7 Steps to Prepare Your Family for Natural Disasters and Storms

5/15/2024 (Permalink)

Natural disasters and severe storms can strike without warning, leaving families vulnerable and unprepared. Taking proactive steps to prepare your household for these emergencies can help minimize risks and ensure the safety of your loved ones. Here are seven ways to prepare your family for natural disasters and storms:

1. Develop a Family Emergency Plan

Develop a comprehensive emergency plan that outlines procedures for different types of disasters, including evacuation routes, designated meeting points, and communication methods. Ensure that every family member understands their role and knows what to do in the event of an emergency.

2. Assemble an Emergency Kit

Gather essential supplies and create an emergency kit that can sustain your family for at least three days. Include items such as non-perishable food, water, first aid supplies, flashlights, batteries, blankets, and important documents. Tailor your emergency kit to meet the specific needs of your family members, including infants, elderly individuals, and pets.

3. Stay Informed

Stay informed about potential hazards and weather alerts by monitoring local news, radio broadcasts, and weather apps. Sign up for emergency alerts and notifications from local authorities to receive timely information about approaching storms or disasters. Familiarize yourself with community emergency resources and evacuation routes.

4. Prepare Your Home

Take proactive measures to protect your home from potential damage caused by natural disasters and storms. Secure loose outdoor items, trim trees and branches, reinforce windows and doors, and consider installing storm shutters or impact-resistant glass. Keep gutters and drains clear to prevent water buildup.

5. Practice Drills

Regularly practice emergency drills with your family to ensure everyone knows what to do in various scenarios. Conduct fire drills, tornado drills, and evacuation drills to reinforce emergency procedures and promote readiness. Review your emergency plan and update it as needed based on feedback and changes in circumstances.

6. Designate Communication Channels

Establish communication channels with family members, neighbors, and emergency contacts to stay connected during emergencies. Designate an out-of-state contact person whom family members can call to check in and provide updates. Ensure that everyone has a list of important phone numbers and knows how to use communication devices.

7. Find Community Resources

Take advantage of community resources and programs designed to support disaster preparedness and response efforts. Attend preparedness workshops, participate in neighborhood watch programs, and collaborate with local emergency management agencies to stay informed and engaged.

By taking proactive steps to prepare your family for natural disasters and storms, you can minimize risks and enhance resilience in the face of adversity. Creating a comprehensive emergency plan, assembling an emergency kit, staying informed, fortifying your home, practicing emergency drills, establishing communication channels, and leveraging community resources are essential components of effective preparedness. Remember, being prepared can make all the difference in ensuring the safety and well-being of your family during challenging times.

The Importance of Cleaning Gutters and Drains Before a Storm Hits

1/8/2024 (Permalink)

When the wind starts howling and the thunder rolls, it's not just the force of nature that homeowners need to worry about.

When the wind starts howling and the thunder rolls, it's not just the force of nature that homeowners need to worry about. Neglected gutters and drains can wreak havoc during stormy weather, leading to significant property damage. Let's discuss why it's crucial to clean gutters and drains before a storm hits.

Prevention: The Best Cure

Your gutters and drains serve as the primary drainage system, guiding rainwater from your roof and away from your home’s foundation. When these become clogged with leaves, twigs, or other debris, things can go south, and fast:

Roof Damage: A clogged gutter can cause rainwater to back up and seep into your roof, leading to roof leaks and potential water damage in your attic or through your ceilings.

Foundation Problems: Blocked drains tend to overflow, causing water to pool around your house’s foundation. This could lead to structural weakness, cracks, or worse, basement flooding.

Invited Infestations: Standing water acts as a breeding ground for mosquitoes, mold, and other unwelcome guests, posing risks for your occupants.

A Simple Solution: Regular Cleanup

Regular gutter and drain cleaning can protect your home and save you from future storm damage and costly repairs. But how often should you clean them out?

The frequency depends on your local weather and vegetation - if you have many trees shedding leaves and debris, semi-annual cleaning is recommended. If you live in a relatively clear area, a yearly inspection and cleaning before storm season is typically enough.

A Helping Hand: SERVPRO®'s Services

While consistent gutter and drain cleaning can help prevent disaster, sometimes property damage is unavoidable in the face of a severe storm. That's when SERVPRO® of Worcester steps in. Our expert services extend beyond mere cleaning - we are your one-stop-problem-solvers for storm and water damage restoration. We employ advanced technology and proven techniques to restore your property, making it "Like it never even happened." 

By embracing the importance of routine gutter and drainage cleaning before storms hit, you can avert serious damage to your home and associated expenses. And remember, should the storm leave you in need of professional cleanup and restoration, our SERVPRO® team is here to make it "Like it never even happened." Stay prepared and take proactive measures - because when it comes to storm damage, prevention truly is the best cure.

National Lightning Safety Awareness Week this June 19-25th

5/31/2022 (Permalink)

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 508-757-7885

Celebrate National Lightning Safety Awareness Week this June 19-25th. It started back in 2001 to call attention to lightning being such an underrated killer. Since then, U.S. lightning fatalities have dropped from about 55 per year to less than 30. This reduction is largely due to greater awareness and people seeking proper safety when thunderstorms threaten. During National Lightning Safety Awareness Week this year, it is encouraged that you learn more about it and how to stay safe!

One solution to keep your home safe from lightning are lightning rods. Lightning rods (and the accompanying protection system) are designed to protect a house or building from a direct lightning strike and, in particular, a lightning-initiated fi re. It's important to note that lightning protection systems do not prevent lightning from striking a structure, but rather intercepts a lightning strike, providing a conductive path for the harmful electrical discharge to follow and disperse the energy safely into the ground. These components must be properly connected (bonded) to minimize the chances for any sparks or side flashes to occur. While lightning rods protect a structure from a direct lightning strike, a complete protection system is needed to help prevent harmful electrical surges and possible fi res caused by lightning entering a structure via wires and pipes. Lightning protection may also be needed for gas piping.

There are three main ways lightning can enter a structure: a direct strike, through wires or pipes that extend outside the structure or through the ground. Once in a structure, lightning can travel the electrical, phone, plumbing, and radio/television reception systems. Lightning can also travel through any metal wires or bars in concrete walls or flooring. Learn more about how you can protect your home or property today.

HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS WEEK May 1-7, 2022

4/29/2022 (Permalink)

HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS WEEK May 1-7, 2022

National Hurricane Preparedness Week is a nationwide eff ort during the fi rst week in May to raise awareness about being prepared for a hurricane to strike. This year it will be observed May 1-7, 2022.

One way you can observe this week is create an emergency preparedness plan. Your plan should answer questions about safe shelter, best evacuation routes, effective communication methods, etc. You can tailor your plan to the specific needs of your household and have regular meetings to review the plan with your loved ones.

Next, focus on where you live. Your home might be sturdy, but will it be sturdy enough to handle strong hurricane winds? Research hurricane building code specifications and make sure your home meets them. Also check to see if your home insurance company covers flooding.

Now is a great time to gather emergency supplies. From radios to flashlights to solar-powered chargers, you need to ensure you have everything you and your family need to survive. You should also restock on non-perishable food, water, and medicine to last for at least 3 days.

Hurricane preparedness is more important than ever before. Hurricanes have been getting worse due to climate change. Contact your local SERVPRO franchise for more readiness tips, including SERVPRO's Emergency READY Profile® (ERP). Having an ERP in place for your commercial facility can help minimize business interruption in the event of a disaster.

If your residential or commercial property suffers from Storm damage, call SERVPRO of Worcester to help make it "Like it never even happened."- 508-757-7885

To learn more about SERVPRO of Worcester’s Storm Damage Cleanup and Restoration Click Here.

5 Interesting Facts About Hurricanes

4/29/2022 (Permalink)

1. The term "hurricane" was derived from the Taino Native American word "hurucane," which means the "evil spirit wind."

2. The planet Jupiter has a hurricane that is bigger than the Earth itself and has been spinning for 300 years.

3. Every second, a hurricane releases the same amount of energy as ten atomic bombs.

4. At least 40% of the hurricanes that happen in the United States occur in Florida.

5. Hurricanes are only known as "hurricanes" in North America. They are called "typhoons" in Asia and "tropical cyclones" everywhere else in the world.

You Can be Ruined Or You Can be Ready With The Help of Technology

4/29/2022 (Permalink)

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

There are many places to store important information securely online. Services like Google Drive or Dropbox offer free ways to store different types of fi les, like medical records and identification documents.

Stay informed by following agencies such as FEMA, local news channels, and local government on Twitter for the most up-to-date information in a disaster situation. You can also alert first responders if a rescue is needed. The American Red Cross offers Safe & Well check-in sites 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 becomes activated after natural disasters or a crisis. You will receive a notification from Facebook directly if you're located in the affected area at that time.

Make sure your contact information is updated in your phone and e-mail for communicating with family, friends, business contacts and others whom you may need to get in contact with before, during, or after a disaster. Keep a portable charger in your car and home in case of an emergency. You may need to recharge this from time to time, but you can also buy solar-powered chargers as well. Put help in the palm of your hand by adding your local SERVPRO franchise to your personal and work phones. Your local franchise professionals are "Ready for whatever happens."

Flooding Can Cause Severe Damage to Your Residential and Commercial Properties, Are You Prepared?

3/29/2022 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Worcester to help make it "Like it never even happened."- 508-757-7885

Floods are the most common natural disaster in the United States, according to Ready.gov. Failing to evacuate a flooded area or entering flood waters can often lead to serious injury or possibly even death.

Floods cause billions of dollars worth of residential and commercial property damage each year. Since floods can damage any property in almost any area, it is crucial to learn how floods form, the various types of floods there are, and how they can affect your property.

Flash floods are fast-moving waters that sweep everything in their path. They are caused by heavy rainfall or rapid snow thaw. Flash floods usually cover a relatively small area and occur with little to no notice, generally less than six hours. The rapid water torrents can move large objects like cars, rocks, and trees.

Coastal floods are caused by strong winds or storms that move towards a coast during high tide. When powerful waves breach the coast's dune the area is usually flooded. Coastal regions with fewer defenses and lower elevations are the most affected. The best time to repair a breach is during low tide.

River floods are characterized by gradual riverbank overflows caused by extensive rainfall over an extended period of time. The areas covered by river floods depend on the size of the river and the amount of precipitation.

Urban floods occur when the drainage system in a city or town fails to absorb the water from heavy rain. The lack of natural drainage in an urban area can also contribute to flooding. Water flows out into the street, making driving very dangerous. Although water levels can be just a few inches deep, urban floods can cause significant structural damage.

Pluvial floods form in flat areas where the terrain cannot absorb the rainwater, causing puddles and ponds to form. Pluvial flooding is similar to urban flooding, but mainly in rural areas. The agricultural activities and properties in areas where pluvial floods have occurred can also be seriously affected.

Flooding can cause severe damage to residential and commercial properties, but there are many ways to prepare and prevent it!

If your residential or commercial property suffers from flood damage, call SERVPRO of Worcester to help make it "Like it never even happened."- 508-757-7885

To learn more about SERVPRO of Worcester’s Storm Damage Cleanup and Restoration Click Here.

FLOOD TIPS: Preparation Gives You Peace Of Mind

3/29/2022 (Permalink)

Sometimes floods develop slowly, and forecasters can anticipate where a flood will happen days or weeks before it occurs. However, flash floods can occur within minutes and sometimes without any sign of rain at all. Being prepared can save your life and give you peace of mind.

If you have access to sandbags or other materials, use them to protect your home from flood waters if you have sufficient time to do so. (Filling sandbags can time more time than you think!)

Have a professional install check-valves in your plumbing to prevent flood waters from backing up into the drains of your home. Make sure the sump pump is working and consider having a backup. Make sure your electric circuit breakers, or fuses, are clearly marked for each area of your home. Be safe!

Prepare Now for Spring Severe Weather

3/28/2022 (Permalink)

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 508-757-7885

Local SERVPRO disaster recovery professional alerts Worcester property owners that “billion-dollar storms” are becoming more frequent

Worcester, MA (Grassroots Newswire) March 2022- According to the National Weather Service, March marks the start of the spring severe weather season: “…three months of danger that can imperil the unprepared.1”

Data published by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reveals that severe weather events are becoming more frequent and more devastating2, said Donny McKendall a disaster recovery specialist with SERVPRO of Worcester. NOAA reports that the period from 1980-2021 saw an annual average of 7.4-billion-dollar weather and climate events (adjusted to today’s costs). When they looked at only the five most recent years (2017-2021), the annual average grew to 17.2 events. Last year alone (2021) delivered 20 “billion-dollar” weather or climate disaster events.

“It’s not unusual to see severe weather in the spring,” says McKendall. “Whenever you have warm, moist air colliding with cool, dry air, you have the conditions for creating a thunderstorm, along with the possibility of lightning strikes, floods, hail, high winds, rip currents, and even wildfires and tornadoes. The problem is, you can’t prevent these severe weather events and you can’t predict very far in advance when and where they will hit. The only sensible approach is to take steps in advance to protect your family and property, especially as these disasters become more common.”

McKendall urges Worcester area home and business owners to check out state and federal resources online for tips on planning and preparing for a severe weather emergency now, as the spring severe weather season arrives. One such resource is the National Center for Environmental Health of The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which offers suggestions for creating an emergency kit and preparing family members for severe weather emergencies at https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/features/springweather/index.html.

“Each year, SERVPRO professionals across the country respond to scenes of weather-related mayhem, helping families and business owners recover from flooding, fire, wind damage and more,” said McKendall “While we are standing by to help whenever we are needed, we hope that our neighbors in the Worcester area will heed this warning from the CDC: ‘…prepare for storms, floods, and tornadoes as if you know in advance they are coming, because in the spring, they very likely will.’”

SERVPRO specializes in disaster cleaning, restoration, and construction services, helping to remediate damage, making it “Like it never even happened,” for both commercial and residential customers.

For more information on SERVPRO of Worcester please call 508-757-7885

###

About SERVPRO

For more than 50 years, SERVPRO has been a trusted leader in fire and water cleanup and restoration services, construction, mold mitigation, and biohazard and pathogen remediation. SERVPRO’s professional services network of more than 1,900 individually owned and operated franchises spans the United States and Canada, responding to property damage emergencies large and small – from million-square-foot commercial facilities to individual homes. When disaster strikes, homeowners, business owners, and major insurance companies alike rely on SERVPRO to make it “Like it never even happened.”

1 https://toolkit.climate.gov/tool/national-weather-service-national-seasonal-safety-campaign

2 https://www.ncdc.noaa.gov/billions/overview

If Your Spencer, MA Property is Affected by Severe Weather Make Sure to Practice These Generator Safety Tips.

2/9/2022 (Permalink)

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 508-757-7885

When faced with severe weather, storms and flooding you can always count on the professionals at SERVPRO to talk you through taking the proper action until the PROs arrive to help.

If you have a generator on hand for power outages during severe weather, follow the safety tips below provided by the American Red Cross.

• Never use a generator, grill, camp stove, or other gasoline, propane, natural gas, or charcoal burning devices inside a home, garage, basement, crawl space, or any partially enclosed area.
  
  
• To avoid electrocution, keep the generator dry and do not use it in wet conditions. Operate it on a dry surface under an open canopylike structure, such as under a tarp held up on poles. Do not touch the generator with wet hands.
  
  
• Opening doors and windows or using fans will not prevent carbon monoxide (CO) buildup in the home. Although CO can’t be seen or smelled, it can rapidly lead to full incapacitation and death. Even if you cannot smell exhaust fumes, you may still be exposed to CO. If you start to feel sick, dizzy, or weak while using a generator, get to fresh air immediately.
  
  
• Install CO alarms in central locations on every level of your home or property and outside sleeping areas to provide early warnings.

Has your Spencer, MA  property been affected by storms and flooding?  Not to worry- we’ve got a PRO for that. SERVPRO Storm Damage Cleanup and Restoration

SERVPRO® of Worcester has experience restoring homes affected by storms and flooding. We can respond immediately with highly trained technicians who employ specialized equipment and techniques to restore your home or business back to pre-storm condition.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 508-757-7885

FEMA’s National Preparedness Month Spotlights the Importance of Understanding and Managing Risk

8/20/2021 (Permalink)

We're Here to Help when you need us. Call 508-757-7885

Local SERVPRO disaster mitigation specialist urges Worcester area residents to create a disaster management and recovery plan before the unexpected happens

Worcester, MA (Grassroots Newswire) August 18, 2021— September is National Preparedness Month, part of the ongoing “Ready”¹ initiative of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). According to FEMA’s “Are You Ready”² guide, the first step in effective disaster preparedness is to understand your specific risks—first by identifying the hazards that could possibly affect you and then by evaluating your actual vulnerability to those sources of danger.

“Once you understand your risks, you can effectively plan to mitigate them by decreasing your vulnerability and then manage their consequences quickly and effectively if the worst does happen,” says disaster mitigation specialist Donny McKendall of SERVPRO^® of Worcester. “Of course, individual home or business owners’ risks vary depending on their location, but regardless of where you live or work, FEMA’s guide has some basic steps that everyone can take to prepare for the unexpected.”

1. Create a family communication and shelter
2. Sign up for emergency alerts, including FEMA alerts³.
3. Build your savings if possible and keep a small emergency fund of cash on-hand at
4. Create an Emergency Financial First Aid Kit⁴: Gather and safeguard critical documents like deeds, medical information, insurance policies, and a list of your household belongings.
5. Create an emergency kit⁵ with basic tools and enough food and water to last 72 hours and keep the contents fresh and up to date.

In addition to the planning tools and checklists provided by FEMA, businesses like SERVPRO that specialize in disaster mitigation and restoration offer free tools that make disaster recovery easier. The free SERVPRO READY app⁶ allows home and business owners to store essential contact and property information electronically where it can be accessed in seconds with a mobile device. Local business owners who designate SERVPRO of Worcester as their disaster mitigation and restoration provider benefit from a no-cost assessment of their facility along with help completing a comprehensive Emergency READY Profile^® (ERP) to be stored in the READY app.

“The uncomfortable truth is that no amount of preparedness will prevent disasters from striking, but preparedness can help disaster victims survive and then recover,” says McKendall. “When disaster strikes, sometimes it’s difficult to even know where to start picking up the pieces. Having critical documents and details at your fingertips helps, but so does having access to professionals who know

how to help you return to normal, "Like it never even happened." The disaster remediation specialists at SERVPRO of Worcester know what to do when you don’t know which way to turn. We’re here  to help when you need us.”

For more information on SERVPRO^® and the SERVPRO Emergency READY Program, please visit https://ready.SERVPRO.com.

¹ 2021 Preparedness Calendar | Ready.gov

² https://www.ready.gov/sites/default/files/2021-03/are-you-ready-guide.pdf

³ https://www.fema.gov/about/news-multimedia/mobile-app-text-messages

⁴ https://www.ready.gov/sites/default/files/2020-03/ready_emergency-financial-first-aid-toolkit.pdf

⁵ https://www.ready.gov/kit

⁶ https://ready.SERVPRO.com/home/mobileapp

About SERVPRO

For more than 50 years, SERVPRO® has been a trusted leader in fire and water cleanup and restoration services, mold mitigation, and biohazard and pathogen remediation. SERVPRO’s professional services network of more than 1,900 individually owned and operated franchises spans the United States and Canada, responding to property damage emergencies large and small – from million-square-foot commercial facilities to individual homes. When disaster strikes, homeowners, business owners, and major insurance companies alike rely on SERVPRO to make it "Like it never even happened."

Thunder, Lightning & Severe Weather - Be Prepared Before, During & After The Storm.

7/13/2021 (Permalink)

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today (508) 757-7885

Thunderstorms can be quite destructive, producing lightning, hail, high wind, flash floods or even tornadoes.

What do we know about thunderstorms? A thunderstorm is classified as a severe if it contains large (at least one inch) hail and/or winds of at least 58 MPH. If you can hear thunder, you are close enough to be affected by lightning-every thunderstorm produces lightning. Lightning can strike up to 10 miles ahead of or following a storm. Thunderstorms can occur by themselves, in clusters, or in lines. The typical thunderstorm is 15 miles in diameter and produces heavy rain for 30 minutes to an hour. The heavy rain associated with thunderstorms can cause flash floods. Their high winds can blow down trees, damage homes and knock out utility poles and wires causing wide spread power outages.

Why Prepare? Thunderstorms occur in most places, year-round and at any hour. That being said, Thunderstorms are VERY common in the spring and summer months throughout New England. Mass.gov sites, 10-30 days of thunderstorms each year. These storms can be extremely destructive and dangerous. This is why it is best to be prepared.

We’ve broken down the following preparedness tips into before, during and after thunderstorms.

Preparing BEFORE Thunderstorms

• Be informed. Learn about your local community’s emergency warning system for severe thunderstorms
• Discuss thunderstorm safety and lightning safety with the members of your household
• Create an emergency plan so that you and your family know what to do, where to go and what you will need to protect yourselves from the effects of a thunderstorm.
• Protect your animals by ensuring that any outside buildings that house them are protected in the same way as your home
• Put together an emergency preparedness kit
• If you have a basement or lower level of your property prone to flooding, buy and install sump pumps with back-up power.
• If you already have a sump pump, check regularly to make sure it is functioning properly.
• Clear clogged rain gutters to allow water to flow away from your home
• Cut down or trim trees that may be in danger of falling on your home.
• Review your insurance policies to see if you have adequate coverage. If you’re not sure you have enough coverage, talk to your agent or company.

Staying Safe DURING Thunderstorms & Severe Weather

• Pay attention to alerts & warnings.
• Watch for signs of a storm, like darkening skies, lightning flashes or increasing wind.
• If you can hear thunder, you are close enough to be in danger from lightning. If thunder roars, go indoors!
• Avoid using electronic devices connected to an electrical outlet.
• Avoid running water- Do not take a bath, shower or use plumbing.
• Postpone outdoor activities if thunderstorms are likely to occur.
• If you are outside and cannot reach a safe building, avoid high ground; water; tall, isolated trees; and metal objects. Picnic shelters, dugouts and sheds are NOT safe.
• Do not drive through flooded roadways. Just six inches of fast-moving water can knock you down, and one foot of moving water can sweep your vehicle away. Turn Around. Don’t Drown! 

What To Do AFTER the Storm

• Monitor media for updated emergency information and public safety announcements.
• Stay away from downed power lines and report them immediately.
• Keep close watch on your animals. Keep them under your direct control.

• Check your home for damage:
• If you believe there is a gas leak, go outdoors immediately, and do not turn electrical switches or appliances on or off.
• If your home or property is damaged, take photos or videos to document your damage, and contact your insurance company.
• If your power is out, report power outage to utility  company.

• Remember “Turn Around, Don’t Drown!” Don’t drive through flooded roads

Who should you call if your property is affected by storms and flooding? SERVPRO Storm Damage Cleanup and Restoration

SERVPRO® of Worcester has experience restoring homes affected by storms and flooding. We can respond immediately with highly trained technicians who employ specialized equipment and techniques to restore your home or business back to pre-storm condition.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today (508) 757-7885  

Resources:

• Red Cross
  https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/thunderstorm.html
• Ready.gov
  https://www.ready.gov/thunderstorms-lightning
• Mass.gov
  https://www.mass.gov/info-details/thunderstorm-and-lightning-safety-tips

Spring Can Deliver Severe Weather Surprises

4/6/2021 (Permalink)

Spring weather can deliver severe weather surprises, it's important to plan in advanced.

Local SERVPRO property damage restoration specialist offers property owners tips about possible hazards and advance planning tools

Spring brings warmer weather, longer days, and a much anticipated break from winter. It also brings a very real threat of severe weather, according to disaster recovery specialist, Donny McKendall of SERVPRO of Worcester. “The frequent change in cold and warm temperatures in spring creates an elevated risk for severe weather across the country,” said McKendall . “Ranging from flooding rain in the Northwest to thunderstorms and tornadoes in the Southeast, spring weather can be unpredictable at best and downright dangerous at worst.” 

“When you give some thought to the types of hazards a spring storm could produce, you can begin to plan for the safety of your family as well as your home or business,” said McKendall. Depending on where you live, here are some of the ways a spring storm might damage your home or business:

• Water damage caused by flooding from melting snow, foundation washouts from coastal storms, frozen pipes that burst, sump pumps that fail during power outages, torrential downpours, or faulty air conditioning condensation lines during a heat wave.
• Fire damage caused by use of alternate emergency heat sources, sprinkler systems that fail due to freezing pipes, downed power lines, or environmental conditions leading to structure fires.
• Wind damage caused by fallen trees and limbs, damage to siding and roofs, and downed power lines. 

 “Of course, most of these hazards don’t happen in isolation,” said McKendall. “For example, tornadoes and violent thunderstorms put property owners at risk for water, fire, and wind damage. It’s important to understand which hazards might affect your property and your family, and then take the proper steps to prepare.” 

McKendall suggests investigating resources available online from the U.S. Government’s “Ready” program at https://www.ready.gov/severe-weather and other free tools, like the SERVPRO READY app at https://ready.SERVPRO.com/home/mobileapp. Home and business owners can use this app to store essential contact and property information electronically, and then access it in seconds with a mobile device. Local business owners who also designate SERVPRO of Worcester as their disaster mitigation and restoration provider gain peace of mind from a no-cost assessment of their facility conducted by SERVPRO professionals, who then assist the owner in completing a comprehensive Emergency READY Profile® (ERP) to be stored in the READY app. 

“Because it’s difficult to predict when severe weather will strike – or what form it may take – it’s important to plan in advance,” said McKendall.

No Matter What March Has to Offer, SERVPRO® Has Your Storm Damage Needs Covered.

3/16/2021 (Permalink)

We’ll make it “Like it never even happened,” and we’re just a phone call away, (508) 757-7885

It’s March in New England. The weather can best be described as… unpredictable. We could be in for the ice and snow of a winter storm, the flooding that could come from a quick thaw or the wind and rain spring storms can deliver. No matter what March has to offer, SERVPRO® has your storm damage needs covered.

You’ll Be In Good Hands Every Step of The Way

Sustaining storm damage to your home or commercial business can be a complicated endeavor. Not only is structural damage a possibility, but water and electrical damage could occur as well. Working with the right cleanup and restoration company can make all the difference in your recovery process. As storm repercussions continue to get more severe and complex, knowing you are in good hands every step of the way is invaluable?which is why you count on SERVPRO®.

Ready For Any Size Disaster

SERVPRO has been helping communities recover from disasters, both large and small, for many years and we are proud of the reputation we have built as an industry leader. We have the expandable resources to handle any size disaster. No matter how much of an area is impacted by a water, fire, or storm event, you can count on SERVPRO to help get your property back to its preloss condition. Because we have a national network of franchises, we can call for backup when needed to ensure we can scale our resources with exceptional service.

24/7/365- We’re Here to Answer Your Call

When you are dealing with storm, flood, and water damage, immediate action is crucial. 

We will respond to you quickly anytime day or night, 365 days a year. We understand how devastating it is to discover damage to your property, which is why we guarantee a prompt response no matter when you need us. From the moment we receive your call we begin assembling a team and dispatching them to you as quickly as possible.

SERVPRO® a Trusted Leader in the Water Restoration Industry

When you find yourself faced with storm, flood, and water damage you want the team you can trust. We have with the expertise, resources and equipment to handle the job. Our team of highly-trained professionals will work quickly to get your property back to normal. At SERVPRO we work to make it "Like it never even happened."

It’s Not Luck! It’s Being Prepared.

3/8/2021 (Permalink)

We’re Here to Help if you do find yourself in an unlucky situation, We’ll make it “Like it never even happened.” 508-757-7885

This March Ready.gov  is running the “It’s Not Luck” campaign. The campaign uses Saint Patrick’s Day inspired graphics and themes to  remind us all, No one should rely on luck when it comes to being prepared for disasters and emergencies. Don’t leave disaster prep to chance.
We’ll be sharing content and social media posts throughout the month to show our support.

Ready.Gov Suggests These First Steps To Being Prepared:

• Know your risk for the area where you live and work.
• Make a plan to lessen the impact of those risks.
• Build a kit to be ready for disasters and emergencies.

Luckily (See what we did there?)  Ready.gov also shared these great tips:

• Sign up for emergency alerts to receive life-saving information from your state and local municipality. www.ready.gov/alerts
• Let your go kit be your lucky charm. Make a go bag today. www.ready.gov/kit
• An insurance policy really can be your lucky charm. Get financially prepared www.ready.gov/financial-preparedness
• During an extended power outage, ATMs and credit card machines may not work. Don’t rely on luck. Include cash in your emergency supply kit. www.ready.gov/financial-preparedness
• Get prepared by having an emergency supply kit already stored. www.ready.gov/kit 
• Learn how to shut off the utilities at home, including water, electricity, and gas.
• Plan how you will leave and where you will go if you are advised to evacuate.
• Remember your pets in your plans! www.ready.gov/evacuation 
• Snap photos of important documents and save them online or in a secure place you can access during an emergency.
• Set up group text lists so you can communicate with friends and family at the same time during emergencies.
• Have external power sources available to charge phones and other devices in case of a power outage.
• Create a budget that includes an emergency savings fund. www.ready.gov/financial-preparedness

We’re Here to Help if you do find yourself in an unlucky situation, We’ll make it “Like it never even happened,” and we’re just a phone call away, 508-757-7885

ARE YOU WINTER WEATHER READY?

12/8/2020 (Permalink)

When winter weather strike, SERVPRO of Worcester Strikes back!

Are you prepared for the upcoming cold weather? Cold weather can have a huge impact on your home or business if you are not ready for it. From heavy rain and freezing temperatures to damaging winds, sleet, or snow, all can cause serious and costly property damage. While you cannot control the weather, you can take steps to be prepared and help take the sting out of winter weather. To help prevent costly damages due to weather, consider taking the following precautions to protect your property before colder weather hits.

• Check your business property for downed tree limbs and branches. Wind, heavy rain, ice, and snow can cause branches to fall, which could cause damage to the property and potentially cause personal injuries.
   
• Roofs, water pipes, and gutters should all be inspected to help ensure they are in proper order. Gutter downspouts should be directed away from your building. Clear gutters of debris that may have gathered during the fall. Leaves and other obstructions can cause a damming effect, which can lead to roof damage and interior water problems.

• Inspect property, especially walkways and parking lots, for proper drainage to alleviate a potential flood hazard.
  
  
• 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.

• Protect water pipes from freezing by simply allowing water to drip when temperatures dip below freezing. If pipes are under a cabinet, leave the cabinet doors open, allowing warm inside air to circulate around the pipes. If the building has outdoor faucets, consider shutting water off at the main valve in the basement or crawl space. Once the valve is off, open the outdoor faucet to ensure it drains, preventing any remaining water from freezing in the pipe.

• Ask your local SERVPRO® franchise professionals about completing an Emergency READY Profile® (ERP) for your business. The ERP is a no cost assessment of your facility and provides you with a plan to get back in business faster following a disaster. Preparation is the key to making it through any size disaster, whether it is a small water leak, a large fire, or an area flood. The best time to plan for such events is not when the event happens, but well beforehand. No one ever plans on a disaster, but now, you can plan and prepare for it.

When winter weather strikes, SERVPRO of Worcester Strikes back! We’ll make it “Like it never even happened,” and we’re just a phone call away, 508-365-6434.

You Can't Know When Disaster Will Strike But You Can Be Prepared.

8/17/2020 (Permalink)

Storms, floods, fires, the unknown- you can’t know when disaster will strike but you can be prepared. Ready.gov suggest having a plan and a disaster supply kit.

A disaster supplies kit is a collection of basic items your household may need in the event of an emergency.

Ready.Gov Suggest the Following Steps for Preparing Your Kit:

Make sure your emergency kit is stocked with the items on the checklist below. Most of the items are inexpensive and easy to find and any one of them could save your life. Headed to the store? Download a printable version to take with you. Once you take a look at the basic items consider what unique needs your family might have, such as supplies for pets or seniors.

Basic Disaster Kit

To assemble your kit store items in airtight plastic bags and put your entire disaster supplies kit in one or two easy-to-carry containers such as plastic bins or a duffel bag.

A basic emergency supply kit could include the following recommended items:

• Water (one gallon per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation)
• Food (at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food)
• Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert
• Flashlight
• First aid kit
• Extra batteries
• Matches in a waterproof container
• Whistle (to signal for help)
• Dust mask (to help filter contaminated air)
• Plastic sheeting and duct tape (to shelter in place)
• Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties (for personal sanitation)
• Wrench or pliers (to turn off utilities)
• Manual can opener (for food)
• Local maps
• Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery
• Download the Recommended Supplies List (PDF)

Since Spring of 2020, the CDC has recommended people include additional items in their kits to help prevent the spread of coronavirus or other viruses and the flu.

• Cloth face coverings (for everyone ages 2 and above), soap, hand sanitizer, disinfecting wipes to disinfect surfaces

Additional Emergency Supplies To Consider

Consider adding the following items to your emergency supply kit based on your individual needs:

• Prescription medications
• Non-prescription medications such as pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medication, antacids or laxatives
• Prescription eyeglasses and contact lens solution
• Infant formula, bottles, diapers, wipes and diaper rash cream
• Pet food and extra water for your pet
• Cash or traveler's checks
• Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records saved electronically or in a waterproof, portable container
• Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person
• Complete change of clothing appropriate for your climate and sturdy shoes
• Fire extinguisher
• Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items
• Mess kits, paper cups, plates, paper towels and plastic utensils
• Paper and pencil
• Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children

For More Details and information Visit: https://www.ready.gov

What You Need to Know About “HURRICANE HAZARDS”

8/4/2020 (Permalink)

Hurricane season has already begun and several named storms have developed in the Atlantic, Caribbean or Gulf of Mexico. For the Atlantic, the season begins June 1 and runs through November 30. On average, there are 12 tropical storms that develop, with an average of six becoming hurricanes, according to the National Weather Service.

Hurricanes can be life-threatening as well as cause serious property damage. The National Weather Service lists the following as potential “hurricane hazards.”

Storm surge is the abnormal rise of water generated by a storm’s winds. This hazard is historically the leading cause of hurricane related deaths in the United States. Storm surge and large battering waves can result in large loss of life and cause massive destruction along the coast. Storm surge can travel several miles inland, especially along bays, rivers and estuaries.

Flooding from heavy rains is the second leading cause of fatalities from landfalling tropical cyclones. Widespread torrential rains associated with these storms often cause flooding hundreds of miles inland. This flooding can persist for several days after a storm has dissipated.

Winds from a hurricane can destroy buildings and manufactured homes. Signs, roofing material and other items left outside can become flying missiles during hurricanes.

Tornadoes can accompany landfalling tropical cyclones. These tornadoes typically occur in rain bands well away from the center of the storm.

Dangerous waves produced by a tropical cyclone’s strong winds can pose a significant hazard to coastal residents and mariners. These waves can cause deadly rip currents, significant beach erosion and damage to structures along the coastline, even when the storm is more than a 1,000 miles offshore.

Preparation is the best protection against the dangers of a hurricane. Plan an evacuation route and your emergency plan, take inventory of your property and take steps to protect your home or business.

For Hurricane Safety Tips section of MEMA’s website at https://www.mass.gov/service-details/hurricane-safety-tips.

For more information on recovering from water damage caused by weather-related disasters, contact SERVPRO® of Worcester today.
We’re Here to Help 24/7 – 508-757-7885

Are You Hurricane Ready? 8 Hurricane Preparedness Tips

8/4/2020 (Permalink)

Hurricanes are massive storm systems that form over warm ocean waters and move toward land. They can happen along any U.S. coast or territory in the Atlantic or Pacific. Threats from hurricanes include: powerful winds, heavy rainfall, storm surges, coastal and inland flooding, rip currents, tornadoes, and landslides. The Atlantic hurricane season runs June 1 to November 30.

Are You Ready? Here Are 8 Hurricane Preparedness Tips

1. Make an Emergency Plan
   Make sure everyone in your household knows and understands your hurricane plan. Discuss the latest Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidance on Coronavirus (COVID-19)and how it may affect your hurricane planning.
2. Gather Supplies
   Make sure your household is well stocked with supplies. Include medication, disinfectant supplies, cloth face coverings, pet supplies.
3. Be Ready to Evacuate
   You may have to evacuate quickly due to a hurricane. Learn your evacuation routes, practice with household, pets, and identify where you will stay. 
4. Make Sure Your Insurance is Up to Date
   Make sure your insurance policies and personal documents like ID are up to date. Make copies and keep them in a secure password protected digital space.
5. Prepare Your Home
   Declutter drains and gutters, bring in outside furniture, consider hurricane shutters.
6. Get Tech Ready Keep your cell phone charged when you know a hurricane is in the forecast and purchase backup charging devices to power electronics.
7. Be A Good Neighbor Check with neighbors, senior adults, or those who may need additional help securing hurricane plans to see how you can be of assistance to others
8. Prepare your Business Make sure your business has a continuity plan to continue operating when disaster strikes.
   
   Once you have an emergency contingency plan in place. Think about a plan to get back you’re your buildings following a disaster. 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. SERVPRO^® is a leader in water and fire damage response and can help you quickly get your property back in working order.
   Ready to Get Started? Call for a No Cost Assessment. 508-757-7885

Additional Hurricane Preparedness Information:

• https://www.ready.gov/sites/default/files/2020-03/fema_how-to-prepare-for-hurricane.pdf
• https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/prepare/hazards.php
• https://www.weather.gov/wrn/hurricane-preparedness
• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=umolcYUCuow&feature=youtu.be

Source Material

• https://www.ready.gov/hurricanes

Prepare & Take Precautions MA Hurricane Preparedness Week 2020

7/16/2020 (Permalink)

“Governor Charlie Baker has proclaimed July 12 - 18, 2020, to be Hurricane Preparedness Week in an effort to emphasize both the Commonwealth’s potential vulnerability to tropical storms and hurricanes, and the importance of preparing for their impacts. “

MA Residents and visitors are encouraged to use this week to prepare for hurricanes, tropical storms and other emergencies.

This week serves reminder of the Commonwealth’s potential vulnerability to tropical storms and hurricanes, the importance of preparing for their impact. This includes taking necessary precautions during the COVID-19 public health emergency.

MEMA advises residents to take some simple steps to prepare for a potential weather emergency.

1. Make an emergency plan that takes in account how your family would communicate, evacuate and shelter in place. Ensure the needs of all family members, including seniors, children, those with special needs and pets are accounted for. See details on how to make a family emergency plan.
2. Build or customize an emergency kit that will sustain your household for three to five days without power. Make sure it includes face coverings or masks, disinfectants, hand sanitizer and other cleaning supplies that you may need in an emergency. See more about building an emergency kit.
3. Stay informed by having multiple methods for receiving emergency alerts. See more about emergency alerts.
4. Know your evacuation zone and learn in you live or work in a hurricane or evacuation zone.

For Source Material and Further Details Visit:

https://www.mass.gov/news/hurricane-preparedness-week-reminds-residents-to-prepare-take-precautions

For more information, visit the Hurricane Safety Tips section of MEMA’s website at https://www.mass.gov/service-details/hurricane-safety-tips.

Is Your Home Storm Ready For The Next Big Storm?

4/20/2020 (Permalink)

Here are Five Tips to help prepare your home and reduce the potential for damage caused by severe storms.

TIP ONE: Regularly Clean your gutters, down pipes and drains to prevent blockages

Always remember to keep your gutters and down pipes clear. Blockage can cause water to overflow under the eaves, leading to water damage. Clear leaves and debris from your roof as these will make their way into the gutters in heavy rain. Keep the drains around your property clear. This helps surface water move away and prevents water from pooling and entering your property.

TIP TWO: Check & Maintain Your Roof.

Your roof should be checked every year and after major events. Look for signs of damage. Fix any cracked, broken or displaced tiles. Buildup of dirt should be removed to prevent blocking the drainage channels on the underside of tiles. Damaged roof sheeting may need to be patched or replaced. Don’t forget to check inside your roof space. Light shining through may indicate that your roof is damaged.

*Working on a roof can be dangerous so we recommend you contact an expert tradesperson if you need help  to check or maintain your roof.

TIP THREE: Clean & tend your yard and balcony. Make sure, to secure or store items that could be blown away in strong winds 

Strong winds can pick up even large items such as outdoor furniture, trampolines and roofing iron causing damage to windows, roofs and cars. Try to keep items around your property tidy. When there is severe weather in the forecast, you may need to secure or put away things away.

TIP FOUR: Trim trees and branches that could fall on your home or property.

Remember to park your car away from trees if severe weather is predicted.

When planting trees and shrubs, consider the mature size of the tree and use this to guide the planting location.

*We suggest working with an expert tradesperson- contact a qualified and insured arborist or tree surgeon when necessary, speak with a trusted nursery or garden center for guidance on plant selection and planting techniques.

TIP FIVE: Check your insurance policy, be sure it current and adequate.

Make sure that your insurance policy provides coverage for the types of events specific to your location, these may include: storm water runoff, flash floods and damage to properties by trees (to name a few). What type of coverage do you have? Building insurance, contents insurance – what do you have, what do you need? Also, consider what level of coverage are you are insured for, is it enough to recover from major damage?

Remember- if your home does suffer storm damage, SERVPRO of Worcester is 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 Worcester 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 – 508-757-7885

Winter Storms, Frozen Pipes & Ice Dams- Oh My!

2/7/2020 (Permalink)

This can be a stressful time of year- winter weather can bring a lot more issues than just slippery roads, snow days and a sidewalk to shovel.

If you live where temperatures sink below freezing, you are also at risk for frozen pipes, ice dams and puffbacks- all of which can create major disasters in your home or property. 

Suggestions on 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 the faucets run through unheated or uninsulated areas of your home.
• Consider shutting off outdoor faucets. Find the shut-off valve in the basement or crawl space and tun it to “off”.
• Ensure gutters are clean and secure. Leaves and debris accumulate, causing damming in gutters, which could lead to roof problems and water damage.
• Proper maintenance of your furnace can help reduce the risk of puffbacks.

When winter weather strike, SERVPRO of Worcester Strikes back! We’ll make it “Like it never even happened,” and we’re just a phone call away, 508-757-7885.

Storms Can Bring Many Different Challenges To A Homeowner, Be Prepared

8/6/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Worcester Works Fast to Remove Storm Water to Preserve the Integrity of Your Property

The word flood causes people to think of thunderstorms and bursting levees. Most of the restoration costs come from smaller water sources, however. 

Much of the flood damage that SERVPRO finds withinand nearly everywhere else results from failing plumbing and broken appliances. In winter months, poorly insulated pipes can freeze and burst, flooding basements, attics and other areas of the home.

Year-round, lines get blocked and rupture, old plumbing corrodes and fails as do clothing and dishwashers. While all this may seem like a small amount, a burst water pipe can send 160 gallons across a kitchen floor per hour. If this happens when a family is out for the weekend, they can come back to find over 5,700 gallons (36 hours) has flooded their entire home. Typically, this is clean water, which is not the case with intruding ground water from a storm.

To put things right; our response team starts with two tasks: an inspection to determine the extent of the flooding while technicians set up the first pump to begin removing the flood water. A quick check with a tape measure tells us the depth; if it is over two inches, we start a commercial grade pump to drain the water.

As this happens, a team inspector checks the other areas of the house to see how much water is present and if there is ancillary damage such as water in the electrical outlets. It is not a regular occurrence, but it can happen in basements or split-level homes. More common are flooded carpets, walls, ceilings, and floors with possible damage to other structural property. 

Once we finish with the pumps, the next steps are to remove water trapped in the carpets and floors and to dry or replace damaged drywall. We use extractor wands to draw water out of carpets and wood floors without damaging the nape or surface. In most cases, we throw out the carpet pad, as it is too expensive to dry out something that cheaply can be replaced. Once again, if surging water from the exterior transported debris, the contaminated padding must be tossed.

To prevent removing drywall, we try to dry it in place if it is not too soaked. SERVPRO's  IICRC trained technicians set up dehumidifiers to remove moisture from the air, install exhaust fans to pull damp air out of the affected rooms, and place air movers along the affected panels to force heated, dry air across the surfaces to carefully lower the moisture content. We may also drill small holes into the baseboard area and close to the ceiling joints to increase air flow and the rate of evaporation. This further mitigates the loss.

These are just a few of the actions we take to return your home to its normal, pre-flood state, "Like it never even happened."

Click Here to Learn More about our Storm Damage Cleanup and Restoration Services  

If you need our help to dry out your home and property, call SERVPRO of Worcester today at (508) 757-7885. We are here and ready for you.

Storm Damage Can Be Devastating to your Cherry Valley Home Protect it Today

7/31/2019 (Permalink)

Storms and Appliances Can Flood Your Home, Be Ready to Call SERVPRO of Worcester

Finding a home that fits your family can be tough; when you finally make a purchase and start to settle in, you want to protect your investment properly. It takes some investigation to discover each and every problem that may exist in your home; you might even need some help. 
  
After you spend the time searching for the perfect home in Cherry Valley, flood damage is the last thing you want. However, every home is susceptible to flooding, even those placed nowhere near a natural water source. Your home appliances can easily turn against you, leaving you and your family wondering what comes next.  
  
To avoid issues related to major appliances found in most modern homes today, you want to have your home inspected by a trusted restoration company that specializes in recovering from flood damage. A company, like SERVPRO, can help you discover hidden problems by performing a full inspection and give you a better chance to avoid situations that commonly occur in your area.  
  
Many homeowners install dishwashers next to their sink in the kitchen, resulting in a series of connectors, feedlines, drain hoses, and other fittings that require periodic maintenance. Something similar happens when you install a refrigerator that has an ice maker, a washing machine, or even your water heater.  
  
All of these appliances can lead to significant flooding issues that cause severe damage in your home. Something as small as a 1/8th-inch tear or crack can release hundreds of gallons of water per day. Think about how fast things can get out of hand when the leak continues undiscovered. 
  
At SERVPRO we help customers become ready for whatever might happen on their property. You receive a no-cost assessment that contributes to providing solutions for issues found in your home. We discuss each problem individually, explain available services in detail, and consider every option available to limit losses you may experience. 
  
When you have a pre-existing relationship with SERVPRO and disaster strikes, we already have details about your property which give us the ability to respond quicker, providing you with the support you deserve during an emergency.  We can offer you our ERP, Emergency READY Profile Plan that suggests preventative measures for natural disasters, contact info for your, and us as your storm restoration specialist. All in a mobile app. We have on staff experts. 
  
Make the decision to plan ahead, contact SERVPRO of Worcester for additional information and get started protecting your family home for whatever comes. (508) 757-7885  Visit the Area: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leicester,_Massachusetts

Trained Professionals to Clean up After a Storm

5/22/2019 (Permalink)

When your home or commercial property has water damage from storms, SERVPRO of Worcester has the expertise, experience, and equipment to properly restore your property. At SERVPRO of Worcester we have the experience plus the scientific approach to water removal and cleanup to properly dry and restore your property. Every water damage is different and needs to be addressed, however, the general process is the same.

• Step 1 - Emergency Contact
• Step 2 - Inspection and Water Damage Assessment
• Step 3 - Water Removal / Water Extraction
• Step 4 - Drying and Dehumidification
• Step 5 - Cleaning and Sanitizing
• Step 6 – Restoration

At SERVPRO of Worcester we take every job very seriously. Restoration is the process of making your home or business back to pre-water condition. We understand that a water loss is stressful. Our technicians will treat you and your family with great care and empathy. We are always here to help, please contact us at 508-757-8779 for any questions or to schedule a free estimate.

Disaster Assistance Always Available from SERVPRO of Worcester

4/29/2019 (Permalink)

Preparation is Key to Surviving Flooding and Subsequent Flood Damage

When you live in an area historically plagued by flooding, discovering ways to protect your home and family becomes vital. We can help you prepare your home against flooding, beginning with the information you find below. 
 
Start by understanding that flooding can occur anywhere, even your Cherry Valley home is susceptible to flood damage. Creating a preparedness plan to get your family to safety and taking the proper precautions to prevent damages to your home is smart. 
 
Helping by giving advice and preparing homeowners for battle against flood damage causing devastation in their homes is what SERVPRO does. We begin protecting your home by providing you with a ready plan app available online or on your mobile device. 
 
This app allows you to share information about your home's location, entry options and any specifics concerning current circumstances, including requesting services to your home during an emergency. It can also help you keep track of all of your items affected by a disaster. 
 
Flood waters can advance quickly, which is why it is so important to plan ahead for these types of events. If your basement or crawl spaces are prone to excessive water, there are services available to help you eliminate these issues before they become a problem. 
 
You can have new drains and sump pumps installed to help with water removal during an emergency. Have professional technicians, like those offered at SERVPRO, perform proper grading in your yard to help keep water away from your building. 
 
We can also offer crawl space encapsulation services to help improve your home's indoor environment and prevent damages to the structure of your building. However, these things need to be thought of before emergency strikes and are just as important as a well-planned evacuation. 
 
Contacting your local SERVPRO office can help give you ideas of how to plan ahead and provide you with the services you deserve to save one of the biggest investments of your life, your home. Just remember that remaining safe during an emergency is of primary importance. 
 
Therefore, practice an escape plan with the members of your family, prepare a survival kit ahead of time that includes clothing, food, and safety items that would be enough to cover a few days at least. 
 
Make sure to give SERVPRO of Worcester a call for help with surviving your next disaster. (508) 757-7885

Floods in Our Worcester Community

4/11/2019 (Permalink)

Drying Equipment placed for storm water damage to concrete flooring.

Flooding can cause catastrophic damage, however, SERVPRO of Worcester can help restore residential and commercial properties. Often water damage restoration can be complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable staff. SERVPRO of  Worcester can restore a small water cleanup or a large scale situation. SERVPRO will work quickly to access the situation and make it “Like it never even happened.” At SERVPRO we understand that you need to have your home or business fully functioning. When an emergency situation arises, give us a call and we will be there fast with all the help you need.

SERVPRO of Worcester specializes in restoration and cleanup of residential and commercial property after a water damage event. Please call us at 508-757-7885 and we will be happy to answer any questions.

Worcester in it's Flood Season is no Match for SERVPRO

3/20/2019 (Permalink)

One of the most common natural disaster in the United States is flooding. There is always the potential for flooding no matter where you live. Massachusetts is no exception. Pictured is a Worcester street that was flooded by a powerful storm. Many people were caught by surprise and their homes and businesses were severely damaged by the powerful flood waters.  

By knowing that flooding can be devastating and potentially dangerous, it is important to always be prepared. Being prepared will help you keep your employees and family safe. By taking the proper precautions to prevent damages to your home and business is always a good idea. At SERVPRO of South Worcester we can help you be prepared by providing your business with an Emergency Ready Profile.

According to industry research, as many as 50% of businesses may never open after a disaster. By having a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile will help minimize business interruption. The profile has critical information that will speed up mitigation services. There is no cost and you are provided a detailed profile document that will help your business recover quickly.

By contacting SERVPRO they can help give you ideas of how to plan ahead and provide you with the services you deserve to save your business. Remember that remaining safe during an emergency is of primary importance. SERVPRO has over 40 years of experience dealing with man-made and natural disasters.

Please call SERVPRO of Worcester at (508) 757-7885 for more information on our Emergency Ready Profile.

Are you prepared for Flash Floods!

2/11/2019 (Permalink)

Prepare Now for Future Flood Damage

Heavy rainstorms are not unusual during the traditional hurricane season in recent years in the Worcester area, and area businesses anticipate possible damage from flash floods. Large amounts of water collecting in retail spaces, production floors, offices or other commercial buildings bring your business to a halt if you have no plan. Professional assistance to deal with the issues relating to flooding is crucial for full restoration to occur. 

Severe weather pounds the Worcester area, causing flood damage to downtown businesses including your concert venue. Electronic equipment, stage areas, patron seating, and food service areas are all involved. Your concert calendar is full, and both performers and fan rely upon you and your staff providing a safe and dry area for scheduled performances. The ability of our team to respond quickly with powerful water removal and state of the art drying equipment is the key to a fast turnaround. The show goes on with our help.

Our crews have familiarity with significant seasonal flooding activity in our area, and encourage businesses concerned about the yearly chaos flooding brings to work with us to develop a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile and Plan (ERP) as a flooding safeguard and preparation tool. Prior to any catastrophe, contact us and we send an experienced manager to your business for a no-obligation assessment of your space. Creating your ERP is as simple as opening our mobile app and providing a thorough list of details.

The information you provide allows us to focus our response to your current crisis. You appoint key staff who can direct the restoration effort if you are unavailable. SERVPRO of Worcester asks you to give us a blueprint of your layout, including utility shut-offs, so we can jump right in to begin work. You devise and share with us a list of your priorities when flooding occurs, including the names and contact information for experts who can assist in the safe recovery of the specialized equipment used in the music business. Your Emergency Ready Profile and Plan makes a significant difference in the success of our restoration efforts.

Decide to address the potential for seasonal flooding by partnering with SERVPRO of Worcester. Call to set up an assessment at (508) 757-7885, and we welcome the chance to craft a personalized ERP for your business.

Visit http://www.worcesterma.gov/ for more information about Worcester.

Are you Ready for Hurricane Season, Worcester?

6/26/2018 (Permalink)

Hurricane season has officially begun and in full effect. For the Atlantic, the season begins June 1 and runs through November 30. The Eastern Pacific hurricane season began in mid-May and also ends November 30. Hurricanes can be life-threatening as well as cause serious property threatening hazards such as flooding, storm surge, high winds and tornadoes and of course hurricanes. Preparation is the best protection against the dangers of a hurricane. Plan an escape route, take inventory of your property, and take steps to protect your home or business for example boarding up you’re windows. Another tip is to consider hurricane straps for your homes roof, they will ensure that your roof is stable onto the rest of your home. For more tips and preparation tips, visit the Ready campaign website at www.ready.gov/hurricanes. Do not think it can't happen to us! 

Protect Your Cherry Valley Home against Storm Damage Today

6/26/2018 (Permalink)

Storms and Appliances Can Flood Your Home, Be Ready to Call SERVPRO

Finding a home that fits your family can be tough; when you finally make a purchase and start to settle in, you want to protect your investment properly. It takes some investigation to discover each and every problem that may exist in your home; you might even need some help. 
  
After you spend the time searching for the perfect home in Cherry Valley, flood damage is the last thing you want. However, every home is susceptible to flooding, even those placed nowhere near a natural water source. Your home appliances can easily turn against you, leaving you and your family wondering what comes next.  
  
To avoid issues related to major appliances found in most modern homes today, you want to have your home inspected by a trusted restoration company that specializes in recovering from flood damage. A company, like SERVPRO, can help you discover hidden problems by performing a full inspection and give you a better chance to avoid situations that commonly occur in your area.  
  
Many homeowners install dishwashers next to their sink in the kitchen, resulting in a series of connectors, feedlines, drain hoses, and other fittings that require periodic maintenance. Something similar happens when you install a refrigerator that has an ice maker, a washing machine, or even your water heater.  
  
All of these appliances can lead to significant flooding issues that cause severe damage in your home. Something as small as a 1/8th-inch tear or crack can release hundreds of gallons of water per day. Think about how fast things can get out of hand when the leak continues undiscovered. 
  
At SERVPRO we help customers become ready for whatever might happen on their property. You receive a no-cost assessment that contributes to providing solutions for issues found in your home. We discuss each problem individually, explain available services in detail, and consider every option available to limit losses you may experience. 
  
When you have a pre-existing relationship with SERVPRO and disaster strikes, we already have details about your property which give us the ability to respond quicker, providing you with the support you deserve during an emergency.  We can offer you our ERP, Emergency READY Profile Plan that suggests preventative measures for natural disasters, contact info for your, and us as your storm restoration specialist. All in a moble app. We have on staff experts. 
  
Make the decision to plan ahead, contact SERVPRO of South Worcester for additional information and get started protecting your family home for whatever comes. (508) 757-7885  Visit the Area: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leicester,_Massachusetts

Facts about Flooding

6/4/2018 (Permalink)

Floods rank as one of the most common and 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. 

Just because you haven't experienced a flood in the past, doesn't mean you won't in the future. In fact, 20% of all claims paid by the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) were for policies in low-risk communities. On average, floods cost $3 billion in annual losses in the United States. Commercial flood claims average more than $75,000. 

According to the American Red Cross (ARC), floods cause more damage in the U.S. every year than any other weather-related disaster. The ARC offers the following flood safety tips. 

• Stay away from floodwaters. If you come up on a flowing stream where water is above your ankles, stop, turn around and go another way. Six inches of swiftly moving water can sweep you off of your feet. 
• If you approach a flooded road while driving, turn around and go another way. If you are caught on a flooded road and waters are rising rapidly around you, get out of the car quickly and move to higher ground. Most cars can be swept away by less than two feet of moving water.
• Keep children out of the water. They are curious and often lack judgment about running water or contaminated water. Keep your pets out of the water too.

If a flood does strike your home or business, contact SERVPRO of South Worcester. Even minor floods have the potential to cause major damage to a structure when not treated quickly and properly, and the cleanup is often an overwhelming task. SERVPRO of South Worcester is prepared to handle any sized disaster. The sooner work begins; the sooner order can be restored. 

when fire and water take control of your life, SERVPRO of South Worcester will help you take it back. 

Storms, Floods, Hurricanes no match for us!

5/31/2018 (Permalink)

Hurricane season is officially underway. For the Atlantic, the season begins June 1st through November 30th. The Eastern Pacific hurricane season began in mid-May and also ends November 30th. Hurricanes can be life threatening, and can cause some serious property damage, and threatening hazardous situations such as flooding, storm surge, high winds and tornadoes - even here in our home town of Worcester!

Preparation is the best protection in fighting against the dangers of a hurricane. plan and escape route, take inventory of your property and take steps to protect your home or business, for instance if you live on a flat level property use sand bags to keep water from traveling inside your property. Also you can protect your windows with plywood boards, or storm shutters. For more help on preparing your home or business from our next storm, visit the ready campaign website at www.ready.gov/hurricanes .  

Flood Damage Protection for Our Own Worcester Colleges and Universities!

5/16/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO can Help Get Things Under Control Whether the Flood Damage is Minor of Major

Many colleges and university's in our area offer dormitory living to their students. Plumbing problems, whether or not traceable to the inhabitants of the dorms, threaten living conditions for high numbers of students. Managing and recovering from the effects of clogged toilets or overflowing showers is easier with a professional restoration company like SERVPRO on duty.
 
Maybe just the result of an accident or mistake, or sometimes a prank with malicious intent, flood damage in a Worcester college or university is a serious problem for officials. Students and their families pay significant amounts of money for dormitory accommodations, and there are few alternatives for other living options if flooding makes rooms uninhabitable. We have the staff and the equipment to restore water damaged common areas and individual rooms quickly, limiting the disruption for the students and protecting the institution.
 
Flooding from toilets and showers contains contaminants, and the professional technicians we employ at SERVPRO know how to manage gray and black water. We extract the tainted water and dispose of it according to local regulations. Once the water is gone, we sanitize the affected areas with appropriate disinfectants. Drying with air movers and dehumidifiers completes the process and contents of the dorms remained unaffected.
 
Any contents in rooms or lounges that are porous risk permanent contamination. SERVPRO technicians evaluate beds, furnishings, and floor coverings that were saturated with the flow of water to determine whether they are safe to use or should be discarded. Machine washable and dryable items stay, but immersed articles that cannot be laundered or dry cleaned must go.
 
Our staff investigates where water migrated after the flood, searching for hidden areas that could be breeding grounds for molds. Walls painted with oil-based enamel clean up and disinfect well, but soaked drywall and insulation indicate even some structural elements need to be removed and replaced because there is no sure way to be certain they can be made safe. Tile or linoleum flooring responds well to sanitization, but carpeting, especially padding, often requires replacement. SERVPRO consults with insurers and the school officials to make the best decisions to restore the dorm without risking the students’ health and well-being.
 
Consider SERVPRO of South Worcester a teammate when errant plumbing flooding damages student living quarters. Call (508) 757-7885 day or night and welcome our flood damage team within hours.

Flood Damage Results in Damage to Your Home and Possessions

10/12/2016 (Permalink)

Rely on SERVPRO To Extract Flood Waters and Mitigate Damage

According to FloodSmart.gov, all 50 states have experienced natural flood events in the last five years, and flooding is ranked as the number one natural disaster in the U.S. As for in-home flooding caused by plumbing failure, water damage, and freezing pipes make up over 21% of all insurance claims.

Flood damage in Worcester is always a possibility. However, if you have experienced this type of event, you do not have to spend any extra time worrying about this traumatic event. Call the experts. Our SERVPRO professionals are incredibly understanding and sensitive to your experience. Flooding requires the expertise, equipment, and knowledge that we possess.
 
Act Quickly After Flood Damage
Once water has flooded your home, be it from natural to failure infrastructure factors, it is crucial that you immediately call on SERVPRO professionals to deal with the aftermath. Fast action is imperative because flood damage is unlike small leaks. Flood damage has the capability of ruining nearly everything it touches in your home. This includes furniture, electronics, appliances, cabinetry, carpeting/flooring, and even your walls.
 
Flood Water Damage Within the First Hour
The types of flood damage that occur in the first hour of a water event typically cannot be prevented. The water intrusion is both massive and rapid. Whether from a storm surge, rising groundwater, or a burst water main, the initial water attack can cause significant loss. Your home's structural integrity, carpet staining from furniture, curtains, and other items that bleed color can all be damaged requiring rapid drying for a chance at restoration. SERVPRO has the certified technicians to deal with wetted documents, books, photographs, and other sensitive material.
 
Flood Water Damage Within the First Day
A lot of destruction can occur if your flooding event goes a single day without attention or remediation. After the initial damage of the flooding and exposure to the water, there are additional types of damage that can occur within the first 24 hours. While not all are irreversible, they can certainly create serious problems and lasting issues if water extraction is not performed.
 
Flood damage within the first 4 hours will harm furniture/furniture legs; warping and cupping of hardwood flooring, the ruin of drywall, waterlogged carpets and padding and appliances. Typically, groundwater contains contaminants such as fecal matter, pathogens, plant and soil debris and possible combustible materials and chemicals that will require specific PPE (personal protection equipment) for safe removal.

Contact Us
Do not let prolonged flooding exposure ruin your home. Contact SERVPRO of South Worcester at (508) 757-7885. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

When Storms or Floods hit Worcester SERVPRO is ready!

6/20/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Worcester 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 Worcester, 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 508-757-7885

Be Storm Smart - Be Storm Ready

5/3/2016 (Permalink)

Severe weather can happen any time, anywhere. Each year, Americans cope with an average of the following intense storms*:

• 10,000 severe thunderstorms
• 5,000 floods or flash floods
• 1,000 tornadoes
• 2 landfalling deadly hurricanes

Approximately 98 percent of all presidentially declared disasters are weather-related, leading to around 500 deaths per year and nearly $15 billion in damage.* Knowing your risk of severe weather, taking action and being an example are just a few steps you can take to be better prepared to save your life and assist in saving the lives of others.

Know Your Risk. The first step to becoming weather-ready is to understand the type of hazardous weather that can aff ect where you live and work, and how the weather could impact you, your business and your family. Check the weather forecast regularly, obtain a NOAA Weather Radio, and learn about Wireless Emergency Alerts. Severe weather comes in many forms and your shelter plan should include all types of local hazards.

Take Action. Take the next step in severe weather preparedness by creating a communications plan for your home and business. Put together or purchase an emergency kit. Keep important papers and valuables in a safe place.

Be an Example. Once you have taken action to prepare for severe weather, share your story with co-workers and family and friends on Facebook or Twitter. Your preparedness story will inspire others to do the same.

*Facts provided by http://www.stormready.noaa.gov.

SERVPRO Storm Teams Are Ready!

7/15/2014 (Permalink)

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.

Learn More About Wireless Emergency Alerts

5/29/2014 (Permalink)

Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) are emergency messages sent by authorized government-alerting authorities through your mobile carrier. Government partners include local and state public safety agencies, FEMA, the FCC, the Department of Homeland Security, and the National Weather Service.

Alerts received at the right time can help keep you safe during an emergency. With WEA, alerts can be sent to your mobile device when you may be in harm's way, without need to download an app or subscribe to a service. WEA may be used to share:

•  Extreme weather warnings.
•  Local emergencies requiring evacuation or immediate action.
•  AMBER Alerts.
•  Presidential Alerts during a national emergency.

A WEA will look like a text message. The WEA message will typically show the type and time of the alert, any action you should take, and the agency issuing the alert. The message will be no more than 90 characters.

Visit www.ctia.org/wea to learn more about Wireless Emergency Alerts, including how to determine if your mobile device is WEAcapable.

Some Myths About Lightning

5/22/2014 (Permalink)

According to the United States Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), an average of 60 people are killed each year by lightning, and hundreds more are severely injured. Many times, these injuries are due to misinformation around the seriousness of thunderstorms and lightning. Here are a few of the most common myths about lightning.

Myth: If it is not raining, there is no danger from lightning.

Fact: Lightning often strikes outside of heavy rain and may occur up to 10 miles away from rainfall. 

Myth: If you are in a house, you are 100% safe from lightning.

Fact: A house is a safe place to be during a thunderstorm as long as you avoid anything that conducts electricity, including corded phones, electrical appliances, wires, TV cables, computers, plumbing, metal doors and windows.

Myth: Lightning never strikes the same place twice.

Fact: Lightning often strikes the same place repeatedly. The Empire State Building is hit nearly 100 times a year.

Myth: A lightning victim is electrified. If you touch them, you’ll be electrocuted.

Fact: The human body does not store electricity. It is perfectly safe to touch a lightning victim to give them first aid. Call 9-1-1 and begin CPR immediately. 

Myth: If outside in a thunderstorm, seek shelter under a tree to stay dry. 

Fact: Being underneath a tree is the second leading cause of lightning casualties.

Facts provided by fema.gov

Tools To Help You Be Prepared.

5/12/2014 (Permalink)

One of the best precautions you can take is to purchase a good quality weather radio. A weather radio is designed to alert you to dangerous weather situations, such as an approaching tornado. It allows you to be warned ahead of approaching storms providing you time to seek shelter. A weather radio is the most reliable source for weather alerts. 

Weather radios have made many advancements over the years and are very affordable. Most basic weather radios average around $30 and can be programmed to only alert you for the weather alerts you choose.

When shopping for a weather radio, look for the following key features.

• Reviewable alerts (you can scroll through alerts and turn off the siren for alerts you do not wish to hear).
• Specific Area Message Encoding (SAME) alert programming (alerts when specific counties are threatened, ensuring you only receive alerts for your county).
• Ease of programming. 

If you need help programming your weather radio, you can always contact your local National Weather Service Office or for additional information, including county codes for your state, visit the NOAA Weather Radio website at www.nws.noaa.gov/nwr

Be Storm Smart. Be Storm Ready.

5/7/2014 (Permalink)

Severe weather can happen any time, anywhere. Being prepared to act quickly can be critical to staying safe during a weather event. 

In 2013, there were seven weather and climate disaster events with losses exceeding $1 billion each across the United States.* These events included five severe weather and tornado events, a major flood event, and the western drought/heat wave. Overall, these events killed 109 people and had significant economic effects on the areas impacted.

Knowing your risk of severe weather, taking action and being an example are just a few steps you can take to be better prepared to save your life and assist in saving the lives of others.

Know Your Risk

The first step to becoming weather-ready is to understand the type of hazardous weather that can affect where you live and work, and how the weather could impact you, your business and your family. Check the weather forecast regularly, obtain a NOAA Weather Radio, and learn about Wireless Emergency Alerts (see right inset). Severe weather comes in many forms and your shelter plan should include all types of local hazards.

Take Action 

Take the next step in severe weather preparedness by creating a communications plan for your home and business. Put together or purchase an emergency kit. Keep important papers and valuables in a safe place. 

Be an Example

Once you have taken action to prepare for severe weather, share your story with co-workers and family and friends on Facebook or Twitter. Your preparedness story will inspire others to do the same.

*information courtosy of ready.gov