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The Importance of Grill Safety During Fire Season in Southern California

7/8/2024 (Permalink)

The Importance of Grill Safety During Fire Season in Southern California

As the warm months roll in and Southern California's fire season reaches its peak, many Riverside residents find joy in the age-old tradition of grilling. Whether it's in backyards, parks, or campgrounds, the enticing aroma of barbecued meals becomes a staple of summer life. However, amidst the fun and flavor, it's crucial to remember that grill safety is paramount. The region's dry conditions and high temperatures create a perfect storm for potential fire hazards. Here’s why grill safety is essential and how you can ensure your outdoor cooking activities remain safe and enjoyable.

Understanding the Risk

Southern California is notorious for its prolonged fire season, which is exacerbated by dry Santa Ana winds, low humidity, and an abundance of dry vegetation. These conditions make the Riverside area particularly susceptible to wildfires, which can ignite and spread rapidly. A single spark or stray ember from an unattended grill can lead to devastating consequences, endangering lives, residential and commercial property, and the natural landscape.

Grills can cause house fires in several ways:

Grease Buildup: Over time, grease and fat accumulate on grills, particularly in the drip trays. This buildup can easily ignite, causing dangerous flare-ups.

Gas Leaks: Faulty connections or cracked hoses on gas grills can lead to gas leaks, which are a serious fire hazard.

Improper Disposal of Coals: Hot coals from charcoal grills can stay ignited long after cooking is finished, posing a risk if not disposed of properly.

Proximity to Flammable Materials: Placing grills too close to flammable structures like wooden decks or overhanging branches can quickly turn a small flame into a large fire.

Key Safety Tips

Location, Location, Location: Always position your grill in an open area, away from structures, trees, and flammable materials. Ensure it's on a stable, non-combustible surface like concrete or gravel. Avoid placing it on wooden decks or near dry grass.

Check for Restrictions: Before you fire up the grill, check local regulations and fire danger levels. During periods of high fire risk, authorities may impose bans on outdoor cooking to prevent accidental ignitions.

Maintain a Safe Zone: Create a safety zone of at least three feet around the grill. Keep children, pets, and unnecessary items out of this area to prevent accidents and reduce fire risk.

Stay Attentive: Never leave a lit grill unattended. A momentary distraction is all it takes for a small flame to become uncontrollable. Keep a close eye on the grill and have a fire extinguisher or a bucket of sand or water nearby.

Proper Disposal of Coals: If you’re using a charcoal grill, ensure the coals are completely extinguished before disposal. Let them cool down entirely and soak them in water before placing them in a metal container. Never dispose of hot coals in plastic or paper containers.

Use Approved Fuels: Use only charcoal starter fluid designed for grills, and never add lighter fluid to an already lit fire. For gas grills, regularly inspect the propane tank and hoses for leaks.

Be Weather-Wise: Avoid grilling on extremely windy days. Wind can blow embers or flames into surrounding areas, increasing the risk of a fire.

Grills, if not properly maintained, can be a significant fire hazard. In fact, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), grills are responsible for an average of 10,600 home fires annually in the United States. Ensuring your grill is well-maintained is not just a matter of enhancing your culinary skills but also a critical aspect of home safety.

Essential Maintenance Tips

Regular maintenance is the best defense against grill-related fires. Here’s how you can keep your grill in safe, working order:

Routine Cleaning: After each use, clean the grill grates to remove food particles and grease. Periodically, give your grill a thorough cleaning by removing and scrubbing all removable parts. For gas grills, clean the burners to ensure there are no blockages.

Inspect for Leaks: For gas grills, check for gas leaks regularly. A simple way to do this is by applying a soapy water solution to the gas hose and connections. If bubbles form, it indicates a leak, which needs immediate repair.

Check the Grease Trap: Empty and clean the grease trap regularly. Accumulated grease is a common cause of flare-ups.

Examine Hoses and Connections: Inspect all hoses and connections for cracks, holes, or signs of wear. Replace any damaged parts to prevent gas leaks.

Secure the Lid: Ensure the grill lid closes properly. This helps control flare-ups and keeps the heat contained.

Proper Storage: When the grill is not in use, cover it with a grill cover to protect it from the elements and prevent rusting. Store propane tanks outside and away from living areas.

Ventilation: Make sure your grill is well-ventilated to prevent the buildup of dangerous gases.

The Consequences of Neglect

Neglecting grill maintenance can lead to severe consequences. According to the NFPA, nearly half of the grill-related home fires involve structures such as patios, terraces, and porches. The peak months for these incidents are July and August, aligning with the height of grilling season. Fires can cause extensive property damage, injuries, and even fatalities. Taking proactive steps in grill maintenance not only protects your home but also ensures the safety of your family and neighbors.

What to Do in Case of a Fire

Despite all precautions, accidents can happen. If a fire does start:

Stay Calm: Panic can lead to poor decision-making. Take a deep breath and assess the situation.

Extinguish the Fire: Use your fire extinguisher, sand, or water to put out the flames. For gas grills, turn off the gas supply if it’s safe to do so.

Call for Help: If the fire is beyond your control, call 911 immediately and evacuate the area.

How SERVPRO of Woodcrest / El Cerrito / Lake Mathews Can Help

Despite all precautions, accidents can still happen. In the unfortunate event of a grill-related fire, the aftermath can be overwhelming. This is where SERVPRO of Woodcrest / El Cerrito / Lake Mathews steps in to help. SERVPRO of Woodcrest / El Cerrito / Lake Mathews specializes in fire damage restoration, providing comprehensive services to restore your home to its pre-fire condition.

Assessment and Inspection: SERVPRO of Woodcrest / El Cerrito / Lake Mathews professionals conduct a thorough assessment of the fire damage, creating a detailed plan for restoration.

Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Services: To prevent further damage, SERVPRO offers immediate board-up and roof-tarp services.

Water Removal and Drying: Firefighting efforts often involve water, leading to water damage. SERVPRO of Woodcrest / El Cerrito / Lake Mathews uses advanced equipment to remove water and thoroughly dry the affected areas.

Smoke and Soot Removal: SERVPRO of Woodcrest / El Cerrito / Lake Mathews utilizes specialized techniques and equipment to remove smoke and soot from all surfaces, ensuring thorough cleaning.

Cleaning and Sanitizing: SERVPRO of Woodcrest / El Cerrito / Lake Mathews provides deep cleaning and sanitizing of all restorable items and structures affected by the fire, using various cleaning methods.

Restoration: The final step involves restoring your home to its pre-fire condition, which may include minor repairs, painting, and installing new carpets, or major reconstructions.

Conclusion

Grill maintenance is a crucial component of safe grilling practices. By investing time in regular cleaning and inspections, you significantly reduce the risk of grill-related fires. Remember, a well-maintained grill not only operates more efficiently but also provides peace of mind, allowing you to focus on enjoying your outdoor cooking experience wherever you go in Riverside. As you prepare for your next barbecue, keep these maintenance tips in mind to ensure a safe and enjoyable grilling season. Safe grilling is not just about following proper cooking techniques but also about maintaining your equipment in top condition. Prioritize maintenance, and you’ll contribute to reducing the alarming statistics of grill-related house fires. Stay safe and grill on!

If you ever need assistance, call SERVPRO of Woodcrest / El Cerrito / Lake Mathews at 951-398-3240!

What is the SERVPRO® Cleaning Process

7/2/2024 (Permalink)

Image of a ceiling tool cleaning debris and 6 circles with each individual step of the SERVPRO® cleaning process. 6 Steps of SERVPRO Cleaning

Grab your pen & paper, it's time to learn SERVPRO® style!

Have you ever wondered.. What goes on behind the scenes? What goes into place during our cleaning process? Well wonder no more! The type of soil and the surface will often cause the cleaning methods to vary. For example, some of the most common surfaces are paint sheen, type of wallpaper, and/or floor covering. Steps may vary depending on the incident and job needing to be done. However, this is the breakdown of the "Steps in our cleaning process"

Step1: Staging Stage products, tools, and equipment in a safe, yet convenient location near the work area. 

Step 2: Remove and Secure Remove and secure any items from the area such as wall hangings, curtains, and fragile items from the room. Be sure to protect your furniture.

Step 3: Clean Ceiling Clean ceiling systematically, working from one side of the room to another, while carefully cleaning around light fixtures to help prevent breakage or damage. 

Step 4: Clean Walls Clean walls working from bottom to top, or top to bottom. The direction of cleaning is based on the selected cleaning method, Some walls will require multiple methods due to type of paint, décor, or wall trim.

Step 5: Clean Exposed Flooring Clean exposed flooring, re-position furniture, and clean remaining floor covering. Based on the type of flooring, some furniture will be blocked or padded to protect the flooring and/or furniture from damage while the flooring dries. 

Step 6: Replace Wall Hangings Replace wall hanging and curtain and set furniture and belonging into final positions.  For more information, contact your helpful SERVPRO. Don't forget to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube for more informative post on!

Image of a ceiling tool cleaning debris and 6 circles with each individual step of the SERVPRO cleaning process.

Why You Should Get Fire Damage Estimates

5/20/2024 (Permalink)

After a house fire, getting fire damage estimates is critical. Without knowing the full extent of the damage, you may end up overspending on repairs or restoration. Either your homeowners’ insurance company or a third-party restoration company can provide the fire damage estimates for you. After a devastating event like a house fire, it is helpful to know just how much money you have to repair or restore your home to its former state. Since you should hire a restoration company anyway, fire damage estimates make the task of doing so much easier.

Discrepancies in Fire Damage Estimates

If your insurance company and third-party restoration company have a discrepancy in their fire damage estimates, one of two things are likely to happen: they can agree to a middle ground or begin arbitration. Choosing the middle ground option is a compromise of sorts and may include any number of outcomes, which are all dependent on the specifics of your situation. The other option involves including a third party, having them inspect and formulate an appraisal of the damage, and present that as an acceptable value. All of this depends heavily on your insurance company, the restoration company, applicable state laws, and the circumstances surrounding the fire.

What Fire Damage Estimates Do

Fire damage estimates allow you and your hired full-service restoration company to plan the restoration of your home. By having an effective budget, the company can do their best for you and make sure that they can return your home to its former. Most importantly, fire damage estimates include services that restoration companies do that you are unable to, such as removing smoke odors from your home or rebuilding any structures that the fire has damaged. Other costs that require professional help, such as special dry-cleaning of your garments and fabrics, may also be included. Additionally, if you attempt the repairs and accidentally cause more damage, chances are that the insurance does not cover the extra damage, whereas with a restoration company, it is covered.

Fire damage estimates allow a professional full-service restoration company to restore your home to its former state in the most effective manner possible. With a clear plan on which services you need, how much they cost, and how the company implements them, they can cater to your individual needs. After a devastating event such as a fire, money should not be your primary concern. A full-service restoration company can take care of all aspects regarding the remediation of the fire damage so you can concentrate on other things. For more information about fire damage estimates for your home, contact your insurance company.

If you have damage from a fire or smoke from a fire. Call SERVPRO of Woodcrest / Lake Mathews / El Cerrito we will work with you and your insurance directly "Like it never even happened." 951-398-324

Ready, Set, Grill!

5/14/2024 (Permalink)

Ready, Set, Grill!

Local SERVPRO®  fire remediation specialist advises Riverside, CA area grill masters to prepare now for a safe, savory outdoor cooking season

Riverside, CA May 27, 2024— For many, the Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of the summer season. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) warns families that the onset of the summer season also marks a rise in home fires started by outdoor grilling activities. According to the NFPA, on average, 10,600 home fires are started by grills each year. July is the peak month for grill fires, followed by June, May, and August.1

“Sixty-one percent of U.S. households own a gas grill,” says fire remediation specialist George Lingurar of SERVPRO® of Woodcrest / El Cerrito / Lake Mathews. “A total of sixty-four percent own at least one outdoor BBQ, grill, or smoker. The popularity of this outdoor cooking equipment combined with longer, warmer days creates a unique fire hazard that should be taken seriously.”

The time to take precautions is now, adds Lingurar, before the outdoor cooking season is in full swing. The NFPA offers these basic tips for fire-safe grilling:2

For gas/propane grills:

  • Check the gas tank for leaks before using.
  • Open the lid on all gas grills before lighting the grill.

For charcoal grills:

  • Use only charcoal starter fluid to start the fire but never add it or any flammable liquids to a fire that is burning.
  • Cool coals completely before you dispose of them in a metal container.

For all grills:

  • Place grill well away from house and deck railings. Don’t place under eaves or branches.
  • Remove grease and fat buildup from grills and trays after each use.
  • Keep children and pets at least three feet away from the grill.
  • Never leave the grill unattended when in use.

“Basic precautions set the stage for a safe and enjoyable outdoor cooking season,” says Lingurar. “Life is unpredictable, but you can take steps to control the risk of house and property fires caused by outdoor cooking. Whether you are strictly a summer grilling warrior or you use your grill year-round, simple, common-sense actions can help ensure that the only smoke you smell this summer is the sweet aroma of steaks and vegetables grilling.”

SERVPRO® specializes in fire and water cleanup and restoration services and repair services, helping to remediate damage for both commercial and residential customers. For more information on SERVPRO® of of Woodcrest / El Cerrito / Lake Mathews, please contact Nichole Mowrey at 951-476-5419 or nichole@SERVPRO10100.com. For more information on SERVPRO®, please visit https://www.SERVPROwoodcrestelcerritolakemathews.com/.

1 https://www.nfpa.org//-/media/Images/Infographics/Grilling-Infographic2020BIG.png 

2 https://www.nfpa.org/News-and-Research/Publications-and-media/Press-Room/News-releases/2021/NFPA-offers-safe-grilling-tips-and-recommendations-to-prevent-fires-and-injuries 

SERVPRO® of Woodcrest / El Cerrito / Lake Mathews 951-398-3240

Riverside, CA Fire Smoke and Soot Cleanup

5/14/2024 (Permalink)

Smoke damage removal is one of the most difficult aspects of a house fire. It is also one of the most important tasks you need to tackle after a fire has damaged your home, and it is essential that you begin smoke damage removal immediately after a house fire to restore your home to its former state. However, entering your home to begin smoke damage removal after a house fire is usually unsafe, as it is likely your home’s structure has sustained fire and water damage. Therefore, you should always leave smoke damage removal to a professional restoration company, as they have the proper equipment, expertise, and experience to handle this task. To understand why it is necessary to leave this task to a professional, it can be helpful to know some information about the equipment and expertise required to implement smoke damage removal successfully.

Smoke Damage Removal Requires Special Equipment

One of the biggest reasons that smoke damage removal is not something you should do yourself is that it usually requires special, industrial-grade equipment to remove it from your home effectively. Smoke often seeps into the walls of your home and can cause future health issues if not removed properly. The best method for removing smoke odor from your home is with thermal fogging, a technique professionals use that works by opening the pores in your walls and neutralizing the smoke odor hidden within them. This combined with dehumidifiers to dry any water damage and ozone generators to help get the smoky smell out of your home is an effective method professionals use to make your home smoke-free. Depending on the extent of the damage to your home, it is likely the restoration company may need to repaint the walls and ceilings in your home after the smoke damage removal process is complete.

Smoke Damage Removal Requires Certain Expertise

In addition to requiring special equipment to remove smoke from your home thoroughly, smoke damage removal also requires a professional to have certain expertise about the different types of smoke and the necessary chemicals to remove them. For example, the smoke odor from wood can react differently to certain cleaning products than smoke odor from plastics, which means you could damage your home further if you do not know which type of smoke residue and odor you are dealing with. Professional fire restoration companies know details about the different types of smoke and how to deal with them properly, which means they are your best resource for cleaning, repairing, and restoring your home to its original state.

Smoke damage removal is one of the most frustrating and difficult tasks homeowners must deal with after a house fire. It requires much time, effort, and expertise, and is something you should always leave to a professional restoration company. For more information about smoke damage removal or finding the best professional to handle it for you, it is a good idea to contact a fire damage contractor.

If you have damage from a fire or smoke from a fire. Call SERVPRO of Woodcrest / Lake Mathews / El Cerrito we will work with you and your insurance directly "Like it never even happened." 951-398-3240

Effects of Water Damage

5/13/2024 (Permalink)

There are several possible causes of water damage. Leaky dishwashers, clogged toilets, broken pipes, broken dishwasher hoses, overflowing washing machines, leaky roofs, plumbing leaks, and foundation cracks are just some of the possible causes of water damage in homes and businesses. Floods, heavy snow, and heavy rain are other possible causes of this type of damage and can lead to having water in basements. Too much water can lead to minor problems such as water in basement areas, or it can lead to the destruction of homes and businesses. Once a home or business sustains water damage, it is important to start the water damage cleanup immediately. Starting water damage cleanup as soon as possible increases the likelihood of saving water-soaked furniture, carpets, rugs, clothing, and other items.

Call SERVPRO of Woodcrest / Lake Mathews / El Cerrito if you experience any type of water loss at 951-398-3240

Causes of Water Damage

5/7/2024 (Permalink)

There are several possible causes of water damage. Leaky dishwashers, clogged toilets, broken pipes, broken dishwasher hoses, overflowing washing machines, leaky roofs, plumbing leaks, and foundation cracks are just some of the possible causes of water damage in homes and businesses. Floods, heavy snow, and heavy rain are other possible causes of this type of damage and can lead to having water in basements. Too much water can lead to minor problems such as water in basement areas, or it can lead to the destruction of homes and businesses. Once a home or business sustains water damage, it is important to start the water damage cleanup immediately. Starting water damage cleanup as soon as possible increases the likelihood of saving water-soaked furniture, carpets, rugs, clothing, and other items.

Call SERVPRO of Woodcrest / Lake Mathews / El Cerrito if you experience any type of water loss at 951-398-3240

Types of Water Damage

5/6/2024 (Permalink)

Water damage is a problem that most property owners dread. When it rains heavily or snow melts quickly, the risk of this type of damage increases. Water can cause thousands of dollars’ worth of damage Assessing the severity of the damage is important for determining what is needed to start water damage repair and water removal. There are several different categories assigned to water damage. Category 1 refers to clean water, or water that does not pose a threat to humans. Possible causes of this type of damage include broken appliances or sink overflows. Category 2 water is also called gray water. This means that the water is contaminated and may cause sickness of ingested. This type of water contains microorganisms. Broken toilets, broken sump pumps, and seepage may cause category 2 water damage. Category 3 water is known as black water. This type of water is unsanitary, as it contains bacteria and other organisms that cause sickness. The possible sources of black water damage include sewage problems and contamination of standing water.

There are also several classes of water damage. The class of damage is important when assessing water damage repair options. Class 1 is the least harmful form of damage. Materials absorb very little of the water from this type of damage. Water damage repair is the easiest in this type of situation. Class 2 has a fast rate of evaporation, which means that carpets and cushions may be damaged. Water damage repair is more difficult when it involves class 2 damage. Class 3 has the fastest rate of evaporation. In this case, the water may come from broken sprinklers or other overhead sources, soaking the walls and furniture. Class 4 requires special water restoration and water removal procedures. This type of damage may affect hardwood floors, plaster, and concrete

If you have any type of water damage, call SERVPRO of Woodcrest / Lake Mathews / El Cerrito at 951-398-3240

Crucial Things You Should Always Have in Your Home Emergency Kit

5/1/2024 (Permalink)

Whether it's a hurricane, fire, earthquake, flood, or disease outbreak, you need to be prepared with an emergency kit in your car and home. Here's a list of the essential items you'll need in an emergency.

What to pack in a home emergency kit

If time has taught us anything, it's hope for the best but prepare for the worst. The list of possible worst case scenarios now includes Covid-19 and other infectious diseases in addition to the floods, hurricanes, and wildfires that may already be on your radar, depending on where you live.

Keep the kit in a closet or somewhere near an exit door and have another one in your car, Vogel advises.

Here's what experts recommend packing if you need to stay at home or if you need to leave in a hurry:

  1. A communication plan

Sometimes we know that a disaster is on its way but often there's no warning at all. Make sure you have a communication plan in place for either scenario and one that takes into account the different times disasters can occur. You and your family could be at school or work or sleeping when disaster strikes.

"What is your plan to meet up, to reconnect with folks?

Have a list of phone numbers in the kit. You should also include an actual place (perhaps a relative's place) where people can gather should cell phones become unavailable.

Finally, make sure everyone in your family, including and especially any kids, are familiar with the plan

  1. H2O

You need to store some water, but how much? It depends on the disaster as well as where you are geographically.

"Covid-19 is not going to impact your ability to walk to the sink and turn on the faucet," says Tornetta. A hurricane, on the other hand, very well might.

The general rule of thumb is one gallon of water per person (and per pet) per day, aiming for a total three days' supply, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). That said, children, mothers who are nursing, people who are sick, and people in warmer climates may need more, according to the Department of Homeland Security's ready.gov. The NCDP has a Preparedness Wizard that will help you calculate how much water, and other items, you may need. (Here are the signs and symptoms of dehydration.)

  1. Non-perishable food

As with water, experts recommend that you have enough non-perishable food on hand for people and pets to last at least three days, quite possibly more, says Schlegelmilch, who is co-author of the forthcoming book Rethinking Readiness.

Focus on nonperishable items like dry goods and canned goods but some frozen products are also OK. "Even if you lose power, you've got a few days before they start to spoil."  "A combination of frozen and nonperishable is fine."

As for what kind of food, items that are protein-packed and can be prepared without electricity, such as tuna, peanut butter, or granola bars. If you or anyone in your family has special dietary needs, make sure you take those into account.

And oh yes, don't forget to have a non-electric can opener or choose cans that have pop-tops.

  1. First aid kit

It's important not only to have a well-stocked first aid kit, but the knowledge to effectively use each item in that kit as well, if you aren't sure, get  ready-made first aid kits," From American Red Cross. The organization also has a series of apps that can help you build an emergency kit and more. (Here are first aid tricks from ER doctors.)

Also make sure to include contact lens solution, if you wear contact lenses, and asthma inhalers, according to a disaster supplies checklist from the Department of Homeland Security. Also include personal hygiene products and over-the-counter and prescription medications (a seven-day supply, says Tornetta). These days, it would be a good idea to include hand sanitizer, gloves, and face masks, as well. 

The American College of Emergency Physicians recommends keeping the kit in a clear, waterproof, plastic container and putting it in a visible place.

  1. Multipurpose tool

Simple or complex, multipurpose tools can be lifesavers. "Your multipurpose tool should be able to do what other widely used tools—like a screwdriver, pair of pliers, or scissors—can do," And definitely a can opener, if you haven't invested in pop-top cans. 

Your car should also have its own emergency tool kit which includes water and high-energy non-perishable food but also an inflated spare tire, the jack and wheel wrench, jumper cables, reflective triangles and brightly colored cloth. If the weather's cold, add a snow brush, shovel, blankets, and windshield washer fluid.

  1. Cash

Covid-19 isn't likely to affect ATMs or credit-card machines, but hurricanes and other natural disasters could put them out of commission.

"The digital systems work pretty well but after Katrina there were prolonged power outages." "You may be in a situation where credit-card machines [and ATMs] are down."

That means you may have to rely on good old hard cash during an emergency.

"Not everybody has enough money to do this but if you're able to set aside a few dollars, it's definitely a good thing," 

Ready.gov recommends having small bills available so you can buy fuel and food.

  1. Gas

"Fill up early and fill up often," Hart says. "With Hurricane Irma, we had advance notice—it's important to think, 'What do I need to do to start preparing right now?' Even if you don't know where the hurricane's going, as soon as it's a possibility for you in your area, think about things like gas. Your presence of mind when a catastrophe is far away is much clearer than your presence of mind when you're in the throes of that catastrophe."

Schlegelmilch recommends having your tank at least half full at all times.

And while having extra gas cans may be tempting, bear in mind that this can be a fire hazard,

  1. A change of clothes

Or two or three. It's important to have the right kind and amount of clothes you'll need in any given situation.

"Consider protective clothes and outerwear. Think: coats, windbreakers, ponchos, rain jackets,"  She also notes the importance of items that will wear well across all climates—so anything versatile, durable, and comfortable—is a universally safe choice. "Follow the same three-day rule here, too," she says. "And, as we talked about earlier, remember to change your supply out annually. Our children grow from year to year."

Layers are an especially good idea for any warmer or colder conditions. As are socks in case you get wet.

  1. Closed-toe shoes

If you're leaving really quickly, you may not have a chance to pick your ideal shoes but, if you can, take closed-toe shoes. "You might not know exactly where you're going." "If you have to be in a shelter environment or walking through areas, that's just to protect your feet from all of that. If you can only grab one pair of shoes, don't grab the flip flops."

This could be especially important in areas that have been damaged by hurricanes or tornadoes. "There's a lot of debris," says Tornetta. "We want our team to wear closed-toe shoes so there's no chance of getting a splinter or some kind of infection."

  1. Low-tech basics

Technology isn't always reliable, especially in a disaster. That means you should have some low-tech options on hand such as a hand crank, battery-powered radio and flashlight, and extra batteries, says Vogel. Garbage bags are good not only for holding trash but also to keep things dry, and matches in a waterproof container are a good idea too.

Light plastic sheeting and duct tape can be invaluable if you have broken windows because of a hurricane or tornado.

Just in case technology does survive the storm, fire, or pandemic, keep some extra portable charging blocks on hand as well. And you should also have a car charger for your cell phone.

  1. Important documents

This is important not just during the disaster, but for rebuilding your life after. Having key legal and personal documents can go a long way towards minimizing stress once the immediate damage has passed. Make sure you know the signs that you may be suffering from serious stress.

Legal Aid recommends keeping these papers together so you can grab them in a hurry:

* Identification, be it a driver's license, passport, or another photo ID.
* Insurance documents like life insurance, flood and fire insurance as well as homeowners or rental insurance.
* Legal documents. This includes birth certificates, any child custody or adoption paper, wills, powers of attorney, and the like.

You can scan your documents or take pictures with your smart phone or make photocopies and store those in your evacuation preparedness kit, says Tornetta. "Have an extra copy of your driver's license and social security card. If you have to flee in a hurry, you may forget your ID or your wallet if they're stored in a separate place."

You can also store these documents online, or in a thumb drive.

SERVPRO of Woodcrest / El Cerrito / Lake Mathews 

951-398-3240

Deep Clean Your Office with SERVPRO® Commercial Cleaning Services!

4/22/2024 (Permalink)

Cleanliness is paramount, especially in commercial spaces. Wherever you go in Riverside, from bustling offices to vibrant restaurants, maintaining a pristine environment isn't just about appearances; it's about ensuring the health and safety of everyone who walks through the door. This is where SERVPRO of Woodcrest / El Cerrito / Lake Mathews commercial cleaning steps in, offering a comprehensive range of services tailored to meet the unique needs of businesses. Whether you require routine deep cleaning and sanitization or find yourself facing unexpected challenges like a flood in the bathroom or a microwave fire mishap, SERVPRO of Woodcrest / El Cerrito / Lake Mathews has the experience and resources to restore your space and keep the business going!

Deep Cleaning and Sanitization:

At the heart of SERVPRO of Woodcrest / El Cerrito / Lake Mathews' commercial cleaning services lies a commitment to thoroughness and excellence. Our team understands that a clean environment isn't just about what meets the eye; it's about eliminating hidden germs and pathogens that can compromise the health of your employees and customers.

Using industry-leading techniques and eco-friendly products, our professionals delve deep into every corner of your space, targeting areas that are often overlooked during routine cleaning. From high-touch surfaces to hard-to-reach crevices, we leave no stone unturned to ensure a safe and hygienic environment for all.

In today's climate, the importance of sanitization cannot be overstated. With SERVPRO of Woodcrest / El Cerrito / Lake Mathews, you can rest assured that your commercial and office space receives the highest standard of cleanliness, providing peace of mind in uncertain times.

Emergency Response:

Disasters can strike when you least expect them, threatening to disrupt your business and wreak havoc on your commercial property. Whether it's a toilet flood in your bathroom or vandalism leaving behind unsightly graffiti, SERVPRO of Woodcrest / El Cerrito / Lake Mathews is here to help.

Our team of trained professionals is available 24/7 to respond swiftly to emergencies, minimizing downtime and mitigating further damage. It doesn’t matter where you are, we can go throughout the Riverside area and we’ll be there before you know it! In the event of a flood, we utilize advanced water extraction techniques and industrial-grade drying equipment to restore your space to its preloss condition.  If there is ever a fire mishap, SERVPRO of Woodcrest / El Cerrito / Lake Mathews stands ready to assist with our specialized fire damage restoration services. Our experienced technicians are trained in the latest techniques to effectively remove soot, smoke residue, and odors from your property. When faced with graffiti or other forms of vandalism, our specialty cleaning services can remove even the toughest stains, leaving your surfaces looking as good as new. Using advanced equipment and proven methods, we work diligently to restore your space to its preloss condition, minimizing downtime and allowing you to resume normal business operations as quickly as possible.

Specialty Cleaning:

In addition to our standard cleaning services, SERVPRO of Woodcrest / El Cerrito / Lake Mathews offers a range of specialty solutions to address specific needs. Whether you're dealing with stubborn grease buildup in your kitchen or lingering odors that just won't go away, our team has the expertise and equipment to tackle even the most challenging cleaning tasks.

From air duct cleaning to odor removal, we tailor our services to meet your unique requirements, delivering results that exceed your expectations every time. With SERVPRO of Woodcrest / El Cerrito / Lake Mathews on your side, you can trust that your commercial space is in the hands of professionals who are dedicated to excellence in every aspect of their work.

SERVPRO of Woodcrest / El Cerrito / Lake Mathews commercial cleaning offers a comprehensive solution for Riverside businesses seeking to maintain a clean, safe, and inviting environment for their employees and customers. From routine deep cleaning and sanitization to emergency response and specialty cleaning services, our team is committed to delivering exceptional results that enhance the overall success of your business.

When you choose SERVPRO of Woodcrest / El Cerrito / Lake Mathews, you're not just selecting a deep cleaning service; you're investing in reliability. With our proven track record of excellence and dedication to quality, you can rest assured that your commercial space is receiving top-tier care from a team of professionals committed to exceeding your expectations.