Avoid Candle Fires in your Home With warm light and pleasant fragrances, candles can be an easy way to create the atmosphere that you want in your home. However, they can also become a safety hazard if not used properly. Candle fires are common, but the following tips can help you avoid them.
1. Never Leave Burning Candles Unattended
It may seem like an annoyance to extinguish a candle every time you leave the room. However, leaving it burning could result in a candle fire if something gets too close to the flame or if it burns too low. It is best to blow out candles before going to sleep as well, even if you are in the same room.
2. Always Keep Them Out of Reach of Pets and Children
Both children and pets often come with an excess of energy and curiosity. For this reason, it can be easy for them to inadvertently start a candle fire. Keep burning candles in an area that is not within reach, and do not leave them unsupervised.
3. Keep Them Away From Any Flammable Items
When you are using a candle, you should be sure to have the area free of flammable objects. This can include papers as well as fabrics such as curtains and bedding. These types of items should be at least a foot away from any candles that are in use. Flammable liquids should be kept even further away.
4. Use an Alternative to Candles
Perhaps the easiest way to prevent a fire is simply not to use candles at all. There are a variety of other ways that you can achieve a more relaxing home environment. If you are only interested in adding a pleasant scent to your home, a wax warmer is a great option. You can also buy battery-operated flameless candles that look and smell like the real thing.
While these tips can help you prevent an emergency, accidents can still occur. Whether it is small or large, fires often require smoke cleanup and some repairs. If this happens, SERVPRO can help return your home to its previous condition.
Even minimal water damages have the potential to cause serious structural and indoor air quality issues over time.
The key to avoiding costly future restoration is to handle every water problem as a real threat to your property. SERVPRO has the equipment, training, and experience to find and dry unseen water before secondary damages occur. The proper equipment makes a measurable difference in reducing the damage expense during a fire or water loss. When time matters, technology, and equipment must be counted on to perform. SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate & Tunica Counties will answer your call with rapid action and a full arsenal of drying equipment.
Here are a few of the tools we use.
Moisture Sensors are used to detect moisture in carpets, baseboards, and walls.
Thermo hygrometers measure temperature and relative humidity. When armed with this information, we can calculate and create an environment most conducive to drying. When facing a contaminated water loss, it is not only important to dry the structure, but the structure must also be disinfected and often deodorized.
Moisture Meters are used to determine the actual moisture content of various materials. The moisture tester provides accurate readings, allowing SERVPRO to monitor the drying process.
Thermal Foggers dispense solvent-based products by creating a dense fog. The fog consists of tiny particles of deodorant solution that attach to and neutralize odor-causing particles.
Ultra Low-Volume (ULV) Foggers will atomize liquid deodorizing agents, producing a fine mist that can easily penetrate the site where odor-causing residues may accumulate.
The bottom line is that SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate & Tunica Counties has the training and equipment to help make it “Like it never even happened.”
Where there is moisture there is mold. Don't wait when you find unwanted water call SERVPRO!
Mold is a type of fungus that consists of small organisms found nearly everywhere. It can be black, white, orange, purple, or green. Mold thrives on moisture and reproduces utilizing tiny, lightweight spores that travel through the air. When mold is growing on a surface, spores can be released into the air where they can be easily inhaled.
The exact number of mold species is still unknown, scientists estimate that there are thousands. Many of them can affect your home and business.
Here are three of the most common kinds of mold and how they are identified.
1. Aspergillus
Aspergillus is frequently found wherever dust accumulates and spreads to areas like floors, wallpapers, and air filters. It typically has a brown or dark green color and certain species are also found on food.
2. Cladosporium
Cladosporium colonies can grow in bathrooms, basements, and on any wooden surface. Typically, you can spot this type of mold by its green or brown color. This mold is possible to remove by yourself but calling qualified mold experts can assist in its disposal.
3. Stachybotrys
Stachybotrys earned its nickname, black mold, through its distinctive greenish-black and gel-like appearance. It is frequently found where moisture dwells such as in restrooms or on walls in rooms that have experienced flooding.
Safeguarding against potential fire hazards will significantly reduce the likelihood of a fire affecting your home and family. Make fire prevention and safety a priority in your home.
Install a smoke alarm on every level of your home and test it monthly.
Prevent electrical fires by never overloading circuits or extension cords.
Use appliances only as directed by the manufacturer. Unplug appliances when not in use.
Keep portable heaters at least three feet away from anything combustible.
Keep the fire in the fireplace. Use fire screens and have your chimney cleaned annually.
Install an affordable safety sprinkler system. In addition to keeping you safe, they can also increase property value and lower insurance rates.
Plan your escape. Practice your exit strategy from every room in the house.
Take the time to educate your children about the dangers of fire.
Do your Allergies have you Down? -Consider cleaning your HVAC
Contact our office today for a free no-obligation estimate at
662-349-6500.
If you are suffering from major allergies, consider having your HVAC system cleaned by SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate & Tunica Counties! Pollen and other contaminants such as cooking smells, smoke, and dust can enter your HVAC system and the smells do not leave until you properly clean your system. SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate & Tunica Counties specializes in air duct cleaning on Homes and Businesses. Our technicians are trained to handle any type of HVAC cleaning. The dust can cause major issues for adults and children. Cleaning your unit is a much more cost-effective way of keeping the pollutants out of your home. Call our office today and we will look at your system and provide you with a detailed estimate of what your home or business might need. You do not want yourself or your family living in an unhealthy environment. SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate & Tunica Counties has the professional equipment and crew to clean your HVAC system correctly! Contact our office today for a free no-obligation estimate at 662-349-6500.
The Dangers of Thunderstorms- What You Need to Know
If you have damage due to a thunderstorm, contact SERVPRO!
At SERVPRO, we understand severe weather can be stressful. Always be prepared ahead of the storm, and be sure to have alerts set up.
When you think of severe weather, tornadoes may quickly come to mind. There’s a good reason for that. While these storms are most common during the spring, they can occur at any point in our warm, humid conditions.
But while tornadoes are a weather danger to keep in mind, it’s also a good idea to pay attention to thunderstorms.
Thunderstorms are defined as any storm that involves thunder. These storms are so common we often disregard them. But high winds, lightning, hail, flooding, and other issues involved in thunderstorms can quickly turn dangerous. A thunderstorm moves into the severe category when it contains hail that is one inch or larger and straight-line winds of 58 miles per hour or more. Here is what you should know about potential thunderstorm hazards:
Damage and injury from lightning strikes. You now know that thunderstorms always involve thunder. But did you know they also always have lightning? That’s because thunder and lightning are always paired together; you won’t have one without the other, even if lightning isn’t visible. Lightning strikes cause around 300 injuries every year, and they can also contribute to property damage both from direct contact with lightning and indirect effects such as fallen trees.
Harm from flash flooding. Flash floods can occur any time there is heavy rain for a plethora of reasons—even if storm drains back up or small ditches become filled with water, heavy rain can quickly turn these things into a life-threatening flooding scenario. This presents a particular danger on the roads. If flash flood conditions are possible, it’s best to stay at home.
Property damage due to hail. When it comes to hail, there are two factors to consider: the size of the hail and the force with which it falls. These ice pellets can range in size from tiny to very large, and the bigger they are, the more dangerous they are. In severe thunderstorms, where hail is larger, pellets can propel with some force on your roof, which can cause leaks and water damage.
Thunderstorms are dangerous and can cause significant damage to homes or commercial spaces. If you have damage due to a thunderstorm, contact SERVPRO!
“Like it never even happened.”
Call your local SERVPRO today!
Below Are Five Methods that are Commonly Used:
Along with the visible damage, a fire may do to your business, there is also smoke damage to consider after the fire. If the smoke cleaning isn’t done right, it may mean years of a lingering odor. Traditional cleaning methods often aren’t enough to get rid of the smell. When you trust the restoration of your business to a fire damage and mitigation company, you can count on the most innovative equipment to be used.
Thermal Foggers
When trying to deodorize the smoke odor in a room, a thermal fogger may be used. During the process, a heated deodorizer is sprayed. Since it comes out in the form of fog, it can reach areas that traditional cleaning methods would mix. The cleaning mixture surrounds the smoke particles and absorbs them, making it an ideal neutralizing method. When this technique is used, the business will need to be evacuated.
Air Scrubbers
Designed to remove tiny pollutants from the air, scrubbers have a filtration system that takes in air and passes it through a filter, which is typically a HEPA filter. Once it goes throw, clean air is released back into the environment. As the process continues, the clean hair mingles with the smoky air to make it less dense. The speed that it works depends on the initial density, size of the room, and ventilation.
Ozone Machine
Another piece of smoke cleaning equipment used is an ozone generator. Similar to oxygen except it has three atoms instead of two, this colorless gas oxidizes odors. The ozone atoms attach to odor molecules to neutralize them. The machine breaks them down, along with odor-causing bacteria, to eradicate the smell. After a fire, charred items and layers of soot aren’t the only concern. Smoke cleaning is essential to ensure your business is back to
“Like it never even happened.”
Types of Cleaning- For Your Fire Damaged Personal Property
At SERVPRO, we use every method and tool in our inventory to restore everything possible after a fire occurs.
Cleaning Personal Property After Fire Damage
When possible, restoring a resident’s property after a fire is not just cost-efficient. It also helps lessen the personal loss to a family still dealing with watching that fire race through their home.
SERVPRO can restore most fire damage to the personal property of homeowners if flames did not heavily scorch it. Our teams use six methods to clean and restore personal property based on the type and level of damage, and the material that makes up the damaged item.
Wet Wiping
Technicians use this cleaning method for moderate-to-heavy soot and smoke residues. They use the same cloths and sponges, but also water or a mild cleaning solution. It is also our preferred choice for the property we cannot saturate with water or cleaners. In some cases, they use brushes for a better effect to remove much of the residues.
Dry Wiping
This is the first step our technicians take with almost every item. They use dusting cloths and sponges for dry surfaces with non-greasy, light-to-medium soot residues, usually a powder. If the layer of soil is very thick, they may use a commercial grade vacuum to remove it from the surface. Dry wiping is useful for other types of damage before our teams begin using other methods.
Foam Cleaning
This is similar to spray and wipe, but our teams use a pump-up bottle to force air into the liquid and apply foam. The method uses much less moisture while still applying a large amount of cleaning agent. It is our choice for cleaning upholstered furniture since too much liquid can cause the fabric to shrink and pull away from the frame.
Spray and Wipe
SERVPRO technicians use a spray bottle filled with water or a cleaner for more control over how much they use for cleaning an item. It is our first choice with curtains and drapes when there is a risk of the color fading, or running down the surface and onto carpets or floors.
Abrasive Cleaning
When the soot covers rough surfaces, like rock and marble, our technicians use a thicker cleaning agent and a variety of brushes to remove residues. For metal surfaces, they may have to use steel wool rather than a brush.
Immersion Cleaning
This is our choice for items with very thick residues and when other methods do not work. We immerse them in a tank containing water or a cleaning agent and then use sound waves to agitate the entire surface area with thousands of cleaning bubbles. It is exceptionally effective, even on items that absorbed a large number of residues over time.
Cleaning and restoring personal property is not a quick process. At SERVPRO, we use every method and tool in our inventory to restore everything possible after a fire.
If you are a homeowner or business owner knowing where the most common water damage areas are can be very beneficial to you when disaster strikes.
SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate & Tunica Counties is always Here to Help when disaster strikes. Every home and property has unique challenges when it comes to extracting water and drying out the structure.
These four water-damaged areas of the most common areas and why they prove to be so difficult.
Attic Space
Attic spaces can be hard to get equipment into and may have electrical hazards. Oftentimes attic spaces require that insulation is removed to properly dry the space.
Duct Work
Some duct systems made of fragile and porous materials make it difficult to dry and set up drying equipment.
Basements
Many basements are unfinished with lots of porous materials that would need disposing of due to possible contamination in water.
No matter the space or the cause of damage, SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate & Tunica Counties is always Here to Help when disaster strikes. We have crews who are on call 24/7 because we know that when disaster strikes there is no time to wait.
Crawlspace
Crawlspace may be hard to work in and place drying equipment into.
Low temperatures can make it difficult to warm the space and properly dry it.
Call your local SERVPRO today!
662-349-6500
Oh No! Help- My Commercial Toilet Won’t Stop Flushing
Commercial toilets are quite different from the ones in your home. Bathrooms meant for public use typically use a tankless type of flushing system called a flushometer. These types tend to prevent a toilet overflow more effectively than toilets with a tank, but there are also some disadvantages.
Advantages and Disadvantages
The flushometer has some benefits compared to the tank type:
The high pressure of the water cleans the bowl better.
No time is required to fill a tank.
The force of the water dislodges all but the worst clogs.
One disadvantage is that it requires a larger than normal water supply line to function. Another is that it can spread germs more easily due to a phenomenon called a toilet plume. However, if they break and cause an overflow, you need a licensed commercial plumber to inspect the damage, fix the valve, and clean up any sewer water that spilled out.
How a Flushometer Works
In a typical toilet, when you depress the handle, gravity causes the tank to empty, pulling the water in the bowl down through suction. This works very well in most cases, but it does tend to clog if there is a lot of bulk in the bowl, potentially causing a toilet flood.
The flushometer system has no tank, helping to prevent toilet overflow. When the handle is depressed, it lifts a gasket that’s keeping the water pressure balanced inside the mechanism, creating a sudden, large pressure differential. This causes a blast of clean water to create the siphon necessary to flush the bowl.
How To Fix a Flushometer
If the flushometer won’t shut off, you’ll need to manually close the valve to the toilet. There will either be a slot for a flat-blade screwdriver or a hexagonal head that requires a wrench.
However, there’s also a hexagonal head on top of the mechanism. Don’t open this while trying to stop a toilet from running! The shut-off valve will always face horizontal, not vertical. Once this is turned off, you have time to call a professional who can fix the mechanism.
The flushometer system is very low maintenance and helps prevent a toilet overflow. Once you’ve learned how to shut off the water flow in an emergency, it should give you many years of trouble-free use.
Has a Storm Damaged The Basement of Your Home? 4 Steps to Take When Your Home Basement Is Flooded
Unfortunately, many homeowners have experienced a basement flood at one time or another. If you have standing water down there, it is vital to know how to deal with it. Before you begin the cleanup process, follow these steps.
1. Shut Off the Electricity
Before anything else, you want to shut off the electricity and power to the basement. Not doing so could lead to injuries, so take every precaution possible. If you are unsure of how to do this, it is best to call a water damage specialist.
2. Find the Source
If the basement flood was caused by rainfall, you can go ahead and begin the cleanup process. Otherwise, you need to find the source. To prevent any more contamination to the area, you should shut off the water. Once you have located the cause, you either need to fix it yourself or call a professional to come help.
3. Remove the Water
Getting rid of the water can take time. What you use depends on how badly the room was flooded. Sump pumps or pool pumps can be effective. If there is only a small amount of liquid on the ground, you may even be able to use a mop.
4. Call Your Insurance Company
You want to check on what type of insurance coverage you have after an ordeal like this. Oftentimes the company is more likely to pay if the problem is treated quickly and was not caused by negligence on your part. Using a trusted business to help with the cleanup may also help you get a better payout.
It is important to remember that a basement flood can be extremely dangerous. Take the utmost care when handling the damage yourself. If you feel at all uncomfortable or unsafe, call SERVPRO!
Did you know that hurricane season is June 1st- November 30th? We want to ensure our community is well prepared and informed of what to do in case the storms get way out of hand. To keep you and your loved ones are safe during this upcoming storm season, read along for these tips on what to do to be storm safe:
Know Your Risks: One the most important things you can do is understand how susceptible your area is to hurricane weather. Being informed of the likelihood of a hurricane and if your area is at risk by keeping up to date with weather announcement and local and governments
Build an Emergency Kit: This one sounds simple, but it is often overlooked. Keeping an emergency kit that is stocked with water, canned foods, non perishables, and comfort items such as blankets and toys could be the difference between a disaster and an inconvenience.
Review And Gather Documents: Review your policies ahead of time to see what is covered and if flood insurance is available to you. Gather important documents such as insurance policies, IDs, birth certificates, deeds, or even sentimental documents and keep them in a fireproof and waterproof safe.
Be Informed: Knowing where to go and who to call is key to staying safe. Having an evacuation plan in place in the event of a disaster ensure members of your household know what to do in case home isn’t the safest place to be. Have a planned route and an alternate route to get to a safe place away from the storm.
Strengthen Your Home: Taking a look around your property to see if you are vulnerable in the event of a hurricane is a key factor in minimizing your risk of damage. By looking for vulnerable areas, you’ll be able to address them and fortify and susceptible areas around the home or property.
Implementing these tips will help you face this hurricane season and minimize the risk of your property being a victim of the elements. Keep SERVPRO in mind for all your storm damage restoration needs.
When disaster strikes your home, Property Insurance, is supposed to be there to help you pick up the pieces. Most of the time, it does.
A Bankrate survey found that 81 percent were aware flooding is not covered by regular homeowners insurance. You may have heard earthquakes also require special coverage. Yet you may not know that there are other types of damage that are excluded from most policies as well:
Mold
At least 1,000 species of mold are common to the United States, according to the New York-based trade group the Insurance Information Institute.
Despite the threat, a standard homeowners insurance policy generally either limits coverage for mold damage or outright excludes it.
Some insurers offer an endorsement to expand coverage limits for mold claims but only if you are willing to pay more for your insurance, she says.
The best cure for mold is to prevent it from growing in the first place. If the basement floods after a rainstorm or a pipe is leaking, eliminate the moisture promptly.
Sewer backup
America’s sewer lines are rapidly aging, with some more than 100 years old. As more homes have been connected to these out-of-date lines, sewage backups have followed.
Other sources of backups include pipelines that handle both stormwater and raw sewage — and become overwhelmed in rainstorms — and blockages from tree roots that work their way into sewer-line cracks.
When a sewer backs up into a home, it can damage floors, walls, furniture and electrical systems. Standard homeowners insurance does not cover sewer backups.
The Insurance Information Institute says sewer-backup damage often can be covered for an additional premium of just $40 to $50 per year.
Sinkholes
Sinkholes can seem like something out of a horror movie. For example, there was the Florida man who was swallowed up in early 2013 when a sinkhole opened without warning beneath his bedroom.
Sinkholes are sudden gaps in the earth’s surface that occur after groundwater gradually dissolves rock such as limestone and carries bits of it away, creating large pores and cracks in bedrock. Once large cavities form underground, the land above it may suddenly settle or collapse, creating the sinkhole.
In the United States, sinkholes tend to cause the most problems in Florida, Texas, Alabama, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee and Pennsylvania, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.
Most home insurance policies will not cover damage associated with “earth movement,” such as an earthquake or sinkhole.
Florida is the only state in which insurers are required to provide coverage for sinkhole damage
Florida insurers must include insurance for “catastrophic ground cover collapse” — which refers to damage so severe, the home is uninhabitable — as part of standard homeowners insurance.
In every other state, earth movement is excluded from the insurance policy.
Termite infestation
Colonies of anywhere from a few hundred to several million termites can quietly and methodically devastate your home.
Wood, paper and dead plant material that is in contact with soil near the house provides termites with a ready source of food and an entry. And moisture accumulated around foundations and in poorly ventilated crawl spaces gives termites a source of water they need to survive.
Over time, termites can damage or destroy support beams and other wood features in a house. The National Pest Management Association estimates that termites cause $5 billion in damage in the U.S. each year.
If these unwanted guests cause wear and tear to your home, do not expect your insurer to bail you out.
Homeowners policies do not pay for termite damage.
Homeowners can avoid structural damage with early intervention.
Nuclear plant accidents
The Federal Emergency Management Agency, or FEMA, says nearly 3 million Americans live within 10 miles of an active nuclear power plant. If an accident at a nearby reactor leaves your home uninhabitable, standard homeowners insurance will not cover the claim. But that does not mean you will be unprotected.
A 1957 federal law called the Price-Anderson Act compensates people in the United States for any damage or injuries resulting from a commercial nuclear accident.
The law was called upon after the nation’s worst nuclear accident, at the Three Mile Island plant near Harrisburg, Pa., in 1979.
The insurance paid for the living expenses of families who decided to evacuate.
The Nuclear Regulatory Commission says an insurance pool of more than $12 billion is available to pay out claims.
Claims covered under Price-Anderson include:
Bodily injury.
Sickness.
Disease resulting in death.
Property damage and loss.
In addition, individuals evacuated from an affected area can expect reimbursement for reasonable living expenses beyond what you ordinarily pay. The coverage does not pay your mortgage, does not pay for your normal food bills.
Some acts of terrorism
The recent Boston Marathon bombings were a reminder that terror can strike at any moment.
The Insurance Information Institute says terrorist attacks using nuclear, biological, chemical or radioactive weapons are considered “acts of war” that are fundamentally uninsurable. Standard home insurance policies do not specifically reference terror attacks.
However, the policy does cover the homeowner for damage due to explosion, fire and smoke, these are the most likely types of damage a home would suffer in a terrorist incident.
If you own a condominium or co-op, the policy you carry on your individual unit will protect your structure and possessions from damage related to a terrorist attack.
However, damage to common areas — including the roof, basement, elevator, boiler and walkways — is not covered unless your board purchases separate terrorism coverage.
When you have a "Clean Water" water damage that is considered a Category 1 Water Damage. That water does not pose substantial threat to humans. Examples are broken water supply lines, tub or sink overflows or appliance malfunctions that involves water supply lines.
If you have a Category 1 or a "Clean Water" Water Damage at your home or business here are some tips to follow:
DO:
Shut off the water source of water if possible, or contact a qualified party to stop the water source.
Turn off circuit breakers for wet ares 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.
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 wood clothes pins to keep furniture skirting off damp floors.
Hang draperies with coated hangers to avoid contact with carpeting or floors.
Hang furs and 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 carpet to cause staining.
Leave Oriental rugs or other colored rugs on wet wall-to-wall carpets to cause staining.
Use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water possibly causing electrical shock or damaging the vacuum cleaner.
Use TVs or other appliances while standing on wet carpets or floors, especially not on wet concrete floors.
Turn on ceiling fans if ceiling is wet, or enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water.
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties is available 24 hours 7 days a week. Please call us today if you have a water damage at your home or business at 662-349-6500.
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate & Tunica Counties also offers the following services:
Fire, Smoke, and Soot
Water Removal & Dehumidification
Mold Mitigation & Remediation
Catastrophic Storm Response
Move Outs & Contents Restoration
Electronics & Equipment
Document Drying
Contents Claim Inventory Service
Air Ducts & HVAC Cleaning
Biohazard, Crime Scene, and Vandalism Cleaning
Carpet, Upholstery, Drapes & Blinds Cleaning
Ceilings, Walls, and Hard Floors Cleaning
Odor Identification
Deodorization
SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate and Tunica Counties is IICRC certified
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.
IICRC Certified Firms must
• Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.
• Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.
• Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.
• Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.
• Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.
The IICRC Develops The Standards For The Restoration Industry
The IICRC has been the driving force in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation. These IICRC standards take years to develop and require the coordination of experts in the field: manufacturers, industry organizations, insurance professionals, training schools, contractors, and public health professionals.
Every five years, the standards are reviewed and updated. The water damage restoration field changes rapidly with advancements in technology and science, and therefore the standards must evolve to keep pace.
About SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties 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 and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: 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.
Here are some tips that we believe will be helpful in preparing for severe weather.
TORNADOES
Tornadoes can strike without warning and destroy a community in seconds. Before a tornado warning is issued for your area, here are some things you should do:
1. Know your community’s warning system.
2. Pick a place where family members can gather if a tornado is headed your way. It could be your basement or, if there is no basement, a center hallway, bathroom, or closet on the lowest floor. Keep this place uncluttered.
3. If you are in a high-rise building and don’t have enough time to go to the lowest floor, pick a place in a hallway in the center of the building.
4. Remove diseased and damaged limbs from trees.
5. Move or secure lawn furniture, trash cans, hanging plants or anything else that can be picked up by the wind and become a projectile.
THUNDERSTORM SAFETY STEPS Thunderstorms injure an average of 300 people every year, and cause about 80 fatalities. Here are the top thunderstorm safety steps you should follow:
1. If you can hear thunder, you are close enough to the storm to be struck by lightning. Go to safe shelter immediately.
2. As the storm approaches, take shelter in a building.
3. If you are driving, pull off the roadway and park. Stay in the car with the windows closed and turn on the emergency flashers. Avoid touching metal or other surfaces that conduct electricity in and outside of the vehicle.
4. If you are inside, unplug appliances and avoid using the telephone or any electrical appliances. Avoid taking a bath or shower, or running water for any other purpose.
5. If you are caught outside and cannot reach a safe building, avoid high ground, water, tall, isolated trees and metal objects such as fences or bleachers. Picnic shelters, dugouts and sheds are not safe.
FLOODING Heavy rains could fill rivers and streams, bringing flooding to the area. If your neighborhood is threatened with the possibility of flooding, here are some things you should do:
1. 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.
2. Stay away from floodwaters.
3. 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.
4. Keep children out of the water.
5. Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize flood danger.
SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate and Tunica Counties is always here to help! Should you need help after severe weather please give us a call at 662-349-6500.
Did you know there is a science behind the process of drying? Having this knowledge is essential to restoring a water-damaged structure to its preloss condition. While your initial reaction may be to grab a few towels to mop up the mess and place a fan or two around the damaged area, SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties Professionals are trained in the science of drying and follow strict industry approved standards to help lower the chances of any secondary damage. If your home or business suffers from water damage, our team will:
Inspect the building to detect every component that is wet to help prevent secondary damage from happening.
Measure how much moisture is in wet materials and monitor whether the materials are drying properly.
Speed up Mother Nature by using professional drying equipment.
What exactly does it mean to help “speed up Mother Nature”? A wet building can often dry naturally because the environment always seeks equilibrium. When materials are wet, moisture will naturally move to drier air at the surface of the material–but only if the air is, indeed, drier.
The only problem is, nature often takes too long and secondary damages may occur while the building is drying out.
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties has the tools and equipment to help Mother Nature along, including equipment to help dry hardwood floors, tough-to-reach spaces inside walls, and much more. Our technicians also use state-of-the-art monitoring equipment and a proven scientific process to help speed the drying of your home or business.
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties has the training and equipment to help make water damage “Like it never even happened.” If your home or business has water damage, give us a call today at 662-349-6500.
House fires are sudden and unexpected. Studies show that you may only have two minutes to escape from a home fire and get to safety, which does not seem like much time. However, Following these tips from the Red Cross will not only help you prevent house fires, but they will also help you prepare and make sure your family is safe if one ever does occur.
1. Get Rid of Fire Hazards
Identifying and taking the necessary precautions to ensure that you do not have fire hazards in your home is important. This means all electronic items that produce heat should always be at least three feet away from anything flammable. All space heaters and electric blankets should always be turned off when they are not being used.
2. Always Avoid Smoking in Bed
Smoking in bed is dangerous because of the possibility of hot ashes igniting your flammable bedding. It is also important to make sure all candles are put out when being left unattended.
3. Make Sure Your Children Are Informed
Talk to your children about the importance of not playing with lighters, matches, and fire. You can take an extra precautionary step by keeping all matches and lighters up high and out of reach or locked up in a place that your children cannot access.
4. Check Your Smoke Alarms
Be sure you have working smoke detectors on every floor of your home and on the inside and outside of every sleeping area. These should be checked monthly to ensure the batteries are working, and they should be replaces every 10 years.
5. Make a Plan
Discuss your outside meeting spot with your family and come up with an escape plan. This escape plan should be practiced at least twice a year, and you should make sure that every member of your family is able to escape in less than two minutes.
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties specialize 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.
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 restoration costs.
When storms hit Southaven, MS and surrounding towns 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 SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate and Tunica counties today at (662) 349-6500!
When disaster strikes your home, Property Insurance, is supposed to be there to help you pick up the pieces. Most of the time, it does.
A Bankrate survey found that 81 percent were aware flooding is not covered by regular homeowners insurance. You may have heard earthquakes also require special coverage. Yet you may not know that there are other types of damage that are excluded from most policies as well:
Mold
At least 1,000 species of mold are common to the United States, according to the New York-based trade group the Insurance Information Institute.
Despite the threat, a standard homeowners insurance policy generally either limits coverage for mold damage or outright excludes it.
Some insurers offer an endorsement to expand coverage limits for mold claims but only if you are willing to pay more for your insurance, she says.
The best cure for mold is to prevent it from growing in the first place. If the basement floods after a rainstorm or a pipe is leaking, eliminate the moisture promptly.
Sewer backup
America’s sewer lines are rapidly aging, with some more than 100 years old. As more homes have been connected to these out-of-date lines, sewage backups have followed.
Other sources of backups include pipelines that handle both stormwater and raw sewage — and become overwhelmed in rainstorms — and blockages from tree roots that work their way into sewer-line cracks.
When a sewer backs up into a home, it can damage floors, walls, furniture and electrical systems. Standard homeowners insurance does not cover sewer backups.
The Insurance Information Institute says sewer-backup damage often can be covered for an additional premium of just $40 to $50 per year.
Sinkholes
Sinkholes can seem like something out of a horror movie. For example, there was the Florida man who was swallowed up in early 2013 when a sinkhole opened without warning beneath his bedroom.
Sinkholes are sudden gaps in the earth’s surface that occur after groundwater gradually dissolves rock such as limestone and carries bits of it away, creating large pores and cracks in bedrock. Once large cavities form underground, the land above it may suddenly settle or collapse, creating the sinkhole.
In the United States, sinkholes tend to cause the most problems in Florida, Texas, Alabama, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee and Pennsylvania, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.
Most home insurance policies will not cover damage associated with “earth movement,” such as an earthquake or sinkhole.
Florida is the only state in which insurers are required to provide coverage for sinkhole damage
Florida insurers must include insurance for “catastrophic ground cover collapse” — which refers to damage so severe, the home is uninhabitable — as part of standard homeowners insurance.
In every other state, earth movement is excluded from the insurance policy.
Termite infestation
Colonies of anywhere from a few hundred to several million termites can quietly and methodically devastate your home.
Wood, paper and dead plant material that is in contact with soil near the house provides termites with a ready source of food and an entry. And moisture accumulated around foundations and in poorly ventilated crawl spaces gives termites a source of water they need to survive.
Over time, termites can damage or destroy support beams and other wood features in a house. The National Pest Management Association estimates that termites cause $5 billion in damage in the U.S. each year.
If these unwanted guests cause wear and tear to your home, do not expect your insurer to bail you out.
Homeowners policies do not pay for termite damage.
Homeowners can avoid structural damage with early intervention.
Nuclear plant accidents
The Federal Emergency Management Agency, or FEMA, says nearly 3 million Americans live within 10 miles of an active nuclear power plant. If an accident at a nearby reactor leaves your home uninhabitable, standard homeowners insurance will not cover the claim. But that does not mean you will be unprotected.
A 1957 federal law called the Price-Anderson Act compensates people in the United States for any damage or injuries resulting from a commercial nuclear accident.
The law was called upon after the nation’s worst nuclear accident, at the Three Mile Island plant near Harrisburg, Pa., in 1979.
The insurance paid for the living expenses of families who decided to evacuate.
The Nuclear Regulatory Commission says an insurance pool of more than $12 billion is available to pay out claims.
Claims covered under Price-Anderson include:
Bodily injury.
Sickness.
Disease resulting in death.
Property damage and loss.
In addition, individuals evacuated from an affected area can expect reimbursement for reasonable living expenses beyond what you ordinarily pay. The coverage does not pay your mortgage, does not pay for your normal food bills.
Some acts of terrorism
The recent Boston Marathon bombings were a reminder that terror can strike at any moment.
The Insurance Information Institute says terrorist attacks using nuclear, biological, chemical or radioactive weapons are considered “acts of war” that are fundamentally uninsurable. Standard home insurance policies do not specifically reference terror attacks.
However, the policy does cover the homeowner for damage due to explosion, fire and smoke, these are the most likely types of damage a home would suffer in a terrorist incident.
If you own a condominium or co-op, the policy you carry on your individual unit will protect your structure and possessions from damage related to a terrorist attack.
However, damage to common areas — including the roof, basement, elevator, boiler and walkways — is not covered unless your board purchases separate terrorism coverage.
Did you know there is a science behind the process of drying? Having this knowledge is essential to restoring a water-damaged structure to its preloss condition. While your initial reaction may be to grab a few towels to mop up the mess and place a fan or two around the damaged area, SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties Professionals are trained in the science of drying and follow strict industry approved standards to help lower the chances of any secondary damage. If your home or business suffers from water damage, our team will:
Inspect the building to detect every component that is wet to help prevent secondary damage from happening.
Measure how much moisture is in wet materials and monitor whether the materials are drying properly.
Speed up Mother Nature by using professional drying equipment.
What exactly does it mean to help “speed up Mother Nature”? A wet building can often dry naturally because the environment always seeks equilibrium. When materials are wet, moisture will naturally move to drier air at the surface of the material–but only if the air is, indeed, drier.
The only problem is, nature often takes too long and secondary damages may occur while the building is drying out.
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties has the tools and equipment to help Mother Nature along, including equipment to help dry hardwood floors, tough-to-reach spaces inside walls, and much more. Our technicians also use state-of-the-art monitoring equipment and a proven scientific process to help speed the drying of your home or business.
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties has the training and equipment to help make water damage “Like it never even happened.” If your home or business has water damage, give us a call today at 662-349-6500.
You may have taken measures to help prevent fire in your office, but are you prepared in case fire does break out? According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), U.S. fire departments respond to an average of 340 fires in office properties each year. Make sure your business is prepared for fire.
Check Fire Alarms
The first key is to have functioning fire alarms in your property. Smoke alarms save lives when properly installed and maintained, according to the NFPA.
Test smoke alarms monthly using the test button. Smoke alarms with non-replaceable batteries need the entire smoke alarm unit replaced every ten years. Other alarms need batteries replaced every year, and the unit replaced every ten years. If the alarm chirps signaling low battery, take the proper steps to replace the unit or the batteries immediately. Never disable or remove the battery from an alarm. Almost half of fires where smoke alarms were present but did not activate had missing or disconnected batteries (NFPA).
In larger commercial facilities, hard wired or wireless smoke alarms offer benefits such as not needing to be tested as often and activating throughout the entire building if smoke is detected in just one area (NFPA).
If you need help installing, testing or changing batteries in your smoke alarms, contact your local fire department, an electrician or the American Red Cross.
Create and Implement an Office Evacuation Plan
An emergency escape plan is not required for all businesses; however, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recommends building an emergency action plan to protect yourself, your employees, and your business during an emergency. OSHA suggests the following steps when developing such a plan.
Organize an Emergency Preparedness Procedures review with employees to review your company’s emergency plans. You may wish to select an individual or team of individuals to lead and coordinate your emergency plan.
Once a plan is developed, post evacuation procedures, including routes and exits, where they are easily accessible to all employees. Ensure all exits and routes are clearly marked and well lit, wide enough to accommodate the number of evacuating personnel, and unobstructed and clear of debris at all times.
Conduct office evacuation exercises and drills. Designate a safe spot outside of the facility where employees can regroup, recover, and conduct a head count. Once completed, evaluate how well the plan worked and if additional training or exercises are needed.
Create a SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile®
At SERVPRO of South Everett, we can create an Emergency READY Profile (ERP) for your business. When disaster strikes, you don’t want to spend time trying to figure out whom you should contact for what. Our ERPs include a detailed assessment of your facility along with a profile document and guide to getting you back to business faster after an incident. We even offer a mobile app for convenience. If you want to set up an Emergency READY Profile, call us today at 662-349-6500.
It is important to be prepared before a disaster like a fire hits your property. For the sake of your employees and your property, make sure your office is safe and prepared. If disaster does strike, SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties is always here to help. Give us a call at 662-349-6500.
SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate and Tunica Counties is an IICRC certified firm.
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.
IICRC Certified Firms must
• Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.
• Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.
• Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.
• Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.
• Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.
The IICRC Develops The Standards For The Restoration Industry
The IICRC has been the driving force in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation. These IICRC standards take years to develop and require the coordination of experts in the field: manufacturers, industry organizations, insurance professionals, training schools, contractors, and public health professionals.
Every five years, the standards are reviewed and updated. The water damage restoration field changes rapidly with advancements in technology and science, and therefore the standards must evolve to keep pace.
About SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties 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 and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: 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.
House fires are sudden and unexpected. Studies show that you may only have two minutes to escape from a home fire and get to safety, which does not seem like much time. However, Following these tips from the Red Cross will not only help you prevent house fires, but they will also help you prepare and make sure your family is safe if one ever does occur.
1. Get Rid of Fire Hazards
Identifying and taking the necessary precautions to ensure that you do not have fire hazards in your home is important. This means all electronic items that produce heat should always be at least three feet away from anything flammable. All space heaters and electric blankets should always be turned off when they are not being used.
2. Always Avoid Smoking in Bed
Smoking in bed is dangerous because of the possibility of hot ashes igniting your flammable bedding. It is also important to make sure all candles are put out when being left unattended.
3. Make Sure Your Children Are Informed
Talk to your children about the importance of not playing with lighters, matches, and fire. You can take an extra precautionary step by keeping all matches and lighters up high and out of reach or locked up in a place that your children cannot access.
4. Check Your Smoke Alarms
Be sure you have working smoke detectors on every floor of your home and on the inside and outside of every sleeping area. These should be checked monthly to ensure the batteries are working, and they should be replaces every 10 years.
5. Make a Plan
Discuss your outside meeting spot with your family and come up with an escape plan. This escape plan should be practiced at least twice a year, and you should make sure that every member of your family is able to escape in less than two minutes.
For many small business owners, their small business is their livelihood. Any disaster that happens to hurt the company can be detrimental the owner’s finances in a huge way. One of the most common issues that many business owners face is commercial fire damage. There are many ways in which fire can affect your business. However, there are steps that a company can take both before and after fire damage occurs to mitigate any damage that a fire may cause.
Fire Prevention
Although it seems obvious, being able to prevent fire damage from occurring is the best defense against fire. There are many things that a business can do to increase their first line against fire issues. First, always use the highest quality building materials possible. Many new building materials are much more fire resistant and can end up saving a lot of money. They may be more expensive to put in, but if a fire occurs, they can help save thousands of dollars in repairs. Also, if your facility has a lot of employees, be sure to have safety meetings and discuss the ways they can reduce the likelihood of a fire taking place. For example, a cigarette should be disposed of properly rather than just throwing it on the ground or in a trash can. These steps can go a long way in reducing the chances of a fire. However, at the end of the day even if a business takes the necessary precautions, a fire may still occur. It is important to have a good plan in place and a company that you trust to help clean up the fire damages.
Fire Damage
Some business owners may thing that fire damage is something that will easily be cleaned up. However, there are often several layers of issues that the small business owner faces in the aftermath. Flames in a fire can cause damage to the exterior and the interior of the building. Sometimes there may even be structural damage as well. The damage caused by fire and smoke are a significant issue. Many people may feel as though the smoke just smells bad but it can cause long term damage as well. It is important that you work with a quality experienced restoration company to restore the building that was damaged.
Here are some tips that we believe will be helpful in preparing for severe weather.
TORNADOES
Tornadoes can strike without warning and destroy a community in seconds. Before a tornado warning is issued for your area, here are some things you should do:
1. Know your community’s warning system.
2. Pick a place where family members can gather if a tornado is headed your way. It could be your basement or, if there is no basement, a center hallway, bathroom, or closet on the lowest floor. Keep this place uncluttered.
3. If you are in a high-rise building and don’t have enough time to go to the lowest floor, pick a place in a hallway in the center of the building.
4. Remove diseased and damaged limbs from trees.
5. Move or secure lawn furniture, trash cans, hanging plants or anything else that can be picked up by the wind and become a projectile.
THUNDERSTORM SAFETY STEPS Thunderstorms injure an average of 300 people every year, and cause about 80 fatalities. Here are the top thunderstorm safety steps you should follow:
1. If you can hear thunder, you are close enough to the storm to be struck by lightning. Go to safe shelter immediately.
2. As the storm approaches, take shelter in a building.
3. If you are driving, pull off the roadway and park. Stay in the car with the windows closed and turn on the emergency flashers. Avoid touching metal or other surfaces that conduct electricity in and outside of the vehicle.
4. If you are inside, unplug appliances and avoid using the telephone or any electrical appliances. Avoid taking a bath or shower, or running water for any other purpose.
5. If you are caught outside and cannot reach a safe building, avoid high ground, water, tall, isolated trees and metal objects such as fences or bleachers. Picnic shelters, dugouts and sheds are not safe.
FLOODING Heavy rains could fill rivers and streams, bringing flooding to the area. If your neighborhood is threatened with the possibility of flooding, here are some things you should do:
1. 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.
2. Stay away from floodwaters.
3. 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.
4. Keep children out of the water.
5. Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize flood danger.
SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate and Tunica Counties is always here to help! Should you need help after severe weather please give us a call at 662-349-6500.
Home Fire Preparedness: There are actually ways you can prepare your home for a fire. Here a few tips:
Install the right number of smoke alarms. Smoke alarms should be installed on every level of your home, outside each sleeping area, and inside each sleeping room.
Test your smoke alarms once a month. Change your batteries twice a year. We suggest changing them each time the time changes.
Have a fire extinguisher in your home, especially in your kitchen.
Teach your children what smoke alarms sound like and what that sound means.
Ensure all household members know two ways to escape from every room of your home and know the family meeting spot outside of your home.
Establish a family emergency communications plan and ensure that all household members know who to contact if they cannot find one another.
Practice escaping from your home at least twice a year. Press the smoke alarm test button or yell "FIRE" to alert everyone that they must get out. Maybe do this when you put new batteries in the smoke alarms.
Make sure everyone knows how to call 911.
Teach household members how to STOP, DROP, and ROLL if their clothes should catch on fire.
What To Do if a Fire Starts:
Know how to safely operate a fire extinguisher.
Remember to GET OUT, STAY OUT, and CALL 911.
Yell "FIRE" several times and go outside right away. If you live in a building with elevators, use the stairs. Leave all your things where they are and save yourself.
If closed doors or handles are warm or smoke blocks your primary escape route, use your second way out. Never open doors that are warm to touch.
If you must escape through smoke, get low and go under the smoke to your exit. Close doors behind you.
Recovering After a Fire:
Call 911. Give first aid where needed; cool and cover burns to reduce the chance of further injury or infection.
Let friends and family know you are safe.
People and animals that are seriously injured or burned should be transported to professional medical or veterinary help immediately.
Stay out of fire-damaged home until local fire authorities say it is safe to re-enter.
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties can also help you get your home and belongings back together after a fire. Call us today at 662-349-6500.
When you have a "Clean Water" water damage that is considered a Category 1 Water Damage. That water does not pose substantial threat to humans. Examples are broken water supply lines, tub or sink overflows or appliance malfunctions that involves water supply lines.
If you have a Category 1 or a "Clean Water" Water Damage at your home or business here are some tips to follow:
DO:
Shut off the water source of water if possible, or contact a qualified party to stop the water source.
Turn off circuit breakers for wet ares 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.
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 wood clothes pins to keep furniture skirting off damp floors.
Hang draperies with coated hangers to avoid contact with carpeting or floors.
Hang furs and 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 carpet to cause staining.
Leave Oriental rugs or other colored rugs on wet wall-to-wall carpets to cause staining.
Use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water possibly causing electrical shock or damaging the vacuum cleaner.
Use TVs or other appliances while standing on wet carpets or floors, especially not on wet concrete floors.
Turn on ceiling fans if ceiling is wet, or enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water.
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties is available 24 hours 7 days a week. Please call us today if you have a water damage at your home or business at 662-349-6500.
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate & Tunica Counties also offers the following services:
Your restaurant’s nightly checklist has to be followed to the letter in order to keep your business in great shape and ready for the next business day. Every item has to be thoroughly washed and sparkling clean on a daily basis; the kitchen flooring, stovetops and ovens, utensils, pots and coffee makers…. And then there’s the front of house - bathrooms, host stand, and bar area with all your glassware that needs attention. But you and your team have it all handled, every day.
Flooring in a busy restaurant can be a challenge, as well. Many eateries choose to install hardwood floors, which have to be treated regularly to avoid damage from high heels, spills, and scratches from table and chair movement.
Perhaps, however, your establishment has carpeting. A nightly vacuum and spot cleaning will go a long way towards preventing potential mold growth and other issues that can cause unpleasant odors, but your carpeting will still need a regular deep cleaning to keep floors looking the way you want them to. With carpeting, spills on carpeting don’t come up quite as easily or as completely as those on hardwood flooring, and a carpet in need of deep cleaning can look dull and worn, with the colors no longer as bright and fresh; that can reflect negatively on your guest’s experience. Make sure a deep cleaning is on your cleaning checklist!
In order to be fully prepared, you should have all pertinent and proper information in a written plan for east retrieval. Some key questions to consider when creating a person preparedness plan include:
Do you have an escape or evacuation route in place?
Do you have a designated meeting place in case of separation?
Does everyone have a list of contact information including family members out of state who can serve as a point of contact?
Do you have a disaster supply kit with necessary supplies?
Do you have a first aid kit that includes necessary prescription medicines, over-the-counter medicines and basic medical supplies?
Do you have enough non-perishable food and bottled water?
Do you have access to important family documents, including insurance policies, bank, credit card, and loan information and family records such as birth certificates and social security cards?
Do you have an inventory of valuable household goods?
A well-equipped disaster supply kit should include, but is not limited to, the following,
Water - a large enough supply to provide each person with 1 gallon daily for drinking and sanitation.
Food - enough to last 3-7 days. Food needs to be non-perishable or canned food. You will also want to include a non-electric can opener, paper plates, and plastic utensils.
Bedding including sheets, blankets, and pillows.
Clothing - remember it may be warm, however, you may be working and cleaning and may prefer pants or long sleeves to protect your skin. You will also need sturdy, closed toe, non-slip shoes if available.
First aid kit including antiseptics or sanitizers and bandages, over-the-counter and prescription medications.
Extra flashlights and batteries. Oil lanterns also provide a good source of light, if available.
Toiletries including toilet paper and hygiene items. Hand sanitizers are also good to have on hand.
Battery-operated radio with extra batteries so you can listen to weather service announcements.
Cash - you will want some cash and small bills on hand as banks may not be open.
Emergency phone numbers and contact information including insurance agent and family contacts.
Tools, tarps, plastic sheets, trash bags, duct tape, etc. to help make minor repairs.
Important documents should be kept in a waterproof bag or plastic sealed container and should include insurance, medical and family records, birth certificates, social security cards, bank account information and a complete home inventory analysis.
Gas - fill you car's tank ahead of time if time permits. You may also want to fill plastic gasoline-approved containers with gas to store.
Pet care items including food, leash and a carrier or cage.
Don't wait until it is too late; prepare not to help protect your family in an emergency or disaster situation.
As a homeowner, you do not plan for your home in Southaven, MS to flood, but if it does, it is important to know the critical first steps to take. Your home adjuster is tasked with assessing the damage, and there are a few key things you can document to assist with the analysis:
• Written list of all that is damaged or destroyed • Cost to repair or replace damaged items • Pictures of the damage • Estimate from restoration specialists
Structural Damage
If there is visible damage to the house itself, you need to make note of it. Make a list of every wall that has signs of water damage. Check your floor for warping or missing tiles. If there are cracks in your walls or in your foundation, put that on the list as well. Take pictures of everything you write down to back up your statements. It is advisable to contact professional water damage restoration technicians to get an estimate in writing of how much the repairs to your home are going to cost to give to your home adjuster.
Destroyed Possessions
The insurance claim you file is likely to include damaged items in your home. Make an inventory of everything that needs to be replaced as a result of the flooding. Beside each item, list when you purchased it and approximately how much it would cost to replace it. Keep the damaged items and take digital pictures so you can print them out or email them.
Once you have compiled an inventory of the damage to your home for your insurance claim, make a copy for your records before you hand it off to the home adjuster. That way, if there is a discrepancy between what the adjuster finds and what your records show, you have your own proof. Ensuring that you and the adjuster have the same information may help your insurance company settle your claim and get your home back to normal more quickly.
Did you know there is a science behind the process of drying? Having this knowledge is essential to restoring a water-damaged structure to its preloss condition. While your initial reaction may be to grab a few towels to mop up the mess and place a fan or two around the damaged area, SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties Professionals are trained in the science of drying and follow strict industry approved standards to help lower the chances of any secondary damage. If your home or business suffers from water damage, our team will:
Inspect the building to detect every component that is wet to help prevent secondary damage from happening.
Measure how much moisture is in wet materials and monitor whether the materials are drying properly.
Speed up Mother Nature by using professional drying equipment.
What exactly does it mean to help “speed up Mother Nature”? A wet building can often dry naturally because the environment always seeks equilibrium. When materials are wet, moisture will naturally move to drier air at the surface of the material–but only if the air is, indeed, drier.
The only problem is, nature often takes too long and secondary damages may occur while the building is drying out.
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties has the tools and equipment to help Mother Nature along, including equipment to help dry hardwood floors, tough-to-reach spaces inside walls, and much more. Our technicians also use state-of-the-art monitoring equipment and a proven scientific process to help speed the drying of your home or business.
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties has the training and equipment to help make water damage “Like it never even happened.” If your home or business has water damage, give us a call today at 662-349-6500.
You may have taken measures to help prevent fire in your office, but are you prepared in case fire does break out? According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), U.S. fire departments respond to an average of 340 fires in office properties each year. Make sure your business is prepared for fire.
Check Fire Alarms
The first key is to have functioning fire alarms in your property. Smoke alarms save lives when properly installed and maintained, according to the NFPA.
Test smoke alarms monthly using the test button. Smoke alarms with non-replaceable batteries need the entire smoke alarm unit replaced every ten years. Other alarms need batteries replaced every year, and the unit replaced every ten years. If the alarm chirps signaling low battery, take the proper steps to replace the unit or the batteries immediately. Never disable or remove the battery from an alarm. Almost half of fires where smoke alarms were present but did not activate had missing or disconnected batteries (NFPA).
In larger commercial facilities, hard wired or wireless smoke alarms offer benefits such as not needing to be tested as often and activating throughout the entire building if smoke is detected in just one area (NFPA).
If you need help installing, testing or changing batteries in your smoke alarms, contact your local fire department, an electrician or the American Red Cross.
Create and Implement an Office Evacuation Plan
An emergency escape plan is not required for all businesses; however, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recommends building an emergency action plan to protect yourself, your employees, and your business during an emergency. OSHA suggests the following steps when developing such a plan.
Organize an Emergency Preparedness Procedures review with employees to review your company’s emergency plans. You may wish to select an individual or team of individuals to lead and coordinate your emergency plan.
Once a plan is developed, post evacuation procedures, including routes and exits, where they are easily accessible to all employees. Ensure all exits and routes are clearly marked and well lit, wide enough to accommodate the number of evacuating personnel, and unobstructed and clear of debris at all times.
Conduct office evacuation exercises and drills. Designate a safe spot outside of the facility where employees can regroup, recover, and conduct a head count. Once completed, evaluate how well the plan worked and if additional training or exercises are needed.
Create a SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile®
At SERVPRO of South Everett, we can create an Emergency READY Profile (ERP) for your business. When disaster strikes, you don’t want to spend time trying to figure out whom you should contact for what. Our ERPs include a detailed assessment of your facility along with a profile document and guide to getting you back to business faster after an incident. We even offer a mobile app for convenience. If you want to set up an Emergency READY Profile, call us today at 662-349-6500.
It is important to be prepared before a disaster like fire hits your property. For the sake of your employees and your property, make sure your office is safe and prepared. If disaster does strike, SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties is always here to help. Give us a call at 662-349-6500.
Fires are devastating in many ways, and they can destroy valuable items in your home or office. You may worry about important documents, such as birth certificates and social security cards. Knowing some important about document restoration can help you to restore those items in the event of a fire.
Take Precautions
Taking precautionary measures can better prepare your valuable items for document restoration. For example, you could store them in a fireproof box. In the event that they experience some damage, possibly because of a hole in the box, restoring them would likely be more of a possibility. You should also keep them together so that you don't waste valuable time trying to locate them after a fire.
Call Early
If you wait too long to call SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties, you may discover that it is too late to perform full fire restoration services when it comes to your documents. Recovering from a fire is often tremendously difficult, and you may not want to think more about the incident. However, by taking the time to call early, you can allow your family and home to start to heal.
Ask for Instructions
When you are on the phone booking an appointment with the professionals, ask if you should do anything to better preserve your documents. For example, if you touch damaged documents, the paper might crumble. The team may advise you to leave the documents exactly where they are, or you may receive instructions to handle them in a certain manner.
Maintain Realistic Expectations
In the event that an important document was seriously damaged, you may have high hopes that it will be restored. Keep in mind that an evaluation of the situation is one of the first steps. If the documents have been completely burned in the fire, restoring them might prove impossible.
Create a List of Resources
Before a damaging event takes place, work to create a list of resources with which you can consult in the event that the documents are beyond repair. For example, you can find out what entity to contact if you lose your social security card or birth certificate in the fire
Fires provoke fear in many people. You likely have your own anxieties about fires. One of these fears may relate to the potential destruction of documents. Fortunately, you have options if you think your documents have been ruined; you can call to inquire about restoration.
Unexpected emergencies like severe weather call for immediate action. SERVPRO of Tupelo knows immediate reaction to the disaster is important to helping you get your life back to normal.
Utilizing our 1-4-8 Service Response Guidelines we strive to:
Contact you within 1 hour from notice of loss to arrange for your service.
Be-on-site to begin mitigation services within 4 hours of notification.
Provide verbal briefing of scope to you within 8 business hour of on-site arrival.
Exceptions to our 1-4-8 Service Response times may apply under certain conditions, such as a local catastrophic event or storm situation.
We also perform pack-out services, which is removing salvageable personal property from the affected area for off-site cleaning and storage.
If you have storm damage to your home or property, call us today 662-395-6500. Timely mitigation is the key to minimize secondary damages caused by severe storms. We are also a one stop shop. We can handle everything from tarping and board ups to all of your post construction needs as well.
Why choose SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate and Tunica Counties
Why should I choose a professional restoration company for water intrusion/ damage?
Homeowners and business owners should not risk doing the work themselves as there may hidden water or moisture that can go undetected to the untrained eye. Taking into account that mold growth can occur in as little as 24-48 hours in the presence of moisture, undetected water damage can pose long term problems if not properly handled.
Due to the potential hazards associated with water-related damage, moisture and water should be handled by properly trained and equipped professionals to ensure complete and necessary drying to prevent future harm, extensive structural damage and possible contamination.
Improper cleanup could hinder property re-sale value.
Professional restoration companies have essential tools and techniques to measure moisture in the area to ensure proper and complete drying in a timely manner.
Water technicians should be fully aware of water or moisture-related characteristics to locate leaks or water damaged areas that may otherwise go unnoticed.
Homes and other properties are large and often expensive assets. Why run the risks associated with improper drying, deodorizing and disinfecting which can lead to potential secondary structural damage? Help protect your property’s value by calling the professionals at SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties.
Why should I choose SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties for water cleanup and restoration?
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties recognizes the necessity for prompt and accurate response and offer 1-4-8 Response Guidelines to help minimize additional, secondary or permanent damage and contamination. In addition, SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties is available for emergency response 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Knowledge and training are key elements in effective water removal and moisture damage. SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties applies their industry knowledge, training and understanding of how relative humidity, temperature, vapor pressure and air movement influence drying conditions.
Powerful and professional equipment is essential for proper mitigation and efficient restoration of water damaged areas. SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties is outfitted with state-of-the-art industrial grade equipment and products to measure the extent of moisture saturation and offer proper drying, deodorizing and disinfecting of water damaged areas.
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties offers content restoration to restore water damaged contents and personal belongings. Often when water damage occurs, personal possessions are also damaged by moisture. SERVPRO Technicians work diligently to try and return personal contents to preloss conditions.
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties works with insurance, real estate, contracting and property management companies to offer complete file management, estimates and detailed explanations of work, including status updates, changes and feedback to keep companies fully aware of a property’s drying, cleaning and restoration status. At SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties, we know you want quality information and proof of results. SERVPRO technology is designed to support your efforts!
Timely mitigation is key to the restoration process. Restoring property is the SERVPRO Professional’s first priority. You will appreciate the immediate response, and you will know everything possible is being done to limit the damage. Even if a loss is below the deductible amount, fast action helps assure the event will stay small!
Call SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties today at 662-349-6500. No water damage is too big or too small.
When disaster strikes your home, Property Insurance, is supposed to be there to help you pick up the pieces. Most of the time, it does.
A Bankrate survey found that 81 percent were aware flooding is not covered by regular homeowners insurance. You may have heard earthquakes also require special coverage. Yet you may not know that there are other types of damage that are excluded from most policies as well:
Mold
At least 1,000 species of mold are common to the United States, according to the New York-based trade group the Insurance Information Institute.
Despite the threat, a standard homeowners insurance policy generally either limits coverage for mold damage or outright excludes it.
Some insurers offer an endorsement to expand coverage limits for mold claims but only if you are willing to pay more for your insurance, she says.
The best cure for mold is to prevent it from growing in the first place. If the basement floods after a rainstorm or a pipe is leaking, eliminate the moisture promptly.
Sewer backup
America’s sewer lines are rapidly aging, with some more than 100 years old. As more homes have been connected to these out-of-date lines, sewage backups have followed.
Other sources of backups include pipelines that handle both stormwater and raw sewage — and become overwhelmed in rainstorms — and blockages from tree roots that work their way into sewer-line cracks.
When a sewer backs up into a home, it can damage floors, walls, furniture and electrical systems. Standard homeowners insurance does not cover sewer backups.
The Insurance Information Institute says sewer-backup damage often can be covered for an additional premium of just $40 to $50 per year.
Sinkholes
Sinkholes can seem like something out of a horror movie. For example, there was the Florida man who was swallowed up in early 2013 when a sinkhole opened without warning beneath his bedroom.
Sinkholes are sudden gaps in the earth’s surface that occur after groundwater gradually dissolves rock such as limestone and carries bits of it away, creating large pores and cracks in bedrock. Once large cavities form underground, the land above it may suddenly settle or collapse, creating the sinkhole.
In the United States, sinkholes tend to cause the most problems in Florida, Texas, Alabama, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee and Pennsylvania, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.
Most home insurance policies will not cover damage associated with “earth movement,” such as an earthquake or sinkhole.
Florida is the only state in which insurers are required to provide coverage for sinkhole damage
Florida insurers must include insurance for “catastrophic ground cover collapse” — which refers to damage so severe, the home is uninhabitable — as part of standard homeowners insurance.
In every other state, earth movement is excluded from the insurance policy.
Termite infestation
Colonies of anywhere from a few hundred to several million termites can quietly and methodically devastate your home.
Wood, paper and dead plant material that is in contact with soil near the house provides termites with a ready source of food and an entry. And moisture accumulated around foundations and in poorly ventilated crawl spaces gives termites a source of water they need to survive.
Over time, termites can damage or destroy support beams and other wood features in a house. The National Pest Management Association estimates that termites cause $5 billion in damage in the U.S. each year.
If these unwanted guests cause wear and tear to your home, do not expect your insurer to bail you out.
Homeowners policies do not pay for termite damage.
Homeowners can avoid structural damage with early intervention.
Nuclear plant accidents
The Federal Emergency Management Agency, or FEMA, says nearly 3 million Americans live within 10 miles of an active nuclear power plant. If an accident at a nearby reactor leaves your home uninhabitable, standard homeowners insurance will not cover the claim. But that does not mean you will be unprotected.
A 1957 federal law called the Price-Anderson Act compensates people in the United States for any damage or injuries resulting from a commercial nuclear accident.
The law was called upon after the nation’s worst nuclear accident, at the Three Mile Island plant near Harrisburg, Pa., in 1979.
The insurance paid for the living expenses of families who decided to evacuate.
The Nuclear Regulatory Commission says an insurance pool of more than $12 billion is available to pay out claims.
Claims covered under Price-Anderson include:
Bodily injury.
Sickness.
Disease resulting in death.
Property damage and loss.
In addition, individuals evacuated from an affected area can expect reimbursement for reasonable living expenses beyond what you ordinarily pay. The coverage does not pay your mortgage, does not pay for your normal food bills.
Some acts of terrorism
The recent Boston Marathon bombings were a reminder that terror can strike at any moment.
The Insurance Information Institute says terrorist attacks using nuclear, biological, chemical or radioactive weapons are considered “acts of war” that are fundamentally uninsurable. Standard home insurance policies do not specifically reference terror attacks.
However, the policy does cover the homeowner for damage due to explosion, fire and smoke, these are the most likely types of damage a home would suffer in a terrorist incident.
If you own a condominium or co-op, the policy you carry on your individual unit will protect your structure and possessions from damage related to a terrorist attack.
However, damage to common areas — including the roof, basement, elevator, boiler and walkways — is not covered unless your board purchases separate terrorism coverage.
One pipe leak can result in major water damage throughout many rooms in a home. When a hot water heater leaks in the attic it can cause damage in several rooms below. Typically in these situations, you don't know there is a problem until it's too late!
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate & Tunica Counties is equipped to respond to these type of water damage the same day the job is called in. We will extract the water, remove damaged structure, and set up drying equipment. We will monitor the job daily until all structure is dry!
It is recommended that you check your hot water heater on a regular basis, especially if it's in your attic. When your hot water heater is in your attic it is even more important to keep a maintenance schedule and to stick to that schedule. If your hot water heater is slowly leaking, it won't take much time for the pan to begin to overflow from a 50 gallon water tank. The bottom of the water tank can then rust. Also, the leak can cause moisture in the air that can then cause mold!
Things we don't see often, or ever for that matter are easy to forget! If you are a victim of a hot water heater water damage, call us at SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties today! (662) 349-6500.
Reduce your risk of mold: Check for leaky appliances
Leaky appliances in your home can lead to extensive water damage and even mold growth if not taken care of quickly. If the conditions are right, it only takes 24-48 hours for mold to start growing. By keeping an eye on your appliances, you can help catch leaks early and reduce the risk of mold growth.
Follow these tips to help reduce the risk of leaky appliances and pipes in your home and reduce your risk of mold growth.
Regularly check your washing machine, dishwasher, refrigerator, water heater, sinks and toilets for signs of leaks.
Routinely check for leaky pipes, appliance hoses and faucets.
If you see signs of leaks, such as condensation or water collecting anywhere, dry it quickly and find the source of the leak and fix it.
Fix plumbing problems immediately.
Monitor your utility bills each month. An unusually high water bill can be a sign of an unseen leak.
By keeping an eye out for leaks from appliances and other water sources in your home, you can catch leaks early and reduce the risk of water damage and mold growth. If you do encounter mold growth or other water damage, give us a call at 662-349-6500. SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties can make it “Like it never even happened.”
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties is committed to providing fire and water cleanup and restoration services to reduce business interruptions and recovery costs. SERVPRO can provide:
Over 40 years of experience as leading fire and water cleanup and restoration providers.
A SERVPRO franchise nearby - more than 1,500 franchises servicing 48 states.
More locations for faster responses.
Quick response time to help ensure the damage is contained and the restoration process begins promptly.
Large loss capabilities - no fire or water damage is too big.
As many as 50% of businesses close down following a disaster, according to the latest 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. And knowing you are "Ready for whatever happens" speaks trust to your clients and employees that in the event you business is affected by a disaster, they don't necessarily have to be.
By developing a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile for your business, you help to minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Know what to do, who to call and what to expect in advance is helpful in receiving timely mitigation and can help minimize the affects water and fire damage can have on your business.
Water damage is a serious issue that you need to deal with promptly when it happens.
There are some things you can do on your own to help while waiting for professionals and those tasks are in our previous post of do's and dont's for water damage.
If water damage is not fixed quickly can destroy the integrity of your house.
Structural Damage
The biggest problem faced by homeowners after their houses are damaged by water is structural damage. It might sound obvious, but when your house has been hit by a lot of water the whole structure can be weakened. That’s particularly true in any area where water was allowed to sit for more than a few hours. If you have water sitting on the floors and on your walls for days, after a major catastrophe you could really be facing some serious structural issues. Hire a professional to look at your home and don’t walk on floors, else it could be very badly damaged.
Even if your home doesn’t have significant structural damage, being in a home that’s been badly damaged by water can create some other serious issues. Mold and mildew are the most common problems, and walls and floors that have been soaked by water can start growing unpleasant mold in just a few hours.
Homes in climates with high humidity are even more susceptible to mold and mildew.
Did you know that half of all home fire deaths occur in bedrooms? That’s also where most electrical fires start too. However, you can easily prevent bedroom fires by following these essential safety tips:
Don’t run electric cords under the bed or carpeting. Don’t trap cords against a wall where heat can build up. Keep cords untangled to allow heat to dissipate. Never overload an extension cord.
Always supervise space heaters. Turn them off when leaving the bedroom or going to sleep.
Install arc fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs) to prevent fires in electrical switches. They shut off the circuit when an unintentional discharge of electricity occurs in the circuit.
Install tamper resistant receptacles (TRRs) in all rooms if you have children. These devices prevent them from inserting foreign objects like hairpins into the outlet.
Never put devices that are charging under bedding. Leaving a laptop on the bed can also cause a fire.
Only use laboratory-approved electric blankets and warmers. Don’t fold them as it may damage the wiring. Never sleep with an electric blanket turned on and regularly check it for overheating.
Keep flammable objects at least three feet away from heat sources, such as space heaters, candles, and electronics.
Keep lit candles away from combustible objects like bedding, curtains, and paper. Consider replacing burning candles with battery-operated flameless candles.
Use only mattresses that meet the 2007 Federal Mattress Standards.
Don’t smoke in bed — you might fall asleep with a lit cigarette in your hand and it could catch fire. Use fire-safe cigarettes as they extinguish more quickly.
Install smoke alarms inside and outside each bedroom. Test Smoke Alarms monthly and replace them every 10 years. Replace batteries once a year.
Create a fire escape plans. Make sure each room has two exits. Practice your home fire drill with everyone in the home at night and during the day twice a year.
For professional fire damage repair or smoke remediation services, contact SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties today at 662-349-6500.
Unexpected emergencies like severe weather call for immediate action. SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate and Tunica counties knows immediate reaction to the disaster is important to helping you get your life back to normal.
Utilizing our 1-4-8 Service Response Guidelines we strive to:
Contact you within 1 hour from notice of loss to arrange for your service.
Be-on-site to begin mitigation services within 4 hours of notification.
Provide verbal briefing of scope to you within 8 business hour of on-site arrival.
Exceptions to our 1-4-8 Service Response times may apply under certain conditions, such as a local catastrophic event or storm situation.
We also perform pack-out services, which is removing salvageable personal property from the affected area for off-site cleaning and storage.
If you have storm damage to your home or property, call us today at 662-395-6500. Timely mitigation is the key to minimize secondary damages caused by severe storms. We are also a one stop shop. We can handle everything from tarping and board ups to all of your post construction needs as well.
The fall season brings cooler temperatures, beautiful colors, and an abundance of outdoor activities. But the season also brings many fire risks. Plan ahead this season to help ensure it is safe and fire-free.
Decorations
Fall decorations, like dried flowers, leaves and cornstalks, are highly flammable. Keep these and other decorations away from open flames and heat sources, including light bulbs and heaters. Since these items are dry, they can ignite very easily and spread flames quickly.
Have A Plan
Be sure you have a Fire Preparedness Plan and your family knows what to do if a fire breaks out in your home. Keep emergency exits clear of decorations so nothing blocks escape routes.
Protect your family by teaching your children to stay away from open flames. Be sure they know how to stop, drop, and roll if their clothing catches fire.
Ensure your smoke alarms are in working order and that you have an easily accessible fire extinguisher.
Make Halloween Safe
Remember safety first when choosing a Halloween costume. Consider avoiding billowing fabrics. If you are making your costume, choose material that won’t easily ignite if it comes into contact with heat or a flame.
It is safest to use a flashlight or battery-operated candle in a jack-o-lantern. Use extreme caution if using a real candle. Place lit pumpkins away from anything that can burn, and out of the way of doorsteps, walkways, and yards.
Be Careful in the Kitchen
With the holidays quickly approaching, your kitchen may be working on overdrive. While cooking, it can be easy to get distracted, especially if you have children. However, kitchens are a high-risk area for household fires, so it’s important to remain watchful.
Never leave food unattended while cooking, especially working with oil. Hot grease can splash and ignite. Keep flammable objects, like washcloths, potholders, and paper towels, away from the stovetop.
If a fire starts in your oven, keep the door closed. Turn it off and wait for the fire to extinguish.
Safely Use Your Fireplace
As the weather turns cold and brisk,fireplaces can bring a warm and inviting atmosphere to any home. However, if fireplaces are not properly cared for, they can lead to an increased fire and smoke risk. Make sure your fireplace is clean and well maintained and never left unattended when lit.
While you can take precautions to prevent fires this fall, sometimes accidents happen. If your home suffers any fire or smoke damage, call SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties.
After smoke or fire damages a home, it’s important to get it fixed as soon as possible. Call us at 662-349-6500, and we’ll assess the damage and make your home “Like it never even happened.”
Whether after a fire, storm, or other structural disaster, boarding up damaged property is a burden that no one should ever have to go through— especially if it's your property that has been damaged.
Boarding up damaged property incorrectly could cause secondary damages such as moisture or animal intrusion, making the situation even worse. The process of boarding up after an unexpected damage can also be as dangerous as the damage itself.
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties can board up your damaged property and mitigate and remediate the original damage, providing you with peace of mind while helping make it “Like it never even happened.”
We have the skills and knowledge to board up broken windows, damaged roofs, burned drywall or any other damaged entrance to your property. Whether the damage is from fire, flooding, or debris during windstorms, we have the experience to board up your home and secure it from further damage. And we are available 24/7, so we can get there before the damage gets even worse.
If your property is in need of any board-up services, give SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties a call at 662-349-6500. We are always here to help!
Financing options at SERVPRO DeSoto, Tate and Tunica Counties
If you have recently suffered through a flood, fire, or mold infestation, we understand that the only thing worrying you as much as restoring your home is how you are going to pay for it. Fortunately, we have some good news.
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties has recently partnered with the GreenSky lending company to help you put your Southaven home back together. We take the burden of removing mold, water ,and fire damage off your shoulders while our new partner lifts the financial concern.
We sought out this solution after assisting customers who tried to save money by doing the demolition, cleaning, and restoration themselves. In every case, the homeowners or residents simply added to the problem and found themselves with a larger bill; sometimes much larger.
GreenSky has processed over $8 Billion of installment loans to home and business owners who need help to put their property back to its original state. This Atlanta based lending business specializes in restoration based installment loans and has developed a system that lets them process the loans quicker than most other lenders. Depending on your need and qualification, you may get up to $55,000 to cover restoration costs.
Our office personnel have recently completed GreenSky’s financial and software training and can help you however you may want to make your application. The program provides us with several options: In our office, over the phone with GreenSky or filling out an online form that can be processed in just a few minutes while you sit in our waiting room.
The third option is an incredible mobile app. With it, one of our trained technicians can take your information at your residence or business and have you approved for an installment loan before we finish unloading our equipment. Within an hour or two, we can have you set up with an 84 to 96, month loan (7 or 8 years) at a payment that can be as low as $79 a month.
Once approved for a loan, there is no need to use it immediately. GreenSky knows that the restoration process takes time and gives you four months to use it. That gives you the breathing room you need to make the right decisions on repairing your home and whether to restore or replace your personal property.
At SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties, we do everything possible to keep costs to a minimum, but costs can still run into a year’s salary very quickly. For more information on what we can do for your home and how GreenSky can help, call us at 662-349-6500.
SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate and Tunica Counites is an IICRC Certifited firm.
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.
IICRC Certified Firms must
• Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.
• Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.
• Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.
• Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.
• Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.
The IICRC Develops The Standards For The Restoration Industry
The IICRC has been the driving force in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation. These IICRC standards take years to develop and require the coordination of experts in the field: manufacturers, industry organizations, insurance professionals, training schools, contractors, and public health professionals.
Every five years, the standards are reviewed and updated. The water damage restoration field changes rapidly with advancements in technology and science, and therefore the standards must evolve to keep pace.
About SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties 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 and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: 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.
6 disasters your property insurance may not cover.
When disaster strikes your home, Property Insurance, is supposed to be there to help you pick up the pieces. Most of the time, it does.
A Bankrate survey found that 81 percent were aware flooding is not covered by regular homeowners insurance. You may have heard earthquakes also require special coverage. Yet you may not know that there are other types of damage that are excluded from most policies as well:
Mold
At least 1,000 species of mold are common to the United States, according to the New York-based trade group the Insurance Information Institute.
Despite the threat, a standard homeowners insurance policy generally either limits coverage for mold damage or outright excludes it.
Some insurers offer an endorsement to expand coverage limits for mold claims but only if you are willing to pay more for your insurance, she says.
The best cure for mold is to prevent it from growing in the first place. If the basement floods after a rainstorm or a pipe is leaking, eliminate the moisture promptly.
Sewer backup
America’s sewer lines are rapidly aging, with some more than 100 years old. As more homes have been connected to these out-of-date lines, sewage backups have followed.
Other sources of backups include pipelines that handle both stormwater and raw sewage — and become overwhelmed in rainstorms — and blockages from tree roots that work their way into sewer-line cracks.
When a sewer backs up into a home, it can damage floors, walls, furniture and electrical systems. Standard homeowners insurance does not cover sewer backups.
The Insurance Information Institute says sewer-backup damage often can be covered for an additional premium of just $40 to $50 per year.
Sinkholes
Sinkholes can seem like something out of a horror movie. For example, there was the Florida man who was swallowed up in early 2013 when a sinkhole opened without warning beneath his bedroom.
Sinkholes are sudden gaps in the earth’s surface that occur after groundwater gradually dissolves rock such as limestone and carries bits of it away, creating large pores and cracks in bedrock. Once large cavities form underground, the land above it may suddenly settle or collapse, creating the sinkhole.
In the United States, sinkholes tend to cause the most problems in Florida, Texas, Alabama, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee and Pennsylvania, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.
Most home insurance policies will not cover damage associated with “earth movement,” such as an earthquake or sinkhole.
Florida is the only state in which insurers are required to provide coverage for sinkhole damage
Florida insurers must include insurance for “catastrophic ground cover collapse” — which refers to damage so severe, the home is uninhabitable — as part of standard homeowners insurance.
In every other state, earth movement is excluded from the insurance policy.
Termite infestation
Colonies of anywhere from a few hundred to several million termites can quietly and methodically devastate your home.
Wood, paper and dead plant material that is in contact with soil near the house provides termites with a ready source of food and an entry. And moisture accumulated around foundations and in poorly ventilated crawl spaces gives termites a source of water they need to survive.
Over time, termites can damage or destroy support beams and other wood features in a house. The National Pest Management Association estimates that termites cause $5 billion in damage in the U.S. each year.
If these unwanted guests cause wear and tear to your home, do not expect your insurer to bail you out.
Homeowners policies do not pay for termite damage.
Homeowners can avoid structural damage with early intervention.
Nuclear plant accidents
The Federal Emergency Management Agency, or FEMA, says nearly 3 million Americans live within 10 miles of an active nuclear power plant. If an accident at a nearby reactor leaves your home uninhabitable, standard homeowners insurance will not cover the claim. But that does not mean you will be unprotected.
A 1957 federal law called the Price-Anderson Act compensates people in the United States for any damage or injuries resulting from a commercial nuclear accident.
The law was called upon after the nation’s worst nuclear accident, at the Three Mile Island plant near Harrisburg, Pa., in 1979.
The insurance paid for the living expenses of families who decided to evacuate.
The Nuclear Regulatory Commission says an insurance pool of more than $12 billion is available to pay out claims.
Claims covered under Price-Anderson include:
Bodily injury.
Sickness.
Disease resulting in death.
Property damage and loss.
In addition, individuals evacuated from an affected area can expect reimbursement for reasonable living expenses beyond what you ordinarily pay. The coverage does not pay your mortgage, does not pay for your normal food bills.
Some acts of terrorism
The recent Boston Marathon bombings were a reminder that terror can strike at any moment.
The Insurance Information Institute says terrorist attacks using nuclear, biological, chemical or radioactive weapons are considered “acts of war” that are fundamentally uninsurable. Standard home insurance policies do not specifically reference terror attacks.
However, the policy does cover the homeowner for damage due to explosion, fire and smoke, these are the most likely types of damage a home would suffer in a terrorist incident.
If you own a condominium or co-op, the policy you carry on your individual unit will protect your structure and possessions from damage related to a terrorist attack.
However, damage to common areas — including the roof, basement, elevator, boiler and walkways — is not covered unless your board purchases separate terrorism coverage.
Why use SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate and Tunica Counties?
Why should I choose a professional restoration company for water intrusion/ damage?
Homeowners and business owners should not risk doing the work themselves as there may hidden water or moisture that can go undetected to the untrained eye. Taking into account that mold growth can occur in as little as 24-48 hours in the presence of moisture, undetected water damage can pose long term problems if not properly handled.
Due to the potential hazards associated with water-related damage, moisture and water should be handled by properly trained and equipped professionals to ensure complete and necessary drying to prevent future harm, extensive structural damage and possible contamination.
Improper cleanup could hinder property re-sale value.
Professional restoration companies have essential tools and techniques to measure moisture in the area to ensure proper and complete drying in a timely manner.
Water technicians should be fully aware of water or moisture-related characteristics to locate leaks or water damaged areas that may otherwise go unnoticed.
Homes and other properties are large and often expensive assets. Why run the risks associated with improper drying, deodorizing and disinfecting which can lead to potential secondary structural damage? Help protect your property’s value by calling the professionals at SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties.
Why should I choose SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties for water cleanup and restoration?
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties recognizes the necessity for prompt and accurate response and offer 1-4-8 Response Guidelines to help minimize additional, secondary or permanent damage and contamination. In addition, SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties is available for emergency response 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Knowledge and training are key elements in effective water removal and moisture damage. SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties applies their industry knowledge, training and understanding of how relative humidity, temperature, vapor pressure and air movement influence drying conditions.
Powerful and professional equipment is essential for proper mitigation and efficient restoration of water damaged areas. SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties is outfitted with state-of-the-art industrial grade equipment and products to measure the extent of moisture saturation and offer proper drying, deodorizing and disinfecting of water damaged areas.
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties offers content restoration to restore water damaged contents and personal belongings. Often when water damage occurs, personal possessions are also damaged by moisture. SERVPRO Technicians work diligently to try and return personal contents to preloss conditions.
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties works with insurance, real estate, contracting and property management companies to offer complete file management, estimates and detailed explanations of work, including status updates, changes and feedback to keep companies fully aware of a property’s drying, cleaning and restoration status. At SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties, we know you want quality information and proof of results. SERVPRO technology is designed to support your efforts!
Timely mitigation is key to the restoration process. Restoring property is the SERVPRO Professional’s first priority. You will appreciate the immediate response, and you will know everything possible is being done to limit the damage. Even if a loss is below the deductible amount, fast action helps assure the event will stay small!
Call SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties today at 662-349-6500. No water damage is too big or too small.
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties is committed to providing fire and water cleanup and restoration services to reduce business interruptions and recovery costs. SERVPRO can provide:
Over 40 years of experience as leading fire and water cleanup and restoration providers.
A SERVPRO franchise nearby - more than 1,500 franchises servicing 48 states.
More locations for faster responses.
Quick response time to help ensure the damage is contained and the restoration process begins promptly.
Large loss capabilities - no fire or water damage is too big.
As many as 50% of businesses close down following a disaster, according to the latest 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. And knowing you are "Ready for whatever happens" speaks trust to your clients and employees that in the event you business is affected by a disaster, they don't necessarily have to be.
By developing a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile for your business, you help to minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Know what to do, who to call and what to expect in advance is helpful in receiving timely mitigation and can help minimize the affects water and fire damage can have on your business.
SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate and Tunica Counties Construction Services
After a disaster—whether it be a fire, water, or storm—damages your home you will need to rebuild and restore. For decades SERVPRO has been known for their ability to respond to a disaster and fix your home to make it "Like it never even happened.”
The first thing you must do after a disaster is take temporary protective measures such as placing roof tarps to prevent additional damage, and boarding up to secure the building and remove water and debris. Mold, smoke, fire, and water damage all have their own protocol for restoration and our experts know how to tackle each problem.
Once your home or building is secured and the hazards are removed you can start the rebuilding process; from the structure itself to preserving and restoring the treasured items inside your home—including heirlooms, art, and family photos. The professionals at SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties can simplify the restoration process by handling both the initial damage mitigation and rebuilding the affected areas. Having one qualified company for the entire process can save time and keeps costs low.
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties can provide this continuity by supervising a full range of restoration services that will bring a building back to full functionality.
Board Up
Carpet Repair and Installation
Document Drying
Dry Cleaning
Drywall Installation
Drywall Removal
Electrical
Electronics Restoration
Fine Art Restoration
Furniture Restoration
General Contracting
Hardwood Floor Repair
HVAC Services
Move Out
Painting
Plumbing
Roofing Services
Tree Removal
And more!
If you are in need of construction services contact SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties at 662-349-6500.
Dry Ice Blasting is a revolutionary blasting method that uses dry ice pellets (CO2 in solid form) as the blasting material. The process is very environmentally friendly and provides a fast and effective alternative to traditional methods of cleaning industrial production equipment.
Dry Ice Blasting is a 3 step process:
1. Kinetic - When dry ice pellets are accelerated in a jet of compressed air and strike a surface at the speed of sound, they crack and loosen the coating of the surface being treated.
2. Thermal - The low temperature of dry ice pellets (-79 degrees C/-110 degrees F) makes coating brittle, cracks it and loosens it. This allows dry ice to permeate the coating.
3. Sublimation - Dry ice penetrates the coating and immediately sublimes (passes directly from solid to vapor state). This results in a 700-fold increase in volume, an explosive effect that lifts the coating off the surface.
The Benefits of Dry Blasting:
1. A dry cleaning process - Dry ice blasting is a completely dry process because dry ice pellets consists of CO2 and vaporize immediately on contact with the surface to be cleaned.
2. No waste disposal - The system produces no waste products. Only the coating that has been removed remains to be disposed of, and this can usually be swept or vacuumed from the floor.
3. Environmentally friendly - Dry ice blasting is completely non-toxic and no hazardous chemicals are used. Costs connected with the disposal of blasting materials and solvents are saved.
4. No abrasion - Dry ice blasting is non-abrasive and therefore surfaces are treated very gently. Wear and tear resulting from the use of steel brushes, scrapers and other blasting materials is avoided.
5. Improved production quality - Dry ice blasting often allows for your production equipment to be cleaned while in operation without the need for dismantling or costly downtime.
SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, and Tunica Counties also offers many other services:
RESTORATION SERVICES:
Fire, Smoke, and Soot
Water Removal and Dehumidification
Mold Mitigation and Remediation
Catastrophic Storm Response
Move Outs and Contents Restoration
Electronics and Equipment
Document Drying
Contents Claim Inventory Service
CLEANING:
Air Ducts and HVAC
Bio hazard, Crime Scene and Vandalism
Carpet, Upholstery, Drapes and Blinds
Ceilings, Walls, and Hard Floors
Deodorization
SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties is available 24/7! Call us today! 662-349-6500
Here are some tips that we believe will be helpful in preparing for severe weather.
TORNADOES
Tornadoes can strike without warning and destroy a community in seconds. Before a tornado warning is issued for your area, here are some things you should do:
1. Know your community’s warning system.
2. Pick a place where family members can gather if a tornado is headed your way. It could be your basement or, if there is no basement, a center hallway, bathroom, or closet on the lowest floor. Keep this place uncluttered.
3. If you are in a high-rise building and don’t have enough time to go to the lowest floor, pick a place in a hallway in the center of the building.
4. Remove diseased and damaged limbs from trees.
5. Move or secure lawn furniture, trash cans, hanging plants or anything else that can be picked up by the wind and become a projectile.
THUNDERSTORM SAFETY STEPS Thunderstorms injure an average of 300 people every year, and cause about 80 fatalities. Here are the top thunderstorm safety steps you should follow:
1. If you can hear thunder, you are close enough to the storm to be struck by lightning. Go to safe shelter immediately.
2. As the storm approaches, take shelter in a building.
3. If you are driving, pull off the roadway and park. Stay in the car with the windows closed and turn on the emergency flashers. Avoid touching metal or other surfaces that conduct electricity in and outside of the vehicle.
4. If you are inside, unplug appliances and avoid using the telephone or any electrical appliances. Avoid taking a bath or shower, or running water for any other purpose.
5. If you are caught outside and cannot reach a safe building, avoid high ground, water, tall, isolated trees and metal objects such as fences or bleachers. Picnic shelters, dugouts and sheds are not safe.
FLOODING Heavy rains could fill rivers and streams, bringing flooding to the area. If your neighborhood is threatened with the possibility of flooding, here are some things you should do:
1. 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.
2. Stay away from floodwaters.
3. 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.
4. Keep children out of the water.
5. Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize flood danger.
SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate and Tunica Counties is always here to help! Should you need help after severe weather please give us a call at 662-349-6500.
Water damage is a serious issue that you need to deal with promptly when it happens.
There are some things you can do on your own to help while waiting for professionals and those tasks are in our previous post of do's and dont's for water damage.
If water damage is not fixed quickly can destroy the integrity of your house.
Structural Damage
The biggest problem faced by homeowners after their houses are damaged by water is structural damage. It might sound obvious, but when your house has been hit by a lot of water the whole structure can be weakened. That’s particularly true in any area where water was allowed to sit for more than a few hours. If you have water sitting on the floors and on your walls for days, after a major catastrophe you could really be facing some serious structural issues. Hire a professional to look at your home and don’t walk on floors, else it could be very badly damaged.
Even if your home doesn’t have significant structural damage, being in a home that’s been badly damaged by water can create some other serious issues. Mold and mildew are the most common problems, and walls and floors that have been soaked by water can start growing unpleasant mold in just a few hours.
Homes in climates with high humidity are even more susceptible to mold and mildew.
Home Fire Preparedness: There are actually ways you can prepare your home for a fire. Here a few tips:
Install the right number of smoke alarms. Smoke alarms should be installed on every level of your home, outside each sleeping area, and inside each sleeping room.
Test your smoke alarms once a month. Change your batteries twice a year. We suggest changing them each time the time changes.
Have a fire extinguisher in your home, especially in your kitchen.
Teach your children what smoke alarms sound like and what that sound means.
Ensure all household members know two ways to escape from every room of your home and know the family meeting spot outside of your home.
Establish a family emergency communications plan and ensure that all household members know who to contact if they cannot find one another.
Practice escaping from your home at least twice a year. Press the smoke alarm test button or yell "FIRE" to alert everyone that they must get out. Maybe do this when you put new batteries in the smoke alarms.
Make sure everyone knows how to call 911.
Teach household members how to STOP, DROP, and ROLL if their clothes should catch on fire.
What To Do if a Fire Starts:
Know how to safely operate a fire extinguisher.
Remember to GET OUT, STAY OUT, and CALL 911.
Yell "FIRE" several times and go outside right away. If you live in a building with elevators, use the stairs. Leave all your things where they are and save yourself.
If closed doors or handles are warm or smoke blocks your primary escape route, use your second way out. Never open doors that are warm to touch.
If you must escape through smoke, get low and go under the smoke to your exit. Close doors behind you.
Recovering After a Fire:
Call 911. Give first aid where needed; cool and cover burns to reduce the chance of further injury or infection.
Let friends and family know you are safe.
People and animals that are seriously injured or burned should be transported to professional medical or veterinary help immediately.
Stay out of fire-damaged home until local fire authorities say it is safe to re-enter.
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties can also help you get your home and belongings back together after a fire. Call us today at 662-349-6500.
House fires are sudden and unexpected. Studies show that you may only have two minutes to escape from a home fire and get to safety, which does not seem like much time. However, Following these tips from the Red Cross will not only help you prevent house fires, but they will also help you prepare and make sure your family is safe if one ever does occur.
1. Get Rid of Fire Hazards
Identifying and taking the necessary precautions to ensure that you do not have fire hazards in your home is important. This means all electronic items that produce heat should always be at least three feet away from anything flammable. All space heaters and electric blankets should always be turned off when they are not being used.
2. Always Avoid Smoking in Bed
Smoking in bed is dangerous because of the possibility of hot ashes igniting your flammable bedding. It is also important to make sure all candles are put out when being left unattended.
3. Make Sure Your Children Are Informed
Talk to your children about the importance of not playing with lighters, matches, and fire. You can take an extra precautionary step by keeping all matches and lighters up high and out of reach or locked up in a place that your children cannot access.
4. Check Your Smoke Alarms
Be sure you have working smoke detectors on every floor of your home and on the inside and outside of every sleeping area. These should be checked monthly to ensure the batteries are working, and they should be replaces every 10 years.
5. Make a Plan
Discuss your outside meeting spot with your family and come up with an escape plan. This escape plan should be practiced at least twice a year, and you should make sure that every member of your family is able to escape in less than two minutes.
One pipe leak can result in major water damage throughout many rooms in a home. When a hot water heater leaks in the attic it can cause damage in several rooms below. Typically in these situations, you don't know there is a problem until it's too late!
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate & Tunica Counties is equipped to respond to these type of water damage the same day the job is called in. We will extract the water, remove damaged structure, and set up drying equipment. We will monitor the job daily until all structure is dry!
It is recommended that you check your hot water heater on a regular basis, especially if it's in your attic. When your hot water heater is in your attic it is even more important to keep a maintenance schedule and to stick to that schedule. If your hot water heater is slowly leaking, it won't take much time for the pan to begin to overflow from a 50 gallon water tank. The bottom of the water tank can then rust. Also, the leak can cause moisture in the air that can then cause mold!
Things we don't see often, or ever for that matter are easy to forget! If you are a victim of a hot water heater water damage, call us at SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties today! (662) 349-6500.
Whether after a fire, storm, or other structural disaster, boarding up damaged property is a burden that no one should ever have to go through— especially if it's your property that has been damaged.
Boarding up damaged property incorrectly could cause secondary damages such as moisture or animal intrusion, making the situation even worse. The process of boarding up after an unexpected damage can also be as dangerous as the damage itself.
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties can board up your damaged property and mitigate and remediate the original damage, providing you with peace of mind while helping make it “Like it never even happened.”
We have the skills and knowledge to board up broken windows, damaged roofs, burned drywall or any other damaged entrance to your property. Whether the damage is from fire, flooding, or debris during windstorms, we have the experience to board up your home and secure it from further damage. And we are available 24/7, so we can get there before the damage gets even worse.
If your property is in need of any board-up services, give SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties a call at 662-349-6500. We are always here to help!
As a homeowner, you do not plan for your home in Southaven, MS to flood, but if it does, it is important to know the critical first steps to take. Your home adjuster is tasked with assessing the damage, and there are a few key things you can document to assist with the analysis:
• Written list of all that is damaged or destroyed • Cost to repair or replace damaged items • Pictures of the damage • Estimate from restoration specialists
Structural Damage
If there is visible damage to the house itself, you need to make note of it. Make a list of every wall that has signs of water damage. Check your floor for warping or missing tiles. If there are cracks in your walls or in your foundation, put that on the list as well. Take pictures of everything you write down to back up your statements. It is advisable to contact professional water damage restoration technicians to get an estimate in writing of how much the repairs to your home are going to cost to give to your home adjuster.
Destroyed Possessions
The insurance claim you file is likely to include damaged items in your home. Make an inventory of everything that needs to be replaced as a result of the flooding. Beside each item, list when you purchased it and approximately how much it would cost to replace it. Keep the damaged items and take digital pictures so you can print them out or email them.
Once you have compiled an inventory of the damage to your home for your insurance claim, make a copy for your records before you hand it off to the home adjuster. That way, if there is a discrepancy between what the adjuster finds and what your records show, you have your own proof. Ensuring that you and the adjuster have the same information may help your insurance company settle your claim and get your home back to normal more quickly.
The fall season brings cooler temperatures, beautiful colors, and an abundance of outdoor activities. But the season also brings many fire risks. Plan ahead this season to help ensure it is safe and fire-free.
Decorations
Fall decorations, like dried flowers, leaves and cornstalks, are highly flammable. Keep these and other decorations away from open flames and heat sources, including light bulbs and heaters. Since these items are dry, they can ignite very easily and spread flames quickly.
Have A Plan
Be sure you have a Fire Preparedness Plan and your family knows what to do if a fire breaks out in your home. Keep emergency exits clear of decorations so nothing blocks escape routes.
Protect your family by teaching your children to stay away from open flames. Be sure they know how to stop, drop, and roll if their clothing catches fire.
Ensure your smoke alarms are in working order and that you have an easily accessible fire extinguisher.
Make Halloween Safe
Remember safety first when choosing a Halloween costume. Consider avoiding billowing fabrics. If you are making your costume, choose material that won’t easily ignite if it comes into contact with heat or a flame.
It is safest to use a flashlight or battery-operated candle in a jack-o-lantern. Use extreme caution if using a real candle. Place lit pumpkins away from anything that can burn, and out of the way of doorsteps, walkways, and yards.
Be Careful in the Kitchen
With the holidays quickly approaching, your kitchen may be working on overdrive. While cooking, it can be easy to get distracted, especially if you have children. However, kitchens are a high-risk area for household fires, so it’s important to remain watchful.
Never leave food unattended while cooking, especially working with oil. Hot grease can splash and ignite. Keep flammable objects, like washcloths, potholders, and paper towels, away from the stovetop.
If a fire starts in your oven, keep the door closed. Turn it off and wait for the fire to extinguish.
Safely Use Your Fireplace
As the weather turns cold and brisk,fireplaces can bring a warm and inviting atmosphere to any home. However, if fireplaces are not properly cared for, they can lead to an increased fire and smoke risk. Make sure your fireplace is clean and well maintained and never left unattended when lit.
While you can take precautions to prevent fires this fall, sometimes accidents happen. If your home suffers any fire or smoke damage, call SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties.
After smoke or fire damages a home, it’s important to get it fixed as soon as possible. Call us at 662-349-6500, and we’ll assess the damage and make your home “Like it never even happened.”
Leaky appliances in your home can lead to extensive water damage and even mold growth if not taken care of quickly. If the conditions are right, it only takes 24-48 hours for mold to start growing. By keeping an eye on your appliances, you can help catch leaks early and reduce the risk of mold growth.
Follow these tips to help reduce the risk of leaky appliances and pipes in your home and reduce your risk of mold growth.
Regularly check your washing machine, dishwasher, refrigerator, water heater, sinks and toilets for signs of leaks.
Routinely check for leaky pipes, appliance hoses and faucets.
If you see signs of leaks, such as condensation or water collecting anywhere, dry it quickly and find the source of the leak and fix it.
Fix plumbing problems immediately.
Monitor your utility bills each month. An unusually high water bill can be a sign of an unseen leak.
By keeping an eye out for leaks from appliances and other water sources in your home, you can catch leaks early and reduce the risk of water damage and mold growth. If you do encounter mold growth or other water damage, give us a call at 662-349-6500. SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties can make it “Like it never even happened.”
In order to be fully prepared, you should have all pertinent and proper information in a written plan for east retrieval. Some key questions to consider when creating a person preparedness plan include:
Do you have an escape or evacuation route in place?
Do you have a designated meeting place in case of separation?
Does everyone have a list of contact information including family members out of state who can serve as a point of contact?
Do you have a disaster supply kit with necessary supplies?
Do you have a first aid kit that includes necessary prescription medicines, over-the-counter medicines and basic medical supplies?
Do you have enough non-perishable food and bottled water?
Do you have access to important family documents, including insurance policies, bank, credit card, and loan information and family records such as birth certificates and social security cards?
Do you have an inventory of valuable household goods?
A well-equipped disaster supply kit should include, but is not limited to, the following,
Water - a large enough supply to provide each person with 1 gallon daily for drinking and sanitation.
Food - enough to last 3-7 days. Food needs to be non-perishable or canned food. You will also want to include a non-electric can opener, paper plates, and plastic utensils.
Bedding including sheets, blankets, and pillows.
Clothing - remember it may be warm, however, you may be working and cleaning and may prefer pants or long sleeves to protect your skin. You will also need sturdy, closed toe, non-slip shoes if available.
First aid kit including antiseptics or sanitizers and bandages, over-the-counter and prescription medications.
Extra flashlights and batteries. Oil lanterns also provide a good source of light, if available.
Toiletries including toilet paper and hygiene items. Hand sanitizers are also good to have on hand.
Battery-operated radio with extra batteries so you can listen to weather service announcements.
Cash - you will want some cash and small bills on hand as banks may not be open.
Emergency phone numbers and contact information including insurance agent and family contacts.
Tools, tarps, plastic sheets, trash bags, duct tape, etc. to help make minor repairs.
Important documents should be kept in a waterproof bag or plastic sealed container and should include insurance, medical and family records, birth certificates, social security cards, bank account information and a complete home inventory analysis.
Gas - fill you car's tank ahead of time if time permits. You may also want to fill plastic gasoline-approved containers with gas to store.
Pet care items including food, leash and a carrier or cage.
Don't wait until it is too late; prepare not to help protect your family in an emergency or disaster situation.
When you have a "Clean Water" water damage that is considered a Category 1 Water Damage. That water does not pose substantial threat to humans. Examples are broken water supply lines, tub or sink overflows or appliance malfunctions that involves water supply lines.
If you have a Category 1 or a "Clean Water" Water Damage at your home or business here are some tips to follow:
DO:
Shut off the water source of water if possible, or contact a qualified party to stop the water source.
Turn off circuit breakers for wet ares 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.
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 wood clothes pins to keep furniture skirting off damp floors.
Hang draperies with coated hangers to avoid contact with carpeting or floors.
Hang furs and 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 carpet to cause staining.
Leave Oriental rugs or other colored rugs on wet wall-to-wall carpets to cause staining.
Use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water possibly causing electrical shock or damaging the vacuum cleaner.
Use TVs or other appliances while standing on wet carpets or floors, especially not on wet concrete floors.
Turn on ceiling fans if ceiling is wet, or enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water.
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties is available 24 hours 7 days a week. Please call us today if you have a water damage at your home or business at 662-349-6500.
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate & Tunica Counties also offers the following services:
Unexpected emergencies like severe weather call for immediate action. SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate and Tunica counties knows immediate reaction to the disaster is important to helping you get your life back to normal.
Utilizing our 1-4-8 Service Response Guidelines we strive to:
Contact you within 1 hour from notice of loss to arrange for your service.
Be-on-site to begin mitigation services within 4 hours of notification.
Provide verbal briefing of scope to you within 8 business hour of on-site arrival.
Exceptions to our 1-4-8 Service Response times may apply under certain conditions, such as a local catastrophic event or storm situation.
We also perform pack-out services, which is removing salvageable personal property from the affected area for off-site cleaning and storage.
If you have storm damage to your home or property, call us today at 662-395-6500. Timely mitigation is the key to minimize secondary damages caused by severe storms. We are also a one stop shop. We can handle everything from tarping and board ups to all of your post construction needs as well.
Floods rank as one of the most common widespread natural disasters in the United States. Whether you live near a coastline, along city streets, in the mountains, near a river, or even in the desert, there is a potential for suffering flood damage. In fact, nearly 25% of last year's claims paid by the National Flood Insurance Program were for policies in moderate to low-risk communities. According to NFIP, houses in the United States have a 26% chance of being damaged by a flood during the course of a 30 year mortgage, while businesses face similar risks by flooding. On average, floods cost $6 billion in annual losses in the U.S. The following are a few more little-known flood facts:
Floods kill an average of 140 people per year in the U.S., making flooding the most deadly natural disaster.
More than half of the fatalities during floods are auto related, often the result of drivers misjudging the depth of water on a road and being swept away in a swiftly moving current.
The principle causes of floods in the eastern United States are hurricanes and storms.
The principle causes of floods in the western United States are snow-melt and rainstorms.
Underpasses can be some of the most dangerous places during a flash flood - especially at night, when it's difficult to see.
If flood damage to your home or business is not promptly mitigated, lingering moisture from floodwater may elevate the risk of mold growth. SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate & Tunica Counties can properly remediate mold damage in your home or business. Even minor floods have the potential to cause major damage to the structure when not treated quickly and properly, and the cleanup is often overwhelming. SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate & Tunica Counties is prepared to handle and size disaster and help make it "Like it never even happened."
For many small business owners, their small business is their livelihood. Any disaster that happens to hurt the company can be detrimental the owner’s finances in a huge way. One of the most common issues that many business owners face is commercial fire damage. There are many ways in which fire can affect your business. However, there are steps that a company can take both before and after fire damage occurs to mitigate any damage that a fire may cause.
Fire Prevention
Although it seems obvious, being able to prevent fire damage from occurring is the best defense against fire. There are many things that a business can do to increase their first line against fire issues. First, always use the highest quality building materials possible. Many new building materials are much more fire resistant and can end up saving a lot of money. They may be more expensive to put in, but if a fire occurs, they can help save thousands of dollars in repairs. Also, if your facility has a lot of employees, be sure to have safety meetings and discuss the ways they can reduce the likelihood of a fire taking place. For example, a cigarette should be disposed of properly rather than just throwing it on the ground or in a trash can. These steps can go a long way in reducing the chances of a fire. However, at the end of the day even if a business takes the necessary precautions, a fire may still occur. It is important to have a good plan in place and a company that you trust to help clean up the fire damages.
Fire Damage
Some business owners may thing that fire damage is something that will easily be cleaned up. However, there are often several layers of issues that the small business owner faces in the aftermath. Flames in a fire can cause damage to the exterior and the interior of the building. Sometimes there may even be structural damage as well. The damage caused by fire and smoke are a significant issue. Many people may feel as though the smoke just smells bad but it can cause long term damage as well. It is important that you work with a quality experienced restoration company to restore the building that was damaged.
Your restaurant’s nightly checklist has to be followed to the letter in order to keep your business in great shape and ready for the next business day. Every item has to be thoroughly washed and sparkling clean on a daily basis; the kitchen flooring, stovetops and ovens, utensils, pots and coffee makers…. And then there’s the front of house - bathrooms, host stand, and bar area with all your glassware that needs attention. But you and your team have it all handled, every day.
Flooring in a busy restaurant can be a challenge, as well. Many eateries choose to install hardwood floors, which have to be treated regularly to avoid damage from high heels, spills, and scratches from table and chair movement.
Perhaps, however, your establishment has carpeting. A nightly vacuum and spot cleaning will go a long way towards preventing potential mold growth and other issues that can cause unpleasant odors, but your carpeting will still need a regular deep cleaning to keep floors looking the way you want them to. With carpeting, spills on carpeting don’t come up quite as easily or as completely as those on hardwood flooring, and a carpet in need of deep cleaning can look dull and worn, with the colors no longer as bright and fresh; that can reflect negatively on your guest’s experience. Make sure a deep cleaning is on your cleaning checklist!
Nobody expected that the creek could rise that far. It never had before. Now, the house is a muddy mess of debris, water and extensive damage. For some people, moving would be the first thought that came to mind. However, others want to stay in their homes, repair the water damage, and live on in the house they love.
Flood damage is more than just the standing water left after the creek recedes. It's ruined carpets and furniture, wet plaster and more. Water in the home or business is just the start of the problems. Without proper clean-up and sanitizing, mold can grow, floor damage can be permanent and drywall can be ruined. It is imperative to immediately start the restoration process to help limit the damage and mounting costs. A call to a professional water mitigation company should be the first step taken by a home owner after flooding occurs.
Water cleanup begins with bringing in equipment to extract the water in the home. Pumps and specialized vacuums are used to suck up the water. Restoration is a process. Once the puddles have been cleared, the next step will begin. The water damage will be in the walls, floors and furnishings. Drying is imperative to help stop the damage and to prevent mold from growing.
Air movers, dehumidifiers and other equipment will be brought in to help dry out the water in walls and moisture from furnishings and floors. Thoroughly drying water in the home will save thousands of dollars worth of damage later.
Restoration from the devastation of flood damage is not an easy process. A professional service should be called to handle the process so that it is done correctly. For instance, not many individuals would know that after the water in their business is removed or the water in their home is dried, more steps are still necessary. Sanitizing the surfaces, furnishings and anything else the water touched should be done.
Water in the business or home could have left a foul odor. Professionals can remove the lingering odors left even after the water cleanup. Mitigation professionals know how to use fogging equipment and industrial air scrubbers to help remove the last traces of the water damage.
After the restoration process of water cleanup, drying, sanitizing and odor elimination, there is still one last step in the water damage mitigation process - repairs. Water in a business can damage walls, carpeting and flooring. Drywall may need to be replaced. Electrical outlets and wiring should be checked for damage. Water in a business may have warped sub-flooring, damaged floor joists and wrecked major appliances. Time is money, so flood damage needs to be taken care of as quickly as possible. Quick yet thorough mitigation will get a business back up and running after flood damage has occurred.
Storms, floods and even appliance malfunctions like a dishwasher overflow can cause homes and businesses the headaches of having to deal with the water cleanup process. Nobody wants to go through it, but when it happens a person shouldn't go through it alone. Professionals who know how to deal with the devastation left behind are the best option for a quick, safe restoration. Since professional water damage restoration companies have the equipment and training to handle cleaning, drying and even rebuilding homes and businesses, they should be the first choice for mitigation.
Sure, the damage is devastating and overwhelming. Of course, nobody wants to go through flooding and the after-effects. The reality is that these occurrences can and do happen every day. The good news is that there are people specifically trained to restore homes and businesses to their pre-flood conditions. Call SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties today at 662-349-6500.
As many as 50% of businesses may never recover following a disaster, according to the latest 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 and fire damage can affect your business.
Are You Ready?
Preparation is a key component for making it through any size disaster, whether it’s a small water leak, a large fire or an area flood. The best time for planning for such events is not when the event happens, but well before it happens. No one ever plans on a disaster, but you can plan for it. Now is the time to ask yourself, “Are you ready for whatever could happen?”
The SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile is a start up approach that provides the critical information needed to begin mitigation and recovery services. It is designed to serve as a quick reference of important building and contact information. By working with SERVPRO’s Emergency READY Profile, your business will receive the benefit of over 40 years of experience in reducing the impact of any natural or man-made disaster. SERVPRO® is a leader in water and fire damage response and can help you quickly get your property back in working order.
No matter how the fire started, a rush of emotions and feelings of panic seem to follow. After the calling the Fire Department to put out the fire, who do you call to help you clean up the damage caused by the fire?
SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate & Tunica Counties is here to help you any time, day or night. Here is an overview of our fire damage process:
ONE HOUR: Within one hour from notice of loss, SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate and Tunica Counties will contact you to arrange for service. You'll know help is on the way!
FOUR HOURS: Within four hours of loss notificiation, SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate & Tunica Counties will be on-site to start mitigation services. The key to reducing damage and saving money is responding quickly to your damage.
DETAILED EXPLANATION: A trained, uniformed and equipped SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate & Tunica Counties professional will walk you through the job process step-by-step, explaining what to expect and anticipated outcome.
PRETESTING: We will begin pretesting for restorability, working from the source of the damage outward.
EIGHT HOURS: Within eight business hours of on-site arrival, a verbal briefing of the scope will be communicated to the appropriate person, normally your adjuster or property manager.
CLEANING, RESTORATION, & DEODORIZATION: We will work neatly and efficiently to help you regain control of your property when a damaging event has taken over. They will use state-of-the-art restoration techniques to ensure your property is taken care of right the first time.
FINAL WALK-THROUGH: After the work has been completed, a final walk through will be conducted with your to help ensure your satisfaction.
Call us today at SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate & Tunica Counties at (662) 349-6500 for all of your fire restoration needs.
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties specialize 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.
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 restoration costs.
When storms hit Southaven, MS and surrounding towns 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 SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate and Tunica counties today at (662) 349-6500!
Halloween is just around the corner is and it is prime time for vandalism and pranks. If you are the victim of vandalism here are some tips you can follow:
DO:
Hose or wash egg damage from building exterior as soon as possible.
Vacuum glass particles from carpets and upholstery.
Save containers which reveal the ingredients of spilled inks, cosmetics and paints.
DON'T:
Attempt to remove ink, paint or cosmetic stains.
Operate damaged lamps or appliances.
Discard furniture wood chips, broken pieces from porcelain, furniture or art objects.
Call SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate & Tunica Counties today if you need help cleaning any of your valuable items at 662-349-6500.
We offer many services other than cleaning vandalized properties and items. We also offer the following services:
Ensuring your home has at least one working fire extinguisher is one of the first steps toward fire preparedness. However, these important tools can come in a variety of styles. Here are a few tips for choosing the right extinguisher for your home.
1. Consider the Chemical Rating
Many extinguishers include an A, B or C rating to help you know which home fire type it is rated for. The A rating is used for dry combustible materials such as paper or wood, while the B rating indicates effectiveness against flammable liquids. Both of these ratings should have a number after the letter. These numbers indicate the effectiveness level with higher numbers being more effective than lower. The C rating indicates that the extinguisher materials are non-conductive, and may be used in the event of an electrical fire. There is no numeral indicator for C ratings.
2. Look at the Valve Type
There are two types of valves your fire extinguisher may come with. A plastic valve indicates the extinguisher is disposable and will need to be replaced after time or after being used. A metal valve is used for refilling the tank when the pressure gets low over an extended period of time, or after use. Most extinguishers include a gauge to help you determine when a refill may be necessary.
3. Keep the Size in Mind
Extinguishers can come in a variety of sizes. The size you choose may depend on the location it is intended for. Large extinguishers should be kept in areas where a fire may grow quickly, while small to medium extinguishers are best for quick grab situations. In all cases you should know how to properly use your fire extinguisher and follow proper fire safety protocols.
Whatever type of fire extinguisher you choose, remember to read the instructions for its use. It’s also important to keep your extinguisher in working order by checking the pressure and age readings, and having your extinguisher refilled or replaced when needed.
For professional fire damage repair or smoke remediation services, contact SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate & Tunica Counties today at 662-349-6500.
Here at SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate & Tunica Counties we understand the importance of having everything documented. We however have the majority of our documents stored electronically. If you are someone who has paper documents and has experienced water damage you probably know that it can be a huge hurdle to get the documents back to a state where they can be read much less handled. This is where our document restoration chamber can be beneficial. We use vacuum freeze drying to salvage damaged items.
The vacuum freeze drying process is a process in which an item containing moisture is frozen and dried using various vacuums and pressures to achieve sublimation. Sublimation is the direct conversion of solid into a gas, without passing through the liquid stage. The benefits for using vacuum freeze drying are endless but it is the only method that is approved by the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) and the General Services Administration (GSA).
The process is pretty simple, first we will inventory all documents at the loss site prior to packaging. After we inventory all the documents we will package them for travel and freeze all documents to prevent any more damage. We will then ship them to our corporate office to be placed into the vacuum freeze drying chamber. Upon receipt of the documents they will either be placed in the chamber or placed in a cold storage unit until ready to be processed. After they are processed they will be re-boxed and sent back to us and then delivered to the customer.
If you find yourself needing these services please do not hesitate to give us a call to talk with a representative regarding the vacuum freeze drying chamber.
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties didn't stop using Science in school! We use it daily. Call us for all of your water damage needs.
Did you know there is a science behind the process of drying? Having this knowledge is essential to restoring a water-damaged structure to its preloss condition. While your initial reaction may be to grab a few towels to mop up the mess and place a fan or two around the damaged area, SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties Professionals are trained in the science of drying and follow strict industry approved standards to help lower the chances of any secondary damage. If your home or business suffers from water damage, our team will:
Inspect the building to detect every component that is wet to help prevent secondary damage from happening.
Measure how much moisture is in wet materials and monitor whether the materials are drying properly.
Speed up Mother Nature by using professional drying equipment.
What exactly does it mean to help “speed up Mother Nature”? A wet building can often dry naturally because the environment always seeks equilibrium. When materials are wet, moisture will naturally move to drier air at the surface of the material–but only if the air is, indeed, drier.
The only problem is, nature often takes too long and secondary damages may occur while the building is drying out.
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties has the tools and equipment to help Mother Nature along, including equipment to help dry hardwood floors, tough-to-reach spaces inside walls, and much more. Our technicians also use state-of-the-art monitoring equipment and a proven scientific process to help speed the drying of your home or business.
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties has the training and equipment to help make water damage “Like it never even happened.” If your home or business has water damage, give us a call today at 662-349-6500.
You may have taken measures to help prevent fire in your office, but are you prepared in case fire does break out? According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), U.S. fire departments respond to an average of 340 fires in office properties each year. Make sure your business is prepared for fire.
Check Fire Alarms
The first key is to have functioning fire alarms in your property. Smoke alarms save lives when properly installed and maintained, according to the NFPA.
Test smoke alarms monthly using the test button. Smoke alarms with non-replaceable batteries need the entire smoke alarm unit replaced every ten years. Other alarms need batteries replaced every year, and the unit replaced every ten years. If the alarm chirps signaling low battery, take the proper steps to replace the unit or the batteries immediately. Never disable or remove the battery from an alarm. Almost half of fires where smoke alarms were present but did not activate had missing or disconnected batteries (NFPA).
In larger commercial facilities, hard wired or wireless smoke alarms offer benefits such as not needing to be tested as often and activating throughout the entire building if smoke is detected in just one area (NFPA).
If you need help installing, testing or changing batteries in your smoke alarms, contact your local fire department, an electrician or the American Red Cross.
Create and Implement an Office Evacuation Plan
An emergency escape plan is not required for all businesses; however, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recommends building an emergency action plan to protect yourself, your employees, and your business during an emergency. OSHA suggests the following steps when developing such a plan.
Organize an Emergency Preparedness Procedures review with employees to review your company’s emergency plans. You may wish to select an individual or team of individuals to lead and coordinate your emergency plan.
Once a plan is developed, post evacuation procedures, including routes and exits, where they are easily accessible to all employees. Ensure all exits and routes are clearly marked and well lit, wide enough to accommodate the number of evacuating personnel, and unobstructed and clear of debris at all times.
Conduct office evacuation exercises and drills. Designate a safe spot outside of the facility where employees can regroup, recover, and conduct a head count. Once completed, evaluate how well the plan worked and if additional training or exercises are needed.
Create a SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile®
At SERVPRO of South Everett, we can create an Emergency READY Profile (ERP) for your business. When disaster strikes, you don’t want to spend time trying to figure out whom you should contact for what. Our ERPs include a detailed assessment of your facility along with a profile document and guide to getting you back to business faster after an incident. We even offer a mobile app for convenience. If you want to set up an Emergency READY Profile, call us today at 662-349-6500.
It is important to be prepared before a disaster like a fire hits your property. For the sake of your employees and your property, make sure your office is safe and prepared. If disaster does strike, SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties is always here to help. Give us a call at 662-349-6500.
Always be cautious and aware of the dangers of Carbon Monoxide.
You can’t see or smell carbon monoxide, but at high levels, it can kill a person in minutes. Often called the silent killer, carbon monoxide, or CO, is an invisible, odorless, colorless gas, created when fuels, like gasoline, wood, coal, natural gas and propane burn incompletely.
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), each year more than 400 Americans die from unintentional CO poisoning. It is estimated another 20,000 visit the emergency room, and more than 4,000 are hospitalized due to CO poisoning. All people and animals are at risk for CO poisoning, with some groups— including unborn babies, infants, and people with chronic heart disease, anemia, or respiratory problems— being more susceptible to the effects of carbon monoxide.
An excess of CO, leading to CO poisoning, can result from faulty furnaces or other heating appliances, portable generators, water heaters, clothes dryers, or idling cars left running in garages.
Taking some basic, precautionary steps can help eliminate the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Protect yourself by reviewing the following tips, provided by the United States Fire Administration.
Have fuel-burning appliances, like oil and gas furnaces, gas or kerosene heaters, fireplaces, and wood stoves inspected by a trained professional every year.
Open the damper for proper ventilation before using a fireplace. Never use your oven or stovetop to heat your home.
Make sure all fuel-burning vented equipment is vented to the outside to avoid CO poisoning. Keep the venting for exhaust clear and unblocked.
If you need to warm a vehicle, remove it from the garage immediately after starting it. Never run a vehicle or other fueled engine or motor indoors, even if garage doors are open. Make sure the exhaust pipe of a running vehicle is not blocked with snow, ice, or other materials.
Make sure vents for the dryer, furnace, stove, and fireplace are clear of snow and other debris.
Only use barbecue grills outside, away from all doors, windows, vents, and other building openings. Some grills can produce CO gas. Never use grills inside the home or the garage, even if the doors are open.
Use portable generators outdoors in well-ventilated areas away from all doors, windows, vents, and other building openings to prevent exhaust fumes from entering the home.
The following are signs that you might be experiencing CO poisoning. Symptoms of CO poisoning include:
Dull headache
Weakness
Dizziness
Nausea or vomiting
Shortness of breath
Confusion
Blurred vision
Loss of consciousness
Take precautions to prevent CO poisoning in your home.
10 Reasons to Use SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties
No job is too big or too small for the professionals at SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties. Call us today at 662-349-6500
People and businesses rely on SERVPRO to restore damaged property for many reasons. Here are just 10.
1. We Get It SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties understands your situation. You want to keep costs down, repair the damage, and get back to normal. Those are our goals, too.
2. SERVPRO Is Qualified Our repair and restoration team members have the best training in the industry. Our results will create a measurable difference for you.
3. We Respond To You Immediately You can reach us 24/7. When a disaster strikes we respond as quickly as possible. SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties can draw on more than 1,650 U.S. and Canadian locations to get the right equipment and right professionals to you faster than other companies.
4. You’re Part Of Our Team We work with you and for you. You are in charge. You receive a complete explanation of the work we will do and why it needs to be done a certain way. Like you, we don’t appreciate surprises.
5. We Use The Latest Technology The past few years have seen a rapid advancement in the technology and techniques used in the restoration industry. These advancements allow SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties to restore your property to preloss condition quickly, reliably, and more effectively.
6. We Practice The Golden Rule Of Restoration Restoring property is less expensive than replacing property. SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties professionals practice the golden rule, "Restore whenever possible, replace only when necessary." We make sure pretesting is completed on every loss to determine restorability.
7. For Claim And Other Purposes, Your Loss Is Itemized SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties can give you an itemized loss inventory. You will receive an Excel formatted report and pictures of important items.
8. We’ll Help You Prevent Losses, Not Just Deal With Them Our services start with prevention. We’ll come out to your business or home and do a review of how you can protect yourself, your family, your business, and your property from potential losses. That’s another old rule (from Ben Franklin) we like: An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Check out our SERVPRO Ready Plan.
9. We Handle Any Loss From A Natural Disaster—Big Or Small Have multiple locations? No problem. Suffer a small loss from water or fire or wind? We can handle it. Have a massive, complex disaster to recover from? That’s within our scope of services, too.
10. We’re Approved, Certified, And Experienced We’re trained to IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) standards in fire and water cleanup and restoration. Our professionals attend SERVPRO continuing education classes. SERVPRO has been in business for more than 45 years. Hard-earned results have made SERVPRO a leader in the fire and water cleanup and restoration industry.
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties Offers Finacing Options
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties is always here to help! We can even help with financing options. Call us today at 662-349-6500.
If you have recently suffered through a flood, fire, or mold infestation, we understand that the only thing worrying you as much as restoring your home is how you are going to pay for it. Fortunately, we have some good news.
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties has recently partnered with the GreenSky lending company to help you put your Southaven home back together. We take the burden of removing mold, water ,and fire damage off your shoulders while our new partner lifts the financial concern.
We sought out this solution after assisting customers who tried to save money by doing the demolition, cleaning, and restoration themselves. In every case, the homeowners or residents simply added to the problem and found themselves with a larger bill; sometimes much larger.
GreenSky has processed over $8 Billion of installment loans to home and business owners who need help to put their property back to its original state. This Atlanta based lending business specializes in restoration based installment loans and has developed a system that lets them process the loans quicker than most other lenders. Depending on your need and qualification, you may get up to $55,000 to cover restoration costs.
Our office personnel have recently completed GreenSky’s financial and software training and can help you however you may want to make your application. The program provides us with several options: In our office, over the phone with GreenSky or filling out an online form that can be processed in just a few minutes while you sit in our waiting room.
The third option is an incredible mobile app. With it, one of our trained technicians can take your information at your residence or business and have you approved for an installment loan before we finish unloading our equipment. Within an hour or two, we can have you set up with an 84 to 96, month loan (7 or 8 years) at a payment that can be as low as $79 a month.
Once approved for a loan, there is no need to use it immediately. GreenSky knows that the restoration process takes time and gives you four months to use it. That gives you the breathing room you need to make the right decisions on repairing your home and whether to restore or replace your personal property.
At SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties, we do everything possible to keep costs to a minimum, but costs can still run into a year’s salary very quickly. For more information on what we can do for your home and how GreenSky can help, call us at 662-349-6500.
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties is an IICRC Certified Firm
Call the professionals at SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties for all of your water restoration needs. We are always here to help! 662-349-6500
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.
IICRC Certified Firms must
• Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.
• Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.
• Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.
• Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.
• Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.
The IICRC Develops The Standards For The Restoration Industry
The IICRC has been the driving force in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation. These IICRC standards take years to develop and require the coordination of experts in the field: manufacturers, industry organizations, insurance professionals, training schools, contractors, and public health professionals.
Every five years, the standards are reviewed and updated. The water damage restoration field changes rapidly with advancements in technology and science, and therefore the standards must evolve to keep pace.
About SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties 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 and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: 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 Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties is always here to help! Call us today at 662-349-6500.
When disaster strikes your home, Property Insurance, is supposed to be there to help you pick up the pieces. Most of the time, it does.
A Bankrate survey found that 81 percent were aware flooding is not covered by regular homeowners insurance. You may have heard earthquakes also require special coverage. Yet you may not know that there are other types of damage that are excluded from most policies as well:
Mold
At least 1,000 species of mold are common to the United States, according to the New York-based trade group the Insurance Information Institute.
Despite the threat, a standard homeowners insurance policy generally either limits coverage for mold damage or outright excludes it.
Some insurers offer an endorsement to expand coverage limits for mold claims but only if you are willing to pay more for your insurance, she says.
The best cure for mold is to prevent it from growing in the first place. If the basement floods after a rainstorm or a pipe is leaking, eliminate the moisture promptly.
Sewer backup
America’s sewer lines are rapidly aging, with some more than 100 years old. As more homes have been connected to these out-of-date lines, sewage backups have followed.
Other sources of backups include pipelines that handle both stormwater and raw sewage — and become overwhelmed in rainstorms — and blockages from tree roots that work their way into sewer-line cracks.
When a sewer backs up into a home, it can damage floors, walls, furniture and electrical systems. Standard homeowners insurance does not cover sewer backups.
The Insurance Information Institute says sewer-backup damage often can be covered for an additional premium of just $40 to $50 per year.
Sinkholes
Sinkholes can seem like something out of a horror movie. For example, there was the Florida man who was swallowed up in early 2013 when a sinkhole opened without warning beneath his bedroom.
Sinkholes are sudden gaps in the earth’s surface that occur after groundwater gradually dissolves rock such as limestone and carries bits of it away, creating large pores and cracks in bedrock. Once large cavities form underground, the land above it may suddenly settle or collapse, creating the sinkhole.
In the United States, sinkholes tend to cause the most problems in Florida, Texas, Alabama, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee and Pennsylvania, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.
Most home insurance policies will not cover damage associated with “earth movement,” such as an earthquake or sinkhole.
Florida is the only state in which insurers are required to provide coverage for sinkhole damage
Florida insurers must include insurance for “catastrophic ground cover collapse” — which refers to damage so severe, the home is uninhabitable — as part of standard homeowners insurance.
In every other state, earth movement is excluded from the insurance policy.
Termite infestation
Colonies of anywhere from a few hundred to several million termites can quietly and methodically devastate your home.
Wood, paper and dead plant material that is in contact with soil near the house provides termites with a ready source of food and an entry. And moisture accumulated around foundations and in poorly ventilated crawl spaces gives termites a source of water they need to survive.
Over time, termites can damage or destroy support beams and other wood features in a house. The National Pest Management Association estimates that termites cause $5 billion in damage in the U.S. each year.
If these unwanted guests cause wear and tear to your home, do not expect your insurer to bail you out.
Homeowners policies do not pay for termite damage.
Homeowners can avoid structural damage with early intervention.
Nuclear plant accidents
The Federal Emergency Management Agency, or FEMA, says nearly 3 million Americans live within 10 miles of an active nuclear power plant. If an accident at a nearby reactor leaves your home uninhabitable, standard homeowners insurance will not cover the claim. But that does not mean you will be unprotected.
A 1957 federal law called the Price-Anderson Act compensates people in the United States for any damage or injuries resulting from a commercial nuclear accident.
The law was called upon after the nation’s worst nuclear accident, at the Three Mile Island plant near Harrisburg, Pa., in 1979.
The insurance paid for the living expenses of families who decided to evacuate.
The Nuclear Regulatory Commission says an insurance pool of more than $12 billion is available to pay out claims.
Claims covered under Price-Anderson include:
Bodily injury.
Sickness.
Disease resulting in death.
Property damage and loss.
In addition, individuals evacuated from an affected area can expect reimbursement for reasonable living expenses beyond what you ordinarily pay. The coverage does not pay your mortgage, does not pay for your normal food bills.
Some acts of terrorism
The recent Boston Marathon bombings were a reminder that terror can strike at any moment.
The Insurance Information Institute says terrorist attacks using nuclear, biological, chemical or radioactive weapons are considered “acts of war” that are fundamentally uninsurable. Standard home insurance policies do not specifically reference terror attacks.
However, the policy does cover the homeowner for damage due to explosion, fire and smoke, these are the most likely types of damage a home would suffer in a terrorist incident.
If you own a condominium or co-op, the policy you carry on your individual unit will protect your structure and possessions from damage related to a terrorist attack.
However, damage to common areas — including the roof, basement, elevator, boiler and walkways — is not covered unless your board purchases separate terrorism coverage.
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties is always here to help! Call us 24/7 at 662-349-6500.
Rapid Response Recovery Time
Why should I choose a professional restoration company for water intrusion/ damage?
Homeowners and business owners should not risk doing the work themselves as there may hidden water or moisture that can go undetected to the untrained eye. Taking into account that mold growth can occur in as little as 24-48 hours in the presence of moisture, undetected water damage can pose long term problems if not properly handled.
Due to the potential hazards associated with water-related damage, moisture and water should be handled by properly trained and equipped professionals to ensure complete and necessary drying to prevent future harm, extensive structural damage and possible contamination.
Improper cleanup could hinder property re-sale value.
Professional restoration companies have essential tools and techniques to measure moisture in the area to ensure proper and complete drying in a timely manner.
Water technicians should be fully aware of water or moisture-related characteristics to locate leaks or water damaged areas that may otherwise go unnoticed.
Homes and other properties are large and often expensive assets. Why run the risks associated with improper drying, deodorizing and disinfecting which can lead to potential secondary structural damage? Help protect your property’s value by calling the professionals at SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties.
Why should I choose SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties for water cleanup and restoration?
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties recognizes the necessity for prompt and accurate response and offer 1-4-8 Response Guidelines to help minimize additional, secondary or permanent damage and contamination. In addition, SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties is available for emergency response 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Knowledge and training are key elements in effective water removal and moisture damage. SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties applies their industry knowledge, training and understanding of how relative humidity, temperature, vapor pressure and air movement influence drying conditions.
Powerful and professional equipment is essential for proper mitigation and efficient restoration of water damaged areas. SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties is outfitted with state-of-the-art industrial grade equipment and products to measure the extent of moisture saturation and offer proper drying, deodorizing and disinfecting of water damaged areas.
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties offers content restoration to restore water damaged contents and personal belongings. Often when water damage occurs, personal possessions are also damaged by moisture. SERVPRO Technicians work diligently to try and return personal contents to preloss conditions.
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties works with insurance, real estate, contracting and property management companies to offer complete file management, estimates and detailed explanations of work, including status updates, changes and feedback to keep companies fully aware of a property’s drying, cleaning and restoration status. At SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties, we know you want quality information and proof of results. SERVPRO technology is designed to support your efforts!
Timely mitigation is key to the restoration process. Restoring property is the SERVPRO Professional’s first priority. You will appreciate the immediate response, and you will know everything possible is being done to limit the damage. Even if a loss is below the deductible amount, fast action helps assure the event will stay small!
Call SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties today at 662-349-6500. No water damage is too big or too small.
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties is committed to providing fire and water cleanup and restoration services to reduce business interruptions and recovery costs. SERVPRO can provide:
Over 40 years of experience as leading fire and water cleanup and restoration providers.
A SERVPRO franchise nearby - more than 1,500 franchises servicing 48 states.
More locations for faster responses.
Quick response time to help ensure the damage is contained and the restoration process begins promptly.
Large loss capabilities - no fire or water damage is too big.
As many as 50% of businesses close down following a disaster, according to the latest 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. And knowing you are "Ready for whatever happens" speaks trust to your clients and employees that in the event you business is affected by a disaster, they don't necessarily have to be.
By developing a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile for your business, you help to minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Know what to do, who to call and what to expect in advance is helpful in receiving timely mitigation and can help minimize the affects water and fire damage can have on your business.
SERVPRO of Desoto/Tate & Tunica Counties Construction Services
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties can take care of your loss from beginnning to end. Call us today at 662-349-6500.
Rebuilding after a disaster.
After a disaster—whether it be a fire, water, or storm—damages your home you will need to rebuild and restore. For decades SERVPRO has been known for their ability to respond to a disaster and fix your home to make it "Like it never even happened.”
The first thing you must do after a disaster is take temporary protective measures such as placing roof tarps to prevent additional damage, and boarding up to secure the building and remove water and debris. Mold, smoke, fire, and water damage all have their own protocol for restoration and our experts know how to tackle each problem.
Once your home or building is secured and the hazards are removed you can start the rebuilding process; from the structure itself to preserving and restoring the treasured items inside your home—including heirlooms, art, and family photos. The professionals at SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties can simplify the restoration process by handling both the initial damage mitigation and rebuilding the affected areas. Having one qualified company for the entire process can save time and keeps costs low.
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties can provide this continuity by supervising a full range of restoration services that will bring a building back to full functionality.
Board Up
Carpet Repair and Installation
Document Drying
Dry Cleaning
Drywall Installation
Drywall Removal
Electrical
Electronics Restoration
Fine Art Restoration
Furniture Restoration
General Contracting
Hardwood Floor Repair
HVAC Services
Move Out
Painting
Plumbing
Roofing Services
Tree Removal
And more!
If you are in need of construction services contact SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties at 662-349-6500.
Reduce Your Risk of Mold: Repair Leaky Applicances
Call the professionals at SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica counties if you have mold problems. We are always here to help. 662-349-6500.
Leaky appliances in your home can lead to extensive water damage and even mold growth if not taken care of quickly. If the conditions are right, it only takes 24-48 hours for mold to start growing. By keeping an eye on your appliances, you can help catch leaks early and reduce the risk of mold growth.
Follow these tips to help reduce the risk of leaky appliances and pipes in your home and reduce your risk of mold growth.
Regularly check your washing machine, dishwasher, refrigerator, water heater, sinks and toilets for signs of leaks.
Routinely check for leaky pipes, appliance hoses and faucets.
If you see signs of leaks, such as condensation or water collecting anywhere, dry it quickly and find the source of the leak and fix it.
Fix plumbing problems immediately.
Monitor your utility bills each month. An unusually high water bill can be a sign of an unseen leak.
By keeping an eye out for leaks from appliances and other water sources in your home, you can catch leaks early and reduce the risk of water damage and mold growth. If you do encounter mold growth or other water damage, give us a call at 662-349-6500. SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties can make it “Like it never even happened.”
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties is here to help 24/7. Call us whatever your fire, mold, or water needs may be. 662-349-6500
The fall season brings cooler temperatures, beautiful colors, and an abundance of outdoor activities. But the season also brings many fire risks. Plan ahead this season to help ensure it is safe and fire-free.
Decorations
Fall decorations, like dried flowers, leaves and cornstalks, are highly flammable. Keep these and other decorations away from open flames and heat sources, including light bulbs and heaters. Since these items are dry, they can ignite very easily and spread flames quickly.
Have A Plan
Be sure you have a Fire Preparedness Plan and your family knows what to do if a fire breaks out in your home. Keep emergency exits clear of decorations so nothing blocks escape routes.
Protect your family by teaching your children to stay away from open flames. Be sure they know how to stop, drop, and roll if their clothing catches fire.
Ensure your smoke alarms are in working order and that you have an easily accessible fire extinguisher.
Make Halloween Safe
Remember safety first when choosing a Halloween costume. Consider avoiding billowing fabrics. If you are making your costume, choose material that won’t easily ignite if it comes into contact with heat or a flame.
It is safest to use a flashlight or battery-operated candle in a jack-o-lantern. Use extreme caution if using a real candle. Place lit pumpkins away from anything that can burn, and out of the way of doorsteps, walkways, and yards.
Be Careful in the Kitchen
With the holidays quickly approaching, your kitchen may be working on overdrive. While cooking, it can be easy to get distracted, especially if you have children. However, kitchens are a high-risk area for household fires, so it’s important to remain watchful.
Never leave food unattended while cooking, especially working with oil. Hot grease can splash and ignite. Keep flammable objects, like washcloths, potholders, and paper towels, away from the stovetop.
If a fire starts in your oven, keep the door closed. Turn it off and wait for the fire to extinguish.
Safely Use Your Fireplace
As the weather turns cold and brisk,fireplaces can bring a warm and inviting atmosphere to any home. However, if fireplaces are not properly cared for, they can lead to an increased fire and smoke risk. Make sure your fireplace is clean and well maintained and never left unattended when lit.
While you can take precautions to prevent fires this fall, sometimes accidents happen. If your home suffers any fire or smoke damage, call SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties.
After smoke or fire damages a home, it’s important to get it fixed as soon as possible. Call us at 662-349-6500, and we’ll assess the damage and make your home “Like it never even happened.”
No job is too big, and no job is too small. SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties is always here to help! 662-349-6500.
Last month, Hurricane Florence brought two feet of water to the two states in just three days. Hurricane Florence rained more in one hour over the city than the area typically gets during the entire month of September. This record amount of rainfall left countless homes severely damaged or completely washed away.
After the rain stopped, everyone got to work picking up the pieces of their homes and businesses to begin getting things back to normal. During this time, local SERVPRO teams were so over-encumbered they called in other SERVPRO teams from all over the country to aid in clean-up and restoration. SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties was one of hundreds of teams who responded to the call.
We loaded up SERVPRO trucks and vans and made our way through to the Carolinas. Over the weeks that followed, we helped many families get their lives back to normal by drying hardwood floors, tearing out carpets, and ripping out soggy drywall.
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties is proud to be part of the Storm Response Team Caring for the Carolinas. Faster to any size disaster, SERVPRO of Tupelo will make it "Like it never even happened."
Give us a call at 662-349-6500. We are always here to help
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties is always here to help. Call us 24/7 at 662-349-6500.
As a homeowner, you do not plan for your home in Olive Branch, MS to flood, but if it does, it is important to know the critical first steps to take. Your home adjuster is tasked with assessing the damage, and there are a few key things you can document to assist with the analysis:
• Written list of all that is damaged or destroyed • Cost to repair or replace damaged items • Pictures of the damage • Estimate from restoration specialists
Structural Damage
If there is visible damage to the house itself, you need to make note of it. Make a list of every wall that has signs of water damage. Check your floor for warping or missing tiles. If there are cracks in your walls or in your foundation, put that on the list as well. Take pictures of everything you write down to back up your statements. It is advisable to contact professional water damage restoration technicians to get an estimate in writing of how much the repairs to your home are going to cost to give to your home adjuster.
Destroyed Possessions
The insurance claim you file is likely to include damaged items in your home. Make an inventory of everything that needs to be replaced as a result of the flooding. Beside each item, list when you purchased it and approximately how much it would cost to replace it. Keep the damaged items and take digital pictures so you can print them out or email them.
Once you have compiled an inventory of the damage to your home for your insurance claim, make a copy for your records before you hand it off to the home adjuster. That way, if there is a discrepancy between what the adjuster finds and what your records show, you have your own proof. Ensuring that you and the adjuster have the same information may help your insurance company settle your claim and get your home back to normal more quickly.
Leave the Hassle of Board-Ups To the Professionals
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties can take care of boarding up your property after a storm or fire. Call us 24/7 at 662-349-6500.
Whether after a fire, storm, or other structural disaster, boarding up damaged property is a burden that no one should ever have to go through— especially if it's your property that has been damaged.
Boarding up damaged property incorrectly could cause secondary damages such as moisture or animal intrusion, making the situation even worse. The process of boarding up after an unexpected damage can also be as dangerous as the damage itself.
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties can board up your damaged property and mitigate and remediate the original damage, providing you with peace of mind while helping make it “Like it never even happened.”
We have the skills and knowledge to board up broken windows, damaged roofs, burned drywall or any other damaged entrance to your property. Whether the damage is from fire, flooding, or debris during windstorms, we have the experience to board up your home and secure it from further damage. And we are available 24/7, so we can get there before the damage gets even worse.
If your property is in need of any board-up services, give SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties a call at 662-349-6500. We are always here to help!
Weather models have flipped the switch': Hurricane season coming to life in the Atlantic
The sleeping giant may be about to awaken.
Hurricane activity in the Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea and Gulf of Mexico is forecast to ramp up over the next couple of weeks. "Weather models have flipped the switch on the Atlantic hurricane season and see multiple areas of development possible starting mainly this weekend," weather.us meteorologist Ryan Maue said.
One storm could spin up in the Caribbean over the next couple of days and potentially affect Florida over the Labor Day weekend. Looking further ahead, "there is the potential for two or three tropical features spinning over the Atlantic by the second weekend in September," AccuWeather meteorologist Dan Kottlowski said.
The next tropical storm or hurricane in the Atlantic basin will be called Florence.
One of the reasons for the predicted uptick in activity is that wind shear, which tends to rip apart developing hurricanes, appears to be decreasing. "There are signs now that wind shear may drop over a significant part of the Atlantic basin over the next couple of weeks," according to AccuWeather meteorologist Bernie Rayno.
However, it's still too early to predict exactly where or when any storm might form or whether a storm will affect land areas.
SERVPRO nationwide is ready for whatever size disaster.
The professionals at SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counites are ready 24/7 for your water damage. Call us today at 662-349-6500.
Water damage is a serious issue that you need to deal with promptly when it happens.
There are some things you can do on your own to help while waiting for professionals and those tasks are in our previous post of do's and dont's for water damage.
If water damage is not fixed quickly can destroy the integrity of your house.
Structural Damage
The biggest problem faced by homeowners after their houses are damaged by water is structural damage. It might sound obvious, but when your house has been hit by a lot of water the whole structure can be weakened. That’s particularly true in any area where water was allowed to sit for more than a few hours. If you have water sitting on the floors and on your walls for days, after a major catastrophe you could really be facing some serious structural issues. Hire a professional to look at your home and don’t walk on floors, else it could be very badly damaged.
Even if your home doesn’t have significant structural damage, being in a home that’s been badly damaged by water can create some other serious issues. Mold and mildew are the most common problems, and walls and floors that have been soaked by water can start growing unpleasant mold in just a few hours.
Homes in climates with high humidity are even more susceptible to mold and mildew.
SERVPRO can handle everything from emergency board up to mitigation to post construction. Call us today at 662-349-6500.
Unexpected emergencies like severe weather call for immediate action. SERVPRO of Tupelo knows immediate reaction to the disaster is important to helping you get your life back to normal.
Utilizing our 1-4-8 Service Response Guidelines we strive to:
Contact you within 1 hour from notice of loss to arrange for your service.
Be-on-site to begin mitigation services within 4 hours of notification.
Provide verbal briefing of scope to you within 8 business hour of on-site arrival.
Exceptions to our 1-4-8 Service Response times may apply under certain conditions, such as a local catastrophic event or storm situation.
We also perform pack-out services, which is removing salvageable personal property from the affected area for off-site cleaning and storage.
If you have storm damage to your home or property, call us today 662-395-6500. Timely mitigation is the key to minimize secondary damages caused by severe storms. We are also a one stop shop. We can handle everything from tarping and board ups to all of your post construction needs as well.
Let the professionals at SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties handle your fire damage today. 662-349-6500. We are always here to help!
The first 48 hours after fire damage occurs can make the difference between restoring versus replacing your property and personal belongings. SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties can help prevent fire damage from creating long-term problems. Our trained professionals provide timely response with mitigation services ranging from fire, smoke and soot removal to contents claims inventory and document restoration. These services help ensure your property, belongings and memories are restored to preloss condition when possible.
A back draft of emotions often sweeps over the homeowners after a fire ravages a home. Fear, uncertainty, stress and doubt about the future of the property can overwhelm the homeowner long after the flames have been extinguished and the smoke has cleared.
After the first wave of heroes have rescued the property, let SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties help you restore it.
So, before you risk doing further damage by attempting to clean up the damage yourself, call us today 662-349-6500.
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties is here for your business day or night. Call us at 662-349-6500.
For many small business owners, their small business is their livelihood. Any disaster that happens to hurt the company can be detrimental the owner’s finances in a huge way. One of the most common issues that many business owners face is commercial fire damage. There are many ways in which fire can affect your business. However, there are steps that a company can take both before and after fire damage occurs to mitigate any damage that a fire may cause.
Fire Prevention
Although it seems obvious, being able to prevent fire damage from occurring is the best defense against fire. There are many things that a business can do to increase their first line against fire issues. First, always use the highest quality building materials possible. Many new building materials are much more fire resistant and can end up saving a lot of money. They may be more expensive to put in, but if a fire occurs, they can help save thousands of dollars in repairs. Also, if your facility has a lot of employees, be sure to have safety meetings and discuss the ways they can reduce the likelihood of a fire taking place. For example, a cigarette should be disposed of properly rather than just throwing it on the ground or in a trash can. These steps can go a long way in reducing the chances of a fire. However, at the end of the day even if a business takes the necessary precautions, a fire may still occur. It is important to have a good plan in place and a company that you trust to help clean up the fire damages.
Fire Damage
Some business owners may thing that fire damage is something that will easily be cleaned up. However, there are often several layers of issues that the small business owner faces in the aftermath. Flames in a fire can cause damage to the exterior and the interior of the building. Sometimes there may even be structural damage as well. The damage caused by fire and smoke are a significant issue. Many people may feel as though the smoke just smells bad but it can cause long term damage as well. It is important that you work with a quality experienced restoration company to restore the building that was damaged.
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties is always here to help! Call us today at 662-349-6500.
With it being Summertime, you are probably thinking about sunshine. The pool is open, and the grill is being used often. It’s a great time of year!
But Summer is also a time for rain showers in most of the country, and one thing you can expect from summertime showers is that they come up fast and bring a lot of moisture with them! Here are some things homeowners need to consider:
Roofs and gutters. It’s obvious to think about the condition of your roof and rain gutters in the fall, before the winter weather hits. But if they are not well-maintained after snow, ice, and winter storms, a simple summertime rain shower can create its own problems for you. Inspect these areas closely in readiness for a downpour so that you can spend the rest of your summer worry-free.
Garden drainage. If you have planted vegetables and/or flowers this year, you will be looking forward to the yields this project will bring. Take a good look at the drainage surrounding any garden or landscaping area and make sure water can escape if there is an abundance during a summer downpour.
Outdoor furniture. Some summer showers can last for an extended period of time and that can wreak havoc on your outdoor furniture if it hasn’t been maintained from the prior year. There are many paint and finishing products available that will do a great job protecting your furniture from weathering.
Humidity. Summer rain storms can last for several hours, and even a day or two. In these weather conditions, you might feel the effects of extended rain showers by experiencing a higher interior humidity level. Mold can grow pretty quickly in these conditions! Investing in dehumidifiers for your home can greatly reduce the chances of a mold infestation and keep your interior air quality at healthy levels.
Here at SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties we are equipped to clean any size carpet. Call us today at 662-349-6500.
Your restaurant’s nightly checklist has to be followed to the letter in order to keep your business in great shape and ready for the next business day. Every item has to be thoroughly washed and sparkling clean on a daily basis; the kitchen flooring, stovetops and ovens, utensils, pots and coffee makers…. And then there’s the front of house - bathrooms, host stand, and bar area with all your glassware that needs attention. But you and your team have it all handled, every day.
Flooring in a busy restaurant can be a challenge, as well. Many eateries choose to install hardwood floors, which have to be treated regularly to avoid damage from high heels, spills, and scratches from table and chair movement.
Perhaps, however, your establishment has carpeting. A nightly vacuum and spot cleaning will go a long way towards preventing potential mold growth and other issues that can cause unpleasant odors, but your carpeting will still need a regular deep cleaning to keep floors looking the way you want them to. With carpeting, spills on carpeting don’t come up quite as easily or as completely as those on hardwood flooring, and a carpet in need of deep cleaning can look dull and worn, with the colors no longer as bright and fresh; that can reflect negatively on your guest’s experience. Make sure a deep cleaning is on your cleaning checklist!
Are You Ready? Download the app today and contact our reps at SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties to walk you through it. 662-349-6500
The best way to reduce interruption to your business following a disaster is to plan for it now! It is estimated that as many as 50% of businesses may never recover following a disaster. Of the ones that do, an overwhelming majority of them had preparedness plans in place.
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 and fire damage can affect your business.
Most contingency plans are made up of three main components: incident response, disaster recovery, and business continuity. The SERVPRO® ERP addresses incident response and disaster recovery. Think about potential disasters that could affect your facility. Now ask yourself: Are you ready?
Our SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile is a start-up approach that provides important information needed to begin mitigation and recovery services.
Why the SERVPRO® ERP?
A no cost assessment of your facility
This means there is no need to allocate funds, giving you a great value at no cost.
A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency.
It will only take a little time to complete and will not take you away from current projects. But it will save a lot of time if ever needed.
A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster.
This can help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive by having an immediate plan of action.
Establishes SERVPRO® of Tustin as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider.
You have a provider that is recognized as an industry leader and close by.
Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin.
This saves time so we can begin the work of mitigating the damage which can save you time and money
Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information.
Having a quick reference of what to do, how to do it and who to call provides solutions in advance of an emergency so that during the emergency you are “Ready for whatever happens.”
Call the professionals at SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties for all of your mold remediation needs. We are always here to help! 662-349-6500
The very idea of mold can make any home or business owner cringe. Yes, mold can be beneficial, used in making brie or penicillin, but it can also be a really big problem when it is growing undetected somewhere on your property or belongings.
It can grow just about anywhere: on clothing, food, paper, carpet and the backside of drywall, just to name a few spots. It can produce allergens and irritants and, in some cases, toxins that are dangerous to your health.
Here are four steps you can take to protect your business and employees from a mold issue:
Do an audit of your property. Are there any areas that are full of moisture much of the time? Seepage into storage areas or accumulation from leaky pipes should be dried within 48 hours to avoid mold damage. Encourage workers to keep wet items picked up, hanging wet coats up and keeping rain boots and wet shoes in an area that won’t soak up moisture. Take steps to keep floors and windows dry at all times, but especially during wet weather.
Proper ventilation is a good way to keep mold at bay. Keeping bathroom and kitchen doors open can help, increasing air circulation and aiding in the drying process. Using dehumidifiers keeps areas dry and pleasant, and always keep an eye on them to make sure they are in good repair and not contributing any moisture themselves; the manufacturer’s information provided will give directions on cleaning and care of your unit.
Many products today contain mold-resistant materials, such as sheetrock or paint. Shop around for helpful products when doing any renovation or repair to your Belle Meade business, especially in areas that will experience moisture, such as kitchens, break rooms, and bathrooms.
Monitoring the humidity indoors in your Belle Meade business can go a long way to mold prevention. The EPA recommends keeping indoor humidity between 30 and 60 percent; you can measure this with a moisture meter easily found at your local hardware store.
Call the Professionals at SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties at 662-349-6500.
UNDERSTANDING HAIL DAMAGE: WHAT TO SURVEY AFTER A STORM
Do you have hail damage? It is not that easy a question to answer. If your building has asphalt shingles or a metal roof, you may see dents. But, on a built-up (tar & gravel) roof, you might see few to no visible signs of damage. When do you need professional help? Three Helpful Indicators:
Hail comes in many sizes and densities, so it can be difficult to know when you actually need to be concerned about damage. Whether you’re staring at pea-sized hail on the ground or golf-ball size hail, here are some signs that indicate it would be a good idea to at least talk to a professional:
Damaged vehicles—If the roofs of nearby cars were dented, then there’s a good chance your building also sustained hail damage.
Damaged siding, downspouts or windows—If you are unable to safely inspect your roof, hail damage to other parts of your building, such as dented downspouts or siding, can be a good indicator you may need to take action.
Work on neighboring properties—If a neighboring building sustained hail damage and is being repaired, it’s a sign you should more closely inspect your roof and building.
You can never be too prepared. SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties is always here to help! 662-349-6500
House Fire Prevention Tips
House fires are sudden and unexpected. Studies show that you may only have two minutes to escape from a home fire and get to safety, which does not seem like much time. However, Following these tips from the Red Cross will not only help you prevent house fires, but they will also help you prepare and make sure your family is safe if one ever does occur.
1. Get Rid of Fire Hazards
Identifying and taking the necessary precautions to ensure that you do not have fire hazards in your home is important. This means all electronic items that produce heat should always be at least three feet away from anything flammable. All space heaters and electric blankets should always be turned off when they are not being used.
2. Always Avoid Smoking in Bed
Smoking in bed is dangerous because of the possibility of hot ashes igniting your flammable bedding. It is also important to make sure all candles are put out when being left unattended.
3. Make Sure Your Children Are Informed
Talk to your children about the importance of not playing with lighters, matches, and fire. You can take an extra precautionary step by keeping all matches and lighters up high and out of reach or locked up in a place that your children cannot access.
4. Check Your Smoke Alarms
Be sure you have working smoke detectors on every floor of your home and on the inside and outside of every sleeping area. These should be checked monthly to ensure the batteries are working, and they should be replaces every 10 years.
5. Make a Plan
Discuss your outside meeting spot with your family and come up with an escape plan. This escape plan should be practiced at least twice a year, and you should make sure that every member of your family is able to escape in less than two minutes.
No fire damage is too big or too small. We are always here to help!
Commercial fire damage repair may not be something you think you will ever need for your business, but the unfortunate reality is some businesses will experience a fire damaging event. Fires can be caused by an electrical shortage from overloading an extension cord to a lightning strike. Especially common are cooking accidents in restaurants. As soon as the flames are extinguished by firefighters, you may begin to worry what steps are required to resume business as usual. The best advice is to be prepared for this possible event and have a plan.
The Damage Caused by a Fire When you experience commercial fire damage to your business, you may reflect on the mess left behind in the charred ruins of the property. However, the damage you need to contend with will go far beyond the ashes. To repair the property entirely after experiencing a damaging fire, you will need to seek the help of a professional team like SERVPRO. Water may have to be extracted after the firefighters' efforts. The smoke damage may cause more of a problem that the burnt materials from the fire. While a fire may be contained in one area of the building, smoke can fill most or all of the areas, and it can cause significant damage and odors. Our trained Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technicians (FSRT) can resolve these issues. When smoke and water damage are dealt with appropriately, the structure will not show any aftereffects. "Like it never even happened."
A fire loss within your enterprise, whether a retail store, rental apartment building, professional office, or a warehouse, costs you customer goodwill and loss of profitability when business cannot be conducted. We can generate a corporate program called the Contents Claim Inventory Service (CCIS.) This report will categorize all affected materials, furniture and equipment, stock, electronics, and documents. We suggest what is salvageable, non-salvageable, or questionable. The final decision rests with you and your insurance company as to how we proceed. SERVPRO is a preferred commercial fire damage restoration company to more than 300 insurance companies, federal and municipal entities, and property management companies. We willingly coordinate efforts with your insurance adjuster to efficiently and economically restore your business in the best manner possible.
When to Make the Call After you have dealt with commercial fire damage, you may ask yourself when do you need to make the call to a professional for assistance. The time to contact SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties as soon as the fire is out. Our business is to get you back in business! Rely on us, 24/7 for an immediate response, by calling 662-349-6500.
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties is always here to help, no matter the size of the storm!
In some areas of the country, rain is almost a daily occurrence during summertime, and summer storm damages are something to be prepared for. Flooding can be a summer storm hazard, and that can be inconvenient and even dangerous. Possessions can be ruined, and the structures of homes and businesses can be negatively affected. A professional water damage restoration company can be a vital resource during such times; such companies are able to complete all necessary repairs in a timely and efficient manner.
While storms can’t be predicted much of the time,educating yourself on the most common areas vulnerable to storm damages will help you be prepared to handle such an event. Some areas of your home or business are going to be more apt to experience damage than others during storms, such as low-lying areas like basements and cellars which can be flooded.
Here is a list of the three most common areas that suffer from summer storm damages:
LOW LYING AREAS
Basements and cellars, the lowest parts of a house or building, need to be watched during wet weather since they have a number of easy entry points for water. If there is heavy rainfall during inclement weather, or if the building is near a body of water such as a lake or river, they are going to be in danger. Keep an eye open for cracks in the foundation, ceiling, and walls of these areas!
ATTICS, ROOFS, AND GUTTERS
A damaged roof, either from weather or fire, is susceptible to water damage, and the areas underneath it will suffer. A small leak can turn into a big problem before you know it. If rain gutters have not been properly maintained, you may experience some problems stemming from standing water - even indoors.
WINDOWS, DOORS, AND ENTRYWAYS
Keep an eye on your doors and windows. If they are not properly sealed against wet conditions, you will know it right away. Entryways are also a potential problem area; make sure they are free of standing water and debris so that people don’t get hurt.
Our team of professionals here at SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties are experienced in repairs and cleanup from damages caused by water and fire. You can call us at 662-349-6500. We are always here to help!
No job is too big or too small for the professionals at SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties. Call us 24/7 at 662-349-6500.
There’s no room in your house that is more prone to mold growth, and it is no wonder: most of the time, there is water everywhere in the bathroom! You need to practice preventive measures to ensure that your bath area doesn’t develop serious mold growth in one of the most-used rooms in your home.
Your bathroom has higher humidity levels than most of the other rooms in your house, of course, and surfaces can become moldy quickly if not kept dry. Once mold has established a hold on an area, it can come back even more quickly every time humidity rises.
Here are some tips to prevent mold from the start:
Use mold-resistant paints. Products of this type are readily available at your local hardware or home goods store. This is a great idea for your kitchen as well or for any other area that sustains a high level of humidity year round.
Call a professional. When doing any type of repair or renovation in the bathroom area, check with a professional to learn about products that contain mold-resistant ingredients, such as mold-resistant flooring and drywall.
Keep dry! Avoid leaving standing water in this area of the home, or in any other room for that matter. During floor cleaning, use less water than you might otherwise, and always dry off countertops after cleaning, paying special attention to cracks and crevasses.
Stay current on repairs and maintenance. Ensure that all window and door frames and weather stripping are in good condition prior to wetter and more humid weather.
Look for leaks. Keep an eye on the cabinets under the sinks and around the toilet for leaks from hoses and pipes leading to walls. Clean behind and underneath them well on a regular basis, and take a good look while you are completing this task.
Ventilation is essential. Ensure your bathroom area is well-ventilated; you can always use a dehumidifier if you feel it is necessary.
Keeping mold out of your bathroom will contribute to a pleasant overall experience in your bathing area; after all, this room might just be the busiest in the whole house!
Here at SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties, we have the experience, knowledge, and expertise necessary to help you with any mold remediatIon. We are also available for cleanup when you have experienced fire and water damage.
Say NO to Mold! Call SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties today at 662-349-6500.
Do you know where mold may be hiding in your home?
If you've ever dealt with mold in your the house, you likely know how unsettling it is. Regardless of your experience with mold, you may think that it lurks only in certain places. However, mold of different types can surprise you.
Coffee Machine
Every morning, you might pour water into your coffee machine as you eagerly await that cup of energy. While the water does find its way into the coffee cup, that doesn't mean the entire inside of the machine is dry. Mold can grow there, and this mold can enter into your morning beverage.
Kiddie Pool
During the summer months, the kids may love to take the hose and fill up the plastic pool in the backyard. The water keeps them refreshed and entertained for a significant period of time. However, you might skip over drying off the pool and find yourself in need of mold remediation services to combat it.
Bathroom Cabinets
Plenty of people have seen mold coming to life in the corners of their bathrooms, but the cabinets can also act as major spots for this existence. The mold may start to grow on or inside of the cabinets, requiring a call to SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties.
Refrigerator
Reaching inside of the fridge and grabbing some old food that has become covered in mold is an unpleasant experience. As much as you wipe down the fridge, you might have accidentally dropped some crumbs or pieces of food in the back of it at one point. Unless you are reaching back into the depths of the fridge on a regular basis, these crevices may have become dwellings for mold.
Water Bottles
Grabbing your water bottle before heading to work or school is a way to make sure you are hydrated, but you probably don't get every last drop of water out of it. Ensuring that the bottle is properly cleaned before your next usage is one way to make certain that you are not ingesting mold in a bid for proper hydration.
Mold can lurk in many places inside and outside of your home. Working with the professionals is a smart way to determine if you have mold living on your property and to figure out where that mold is coming from. By treating the source, SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties can help to ensure that the mold is away from you for good.
Water damages can happen to anyone at anytime. Call SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties today. We are always here to help!
Most of the time, disasters are unexpected. If you aren’t prepared beforehand for what can happen, your business may suffer more than it needs to.
STAYING DRY
The volume of water from a summer storm can present problems. Take a good look around your place of business; is the weater stripping in doors and windows in good repair for damp conditions? Do exterior doors fit tightly and close as they should? The roof of your office or warehouse needs to be completely watertight, as well, to protect machinery, product, and furniture from water damages.
The parking lot of your business needs to have a well-planned drainage system so that clients and employees can get to and from their vehicles safely. If people have to wade into your business, your floors will suffer, and a slip-and-fall accident due to wet floors can be a disaster for everyone. Make sure you keep an eye on potholes as well; even a small amount of water can dig a pretty deep hole in a very short period of time!
KEEPING AN EYE OUT FOR THE WEATHER
Rain gutters and spouts need to be checked periodically; if a rain gutter becomes clogged with debris like dead leaves or small branches, it won’t be able to drain away rain water. As water backs up, it will leak back into the walls of your building, sometimes without you knowing it, and you can find yourself with a mold problem.
Large trees on your property can become unstable if a large amount of water lands in the area. Do you need to take them out or cut them back so that they are not a risk factor? That’s something to consider.
Power lines and telephone poles near your place of business can be a possible issue. Contact your utilities companies and have them come take a look prior to wet weather to make sure you, your business, and your employees will be safe.
PROTECTING RECORDS
For your records, take pictures of your business, such as tools and machinery, furniture, and premises, so that you have proof of their prior condition for insurance purposes in case of storm damages. Save these types of photos to a CD, a flash drive, and/or the cloud for future access. Paper records will be lost if exposed to water; make sure that your hard copies are kept in a manner that will preserve them in case of any water damage. Scanning them and saving to your computer system is always a good idea, and backing up those computer records will keep your business in working order, no matter what comes!
Call the team at SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties for all your large clean up jobs! We are experts when it comes to fire and water damage.
Don't let your HVAC mess up due to lack of maintenance this Summer. Let the professionals at SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties help!
It’s always a good idea to hire a professional to come inspect your HVAC system; if any maintenance is needed, that same company can take care of it right away. You will want to have an inspection done every fall and again in spring, after the heavier use months during winter and summer. A professional will inspect and clean all of your unit’s wiring and mechanisms, which would be a bit challenging for anyone without the training or expertise. Using a professional ensures that the future of your business’ HVAC is bright!
As a business owner, there are several simple maintenance chores that you can do to prolong your system’s life and increase its efficiency between professional inspections and maintenance, such as:
Regularly:
Get a high-efficiency, pleated air filter for your system
Keep your heating units and AC free of pollen, leaves, and grass
Keep two feet of space clear around your outdoor AC and heating units
Inspect refrigerant lines every month
Replace air filters at least every 90 days
In the summer, turn off the water running to the furnace humidifier
In the fall, replace the humidifier filter and turn the water back on
Annually:
Replace the carbon monoxide detector battery
Make sure your outdoor AC unit is on firm and level ground
Clean AC condensation with a bleach and water mixture
Caring for your HVAC properly throughout the year will keep your work environment air quality and atmosphere pleasant, which keeps your staff happy and content. It will also save you money by improving and maintaining your energy efficiency throughout your building.
The team at SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties is always ready to inspect and maintain your HVAC system, and we are here to answer any questions you might have. We are also experienced in large cleanup jobs such as those needed because of fire damage or water damage, and we are pros at mold remediation. Call us today at 662-349-6500.
Let the professionals at SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties help with all of your fire restoration needs. Call us today at 662-349-6500
Fires are devastating in many ways, and they can destroy valuable items in your home or office. You may worry about important documents, such as birth certificates and social security cards. Knowing some important about document restoration can help you to restore those items in the event of a fire.
Take Precautions
Taking precautionary measures can better prepare your valuable items for document restoration. For example, you could store them in a fireproof box. In the event that they experience some damage, possibly because of a hole in the box, restoring them would likely be more of a possibility. You should also keep them together so that you don't waste valuable time trying to locate them after a fire.
Call Early
If you wait too long to call SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties, you may discover that it is too late to perform full fire restoration services when it comes to your documents. Recovering from a fire is often tremendously difficult, and you may not want to think more about the incident. However, by taking the time to call early, you can allow your family and home to start to heal.
Ask for Instructions
When you are on the phone booking an appointment with the professionals, ask if you should do anything to better preserve your documents. For example, if you touch damaged documents, the paper might crumble. The team may advise you to leave the documents exactly where they are, or you may receive instructions to handle them in a certain manner.
Maintain Realistic Expectations
In the event that an important document was seriously damaged, you may have high hopes that it will be restored. Keep in mind that an evaluation of the situation is one of the first steps. If the documents have been completely burned in the fire, restoring them might prove impossible.
Create a List of Resources
Before a damaging event takes place, work to create a list of resources with which you can consult in the event that the documents are beyond repair. For example, you can find out what entity to contact if you lose your social security card or birth certificate in the fire
Fires provoke fear in many people. You likely have your own anxieties about fires. One of these fears may relate to the potential destruction of documents. Fortunately, you have options if you think your documents have been ruined; you can call to inquire about restoration.
It may surprise you to learn that one of the leading causes of home fires is your dryer vent. When your dryer vent becomes clogged with lint, it is susceptible to catching fire. That can result in plenty of costly fire damage to your home.
There's a reason why clothes dryer fires are so common. Lint is actually extremely combustible. When it accumulates in your dryer, and the heat from drying comes in contact with it, it's little surprise that this material occasionally bursts into flame. Keep your lint trap clean!
However, this isn't the only way to reduce the possibility of a clothes dryer fire. You also need to check your dryer's vent hose. Make sure the hose is aluminum, and that it is not kinked or crushed. If the flow of hot air is obstructed, you'll boost the chances of a fire. You should also clean your vent line often. Lint can accumulate inside the hose, and that can also increase the likelihood of a fire. If you can't clean the hose on your own, hire a contractor to tackle this job.
Keep the area around your dryer clean. If your dryer does start a fire, you want that fire to spread as slowly as possible. Keeping boxes, clothing and other items away from your dryer will help keep any fire contained.
If you do suffer a dryer fire, know that you can call on the professionals at SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties. We can help with fire restoration efforts and with cleaning up the results of fire damage.
No one wants to suffer any type of fire. A fire that is as easily preventable as a clothes dryer fire, though, can be particularly upsetting. Make sure to keep your dryer's vents and lint trap clean to avoid these costly fires.
If your home is affected by a lightning storm, please call the professionals at SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties at 662-349-6500
Each year thousands of homes and other properties are destroyed or damaged by lightning strikes.
The first step to protecting your home is contacting a professional who is qualified to design and install a certified lightning protection system. It will be designed to control or force the discharge onto a specified path, thereby eliminating the chance of fire or explosion within non-conductive parts of the house such as those made of wood, brick, tile, etc. A lightning protection system is not intended to prevent a strike. Its purpose is to provide a safe path on which the current can be safely directed to the ground.
A typical lightning protection system
A complete system is made up of the following components:
Air terminals:Also referred to as lightning rods, these inconspicuous copper or aluminum rods are vertically mounted on the roof at regular intervals. The air terminals serve as strike receptors, designed to intercept the lightning strike.
Main conductors:Constructed of aluminum or copper, these braided cables connect the air terminals to the other system components and the grounds.
Grounds:A minimum of two ground rods, driven at least 10 feet deep in the earth are required for all structures. The ground terminations direct the dangerous current into the ground, to eliminate the chance of injury or damage to the structure.
Bonds:Bonding joins metallic bodies (roof components) and grounded building systems to the main conductor to ensure conductivity and prevent side flashing (lightning jumping between two objects).
Surge arresters and suppressors:A surge is an increase in electrical current due to a lightning strike on or near a power line or utility service. Surge suppression is installed at the electrical panel(s) to prevent the entrance of over-voltages which can cause a fire. Arresters installed at electrical panels help protect heavy appliances and prevent fires at service panel entrances. Additional devices may be needed to protect other in-house electronics. Surge protection devices are typically installed in conjunction with a lightning protection system.
Tree protection: The Lightning Protection Institute recommends that any tree taller than a home or within 10 feet of the structure be equipped with a lightning protection system. Trees do not offer protection and many homeowners choose to have trees protected for their own value. An unprotected tree in close proximity to a structure can also create a side-flash hazard to the nearby home.
Call SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties. No job is too big or too small. We are always here to help! 662-349-6500
What is the difference between a Flood Watch and a Flood Warning issued by the National Weather Service?
Flash Flood Warning: Take Action! A Flash Flood Warning is issued when a flash flood is imminent or occurring. If you are in a flood prone area move immediately to high ground. A flash flood is a sudden violent flood that can take from minutes to hours to develop. It is even possible to experience a flash flood in areas not immediately receiving rain.
Flood Warning: Take Action! A Flood Warning is issued when the hazardous weather event is imminent or already happening. A Flood Warning is issued when flooding is imminent or occurring.
Flood Watch: Be Prepared: A Flood Watch is issued when conditions are favorable for a specific hazardous weather event to occur. A Flood Watch is issued when conditions are favorable for flooding. It does not mean flooding will occur, but it is possible.
Flood Advisory: Be Aware: An Flood Advisory is issued when a specific weather event that is forecast to occur may become a nuisance. A Flood Advisory is issued when flooding is not expected to be bad enough to issue a warning. However, it may cause significant inconvenience, and if caution is not exercised, it could lead to situations that may threaten life and/or property.
No job is too big or too small for SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties. Call us today at 662-349-6500!
We experienced terrible winter weather earlier this year. There are things you can do to help prepare for this type of weather. When the temperatures go below freezing level, your property is at risk for frozen pipes, which can create a major disaster in your home or business.
Be Prepared
Know where your water shut off is located, in case of a frozen water pipe burst.
Insulate exposed pipes in your home or business, especially if they are in unheated rooms.
Open bathroom and kitchen cabinet doors during cold spells to allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing.
During extremely cold weather, keep a slow trickle of water flowing through faucets. Running water is less likely to freeze.
Consider shutting off outdoor faucets and open the outdoor faucet to help ensure it completely drains and the inner valve is shut off.
Keep your heat set to the same temperature both day and night.
If you plan on being away from your property for an extended period of time, leave the heat on and set the thermostat to at least 55°F.
Discovered Frozen Pipe
First sign of freezing is reduced water flow from a faucet.
Keep the faucet open when treating frozen pipes.
Apply heat to the frozen sections using a heating pad, hair drier, or another safe heat source. Do not use an open flame device.
Check additional pipes and faucets for freezing.
When a Pipe Bursts
Shut off the water at the main valve.
Call your local restoration professionals, SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties.
A burst pipe can cause considerable damage to your property if not addressed quickly. If winter weather causes water damage to your home or business, call SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties. We are available 24/7/365 and are always here to help!
Have you gotten your commercial ducts cleaned lately? Call SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties today. We are always here to help!
Sick Building Syndrome
In the 1970s, sick building syndrome became apparent as groups of people displayed similar symptoms of having spent extended periods of time in buildings with poor air quality. Good judgment and immediate attention can correct the situation and save you money in the event of litigation. People most at risk include:
Infants and children
Pregnant women
Elderly
People with compromised respiratory systems or asthma/allergies.
People with weakened immune systems
While molds are found naturally in the environment, an overabundance inside buildings is undesirable; some people can become ill. Experts disagree about the more controversial details of mold, but they all agree that if you have excessive mold, it needs to be removed.
Control Moisture and Reduce Mold
If you see mold, act within the first 24 to 48 hours.
Correct any water leaks or standing water.
Remove any standing water under cooling coils or air handling units.
Properly maintain humidifiers, if used.
Replace wet or visibly moldy insulation materials.
Proper Maintenance Saves Money
Estimates made by the World Health Organization say that poor indoor air quality costs $60 billion in employee sick leave and lost production.
Part of your responsibility to the tenants, workers and students who work and play in your buildings includes proper maintenance and prompt response to any situation that could cause illness or health concerns. SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties is available when it matters.
Clean Sweep for Ducts
When addressing air quality, inspecting the ductwork is SERVPRO of Tupelo's first order of business. Dirty ducts can work to circulate odors and contaminants like mold and irritating dust throughout the building.
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate & Tunica Counties uses a proven Portable Ventilation & Air Duct Cleaning System to examine duct work and make a clean sweep removing years of dust and grime.
The SERVPRO Difference
Reduce potential for mold growth
Remediate bacteria, fungi, and mold
Restore peak energy efficiency
Eliminate offensive odors
Call SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties today at 662-349-6500.
This is a dehumidifier that we use on nearly all water damages.
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties understands that using the proper equipment makes a measurable difference in reducing claims loss expense. When time matters, technology and equipment must be counted on to perform. SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties will answer you call with fast action, exceptional equipment, and trained, uniformed personnel. Certainly, the right tool for the job is vital to timely mitigation, but perhaps more important, these water damage professionals thoroughly understand how to dry a structure and person property effectively.
In a previous blog, we've talked about Psychrometrics, Detection Equipment, Extraction Equipment, and Air Moving Equipment. Today I would like to explain in detail how different Dehumidification Equipment and Deodorization Equipment.
Dehumidification Equipment: By extracting water vapor from the air, dehumidifiers lower the relative humidity , which in turn increases the rate of evaporation. In a water damaged structure, dehumidifiers pull in the moist, humid air and then discharge dry, warm air. The dry air acts like a sponge, absorbing moisture from wet materials. SERVPRO of Amory/Aberdeen & West Point uses two types of dehumidifiers:
Refrigerant Dehumidifiers - work similarly to air conditioners
Desiccant Dehumidifiers - use chemicals, called desiccants, that readily absorb moisture from the air.
Deodorization Equipment: -
Ultra Low Volume (ULV) Foggers will atomize liquid deodorizing agents, producing fine mist that easily penetrates sites where odor-causing residues accumulate. The device can also be used to inject fungicides and disinfectants into wall cavities and other difficult-to-access areas.
Thermal Foggers dispense solvent-based products in large volume, dense fog suitable for confined areas. The fog consists of tiny particles of deodorant solution that pair with and neutralize odor-causing particles.
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties is available 24/7. Please call us today for all of your water and fire damage needs at 662-349-6500.
The faster you call, the less damage that you will you have! Call SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties today! 662-346-6500
When you have a "Clean Water" water damage that is considered a Category 1 Water Damage. That water does not pose substantial threat to humans. Examples are broken water supply lines, tub or sink overflows or appliance malfunctions that involves water supply lines.
If you have a Category 1 or a "Clean Water" Water Damage at your home or business here are some tips to follow:
DO:
Shut off the water source of water if possible, or contact a qualified party to stop the water source.
Turn off circuit breakers for wet ares 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.
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 wood clothes pins to keep furniture skirting off damp floors.
Hang draperies with coated hangers to avoid contact with carpeting or floors.
Hang furs and 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 carpet to cause staining.
Leave Oriental rugs or other colored rugs on wet wall-to-wall carpets to cause staining.
Use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water possibly causing electrical shock or damaging the vacuum cleaner.
Use TVs or other appliances while standing on wet carpets or floors, especially not on wet concrete floors.
Turn on ceiling fans if ceiling is wet, or enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water.
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties is available 24 hours 7 days a week. Please call us today if you have a water damage at your home or business at 662-349-6500.
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate & Tunica Counties also offers the following services:
Fires can cause much damage to your home or business...but SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties can make it "Like it never even happened."
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties can help you in so many ways if you are a victim of a fire damage in your home or business.
What is Restorable:
Determining exactly what can be saved until everything is dry is usually impossible. We will set a follow-up date so we can monitor the drying process. In addition, the restoration process will be scheduled when the drying is complete. The can include floor preparation, tack strip replacements, carpet and pad installation, seaming, carpet cleaning and restoring, and furniture and contents cleaning. A scope of services will be provided.
Pre-Existing or Preloss Conditions:
During the course of cleaning, it is likely we will remove day-to-day soiling, which existed prior to your loss. We are happy to do so. If, however, the removal of pre-existing soil requires significant extra effort, our crews will be instructed to move on to the next item. Pre-existing damage, including visible mold growth, will also be noted.
Personal Items:
In the course of our survey and cleaning, we will sometimes be required to open doors, cupboards, etc. to qualify and/or restore the damage. If any of these areas contain personal items you would prefer to relocate before we start work, please let us know.
Overlooked Items:
Although our supervisors inspect all work, you should accompany the supervisor on the final walk-through and bring any overlooked items or concerns to the supervisor's attention.
Insurance Adjusters or Agents:
We are neither insurance agents nor adjusters. We cannot authorize anything to be replaced, repaired or painted. Our job is to preserve and protect, stop further damage from occurring and restore damaged items to their prior condition when possible.
Please call SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties 24/7 in any Fire or Water Emergency at 662-349-6500.
Fires can be a very dangerous and emotional thing...please let us at SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties help you. We are always here to help!
Home Fire Preparedness: There are actually ways you can prepare your home for a fire. Here a few tips:
Install the right number of smoke alarms. Smoke alarms should be installed on every level of your home, outside each sleeping area, and inside each sleeping room.
Test your smoke alarms once a month. Change your batteries twice a year. We suggest changing them each time the time changes.
Have a fire extinguisher in your home, especially in your kitchen.
Teach your children what smoke alarms sound like and what that sound means.
Ensure all household members know two ways to escape from every room of your home and know the family meeting spot outside of your home.
Establish a family emergency communications plan and ensure that all household members know who to contact if they cannot find one another.
Practice escaping from your home at least twice a year. Press the smoke alarm test button or yell "FIRE" to alert everyone that they must get out. Maybe do this when you put new batteries in the smoke alarms.
Make sure everyone knows how to call 911.
Teach household members how to STOP, DROP, and ROLL if their clothes should catch on fire.
What To Do if a Fire Starts:
Know how to safely operate a fire extinguisher.
Remember to GET OUT, STAY OUT, and CALL 911.
Yell "FIRE" several times and go outside right away. If you live in a building with elevators, use the stairs. Leave all your things where they are and save yourself.
If closed doors or handles are warm or smoke blocks your primary escape route, use your second way out. Never open doors that are warm to touch.
If you must escape through smoke, get low and go under the smoke to your exit. Close doors behind you.
Recovering After a Fire:
Call 911. Give first aid where needed; cool and cover burns to reduce the chance of further injury or infection.
Let friends and family know you are safe.
People and animals that are seriously injured or burned should be transported to professional medical or veterinary help immediately.
Stay out of fire-damaged home until local fire authorities say it is safe to re-enter.
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties can also help you get your home and belongings back together after a fire. Call us today at 662-349-6500.
Commercial Post Construction Cleanup & Restoration
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties helps ensure your finished projects always look their best!
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties now specializes in post construction cleanup and restoration. Structural integrity, materials, labor, safety, customer satisfaction and deadlines - the list goes on and on when building a commercial facility. The bottom line, however, is you are responsible for getting the doors doors open on time.
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties can help you meet your deadlines by providing thorough post-construction services in a timely manner. These services include:
Post-Construction Cleaning
Dehumidification and Drying
Final Cleaning
Emergency Response Restoration and Cleanup Services
Post-construction cleaning takes place once the floors are down and the dry wall is up. The debris and dirt needs to be removed in order to lay down carpet, paint, and decorate. SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties can provide the debris removal services to prepare the building for interior design.
During the construction phase, a building can trap moisture. Excessive moisture could result in mold growth. If you think one of your projects may have a moisture issue, rely on SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties to provide the help you need eliminating moisture and preventing the potential for mold growth.
If you want the facility to look its best when the doors open, SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties provides cleaning services to give the building that extra shine. Services include:
Carpet, resilient, and non-resilient floor prep and finish
Ceiling, walls, and fixture cleaning
Deodorization
Air Duct Cleaning
Debris Removal
Window Cleaning
Rely on SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties to help ensure your post-construction cleanup gets done as quickly as possible.
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties loves to clean! Call us for all of your Spring Cleaning needs! 662-349-6500.
Make doormats welcoming!
Shake 'em, wash 'em, swat 'em with a broom. Give them the toughest cleaning they can take. They’re your front line against tracked-in dirt—so keep them clean enough to function at peak efficiency.
Clean carpets and upholstery
Fabrics that have absorbed a winter’s worth of dirt, body oil, and germs will need a deep cleaning to get them ready for another year of wear—and for that close inspection by your relaxing guests. When you’re shampooing carpets or cleaning upholstery with a rented carpet cleaner, practice first in an unobtrusive area to make sure you have the knack of the machine and that the treatment won’t discolor fabrics or cause dyes to run. Move furniture just slightly—not out of the room or against the wall, as the old rules dictated—and place the legs of each piece back on top of small wax paper squares after shampooing. The wax paper will protect your carpet and keep the furniture legs from getting wet as the carpet dries. Open the windows to speed the drying process, which can take a day or more. If you’re not the furniture-shifting and machine-renting type, use a professional carpet and upholstery cleaner.
Wash walls, cabinets, baseboards, and woodwork
The walls may not look as if they need a bath—dust and soot fall to the floor, right? Most of it does, but just enough clings to vertical surfaces to warrant a seasonal or pre-holiday bath. Use a sponge and hand dishwashing detergent, washing the surface in sections. A sponge mop makes it easier to reach higher spots. Use two buckets: one for dishwashing detergent solution and another for wringing your sponge. Dry the walls and woodwork with a clean cloth.
Clean ceiling fixtures
Remove dust and dirt from ceiling fans and air-conditioner vents with a cloth and a vacuum with a soft nozzle attachment.
Check your coils
You should clean the refrigerator’s condenser coil, usually found behind the toe grille, with a long-handled bottle brush and a vacuum cleaner with an attachment hose to remove dust and lint. Built-up dust can shut down the unit by causing it to overheat. To remove dust from coils attached to the hard-to-reach back side of the fridge, carefully pull the refrigerator out several feet (newer models roll on casters) and vacuum thoroughly; finish by sweeping or vacuuming the floor area you’ve revealed. Expect to rediscover coins, bottle caps, and twist ties that you and the cat knocked over the past year.
When Disaster Strikes, You Can Be Ruined or You Can Be READY!
50% of business may never reopen after a disaster strikes. The professionals at SERVPRO of Destoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties are always here to help!
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties is committed to providing fire and water cleanup and restoration services to reduce business interruptions and recovery costs. SERVPRO can provide:
Over 40 years of experience as leading fire and water cleanup and restoration providers.
A SERVPRO franchise nearby - more than 1,500 franchises servicing 48 states.
More locations for faster responses.
Quick response time to help ensure the damage is contained and the restoration process begins promptly.
Large loss capabilities - no fire or water damage is too big.
As many as 50% of businesses close down following a disaster, according to the latest 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. And knowing you are "Ready for whatever happens" speaks trust to your clients and employees that in the event you business is affected by a disaster, they don't necessarily have to be.
By developing a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile for your business, you help to minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Know what to do, who to call and what to expect in advance is helpful in receiving timely mitigation and can help minimize the affects water and fire damage can have on your business.
Call SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties for all of your mold remediation needs. 662-349-6500.
Depending on the severity of mold in your home, it can be quite the undertaking to remove mold from your home, often the best choice is to call a water damage restoration specialist like SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties. SERVPRO’s professional team will use top of the line equipment and their specialized expertise to bring back your home to a healthy, mold-free state. Once your home is returned to this state, it is important to practice mold-preventing habits.
Mold and mildew build up especially in places like bathrooms, laundry areas and basements. Here are some mold preventing tips that will help keep your home safe and clean:
Repair any plumbing leaks.
Put an exhaust fanin the bathroom.
Clean garbage cans weekly.
Remove bathroom carpeting if moisture is a concern.
Scour sinks and tubs at least once monthly with a diluted bleach solution.
Clean refrigerator door gaskets and drip pans.
Use an electric dehumidifier; drain the dehumidifier regularly.
Raise the temperature in the basementto lower humidity levels.
Promote ground water drainage away from your house.
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties has water damage and restoration specialists who also help to restore structures with damage caused by fire and other disasters. Call us today at 662-349-6500. We are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties is always here to help! 662-349-6500.
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 allergens and irritants.
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. Call the professionals at SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties today at 662-349-6500.
Always be prepared. SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties is here to help. 662-349-6500.
An emergency can happen when we least expect it. It is important to prepare as much as possible for any situation. Having a family emergency plan is crucial to keeping your family safe during an imminent crisis. SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties would like to share strategies you can use with your family in the event of a crisis to keep them prepared and safe.
Have a Designated Meeting Space
In the event of a fire or other disaster inside the home, it’s important to have a designated meeting space that is close to the property. If a fire happens, find somewhere safe that is close by for the family to meet.
Dealing with Natural Disasters
With the weather acting as unpredictable as it has been of late, it’s important to understand your town’s geography and climate and prepare for whatever weather affects it the most. In the case of a flood, don’t wait for the water to get to unsafe levels! Your family’s safety comes first, and it’s not worth risking staying in your home if it’s going to flood from the water. Take what little belongings you can and leave before the water gets too out of control.
Know Basic CPR
If one of your family members becomes injured, faints, or worse, it’s important to know basic CPR skills before paramedics can arrive. Make sure your whole family attends CPR classes; they’re affordable, hands-on, and can save a life! Keeping track of your loved ones’ medical history is important, too. If disaster strikes and a medical flare-up happens, you need to know what to do!
Disaster strikes when we least expect it to. We oftentimes live comfortable lives and forget that an emergency can strike at any time. Your family’s safety should be a top priority, and planning is the best way to ensure this. Communicate with your family, create contingency plans for disasters, and you’ll find yourself more prepared than you thought you were in the event of a disaster.
Preventing Water Damages While You Are On Vacation
Don't let your vacation be ruined by a water damage when you get home! Call the professionals at SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties.
One of the highest insurance claims by homeowners is water damage, according to a study done by the Insurance Institute. In fact, leaky pipes and in often cases appliances cause millions of dollars of damage in freezing weather and storms annually. While you’re on vacation, it’s no surprise that a leaky pipe can burst and cause hundreds of dollars of repairs. This is why it’s important to read our steps below on how to prevent water damages in your home while you’re away.
Step 1. Check for Leaks Before Going on Vacation
Before embarking on your trip, check pipes under your sinks and the water heater for any rust, cracks, or damage. You should also check the seals around your windows to make sure there are no cracks that might cause water damage. Additionally, check the exterior of your house and see what condition your roof shingles are in. If any show damage, getting them replaced before leaving for vacation is a good idea.
Step 2. Inspect Your Major Appliances
It’s important that you inspect the hoses that connect to important appliances in your home, such as dishwashers, washer/dryers, and refrigerator. If there is any damage, you should get the hose replaced before you leave to prevent extensive water damage.
Step 3. Clear Out Your Gutters
Make sure to get any debris out of your rain gutters before leaving for vacation. This way, you won’t have any blockages that can cause damage while you’re away.
Step 4. Inspect Your Sump Pump
Make sure it is in good condition and clear any debris from clogging the pit. You should also run a few tests, listening to the sounds it makes and making sure that the water in the pump is actually going outside. You should also install a battery-powered backup in case there is a power outage while you’re away.
Step 5. Insulate Exposed Pipes
If you are planning on being away from your home during the winter, it can be a good idea to insulate any exposed pipes. This will prevent them from freezing while you are away.
Step 6. Get Someone to Check on Your Home
Call a friend or hire a professional house sitter to check on your home every week while you are gone. Instruct them to ensure that the heat is always on if your vacation is during the winter. Also, show them where the water main is in case of an emergency.
Step 7. Turn Off the Water
Lastly, if you cannot find someone to check on your home, you should turn off the water main. You will also want to drain the pipes completely so that they do not freeze or burst during the colder months. To do this, run the water and flush your toilet after you turn off the water. You should also open the cabinets under your sink to let the warm air surround the pipes.
If you do experience water damage while you are away from your home, contact SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties soon as possible. 662-349-6500
Always be prepared. SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties is here to help.
At SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties, we know the lovely warm glow a chimney can add to any home. Sitting in front of a fireplace in your Southaven home on a crisp day is a wonderful way to relax and enjoy an evening with family. There is nothing more important than keeping your home and family safe. To help keep those fires going, it's useful to make sure the chimney is periodically cleaned. Chimney cleaning can help a fireplace stay in good shape and reduce the risk of a fire breaking out in your home. Additionally, the chimney allows smoke, fumes and dangerous toxins escape the home through its ventilation. Read on for some helpful tips on having your chimney services.
Inspect the Brick
All chimneys should be completely cleaned at least once a year. Proper cleaning is important to make sure that the chimney is in good working order. Any homeowner should also perform an inspection on their own. This can help identify any potential problems that must be addressed as soon as possible. It's a good idea to bring a flashlight and have a good look at the floor. All the ashes in the chimney accumulate here. The flooring needs to be kept in good shape to make sure the fire can be turned on. Note any problems with the brick surrounding it. The bricks used in a fireplace are more heat tolerant than ordinary bricks. They need to be maintained to prevent any fire in the fireplace from spreading to other areas of the home. If a single brick is out of place, this can make the rest of the chimney far less functional.
Have a Look Up
After having a good look at the area surrounding the fireplace, it's a good idea to have a look at the rest of the chimney. Put on some old clothes and get in the area surrounding the fireplace. Have a look at the chimney area. You should see if there's any obstruction or other issues. Small birds and rodents often find themselves stuck or you could have a thick layer of creosote and soot sticking to the flue and masonry inside the chimney. When this gets too thick, all it takes is a spark and you have a chimney fire on your hands.
According to the National Fire Prevention Association, 30 percent of home fires are caused by chimney fires. Be sure your home is not one of them and have your chimney cleaned regularly.If you do run into trouble with smoke or fire in your home, give us a call today.
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties - 662-349-6500
If you are a victim of fire damage, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties. We are always here to help! 662-349-6500.
No matter how the fire started, a rush of emotions and feelings of panic seem to follow. After the calling the Fire Department to put out the fire, who do you call to help you clean up the damage caused by the fire?
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate & Tunica Counties is here to help you any time, day or night. Here is an overview of our fire damage process:
ONE HOUR: Within one hour from notice of loss, SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate & Tunica Counties will contact you to arrange for service. You'll know help is on the way!
FOUR HOURS: Within four hours of loss notificiation, SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties will be on-site to start mitigation services. The key to reducing damage and saving money is responding quickly to your damage.
DETAILED EXPLANATION: A trained, uniformed and equipped SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties professional will walk you through the job process step-by-step, explaining what to expect and anticipated outcome.
PRETESTING: We will begin pretesting for restorability, working from the source of the damage outward.
EIGHT HOURS: Within eight business hours of on-site arrival, a verbal breifing of the scope will be communicated to the appropriate person, normally your adjuster or property manager.
CLEANING, RESTORATION, & DEODORIZATION: We will work neatly and efficiently to help you regain control of your property when a damaging event has taken over. They will use state-of-the-art restoration techniques to ensure your property is taken care of right the first time.
FINAL WALK-THROUGH: After the work has been completed, a final walk through will be conducted with your to help ensure your satisfaction.
Call us today at SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties at (662) 349-6500 for all of your fire restoration needs.
Water damages can happen to anyone, anywhere in their home or business. Call SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, and Tunica Counties. 662-349-6500.
One pipe leak can result in major water damage throughout many rooms in a home. When a hot water heater leaks in the attic it can cause damage in several rooms below. Typically in these situations, you don't know there is a problem until it's too late!
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate & Tunica Counties is equipped to respond to these type of water damage the same day the job is called in. We will extract the water, remove damaged structure, and set up drying equipment. We will monitor the job daily until all structure is dry!
It is recommended that you check your hot water heater on a regular basis, especially if it's in your attic. When your hot water heater is in your attic it is even more important to keep a maintenance schedule and to stick to that schedule. If your hot water heater is slowly leaking, it won't take much time for the pan to begin to overflow from a 50 gallon water tank. The bottom of the water tank can then rust. Also, the leak can cause moisture in the air that can then cause mold!
Things we don't see often, or ever for that matter are easy to forget! If you are a victim of a hot water heater water damage, call us at SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties today! (662) 349-6500.
As many as 50% of businesses close for good following a disaster. Call SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties at 662-349-6500. We are here to help
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate & Tunica Counties is committed to providing fire and water cleanup and restoration services to reduce business interruptions and recovery costs. SERVPRO can provide:
Over 40 years of experience as leading fire and water cleanup and restoration providers.
A SERVPRO franchise nearby - more than 1,500 franchises servicing 48 states.
More locations for faster responses.
Quick response time to help ensure the damage is contained and the restoration process begins promptly.
Large loss capabilities - no fire or water damage is too big.
As many as 50% of businesses close down following a disaster, according to the latest 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. And knowing you are "Ready for whatever happens" speaks trust to your clients and employees that in the event you business is affected by a disaster, they don't necessarily have to be.
By developing a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile for your business, you help to minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Know what to do, who to call and what to expect in advance is helpful in receiving timely mitigation and can help minimize the affects water and fire damage can have on your business.
Dry Ice Blasting is a revolutionary blasting method that uses dry ice pellets (CO2 in solid form) as the blasting material. The process is very environmentally friendly and provides a fast and effective alternative to traditional methods of cleaning industrial production equipment.
Dry Ice Blasting is a 3 step process:
1. Kinetic - When dry ice pellets are accelerated in a jet of compressed air and strike a surface at the speed of sound, they crack and loosen the coating of the surface being treated.
2. Thermal - The low temperature of dry ice pellets (-79 degrees C/-110 degrees F) makes coating brittle, cracks it and loosens it. This allows dry ice to permeate the coating.
3. Sublimation - Dry ice penetrates the coating and immediately sublimes (passes directly from solid to vapor state). This results in a 700-fold increase in volume, an explosive effect that lifts the coating off the surface.
The Benefits of Dry Blasting:
1. A dry cleaning process - Dry ice blasting is a completely dry process because dry ice pellets consists of CO2 and vaporize immediately on contact with the surface to be cleaned.
2. No waste disposal - The system produces no waste products. Only the coating that has been removed remains to be disposed of, and this can usually be swept or vacuumed from the floor.
3. Environmentally friendly - Dry ice blasting is completely non-toxic and no hazardous chemicals are used. Costs connected with the disposal of blasting materials and solvents are saved.
4. No abrasion - Dry ice blasting is non-abrasive and therefore surfaces are treated very gently. Wear and tear resulting from the use of steel brushes, scrapers and other blasting materials is avoided.
5. Improved production quality - Dry ice blasting often allows for your production equipment to be cleaned while in operation without the need for dismantling or costly downtime.
SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, and Tunica Counties also offers many other services:
RESTORATION SERVICES:
Fire, Smoke, and Soot
Water Removal and Dehumidification
Mold Mitigation and Remediation
Catastrophic Storm Response
Move Outs and Contents Restoration
Electronics and Equipment
Document Drying
Contents Claim Inventory Service
CLEANING:
Air Ducts and HVAC
Bio hazard, Crime Scene and Vandalism
Carpet, Upholstery, Drapes and Blinds
Ceilings, Walls, and Hard Floors
Deodorization
SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties is available 24/7! Call us today! 662-349-6500
Got Mold? Call SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate & Tunica Counties
SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties professionals handle water damages every day and know prompt action is required to prevent mold growth. Mold is more likely to spread when an environment has been subject to moisture for a long period of time. If your property has sustained a recent water damage, it is vital to remove excess water and dry the structure promptly. If there is an ongoing moisture porblem in the building, it is important to be alert for:
1. The presence of visible mold.
2. Strong musty odors which may indicate mold is present.
3. Any evidence of past moisture problems that might have caused undetected mold growth.
4. Excessive humidity.
These conditions may require the expertise of a qualifed Indoor Air Quality/Environmental Professional to inspect the building for mold growth and water damage problems.
If you think you might have a mold problem, call SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties at (662) 349-6500. One of our team members that is trained in mold remediation will examine the structure for any visible signs of mold.
If your business is the victim of flood damage, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties at 662-349-6500!
Floods rank as one of the most common widespread natural disasters in the United States. Whether you live near a coastline, along city streets, in the mountains, near a river, or even in the desert, there is a potential for suffereing flood damage. In fact, nearly 25% of last year's claims paid by the National Flood Insurance Program were for plicies in moderate to low-risk communities. According to NFIP, houses in the United States have a 26% chance of being damaged by a flood during the course of a 30 year mortgage, while businesses face similar risks by flooding. On average, floods cost $6 billion in annual losses in the U.S. The following are a few more little-known flood facts:
Floods kill an average of 140 people per year in the U.S., making flooding the most deadly natural disaster.
More than half of the fatalities during floods are auto related, often the result of drivers misjudging the depth of water on a road and being swept away in a swiftly moving current.
The principle causes of lfoods in the eastern United States are hurricanes and storms.
The principle causes of floods in the western United States are snowmelt and rainstorms.
Underpasses can be some of the most dangerous places during a flash flood - especially at night, when it's difficult to see.
If flood damage to your home or business is not promptly mitigated, lingering moisture from floodwater may elevate the risk of mold growth. SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties can properly remediate mold damage in your home or business. Even minor floods have the potential to cause major damage to the structure when not treated quickly and properly, and the cleanup is often overwhelming. SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties is prepared to handle and size disaster and help make it "Like it never even happened."
Call SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties at 662-349-6500 if you are a flood damage victim.
Choosing the correct equipment and the correct amount of equipment is very important for your water damage. Call us today at 662-349-6500!
The Right Equipment
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate & Tunica Counties understands that using the proper equipment makes a measurable difference in reducing claims loss expense. When time matters, technology and equipment must be counted on to perform. We at SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties will answer your call with fast action, exceptional equipment, and trained, uniformed professionals. Certainly, the right tool for the job is vital to timely mitigation, but perhaps more important, we are water damage professionals that thoroughly understand how to dry a structure and personal property effectively.
Detection Equipment
Scoping involves locating the areas of the structure affected by water and defining the extent to which the structure and contents have absorbed moisture. Moisture detection devices are also used to verifty that an environment has been dried thoroughly.
Moisture Sensors are used to detect moisture in carpets, baseboards, and walls.
Moisture Meters are used to determine the actual moisture content of various materials.
Thermohygrometers measure both temperature and relative humidity.
Extraction Equipment
The most effective method of removing moisture from a structure is extraction. This is why it is critical to respond quickly to a water damage and to provide emergency mitigation services. When the water is extracted quickly, the environment can usually be dried much faster.
Air Moving Equipment
Air movers are used in water damage restoration to enhance evaporation at the surface level, thereby reducting drying time. As airflow at the surface level increases, the moisture in the air increases. The moisture is then eliminated via the use of dehumidification equipment.
Dehumidification Equipment
By extracting water vapor from the air, dehumidifiers lower the relative humidity, which in turn increases the rate of evaporation. In a water damaged structure, dehumidifiers pull in moist, humid air and then discharge dry, warm air. The dry air acts like a sponge, absorbing moisture from wet materials.
Call SERPVRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties at (662) 349-6500 if you need help with your water damage today!!
No matter what Holiday you are celebration, SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Coutnies is always here to help! 662-349-6500.
The holidays are approaching and many families are finalizing plans for elaborate meals, get-together with friends, and decorating with festive lights. Amidst all this planning, SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties reminds homeowners that they may be overlooking the most important plan they can make—a fire safety plan.
Each year, statistics show the incidence of home cooking and candle fires peaks during the holiday season. This tends to focus homeowners on fire prevention precautions—and that’s a good thing, But to truly protect your family from the dangers of a home fire, at the holidays and throughout the year, you need to start with a fire safety plan. Developing a fire safety plan and practicing it regularly with your family is the most important step you can take to help prevent a house fire from turning into a devastating tragedy.
SERVPRO is a national leader and provider of fire and water cleanup and restoration services, and their disaster response professionals know from experience how devastating a home fire can be. They also know that when fire causes a loss of life, there is no “remediation” possible. This is why SERVPRO has teamed up with the American Red Cross by supporting the ARC Disaster Responder program, and in particular the Home Fire Preparedness Campaign. As a Disaster Responder, SERVPRO pledges dollars and support in advance to help the ARC develop and distribute educational materials and respond immediately when they are needed.
We at SERVPRO encourage all Southaven area homeowners to follow these fire safety guidelines, developed by the ARC through their Home Fire Preparedness Campaign, to help minimize injury or loss of life due to a residential fire.
Install the right number of smoke alarms4. Test them once a month and replace the batteries at least once a year.
Teach children what smoke alarms sound like and what to do when they hear one.
Ensure that all household members know two ways to escape from every room of your home and know the family meeting spot outside of your home.
Establish a family emergency communications plan and ensure all household members know who to contact if they cannot find one another.
Practice escaping from your home at least twice a year. Press the smoke alarm test button or yell “Fire” to alert everyone they must get out.
Make sure everyone knows how to call 9-1-1.
Teach household members to STOP, DROP and ROLL if their clothes should catch on fire.
Fire prevention and fire safety planning are two very different things. Fire prevention planning helps control or eliminate the causes of a fire. Fire safety planning helps prevent injury and loss of life when a fire does break out. To protect your family and your property, you need both.
For more information please contact us at 662-349-6500.
Specialty drying equipment that can be used at large commercial water damages.
When business owners visualize water damage, they often picture a massive storm wiping out power lines, flooding offices, and shutting down businesses for days at a time. It is true that commercial water damage is often the result of floods and water that stems from weather events and storms.
However, many entrepreneurs and business space renters forget that storms and severe weather aren't the only causes of floods and water damage. Here are some of the typical causes of water damage to commercial buildings.
1. Malfunctioning Sprinkler Systems Some older office and retail buildings still have outdated sprinkler systems that work in conjunction with fire protection systems. While such sprinklers can come in handy during a fire emergency, they can also cause commercial flood damage if they are faulty or in need of replacement. This could easily damage inventory and business assets.
2. Damaged Appliances and Equipment This cause of commercial flood damage is more common in restaurants and catering facilities, as well as any business that has appliances and equipment that make use of water. If the appliance fails and sends water across your building, especially during late hours when no one is around, you may come back to work and face a water emergency.
3. Broken Pipes and Plumbing Just like in a residence, if the plumbing system in your workplace fails water damage could be the result.
4. Backed up Sewer Lines This is another cause of commercial water damage that often catches business owners by surprise. Should the sewer line to your building back up or become damaged, realize the potential dangers of contaminated Black Water which can cause health effects and ruin products and office furnishings.
If your business has suffered commercial water damage, SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties is always here to help! Call us 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 662-349-6500.
Got Mold? Call SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties at 662-349-6500.
Mold primarily thrives in damp, humid areas, such as basements, showers or areas around heating and cooling appliances. However, there are many places where mold may be silently hiding. It's these unseen areas that can lead to significant damage from mold making it important to check them regularly for signs of moisture or condensation. In no particular order, here are the top places where mold can grow in your home:
Crawl Spaces
Most homeowners never look into their crawlspace, but they might want to. Crawlspaces can easily collect moisture from water rising from the ground or seeping through the foundation. The presence of a vapor barrier will help keep the ground moisture from intruding into the crawlspace. Adequate ventilation also allows any moisture that may collect to flow out. Failure to keep the moisture out and have effective air-flow in your crawlspace can result in mold growth on the exposed framing of your home. The mold can eventually lead to excessive damage to all wood surfaces and slowly make its way into the home
Basements
Basements are similar to crawlspaces. However, since they are open and exposed to the rest of the house, mold can quickly spread throughout your home via the air ducts and open doors. If your basement smells musty, you may have mold growth already happening or the high possibility of it occurring. Since many basements are furnished and carpeted, there are more areas to trap moisture, making them even more susceptible to mold growth when compared to a crawlspace.
Bathrooms
A good ventilation fan is important in a bathroom, not only for the odor issues, but for moisture as well. This is especially true with bathrooms where there are showers in them. While everybody loves a hot shower, the steam created from the hot water also generates a large amount of moisture that can easily lead to mold growth. Another area where mold may grow is behind toilets and under sinks with cabinets. Moisture can condensate on the toilet tank or base causing mold to form on the wall or where it is affixed to the floor. Â Even a small amount of water that escapes from the plumbing underneath the bathroom sink can be enough to initiate mold growth.
Under the Refrigerator
Some refrigerators have drip pans where water can collect. If dust or debris get into the drip pan, mold can start to grow. Water can also leak from the water line to the ice maker, or drip from the cooling coils. Sweeping or vacuuming any vents or drip pans, as well as checking any lines or connections should be performed on a regular basis.
Around the Washing Machine
The washing machine and the dryer are both susceptible to mold growth. If the dryer vent hose does not properly vent out the steam from the drying clothes, it can accumulate in the hose or around the back of the dryer causing mold to grow. Washing machines can also leak and drip down under the machine where dust can gather creating the perfect home for mold growth. Just like the refrigerator, it's important to keep the areas clean and check underneath them often.
No flood is too big or too small for the professionals and SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate & Tunica Counties. Call us today at 662-349-6500.
Nobody expected that the creek could rise that far, it never had before. Now, the house is a muddy mess of debris, water and extensive damage. For some people, moving would be the first thought that came to mind. However, others want to stay in their homes, repair the water damage and live on in the house that they love.
Flood damage is more than just the standing water left after the creek recedes. It's ruined carpets and furniture, wet plaster and more. Water in the home or business is just the start of the problems. Without proper clean-up and sanitization, further problems develop, mold can grow, floor damage can be permanent, and drywall can be ruined. It is imperative to immediately start the mitigation and restoration process to help limit the damage and mounting costs. A call to a professional water mitigation company should be the first step taken by a home owner after flooding occurs. SERVPRO DeSoto, Tate & Tunica Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any water damage and restoration issues.
Water cleanup begins with bringing in equipment to extract the water in the home. Pumps and specialized vacuums are used to suck up the water. Restoration is a process. Once the puddles have been cleared, the next step will begin. The water damage will be in the walls, floors and furnishings. Drying is imperative to help stop the damage and to prevent mold from growing.
Air movers, dehumidifiers and other specialized equipment will be brought in to help dry out the water in walls, and moisture from furnishings and floors. Thoroughly drying water in the home will save thousands of dollars worth of damage later.
Restoration from the devastation of flood damage is not an easy experience. A professional service should be called to handle and help facilitate the process so that it is done correctly. For instance, not many individuals would know that after the water in their business or home is dried, more steps are still necessary to properly complete the job. Sanitizing the surfaces, furnishings and anything else the water touched is essential to prevent any potential of mold growth.
Standing water can leave a foul odor. Professionals can remove the lingering odors left even after the water cleanup. Mitigation professionals are equipped with specialized fogging equipment and industrial air scrubbers to help remove the last traces of the water damage.
After the restoration process of water cleanup, drying, sanitizing and odor elimination, there is still one last step in the water damage mitigation process repairs. Water can damage walls, carpeting and flooring. Drywall may need to be replaced. Electrical outlets and wiring should be checked for damage. Water may have warped sub-flooring, damaged floor joists and wrecked major appliances. Time is money, so flood damage needs to be taken care of as quickly as possible. Quick, yet thorough mitigation, will get a business back up and running, or a family back if their home, after flood damage has occurred.
Storms, floods, and even appliance malfunctions (like a dishwasher overflow) can cause homes and businesses the headaches of having to deal with the water cleanup process. Nobody wants to go through it, but when it happens a person shouldn't go through it alone. Professionals who know how to deal with the devastation left behind are the best option for a quick, safe restoration. Since professional water damage restoration companies have the equipment and training to handle cleaning, drying and even rebuilding homes and businesses, they should be the first choice for mitigation.
The professionals at SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica are always here to help! Call us today at 662-494-7733.
Water damage in the kitchen is something that homeowners often forget to consider as they tend to associate water damage with bathrooms and laundry rooms. Unfortunately, water damage in your kitchen is typically hard to recognize due to the various smells already in that area. From the kitchen sink to the dishwasher and from the refrigerator to the freezer, there are many potential water leaking hazards inside of the kitchen. Since detecting moisture in the kitchen is difficult, but it is important to understand the most effective ways to prevent water damage in the kitchen.
Water damage can arise at any moment in your home. In the kitchen, water damage is most often found due to the following:
Dishwashers
Refrigerators
Countertops and Sinks
Dishwashers will sometimes malfunction, causing blockage of the main filter and thus causing a leak and eventual water damage. To prevent this, make sure that you are regularly checking the base of the dishwasher and looking for any collection of excess water. Also, look out for any leaks in the dishwasher which might be caused by an improperly sealed hose. Refrigerators often cause water damage because they are rarely moved. To prevent a potential water problem, be sure to occasionally check behind your refrigerator for any water. Finally, countertops and sinks are obviously exposed to water each and every day. To prevent water damage in these areas, check under your sink for any pooling water and make sure that the grout on your countertops is intact, as this is a sign of water damage.
Kitchen repairs for water damage can be costly and annoying. Not only will you have to pay to fix the problem, but it will disrupt your day-to-day routine since the kitchen is the focal point of most homes. In addition, mold growth is a threat when kitchen water damage goes undetected. As such, be sure to keep the above tips in mind to prevent water damage in your kitchen.
No Storm damage is too big or too small for the professionals at SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties. Here to Help!
Nobody expected that the creek could rise that far. It never had before. Now, the house is a muddy mess of debris, water and extensive damage. For some people, moving would be the first thought that came to mind. However, others want to stay in their homes, repair the water damage, and live on in the house they love.
Flood damage is more than just the standing water left after the creek recedes. It's ruined carpets and furniture, wet plaster and more. Water in the home or business is just the start of the problems. Without proper clean-up and sanitizing, mold can grow, floor damage can be permanent and drywall can be ruined. It is imperative to immediately start the restoration process to help limit the damage and mounting costs. A call to a professional water mitigation company should be the first step taken by a home owner after flooding occurs.
Water cleanup begins with bringing in equipment to extract the water in the home. Pumps and specialized vacuums are used to suck up the water. Restoration is a process. Once the puddles have been cleared, the next step will begin. The water damage will be in the walls, floors and furnishings. Drying is imperative to help stop the damage and to prevent mold from growing.
Fans, dehumidifiers and other equipment will be brought in to help dry out the water in walls and moisture from furnishings and floors. Thoroughly drying water in the home will save thousands of dollars worth of damage later.
Restoration from the devastation of flood damage is not an easy process. A professional service should be called to handle the process so that it is done correctly. For instance, not many individuals would know that after the water in their business is removed or the water in their home is dried, more steps are still necessary. Sanitizing the surfaces, furnishings and anything else the water touched should be done.
Water in the business or home could have left a foul odor. Professionals can remove the lingering odors left even after the water cleanup. Mitigation professionals know how to use fogging equipment and industrial air scrubbers to help remove the last traces of the water damage.
After the restoration process of water cleanup, drying, sanitizing and odor elimination, there is still one last step in the water damage mitigation process - repairs. Water in a business can damage walls, carpeting and flooring. Drywall may need to be replaced. Electrical outlets and wiring should be checked for damage. Water in a business may have warped sub-flooring, damaged floor joists and wrecked major appliances. Time is money, so flood damage needs to be taken care of as quickly as possible. Quick yet thorough mitigation will get a business back up and running after flood damage has occurred.
Storms, floods and even appliance malfunctions like a dishwasher overflow can cause homes and businesses the headaches of having to deal with the water cleanup process. Nobody wants to go through it, but when it happens a person shouldn't go through it alone. Professionals who know how to deal with the devastation left behind are the best option for a quick, safe restoration. Since professional water damage restoration companies have the equipment and training to handle cleaning, drying and even rebuilding homes and businesses, they should be the first choice for mitigation.
Sure, the damage is devastating and overwhelming. Of course, nobody wants to go through flooding and the after-effects. The reality is that these occurrences can and do happen every day. The good news is that there are people specifically trained to restore homes and businesses to their pre-flood conditions. Call SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica COunties today at 662-349-6500.
SERVPRO Storm Response - Ready For Whatever Happens
SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties is "Here to Help", especially after the storm. Call us today at 662-349-6500.
Every year, all over the country, catastrophic natural disasters wreak havoc on communities large and small.
Whether its turbulent blizzards, or torrid flooding, the effects of these colossal events can be felt across the nation.
In the midst of the chaos and stress caused by these happenings, it is easy for business and home owners to feel overwhelmed and lost.
SERVPRO strives to put our customers at ease, guiding them and supporting them through the STORM emergency process while providing education and knowledge on how to best navigate the situation.
From the initial damage assessment, to communicating with your insurance adjuster, to final billing and processing, SERVPRO supports our clients by providing superior customer service.
SERVPRO happily responds to local and outside STORM events. Nationwide, SERVPRO franchises mobilize and act fast, traveling cross country to assist in disaster clean up in communities across the US and Canada.
SERVPRO works in conjunction with all insurance companies, and is part of the Preferred Service Provider program for many nationally recognized insurance organizations.
For our self-pay customers, SERVPRO offers reasonable, competitive pricing and payment options. We understand that STORM cleanup is an unexpected expense, and strive to make reasonably priced restoration accessible to all our customers.
So in the event that your home or business is involved in a STORM, you can rely on SERVPRO to turn a stressful situation into a manageable, professional experience.
Call SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties today, no matter how big or small your water or fire damage may be. 662-349-6500. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
No water damage is too big or too small for the professionals at SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties. Call us today at 662-349-6500.
After a flood, many homeowners and property managers wonder if their carpet and pad can be saved. The answer is, it depends. Factors such as the age and quality of the carpet and pad, as well as the type of installation used, have to be taken into consideration. However, the type of floodwater that caused the damage is most important when determining whether or not carpet and padding can be salvaged.
There are 3 floodwater categories that determine whether the carpet and padding can be restored to their pre-disaster condition:
Category 1 (clean water): non-contaminated water that may come from a broken pipe, sink, etc. After the water has been extracted, carpets and pads can be dried and restored in place.
Category 2 (gray water): dirty water that has been released by sump pumps, washing machines, dishwashers, etc. The carpet can usually be restored if it has been wet for less than 48 hours. The pad is replaced in most cases.
Category 3 (black water): water containing dangerous contaminants that may originate from sewage and toilet backflows as well as from floods caused by natural disasters. To protect your family’s health, carpets and pads should be removed, discarded and replaced.
Since every water damage situation is different, you cannot know for sure if or when your carpet and pad can be salvaged until you have a professional restoration company inspect the situation.
The faster you report the disaster, the lower the costs will be. If you’re dealing with a flooding problem, contact SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties today to speak to a Mitigation Specialist at 662-349-6500.
Common Moisture Problems That Can Lead to Mold Problems
Got Mold? We can help! Call SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties at 662-349-6500.
Why does mold grow?
Any discussion about mold cleanup should start with understanding why mold begins to grow in the first place. Customers with a mold damage problem are always surprised to learn that toxic mold spores are present not just in their home, but every home, and in fact almost every environment. It’s a naturally occurring element and in low levels is completely safe to humans and pets and your home in general. So when does it become a problem? When too much moisture is introduced in the organic surfaces mold feeds on to grow. Things like drywall, insulation, wood, cabinets, etc. become mold’s food source when mixed with water and the right temperature. While there are many strains of toxic mold, most thrive in temperatures ranging from 60-80 degrees Fahrenheit. If you’ll notice, the average temperature in home’s ideal to our own comfort sits squarely within that range. So when it comes to mold growth, 2 things are always present: the right temperature and food. It’s when you introduce that 3rd element, water, that problems can quickly grow out of hand!
Most common moisture problems that lead to mold
If your home suffered a massive water damage event, you’re obviously going to know about it and hopefully you’re going to hire a competent water damage restoration company to fix it (hint hint, that’s us!). So the likelihood of that event unleashing a chain reaction that leads to a big mold problem is small assuming you have the moisture removed quickly. The real big mold jobs we see are from much smaller, long-term moisture problems that just never went diagnosed. Below are some of the most common persistent water damage problems we see that can result in a massive amount of black mold damage.
Leaks under sinks
Whether it’s from a supply line with a loose connection or a drain pipe that has a small hole, slow leaks under seats (or any other sink for that matter) can go unnoticed for some time because your cabinets can hide the problem. It’s always a good idea to check under your sink cabinets to look for any signs of moisture or musty odors. If you detect a problem, it may be a good idea to have a professional come out and inspect things further. In some cases the problem is isolated and will be something you can handle on your own. But in some cases, the visible signs are only the tip of the iceberg. You’d be shocked what we have seen on and in walls and under flooring after pulling out cabinets!
Small roof leaks
In some instances, the symptoms of a significant roof leak are discovered pretty quickly. Usually you see discoloration in the top floor’s ceiling or worse, it collapses entirely. But in other cases when you have a very small leak, the problem can go undetected for quite some time and never result in water damage you can see from inside the home. It’s usually discovered when someone goes up into the attic for some unrelated reason and sees the problem: mold growth everywhere. On the roof decking, insulation, support beams, you name it. At that point, you’ve got an expensive problem on your hands and your insurance company likely isn’t going to pay for the damages.
The best way to prevent this particular mold problem from occurring is to perform both an exterior as well as interior inspection at least once a year. For the exterior, actually walk the roof of your home (if it’s safe) to look for damaged or missing shingles. Replacing them is easy! For the inside, climb up to your attic and inspect the roof decking for signs of water intrusion.
Pipe leaks inside walls
A lot of times we are called to a home to do a mold inspection because a homeowner noticed a small patch of mold growing on the floor next to a wall. When we dig further, we usually discover there is a plumbing pipe housed in that wall that is slowly leaking and depositing water on the floor inside the wall cavity. Once we start to remove the drywall, often times we discover the problem is much larger than just the small visible spot on the floor. Usually the mold has traveled throughout the wall cavity and inside the subfloor. The damage can be extensive and the costs high.
You obviously can’t go tearing out sections of your walls often to figure out if you have a problem, so what can you do? The main thing you should be doing is watching your water bill. If you notice a spike and can’t determine a cause for that spike, you may have an undetected leak. At that point, you may want to hire a leak detection company to come out and perform an inspection to determine if you have a bigger problem you need to deal with. They’re better equipped at finding the problem, at which point we would come in and remove the excess moisture and black mold as well as repair any surfaces or structures that were torn out during the process!
Mold In Your Home? Call SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties at 662-349-6500.
Don't let a water damage be your problem! SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties is here to help! 662-349-6500.
The following is provided by the IICRC.
Companies that perform water damage restoration have to be skilled in a number of areas to stay current in their field. Technicians in the industry have to combat a number of threats, some visible and some invisible, before their job is done. Structural weakening, chemical runoff, electrical hazards, dangerous wildlife, and deadly microbes are all common risks technicians have to contend with. Without the proper education and equipment, a technician risks grave injury and may leave health risks behind for a family to encounter. Fortunately, technicians in the industry have access to the educational resources offered by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification, or IICRC.
After getting certified in water damage restoration and a number of related fields, a professional in the field will be able to identify and neutralize any problems they are likely to face at a job site. In most cases, a technician is called to a home following a flood or plumbing disaster. In either case, the initial threat a technician has to encounter is hazardous standing liquid. Floods and sewage backups are normally host to dangerous chemicals, like oil runoff, bacteria and viruses. Before any repairs can be done on the home, a technician will need to be outfitted with the proper safety wear and begin investigating where the liquid is pooling. Moisture meters can detect the level of moisture in and behind drywall, carpet, and other areas. Using minimally-invasive tools, a technician can quickly find pockets of heavy moisture in areas not readily accessible.
This is important because only thorough drying will ensure that further destruction does not occur. Most companies use a combination of industrial air movers and dehumidifiers to extract moisture from both materials and the air. This process can take some time, but diagnostic tools like moisture meters help technicians monitor the drying process. Once all of the materials inside the home have reached safe levels, mold and other microbial growth can be halted.
The most severe threats a water damage restoration company has to deal with are molds and other pathogens. These contaminants can remain a major hazard for years after they have taken root, and can cause insidious health problems while remaining hidden in vents or behind walls. Trained technicians are capable of neutralizing molds and other pathogens by utilizing special cleaning products and quickly removing compromised materials. Being able to identify mold growth is an important skill for a professional, and stemming the growth of a colony can be the difference between saving a home and having to condemn it. Certified firms are capable of quickly working through a property and disposing of anything that is beyond repair. Anything that is salvageable but soaked is separated, cleaned properly, and promptly dried. If the building’s structural integrity has been affected, these technicians can identify it and alert the homeowner and the insurance representative to its presence.
Without professional help, a homeowner will never know for sure that their home is safe to live in again. This is why the help of a certified technician is so valuable. They don’t just repair homes, they restore normalcy.
Though IICRC does not in fact operate its own school, it does recommend the best water damage restoration technician training courses per industry standards.
Time is of the essence after a major water disaster. Though Journeyman-certified technicians may be the right choice for water damage that does not threaten structural integrity, it is vital to bring an IICRC certified Master professional to the scene of a major disaster as soon as possible. Certified professionals use the skills they’ve learned in the accreditation courses to examine the structure, textiles, and the belongings, and will likely be able to control the damage, so no further damage will occur.
Furthermore, knowing the fastest and best means of drying the structure and textiles is imperative. Familiarity with the most effective processes and safest compounds to stop the spread of molds and microbes is also needed to protect people and animals in the environment. Graduates of the relevant IICRC-approved classes excel in these areas.
The importance of providing customer satisfaction cannot be over-emphasized. Each certified technician must pass a stringent series of exams prior to acceptance, and continual training is required. Complaints are taken seriously and must be handled promptly to ensure continued accreditation as a certified firm.
Water damage restoration technician training is a surefire way to insure the latest and greatest procedures are used to protect a customer’s property. There are various courses of study and ways to learn the information, so IICRC works with both the consumer and the professional to guarantee the best experience.
Call SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties to begin your Emergency Ready Profile today. Call us at 662-349-6500 to learn more!
Know the Facts about Business Fires
According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, as many as one in four businesses that suffer some kind of major disaster do not reopen afterward. It’s true, overcoming a major loss is extremely difficult, but with the right restoration company and team on your side, working hand-in-hand with your insurance company, the chance of your Southaven-area company surviving is pretty high!
Depending on the size of the fire, and the amount of damage, some businesses that have come to Total Restoration for help have reopened just days after the fire happened. Thanks to innovations in smoke odor removal, fire damage restoration, and cleaning in general, it is possible for crews to start work nearly immediately after the fire department clears the scene, and have things back up and running in no time. Although, again, that all depends on the severity of the fire. But no matter the severity, recovery is possible!
According to the National Fire Prevention Association, U.S. fire departments responded to about 3,300 office property fires per year between 2007 and 2011. Those fires resulted in about $112 million in property damage each year, and most were in business offices – and happened during business hours. However, the good news is the number of business fires was down a whopping 71 percent from 1980 to 2011.
Here are some other stats from the NFPA:
Time of Day
Peak time of day for office fires: Noon – 2p.m. (a.k.a. lunch time!)
69% happened between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m.
The 31% that occurred between 7 p.m. and 7 a.m. caused 67% of recorded property damage, because they went undetected longer. This also highlights the need for automatic detection equipment and working sprinkler systems.
19% of fires happened on weekends.
Cause of the Business Fires
29% were caused by cooking equipment. However, just 6% of these fires caused actual property damage.
Intentionally-set fires caused the most direct property damage – 21%.
Electrical equipment is the second leading cause of office fires.
Just 2% of office fires start in a concealed space like an attic, in the ceiling, or in another conceals space. However, these fires accounted for 13% of the direct property damage.
Containment & Putting it Out
4 out of 5 fires were confined to the room of origin.
90% of fires were large enough to activate sprinklers, which were effective 88% of the time.
Deaths per 1,000 stores were 62% lower in offices equipped with sprinklers compared to those without.
Industrial/Manufacturing Facility Fires
The NFPA also has statistics specific to manufacturing facilities. According to their research, there are about 37,000 fires at industrial or manufacturing facilities each year, resulting in 18 deaths, 279 injuries, and $1 billion in property damage. Heating equipment and stop tools were the leading cause – sparking 28 percent of the fires. Mechanical failure or malfunction caused 24 percent of the fires.
The Best Way to Reduce a Business Interruption Following a Disaster to Your Business is to Plan Ahead for One
As many as 50% of businesses never recover following a disaster, according to the latest industry research. SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties can help you plan ahead for a disaster to minimize business interruption by developing an Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) for your business before one strikes. An ERP provides important contact and building information needed to begin a timely mitigation to help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business. Benefits of an ERP include:
-A no cost assessment of your facility which means there is no need to allocate funds, giving you a great value at no cost.
-A concise profile document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency. It will only take a little time to complete and will not take you away from current projects. But it will save a lot of time if ever needed.
-A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster. This can help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive by having an immediate plan of action.
-Establishes SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider. You have a provider that is recognized as an industry leader and close by, when needed.
-Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin. This saves time so we can begin the work of mitigating the damage which can save you time and money.
-Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information. Having a quick reference of what to do, how to do it and who to call provides solutions in advance of an emergency so that during the emergency you are “Ready for whatever happens.”
Contact SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties to schedule your FREE Emergency Ready Profile today at 349-6500.
Please let us help you if you are a victim of a fire damage. Call us at SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties at 662-349-6500
Did you know that half of all home fire deaths occur in bedrooms? That’s also where most electrical fires start too. However, you can easily prevent bedroom fires by following these essential safety tips:
Don’t run electric cords under the bed or carpeting. Don’t trap cords against a wall where heat can build up. Keep cords untangled to allow heat to dissipate. Never overload an extension cord.
Always supervise space heaters. Turn them off when leaving the bedroom or going to sleep.
Install arc fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs) to prevent fires in electrical switches. They shut off the circuit when an unintentional discharge of electricity occurs in the circuit.
Install tamper resistant receptacles (TRRs) in all rooms if you have children. These devices prevent them from inserting foreign objects like hairpins into the outlet.
Never put devices that are charging under bedding. Leaving a laptop on the bed can also cause a fire.
Only use laboratory-approved electric blankets and warmers. Don’t fold them as it may damage the wiring. Never sleep with an electric blanket turned on and regularly check it for overheating.
Keep flammable objects at least three feet away from heat sources, such as space heaters, candles, and electronics.
Keep lit candles away from combustible objects like bedding, curtains, and paper. Consider replacing burning candles with battery-operated flameless candles.
Use only mattresses that meet the 2007 Federal Mattress Standards.
Don’t smoke in bed — you might fall asleep with a lit cigarette in your hand and it could catch fire. Use fire-safe cigarettes as they extinguish more quickly.
Install smoke alarms inside and outside each bedroom. Test Smoke Alarms monthly and replace them every 10 years. Replace batteries once a year.
Create a fire escape plans. Make sure each room has two exits. Practice your home fire drill with everyone in the home at night and during the day twice a year.
For professional fire damage repair or smoke remediation services, contact SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties today at 662-349-6500.
Call SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties for all of your carpet cleaning needs! 662-349-6500
There are many people that try to clean their very expensive carpets and rugs all by themselves. What happens is that instead of cleaning these carpets, people often destroy their carpets when they try to do it themselves. This is why there are professional cleaners for this purpose. These cleaners will clean your carpets for you in the best way possible.
Here are some reasons why the professional cleaners are the best.
Quick service:
There is no doubt that you will get your carpets cleaned a lot quicker if you ire the professionals to do it. These professional cleaners know that your time is precious. So, they make sure that they get your carpets stain free as quickly as possible. This is why you will not have to wait a long time to get them to clean your carpets and rugs.
Affordable charges:
Another reason why these professional carpet cleaners are the best choice for your carpets is that they charge reasonable rates. You can get the professional cleaners service to clean your carpets at a very affordable price. This is why more people are going towards the option of professional cleaners. You will get your carpets look as good as new and that too at a reasonable price. What more can a person ask for!
Quality service:
One of the greatest fear that people have regarding their carpets is that the cleaning crew will destroy the quality of the carpet. With the professional cleaners you will have no such problem. All you will need to do, is to call them. They use the most modern and harmless products to get your carpets super clean and stain free.
Call the professionals at SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties for all of your mold remidiation needs. 662-349-6500
Depending on the severity of mold in your home, it can be quite the undertaking to remove mold from your home, often the best choice is to call a water damage restoration specialist like SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties. SERVPRO’s professional team will use top of the line equipment and their specialized expertise to bring back your home to a healthy, mold-free state. Once your home is returned to this state, it is important to practice mold-preventing habits.
Mold and mildew build up especially in places like bathrooms, laundry areas and basements. Here are some mold preventing tips that will help keep your home safe and clean:
Repair any plumbing leaks.
Put an exhaust fanin the bathroom.
Clean garbage cans weekly.
Remove bathroom carpeting if moisture is a concern.
Scour sinks and tubs at least once monthly with a diluted bleach solution.
Clean refrigerator door gaskets and drip pans.
Use an electric dehumidifier; drain the dehumidifier regularly.
Raise the temperature in the basementto lower humidity levels.
Promote ground water drainage away from your house.
SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties has water damage and restoration specialists who also help to restore structures with damage caused by fire and other disasters. Call us today at 662-349-6500. We are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Call SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties today no matter how big or small your water damage may be! 662-349-6500.
Rapid Response Recovery Time
Why should I choose a professional restoration company for water intrusion/ damage?
Homeowners and business owners should not risk doing the work themselves as there may hidden water or moisture that can go undetected to the untrained eye. Taking into account that mold growth can occur in as little as 24-48 hours in the presence of moisture, undetected water damage can pose long term problems if not properly handled.
Due to the potential hazards associated with water-related damage, moisture and water should be handled by properly trained and equipped professionals to ensure complete and necessary drying to prevent future harm, extensive structural damage and possible contamination.
Improper cleanup could hinder property re-sale value.
Professional restoration companies have essential tools and techniques to measure moisture in the area to ensure proper and complete drying in a timely manner.
Water technicians should be fully aware of water or moisture-related characteristics to locate leaks or water damaged areas that may otherwise go unnoticed.
Homes and other properties are large and often expensive assets. Why run the risks associated with improper drying, deodorizing and disinfecting which can lead to potential secondary structural damage? Help protect your property’s value by calling the professionals at SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties.
Why should I choose SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties for water cleanup and restoration?
SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties recognizes the necessity for prompt and accurate response and offer 1-4-8 Response Guidelines to help minimize additional, secondary or permanent damage and contamination. In addition, SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties is available for emergency response 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Knowledge and training are key elements in effective water removal and moisture damage. SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties applies their industry knowledge, training and understanding of how relative humidity, temperature, vapor pressure and air movement influence drying conditions.
Powerful and professional equipment is essential for proper mitigation and efficient restoration of water damaged areas. SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties is outfitted with state-of-the-art industrial grade equipment and products to measure the extent of moisture saturation and offer proper drying, deodorizing and disinfecting of water damaged areas.
SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties offers content restoration to restore water damaged contents and personal belongings. Often when water damage occurs, personal possessions are also damaged by moisture. SERVPRO Technicians work diligently to try and return personal contents to preloss conditions.
SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties works with insurance, real estate, contracting and property management companies to offer complete file management, estimates and detailed explanations of work, including status updates, changes and feedback to keep companies fully aware of a property’s drying, cleaning and restoration status. At SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties, we know you want quality information and proof of results. SERVPRO technology is designed to support your efforts!
Timely mitigation is key to the restoration process. Restoring property is the SERVPRO Professional’s first priority. You will appreciate the immediate response, and you will know everything possible is being done to limit the damage. Even if a loss is below the deductible amount, fast action helps assure the event will stay small!
Call SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties today at 662-349-6500 no matter how big or small your water damage may be!
SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties is part of the Disaster Recovery Team. Always here to help!
When a storm or disaster strikes, SERVPRO’s Disaster Recovery Team® is poised and “Ready for whatever happens.” With a network of over 1,600 Franchises, the SERVPRO® System strives to be faster to any size disaster. Strategically located throughout the United States allowing for a faster response time, SERVPRO’s Disaster Recovery Team®, is trained and equipped to handle the largest storms and highest flood waters.
Providing experience, additional manpower, equipment and other resources, the Disaster Recovery Team® assists your local SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals. SERVPRO’s Disaster Recovery Team® has responded to hundreds of disaster events, including those listed here.
In the aftermath of a disaster, there is only one objective, to help you make it “Like it never even happened.”
2014 Polar Vortex: Record low temperatures caused by a break in the North Pole’s polar vortex resulted in an unprecedented freezing event, spanning from east of the Rocky Mountains to as far south as Central Florida, effecting all or part of 39 states and 70% of the SERVPRO® Franchise system.
2013 Colorado Floods: Heavy rainfall, with amounts up to 17 inches in some areas, resulted in widespread flooding in Fort Collins, Boulder and surrounding Colorado mountain communities. The Disaster Recovery Team® responded with 109 crews from 48 Franchises to assist the local SERVPRO® Franchises in the emergency response.
2013 Alberta, Canada Floods: Heavy rainfall triggered flooding affecting more than 120,000 residents, and ultimately, the costliest disaster in Canadian history with damages estimated at C$5 billion, with C$1.7 billion in insurance damages.
2012 Hurricane Sandy: Affecting more than 20 states, Sandy left widespread damage and flooding from Florida stretching the entire eastern seaboard to Maine. The Disaster Recovery Team® placed nearly 1000 crews in affected areas, representing over 300 SERVPRO® Franchises from across the country. Teams traveled from as far as Arizona, California, Oregon and Washington.
2012 Hurricane Isaac: Hurricane Isaac caused flooding and damage across five states before weakening, including Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama and Arkansas. Nearly 100 SERVPRO® Franchises were activated to assist in the cleanup and restoration efforts.
2011 Hurricane Irene/Tropical Storm Lee: With storm damage spanning from North Carolina to New England, activation of the Disaster Recovery Team®, combined with local resources, placed approximately 1,000 crews in affected areas.
2011 North Dakota Floods: SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals provided restoration services to more than 400 residents and businesses, including municipal buildings and the area hospital. The SERVPRO® System sent hundreds of crews to help.
Call the professionals at SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties at 662-349-6500.
A few Sundays ago we lost an hour of sleep but I think we are finally getting used to it. The longer days are worth it now! This time of year we also are reminded to change the batteries in our smoke alarms. You should also check the manufacturing date on your smoke alarm and replace it if it is over ten years old.
Since half of home fire deaths occurring between the hours of 11 PM- 7 AM a smoke alarm can be the difference between just losing your home and losing your life. For more information on different types of smoke alarms and optimal alarm placement please see https://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/technology/.
If you have a fire at your home or business the technicians at SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Countites are highly trained in how to handle the cleaning of your home and contents. We will be sympathetic to you because we know that it will be a very stressful time for you. We hope you don't ever need us for a fire loss but if you ever do we will be here for you. Please call us at 662-349-6500.
Call the professionals at SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties for any size fire at your home or business at 662-349-6500.
Understanding the Behavior of SMOKE
The damage to your property following a fire can often be complicated due to the unique behavior 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. The SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties Professionals are thoroughly trained in fire cleanup and restoration and know the different types of smoke and their behavior patterns. Knowing this information is vital to proper restoration. Before restoration begins, The SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties Professionals will survey the loss to determine the extent of impact from fire, smoke, heat, and moisture on the building materials and contents. The soot will then be tested to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. Pretesting determines the proper cleaning method and allows the SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties Professionals to focus on saving your precious items.
The SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties Professionals know smoke can penetrate various cavities within the structure, causing hidden damage and odor. Their knowledge of building systems helps them investigate how far smoke damage may have spread. The following are additional facts you may not know about smoke.
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
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.
Fuel Oil Soot (Furnace Puff Backs) – While “puff backs” can create havoc for homeowners, SERVPRO Franchise Professionals can, in most cases, restore the contents and structure quickly.
Other Types (Tear gas, fingerprint powder and fire extinguisher residue) – Special loss situations require special care.
The SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties Professionals are trained to handle even the toughest losses. If your home or business suffers fire or smoke damage, contact the SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties Franchise Professionals to help make it “Like it never even happened.”
In 2014, fires caused 2745 deaths, 11,825 injuries, and $6.8 Billion in property damage.
Three out of five home fire deaths are caused by fires in homes with no smoke alarms or not working alarms.
Working smoke alarms cut the risk of dying in reported home fires in half.
In fires considered large enough to activate the smoke alarm, hardwired alarms operated 94 percent of the time, while battery powered alarms operated 80 percent of the time.
When smoke alarms fail to operate, it is usually because batteries are missing, disconnected, or dead.
One quarter of home fire deaths are caused by fires that start in the bedroom. Another quarter result from fires in the living room, family room or den.
One-third of survey respondents who made an estimate thought they would have at least 6 minutes before a fire in their home would become life-threatening. The time available is often much less. Only 8 percent said their first thought on hearing a smoke alarm would be to get out.
Facts provided by National Fire Protection Association, nfpa.org
WHAT TO DO UNTIL HELP ARRIVES
DO:
Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpet.
Keep hands clean. Soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork.
Place dry, colorfast towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas
If electricity is off, empty freezer/refrigerator completely and prop doors open to help prevent odor.
Wipe soot from chrome kitchen/bathroom faucets, trim and appliances, then protect these surfaces with a light coating of lubricant.
If heat is off during winter, pour RV antifreeze in sinks, toilet bowls, holding tanks and tubs to avoid freezing pipes and fixtures.
Change HVAC filters; leave system off until a trained professional can check the system.
Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers to stop particles of soot from getting in or out of the HVAC system.
DON’T:
Don’t attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without first contacting your SERVPRO® Franchise Professional.
Don’t attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture without first consulting your SERVPRO® Franchise Professional.
Do not attempt to clean any electrical appliances (TV sets, radios, etc.) that may have been close to fire, heat, or water without first consulting an authorized repair service.
Do not consume any food or beverages that may have been stored close to fire, heat or water, as they may be contaminated.
If ceiling is wet, do not turn on ceiling fans. Wiring may be wet or damaged and cause electrical shock, and air movement may create secondary damage.
Don’t send garments to the dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set in smoke odor.
Call the professionals at SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties today at 662-349-6500. No job is too big or too small!
For the vast majority of homeowners in Boise, mold damage does appear, at some point, in or around their property. And, a little spot of mold around the bathtub or the shower screen is nothing to be too concerned about. If it can be easily wiped away and does not produce a nasty smell, it is likely to be a good problem.
However, if you have spotted creeping patches of mold, which has an unpleasant odor, and makes the room feel clammy and uncomfortable, it is time to call in the experts. It could indicate a serious problem with mold damage. If this is the case, it needs to be handled by a professional team who can make sure that the unhealthy material is completely removed.
Understanding Containment
The first thing that will happen, after you have consulted a professional SERVPRO mold damage restoration service, is a discussion about containment. This may mean a number of different things, depending on how extensive the mold is and what type of spores you have in your home. If the problem is severe, containment may have to involve you temporarily moving out of the property.
However, this is quite a rare situation. Most homeowners take action early enough for it to be avoided. Partial containment helps restoration experts limit the spread of mold damage. Our professionals will seal off the problem area so that movement cannot dislodge and carry mold spores to other parts of the home. This is where heavy duty equipment will be set up to dry, repair, and treat the affected space.
The Outcomes of Mold Remediation
The primary goal of mold remediation is to restore the property to its pre-mold damage condition. In some cases, this will not be possible. If the damage is very extensive, there may be some parts of the building which cannot be saved. This is extremely rare, however, and a skilled mold restoration team is almost always able to bring a home back to full health.
The thing to remember is that the quicker you address the issue, the better the chance of a full recovery for your property. If you ignore what appears to be chronic mold, you risk the chance of it moving into walls and floors. This is much harder (and much more expensive) to repair, so invest your money in affordable prevention, rather than a costly cure.
Locally Owned Company with National Resources
If you would like more information on hiring a mold damage restoration team, call SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties at 662-349-6500.
Containment is Key When Performing Mold Remediation
Call the professionals at SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties if you need mold remediation! 662-349-6500.
When performing mold remediation work it's essential to have good containments. You want to ensure no spores are spread throughout other areas of the home that were not previously affected.
You will see in the before picture our containments are in place over the openings into the den. One has a zipper door for our technicians to access the work area and the other does not. You'll see in the after photo we have removed the affected materials, HEPA vacuumed, wire brushed the studs, sprayed an antimicrobial, and applied an encapsulating paint as per the protocol instructions.
If you require mold remediation services in your home or business give SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties a call! 662-349-6500. We will return your home or business back to preloss condition in no time!
Highly Trained Restoration Specialists
Our SERVPRO Professionals are highly trained in property restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO's Corporate Training Facility to regular IICRC industry certifications, our Professionals are equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. The SERVPRO training program includes the follow:
According to FEMA, failure to clean home dryers casues 34% of home dryer fires. Home dryer fires cause $35 Million in property loss and even can cause injury or death. To reduce the risk of these fires happening in your own home or business, SERVPRO can help clean dryer vents and ducts that may have lint buildup.
Other tips for keeping your dryer vents clean from the National Fire Protection Agency include cleaning the lint filter befroe and after each each load, and making sure the outdoor vent flap will openand is not restricted by snow, a birds nest or other potential obsticles.
If your home or business is ever affected by fire or smoke damage due to a dryer fire, call us in for a free estimate. Our trained professionals will work with you and your insurance to asses the damage and come up with a plan to get you back up and running as soon as possible.
Understanding Mold is VERY important. Call the professionals at SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Coutnies at 662-349-6500.
Understanding Mold
Microscopic mold spores exist naturally almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors, so removing all mold from a home or business is impossible. 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 they 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.
Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise the mold may return.
Let your nose lead the way. 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.
Understanding The Mold Remediation Process
Every mold damage scenario is different and requires a unique solution, but the general mold remediation process stays the same. The steps listed below illustrate the “typical” process:
Step 1: Emergency Contact - SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties at 662-349-6500
The mold cleanup and restoration process begins when you call our National Call Center. Our representative will ask a series of questions to help us determine the necessary equipment, resources, and personnel.
Step 2: Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment
SERVPRO Franchise Professionals will carefully inspect your property for visible signs of mold. Mold feeds on cellulose and water and can be hidden from plain view. They use various technologies to detect mold and hidden water sources.
Step 3: Mold Containment
They use various containment procedures to prevent the spread of mold. They may use advanced containment procedures like negative air chambers to isolate the contaminated area with physical barriers and negative air pressure to keep the mold spores from spreading during the cleanup process. All fans and heating and cooling systems will be turned off to prevent the spread of mold.
Step 4: Air Filtration
Their specialized filtration equipment allows their Professionals to capture microscopic mold spores out of the air. They utilize powerful “air scrubbers” and HEPA vacuums to prevent the spread of these mold spores while the mold remediation is in process.
Step 5: Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials
The mold remediation process depends on the amount of mold growth and the types of surfaces on which the mold appears. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals use antifungal and antimicrobial treatments to eliminate mold colonies and to help prevent new colonies from forming. Removing and disposing of mold-infested porous materials, like drywall and carpeting, may be necessary to remediate heavy mold growth.
Step 6: Cleaning Contents and Belongings
SERVPRO Franchise Professionals clean your furniture, decorative items, curtains, clothing, and other restorable items affected by mold. They use a variety of cleaning techniques to clean and sanitize your belongings. They’re also trained to remove odors and deodorization using fogging equipment.
Step 7: Restoration
Depending on the level of mold damage, drywall, subfloors, and other building materials may be removed. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet; or it may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.
You never know what is hiding in your ducting system! Call the professionals at SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties at 662-349-6500.
Dust, pet dander, and other containments from everyday living are circulated through your ducts and can decrease the efficiency of your HVAC heating and cooling system causing it to work much harder. Keeping the ductwork clean can extend the life span of the equipment by allowing it to operate at peak condition, which saves you money.
Duct Cleaning Can:
Remediate Bacteria, Fungi and Mold
Reduce Potential for Mold Growth
Restore Peak Energy Efficiency
Eliminate Offensive Odors
Since the ventilation system is often the biggest culprit in poor indoor air quality, keeping your ductwork clean 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. These Contaminants from day to day living are sucked into your HVAC system and recirculated throughout your home over and over. This causes a buildup over time inside the ductwork. This buildup can cause problems for people with asthma and other respiratory health conditions, auto immune disorders, and environmental allergies.
The EPA’s website states: “In the last several years, a growing body of scientific evidence has indicated that the air within homes and other buildings can be more seriously polluted than the outdoor air in even the largest and most industrialized cities. Other research indicates that people spend approximately 90 percent of their time indoors. Thus, for many people, the risks to health may be greater due to exposure to air pollution indoors than outdoors.” Cleaning your ducts can sweep away years of dust and dirt, helping to reduce potential for damage and health risks.
In some circumstances, such as after a fire, smoke or suspected mold growth, duct cleaning becomes an essential part of the cleanup process. This includes certain odors as well. In these cases a Duct Cleaning Professional can often restore the ductwork to pre-damage condition. It is also recommended that you have the ductwork cleaned after buying a home or after a renovation. Just like carpet cleaning, having your ductwork cleaned should be part of your home maintenance routine.
Tornadoes can strike without warning and destroy a community in seconds. Before a tornado warning is issued for your area, here are some things you should do:
1. Know your community’s warning system.
2. Pick a place where family members can gather if a tornado is headed your way. It could be your basement or, if there is no basement, a center hallway, bathroom, or closet on the lowest floor. Keep this place uncluttered.
3. If you are in a high-rise building and don’t have enough time to go to the lowest floor, pick a place in a hallway in the center of the building.
4. Remove diseased and damaged limbs from trees.
5. Move or secure lawn furniture, trash cans, hanging plants or anything else that can be picked up by the wind and become a projectile.
THUNDERSTORM SAFETY STEPS Thunderstorms injure an average of 300 people every year, and cause about 80 fatalities. Here are the top thunderstorm safety steps you should follow:
1. If you can hear thunder, you are close enough to the storm to be struck by lightning. Go to safe shelter immediately.
2. As the storm approaches, take shelter in a building.
3. If you are driving, pull off the roadway and park. Stay in the car with the windows closed and turn on the emergency flashers. Avoid touching metal or other surfaces that conduct electricity in and outside of the vehicle.
4. If you are inside, unplug appliances and avoid using the telephone or any electrical appliances. Avoid taking a bath or shower, or running water for any other purpose.
5. If you are caught outside and cannot reach a safe building, avoid high ground, water, tall, isolated trees and metal objects such as fences or bleachers. Picnic shelters, dugouts and sheds are not safe.
FLOODING Heavy rains could fill rivers and streams, bringing flooding to the area. If your neighborhood is threatened with the possibility of flooding, here are some things you should do:
1. 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.
2. Stay away from floodwaters.
3. 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.
4. Keep children out of the water.
5. Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize flood danger.
Download the free Red Cross Emergency App to receive emergency alerts and information about what to do in case of tornadoes, flooding and other disasters, as well as locations of shelters. The App also includes emergency first aid information and a Family Safe feature which allows people to instantly see if loved ones are okay. The free Emergency App is available in app stores by searching for the American Red Cross or going to redcross.org/apps.
How to Choose Between Mold Removal & Mold Remediation
Call SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties if you have a mold problem at 662-349-6500.
Discovering mold growth in your home can be an awful experience, and if left unchecked, mold can wreak havoc and destruction. Calling in experts to remove the growth can restore the safety of your home before the growth gets out of control. You need to be careful when choosing a professional because some may try to pull the wool over your eyes on how the process works.
What happens during this process is not a complete wipe of mold in the home. The reason why is because it’s impossible: mold spores are everywhere much in the same way bacteria is, and they can’t be destroyed in totality. Services who claim they can may either be misinformed or dishonest, so it pays to know ahead of time what you need for your home. A company with the experience and expertise to know the difference won’t lead you astray.
The professionals here at SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties can handle mold growths in home, whether they spring up or worsen over time. The true process is mold remediation, in which the source of the growth is addressed and treated until mold levels reach a safe, natural amount. It takes more than removing mold-infested surfaces and filtering in fungicides, so the root of the problem is the most important thing to tackle.
Even though mold spots look and smell unpleasant, they aren’t going to be the main concern. Any business that eliminates the physical threat of mold alone isn’t doing the whole job, which is why it’s important to distinguish between a “removal” and remediation. The obvious signs of a growth go when the actual cause of the mold goes, so make sure you’re getting the procedure you need done.
If you need a mold assessment give SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties a call today! 662-349-6500
Add a little value this spring by letting the professionals at SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties clean your restaurant! 662-349-6500
A new season is here in Tupelo, and it offers an opportunity to refresh your restaurant. Winter months normally mean windows stay shut, and dirt and grime from boots and heavy shoes gets tracked onto the floor. Similar to how people look forward to spring cleaning at home, you can do the same for your restaurant. SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties offers plenty of services that can help your business start the season fresh!
Clean Your Air Ducts and HVAC
Your air ducts and HVAC unit work hard throughout the winter to keep your customers and employees warm. The ventilation system should be properly cleaned in the spring to make sure the air quality in your restaurant is not poor. If it has not been serviced for some time, your air could be circulating dust, pollen, odors and dirt and debris. Our technicians and equipment can clean out your system and make sure everyone breathes easier in the new season.
Kitchen Cleaning
Checking the hoods in the kitchen is usually a twice a year job, so what better time to start than for spring cleaning. Cleaning the pilots lights (if it is gas) is also a good idea. Just make sure to follow manufacturer’s instructions. Empty and sanitize the ice machine, and wipe down walls, ceilings and dry storage areas. SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties offers great commercial cleaning options as well, so give us a call if there are items you want professionals to fix.
Rugs and Carpets
If your restaurant uses rugs or carpet, springtime is a great time to freshen them as well. If the furniture in your restaurant does not often move, tracks from normal foot traffic can start to wear down your rugs or carpets. When they become matted, these items also hold in an abundance of dust and debris that is carried in on shoes. A proper cleaning will get rid of the smells and the dust!
SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties is only a phone call away if you need a professional to help freshen up your restaurant for spring. 662-349-6500.
Improve the air quality of your business by getting a duct cleaning by the professionals of SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties! 662-349-6500
Sick Building Syndrome
In the 1970s, sick building syndrome became apparent as groups of people displayed similar symptoms of having spent extended periods of time in buildings with poor air quality. Good judgment and immediate attention can correct the situation and save you money in the event of litigation. People most at risk include:
Infants and children
Pregnant women
Elderly
People with compromised respiratory systems or asthma/allergies.
People with weakened immune systems
While molds are found naturally in the environment, an overabundance inside buildings is undesirable; some people can become ill. Experts disagree about the more controversial details of mold, but they all agree that if you have excessive mold, it needs to be removed.
Control Moisture and Reduce Mold
If you see mold, act within the first 24 to 48 hours.
Correct any water leaks or standing water.
Remove any standing water under cooling coils or air handling units.
Properly maintain humidifiers, if used.
Replace wet or visibly moldy insulation materials.
Proper Maintenance Saves Money
Estimates made by the World Health Organization say that poor indoor air quality costs $60 billion in employee sick leave and lost production.
Part of your responsibility to the tenants, workers and students who work and play in your buildings includes proper maintenance and prompt response to any situation that could cause illness or health concerns. SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties is available when it matters.
Clean Sweep for Ducts
When addressing air quality, inspecting the ductwork is SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, and Tunica Counties' first order of business. Dirty ducts can work to circulate odors and contaminants like mold and irritating dust throughout the building.
SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties uses a proven Portable Ventilation & Air Duct Cleaning System to examine ductwork and make a clean sweep removing years of dust and grime.
The SERVPRO Difference
Reduce potential for mold growth
Remediate bacteria, fungi, and mold
Restore peak energy efficiency
Eliminate offensive odors
Call SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties today at 662-349-6500.
We've all had tough stains that are hard to get out of our carpet. Call SERVPRO of DTT and let us help you get those tough stains out! 662-349-6500
Stains can make carpet appear more soiled than it really is, so no carpet cleaning method is complete unless all removable stains have disappeared.
A basic knowledge of different stains and chemicals for spot cleaning and removal is vital, since improper or indiscriminate use of spotting chemicals can worsen a problem.
Helpful Tips on Spotting
Always blot or scrape up as much material as possible before it soaks into the carpet.
For blotting liquids, use white paper towels or tissues. You might use a cloth, but is is less desirable. If used too long, the matter soaked into the cloth will re-deposit into the fibers and spread the stain.
For scraping solid matter, use a table knife. Never use a sharp instrument.
Never use soap. This frequently leaves a sticky residue that causes rapid re-soiling.
Do not allow solvent-based products to penetrate to the backing. They might damage and soften the latex compound used to strengthen the carpet backing.
If you ever have any questions about removing stains, please don't hesitate to call SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties at 662-349-6500.
We also offer a variety of other cleaning services:
Call SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties if you need help with your Spring Cleaning projects today!! 662-349-6500
Make doormats welcoming!
Shake 'em, wash 'em, swat 'em with a broom. Give them the toughest cleaning they can take. They’re your front line against tracked-in dirt—so keep them clean enough to function at peak efficiency.
Clean carpets and upholstery
Fabrics that have absorbed a winter’s worth of dirt, body oil, and germs will need a deep cleaning to get them ready for another year of wear—and for that close inspection by your relaxing guests. When you’re shampooing carpets or cleaning upholstery with a rented carpet cleaner, practice first in an unobtrusive area to make sure you have the knack of the machine and that the treatment won’t discolor fabrics or cause dyes to run. Move furniture just slightly—not out of the room or against the wall, as the old rules dictated—and place the legs of each piece back on top of small wax paper squares after shampooing. The wax paper will protect your carpet and keep the furniture legs from getting wet as the carpet dries. Open the windows to speed the drying process, which can take a day or more. If you’re not the furniture-shifting and machine-renting type, use a professional carpet and upholstery cleaner.
Wash walls, cabinets, baseboards, and woodwork
The walls may not look as if they need a bath—dust and soot fall to the floor, right? Most of it does, but just enough clings to vertical surfaces to warrant a seasonal or pre-holiday bath. Use a sponge and hand dishwashing detergent, washing the surface in sections. A sponge mop makes it easier to reach higher spots. Use two buckets: one for dishwashing detergent solution and another for wringing your sponge. Dry the walls and woodwork with a clean cloth.
Clean ceiling fixtures
Remove dust and dirt from ceiling fans and air-conditioner vents with a cloth and a vacuum with a soft nozzle attachment.
Check your coils
You should clean the refrigerator’s condenser coil, usually found behind the toe grille, with a long-handled bottle brush and a vacuum cleaner with an attachment hose to remove dust and lint. Built-up dust can shut down the unit by causing it to overheat. To remove dust from coils attached to the hard-to-reach back side of the fridge, carefully pull the refrigerator out several feet (newer models roll on casters) and vacuum thoroughly; finish by sweeping or vacuuming the floor area you’ve revealed. Expect to rediscover coins, bottle caps, and twist ties that you and the cat knocked over the past year.
Commercial Post Construction Cleanup & Restoration
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties helps ensure your finished projects always look their best!
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties now specializes in post construction cleanup and restoration. Structural integrity, materials, labor, safety, customer satisfaction and deadlines - the list goes on and on when building a commercial facility. The bottom line, however, is you are responsible for getting the doors doors open on time.
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties can help you meet your deadlines by providing thorough post-construction services in a timely manner. These services include:
Post-Construction Cleaning
Dehumidification and Drying
Final Cleaning
Fast-Track Drying
Emergency Response Restoration and Cleanup Services
Post-construction cleaning takes place once the floors are down and the dry wall is up. The debris and dirt needs to be removed in order to lay down carpet, paint, and decorate. SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties can provide the debris removal services to prepare the building for interior design.
During the construction phase, a building can trap moisture. Excessive moisture could result in mold growth. If you think one of your projects may have a moisture issue, rely on SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties to provide the help you need eliminating moisture and preventing the potential for mold growth.
If you want the facility to look its best when the doors open, SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties provides cleaning services to give the building that extra shine. Services include:
Carpet, resilient, and non-resilient floor prep and finish
Ceiling, walls, and fixture cleaning
Deodorization
Air Duct Cleaning
Debri Removal
Window Cleaning
Rely on SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties to help ensure your post-construction cleanup gets done as quickly as possible.
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties also offers the following system services:
SERVPRO of DTT is equipped with a variety of equipment for any size job. This is a picture of a dehumidifier we use on nearly every water damage.
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties understands that using the proper equipment makes a measurable difference in reducing claims loss expense. When time matters, technology and equipment must be counted on to perform. SERPVRO of DTT will answer you call with fast action, exceptional equipment, and trained, uniformed personnel. Certainly, the right tool for the job is vital to timely mitigation, but perhaps more important, these water damage professionals thoroughly understand how to dry a structure and person property effectively.
In a previous blog, we've talked about Psychrometrics, Detection Equipment, Extraction Equipment, and Air Moving Equipment. Today I would like to explain in detail how different Dehumidification Equipment and Deodorization Equipment.
Dehumidification Equipment: By extracting water vapor from the air, dehumidifiers lower the relative humidity , which in turn increases the rate of evaporation. In a water damaged structure, dehumidifiers pull in the moist, humid air and then discharge dry, warm air. The dry air acts like a sponge, absorbing moisture from wet materials. SERVPRO of DTT uses two types of dehumidifiers:
Refrigerant Dehumidifiers - work similarly to air conditioners
Desiccant Dehumidifiers - use chemicals, called desiccants, that readily absorb moisture from the air.
Deodorization Equipment: -
Ultra Low Volume (ULV) Foggers will atomize liquid deodorizing agents, producing fine mist that easily penetrates sites where odor-causing residues accumulate. The device can also be used to inject fungicides and disinfectants into wall cavities and other difficult-to-access areas.
Thermal Foggers dispense solvent-based products in large volume, dense fog suitable for confined areas. The fog consists of tiny particles of deodorant solution that pair with and neutralize odor-causing particles.
SERVPRO of DTT is available 24/7. Please call us today for all of your water and fire damage needs at 662-349-6500.
Water damages can happen to anyone, anywhere, at anytime. Call SERVPRO of DTT today at 662-349-6500. We will make it "Like it never even happened."
When you have a "Clean Water" water damage that is considered a Category 1 Water Damage. That water does not pose substantial threat to humans. Examples are broken water supply lines, tub or sink overflows or appliance malfunctions that involves water supply lines.
If you have a Category 1 or a "Clean Water" Water Damage at your home or business here are some tips to follow:
DO:
Shut off the water source of water if possible, or contact a qualified party to stop the water source.
Turn off circuit breakers for wet ares 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.
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 wood clothes pins to keep furniture skirting off damp floors.
Hang draperies with coated hangers to avoid contact with carpeting or floors.
Hang furs and 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 carpet to cause staining.
Leave Oriental rugs or other colored rugs on wet wall-to-wall carpets to cause staining.
Use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water possibly causing electrical shock or damaging the vacuum cleaner.
Use TVs or other appliances while standing on wet carpets or floors, especially not on wet concrete floors.
Turn on ceiling fans if ceiling is wet, or enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water.
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, and Tunica Counties is available 24 hours 7 days a week. Please call us today if you have a water damage at your home or business at 662-349-6500.
SERVPRO of DTT also offers the following services:
Fires can cause lots of damage...but SERVPRO of DTT can make it "Like it never even happened."
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, and Tunica Counties can help you in so many ways if you are a victim of a fire damage in your home or business.
What is Restorable:
Determining exactly what can be saved until everything is dry is usually impossible. We will set a follow-up date so we can monitor the drying process. In addition, the restoration process will be scheduled when the drying is complete. The can include floor preparation, tack strip replacements, carpet and pad installation, seaming, carpet cleaning and restoring, and furniture and contents cleaning. A scope of services will be provided.
Pre-Existing or Preloss Conditions:
During the course of cleaning, it is likely we will remove day-to-day soiling, which existed prior to your loss. We are happy to do so. If, however, the removal of pre-existing soil requires significant extra effort, our crews will be instructed to move on to the next item. Pre-existing damage, including visible mold growth, will also be noted.
Personal Items:
In the course of our survey and cleaning, we will sometimes be required to open doors, cupboards, etc. to qualify and/or restore the damage. If any of these areas contain personal items you would prefer to relocate before we start work, please let us know.
Overlooked Items:
Although our supervisors inspect all work, you should accompany the supervisor on the final walk-through and bring any overlooked items or concerns to the supervisor's attention.
Insurance Adjusters or Agents:
We are neither insurance agents nor adjusters. We cannot authorize anything to be replaced, repaired or painted. Our job is to preserve and protect, stop further damage from occurring and restore damaged items to their prior condition when possible.
Please call SERVPRO of DTT 24/7 in any Fire or Water Emergency at 662-349-6500.
SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica uses dry ice blasting as a fast and alternative to traditional methods of cleaning industrial production equipment.
Dry Ice Blasting is a revolutionary blasting method that uses dry ice pellets (CO2 in solid form) as the blasting material. The process is very environmentally friendly and provides a fast and effective alternative to traditional methods of cleaning industrial production equipment.
Dry Ice Blasting is a 3 step process:
1. Kinetic - When dry ice pellets are accelerated in a jet of compressed air and strike a surface at the speed of sound, they crack and loosen the coating of the surface being treated.
2. Thermal - The low temperature of dry ice pellets (-79 degrees C/-110 degrees F) makes coating brittle, cracks it and loosens it. This allows dry ice to permeate the coating.
3. Sublimation - Dry ice penetrates the coating and immediately sublimes (passes directly from solid to vapor state). This results in a 700-fold increase in volume, an explosive effect that lifts the coating off the surface.
The Benefits of Dry Blasting:
1. A dry cleaning process - Dry ice blasting is a completely dry process because dry ice pellets consists of CO2 and vaporize immediately on contact with the surface to be cleaned.
2. No waste disposal - The system produces no waste products. Only the coating that has been removed remains to be disposed of, and this can usually be swept or vacuumed from the floor.
3. Environmentally friendly - Dry ice blasting is completely non-toxic and no hazardous chemicals are used. Costs connected with the disposal of blasting materials and solvents are saved.
4. No abrasion - Dry ice blasting is non-abrasive and therefore surfaces are treated very gently. Wear and tear resulting from the use of steel brushes, scrapers and other blasting materials is avoided.
5. Improved production quality - Dry ice blasting often allows for your production equipment to be cleaned while in operation without the need for dismantling or costly downtime.
SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, and Tunica Counties also offers many other services:
RESTORATION SERVICES:
Fire, Smoke, and Soot
Water Removal and Dehumidification
Mold Mitigation and Remediation
Catastrophic Storm Response
Move Outs and Contents Restoration
Electronics and Equipment
Document Drying
Contents Claim Inventory Service
CLEANING:
Air Ducts and HVAC
Bio hazard, Crime Scene and Vandalism
Carpet, Upholstery, Drapes and Blinds
Ceilings, Walls, and Hard Floors
Deodorization
SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties is available 24/7! Call us today!
When Winter Weather Strikes...Servpro of Desoto, Tate, and Tunica Counties Strikes Back!!
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, and Tunica Counties is here is to help in any winter weather condition you may experience in your home or business. When winter weather strikes...we strick back!
Here are some tips to help prepare your home and business for winter weather:
1. Keep cabinet doors open during cold spells. This allows warm air to circulate around pipes.
2. Keep a slow trickle of water flowing through faucets, especially if the pipes for faucets run through unheated or uninsulated areas of your home.
3. Consider shutting off outdoor faucets. Find the shut-off vavle in the basement or crawl space and turn it to "off".
4. Ensure gutters are clean and secure. Leaves and debri accumulate, causing a damming effect on gutters, which could lead to roof problems and water damage.
5. Proper maintenance of your furnace can help reduce the risk of puffbacks.
6. Check your business property for downed tree limbs and branches. Weather, such as wind, heavy rain, ice and snow, can cause brances to fall, which could cause damage to the property and potentially cause personal injuries.
7. Inspect property, especially walkways and parking lots, for proper drainage to alleviate flood hazard potential.
8. Inspect all handrails, stairwells and entryways to address and correct potential slippery or hazardous areas. Install mats or non-slip surfaces and post caution signs where water could be present.
9. Let your Marketing Rep at SERVPRO of DTT start a Disaster Recovery Plan for your business. It will be too late before you realize you need it!
Pictured about is SERVPRO Corporate headquarters in Gallatin, TN.
SERPVRO of Desoto, Tate, and Tunica Counties' Mission Statement is to develop a team of quality people who focus on excellent service, fairness and mutual respect.
Founded in 1967, the SERVPRO Industries, Inc. Franchise System is a national leader of fire, water, mold and other specialty cleanup and restoration services. SERVPRO's professional services network of Franchises has responded to property damage emergencies ranging from multi-million dollar disasters to those suffered by individual businesses and homes. Providing coverage in 48 states, SERVPRO Franchise Professionals have established nationwide relationships with major insurance companies, commercial clients and individual homeowners.
In 1988, SERVPRO moved to Corporate headquarters from Sacramento, California to Gallatin, Tennessee. This was a strategic move to place the new location within 600 miles of 50 percent of the U.S. population and more SERVPRO franchises. In April 2005, SERVPRO again moved the corporate headquarters to a new 140,000-sqaure-foot building. The state-of-the-art building houses a newly designed training facility, the National Call Center and much more to meet the increasing growth of the Franchise System.
No storm is too big or too small for Servpro of DTT
In order to be fully prepared, you should have all pertinent and proper information in a written plan for east retrieval. Some key questions to consider when creating a person preparedness plan include:
Do you have an escape or evacuation route in place?
Do you have a designated meeting place in case of separation?
Does everyone have a list of contact information including family members out of state who can serve as a point of contact?
Do you have a disaster supply kit with necessary supplies?
Do you have a first aid kit that includes necessary prescription medicines, over-the-counter medicines and basic medical supplies?
Do you have enough non-perishable food and bottled water?
Do you have access to important family documents, including insurance policies, bank, credit card, and loan information and family records such as birth certificates and social security cards?
Do you have an inventory of valuable household goods?
A well-equipped disaster supply kit should include, but is not limited to, the following,
Water - a large enough supply to provide each person with 1 gallon daily for drinking and sanitation.
Food - enough to last 3-7 days. Food needs to be non-perishable or canned food. You will also want to include a non-electric can opener, paper plates, and plastic utensils.
Bedding including sheets, blankets, and pillows.
Clothing - remember it may be warm, however, you may be working and cleaning and may prefer pants or long sleeves to protect your skin. You will also need sturdy, closed toe, non-slip shoes if available.
First aid kit including antiseptics or sanitizers and bandages, over-the-counter and prescription medications.
Extra flashlights and batteries. Oil lanterns also provide a good source of light, if available.
Toiletries including toilet paper and hygiene items. Hand sanitizers are also good to have on hand.
Battery-operated radio with extra batteries so you can listen to weather service announcements.
Cash - you will want some cash and small bills on hand as banks may not be open.
Emergency phone numbers and contact information including insurance agent and family contacts.
Tools, tarps, plastic sheets, trash bags, duct tape, etc. to help make minor repairs.
Important documents should be kept in a waterproof bag or plastic sealed container and should include insurance, medical and family records, birth certificates, social security cards, bank account information and a complete home inventory analysis.
Gas - fill you car's tank ahead of time if time permits. You may also want to fill plastic gasoline-approved containers with gas to store.
Pet care items including food, leash and a carrier or cage.
Don't wait until it is too late; prepare not to help protect your family in an emergency or disaster situation.
Call SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, and Tunica Counties today to help us prepare your family at 662-349-6500.
SERVPRO of DTT Understands No Damage is Small When it Comes to Your Home
Our GOAL at SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, and Tunica Counties is to make it "Like it never even happened."
Your home is truly a reflection of you, your tastes and your personality. Suffering damage to your home can feel like a part of you has been damaged as well. We recognize a loss can make you feel vulnerable, invaded or robbed of part of your life. Your loss is unique - in how it started, the emotions experienced and the extent of the damage.
When damage affects your home, you want it to be restored to pre-loss condition. You cannot afford to let the marketability of your home be affected. That is why SERVPRO has professionally restored properties for over 40 years.
SERVPRO is the trusted choice for hundreds of insurance companies nationwide, because they know SERVPRO has the experience to do the job right.
The SERVPRO Experience:
Fast Response - Uniformed technicians will arrive on-site usually within four hours of notification.
Convenient Service - With over 1,500 Franchises servicing 48 states, a SERVPRO Franchise is nearby.
Damage Containment - Timely response can mean the difference between restoring property and replacing it.
Extensive Experience - The SERVPRO Franchise System has been a leading provider of fire and water cleanup and restoration for over 40 years.
Vast Resources - The SERVPRO Franchise System has large loss capabilities and can handle any fire or water damage - no matter how big or small.
Call SERVPRO of DTT today for your water or fire damage needs at 662-349-6500.
Call SERVPRO of DTT if you are the victim of vandalism today! 662-349-6500.
Halloween is just around the corner is and it is prime time for vandalism and pranks. If you are the victim of vandalism here are some tips you can follow:
DO:
Hose or wash egg damage from building exterior as soon as possible.
Vacuum glass particles from carpets and upholstery.
Save containers which reveal the ingredients of spilled inks, cosmetics and paints.
DON'T:
Attempt to remove ink, paint or cosmetic stains.
Operate damaged lamps or appliances.
Discard furniture wood chips, broken pieces from porcelain, furniture or art objects.
Call SERVPRO of DTT today if you need help cleaning any of your valuable items at 662-349-6500.
We offer many services other than cleaning vandalized properties and items. We also offer the following services:
RESTORATION:
Fire, Smoke, and Soot
Water Removal and Dehumidification
Mold Mitigation and Remediation
Catastrophic Storm Response
Move Outs and Contents Restoration
Electronics and Equipment
Document Drying
Contents Claim Inventory Service
CLEANINGS:
Air Ducts and HVAC
Biohazard, Crime Scene and Vandalism
Carpet, Upholstery, Drapes and Blinds
Ceiling, Walls, and Hard Floors
Deodorization
Important Information - Water Damages at SERVPRO of DTT
Call SERVPRO of DTT at your first sign of a water damage at 662-349-6500! Our goal is to make it "Like it never even happened."
In order for SERVPRO Desoto, Tate, and Tunica Counties to start our emergency and restoration service, you must sign the "Service Authorization Form". This allows us to take action immediately. We do not know your insurance coverage; therefore; it is impossible for us to know exactly what your insurance will cover. it is important to understand you are financially responsible for our services. Your deductible is payable before we start work. If for any reason insurance coverage cannot be verified at the time of our emergency service, and additional deposit may be required.
HOW WE PROCEED:
The following steps may be completed in the emergency service, as determined to be applicable by SERVPRO of DTT:
Identify Source: We will check for the source of moisture in your building. The source must be stopped before any restoration or drying of the building can be successful.
Identify Water Type: We will identify the category and classification of water damage to ensure we restore your property based on industry guidelines. The level of contamination of the water will affect the specific restoration processes we use. Those levels include clean, grey, or black water.
Survey Extent of Damage and Inspect the Premises: We inspect and test the damaged area to determine the extent of damage and how far the moisture has traveled to ensure proper and complete restoration. In addition, we will inspect for safety concerns which may be evident. If there are any safety issues or you are aware of any asbestos containing materials before our arrival, please bring them to our attention.
Identify Signs of Visible Mold Growth: Visible mold growth and moldy, musty odors may indicate the source of a moisture or water intrusion. if extensive mold is evident, we will need to consult your adjuster or property manager before completing additional work.
Furniture Moved and Blocked in Place: We move furniture and property contents and block items to help prevent rust or furniture stains on wet carpet.
Emergency Water Extraction: We remove as much excess water as possible from affected areas.
Carpet Pad: We check whether the carpet pad should be removed to save or protect the subfloor.
Treatments: Our process may utilize deodorizers as odor treatments or EPA-registered disinfectants as antimicrobial treatments.
Disposal: We will remove and dispose of damaged materials with guidance from you and your adjuster.
Floor and Wall Inspection: We check the extent of wet flooring, subfloors, and walls.
Carpet: We examine carpet for damages and remove damaged carpet with guidance from you and your adjuster.
Measure Temperature/Humidity for Drying Analysis: We monitor the temperature and humidity levels to make sure conditions are conductive for drying.
Equipment: Drying equipment removes moisture and brings the relative humidity level back to normal. We monitor moisture in we materials until the materials return acceptable drying goals.
Tips for Preparing Your Business for Winter Weather:
Check your business property for downed tree limbs and branches. Weather, such as wind, heavy rain, ice and snow, can cause branches to fall, which could cause damage to the property and potentially cause personal injuries.
Inspect property, especially walkways and parking lots, for proper drainage to alleviate flood hazard potential.
Inspect all handrails, stairwells and entryways to address and correct potential slippery or hazardous areas. Install mats or non-slip surfaces and post caution signs where water could be present.
Ask your rep at SERVPRO of Tupelo about starting your Disaster Recovery Plan for your business.
Tips for Preparing Your Home for Winter Weather:
Keep cabinet doors open during cold spells. This allows warm air to circulate around pipes.
Keep a slow trickle of water flowing through faucets, especially if the pipes for faucets run through unheated or uninstalled areas of your home.
Consider shutting off outdoor faucets. Find the shut-off valve in the basement or crawl space and turn it to "off".
If you follow the previous step, then open the outdoor faucet to help ensure it drains completely and the inner valve is shut off.
Ensure gutters are clean and secure. Leaves and debris accumulate, causing a damming effect on gutters, which could lead to roof problems and water damage.
Proper maintenance of your furnace can help reduce the risk of puffbacks.
FROZEN PIPES - - A frozen pipe can burst at the point where the ice blockage inside the pipe is located, but typically the rupture is caused by the backflow pressure between the water source and the blockage. A burst pipe can cause considerable damage to your property if not addressed quickly.
ICE DAMS - - Ice dams can be a major problem during the winter season. They form when heated air melts roof snow downward into water dammed behind still0fromzend ice. When the trapped water cannot safely flow or run into the gutter system, it can backflow under the roof's shingles and into the structure's interior areas.
PUFFBACKS - - A puffback is a messy furnace malfunction that occurs when an oil burner backfires, sending soot throughout your home or business. It can happen all at once, covering an interior in grimy soot, or a puffback can leak soot particles more gradually.
When Disaster Strikes, You Can be Ruined or You Can BE READY!
50% of businesses may never reopen after suffering a disaster...but SERVPRO of DTT is here to help!
SERVPRO of DTT is committed to providing fire and water cleanup and restoration services to reduce business interruptions and recovery costs. SERVPRO can provide:
Over 40 years of experience as leading fire and water cleanup and restoration providers.
A SERVPRO franchise nearby - more than 1,500 franchises servicing 48 states.
More locations for faster responses.
Quick response time to help ensure the damage is contained and the restoration process begins promptly.
Large loss capabilities - no fire or water damage is too big.
As many as 50% of businesses close down following a disaster, according to the latest 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. And knowing you are "Ready for whatever happens" speaks trust to your clients and employees that in the event you business is affected by a disaster, they don't necessarily have to be.
By developing a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile for your business, you help to minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Know what to do, who to call and what to expect in advance is helpful in receiving timely mitigation and can help minimize the affects water and fire damage can have on your business.
Please stay off flooded roads. Drivers often misjudge the depth of water on a road during a flood and can be swept away in a swiftly moving current.
Floods rank as one of the most common widespread natural disasters in the United States. Whether you live near a coastline, along city streets, in the mountains, near a river, or even in the desert, there is a potential for suffereing flood damage. In fact, nearly 25% of last year's claims paid by the National Flood Insurance Program were for plicies in moderate to low-risk communites. According to NFIP, houses in the United States have a 26% chance of being damaged by a flood during the course of a 30 year mortgage, while businesses face similar risks by flooding. On average, floods cost $6 billion in annual losses in the U.S. The following are a few more little-known flood facts:
Floods kill an average of 140 people per year in the U.S., making flooding the most deadly natural disaster.
More than half of the fatalities during floods are auto related, often the result of drivers misjudging the depth of water on a road and being swept away in a swiftly moving current.
The principle causes of lfoods in the eastern United States are hurricanes and storms.
The principle causes of floods in the western United States are snowmelt and rainstorms.
Underpasses can be some of the most dangerous places during a flash flood - especially at night, when it's difficult to see.
If flood damage to your home or business is not promptly mitigated, lingering moisture from floodwater may elevate the risk of mold growth. SERVPRO of Tupelo can properly remediate mold damage in your home or business. Even minor floods have the potential to cause major damage to the structure when not treated quickly and properly, and the cleanup is often overwhelming. SERVPRO of Tupelo is prepared to handle and size disaster and help make it "Like it never even happened."
Call SERVPRO of Tupelo at 662-690-6502 if you are a flood damage victim.
If you have a water damage call SERVPRO of DTT today!!
(662) 349-6500
The Right Equipment
SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties understands that using the proper equipment makes a measurable difference in reducing claims loss expense. When time matters, technology and equipment must be counted on to perform. We at SERVPRO of DTT will answer your call with fast action, exceptional equipment, and trained, uniformed professionals. Certainly, the right tool for the job is vital to timely mitigation, but perhaps more important, we are water damage professionals that thoroughly understand how to dry a structure and personal property effectively.
Detection Equipment
Scoping involves locating the areas of the structure affected by water and defining the extent to which the structure and contents have absorbed moisture. Moisture detection devices are also used to verifty that an environment has been dried thoroughly.
Moisture Sensors are used to detect moisture in carpets, baseboards, and walls.
Moisture Meters are used to determine the actual moisture content of various materials.
Thermohygrometers measure both temperature and relative humidity.
Extraction Equipment
The most effective method of removing moisture from a structure is extraction. This is why it is critical to respond quickly to a water damage and to provide emergency mitigation services. When the water is extracted quickly, the environment can usually be dried much faster.
Air Moving Equipment
Air movers are used in water damage restoration to enhance evaporation at the surface level, thereby reducting drying time. As airflow at the surface level increases, the moisture in the air increases. The moisture is then eliminated via the use of dehumidification equipment.
Dehumidification Equipment
By extracting water vapor from the air, dehumidifiers lower the relative humidity, which in turn increases the rate of evaporation. In a water damaged structure, dehumidifiers pull in moist, humid air and then discharge dry, warm air. The dry air acts like a sponge, absorbing moisture from wet materials.
Call SERPVRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties at (662) 349-6500 if you need help with your water damage today!!
To keep your upholstered furniture clean and looking its best at all times, weekly vacuuming is important, especially on the cushions. Routine vacuuming will prolong the life fo the fabric as well as extend the time between professional cleanings.
If at all possible, keep furntiure out of direct rays of sunlight. The ultraviolet rays of direct sun will fade any fabric. Never brush fabric with a stiff fiber or steel brush which may distort the fabric. If cushions are reversable, reverse their position each week when vacuuming them.
Upholstery spotting must always be done with caution. Pre-test the product you use in an inconspicuous place on the back of the furniture to make certain there will be no damage. In the SERVPRO Spotting Kit, there is a Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner that will give you excellent results. Be sure to pretest it.
Drapes
The routine care of your drapes is relatively easy since they do not receive the same physical treatment your carpets and furtniture do. Vacuuming the drapes on a scheduled basis is the most important job you can perform. Dust particles in the air adhere to the drapery material more rapidly than sometimes meets the eye. On days when hte air is dry, a static charge will build up in your drapes which attracts dust particles at a considerably higher rate.
If you have any questions about how to clean and maintain your carpets, drapes, or upholstery, call SERVPRO ofDeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties at (662) 349-6500.
Servpro of DTT specializes in crime scene and biohazard cleanup.
Bloodborne Pathogens
SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties removes and disposes of bodily fluids, tissue and potentially pathogenic substances resulting from accident, trauma, crime, or death. Our technicians are trained to thoroughly clean, disinfect and deodorize the structure.
Methamphetamine Labs
Many of the chemicals used in the production of illegal drugs such as methamphetamine are volatile and can leave harmful residues througthout a structure. SERVPRO of DTT follows federal and state guidelines to properly clean all surfaces.
Crime Scene Residue
From fingerprint powder and evidence-gathering chemicals to tear gas and pepper spray residues, we can clean and restore you property and contents.
Arson and Vandalism
SERVPRO professionals are recognized as leaders at helping property owners recover quickly from fire and water damage. SERVPRO of DTT also provides general cleaning and deodorization services for situations resulting from vandalism including graffiti, egg, spoiled foods and human or animal waste.
Sewage Backup
Sewage backups and black water intrusions are more than nasty, smelly deposits - these damages also introduce harmful microorganisms into a structure. We remove the sewage, contaminants and moisture, disinfecting as we clean. SERVPRO of DTT will help ensure the structure is properly cleaned, disinfected and deodorized.
Please call SERVPRO of DTT today at (662) 349-6500 for all of your biohazard cleaning needs.
When the storm is the major event, you need more comprehensive restoration support. SERVPRO of DTT is "Ready for whatever happens."
Catastrophic Storm and Major Event Response
The SERVPRO Disaster Recovery Team can provide help whether you're dealing with a tornado, hurricane, blizzard or flood. The SERVPRO System has a network of strategically positioned storm teams on standby should a disaster strike near you. Available 24 hours a day and 365 days a year, we are prepared for the unpredictable.
With the ability to mobilize local command centers, along with the resources of more than 1,650 Franchises nationwide, no disaster is too big. Recent mobilizations of the Catastrophic Storm Response Teams include:
2014 Polar Vortex
2012 Sandy
2010 Nashville floods
2008 Ike
2007 Chicago floods
2007 Ohio floods
2007 California wildfires
2005 Katrina/Wilma/Rita
Please call SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties today at (662) 349-6500 for any size storm damage.
SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, and Tunica Counties is Faster to Any Size Disaster
Unexpected emergencies like severe weather call for immediate action. SERVPRO of DTT knows immediate reaction to the disaster is important to helping you get our life back to normal.
We utilize a 1-4-8 Service Response Guideline and strive to:
Contact you within 1 hour from notice of loss to arrange for service.
Be on-site to begin mitigatiion services within 4 hours of notification.
Provide a verbal briefing of scope to you within 8 business hours of on-site arrival.
SERVPRO of DTT also provides pack-out services, which is removing salvageable personal property from the affected area for off-site cleaning and storage.
If you don't have an Emergency Supply Kit already, these are the items we recommend you have in your kit:
Water (one gallon per person per day)
Food (non-perishable 3-day supply)
Manual can opener
Battery operated radio
Flashlight and extra batteries
First aid kit
Whistle to signal for help
Clothing
Dust masks or bandanas
Plastic sheeting, garbage bags and duct tape
Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
Local maps
Hygiene items
Important documents - copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account information
Cash
Fire extinguisher
Matches in a waterproof container
Call SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, and Tunica Counties today for any size disaster at (662) 349-6500.
If You Think You Have A Mold Problem Call SERVPRO of DTT
SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties professionals handle water damages every day and know prompt action is required to prevent mold growth. Mold is more likely to spread when an environment has been subject to moisture for a long period of time. If your property has sustained a recent water damage, it is vital to remove excess water and dry the structure promptly. If there is an ongoing moisture porblem in the building, it is important to be alert for:
1. The presence of visible mold.
2. Strong musty odors which may indicate mold is present.
3. Any evidence of past moisture problems that might have caused undetected mold growth.
4. Excessive humidity.
These conditions may require the expertise of a qualifed Indoor Air Quality/Environmental Professional to inspect the building for mold growth and water damage problems.
If you think you might have a mold problem, call SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties at (662) 349-6500. One of our team members that is tranined in mold remediation will examine the structure for any visible signs of mold.
SERVPRO of DTT's goal is to make it...Like it never even happened.
No matter how the fire started, a rush of emotions and feelings of panic seem to follow. After the calling the Fire Department to put out the fire, who do you call to help you clean up the damage caused by the fire?
SERVPRO of DeSoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties is here to help you any time, day or night. Here is an overview of our fire damage process:
ONE HOUR: Within one hour from notice of loss, SERVPRO of DTT will contact you to arrange for service. You'll know help is on the way!
FOUR HOURS: Within four hours of loss notificiation, SERVPRO of DTT will be on-site to start mitigation services. The key to reducing damage and saving money is repsonding quickly to your damage.
DETAILED EXPLANATION: A trained, uniformed and equipped SERVPRO of DTT professional will walk you through the job process step-by-step, explaining what to expect and anticipated outcome.
PRETESTING: We will begin pretesting for restorability, working from the source of the damage outward.
EIGHT HOURS: Within eight business hours of on-site arrival, a verbal breifing of the scope will be communicated to the appropriate person, normally your adjuster or property manager.
CLEANING, RESTORATION, & DEODORIZATION: We will work neatly and efficiently to help you regain control of your property when a damaging event has taken over. They will use state-of-the-art restoration techniques to ensure your property is taken care of right the first time.
FINAL WALK-THROUGH: After the work has been completed, a final walk through will be conducted with your to help ensure your satisfaction.
Call us today at SERVPRO of DTT at (662) 349-6500 for all of your fire restoration needs.
Call SERVPRO of DTT today if you are a victim of vandalism damage.
Vandalism and graffiti can be very upsetting. It can range from relatively minor pranks to malicious destruction of property. Often simple acts of vandalism, like breaking a window, can cause significant water and mold damage if not addressed in a timely manner.
Need Vandalism and Graffiti Cleanup Services? Call SERVPRO of DTT Today at (662) 690-6502!
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties will act quickly to remove vandalism and graffiti from home and commercial spaces. In addition to removing spray-painted graffiti from exterior walls, they can also clean driveways, walkways, asphalt, metals, wood, glass, plastic, and masonry
SERVPRO of DTT professionals are trained to safely and effectively clean biohazardous substances and prepare waste for proper disposal according to OSHA, EPA, and state and local health regulations.
If you are a victim of vandalism, here are a few tips for you:
DO:
1. Hose or wash egg or other residue damage from building exterior as soon as possible.
2. Carefully vacuum glass particles from carpets and upholstery.
3. Save containers revealing the ingredients of products used in vandalism damage.
4. Record all damage and photograph when possible.
DON'T:
1. Attempt to remove ink, paint, or cosmetic stains.
2. Operate damaged lamps or appliances.
3. Discard broken or damaged pieces from porcelain furniture or other contents that may be used for repair.
Call SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties today for all of your carpet cleaning needs!
Cats may be considered one of the cleanest animals and dogs may be man's best friend, but neither is necessarily a carpet's best friend. Negleted animal stains have always been a problem.
Two types of reactions can take place between the chemicals in the urine and those in the fiber dye. Some dyes change color as soon as urine comes in contact with them. Often original color can be restored by immediate addition of a weak solution of ammonia and white vinegar. Pick an inconspicuous area of the carpet and test small amounts of solution to determine its effect on the fiber and dye. The other change develops slowly over a period of several months and results in a permanent change of fiber dye. Along with the dye change, some fibers become weakened or destroyed. After cleaning, these areas are more obvious because the soil, which hid the true color, has been removed.
The next time you are confronted with an animal accident, immediately absorb as much liquid as possible. Use the directions and products in your SERVPRO Home Spotting Kit, specifically made for these types of cleaning tasks. If you no longer have a Spotting Kit, wash the area with a solution of one teaspoon of neutral detergent (containing no bleach) to one cup of lukewarm water. Absorb into white tissues or toweling. Add a white vinegar solution (one part whtie vinegar or two parts water). Absorb as dry as possible. Place a 1/2 inch layer of white absorbent matieral over the area and weight down. Allow to dry for about six hours.
If immediate action is taken to remove the stain in this manner, no change in color should occur, and that forgotten accident will not become apparent after your carpet has been professionally cleaned.
To schdule your residential carpet cleaning today, call us at SERVPRO of DTT at (662) 349-6500.
How SERVPRO of DTT Can Help With Your Fire Restoration Services
SERVPRO of DTT will make your fire damage "Like it never even happened."
Structure Cleaning
After a smoke or fire damage, ceilings, walls, woodwork, carpeting and floors will often need a thorough cleaning. SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties will pretest to determine the extent of damage, and then use the specific equipment and cleaning products required to clean and protect the different types of surfaces found in your structure. Depending on the amount of soot, SERVPRO of DTT may even be able to reduce the cost of recovery by cleaning lighter soot deposits found on some surfaces, eliminating the expense incurred with repainting or refinishing. In other cases, SERVPRO of Tupelo will clean to "prepare for painting". This process deodorizes and ensures the new paint will adhere properly to the surface.
Contents Cleaning
All of the restorable contents in affected areas will be professionally cleaned and deodorized. This includes area rugs, furniture, draperies and upholstery. SERPVRO of DTT begins by carefully inspecting and testing all fabrics in the structure to determine which cleaning methods are most appropriate. SERVPRO of DTT can provide wet or dry cleaning services. Additionally, all the other restorable contents will be cleaned and deodorized to preloss condition. This includes electronics, art, wood furniture, kitchen items, clothing, bedding, bric-a-brac and much more. Finally, SERVPRO of DTT can provide an inventory list of all "to be claimed" items if requested.
Call us today at (662) 349--6500 and we will make it "Like It Never Even Happened."
Once The Fire Is Out, Who Will Help You Put The Pieces Back Together?
Within 4 hours of loss notification, SERPVRO of DTT will on-site to start mitigation services.
The leading causes of fire in a home include:
Cooking
Heating Units
Electrical
Smoke
No matter how the fire started, a rush of emotions and feelings of panic seem to follow. After calling the Fire Department to put out the fire, who do you call to help you clean up the damage caused by the fire?
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, and Tunica Counties professionals are trained in the cleanup and care of your home and personal belongings following a fire incident. Before attempting to clean up fire damage yourself, call SERVPRO of DTT at (662) 349-6500.
No matter how careful you are, accidents are going to happen to your floor coverings. When these minor accidents do occur, quick action is most important. The Home Spotting Kit is a complete package for emergencies, as well as a handy product to use between professional cleanings. The Spotting Kit contains four seperate cleaners, one concentrated refill and the absorbent matrix powder. These are many of the same products that SERVPRO of Tupleo use. The use of these products or a combination of several products will remove over a hundred differnt kinds of spots. The most important single factor in successful spot removal is to work on the spot while it is still fresh. Often our cleaning professionals have difficulty only because the spot has dried into the carpet ans has set or dyed the carpet fibers. This kit should be kept in your utility closet just as you keep aspirin in the medicine cabinet for emergencies.
To order your Home Spotting Kit, call us today at SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties at (662) 349-6500!
SERVPRO of DTT Biohazard, Vandalism and Crime Scene Cleanup
Call us today at SERVPRO of DTT for your biohazard cleanup needs!
Recognized as a leading fire and water cleanup and restoration provider by hundreds of insurance companies nationwide, SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, and Tunica Counties offers fast, reliable biohazard and crime scene cleanup and restoration services to residential and commercial property owners.
Exposure to biological and chemical contaminants can pose serious health consequences for builing occupants, employees, customers and owners. A failure to properly handle and safely remove such hazardous substances can contribute to unhealthy and even dangerous environments.
SERVPRO of DTT professionals are trained to safely and effectively remove biohazardous substances and prepare waste for proper disposal according to OSHA, EPA, and state and local health regulations. Equipped with the necessary safety equipment and cleaning products, SERVPRO of DTT professionals help turn unsafe enfironments into clean, safe homes and offices. We can help with:
Did you know mold can spread throughout your Hernando, MS 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 allergens and irritants.
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 Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties (662) 349-6500
Call us at SERVPRO of DTT for your odor removal needs today!
As experts in deodorization, SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties are trained to identify and eliminate offensive odors. These odors can come from a number of sources both inside and outside a structure.
SERVPRO teaches IICRC technical classes in the proper removal of odors. Masking and other short cuts don't work when your odor problem is serious or persistent.
We have the training and equipment to identify and eliminate these offensive odors. By identifying the cause of the odor and determining the conditions in which it contact any surfaces, the odor can often be removed over time without a trace. Our technicians have access to several odor removal products capable of penetrating surfaces to neutralize an unpleasant odor throroughly.
The science of identifying and eliminating odors can be a tricky thing, so give us a call, and leave the restoration to us.
Did you know there were three different water categories? When you become a victim of a water damage, SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties will inspect the contaminated water to determine the type of water and then plan the appropriate response to safely restore your home or business.
Here is an explanation of each of the different water categories:
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.
Water from a clean source like a broken water line
If left untreated, can degrade into category 2 or 3
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.
May contain bacteria and viruses
Can quickly degrade into category 3 if left untreated
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.
May contain untreated sewage, harsh chemicals, and microbes
Water from flooding rivers or sewer backup
24 Emergency Service - Call us at (662) 349-6500
Sewage backup should be considered an emergency and dealt with as quickly as possible. We are the water damage restoration specialists with specific training and expertise to safely restore your home or business.
Call SERVPRO of DTT to schedule your carpet cleaning today!
Have you ever wondered how often you should actually get your carpet cleaned?? According to IICRC, they recommend homeowners have their carpet cleaned 1-2 times a year!! Not only does clean carpet look good, it promotes indoor air quality, reduces health risks, and extends the life of the carpet.
Carpet cleanings should be maintained on a schedule, just like changing your air conditioner vents! If you have indoor pets, have large families, or someone smokes inside your home, increasing the frequency would be very beneficial for you!
We also offer a range of specialized cleaning methods:
Bonnet Cleaning: A less aggressive method for short piled carpets.
Hot Water Extraction: A deeper cleaning method for all carpet types.
Deluxe Precondition and Rinse: Helps restore deeply soiled areas.
Showcase Premier Cleaning: The most thorough cleaning method in the industry.
Dry Cleaning: When color-fastness is an issue
Call SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties today at (662) 349-6500 to schedule your carpet cleaning today!
Call SERVPRO of DTT for your Commerical Spring Cleaning Needs Today!
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties loves spring cleaning!
You don’t have time to worry about the common wear and tear that gradually soils your office. When grime, odor, and moisture challenges go beyond the scope of your regular janitorial staff, you should call SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate & Tunica Counties for prompt service. Whether it’s removing an odor problem or deep cleaning flooring or carpets, you can rely on us to make your workspace look its very best.
Have Questions? Call Today – (662) 349-6500
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate & Tunica Counties offer cleaning services ranging from cleaning restaurant hoods to removing biohazard contaminants. We have the specialized training and products to get your property back to business. Our cleaning services include the following:
Call us at SERVPRO of DTT immediately if you have water damage at your home or business. Every second counts!
Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties 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 Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties 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 – (662) 349-6500
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 Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties:
SERVPRO of DTT 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.
For Immediate Service in Southaven, MS, Call SERVPRO!
We provide immediate service day or night at SERVPRO of DTT!
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster in the Southaven, MS 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
(662) 349-6500
Residential Services
Whether your Southaven, MS 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 Southaven, MS 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.
Commercial Water Damage Restoration
Commercial Fire Damage Restoration
Hot Water Tank Leak in Attic Causes Major Damage in Sarah, MS
Hot water heater caused major Water Damage to a Sarah, MS home
One pipe leak can result in major water damage throughout many rooms in a home. Yesterday in Sarah, MS the hot water heater that was in the attic caused damage in several rooms below. Typically in these situations, you don't know there is a problem until it's too late!
SERVPRO of DTT was able to respond to the water damage the same day the job was called in. We were able to extract the water, remove damaged structure, and set up drying equipment. We will monitor the job daily until all structure is dry!
It is recommended that you check your hot water heater on a regular basis, especially if it's in your attic. When your hot water heater is in your attic it is even more important to keep a maintenance schedule and to stick to that schedule. If your hot water heater is slowly leaking, it won't take much time for the pan to begin to overflow from a 50 gallon water tank. The bottom of the water tank can then rust. Also, the leak can cause moisture in the air that can then cause mold!
Things we don't see often, or ever for that matter are easy to forget! If you are a victim of a hot water heater water damage, call us at SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica counties today! (662) 349-6500
What a difference a day makes from SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties!! Duct cleaning before and after picture.
Ventilation systems are often the biggest culprit in poor indoor air quality. Make it a priority to inspect the ductwork of your home or business.
If your HVAC has been operating for some time without attention, it could be circulating one or more of the following:
Dust
Pollen
Odors
Dirt and debris
Other contaminants
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties Professionals routinely inspect the heating, ventilation and air conditioning unit (HVAC). Keeping them clean can extend the life of the equipment. This can in turn save you money and give you cleaner air to breathe.
However, duct cleaning is not always necessary. We will make recommendations about the best way to address any indoor air quality concerns. This can save you money and provide peace of mind on the health of your system.
The benefits of servicing your HVAC unit include:
Helps to restore peak energy efficiency.
May help to eliminate offensive odors.
Helps reduce the potential for mold growth.
For more information on HVAC and air duct cleaning, call us today, (662) 349-6500.
SERVPRO of DTT Helped at Commerical Mold Job in OIive Branch, MS
Mold job at commercial building in Olive Branch, MS
In as little as 48 hours, mold can quickly become a problem in your home or business when there’s a water intrusion, like a roof leak or leaking water line. Mold can cause health effects and can also cause significant damage to your property. SERVPRO of DTT Professionals have the training, protective gear, and specialized equipment necessary to handle your mold problem.
We at SERVPRO of DTT are trained and equiped for any size mold job, residential or commerical. The first step in mold remediation is to find and stop the source of the problem! We recentely helped a commerical customer in Olive Branch, MS with their mold problem!
Here are a few tips if you find MOLD in your home or business:
What to Do:
Stay out of affected areas.
Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
Contact a SERVPRO of DTT 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.
If you encounter mold at your home or work, please call us today at SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, and Tunica Counites!
Statistics show that 2 out of every 5 fires begin in the kitchen. SERVPRO of Desoto,Tate, and Tunica Counties has a lot of experience working with fire damage and restoring customers homes "Like it never even happened".
Just last week we helped a customer in Senatobia, MS that was a victim to a kitchen fire at their home. This is a terrible time for anyone to have to go through, but letting SERVPRO of DTT helps to take the worry and stress away, especially in the beginning stages of this traggic event.
Here are tips from the American Red Cross to Avoid Cooking Fires:
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.
We hope you and your family never has to experience a fire damage in your home, but if you do please call SERVPRO of DTT at (662) 349-6500 24 hours a day, 7 days a week!
For Immediate Service in Desoto County, call SERVPRO of DTT
Desoto County Residents: We provide immediate service day or night!
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster in Southaven, MS and surrounding areas. 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 (662) 349-6500
Residential Services
Whether your Southaven or surrounding 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 Southaven, MS 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. Learn more about our Commercial services at: http://www.SERVPROdesototatetunicacounties.com/commercial-restoration-cleaning
We are thankful for our firefighters and all they do!
Today we celebrate our Firefighters! We are beyond thankful for the men and women that risk their lives every day to keep us safe and fire free!
We at SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties don't get to thank our firefighters enough for the hard work they do every single day. We do want each and every one of them to know how thankful we are for them and how much we truely appreciate all of their work and efforts!
Here are some fun facts about firefighters!
1. It all started with a bucket! A bucket brigade to be exact! One line would pass buckets full of water to the fire, and the other would pass empty ones back to the well to be refilled. Glad we've upgraded since!
2. Most firefighters are volunteers! Of the more than one million firefighters, 73% of those are volunteers.
3. The Dalmation isn't just a cute mascot! Dalmations were first chosen because they could guard the horses and equipment at the firehouse and on location at fires.
4. They carry around an extra 60 pounds - - that's like carrying around a 9 year old!
5. Benjamin Franklin not only invented the lightning rod and bifocals, he is responsible for the first fire company in Philadelphia!
We at SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties are here to help in the aftermath of a fire. Call us today at (662) 349-6500 so we can help you today!!
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties is hosting a Continuing Education Class July 14!!
SERVPRO of DTT has you covered for any size water damage! Will learn more about water damages in our upcoming CE class!
SERVPRO of DTT is hosting a Continuing Education Class for Insurance Agents and Adjusters July 14, 2016. There is no charge for the class and lunch will be provided!
The title of the class is "Restorative Drying for Water Damage". It is a 4 hour credit class. The class will be held at our new office at 1160 Stateline Road East, Southaven, MS. We will begin at 9:00am and the class will last until 2:00.
Please let our office know or your SERVPRO rep know you will be attending the class! The course numbers are:
Got Mold?? Call us today at SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties! We can help!!
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 allergens and irritants.
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 – (662) 349-6500
We at SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties have a Family Emergency Plan, do you??
We want all of our SERVPRO customers and potential SERVPRO customers in Hernando,MS and surrounding areas to have a family emergency plan. The first step to being prepared in any situation is to have a plan. There's no place where that plan matters most than at home with the ones you love most. Do you have a family emergency plan in place today??
Here are a few tips from the American Red Cross:
"The American Red Cross suggests some basic steps to make sure you remain safe:
Meet with your family or household members.
Discuss how to prepare and respond to emergencies that are most likely to happen where you live, learn, work and play.
Identify responsibilities for each member of your household and plan to work together as a team.
If a family member is in the military, plan how you would respond if they were deployed.
Plan what to do in case you are separated during an emergency
Choose two places to meet:
Right outside your home in case of a sudden emergency, such as a fire
Outside your neighborhood, in case you cannot return home or are asked to evacuate
Choose an out-of-area emergency contact person. It may be easier to text or call long distance if local phone lines are overloaded or out of service. Everyone should have emergency contact information in writing or saved on their cell phones.
Plan what to do if you have to evacuate
Decide where you would go and what route you would take to get there. You may choose to go to a hotel/motel, stay with friends or relatives in a safe location or go to an evacuation shelter if necessary.
Practice evacuating your home twice a year. Drive your planned evacuation route and plot alternate routes on your map in case roads are impassable.
Plan ahead for your pets. Keep a phone list of pet-friendly hotels/motels and animal shelters that are along your evacuation routes."
Please take action today to have a family emergency plan in place and make sure every family member is familar with that plan! If you have any questions about creating your own Family Emergency Plan, please contact us at SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties at (662) 349 - 6500 and we will be glad to assist you!
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties is equipped for all size storm damages.
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties specialize 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.
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 restoration costs.
When storms hit Southaven, MS and surrounding towns 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 at (662) 349-6500!
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica has been on site cleaning up biohazardous material due to a death today in Southaven, MS. The technicians has handled this situation in a very professional matter just like any other task.
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica has been busy cleaning & treating a home in Coldwater, MS that's owned by Sandra. She thought she only had a small area that needed our attention, but after inspection, our team found that an entire bedroom, bathroom, & closet needed to be cleaned & treated for mold. She was very pleased with the work done & does not have to worry anymore about her families health being affected.
Nicole in Hernando, MS called needing her parents carpet cleaned by tomorrow. SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties has her an appointment scheduled for tomorrow morning at 10 am.
An owner of a commercial business in Horn Lake, MS called during the weekend needing emergency services. After SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica Counties responded, they found it had affected over 2,000 square feet. It took several hours to extract the water & set equipment to begin the drying process, but the professional technicians were glad to help the customer in their time of need.
Space heaters, though beloved for the warmth they provide, can be extremely dangerous if not used properly. Make sure you are keeping your family safe.
Michael from Hernando, MS called after he seen water leaking from his ceiling. He found that the toilet upstairs had been leaking all day. The professional technicians from SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica are scoping the home now to see how extensive the damage may be and have began the water mitigation process.
A commercial business in Olive Branch, MS had an electrical fire on Monday. SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica has been onsite cleaning all week to assure the business can be up & running soon.
David from Southaven, MS thought his home was destroyed after the washer overflowed & caused damage to several rooms of his home. The professional technicians assured him they will have it looking 'like it never even happened'.
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica has scheduled numerous carpet cleanings for customers in Southaven, MS this week. Call today to schedule your appointment.
Willie in Holly Springs, MS come home to find his water line on his fridge had been leaking all day. SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica is in route to begin the water extraction and remediation process.
Tracy in Nesbit, MS called today due to her toilet tank breaking and caused water damage to several rooms of her home. SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica have extracted the water & are now drying the walls and floors.
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica has been busy at Sue's home in Walls, MS. She had a fire last night that was quickly put out, but it did cause smoke damage. The professional technicians have began the fire mitigation & hope to have her back in her home soon.
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica has been busy assisting Sharon in Holly Spings, MS today. She had a pipe bust inside her wall which caused water damage to several rooms in her home.
Kay in Potts Camp called SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica today in need of services. Her home had caught on fire due to a grease fire. Even under the untimely circumstance, she was very pleased with how professional the technicains were and the excellent job they had began.
Freddie called from Senatobia, MS stating a pipe under the kitchen sink leaked 3" of water in bottom floor of his home. SERVPRO of Desoto responded to the call this afternoon & are still extracting the water.
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica was busy cleaning up after a fire damaged a customer's home in Olive Branch, MS during the night. It is still unknown what may have caused the fire, but the professional technicians have began the fire mitigation process.
A pipe busted in the ceiling of a customer's home in Holly Springs, MS causing the some ceilings to come down & affect the entire home. SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica responded to the customer's desperate plea for help. They have been onsite cleaning up the aftermath.
A customer in Hernando, MS had a huge mess after their toilet overflowed & effected 6 rooms in the home. SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica responded to the call & immediately began extracting the water.
A customer in Byhalia, MS called with a pipe leak under the sink in the bathroom. SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica repsonded to extract the water & begin the water mitigation process.
A customer in Hernando, MS called during the night because their hot water heater line busted during the night. It was upstairs in the attic so it has effected several rooms in the customer's home. The crew responded & extracted the water & set up equipment to begin the drying process.
SERVPRO of Tupelo was onsite at a customer's home in Golden, MS this morning to perform a duct cleaning. The customer was very pleased with the work & thankful for the professionalism of the technicians.
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica has been busy extracting water from a commercial business in Memphis, TN this afternoon due to a pipe leaking under a bathroom sink.
A customer in Coldwater, MS was having some plumbing issues addressed by their plumber and he accidently busted a pipe. The plumber called and requested for SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica to extract the water from the rooms effected.
A customer in Olive Branch, MS had a significant amount of biohazard that had to be cleaned today due an unforseen circumstance. SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica have been cleaning up the aftermath in a professional manner as always.
A customer in Byhalia, MS discovered a slow leaking pipe underneath the kitchen sink this morning. Thankfully he was able to cut off the water until the professional technicians from SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica could arrive to extract the water from the flooring.
A customer in Hernando, MS called with water damage to all rooms in the downstairs of his home from an unknown source. He attempted to extract the water himself, but it was overwhelming. SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica repsonded to the call & the customer was very thankful & pleased with the with the work performed.
A customer in Lake Cormorant, MS had a fire last night & tried to put it out with water. They were so thankful when SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica arrived to begin the fire/water mitigation process.
A customer in Walls, MS was very upset when they come home this afternoon. Their sewage has backed up & affected 7 rooms. SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica has arrived on site & began the water mitigation process.
A customer in Hernando, MS called today saying his toilet overflowed & was unsure of how much damage had been done. After the technicians of SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica arrived, they found it to be a much bigger issue than the owner has suspected. He was very thankful for their help & professionalism.
An overflowed washing machine caused some damage to a customer's home in Marvell, AR this afternoon. SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica was called in to clean up the aftermath.
SERVPRO of Desoto,Tate, & Tunica was called to a customer's home in Senatobia, MS due to a toilet overflowing. To some this may not seem serious, but it's very important with this type of water damage be cleaned up in a timely & professional manner.
A customer from Coldwater, MS called with a water leak from an unknown source. After SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica arrived, they cut the water of & began to extract the water. By doing so they have saved many of the customer's belongings.
The professional technicians have been on site doing at a commercial fire in Southaven, MS today. An apartment caught on fire upstairs & collapsed onto another apartment. It's been a huge task, but the highly trained technicians have been making progress & have began the fire restoration.
A customer in Memphis, TN thought she had a termite problem, but it turned out to be mold underneath her home. SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica have been at the home beginning the mold remediation process.
A customer has a relative that's deaf & washed the dishes last night. Afterwards the lady forgot to cut the water off so it ran for 8-9 hours & flooded the home. SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica have almost all of the water extracted today & placed air movers & dehumidifiers in the home to continue the drying process.
A customer in Tunica, MS is having some remodeling done in his home. The contractor called stating the main water line broke & has flooded the master bathroom & bedroom. SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica have been on-site extracting the water & assessing the situation to prevent any other further damage.
A facility in a Memphis, TN called needing carpet & upholstery cleaned today. Call SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica for your commercial cleaning needs.
A customer called from Olive Branch, MS stating she had water everywhere in her bathroom, hallway, & seems to be spreading to other rooms of her room. When SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica arrived the water was turned off & the plumber said the pipe inside the wall where the shower was had busted. They immediately began extracting the water & assessing the damage.
An ac leak at a customer's home in Horn Lake, MS had them confused at where to begin, but one call to SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica had them assured they would not have to worry long. The highly trained technicians already have the water extracted & have started the water mitigation process.
Numerous calls have come into the office of SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica concerning HVAC cleanings in the Southaven, MS area. Call us today to get your appointment scheduled.
A customer in Robinsville, MS called stating she had a house fire that began in the kitchen during the night and was unsure of where to begin. SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica has been on the scene all day to cleaning up the destruction.
A customer in Coldwater, MS called stating his home has been sprayed by several skunks. He said the odor was so foul that they are unable to stay at the home. The technicians from SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica counties come out, set up equipment, & had the family back in their home in 24 hours.
SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica has another satisfied customer today. A lady in Nesbit, MS had an appointment to have her carpet cleaned in 3 bedrooms, living room, & game room. She was very happy with the end result & said she would be recommending her church to us in the near future.
A customer from Tunica, MS called stating he had smoke damage due to gas logs. SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica has responded to begin the fire restoration process so the homeowner can relax in a healthy environment.
A pipe busted in the kitchen of a commercial business today in Olive Branch, MS. SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica responded in less than an hour. The manager & owner were very impressed & thankful.
We have received several calls about mold inspection & mold remediation today. All have scheduled appointments to begin the process. Just remember whenever you have a water damage it is very important to have it all cleaned properly to prevent mold. SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica is here to make your home, business, or office look "Like It Never Even Happened".
A customer experienced some flooding due to heavy rain earlier today in Southaven, MS. The crew from SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica are on the scene performing water mitigation.
A customer in Memphis, TN called with a residential fire over the weekend. SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica responded within in less than 2 hours to begin the fire restoration process.
A customer in Holly Springs, MS that works night shift woke up to a flooded home from an unknown source. He said one call to SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica put him at ease knowing he was in good hands. .
Jason in Hernando, MS was pleased with his air duct cleaning this morning. Not only is he keeping his family's health in mind, he's also preventing mold & other issues. Schedule your appointment today with SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica.
A toilet leak caused extensive water damage to a home in Olive Branch, MS. SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica was called in to take charge of the situation.
Deborah in Horn Lake, MS has a busted hot water heater line. The professions technicians at SERVPRO of Desoto, Tate, & Tunica are in route to assist her.
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