Preparation For The Storm

Name: SERVPRO of Elk Grove / Laguna
Address: 9743 Kent Street, Elk Grove, CA, 95624
Telephone: (916) 525-1241

11/28/2022 (Permalink)

How to prepare for your next storm:

Be aware of low-elevation spots that could flood.
Store emergency items such as first aid kits, flashlights and portable radios in a safe, high place.
Store drinking water in closed, clean containers in case water service is interrupted. Allow one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days.
Consider installing a back-flow prevention device if any of your inside drains or fixtures are lower than the side sewer vent on the sidewalk.
Prepare written instructions on how to turn off electricity, gas and water if authorities advise you to do so. (Remember, you'll need a professional to turn them back on.)

Need help after a major storm? Call SERVPRO of Elk Grove / Laguna at 916-525-1241. We are here to help 24/7!

Choosing The Right Restoration Company

11/28/2022 (Permalink)

According to the IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) there are a couple of reasons to choose a professional over doing it yourself. Below are a few reasons:

The process of fire and water restoration is very involved when it is performed properly.
With quick reaction time and the appropriate skill set, a technician can help to prevent further damage and repair that which has already been done
The process and equipment used during fire and water restoration will vary from case to case, since different materials require their own unique care.
For fire damage, general cleaning is done to remove ash and soot from ceiling to floor.
The quick remediation of the problem is important for more than repairs, it is also a health consideration
Choose a company for fire and water restoration with the appropriate licenses and proof that they have the proper insurance.
Whether the work to be done is in a commercial or residential location, technicians with experience and certification should perform the damage recovery.

Call us at SERVPRO of Elk Grove / Laguna (916) 525-1241 so we can help you with your water, fire or mold damage

Before The Flood Here’s What To Do!

11/28/2022 (Permalink)

Things to know and do before the flood

Reduce the risk of damage from flooding by elevating critical utilities, such as electrical panels, switches, sockets, wiring, appliances and heating systems.
In areas with repetitive flooding, consider elevating the entire structure.
Make sure basements are waterproofed and your sump pump is working. Then, install a battery-operated backup in case of power failure.
Installing a water alarm will also let you know if water is accumulating in your basement.
Clear debris from gutters and downspouts.
Anchor any fuel tanks.
Move furniture, valuables and important documents to a safe place.
Store copies of irreplaceable documents (such as birth certificates, passports, etc.) in a safe, dry place. Keep originals in a safe deposit box.
Build an emergency supply kit. Food, bottled water, first aid supplies, medicines and a battery-operated radio should be ready to go when you are. Visit govfor a complete disaster supply checklist.
Plan and practice a flood evacuation route. Ask someone out of state to be your “family contact” in an emergency, and make sure everyone knows the contact’s address and phone number.
Make a pet plan. Many shelters do not allow pets. Make plans now on what to do with your pets if you are required to evacuate your residence.

Immediate Services For Elk Grove / Laguna

11/17/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Elk Grove / Laguna provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster in Elk Grove. 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 – 916-525-1241

Residential Services

Whether your Elk Grove 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 Elk Grove or Laguna 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.

Commercial Water Damage Restoration

Personal Hygiene And Washing After A Disaster Is Important

11/17/2022 (Permalink)

When disaster strikes, SERVPRO of Elk Grove / Laguna is here to help. We also pulled together some tips courtesy of the CDC:

Good basic personal hygiene and hand washing are critical to help prevent the spread of illness and disease. Clean, safe running water is essential for proper hygiene and hand washing.
Hygiene is especially important in an emergency such as a flood, hurricane, or earthquake, but finding clean, safe running water can sometimes be difficult. The following information will help to ensure good hygiene and handwashing in the event of an emergency.
Disaster Supplies Kit (Hygiene Supplies)
Before an emergency, make sure you have created a Disaster Supplies Kit.
Handwashing
Keeping hands clean during an emergency helps prevent the spread of germs. If your tap water is not safe to use, wash your hands with soap and water that has been boiled or disinfected. Follow these steps to make sure you wash your hands properly:
Wet your hands with clean, running water (warm or cold) and apply soap.
Rub your hands together to make a lather and scrub them well; be sure to scrub the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails.
Continue rubbing your hands for at least 20 seconds. Need a timer? Hum the "Happy Birthday" song from beginning to end twice.
Rinse your hands well under running water.
Dry your hands using a clean towel or air dry them.
A temporary hand washing station can be created by using a large water jug that contains clean water (for example, boiled or disinfected).
Washing hands with soap and water is the best way to reduce the number of germs on them. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers can quickly reduce the number of germs on hands in some situations, but sanitizers do not eliminate all types of germs.
Hand sanitizers are not effective when hands are visibly dirty.
When to Wash HandsPhoto of cupped hands under running water.
Wash hands with soap and clean, running water (if available):
Before, during, and after preparing food
Before eating food
After using the toilet
After changing diapers or cleaning up a child who has used the toilet
Before and after caring for someone who is sick
After blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing
After touching an animal or animal waste
After touching garbage
Before and after treating a cut or wound
Other Hand Hygiene Resources
Food and Water Safety and Hand Hygiene Resources
Handwashing: Clean Hands Save Lives
Do not use contaminated water to wash dishes, brush your teeth, wash and prepare food, or make ice.
Bathing
Bathing after a water-related emergency should only be done with clean, safe water. Listen to local authorities for further instructions. Sometimes water that is not safe to drink can be used for bathing.
Dental Hygiene
Brushing your teeth after a water-related emergency should only be done with clean, safe water. Listen to local authorities to find out if tap water is safe to use.
Visit the Safe Drinking Water for Personal Use page for more information about making your water safe for brushing your teeth.
You may visit CDC's Oral Health Web site for complete dental hygiene information.
Wound Care
Keeping wounds clean and covered is crucial during an emergency. If you have open cuts or sores, keep them as clean as possible by washing well with soap and clean, safe water to control infection. If a wound develops redness, swelling, or drainage, seek immediate medical attention.
When providing first aid for a wound, clean hands can help prevent infection (see Handwashing on this page). Visit Emergency Wound Care After a Natural Disaster to find complete information on caring for wounds.
Healthcare professionals should visit Emergency Wound Management for Healthcare Professionals and Management of Vibrio vulnificus Wound Infections After a Disaster.
For complete details visit: https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/floods/sanitation.html

Be Storm Ready, But Storm Prepared

10/31/2022 (Permalink)

Keep Emergency Kits on hand

There are many things you can do to prepare for a bad storm or other emergency. One of these is to have a Home Emergency Kit/Car Emergency Kit on hand. These kits are usually a collection of basic household/automobile items that you will need in an emergency, whether it’s a bad storm, a fire, or any other unexpected emergency. Try to assemble your kit as soon as possible so that it will be ready in case of an emergency and don't forget to rotate new items in so when you need it there will not be expired or out-of-date items. You can also purchase premade kits from The Red Cross or other resources.

Have an emergency plan prepared

Depending on the severity of a storm or other event, it may take some time for help to arrive. Services like electricity and phone might be cut off for over a week. Emergency plans should be prepared with this information in mind. In addition to your emergency kit, which should include flashlights, batteries, and water, make an overall emergency plan with your family. Determine a place to meet if you need to leave your home in a hurry. Assign each member of your home with a task to make sure everyone gets out safely, including pets. SERVPRO offers an Emergency Readiness plan for businesses, but households should have a plan as well.

Know who to call to help with storm damage

Should your home experience significant damage during a storm, know who you can contact quickly to come out and assess and repair the damage. SERVPRO offers storm damage cleanup and restoration. With 24-hour emergency services offered, we’re “faster to any disaster”, with our highly trained technicians ready to help. Locally owned and operated, SERVPRO can help with storm, water, fire, or mold damage. Keep our information on hand as part of your emergency preparedness.

Learn About Storms

5/26/2022 (Permalink)

When heavy rains and high winds hit hard, property destruction and loss can be devastating to you as a homeowner. Structural damage to the exterior of your home is followed by interior devastation from water and winds. Storm damage is rarely isolated to just a few buildings in an area adding the challenge of finding a restoration company that can respond swiftly to your needs to an already anxiety provoking situation. SERVPRO delivers the help you need swiftly even when a local disaster is widespread as we are able to call upon a network of over 1,650 franchises nationwide to respond if the need is great.

Storm damage can feel overwhelming, but your fear and panic will disappear when our team of professionals responds to your water, wind and flooding repair and restoration needs. Your particular situation is of paramount importance to us, and you need not worry that your repairs and restoration will take a back seat even when many in your area are struggling to recover from the same issues you face. Choosing our company puts in motion a vast support system, but our local ownership means you will receive a personalized approach to your particular situation, efficiently returning your home back to its pre-storm condition just “Like it never even happened.”

Placing your trust in SERVPRO for your storm damage needs will reap you benefits that less qualified companies simply cannot deliver. We use state of the art equipment to clean, repair and restore your home and in the process, we also restore you and your family’s peace of mind. Our technicians are highly trained and qualified, current in Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IIICRC) for any procedure needed to bring your home back to the comfortable and comforting refuge you deserve. We also work closely with your insurance company, ensuring that all the work necessary is approved and compensated according to the terms of your policy. Our high standards and relentless drive to do the job on time while meeting local specifications means you and your family will quickly return to the quiet enjoyment of your house and neighborhood. We are not satisfied until you are happily back in your restored dwelling.

Dial (916) 525-1241 24/7 and begin the road to recovery by scheduling an inspection with our storm damage experts.

Using Sand bags for Storms

4/27/2022 (Permalink)

Major storms are hitting California. Sandbags can help keep floodwaters out of your home and property.

However, do you know how to correctly fill a sandbag? The recent storms in Northern California have many scrambling to get the sandbags ready. Watch this quick video from Sacbee.com for tips and suggestions.

http://www.sacbee.com/news/weather/article124928364.html

Preparing for a large storm is important. However, if your home has already been damaged by floods or other water, please contact SERVPRO of Elk Grove / Laguna at 916-525-1241. Our service teams are on call and ready to help you in your time of need 24 hours a day and 7 days a week.

About SERVPRO of Elk Grove / Laguna

SERVPRO of Elk Grove / Laguna 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.

Follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/SERVPROelkgrovelaguna/ and online http://www.SERVPROelkgrovelaguna.com.

Be Prepared For A Storm

4/27/2022 (Permalink)

Do not let a storm take you off guard. Be prepared. Experiencing storm damage? Call SERVPRO of Elk Grove / Laguna at 916-525-1241 to help you. We are available for 24/ emergency service.

On CA.gov you can find storm readiness information. Consider the following from their site:

California's historic drought remains severe, and residents must continue to conserve water. At the same time, we must also prepare for the possibility of large storms and coastal/bay flooding.

Weather predictions indicate that large storms may come in the coming months due to warming in the Pacific Ocean known as El Niño.

Storms in California sometimes cause flooding, mud flows, landslides, electrical outages and other impacts.

Using water wisely while taking steps to prepare for winter storms and coastal/bay flooding will help to protect our households, our communities and our state.

Information on this website updates weather conditions and shares what Californians can also do to prepare.

An overview of preparedness for winter storms can be found on the State's Winter Readiness Fact Sheet.

For more information visit: http://storms.ca.gov/

For more details on how SERVPRO of Elk Grove / Laguna can help you during a storm situation visit: http://www.SERVPROelkgrovelaguna.com/storm-flooding-restoration

Be Prepared For A Storm

2/10/2022 (Permalink)

Do not let a storm take you off guard. Be prepared. Experiencing storm damage? Call SERVPRO of Elk Grove / Laguna at 916-525-1241 to help you. We are available for 24/ emergency service.

Are you at Risk of Flooding?

California Flood Preparedness: This website provides information about the types of flooding and floodplains in California, suggests for ways to prepare for flooding, and ways to take action.
CalOES MyHazards Tool: MyHazards is a tool for the general public to discover hazards in their area (earthquake, flood, fire, and tsunami) and learn steps to reduce personal risk. Using the MyHazards tool, users may enter an address, city, zip code, or may select a location from a map.
gov: Actions to Take during Flood Watch or Warning: This page explains what actions to take when you receive a flood watch or warning alert from the National Weather Service for your local area and what to do before, during, and after a flood.
NOAA Weather-Ready Nation: This initiative focuses on support management of the nation’s water supply, understanding of climate-related risks, economic productivity, healthy communities and ecosystems.in the face of increasing vulnerability to extreme weather and water events.
California Department of Water Resources – All Flood and Safety Topics:The Department has compiled flood topics including: California dam safety, Delta Levees, flood control projects and maps, flood fighting methods, grants and loans, surface storage investigations and much more to help Californians prepare for storms.
California Coastal Commission El Niño Checklist: To prepare for impacts due to flooding, unusually large waves, heavy precipitation, and erosion, coastal Californians can begin to take measured steps now.
FEMA Flood Map Service Center (MSC):The FEMA Flood Map Service Center (MSC) is the official public source for flood hazard information produced in support of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).
FEMA Risk Mapping, Assessment and Planning (Risk MAP):This page discusses the Risk MAP program and what the program can mean to communities.

Is Your Home Safe from Flooding?

California Department of Water Resources: Know Your Flood Risk Mailer: Resource on how to help prepare, prevent and protect yourself from flood risks.
California Department of Water Resources Flood Risk Notification Program: Reduce your flood risk by being aware and being prepared. Use this site to increase your flood risk awareness and learn practical, easy ways to protect you and your property from costly flood damages.
Flood Fighting at Home Brochure(.pdf): Tutorial on easy ways to keep water out of your house.

Visit http://storms.ca.gov/individual-preparation/ for more storm preparation ideas.

Making Your Home Storm Safe

11/19/2021 (Permalink)

You may not have experienced a flood but that doesn't mean you won't in the future. When catastrophic water damage happens to you, SERVPRO of Elk Grove / Laguna can help. We can help you prepare ahead of time with an Emergency Ready Profile® (ERP) or respond to any size disaster to begin cleanup and restoration to get you back in your home as soon as possible. SERVPRO of Elk Grove / Laguna Professionals are ready to help make it "Like it never even happened."

PREPARING FOR A FLOOD

Below is a list of recommended emergency supplies to be packed and ready to go in the event of an evacuation due to flooding:

Water—3+ day supply; two litres per person per day
Food—3+ day supply of non-perishable, easy-to-prepare food, protein/energy bars
Can opener
Flashlight
Battery-powered or hand-crank radio or a Weatheradio
Extra batteries
First Aid kit
Medications (7-day supply) and medical items (hearing aids with extra batteries, glasses, contact lenses, syringes, cane)
Multi-purpose tool
Sanitation/personal hygiene items
Copies/digital photos of personal documents (medication list and pertinent medical information, deed/lease to home, birth certificates, insurance policies)
Cell phone with chargers
Family and emergency contact information
Extra cash
Emergency blanket
Extra keys for your home and vehicles
Map(s) of the area
Baby supplies (bottles, formula, baby food, diapers)
Pet supplies (collar, leash, ID, food, carrier, bowl)
Tools/supplies for securing your home
Extra set of car keys and house keys
Extra clothing, hat and sturdy shoes
Rain gear
Insect repellent and sunscreen
Camera/cell phone for photos of damage Flooding can happen fast in many environments

Have a flooded basement or water damage? Call SERVPRO of Elk Grove / Laguna at 916-525-1241. We operate 24/7/365 - 24 hours a day 7 days a week 365 days a year.

Quickest Response There

11/19/2021 (Permalink)

Storm and flood damage require specialized restoration techniques and equipment. Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost. In order to protect your business, it can be valuable to know how to prevent moisture from entering your building and causing damage.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit, 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.

Water To See Or Not To See? Let's Get SERVPRO Help

11/19/2021 (Permalink)

There is no such thing as a small disaster - especially when a small leak now could blossom into a big claim later. Unseen water can soak through walls, seep through carpet and pool on subfloors, causing major problems over time. Instead of trusting untrained eyes, help ensure the value of your property by calling SERVPRO of Elk Grove / Laguna.

SERVPRO of Elk Grove / Laguna has the equipment, training and experience to find and dry unseen water before secondary damages set in.

Speed is Key!

Immediate response lessens damage:

Less Wood and Drywall Saturation
Less Delamination
Reduced Carpet and Furniture Stains
Fewer Warping Hardwood Floors
Less Mold/Mildew
Less Contents Damage

To help small leaks from becoming big problems call SERVPRO of Elk Grove / Laguna today at 916-525-1241.

24-Hour Emergency Service
Faster to Any Disaster
Highly Trained Water Restoration Technicians
A Trusted Leader in the Water Restoration Industry
Locally Owned and Operated
Advanced Water Inspection, Extraction, and Drying Equipment

Rain Clouds Go Away

11/4/2021 (Permalink)

Hopefully the rain will let up soon, but with lots of thunder clouds still in the forecast it is important to know how to remain safe during high waters. Especially during flash floods and warnings.

The National Weather Service has some good tips for staying safe during high water and flood conditions.

Flood and Flash Flood Safety Rules:

Heavy rain should be a signal to alerting you to the possibility of dangerous flood conditions.

During periods of heavy rains, stay away from flood prone areas such as stream beds, drainage ditches and culverts.

Move to higher ground if flooding threatens your area.

If you live or work in flood prone areas, remain alert during periods of heavy rain.

Be especially cautious at night as it is harder to recognize flood dangers.

Never drive your car into water of unknown depth. Most flash flood deaths occur when people drive their vehicles into flood waters. Remember: Turn Around Don't Drown!!

If your vehicle stalls, abandon it immediately and seek higher ground. Flood water may rise quickly, cover the vehicle and sweep it away.

Stay out of flooded areas. The water may still be rising and very swift. A rapidly flowing stream can sweep you off your feet and sweep your vehicle downstream.

Children are especially vulnerable and should not be allowed to play in or around flowing water.

Water can run off streets and parking lots rapidly, causing natural and man-made drainage systems to overflow with flood waters.

Flood waters can hide rocks, trees, trash and other debris that can be dangerous to someone in their path.

Water is a very powerful force and should NEVER be underestimated.

Flood Watch:

When conditions look favorable for flash flooding, the National Weather Service will issue a Flood Watch, highlighting flash flood potential in and around the specified area. A Watch usually encompasses several counties. This is the time to start thinking about your plan of action if water begins to rise or a flash flood warning is issued.

Flash Flood Warning:
issued for a smaller, more specific area. This is when you must act quickly as flash floods are an imminent threat to you and your family. You may only have seconds to move to higher ground.

How To Check Up On Storm Information

11/4/2021 (Permalink)

Technology is a great tool to help prepare for emergencies or disasters, as well as a great way to stay informed of the situation and in communication with others. The following tips will help you be ready in the event of an emergency or disaster.

Store Information Online

There are many online services that offer free ways to store different types of files, from photos to images of important documents. It’s a good idea to save an electronic version of insurance policies, identification documents, medical records, and even information on your pets.

Follow the News

Stay informed by following local news channels and community groups online. You can also sign up for free electronic alerts to the most up-to-date information in a disaster situation.

Mark Yourself Safe

There are many organizations and social media platforms that offer ways to list yourself as safe or find family and friends in situations where communication is difficult to establish. Facebook also has a feature called Safety Check that is activated after natural disasters or a crisis. You will receive a notification from Facebook if you’re located in the affected area at that time.

Keep in Touch

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

Charge Up

Keep a portable charger in your car and home in case of an emergency. You can also buy solar-powered chargers.

Get an Emergency READY Profile®

SERVPRO of Elk Grove / Laguna offers Emergency READY Profiles® (ERP) for free to help prepare your business for an emergency. By developing a SERVPRO of Elk Grove / Laguna Emergency READY Profile® for your business, you can minimize 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.

Contact us today at 916-525-1241for more information on developing an ERP for your business, and SERVPRO of Elk Grove / Laguna will be there to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

How To Check Areas Before A Storm

11/4/2021 (Permalink)

Check Your Garage Door for Weaknesses and Damage

The part of your home that can be most susceptible to damaging winds is your garage door. The best garage door to have is a heavy one. Some of them are even rated for hurricanes. With a heavy garage door, the high winds are less apt to blow or tear it off your home. You can also have your lightweight garage door reinforced by a garage door installer. Whether you have a heavy garage door or a lightweight one, the next important part of the door is how it is secured to your home. You want to check to make sure that the garage door rails are securely attached to the wall and ceiling of your home. If it is not solidly attached, high winds could possibly separate the rails from the home and blow the garage door down. The last part you want to check is the seal at the bottom of the door. Not only will a properly sealed door prevent water from blowing in but it will also keep the wind from shaking the garage door and damaging it.

Check the Integrity of Your Roof

You want to make sure that your roof shingles are not missing or damaged as this can lead to water seeping into your home and causing damage. Make sure that all of the shingles are properly secured and not loose. A loose shingle can be easily blown off the roof damaging and exposing other shingles to wind damage. If you have a satellite dish or air conditioning unit or any other type of equipment secured to the roof, you will want to check that they are solidly affixed to the roof. A satellite dish that blows off a roof can become a dangerous projectile that can damage windows, cars, and other homes. You will also want to make sure that the screws and bolts that are used to attach the equipment to the roof have some type of sealant around them to prevent water from leaking through your roof.

Check Your Windows and Doors

A common source of water damage from high winds and storms is through cracks and broken seals in windows and doors. You not only want to make sure that your windows and doors can close completely and lock but you also want to check the outside frames and edges for any cracks or broken seals. With windows, water can seep in around the wooden frames between the siding and the window. You can easily seal any cracks up with window & door caulking. You also want to check the door jamb for spaces or tears in the weather seal. Many doors have seals that can be replaced easily once they become torn and brittle. You can also buy similar seals for the bottoms of your windows to keep water from blowing under and into your home.

Check the Perimeter of Your Home for Loose Objects

With damaging winds, loose items in your yard, patio, deck, and gardens can quickly become flying objects that can break windows, rip apart siding, dent cars, tear up roofs, and cause all types of damage to you and your neighbors' properties. If you know a severe storm is coming, you want to make sure any table or chairs is secured to the ground and/or moved inside your garage. If you have a grill, move it into your garage or secure it to a deck railing or large tree. If you have any large trees, you will want to cut down any dead branches on a regular basis. Dead branches can easily break during a storm and cause damage to your home. To protect your cars during a severe storm, either move them into your garage or away from any large trees that could fall on them.

Checking Your Home For Rain Storm

10/26/2021 (Permalink)

Now that winter is here, it’s important to remember to check your house after a large storm. An over-abundance of rain water can overwhelm your home’s gutters and downspouts and saturate the soil around your foundation. An easy way to remember how to inspect your home is to “Start From the Bottom and Work Up.”

Start in the Basement – The first thing you should check after a heavy rainstorm is your basement or crawlspace. Make sure there is no standing water.
Pull Back Carpets, Rugs and Floors – If any of these items are wet, remove them from your floors immediately and begin to dry these areas as soon as possible.
Check Your Walls – Look for stains or discoloring on your walls, bubbling paint or peeling wallpaper. These are all signs of moisture leaking into areas where it shouldn’t be.
Inspect Your Attic – Make sure that your shingles are all secure and that there is no structural damage. Also check to be sure that your insulation is dry.
Check Gutters/Downspouts – Leaves and other debris can clog gutters and lead to drainage issues. Be sure to inspect these areas after a big storm to avoid this problem.

Your home should be a haven from a storm. Use these tips to make sure you keep the water outside and the warmth in.

If you do experience flooding or water where it shouldn’t be, call the experts at SERVPRO.

Which Phone Should You Use In An Emergency - Landline or Cell Phone?

6/2/2021 (Permalink)

In the event of an emergency, most people know that they should call 911. This patches us through to our local emergency responders who are dispatched to a specific location. But with the introduction of cell phones into our daily lives in the 1980’s, a crinkle was added to the 911 dispatch system.

Previously, all 911 calls coming from cell phones were automatically routed to the California Highway Patrol 911 dispatch centers, which overloaded the call centers and slowed down responses to potential victims. Now cell phones use either GPS or cell tower triangulation so that a dispatch center can be identified and the call is routed to the proper location.

The California Highway Patrol (CHP) does have jurisdiction over state freeways and handles emergency calls on these roadways. So some cell calls made from city streets that are near a freeway will be routed to the CHP.

One way to ensure that a 911 operator can pinpoint your location is to use your landline to make a 911 call whenever possible. A landline is plugged into a specific address, so an Emergency Response Team will know exactly where to respond.

However, if you find yourself in an emergency situation and you only have your cell phone, use it to call 911. Your call will be routed to an emergency response team who will send help to your location no matter how you place your call.

Remember, don't delay calling 911 in the event of an emergency. The professionals who are answering the phone will find you help whether you are calling on a landline or a cell phone. Reach out, call and stay safe.

ELK GROVE | CALIFORNIA | FIRE DAMAGE | WATER DAMAGE | RESTORATION

Ready for any Storm

5/22/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO specializes in storm and flood damage restoration. Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Sacramento and surrounding areas, 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 in our area that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Storm Preparedness

4/20/2021 (Permalink)

Keep Emergency Kits on hand

There are many things you can do to prepare for a bad storm or other emergency. One of these is to have a Home Emergency Kit/Car Emergency Kit on hand. These kits are usually a collection of basic household/automobile items that you will need in an emergency, whether it’s a bad storm, a fire, or any other unexpected emergency. Try to assemble your kit as soon as possible so that it will be ready in case of an emergency and don't forget to rotate new items in so when you need it there will not be expired or out-of-date items. You can also purchase premade kits from The Red Cross or other resources.

Have an emergency plan prepared

Depending on the severity of a storm or other event, it may take some time for help to arrive. Services like electricity and phone might be cut off for over a week. Emergency plans should be prepared with this information in mind. In addition to your emergency kit, which should include flashlights, batteries, and water, make an overall emergency plan with your family. Determine a place to meet if you need to leave your home in a hurry. Assign each member of your home with a task to make sure everyone gets out safely, including pets. SERVPRO offers an Emergency Readiness plan for businesses, but households should have a plan as well.

Know who to call to help with storm damage

Should your home experience significant damage during a storm, know who you can contact quickly to come out and assess and repair the damage. SERVPRO offers storm damage cleanup and restoration. With 24-hour emergency services offered, we’re “faster to any disaster”, with our highly trained technicians ready to help. Locally owned and operated, SERVPRO can help with storm, water, fire, or mold damage. Keep our information on hand as part of your emergency preparedness.

Tips for Checking Your Home After a Rain Storm

2/8/2021 (Permalink)

Now that winter is here, it’s important to remember to check your house after a large storm. An over-abundance of rain water can overwhelm your home’s gutters and downspouts and saturate the soil around your foundation. An easy way to remember how to inspect your home is to “Start From the Bottom and Work Up.”

Start in the Basement – The first thing you should check after a heavy rainstorm is your basement or crawlspace. Make sure there is no standing water.
Pull Back Carpets, Rugs and Floors – If any of these items are wet, remove them from your floors immediately and begin to dry these areas as soon as possible.
Check Your Walls – Look for stains or discoloring on your walls, bubbling paint or peeling wallpaper. These are all signs of moisture leaking into areas where it shouldn’t be.
Inspect Your Attic – Make sure that your shingles are all secure and that there is no structural damage. Also check to be sure that your insulation is dry.
Check Gutters/Downspouts – Leaves and other debris can clog gutters and lead to drainage issues. Be sure to inspect these areas after a big storm to avoid this problem.

Your home should be a haven from a storm. Use these tips to make sure you keep the water outside and the warmth in.

If you do experience flooding or water where it shouldn’t be, call the experts at SERVPRO.

Storm Water

11/19/2020 (Permalink)

Flooding in your home can cause many problems. That might sound like an understatement; however, many people do not understand what this amount of pooling water can do to their houses. First of all, flooding can come from groundwater that rises from a local river or stream. It can originate from a septic tank backup or through the less than adequate waterproofing in your basement walls. A leaking pipe or frozen pipe that bursts just about anywhere in your home and on any floor, can qualify as a flood because it causes many of the same problems. When standing water covers several rooms from a storm or malfunction, you need help.

When you see the standing water in the basement, crawlspace or lowest level of your house, whether you know the source or not, heavy pumping equipment is needed to mitigate the impending water damage.

The water begins by being absorbed into building materials and furniture such as wooden pieces and their fabrics. If the water has gotten into your basement from the first floor, it may have passed over and through a storage closet. Therefore, clothing may have been impacted as well as stored personal items, electronics, and photo albums. It has also gotten into and behind walls, under sinks and any ceilings and sub floorings

The increased moisture level can also create a perfect environment for molds to grow with 48-72 hours if the structure is not quickly dried. Drywall that has become soaked with this liquid can start the process of breaking down. This breakdown can be noticed as a bulging and crack as well as deteriorating and falling away from the attached studs. Electrical wiring may create a hazardous situation.

Prepare in Advance for Severe Weather

11/16/2020 (Permalink)

It is difficult to know if a storm that is forecasted to move through an area will be severe enough to cause damage before it arrives. Storms—as well as the damage they cause—can vary wildly, which is why we always recommend taking an approach grounded in advanced preparation to remain as safe as possible.

By taking steps to protect your home, you can be certain that no matter what type of storm moves through your area, you are as protected as possible.

Be as Protected as Possible From Storms

Prepare your home as much as possible. Though the nature of storm damage might seem erratic, by doing some preparation work in advance to protect your property, you can ensure you are taking the right steps to mitigate any possible damages. Trimming back any dead or overhanging trees is a great start, as is securing any objects that could possibly become loose during a storm. Many homeowners also have whole-home generators installed, allowing for utility usage if your power is out.

Create a family communications plan. When your family is all at home when severe weather is forecasted to come through the area, you can move as a group to your designated sheltering area and be certain you are all safe. However, if a storm catches one or more of your family members while they are out and about, it is important to have a communications plan so you can check in and be certain that everyone is safe.

Make sure your emergency kit is stocked. The best thing you can do to be prepared for any emergency is to have an emergency kit in your home, and storms are no exception. Your emergency kit can house everything your family might need, both during the storm and after the fact. Items like flashlights, batteries, first aid supplies, food and water are all good to keep on-hand just in case.

Consider getting a weather radio. Having cell phones has made it much easier to receive emergency weather alerts no matter where you are, but in case of severe weather, it is always good to have a backup such as a weather radio. Storms can cause power outages and even knock out cell towers, so having a weather radio that is either powered by replaceable batteries or a manual system is smart.

Storm Restoration and Mitigation

11/10/2020 (Permalink)

Storm and flood damage require specialized restoration techniques and equipment. Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost. In order to protect your business, it can be valuable to know how to prevent moisture from entering your building and causing damage.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit, 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.

The First 48 Hours – What Happens After a Storm When Water Damage Occurs?

11/4/2020 (Permalink)

If you have ever experienced flooding in your home because of a storm, then you likely know it doesn’t take long before things go wrong. This is why it is essential to take care of problems as quickly as possible. Remember, water is an unrelenting and destructive force that can cause serious damage in a very short period of time.

One of the first things you should do is to call a professional for help with water and flood restoration services. If you try to handle this on your own, you will find it takes up to five times as long, and you will likely be less than satisfied with the results you achieve. A professional can help clean up the mess that is present and restore the building to maintain health and safety while reducing the likelihood of permanent damage.

Structural Compromise and Water Saturation Issues

If your commercial building or home is suffering from standing water because of a flood after a storm, the water is already working on the hidden wood studs, subfloor and drywall. If wood is saturated in water, it will bulk up and expand beyond its capabilities. This results in cracking, stretching, and eventually, deformities. Usually, this occurs at the bottom part of the wood where stability is essential. The sooner you have all the excess water removed; the less damage will occur.

Sanitation and Health Issues

If your home or commercial building is flooded on the lowest floor of the basement, make sure you don’t contact the water – at all. If you are wondering what may be in the water within the initial 48 hours, consider the list below:

Paint and related substances
Cleaning agents and chemicals
Backed up sewage from the mainline
Food
Grime and dirt from the outside and that’s in the carpet and flooring
Dirty laundry water
Electrical or wiring components

Dealing with Insurance Issues

The initial 48 hours are the most important when dealing with your insurance agent. Before contacting your insurance agency, though, it is a good idea to contact a property restoration contractor.

A restoration and cleaning professional can help document where the water damage originated and can provide this information to you so you can present it to the insurance carrier. Once the carrier has all of the information, coverage can be determined based on your contract/policy. Your insurance adjuster is the only one who can determine coverage based on your contract/policy.

A restoration professional won’t play sides. What the Project Manager can do is to clarify that flooding, rather than pre-existing conditions, resulted in the damage. They can help you by providing professional consultations through the eyes of an experienced contractor.

How to Prevent Wind Damage

11/2/2020 (Permalink)

Check Your Garage Door for Weaknesses and Damage

The part of your home that can be most susceptible to damaging winds is your garage door. The best garage door to have is a heavy one. Some of them are even rated for hurricanes. With a heavy garage door, the high winds are less apt to blow or tear it off your home. You can also have your lightweight garage door reinforced by a garage door installer. Whether you have a heavy garage door or a lightweight one, the next important part of the door is how it is secured to your home. You want to check to make sure that the garage door rails are securely attached to the wall and ceiling of your home. If it is not solidly attached, high winds could possibly separate the rails from the home and blow the garage door down. The last part you want to check is the seal at the bottom of the door. Not only will a properly sealed door prevent water from blowing in but it will also keep the wind from shaking the garage door and damaging it.

Check the Integrity of Your Roof

You want to make sure that your roof shingles are not missing or damaged as this can lead to water seeping into your home and causing damage. Make sure that all of the shingles are properly secured and not loose. A loose shingle can be easily blown off the roof damaging and exposing other shingles to wind damage. If you have a satellite dish or air conditioning unit or any other type of equipment secured to the roof, you will want to check that they are solidly affixed to the roof. A satellite dish that blows off a roof can become a dangerous projectile that can damage windows, cars, and other homes. You will also want to make sure that the screws and bolts that are used to attach the equipment to the roof have some type of sealant around them to prevent water from leaking through your roof.

Check Your Windows and Doors

A common source of water damage from high winds and storms is through cracks and broken seals in windows and doors. You not only want to make sure that your windows and doors can close completely and lock but you also want to check the outside frames and edges for any cracks or broken seals. With windows, water can seep in around the wooden frames between the siding and the window. You can easily seal any cracks up with window & door caulking. You also want to check the door jamb for spaces or tears in the weather seal. Many doors have seals that can be replaced easily once they become torn and brittle. You can also buy similar seals for the bottoms of your windows to keep water from blowing under and into your home.

Check the Perimeter of Your Home for Loose Objects

With damaging winds, loose items in your yard, patio, deck, and gardens can quickly become flying objects that can break windows, rip apart siding, dent cars, tear up roofs, and cause all types of damage to you and your neighbors' properties. If you know a severe storm is coming, you want to make sure any table or chairs is secured to the ground and/or moved inside your garage. If you have a grill, move it into your garage or secure it to a deck railing or large tree. If you have any large trees, you will want to cut down any dead branches on a regular basis. Dead branches can easily break during a storm and cause damage to your home. To protect your cars during a severe storm, either move them into your garage or away from any large trees that could fall on them.

Prepare in Advance for Severe Weather

10/29/2020 (Permalink)

It is difficult to know if a storm that is forecasted to move through an area will be severe enough to cause damage before it arrives. Storms—as well as the damage they cause—can vary wildly, which is why we always recommend taking an approach grounded in advanced preparation to remain as safe as possible.

By taking steps to protect your home, you can be certain that no matter what type of storm moves through your area, you are as protected as possible.

Be as Protected as Possible From Storms

Prepare your home as much as possible. Though the nature of storm damage might seem erratic, by doing some preparation work in advance to protect your property, you can ensure you are taking the right steps to mitigate any possible damages. Trimming back any dead or overhanging trees is a great start, as is securing any objects that could possibly become loose during a storm. Many homeowners also have whole-home generators installed, allowing for utility usage if your power is out.

Create a family communications plan. When your family is all at home when severe weather is forecasted to come through the area, you can move as a group to your designated sheltering area and be certain you are all safe. However, if a storm catches one or more of your family members while they are out and about, it is important to have a communications plan so you can check in and be certain that everyone is safe.

Make sure your emergency kit is stocked. The best thing you can do to be prepared for any emergency is to have an emergency kit in your home, and storms are no exception. Your emergency kit can house everything your family might need, both during the storm and after the fact. Items like flashlights, batteries, first aid supplies, food and water are all good to keep on-hand just in case.

Consider getting a weather radio. Having cell phones has made it much easier to receive emergency weather alerts no matter where you are, but in case of severe weather, it is always good to have a backup such as a weather radio. Storms can cause power outages and even knock out cell towers, so having a weather radio that is either powered by replaceable batteries or a manual system is smart.

Preparing For a Flood

4/8/2020 (Permalink)

You may not have experienced a flood but that doesn't mean you won't in the future. When catastrophic water damage happens to you, SERVPRO of Elk Grove / Laguna can help. We can help you prepare ahead of time with an Emergency Ready Profile® (ERP) or respond to any size disaster to begin cleanup and restoration to get you back in your home as soon as possible. SERVPRO of Elk Grove / Laguna Professionals are ready to help make it "Like it never even happened."

PREPARING FOR A FLOOD

Below is a list of recommended emergency supplies to be packed and ready to go in the event of an evacuation due to flooding:

Water—3+ day supply; two litres per person per day
Food—3+ day supply of non-perishable, easy-to-prepare food, protein/energy bars
Can opener
Flashlight
Battery-powered or hand-crank radio or a Weatheradio
Extra batteries
First Aid kit
Medications (7-day supply) and medical items (hearing aids with extra batteries, glasses, contact lenses, syringes, cane)
Multi-purpose tool
Sanitation/personal hygiene items
Copies/digital photos of personal documents (medication list and pertinent medical information, deed/lease to home, birth certificates, insurance policies)
Cell phone with chargers
Family and emergency contact information
Extra cash
Emergency blanket
Extra keys for your home and vehicles
Map(s) of the area
Baby supplies (bottles, formula, baby food, diapers)
Pet supplies (collar, leash, ID, food, carrier, bowl)
Tools/supplies for securing your home
Extra set of car keys and house keys
Extra clothing, hat and sturdy shoes
Rain gear
Insect repellent and sunscreen
Camera/cell phone for photos of damage Flooding can happen fast in many environments

Have a flooded basement or water damage? Call SERVPRO of Elk Grove / Laguna at 916-525-1241. We operate 24/7/365 - 24 hours a day 7 days a week 365 days a year.

Little Jobs Can Get Big!

4/8/2020 (Permalink)

There is no such thing as a small disaster - especially when a small leak now could blossom into a big claim later. Unseen water can soak through walls, seep through carpet and pool on subfloors, causing major problems over time. Instead of trusting untrained eyes, help ensure the value of your property by calling SERVPRO of Elk Grove / Laguna.

SERVPRO of Elk Grove / Laguna has the equipment, training and experience to find and dry unseen water before secondary damages set in.

Speed is Key!

Immediate response lessens damage:

Less Wood and Drywall Saturation
Less Delamination
Reduced Carpet and Furniture Stains
Fewer Warping Hardwood Floors
Less Mold/Mildew
Less Contents Damage

To help small leaks from becoming big problems call SERVPRO of Elk Grove / Laguna today at 916-525-1241.

24-Hour Emergency Service
Faster to Any Disaster
Highly Trained Water Restoration Technicians
A Trusted Leader in the Water Restoration Industry
Locally Owned and Operated
Advanced Water Inspection, Extraction, and Drying Equipment

Be prepared with the help of Technology!

3/27/2020 (Permalink)

Technology is a great tool to help prepare for emergencies or disasters, as well as a great way to stay informed of the situation and in communication with others. The following tips will help you be ready in the event of an emergency or disaster.

Store Information Online

There are many online services that offer free ways to store different types of files, from photos to images of important documents. It’s a good idea to save an electronic version of insurance policies, identification documents, medical records, and even information on your pets.

Follow the News

Stay informed by following local news channels and community groups online. You can also sign up for free electronic alerts to the most up-to-date information in a disaster situation.

Mark Yourself Safe

There are many organizations and social media platforms that offer ways to list yourself as safe or find family and friends in situations where communication is difficult to establish. Facebook also has a feature called Safety Check that is activated after natural disasters or a crisis. You will receive a notification from Facebook if you’re located in the affected area at that time.

Keep in Touch

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

Charge Up

Keep a portable charger in your car and home in case of an emergency. You can also buy solar-powered chargers.

Get an Emergency READY Profile®

SERVPRO of Elk Grove / Laguna offers Emergency READY Profiles® (ERP) for free to help prepare your business for an emergency. By developing a SERVPRO of Elk Grove / Laguna Emergency READY Profile® for your business, you can minimize 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.

Contact us today at 916-525-1241for more information on developing an ERP for your business, and SERVPRO of Elk Grove / Laguna will be there to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

After The Storm

3/27/2020 (Permalink)

Storm damage can be a devastating and life altering experience. The first days proceeding a major storm can leave a homeowner overwhelmed and perplexed about what to do next. Some careful and calculated planning will help you and your family return to normal as soon as possible.

Safety Concerns

Regardless of if your home was flooded, hit by torrential wind or was the casualty of an electrical storm, the end result is still dangerous. Electricity can be conducted into standing water and mold will most certainly be an issue. Until a thorough evaluation by a qualified person can be conducted, it’s best to avoid the site altogether. If it all possible, consider staying with relatives or at a hotel or a shelter. Make sure to bring a weeks’ worth of clothing and supplies. Your home should be professionally inspected prior to returning.

Government assistance

Often times after a major storm, FEMA will make provisions for those affected by major storm damage. This includes help with housing, meals, home repairs and assistance with filing insurance claims. For more information contact your local FEMA representative.

Documentation

Make sure to document as much as possible about the storm and the damage to your home, especially if your home owners insurance policy is more specific about the type of damage it will cover. Take as many photos as possible and note any major issues such as mold, exposed power lines and crumbling walls. This will all come in handy when filing a claim with your insurance company.

Filing a claim

Contact your insurance provider as soon as possible. A claims representative should be assigned to you. Work with him to initiate repairs. This process can sometimes drag on for several months, but generally speaking, most policies will pay for the damage after your deductible has been paid. More often than not, homeowners policies do not cover flooding. If your home has been flooded, you need to contact your flood insurance provider. If you do not have flood insurance, you will have to pay for your repairs out of pocket. If you live in an area where flooding is a potential, consider purchasing a flood insurance policy.

Contact SERVPRO of Elk Grove / Laguna

As water and storm damage specialists, we have the experience and advanced training that enables us to restore your property quickly. We use scientific drying principles and provide validation and documentation that your property is dry and the job is complete. 916-525-1241

Be Prepared for Severe Weather Season

1/16/2020 (Permalink)

Build an emergency kit and make a family communications plan.
Identify a safe shelter location – a basement is best, followed by interior rooms on the lowest level of the building away from windows. Mobile homes are often unsafe in a tornado – identify a neighbor's house or public shelter where you can go if a tornado warning is issued.
Secure outdoor objects that could blow away or cause damage during a storm.
Unplug any electronic equipment before the storm arrives.
Sign up for reverse telephone alerts for your county, and don’t forget to include your cell phone.
Make sure you have sufficient insurance coverage – including flood insurance, which is separate from your homeowners or renter’s policy.
Photograph or take video footage of the contents in your home in case you need to file a claim after a disaster.
Store copies of your important documents in another location, such as a bank safe deposit box.

Rain Rain Go Away

11/13/2019 (Permalink)