Landslide Safety and Preparedness

1/4/2023 (Permalink)

Landslides are an unfortunate reality for many people. They can occur on steep slopes and in areas that have been affected by natural disasters or human activity. Landslides can be caused by flooding, earthquakes, heavy rainfall or snowmelt, volcanic eruptions, erosion due to poor forest management practices, or construction activities. Landslide occurrences are most likely to happen in mountainous regions where steep hillsides are common and soil moisture is abundant. 

Even if you don't live in an area known for landslides you should still take precautions because it's not uncommon for people living near potential slide zones to experience one unexpectedly — especially during the spring thawing season when rapid changes in temperature can cause ground cracking which may trigger a landslide downslope from your house!

Warning Signs for Landslides

• Rapid swelling or cracking of the ground.
• Changes in water flow and level.
• Sudden appearance of cracks, fissures, or bulges on the surface.
• Steep slopes showing new movement after heavy rain.

If you think you’re at risk for landslides, there are several things you can do to prepare. You can check for signs of past landslides, create a map showing the location of your property and any nearby slopes prone to movement, and consider moving building materials (including furniture) away from the edge of steep slopes.

How to Prepare for a Landslide

To stay safe during a landslide, there are three things you can do:

• Get an evaluation of your property on the ground.
• Build far from natural erosion valleys, drainage channels, mountain edges, steep slopes, or steep slopes.
• Discover your region's emergency response and evacuation strategies. Create an emergency plan for your family or business on your own.

The most important thing you can do is to prepare for a landslide. The more prepared you are, the less likely it will be that your home or business will be damaged.

How to Respond to a Landslide

• Remain awake and aware. People often die in debris flows while they are asleep. For warnings of heavy rain, tune in to a NOAA Weather Radio or a portable, battery-operated radio or television.
• If it is safe to do so, think about evacuating if you are in a location where landslides and debris flows are a possibility. Keep in mind that driving during a severe thunderstorm might be dangerous.
• If you're close to a stream or channel, keep an eye out for any rapid changes in water flow—such as a switch from clear water to muddy water—or changes in terrain (elevation) on either side of the creek bed.
• If there is no place else for shelter and/or evacuation is not possible, stay away from the slide area when rockfall begins but avoid direct contact with wet rocks because they may be extremely slippery until they dry out.

What to Do After a Landslide?

• Avoid the area around the slide. There could be a risk of more slides.
• For the most recent emergency information, tune in to local radio or television stations.
• Without going into the area directly affected by the slide, search the region for any injured or trapped people.
• Help a neighbor who might need particular help, such as a newborn, an old person, or a person with a disability.

The best way to prepare for landslides is to be aware of the dangers and take proactive measures. By doing so, you can help your property and those around you avoid costly damages and even injury. If a landslide does occur, respond quickly to minimize damage.

What To Know About Storm Damage and Flooding

8/30/2022 (Permalink)

A flooded office in Las Vegas, NV

Storm Damage and Flooding

It’s important to know that storm damage and flood damage are different things although both can affect your business. Here are a few things you may want to know about these types of damage.

1. Both Can Occur Multiple Ways

Both flooding and storm damage can occur a number of ways. Storms can bring high winds, heavy rain, hail, and freezing temperatures all of which can lead to damage. Flooding can be caused by a storm too, but can also occur from a pipe break, sewer backup or overflowing drainage. Understanding that these are two separate things will help you be prepared for these event to happen regardless of if the weather is stormy.

2. Both Should Be Handled Quickly

Both storm and flood damage should be handled quickly. This means removing the water so it can’t soak in, and thoroughly drying the area. It’s also important to make sure you know the source so that you can mitigate future problem. Fortunately, a restoration service can help.

3. A Restoration team Can Help

Contacting a local water damage restoration service is an important part of the repair process as these professionals are trained to deal with a variety of water damage types, including storm caused damages and flooding. They can access the damage, make repairs, and restore the property to pre-damage conditions. These professionals can also help with item cleaning, item storage during restoration, and may even be able to repair electronics and help back up important files. Many restoration professionals can also work directly with your insurance agent.

Remember that storm damage and flood damage are different things and business in Las Vegas, NV might be affected by one without the other, or both at the same time. Each type of damage can occur a number of ways and in both cases the damage should be repaired as quickly as possible. Fortunately a restoration service can help.

3 Important Flood Safety Tips

7/23/2022 (Permalink)

Make an emergency kit.

Flood Safety Tips

When there is severe weather in Showboat, NV, it is important to stay safe. If you wait until an emergency occurs, it may be too late, so you should make sure that you are prepared beforehand. Here is some flood safety advice that you should keep in mind when it is storming or flooding.

1. Make an Emergency Kit

If you know that there may be a storm in the area, you should gather a few things in case it becomes an emergency. It is possible that the power may go out, so always keep a flashlight and extra batteries in your kit. A radio can be helpful as well, so you can keep track of the weather. Always include canned foods and bottled water and store these in a safe location.

2. Avoid Flood Waters

When considering flood safety, it is a good idea to stay inside, as driving can be dangerous. If your home has more than one level, you should stay on the upper floors in case the waters enter the house. These waters are considered Category 3 or black water which means they are highly contaminated. You should avoid coming into contact with them and never consume any food or beverages that have been in the water.

3. Relocate if Necessary

While one of the most important safety tips is to avoid driving on a flooded road, there are some cases when you may need to evacuate your home. Ideally, this would be done before the streets become unsafe for travel. Keep updated with the news to determine if this is something that you will need to do.

During a storm, flood safety is an important thing to consider. Use these tips to ensure that you and your family are prepared for any emergencies. If your home is damaged during the disaster, contact an emergency restoration service to perform mitigation and repairs.

2 Types of Commercial Generators and Their Life Expectancies

4/21/2022 (Permalink)

The key to a long life expectancy and avoiding generator problems is to get the right one for your business.

Two Types of Commercial Generators

The lifespan of your generator for your business in Fremont Street, NV, depends on many things. One of these factors is the fuel that is used to power the machine. Here are the two most common types and their life expectancies.

1. Diesel Powered

A standard diesel generator can last anywhere from 10,000 to 30,000 hours. To reach the higher end of this spectrum, you need to engage in regular preventative maintenance. You will find that adding a monthly examination will help you identify problems and take action. Typically, you will also change the oil, check the water levels, and replace your filters every year.
Additionally, if you want your machine to keep running while you wait on the storm cleanup crew, you should get the right size for your building. If it is too large, it can be plagued with wet stacking and carbon buildup. Too small, and you can put too much strain on the engine. Once you reach the end of its life, you should consider replacing it rather than going for an overhaul. This is because newer technology can produce a more efficient engine with a longer life expectancy.

2. Natural Gas Powered

Another type of generator that is growing in popularity is powered by natural gas. However, these operate at higher RPMs, meaning more wear and tear on the engine over time. Therefore, these tend to have shorter life expectancies. Typically, these can last around 3,000 hours in a commercial setting. This makes them good for businesses that are not in danger of losing power due to storms often.

The key to a long life expectancy and avoiding generator problems is to get the right one for your business. This means choosing between a machine powered by diesel or natural gas, picking the right size for your business, and using proper maintenance techniques to extend its life.

After the Storm: What To Expect During the Restoration Process

3/24/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Downtown Las Vegas is the best in the restoration business.

Storm Restoration Process

It can be difficult to comprehend the type of damage a violent storm can do to your Downtown, NV, home. Flooding, damaged building materials, and soaked furniture are just a few problems you may be dealing with in the wake of a storm. A professional flood damage company can help your home recover. Knowing what to expect during the process, from tear-out services to water drainage, may help you feel more confident about the outcome.

Storm Mitigation

When a powerful storm causes water damage to your home, it is important to contain the water. Preventing its spread can help reduce these future problems:

• Rapid mold growth
  
• Swelling and warping of wood
  
• High humidity
  
  

When a storm damage service arrives, they will likely act to prevent floodwaters from spreading to dry areas. Rooms that contain electronic components, such as fuse boxes or thermostats, may be drained first to prevent long-term damage to these systems.

Water and Debris Drainage

A storm restoration service will probably bring in a variety of machinery to drain away flood water. When outdoor flooding invades your home, it may bring in not only water, but debris that includes dead leaves, mud, and garbage as well. Trash pumps and portable sump pumps can drain away this waste so your flood technicians can continue with tear-out services and other restoration actions.

Flood Cuts and Drywall Replacement

Because many building materials are porous, such as drywall, they can absorb and retain flood water. This can cause rotting and damage of interior wall components, including insulation. Your storm damage and restoration service techs may perform a flood cut into the drywall about a foot above the water line to assess such issues and to gauge what kind of repairs might be needed.

When violent storms impact Downtown, NV, it can be difficult to know what to expect once repairs begin. Learning about tear-out services and other restorative actions may help give you peace of mind about the future state of your home.

The Top 5 Storm Preparation Tips

11/18/2021 (Permalink)

Gather first aid materials, flashlights, and a battery-operated radio.

Steps To Prepare For a Storm

Preparing for a storm may reduce the amount of wind or water damage sustained by a commercial property in Downtown, NV. Property owners or maintenance supervisors should follow these five steps to prepare for a storm, keep flood water out, or deal with a flooded building.

1. Develop a Storm Response Plan

In the event of a storm, there should be no confusion regarding responsibilities. A building owner or maintenance supervisor can delegate tasks such as boarding up or taping windows, making and placing sandbags to keep out flood water, or storing loose external objects such as antennas or trash containers.

2. Keep Drainage Systems Clear

Functional drainage systems prevent rainwater from accumulating and causing leaks from the roof or around the foundation of a building. An owner or maintenance supervisor should schedule drainage cleaning and maintenance at least twice a year. Reduce the amount of debris and the risk of storm damage by having overhanging tree branches pruned.

3. Assemble an Emergency Kit

A storm emergency kit should include supplies for personnel as well as property. Gather first aid materials, flashlights, and a battery-operated radio. Keep sandbag materials or alternatives, plywood, duct tape or masking tape, and hand tools on site.

4. Acquire and Maintain a Generator

Property owners may want to obtain a commercial standby generator. This device can provide almost uninterrupted power to critical systems with an automatic transfer switch. Store enough fuel to power the generator for several days.

5. Keep Track of Important Numbers

Ensure that important phone numbers are easily accessible. An owner or maintenance supervisor may need to contact an electricity or gas company or notify a business insurance provider of damage after a storm.

These tips can help owners and maintenance supervisors prepare for severe storms in Downtown, NV. If flood water breaches a building, contact storm and water damage mitigation specialists.

The Easiest Way To Remove 2 Feet of Water From a Basement

10/27/2021 (Permalink)

A flooded basement in Las Vegas, NV.

How To Remove Water From a Basement

When an inch of flood water shows up in your basement, you can typically remove it with a standard wet/dry vacuum. However, when the damage becomes more extensive and exceeds two feet, you need to hire a professional service with heavy-duty equipment. That level of water damage is beyond most people’s capabilities to remedy, but experts in Las Vegas, NV know how to handle that much water, contaminated or not.

1. Move Everything Out

The first thing professionals will do is take everything out of the basement. From large pieces of furniture to articles of clothing, the experts will remove everything to prevent additional flood or mold damage. This also makes it easier for the crew to bring in the necessary gear. A sump pump can take up a considerable amount of space.

2. Pump Out the Water

When it is clean, regular water, professionals in Las Vegas, NV can typically get by using standard pumping equipment. However, if gray or black water has entered your home, then they will need to bring in a trash pump. This is a specially designed pump that is meant to remove sludge, sand, leaves, and other pieces of debris that have comingled with the water. Once a majority of the liquid has been removed, a wet/dry vacuum can be brought in to take care of small patches of water and any debris left behind.

3. Dehumidify

Once all the water is gone, the basement still needs to be restored. The drywall may need to be removed and replaced, or the experts may be able to restore it depending on the extent of the damage. The professionals will promote ventilation in the affected area. Odor removal is a critical part of this process because the odor left behind by sewage or mold can enter every room of a building. Most residential properties will not have the equipment necessary to handle such tasks, so it is vital to bring in experts.

3 Losses Covered by Business Interruption Insurance

10/27/2021 (Permalink)

Rain storm-damaged office building in Downtown, NV.

Three Different Types of Coverage an Interruption Policy Offers

While a base insurance policy covers the damage done to a building, they often do not cover the cost of lost revenue. Business interruption insurance pays for various costs associated with each day that a building is unused during a rebuild or repair. Here are three different types of coverage an interruption policy offers.

1. Contingent Business Interruption

CBI coverage pays for income loss related to damaged property owned by others relevant to your business. These are suppliers or receivers that you have a history with. The damage needs to be a relevant event from the coverage offered by your policy. For example, if your plan only has storm damage, the supplier would have to be affected by storm damage for the policy to be actionable. CBI coverage secures your operations from a supply chain disruption.

2. Actual Loss Sustained

As the most basic feature of a business interruption policy, the actual loss sustained covers the damage from an interruption to operations from a covered event. If the damage is severe enough to merit rebuilding or repair over an extended time, the insurer will pay for income loss for your closed business up to the policy limit. This covered period goes from the day the damage happens up until the repair service by a timely, professional commercial damage restoration company finishes.

3. Service Interruption

When utilities are damaged, it may not be an easy fix. Equipment, substations or line routes on your business property may suffer damage that makes the service otherwise inoperable. These can be covered if on your property and with the appropriate policy. The damage must be from a peril that your insurance policy covers.

Insurance can be enhanced to account for everything from a period of closure for your business in Downtown, NV. A potential rebuild doesn’t have to make you consider permanently shutting down your business. With adequate coverage, your business building and operations are secure from severe loss.

That Isn’t a Mud Bath: How To Clean Sewage Backup From Your Bathtub

9/9/2021 (Permalink)

After everything is clean, you still have a job to do.

A sewer backup is the worst, primarily when it occurs in a location that you wouldn’t expect to see sewage, for instance, a bathtub backup. More often than not sewage backups are caused by flooding or severe blockages, but, regardless of how it happens, the question is how to get rid of it when it does.

1. Protect Yourself

If you decide that you would rather clean up the mess yourself than call a restoration specialist
in the Las Vegas area, you will need to protect yourself with appropriate clothing. For instance, you should have protective eyewear, rubber boots, and rubber gloves.

2. Get the Water Out

Once you’ve protected yourself, you will need to get the water out of the bathtub. The best way to remove this kind of water, as it can be contaminated and dangerous for your health, is to use a wet-vac. You should contact your local sanitation department to find out the appropriate way to dispose of any waste.

3. Dry and Discard

After removing the water from the sewer backup, it is time to let things thoroughly dry by turning on fans and opening windows. While the area is drying, it is essential to discard anything that came into contact with the water, like rags, shampoos, or loofahs.

4. Clean and Disinfect

To clean and disinfect the area, it is essential to use bactericidal disinfectants, like bleach. You do not need to use these at full strength. You should follow any manufacturer guidelines to ensure your safety and the safety of your property. You’ll want to use this solution on all contaminated surfaces, letting everything dry after. Once dried, you can repeat the process to ensure cleanliness.

After everything is clean, you still have a job to do. The fact is that something caused the original sewer issue, and whatever the cause cleaning didn’t resolve the issue. Unfortunately, you may need to call out an expert to inspect the lines and prevent any future problems.

5 Ways to Reduce Water Damage During a Storm

5/11/2021 (Permalink)

Office building experienced rain damage.

Prepare For Severe Weather

The building envelope of your commercial building provides a barrier between the interior and exterior. For this reason, it is important to make sure it is intact, particularly if you are expecting a storm in Downtown East, NV, as it helps keep out moisture. The following are some steps you should take to prepare for severe weather.

1. Replace Loose Tiles on the Roof
Loose tiles on the roof can result in rain damage in the area beneath it. Depending on how much rain you receive, there could be damage to multiple levels of flooring as well as the ceiling. Replace tiles on damaged areas to prevent this from happening.

2. Repair Cracks in the Exterior
Cracks in the outside of your building can allow moisture to become trapped inside the walls. This can lead to a black mold infestation as well as other problems. A cleanup and restoration company can perform an inspection and help with repairs.

3. Check for Improperly Sealing Doors and Windows
The seals around your doors and windows help keep out rain and other sources of moisture. However, these areas may wear down more quickly than others. It is a good idea to check for damage here if you are expecting bad weather.

4. Keep Your Gutters Clean
When you are preparing for rain damage, don’t forget about your gutters. Leaves and other debris can cause clogs if the gutters are not cleaned out. The water that builds up can leak through the walls and roofing, resulting in damage.

5. Make Use of Sandbags
If you are expecting flooding, sandbags can come in handy. Because sand absorbs moisture, using them near your building’s entrances can reduce the amount of water that gets inside. While this may not keep out everything, it may prevent serious damage and keep your belongings safe.
Keeping your building in good condition can prevent severe rain damage during a storm. Areas on both the interior and exterior of the building should be maintained regularly. If there are cracks or deterioration, a professional service can repair these for you.

3 Essential Tips To Protect Your Business From Storm Damage

4/15/2021 (Permalink)

Flood damage from a storm in Fremont Street, NV.

Here Are Three Tips To Help You Protect Your Business

A torrential rainstorm can have major negative impacts on your business if you're not prepared. Damaging high winds, floodwaters and long-term power outages can all result in extra expenses you may not have budgeted for. Thinking ahead can help you be ready when disaster strikes. 

1. Invest in a Generator
If a thunderstorm in Fremont Street, NV, knocks out your power, a generator can help you keep your business running, or at least prevent the loss of perishable items. You'll also be able to better protect your employees by keeping lights on and heat pumping if needed. Having power helps you maintain your ability to communicate with customers and staff so you experience fewer service interruptions and can keep everyone informed of your plans.

2. Communicate With Staff
Before a rainstorm rolls in, be sure to discuss your plans and expectations with your staff. They should know what to do in the event that you lose power or major damage is done to the building. Discuss what they should do if customers are in the building to keep everyone safe. Determine appropriate exit routes and where people should take shelter if the need arises.

3. Maintain Your Building
Proper building and landscape maintenance are key to keeping your business safe in a storm. Be sure to keep branches trimmed and away from windows. Perform regular safety checks on your building's perimeter and don't wait to fix any issues you discover. Investing in building safety can pay off in the long run when you don't have to deal with major damages once the storm has passed. If you do experience harm to your building, be sure to reach out for professional commercial building restoration services.
When a rainstorm rolls in, you want to make sure your employees and your assets remain safe. Follow these tips to help you be prepared in the event that Mother Nature upsets your bottom line.

Why A Restoration Crew Is Essential After a Flood

1/11/2021 (Permalink)

Storm restoration services in Las Vegas, NV

If your home in Las Vegas, NV, has flood insurance, it is still important to do everything in your power to protect your property from high waters. Quality insurance from the National Flood Insurance Program, which is administered by FEMA, helps homeowners with claims that result from a named flood. The program provides monetary reimbursement for damages and expenses. Even so, your responsibilities do not end with calling your insurance agent and waiting for the insurance adjuster to calculate damages and approve repairs. It is in your best interests to get your home cleaned up as quickly and completely as possible.

Restoration Services

While flood insurance is an essential component of recovery, it is not the entire package. The effects of a flood are many and complex. Many companies exist that do not have the training and resources to do a quality job. A reputable storm mitigation company provides a long list of benefits:

• A fast response
  
• A capable work crew
  
• A collection of advanced equipment
  
• An understanding of cleanup techniques
  
• A reliance on best industry practices
  
  

Technicians can look over the impacts of flood damage and develop a plan to restore your home using sound principles. They will work quickly. They will restore impacted materials where possible, and replace items when necessary.

Quality Results
Trained professionals from SERVPRO are Faster to Any Size Disaster. They are available 24/7 and will arrive on scene fast with the resources necessary to handle a water emergency. A fast response limits your expenses and reduces the overall costs that your flood insurance might not cover. Workers will look out for hidden damage and will treat potential secondary problems such as mold damage. Best of all, you can feel confident that your residence is restored according to standards established by the cleaning and restoration industries. Insurance after a flood is a great thing to have, but so is a professional cleanup.

3 Reasons to Start Repairing Storm Damage Right Away

10/29/2020 (Permalink)

Tarp services over a roof

Here Are Three Reasons To Mitigate Damage Right Away

 After sustaining damage to your home in Winchester, NV, after a storm, you might be wondering if you should hold off on repairs until you meet with a flood insurance adjuster. However, waiting to protect your home could cost you in the end.

1. Insurance Adjusters Will Be Busy
Depending on the size and scope of the storm in your area, insurance adjusters are likely to be overloaded and reviewing many more claims than usual. It might take days or weeks before you will be able to meet with an adjuster to assess the damage to your home. In the meantime, start making repairs and keep records of work done. Some steps you may need to take right away include:

• Boarding up broken windows
  
• Putting a tarp over your roof
  
• Removing water
  
  

Your flood insurance company will want proof that you did as much as you could to limit further costly damage.

2. Documentation Is Most Important
You do not have to wait for an insurance adjuster to inspect your home before you begin repair work. You do, however, need to provide documentation of the work done. Take plenty of dated pictures and videos of the damage. If possible, find receipts for furniture, electronics and other big-ticket items that need fixed or replaced. Make temporary repairs and keep all receipts.

3. Further Damage Can Happen
Without prompt action, flood damage will set in quickly. Water will seep into attic insulation, drywall, carpets and flooring, and mold damage will begin within days. A storm remediation company can respond right away and begin the water extraction process, using special equipment designed to remove moisture from your structure. Taking steps immediately to mitigate damage will prevent costly replacement of building materials or possessions.
Don't wait for your flood insurance adjuster to begin taking care of your Winchester, NV, home after a storm. Take action right away to prevent damage so you can get back to normal as soon as possible.

How To Judge When Employees Can Return To Work After a Flood

9/11/2020 (Permalink)

Flood damage from storm in Las Vegas, NV

Follow Safety Protocols

A flood is a devastating event for a company for many reasons. Even a small flood causes extensive damage and disrupts business. A number of safety concerns, such as electrical hazards and the presence of contaminated black water, make the building hazardous for customers and employees. While a business owner might be eager to get people back to work, it is important to follow proper safety protocols. A professional cleanup and restoration by an experienced storm mitigation franchise should be one of the first orders of business. Highly-trained workers will undertake an inspection and assessment of the property. They will then develop a plan for orderly and safe flood cleanup.

Building Safety
Floodwaters often contain harmful pathogens and must be cleaned up before employees return. The following conditions should also be looked at and taken care of:

• The structural safety of the building
  
• The removal of all black water
  
• The functioning of the power system
  
• The availability of clean drinking water
  
• The disinfecting of contaminated surfaces
  
• The filtration of indoor air
  
  

While working on the cleanup, technicians will wear masks, gloves, and eye protection to make sure they are safe. Many areas of a building in Las Vegas, NV, should be inspected before it is safe from employees to return to work.

Restoration Integrity
Because black water from a flood has the potential to harm human health, it should be cleaned according to the highest professional standards. Regular cleaning methods are unlikely to be enough. A trained team will take care of things that others might miss. For example, heating and cooling systems may need to be completely wiped down and disinfected. The same is true for items such as plates and eating utensils in a cafeteria or lunchroom. Restoration workers will follow a restore versus replace philosophy, but some items may need to be discarded. They know that taking shortcuts can lead to additional problems such as mold growth.

3 Reasons You Should Not Drive Through Flooded Streets

8/7/2020 (Permalink)

A flooded street in Winchester, NV, can cause damage to roads, homes, and vehicles

Reasons You Should Not Try To Drive On Flooded Streets

A flooded street is not considered safe to drive on. If you are in an area where streets are prone to flooding, try to avoid going out unless absolutely necessary. Even if your area does not usually flood, local roads could become submerged if a big enough storm comes along. Some reports indicate that the severity of storms has been increasing over the past 30 years. Here are several reasons why you should not try to drive on flooded roads.

1. Poor Visibility
Flood water is usually dark and murky, so there is no way to tell what lies beneath the water's surface. A flooded street can quickly erode under the intense pressure and moisture from the water. There could be large potholes where the water is even deeper than it appears. Additionally, branches or other debris could be lurking beneath the water. Check local news or weather apps for travel tips and avoid any roads that are flooded.

2. Loss of Traction
Wet roads are hazardous to drive on because there is less friction between the tire and the pavement, making it more likely that a vehicle will slide or skid. When there are flooded roads, cars can be lifted up and lose contact with the pavement in as little as 12 inches of water. This is especially dangerous if there is any kind of current present. Once a car loses contact with the road, the driver has zero control. Vehicles can easily be flipped over or carried downstream by the floodwater.

3. Damage to Your Car
Water can cause damage to the mechanical and electrical components in a vehicle. An engine that has been soaked with floodwater may need to be stripped unless the plugs and injectors are removed before restarting the engine.
A flooded street in Winchester, NV, can cause damage to roads, homes, and vehicles. If you find yourself with water damage despite your best efforts, contact a professional flood remediation company to restore your property to its pre-flood condition.

4 Measures That Mitigate Storm Damage

4/27/2020 (Permalink)

Flood cut performed in a Showboat, NV home

4 Measures That Mitigate Storm Damage

A storm can cause all kinds of damage to your home in Showboat, NV. The recovery process can be fairly straightforward, or it can involve professional techniques that only trained technicians are familiar with. Flooding presents a number of difficult challenges due to the amount of water that enters a home as well as the unclean nature of the water. These four measures might be needed to get your home back to its original condition.

1. Tear Out. This becomes necessary when a portion of the drywall has been soaked with water from a flood. It is also known as a flood cut. A professional storm mitigation company cuts out the affected drywall 12 to 18 inches above the flood line, removes the damaged material, and replaces the drywall with clean materials. In many cases, insulation that is behind the wall will also have to be replaced.
2. Water Removal. Any standing water in a home should be removed as quickly as possible. If the water is contaminated, either from sewage or flooding, it should be considered a peril to human health and should be removed by workers wearing PPE. Powerful equipment such as wet vacuums and fans are used to extract the water from your home and eliminate the source of contamination.
3. Mold Containment. If a storm has left water in a home for longer than 48 hours there is a good chance mold may already have begun to grow. Mold remediation involves identifying the presence of mold, containing it, using air filters, removing the mold and cleaning contents and belongings.
4. Restoration. The final stage of the process includes restoring any items in the home that have been damaged by the storm. This could include replacing carpeting, repairing a damaged roof, or fixing any structural issues.
Handling the aftermath of a storm or flooding requires experience and expertise. A company that has the equipment and training to deal with any disaster is Here to Help.

Here’s How to Keep Your Business Running During a Power Outage

3/31/2020 (Permalink)

A portable generator is a surprisingly cheap option for most small operations

Here’s How to Keep Your Business Running During a Power Outage

Unless you run a business shoeing horses, chances are you’re utterly reliant on electricity for normal operations. A power outage in Winchester, NV, can happen anytime, lasting from a single second to many days during a disaster. This can have a range of negative impacts on your business, including:

• Interrupting transactions in progress
• Damaging data storage devices, computers, and computerized equipment
• Preventing all business operations, especially during long outages
  

There are a few options for managing a power outage, from excellent short-term devices to long-term solutions. With the costs so low compared to benefits, especially for small to medium-sized businesses, it’s worth looking at the technologies available to mitigate the problems.

All Sensitive Devices Should Be Plugged Into an Uninterruptible Power Supply

An uninterruptable power supply (UPS) is, in essence, just a battery and an automatic switch that trips if it detects an undervoltage, overvoltage or outage in the power line. They are relatively inexpensive and are fantastic at protecting computers and other sensitive electronics from not only a brief power outage but also power surges.
Computers are highly dependent on a very stable voltage. A voltage sag of as little as 12 volts can cause a computer to immediately shut off, losing whatever it was processing at the time. The storage devices inside it can also be permanently destroyed if they were in the process of saving data as well.

A Portable Generator Is a Surprisingly Cheap Option for Most Small Operations

Portable generators typically don’t exceed 17,500 watts. This is enough to power small offices and all their related equipment, including lights and computers. They can be wheeled outside as needed, although you should run it for a few minutes each month to keep it in peak condition. If your business needs more than 17,500 watts, you’ll probably be better served by a fixed generator that automatically switches over if the power goes out.
If your business receives storm damage that causes a power outage, you’ll need a professional storm cleanup company to inspect the damaged area and give you an estimate on repairs. SERVPRO is Faster to any size disaster!