Recent Posts
Staying Safe Through Summer Storms | SERVPRO of Westfield
7/15/2024 (Permalink)
When storms strike, call SERVPRO of Westfield to restore your property to preloss condition faster!
Summer in Texas means sun-soaked days, outdoor adventures, and unfortunately, the occasional severe storm. While the weather can be unpredictable, there are steps homeowners can take to safeguard their properties. SERVPRO of Westfield is Here to Help® you navigate these summer storms damage-free.
Understanding Westfield’s Summer WeatherIn Westfield, summer storms can come with little warning, bringing heavy rains, strong winds, and even hail. These storms can cause significant damage to homes, from roof leaks to flooding. Knowing what to expect and how to prepare can make all the difference.
Common Storm ThreatsHeavy Rain: Summer storms often bring intense rainfall that can lead to flash flooding. Ensure your gutters and downspouts are clear to direct water away from your home.
Strong Winds: High winds can turn loose objects into dangerous projectiles and damage roofs and windows. Secure outdoor furniture and trim trees to minimize risks.
Hail: Hailstorms can cause severe damage to roofs, siding, and windows. Regular inspections can help spot potential vulnerabilities before a storm hits.
How to Prepare Your HomePreparation is key to minimizing storm damage. Here are some essential steps to protect your home:
Inspect and Maintain Your RoofYour roof is your first line of defense against storm damage. Regularly inspect it for loose or missing shingles, and address any issues promptly. Consider installing impact-resistant materials if you live in a hail-prone area.
Secure Doors and WindowsEnsure that all doors and windows are properly sealed and locked. Installing storm shutters or impact-resistant windows can provide extra protection against high winds and flying debris.
Clean Gutters and DownspoutsClogged gutters can lead to water damage during heavy rains. Make it a habit to clean them regularly and ensure downspouts direct water away from your foundation.
Trim Trees and Secure Loose ItemsOverhanging branches can break and cause damage during a storm. Trim trees and shrubs away from your home, and secure or store loose outdoor items.
What to Do During a StormWhen a storm hits, safety is your priority. Stay indoors, away from windows, and monitor weather updates. If flooding is imminent, move to higher ground and avoid walking or driving through floodwaters.
Trust SERVPRO® for Storm Damage RestorationDespite all precautions, storm damage can still occur. When it does, SERVPRO of Westfield is ready to help. Our team of professionals is trained to handle everything from water extraction to structural repairs, ensuring your home is restored quickly and efficiently.
Don’t let summer storms catch you off guard. Prepare your home today and know that if you need help, SERVPRO of Westfield is just a call away. Stay safe, Westfield!
Even a home that is well prepared could still be damaged. Call us for 24⁄7 restoration.
How an Emergency Plan Can Keep Your Business Protected | SERVPRO of Westfield
7/2/2024 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Westfield is Here to Help® your business prepare for disaster with an updated ERP!
As a business owner in this part of Texas, you understand the importance of being prepared for anything. One critical aspect of readiness is having a comprehensive emergency plan. At SERVPRO of Westfield, we know that a well-crafted emergency plan can make the difference between swift recovery and prolonged downtime. Here’s how an emergency plan can keep your business protected, especially from natural disasters common to our area.
The Importance of an Emergency PlanNatural disasters can strike without warning, causing significant damage and disruption. In Westfield, we are particularly vulnerable to hurricanes, floods, and tornadoes. Having an emergency plan in place ensures that you and your employees know exactly what to do when disaster strikes, minimizing panic and confusion.
Key Elements of an Effective Emergency PlanCreating an effective emergency plan involves several key components:
1. Risk AssessmentIdentify the types of natural disasters that are most likely to impact your business. In Westfield, hurricanes and floods are primary concerns. Understanding these risks helps you tailor your emergency plan to address specific threats.
2. Communication StrategyEstablish a clear communication plan that includes a phone tree, email notifications, and social media updates. Ensure that all employees know how and when to communicate during an emergency.
3. Evacuation Routes and Shelter LocationsClearly mark evacuation routes and designate safe areas within your building. Regularly conduct drills to ensure everyone is familiar with these procedures.
4. Emergency SuppliesStockpile essential supplies such as water, non-perishable food, first aid kits, and flashlights. Ensure these supplies are easily accessible in case of an emergency.
5. Data ProtectionRegularly back up critical data and store it in a secure, off-site location. This ensures that your business can continue to operate even if physical assets are damaged.
Training and Regular UpdatesAn emergency plan is only effective if everyone is familiar with it. Conduct regular training sessions and drills to keep your team prepared. Additionally, review and update your plan periodically to account for new risks or changes in your business operations.
Partnering with SERVPRO®At SERVPRO of Westfield, we specialize in helping businesses prepare for and recover from natural disasters. Our team can assist you in creating an emergency plan tailored to your specific needs. We also offer emergency response services to help you get back on your feet quickly after a disaster.
Don’t wait until it’s too late. Protect your business by implementing a comprehensive emergency plan today. By taking these proactive steps, you can ensure that your business remains resilient and capable of weathering any storm. Let us help you stay prepared and protected.
For more information and professional assistance, visit our website SERVPRO of Westfield.
Protect Your Home from Severe Thunderstorm Damage | SERVPRO of Westfield
6/17/2024 (Permalink)
Whether its storm damage cleanup or restoration, SERVPRO of Westfield is ready to respond in a moments notice to your call.
Understanding the Risks and Taking Preventative MeasuresLiving in an area prone to severe thunderstorms can be both thrilling and nerve-wracking. While the spectacle of lightning illuminating the sky can be mesmerizing, the potential damage it can cause to your home is no joke. As homeowners, it’s essential to be proactive in protecting our properties from the wrath of these powerful natural phenomena.
Assessing VulnerabilitiesBefore the storm season kicks into high gear, it’s crucial to assess your home’s vulnerabilities. According to a study by the National Severe Storms Laboratory, strong winds associated with thunderstorms are responsible for a significant portion of property damage in affected areas. SERVPRO of Westfield recommends conducting a thorough inspection of your property to identify weak points such as loose shingles, compromised siding, or overhanging branches that could pose a risk during high winds.
Strengthening Your DefensesOnce you’ve identified potential weak spots, it’s time to shore up your defenses. Reinforcing your roof and securing loose items in your yard can go a long way in minimizing storm-related damage. Research conducted by the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety suggests that investing in impact-resistant roofing materials can significantly reduce the risk of damage during severe weather events. Additionally, installing storm shutters or reinforced garage doors can provide an extra layer of protection for your home.
Partnering with the ExpertsWhile preventative measures can help mitigate the risk of storm damage, sometimes Mother Nature has other plans. In the unfortunate event that your home sustains damage during a severe thunderstorm, it’s essential to have a trusted restoration partner by your side. SERVPRO of Westfield specializes in storm damage restoration and is equipped to handle everything from water extraction to structural repairs. With their expertise and commitment to customer satisfaction, you can rest assured that your home will be in good hands.
Don’t wait until it’s too late. Protect your home from severe thunderstorm damage today!
Contact SERVPRO of Westfield to learn more about our storm damage restoration services.
Staying Fire Safe: Essential Tips for Grilling Outdoors | SERVPRO of Westfield
6/3/2024 (Permalink)
Gather around the grill, but don't forget about fire safety! Follow these tips from SERVPRO of Westfield to ensure a fun and safe night.
Fire Up Your Grill, Not Your WorriesAs the weather warms up and the days grow longer, there’s nothing quite like firing up the grill and enjoying a delicious meal outdoors. But before you get your barbecue party started, it’s crucial to prioritize safety, both for yourself and your home. With SERVPRO of Westfield by your side, you can ensure a summer filled with fun and flavor, without any unwanted fire hazards.
Understanding the RisksAccording to the National Fire Protection Association, grilling fires cause an annual average of 10,200 home fires, resulting in millions of dollars in property damage and countless injuries. The majority of these incidents occur between May and August, highlighting the importance of staying vigilant during the peak grilling season.
Preparing Your Outdoor Cooking SpaceBefore you even think about firing up the grill, take a few moments to assess your outdoor cooking space. Ensure that your grill is placed on a stable surface away from any flammable materials, such as overhanging branches or wooden decks. Keep a fire extinguisher nearby and designate a safe zone for children and pets to prevent accidents.
Practicing Safe Grilling TechniquesWhen it comes to grilling safely, knowledge is key. Make sure to clean your grill regularly to prevent grease buildup, which can increase the risk of flare-ups. Always supervise the grill while it’s in use and never leave it unattended. And remember, never use gasoline or other flammable liquids to ignite the flames—opt for a long-handled lighter instead.
Celebrate Safely with SERVPRO®At SERVPRO of Westfield, we understand the importance of keeping your home and family safe all year round. That’s why we’re here to provide you with expert tips and resources to help you grill with confidence. From fire damage restoration to emergency cleanup services, we’ve got you covered.
Get Grilling with ConfidenceThis summer, don’t let fire safety take a backseat to outdoor fun. With the right precautions and a little help from SERVPRO of Westfield, you can enjoy delicious grilled meals without worrying about potential risks. Stay informed, stay prepared, and most importantly, stay safe.
Let’s make this grilling season one to remember—for all the right reasons.
Visit SERVPRO of Westfield to learn more about fire safety and how we can help restore your home.
Planning for Storms With Kids | SERVPRO of Westfield
5/15/2024 (Permalink)
When the storm has passed, call SERVPRO of Westfield to help you recover.
If the boom of thunder sends your home into chaos, you aren’t alone. It isn’t uncommon for animals, kids and even adults to feel nervous as storms approach, and all those nerves can make it hard to make fast decisions.
Texas weather can be pretty volatile, and our community certainly isn’t immune. Strong thunderstorms are common year-round, while tornadoes, flooding and even the remnants of hurricanes can roll in pretty often as well. There isn’t a lot we can do about the weather, but we can take charge of our own home and how we respond to storms.
When you make a plan and gather plenty of supplies, you can ease any fears and keep everyone safe.
Knowing What to Look ForOne of the best ways to prepare for storms is by learning about them and teaching the kids what to look for. Head outside and spend some time talking about the sky and the changes that can happen when a storm is headed our way.
Tell the kids that things may look black, blue or even green. Make sure they understand that if they see twisty, swirling clouds or hear thunder they should head indoors right away.
If your home is close enough to hear community warning sirens, make sure your kids can identify what they are. Check for a testing date and have the kids compete to see who can hear it first and how fast they can get to safe space when they do hear it. The more you can get kids used to the sights and sounds of a storm, the less scary inclement weather will be.
Preparing for the EventAfter you have spent time getting to know the sights and sounds of storms, the next step is to create a solid emergency plan with your family. This should include where to go during a tornado, strong thunderstorm or flood. You should also put together an emergency kit when you create your family plan.
For severe storms, the lowest level of your home is ideal. Find an interior room with as few windows as possible. Let the kids play in or near this space so that they can get comfortable with it. Make sure they understand that if flooding is predicted you will need to move to higher ground. Choose a safe location higher up to meet in the event that a flood threatens your home.
Along with knowing where to go in different circumstances, it is important to have the right supplies. Let the kids help you build an emergency kit with first-aid supplies, batteries, candles and flashlights. Give them the opportunity to pick some shelf-stable snacks to keep in your emergency kit as well.
When severe weather is predicted, put your kit somewhere you can quickly grab it, and add in water, prescription medications and some seasonally appropriate shoes. It can also help to give the kids their own flashlights. These can help them navigate a dark house and help them feel a little safer during weather events.
Some non-electronic games are another great addition to your emergency kit. Card games, activity books and board games are a great distraction from thunder and lightning.
Keeping CalmNerves and apprehensions about weather are normal in people of all ages, but they can be particularly hard to deal with for young children. Make sure you keep your emergency planning lighthearted, and incorporate games to make things feel fun.
It is also helpful to know that extreme damage to a home is rare. The majority of the time, damage is isolated to roofs, siding and the yard.
Let your focus be on keeping everyone calm. When you have a plan and the supplies you need to stay safe, you can ride out storms with ease.
Storm damage should always be addressed quickly. Contact SERVPRO® day or night for the restoration services you need.
Dealing With Mold After a Leak | SERVPRO of Westfield
5/1/2024 (Permalink)
Trust our team at SERVPRO of Westfield to provide comprehensive services for a full recovery for all your water damage restoration needs.
A water leak in your house certainly doesn’t sound like a fun way to spend your day. A washing machine that decided to wash the floor or an open window during a rainstorm can ruin a day.
You may reach for towels or a mop, but many water leaks are far more destructive than you may realize. Even a little bit of water can run away pretty quickly, finding every nook and cranny in the process.
The sooner you get professional help, the less damage your home will endure.
Addressing Water LeaksWhen water ends up in all the wrong places inside your home, it can lead to utter chaos. Leaks can seep under your floors, behind your walls and into several other hard-to-reach places all over.
Go ahead and dry up water that you see when you come across a leak in your home, but as you do, try to get an idea of where it may have flowed into. Water that ends up in a tight space that doesn’t have a lot of airflow won’t dry up on its own. Instead, these areas can stay moist for a long time, creating the perfect atmosphere for disaster.
As moisture hangs out, metal structures can start to rust while wooden support systems might begin to break down. Mold can also grow and, in as little as a day, spread rapidly. That means you could be dealing with a dangerous outbreak along with water damage—all from a simple leak.
Following Your NoseOne of the most common signs that mold has started growing in your home is a musty odor. If you have recently handled a leak somewhere in your house and now notice an earthy, wet smell, use your nose to try and locate the source. It may be challenging to find exactly where the problem is, as often mold sets up behind your walls.
Fortunately, our professionals are experts not just in water damage restoration but also in mold remediation and odor removal. When we start tackling the damage left behind from a water leak, like warped walls and swollen flooring, we will also seek out mold problems. With sanitization, removal and other remediation techniques, our crew will get your home completely clear of damages.
As we work, we will isolate areas where mold has caused odors in order to ventilate the air and remove any remaining particles. Every area of your home will be sanitized and sealed in order to ensure growth can’t start again. Whatever we can do to make your house feel—and smell—like home again will be done.
Don’t ignore signs of a water leak. Contact SERVPRO® for a full recovery.
Insurance and Disasters: What to Know | SERVPRO of Westfield
4/15/2024 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Westfield is Here to Help® with your business' disaster recovery!
When a disaster strikes, it can leave your mind swirling with thoughts. You may primarily be focused on the welfare of your loved ones, with worries about the shape of your home another largely consuming concern.
As you begin to sort things out, thinking through how to start and handle your insurance claim process may not even be on your to-do list. Even if it isn’t, the faster you can start the entire recovery process, the better.
Our team is here to help you put all the pieces of your life and your recovery back together. We will make managing your insurance claims process simple.
Start Fast, Document OftenWhen it comes to disaster cleanup, the faster you can move, the better. Every disaster will be different and come with its own unique challenges, but the sooner you can respond, the less damage your property will incur. Make sure you keep safety as your first priority. Stay away from floodwaters, downed power lines and potential hot spots after a fire.
Make sure your loved ones and neighbors are safe, too, so that any emergency needs can be addressed right away. Clear roads if you can safely do so to allow for vehicles to safely pass.
When you feel comfortable that everyone is as safe as possible, call our SERVPRO® office and start your recovery. We will take a lot of information over the phone while we also mobilize a team to your property with the equipment necessary to restore things back to normal fast.
Once our team is headed your way, start assessing the damage done and take as many photos as you can. When it comes to insurance claims, the more documentation you can provide, the smoother you process will be. If there is something you need to fix before our team gets there, make sure to take note of what you did in order to provide that information on the claim later.
Leave It to Our TeamWhen our team makes it to your property, we will immediately start securing your home in order to prevent further damage and keep the elements out. While we tarp your roof or board up broken windows, we will also look through all of your pictures and other documentation in order to add anything additional you will need for your claims process. Our staff is well-trained in the requirements that insurance companies carry, which means we will take every step possible to make the claims process successful.
While we work through your recovery process, we will create an itemized list of your losses. Because we are certified in insurance inspection standards, all of the work we complete will be to the highest degree. We also make it a goal to restore as much of your property as we can so that you have less to replace. Whatever we can do to keep your cost low and your insurance claims process easy, we are going to do it.
You can put your recovery into the hands of our team and know that everything, including your insurance claim, will be as easy as it can be. We will work hard to get your life put back together so you can get back to normal.
When a disaster strikes, call us to make your recovery process—insurance claims and all—simple.
The Basics of Preparing for Flooding | SERVPRO of Westfield
4/1/2024 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Westfield is ready to help in a moments notice after spring showers leak in to your home or business.
Going back to the basics is the best way to get something done, especially if you want it done well. This is something you understand well if you have children in school and have ever helped them with math homework. If they don’t know the basics, it can be incredibly frustrating .
Going back to the basics of disaster prevention is the best way to protect your home well from potential natural disasters, too. We don’t have a lot of say in how Mother Nature acts, but when we are prepared for anything she sends us, our damage will be less.
Flooding is one of the most common kinds of natural disasters, which means it is one that we all should be ready to handle.
Know Your ZoneFlooding is so common because it can happen in so many different ways. Not all flooding originates from nature, but those internal floods are generally easier to get under control and clean up from.
Flooding emanating from the outdoors can be more challenging. When it comes to flooding from Mother Nature, we are no strangers to flash floods, river flooding and rising waters from the many creeks around the area. Houston is notorious for flooding in Texas, which means as their neighbor, it is crucial we are all prepared.
Start preparing yourself by checking where your property is in the area of flood zones. This will help improve your understanding of your specific risks in order to be the most prepared.
Get to know your yard as well. If after a heavy rain things are wet and soggy or you are in a lower area, additional drainage can help prevent water from piling up and seeping into your house.
If you have a lot of trees near your home or in your community, keep a close eye on your gutters. Adding covers could be a good way to prevent blockages and keep water off your roof. Checking your roof periodically is another way to keep rain moving, which is particularly important in our notoriously windy spring seasons.
Prepare to PreventThe more you can get to know your area and how it reacts when rain or floods occur, the more you can do to stay safe—which is why this is such an important first step to take. There are other things you can do to ensure your home is ready for anything too. Some basic home maintenance can go a long way in making sure you are ready for any kind of flooding that comes your way.
Start with yard work. Make sure there is a gentle slope in your yard that will encourage rain to flow quickly away. If there is a place in your yard that likes to hold water, consider adding a garden or other organic material. This can help pull water underground.
Extending your gutter downspouts is another great way to prevent ponding. Take them underground for an extra layer of protection, especially when bodies of water start to rise.
Inside your house, take care of your windows and doors. Each fall and spring, check their seals and update caulking that has worn out. If you have a basement, make sure there are no visible cracks or gaps in the foundation. Check the corners on a sunny day to ensure you can’t see any light seeping through. Have it professionally sealed when you do spot problems. A sump pump is another great upgrade that will help prevent flooding.
Going back to the basics will always be the easiest and most effective way to be prepared for the possibility of flooding. Add flood safety steps to your regular routines so you can stress a little less the next time a heavy rain moves in. It will be much easier than helping your kids with math.
Do you have water damage in your home? Contact us at SERVPRO® for fast recovery.
How to Deal With a Sewage Leak | SERVPRO of Westfield
3/15/2024 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Westfield is ready to respond to your call in a moments notice when biohazard incidents strike on your property.
When you think about scenarios you never want to walk into, finding a sewage leak in your home or office is likely to be high on the list. It may not be the most destructive kind of disaster that can strike, but it will be one of the grossest you have to deal with.
Unfortunately, sewage leaks can be pretty common and they can happen anywhere. It is important to understand how to respond if you find sewage seeping in or leaking out so that you can control the situation and get things back to normal fast.
What to Do FirstWhen wastewater cannot move down your pipes due to a clog or blockage, it will find its way out through sink drains, tubs and showers. Sewage leaks can also be caused when damage is done to either your water line or pipes in your sewage system.
Where it comes from doesn’t really matter, once it has entered into your home or other space, it is important not to touch it. Water that causes damage in a building is classified in three different ways: white water, gray water and black water. While white water and gray water aren’t usually considered to be dangerous to deal with, black water is toxic and can be hazardous to your health. Sewage leaks are considered black water as they contain viruses, microbes and bacteria.
Stay away from the sewage leak and shut the water off to stop the flow of water. If you can safely do so, open windows around the affected area in order to let fumes escape. Make sure you secure the area as well—create a physical blockade if you have pets or small children so they cannot access the leak.
Where SERVPRO® Comes InOur team is trained and certified in handling a number of different biohazard situations, including sewage leaks. With 24⁄7 availability, we can start the recovery process the moment you call us, even in the middle of the night. Over the phone we will gather as much information as possible in order to assemble a team and the tools needed to get you back on track safely.
Once we have gotten your information and a team is headed your way, spend some time taking photos of what has happened. Even though you may not want to ever see this again, the more documentation you have, the easier insurance claims will be. Our professionals can also use these photos to help get a better idea of everything that will need to be done to fully restore your property.
Our team will jump into action the moment they arrive by assessing the situation and working to find the root cause of the leak. It will also be one of our first priorities to remove any standing water and debris. While we will be working in protective gear to keep ourselves safe from the toxic materials, it’s best that you stay away until things are safe again.
As the recovery process proceeds, the original source of the leak will be addressed and corrected, along with any physical damage that was done. We will also spend a lot of time deep-cleaning and ensuring every odor is removed. It is our goal to make everything feel and smell exactly like it should.
Tackling a sewage leak isn’t just stinky—it can be a real hazard to your health. Call us when you find yourself dealing with a mess, and let our team handle everything.
Sewage leaks should always be cleaned up by professionals. Call SERVPRO, and we will take care of you.
Spring Storms Can Be Alarming | SERVPRO of Westfield
3/1/2024 (Permalink)
Let SERVPRO of Westfield help you get from April showers to May flowers.
Spring has finally come around again, and with it the warmer temperatures and greener grass. The spring season can also come with some strong storms, including heavy thunderstorms, tornadoes and even early-season tropical systems.
As spring continues and the weather gets warmer, storms can become more and more severe. That combined with the start of hurricane season for our coastal neighbors means that we need to be prepared for anything.
Receiving weather alerts and staying informed ahead of situations is the best first step you can take in preparing your family and keeping everyone safe.
The Power of the InternetNone of us are ever far away from a phone or other screen, which makes them one of the best options for receiving weather alerts. You can receive Wireless Emergency Alerts that will happen automatically for a number of situations, and you can choose from a large number of apps as well.
As you look through apps to download, make sure you stick with trusted sources. Choose nationally recognized organizations, or go with a local news source. Many news stations offer their own apps, which can alert you to not only weather situations, but other local events as well. Make sure you sign up for the city notifications, too.
When an event is predicted, keep a close eye on the news. Watch the forecasts, and listen for potential evacuation orders and shelters opening so you know how to react as the situation continues.
Non-Electronic OptionsIt isn’t uncommon for even a small storm to knock out power long-term, which makes it important to have a backup source for receiving weather alerts. While we love staying connected with our devices, non-electronic options can ensure your safety when there is no way to recharge a battery.
If your home is near town sirens, get used to what they sound like so that you can safely shelter as needed. Consider investing in a weather radio as well. NOAA weather radios are portable and self-powered through a hand-crank or solar-power. These can run long-term regardless of electricity and can go with you when you need shelter or if you head out to check on your home in between storms.
When you are able to receive timely notification you can seek shelter and protect your life, but it may not stop damage from occurring to your home. If a storm rolls through town and leaves behind damage, call us. We are available around the clock to get things put back together fast so you can get back to normal.
Serious storms can cause serious property damage. Call SERVPRO® 24⁄7 for immediate restoration assistance.
24/7 Emergency Service