Protecting Your Property from Falling Trees during a Windstorm

9/27/2023 (Permalink)

Windstorms are a common occurrence during the fall and winter months. These powerful storms bring strong winds that can cause trees to fall, posing a significant risk to your property. Understanding the potential dangers and taking proactive measures to protect your property from falling trees is crucial. In this blog post, we will explore some steps you can take to safeguard your property during windstorms.

Assess Tree Health

The first step in protecting your property from falling trees is to assess the health of the trees on your property. Look for signs of tree decay, such as hollowed-out trunks or large cavities, dead branches, or excessive leaning. These signs indicate potential weakness and make the tree more susceptible to falling during a windstorm. If you notice any of these warning signs, it is important to consult with a professional arborist to determine if the tree needs to be removed or if it can be pruned to reduce the risk of falling.

Pruning your trees regularly is an essential step in minimizing the risk of falling branches during a windstorm. Proper pruning techniques involve removing dead or weak branches, thinning out dense canopies, and trimming branches away from buildings, power lines, and other structures. It is recommended to hire a certified arborist for this task, as they have the expertise to prune trees safely and effectively.

Remove Hazardous Trees

If you have trees on your property that are extensively decayed, have large cavities, or are leaning dangerously, it may be necessary to remove them entirely. Hazardous trees pose a significant risk during windstorms and can cause significant damage to your property if they fall. Consult with a professional arborist to assess the condition of hazardous trees and determine the best course of action.

For trees that are valuable to your property or heritage trees that may have structural issues, installing tree supports and bracing systems can provide additional stability and reduce the risk of falling during windstorms. A professional arborist can assess the tree's condition and recommend appropriate tree support systems to protect your property.

Secure Outdoor Items

During windstorms, even small objects can become dangerous projectiles. Secure outdoor items such as patio furniture, garden tools, and children's toys to prevent them from being carried by the wind and causing damage to your property or neighboring structures. Store lightweight items in a safe location or tie them down securely.

If you have trees located near your home or other structures, it is crucial to maintain a safe distance between them. The general guideline is to have a buffer zone of at least the height of the tree away from buildings. This allows enough space for the tree to fall without causing significant damage to your property.

Windstorms can be powerful and pose a significant risk to your property from falling trees. By assessing tree health, properly pruning trees, removing hazardous trees, installing tree supports, securing outdoor items, and maintaining a safe distance, you can minimize the potential damage caused by falling trees during windstorms. Taking proactive measures will give you peace of mind and protect your property during windstorms.

The Road to Restoration: Tips for a Successful Fire Cleanup Process

8/30/2023 (Permalink)

Experiencing a fire in your Loveland, CO, home or property can be devastating, but the road to restoration begins with the fire cleanup process. Proper cleanup is crucial for minimizing further damage and setting the stage for successful restoration. In this article, we will explore key considerations and provide valuable tips to help homeowners and property owners navigate the fire cleanup process effectively.

Ensure Safety First

Before starting any fire cleanup activities, prioritize safety. Ensure the property is structurally sound and obtain clearance from the fire department or relevant authorities. Use personal protective equipment (PPE) such as masks, gloves, and goggles to protect yourself during cleanup.

Engage Professional Restoration Services

Consider hiring professional fire restoration experts, such as SERVPRO of Loveland, who specialize in fire cleanup. These professionals have the knowledge, experience, and equipment to handle the complexities of fire damage, ensuring a thorough and efficient cleanup process

Document the Damage

Before beginning cleanup, document the extent of the fire damage. Take detailed photographs or videos of the affected areas. This documentation will be crucial for insurance claims and working with restoration professionals.

Ventilate the Property

Proper ventilation is essential to remove smoke odor and improve air quality. Open windows and use fans to circulate fresh air. Consider using air purifiers or consult with professionals for advanced smoke odor removal techniques.

Water Damage Mitigation

Water used to extinguish the fire can cause additional damage. Address any water-related issues promptly to prevent mold growth and further structural damage. Consult with restoration professionals to assess and mitigate water damage effectively.

Soot and Smoke Residue Removal

Soot and smoke residue can be challenging to remove, often requiring specialized techniques and cleaning products. Avoid DIY methods that can worsen the damage. Professional restoration services have the expertise to safely and thoroughly remove soot and smoke residue from surfaces and belongings.

Salvaging and Cleaning Belongings

Work with restoration professionals to assess which belongings can be salvaged. They will guide you through the process of cleaning and restoring items such as furniture, clothing, documents, and electronics. Prompt action is crucial for increasing the chances of successful restoration.

Addressing Structural Concerns

Evaluate the structural integrity of your property after a fire. Engage professionals to assess and repair any damage to the foundation, walls, ceilings, and other structural elements. Prompt repairs are essential to ensure safety and prevent further deterioration.

Coordinate with Insurance

Notify your insurance company promptly and provide them with accurate documentation of the damage. Consult with your insurance adjuster to understand the coverage, claims process, and any additional documentation or information required.

The fire cleanup process is a crucial step toward restoring your home or property after a fire. By considering these key factors and following the tips outlined above, you can navigate the road to restoration more effectively. Remember, professional assistance, documentation, and safety measures are all essential components of a successful fire cleanup process. Take the necessary steps, and with time, patience, and expert guidance, you can restore your property and move forward on the path to recovery.

Beyond Flooding: Understanding the Different Types of Storm Damage and How to Prepare

6/14/2023 (Permalink)

Storm damage can cause a variety of problems including your gutters and roof.

When most people think of storm damage, they often imagine heavy rains and flooding. However, storm damage can take many forms and can be caused by a variety of weather conditions.  Preventing storm damage in the first place can save you a lot of time, money, and stress. Some preventative measures include regular property inspections, trimming trees and branches near your property, securing outdoor items, installing storm shutters or impact-resistant windows, and reinforcing your roof. By taking these preventative measures, you can help minimize the risk of storm damage to your property and ensure the safety of your family during severe weather events. Here are some examples of storm damage that don't involve rain flooding.

High winds

Strong winds can cause extensive damage to your property, including roof damage, broken windows, fallen trees, and power outages. It's important to take precautions such as trimming trees, securing outdoor furniture, and boarding up windows to minimize the impact of high winds.

Hail

Hail can cause significant damage to your property, including dented roofing, broken windows, and damaged siding. If you notice any signs of hail damage, it's important to address it promptly to prevent further damage.

Lightning strikes

Lightning strikes can cause fires, power surges, and damage to electronics. It's important to have surge protectors and smoke detectors in place to minimize the impact of lightning strikes.

Tornadoes

Tornadoes can cause extensive damage to your property, including roof damage, broken windows, and collapsed structures. It's important to have a plan in place for tornadoes, including a designated safe room and emergency supplies.

Extreme temperatures

Extreme temperatures, such as heat waves or cold snaps, can cause damage to your property, including burst pipes and damaged roofs. It's important to take precautions such as insulating pipes and properly ventilating your home to prevent damage from extreme temperatures.

If your property has been affected by storm damage, it's important to take action quickly to minimize the impact and prevent further damage. This may include contacting your insurance company, taking photos of the damage, and making temporary repairs to prevent further damage, such as covering broken windows or tarping a damaged roof. It's also important to prioritize your safety and avoid entering your property if there is any risk of structural damage or electrical hazards. By taking swift action and working with professionals such as insurance adjusters and contractors, you can help get your property back to its pre-damaged state and ensure the safety and comfort of your family.

In conclusion, storm damage can take many forms and can be caused by a variety of weather conditions. By being aware of the potential sources of storm damage and taking preventative measures, you can help minimize the impact of storm damage on your property. It's also important to have a plan in place for emergencies and to stay informed about weather conditions in your area.

Say Goodbye to Mold in Your Shower: A Comprehensive Guide for Homeowners

6/7/2023 (Permalink)

Mold in the shower can be frustrating and lead to secondary damages.

Mold is a common problem in showers and can be harmful to both the structure of the shower. If you are dealing with mold in your shower, it is important to act quickly to prevent it from spreading and causing further damage. In this article, we will provide you with some tips and tricks on how to get rid of mold in a shower.

Identify the source of the moisture

Mold thrives in damp environments, so it is important to identify the source of the moisture in your shower. Leaks in the plumbing, poor ventilation, and improper sealing can all contribute to excess moisture in a shower. Once you have identified the source, you can take steps to address the underlying issue.

Clean the affected area

To remove mold from your shower, start by cleaning the affected area with an appropriate cleaning solution. Use a sponge or brush to scrub the moldy surface. Be sure to wear gloves and a mask to protect yourself while cleaning. Rinse the area thoroughly with water and allow it to dry completely.

Use vinegar or hydrogen peroxide

If you prefer a more natural approach, you can use vinegar or hydrogen peroxide to clean mold in your shower. Simply spray the affected area with either solution and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, scrub the area with a brush or sponge and rinse with water.

Prevent future mold growth

To prevent mold from returning to your shower, it is important to keep the area dry and well-ventilated. Run the bathroom fan during and after showers to remove excess moisture from the air. Wipe down the walls and floor of the shower after each use with a squeegee or towel to prevent water from sitting on the surface. Consider using a mold-resistant shower curtain or liner as well.

Call a professional if necessary

If the mold in your shower is extensive or difficult to remove, it may be best to call a professional mold remediation company. A professional can assess the extent of the mold damage and recommend the best course of action. They can also use specialized equipment to remove the mold safely and effectively.

Be proactive about mold prevention

While it is possible to remove mold from your shower, prevention is always the best course of action. Regularly inspect your shower for leaks or signs of moisture and address any issues promptly. Consider installing a dehumidifier in your bathroom to reduce humidity levels. And be sure to use mold-resistant materials when building or remodeling your bathroom.

By being proactive about mold prevention and taking swift action to remove any mold that does appear, you can keep your shower and your bathroom healthy and mold-free. If you have any concerns about mold in your home, be sure to consult with a professional for advice and assistance.

Preventing and Eliminating Shower Mold for a Safe and Healthy Bathroom

In conclusion, mold in a shower can be a frustrating and potentially harmful problem. However, by identifying the source of the moisture, cleaning the affected area, and taking steps to prevent future mold growth, you can get rid of mold in your shower and keep your bathroom safe and healthy for you and your family.

Restoring Safety: The Fire Damage Cleanup Process in Commercial Buildings

4/10/2023 (Permalink)

The fire damage cleanup process in commercial buildings is a complex process that requires specialized equipment and expertise.

Commercial buildings are susceptible to fire damage, which can cause significant loss of property and business interruption. Fire damage requires specialized cleanup and restoration services to ensure that the building is safe to occupy again. In this blog, we'll discuss the fire damage cleanup process in commercial buildings and the steps involved in restoring the property to its preloss condition.

Assessing the Damage

The first step in the fire damage cleanup process is to assess the damage. A professional restoration company will conduct a thorough inspection of the building to determine the extent of the damage. This inspection will identify the areas of the building that are affected by fire, smoke, and water damage. The restoration company will also identify the source of the fire and determine the type of fire that occurred.

Removing Debris

The next step in the fire damage cleanup process is to remove all debris from the building. This includes any materials that were damaged by the fire, such as furniture, equipment, and building materials. The restoration company will use specialized equipment to remove debris from the building safely. It's important to remove all debris from the building to prevent further damage and to create a safe environment for the restoration process.

Cleaning and Sanitizing

After the debris is removed, the restoration company will begin the cleaning and sanitizing process. This involves removing smoke, soot, and water damage from the building's surfaces. The restoration company will use specialized equipment and cleaning solutions to clean and sanitize the building's walls, floors, and ceilings. This process will remove any traces of smoke and soot, which can cause health problems if left untreated.

Drying and Dehumidifying

After the cleaning and sanitizing process is complete, the restoration company will begin the drying and dehumidifying process. This process involves removing excess moisture from the building's surfaces and air. The restoration company will use specialized equipment, such as dehumidifiers and air movers, to dry the building thoroughly. This step is important to prevent mold growth and further damage to the building's structure.

Restoring the Building

After the building is dry, the restoration company will begin the process of restoring the building. This involves rebuilding damaged areas of the building, such as walls, ceilings, and floors. The restoration company will also replace damaged equipment and materials. The goal of the restoration process is to restore the building to its preloss condition, so it's safe to occupy again.

Final Inspection

Once the restoration process is complete, the restoration company will conduct a final inspection of the building. This inspection will ensure that all areas of the building are restored to their preloss condition. The restoration company will also conduct a final cleaning and sanitizing of the building to ensure that it's safe to occupy again.

The fire damage cleanup process in commercial buildings is a complex process that requires specialized equipment and expertise. It's important to hire a professional restoration company to ensure that the building is restored to its preloss condition safely. The restoration process involves assessing the damage, removing debris, cleaning and sanitizing, drying and dehumidifying, restoring the building, and conducting a final inspection. If your commercial building has experienced fire damage, contact a professional restoration company to begin the cleanup and restoration process as soon as possible.

What To Do If The Fire Sprinklers Accidentally Go Off?

3/15/2023 (Permalink)

If you experience a water loss after an accidental fire sprinkler accident, give SERVPRO a call today!

Fire sprinklers are an important safety feature in many buildings. They are designed to automatically detect and extinguish fires, helping to protect both people and property. However, on rare occasions, sprinkler systems can malfunction, causing the sprinklers to go off accidentally. If you find yourself in this situation, it is important to know what to do to minimize the damage and ensure your safety. In this blog post, we will discuss what steps to take if the fire sprinklers go off accidentally.

Step 1: Evacuate the Building

The first and most important step is to evacuate the building immediately. Even if the sprinklers have gone off accidentally, there may still be a fire or other hazardous conditions present. Follow the emergency evacuation procedures for the building and exit as quickly and safely as possible.

Step 2: Call the Fire Department

Once you are safely outside the building, call the fire department to report the incident. Even if there is no fire, it is important to let the professionals handle the situation. They can inspect the building to make sure there are no other hazards present and turn off the sprinkler system.

Step 3: Document the Damage

If possible, document any damage caused by the sprinklers. Take pictures or video of the affected areas and make note of any damage to furniture, electronics, or other items. This documentation may be necessary if you need to file an insurance claim.

Step 4: Contact the Building Owner or Manager

If you are a tenant in the building, contact the building owner or manager to report the incident. They will need to be aware of the situation and may need to coordinate repairs or cleanup efforts.

Step 5: Clean up the Water

Once the sprinklers have been turned off, you will need to clean up any water that has accumulated. Use a wet-dry vacuum or mop to remove as much water as possible, and set up fans or dehumidifiers to help dry out the affected areas. If you are unable to handle the cleanup yourself, contact a professional restoration company to assist you.

Step 6: Prevent Future Accidents

Finally, take steps to prevent future accidents. Have the sprinkler system inspected and serviced regularly to ensure it is functioning properly. Keep flammable materials away from sprinkler heads and make sure the system is not obstructed by furniture or other items.

In conclusion, if the fire sprinklers go off accidentally, it is important to act quickly and safely. Evacuate the building, call the fire department, document any damage, contact the building owner or manager, clean up the water, and take steps to prevent future accidents. By following these steps, you can minimize the damage and ensure the safety of everyone involved.

8 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Water Damage Restoration Company

2/20/2023 (Permalink)

If you experience fire or water damage, give SERVPRO a call for your restoration needs.

If you have water damage in your home or business, it may be tempting to hire the first company that comes along. However, as with any service, there are many factors to consider before hiring anyone. Water damage restoration companies vary widely in quality and experience. Asking the right questions can help ensure that you find the right company for your needs. Before hiring a restoration company, you should ask them these questions.

Are you licensed and insured?

When a water restoration company says they're licensed, they mean it. Licensed companies have been tested by the state and should be able to provide you with a license number that can be verified online. Ask for this information when you call around or receive quotes from several different companies, and make sure that they all have licenses.

A water damage restoration company's insurance is another important consideration. Your belongings are expensive, so make sure that your contractor has adequate coverage in case something goes wrong during the process of cleaning up after your flooded basement or broken pipe burst.

You don't want to work with someone who isn't fully licensed and insured; otherwise, if anything happens on their watch, it could cost you more money than what was originally needed for repairs!

Do you have experience?

Experience is important when it comes to hiring a water damage restoration company. The more experience they have, the more likely they are to be able to handle any situation that comes their way and the better job they will do of restoring your home or business.

Experience also shows that a company is reliable, trustworthy and credible. Successful companies have been around for many years because they produce good results, so choosing one with an established track record shows you’ll get what you pay for.

Are the technicians trained?

The technicians you hire should be highly trained in water damage cleanup and restoration. Good and trustworthy technicians should also have training in mold remediation, fire damage restoration, flood damage restoration, and storm damage restoration.

Make sure that the technicians who are going to be working on your home are certified by the IICRC (International Institute for Certification of Restoration Contractors). This certification ensures that they have been trained properly and will provide a high-quality service when they're done with your repairs.

How long have you been in business?

The length of time a company has been in business can be an indication of its reliability. Ask the potential company how long they have been in business, and if they have been in the industry for as long as you think would be appropriate based on their state's licensing requirements.

Do you work with insurance companies?

It's important to ask whether the company you're considering has experience working through the claims process with insurance companies. Ask them if they take care of the claims process for you as part of their service or if it's something that you will have to deal with yourself.

If you want a smooth process from start to finish, make sure that your water damage restoration company is licensed, and insured, and handles the claims process from start to finish so that they can handle all aspects of the mitigation and restoration process of your home or business.

Do you offer free estimates?

It is important to get an estimate before starting work in order to determine the scope of the damage and ensure that you are getting what you need. However, some companies may try to trick you by giving a high-priced estimate upfront. They might claim that they're offering a "free" estimate and then charge you for it later on.

Estimates should be based on the actual damage—not just guesses about how much it will cost or how long it will take, which could lead to higher fees than necessary. At least three things should factor into these estimates:

How much labor is required? How much equipment is required? How long will this process take?

Do you provide emergency services?

If your home or business is damaged by water, it’s not always possible for you or your family to wait all day for help. You want someone who will come out immediately when you call them about an emergency situation.

How do they handle same-day service?

There are two types of restoration companies: those who provide same-day service and those who don’t. If it's possible that your home or business could be flooded with water at any time, then you might want a company that offers this type of quick response time in case something happens. Some organizations offer on-call services as well—if this sounds like something worth looking into for your needs, make sure that whatever company provides said service is available whenever needed!

Can you provide references from customers that have used your services for water damage repair?

Asking for references can be a great way to learn more about a company and what they do, but it's important that you ask the right questions. Ideally, you should ask for references from previous customers who have used their services. If they're unwilling to provide any, that could be a bad sign. However, if they do provide them or if you know someone who has used their services before and had a positive experience with them, it can give you peace of mind when deciding on which company to hire.

Asking these questions will help ensure that you choose the right water damage removal company.

Remember, water damage restoration is an important process that needs to be handled correctly from start to finish. While it may seem like a lot of questions, these are all important things to consider when hiring a water damage restoration company. Asking these questions will help ensure that you choose the right water damage removal company.

How to Create a Fire Escape Plan For Your Business

12/12/2022 (Permalink)

Having a fire escape plan in place can help you to prevent fires.

Creating a Fire Escape Plan for Your Business

Fire safety is an important part of running a business and having a fire escape plan in place can help you to prevent fires and reduce the impact if one does occur. By following these steps, your business will be able to create a fire escape plan that meets legal requirements and keeps people safe in the event of an emergency.

Know the Layout of Your Building

The first step to creating a fire escape plan is to know the layout of your building. For example, do you know where your fire extinguishers are located? Do you know how to use them in case of an emergency? Are there any other safety measures in place, such as sprinklers or alarms, that would help alert you if a fire broke out? Knowing these details can help guide your evacuation route and prepare you for what may come.

Practice Your Evacuation Plan Regularly

Talk through potential emergencies with employees. You should have a meeting with all of your employees. At this meeting, discuss what to do if there is a fire and what everyone needs to do if they are trapped in a room. Make sure that everyone knows how to use the available fire extinguishers, too.

You should practice your fire escape plan at least twice a year, and more often if your business requires it. If you are required by law to have a fire drill, you'll need to make sure all employees know what's expected of them during the drill. You may also want to consider conducting drills with more than one employee present, so they can all practice working together in an emergency situation.

If you don't have any legal requirements for fire drills, but still want to conduct them more frequently than twice a year (as we strongly recommend), ensure that everyone knows why they're taking part in these exercises and how they can help avoid putting themselves or others at risk when an actual emergency occurs.

Take Note of Fire Hazards

It's important to keep an eye out for fire hazards. Fire hazards include combustible materials—wood, paper, plastics, and fabrics—as well as electrical equipment like extension cords, lighting fixtures and outlets. Heating appliances such as space heaters, steam irons and coffee pots are also potential sources of fire.

Fire hazards can be prevented by using the right type of material or equipment in your business. For example:

• Use fire-resistant materials instead of those that are flammable
• Check to see if your wall outlets are properly grounded before plugging electrical devices into them. If they're not properly grounded, they could cause sparking that could result in a fire or shock hazard when plugged into an outlet with a faulty ground connection.

Make the Plan Easily Accessible

Post evacuation routes and floor plans where they can be seen. Make sure that emergency evacuation plans are posted in visible places and clearly marked so that everyone knows how to get out of the building. This includes posting an up-to-date version of your emergency procedures, which should include instructions on what to do in an emergency, where all exits are located, how to find a fire extinguisher if one is needed, etc.

Share information with employees regularly--not just when there's an incident! While it's true that businesses should train their workers on what steps they need to take during an actual incident (such as when someone passes out from smoke inhalation), it's also wise for employers to share this information with employees regularly. 

Keep fire extinguishers on-site and know how to use them

Fire extinguishers are your first line of defense in the event of a fire. They should be kept on hand and easily accessible at all times. If you have multiple exits, make sure there is an extinguisher near each one.

If you have more than one type of fire extinguisher on-site, know how to use them. 

Class A fires involve paper products, such as books or cardboard boxes. Use water or dry chemical to put out these fires.

Class B fires involve flammable liquids like gasoline or solvents that are stored in their containers for immediate use. Use water or foam to put out these fires (foam will expand over time so it's ideal for this situation). It's important not to let the fumes from Class Bs build up too much before extinguishing them; otherwise they can explode!

Class C fires involve electrical equipment such as televisions and computers—and believe us when we say that no one wants those things exploding in their office space! When dealing with this type of burn hazard, unplug any nearby equipment immediately (if possible) and then turn off power at its source if there isn't an easy way around doing so without touching exposed wires directly yourself first; once all electricity has been cut off safely without risk involved then proceed with using foam instead because it won't conduct electricity like water would do so quickly put out those flames before they spread further throughout your workspace environment where they might damage other objects nearby.

In summary, fire safety is of paramount importance. As a business owner, it’s your responsibility to ensure that your employees are safe and prepared in the event of an emergency. By following this guide and creating a fire escape plan with your team today, you can ensure greater peace of mind tomorrow.

Content Cleaning After a Water Loss

11/7/2022 (Permalink)

Fans are another option for drying out your home after a flood.

How To Clean Up After a Water Loss 

The aftermath of a water loss can be devastating. You might not know where to start, but don’t worry, we’re here to help! If you need professional help in cleaning and restoring your Loveland, CO home after an unexpected flood or burst pipe, our team of restoration experts is ready for the call. In this blog post, we’ll cover how to clean up after a water loss and some steps you can take before calling a professional.

Separate Items

The first step in the process is to separate damaged items from non-damaged ones. Damaged items should be placed in a pile for further cleaning and drying, while non-damaged ones can be returned to their proper places.

If you do not know whether an item is damaged, use the "five-foot rule": if you can't tell whether something is damaged when it is five feet away, then it's probably safe to assume that it is not damaged by the flood water itself.

Contact Insurance

When you contact your insurance company, ask how the damage should be cleaned up. Your policy might require that you contract a professional to clean up the water and dry out your home before filing a claim. If you are unsure of what is covered in your policy, call or email your agent or company representative and ask them directly if they will cover any of the costs associated with cleaning up after a flood.

Drying Takes Time

It is important to understand that the drying process takes time. The amount of time it takes depends on many factors, including:

• How much water was in the building before you came in
• How quickly you get rid of the water
• How humid and cold it was outside during and after your clean up

Cleaning and Sanitizing

Clean and sanitize the area. Use a disinfectant or cleaning solution to remove dirt, dust, and other debris from the area. After you're done using a disinfectant, rinse it off with water and wipe down the area with a clean cloth to dry it completely.

Dry the area completely. Dehumidifiers can help speed up this process by pulling moisture out of the air (but don't use them if they get too hot!). Fans are another option for drying out your home after a flood; just be sure not to use them in an enclosed space like an attic or crawlspace since they could spread mold spores throughout your house.

Check for mold and mildew growth and treat accordingly!

Call SERVPRO of Loveland

After a water loss, you should call in the professionals at SERVPRO to help you mitigate and restore your home or business. There are several reasons why this is so important:

• You could make the situation worse by trying to clean up the mess yourself.
• Vacuuming can spread water damage, so it's not recommended.
• A wet/dry vacuum could also spread contamination because they have no filters that trap dirt and debris as regular vacuums do.
• Hair dryers shouldn't be used either because they use heat that could cause damage to your belongings.

If you have experienced a water loss, SERVPRO of Loveland can help. SERVPRO of Loveland has the equipment and expertise to respond quickly and thoroughly clean your property after water damage.

SERVPRO of Loveland professional cleaners remove mold and mildew from your home or business. They will also ensure that any structural repairs are done by professionals, such as a drywall contractor or electrician. The team at SERVPRO of Loveland understands that the effects of water damage can be devastating for families, so they try their best to mitigate the impact on your life as much as possible by providing assistance through insurance companies and helping in any way possible until everything is back to normal again.

There are many factors to consider when trying to restore your home after a water loss. The most important thing is that you work with an experienced restoration company that understands your needs. They will be able to help you restore your belongings, clean up the damage and make sure everything goes back together in exactly the right way so you can get back on track quickly.

Fire Prevention Tips for Businesses

10/5/2022 (Permalink)

Install and regularly inspect your smoke detectors.

Keep Your Business Safe

In the event of a fire, it's important to be prepared. Here are some simple things you can do to keep your business safe:

1. Install and regularly inspect smoke detectors.

To have a functioning smoke detector in every room, hallway and stairwell, install them on the ceiling or wall 5 to 7 feet above the floor. Test your smoke detectors monthly by pushing the test button. Replace batteries annually and replace the smoke detector every 10 years (or sooner if they don't work properly).

If there's ever an issue with your smoke detectors, take action immediately by contacting a professional or replacing them altogether.

2. Keep and regularly test your fire extinguishers.

It is important to regularly test your fire extinguisher. Most fire extinguishers should be tested once a month and replaced after 10 years, but you should consult with the manufacturer to see what their specific recommendations are. Each time you test the fire extinguisher, follow these steps:

• Check that the pressure gauge reads between 40-60 PSI (pounds per square inch). If it doesn't then replace it immediately.
• Pull out the safety pin (if there is one).
• Pull out the handle while holding down on top of the canister so no air escapes until foam sprays out of all nozzles at least 1 second later. Wait 30 seconds before re-pressurizing with air or nitrogen gas if there is an onboard valve available for this purpose; otherwise hold down on top of the canister again until foam comes out again and release pressure slowly after waiting 30 seconds again even if not re-pressurizing (this step does not apply to CO2 based systems).

3. Schedule fire drills with your employees.

Schedule fire drills with your employees. It’s important to have an emergency plan in place and refresh it every six months. Fire drills should be timed to coincide with business hours, so everyone can participate if they need to evacuate. The best way to ensure that all staff members are able to participate is by holding fire drills at off-peak times, such as early morning or late evening when most people are not present. This will also minimize any disruption of your customer's/patients' experiences at your organization.

Another key element of a successful drill is making sure that your staff knows where the exits are located and how far away they are from each other.

4. Maintain an evacuation map in an easily accessible place (near the front door).

The map should include escape routes and the nearest fire extinguishers. It should also be updated regularly to reflect changes to your business and employees’ routines. Keep in mind that if you have more than one floor, you may need to use alternative escape routes if your primary way out is blocked by fire or smoke.

5. Keep emergency numbers on hand.

Write down the numbers of your local fire department and your local police department. Keep the list on hand, in a place where you can easily access it if needed. If you're out of town, keep this list with you so that anyone who needs to report a fire or call for help can do so without having to look up numbers online.

If you take these steps, you can protect your business and your employees from fire. Many of the tips we’ve discussed here help keep your employees safe, but they also make it easier for them to help you in an emergency. By keeping fire extinguishers in good condition and testing them regularly, for example, everyone will be familiar with where they are located should there ever be an emergency. In addition to having an evacuation map available near the front door of your building (along with other important info like emergency numbers), it’s also important for employees to know how to use them properly so that their efforts don’t end up doing more harm than good.