Overcoming Threatening Flood Damage to Bellevue Homes

8/8/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO flood damage restoration specialists have the training and experience for all phases needed for your home.

The Focuses of Flood Damage Cleanup

Flooding is a fast-paced threat to your home. As leading restoration professionals, we have specific mitigation and recovery objectives that must begin as soon as possible to limit out-of-pocket expenses. Emergency services can include:

• Containing the impact
• Repairing structural concerns
• Protecting personal belongings
• Cleaning exposed surfaces
• Drying the structure

Containing the Floodwater

Containment is one of the initial focuses of cleaning up flood damage in Bellevue homes and businesses. Preventing surface water movement and migrating moisture protects more of the structure and reduces the possibility of widespread microbial growth and contamination.

Preventing Harm to Contents

Personal belongings can quickly find themselves in the damage path of migrating flood loss effects. Standing water and potential contaminants can render contents unsalvageable, so prioritizing relocation and preserving these objects is vital. 

Emergency Repairs and Building

Our general contractor license allows us to complete needed controlled demolition and emergency repairs, which begins as soon as we arrive. We can reconstruct damaged utilities or seal/patch over structural vulnerabilities allowing floodwater penetration. Repairs might include rebuilding the roof, replacing siding, or patching breaches in the foundational masonry.

Effective Drying for Flood-Damaged Materials

Drying is one of the foundational elements of every water and flood damage scenario. We have hundreds of air movers and dehumidifiers specifically tasked with evaporating surface moisture and managing humidity. We can also utilize portable heaters to increase the temperature of wet surfaces for faster drying and a greater relative humidity capacity in the structure.

Surface Cleaning and Disinfection

Cleaning up impacted surfaces can be one of the best methods of combatting the possible contamination associated with flooding. We have potent disinfectant agents, chlorines, and phenolics to eliminate surface soiling and microbial threats.

Flooding can be a compromising disaster for your home. Our SERVPRO of Bellevue West team gets cleanup started as soon as we arrive. Call now at (425) 454-3900.

Clyde Hill Homes Need Flood Damage Drying from Air Movers

8/8/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO IICRC certified technicians are ready at a moment's notice. Call now!

Flood Damage Is Mitigated with Air Movers

Flooding can be a widespread concern for your residence, especially when building materials and contents begin to absorb this migrating moisture. It is imperative to start drying approaches as soon as possible, and air movers are among the most important tools for this process. Varieties of this equipment include:

• Axial
• Centrifugal
• Low-Profile

Continuous Beneficial Airflow

The most direct benefit of air movers in recovering flood damage in Clyde Hill homes is the manipulation of air. Many materials are affected by saturation and absorption, but air movers provide a steady dispersal of focused warm air against damp surfaces to evaporate the moisture. SERVPRO technicians can frequently move these high-velocity units to provide a stable output of effective evaporative drying.

Raising Vapor Pressure

Vapor pressure is an essential principle of effective drying in residence. Increasing the temperature in the affected room by using air movers to circulate the warmth increases the drying process overall in the designated workspace. When temperatures of trapped moisture increase, kinetic energy and molecular movement also increase. Vapor pressure increases in this scenario as more efficient vaporization of surface moisture occurs.

Removing the Vapor Barrier

When evaporation occurs, a natural barrier of cool air begins to form just above the material's surface. This boundary can prevent efficient drying. Air movers can help by blasting through this cool air barrier and continuing to impact the underlying wet surface. Centrifugal units are specifically designed to focus a blast of warm air at a designated point on the wall or ceiling to overcome this challenging layer.

Air movers are one of the most common drying tools used by our SERVPRO of Bellevue West team when removing surface water and trapped moisture. We can overcome several obstacles in the drying process with various types of these units. Do not wait to get mitigation started after a flood - call us now at (425) 454-3900.

Remediating Flood Damage to Hardwood Flooring in Clyde Hill

5/19/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is prepared with restoration equipment and experienced technicians. Call today (425) 454-3900.

Flood Damage to Clyde Hill Hardwood Floors Requires Specialized Restoration Methods 

Not all building materials react the same way to floodwaters when they impact Clyde Hill homes. Some weather them better than others, while different ones may be far less resilient. Fortunately, for homeowners with hardwood flooring, hardwoods tend to withstand high moisture situations better than other things. However, special techniques are necessary to remediate their damage. 

The Clyde Hill flood damage experts at SERVPRO routinely encounter flood-fouled hardwood flooring and successfully restore it. These efforts are all a part of our emergency water damage services, including everything from water clean-up and water damage repairs to biohazard remediation. With that said, our hardwood restoration methods focus on preventing moisture-related buckling and warping from becoming permanent. In working toward this goal, we:

• Try to dry floors as soon as possible, lowering the relative humidity to between 30-45%, with air movers strategically positioned to circulate air above and under flooring simultaneously.
• Raise interior air temperatures to facilitate evaporation once floor moisture levels are under 16%
• Remove or penetrate floor finishes acting as vapor barriers with pin rollers to enable thorough drying.
• Employ state-of-the-art Injectidry systems to force air underneath flooring and dry it from below 

After all of these drying actions have been taken, SERVPRO technicians patiently wait until moisture levels in the hardwood decline below 12%. Once this benchmark is reached, they carefully sand down all remaining cupping and warping. Then, they refinish the sanded flooring to look almost like new. 

Keeping this information in mind, it is no wonder why SERVPRO of Bellevue West is considered one of the best flood damage remediators in the Northwest region. So, whenever your residence suffers a flooding event, rest assured that your neighbors at SERVPRO can help. Call us anytime at (425) 454-3900 for assistance.

Wall Type Affects the Speed of Bellevue Flood Damage Cleanup

5/5/2022 (Permalink)

There is no job too big or small for your local SERVPRO of Bellevue West.

Flood Damage Remediation in Bellevue Is More Difficult in Homes with Cinder Blocks 

Flooding is a persistent problem in the notoriously rainy Northwest, and the Bellevue area is no exception. As a result, residents are sometimes faced with the difficulties of cleaning up flood damage. Unfortunately, the associated drying process can be significantly impacted by the building materials used to construct your home’s walls.

SERVPRO understands the particular troubles involved in effectively remediating flood damage in Bellevue homes with cinder block walls. Block walls can seriously complicate work such as biohazard remediation, basement flooding cleanup, water removal services, and water damage repairs. With that said, our highly-skilled technicians know the various issues that can slow the restoration process and can address them properly. Some of the particular situations they have encountered that hinder the drying process in cinder blocks are:

• Old block walls that have absorbed considerable amounts of environmental moisture over the course of several years or even decades
• Long-standing floodwaters that have had time to permeate the cells of cinder block structural elements thoroughly
• Blocks covered in semi-gloss or gloss paint that has trapped flood-related moisture within walls and made standard drying techniques ineffective.
• Fiberglass, foam, cellulosic, or vermiculite insulation-filled block walls are slow to remediate because internal dry air circulation is difficult to maintain at levels necessary to return their moisture readings to normal.
• Walls will concrete bond beams that slow or otherwise alter airflow within block cavities. 

SERVPRO solves most of these particular problems simply by drilling holes in a mortar joint near the base of impacted walls, using non-penetrating moisture meters to determine when drying is complete, and later patching up the drilled holes. 

Considering all of this, remember to contact SERVPRO of Bellevue West at (425) 454-3900 when you need specialty flood damage assistance. We are always ready to answer your call.

Extracting Flood Damage in Clyde Hill Basements

4/21/2022 (Permalink)

When flooding hits your area, you need to call the technicians at SERVPRO of Bellevue West.

Extraction and Cleaning of Flood Damage Are Pressing Needs in Clyde Hill

The basement of your Clyde Hill home can quickly suffer flood damage when intruding water passes through vulnerabilities in your home's structural design. The age of elements like masonry units of the foundation can allow the penetration of this floodwater. Several immediate steps can help overcome flood damage and mitigate loss for your home, especially for contents stored in this lower level.

Standing Water Threats 

The first thing property owners notice about flood damage and Clyde Hill homes is the standing water concerns. Water can heap up quickly at this lower level, reaching several inches or even feet in depth. We have multiple water removal units capable of managing the concerns of pooling floodwater, especially powerful units like truck-mount extractors that also collect debris.

Drying With Air Movers

Air movers are among the most powerful tools in our inventory to manage moisture and water concerns after disasters like flooding. These units' placement and frequency help overcome surface moisture damage by introducing dry, warm air against damp building materials to promote efficient evaporation.

Surface Cleaning

As with many flood damage events, extensive cleaning of non-porous materials like concrete flooring or masonry units is critical. While the flooring may not require demolition and removal, disinfection cleaning protects the property from growing microbes and harmful organisms posing potential health threats. Mechanical action mixed with our powerful cleaning products effectively eliminates surface microbial or bacterial threats. Ultimately, the cleaning process is a combination of three principles:

• Temperature
• Agitation
• Chemical 

Regardless of how quickly flood damage can infiltrate and collect in the basement level of your home, our fast response can help protect both the contents stored in the lower level and the structural elements exposed. Give our SERVPRO of Bellevue West team a call today at (425) 454-3900.

Storms in Bellevue Call for Prevention of Frozen Pipes and Ice Damming

12/23/2021 (Permalink)

When a storm causes damage to your home, SERVPRO has storm damage restoration teams on call 24/7 365 days a year. Call now!

SERVPRO is There to Assist with Water Damage Should You Have Issues with Frozen Piping or Ice Dams in Bellevue

Strong winds and drops in temperature are typical in Bellevue when the winter weather starts roaring in. As a homeowner or local property manager, you need to do whatever possible to protect your building from damage due to winter storm mayhem. Freezing pipes and ice dams are a concern for many homeowners, but SERVPRO wants you to know that they are preventable.

Nobody wants to have problems with frozen pipes or ice damming in Bellevue during a storm, so SERVPRO is offering some helpful tips to get ahead of any possible issues.

Frozen Pipe Prevention

Any water line can freeze given the right conditions, and burst pipes are something no homeowner wants to deal with. Extreme cold can leave your home vulnerable, so prevent frozen pipes from happening by:

• Open up bathroom and kitchen cabinets to circulate warm air around your piping
• If your garage has pipes, keep the garage door closed to help conserve heat
• Let a trickle of cold water drip from faucets that get water from exposed piping
• Should you be away from home, be sure that you keep the heat on and above 55° F
• Always insulate your crawl spaces, basement, and attics to protect pipes that are not climate controlled

Ice Dam Prevention

It is best to take action before the first snow or significant storm to ensure your roof remains in good condition. Icicles and ice dams form as snow melts, running down the roof, then refreezing at the edge. Because ice dam removal can be challenging, it is best to prevent them before they have a chance to form by:

• Close up any attic bypasses
• Manage the insulation level in the attic
• Add soffit and roof vents

Note: Climbing onto your roof can be dangerous, especially during the winter months. Always follow safety procedures and act with caution.

SERVPRO of Bellevue West has the staffing and equipment necessary to help you recover from water damage after frozen pipes burst or hidden water intrusion due to ice damming. Call us at (425) 454-3900 whenever you need assistance!

Keeping Your Attic and Crawl Space Healthy

9/24/2021 (Permalink)

Living in the Pacific Northwest has its share of positives and negatives; beautiful scenery and all major seasons of the year. Unfortunately an excess of rain and clouds is part of our typical weather pattern. The damp weather that we’ve grown accustomed can be difficult to keep molds and fungus at bay, or what we call microbial growth. Attics and crawl spaces are the perfect incubator for these nasty microbes. Short of keeping a webcam in your attic (out of sight, out of mind) here are five recommendations to keeping your attic microbial growth free.

1. Water intrusion from a leaking roof is a common cause of microbial growth. Confirm your roof is tight and leak proof by having it inspected by a professional.
2. The bathroom ventilation, in some homes, exit by way of the attic and through the roof. Make sure that ductwork is sealed, secure, and continuous. If not, warm moist air will blow directly into your attic and can cause unwanted visitors.
3. A well-insulated attic stops moisture from escaping your house and entering your attic. It also helps with your home’s energy costs. Is your attic insulated?
4. Air ventilation is essential; it makes for a cooler attic in the Summer but also reduces moisture and heat buildup. Air from outside enters the attic by way of soffit vents (under the eaves) and exits through turtle vents (at top of roof). These should be kept clear.
5. Is it mold, or is it dirt? Not everything is mold, and for that matter, the scary and often misconceived “black mold.” Proper testing is the only way to know for sure what kind of growth you’re dealing with. Don’t get too worried, but if you have concerns, call a professional.

Microbial growth causes silent destruction in our attics and crawlspaces: wood rot, ruined drywall, and overall structural deterioration. If you discover an issue and feel there’s more than meets the eye, contact a company with experience such as SERVPRO of Bellevue West. It’s crucial to remove microbial growth adequately but also understand where the problem began in the first place. Count on our team to help you keep your attics and crawlspaces clean and healthy.

Restoring Your Home After A Leak

9/24/2021 (Permalink)

Your home may flood for a number of reasons caused by natural or man-made disasters, a broken pipe or a heavy rainstorm. If your home has water damage, it’s time for restoration! Most people are stumped by how to handle the cleanup process. They may not know which items to throw out, which items to clean or how to clean them.

1. Which Items To Clean

It’s wise not to try to handle the cleanup on your own. A restoration company such as SERVPRO can assess the damage done to your business. They can tell you which items can be cleaned and which cannot be. The rule of thumb to remember is that nonporous objects can be cleaned, whereas porous materials are more tricky. For instance, carpeting, bedding and soft furniture may be difficult to clean. However, hard and smooth surfaces can be washed.

2. How To Clean Your Contents

Call your insurance company to see what type of cleaning coverage is included in your policy. If there is mold or mildew, an expert can assess how it should be cleaned and with what equipment. When clothing is damaged in a flood, it may be salvageable, the SERVPRO team can help you with cleaning all household items. 

3. What Items To Throw Out

Upholstered furniture, bedding and paper products should be the first to be removed after a flood. These are objects that can be difficult if not impossible to clean. Document drying is available and should be done as soon as possible. Consult the professionals at SERVPRO for advice! 

The cleanup of your flooded home does not have to be a miserable affair, SERVPRO professionals will walk you through the process- were are always on standby ready to help! 

Cold Weather Storm Damage Restoration

7/13/2021 (Permalink)

Cold weather storm events are very dependent on your region and the type of weather you experience in the winter months. Many people across the United States live in warm climates where cold weather storm damage is unheard of. However, for those who live in climates that experience annual cold weather snaps its important to be prepared or the unexpected.

Blinding snowstorms and freezing temperatures can cause extensive damage to buildings in many ways. Homeowners in areas in which temperatures are prone to fall to zero and beyond should consider possible risks and take necessary measures. Snow and ice accumulation can collapse roofs and cause branches to break falling on structures and vehicles. In weather so cold heating systems can freeze up causing dangerously low temperatures for safe living conditions.

Pipes cracking and freezing because of ice damage is also a common issue. Frozen pipes may also cause water to back up and seep into the house walls and flooring, causing structural damage. The flooding caused by cracked frozen pipes plus ground water might require the services of a home restoration expert such as the professionals at SERVPRO. Melting of snow and ice can also cause flooding. Sump pumps can be used to remedy flood water, just ensure they are working properly before cold weather hits. Experts recommend the use of strong and durable pipes which can withstand frozen pipes pressure. At times, pipes with bigger radius help solve the issue of frozen pipes.

Ice damming can also contribute to the damage of a structure, especially roof damage. An ice dam prevents snow from draining off the roof leak. They are formed when a ridge of ice acts as a barrier on the roof's edge. Signs of an ice dam include damaged walls and leaking ceilings caused by thick snow accumulation. Gutter systems can become damaged and should always be inspected after heavy snow.

If you have experienced damage due to a cold weather storm, or if you want to be prepared for next season call SERVPRO of Bellevue West. We are here to be your resource for all cold- weather emergencies!

Common Types of Storm Damage Restoration

7/13/2021 (Permalink)

Most people live for decades without ever thinking of storm damage restoration, however its important to have a plan and be aware of what kind of storm damage you could face in your region. Let’s examine different types of storm events:

Wind damage makes up for a lot of devastation both in cost and frequency. Roofs, doors, and windows must be checked for cracks and holes. Care should be taken to avoid cuts from glass shards. Wind damage is easily noticeable sometimes. Winds of 50 mph easily topple power lines and trees. It can be very severe when a tree falls on a roof: For roof repair, licensed roofers may be needed for roof damage if it goes beyond roof leaks.


Hurricanes have some of the most devastating effects on houses. Hurricane damage usually includes flooding, wind damage, and hailstorms. Most homeowners who live in regions where hurricanes are common will have special allowances on their home and business Insurance for coverage from these catastrophic events.

Damage also comes in the form of floods, especially for people who live close to rivers. During river flooding, contact with flood waters should be avoided during storms. With river flooding, the ground water and river flood water may raise several inches above the ground and infiltrate a structure making it uninhabitable.


Hailstorms can take place anywhere and can be either be light and sporadic or devastatingly damaging. Hails the size of golf balls cause considerable roof damage. Insurance is offered to alleviate the burden of hail damage. Small hailstorms can also cause both roof and window damage. Patio furniture, air conditioners, and doors should also be inspected for cracks, dents or breaks. Hail damage might also leave behind standing water that may require professional extraction.

Aftermath of a storm should include thinking about home restoration. Item to be inspected and restored include flooring, cabinets, wall finishes and plumbing and electrical systems. It is important to review your insurance coverage and receive quotes from professionals such as the restoration specialists at SERVPRO. Visit http://www.SERVPRObellevuewest.com for more information on storm damage.

Emergency Supply Checklist

7/13/2021 (Permalink)

Most storm, fire, and water damage happens unexpectedly and emergencies can catch Bellevue residents unprepared.

It is very smart to have an emergency supply bag or container already stocked with the basics you need should an emergency happen. Our SERVPRO team recommends the following items for personal preparedness;

Emergency survival kit

• Store a kit at home, at work and at each child’s school or daycare facility.
• Dry or canned food and drinking water for each person
• Can opener
• First aid supplies and first aid book
• Copies of important documents such as birth certificates, licenses, and insurance policies
• "Special needs" items for family members such as infant formula, eyeglasses and medications
• A change of clothing
• Sleeping bag or blanket
• Battery powered radio or television
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• Whistle
• Waterproof matches
• Toys, books, puzzles, games
• Extra house keys and car keys
• List of contact names and phone numbers
• Food, water and supplies for pets

Additional items you can store at home for emergency use:

• Cooking supplies
• Barbecue, camp stove
• Fuel for cooking, such as charcoal or camp stove fuel
• Plastic knives, forks, spoons
• Paper plates and cups
• Paper towels
• Heavy-duty aluminum foil

Sanitation/Personal supplies

• Large plastic trash bags for trash, water protection
• Large trash cans
• Bar soap and liquid detergent
• Shampoo
• Toothpaste and toothbrushes
• Feminine and infant supplies
• Toilet paper
• Household bleach with no additives, and eyedropper (for purifying drinking water)
• Newspaper — to wrap garbage and waste

Comfort

• Sturdy shoes
• Gloves for clearing debris
• Tent

Important Tools

• Ax, shovel, broom
• Crescent wrench for turning off gas
• Screwdriver, pliers, hammer
• Coil of one-half inch rope
• Plastic tape and sheeting
• Knife or razor blades
• Garden hose for siphoning and fire fighting

In Washington flood recovery, earthquake recovery, and recovery from other natural disasters will be much easier if you’re prepared with emergency survival tools and supplies like these. Call SERVPRO of Bellevue West for more information regarding how you can appropriately prepare for an emergency: 425-454-3900.

Puget Sound Natural Disasters

1/8/2021 (Permalink)

Do you know the basic earthquake safety measures?

This past year was unfortunately infamous with issues that impacted the world far and wide. Aside from the pandemic we experienced many natural disasters throughout our region, specifically climate fueled wildfires.  These trying times sharpen our awareness of our region's natural disasters. One of the best ways to prepare is by making our homes safer, more resilient and structurally sound. 

The state of Washington has the second highest risk in the country for large destructive earthquakes due to the North American plate and a network of related fault lines. While an earthquake could happen tomorrow or 200 years from now its important to be prepared for this reality. Here are a few recommendations to consider; 

Homes built before 1980 in King County should be inspected by a professional to evaluate if they need a seismic retrofit. This is due to the fact that older homes aren't generally tied to a solid foundation. 

Residents can take small proactive steps to increase safety measures such as stockpiling food and water along with a useful preparedness kit. 

Ensure you are knowledgeable about your major shut-off locations. In homes with gas connections automatic shut-off valves should be installed. Make sure these locations are well marked and contact SERVPRO of Bellevue West for shut-off tags if needed.  

Most important educate yourself about resources available in your community and what to do if a disaster strikes. Knowledge and preparedness are key. 

How To Mitigate Water Issues Leading To Microbial

7/1/2020 (Permalink)

When you find mold or water issues in your home or business it’s to get professionals on the case as soon as possible. You should never try to fight mold or water issues yourself, but you can reduce the size of your problem by taking a few key steps to slow its spread by:

Reducing air flow

Reducing moisture

Maintaining cool temperatures

How Microbial Growth Spreads:

Microbial growth is a form of fungus, and like other fungi, it is known to grow in warm, wet conditions. Therefore, parts of your home experiencing a moisture problem are more prone to mold invasion than areas that are open and receive plenty of fresh air. Mold can travel through both moisture and airflow, so it’s imperative to reduce the presence of these two in your home to slow down the spread of mold while waiting for expert assistance.

Reduce Airflow

The first thing you’ll need to do is turn off your HVAC system. This can prevent air from moving mold spores to different areas of your home where they might otherwise sprout and cause a much larger issue than you already have. Furthermore, you should attempt to keep your home cool without the use of your HVAC system, as mold tends to grow more quickly in warmer conditions.

Eliminate Excess Water

Turning off your water until the professionals arrive to assess the mold issue is the best possible way to reduce the moisture in your home. This stops running water from moving mold spores to other parts of your home and from directly contaminating the water you regularly use. The pros will let you know when it’s safe to turn the water back on.

Taking these precautionary steps won’t eliminate microbial growth, but it can certainly slow down its spread to make the overall damage more manageable until professionals arrive. Visit http://www.SERVPRObellevuewest.com for more information on mold cleaning and steps to mitigate water from your home or business.

Eliminating Microbial Growth

7/1/2020 (Permalink)

The unfortunate thing about microbial growth is that once it is present, it can spread like wildfire. Mold spores are tiny and lightweight, and even just a puff of air can send spores from one room to the next. If you have discovered mold in your home, the key to controlling the situation is to act fast. To stop mold in its tracks and prevent further damage, do the following four things:

Turn Off Your HVAC System

Mold spores can travel from room to room via your home’s HVAC system. Once in the HVAC system, there is no telling where the spores may go or what type of damage they will cause. To prevent extensive damage to everything from your possessions to your home’s foundation, turn off your HVAC immediately after discovering the problem.

Increase Ventilation

Don’t let mold fester; keep all rooms well ventilated. Turn on the fans in each room, open the windows if it’s not cold outside and check all of your exhaust systems to make sure that they’re working properly. The key is to get mold out, and not let it fester in still air.

Turn on a Dehumidifier

Black mold needs a humid environment to grow and thrive. Keep your home’s humidity levels in check; ideally, the humidity levels in your home should stay between 30 and 50 percent.

Call in a Mold Remediation Team: SERVPRO of Bellevue West

The best way to effectively stop mold in its tracks is to retain the help of your Bellevue, WA mold remediation team at SERVPRO of Bellevue West. A team that specializes in mold cleanup knows how to kill mold as well as where to look for the source of the problem. Once they identify the source, they can advise you on what steps to take to prevent future infestations.

Microbial Growth is a major pain for homeowners to deal with and can quickly spread given the right conditions. However, by taking the proper measures immediately after detecting it, you can prevent extensive damage to your home and save yourself the time, money and hassle of dealing with a larger infestation.

Visit http://www.SERVPRObellevuewest.com for more information on mold, water issues and our cleaning process.

STEP: Students and Teachers Towards Emergency Preparedness

7/1/2020 (Permalink)

Disasters impact children and youth across the United States. We know this from a first-hand experience and have seen families (and children) displaced from their homes due to flooding and fire issues. This is a tough reality to face; interruption in children’s lives can cause distraction in school and emotional distress. Even the COVID-19 Pandemic has impacted students and their families with unexpected health threats. This is one of the many reasons SERVPRO of Bellevue West works hard to make sure families and their children can get back into their homes as quickly as possible following a disaster.

When children prepare and practice for an emergency, it improves their ability to take immediate action and feel more comfortable, less shock, in an emergency situation. With training, they can actively take part in preparedness in their communities, from home to school. But students, teachers, and parents know that between classes, testing, and extracurricular activities, making the time can be challenging. A new program in place helps teachers be proactive about implementing emergency preparedness training. Many schools nationwide have begun using Student Tools for Emergency Planning (STEP). FEMA piloted STEP in 2008 for fourth and fifth grade classrooms. STEP’s basic lessons are only an hour long. Students learn skills to build an emergency kit and a family communications plan. These basic lessons taught together build the foundation for the program, or can stand alone. Children are able to bring home what they have learned and share with their families.   Teachers can add lessons and customize situations about disasters that might happen in their area- for example tsunamis for coastal cities and hurricanes in the mid-west. STEP includes lessons about fires, severe weather (including extreme heat and cold, tornadoes, and hurricanes), and earthquakes. There are also lessons to include geography, science, English, art, and math. Throughout, instructors can use STEP’s “Disaster Dodgers” video series, handouts, homework assignments, and classroom activities to bring the lessons to life. These features make it adaptable on every level and help create real life situations that children can relate to. Practice makes perfect and this si certainly something worth practicing in school and at home.

SERVPRO of Bellevue West is passionate about emergency preparedness in schools and our local communities. If you are a teacher and would like emergency preparedness coloring books or emergency kit flyers for your classrooms please contact us at 425-454-3900.

Tips on How to Deal With Storm Damage

3/26/2020 (Permalink)

Severe storms such as tornadoes and hurricanes can cause massive losses in the areas that they affect causing home flooding, river flooding, roof damage, hail damage, roof leak, flood water, and ground water. Just look at the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey in Texas or Irma in the Caribbean islands, they left devastating effects on communities. Dealing with water or wind damage in the event of a tornado or a hurricane is both dangerous and difficult. You need a professional water restoration or home restoration company to do the storm remediation.

Damages resulting from a storm can be in many forms depending on the nature and magnitude of the storm. There could be flood water from river flooding — if you live in a place located close to a river — or from the ground water. There could be ice damage, hail damage, wind damage, frozen pipes, ice damming, et cetera. The best thing to do is always to be prepared to deal with such through storm restoration and storm remediation. This is particularly important for people who live in storm prone areas. Here a few tips on how to deal with storm damage after a hurricane damage or river flooding.

Stay Safe from Storm Damage

In the event of a storm, most of the losses occur from wind damage, i.e., falling trees, blown off roofs, etc. and flood water, river flooding, ground water, and home flooding. While it's not possible to prevent high-speed winds from knocking down trees, there's a lot that can be done to prevent flood water from finding its way into the house. Homeowners should ensure that any roof leak is mitigated through roof repair to prevent roof damage and flooding within the house. Hail damage can also result in massive property destruction like shattered windscreens and frozen pipes. Only a qualified water restoration and home restoration company can effectively mitigate hail damage and hurricane damage with their specialized equipment like flood pump.

If there is a roof leak, make sure that it is sealed before the storm hits. Ground water can also find its way to the house via the basement, so there should be a flood pump in there to pump it outside and prevent water level rising down there. As soon as the storm subsides, homeowners should call storm restoration professionals immediately before the damage spreads to carry out storm remediation. The water restoration or home restoration company should act swiftly after a hurricane damage to clear off the water using a flood pump.

Dealing with Ice Dams

Ice damming is the formation of a ridge of ice at the roof of a house. An ice dam keeps water from melting snow from draining off the roof, the water is held behind the ice dam and can easily find its way into the house leading to flooding and frozen pipes. If the water seeps through the shingles into the house, it could lead to damage on the walls, ceiling, and other parts of the structure.

Ice dams or ice damming can be dealt with by breaking them into small pieces with a blunt mallet. Using a sharp tool can damage the shingles and lead to further roof leak — its best to let a professional ice damage company do the work of removing ice damming before you carry out roof repair. Ice dams can also lead to ice damage on the roof and rather than dealing with them after a storm, homeowners should seal air spaces beneath the roof and prevent the format of these ice ridges in the first place. Frozen pipes are another cause of ice damage during storms.

Dealing with Roof Damage

Roof damage can be caused by falling objects or the roof itself getting blown away by the strong winds. If the roof of a house is destroyed as a result of a hurricane damage, homeowners are advised not to climb to the unstable roof in an attempt to carry out roof repair. They should call professionals to do the roof repair for them.

The first thing homeowners should do after storm damage or wind damage is getting in touch with a storm restoration, water restoration, or home restoration company such as SERVPRO of Bellevue West. We are experts in matters to do with storm remediation. For a typical homeowner, trying to undertake the storm restoration process without professional help can even be dangerous.
Visit http://www.SERVPRObellevuewest.com for more information on storm damage.