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How to Keep Your Holiday Decorating Fire-Safe | SERVPRO® of Beaver County
11/8/2022 (Permalink)
Should a fire issue pop-up during this holiday season, SERVPRO of Beaver County will be on call ready to assist.
The thought of the holidays is wonderful: shining lights in every room and the mouth-watering smell of freshly-baked cookies and sweets. This season is almost unbeatable, but it also brings the year’s highest risk of home fires.
In Pennsylvania, we know how snowstorms can turn our town into a winter wonderland overnight, but we also know how to have a good time during it! There are numerous activities taking place over the next few months, like the famous Murder On The Orient Express train ride.
These events can create a wonderful holiday experience, but you should take preventive measures to protect your home before you leave it alone this winter. Taking the proper precautions can keep you and your home safe while experiencing the wonder of the holidays.
Top Seasonal HazardsUnited States fire departments respond to approximately 790 structural fires a year that began due to holiday decorations.
Placing these items too close to heating sources is a major cause of the fires. Additionally, Christmas trees and candles make the list of other home fire sources.
A real tree requires lots of care, with constant watering and sweeping to prevent dead needles from piling up. Artificial trees must be certified as fire-resistant to be safe, but it’s also crucial to avoid overloading your outlets when decorating any kind of tree.
Take Preventive Measures“The stocking were hung by the chimney with care” should be more than a quick line read on family night. Remember this quote when decorating your home so that you never place an item too close to an open flame.
Candles cause approximately 20 house fires a day, so double-check that yours are not too close to other flammable items. If your home has a fireplace, it’s also important to have it inspected annually to prevent disaster.
Check that your outdoor decorations are rated for this kind of use, and hang them properly to avoid falling lights that may cause a fire outside. Check our local government’s website for any regulations on outdoor decorating so that you can follow the guidelines.
Routinely inspect your smoke detectors and install one in each bedroom and on each floor of the home. Create and practice a fire emergency plan with your household, and add SERVPRO of Beaver County to your contacts so that you can reach us fast if a fire sparks up inside.
Have smoke or fire damage in your house? Contact us today to get cleaned up fast.
How Your Business May Be Stopped By Commercial Water Damage | SERVPRO® of Beaver County
10/24/2022 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Beaver County are your local commercial restoration company. We will always be here to help and get you back in business.
Commercial water damage can be a disastrous event affecting every piece of your business. Many causes are internal, like burst pipes and a leaky roof. However, this type of damage can also happen when sewage backs up or your sprinkler system malfunctions.
Water damage can also occur through natural causes, which we understand thoroughly as Pennsylvania residents. In Beaver specifically, we experience over 140 days of precipitation annually, meaning that our local stretch of the Ohio River is always at risk of flooding.
Use these helpful ideas to help prepare yourself for the potential of a water-related disaster.
Know Your Building’s LayoutCheck out your building’s design plans and find the main water cutoff valve and the fire sprinkler system controls. Impart this information to as many people as possible so that there’s always someone who can help inside the building.
Know the Types of Water InvolvedA critical factor for determining the severity of water damage is the type of water involved. Understanding what kind of danger you’re facing will allow you to make the best decisions for how to handle it.
White water: This type of water most commonly results from plumbing problems. It’s not considered contaminated and is safe to handle yourself in small amounts.
Gray water: Sink drains and toilet tank overflows produce this type of flooding. The water is contaminated but not considered dangerous.
Black water: Sewage backups and storm flooding are common sources of highly contaminated black water. Always call in a professional to deal with this type of toxic water damage.
Take Action QuicklyYou must try to shut down the source of water fast and then begin circulating air with open windows and doors as soon as possible. After completing these steps, notify your building’s employees so everyone can avoid contact with the water.
Then begin documenting any visible damage, as this can help expedite the insurance process and give extra information to your restoration provider so they can assess the situation fully.
Remember to Be PatientThe damage you see is only one part of the total problem. Water-logged wall studs, moldy framing and warped flooring are just a few signs of hidden water damage. We may require up to a week to fully dry and clean the whole building, so be patient as we help you get back in action.
When water damage happens in your business, get SERVPRO of Beaver County on the phone right away! Our expert team has professional training with industry-leading equipment so that we can restore your property fast.
When disaster strikes your commercial property, we’ll be there to help clean up and get you back in business quickly. Reach out 24⁄7 to get started!
Why SERVPRO? Because We’re Always Within Reach | SERVPRO® of Beaver County
10/10/2022 (Permalink)
No job is too big or small. Call SERVPRO of Beaver County today to schedule your estimate.
SERVPRO is an excellent choice for restoration for many reasons, like the vast expertise we have with every kind of cleanup and repair. We take care of anything from fire to mold with certified remediation services that help protect the structure of your home.
We can also offer cleanup for biohazards or the removal of graffiti.
But to us, the most important SERVPRO quality is that we are local! Let’s learn how it really sets us apart.
3 Reasons Being Locally Owned Is a Difference-MakerIn addition to the qualities that one seeks in a service provider, being local allows us to give you excellent service every time. Here’s why:
1. We Can Respond FastWaiting to start your restoration process will mean that the damage has time to expand and create additional costs and time requirements to be fully completed.
However, partnering with SERVPRO of Beaver County can end your troubles, as we’re available 24⁄7. We always have multiple teams ready to be there day or night.
2. We’re Prepared for Local Weather ConditionsBecause we’re part of the community, we experience the same weather as you do. We prepare our resources ahead of time so that we can be ready for action when the storms are gone.
This means that we have firsthand knowledge of the weather trends here in Pennsylvania. Like how we experience over 52 inches of combined snow and rainfall each year, which increases our likelihood of suffering flooding or other water-related damage.
3. We Know Beaver County Front and BackMany restoration companies that provide service to our area aren’t actually from here, and they travel in from out of state or other regions. This means that they probably do not know their way around or understand how our area is special.
Our team knows about the community because they themselves are part of it. We know about the hard course at Harmony Ridge Golf Club and the positive impact of the local Community College of Beaver County.
We also know how the local government operates, including the regulations, which means that we can get your restoration process up and running before anyone that isn’t from here could.
An Extra BenefitKnowing all this, you can feel secure knowing that we’re prepared to assist this community through any kind of disaster.
Not only is SERVPRO locally owned and operated, but we’re backed by a national brand with years of experience. This means we can call on our neighboring locations for extra help when the disaster spreads throughout our region.
When disaster strikes your home or your business, we’re the team you can trust—located right here, close to home. Get in touch today to get started!
How to Prevent a Lightning Fire From Affecting Your Home | SERVPRO® of Beaver County
9/20/2022 (Permalink)
If you are dealing with smoke or fire damage from a recent fire, call SERVPRO of Beaver County to learn about a restoration solution for your issue.
It’s possible to prevent most manmade causes of home fires, especially if you have the right safety equipment. However, many natural causes also put you at risk, one being lightning.
There were over 70,000 damage claims made in 2020 regarding lightning strikes, and the damage can include knocked-down trees, fried electrical systems or even home fires that were started by lightning.
Over 6,000 strikes happen every minute, showing us how frequent this disaster really is and why it’s important to be prepared.
What Is Lightning?Lightning is a concentration of electrical energy that usually happens between clouds and the ground. These strikes can also occur during forest fires, volcanic eruptions and snowstorms, but “dry lightning” is also a significant risk.
Dry lightning happens without rain, and it causes a significant spike in the risk of wildfires. While the threats vary seasonally, it’s a constant risk that we must prepare for in addition to being ready for traditional lightning.
Protecting Your Home From Lightning FiresWhen a fire starts from lightning, you may not notice it immediately as the fire will start in the attic or walls. But you will probably hear the strike! The loud explosion sound, black spots on your walls or the smell of smoke are signs that you should call the fire department immediately.
A great way to prevent lightning fires is to install a lightning rod. This metal pole will take the energy from the lightning strike and direct it away from your home.
Additionally, consider adding a whole-home surge protector to ward off fires that begin from electrical surges and faulty wiring.
When Lightning Strikes NearbyLightning is also known to start wildfires easily, and while different regions have varying peak seasons, it’s crucial for everyone to prepare. Over 9,000 fires each year originate from lightning strikes, and these flames often burn faster and longer.
Remove any dead trees or vegetation from your property, and think about how a defensible zone could improve your fire protection. Additionally, add smoke detectors to every level of your home so that you have full coverage and an added warning when flames arise.
If your house is affected by fire, call SERVPRO of Beaver County to receive a quick response and excellent support. Our expert team is trained to handle every type of fire cleanup, and our industry-leading equipment will have you back in your home as soon as possible.
Have you experienced smoke or fire damage in your home? Call us today to get the restoration finished fast.
How to Stop Floodwater From Invading Your Property | SERVPRO® of Beaver County
9/7/2022 (Permalink)
Experienced water damage in your home? Call SERVPRO of Beaver County to get the restoration process started right away.
It’s crucial for everyone to prepare for flooding, regardless of where you live. Even areas that don’t see this disaster regularly can be surprised because it takes less than an inch of water to begin ruining your possessions.
You can take steps both inside and out of your home to shield against flooding, but first, you must understand the regional risks we face. Here in Beaver County, we know the hardships of water damage. The rivers and creeks that dissect our region often overflow when presented with heavy rain. This means that we face a higher likelihood of floods than most other regions, so it’s even more crucial to be prepared.
Once you know about the risks we face in our area, you can begin to prepare for them with the following steps:
<h3your-home-from-the-outside">Protecting Your Home From the Outside
Heavy rainfall can come from nowhere and cause an overflow of water to collect around your property. However, there are steps you can take to be prepared, like keeping your gutters clear and operating correctly.
You can also utilize landscaping techniques that direct water away from your home’s structure. Less expensive versions of this include rain gardens, which are a mix of various bushes, plants and small trees with root structures that can absorb high amounts of rainfall.
It may seem like a lot of work initially, but when considering the potential costs for restoration and the stress of recovering, taking these actions is a great choice. Not only will they give your home added protection, but these ideas can also improve the look of your land.
<h3protection-from-the-inside">Flood Protection From the Inside
Protecting your home from external flooding begins with the foundation of your structure. You should regularly check for any cracks and seal them immediately, and think about installing a sump pump if your basement or crawl space regularly floods.
To keep your home safe from internal flooding like failed plumbing and leaky faucets, routine maintenance is the best solution. Identify any leaks in your pipes, and repair or replace them before a major problem arises.
It’s important to prepare ahead of time because floodwater is a powerful force regardless of where it comes from. Keep any photographs or valuable documents in elevated positions inside waterproof containers, and practice an emergency plan with your family so that you’re ready for the next potential flood.
Experienced water damage in your home? Call SERVPRO today to get your restoration completed faster.
The Most Common Ways Severe Storms Can Damage Your Home | SERVPRO® of Beaver County
8/18/2022 (Permalink)
High-powered storms can bring many disasters to your doorstep. From extreme winds to heavy rains and flooding, they can all do serious damage to your home.
The type of storm and the events it causes can expose your home to multiple kinds of damage. Calculating your home’s potential level of damage is complicated and involves looking at your home’s qualities, age and the landscape surrounding it.
While it is important for everyone to be aware of storm damage, it’s especially important for us here in Pennsylvania. Flooding, storms, fire and winter storms are just a few of the most common disasters that we see in our area. You need to prepare for these events by drafting an emergency plan and learning about what risks you may see.
Look at these most common types of storm damage and how you can get ready for them:
Wind
Wind damage happens because high-speed gusts hit buildings and can rip off roof tiles or your siding. While tornadoes and hurricanes are usually to blame, even minor storms can cause wind speeds of nearly 100 mph. These kinds of winds can throw debris through windows and doors and puncture holes in your roof’s lining.
You should take time to clear your property of any debris like the ones listed above and tie down any furniture that could become dangerous during high winds.
Water
As storms cause heavy rainfall, that water can pool around your house and cause damage both during and after the storm has passed. Water can seep through your windows and doors or potentially down into your foundation and cause irreversible damage.
To reduce the amount of damage you could experience, think about using landscaping techniques that direct water away from your home’s structure. You can also choose to build a rain garden, which will collect excess rainwater and prevent a flood on your land.
Lastly, make sure your gutters are clean and that your roof is in good condition so that it can protect you from a storm.
Impact
The final major kind of storm damage is from impacts. Typically, “impact damage” is caused by a falling tree or a limb knocked down by high winds. However, anything that hits (or impacts) your home with force is considered impact damage.
The best way to avoid this is to keep your trees healthy and have any dead or dying ones removed as soon as possible.
Disasters caused by weather resulted in an excess of $145 billion in our country in 2021 alone. By following these tips and understanding the weather in your region, you can keep your house safer and prevent excessive damage from occurring.
If storm damage affects your home, call SERVPRO of Beaver County immediately so that you can get started on your restoration. Our team of experts will jump into action and have you back in your home before you know it.
When you suffer storm-related damage to your home or business, it’s important that you know who to call! Contact us today to get your storm damage restoration started faster.
How SERVPRO Can Save You From Disaster | SERVPRO® of Beaver County
8/4/2022 (Permalink)
No matter what type of disaster you face, SERVPRO of Beaver County are only a phone call away.
Because we are independently owned and operated, we can relate to the hardships you as a business owner face. There are countless things that you must account for to succeed, and an unexpected disaster could put you off track or out of business.
We would love to know exactly where a disaster will strike or how to stop it, but that isn’t a reality. However, everyone should take steps to be prepared to limit their impact on us.
We know the struggles of suffering home damage as well, but it doesn’t really matter what kind of damage takes place. Anything that requires you to take on added costs, risks and responsibilities can be a stressful situation to undertake.
So that you can have your household ready for handling disasters, you should craft an emergency plan. This process starts with taking some time and learning about the disasters that we commonly see here in Beaver County.
Here is a great website from the American Red Cross that takes data from around the country to give a general idea of the disasters we see in this country. Our state government has formed Ready Pennsylvania to help us understand the risks our communities will face. This resource will allow you to select your specific county and narrow down the top disasters so you can plan against them.
It’s likely that every homeowner and business owner will experience damage at some point. It’s always important for you to begin restoration quickly so that you can get the best results. Here is why we should be first in your mind:
Why Choose SERVPRO?We understand that no two situations are alike. Even though it’s common for damage that needs restoration to happen, every situation will be different.
To show this, over 14 million homes face significant flooding risks annually, but each home will suffer varying levels of damage.
Thankfully, we have experts who specialize in all kinds of damage so that you’re covered from anything and everything. In every case, we specialize assistance based on the unique factors that affect you.
We are available 24 hours a day. The most important thing for you to remember about restoration is that acting fast is critical. Not only will it get you back in your home or business quicker, but it can also prevent the damage from becoming too severe.
To show how important this is, think of water getting inside your house. It will immediately start damaging your walls, flooring, and fabrics. If water is allowed to stay for long periods, it can sprout loads of mold that can weaken your home’s structure. This is why we stay ready 24⁄7 to be there when you need us most.
We provide more than simply damage restoration. As well as restoring the physical damage to your home, we can help you with every part of the process.
Our team will help you pack items to prevent more losses, and we can speak with your insurance agency and help you get the most value from the claims. We always aim to give you the best assistance possible while making this stressful process smoother.
When you face any kind of damage, you should know that your experts at SERVPRO of Beaver County are here for you! We have years of restoration experience handling every kind of disaster.
When you suffer damage to your home or business, it’s important that you know who to call! Contact us today to get restoration started faster.
How to Keep Your Backyard Fire Safe & Contained | SERVPRO® of Beaver County
7/21/2022 (Permalink)
If you have experienced fire or smoke damage, contact SERVPRO of Beaver County.
A backyard fire is one of the great enjoyments of being a homeowner. Sitting around the flames while telling stories and eating good food is just one of the ways you can use it.
Many people use fires for cooking meals, keeping bugs away and obviously as a way of burning excess debris. However, these fires that seem harmless are actually a great danger to the surrounding region.
The National Park Service reports that humans are responsible for nearly 85% of wildfires.
In Pennsylvania, we see a high risk of wildfires, due to the high heat in the warmer months combined with our thick areas of forests and foliage. This means that we need to be extra cautious when lighting fires outdoors, otherwise we could start the next outdoor disaster.
This reality doesn’t mean that we can’t enjoy a fire at home or that we shouldn’t burn dead leaves. It tells us that we all should take the proper safety measures and never take additional risks when attempting to have a controlled fire on our own property.
Recreational Fire HazardsAs we mentioned previously, every kind of fire comes with risks, but fireworks and campfires are two of the leading causes of wildfires. On average, grills start 8,800 home fires each year, typically caused by improper use. It’s important to check the propane or coals before leaving the grill unattended after use.
When constructing a campfire it’s important to pick a spot with ample space around it so that nothing else catches on fire. Ensure at least a 30-foot buffer between any structure or vehicle, and only use wood to keep the fire going so that you can reduce the risk of a spread.
Additionally, if you have a backyard fire pit, it’s important to treat this equipment with the same caution as any other fire. This includes keeping it away from any overhangs and only placing it on rocks or dirt.
Many people choose to get rid of their household or construction waste with fire, but you should never do this—only burn approved firewood to reduce your personal risk.
Fireworks are legal in Pennsylvania, but this doesn’t mean you should carelessly launch these dangerous explosives. Make sure that your fireworks are only being launched on your own private property, and watch where the debris falls so that you can reduce the risk of an outdoor fire.
Other Outdoor Fire HazardsAlthough fires can be risky, they can still be useful in our area. We see a lot of falling leaves during the fall, and this can significantly increase the chance of wildfires when the buildup becomes too much.
Because of this, burning your debris might be the most effective way to keep your property clean and safe from fires.
Our local government has some complex ordinances set up to prevent wildfires from occurring, which can make it difficult to legally burn your debris. Here is a page from the Beaver County Fire Department that can help you perform an outdoor burn without breaking the law or putting our region at risk.
Along with clearing dead debris from your property, landscaping your yard to stop the spread of flames can greatly reduce the chance of suffering wildfire damage near your home. Most importantly, knowing what to burn and adhering to the safety guidelines can help you stay safe with fires.
Many people keep their extra gasoline or oil stored in the garage or shed. However, this can actually put your home at a greater risk of suffering a fire. Make sure that you only store these dangerous materials in proper containers with safety locks that guard against leakage or curious children and animals.
It’s a smart idea to check your weather updates for any reason not to have a fire. High winds and dry conditions mean that your fire has a greater chance of spreading beyond your control, and you should think about postponing it.
If you do experience fire damage, call SERVPRO of Beaver County right away. We have 24⁄7 availability with a quick response to any kind of disaster. We always attempt to restore as much of your home as possible as soon as we possibly can.
Burn safely outdoors. And save some chocolate for us! If you have experienced fire or smoke damage, contact us today to get restoration started faster.
Knowing These Storm Alerts Could Help You Stay Safer | SERVPRO® of Beaver County
7/12/2022 (Permalink)
Our national alert system uses 42 different kinds of weather alerts, spread out between seven categories that cover all types of weather events. This is too much information for most people to take in, especially when you’re sheltering from a severe storm.
It’s important to know what the various kinds of alerts for our area mean, as it will allow you to prepare for those most. Additionally, you can take steps that will help prevent damage to your home and property.
It is important to have a basic understanding of all weather events, but it’s essential for you to know what kind of weather hits us in Pennsylvania most often.
How Alerts Are IssuedMost Americans are not aware of how the alert system works at all, but many know that weather forecasts are only predictions. The rest of the equation, the severity, location and size of storms are all complex and require in-depth analysis to discover.
The National Weather Service handles these tasks for us, including forecasting and issuing all alerts or warnings. Our country is split into six sections, each covered by its own regional headquarters, along with hundreds of local offices. Here in Beaver County, we receive our weather information from the Eastern Regional headquarters.
The NWS employs the assistance of countless meteorologists and other specialists who collect and analyze data to create forecasts. Some of their methods include satellite imaging and thermal and seismic sensors, but the instruments used vary depending on the type of weather. The goal is always to perform a thorough analysis and provide quality predictions for us here in the United States.
The Most Important Alerts to UnderstandThe first principle that everyone should know is the meaning of a “watch” and a “warning.” You will see these words used in almost every weather event, like floods, tornadoes, hurricanes and thunderstorms.
A watch is when a storm is coming close to your area, and it has the potential to be dangerous for people and property. These alerts will often cover large swaths of land, in an attempt to keep everyone aware of what’s happening around them.
A warning means that danger will be here very soon, and you must take immediate action to stay safe from it. These alerts will only cover a city or county and are highly specialized so that everyone in the path of danger can stay safe.
You should also make sure to read up on what kind of weather we see here in Pennsylvania, and in Beaver County specifically. We see an average of 179 days of precipitation each year, so nearly half of the year is stormy.
This indicates that water damage and common storm damage are two of the things we should be preparing for.
Protecting Your Home During a StormKnowing how to decipher weather alerts is the best way for you to plan out your course of action for surviving the storm. There are some steps that you can take to keep your home more protected as well.
Clearing your gutters and securing loose items outside are easy things that can make your home tougher against a disaster. Loose items will often be thrown into the walls or roof of the home, opening it up to further damage.
Once the storm has passed, take plenty of photos if your home is damaged. Afterward, give SERVPRO of Beaver County a call, because we’re here 24⁄7 for any and all cleanup and restoration needs.
Again, as you learn more about the weather common in our region, the more prepared you can be for it. Having knowledge of the alerts used and staying in touch with your local officials are additional ways to stay safe from extreme weather.
Experienced storm damage to your home or property? Contact us today for a quick response!
Commercial Damage & How Your Business Could Be Affected | SERVPRO® of Beaver County
6/17/2022 (Permalink)
In the United States, our businesses are the lifeblood on which our country is built. All of us interact with multiple businesses each and every day.
Business owners have to manage more than simply the profit and loss of their company—they also have to focus on all of the tiny details that could potentially affect their business. So when disasters happen, it can be a disastrous burden for a business to bear.
We’ve witnessed a steady increase in natural disaster damage as time goes on. The NCEI reported that over the last five years in the United States, there was approximately $153 billion worth of damage annually, which is a meaningful jump from the last period of data.
Here in Beaver County, severe storms happen year-round. We see the extreme winter weather and the high-intensity events that come during the warmer months as well. This storm just last year was centered in Pittsburgh but was caused substantial damage all the way here in Beaver County.
Thankfully, we’ve collected some important information on the most common causes of commercial damage around the country, and we hope that it can help you better prepare your business for a disaster.
Water DamageExcessive levels of water and moisture are major threats to business across the United States. Water damage is sometimes caused by nature and other times it can be due to manmade causes and simple appliance malfunction.
One of the causes of water damage is flooding. Seeping through unsealed areas of the exterior, water can affect the foundation. Consider utilizing landscaping to guide water away from the building.
Water damage is not limited to fast-acting waves, however. It can damage your property over extended periods due to seemingly minor leaks. You should routinely inspect your facility’s plumbing and walls to ensure that you don’t have damage taking place over time and to stay ahead of the problem.
Storm DamageIn the event of a storm, an entire area’s businesses and homes are affected. Even a less severe storm can take out power or send branches and rocks flying to damage your business.
Typically, storms carry winds that range from 10 to 45 mph, but severe storms like those that we see in the warmer months can produce winds of over 100 mph. Storms like these can tear trees out of the ground and throw damaging debris around like nothing.
Installing storm-grade window and door covers can limit the damage a storm can bring, but these measures often take extensive time and funding to complete.
Before resorting to the extremes, you can perform simple tasks like checking your window and door seals and performing regular inspections of the property that help prevent damage from going unaddressed.
Additionally, it’s a good idea to clear your property of any loose items and dead trees to avoid the chance of them causing damage in the event of a storm.
Know Who to CallWhile it may seem cumbersome at first, taking the steps to protect and prevent storm and water damage is worth it in the long run.
Closing down to make repairs is not something any business owner wants to do. Thankfully, we have 24⁄7 availability, and our experts quickly respond to ensure that the proper restoration plan is enacted.
If you have experienced damage to your business or want to learn more about our commercial damage restoration services, contact us today. We’re here to act fast, 24⁄7.
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