Restoring Your Home after Storm Damage

1/20/2023 (Permalink)

If you experience storm damage to your Warwick home or business, give SERVPRO of East Greenwich/Warwick/Cranston a call today.

Storm damage is never fun, but it can be especially frustrating if you have limited experience with home repair. In order to understand how to restore your home after storm damage, you need to know what kind of damage has been done and how much work it might take to fix that damage. If you're not sure where to start or what needs repairing first, here are some tips:

Assessing the Damage

Assessing damage to your home after a storm can be a daunting task, but it is important to do so as soon as possible to prevent further damage and begin the process of making repairs. Here are some steps you can take to assess your home for damage: 

• Check for structural damage: Look for any cracks or damage to the foundation, walls, or roof of your home. 
• Inspect the roof: Look for any missing or damaged shingles, as well as any damage to the flashing or gutters.
• Check for water damage: Look for any water stains on the walls, ceilings, and floors. 
• Check for damage to your windows and doors: Look for any cracked or broken glass, as well as any damage to the frames or seals. 
• Inspect your appliances: Check your appliances such as the refrigerator, washing machine and dryer, dishwasher, and HVAC system to ensure they have not been damaged by the storm.
• Take photos or video of the damages: This can help when you are submitting an insurance claim.
• Inspect your belongings: Take pictures of the damage. 

It's important to remember that it is always best to consult with a professional if you notice significant damage or if you are unsure about how to make repairs. 

Cleaning Up After a Flood

One of the first steps in restoring your home after storm damage is to remove all the standing water, wet furniture, appliances, and carpets. If your home has sustained damage from a flood, it's important to take action quickly to prevent further damage by removing wet items. You should also remove any wet insulation, drywall, and wood that was exposed during the flooding. 

Repairing or Replacing

If the damage is severe, you may need to replace the whole thing. If your home has been damaged by flooding, it's important to consult a professional before making any decisions about how to proceed. However, if you live in an area prone to stormy weather, there are resources available that can help you repair and restore your home after a storm.

Check with insurance companies about what type of coverage might be available for home repairs associated with storms. Your insurance company may provide money for repairing damage caused by environmental hazards such as flooding and storms.

Call Storm Cleanup Experts For Assistance

If you experience storm damage to your Warwick home or business, give SERVPRO of East Greenwich/Warwick/Cranston a call today. We will be out quickly to fix the problem and restore your structure and belongings to their preloss conditions.

4 Ways to Prevent Damage During a Flood

7/29/2022 (Permalink)

Use sandbags near doors and windows to keep moisture at bay.

Four Strategies to Avoid Damage During a Flood

Storms and bad weather in Cowesett, RI, can cause flooding which can damage your home. This type of damage can be severe, so it is best to prepare as much as you can. The following are a few things that you can do to help minimize the impact of this water on your house.

1. Inspect Your Home
If your house is already damaged, this can make any storm damage you experience even worse. Cracks in the exterior of the building and deteriorated door and window frames can allow moisture inside. If this happens, you could be dealing with mold growth and rotting materials later on. Perform a thorough inspection if you are expecting a storm, and make any necessary repairs.

2. Move Important Items
Flood damage will affect your belongings as well as the structure of your building. Absorbent materials and electronics can be permanently damaged if water enters your home. If your house has multiple levels, move anything you can to a higher floor. Otherwise, place important items on shelves and in airtight containers, if possible.

3. Clean Drains and Gutters
Leaves and debris can clog your gutters, making it more difficult for water to drain properly during a storm. This can cause the water to back up and cause damage to the walls and roof of the building. These should be cleaned regularly and kept clear.

4. Use Sandbags
While you may not be able to keep it from flooding, you can reduce the amount of water that enters your house. Use sandbags near doors and windows to keep moisture at bay. These will absorb water and help keep it from filling your home.
Using these tips can help you limit the impact that flooding has on your home. However, there may still be some damage. If this is the case, a clean up and restoration service can help. They can remove water from the building and perform repairs on your house and belongings.

3 Reasons To Consider Storm Shutters

6/20/2022 (Permalink)

Storm shutters are an investment.

Storm Shutters: 3 Reasons to Consider

It doesn't matter if high winds are a regular concern, or if you simply want to add some curb appeal to your East Greenwich, RI, home: Storm shutters are an investment. Here are three reasons to consider this home upgrade.

1. They Protect Your Home
The main reason to add shutters to your home is typically security-related. Preinstalled and easy-to-activate window coverings are one of the best ways to defend your house from hail, flying debris and any of the myriad concerns that can arise — in some cases literally — during severe or unusual weather.
Even if you're confident that there's enough plywood out in the shed to board up your windows when a storm's on its way, professionally engineered and installed window coverings are the safest and most convenient choice. They're built to take a beating and be swiftly deployed.

2. They Protect Your Home From More Than High Winds
Many exterior window coverings are a theft deterrent if for no other reason than that they safeguard the most fragile and burglar-friendly areas of your house: the windows.
The level of practical security they provide depends on the type of shutter you install and the materials used. Aluminum is a popular choice, for example, and many homeowners choose to put them in a position not only during storms but also while traveling in some instances.

3. They Can Increase Your Home's Resale Value
In addition to protecting your windows, several types of shutters are aesthetically pleasing and can boost your home's purchase price in the event that you'd like to sell it one day.
Keeping your home storm-ready is one of the smartest things you can do as a homeowner. Prevention and continued maintenance now may mean one less call to your local water damage restoration company after high winds or heavy rain in the future.

Negative Effects of and Protections Against Business Power Outages

4/26/2022 (Permalink)

When your business experiences a power outage, the results can be devastating.

The Consequences of Business Power Outages and How to Avoid Them

When your business experiences a power outage, the results can be devastating. Thankfully, there are measures you can take to mitigate the problems that come with suddenly lacking power. Here's some quick information regarding office power loss, along with tips on protecting data.

Effects of Losing Power

A heavy storm or blizzard can knock down power lines in Hillsgrove, RI, putting your company in an unenviable position. Some difficulties that come with suddenly losing energy include:

• Spoiled food, when office lunches are no longer being refrigerated
  
• Lowered productivity, triggered by the inability to access electronic systems
  
• Lost income, due to clients severing ties as a result of dissatisfaction with lack of service
  
  

Additionally, there is the possibility that when a power outage ends there could be a power surge that causes a fire. Even minor blazes can create structural damage that must be fixed by a team of commercial restoration experts.

Protections Against Losing Power

There are numerous ways of keeping your business safe from a loss of power. One essential protective measure is to use a cloud backup and recovery system. Regularly duplicating electronic records keeps important information secure.
Assure that computers are always accessible by installing backup batteries. These replaceable life-savers typically last between three and five years. As a general rule, you want one with a wattage output capacity that is 20 to 25 percent higher than the devices it connects to.

Having a portable generator means lights can stay on until power is restored. A wide variety of options may be found at major hardware stores. Prices range between a few hundred dollars and a couple thousand.
Never ignore the importance of surge protectors. Without one, a sharp electrical rush might completely incapacitate your computer.
A power outage has the potential to wreak havoc on your office. Take steps to guard yours before bad weather brings about disaster.

The Top 3 Commercial Flood Preparation Tips

4/6/2022 (Permalink)

Having business interruption insurance can help in the event of a flood.

Flood Preparation Tips

Owners or occupants of commercial buildings prone to flooding should take measures to prepare properties in Warwick, RI. Planning ahead for flood damage can be beneficial, as it is more difficult to make good decisions when time is limited. Here are three of the most effective flood preparation tips.

1. Make a Flood Level Checklist

The critical utilities in a building should be installed above the Base Flood Elevation level. Any portable items used below this level should be listed and elevated above the level at which they are likely to be exposed to black water prior to flooding. Electric appliances used in office settings are likely to be ruined by exposure to any type of water, and grossly contaminated water can destroy many other types of contents.

2. Get Commercial Flood Insurance

Most commercial general property policies exclude flood damage. For this reason, commercial property owners may want to obtain a separate flood insurance policy through the National Flood Insurance Program or a private insurer. The NFIP General Property Form can insure building property up to $500,000 and personal property up to the same amount.

3. Consider Interruption Insurance

Neither a general commercial property nor an NFIP Commercial policy will offset financial losses that result from the inability of a business to operate for days or weeks due to damage. Business owners can calculate ongoing expenses during a shutdown and take out an interruption insurance policy with a high enough limit to offset these losses during the typical time frame for storm damage restoration.
When flooding is expected to occur in Warwick, RI, property owners or commercial tenants can use a checklist to remember to elevate delicate or important contents and take important safety measures. Maintaining business interruption or commercial flood insurance can also give a building or business owner more peace of mind in the event of a flood.

Causes and Effects of Ice Dams

1/11/2022 (Permalink)

Ice in your beverage is welcome, but an ice dam on your roof is not.

When does a chunk of ice cause as much damage as a natural disaster? The answer may surprise you. With winter storm season approaching in Apponaug, RI, homeowners may not be aware of the danger of the ice dam. It sounds innocuous but can cause serious complications and damage to you and your home.

Causes of Ice Dams

In a perfect world snow accumulates, melts and drains. When this process does not go smoothly, an ice dam occurs. Just as with man-made dams, this wintry dam is a border of ice that commonly forms on the edge of the roof. Water backs up behind the dam and does not drain as expected. Common causes include:

• A poorly insulated or ventilated attic creates heat loss which melts snow on the roof. The water refreezes when it reaches the cooler edge, forming a dam.
• Chimneys or kitchen exhaust systems heat the roof when not extended far enough beyond the house. Unbalanced roof temperatures cause dangerous patterns of melting and freezing.

Effects of Ice Dams

How much damage can ice really cause? Actually, quite a bit. Serious implications of these dams include:

• Icicles look benign, even beautiful. However, there may be trouble when these wintry wonders form due to ice dams. Long, sharp icicles have a large amount of ice behind them when water does not drain. When broken, these objects have the potential to harm people or pull off portions of the housing exterior.
• When water cannot break through the dam, it often finds its way into your home. Resulting water damage impacts house structures and personal property. Water can spread quickly and cause secondary damage throughout, therefore it is best to work with a professional storm restoration company as soon as possible. You may wish to check with your insurance agent to see if ice dam coverage is included in your policy.

Ice in your beverage is welcome, but an ice dam on your roof is not. As a homeowner in Apponaug, RI, be on the lookout for this occurrence when the next winter storm visits.

The Importance of Storm Preparation for Your business

11/9/2021 (Permalink)

Prevent water from entering the property with sandbags.

Any location can experience inclement weather, even Frenchtown, RI, and flood water doesn’t distinguish between a business or home. Being prepared beforehand may help your company prevent water damage.

Storm Preparation Can Help

No one wants to go to their business after a storm and find it in shambles. Help protect your company before the weather hits by implementing the following proper preparation techniques:

• Prevent water from entering the property with sandbags
• Move equipment and furniture to upper floors out of potential flooding zones
• Board up windows and glass doors to prevent flying objects from striking them
• Tarp areas to prevent damage from potential leaks
• Trim trees of loose branches that can fall into the building
• Clear gutter and downspouts of debris to prevent overflow onto the roof

Keep Backup Files

One of the biggest risks flood water presents is to the electronics and equipment your business may use. In many cases, the machinery may be replaced but the files on them cannot. This is why you may want to have a system for creating file backups in place. This way even if you do have to replace the equipment after a storm, your data will not be lost.

Have an Emergency Plan in Place

Before you find yourself dealing with a flooded building, you may want to have an emergency plan for your company already outlined. This can include what preparation procedures need to be done before the weather hits, how cleanup will be handled, and which water damage professionals you may call to handle repairs if needed. If your company building does need repairs, they should be handled as quickly as possible.

Even if you’re located in Frenchtown, RI, flood water can damage your business. Preparing beforehand can help minimize the risk of water damage. It’s best to have an emergency plan in place before the weather hits. If your business is in need of repairs after the storm, a professional can help.

What You Need To Know About Floods as a First Responder

9/24/2021 (Permalink)

Wear protective gear when attending a flood call.

As a First Responder, Here's What You Should Know About Floods

If you're an aspiring first responder, know that you will be required to attend a lot of flood scenes, especially if you live in a flood plain. For this reason, most emergency teams require responders to undergo rigorous flood training and to obtain certain immunizations. Some of the following vaccinations are required, while others are merely recommended:

• Tetanus, required
  
• Hepatitis B, required
  
• Hepatitis A, recommended
  
• Typhoid, recommended
  
• Cholera, recommended
  
• Meningococcal, recommended
  
• Rabies, recommended
  
  

Whether a vaccine is required or recommended, the Hillsgrove, RI, flood restoration experts recommend making sure you are up-to-date on all seven of the above vaccines. You never know what illnesses or diseases you may be exposed to on each flood response mission, and you can do your job best if you can respond with peace of mind.

Additional First Responder Requirements

In addition to receiving the required immunizations, there are other requirements you must fulfill before going on your first rescue mission. For one, you need to complete a state-approved emergency responder course. Most courses are about 40 hours and take approximately 30 days to complete.

You also need to obtain your CPR certificate from an accredited organization. Two reputable organizations whose certificates are accepted just about anywhere include the American Heart Association and the National Institutes of Health.

Once you successfully graduate from the emergency responder course and obtain CPR certification, you can either get your immunizations and start working or go on to take the certification exam for career advancement. There are several reputable organizations that offer this test, the results from which are recognized nationwide.

Of course, your unit will provide you with proper training as well and ensure that you are equipped to respond to a flood call in a safe and effective manner. To learn more about what you need to do to become a first responder, contact your local flood damage control professionals.

Pump Choices for a Flooded Basement

7/29/2021 (Permalink)

The ideal pump type to utilize depends on the amount and type of flooding in your basement.

Options for Pumping a Flooded Basement

There is a storm raging outside in Hoxie, RI, and your basement looks like a small lake. When you have a significant amount of standing water in your home, what is the best equipment to use? Three main types of pumps can get the job done, including the sump pump, trash pump and truck mount.

Sump Pump

• Most commonly installed in residential basements as a flood precaution.
• Water enters the pump through waterlogged soil or drains. The excess water is then pumped away from the house, most often into the yard.
• Electricity powers the pump and centrifugal force is used to push water through the pipe.

Trash Pump

• Often used when the water has already flooded the premises.
• Simultaneously pumps out water and debris. After a storm, flood water may include debris such as trash, sticks, mud, or leaves.
• A trash pump is portable and powerful. It can run off of electricity, batteries, gas, or even solar power.
• Pressure and rotational force are used to move the water and debris through the pipe.

Truck Mount

• This pumping equipment is capable of moving a large amount of water, such as several feet or thousands of gallons.
• Mounted on a truck, the pump can easily be driven to any location.
• Works quickly and efficiently with high water volume using long-reaching, vacuum-powered hoses.

The amount and type of flooding present in your basement in Hoxie, RI, determine the best pump type to use. As soon as you notice a basement flood, take action. Immediately arrange for a water restoration specialist to extract the excess water from your basement before further damage occurs. The water damage restoration company assesses the situation and chooses the most appropriate pumping equipment for the job. Once the water is removed, your basement is dried using dehumidification tools and air movers. Your basement is then cleaned, deodorized and sanitized before the process of restoration begins.

Special Techniques That Aid Recovery After a Storm

5/28/2021 (Permalink)

Immediate response to damage to a building in Frenchtown, RI.

Special Techniques That Aid Recovery After a Storm

While your commercial building in Frenchtown, RI, might seem indestructible, in reality, it is at risk of powerful storms. Thunderstorms unleash lightning and high winds, while tornadoes produce winds of more than 100 miles per hour. As recent events have shown, hail storms can be truly destructive. Hurricanes often generate torrential rains that lead to flooding.
All of these weather events put your facility at risk of damage. Fortunately, an experienced storm remediation company has the equipment and the knowledge to bring your company back from disaster. They often use specialized techniques during the restoration phase.

The Execution of a Tear Out
When water inundates your building, many materials become saturated with moisture. In some cases, normal drying is not sufficient, and a technique known as a flood cut is employed for repairing drywall and wall insulation. In the aftermath of flooding, technicians will perform the following actions:

• Remove all standing water
• Cut the drywall 12 inches above the flood line
• Remove all damaged wall insulation
• Completely dry out the area with fans
• Replace new insulation and drywall
  

This must be done to remove any contamination caused by floodwaters. It ensures the drywall and insulation will not later produce unpleasant odors or result in mold growth.

The Utilization of Professional Cleaning Methods
A professional restoration company will also use many different methods of cleaning and sanitizing areas of a building as well as the contents of a building. While some items such as clothes might need dry cleaning techniques, other items such as non-porous items can benefit from abrasive cleaning or foam cleaning. The technicians will determine the best method of cleaning for each item, and they will use a restore versus replace mentality when possible.
The recovery of your facility from flooding is a complicated process. Trained professionals can restore your building quickly and efficiently with industry-leading techniques and advanced equipment.

4 Steps to a Flood-Free Building

4/12/2021 (Permalink)

Immediate response to your business after water damage.

Steps In Protecting Your Business From Water

Many decisions are involved in creating new business. Are you considering constructing a new commercial building? If so, several considerations must be made prior to breaking ground. One crucial concern that you must not overlook is the potential for flood damage. Proceed with these helpful tips in mind, and avoid the potential for a severe disaster.

1. Avoid a Flood Zone
Before breaking ground in Cowesett, RI, check to see that your new project resides in an area not susceptible to flooding. Some regions to avoid are:

• Documented flood zones.
  
• Land near a lake, river, or other body of water.
  
• Locations with a relatively large amount of rainfall.
  
  

2. Secure the Building
Sometimes, building in a flood zone is unavoidable. If your location is at risk for flood damage, ensure the building is watertight and raised above the ground if situated near a body of water. Further, in regions prone to storm damage, install hurricane-proof windows and doors, and consider adding protective storm shutters.

3. Clean the Gutters
Rain gutters full of debris leave your building at risk for flooding. Large rubble like branches, leaves, and nests can cause a dangerous buildup of water and require immediate removal. Avoid the need for flood repair services by ensuring all gutters receive professional cleaning every six months. Further, safeguard your building by removing all debris and dirt from your roof. Tend to roof damage immediately, filling in any discernable holes and gaps.

4. Get Insurance
Even the most prepared business owners have the potential to experience water damage. Therefore, never open the doors to your new business before obtaining proper commercial building insurance. Be aware that not all insurance policies cover flooding, so make sure to add it to your comprehensive plan before the business' inauguration.
Flood damage is expensive, stressful, and potentially disastrous. Keep your business safe and water-free by following these simple steps.

3 Tips for Managing Flood Risk

1/14/2021 (Permalink)

Flood damage in Warwick, RI

3 Tips for Managing Flood Risk

The FEMA NFIP program exists to help homeowners recover from damage caused by floods. Floods damage thousands of homes every year, but even homeowners at the highest risk of encountering flood damage can take steps to reduce their risk.

1. Know Your Flood Zone
To mitigate your flood risk, you first need to know what your flood risk is. The Federal Emergency Management Agency's Flood Map Service Center provides free flood maps. You can use these maps to determine whether your property is located in a high, moderate or low-risk flood zone.

2. Purchase Flood Insurance
One of the most important risk management steps you can take is to purchase flood insurance through the FEMA NFIP program. Homeowners located within a high-risk flood zone may be required to purchase this insurance to protect against flooding damage, but it is also available to homeowners outside of high-risk areas. Purchasing flood insurance ensures that if your home is damaged or destroyed in a flood, you will have access to financial compensation that will make it possible to repair or rebuild your home. Even if you already have homeowners insurance, you may need a separate flood policy, because most homeowners policies exclude coverage for flood damage.

3. Protect Your Property From Flooding
If your home is located in a high-risk flood zone, take steps to protect it from flooding such as placing the home on stilts. You can also add landscaping features, such as swales and rain gardens, add runoff drainage to your driveway, plant native plants that increase soil drainage and move interior and exterior equipment above the flood line. If your property floods, contact a flood restoration company in Warwick, RI, to assist with drying it out as quickly as possible.
It is beneficial for all homeowners to manage their flood risk by taking steps such as purchasing flood insurance through the FEMA NFIP program. Homeowners with property located in high-risk flood zones should particularly be aware of managing their flood risk.

Common Ways Hail Can Damage Your Business

11/10/2020 (Permalink)

Roof damaged by hailstorm

Understanding How Your Business Is Susceptible To Hail Damage

When hail accompanies severe weather, your business in Apponaug, RI, can suffer severe damages. In addition to causing roof damage, the intense force of large ice pellets can lead to additional problems, including:

• Mold formation
  
• Fire hazards
  
• Poor air quality
  
  

Hailstorms can negatively impact the following areas of your business.

Rooftop HVAC System
An HVAC unit situated on your building's rooftop is especially vulnerable to hail damage. Aluminum condenser coils and fans are easily warped, leading to inadequate regulation of airflow. As a result, the unit works harder yet cools insufficiently. Ultimately this leads to higher utility bills and the unit's demise. Pounding hail pellets can also crush a unit's vent caps and prevent the exhaust of carbon dioxide.

Building Interior
Roof damage, including cracks, loose shingles and clogged gutters, give water access to your building's interior. Small cracks that go unnoticed can cause a steady buildup of moisture that starts to eat away at your building's insulation before working its way into the walls. Sustained water buildup will ultimately lead to mold formation indicated by stains on the walls and ceilings and a musty odor. A mold remediation company can perform air purification and clean up contaminants within your building's structure.

External Landscape
Sometimes the worst hail damage is due to the pummeling of your business's landscape. Strong winds can topple hail-battered trees. Massive trees that fall on your building can break its window, doors or roof, allowing water to flood inside. Water accompanied by strong wind can make its way into electrical outlets to pose a fire hazard. If fallen trees from a hail storm lead to your business's flooding, turn off the power and call an electrician to inspect the premises before you re-renter.
A severe hailstorm can make your business vulnerable to a wide range of structural problems that go beyond external roof damage. Understanding how your business is susceptible to hail damage can help you prepare for the next storm.

5 Ways to Protect Your Property from Severe Storms

10/19/2020 (Permalink)

Create an emergency preparedness plan

Protect Your Home From Severe Weather

Preparation is key when it comes to protecting your home in Warwick, RI, from severe weather, floodwater and other types of water damage. Planning ahead and making sure you're prepared before a storm hit is key to reducing flood damage and keeping your family safe. Follow the tips below to help protect your home and family from severe weather.

1. Create an Emergency Preparedness Plan.
Craft a clear emergency response plan for your family that is easy to follow. Make sure everyone knows where to go and what to do in the case of a severe storm. Make time to regularly discuss and practice this plan, especially if your local weather channel predicts an incoming storm.

2. Pay Attention to Local Emergency Alerts.
The Emergency Alert System (EAS) can provide reliable, real-time updates regarding the storm. Make sure everyone in your household signs up for this system so that you can stay updated on new developments.

3. Build an Emergency Supply Kit.
Put together an emergency response kit for your household containing valuable necessities. Suggested items to stock include, but are not limited to, batteries, bandages, non-perishable foods, blankets, a battery-powered radio and a flashlight.

4. Protect and Waterproof Valuable Items.
Any valuable items that are unlikely to survive a flooded building need to be sealed in waterproof containers and relocated to a high shelf that's at least one foot above the floodwater level. This includes important documents, electronic devices and other important possessions that are susceptible to water damage.

5. Trim Back Overgrown Tree Branches.
Severe winds can quickly transform overgrown tree branches into dangerous projectiles. You can help prevent tree limbs from flying in through your windows by trimming back any branches that are growing to close to your property.
Rising floodwater, dangerously high winds and heavy rains can all inflict devastating damage on your property if you aren't prepared. Contact flood remediation experts if your home has suffered damage from a recent storm or flood.

How To Make a Business Continuity Plan

9/8/2020 (Permalink)

A continuity plan can keep your company running in the immediate aftermath of a flood

To Develop Your Plan, Follow The Below Steps

A storm can affect your company in multiple ways. Flood damage could leave your Cowesett, RI, headquarters temporarily unavailable. This, in turn, may disrupt your business. That is why you need a continuity plan.
This plan details how you will keep your company running after a disaster. 

1. Make a Business Impact Analysis
As its name implies, a business impact analysis predicts how flooding or other disasters may affect your company. Start by handing out this survey to the managers in your company. It asks them to describe the financial and operational impacts of a potential business interruption. Possible impacts include regulatory fines, customer defections, and lost sales. You may also have to spend more money on overtime labor or cleanup and restoration services.
The survey additionally asks the managers to consider the duration and timing of the potential disaster. After all, this may determine the severity of the consequences.
Once the surveys are complete, review them carefully. Do not be afraid to conduct follow-up interviews to clarify the information in the questionnaires.

2. Determine Recovery Strategies
Once you have finalized the surveys, determine exactly what resources you need to implement your continuity plan. This may require utilizing third parties or converting alternative spaces into makeshift offices. You may also need to equip your employees with the tools they need to telecommute.

3. Develop the Plan
Next, work with a select group of employees to develop your plan. The plan should include relocation strategies and manual workarounds that allow your business to function while the computers are being fixed.

4. Test and Update
Finally, share the plan with your employees and have them test it out. Document the results of these tests and update your plan if necessary.
Storm damage does not have to destroy your business. If you develop a continuity plan in advance, you can keep your company running in the immediate aftermath of the flood.

How To Mitigate Damage After a Storm

8/3/2020 (Permalink)

Storm damage in Apponaug, RI

A hurricane or similar disaster can cause a lot of harm in a short period of time. Storm damage restoration professionals can assist you with the cleanup. Yet they may not show up to your Apponaug, RI, home right away, especially if many houses in your area were affected by the weather event.
There are things you can do while you wait for help to arrive. The below storm tips should help you mitigate further damage to your home.

Flood Damage

If the storm caused your home to flood, electrical devices could be dangerous. You should thus avoid using any of the following:

• Ceiling fixtures
  
• Vacuums
  
• Appliances
  
• Televisions
  
  

However, you may want to run your air conditioner to speed up the drying process. You should also remove any loose items from wet floors. Leather goods and fabrics should be hung up to dry.
You can then start blotting or mopping some of the excess water. You can also wipe water off your wooden furniture.

Sewage Damage
Floods do not just bring clear water into your home. Some of the water may be contaminated by sewage. The storm tips for dealing with this biohazard are similar to those for handling clear water. Avoid using any appliances or electronics, and pick up any items off wet floors and move them to dry areas. However, you should not attempt to clean or wipe sewage water on your own. Instead, turn off your HVAC system and stay out of the affected areas.

Mold Damage
Floodwater can also quickly lead to mold growth in your home. If you spot mold, do not try to dry or clean the contaminated items. Instead, shut off any fans or air conditioners to avoid spreading mold spores and let the pros handle the rest.
The above storm tips can help you protect your home and your loved ones after a disaster. Following these tips is just the first step of the recovery process, however. Restoration professionals should do most of the heavy work to get your house back to normal.

The Best Techniques for Dealing With Contaminated Water

3/30/2020 (Permalink)

Commercial warehouse flood damage in Shawomet, RI

The Best Techniques for Dealing With Contaminated Water

In the unfortunate event of a flood impacting your business in Shawomet, RI, it is important to practice caution with the flood water. It should be considered contaminated since it could contain germs, bacteria, chemicals, sewage, and other unclean substances. Untrained employees should steer clear of contact with potentially harmful black water. A professional storm response team has the experience, training, and equipment to deal with the situation. Trained and certified technicians will take the following actions:

• Arrive on-site fast
  
• Inspect and assess the situation
  
• Create a plan of action
  
• Wear PPE
  safely remove and extract flood water
  
• Treat affected materials accordingly
  
  

The Importance of Standards

Two important organizations work to create high standards for the cleaning and restoration industries. The Institution of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification and the American National Standards Institute are leaders in efforts to create voluntary standards for many areas of cleanup and recovery. They publish brochures with the recommended standards for such areas as water damage restoration, mold remediation and mold assessment. These standards have been developed through a rigorous process that involves many of the stakeholders in the cleaning and restoration field. These standards are considered by many to be best practices. Most are voluntary, but some standards have been adopted through state and federal regulations.

The Danger of Flood Water

When your company faces storm damage of any kind, a number of dangers are suddenly present that didn't exist before. Electrical systems pose a danger of electrical shock. Contaminated water has detrimental human health implications. Most employees are not trained in these matters and it is usually best to call in the professionals. Furthermore, the use of PPE should be used to protect everyone. These steps include wearing rubber gloves and face masks to prevent inhalation of harmful materials. A flood is a distressing event for your company, but with smart actions you can experience a full recovery.