HERE TO HELP with Coronavirus

3/13/2020 (Permalink)

HERE TO HELP minimize the spread of germs.

SERVPRO professionals are trained in adhering to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards.

SERVPRO professionals offer cleaning services including the removal of biohazard contaminants. They have the specialized training and products to get your property back to business.

About Coronavirus

The CDC is responding to an outbreak of a respiratory disease caused by a novel (new) coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) that was first detected in Wuhan City, Hubei Province, China and has spread to 60 locations internationally (as of this publication), including cases in the United States. The virus known as “coronavirus disease 2019” (abbreviated “COVID-19”) is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person or through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It may be possible that a person can get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes, but this is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads.

Scope of Cleanup Protocol

SERVPRO professionals can perform a proactive cleanup that involves facility or structure cleaning and disinfection where the customer states that there is no active known threat of COVID-19 contamination or exposure. The customer will be required to acknowledge that cleaning and disinfecting will only apply to the current state of the structure and contents. The structure would not be protected from future COVID-19 contamination if an infected person was to enter and occupy the building.

Cleanup Scope of Work and Planning

The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets, and tables at a minimum. These same surfaces are mentioned in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces as well, including:

• Kitchen/Food Areas
• Bathrooms
• Schools/Classrooms
• Offices
• Retail Spaces
• Water Fountains
• Shelving and Racks
• Sales Counters
• Carpets and Rugs
• Stair Handrails
• Elevator Cars
• Playground Equipment
• Fitness Equipment

Cleanup and Disinfecting Procedures

Cleanup procedures generally include cleaning of porous and non-porous surfaces, disinfecting of non-porous surfaces, cleaning and disinfecting of equipment, tools, and/or supplies used for cleanup process, and disposal of waste.

The CDC recommends usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar type organisms to COVID-19.

SERVPROXIDETM, SERVPRO’s proprietary disinfectant, is a hospital-grade disinfectant that has demonstrated effectiveness against viruses similar to SARS-CoV-2 on hard, non-porous surfaces. In addition, SERVPROXIDETM currently has dozens of EPA-approved claims including Feline coronavirus, Canine coronavirus, Staphylococcus (MRSA), E. coli, Salmonella, Rotavirus, Swine flu (H1N1) and more.

Porous surfaces that are not water-sensitive, such as carpet and other fabric material, cannot be disinfected but can be sanitized using SERVPROXIDETM.

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/summary.html

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/about/transmission.html

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/specific-groups/guidance-business-response.html

Managing Mold

3/10/2020 (Permalink)

When there's a water intrusion, like a roof leak or leaking water line, mold can quickly become a problem in your home or business. Mold can cause health effects and can also cause significant damage to your property. Fortunately, SERVPRO professionals have the training, protective gear and specialized equipment necessary to handle your mold problem. Although every mold damage scenario is different requiring a unique solution, the general mold remediation process stays the same. The following steps illustrate a "typical" mold removal process.

Call the Team in Green

The mold cleanup and restoration process begins when you call us. A representative will ask a series of questions to help determine the necessary equipment, resources and personnel needed. 

Inspection and Damage Assessment

Your property will be carefully inspected for signs of mold using technology designed to detect mold and hidden water sources. Mold feeds on cellulose and water and can be hidden from plain view.

Mold Containment

Various containment procedures will be placed to prevent the spread of mold and isolate the contaminated area with physical barriers and negative air pressure to keep the mold spores from spreading during the cleanup process.

Air Filtration 

Specialized filtration equipment captures microscopic mold spores out of the air. SERVPRO technicians utilize powerful air scrubbers and HEPA vacuums to prevent the spread of these mold spores while the mold remediation is in progress. 

Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials 

The mold remediation process depends on the amount of mold growth and the types of surfaces on which the mold appears. Anti-fungal and antimicrobial treatments will be used to eliminate mold colonies and help prevent new colonies from forming. Removing and disposing of mold-infested porous materials, like drywall and flooring, may be necessary to remediate heavy mold growth. 

Cleaning Contents and Belongings

SERVPRO professionals clean your furniture, decorative items, curtains and other restorable items affected by mold. They use a variety of cleaning techniques to clean and sanitize your belongings. They are also trained to remove odors and deodorize using fogging equipment. 

Restoration 

Depending on the level of mold damage, drywall, subfloors and other building materials may be removed. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting and installing new carpet; or it may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.

We understand mold and mold growth and have the training and equipment to remediate mold in your home or business. 

Rapid Response is CRUCIAL

2/25/2020 (Permalink)

Call the cleanup team that is faster to any size disaster.

The first 48 hours after a fire damage can make the difference between restoring versus replacing damaged property and personal belongings. Rapid response and timely mitigation can help prevent fire damage from creating long-term problems. 

Your local SERVPRO franchise professionals understand that returning to normal is your primary concern. SERVPRO response teams are trained in caring for both you and your property. By responding quickly with a full line of fire cleanup and restoration services, your local SERVPRO franchise professionals can help you get your home or business back up and running quickly and help protect your property and belongings. 

If your home or business suffers a fire damage, contact your local SERVPRO franchise professionals to help make it "Like it never even happened."

Improve Your Air Quality: Duct Cleaning Can Help!

2/25/2020 (Permalink)

The ventilation system is often the biggest culprit in poor indoor air quality, but you can help change that! Inspecting the ductwork in your home should be a high priority. In most cases, the HVAC system has been operating for some time without much attention. Dirty ducts can circulate odors, contaminants such as mold, and irritating dust throughout your home. 

A routine part of your local SERVPRO franchise professional's service is inspecting the heating, ventilation and air conditioning unit (HVAC). Keeping the HVAC and ductwork clean can potentially extend the life-span of the equipment by allowing it to operate at peak condition, which may help save you money. Duct cleaning may not always be necessary. SERVPRO franchise professionals will inspect your HVAC system and ductwork and make recommendations about the best way to address any indoor air quality concerns. This inspection can help save you money and provide peace of mind on the health of your HVAC system and ductwork. 

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

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

The SERVPRO duct cleaning system is proven and cost-efficient. Unlike the majority of duct cleaning services, SERVPRO franchise professionals use a portable ventilation and air duct cleaning system to examine ductwork and make a clean sweep, removing years of dust and grime. 

SERVPRO'S DUCT CLEANING SYSTEM:

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

To schedule an appointment, contact us today at 814-946-0119, or SERVPRO8464am@gmail.com

Fire Safety Means Accident Prevention

2/13/2020 (Permalink)

House fires can be extremely devastating. The National Fire Protection Association reports that there are as many as 400,000 house fires every year in the United States. Fortunately, there are things you can do to protect your home, and your loved ones, from the danger of fire. It’s important to educate everyone in the home about fire safety, particularly if you live in a dry, hot area, and make sure they are all aware of an emergency plan: how to escape, where to meet and how to stay safe while doing it. Always keep matches, lighters and flammable objects away from children and teach them about the dangers of “playing” with such items. Talking about fire safety is crucial to prevention.

Thomas Walker is the founder of Home Safety Hub, a platform dedicated to finding resources and educational materials to help keep people safe. Below are a few of the best tips he shared on how to keep your home flame-free.

1. Check your heating

Any type of heating within the home needs to be checked regularly, whether it’s a gas-fueled furnace or a kerosene heater. Fireplaces should be cleaned often, including the chimney. Electric floor heaters should have cords in perfect condition and should be kept away from curtains and thick carpeting. Never leave a kerosene heater or gas lamp going during the night.

2. It’s electric

Don’t neglect electrical outlets or allow them to become overloaded. If your home is older than ten years, it’s a good idea to have the electric wiring checked by a professional. Never place cords or surge protectors under rugs or furniture.

3. Sound the alarm

Check smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors every six months to ensure the batteries are in good working order. Make sure there is an alarm in every bedroom and in the kitchen and any garage space, along with fire extinguishers.

4. Cooking consciously

Never leave stovetop items unattended, especially if you have a gas range with an open flame. Turn the handles of pots and pans away from the walkway so that they can’t be accidentally knocked off the stove. Keep the stove clean at all times and de-grease often.

5. Have a plan

It’s crucial to have a plan on what to do in case of emergency and share it with your family, making sure everyone knows the safest way to escape in the event of a fire, where to meet if the family is separated, and who to call. When it comes to family members with disabilities, the plan is going to have to take these disabilities into account. It may change depending on what the disability is.

Be sure to read through The National Fire Protection Association’s guide to escape plans for people with disabilities, which offers tips covering the five general categories of disabilities (mobility, visual, hearing, speech and cognitive) as well as what it describes as the “four elements of evacuation information that occupants need,” which include notification, way finding, use of the way and assistance.

Remember that fire safety begins at home. Teaching your family about the best ways to protect themselves from fire will not only give you peace of mind, but it may come in handy someday as well. In addition to saving lives, it can save a lot of headaches. Even a fire that claims no casualties can leave quite a mess to clean up.

You Start It... We'll Help You Finish It

1/28/2020 (Permalink)

Structural integrity, materials, labor, safety, customer satisfaction and deadlines - the list goes on and on when building a commercial facility. The bottom line, however, is you are responsible for getting the doors open on time.

SERVPRO professionals can help you meet your deadlines by providing thorough post-construction services in a timely manner. These services include:

1. Post Construction Cleaning

Once the floors are down and the drywall is up, it's time to remove the debris and dirt in order to lay carpet, paint and decorate. SERVPRO professionals can provide the debris removal services to prepare the building for interior design.

2. Dehumidification and Drying

During the construction phase, a building can trap moisture. Excessive moisture could result in mold growth. If you think one of your projects may have a moisture issue, rely on SERVPRO professionals to provide the help you need eliminating moisture and preventing the potential for mold growth.

3. Final Cleaning

You want the facility to look its best when the doors open. SERVPRO professionals provide cleaning services to give the building that extra shine. Services include:

• Carpet, resilient and non-resilient floor prep . and finish
• Ceiling, walls and fixture cleaning
• Deodorization
• Air Duct Cleaning
• Debris Removal (if necessary)
• Window Cleaning

SERVPRO helps ensure your finished projects always look their best. Rely on your SERVPRO professionals to help ensure your post-construction cleanup gets done as quickly as possible. 

When Water Damage Strikes

1/23/2020 (Permalink)

The first 24 hours following a water loss are the most important in preventing secondary or permanent damage. Within four hours of receiving a loss notification, a SERVPRO professional will be on-site to help ensure a water damage is handled by completing the following steps.

1. Inspection

SERVPRO professionals will inspect affected areas to determine the extent of water damage and will review the inspection with you to answer any questions before beginning the work.

2. Emergency Services

SERVPRO professionals will take steps to help protect your home or business, as well as personal property and other contents, from further damage by extracting the excess water and preparing the area for drying. They will explain the needed emergency services to you step-by-step. 

3. Monitoring

To help ensure your home or business and belongings are dried to appropriate industry standards, a SERVPRO professional will monitor the drying process. The updates will be consistently communicated with you.

4. Restoration Services

SERVPRO professionals will repair structural materials, reinstall carpets and clean affected areas of your property and contents. A final walk-through of the jobsite will be conducted with you to help ensure the property was returned to its preloss condition. 

Emergency Water Damage Tips

1/23/2020 (Permalink)

For more information on recovering from water damage, contact the SERVPRO of Altoona professionals.

1. Shut off the water source, if possible, or contact a qualified professional to stop the water source.

2. Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building when access to the power distribution panel is safe from electrical shock.

3. Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting.

4. Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.

5. Move any paintings, art objects, computers, documents and other sensitive valuables to a dry place.

6. Do not enter affected areas if electrical outlets, switches, circuit breakers or electrical equipment are exposed to water. Always avoid electrical shock hazards.

7. Do not use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water! This could cause electrical shock or damage to the device.

8. Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet or enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water. 

When fire or water damage puts the things that matter most on the line, you need the very best help on the line as well. Call 814-946-0119 to get the team that's faster to any size disaster. We're a leader in giving control back to homeowners, property managers, and even entire communities, after the ravaging effects of water or fire. 

What to Do Until Help Arrives (Water Damage)

1/14/2020 (Permalink)

Help is on the way!

Water Damage From Clean Water

DO: 

• Shut off the source of water if possible or contact a qualified party to stop the water source.
• Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building, when access to the power distribution panel is safe from electrical shock.
• Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting.
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removing lamps and tabletop items.
• Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying. 
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
• Remove to a safe, dry place any paintings, art objects, computers, documents and other materials that are valuable or sensitive to moisture.
• Use wooden clothespins to keep furniture skirting off damp floors.
• Hang draperies with coated hangers to avoid contact with wet carpeting or floors.
• Hang furs and leather goods to dry separately at room temperature.

DON'T:

• Enter rooms with standing water where electrical shock hazards may exist.
• Enter affected areas if electrical outlets, switches, circuit breakers or electrical equipment are exposed to water. Always avoid electrical shock hazards.
• Leave books, newspapers, magazines or other colored items on wet carpets or floors to cause staining.
• Leave Oriental rugs or other colored rugs on wet wall-to-wall carpets to cause staining.
• Use your household vacuum cleaner.
• Use TVs or other appliances while standing on wet carpets or floors, especially not on wet concrete floors.
• Turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet or enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water.

Water Damage From Contaminated Water

DO:

• Avoid all contact with sewage and items contaminated by sewage.
• Wash your hands thoroughly after contact with contaminated items.

DON'T:

• Spread contaminated water by walking unnecessarily on damaged or wet areas.
• Turn on the HVAC system if there is a possibility of spreading contaminated air.
• Use household fans to dry the structure and spread contaminants.
• Use products for personal hygiene and cleanliness if exposed to the contaminated areas. 

Note: If exposed to harmful waste, OSHA recommends a post-exposure medial evaluation. Consult your local health department or physician.

Carbon Monoxide: A Silent Cold Weather Killer

1/9/2020 (Permalink)

You can't see or smell carbon monoxide, but at high levels it can kill a person in minutes. Often called the silent killer, carbon monoxide (or CO) is an invisible, odorless, colorless gas created when fuels, like gasoline, wood, coal, natural gas and propane burn incompletely. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, each year more than 400 Americans die from unintentional CO poisoning. It is estimated another 20,000 visit the emergency room, and more than 4,000 are hospitalized due to CO poisoning. All people and animals are at risk for CO poisoning, with some groups including unborn babies, infants and people with chronic heart disease, anemia, or respiratory problems being more susceptible to the effects of carbon monoxide. 

The symptoms of CO poisoning include health effects.

An excess of CO, leading to CO poisoning, can result from faulty furnaces or other heating appliances, portable generators, water heaters, clothes dryers, or idling cars left running in garages. Taking some basic, precautionary steps can help eliminate the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Protect yourself by reviewing the following tips provided by the United States Fire Administration.

• Have fuel-burning appliances, like oil and gas furnaces, gas or kerosene heaters, fireplaces, and wood stoves inspected by a trained professional every year. 
• Open the damper for proper ventilation before using a fireplace. Never use your oven or stovetop to heat your home.
• Make sure all fuel-burning equipment is vented to the outside to avoid CO poisoning. Keep the venting for exhaust clear and unblocked.
• If you need to warm a vehicle, remove it from the garage immediately after starting it. Never run a vehicle or other fueling engine or motor indoors, even if garage doors are open. Make sure the exhaust of a running vehicle is not blocked with snow, ice, or other materials.
• Make sure vents for the dryer, furnace, stove, and fireplace are clear of snow and other debris. 
• Only use barbecue grills outside, away from all doors, windows, vents, and other building openings. Some grills can produce CO gas. Never use grills inside the home or the garage, even if the doors are open.
• Use portable generators outdoors in well-ventilated areas away from all doors, windows, vents, and other building openings to prevent exhaust fumes from entering the home. 

For Homeowners, Putting Out a Fire Can Be Worse Than the Fire Itself

1/9/2020 (Permalink)

We're here to help.

A backdraft of emotions often sweeps over the homeowners after a fire ravages a home. Fear, uncertainty, stress and doubt about the future of the property can overwhelm the homeowner long after the flames have been extinguished and the smoke has cleared. 

The first 48 hours after a fire damage can make the difference between restoring versus replacing your property and personal belongings. So after the first wave of heroes have rescued the property, let us help you restore it. With the industry-approved training to employ rapid response, the utmost professionalism, cutting-edge technology and open communication, we strive to restore not only the home, but the customer's peace of mind, as well. Our professionals can help prevent fire damage from creating long-term problems. We provide timely response with mitigation services ranging from fire, smoke and soot removal to contents claims inventory and document restoration. These services help ensure your property, belongings and memories are restored to preloss condition when possible. 

So, before you risk doing further damage by attempting to clean up the damage yourself, call the fire damage cleanup and restoration professionals at 814-946-0119. 

What to Do Until Help Arrives (Fire & Smoke Damage)

1/9/2020 (Permalink)

Help is on the way!

The first 48 hours after a fire damage can make the difference between restoring versus replacing your property and personal belongings. 

DO: 

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery.
• Keep hands clean. Soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork.
• Place dry, colorfast towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas. 
• If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator completely and prop doors open to help prevent odor.
• Wipe soot from chrome on kitchen and bathroom faucets, trim and appliances, then protect these surfaces with a light coating of lubricant.
• If heat is off during winter, pour RV antifreeze in sinks, toilet bowls, holding tanks and tubs to avoid freezing pipes and fixtures.
• Wash both sides of leaves on house plants.
• Change HVAC filter, but leave system off until a trained professional can check the system. 
• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers to stop particles of soot from getting in or out of the HVAC system.

DON'T:

• Attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without first contacting SERVPRO.
• Attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture without first consulting SERVPRO.
• Attempt to clean any electrical appliances (TV sets, radios, etc.) that may have been close to fire, heat or water without first consulting an authorized repair service.
• Consume any food or beverages that may have been stored close to fire, heat or water. (They may be contaminated.)
• Turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. Wiring may be wet or damaged and cause electrical shock, and air movement may create secondary damage.
• Send garments to the dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set in smoke odor. 

2020 Resolution: Plan Ahead

1/7/2020 (Permalink)

Contact us to establish your Emergency Ready Profile and be "Ready for whatever happens" in 2020.

With each new year, many people resolve to better themselves or some part of their life. This year, make a resolution to be READY. No one ever plans on a disaster or a water or fire damage to strike, but you can prepare for it. The SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) will help ensure your business is "Ready for whatever happens" in 2020.

In the event of an emergency, the ERP can help minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action in place for your facility. The ERP is a comprehensive document containing critical information about your business, including emergency contacts, shut-off valve locations, and priority areas. The ERP also establishes your local SERVPRO franchise professional team as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider. The ERP is a no-cost assessment; all it requires is a little time, making it a great value that could save you time and money in the future. 

Preparation is key to making it through any size disaster, whether it is a small water leak, a large fire, or an area flood. Having a plan in place may help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive and get you back in your building faster following a disaster. Don't wait until disaster strikes, resolve to be ready by contacting your local SERVPRO franchise professionals today to establish your Emergency Ready Profile and be "Ready for whatever happens" in 2020. 

Build an Emergency Supply Kit

7/23/2019 (Permalink)

Weather-related disasters can happen at any time, which is why it is important to be prepared ahead of time. Being prepared means being equipped with the proper supplies you may need in the event of an emergency or disaster. SERVPRO encourages everyone to build an emergency supply kit. An emergency supply kit is a collection of basic items you and your family may need in the event of an emergency. Below is our recommended emergency supply kit.

• Water (one gallon per person per day)
• Food (non-perishable 3-day supply)
• Manual can opener
• Battery operated radio, preferably a NOAA Weather Radio
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• First aid kit
• Whistle to signal for help
• Clothing
• Dust masks or bandanas
• Plastic sheeting, garbage bags and duct tape
• Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
• Hygiene items
• Important documents; copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account information
• Cash
• Fire extinguisher
• Matches in a waterproof container

Contact the SERVPRO of Altoona professionals for more readiness tips and tools.

Tools to Keep You Safe

7/23/2019 (Permalink)

One of the best precautions you can take is to purchase a good quality weather radio. A weather radio is designed to alert you to potentially dangerous weather situations, like an approaching tornado. It allows you to be warned ahead of storms, providing you time to seek shelter. A weather radio is the most reliable source for weather alerts.

Weather radios have made many advancements over the years and are very affordable. Most basic weather radios average around $30 and can be programmed to only alert you for the weather alerts you choose. 

When shopping for a weather radio, look for the following key features.

• Reviewable alerts (you can scroll through alerts and turn off the siren for alerts you do not wish to hear).
• Specific Area Message Encoding (SAME) alert programming (alerts when specific counties are threatened, ensuring you only receive alerts for your county). 
• Ease of programming.

If you need help programming your weather radio, you can always contact your local National Weather Service Office or for additional information, including county codes for your state, visit the NOAA Weather Radio website at www.nws.noaa.gov/nwr. 

Importance of Water Damage Cleanup

7/23/2019 (Permalink)

There's no such thing as a small disaster, especially when the water you don't see contains bacteria or can cause mold, rot, and other unseen damage. Water damage can affect the value of your property. Before you get out the mop bucket and try to clean it yourself, consider how the damage can affect your commercial property.

SERVPRO professionals know how disruptive water damage can be for your business. SERVPRO professionals are trained and equipped to manage the drying process from start to finish. By utilizing the proper equipment and moisture measuring devices, your commercial building will be quickly and thoroughly dried to industry standards, which will help prevent secondary damages! With rapid response time and a full line of water cleanup and restoration services, SERVPRO professionals can help you regain control quickly, by helping to ensure your facility and its contents are properly dried, deodorized and protected. 

Before you risk further damaging the value of your commercial facility by attempting to clean the mess yourself, call your local water damage cleanup and restoration professionals at SERVPRO. 

Lightning Safety Tips

7/18/2019 (Permalink)

Lightning is one of the leading causes of weather-related fatalities. Though the odds of being struck by lightning in a given year are only around 1 in 500,000, some factors can put you at greater risk for being struck. Here are a few lightning safety tips. 

1. Be aware

Check the forecast before participating in outdoor activities. If it calls for thunderstorms, postpone your trip or activity, or make sure adequate safe shelter is available. 

2. Go indoors

Remember the phrase, "When thunder roars, go indoors." Find a safe, enclosed shelter when you hear thunder. Safe shelters include homes, offices, shopping centers, and hard-top vehicles with the windows rolled up.

3. Avoid windows, doors, porches, and concrete

Do not lie on concrete floors and avoid leaning on concrete walls. Lightning can travel through any metal wires or bars in concrete walls or flooring. 

4. Avoid water

Do not bathe, shower, wash dishes, or have any other contact with water during a thunderstorm because lightning can travel through a building's plumbing.

5. Avoid electronic equipment

Do not use computers, laptops, game systems, washers, dryers, stoves, or anything connected to an electrical outlet. Lightning can travel through electrical systems, radio and television reception systems, and any metal wires or bars in concrete walls or flooring. Equip homes and offices with whole-house surge protectors to protect appliances.

Call the Cleanup Team That's Faster to Any Size Disaster!

7/18/2019 (Permalink)

When disaster threatens, it is often too late to take the necessary steps to prepare homes, businesses and family members for the situation. Whether it's a blizzard, flood, hurricane or wildfire, disasters of all types often give little to no warning before they strike. The time to prepare for a storm is not as it approaches, the time to prepare is now. Whether you have damage caused by a hurricane, tornado, flash flood, or any other reason, SERVPRO professionals have the resources, experience and training to help get your doors reopened for business as soon as possible. SERVPRO provides 24-hour emergency service to handle any unexpected disaster. If your property suffers a fire or water damage, SERVPRO professionals will be ready to help you make it "Like it never even happened." 

Be Storm Smart and Storm Ready

7/18/2019 (Permalink)

Severe weather can happen any time, anywhere. Each year, Americans cope with an average of the following intense storms:

• 10,000 severe thunderstorms
• 5,000 floods or flash floods
• 1,000 tornadoes
• 2 landfalling deadly hurricanes

Approximately 98 percent of all presidentially declared disasters are weather-related, leading to around 500 deaths per year and nearly $15 billion in damage. Knowing your risk of severe weather, taking action and being an example are just a few steps you can take to be better prepared to save your life and assist in saving the lives of others.

1. Knowing your risk

The first step to becoming weather-ready is to understand the type of hazardous weather that can affect where you live and work, and how the weather could impact you, your business and your family. Check the weather forecast regularly, obtain a NOAA Weather Radio, and learn about Wireless Emergency Alerts. Severe weather comes in many forms and your shelter plan should include all types of local hazards.

2. Taking action

Take the next step in severe weather preparedness by creating a communications plan for your home and business. Put together or purchase an emergency kit. Keep important papers and valuables in a safe place. 

3. Being an example

Once you have taken action to prepare for severe weather, share your story with co-workers and family and friends on Facebook and other social media platforms. Your preparedness story will inspire others to do the same. 

Contact us to learn more and be "Ready for whatever happens!" 

Call the Pros at SERVPRO!

7/2/2019 (Permalink)

We won't let you down!

SERVPRO of Altoona is a full-service, state licensed contractor and trusted leader in the restoration industry for the past 20 years. We are here for all your remodeling needs, kitchens, baths, even exterior work. It’s no fun when disaster strikes, but the full-service staff from our trained technicians to our experienced construction crew is at your fingertips to guide you through any situation. We are an IICRC certified firm, and our technicians are highly dedicated and educated in the field with the proper resources to get the job done quickly and efficiently. We provide a 24-hour emergency response service and we are always ready to respond immediately. We are also part of a national network of over 1,700 franchises. Our promise to you is, “Like it never even happened.”

Water Restoration

7/2/2019 (Permalink)

Our team drying and restoring a water-damaged bedroom.

As a leader in the cleaning and restoration industry, SERVPRO strives to meet or exceed the expectations of every customer, client, or potential stakeholder that is involved with water damaged property. Every property, every project and every customer deserves excellence. Water intrusion in a home or business is a traumatic event. Effectively restoring a water-damaged building, and its contents, is a valuable service to the homeowner or business owner, as well as to the insurance industry. In residential homes, the normal lifestyle of residents is severely disrupted. This type of disruption creates stress and uncertainty for many individuals. In commercial properties, business interruption can be devastating and costly. A professional water restorer can provide guidance and assistance to help business owners make the best decisions through these difficult times. Excessive water and moisture in the indoor environment may pose a health risk for occupants, and if not resolved properly, water intrusions cause severe damages to structures and contents. These are many of the factors that drive our SERVPRO professionals to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Preventing Mold Growth

6/25/2019 (Permalink)

Summer is here! Unfortunately, that means rain is as well. Mold thrives in moist environments. We can help to identify what the moisture source was that led to the mold growth to avoid future mold issues. Mold remediation is significant because mold can cause serious health problems such as nasal stuffiness, throat irritation, coughing, eye irritation and skin irritation. In some cases, people can experience bleeding in the lungs and nose. While you may not be aware of dust mites because they are microscopic, many homes have them. You can prevent mold growth by keeping humidity levels as low as possible, preventing moisture with proper ventilation, drying wet areas immediately, and fixing any leaks in your home’s roof, wall or plumbing so mold doesn’t have moisture to grow.

SERVPRO Can Handle All Your Cleaning and Restoration Needs

6/19/2019 (Permalink)

The Duncansville Community Center was thrilled with the cleaning services we provided them.

Pictured is the Duncansville Community Center before and after we cleaned their bathrooms. SERVPRO employees are intensively trained in the technologies of cleaning and maintenance, providing the right answers to virtually every cleaning problem. From the smallest office to the largest mall, SERVPRO will customize a program to fit your needs. Below are the cleaning services that SERVPRO provides.

1. Floor Care

A complete program to keep all your floor surfaces looking new:

• Vinyl
• Terrazzo
• Marble
• Wood
• Concrete
• All other specialty floors

2. Furniture/Partitions Fabric Wall Coverings

Based on the type of upholstery, from everyday durables to expensive satins, we pre-test and select the safest method of cleaning. SERVPRO furniture cleaning methods include:

• Jet Extraction
• Dry Cleaning
• Showcase
• Combination (dry & wet)
• Shampoo

3. Carpet Care

Customized systems designed to extend the life and beauty of your carpets.

• Cleaning
• Maintenance
• Spotting
• Soil & Static Protection

4. Drapery Cleaning

Maintain Security! Draperies can be cleaned without ever leaving your windows. Don't submit your company to needless exposure from outside.

5. Acoustical Ceiling Cleaning

A safe, simple and effective way to maintain your ceiling's acoustical value and light reflection.

6. Fire Proofing

With SERVPRO's fire protection application, even a torch won't ignite valuable textiles and other porous materials.

7. Fire & Water Damage Restoration

For 30 years, SERVPRO franchises have led the disaster restoration industry with quality and 24 hour emergency service.

• Water Damage Cleanup
• Fire Damage
• Smoke & Soot Removal
• Deodorization
• Dehumidification Specialists

ADDITIONAL SERVICES AVAILABLE:

• Janitorial Services
• Post Construction Clean-up
• Mildew Treatments
• Duct Cleaning & Sealing
• Wood Furniture Cleaning
• Wall Cleaning
• Masonry & Stone Clean-up
• Vandalism Clean-up

MARKETS SERVED

SERVPRO is proud to have been selected to provide cleaning services for a wide variety of building types, including:

• Commercial buildings
• Industrial plants
• Distribution centers
• Transportation terminals
• Hotels
• Government facilities
• Research facilities
• Schools
• Malls and other retail spaces
• Supermarkets
• Churches
• Construction sites

3 Reasons to Get Professional Carpet Cleaning

5/28/2019 (Permalink)

Hire the experts!

1. Health Benefits

Carpets trap dust particles, bacteria, and allergens found in the home, which have been linked to health effects. If these contaminants are not removed from the carpet, they can cause a plethora of health effects. Vacuuming alone cannot eliminate such contaminants. They can only be removed through professional grade products used to clean and sanitize your home, which are provided by a professional cleaning service.

2. Prevention

Professional carpet cleaning can help prevent numerous serious problems. It clears out infestations by dust mites. While you may not be aware of dust mites because they are microscopic, many homes have them. Dust mites may cause asthma and allergy exacerbations, and professionals have the products essential to eliminate such infestations. Also, carpets easily develop mold, especially in areas with high humidity levels. When moisture, such as rain and snow, is being tracked in the house, it gets driven into the carpet fibers and can cause mold to grow. Routine professional carpet cleaning can help prevent the growth of mold in your carpet.

3. Smell

Carpet tends to trap odors, especially if the homeowner has pets. Professionals can remove the toughest stains and odors from your carpet.