Technology and SERVPRO

7/13/2022 (Permalink)

Keeping a list of emergency contacts or creating an Emergency Ready Profile is easy to do on a mobile phone.

Technology can now be a vital tool in preparing for emergencies or disasters, as well as during or after to stay informed of the situation and in communication with others. From common technology you already use on a day-to-day basis to taking a few extra steps to prepare, the following will help you be ready in the event of an emergency.

Store Information Online

There are many places to store important information securely online. Services like Google Drive and Dropbox offer free ways to store different types of files, from a word document to images of important documents. Ready.gov suggests saving an electronic version of insurance policies, identification documents, medical records, and information on your pets, if necessary.

Follow The News

Stay informed by following agencies such as FEMA, local news channels, and local government on Twitter or Facebook for the most up-to-date information in a disaster situation. You can also alert first responders if a rescue is needed through Twitter or Facebook.

Mark Yourself safe

The American Red Cross offers a safe & Well check-in site to list yourself as safe or find family and friends in a situation where communication is difficult to establish.

Facebook also has a feature called Safety Check that is activated after natural disasters or a crisis. You will receive a notification from Facebook if you're located in the affected area at that time.

Get In Touch

Make sure your contact information is up-to-date in your phone and e-mail for communication with family, friends, business contacts, and others whom you may need to get in contact with before, during, or after a disaster.

Charge Up

Keep a portable charger in your car and home in case of an emergency. You may need to recharge this from time to time, but you can also buy solar-powered chargers as well.

Get an Emergency Ready Profile

SERVPRO is proud to offer Emergency Ready Profiles (ERP) at ready.SERVPRO.com to help prepare you, your property, or your business for an emergency.

By developing a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile for your property or business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your property or business.

Put help in the palm of your hand with the Ready Plan App. Get in touch with you local SERVPRO Franchise Professional today for more information on developing an ERP for your property or business, and SERVPRO will be there to help make it "Like it never even happened." 

Be a Hero For Red Cross Month

3/2/2022 (Permalink)

The American Red Cross assists in many different areas such as blood donations and disaster relief.

Founded in 1881, the American Red Cross is charitable organization the relies on donations and volunteers to carry out their mission. Whether it is disaster relief, blood donations, military family support, or training and certification in CPR, lifeguarding, first aid and more, the Red Cross is committed to helping those who need it most. The American Red Cross is part of the Global Red Cross Network, the world's largest volunteer network found in 187 countries, according to redcross.org.

Every March is Red Cross Month, as first declared by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1943. The American Red Cross celebrates by honoring the "everyday heroes" who support and carry out the mission of the Red Cross by donating, giving blood, taking a class or volunteering. To learn more about the American Red Cross, or about how you can get involved, visit redcross.org.

What Is The SERVPRO Ready Plan?

2/28/2022 (Permalink)

Setting up an Emergency READY Profile allows us to assist you in a more timely fashion!

SERVPRO of Kaufman County / Cedar Creek utilizes the latest technology in order to expedite the mitigation process further increasing our value to our customers. The SERVPRO Ready Plan is a tool for property managers and owners, both residential and commercial. It allows for the creation of an Emergency READY Profile. By developing a SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile for your home or business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your home or business.

Preparation is the key to making it through any sized disaster, whether it's a large fire or area flood, or just a minor water leak. Having an Emergency READY Plan may help minimize the time your business is inactive, and get you back in the building following a disaster.

SERVPRO of Kaufman / Cedar Creek has restoration experts available 24 hours a day to get your business back up and running. Our expertise includes restoration services for fire and water damage, including electronics restoration and document drying. We are also your business’s best resource for mold mitigation and removal.  

Call your local SERVPRO of Kaufman County / Cedar Creek at (972) 329-4747 to help with your Emergency READY Profile and make sure your home or business is secure for 2022!

Duct Cleaning: The Process and Procedure

2/25/2022 (Permalink)

We use specialized tools to get your ducts contaminant and dust-free!

The ventilation system is often the biggest culprit in poor indoor air quality, but you can help change that! Inspecting the duct work in your home or facility should be a high priority.  In most cases, the HVAC has been operating for some time without much attention. Dirty ducts can circulate odors, contaminants such as mold, and irritating dust throughout your building or home.

A routine part of our professional service is inspecting the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning unit (HVAC). Keeping the HVAC and ductwork clean can potentially extend the life-span of the equipment by allowing it to operate at peak condition, which may help you save money. Duct cleaning may not always be necessary. SERVPRO of Kaufman County / Cedar Creek professionals will inspect your HVAC system and duct work and make recommendations about the best way to address any indoor air quality concerns. This inspection can help save you money and provide peace of mind of the health of your HVAC system and ductwork.

In some circumstances, such as after a fire, smoke, or suspected mold growth, duct cleaning becomes an essential part of the cleanup process. in these cases, SERVPRO of Kaufman County / Cedar Creek professionals can often restore the HVAC system and ductwork to pre-damage condition.

If you have a fuel-burning furnace, stove, or fireplace, the U.S Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends they be inspected for proper functioning and be serviced before each heating season to protect against carbon monoxide poisoning. 

The SERVPRO Duct Cleaning System is proven to be cost-efficient. Unlike the majority of duct cleaning services, SERVPRO of Kaufman County / Cedar Creek professionals use a portable ventilation and air duct cleaning system to examine ductwork and make a clean sweep, removing years of dust and grime. 

• The process begins by using patented equipment, including a roto-scraper, which automatically adapts to the duct's shape and diameter while traveling through the duct, removing debris and filth before vacuuming begins.
• Next, a powerful push-pull air delivery and collection system transfers the debris from the ducting to a 16-gallon container.
• Air is filtered through a HEPA filtration system, removing 99.97 percent of the particles in the airstream. HEPA filters capture debris and keep the indoor environment clean. 
• As an optional process, a sealant or coating product may be sprayed to address odor or microbial concerns.
• Filters will either be cleaned or replaced to remove odor and dirt

For more information on duct cleaning or to schedule an appointment, contact SERVPRO of Kaufman County / Cedar Creek for a free estimate! (972) 329-4747

Fire Extinguishers: How-To

2/18/2022 (Permalink)

Make sure you've got the right fire extinguisher for your home or business.

In cold weather conditions, you'll probably want to find some way to heat your home or business, whether it be turning on the heater or lighting a fire in a fireplace. Sometimes, though, accidents can occur and a fire can flare up. In the event of a fire breakout, you'll want to keep a fire extinguisher on the premises to prevent things from getting too out of control. In order to operate a fire extinguisher, the National Fire Association suggests remembering the word PASS:

Pull the pin. Hold the nozzle pointing away from you and release the locking mechanism

Aim low. Point the extinguisher at the base of the fire

Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly.

Sweep the nozzle from side to side.

Read the instructions on the fire extinguisher and become familiar with them before a fire breaks out. Remember, extinguishers do have limitations. It is also important to ensure you have the correct type of extinguisher for your facility. Remember, knowledge can stand between you and an incident that can threaten your home or business.

SERVPRO and You: Keeping Your Business Problem-Free

2/8/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO helps your commercial business out with upkeep and repair!

When it comes to servicing commercial properties, there is no restoration company that exceeds SERVPRO. Throughout the Kaufman community and surrounding areas, we work closely with commercial businesses to ensure a less stressful environment for you and your customers. We take care of water, fire, and mold damage in places such as small businesses, restaurants, office buildings, and large production operations.

HOW DO WE HELP YOU?

When you're operating your business, any damages that occur as a result of an accident can add unwanted stress. Some examples of this include:

• Burst pipe, sewage overflow, or weather event
• Fire/smoke damage in your place of business
• Signs of growth on surfaces and walls
• Odor control

At SERVPRO of Kaufman County/Cedar Creek Lake, we strive to provide fast, friendly service so we can get you back on track and back in business. We service commercial and residential spaces, so feel free to call us if you ever have any events!

Preventing Commercial Water Damage

7/14/2021 (Permalink)

We'll get the job done, faster than the competition.

Commercial water damage restoration is one of the last things any company wants to deal with. Here at SERVPRO Kaufman County & Cedar Creek, we have seen the havoc that can be wreaked on a business by water. We hope you are never affected, but if you are, our experts have compiled some tips to help minimize the damage and the cost of mitigation. 

Taking these simple steps ahead of time can save your business valuable time, and money:

• Maintain constant awareness of impending calamities – Knowing what might happen is always a good thing. When the weather stations warn that a storm is on its way, it's important to know how much wind and rain the storm will bring. Knowing as much as you can about weather disasters will help you prepare for any potential water damage.
• Many businesses have sandbags on hand, which they may stack around the outside of the building to prevent water from coming inside.
• If severe winds and rain are forecast, companies also board up windows and doors. This method can also help to prevent commercial water damage from damaged windows.
• Find all of the shut-off valves for all water sources ahead of time and show them to employees (if you have any) – Pipes can freeze, shatter, or burst if some portions of the business structure are not adequately insulated, allowing water to leak into the business and cause damage. Shutting down the valves when you detect a potential problem will help you save your organization further damage, as well as money.
• Inventory and important paperwork can also be harmed by flooding. Keep inventory and other valuables on shelves and in a secure location where water cannot reach them in the event of a storm. 
• Important documentation or other comparable objects should also be kept safe - waterproof containers are ideal! Roofs can leak, hot water heaters can leak, air conditioners can leak, and sprinkler systems can create commercial water damage for businesses when they are activated.

For more information, or if you need assistance with water damage at your business or home, SERVPRO Kaufman County & Cedar Creek is ready to help. Call 972-329-4747 anytime, and our expert team will asses your loss and make a plan to get your company up and running quickly.

10 Things You Didn't Know About Commercial Water Damage

7/7/2021 (Permalink)

Rain is no fun, especially when it impacts your business.

Your building is your most valuable asset as a business owner. Unfortunately, you can't always avoid disasters like pipe bursts, frozen plumbing lines, backed up drains, or floods, no matter how hard you try to make your commercial property safe. SERVPRO Kaufman County & Cedar Creek's professionals want to make sure you have the information you need to keep your facility safe against water damage. If the worst occurs, use the following water damage facts to help secure your building. Each commercial structure is unique, but all are vulnerable to water damage. Even a little roof or pipe leak might result in unwelcome water infiltration and lower your property's value. The following are ten water damage facts that every business owner should be aware of: 1. WATER DAMAGE ACCIDENTS MAY BE PREVENTED WITH MAINTENANCE.
Make it a practice to evaluate specific aspects of your building on a frequent basis. Inspections of gutters, the roof, plumbing lines, and drains are examples of commercial water damage preventative maintenance duties. Have a professional evaluate your building once or twice a year if necessary to verify everything is in working order. 2. EXISTING LEAKS CAN LEAD TO MAJOR PROBLEMS, EVEN IF THEY ARE SMALL.
Minor plumbing issues, if ignored, can result in major water damage. Your insurance company may not pay the costs of typical wear and tear if you don't maintain your plumbing properly. 3. WATER CONTAMINATION COMES IN MANY FORMS.
White water, gray water, and black water are the three types of water contamination. Depending on the type of water contamination, the necessary clean-up and safety practices for commercial water damage differ. As a result, it's better to entrust water extraction, cleanup, and restoration to the experts. 4. A SEPARATE FLOOD INSURANCE POLICY MAY BE REQUIRED.
Water and flood damage are covered by several insurance policies. If you reside in a flood-prone area, you may need to buy a separate flood insurance policy. To find out if you require more coverage, contact your insurance agent. 5. CONTACT YOUR INSURANCE COMPANY IMMEDIATELY IF WATER DAMAGE OCCURS.
When business water damage occurs, contact your insurance carrier as soon as possible so that your agent may begin filing a claim. The firm may also be able to walk you through the first measures you'll need to take to secure your property. 6. TIMELINESS IS ESSENTIAL
When your property is threatened by water damage, understanding how to address the situation quickly can make all the difference. You can assist prevent future harm if you understand the basics of what to do after it occurs. 7. EXTRACTION IS THE MOST EFFECTIVE WAY TO PREVENT WATER DAMAGE.
Excess water can cause costly structural damage to your building if not addressed immediately. After a big leak, flood, or other problem, an experienced restoration firm like SERVPRO knows how to minimize the amount of water damage that occurs. Hiring a professional to remove all water ensures that even hidden moisture beneath the floors or in the walls is removed effectively. 8. VARIOUS MATERIALS REQUIRE VARIOUS CLEANING PROTOCOLS
Some materials, such as concrete and hard surfaces, may be recoverable after water damage, while others, such as ceiling tiles and cellulose insulation, may need to be destroyed totally. With these instructions from the Environmental Protection Agency, you may learn more about water damage mold prevention measures for various sorts of materials (EPA). 9. PROBLEMS MAY CONTINUE AFTER THE WATER HAS DISAPPEARED.
Moisture can hide in walls and beneath floors even after the water has been removed, eventually leading to mold development. To ensure that mold isn't growing or spreading throughout your property, have a mold prevention specialist evaluate it. 10. MOLD EXPANDS QUICKLY
Mold can grow in as little as 24 to 48 hours after water damage has occurred. To limit the possibility of mold growth, excess water, moisture, and humid environments should be addressed immediately.GET IN TOUCH WITH SERVPRO'S EXPERTS.
In the event of a water disaster, contact the experts at SERVPRO Kaufman County & Cedar Creek. We know how to handle all of the difficulties that come with water damage restoration, and our highly educated and knowledgeable technicians are eager to get your business back on track. We're devoted to recovering your facility as quickly as possible, and we're available 24/7, 365 days a year. To learn more about our water damage services, give us a call now.

Winter Storm Repairs: Let us help your business.

3/23/2021 (Permalink)

Always here to help.

Hundreds of businesses were impacted last month by what experts are describing as a “deadly” winter storm. Record low temperatures, dangerous snow and ice brought Central Texas screeching to a halt in an unprecedented mid-February freeze.

With hundred-car crashes and statewide infrastructure straining to handle the weather, it’s no surprise our neighboring businesses are still struggling with the aftermath. With an extensive network of over 1700 franchises, the SERVPRO team across the grid has mobilized to help keep our promise to be there for our community in times of need.

A check on usoutage.net showed over 400 million in Texas were without power, and this includes many businesses. Lack of heat has left many vulnerable, as well as their commercial buildings. Our SERVPRO Kaufman County/Cedar Creek office has been working around the clock to mobilize teams to units that have lost power and subsequently heat, and experienced burst pipes and other plumbing issues leading to flooding and water damage.

We hope your business never needs us, but if you do, SERVPRO Kaufman County/Cedar Creek is ready to help. We understand time is of the essence. If you experience damage at your business or commercial building due to the weather, your first move should be to safely limit damage (turn off water at the main - if you don’t know where this is for your building, find out today), call your insurance company, and then call your friends at SERVPRO Kaufman County/Cedar Creek and we’ll take it from here.

We know how important it is to protect your assets to minimize loss, and get you up and running again. Our team will dispatch quickly and bring expert knowledge, the latest and best equipment and a positive attitude, to provide you with a comprehensive plan that is auctioned fast, to get you back to work. 

Whatever the weather, day or night, our teams are ready to help. Our company motto is “Like it never even happened,” and we’ll restore your business to that standard while providing you with the highest customer service and as much peace of mind as we can offer. If your business is in trouble, call SERVPRO Kaufman County/Cedar Creek today. 

Preventing Commercial Water Loss

1/22/2021 (Permalink)

Our equipment, paired with SERVPRO expertise, is tested and proven to get the job done in a timely, efficient manner.

Water damage is always stressful to deal with, and even more so when it's your business that's affected. Damage to your business spells a direct impact on profits, and whatever service or products you provide, all business owners want to avoid this. 

Damaging equipment and documents, property, and keeping you closed down, are all ways water damage hinders your operation. 

At SERVPRO Kaufman County & Cedar Creek, we understand that time is of the essence, and that every moment you are battling water damage, is a moment you are not working. We are eager to see our neighbors and fellow businesses in Mesquite thriving. We hope you never need our help to deal with water damage, but if you do, we've got your back. 

Our experts also took some time to compile this list of their very best tips for preventing water damage to your commercial building. 

Broken pipes are a leading cause of commercial water leaks. Don't turn a blind eye to damp, water spots, mold, musty smells, cracking floors, and other indicators that moisture is getting where it should not. If your water bill suddenly spikes, investigate immediately, as a broken pipe could be leaking water into your precious business without your knowledge. 

Roof leaks are another common cause of commercial water damage. Keep your roof regularly inspected by a professional, and commit to maintaining your gutters. All twigs, leaves, and other debris should be cleared from them regularly. If they become clogged water cannot flow away from the roof, which can lead to it creating an alternative pathway down through your building. It's also important to keep trees and shrubs trimmed back away from your roof to avoid them creating roof damage, which could allow water inside.

Similarly, windows can permit water to enter. Check them often as any unsealed windows can allow rain, snow and other moistures inside. Resealing windows is fairly straightforward, and can save time and money down the road. 

Check your HVAC system and schedule routine maintenance. As your system ages cracks and leaks are not uncommon, but all of these can allow moisture to escape into the structure of your commercial building. 

Invest in a flood detector. If the worst happens and water is entering your business, a detection system could help you get it stopped before it has time to do extensive damage. For many commercial properties, these systems are well worth the investment.

By being proactive and staying up to date on maintenance, it is possible to greatly lower the risk of water damaging your business. 

In the event the worst happens, we're ready at SERVPRO Kaufman County & Cedar Creek to show you why our company motto is "Like it never even happened." When you give us a call, our experts are dispatched quickly to assess your individual site and damage, and create a plan to act fast and efficiently, to restore your business to full working order.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned. Why Businesses are Raising the Bar in 2021.

1/14/2021 (Permalink)

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is the newest standard of clean.

When looking back at the devastation that 2020 wrought, it’s easy to see why businesses in 2021 are ringing in the new year with resolutions that adhere to a higher standard of clean. After all, at every turn there is another travesty written in the headlines, and they all sound a lot like, yet another loss due to COVID-19. The public has responded in large by receding to the safety of their homes, venturing out only for the strictly necessary. 

And when the ‘strictly necessary’ rears its head, community members enter the world again scrutinizing the places they enter for at least the bare minimum of sanitary measures. Masks, frequent surface-wiping, gloves, hand sanitizers and the like, are all necessary to slow the spread of deadly COVID-19 until vaccinations become widely available, but these measures are only just scratching the surface of the depth of response this pandemic needs. The savvy business owner recognizes this for what it is: A duty to their patrons. 

Cleanliness is a duty to the public, to business patrons and their families alike. And it is vital to keeping your business healthy in 2021. After all, studies reveal that 71% of people expect businesses to be cleaner than their homes-- and  64% of people are more likely to enter a business if it is sporting a decal which states it has been professionally cleaned. 

That’s where SERVPRO Kaufman County/Cedar Creek can help. 

Responding during difficult times is what we do, it’s who we are and what we know. Right now, during this most unprecedented moment we share with you, we continue to answer the calls of our neighbors who need us most. What we offer is not just standard janitorial cleaning, it’s proactive virus pathogen cleaning. When you choose Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you’re choosing peace of mind, and a higher standard of clean. You’re choosing safety and better business. 

You’re choosing your community.

Viruses, Bacteria, and Your Business

1/8/2021 (Permalink)

SERPVRO professional fogging a client's living area - to eliminate the risk of dangerous pathogens in this room contaminating visitors.

Both viruses and bacteria are pathogens, more commonly known as ‘germs’. They can both cause
illness and infection, making them a serious health hazard for your business. While they are both germs, bacteria and viruses behave, reproduce and infect us differently - this means they require different preventative measures, modes of cleaning and treatments. Understanding the differences and working with experts is crucial in keeping your facility safe for employees and customers alike, whether you’re facing the aftermath of a sewage back up, or the COVID-19 pandemic.

Bacteria are living organisms made of a single cell. The human body has trillions of beneficial
bacteria, but many types of harmful bacteria also exist. Staphylococcus aureus, which causes staph
infections, Escherichia coli, aka E. coli, and Salmonella are examples of harmful bacteria.
Viruses are organic particles with some genetic material, meaning that unlike bacteria, they aren’t living cells and cannot reproduce without a host, or something to infect. Viruses are responsible for a wide array of diseases including COVID-19, Flu, Rabies, and more.

Both bacteria and viruses generally prefer warm, moist places, with bacteria favoring porous
surfaces like fabric and food, while viruses prefer hard surfaces like countertops. The time these
germs live on these transmission surfaces varies greatly from hours to days, though even a small
window is enough for high transmission. Door knobs, pens, touch screens and keyboards, as well as break room items like microwaves and fridges, bathrooms and vending machines, all play host to pathogens, and allow for fast transmission to clients and employees alike. This type of spreading is contact transmission, where touching or contacting something then infects a person with the pathogen.

Bacteria and viruses can also spread in other ways, such as airborne transmission, sprays or
splashes from coughs or sneezes, and blood borne transmission through cuts or abrasions. Since pathogen transmission can happen in so many ways, thorough cleaning is the best defense for your business.

How To Protect Your Business From Bacteria and Viruses

Bacteria on surfaces can be fought with cleaning solutions like soap and water or multipurpose
cleaners, which can remove them from surfaces (though they don’t kill them). Antibacterial agents
that target bacteria to keep them from growing and reproducing, effectively ending their life cycle, can also be used.

While there are many broad antibiotic drugs, antiviral drugs are much less common. Outside of the body, it is possible to remove viruses with cleaning and disinfecting techniques, though it is more difficult. It’s important to use disinfectants that are registered with the EPA to kill viruses.
Protecting your business involves cleaning and disinfecting regularly and thoroughly. SERVPRO
Kaufman County’s decontamination and disinfection specialists are equipped to help keep your workplace safe from infectious diseases such as COVID-19.

Regular cleaning is critical to stopping the spread of infectious illness, whether at home or at the
workplace. Contacting trained decontamination experts to thoroughly clean and disinfect your
business is the safest way to get the job done.

Winterize Your Spigots!

12/16/2020 (Permalink)

Burst and frozen water from a faucet.

Winter is upon us, and with it comes the added fire-hazards closely associated with the holidays. After all, chestnuts roasting over an open fire, warm space heaters and stove-top popcorn all come with an added risk—a very, very hot added risk. And while most people begin to take extra precautions to prevent their homes against fire hazards, many forget to insulate themselves against water-damage in the cold, wintery months. SERVPRO Mesquite is here with some sage advice: Winterize your spigots!

It’s an easy fix that can prevent a lot of damage to your home or property. Water tends to expand and freeze in faucets, which can lead to cracking, and a major leak or flood! Insulated faucet covers can be found at Home Depot, Lowes, on Amazon, and at other chain stores that provide home goods. Below is a quick guide to installing your faucet cover.

1. Disconnect Hoses. This is one of the first and most important steps. Disconnecting your hoses, splitters, and other fittings will prevent water from become trapped in a faucet, and will prevent the damaging freeze from damaging it.
2. Inspect Spigots. The next step is to inspect your spigots for any damage or leaks. If you find a leak, a crack, or drips, repair the affected fixture before the freeze sets in and damages your spigot further.
3. Drain spigots and pipes. Getting as much water out of the pipes as possible is the next step. This can be achieved by shutting off the line via the interior shut-off valve associated with that spigot, and leaving the spigot open for a few hours, assuring that the line drains and all water is clear from the line.
4. Install Outdoor Faucet Covers. No faucet cover is exactly the same, but regardless of whatever brand you pick, they are usually a simple, insulated fixture that isn’t overly-complicated to install. Follow the protocol associated with your product. Ensuring your faucets and spigots are insulated against the cold is the best way to prevent water damage.

But, as always, if you happen to run into fire or water damage during the holiday season, SERVPRO is here to help! Give us a call, no matter the hour, and we’ll get your home or property back to, “Like it never even happened.”

Be Prepared With the Help of Technology

7/14/2020 (Permalink)

Technology can now be a vital tool in preparing for emergencies or disasters, as well as during or after to stay informed of the situation and in communication with others. From common technology you already use on a day-to-day basis to taking a few extra steps to prepare, the following will help you be ready in the event of an emergency.

Store Information Online

There are many places to store important information securely online. Services like Google Drive and Dropbox offer free ways to store different types of files, from a word document to images of important documents. Ready.gov suggests saving an electronic version of insurance policies, identification documents, medical records, and information on your pets, if necessary.

Follow The News

Stay informed by following agencies such as FEMA, local news channels, and local government on Twitter for the most up-to-date information in a disaster situation. You can also alert first responders if a rescue is needed through Twitter.

Mark Yourself safe

The American Red Cross offers a safe & Well check-in site to list yourself as safe or find family and friends in a situation where communication is difficult to establish.

Facebook also has a feature called Safety Check that is activated after natural disasters or a crisis. You will receive a notification from Facebook if you're located in the affected area at that time.

Get In Touch

Make sure your contact information is up-to-date in your phone and e-mail for communication with family, friends, business contacts, and others whom you may need to get in contact with before, during, or after a disaster.

Charge Up

Keep a portable charger in your car and home in case of an emergency. You may need to recharge this from time to time, but you can also buy solar-powered chargers as well.

Get an Emergency Ready Profile

SERVPRO is proud to offer Emergency Ready Profiles (ERP) for free at ready.SERVPRO.com to help prepare you, your property, or your business for an emergency.

By developing a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile for your property or business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your property or business.

Put help int he palm of your hand with the Ready Plan App. Get in touch with you local SERVPRO Franchise Professional today for more information on developing an ERP for your property or business, and SERVPRO will be there to help make it "Like it never even happened." 

The Do's and Don'ts of Water Damage

7/14/2020 (Permalink)

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. Below are a list of things you should and shouldn't do until help arrives!  

DO

• Shut off the source of water if possible or contact a qualified party to stop the water source
• Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building, when access to the power distribution panel is safe from electrical shock.
• Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting.
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removing lamps and tabletop items. 
• Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying.
• place Aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpet.
• Remove to a safe, dry place any paintings, art objects, computers, documents and other materials that are valuable or sensitive to moisture.
•  Use wooden clothespin to keep furniture skirting off damp floors.
• Hang draperies with coated hangers to avoid contact with wet carpeting or floors.
• Hang furs an leather goods to dry separately at room temperature.

DON'T

• Enter rooms with standing water where electrical shock hazards may exist
• Enter affected areas if electrical outlets, switches, circuit breakers or electrical equipment are exposed to water. Always avoid electrical shock hazards.
• Leave books, newspapers, magazines, or other colored items on wet carpets or floors to cause straining.
• Leave Oriental rugs or other colored rugs on wet wall-to-wall carpets to cause staining.
• Use your household vacuum to remove water, possibly causing electrical shock or damage to the vacuum cleaner.
• Use TV's or other appliances while standing on wet carpets or floors, especially not on wet concrete floors.
• Turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet or enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water.

http://www.SERVPROkaufmancountycedarcreek.com/water-damage-restoration

Using a Portable Fire Extinguisher

1/16/2020 (Permalink)

A portable fire extinguisher can be a life and property saving tool when used correctly. In order to operate an extinguisher, the National Fire Association suggests remembering the word PASS:

Pull the pin. Hold the nozzle pointing away from you and release the locking mechanism

Aim low. Point the extinguisher at the base of the fire

Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly.

Sweep the nozzle from side to side.

Read the instructions on the fire extinguisher and become familiar with them before a fire breaks out. Remember, extinguishers do have limitations. It is also important to ensure you have the correct type of extinguisher for your facility. Refer to the back of this brochure to learn more about the different classes of extinguishers and the type of fire each are designed to extinguish. 

Are Your Ducts in Order?

1/14/2020 (Permalink)

Are Your Ducts in Order?

Did you know, your ventilation system is often the biggest culprit in poor indoor air quality? Inspecting the ductwork in your facility or home should be a high priority. In most cases, the HVAC system has been operating for some time without much attention. Dirty ducts can circulate odors, contaminants such as mold, and irritating dust throughout your building or home.

A routine part of SERVPRO of Kaufman County/ Cedar Creek Professional services is inspecting the heating, ventilation and air conditioning unit (HVAC). Keeping the HVAC and ductwork clean can potentially extend the life span of the equipment by allowing it to operate at peak condition, which may help save you money. Duct cleaning may not always be necessary. SERVPRO of Kaufman County/ Cedar Creek professionals will inspect your HVAC system and ductwork and make recommendations about the best way to address any indoor air quality concerns. This inspection can help save you money and provide peace of mind on the health of your HVAC system and ductwork.

In some circumstances, such as after fire, smoke or suspected mold growth, duct cleaning becomes an essential part of the cleanup process. In these cases, SERVPRO of Kaufman County/ Cedar Creek professionals can often restore the HVAC system and ductwork to pre-damage condition.

If you have a fuel burning furnace, stove or fireplace, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends they be inspected for proper functioning, and be serviced before each heating season to protect against carbon monoxide poisoning.

The SERVPRO Duct Cleaning System is proven and cost efficient. Unlike the majority of duct cleaning services, SERVPRO of Kaufman County/ Cedar Creek professionals use a portable ventilation and air duct cleaning system to examine ductwork and make a clean sweep, removing years of dust and grime.

• The process begins by using patented equipment including a roto-scraper, which automatically adapts to the duct’s shape and diameter while traveling through the duct, removing debris and filth before vacuuming begins.

• Next, a powerful push-pull air delivery and collection system transfers the debris from the ducting to a 16-gallon container.

• Air is filtered through a HEPA filtration system, removing 99.97 percent of the particles in the airstream. HEPA filters capture debris and keep the indoor environment clean.

• As an optional process, a sealant or coating product may be sprayed to address odor or microbial concerns.

• Filters will either be cleaned or replaced to remove odor and dirt.

For more information on duct cleaning, or to schedule an appointment, contact SERVPRO of Kaufman County/ Cedar Creek professionals today!

2020 Resolution Plan Ahead

1/14/2020 (Permalink)

With each new year, many people resolve to better themselves or some part of their life. This year, make a resolution to be READY. No one ever plans on a disaster or a water damage or fire damage to strike, but you can prepare for it. The SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile (ERP) will help you ensure your business is "Ready for whatever happens" in 2020.

In the event of an emergency, the ERP can help minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action in place for your facility. The ERP is a comprehensive document containing critical information about your business, including emergency contacts, shut-off valve locations, and priority areas. The ERP also establishes SERVPRO of Kaufman county/ Cedar Creek professional team as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider, giving you access to more than 50 years of experience and a system of more than 1700 franchises strong. The ERP is a no-cost assessment; all it requires is a little time, making it a great value that could save you time and money in the future.

Preparation is key to making it through any size disaster, whether it is a small water damage, a large fire damage, or an area floor. Having a plan in place may help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive and get you back in your building faster following a disaster. Don't wait until disaster strikes- resolve to be READY by contacting SERVPRO of Kaufman County/ Cedar Creek professionals today to establish your Emergency READY Profile and be "Ready for whatever happens" in 2020. 

Emergency Ready Program

12/12/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kaufman County/Cedar Creek utilizes the latest technology in order to expedite the mitigation process further increasing our value to our customers. The SERVPRO Ready Plan is a tool for property managers and owners, both residential and commercial. It allows for the creation of an Emergency READY Profile. By developing a SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile for your home or business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your home or business.

Preparation is the key to making it through any sized disaster, whether it is a large fire or area flood, or just a minor water leak.  Having an Emergency READY Plan may help minimize the time your business is inactive, and get you back in the building following a disaster.

SERVPRO of Kaufman County/Cedar Creek has restoration experts available 24 hours a day to get your business back up and running.  Our expertise includes restoration services for fire and water damage, including electronics restoration and document drying.  We are also your business’s best resource for mold mitigation and removal.  

Call your local SERVPRO of Kaufman County/Cedar Creek at (972) 524-3894 to help with your Emergency READY Profile, and be “Ready for Whatever Happens” in 2019

May is National Building Safety Month

3/28/2019 (Permalink)

Building Safety Month is in its 39th year- is an initiative of the International Code Council (ICC) and their 64,000 members across the world, as well as their partners in building construction and design and the safety community. Building safety Month is an opportunity to educate insurance and commercial property professionals, as well as the general public, on "what it takes to create safe, resilient, affordable, and energy-efficient homes and buildings," according to the ICC website.

The theme for 2018 is Building Codes save Lives with a focus on safer communities over the five weeks in May. 

One of the topics highlighted during the third week of the month is Protecting Communities from Disasters.

The general public may not be aware how codes and code officials "improve and protect the places where we live, learn, work, worship, and play," and this month can certain improve that awareness and educate communities on this topic!

Important Tips From The ICC

• If you live in a high wind or hurricane-prone area and do not have tested and code-approved shutters for protection from wind-borne debris, consider temporarily protecting your doors and windows by mounting exterior grade, 7/16' minimum thickness plywood and fastening it into place. Visit www.flash.org for detailed instructions on how to use plywood for emergency board-up.
• Consider building or retrofitting to create a tornado- safe room in your home . Follow ICC/NSSA 500 standard for detailed construction information and to ensure you achieve the highest level of protection for your family.
• In wildfire prone areas, remove fine (dead grass, leaves, etc.) and coarse (dead twigs, branches, etc.) fuels within 30 feet of a building to create a survivable space in case of wildfire. Be sure to remove dry leaf and pine litter from roofs, rain gutters, decks, and walkways. Follow ICC's International Wildland-Urban Interface Code for detailed requirements.
• Flooded roads could have significant damage hidden by floodwaters or on flooded roads. Do not attempt to cross a flowing stream. It takes only six inches of fast-slowing water to sweep you off your feet and two feet of water to move an SUV-sized vehicle.