How to Avoid a Disaster During a Power Outage

9/30/2022 (Permalink)

Use these best practices during power outages!

It’s important to prepare for and protect your homes, businesses, and families during power outages in the winter months as many hazards can go unnoticed.

Candles left unattended can potentially become destructive by creating structural fires. The safer choice would be using flashlights or other battery-operated lighting options that avoid the presence of an open flame. Be sure to keep extra batteries on hand. If candles are your only option, it is vital to never leave them unattended and you place the candle in a fireproof candleholder away from any flammable materials and/or drafts.

Fire hazards are not the only disaster lurking during power outages. Carbon Monoxide poisoning from indoor grills or generators are also extremely dangerous. If these appliances are used in enclosed areas including homes, garages or sheds, the outcome could be lethal. Carbon Monoxide gas can go unnoticed as it cannot be seen, smelled, nor tasted. A person may not realize they are being poisoned until it’s too late. It is essential to use these items exclusively outside in a well-ventilated area and you operate them according to manufacturer’s instructions.

If you have experienced any fire, soot or property damage to your home or business, rest assured our experienced technicians and customer services representatives are here to help 24/7. Call SERVPRO of Rancho Cordova at 916.251.7963.

Where is that Water coming from?

9/28/2022 (Permalink)

When hard rainfall hits, make it a habit to check on spaces in your home or place of business that may have potential for water damage.  This recommended practice can undoubtedly save you time, money, and the headache of uncontrollable damages down the line.

Once discovered, Water Intrusion can enter through:

• Roofs
• Cracks on the Exterior of your Building
• Window Sills
• The Ground Level or Foundation

After Discovery, it’s crucial to determine the Source, and repair it right away.  Waiting on this vital step causes severity in fixing it. Having the Source located, identified, and repaired promptly during the current storm will work in your favor that your water intrusion problem is no more.  

If you would like more information on hiring a team experienced in Water Damage Restoration call SERVPRO of Rancho Cordova at 916.251.7963. We are your 24/7 Emergency Service Providers.

3 Ways You Can Prepare for Winter Storms

1/25/2022 (Permalink)

Planning and preparing ahead of time can prevent unwanted winter storm disasters.

Unfortunately, property owners don’t get to choose when a storm moves into the area — but we can be ready for when it does. SERVPRO of Rancho Cordova specializes in fast, affordable, and efficient storm damage restoration services. Below, we've compiled a few tips to help reduce and prevent severe storm damage from impacting your property.

1. Regularly Inspect Your Roof

Checking whether any shingles have blown off your roof or if there are any minor leaks and repairing such problems immediately will help you avoid serious structural damages when extreme weather sets in. If you find your home has suffered extensive storm damage, it may be necessary to invest in the services of a water damage restoration professional like the experts from SERVPRO due to rain leaking through the roof.

2. Trim Dead Wood

No matter what time of the year, hard winds or heavy rain and snowfall can easily snap dead limbs, branches, or trees surrounding your home and cause storm damages. The professional technicians from SERVPRO recommend regularly trimming dead wood and branches on your property. Doing so will help keep you safe and minimize storm damage to your home should a storm set in.

3. Consider Storm Windows

One way to help minimize the need for storm damage restoration is by investing in high-quality storm windows or hurricane shutters. These investments will help prevent leaks and other storm damage by protecting the glass of your windows and adding an extra layer to protect against wind and rain.

For more tips on how to avoid the need for costly storm damage restoration services, contact the professionals from SERVPRO of Rancho Cordova at 916.251.7963.

Winter Storm Types

1/25/2022 (Permalink)

While most winter storms bring precipitation, there are differences in how they affect the environment around us and how they can damage our home or business. As we head deeper into the winter months it is a necessity to be prepared to minimize the chance of any possible damage. As a company, it is our hope to help others steer clear of any disaster before it has a chance to present itself. Here are some winter storm types, and what to prepare for.

Rainstorm

 A rainstorm has a heavy precipitation downpour. While it may not carry freezing elements, the heavy rain can problems. The larger damages would be floods and landslides that could potentially seriously damage homes or businesses in its vicinity. On an individual level, there are ways to protect your home or business from a rainstorm. 

• Check your sealant.
• The sealant around the windows in your home can allow for water to enter I they are cracked. Over time, this can allow for mold to grow.
• Clear your gutters.
• Having clear gutters moves the water away from your roof and minimizes the potential for water leaking into your roof.
• Maintain good drainage.
• Good drainage will allow for quickly rising water to be dispersed away from your home.

Ice Storm

An ice storm carries heavy precipitation with freezing temperatures. This combination results in an accumulation of ice on everything the precipitation touches. While it may not result in flooding like a rainstorm, an ice storm still carries environmental dangers. Here are some ways to help avoid ice storm damage

• Frozen pipes.
• Insulating exposed pipes will help to keep them from freezing. Even the smallest amount of insulation can help to keep the temperature warm enough not to freeze
• Let your faucets drip to keep a flow through your pipes. 
• Trim overgrown and damaged trees.
• When ice accumulates on trees, it weighs them down significantly. Dead branches, specifically branches that hang over your home or business should be removed. 

Call the Professionals for Water Damages caused by Storms!

12/18/2021 (Permalink)

The longer you wait to start the Drying Process the longer it will take to get your Home or Business Back Together!

Did your Home or Business get affected by a Storm?

Don't wait to call in the Professionals if you had Water Damage caused by Heavy Rain Falls or Flooding.  The longer you wait to start the Drying Process the more severe damages can start and the more expensive it can get. 

Contact SERVPRO of Rancho Cordova we specialize in the Cleaning and Drying to all Water Damages.  Don't wait to get your Home or Business back to normal.  Don't wait for the Water Damage to turn to Mold Damage! 

Whether your Water Damage is caused by Storms, Supply Line Failures or Sewage Overflows, call the professionals right away!  

Don't wait any longer!  Call SERVPRO of Rancho Cordova at 916-251-7963

Standing Water in a Crawl Space!

12/16/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Rancho Cordova performs water extraction, cleaning, sanitizing, and drying to crawl spaces!

Do you notice an odor or a musty smell permeating through your home, but can't find any causes or damages inside the home? Was there a big rain fall that passed by recently?  You may have standing water in your crawl space!

Water can get into the crawl space many ways.  Usually by a broken pipelines from under the kitchen or bathroom areas; however, water can also get in crawl spaces from rain and flooding outside! 

Sometimes we don't realize when we change the outside landscape in the front or back yards that water can then be accidentally deferred into the crawl space.  Not knowing there's standing water for a long period of time can then produce an odor or a musty smell and other damages.

During the rainy days it's best to check your crawl space to make sure no water is building up!

Call SERVPRO of Rancho Cordova at 916-251-7963 if you discover standing water in your crawl space or for more information!

Storm Emergency Restoration

10/29/2021 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Rancho Cordova we know what a difficult time this is for you and your family after a storm destroys your home. That is why we will do everything possible to get your property or business back to normal quickly. Our team has the experience to handle all kinds of storm cleanup, and our commitment to your total satisfaction means you can expect impressive results.

Getting your life back in order after a devastating storm takes time. From property repairs to storm debris cleanup, the process can be frustrating, physically taxing, and time-consuming. But we can help. At SERVPRO of Rancho Cordova we assist property owners with cleanup after damaging storms immediately. We are here to help you in your time of need. 

We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call SERVPRO of Rancho Cordova at 916.251.7963 we can always make it "Like it never even happened."

Call on SERVPRO to help with clean up from water damage

10/1/2021 (Permalink)

No matter the source of the water damage, it can be devastating. If your residential property exposed to water damage, it should be dealt with quickly and efficiently to prevent further harm. When water gets loose in your house, it can cause many types of structural damage and can ruin carpets, furniture, flooring and more. Water can also give rise to the development and spread of potentially toxic molds. Mold occurs naturally in all home environments, but the trick is not to let your house get moist which would help the mold to grow. When you do find that water has found a way into your home, a call SERVPRO of Rancho Cordova to help you avoid the unwanted aftereffects of water damage.

Our process begins with the arrival of our team of professionals. The technicians will use a wide range of equipment to begin the water extraction process including powerful pumps and wet-vacs to help off-set possible secondary water damage. Dehumidifiers and air-movers will be placed to begin the drying process.

Although water damage can be a taxing reality to deal with, it is helpful to know there are people you can call to prevent stress for you and preserve the structural integrity of your home. To ensure that you react to the results of water damage effectively, it is important that you call professionals who can handle the remediation and restoration processes with skill and speed. The team to trust is SERVPRO of Rancho Cordova. We will work with a sense of urgency to restore your structure and property to its previous condition in the quickest time possible.

FLOOD DAMAGE CAN OCCUR ANYWHERE

9/30/2021 (Permalink)

Floods are a common and widespread natural disaster, often resulting from a storm damaging your area. Regardless of where you’re located.

It is important to remain mindful of the following safety tips:

• Avoid floodwaters if possible. Even 6 inches of quickly moving water can sweep you off your feet. If you are caught in an area where the water reaches above your ankles, find another path, or walk another way.
• The same rules apply when driving. If you reach a flooded road, find a way around, or follow the directions of safety personnel. Many vehicles can be carried away by as little as 2 feet of moving water. In extreme flooding, consider leaving your vehicle to find higher ground if rising waters do not subside.
• Be cautious of consuming or bathing in water found outside. Disease can be carried by contaminated floodwaters resulting in prolonged sickness.

Floods have the potential to cause extensive damage to property when not treated quickly, and cleanup can be an overwhelming task. SERVPRO of Rancho Cordova has the experience and knowledge to assist you when a flood strikes your home or business. We’re here 24/7 to help. Call SERVPRO of Rancho Cordova at 916.251.7963.

Problems Caused by Storms

1/27/2021 (Permalink)

Strong winds and strong rainwater can do the most damage to the interior and exterior of your home, which can be devastating. After your home is damaged by wind or other natural elements, the storm is not necessarily over, in fact it might be just the beginning.

Common types of damage after a storm include roof, window, and structural damage as well as exterior damage. You have seen it in the news. Extreme and some not so extreme weather events are leaving their mark on homes and properties across America. Storm and water damage affect not only the structure of your home but also your belongings. SERVPRO of Rancho Cordova understands that your home is more than a structure, your family’s furniture, clothing, keepsakes, and other belongings help transform a house into a home. Immediate action is needed, and you need the company with storm damage experience.

SERVPRO of Rancho Cordova professionals have the credentials, expertise, and the resources to handle any size disaster and can respond immediately to storm and flooding conditions. SERVPRO of Rancho Cordova has the equipment to quickly restore your property to pre-water damage condition. We use a scientific approach to water removal and water cleanup that emphasizes monitoring and documenting the drying process from beginning to end.

When an emergency arises in your home or business, give SERVPRO of Rancho Cordova a call at 916-251-7963.

Calm Before and During the Storm

1/27/2021 (Permalink)

Storms are unpredictable. In northern California storms are caused by heavy rain and can lead to flooding that could devastate your home or business. Water damage can be undetectable to the naked eye since water can spread quickly and deteriorate walls, floors, or upholstery which could eventually become mold since they thrive in dark moist environments.

During our stormy and wet season, SERVPRO of Rancho Cordova has your back with the remediation of mold or removal of water through our highly trained technicians and our advanced equipment.

If you know someone or are you need our services for restoring damaged buildings, please feel free to contact us at any time. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call SERVPRO of Rancho Cordova at 916-251-7963.

Are You Prepared for a Thunderstorm?

12/22/2020 (Permalink)

Are You Prepared for a Thunderstorm? 

In the past we have experienced large thunder and lightning storms. It is important to be prepared and have a plan in place. Talk with your family and create an emergency plan for thunderstorms, lightning, floods, and heavy winds. Think about an emergency shelter and evacuation plan. Below we have a few suggestions to make sure you and your family are ready for whatever happens. 

Protect your electronics

Your electronics can get fried if they are not properly protected. Plug electronics into a surge protector to avoid damage during a storm. 

Prepare for power outages

Have battery-operated flashlights and lanterns in easy to get to places. Check on these items from time to time to make sure the batteries still work, replace them if necessary. Also, think about keeping the refrigerator and freezer doors shut to keep food from spoiling. Call your local power company to inform them of the outage and to get information regarding when the power should be restored. 

Stay away from power lines

Do not go near power lines should they fall to the ground; they can be very hazardous. Call 911 if you see downed power lines. 

Go inside when you hear thunder

If you hear thunder, it is likely that lightning is also occurring. Lightning can be dangerous, so make sure to go inside when thunder occurs. 

Keep an emergency kit ready

Consider putting together a kit of things you may want to have on hand during a storm. Items you may want to include would be water, non-perishable food, flashlights, blankets, extra batteries, a radio, and a first aid kit. If an emergency does strike your home during a thunderstorm, SERVPRO of Rancho Cordova is ready to help get your life back to normal. Call us and we’ll be there for you! 916-251-7963.

SERVPRO is faster to any size disaster because we know what an impact quick action has during a property disaster recovery.

12/21/2020 (Permalink)

When rain and wind comes to local communities causing fallen trees, damages to roofs and flooding to basements, our local SERVPRO team of property restoration specialists is ready to help. We have years of experience handling disaster cleanup and mitigation, we know how important it is to be prepared, our SERVPRO teams are ready and always prepared to handle any size property disaster. Contacting SERVPRO of Rancho Cordova for immediate service after you experience a flood or water damage can be the difference between a quick cleanup and mitigation or more costly and intrusive restoration, construction, and mold remediation services. Our Emergency Service Team technicians are available 24-7 with to help cleanup and repair your storm and flood property damage. Our priority is providing quick and effective service and solutions to restore your property and belongings, “Like it never even happened.”
It’s critical to take quick action and call our SERVPRO team to begin taking steps to stop the damage from becoming an even bigger disaster. Our professionals first assess the severity of the situation and determine the full extent of the storm, flooding, or additional water damage. Restoring your home or business quickly, takes specialized equipment and highly skilled IICRC professionals. Our team closely inspects the damaged areas; measuring the moisture content, humidity, and temperature to assess the full extent of the damage. They provide a step-by-step solution to restore and repair your property and contents to help minimize additional damages.

Our SERVPRO Team has the experience and resources to handle your storm property damage quickly and professionally. We know what comes next after the storm and we are prepared 24-7 with Emergency help when you need us! Call us today at 916-251-7963.

3 Important Flood Safety Tips

11/2/2020 (Permalink)

When considering flood safety, it is a good idea to stay inside, as driving can be dangerous

Flood Safety Tips

When there is severe weather, it is important to stay safe. If you wait until an emergency occurs, it may be too late, so you should make sure that you are prepared beforehand. Here is some flood safety advice that you should keep in mind when it is storming or flooding.

1. Make an Emergency Kit

If you know that there may be a storm in the area, you should gather a few things in case it becomes an emergency. It is possible that the power may go out, so always keep a flashlight and extra batteries in your kit. A radio can be helpful as well, so you can keep track of the weather. Always include canned foods and bottled water and store these in a safe location.

2. Avoid Flood Waters

When considering flood safety, it is a good idea to stay inside, as driving can be dangerous. If your home has more than one level, you should stay on the upper floors in case the waters enter the house. These waters are considered Category 3 or black water which means they are highly contaminated. You should avoid coming into contact with them and never consume any food or beverages that have been in the water.

3. Relocate if Necessary

While one of the most important safety tips is to avoid driving on a flooded road, there are some cases when you may need to evacuate your home. Ideally, this would be done before the streets become unsafe for travel. Keep updated with the news to determine if this is something that you will need to do.

During a storm, flood safety is an important thing to consider. Use these tips to ensure that you and your family are prepared for any emergencies. If your home is damaged during the disaster, contact an emergency restoration service to perform mitigation and repairs.

Did you know Heavy Rains can cause Sewer Backups in your Home or Business?

10/2/2020 (Permalink)

Storms bring heavy rains and heavy rains can bring floods.  Floods are known for causing extensive water damage to homes and businesses.  Even if the flooding area is away from your property it can possibly cause a sewage backup inside your home or place of business.

When the public drain system becomes overburdened with water and exceeds its boundaries the combined sewer system becomes overwhelmed and starts to stop the flow of water which then causes water and sewage to reverse its flow of direction.  When this happens the sewage and water starts to back up in toilets, sinks, showers, bathtubs and floor drains.  That sewage and water will spread beyond its limits inside homes and businesses.

Prepare for Fall Rain Storms

10/1/2020 (Permalink)

As the Rancho Cordova area approaches winter weather, it’s important to be aware of the flood and storm risks that could affect your home or business. If you suspect that your home or flood could be exposed to high levels of water due to storms, here are some tips to prepare your property to minimize damage.

First, ensure that crucial utilities are elevated to avoid water damage. This would include furnaces, water heaters, and electric panels.

If necessary, install “check valves” in sewer traps to prevent flood water from backing up into the drains of your home or business.

Seal walls in basements with waterproofing compounds to help avoid seepage. 

If water does flood your home or business during a storm, disconnect electrical appliances if it is safe, and do not touch electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water.

If water enters your home or business, make sure to call SERVPRO of Rancho Cordova as soon as possible to prevent secondary damage. As experts in water damage, we can assist you in putting your life back together after storm damage.

916-251-7963

Storm & Wind Damage

1/28/2020 (Permalink)

There are many areas of the United States that have experienced heavy winds and storms this season and the strong powerful winds can cause significant damage to a home.  Wind damage and water damage are the most common results of a heavy storm and it is important to contact SERVPRO as soon as the storm is over to help limit and repair the damage.  Wind damage can happen to your home directly from the strong wind or indirectly from the wind blowing debris into your house.  These wind damage facts will help you better understand the potential for wind damage and how to prevent it.

Wind Type Varies by Storm and Causes Different Degrees of Wind Damage

Thunderstorms are the most common source of wind and storm damage but winds from hurricanes or tornadoes are stronger and can cause more severe damage.  It is important to know when a storm is approaching your area and what type of storm it is so you know the potential and level of damage to expect.  Thunderstorms are responsible for over half of all wind damage cases in the U.S. but the storm damage repair may be more costly for hurricane or tornado wind damage.

Characteristics of the Wind Affect the Wind Damage

The wind has many characteristics that differ depending on the situation.  Some characteristics to take into account include speed, direction, and duration of the gusts and recognizing them can help you protect your home and property effectively from wind damage.  Recognizing the characteristics of the wind can also help you determine how much potential damage to expect.

Preventing Wind and Storm Damage

Most wind damage is caused by flying debris either from plants or other structures and objects that are not secured.  If a storm is approaching your area, make sure any potential debris around your home such as patio furniture, toys, garbage cans, and other objects are either secured or brought inside.  Your doors and windows should also be secured to help minimize the potential storm damage to the home.

Wind and Storm Damage Repair Costs

Wind damage can cause a range of destruction to your property from broken windows and fallen tree branches to more severe damage to the roof, garage, or car.  Billions of dollars are spent on wind damage repair and storm damage restoration each year and understanding the nature of wind damage can help you limit the amount of damage to your home and save on restoration and repair costs. 

If your home sustains wind damage during a storm, make sure to call SERVPRO of Rancho Cordova immediately.  Our qualified technicians can provide effective wind damage and storm damage repair. Call us today: (916) 251-7963

3 Circumstances that Require a Flood Cut

1/28/2020 (Permalink)

When flooding affects your home, having a professional cleanup and restoration company come to inspect and repair the damage can be an important step in preventing further problems and beginning the cleanup process. Flood technicians may perform a variety of repairs to restore your home, including a flood cut, which requires cutting out sections of drywall about a foot above the flood line to inspect the wall behind it. While this process is not always necessary, there are a few circumstances that may require it after a flood occurs.

1. Black Water Floods

When outdoor flooding invades your home from overflowing streams or rivers, it may contain sewage, chemicals or dead animal carcasses. This water can be considerably contaminated and is known as black water. A flood cut is usually necessary when this type of flooding occurs because your home’s drywall and any insulation behind it may be affected by the dirty water and may need replacing.

2. Wet Insulation

Flood technicians may perform a flood cut and tear out sections of drywall if they believe any insulation behind your home’s walls has water damage. Because insulation cannot be properly dried, a flood cut may be needed to remove any wet material. Once the interior wall is cleaned and dried, new insulation can be installed.

3. Mold Growth

After flooding, mold can begin to grow behind interior walls and spread quickly if it is not addressed. Flood technicians may perform a flood cut to check for mold and treat the area if any is found. Because mold does not need sunlight to grow, it can spread from interior walls to other areas and cause an unpleasant odor in your home. A flood cut can prevent this and keep mold at bay.

Flooding in your home can cause a variety of problems in your home long after the waters recede. Having flood cuts performed may resolve these issues and prevent costly repairs later on. Give SERVPRO of Rancho Cordova a call, (916) 251-7963

Severe Rainstorms in the Winter and Spring

12/23/2019 (Permalink)

Here are some tips and advice of what to do before a severe storm. This is very helpful for the family to be prepared. I know outside it does not seem like much of a winter for our part of the country but we have had instances where we do need the info.

• Make a Family Communications Plan. Your family may not be together when disaster strikes, so it is important to know how you will contact one another, how you will get back together and what you will do in case of an emergency.
• Make an emergency kit for at least three days of self-sufficiency.
• Keep space heater safety in mind: Use electric space heaters with automatic shut-off switches and non-glowing elements. Remember to keep all heat sources at least three feet away from furniture and drapes.
• Prepare your home:
  • Make sure your home is well insulated and that you have weather stripping around your doors and window sills to keep the warm air inside.
  • Make sure you have a working carbon monoxide detector.
  • Keep fire extinguishers on hand, and make sure everyone in your house knows how to use them. House fires pose an additional risk, as more people turn to alternate heating sources without taking the necessary safety precautions.
  • Learn how to shut off water valves (in case a pipe bursts).
  • Insulate your home by installing storm windows or covering windows with plastic from the inside to keep cold air out.
• Hire a contractor to check the structural ability of the roof to sustain unusually heavy weight from the accumulation of water, if drains on flat roofs do not work.
  • If you have a wood burning fireplace, consider storing wood to keep you warm if winter weather knocks out your heat. Also, make sure you have your chimney cleaned and inspected every year.
  • Have at least one of the following heat sources in case the power goes out:
    • Extra blankets, sleeping bags, and warm winter coats
  • Prepare your vehicle:
    • Keep an extra emergency kit specifically created for your car. In addition to the basic essentials, consider adding a portable cell phone charger, extra blanket, and jumper cables.
  • Make sure you have a cell phone with an emergency charging option (car, solar, hand crank, etc.) in case of a power failure.
  • People who depend on electricity to operate medical equipment should have alternate arrangements in place in case power is out for an extended period of time.
  • Plan to check on elderly/disabled relatives and neighbors.
  • Plan to bring pets inside.
  • Know where the manual release lever of your electric garage door opener is located and how to operate it in case you lose power.
  • Fill a gallon container with water and place them in the freezer to help keep food cold.

Signs of Storm Damage

12/23/2019 (Permalink)

1. Roof:Look for shingles that have discoloration, tearing, or even holes in them. These can all be signs that your roof has been damaged. Another sign is if there are leaks in your roof or your ceiling.
2. Gutters:After a hail storm, looking for dents or dings can also give you a better picture of what the storm did to the rest of your home. Your gutters can also give you insight to whether you have roof damage. Check to see if there are granules from the asphalt shingles in your gutter.
3. Windows:Look at each of the windows at your homes and note any signs of shattered or broken windows and frame damage. This is especially important after a hail storm or a strong wind storm.
4. Exterior:Not only is it important to look at the siding of your home to check for damage, it is also important that you check any appliances. Inspect your AC/HCAC unit as well as items such as a barbeque grill.

After your inspection, if you notice any signs of storm damage follow up by checking the area for signs of mold, mildew, pests or other secondary damage. If damage has occurred have it repaired immediately. Call SERVPRO of Rancho Cordova at (916) 251-7963 for any restoration or repair needs you may have.

Are you ready for Severe Weather?

10/16/2019 (Permalink)

Severe weather is unpredictable and SERVPRO of Rancho Cordova wants you to be safe no matter the season! Below are some severe weather readiness tips to help guide you, no matter what type of disaster you may encounter.

Weather Radios: Weather radios are the most reliable way to receive notifications of severe weather in your area. Although cellular phones, weather apps, social media as well as wireless emergency alerts (WEA’s) are what the majority of us depend on to keep informed, the truth is those devices can have their limitation during severe weather and can be interrupted. Mobile devices rely on towers and those towers can be damaged and cease to function during sever weather. A weather radio, WITH CHARGED BATTERIES is the most reliable way to be informed of severe weather. Be sure to properly program your weather radio so you only receive the alerts you want for the counties you want.

Emergency Supply Kit: Having an emergency kit can be a life saver. Most emergency management agencies recommend supplies for up to three days. The following is a list you can use as a guideline:

• Water – 1 gallon per person per day
• Food – non-perishable
• Manual can opener
• Battery operated radio, preferably a weather radio
• Flashlight
• Extra batteries for radio and flashlight
• First Aid kit
• Whistle to signal help
• Clothing, blankets
• Dust mask or bandannas
• Plastic sheeting, garbage bags, and duct tape
• Wrench or other tools to shit off utilities
• Hygiene items
• Important documents. (Copy of insurance policy, bank account info, identification, etc.)
• Fire extinguisher
• Matches in waterproof case
• Cash

 Make family plan: Make sure all members in the household are aware where they are to go in the event of severe weather. If for some reason the family is separated in the event of a severe storm, have a meeting place established as to aid in finding each other amidst devastation.

Important things to know about Black Water

10/9/2019 (Permalink)

Immediately after experiencing life-altering flooding in the greater Rancho Cordova area the first thing you probably want to do is start dealing with the water damage from the flood. Before diving in to the problem it is important to know about the associated dangers of black water. 

What is this water and why should it be avoided? 

Black water is liquid presumed to have multiple contaminants. It could contain: 

• Fecal matter 
• Urine 
• Used toilet paper 

Sewage systems frequently become compromised and leak after water damage, they can pose health threats to those who encounter the dirty liquid. 

It’s also important to be aware of gray water. This type often comes from washing machines, dishwashers, sinks and showers and is not immediately as dangerous as the black variety, but can become more hazardous after 48 hours of contact with building surfaces. 

How can you stay safe from contaminated water? 

The best way to limit your risk to hazardous water from flooding is to limit your exposure to it. Instead of trying to handle the cleanup process yourself depend on our team of professionals to assess the damage and tackle the steps necessary for a thorough restoration of your home.

Black water is a likely contaminant after a flood, and it’s a primary reason why you should not deal with the water damage on your own. Contacting a professional team to assist with damage from flooding gives you greater protection from possible risks and increases the likelihood of positive outcomes.

Call SERVPRO of Rancho Cordova at (916) 251-7963 for more information on mitigating storm damage and how you can be prepared.