SERVPRO of Sarpy County understands the stress and worry that comes with a fire or water damage and the disruption it causes your life and home or business. Our goal is to help minimize the interruption to your life and quickly make it "Like it never even happened."
SERVPRO of Sarpy County specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage.
Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration.
Thursday, May 31, 2012
Protecting Yourself and Your Property During Severe Weather
When a storm is headed your way, what can you do to help protect yourself, your business and your home from severe weather? Knowing the difference between a storm watch and a storm warning will help you know when to seek shelter. By taking a few simple precautions as storm season is upon us, you can help minimize the potential for storm-related property damage; however if your home or business does sustain damage, it is important to know where to turn for prompt, professional help.
Although violent storms can strike anytime, the spring and summer months typically mark an increase in the threat of sudden, severe storms that sometime include wind, rain, lightning and even hail damage.
Authorities issue a storm 'watch' when the potential for severe weather exists. A storm 'warning' will be issued when danger from a storm is imminent. The following tips will prepare you to better protect yourself and your property when a storm is on the horizon.
Put a communication plan in place and prepare an emergency supply kit, including a battery-powered NOAA Weather Radio. Social Media such as Twitter and Facebook are growing trends for emergency communication. Even emergency responders are using social media to update the public on need-to-know information.
Postpone outdoor activites; secure outdoor objects that could become airborne.
Don't use corded phones or any appliances that are "plugged in." Use cell or cordless phones instead.
Seek shelter in a home, building or hard top automobile. The steel frame of a vehicle - not the rubber tires - can help protect you from a lightning strike if you avoid touching metal or other conductive surfaces.
Avoid windows and doors, don't lie on concrete floors or lean on concrete walls, and stay off of porches.
If you are outside when a storm hits, seek shelter in a sturdy building. Avoid small isolated structures in open areas and steer clear of hilltops, open fields, the beach or a boat on water.
After the Storm:
Avoid storm-damaged areas. Stay away from downed power lines and never try to drive through a flooded roadway.
Replenish your emergency supplies and repair property damage promptly, before the next storm strikes.
HOW SERVPRO of Sarpy County can help in the event you suffer any type of property damage from a storm:
24 Hour Emergency Response at 402.291.3355
Emergency Boardups to secure your property from further damage, your valuables from theft and also to protect others from unsafe conditions that may exist.
Category 3 Cleanup in the event that dirt, debris or other contaminates come inside the property.
Contents Packout, Contents Cleaning and Contents Storage.
SERVPRO of Sarpy County would like to point out that along with regular Spring Cleaning, it's a timely reminder to take steps to keep your home safe from the threat of fire.
According to NFPA, roughly two-thirds of home fire deaths happen in homes with no smoke alarms or non-working smoke alarms. SERVPRO of Sarpy County would like to remind everyone that a great time to change the batteries in their smoke alarms is during your regular Spring Cleaning activities.
"Spring is the perfect time for a refresher on fire safety tips that should be followed year-round to make home fires less likely to happen," said Lorraine Carli, NFPA's vice president of communications. "Keeping fire safety in mind when adding things to a to-do list, like cleaning a dryer's lint filter after each load of laundry and keeping the stovetop clean and clear of clutter, will prevent fires."
Important spring cleaning home fire safety tips from the NFPA:
Fact: Working smoke alarms cut the risk of dying in reported home fires in half.
Ensure smoke alarms are installed inside every bedroom, outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home, including the basement.
Test them at least once a month by pushing the test button.
Replace batteries in all smoke alarms at least once a year. If an alarm "chirps," warning the battery is low, replace the battery right away.
Fact: The leading cause of home clothes dryer fires is failure to clean them.
Clean the lint filter before or after each load of laundry. Remove lint that has collected around the drum.
Keep the area around your dryer clear of things that can burn, like boxes, cleaning supplies and clothing.
Fact: Most cooking fires in the home involve the stovetop.
Keep anything that can catch fire - oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels or curtains - away from your stovetop.
Always stay in the kitchen when frying on the stovetop.
Fact: Extension cord fires outnumbered fires beginning with permanent or detachable power cords by two-to-one.
Check electrical cords to make sure they are not running across doorways or under carpets. Extension cords are intended for temporary use.
Have a qualified electrician add more receptacle outlets so you don't have to use extension cords.
SERVPRO of Sarpy County would like to point out that March 12 - 16, 2012 is Flood Safety Awareness Week.
Flooding is a coast-to-coast year-round threat. In the U.S., flooding cost an average of $4.6 billion a year. More deaths occur from flooding than any other severe weather-related hazard. Of all flood fatalities, more than 50% are vehicle-related as a result of people trapped in vehicles swept downstream. This occurs when victims attempt to drive through the flooded area.
The second highest percentage of flood-related deaths is the result of individuals walking into flood waters. Although these areas are often marked to warn individuals about flooding, victims ignore the signage and attempt to walk through the area. In the majority of these cases, which are preventable, individuals all too often underestimate the force and power of water and drive or walk into harm's way.
Flooding can happen after days of prolonged and intense rainfall or a flash flood can occur within hours of a rain event due to rapidly rising water along a stream or in a low-lying area. Flash floods can move boulders and other large objects, uprooting trees and destroying buildings and bridges. These floods occur suddenly and often without warning; most often catching people off-guard and unprepared. When you hear the word “flash” think “urgent” and act accordingly.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) National Weather Service (NWS) (www.nws.noaa.gov) and FEMA have partnered to designate March 12 - 16, as Flood Safety Awareness Week in an effort to bring about public awareness of ways floods can occur, the hazards associated with floods, and what you can do to save life and property. NOAA suggests the following flood safety tips to protect you and your family should a flood occur:
A Flood/Flash Flood Watch means flooding or flash flooding is possible in your area. A Flood/Flash Flood Warning means flooding or flash flooding is already occurring or will occur soon in your area.
Leave areas subject to flooding and seek higher ground.
Avoid underpasses, underground parking garages, and basements during or after heavy rains.
NEVER drive through flooded roadways – flood water may have damaged or washed away the road and six inches of water can stall a vehicle.
If your vehicle stalls, get out and move to higher ground.
If you come to water that’s above your ankles, stop and turn around. You can be swept off your feet by as little as six inches of rushing water.
Develop a family evacuation plan. Make sure everyone knows what to do in case of flooding.
Keep all family cars fueled. Stock bottled water, non-perishable food, and a first aid kit.
For a flood safety checklist, visit American Red Cross at www.redcross.org.
If you live in an area prone to flooding consider getting flood insurance for your property. For information on how to obtain flood insurance, visit www.floodsmart.gov.
People underestimate the power of water; especially rushing water.
In May of 2010, Nashville TN was hit with a devastating flood, covering the city in more than 17 inches of rainfall and causing the Cumberland River to crest at 51.86 feet (12 feet above flood stage).Nashville residents were forced to evacuate their homes, seeking shelter for their family members and pets, while having to leave all of their possessions behind.
The National Weather Service encourages all residents to take notice of the weather related threats that could occur at anytime across the country.When residents are in danger, their first instinct is to dial 9-1-1 for help.But in extreme situations, normal rescue procedures can’t always be used and it is in preparation for these types of events that citizens should take the time to plan ahead.
When the Nashville flooding began, the Nashville Emergency Communication Center received many9-1-1 calls for assistance.Because of the rapidly increasing height of the water, in some cases higher than mailboxes and even street signs, descriptions of houses became increasingly important.If you think about it, when in an extreme situation, could you accurately describe your home?What color it is, what the roof looks like, and what materials it is made of?These are important details to make note of ahead of time.Write them down and take a picture on your phone for a record.
The Nashville flood occurred in just two days, leaving little to no time for individuals to plan their evacuation.If residents were physically able, they could evacuate themselves, but there were many citizens who needed to call for help because they had a disability or medical condition that prohibited them from leaving their home easily.It is cases like these where having as much information about that citizen as possible benefits both the responders and the citizen.
·Rainfall exceeded 17 inches, the highest amount in more than 140 years of recorded history. 13 inches of rain fell in 36 hours, more than doubling the previous two-day rainfall record set in 1979.
·The Cumberland River crested in Nashville at 51.86 feet, 12 feet above flood stage.
·According to Metro Planning and Metro Codes, the flood resulted in an estimated $2 billion in damages to private property.
·11 people died as a result of the flood.
·In the year following the flood, 25,000 volunteers gave more than 330,000 service hours to recovery and rebuilding efforts.
·The Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce reported 2,773 impacted businesses with 14,499 workers at the time of the flood
Watch below to see how SERVPRO responded to the 2010 Nashville Floods. Imagine what having a SERVPRO of Sarpy County Emergency Ready Profile could do for you
Working with electricity can be dangerous. Engineers, electricians, and other professionals who work with electricity directly have an increased risk of electrical related injuries. Other professionals, such as office workers and sales people who work with electricity indirectly, may also be exposed to electrical hazards. Electricity and electrical products play a key role in how we conduct business every day. It is important to use electricity properly to avoid serious safety risks.
According to the Electrical Safety Foundation, over the last ten years, more than 30,000 workers have been injured in workplace electrical accidents. Electrical fires can result from electrical system failures, but many more are caused by incorrectly installed wiring, overloaded circuits and improperly used extension cords.
Most electrically-related fatalities and injuries could easily be avoided. Take safety precautions to prevent electrical fire hazards by routinely checking electrical appliances and wiring. Buy electrical products evaluated by a nationally recognized laboratory, such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL). Consider unplugging electrical devices when not in use. Use extension cords wisely; never overload extension cords or wall sockets. Take steps to protect yourself everyday and make safety an integral part of how you do business.
Electrical hazards cause more than 300 deaths and 4,000 injuries in the workplace each year.
Electrical accidents rank sixth among all types of work-related deaths in the United States.
Electrical accidents on the job cause an average of 13 days away from work and nearly one fatality every day.
The non-fatal workplace incidents that cause the highest number of days away from work include contact with an electrical current or machine, tool, appliance or light fixture (38 percent) and contact with wiring, transformers or other electrical components (33 percent).
Nonfatal electrical injury occurs most often to those who work with machines or tools and around electrical wiring other than power lines.
Over the last 10 years, more than 46,000 workers were injured from on-the-job electrical hazards.
Most homes and businesses have multiple electrical appliances ranging from small appliances like toaster ovens and microwaves, to larger items like clothes dryers and dishwashers. These items have become staples in our everyday operation, and while these appliances make our lives easier, they can also pose significant risks, including fire.
Appliance fire safety can be accomplished by maintaining appliances and keeping them in good working order. Prior to using, ensure appliances are properly grounded. If an appliance has three-prong plug, do not try to force it into a two-prong outlet. Regularly check appliance cords for any visible damage, such as fraying or exposed wiring. Do not use until the cord can be replaced or repaired. If you notice smoke or sparks while operating an appliance, discontinue use immediately. Another indicator or potential hazards are outlets that do not work or are warm to the touch. When it comes to electricity, err on the side of safety, if any electrical appliances or outlet is causing concern, call a licensed electrician to inspect your property.
Annually, residential fires result in an estimated:
As many as 50% of businesses close down following a disaster, according to
the latest research. Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority
of them had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance
policy aimed at peace of mind. And knowing you are "Ready for whatever happens"
speaks trust to your clients and employees that in the event your business is
affected by a disaster, they don’t necessarily have to be.
By developing a SERVPRO of Sarpy County Emergency READY Profile for your business, you
minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing
what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can
help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.
A no cost assessment of your facility.This means there
is no need to allocate funds, giving you a great value at no cost.
A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical
information needed in the event of an emergency.It will only take a
little time to complete and will not take you away from current projects. But it
will save a lot of time if ever needed.
A guide to help you get back into your building following a
disaster.This can help minimize the amount of time your business is
inactive by having an immediate plan of action.
Establishes your local SERVPRO of Sarpy County as your
disaster mitigation and restoration provider.You have a provider
that is recognized as an industry leader and close by.
Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to
begin.This saves time so we can begin the work of mitigating the
damage which can save you time and money.
Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority
areas and priority contact information.Having a quick reference of
what to do, how to do it and who to call provides solutions in advance of an
emergency so that during the emergency you are "Ready for whatever happens."
SERVPRO of Sarpy County is committed to
providing fire and water cleanup and restoration services to reduce business
interruptions and recovery costs. SERVPRO of Sarpy County can
provide:
Over 40 years of experience as a leading fire and water cleanup and
restoration provider.
More locations for faster responses.
Quick response time to help ensure the damage is contained and the
restoration process begins promptly.
Large loss capabilities - no fire or water damage is too big.
Disaster recovery and restoration specialist celebrates third consecutive appearance on annual Top 10 list
GALLATIN, Tenn. (Grassroots Newswire) - SERVPRO, a disaster recovery and restoration franchise company, jumped up four notches on the Entrepreneur Franchise 500 ranking this year, moving up to the No. 4 spot in 2012 from the No. 8 spot in 2011. This year's results make SERVPRO No. 1 in the cleanup and restoration industry for the ninth consecutive year.
"It's very satisfying to see our Franchisees' efforts recognized year after year in this prestigious ranking," said Rick Isaacson, Executive Vice President of Servpro Insustries, Inc, "It is a blessing to have the opportunity to help customers restore their lives and Franchisees pursue their dreams at the same time."
SERVPRO specializes in fire and water cleanup and restoration and repair services helping both commercial and residential customers. SERVPRO also offers large loss, national storm response, mold remediation and other property maintenance and restoration services.
"We are proud of the culture of our employees and Franchise owners," added Sue Steen, Chief Executive Officer of Servpro Industries, Inc. "Our mission is to build a team of quality people who focus on excellent service, and we thank them for their efforts on behalf of each and every client we serve."
SERVPRO of Sarpy County (402) 291-3355 is proud to be a participating franchise in SERVPRO's Disaster Recovery Team.
Everyone wants to keep their homes and workspaces warm during the winter. In an effort to keep heating costs down, many residents and employees will turn to alternative heat sources, such as fireplaces, wood-burning stoves and portable space heaters.
When used and maintained as directed, these methods can effectively warm your home or office. However, there is also an inherent danger, as heating equipment is the leading cause of home fires during the winter months.
In 2008 alone, heating equipment caused more than 66,000 fires and led to more than $1.1 billion in direct property damage.* Portable space heaters were responsible for nearly one-third of these fires. Some authorities believe the public is at an increased risk of alternative heating fires this year as residents search for ways to cut heating bills in tough economic times. SERVPRO of Sarpy County would like to pass along the following tips to help minimize the risk for heating fires this winter.
Safety Tips:
Never use the oven, range or stove to heat your home.
Never burn trash, paper or green wood in your fireplace. These items cause heavy creosote buildup, which could eventually start a fire in your chimney.
