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Keeping Your Home Safe from Summer Storms | SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties
7/15/2024 (Permalink)
When storms strike, call SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties to restore your property to preloss condition faster!
Summertime in our part of Alabama means long, sunny days and warm nights, but it also brings the potential for severe storms. With a combination of high humidity, heat, and atmospheric instability, summer storms can be intense and unpredictable. At SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties, we’re dedicated to helping homeowners protect their homes from storm damage all summer long.
Understanding Alabama’s Summer WeatherOur summer weather is characterized by high temperatures and frequent thunderstorms. These storms often include heavy rain, strong winds, lightning, and occasionally hail. Tornadoes can never be ruled out for our community either. Understanding these weather patterns is crucial for homeowners who want to safeguard their properties.
Thunderstorms and LightningThunderstorms are a common occurrence during the summer. These storms can develop rapidly and bring dangerous lightning. Lightning can cause fires, damage electrical systems, and pose serious safety risks. It’s essential to install surge protectors and ensure your home’s electrical system is up to code.
Heavy Rain and FloodingHeavy rainfall can lead to flooding, especially in low-lying areas. Ensure that your gutters and downspouts are clear of debris so that water can flow away from your home. Consider installing a sump pump in your basement to prevent water accumulation.
Strong Winds and HailStrong winds can cause significant damage to roofs, windows, and outdoor structures. Hailstorms, though less frequent, can also damage roofs and siding. Regularly inspect your roof for loose shingles and make necessary repairs. Trim trees and remove dead branches that could fall during a storm.
Steps to Prepare Your HomeTaking proactive steps can help minimize the damage caused by summer storms.
Inspect and Maintain Your RoofRegularly check your roof for any signs of damage, such as loose or missing shingles. Addressing small issues promptly can prevent more significant problems during a storm.
Secure Windows and DoorsEnsure that all windows and doors are properly sealed and can withstand strong winds. Consider installing storm shutters or impact-resistant windows for added protection.
Clear Gutters and DrainsClogged gutters can lead to water damage during heavy rains. Make sure to clean your gutters regularly and ensure that water flows away from your home’s foundation.
Be Prepared with SERVPRO®Even with the best preparations, storm damage can still occur. When it does, SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties is here to help. Our team of professionals is ready to respond quickly and efficiently to restore your home to its pre-storm condition. From water extraction to roof repairs, we’ve got you covered.
Don’t wait until it’s too late.
Call SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties to recover quickly after any storm.
How an Emergency Plan Can Help Your Business | SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties
7/2/2024 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties is Here to Help® your business prepare for disaster with an updated ERP!
Running a business comes with its fair share of challenges, but dealing with unexpected emergencies shouldn’t be one of them. For business owners in the central part of Alabama, having a solid emergency plan in place is crucial. From natural disasters to unforeseen disruptions, an emergency plan can make all the difference in keeping your business safe and operational. Here’s why you should consider developing one for your company.
Protect Your Business from Natural DisastersCentral Alabama is no stranger to natural disasters. With its history of tornadoes, severe thunderstorms, and flooding, it’s essential for businesses in the area to be prepared. An emergency plan tailored to these specific threats can help minimize damage and ensure a quick recovery. For instance, knowing how to secure your property before a storm hits or having a clear evacuation plan can protect your employees and assets.
Minimize Downtime and Financial LossAn emergency plan is not just about safety; it’s also about business continuity. In the aftermath of a disaster, the ability to resume operations quickly can significantly reduce financial losses. A well-thought-out plan includes steps for communication, data backup, and alternative work arrangements. This preparation ensures that your business can continue to serve customers and generate revenue, even when facing unexpected challenges.
Enhance Employee Safety and ConfidenceYour employees are your greatest asset, and their safety should be a top priority. An emergency plan outlines procedures for various scenarios, from evacuations to shelter-in-place orders, ensuring that everyone knows what to do during an emergency. This not only enhances safety but also boosts employee confidence and morale, knowing that their well-being is taken seriously.
Strengthen Your Business ReputationHaving a comprehensive emergency plan demonstrates to your clients, customers, and partners that your business is reliable and resilient. In the event of a disaster, your prompt and organized response can build trust and strengthen relationships. SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties can help you develop an emergency plan that showcases your commitment to preparedness and professionalism.
Stay Compliant with Industry StandardsMany industries have specific regulations and standards regarding emergency preparedness. A detailed emergency plan ensures that your business complies with these requirements, avoiding potential fines and legal issues. Additionally, having a plan in place can make it easier to secure insurance claims and other support in the aftermath of a disaster.
In conclusion, an emergency plan is an invaluable tool for any business. It protects your assets, minimizes downtime, ensures employee safety, and enhances your reputation. Don’t wait until disaster strikes to take action. Let SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties help you create a robust emergency plan tailored to your business needs.
Visit our website to learn more and get started today.
Prepare Your Home for Severe Thunderstorms | SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties
6/17/2024 (Permalink)
Whether its storm damage cleanup or restoration, SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties is ready to respond in a moments notice to your call.
Severe Thunderstorms: Are You Ready?When it comes to the unpredictable weather of Talladega, Clay, and Randolph Counties, one thing is for sure: severe thunderstorms can strike with little warning. As a homeowner, it’s crucial to be prepared for these powerful weather events to minimize damage and keep your loved ones safe.
Understanding the RisksAccording to a study conducted by the National Severe Storms Laboratory, severe thunderstorms can bring about damaging winds, hail, and even tornadoes, posing a significant threat to homes and properties. Additionally, the Insurance Information Institute reports that severe weather events, including thunderstorms, result in billions of dollars in property damage each year.
Protecting Your HomeSo, what can you do to safeguard your home against the fury of severe thunderstorms? Keeping a close eye on the outside of your home is a great place to start. Check your roof for damage after a wind event so that you can quickly repair them, and make sure the seals on your windows and doors is always in good shape.
Emergency PreparednessIn addition to fortifying your home, it’s essential to have an emergency plan in place. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recommends creating a family emergency kit with essentials such as water, non-perishable food, flashlights, and first-aid supplies. Designate a safe area within your home where you can take shelter during a storm, and be sure to stay informed about weather alerts and warnings.
Call SERVPRO®!Even the most prepared home could still see damage during severe weather. Contact SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties the moment you can safely do so and we will start your recovery right away. We are local and ready to respond day or night, which means you get back to normal faster.
Stay Safe and SecureProtecting your home and loved ones from severe thunderstorms is a responsibility that shouldn’t be taken lightly. By taking proactive steps to prepare and partnering with SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties, you can minimize the risks and ensure peace of mind, no matter what Mother Nature has in store.
Don’t wait until disaster strikes – get your home ready for whatever comes its way!
Contact us for fast restoration after any storm.
Grill with Confidence: Outdoor Fire Safety Tips | SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties
6/3/2024 (Permalink)
Don't forget about fire safety! Follow these tips from SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties to ensure a fun, safe night.
Grilling Safety: A Recipe for Peace of MindAs the sun shines brighter and the days grow longer, there’s nothing quite like firing up the grill and indulging in some outdoor cooking. However, along with the joys of outdoor grilling comes the responsibility of ensuring safety for yourself, your loved ones, and your property. At SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties, we understand the importance of enjoying the outdoor grilling season while prioritizing safety. That’s why we’ve put together these essential tips to help you grill with confidence.
Understanding Outdoor Fire RisksBefore diving into the grilling season, it’s crucial to understand the potential fire hazards associated with outdoor cooking. According to a study conducted by the National Fire Protection Association, outdoor grilling contributes to thousands of fires each year, resulting in significant property damage and even injuries. Additionally, research published by the U.S. Fire Administration highlights the increased risk of fires during the summer months, emphasizing the importance of proactive fire safety measures.
Top Tips for Safe GrillingLocation: Choose a well-ventilated outdoor area away from any structures or flammable materials. Keep your grill at least ten feet away from your home, deck railings, and overhanging branches.
Inspect and Maintain Your Grill: Regularly inspect your grill for any signs of damage or malfunction. Clean grease buildup and ensure proper gas connections to prevent flare-ups or gas leaks.
Stay Attentive: Never leave your grill unattended while it’s in use. Keep children and pets away from the grilling area to avoid accidents.
Use Safe Lighting Practices: If you’re using a gas grill, always open the lid before igniting it. For charcoal grills, use a charcoal starter instead of lighter fluid to avoid flare-ups.
Practice Safe Cooking: Use long-handled grilling tools to avoid burns, and never use water to extinguish grease fires. Keep a fire extinguisher nearby and know how to use it in case of emergencies.
Enjoy a Safe and Satisfying Grilling Season with SERVPRO®By following these simple yet effective outdoor fire safety tips, you can grill with confidence all season long. At SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties, we’re committed to helping homeowners protect their properties and loved ones from the risks of outdoor fires.
Stay safe, and happy grilling!
Visit SERVPRO® of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties for more fire safety tips and fast restoration services after any disaster.
Storm Planning to Avoid Fears | SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties
5/15/2024 (Permalink)
When the storm has passed, call SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties to help you recover.
Dark skies, booming thunder, anxious dogs and nervous kids—these are all a recipe for disaster. When storms are moving in, your home can easily fall into chaos. It can be hard to know what to do and when to do it.
We all know that Alabama weather can be pretty volatile. Strong thunderstorms, tornadoes and heavy rains are possible year-round. Even our winters can come with some high winds and the occasional freeze. There isn’t a lot we can do about the weather, but we can take steps to prepare ourselves so that we respond in the best way possible to every storm.
Making a plan and gathering supplies with your family won’t just ensure you are ready when a thunderstorm or worse pops up, it can also help ease fears.
Knowing What to Look ForSpending a nice day outside watching the clouds go by is a wonderful pastime for all ages, but it can also be a great way to talk to your kids about weather safety. Spend some time telling them what storm clouds might look like, and how the sky could get dark or even green-tinted. Make sure they understand that if clouds are starting to spin it is time to get inside quickly.
Talk about thunder and sirens, too, so that your kids can respond appropriately when they hear signs that a storm is headed your way. Many of us live near a tornado siren, but you need to make sure your kids know what they sound like. The next time one is tested, make it a game with the kids and see who can identify the siren and safely move to a secure location the fastest.
Preparing for the EventOnce you have spent some time with the kids talking about how storms look and sounds, start putting together an emergency plan. This should include where to go during a storm and what to take with you.
A room on the lowest level of your home that doesn’t have windows is ideal for riding out thunderstorm warnings and tornadoes in. Walk the kids to that spot in your home, and let them spend some time playing there if possible. Depending on where your space is, you might also consider letting them leave some pillows, blankets, stuffed animals or other comfort items there to make the room feel as cozy as possible.
Make an emergency kit with your kids as well, and keep it stored near your safe place. Include some forever items in the kit like batteries, first-aid supplies and candles. When a storm is predicted, you can add in water, prescription medications and some family favorite snacks.
Gifting your kiddos with a flashlight of their own can also be a fun way to keep your kids safe. Let them keep it near their bed and every few months have a flashlight party where they guide themselves to your safe location using just their flashlight. Once in the space, play some card games by flashlight as another way to feel comfortable riding out a storm.
Keeping CalmFear and severe weather can sometimes go hand in hand for people of all ages, but children are especially susceptible to becoming nervous during storms. Help them feel safe by reassuring them that the likelihood for extreme damage to your home is pretty low. Most houses are only left with roof, siding and yard damage during severe storms.
The most important part of preparing for bad weather is remaining calm. With a plan and the right supplies ready to go, you can keep the fears at bay and ride out any storm with confidence.
Storm damage should always be addressed quickly. Contact SERVPRO® day or night for the restoration services you need.
The Smells a Water Leak Can Leave You With | SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties
5/1/2024 (Permalink)
Trust SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties to provide comprehensive services for a full recovery for all your water damage restoration needs
With all the appliances that use water in your home, water leaks can be a pretty common problem. Water from other sources, like an open window on a rainy day, can also cause pretty major situations.
Wherever it comes from, most water leaks are far larger issues than what a few towels or a mop and bucket can handle. Water moves quickly, and before you know it, water can be hiding out in places throughout your home.
The faster you can call in the professionals, the better. Getting things dried out completely and quickly will help you avoid going from a simple water leak to a complete disaster.
Addressing Water LeaksAs soon as water starts flowing in the wrong place, it can spread under your floors and walls. Even a small water leak or spill can find its ways into just about every hard-to-reach area you can think of.
When you find a leak in your house, follow your instinct to act fast and dry up everything you can see. Pay attention to where the leak was in order to get the best idea of where it may be causing damage out of your line of vision. When moisture makes its way under floorboards or behind drywall, it won’t dry up on its own. These tight locations lack the airflow to allow water to escape, which means its likely to stay around long-term.
The longer something stays wet, the more damage there will be. Metal support structures can rust, while wooden beams can begin to degrade. Mold can form and spread, leaving your home vulnerable to a dangerous outbreak. It only takes one to two days for an entire colony of mold spores to form and start taking over.
Following Your NoseIf you have recently tackled a water leak in your home and begin to notice a musty, wet or earthy smell near the same area, you likely have a mold issue. This odor is a sure sign that something is going on out of your line of vision, and while you can follow your nose to get to the general area of growth, it’s time to call in the pros.
Our water restoration professionals are highly trained in handling mold remediation, water damage and odor removal. We will tackle the floorboards and drywall that need replacing after a leak, while at the same time working to find the source of mold growth in order to neutralize it. Through disinfection, sealing and removal, our crew will stop the spread of mold and ensure that things are thoroughly dried so it can’t come back.
The smells of our home are important, and even a fully repaired house won’t feel right until all lingering odors are also gone. By isolating the area and filtering the air, as well as sanitizing every surface possible, our crew won’t leave until all odor particles are gone. It is our goal to get everything back to normal, smells and all.
Don’t ignore signs of a water leak. Contact SERVPRO® for a full recovery.
Insurance Claims Can Be Simple | SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties
4/15/2024 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties is Here to Help® with your business' disaster recovery!
When a disaster strikes, it can leave your mind spinning with thoughts. How your friends and family are doing will most likely be the first thing you spend time worrying about, with how well your house fared a close second.
Sorting through all of your thoughts and worries can leave you overwhelmed, and parts of the recovery process—like your insurance claim—might not be something you have considered.
That is why our crew is here for you day or night. We will pick up the pieces and make sure nothing is missed so that your recovery is smooth and easy.
Start Fast, Document OftenWhen it comes to restoration, every disaster is a little different. They do all share one thing in common, though, and that’s timing. The faster you can respond after a flood, fire, storm or any other event, the more you can mitigate your losses. Make sure you are prioritizing your safety, and stay in a safe location until the proper authorities have given an all-clear. Once you can move around, make sure to avoid floodwater, fire-related hot spots or downed power lines.
If the disaster moved through your entire community, check on your neighbors. Make sure any emergent needs are taken care of and that your loved ones are OK. After that, call our SERVPRO® office. We will start your recovery process immediately over the phone and put together a team to head to your property right away.
In the meantime, start taking photos of all the visible damage. The more you can document immediately after a disaster has occurred, the easier your insurance claim process will be. Do your best to wait on our crew before starting any repairs, but if there is something you need to fix right away, make sure you document the before and after.
Leave It to Our TeamWhen our team makes it to your property, we will start by securing your home from potential further damage. As we secure your roof or board up windows, we will also start working through the documentation you created in order to get your insurance claim process underway. Our team is not just trained in disaster-related damage repairs—we are also highly trained in insurance standards and requirements.
As we work, we will put together an itemized list of your losses and take additional photographs of damage that may not have been immediately visible after the disaster. We are certified to meet insurance inspection standards, which means you can trust that the work will only need to be done once. Our staff also makes it a goal to restore rather than replace as many of your belongings as possible so that your recovery costs stay low.
Put your recovery into the hands of our team, and we will get your home back together fast. From tarping your roof to ensuring that your insurance claim process is smooth, we have your whole recovery completely covered.
When a disaster strikes, call us to make your recovery process—insurance claims and all—simple.
The Basics of Flood Damage Prevention | SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties
4/1/2024 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties is ready to help in a moments notice after spring showers leak in to your home or business.
When you want to do something well, it is best to start with the basics. If you have children who are learning multiplication, this is a fact that you already know (painfully) well.
Starting with the basics is the best way to protect your home from potential damage that disasters could leave you with. We can’t control what Mother Nature is going to do, but we can prepare for it.
Flooding is one of the most damaging natural disasters—and it can affect any house anywhere. That makes covering the basics of flood prevention and protection incredibly important.
Know Your ZoneFlooding is so detrimental to so many because it can happen in a lot of different ways. Internal flooding that stems from a manmade issue can cause a pretty big mess, but it is often easier to control and easier to clean-up.
Weather-related issues are a different story! In our part of Alabama, flash flooding from heavy rainfall is a common occurrence. Flooding from the creeks in our communities, like Town Creek, has also caused issues for all of us.
One of the best basic steps you can take toward protecting your home is getting to know your flood zone. This will help you understand your unique risks in order to make the most out of your preparations.
Get to know how your yard acts during a heavy rain as well. If you are near a creek, or in a low-lying valley, you may need to add drainage in order to prevent puddles from forming.
Many of our communities have a great deal of trees, so if your yard and roof are often covered with leaves and limbs, it may be ideal to cover your gutter system to prevent blockages. Check your roof regularly, too, in order to keep it clear and in good shape.
Prepare to PreventGetting to know your area is one of the basics that is crucial for protecting your home from flooding. Home maintenance is the next basic thing you need to cover in order to ensure your home is ready for even the most surprising flood.
Start by making sure your yard has a gentle slope. The more you can encourage rain to roll away from your home, the better. If there is a spot in your yard that consistently stays wet, add some organic material or make this your garden spot. Another easy way to keep your yard dry is to extend your gutter downspouts underground.
On the inside of your home, regularly check the seals on your windows and doors. It’s a good idea to update the caulking and weather stripping around them every spring and fall.
Keep a close eye on your basement if you have one. If you see cracks or gapping in the wall, it could be time to have the basement professionally resealed. Add a sump pump to the lowest level of your home as well in order to pull water out during a heavy rain.
The basics are the best way to get anything done well, including preparing your home for a potential flood. Make sure these easy items are on your regular home maintenance to-do list. Getting your home ready for a disaster will always be easier than teaching you kids math.
Do you have water damage in your home? Contact us at SERVPRO® for fast recovery.
How to Handle Sewage Leaks | SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties
3/15/2024 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties is always ready to respond to your call when biohazard incidents strike.
On a scale of all the things you never want to deal with, handling sewage likely ranks pretty high. A sewage spill may not bring total devastation like some other disasters can, but it will bring a stinky, messy situation.
We may not want to deal with it, but sewage leaks can be common and they can happen anywhere. That makes knowing how to deal with them quickly and safely incredibly important. When you know how to respond, you can get back to normal faster.
What to Do FirstA sewage backup can happen when there is a clog or blockage in the lines. The blockage will cause wastewater to go the wrong direction, eventually forcing itself up through sink drains, tubs and showers. A sewage leak can also occur if your water line or pipes are damaged.
Either way, the first thing you need to know about a sewage leak is to stay away from the water. When flooding or leaks enter into a location, it is classified in three ways: white water, gray water and black water. While white water and gray water do not come from a contaminated source, black water is considered contaminated and toxic. Sewage leaks are classified as black water and contain viruses, bacteria and other microbes that could be harmful for your health.
Do everything you can to avoid the leak and shut the water off to your building or home. Open windows around the area and turn on fans to increase circulation and help eliminate fumes. Keep the area secure so pets, children or anyone else can’t access the leak.
Where SERVPRO® Comes InOur technicians are not just trained to handle biohazard situations, they are also certified to tackle them safely and quickly. From the moment you call us, we will start gathering as much information as we can in order to prepare a team and the equipment for your specific issue.
Once our team is on the way to your home, snap some photos of the leak. This might not be the most pleasant experience, but the more images you can get from a safe distance, the better. These photos will help your insurance claim process go smoother and can help us better identify why the leak started.
When our professionals get to your property, they will first work to find the cause of the leak in order to fix it. We will also start immediately removing standing water and sewage. While our team will be working in protective gear and with protective equipment, this is still a toxic situation. The more you can stay away the better.
Your recovery will include repairs of the source of the leak and any resulting damage that the leak caused. We will also put a lot of emphasis on deep-cleaning and sanitization. Odors will be addressed to ensure there are no lingering smells once the work is complete. Our job is only done when everything is as it should be again. None of us want to deal with a sewage leak in our personal space. Call us to handle any kind of mess you face for fast, safe and complete recovery.
Sewage leaks should always be cleaned up by professionals. Call SERVPRO, and we will take care of you.
Be Alert! Spring Storms Are Coming | SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties
3/1/2024 (Permalink)
Let SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties help you get from April showers to May flowers.
There is no better time of the year in Alabama than spring. The cold temperatures of winter are gone, and the oppressive heat of the summer has not yet set in. Grass begins to turn green again and flowers bloom—it really is a beautiful season.
While the beauty of spring can’t be denied, we also know that it can come with volatile weather. It isn’t unusual to see strong thunderstorms, tornadoes and flash floods after torrential rain, especially as we get closer to summer.
With the possibility of such weather extremes in our community, it’s crucial to be prepared. Receiving timely and accurate weather alerts is one of the most important ways to keep your family safe.
The Power of the InternetAre you ever very far away from your phone or another internet-based device? The answer is likely no, which is why this is the best place to receive weather alerts. Wireless Emergency Alerts can be set up to come through automatically, but you can also opt into a number of apps to receive weather and other notifications.
Be careful when you choose an app. Stick with a nationally recognized organization, or go with a well-known local source. Most of our local news stations offer apps that can keep you informed on weather situations, road closures and other events going on around town. Make sure you sign up for notifications from the city as well for the fastest local information.
If a weather event is predicted for the area, make sure you don’t wait for an alert to start getting informed. Keep an eye on news stations so that you can stay aware of potential evacuation orders or shelter openings.
Non-Electronic OptionsAlong with your phone and other devices, it’s crucial to have another way to receive alerts that does not require power. It is common for thunderstorms and tornadoes to take power out long-term, and you need a reliable way to receive information even without electricity.
If you live close enough to hear tornado sirens, make sure you familiarize yourself and your family members with what they sound like. Keep in mind that these could be masked by the noise of a storm, though, so consider investing in a weather radio to keep your family informed.
NOAA weather radios are portable and are powered with either a hand-crank or solar power. You can take the weather radio with you when you need to head to shelter or after a wave of storms have passed by and you head out to check for damage. This ensures you can stay constantly informed no matter what is going on.
Getting weather alerts quickly and consistently can keep you and your family safe, but it may not stop your home from being damaged. If you discover damage after a storm, call our office right away. We are available around the clock to get your home back together quickly.
Serious storms can cause serious property damage. Call SERVPRO® 24⁄7 for immediate restoration assistance.
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