Emergency Preparedness for Storm Season

4/22/2024 (Permalink)

Tree falling damage

Emergency Preparedness for Storm Season

With hurricane season approaching, it's crucial to be prepared for potential storm emergencies, such as tree damage. Don't wait for disaster to strike—take proactive steps to ensure the safety of your property. Here are five essential measures to follow for emergency tree removal.

1. Identify and Remove Hazardous Trees:
   Address the risk before a storm by identifying and removing old or diseased trees that are prone to falling during extreme weather conditions. This preemptive action can significantly reduce the potential damage to your property.
2. Prioritize Safety:
   In the event of a fallen tree, prioritize the safety of everyone involved. Confirm that everyone is unharmed, and if necessary, evacuate the property if it poses any immediate danger.
3. Ensure Power Lines' Safety:
   Check for any hanging wires or power lines and if identified, immediately alert the police and power company. Never attempt to handle these situations yourself, as they can be hazardous.
4. Notify Your Insurance Company:
   Contact your insurance company as soon as possible after a tree damage incident. If it is safe to do so, take pictures of the property and document the affected areas.
5. Seek Professional Mitigation and Cleanup Services:
   Engage the services of a trusted local mitigation and emergency storm cleanup provider, such as SERVPRO of South Durham. Their skilled team will promptly address your needs, offering roof tarping, board-up services, and water cleanup if necessary. Taking these steps not only aids your insurance claim but also helps safeguard your property from potential intruders.

Extra Tip:
When it comes to emergencies, it's best to have a reliable restoration and storm cleanup company in mind beforehand. Contact SERVPRO of South Durham to receive a free Emergency Readiness Plan. This comprehensive guide will equip you with all the necessary steps and information needed for storm damage, water damage, fire damage, and cleanup scenarios.
At SERVPRO of South Durham, we understand the importance of acting swiftly during emergencies. Our highly trained technicians are available 24/7 to respond to any size disaster, employing their expertise to deliver efficient restoration and cleaning services. Trust us to handle the situation seamlessly and ensure that it's "Like it never happened." Contact us today for more information on how we can assist you.

Have you ever wondered if there is a connection between the air we breathe indoors and water intrusion?

3/21/2024 (Permalink)

Water intrusion

The answer is nuanced and depends on how the water intrusion is handled. We will explore the correlation between water intrusion and indoor air quality and shed light on the importance of proper mitigation and drying techniques to prevent compromising the air we breathe.

Generally, a water intrusion that is promptly and properly mitigated will have no negative impact on indoor air quality. For instance, if a burst hot water tank occurs in an apartment, home, or workplace and is handled promptly, the indoor air quality should remain unaffected. The key lies in how quickly the structure is dried and if it follows the IICRC S500 standards for structural drying.

A crucial aspect of preventing any adverse effects on indoor air quality is ensuring that both visible water and bound water are addressed during the mitigation process. While visible water is apparent and can be easily dried, bound water poses a greater challenge, as it seeps into hard-to-reach areas such as wall boards, drywall, and floor joists.

To mitigate bound water effectively, it is essential to engage the services of a true professional water restoration company. These experts utilize specialized moisture reading equipment to map out the extent of water intrusion and take the necessary steps to dry the structure thoroughly, in accordance with the IICRC S500 standards. Only by adhering to these standards can one be assured that no mold or microbial growth will occur, protecting the indoor air quality.

At SERVPRO of South Durham, we understand the critical importance of properly mitigating water intrusions to safeguard indoor air quality. Our team is available 24/7 to address any water-related emergencies promptly and efficiently. We employ the latest equipment and follow industry best practices to ensure your structure is thoroughly dried and restored, in strict adherence to the IICRC S500 standards Water intrusion, if not timely and adequately mitigated, can lead to mold or microbial growth, subsequently impacting indoor air quality. However, by entrusting the task to a professional water restoration company like SERVPRO of South Durham, you can be confident in the preservation of your indoor air quality. Don't hesitate to call if your home or office experiences a water intrusion—we're here to help!

Why Choose SERVPRO?

3/21/2024 (Permalink)

Why Choose us?

As an Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) Certified Firm, we uphold the highest standards in the industry to ensure exceptional service and customer satisfaction. Here's what it means to be IICRC certified with us:

?? Continuing Education: Our technicians engage in ongoing training to stay abreast of industry advancements and best practices, guaranteeing top-notch service for every job.

??? Liability Protection: We maintain liability insurance to safeguard all parties involved in case of unexpected accidents, providing peace of mind and financial security.

?? Complaint Resolution: With a written complaint policy and a commitment to honest business practices, we resolve disputes promptly and fairly under the guidance of the Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration services.

?? Consumer Transparency: We prioritize accuracy and integrity in all client interactions, presenting accurate information and conducting business with transparency and honesty at every turn.

?? Expert Technicians: Each job is handled by a trained technician who has passed all required tests, ensuring proficiency, professionalism, and quality in our restoration services.

?? Evolution of Standards: We stay ahead of the curve by continuously reviewing and updating our practices in alignment with the evolving standards of the IICRC. Our commitment to excellence drives us to deliver top-tier water damage restoration services, informed by the latest in technology and scientific advancements. ????

Trust SERVPRO of South Durham for IICRC-certified expertise that goes beyond industry norms to deliver exceptional results and unmatched customer satisfaction. Contact us today for all your restoration needs! ????

Sparky, No Sparking!

7/19/2022 (Permalink)

House Fire

Today marks National Pet Fire Safety Day. National Pet Fire Safety Day takes place every year on July 15^th and is meant to provide fire education and fire safety tips to prevent your pet from starting a fire and keeping your pet safe during a fire. According to WRAL.com, just three weeks ago in Hillsborough, North Carolina a single mother and her three kids are starting over after a fire destroyed their home and killed all the family’s pets! Orange Rural Fire Department spent hours getting the fire under control that likely started in the kitchen. Our pets are many times the culprit behind residential fires. If not the culprit, almost always the victim! The American Red Cross states, “that residential fires are the most common disaster that the organization responds to, yet the most preventable.” However, the most effective way “to protect your pets from the effect of a fire is to include them in the family emergency escape plan.” Take time to visit the American Red Cross website today, on National Pet Fire Safety Day, to get tips on how to prevent your pet from starting and fire and how to keep them safe during a fire. Lastly, if you experience the unfortunate event of a fire loss, the most important thing to remember is that SERVPRO Of South Durham is by your side every step of the way to get life back to normal. “Like it never even happened!”

When you think, “Cleaning. Restoration. Construction.” Think SERVPRO of South Durham!

We’re The Boss At Restoring Water Loss!

7/11/2022 (Permalink)

Residential flooding

Let’s face it: if you are a homeowner, business owner of any kind, tenant, or just a regular human – you’ve experienced a water loss. Depending on the sense of urgency, the resolution is time-consuming and inconvenient resulting in highly costly repairs, displacement sometimes, and in the worst-case scenario irrevocable damage to personal contents. However, your time, money, and contents can be saved. Any resident or business can achieve this by working with a professional, dependable emergency restoration company like SERVPRO of South Durham. As professionals, the first thing we do when your home or business encounters a water loss is to respond immediately! This is important because the amount of time that passes is the amount of time you and the structure are exposed to water damage. The next step is the inspection and water damage assessment of the environment. The inspection and water damage assessment is important because the skill level and experience of your water damage restoration specialist determine how the environment is assessed and what solutions will be employed. Improper inspection leads to improper drying techniques possibly leading to even more costly secondary damage and microbial growth. At SERVPRO of South Durham, our water restoration technicians are IICRC certified and trained to properly address and resolve your water loss according to a set of nationally certified, accredited, and accepted practices by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification organization. The next two steps, water removal/extraction, and drying/dehumidification are easily deployed and effective with proper training and knowledge. However, the extraction and drying process are also the two areas where mistakes and ill-advised practices are used resulting in the costliest damage to the structure, contents, and customer experience. Once our water restoration technicians at SERVPRO of South Durham mitigate the water damage, the next step is to begin restoring your life and home or business to preloss conditions. That begins with cleaning and sanitizing the affected environment. This is where the magic begins! We restore your meaningful contents by effectively cleaning, odor removal, and deodorizing then sanitizing with antimicrobial, antibacterial, and disinfectants to assure the highest quality of clean to the affected environment. What can’t be restored, with guidance from you and your insurance adjuster will be properly disposed of and replaced. Restoration, the final step, is the actual process of restoring your business or home to its pre-water loss condition. Restore could involve minor repairs like replacing drywall or major repairs like full-scale reconstruction. No matter how big or small a job, our fully staffed construction team is ready and equipped with the knowledge, tools, and equipment to get any business up and running or any house, home! Don’t let water loss drown your home or business.

When you think, “Cleaning. Restoration. Construction.” Think SERVPRO of South Durham!

WHY SERVPRO of South Durham

7/1/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO staff arriving on a commercial job site

Recently, while out eating at a restaurant, the friend with whom I was eating requested hot sauce for their meal. The waiter presented a popular brand of hot sauce for my friend. My friend politely asked if they carried Frank’s Red Hot. Immediately, the thought came to me: SERVPRO of South Durham is the Frank’s Red Hot sauce of the restoration industry! Meaning you can use SERVPRO services for anything. Much of the success of Frank Red Hot sauce has been the idea that it can be used to spice up any food in its original state of taste. The recent success, increase in customer service, and increased breadth of SERVPRO services is a result of applying the same business strategy to offer the customer a complete suite of services to address any unexpected loss, catastrophe, or diaster that a residential or commercial may experience; no matter the size of loss or time of day that the loss occurs. So whether insurance agent, tenant, property manager, residential or commercial; contact SERVPRO of South Durham for any of your water, fire, storm damage, mold, specialty cleaning services (including COVID, biohazard, and vandalism), or full-scale reconstruction needs. That includes unit turns and renovations for commercial and residential properties! So, the next time you experience an emergency loss and you’re questioning if our services cover your loss – remember you can use SERVPRO of South Durham services for every type of loss!

When you think, “Cleaning. Restoration. Construction.” Think SERVPRO of South Durham!

And The Rocket’s Red Glare; Fireworks Bursting In Air

7/1/2022 (Permalink)

Family watching fireworks

Every year around this time as the July heat starts to take control of the summer, residents in NC and Durham begin to prepare for the 4^th of July holiday weekend! For many North Carolinians, this is an opportunity to connect with family and friends, host weekend events and cookouts, and enjoy a much-needed break from work! This is also a time for many to gather in the back yards and open fields of the Carolina countryside to display both consumer and professional grade pyrotechnics (fireworks). This time of the year has also inherently become associated with pyrotechnic-related injuries and fire damage. The Consumer Product Safety Commission estimates that 9,100 injuries seen in hospital emergency rooms in 2018 were pyrotechnic related. The CPSC also contained reports of at least 5 direct firework-related deaths in the year. Burns accounted for 44 percent, with males accounting for around two-thirds of the firework-related injuries. The numbers don’t just stop there. The National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) estimated that 19,500 fires were started by pyrotechnics and reported to local fire departments in 2018 resulting in $105 million in direct property damage. Secondary brush, grass, or forest fires accounted for 3 of every 5 reported fires started by fireworks during that time. In all, focusing on just the Fourth of July half (49 percent) of the reported fires on that day was started by fireworks! The absolute best pyrotechnic prevention in place is to avoid use and watch professional shows where available and when permitted. However, in the event of personal injury or property damage when using pyrotechnics, call 911. Shall property damage occur, it is best to have an emergency cleanup, restoration, and reconstruction company such as SERVPRO of South Durham to mitigate any secondary fire and smoke damage that occurs from pyrotechnic fire damage. Whether fire and smoke damage, odor control, upholstery, fabric cleaning, or water damage restoration, our restoration specialists are specially certified and trained with a restore v. replace strategy to offer the most added value cost-effective solutions to return your home or structure to preloss condition. For more information on how to celebrate for Fourth of July responsibly and operate pyrotechnics safely, visit the City Of Durham website.

When you think, “Cleaning. Restoration. Construction.” Think SERVPRO of South Durham!

When It Rains You Need an Umbrella: Why Flood Insurance is Important

6/22/2022 (Permalink)

Last week’s blog post discussed the start of hurricane season and how to prepare your home or business against damage. This week’s blog will discuss the importance of flood insurance in the event of a water loss. This is especially important during hurricane season for those living in North Carolina and residing in flood-prone areas. The News & Observer quotes the North Carolina Hurricane Guide as stating, “that 1 inch of water can cost up to $25,000 or more in cleanup and repair!” Interestingly, most homeowners’ insurance and renter’s insurance do not typically cover flood damage. What’s more shocking is that most homeowners and renters are unaware that their policies do not cover flood damage until they experience water loss from an occurrence such as a hurricane or roof leak. At that point, it is too late and the customer is forced to pay out of pocket or use other sources of funding to cover cleanup, restoration, and reconstruction expenses. The average flood insurance claim is $69,000! It is recommended every homeowner and business owner purchase flood insurance; this normally is purchased separately and in addition to your home or business insurance policy. The N.C. Department of Insurance warns against not purchasing flood insurance “because your home is not in a designated flood plain.” Do not assume your home or business will never incur flood damage. In the event, your home or business does experience water or flood damage contact SERVPRO of South Durham! We have an experienced team led by an IICRC Certified Master Water Restorer and highly trained and IICRC certified Water Restoration Technicians, that allow us to quickly respond to losses of all sizes and quickly work to minimize the chances of further damage from flooding or leaks. The most comforting benefit of working with SERVPRO of South Durham during your water loss emergency is that we are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week!

When you think, “Cleaning. Restoration. Construction.” Think SERVPRO of South Durham!

Batten Down the Hatches

6/10/2022 (Permalink)

Just days ago, Tropical Storm Alex, the first named storm of the 2022 Atlantic Hurricane season, matured off the coast of North Carolina. North Carolina Hurricane season typically runs between June 1^st and November 30^th. While Tropical Storm Alex posed no significant damage, the propensity for damage caused by tropical depressions, storms, and a hurricane is great; many times resulting in not only damage but the loss of life. When living in a hurricane-prone geographic area, it is imperative to have a plan in place when a hurricane strikes. Weather.gov provides several foundations for hurricane preparation. It’s important to know the characteristics of hurricanes to plan effectively for landfall. For instance, did you know that storm surge causes the most damage of any of the hurricane hazards? Or that winds from a hurricane can reach up to 200 miles per hour! In retrospect, knowing the characteristics of a hurricane and the hazards they bring can help you better plan in the event one should occur. If you live in a hurricane-prone area, residential and commercial tenants should reevaluate their insurance policy to ensure hazards from hurricanes are covered. So flood insurance, storm damage, and fire coverage should be included. Regular upkeep of the exterior of the home is essential. Broken branches, loose yard furniture, or poor grading increase the likelihood of extensive damage to your structure. The most important part of your hurricane preparation plan should be who to call that can immediately respond in the event you experience storm damage. At SERVPRO of South Durham our Storm Damage Repair Specialists, along with a network of strategically positioned storm teams are on standby and available to assist with cleanup, restoration, and construction 24/7, 365 days a year. Whether water restoration from flooding, fire damage from lighting, or reconstruction from storm damage, SERVPRO of South Durham is here to help reverse the damage “Like it never even happened.”

When you think, “Cleaning. Restoration. Construction.” Think SERVPRO of South Durham!

Who You Gonna Call (…Not Ghostbusters)!

6/6/2022 (Permalink)

Commercial loss is a common thing in business. Whether it’s a loss from storm damage similar to the damage caused by a recent tornado that touched down in Durham back in early May; or the main pipeline burst resulting in 100,000 ft² of 2-inch standing water in the showroom. “Where’s it coming from?” “What do we do?” “Who do we call?” “What’s the telephone number?” “Are they open 24-hours?” “Should we inform the Operations Manager?” “Will we be able to work from the loss site?” These are all common questions that employees and leadership employed by any business should know. This is especially important for commercial entities due to the size, volume, and generally, the importance of the service or product. Too often, commercial employers and leadership are caught blindsided by losses that should eventually be expected to occur in the normal operation of the business. The best solution for combating commercial loss is preparation! SERVPRO of South Durham offers the perfect online tool and application called an Emergency Plan Profile (ERP). The ERP provides a centralized location for information when a loss happens. It will help minimize interruptions and promote timely solutions by providing a protocol for what to do, who to call, and where the tangible or mobile emergency information is located. The Emergency Ready Profile includes:

• A no cost assessment of your commercial facility
• A critical information document that streamlines the recovery process in the event of an emergency
• Establishes the local SERVPRO of South Durham as your emergency
• Identify the line of command for authorizing work and access to the loss site
• Provides priority facility locations such as shut off valves, gas lines, and exits

As discussed earlier, preparation is the key component in ensuring your commercial business is ready for the next commercial-sized loss. “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!

When you think, “Cleaning. Restoration. Construction.” Think SERVPRO of South Durham!