SERVPRO technicians have been developing and cleaning with the most advance products around. For over 50 years SERVPRO has been at the forefront of extreme fire and water disaster clean ups and restoration. In addition to offering our Certified SERVPRO Cleaned program, where our franchises perform a professional pathogen cleaning on your site, we are now proud to offer SERVPRO's certified disinfectant, SERVPROXIDE. This single product kills most viruses and bacteria and has an extremely low EPA toxicity rating, making it safe for everyday use.
SERVPROXIDE vs COMPETITION
SERVPROXIDE
-kills 99.999% of bacteria
-Requires no dilution
-Non bleach formulated
-No harsh chemicals or fumes
-NSF certified (safe around food)
-Lowest toxicity rating by EPA.
COMPETION
- Kills 99.999% of bacteria
The facts speak for themselves. Add this to your daily cleaning protocol today!
There are a myriad of things that can cause house fires. It can seem impossible to prevent all the fire hazards in your home. Smaller appliances such as toasters, space heaters and dehumidifiers can pose great risks if not properly used, maintained and monitored.
-Be sure to check the appliance regularly. Any irregularity in the unit or the power cord could be a potential fire hazard.
-Be sure that the wall outlets you are plugging your appliance into are working properly. If you notice any flickering lights or sparks shut the power off and contact an electrician.
-Unplug the appliance when not in use. An unused toaster sitting on the counter can easily be accidentally turned on.
-Make sure the appliance is far away from any potential fire hazard such as blankets, papers or even water which can cause the unit to spark.
Many appliances have safety features on them that are supposed to shut the unit off when they tip over or malfunction in some way but this is not fool proof. Never leave them running unattended.
Mold remediation is a process in which we take very seriously. Here is a look at our step-by-step process that we take.
It begins with initial contact from a customer requiring emergency services.
An assessment of damage and inspection is required.
Next, we take control of the mold so it doesn't spread.
Then air scrubbers are used to further stop the spread.
Removal of mold and infested materials is a priority.
We clean any belongings affected by the mold.
And lastly, we restore anything that has been damaged from the mold infestation.
Mold is not something you should just set aside and deal with later. If you think you have mold in your home or business call SERVPRO of Port Huron today.
What You Need to Know About the Long-Term Effects of Storm Damage
Do you think that post-storm water damage dries without help? If you do not treat this potentially serious issue immediately, take a look at what you need to know about the long-term effects of water damage.
Flooring Failure
Water that seeps into your home and floods your flooring can sink through carpets and padding. The result is a damp rug that is slow to dry. But what happens if the rug feels dry to the touch?
In some cases, you can dry and restore storm-damaged or flooded carpeting. This does not mean you should attempt to save your carpets without help. Failure to properly dry the carpets or the padding underneath can cause additional problems for what lies underneath.
Your regular home vacuum can't pull water from under the carpet's surface. Likewise, a fan or other type of similar drier will not reach beneath into the padding. This means what may feel like a completely dry carpet can hide a wet, moldy, or dirty pad. If you have wood flooring under your carpets, a damp pad could cause serious damage over time.
The longer the moisture sits on the wood floor, the more likely the cellulose fibers in the material will soak up excess water. This can warp the wood and cause permanent damage. While other types of flooring, such as tile, may not warp, the constant presence of water can still cause problems.
To prevent warping and other related issues, contract a professional storm damage restoration company as soon as possible. If you do wait, the professional may still have ways to treat the area and restore your home's flooring.
Faulty Furniture
Your flooring is not the only part of your home that is subject to the long-term effects of storm-related water damage. If water sits on your furniture, it can also cause permanent damage. The type of damage your furniture sustains after a flood or storm depends on what it is made from.
Hard, non-porous plastic surfaces are relatively easy to clean and dry. Provided no evidence of mold growth or bacterial contamination exists, you can wipe the item with your choice of household cleaner and dry it with a towel. But if the furniture in question is made of wood or is upholstered, you will need a professional restoration expert's help.
What happens if you wait to call this professional? Like with carpeting, the water could soak through upholstered items and into the padding underneath. This can result in internal mold growth or damage wooden support frames. This destroys the integrity of the item and can cause complete failure.
Again, like with wood floors, wooden furniture can soak up water and warp. Water can also cause spotting on the surface or swelling. Even though the initial water damage may have happened days or weeks ago, a storm damage professional may still have the ability to restore these items.
Weak Walls
Water damage can extend from the floors and furniture to the walls of your home. Like with other types of water damage, the longer moisture sits on your walls, the higher the likelihood that your home will have permanent problems such as mold growth, warping, or other similar issues.
Like with flooring, a dry wall surface does not always mean everything underneath is free from moisture too. Long-term water exposure can result in seepage through drywall or plaster. The underlying wood and other building materials can warp or rot. This can cause serious or extensive structural issues. A restoration professional can evaluate the situation and create a treatment plan.
Spontaneous Combustion From Improper Grease Rag Disposal
Did you know that a grease rag thrown into a waste basket can catch on fire?
"Spontaneous combustion of oily rags occurs when rag or cloth is slowly heated to its ignition point through oxidation. A substance will begin to release heat as it oxidizes. If this heat has no way to escape, like in a pile, the temperature will rise to a level high enough to ignite the oil and ignite the rag or cloth"
Fires that ignite in this manner can spread quickly to other combustibles and cause great loss.
To prevent this from happening, you need to dispose of the rags in a metal container with a proper sealing lid. Fill the container with water and close the lid. This step prevents the oils from oxidizing.
If your home or business has a fire, call SERVPRO of Port Huron today!
When disaster strikes your business, having a plan in place ahead of time for what you will do can make all the difference in whether your business survives the event. The majority of businesses that come out stronger on the other side of an emergency are the ones that pre-planned for one. That’s where SERVPRO’s Emergency Ready Plan (ERP) can help give you, your employees and customers peace of mind. You can trust that whatever might happen to disrupt daily business will only be temporary. With our Emergency Ready Plan, your business will be able to minimize interruption because you’ll know what to do and what to expect if any-sized disaster strikes. This is important to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.
Storms do not check to see what our schedule is like, nor do they check the clocks. They often come at the most inconvenient time. This is why SERVPRO is a 24/7 business. We do not pass up the opportunity to help in case of emergency.
Whether the storm is a winter snowstorm or a spring thunderstorm we are ready for action during or after hours. This is very important to us because these types of damages and repairs require immediate attention. A quick response is critical in limiting a secondary loss during a storm event.
With any type of storm, water is present and wreaks havoc on one's home or business. Response time is one of our top priorities to ensure water does not become a bigger issue than it already is.
Roof damage is always a major concern when big rain or snow storms come through. Usually the signs are very evident. Water spots on the ceiling, curled shingles, wet walls or winter ice damage are are all very easy ways to determine if your roof is in need of a little TLC.
Missing shingles are always a sure tell sign but you should also pay close attention to any possible damage done to the remaining shingles.
Missing flashing at the edges of the roof, vents and chimneys should also be attended too in order to prevent unwanted water from entering your home during the next storm.
pealing sealant can also cause problems so be sure to look for that as well.
SERVPRO of Port Huron is on call 24/7. We can restore or replace any issues with your roof.
-Shut off the source of water if possible or contact a qualified party to stop the water source.
-Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building, when access to the power distribution panel is safe from electric shock.
- Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting.
- Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removing lamps and tabletop items.
-Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying.
- Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
- Use wooden clothespins to keep furniture skirting off damp floors.
- Hang draperies with coated hangers to avoid contact with wet carpet and floors.
- Hang furs and leather goods to dry separately at room temperature.
What NOT TO DO:
- Enter rooms with standing water where electrical shock hazards may exist.
-Enter effected areas if electrical outlets, switches, circuit breakers or electrical equipment are exposed to water. Always avoid electrical shock hazards.
-Leave books, newspapers, magazines or other colored items on wet carpet or floors to cause staining.
- Leave oriental rugs or other colored rugs on wet wall-to-wall carpets to cause staining.
-Use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water, possibly causing electrical shock or damage to the vacuum cleaner.
- Use TV's or other appliances while standing on wet carpets or floors, especially not on wet concrete floors.
- Turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet or enter room where ceilings are sagging from retained water.
Storm damage may be covered by your insurance policy, but you’ll need to reach out to your agent to get specifics about your particular coverage. It’s important to note that your home must be maintained to a reasonable standard. Otherwise, it could be hard to prove that the storm was the cause of the damage versus a lack of proper maintenance and general wear and tear.
Who Do I Call After A Storm?
SERVPRO provides many of the services you may need after a storm blows through your area. We provide emergency roof tarping and board-up services to help prevent additional damage from the elements and provide security to your property. This service may be needed immediately if your property was damaged by falling trees, hail, high winds, tornado debris or fire. A SERVPRO location near you offers 24/7 emergency service and is available to help.
How Long Does it Take to Fix Flood Damage?
The time it takes to fix flood damage depends on the severity of the flood. We’ll inspect your home or business and discuss with you the severity of damage and our plan to help return your property back to preloss condition. We’ll then work to remove the water that shouldn’t be there using pumps and water extracting equipment. Once the excess water is gone, we use dehumidifiers and other specialized drying equipment to help return the area to its normal moisture level. This is a closely monitored process, with our teams continually making adjustments to equipment to help ensure the area is recovering as quickly and as safely possible.
Benefits to Choosing SERVPRO for Large Loss Events
SERVPRO will help you navigate the insurance claims process and coordinate the necessary paperwork for a quicker, easier experience.
Commercial Large Loss Division
Our Disaster Recovery Teams are composed of elite technicians who have the training and resources to handle large-loss events for industries that have included hospitals, universities and government facilities.
Available 24/7
Storms and other disasters can strike at any time of the day or night, so we are ready to help as soon as we’re needed.
Personal Attention
Each large loss project is managed by a project manager from your local SERVPRO location. They’re backed by the SERVPRO headquarters operations team to help you have the smoothest restoration experience possible.
Strategically Located
We have more trained and certified technicians than any of our competitors at more than 1,900 locations in the United States and Canada. This gives us a larger network of professionals, supplies and equipment to get the job done, regardless of size.
SERVPRO of Port Huron is your one-stop shop for residential construction. The last thing you want to worry about when you need home restoration is contacting and managing multiple repair crews in your home, which can be time consuming, disorganized, and expensive. With one phone call, our highly trained professionals will oversee your project from start to finish. We offer all services needed to get your home constructed. This includes inspection and estimating, mitigation, restoration and reconstruction. In addition to these services, we offer premium services for dust control and protection from COVID-19 and other contaminants using our proprietary, EPA-registered products. We are competent and experienced and believe in delivering quality workmanship, so your house will feel like home. We’ll work with your insurance company to restore your home to help make it “Like it never even happened.”
When you call, our specialist will guide you through several questions that will help us appropriately respond to your unique water emergency. Beyond understanding your situation, we will want to set up a time for your local SERVPRO professional to inspect the property and create a restoration plan for you. Fast response is critical, so we’ll want to schedule this as soon as possible.
Inspection and Water Damage Assessment
After our professionals arrive at your home, they will thoroughly assess the water damage and help you understand its severity, hazards that may be present, and determine what can be restored. If necessary, we will also assist with stopping the source of the water damage. All of this is a crucial step to creating an effective plan of action that will result in the successful restoration of your property.
Water Removal
Service work normally begins with a thorough extraction of water. This helps prevent the spread of water in the structure and reduces drying time. Typically, hundreds or thousands of gallons of water are removed using powerful pumps and extraction units during the water removal process.
Damaged Material Removal
If any materials cannot be successfully restored, this will be communicated to you. These materials are typically removed as soon as possible to expedite the drying of all restorable materials.
Cleaning, Sanitizing, and Deodorization
Water damage can create cleaning, sanitizing, or deodorization needs for floors, furniture, and other personal belongings. SERVPRO professionals use a variety of specially formulated products, industry-leading equipment, and proven techniques to accomplish this important aspect of restoration.
Drying
After the bulk of the water has been removed, our specialists use industry-leading drying equipment to remove the water you can’t see. This will target water within materials to bring these materials back to their normal moisture level. This equipment is normally placed during the first visit to your property. The type and amount of equipment is based on your unique situation and industry standards.
Monitoring
During the drying process, our specialists will want to visit your property daily to help ensure materials are drying properly, check drying equipment performance, and make changes as needed. This monitoring process is critical to effective and efficient drying of your property.
Repairs and Construction
After these initial steps, your home may need construction work to get your property back to its preloss condition. The repair step can be minor repairs or rebuilding entire areas of your home. We can simplify the restoration process by handling both the initial damage mitigation and rebuilding the affected areas. Having one qualified company for the entire process can save time and keeps costs low.
Bathroom exhaust fan fires are commonly caused by four different things.
Faulty wiring
Running the fan for extended periods of time
Overheating the motor
Failure to clean the fan
An exhaust fan fire can cause devastating damage. In the attached picture, you can see what a SERVPRO customer was left with after their fan caught fire. The fire department had to completely drown the bathroom and surrounding areas with water to put a stop to the flames, leaving the homeowner with extensive FIRE AND WATER damage.
To prevent this from happening in your home, follow these simple routine maintenance steps.
Get in the habit of inspecting and cleaning your bathroom fans regularly. Every six months to a year is recommended.
Exhaust fans should not run for long periods of time and should always be turned off before leaving the house. The recommended time to run the fan is between 15 and 20 minutes.
SERVPRO of Port Huron responds to dozens of calls each year for home damage caused by a small critter. Raccoons, rats, and birds are all small animals that can set up camp on or even in your roof. This may seem like a small issue but in fact can lead to major issues.
These small animals can claw and chew there way through the layers of your roof until they eventually make there way through. This leads to massive roof underlayment damages followed by costly repairs. Once they are established, it is very difficult to keep them away permanently. An exterminator will need to come in and remove any scent of the animal and often that is just the beginning of the repair efforts needed.
Water Damage
If these animals do make it through the layers of your roof, water can seep through into your attic and make its way inside your home. That water can cause damage to your ceilings, walls, and floors.
Soffit Damage
Heavier animals can knock the soffit right off your home, giving them access to your attic.
If you find yourself in need of repairs after damage to your roof call SERVPRO of Port Huron today!
Mid-Michigan has had allot of heavy winds lately, putting allot of pressure on the exterior of your home. Wind can leave your roof exposed and that is especially dangerous when entering the cold winter months. Snow and ice can build up over time and cause further breakdown of the exposed area. When fall comes around and everything outside thaws, the water will begin to slowly leak inside. Water works very quickly and can make its way down the drywall and into the flooring before being detected. When water has a chance to sit mold begins to grow. At this point everything must be removed, cleaned, and replaced. Always inspect the exterior of your home after any type of storm and if you are in need or repairs, call SERVPRO of Port Huron 24/7, 365 days a year!
A fire escape plan could be the difference between the life and death of a loved one.
Start by creating a fire safety file that can be kept in a designated area.
Information to be included in the file.....
-A copy of the floor plan for each family member.
All exits (windows and doors) should be clearly labeled.
-Record the last date you replaced the batteries in each smoke detector.
smoke detectors should be in each room as well as one outside of the room.
-Each person should have there escape plan mapped out on their copy of the floor plan. If there are infants in the house, be sure to label who is responsible for them and map out the retrieval process.
Choose a back up person incase someone is not home.
-A mutually agreed upon meeting place should also be written on each floor plan along with important phone #'s that may be needed later on.
If you have a fire at your home, call SERVPRO of Port Huron to take care of the disaster.
The home pictured above belongs to an elderly woman who had a major water loss that started from her dishwasher. The water managed to effect the kitchen, dining room, living room, a beautiful library, the first floor bath and laundry room, and the entire finished basement. SERVPRO came in and walked her through every part of what the clean up and restoration plan would include.
The flooring was removed throughout most of the house as well as all cabinetry and a good amount of drywall. During the clean out process, several other issues (including mold) quickly became apparent.
One of our SERVPRO Project Managers was been working closely with the home owners son over the past few months and is happy to report that all structural issues have been repaired. New drywall has gone in as well as all new hardwood and currently a brand new beautiful kitchen is being installed.
At SERVPRO we understand that it is not just a house or a business we are handling, but it is a home to you or your loved one and we take that responsibility very seriously.
Top Benefits to Having The Carpets in your Business Professionally Cleaned
Clean carpet is essential in your home. Your carpet can trap many things that can be toxic. Contact us at 810-966-7900 to schedule a cleaning today.
You likely schedule daily or weekly office cleaning service to keep your business tidy. However, even with regular sweeping and vacuuming, your carpets can accumulate stains. To ensure your office is presentable, SERVPRO of Port Huron offers expert carpet cleaning service, including spot removal and upholstery stain removal, to get rid of stains that sweeping and vacuuming miss. We also offer dry cleaning service for areas where color-fastness is crucial. Below, we reveal some of the most valuable benefits of regularly having your carpets professionally cleaned.
4 Reasons to Schedule Commercial Carpet Cleaning Services
1. To Improve Air Quality
Carpeting collects a wide variety of air contaminants, including dust, pollen, mold spores, and bacteria, that can cause allergy symptoms and exacerbate asthma and other respiratory problems. If not removed, these particles could end up back in the air you and your employees breathe, resulting in a lot of downtime and loss of productivity.
2. To Remove Stubborn Stains
Some stains are extremely persistent and cannot be removed without professional attention. For stubborn, unsightly carpet blemishes, contact the experts at SERVPRO of Port Huron for help. We use powerful cleansers and state-of-the-art techniques and equipment to remove even set-in soils and spatter.
3. To Look Professional
Carpet stains simply don't look professional, and if you invite clients into your offices, they could well be turned off by the dirty, grimy appearance. Moreover, even if your customers never enter your premises, the untreated stains could signal that sloppy work or carelessness is acceptable. To avoid sending that type of message, contact a professional carpet cleaning service.
4. To Extend Carpet Life
Deep-down dirt and grime can damage carpet fibers and cause the rug to wear out more quickly than it should. Regular carpet cleaning removes contaminants that cause damage and discoloration and extends the useful life of your office carpeting.
Commercial carpet cleaning offers some important benefits for your business. To schedule service, contact SERVPRO of Port Huron. We also specialize in water extraction and mold remediation, and offer 24/7 emergency services. Call 810-966-7900 to request a quote.
The Affects Smoke Damage Has on your Home and Personal Items.
Fires can cause extensive damage to your home and personal effects. The heat radiating from the flames will radiate and cause items to melt or crack. After the flames have been delt with you are left with the devastating after math of smoke damage.
What Can Be Saved?
It all depends on the extent of the damage as well as the cost involved. Some items will cost more to salvage then to replace. A specially trained SERVPRO professional can assess and determine what items should be cleaned, discarded or replaced.
How Does Smoke Affect Your Home?
Smoke does not affect all materials the same. Also, just how hot the fire got and what it originated from will affect the outcome. The worst way smoke can cause damage is when it sneaks into small cracks. The particles are so fine so they often go undetected for a long period of time, leaving a smoke smell that can last for a very long time. You can remove the smell from your home only by removing or cleaning the affected items and clean your home with special formula cleaner.
How Do You Clean Smoke Damage?
First and foremost, the home needs to be properly ventilated. Next all debris needs to be removed and every surface area needs to be cleaned. The quicker this step is complete the more likely you are to reduce the possibility of cross-contamination.
Hardwood Floors
Hardwood floors are porous so smoke particles are often impossible to get out. The floor may have to be refinished or completely replaced.
Clothing
Commercial cleaning detergents should be enough to remove most, if not all of the smoke smell.
Have you noticed an earthy or musty smell in your bathroom lately, even after giving it a good cleaning? Don’t ignore this crucial sign of a potential water leak. Keep looking for the hidden water leak, from inside your cabinets to behind your faucet, until you find the source.
Mildew or Mold
Mold thrives in moist, dark areas. Pipes, which are typically hidden in a wall or under flooring, provide the perfect breeding ground.
Damaged Paint or Wallpaper
If you see blistering paint or water stains on your walls, you could have a leak in the bathroom. Pay attention to the floorboards as well, when wet they tend to suck up the moisture and swell.
Damaged Walls
Another sign of a hidden bathroom leak is wall damage. When drywall is exposed to moisture, it becomes soft and begins to bubble. Eventually, it will warp and break into pieces.
Wetness in the Cabinet
Finding water or moisture in your cabinets is a sign of a hidden leak. It might be an easy fix, like tightening a nut, but it could also be a sign a valve needs replacing.
Damaged Flooring
If your bathroom floor is buckling, cracking, or beginning to stain—and you didn’t let the bathtub overflow—odds are you have a leak. The water could be from a pipe directly underneath the floor, or it could have traveled there from another area.
Rocking Toilet
A toilet shouldn’t wobble. If it starts to move when you sit down its likely the wax ring that keeps a water-tight seal between the base and the pipe below is worn. This will eventually lead to wastewater coming out under the toilet and an obviously foul smell.
Faucet
If the bathroom faucet is loose in your hand, it can allow water to seep into the gaps. To fix the issue, it might be as easy as applying new caulking to make it water-tight again.
Stains on Ceilings
If you have a bathroom on a second floor, check the patch of ceiling in the room directly beneath it for stains and signs of water damage. However, because water can travel a long distance, it's possible to find water stains on the ceiling further away.
What does SERVPRO of Port Huron do for you when your home and family are affected?
1. Within one hour a SERVPRO Franchise Professional will call to arrange for service.
2. Within 4 short hours a professional will arrive on-site prepared to begin emergency mitigation services, if so needed.
3. A Project Manager of SERVPRO will review your home with you and address any questions or concerns.
4. The SERVPRO Project Manager will then go through your home starting from the fire and working his way outward to see what is restorable or salvageable.
5. Next SERVPRO will present to you and your insurance adjuster a plan of action, also known as a "Scope of Work".
6. Your home will be cleaned and restored by SERVPRO Franchise Professionals.
7. After all of the work is completed, a final walk-through will be conducted with you to help ensure your satisfaction
SERVPRO of Port Huron has all of the latest and greatest restoration technology.
Moisture Detection
Scientific drying principles rely upon specialized equipment to detect, measure, and monitor a property’s moisture levels. Recent advances, like infrared cameras, can help us detect water through a wall, ceiling, or floor.
Water Extraction Equipment
Powerful equipment is key when it comes to the drying process and removing the majority of standing water you may have in your home or business.
To meet this demand, SERVPRO has gas-powered pumps for continuous pumping of high level water. our truck-mounted and portable extraction units make for fast and efficient water removal.
Drying Equipment
Industrial strength air movers and dehumidifiers are needed to remove the remaining moisture from your home or business. Proper drying helps to prevent swelling and warping of floors, walls, and furniture.
High-speed air movers causes moisture to evaporate at a faster pace and Industrial grade dehumidifiers pull the water vapor from the air.
Odor Removers
Air scrubbers and thermal foggers are used to remove the intense smells that accompany fire and water damage. These machines remove air-borne contaminants while controlling the air quality.
Should you find your self in need of a highly recommended restoration company, call SERVPRO of Port Huron.
After the fire trucks leave, your home likely suffers from fire and smoke damage and extensive water damage from firefighting efforts. SERVPRO of NW Genesee County has the specialized fire restoration training needed to restore your home to pre-fire condition. What should you do after a fire? Call SERVPRO!
Have Questions About Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? Call Today (810-966-7900)
Every fire damage event is a little different, and requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same. The steps listed below illustrate our process for the “typical” fire damage emergency.
Step 1: Emergency Contact
The restoration process begins when you call the SERVPRO of NW Genesee County, whose phones are answered 24 hours a day. Our representative will ask a series of questions regarding the fire damage event.
Step 2: Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment
Our Professionals will carefully inspect and test adjoining rooms of your property to determine the extent of the fire, smoke, and soot damage. This step is crucial to developing a plan of action.
Step 3: Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service
Fire damage can often compromise windows, walls, and roofs. To maintain security and to protect against further damage, the SERVPRO of NW Genesee County can board up missing windows and walls and place tarps on damaged roofs.
Step 4: Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)
The water removal process begins almost immediately and removes the majority of the water. They will then use dehumidifiers and air movers to remove the remaining water and complete the drying process.
Step 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces
SERVPRO of NW Genesee County uses specialized equipment and techniques to remove smoke and soot from ceilings, walls, and other surfaces.
Step 6: Cleaning and Sanitizing
They will clean all of the restorable items and structures that were damaged by the fire. They use a variety of cleaning techniques to restore your belongings to pre-fire condition. They’re also trained to remove odors using industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment.
Step 7: Restoration
Restoration is the final step—getting your home or business to its pre-fire condition. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet; or it may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.
What Happens when Water Gets Under your Ceramic Tile?
Tile can withstand small quantities of water but if your home has been flooded and you are thinking of leaving the effected tile untouched, there are a few important things you should know. Water that has found its way under ceramic tile can cause mold growth. If that mold is not taken care of it can become very dangerous. Mold spores can lead to health effects and will eventually compromise the structure of the tile itself.
This is where your insurance company steps in and asks you to call SERVPRO of Port Huron. Our trained professionals will come in, asses all damage and identify potential future problems that you may not have known to check for. Our Project Manager will work directly with you and your insurance adjuster to repair or replace all damaged areas.
With 24/7 on-call technicians, we are faster to any size disaster.
Fires in the workplace can be especially devastating to business owners. There is the damage to the facility, any inventory, and then there is the longer timeline before you can get back up and running which may lead to loss of employees. SERVPRO does not often receive calls for workplace fires, however the ones they do respond to, often have major damage with a loss of most or all their inventory. Take note of these 4 most common reasons for workplace fires.
Faulty Electrical Equipment
Loose wires, overloaded plugs and faulty connections can lead to dangerous electrical fires. This often happens because businesses put off replacing functional but unsafe or outdated equipment. It requires a slight investment to keep your staff safe and saves money in the end.
*Note- it is a business owners' responsibility to care for electrical equipment. These types are especially dangerous because they cannot be put out by water. Make sure you have a fire extinguisher in site for all employees.
Flammable and Combustible Materials
Workshops and garages can be prone to these types of fires. If these items are not stored properly certain tools like a circular saw can cause a spark and light near bye flammable chemicals.
Lack of Staff Training
Unforeseen accidents are always a possibility even when you have followed all rules and regulations. For this reason, employee training is vital! Proper training can prevent innocent mistakes, like covering the vents of electrical equipment, that could lead to a major disaster. If a fire does still occur, it is extremely important that all staff members are aware of your evacuation plan.
Lack of resources and equipment in place
Smoke detectors and fire alarms need to be installed and checked! This should seem like a given, but unfortunately that is not always the case. Investing in the initial upfront cost of these safety procedures could save you thousands of dollars in the end and most importantly will KEEP YOUR STAFF SAFE!
SERVPRO professionals responded to a fire claim at a local laundromat. A customer of the business washed and dried a "dry clean" only garment causing the clothes to catch fire inside of the dryer. When the dryer was opened, black smoke entered the room staining the walls and leaving behind an overwhelming smoke odor. First the source of the fire (the dryer) was removed and then specialized equipment was set up to remove smoke and soot from the ceilings, walls, and other surfaces. Next our technicians cleaned all of the restorable items and structure that was damaged, to there pre-fire condition. The smell was removed using industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment. After everything had been cleaned and sanitized a fresh coat of paint was added to the entire store.
A homeowner called SERVPRO after an older galvanized pipe on their hot water heater broke. The break was at the connection of the hot water heater base causing free-standing water in the homeowner's laundry room, hallways, kitchen and bedrooms. After air movers and dehumidifiers were brought in to finish drying everything up, it was discovered that particle board was laid underneath all of the flooring in the home. When moisture reaches particle board it swells and expands. For this reason all of the sub-floor had to be removed and replaced before new carpeting and tile could be laid. SERVPRO responded so quickly that the affected wall panels were able to be dried out, repaired and rehung, making it "Like it never even happened."
A sump pump eliminates moisture and prevents flooding by collecting excess water from drains and pumping it out and away from the building. You will find a sump pump sitting in a specially constructed pit that sits lower than the basement floor in homes that are susceptible to major rain and snow fall.
If your pump stops working, water could get into your basement and foundation walls. This may cause mold and mildew to grow and if enough water builds up, the basement can flood.
How do you know your sump pump is working?
You can check your sump pump tow different ways. Two separate plugs are attached to the unit. Unplug them both and then plug in only the one for the pump. If the pump does not immediately turn on then something is wrong. Your other option is to add water and wait to see if the pump turns on and properly evacuates the water.
Once again all of Michigan has a winter storm advisory!
Here are some quick tips to protect your home
keep your pipes warm- insulate pipes in the cold parts of your home and leave cabinets open to allow warm air to reach the pipes
Check your roof- Large amounts of packed snow can cause your roof to collapse so be on the lookout
Carbon-monoxide detectors- Poor ventilation is a huge risk factor in the winter months. Keeping a detector on each floor of your house can help keep your family safe
Generator- A generator can be pricy but will keep you warm in the case of a power outage and save you money by protecting your pipes from freezing
Emergency kits- Incase of a power outage be sure to have flashlights, candles, battery powered radio and extra batteries on hand
As always SERVPRO of Port Huron is here to help with highly trained technicians ready for your call should your home or business be affected this winter.
Did you know that it is actually impossible to remove ALL mold from your home or business? Mold lives everywhere, indoor and outdoor. Mold spores are microscopic, traveling through the air and usually entering your home through windows, air conditioning units or doors. They thrive on moisture and can quickly turn into a much larger problem when exposed to water.
Large mold problems are generally easy to find because it produces a strong musty odor.
Why chose SERVPRO of Port Huron if you find mold present in your home or business?
FIRST......
We are faster to any size disaster!
SECOND.....
We are highly trained mold remediation specialists. We have the training and expertise to safely handle any mold situation.
Applied Microbial Remediation Specialist
Water Damage Restoration Technician
Applied Structural Drying Technician
SERVPRO of Port Huron is here for you day or night, 365 days a year.
We have received a ton of calls for roof repairs after all of the high winds we have seen lately.
If your home has taken a beating from high winds, the damage is not always obvious. Damaged shingles may look fine from the street and the issues may not reveal themselves until after some time has passed.
Damaged shingles can lead to a leak in the roof. The leak will be small and hard to notice but may make its way through your homes siding or roofs waterproof material. These small areas allow moisture and pests to enter your home.
The wind can also cause the roof decking to lift away from the framing. Even the slightest lift can lead to loose screws and nails. If this happens it may take only one more high wind situation to completely lift the roof decking away from the home.
The damage your home sustains will depend on several factors. These include:
Direction of high winds
Type of home construction
Materials used for roof and siding
Age of home
When you have your home assessed for damaged by SERVPRO professionals, they will look beneath the surface to find the hidden damage.
Did you know that wind damage is often covered by your insurance company?
Check your homeowners policy to learn the details about your coverage. Most policies include reimbursement for roof and siding repairs due to wind damage.
If you suspect you have roof damage give SERVPRO of Port Huron a call today. one of our Project Managers will meet you at your home, asses the amount of damage and submit an estimate to your insurance adjuster.
Improves the Overall Health of Employees and Clients.
SERVPRO of Port Huron Professionals offer a wide variety of cleaning services for your business.
Biohazard
Carpet and Upholstery
Ceilings, Floors, and Walls
Document Restoration
Drapes and Blinds
Odor Removal
Sewage
Trauma and Crime Scene
Vandalism
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
Our Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned defensive cleaning program gives your business a way forward to provide your employees and customers ongoing safety as you operate after the COVID-19 pandemic. As America’s #1 cleanup and restoration brand, we have developed a program that is grounded in our 3 C’s – Consult, Clean and Certify.
When an ice dam gets large enough or starts to lift the shingles, water will find its way into the interior of your home.
Heavy snow? Check. Extreme Temperatures? Check. The perfect storm for Ice Dam Season.
An Ice Dam is a lump of ice that forms at the edge of a roof under certain wintertime conditions, and are a common sight during long Michigan winters. It can damage both your roof and the inside of your home, while also putting gutters and downspouts at risk. It’s important to understand that properly installed roof systems are still prone to leaks and damage caused by ice dams.
How do Ice Dams Form?
An ice dam forms when the underside of the roof over the attic gets warm enough and begins melting snow. The water trickles down between the layer of snow and the shingles until it reaches the edge of the roof, which stays cold because it extends beyond the side of the house. There, the water freezes, gradually growing into a mound of ice.
As the ice dam continues to grow, it traps water behind it. The ice and water can back up under shingles, seeping into the attic, ruining insulation, rotting wood and damaging plaster and drywall. Eventually, it will drip into the insulation and down into the ceilings and exterior walls beneath the eave, ruining walls and paint. If the roof sheathing stays wet, it can form mildew and start to rot.
If the ice dam breaks free, it can pull shingles and gutters off with it, and it will damage anything it falls on: shrubs, window sills, cars, pets, and people.
What can you do?
There are several things you can do to avoid getting an ice dam or to reduce the risk of damage after one has formed, but there’s really only one cure: a combination of better eaves and attic insulation and venting.
Attempting to remove an existing dam by chopping it or using heat can damage the home. We suggest the use of calcium chloride to combat the buildup of ice at the edge of your roof. It can be found at your local hardware store.
If you find that the interior of your home has been damaged by water seeping in from an ice dam, give SERVPRO of Port Huron a call 24/7 at 810-966-7900.
*Please confirm coverage with your insurance provider, as many carriers consider ice dam buildup to be part of home maintenance*
Start with an inspection on the outside of the pump. Look for any damage or obstructions. Remove the cover and look inside the sump pit. if water levels are low there is a good chance everything is working properly. You will also want to check the pipe that leads the water from inside the house to outside, for any blockages and make sure the pipe is working properly.
Test the Pump
Poor a large bucket of water into the pit. Once the water starts to rise, the pump should automatically turn on, pump out the water and turn itself back off.
Maintain your Pump
You should inspect your sump pump at least once a year. Make sure there is no mud trapped that could interfere with water flow. The typical life span of a sump pump is no more that 10 year. If it is run often, you should consider replacing it every 5-7 years.
SERVPRO of Port Huron has a highly trained team of professionals who specialize in water related losses. This new large amount of snow will eventually melt, turning into problematic water levels for many people. Give us a call any time, day or night. Our team will meet you onsite in the middle of the night and walk you through every step of the renovation process.
Entrepreneur Magazine has released their Franchise 500 for 2020, and SERVPRO is in the Top 10! Plus, we are still #1 in our industry...21 years and counting!
With more than 1,700 franchises nationwide, SERVPRO is a leader in the restoration industry, and its professionals are faster to any size disaster. SERVPRO franchise professionals are available 24 hours a day/7 days a week and are ready to restore or clean your property.
Residential Services
Whether you need emergency flood damage restoration or top-to-bottom home cleaning, you can trust SERVPRO franchise professionals to make your house feel like home again. They have the training, experience, and equipment to quickly get your home looking its best. Our residential services include the following:
Water Damage Restoration
Fire Damage Restoration
Mold Remediation
Storm Damage Restoration
Cleaning Services
Commercial Services
Your commercial property’s appearance speaks volumes to your clients. So when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services, SERVPRO franchise professionals have the training and expertise to help make it “Like it never even happened.” With more than 1,700 franchises nationwide, there’s a SERVPRO professional nearby and ready to serve you. Our commercial services include the following:
Port Huron is headed for some single digit temperatures in the next week - here’s some ways you can prevent your pipes from breaking in the extreme cold.
As a general rule, the “temperature alert threshold” for freezing pipes is about 20 degrees Fahrenheit. To keep your pipes from freezing, make sure they are not exposed to temperatures approaching this. Installing pipe insulation, sealing cracks and applying electrical heating tape to your pipes are all good preventative measures.
Make sure that heat is generating throughout your house by keeping the garage door shut, opening the cabinets to circulate heat, never let your thermostat drop below 55 and keep the temperature of your home consistent.
You can always call SERVPRO of Port Huron 24/7 if you experience damage from a burst pipe.
Tips on how to SAFELY deep fry your turkey this Thanksgiving
Follow these safety tips to make sure you have a safe and successful holiday bird!
Thanksgiving is a time for family and holiday traditions including taste tested Thanksgiving recipes. It's also a time where family members may want to join in the food preparation so fire safety is important. With the speed of deep-frying a turkey, the irresistible flavor, and juiciness that results, turkey frying has become a Thanksgiving tradition for some. But turkey fryers have the potential to cause fire and serious injury, which is why organizations like the National Fire Protection Association advises against using them. If you DO plan to deep-fry your holiday bird, be sure you know how to safely use the fryer, and take these precautions to protect yourself, your guests and your home.
Tips to help prevent deep fried turkey accidents
Keep outdoor fryers off decks, out of garages and a safe distance away from trees and other structures.
Make sure the turkey is thawed and dry before cooking. Ice or water that mixes into the hot oil can cause flare-ups.
Watch the weather. Never operate a fryer outdoors in the rain or snow.
Place the fryer on a level surface, and avoid moving it once it's in use.
Leave 2 feet between the tank and the burner when using a propane-powered fryer.
Follow the manufacturer's instructions to avoid overfilling. Oil can ignite when it makes contact with the burner.
Choose a smaller turkey for frying. A bird that's 8 to 10 pounds is best; pass on turkeys over 12 pounds.
Never leave fryers unattended.
Purchase a fryer with temperature controls, and watch the oil temperature carefully. Cooking oil that is heated beyond its smoke point can catch fire. If you notice the oil is smoking, turn the fryer off.
Turn off the burner before lowering the turkey into the oil. Once the turkey is submerged, turn the burner on.
Wear goggles to shield your eyes, use oven mitts to protect your hands and arms and keep an "ABC" or grease-rated fire extinguisher close by. Do not to use water or a garden hose on a fire related to Turkey Fryers.
Skip the stuffing when frying turkey, and avoid water-based marinades.
Keep children and pets away from the fryer at all times.
Once finished, carefully remove the pot from the burner, place it on a level surface and cover to let the oil cool overnight before disposing.
Opt for an oil-less fryer. This uses infrared heat, rather than oil, to cook the turkey.
In the slim chance that something goes wrong (of course we HOPE not), please remember that SERVPRO of Port Huron always has crews on call, including holidays like Thanksgiving. We are always here to help. Give us a call at 810-966-7400 any time.
Shutting down your business because of a disaster can really put you in the negative. That is why SERVPRO of Port Huron has specially trained professionals who will arrive on site within hours and minimize the disruption to you and your customers.
Let SERVPRO of Port Huron help with any fire, water and mold needs you have.
Small office buildings
Large office/High rise buildings
Apartment Buildings
Restaurants
Hotel/Motels
Small Retail Stores
Large retail/Big Box-Stores
High Rise Residential
Manufacturing and Industrial
Government/Military
If your business has not been affected by a catastrophic event and you simply just need some deep cleaning done in those hard to reach areas we have a specialized team for that as well.
Thanksgiving is a time to relax and celebrate with family, but we wanted to take a moment to remind everyone to exercise caution while preparing Thanksgiving dinner. Statistically, fire departments respond to more residential fire calls on Thanksgiving day than any other day of the year.
Every year, 2,100 residential structures catch fire on Thanksgiving, resulting in 10 deaths, 50 serious injuries, and $28 million dollars in damage. Here are some simple steps that you can take to avoid disaster on your day of relaxation and celebration:
Don’t leave food unattended while cooking
Check all smoke detectors before beginning Thanksgiving dinner preparation
Keep children and pets away from the kitchen
Keep the kitchen floors unobstructed to avoid tripping
Don’t use any electrical appliances that have damaged or severed cords (use this as an opportunity to treat yourself to some new kitchen toys!)
Avoid using deep fryers (even in the back yard, the NFPA discourages ALL use of fryers)
As always, our crews are on call 24/7 365 days of the year, should disaster strike. Please take note of the steps above to protect your home and your family! Relax, kick back, enjoy some football, and give thanks!
On this Thanksgiving, we feel especially thankful for all of YOU, our loyal clients!
When talking about our wonderful state of Michigan, a few things come to mind.
The many large and beautiful lakes make for awesome boating months in our warm summer season and beautiful blankets of white snow cover the ground in winter creating a wonderland for skiing, sledding and ice fishing. It is safe to say that WATER plays a big part in just about everything we do.
Unfortunately, water also plays the biggest part in Michigan home and business damage every year.
Knowing this, SERVPRO of Port Huron has assembled the area's leading team in water restoration.
Our professionals provide 24/7 emergency services with quicker response times and our efficiency and communication between the customer and insurance adjusters make us a preferred vendor for many nationwide insurance companies.
The team at SERVPRO of Port Huron has extensive water damage restoration training with an emphasis on monitoring and documenting the drying process until completion.
We proudly serve both residential and commercial properties.
The cooler weather has arrived and with that comes warm cozy sweaters, the burning of all fall scented candles and the constant baking of every dessert that includes pumpkins or apples.
In the middle of all the warm fuzzy feelings, let's take a second to talk fall fire safety.
-Candles look and smell great but they are not always practical for families with younger children. Keeping them high up on a shelf or counter does not always guarantee safety. Kids love to climb, especially when they see that pretty orange flickering light. Battery operated candles are just as beautiful, last a lot longer and are a lot safer.
-Baking is a fall must and it is also a great skill to teach your kids. Just be sure to use proper kitchen safety. Keep the stove top clean from any grease or dust. Keep towels away from the stove top and make sure everything is completely turned off when you are finished.
Should disaster ever strike, SERVPRO of Port Huron is ready to answer your call.
810-966-7900
SERVPRO of Lapeer is Ready to Handle Any Size Water Loss
SERVPRO of Port Huron specializes in storm and flood damage restoration. Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.
Faster Response
Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.
Resources to Handle Floods and Storms
When storms hit the Port Huron area, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.
Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 810-966-7900
Bathroom exhaust fan lint is a huge fire hazard! Exhaust fans can be found in most homes and many businesses. The purpose being to help prevent steamed mirrors, moist walls, and foggy windows. It also comes in handy in when you need to get rid of a not so wonderful smell. However, if these vents are not properly and routinely cleaned they can become dangerous. Just like all types of fans, vent fans collect dust or lint. This lint can cause the motor to overheat and ignite the plastic fan and the wood structure.
These vents are not designed to last forever and it typically tends to be the last thing a homeowner thinks about replacing. Newer vent fans have thermal protection that causes the motor to shut off if they seize and overheat. This type of vent has only been around since the late 70's so there are still millions of older builds that are without this vent safety precaution.
You should clean your bathroom exhaust fan twice a year. If it starts to make noise or has an odd odor than it is time to replace it.
If disaster should strike, call SERVPRO of Port Huron 24/7, 365 days a year.
The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the definition of clean and has 89% of consumers nervous about returning to the retail world.
SERVPRO cleaning specialist in Flint, recommends paying attention to four key things as businesses reopen.
1. Look for "signs" of clean
When you first walk into the building you should immediately look for signs that the space has been cleaned recently. A clean space will be free of visible dirt and trash. Fingerprints in high traffic areas are a good sign that cleaning is not high priority. Standalone sanitation stations are a good sign that disinfecting is a priority. Many businesses are also hanging signage to remind guests to use proper social distancing protocols.
2. What adjustments have staff made?
Everyone has a responsibility to stop the spread of coronavirus. The staff of retail businesses, restaurants, or community centers should be properly trained in CDC-approved cleaning methods. If employees are not using proper techniques or products, it might be due to a lack of proper training. Look for staff who are wearing gloves and masks and are practicing safe distancing when interacting with customers.
3. What adjustment has the business made to the physical space?
Many businesses and facilities have made physical changed to their buildings to help reduce the risk of spreading illness. The business may adjust to traffic flow of patrons to prevent congested areas. Contactless point-of-sale are becoming more common, and many businesses are constructing barriers between employees and guests. Some have even added markers on the floor to indicate the safe 6-feet distance. One good way to help prevent the spread of infection is to reduce the number of touch points, such as propping doors open and opening windows to increase airflow. Some of the businesses are going a step further and reducing the number of customers allowed inside the space at one time.
4. Does it look like " business as usual?"
in the same way that the country changed following 9/11, what we once knew as "normal" may change forever. If a facility is still operating gin the way it did before the coronavirus pandemic, there is a good chance the managers or staff are not taking the illness seriously and are not prioritizing the health of their employees and guests. many have reduced there hours of operation or offered times when they are open only for at-risk individuals, such as senior citizens or those who are immune-compromised. Before stepping out of your door, check the company's social media pages or their website for communications about their hours and the steps they are taking to protect patrons. These locations should be following federal, state, and local mandates with regard to safety.
Reopening America requires all of us to move forward together by practicing social distancing and other daily habits to help reduce the risk of exposure to the coronavirus.
SERVPRO specializes in disaster restoration, cleanup, and repair services, helping to remediate damage, making it "Like it never even happened," for both commercial and residential customers.
As we have recently come to understand in the state of Michigan, storms and flood damage can come quickly and without warning. Leave it to the pros at SERVPRO of Port Huron who have the expertise, knowledge and equipment to handle any size disaster and can respond immediately to storm and flooding conditions.
What we Offer
24/7 Emergency Services
Highly Trained Water Restoration Services
Faster to Any Size Disaster
A Trusted Leaded in the Restoration industry with over 1,700 Franchises
Why Us?
Faster to Any Size Disaster
SERVPRO Professionals are dedicated to responding immediately to water and storm damage emergencies. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces cost.
Highly Trained Water Damage Specialists
We specialize in water and storm damage restoration, the cornerstone of our business. SERVPRO Professionals of Port Huron have extensive water damage restoration training that enables us to get you back to normal.
SERVPRO of Port Huron has all of the latest and greatest restoration technology.
Moisture Detection
Scientific drying principles rely upon specialized equipment to detect, measure, and monitor a property’s moisture levels. Recent advances, like infrared cameras, can help us detect water through a wall, ceiling, or floor.
Water Extraction Equipment
Powerful equipment is key when it comes to the drying process and removing the majority of standing water you may have in your home or business.
To meet this demand, SERVPRO has gas-powered pumps for continuous pumping of high level water. our truck-mounted and portable extraction units make for fast and efficient water removal.
Drying Equipment
Industrial strength air movers and dehumidifiers are needed to remove the remaining moisture from your home or business. Proper drying helps to prevent swelling and warping of floors, walls, and furniture.
High-speed air movers causes moisture to evaporate at a faster pace and Industrial grade dehumidifiers pull the water vapor from the air.
Odor Removers
Air scrubbers and thermal foggers are used to remove the intense smells that accompany fire and water damage. These machines remove air-borne contaminants while controlling the air quality.
Does your business need a deep cleaning now that winter has come to an end? Let SERVPRO of Port Huron take care of your dust bunnies and dirty carpet, leaving you with more time to enjoy this beautiful warm weather.
You don’t have time to worry about the common wear and tear that gradually soils your office. When grime, odor, and moisture challenges go beyond the scope of your regular janitorial staff, call SERVPRO of Port Huron. Whether it’s removing an odor problem or deep cleaning flooring or carpets, you can rely on SERVPRO of Port Huron to make your workspace look its very best.
SERVPRO of Port Huron will get the job done right and get it done quickly, because the SERVPRO Advantage includes these benefits:
Award-winning training
Over 40 years’ experience in the industry
More than 100 exclusive cleaning products
When your business needs more than an "everyday" clean, Call SERVPRO of Port Huron
We know we're headed back to some type of new normal - are you ready? Is your business ready? SERVPRO of Port Huron can help get you there.
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
Our 3 C's........
Consult: Not all businesses are the same, so we’ll tailor a bespoke cleaning program based on the unique needs of each facility.
Clean: Based on the agreed plan, an expert deep clean is initiated using our proprietary EPA-Approved Hospital-Grade cleaning solutions and always adhering to the leading level of cleaning and decontamination standards set by the CDC.
Certify: You’ll know a business is Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned by the shield posted on their front window. Along with digital emblems and other collateral, this beacon represents their commitment to the comfort and security of their employees, customers and community.
Fires can be devastating in so many ways. After the fire is put out, you are left with water damage from a sprinkler system or fire hose, and even worse is the lingering smell of smoke. You need a team of professionals who have certified training in all areas of restoration to help you rid that awful smell and take care of all the damage while you take care of the most important thing, your family.
As fire restoration pros, SERVPRO of Port Huron use 2 primary methods to eliminate odor 1. Dry fogging- Dispenses solvent based deodorants as very small particles 2. Ozone- Activated oxygen quickly dissipates with no residue, fragrances, or chemicals that some can be sensitive to.
Any type of disaster at a medical facility needs to be handled with extreme care and caution, especially when it comes to handling medical waste. The team at SERVPRO of Port Huron has specialized training for both small medical facilities and large hospital losses.
We understand that time is precious to both you and your patients. With the help of SERVPRO of Port Huron, you will be back to helping your patients quicker and with ease knowing that every health guideline was followed and every standard was met.
We all get very busy with our day to day schedules and water damage can really put a wrench in your plans. As inconvenient and time consuming as it may be, leaving water damage for even 1 day can make things significantly worse.
Within Minutes water will spread throughout your property soaking into drywall, upholstery and other belongings.
Within the first 24 hours drywall will spread and break, metal surfaces begin to tarnish and a musty odor becomes present.
Within 48 hours to a week mold and mildew grow and spread, paint blisters, wood flooring swells and doors and windows swell and warp.
After 1 week of being untreated, the time and money needed for restoration significantly increase and the home or business may no longer be structurally sound.
If you travel south for the winter have a friend or family member check on your home every few days and if your business has a basement be sure to check it regularly.
It may be hard to believe with snow hitting the ground but we are actually in the beginning of tornado season in Michigan. Do you have a safety plan to keep you and your family safe?
Make A Plan
-Talk with your kids and educate them on the difference between a tornado watch, a tornado warning and a tornado spotted.
-Show them what to look for as warning signs.
Dark, often greenish sky
Loud roar
Large hail
Large dark and low hanging clouds
- Discuss where to take shelter if there is a tornado. The basement is always the best place but if you are living in an apartment or a home with no basement then you should go towards the center of the home, away from all windows and doors.
For more information on tornado safety, visit this site.
SERVPRO of Port Huron is here to help with any size disaster.
Technology has come a long way! The only way you used be able to receive Emergency information was by radio or television, but there is a better way and that is your cell phone.
Everyone has a cell phone, right? In this day and age, we couldn’t imagine anyone not owning a cell phone; it’s practically unheard of. More people own a cell phone than a car or a TV, and could you blame them. You can watch TV or catch a ride from your phone in minutes. In 2002, only 62% of U.S. adults possessed a cell phone, and that percentage increased to 95% of Americans in 2016. Today, cell phones are used for more than just to make calls. Cell phone capabilities aren’t what they were 10 or even 5 years ago. New technology has helped make our cell phone do practically anything, from GPS services to video chat, to web surfing, and to virtual reality.
Now knowing this, what is the best and quickest way to notify Americans in case of a major emergency? I’d say through our cell phones! You can be warned of upcoming dangers by emergency alerts from anywhere, while choosing how you’d like to receive them from your cell phone. The ability to be warned of oncoming dangers at a moment’s notice can provide you with a jump-start to safety. Here are 5 different ways to set up your emergency alerts from you cell phone.
National updates
Receive updates regarding National Security from Homeland Security, the latest outbreaks from CDC, and computer threats from US-CERT. These notifications are issued through WEA- Wireless Emergency Alerts. If you have ever received an Amber Alert it’s coming from the WEA, which is a default setting in most cell phones.
Statewide activity updates
Do a Google search for a Public Warning System for your state. This will allow you to customize your alerts specifically to your state.
Weather apps for smart phones and tablets
You can receive custom weather alerts from your state or city while customizing the level of warning you want to receive. Apple users can download NOAA Radar Pro and android users can download the app Pro Weather Alert. These apps can range from $2- $3, and is worth every penny to keep you and your family notified of weather emergencies and dangers.
FEMA
The FEMA text message program informs you of safety tips for specific disaster types, and allows you to search for open shelters and disaster recovery centers.
Apple devices-text APPLE to 43362 (4FEMA)
Android devices-text ANDROID to 43362 (4FEMA)
Survive Alert Center
For those of you that are like me and hate cluttering up your email and social media, this is the resource for you. Stay up to date with the latest disaster/emergency, terrorism, disease outbreak, significant earthquake, and severe weather alerts all from one site.
Why choose SERVPRO for your repairs and restoration?
We offer you and your insurance company a variety of competitive advantages.
-Our professionals pride themselves on restoring your home or property correctly the first time and in a timely manner so you can get back to your life. This will allow for lower claims costs for your insurance provider and satisfied customers.
-Our large team of professionals are trained for any size disaster. This means a quicker response time for your home or business.
-SERVPRO franchise professionals can provide an itemized loss inventory. You will receive an Excel formatted report and pictures of important items.
-SERVPRO Franchise Professionals must agree to 21 different guidelines to receive Insurance Client referrals. From insurance to background checks on employees, each requirement is maintained continually to help ensure clients get the best possible service providers performing work.
In an effort to thank our first responders for what they are doing to protect our communities, we are currently offering sanitizing and fogging services for ambulances, fire trucks, and police cars at no cost. We know each company is taking their own precautions, we are offering our services as a professional cleaning company to go above and beyond for you as a thank you.
We are reaching out individually to the first responders in our area, but we want to make sure we don’t miss anyone.
For anyone that would like to be scheduled, or has questions, please contact marketing manager Lauren Goslee on her cell phone at 810-569-2861.
Thank you to everyone who is working so hard to keep us safe in the fight against COVID-19.
Something as simple to understand as this can be crucial for helping your family get out safely. Once you have a plan, PRACTICE IT!
Do you have an escape plan if a fire happens at your home?
Consider these tips to create a plan:
Walk through your home and inspect all possible exits and escape routes. Households with children should consider drawing a floor plan, showing 2 exits of each room (door and window)
A closed door may slow the spread of smoke, heat and fire. Install smoke alarms in every sleeping room, outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home
Everyone in the household must understand the escape plan. When you walk through your plan, check to make sure the escape routes are clear and doors and windows can be opened easily.
Choose an outside meeting place (i.e. neighbor's house, a light post, mailbox, or stop sign) a safe distance in front of your home where everyone can meet after they've escaped. Make sure to mark the location of the meeting place on your escape plan.
If there are infants, elderly, or family members with mobility limitations, make sure that someone is assigned to assist them in the fire drill and in the event of an emergency. Assign a backup person too, in case the designee is not home during the emergency.
Once you're out, stay out! Under no circumstances should you ever go back into a burning building. If someone is missing, inform the fire department dispatcher when you call. Firefighters have the skills and equipment to perform rescues.
Having an escape plan set in place- JUST IN CASE- can be life saving and beneficial.
If you have a fire at your home, call SERVPRO of Port Huron to take care of the disaster. Available 24/7 at 810-966-7900
-Utilize Drying Equipment and Monitor Dryingto ensure
-Disposal of Debris
Abiding by OSHA guidelines and all applicable health regulations, SERVPRO technicians remove moisture, sewage, and contaminants, disinfecting and deodorizing as they safely clean your customers home and restorable belongings.
SERVPRO of Port Huron is there for you when a disaster strikes, 24/7 365 days a year- even on holidays!
We make it "Like it never even happened."
What we can do to aid in the defeat of coronavirus
The CDC is responding to an outbreak of a respiratory disease caused by a novel (new) coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) that was first detected in Wuhan City, Hubei Province, China and has spread to 60 locations internationally (as of this publication), including cases in the United States.
The virus known as “coronavirus disease 2019” (abbreviated “COVID-19”) is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person or through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It may be possible that a person can get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes, but this is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads. Source
Scope of Cleanup Protocol
SERVPRO professionals can perform a proactive cleanup that involves facility or structure cleaning and disinfection where the customer states that there is no active known threat of COVID-19 contamination or exposure. The customer will be required to acknowledge that cleaning and disinfecting will only apply to the current state of the structure and contents. The structure would not be protected from future COVID-19 contamination if an infected person was to enter and occupy the building.
Cleanup Scope of Work and Planning
The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets, and tables at a minimum.
These same surfaces are mentioned in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces as well:
• Kitchen/Food Areas • Bathrooms • Schools/Classrooms • Offices • Retail Spaces • Water Fountains • Shelving and Racks
• Sales Counters • Carpets and rugs • Stair Handrails • Elevator Cars • Playground Equipment • Fitness Equipment
Cleanup and Disinfecting Procedures
Cleanup procedures generally include cleaning of porous and non-porous surfaces, disinfecting of non-porous surfaces, cleaning and disinfecting of equipment, tools, and/or supplies used for cleanup process, and disposal of waste. The CDC recommends usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar type organisms to COVID-19.
SERVPROXIDE, SERVPRO’s proprietary disinfectant, is a hospital-grade disinfectant that has demonstrated effectiveness against viruses similar to SARS-CoV-2 on hard, non-porous surfaces. In addition, SERVPROXIDE currently has dozens of EPA-approved claims including Feline coronavirus, Canine coronavirus, Staphylococcus (MRSA), E. coli, Salmonella, Rotavirus, Swine flu (H1N1) and more. Porous surfaces that are not water-sensitive, such as carpet and other fabric material, cannot be disinfected but can be sanitized using SERVPROXIDE.
If your building or facility needs to be disinfected or sanitized, we can help! Give SERVPRO of Port Huron a call at 810-966-7900, 24 hours per day, to schedule your on-site inspection from one of our team members.
What is a sump pump and what happens if it stops working?
Your sump pump sits inside a well, called a crock, that pumps excess water out of drains in your home and away from the structure
Hundreds of Michigan residence are finding out just how important it is to have a battery back up for your sump pump in the case of a power outage. After the severe weather we experienced this weekend many basements have been left with standing water.
A sump pump eliminates moisture and prevents flooding by collecting excess water from drains and pumping it out and away from the building. You will find a sump pump sitting in a specially constructed pit that sits lower than the basement floor in homes that are susceptible to major rain and snow fall.
If your pump stops working, water could get into your basement and foundation walls. This may cause mold and mildew to grow and if enough water builds up, the basement can flood.
How do you know your sump pump is working?
You can check your sump pump tow different ways. Two separate plugs are attached to the unit. Unplug them both and then plug in only the one for the pump. If the pump does not immediately turn on then something is wrong. Your other option is to add water and wait to see if the pump turns on and properly evacuates the water.
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