My Leak is Gone, But Now What?

8/26/2021 (Permalink)

Leaky pipes are like termites. They may leave telltale signs, but you often don’t notice them until the damage has been done.

You should occasionally check your home or business for leaking pipes. Insurance companies often do not cover the damage they cause, which is why it’s so important to identify them early.

If your leak is hard to access, you’ll probably have to call in expert help to fix it. But if you can find it, you may be able to repair it by looking up online tutorials.

Become a Leak Detective

Is there a leak?  Look for tell-tale signs, such as stains on your ceiling, damaged or loose flooring, or grout and caulking that are coming away. Also, check for loose sink hands or faucets. See if your toilet can be moved, even a little. Plus, check for mold.

Where is That Leak Coming From?

Where exactly is the leak? Grab your flashlight and find out. Check under countertops and sinks. Open the panel behind your tub. For small leaks, fill a sink or tub. Let water drain and check visible pipe joints for dampness. Use a dry tissue or handkerchief to detect small amounts of moisture at joints.

Do You Need a Plumber? 

If you can easily get to a leaky pipe, you can likely repair it yourself. But if you have to call a plumber, don’t worry—a small investment now can save you a lot down in the future.

Success! My Leak Is Gone. But My Baseboard Is Moldy…

Have you already experienced damage from a leaky pipe? Call SERVPRO®. We’ve been cleaning up water damage since 1967!

We’ll pick up the phone any time, day or night. As a national company with local ownership, we deliver a powerful combination of national expertise and neighborly customer service.

Have Your Cabinets Been Damaged By Water? SERVPRO Can Help You!

8/26/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Statesboro can help you with wet cabinets.

Kitchen Or Bathroom Cabinets Damaged by Water?

Water damage wreaks havoc in homes. All it takes is for a single pipe to burst or one appliance to develop a fault, and a small leak can soon become something much bigger. Coastal Georgia is also prone to flooding at times which means that there is a risk of water affecting your house.

After water damage to your Statesboro area home, you need to get everything dry as quickly as possible. A damp home is unpleasant to be in, and there is more of a risk of long-term damage if you do not take swift action. Damp areas are a breeding ground for secondary issues such as mold spores and mildew.

One of the leading causes of interest for homeowners after a leak or flood of any kind is how to dry out hard-to-reach places such as behind cabinets. Floors and walls around cabinets are not easily accessible, and the extra layers of material there present a significant challenge. SERVPRO recommends contacting our experts for a full assessment of the situation as soon as possible.

Many factors affect drying around and behind cabinetry. These include the types of wood, the paint used, the position, and if the cabinet has its own back or backs onto the wall. Because the backs of cabinets are hard to dry, our IICRC certified technicians are trained to carefully drill holes in either the cabinet or the wall to allow for better air circulation.

Our professional teams also remove molding underneath cabinets and drills holes in the base as necessary to ventilate the floor beneath the cabinet. In many cases, the molding can be put back after and may not need to be replaced by new molding.

Drying under and behind cabinets is not just about creating better ventilation through drilling holes or removing molding. We also use dehumidifiers and air movers to dry the area. Our certified professionals come equipped with powerful vent systems that force dry air under cabinets to speed the drying process.

SERVPRO monitors cabinets carefully every step of the way to ensure that the drying process is as efficient and speedy as possible. We handle your furniture with care, and when drying is complete, we patch any holes and put the molding back - "Like it never even happened."

If you are worried about your cabinets after water damage, give SERVPRO of Statesboro a call at (912) 764-9542.

Three Reasons To Choose SERVPRO

8/26/2021 (Permalink)

We have the expertise and equipment to help you, no matter what size disaster you are facing.

Quick! Name three things that come in groups of three. If you choose sneezes, barbershop trio singers, or three-leaf clovers, you’re right on the money. We’d like to add one more big THREE: our trifecta of service.

When you need somewhere to turn for emergency cleaning and restoration, there are three great reasons to choose SERVPRO®: science-backed cleaning, a strong ethos of teamwork, and 24-hour service.

Let us take a minute to tell you about each of these in more detail.

We Bring the Science

At SERVPRO®, we do the research to bring the exact protocol you need, whether it’s flood remediation or disinfecting.

You may not have thought much about the science behind cleaning….but that’s OK because we have! For everyday disinfection against diseases such as COVID-19, we only use EPA-approved products.

And we follow standards set by organizations such as the CDC to ensure you’re getting hospital-grade cleaning.

You’re on Our Team

One thing that makes SERVPRO® great is our teamwork. We synergize to get you the right cleaning and restoration services at the right time. And best of all, you’re part of our team.

Whether it’s a defensive cleaning program or an emergency job, we work with you to create the best plan for your business. We consult with you before we get started, and check in to make sure we’re providing exactly what you need.

We Are Here 24/7

Unfortunately, disaster doesn’t conveniently schedule an appointment between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. to strike. It can happen at any time.

Lucky for our SERVPRO® customers, we are ready, any time. You can call our hotline or fill out a web form and we’ll assess your problem and give you the cleaning and restoration assistance you need to get your business up and running again.

So there you have it—three excellent reasons to choose us!

When disaster strikes, SERVPRO of Statesboro is ready to assist. Give us a call at (912) 764-9542.

SERVPRO on the Golf Course!

8/26/2021 (Permalink)

It was a fun time at the 19th hole!

SERVPRO of Statesboro tries to be involved in this close-knit community any time we have the opportunity, including being an active member of the Statesboro-Bulloch Chamber of Commerce. In May, we sponsored a hole at the 26th Annual Past Chair's Chamber Tournament.

Each year, the Statesboro-Bulloch Chamber of Commerce hosts the golf tournament to honor the previous chairman. It is the largest fundraiser of the year.  

Our Account Manager, Christy Smith set up our SERVPRO tent at "the 19th hole" and provided lots of yummy snacks and cold beverages for the golfers.  Christy loved being able to see and visit with a lot of our SERVPRO customers, as well as meet potential new clients.  Nothing wrong with mixing a little business with pleasure.  Fun was had by all! 

SERVPRO Wants to Help You Reduce the Risk of Dryer Fires

8/24/2021 (Permalink)

Thousands of dryer fires are caused by lint every year, yet they can be easily prevented with a few minutes of cleaning.

Regular maintenance of your dryer will help to improve the drying speed of your clothing, reduce energy usage, and most importantly, reduce the risk of dryer fires! Here are a few ways to get cleaning…

• One of the best precautions is to empty the lint trap after every load. Use of laundry detergent, fabric softener, and dryer sheets can lead to an unseen waxy build-up or film over your lint trap. Remove any large clumps of lint build-up that are visible. Fill up a bucket or sink with warm water and a little dish soap and gently scrub with a toothbrush until clean. If you run water over the filter, it should be able to pass through easily without any pooling. Ensure that there are no tears on the screen.  
• Pull out the dryer from the wall and unplug the machine. Ideally, you will pull the dryer all the way out so that you can vacuum underneath it all. You’ll want to suck up any loose debris and then wash and dry the floor.
• Remove the vent off the back of the dryer. Using a screwdriver, remove the vent clamp and slide the vent (dryer duct) off the dryer. Reach into the hole on the back of the dryer, remove any large clumps of lint and then follow with your vacuum attachment reaching as far in as you can. Metal ducts are much less of a fire risk than foil or plastic vents and, if a fire does start, are more likely to contain it.
• Clean the inside drum. Using a rag, wipe down the inside of the dryer with a 50/50 water and vinegar mixture. Dry thoroughly. If you have an automatic drying setting, give the moisture sensor electrodes a cleaning with a cotton ball dipped in rubbing alcohol. Buildup from lint or dryer sheets can affect these sensors, leading to either damp or overly dried clothing. These are usually located just inside the dryer below the door opening. Don’t forget to clean the inside of the door too!

Do a deep cleaning at least annually with regular maintenance to remove any visible lint for best fire prevention. 

In case of fire, SERVPRO of Statesboro is available 24/7 to come in and make it "Like it never even happened."

Have You Had A Positive Case In Your Office?

8/24/2021 (Permalink)

Now is the time to be proactive.

SERVPRO of Statesboro uses an EPA-approved cleaner, which we can use as a preventative measure to disinfect and sanitize for the current pandemic.

We are strictly following CDC regulations and staying educated and up to date regarding their processes and requirements. 

The novel coronavirus (COVID-19) can easily be spread from person to person. Having your workplace sanitized as a preventative measure can be an effective way of being proactive in preventing the spread of possible contamination.

To reduce the risk of infection and the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) please have your employees follow these simple steps:

1. Wash your hands often and thoroughly
2. Be diligent in cleaning
3. Avoid touching your nose, mouth, and face
4. Avoid close contact with people. Keep all interactions at least 6-feet apart and avoid handshakes

SERVPRO of Statesboro is here to help you and your business during this pandemic. Please don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions or concerns you may have.

What Do I Do After The Fire Truck Pulls Off???

8/24/2021 (Permalink)

It's essential to hire a professional immediately after a fire loss in your home.

When a homeowner sees the fire truck leave their home after extinguishing a fire, it’s not uncommon for the owner to ask the question, What’s next? Since this kind of devastation can leave the owners' heads spinning, it may be difficult to make the wisest decisions, especially based on the knowledge that they have acquired over the years. Also, if this is the owners' first experience with dealing with a house fire, they may be confused and stunned. Fortunately, there are resources available that can assist a homeowner with getting through these hours with as few disruptions and discomfort as possible. By calling SERVPRO, a representative will arrive with the knowledge to provide the homeowners with a comprehensive plan to restore their property to its original preloss condition, "Like it never even happened."

Emergency Services – 24/7

Because a fire can occur in a home at any time of the day or night, it is important to be able to get the help that they need without any unnecessary delays. Once the fire truck leaves the property, the owner and their family must know how to respond to minimize this devastating situation.  For instance, the windows and doors should be boarded up so that intruders cannot enter the home and cause additional damage or begin to take away items that were not damaged by the fire. This is why we offer emergency services to the owners that contact us, especially so we can help with taking the appropriate actions, while also devising a plan. Additionally, because no job is too small or too big, our technicians are trained in developing a customized plan to fit your situation.
 
Highly trained experienced professional restoration technicians

Even if a homeowner has dealt with fire damage in the home before, they can still use the help of a professional. This is because fire damage must be handled by trained experienced professionals that know how to restore the home to its pre-fire condition. For instance, when a fire occurs in the home, there are a wide variety of damages remaining. One of the most common involves extracting all of the water that the firefighters used to put out the fire as quickly as possible, specifically so that the family does not have to deal with secondary issues such as microbial growth.  Another part of the clean-up process deals with smoke damage. While some areas of the home may not show any visible signs of fire damage, the smoke and soot from the fire can circulate to unaffected rooms. The SERVPRO fire & smoke remediation technicians,  with IICRC and in-house training, use specialized equipment to remove the smoke from the carpeting, draperies, flooring, walls, ceilings, and other areas that have been affected. Ozone machines, air scrubbers, and several types of foggers help to limit this kind of smoke and soot damage.

When firefighters pull away from a home after a fire, the homeowner is tasked with the job of cleaning up and getting the home back to a pre-fire condition. To ensure the clean-up process is handled correctly, the owner will need to solicit help. Because our technicians are highly trained in fire restoration cleaning up services, we can assist you with doing a thorough job before occupying the home again. So, for help with fire damage in your home, contact SERVPRO of Statesboro at 912-754-9542.

Fire Damage Calls For Professional Help

8/24/2021 (Permalink)

Dealing with fire damage at any level can be stressful and disconcerting. Even a small amount of harm will disrupt your daily life, and most likely mean you’ll have to find somewhere else to stay temporarily while your home is restored to normal for safety reasons. It is good to know ahead of time of a reputable restoration company that you can call in a time of crisis, such as SERVPRO.

Fire damage never comes at a convenient time. However, understanding some things about the different steps of fire remediation is not difficult, and can help you to have peace of mind when tragedy strikes. At SERVPRO, we’ll take you through all the steps before even beginning any work, and explain questions you may have.

Loss from fire damage presents different challenges than regular repair and cleaning. The combination of the impact of intense heat, smoke residues, and water from firefighters creates an effect that will need various kinds of services from the fire restoration company. 

Fire damage restoration services can be divided up into five categories.

Mitigation Services
The goal here is to secure your home and stop any more damage from occurring. Mitigation can include boarding up any openings and establishing a source of electricity that is temporary to your home. Structures that are wet from firefighting efforts will need emergency drying, so there is not any secondary water damage.

Structural Cleaning
When your home is damaged by fire, cleaning the structure will focus on getting rid of smoke residues from your home’s structural components and deodorizing odors which are given off by the residues. The adjuster and restorer will consult and advise you on which components can be cleaned and which ones will need to be replaced. All personal contents are not always salvageable after a robust fire damaging event.

Contents Cleaning
Your personal property has to be cleared from the smoke residues. In some situations with fire, your things can be cleaned right on site. Sometimes, however, contents will have to be packed up and moved to a different location for cleaning and storage. These situations happen if your home is not secure or if it is too damaged for on-site cleaning to be done.

Specialty Restoration
Content restorers from SERVPRO will at times subcontract specialty cleaning companies for particular contents such as dry cleaning of clothing, cleaning of electronics, refinishing furniture, and restoring expensive artwork.

Reconstruction Services
In some cases, structural components can be damaged so much that they can’t be restored to a preloss condition. Reconstructing and repairing fire-damaged structural components could need different skills than standard home remodeling. A fire damage restoration company like SERVPRO usually performs cleaning services while licensed general contractors perform highly extensive reconstruction services. SERVPRO can clear away the debris, eliminate odors as well as clean and wipe away soot "Like it never even happened."

Fire damage of any kind needs a professional touch. Call us at SERVPRO of Statesboro. when you have experienced a fire. We are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week at (912) 764-9542.

Understanding SERVPRO'S Water Lingo For Contamination

8/24/2021 (Permalink)

Water from sewer system backups should be considered very dangerous. The water is grossly unsanitary and may contain bacteria and viruses that could cause serious illness. Special training and equipment are necessary to safely clean this type of contamination. SERVPRO of Statesboro has the proper training and equipment to help with biohazard situations.

There are three major types of contaminated water.

Category 1: “Clean Water”

This is water from a clean source, such as a broken clean water supply line or faucet. If left untreated, category 1 water can quickly degrade into category 2 or 3 water depending upon such factors as time, temperature, and contact with contaminants.

Category 2: “Gray Water”

This water has a significant level of contamination that could cause discomfort or illness if ingested. Sources for category 2 water may include washing machine overflow, toilet overflow, (with some urine, but no feces), or dishwasher overflow.

Category 3: “Black Water”

This water is grossly unsanitary and could cause severe illness or death if ingested, and any contact should be avoided. Sources for category 3 water could include flooding from rivers or streams, water from beyond the toilet trap, water from the toilet bowl with feces, or standing water that has begun to support microbial growth.

SERVPRO of Statesboro will inspect the contaminated water to determine the type of water and then plan the appropriate response to safely restore your home or business.

Storm Ready Kit

8/21/2021 (Permalink)

You can never be too prepared!

It feels as if we are constantly prepping for a storm - whether that is a hurricane, thunderstorm, or even the rare winter storm that passes through the southern part of Georgia.

Our team at SERVPRO headquarters (HQ) has put together a list of basic household items you may want to keep in stock and store in a weather proof, safe place in case you find yourself in an emergency storm situation. We encourage checking on your items every 3 months to ensure they are in working order and haven't passed the expiration date.

 Suggested items:

• Water- one gallon per person for at least three days.
• Food- at least a three day supply of non-perishable food.
• Battery powered or hand crank radio
• Flashlight.
• Extra batteries.
• Candles.
• Phone chargers.
• Road flares.
• Rain ponchos.
• Tarp.
• Wet wipes.
• A whistle to signal for help.

When you get caught in a storm, damage to your home is likely. It could be from a limb on your tree or rain leaking through a window. If you see any damage to your home due to a storm, call SERVPRO of Statesboro at (912) 764-9542 so we can help you through the mitigation process. 

How to Prepare for a Hurricane

8/21/2021 (Permalink)

We are always ready to help!

As the weather begins to improve, hurricane season always sneaks up on our area. SERVPRO of Statesboro is part of the Disaster Response Team with SERVPRO. We know how difficult it can be when a storm hits. Because of this, we always want to have the best and most current tips on hurricane preparedness. Here are a few hurricane preparation tips for homeowners. 

1. When a storm is approaching, always keep your eye close on the weather channel. As we have seen the past few years, the hurricane can change its path constantly. 

2. If a hurricane is coming your way, go through your belongings and find the important paperwork for your house and vehicles to keep with you in the event of an evacuation. 

3. If you experience back water flooding it is important to remember the water is contaminated. Make sure to decontaminate any items that may have come in contact with the water.

4. Do not drive in rising water. Wait until water recedes to go into your home.

5. Take pictures, plenty of pictures. It is important to remember to include time stamps to show insurance companies when image was taken. 

If a hurricane damages your home, we will be there to help with the aftermath. If you have any questions or concerns about hurricane damage, please call our Statesboro SERVPRO office at (912) 764-9542. 

Thunderstorm Preparedness

8/21/2021 (Permalink)

Be Prepared for Thunderstorms and Severe Weather

• Learn about your local community’s emergency warning system for severe thunderstorms
• Discuss thunderstorm safety and lightning safety with all members of your household
• Pick a safe place in your home for household members to gather during a thunderstorm This should be away from windows, skylights and glass doors that could be broken by strong winds or hail
• Make a list of items to bring inside in the event of a severe thunderstorm
• Make trees and shrubbery more wind resistant by keeping them trimmed and removing damaged branches
• Protect your animals by ensuring that any outside buildings that house them are protected in the same way as your home
• Consult your local fire department if you are considering installing lightning rods
• Get trained in first aid and learn how to respond to emergencies
• Put together an emergency preparedness kit:
• Water—one gallon per person, per day
• Food—non-perishable, easy-to-prepare
• Flashlight
• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio (NOAA Weather Radio, if possible)
• Extra batteries
• First aid kit
• Medications (7-day supply) and medical items
• Multi-purpose tool
• Sanitation & personal hygiene items
• Copies of personal documents
• Cell phone with chargers
• Family & emergency contact information
• Extra cash

Water Damage Control

8/21/2021 (Permalink)

If you've experienced a water loss emergency SERVPRO of Statesboro has a team ready to help around the clock.

When homeowners find themselves faced with water damage from a sewage backup or bursting pipes, they often want to know how long the restoration efforts will take. The answer depends on the extent of the damage, the type of water to invade the home and materials used throughout the affected area. Our SERVPRO water restoration team may tell homeowners to expect the process to take anywhere from two to three days, but to not be surprised if it takes as many as seven or longer. Some factors that affect the time it takes to dry out a home include: 

• The type of water to flood the home 
• The size of the area affected 
• The building materials affected

Type of Water

Clean water is easier to clean up than black water, as the former doesn’t require special Hazmat materials or equipment. If your problems stem from bursting pipes, the solution may be as simple as fixing the pipes and drying out the area. If you do so within 24 to 48 hours, you can reduce the likelihood of mold and bacteria growth as well. 

Size of Affected Area

The type of water isn’t the only factor to affect restoration times. The size of area plays a huge part as well. If the size of the affected area is relatively small, less than ten square feet, restoration efforts can take as little as two days, and you may even be able to perform them yourself. However, if your entire ground floor is flooded, it could take several days of professional efforts. 

Materials Impacted

If it is just your carpet that is affected, restoration efforts shouldn’t require much of your time at all. However, if your drywall, insulation and/or framing are impacted, you may need to do more than fix a broken pipe. Restoration efforts in the latter instance could take as long as 7 days or more. 

Every situation is different, and the water damage caused by bursting pipes could be far more severe than damage from, say, a leaking pipe. Talk to your local SERVPRO water damage restoration team to learn more about what to expect. We are always here to help! 

We Are The Cleaning Experts

8/21/2021 (Permalink)

We can help you be proactive against viral pathogens in your home or office.

SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need

During this unprecedented time caused by the global pandemic of coronavirus, this is a reminder to our customers that we are specialists in cleaning services, and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards.

Specialized Training

We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform on a daily basis.

The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets and tables. Other spaces mentioned in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces include:

• Kitchen/Food Areas
• Bathrooms
• Schools/Classrooms
• Offices
• Retail Spaces
• Water Fountains
• Shelving/Racks
• Sales Counters
• Carpets and Rugs
• Stair Handrails
• Elevator Cars
• Playground Equipment
• Fitness Equipment

Specialized Products

The CDC recommends usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar pathogens to the coronavirus. SERVPRO of Statesboro uses an EPA-approved product to clean and disinfect viral pathogens, and we are following all guidelines as provided by the CDC and local authorities.

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning

If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of Statesboro- 912.764.9542.

SERVPRO Uses Different Methods for Fire Damage Restoration

8/21/2021 (Permalink)

After a fire, there are two questions that homeowners ask themselves. "How am I ever going to replace everything?" and "How am I going to pay for everything?" quickly threaten to overwhelm a person who is already stressed out from the fire itself.

There is a way to save hundreds, even thousands of dollars for you and/or your insurance company. Restoring fire damage to property is usually much less expensive than replacing it. SERVPRO has a wide variety of methods that can help you accomplish this.

Dry Cleaning - We use dry sponges, dusting cloths and vacuums to remove non-grease based soils and soot. This method is also useful to remove light (small) debris and particulate soiling.

Wet Cleaning - Water and/or cleaning agents are used to remove moderate to heavy residues, both grease and non-grease based. It is a more aggressive method of cleaning since the item being cleaned will be thoroughly saturated in the process.

Spray and Wipe - A wet cleaning agent is applied using a spray bottle and the wiped down with a clean, white towel. This method gives the technician more control over the amount of product used. It is a very effective method to use when there is a concern that the property being cleaned might be damaged if it is saturated with a cleaning product or even water.

Foam Cleaning - This technique is used primarily for upholstery fabrics that could shrink or bleed color if water or a wet cleaning agent is used. The foaming cleaning agents we use are also very effective on mattresses and box springs that have light smoke damage.

Abrasive Cleaning - This technique is used to agitate the surface being cleaned. This is necessary if the residue is very thick and resists wet cleaning. We accomplish this using cleaning agents with abrasive ingredients alone or with an abrasive scrubbing pad.

Immersion Cleaning - This technique is used only for materials that can be completely saturated in a cleaning product. It is very effective for cleaning Venetian blinds. One type of immersion we use in ultrasonic. The item to be cleaned is dipped in a tank with a mix of water and cleaning agent then sound waves are used to create microscopic jet streams that agitate and clean the item.

Restoring property can save a lot of money. For many homeowners, though, the money is not the primary concern. It is the opportunity to preserve an item that holds important memories and perhaps has been in the family for generations.

SERVPRO of Statesboro is ready to assist you with both. Call us today at (912) 764.9542 to start preserving your life and memories.

Avoiding Toilet Overflow at the Office

8/20/2021 (Permalink)

If you experience a disastrous toilet overflow, we can help you with the clean up!

While many people will take care not to clog their own toilets at home and to never flush down harmful objects, not everyone is so cautious when using a public restroom. This can become very stressful for business owners who must constantly address a clogged toilet and call for sewage cleanup and restoration services. Here are some tips for encouraging customers and employees using your bathrooms to avoid a toilet overflow.

Place Trash Cans Near Every Toilet

Baby wipes and feminine hygiene products are common culprits of toilet clogs. While you can’t force customers to properly dispose of these items, you can make it as easy as possible for them to rid of them by making sure there are trash cans in every stall. It is also a good idea to place a trash can near every baby changing station as well.

Signage on the Walls

Post friendly reminders letting people know what should be disposed of in a trash bin rather than down the toilet.

Address Plumbing Issues Immediately

Common plumbing issues, such as a slow drain, can lead to a clogged toilet if not addressed. Perform regular maintenance on your toilets and repair plumbing problems immediately.

Replace Paper Towel Dispensers

Paper towels can back up a toilet if flushed. Consider replacing all paper towel dispensers with air blowers to avoid this problem.

Regularly Check Bathrooms

To avoid sewage overflow, regularly have employees check bathrooms to check for any clogs. This is also a good time to empty out trash cans and replace toilet paper as well.

While every business owner will need to deal with a clogged toilet at least once in their career, these tips can help make this unsanitary situation happen less frequently. If a clog does occur, make sure to get professional help to properly sanitize the area.

What to do if there is a Sewage Spill in the Office

Call SERVPRO of Statesboro!  We are ready to help you 24 hours a day in these types of emergency situations.  It is important to clean properly to avoid secondary issues.  

What Should I Do Immediately after A Water Loss at My Business?

8/20/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is always on call for you!

A broken pipe can transport water, bacteria, mold and debris into your property. Apart from the bad smell, the damage can be serious enough for you to throw away important documents or equipment.

While a pipe burst cleanup should always be completed by a company (such as SERVPRO of Statesboro) who is specially trained to deal with grossly contaminated category 3 losses; this would include but not limited to sewage, flood, water and etc.

There are immediate steps you can take to save your items and keep your environment safe. 

1. Unplug Electronic Appliances

Entering a wet room that has appliances plugged into outlets can be dangerous. Getting your electronic devices out of a water damaged room as soon as possible can prevent them from short circuiting and keep the cleaning crew safe. Take care while transporting your items; don't yank the cord out of the outlet too fast, or it might spark. 

2. Use Disinfectant

A pipe burst can cause bacteria to build-up. To thoroughly disinfect your items, avoid simply drying them with a rag or towel. Instead, use a quality disinfectant cleaner on any hard surfaces such as furniture. You don't need to search far and wide for a good cleaning product; local grocery stores typically carry several reputable brands. 

3. Consult with the Professionals

If the situation is unfortunate enough so that important items like paintings, books or photographs are damaged, you shouldn't immediately throw them away. There are professional cleaners in our area that specialize in restoring such items. Call them right away to see if you can do anything to salvage your items. Sometimes, they might recommend rinsing them with water to prevent stains from setting. 

A company who is specially trained to deal with grossly contaminated category 3 losses; this would include but is not limited to sewage, flood, water and etc can usually send professionals to your home or business promptly for an emergency pipe burst cleanup. However, if you have to wait, taking these steps on your own can help minimize some of the damage. You don't have to spend a lot of money replacing your items if you get them away from a broken pipe and leaking water as soon as possible. 

Also check out our Emergency Ready Plan option for business owners. It will only benefit you in a disaster such as a pipe burst! 

Fire Prevention & Protection For Your Business

8/20/2021 (Permalink)

Follow our tips to help protect your business from fires.

The Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) offers simple steps you can follow to protect your employees and your business.

To help your small business stay fire-free, here are 14 considerations to promote fire protection and prevention. The fire safety checklist in Osha's Small Business handbook recommends you ask yourself:

• Is your local fire department familiar with your facility, its location and specific hazards?
• If you have a fire alarm system, is it certified as required and tested annually?
• If you have interior standpipes and valves, are they inspected regularly?
• If you have outside private fire hydrants, are they flushed at least once a year and on a routine preventive maintenance schedule?
• Are fire doors and shutters in good operating condition?
• Are fire doors and shutters unobstructed and protected against obstructions, including their counterweights?
• Are fire door and shutter fusible links in place?
• Are automatic sprinkler system water control valves, air and water pressure checked periodically as required?
• Is the maintenance of automatic sprinkler systems assigned to responsible persons or to a sprinkler contractor?
• Are sprinkler heads protected by metal guards if exposed to potential physical damage?
• Is proper clearance maintained below sprinkler heads?
• Are portable fire extinguishers provided in adequate number and type and mounted in readily accessible locations?
• Are fire extinguishers recharged regularly with this noted on the inspection tag?
• Are employees periodically instructed in the use of fire extinguishers and fire protection procedures?

If you answered “no” to any of the questions, your small business could be at risk. To cultivate a safer workspace, we recommend you:

1. Have working fire extinguishers. And, make sure employees know how to work them. Portable fire extinguishers should be kept on every floor in easily accessible locations.
2. Have a functioning sprinkler system. Once it’s in place, follow the recommended maintenance schedule to ensure your sprinklers will work properly. Just determine who’s responsible (whether it’s an employee or contractor) and ensure they’re checking it on a regular basis. You’ll also want to protect all sprinkler heads with metal guards and give them plenty of clearance. After all, if they are obscured, they might not make a difference.
3. Train your employees. Does your team know what to do in the event of a fire? If you have an evacuation plan and/or emergency protocol, be sure to educate them about it.

10 Ways To Avoid A Kitchen Fire

8/20/2021 (Permalink)

Stay safe in the kitchen!

Did you know that the majority of house fires begin in the kitchen and the most common cause is cooking?

The American Red Cross has steps everyone can follow to avoid a cooking fire:

1. Never leave cooking food unattended – stay in the kitchen when frying, grilling or broiling food. If you have to leave the kitchen, even for a second, turn off the stove.
2. Check your food regularly while cooking and remain in the home while cooking.
3. Use a timer so you’ll remember that the stove or oven is on.
4. Don’t wear loose clothing or dangling sleeves while cooking.
5. Keep the kids away from the cooking area. Enforce a “kid-free zone” and make them stay at least three feet away from the stove.
6. Keep anything that can catch fire - pot holders, oven mitts, wooden utensils, paper or plastic bags, food packaging, and towels or curtains—away from your stove, oven or any other appliance in the kitchen that generates heat.
7. Clean cooking surfaces on a regular basis to prevent grease buildup.
8. Consider purchasing a fire extinguisher to keep in your kitchen. Contact your local fire department to take training on the proper use of extinguishers.
9. Always check the kitchen before going to bed or leaving the home to make sure all stoves, ovens, and small appliances are turned off.
10. Install a smoke alarm near your kitchen, on each level of your home, near sleeping areas, and inside and outside bedrooms if you sleep with doors closed. Use the test button to check it each month. Replace all batteries at least once a year.

Grilling Tips

8/20/2021 (Permalink)

Although the end of summer is coming up quickly, we still have lots of time to grill in South Georgia 

SERVPRO of Statesboro would like to share some helpful grilling tips to prevent any fires from occurring while you're enjoying that quality time with family and friends.

Do:

1. Keep your grill at least 10 feet away from your home.

2. Clean your grill regularly.

3. Make sure to check for gas leaks.

4. Keep decorations away from the grill.

5. Keep a spray bottle of water handy.

6. Keep a fire extinguisher within a couple of steps of your grill.

DON'T:

1. Turn on the gas while your grill lid is closed.

2. Leave a grill unattended.

3. Overload your grill with food.

4. Use a grill indoors

Statesboro Area Residents: We Specialize in Flooded Basement Cleanup and Restoration!

8/17/2021 (Permalink)

This flooded basement was caused by a recent storm.

A basement can flood at any time, although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall. Basements are inherently prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of a building and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level. There are a number of reasons why your Statesboro Area basement could flood, including: 

• A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe
• Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home
• Storm sewer backup
• Sanitary sewer backup
• Foundation drainage failure
• Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure
• And many more

Have Questions about Basement Flooding?

Call Today - (912) 764-9542

If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can jeopardize your health and safety, and cause severe damage to your home’s structure. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.

The bottom line: a flooded basement can jeopardize your health, safety, and your home’s integrity. It’s worth making a call to SERVPRO of Statesboro and let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. We have earned the trust of hundreds of homeowners, business owners, and property professionals.

We are Flooded Basement Specialists:

• We are Available 24 hours/7 days per week
• We’re a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies
• We Bill The Insurance Directly – One Less Thing For You To Worry About
• Our Technicians are Highly-Trained  in Water Restoration Techniques
• We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards
• Advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment

Basement Flooded? Call Us Today – We’re Ready To Help (912) 764-9542

Conditions In the Statesboro Area Might Be Right For Mold

8/17/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO knows what to do if Mold grows in your home.

It’s estimated that more than 1 million types of mold exist, yet less than 10 percent have actually been named. This means mold is very common in both indoor and outdoor environments. While mold and humans can sometimes co-exist without issue, there are certain species of mold that can cause health effects for some people.

If the right conditions exist, mold will grow.  Those conditions include:

• Water - Different mold types require varying amounts of liquid before growth begins.   
• Temperature - Normal indoor temperatures will promote mold growth.
• Time - Initial mold colonizers can take hold within one day after being exposed to an adequate water supply.

Mold growth can occur in any home, so it’s important to keep an eye out for situations that might promote mold activity. Roof/chimney leaks, wet basements, or condensation from ducts that dampen surrounding insulation are just a few examples of issues that make a house a prime target for mold growth.

If you suspect mold in your home, call SERVPRO of Statesboro to assess the situation. We have the knowledge, tools and track record to effectively remediate mold in your home or business.

If you suspect mold, call us today at (912) 764-9542

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact SERVPRO of Statesboro for mold remediation services.

When Storms or Floods hit the Statesboro area, SERVPRO is ready!

8/17/2021 (Permalink)

Our highly trained crews are ready to respond 24/7 to storm or flood damage in the Statesboro Area.

SERVPRO of Statesboro 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 Statesboro 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 (912) 764-9542

Statesboro Area Smoke and Soot Cleanup

8/17/2021 (Permalink)

Smoke and Soot Damage Can Cause a Pervasive Odor in Your Statesboro Area Home.

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Statesboro will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – (912) 764-9542

Restoring Your Statesboro Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event

8/17/2021 (Permalink)

Commercial Water Damage Events Present Unique Challenges

Flooding and water damage events at Statesboro Area commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

About SERVPRO of Statesboro

SERVPRO of Statesboro specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

SERVPRO of Statesboro Certifications:

• AMRT - Applied Microbial Remediation Technician
• ASD - Applied Structural Drying Technician
• CCT - Carpet Cleaning Technician
• CRT - Color Repair Technician
• ECTP - Employee Certification Training Program
• FSRT - Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician
• HST - Health and safety Technician
• OCT - Odor Control Technician
• OSHA - 10-hour General and/or Construction Industry Training Program
• OSHA - 30-hour General and/or Construction Industry Training Program
• RRRP - Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation
• RRT - Carpet Repair & Reinstallation Technician
• SMT - Stone, Masonry and Ceramic Tile Cleaning Technician
• UFT - Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning Technician
• WRT - Water Damage Restoration Technician

 

For Immediate Service in the Statesboro Area, Call SERVPRO

8/17/2021 (Permalink)

Statesboro Area Residents: We provide immediate service day or night!

SERVPRO of Statesboro provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster in the Statesboro Area. We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

• 24-Hour Emergency Service
• Faster to Any-Sized Disaster
• Highly Trained Restoration Technicians
• A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry
• Locally Owned and Operated
• Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment 

Have Questions? Call Us 24/7 – (912) 764-9542

Residential Services

Whether your Statesboro Area home needs emergency flood damage or your upholstery cleaned, you can depend on us.  Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and can make your property look its best. Learn more about our residential services:

• Water Damage Restoration
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Mold Remediation
• Storm Damage Restoration
• Cleaning Services
• Building/Reconstruction Services

Commercial Services

There's never a convenient time for fire or Water damage to strike your Statesboro area commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business. 

Does Your Statesboro Area Home Have a Mold Problem?

8/9/2021 (Permalink)

Mold can spread through a home in as little as 48 hours!

Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:

• Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
• Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.
• Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce health effects.
• Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
• Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
• Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – SERVPRO of Statesboro- 912-764-9542

SERVPRO of Statesboro 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

8/6/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Statesboro provides 24 hour fire and water damage restoration service in Bulloch, Emanuel, Screven, Jenkins and Candler counties.

SERVPRO of Statesboro is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today - 912-764-9542

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Statesboro has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

• Your name and contact information
• Your insurance information (if applicable)
• The street address of the water-damaged home or business
• When did the flooding or water damage occur?
• What caused the water damage (if known)?
• Is there electricity available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO of Statesboro

SERVPRO of Statesboro specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Faster to your Statesboro Area Water Damage Event

8/6/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Statesboro provides 24 hour fire and water damage restoration service in the Statesboro Area

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we.  SERVPRO of Statesboro provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays.

Faster To Any Size Disaster

Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more.  SERVPRO of Statesboro arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 912-764-9542

Water Damage Timeline

Within Minutes

• Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
• Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
• Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
• Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.

Hours 1 - 24:

• Drywall begins to swell and break down.
• Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
• Furniture begins to swell and crack.
• Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
• A musty odor appears.

48 Hours to 1 Week:

• Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
• Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
• Metal begins to rust and corrode.
• Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
• Paint begins to blister.
• Wood flooring swells and warps.
• Serious biohazard contamination is possible.

More Than 1 Week:

• Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
• Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.

About SERVPRO of Statesboro

SERVPRO of Statesboro specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Make sure your fire risk is low during the holidays. If you experience any damage, SERVPRO of Statesboro will be here to help.

11/23/2020 (Permalink)

Keep House Fires Out of Your Winter Celebrations | SERVPRO® of Statesboro

Though fire safety is an important focus at any time of year, as the chill of winter sets in, it is an even more pressing concern. The Red Cross has found that winter is when the most fires occur in the home, which is understandable given that many winter and holiday activities provide an ideal environment for house fires to start.

At any time of the year, cooking is the leading cause of household fires, and winter is no exception with more people trying new recipes and baking projects. In addition to this, heating and electrical fires become more of a concern with the use of heaters and decorations, so it is important to be aware of the risks and ideal prevention methods.

Preventing Fires Around the Winter Holidays

Keep safe when cooking. Cooking large meals or undertaking new baking experiments is a popular winter pastime, meaning that the chances for any type of cooking fire will increase accordingly. When cooking, it is important to never leave flammable objects near the stove, oven or slow cooker, and to never leave heating food unattended. It is also wise to keep a fire extinguisher on-hand in case any flare-ups do occur, so they can be addressed quickly.

Heat the house with proper precautions. As the winter chill sets in, reaching for space heaters or putting a fire in the fireplace is common, and can be done safely. It is important to note that space heaters should always be equipped with proper safety features and that fireplaces should never be left unattended, as these are some of the leading causes of winter fires. If you do have a fireplace, be sure your chimney is inspected every year to address any potential hazards.

Decorate with care. Most of us can appreciate fun, holiday decorations, but issues can develop with these electrical components that can be hazardous. Christmas tree fires are often caused by lights, mainly due to fraying of the wires or the overloading of outlets. Always check your strands of lights before using them, and never leave them plugged in when you will not be home or when you are going to bed.

If you have damage due to a house fire, you can depend on us to help. Contact us 24 hours a day to report damage and receive a quick response from our certified restoration technicians. Get in touch today.

We mean business

4/17/2020 (Permalink)

When it comes to your commercial property, we mean business. You need a company that can minimize the disruption to your clients while delivering superior results. Whether you need professional cleaning to make your business shine, or emergency water restoration services, SERVPRO of Statesboro has the training and expertise to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

Listed below are different services that we can offer. If you have any questions, please give us a call!

• Small Office Buildings
• Large Office/High-Rise Office Buildings
• Apartment Buildings
• Restaurants
• Hotel/Motels
• Small Retail Stores
• Large Retail/Big-Box Stores
• High-Rise Residential
• Manufacturing & Industrial
• Government/Military

If you need these services, please call SERVPRO of Stateboro at 912.764.9542. We are always there to help! 

Be prepared for thunderstorms and severe weather

4/16/2020 (Permalink)

Follow our tips to be prepared for any type of weather conditions.

Be Prepared for Thunderstorms and Severe Weather

• Learn about your local community’s emergency warning system for severe thunderstorms
• Discuss thunderstorm safety and lightning safety with all members of your household
• Pick a safe place in your home for household members to gather during a thunderstorm This should be away from windows, skylights and glass doors that could be broken by strong winds or hail
• Make a list of items to bring inside in the event of a severe thunderstorm
• Make trees and shrubbery more wind resistant by keeping them trimmed and removing damaged branches
• Protect your animals by ensuring that any outside buildings that house them are protected in the same way as your home
• Consult your local fire department if you are considering installing lightning rods
• Get trained in first aidand learn how to respond to emergencies
• Put together an emergency preparedness kit:
• Water—one gallon per person, per day
• Food—non-perishable, easy-to-prepare
• Flashlight
• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio (NOAA Weather Radio, if possible)
• Extra batteries
• First aid kit
• Medications (7-day supply) and medical items
• Multi-purpose tool
• Sanitation & personal hygiene items
• Copies of personal documents
• Cell phone with chargers
• Family & emergency contact information
• Extra cash

Foundation problems due to water

4/16/2020 (Permalink)

Do you think you have water damaging your foundation? Lucky for us you are a hands-on homeowner, who fixes and repairs things as needed. The problem is that water damage to foundations is not an easy water damaging problem to identify.

The key to minimizing the damage is to catch it fast and address the issue. But how? Below is a list of the some of the common symptoms of water damage within a house foundation.

A. Overly Damp Soil

If you have an idea that there could be an issue with moisture, take a look at the soil around the foundations of the property. If it is unusually wet without any recent rain, there is a good chance that groundwater is seeping into the foundation.

B. Water in the Crawlspace
Standing water and moisture building up within a crawlspace is a pretty good sign that something is wrong with the foundation, circulation of air, lack of adequate insulation, or a broken pipe. If it is too damp in this area, the quality of the air in your house can decrease, and it may give off a musty odor.

C. Mal-functioning doorframes or windows
This might sound like a surprising sign, but if your doorframes used to open and close correctly, but have recently started to stick, the problem could be moisture related. It may be a sign that the doorframes have begun to warp, from excessive water absorption.

If you notice one or all three of the issues, you may have a problem on your hands. SERVPRO of Statesboro is here to help! 

Time to check those batteries!

4/16/2020 (Permalink)

Maintaining your smoke detectors is how you'll be able to keep your family and home safe.

Spring is here and with everything going on in the world today a lot of us have forgotten a very important thing to check...our smoke detectors. 

The U.S Fire Administration (USFA) states that smoke detectors should be checked monthly to ensure there are no malfunctions and that the batteries should be changed at least once or twice a year. Most people have found it easy to remember to do this when daylight savings time occurs. While you’re changing your clocks, go ahead and change your batteries in your smoke detectors. 

Make sure you check your smoke detectors users manual and if any of the following apply, then you may need to check your smoke detectors more often:

• The detector gives a false alarm
• The alarm emits a short beeps regularly without anyone touching it
• Frequent kitchen smoke has caused it to activate often, which may cause the batteries to deplete quicker

There are two types of smoke detectors:

1. Battery-Powered- This type can be susceptible to defective or worn-out batteries. Doing monthly testing is critical to ensure that the detector is working properly.
2. Hardwired- This type is powered by your home’s electrical system, but are known to have backup batteries so the device can remain operational in a power outage. This type still requires a monthly test to help ensure that both the batteries and parts are working properly.

If your home isn’t equipped with smoke detectors, then please make sure you visit your local fire department. The fire departments in each community have access to fire safety equipment like smoke detectors and would be glad to make sure your family is safe.

Has your business had a positive case?

4/16/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Statesboro is trained to adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitization standards.

SERVPRO of Statesboro has access to an EPA approved cleaner, which we are able to use as a preventative measure to disinfect and sanitize for the current pandemic.

We are strictly following CDC regulations and staying educated and up to date regarding their processes and requirements. 

The novel coronavirus (COVID-19) can easily be spread from person to person. Having your work place sanitized as a preventative measure can be an effective way of being proactive in preventing the spread of possible contamination.

To reduce the risk of infection and the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) please have your employees follow these simple steps:

1. Wash your hands often and thoroughly
2. Be diligent in cleaning
3. Avoid touching your nose, mouth, and face
4. Avoid close contact with people. Keep all interactions at least 6-feet apart and avoid handshakes

SERVPRO of Statesboro is here to help you and your business during this pandemic. Please don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions or concerns you may have.

Understanding SERVPRO's water lingo for contamination

4/16/2020 (Permalink)

Water from sewer system backups should be considered very dangerous. The water is grossly unsanitary and may contain bacteria and viruses that could cause serious illness. Special training and equipment is necessary to safely clean this type of contamination. SERVPRO of Statesboro has the proper training and equipment to help with biohazard situations.

There are three major types of contaminated water.

Category 1: “Clean Water”

This is water from a clean source, such as a broken clean water supply line or faucet. If left untreated, category 1 water can quickly degrade into category 2 or 3 water depending upon such factors as time, temperature and contact with contaminants.

Category 2: “Gray Water”

This water has a significant level of contamination that could cause discomfort or illness if ingested. Sources for category 2 water may include washing machine overflow; toilet overflow with some urine, but no feces; or dishwasher overflow.

Category 3: “Black Water”

This water is grossly unsanitary and could cause severe illness or death if ingested, and any contact should be avoided. Sources for category 3 water could include flooding from rivers or streams, water from beyond the toilet trap, water from the toilet bowl with feces or standing water that has begun to support microbial growth.

SERVPRO of Statesboro will inspect the contaminated water to determine the type of water and then plan the appropriate response to safely restore your home or business.

Ready to sell? Old tenants moving out? Let us help you get your home ready.

4/16/2020 (Permalink)

Whether you are trying to sell your home or you have renters moving out or even after a water loss in your home, getting your house ready for new people can be very exhausting.

When it comes to selling your home, it can be extremely overwhelming working with realtors, inspections, and potential buyers.

Lucky for you, SERVPRO of Statesboro is happy to clean your house and get it ready for showings and the sale. With our highly trained crews, we are prepared to help with any cleaning task ranging from mold remediation to deodorization to general cleaning services including carpet cleanings. We have helped many homeowners prepare and sell their homes with a top to bottom cleaning. We have also helped a lot of apartment complexes clean after the lease ends and a new one is beginning. 

Our thorough cleaning services can include wiping ceilings and walls, trim, the exterior of baseboard registers, and cleaning the inside and outside of kitchen and bathroom appliances. Window cleaning and floor cleaning are a great way to finish the project up and add the final sparkle to your fresh home.

We would be happy to set up a time for an estimator to come onsite to answer any questions you may have, and to get you a good idea of what the project would entail and cost. SERVPRO of Statesboro is always here to help.

Important Storm Tips for Spring & Summer

4/15/2020 (Permalink)

Each year, thunderstorms alone cause approximately $15 billion in property damage. Summer and spring seasons are the most vulnerable to these destructive and frightening storms.

There are several ways to prepare your property for the summer.

1. Always have an emergency kit with these items that you probably already have in your house: flashlight, battery powered weather radio, extra batteries to fit each electronic, non-perishable foods, lots of bottled water, can opener, first aid kit, fire extinguisher, blankets, extra clothes, sturdy shoes or boots, clock or watch, whistle to signal for help, and any important personal items and documents.

2. Know the safest structure of your home to go to during a severe storm such as a basement, underground cellar, or even the most inner part of your home away from windows.

3. Get routine maintenance on your roof and the foundation. Cracks in the roof are the number one leading cause to flooding damage.

4. Cut down any unwanted trees or limbs and get your trees trimmed before summer storm season. Trees and branches can fall on your property and damage the siding, windows, and roof.

5. Contact your insurance company to be more familiar with your policy. Most home insurers do not cover flooding damage.

6. Keep all expensive and favored possessions off the floor and away from low ground in case of flooding.

7. Invest in storm windows.

8. Keep all patio furniture, grills, etc in doors before a summer storm hits. Do not forget to part your vehicles in the garage.

9. If your town is evacuating due to a hurricane, secure and board up windows and any openings of your home. 

10. Finally, take those summer storm warnings and alerts seriously, especially tornado and hurricane warnings. Tornadoes and hurricanes can lead to total property loss and even death.

Kitchen Fire

4/15/2020 (Permalink)

Kitchen catches fire damaging entire home.

We received a phone call from a customer in regards to their kitchen catching fire and damaging the entire house. Soot and smoke touched every inch of the house. So how do we clean the soot from walls and contents? 

One would think that we should be using water to wash away the soot. One would be wrong. Soot should not be cleaned up with water first. The water on a sponge or rag would just move the soot around on the material. Soot should initially be removed with dry sponges.

Dry soot cleaning sponges are used to remove soot and dirt where you don’t want the surface to get wet. It is made of a natural rubber and is used like an eraser. Once the surface of the sponge is dirty it has to be discarded. The sponges hold a remarkable amount of soot in the pours of the sponge.

After wiping the fine particles of soot off the surface the surface can be wet washed. This process needs to be done by a professional. If not done properly surface damage can occur.

There is a science to fire cleaning and you should trust and hire a professional if you have fire clean up that needs to occur.

This is why we love having IICRC certified technicians on our team! We work hard and have trained professionals ready to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Grilling Tips

4/15/2020 (Permalink)

Time to pull out those grills!

Spring has arrived and summer is upon us, which means it's time to pull out those grills.

SERVPRO of Statesboro would like to share some helpful grilling tips to prevent any fires from occurring while you're enjoying that quality time with family and friends.

Do:

1. Keep your grill at least 10 feet away from your home.

2. Clean your grill regularly.

3. Make sure to check for gas leaks.

4. Keep decorations away from the grill.

5. Keep a spray bottle of water handy.

6. Keep a fire extinguisher within a couple of steps of your grill.

DON'T:

1. Turn on the gas while your grill lid is closed.

2. Leave a grill unattended.

3. Overload your grill with food.

4. Use a grill indoors

Water Damage Control

4/15/2020 (Permalink)

When homeowners find themselves faced with water damage from a sewage backup or bursting pipes, they often want to know how long the restoration efforts will take. The answer depends on the extent of the damage, the type of water to invade the home and materials used throughout the affected area. Our SERVPRO water restoration team may tell homeowners to expect the process to take anywhere from two to three days, but to not be surprised if it takes as many as seven or longer. Some factors that affect the time it takes to dry out a home include: 

• The type of water to flood the home 
• The size of the area affected 
• The building materials affected

Type of Water

Clean water is easier to clean up than black water, as the former doesn’t require special Hazmat materials or equipment. If your problems stem from bursting pipes, the solution may be as simple as fixing the pipes and drying out the area. If you do so within 24 to 48 hours, you can reduce the likelihood of mold and bacteria growth as well. 

Size of Affected Area

The type of water isn’t the only factor to affect restoration times. The size of area plays a huge part as well. If the size of the affected area is relatively small, less than ten square feet, restoration efforts can take as little as two days, and you may even be able to perform them yourself. However, if your entire ground floor is flooded, it could take several days of professional efforts. 

Materials Impacted

If it is just your carpet that is affected, restoration efforts shouldn’t require much of your time at all. However, if your drywall, insulation and/or framing are impacted, you may need to do more than fix a broken pipe. Restoration efforts in the latter instance could take as long as 7 days or more. 

Every situation is different, and the water damage caused by bursting pipes could be far more severe than damage from, say, a leaking pipe. Talk to your local SERVPRO water damage restoration team to learn more about what to expect. We are always here to help! 

Water Damage Requires Professional Clean Up Now to Prevent Problems Later

4/15/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage that results from a broken water line, can cause severe damage throughout the home.

Many people clean their homes prior to leaving for vacation. They also make sure that all the lights are off, and then also check that all windows and doors are locked securely. Many otherwise careful people fail to shut off the water line at the outside of their home during their pre-vacation preparations. Many times, nothing comes of this, but when it does, the water damage can be substantial. 

Water damage that results from a broken water line, no matter where the break or leak is located, can cause damage throughout your home. This damage may not only spread across the floor or down the inside of a wall space but from one floor to lower levels, increasing the amount of damage your home experiences. 

Vacationing is Only Temporary and So Should Any Water Damage, if You Call for Professional Assistance 
Upon returning from vacation, homeowners whose home has been water damaged while they've been away are in for a not-so-pleasant surprise. Shutting off the water should be the first thing done if it can be safely accomplished. Standing water can pose an electrical hazard if electrical outlets or wiring are immersed in the water. If you are not sure about your safety, you should have professionals complete the shut-down the electricity prior to shutting off the water. Everyone should remain clear of the water to be safe. 

After the flow of water has been stopped, mop up the existing water using absorbent towels or mops and empty buckets. Dump these outside to keep drains inside your home from becoming clogged by any debris that may be in the water. Because water can infiltrate porous materials like drywall throughout your home, it is tough to remove completely. The structurally water damaged area must have the standing water extracted first. If this is not done properly, warping and deterioration of walls and other structures in your home can quickly occur. Then the absorbed moisture and humidity in the interior environment must be mitigated to acceptable levels. If not, this can lead to not only dangerous structural problems but also the growth of mold and mildew. These can cause health effects in your family members over time. 

What We can do For You 
Our professionals are trained in not only the removal of water that can cause damage to your home's interior, but we have training in the IICRC approved drying techniques that are designed for maximum efficiency. After cleaning-up and extracted all of the water, we will begin the drying process and take note of any damage that needs to be restored or repaired. Cleaning-up will continue with removing any debris that is left over from repairs, as well.  

The professionals at SERVPRO of Statesboro are experienced in responding to water damage emergencies such as ruptured or frozen water lines, and we can respond quickly. 

When a Storm Hits

4/15/2020 (Permalink)

Whether it is a Category 5 hurricane or a bad thunderstorm rolling through, home owners should be prepared for any storm.

Take safety precautions

Any type of heavy winds can cause roof shingles, natural debris, or unnatural debris to occur. After the storm is over, take precaution when going outside because there could be debris such as nails, sharp wood, or other potentially dangerous items that are around your home.

Photograph the damage

If it is major or minor, take pictures IMMEDIATELY. You may not realize that something damaged your home until after you have moved it, so take pictures just in case (there is always the delete button). Insurance companies will need to see before pictures of the damage.

Contact your insurance company… and SERVPRO!

A homeowner must call their insurance company so an adjuster can be sent out to examine the damage so payment can be made.. Don’t forget to call your favorite restoration and mediation company, SERVPRO of Statesboro. We work around the clock to ensure happiness from our community! We will send a team out as quickly as possible to begin work for your home if disaster strikes!

Spot VS. Stain

4/15/2020 (Permalink)

After a fire, going through items can be extremely difficult. Part of that process is deciding if something is damaged beyond repair or needs cleaning. Here are a few ways to figure out if your items are stained or just covered in spots.

People often use the terms “spots” and “stains” interchangeably, but they have an important distinction between them. A spot is a visible surface discoloration that results from a soil that you CAN remove. A stain on the other hand, is a visible discoloration resulting from a color that permanently attaches that you CAN’T remove.

A skillful cleaner is sometimes able to turn what appears to be a stain into a spot. But someone with poor cleaning techniques may do the opposite. That’s why acquiring the proper spot cleaning knowledge, education and product that SERVPRO of Statesboro has to offer is crucial to carpet cleaning success. We offer a range of specialized cleaning methods backed by state-of-the-art equipment to insure your carpets or upholstery are spick and span, and spot and stain free.

Be sure to call SERVPRO of Statesboro at 912-764-9542.

SERVPRO and Fire Damage

4/15/2020 (Permalink)

After a fire, there are two questions that homeowners ask themselves. "How am I ever going to replace everything?" and "How am I going to pay for everything?" quickly threaten to overwhelm a person who is already stressed out from the fire itself.

There is a way to save hundreds, even thousands of dollars to you and/or your insurance company. Restoring fire damage to property is usually much cheaper than replacing it. SERVPRO has a wide variety of methods that can help you accomplish this.

Dry Cleaning - We use dry sponges, dusting cloths and vacuums to remove non-grease based soils and soot. This method is also useful to remove light (small) debris and particulate soiling.

Wet Cleaning - Water and/or cleaning agents are used to remove moderate to heavy residues, both grease and non-grease based. It is a more aggressive method of cleaning since the item being cleaned will be thoroughly saturated in the process.

Spray and Wipe - A wet cleaning agent is applied using a spray bottle and the wiped down with a clean, white towel. This method gives the technician more control over the amount of product used. It is a very effective method to use when there is a concern that the property being cleaned might be damaged if it is saturated with a cleaning product or even water.

Foam Cleaning - This technique is used primarily for upholstery fabrics that could shrink or bleed color if water or a wet cleaning agent is used. The foaming cleaning agents we use are also very effective on mattresses and box springs that have light smoke damage.

Abrasive Cleaning - This technique is used to agitate the surface being cleaned. This is necessary if the residue is very thick and resists wet cleaning. We accomplish this using cleaning agents with abrasive ingredients alone or with an abrasive scrubbing pad.

Immersion Cleaning - This technique is used only for materials that can be completely saturated in a cleaning product. It is very effective for cleaning Venetian blinds. One type of immersion we use in ultrasonic. The item to be cleaned is dipped in a tank with a mix of water and cleaning agent then sound waves are used to create microscopic jet streams that agitate and clean the item.

Restoring property can save a lot of money. For many homeowners, though, the money is not the primary concern. It is the opportunity to preserve an item that holds important memories and perhaps has been in the family for generations.

SERVPRO of Statesboro is ready to assist you with both. Call us today at (912) 764.9542 to start preserving your life and memories.

Dryer Fire Preventions & SERVPRO

4/15/2020 (Permalink)

Make sure to empty the lint trap after every load.

Thousands of dryer fires are caused by lint every year, yet they can be easily prevented with a few minutes of cleaning.

Regular maintenance of your dryer will help to improve the drying speed of your clothing, reduce energy usage, and most importantly, reduce the risk of dryer fires! Here are a few ways to get cleaning…

• One of the best precautions is to empty the lint trap after every load. Use of laundry detergent, fabric softener and dryer sheets can lead to an unseen waxy build up or film over your lint trap. Remove any large clumps of lint build-up that are visible. Fill up a bucket or sink with warm water and a little dish soap and gently scrub with a toothbrush until clean. If you run water over the filter, it should be able to pass through easily without any pooling. Ensure that there are no tears in the screen.  
• Pull out the dryer from the wall and unplug the machine. Ideally you will pull the dryer all the way out so that you can vacuum underneath it all. You’ll want to suck up any loose debris and then wash and dry the floor.
• Remove the vent off the back of the dryer. Using a screw driver, remove the vent clamp and slide the vent (dryer duct) off the dryer. Reach into the hole on the back of the dryer, remove any large clumps of lint and then follow with your vacuum attachment reaching as far in as you can. Metal ducts are much less of a fire risk than foil or plastic vents and, if a fire does start, are more likely to contain it.
• Clean the inside drum. Using a rag, wipe down the inside of the dryer with a 50/50 water and vinegar mixture. Dry thoroughly. If you have an automatic drying setting, give the moisture sensor electrodes a cleaning with a cotton ball dipped in rubbing alcohol. Buildup from link or dryer sheets can affect these sensors and leading to either damp or overly dried clothing. These are usually located just inside the dryer below the door opening. Don’t forget to clean the inside of the door too!

For best fire prevention, do a deep cleaning at least annually with regular maintenance to remove any visible lint.

In case of fire, SERVPRO of Statesboro is available 24/7 to come in and make it "Like it never even happened."

3 things to do while you wait for SERVPRO

4/15/2020 (Permalink)

When you realize there is water in your home, what should you do? First you want to stop the water source. If you are unable to do this, immediately call a plumber. You should also call your insurance company so they can lead you through the steps. We have below 3 of the most important tasks you should do while you wait for SERVPRO of Statesboro to reach your house. 

Most importantly your SAFETY. You should make sure you are safe first. That could mean leaving the house completely (even with the water continuing to flow) if it involves an electrical issue. If the water is high enough where you cannot see the floor, it would be a good idea to leave that area. You may not be aware of some dangerous circumstances that are under the water. 

Documentation, documentation, documentation. To help your insurance company and to have your peace of mind, document every damage you can. Make sure you can see the time and date of each picture. If you think you are taking too many pictures, odds are you should keep documenting. If you have furniture or appliances that were affected, take pictures of the serial number if you can find it. A good idea is to also walk through each affected (and not affected) areas and video. This will ensure you are catching everything. 

Remove any item in harms way. You may be able to start the first step of the cleanup process. If it is safe to do so, remove waterlogged items from the flooded area. The more you can move out, the higher chance the items can be restored. 

If you are over your head with a water loss, our IICRC certified technicians will be on site to help with your loss. 

Fire Safety Tips for Children

4/15/2020 (Permalink)

Children, especially younger ones, may not be capable of exiting a home on their own or understanding the dangers of fire hazards. If parents take the extra precautions not only by reducing risks in the home and installing proper safety equipment, but by creating and explaining a comprehensive fire safety plan of action with your family, the chance of risk can be greatly reduced. 

Here are just a few fire safety tips for you and your family to get you started.

• The Stop, Drop and Roll technique – Stop moving, lie down and roll if clothing catches fire.
• Crawl through rooms and hallways to avoid smoke inhalation.
• Touch doors before opening – if the door is hot, don’t open it.
• Never re-enter the building for any reason once safely outside.
• Fire is a tool, not a toy.
• Never pick up matches or lighters if found. Instead, tell an adult right away.
• Never leave children unattended around any fire hazard, including cooking stoves, candles, portable heaters, or any other heat source. Teach toddlers and young kids to stay at least three feet away from any common heat source or hazard in your home.

Did you know, you can contact your local fire department for free fire safety equipment like smoke detectors? Some may even be willing to have your kids stop in for free fire safety tips. Make sure to check your community events, as some fire departments are known to have free fire safety classes for families.

You can also visit the link provided for more tips and activities for children.

http://keepkidsfiresafe.org/kids1.html

Ways We Can Help Your Business

4/15/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Statesboro provides a multitude of different services. We are the leading professionals in restoration and cleaning. We are equipped to handle any job small or disastrous. Below are just some of the services we will gladly provide in your time of need.

Restoration:

• Fire, smoke and soot
• Water removal and dehumidification
• Catastrophic storm response
• Move outs and contents restoration
• Contents claim inventory services

Cleaning

• Air ducts and HVAC
• Carpet, upholstery, drapes, and blinds
• Ceilings, walls and hard floors
• Odor identification
• Deodorization

Whether you need your carpets cleaned during Spring Break or you need help with smoke damage from a terrible electrical fire, we would love to help. SERVPRO of Statesboro can be at your place of business to give a pre-estimate for the work needed. If you have any questions, please give us a call at (912) 764-9542. 

Tornado Watch & Warning- Know the Difference

4/14/2020 (Permalink)

Know the difference between a Tornado Watch & a Tornado Warning.

Multiple tornadoes flew across the CSRA, leaving homes destroyed and losing loved ones. How should one prepare for such a dangerous situation? 

First, you should know the difference in a tornado watch and a tornado warning. Tornado watch means that the conditions are perfect for a tornado to form. Tornado warning means that one has been spotted, and you should take cover fast. 

Secondly, everyone should get to a safe location. This safe location should be on the lowest area of the house or building and free of any windows. If you do not have a room without any windows, get in the tub and put a mattress over you.

Thirdly, if you are outside and cannot get to a building, get to a ditch and lay as flat as possible. If you have a cushion or blanket (anything soft to hold over you) of some sort, try keeping that above you to protect you from flying debris. You should NEVER seek shelter under a bridge as this can be one of the most dangerous places to be during a tornado. The bridge can create a more dangerous tunnel of wind. 

TIP: If you are in a mobile home, find a secure storm shelter or building to wait out the storm in. 

Finally, you should wait as long as possible after you no longer hear the wind noises before you move away from your safe space. You cannot fully know how safe the area is so be extra cautious while leaving your safe are. 

If you find yourself looking at a pile of debris that was once your home, call SERVPRO of Statesboro to help after a storm. 

Emergency Ready Plan- (ERP)

4/14/2020 (Permalink)

Whenever a leak happens in your business, do you trust that the person in the business knows exactly what to do? Do they know where each valve for the water is located? Do they know who can be there to help remove the water? Lucky for you, they don't have to.

With our Emergency Ready Plan, they will just call us, and we know the answers to all of these questions! 

As many as 50% of businesses may never fully recover following a disaster, according to industry research. Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind. By developing a SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water, fire, sewage, and mold damage can affect your business.

Contact SERVPRO of Statesboro 912.764.9542 for a FREE Emergency Ready Profile for your business.

SERVPRO of Statesboro is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year to assist you in the event of a loss! 

Fire Protection & Prevention For Your Business

4/14/2020 (Permalink)

The Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) offers simple steps you can follow to protect your employees and your business.

To help your small business stay fire-free, here are 14 considerations to promote fire protection and prevention. The fire safety checklist in OSHA’s Small Business Handbook recommends you ask yourself:

• Is your local fire department familiar with your facility, its location and specific hazards?
• If you have a fire alarm system, is it certified as required and tested annually?
• If you have interior standpipes and valves, are they inspected regularly?
• If you have outside private fire hydrants, are they flushed at least once a year and on a routine preventive maintenance schedule?
• Are fire doors and shutters in good operating condition?
• Are fire doors and shutters unobstructed and protected against obstructions, including their counterweights?
• Are fire door and shutter fusible links in place?
• Are automatic sprinkler system water control valves, air and water pressure checked periodically as required?
• Is the maintenance of automatic sprinkler systems assigned to responsible persons or to a sprinkler contractor?
• Are sprinkler heads protected by metal guards if exposed to potential physical damage?
• Is proper clearance maintained below sprinkler heads?
• Are portable fire extinguishers provided in adequate number and type and mounted in readily accessible locations?
• Are fire extinguishers recharged regularly with this noted on the inspection tag?
• Are employees periodically instructed in the use of fire extinguishers and fire protection procedures?

If you answered “no” to any of the questions, your small business could be at risk. To cultivate a safer workspace, we recommend you:

1. Have working fire extinguishers. And, make sure employees know how to work them. Portable fire extinguishers should be kept on every floor in easily accessible locations.
2. Have a functioning sprinkler system. Once it’s in place, follow the recommended maintenance schedule to ensure your sprinklers will work properly. Just determine who’s responsible (whether it’s an employee or contractor) and ensure they’re checking it on a regular basis. You’ll also want to protect all sprinkler heads with metal guards and give them plenty of clearance. After all, if they’re obscured, they might not make a difference.
3. Train your employees. Does your team know what to do in the event of a fire? If you have an evacuation plan and/or emergency protocol, be sure to educate them about it.

Common Crime Scene Contaminates

4/12/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Statesboro has completed specialized training to handle crime scene contaminates.

No matter how many forensic TV shows we’ve seen, leaving the crime scene clean-up to the professionals is the best route to take for both your health and safety. After the police have finished processing a crime or accident scene, the cleaning and restoration process can begin. Many times, crime and accident scenes have biohazard contaminants that pose a serious health risk.

One example of a crime scene contaminant is forensic residue. Forensic investigators use a variety of different materials and substances to conduct their investigations, such as fingerprint dust. SERVPRO of Statesboro is responsible for ensuring that these substances do not remain at the site. We also handle bodily fluids. The fluids pose a health risk if they are not handled properly, and witnesses should not attempt to remove them from the crime site. SERVPRO of Statesboro will respond immediately and has the specialized training, protective equipment and experience to safely clean trauma and crime scenes.

Items in Business After Water Loss

4/12/2020 (Permalink)

A broken pipe can transport water, bacteria, mold and debris into your property. Apart from the bad smell, the damage can be serious enough for you to throw away important documents or equipment.

While a pipe burst cleanup should always be completed by a company who is specially trained to deal with grossly contaminated category 3 losses; this would include but not limited to sewage, flood, water and etc.

There are immediate steps you can take to save your items and keep your environment safe. 

1. Unplug Electronic Appliances

Entering a wet room that has appliances plugged into outlets can be dangerous. Getting your electronic devices out of a water damaged room as soon as possible can prevent them from short circuiting and keep the cleaning crew safe. Take care while transporting your items; don't yank the cord out of the outlet too fast, or it might spark. 

2. Use Disinfectant

A pipe burst can cause bacteria to build-up. To thoroughly disinfect your items, avoid simply drying them with a rag or towel. Instead, use a quality disinfectant cleaner on any hard surfaces such as furniture. You don't need to search far and wide for a good cleaning product; local grocery stores typically carry several reputable brands. 

3. Consult with Professionals

If the situation is unfortunate enough so that important items like paintings, books or photographs are damaged, you shouldn't immediately throw them away. There are professional cleaners in our area that specialize in restoring such items. Call them right away to see if you can do anything to salvage your items. Sometimes, they might recommend rinsing them with water to prevent stains from setting. 

A company who is specially trained to deal with grossly contaminated category 3 losses; this would include but is not limited to sewage, flood, water and etc can usually send professionals to your home or business promptly for an emergency pipe burst cleanup. However, if you have to wait, taking these steps on your own can help minimize some of the damage. You don't have to spend a lot of money replacing your items if you get them away from a broken pipe and leaking water as soon as possible. 

Also check out our Emergency Ready Plan option for business owners. It will only benefit you in a disaster such as a pipe burst! 

Avoiding Toilet Overflow

4/12/2020 (Permalink)

Clogged toilet due to excessive amount of toilet paper used.

While many people will take care not to clog their own toilets at home and to never flush down harmful objects, not everyone is so cautious when using a public restroom. This can become very stressful for business owners who must constantly address a clogged toilet and call for sewage cleanup and restoration services. Here are some tips for encouraging customers and employees using your bathrooms to avoid a toilet overflow.

Place Trash Cans Near Every Toilet

Baby wipes and feminine hygiene products are common culprits of toilet clogs. While you can’t force customers to properly dispose of these items, you can make it as easy as possible for them to rid of them by making sure there are trash cans in every stall. It is also a good idea to place a trash can near every baby changing station as well.

Put Up Signs

Post friendly reminders letting people know what should be disposed of in a trash bin rather than down the toilet.

Address Plumbing Issues Immediately

Common plumbing issues, such as a slow drain, can lead to a clogged toilet if not addressed. Perform regular maintenance on your toilets and repair plumbing problems immediately.

Replace Paper Towel Dispensers

Paper towels can back up a toilet if flushed. Consider replacing all paper towel dispensers with air blowers to avoid this problem.

Regularly Check Bathrooms

To avoid sewage overflow, regularly have employees check bathrooms to check for any clogs. This is also a good time to empty out trash cans and replace toilet paper as well.

While every business owner will need to deal with a clogged toilet at least once in their career, these tips can help make this unsanitary situation happen less frequently. If a clog does occur, make sure to get professional help to properly sanitize the area.

How to Avoid a Kitchen Fire- 10 Steps

4/12/2020 (Permalink)

Never leave the stove or oven unattended.

Did you know that the majority of house fires begin in the kitchen and the most common cause is cooking?

The American Red Cross has steps everyone can follow to avoid a cooking fire:

1. Never leave cooking food unattended – stay in the kitchen when frying, grilling or broiling food. If you have to leave the kitchen, even for a second, turn off the stove.
2. Check your food regularly while cooking and remain in the home while cooking.
3. Use a timer so you’ll remember that the stove or oven is on.
4. Don’t wear loose clothing or dangling sleeves while cooking.
5. Keep the kids away from the cooking area. Enforce a “kid-free zone” and make them stay at least three feet away from the stove.
6. Keep anything that can catch fire - pot holders, oven mitts, wooden utensils, paper or plastic bags, food packaging, and towels or curtains—away from your stove, oven or any other appliance in the kitchen that generates heat.
7. Clean cooking surfaces on a regular basis to prevent grease buildup.
8. Consider purchasing a fire extinguisher to keep in your kitchen. Contact your local fire department to take training on the proper use of extinguishers.
9. Always check the kitchen before going to bed or leaving the home to make sure all stoves, ovens, and small appliances are turned off.
10. Install a smoke alarm near your kitchen, on each level of your home, near sleeping areas, and inside and outside bedrooms if you sleep with doors closed. Use the test button to check it each month. Replace all batteries at least once a year.

April Showers Can Mean Homeowner Headaches

4/12/2020 (Permalink)

April has always been known for the many rain showers that occur. In an effort to ensure that the showers do not damage your home, it is important for you to act before the rain comes! Here are some things you can check to prevent damage to your home! 

Check your roof. The shingles can be damaged or just worn down which can create a mess for a homeowner. Make sure you check around the chimney. This can be a place that can easily be damaged during a storm. 

Check your foundation. A crack in the foundation can lead to water damaging the home. To prevent water damage, look around your house for puddles, leaks, moisture on the walls, and moisture around the windows. 

Check the seals in your home. Around windows and doors, check the caulking which over time can become a major issue. If you are unsure whether it needs it, ask a professional to look at the seal to see whether it needs to be redone or not. 

If this April you notice an issue in your home such as water in area where it does not belong, call SERVPRO of Statesboro at (912) 764-9542. 

When Every Second Matters!

4/12/2020 (Permalink)

We offer a fast response 7 days a week, 365 days a year, and are available to take your call anytime. Water damage does not wait for Monday at 10:00 AM to happen. We realize that you want to get your life back to normal as soon as possible after a water loss. All our restoration methods meet industry standards, and our technicians are trained to IICRC standards. We have the technology and equipment that help our team ensure your house is back "Like it never even happened." We offer all our customers comprehensive water mitigation services, and we have a long history of working with insurance companies, so your claims are processed as quickly as possible.

No matter what caused your water damage problem, it is imperative that you have a fast response in calling us and that we move quickly and efficiently in making repairs. In just minutes, water can spread to other areas of your home. After a few hours, floors can become unrepairable. After only a few days, water can create severe complications and secondary damage such as microbial growth. 

Immediately after the loss, you can do a few things before we get there. The removal of wet items that are not permanently there will help tremendously such as rugs, curtains, and more. If you have furniture in the area where the loss has occurred, move the furniture or place waterproof material under each leg to help avoid more or any damage to the legs of furniture. When you call our office, our technician or crew chief may go over a few more steps to ensure your property can be repaired while we are en route to your house. 

At SERVPRO of Statesboro, we understand how crucial it is to move fast after water damage has occurred. Call us as soon as you can after the loss at (912) 764-9542.

Prepping For A Storm

4/12/2020 (Permalink)

When a storm is approaching your home, there are some steps you can take to minimize any potential damages from strong storms and potential flooding. If you know a heavy storm is coming and you have time, follow these steps.

• Make sure all your windows are shut tightly.
• Bring in or tie down any outside furniture.
• Make sure your gutters are clean to allow water to flow away from your home.
• Cut down any dead branches or limbs around your home.
• Seal any water leaks on your roof if possible.

Be prepared to lose power for any length of time. Strong storms can bring heavy winds which can cause power outages. Even a few hours of no power can be difficult to handle especially with young children. Go to our Storm Ready Kit blog to read about a kit to create to help with the loss of power. 

Storm Ready Kit

4/12/2020 (Permalink)

Always be prepared & there is never such thing as being overly prepared.

It feels as if we are constantly prepping for a storm - whether that is a hurricane, thunderstorm, or even the rare winter storm that passes through the southern part of Georgia.

Our team at SERVPRO headquarters (HQ) has put together a list of basic household items you may want to keep in stock and store in a weather proof, safe place in case you find yourself in an emergency storm situation. We encourage checking on your items every 3 months to ensure they are in working order and haven't passed the expiration date.

 Suggested items:

• Water- one gallon per person for at least three days.
• Food- at least a three day supply of non-perishable food.
• Battery powered or hand crank radio
• Flashlight.
• Extra batteries.
• Candles.
• Phone chargers.
• Road flares.
• Rain ponchos.
• Tarp.
• Wet wipes.
• A whistle to signal for help.

When you get caught in a storm, damage to your home is likely. It could be from a limb on your tree or rain leaking through a window. If you see any damage to your home due to a storm, call us at (912) 764-9542 so we can help you through the mitigation process. 

We Are Cleaning Experts

4/12/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Statesboro is trained and qualified to assist you during this COVID-19 pandemic.

SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need

During this unprecedented time caused by the global pandemic of coronavirus, this is a reminder to our customers that we are specialists in cleaning services, and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards.

Specialized Training

We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform on a daily basis.

The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets and tables. Other spaces mentioned in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces include:

• Kitchen/Food Areas
• Bathrooms
• Schools/Classrooms
• Offices
• Retail Spaces
• Water Fountains
• Shelving/Racks
• Sales Counters
• Carpets and Rugs
• Stair Handrails
• Elevator Cars
• Playground Equipment
• Fitness Equipment

Specialized Products

The CDC recommends usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar pathogens to the coronavirus. Multiple products in the SERVPRO product line carry the EPA-approved emerging pathogens claims. While there is currently no product tested against this particular strain of the coronavirus, we are following all guidelines as provided by the CDC and local authorities.

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning

If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of Statesboro- 912.764.9542.

Hoarding Disorder & SERVPRO

4/8/2020 (Permalink)

This is an example of how extreme hoarding can be.

SERVPRO is known for water & fire damage clean up, mold remediation, storm damage clean up, & commercial services; however, were you aware that SERVPRO also handles Biohazard clean up?

We provide cleanup and recovery services for many biohazard situations, one being hoarding scenes.

According to a Washington Post publication released on 04/11/2016; studies show that compulsive hoarding affects up to 6% of the population, or 19 million Americans, and it has been found to run in families.

A difficult aspect of Hoarding Disorder (HD) is that the person finds it hard to part with their possessions because of the perceived need to save them.

SERVPRO understands the toll hoarding can take on an individual and their family. In some cases a person diagnosed with Hoarding Disorder (HD) can be ordered by the court system  to clean up the home and property.

So the question is why SERVPRO? Our company is trained to safely remove biohazards of all types and dispose of them properly in accordance with OSHA and health regulations. SERVPRO also realizes that a hoarding scene can be both dangerous and extremely emotional for the customer and their family.

We provide cleanup and recovery services for many biohazard situations, one being hoarding scenes. According to hoarding statistics, about 5% of the entire population in the universe displays some sort of clinical hoarding.

Being someone diagnosed with Hoarding Disorder (HD) can be difficult, as they find it hard to part with their possessions because of the perceived need to save them.

SERVPRO understands the toll hoarding can take on an individual and their family. In some cases a person diagnosed with Hoarding Disorder (HD) can be ordered by the court system  to clean up the home and property.

Can leaving a water bottle in a hot car start a fire?

7/25/2019 (Permalink)

Can leaving a water bottle in a hot car start a fire?

If you are anything like me everything gets left in my car all the time, from bags, to shoes, even clothes; it’s a normal thing. We practically live in our cars, right? Well, the one item you should think twice about leaving in the car, especially when it’s hot, are water bottles. Now you’re probably thinking, what’s the harm in leaving a water bottle in the car? Well, I’ll tell you.

Plastic water bottles or glass reusable water bottles in your car are actually a fire hazard! Yes! A friend of mine recently found this out the hard way. She had actually had a wreck (everyone was fine, no bodily injuries. There was just some car damage.) and while sitting in the driver seat waiting on a tow truck she started to smell a "funny" smell in the car. She starts to investigate the "funny" smell and it turns out the bottle of water she’d left in the back seat was refracting light and causing the seat to catch on fire! As if the damage to the outside of her car wasn’t enough, she now had burn marks in her back seat! Hey, it could have been a lot worse. The whole car could have gone up in flames if it had gone unnoticed!

Incidents like these are pretty rare but it’s something we should be aware of. Firefighters have even issued a warning to drivers about hazardous water bottles.

A test was conducted by The Oklahoma Midwest City Fire Department on the matter and found that sunlight magnified by a water bottle can reach 250 degrees Fahrenheit. Firefighter David Richardson explained that the sunlight “uses the liquid and the clear material to develop a focused beam and sure enough, it can actually cause a fire, a combustion”.

Plastic water bottles can be even more dangerous because they leak harmful chemicals when left in heat. In a study investigating the effects of storage temperatures on the release of chemicals like antimony and bisphenol A, it was found that more chemicals were released as temperatures increased. The experiment also showed that when the water bottles were stored at 158 °F for 4 weeks, the release of bisphenol A and antimony didn’t meet regulation standards for chronic daily intake.

Bisphenol A, also known as BPA, is a chemical that has gotten some bad publicity over the years, and for good reason. It has been proven to alter hormone levels and is specifically linked with lower testosterone levels in men. BPA also contributes to cancer development and progression. Antimony, on the other hand, can cause stomach pain, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach ulcers. It’s safe to say that ingesting large amounts of either of these chemicals isn’t good for anybody.

With this summer heatwave we have going on you’re probably going to be drinking a lot of water. Be cautious of the bottles you’re drinking from and where you leave them. Opt for the BPA free reusable bottles and take them with you – you’ll preserve your health, the environment, and your car that way!

Duct Cleaning

6/24/2019 (Permalink)

Air duct cleaning involves removing the dust and contaminants that can exist within the duct work. Air duct cleaning involves powerful vacuums that can pull the dust and debri from deep within, preventing it from moving and circulating throughout the home.

Dust can settle in your duct work after just a few hours of non-movement. When you power your system up, that dust begins to move. The dust, along with other contaminants can settle on your furniture, bedding, flooring, etc. 

Even if no one in you home suffers from allergies or respiratory conditions, cleaner air helps keep you healthier. Every time you breathe in dust and pollutant, they have the potential to trigger sneezing and coughing. It can also impact sinuses or bronchial congestion.

When your duct work and registers have heavy buildup, they may not operate as efficiently as possible.

Clean air ducts ensures you’ll always have a clean air supply to breathe in. 

SERVPRO of Statesboro provides duct cleaning. In some instances duct cleaning isn’t necessary, but we can make the proper recommendations in reference to the best way to address any indoor air quality concerns. 

Call us today for your free estimate, 912.764.9542.

IICRC Trauma & Crime Scene Clean Up Training

6/19/2019 (Permalink)

Mock crime scene for IICRC Training & Crime Scene Clean Up training.

Frank Harris, the owner of SERVPRO of Statesboro, participated in IICRC Trauma and Crime Scene Clean Up Training (TCST). The TCST training course reviews the process for inspecting and investigating crime and trauma scenes, which may involve blood and other potentially infectious materials. The course focuses on the procedures to follow as well as the precautions that must be taken. This course gives the participants the opportunity to engage in interactive experiences first hand.

One question everyone asks is if a formal education is required to handle trauma & crime scene cleanups & the answer is no; however, completion of a professional training course is a requirement to engage in trauma & crime scene clean up.

PLEASE NOTE: This is not an actual trauma or crime scene. This is a mock version for training purposes only.

Spring and Summer Storm Tips

4/16/2019 (Permalink)

Each year, thunderstorms alone cause approximately $15 billion in property damage. Summer and spring seasons are the most vulnerable to these destructive and frightening storms.

There are several ways to prepare your property for the summer.

1. Always have an emergency kit with these items that you probably already have in your house: flashlight, battery powered weather radio, extra batteries to fit each electronic, non-perishable foods, lots of bottled water, can opener, first aid kit, fire extinguisher, blankets, extra clothes, sturdy shoes or boots, clock or watch, whistle to signal for help, and any important personal items and documents.

2. Know the safest structure of your home to go to during a severe storm such as a basement, underground cellar, or even the most inner part of your home away from windows.

3. Get routine maintenance on your roof and the foundation. Cracks in the roof are the number one leading cause to flooding damage.

4. Cut down any unwanted trees or limbs and get your trees trimmed before summer storm season. Trees and branches can fall on your property and damage the siding, windows, and roof.

5. Contact your insurance company to be more familiar with your policy. Most home insurers do not cover flooding damage.

6. Keep all expensive and favored possessions off the floor and away from low ground in case of flooding.

7. Invest in storm windows.

8. Keep all patio furniture, grills, etc in doors before a summer storm hits. Do not forget to part your vehicles in the garage.

9. If your town is evacuating due to a hurricane, secure and board up windows and any openings of your home. 

10. Finally, take those summer storm warnings and alerts seriously, especially tornado and hurricane warnings. Tornadoes and hurricanes can lead to total property loss and even death.

April is Child Abuse Prevention Month

3/26/2019 (Permalink)

April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month. This is an annual observance in the United States in which communities come together to dedicate their time in raising awareness and preventing child abuse. The month of April was designated as Child Abuse Prevention Month in the United States in 1983. According to the National Children’s Alliance, nearly 700,000 children are abused in the United States annually.

On April 20^th the Exchange Club of Statesboro will be sponsoring a community picnic in recognition of Child Abuse Prevention Month.

SERVPRO of Statesboro is very proud to announce that we will be joining in on this event and we can’t wait to see everyone there showing their support for the kids and families of our community. 

February Employee of the Month

3/26/2019 (Permalink)

Scott Kingery, February Employee of the Month

Here at SERVPRO we value each of our employees. People rarely succeed unless they have fun in what they are doing and that is what we strive for. We have learned that the only way to do great work is to love what you do.

Every month SERVPRO likes to recognize an employee that brings a positive attitude and goes above and beyond to help the company grow as a whole.

Scott Kingery is one of our many dedicated employees and it is our honor to name him February Employee of the Month.

 Scott has been with SERVPRO for 6 years and has been a true asset to the company.

Scott, thank you for all that you do to make this company run efficiently and for the respect you give to our customers and staff.

March Employee of the Month

3/26/2019 (Permalink)

Wiliam Brower, March Employee of the Month

Here at SERVPRO we value each of our employees. Your work is going to fill up a huge part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. We have learned that the only way to do great work is to love what you do.

Every month SERVPRO likes to recognize an employee that brings positivity to work place and most importantly to our customers.

William Brower is one of our many dedicated employees and it is our honor to name him March Employee of the Month.

William has been with SERVPRO for a brief time, but has managed to excel and show us that he is a true asset to our company.

William, thank you for your hard work and dedication to the company. We truly appreciate all that you do.

Fire in your office? Are you ready?

3/5/2019 (Permalink)

We all tend to focus on the safety of our families. Typically, we begin to talk to our children about fire safety when they are very young. What do they need to do if a fire happens? How do they escape if a parent cannot get to them? Where do they wait outside for an adult or firefighter? These are some of the questions we tend to always know the answer too. But what about at work? Here are a few tips about ensuring your employees are always safe! 

Emergency Ready Plan. During your Monday morning meeting go through the company's emergency plan and procedures. Ensure each team member knows the best exit from each part of the building. Don't forget to do this walking a New Hire through the building. Show each team member where every fire alarm is, and how each work to notify the whole building of a fire. The team should also know where each and every fire extinguisher is in the building. 

Fire Drills are not only for school systems but also work environments! Set aside time to have a fire drill. This will ensure that each team members knows how to escape and where to meet outside in case of a fire. 

These are just small things to do in your place of business to keep your employees safe! If you have a fire break out in your office, do you have your own Emergency Ready Plan for your building? Call SERVPRO of Statesboro at (912) 764-9542 so we can get you started with our free ERP! 

Fire Safety Tips

2/27/2019 (Permalink)

The vast majority of which are home fires. The most common kitchen fire is from leaving something unattended. Depending on the materials in the kitchen, you could have only minutes to escape the danger. 

Here are some fire safety tips: 

• Install Smoke Alarms on every level of your home, inside bedrooms, and outside sleeping areas.
• Test Smoke Alarms every month. 
• If you have children, talk with every family member about how to escape from their room. Have a safe place outside such as a tree in the yard, neighbor, or mailbox. Each member should go there immediately for parents to know that everyone made it out safely. 
• If a Fire occurs in your home, GET OUT, STAY OUT and CALL FOR HELP.

SERVPRO of Statesboro has IICRC certified technicians on our team to help you through the aftermath of a fire. 

Prep for a Hurricane

2/27/2019 (Permalink)

As the weather begins to improve, hurricane season always sneaks up on our area. SERVPRO of Statesboro is part of the Disaster Response Team with SERVPRO. We know how difficult it can be when a storm hits. Because of this, we always want to have the best and most current tips on hurricane preparedness. Here are a few hurricane preparation tips for homeowners. 

1. When a storm is approaching, always keep your eye close on the weather channel. As we have seen the past few years, the hurricane can change its path constantly. 

2. If a hurricane is coming your way, go through your belongings and find the important paperwork for your house and vehicles to keep with you in the event of an evacuation. 

3. If you experience back water flooding it is important to remember the water is contaminated. Make sure to decontaminate any items that may have come in contact with the water.

4. Do not drive in rising water. Wait until water recedes to go into your home.

5. Take pictures, plenty of pictures. It is important to remember to include time stamps to show insurance companies when image was taken. 

If a hurricane damages your home, we will be there to help with the aftermath. If you have any questions or concerns about hurricane damage, please call our office at (912) 764-9542. 

New Owners

2/20/2019 (Permalink)

Our new owners, Frank Harris (left) and Carl Perazzola (right)

SERVPRO of Statesboro is excited to announce that we have new owners, Frank Harris and Carl Perazzola. Frank and Carl became a part of the SERVPRO franchise 5 years ago when they decided to purchase SERVPRO of Bryan, Effingham, McIntosh & East Liberty Counties. Since then they have grown that territory tremendously.

About a year ago, they wanted to continue to grow the company so they began to look at the possibilities. They landed on purchasing SERVPRO of Statesboro.

Frank and Carl feel very fortunate to grow into the surrounding territory. SERVPRO of Statesboro and SERVPRO of Bryan, Effingham, McIntosh & East Liberty Counties are looking forward to working together to tackle both territories. So if you see some more green vehicles in the area, you know why! We have doubled our team in both areas to tackle on the work load. We are very excited to start 2019 as a joint team. 

Spring Cleaning and Check those Batteries

2/20/2019 (Permalink)

Spring is quickly approaching. The air is becoming warmer and the days are getting longer. We have already posted some Spring cleaning tips so hurry and read them before getting started! In addition to the deep clean that happens in your home, you need to check the batteries in your house. I am not talking about the remote batteries, but the smoke alarm batteries. Some smoke alarms may malfunction, and it may not alert you that the batteries are dying or dead. So during that Spring cleaning, you should always check and/or change the batteries in every single smoke alarm. 

Every home should have multiple smoke alarms. One near the kitchen as this is a common place for a fire to break out in the house. A smoke alarm should also be on every level in the home- a basement, main floor, second floor, and even the attic. Why the attic? This is a place for an electrical fire to break out. In addition, no one monitors this place in the home so it is the perfect place for a fire to form and spread to the point where a homeowner cannot extinguish the fire. 

2019 Community Youth Day

2/19/2019 (Permalink)

Miranda and a child bonding over love for the hula-hoop!

Our Account Manager, Miranda Winter, is part of the 2019 Leadership Bulloch Class. Each class has to plan and execute a class project. Miranda's class decided to sponsor a Community Youth Day at Luetta More Park in downtown Statesboro this past weekend. The park’s proximity to small communities and neighborhoods makes it a popular hang out for kids and families of all ages. Since Leadership Bulloch is a Chamber sponsored program, the class is not allowed to raise funds for the class project so they began asking local businesses if they would like to donate items such as soaps, toothbrushes, food, and more around November to make this event possible.

Spring is in the air.. Spring cleaning is upon us

2/6/2019 (Permalink)

It is starting to feel like spring. Coincidence that Phil the Groundhog said this past weekend it would be an early spring? Let's talk that dreaded Spring Cleaning!

On the first warm, dry day of the season, everybody in the family—that is, everyone in the family who had survived the ravages of the cold season—would pitch in to pull every stick of furniture and scrap of cloth outside. Then, armed with brooms and washrags, one squad of housecleaners would return to the house, sweeping and scrubbing every corner and washing down the walls, while another would air out linens, remove soot and ash from couches and chairs, dust books and paintings, and mend a few items on the run.

Today, the thought of taking a day or weekend to turn our houses upside down seems a near impossibility. Who has the time? Besides, our modern centrally heated and cooled, climate-controlled homes don’t get oily, sooty, or smoky, and our washing machines and vacuum cleaners help keep the dirt from sneaking in.

True enough. Still, there are trade-offs: our houses are airtight, comparatively speaking, but they also can’t breathe. They’re full of chemicals and gases, from the components of floor wax to the microfibers of carpets, that our ancestors never knew.

When a warm, dry day does come, the first order of business is to head to each bedroom, strip down the beds, and take everything that isn’t nailed down outdoors. Hang quilts, blankets, comforters, and mattress covers out on the line (or, if the neighbors are forgiving, spread them out on hedges or on the lawn) and let them bask in the sun for the day. Set up a couple of sawhorses and drag the mattress out for a good airing, too. You will be slaughtering dust mites by the millions, and a jolly massacre it will be.

The next step is work your way from the top of the house to the bottom, dusting and then sweeping or vacuuming every corner of the room. Fling open the windows wide, and let fresh air circulate; it’s amazing the difference a day’s airing can make for a house that’s been shut up all winter. If, that is, your house will allow you to open windows at all, as no hotel built within the last ten years seems to permit.

It’s time now to do some heavy lifting, literally: move the stove and refrigerator and give the floor underneath a good scrub. Self-cleaning ovens don’t need much maintenance these days, but microwaves do; if you’re not in the habit of giving yours a weekly sponging down, then put two cups of water into a Pyrex bowl, throw in two lemon halves, and turn the oven on high setting for ten minutes. Then take a fresh washcloth (always preferable to a sponge) and scrub the oven rack and walls, taking care not to skip the ceiling. Give it a second scrubbing with half a cup of plain white vinegar diluted in half a cup of warm water, then add another cup of water to the bowl and turn the oven on for another ten minutes. The lemon will remove the smell of the vinegar, and your oven will be like new. 

Now for the windows. Dust and vacuum the drapes, blinds, and shades. Wash the windows inside and out. Again, a mixture of white vinegar and warm water is as good as any commercial cleaner; I will refuse to feel guilty if this advice brings the window-spray conglomerates to financial ruin.

You’re probably ready for lunch now. Take a break. Then give the house a quick once-over. Do you have smoke detectors? Now’s the time to change the batteries, which will usually last a year. Do you have a ceiling fan or a chandelier? Now’s the time to climb up on a stepladder and remove dust from the top of the fan blades and crystals.

Ready for a cup of coffee? It’s probably time for one. You already know that spring cleaning is made all the easier by keeping up with the cleaning chores daily, weekly, and monthly throughout the year. A legion of self-improvement, time-management, and uncluttering consultants and web sites stands ready to dispense advice on just how to do that, one of the ironies of this age of consumption and of the constant hurry to acquire the money to acquire more stuff.

Now it’s time to head to the bedroom closets, the garage, the basement—or maybe it’s time to send your loved ones in to do that terrible work, or even to hire someone for the job.  Call SERVPRO of Statesboro at 912-764-9542 to set up a Spring Clean Deep Clean.  Then, sit back and enjoy the nice Spring weather and your sparkling clean home.

Do's and Don't's of Mold

2/6/2019 (Permalink)

If you see visible mold, do not disturb it. You can inadvertently spread the mold infestation throughout your home. When mold is disturbed, the mold can release microscopic mold spores which become airborne and can circulate inside your home.

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact SERVPRO of Statesboro for mold remediation services.

What Not to Do:

• Don’t touch or disturb the mold.
• Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.
• Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself.
• Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.

About Our Mold Remediation Services

SERVPRO of Statesboro specializes in mold cleanup and restoration, in fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business.  Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 912-764-9542

Understanding Dehu Specs

1/10/2018 (Permalink)

When checking out the specs on a dehumidifier you’ll usually find listed under the section “Water Removal” two numbers. One is noted as AHAM (Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers) and one is “Capacity at Saturation”. But what do these numbers represent and how are they calculated?

AHAM certifies that the PPD (Pints per day) a manu-facturer claims their product will remove is accurate. All dehu’s are tested in a controlled environment where the temperature is 80° F with a relative humidity of 60%. The units are run for 24 hours and the measured amount of extracted water becomes the official AHAM rating.

But even though each dehu is tested the same, the problem is that real world conditions are many times quite different. There have also been questions about whether the ratings that are being applied to “Home” appliances should have any bearing on the type of commercial units that you employ. And that’s where the “saturation” number becomes important.

Saturation can best be described as any extreme condition where the amount of moisture that is in the air is so high that a dehu is forced to run continually over a 24 hour period (100% RH). Situations like this might arise with flooded basements or natural disasters like hurricanes. So the saturation PPD rating will be at the top end of your dehu’s capability.

There exist a sizable number of temperature/humidity combinations that occur naturally or are due to the use of heat drying that causes faster evaporation. These all affect a dehumidifiers performance. Having more than two test conditions listed in the unit’s specs could give you a better idea of its overall performance, but that’s not likely to happen. But having some understanding of its performance capacity will help to ensure you’ve got the right sized unit on the job.


 

7th Annual SERVPRO Golf Tournament and C.A.F.E. Fundraiser

1/5/2018 (Permalink)

Bill Taylor, Peggy Garner and Steve Garner.

On September 28^th, 2017 we held our 7^th Annual SERVPRO Golf Tournament and C.A.F.E. Fundraiser. This is an event that we look forward to every year.

The C.A.F.E., Community Assistance in Fire Emergencies, is an organization that is funded solely by donations from the community. The C.A.F.E. responds at the request of the Fire Department when someone is displaced by a house fire. They offer shelter until accommodations can be made for the family along with blankets, emergency clothing, etc.  

This year, we are proud to say that through our Tournament and donations, we raised $5,000.00 for the C.A.F.E. Unit. Without the help of our community and sponsors we could not make this possible every year. Thank you so much for your continued support of this event.

We look forward to next year!

The Need for Air Filtration Device’s on Every Job

1/4/2018 (Permalink)

One of the more fascinating aspects about disaster restoration is that no two jobs are alike. That being said, you will most likely run across at least one of the following conditions 100% of the time:

• Some sort of contamination
• Where you need to dry carpet in place or by floating
• Where structural cavities need drying
• A customer who asks for air filtration
• Customers that are considered to be "at-risk" due to allergies, asthma, etc.

The common denominator of these conditions is that they're all associated with and/or can adversely affect indoor air quality. That’s the reason why you should have air scrubbers (or AFD’s – Air Filtration Devices) running on every job.

When cleaning up sewage, mold or a fire damage, you can’t help but produce considerable amounts of many airborne hazardous materials due to your cleaning efforts. For instance, smoke and fire residues can be poisonous as a fire will destroy plastics, foam, fabrics, carpets, woods, synthetics, and asbestos-containing materials. And any time you unsettle toxins that may be lurking in wall or ceiling enclosures, there’s a good chance that they’ll float into the occupied areas of the structure.

You even need to be concerned about air quality on clean water losses. Due to the need for high-speed air movers to facilitate efficient drying, a myriad of minute particles that are trapped in carpets and furniture are stirred up and can cause adverse health problems to those who are susceptible.

So what are the benefits of having air scrubbers of every job?

• They help to reduce the quantity of possibly harmful air particles, decreasing the chance that occupants or technicians will inhale them.
• You’ll have cleaner equipment with less maintenance.
• Clean equipment also reduces the chance of cross contaminating the next job.

That's why making air scrubbers available on every jobsite makes good business sense.

How to Prevent Frozen Pipes

1/4/2018 (Permalink)

• Keep garage doors closed if there are water supply lines in the garage.
• Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing. Be sure to move any harmful cleaners and household chemicals up out of the reach of children.
• When the weather is very cold outside, let the cold water drip from the faucet served by exposed pipes. Running water through the pipe - even at a trickle - helps prevent pipes from freezing.
• Keep the thermostat set to the same temperature both during the day and at night. By temporarily suspending the use of lower nighttime temperatures, you may incur a higher heating bill, but you can prevent a much more costly repair job if pipes freeze and burst.
• If you will be going away during cold weather, leave the heat on in your home, set to a temperature no lower than 55° F.

To learn more information on Frozen Pipes and How to Prevent Them, Click on this link,  http://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/winter-storm/frozen-pipes

Provided by the Red Cross.

Thunderstorm Preparedness

10/26/2017 (Permalink)

The Red Cross and SERVPRO are always here to help!

Be Prepared for Thunderstorms and Severe Weather

• Learn about your local community’s emergency warning system for severe thunderstorms
• Discuss thunderstorm safety and lightning safety with all members of your household
• Pick a safe place in your home for household members to gather during a thunderstorm This should be away from windows, skylights and glass doors that could be broken by strong winds or hail
• Make a list of items to bring inside in the event of a severe thunderstorm
• Make trees and shrubbery more wind resistant by keeping them trimmed and removing damaged branches
• Protect your animals by ensuring that any outside buildings that house them are protected in the same way as your home
• Consult your local fire department if you are considering installing lightning rods
• Get trained in first aidand learn how to respond to emergencies
• Put together an emergency preparedness kit:
• Water—one gallon per person, per day
• Food—non-perishable, easy-to-prepare
• Flashlight
• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio (NOAA Weather Radio, if possible)
• Extra batteries
• First aid kit
• Medications (7-day supply) and medical items
• Multi-purpose tool
• Sanitation & personal hygiene items
• Copies of personal documents
• Cell phone with chargers
• Family & emergency contact information
• Extra cash

Paws N Claws at Georgia Southern

10/26/2017 (Permalink)

Paws N Claws at Georgia Southern Photo-Booth Fundraiser. Diamond, MoJo, Tony (with Marketing Rep Miranda) and Irma.

Paws N Claws at Georgia Southern is an organization that was created by the Humane Society of Statesboro-Bulloch Co. in order to raise awareness regarding the overpopulation of dogs and cats here locally in Statesboro. Through volunteering and fundraising, students at Georgia Southern offer their time to try to save the many four legged friends who need our help throughout the community.

Paws N Claws and the Humane Society hold several fundraisers and events through out the year. The fundraiser our Marketing Rep. Miranda attended today was the Pet Photo-Booth.

The Pet Photo-booth Fundraiser gives you the opportunity to snap some pictures with the adoptable pups. How is it a fundraiser you ask? Well, it's $1.00 to pet the pups and $2.00 to snap a pic with a pup. A small price to pay to snuggle these cuties and help raise money to go towards their care and the organization.

The pups at the events are all up for adoption. These are just a few of the available animals. They have other dogs at the shelter needing  homes, as well as cats. 

The next big fundraiser the Humane Society has coming up is, Raise the Woof! It's a stand up comedy show on Friday, November 3rd, 2017 at 7:30pm.

If you are looking to add a furry friend to your family, check your local shelter or Humane Society first. Remember, a four legged friend is a life long commitment who deserves your love and attention for their life time, not just when it's convenient for you. 

Save a life! Adopt don't shop!

Build An Emergency Kit- You'll Thank Yourself Later!

10/24/2017 (Permalink)

1. Water – 1 gallon per person per day – Sealed water bottles are best for storage. You can also freeze them ahead of time to keep food cold longer.

2.Non-Perishable Food – At least a 3 day supply per person of food that does not require cooking or refrigeration. (Canned meat, vegetables, juices & fruits, crackers, granola bars, trail mix, etc.)

3. Manual can opener.

4. Plastic garbage bags.

5. Flashlight, batteries, back up phone charger.

6. First aid kit – various sizes of adhesive bandages, cold packs (non refrigerated type), scissors, tweezers.

7. Hygiene items – toilet paper, towelettes, soap, baby wipes, liquid hand sanitizer.

8. Matches – stored in a waterproof container.

9. Cash – have enough cash to sustain you through a 2 week period. Without electricity, most businesses (if open) will not accept credit cards and may not accept traveler’s checks.

10. Emergency phone numbers.

11. Entertainment – games, books, etc. to help pass the time if power goes out.

Should I Encapsulate My Crawl Space?

10/10/2017 (Permalink)

Crawl space encapsulation is a generic term used to describe a crawl space that is protected from moisture by using a vapor barrier on the floor and walls. This term was and is widely marketed by different basement waterproofing franchises in the early part of the century. Crawl space encapsulation has become directly associated with a white vapor barrier installed in the crawl space to cover the floor and walls.

Improvement over a “closed” crawl space

An encapsulated crawl space uses all of the features applied to a closed crawl space with a few exceptions. To be an encapsulated crawl space the vapor barrier is continued up the foundation wall and sealed (taped) to the floor vapor barrier. All supports, as well as plumbing that comes through the dirt and walls are also sealed. A polyurethane caulk or two sided foundation tape is applied between the foundation wall and the crawl space vapor barrier to seal the moisture under the barrier. In most cases the vapor barrier that is used is made of high quality polyethylene with a polyester mesh reinforcement. Although some companies offer a clear visqueen plastic purchased from a local hardware as a solution to keep their costs down.

Environmental Control

The purpose of crawl space encapsulation is to create an environment that can be controlled. The reason the open crawl space is so bad is because the environment is allowed to change daily, sometimes hourly. Much like building a swimming pool and refusing to full it with water because of the extra expense and time, the steps to encapsulating a crawl space should end with an environment that you are controlling and therefore you have conditioned the air. Once you have transformed the space, by way of crawl space encapsulation, into an area that is part of the house it will be cleaner and healthier for your home and family.

Think of it as a….

Maybe you have heard or read somewhere on this site that a crawl space is like a basement in many ways. Well, it is. In the function of the homes air quality and moisture penetration. Crawl space encapsulation is essentially the same answer to a crawl space as the concrete floor in a basement. Under that concrete floor is a vapor barrier to control moisture. The concrete on the floor is for walking or use durability only. When a quality vapor barrier is used to encapsulate a crawl space it will hold up to crawl traffic and not tear like thin plastic will.

It’s Just Plastic

Not all crawl space vapor barriers are created equal, but the truth is all will help in some way. A quality vapor barrier will last for 25 years or more, while a 6 or 10 mil clear plastic from the hardware store might last 3 to 5 years. The real investment is in the time and effort it takes to do it right, so for a little bit more money up front your efforts will have a lasting result. If odor is a concern make sure the vapor barrier that is installed is made of polyethylene and not PVC. PVC liners will off gas and smell like a pool liner. If a PVC liner off gasses in the crawl space you will smell it in your home.

Brooklet Residents: Follow These Mold Safety Tips If You Suspect Mold

8/31/2017 (Permalink)

A slow faucet leak can cause a lot of mold growth. Be careful! Without proper training, you could be spreading mold throughout your home.

If you see visible mold, do not disturb it. You can inadvertently spread the mold infestation throughout your home. When mold is disturbed, the mold can release microscopic mold spores which become airborne and can circulate inside your home.

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact SERVPRO of Statesboro for mold remediation services.

What Not to Do:

• Don’t touch or disturb the mold.
• Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.
• Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself.
• Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.

About Our Mold Remediation Services

SERVPRO of Statesboro specializes in mold cleanup and restoration, in fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business.  Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – (912) 764-9542

Swainsboro Smoke and Soot Cleanup

8/31/2017 (Permalink)

The Fire Took Place in the Kitchen but the smoke and soot could be found throughout other parts of the home.

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor.

Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action and make it look "Like it never even happened."

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Statesboro will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Restoring Your Statesboro Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event

8/30/2017 (Permalink)

Commercial Water Damage Events Present Unique Challenges. Water leaked in-between the roof and ceiling of this facility.

Flooding and water damage events at Statesboro commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response.

Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area.

In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints.

We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

About SERVPRO of Statesboro

SERVPRO of Statesboro specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration.

From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property and make it "Like it never even happened."

Flood Facts Quiz

10/5/2016 (Permalink)

1. What is the #1 source of natural disaster losses in the United State?

A. Flood       B. Wind         C-Fire

2. In a high risk area your home is more likely to be damaged by:

A. Flood       B. Fire

3. Most homeowners insurance covers flood damage, true or false?

4. Just a few inches of water from a flood can cause tens of thousands of dollars in damage, true or false?

5. What is it called when winds combine with tides to create a huge wave that push water miles inland?

6. What can cause flooding in mountain areas when the sun is out?

7. From 2005 to 2014 total flood insurance claims averaged more than:

A. $97.6 Million       B. $3.5 Billion      C. $1.8 Billion

8. What percentage of all flood insurance claims come from outside of mapped high-risk areas?

A. 9%         B. 15%         C. 20%

9. Storms can cause major flooding in desert states during what season?

Answers:

1. A-Floods

2. B-Floods

3. False

4. True

5. Storm Surge

6. Melting Snow

7. B-$3.5 Billion

8. C-20%

9. Monsoon

The Process of Restoring your Bulloch, Jenkins, Emanuel, Candler and Screven County Properties when there's Water Damage

9/23/2016 (Permalink)

Since every flood and water damage scenario is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for specific conditions. However, the overall water restoration process remains the same.

The steps below detail our restoration process for the typical water-damaged property.

Step 1: 24 Hour Emergency Contact

SERVPRO of Statesboro is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. Even a delay of a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the damage and increase the chances of microbial growth.

We have the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration – in fact, it’s the cornerstone of our business.

Step 2: Inspection and Damage Assessment

As this stage, our professionals are trying to determine the scope of the damage so that we can develop an appropriate plan of action.

• We’ll identity and stop the water source
• Next, we’ll identify the type of water – the level of contamination of the water will affect the specific restoration processes we use.
• Then, we’ll survey the extent of the water damage and complete the safety inspection
• Lastly, we’ll move furniture and property contents and block items to help prevent rust or furniture stains on wet carpet.

Step 3: Water Removal/Water Extraction

After the inspection and damage assessment step, the water extraction process begins. This step removes the majority of the water. We use powerful pumps and truck-mounted vacuum units to quickly remove hundreds or thousands of gallons of water from your property.

• Move-Out/Pack-Out – SERVPRO of Statesboro can conduct an organized, efficient move-out to protect your belongings from further damage.
• We’ll use Submersible Pumps and Industrial Wet/Dry Vacuums to remove the water.
• Next, we’ll inspect the carpet pad and carpet, and remove if needed.
• Then, we’ll bring in moisture detectors and other meters to measure the extent of the moisture saturation.

Step 4: Drying and Dehumidification

Once the excess water has been removed, the floors and walls may appear dry, but a quick inspection will reveal they are wet to the touch. This retained water can cause the materials to break down, warp or cause mold damage.

• Our professionals will use dehumidification equipment to extract the remaining water.
• We then check the moisture levels to monitor the drying process.

Step 5: Cleaning and Repair

In addition to cleaning your property’s structure, we will clean your furniture, upholstery, clothing and other restorable belongings damaged by the water. Our expertise and “restore” versus “replace” mentality can help you save money while preserving precious keepsakes that can’t be replaced.

• We are trained to identify and eliminate offensive odors, and use antimicrobial and antibacterial treatments to sanitize the area.
• We will also remove and dispose of damaged materials with guidance from you and your insurance adjuster.

Step 6: Restoration

This is the process of restoring your home or business to its pre-water damage condition. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall and installing new carpet, or may entail major repairs, such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business. SERVPRO of Statesboro can simplify the restoration process by handling both the initial water damage mitigation and rebuilding the affected areas. Having one qualified company for the entire process can save time and keep costs low.

Restoring Your Bulloch, Candler, Jenkins, Emanuel and Screven County Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event

9/20/2016 (Permalink)

Flooding and water damage events at Bulloch, Candler, Jenkins, Emanuel and Screven County commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

About SERVPRO of Statesboro

SERVPRO of Statesboro specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Meet Our Crew:

http://www.SERVPROstatesboro.com/employee-photos

National Preparedness Month

9/19/2016 (Permalink)

Will you be ready when disaster strikes? SERVPRO ready for whatever happens.

1. Access alerts and warnings – Receiving timely information about weather conditions or other emergency events can make all the difference in knowing when to take action to be safe. Downloading weather apps, following local news stations on social media or watching them on television is a fast way to stay updated on the emergency and will help your family decide what your next action should be.
2. Assembly or update supplies – Like some of us have already experienced, an emergency may knock out power. Prepare by stocking non-perishable food items and water, as well as any type of batteries or chargers you may need.
3. Create your family emergency communication plan – Make a list of contact information for your family and other important people/offices, such as medical facilities, doctors, schools or service providers. Decide on safe, familiar places where your family can go for protection in any type of emergency, for both indoor and outdoor.
4. Document and insure your property – Whether it be weather related (flood and tornado), fire or water damage, having a detailed inventory of your property’s contents will assist you if a disaster strikes. Your inventory will help you prove the value of what you owned, which could speed your claim processing, and will provide documentation for tax deductions you can claim for your losses – it can also determine the correct amount of insurance to purchase. It is important to review your policy annually to remind yourself of your coverage and to make any updates based on new purchases, renovations, increases in property value or increases in costs to rebuild or replace items.
5. Protect your critical documents – Think about the documents you would need to identify yourself and your household members, including children and pets, your relationships or status. Store paper copies in a waterproof and fireproof box, safe or bank deposit box. Secure electronic copies with strong passwords and save them on a flash or external hard drive in your waterproof box or safe. Keep your policy number, insurance professional/company phone number and claim filing instructions in a secure, convenient location.

Remember your safety this month and every month, and contact your local SERVPRO at 912.764.9542 if you have any emergency service needs.

How to Prepare for a Flood

8/8/2016 (Permalink)

How to Prepare for a Flood

You’ll be better prepared to withstand a flood if you have the following items available – packed and ready to go in case you need to evacuate your home

• Water—at least a 3-day supply; one gallon per person per day
• Food—at least a 3-day supply of non-perishable, easy-to-prepare food
• Flashlight [Available on the Red Cross Store]
• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio (NOAA Weather Radio, if possible) [Available on the Red Cross Store]
• Extra batteries
• First Aid kit [Available on the Red Cross Store]
• Medications (7-day supply) and medical items (hearing aids with extra batteries, glasses, contact lenses, syringes, cane)
• Multi-purpose tool
• Sanitation and personal hygiene items
• Copies of personal documents (medication list and pertinent medical information, deed/lease to home, birth certificates, insurance policies)
• Cell phone with chargers
• Family and emergency contact information
• Extra cash
• Emergency blanket
• Map(s) of the area
• Baby supplies (bottles, formula, baby food, diapers)
• Pet supplies (collar, leash, ID, food, carrier, bowl)
• Tools/supplies for securing your home
• Extra set of car keys and house keys
• Extra clothing, hat and sturdy shoes
• Rain gear
• Insect repellent and sunscreen
• Camera for photos of damage

Respond

Responding Appropriately During a Flood

• Listen to area radio and television stations and a NOAA Weather Radio for possible flood warnings and reports of flooding in progress or other critical information from the National Weather Service (NWS)
• Be prepared to evacuate at a moment’s notice.
• When a flood or flash flood warning is issued for your area, head for higher ground and stay there.
• Stay away from floodwaters. If you come upon a flowing stream where water is above your ankles, stop, turn around and go another way. Six inches of swiftly moving water can sweep you off of your feet.
• If you come upon a flooded road while driving, turn around and go another way. If you are caught on a flooded road and waters are rising rapidly around you, get out of the car quickly and move to higher ground. Most cars can be swept away by less than two feet of moving water.
• Keep children out of the water. They are curious and often lack judgment about running water or contaminated water.
• Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize flood danger.
• Because standard homeowner’s insurance doesn’t cover flooding, it’s important to have protection from the floods associated with hurricanes, tropical storms, heavy rains and other conditions that impact the U.S. For more flood safety tips and information on flood insurance, please visit the National Flood Insurance Program Web site at www.FloodSmart.gov.

Recover

Flood Recovery Tips

• Return home only when officials have declared the area safe.
• Before entering your home, look outside for loose power lines, damaged gas lines, foundation cracks or other damage.
• Parts of your home may be collapsed or damaged. Approach entrances carefully. See if porch roofs and overhangs have all their supports.
• Watch out for wild animals, especially poisonous snakes that may have come into your home with the floodwater.
• If you smell natural or propane gas or hear a hissing noise, leave immediately and call the fire department.
• If power lines are down outside your home, do not step in puddles or standing water.
• Keep children and pets away from hazardous sites and floodwater.
• Materials such as cleaning products, paint, batteries, contaminated fuel and damaged fuel containers are hazardous. Check with local authorities for assistance with disposal to avoid risk.
• During cleanup, wear protective clothing, including rubber gloves and rubber boots.
• Make sure your food and water are safe. Discard items that have come in contact with floodwater, including canned goods, water bottles, plastic utensils and baby bottle nipples. When in doubt, throw it out!
• Contact your local or state public health department to see if your water supply might be contaminated. You may need to boil or treat it before use. Do not use water that could be contaminated to wash dishes, brush teeth, prepare food, wash hands, make ice or make baby formula!

Let Your Family Know You're Safe

If your community has experienced a disaster, register on the American Red Cross Safe and Well web site to let your family and friends know about your welfare. You may also call 1-866-GET-INFO to register yourself and your family.

Summer Safety Tips

7/8/2016 (Permalink)

Summer Weather Safety and Survival

Summer Safety Rules

Your National Weather Service Forecast Office in Norman will usually initiate alert procedures when the daytime heat index is expected to exceed 105°F and the nighttime temperature remains at 80°F or more for at least two consecutive days. This will typically result in a Heat Advisory being issued for parts of the area.

What To Look For and Actions To Take

The Symptoms of Heat Disorders...

You can help yourself and others avoid experiencing the HEAT DISORDERS (above) by following these safety rules.

Thinking About Yourself

Thinking About Others

Thinking About Your Environment

Fireworks Safety for the 4th of July

6/30/2016 (Permalink)

The number of Americans planning to use backyard fireworks this Fourth of July is expected to hit an all-time high. In preparation for holiday celebrations, The National Council on Fireworks Safety (NCFS) encourages consumers to review all safety tips before purchasing and using fireworks.

"Every year, safety is our first priority as families begin to plan their Fourth of July festivities. While fireworks are the most iconic and festive way to celebrate our country’s independence, there can be dangers if fireworks are used improperly,” said Nancy Blogin, President of the National Council on Fireworks Safety. “Consumers should purchase fireworks from a reputable company or fireworks stand, check local and state laws for fireworks use in your city, and check all instructions on fireworks packaging before use.”

The fireworks industry has made great progress in improving firework quality and reducing injuries; however, there is still work to be done as the vast majority of fireworks-related injuries in the U.S. each year result from the misuse of fireworks.

We have seen an increase in injuries among youth that have used fireworks in videos unsafely to impress their friends or to get a laugh.  We want parents to help us put a stop to using fireworks in viral videos by encouraging safety and by explaining that the improper use of fireworks can produce serious injuries or even death. 

“We have a collective responsibility as a community to put a stop to improper fireworks usage. If you see something that is unsafe, say something or report it to your local fire or police department,” said Blogin.

The NCFS’s mission is to educate the public on the safe use of fireworks and encourages consumers to follow the following safety tips before engaging in fireworks celebrations this Fourth of July:

1.      Obey all local laws regarding the use of fireworks.

2.      Know your fireworks; read the cautionary labels and performance descriptions before igniting.

3.      A responsible adult should supervise all firework activities.  Never give fireworks to children.

4.      Alcohol and fireworks do not mix.  Save your alcohol for after the show.

5.      Wear safety glasses when shooting fireworks.

6.      Light one firework at a time and then quickly move away.

7.      Do not hold a fireworks item in your hand.

8.      Use fireworks outdoors in a clear area; away from buildings and vehicles.

9.      Never relight a “dud” firework.  Wait 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water before you discard it.

10.  After purchasing fireworks, always store them in a cool, dry place.

11.  When using fireworks always have a connected hose, bucket of water, or other water source nearby.

12.  Never carry fireworks in your pocket or shoot them into metal or glass containers.

13.  Do not experiment with homemade fireworks.

14.  Dispose of spent fireworks by wetting them down and place in a metal trashcan away from any building or combustible materials until the next day.

15.  Ensure all pets and animals are away from fireworks noise.

16.  With the rise in stress-related disorders affecting American service men and women, pay special consideration to individuals who may be sensitive to loud noises in proximity to your fireworks show.

If you have any questions regarding how to properly use fireworks we encourage you to consult your local dealer.

 About The National Council on Fireworks SafetyThe National Council on Fireworks Safety is a nonprofit 501(c) organization dedicated to educating the public about the safe and responsible enjoyment of consumer fireworks. For more information, visit http://www.fireworkssafety.org.

Are you Ready for Hurricane Season?

6/2/2016 (Permalink)

Are you ready for a hurricane?

Standard homeowners insurance doesn’t cover flooding. It’s important to have protection from the floods associated with hurricanes, tropical storms, heavy rains and other conditions that impact the U.S. For more information on flood insurance, please visit the National Flood Insurance Program Web site at www.FloodSmart.gov.