Do You Know How to Stay Safe During a Hurricane?

4/8/2024 (Permalink)

Our local SERVPRO of Manassas is Here to Help® when your home or commercial business in the surrounding areas sustain hurricane damage. Below is some information on how to stay safe during a hurricane: 

Stay Informed

• Listen for emergency information and alerts
• If told to evacuate by local officials, do so immediately

Dealing with the Weather

• Determine how best to protect yourself from high winds and flooding
• Take refuge in a designated storm shelter, or an interior room for high winds
• If trapped in a building by flooding, go to the highest level of the building. Do not climb into a closed attic. You may become trapped by rising flood water.
• Do not walk, swim, or drive through flood waters. Turn Around. Don’t Drown!
• Stay off bridges over fast-moving water
• Avoid being in a room with multiple windows. If possible, go to a room that has no windows or a designated storm shelter room within your home. 

Personal Safety

• Be prepared to take cleaning items with you like soap, hand sanitizer, disinfecting wipes, or general household cleaning supplies to disinfect surfaces you may need to touch regularly
• Maintain at least 6 feet between you and persons not part of your immediate family while at the shelter [by avoiding crowds or gathering in groups] as much as possible 
• Anyone over two years old should use a cloth face covering while at these facilities
• Only use generators outdoors and away from windows

Call Us Today!

When you have storm damage in your home or commercial business, our local team will restore your property damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 703-656-9028.

Do's & Don't | Manassas

4/8/2024 (Permalink)

DO:

• Shut off the water 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. 
• After removing lamps and tabletop items, wipe excess water from wood furniture. 
• Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
• Remove any paintings, art objects, computers, documents, and other sensitive items to a safe, dry place. 
• Use wooden clothespins to keep furniture skirting and draperies off damp floors.

DON'T:

• Enter rooms with standing water where electrical shock hazards may exist. 
• Leave colored rugs/items on wet carpets or floors which mat cause staining. 
• Use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water. 
• Use TVs or other appliances while standing on wet carpets or floors, especially wet concrete floors. 
• Turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet or enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water. 

If you have any questions please reach out to our office at 703-656-9028.

Stormwater Extraction from Manassas Homes Happens Fast with SERVPRO

9/18/2023 (Permalink)

How Can SERVPRO Help in Storm Water Extraction From Manassas Homes? 

Storm water extraction from your Manassas home can be difficult due to the presence of debris and particulate matter. SERVPRO techs use advanced tools that can remove storm water quickly and efficiently to reduce the impact of water damage..

SERVPRO techs use centrifugal pumps for storm water extraction from flooded Manassas homes. The pumps convert rotational energy from a motor to move fluid. SERVPRO techs use several types of centrifugal pumps, including-

• Self-priming trash pumps
• High-pressure pumps
• Electric submersible pumps

How do SERVPRO Techs Choose the Right Pump During Water Removal Services? 

SERVPRO techs consider several factors before deciding which pump to use to extract floodwater from your home-

• Does the water contain solids: If the floodwater contains solids, techs use self-priming trash pumps that allow the passage of solids of up to 3”. 
• How much suction lift is required: If the fluid needs to travel more than 25 feet of distance, SERVPRO techs often use high-pressure pumps.
• The flow-rate requirements: If a higher flow rate is required, SERVPRO techs use a high-capacity pump to remove several gallons of water per minute (GPM). 

What is a Diaphragm Pump?

Most centrifugal pumps become inoperable if air enters the hose during operation, bringing the water removal process to a halt. SERVPRO techs use a different type of pump called a diaphragm pump to prevent this from happening. Although these are not used often, they can remove water to near zero depth as they are designed not to lose prime even if air enters the pump.  

Call us today! SERVPRO of Manassas 703-655-9028.

Tropical Storm... What To Do?

7/21/2023 (Permalink)

It is important you and your family stay safe and prepared, below are some tips on how to do so:

How to Prepare for Tropical Storm Henri-

• Be informed- make sure you are receiving alerts, warnings, and public safety information before, during, and after emergencies. 
• Learn if you live in a hurricane evacuation zone- if you do, make a plan to evacuate
• Learn whether your property is in a flood-prone or high-risk area via the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) flood maps.
• Create and commit to memory your family emergency plan and discuss it with them.
• Assemble an emergency kit with what you will need such as food, water, medication, and communication.
• Prepare for possible power outages and blocked streets.
• Take photos or videos of your personal property and store these records in a safe place.
• Prepare your home with temporary plywood covers to protect windows and sliding doors if possible.

Create a Plan-

• Pick more than one safe place in your home where you can go if there is an emergency.
• Pick two ways to get out in case you have to leave, and keep these exits clear.
• Pick a place for your family to meet in case you are separated -- one in and one outside your neighborhood.
• Pick a place where you can stay in case you must evacuate your home.
• Make a plan to keep your pets safe if there is an emergency.
• Know how to turn off the electricity, gas and water in your home.
• Take photos of possessions inside and outside your home in case you need them for insurance purposes.

Once it's over?

Once a hurricane is underway, the experts urge people to avoid driving and stay indoors. Flooding and damaging winds can make traveling extremely dangerous. Nearly 90% of all hurricane-related deaths involve water, according to the National Weather Service.

If you must travel, experts warn not to walk or drive through flowing water. Six inches of swiftly moving water can knock you off of your feet and cars can be swept away in just two feet of moving water. Stay safe and stay informed, SERVPRO will be there for you after the storm. 

What NOT To Do

7/21/2023 (Permalink)

During a storm, flood water can invade your home and cause considerable damage to your property. However, your main priority should always be to get yourself, your family members, and your pets to safety. Once the storm has passed, you can return to assess the damage and begin the cleanup process. Here are four things you should not do when returning to the site of a flood.

1. Make Contact With the Water
Floodwater can contain many different types of contaminants including bacteria, viruses, chemicals, and debris. Help protect your skin from harmful water by wearing rubber boots and gloves and keeping your hands and face from making contact with the water. If contact occurs despite your best efforts, wash immediately with soap and clean water.

2. Enter Standing Water 
After a flood, homes, yards, streets, and other areas can be covered in standing water. Powerful winds often accompany heavy storms, so it is not uncommon to find downed powerlines after a storm. Since water from a flood is usually murky, you cannot always tell what lies beneath the surface. If the water has been electrically charged, you could experience an electric shock if you enter a flooded home. Rubber boots will help protect against the risk of electrocution.

3. Let the Water Sit
The longer water sits, the more time bacteria have to multiply. When items are left to sit in water for long periods of time, the structural integrity of those items can begin to break down. The water should be safely extracted as soon as possible. By cleaning the water faster, you can help to lessen any water damage to your home. Since mold can begin forming in as little as 24 to 48 hours, it is important to begin the drying process as soon as the water has been extracted.
By following a few precautions, you can help keep yourself safe from the dangers of floodwater.

If you have experienced a flood or any type of water damage in Manassas, a professional flood restoration company can help get your home back to its pre-flood condition. Give our team a call at 703-656-9028.

Storm Damage

4/19/2023 (Permalink)

Its storm season which increases the probability of high winds and rain that lead to the risk of storm damage to your property. SERVPRO of Manassas is faster to any size disaster and will help you step by step through the restoration process.

What if a tree falls on my house?

• Instead of worrying about calling individual services like electricians, tree removal and plumbers, simply make one call to SERVPRO of Manassas and we will find the right service providers including a system that each Technician has been fully trained to follow.
• Do not re-enter the property without being advised to do, so. Do not worry about your personal belongings. We will make sure that your home is secured until repairs are complete. If items need to be removed, we can facilitate that process and make sure the belongings are returned to their original place.
• Evacuate the property

Storm Damage Restoration

Many homeowners like to be fully informed about the restoration process. We want you to have peace of mind and feel good about trusting SERVPRO of Manassas with your cleanup and restoration.

• Ensure the tree and tree debris is removed from the property.
• Secure the roof with a temporary tarp to prevent no further damage inside.
• Make sure any tree debris indoors has been removed.
• Assess damage and ensure demolition of damaged areas including ceilings and walls.
• Spray exposed surfaces an antimicrobial agent

Our #1 priority is to make storm damage as stress free as possible.

Hurricane Tips & Tricks

4/19/2023 (Permalink)

Here’s a few tips and tricks to better prepare!

• Before the Storm: Gather food, water, medicines and power supplies.  Organize supplies into a Go-Kit and a Stay-at-Home Kit. Keep personal, financial, and medical records safe. Anchor objects that would be unsafe to bring inside, such as gas grills and propane tanks. Trim or remove trees close enough to fall on your home. Stockpile protective materials such as plastic sheeting and sandbags. Consider elevating the heating system, water heater, and electric panel.

• During the Storm: Take refuge in a small interior room, closet, or hallway on the lowest level during the storm. Put as many walls between you and the outside as you can. Stay away from windows, skylights, and glass doors. If the eye of the storm passes over your area, there will be a short period of calm, but at the other side of the eye, the wind speed rapidly increases to hurricane force winds coming from the opposite direction. So, make sure you stay secured and connected to what’s going on.

• After the Storm: Stay out of floodwater!  Floodwater can contain many things that may harm health, including germs, dangerous chemicals, human and livestock waste, wild or stray animals, and downed power lines among other things. If the power is out, use flashlights instead of candles. If you must use candles, keep them away from anything that can catch fire.  Watch out for fallen power lines that may be hanging overhead. Stay clear of fallen power lines. Call the electric company to report them. Always make sure it is safe to leave before you try to evacuate the area.

Ways To Prevent Damage and Prepare for a Winter Storm

1/19/2023 (Permalink)

A winter storm can be beautiful, but it can also be a nightmare for your business if you are unprepared for it in Manassas. The heavy snow, wind and ice that accompanies the storm can cause severe damage and costly repairs. When these disasters happen, call your insurance company and a storm damage restoration service immediately to file a claim and begin repairs. While you cannot prevent a storm from coming your way, there are several steps you can take to prevent some of the damage from happening and mitigate loss. Here are a few ways to prepare your business for winter weather.

1. Insulate Your Building

Make sure your building is properly insulated. If temperatures drop below freezing, your pipes could freeze and burst, causing flood and water damage. Routinely inspect your building’s heating system to ensure it is working properly and keep the temperature above 55°F to avoid a pipe break.

2. Perform Regular Maintenance

Keep a regular maintenance schedule to make sure windows, doorways and the outside of your building are in good condition. Over time, building materials can wear down, allowing cracks and gaps to form which can reduce the structural integrity and insulation of your building and make it more susceptible to storm damage and flooding. In addition, you should routinely inspect your roof. Replace any broken shingles and make sure shingles are intact and firmly nailed down to prevent roof leaks and wind damage.

3. Stock Emergency Supplies

Create an emergency weather kit that includes snow shovels, ice-melting salt and a first aid kit in case a winter storm comes through unexpectedly. Keep non-perishable food items available in case you are stuck in your building overnight and cannot go home.

4. Watch Local Weather

During the winter months, stay on top of the local weather forecast. Start preparing early if a snowstorm is heading your way, and make sure your staff is adequately prepared.
A winter storm can cause severe damage if you do not take it seriously. Performing routine maintenance on your building and keeping an eye on the weather can greatly reduce damage and keep your business safe.

Lightning Safety Tips…

9/22/2022 (Permalink)

Even though your home is a safe shelter during a lightning storm, you may still be at risk.

Here are some indoor safety tips per CDC:

• Avoid Water –Do not bathe, shower or wash dishes. Lightning can travel through a building’s plumbing.
• Avoid Electronic Equipment –Do not use your computers, laptops, game systems, washers, dryers, stoves or anything connected to an electrical outlet. Lightning can travel through electrical systems, and any metal wires or bars in concrete walls or flooring.
• Avoid Corded Phones – Corded phones are not safe to use during a thunderstorm. However, it is safe to use cordless or cellular phones during a storm.
• Avoid windows, doors, porches and concrete –Do not lie on concrete floors during a thunderstorm or lean on concrete walls. As mentioned lightening can travel through any metal wires or bars.

If you have experienced any damages interior or exterior give us a call we are always here to help 703-656-9028!

What to do before a thunderstorm?

4/5/2022 (Permalink)

Thunderstorms can be dangerous and not taken for granted. Every thunderstorm produces lightning and other hazardous weather conditions, which can include tornadoes, strong winds, hail, and flash flooding.

In Manassas, VA we tend to get a mix of heavy rain and dry thunderstorms. Below are great tips from the READY to help prepare you for what to do before, during, and after a thunderstorm.

What to do before a thunderstorm

• To begin preparing, you should build an emergency kit and make a family communications plan.
• Remove dead or rotting trees and branches that could fall and cause injury or damage during a severe thunderstorm.
• Postpone outdoor activities.
• Secure outdoor objects that could blow away or cause damage.
• Get inside a home, building, or hard-top automobile (not a convertible). Although you may be injured if lightning strikes your car, you are much safer inside a vehicle than outside.
• Remember, rubber-soled shoes and rubber tires provide NO protection from lightning. However, the steel frame of a hard-topped vehicle provides increased protection if you are not touching metal.
• Shutter windows and secure outside doors. If shutters are not available, close window blinds, shades, or curtains.
• Unplug any electronic equipment well before the storm arrives.
• Lightning Risk Reduction When Outdoors

SERVPRO of Manassas  urges each and every one of you to PREPARE before a thunderstorm comes. And whenever they do come, SERVPRO of Manassas will be here to help.

Flood facts!

4/5/2022 (Permalink)

Floods are one of the most common and widespread natural disasters in the United States.

There is always potential for flood damage no matter where you live. According to the American Red Cross floods cause more damage in the United States every year than any other weather related disaster. The American Red Cross offers these flood safety tips:

-Stay away from floodwaters. If you come up on a flowing stream where water is above your ankles, stop, turn around and go another way. Six inches of swiftly moving water can sweep you off of your feet.

-If you approach a flooded road while driving, turn around and go another way. If you are caught on a flooded road and waters are riding rapidly around you, get out of the car quickly and move to higher ground. Most cars can be swept away by less than two feet of moving water.

-Keep children out of the water. They are curious and often lack judgment about running water or contaminated water. 

If a flood occurs and affects you, call SERVPRO of Manassas.  Even minor floods have potential to cause major damage. We are faster to ANY size disaster. Let us help you get your life back in order. 

Is standing water dangerous?

1/13/2022 (Permalink)

Surface water can affect your home and its tenants in multiple ways. While this standing water can absorb into materials and ultimately allow for the deterioration of exposed structural elements, pooling can cause health effects.

SERVPRO offers fast extraction and drying solutions for your home after a flood. 

We can help reduce the standing water concerns by offering efficient flood removal. To accomplish this, we can call upon a wide array of extraction and moisture removal tools in our broad inventory. 

What Tools Are Best for Drying Up Flood Damage? 

Because every flooding situation is different from the last, there are different tools and devices that are best to remove water or dry the area. Identifying the most efficient solution is always the priority, as the sooner standing water gets addressed, the less damaging flooding typically becomes. Some of the standard water removal and drying tools include:

• Air Movers
• Dehumidifiers
• Positive Pressure Systems
• Floor Mat Systems

After a flood, you want your home to look like it did before the disaster as soon as possible. Our SERVPRO of Manassas team can help anytime you need us.