Do You Have Dirty Ducts?

4/6/2020 (Permalink)

Did you know your ventilation system is often the biggest culprit in poor indoor air quality? Inspecting the ductwork in your facility or home should be a high priority. In most cases, the HVAC system has been operating for some time without much attention. Dirty ducts can circulate odors, contaminants such as mold and irritating dust throughout your building or home.

A routine part of SERVPRO® of Floyd County's service is inspecting the heating, ventilation and air conditioning unit (HVAC). Keeping the HVAC and ductwork clean can potentially extend the life-span of the equipment by allowing it to operate at peak condition, which may help save you money. Duct cleaning may not always be necessary. SERVPRO® of Floyd County will inspect your HVAC system and ductwork and make recommendations about the best way to address any indoor air quality concerns. This inspection can help save you money and provide peace of mind on the health of your HVAC system and ductwork.

In some circumstances, such as after a fire, smoke or suspected mold growth, duct cleaning becomes an essential part of the cleanup process. In these cases, SERVPRO® of Floyd County can often restore the HVAC system and ductwork to pre-damage condition.

If you have a fuel-burning furnace, stove or fireplace, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends they be inspected for proper functioning and be serviced before each heating season to protect against carbon monoxide poisoning.

The SERVPRO® Duct Cleaning System is proven and cost-efficient. Unlike the majority of duct cleaning services, SERVPRO® of Floyd County uses a portable ventilation and air duct cleaning system to examine ductwork and make a clean sweep, removing years of dust and grime.

• The process begins by using patented equipment, including a roto-scraper, which automatically adapts to the duct’s shape and diameter while traveling through the duct, removing debris and filth before vacuuming begins.
• Next, a powerful push-pull air delivery and collection system transfers the debris from the ducting to a 16-gallon container.
• Air is filtered through a HEPA filtration system, removing 99.97 percent of the particles in the airstream. HEPA filters capture debris and keep the indoor environment clean.
• As an optional process, a sealant or coating product may be sprayed to address odor or microbial concerns.
• Filters will either be cleaned or replaced to remove odor and dirt.

For more information on duct cleaning, or to schedule an appointment, contact SERVPRO® of Floyd County today. 

*Courtesy of Restoration Newsline Vol 30, Iss 4

Emergency Fire Damage Tips

4/2/2020 (Permalink)

These emergency tips will assist you in taking proper action until SERVPRO® of Floyd County professionals arrive. Follow these DOs and DON’Ts to help reduce damage and increase the chances of a successful restoration.

DO: 

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into carpet and avoid tracking.
• Keep hands clean. Soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork.
• If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator completely and prop doors open to help prevent odor.
• Wipe soot from metal kitchen and bathroom faucets, trim and appliances.
• If heat is off during winter, pour RV antifreeze in sinks, toilet bowls, holding tanks and tubs to avoid freezing pipes and fixtures.
• Remove soot particles from plants with a damp cloth.
• Change HVAC filter, but leave system off until a trained professional can check the system.
• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers to stop particles of soot from getting in or out of the HVAC system.

DON’T:

• Don’t attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without first contacting SERVPRO® of Floyd County.
• Don’t attempt to shampoo carpet, rugs or upholstered furniture without first consulting SERVPRO® of Floyd County.
• Don’t attempt to clean any electrical appliances (TV sets, radios, etc.) that may have been close to fire, heat or water without first consulting an authorized repair service.
• Don’t consume any food or beverages that may have been stored close to fire, heat or water. (They may be contaminated.)
• Don’t turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. Wiring may be wet or damaged and cause electrical shock and air movement may create secondary damage.
• Don’t send garments to the dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set in smoke odor.

When fire and water damage take control of your life, SERVPRO® of Floyd County will help you take it back.

*Courtesy of Restoration Newsline Vol 30, Iss 2

Winter Weather Worries

4/2/2020 (Permalink)

Winter weather can bring about more issues than just slippery roads and a sidewalk to shovel. If you live where temperatures sink below freezing level, you are also at risk for frozen pipes and ice dams, which can create a major disaster at your home or property.

FROZEN PIPES

Frozen pipes are often those exposed to the cold weather, such as those outside your house, or in cold areas such as basements, attics, garages, or kitchen cabinets.

A frozen pipe can burst at the point where the ice blockage inside the pipe is located, but typically the rupture is caused by the backflow pressure between the water source and the blockage. A burst pipe can cause considerable damage to your property if not addressed quickly.

To prevent pipes from freezing, here are a few steps you can take, according to The American Red Cross:

• Be sure to completely drain water from swimming pool and sprinkler lines, as well as outside hoses.
• Open kitchen cabinets to let warm air circulate near the plumbing.
• When the weather is extremely cold, let water drip from faucets that may come from exposed pipes.
• Keep your heat set to the same temperature both day and night.

ICE DAMS

Ice dams can be a little-known, but major problem during the snowy season. They form when heated air melts roof snow downward into water dammed behind still-frozen ice. When the trapped water cannot safely flow or run into the gutter system, it can backflow under the roof ’s shingles and into the structure’s interior areas, as well as causing gutters and shingles to move or fall.

Icicles can be an initial sign of an ice dam, according to Travelers.com. To spot ice dams inside, “check for water stains or moisture in your attic or along the ceiling of exterior walls of your house. Water stains or moisture may be an indication that an ice dam has formed and water has penetrated the roof membrane.”

Removing an ice dam as soon as it is found is vital to helping prevent damage to your property and can be done using heated cables, a roof shovel, or calcium chloride ice melter.

If winter weather causes water damage to you or your insured’s property, the professionals at SERVPRO® of Floyd County are only a call away, 24/7, ready to restore to preloss condition.

Source: redcross.org, Travelers.com

Courtesy of Restoration Newsline Vol 30, Iss 1

Understanding Water Types

4/2/2020 (Permalink)

When your home or business suffers a water damage, understanding what type of water you are dealing with is critical to ensuring proper cleanup.

There are three types of water. Clean water is water from a broken pipe, or other water source; rainwater is also considered clean. The term gray water is used to classify slightly contaminated water. Clean water becomes gray water when it is left untreated allowing bacteria and other contaminants to begin growing, making the water hazardous. Black water is highly contaminated and filled with fungi, bacteria, chemicals and more. Black water is typically caused by sewage damage, flooding or any type of natural disaster. Black water should always be handled by trained professionals.

Consider taking the following precautions to help minimize damage or prevent further damage while waiting for help to arrive.

Damage from Clean Water

• Shut off the water source if possible or contact a qualified professional to do so.

• Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building if access to the power distribution panel is safe from potential electrical shock. Do not enter rooms with standing water, as electrical shock hazards may exist.

• Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting. Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removing lamps and tabletop items.

• Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions to allow more even drying.

• Move any paintings, art objects, computers, documents and other valuable items that may be sensitive to moisture to a safe place.

• Do not leave books, newspapers, magazines or other colored items on wet carpets or floors as they may cause staining.

• Do not use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water as there is potential for electrical shock or causing damage to the vacuum cleaner.

• Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet; do not enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water.

Damage from Contaminated Water

• Avoid all contact with sewage and items contaminated by sewage. Wash your hands thoroughly if you come in contact with contaminated items.

• Do not walk through contaminated areas, as you could spread damage to unaffected areas.

• Do not turn on the HVAC system if there is a possibility of spreading contaminated air.

• Do not use household fans to dry the structure; air flow could spread contaminants.

• Discard any food and/or products for personal hygiene and cleanliness if exposed to the contaminated areas.

When you have a water damage, don’t leave your property to chance. Call SERVPRO® of Floyd County at 706-802-1085.

*Courtesy of Restoration Newsline Vol 30, Iss 3

Flooding Can Happen Anywhere

4/2/2020 (Permalink)

According to the National Weather Service (NOAA), “Approximately seventy-five percent of all Presidential disaster declarations are associated with flooding.” NOAA lists the most common flood hazards in the United States as:

• Flash Flooding

• River Flooding

• Storm Surge and Coastal Inundation from Tropical and Non-Tropical Systems

• Burn Scars/Debris Flows (Caused by Wildfires)

• Ice/Debris Jams

• Snowmelt

• Dry Wash (Caused by heavy rainfall in dry areas)

• Dam Breaks/Levee Failure

Just because you haven’t experienced a flood doesn’t mean you won’t in the future. In fact, 20% of all claims paid by the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) were for policies in low-risk communities. On average, floods cost $3.5 billion in annual losses in the U.S., and commercial flood claims average more than $75,000 (NFIP).

When catastrophic water damage happens to you, SERVPRO® of Floyd County can help. They can help you prepare ahead of time with an Emergency Ready Profile® (ERP), or respond to any size disaster to begin cleanup and restoration to get you back in business as soon as possible. SERVPRO® of Floyd County is ready to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

*Courtesy of Restoration Newsline Vol 30, Iss 3

2020 Resolution - Plan Ahead

4/2/2020 (Permalink)

With each new year, many people resolve to better themselves or some part of their life. This year, make a resolution to be READY. No one ever plans on a disaster, but you can prepare for it. The SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile® (ERP) will help ensure you are “Ready for whatever happens” in 2020.

In the event of an emergency, the ERP can help minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action in place for your facility. The ERP is a comprehensive document containing critical information about your business, including emergency contacts, shut-off valve locations and priority areas. The ERP also establishes SERVPRO® of Floyd County as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider, giving you access to over 50 years of experience and a System more than 1,700 Franchises strong. The ERP is a no cost assessment; all it requires is a little time, making it a great value that could save you time and money in the future. By downloading the free SERVPRO® READY App, this information is stored electronically and can be accessed using your mobile device putting help at your fingertips.

Preparation is the key to making it through any size disaster, whether it is a small water leak, a large fire or an area flood. Having a plan in place may help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive and get you back in the building following a disaster. Don’t wait until disaster strikes—resolve to be READY. Call SERVPRO® of Floyd County to establish your Emergency READY Profile®, and be “Ready for whatever happens” in 2020.

Advantages of the SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile®

• A no-cost assessment of your facility.
• A concise profile document containing only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency.
• A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster.
• Establishes SERVPRO® of Floyd County as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider.
• Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin.
• Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information.

Contact SERVPRO of Floyd County - (706) 802-1085 - to schedule your ERP today.

*Courtesy of Restoration Newsline Vol 30, Iss 1

Be Prepared with an ERP

4/2/2020 (Permalink)

The SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile® (ERP) will help ensure you are “Ready for whatever happens.” In the event of an emergency, the ERP can help minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action in place for your facility. The ERP is a comprehensive document containing critical information about your business, including emergency contacts, shut-off valve locations and priority areas.

One of our Sales and Marketing Professionals will come to your site and walk you through the ERP process. They will collect the necessary information, compile it into the ERP, and provide you with your personalized plan of action, both digitally and in print. Call SERVPRO® of Floyd County to establish your Emergency READY Profile®! We stand ready to help you in your time of need.

Damage From Vandals Adds Insult To Injury On Fire-Damaged Properties

3/12/2020 (Permalink)

Fires and other major perils can leave business properties unoccupied and sometimes poorly secured. Unfortunately, these conditions can open the property to a greater risk for vandalism.

If your business has been vandalized, you are most likely covered for damages under your commercial insurance policy. However, Attorney Bill Voss knows this may not seem like helpful information when you are trying to get your business back to normal as quickly as you can.

Vandalism, the deliberate act of damaging or destroying others’ private property, is often seen as less damaging than burglary, the act of breaking into a private property with the intent of stealing. However, vandalism can be extremely damaging and expensive for owners of commercial property. In the event that your commercial property is damaged by vandals, it is vital that you file an insurance claim and work toward getting repairs completed quickly.

Examples of Vandalism on Business Properties

Vandalism can be much more than a little graffiti. It can ruin entire buildings and stop your business from welcoming customers for hours, days, or weeks. Some common examples of vandalism include:

• Breaking windows
• Spray-painting walls and other graffiti
• Intentional flooding
• Defacing property
• Ruining landscaping
• Damaging merchandise
• Destroying signs
• Breaking fencing or walls
• Destroying air conditioners or other appliances

*Courtesy of https://www.vosslawfirm.com/blog/commercial-property-vandalism-after-a-fire.cfm

Preventing Burglary and Vandalism on Commercial Properties

3/12/2020 (Permalink)

Burglary and vandalism are very expensive problems for commercial property owners. Getting money for repairs from the insurance company can be stressful and complicated, especially when a property has already been damaged by a fire. Preventing vandalism and avoiding the need for additional insurance claims can help save time, money, and worry. Here are five steps that you can take to protect your property:

• Invest in good lighting. Vandalism most often happens in night and under the cover of darkness. If your business property and surrounding parking area is well lit, it will not attract vandals, especially the type of vandals that are simply looking for easy targets. Keep the area lit even if it closed while awaiting repairs.
   
• Invest in great security. Is vandalism a big enough problem in your area that it would be cost-effective to have security at night or temporarily while the property is unoccupied? Look at the damage done by vandalism on your property in recent years as well as how much you have spent on insurance. Now look at how much extra security would cost. Does the math work?
   
• Make smart design and landscape choices. Just as lighting can help stop vandalism, using certain material choices and smart landscape design can also keep lawbreakers and mischief-makers away. For example, using thick, thorny bushes on the borders of your buildings can deter taggers.
   
• Clean up vandalism as soon as possible. Unfortunately, vandalism follows vandalism. Your buildings are less likely to be damaged if they are kept up and do not already have signs of property damage from vandals. This applies even to properties that have been damaged by other causes, even if repairs or repainting are already scheduled for the future.
   
• Get active in your community. What is at the root of vandalism? Usually, it is a combination of boredom, anger, and defiancé in the community’s youth. Go straight to the source of vandalism by getting active and being visible in your community: support youth recreation, help local schools, adopt a nearby park or road, and donate your time and money.

Sadly, not all vandals can be stopped, even if you take all of the precautions listed above. If your commercial property has been damaged by vandalism, it should at least be a relief to know that the costs of repair may be covered by your property insurance policy.

*Courtesy of https://www.vosslawfirm.com/blog/commercial-property-vandalism-after-a-fire.cfm

How Fast Can Water Damage Ruin a Home?

2/27/2020 (Permalink)

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.

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.

Water damage within weeks

• Mold sinks roots into organic materials and destroys their integrity.

• Occupants must be evacuated due to health hazards.

• Allergen sensitivity may arise from microbial growth.

• A complete gutting of the structure may be necessary, which will drive the claim up astronomically and displace the occupants.

Water damage escalates to mold and microbial growth issues in just a few days, which can compromise the health of the inhabitants, including your pets. Given these facts, you must begin to clean up a water damage mess as soon as you can to prevent further damage to your home. Most of these challenges are claims that are covered by your homeowners insurance policy. Reputable restoration firms work with all insurance companies and file all the paperwork on your behalf so you can focus on what matters most in a time of need.  

*Courtesy of https://www.angieslist.com/articles/how-fast-can-water-damage-ruin-home.htm

The 10 Best Home Fire Extinguishers

2/27/2020 (Permalink)

Fire Safety Do’s and Don’ts

2/27/2020 (Permalink)

Fire Safety Do’s

• Keep smoke detectors in good working order. Check your Smoke detectors at least twice a year. A good way to remember is by checking them when the time changes due to daylight savings.
• Have an escape plan and have multiple escape routes. Practice multiple times a year, especially with young children.
• Teach children about the dangers of playing with lighters and matches. Seek to enroll them in a fire safety class. There are several available free of charge or for a minimal fee. Your local fire station is a wonderful place to bring your children to learn about fire safety, meet some of the local firefighters, and get to see the trucks.
• If you notice any electrical malfunctions in your home, have them examined immediately by a certified electrician. If you wait, it could be too late. With this in mind, if you own an older home with an outdated electrical system, have it updated ASAP. The old knob and tube electrical systems are unable to handle the electrical load of today’s electronics.
• Have at least one fire extinguisher in your home. Keep it in an area where it is easily accessible. Make sure all family members are familiar with how to use them. Small fires cause less damage but grow quickly so be cautious while using a fire extinguisher. If the fire does not go out quickly, EVACUATE!!
• Stay below the smoke. The chemical make-up of smoke does serious damage to your brain and lungs. First disorientation will set in, then you go unresponsive. Eventually, your breathing will stop. It’s important to remember that the smoke will kill you before the fire does.
• Tell arriving firefighters the location of the fire or trapped family members. This will drastically increase the odds of the fire going out quickly and drastically shorten the time for the firefighters to find your family member.

Fire Safety Don’ts

• Don’t try to extinguish the fire yourself and then call 911. Call 911 immediately. Fires double in size every minute.
• Don’t try to be a hero. If the fire is too large EVACUATE!! If you have practiced your escape plans everyone will make it out safely.
• Don’t re-enter your home once you have evacuated.
• Don’t put space heaters within 3 feet of combustibles. Typical combustibles include bedding, curtains, clothes, books, and furniture.  Never leave space heaters unattended or left on in the room where you are sleeping.
• Don’t leave cooking food unattended and DO NOT use water on a cooking fire. If you are cooking with oil or grease, smother the fire with a lid or use an extinguisher specifically designed for cooking materials.  DO NOT smack at the fire with a dishtowel, this will cause oil or grease to splash around and cause the fire to spread!

When it comes to fires, knowledge can the difference between life and death so don’t hesitate to ask. If you have questions about these fire safety tips, home evacuation plans, or other fire prevention tips contact your local fire department.

*Courtesy of https://asisecurity.solutions/fire-safety-dos-donts/

P.A.S.S.

2/21/2020 (Permalink)

Portable fire extinguishers can be life and property saving tools when used correctly. In order to operate an extinguisher, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) suggests remembering the word PASS:

• Pull the pin. Hold the nozzle pointing away from you and release the locking mechanism.
• Aim low. Point the extinguisher at the base of the fire.
• Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly.
• Sweep the nozzle from side-to-side.

Read the instructions on the fire extinguisher and become familiar with them before a fire breaks out. Remember, extinguishers do have limitations. It is also important to ensure you have the correct type of extinguisher for your facility. To find more information on choosing the appropriate class of extinguisher, please visit the NFPA website at nfpa.org.

*Courtesy of Restoration Newsline Vol 30, Iss 2

Safety in Your Home

1/27/2020 (Permalink)

Severe Weather Safety and Survival

Safety Where You Live

Jump to "What to Do Without a Basement or Safe Room"
Jump to Apartments and Mobile Homes

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:

1. Get as low as possible - completely underground is best.

1. 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)

Storm Cellars and Basements

Being completely underground is the best place to be in a tornado. If you have an underground storm cellar, use it. Make sure the door is securely fastened.

If the entrance to your storm cellar is outside, you should allow plenty of time to get to the shelter before the storm arrives. If you wait until the storm is upon you, you may be exposed to wind, hail, rain, lightning and maybe even flying debris as you go to the cellar.

A basement is also a good shelter in most cases. If your basement is not totally underground, or has outside doors or windows, stay as far away from them as possible. Items from above could fall into the basement, so it's a good idea to get under a stairwell or a piece of sturdy furniture. If possible, avoid seeking shelter underneath heavy objects on the floor above. Use coverings (pillows, blankets, sleeping bags, coats, etc) and helmets to shield your head and body and to protect yourself from flying debris. 

Safe Rooms

A reinforced safe room (or above-ground tornado shelter) is as good as an underground shelter in most situations. Safe rooms are specially-designed reinforced tornado shelters built into homes, schools and other buildings. The Federal Emergency Management Agency, in close cooperation with experts in wind engineering and tornado damage, has developed detailed guidelines for constructing a safe room. For more, go to the FEMA Saferoom webpage.

If No Underground or Reinforced Shelter is Available

If you're like most people, you don't have an underground shelter. In this case, you need to find a location that is...

• As close to the ground as possible

• As far inside the building as possible

• Away from doors, windows and outside walls

• In as small of a room as possible

If you don't have a safe room, basement or underground storm shelter, what should you do? Remembering the basics of tornado safety, you should look around your home to determine the best place.

Here are Some Ideas

• 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.

• Closets
  
  A small interior closet might be a shelter. Again, the closet should be as deep inside the building as possible, with no outside walls, doors or windows. Be sure to close the door and cover up.

• Hallways
  
  If a hallway is your shelter area, be sure to shut all doors. Again, the goal is to create as many barriers as possible between you and the flying debris in and near a tornado. To be an effective shelter, a hallway should as be far inside the building as possible and should not have any openings to the outside (windows and doors).

• Under Stairs
  
  The space underneath a stairwell could be used as a shelter.

Generally speaking, you should not leave your home in your vehicle when a tornado threatens. In most cases, you will have a better chance of surviving by staying put in your home. Every home is different - there is no absolute safe place in every home. Use the guidelines. Unless you are deep underground, there is no such thing as a 100% tornado-proof shelter. Freak accidents can happen.

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.

Mobile Homes

Even an EF-1 tornado, typically considered a "weak tornado", will most likely severely damage a mobile home and/or roll it over. This is why tornado safety plans are so crucial for residents of mobile homes!

Pictured below is a destroyed mobile home southeast of Wewoka from a tornado in 1998. This is an example of what an EF-1 tornado can do to a mobile home.

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

Hoarding: A Serious Problem

11/26/2019 (Permalink)

According to The Mayo Clinic, “Hoarding disorder is a persistent difficulty discarding or parting with possessions because of a perceived need to save them. A person with hoarding disorder experiences distress at the thought of getting rid of the items. Excessive accumulation of items, regardless of actual value, occurs.” Many people with hoarding disorder do not find their habits to be a problem.

Hoarded items are often things others would throw away or look at as junk or garbage such as old newspapers, junk mail or packaging.

Hoarding can lead to homes filled with extreme clutter to full capacity from years of accumulation, making living conditions unsanitary and crowded. Bugs, fleas, rats and other vermin may be present, at which point an exterminator would need to be called. At times, hoarding may spread to outside the home as well, to storage facilities, or even the garage or yard.

SERVPRO® of Floyd County encounters hoarding situations several different ways. Often, SERVPRO® of Floyd County is called for a fire or water loss and find the hoarding situation when they arrive on-site. One of our trained professionals will communicate with the insurance company regarding their contents coverage, and after approval, contents can be packed out and possibly cleaned, dried, and stored by SERVPRO® of Floyd County, or relocated to a storage facility so work on the fire or water loss can begin.

Another way SERVPRO® of Floyd County encounters hoarding jobs is through calls from landlords, case workers, real estate agents, or family members, often after the death of a loved one. In these situations, the crew will see if they should look for any items of importance while they clean the job. Sometimes, family members will come and try to help the hoarder sort through their contents as well.

Each case is very different, and hoarding jobs are often sensitive situations, but SERVPRO® of Floyd County is here to help make it “Like it never even happened.” If you encounter a hoarding situation at one of your properties, or with your insureds, call SERVPRO® of Floyd County today at 706-802-1085.

*Courtesy of Restoration Newsline Vol 29, Iss 4

Tips to prevent Winter Water Damage

11/26/2019 (Permalink)

During the winter months, your building is susceptible to water damage due to the colder temperatures. Once the temperature drops below freezing, the pipes of your building could become frozen and possibly burst. Additionally, the formation of ice dams on the roof can cause damage to walls, ceiling, and insulation. Taking the proper precautions can help safeguard your organization against frozen pipes and ice dams.

Frozen Pipes

These preventive measures can help avoid frozen pipes:

• Wrap any water pipes that are exposed to freezing temperatures and cold drafts, and those located in unheated or non-insulated areas, with pipe insulation.
• During cold temperatures, leave open the doors of cabinets where water pipes and drains are present to allow warm air to circulate around the pipes.
• During extremely cold weather, turn faucets to a slow drip to reduce the chance of the pipe freezing.
• Consider installing an automatic detection system that can monitor the temperature of a specific pipe. If the temperature of the pipe drops below a pre-set temperature, the unit will automatically shut off the main water valve. This will not prevent the pipe from freezing, but it will protect the pipes from bursting. To determine the best system to install for your building, contact a qualified plumber.
• Set the thermostat to 50 degrees or above when the building will be unoccupied for a prolonged period of time during cold weather. If possible, ask someone to check the building daily to see that the heating system is working properly.
• Insulate the outside walls and unheated areas of the building.
• Heat the basement, and consider weather-sealing the windows.
• Close windows near water pipes and cover open-air vents. Freezing temperatures and wind drafts are a combination that can cause pipes to freeze more frequently.
• Disconnect any garden hoses, and install covers on the outside faucets.

If a pipe freezes, contact a licensed plumbing contractor as soon as possible. If a pipe bursts, shut off the water at the building’s main water valve, if possible, then contact a licensed plumbing contractor as soon as possible. A licensed plumbing contractor should be listed in your emergency contact information.

Ice Dams

Ice dams can be prevented by taking the following safety measures:

• Make sure the attic has adequate insulation and ventilation. Rust spots, rusty nails, or the odor of mildew could be an indication of insufficient ventilation.
• Consider installing soffit vents to increase ventilation.
• Seal openings in the attic, such as heat ducts, light fixtures or vent pipes.
• Keep the gutters, eaves and downspouts clean.
• Clear snow two to three feet from the roof edges with a snow rake to allow melting snow to drain and not be trapped under snow and ice.

Cold temperatures and the weather that comes along with it are unavoidable. It is important to follow the recommended tips above to prevent damage caused by frozen pipes and ice dams. In doing so, you may not only be saving money, but your organization will be able to carry on without any disruptions.

**Courtesy of https://www.guideone.com/blog/winter-water-damage

The Dangers of DIY Water Damage Restoration

11/26/2019 (Permalink)

People often think that taking control and doing things on their own is sufficient. We are told that we can do anything we set our minds to, so in the case of a water disaster in our home, why not rely on water damage cleanup tutorials on YouTube? It can’t be that hard. Wrong! There are a lot of things that people can do just fine on their own or by following tutorials and guides, but when it comes to water damage restoration, there is a reason the professionals are certified and insured. It is a difficult job that MUST be done the right way to make sure that your home does not suffer more damage and is safe to live in.

In San Tan Valley, many might think that because of the hot and dry climate, there is no reason to worry about water damage. But, water damage can happen in many forms, such as faulty appliances, plumbing issues, and occasional floods. With this in mind, it is important to know why you should always leave water damage clean-up to the professionals instead of yourself.

Here are some reasons why:

Equipment & Knowledge

Professionals have the necessary tools and specialized equipment to remove the water and dry out the area properly. Most people don’t have this kind of equipment laying around just in case they have a water problem. Without the correct tools, it will not get done right. Professionals are also called professionals for a reason. They have been extensively trained to know how to restore your home to their original state, or better. You don’t have to worry if it’s being done right or not.

Future Damage

Hiring pros will decrease or completely get rid of issues in the future if it is cleaned by professionals. For example, there can be water in places that are not visible to the naked eye that the everyday person would miss. Issues that could arise from such things are mold growth, weakness to the structure, health hazards, and many other things. But professionals already know to make sure those spots are restored.

Personal Relief

If you hire a professional, you don’t have to worry if you are doing the job the right way. The training and experience that professionals have allow them to make your home clean and safe. Water disasters are already stressful situations for homeowners. Don’t make the situation increasingly stressful by trying to figure out the right way to fix the problem, only to end up with bigger problems in the future.

**Courtesy of https://contactrestoration.com/2019/02/water-damage-cleanup-san-tan-valley/

The Dangers of Fire Damage Restoration: Why Getting Professional Help Is a Smart Idea

11/26/2019 (Permalink)

If your home has recently been damaged by fire, you’re probably more than eager to kick-start the restoration process. After all, you can’t wait to resume your normal life again!

So you roll up your sleeves as you get ready to enter your fire-damaged home. You already have a game plan in your mind. But you should know a DIY approach isn’t the solution to your problems!

Wondering why you shouldn’t clean up yourself and opt for professional help instead? Here’s why!

Causes More Damage

If you’re taking out your cleaning supplies to clear away the aftermath of the fire incident, you might want to take a step back. Cleaning up after fire damage isn’t a walk in the park. It needs more than a face mask and a vacuum cleaner! It requires you to wipe away all the walls and floors to remove the soot and the residual elements thoroughly. So if you don’t have any professional equipment, you can’t expect to make any significant progress. Instead, attempting to clean it yourself will only result in more damage to your upholstery and property. 

Exposes You to Toxic Substances

You might be tempted to clean your fire-damaged home yourself. But cleaning up requires you to come directly in contact with hazardous substances. From smoke to soot particles and asbestos, these toxic elements can take a major toll on your overall health.

Even if you wear a dust mask, you can still inhale the soot and asbestos particulates. These can then enter your bloodstream to cause a number of health problems. To protect yourself and your loved ones from the dangerous effects of toxic substances, always enlist the help of a professional fire damage restoration company.

Adds To the Costs

If you’re going for a DIY clean up session to save some bucks, you might want to reconsider. Although it’s true that fire damage results in heavy costs for you as a homeowner, attempting a DIY job will only increase the costs.

It’s possible that you might end up throwing belongings that are salvageable. However, with the help of a professional fire damage restoration company, you’re able to save belongings that aren’t a lost cause. This way, you’ll only have to spend money on items that actually needed to be replaced.

**Courtesy of https://amnmasonry.com/blog/2019/5/20/the-dangers-of-fire-damage-restoration-why-getting-professional-help-is-a-smart-idea

Winter Storms

11/11/2019 (Permalink)

Severe winter storms can have a tremendous impact on individuals, animals, and communities. Cold temperatures, snow, ice, blizzard conditions with high winds and dangerous wind chills can all occur, leading to personal injury and possibly deaths. High winds combined with cold temperatures speeds the rate of heat loss to the body making serious health problems, such as frostbite or hypothermia more likely. Additional fatalities may occur from vehicle accidents, fires or carbon monoxide poisoning following the misuse of heaters. Dangerous driving conditions can lead to travelers being stranded on the road. Accumulations of snow and ice can result in road closures or blockages – isolating homes and farms for days. The heavy weight burden may cause roofs to collapse or knock down trees and power lines resulting in power outages and subsequent loss of heat in homes. Animals are also at risk during severe winter weather and are subject to wind chill factors, hypothermia and frostbite. Deaths can also occur due to dehydration, when water sources freeze and become unavailable. Winter conditions may make getting food and water to animals more difficult. Unprotected livestock may be lost. Businesses must also make preparations for winter storm situations. Protection of their employees will be necessary to ensure their safety. Employees that must work outdoors during extreme situations should be provided the necessary education on risk and measures to stay safe.

*Courtesy of: http://www.prep4agthreats.org/Natural-Disasters/winter-storms

9 THINGS TO DO WHEN IN A HOUSE FIRE 

8/28/2019 (Permalink)

Prevention is always the first step in all instances. To prevent a house fire from causing severe damages you truly need tips and tricks that could come in handy in times of a house fire. Fire is disastrous, and you have to be cautious because in as little as two minutes, a house fire can turn into a rapid movement and life-threatening disaster.

According to FEMA, each year thousands of Americans die in fire related incidents with billions of properties lost. In fact, the heat and smoke from the fire causes more deaths. Here are some tips and tricks you will need during a house fire:

1. Get The Fire Extinguisher.

If you hear the sound of the fire alarm in your home do not ignore it, go for your fire extinguisher as a one stop preventive measure. This singular act can help curb the fire instantly, but if your effort proves abortive after using the fire extinguisher, leave the scene immediately. Fire extinguishers are very important and should be installed in every house, no matter if private or commercial.

2. Raise an Alarm.

Inform others in the house of the fire situation by screaming out loud; do not rely on smoke detectors and alarm to inform others, they might sometimes malfunction due to battery faults and other reasons.

3. Call 911.

Pick up your phone and call the fire department after leaving the property, do not stop inside the house searching for your mobile device as you could get caught up in the flames. Rush out, and ask neighbors or passer-by to help you call the fire department.

4. Leave Valuables behind.

When in a fire, never delay to find the best possible escape route from a burning house to find valuables. You could always notify the fire safety officers when they arrive of such valuables describing their last known location.

5. Stop, Drop and Roll.

If your clothes catch fire, do not run, simply drop to the floor and roll over your back to extinguish the fire. Always crawl and remain close to the ground to keep you away from the high temperature, and thick smoke from the fire. Stay low, until you escape the burning house.

6. Cover Your Nose.

Cover your nostril with a shirt or a damp towel during a house fire; this will prevent smoke from entering your lungs. Also cover the faces of children as much as possible, especially when helping out to get them to safety.

Lastly do not run into a room filled with smoke or flames, doing that means running into massive danger.

7. Close doors.

Once you crawled out of a room, close the door behind you. Research has proven that closing doors prevents fire from spreading, which simply means the fire will be relegated to a spot for a while.

8. Rest Out.

Once you are out of the house, stay out. Even if you left your animals or property behind, do not enter a burning house. Notify the fire department officers immediately if you believe people or pets are still in the house and direct them to where they could be.

9. Safety Evacuation Spot.

After the evacuation, meet the rest of the family members in a predetermined location and remain there until everyone in the household is rescued. This is done to prevent fire officers from searching for people who are already out of the fire.

*Courtesy of: https://www.lifehack.org/487224/9-things-to-do-when-in-a-house-fire

Be Prepared (Tsunamis)

8/2/2019 (Permalink)

Did you know tsunamis can hit any U.S. coast? While they are more likely to hit states on the Pacific coastline or in the Caribbean, it is good to know what to do if a tsunami does strike where you live or even where you may vacation.
Ready.gov says, “tsunamis, also known as seismic sea waves (mistakenly called “tidal waves”), are a series of enormous waves created by an underwater disturbance, such as an earthquake, landslide, volcanic eruption, or meteorite.” Areas within a mile of the coast and less than 25 feet above sea level have a greater risk of being affected.
As with any emergency, be sure you have a plan in place prior. Know the evacuation plan, move inland or to higher ground, and avoid the beach. “The first wave may not be the last or the largest,” according to the National Weather Service.
After a tsunami, do not return to the affected area until officials deem it safe. While drowning is the most common hazard, there are many aftereffects, like flooding and contaminated drinking water.

Restoration Newsline Volume 30 Issue 8

Most Common Causes of Fire in Commercial Buildings   

8/2/2019 (Permalink)

Fires due to equipment failures might make headlines but 85 percent of the fires that occur in commercial buildings are due to human error or intent, reports Maine Municipal Association Risk Management Services (MMARMS).

Over 3,000 fatalities and 18,000 injuries occur every year in the US because of fire and fires consume $10 billion in property damage costs annually. MMARMS reports that 70-80,000 workplaces experience fire every year, causing disruption of public services and utilities and the loss of valuable property and information.

Arson

Arson is the leading cause of damage, death and workplace injuries that occur in commercial buildings. Arson doesn’t just financially affect a business owner or company, it injures or kills workers and fire fighters; it results in job loss for many; and fire can easily spread to other buildings and damage public utilities.

The motive for arson might be a way to camouflage other crimes, it can be instigated by an unhappy worker or client, or arson may occur due to mental instability. Economic and political grievances may lie behind an arson attack and arson may be committed in cases of insurance fraud. Simple vandalism is another common cause of arson.

Human Error

FM Global hazards manager George Capko points out that fires in warehouses are rare compared to those that occur in commercial buildings where people work. A smoldering cigarette, a forgotten coffee pot or a paper-laden computer are common causes of commercial fires.

Fire risk increase the higher the number of people that work in a building: it’s the use of equipment rather than the equipment itself that is usually the cause of a commercial fire.

Electrical Fires

Electrical appliances or systems can start a commercial fire but often, according to Donan’s Engineering Company, people are the origin of the problem. Unqualified individuals often modify electrical circuitry. Electrical code violations committed by unreliable builders or shoddy work by repairmen can start a fire in a commercial building. Electrical equipment that is misused or overloaded can cause fires and lack of proper maintenance can have disastrous results.

Boilers, Furnaces and Water Heaters

There are strict codes and regulations concerning the installation, use and maintenance of boilers, furnaces and water heaters. Improper installation can trigger a fire in a commercial building as can lack of regular maintenance. Boiler rooms and the like are often used as storage areas, increasing the risk of fire. Combustible materials should never be stored in such areas.

*Courtesy of:  //bizfluent.com/list-7653819-common-causes-fire-commercial-buildings.html

Best 2019 Hurricane Tracker Apps for iPhone and iPad: Track Tropical Cyclones Accurately

8/2/2019 (Permalink)

What’s the better way to keep an eye on the upcoming tornado and avoid falling prey to it? Pretty simple; take the help of the live map and accurate forecasts to remain a step ahead of the cyclone! We have reviewed the best hurricane tracker apps for iPhone 2019 to let you get timely alerts and monitor tropical cyclones with ease.

Based on your requirements, you can perfectly customize the apps to get precise local predictions. What’s more, they also offer you very helpful advice regarding how to deal with cyclones. Jump right in to explore them all!

Best Hurricane Tracker Apps for iPhone and iPad in 2019

#1. WeatherBug

No list of top weather apps would be complete without WeatherBug. It features an interactive map to let you instantly access all the information that matters to you.

You can use the 10-day forecasts to keep bad weather away from spoiling your party. You can take a peek at the weather conditions with 18 weather maps.

It lets you check Doppler radar in multiple countries like United States, Canada, Mexico, Alaska, and Hawaii. Even better, it also allows you to check real-time traffic conditions to avoid getting stuck on the way.

#2. The Weather Channel

“The Weather Channel” is second to none when it comes to delivering correct local weather forecasts. What makes this app a great asset is the capability to show weather forecasts for the next 15 days. You can take the utmost advantage of the predictions to plan your holidays and upcoming events perfectly.

It offers in-depth info regarding sunset times and tides to help you stay updated. The live alerts with safety alerts ensure you remain safe and can avoid bad weather. Additionally, you can upgrade to the ($3.99) premium version of the app to use it without any ads.

#3. Weather Live

When it comes to providing to-the-minute weather prediction, “Weather Live” is the one that excels. You can use this highly efficient app to access the current temperature quickly and view the accurate forecast for the coming hours and days.

The built-in hurricane Tracker shows past and current positions of tropical storms and their predicted path. Thus, you can deal with them in a better way.

The daily report with the latest weather data keeps you updated. With the help of the adjustable weather layout, you can effortlessly access only the desired info.

Additionally, the app has the support for multiple languages like English, Danish, Dutch, French, German, Indonesian, Italian, Japanese and more.

When it comes to providing to-the-minute weather prediction, “Weather Live” is the one that excels. You can use this highly efficient app to access the current temperature quickly and view the accurate forecast for the coming hours and days.

The built-in hurricane Tracker shows past and current positions of tropical storms and their predicted path. Thus, you can deal with them in a better way.

The daily report with the latest weather data keeps you updated. With the help of the adjustable weather layout, you can effortlessly access only the desired info.

#4. Dark Sky

Dark Sky is yet another full-fledged weather app that delivers the wealth of information. Rated as the number one app in weather category and having got four and a half stars out of 4.6K ratings, it’s highly appreciated by users.

With the help of your GPS, the app offers you personalized weather forecasts for your precise location. Hence, you never get caught in bad weather and plan your outing smartly.

With the top-notch radar animation, you can view the actual path of the storm. Even better, you will also be able to create custom alerts for temperature, wind, and precipitation to remain notified about what’s to come!

#5. Storm Shield

For keeping you updated about the storm and extreme weather conditions, “Storm Shield” is up to the mark. Based on your requirement, you can fine-tune the notifications to keep you notified only about preferred things.

Radar map makes it very straightforward to check out what’s happening at your selected locations. To keep the unwanted stuff away, it also lets you adjust the weather layers to show on the map. Moreover, you can make the most of the Today widget to track the weather conditions right from the lock screen.

#6. Hurricane Tracker

This one is specifically designed to let you keep track of the hurricane. The app offers real-time information and is pretty accurate. With the timely notifications, it keeps you alerted whenever new storm seems to be making its way or threatens landfall.

You can take advantage of custom graphics to track the extreme weather conditions with ease. It offers in-depth tropical wave/invest information.

Aren’t good at monitoring hurricane? No problem, you can watch the videos to learn how to get it done easily.

#7. Weather Underground

If you are in search of a complete weather app, give “Weather Underground” a serious look. Thanks to a vast network of more than 270,000 personal weather stations, it’s known to deliver hyper-local forecasts and current conditions. You can keep track of global storms using the hurricane and tropical storm tile.

With the 10-day forecasts, it keeps you a step ahead and allows you to plan your travel perfectly. The health tile works pretty well in letting you track air quality, UV risk, and local flu outbreaks.

Furthermore, you will also be able to report local weather conditions to help other people.

#8. National Hurricane Center Data

“National Hurricane Center Data” is on point when it comes to letting you access the needed information about severe weather conditions.

With the detailed satellite imagery animations, you can easily monitor the storm and its pattern. Using 10 filters, you will be able to view the storm from various perspectives.

Based on your need, you can ideally configure the app to get alerts only about things that matter to you. Additionally, this app has the support for multiple languages like English, French, and Portuguese.

#9. NOAA SuperRes Radar US

NOAA has long been one of my favorite weather apps for iOS. What stands out for this app is the ability to provide accurate 7-day forecasts and quick alerts for severe weather conditions like a flash flood, tornado, and thunderstorm.

The app features multiple map styles such as terrain, map, satellite, and hybrid to let you access the desired info without any hassle. You can tap on the warning box to view the full warning message from the National Weather Service.

Besides, you will also be able to adjust the transparency of the radar or cloud cover overlays.

#10. Hurricane: American Red Cross

“Hurricane: American Red Cross” has won several popular awards and is highly recommended by experts. The best thing about this app is that you can seamlessly customize it to get the alerts about only selected places.

It provides real-time notifications to keep you in the loop about poor weather conditions. You can keep an eye on the hazards using the live map.

It offers step-by-step instructions about what you need to do before, after or during the storm. Moreover, you can also quickly notify your friend that you are safe through Facebook, Twitter, and other mediums.

# 11 Harmany

First things first, “Harmany” is not a hurricane tracker at all. Rather, it’s a Social sharing app. The reason why this app deserves to be included in this lineup is that it can turn out to be a true savior for the needy people.

When hurricane strikes and lives are badly affected, the people of the affected regions need immediate help. And that’s when Harmany can work as a lifesaver in helping people easily find temporary shelters. The app ensures the shelter-seekers don’t have to toil hard to get much-required assistance during a crisis.

Thanks to the smart filter options, it’s pretty easy to narrow down the search and find out desired shelters. With the use of the current GPS location, it shows the map listings of all the nearby places where needy can get all the required help.

It quickly notifies nearby hosts with real-time notifications to speed up the shelter booking process. Features like direct messaging and activity sharing make sure communication doesn’t come to a halt.

What’s more, Harmany also provides local emergency alerts and forecasts so that people can remain alert and safe. As I said before, it’s not an Huricane tracker, however, I suggest you to install the same on iDevice to secure your place during ill-fated situation.

That’s it, folks!

*Courtesy of: https://www.igeeksblog.com/best-hurricane-tracker-iphone-ipad-apps/

Hoarding: A Serious Problem

7/31/2019 (Permalink)

According to The Mayo Clinic, “Hoarding disorder is a persistent difficulty discarding or parting with possessions because of a perceived need to save them. A person with hoarding disorder experiences distress at the thought of getting rid of the items. Excessive accumulation of items, regardless of actual value, occurs.” Many people with hoarding disorder do not find their habits to be a problem.

Hoarded items are often things others would throw away or look at as junk or garbage such as old newspapers, junk mail or packaging.

Hoarding can lead to homes filled with extreme clutter to full capacity from years of accumulation, making living conditions unsanitary and crowded. Bugs, fleas, rats and other vermin may be present, at which point an exterminator would need to be called. At times, hoarding may spread to outside the home as well, to storage facilities, or even the garage or yard.

SERVPRO® of Floyd County encounters hoarding situations several different ways. Often, SERVPRO® of Floyd County is called for a fire or water loss and find the hoarding situation when they arrive on-site. One of our trained professionals will communicate with the insurance company regarding their contents coverage, and after approval, contents can be packed out and possibly cleaned, dried, and stored by SERVPRO® of Floyd County, or relocated to a storage facility so work on the fire or water loss can begin.

Another way SERVPRO® of Floyd County encounters hoarding jobs is through calls from landlords, case workers, real estate agents, or family members, often after the death of a loved one. In these situations, the crew will see if they should look for any items of importance while they clean the job. Sometimes, family members will come and try to help the hoarder sort through their contents as well.

Each case is very different, and hoarding jobs are often sensitive situations, but SERVPRO® of Floyd County is here to help make it “Like it never even happened.” If you encounter a hoarding situation at one of your properties, or with your insureds, call SERVPRO® of Floyd County today at 706-802-1085.

*Courtesy of Restoration Newsline Vol 29, Iss 4

Hurricane Season is Here

7/31/2019 (Permalink)

It may seem early, but hurricane season is currently underway. For the Atlantic, the season begins June 1 and runs through November 30. The Eastern Pacific hurricane season began in mid-May and also ends November 30.

Hurricanes can be life-threatening as well as cause serious property threatening hazards such as flooding, storm surge, high winds, and tornadoes. While the primary threat is in coastal areas, many inland areas can also be affected by these hazards, as well as by secondary events such as power outages as a result of high winds and landslides due to rainfall.

Preparation is the best protection against the dangers of a hurricane. Plan an evacuation route and your emergency plan, take inventory of your property, and take steps to protect your home or business. For more information and preparation tips, visit the Ready campaign website at www.ready.gov/hurricanes.

*Courtesy of Restoration Newsline Vol 29, Iss 6

Most Common Causes of Fire in Commercial Buildings   

7/30/2019 (Permalink)

Fires due to equipment failures might make headlines but 85 percent of the fires that occur in commercial buildings are due to human error or intent, reports Maine Municipal Association Risk Management Services (MMARMS).

Over 3,000 fatalities and 18,000 injuries occur every year in the US because of fire and fires consume $10 billion in property damage costs annually. MMARMS reports that 70-80,000 workplaces experience fire every year, causing disruption of public services and utilities and the loss of valuable property and information.

Arson

Arson is the leading cause of damage, death and workplace injuries that occur in commercial buildings. Arson doesn’t just financially affect a business owner or company, it injures or kills workers and fire fighters; it results in job loss for many; and fire can easily spread to other buildings and damage public utilities.

The motive for arson might be a way to camouflage other crimes, it can be instigated by an unhappy worker or client, or arson may occur due to mental instability. Economic and political grievances may lie behind an arson attack and arson may be committed in cases of insurance fraud. Simple vandalism is another common cause of arson.

Human Error

FM Global hazards manager George Capko points out that fires in warehouses are rare compared to those that occur in commercial buildings where people work. A smoldering cigarette, a forgotten coffee pot or a paper-laden computer are common causes of commercial fires.

Fire risk increase the higher the number of people that work in a building: it’s the use of equipment rather than the equipment itself that is usually the cause of a commercial fire.

Electrical Fires

Electrical appliances or systems can start a commercial fire but often, according to Donan’s Engineering Company, people are the origin of the problem. Unqualified individuals often modify electrical circuitry. Electrical code violations committed by unreliable builders or shoddy work by repairmen can start a fire in a commercial building. Electrical equipment that is misused or overloaded can cause fires and lack of proper maintenance can have disastrous results.

Boilers, Furnaces and Water Heaters

There are strict codes and regulations concerning the installation, use and maintenance of boilers, furnaces and water heaters. Improper installation can trigger a fire in a commercial building as can lack of regular maintenance. Boiler rooms and the like are often used as storage areas, increasing the risk of fire. Combustible materials should never be stored in such areas.

 *Courtesy of: https://bizfluent.com/list-7653819-common-causes-fire-commercial-buildings.html

Most Common Causes of Fire in Commercial Buildings  

7/30/2019 (Permalink)

Fires due to equipment failures might make headlines but 85 percent of the fires that occur in commercial buildings are due to human error or intent, reports Maine Municipal Association Risk Management Services (MMARMS).

Over 3,000 fatalities and 18,000 injuries occur every year in the US because of fire and fires consume $10 billion in property damage costs annually. MMARMS reports that 70-80,000 workplaces experience fire every year, causing disruption of public services and utilities and the loss of valuable property and information.

Arson

Arson is the leading cause of damage, death and workplace injuries that occur in commercial buildings. Arson doesn’t just financially affect a business owner or company, it injures or kills workers and fire fighters; it results in job loss for many; and fire can easily spread to other buildings and damage public utilities.

The motive for arson might be a way to camouflage other crimes, it can be instigated by an unhappy worker or client, or arson may occur due to mental instability. Economic and political grievances may lie behind an arson attack and arson may be committed in cases of insurance fraud. Simple vandalism is another common cause of arson.

Human Error

FM Global hazards manager George Capko points out that fires in warehouses are rare compared to those that occur in commercial buildings where people work. A smoldering cigarette, a forgotten coffee pot or a paper-laden computer are common causes of commercial fires.

Fire risk increase the higher the number of people that work in a building: it’s the use of equipment rather than the equipment itself that is usually the cause of a commercial fire.

Electrical Fires

Electrical appliances or systems can start a commercial fire but often, according to Donan’s Engineering Company, people are the origin of the problem. Unqualified individuals often modify electrical circuitry. Electrical code violations committed by unreliable builders or shoddy work by repairmen can start a fire in a commercial building. Electrical equipment that is misused or overloaded can cause fires and lack of proper maintenance can have disastrous results.

Boilers, Furnaces and Water Heaters

There are strict codes and regulations concerning the installation, use and maintenance of boilers, furnaces and water heaters. Improper installation can trigger a fire in a commercial building as can lack of regular maintenance. Boiler rooms and the like are often used as storage areas, increasing the risk of fire. Combustible materials should never be stored in such areas.

*Courtesy of: //bizfluent.com/list-7653819-common-causes-fire-commercial-buildings.html

A Salute to First Responders

7/25/2019 (Permalink)

“When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, “Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.” This famous Mr. Rogers quote comes to mind when we celebrate first responders: those who arrive first on the scene of any disaster or emergency.

In the event of a disaster or emergency, there are many different agencies and people in your community who are ready to respond. Whether it’s a house fire or a hurricane, we are thankful every day for these first responders.

Firefighters, EMTs, and Police

Local fire and police departments, as well as Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs), are often first on the scene of an emergency. In the U.S., there are more than 29,700 fire departments with 1,160,450 total firefighters, according to the National Fire Protection Association’s 2015 U.S. Fire Department Profile.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are almost 245,000 EMTs and paramedics in the U.S. In the U.S. there are about 18,000 federal, state, county, and local law enforcement agencies, employing more than 750,000 fulltime sworn officers, according to the Uniformed Crime Reporting Program collected by the FBI.

Military

When events such as natural disasters strike, different branches of the military are often a first line of response. The Army National Guard and Air National Guard, with over 342,000 soldiers, respond domestically when deployed by their state Governor, often during states of emergency from weather-related events. They can also be called upon during terrorist attacks or civil unrest, or called overseas by the President of the United States.

Active duty soldiers can also be called upon for certain domestic events as well.

FEMA Community Emergency Response Team (CERT)

As a part of FEMA’s Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), these volunteers are trained to be prepared for any disasters that may affect your local area in an effort to support professional responders. CERT volunteers are trained in “basic disaster response skills such as fire safety, light search and rescue, team organization, and disaster medical operations,” according to FEMA.

With more than 2,700 CERT programs, over 600,000 individuals have been trained nationwide. Teams are managed locally, but supported nationally by FEMA.

SERVPRO® of Floyd County recognizes these and the countless other first responders in our communities for keeping our communities safe.

*Courtesy of Restoration Newsline Vol 29, Iss 4

Biohazard, Crime Scene, and Vandalism Cleanup

7/25/2019 (Permalink)

Recognized as a leading fire and water cleanup and restoration provider by hundreds of insurance companies, SERVPRO® of Floyd County also offers fast, reliable biohazard and crime scene cleanup* and restoration services to residential and commercial property owners.

Exposure to biological and chemical contaminants can pose serious health consequences for building occupants, employees, customers, and owners. A failure to properly handle and safely remove such hazardous substances can contribute to unhealthy and even dangerous environments.

SERVPRO® of Floyd County professionals are trained to safely and effectively remove biohazardous substances and prepare waste for proper disposal according to OSHA, EPA, and state and local health regulations.

Equipped with the necessary safety equipment and cleaning products, SERVPRO® of Floyd County helps turn unsafe environments into clean, safe homes and offices.

SERVPRO® of Floyd County can help with the following issues:

• Bloodborne Pathogens
• Methamphetamine Labs
• Crime Scene Residues
• Arson
• Vandalism 
• Sewage Backups 
• Black Water Intrusions
• Mold Mitigation and Remediation

State and local regulations vary. Contact SERVPRO® of Floyd County today at 706-802-1085 for 24-hour emergency service.

*Services vary by location

**Courtesy of Restoration Newsline Vol 29, Iss 6

Destroy Odors with Deodorization

4/3/2019 (Permalink)

Even a small fire can cause odors for years to come if the affected areas are not properly cleaned and deodorized. Fire, smoke and soot damage in your home or business can create unpleasant and potentially permanent problems.

As various materials burn, the smoke produced travels throughout the structure, leaving odorous residues and deposits on surfaces and in hard-to-reach places. Unless fast, professional action is taken, these residues and deposits can cause permanent damage to contents and may result in resurfacing odors.

With technicians certified by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration (IICRC), SERVPRO® of Floyd County professionals provide specialized services that can rid your home or business of offensive odors left by fire or smoke damage. SERVPRO® of Floyd County professionals do not cover up lingering odors with a fragrance; they seek out and remove the source of the odor. Once the source is found, SERVPRO’s own proprietary line of cleaning products is used to treat and prevent the odor from returning. Any restorable item in affected areas will also be professionally cleaned and deodorized, including furniture, draperies and upholstery, electronics, art, flooring, walls, ceilings, HVAC air ducts and more.

Ask SERVPRO® of Floyd County to explain the various deodorization methods available and which will work best for you.

If you or a customer suffer a fire damage or some other accident and require deodorization services, contact SERVPRO® of Floyd County. Whether it’s fire, water, or mold damage or just a stubborn odor that refuses to go away, we’ll help make it “Like it never even happened.”

*Courtesy of Restoration Newsline Vol 30, Iss 4

The Importance of Cleaning Dryer Vents

4/3/2019 (Permalink)

According to FEMA, failure to clean home dryers causes 34% of home dryer fires. Home dryer fires cause $35 million in property loss and can even cause injury or death.

To reduce the risk of these fires happening in your or your insured’s home or business, SERVPRO® of Floyd County can help clean dryer vents and ducts that may have lint buildup.

Other tips for keeping your dryer vents clean from the National Fire Protection Agency include cleaning the lint filter before and after each load and making sure the outdoor vent flap will open and is not restricted by snow, a bird’s nest or other potential obstacles.

For more information on proper cleaning dryer vents contact SERVPRO® of Floyd County at (706) 802-1085. 

*Courtesy of Restoration Newsline Vol 30, Iss 4

Mold Prevention

3/11/2019 (Permalink)

While there is no way to completely eliminate all of the molds and mold spores in your home, there are some steps you can take to control the amount of moisture and subsequent mold growth. While this isn’t an exhaustive list, the following are several ways to accomplish moisture control.

One way is to stop any water that could creep into your home. Fixing any leaks from appliances, pipes, or supply lines; using waterproof or water-resistant materials such as tiles, deep-sealed concrete, galvanized/stainless steel hardware, etc.; using moisture barriers over exposed dirt and having proper ventilation in crawl spaces to prevent water from the ground; and making sure gutters are properly cleaned and maintained are ways to prevent unwanted water from invading your home. Keeping this water out is key to preventing microbial growth.

Another is to keep it clean. Fabrics that are not cleaned regularly and kept in well ventilated places will breed mildew. Mold and mildew thrives in soiled, damp places. Dirty duct work can cause mold spores to circulate throughout your home without you really noticing.

The next thing to remember is to keep it dry. Using dehumidifiers, fans, and opening windows, especially during hot weather, to regulate the humidity levels in your home help inhibit the ability of mold to grow. It is ideal to keep humidity levels below 40% and reduce potential for condensation on cold surfaces by insulating around them.

Disinfecting surfaces regularly can prevent microbial growth from occurring or returning. A 10% bleach solution – 1 ¼ - 1 ½ cup bleach to a gallon of water – or a commercial disinfectant is recommended by FEMA to be most effective in removing/preventing microbial growth.

If you do find yourself with mold in your home, trust a certified professional, like SERVPRO of Floyd County, to remove it properly.

*information courtesy of FEMA Mold & Mildew Guide

Restoring Your Commercial Property After a Water Damage Event

3/11/2019 (Permalink)

Flooding and water damage events at commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.

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 Floyd County

SERVPRO of Floyd County 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.

Mold Remediation Process

3/8/2019 (Permalink)

Every mold damage scenario is different and requires a unique solution, but the general mold remediation process stays the same. The steps listed below illustrate our “typical” process

Emergency Contact - (706) 802-1085

The mold cleanup and restoration process begins when you call us. Our representative will ask a series of questions to help us determine the necessary equipment, resources, and personnel.

Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment

We carefully inspect your property for visible signs of mold. Mold feeds on cellulose and water and can be hidden from plain view. We use various technologies to detect mold and hidden water sources.

Mold Containment

Our professionals use various containment procedures to prevent the spread of mold. We may use advanced containment procedures like negative air chambers to isolate the contaminated area with physical barriers and negative air pressure to keep the mold spores from spreading during the cleanup process. All fans and heating and cooling systems will be turned off to prevent the spread of mold.

Air Filtration

Our specialized filtration equipment allows our Professionals to capture microscopic mold spores out of the air. We utilize powerful “air scrubbers” and HEPA vacuums to prevent the spread of these mold spores while the mold remediation is in process.

Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials

The mold remediation process depends on the amount of mold growth and the types of surfaces on which the mold appears. We’ll use antifungal and antimicrobial treatments to eliminate mold colonies and to help prevent new colonies from forming. It may be necessary to remove and dispose of mold-infested porous materials, like drywall and carpeting, to remediate heavy mold growth.

Cleaning Contents and Belongings

We clean your furniture, decorative items, curtains, clothing, and other restorable items affected by mold. We use a variety of cleaning techniques to clean and disinfect your belongings. We’re also trained to remove odors and deodorization using fogging equipment.

Restoration

Depending on the level of mold damage, drywall, subfloors, and other building materials may have been removed. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet; or it may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business. The restoration step gets your home or business back to normal.

Trust the professionals at SERVPRO of Floyd County to help with any mold remediation needs.

* https://www.SERVPROfloydcountyga.com/mold-removal-process

March is American Red Cross Month

3/7/2019 (Permalink)

Founded in 1881, the American Red Cross is a charitable organization that relies on donations and volunteers to carry out their mission. Whether it is disaster relief, blood donations, military family support, or training and certification in CPR, life-guarding, first aid, and more, the Red Cross is committed to helping those who need it most. The American Red Cross is part of the Global Red Cross Network, the world’s largest volunteer network found in 187 countries, according to redcross.org.

Every year, March is declared Red Cross Month by the President of the United States. The American Red Cross celebrates by honoring the “everyday heroes” who support and carry out the mission of the Red Cross by donating, giving blood, taking a class, or volunteering. To learn more about the American Red Cross, or about how you can get involved, visit redcross.org.

Be Flood Smart

3/6/2019 (Permalink)

Floods are one of the most common and widespread natural disasters in the United States. Whether your home or business is near a coastline, along city streets, in the mountains, near a river or even in the desert-there is always potential for flood damage. Floodsmart.gov reports, in the last five years, all 50 states have experienced floods or flash floods.

According to the American Red Cross (ARC), floods cause more damage in the U.S. every year than any other weather-related disaster. The ARC offers the following flood safety tips.

• Stay away from floodwaters. If you come up on a flowing stream where water is above your ankles, stop, turn around and go another way. Six inches of swiftly moving water can sweep you off of your feet.
• If you approach a flooded road while driving, turn around and go another way. If you are caught on a flooded road and waters are rising rapidly around you, get out of the car quickly and move to higher ground. Most cars can be swept away by less than two feet of moving water.
• Keep children out of the water. They are curious and often lack judgment about running water or contaminated water.

If a flood does strike your home or business, contact SERVPRO® of Floyd County. Even minor floods have the potential to cause major damage to a structure when not treated quickly and properly, and the cleanup is often an overwhelming task. The SERVPRO® System is prepared to handle any size disaster. When fire and water take control of your life, SERVPRO® of Floyd County will help you take it back.

* Courtesy of Restoration Newsline Vol 30, Iss 3

Faster to Any Size Disaster: Cleaning After a Commercial Fire

3/1/2019 (Permalink)

Mitigation requires quick action. The faster SERVPRO® of Floyd County arrives on-site to perform fire, smoke, and soot cleanup and restoration, the better the results—including lower claim costs. Within four hours of loss notification, SERVPRO® of Floyd County will be on-site to help ensure a fire damage is handled by utilizing the following services.

Structural Cleaning

After a smoke or fire damage, ceilings, walls, woodwork, carpeting, and floors will often need a thorough cleaning. The experienced professionals at SERVPRO® of Floyd County will pretest to determine the extent of damage, then use the specific equipment and cleaning products required to clean and protect the different types of surfaces found in your insured’s structure.

Contents Cleaning

All of the restorable contents in affected areas will be professionally cleaned and deodorized. This includes area rugs, furniture, draperies, and upholstery. SERVPRO® of Floyd County can provide wet or dry cleaning services. Additionally, all the other restorable contents will be cleaned and deodorized to preloss condition. This includes electronics, art, wood furniture, kitchen items, and much more. Finally, SERVPRO® of Floyd County can provide an inventory list of all “to be claimed” items for your insured.

Deodorization

SERVPRO® of Floyd County provides specialized services that rid your insured’s place of business of offensive odors left by fire or smoke damage. SERVPRO® of Floyd County does not merely cover up lingering odors with a fragrance; they seek out the sources of the odor and remove them. 

Carbon Monoxide: A Silent Cold Weather Killer

2/13/2019 (Permalink)

Carbon monoxide is a gas you cannot see, taste, or smell. According to ready.gov, an average of 430 Americans die each year from unintentional carbon monoxide poisoning. Oftentimes, it is a result of faulty, improperly used, or vented consumer products like furnaces, ranges, water heaters, room heaters, and engine-powered equipment, such as portable generators.

However, there are precautions you can take to help protect yourself, your family, and your employees from deadly carbon monoxide fumes. 

Reduce the chance of carbon monoxide exposure in your workplace by performing regular maintenance on equipment and appliances that can produce carbon monoxide. Install carbon monoxide detectors on every level of the home, including outside of all bedrooms. 

Consider having all fuel-burning heating equipment and chimneys serviced annually by a professional. Use portable generators on in well-ventilated areas aware from doors, windows, vents, and any other openings to prevent fumes from entering the home.

For additional carbon monoxide safety information, visit usfa.fema.gov or osha.gov.

*Courtesy of Restoration Newsline Vol 30, Iss 1

Follow These Mold Safety Tips if You Suspect Mold

2/13/2019 (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 of Floyd County 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 of Floyd County 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 – 706-802-1085

Dangers of Extreme Cold

1/7/2019 (Permalink)

While your home can get damaged due to winter weather and extreme cold, your personal health is also at risk.

Fifty-three people died and three were injured due to extreme cold in 2015.

It is important to be aware of the effect extremely cold temperatures can have on you. The two main conditions to be aware of are frostbite and hypothermia.

Frostbite is caused when your skin is exposed to extremely cold temperatures. Physical symptoms are white or grayish-yellow skin, skin that feels unusually firm, or waxy numbness.

Hypothermia is when your body temperature falls to an abnormally low temperature, caused from long exposure to cold weather. Signs of hypothermia include shivering, exhaustion, confusion, fumbling hands, memory loss, slurred speech, and drowsiness. If someone’s body temperature is below 95°F, seek medical attention immediately.

To avoid these conditions, stay indoors if possible. If not, dress warm in layers and try to keep dry.

Source: ready.gov/winter-weather