Flash Floods

2/3/2022 (Permalink)

Floods are one of the most common and widespread natural disasters in the United States.  Nearly 20% of all flood insurance claims come from moderate-to-low risk areas. 

Here are a few Flood Facts provided by FEMA:

• Flash floods can bring walls of water from 10 to 20 feet high.
• Flooding can be caused by spring thawing (snow and frozen grounds melting in the spring), heavy rains, snow melt runoffs, flash floods, and mudflows.
• Floods are the most widespread natural disaster aside from wildfires. 
• A 2,000 square foot home undergoing 12 feet of water damage could cost more than $50,000 to repair.

Here are a few supplies you need to prepare for a flood:

• Stock up on First Aid items
• Non-perishable foods
• Three gallons of water per person for 3 days
• Battery operated radio for weather reports
• Extra batteries
• Personal hygiene necessities

About SERVPRO of Laurel

SERVPRO of Laurel specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help

Call Today – 601-425-0119

Do You Have Dirty Ducts?

10/2/2021 (Permalink)

Improve your indoor air quality with duct cleaning.

Did you know your ventilation system is often the biggest culprit in poor indoor air quality? In most cases, the HVAC system has been operating for some time without much attention. Dirty ducts can circulate odors, contaminants such as mold and irritating dust throughout your building or home.

A routine part of your local SERVPRO Franchise Professional's service is inspecting the heating, ventilation and air conditioning unit (HVAC). Keeping the HVAC and ductwork clean can potentially extend the life-span of the equipment by allowing it to operate at peak condition, which may help save you money. Duct cleaning may not always be necessary.

In some circumstances, such as after a fire, smoke or suspected mold growth, duct cleaning becomes an essential part of the cleanup process. In these cases, your SERVPRO Fanchise Professional can often restore the HVAC system and ductwork to pre-damage condition.

If you have a fuel-burning furnace, stove or fireplace, the U.S. Environmental Agency (EPA) recommends they be inspected for proper functioning and be serviced before each heating season to protect against carbon monoxide poisoning.

The SERVPRO Duct Cleaning System is proven and cost-efficient. Unlike the majority of duct cleaning services, your SERVPRO Franchise Professional uses a portable ventilation and air duct cleaning system to examine ductwork and make a clean sweep, removing years of dust and grime.

• The process begins by using patented equipment, including a roto-scraper, which automatically adapts to the duct's shape and diameter while traveling through the duct, removing debris and filth before vacuuming begins.
• Next, a powerful push-pull air delivery and collection system transfers the debris from the ducting to a 16-gallon container.
• Air is filtered through a HEPA filtration system, removing 99.97 percent of the particles in the airstream. HEPA filters capture debris and keep the indoor environment clean.
• As an optional process, a sealant or coating product may be sprayed to address odor or microbial concerns.
• Filters will either be cleaned or replaced to remove odor and dirt.

For more information on duct cleaning, or to schedule an appointment, contact your local SERVPRO Franchise Professionals today.

Source: Residential Newsline Volume 17 Issue 4

Flooding Facts

9/28/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Laurel is here to help! 601-425-0119

Floods are one of the most common and widespread natural disasters in the United States. FEMA reports, in the last 8 years, all 50 states have experienced floods or flash floods. As most of us have recently experienced, nearly 20% of all flood insurance claims come from moderate-to-low risk areas. 

Here are a few Flood Facts provided by FEMA:

• Flash floods can bring walls of water from 10 to 20 feet high.
• Flooding can be caused by spring thawing (snow and frozen grounds melting in the spring), heavy rains, snow melt runoffs, flash floods, and mudflows.
• Floods are the most widespread natural disaster aside from wildfires. 
• A 2,000 square foot home undergoing 12 feet of water damage could cost more than $50,000 to repair.

Here are a few supplies you need to prepare for a flood:

• Stock up on First Aid items
• Non-perishable foods
• Three gallons of water per person for 3 days
• Battery operated radio for weather reports
• Extra batteries
• Personal hygiene necessities

About SERVPRO of Laurel

SERVPRO of Laurel specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help

Call Today – 601-425-0119

Power Outages

9/22/2021 (Permalink)

Power Outages

Extended power outages may impact the whole community and the economy. A power outage is when the electrical power goes out unexpectedly. A power outage may:

• Disrupt communications, water, and transportation.

• Close retail businesses, grocery stores, gas stations, ATMs, banks, and other services.

• Cause food spoilage and water contamination.

• Prevent use of medical devices.

PROTECT YOURSELF DURING A POWER OUTAGE:

• Keep freezers and refrigerators closed.

• Only use generators outdoors and away from windows.

• Do not use a gas stove to heat your home.

• Disconnect appliances and electronics to avoid damage from electrical surges.

• Have alternate plans for refrigerating medicines or using power-dependent medical devices.

• If safe, go to an alternate location for heat or cooling.

• Check on neighbors.

HOW TO STAY SAFE WHEN A POWER OUTAGE THREATENS: 

Prepare NOW

• Take an inventory of the items you need that rely on electricity.
• Talk to your medical provider about a power outage plan for medical devices powered by electricity and refrigerated medicines. Find out how long medication can be stored at higher temperatures and get specific guidance for any medications that are critical for life.
• Plan for batteries and other alternatives to meet your needs when the power goes out.
• Sign up for local alerts and warning systems. Monitor weather reports.
• Install carbon monoxide detectors with battery backup in central locations on every level of your home.
• Determine whether your home phone will work in a power outage and how long battery backup will last.
• Review the supplies that are available in case of a power outage. Have flashlights with extra batteries for every household member. Have enough nonperishable food and water.
• Use a thermometer in the refrigerator and freezer so that you can know the temperature when the power is restored. Throw out food if the temperature is 40 degrees or higher.
• Keep mobile phones and other electric equipment charged and gas tanks full.

https://www.ready.gov/power-outages

SERVPRO Disaster Recovery

9/20/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Disaster Recovery Team. 601.425.0119

Did you know that SERVPRO has a specialized storm team and large loss response network to provide the resources to your property when others can’t? In the event of a disaster, SERVPRO professionals have the resources to relocate crews with equipment to take care of all of our customer’s needs. SERVPRO strategically places mobilization teams across the country to travel when needed to support in recovery after large storm events such as hurricanes. Our job as water damage restoration professionals is to limit the amount of business interruption. We understand that fast mitigation is key to getting your business back up and running. SERVPRO provides the resources in the event of a large storm event to make sure that the right equipment, procedures and training are in place to ensure that the structure is dry the first time and saves you time and money.

Do you have questions about how SERVPRO of Laurel can help you prepare for a disaster? Contact us today at (601) 425-0119!

SERVPRO Disaster Recovery Team

9/20/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Disaster Recovery Team. 601.425.0119

Did you know that SERVPRO has a specialized storm team and large loss response network to provide the resources to your property when others can’t? In the event of a disaster, SERVPRO professionals have the resources to relocate crews with equipment to take care of all of our customer’s needs. SERVPRO strategically places mobilization teams across the country to travel when needed to support in recovery after large storm events such as hurricanes. Our job as water damage restoration professionals is to limit the amount of business interruption. We understand that fast mitigation is key to getting your business back up and running. SERVPRO provides the resources in the event of a large storm event to make sure that the right equipment, procedures and training are in place to ensure that the structure is dry the first time and saves you time and money.

Do you have questions about how SERVPRO of Laurel can help you prepare for a disaster? Don't wait, contact us today at (601) 425-0119!

Tips for Safety during a Tornado.

2/2/2021 (Permalink)

Tornadoes in Mississippi can be rampant this time of year because of the ever-changing weather.

Here are some tips for being weather aware:

If you are at home during a tornado:

Go to a windowless interior room on the lowest level of your house. Go to a storm cellar or basement if your house has one. If there is no basement, go to an inner hallway or a smaller room without windows.

Get away from windows.

Go to the center of the room. Stay away from corners because they tend to attract debris.

Get under a heavy piece of sturdy furniture such as a workbench or heavy table or desk and hold on to it.

If you are at work or school during a tornado:

Go to the basement or to an inside hallway at the lowest level.

Avoid places with wide-pan roof such as auditoriums, cafeterias, large hallways or shopping malls.

If you are in a car during a tornado:

Never try to drive faster than a tornado in a car or truck. Tornadoes can change direction quickly and can lift up a car or truck and toss it through the air.

Get out of the car immediately and take shelter in a nearby building.

If there is no time to get indoors, get out of the car and lie in a ditch or low-lying area away from the vehicle. Be aware of the potential for flooding.

As always, if SERVPRO of Laurel can help in any way, give us a call at 601-425-0119

Why and how to create a Business Continuity Plan.

7/8/2019 (Permalink)

Don't wait for a storm to hit to start planning. Call SERVPRO of Laurel 601-425-0119.

A wide variety of vulnerabilities in your business may lead to loss of income and customer loyalty when a disaster occurs. A business continuity plan, also referred to as an emergency response plan is a technique you may use to identify and prepare for potential problems, keeping your activities running with the least disruption possible.

5 Steps To Create a Plan

To make the process easier, the creation process is broken down into five steps. Consider each part with your business’s needs.

1. Business Impact Analysis: This is a questionnaire that allows you and your managers to assess potential emergencies and the materials required to deal with them. Preparation, distribution and evaluation of results are usually necessary elements of this first step in your business continuity plan.

2. Recovery Strategies: These are plans that allow you to analyze resource needs, the gaps between the required resources and those currently available, managerial choices of strategies to be used and action on those decisions.

3. Plan Development: This is the laying out of the actual emergency response plan, the arrangement of teams to implement recovery from the disaster, production of documentation and approval by management.

4. Training: This is the preparation of the team responsible for continuity actions.

5. Testing and Exercises: This is the creation of training and evaluation materials, which are then tried and implemented.

Value of the Plan for Your Business

An emergency response plan provides a clear, deliberate and well-thought-out way to deal with potential disasters at your business facility. Employees and management should be trained in the procedures that should make a crucial difference in the rapid recovery of your business.

Guidance in Developing Your Plan

There are online materials that provide detailed information on how to create your business continuity plan. Some of these materials are aimed at specific types of emergency services such as IT repair or commercial water damage mitigation.

Having SERVPRO of perform an ERP on your business is a great way to begin the process.

Call SERVPRO of Laurel at

(601)425-0119

Flooding Facts

7/8/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Laurel is here to help, Call (601) 425-0119.

Floods are one of the most common and widespread natural disasters in the United States. FEMA reports, in the last 8 years, all 50 states have experienced floods or flash floods. As most of us have recently experienced, nearly 20% of all flood insurance claims come from moderate-to-low risk areas. 

Here are a few Flood Facts provided by FEMA:

• Flash floods can bring walls of water from 10 to 20 feet high.
• Flooding can be caused by spring thawing (snow and frozen grounds melting in the spring), heavy rains, snow melt runoffs, flash floods, and mudflows.
• Floods are the most widespread natural disaster aside from wildfires. 
• A 2,000 square foot home undergoing 12 feet of water damage could cost more than $50,000 to repair.

Here are a few supplies you need to prepare for a flood:

• Stock up on First Aid items
• Non-perishable foods
• Three gallons of water per person for 3 days
• Battery operated radio for weather reports
• Extra batteries
• Personal hygiene necessities

About SERVPRO of Laurel

SERVPRO of Laurel specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help

Call Today – 601-425-0119

SERVPRO Disaster Recovery Team

7/8/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Disaster Recovery Team. (601)425-0119.

Did you know that SERVPRO has a specialized storm team and large loss response network to provide the resources to your property when others can’t? In the event of a disaster, SERVPRO professionals have the resources to relocate crews with equipment to take care of all of our customer’s needs. SERVPRO strategically places mobilization teams across the country to travel when needed to support in recovery after large storm events such as hurricanes. Our job as water damage restoration professionals is to limit the amount of business interruption. We understand that fast mitigation is key to getting your business back up and running. SERVPRO provides the resources in the event of a large storm event to make sure that the right equipment, procedures and training are in place to ensure that the structure is dry the first time and saves you time and money.

Do you have questions about how SERVPRO of Laurel can help you prepare for a disaster? Contact us today at (601) 425-0119!

Stay Safe From Summer Storms

7/8/2019 (Permalink)

STAY SAFE FROM SUMMER STORMS! SERVPRO of Laurel 601-425-0119

While the spring season is known for the potential to experience severe weather, the threat exists throughout the summer months as well. In fact, the potential for severe weather increases in some areas.  Hurricane season in the Atlantic begins June 1st and runs through November 30th.  The Eastern Pacific hurricane season begins May 15th also ending November 30th.

While it may be difficult to prepare for the unpredictable, there are steps you can take now to help ensure you are ready when disaster strikes.  One way to prepare your business for any type of disaster, is to establish an Emergency Ready Profile (ERP).  Contact SERVPRO of Laurel to learn more about the ERP and how it can help you.  Consider the following tips when preparing for an approaching storm.

BEFORE THE STORM:

- Build an emergency supply kit and develop a communication plan.

- Unplug any electronic equipment before the storm arrives.

- Secure outdoor objects that could blow away or cause damage.

- If you are outdoors, get inside a building, home, or hard top vehicle (not a convertible)

- Shutter windows and secure outside doors.  If shutters are not available, close window blinds, shades or curtains.

DURING THE STORM:

- Use your battery operated NOAA Weather radio for updates from local officials.

- Avoid contact with corded phones.  Cordless and cellular phones are safe to use.

-  Avoid contact with electrical equipment or cords.

- Unplug appliances and other electrical items, such as computers.  Power surges from lightning can cause serious damage.

- Avoid contact with plumbing.  Plumbing and bathroom fixtures can conduct electricity.

- Stay away from windows and doors.

AFTER THE STORM:

- Never drive through a flooded roadway.

- Stay away from storm-damaged areas to keep from putting yourself at risk.

- Stay away from downed power lines and report them immediately.

EMERGENCY SUPPY KIT:

- water (one gallon per person per day)

- Food (non-perishable 3 day supply)

- Manual can opener

- Battery operated radio, preferably a NOAA

- Flashlight and extra batteries

- First aid kit

- Whistle to signal for help

- Clothing

- Dust mask or bandanas

- Plastic sheeting, garbage bags and duct tape

- Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities

- Hygiene items

- Important document: copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account information

- Cash

- Fire extinguisher

- Matches in a waterproof container

2019 Hurricane Season

5/23/2019 (Permalink)

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is predicting a near normal 2019 Atlantic hurricane season. They’re predicting anywhere from 9-15 named storms. In the range of 4-8 becoming hurricanes and out of those 2-4 becoming major hurricanes. The NOAA states that the ongoing El Nino is expected to persist and supress the intensity of the hurricane season. In contrast there is an expected combination of warmer-than-average sea-surface temperatures in the tropical Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea, and an enhanced west African monsoon, both of which favor increased hurricane activity. 

With all of the sophisticated technology, next-generation models and satellite data; this helps decision makers and the general public the ability to take action before, during and after hurricanes. After the 2018 Hurricane season, specifically Hurricanes Florence and Michael, Residents can use this information to be better prepared for the upcoming 2019 season.

Source: www.noaa.gov/media-release/noaa-predicts-near-normal-2019-atlantic-hurricane-season

Power Outages

3/17/2019 (Permalink)

Power Outages

Extended power outages may impact the whole community and the economy. A power outage is when the electrical power goes out unexpectedly. A power outage may:

• Disrupt communications, water, and transportation.

• Close retail businesses, grocery stores, gas stations, ATMs, banks, and other services.

• Cause food spoilage and water contamination.

• Prevent use of medical devices.

PROTECT YOURSELF DURING A POWER OUTAGE:

• Keep freezers and refrigerators closed.

• Only use generators outdoors and away from windows.

• Do not use a gas stove to heat your home.

• Disconnect appliances and electronics to avoid damage from electrical surges.

• Have alternate plans for refrigerating medicines or using power-dependent medical devices.

• If safe, go to an alternate location for heat or cooling.

• Check on neighbors.

HOW TO STAY SAFE WHEN A POWER OUTAGE THREATENS: 

Prepare NOW

• Take an inventory of the items you need that rely on electricity.
• Talk to your medical provider about a power outage plan for medical devices powered by electricity and refrigerated medicines. Find out how long medication can be stored at higher temperatures and get specific guidance for any medications that are critical for life.
• Plan for batteries and other alternatives to meet your needs when the power goes out.
• Sign up for local alerts and warning systems. Monitor weather reports.
• Install carbon monoxide detectors with battery backup in central locations on every level of your home.
• Determine whether your home phone will work in a power outage and how long battery backup will last.
• Review the supplies that are available in case of a power outage. Have flashlights with extra batteries for every household member. Have enough nonperishable food and water.
• Use a thermometer in the refrigerator and freezer so that you can know the temperature when the power is restored. Throw out food if the temperature is 40 degrees or higher.
• Keep mobile phones and other electric equipment charged and gas tanks full.

https://www.ready.gov/power-outages

When Storms Hit, We Are Ready!!!

3/14/2019 (Permalink)

Water Damage Specialists

SERVPRO of Laurel 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 Jones county and the surrounding areas we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams  that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today (601) 425-0119

Why and how to create a Business Continuity Plan.

7/9/2018 (Permalink)

Don't wait for the Storm to hit to start planning. Call SERVPRO of Laurel 601-425-0119

A wide variety of vulnerabilities in your business may lead to loss of income and customer loyalty when a disaster occurs. A business continuity plan, also referred to as an emergency response plan is a technique you may use to identify and prepare for potential problems, keeping your activities running with the least disruption possible.

5 Steps To Create a Plan

To make the process easier, the creation process is broken down into five steps. Consider each part with your business’s needs.

1. Business Impact Analysis: This is a questionnaire that allows you and your managers to assess potential emergencies and the materials required to deal with them. Preparation, distribution and evaluation of results are usually necessary elements of this first step in your business continuity plan.

2. Recovery Strategies: These are plans that allow you to analyze resource needs, the gaps between the required resources and those currently available, managerial choices of strategies to be used and action on those decisions.

3. Plan Development: This is the laying out of the actual emergency response plan, the arrangement of teams to implement recovery from the disaster, production of documentation and approval by management.

4. Training: This is the preparation of the team responsible for continuity actions.

5. Testing and Exercises: This is the creation of training and evaluation materials, which are then tried and implemented.

Value of the Plan for Your Business

An emergency response plan provides a clear, deliberate and well-thought-out way to deal with potential disasters at your business facility. Employees and management should be trained in the procedures that should make a crucial difference in the rapid recovery of your business.

Guidance in Developing Your Plan

There are online materials that provide detailed information on how to create your business continuity plan. Some of these materials are aimed at specific types of emergency services such as IT repair or commercial water damage mitigation.

Having SERVPRO of perform an ERP on your business is a great way to begin the process.

Call SERVPRO of Laurel at

(601)425-0119

Flood Facts

7/9/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Laurel is here to help. Call (601)425-0119

Floods are one of the most common and widespread natural disasters in the United States. FEMA reports, in the last 8 years, all 50 states have experienced floods or flash floods. As most of us have recently experienced, nearly 20% of all flood insurance claims come from moderate-to-low risk areas. 

Here are a few Flood Facts provided by FEMA:

• Flash floods can bring walls of water from 10 to 20 feet high.
• Flooding can be caused by spring thawing (snow and frozen grounds melting in the spring), heavy rains, snow melt runoffs, flash floods, and mudflows.
• Floods are the most widespread natural disaster aside from wildfires. 
• A 2,000 square foot home undergoing 12 feet of water damage could cost more than $50,000 to repair.

Here are a few supplies you need to prepare for a flood:

• Stock up on First Aid items
• Non-perishable foods
• Three gallons of water per person for 3 days
• Battery operated radio for weather reports
• Extra batteries
• Personal hygiene necessities

About SERVPRO of Laurel

SERVPRO of Laurel specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help

Call Today – 601-425-0119

2018 Hurricane Season

7/9/2018 (Permalink)

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is predicting a near or above normal 2018 Atlantic hurricane season. They’re predicting anywhere from 10-16 named storms. In the range of 5-9 becoming hurricanes and out of those 1-4 becoming major hurricanes. The NOAA states that the possibility of a weak El Nino developing and near-average sea surface temperatures across the tropical Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea are two of the factors that are driving this outlook.

With all of the sophisticated technology, next-generation models and satellite data; this helps decision makers and the general public the ability to take action before, during and after hurricanes. After the 2017 Hurricane season, specifically Hurricane Harvey, Residents can use this information to be better prepared for the upcoming 2018 season.

Source: www.noaa.gov

SERVPRO Disaster Recovery Team

7/9/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Disaster Recovery Team 601-425-0119

Did you know that SERVPRO has a specialized storm team and large loss response network to provide the resources to your property when others can’t? In the event of a disaster, SERVPRO professionals have the resources to relocate crews with equipment to take care of all of our customer’s needs. SERVPRO strategically places mobilization teams across the country to travel when needed to support in recovery after large storm events such as hurricanes. Our job as water damage restoration professionals is to limit the amount of business interruption. We understand that fast mitigation is key to getting your business back up and running. SERVPRO provides the resources in the event of a large storm event to make sure that the right equipment, procedures and training are in place to ensure that the structure is dry the first time and saves you time and money.

Do you have questions about how SERVPRO of Laurel can help you prepare for a disaster? Contact us today at (601) 425-0119!