Recent Posts

What to do after a fire in you Putnam County home

5/24/2023 (Permalink)

A house fire to your Putnam County home can completely interrupt your family’s lives. Whether the fire erupted in a single room or affected several bedrooms, it’s vital to take safety precautions before entering the home. These will yield the best results for fire restoration and ensure no one is injured in the process.

1. Schedule an Inspection

No matter how safe your home may seem, schedule an inspection first. SERVPROs fire restoration professionals will check that no live electrical components create a shock or other fire risk and will test gas piping for leaks. They’ll also look at structural damage to make sure the home is safe to enter. This crucial step will reduce the potential for injuries and also kickstart the recovery process.

2. Don’t Start Fire Restoration On Your Own

As tempting as it is to begin cleaning up, wait for the professionals. You can open windows, but avoid plugging in box fans or turning ceiling fans on. These may spark electrical problems or worsen the smoke smell and ash cover. Ideally, you shouldn’t use the electricity at all until an electrician has made necessary repairs. The best course of action is to stay off site until fire damage repair begins.

3. Stay Off Furniture

If you start clearing debris with professionals, stay off of furniture. Most pieces are salvageable if ash and soot don’t sink into the fibers. Sitting on a sofa or bed may press them in and embed a permanent ash smell. Professional fire restoration companies have the proper equipment that deep clean sofas, mattresses, chairs, and other furniture that is lined with fabric. SERVPRO will be able to wipe down the soot, deodorize the fire smell, and return your Putnam County home back to like it never even happened. 

Your property isn't waterproof

5/24/2023 (Permalink)

Water damage can be from many different causes and can have many different outcomes. Damage from water can lead to mold, odor and weakened structure. How do you know if you have water damage? Water damage can be put off or ignored if the signs aren't taken seriously. It can be seen by discoloration in a wall or ceiling and can be felt by a damp area that should be dry. Also, it can often times put off a musty odor. 

How did I get water damage?

  • Leak in my property
  • Appliance malfunction
  • Storm causing flooding 
  • Pipe burst

 How can I fix water damage?

Start by calling SERVPRO of Putnam County at 386-328-8660. SERVPRO fixes water damages by finding the source and repairing the area. Then the team will bring in special gear to remove the water and dry the area to above and beyond standards. Not only will our team restore the area but will try to restore any items that were affected by the water damage as well. It is a time sensitive job so that more issues are not caused by the water damage which is why we work around the clock to better serve our community.

Here in Putnam County we experience storms, tidal flooding and occasional power outages that can cause appliance malfunction leading to water damage. We are a tough community and with SERVPRO by your side water damage doesn't stand a chance at your property

What should you do after a storm?

5/24/2023 (Permalink)

Returning to our normal routine after storm damage can be absolutely so tiring and without a doubt stressful. Storms are a naturally occurring phenomenon that we should never take for granted no matter how strong the storm signal. Storms come with heavy rain causing a flood that can destroy our establishments and homes. Strong wind, lightning, and heavy rain are common when a storm is coming or is in the area.

Here are a few safety tips on what to do after the storm.

1. After the storm, assess your property and the structural damage it has after the storm and take numerous photos if possible.

2. Secure your home for further damage, cover the broken windows but don’t try to fix it yourself until an authorized person has checked and secured the home.

3. Stay away from the open wire and hanging electric wires. Be careful turning on your generators

Process of Fire Damage Restoration

2/3/2022 (Permalink)

After a fire, the smoke and fire damage are often paired with extensive water damage from firefighting efforts. Since every fire damage is a little different, at SERVPRO of Putnam County, we create unique solutions with a process that relatively stays the same. Check out the steps below to understand our process during a typical fire emergency:  

Step 1: Emergency Contact 

The restoration process begins when you call us. Our representative will ask questions regarding the fire damage event that will help us respond immediately with the appropriate equipment and resources.  

Step 2: Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment 

We carefully inspect and test adjoining rooms of your property to determine the extent of the fire, smoke, and soot damage. This step is crucial to developing a plan of action.  

Step 3: Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service 

Fire damage can often compromise windows, walls, and roofs. To maintain security and to protect against further damage, we can board up missing windows and walls and place tarps on damaged roofs.  

Step 4: Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present) 

The water removal process begins almost immediately and removes the majority of the water. We then use dehumidifiers and air movers to remove the remaining water and complete the drying process.  

Step 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces 

We use specialized equipment and techniques to remove smoke and soot from ceilings, walls, and other surfaces.  

Step 6: Cleaning and Sanitizing 

We clean, sanitize, and disinfect all of the restorable items and structures that were damaged by the fire. We use a variety of cleaning techniques to restore your belongings to pre-fire condition. We’re also trained to remove odors using industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment. 

Step 7: Restoration 

Restoration is the final step—getting your home or business to its pre-fire condition. 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. 

Although our process stays mostly the same, we are prepared to restore your home or business with unique solutions, specific to your needs. If you have fire damage, give us a call at (386) 328-8660. SERVPRO of Putnam County will restore your home “Like it never even happened.” 

 

Cooking Fires

2/3/2022 (Permalink)

Cooking brings family and friends together, provides an outlet for creativity and can be relaxing. But did you know that cooking fires are the number one cause of home fires and home injuries? By following a few safety tips, you can prevent these fires.  

“Cook with Caution” 

  • Be on alert! If you are sleepy or have consumed alcohol do not use the stove or stove top. 
  • Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, grilling, or broiling food. If you leave the kitchen for even a brief period, turn off the stove. 
  • If you are simmering, baking, roasting, or boiling food, check it regularly, remain in the home while food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you that you are cooking. 
  • Keep anything that can catch fire — oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels, or curtains — away from your stove top. 

IF YOU HAVE A COOKING FIRE... 

  • Just get out! When you leave, close the door behind you to help contain the fire. 
  • Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number after you leave. 
  • If you try to fight the fire, be sure others are getting out and you have a clear way out. 
  • Keep a lid nearby when you are cooking to smother small grease fires. Smother the fire by sliding the lid over the pan and turn off the stovetop. Leave the pan covered until it is completely cooled. 
  • For an oven fire turn off the heat and keep the door closed. 

Thanks to the National Fire Protection Agency for sharing these tips. 

If you have a fire in your home or business, call SERVPRO of Putnam County at (386) 328-8660.

We Specialize in Flood Cleanup

2/3/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Putnam County sees flooding often since we have miles of local properties on the St. Johns River. A home can flood at any time due to heavy rainfall in a short period of time or when storms come in during high tide. However, flooding could also occur due to the following events:  

  • A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe
  • Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home
  • Storm sewer backup
  • Sanitary sewer backup
  • Foundation drainage failure
  • Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure
  • And many more

If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can cause health effects and cause severe damage to your home’s structure. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.

Let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. 

Have questions about flooding?  Call us today.  We’re ready to help (386) 328-8660.

Steps of Water Restoration

2/3/2022 (Permalink)

Every water damage is a little different, but at SERVPRO of Putnam County, our steps to taking care of you and your property are the same. Experiencing water damage? Here are the steps we take to help get your home and business back to normal.  

Step 1 - Emergency Contact 

The restoration process begins when you call us. Our representative will guide you through the crisis and may ask several questions to help us better understand the equipment and resources. 

Step 2 - Inspection and Water Damage Assessment 

We determine the scope of your water damage at this stage. We inspect and test to determine the extent of damage and how far the moisture has traveled to ensure proper and complete restoration. 

Step 3 - Water Removal / Water Extraction 

The water removal process begins almost immediately and removes the majority of the water. We use powerful pumps and vacuum units to quickly remove hundreds or thousands of gallons from your property, which helps prevent secondary water damage and mold growth. 

Step 4 - Drying and Dehumidification 

We use specialized equipment to remove the remaining water that is harder to access. Our Professionals will use room measurements, temperature, and relative humidity to determine the optimal number of air movers and dehumidifiers needed to dry your home or business. 

Step 5 - Cleaning and Sanitizing 

We clean all of the restorable items and structures damaged by the water. We are adept at cleaning contents using a number of techniques. Our professionals are trained to provide sanitizing treatments and to remove odors and deodorize your property. 

Step 6 - Restoration 

Restoration is the process of restoring your home or business to its pre-water damage condition. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall and installing new carpet, or may entail major repairs, such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business. 

Whether a pipe bursts during the night, or the tide gets a bit too high and into your home, we are available 24/7, 365 days a year. Give us a call at (386) 328-8660, and let our trained professionals take care of your restoration needs.

Why SERVPRO?

2/3/2022 (Permalink)

When the pipe bursts, the house is damaged by fire, or mold is present in your home, who do you call? For most people, it’s their insurance agent. Your next call should be to SERVPRO of Putnam County. 

We create and maintain relationships with insurance providers at both the national level and in the Putnam County area. As an insurance preferred service provider, we are focused on restoring your home or business "Like it never even happened." We are proud to be a “one-stop” service provider, providing seamless restoration and construction services to help restore and rebuild what has been damaged. Partnering with SERVPRO for restoration and repairs also reduces the number of companies, and people, in and out of your home or business during the process.  

During a disaster, we know that time is of the essence. By creating and maintaining our relationships with major insurance providers, we are experienced in what each insurance company requires during the restoration and reconstruction process, so we can get the necessary approvals quickly and get started right away, eliminating costly delays. 

When disaster strikes, call (386) 328-8660 because we are here to Help! 

Office Fire Risks

2/2/2022 (Permalink)

Burnt office building Don't allow simple things to cause a fire in your office.

Are you aware that a structure fire occurs every 63 seconds in the United States? Do you believe you are doing everything you can to promote fire safety in the workplace? Here are some helpful fire safety tips.

First, here’s a list of some common fire hazards you might encounter in the office:

  • Flammable Materials: Paper and cardboard are common in just about every office. Unfortunately, they’re also extremely flammable. Keep these materials safely stored in an easy to access area away from the main office area. Get rid of unnecessary documents and trash to keep things from becoming cluttered.
  • Combustible Materials: Safely storing combustible and flammable liquids and vapors is vital to the safety of your office building. A flammable liquid can burst into flames with a single spark, and vapors can cause an explosion, so be sure that your substances are contained securely. Flammable liquids must be completely sealed and kept in a dry, secure place.
  • Dust and Debris: If your building isn’t well ventilated or properly clean, the dust and debris can create a fire hazard. If you use machinery that heats up, make sure it’s scrupulously clean. Grease and dust residue can result in a fire if you’re not careful.
  • Overused Power Sockets: Extension cords should be used temporarily, if at all, and you should make a rule to plug in one item per socket. Overloaded power sockets can overheat and potentially start a fire.
  • Unattended Electrical Equipment: Shut off and unplug electrical heaters and appliances when they’re not in use, and never leave things on overnight. Check for loose cables, broken plugs, or damaged electrical cords, and keep areas around electrical devices clear of paper.
  • Smoking: Smoking is one of the primary causes of office fires, so designate a smoking area far away from the building, with ashtrays and bins for proper cigarette disposal.
  • Negligence: Make sure everyone in the building cleans up messes, doesn’t leave food unattended in the toaster or on a burner, and understands why negligence is hazardous.
  • Inadequate Safety Measures: Obstructed exits, faulty safety equipment, and blocked sprinklers can lead to tragedy in case of emergency, so make sure everything is working as it should. Additionally, take the time to teach your staff to use fire extinguishers, what to do in case of an emergency, and where to go if there’s a fire. Having an emergency plan in place and staff members who know how to execute it can save lives.

If your property has sustained fire damage, you don’t have to go it alone. If you have suffered through a fire in your Putnam County office building, call SERVPRO of Putnam County for help with fire restoration. Our highly-trained restoration technicians have the equipment and experience to restore your Putnam County property and get everything back to normal. A trusted leader in the fire damage restoration service industry, we’ve served our community for more than 25 years. Call us at (386) 328-8660.

Keep Mold from Becoming a Problem in your Office

2/2/2022 (Permalink)

Mold growth is common, especially in the state of Florida. Why? Mold spores can be found everywhere, and they begin to grow when they hit a moist surface with organic material. Do you have an idea of how much organic material is in your office? Sheetrock, fabrics, carpets, wallpaper, cardboard, ceiling tiles, paper, wood, fiberglass insulation, dirt and glue are all examples of organic material. It’s no wonder so many office buildings are plagued with mold. What are some ways you can keep it out of yours?

First, if it’s so common, is mold really a big deal? In a word, yes. Mold can cause health effects and decrease worker productivity. It can also cause damage to your property, if left to grow unchecked. The best way to handle mold is to prevent it from gaining a foothold in your building. There are several measures you can take to lessen the occurrence of mold growth.

The best way to handle mold is to prevent it from gaining a foothold in your building. There are several measures you can take to lessen the occurrence of mold growth.

  • Fix any obvious sources of moisture. Roof and plumbing leaks can encourage mold growth, so repair those promptly and dry the area around them. You may need a specialist to help you get the water damage under control.
  • Eliminate condensation. While air conditioners can be helpful in filtering out mold spores and reducing mold growth, they can also be a source of condensation if you’re not careful. Condensation happens when humid air hits a cool surface, so if you let outdoor air inside, it will condense on air conditioner surfaces. Keep doors closed, and don’t open windows when the air conditioner is running. If the AC ducts run through an attic or basement, try to keep the air moving so that mold isn’t able to grow.
  • Leave the heat on if you’re closing the building for an extended period. People typically remember to drain the pipes to prevent them from freezing while the building is closed. It’s not as common to think about preventing mold growth while your office is not in use.
  • Control the building’s relative humidity. The most direct way to make conditions less favorable for mold propagation in a commercial building is to reduce the room’s humidity. Keep the relative humidity below 50 percent, but avoid reducing it under 20 percent, because that can cause the drying up of respiratory passages, leading to severe discomfort.
  • If you suspect a problem, have the building tested for mold. An air quality company or an Industrial Hygienist can come and do air sampling to determine the presence and species of mold in your building. Our SERVPRO franchises work with these professionals on a weekly basis and can recommend an Industrial Hygienist or Mold Inspector that not only has advanced degrees in Chemistry and Microbiology but is also a Florida State Licensed General Contractor.

If you happen to discover mold in your Putnam County office, make sure to call SERVPRO of Putnam County for help with mold remediation. Our expert restoration technicians have the experience and equipment to restore your Putnam County office back to its original condition. A trusted leader in the mold remediation industry, we have served our community for more than 25 years. Call us at (386) 328-8660.