never experience a flood in your home.

https://www.realtor.com/advice/home-improvement/immediate-things-to-do-house-floods/

SERVPRO North Arlington of is here 24 hours a day 7 days a week 365 days a year to serve you in all of your restoration needs.

How Do I Know When the Remediation or Cleanup is Finished?

1/4/2021 (Permalink)

How Do I Know When the Remediation or Cleanup is Finished?

You must have completely fixed the water or moisture problem before the cleanup or remediation can be considered finished.
You should have completed mold removal. Visible mold and moldy odors should not be present. Please note that mold may cause staining and cosmetic damage.
You should have revisited the site(s) shortly after cleanup and it should show no signs of water damage or mold growth.
People should have been able to occupy or re-occupy the area without health complaints or physical symptoms.
Ultimately, this is a judgment call; there is no easy answer. If you have concerns or questions consult our Frequently Asked Questions database and ask a question if you don't find what you need.

https://www.epa.gov/mold/brief-guide-mold-moisture-and-your-home

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Why is mold growing in my home?

1/4/2021 (Permalink)

Why is mold growing in my home?

Molds are part of the natural environment. Outdoors, molds play a part in nature by breaking down dead organic matter such as fallen leaves and dead trees, but indoors, mold growth should be avoided. Molds reproduce by means of tiny spores; the spores are invisible to the naked eye and float through outdoor and indoor air. Mold may begin growing indoors when mold spores land on surfaces that are wet. There are many types of mold, and none of them will grow without water or moisture.

The key to mold control is moisture control.

If mold is a problem in your home, you should clean up the mold promptly and fix the water problem.

It is important to dry water-damaged areas and items within 24-48 hours to prevent mold growth.

https://www.epa.gov/mold/brief-guide-mold-moisture-and-your-home

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Smoke and ash damage from a wild fire

12/3/2020 (Permalink)

Smoke and ash damage from a wild fire

If your home was exposed to wildfire smoke and ash, you want to make sure it and its contents get properly inspected, tested, cleaned/treated and restored to pre-exposure condition. Damage to your home and possessions by smoke and ash is covered in your home policy. Payment for smoke damage to the structure of your home (walls, studs, wall-to-wall carpeting etc.) comes out of your dwelling coverage. Payment for smoke damage to area rugs, clothing, curtains, furniture, etc.) comes out of your contents coverage. No special dollar limit cap (such as you may find for mold) should apply, other than your overall dwelling and contents insurance limits.

https://www.uphelp.org/pubs/smoke-and-ash-damage-wildfire

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Be thorough when documenting damage

12/3/2020 (Permalink)

Be thorough when documenting damage

Your insurance policy will likely cover losses you experienced in the fire. With that in mind, your first job after experiencing smoke damage in a fire is to thoroughly document your losses and damages.

Make a list of information that includes all of the following about your property:

-Date of Loss

-Type of Loss or Damage

-Location of Damage

-Any Related Injuries

-Others Involved

-Condition of the Home

-Description of Damaged Contents

-Whether or Not Temporary Repairs or Complete Replacements Are Necessary

-A Police and Fire Department Report

Remember: your insurance company likely requires you to contact them within a certain amount of time after a loss has occurred. Make sure you know that amount of time and file your insurance damage claims on-time.

During the insurance claims process, you’re likely going to exchange hundreds of emails and documents with your insurance company over the next few months. Make sure you document everything. Get a binder or good storage system, to start and keep things as organized as possible.

https://claimsmate.com/4-things-you-need-to-know-about-smoke-damage-insurance-claims/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Other Cleaning Tips

12/1/2020 (Permalink)

Other Cleaning Tips

Consult a professional about replacing drywall and insulation that has been soaked by water from fire hoses. It cannot be dried out and maintain structural integrity or resistance to mold and mildew.

Pots, pans, flatware, etc., should be washed with soapy water, rinsed and then polished.

Stuff purses and shoes with newspapers to retain shape. Leave suitcases open.

Wear protective clothing, including work gloves and heavy soled shoes.

Learn more about how to clean up after a home fire, including the supplies you’ll need, how to deal with contaminated food and water, and how to repair smoke and water damage.

Follow public health guidance on safe cleanup of fire ash and safe use of masks.

Wet debris down to minimize breathing dust particles.

https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/fire/cleaning-up-after-fire.html

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

After a windstorm

11/5/2020 (Permalink)

After a windstorm

Take some time to inspect your house and property for debris and damage. If your building smells of gas, stay outside. You should also keep away from downed power lines and contact your local power company to come and have a look.

Let your insurance provider know if wind has damaged your home so they can walk you through the claims process, and don’t forget to make an inventory of your damaged property , Link opens in a new window. , Important: This PDF is intended for printing. It has not been optimized for screen readers..

Be ready next time

There are some great tools on the market that can warn you of severe weather. Check out Radar. It’s an alert service that notifies you if a storm is headed your way—and it’s available free on The Personal mobile app.

https://www.thepersonal.com/blog/-/6-steps-to-protect-your-home-against-high-winds

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Checking your Home after a Fire

11/4/2020 (Permalink)

Checking your Home after a Fire

Do not cut or walk past colored tape that was placed over doors or windows to mark damaged areas unless local authorities advise that it is safe to do so. If a building inspector has placed a color-coded sign on the home, do not enter it until you get more information, advice and instructions about what the sign means and whether it is safe to enter your home.

If you have children, leave them with a relative or friend while you conduct your first inspection of your home after the fire. The site may be unsafe for children, and seeing the damage firsthand may upset them and cause long-term effects, including nightmares.

https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/fire/checking-home-after-fire.html

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Electrical, Plumbing and Heating Systems

11/4/2020 (Permalink)

Electrical, Plumbing and Heating Systems

If you see sparks, broken or frayed wires, or if you smell hot insulation, turn off the electricity at the main fuse box or circuit breaker.

If there is a pool of water on the floor between you and the fuse box or circuit breaker panel, use a dry wooden stick to try to reach to turn off the main fuse or breaker, but do not step or stand in water to do that. If you cannot reach the fuse box or breaker panel, call a qualified electrician for assistance.

Inspect the panel box for any breakers that may have tripped. A tripped breaker may indicate damaged wiring inside your home. Do not turn them on. Call an electrician.

Use a flashlight to inspect fuses. Replace broken fuses with exactly the same amperage rating and never use an object such as a coin or strip of metal to bypass the protection that fuses provide.

If you suspect sewage lines are damaged, avoid using sinks, showers or toilets and call a plumber.

If water pipes are damaged, turn off the water at the main valve. Call a plumber for assistance.

If you have a heating oil tank system, turn off all valves and contact a professional specializing in maintenance of such equipment before using it again.

https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/fire/checking-home-after-fire.html

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How to clean up Smoke and Soot from a fire

11/4/2020 (Permalink)

How to clean up Smoke and Soot from a fire

Cleaning Techniques for Specific Types of Damage for Damage Due to High-Oxygen Fires: Use dry sponges to remove initial deposits and follow with a low-alkali detergent, then rinse. For Damage Due to Low-Oxygen Fires: Do not use a dry sponge as this may create smears and cause the soot to spread. High-alkali detergents are recommended with warm water and wash down. Remember to rinse thoroughly, as residue may affect subsequent paint applications. For Damage Due to Kitchen Fires: Thorough cleaning is required, as residue may not be readily visible. Remember that usually kitchen cabinets and drawer contents will need to be removed to allow access to hidden areas.

Cleaning of Heavy Residue: This may require assistance from professionals and mechanical cleaning. Cleaning methods include the following: · Low-pressure sandblasting · Sodium bicarbonate blasting · Dry ice blasting · Power washing with steam · Chemical application and agitation · Non-destructive rubber blasting.

http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/eh/docs/emergunit/cleanFireDamage.pdf

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What Businesses Should Know About Water Damage

11/2/2020 (Permalink)

What Businesses Should Know About Water Damage

Conduct a water damage risk assessment.

A qualified insurance risk engineer can help you spot any issues and prevent water damage from happening in the first place. You’ll want to inspect all appliances that use water, including those in bathrooms, kitchens, and all water supply lines for high humidity levels, damaged pipes and hoses, and other plumbing leaks. Installing a water leak detection and shut-off system can help ensure that if a leak does occur, it can be caught early enough to mitigate damage

Develop a plan and train the right people.

Work with a qualified insurance risk engineer to put together a water damage response plan that will help you to minimize damage to property and quickly restore your business operations in the event of a water damage event. Make sure to train all security, facilities, and property management staff, and conduct refresher courses each year.

https://www.chubb.com/us-en/businesses/resources/what-businesses-should-know-about-water-damage.aspx

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Fire Escape Planning for Older Adults and People with Access or Functional Needs

11/2/2020 (Permalink)

Fire Escape Planning for Older Adults and People with Access or Functional Needs

Live near an exit. You'll be safest on the ground floor if you live in an apartment building. If you live in a multi-story home, arrange to sleep on the ground floor and near an exit.
If you use a walker or wheelchair, check all exits to be sure you get through the doorways.
Make any necessary accommodations – such as providing exit ramps and widening doorways – to facilitate an emergency escape.
Speak to your family members, building manager or neighbors about your fire safety plan and practice it with them.
Contact your local fire department's non-emergency line and explain your special needs. Ask emergency providers to keep your special needs information on file.
Keep a phone near your bed and be ready to call 9-1-1 or your local emergency number if a fire occurs.

https://www.ready.gov/home-fires

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Help Prevent Wind Damage

11/2/2020 (Permalink)

Help Prevent Wind Damage

Fix what’s broken

If you have too little time before a storm, check if anything needs repairing and try to do a few temporary fixes to prevent damaged parts breaking off and flying around.

Secure outdoor items

Loose items like patio furniture, BBQs, garbage/recycling/compost bins and sports equipment can become dangerous missiles in a wind gust.

https://www.thepersonal.com/blog/-/6-steps-to-protect-your-home-against-high-winds

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

What to do Before a Flood

10/19/2020 (Permalink)

What to do Before a Flood

IN THE CASE OF A FLOOD WARNING:

Move basement or main floor items to the top floor.
Safely store away chemical or harmful products such as insecticides and waste oil residue and make sure these are out of reach of children.
Block all basement sewer conduits if they are not protected by a check valve.
Block the basement drain.

ELECTRICITY AND NATURAL GAS

Shut off the gas and electricity. If the water level starts to rise, make sure your feet are on a dry surface and use a wooden stick to shut off the electricity to the house. If the water starts to enter your home, don’t touch anything and immediately call Hydro-Québec at 1800 790-2424 to ask them to disconnect the electricity.
Shut off the main gas valve and make sure all propane tanks are tightly closed.
Shut off the tap near the outlet valve on the oil tank.

OUTDOORS

Remove or secure all mobile items in the yard to prevent them from being thrown or swept away.
If your municipality provides sandbags, install a trench filled with sandbags.

STAY INFORMED

Monitor the situation on the radio, on television or on the Internet and rely only on official information sources. Follow the safety instructions that you receive.

https://www.securitepublique.gouv.qc.ca/en/civil-protection/floods-information-citizens.html

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Hidden Mold

10/16/2020 (Permalink)

Hidden Mold

Suspicion of hidden mold

You may suspect hidden mold if a building smells moldy, but you cannot see the source, or if you know there has been water damage and residents are reporting health problems. Mold may be hidden in places such as the back side of dry wall, wallpaper, or paneling, the top side of ceiling tiles, the underside of carpets and pads, etc. Other possible locations of hidden mold include areas inside walls around pipes (with leaking or condensing pipes), the surface of walls behind furniture (where condensation forms), inside ductwork, and in roof materials above ceiling tiles (due to roof leaks or insufficient insulation).

Investigating hidden mold problems

Investigating hidden mold problems may be difficult and will require caution when the investigation involves disturbing potential sites of mold growth. For example, removal of wallpaper can lead to a massive release of spores if there is mold growing on the underside of the paper. If you believe that you may have a hidden mold problem, consider hiring an experienced professional.

https://www.epa.gov/mold/brief-guide-mold-moisture-and-your-home

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Before a Fire

10/12/2020 (Permalink)

Before a Fire

Create and Practice a Fire Escape Plan

In the event of a fire, remember that every second counts. Escape plans help you get out of your home quickly. Twice each year, practice your home fire escape plan. Some tips to consider when preparing this plan include:

Find two ways to get out of each room in the event the primary way is blocked by fire or smoke.
A secondary route might be a window onto a neighboring roof or a collapsible ladder for escape from upper story windows.
Make sure that windows are not stuck, screens can be taken out quickly and that security bars can be properly opened.
Practice feeling your way out of the house in the dark or with your eyes closed.
Teach children not to hide from firefighters.

https://www.ready.gov/home-fires

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Do you need a Shelter

10/9/2020 (Permalink)

Do You Need a Shelter? On the basis of 40 years of tornado history and more than 100 years of hurricane history, the United States has been divided into four zones that geographically reflect the number and strength of extreme windstorms. Zone IV has experienced the most and the strongest tornado activity. Zone III has experienced significant tornado activity and includes coastal areas that are susceptible to hurricanes. To learn more about the wind history for the area where you live, check with your local building official, meteorologist, emergency management official, or television weather reporter. Your house is probably built in accordance with local building codes that consider the effects of minimum, “code-approved” design winds in your area. Building codes require that buildings be able to withstand a “design” wind event. A tornado or extreme hurricane can cause winds much greater than those on which local code requirements are based. Having a house built to “code” does not mean that your house can withstand wind from any event, no matter how extreme.

https://www.fema.gov/pdf/library/ism2.pdf

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Basis of Shelter Design

10/9/2020 (Permalink)

Basis of Shelter Design

The purpose of a shelter is to provide a space where you and your family can survive a tornado or hurricane with little or no injury. In hurricane-prone areas, the shelter cannot be built where it can be flooded during a hurricane. Your shelter should be readily accessible from all parts of your house, and it should be free of clutter. To protect the occupants during extreme windstorms, the shelter must be adequately anchored to the house foundation to resist overturning and uplift. The connections between all parts of the shelter must be strong enough to resist failure, and the walls, roof, and door must resist penetration by windborne missiles.

https://www.fema.gov/pdf/library/ism2.pdf

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Tips for preventing water damage at your business

10/9/2020 (Permalink)

Tips for preventing water damage at your business. Keep track of valuable items.

Protect your business with insurance.

It’s important to have adequate insurance in place in the event that you do experience water or freezing damage. When it comes to small business insurance, the details of your coverage matter.

Many commercial property insurance policies will cover the cost of pipe breakage but will exclude damage from flooding, groundwater, and backed-up sewer lines. Your insurer will likely look at the source of the water damage when you make a claim and decide whether you’re covered. You can ask your insurer to add a rider, or an endorsement, to your policy to extend coverage to hazards that are excluded from your policy to ensure your business is protected.

https://www.insureon.com/blog/tips-for-preventing-water-damage-at-your-business

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The first days of recovery

10/2/2020 (Permalink)

The first days of recovery

The value of your home and personal belongings. Talk with your insurance company about how to learn the value of your home and property. Replacing valuable documents and records. You may want to replace many of the following documents if they were destroyed or lost in the fire: Driver’s license. Auto registration. Titles and deeds. Insurance policies. Military discharge papers. Passports. Birth, death and marriage certificates. Divorce papers. Social security or Medicare cards. Credit cards. Stocks and bonds. Wills. Medical records. Warranties. Income tax records. Citizenship papers.

Replacing money. Handle burnt money as little as possible. Try to place each bill or part of a bill in plastic wrap to help preserve it. If money is only partly burnt — if half or more is still OK — you can take it to your regional Federal Reserve Bank to get it replaced. Ask your bank for the one nearest you. You can also send the burnt money to the Treasury. For personal delivery and nonpostal couriers, e.g. FedEx/UPS, send to: Bureau of Engraving and Printing MCD/OFM, Room 344A 14th and C Streets SW Washington, DC 20228

https://www.usfa.fema.gov/downloads/pdf/publications/fa_46.pdf

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Building Damage

10/2/2020 (Permalink)

Building Damage

Damage can also be caused by flying debris (referred to as windborne missiles). If wind speeds are high enough, missiles can be thrown at a building with enough force to penetrate windows, walls, or the roof. For example, an object such as a 2” x 4” wood stud weighing 15 pounds, when carried by a 250-mph wind, can have a horizontal speed of 100 mph and enough force to penetrate most common building materials used in houses today. Even a reinforced masonry wall will be penetrated unless it has been designed and constructed to resist debris impact during extreme winds. Because missiles can severely damage and even penetrate walls and roofs, they threaten not only buildings but the occupants as well.

https://www.fema.gov/pdf/library/ism2.pdf

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Wet Clothes and Preventing Mold

10/2/2020 (Permalink)

Wet Clothes and Preventing Mold

One common cause of moisture problems in homes is wet clothes. After you've washed your clothes you should immediately dry them. Don't leave them sitting in a wet pile for a long time. Make sure not to leave any wet clothes lying around waiting to be washed too.

It's best to dry your clothes outside on a clothes line if you can. Hanging them inside on a clothes horse or indoor clothes line will not dry them as quickly and the moisture from your clothes will evaporate into the air, raising the humidity. If you dry them in a clothes dryer inside your home then you should exhaust the air outdoors if possible. In either case make sure the room where you're drying your clothes is well ventilated.

https://moldpedia.com/how-to-prevent-mold

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What Is a Tornado?

9/23/2020 (Permalink)

What Is a Tornado?

Tornadoes are categorized by the Fujita scale. They typically occur in the spring and summer months, but can occur at any time in any part of the country. Tornadoes are sometimes spawned by hurricanes.

Category / Typical Damage

F0 Light: Chimneys are damaged, tree branches are broken, shallow-rooted trees are toppled. F1 Moderate: Roof surfaces are peeled off, windows are broken, some tree trunks are snapped, unanchored mobile homes are overturned, attached garages may be destroyed. F2 Considerable: Roof structures are damaged, mobile homes are destroyed, debris becomes airborne (missiles are generated), large trees are snapped or uprooted. F3 Severe: Roofs and some walls are torn from structures, some small buildings are destroyed, non-reinforced masonry buildings are destroyed, most trees in forest are uprooted. F4 Devastating: Well-constructed houses are destroyed, some structures are lifted from foundations and blown some distance, cars are blown some distance, large debris becomes airborne. F5 Incredible: Strong frame houses are lifted from foundations, reinforced concrete structures are damaged, automobile-sized missiles become airborne, trees are completely debarked.

https://www.fema.gov/pdf/library/ism2.pdf

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Insurance Claim Tips for Partial Loss Fires

9/22/2020 (Permalink)

Insurance Claim Tips for Partial Loss Fires

Q: A fire damaged my home. What do I need to know?

A: Fires that damage but do not completely destroy a home create special insurance claim issues. These claims are often called “partial losses” because the home has only been partially destroyed. Things to watch out for with partial losses include:

Hidden damage (water, smoke, ash, mold, air quality, ducts)
Inadequate or improper cleaning and repair methods
Delays: Particularly after disasters, partial losses can be low priority for overworked insurance adjusters
Disputes over “matching” and line of sight: Repairs should return your property to a “uniform and consistent appearance” even if that means replacing undamaged items such as roof tiles or carpeting.

In any property loss situation, there are basic steps to follow to make the insurance recovery process go more smoothly. Document everything that was damaged or destroyed, file a timely claim, learn and assert your rights to full and fair payment, and get help if and when you need it.

https://www.uphelp.org/pubs/insurance-claim-tips-partial-loss-fires

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After the Fire

9/22/2020 (Permalink)

After the Fire

What to expect A fire in your home can cause serious damage. Your home and many of the things in your home may be badly damaged by flames, heat, smoke and water. You will find things not damaged by the fire may still be ruined by smoke and may be soggy with water used to put out the fire. Anything you want to save or reuse will need to be carefully cleaned. To fight the fire, firefighters may have broken windows and cut holes in the roof. This slows the fire’s growth and gets rid of dark smoke that makes it hard for firefighters to see. They may have cut holes in your walls to make sure that the fire is completely out and not hidden in the walls

https://www.usfa.fema.gov/downloads/pdf/publications/fa_46.pdf

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Find the safest place

9/22/2020 (Permalink)

Finding a strong refuge in your home and keeping it stocked with the right supplies can mean the difference between life and death during a hurricane. Here's how to stay safe during a storm.

Stay away from windows and exterior doors

In a one-story home, the strongest room is often a bathroom or walk-in closet near the center of the house.

The strongest wall in a two-story home is often near the stairwell. A first-floor closet nearby may be the safest spot.

Reinforce your home

If you can afford to spend about $1,000, hire a reputable contractor who can create a solid plan to reinforce the safe area in your house.

Supply checklist

Make sure you have these items on hand in your safe place:

Food, can opener and water
First aid kit
Flashlight, radio and batteries
Mattress and blankets
Cellular phone
Tools and protective clothing (for breaking through debris)
Games for the kids
Animal carrier

https://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/weather/hurricane/sfl-hc-prep-safeplace-story.html

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A burst pipe can lead to lost revenue

9/17/2020 (Permalink)

In additional to the cost of repair, a burst pipe can lead to lost revenue if your business must close for repairs.

https://www.insureon.com/blog/tips-for-preventing-water-damage-at-your-business

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Preventing and Responding to Building Water Damage

9/17/2020 (Permalink)

Preventing and Responding to Building Water Damage

All offices should take precautions to prevent damage should water enter the space from a pipe break or leak. While top floor and basement areas are more prone to water coming from the outside due to building leaks, pipe breaks can occur throughout the building from plumbing and sprinkler systems. Being vigilant about keeping equipment and materials off the floor will prevent potential loss of those items, and make clean-up if a water incursion occurs faster and easier.

Prevention

Do not store paper, boxes, or other porous materials on the floor.

Raise all computers and other electronic equipment off the floor. Facilities Management can provide platforms for CPUs or they can be purchased commercially.

Report any evidence of leaks to Facilities Management immediately.

Turn off your computer at the end of the work day, more serious damage occurs when the computer is on. (This will save energy too!)

Make sure Public Safety and Service has current contact information for your space, if a water incursion occurs at night or on the weekend.

https://www.mtholyoke.edu/ehs/bldgwaterdam

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How To Prevent Water Damage In Office

9/17/2020 (Permalink)

How To Prevent Water Damage In Office

Check appliances
Appliances that you use in the office could be the culprit that could cause water damage. Water dispensers, for instance, should be in good working condition and be placed on a flat surface. Those offices that have cooling machines should ensure that the outlet that directs water out of the system is pointed to the right place. If not, water dripping from the cooling appliances could damage the walls. Do not underestimate the power of drips of water. You will be surprised to find after the weekend that the office is a puddle of water caused by tiny drops. To ensure that your office is not susceptible to water damage by equipment, read the manufacturers’ manual and ensure everything is in place.

https://www.plumbingservices.com.sg/articles/prevent-water-damage-in-office.html

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Severe Weather Safety

9/15/2020 (Permalink)

Severe Weather Safety

Apartments

The basic tornado safety guidelines apply if you live in an apartment. Get to the lowest floor, with as many walls between you and the outside as possible.

Apartment dwellers should have a plan, particularly if you live on the upper floors. If your complex does not have a reinforced shelter, you should make arrangements to get to an apartment on the lowest floor possible.

In some cases, the apartment clubhouse or laundry room may be used as a shelter, provided the basic safety guidelines are followed. You need to have a shelter area that's accessible at all times of the day or night.

https://www.weather.gov/oun/safety-severe-homesafety

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Safe Rooms

9/15/2020 (Permalink)

Safe Rooms

Bathrooms

Bathrooms MAY be a good shelter, provided they are not along an outside wall and have no windows. Contrary to popular belief, there is nothing magically safe about getting in a bathtub with a mattress. In some cases, this might be a great shelter. However, it depends on where your bathroom is. If your bathroom has windows and is along an outside wall, it's probably not the best shelter.

Bathrooms have proven to be adequate tornado shelters in many cases for a couple of reasons. First, bathrooms are typically small rooms with no windows in the middle of a building. Secondly, it is thought that the plumbing within the walls of a bathroom helps to add some structural strength to the room.

However, with tornadoes there are no absolutes, and you should look closely at your home when determining your shelter area.

https://www.weather.gov/oun/safety-severe-homesafety

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Safety Where you Live

9/15/2020 (Permalink)

Safety Where you Live

Tornado plan

Again, the key to tornado survival is a safety plan. Your plan at home should be known by everyone in the home and practiced at least twice each year. Children who may be at home alone should know what to do and where to go even if no adults are there.

Your selection of a tornado shelter in your home will depend on many factors. Use the basic guidelines and the information below to find your tornado safety area. When selecting your shelter area, remember that your goals should be:

Get as low as possible - completely underground is best.

Put as many barriers between you and the outside as possible.

It is not the wind inside and around a tornado that kills and injures people - it's the flying debris that's in the wind. Items can fly through the air (broken glass, etc) or fall down (could range from small objects to objects the size and weight of cars)

https://www.weather.gov/oun/safety-severe-homesafety

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HURRICANE DAMAGE CAUSED BY FLOOD

9/14/2020 (Permalink)

HURRICANE DAMAGE CAUSED BY FLOOD

Private homeowners insurance policies typically do not cover flood damage. That exclusion also pertains to flooding brought on by or as a result of a hurricane. You may be able to purchase a separate flood insurance policy through the National Flood Insurance Program to help cover such damage.

However, if a hurricane's wind damages your roof, and rain gets in as a result, you may find that homeowners insurance offers some protection if your policy includes coverage for wind.

Read your insurance policy carefully to learn what it does and does not cover, and contact your local agent with questions or to discuss your insurance needs.

https://www.allstate.com/tr/home-insurance/insurance-for-hurricane-damage.aspx

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here 24 hours a day 7 days a week 365 days a year for all of your restoration needs.

TORNADO DAMAGE CAUSED BY FLOOD

9/14/2020 (Permalink)

TORNADO DAMAGE CAUSED BY FLOOD

While tornadoes can be accompanied by heavy rain, it's important to understand that homeowners insurance policies generally do not provide coverage for flood damage. So, even if your policy offers protection against perils like wind, damage caused by flooding likely would not be covered. You may be able to purchase a separate flood insurance policy through the National Flood Insurance Program.

However, if rainwater gets into your home because your roof was damaged by wind or hail, homeowners insurance may offer some protection — but only if your policy includes coverage for these types of perils.

https://www.allstate.com/tr/home-insurance/insurance-for-tornado-damage.aspx

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here 24 hours a day 7 days a week 365 days a years waiting to serve you with all of your mitigation or restoration needs.

Wind, Hail and Fallen Trees

9/14/2020 (Permalink)

WHAT TYPES OF STORM DAMAGE DOES HOMEOWNERS INSURANCE COVER?

Wind, Hail and Fallen Trees

If a strong storm roars through, you may find your siding damaged by hail and shingles that the wind ripped off the roof. Homeowners insurance typically covers wind damage. Coverage also usually includes damage from hail, wind-driven rain or snow that gets inside the home when a roof or wall is damaged due to wind. Most policies also offer some coverage for fallen trees that damage your home, provided the tree broke because of a storm or wind.

https://www.allstate.com/tr/home-insurance/homeowners-insurance-cover-storm-damage.aspx

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here 24 hours a day 7 days a week 365 days a year waiting to serve you in all of your mitigation or restoration needs

What Type Of Damage Can You Claim For?

9/9/2020 (Permalink)

What Type Of Damage Can You Claim For?

Some incidents that you are likely to be able to make a claim for after a storm has damaged your property include:

Structural damage due to the different weather hazards of a storm
Damaged roof/tiles
Property damage due to fallen trees and other debris
Water damage

Checking Your Policy Documents

If you are unsure of how to handle the effects of storm damage or would like to know where you stand before a storm is due to hit, check your policy documents. Some key things to look out for on your policy documents are how your home insurer treats:

Fences, walls and gates
Sheds and other outbuildings
Incomplete extensions
Aerials
Property in the garden, such as garden furniture
Falling trees
The difference between contents and structural damage

These checks may seem like a chore, but it is better to know the details of your policy and not be caught out in the event that you do need to make a claim.

https://www.bewiser.co.uk/knowledge-base/home-insurance-knowledge/how-do-storms-affect-your-home-insurance

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Rain Damage

9/9/2020 (Permalink)

Rain Damage

The fact that roofs are installed to protect you and your home against weather elements like rain doesn’t mean that your roof cannot sustain any water damage. While roofs are rarely damaged by rain alone, existing vulnerabilities such as missing tiles, cracked shingles or improper installations may cause water to leak into your roofing structure and home. If your roof is not in the best condition, heavy rain will undoubtedly cause further roof damage.

As a homeowner, you’re strongly advised to regularly check your roof for potential damage, regardless of whether there has been a storm or other extreme weather conditions recently or not.

https://www.scrapality.com/2017/04/how-do-storms-weather-affect-your-roof.html

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here 24 hours a day 7 days a week 365 days a year for all of your restoration needs.

BASIC UPKEEP GOES A LONG WAY

9/9/2020 (Permalink)

BASIC UPKEEP GOES A LONG WAY

Regularly Trim Your Trees

Problem tree limbs can damage your home, a vehicle, or even your neighbor’s property. Regularly trimming the trees on your property is an excellent way to protect your roof and windows.

Walk around Your Property

A lot of people don’t have the time or skills to check and/or repair everything on their property before storm season kicks up. But, if you know a storm is coming, there are some very basic steps you can take to minimize its impact.

Like identifying the items around your property that could become projectiles. That means lawn furniture, tools, flower pots, or other yard debris. Do yourself a favor and move those items to a garage, a shed, or indoors

Keep A Generator on Hand

A bad storm could potentially knock out power to your home for a couple of hours — or days. Having a generator on standby could go a long way towards ensuring you don’t lose your food, or the livability of your home until power is restored.

https://www.reinbrechthomes.com/blog/10-steps-to-protect-your-home-from-storm-damage/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Is it safe to stay in a house with smoke damage?

9/1/2020 (Permalink)

Is it safe to stay in a house with smoke damage?

The first step after a fire is calling emergency services. Once the fire is out and you can enter your property, call your insurance company. They’ll assess what happened, and see if you need temporary housing while the extent of the damage is determined. Your homeowners policy could reimburse you for additional expenses while your home is uninhabitable, remember that loss of use category? Here’s when that kicks in.

The next step is to find a reputable cleanup company that specializes in fire damage. Check for companies in your neighborhood that have a high customer satisfaction rating on sites like Google, Yelp, Angie’s List, or the Better Business Bureau. These specialized smoke damage mitigation companies clean and restore furniture, electronics, clothing, and textile items after they’re damaged by smoke or water.

Just because the fire is out and you’re allowed to enter your home, doesn’t mean it’s safe to move back in. Smoke and soot can stick to the walls, furniture, and floors – which is not only smelly and unattractive but also potentially damaging.

https://www.lemonade.com/blog/fire-damage/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Flooding Causes Mold

9/1/2020 (Permalink)

Flooding Causes Mold

It is almost inevitable that some mold problems will develop after your home has been affected by flooding. Obviously, your house will be very wet for a long time during a flood, taking days or even weeks to dry out. Since mold only needs a suitable surface to be wet for 24 hours before it can grow this means there is a huge risk of mold growth.

Damp Basement Causes Mold

Basements often contain higher amounts of moisture or humidity than other rooms because they are usually not well ventilated. Basements are also often colder meaning more condensation occurs which leads to dampness and humidity.

Also any water from leaks in your home will often end up running down to the basement since it is lower than all the other rooms. Not only is mold more likely to grow in basements but because they are usually neglected mold growth may not be discovered until it is well set in.

https://moldpedia.com/what-causes-mold-grow

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

The Cost to Tear out and Repair Damaged Building

9/1/2020 (Permalink)

The Cost to Tear out and Repair Damaged Building

Many water pipes are located inside walls, ceilings, floors, or other places that are difficult to access. When an interior pipe is leaking, you may need to tear out a portion of the building to repair the pipe.

Fortunately, most property policies cover the cost of tearing out and replacing any portion of the building you remove to repair damage to the plumbing system or an appliance (such as a boiler) from which water or another substance has escaped.

In the water fountain scenario described above, suppose that the supply line is located inside a wall. To gain access to the damaged pipe, you must remove a portion of the wall. Your policy should cover the cost to tear out and replace that portion of the wall.

https://www.thebalancesmb.com/damage-caused-by-water-leaks-462680

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Protect your home during a storm

8/21/2020 (Permalink)

Flood Proof your home

Heavy rainstorms can lead to flooding, which can potentially wreak havoc on homes.

Water damage can devalue a house and cause significant problems with the foundation.

According to Westerra Real Estate, if a 2,000 square-foot home gets even six inches of floodwater in it, this can cause approximately $40,000 in damage.

If you live in areas with a high probability of flooding, there’s a chance your Homeowners’ insurance won’t cover the repairs, so be sure to research your policy.

One preventative option is dry flood-proofing your house by making the foundation watertight with concrete. This prevents water from being able to enter the enclosed areas of a house.

Another option to consider is wet flood-proofing, which consists of modifying uninhabited areas under your house, such as a basement or crawlspace, to allow floodwaters to enter and exit. Be sure to seek necessary professional guidance before determining a flood-proofing method for your home.

https://www.propertycasualty360.com/2016/02/23/5-ways-to-protect-your-home-during-a-storm/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Safety First

8/21/2020 (Permalink)

Safety First

https://homeguides.sfgate.com/should-after-house-damaged-storm-58794.html

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

What is the best way to keep my family safe from a home fire?

8/20/2020 (Permalink)

What is the best way to keep my family safe from a home fire?

One of the most important steps you can take to protect your family against fire is to install smoke alarms and keep them in good working order. You can buy smoke alarms at most home and hardware stores, and they often cost $10 or less. Check with your fire department to see if they give out and install free smoke alarms.

Install smoke alarms outside every bedroom or any area where someone sleeps. Also install them in furnace areas. Be sure there is at least 1 alarm on every level of your home, including the basement, or at each end of a mobile home.
Place smoke alarms away from the kitchen and bathroom. False alarms can occur while cooking or even showering.
Test smoke alarms every month by pushing the test button. It is best to use smoke alarms that have long-life batteries, but if you do not, change the batteries at least once a year, such as when you change your clocks in the fall.
Replace smoke alarms every 10 years.
Never paint a smoke alarm.
Clean (dust or vacuum) smoke alarms once a month.
Use smoke alarms equipped with a flashing light and an alarm in homes with children or adults who are hard of hearing or deaf.

https://www.healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/all-around/Pages/Fire-Safety.aspx

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

What is the best way to keep my family safe from a home fire?

8/20/2020 (Permalink)

What is the best way to keep my family safe from a home fire?

For Your Sitters

When you are away from home and someone else cares for your children, make sure that your children and the sitter will be just as safe as when you are there.

Let your sitter know about your family's escape plan.
Remind sitters never to leave the children alone.
Remind sitters that you do not allow smoking in or around your home.

Leave emergency information near the phone. Include the local fire department phone number, your full home address and phone number, and a neighbor's name and phone number.

https://www.healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/all-around/Pages/Fire-Safety.aspx

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here 24 hours a day 7 days a week 365 days a year waiting to serve you with all of your restoration needs.

Mold Information

8/17/2020 (Permalink)

Mold Information

Molds are organisms which are neither plant nor animal. They are part of the fungi kingdom.

Unlike plants, molds do not get their energy from the sun through photosynthesis. In fact, the sun's ultraviolet light inhibits mold growth.

Molds also digest or "eat" the material they are growing on. The role of mold is to break down decaying organic matter such as dead plants, leaves or dead animals.

Mold Growth Indoors and Outdoors

Outdoors, you can find mold growing in places like soil, wood, decaying plants and dead animals.

Some places where mold likes to grow in the home include carpet, paper, clothes, leather, drywall, wood, insulation and food.

https://moldpedia.com/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Focus on Ceilings Water Damage Repair First

8/17/2020 (Permalink)

Focus on Ceilings Water Damage Repair First

Ceilings exposed to water damage are more at risk due to gravity: You don't want them sagging or collapsing. So, remove affected ceiling panels or boards first. If the ceiling leak is caused by a roof problem, it's important to find the true source of the leak, which may be somewhere far removed from the water stain. And take this time to make sure the water caused no structural damage to beams or rafters. You can contact professionals to find out what replacing a water damaged ceiling repair cost job runs.

Replace Damaged Wood

All severely warped wood (particularly flooring), rotting wood and wood that has developed mold/mildew problems will need to be replaced. Pry apart damaged boards and thoroughly clean beneath them before replacing them. And if the wood is a structural component of your house, you must be very careful when replacing it so that the structure has the right support during and after the water damage repair project.

https://www.familyhandyman.com/list/12-tips-for-water-damage-repair/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Humidity Causes Mold

8/17/2020 (Permalink)

Humidity Causes Mold

If the weather's been very humid for a few days in a row you might notice mold starting to grow in your home. When it rains for several days it's especially common to see mold start to grow on walls, benches and other surfaces because of the wet air.

If you live where humidity in the air is naturally high, like by the coast or another large body of water, then mold growth in your home can also be a recurring problem.

Also when moisture inside your house evaporates into the air it increases the humidity indoors. If your home isn't well ventilated then the humidity will stay high for a long time.

Drying clothes indoors on clothes lines or stands is a common culprit when it comes to causes of indoor humidity problems. The household HVAC system can also create humidity troubles while it artificially heats or cools the air.

Sometimes people use humidifiers in their homes. But there are molds that only need the humidity level to be higher than 55% to start growing. So if you need to use a humidifier in your home make sure to keep the humidity below 55%.

Not only does high humidity feed mold, but it means that puddles of water and damp materials in the home take longer to dry out. These wet surfaces can in turn create mold growth of their own.

https://moldpedia.com/what-causes-mold-grow

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

The dangers of standing water

8/14/2020 (Permalink)

The dangers of standing water

Flood waters and standing waters pose various risks, including the risk of drowning (even in shallow water), infectious diseases, contact with sewage and chemical and electrical hazards, and the potential for injuries. Flood waters can displace animals, insects and reptiles. To protect yourself and your family, be alert and avoid contact. In addition, flood waters may contain sharp objects, such as glass or metal, that can cause injury and lead to infection. Avoid standing or moving about in flood waters as much as possible.

DEET: Your anti-mosquito protection

Along with your other first aid preparations, have on hand good bug spray containing DEET — the one ingredient proven to thwart disease-carrying mosquitoes.

Patrol the perimeter

Not only will wind damage a fence, heavy rains can waterlog fence posts, causing the fence to lean or collapse long after the storm passes. Check the entire perimeter of your fence for damage as well as potential damage and shore up any weak spots. Before letting pets roam freely in the yard, also inspect the perimeter for low-lying spots and areas that might have washed out during heavy rains, leaving easy-to-dig escape routes for adventurous animals. Also, inspect the yard for any broken glass or other sharp debris before leaving pets unattended.

https://www.uth.edu/news/story.htm?id=526b7fac-a078-4963-9440-0e7b86de3b48

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs

WHEN IT COMES TO STORM DAMAGE, BASIC UPKEEP GOES A LONG WAY

8/14/2020 (Permalink)

When it comes to Storm Damage, basic upkeep goes a long way

Replace Missing or damaged Shingles

If a shingle is damaged, it’s more likely to break free. If it’s missing, well then you’ve got a gap for wind to get under and do even more damage.

Note that when you’re installing or replacing shingles, they must be nailed properly — NOT above the nail line.

In terms of how roofing materials – shingles vs. metal – hold up to hail, it doesn’t really matter. After a hailstorm, our crews will end up replacing just as many shingle roofs as metal ones.

Repair Loose Siding

The same rules as roofing apply to siding: it’s important to ensure your siding isn’t damaged.

https://www.reinbrechthomes.com/blog/10-steps-to-protect-your-home-from-storm-damage/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs

Fire Safety Tips

8/14/2020 (Permalink)

Fire Safety Tips

Safety Tips · Complete a home fire safety checklist and identify fire risks in your home. · Test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors monthly and change the batteries at least once a year. · Place smoke alarms on each floor of your home and in each bedroom. · Make sure that everyone in the home can hear the smoke alarm from their bedrooms. · Make a family fire escape plan and practice it once a month. · Make sure that everyone in the house understands the family fire escape plan. · Place fire extinguishers throughout your home and make sure everyone in the house knows how to use them. · Never leave food unattended on the stove, keep all matches and lighters out of the reach of children, and don’t place portable heaters near flammable materials. Community Linkages · Know the number for the local fire department. · Attend events offered by the local fire department. · Learn how to use a fire extinguisher through your local fire department.

https://www.nsc.org/Portals/0/Documents/NSCDocuments_Advocacy/Fact%20Sheets/Family-Fire-Safety-Plan.pdf

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs

Why water damage claims are common and how to avoid them.

8/13/2020 (Permalink)

Why water damage claims are common and how to avoid them.

Plumbing issues

Water damage is often caused by plumbing issues. That’s why it’s important to inspect the plumbing systems in your home at least once a year to ensure that there aren’t any problems with hoses or pipe joints. You should also keep in mind that plumbing pipes have a long lifespan. Brass pipes can last for as many as 70 years while copper pipes can last for more than 50 years. The average lifespan for galvanized steel pipes is often between 20 and 50 years.

Drain pipes are usually made of either cast iron (which can last for as many as 100 years) or polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Properly maintained PVC pipes can last indefinitely. Check your home inspection report or consult a licensed plumber to learn about the lifespan of the plumbing pipes in your home.

If your water bill is unusually high, that might be an indication of an undetected leak.

https://www.hippo.com/blog/top-5-reasons-water-damage-house

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Aging water heaters

8/13/2020 (Permalink)

Aging water heaters

Water heaters have a shelf life. You could wait until your water heater starts leaking to replace it. But if you’re being smart about avoiding water damage, you should replace it every 10 years. A tankless water heater can last for as many as 20 years.

You can find out how old your water heater is by looking up the serial number on the manufacturer’s sticker near the top of the water heater. Make sure to regularly inspect your water heater to check for signs of moisture build-up, mold or corrosion. If your water isn’t as hot as it used to be or there’s rust coming from your faucets, it’s time to call a plumber or water heater specialist.

https://www.hippo.com/blog/top-5-reasons-water-damage-house

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Dry Out the Affected Area

8/13/2020 (Permalink)

Dry Out the Affected Area

It's important to get rid of all moisture ASAP before it causes more damage. And for small leaks, this may not be difficult, but it's important to be thorough. Use fans to circulate air in the affected area. For larger projects, consider renting a large-capacity dehumidifier to really dry out surrounding wood, carpet, and other materials. You don't want any moisture left after your water damage repair.

Remove and Toss Damaged Porous Materials

Porous materials include carpet, insulation, fabric, and similar items. If they've been soaked in water, you may have to cut them out and throw them away. Water will permanently damage most porous materials by shrinking or warping them, and mildew will damage them even further. And if you have a beloved piece of furniture you want to save, you could try isolating and drying it out, but the damage may already be done, especially if you see drywall water damage. Note that unsealed cement, drywall, and wood are also porous materials.

https://www.familyhandyman.com/list/12-tips-for-water-damage-repair/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Avoiding Hurricane Damage

8/11/2020 (Permalink)

Avoiding Hurricane Damage

INFORMATION YOU NEED Do you know your hurricane risk? Ask your local emergency management office or American Red Cross chapter about the history of hurricanes in your area. Ask for information about protecting your family and home. Ask your emergency management office, building department or floodplain management office to see a flood map of your community. There may be a projected flood elevation for your neighborhood. This information will help you determine how much water is likely to come in. Do you have enough flood insurance? Even if you have taken steps to protect your home from flooding, you still need flood insurance if you live in a floodplain. Home owners’ policies do not cover flood damage, so you will probably need to purchase a separate policy under the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). It takes 30 days for a flood policy to take effect. This is why you need to purchase flood insurance before flooding occurs.

https://www.fema.gov/pdf/plan/prevent/nhp/hurdam.pdf

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your mitigation/restoration need.

Avoiding Hurricane Damage

8/11/2020 (Permalink)

Avoiding Hurricane Damage

Has the garage door been properly secured? If the garage door fails, winds can enter your home and blow out doors, windows, walls and the roof. Ask your building department for guidance on what to do. Are windows protected by storm shutters? Installing storm shutters is one of the best ways to protect your home. Purchase or make storm shutters for all exposed windows, glass surfaces, French doors, sliding glass doors and skylights. There are many types of manufactured shutters made out of wood, steel or aluminum. You can also make storm shutters with 5/8-inch thick exterior grade plywood. Is the roof fastened to the walls with hurricane straps? Hurricane straps (made out of galvanized metal) help keep the roof fastened to the walls in high winds. They can be difficult to install, so you may need a contractor for this project. Ask your building department whether hurricane straps are required or advisable in your area.

https://www.fema.gov/pdf/plan/prevent/nhp/hurdam.pdf

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your mitigation/restoration need.

The aftermath of a mess

8/11/2020 (Permalink)

The aftermath of a mess

Depending on the amount of water, the type of home and your geographic area, these tips may help you save belongings:

Hardwood Floors: (sitting on screeds, not pre-fabricated) every 3-4 feet, remove a plank and save it. Wood is porous and swells when wet, making the planks “pop” out and appear unsalvageable. But wood dries out and returns to its normal position. Wait several weeks and then replace the missing plank. Removing planks immediately after a flood allows the foundation and wood to dry out faster.
Remove carpet AND carpet padding immediately.
Remove the molding around the floors that are against the wall and save. This speeds up drying.
Rent or purchase at least two dehumidifiers if possible, and run them 24 hours for several days. They truly do pull out tremendous moisture.
Borrow fans and turn the air conditioner colder for several days.
Sheetrock must be cut out at least three feet above the water line AND insulation removed as well. Insulation is highly absorbent.
Swab down the gutted exposed boards with a mix of one quarter cup bleach to a gallon of water to prevent mold.
Clean-up equipment: When using sprayers, wet vacs, vacuum cleaners and other cleaning equipment, use an extension cord with a ground fault circuit interrupter or install a GFCI in the electrical circuits in damp environments.

https://www.uth.edu/news/story.htm?id=526b7fac-a078-4963-9440-0e7b86de3b48

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your mitigation/restoration needs.

IF YOU SUSPECT MOLD IN YOUR HOME

8/10/2020 (Permalink)

IF YOU SUSPECT MOLD IN YOUR HOME

Smelling something odd; there are a number of different signs that can indicate that you might have mold in your house.
If you do suspect you have mold in your home, getting it taken care of as soon as you can is very important as the situation generally won't improve over time.
If you don't address any underlying leakage, however, you really haven't gotten things under control — the mold will likely come back.
The best thing to do if you know or suspect that there's mold in your living area is to address the problem as soon as you can and as thoroughly as you can.
Here are some signs that might indicate that you have mold in your home.

https://www.insider.com/is-there-mold-in-my-house-2018-12

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Sometimes, letting go can be best

8/10/2020 (Permalink)

Sometimes, letting go can be best

Discard items that cannot be washed and disinfected. Remove carpeting, padding, draperies, upholstered furniture, pillows, stuffed animals and mattresses, as they absorb water quickly and dry slowly.

Ceiling tiles that are wet lose their insulative properties and need to be replaced. If you are removing building materials, like flooring or popcorn ceilings, trim or siding, be aware that in older homes they may have lead paint and asbestos.

Cleaning mold means we must remove it, not just kill it, keep an eye out for new growth or continued dampness. Remember, mold can form in as little as two to three days. Check the outside grade to make sure you have good drainage of rainwater away from your house. Make sure you are using indoor humidity controls like bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans vented to the outside to help prevent added moisture.

https://theconversation.com/beyond-bleach-mold-a-long-term-problem-after-flooding-and-disasters-84399

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

How common is mold in buildings?

8/10/2020 (Permalink)

How common is mold in buildings?

How do you know if you have a mold problem?

Large mold infestations can usually be seen or smelled.

Molds are very common in buildings and homes. Mold will grow in places with a lot of moisture, such as around leaks in roofs, windows, or pipes, or where there has been flooding. Mold grows well on paper products, cardboard, ceiling tiles, and wood products. Mold can also grow in dust, paints, wallpaper, insulation, drywall, carpet, fabric, and upholstery.

The most common indoor molds are Cladosporium, Penicillium, and Aspergillus. We do not have precise information about how often different molds are found in buildings and homes.

https://www.cdc.gov/mold/faqs.htm

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Water Damage May Be Hiding in Your Home

8/7/2020 (Permalink)

Water Damage May Be Hiding in Your Home

Under the Siding

Common locations for water leaks in siding are at the corners of the house, anywhere two siding panels meet, and around the windows where the siding abuts the trim. Unsealed gaps in these spots allow water to trickle beneath the siding and eventually rot the plywood sheathing that lies beneath. The damage may remain hidden until the siding is replaced.

Exterior Door Threshold

The wood beneath the metal threshold of an exterior door is subject to saturation every time it rains. While treated wood is often used for this application, even treated wood will eventually swell and become spongy when continually exposed to moisture. Damage may not be noticed until the metal threshold starts to work loose when the wood beneath has begun to rot and can no longer support it.

https://www.bobvila.com/slideshow/15-places-water-damage-may-be-hiding-in-your-home-52971

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your mitigation needs

How to prevent home fires

8/7/2020 (Permalink)

How to prevent home fires

U.S. fire departments respond to a home fire every 86 seconds. That’s over 1,000 fires a day. Home fires can occur for a variety of reasons, but many are preventable. Unattended cooking is the leading cause of home fires, accounting for over half of home fires in 2015, followed by heating equipment, electrical malfunction, intentional fires and smoking materials. Home fires are not 100 percent preventable. Though, you can take necessary steps today to reduce your risk of home fires. Here’s how:

Install and maintain smoke alarms on every floor of your home and within every bedroom. Roughly 50% of home fire deathsoccur during the night while people are sleeping.
Never leave food cooking unattended, especially deep fryers and other frying equipment.
Avoid using portable and fixed space heaters, as heating equipment is the second leading cause of home fire deaths.
Have a fire plan that gets you out of your home in less than two minutes and practice it.
Avoid smoking in the house.

https://www.safety.com/fire-safety/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your mitigation needs

How to use a fire extinguisher

8/7/2020 (Permalink)

How to use a fire extinguisher

Fire extinguishers are helpful for putting out small fires. You can contact your local fire department for fire extinguisher training. Or, follow these simple recommendations from the U.S. Fire Administration. To operate a fire extinguisher, remember the word “PASS:”

Pull the pin. Hold the fire extinguisher with the nozzle pointing away from you and remove the pin to unlock it.
Aim low. Point the nozzle at the base of the fire.
Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly.
Sweep the nozzle from side-to-side.

Fire extinguishers should be checked regularly and tested by a professional every few years.

https://www.safety.com/fire-safety/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here 24 hours a day 7 days a week 365 days a year for all of your mitigation needs.

Water Destroys Homes and Buildings.

7/21/2020 (Permalink)

Water Destroys Homes and Buildings.

Bulk Water, Usually Rain

The most common and destructive type of water damage is typically rain related and includes many sources:

Water seepage though basement walls.
Leaks through walls at areas like doors and windows
Roof leaks, usually through penetrations and flashing errors
Plumbing leaks, an outlier but relevant

Bulk water leaks come in many forms from the rare catastrophic plumbing failure to the more common hidden leak that causes its damage over many years. Homeowner maintenance goes a long way to preventing and reducing problems. For those building new, we suggest hiring builders who take these matters seriously. We think blower door test results offer a fair measurement for distinguishing between builders for this type of hidden craftsmanship.

https://www.greenbuilt.org/the-top-3-ways-that-water-destroys-our-homes-and-buildings/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your mitigation needs.

How Fast Can Water Damage Ruin a Home?

7/21/2020 (Permalink)

How Fast Can Water Damage Ruin a Home?

When it comes to water damage, time does not heal all wounds. The secondary destruction that will inevitably take place as time passes causes considerably more damage to your home. Learn the unfortunate side effects of water damage left uncorrected in a home.

Water damage within minutes

Water contamination spreads, rapidly increasing claim costs.
Moisture-sensitive furniture finishes begin to turn white.
Furniture standing on saturated carpets will begin to leach and stain the carpeting.

Water damage within hours

Furniture in direct contact with water begins to delaminate and swell.
Normal household odors, amplified by humidity, become glaringly apparent.
Dyes from non-colorfast fabrics begin to bleed.

https://www.angieslist.com/articles/how-fast-can-water-damage-ruin-home.htm

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your mitigation needs.

Remove Water-Soaked Objects from the Floor

7/14/2020 (Permalink)

Remove Water-Soaked Objects from the Floor

Rugs and furniture that has been soaked with water will continue to shed the moisture into the wood. Also, the wet furnishings can create mildew and mold growth, which will get into the pores and seams of your flooring. Remove all wet items from the room and place them in an area where they can dry effectively without ruining the floor.

Soak Up as Much of the Water as Possible

Towels, mops and clean rags can immediately soak up small puddles and spills. Use a wet vacuum to pull up larger water sources from out the flooring. Don't stop using the wet vacuum even when you can no longer see the water on the surface of the wood. There will still be water lurking in the wood pores and plank seams. Continue to run the wet vacuum over the floor until there is no water seen in the vacuum canister.

https://nydreeflooring.com/blog/1253

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your mitigation needs.

Working Smoke Alarms Are a Must

7/10/2020 (Permalink)

Working Smoke Alarms Are a Must

About three out of five fire deaths happen in homes with no smoke alarms or working smoke alarms. Smoke alarms are a key part of a home fire escape plan providing early warning reducing your risk of dying in a fire. The National Fire Protection Association recommends you:

Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, inside bedrooms and outside sleeping areas on the ceiling or high on the wall
Keep smoke alarms away from the kitchen, at least 10 feet from the stove, to reduce false alarms
Use special alarms with strobe lights and bed shakers for people who are hard of hearing or deaf
Test smoke alarms monthly
Replace batteries annually, and change the batteries in your carbon monoxide detector at the same time
Replace smoke alarms that are 10 or more years old

https://www.nsc.org/home-safety/safety-topics/emergency-preparedness/fire

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

When and How to Use Fire Extinguisher

7/10/2020 (Permalink)

When and How to Use Fire Extinguisher

Always put your safety first; if you are not confident in your ability to use a fire extinguisher, get out and call 9-1-1. The American Red Cross cautions you to evaluate the situation and ensure:

Everyone has left or is leaving the home
The fire department has been called
The fire is small, not spreading, and there is not much smoke
Your back is to an exit you can use quickly

Learn about the different types of fire extinguishers; not all will work on every fire. For home use, the National Fire Protection Association recommends a multi-purpose device large enough to put out a small fire but not so heavy that it will be difficult to handle.

Review the instructions once a year. If you need to use a fire extinguisher, there won’t be time to learn how to do it.

To use a fire extinguisher, remember the acronym PASS:

Pull the pin.
Aim low at the base of the fire.
Squeeze the handle slowly.
Sweep the nozzle side to side.

https://www.nsc.org/home-safety/safety-topics/emergency-preparedness/fire

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Fire Safety

7/6/2020 (Permalink)

Fire Safety

If you’re not able to invest in fire extinguishers, a box of baking soda works in a pinch for grease fires. Generously shake the baking soda over the grease fire to smother it.

Close bedroom doors.

House fires spread quickly when there are no barriers. Something as simple as closing bedroom doors at night can create passive fire protection that buys precious seconds when it counts.

Know your location.

Few people realize that emergency operators can’t always trace your location if you call from a cell phone. They can estimate your location based on signals bouncing off cell towers, but firefighters still need an exact address. It’s important for every member of the household to understand how fire response works and to know your address.

Fire damage can be devastating, but learning how to prevent fire can minimize the risk of fire in your home. Make these practices part of your fire safety plan and review them regularly.

https://www.safewise.com/home-security-faq/prevent-house-fire/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your mitigation needs.

Flood control fixes

7/6/2020 (Permalink)

Flood control fixes you can make to help manage storm water runoff and prevent flood damage to your home:

* A sump pump is often the most convenient flood control when geography insists on flooding your basement. Sump pumps work by digging a shallow pit in the basement and a small pump is placed inside. As water collects in the pit during storms, it is pumped through tubing outside the home. Different sump pumps have different capacities, so it's important to use the correct one for the job and that it gets enough power.

* Fix the sewer back-up threat. If the storm water backing up combined sewers in your area is a constant threat, consider installing a full port backwater valve onto your home's sewer line. This valve opens only one way - away from your home. During backups, the backwater valve closes to prevent water from entering your home. Of course, during backups, the back-water valve will reduce water flowing out from your home so remember to avoid taking showers, running the washing machine, or using the dishwasher. Backwater valves must be installed by a qualified plumber.

https://www.directenergy.com/learning-center/weather-readiness/prepare-your-home-against-floods

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Protecting your home from storm water damage

7/6/2020 (Permalink)

Protecting your home from storm water damage

A heavy rainstorm has finally stopped. Or maybe a long winter has finally ended, and the deep snows have begun to melt.

While good weather may seem like a relief, the potential for water damage may just be beginning. Storm water runoff can quickly overwhelm natural and manmade systems, leading to flooding and property damage.

The steps you take today to prepare your home and yard for proper drainage can help avoid time-consuming and costly repairs when the bad weather does blow through.

In a natural environment, storm water runoff is absorbed by soil, evaporates into the atmosphere or flows into bodies of water, such as streams, lakes or rivers. Homeowners may need to recreate the natural environment on their property to address storm water runoff. This includes planting trees and other vegetation, building rain gardens and installing rain barrels or cisterns to collect roof water.

https://www.travelers.com/resources/home/maintenance/protecting-your-home-from-storm-water-damage

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your mitigation needs.

Prevent House Fires

6/10/2020 (Permalink)

Know your shutoffs.

Know the locations of your power shutoffs for all utilities, including gas lines, circuit breakers, appliances, and fuses. Post clear shutoff directions next to each one. Keep a non-sparking tool handy for turning off gas.

Store flammable products properly.

Many household cleaners and cosmetic products like shaving cream and hair spray are flammable. Keep flammable products away from heat, including exposure to sunlight. Designate a cool, dark cupboard for flammable products and make sure all family members know where they go.

Keep combustible materials like paint and gasoline in their original containers. Store tightly-closed paint containers upside down so the paint creates a seal. Gasoline should be stored in containers designed for gasoline. If a container develops a crack or leak, transfer its contents into a new container made of the same material as the original.

https://www.safewise.com/home-security-faq/prevent-house-fire/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Safely Preventing Mold

6/10/2020 (Permalink)

Safely Preventing Mold Growth Cleanup - Dry out the building quickly (within 24 to 48 hours). Open doors and windows. Use fans to dry out the building. • When in doubt, take it out! Remove all porous items that have been wet for more than 48 hours and that cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried. These items can remain a source of mold growth and should be removed from the home. Porous, noncleanable items include carpeting and carpet padding, upholstery, wallpaper, drywall, floor and ceiling tiles, insulation material, clothing, leather, paper, wood, and food. Removal and cleaning are important because even dead mold may cause allergic reactions in some people. • To prevent mold growth, clean wet items and surfaces with detergent and water. • Homeowners may want to temporarily store items outside of the home until insurance claims can be filed.

https://www.ada.org/~/media/ADA/Member%20Center/FIles/office_cleanup.pdf?la=en

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Example of Tree Falling on Roof Causing Water Damage & Gradual Damage

5/11/2020 (Permalink)

Example of Tree Falling on Roof Causing Water Damage & Gradual Damage

Following a water damage claim that was covered as a result of a tree falling on the roof and creating an opening in which water poured into the home, the opening and roof were repaired by the insurance company.

The damage in the home was repaired, however, several months later the homeowners noticed a funny smell or paint chipping near where the repairs had been done. They call the insurance company who took care of the claim, and they are advised that there is still humidity or even worse, newly formed mold where the damage had been.

On rare occasions, additional damage may occur after or as a result of a claim, and not be caught. If the gradual damage is a result of the original claim that was covered, the insurance company may decide to cover it.

https://www.thebalance.com/how-to-handle-water-damage-claims-3860314

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of you mitigation needs.

Why Was Coverage Denied?

5/11/2020 (Permalink)

Why Was Coverage Denied?

Your insurance company may also have an ombudsman that can help review your file. You can also contact your state insurance commissioner for guidance or to file a complaint.

https://www.thebalance.com/how-to-handle-water-damage-claims-3860314

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of you mitigation needs.

Clean up after a flood

5/7/2020 (Permalink)

Clean up after a flood

When You First Reenter Your Building

If you have standing water in the building and can turn off the main power from a dry location, then go ahead and turn off the power, even if it delays cleaning. If you must enter standing water to access the main power switch, then call an electrician to turn it off. NEVER turn power on or off yourself or use an electric tool or appliance while standing in water. • Have an electrician check the building’s electrical system before turning the power on again. • If the building has been closed up for several days, enter briefly to open doors and windows to let it air out for a while (at least 30 minutes) before you stay for any length of time. • If the building has been flooded and has been closed up for several days, presume it has been contaminated with mold. • If your building has been flooded, it also may be contaminated with sewage.

https://www.ada.org/~/media/ADA/Member%20Center/FIles/office_cleanup.pdf?la=en

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

How to know what tornado damage insurance you need

5/7/2020 (Permalink)

How to know what tornado damage insurance you need

If you are worried about damage and claims arising from tornadoes and spring storm conditions like hail, rain, or windstorms, study your standard home insurance options and car insurance options have basic provisions for tornadoes and various weather-related types of risks.

But, the type of coverage you have can make a difference of thousands of dollars in how much you get paid in a claim. Many homeowners and renters can find themselves in a very bad situation if they haven't checked their insurance coverage carefully.

https://www.thebalance.com/home-and-car-insurance-for-tornado-damage-4026154

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs

Information to Seek About Your Tornado Insurance Coverage

5/7/2020 (Permalink)

Information to Seek About Your Tornado Insurance Coverage

Although damage from hail, windstorms, trees, and other types of spring damage are covered, the information you need to know extends beyond whether it is covered to how it is covered.

The answers to the following questions will make a significant difference for you when you make a claim. Start with a conversation with your insurance agent or representative to make sure you understand the claims process fully before you have to make a claim.

Find out what kind of home insurance policy you have.

You want to make sure you have an All Risk or Peril Insurance policy to ensure the maximum protection for your home and personal property.

Find out if you have a specific deductible.

In the event of a tornado or windstorm, make sure that you have enough money set aside to cover that deductible. Higher risk areas may impose higher deductibles. On the flip side, you could use your deductible to save money.

https://www.thebalance.com/home-and-car-insurance-for-tornado-damage-4026154

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Prevent House Fires

4/20/2020 (Permalink)

Prevent House Fires

Test your smoke detectors.

Properly maintain your smoke alarms by testing the batteries once a month. It’s easy to forget such regular maintenance, but it’s worth setting a reminder in your smartphone’s calendar to help you get it done. If they’re not working, replace them immediately.

Inspect heating sources.

Regardless of what kind of primary heating you have in your home, an annual inspection will reduce your risk of fire.

Change furnace filters regularly to avoid a buildup of dust and lint that can easily catch fire. If you use space heaters, carefully inspect them before and after each use, and place them at least three feet away from anything combustible, such as fabric or paper. Check water heaters as well, especially those that run off gas and have a pilot light. Make sure nothing is close to the heating element.

https://www.safewise.com/home-security-faq/prevent-house-fire/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Food and Water Sanitation

4/15/2020 (Permalink)

Food and Water Sanitation

Until your local water company, utility, or public health department declares your water source safe, purify your water, not only for drinking and cooking, but also for washing any part of the body or dishes.

Water: Strain water through a clean cloth or filter; then boil water vigorously for a full minute; let cool. If boiling is not possible, use fresh unscented liquid chlorine bleach (8 drops or 1/8 tsp/gallon of clear water; 16 drops or 1/4 tsp/gallon of cloudy water); stir; let stand 30 minutes. Iodine and purification tablets are not recommended.
Food: Undamaged, commercially-prepared foods in all-metal cans or retort pouches can be saved if you remove the labels, thoroughly wash the cans, rinse them, and then disinfect them with a sanitizing solution consisting of 1 tablespoon of bleach per gallon of potable water. Finally, re-label containers that had the labels removed, including the expiration date, with a marker.
Utensils: Discard flood-contaminated wooden cutting boards and spoons, plastic utensils, baby bottles, nipples, and pacifiers. Thoroughly wash metal and ceramic pans, utensils, and dishes with hot soapy water and sanitize by boiling them in clean water or by immersing them for 15 minutes in a solution of 1 tsp chlorine bleach/quart water.

https://agrilifeextension.tamu.edu/solutions/water-damage-restoration-clean-up-checklist/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Long term flooding or wetness

4/15/2020 (Permalink)

Long-term flooding or wetness is likely to ruin most interior finishes and contents, but the next steps may be possible when flooding is short term and cleanup begins promptly. Delay permanent repairs until the building is thoroughly dry, which may take weeks.

Subfloors

Layers of submerged plywood or OSB subfloors will likely separate or swell. Affected sections must be replaced to keep the new floor covering from buckling.
When floor coverings are removed, allow the subflooring to dry thoroughly, which may take months without a dehumidifier.
Check for warping before installing new flooring.

Wood Floors

Carefully remove a board every few feet to reduce buckling caused by swelling. If boards are tongue-and-grooved, consult a carpenter or flooring professional.
Clean and dry the floor thoroughly, which may take weeks, before replacing boards and attempting repairs.

https://agrilifeextension.tamu.edu/solutions/water-damage-restoration-clean-up-checklist/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

What Are Examples of Gradual Damage?

4/15/2020 (Permalink)

What Are Examples of Gradual Damage?

Some of the most common examples of gradual damage causing losses or denied claims are:

Plumbing, faucets or pipes leaking over time causing damage to the walls, ceilings or floors.
Water damage caused by seepage coming in from cracks in the foundation, or at the exterior of the house allowing water to enter your home.
Flashing, tiles, shingles or deteriorating parts on the roof that indicated signs of needed repair.
Mold, rot or corrosion
Deteriorating electrical wiring
Poor repairs or lack of repairs to home⁶

It is often hard to understand why a claim gets denied, and one of the most popular reasons for a claim to be denied is when you try and make a claim for something that suddenly appeared to you, but is the result of something that has been happening for a while.

https://www.thebalance.com/how-to-handle-water-damage-claims-3860314

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

What is Gradual Damage?

4/7/2020 (Permalink)

What is Gradual Damage?

Gradual damage is when something happens slowly over time and causes damage to your property. Gradual damage due to water damage is a common problem when it comes to insurance claims. An example of gradual damage is when something happens slowly, like paint chipping off a wall it starts with a small chip, then eventually half the wall is uncovered.

Homes are full of nooks and crannies, pipes, electrical wiring, ventilation systems. Homes are complex structures, and for the most part, the only parts we see in our homes every day are the walls, the decorations, and our contents. Underneath it all, there are layers of activity, all making your house run.

Without proper maintenance and regular verification of the key components in your home, anything could be going wrong under the surface, and you would never know until the damage causes structural changes or some physical evidence. That's when we try and make a claim.

https://www.thebalance.com/how-to-handle-water-damage-claims-3860314

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

When you first reenter your home

4/6/2020 (Permalink)

When you first reenter your home:

If you smell gas or suspect a leak, turn off the main gas valve, open all windows, and your house immediately. Notify the gas company or the police or fire departments or State Fire Marshal’s office, and do not turn on the lights or do anything that could cause a spark. Do not return until you are told it is safe to do so.
If the house has been closed up for several days, enter briefly to open doors and windows to let the house air out for a while (at least 30 minutes) before you stay for any length of time.
If your home has been flooded and has been closed up for several days, assume your home has mold.
If your home has been flooded, it also may be contaminated with sewage. See Floodwater After a Disaster or Emergency.

https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/floods/after.html

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

How to proceed when your home floods

4/6/2020 (Permalink)

Let’s look more closely at how to proceed when your home floods.

Renters: Call Your Landlord
As soon as you and everyone who lives in the home are safe, let your landlord know what’s happened. (Now is a great time to make sure that your landlord’s number is in your cellphone and also written down and stored in your car’s glove compartment.)

Homeowners: Call Your Insurer
Call your insurer and explain that your home has suffered water damage. Make sure to clarify whether you need to wait for an adjuster to visit your home before you begin the cleanup and repair processes.

Document Everything When thinking about what to do if your house floods, the first thing that probably comes to mind is cleaning up the mess. But before you do, document everything so you can show your insurer the extent of the damage. Use your cellphone camera to film or photograph all aspects of the issue. The water that’s flooding your home may include sewage or other hazardous material, so you need to take extreme precautions to not touch it. Before going into the home, suit up with appropriate protective gear, such as waders and waterproof boots.

https://www.safewise.com/home-security-faq/house-flood/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Avoid electrical hazards inside or outside your home.

4/6/2020 (Permalink)

Avoid electrical hazards inside or outside your home.

After a hurricane, flood or other natural disaster you need to be careful to avoid electrical hazards both in your home and elsewhere.

Shut off electrical power and natural gas or propane tanks in your home to avoid fire, electrocution, or explosions.
NEVER touch a fallen power line. Call the power company to report fallen power lines. Avoid contact with overhead power lines during cleanup and other activities.
Do not drive through standing water if downed power lines are in the water.
If you believe someone has been electrocuted, call or have someone else call 911 or emergency medical help.

https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/floods/floodsafety.html

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Staying Safe After a Storm

4/3/2020 (Permalink)

Staying Safe After a Storm

Listen to the radio for advisories and other instructions.
Do not venture outside until it has been declared safe to do so.
Stay away from downed power lines and avoid standing water or metal objects near downed wires.
Leave and do not enter buildings that have sustained structural damage.
Stay away from damaged trees and dangling or broken limbs.
Do not swim or wade in flood waters.
Check on neighbors, especially those who are elderly or disabled.
Watch out for snakes or other wild animals.
Turn the gas off at the meter if you smell gas.
Do not drive unless absolutely necessary.
If you must drive, watch for undermined roads and damaged bridges.
Do not attempt to drive through flooded streets or bridges.
Avoid using candles or other open flames indoors.
Keep a fire extinguisher handy at all times.
Test battery powered smoke and CO alarms.
Make sure your sewer system is working before flushing toilets.
Keep pets indoors and use a leash when taking them outside.
Operate generators outdoors in the open away from windows and doors.
Don’t eat perishable food that has warmed to over 40° F.

https://todayshomeowner.com/dealing-with-storm-damage-to-your-home/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

What Do I Do If My House Floods?

4/3/2020 (Permalink)

What Do I Do If My House Floods?

The basics of what to do after a flood include the following: stopping the water at its source, turning off the electricity only if you can do so without stepping into water, and evacuating the premises. You’ll also need to contact your insurer (or your landlord, if you rent), document everything, and then clean up to prevent further damage from mold.

A flooded home can be the result of external events—such as extreme weather—or internal issues, including plumbing failures. No matter what the source of water is, there are steps you must take to protect your family, save your home and recoup as much of the cost of repairs as possible from your insurer.

https://www.safewise.com/home-security-faq/house-flood/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

What to do during a Tornado

4/3/2020 (Permalink)

What to do during a Tornado

Find out what you can do when a tornado strikes. Acting quickly is key to staying safe and minimizing impacts.

Stay Weather Ready: Continue to listen to local news or a NOAA Weather radio to stay updated about tornado watches and warnings.
At Your House: If you are in a tornado warning, go to your basement, safe room, or an interior room away from windows. Don’t forget pets if time allows.
At Your Workplace or School: Follow your tornado drill and proceed to your tornado shelter location quickly and calmly. Stay away from windows and do not go to large open rooms such as cafeterias, gymnasiums, or auditoriums.
Outside: Seek shelter inside a sturdy building immediately if a tornado is approaching. Sheds and storage facilities are not safe. Neither is a mobile home or tent. If you have time get to a safe building.
In a Vehicle: Being in a vehicle during a tornado is not safe. The best course of action is to drive to the closet shelter. If you are unable to make it to a safe shelter, either get down in your car and cover your head, or abandon your car and seek shelter in a low-lying area such as a ditch or a ravine.

https://www.weather.gov/safety/tornado-during

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

How to Deal with Residential Water Damage

3/6/2020 (Permalink)

How to Deal with Water Damage

Water may be essential to human life, but it can spell death for a home. Water damage can cause all sorts of a headache for homeowners, both immediately after the damage occurs and in the long run. From floods to leaky faucets, water damage is a serious pain and can cause significant health and safety issues. Follow this guide to stop, repair, and prevent water damage in your home.

Stop the flow of water. If the flooding has been caused by a burst pipe or a water heater failure, shut off the main water line for your home.

Get in touch with an expert immediately if you cannot tell from where the water is coming.

Turn off the power. If your home is flooded, cut off the electricity and gas from the main source. This isn't as essential for small leaks or puddles, but for large floods turn them off to be safe. [1]

Do not handle electrical appliances unless you are properly insulated.
If you have to stand in water to turn off the main electricity, consult with an electrician.

https://www.wikihow.com/Deal-with-Residential-Water-Damage

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Storm Damage?

3/6/2020 (Permalink)

Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Storm Damage?

Homeowners insurance may help cover certain causes of storm damage, including wind, hail and lightning. However, damage caused by flood and earthquakes typically is not covered by a standard homeowners insurance policy. It's important to read your policy to learn what types of storm damage may or may not be covered.

WHAT TYPES OF STORM DAMAGE DOES HOMEOWNERS INSURANCE COVER?

Homeowners insurance typically helps cover the following types of storm damage:

Water and Ice Damage
Lightning Strikes and Power Surges
Wind, Hail and Fallen Trees

Water and Ice Damage

Whether it's a thunderstorm in the spring or a roof covered in ice, water can damage a home. While ice and hail damage are typically covered by homeowners insurance — up to the limits stated in your policy — coverage for water damage varies, depending on the cause. For example, you may find homeowners insurance helps protect you if a frozen pipe bursts in your home. Review your policy to learn what types of water damage it covers.

https://www.allstate.com/tr/home-insurance/homeowners-insurance-cover-storm-damage.aspx

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Mold

3/6/2020 (Permalink)

Should I be worried about mold? It typically takes two to three days after a water damage event for mold growth to start. Flooded buildings should be pumped out , disinfected and dried as soon as possible to prevent mold growth. HVAC systems should be shut down and isolated. Workers required to clean-up mold must be properly trained and equipped.

What other hazards should I be worried about? If you work in a building that was constructed before 1980, that building could have materials that contain either lead or asbestos. Asbestos containing building materials (ACM)can be damaged in floods and potentially release hazardous fibers. Strict laws require building owners to determine the location and quantity of ACM in their buildings. Properly trained and equipped personnel should ensure that any building ACM has not been damaged before workers re-occupy the building. I have been asked to be part of the building clean up, what should I do? Flood clean-up workers need training and protective equipment. If you are asked to participate see the information sheet for CSEA members responding to flood affected areas to know what protective clothing and training that should be provided by your employer. Contact your authorized representatives to discuss any questions or concerns. Notify your supervisor if you have any health or medical conditions, such as high blood pressure; heart or respiratory conditions; or insect, plant or mold allergies as they may affect your ability to do the work.

https://cseany.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Working-in-and-Cleaning-Up-Flooded-Buildings.pdf

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Mold prevention

3/4/2020 (Permalink)

Mold prevention

To prevent mold, eliminate moisture to make your home inhospitable to its growth. Here are some DOs and DON'Ts for mold prevention.

DO use air conditioners or dehumidifiers to keep the humidity level in your home between 30 percent to 60 percent.
DO put exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms.
DO clean your bathrooms with bleach and other mold killing products.
DO add mold inhibitors to wall and ceiling paints before application.
DO inspect hoses, pipes and fittings to insure leaks won't cause dampness. Consider replacing hoses to major appliances like washer and dishwasher every five years, just to be safe: a typical water hose costs as little as $10. Major appliances with water hoses include refrigerator ice makers and water dispensers, water heaters, washers, dishwashers, kitchen and bathroom sinks and bathroom toilets.
DO maintain your roof to prevent water from seeping into your home.
DON'T let gutters get full of leaves and other debris—clean them regularly.
DON'T install carpets in damp areas such as basements or bathrooms.
DON'T let water accumulate under houseplants.

https://www.iii.org/article/protecting-your-house-mold

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of you restoration needs.

Prevent basement water seepage

3/4/2020 (Permalink)

Prevent basement water seepage

Reseal your basement.Water in the basement is often caused by cracks in building foundations or floor slabs. If you notice water seepage after heavy rain when you've never had a problem, it may mean that your once-waterproof cement floors and basement walls have deteriorated. Painting vulnerable areas with water sealant can prevent seepage.
Make sure water drains away from the building.Seepage is exacerbated by soil that has settled in a way to make water flow toward the building. After a storm, and especially if the ground is already saturated, rainwater that flows towards the building goes down the outside of the foundation wall potentially through any cracks.
Install a backwater valve.Though less common than other causes of basement water, sewer backups are messy. Learn more about your sewer responsibilities and install and maintain a backwater valve, which allows sewage to go out, but not come back in.

https://www.iii.org/article/how-protect-your-home-water-damage

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your mitigation needs.

Blood Spills on Carpeted Floors

3/3/2020 (Permalink)

Blood Spills on Carpeted Floors

Put on Disposable Gloves: No matter what type of surface you’re cleaning, always put gloves on first.

Contain the Spill: After a spill, it is important to keep it as contained as possible to avoid allowing the affected area to spread. Create a barrier around the spill with an absorbent material.

Initial Disinfect: Once the area is contained, spray the affected area with an appropriate carpet detergent to help kill some of the surviving pathogens. After spraying the area, allow it to sit for 10 minutes so the disinfectant has time to work.

Blot up Excess Fluids: Use disposable towels or rags to blot as much excess fluid as you can and then carefully dispose of the soiled rags in a sealable bag.

Extract Absorbed Fluids: The carpet will absorb some of the fluid so removing them will be the next step. Use a wet-vacuum to thoroughly wet and remove any fluids. Repeat the process of wetting and suctioning several times. While wetting the affected area be sure to prevent any water from spreading beyond the initial boundary.

Re-disinfect: After vacuuming, thoroughly re-saturate the area with an appropriate disinfectant. Follow your carpet manufacturer’s recommendations since certain products can damage carpet fibers and dyes.

Let Sit: After completely disinfecting the area, allow the disinfectant to set and work for up to 20 minutes to make sure it has the full effect.

Third Disinfect: Repeat the previous two steps of disinfecting and then allowing to sit for 10-20 minutes.

Rinse: Once the final round of disinfecting is complete, rinse the area one last time to remove any remaining detergent or disinfecting solution. After rinsing, wet-vacuum the area.

Dry: Next, dry the area thoroughly with rags to draw out any remaining moisture and then place fans near the area to completely dry it,

Wrap up: After the area is clean, properly dispose of all rags and PPE contaminated by the spill. In addition, thoroughly clean all other equipment used during the spill cleanup.

https://cultureofsafety.thesilverlining.com/safety-tips/proper-blood-clean-up/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Causes of sewer backups

3/3/2020 (Permalink)

Causes of sewer backups

While most basement water problems are not caused by sewer backups, the Civil Engineering Research Foundation reports that the number of backed up sewers is increasing at an alarming rate of about 3 percent annually. There are a number of causes of sewer backups—here are some of the most common.

Aging sewer systems ? The American Society of Civil Engineers indicates that the nation's 500,000-plus miles of sewer lines are on average over thirty years old. The increase in the number of homes connected to already aging sewage systems has also contributed to rapid increases in sanitary sewer backups, flooded basements and overflows.
Combined pipelines ? Problems arise in systems that combine storm water and raw sewage into the same pipeline. During many rain storms, the systems are exposed to more volume than they can handle, and the result is a sewage backup situation that allows sewage to spew out into basements and other low lying drains.

https://www.iii.org/article/protect-your-house-from-sewer-backups

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

How to prevent backups in your sewer

3/3/2020 (Permalink)

How to prevent backups in your sewer

Replace your line with new plastic pipe. Plastic pipe will prevent tree roots from entering your line is to replace your line and tap with new plastic pipe.
Correct illegal plumbing connections.Do not connect French drains, sump pumps and other flood control systems to your sanitary sewer. It is illegal to do so, and debris and silt will clog your line. Consult a plumber to correct any pre-existing illegal connections.
Install a backwater prevention valve, which is a fixture installed into a sewer line (and sometimes into a drain line) in the basement of your home or business to prevent sewer backflows. A properly installed and maintained backwater valve allows sewage to go out, but not to come back in. Be sure to use a qualified plumber.

https://www.iii.org/article/protect-your-house-from-sewer-backups

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration/mitigation needs.

Bio hazard Cleanup

3/2/2020 (Permalink)

Whenever you clean up blood or body fluids:

Restrict access to the area.
Wear gloves (latex or nitrile) to protect your hands. Avoid tearing your gloves on equipment or sharp objects. Torn gloves should be replaced immediately.
Use additional personal protection equipment, as needed (e.g., leak-proof apron and/or eye protection).
Use disposable towels or mats to soak up most of the blood.
Clean with an appropriate disinfecting solution, such as ten parts water to one-part bleach. Bleach will kill both HIV and hepatitis B virus. After cleaning, promptly disinfect mops and any other cleaning equipment, otherwise, you may spread the viruses to other areas.
Put all contaminated towels and waste in a Red Bag or other appropriate sealed, labeled (Biohazard symbol or label), leak-proof container. This is regulated waste; call Environmental Management (323-6280) for pickup.

https://ehs.uky.edu/clean.html

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here 24/7 365 for all of you restoration needs.

Blood Spills on Non-Carpeted Floors

3/2/2020 (Permalink)

How to Clean Up Blood in Different Types of Conditions

Blood Spills on Non-Carpeted Floors

A hard, non-carpeted surface is the most common setting for blood spills. These surfaces include tile, ceramic, vinyl, linoleum, metal, wood, cement, and any other non-absorbent flooring such as a pool deck. Cleaning up blood and other bodily fluids off these surface types is easier than absorbent surfaces, but there are still important steps for you to consider.

Spills on hard surfaces often spread over larger areas so it will be necessary to contain the spill quickly. The procedures for cleaning up spills on these surfaces are:

Block off the area until cleanup and disinfection is complete. No visitors or unprotected staff members should be able to access the area.
Put on disposable gloves.
Wipe up the spill as much as possible with paper towel or other absorbent material.
Gently pour bleach solution – 1 part bleach to 9 parts water – onto all contaminated areas.
Let bleach solution remain on contaminated area for 20 minutes and then wipe up remaining bleach solution.
All non-disposable cleaning materials such as mops, brushes and rags need to be disinfected by saturating with a bleach solution and then allowed to air dry.
Remove gloves and place in a garbage bag with all other soiled cleaning materials.
Double bag and securely tie up garbage bags and discard.
Thoroughly wash hands with soap and water.

https://cultureofsafety.thesilverlining.com/safety-tips/proper-blood-clean-up/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Fire Safety Equipment

2/11/2020 (Permalink)

Fire Extinguishers

Consider having one or more working fire extinguishers in your home. An extinguisher rated “A-B-C” is recommended for home use. Many fire extinguisher models are designed for one-time use and cannot be recharged.
Get training from the fire department or a fire extinguisher manufacturer.Fire extinguishers from various manufacturers operate in different ways and there is no time to read directions during an emergency. Only adults should handle and use extinguishers.
Install extinguishers high on the wall, near an exit, and away from heat sources. Extinguishers should be easily accessible to adults trained to use them, and kept away from children's curious hands. Heat may make the contents less effective or cause the extinguisher to lose its charge more quickly.

https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/fire/fire-safety-equipment.html

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

What Should You Do in Case of a Flood?

2/10/2020 (Permalink)

What Should You Do in Case of a Flood?

If your house or apartment is flooded, the first step you need to take is to make sure the scene poses no additional safety hazards.

Turn off the water line—if that is the source of the flooding—to prevent further damage.
Disconnect electrical appliances and switch off all electrical fuses, even if the power is already out, to eliminate the risk of electrocution.
Alert your utility providers if you suspect any damage to your gas, water, electricity, or sewage lines, as those will require professional attention.
Check your home for any structural damage caused by the flooding, such as a warped floor or a sagging ceiling.

https://www.valuepenguin.com/homeowners-insurance/what-to-do-house-flooded

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

How To Clean Up Flood Water

2/10/2020 (Permalink)

How To Clean Up Flood Water

Once you've documented the damage and initiated your claim, you can begin the cleaning process. Depending on the scope and source of the flooding, you may be able to manage the clean-up yourself, or you may need to hire a professional.

Open windows: Unless it leads to further flooding, open as many windows as you can to increase air circulation.
Remove water:Prolonged contact with water can cause additional damage, such as the swelling of wooden floorboards, so try to remove standing water as quickly as possible with a shop vacuum or water pump.
Scrub carpet: Use carpet cleaner to thoroughly scrub salvageable rugs and carpet, then dry them as quickly as possible. However, if the flood water is contaminated with sewage, dispose of all carpeting.
Clean furniture: Consult a professional to clean your upholstered furniture, and throw out any soaked mattresses.
Remove floorboards: If you have wooden floors, remove a floorboard every few feet so that swelling doesn't cause your floor to buckle. Your adjuster will tell you if any additional floorboards, tile, or vinyl needs to be removed in order to allow the subfloor to dry. Allow wooden floors to gradually dry so that the wood doesn't crack.
Sanitize all surfaces: After you've scrubbed hard surfaces, sanitize them with diluted chlorine bleach.

https://www.valuepenguin.com/homeowners-insurance/what-to-do-house-flooded

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Fire Safety Equipment

2/10/2020 (Permalink)

SMOKE ALARMS

If you have a fire, smoke alarms can cut nearly in half your risk of dying in a fire.Smoke alarms sense abnormal amounts of smoke or invisible combustion gases in the air. They can detect both smoldering and flaming fires.

In new homes: The National Fire Alarm Code (NFPA 72) requires hard-wired, interconnected smoke alarms with battery back-up on every level of the home, outside each sleeping area, and inside each bedroom. Alarms must be wired together so that if one sounds, they all sound.
In existing homes: If smoke alarms are not already in place, at a minimum install them on every level of the home and outside each sleeping area. If a fire occurs inside a bedroom, dangerous gases can cause heavier sleep. For the best protection, install interconnected smoke alarms in each bedroom and throughout the home. When one sounds, they all sound.
To prevent nuisance alarms, vacuum cobwebs and dust from your smoke alarms monthly. Never disable a smoke alarm, even if you experience nuisance alarms while cooking or showering. Instead, use the alarm’s “hush” button. If nuisance alarms are a persistent problem, look for a different type of smoke alarm and ensure they are installed in correct areas in the home.

https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/fire/fire-safety-equipment.html

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

What Happens if You Don’t Clean Your Home After a Flood?

2/5/2020 (Permalink)

What Happens if You Don’t Clean Your Home After a Flood?

Failure to completely clean up your home after a house flood can lead to severe and costly damage that can affect the hidden corners of your home without you even realizing it. Not only can this damage the structural integrity of your home, but it can lead to costly repairs for your electrical system, HVAC, etc. Above all, failure to clean up after your house floods can create perfect conditions for mold to grow. However, there are things you can do to prevent the growth of mold after a house flood, including the use of special equipment, chemicals, and utilizing a professional company. It is a smart idea to invest in an air purifier to prevent the growth and spreading of mold spores.Air purifiers can help keep your indoor air free of more than just mold spores. These appliances can also remove unpleasant odors, pollen, pet dander and more from your air, which helps promote a healthy home. It is recommended that anyone who experiences allergies or asthma symptoms invests in an air purifier.

https://learn.allergyandair.com/house-flood-cleanup-tips/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of you restoration needs

Mitigate Mold Damage

2/5/2020 (Permalink)

Mitigate Mold Damage

Mold can develop within 24 to 48 hours of a flood, says Ashley Small of FEMA, so remove wet contents, including carpeting and bedding, as soon as possible. If an item has been wet for less than 48 hours, it may be salvageable. However, you'll need to decide whether it holds enough monetary or sentimental value to try to do so. And notify your insurance company before removing items to ensure that you're not affecting coverage. Always photograph the flood-soaked items. Rugs, for example, may be dried and then cleaned professionally, which could cost $100 to $500 or more, depending on the size and number. Large pieces of furniture that are saturated will likely be difficult to dry effectively, and should often be discarded.

https://www.houselogic.com/finances-taxes/home-insurance/what-do-first-24-hours-after-flood/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Checking Utilities and Major Systems

2/5/2020 (Permalink)

Checking Utilities and Major Systems

Electrical, Plumbing and Heating Systems

If you see sparks, broken or frayed wires, or if you smell hot insulation, turn off the electricity at the main fuse box or circuit breaker.
If there is a pool of water on the floor between you and the fuse box or circuit breaker panel, use a dry wooden stick to try to reach to turn off the main fuse or breaker, but do not step or stand in water to do that. If you cannot reach the fuse box or breaker panel, call a qualified electrician for assistance.
Inspect the panel box for any breakers that may have tripped. A tripped breaker may indicate damaged wiring inside your home. Do not turn them on. Call an electrician.
Use a flashlight to inspect fuses. Replace broken fuses with exactly the same amperage rating and never use an object such as a coin or strip of metal to bypass the protection that fuses provide.
If you suspect sewage lines are damaged, avoid using sinks, showers or toilets and call a plumber.
If water pipes are damaged, turn off the water at the main valve. Call a plumber for assistance.
If you have a heating oil tank system, turn off all valves and contact a professional specializing in maintenance of such equipment before using it again.

https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/fire/checking-home-after-fire.html

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Calling the Insurance Company

2/4/2020 (Permalink)

Calling the Insurance Company

https://learn.allergyandair.com/house-flood-cleanup-tips/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Checking Your Home after a Fire

2/4/2020 (Permalink)

Check for Structural Damage

Check the outside of your home before you enter. Look for loose power lines, broken or damaged gas lines, foundation cracks, missing support beams or other damage. Damage on the outside can indicate a serious problem inside. Ask a building inspector or contractor to check the structure before you enter.
If the door is jammed, don’t force it open – it may be providing support to the rest of your home. Find another way to get inside.
Damaged locks should be taken apart and wiped with oil. If locks can’t be removed, squirt machine oil through a bolt opening or keyhole, and work the knob to distribute the oil. Hinges should also be thoroughly cleaned and oiled.
Sniff for gas. If you detect natural or propane gas, or hear a hissing noise, leave the property immediately and get well away from it. Call the fire department after you reach safety.
If you have a propane tank system, turn off all valves and contact a propane supplier to check the system out before you use it again.

https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/fire/checking-home-after-fire.html

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

When to call

2/3/2020 (Permalink)

Biohazardous techs are trained to clean up large amounts of blood and human decomposition

When to call a biohazard remediation service

A biohazard remediation contractor should be called for the following situations:

Deaths in the home or workplace
Gross filth removal
Trauma scenes
Car accidents
Feces removal
Animal infestations
Hoarding removal
Human decomposition

Questions to ask a biohazard remediation company before you hire

. How long have you been in business?

Do you have experience in the type of cleaning I need?
Do your employees have the proper training?

Biohazard remediation professionals specialize in the safe removal of biohazardous waste, often from the scene of a crime, animal infestation or accident.

https://www.angieslist.com/research/biohazard-remediation/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Take precautions

2/3/2020 (Permalink)

A home fire is a devastating event, and one that you never count on happening. Your children are most at risk when this disaster occurs. In fact, children under five are twice as likely as other people to die in a home fire. Tragically, many home fires are started by children playing with dangerous household items – especially lighters and matches. Taking sensible precautions in the home and teaching your child how to escape from a fire can help your family avoid this type of heartbreak.

Prevent Your Child from Starting Fires

The U.S. Fire Administration estimates that 300 people are killed and $280 million in property is destroyed each year as the result of children playing with fire.

Keep matches, lighters and other ignitable substances in a secured location out of your child’s reach. Only use lighters with child-resistant features.
Invest in flameless candles. These candles contain a light bulb rather than an open flame, and take the danger out of your child knocking over a candle.

https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/fire/fire-safety-for-kids.html

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs

Flood

2/3/2020 (Permalink)

One of the most damaging and devastating things you can ever experience as a homeowner is a flood. There are many causes of household flooding including:

Heavy rains
Sewer back-up
Malfunctioning sump-pump
Burst pipes

Safety First

https://learn.allergyandair.com/house-flood-cleanup-tips/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs

Did you know?

2/1/2020 (Permalink)

Did you know that if a fire starts in your home you may have as little as two minutes to escape? During a fire, early warning from a working smoke alarm plus a fire escape plan that has been practiced regularly can save lives. Learn what else to do to keep your loved ones safe!

Top Tips for Fire Safety

Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, inside bedrooms and outside sleeping areas.

Test smoke alarms every month. If they’re not working, change the batteries.

Talk with all family members about a fire escape plan and practice the plan twice a year.

If a fire occurs in your home, GET OUT, STAY OUT and CALL FOR HELP. Never go back inside for anything or anyone.

https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/fire.html

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Reduce fire risks in your home

2/1/2020 (Permalink)

Reduce fire risks in your home

Make sure your home heating sourcesare clean and in working order. Many home fires are started by poorly maintained furnaces or stoves, cracked or rusted furnace parts, or chimneys with creosote buildup.
Use kerosene heaters only if permitted by law. Refuel kerosene heaters only outdoors and after they have cooled.
Check electrical wiring in your home.
Fix or replace frayed extension cords, exposed wires, or loose plugs.
Make sure wiring is not under rugs, attached by nails, or in high traffic areas.
Make sure electrical outlets have cover plates and no exposed wiring.
Avoid overloading outlets or extension cords.
Purchase only appliances and electrical devices (including space heaters) that bear the label of an independent testing laboratory.
Store combustible materials in open areas away from heat sources.
Place rags used to apply flammable household chemicals in metal containers with tight-fitting lids.

https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/fire/home-fire-preparedness.html

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Biohazard

2/1/2020 (Permalink)

There are things you need to know and understand about crime scene cleanup

After a crime, even a violent crime, most people will not move from their home, but will need the home cleaned to remove all remnants of the violence that took place. Crime scenes cleaners have stepped up to the plate to clean, disinfect, deodorize and dispose of all contaminated waste.

This can go far beyond just wiping up blood. It may include the disposal of furniture, fabrics, carpet, padding, wallboard and other items contaminated with blood, body fluids or tissue matter. While cleaning up the remnants of a crime scene, the cleaner must be prepared for the smells and potential biohazards. They must also be compassionate to the surviving family members who are struggling to deal with the tragic event.

https://www.thejanitorialstore.com/public/Crime-Scene-Clean-Up-526.cfm

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Look for the Cause

1/29/2020 (Permalink)

Mold needs water or moisture and oxygen to grow. Water does not have to flow into the building for there to be enough moisture to promote the growth of mold. Although one-time leaks or burst water pipes may not be a problem if repaired, even a one-time leak, if not properly addressed, can cause unacceptable mold growth. There are a number of potential causes of moisture or water entry:

Lack of building maintenance
Poor building design or construction
Using wet building materials
Leaky pipes, windows, or doors
Regular, or even one-time flooding
Simple plumbing mistakes
Excessive humidity and condensation
Improper landscaping design or maintenance outside the building, causing water to flow toward the building
Any other serious water related problem
Address Moisture or Water Issues Promptly

https://www.ehstoday.com/industrial-hygiene/article/21906241/toxic-mold-what-every-employer-should-know

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs

What can you do

1/29/2020 (Permalink)

What can you do to cover your losses?

Check your insurance - Call your insurance agent to find out if your policy has a mold exclusion. If it does, ask if you can buy mold coverage. Compared to the expenses you will incur addressing a mold claim, buying this extra coverage will be well worth the cost. When your insurance is renewed annually, be sure to check your coverage, as your insurer may have placed a mold exclusion in the renewed policy.
Put your insurer on notice immediately if a claim is made - Under most insurance policies, you are obliged to notify the insurance company promptly if a claim is made. Some insurance policies have very specific requirements for notification, so call your agent and read your policy carefully. Make sure that you follow the notice procedures, which may include placing the claim in writing and sending the notice via certified mail to a particular address. Send the notice even if a lawsuit has not yet been filed.

https://www.ehstoday.com/industrial-hygiene/article/21906241/toxic-mold-what-every-employer-should-know

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Identify the Cause

1/29/2020 (Permalink)

Identify the cause of the mold. Make sure during the cleanup that it is fixed so that the mold will not return. If there was a leak in the roof, make sure its repaired. If a pipe causes a water leak in a wall, make sure its fixed. If the humidity level on your home humidifier is set too high, make sure it is turned lower. You don’t want the mold to return. Contact your insurance company and find out if mold removal is covered in your policy. In many cases it is, depending on the cause of the mold. After getting your mold test results and speaking with the mold tester, decide if you are going to remove the mold yourself or hire a professional to do it. Have the mold in your home removed. If doing it yourself, here is more information on the mold remediation process. Mold removal is a much more complex process than most people realize. You don’t want to spread the mold to other parts of your home.

https://www.mold-advisor.com/mold-in-your-home.html

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

If you think you have mold in your home

1/6/2020 (Permalink)

MOLD. THE VERY WORD CAN put terror into the eyes of a homeowner.

It looks disgusting. But it can also weaken your walls, ceilings and floor. And if you try to sell a house known to have mold, you might as well put a sign on your front lawn that reads: "Not for Sale."

So, if you think you have mold, and plenty houses do Test for mold. That's probably the last thing you or any homeowner wants to hear because mold testing can be expensive, and there are plenty of horror stories out there. If you're deeply suspicious, it'll probably be worth it to hire a mold inspection company. The average cost to test for mold – not to remove, just to test – is $834, according to HomeAdvisor.com. If that price makes you ill, you could buy a mold testing home kit, which generally runs anywhere from $10 to $50. That said, molding test kits have a reputation for being unreliable, so as the expression goes, let the buyer beware.

https://loans.usnews.com/what-to-do-if-your-house-has-mold-or-you-think-it-does

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs

Safety Steps

12/16/2019 (Permalink)

Safety Steps

If you're in a room with the door closed when the fire breaks out, you need to take a few extra steps:

Check to see if there's heat or smoke coming in the cracks around the door. (You're checking to see if there's fire on the other side.)
If you see smoke coming under the door — don't open the door!
If you don't see smoke — touch the door. If the door is hot or very warm — don't open the door!
If you don't see smoke — and the door is not hot — then use your fingers to lightly touch the doorknob. If the doorknob is hot or very warm — don't open the door!

If the doorknob feels cool, and you can't see any smoke around the door, open the door very carefully and slowly. When you open the door, if you feel a burst of heat or smoke pours into the room, quickly shut the door and make sure it is really closed. If there's no smoke or heat when you open the door, go toward your escape route exit.

https://kidshealth.org/en/kids/fire-safety.html

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

If you can't get out right away

12/16/2019 (Permalink)

What if You Can't Get Out Right Away?

If you can't get out fast, because fire or smoke is blocking an escape route, you'll want to yell for help. You can do this from an open window or call 911 if you have a phone with you.

Even if you're scared, never hide under the bed or in a closet. Then, firefighters will have a hard time finding you. Know that firefighters or other adults will be looking for you to help you out safely. The sooner they find you, the sooner you both can get out.

https://kidshealth.org/en/kids/fire-safety.html

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Checklist

12/16/2019 (Permalink)

Checklist for next steps after a fire Contact your local disaster relief service, such as the American Red Cross. They will help you find food, clothing, medicine and a place to stay. If you have insurance, contact your insurance company. Ask what you should do to keep your home safe until it is repaired. Ask who you should talk to about cleaning up your home. If you are not insured, try contacting community groups for aid and assistance. Check with the fire department to make sure that your home is safe to enter. Be very careful when you go inside. Floors and walls may not be as safe as they look. Contact your landlord or mortgage company to report the fire. Try to find valuable documents and records. If you leave your home, call the local police department to let them know the site will be vacant. Begin saving receipts for any money that you spend related to the fire loss. The receipts may be needed later by the insurance company and to prove any losses claimed on your income tax. Check with an accountant or the IRS about special benefits for people recovering from fire loss.

https://www.usfa.fema.gov/downloads/pdf/publications/fa_46.pdf

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Prevent Home Fires

11/21/2019 (Permalink)

Fireplaces and Woodstoves

Inspect and clean woodstove pipes and chimneys annually and check monthly for damage or obstructions.
Use a fireplace screen heavy enough to stop rolling logs and big enough to cover the entire opening of the fireplace to catch flying sparks.
Make sure the fire is completely out before leaving the house or going to bed.

Children

Take the mystery out of fire play by teaching children that fire is a tool, not a toy.
Store matches and lighters out of children's reach and sight, preferably in a locked cabinet.
Never leave children unattended near operating stoves or burning candles, even for a short time.

More Prevention Tips

Never use stove range or oven to heat your home.
Keep combustible and flammable liquids away from heat sources.
Portable generators should NEVER be used indoors and should only be refueled outdoors or in well ventilated areas.

https://www.ready.gov/home-fires

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Staying Safe After a Storm

11/13/2019 (Permalink)

Staying Safe After a Storm

Listen to the radio for advisories and other instructions.
Do not venture outside until it has been declared safe to do so.
Stay away from downed power lines and avoid standing water or metal objects near downed wires.
Leave and do not enter buildings that have sustained structural damage.
Stay away from damaged trees and dangling or broken limbs.
Do not swim or wade in flood waters.
Check on neighbors, especially those who are elderly or disabled.
Watch out for snakes or other wild animals.
Turn the gas off at the meter if you smell gas.
Do not drive unless absolutely necessary.
If you must drive, watch for undermined roads and damaged bridges.
Do not attempt to drive through flooded streets or bridges.
Avoid using candles or other open flames indoors.
Keep a fire extinguisher handy at all times.
Test battery powered smoke and CO alarms.
Make sure your sewer system is working before flushing toilets.
Keep pets indoors and use a leash when taking them outside.
Operate generators outdoors in the open away from windows and doors.
Don’t eat perishable food that has warmed to over 40° F.

https://todayshomeowner.com/dealing-with-storm-damage-to-your-home/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your mitigation and restoration needs.

Types of Weather Damage That May Be Covered

11/13/2019 (Permalink)

Types of Weather Damage That May Be Covered

The most common types of weather-related damage include:

Hail damage
Roof damage
Water damage
Wind damage
Sewer back-up
Frozen pipes
Fallen trees
Ice dams
Power failure
Flooding

Although not all damage is covered by standard homeowners' insurance, most of the above items are, with flood damage being the major exception. Flood damage is not usually covered by most home insurance companies. However, you may be able to buy flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program. You can find out more about national flood insurance on the FEMA website.

Damage that crosses boundary lines can raise questions about whose responsibility it is to cover repairs. If a toppled tree damages your home and your neighbor's, both you and your neighbor should contact your respective insurance companies. Your insurance providers will help determine responsibility and how to pay for repairs.

https://www.thebalance.com/weather-water-damage-home-insurance-coverage-3862186

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Learn about Fires

11/11/2019 (Permalink)

In just two minutes, a fire can become life-threatening. In five minutes, a residence can be engulfed in flames.

Learn About Fires

Fire is FAST!In less than 30 seconds a small flame can turn into a major fire. It only takes minutes for thick black smoke to fill a house or for it to be engulfed in flames.
Fire is HOT!Heat is more threatening than flames. Room temperatures in a fire can be 100 degrees at floor level and rise to 600 degrees at eye level. Inhaling this super-hot air will scorch your lungs and melt clothes to your skin.
Fire is DARK!Fire starts bright, but quickly produces black smoke and complete darkness.
Fire is DEADLY!Smoke and toxic gases kill more people than flames do. Fire produces poisonous gases that make you disoriented and drowsy. Asphyxiation is the leading cause of fire deaths, exceeding burns by a three-to-one ratio.

https://www.ready.gov/home-fires

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

During a Fire

11/11/2019 (Permalink)

During a Fire

Crawl low under any smoke to your exit - heavy smoke and poisonous gases collect first along the ceiling.
Before opening a door, feel the doorknob and door. If either is hot, or if there is smoke coming around the door, leave the door closed and use your second way out.
If you open a door, open it slowly. Be ready to shut it quickly if heavy smoke or fire is present.
If you can’t get to someone needing assistance, leave the home and call 9-1-1 or the fire department. Tell the emergency operator where the person is located.
If pets are trapped inside your home, tell firefighters right away.
If you can’t get out, close the door and cover vents and cracks around doors with cloth or tape to keep smoke out. Call 9-1-1 or your fire department. Say where you are and signal for help at the window with a light-colored cloth or a flashlight.
If your clothes catch fire, stop, drop, and roll – stop immediately, drop to the ground, and cover your face with your hands. Roll over and over or back and forth until the fire is out. If you or someone else cannot stop, drop, and roll, smother the flames with a blanket or towel. Use cool water to treat the burn immediately for 3 to 5 minutes. Cover with a clean, dry cloth. Get medical help right away by calling 9-1-1 or the fire department.

https://www.ready.gov/home-fires

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

After a Fire

11/11/2019 (Permalink)

The following checklist serves as a quick reference and guide for you to follow after a fire strikes.

Contact your local disaster relief service, such as The Red Cross, if you need temporary housing, food and medicines.
If you are insured, contact your insurance company for detailed instructions on protecting the property, conducting inventory and contacting fire damage restoration companies. If you are not insured, try contacting private organizations for aid and assistance.
Check with the fire department to make sure your residence is safe to enter. Be watchful of any structural damage caused by the fire.
The fire department should see that utilities are either safe to use or are disconnected before they leave the site. DO NOT attempt to reconnect utilities yourself.
Conduct an inventory of damaged property and items. Do not throw away any damaged goods until after an inventory is made.
Try to locate valuable documents and records. Refer to information on contacts and the replacement process inside this brochure.
Begin saving receipts for any money you spend related to fire loss. The receipts may be needed later by the insurance company and for verifying losses claimed on income tax.
Notify your mortgage company of the fire.

https://www.ready.gov/home-fires

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

How to protect your business from wind and hail damage

11/5/2019 (Permalink)

Inspect your roof

Examine your building’s roof for damage after storms, or annually in regions that are less prone to storms. Replace any worn materials or other weak areas to ensure that leaks don’t occur during future storms. Check flashing (a type of sheet metal used for waterproofing) and gutters, and clean out any debris that may be blocking drainage. Remove branches or leaves that may have accumulated during prior storms.

Install impact-resistant windows

Impact-resistant glass has been specially treated to help prevent shattering and to provide an extra barrier to safeguard your building from severe weather. While it’s still possible for it to break, it’s less likely to shatter completely, offering better protection from flying glass and debris during a hurricane or hailstorm.

Secure equipment and valuables

If you live in an area prone to strong winds or hail, keep an eye on the weather forecast so that you can protect your valuables before a storm hits. Ensure any high-value items are in a safe and secure area, stored up high and away from windows. Any outdoor equipment should be securely fastened so it’s not lost or turned into a projectile during a storm.

Keep your employees safe

In the event of a storm, safety is of the utmost concern. Stay away from windows, and take shelter in the safest part of your property. If your building doesn’t have a designated storm shelter, have employees take shelter in an area devoid of windows, such as a lavatory or break room.

Prepare an emergency plan ahead of time and communicate it with employees, so they’ll know what to expect. Practice an emergency drill if possible, so that everyone will be prepared if weather conditions are threatening your safety.

https://www.insureon.com/blog/how-to-protect-your-business-from-wind-hail-damage

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of you restoration needs.

How to Prepare Your Home for a Storm

10/14/2019 (Permalink)

Clear limbs and trim trees

During a storm, dead tree limbs can get loose and cause damage to a home’s exterior or even puncture a window. Heavy rain can also cause trees with shallow root systems to pull out of the ground.

Secure fences

Ensure that your fences are properly secured so to help prevent them from being lifted up and thrown against the house by heavy winds.

Secure furniture

Check Gutters

Help Prevent damage inside your house by having downspouts drain away from you home and clear your gutters of any debris.

https://blog.nationwide.com/news/storm-preparation-tips-for-home/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Its never too early to prepare

10/14/2019 (Permalink)

It's never too early to prepare your family and your home for severe weather.

The basics

Know the severe weather risks in your area.
Prepare a Storm Readiness Kit.
Sit down with your family and develop a planin case of severe weather.
Take pictures or videos of your house and valuables for insurance purposes.

Hurricanes

Prepare shutters or other coverings for doors and windows.
Reinforce the roof trusses—a cool-weather job.
Examine and repair roof shingles—do it while the weather’s cool or overcast.
Caulkopenings, flashings and soffits.
Reinforce the entry doorsand round up exterior covering as required.
Replace hard mulch with soft material.
Buy and install a backflow-prevention device in your sewer line.
Trim your trees and bushes.
Purchase supplies for your Storm Readiness Kit.
Purchase generator, gas cans, carbon monoxide detectors and extension cords.
Decide how to tie down large outdoor equipment, and purchase supplies.
Reinforce or replace your garage door.
Purchase supplies for cleanup and repair.

https://www.familyhandyman.com/smart-homeowner/prepare-your-home-for-a-storm-checklist/

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Prepare your home for Storms

10/14/2019 (Permalink)

Spring is known for its rapidly changing weather — and that can mean severe storms. Help get your home and family ready with these tips.

Stow your gear. When strong winds are forecast, secure patio furniture and other yard items or put them in your garage or a shed so they don't become dangerous projectiles.

Cover up. Close and secure storm shutters if your home has them. Keep blinds and shades drawn and tape or tack window coverings around the edges to help protect you from broken, flying glass. Tie thick blankets over vehicles that are exposed to the elements to diminish damage from hail.

If power outages are common in your area, prepare an emergency kit and keep it in a central location in your home.

Basic supplies should include:

Flashlight and fresh batteries
Battery or solar-powered weather radio and/or transistor radio
First aid supplies
Hand sanitizer or wipes
Three-day supply of canned or dried food and water

https://www.statefarm.com/simple-insights/residence/prepare-your-home-for-spring-storms

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What are Molds?

10/11/2019 (Permalink)

Molds are fungi that can be found both indoors and outdoors. No one knows how many species of fungi exist but estimates range from tens of thousands to perhaps three hundred thousand or more. Molds grow best in warm, damp, and humid conditions, and spread and reproduce by making spores. Mold spores can survive harsh environmental conditions, such as dry conditions, that do not support normal mold growth.

What are some of the common indoor molds?

Cladosporium
Penicillium
Alternaria
Aspergillus

Where are molds found?

Molds are found in virtually every environment and can be detected, both indoors and outdoors, year-round. Mold growth is encouraged by warm and humid conditions. Outdoors they can be found in shady, damp areas or places where leaves or other vegetation is decomposing. Indoors they can be found where humidity levels are high, such as basements or showers.

https://www.cdc.gov/mold/faqs.htm#indoor

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How can people decrease mold exposure?

10/11/2019 (Permalink)

Sensitive individuals should avoid areas that are likely to have mold, such as compost piles, cut grass, and wooded areas. Inside homes, mold growth can be slowed by controlling humidity levels and ventilating showers and cooking areas. If there is mold growth in your home, you should clean up the mold and fix the water problem. Mold growth can be removed from hard surfaces with commercial products, soap and water, or a bleach solution of no more than 1 cup of household laundry bleach in 1 gallon of water. Follow the manufacturers’ instructions for use (see product label).

If you choose to use bleach to clean up mold:

Never mix bleach with ammonia or other household cleaners. Mixing bleach with ammonia or other cleaning products will produce dangerous, toxic fumes.
Open windows and doors to provide fresh air.
Wear rubber boots, rubber gloves, and goggles during cleanup of affected area.
Remove all of the mud and dirt on the floor first. Bleach, soap, or any other product will not reliably remove mold from a muddy or dirty floor.
If the area to be cleaned is more than 10 square feet, consult the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) guide titled Mold Remediation in Schools and Commercial Buildings. Although focused on schools and commercial buildings, this document also applies to other building types.
Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using bleach or any other cleaning product.

https://www.cdc.gov/mold/faqs.htm#indoor

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Don't panic

10/10/2019 (Permalink)

A lot of people panic in this situation and end up wasting time, and every second wasted is costing the business money. If you’re living in a flood risk area and you’re worried about the potential of flooding, these are the steps that you need to take right away.

Safety Always Comes First

In a crisis situation like this, your first priority should always be the safety of you and your employees. The biggest danger in a flood situation is electrical devices so the first thing that you should always do is switch off the power to the building to reduce the risk. You should also avoid turning on any lights or electrical devices if possible. When you’re navigating the building, make sure to proceed carefully and be aware of your surroundings. If there are any sagging ceilings, for example, keep your distance and don’t walk directly underneath them because there is the chance that they could collapse. Make sure that nobody is using any electrical appliances at all when they’re standing on a wet surface.

In this situation, you might think that it’s a good idea to try to save some expensive equipment like computers before they sustain water damage but this is too dangerous. Unplugging and carrying electrical equipment, even if it isn’t switched on, is a big risk. At this point, you need to accept that the damage is already done and always put safety first.

Once the power to the building is switched off, you should get everybody outside and start thinking about your next steps.

https://www.extremeuncertainty.com/7-steps-to-take-if-your-office-is-flooded/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs,

Water damage at your office?

10/10/2019 (Permalink)

Carry Out An Inventory Of The Building

Next, you need to know exactly what you’ve lost in the flood and what you need to replace so you can get an idea of exactly how much this is all going to cost you. You should already have an inventory of everything in the office, if you don’t you need to write one as soon as possible. Check everything against this inventory and mark off anything that has been damaged beyond repair. Then you can start adding up the cost of replacing things like computers and furniture. You also need to look at the damage to the actual building so you know who you need to call in for repairs. Are the carpets soaked through? Has the water started seeping into the walls? Is it coming through ceilings? Once you have a thorough list of all of the damage, you can start putting a plan in place to fix it.

Put Your Plan Into Action

Now it’s time to put that plan into action. In the event of a leak, the first person you should call is a plumber because you need to ensure that the pipes are all secured and there isn’t going to be another leak as soon as you switch the water back on. Then you’ll need to call damp specialists to help dry out the building. When the building itself is in good shape, you need to call people in to start sorting out the interiors.

Boost Defences

When the business is up and running again, you should think about boosting your defences in case of another flood in future. That means learning how to spot the signs of a leak and taking measures to keep pipes well maintained so that they aren’t as likely to leak again. If you’re in a flood risk area, you should look into putting up more defences around the building to divert flood water.

Flooding is never going to be good news for your business but as long as you follow these steps and take action quickly, you can get things up and running again in no time.

https://www.extremeuncertainty.com/7-steps-to-take-if-your-office-is-flooded/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Cleaning up and removing smoke odor

10/8/2019 (Permalink)

Cleaning up and removing smoke odor

Products containing tri-sodium phosphate (TSP) can reduce odors in fabrics. TSP is caustic so be careful! Read the label for directions and safety instructions.
Test garments before using any treatment, and follow the manufacturer's instructions. Smoke odor and soot can sometimes be washed from clothing that can be bleached. Measure 4 to 6 tbsp. Tri-Sodium Phosphate and 1 cup household cleaner or chlorine bleach for every gallon of warm water you will use. Alternatively, consider washing clothes in cold water with your usual household laundry detergent, and adding one tablespoon of pure vanilla extract.
To remove soot and smoke from walls, furniture and floors, use a mild soap or detergent or mix together 4 to 6 tbsp. tri-sodium phosphate and 1 cup household cleaner or chlorine bleach to every gallon of warm water. Wear rubber gloves. Be sure to rinse surfaces with clear warm water and dry thoroughly.

https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/fire/cleaning-up-after-fire.html

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What to expect after a fire

10/8/2019 (Permalink)

What to expect after a fire

https://www.usfa.fema.gov/downloads/pdf/publications/fa_46.pdf

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Bio-hazard Safety

9/30/2019 (Permalink)

Biohazardous materials require special safety precautions and procedures. Follow these guidelines when working with infectious agents:

Personal Hygiene Guidelines

Wash your hands thoroughly, as indicated below:

After working with any biohazard
After removing gloves, laboratory coat, and other contaminated protective clothing
Before eating, drinking, smoking, or applying cosmetics
Before leaving the laboratory area

Do not touch your face when handling biological material.
Never eat, drink, smoke, or apply cosmetics in the work area.

Clothing Guidelines

Always wear a wrap-around gown or scrub suit, gloves, and a surgical mask when working with infectious agents or infected animals.
Wear gloves over gown cuffs.
Never wear contact lenses around infectious agents.
Do not wear potentially contaminated clothing outside the laboratory area.
To remove contaminated clothing, follow these steps:
Remove booties from the back.
Remove head covering from the peak.
Untie gown while wearing gloves.
Remove gloves by peeling them from the inside out.
Remove the gown by slipping your finger under the sleeve cuff of the gown.

https://www.fss.txstate.edu/ehsrm/safetymanual/biologic/genbioguid.html

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

restoration & clean up

9/19/2019 (Permalink)

Furnishings and Carpets

Remove all furniture, bedding, and carpeting to outdoors to be cleaned and dried (or discarded).

Flooded carpets and rugs are best replaced since flood water may contain contaminants. Flooded carpet pads should always be discarded and replaced.
Remove water-logged rugs, carpets, and pads within 48 hours after flooding subsides.
If salvage is attempted, spread out rugs and carpets outdoors. Hose off. If soiled, professionally clean or work in carpet shampoo with a broom. Rinse well with a solution of 1 gallon water and 2 tablespoons liquid household chlorine bleach to sanitize (if colorfast). If carpet is wool, do not add bleach.
Dry the carpet and subfloor thoroughly as quickly as possible. If carpet is installed damp, it can mildew.
Carpet might shrink, but a professional may be able to stretch it.
All upholstered furniture and mattresses contaminated by flood water should be discarded. If an upholstered furniture piece is valuable, the stuffing and upholstering will need to be replaced. Solid wood, metal and plastic furniture may be cleaned and restored. Hose off any mud, clean, sanitize and let dry completely out of direct sunlight.

https://agrilifeextension.tamu.edu/solutions/water-damage-restoration-clean-up-checklist/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Cleaning after water damage

9/19/2019 (Permalink)

Tile and Sheet Flooring

If a submerged wood subfloor swells or separates, flooring will need to be removed. (Asbestos tiles should be removed only by a trained professional.)
If the subflooring is concrete, removal of the floor covering will hasten drying of the slab, but it might not be necessary if it would ruin an otherwise unharmed material.
If water has seeped under loose sections of sheet flooring, remove the entire sheet. Ease of flooring removal depends on the type of material and adhesive. Contact a reputable dealer to find out what product and technique (if any) will loosen the adhesive.

Cleaning Wall Finishes, Woodwork, & Floors

To reduce mold and damage, clean and dry as soon as flood waters recede. Do not sand or scrape lead-based paint. Getmore information before disturbing old paint. If materials are already moldy before you can begin cleanup, get more information on avoiding mold hazards and recommended removal methods from http://www.epa.gov/mold recovery publications.

Use a phosphate-free, all-purpose, or disinfecting cleaner. Wash from top to bottom. Rinse with clean water.
One-half cup of household chlorine bleach to a gallon of water can be used on nonmetallic, colorfast surfaces as a disinfectant (to kill surface mold and bacteria) after cleaning, but it will not prevent new mold growth on materials that stay damp.
Dry thoroughly and quickly. If the utilities are on, use the air conditioning or heater, fans, and a dehumidifier or desiccants to speed drying.

https://agrilifeextension.tamu.edu/solutions/water-damage-restoration-clean-up-checklist/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Hidden signs your house could have mold

9/18/2019 (Permalink)

Does your Chimney smell weird?

Chimney sweeps don’t only remove dangerous creosote buildup; they can clean out toxic mold too. Moisture can accumulate in the porous bricks and mortar of a chimney. Rusty chimney caps or flashing that needs repair allow rain and snow to seep in, creating an environment for mold to thrive. That may be the reason you smell something funky on days when the wind is blowing in a certain direction. Fix the cap and flashing and call the chimney sweep to extinguish the mold issues. Watch out for these other scary ways your fireplace could be toxic, too!

Is the Paint bubbling on your walls?

Have you noticed that the paint is bubbling on the walls of your bathroom or near a window? One of the most common reasons paint begins to bubble is moisture. And where there’s moisture, there’s probably mold. You won’t be able to cover up the problem with a fresh coat of paint; you have to find the source of the moisture. It could be a leaky windowsill, too much humidity, or leaky plumbing. Once you fix the moisture issue, then you can repaint. Just make sure to scrape, patch, clean, and thoroughly dry the walls before rolling on the first coat. Watch out for these sneaky everyday objects you touch every day that can be toxic.

https://www.rd.com/health/wellness/hidden-signs-of-toxic-mold/

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Water Damage Restoration & Clean Up

9/18/2019 (Permalink)

For Homes, Businesses, Schools & More…

After the flood waters recede and the clean-up has been done, most folks want to get back into their homes or businesses and start rebuilding. The problem is that wood that has been submerged in water has likely absorbed a large amount of water. Rebuilding too quickly after a flood can cause continuing problems such as mold growth, insect infestations, and deterioration of the wood and wall coverings.

Flood waters are not clean water; therefore, most porous building materials must be removed and replaced with new materials.

Caution!

Inspect for structural and electrical damage from outside to determine if it is safe to enter.
Electrical safety is extremely important in floods. Check for fire hazards and gas leaks. Use battery-powered light sources.
Never mix chlorine bleach with ammonia or vinegar.
Wear sturdy shoes, rubber gloves, and eye protection.
Be watchful for fire ants, snakes, or other animals.
If mold is present, wear a respirator that can filter spores.

https://agrilifeextension.tamu.edu/solutions/water-damage-restoration-clean-up-checklist/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

preparedness

9/17/2019 (Permalink)

You can’t stop a tropical storm or hurricane, but you can take steps now to protect you and your family.

Please follow these important hurricane preparedness tips from CDC:

Prepare for a hurricane: Take basic steps now to ensure your safety should a storm hit.
Get emergency supplies: Stock your home and your car with supplies.
Make a plan: Create a family disaster plan.
Avoid flooded areas: Take precautions before, during, and after a flood.
Prepare to evacuate: Never ignore an evacuation order.
Protect older adults: Understand older adult health and medical concerns.
Protect your pets: Ensure your pet’s safety before, during, and after an emergency.
Prevent carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning after the storm: Ensure your CO detector has working batteries. Place generators outside at least 20 feet from any door, window, or vent.
Stay safe after a hurricane: Learn how to avoid injuries, make sure your food and water are safe, and clean up mold safely.

https://www.cdc.gov/features/hurricanepreparedness/index.html

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

After a storm

9/17/2019 (Permalink)

After a hurricane has passed

If you and your family were forced to leave your home – or if it has been severely damaged from the hurricane – wait for authorities to give the all-clear to re-enter. Then:

Look for flooding in the wake of a hurricane. Rising water can produce dangerous conditions hours or even days later.
Check for structural damage before going inside.
If dark, use a flashlight – not matches, a candle or a lighter. An open flame could ignite leaking gas.
Listen for reports to see when drinking water is safe.
If there is water damage, consider hiring a professional water damage cleaning service.
Otherwise, begin your cleanup as soon as possible – washing and disinfecting items that have been touched by floodwater or disposing of items that cannot be saved.
Wear a mask, gloves and coveralls when cleaning up your property to reduce exposure to hazardous material.
Use your cell phone or camera to take pictures of the damage that can be used to document your insurance claim.
Once you’ve gathered necessary documents and evidence of your claim, contact your insurance company or agent.

https://www.nationwide.com/hurricanes.jsp

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Fire Safety Tips

9/16/2019 (Permalink)

Check your Smoke Alarms

Working smoke alarms reduce the chances of dying in a fire by nearly 50 percent. They are a critical first step for staying safe, but in order to be effective, they have to be working properly.
For the best protection, install smoke alarms on every level of your home, outside every sleeping area and in each bedroom.
Use Daylight Savings Time as a reminder to check your smoke alarms. Replace conventional batteries at least once a year, even if alarms are wired directly into your home’s electrical system.
Consider installing a smoke alarm that has a 10-year battery.
Smoke alarms expire after 10 years. So if your alarm is more than 10 years old, you should install a new one.

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here 24 hours a day 7 days a week 365 days a year ready to serve you!

https://www.safekids.org/tip/fire-safety-tips

Fire Safety Tips

9/16/2019 (Permalink)

Keep Flammable Materials in Safe Areas

Remember to keep space heaters at least three feet away from anything that can burn, and always closely supervise children and pets when the heater is turned on.
Make sure you turn space heaters off when you leave the room.
If using gasoline-powered devices, store gasoline in a locked location where children cannot access it. Keep only small quantities in an approved container that has child safety features.

Don’t Over Plug

To prevent possible fires, avoid plugging several appliance cords into the same electrical socket.

Stay Focused Around the Kitchen

Use common sense in the kitchen. Limit distractions when cooking and don’t leave a hot oven or stovetop unattended.
Keep anything that can catch fire, such as dish towels or wooden spoons, away from your stovetop.
Have a fire extinguisher in the kitchen in case of emergency, and make sure you know how it works. You might be surprised that most people don’t know how to use one.

https://www.safekids.org/tip/fire-safety-tips

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Fire Drills- Be Prepared

9/16/2019 (Permalink)

Even young children (3 and older) can begin to learn what to do in case of a fire.

Install at least 1 smoke alarm on every level of your home.
Have an escape plan and practice it with your family. This will help you and your family reach safety when it counts. When a fire occurs, there will be no time for planning an escape.
Draw a floor plan of your home. Discuss with your family 2 ways to exit every room. Make sure everyone knows how to get out and that doors and windows can be easily opened to permit escape. If you live in an apartment building, never use an elevator during a fire. Use the stairs!
Agree on a meeting place. Choose a spot outside your home near a tree, street corner, or fence where everyone can meet after escaping. Teach your children that the sound of a smoke alarm means to go outside right away to the chosen place.
Know how to call the fire department. The fire department should be called from outside using a portable phone or from a neighbor's home. Whether the number is 911 or a regular phone number, everyone in the family should know it by heart. Make sure your children know your home address, too. Teach your children that firefighters are friends and never to hide from them.
Practice, practice, practice. Practice your exit drill at least twice a year. Remember that fire drills are not a race. Get out quickly, but calmly and carefully. Try practicing realistic situations. Pretend that some exits or doorways are blocked or that the lights are out. The more prepared your family is, the better your chances of surviving a fire.

https://www.healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/all-around/Pages/Fire-Safety.aspx

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Before a hurricane

9/7/2019 (Permalink)

Before a Hurricane:

All proper preparations should be done before the hurricane hits to ensure that you aren't left without certain necessities. When a major hurricane is headed toward an area, people tend to panic, and stores run out of essential staples like water, batteries, and flashlights very quickly.

Truthfully, if you live in a hurricane-prone area, you should always be stocked with the staples, so you never have to worry about the panicking crowds. You should also be prepared if you're traveling to an area that may be affected by these severe storms.

Make a Plan: When an emergency strikes, you and your family must have a plan in case you get separated. Agree on a common meeting place that is easy to find and a method of contact. Additionally, you'll want to know the safest place to hunker down during the storm, so stake out a location away from any windows when you arrive where you can take shelter.
Create a disaster kit: Whether you're visiting a hurricane-prone area or you live there, you should prepare a disaster kitin case of a sudden storm. This should consist of water (1 gallon per person per day for three days), three days’ worth of food, batteries, flashlights, a first aid kit, a cell phone with back up charger, a help whistle, garbage bags, pliers, a manual can opener, and any critical medications. Your valuable documents should be tucked away in a waterproof container as well.
Fill all of your gas tanks: This should be done as soon as possible because gas is usually one of the first things to run out before a hurricane.

https://www.tripsavvy.com/staying-safe-during-hurricane-1513589

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

During a Hurricane

9/7/2019 (Permalink)

During a Hurricane:

During the storm, howling winds, driving rain, and the threat of tornadoes can make riding out a hurricane scary. Follow these tips for staying safe in your home during a hurricane:

Stay inside and away from windows, skylights, and glass doors. Find a safe area in your home (an interior room like a closet or bathroom on the lower level).
If flooding threatens your home, turn off electricity at the main breaker.
If you lose power, turn off major appliances such as the air conditioner and water heater to reduce damage.
Do not use electrical appliances, including your computer.
Do not go outside. If the eye of the storm passes over your area, there will be a short period of calm, but at the other side of the eye, the wind speed rapidly increases to hurricane force and will come from the opposite direction. Also, do not go outside to see "what the wind feels like." It is too easy to be hit by flying debris.
Beware of lightning. Stay away from electrical equipment and don't use the phone or take a bath/shower during the storm.

https://www.tripsavvy.com/staying-safe-during-hurricane-1513589

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Thunderstorm

9/7/2019 (Permalink)

Thunderstorms, lightning and hail

Thunderstorms are often accompanied by high winds, hail, lightning, heavy rain and in rare cases can produce tornadoes. Hail is formed when updrafts in thunderclouds carry raindrops upward into extremely cold areas of the atmosphere, where they freeze and merge into lumps of ice.

Thunderstorms and lightning occur throughout Canada but less frequently in the North. On average, 10 people die each year in Canada and up to 160 are injured during such storms.
Thunderstorms are usually over within an hour, although a series of thunderstorms can last several hours.
Hailstorms occur across Canada, mostly from May to October. They are most frequent in Alberta, the southern Prairies and in southern Ontario.
Some hailstones are the size of peas while others can be as big as grapefruits.
Hail comes down at great speed, especially when accompanied by high winds and can cause serious injuries and damages.

What to do if outside

If you are caught outside and you can see lightning or hear thunder, you are in danger of being hit. Seek shelter immediately either in an enclosed building or a hard-topped vehicle. There is no safe place outside in a thunderstorm.
If caught outside far from a safe location, stay away from tall objects, such as trees, poles, wires and fences. Take shelter in a low-lying area.
Wait 30 minutes after the last rumble of thunder before going outside again.

https://www.getprepared.gc.ca/cnt/rsrcs/pblctns/svrstrms-wtd/index-en.aspx

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Preparing for a hurricane

9/5/2019 (Permalink)

Preparing for a hurricane, If you have time do this;

Fill plastic bottles with clean water for drinking.
Fill bathtubs and sinks with water for flushing the toilet or washing the floor or clothing.
Fill your car's gas tank, in case an evacuation notice is issued.
Turn off propane tanks and unplug small appliances.
Bring in anything that can be picked up by the wind, such as bicycles and patio furniture.
Move your furniture and valuables to higher floors of your home.
Turn off utilities if told to do so by authorities to prevent damage to your home or within the community. If you shut your gas off, a professional is required to turn it back on.
Unplug small appliances to reduce potential damage from power surges that may occur.

If you have pets or livestock:

Consider a precautionary evacuation of your animals, especially any large or numerous animals. Waiting until the last minute could be fatal for them and dangerous for you.
Where possible, move livestock to higher ground. If using a horse or other trailer to evacuate your animals, move sooner rather than later.
Bring your companion animals indoors and maintain direct control of them. Be sure that your pet emergency kitis ready to go in case of evacuation.

https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/hurricane.html

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

After a Hurricane

9/5/2019 (Permalink)

Returning home safely;

Stay out of any building that has water around it.
Keep away from loose or dangling power lines. Report them immediately to the power company.
Follow these tips for inspecting your home’s structure and utilities & systems after a hurricane.
Take pictures of home damage, both of the buildings and its contents, for insurance purposes.

Cleaning and repairing your home;

Wear protective clothing, including rubber gloves and rubber boots, and be cautious when cleaning up.
Learn more about how to clean up after a hurricane, including the supplies you’ll need, how to deal with contaminated food and water, and how to repair water damage.
Don’t just repair your home, build in hurricane-resistant features to help protect against future storms:
- Secure double entry doors at the top and bottom.
- Strengthen garage doors to improve wind resistance, particularly double-wide garage doors.
- Select trees that are not as subject to uprooting to replace any damaged ones. A gardening or landscaping professional can give you excellent advice.
- If your home has been significantly damaged and will require rebuilding parts or all of it, consider building a safe room.

https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/hurricane.html

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Hurricane Safety

9/5/2019 (Permalink)

Hurricane season officially starts June 1^st and lasts until November 30^th. Hurricanes can sometimes spawn tornadoes. If you live in a hurricane prone area, make sure you know where all of the evacuation routes are. Always listen to the radio and television for the latest information and instructions for your area.

A HURRICANE WATCH issued for your part of the coast indicates the possibility that you could experience hurricane conditions within 36 hours. This WATCH should trigger your family's disaster plan, and protective measures should be initiated. Especially, those actions that require extra time such as securing a boat and leaving a barrier island.

A HURRICANE WARNING issued for your part of the coast indicates that sustained winds of at least 74 mph are expected within 24 hours. Once this WARNING has been issued, your family should be in the process of completing protective actions and deciding the safest location to be during the storm.

https://www.weatherwizkids.com/weather-safety-hurricane.htm

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Hurricane

9/4/2019 (Permalink)

Hurricanes are massive storm systems that form over warm ocean waters and move toward land. Potential threats from hurricanes include powerful winds, heavy rainfall, storm surges, coastal and inland flooding, rip currents, tornadoes, and landslides. The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30. The Pacific hurricane season runs May 15 to November 30. Hurricanes: *Can happen along any U.S. coast or in any territory in the Atlantic or Pacific oceans. *Can affect areas more than 100 miles inland. *Are most active in September. If you are under a Hurricane warning, find a safe shelter right away!

Determine how to best protect yourself from high winds and flooding. *Evacuate if told to do so, *Take refuge in a designated storm shelter, or an interior room for high winds.
Listen for emergency information and alerts.
Only use generators outdoors and away from windows.
Turn around, Don’t Drown! Do not walk, swim, or drive through flood waters.

https://www.ready.gov/hurricanes

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Hurricane is 36 hours away

9/4/2019 (Permalink)

Turn on your TV or radio in order to get the latest weather updates and emergency instructions.
Restock your emergency preparedness kit. Include food and water sufficient for at least three days, medications, a flashlight, batteries, cash, and first aid supplies.
Plan how to communicate with family members if you lose power. For example, you can call, text, email or use social media. Remember that during disasters, sending text messages is usually reliable and faster than making phone calls because phone lines are often overloaded.
Review your evacuation zone, evacuation route and shelter locations. Plan with your family. You may have to leave quickly so plan ahead.
Keep your car in good working condition, and keep the gas tank full; stock your vehicle with emergency supplies and a change of clothes.
If you have NFIP flood insurance, your policy may cover up to $1000 in loss avoidance measures, like sandbags and water pumps, to protect your insured property. You should keep copies of all receipts and a record of the time spent performing the work. They should be submitted to your insurance adjuster when you file a claim to be reimbursed. Visit www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/137860 to learn more.

https://www.ready.gov/hurricanes

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Be safe after a hurricane

9/4/2019 (Permalink)

Be safe AFTER:

Listen to authorities for information and special instructions.
Be careful during clean-up. Wear protective clothing and work with someone else.
Do not touch electrical equipment if it is wet or if you are standing in water. If it is safe to do so, turn off electricity at the main breaker or fuse box to prevent electric shock.
Avoid wading in flood water, which can contain dangerous debris. Underground or downed power lines can also electrically charge the water.
Save phone calls for emergencies. Phone systems are often down or busy after a disaster. Use text messages or social media to communicate with family and friends.
Document any property damage with photographs. Contact your insurance company for assistance.

https://www.ready.gov/hurricanes

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here 24 hours a day, 7 days a week ready to help you with all of your restoration / mitigation needs! Call us today.

How to prevent storm damage

8/16/2019 (Permalink)

Think about your landscaping

Having creative landscaping designed to guide water away from your home’s foundation can help prevent flooding in your home. It's important that the ground slopes away from your house. There should be a slope of a quarter- inch per foot heading downhill away from your home's foundation. If you need to, add some soil to create this grade. Take advantage of gravity to pull the water away from the house and prevent summer storm damage.

Pack up outdoor furniture- Here’s the deal:

Your patio table and chairs look great. But in a storm, they can get turned into missiles if they get picked up by a strong gust of wind. And then they can get thrown right into your house. Ouch.

Anyways, be sure to pack up all your outdoor furniture and decorations to prevent that from happening. Avoid the chair-smashes-a-window scenario and spare yourself the headache of dealing with the storm damage.

Know how to shut off your utilities

If the weather gets really severe, you may need to turn off your utilities. Know how to do this ahead of time so you’re not guessing and saying “umm” a lot when a storm hits.

https://insurancehub.com/prevent-storm-damage/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Protect your home

8/16/2019 (Permalink)

Install a Standby Generator

You’ll have electricity to run essential appliances and your central air system. A standby generator can even reduce your chances of flood damage by keeping your sump pump running.

It’s permanently installed outside your home and fueled by liquid propane or natural gas. Since it’s wired directly into your home’s electrical system, it can automatically restore power in seconds. Price depends on the size of your home and the amount of wattage needed, anywhere from around $3,000 to $16,000.

Tip: If the ticket price is too high, you can opt for a portable generator. They’re fueled by gasoline or propane, and are powerful enough to keep a few appliances and some lights running. Most big-box stores sell portable generators with prices starting at $299. Try the generator-buying guide from “Consumer Reports” for product reviews.

https://www.houselogic.com/finances-taxes/home-insurance/extreme-weather-climate-change/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Protect Your Home from Severe Weather

8/7/2019 (Permalink)

Consider Steel Doors
After you’ve made shutters for all your windows, start working on your doors. If you live in an area that frequently gets heavy storms, consider installing steel entry doors. High winds can easily tear through double doors, French doors and sliding patio doors that have no structural support between the two sides.

You may need to purchase and install special hardware to more adequately secure the doors where they meet. Try bolts that fasten the door into the framing at the top and the bottom.

Remember your roof

A roof in good condition can shield your home's interior from the storm outside. So roof work is another essential step in preparing your house to withstand a severe storm. Apply sealing around your home’s chimney or vent pipes. This will help prevent water from seeping into your home. Hire a contractor to check the structural integrity of the roof system.

Clean out clogged gutters and downspouts. If the rain that accompanies a heavy storm can’t run through the gutters and downspouts, it will spill over the sides, landing in areas where it can soak through to your home’s foundation, causing flooding and structural damage.

https://www.nahb.org/consumers/homeownership/homeownership-articles/protect-your-home-from-severe-weather.aspx

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

How to prevent storm damage to your home:

8/7/2019 (Permalink)

Check your yard for dead or diseased trees.

This is a big one for preventing storm maintenance. You may want to call in a trustworthy tree expert to check your yard for dangerous trees.

How can a tree be dangerous?

Well, if the tree is dead, hollowed, or diseased, it may not be able to stand up to the strong winds and rains of a summer storm. Meaning that you may end up with a tree crashing into your house…which is not good. Fortunately, home insurance typically covers falling trees, but it’s best just to get the unsafe trees removed so they don’t put anyone in danger. Or smash your home.

Secure furniture that could fall.

If you’ve got heavy, tall furniture that could fall, such as bookshelves or cabinets, make sure to anchor them to the wall so they’re secure and won’t fall. Also, move furniture away from the doors or windows.

Have your roof inspected every year.

It’s important to have your roof inspected and maintained each year. This will help you catch any issues and correct them before they get too serious. It’s best to fortify and strengthen your roof so it’s ready to take the walloping of a summer storm. Roof maintenance can even help you save money on your home insurance rates.

https://insurancehub.com/prevent-storm-damage/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

MOLD PREVENTION TIPS

8/7/2019 (Permalink)

Stay vigilant. If you aren't aware of any toxic mold in your home, keep an occasional eye out for it. "A lot of keeping mold away comes down to maintenance," Schoenberg says. "Anywhere you may have dampness, there can be mold. So look in dark and damp places. And it isn't always in obvious places. Like your washing machine, the tray where you put your soap, open that up and let that dry out." Caulk around the water fixtures. That is, your kitchen and bathroom sink, or any sinks or showers in any rooms. "Leaks in and around showers, sinks and bathtubs are source of mold,"
• Clean out the gutters. Well, at least you were going to get around to this sometime, anyway, right? Not only will you prevent things like flooding, it'll reduce your chance of mold. "Standing water in your gutters due to clogs can lead to water leaking into the eaves, and thus in exterior walls," Bodrozic says.
• Caulk around your windows. On the outside, Bodrozic says. You don't want any leaking after a big rain.
• Take care of any roof leaks. You'll notice if your roof is leaking into your bedroom, of course, but do you have an attic? Or a crawl space over your ceiling? "These leaks can go unnoticed for years, causing mold growth," he says.
• Do you have a crawl space under the home? If you do, check under it, to make sure there's no water accumulating and standing there, Bodrozic says. Sure, it'll be gross, but water can lead to mold and structural problems, Bodrozic warns.

https://loans.usnews.com/what-to-do-if-your-house-has-mold-or-you-think-it-does

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

MOLD PREVENTION

8/7/2019 (Permalink)

Places that are often or always damp can be hard to maintain completely free of mold. If there’s some mold in the shower or elsewhere in the bathroom that seems to reappear, increasing the ventilation (running a fan or opening a window) and cleaning more frequently will usually prevent mold from recurring, or at least keep the mold to a minimum.

Fix plumbing leaks and other water problems as soon as possible. Dry all items completely. ¦ Scrub mold off hard surfaces with detergent and water, and dry completely. Absorbent or porous materials, such as ceiling tiles and carpet, may have to be thrown away if they become moldy. Mold can grow on or fill in the empty spaces and crevices of porous materials, so the mold may be difficult or impossible to remove completely. Do not paint or caulk moldy surfaces. Clean up the mold and dry the surfaces before painting. Paint applied over moldy surfaces is likely to peel.

https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2016-10/documents/moldguide12.pdf

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Staying safe after a storm

8/6/2019 (Permalink)

Dealing with wind or water damage to your home caused by hurricanes, tornadoes, or other severe storms can be both difficult and dangerous. Here are some tips on how keep your family safe and begin to get your life back together after a storm hits.

Staying Safe After a Storm

Listen to the radio for advisories and other instructions.
Do not venture outside until it has been declared safe to do so.
Stay away from downed power lines and avoid standing water or metal objects near downed wires.
Leave and do not enter buildings that have sustained structural damage.
Stay away from damaged trees and dangling or broken limbs.
Do not swim or wade in flood waters.
Check on neighbors, especially those who are elderly or disabled.
Watch out for snakes or other wild animals.
Turn the gas off at the meter if you smell gas.
Do not drive unless absolutely necessary.
If you must drive, watch for undermined roads and damaged bridges.
Do not attempt to drive through flooded streets or bridges.
Avoid using candles or other open flames indoors.
Keep a fire extinguisher handy at all times.
Test battery powered smoke and CO alarms.
Make sure your sewer system is working before flushing toilets.
Keep pets indoors and use a leash when taking them outside.
Operate generators outdoors in the open away from windows and doors.
Don’t eat perishable food that has warmed to over 40° F.

https://www.todayshomeowner.com/dealing-with-storm-damage-to-your-home/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Protection and prevention

8/6/2019 (Permalink)

Despite the inconclusive nature of current research, the CDC and EPA recommend that any mold growth should be dealt with promptly.

Both organizations state that controlling moisture is most crucial to preventing mold from growing indoors. Acting quickly in the event of a leak or spillage is important, and drying areas within 48 hours of exposure to excess moisture should ensure that mold will not grow.

The level of humidity within the home is another important factor. Although it may not be immediately apparent, a high level of moisture in the air will promote mold growth. Condensation on windows is often a sign that humidity is high within a room.

Increasing ventilation by opening windows or using an extractor fan reduces the level of moisture in the air. Humidity can also be reduced in specific rooms by avoiding moisture-producing activities in them, such as drying clothes or using kerosene heaters.

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/288651.php

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Protection and prevention

8/6/2019 (Permalink)

When cleaning mold from hard surfaces, commercial products, soap and water or a heavily-diluted bleach solution can be used. Always dry surfaces that have been cleaned thoroughly to prevent mold from growing back.

Be wary of porous materials that have been affected by molds, such as fabric or wood. Mold can infiltrate these materials, may be impossible to remove completely and could potentially grow back if the conditions are right. In many cases, it may be best to get rid of items such as these that have been affected for a long period.

Patches of mold that are larger than 3 ft by 3 ft may be best tackled by professional mold cleaning experts.

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/288651.php

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of you rrestoration needs

After a storm

8/6/2019 (Permalink)

What should I do after my house has been damaged by a storm?

Federal Assistance

The Federal Emergency Management Agency provides a variety of assistance to victims of storm damage. You can get help with temporary housing, with repairs, with meals for your family and with filing insurance claims. Contact the FEMA branch in your area. If the storm damaged many homes in your area, a FEMA representative may be traveling through your neighborhood or available at a local temporary FEMA office. So talk to your local representative for assistance.

Documenting Damage

You'll need to document the damage that has been done by the storm as soon as possible, particularly if your homeowner's insurance only covers certain types of damage. Take photos of the damage, and be sure to document any potential problems, such as mold, crumbling drywall or exposed power lines. It's a good idea to have pictures on file of the normal state of your house. So if you're concerned about a storm that hasn't hit yet, take photos both before and after the storm.

https://homeguides.sfgate.com/should-after-house-damaged-storm-58794.html

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Gradual Damage & Insurance

8/5/2019 (Permalink)

When does an Insurance company cover Gradual Damage?

This is where things get tricky. You can figure out what an insurance company will and will not cover based on the policy wording. Your insurance advisor, agent or broker is the best person to review the exact details of your wording with you. You will have to review the exclusions of your policy as well as the type of coverage you have.

Water Damage Exclusions on Home Insurance

All insurance policies exclude wear and tear, and gradual damage, however, there may be some "exceptions".

Examples of Mold Related Water Damage/ Gradual Damage Claim

Mold: Some companies may allow you to purchase coverage for mold remediation. This varies from state to state and by insurance company. In some states like California and Texas, policy makers are pushing to have limited basic mold coverage added to the policies. However, the best way to find out if your policy provides any provision is to inquire with your representative or licensed insurance professional to find out if this could be available to you. It may be available by endorsement; every company is different.

https://www.thebalance.com/how-to-handle-water-damage-claims-3860314

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your mitigation needs.

water damage insurance

8/5/2019 (Permalink)

Understanding why a water damage claim is denied and what you can do about it

First, if you are being denied any claim, make sure that you ask for a full explanation. You have every right to understand exactly what part of the policy wording excludes what you are asking for compensation for and why the claim is being denied.

Understand that there are several people who represent the insurance company during a claim, so you want to know where the decision is coming from. Was it your agent who told you, the insurance adjuster, or a contractor? Each person plays a different role. Don't be afraid to request clarifications to avoid misunderstandings. When a claim is denied, you will normally receive something in writing advising you of the official decision.

If you still do not understand why something isn't covered, and you think there is a chance for a review of your situation, don't be afraid to ask your agent or representative for a review or a second opinion. In a stressful situation like a claim, it is understandable that things may not be expressed clearly on either side. You want to make sure you understand fully.

https://www.thebalance.com/how-to-handle-water-damage-claims-3860314

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your mitigation needs.

After water damage, check for mold

8/5/2019 (Permalink)

Inspect for Serious Issues like Mold

Inspect damaged materials for mold and mildew Mold can start to grow in the right conditions in as little as 24 hours. For long-term issues, like mold caused by attic condensation, the mold may have started growing a long time ago. And if you find mold and mildew issues, you need to be very careful. Some mold is toxic to humans, and all mold is very damaging to the materials it infests. For small mold issues, cut out the material, bag it, and throw it away immediately. For serious mold issues, get out of the area, shut down any airflow (to avoid spore contamination) and call a professional. And keep in mind that mold can show up in hidden areas like inside walls or under floors, so this inspection and water damage repair will be ongoing.

https://www.familyhandyman.com/plumbing/12-tips-for-water-damage-repair/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your mitigation needs.

Mold

8/5/2019 (Permalink)

For many people, January is a cold and damp month. During the winter, activities at home can lead to increased humidity and moisture indoors and, unfortunately, this can lead to the growth of mold.

Walls, clothes, books, toys and even CDs - nothing is sacred when it comes to mold growth. Its seemingly insidious growth can turn prized possessions into musty, moist sadness that only look fit for the garbage.

But for all its corrupting menace, to what extent should we be worried about mold when it invades our homes? If these are the effects that it can have on our possessions, what effects can it have on our bodies? In this spotlight feature, we take a look at precisely what mold is, what causes it to grow, whether it is bad for our health and, if so, what can be done to stop it.

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/288651.php

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

How fast can water damage ruin a home?

8/2/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage within minutes

Water contamination spreads, rapidly increasing claim costs.
Moisture-sensitive furniture finishes begin to turn white.
Furniture standing on saturated carpets will begin to leach and stain the carpeting.

Water damage within hours

Furniture in direct contact with water begins to delaminate and swell.
Normal household odors, amplified by humidity, become glaringly apparent.
Dyes from non-colorfast fabrics begin to bleed.

Water damage within days

Fungi appear, along with their characteristic musty odors.
Severe warping and cupping of wood becomes apparent. Wood floors may become unsalvageable.
Paint blisters, and wallpaper adhesives release and start to peel away.
Wood structural members begin to swell, warp and split apart.

https://www.angieslist.com/articles/how-fast-can-water-damage-ruin-home.htm

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Water damage & Insurance

8/2/2019 (Permalink)

Common questions: What water damage is covered by Home Insurance?

There are some common questions people ask about what their home, condo or renter insurance covers, for water damage, here are a few of the most common questions:

Is a water leak covered by home insurance?
Is a leaking toilet covered by insurance?
Is water damage from a leaking roof covered by insurance?

The answer to whether these are covered or not depend on the source of the damage, the type of policy you have and if the water damage is accidental and sudden or gradual.

Gradual damage water damage is not usually covered, so although your policy might have water damage coverages, if the reason for the damage is not sudden and accidental, then you may be denied in a claim.

https://www.thebalance.com/how-to-handle-water-damage-claims-3860314

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Kitchen fires

8/1/2019 (Permalink)

Cooking brings family and friends together, provides an outlet for creativity and can be relaxing. But did you know that cooking fires are the number one cause of home fires and home injuries? By following a few safety tips, you can prevent these fires.

“Cook with Caution” • Be on alert! If you are sleepy or have consumed alcohol don’t use the stove or stovetop. • Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, boiling, grilling, or broiling food. If you leave the kitchen for even a short period of time, turn off the stove. • If you are simmering, baking, or roasting food, check it regularly, remain in the home while food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you that you are cooking. • Keep anything that can catch fire — oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels or curtains — away from your stovetop. If you have a small (grease) cooking fire and decide to fight the fire... • On the stovetop, smother the flames by sliding a lid over the pan and turning off the burner. Leave the pan covered until it is completely cooled. • For an oven fire, turn off the heat and keep the door closed. If you have any doubt about fighting a small fire… • Just get out! When you leave, close the door behind you to help contain the fire. • Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number from outside the home.

https://www.nfpa.org/-/media/Files/Public-Education/Resources/Safety-tip-sheets/CookingSafety.ashx?la=en

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Plan ahead

8/1/2019 (Permalink)

Plan Ahead! If a fire breaks out in your home, you may have only a few minutes to get out safely once the smoke alarm sounds. Everyone needs to know what to do and where to go if there is a fire.

Safety Tips:

Make a home escape plan. Draw a map of your home showing all doors and windows. Discuss the plan with everyone in your home.
Know at least two ways out of every room, if possible. Make sure all doors and windows leading outside open easily.
Have an outside meeting place (like a tree, light pole or mailbox) a safe distance from the home where everyone should meet.
Practice your home fire drill at night and during the day with everyone in your home, twice a year.
Practice using different ways out.
Teach children how to escape on their own in case you can’t help them.
Close doors behind you as you leave.

IF THE ALARM SOUNDS:

If the smoke alarm sounds, get out and stay out. Never go back inside for people or pets.
If you have to escape through smoke, get low and go under the smoke to your way out.
Call the fire department from outside your home

https://www.nfpa.org/-/media/Files/Public-Education/Resources/Safety-tip-sheets/EscapePlanningTips.ashx?la=en

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your mitigation needs.

How to prevent home fires

8/1/2019 (Permalink)

Home fires are not 100 percent preventable. Though, you can take necessary steps today to reduce your risk of home fires. Here’s how:

Install and maintain smoke alarms on every floor of your home and within every bedroom. Roughly 50% of home fire deaths occur during the night while people are sleeping.
Never leave food cooking unattended, especially deep fryers and other frying equipment.
Avoid using portable and fixed space heaters, as heating equipment is the second leading cause of home fire deaths.
Have a fire plan that gets you out of your home in less than two minutes and practice it.
Avoid smoking in the house.

https://www.safety.com/fire-safety/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

How to use a fire extinguisher

8/1/2019 (Permalink)

Pull the pin. Hold the fire extinguisher with the nozzle pointing away from you and remove the pin to unlock it.
Aim low. Point the nozzle at the base of the fire.
Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly.
Sweep the nozzle from side-to-side.

Fire extinguishers should be checked regularly and tested by a professional every few years.

It’s also useful to know that there are five different types of fire extinguishers for putting out different kinds of fires.

Class A extinguishers: for use on materials like cloth, wood, and paper.
Class B extinguishers: for use on combustible and flammable liquids like oil, gasoline, and grease.
Class C extinguishers: best for electrical equipment and appliances like stoves, televisions, and computers.
Class D extinguishers: for use with flammable metals.
Class K extinguishers: best for cooking oils commonly found in commercial kitchens, including vegetable oil.

Most dwellings have a multipurpose extinguisher that covers Classes A, B, and C. You can purchase these types of fire extinguishers at any home improvement store.

https://www.safety.com/fire-safety/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Prevent Home Fires

8/1/2019 (Permalink)

Home fires are preventable! The following are simple steps that each of us can take to prevent a tragedy.

Cooking:

Stay in the kitchen when you are frying, grilling, or broiling food. If you leave the kitchen for even a short period of time, turn off the stove.
Wear short, close-fitting or tightly rolled sleeves when cooking.
Keep children away from cooking areas by enforcing a "kid-free zone" of 3 feet around the stove.
Position barbecue grills at least 10 feet away from siding and deck railings, and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.

Smoking

Smoke outside and completely stub out butts in an ashtray or a can filled with sand.
Soak cigarette butts and ashes in water before throwing them away. Never toss hot cigarette butts or ashes in the trash can.
Never smoke in a home where oxygen is used, even if it is turned off. Oxygen can be explosive and makes fire burn hotter and faster.
Be alert - don’t smoke in bed! If you are sleepy, have been drinking, or have taken medicine that makes you drowsy, put your cigarette out first.

https://www.ready.gov/home-fires

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Unexpected dangers of a leaky roof

7/18/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage is serious business. Be on the lookout for roofing leaks before they ruin your home and safety.

There are many different household problems that can be procrastinated. However, a roof leak repair should take the highest priority on your list of home maintenance issues. Roofing leaks can develop for a variety of reasons: improper roof installation, wind or storm damage, and lack of maintenance. Keep in mind that most roofs are only meant to last 20 to 30 years so it could simply be time to replace your roof. So why is even a small roof leak so critical for your entire household? Most homeowners think a leaky roof is just a structural problem, but it can actually pose many more safety and even health risks. Constant water intrusion will eventually work down from the attic area to the very foundation of the house, causing plenty of costly damage on the way.

https://www.angieslist.com/articles/7-unexpected-dangers-leaky-roof.htm

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your mitigation needs.

How does storm damage affect my home over time?

7/8/2019 (Permalink)

Worn down weather stripping

Brand new replacement windows can have strong, leakproof seals and weather stripping that protect your home from moisture, wind, and drafts. As the years pass, however, storms and daily wear (including ultraviolet rays) can break down seals, make your glass more brittle, and damaged weather stripping. Hire a professional to inspect your windows, especially if you notice leaks or temperature problems during a storm. It might be time for repairs or window replacement.

Lost curb appeal and home value

If you don’t keep up with home maintenance before and after storms, you could risk siding stains, dented gutters, lost shingles, broken windows, and many other things that lower the aesthetic value and curb appeal of your home. Aside from keeping your home safe, invest in maintenance and timely repairs to maintain the appearance of your home. Make storm damage prevention and repair easy.

https://www.mrroof.com/blog/storm-damage-affect-home-time/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Home fires

7/8/2019 (Permalink)

Before a fire

Smoke Alarms

A working smoke alarm significantly increases your chances of surviving a deadly home fire.

Install both ionization AND photoelectric smoke alarms, OR dual sensor smoke alarms, which contain both ionization and photoelectric smoke sensors.
Test batteries monthly
Replace batteries in battery-powered and hard-wired smoke alarms at least once a year (except non replaceable 10-year lithium batteries).
Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, including the basement, both inside and outside of sleeping areas.
Replace the entire smoke alarm unit every 8-10 years or according to manufacturer’s instructions.
Never disable a smoke alarm while cooking-it can be a deadly mistake.

Smoke alarm safety for people with access or functional needs

Audible alarms for visually impaired people
Smoke alarms with a vibrating pad or flashing light are available for the hearing impaired.
Smoke alarms with a strobe light outside the home to catch the attention of neighbors, and emergency call systems for summoning help., are also available.

https://www.ready.gov/home-fires

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

After a fire

7/8/2019 (Permalink)

The following checklist serves as a quick reference and guide for you to follow after a fire strikes.

Contact your local disaster relief service, such as The Red Cross, if you need temporary housing, food and medicines.
If you are insured, contact your insurance company for detailed instructions on protecting the property, conducting inventory and contacting fire damage restoration companies. If you are not insured, try contacting private organizations for aid and assistance.
Check with the fire department to make sure your residence is safe to enter. Be watchful of any structural damage caused by the fire.
The fire department should see that utilities are either safe to use or are disconnected before they leave the site. DO NOT attempt to reconnect utilities yourself.
Conduct an inventory of damaged property and items. Do not throw away any damaged goods until after an inventory is made.
Try to locate valuable documents and records. Refer to information on contacts and the replacement process inside this brochure.
Begin saving receipts for any money you spend related to fire loss. The receipts may be needed later by the insurance company and for verifying losses claimed on income tax.
Notify your mortgage company of the fire.

https://www.ready.gov/home-fires

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Water damage is stressful, so is dealing with your insurance

7/5/2019 (Permalink)

When a pipe bursts, a drain backs up, or a flood occurs in your home, it can be hard to see past the mess. A million questions will run through your mind.

What do I do now?

What’s going to happen?

Is my stuff ruined?

And the most important question of all: Will my homeowner’s insurance cover the damage?

There’s no doubt about it. Water damage is extremely stressful, and the more you know about it, the better you’ll be able to decide how to address it. Here are five things that every homeowner needs to know about water damage.

There are different insurance policies for flood damage and water damage.
Not all water damage is covered by your insurance.
Once water damage has happened, the clock is ticking before it gets worse.
Your insurance company needs to know right away.
The pollution level of the water is important:

Category 1:Water from a clean water source, like a fresh water line for a dishwasher.

Category 2: Water that may have bacteria in it.

Category 3: Water that is highly contaminated.

https://porch.com/advice/5-things-you-need-to-know-about-water-damage

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

when it comes to a storm

7/2/2019 (Permalink)

When it comes to storm damage, basic upkeep goes a long way

Replacing missing or damaged shingles: if a shingle is damaged, it’s more likely to break free. If it’s missing, well then, you’ve got a gap for wind to get under and do even more damage
Repair loose siding: he same rules as roofing apply to siding: it’s important to ensure your siding isn’t damaged
Ensure water can flow away from your home: The grade of your lot should keep water flowing away from your home and into a ditch, drain, or some other proper retention area.
Keep your gutters clear: Make sure your gutters are free-flowing and your downspouts flow away from your foundation.
Keep your sump pump in working order: Before Spring rains start up, we suggest checking whether your sump pump is in working order. If you want to feel extra-secure, having a backup sump pump is a sure-fire way to prevent basement flooding.

https://www.reinbrechthomes.com/10-steps-to-protect-your-home-from-storm-damage/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

How to prevent a house fire

7/2/2019 (Permalink)

How to prevent a house fire

Fire prevention is more important than many realize and these general fire prevention practices help to keep your home safe:

Clear your home’s surroundings of debris and combustible materials.
Maintain your lawn and keep bushes and trees trimmed.
Use fire-resistant materials when building or updating your home.
Make sure your home has a fully functioning fire alarm system.
Keep a shovel and fire extinguisher in an easily accessible place.
Practice appropriate fire safety measures with campfires.
Prepare a fire safety plan.

Many people think about the safety and security of their family, but they often overlook the dangers posed by fires. Fire safety can make all the difference in fire-prone areas and can help to prevent wildfires from spreading in dry, hot locations. Rather than letting a normal fire get out of hand, keep it contained by arming your home with the appropriate fire protections.

https://www.protectyourhome.com/blog/fire-detection-and-safety/how-to-prevent-a-house-fire

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

10 Things you need to do to keep rainwater out

7/1/2019 (Permalink)

10 things you need to do to keep rainwater out of your home

Increase grade: The earth around the home should be sloped away from the house to divert water away. Very simply, borrow earth from three feet away from the structure, and toss it against the side of the house thus creating the slope.
Clean rain gutters: A clogged rain gutter can send water cascading down the exterior wall, which can result in water entering the interior walls.
Divert down spouts: This device carries water away from the house, preventing it from seeping down into the foundation.
Roof maintenance: Where rain is concerned, the roof is the first line of defense.
Window repairs: Proper window installation and maintenance is imperative
Sweep away debris: Especially during spring and fall seasons, when the area’s great trees emit pollen in tumble weed fashion and drop their leaves in mass
Expand exterior drains: Expanding the surface area of exterior drain decreases the likelihood of clogging the drain.
Construct a swale ditch: Constructing a ditch and filling with landscaping rock can help divert water away from the house, especially for yards that are extraordinarily flat.
Exterior French drain: To the contrary, for homes situated on slopes, an exterior French drain, including a subterranean ditch with a black perforated corrugated hose, can be used to divert surface water away from the house
Install a sump pump: When all else fails, installing a sump pump may be the solution.

https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/where-we-live/wp/2015/07/27/10-things-you-need-to-do-to-keep-rainwater-out-of-your-home/?noredirect=on&utm_term=.b6fb4cf428fd

SERVPRO of North Arlington for all of your restoration needs!

How to avoid Commercial fires

6/21/2019 (Permalink)

Commercial building fires put all types of businesses at risk, from manufacturing plants to offices. Statistics gathered by the U.S. Fire Administration estimates that 96,800 non-residential fires occurred over nine years, resulting in 145 deaths, 1,550 injuries and over $2 billion in damages.

Many commercial building fires could have either been avoided or had minimal damage through the installation of an improved fire safety system. An effective fire safety and prevention system for commercial buildings incorporates three main elements: detection, control and extinguishing.

Commercial buildings should have smoke and fire alarms throughout the building. These alarms are all too often forgotten about as an important part of routine maintenance. Fire alarms are not only necessary to be code compliant, but they also help to save lives. Additional equipment, like fire and smoke curtains, should also be installed for maximum protection of both inhabitants and products.

In order to reduce the chances of a fire happening in your building, it's important to understand which factors play a role as well as what containment equipment is most suitable.

https://smokeguard.com/blog/2019/february/06/how-to-avoid-the-top-5-causes-of-commercial-building-fires

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs!

Home Fire Preparedness

6/20/2019 (Permalink)

The 7 Ways to Prepare for a Home Fire

Install the right number of smoke alarms. Test them once a month and replace the batteries at least once a year. Purchase smoke alarms here.

Teach children what smoke alarms sound like and what to do when they hear one.

Ensure that all household members know two ways to escape from every room of your home and know the family meeting spot outside of your home.

Establish a family emergency communications plan and ensure that all household members know who to contact if they cannot find one another.

Practice escaping from your home at least twice a year. Press the smoke alarm test button or yell “Fire“ to alert everyone that they must get out.

Make sure everyone knows how to call 9-1-1.

Teach household members to STOP, DROP and ROLL if their clothes should catch on fire.

https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/fire/home-fire-preparedness.html

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here 24/7 365 for all of your restoration needs!

Tornado information

5/14/2019 (Permalink)

April, May and June are the peak months for tornadoes in the United States.
Intense tornadoes are more likely to occur during the spring.
Many of the worst tornado outbreaks have struck in April or May.

April kicks off what is typically the most active and dangerous three-month period of the year for tornadoes in the United States.

Strong tornadoes can occur in any month, as we saw in early March when 23 people were killed by an EF4 twister in Lee County, Alabama. But weather history shows April, May and June are the months with the most potential of having both the greatest number of tornadoes and the most intense tornadoes in a given year.

https://weather.com/storms/tornado/news/2018-03-27-april-may-june-tornadoes-peak-months

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here 24/7, 365 for all of your restoration needs.

We made the paper!

5/6/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of North Arlington goes to Oklahoma

SERVPRO of North Arlington made the paper! No matter where you are SERVPRO of North Arlington is ready to hep make you feel “Like it never even happened.” We were called out to Oklahoma for a commercial fire, when we received the call, we immediately loaded our trucks and headed out. We are faster to any size disaster. Our customers can rest well knowing that our technicians are highly trained and certified to handle their fire damage 24 hours a day 7 days a week. SERVPRO of North Arlington knows that every hour spent restoring your business is an hour of lost revenue, we want to get you back to pre-fire conditions as quickly as possible. SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Maintain and understand your indoor plumbing systems

5/1/2019 (Permalink)

Inspect appliance hoses and faucets. Make it a practice every year to check hoses leading to water heaters, dishwashers, washing machines and refrigerator ice makers. You may also want to invest in a water leak monitoring and shut-off system that can alert you to any leakage issues. Immediately replace any hoses that have cracks or leaks, and replace them all every five to seven years.

Inspect showers and tubs.Check the seal and caulking around showers and tubs to make sure they are watertight and reseal if necessary.
When away on vacation, shut off the water supply to the washing machine and never leave the house while the washer or dishwasher is running.
Know the location of the main water shut-off valve in your home. A damaged hose or a burst pipe can send water racing into your home. Being able to locate and shut off the main water supply quickly will save stress, money and time.
Install an emergency pressure release valve in your plumbing system. This will protect against the increased pressure caused by freezing pipes and can help prevent your pipes from bursting.
Check plumbing and heating pipes. Look closely for cracks and leaks and have any necessary repairs made immediately.

https://www.iii.org/article/how-protect-your-home-water-damage

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs

Repair and protect your home's exterior

5/1/2019 (Permalink)

Caulk and seal windows to guard against water seepage.

Inspect your roof for missing, damaged and aging shingles and make necessary repairs.
Check your downspouts. Remove debris that may have accumulated in downspouts and rain gutters. Position downspouts so that they direct water away from the house.
Check sprinklers and irrigation systems to be sure they are not creating water damage to the walls and foundations of the house. Turn off and drain outside faucets to protect against frozen pipes.
Install gutter guards to prevent gutter clogs and keep water flowing away from the house instead of accumulating on the roof.

https://www.iii.org/article/how-protect-your-home-water-damage

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs

Tornado warnings in DFW

5/1/2019 (Permalink)

Storms are already firing up to the northwest of Fort Worth and severe weather will likely reach the Dallas-Fort Worth area later on Wednesday.

A tornado warning has already been issued for portions of Archer and Baylor counties, about 110 miles northwest of Fort Worth. About 125 miles northwest of Fort Worth, a tornado warning was also in effect for Throckmorton and Haskell counties.

A severe thunderstorm watch was also in effect for counties northwest of Fort Worth, including Wise, Palo Pinto and Jack counties until 8 p.m.

https://www.star-telegram.com/news/local/community/fort-worth/article229911089.html

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs

Administrative Professional Day!

4/24/2019 (Permalink)

Celebrate Administrative Professionals Day

Administrative Professionals Day and Administrative Professionals Week are widely observed in many workplaces in the United States and other countries around the world. Many employers and supervisors arrange events to show their appreciation of the work carried out by administrative professionals, to highlight their importance to the organization and to enhance their work-related skills.

https://www.timeanddate.com/holidays/us/administrative-professionals-day

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here 24 hours a day 7 days a week 365 days a year for all of you restoration needs. Let us make you feel "Like it never even happened."

Jesus is the Reason

4/19/2019 (Permalink)

Remember Jesus is the Reason

Many people in different countries celebrate the anniversary of Jesus Christ’s crucifixion, and death on the Friday before Easter Sunday. This is an observance that involves people fasting and praying. Many church services are held in the afternoon, usually around noon or midday to 3pm, to remember the hours when Jesus hung on the cross. Many churches also observe the day by re-enacting the procession of the cross as in the ritual of the Stations of the Cross, which depicts the final hours of Jesus’ life.

https://www.timeanddate.com/holidays/common/good-friday

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs

Avoid soggy disasters

4/10/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage is one of the most common and costliest disasters your home can experience, costing billions of dollars annually. Safeguard your most important asset against water damage with the right insurance coverage and the following practical advice.

Prevent basement water seepage

Reseal your basement. Water in the basement is often caused by cracks in building foundations or floor slabs. If you notice water seepage after heavy rain when you've never had a problem, it may mean that your once-waterproof cement floors and basement walls have deteriorated. Painting vulnerable areas with water sealant can prevent seepage.
Make sure water drains away from the building. Seepage is exacerbated by soil that has settled in a way to make water flow toward the building. After a storm, and especially if the ground is already saturated, rainwater that flows towards the building goes down the outside of the foundation wall potentially through any cracks.
Install a backwater valve. Though less common than other causes of basement water, sewer backups are messy. Learn more about your sewer responsibilitiesand install and maintain a backwater valve, which allows sewage to go out, but not come back in.

https://www.iii.org/article/how-protect-your-home-water-damage

SERVPRO of North Arlington for all of your restoration needs

Tornado season

4/2/2019 (Permalink)

It’s that time of year to start worrying about the spring storm season. And one private weather forecaster, AccuWeather, is predicting a higher frequency of severe storm risks in Tornado Alley, which will include parts of Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas and Nebraska.

The Dallas-Fort Worth area is often considered to be on the southern end of Tornado Alley, though one study has suggested it may be shifting eastward.

“We believe that the more traditional severe weather region of the central and southern Plains will have a higher potential for tornadoes and severe weather more frequently than they have experienced on average the past three years,” Paul Pastelok, AccuWeather’s Lead Long-Range Meteorologist, said in a news release.

https://www.star-telegram.com/news/local/community/fort-worth/article226799754.html

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs!

Water damage is stressful let SERVPRO take that stress away

4/1/2019 (Permalink)

https://wateruseitwisely.com/what-to-do-when-you-have-a-water-leak/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here 24/7 365 for all of your restoration needs.

Mold remediation

3/5/2019 (Permalink)

Mold infestations can be caused by minor water intrusions, like a slow roof leak or loose plumbing fitting. If you suspect your home or business has a mold problem, call SERVPRO of North Arlington, who will respond quickly and work fast to manage the situation.

Mold can spread quickly through your home or business if left untreated. SERVPRO of North Arlington can respond quickly, working to first contain the infestation to help prevent its spread to other parts of your home or business. Next, we will begin the remediation process, working safely and effectively to manage the situation. We have the training, experience, and equipment to contain the mold infestation and remediate it to preloss condition.

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here 24/7 365 for all of your restoration needs

Water Damage!

3/5/2019 (Permalink)

Nobody is prepared for a water damage in your home or business. Fortunately, SERVPRO of North Arlington is prepared and here 24/7 365. We’re faster to any size disaster, we can provide an immediate emergency response to help prevent secondary damage and mold. We’re highly trained water damage specialists with advanced training and expertise, not to mention the tremendous amount of hands on experience. We use advanced drying equipment and techniques. Our technicians extract standing water then dry out your property quickly and efficiently. We then finish our job with professional-grade cleaning, sanitizing, and deodorizing products for your comfort and safety. SERVPRO of North Arlington specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

SERVPRO of North Arlington is always ready to serve you in all of your restoration needs.

Storm Damage

3/5/2019 (Permalink)

Floods and storms don’t wait for normal business hours, and neither do we. You can depend on an immediate response from our highly trained technicians, who are available 24/7 365 days. As a leader in storm and water damage restoration, SERVPRO of North Arlington has the specialized training and expertise to restore your home back to its pre-storm condition. Our restoration process puts an emphasis on scientific drying techniques, progress monitoring and documentation. We Have the Resources to Handle Storms and Disasters

Major storms and flooding events can overwhelm many restoration companies. On the other hand, SERVPRO of North Arlington can access resources from 1,700 Franchises across the state and country and even utilize Disaster Recovery Teams for major storms and disasters. SERVPRO of North Arlington is locally owned and operated, so we are part of this community too. When you have a flooding or storm emergency, we’re already nearby and ready to help. We take pride in being a part of the North Arlington community and want to do our part in making it the best it can be.

We are proud to serve our local communities!

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Cleaning services

3/5/2019 (Permalink)

You don’t have time to worry about the common wear and tear that gradually soils your office. When grime, odor, and moisture challenges go beyond the scope of your regular janitorial staff, you should call SERVPRO of North Arlington for prompt service. Whether it’s removing an odor problem or deep cleaning flooring or carpets, you can rely on us to make your workspace look its very best. SERVPRO of North Arlington offer cleaning services ranging from cleaning restaurant hoods to removing biohazard contaminants. We have the specialized training and products to get your property back to business. Our cleaning services include the following:

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here 24/7 365 days, waiting to serve you with all of your restoration needs.

Fire damage

3/5/2019 (Permalink)

In addition to fire, smoke, and soot damage, your North Arlington home may also suffer from water damage as a result of the firefighting efforts. This type of damage can be especially upsetting and destructive for your family to process. You may feel stressed, confused, and vulnerable, so you’ll need a caring expert to guide you through this crisis. We’ll treat you with respect and empathy, and we’ll always treat your home and belongings with care.

SERVPRO of North Arlington specializes in fire and water damage restoration. We have the specific damage restoration training, personnel, and equipment and can quickly restore your home to pre-fire condition. When fire and water damage strikes, a fast response is critical. We’re dedicated to responding immediately, day or night, to your North Arlington home or business. A faster response helps to prevent secondary damage and to reduce cost.

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs

Commercial properties

3/5/2019 (Permalink)

Your commercial property’s appearance speaks volumes to your clients. So when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services, SERVPRO of North Arlington has the training and expertise to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

Small Office Buildings
Large Office/High-Rise Office Buildings
Apartment Buildings
Restaurants
Hotel/Motels
Small Retail Stores
Large Retail/Big-Box Stores
High-Rise Residential
Manufacturing & Industrial
Government/Military

SERVPRO of North Arlington is available 24 hours a day to restore your North Arlington property and get you back to business. We have the expertise, equipment, and highly trained personnel to handle your commercial water, fire, or mold damage. We can also access the resources of our national network of 1,700 Franchises to handle large commercial projects and major storm events. Learn more about our commercial restoration services:

SERVPRO of North Arlington for all of your restoration needs

Oven, Microwave, and Electrical Fires

2/21/2019 (Permalink)

Oven, Microwave, and Electrical Fires

Fires can happen anywhere in the kitchen — near an electrical outlet, in the microwave, or in the stove. Here are some tips to help you know what to do in case of any of these kitchen fires:

Oven fires. Immediately close the oven door and turn it off. If the fire doesn’t go out right away, call the fire department. Have the oven inspected and repaired before you use it again.
Microwave fires. Close the microwave door and keep it closed. Turn the microwave off and unplug it if you can do so safely. Leave it closed and don't use it again until you can have the appliance checked out by a technician.
Electrical fires. Prevent electrical fires by not overloading your electrical outlets with appliances. If a fire starts, use a fire extinguisher; never douse it with water. Always call the fire department for an electrical fire, even if you have already put it out with the fire extinguisher.

https://www.everydayhealth.com/healthy-home/general-safety/tips/how-and-when-to-fight-cooking-fires.aspx

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here 24/7 365, for all of you restoration needs

What to Do If Your House Has Mold (Or You Think It Does)

1/21/2019 (Permalink)

What to Do If Your House Has Mold (Or You Think It Does)

Mold. The very word can put terror into the eyes of a homeowner.

So if you think you have mold, and plenty houses do – a 2003 University of Arizona study found that 100 percent of homes have mold (albeit not necessarily the dangerous kind) – what should you do?

Test for mold. That's probably the last thing you or any homeowner wants to hear because mold testing can be expensive, and there are plenty of horror stories out there.

If you do have mold. Don't panic yet. This may not be a major problem. As noted, all homes have some mold.

Stay vigilant. If you aren't aware of any toxic mold in your home, keep an occasional eye out for it. "A lot of keeping mold away comes down to maintenance," Schoenberg says. "Anywhere you may have dampness, there can be mold. So look in dark and damp places. And it isn't always in obvious places.

https://loans.usnews.com/what-to-do-if-your-house-has-mold-or-you-think-it-does

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

Bio hazard Cleanup

1/10/2019 (Permalink)

The death of a loved one is a devastating event for family and friends. When a person dies in the home or at a business, the cleanup afterward can prove too traumatic for family to perform. Outdoor scenes of death are often cleaned by a fire department, but if someone has died inside a building cleanup needs can be extensive. Odor, blood spills and tissue remains may need to be removed. Specific procedures should be followed to ensure permanent remediation, allowing dignified closure of a painful chapter.

Warnings

Always confirm professional cleanup services are certified or licensed in accordance with your state regulations for death-related cleanup projects.
Instructions included in this article are intended as general guidelines and do not constitute training or certification in biohazard cleanup or removal.

Always wear OSHA-compliant protective gear when cleaning up biohazardous materials, including blood, brain matter, feces, vomit, and decomposition seepage.

https://pocketsense.com/how-to-clean-up-after-a-death-12492269.html

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here 24/7 365 for all of your restoration needs

9 Facts about Fire

12/19/2018 (Permalink)

1. Understand the fire triangle
A simplified cousin to the fire tetrahedron, the triangle represents the three components that fires need to exist: heat, oxygen and fuel. If one of these components is missing, a fire can’t ignite.

Heat can be generated by a cigarette, an electrical current or a home heater. Fuel can be anything combustible, such as wood, paper, clothing, furniture, gases or chemicals.

Once a fire starts, if any of the three components is removed, the fire is extinguished. Water is used to cool a fire and take away the heat source. Oxygen can be removed by smothering a fire with dirt, sand, a chemical agent or a blanket.

Fuel can be removed by moving combustible materials away from the fire or by simply waiting until the fire consumes the material and goes out of its own accord.

2. Fire kills
Every year more than 3,800 people die fire related deaths in the U.S. Approximately 18,300 people are injured every year in fires. Most of these fires could have been prevented by practicing proper fire safety and having fire alarms. On average more than 60 firefighters die every year in the line of duty.

3. It's in the kitchen
Most house fires start in the kitchen. Cooking is the leading cause of home fire injuries. Cooking fires often start from overheated grease and unattended cooking. Electric stoves are involved in more fires than gas stoves.

4. Leading causes of death
Another fact about fire is that smoking is the primary cause of death by fire in the U.S. The second cause of fire deaths is heating equipment.

5. Arson
Arson is the third most common cause of home fires. Arson in commercially operated buildings is the major reason for fire deaths and injuries in those types of properties.

6. Smoke inhalation
More people die from smoke inhalation than flames. Fire can suck all of the oxygen from a room and replace it with poisonous smoke and gases before flames even reach a room. Many times people die from lack of oxygen before the fire reaches their room.

7. Run report
According to NFPA, firefighters in the U.S. were called out on 501,500 structure fires in 2015. Between 2007 and 2011, there was an average of 2,570 civilian deaths and 13,210 civilian injuries per year, and a total estimated cost of $329 billion in 2011.

8. Candles
Candles caused approximately 9,300 home fires and 86 home fire deaths between 2009 and 2013.They were also responsible for 827 injuries and $374 million in property damage.

9. Smoke alarms
Approximately two-thirds of all fire deaths happen in homes where there’s no working fire alarm. Your chance of dying in a home fire is cut in half if you have a working smoke alarm.

https://www.firerescue1.com/fire-products/Firefighter-Accountability/articles/1206336-9-facts-about-fire/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs

Weather Summary

12/10/2018 (Permalink)

DECEMBER 2018 LONG RANGE WEATHER FORECAST FOR TEXAS-OKLAHOMA Dates Weather Conditions Dec 1-3 Sunny, cool Dec 4-11 Rain, then sunny, mild Dec 12-16 Rain, snow north, then sunny, mild Dec 17-20 Showers, cool Dec 21-23 Sunny, mild Dec 24-31 Rain to snow, then sunny, cold north, showers south December temperature 51° (2° below avg.)
precipitation 1.5" (1" below avg.)

JANUARY 2019 LONG RANGE WEATHER FORECAST FOR TEXAS-OKLAHOMA Dates Weather Conditions Jan 1-5 Snow showers north; rainy, mild south Jan 6-10 Sunny, turning warm Jan 11-16 Rainy periods, mild Jan 17-20 Sunny north, rainy south; mild Jan 21-26 Sunny, mild Jan 27-31 Rain, then sunny, cold January temperature 56° (6° above avg.)

precipitation 1.5" (0.5" below avg.)

ANNUAL WEATHER SUMMARY
NOVEMBER 2018 TO OCTOBER 2019

Winter will be milder and drier than normal, with below-normal snowfall. The coldest periods will be in late December, late January, and mid-February, with the best chances for snow in mid- and late December, early January, and mid-February. April and May will be warmer and slightly rainier than normal. Summer will be cooler and rainier than normal, with the hottest periods in mid-June and early and mid-July. Watch for a tropical storm threat in mid- to late August and a hurricane threat in early September. Otherwise, September and October will be slightly cooler and rainier than normal.

https://www.almanac.com/weather/longrange/zipcode/75052

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs

HURRICANE SEASON 2018: WHEN WILL IT END, BE OVER?

11/19/2018 (Permalink)

The hurricane season for 2018 may be coming to an end in November but that doesn’t mean more storms won’t form in the Atlantic or Pacific that can cause significant damage. The latest storm to wreak havoc on the United States, Hurricane Michael, was still making its way out of the country Thursday.

The storm made landfall near Mexico Beach, Florida, Wednesday and then continued north before crossing over Georgia and heading into the Carolinas and southeast Virginia. The storm was a Category 4 with wind speeds over 150 miles per hour and it caused significant and deadly damage after its arrival in Florida.

Hurricane season in the Atlantic started June 1 and has a few weeks left to go until it’s over. The season runs until November 30 and though storms can happen after the season is over the bulk of them usually happen within the June 1 to November 30 window. Thursday, in addition to Michael, there were Hurricane Leslie and Tropical Storm Nadine in the Atlantic.

In the Pacific, the hurricane season starts a bit earlier than in the Atlantic. The Eastern Pacific season begins May 15 and continues until November 30. Tropical Storm Sergio was brewing in the Pacific Thursday while those on the Atlantic coast were watching the remnants of Michael.

Every hurricane starts as a tropical cyclone and only becomes a hurricane when its maximum sustained wind speeds reach 74 miles per hour or higher. The cyclone first becomes a tropical depression with wind speeds of 38 miles per hour or higher and then a tropical storm when the wind speeds are between 39 and 73 miles per hour. All of these storms originate in tropical or subtropical waters

The Atlantic hurricane season peaks around the middle of September until the end of October. A chart from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration shows the frequency of hurricanes and tropical storms by month over a period of more than 100 years.

https://www.newsweek.com/hurricane-season-2018-end-when-1165716

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

What to Dispose of after a fire

11/14/2018 (Permalink)

Dispose of These Items After a Fire

There are some items that should always be tossed after a fire.

Perishable Food
- If the electricity has been off for more than four hours, even after a small fire, most refrigerated and frozen food should be tossed. If a freezer is full and undamaged, check for ice crystals and you may be able to salvage the food for up to eight hours.
Non-Perishable Food
- Any foods, even canned goods, that have been exposed to heat and firefighting chemicals should be tossed. The excessive heat can cause food to spoil even if the cans are not burned.
Cosmetics and Medicines
- Water, smoke, firefighting chemicals, and excessively high temperatures can ruin cosmetics and medicines. It is not worth risking your health to salvage these items.
Electrical Equipment
- No electrical items like small appliances or entertainment equipment should be used until they have been checked for water damage and heat damage to wiring. Toss any questionable items to avoid the possibility of another fire.

https://www.thespruce.com/cleanup-after-fire-4160200?utm_term=cleaning+up+after+a+fire&utm_content=p1-main-1-title&utm_medium=sem&utm_source=msn_s&utm_campaign=adid-473ea588-6bd2-429a-973d-d46bc26418e8-0-ab_msb_ocode-23793&ad=semD&an=msn_s&am=broad&q=cleaning+up+after+a+fire&o=23793&qsrc=999&l=sem&askid=473ea588-6bd2-429a-973d-d46bc26418e8-0-ab_msb SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs

Freezing temperatures are likely Tuesday and Wednesday

11/12/2018 (Permalink)

Taste of Winter Moves Into North Texas

North Texas will get a taste of winter weather over the next few days with rain, a strong north wind, falling temperatures and the likelihood of a freeze both Tuesday and Wednesday morning.

A cold front moved through North Texas Sunday night, opening the door for the cold Canadian air to move into the area.

UPDATEDFreeze Warning in Effect Monday Night

After a cold, wet and windy trip to work and school Monday morning, rain is expected to continue throughout the day. Allow for extra time on your commute.

The roads will NOT be slippery or icy as the temperature will be well above freezing. With widespread rain moving through Dallas-Fort Worth during the heart of the morning rush, the rain will have a impact all by itself.

The rain will begin tapering off after the noon hour. As the temperature falls into the mid-30s by Monday afternoon, some light flurries may mix in before all the precipitation comes to an end.

The strong north wind will continue. That will pull wind chill values down into the upper teens and lower 20s for Monday evening and Monday night. A FREEZE WARNING is in effect for Monday night/Tuesday morning. Most of North Texas will see air temperatures drop into the mid to upper 20s by sunrise Tuesday.

Dress in layers, be aware of the wind chill factor, remove any wet clothing as soon as possible and limit time outdoors. MedStar said don't ignore shivering. Persistent shivering is a signal to return indoors.

Sunshine returns by mid morning on Tuesday. But with that clear sky and the lighter wind Tuesday night, we will be even colder Wednesday morning. One bit of good news … with that hard freeze, that should take care of a large part of the mosquito population. The rest of the week will be sunny, but it will be slow to warm up.

https://www.nbcdfw.com/weather/stories/Taste-of-Winter-Moving-Into-North-Texas-500243751.html

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs

Tips for hiring bio-hazard pros

11/8/2018 (Permalink)

Tips for hiring bio-hazard pros

If you need to hire a bio-hazard remediation company, make sure to call one that follows proper procedure and has highly trained staff. Ensure they follow the United States Occupational Safety and Health Administration's (OSHA) guidelines for dealing with blood-borne pathogens, and ask if staff members are certified in Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response (HAZWOPER), also offered by OSHA.

Ask what kind of work they've done in the past, and how long they've been in business. When they come to do an estimate, ask specific questions about their plan for remediation, and don't be put off by technical language. A reputable pro should be able to explain what products are being used, cleaning procedures and how long it will take.

https://www.angieslist.com/articles/biohazard-remediation-when-make-call.htm

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3 cold fronts this week

11/7/2018 (Permalink)

3 cold fronts this week will leave Dallas-Fort Worth in the 30s by the weekend

A series of cold fronts this week will take Dallas-Fort Worth from warm weather Monday to nearly freezing temperatures by week’s end.

Temperatures hit 81 degrees at DFW International Airport on Monday, but by Friday morning North Texas could see lows in the mid-40s.

That’s November for you,” KXAS-TV (NBC5) meteorologist Grant Johnston said. “November is notorious for big temperature swings.”

The first cold front made its way through North Texas on Monday, but it didn't make much of an impact — Johnston called it "weak." The next two cold fronts will be progressively stronger.

Here’s what you can expect this week:

Election Day — 75/57, mostly sunny

Voters won’t be able to use bad weather as an excuse to not get to the polls. High temperatures are expected to be in the mid-70s on Tuesday.

Rain isn't expected during the day, but NBC5 meteorologist Samantha Davies said isolated showers could pop up during the late evening hours and after midnight.

Wednesday — 63/57

The second cold front of the week will move through North Texas on Wednesday and bring a chance of rain. Wednesday’s rain isn’t expected to be very widespread, Johnston said. Forecast models show a better chance of rain early in the morning, then clearing out in the afternoon.

Thursday — 56/52, showers likely

Rain chances will increase Thursday and become more widespread, Johnston said. No severe weather is expected in Dallas-Fort Worth, but a few scattered thunderstorms are possible.

Friday — 52/42, windy and cold

The third and final front of the week will be the strongest, plunging low temperatures into the mid-40s. Friday’s high is forecast at 52 degrees, but Johnston said, “We might be lucky to get to 50.”

The front could be strong enough to give areas along the Red River the potential for frost, according to the National Weather Service.

https://www.dallasnews.com/news/weather/2018/11/05/3-cold-fronts-week-will-leave-dallas-fort-worth-30s-weekend

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The Number and Causes of Office Fires

11/1/2018 (Permalink)

The Number and Causes of Office Fires

Every year, office fires cause over a hundred million dollars in property damage and several deaths. As much as the idea of wasted money and destroyed capital, we mourn the loss of even one person’s life infinitely more. Evacusafe US is dedicated to the mission of keeping everyone safe, especially those who are mobility impaired. As we work to provide every office in America with the safety equipment they need to keep their staff safe, we also want to help everyone reduce their need to actually use it. The more we all know about what causes office fires, the more we can do to prevent them. Strive for the best; prepare for the worst.

Number of Fires

From 2007-2017, there were an average of 3,340 fires in office buildings each year. That’s almost 10 every day. And it represents tens if not hundreds of thousands of employees. Any fire is a dangerous event so every fire should be taken very seriously. That means no matter the size of the fire, everyone needs to get out of the building safely and quickly. For those with mobility issues, this can be a moment of panic and danger. It’s very easy to head straight for the exit, forgetting that the person in the office next to you is in a wheelchair. And even if you do remember, do you have the equipment you need to get them out of the building without the help of an elevator?

According to the 2010 US Census, 30.6 million Americans have a disability that makes it difficult for them to walk or climb stairs. That’s just shy of 10%, which means that if the average office building has just 50 employees, 16,700 Americans needed assistance getting out of harm’s way. We would love to see every building outfitted with the proper safety equipment to ensure that every single one of them got out safely and efficiently.

Leading Causes of Fires in Offices

Most fires are caused by just a few different factors. In fact, according to the National Fire Protection Association, three out of four office fires were caused by just one of six things:

Cooking Equipment: 29%
Electrical Distribution & Lighting Equipment: 12%
Heating Equipment: 11%
Arson: 10%
Smoking Materials: 9%
Exposure: 4%
Electronic, Office, or Entertainment Equipment: 3%

Armed with this information, we hope you will have greater insight into your office risk factors and can take some necessary precautions to lower the risk of fire, thereby lowering the risk of injury or death in the event of a fire. Let’s take a look at these causes individually and review what can be done to make them safer.

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here 24/7 365, for all of your restoration needs

A Few Mold Facts

10/31/2018 (Permalink)

What are molds?

Top of Page

What are some of the common indoor molds?

Cladosporium
Penicillium
Alternaria
Aspergillus

Where are molds found?

Molds are found in virtually every environment and can be detected, both indoors and outdoors, year round. Mold growth is encouraged by warm and humid conditions. Outdoors they can be found in shady, damp areas or places where leaves or other vegetation is decomposing. Indoors they can be found where humidity levels are high, such as basements or showers.

What areas have high mold exposures?

Antique shops
Greenhouses
Saunas
Farms
Mills
Construction areas
Flower shops
Summer cottages

https://www.cdc.gov/mold/faqs.htm#where

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Interior clean up

10/30/2018 (Permalink)

Interior Clean-Up

When you’re ready to move inside, do so with extreme caution. Open all doors carefully and never force them ajar; the doorway could be supporting the building’s (now precarious) structure, and shifting its position could lead to injury, further damage, or even a collapse. Find an alternate entry to the front door if necessary, and consult a building inspector or fire marshal before entering any interior rooms with a jammed door.

Once you’re inside, stop and sniff for a gas leak. If you even think you detect the odor, or if you hear a suspicious hissing sound that could be a broken gas line, leave the house immediately and call the fire department. Follow their instructions implicitly and be sure to let your neighbors know what’s going on so they can take the necessary precautions.

As you begin your interior inspection, don’t forget to look up; the ceiling may be unstable or show signs of sagging from water collection. Similarly, the walls and flooring may have been weakened from fire or water damage, so step lightly and test any areas that look questionable before putting your own weight on them. You can use thick plywood panels or wood boards to cover unstable areas, just be sure they extend at least 8-12 inches on each side of the damaged area.

Use fans and open windows to increase the circulation of air throughout the home. If there’s a great amount of water damage and you live in a warm, humid climate, it may be better to keep the windows shut and instead opt for a dehumidifier. In cold weather, the heating system can help remove humidity from the air — just don’t forget to check and clean the filter each day.

Dry any wet items like drapes, carpet, and furniture as soon as possible to avoid permanent mold and mildew damage. Aluminum foil or plastic wrap can be placed under furniture legs for protection, and any fully-dried items can be enclosed in plastic until all cleanup is completed. You’ll need to completely remove large area rugs for proper drying, especially those that extend wall-to-wall.

Before you can start working on ridding your house and belongings of smoke odor, you’ll first need to address any soot. Soot is quite oily, meaning it’s easily transferred among items and prone to staining. You may be able to remove it yourself by taking the vacuum hose and holding it slightly off the surface of the item or area. Never use an upright vacuum or brush tools when removing soot, as that can cause the soot to grind deeper into fabric and carpet. You may even want to hire a professional carpet cleaner to remove the soot with a professional grade heavy-duty shop vacuum designed for these purposes.

To remove soot from walls, use a chemical sponge or another non-water based cleaner. (Be especially careful with plaster walls — water-based cleaners can actually cause the soot to bleed into the wall.) You may have success using paint thinner or rubbing alcohol, though you’ll want to ensure the room you’re working in has adequate ventilation before you begin.

Removing smoke odor from fabrics can be a tricky process, but the good news is that you have several options for treatment. For clothing, it may help to add 1-2 cups of vinegar to each wash load, though it may take several cycles to completely remove it. For persistent smells, try dissolving one cup of dishwasher detergent with one gallon of warm water and soaking the items overnight. Wash them as usual the next day. Never attempt to counter the smell with fabric refreshers or perfumes — at best, it will only mask the smell temporarily, and it could even amplify the problem.

For clothing that can be bleached, try mixing 4-6 tablespoons of trisodium phosphate (which can usually be found at your local hardware store), one cup of household chlorine bleach, and one gallon of water. Swish around the clothes and work the mixture through the fabric as much as possible, then rinse them with clean water.

When it comes to furniture and other items unable to be thrown in the wash, consult your local dry cleaner on which counteractants would be best to use; he may have several recommendations based on which items were affected, so be sure to tell him the kinds of materials you’ll be treating. He may even be able to suggest items for your laundry if you’re still having trouble removing the odor from clothing.

A major problem with smoke odor is that it can travel quite easily, including through walls and air ducts. Unfortunately, this means it can get trapped in air ducts and cause a recurring odor even months after the fire. Your best option to ensure your entire house gets aired out properly is to consult a professional about thermal fogging, a process that opens the pores of walls and neutralizes the smoke odor. It’s especially helpful in homes with attics, though you’ll likely need to remove odor-absorbing insulation from the attic either way.

While there are plenty of ways to clean up your home and property yourself, keep in mind that bringing in a professional may be the best route for certain tasks. While costly, these experts will know the best ways to get your home back to its pre-fire condition; plus, the expense will likely be significantly less than having to replace items after failed attempts to refurbish them yourself. Keep detailed records and receipts for both you and the insurance company; some of the repairs may be tax-deductible.

The fire recovery process comes with plenty of challenges and frustrations, so be sure you have a strong support system to help you through it. You may even discover that the cleanup process helps your family come together as one and bond, so look for silver linings as often as you can. With time, your home will look more like you remember it — perhaps even better! — and with patience, your emotional wounds will heal, as well.

https://www.redfin.com/blog/2016/08/the-guide-to-cleaning-up-after-a-house-fire.html

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What is considered Biohazardous waste?

10/24/2018 (Permalink)

Biohazardous waste includes the following materials:

Human blood and blood products: All human blood, blood products (such as serum, plasma, and other blood components) in liquid or semi-liquid form. Items contaminated with blood that, if compressed, would release blood in a liquid or semi-liquid form, or items caked with dried blood capable of being released during handling. Other body fluids or tissues containing visible blood.
Human Body Fluids: Human body fluids in a liquid or semi-liquid state, including: semen, vaginal secretions, cerebral spinal fluid, synovial fluid, pleural fluid, pericardial fluid, peritoneal fluid, amniotic fluid, and saliva from dental procedures. Also includes any other human body fluids visibly contaminated with blood, and all body fluids in situations where it is difficult or impossible to differentiate between body fluids.
Microbiological Wastes: Laboratory wastes containing or contaminated with concentrated forms of infectious agents. Such waste includes discarded specimen cultures, stocks of etiologic agents, discarded live and attenuated viruses, blood or body fluids known to contain infectious pathogens, wastes from the production of biologicals and serums, disposable culture dishes, and devices used to transfer, inoculate and mix cultures (BSL-1 through BSL-4 etiologic agents as designated by NIH Guidelines/BSC).
Pathological waste: All human tissues, organs, and body parts, including waste biopsy materials, tissues, and anatomical parts from surgery, procedures, or autopsy. Any unfixed human tissue, except skin.
Animal waste: All animal carcasses, body parts, and any bedding material from animals known to be infected with, or that have been inoculated with human pathogenic microorganisms infectious to humans.
Sharps waste: As defined in Section 9, Sharps Waste. The wastes above must be treated, packaged, labeled, and transported as described in the following sections. Sharps waste procedures are described in Section 9, Sharps Waste.
Recombinant DNA and RNA: As defined in the NIH Guidelines. These wastes must be treated, packaged, labeled, and transported as described in the following sections or as determined appropriate on the EMUA and approved by the Institutional Biosafety Committee

https://extranet.fredhutch.org/en/u/ehs/hamm/chap6/section8.html

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Why does my home smell musty?

10/22/2018 (Permalink)

Why does my home smell musty?

If your home or clothing smells musty, chances are you have mold or mildew hiding out. While other things — like a lack of ventilation or high levels of humidity — can make a musty odor more noticeable, they typically are not the primary cause of the smell.

While the term “musty” often brings to mind an old library or your grandma’s attic, mold and mildew can grow practically anywhere—even your modern home or apartment. Essentially, all mold needs to grow is the presence of mold spores, a surface to grow on, warmth, darkness, oxygen, and moisture.

The last ingredient — moisture — is the biggest problem. When all of the other environmental elements combine with condensation, moisture from humidity, or leaking water, mold begins to grow. As mold forms, grows, and spreads, it emits gasses known as microbial volatile organic compounds (MVOCs). So that musty odor you are smelling is not “just” mold but is a result of the chemical compounds released at different stages of the mold’s growth.

https://molekule.com/blog/musty-smells-getting-rid-of-them-from-your-home-clothes/

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What Every Employer Should Know

10/16/2018 (Permalink)

Look for Signs of Mold

With all of this attention, you may think that mold infestation is something new or uncommon. It is not. Mold is present in all buildings in some form and quantity. However, certain species of mold spores, in large enough concentrations, can be toxic. Although the health problems of mold exposure are in debate, there is literature tying some health effects to mold exposure. People with immune-compromised systems may experience permanent health effects.Physical symptoms related to exposure to mold or sick building syndrome include eye, nose and throat irritation; respiratory complaints; skin irritation; nausea; dizziness and fatigue. Alert your human resources department and/or office manager to be aware of any such symptoms. If numerous employees complain, or if employees complain of moldy smells, put the building owner on notice and request an investigation. If you own the building, consider hiring an air quality investigator. Although these symptoms could result from other factors, it is important to address them.

Look For the Cause

Lack of building maintenance
Poor building design or construction
Using wet building materials
Leaky pipes, windows, or doors
Regular, or even one-time flooding
Simple plumbing mistakes
Excessive humidity and condensation
Improper landscaping design or maintenance outside the building, causing water to flow toward the building
Any other serious water related problem
Address Moisture or Water Issues Promptly

If your building is experiencing water penetration, consistent moisture or leaks, demand that the landlord investigate the cause and promptly provide you with an action plan. If the landlord does not act, put it on notice that you intend to act and that you will hold it responsible for the costs. Give notice to your insurer. Do the same if you are the building owner.

Call in professionals to make an assessment. To stop further mold growth, the landlord or you must investigate and fix the source of the water or moisture. Ask for the help of contractors, the building designer and environmental experts to assess, identify and repair the source. A number of companies investigate mold and will come up with action plans to address it. Responding to mold involves more than just determining and fixing the source of the water. Often several experts must be retained, including experts in toxicology and epidemiology. Expert testing may cost thousands of dollars. If mold is found in large enough concentrations, the building must be cleaned and remediated to ensure the safety of the occupants before they return. Once the problem is fixed, ask the expert to certify that the building is "clean," or demand such a certification from the landlord.

https://www.ehstoday.com/mag/ehs_imp_36553 SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs

Above average storm activity in 2018

10/15/2018 (Permalink)

'Above-average' storm activity so far in 2018 hurricane season, expert says

The 2018 hurricane season has so far seen above-average storm activity and a near-normal number of major hurricanes, according to Colorado State University meteorologist Phillip Klotzbach.

Earlier in the season, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's revised forecast issued Aug. 9 noted forecasters expected a "below-normal" season with up to 13 named storms for the entire season, at least four of were to be hurricanes. This hurricane season's first forecast -- issued April 5 -- called for a "slightly above-average" season.

With approximately 45 days left in hurricane season, the Atlantic has already seen 14.

According to data collected by Klotzbach, the 14 named storms exceeds the 12.1 average for Atlantic storm activity in an entire season. This year has already seen about 82 named stormed days, whereas in years past, about 59 days is the average. There have also been seven hurricanes, surpassing the average five.

Major hurricanes are ranking at about average; the Atlantic has seen two so far this year, whereas the average is recorded at 2.7. This season has seen five major hurricane days, with an average set at 6.2.Hurricane season extends through Nov. 30.

https://www.nola.com/weather/index.ssf/2018/10/2018_hurricane_season_sees_abo.html

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Reduce flood damage to your home

10/12/2018 (Permalink)

While flooding can occur at any time of year, the spring is a particularly troublesome time of year as snow and ice melts and seasonal rains begin. IBHS suggests the following improvement projects to help protect property against potential flood damage.

Flooding and flash flooding are a leading cause of weather-related fatalities in the United States, according to the National Weather Service. Floods are also the most common weather-related cause of property damage in the nation. During Hurricane Sandy, many property owners were caught off guard by the risk that flooding posed as the storm came ashore. This misunderstanding of their flood risk led to many deaths and injuries. Homes were washed away, and businesses were heavily damaged by flood waters. Ultimately, Sandy resulted in $6.7 billion in National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) payouts as of July 2013, second only to Hurricane Katrina’s $16.3 billion in payouts in August 2005, according to the Insurance Information Institute.

Understand Your Flood Risk

Updated Flood Maps

A flood map (sometimes referred to as a floodplain map or FEMA flood map) can be used to identify floodplain location and flood zones. IBHS encourages residents to learn about the flooding risk of their properties and take steps to reduce that risk. The best place to start is by finding out what flood zone, from high to low risk, your property is in. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) works with each municipality to create and update flood maps that show the flood zone for each part of the community. You can look up your property on the local flood map by visiting FEMA’s Flood Map Service Center or contacting your city or county government. Your insurance agent or mortgage lender may also be able to assist.

Floods maps are redrawn by FEMA to reflect new information and recommendations. In fact, many communities are currently receiving new, more detailed flood maps as part of an ongoing flood map modernization effort by FEMA. Consult your city or county building department to determine if your local maps have been or will soon be updated. If an update has recently been completed or is ongoing, it is recommended that you review the maps to see if the redrawing has affected the flood zone for your property.

Additional information on looking up your property on flood maps and the meaning of the flood zone designations is available at FloodSmart.gov. It is important to note that there are many times when a building can experience flood damage—even if it is not located within a high-risk flood area on the flood map. Therefore, it is best to get an understanding of the flood zone of your entire surrounding area to fully understand your risk.

Know Your Base Flood Elevation

Once you know what flood zone your property is in, it is important to find out what the Base Flood Elevation (BFE) is for your property. The BFE is the elevation at which your building has a one percent chance of flooding annually. You can find the BFE for your property listed on many flood maps, especially newer ones, or by contacting your local building department, or hiring a licensed surveyor. After identifying the BFE for your property, you need to determine whether the elevation of your building’s lowest floor is above or below the published BFE for your property. If your building is below the BFE for the area, you should consider elevating your structure to reduce the chances it will flood. IBHS recommends that buildings be at least 3 feet above the BFE to account for higher-than-expected flooding levels.

Flood Insurance

Once you know what your risk is, you also should consider purchasing flood insurance, especially if you find you are in, or near, a high-risk flood zone (Special Flood Hazard Area). Flood insurance is provided through the federal National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), and can be purchased through private insurance agents and companies. If you have a federally backed mortgage, be aware that your lender may require you to purchase flood insurance if you are in or near a high-risk flood zone.

https://disastersafety.org/flood/reduce-flood-damage-to-homes/

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Hurricane Michael

10/11/2018 (Permalink)

Michael Treks Through Southeast After Leaving Florida Beach Towns in Ruins, Kills 2; Flooding Swamps North Carolina Towns

When Hurricane Michael made landfall as a high-end Category 4 storm on the Florida Panhandle Wednesday, buildings along the coast were smashed to pieces, storm-surge flooding lapped at the eaves of beach houses and an Air Force base sustained extensive damage. Two people have died in the storm, which continued to zip across Georgia and the Carolinas Thursday morning.

One death was reported in the Panhandle. A Greensboro man was killed when a tree crashed on his home, according to Gadsden County Sheriff's Office spokeswoman Anglie Hightower. In southern Georgia, an 11-year-old girl was killed when a carport hit her home in Seminole County. The county coroner later identified her as Sarah Radney.

In Florida, from Panama City through Mexico Beach — where the storm made landfall — and into Apalachicola, houses were swamped or blown apart, roofs were ripped off, boats sank and trees toppled in the high winds. Aerial images at Mexico Beach Thursday morning showed extreme damage, with homes swept completely off their foundations and destroyed and few properties left standing along the coast.

"Mexico Beach took the brunt," FEMA Administrator Brock Long said. "That’s probably ground zero."

https://weather.com/storms/hurricane/news/2018-10-11-hurricane-michael-damage-florida-georgia-alabama-carolina

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11 jobs that go into overdrive when a natural disaster strikes

10/5/2018 (Permalink)

11 jobs that go into overdrive when a natural disaster strikes

With Hurricane Florence set to deliver a devastating blow to the Carolinas beginning late Thursday morning through the weekend, residents there are bracing for the worst. But while many homeowners are boarding up windows and stocking up on food and water, thousands of workers across a number of industries are in overdrive, helping to serve, protect, save, restore and relieve the communities that will be affected by the storm.

Hospitality workers

Airline personnel

Emergency responders

Restoration specialists

Disaster relief workers

Forensic weather experts

*Self-storage unit owners

*Tree-removal experts

Auto mechanics

Hardware-store employees

Grocers

https://www.cnbc.com/2018/09/13/8-jobs-that-go-into-overdrive-after-a-natural-disaster.html

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Tropical Storm Rosa

10/2/2018 (Permalink)

Tropical Storm Rosa is about to make landfall and drench the arid Southwest

Deserts aren't supposed to get much rain, but Tropical Storm Rosa is flipping the script.

Rosa is expected make landfall Monday evening on Mexico's Baja California, CNN meteorologist Gene Norman said.The storm will douse Baja California with 3 to 6 inches of rain, with some spots getting up to 10 inches, the National Hurricane Center said.As it moves northeast Rosa will also dump 2 to 4 inches of rain on much of Arizona, with up to 6 inches in the Arizona mountains. Historically, it's unusual for the US Southwest to get pummeled by a hurricane or tropical storm. But "these events have begun to increase in recent years," Norman said.Research indicates that global warming contributes to tropical storms getting "more intense, bigger and longer-lasting, thereby increasing their potential for damage," said Kevin Trenberth, senior scientist at the National Center for Atmospheric Research.While there might not be a direct link between global warming and the recent increase of severe storms in the US Southwest, "it is possible that this could be a side effect of climate change," Norman said."Warmer oceans are allowing eastern Pacific storms to reach higher latitudes," he said. "This was not the case earlier. It was quite rare for an eastern Pacific storm to even reach Baja California, and this now becoming more common." https://www.cnn.com/2018/10/01/weather/tropical-storm-rosa-wxc/index.html SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs

Cleaning After Fire

10/1/2018 (Permalink)

Cleaning After Fire

The October 2017 California Fires in Northern California were devastating. Northern California will be dealing with the death and destruction of recent wildfires for years. The immediate life-safety concerns about fire are obvious and frightening, but what many don’t realize is that returning to fire damaged buildings is also hazardous. Cleaning after fire is part of recovery, but done wrong this activity may do more harm. If you’re returning to a fire damaged community follow these fire restoration tips to reduce your health risks.

After you have dealt with the initial raw emotions of fire loss, after you have contacted your insurance company and relatives and emergency personnel that are worried about you, it is time to cleanup and rebuild. FEMA has a checklist for “returning to normal” after a fire. If hiring professionals is not in the budget or you want to get back home before the pros show up, read these tips for cleaning after a fire.

Immediate Threats When Cleaning After Fire

These basic measures may save your life when you return to cleanup after a fire.

Do not reenter a fire stricken area or building unless a professional has verified it is safe to enter. Fires may reappear and you don’t want to be stuck in the danger zone. Do not go around police/fire barricades or ignore evacuation orders.
Do not approach downed power lines or attempt to work around electrical wires.
If the structure has been significantly impact and there are any concerns about the structural integrity of the building, do not enter until an expert or structural engineer okays the building.
Do not enter areas with standing water. There may be hidden dangers in the water.
Hire a professional fire restoration company – if you can. Here is a checklist for hiring a contractor after a fire. Talk to your insurance first.

https://healthybuildingscience.com/2017/10/18/cleaning-after-fire/

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Tropical Storm Kirk reemerges, strengthens in Atlantic, forecasters say

9/27/2018 (Permalink)

Tropical Storm Kirk, which lost strength and had dissipated earlier this week as it crossed the tropical Atlantic, has strengthened and reemerged Tuesday, according to the National Hurricane Center (NHC) in Miami. Forecasters say little additional change in strength is expected through Thursday and is expected to weaken as it crosses over the eastern Caribbean Sea.

According to the NHC's 5 p.m. EDT advisory, Kirk was located about 260 miles east of Barbados and about 380 miles east-southeast of Martinique, moving west-northwest at about 18 mph. The storm is packing maximum sustained winds of 60 mph with tropical storm-force winds reaching outward up to 115 miles from the center.

NHC's forecast says the center of Kirk will move over the Lesser Antilles by Thursday afternoon.

In the Pacific coast, weather officials are monitoring Hurricane Rosa. Forecasters said it is expected to strengthen but doesn't pose an immediate threat to land.

Tropical storm warning

The NHC announced a tropical storm warning for Barbados, St. Lucia, Dominica, Martinique and Guadeloupe with tropical storm conditions that may happen within the next 36 hours.

Tropical storm watch

NHC said a tropical storm watch is in effect for St. Vincent and the Grenadines -- with tropical storm conditions appearing within the next 36 hours.

Possible rain fall

NHC says Kirk can produce total rainfall of 4 to 6 inches across the northern Windward and southern Leeward Islands -- with isolated maximum totals up to 10 inches across Martinique and Dominica. They warn of life-threatening flash floods and mudslides.

Latest forecast track

The NHC released an image showing Kirk's forecasted movement through the next couple of days

https://www.cbsnews.com/news/tropical-storm-kirk-strengthens-atlantic-national-hurricane-center-latest-forecast-path-track-today-2018-09-26/

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Effects of Flooding

9/26/2018 (Permalink)

Effects of flooding

Floods can have devastating consequences and can have effects on the economy, environment and people.

Economic
During floods (especially flash floods), roads, bridges, farms, houses and automobiles are destroyed. People become homeless. Additionally, the government deploys firemen, police and other emergency apparatuses to help the affected. All these come at a heavy cost to people and the government. It usually takes years for affected communities to be re-built and business to come back to normalcy.
Did you know that the cost of all floodings in the USA in 2011 was $8,640,031,956 (approx 8.5B USD) — http://www.nws.noaa.gov/hic/

Environment
The environment also suffers when floods happen. Chemicals and other hazardous substances end up in the water and eventually contaminate the water bodies that floods end up in. In 2011, a huge tsunami hit Japan, and sea water flooded a part of the coastline. The flooding caused massive leakage in nuclear plants and has since caused high radiation in that area. Authorities in Japan fear that Fukushima radiation levels are 18 times higher than even thought.

Additionally, flooding causes kills animals, and others insects are introduced to affected areas, distorting the natural balance of the ecosystem.

People and animals
Many people and animals have died in flash floods. Many more are injured and others made homeless. Water supply and electricity are disrupted and people struggle and suffer as a result. In addition to this, flooding brings a lot of diseases and infections including military fever, pneumonic plague, dermatopathia and dysentery. Sometimes insects and snakes make their ways to the area and cause a lot of havoc.

...But...
There is also something good about floods, especially those that occur in floodplains and farm fields. Floodwaters carry lots of nutrients that are deposited in the plains. Farmers love such soils, as they are perfect for cultivating some kinds of crops.

http://eschooltoday.com/natural-disasters/floods/effects-of-flooding.html

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Common Mold Types

9/25/2018 (Permalink)

Molds (also spelled “moulds”) are simple, microscopic organisms that can grow virtually anywhere, both inside buildings and outdoors. Mold colonies can grow inside damp or wet building structures. And mold spores are a common component of household and workplace dust.

Health effects from exposure to mold can vary greatly depending on the person and the amount and type of mold present.

Regardless of the type of mold, it should be treated as potentially a health hazard and should be removed from homes and workplaces.

Common Mold Types Found in Homes and Their Hazard Classes

Hazard Classes of Indoor Mold

In some countries indoor fungi have been grouped into 3 hazard classes based on associated health risk. These classes are similar to risk groups assigned to microorganisms handled in laboratory environments.

Hazard Class A: includes fungi or their metabolic products that are highly hazardous to health. These fungi or metabolites should not be present in occupied dwellings. Presence of these fungi in occupied buildings requires immediate attention.
Hazard class B: includes those fungi which may cause allergic reactions to occupants if present indoors over a long period.
Hazard Class C: includes fungi not known to be a hazard to health. Growth of these fungi indoors, however, may cause economic damage and therefore should not be allowed.

Molds commonly found in kitchens and bathrooms

Cladosporium cladosporioides (hazard class B)
Cladosporium sphaerospermum (hazard class C)
Ulocladium botrytis (hazard class C)
Chaetomium globosum (hazard class C)
Aspergillus fumigatus (hazard class A)

Molds commonly found on wallpapers

Cladosporium sphaerospermum
Chaetomium spp., particularly Chaetomium globosum
Doratomyces spp (no information on hazard classification)
Fusarium spp (hazard class A)
Stachybotrys chartarum, commonly called ‘black mold‘ (hazard class A)
Trichoderma spp (hazard class B)
Scopulariopsis spp (hazard class B)

Molds commonly found on mattresses and carpets

Penicillium spp., especially Penicillium chrysogenum (hazard class B) and Penicillium aurantiogriseum (hazard class B)
Aspergillus versicolor (hazard class A)
Aureobasidium pullulans (hazard class B)
Aspergillus repens (no information on hazard classification)
Wallemia sebi (hazard class C)
Chaetomium spp., particularly Chaetomium globosum
Scopulariopsis spp.

Molds commonly found on window frames

Aureobasidium pullulans
Cladosporium sphaerospermum
Ulocladium spp.

Molds commonly found in basement (cellars)

Aspergillus versicolor
Aspergillus fumigatus
Fusarium spp.

Molds commonly found in flower pot soil

Aspergillus fumigatus
Aspergillus niger (hazard class A)
Aspergillus flavus (hazard class A)

https://www.moldbacteria.com/mold-types.html

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Atlantic hurricane season ramps up again with development of Leslie, Kirk

9/24/2018 (Permalink)

Atlantic hurricane season ramps up again with development of Leslie, Kirk

Following a brief lull in tropical weather across the Atlantic Basin, several areas of interest developed this past weekend, including the season's newest named storms.

Tropical Storm Kirk developed on Saturday morning. It formed at 8.3 degrees north latitude, making it the lowest latitude at which an Atlantic named storm has formed since 1902. Kirk weakened into a tropical depression late Sunday evening but is currently a tropical rainstorm.

Kirk is moving through an area of relatively dry air, which will limit opportunities for intensification, according to Kottlowski.

"Kirk will not be a threat to land during the next few days," Kottlowski said. This will give those potentially in its track plenty of time to prepare.

The first areas to feel the impacts of Kirk will likely be the Windward Islands of the eastern Caribbean. Swells churned up by the storm could be noticeable on eastern-facing shores by midweek.

"It could threaten parts of the Windward Islands with strong to perhaps damaging winds and heavy rainfall by Thursday or Friday," Kottlowski warned.

Elsewhere in the Atlantic, Subtropical Storm Leslie formed on Sunday morning between Bermuda and the Azores.

Leslie is expected to slowly drift eastward over the next 24-48 hours while it maintains its status as a tropical storm.

No impacts to land are expected during this time, and Leslie will likely dissipate over the open waters of the Atlantic by midweek.

https://www.accuweather.com/en/weather-news/the-tropics-are-heating-up-again-tropical-depression-kirk-and-subtropical-storm-leslie-churn-in-the-atlantic/70006140

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What to Do After a Fire Shuts Down Your Business

9/23/2018 (Permalink)

Although many of us go through great efforts to fireproof our home, we rarely bring this outlook into the workplace. While there’s no replacement for a little bit of forethought and diligence, a fire at your place of business doesn’t have to mean the end of your company altogether. In fact, approximately 60 percent of all U.S.-based businesses reopen their doors after a disastrous fire. Some companies have even gone on to achieve a great amount of success and profitability after such an event.

What to Do After a Fire

Determine the Responsible Party

The first thing you should do in the wake of a fire at your business is determine the responsible party. This depends on a number of different factors, including whether you lease or own the building, the exact cause of the fire and even your specific amount of insurance coverage. Keep in mind that some insurance policies only cover the contents of the structure and not the materials used in the actual construction of the building.

Sometimes, you may need to wait until an investigation has been completed by your local fire department, police department or insurance company. If this is the case, make sure to maintain communications for further information and instructions.

Safeguard and Secure Your Remaining Property

If the fire has caused significant damage to the exterior walls, doors, windows or roof of your building, you’ll want to act quickly in order to safeguard and secure your remaining property. Smoldering remains should be fully extinguished and any large holes should be temporarily patched. Not only will this prevent vandalism after the fact, but a little bit of effort can go a long way towards minimizing the overall amount of damage caused.

Contact Anyone Who May Be Affected

Next comes the daunting task of contacting anyone who may have been affected as a result of the fire. This includes employees, board members, external partners and, in some cases, customers. If any activities or services need to be postponed or suspended, make sure to communicate that news, too. The last thing you want to do after a fire is to leave your valuable employees and business partners in the dark about the future of your company.

Furthermore, don’t forget to contact your insurance agent as soon as possible. A simple call or email will typically suffice, though large claims may require face-to-face consultation or even an on-site inspection of the damaged property.

Get Your Documentation in Order

Your insurance company will require proof regarding any claimed losses as a result of the fire, so be sure to have any pertinent documentation, including receipts, user manuals and credit card statements, at the ready. You may even want to take digital pictures or video of your property. Not only can this be used in determining your overall losses, it could serve as hard evidence in case any court proceedings should follow.

Repair and Restore Damage

If the structure isn’t a total loss, you might be able to rebuild, repair and restore your business back to its original state. Extensive smoke damage, for example, can typically be cleaned up through a number of different tools so you can go on with business as usual after the restoration.

Initiate the Recovery of Sensitive or Critical Data

Depending on your exact case, you may need to take steps to recover any sensitive or critical data that was lost in the occurrence. Damaged servers, hard drives and even personal computers can all hold data critical to the day-to-day operations of your business.

If the situation warrants, you may even consider hiring a third-party that specializes in data recovery and restoration, specifically in the event of fire. Such individuals are more likely to be equipped with the right hardware and software tools than a company that offers general disaster recovery services. Most data recovery experts will also be able to work with you in order to introduce techniques in disaster recovery planning and data loss prevention.

Getting Back to Business

Once everything has been restored to order, it’s finally time to get back to business. Make sure to outline a comprehensive fire safety plan when moving forward, just in case your business experiences another fire. You might also consider increasing your insurance coverage for the future. After all, it’s better to be safe than sorry.

https://smallbiztrends.com/2016/07/what-to-do-after-a-fire-business.html

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Hurricane season isn't over yet!

9/21/2018 (Permalink)

There is still more of hurricane season to go': Expert warns another tropical threat may make US landfall

Even though the tropical Atlantic is void of organized storms at this time, conditions may again get busy over the next couple of weeks with a few areas of potential development.

Sept. 10 marked the peak of the Atlantic hurricane season from a climatology standpoint. However, hurricane season does not officially end until Nov. 30. The coming weeks into mid-October often bring several additional tropical storms and hurricanes. This year may not be any exception.

AccuWeather long-range tropical meteorologists, led by Hurricane Expert Dan Kottlowski, are projecting two to four more tropical storms, of which one or two may become hurricanes, following Tropical Storm Joyce.

There have been 10 tropical storms, of which five became hurricanes. Three named systems, Alberto, Florence and Gordon, made landfall in the United States.

Thus far, Florence has been the only major hurricane (Category 3 or higher) in the basin.

https://www.accuweather.com/en/weather-news/there-is-still-more-of-hurricane-season-to-go-expert-warns-another-tropical-threat-may-make-us-landfall/70006119

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What is in Smoke Residue/Soot?

9/20/2018 (Permalink)

What is in the Smoke Residue/Soot? All materials involved in a fire cause odors. Typically, soot is representative of what has burned, but may include byproducts that at first seem unrelated to the original material. For example, hydrogen cyanide is a byproduct of burning wool. When wood burns it can produce manganese and benzene. As many products as there are in the world, there are an equal number of byproducts produced in a fire. Each fire is different based on the contents of what has burned during the event. Organic and inorganic materials produce different types of smoke residue or soot. These residues may be present on surfaces that conservators may be tasked with treating. Burnt organic material produces soot that is hard to see and often has a very pungent odor. This is known as protein smoke. It can discolor paints and varnishes. Protein smoke can disperse over large areas and attach itself to everything. How the fire burns and how much moisture is in the air while the fire burns, plays a role in soot deposition on articles. The amount of moisture in the air is a key component in whether the smoke that is produced is wet or dry. There are several types of smoke or soot, which may be present on a surface that conservators might be tasked with treating: Wet Smoke—can present as a sticky residue or soot, and is often associated with a smoldering type of fire and often will have a strong odor. Dry Smoke—associated with a fast-burning fire and occurs at high temperatures. Protein—often present in soot, usually invisible, it can discolor paints and varnishes and often has a very pungent odor. Protein odors could be caused by food on the stove burning slowly or other sources. The slow burn allows the protein to disperse and attach itself to everything, producing a strong odor.

http://www.conservation-us.org/docs/default-source/periodicals/2010-09-sept-aicnews.pdf?sfvrsn=6

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Hurricane Florence Aftermath

9/19/2018 (Permalink)

Florence aftermath is a 'nightmare' of swollen rivers, flooding and rising deaths

(CNN)Hurricane Florence's rainfall has stopped, but its "nightmare" destruction isn't over yet.

On Wednesday, thousands of evacuees were urged to stay away from their homes, rivers kept rising, and the threat of floods remained high in North and South Carolina. Many roads remained closed,and thousands of people lack power.President Donald Trump spoke with state and federal officials about 11 a.m. ET at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point on the Neuse River in North Carolina. Trump said the federal government would do everything necessary to ensure recovery. He praised first responders and said the country mourns with the families of the at least 36 people killed by Florence."Our state took a gut punch and our state is still reeling," North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper told Trump, calling the storm "epic, disastrous and widespread." "We've got a long road ahead in the days, in the months and even years ahead to make sure we build back." https://www.cnn.com/2018/09/19/us/florence-wednesday-wxc/index.html SERVPRO of North Arlington is here 24/7 365, for all of your restoration need!

Is Your Business prepared for a flood?

9/17/2018 (Permalink)

Business checklist! Are you prepared for flooding? If you answer no to any of the questions overleaf, there may be more you can do to protect your business. The individual sections will give you valuable information on effective actions you can take to prepare for a flood. Know if you’re at risk Do you know if you're at risk of flooding? Are flood warnings available in your area? Do you know how you can receive flood warnings? Preparing a flood plan Do you know how your business will respond to a flood? Do you have a list of useful numbers including Floodline, local authority and insurance company? Do you know how to shut off your gas/electric/water supplies? Are your stock, fittings and valuable equipment stored above flood level? Have you developed flood contingency plans with suppliers and/or clients? Can you call someone to help you in the event of a flood? Staff training and evacuation Are you aware of correct flood safety procedures for you and your staff? Have you trained your staff on flood safety procedures? Can your staff work quickly and efficiently to protect your business in the event of a flood? Protecting your property Have you installed flood protection products? Do you have a stockpile of useful materials including plywood, plastic sheeting, sandbags (unfilled), sand, nails, hammer, shovel, blocks of wood and a saw? Have you installed non return valves in your toilets and drains? Do you and your staff have high ground where you can park your cars? Are your electrical sockets above flood level? Do you have computer equipment in the basement? Flood insurance Do you have sufficient insurance cover in the event of a flood situation? Do you know what information your insurer will require to support a claim? Evacuation Do you have an easy way to let your staff know about an evacuation? Do you know which roads will stay open in your area during a flood? Have you identified where staff can shelter in the event of a flood? Could you control staff panic during a flood?

https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/410606/LIT_5284.pdf

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Steps to take after a flood

9/13/2018 (Permalink)

MY BUSINESS FLOODED, NOW WHAT?: STEPS TO TAKE AFTER A FLOOD

How can a flood affect your business?

Health and safety risks such as:

Structural damage
Electrical damage
Sharp glass and metal debris
Sanitary hazards from standing water
Contaminated drinking water
Damaged cropsEmotional hardship: Mental health professionals are kept on hand when FEMA and Red Cross respond to flood disasters because flood victims can experience difficulty coping with their situation and may have anxiety, depression, fear, anger, frustration, sadness, and grief.Steps to take after the flood
It is not possible to reverse the effects of a natural disaster, but you can minimize the impact on your business by keeping a level head and doing everything in your power to get back to business as soon as possible. You will be shaken up and overwhelmed after the flood, but there are tips to protect your right to recover.
Economic loss: Flood damage puts a huge strain on victims financially. When a business is flooded, operations are at a stand-still.
Loss of life: Death is the most devastating affect flood damage can have on you or your business.

When your property is safe enough to return, shut off your gas and electricity. Contact your service providers if you are unsure how to do so.
Remove your belongings from the water to avoid more damage. While collecting your belongings, list all damage you find.
Get in contact with your insurance agent or insurance company immediately. If you have flood insurance for your business, your agent will help you make a claim, and an adjuster will later contact you. The quickest way to make a claim may be online. Check your policy for an e-mail address where claims can be made. Keep following up for a claim number.
Document all damage immediately by taking photos and video to assist in identifying the true extent of the damage for your insurance claim. This should include structural damage, personal property damage, and standing floodwater levels. Send these records to your insurance company. Don’t forget to document the date and time of your calls, who you spoke to, and all contact you make with your insurance company.
Start cleaning up. Unsanitary items float around in flood waters so it is important you wear gloves and clothing that you can throw away after the cleanup Don’t discard any items until you check with your insurance company first. Shovel any debris and mud outside. Disinfect all surfaces with a solution of one-fourth cup of chlorine bleach and a gallon of water to kill germs and prevent mildew. Open your doors and windows to allow the air to circulate to protect your premises from possible mold growth. Try salvaging important files and documents by rinsing off any debris, drying and then freezing in plastic freezer bags. Cover roof damage with a tarp.
People notice when a business is left unattended. If your premises are unsuitable to be in and are going to be unattended for any period, you should secure your premises as best as you can to prevent further loss and damage.
Don’t forget about your customers. Depending on the type of business you run, contact your customers and advise them of your situation. This will reassure them of your long-term commitment and will be more willing to understand.
Gather your business records that will prove the value of damaged equipment and inventory. You also want to collect proof of income your business was generating before and after the disaster which includes tax returns, monthly sales tax returns, business contracts, and any other financial statement pertinent to calculating the projected income of your business.
Create separate cost codes specific to the flood damage and allocate all related expenses to this code. Record the cost if you will be conducting business from a temporary location, detailed records of business activity, and any other costs incurred maintaining your business during repairs. This will help you organize and make it easier to track the final costs.
You will need to file a Proof of Loss with your insurance company within 60 days after the date of loss (or within any extension made in writing by the Associate Administrator for Federal Insurance and Mitigation) if you have a Standard Flood Insurance Policy. The NFIP or insurance company will not issue payment without this.
When the insurance adjuster is inspecting your business for flood damage, he may rely on you to point out and provide information about the extent of your flood damage. Make it know that the damages you have noticed so far, may not be the only damage because some may not be visible right away.
Do not sign the proof of loss attesting to damage if you do not agree with the amount of damage reported by the insurance adjuster or the amount they are offering to cover the damages. When you sign proof of loss, you are swearing the information provided is correct. Do your own research and contact a trusted contractor. Have them give you written estimates to repair and replace the property and all damages.
https://www.carlsonattorneys.com/news-and-update/business-flooded-steps-take-floods/

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Biohazard Remediation: When to Make the Call

9/12/2018 (Permalink)

Biohazard remediation professionals specialize in the safe removal of biohazardous waste, often from the scene of a crime, animal infestation or accident.

There are some things you can't clean up alone.

While no one likes to think of their own home as a biohazard, in extreme circumstances it may be emotionally traumatizing or physically unwise to tackle a cleaning job by yourself. In these cases, you need to consider hiring a biohazard remediation company; specialists trained to remove sources of contamination and return a home to a safe state.

Not sure why you'd ever need to make this kind of call? Here are three situations that might require a biohazard cleaner.

Animal infestation

You might discover this while doing a home renovation, or after a disaster like a fire or flood. It could be anything, such as a family of raccoons in your attic or a colony of mice living under your floorboards or in your ceiling. If enough animals are present or if they've lived in the space long enough, you may have a biohazard, which is defined as the presence of any biological substance which poses a threat to human or animal health. In this case, the animals will have deposited feces and possibly blood throughout the structure of your home, in addition to the bodies of deceased pack members. Cleaning up this kind of mess yourself puts you at risk for contracting a serious illness, such as hookworm or cryptosporidiosis.

Hoarding

As recent reality television programs delight in showing viewers, hoarding items in a home is not uncommon. If you or someone you know is a hoarder, you may need to assist in removing excess items from the home, which can be a major health hazard. Often, this is because hoarders neglect basic cleanliness in their homes, allowing sinks and toilets to become clogged and filthy. Garbage cans are never emptied, carpets are never vacuumed and food spills are never cleaned up. The result is a hazardous environment, one which you may not be able to fully clean on your own. Attempts to do so may spot-clean affected areas, but without the right products and experience you may not able to completely remediate the home.

Sewer backup

If the sewer line from your home to the municipal system backs up or overflows, you may want to call in a biohazard company. Waste matter in sewer lines -- everything from feces to urine to soiled toilet paper -- has the potential to carry disease, and when sewer water comes in contact with carpet or drywall the result is a sponge-like effect, where liquid and microorganisms are sucked up and trapped. Wading into this sewer water puts you at serious risk, and removing just the carpet or drywall may not address subfloor, framing or even foundation issues.

https://www.angieslist.com/articles/biohazard-remediation-when-make-call.htm

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UPDATE on Hurricane Florence

9/11/2018 (Permalink)

Expanding in size, violent Hurricane Florence is continuing on a beeline toward the East Coast as an “extremely dangerous” Category 4 hurricane. Catastrophic flooding and destructive winds are becoming very likely in the eastern Carolinas.

Forecasts generally project the storm to make landfall between northern South Carolina and North Carolina’s Outer Banks as a strong Category 3 on Thursday, although shifts in the track are possible and storm impacts will expand great distances beyond where landfall occurs.

The National Hurricane Center is warning of a triple threat in the Carolinas and Virginia:

A “life-threatening storm surge” at the coast — a rise in ocean water over normally dry land.
“Life-threatening freshwater flooding from a prolonged and exceptionally heavy rainfall event” from the coast to interior sections.
“Damaging hurricane-force winds” at the coast and some distance inland.

Like Hurricane Harvey, which stalled over Texas in 2017, Florence could linger over the Southeast for several days after landfall, unloading 15 to 20 inches of rain and isolated amounts to 30 inches. The Hurricane Center said this “could produce catastrophic flash flooding.”

The flooding might be similar to or worse than what the Carolinas experienced during Hurricane Matthew in 2016.

More than 1.5 million people have been ordered to evacuate coastal areas ahead of the storm, due to both destructive winds and storm surge which could place normally dry land under at least 10 feet of water.

“All interests from South Carolina into the Mid-Atlantic region should ensure they have their hurricane plan in place and follow any advice given by local officials,” the Hurricane Center said.

https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/capital-weather-gang/wp/2018/09/11/hurricane-florence-watches-posted-as-extremely-dangerous-florence-churns-toward-carolinas/?utm_term=.ecf5ee1a8b4f

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Hurricane Florence headed to Carolina

9/10/2018 (Permalink)

Approximately 800 South Carolina National Guard soldiers and airmen have been mobilized to prepare, respond and participate in recovery efforts associated with Hurricane Florence, according to a statement from the 169th Fighter Wing Public Affairs Office.

The guard personnel are deploying from McEntire Joint National Guard Base near Columbia and heading to Bluffton, South Carolina, for assignment, according to the statement.

What we're covering here

Hurricane Florence has its sights set on the Carolinas, and if it hits as hard as predicted, the storm will be the most powerful to pound the area in three decades.
ETA: The storm is expected to approach the Southeastern US coast on Thursday as a Category 4 storm or higher. Track it here.

https://www.cnn.com/us/live-news/hurricane-florence-dle/index.html

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Hurricane Florence

9/7/2018 (Permalink)

MIAMI —

After intensifying into a major hurricane, Florence substantially weakened and was reclassified as a tropical storm Friday morning with sustained winds of 65 miles per hour.

"Florence's structure continues to be negatively affected by strong southwesterly shear," the National Hurricane Center wrote in a 5 a.m. update.

>>>Checklist: Be prepared for a hurricane

However, in the next 48 hours, the storm is expected to restrengthen.

On Wednesday, Florence became the first major hurricane of the 2018 Atlantic season, with maximum sustained winds peaking at 130 mph, making it a Category 4 hurricane, according to the National Hurricane Center.

Florence is expected regain major hurricane intensity (Category 3 or greater) by early next week -- as the storm moves northwest, getting closer to the US coastline by the day.

It's too early to tell if the storm will make landfall somewhere on the East Coast, or if it will turn harmlessly back to sea.

Still, there are some troubling signs in the major computer models that meteorologists use to predict hurricane tracks a week or more in advance.

The European and American models have shifted westward in the past two days, consistently showing a menacing hurricane coming dangerously close to the Eastern Seaboard.

There are dozens of different models and versions of forecast tracks that meteorologists have among their forecasting tools, and a majority still show the center of Florence staying offshore -- but most track it close enough to cause some impact next week.

Florence should track south of Bermuda early next week but will be close enough to bring gusty winds and dangerous surf conditions. Large swells will also begin affecting the Southeastern US coastlines, with larger waves and rough surf as early as this weekend, increasing through next week.

Florence's track will depend on the development and movement of a number of weather systems as the storm gets steered by a large ridge of high pressure in the Eastern United States and northern Atlantic as well as the progress of a low pressure trough across the country.

But East Coast residents can feel reassured about one thing: More than 75 storms have passed within 200 miles of Florence's current location in the Atlantic since hurricane records began in the 1850s, and not a single one made a US landfall.

Even if Florence stays out to sea, models show other systems developing over the Atlantic, almost on cue as the hurricane season hits its peak Monday. The eight weeks around then often are prime time for the conditions that fuel powerful storms.

The National Hurricane Center is monitoring a couple of other tropical waves in the eastern Atlantic that it says are likely to develop into tropical storms in the next several days.

https://www.wesh.com/article/tropical-storm-florence-expected-to-restrengthen/22976790

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Dos and Don’ts of Disaster Cleanup

9/5/2018 (Permalink)

Fires and Floods: Dos and Don’ts of Disaster Cleanup

There’s a lot of things you plan to do in the event of a flood, fire, or other disaster. Hopefully you’ll never have to do them.

But what do you do once the unthinkable happens? You probably already have an emergency plan in place for when a disaster is approaching, or even happening at that moment. But what about when it’s over? How on earth are you supposed to get back on your feet after a fire or flood has damaged or destroyed your home? Well, the good news is we can help you rebuild your world. Here are some tips on disaster cleanup from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, The American Red Cross, and Aer Industries, a company that deals with professional disaster restoration.

First, be safe.

If you must evacuate your home, don’t reenter it until a fire or other local official has given the OK. If your home was severely damaged, wait for a contractor to evaluate it and, if necessary, shore up damaged areas before you return.

“Water or fire damage in a building can cause more than surface-deep damage,” said the Aer Industries team, in an e-mail.

After a fire, the fire department should ensure utilities are safe to use or disconnected. Don’t reconnect utilities, FEMA recommended. Standing water and electricity is a bad combination, so make sure the power’s off before you enter a flooded area.

https://beprepared.com/blog/21572/fires-floods-dos-donts-disaster-cleanup/

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Tropical Storm Gordon

9/4/2018 (Permalink)

Tropical Storm Gordon threatens Gulf Coast, hurricane warning in place

Tropical Storm Gordon continued to gain strength Tuesday morning and is expected to become a hurricane by the time it hits the central U.S. Gulf Coast, including coastal Mississippi -- just as the hurricane season reaches its peak period.

Voluntary evacuation orders were issued Monday for parts of Louisiana for residents in areas outside the levee protection system. Gov. John Bel Edwards declared a state of emergency Monday and said 200 National Guard troops will be deployed to southeastern Louisiana.

The National Hurricane Center said at 11 a.m. ET that the storm was centered 145 miles east-southeast of the Mississippi River. Maximum sustained winds were clocked at 65 mph. After making landfall, it is expected to charge inland over the lower Mississippi Valley on Wednesday.

"Tropical Storm Gordon is forecast to intensify to a minimal hurricane before making landfall near Mississippi tonight before midnight," Fox News Senior Meteorologist Janice Dean said Tuesday. "Luckily the storm will be a quick mover lessening impacts from being a prolonged event."

The hurricane warning was placed into effect for the area stretching from the mouth of the Pearl River in Mississippi to the Alabama-Florida border. As much as 8 inches of rain could fall in some parts of the Gulf states through late Thursday.

"Heavy rain will accompany Gordon along its track, spreading an extensive swath of 3 to 6 inches will locally higher amounts," Dean said. "Severe thunderstorms will also be likely over parts of the Gulf Coast with damaging winds and isolated tornadoes."

http://www.foxnews.com/us/2018/09/04/tropical-storm-gordon-threatens-gulf-coast-hurricane-warning-in-place.html

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Water Damage Restoration & Clean Up Checklist

8/31/2018 (Permalink)

Water Damage Restoration & Clean Up Checklist

For Homes, Businesses, Schools & More…

Flood waters are not clean water; therefore, most porous building materials must be removed and replaced with new materials.

Caution!

Inspect for structural and electrical damage from outside to determine if it is safe to enter.
Electrical safety is extremely important in floods. Check for fire hazards and gas leaks. Use battery-powered light sources.
Never mix chlorine bleach with ammonia or vinegar.
Wear sturdy shoes, rubber gloves, and eye protection.
Be watchful for fire ants, snakes, or other animals.
If mold is present, wear a respirator that can filter spores.

First Steps

Make sure that everyone is out of danger of new flood crests, fire, and falling buildings. Assume flood water and flooded materials are contaminated.

https://agrilifeextension.tamu.edu/solutions/water-damage-restoration-clean-up-checklist/

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HURRICANE SEASON IS COMING TO LIFE

8/29/2018 (Permalink)

Weather models have flipped the switch': Hurricane season coming to life in the Atlantic

The sleeping giant may be about to awaken.

Hurricane activity in the Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea and Gulf of Mexico is forecast to ramp up over the next couple of weeks. "Weather models have flipped the switch on the Atlantic hurricane season and see multiple areas of development possible starting mainly this weekend," weather.us meteorologist Ryan Maue said.

One storm could spin up in the Caribbean over the next couple of days and potentially affect Florida over the Labor Day weekend. Looking further ahead, "there is the potential for two or three tropical features spinning over the Atlantic by the second weekend in September," AccuWeather meteorologist Dan Kottlowski said.

The next tropical storm or hurricane in the Atlantic basin will be called Florence.

One of the reasons for the predicted uptick in activity is that wind shear, which tends to rip apart developing hurricanes, appears to be decreasing. "There are signs now that wind shear may drop over a significant part of the Atlantic basin over the next couple of weeks," according to AccuWeather meteorologist Bernie Rayno.

However, it's still too early to predict exactly where or when any storm might form or whether a storm will affect land areas.

https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2018/08/29/hurricane-season-coming-life-atlantic/1132669002/

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What to know about Cleaning Commercial Buildings

8/28/2018 (Permalink)

Cleaning Flooded Buildings:

This Fact Sheet was developed to help building owners, operators, contractors, and volunteer assistance groups deal with the challenges of working in structures that were not fully cleaned and dried shortly after the flooding. Remember that when first returning to a flood-damaged building, responders should follow the initial precautions and restoration steps detailed in the FEMA Recovery Advisory, The ABC’s of Returning to Flooded Buildings (Appendix E of FEMA 549, 2005). When a flooded home has not been cleaned and dried within a few weeks of the flood event, mold contamination should be expected, and specific steps are needed to clean and restore the home. Basic cleaning and drying information is presented in the FEMA Recovery Advisory Initial Restoration for Flooded Buildings (FEMA 549, 2005), which specifies five steps for post-flood building restoration, including (1) air out, (2) move out, (3) tear out, (4) clean out, and (5) dry out. This Fact Sheet builds on the last two of these steps and assumes that the majority of the muck-out and gutting process has been completed and the home is ready for cleaning and drying. Key Issues • Floodwaters carry a variety of contaminants such as bacteria, oil, heavy metals, and pesticides. While first responders’ initial evaluations of Hurricane Sandy floodwaters indicated that exposure to such items are below current limits for safe occupancy, proper cleaning and preparation for rebuilding is critical to protect workers and occupants from both short-term hazards and long-term risk. • Other hazards are present in addition to the substances brought in with the floodwaters, especially in homes that were not dried out within a week of the flooding. Safety issues related to wet mechanical and electrical systems, exposure to lead and asbestos released from building materials, and mold growth need to be addressed. • Mold is a serious health hazard if the home is reoccupied without proper cleaning. Although a variety of products and techniques can reduce and control mold, the cleaning and drying process described in this Fact Sheet also helps to remove other floodwater contaminants. Personal Safety Flooded buildings can pose a number of health and safety risks, for both individuals who wish to maintain occupancy and those who work to repair them. Eliminating hazards is the best way to protect occupants and workers; however, until conditions can be returned to normal, anyone working in a flooded building should use appropriate personal safety equipment and take appropriate safety precautions.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library-data/1381405548275-ec9f9b9de186f1874b92ecda6c33182b/SandyFactsheet1CleaningFloodedBldgs_508_FINAL2.pdf

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Hurricane Lane has a successor

8/27/2018 (Permalink)

TROPICAL STORM MIRIAM PATH: HAWAII'S HURRICANE LANE HAS A SUCCESSOR

Thankfully, Miriam is not likely to come near Hawaii. Although its current path is expected to track west until Wednesday, Miriam will then begin heading north. At its closest, it should be around 600 miles east of Hawaii.

Tropical storms are upgraded to hurricanes once they exceed wind speeds of 74 miles per hour. Miriam is traveling at a speed of around 14 mph. At the time of this writing, there were no warnings in place for the tropical storm.

Just days after Hawaii appeared to avoid the worst from Hurricane Lane, a new tropical storm has formed in the Pacific.

Tropical Storm Miriam has formed about 2,000 miles east of Hawaii, with maximum wind speeds of around 60 miles per hour. According to the National Hurricane Center (NRC), Miriam is strengthening and is expected to turn into a hurricane on Monday night.

“Miriam's cloud pattern and overall convective organization have continued to improve, with a tight comma-cloud pattern now evident in infrared imagery,” the NRC said in a report. “Steady strengthening still appears likely for the next couple of days.”

https://www.newsweek.com/tropical-storm-miriam-path-hawaiis-hurricane-lane-has-successor-1091196

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Hurricane Lane brings over 31 inches of rain to the Big Island

8/24/2018 (Permalink)

Hurricane Lane churns toward Hawaii, Big Island has already seen over 31 inches of rain

As Hurricane Lane lurches north, the Category 3 storm has already dumped more than 31 inches of rain on Hawaii's Big Island, bringing catastrophic flooding.

The life-threatening flooding could even lead to landslides or mudslides.

Rainfall rates in the outer bands of the hurricane may reach 1 to 3 inches per hour, meaning flash flood watches will remain in effect through late Friday.

Lane is expected to remain a hurricane for the next 12 to 24 hours but increasing wind shear could weaken the storm more quickly over the next two to three days.

The storm is forecast to pull away from Hawaii by late Saturday.

https://abcnews.go.com/US/extreme-flooding-reported-hurricane-lane-nears-hawaii/story?id=57374083

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Dissecting Biohazard Cleanup

8/23/2018 (Permalink)

Dissecting Biohazard Cleanup: Understanding the Process and Reducing Risk.

When compared to a fire or water loss, property damage resulting from a suicide, murder or unattended death poses greater risk and complexity for the adjuster, the biohazard cleanup company, and of course, the policyholder. Many cleaning and restoration companies will offer bioremediation services, but only those that specialize in this area truly understand the science and intricacies of the bioremediation and decontamination process. In order to minimize risk for the insurance carrier and ensure the safety of the policy holder, it’s important to realize the inherent challenges of bioremediation and the processes and standards that every biohazard cleanup professional must adhere to.

https://www.claimsjournal.com/news/national/2013/10/22/238753.htm

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here 24/7 365, for all of your restoration needs. Call us today at 817-557-1447, we are waiting to serve you!

When you think you have mold?

8/22/2018 (Permalink)

What to Do If Your House Has Mold (Or You Think It Does)

If you do have mold. Don't panic yet. This may not be a major problem. As noted, all homes have some mold. If it's a small area, generally less than 10 square feet, and not that this is a recommendation, but you may be able to do it yourself or hire a handyman to come in and clean it. Websites from RemoveMoldGuide.com to Good Housekeeping articles explain the process, which basically entails treating areas of mold with a mixture of 1 part chlorine bleach and 15 parts water while wearing goggles and making sure you're in a well-ventilated room.

But you may need to hire the professionals. Lynn Munroe, who owns a public relations company in New City, New York, says that about 10 years ago, her youngest son, then 8 or 9 years old, had an unexplained stomach illness, and his asthma was getting worse. Munroe had taken him to numerous doctors, all of whom had no idea what was wrong.

It turned out the problem was with a dehumidifier in the basement. It was attached to the pipes behind the wall, to keep the basement dry. Unfortunately, the pipe apparently became disconnected from the drain pipe behind the wall, and for some time, had been dripping behind the wall.

"Next to where it was dripping was a cedar storage closet with my kids' old clothes that I was saving for my sister's kids," Munroe says. "I opened up that door one day and the inside of the closet was filled with black mold. The wall of that closet leaned up against my sons' playroom – and his TV where he spent countless hours with his brother playing video games. Air tests revealed a really bad mold problem not only in the closet but in the air."

Twenty-four hours later, Munroe says, "hazmat suits came and demolished my completely finished basement."

https://loans.usnews.com/what-to-do-if-your-house-has-mold-or-you-think-it-does

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Hurricane Lane

8/21/2018 (Permalink)

Hurricane Lane, a major hurricane, could turn toward Hawaii this week

Another hurricane is threatening to impact Hawaii this week, as dangerous Category 3 Hurricane Lane approaches the Central Pacific island chain just two weeks after Hurricane Hector passed the islands.

Lane has maximum winds of 125 mph (201 km/h) and is located about 600 miles (965 km) southeast of Hawaii's big island.The storm is currently moving westward at 14 mph (22 km/h) and should continue to move west over the next day or so. But forecast models are indicating that Lane will turn in a more northerly direction by late Tuesday and Wednesday, which could put it on track to bring significant impacts to the islands.There has been a significant jump to the north in the forecast models over the past 24 hours, bringing the Hawaiian Islands squarely into the five-day forecast cone issued by the Central Pacific Hurricane Center in Honolulu. Track the storm hereThe National Weather Service in Hawaii has already issued a Tropical Storm Watch for the southern and western portions of the Big Island's coastline."Strong winds associated with Hurricane Lane may impact waters south of the Big Island as early as Wednesday morning, with rough seas and swells expected to increase Tuesday night," according to the NWS.https://www.cnn.com/2018/08/20/us/hawaii-hurricane-lane-wxc/index.html SERVPRO of North Arlington is here 24/7 365 for all of your restoration needs

After the Fire! Returning to Normal

8/17/2018 (Permalink)

After the Fire! Returning to Normal A fire will change your life in many ways. Knowing where to begin and who can help you is important. The U.S. Fire Administration hopes you find this information useful in your journey to return tonormal. What to Expect A fire in a home can cause serious damage. The building and many of the things in your home may have been badly damaged by flames, heat, smoke and water. You will find that things the fire did not burn up are now ruined by smoke and soggy with water used to put out the flames. Anything that you want to save or reuse will need to be carefully cleaned. The firefighters may have cut holes in the walls of the building to look for any hidden flames. They may even have cut holes in the roof to let out the heat and smoke. Cleanup will take time and patience. If your home had a home fire sprinkler system, you will find little damage from flames, heat, smoke and water. If you plan to rebuild your home, now is the time to think about installing sprinklers.

https://www.usfa.fema.gov/downloads/pdf/publications/fa_46.pdf

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Flood Cleanup to Protect Indoor Air Quality

8/16/2018 (Permalink)

Flood Cleanup to Protect Indoor Air Quality

During a flood cleanup, the indoor air quality in your home or office may appear to be the least of your problems. However, failure to remove contaminated materials and to reduce moisture and humidity can present serious long-term health risks. Standing water and wet materials are a breeding ground for microorganisms, such as viruses, bacteria and mold. They can cause disease, trigger allergic reactions and continue to damage materials long after the flood.

Replacing Your Flooring after a Flood

If you are repairing your home or building after a flood or hurricane, to prevent mold growth you should be sure your foundation is dry before you replace the flooring. The American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) issued a standard which describes an easy way to check if your concrete slab is dry enough to replace the flooring. The basic approach is to fasten the edges of a clear piece of plastic sheeting to a concrete slab, and wait for approximately 16 hours. If moisture is visible on the plastic sheeting, it is still too wet to replace the flooring.

https://www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq/flood-cleanup-protect-indoor-air-quality

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here 24/7 365, for all of your restoration needs.

What is Biohazard remediation?

8/15/2018 (Permalink)

What is biohazard remediation?

Biohazard remediation contractors are often referred to as crime scene cleaners, but the job entails much more than cleaning up after a death. Since the contractors are tasked with removing any type of biohazardous waste, they often get called to the scene of car wrecks, fights and accidents in the workplace. Additionally, biohazard cleaners will remove animal infestations, clean up animal feces and homes where hoarding has occurred.

A biohazard remediation contractor is not a coroner, and will not remove a body from the scene of a death. Instead, the contractor will come in after the coroner has removed the body and restore the scene to its original condition. The job revolves around containing the biological matter, preventing it from spreading and eliminating it completely.

When to call a biohazard remediation service

A biohazard remediation contractor should be called for the following situations:

• Deaths in the home or workplace

• Gross filth removal

• Trauma scenes

• Car accidents

• Feces removal

• Animal infestations

• Hoarding removal

• Human decomposition

https://www.angieslist.com/research/biohazard-remediation/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here 24/7 365 for all of your restoration needs.

How to make a fire escape plan

8/14/2018 (Permalink)

How to make a home fire escape plan

Your ability to get out of your home during a fire depends on advance warning from smoke alarms and advance planning

Fire can spread rapidly through your home, leaving you as little as one or two minutes to escape safely once the smoke alarm sounds. A closed door may slow the spread of smoke, heat and fire. Install smoke alarms in every sleeping room and outside each separate sleeping area. Install alarms on every level of the home. Pull together everyone in your household and make a plan. Walk through your home and inspect all possible exits and escape routes. Households with children should consider drawing a floor plan of your home, marking two ways out of each room, including windows and doors.

https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/By-topic/Safety-in-the-home/Escape-planning

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here 24/7 365 for all of your restoration needs.

4 things seen in the tropics this past week

8/13/2018 (Permalink)

4 Interesting Things We Saw in the Tropics in the Past Week

At a Glance

Hector was a major hurricane in the northeastern Pacific longer than any other hurricane on record in that basin.
Tropical Storm Debby became the fourth named storm of the 2018 Atlantic hurricane season.
Four named tropical cyclones were active at once in the eastern half of the Pacific Ocean.
Typhoon Shanshan scraped parts of mainland Japan.

Several interesting things caught our eye in the tropics in the past week, including Hurricane Hector's length of time as major hurricane in the northeastern Pacific Ocean, Tropical Storm Debby's formation in the Atlantic Ocean, an active eastern half of the Pacific Ocean and Typhoon Shanshan's scrape with Japan.

https://weather.com/storms/hurricane/news/2018-08-11-interesting-things-we-saw-in-the-tropics-early-august

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7 Predicted Hurricanes

8/10/2018 (Permalink)

Atlantic Could Spawn Up to 7 Hurricanes in the 2018 Storm Season

With four storms already in the books, the Atlantic is expected to produce a total of nine to 13 named storms during the six-month hurricane season that ends Nov. 30, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration said.

That’s down from the 10 to 16 systems of tropical-storm strength or greater the agency that oversees the National Weather Service called for in May. Of the total announced Thursday, four to seven could become hurricanes, with only one, or perhaps even none, becoming a major system with winds of 111 miles per hour or more. A storm is named when winds reach at least 39 mph.

“All of these numbers are lower than we predicted in May,” Gerry Bell, hurricane forecaster with the U.S. Climate Prediction Center.

http://fortune.com/2018/08/09/atlantic-hurricane-season-2018/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here 24/7 365, waiting to serve you with all of your restoration needs.

What to do if you smell or see mold in your home or business

8/9/2018 (Permalink)

What to do if you see or smell mold in your home

The most important step is to identify the source(s) of moisture, which result in mold growth, and make repairs to stop them. If you only clean up the mold and do not fix the moisture problem, most likely the mold growth will recur. If the source of the moisture is related to a building failure or fault, such as a burst pipe or leaking roof, a professional contractor should be consulted. In instances where the moisture source does not appear to be related to leaks, floods, structural faults or rising damp, it is most likely due to condensation. If you do not see mold growth but smell a musty odor, mold may be growing underneath or behind water-damaged materials, such as walls, carpeting, or wallpaper.

Once the source of the moisture has been identified and fixed, you need to decide if removing the mold from the affected areas is something that can be done without professional assistance. If the mold growth was caused by sewage back-up or other contaminated water, potential pathogens may be present and the work should be performed by a professional contractor that has experience in cleaning buildings damaged by contaminated water.

If the mold growth is due to condensation or small-scale leak and is limited to a small area (fewer than ten square feet), you can probably do the work yourself following guidelines such as those that have been prepared by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation and AIHA. On hard surfaces, such as countertops and furniture, use detergent and water to wash mold off and then dry completely. The use of biocides or chemical disinfectants is not recommended as these may be hazardous to occupants. Moldy porous or absorbent materials, such as ceiling tiles, wallboard and carpeting should be removed and replaced. People cleaning mold should wear rubber gloves, goggles and an approved respirator to protect against breathing airborne spores. An N95 respirator would be appropriate for most cleanup projects, provided that you are medically capable of wearing a respirator. If you have health concerns, you should consult your doctor before doing any mold cleanup.

Over the past decade or so, the industry has given rise to many individuals and companies who tout themselves as experts and certified in various aspects of mold investigation and remediation, but who may have little or no practical experience. If you choose to hire a consultants to help identify your problem, or a contractors to perform the cleanup in your home, make sure that they have specific work experience in dealing with and cleaning up mold, and check their references.

https://www.aiha.org/publications-and-resources/TopicsofInterest/Hazards/Pages/Facts-About-Mold.aspx

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here 24/7 365, for all of your restoration needs

4 General Bio-hazardous Waste Categories

8/8/2018 (Permalink)

Biohazardous Waste Categories

There are 4 general categories of biohazardous wastes based on the physical form of the waste. Each form must be segregated, identified, decontaminated and disposed of in an appropriate manner for the form in order to minimize occupational exposure and environmental release risks.

Biohazardous waste in any form should not be left untreated and unsecured in areas that are accessible to the public (i.e., left in hallways). Only lab personnel should remove treated biohazardous waste from the lab area and transport it to waste holding areas for final disposal.

The Biohazardous Waste Categories are:

1. SOLID BIOHAZARDOUS WASTE (non-sharps)

2. LIQUID BIOHAZARDOUS WASTE

3. BIOHAZARDOUS SHARPS

4. PATHOLOGICAL WASTE

https://biosafety.utk.edu/waste/

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Subtropical Storm Debby

8/7/2018 (Permalink)

As the 2018 hurricane season enters its busiest months, conditions remain very active in the Pacific.

In the Atlantic, a low-pressure system that had a 20 percent chance for development Monday grew into Subtropical Storm Debby Tuesday morning.

Hurricane season runs from June 1 through Nov. 30.

Subtropical Storm Debby formed in the North Atlantic late Tuesday.

Location: 1,160 miles west of the Azores
Maximum sustained winds: 40 mph
Movement: north at 16 mph

At 11 a.m., the center of Subtropical Storm Debby was located near 1,160 miles west of the Azores.

https://www.tcpalm.com/story/weather/hurricanes/2018/08/07/hurricanes-hector-john-churn-pacific-atlantic-system-has-50-chance-development/921480002/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here 24/7 365, so call us today at 817-557-1447. SERVPRO of North Arlington is waiting to serve you with all of your restoration needs.

Mildew & Mold

8/6/2018 (Permalink)

The Problem with mold mildew and molds are fungi - simple microscopic organisms that thrive anywhere there is a moist environment. Molds are a necessary part of the environment; without them, leaves would not decay and aspects of soil enrichment could not take place. It is their ability to destroy organic materials, however, that makes mold a problem for people - in our homes and in our bodies. Mildew (mold in early stage) and molds grow on wood products, ceiling tiles, cardboard, wallpaper, carpets, drywall, fabric, plants, foods, insulation, decaying leaves and other organic materials. Mold growths, or colonies, can start to grow on a damp surface within 24 to 48 hours. They reproduce by spores - tiny, lightweight “seeds”- that travel through the air. Molds digest organic material, eventually destroying the material they grow on, and then spread to destroy adjacent organic material. In addition to the damage molds can cause in your home, they can also cause mild to severe health problems. See the HEALTH section to check for possible moldrelated health problems. Mold in Your home? If your home has water damage due to - • flooding, • sewage back-up from flooding in the area, • plumbing or roof leaks, • damp basement or crawl space, • overflows from sinks or bathtub, or • high humidity: steam cooking, dryer vents, humidifiers, mildew and mold will develop within 24-48 hours of water exposure. Even worse, it will continue to grow until steps are taken to eliminate the source of moisture, and effectively deal with the mold problem.

https://www.fema.gov/pdf/rebuild/recover/fema_mold_brochure_english.pdf

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here 24/7 365 to serve you with all of your restoration needs.

What to do when you find water damage

8/3/2018 (Permalink)

If your house is flooded or damaged by a leak or overflow of water, the repairs can be extensive and expensive. Here’s what you can do to help fix the problem.

It’s too late. The sump pump stopped working, and now the basement’s flooded. Or, you didn’t realize the upstairs toilet was overflowing until you noticed water seeping through the ceiling. Whatever the cause of the unexpected flood, there are certain steps to take (and ones to avoid!) that will help minimize the damage.

***Shut off the water***

It might seem obvious, but in a sodden moment of “Oh crap!” and a rush to soak it up, you might forget to locate the source of the leaking water and turn it off.

Protect the home

Once the water is shut off, your responsibility is to protect the home from further damage. Place buckets in rooms with active leaks, and move valuable and light furniture to a safe place. Use a tarp in the affected area if necessary.

Call in a pro

Don’t do this!

A pool of standing water in your house might cause you to panic — which is understandable — but whatever actions you take, avoid messing with anything electric.

Insurance coverage

https://www.angieslist.com/articles/how-minimize-water-damage-your-home.htm

SERVPRO of north Arlington is here 24/7 365 for all of your restoration needs, call us today we would love to serve you 817-557-1447.

6 Tips

8/2/2018 (Permalink)

You may think a house fire will never happen to you. But what if it does? Are you prepared?

Figuring out what to do after a home fire can be a very stressful and overwhelming process, and it can be hard to decide what to do first. With a little help from your insurance agent, though, you may be able to settle your claim more quickly and get your life back to normal.

Here are the six things you should do after a home fire.

1. Call your insurance agent immediately.

2. Ask about restoration companies that can help with cleaning up soot, boarding up windows, and other construction.

3. Separate damaged property from undamaged property.

4. Save undamaged property from further destruction.

5. Cooperate fully with the insurance company’s investigation.

6. Find somewhere to stay if you can’t live in your home.

https://blog.equifax.com/credit/six-things-you-need-to-do-after-a-house-fire/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here 24/7 365 for all of your restoration needs. Call us today at 817-557-1447, we're waiting to serve you!

Tips for fire safety

8/1/2018 (Permalink)

The National Fire Protection Association has announced the theme for its Fire Prevention Week 2018 campaign:Look. Listen. Learn. Be aware – fire can happen anywhere.

Through the annual campaign, set for Oct. 7-13 this year, NFPA aims to raise awareness of “three basic but essential steps to take to reduce the likelihood of having a fire.” Those steps are:
LOOKfor possible fire hazards in your home and eliminate them.
LISTENfor your home’s smoke alarms. Know that you may have only minutes to get out if a fire breaks out.
LEARNtwo ways out of each room of your home. Exits should be easy to access and free of clutter. After leaving the home, go to your family’s designated meeting spot, established when you set up ahome fire escape plan.

NFPA provides resources, including community posters, for the public to use to educate others about home fire safety. For kids, the campaign has activity pages and Simon, a character whoshares messages about fire safety.

http://www.safetyandhealthmagazine.com/articles/17212-fire-prevention-week-2018-look-listen-learn

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here for all of you restoration needs.

Chance of scattered downpours

7/31/2018 (Permalink)

DAILY TROPICAL UPDATE: Tropical moisture coming to Houston this weekend

Meteorologist Travis Herzog says there are no tropical threats to the Gulf over the next five days as more dust from Africa blows across the Atlantic basin.

A pocket of moisture over the northwest Caribbean Sea and southeast Gulf will blow right into Texas this weekend, bringing a chance for scattered downpours.

July will end on a quiet note in the Atlantic, but Travis says historically over 90% of all hurricane activity occurs after August 10th.

Hurricane season ends the last day of November, but it typically winds down for Texas by mid-October as fall fronts cool off the Gulf and steer storms toward Florida and the Atlantic Ocean.

http://abc13.com/weather/daily-tropical-update-tropical-moisture-coming-to-houston-this-weekend/3548191/

Call SERVPRO of North Arlington at 817-557-1447. SERVPRO of North Arlington is here 24/7 365 for all of your restoration needs.

Fewer storms predicted

7/30/2018 (Permalink)

Atlantic hurricane season forecast changes for the better with fewer storms predicted

Some good news from top hurricane forecasters: The 2018 Atlantic hurricane season should be quieter than normal, according to a new predictionreleased Monday.

Meteorologist Phil Klotzbach and other experts from Colorado State University – regarded as the nation's top seasonal hurricane forecasters – predict 10 named tropical storms will form, of which four will become hurricanes.

That is a sharp decrease from their forecast in April, when they said 7 hurricanes would form. One system, Subtropical Storm Alberto, already formed in May.If the quiet forecast comes to fruition, 2018 will be a welcome relief after the destructive 2017 season, which saw monsters like Hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria tear paths of death and destruction across the Caribbean and the U.S.

https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2018/07/03/hurricane-season-2018-forecast/755215002/

SERVPRO of North Arlington is Here 24/7 365 for all of your restoration needs.

Lunar Eclipse tonight

7/27/2018 (Permalink)

The blood moon lunar eclipse is here (and so is Mars)

The longest total lunar eclipse of the century arrives Friday night, showcasing a blood moon for most of the Eastern Hemisphere. Coincidentally, Mars is also at its brightest, putting two bright red objects in our sky.

The lunar eclipse happens during daylight hours for those in the Western Hemisphere, so people in North America will miss it.Lunar eclipses can occur only during a full moon, and this one is extra special because it's also the blood moon. The moon will be in perfect alignment with the sun and Earth on Friday, with the moon on the opposite side of the Earth from the sun. The totality of this lunar eclipse will last about anhour and 43 minutes, but a partial eclipse before and after the total phase means the moon will spend nearly four hours crossing the Earth's shadow. https://www.cnn.com/2018/07/27/world/blood-moon-lunar-eclipse-july/index.html SERVPRO of North Arlington is here to serve you 24/7 365, so call us today at 817-557-1447 for all of your restoration needs.

Don't postponed your fire restoration

7/26/2018 (Permalink)

When a fire occurs in a home, the aftermath can seem overwhelming, and if fire restoration is postponed, the destruction from smoke damage can become even worse. The longer you wait to address the damage, the more repairs you'll have to fix - which means you'll most likely have a larger bill for damages when all is said and done. You can avoid costly repairs and long-term issues if you make fire damage restoration a priority and follow the steps you'll need to get your home back to normal as soon as possible.

Prolonged Smoke Damage

Fire damage is tricky because some signs are apparent—such as discoloration on walls and ceilings and dark stains from smoke on surfaces—but others are not, such as odors trapped in hidden places. Air conditioner vents, the space behind walls and the outside walls of your home are all areas where ash and soot can be deposited and continue to cause damage if they aren't taken care of in a timely manner.

https://www.resolvebylowes.com/guidance/fire/why-immediate-fire-damage-restoration-is-so-important/115003354947

Call SERVPRO of North Arlington at 817-557-1447. SERVPRO of North Arlington is here 24/7 for all of your restoration needs.

What to do when a pipe bursts. .

7/25/2018 (Permalink)

North Arlington residents SERVPRO of North Arlington is always here to help.

4 Steps to Take When a Pipe Bursts

No one can deny that owning a home is a major expense, especially if it’s a mature model. When it comes to a busted water pipe, the damage can be serious for your home, your possessions, and your health if the mess is not cleaned up properly.

There are four steps to take when a pipe bursts in your home.

1. Stop the water

2. Locate the broken pipe and inspect the damage

3. Repair the burst pipe

4. Bring in a professional drying crew

https://www.boboates.com/4-steps-to-take-when-a-pipe-bursts/

Let SERVPRO serve you today. Burst pipes can cause a lot of unwanted damage, but luckily SERVPRO of North Arlington is only a call away 817-557-1447. We are waiting to serve you in all of your restoration needs.

Don't wait until it's too late!

7/24/2018 (Permalink)

North Arlington residents, did you know Water damage is the No. 1 culprit that weakens your home or business foundation and the very core that holds your house or business together?

You’ve heard about core strength for your body right? Well, water damage hits at the core strength of your house or business, eventually causing serious structural damage. Damp wood invites termites and carpenter ants; plus, it causes mold and mildew. Don't wait until it's too late call SERVPRO of North Arlington, we are waiting to help.

https://www.houselogic.com/organize-maintain/home-maintenance-tips/how-to-prevent-water-damage/

Broken pipe? Water leak? Call SERVPRO of North Arlington 817-557-1447 for all of your water restoration needs. SERVPRO is always here, waiting to serve you!

Have a wonderful day and try to keep cool in this Texas heat.

Your SERVPRO family is only a call away.

Hurricane season in full force

7/23/2018 (Permalink)

2018 Atlantic hurricane season.

The 2018 Atlantic Hurricane Season runs from June 1 to November 30. The areas covered include the Atlantic Ocean, Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea.The National Weather Service defines a hurricane as a "tropical cyclone with maximum sustained winds of 74 mph (64 knots) or higher." Hurricanes are rated according to intensity on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale. The 1-5 scale estimates potential property damage.A Category 3 or higher is considered a major hurricane.The National Hurricane Center advises preparedness:A hurricane watch indicates the possibility that a region could experience hurricane conditions within 48 hours.A hurricane warning indicates that sustained winds of at least 74 mph are expected within 36 hours. https://www.cnn.com/2018/05/10/us/2018-atlantic-hurricane-season-fast-facts/index.html

Contact SERVPRO of North Arlington for all of your restoration needs, our North Arlington office is ready to serve you 817-557-1447. With over 1,700 Franchises nationwide, SERVPRO is a leader in the restoration industry and its professionals are faster to any size disaster. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals are available 24 hours/7 days a week and are ready to restore or clean your property.

Water Damage Timeline

5/9/2018 (Permalink)

Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.

Water Damage Timeline

At SERVPRO we understand that time is of the essence when it comes to water damage. Mold can develop within days of the damage occurring. So, it is imperative that all water is extracted as soon as possible.

Here is the water damage timeline to walk you through the steps of an untreated water damage emergency.

Within Minutes

Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.

Hours 1 - 24:

Drywall begins to swell and break down.
Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
Furniture begins to swell and crack.
Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
A musty odor appears.

48 Hours to 1 Week:

Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
Metal begins to rust and corrode.
Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
Paint begins to blister.
Wood flooring swells and warps.
Serious biohazard contamination is possible.

More Than 1 Week:

Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.

6 Ways To Save Money & Water This Spring!

5/2/2018 (Permalink)

6 Ways To Save Money & Water This Spring!

Turn off the tap while brushing your teeth. Water comes out of the average faucet at 2.5 gallons per minute. Turn off the faucet after you wet your brush, and leave it off until it’s time to rinse.
Turn off the tap while washing your hands. Save a few gallons of water and turn the faucet off after you wet your hands until you need to rinse.
Fix your leaks. Annually Households waste about 1 Trillion Gallons nationwide. Fix leaks and save big!
Re-use your boiled pasta water to water your plants. Instead of dumping the water used to boil your pasta reuse and save!
Cut your showers short. Older shower heads can use as much as 5 gallons of water per minute. Speed things up in the shower for some serious water savings.
Use Vegetable Cooking Water to Water Your Plants. There are tons of nutrients that your plants could benefit from being poured down the drain!

Storm Tips and Tricks

5/1/2018 (Permalink)

Count the number of seconds between seeing lightning and hearing thunder to get an idea of how far away a storm is and how long you still have before

Storm Tips and Tricks

Storms or strong winds can cause a lot of bother and damage, so it pays to be prepared. Count the number of seconds between seeing lightning and hearing thunder to get an idea of how far away a storm is and how long you still have before it arrives. Every three seconds is roughly equivalent to one kilometre.

Take patio furniture, bins, gardening tools and ornaments inside or secure them
Close sunshades and put away parasols
If you’re in the woods, seek shelter in a group of low trees and never stand under a tree standing on its own
You are best protected in a car
Don’t stand in front of an open window
Unplug all electrical devices to prevent them being destroyed if lightning strikes
Disconnect radio and TV cables
Put your car in your garage or under your carport

Prevent hail damage

Park your car in a garage or under a roof
If you have to park your car outside, then protect it with a thick blanket
Protect skylights with a thick blanket or old carpet
Leave your pool cover open instead of closing it

Driving in a storm or hail storm

Look for a safe, covered place and wait for the storm to pass
If you cannot find shelter, then stop in a safe place and wait for the storm or hail storm to pass. This reduces the impact and damage

Thank You To All Of Our Wonderful Administrators!

4/25/2018 (Permalink)

You are an invaluable member of our team! Thank you for all that you do!

Happy National Administrative Professionals' Day!

In honor of National Administrative Professionals' Day. We would like to thank our wonderful office staff. Thank you for your amazing customer service and hard work without you none of this would be possible! Behind every successful team there is an efficient administrative professional! Today is the perfect day to thank you for all of your help and hard work!

We appreciate all of your patience and dedication for taking care of Arlington residents in their time of need! Your service is greatly appreciated and a blessing to us all!

You are an invaluable member of our team!

Thank you for all that you do!

How To Properly Use A Fire Extinguisher

4/19/2018 (Permalink)

If you have the slightest doubt about your ability to fight a fire....EVACUATE IMMEDIATELY!

The following steps should be followed when responding to incipient stage fire:

Sound the fire alarm and call the fire department, if appropriate.
Identify a safe evacuation path before approaching the fire. Do not allow the fire, heat, or smoke to come between you and your evacuation path.
Select the appropriate type of fire extinguisher.
Discharge the extinguisher within its effective range using the P.A.S.S. technique (pull, aim, squeeze, sweep).
Back away from an extinguished fire in case it flames up again.
Evacuate immediately if the extinguisher is empty and the fire is not out.
Evacuate immediately if the fire progresses beyond the incipient stage.

Most fire extinguishers operate using the following P.A.S.S. technique:

PULL... Pull the pin. This will also break the tamper seal.
AIM... Aim low, pointing the extinguisher nozzle (or its horn or hose) at the base of the fire.
NOTE: Do not touch the plastic discharge horn on CO2 extinguishers, it gets very cold and may damage skin.
SQUEEZE... Squeeze the handle to release the extinguishing agent.
SWEEP... Sweep from side to side at the base of the fire until it appears to be out. Watch the area. If the fire re-ignites, repeat steps 2 - 4.

If you have the slightest doubt about your ability to fight a fire....EVACUATE IMMEDIATELY!

The Truth About Mold

4/17/2018 (Permalink)

Over 70% of homeowners are unaware of mold lurking in their walls.

As a homeowner you are vulnerable to certain types of damages such as water and even mold! Mold can develop at anytime, anywhere in the world!

Most homeowners do not inspect their homes for leaks and moisture build up. Even the newest of homes could have excess moisture in even the smallest nooks and crannies.

It is imperative that homeowners prepare themselves for any possible damage to their home.

Here at SERVPRO of North Arlington we believe education is key in preventing any and every possible damage situation.

Do you know the truth about mold? Mold can grow in any environment there are over 100,000 different species of mold. Over 70% of homeowners are unaware of mold lurking in their walls. And 100% of all type of mold have the potential to cause health problems for your family. The symptoms of mold related illness are often confused for the common cold. Mold toxicity symptoms include but are not limited to;

Sneezing
Itching,Watery eyes
Runny Nose/Nasal congestion
Itchy nose, Mouth & Lips
Fatigue/Weakness
Headache/light sensitivity

The truth is mold is everywhere. And by arming yourself with the proper information you can handle any mold situation in your home.

How To Prevent Mold Growth in Your Home...

Check out these easy tips on how to prevent mold growth in your home. And remember prevention is key!

Identify problem areas in your home and correct them.
Dry wet areas immediately. Mold cannot grow without moisture. Don't leave wit items hanging to dry. If you hang dry certain items dry items outside.
Prevent Moisture with Proper Ventilation
Monitor moisture humidity indoors. The EPA recommends keeping indoor humidity between 30 and 60 percent. You can measure humidity with a moisture meter from your local hardware store.
Improve air flow in your home. According to the EPA, as temperatures drop, the air is able to hold less moisture. Without good air flow in your home, that excess moisture may appear on your walls, windows and floors.
Keep mold off household plants.The moist soil in indoor plants is a perfect breeding ground for mold, which may then spread to other areas of your house.

If you are suffering from mold damage on your home call your local SERVPRO of North Arlington at (817)557-1447.

Water Damage Statistics

4/16/2018 (Permalink)

Did you know? About 93 percent of all water damage can be prevented.

At SERVPRO of North Arlington we understand that water damage from the usual wear and tear can occur at anytime. Texas homeowners must be prepared to resolve any damage that may occur in their home. That is why SERVPRO of North Arlington is ready 24 Hours/ 7 days a week with skilled technicians ready to respond to your water emergency.

Here are a few statistics for North Texas Homeowners to bring awareness to water damage in the home.

Water damage in homes typically comes from the following sources:

Frozen pipes
Leaking pipes
Leaky roof
Broken washing machine hose
Plumbing problems
Insulations issues

Usually water damage in the home is not at the forefront of a homeowners mind and is considered a rare occurrence.

Take a look at just how often it does occur with these Water Damage Statistics:

Almost 40 percent of all homeowners have said that they have experienced loss from water damage
About 93 percent of all water damage can be prevented
Water damage is the second most frequently filed insurance claim in the United States
250 gallons of water is released a day due to a 1/8-inch crack in a pipe
About 20 percent of all insurance claims related to water damage of some kind
Billions of dollars in property losses are spent each year as a direct result of water damages

If your experiencing water damage and need help today. Call Your local SERVPRO of North Arlington at (817)557-1447.

Our technicians are standing by to respond to your water emergency now!

A Flood of Emotions

4/4/2018 (Permalink)

When damage strikes our local SERVPRO technicians are ready to respond 24/7!

SERVPRO of North Arlington knows that with every flood comes a flood of emotion. When your home, business or belongings become damaged, you don’t just want things clean, you want your life back!

And that’s where SERVPRO comes in. SERVPRO of North Arlington specialize in flooding and storm damage restoration. Our number one goal is returning damaged areas and items to preloss condition, doing all that we can to help you regain control following a disaster. Our goal is to make it like it never even happened.

SERVPRO of North Arlington has local storm and water damage specialists who get started promptly to get your property dry and back to pre-storm condition. Using advanced equipment and scientific drying techniques, we document the drying process to validate whether your home or business is ready. In addition to our own resources, we have access to equipment and personnel from over 1,700 Franchises across the state and country. We can even call upon our local strategically located Disaster Recovery Teams such as http://www.SERVPROnortharlingtontx.com/water-damage-restoration for catastrophic storms and major events.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – (817)557-1447

Did You Know There Are Three Types of Contaminated Water?

4/4/2018 (Permalink)

If your home or business is suffering from water damage call your local SERVPRO of North Arlington (817)557-1447

At SERVPRO of North Arlington we understand that water damage could strike at anytime. Our local North Arlington technicians are ready to respond to your emergency 24/7!

In the U.S alone it is estimated that over 14,000 homeowners rush to deal with water leak emergencies every day. It is important that you know the source of the damage when you call your local SERVPRO of North Arlington. Because without knowing the source of the damage it is difficult for our technicians to decipher how to assess and repair the damage. To avoid a longer repair time knowing the category and source of the leak or damage is instrumental in restoring your property to pre-disaster condition.

Did You Know There are 3 Types of Contaminated Water?

When your local SERVPRO of North Arlington is called you will be asked a number of questions such as; do you know the source of the damage? How severe is the damage? And with this information we will then categorize the damage type and prepare your repair plan with in minutes!

The Three Types of Contaminated Water

Most home or business owners are unaware that there are three types of contaminated water. These three are broken up into categories depending on the source.

Here are the three types of contaminated water:

Category 1: "Clean Water"- Clean water is from "clean" source such as a broken water line. A category one water damage originates from a source that does not contain waste. This category is less severe as it presents less risks for humans conducting the restoration.
Category 2: "Grey Water"- Grey water is water that may contain bacteria and viruses. Harmful, if consumed by humans and may cause sickness. Examples of category grey water include dishwater, washer water and more.
Category 3: "Black Water"- Black water is extremely unsanitary and harmful to humans. Black water may contain untreated sewage, harsh chemicals and microbes. Examples of black water are sewage backup and flood water.

If left untreated these categories may degrade.It is imperative that water damage is treated immediately. Time is of the essence when a disaster hits. Our local SERVPRO of North Arlington technicians are standing by 24/7 to help!

If your home or business is suffering from water damage call your local SERVPRO of North Arlington (817)557-1447

How Prepared Is your Family for an Emergency?

4/4/2018 (Permalink)

Does Your Family Have an Emergency Plan?

When Disaster Strikes!

Is your family prepared for an emergency?

Disasters can strike at anytime and when they do time is extremely important. At SERVPRO of North Arlington we understand that these situations can be unavoidable. This is why here at SERVPRO of North Arlington we have provided tips for Arlington families to be prepared for emergency situations.

Prepare an Emergency Kit- depending on the type of disaster injuries may be imminent. It is essential in the event of an emergency to have an emergency kit nearby. Have your kit made and in a safe location that is easy to access. Your kit must include items such as first aid kit, flashlights, and non-perishable food items.
Arrange a "Safe Haven"- Plan your emergency exit and arrange a meeting place for your family in case of separation. Be sure that small children are aware of how to exit and where to meet in the event of an emergency.
Keep Extra Supplies on Hand- If you need to escape your home for any reason and you plan to use your vehicle. In an emergency you may not be the only family that needs to evacuate the area. Have your escape route out of the city mapped out. Keep maps in your vehicle with your emergency kit and extra supplies such as gas, jumper cables,batteries, flares and more.
Emergency Etiquette- In emergencies it is imperative that your family remains calm. Although, it may be hard to control your emotions in unpredictable situations it is essential that your family is mentally prepared for all survival situations. Prepare small children for what is to come next. Keeping your family informed may keep everyone calm enough to escape emergency. Go over " Emergency Etiquette",to prepare your family for any situation.

If your North Arlington home is suffering from Storm, Fire or Water Damage call your local SERVPRO of North Arlington at (817)557-1447

Conditions In North Arlington Might Be Right For Mold

4/4/2018 (Permalink)

Mold growth can occur in any home, So, it’s important to keep an eye out for situations that might promote mold activity.

It’s estimated that more than 1 million types of mold exist, yet less than 10 percent have actually been named. This means mold is very common in both indoor and outdoor environments. While mold and humans can sometimes co-exist without issue, there are certain species of mold that can cause health effects for some people.

If the right conditions exist, mold will grow. Those conditions include:

Water - Different mold types require varying amounts of liquid before growth begins.
Temperature - Normal indoor temperatures will promote mold growth.
Time - Initial mold colonizers can take hold within one day after being exposed to an adequate water supply.

Mold growth can occur in any home, so it’s important to keep an eye out for situations that might promote mold activity. Roof/chimney leaks, wet basements, or condensation from ducts that dampen surrounding insulation are just a few examples of issues that make a house a prime target for mold growth.

If you suspect mold in your home, call SERVPRO of North Arlington to assess the situation. We have the knowledge, tools and track record to effectively remediate mold in your home or business.

If you suspect mold, call us today at (817)557-1447

What to Do:

Stay out of affected areas.
Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
Contact SERVPRO of North Arlington for mold remediation services.

Does Your North Arlington Home Have A Mold Problem?

4/4/2018 (Permalink)

In North Arlington, mold can spread through a home in as little as 48 hours.

Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:

Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.
Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.
Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – (817)557-1447.

Jesus Lives!

3/30/2018 (Permalink)

Jesus Lives!

Close your eyes for a second and listen to the sounds around you, listen to the chirping of the birds, the cars driving around, the laughing of children. Now open them and look at the blue sky, look at the vibrancy of color around you, look at the child running around playing, watch life move at such a fast pace. It is because of a sacrifice a man made thousands of years ago that you are now able to do such things. It is because of the love he had for us that we live today. It is because of his mercy and grace that we can walk around enjoy the normalcy of life. Even with all the chaos that has been occurring throughout our country the love of Jesus shines through. Thank you Jesus for your love!

If you are in needing of emergency services after hours/ or during this holiday weekend SERVPRO North Arlington is here to help!

817-557-1447

What should you do when your business floods?

3/27/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of North Arlington specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event.

Imagine waking up in the morning and going about your normal routine. You get out of bed and stretch out the drowsiness. Rub the sleep out of your eyes. Head to the bathroom brush your teeth,wash your face and get ready for the day. And as you're making your coffee you receive a call from the commercial building owner at your business to inform you that a pipe has just burst! And your entire livelihood is covered in water. The floor is up to four inches in water and counting!

What should you do?

Here at SERVPRO of North Arlington we understand that disasters can happen at the drop of a hat or in this case at the burst of a pipe!

Here are a few steps to help guide you through this stressful situation.

Gather your insurance information.

You would be surprised at the number of business owners that do not know their policy details and at disastrous times such as these it is very important to have your insurance information on hand and ready to go!

2.Remain Calm & Call SERVPRO North Arlington

At SERVPRO North Arlington we strive to fully restore the damaged area in a prompt and professional manner. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

Is your home suffering from Fire, Soot or Smoke Damage?

3/27/2018 (Permalink)

Our SERVPRO technicians are standing by to keep things cool!

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.

Smoke and soot facts:

Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of North Arlington will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor.

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions. We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage. We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – (817)557-1447

Phillip's Fire Fiasco!

3/27/2018 (Permalink)

The Martin's Garage. Pre-SERVPRO of North Arlington

A house fire can be especially devastating. In addition to smoke and fire damage, your home may have also suffered from water damage as a result of the firefighting efforts. And even small fires can cause significant smoke and soot damage that affects your entire home.

A Rude Awakening..

Phillip Martin knows this all too well. When he awoke to a house fire on the 21st of December 2017 at 2:00 a.m. "I immediately ran to my daughter's room, pulled her out of bed and ran outside."We got lucky!", Phillip stated. "The fire started in the garage." Which gave me and my wife enough time to get out safely!" Phillip said.

The Martins and their three year old daughter made it out just before the fire spread to the living room.

"Once Firemen arrived. I remember thinking,"What am I going to do now?" Martin stated.

A Sigh of Relief!

Mr. Martin spoke to his insurance company, who then recommended SERVPRO of North Arlington. "Once the firemen had extinguished the fire. I felt both relieved and anxious, but once I called SERVPRO of North Arlington my anxiety began to fade." Phillip expressed.

We assured Mr.Martin that our local SERVPRO North Arlington technicians would be arriving within the hour.

As fire and water restoration specialists, SERVPRO of North Arlington has the specialized training and experience necessary to restore your home back to pre-fire condition.

"Once SERVPRO North Arlington arrived they immediately sprung into action. My family was able to return our home within just two days of the incident! Martin stated.

"Without SERVPRO North Arlington I have no idea what I would have done!

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – (817)557-1447

Emergency Ready Plan.. Are you prepared for the unexpected?

12/22/2017 (Permalink)

The Best Way to Reduce Business Interruption Following a Disaster is to Plan For it NOW.

As many as 50% of businesses may never recover following a disaster, according

to the latest industry research. Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind.

By developing a SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.

Are You Ready?

Preparation is a key component for making it through any size disaster, whether it’s a small water leak, a large fire or an area flood. The best time for planning for such events is not when the event happens, but well before it happens. No one ever plans on a disaster, but you can plan for it. Now is the time to ask yourself, “Are you ready for whatever could happen?”

The SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile is a start up approach that provides the critical information needed to begin mitigation and recovery services. It is designed to serve as a quick reference of important building and contact information. By working with SERVPRO’s Emergency READY Profile, your business will receive the benefit of over 40 years of experience in reducing the impact of any natural or man-made disaster. SERVPRO® is a leader in water and fire damage response and can help you quickly get your property back in working order.

The SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile Advantage

A no cost assessment of your facility.

– This means there is no need to allocate funds, giving you a great value at no cost.

A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency.

– It will only take a little time to complete and will not take you away from current projects.

But it will save a lot of time if ever needed.

A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster.

– This can help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive by having an immediate plan of action.

Establishes SERVPRO North Arlington as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider.

– You have a provider that is recognized as an industry leader and close by.

Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin.

– This saves time so we can begin the work of mitigating the damage which can save you time and money.

Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information.

-Having a quick reference of what to do, how to do it and who to call provides solutions in advance of an emergency so that during the emergency you are “Ready for whatever happens.”

Call Us Today To Get Started! 817-557-1447

SERVPRO at the touch of a fingertip.. ERP Mobile App

12/22/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® Ready Plan Mobile App

Help is at your fingertips.

When fire and water cleanup is needed, getting help is now quicker and easier using the SERVPRO® Ready Plan App. The Ready Plan is an emergency preparedness tool for home and business owners, property managers, risk managers and facility management. It allows for the creation of an Emergency Ready Profile™ containing critical facility information to help speed up response time.

Not only is SERVPRO North Arlington here to assist you when an emergency occurs but we are also here to help to prepare you for an emergency.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

About SERVPRO of North Arlington

SERVPRO of North Arlington specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

817-557-1447

How to handle a fire in a commercial building

12/15/2017 (Permalink)

A fire can be devastating to a commercial business, but after the fire truck and firefighters have left, the real work has just begun. What can a professional fire damage restoration company do for a business with commercial fire damage? We'll find out.

When the firefighters and fire trucks have cleared the building of a commercial fire, a trained fire damage specialist will inspect the site to see what materials were affected by smoke damage or soot damage. The building may not be safe for anyone to work in until a commercial fire damage specialist has started work. For example, the roof may need to be boarded up and spread with tarps for the safety and security of the workers. When there's an electrical fire or fire damage to the electrical system, generators may need to be installed for temporary power. A commercial fire damage company can remove burned trees as well.

A fire hose can pump thousands of gallons of water per minute, and that water will have to be removed before the work of fire restoration can really begin. If the fire sprinkler system does its job, it can stop a lot of fire damage before it occurs. A working fire suppression system is essential to reducing damage, but the fire suppression system can also drench everything, so a lot of water from the fire hoses or fire sprinkler system may need to be removed.

One area that needs to be handled carefully is smoke and soot damage. Soot Damage is a major problem after a commercial fire, discoloring anything close to the flames. Within hours, soot damage can turn fiberglass and appliance finishes yellow. Soot damage can also tarnish metals and cause corrosion. After a few days, the smoke damage will also permanently discolor upholstery, clothing, and walls. The lingering smell of smoke can be reduced by cleaning with the proper detergents or sealing up and removing objects that are too damaged. The sooner commercial fire damage professionals are brought in, the better.

A utility room fire will often require special attention because the fire might have started in the utility room because some utility room fires are caused by storage of flammable chemicals. With the fire extinguished, a utility room fire might have burned important equipment that will need to be repaired or replaced. There also may be an electrical fire in the utility room fire that needs to be dealt with. Smoke damage can also be concentrated in the utility room's small space.

An electrical fire could have burned much of the building, and the fire hoses and fire sprinkler system might have soaked the drywall and insulation, so a fire restoration professional may need to replace it to prevent the growth of mold and mildew. Firefighters do a great job putting out fires, but they can't worry about the damage they leave behind. In some cases, the firefighters might have broken through walls or windows or the fire truck itself might have collided with the building, causing more damage. Fire restoration specialists will need to deal with that, too. The fire restoration professional can also look at the fire suppression system to make sure it will work the next time.

When it comes to hiring a commercial fire damage specialist, it's important to hire the best available. Fire restoration may involve a lot of work, because an electrical fire, soot damage, and smoke damage are all major problems, but the right professionals can take care of them. A fire sprinkler system or fire suppression system is critical to keep a fire from spreading, and a fire truck and a fire hose can save lives, but only a fire restoration professional can get a business running again.

Call SERVPRO North Arlington at 817-557-1447 for more information on fire damage.

Suspect Mold

12/15/2017 (Permalink)

If you see visible mold, do not disturb it. You can inadvertently spread the mold infestation throughout your home. When mold is disturbed, the mold can release microscopic mold spores which become airborne and can circulate inside your home.

What to Do:

Stay out of affected areas.
Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
Contact SERVPRO Grand Prairie for mold remediation services.

What Not to Do:

Don’t touch or disturb the mold.
Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.
Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself.
Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.

About Our Mold Remediation Services

SERVPRO North Arlington specializes in mold cleanup and restoration, in fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business. Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 817-557-1447

Notice a different odor in your home?

12/15/2017 (Permalink)

We are surrounded by mold spores unknowingly every day, but in the right conditions mold can quickly become a problem within our homes. Dealing with mold growth can be overwhelming and frustrating, especially because many people aren’t aware that they have a problem until it is excessive. Recognizing the signs of mold in your house and knowing how to prevent growth can save you time, energy, and money.

First Signs of Mold - Trust Your Nose

Molds produce gases that have an earthy, musty odor. This odor is typically the first noticeable sign that there is a mold problem; however, for someone who has never encountered this smell it can be hard to identify. Many people compare the smell of mold to rotten wood or wet socks.

Typically, this odor is not one that will go away regardless of how many times you light candles, open windows, etc. People will often become “immune” to the smell of mold since they are living with it each day. If you suspect mold go outside for some fresh air before coming back into the house to try and identify any smells. Even if you are unsure that what you are smelling is mold pay attention to your nose. If your nose feels irritated, or if you are sneezing more often in a certain room, your body might be recognizing mold even if you are not.

Once you have recognized the smell of mold in your house, follow the scent until you find the point at which it is strongest. This is most likely the source of your problem. If you only notice the smell when your air conditioning turns on the growth could be occurring within your HVAC.

Visible Signs

The first visible signs of mold may be just a few spots of discoloration on the wall or on the grout between tiles. While small spots like this may not seem too problematic, they show that the conditions in that area are perfect for mold growth and you may have a larger, unseen problem somewhere else.

There are many different types of household molds, and they can vary greatly in color. The most common colors of growths in houses are black, grey, and brown; however, mold can also be white, yellow, or even brighter colors such as blue or green. The only way to truly identify the species of mold in your house is for it to be tested by an industrial hygienist, color is not always indicative of the type of mold.

Mold can grow anywhere and on anything, as long as the conditions are conducive. If you see discolored spots in your home – on walls, floors, furniture, or even books - that are accompanied by other signs of mold, you might have a growth problem.

Certain Conditions Can Also Serve as Signs of Mold

The conditions that allow mold spores to thrive in a house can often serve as signs for growth that you might not be able to see or smell. In order to grow mold needs moisture. Knowing the history of your home, particularly pertaining to previous water damages, is vital when it comes to identifying the rooms in your home that may be displaying signs of mold. Some subtle symptoms of excessive moisture in your home that can lead to mold growth include:

Rust on pipes
Wallpaper or paint peeling
Warping wood
Condensation on walls or floors
A humidity level above 60% inside the home

At SERVPRO North Arlington our professionals have the training and equipment to remediate the mold in your home or business, if you suspect a water damage or mold growth don’t hesitate to call us for 24-hour emergency services at 817-557-1447.

The best way to keep safe during a hurricane is to be prepared

12/15/2017 (Permalink)

While there are a number of other dangerous weather situations that can pop up two of the most severe are hurricanes and tropical storms. These are storms that can cause property damage, flooding and if people are not prepared could cause a loss of life.

Both hurricanes and tropical storms originate in tropical areas and are differentiated by severity. Both have heavy winds and rain. However, hurricanes are generally stronger storms with more rain and stronger wind. Regardless of the severity, they both are dangerous and people need to prepare in the event of being in the path of a strong storm.

In the event of hearing that a hurricane or tropical storm is coming to your area, there are a few things to be prepared in order to remain safe. If you find yourself in the path of a major storm the first thing is to make sure you get inside a secure building. Also, securing any doors and windows in advance of the storm may prevent any injury.

BEFORE A HURRICANE:

Have a disaster plan ready. List SERVPRO Grand Prairie as a contact to assist after the storm has hit, 972-602-1112
Have a pet plan. Before a storm threatens, contact your veterinarian or local humane society for information on preparing your pets for an emergency.

Board up windows.
Bring in outdoor objects that could blow away.
Make sure you know which county or parish you live in.
Know where all the evacuation routes are.
Prepare a disaster supplies kit for your home and car. Have enough food and water for at least 3 days. Include a first aid kit, canned food and a can opener, bottled water, battery-operated radio, flashlight, protective clothing and written instructions on how to turn off electricity, gas, and water.
Have a NOAA weather radio handy with plenty of batteries, so you can listen to storm advisories.
Have some cash handy. Following a hurricane, banks and ATMs may be temporarily closed.
Make sure your car is filled with gasoline.

DURING A HURRICANE:

Stay away from low-lying and flood prone areas.
Always stay indoors during a hurricane, because strong winds will blow things around.
Leave mobile homes and to go to a shelter.
If your home isn’t on higher ground, go to a shelter.
If emergency managers say to evacuate, then do so immediately.

AFTER A HURRICANE:

Stay indoors until it is safe to come out.
Check for injured or trapped people, without putting yourself in danger.
Watch out for flooding which can happen after a hurricane.
Do not attempt to drive in flooding water.
Stay away from standing water. It may be electrically charged from underground or downed power lines.

Don’t drink tap water until officials say it’s safe to do so.

11 Days until Christmas

12/14/2017 (Permalink)

Continuing with our fun Christmas facts:

6. The well-known reason we give presents at Christmas is to symbolize the gifts given to baby Jesus by the three wise men. But it may also stem from the Saturnalia tradition that required revelers to offer up rituals to the gods.

7. Because of its roots in pagan festivals, Christmas was not immediately accepted by the religious. In fact, from 1659 to 1681, it was illegal to celebrate Christmas in Boston. You were fined if you were caught celebrating. 8. Santa Claus comes from St. Nicholas, a Christian bishop living in (what is now) Turkey in the fourth century AD. St. Nicholas had inherited a great deal of wealth and was known for giving it away to help the needy. When sainted, he became the protector of children. 9. After his death, the legend of St. Nicholas spread. St. Nick’s name became Sint-Nicolaas in Dutch, or Sinter Klaas for short. Which is only a hop, skip, and jump to Santa Claus. 10. Santa Claus delivering presents comes from Holland’s celebration of St. Nicholas’ feast day on December 6. Children would leave shoes out the night before and, in the morning, would find little gifts that St. Nicholas would leave them. Source:http://www.etonline.com/news/155454_31_facts_you_didn_t_know_about_christmas

14 Days until Christmas

12/11/2017 (Permalink)

Christmas facts....

1. The Christmas wreath was originally hung as a symbol of Jesus. The holly represents his crown of thorns and the red berries the blood he shed.

2. The three traditional colors of most Christmas decorations are red, green and gold. Red symbolizes the blood of Christ, green symbolized life and rebirth, and gold represents light, royalty and wealth.

3. In Poland spiders are considered to be symbols of prosperity and goodness at Christmas. In fact, spiders and spider webs are often used as Christmas tree decorations. According to legend, a spider wove baby Jesus a blanket to keep him warm.

4.The tradition of hanging stockings comes from a Dutch legend. A poor man had three daughters for whom he could not afford to provide a dowry. St. Nicholas dropped a bag of gold down his chimney and gold coins fell out and into the stockings drying by the fireplace. The daughters now had dowries and could be married, avoiding a life on the streets.

5. “White Christmas”, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer”, “Winter Wonderland”, “The Christmas Song” and “I’ll Be Home for Christmas” plus the melody for “O Holy Night” were all written or co-written by Jews.

Source: http://thefactfile.org/interesting-facts-christmas/

Christmas Countdown... 18 days until CHRISTMAS

12/7/2017 (Permalink)

18 Days until Christmas

Here are some fun facts about Christmas:

1. Christmas supposedly marks the birth of Jesus Christ on December 25. But there is no mention of December 25 in the Bible and most historians actually believe he was born in the spring.

2. December 25 was probably chosen because it coincided with the ancient pagan festival Saturnalia, which celebrated the agricultural god Saturn with partying, gambling, and gift-giving.

3. Many of the popular Christmas traditions today found their roots in Saturnalia: Branches from evergreen trees were used during winter solstice as a reminder of the green plants that would grow in spring when the sun gods grew strong.

4. These evergreen branches became the foundation of our Christmas tree. Germans are thought to be the first to bring “Christmas trees” into their homes at the holidays and decorate them with cookies and lights. 5. The Christmas tree made its way to America in the 1830s but wasn’t popular until 1846, after Germany’s Prince Albert brought it to England when he married Queen Victoria. The two were sketched in front of a Christmas tree and the tradition instantly became popular. Royal fever was real even back then. 6. The well-known reason we give presents at Christmas is to symbolize the gifts given to baby Jesus by the three wise men. But it may also stem from the Saturnalia tradition that required revelers to offer up rituals to the gods. 7. Because of its roots in pagan festivals, Christmas was not immediately accepted by the religious. In fact, from 1659 to 1681, it was illegal to celebrate Christmas in Boston. You were fined if you were caught celebrating. If you are need of commercial carpet cleaning, mitigation services, or duct cleaning before Christmas gets here please feel free to call SERVPRO of North Arlington at 817-557-1447.

Christmas tree safety

12/7/2017 (Permalink)

Did you know that a spark can turn a dry Christmas tree into a torch within 12 seconds?

Christmas tree fires are rare, but they still account for roughly 200 home fires each year, destroying an annual $14 million in the process, the National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA) says. They're deadly, too, killing an average of six people yearly.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission released Christmas tree tips:

Fresh, watered trees are much less likely to catch fire. So when buying a tree, look for branches with vibrant, green needles that don’t come off the branch easily.
Make sure your tree is at least three feet from any heat source, like a fireplace, heat vent or candle.
Water your tree daily.
If you buy an artificial tree, make sure it’s labeled “fire resistant.”
Do not forget to cut off 2 inches from the bottom of the tree to allow it to soak up water.

SERVPRO of North Arlington would like to wish all of our customers and vendors a very Merry Christmas!

If you are need of our services during this holiday season SERVPRO of North Arlington is on call 24/7. Call our office at 817-557-1447. We are here to help!

Are your Allergies in full force? It may be a result of your Christmas Tree

12/7/2017 (Permalink)

Who would have thought that bringing in a real Christmas tree, enjoying the smell, the lights, and décor would cause an increase in your allergies. If you are suffering from the sniffles your REAL Christmas tree could be the cause. Here are the reasons why:

Even though it’s not visibly decaying, it is.
Christmas trees are coniferous softwoods and have a high moisture content.
Mold loves moisture.
The tree may take 6 years to grow before it’s cut.
In that period it can collect all sorts of mold, dust pollens and allergens.

SERVPRO of North Arlington is certified through the State of Texas to perform Mold remediation services. Though it is highly unlikely that your homes structure be affected with mold spores due to your real Christmas tree a previous water damage or a constant leak could cause potential damage. If you are in need of mold remediation services we would be more than happy to assist you.

Jesus Birth

12/6/2017 (Permalink)

"For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; and the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace." Isaiah 9:6

As the holiday season comes into full swing we begin to contemplate on the true meaning of Christmas. Yes, it is a joyful time of giving, family, friendships, and gatherings but the true meaning of Christmas is the birth of a precious, humble, loving baby. A baby who becomes a man . A man without sin, a man who will lead billions, a man who knows no wrong, a man who is our counselor, a man who loves unconditional, a man who died for our sins. During this season we are reminded that it is not about receiving but about giving. From everyone at SERVPRO of North Arlington we would like to wish you a very Merry Christmas.

During this season we tend to get under the stress of making sure everything is perfect for our family and it is the worst time to come home to a water damage. if you are need of water mitigation services please feel free to contact us at 817-557-1447.

Freezing temperature

12/6/2017 (Permalink)

With the sudden change in temperature meteorologists are predicting that we could be experiencing freezing temperatures soon. With this in mind it is wise to be proactive to keep your pipes from freezing and then bursting.

To prevent water pipes from freezing in cold weather:

Open cabinet doors under sinks located on outside walls.
Leave hot and cold water dripping in faucets.
Put foam covers over outdoor spigots.
Insulate water pipes with foam pipe insulation.

In the case that we do encounter freezing temperatures and you faced with a broken pipe please feel free to contact us to help. SERVPRO of North Arlington will be more than happy to assist you in minimizing the damages to your home or business.

SERVPRO North Arlington: 817-557-1447.

Happy Birthday Cindy!

8/18/2017 (Permalink)

Happy Birthday Cindy!

We would like to wish Cindy Soto a very Happy Birthday! Thank you for all your hard work and for being such a pleasure to work with. Cindy has been with our company for 1 year. She is a very valuable employee and is always ready to help. We are very excited to announce that we will have a new SERVPRO baby soon, Baby A will be here before we know it!

About SERVPRO of North Arlington

SERVPRO of North Arlington specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Trapped water? Let us help remove it!

8/18/2017 (Permalink)

This picture is the wall cavity in the bomb shelter that was full of water/ sludge.

Customer called and stated that she had water trapped in between a wall cavity inside her bomb shelter (yes a bomb shelter!) and she needed professional help. SERVPRO North Arlington was onsite within 30 minutes to help extract the water that way her plumber could cut out walls and find where the water was coming from. Our customer was very pleased with our promptness and ability to assist her in situation that she had no idea how to fix.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today - 817-557-1447

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of North Arlington has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

Your name and contact information
Your insurance information (if applicable)
The street address of the water-damaged home or business
When did the flooding or water damage occur?
What caused the water damage (if known)?
Is there electricity available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO of North Arlington

Arlington Smoke and Soot Cleanup

8/18/2017 (Permalink)

Smoke and Soot Damage Can Cause a Pervasive Odor in Your Arlington Home

Smoke and soot facts:

Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor.

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – 817-557-1447

Do you have a fire in your home?

8/18/2017 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot facts:

Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of South Arlington will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor.

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – 817-557-1505

Tropical Cindy is on it's way!

6/21/2017 (Permalink)

Are you ready for STORM?

With tropical storms and hurricanes starting to show face it is very important that we are prepared and educated on how to keep safe. Though we will not be affected here locally in the DFW area it is still very important that we are informed what is happening in every storm situation.

First and foremost keeping yourself informed with the type of storm that is being projected is very important. So let’s see what they are saying about Tropical Storm Cindy.

Tropical Storm Cindy continues to track through the northwest Gulf of Mexico, bringing potentially life-threatening flooding concerns to parts of the Gulf Coast and South through late this week. Gusty winds, rip currents and isolated tornadoes are also expected. Moisture and energy from Cindy will also spread north and east ahead of a cold front Thursday-Friday, which will result in heavy rain and possible flooding from the South to as far north as the Ohio Valley. A tropical storm warning has been issued from San Luis Pass, Texas, to the mouth of the Mississippi River, which means tropical storm conditions are expected within 36 hours. This warning area includes Houston, Galveston, Texas, Lake Charles, Louisiana, and Lafayette, Louisiana.

Tropical storm conditions are ongoing in the warning area and will spread westward within the warning area through early Thursday. Cindy is expected to move northwestward and approach the coasts of southwest Louisiana and southeast Texas late Wednesday into Wednesday night, before moving inland near the Texas/Louisiana border Thursday.

SERVPRO of North Arlington is prepared to assist in this storm situation! Stay safe.

817-557-1447

The Clean Up Crew

6/12/2017 (Permalink)

Biohazard clean-up and contents removal

Here at SERVPRO of North Arlington we understand how catastrophic the loss of a loved one can be. We empathize with you and it is our number 1 goal to ensure that our customers feel as comfortable as possible during the clean-up process. If you currently in a situation and are needing biohazard clean-up please do not hesitate to call us. We will work with you to figure out the best way to handle your situation. Each biohazard is different from the one before but our customer care and empathy remains the same.

Our biohazard services range from but not limited to: suicides, crime scenes, bodily fluids, break-ins, car wrecks, etc. No job is too small nor too large for us to handle.

We will make sure to be as accommodating and helpful as possible!

Call us at 972-602-1112, 817-577-1447, or 817-557-1505

A brief description of the photo attached. The tenant of this unit had passed away and the complex needed us to performing biohazard clean up as well as discard of the contents in the unit. We removed the flooring and then applied a sealer to the subfloor.

Hail Damage? Do not wait until tomorrow.

4/26/2017 (Permalink)

What do you do when you have checked the weather, it states no rain in the forecast and then you wake up to pouring rain, lightning strikes, and hail? This was our issue this morning.

So I checked my phone last night there was no rain in the forecast! As I am getting ready to come to work it's pouring outside and the thunder is so loud that my dogs are going crazy. Then I open garage door and there is hail coming down like crazy. Obviously the weatherman didn't get it right today.

If you woke up this morning to the same situation then it is highly possible that you extremely frustrated because of the traffic and because everyone seems to be driving irrationally.

Did your home get struck by hail? If so we are here to help.

Hail damage can lead to roof damage and roof damage to water damage. If you experiencing water damage in your home or business due to our unexpected storm please call us we are here to get you back in preloss condition as soon as possible. Do not leave what can be taken care of today for tomorrow. Leaving a water damage unattended can be very pricey in long run. What may seem very minimal can lead to mold damage. Who wants to deal with MOLD?

Call us:

972-602-1112~ 817-557-1447~ 817-557-1505

The people who answer your calls

4/25/2017 (Permalink)

We never think about the importance of answering the phone. Here at SERVPRO of North Arlington our main focus is making sure that every phone call is answered promptly, friendly, and with extreme care. We never know what personality and situation we are going to get once we answer the phone. We could be dealing with someone whom has lost a love one and is in need of biohazard service or it could be someone whose entire home has gone up in flames. Because of these situations that could occur we have been taught to handle each phone call with utmost empathy possible. Our administrative assistance play a very big role in our office; from answering phone calls, to dealing with insurance adjuster, to ensuring that every claim is handled promptly. Not only do our administrative assistance answer the phone but they also work hand in hand with the technicians to ensuring that every job is handled correctly.

We would like to honor all administrative assistance and express how much we appreciate all their hard work.

Administrative week is the last week of April and Administrative Professional day is 4/26/17.

How did administrative professional day begin?

During World War II, there was a shortage of skilled administrative personnel in the United States due to Depression-era birth-rate decline and booming post-war business. The National Secretaries Association, founded in 1942, was formed to recognize the contributions of administrative personnel to the economy, support their personal development, and to help attract workers to the administrative field. Key figures who created the holiday were the president of the National Secretaries Association, Mary Barrett, president of Dictaphone Corporation, C. King Woodbridge, and public relations account executives at Young and Rubicam, Harry F. Klemfuss and Daren Ball.

The official period of celebration was first proclaimed by Charles W. Sawyer as "National Secretaries Week", which was held June 1–7 in 1952 with Wednesday, June 4 designated as National Secretaries' Day. The first Secretaries' Day was sponsored by the National Secretaries Association with the support of corporate groups.

In 1955, the observance date of National Secretaries Week was moved to the last full week of April, with Wednesday now designated as Administrative Professionals' Day. The name was changed to Professional Secretaries Week in 1981 and became Administrative Professionals Week in 2000 to encompass the expanding responsibilities and wide-ranging job titles of administrative support staff in the modern economy. The week-long observance was created in order to space out the bookings at restaurants, country clubs, and other places where administrative professionals would be taken out to lunch.

Tornado Alley... We are in Peak Season! Let us HELP you!

4/24/2017 (Permalink)

Did you know that Texas is known for having the most tornadoes in all the 50 states.

Or how about that Tarrant county has had the most tornadoes than any other county in the US since 2000.

The peak of tornado season for North Central Texas occurs in late-April to early May. Dallas-Ft. Worth is the largest metropolitan area in Tornado Alley.

The highest average annual concentration of violent-class (F4-F5) tornadoes occurs between Dallas-Ft. Worth and Oklahoma City.

Let's break down the cause of a tornado.

The relatively flat land in the Great Plains allows cold dry polar air from Canada to meet warm moist tropical air from the Gulf of Mexico. A large number of tornadoes form when these two air masses meet, along a phenomenon known as a "dryline." The dryline is a boundary separating hot, dry air to the west from warm, moist air to the east. You can see it on a weather map by looking for sharp changes in dew point temperatures. Between adjacent weather stations the differences in dew point can vary by as much as 40 degrees or more. The dryline is usually found along the western high plains. Air moving down the eastern slopes of the Rockies warms and dries as it sinks onto the plains, creating a hot, dry, cloud-free zone. During the day, it moves eastward mixing up the warm moist air ahead of it. If there is enough moisture and instability in the warm air, severe storms can form - because the dryline is the "push" the air needs to start moving up! During the evening, the dryline "retreats" and drifts back to the west. The next day the cycle can start all over again, until a larger weather system pushes through and washes it away. Tornadoes kill an average of 60 people per year, mostly from flying or falling debris.

I know that nothing can prepare for the devastation that is left as a result from tornadoes but you can be prepared by having our contact information in the case that you need someone to assist you in your time of disaster.

We are here to help in anyway needed. From removing debris, to assisting in packing out your home, inventory non-salvageable items, we are here to help along the way.

SERVPRO North Arlington, South Arlington, and Grand Prairie

972-602-1112 / 817-557-1447 / 817-557-1505

EMERGENCY SERVICES DURING THE HOLIDAYS

4/14/2017 (Permalink)

HAPPY EASTER

With our upcoming Easter holiday families are gathering, church services are being attended, plans are being made, but no one is preparing for a home disaster!

SERVPRO of North Arlington is here to assist you in making the unplanned a manageable situation. We are 24 hour emergency service company. If you are in need of any water damage, fire damage services please allow us to assist you. You do not need to wait until Monday to resolve your problem.

LET US HELP YOU!

Have Questions? Call Us 24/7 – North Arlington

Residential Services

Whether your Arlington home needs emergency flood damage or your upholstery cleaned, you can depend on us. Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and can make your property look its best. Learn more about our residential services:

Water Damage Restoration
Fire Damage Restoration
Mold Remediation
Storm Damage Restoration
Cleaning Services
Building/Reconstruction Services

Commercial Services

There's never a convenient time for fire or Water damage to strike your Arlington commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business.

Commercial Water Damage Restoration
Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

Adopt A Street Program

3/9/2015 (Permalink)

SERVPRO North Arlington, South Arlington, & Grand Prairie has adopted a street in Mansfield. We are going to pick up trash monthly on a 1 mile stretch to help keep our city clean.

Bathroom Exhaust Fan

11/1/2013 (Permalink)

Total Loss Fire

This house was a total loss because something as simple as a dirty bathroom exhaust fan.

If you have a fire or water emergency, please call us now at (817) 557-1447

Archived Blog Posts

Keeping your property safe from hurricane damage

How Can Water Damage In The Office Be Prevented?

The Cost of Demolition and Repairing a Damaged Structure

Storm Season approaching

This Spring, Here Are 6 Ways to Save Money and Water!

Example of Tree Falling on Roof Causing Water Damage & Gradual Damage

Sanitation of Food and Water

Long-term flooding or moisture

Storm Season approaching

Sanitation of Food and Water

What Should You Do If There's a Flood?

What Is the Best Way to Clean Up Flood Water?

How to Clean Up Blood in a Variety of Situations

Why do frozen pipes often burst

How to keep frozen pipes from bursting in your home

How to put a stop to the leak in your house

What steps should you take if your home floods?

What you should do if your house floods

Inquiring to the Insurance Company

Cleaning up after a ruptured pipe

Floods can occur.

Mold avoidance

Sewer backup causes

Wildfire protection for your home

Ins and Outs of Air Sampling

Warning Signs of Mold Damage

Create a “defensible space”

Keep embers out

Wildfire Defense To Help Your Home

How to prepare your home for a storm

How to prepare your home for a storm

Doing new construction or renovation?

Electrical fires

Document Damage

In an Instant

Living in a House After a Fire

Fire Drills: Not Just for School!

Does Insurance Cover Storm Damage?

Mold Basics

How to Avoid Mold in a Vacant House

Property Claims

What if You Can't Get Out Right Away?

What to Do After a Hurricane?

What to do in a fire

Tips for preventing water damage to your office

Preparing for a Hurricane or other Tropical storm

What to Do in a Storm

House Fire Recovery Steps

Safety First

Removing smoke damage from the kitchen

Plan Your Escape

Keep mold at bay

Workplace Fire Good housekeeping

Take steps to protect your home

Create a home inventory

Cleaning Up After a Storm

Stay Safe During a Hurricane

Many causes of office and store fires are the same as those for home fires. Prevention and escape planning recommendations are similar.

Hurricane Forecasts

How to prepare for hurricane season

Power Outages

Preparing for a hurricane or tropical storm

In the Workplace

Wind Damage Insurance Claims

Skip The Soap And Water

Make sure your roof is in tip-top condition

steps to help prevent wind damage

How can you prevent mold in your home?

Never leave burning candles unattended

Does Home Insurance Cover Frozen Pipes?

Preparedness Tips

Consider “Smart” Bathroom Timers and Humidity Sensors

What to Do During a Fire

CHILDREN AND HOME FIRES

Check the Outside of Your Home

The 7 Ways to Prepare for a Home Fire

Rip Currents

How do you get the molds out of buildings, including homes, schools, and places of employment?