Preparing Your Home for Fall to Prevent Water Damage | SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties
9/3/2024 (Permalink)
Safeguarding your home from water damage is easy this Fall with these insights from SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties!
As the leaves begin to change and the cool breeze starts to roll in, it’s essential to prepare your home for the fall season in the Cape. Fall weather here can be unpredictable, with a mix of sunny days, rain showers, and the occasional cold snap. To ensure your home stays dry and cozy, follow these tips from SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties to prevent water damage.
Inspect Your Roof and GuttersYour roof is your home’s first line of defense against the elements. Start by checking for any missing or damaged shingles and repair them promptly. It’s also a good idea to clean your gutters and downspouts. Leaves, twigs, and other debris can accumulate in the fall, leading to clogs that can cause water to overflow and damage your home’s foundation or interior.
Seal Windows and DoorsDrafty windows and doors not only let cold air in but can also allow water to seep into your home. Inspect the seals around your windows and doors for any gaps or cracks. Use weather stripping or caulk to seal these areas, keeping the elements out and your home’s temperature regulated.
Check for Plumbing LeaksFall is a great time to inspect your plumbing for any leaks that could worsen with colder temperatures. Look under sinks, around toilets, and near your water heater for any signs of moisture or dripping. Addressing these small leaks now can prevent significant water damage and costly repairs down the line.
Prepare Your YardTake a walk around your property to ensure your yard is ready for fall weather. Trim any overhanging branches that could break and cause damage during a storm. Ensure that your landscaping slopes away from your home to prevent water from pooling near your foundation. Additionally, store any outdoor furniture or decorations that could be damaged by wind or rain.
Test Your Sump PumpIf your home has a basement, a sump pump is crucial for keeping it dry during heavy rains. Test your sump pump to ensure it’s working correctly and consider having a backup power source in case of a power outage. A functioning sump pump can be the difference between a dry basement and a costly water damage repair.
Call SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott CountiesPreparing your home for fall is an excellent step in preventing water damage, but sometimes, despite our best efforts, the unexpected happens. If you experience water damage in your home, SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties is Here to Help®. Our team of professionals is trained to handle water damage quickly and efficiently, restoring your home to its pre-damage condition.
Don’t wait for disaster to strike—prepare your home for fall today!
Visit SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties for more tips on protecting your home and to learn more about our services.
Prepare Your Commercial Space for Fall and Winter | SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties
8/15/2024 (Permalink)
Preparing your commercial property for Fall is easy with these helpful tips and tricks from SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties!
As the vibrant colors of fall begin to transform the Cape and our other communities, it’s time for business owners to start thinking about preparing their commercial spaces for the colder months ahead. With SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties, you can ensure your property is ready to withstand the challenges of fall and winter weather.
Assess and Address Potential Water DamageFall and winter bring increased rainfall, snow, and ice, all of which can lead to water damage if your building isn’t properly prepared. Start by inspecting your roof for any leaks or weak spots. Clean out gutters and downspouts to prevent water from pooling and causing damage. Inside, check for any signs of leaks or water damage, such as stains on ceilings or walls, and address these issues promptly.
Safeguard Against Storm DamageCape Girardeau is no stranger to storms, especially during the fall and winter months. High winds, heavy rain, and snow can all pose threats to your commercial property. Trim trees and remove any dead branches that could fall and cause damage. Secure outdoor furniture and equipment to prevent them from becoming projectiles during a storm. Additionally, ensure that your windows and doors are properly sealed to keep out the elements.
Prevent Fire HazardsWith the arrival of colder weather, the use of heating systems increases, which can raise the risk of fire. Have your heating system inspected and serviced by a professional to ensure it’s in good working condition. Replace any old or damaged wiring, and make sure smoke detectors are functioning properly. It’s also a good idea to review your fire safety plan with your employees and conduct a fire drill to ensure everyone knows what to do in case of an emergency.
Plan for Snow and Ice RemovalSnow and ice can create hazardous conditions for both your employees and customers. Have a plan in place for prompt snow and ice removal from walkways, parking lots, and entrances. Stock up on salt or sand to prevent slippery surfaces, and consider hiring a professional snow removal service to handle larger accumulations.
Why Choose SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties?At SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties, we understand the unique challenges that fall and winter weather can pose to your commercial space. Our team of experts is ready to help you prepare for the season and address any damage that may occur. From water and storm damage restoration to fire damage repair, we’ve got you covered.
Don’t wait until it’s too late. Take action now to protect your business.
Visit SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties to learn more about our services and how we can help you get ready for the fall and winter seasons.
The Reality of House Fires and How to Prevent Them | SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties
8/2/2024 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties is ready to help you have a fire-safe summer season with these helpful tips!
House fires can be devastating, leaving families with damaged homes and lost possessions. Understanding the reality of house fires and knowing how to prevent them is crucial for every homeowner. At SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties, we’re dedicated to helping you keep your home safe and secure.
Common Causes of House FiresHouse fires can start in various ways, but some causes are more common than others. By recognizing these risks, you can take proactive steps to prevent them:
Cooking Accidents. The kitchen is one of the most common places for house fires to start. Unattended cooking, grease fires, and faulty appliances can quickly lead to dangerous situations. Always stay in the kitchen while cooking, keep flammable objects away from the stove, and ensure appliances are in good working order.
Heating Equipment. During the colder months, heating equipment like space heaters, fireplaces, and wood stoves become essential. However, improper use or maintenance can lead to fires. Keep space heaters away from flammable objects, have your chimney inspected annually, and never leave a fire unattended.
Electrical Issues. Faulty wiring, overloaded circuits, and outdated electrical systems are significant fire hazards. Regularly inspect your home’s electrical system, avoid overloading outlets, and use surge protectors to safeguard your electronics.
Candles. Candles add a lovely touch of ambiance to our home, but they are a common fire starter. Never leave the room when you are burning one, or switch to battery-operated versions.
Fire Prevention TipsPreventing house fires involves a combination of vigilance, maintenance, and preparedness. Here are some practical tips to help you keep your home safe:
Install Smoke Alarms. Smoke alarms are your first line of defense in detecting a fire. Install them on every level of your home, inside bedrooms, and outside sleeping areas. Test them monthly and replace batteries at least once a year.
Create a Fire Escape Plan. In the event of a fire, every second counts. Develop a fire escape plan with your family, including multiple exit routes and a designated meeting place outside. Practice the plan regularly to ensure everyone knows what to do.
Use Fire-Resistant Materials. When renovating or building your home, consider using fire-resistant materials for roofing, insulation, and siding. These materials can slow the spread of fire and provide additional protection.
Keep an Eye on Your Home’s Exterior. Clear leaves, debris, and flammable materials from around your home. Trim trees and shrubs, and ensure your gutters are clean to prevent the buildup of dry leaves and twigs that can catch fire.
By taking these steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of a house fire and protect your home and loved ones. Keep your home safe and secure. The more you understand about the reality of house fires, the easier it will be to prevent them.
Even the most prepared home could still end up damaged. Call SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties for fast restoration.
Protect Your Home from Summer Storms | SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties
7/15/2024 (Permalink)
When storms strike, call SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties to restore your property to preloss condition faster!
Summer is a time for fun in the sun, but it also brings the threat of severe weather. In Cape Girardeau and our surrounding communities summer storms can strike with little warning, bringing heavy rains, high winds, and even hail. Understanding how to prepare and protect your home can save you from costly damage and keep your family safe.
The Cape experiences its fair share of severe summer weather. Thunderstorms, often accompanied by lightning, heavy rainfall, and strong winds, are common. Occasionally, these storms can lead to flash flooding or power outages, making it crucial to be prepared.
Preparing Your Home for Summer StormsInspect and Repair Your Roof. One of the first lines of defense against summer storms is a sturdy roof. Regularly inspect your roof for missing or damaged shingles and make necessary repairs. This simple step can prevent leaks and water damage during heavy rains.
Clean Gutters and Downspouts. Clogged gutters can lead to water overflow and damage to your home’s foundation. Ensure that gutters and downspouts are clear of debris so water can flow freely away from your home. Consider installing gutter guards to minimize future clogs.
Trim Trees and Secure Outdoor Items. High winds can turn tree branches into projectiles and cause significant damage. Trim any overhanging branches near your home and remove dead or weak trees. Additionally, secure outdoor furniture, grills, and other items that could become hazardous in strong winds.
Check Windows and Doors. Ensure that windows and doors are properly sealed to prevent water from seeping in. Consider installing storm shutters for added protection. If shutters aren’t an option, plywood can be a temporary solution during a storm warning.
Create an Emergency Kit. Having an emergency kit on hand is essential. Include items such as bottled water, non-perishable food, flashlights, batteries, a first aid kit, and important documents. Make sure everyone in your household knows where the kit is located and what it contains.
SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties Is Here to Help®Even with the best preparation, storm damage can still occur. If your home suffers from storm damage, the experts at SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties are ready to assist. Our team has the experience and equipment to handle everything from minor repairs to major restoration projects.
Act Now to Protect Your HomeDon’t wait for a storm to hit—take action now to safeguard your home and loved ones. Make these steps part of your regular routine so that even the fastest moving storm doesn’t catch you off-guard. With regular home maintenance and a well-rehearsed emergency plan, you will be ready for anything.
Stay safe and enjoy a worry-free summer!
If you have storm damage, call SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties and recover fast.
Why Every Business Should Have an Emergency Plan | SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties
7/3/2024 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties is Here to Help® your business prepare for disaster with an updated ERP!
Protecting Your Business with a Solid Emergency PlanDisasters, whether natural or man-made, can strike at any moment, leaving businesses vulnerable and unprepared. Imagine a severe storm blowing through, a fire breaking out, or a plumbing failure causing floods that leaves your property dealing with damages. These scenarios highlight the importance of having an emergency plan in place to ensure your business can withstand and quickly recover from unexpected events.
Minimize Downtime and Financial LossOne of the primary reasons every business should have an emergency plan is to minimize downtime and financial loss. When a disaster strikes, every second counts. An effective emergency plan enables you to act swiftly, reducing the time it takes to get your business back up and running. This not only saves money but also maintains your reputation with clients and customers.
Ensure Employee SafetyThe safety of your employees should always be a top priority. An emergency plan provides clear instructions on what to do in various disaster scenarios, ensuring everyone knows their role and the safest actions to take. Regularly practicing these plans through drills can make a significant difference in a real emergency, keeping your team safe and calm.
Protect Your AssetsYour business assets, including equipment, inventory, and critical data, are vital to your operations. An emergency plan helps protect these assets by outlining measures such as backup systems, secure storage, and insurance coverage. Knowing your assets are safeguarded allows you to focus on other critical aspects during a disaster.
Maintain Customer TrustIn times of crisis, maintaining customer trust is crucial. If your business can quickly respond and continue providing services, customers will feel more confident in your reliability. A well-prepared emergency plan ensures continuity of operations, reinforcing your commitment to serving your clients even in challenging times.
SERVPRO® Can HelpCreating an emergency plan might seem daunting, but you don’t have to do it alone. SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties specializes in helping businesses develop comprehensive emergency plans tailored to their specific needs. Our expertise ensures that your plan is robust, covering all potential risks and ensuring a swift recovery process.
Your business deserves the best chance to thrive, no matter what challenges come your way.
Don’t wait until disaster strikes to think about emergency preparedness. Start today by visiting SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties and let our experienced team guide you through the process of creating a plan that protects your business, your employees, and your future.
Protect Your Home from Strong Thunderstorms | SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties
6/17/2024 (Permalink)
Whether its storm damage cleanup or restoration, SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties is ready to respond in a moments notice to your call.
Understanding the Risks: How Strong Thunderstorms Can Damage Your HomeStrong thunderstorms are a force of nature that can wreak havoc on your home if you’re not prepared. From heavy rain and lightning to powerful winds and hail, these storms bring a variety of risks that can lead to costly damage. As a homeowner, it’s crucial to understand these risks and take proactive steps to protect your property.
Research conducted by the National Severe Storms Laboratory has shown that strong thunderstorms can produce wind speeds exceeding 50 miles per hour, which are strong enough to cause significant damage to roofs, siding, and windows. Additionally, a study published in the Journal of Applied Meteorology and Climatology found that hailstorms are becoming more frequent and severe, posing a greater threat to homes and vehicles.
Proactive Measures to Mitigate DamageTo minimize the risk of damage to your home during strong thunderstorms, it’s essential to take proactive measures. Start by inspecting your roof regularly for any signs of damage or wear and tear. Replace missing or damaged shingles and reinforce weak areas to ensure your roof can withstand high winds and hail.
Another critical step is to secure outdoor furniture, equipment, and decorations before a storm hits. Strong winds can turn these items into dangerous projectiles, causing damage to your home and posing a threat to your safety. Additionally, consider installing impact-resistant windows and doors to protect your home from flying debris and hail damage.
Trust SERVPRO® to Protect Your HomeAt SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties, we understand that even the most prepared home may still see damage during severe weather. Our team of highly trained professionals is ready to respond to your property as soon as things are safe, so you can get back to life fast no matter what happens.
Don’t wait until it’s too late—take proactive steps to protect your home today.
Contact us now to safeguard your home against strong thunderstorms!
Safely Enjoy Outdoor Grilling and Bonfires | SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties
6/3/2024 (Permalink)
Don't forget about fire safety! Follow these tips from SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties to ensure a fun and safe night.
Grilling Season is Here: Let’s Keep It Safe!With the warmer weather upon us, many of us are eager to fire up the grill, gather around a bonfire, or head out for a camping trip. However, amidst the excitement, it’s crucial to prioritize safety. SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties is here to offer some essential tips to ensure you can enjoy outdoor activities without any hazards.
Understanding the RisksBefore we dive into safety tips, let’s take a quick look at the risks associated with outdoor grilling, bonfires, and camping fires. According to a study by the National Fire Protection Association, outdoor cooking grills caused an average of 10,600 home fires per year in the United States, resulting in millions of dollars in property damage. Additionally, the U.S. Fire Administration reports that nearly 5,000 injuries occur annually due to outdoor fires, with a significant portion resulting from grilling accidents.
Safety Tips from the ExpertsLocation, Location, Location: Whether you’re grilling in your backyard or enjoying a bonfire at a campsite, always ensure that your fire pit or grill is placed on a stable, non-flammable surface. Keep it away from any structures, trees, or overhanging branches.
Proper Ventilation: Good airflow is essential for safe outdoor fires. Make sure your grill or fire pit is positioned in an open area away from any obstructions that could impede ventilation.
Keep a Watchful Eye: Never leave a fire unattended, especially when children or pets are nearby. Assign someone to monitor the fire at all times and have a fire extinguisher or water source readily available in case of emergencies.
Use the Right Fuel: Only use charcoal or propane grills outdoors and never indoors or in enclosed spaces. When using wood for a bonfire or camping fire, ensure it’s seasoned and dry to minimize excessive smoke and prevent sparks.
Stay Safe and Enjoy Your Outdoor Adventures!By following these simple safety tips, you can ensure that your outdoor grilling, bonfires, and camping trips are enjoyable and hazard-free. Remember, safety should always be a top priority, so take the necessary precautions to protect yourself, your loved ones, and your property.
For more information on fire safety and restoration services, visit SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties. Let’s make this outdoor season a safe and memorable one!
Storm Planning With Kids | SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties
5/15/2024 (Permalink)
When the storm has passed, call SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties to help you recover.
When a storm blows in, it can create a chaotic scene. Anxiety can get high as your dogs begin to pace around or hide, your kids are starting to panic and you aren’t sure if you should tuck everyone into bed or into the safest spot of your home.
With the threat of tornadoes, strong thunderstorms and floods not uncommon for our area, it’s important to make sure your household is prepared for anything—especially your young kiddos.
Make storm safety planning a family affair. You can ease everyone’s nerves and ensure that your whole family will respond quickly and safely any time a storm moves in.
Knowing What to Look ForSpending time looking at the clouds with your kids can be a really fun experience. While you try to decide what shapes you see, talk about how to identify storm clouds. Make sure they understand that fast-moving, dark or green-tinted clouds mean it is time to head inside. Introduce them to the sounds of thunder, and talk about what lightning is.
As you talk about how storms look and sound, make sure you also explain the sounds of safety as well. Play tornado sirens on your phone for them, and then find out the next time they will be tested around town. Take the kids outside to hear them well, and then make a game out of it—whoever hears the siren first wins. Keep it light, but make sure they understand that noise is there so they can safely get to shelter ahead of a storm.
Preparing for the EventIf you don’t already have a family storm emergency plan, it’s time to make one. Gather everyone together and start talking about what will happen when the weather starts getting rough.
Let the kids tell you what they think the safest part of your home is, and talk about why a spot on a low level without windows is a good choice. Walk them down to where your safe space will be, and let them add some comfort items. Comfy blankets, pillows, books and toys can help ease stress levels when you do have to wait out a warning.
Make an emergency kit together to keep near that space. Include flashlights, batteries and first-aid supplies. Choose some shelf-stable snacks that everyone likes, and keep plenty of water available as well. Make your kit kid-friendly with fun band-aids, and give them their own flashlights to use as well.
While most items can live in your kit permanently, when storms are predicted add your prescription medications, candles and matches in order to be fully prepared for potential damage or power outages.
You might want to stock up on non-electronic toys like board games, activity books and other fun items. If your power is out for an extended amount of time these will be a great way to keep everyone happy and distracted.
Keeping CalmFear of storms is common in all ages, but children can be particularly nervous when lightning and thunder are picking up. For many children, offering them solid facts can quell a lot of concerns.
Tell them the low likelihood of experiencing extreme damage during a thunderstorm or tornado. While you can never rule out damage, most homes primarily suffer roof, siding and damage in the yard.
Most importantly, find ways to keep yourself calm so that you can focus on the safety of your family. The more you can prepare ahead of time, the easier riding out every severe weather event will be.
Storm damage should always be addressed quickly. Contact SERVPRO® day or night for the restoration services you need.
Preparing Ahead of the Storm | SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties
5/6/2024 (Permalink)
When the storm passes, call SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties for all your storm damage restoration needs.
Mother Nature is something we have to develop a little respect for. Sometimes we will hate what she brings us, and other times we will be singing her praises. Regardless of how we feel about her, we always need to be prepared for the weather she shares everyday.
Each season brings us a variety of things to both prepare for and be thankful for. Spring and summer bring plenty of rain and occasional severe weather, but it also comes with moderate heat and plenty of reasons to get outside. In the fall and winter, we still see rain and occasional freezes, but most of the days are still just warm enough to get outside every once and a while.
Regardless of what the weather does bring, the more we are prepared, the safer we can stay. Taking action to get our homes ready and ourselves ready ahead of any storm will mean we ride out every storm well.
Preparing Your Home
The first step to being ready for any storm is taking care of your home. You can prepare your house throughout the year in order to mitigate as much damage as possible when the weather does get severe.
Start outside with a little yard prep. Make sure your gutters and downspouts are clear, and that water can run away from your home. Add sloping or organic material to your yard in order to increase absorption and drainage.
Trim your trees regularly to prevent falling limbs, and secure any furniture that lives outside permanently. Our area can frequently see flooding or tornadoes, so stay prepared for water and wind to mitigate damage.
Keep up with roof repairs and make sure your attic is well-sealed. Replace loose shingles, and ensure your gutter system isn’t loose anywhere. Walk the outside of your house at least twice a year to look for any wear and tear that you can fix before it turns into a bigger problem.
Inside your home, dedicate a safe space on the lowest level of your home to ride out severe thunderstorms or tornadoes. Keep emergency supplies nearby as well. Store important paperwork in a location that might not be drenched if the Mississippi rises or your roof springs a leak.
Preparing Yourself
Along with keeping your home prepared to weather storms well, you should also take some regular steps to prepare yourself.
Always have two ways to receive weather alerts. This should include something that does not require electricity in case a storm blows through that knocks out the power.
Create a plan with your family so that everyone knows where to go when things get severe. This should especially include how to stay safe during a tornado and a flood. Make sure everyone knows what your evacuation plan is as well, in case orders are issued.
The more you can do throughout the year to keep yourself and your home safe from storms, the less your damage will be. Being prepared also means you can rest a little easier and enjoy the nice weather each season brings.
Do you have storm damage on your property? Contact us to get things repaired quickly.
What Happens After a Water Leak | SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties
5/1/2024 (Permalink)
Trust SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties to provide comprehensive services for a full recovery for all your water damage restoration needs.
Is there anything worse than dealing with a water leak in your home? It’s no fun when you are home and can deal with it immediately, but it’s even worse when you have been away for a while and come back to find water all over the floor.
Dealing with water, especially anything that has been allowed to sit for a little while, is much more involved than just grabbing some towels or a mop and bucket. If water has been hanging out in your home, there is a good chance you are also dealing with mold and odors.
The faster you can call in the pros, the easier your restoration process will be.
Addressing Water LeaksWhen water starts getting into all the places it shouldn’t be, it can cause complete havoc in your home. Even a small amount of water can end up in your walls, under the floors and in some of the most difficult-to-reach places of your house.
Unfortunately, drying up the water you can see may not be enough, especially when you don’t catch leaks right away. Moisture that gets under your floorboards or into your drywall doesn’t just evaporate or dry up on its own either. Due to the enclosed, tight nature of some of the spots water can get into, water droplets can linger long enough to create mold, smells and other damage.
The longer moisture is allowed to stay inside your walls without airflow, the more things can start to wear down over time. Metal support systems can start to rust, and mold can start to set in and spread. When mold starts spreading, it can move fast, leaving your home at serious risk for a major outbreak.
Following Your NoseOne of the earliest signs of mold and mildew growth is a musty odor. If you notice a wet, earthy smell after you have cleaned up a water leak, use your nose to sniff out the source. If you can’t locate where the smell is coming from, it’s time to call in the pros.
With one call, day or night, our water damage restoration experts will start reversing water damage and everything that comes along with it. We will remove and replace damaged drywall, warped or soft floorboards and track down and stop mold growth. We will disinfect and remove as much odor-causing mold and moldy materials as we can, and we will seal anything that cannot be removed permanently.
We will also dig a little deeper to make your house smell like home again by cleaning your HVAC system and sanitizing all the surfaces around the affected area. We won’t be done with your recovery until every sign that a leak happened in the first place is gone.
Don’t ignore signs of a water leak. Contact SERVPRO® for a full recovery.