Be Ready for Any Storm: Essential Emergency Supplies to Have

9/11/2024 (Permalink)

This guide will help you assemble a comprehensive emergency kit that can help you weather any storm.

Storms can strike at any time in Longmont, CO, leaving communities without power, water, or access to essential services. Being prepared with the right emergency supplies can make all the difference in ensuring the safety and well-being of your family. In fact, according to FEMA, only 40 percent of Americans have an emergency plan, underscoring the need for increased preparedness. This guide will help you assemble a comprehensive emergency kit that can help you weather any storm.

Why Storm Preparedness is Crucial

Storms, whether hurricanes, tornadoes, or severe thunderstorms, can cause significant disruption to daily life. Preparing ahead of time can mitigate the risks associated with these natural events. Emergency kits are a critical component of storm preparedness, providing necessary resources for survival and comfort during and after a storm.

Essential Emergency Supplies

Water and Food

• Water: At least one gallon per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation.
• Non-perishable food: A three-day supply of non-perishable food items such as canned goods, dried fruits, and nuts.

Safety and Comfort Items

• First aid kit: Include bandages, antiseptics, pain relievers, and any prescription medications.
• Sanitation items: Moist towelettes, garbage bags, and plastic ties for personal sanitation.
• Clothing and bedding: Warm clothes, sturdy shoes, and blankets or sleeping bags.

Tools and Supplies

• Multi-purpose tool: A tool that can serve multiple functions like cutting, opening cans, and repairing items.
• Flashlights and extra batteries: Essential for power outages.
• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio: To stay informed about weather updates and emergency information.

Important Documents

• Personal identification: Copies of IDs, insurance policies, bank account records, and other crucial documents stored in a waterproof container.
• Cash: Small bills in case ATMs are down.

Communication

• Mobile phone and chargers: Including a backup power source like a solar charger or power bank.
• Emergency contact list: Written down and stored in your emergency kit.

Additional Items to Consider

Special Needs

• Infant supplies: Formula, diapers, bottles, and pacifiers.
• Pet supplies: Food, water, and any necessary medication.

Entertainment

• Books, games, and puzzles: To keep morale high during stressful times.

Conclusion

Being prepared for a storm means having the right supplies on hand to ensure your family’s safety and comfort. Building an emergency kit tailored to your needs is a proactive step toward storm preparedness. Remember, it’s not a matter of if a storm will occur, but when. Stay safe and be ready for any storm that comes your way.

For more information on storm preparedness and recovery services, visit SERVPRO®.

Weathering the Storm: Minimizing Damage and Navigating Insurance Considerations in North Central Hailstorms

5/8/2024 (Permalink)

The North Central region of the United States is no stranger to severe weather, and among the various challenges, hailstorms stand out for their potential to cause significant damage to homes, vehicles, and crops. In this blog, we'll explore strategies to minimize damage during North Central hailstorms and offer insights into navigating insurance considerations to ensure a smoother recovery process.

Minimizing Damage During Hailstorms:

1. Roof Inspection and Maintenance

Regular roof inspections are vital in hail-prone regions. Ensure your roof is in good condition and replace any damaged or worn-out shingles promptly. Consider impact-resistant roofing materials to enhance your roof's durability against hail.

2. Protective Coverings for Vehicles

If possible, park your vehicles in a garage or covered area during hailstorms. If no covered parking is available, use blankets, car covers, or hail-resistant car mats to provide a layer of protection for your vehicles.

3. Reinforce Windows and Skylights

Install impact-resistant windows and skylights, or consider adding protective coverings during hail seasons. Reinforced glass can significantly reduce the risk of shattered windows during a hailstorm.

4. Hail-Resistant Siding and Exterior Materials

Consider using hail-resistant siding and exterior materials for your home. These materials are designed to withstand impact and minimize damage caused by hailstones.

5. Outdoor Furniture and Décor

Secure or bring indoors any outdoor furniture, décor, or equipment that could be damaged by hail. Lightweight items can become projectiles in high winds, causing additional damage.

Insurance Considerations

1. Review Your Insurance Policy

Familiarize yourself with your homeowner's insurance policy, paying close attention to coverage for hail damage. Understand the deductibles, coverage limits, and any exclusions related to hailstorms.

2. Document Pre-Existing Conditions

Before hail season begins, document the current condition of your property, including the roof, siding, windows, and vehicles. This documentation can serve as evidence in the event of a hail damage claim.

3. Promptly Report Damage

If your property sustains hail damage, report it to your insurance company as soon as possible. Delaying the reporting of damage may complicate the claims process.

4. Document and Photograph Damage

Document the hail damage thoroughly by taking photographs and videos. Capture images of damaged areas from various angles to provide comprehensive documentation for your insurance claim.

5. Obtain Multiple Repair Estimates

Seek estimates from reputable contractors for repairing the hail damage. Having multiple estimates can help ensure a fair and accurate assessment of the repair costs.

6. Work with Reputable Contractors

Choose reputable and experienced contractors to carry out repairs. Check for proper licensing, insurance, and references. Working with professionals can help ensure quality repairs and a smoother insurance claims process.

7. Understand Depreciation and Actual Cash Value

Insurance settlements for hail damage may be based on the actual cash value (ACV) of the damaged items, considering depreciation. Understand how this calculation works and whether your policy offers options for full replacement cost coverage.

8. Consider Hail-Resistant Upgrades

Depending on the extent of the damage, consider investing in hail-resistant upgrades during the repair process. Upgrading to impact-resistant roofing, siding, and windows may provide added protection in the future.

In conclusion, North Central hailstorms pose a unique set of challenges, but proactive measures and informed insurance considerations can significantly mitigate their impact. By implementing strategies to minimize damage and understanding the nuances of insurance coverage, homeowners in hail-prone regions can navigate the aftermath of storms with greater confidence and resilience.

Battling the Fury: Essential Safety Tips for Derecho Windstorms

1/4/2024 (Permalink)

Derecho windstorms are powerful and often unexpected weather events characterized by straight-line winds that can cause extensive damage. With their ability to uproot trees, damage structures, and disrupt power lines, derecho storms require thorough preparation and a keen awareness of safety measures. In this blog, we'll explore crucial safety tips to help you navigate through a derecho windstorm and protect yourself, your loved ones, and your property.

Stay Informed

Monitor weather forecasts and stay informed about potential derecho warnings. The more aware you are of approaching severe weather conditions, the better prepared you can be to take necessary precautions.

Secure Outdoor Items

Derecho winds can reach high speeds, turning loose objects into dangerous projectiles. Secure outdoor furniture, tools, and other items that could become projectiles, and bring in or tie down any loose items in your yard to prevent them from causing damage during the storm.

Create a Family Emergency Plan

Develop a family emergency plan that includes communication strategies, evacuation routes, and a designated meeting point. Ensure that every family member is familiar with the plan and knows what to do in the event of a derecho windstorm.

Reinforce Doors and Windows

Reinforce doors and windows to minimize the risk of structural damage. Consider installing storm shutters or boarding up windows with plywood to provide an extra layer of protection.

Seek Shelter Indoors

When a derecho is approaching, the safest place to be is indoors. Stay away from windows, glass doors, and exterior walls. Seek shelter in a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor of your home.

Have an Emergency Kit Ready

Prepare an emergency kit that includes essentials such as non-perishable food, water, medications, flashlights, batteries, a first aid kit, and important documents. Having these items readily available can be crucial in the aftermath of a derecho windstorm.

Charge Devices

Charge your electronic devices in advance to ensure you have access to communication tools and emergency information during power outages. Consider investing in portable chargers to keep your devices powered for an extended period.

Stay Away from Downed Power Lines

After the storm has passed, be cautious of downed power lines. Always assume that downed power lines are live and potentially dangerous. Keep a safe distance and report any fallen lines to your local utility company.

Be Cautious with Generators

If using a generator, follow safety guidelines to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Keep the generator outdoors, away from windows and doors, and never operate it in an enclosed space.

Check on Neighbors

Community support is vital during and after a derecho windstorm. Check on neighbors, especially those who may need assistance, such as the elderly or individuals with mobility issues.

Derecho windstorms are formidable forces of nature, and preparation is key to minimizing their impact on your safety and property. By staying informed, securing your surroundings, and following these safety tips, you can navigate through a derecho storm with resilience and protect what matters most. Remember, the safety of yourself and your loved ones should always be the top priority during severe weather events.

SERVPRO® of Longmont's Storm Damage Restoration

10/5/2023 (Permalink)

Colorado is no stranger to severe storms. From powerful winds that can knock down trees to heavy rainfall that can cause floods, storms can cause significant damage to homes and businesses in the region. In the aftermath of a storm, restoration services are crucial for repairing the damage and ensuring that affected properties are safe to inhabit. In this blog post, we will explore the role of SERVPRO® in storm damage restoration.

Who is SERVPRO?

SERVPRO is a national franchise of restoration and cleaning services companies that provide a range of services, including storm damage restoration. With over 1,700 locations in the United States, SERVPRO has become a trusted name in the industry and has helped countless homeowners and businesses recover from storm-related damages.

What Services Does SERVPRO Offer?

SERVPRO offers a comprehensive list of services for storm damage restoration. Their team of trained and certified professionals utilizes the latest tools and techniques to restore properties that have been damaged by storms. Some of the services that SERVPRO provides include:

Emergency response services 

SERVPRO provides 24/7 response services to mitigate further damage. Their team of experts is available to respond to emergency calls, assess the damage, and begin the restoration process immediately.

Water damage restoration

In the event of flooding caused by a storm, SERVPRO can help extract water, dry damaged areas, and restore any affected property to its previous condition.

Fire damage restoration

Strong winds can cause trees or power lines to fall, leading to fires. SERVPRO has the expertise to restore fire-damaged properties, remove soot and smoke damage, and repairing any structural damage.

Mold remediation

Severe storms often cause moisture problems that lead to mold growth. SERVPRO offers mold remediation services, including cleaning and decontamination, to restore indoor air quality.

Reconstruction services

SERVPRO also provides full reconstruction services to rebuild affected residential and commercial properties.

What Makes SERVPRO Unique?

SERVPRO has a reputation for being a leader in the restoration and cleaning industry due to its technology, expertise, and commitment to customer satisfaction. They provide a range of services and have the resources to handle jobs of any size, from residential to large commercial properties. They utilize advanced equipment such as high-tech vacuums, air movers, and dehumidifiers to help dry and restore water-damaged areas, and their team of experts undergoes continuous training and certification to ensure quality workmanship. SERVPRO also aims to provide exceptional customer service, working with clients to assess their needs and find a personalized solution that best suits their situation.

SERVPRO plays an essential role in Colorado storm damage restoration, providing a comprehensive range of services that ensure affected properties are safe and habitable. Whether it is water damage, fire damage, mold remediation, or reconstruction services, SERVPRO professionals are available 24/7, providing fast and effective restoration services to get property owners back to their normal lives. By leveraging its technology, expertise, and commitment to customer satisfaction, SERVPRO has helped countless individuals and businesses recover from the severe storms that hit Colorado, providing them with a sense of security and peace of mind.

How to Find Out If You Live in a Flood Zone: Tips for Protecting Your Home and Property

6/28/2023 (Permalink)

Living in a flood zone can be a serious concern for homeowners, as flooding can cause significant damage to your property and pose a threat to your safety. It's important to know if your home is located in a flood zone so that you can take appropriate precautions and have the necessary insurance coverage. In this blog post, we'll discuss some tips on how to find out if you live in a flood zone.

Check the FEMA Flood Map

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) maintains a flood map that can be accessed online. This map provides information about flood zones across the country, including high-risk areas that require flood insurance. To find out if your home is located in a flood zone, simply enter your address into the search bar on the FEMA Flood Map website.

Consult Your Local Government

Your local government can provide information about flood zones in your area. You can contact your city or county government to find out if your home is located in a flood zone. They can also provide information about flood insurance and other flood-related concerns.

Hire a Professional

If you are unsure about whether your home is located in a flood zone, you can hire a professional to conduct a flood risk assessment. A flood risk assessment can help identify areas of your property that are at risk of flooding and provide recommendations for flood prevention measures.

Check Flood Insurance Requirements

If you are purchasing a home, your lender may require you to purchase flood insurance if your home is located in a high-risk flood zone. You can check with your lender to find out if flood insurance is required for your property. Even if flood insurance is not required, it may be a good idea to purchase it as a precautionary measure.

Look for Signs of Previous Flooding

If you live in an area that is prone to flooding, there may be signs of previous flooding in your neighborhood. Look for water marks on buildings and trees, as well as erosion and sediment buildup. These signs can indicate that your property is at risk of flooding.

It's also important to note that flood zones can change over time due to changes in weather patterns, development, and other factors. It's a good idea to check for updates to the FEMA Flood Map periodically to ensure that you are aware of any changes to the flood zone in your area. Additionally, even if your home is not located in a high-risk flood zone, it's still possible for flooding to occur due to heavy rainfall, storm surges, or other factors. Taking proactive measures such as installing flood barriers, elevating appliances and electronics, and keeping important documents in a waterproof safe can help protect your property in the event of a flood. By staying informed about flood risks and taking appropriate precautions, you can help minimize the damage that flooding can cause to your home and property.

In conclusion, finding out if you live in a flood zone is an important step in protecting your property and ensuring your safety. By checking the FEMA Flood Map, consulting your local government, hiring a professional, checking flood insurance requirements, and looking for signs of previous flooding, you can determine whether your home is located in a flood zone and take appropriate precautions. If you do live in a flood zone, it's important to have a flood preparedness plan in place and consider purchasing flood insurance to protect your property.

The 3 Best Sandbag Alternatives

8/21/2022 (Permalink)

Sandbag Alternatives

Sandbags are an old-fashioned flooding management solution. Each sandbag is messy to fill without specialized equipment and is only suitable for one-time use after coming into contact with contaminated water. Check out three reusable sandbag alternatives that are easier and faster to maneuver into place and may be more effective at blocking flood water.

1. Absorbent Barriers
Several manufacturers make porous alternatives to sandbags. These flat bags absorb water and swell to create a barrier that blocks the flow of water. Absorbent barriers have the advantage of being the most lightweight and easy to store flood control method. It is possible to deploy these barriers in a matter of minutes. Some manufacturers guarantee that barriers can be used to block water for months. Some absorbent barriers can be dried out and reused.

2. Water-Filled Barriers
Nonporous water-filled flood dams are another reusable solution. This type of barrier requires some preparation, as it is necessary to use a hose to fill these cofferdams with clean water. These barriers can be left standing as long as necessary to limit flood damage before being emptied, cleaned, stored, and reused.

3. Flood-Proof Fencing
Another popular sandbag alternative is fencing designed to stand up to flood water. Flood fencing can create a higher barrier than other water-filled barriers. The setup time for this fencing may exceed water-filled cofferdams and other sandbag alternatives, but should be easier than filling and stacking large quantities of sandbags. Though this flood control equipment is costly, it can keep an entire property or area from flooding.

Each of these sandbag alternatives is useful for certain applications. If you own commercial property in Lyons, CO, you may want to invest in one or more solutions for controlling flooding. Buildings in flood zones may benefit from using any of this equipment to reduce the severity of storm damage.

3 Tips for Reduction of Odors From Water Damage

8/15/2022 (Permalink)

Flood cuts after storm damage in Niwot, CO.

Ways To Reduce The Unpleasant Odor From Water Damage

Even after you or a professional cleanup and restoration service from Niwot, CO has removed any standing flood water from your building, there might be disagreeable smells. They may be the result of sewage loss from pipes or the street, mold growth from leftover moisture or bacteria carried in by gray water or black water. There are some actions that can help reduce or eliminate the unpleasant odors that arise from water damage.

1. Make Sure Everything Is Actually Dry
Any excess moisture can serve as a breeding ground for mold growth and mildew. The microorganisms emit musty scents akin to dirty socks or dirt as they progress through different stages of development. It can also harbor stink-producing bacteria. It is important to remove as much water as possible by opening windows, wringing out or trashing soaked textiles, drying off surfaces, and using fans and dehumidifiers.

2. Use Common Remedies
If the smell clings to a room, there are certain substances you can place in open containers around it to try and absorb the odor from the air, including:

• Cat litter
• Vinegar
• Baking soda

These are available for purchase at many general stores or shopping centers and have deodorizing capabilities. Baking soda can also be sprinkled on carpet, rugs or fabric-covered office furniture and vacuumed up to remove both liquid and nasty fragrances.

3. Disinfect Affected Surfaces
Sanitizing anything the water has touched can help ward off or kill mold in its beginning stages. Even if there is none visible, it might already have begun to release spores and infect porous materials. While bleach may seem like the obvious choice of cleanser, it generally only affects surface mold, not the filamentous roots or spores. Vinegar and warm water solution or soap and warm water mixture will prove more effective at removing the fungus.
While floods often lead to less than pleasant odors due to factors like mold growth and bacteria, the smells can be completely removed or at least mitigated. There are also professionals trained at disaster cleanup you can contact.

3 Actions You Can Expect During Storm Damage Restoration

5/9/2022 (Permalink)

Three Things To Expect During Storm Damage Restoration

Strong storms in Erie, CO, can leave behind severe damage in and around your home. Flooding is a common problem with powerful storms, and repairing issues on your own is not always the answer. Calling in a storm restoration team for tear out needs, water removal and more can help you feel more confident in the aftermath, and there are a few actions you can expect your technicians to make when they arrive.

1. Damage Inspection

Before your technicians can take action, they will likely first assess what type of problems severe weather caused. This includes noting which rooms took on water damage, the condition of the walls and ceilings, and performing flood cuts in the walls to identify which sections may need replacing.

2. Water Removal

Removing flood and standing water will probably be a priority for your restoration crew because the longer it sits, the faster it degrades. This type of storm restoration and mitigation is crucial for your home because outdoor flood waters or even water that comes from a sterilized source and then becomes standing water usually contains a lot of bacteria. Leaving the water to a crew that has the experience and tools to clear and dispose of it properly can reduce the cost of damage after a storm.

3. Storm Restoration of Building

After a powerful storm, your storm and flood restoration company technicians will begin to remove damaged furniture and other items from the home to sort and assess. They will tear out damaged drywall and carpeting to prevent mold growth, which can occur as soon as 24 hours after a flood.

When powerful storms strike Erie, CO, damage your home and you require tear out services and water removal, knowing what to expect when restoration technicians arrive can help you understand what to expect and allow you to feel more confident about the outcome.

Steps To Take For Storm Damage Recovery

4/15/2022 (Permalink)

Storms can happen when you least expect it. SERVPRO has teams ready to respond 24/7/365. Contact us about your storm restoration emergency.

Steps To Recovering From Storm Damage

After the wind and rain of a severe storm die down, the scene of destruction may seem overwhelming. You may wonder what to do while you wait for help to arrive. You may wonder what steps you need to take to put your life back together. If your property has been damaged by downed power lines or wind-blown tree branches, there are several steps you can take. Use the following storm tips to guide your actions.

Think of Safety First

Storm conditions can cause dangerous situations:

• Collapsed roofing or walls
• Standing water in the basement
• Shattered glass or exposed nails
• Damaged gas lines

In many situations, it's best to arrange for a temporary place to stay while your home is repaired. Contact property restoration professionals who can secure your property from further damage and take the first steps toward reconstruction.

Record the Damage

When you have approval to safely enter your property, make photographic records of the damage. Include as many pertinent details as possible in these records. For example, you might write down the brand name and age of your appliances. Thorough records help ensure that you get adequate payments from the insurance company.

Understand the Specifics of the Damage

The steps you take may vary if the storm damage includes flooding or if it led to fire and smoke damage. Consult professionals in your area to get tips regarding safety, cleanup, and local laws. You may also get valuable advice about how to protect yourself from secondary damages.

Check Out Federal Disaster Relief

If the extent of storm damage was severe enough that the federal government has declared a disaster area, you may have access to low-cost loans. This funding can help you get your property back into its pre-damaged condition. You will need to provide specific documents and file those with the federal government to secure these loans, so be sure to keep your paperwork as safe as possible.

These storm tips should help you get started on the journey of getting back to normal. Work closely with Longmont, CO, officials for a safe, orderly process.

4 Residential Flood Proofing Tips

4/13/2022 (Permalink)

When these homeowners came home to find their basement flooded after a water pipe burst, they were sure to call SERVPRO.

4 Flood-Proofing Tips For Your Home

Homeowners can follow these four flood prevention and safety tips to promote flood safety and keep water out of a residence in Berthoud, CO. While it is helpful to flood proof a property in advance, residents should comply with evacuation orders to preserve personal safety.

1. Enhance Drainage

It may be possible to significantly reduce the flood risk of a property by hiring landscaping experts to adjust the grading or slope to ensure that water flows away from the foundation. Adding fill to a property located in a flood zone may enable a homeowner to obtain an amendment or revision on the Flood Rate Insurance Map maintained by the National Flood Insurance Program, which may reduce the cost of flood insurance coverage.

2. Invest In Reusable Flood Barriers

Owners of homes in areas that frequently flood may want to invest in sandbag alternatives for flood safety. Choose from water-filled cofferdams or self-stabilizing fence barriers. Absorbent single-use alternatives are also available.

3. Install Backup Prevention Equipment

Flooding can overwhelm a municipal main and result in sewer backups. A homeowner can hire a plumber to determine whether preventative mechanisms such as a backflow valve, standpipe or overhead sewer could be effective solutions for flood proofing a basement.

4. Anchor or Elevate Critical Components

If flooding is anticipated within days or hours, homeowners should make every effort to promote personal safety while limiting losses. Anchor or elevate critical components such as fuel tanks, generators and HVAC units. Raising indoor electrical components can also reduce electrocution risks. Relocate as many appliances as possible above the anticipated flood water level.

These safety tips can reduce the likelihood that flooding will result in extensive damage and losses at a residence. In any case, flood safety is the primary concern. If a residence suffers damage, mitigation and restoration specialists can quickly arrive on site in Berthoud, CO.

Three Steps for Preventing Flood Damage During a Storm

2/23/2022 (Permalink)

Flood Damage Prevention In A Storm: Three Steps

There are many maintenance steps you can take to keep your home safe during storms and under normal conditions. These include

• Cleaning the gutters and storm drains
• Repairing any cracks in siding or foundations
• Replacing windows and doors that cracked or warped

However, if a storm is coming and you have time to prepare for flooding and other potential risks, you'll need to focus on preventing or minimizing potential storm damage.

One: Know the Risk of Floods

You can get valuable information from your emergency management office or the building department. Ask for the projected flood elevation of your neighborhood. The community may also have a website with this information. However, it's best to get this information before the pending storm. If you wait, those phone lines are likely to be busy, and it may be very hard to get the information you want. If you're not sure what to do with this information, contact a local flood recovery company.

Two: Find and Plug Basement Floor Drains

It isn't unusual for flooding to lead to sewer backups as storm water enters the community water system. As a storm approaches, avoid some flood damage by plugging or capping any floor drains, toilets, sinks, and showers with a plug or cap. If the floor drain ha a ball in the pipe, that drain plug may do the job. Again, work closely with flood recovery professionals to ensure good seals on these drain openings.

Three: Turn Off the Electricity

Shut off the electrical breakers and unscrew the fuses. Even if the water doesn't reach electrical outlets, reduce the potential for electrical shocks. If you have a furnace, freezer, washer, dryer, or other appliance in the basement, there's a risk. As much as possible, remove all appliances from the area to protect yourself and the appliances.

What other advice have you heard about protecting your home during flooding? Can you think of other tips for preventing flood damage?