Preparing for Landslides. Tips for Homeowners

9/12/2023 (Permalink)

Being prepared for a landslide is crucial to homeowners in West Jordan.

Living in the Pacific Northwest offers breathtaking landscapes and picturesque views, but it also comes with the risk of natural disasters, such as landslides. With its hilly terrain and heavy rainfall, the region is susceptible to landslides, which can cause significant damage to homes and pose a threat to residents. In this blog post, we will discuss essential tips for homeowners to prepare for landslides in the Northwest.

Understand the Risks

The first step in preparing for landslides is to understand the risks specific to your area. Consult with local authorities, geological surveys, or environmental agencies to determine if your property is located in a high-risk landslide zone. These organizations provide valuable information about the history of landslides in your area and can help you assess the potential risks to your home.

Education is key when it comes to landslides. Learn about the signs that indicate a landslide may occur, such as sudden or gradual changes in landscape or the appearance of cracks on the ground or walls. Teach your family members, especially children, about what to do in the event of a landslide, including evacuation routes and safe areas to seek shelter.

Create an Emergency Plan

Developing an emergency plan is essential for any natural disaster, including landslides. Create a plan that outlines evacuation routes, designated meeting points, and a communication strategy for your family. Assign responsibilities to each family member, ensuring that everyone knows their role during an emergency situation. Practice your emergency plan regularly to ensure that everyone is familiar with the protocols.

Take proactive steps to secure your property and minimize the risk of landslides. Clear any debris or loose vegetation from slopes surrounding your home, as these can contribute to soil erosion. Plant native species or install retaining walls to help stabilize the ground. Ensure that your property's drainage system is well-maintained and functioning properly, diverting water away from vulnerable areas.

Monitor the Environment

Regularly monitor the environment for signs of instability. Keep an eye out for changes in water flow, excessive soil erosion, or new cracks appearing on the ground or walls. If you notice any of these signs, consult with a geotechnical professional or local authorities to assess the situation and determine appropriate actions.

Stay informed about local weather conditions and any landslide warnings issued by authorities. Pay attention to rainfall levels, as heavy or prolonged periods of rain can increase the risk of landslides. Subscribe to local emergency notification systems and download relevant apps that provide real-time updates about weather conditions and landslide alerts.

Protect Your Valuables

Take steps to protect your valuable belongings from potential landslide damage. Store important documents, such as insurance policies and legal documents, in a waterproof and fireproof safe. Keep a backup of important digital files and store it away from your home. Consider obtaining landslide insurance to secure adequate coverage for potential damages.

Being prepared for landslides is crucial for homeowners in the Northwest. Remember to consult with local authorities or professionals for specific guidance tailored to your area. By taking these precautions, you can take an active role in safeguarding your home and reducing the potential impact of landslides on your community.

Leading causes of Home Fires. Stay Informed and Stay Safe

8/9/2023 (Permalink)

Protect your home from fires by being aware of what can cause fire damage.

Home fires can be devastating, causing not only property damage but also posing a significant risk to the lives of you and your loved ones. Understanding the leading causes of home fires is essential for prevention and ensuring the safety of your home. In this blog post, we will explore some of the most common causes of home fires and provide tips on how to prevent them.

Cooking Accidents

Cooking is a common activity in every household, making it one of the leading causes of home fires. Unattended cooking, grease fires, and misuse of cooking equipment can all lead to a dangerous situation. To prevent cooking-related fires, never leave the kitchen unattended while cooking, ensure that flammable items are kept away from heat sources, and have a fire extinguisher readily accessible.

Heating Equipment

Heating equipment, including space heaters, chimneys, and furnaces, accounts for a significant number of home fires. Improper use, lack of maintenance, or malfunctioning equipment can lead to fires. To avoid heating-related fires, make sure to follow manufacturer instructions, keep flammable items away from heating sources, and have your heating equipment inspected regularly.

Electrical Malfunctions

Faulty electrical wiring, overloaded circuits, and misused electrical equipment all contribute to electrical fires. It's important to have your electrical system regularly inspected by a professional to ensure its safety. Avoid overloading outlets, use proper extension cords, and replace damaged cords or appliances promptly to reduce the risk of electrical fires.

Smoking

Smoking materials, such as cigarettes, cigars, and pipes, are a leading cause of fatal home fires. Smoking inside, falling asleep with lit cigarettes, and improperly disposing of smoking materials can all result in a fire. To prevent smoking-related fires, avoid smoking indoors, use deep ashtrays, ensure proper extinguishment of smoking materials, and never smoke under the influence of medication or alcohol.

Candles

Candles may create a cozy atmosphere, but they can also present a fire hazard if not used safely. Never leave candles unattended, keep them away from flammable items, use sturdy candle holders, and consider using flameless alternatives, such as battery-operated candles or wax warmers.

Flammable Liquids

Storing flammable liquids improperly can lead to catastrophic fires. Keep flammable liquids in designated containers, away from heat sources, and in well-ventilated areas. Follow storage and handling instructions carefully to prevent accidents.

Candles may create a warm and inviting atmosphere, but if not used with caution, they can quickly become a fire risk. Always keep candles within sight, away from flammable materials, and extinguish them before leaving the room or going to sleep.

Faulty or Misused Appliances

Appliances that are defective, damaged, or misused can be fire hazards. Regularly inspect your appliances for any signs of wear or damage, and follow manufacturer instructions for proper use and maintenance.

Awareness and prevention are key to reducing the risk of home fires. By understanding the leading causes of home fires and implementing safety measures, you can protect your home and loved ones. Stay vigilant, practice fire safety habits, and consider installing smoke detectors and fire extinguishers in key areas of your home. Remember, fire prevention starts with you.

How to Take Care of Pipe Breaks: Essential Steps for Damage Control

7/27/2023 (Permalink)

Dealing with a pipe break requires action to minimize water damage.

Dealing with a pipe break in your home or business can be a stressful and potentially damaging situation. A burst or leaking pipe can lead to water damage, property loss, and disruption of daily activities. Knowing how to take immediate action is crucial to minimize the impact of a pipe break and prevent further damage. In this blog, we will outline essential steps to help you take care of pipe breaks effectively.

Shut off the Water

The first and most crucial step when dealing with a pipe break is to shut off the water supply. Locate the main water shut-off valve, typically found near the water meter or where the main water line enters the building. Turn the valve clockwise to stop the flow of water and prevent additional flooding.

Assess the Damage

Once the water supply is shut off, assess the extent of the damage caused by the pipe break. Check for standing water, visible leaks, and any signs of structural damage. Document the damage by taking photographs or videos for insurance purposes.

Drain the Pipes

To minimize further water damage, drain the remaining water from the pipes. Open all faucets and flush toilets to empty the water lines. This step helps alleviate pressure within the system and reduces the risk of additional leaks or bursts.

Remove Excess Water

Using mops, towels, or a wet/dry vacuum, remove standing water from affected areas. Promptly drying out the space helps prevent mold growth, water damage to flooring or walls, and potential structural issues.

Call a Professional

Contact a licensed plumber or restoration professional to assess the pipe break, repair or replace the damaged pipe, and address any related issues. Experienced professionals have the expertise and tools to handle pipe repairs efficiently and effectively.

Mitigate Water Damage

Take steps to mitigate water damage while waiting for professional assistance. Use fans or dehumidifiers to promote airflow and accelerate the drying process. Remove wet materials, such as carpets or furniture, to prevent further damage and potential mold growth.

Document and Notify

Document all damage, including photographs, videos, and written descriptions, to support insurance claims. Notify your insurance company as soon as possible to initiate the claims process and follow their instructions for filing a claim.

Preventive Measures

After the pipe break is resolved, consider taking preventive measures to avoid future incidents. Insulate exposed pipes, especially in areas prone to freezing temperatures, and consider installing water leak detection devices to provide early warning of potential leaks.

Dealing with a pipe break requires swift and decisive action to minimize water damage and protect your property. By shutting off the water supply, assessing the damage, draining the pipes, removing excess water, and contacting professionals for repairs, you can effectively manage a pipe break situation. Prompt action, documentation, and insurance claim filing are crucial for a smooth recovery process. Remember to take preventive measures to reduce the risk of future pipe breaks and ensure the long-term integrity of your plumbing system.

6 Essential Steps to Take After Storm Damages Your Property

6/11/2023 (Permalink)

Taking the appropriate steps to prevent storm damage and minimize recovery is important to protect your property.

Natural disasters such as storms can cause significant damage to buildings and properties. If your building has been impacted by a storm, it's essential to take immediate action to assess and address any damage. Here are some steps to take after a storm.

Safety first

Ensure the safety of everyone in the building before attempting to assess the damage. If there are any hazards, such as downed power lines or gas leaks, evacuate the building and call the appropriate authorities.

Document the damage

Take photos or videos of the damage to provide evidence for insurance claims. Record the date and time of the damage and any relevant details, such as wind speeds or rainfall amounts.

Secure the building

Board up broken windows, tarp over damaged roofs, and secure any openings to prevent further damage or unauthorized entry.

Contact your insurance company

Contact your insurance provider as soon as possible to report the damage and begin the claims process. Provide them with photos and other documentation to support your claim.

Hire a professional restoration company

A professional restoration company can help assess the damage and develop a plan for restoring the building to its preloss condition. They can also help mitigate further damage and prevent mold growth.

Clean up debris

Remove any debris or fallen trees from the building's surroundings to prevent further damage or injuries. Take steps to prepare your building for future storms, such as reinforcing windows and doors, securing outdoor items, and trimming trees. Keep track of all expenses related to the storm damage, such as repairs, restoration costs, and temporary living arrangements. This will help with insurance claims and may be tax-deductible.

It's worth noting that some types of storm damage may not be immediately visible or apparent. For example, water damage may not become apparent until days or weeks after a storm, which can lead to mold growth and further damage. It's important to thoroughly inspect the building for any signs of damage, including water stains, musty odors, or warped walls or floors. If you suspect water damage, it's essential to contact a professional restoration company that specializes in water damage mitigation and restoration. They can help identify and address any underlying issues and prevent further damage to the building. By taking a proactive approach to storm damage, you can help ensure the safety and well-being of everyone in the building and minimize the long-term impact of the storm.

In conclusion, storm damage can be devastating, but taking these steps can help you minimize the damage and begin the process of recovery. By prioritizing safety, documenting the damage, contacting insurance, hiring professionals, cleaning up debris, keeping records, and preparing for future storms, you can help protect your building and its occupants.

SERVPRO'S 2023 Firefighter Challenge is in July!

6/6/2023 (Permalink)

Support local first responders and heroes during our SERVPRO Firefighter Challenge in July! It will be in Murray Park.

Who will bring the Best of Utah 2023 trophy back to their station this year? We'll find out on July 19-22nd, when Utah's best firefighters will bring the heat at this year's SERVPRO Firefighter Challenge! It’s going to be an exciting and unforgettable event  as we cheer on our brave firefighters in the Firefighter West Region Challenge at Murray Park. 

As a title sponsor of the event, SERVPRO corporate and many SERVPRO’s in Utah came together to sponsor a Make-A-Wish child and grant them their wish! The Make-A-Wish Foundation is the beneficiary for the Firefighter Challenge. As part of the sponsoring SERVPRO's, SERVPRO of West Jordan is excited to celebrate our local first responders! 

During this event, firefighters from all over Utah will display true bravery and teamwork in the SERVPRO Firefighter Challenge. This challenge includes a set of obstacles specifically made for firefighters. These firefighters wear their full protective gear, use their tools and compete to be the quickest and most thorough firefighters in Utah! Come witness their determination and courage as they battle for the trophy. 

We are currently preparing for the event and looking for volunteers to help make this weekend a success! Click the link here to register: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/9040e4aada922aa8-SERVPRO#/

We can’t wait to come together to support and honor local heroes as we cheer them on to victory!

Keeping Your Employees Safe During Mold Removal: Tips and Best Practices

5/17/2023 (Permalink)

Take steps to ensure your workspace is mold free.

Mold growth in the workplace can be a serious issue, and it's important to address it promptly and effectively. However, mold remediation can also be a hazardous process, and it's essential to take steps to keep your employees safe during the removal process. In this blog post, we will discuss some tips and best practices to help ensure the safety of your employees during mold removal.

Conduct a thorough risk assessment

Before any mold removal work begins, it's essential to conduct a thorough risk assessment of the affected area. This assessment should identify any potential hazards, such as electrical wiring or plumbing, that could pose a risk to workers during the removal process. It's also important to assess the potential exposure of workers to mold spores and other contaminants.

Provide appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE)

Personal protective equipment (PPE) is essential for keeping workers safe during mold removal. The type of PPE required will depend on the level of risk identified in the risk assessment. At a minimum, workers should wear gloves, eye protection, and respiratory protection to prevent exposure to mold spores and other contaminants.

Ensure proper ventilation

Proper ventilation is essential during mold removal to prevent the buildup of mold spores and other contaminants in the air. This can be achieved through the use of industrial-strength fans or through the use of negative air pressure, which involves creating a vacuum to draw contaminated air out of the affected area.

Train workers in proper mold removal techniques

Proper training is essential for ensuring that workers understand how to remove mold safely and effectively. This includes understanding how to use PPE properly, how to handle contaminated materials, and how to dispose of moldy materials safely. Workers should also be trained in the proper use of cleaning agents and equipment.

Follow industry best practices

There are established best practices for mold removal, and it's important to follow these guidelines to ensure the safety of workers. These guidelines include using appropriate cleaning agents, sealing off the affected area, and disposing of contaminated materials properly.

Monitor worker exposure

During the mold removal process, it's important to monitor the exposure of workers to mold spores and other contaminants. This can be achieved through the use of air monitoring equipment, which can detect the presence of mold spores in the air. Monitoring worker exposure can help identify any potential risks and allow for appropriate measures to be taken to protect workers.

In conclusion, mold remediation can be a hazardous process, but there are steps you can take to keep your employees safe during the removal process. Conducting a thorough risk assessment, providing appropriate PPE, ensuring proper ventilation, training workers in proper mold removal techniques, following industry best practices, and monitoring worker exposure can all help ensure the safety of workers during mold removal. By taking these steps, you can help ensure that your workplace is a safe and healthy environment for all employees.

Restoring Your Life: The Importance of Content Cleaning in the Aftermath of Fire Damage

5/6/2023 (Permalink)

Content cleaning is a crucial step in the process of restoring your belongings after a fire.

As a homeowner or business owner, one of the most devastating things that can happen to your property is a fire. In addition to the physical damage caused by the flames, smoke and soot can also wreak havoc on your space. After the fire has been put out and everyone is safe, the next step is to begin the process of cleaning up and restoring your property. One crucial step in this process is content cleaning.

What is content cleaning?

Content cleaning is the process of cleaning and restoring the personal belongings and other contents of a property that have been affected by fire damage. This can include everything from furniture and electronics to clothing and other sentimental items. The goal of content cleaning is to salvage as many items as possible and return them to their pre-fire condition.

Assess the Damage

The first step in content cleaning is to assess the damage and determine which items are salvageable. This is typically done by a professional restoration company, who will inspect each item and determine the best course of action. Items that are severely damaged may need to be disposed of, while others can be restored through cleaning and other techniques.

Clean and Restore

Once the items have been assessed, the next step is to clean and restore them. This can involve a variety of techniques, including dry cleaning, wet cleaning, and specialized treatments for electronics and other sensitive items. The restoration company will work carefully to ensure that each item is cleaned and restored to the best of their ability.

It's important to note that content cleaning is not just about salvaging personal belongings. It's also a vital step in the overall restoration process. Smoke and soot can penetrate deep into walls, floors, and other surfaces, and can continue to cause damage if not properly cleaned. By thoroughly cleaning and restoring all contents of the property, restoration companies can ensure that no trace of smoke or soot remains.

Restore Property

In addition to content cleaning, there are other steps that can be taken to restore a property after fire damage. This can include structural repairs, odor removal, and mold remediation. It's important to work with a professional restoration company that has experience in all aspects of fire damage restoration to ensure that your property is restored to its pre-fire condition.

In conclusion, content cleaning is a crucial step in the process of restoring a property after fire damage. By carefully assessing and restoring personal belongings and other contents, restoration companies can ensure that no trace of smoke or soot remains, and that the property is fully restored to its pre-fire condition. If you've experienced fire damage, it's important to work with a professional restoration company to ensure that your property is properly restored and that you can get back to your normal life as quickly as possible.

I have water dripping from my ceiling

3/4/2023 (Permalink)

A water leak from upstairs shower can leave water damage to the main floor.

If you have water dripping from your ceiling, it could be a sign of a serious problem that could result in thousands of dollars worth of damage. Water damage is one of the most common reasons for calling in a professional restoration company. Finding out the cause of a water loss can help save you thousands of dollars on your water damage to prevent as much damage as possible. You must notify your insurance company and get an inspection done as soon as possible.

What to do?

If you see water dripping from your ceiling, it's important to act quickly. Water damage can be serious and even cause mold growth if not taken care of immediately. That's why we recommend hiring a professional like SERVPRO to help you with your problem.

SERVPRO of West Jordan is the best company for the job. We have experienced technicians who know how to handle these situations without damaging anything else in your home or business space. They'll also make sure that all traces of moisture are removed before leaving so that there isn't any chance for mold or secondary damages.

Notify Insurance Company

You should notify your insurance company immediately. If you are not covered for water damage and need to pay out of pocket, call a professional to make the repairs. If you are covered, file a claim with your insurance company as soon as possible so they can process it quickly and send someone out to assess the damage.

Attic Leaks

If you're having problems with water dripping from your light fixtures and ceilings, it's possible that there are leaks in the attic. Leaks can cause mold to grow in your home and cause secondary damages if not taken care of quickly, mold can lead to structural damage.

Pipe Repair

The best way to prevent water damage is to make sure you have a plumber inspect all pipes before any major remodeling projects. A professional can check for leaks, damage and other issues that may be causing your light fixtures to drip. If you notice dripping from a light fixture, turn off the power at the circuit breaker or fuse box and contact us immediately so that we can help with repairs as soon as possible.

Water damage can be a big headache, but it's not something you have to tackle alone. If you have any questions about your insurance policy or how to handle water damage in your home, contact SERVPRO of West Jordan today.

Basic Facts About Mold

2/13/2023 (Permalink)

Here are some basic facts about mold.

Molds are fungi that grow on organic matter, such as wood and food. They're common in nature, but they can also grow in your home or business if you have moisture problems. Here are some basic facts about mold:

Mold is a type of fungi.

Mold is a type of fungus. The word “fungus” comes from Latin, meaning “mushroom” or “sponge.” Fungi are eukaryotic organisms that do not have chlorophyll and produce spores for reproduction. They grow in either the presence or absence of light, depending on the species and environmental conditions.

Fungi are classified as protists (single-celled organisms), but they don't fit neatly into this category because they have characteristics that are not found in other protists (like plants).

Molds are found indoors and outdoors.

Molds are found indoors and outdoors. The spores can be found on surfaces, in the air, and even in the soil.

Mold spores can be found everywhere: on walls, windowsills, furniture, and other products you use daily. The spores can easily spread from surfaces into the air. This is how easy it is to spread mold within your home. Mold spores can easily be introduced into your home through your open doors, windows, and even your HVAC unit. The presence of mold spores does not mean that you have a damaging mold infestation in your home or business. It isn't until the spores are introduced to a source of water, such as a water leak or excess humidity, that the mold can begin to grow, spread, and cause serious damage.

How common is mold?

Mold is very common in homes and businesses. In fact, it's estimated that anywhere from 40-50% of homes have mold problems. Mold can be found in many areas of your home or business, including:

• Carpeting and fabric
• Upholstery
• Woodwork or other porous surfaces

Mold can also grow on food. If you find mold growing on fruits or vegetables in your refrigerator, throw them away immediately.

How to keep mold out of your home or business?

Though it is impossible to completely prevent the chances of a mold infestation breaking out on your property, there are several steps to take to reduce the risks of a mold infestation, including:

• Keep the humidity in your home below 50%.
• Clean up leaks quickly.
• Keep your building well-ventilated.
• Keep humid areas such as bathrooms, kitchens, attics, and basements well-ventilated.

Be careful!

If you do find mold, it's important to act immediately. Mold can spread quickly and cause serious damage if left untreated. The best course of action after discovering a mold infestation is to call a professional for help.

Mold is a type of fungus that grows on decaying organic matter. It can also grow indoors and outdoors, but when it does grow indoors it can be damaging to your property and belongings. If you see mold anywhere in your home or business, you should call a professional for help as quickly as possible in order to prevent any further damage.

Water Damage in the Basement - What To Do

1/23/2023 (Permalink)

Water damage is a common problem in basements, but it can be dangerous if left untreated.

The water damage in your basement can cause a lot of problems. It can destroy your appliances, furniture, and personal belongings, and it can also lead to mold growth and structural damage. This article aims to provide you with some basic tips on how to identify water damage in the basement so that the issue gets addressed right away before it becomes worse. 

Signs of Basement Water Damage

Water damage in basements can be quite serious. If you notice any of the signs above, contact your local foundation contractor right away.

The sooner you address the problem, the easier it will be to fix. In some cases, however, the damage is already too far along for any simple repairs. If you notice that your basement has a persistent musty smell or if there are visible signs of water damage in your walls (such as cracks), call a professional right away.

Drying and Cleaning the Basement

Some basic steps to cleaning and drying out your basement after a water loss include: 

• Remove all damaged materials, including wood, furniture, and carpeting.
• Clean up as much moisture as possible.
• If you believe that mold has started to grow in your basement, contact your local mold remediation specialist.

Mold Removal in the Basement

The basement is often a haven for mold. Water is the main cause of mold in basements, and it's common for water damage to occur throughout the year. Basement mold removal should be done by a professional, as well as any repairs necessary to prevent further issues with moisture penetration.

Mold can also be found in bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms. These are all areas that have water sources and humidity levels that are conducive to mold growth.

It's important to act quickly. 

Water damage can cause lasting problems if left unaddressed, so it's important to act quickly. The longer the water is left to dry, the more damage it can cause and the greater the chance of mold growth. If you notice a leak or flooding in your basement, call a professional immediately. 

There are many reasons your basement could be leaking. If you have a sump pump, it may not be working properly. A faulty pump can cause water to back up and leak into the basement, or it can fail altogether if neglected. If your sump pump is working but doesn't have enough power to drain the water away quickly enough, the excess can end up in your basement. Other causes of water damage in the basement include inclement weather such as flooding or heavy rain, as well as pipe and appliance leaks.

Water damage is a common problem in basements, but it can be dangerous if left untreated. If you’ve noticed any signs of water damage or mold growth in your basement, contact us as soon as possible for help with cleaning and drying out your space.