Get Your Business as Clean as Possible | SERVPRO® of Anaheim Central/Garden Grove East

7/30/2021 (Permalink)

Get your business Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned today.

Throughout the country, including Anaheim, areas are experiencing decreasing cases of COVID-19. Business are beginning to open, and the general population is getting back to shopping, eating out and attending outdoor activities.

As the world reopens, consumers are paying close attention to businesses and the precautions they take on behalf of their customers. Everyone wants and deserves a clean shopping or eating out experience.

It’s important that you offer them piece of mind and let them know your establishment is Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.

The Basics of a Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned program

The Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned program provides your business with an “order of magnitude clean” not just an “incremental clean.”

Once you have this elite designation, customers can rest assured they are entering a clean establishment.

Our advanced biohazard cleaning processes provide your business with a clean and safe environment for your clients, customers and employees. For anyone that comes through your door, that will provide trust and peace of mind!

These extra steps set us apart from other programs on the market:

Consult. Since all business are different, we’ll work with you to create a plan that works for your business. SERVPRO of Anaheim Central/Garden Grove East is locally owned and operated, so we are familiar with the complexities of the area.

Clean. With the plan in place, it’s time to get cleaning. Our proprietary, hospital-grade cleaning solutions can’t be found with any other company. Your business will receive a degree of cleanliness that is unrivaled. Adhering to or exceed CDC standards is our policy.

Certify. The Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned shield can be displayed on windows, and we can also provide you a digital shield to be used for your online presence. This lets your customers know that they are about to enter a business that cares about their safety and well-being.

If you’re ready to get serious about sanitation and have your business Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, get in touch today to get the best team in cleanup and restoration on your side.

What to Look for When Choosing a Storm Restoration Provider | SERVPRO® of Anaheim Central/Garden Grove East

6/8/2021 (Permalink)

Storms can be scary, we can help.

Storms are never an enjoyable event to endure, and if they cause damage to your home or business, they are a source of even more added stress. Storms have grown more severe with time, which is why we always recommend knowing exactly how you will handle damage in advance in case it ever comes your way.

When it comes to handling damage to your home or commercial property, the right restoration company will make all the difference in the way the process goes. The company you choose will be in charge of handling every aspect of your damages, so working with one that has your best interests in mind is so important.

Picking Your Storm Restoration Company

Consider what their reputation is. Just like with any other service you would get for your home, doing your research on a restoration provider is so important. There are many scams that are common in areas that have recently been hit by storms, so finding a restoration company like us that is both well-respected in the area and as a restoration provider is so important.

Be sure they can handle any spikes in demand. When a storm or other weather event impacts an entire neighborhood, there will be a spike in demand for restoration—and finding a company that can handle that is vital to getting the best service possible. When we need backup or more resources, we can get in touch with SERVPRO® partners throughout the country to get the workforce we need to match the demand.

Take note of what their hours are. There is no schedule that severe weather follows, and in our experience, it often strikes at the most inconvenient time. No matter what hour you sustain damage to your home, you can be certain that we will be here to help you. You can get in touch with us any time of the day or night, and we will gather all your information and begin formulating a response so your damage can be handled as soon as possible.

When you have damage from a storm to your home or commercial building, you can always depend on us to handle it. Contact us at any hour to see our exceptional service in action.

The 6 Steps We Take for Water Damage Restoration | SERVPRO® of Garden Grove East/Anaheim Central

6/8/2021 (Permalink)

Our Crews are highly trained and certified to assist with any water damage.

Water damage is an alarming and overwhelming thing to experience, but you should always take immediate steps to start the restoration process—which is why we are here ²⁴⁄₇.

When you call us, we will immediately spring into action and implement our six-step water damage restoration procedure.

6 Steps to Water Damage Restoration

1. Initial Emergency Contact
Water damage has no respect for a schedule, so we are always here to answer your call once you discover it. We start by gathering as much information as we can over the phone, so we know exactly what equipment and how many technicians to send as a response.

2. Inspection and Damage Assessment
Upon arrival, our trained technicians will immediately assess the area for lingering water flow or safety hazards to keep everyone safe. From there, we will fully inspect the affected area so we can develop a restoration plan to get things back to normal as quickly as possible.

3. Moisture Extraction
Allowing standing moisture to sit untreated is one of the worst things that you can do for water damage, which is why we immediately start extracting excess moisture from the area. Our vacuums can handle hundreds of gallons at a time to quickly get most water removed.

4. Dehumidifying and Drying
Once most of the excess water is removed, we can also begin removing humidity and drying out impacted porous surfaces so they are not left holding water. Not properly removing water from objects, fabrics and surfaces can lead to musty odors caused by damaging mold growth.

5. Cleaning Belongings
The thorough cleaning of items that are water-damaged is key to keeping them safe for your family to utilize every day. Because items can absorb water, we fully sanitize and deodorize everything that has come into contact with it so you have no lingering issues due to the damage.

6. Restoration and Repair
You can not only count on us for moisture removal, but you can depend on us for a complete restoration process, including any structural or cosmetic repairs required. From patching drywall to installing new floor treatments, we can fully restore your home or office. Call us for your free inspection. 

If your home has been water-damaged, you can count on us to help. Call us ²⁴⁄₇ to get the process started.

Helping Your Business Thrive During Tough Times | SERVPRO® of Anaheim Central/Garden Grove East

6/7/2021 (Permalink)

Allow us to assist your business thrive during tough times.

We want business owners here in Garden Grove to know our team supports them.

One of the reasons we’re so passionate about that work is because our location is locally owned and operated.

Navigating pandemic changes is a challenge for business owners across the country. You’ve probably spent a good portion of your time recently working through new ways to connect with your customers and deliver services in new ways.

Many businesses have already opened their doors again, and others have found new ways to work remotely or offer products online.

That isn’t an option for everyone, though. Many restaurant owners, for example, are now offering takeout and delivery options in lieu of indoor dining. Outdoor seating is an option for some restaurant owners, too.

Other business owners are ready to get back to “normal,” though. They’re prepared to reopen as soon as they can and want to go back to serving customers face-to-face.

Take Advantage of Available Resources

You can find plenty of tools to help you navigate the new business environment. There’s support for you at every level to ensure you can continue serving customers and weather the pandemic.

Some of your options include information about available business loans and tips, advice and more from trustworthy resources.

The SERVPRO Difference

Our team wants to help you, too.

We’re available at any time to help you get your business “Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.” That means a team of experts will use the latest technology to ensure your business is safe for everyone.

Here’s what’s involved in our process:

First, we’ll consult with you about your needs.

Then we’ll clean your space. And we mean really clean it! Our teams use proprietary EPA-Approved Hospital-Grade cleaning solutions. Plus, we use cleaning and decontamination standards directly from the CDC.

Finally, our teams certify your space.

If you need cleaning assistance at your business, we’re here. We have crews who are available ²⁴⁄₇ in the event of an emergency. Contact us at any time to learn more about our cleaning services and how we can help you.

How Can I Plan Ahead to Prevent House Fires? | SERVPRO® of Anaheim Central/Garden Grove East

6/7/2021 (Permalink)

Be Prepared - Plan Ahead!

No one wants to experience a house fire, but how confident are you that you are doing everything you can to prevent one? Fires can start suddenly and only take around 30 seconds to spread—meaning prevention is the best strategy for ensuring you never have to experience one.

Fortunately, there are many prevention measures people can take to keep their household safer from fires. While there is no way to ensure you will never experience a fire, doing your due diligence around the house can go a long way in ensuring reducing the chances that one will start.

Reduce the Chances That a House Fire Will Start

Check your smoke detectors. There are few things more important to fire safety than operational smoke alarms being installed throughout the home. You should make it a habit to check your smoke alarms every 30 days, and ensure you know when to replace your batteries or the unit as per your manufacturer’s guidelines.

Create a fire escape plan. It is important for the safety of everyone in the household that you have a comprehensive fire escape plan that is regularly practiced. It should only take two minutes to exit the home, and every room should have two ways to get out so no one will be trapped in the house depending on where the fire starts.

Limit your fire risks. Anytime you practice good fire safety habits around the house, you are significantly reducing the chances a fire will start. Simple things, such as cleaning your dryer’s lint catcher, not overloading electrical outlets and installing surge protectors, can go a long way in house fire prevention.

Keep a fire extinguisher handy. Though fire extinguishers will not always be appropriate to use, if there is a small, contained fire and you are able to, using a fire extinguisher can reduce the damage a fire can cause. It is always smart to have an extinguisher if there is an open flame present and ensure everyone around knows how to use it just in case.

If your home is damaged by a house fire, we are here to help. Our expert fire restoration technicians are here ²⁴⁄₇ to spring into action as soon as you call. Contact us at any hour to report your damage and receive a quick response.

How to Look for Water Damage in Your Garden Grove Home | SERVPRO® of Anaheim Central/Garden Grove East

6/3/2021 (Permalink)

Ways to Look for Water Damage.

Homeowners in Garden Grove, Anaheim, Santa Ana and other surrounding communities may not be sure when it’s the right time to seek water damage help. And that’s understandable—many homeowners are unsure if what they’re seeing warrants a professional evaluation and intervention.

Our specialists are here to walk you through figuring it out.

When It’s More Than a Little Water

The reality is that more and more homeowners will have to deal with water damage claims over the coming year. Experts say that the number of fire damage claims have fallen over recent years, but the number of water damage claims keeps rising

So if you suspect you’re dealing with water damage at home, here are some of the signs you shouldn’t miss.

Your home now has a musty odor. Noticing an unusual (and unexplainable) smell can be one of the first signs your home has water damage that should be addressed. The smell is an early sign of mold or mildew. And that can only get worse over time.

You notice changes to your walls and windows. Warped, stained, or wet walls, doorframes, and window panes are a sign of water damage to your property. These issues worsen as time progresses, so you want to start correcting them as soon as they’re visible. And window panes and doorframes can let more water in from outside if they’re compromised.

Your floorboards or furniture are warping. Wood can be damaged within days. If that happens in your home, it’s best to start seeking help from professionals who can help you restore your home.

Water can begin to damage your home in just a few hours, so if you see any of these signs, it’s smart to immediately begin the restoration process. That’s why our team is here to help you at any time.

If you have water damage in your home due to a burst pipe or another cause, you can count on us for restoration assistance. We have teams who are available ²⁴⁄₇ in the event of an emergency. Contact us at any time to learn more about our restoration services.

How Do I Know If My Basement Has Water Damage? | SERVPRO® of Anaheim Central/Garden Grove East

5/28/2021 (Permalink)

Check Out These Top 3 Signs of Basement Water Damage and learn how SERVPRO® of Anaheim Central / Garden Grove East can assist.

Basements are great additions to houses. The extra room for storage is great, but it can also act as a safe go-to spot for storm threats and can be utilized as a large additional living space if it’s partially or fully finished.

If you have a basement, it will be wise over the course of your time owning or renting the home to make it a habit to check for water damage. Basements are dug into the ground, and this makes them more prone to experiencing water damage than other part of your house.

The Top 3 Signs of Basement Water Damage

Musky, unpleasant odors. There is a common myth that all basements have a smelly odor, but this is not the case. Water that gets into basements can be clean and then evaporate, but if it has sat around for too long, it can turn quite pungent and unpleasant. The smell from this aftermath is coming from mold and mildew that are present in the environment, so even if you don’t see any mold, the smell will confirm its presence.

Flaking paint on masonry or walls. Trying to prevent any damage, some people may apply waterproof paint to the interior walls of a basement, especially if they suspect a leak could happen. Unfortunately, this paint will just hide the issue for a bit, but will eventually turn into a compounding issue later on. Moisture that creeps in will, over time, work away at this paint, and it can lead to cracking, peeling or bubbling.

Cracks in the foundation. Homes shift over the years, but finding a crack in the foundation is not normal and can indicate water damage. These cracks can appear in the floor, ceiling or walls of your home, and many times are signs that there is water putting pressure on the home in a way that is likely to cause cracking. While a hairline crack is not a reason to sound the alarm, if it grows in length or width, it should be treated immediately.

Have you noticed any of these “symptoms” in your basement? Contact us and let us help you determine the root of these issues and how we can help treat it.

Make a Plan for Recovery After a Disaster Strikes Your Business | SERVPRO® of Anaheim Central/Garden Grove East

5/23/2021 (Permalink)

Make sure that you have a plan in place and learn the steps to take to get your business back up and running as quickly as possible.

When you own a business, there is much pride to be taken in building up your brand and investing in your own success. However, the excitement that comes from this is the same reason why disasters can be so disheartening for business owners.

Many businesses do not reopen after a disaster, which can occur for varying reasons but can also be mitigated through good planning before the disaster ever occurs.

We always recommend putting safety as your highest priority, so we encourage you to make sure you have taken into account how to keep your staff safe first and foremost. However, once this is complete, it is wise to consider what to do to kick off the recovery process so you can return back to a sense of normalcy as quickly as possible following the disaster.

Returning to Normalcy After Your Business Is Impacted By a Disaster

Determine your commercial insurance coverage. What your business insurance will provide coverage for will vary based on your policy, but you should check with them as soon as you can to see if you are eligible to file a claim and determine how to do so. Once this is done, get in touch with your restoration company to begin that process as well—they should be able to handle the communications with your insurance company on your behalf, too.

Make customers aware of your plans for reopening. It is important to let your customers know what is happening in the wake of a disaster, whether it is through signage or social media. It is also smart to come up with creative ways that people can still show their support while you are closed, whether it be through online purchases, gift cards or some other avenue that can provide your business with income even while you work to recover.

Take advantage of the assistance that is offered. Once a disaster has been declared, there are many resources that business owners may be eligible to make use of. The program for disaster loans from the Small Business Administration is a great resource, as these loans can be used for a variety of expenses after a disaster and are often easy to qualify for and carry low interest rates.

If your business has been damaged due to a disaster, we’re here to help. Contact us at any hour to report your damage or to learn more about our commercial restoration services.

Fire Safety Considerations for Grilling | SERVPRO® of Anaheim Central/Garden Grove East

5/18/2021 (Permalink)

As Summer approaches, use these very helpful tips to stay and still enjoy a good BBQ.

There are few things that make it feel like summertime more than having a cookout and sharing a fresh, grilled meal with your family. While grilling is certainly one of the most fun ways to cook, it is also one of the most dangerous—and if you are neglecting safety concerns, you may quickly have a grill fire on your hands.

The reports from the U.S. Fire Administration shows just how common grill fires are—over 5,500 happen each year. A grill fire can lead to damage to your yard and your home, but you can practice grill safety to lower your chances of this occurring.

Practicing Grill Safety to Lower Your Chances of a Fire

Create a safe zone around your grill. Of course, convenience might be the factor that comes to mind when deciding where to place your grill, but do not forget about safety concerns as well. A sudden flare-up can ignite anything in its path, which is why a minimum of three feet of clearance is advised for wherever you set up your grill station.

Clean your grill grates often. The food buildup on your grill grates do more than just make cooking inconsistent—they also pose a fire hazard if they become hot enough to ignite. A simple scraping of the grates after each use is generally enough to prevent this from occurring, as it will remove any caked-on grease or crumbs that pose a hazard.

Never leave the grill unattended. Even if you need to walk away from the grill for a moment, you should always ask someone to take your place. A flare-up can happen suddenly even with the lid on, and if your back is turned, things can become catastrophic quickly. Always stay vigilant about watching the grill and keep a fire extinguisher within reach in case it is needed.

Inspect the grill regularly. Double-check your grill’s hardware every time you use it to prevent any accidents. Make sure the lid closes properly and that the connection to the gas tank is still air-tight and shows no signs of wear. Gas leaks are an extremely common cause of grill fires, so you may want to replace your hoses or connectors if issues arise

If you have a grill fire that does damage to your home, we are here to help. You can call us any time, day or night, to have a quick response from our restoration experts.

Why We Focus on Restoring the Objects You Love | SERVPRO® of Anaheim Central/Garden Grove East

5/18/2021 (Permalink)

We will always try to restore your property and/or contents that you love before deeming them unsalvageable.

It can be extremely difficult to discover you have damage to your home after a storm, fire or water damage incident. Not only are your belongings important, but the emotional impact can be significant, as well.

The recovery process is often a long journey, and it is normal to feel as though it is difficult to get back on track.

Though the recovery process is always going to be a tough one, working with a restoration company that provides you with peace of mind can make all the difference in the process. We can handle every aspect of restoration, even handling insurance on your behalf—and when you choose us, you can be certain that we will do everything we can to salvage your items when possible.

Reasons Behind Our Commitment to Salvaging Your Belongings

We can help you save money on your insurance. Through your homeowners insurance, you can often file a claim for damage from water, fires or storms that impact your home. While this can help offset the restoration cost, claims from these types of incidents are typically expensive, which will then be reflected in your premiums. By restoring your objects, we can lower the cost you have to claim and save you money in the long run.

We can protect your sentimental items. Not everything in your home can simply be repurchased in a store, and some objects could never be replaced. That is why we make sure to keep the technology we use completely up to date, so we always have the latest in restoration capabilities. Because of our equipment, we have restored heirlooms, family photos and art that could never be replaced if lost to the damages.

We make sure your home feels like home again. With our experience with helping the community recover from damages, we understand the complex emotions and difficulties involved. The feeling of walking back into your house and having it feel like home is priceless—and we do our best to provide that feeling to every one of our clients by saving the objects we are able to whenever possible.

If you have damages and are feeling overwhelmed, we are here to help. You can call us as soon as you need to in order to begin the restoration process. Contact us today to learn more.

Choose a Restoration Team With the Best Training | SERVPRO® of Anaheim Central/Garden Grove East

5/3/2021 (Permalink)

Fires, flooding, wind, severe storms and accidents damage about one in 20 American homes every year. So if you find yourself filing a damage claim to cover something that happened to your home, you’ll be in good company.

Homeowners don’t always need the type of help provided by restoration professionals. But on occasion, homeowners will need the help of expert technicians to ensure that their homes can be restored to their original state.

When that happens, it’s important to understand the home restoration process, how it works and what makes a restoration team the right choice for you and your home.

More Frequent Than You Think

The statistic about how many homeowners will file an insurance claim comes from the Insurance Information Institute The statistic includes all causes of damage.

We also have some statistics about individual types of disasters and issues, though. For example, about one out of every 350 American homeowners will deal with a fire damage claim each year. Those claims include fires caused by everything from appliance malfunctions to lightning strikes. Water damage claims will be filed by about one in 50 homeowners.

That translates to millions of American homeowners, and some of these homeowners will need to seek help from restoration professionals to restore their homes. That’s where choosing a quality restoration company will make all the difference for you.

Choose the Experts With the Best Training

Our team members pride themselves on offering an excellent level of restoration services. It matters on several levels, including response time, availability and training. We take special pride in the level of training our technicians to receive.

Beyond the training offered by SERVPRO at a national level, our technicians earn valuable certifications through the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification. This non-profit group provides various certifications to ensure restoration and cleaning technicians can use the latest proven techniques when restoring your home.

If your home is damaged due to a fire or any other cause, you can always count on us for restoration assistance. We have teams who are available ²⁴⁄₇ in the event of an emergency. Contact us at any time to learn more about our restoration services and how we can help your family.

Your Timing Makes a Difference When Your Home Needs Restoration Services | SERVPRO® of Anaheim Central/Garden Grove East

2/23/2021 (Permalink)

Make sure you have the proper coverage before your home or business experiences any damage.

Homeowners file millions of claims every year to get help repairing damage and remediating issues like water damage and mold.

No two of these claims are identical. Many claims are the result of natural disasters like severe weather issues, like wind, hail and rain. Home accidents and appliance malfunctions are also common reasons people file claims.

Damage levels vary, too. Sometimes minor work and repairs are enough to restore a home to its original condition. In other cases, remediation and repair work are more serious and require much more time and effort.

They all have something in common. Do you know what it is? It’s timing. The sooner they begin the process of repairing their homes, the better the results are.

Move Fast When Your Home Is Damaged

Damage after a disaster can worsen much faster than you might expect. Within hours, water damage begins to damage the wood. The damage is visible within only days.

We know it’s important to start the home restoration process fast, so our team is here for you ²⁴⁄₇. We’re always here when you need restoration and repair work. You can get in touch with our team at any time. That means if you need our help, we’re available to assist you on nights, weekends and holidays. All you have to do is call us.

Beyond speed, there are plenty of other reasons so many residents trust us to do their restoration work.

We’re a proud, local business. When you get in touch with our team, you’re calling people who live and work in your community. We’re locally owned, so we want to serve our friends and neighbors when they most need our help.

Technicians on our team are highly trained. When a SERVPRO team comes to help you, you can be sure the technicians have the most advanced training and certifications available in our field. We use that knowledge to create a personalized plan for your home’s restoration.

Our teams have advanced technology. We have access to the types of technology that are only available to well-known, established companies. We use that technology and those methods to work you on your home.

If your home is damaged due to fire, water or any other cause, you can always count on us for restoration assistance. We have teams who are available ²⁴⁄₇ in the event of an emergency. Contact us at any time to learn more about our restoration services and how we can help your family.

Memorize These Safety Tips Regarding Summer Storms | SERVPRO® of Garden Grove East/Anaheim Central

2/19/2021 (Permalink)

Longer days and higher humidity means that thunderstorms are far more likely to break out—and even if they are just quickly passing showers, they should be taken seriously.

Any storm that produces thunder also produces lightning and can lead to hail and high winds, so understanding how to stay safe no matter where a storm catches you can help you protect yourself.

Stay Safe From Summer Storms Anywhere

Know your options for shelter. If you are at home and know that a storm is on the way, staying put is generally your best bet for staying safe. Unfortunately, that will not always be the case. If you are out and about when a storm draws near, your car is not a bad place to take shelter as long as you park safely, turn off the engine and avoid touching metals in the vehicle.

Practice electrical safety. Lightning will often travel through a building’s wires as it heads toward the ground, creating a power surge that can travel up the cords of anything that is plugged in. To avoid damage to your electronics and the harmful sparking that can result, install surge protectors at home and in your office space and unplug things entirely if you have time.

Avoid direct contact with concrete. While it may feel like a concrete structure is the safest place you can be, concrete poses its own hazards despite being extremely structurally sound. Most concrete for floors and walls is poured around metal bracing materials, so concrete can actually disperse an electrical charge if struck by lightning. Avoid touching concrete if possible during a storm.

Stay indoors for at least 30 minutes. When your summer fun is interrupted by a thunderstorm, you will want to get back to what you were doing as soon as the skies clear. However, experts recommend waiting at least a half hour before you resume any activities to be on the safe side, as lightning has been known to strike as much as 25 miles away from the storm clouds.

If your home sustains damage due to a storm, you can count on us to help. Contact us at any hour to learn more about our storm restoration process.

Bring Fire Safety to the Forefront of Your Business | SERVPRO® of Garden Grove East/Anaheim Central

2/14/2021 (Permalink)

Every business owner knows the importance of preparing for risks and understanding potential pitfalls, but many do not consider how their emergency planning plays into this. Commercial fires happen more often than many realize, and planning ahead is the best way to reduce the devastation they can bring.

The most important part of any fire plan is safety, for you and for your staff. Scheduling regular, comprehensive fire drills for your employees is a great way to make sure everyone will feel ready to handle a real-world scenario and reduce panic in a stressful time. Here are the steps to take to set fire evacuation planning into motion:

Setting Fire Evacuation Planning Into Motion for Your Business

Consult with your local fire officials. You should certainly take advantage of all the resources at your disposal to boost your fire safety, including your local fire marshal. They will be able to come in and educate you on how to plan out your evacuation routes and what steps you can take to boost your business’ fire safety overall to create a safer workplace.

Communicate and mark fire evacuation routes. After you have planned out several evacuation routes throughout your building, communicate them to your staff and prepare them for your drills. While you do not have to tell staff when exactly a drill will occur, make sure they know the pathways available to them and what the procedures are.

Have fire drills frequently. Having fire drills often—but not so often that they become mundane—is key to solidifying the safety procedures in everyone’s minds. Many businesses schedule drills to take place once every quarter, but you may find that your needs vary depending on your industry and staff size.

Run different fire scenarios. While there may be areas in your building that are more likely to experience a fire, it is important to plan for every possible scenario instead of just the most likely ones. As you plan out your drills, include different scenarios and situations so that every drill is different and your staff can be prepared for any situation that comes their way.

If your business has experienced fire damage, you can count on us. We specialize in commercial fire restoration and will be here for you at any hour—contact us today.

Tips to Give Your Safety a Boost When Severe Weather Is in the Forecast | SERVPRO® of Garden Grove East/Anaheim Central

2/9/2021 (Permalink)

Though severe weather can be quite a regular occurrence in the spring and summer months, it is important to take every instance of it seriously. Any storm can cause damage to people and their property, leaving devastation and destruction in its wake.

Therefore, it is important to do what you are able to in advance in order to increase your personal safety in case of severe weather. Understanding what common weather alerts refer to, stocking your household with disaster supplies and having multiple ways to tune into emergency broadcasts can all give your storm safety a boost.

Understand What Common Weather Alerts Refer To

Having an understanding of severe weather watches and warnings will help you stay informed and know how to prepare when these alerts are dispatched. When a severe weather watch occurs, it means that severe weather is a possibility as a result of current weather readings, but no action (aside from attentiveness) is required. If a severe weather warning is issued, that means that severe weather has been picked up on radar and thus poses an imminent threat to the nearby area.

Stock Your Household With Disaster Supplies

When a severe weather warning is dispatched from local officials, you want to be sure that you stay put and stay safe until the storm passes. That is why you should always stock your household with disaster supplies so you can safely hold out until the worst of the weather passes. Nonperishable foods, adequate amounts of water, flashlights and batteries are all good things to include. Additionally, have a designated spot to head to during severe weather—preferably on the ground floor and away from any windows that could shatter during high winds.

Have Multiple Ways to Tune Into Emergency Broadcasts

While most of us rely on our smartphones to get information about the weather, this method can have some drawbacks and is not reliable during severe weather. Because cell reception can be spotty during severe storms and electricity is often unreliable, make sure you have multiple ways to get alerts that do not depend on the traditional power grid. A non-electric weather radio powered by batteries or manually is often a good solution for this.

If your home has been impacted by storm damage, we are here for you. You can contact us ²⁴⁄₇ to get a quick response to your home’s damages.

Precautionary Steps to Help Reduce COVID-19 Exposure

7/21/2020 (Permalink)

Our highly trained SERVPRO Technicians wiping down and disinfecting all high touch surface areas.

It is important to us that our customers know the steps SERVPRO of Anaheim Central / Garden Grove East is taking to reduce the risk of team member exposure to the virus.  These precautionary steps we have taken as a company include:

• All tools and equipment coming into your property have been cleaned and disinfected.
• All workers wear personal protective equipment to protect themselves while performing work.
• We’ve all been provided with training to safely work in contaminated environments.
• We’ve all been provided with training to identify coronavirus symptoms and carefully monitor ourselves and our co-workers.
• We have stringent safety and health policies and procedures; and we continually strive to follow and improve our safe work practices.

Overall, we are taking the appropriate measures to ensure we don’t cross contaminate our customers, our co-workers, or our families.  We cannot make any guarantees that the virus could not enter your property, but we can tell you that we have taken every possible measure to protect customers and team members alike.

Whether it is a water loss, fire damage, or a cleaning service, please know that SERVPRO is still here for the entire Anaheim, Garden Grove, Santa Ana and surrounding communities 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Please call us with any questions that you may have. We're always here to help!

We're Open and Here to Help!

4/9/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is Here to Help during this pandemic!

Our Franchise has been deemed an Essential Service Provider and we feel that our customers are just as essential, that's why we are open for business and will remain open to assist anyone who needs help with Water Damage, Fire Damage, Smoke and Soot Removal, Mold Removal, and Proactive Cleaning during this pandemic. Our crew practices safe social distancing when entering your residence or place of business by following all CDC guidelines.

Please don't hesitate to reach out to us for assistance. We offer free inspections and free estimates.

Avoid Storm Damage With These Weatherproofing Tips | SERVPRO® of Garden Grove East/Anaheim Central

4/9/2020 (Permalink)

Weatherproof your home today with these easy tips.

Though every house is built with resisting weather in mind, as age takes its toll, it is expected that homeowners will have to make updates to keep it resistant. Severe weather can lead to serious damage to a defenseless home, and with around half of insurance claims being a result of weather, it is something that is wise to take seriously.

Fortunately, taking measures to increase your home’s weatherproofing is something that most people can do themselves as a weekend project that does not require a significant cost investment. Here are our top weatherproofing tips to keep your home protected:

Preparing for Unpredictable Spring Weather | SERVPRO® of Garden Grove East/Anaheim Central

3/26/2020 (Permalink)

Lightning and thunderstorms may cause damage to your property but know that SERVPRO of Garden Grove East/Anaheim Central is always here to help!

Spring is upon us! While spring brings us more opportunities to enjoy warmer weather, we must also prepare ourselves and buckle up for a bumpy ride from Mother Nature.

A Quick Guide to Fire Preparedness for Business Owners | SERVPRO® of Garden Grove East/Anaheim Central

3/26/2020 (Permalink)

Fire Preparedness Tips for Business Owners. Are you employees prepared?

Business owners are in charge of a variety of things to keep their business operational, but one important thing that is often forgotten is making a fire preparedness plan. A fire can have a serious impact on a business, but those which are prepared often have a much easier time recovering and reopening their business’ doors.

When it comes to putting preparedness plans in place, the time required is relatively small and is well worth the investment. Understanding commercial fire codes, your own specific risks and how to keep yourself safe are a great start to fire safety for your business.

Fire Preparedness Tips for Business Owners

Follow code guidelines and inspection schedules. Checking the commercial fire safety codes by the National Fire Protection Association are a great way to kick off your fire preparedness efforts. Making sure you are following their guidelines, checking your equipment on schedule and keeping your fire exits clear are the first steps to a sound fire safety plan.

Identify your specific risks. There are seemingly countless reasons a fire could start in a business, but knowing where your weaknesses lie is an essential part of planning ahead. Think of things specific to your business that may put you at higher fire risk, such as equipment or chemicals that are kept on-site. Identifying these things ahead of time allows you to be extra vigilant for the future.

Create (and practice) a fire evacuation plan. If you employ workers on location at your business, getting them involved in the fire preparedness plans is essential to keeping everyone safe. Draft several evacuation routes that employees can use, and be sure to rehearse it regularly so everyone knows exactly what to do in an emergency.

Have regular fire safety seminars with staff. Creating workplace-specific fire safety guidelines to review with your employees will make sure that everyone remembers fire safety tips as they go about their daily tasks. Be sure everyone knows how to locate the fire extinguishers, when to pull the fire alarm and any other relevant tips that might come in handy during a fire.

If your business has experienced a fire, we’re here ²⁴⁄₇ to respond and begin restoration. Call us today to learn how we can help you. We're local - in Anaheim, CA.

Here’s What Could Cause Water Damage in Your Home | SERVPRO® of Garden Grove East/Anaheim Central

3/26/2020 (Permalink)

Leading Causes of Water Damage.

Water damage can be caused by severe weather, which is what usually comes to mind for many. However, while storms and flooding can cause catastrophic water damage, they are often not the main culprits.

Instead, various items in your home can be responsible for many situations that result in water damage.

Damage Caused by Water

Water damage is something that many homeowners will face as it is the third most common reason a homeowner will file a claim on insurance. Claims filed between 2011 and 2015 had an average payout per claim of $8,861.

It is important to understand the difference between water damage and gradual damage, which can impact insurance claims. Gradual damage is damage that has been happening over time, such as plumbing issues in the walls causing damage to the walls, ceilings or floors, or water damage caused by cracks in the foundation. Unfortunately, gradual water damage is usually not covered by homeowners insurance, while storm-related water damage usually is.

The Usual Suspects

The Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS), has discovered that the leading causes of water damage are as follows:

• Plumbing supply system failures. This would involve frozen pipes that burst due to a buildup in water pressure caused by freezing water or when the supply system material fails and results in a leaking or burst pipe. Plumbing supply system failures are the leading source of residential water losses, according to IBHS, and claims average $5,092 per incident after the deductible. Homes 16 to 40 years of age make up a large group of supply system material failure claims.
• Plumbing drain system failures. These can occur if a sewer drain backs up and overflows into a home or from material performance failures. The IBHS study discovered that 52% of drain system can failures were caused by sewer backups and 37% were related to material performance issues. Moreover, they also found that the average drain system failure resulted in higher claims in southern region states as opposed to the northern region states.
• Toilet failures. Toilets come in second to plumbing supply system failures for residential water loss and these failures are caused by anything from faulty fill valves or clogged drain lines. Toilet failures that happen on the first floor of a home resulted in higher claims than those in basements or upper floors, according to IBHS.
• Water heater failures. If your water heater has reached or passed its life expectancy, the tank begins to deteriorate with rust and corrosion, which can cause leaking or bursting issues. IBHS found that 69% of all water heater failures resulted from a slow leak or sudden burst and, on average, claims were approximately $4,444 per incident following the deductible.
• Washing machine failures. These failures are typically caused by supply hose failures, machines overflowing and drain line failures. Washing machines are one of the top 10 sources of residential water losses. According to IBHS, supply hose failures accounted for over half of all washing machine-related water losses.If your home ever experiences any water damage, the professionals at SERVPRO® of Garden Grove East/Anaheim Central are available to help with cleanup and restoration and make it “Like it never even happened.” 

After Destructive Storms, Give Us a Call | SERVPRO® of Garden Grove East/Anaheim Central

3/26/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO® of Garden Grove East/Anaheim Central when destructive storms hit.

Though storms are quite common, it is important to never disregard the damage they can lead to. In 2018, homeowners experienced around $2 billion in property losses due to storm damage, and they are some of the most common occurrences that lead to insurance claims

Knowing what to do and who to call after storm damage can help you be more prepared and receive help more quickly. That is why we are here ²⁴⁄₇ to answer your call for storm restoration and will take care of your damage with efficiency and quality work.

Tips for Lessening Risk at Your Business

12/27/2019 (Permalink)

Being prepared for a disaster or an emergency can help protect your business!

While there are always aspects of owning a business that are risky, being able to plan for dangers and lessen our risk is an important part of being a business owner. One of the best ways to do this is by planning ahead for a natural disaster—because they are becoming more and more prevalent, knowing how to protect your business in an emergency scenario is wise.

Evacuation orders can come through at any time and there is often not enough notice to fully plan an escape. Therefore, creating a protocol in advance for what you will do during the moment of a disaster and how to get your business reopened in the aftermath can ensure you can get to safety quickly while still mitigating as much risk as possible.

Here are a few Natural Disaster Planning Tips for Business Owners

1. Double-Check Your Insurance
Every insurance policy is different, but in many cases, a single business policy is not enough. Catastrophic events such as natural disasters are often beyond the scope of coverage for insurance claims, requiring business owners to purchase extra commercial policies for their business to make sure they are protected.

2. Create Your Action Plan
An emergency action plan is the best way to get yourself and your employees to safety while still making smart business decisions. Making a physical plan that includes things like evacuation routes, local shelters, location of emergency supplies and the nearest medical facility will help you know exactly what to do when disaster strikes and tensions are high.

3. Rehearse Drills and Prepare Staff
Keeping employees in-the-know about disaster procedures will help everyone feel more protected should a disaster occur. Sharing the emergency action plan and regularly rehearsing it is the best way to make sure that everyone understands what the disaster protocol is and can follow procedures.

4. Choose a Restoration Company to Work With
In the aftermath of a natural disaster, recovering quickly is one of the most important things for businesses, as a lapse in operations can be devastating for financial security. For this reason, choosing your preferred restoration company well in advance is advised. By doing this, you can call immediately to have your restoration begun and work to reopen as quickly as possible.

If you need to pick a commercial restoration company that’s right for you, call us today! We can tell you all about what sets our process apart.

Preventing Winter Fires

12/16/2019 (Permalink)

While practicing prevention of house fires is helpful at any time of year, winter is when homeowners should be most vigilant due to the high rate of fires that occur during the season. The uptick in winter fires is due to several factors, which is the reason we have put together a guide to help you be more educated.

The Most Common Causes of Winter Fires

An Increase in Cooking
The No. 1 cause of house fires at any time of year is always cooking, and even their rates increase in the winter. Because people are cooking holiday meals, baking more and are likely cooking uncommonly used recipes more often in the winter, it can create the perfect environment for cooking fires to start.

The Risk of Heaters
Heating your home safely is an important part of winter fire prevention, as heating is the second-most common cause of winter house fires. Because the safety measures on fireplaces and space heaters are not always adhered to, the margin for error is high when it comes to keeping warm.

Candles and Decorations
Both decorative and celebratory candles are used more often in the winter, and because an open flame always creates an increased risk, this can lead to more frequent winter fires. Additionally, holiday decorations can often pose fire risks due to faulty electrical wiring and the materials they are made out of.

The Best Ways to Prevent Winter Fires

Preventing fires is a wise practice year-round, but the high winter rates make it especially important. By keeping these winter fire prevention tips in mind, you can keep yourself and those around you safe and help to reduce the statistics surrounding winter fires.

• Check smoke alarms once every 30 days and replace every 10 years.
• Always monitor open flames.
• Select space heaters with automatic shut-offs in case they tip over.
• Utilize a screen every time you use a fireplace.
• Draft and practice an emergency escape plan with your household.

If your home has been impacted by damage fire, call us right away. We are leaders in restoration and can help you recover quickly after a fire occurs.

The Experts In Water Damage

12/5/2019 (Permalink)

Water is necessary for life, this we know, but one way it is not needed is when it causes damage to your property. Are you familiar with the many sources of water damage that could impact your home?

How It Happens

The Travelers Companies Inc. reported that between 2009 and 2015, five of the main reasons for homeowner claims were exterior wind damage, non-weather-related water damage, hail, weather-related water damage and theft.

Water damage pops up on this list two times, proving that it should be not be ignored. The list indicates that water damage can be a result of weather situations or non-weather situations.

Non-weather-related water damage is a common occurrence in the home and is a direct result of plumbing and appliance malfunction situations. Water damage from weather situations can be just as trying but does is not often a common occurrence. Weather-related water damage is damage from rain, snow or melting ice.

In your home, the top five causes of water damage are:

• Issues caused by malfunctioning plumbing
• Leaks from washing machines
• Damaged water pipes
• Water heaters that are beyond their age
• Weather situations

The major reasons for water damage in the home are plumbing issues, appliance leaks, water pipe breakdowns, old water heaters and weather.

Preventing Water Damage

While water damage costs can be expensive, they could be even more pricey if they are not covered by homeowners insurance. Familiarize yourself with your homeowner policy coverages. Most of the time covered damages in a standard policy are:

• Winter weather damage
• Overflowing water issues, including accidental
• A leaking hot water heating system
• Frozen/bursting pipes

There are ways to keep water damage from occurring, thereby saving yourself some headaches in the future. Here are some ideas for preventive maintenance to aid in the protection of your home from the damage caused by water:

• Hire a plumber to install back flow valves and standpipes in basement drains.
• Raise your appliances and personal items up off the basement floor.
• Clean all gutters and downspouts.
• Never place grease down the kitchen drain.

When you follow these suggested tips, you just might reduce the possibility for any water damage incidents in your home.

Water damage can be a nightmare to deal with, but fortunately, you will always have SERVPRO of Anaheim Central/ Garden Grove East on your side to help with the cleanup and restoration process.

A Home Fire Prevention Guide

12/5/2019 (Permalink)

Protect you family and home from fire disasters.

Any homeowner knows that there are many natural disasters and other occurrences that can cause damage to the house. However, few of these instances are more damaging and deadly than home fires.

While everyone hopes they will never have to experience a house fire, it is important to be proactive about prevention to lessen the likelihood.

A Look at House Fire Statistics

Reported at the rate of nearly three times per minute, home fires are one of the most common disasters that occur.

Cooking still retains the No. 1 spot for causing house fires, but of course it is not the only thing that can cause a fire in the home.

A Look at House Fire Prevention Tips

Part of what makes house fires so dangerous is that once a flame starts, it can so easily spread. That is why being a proactive fire preventer is the most effective way to prevent your home from getting caught in a blaze. Here are some house fire prevention methods:

Regularly perform smoke alarm checks. Most smoke alarms are equipped with a test button that allows you to check the batteries once a month. In 10-year intervals, it is recommended to replace the entire smoke alarm.

Make cleaning dryer lint a habit. As the heat of the dryer dries out lint in the collection tray, a perfect situation for combustion is created. After each load, clean out the tray to prevent it from catching fire.

Keep watch when flames are around. It is not uncommon to interact with open flames every day, whether through cooking, candles or heating. However, it is advised to never leave the room while a flame is burning.

Replace frayed wires regularly. Wires that are bent, twisted or squashed can quickly become a fire hazard as they grown worn and frayed. If continuing to route electricity, this can lead to a fire.

Protect aerosol cans. Aerosol cans are highly pressurized and highly flammable. Keep them away from heat sources or direct sunlight to avoid combustion.

If your home has suffered from fire damage, give us a call. We are certified in fire and soot remediation, and we are here to help ²⁴⁄₇.

Picking a Restoration Company to Work With

12/5/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Garden Grove East/Anaheim Central, always ready for any disaster.

Any homeowner knows that there are many natural disasters and other occurrences that can cause damage to the house. However, few of these instances are more damaging and deadly than home fires.

While everyone hopes they will never have to experience a house fire, it is important to be proactive about prevention to lessen the likelihood.

A Look at House Fire Statistics

Reported at the rate of nearly three times per minute, home fires are one of the most common disasters that occur.

Cooking still retains the No. 1 spot for causing house fires, but of course it is not the only thing that can cause a fire in the home.

A Look at House Fire Prevention Tips

Part of what makes house fires so dangerous is that once a flame starts, it can so easily spread. That is why being a proactive fire preventer is the most effective way to prevent your home from getting caught in a blaze. Here are some house fire prevention methods:

Regularly perform smoke alarm checks. Most smoke alarms are equipped with a test button that allows you to check the batteries once a month. In 10-year intervals, it is recommended to replace the entire smoke alarm.

Make cleaning dryer lint a habit. As the heat of the dryer dries out lint in the collection tray, a perfect situation for combustion is created. After each load, clean out the tray to prevent it from catching fire.

Keep watch when flames are around. It is not uncommon to interact with open flames every day, whether through cooking, candles or heating. However, it is advised to never leave the room while a flame is burning.

Replace frayed wires regularly. Wires that are bent, twisted or squashed can quickly become a fire hazard as they grown worn and frayed. If continuing to route electricity, this can lead to a fire.

Protect aerosol cans. Aerosol cans are highly pressurized and highly flammable. Keep them away from heat sources or direct sunlight to avoid combustion.

If your home has suffered damage from a house fire, give us a call. We are certified in fire and soot remediation, and here to help ²⁴⁄₇.

Must-Check Places for Water Damage

12/5/2019 (Permalink)

Catching Water Damage Early Can Prevent Secondary Damage Such as Mold.

Flooding is a familiar cause of water damage, but it is far from the only thing that can lead to it in a home. There are many areas that are susceptible to water damage, with some not being weather-related at all.

Besides the inconvenience of it all, having water damage can also mean surprise expenses. Many homeowners do not realize that their insurance will not cover water damage—and for policies that do, the a typical claim is around $7,000. For homeowners, knowing the must-check places for water damage can help them discover it before it becomes an even larger problem, saving time and money in repairs.

Must-Check Places for Water Damage

• Beneath the sink. Cabinets under a sink can serve to conceal slow drips, which can become big problems when left unattended.

• Within a tub casing. The casing around a tub is sealed to the wall, typically using caulk, which can become worn and let through leaks with time.

• Under drywall. Flooding from weather or burst pipes can often cause water damage to seep behind drywall, which can keep the actual damage from being exposed.

• Around roof vents. The seals around the vents that come out of the roof can weaken over time, allowing a slow seep of water into the wood below.

• Inside an AC unit. The condensation from an HVAC unit is plentiful, and typically it would be drained away. However, if a clog or backup occurs, this water will be dispensed within the unit instead.

• Below appliances. The cubbies of dishwashers are notorious for water damage because they are so sealed to inspection until the machine is removed.

• Under exterior faucets. The faucets on a home can begin to leak within the walls, which is often hidden by siding or masonry.

If your home has suffered water damage (even in a hidden place like one of these), we are happy to help! Give us a call right away, and we’ll get there quickly.

The Damages That Can Result From Flooding

12/5/2019 (Permalink)

Unsalvageable contents due to water damage in this home

While homeowners have to keep track of many things, planning for flooding is often overlooked. However, with the rate of flooding on the rise and its economic impact continuing to climb, understanding the impact flooding can have is one of the most responsible things you can do.

Though there are several types of floods and even more variances in the damages they can cause, we have established a guide to give at least a general overview so that homeowners know what to be on guard for.

Ways Flooding Can Impact a Home

Foundational Damage. Because soil can swell and shift when it becomes soaked from a flood, it can also cause a home’s foundation to become moved and uneven. This can lead to uneven floors or cracks in the foundation that must be repaired.

Drywall Damage and Mold. While drywall will often show clear indicators that it must be replaced (i.e. crumbling and cracks), this is not always the case. Sometimes drywall will be soaked and have no visible damage, but due to the dangers of mold growth, it will typically still need to be replaced.

Insulation Saturation. While some buildings are built with closed-cell insulators that are impervious to water damage, the majority of residential homes do not have this feature. Typical housing insulation can absorb a lot of moisture, rendering it dysfunctional.

Temporary Frame Swelling. The solid lumber that typically makes up a residential building frame is surprisingly resistant to flooding. While some swelling may occur initially, it will generally subside and the structure will maintain its structural soundness.

Appliance Ruining. The types of appliances that utilize heating or cooling contain insulation to do so, which can absorb moisture within the walls of the appliance. However, this is not a feature in every appliance, meaning some might be salvageable with an expert’s approval.

Furniture Damage. The water upholstery can absorb can lead to mold and health concerns, meaning couches and mattresses will often require replacement. The good news is that wooden furniture, metal furniture and objects made from glass will often remain usable after a thorough cleaning.

If your home has been affected by flood damage, we’ll be here to help you! Give us a call ²⁴⁄₇ to learn about our certified flood restoration process.

Ways to Protect Your Home From Water Damage

11/19/2019 (Permalink)

Be Prepared When Disaster Strikes.

Water damage is one of the most common and costliest disasters you may experience as a homeowner. From a burst pipe to a malfunctioning dishwasher or storm damage, there are countless ways water damage could strike your home.

While water damage is a common homeowner headache, there are plenty of things you can do to protect your home from some trying situations.

<h4your-home">Protecting Your Home

Not only will you find water damage a hassle to deal with, but the mold that can follow could have a long-term impact on your home. Mold will follow water damage and begins to grow and flourish within 48 hours of exposure to moisture.

When working on ways to safeguard your home from water damage, it is often helpful to break it down by areas of impact. These areas may include basements, kitchens, bathrooms, flooring and ceilings.

You can prevent water damage in the basement by preventing water seepage, which can be done by resealing vulnerable areas of the basement, making sure water drains away from your home and not toward your home’s foundation, and installing a backwater valve.

Many cases of water damage to your kitchen and bathrooms are due to plumbing issues and appliance failures.

Be sure that you regularly:

• Inspect all appliances, paying close attention to hoses and faucets
• Check the seal and caulking around your showers and tubs to make sure they are watertight
• Know the location of the main shut-off valve for water is in your home
• Don’t leave the house while the washer or dishwasher is running

Protecting the possessions in your home from water damage is not always possible, however, there are ways to store items that will at least decrease the amount of damage and loss. It is advisable to use waterproof bins to store items and keep items stored on shelves off of the floor—which is highly recommended when storing your possessions in the basement.

<h4from-water-damage">Recovering From Water Damage

You can stand a good chance at salvaging items that can be dried out within 48 hours if your home does experience a water damage situation.

Contact your insurance company immediately, evaluate the extent of the water damage in your home and identify the type of water that is involved.

Here are the three types of water to look for:

1. Water from rain, condensation or leaky pipes is considered “clean” water.

2. Slightly dirty water from dishwashers, washing machines, clean toilets, etc. is considered “gray” water.

3. Water from sewage or serious flooding from nearby rivers, etc. is considered “black” water. This type of water can have harmful health effects.

Following a water damage disaster, you will need to remove wet objects, get your home dried out, dehumidify the area and disinfect remaining materials.

Pro tip: By freezing wet books, photos and papers in a frost-free freezer, you prevent mold and mildew from forming on these items, giving you extra time to deal with them after you have taken care of drying out your home. Once you are able, you can remove them from the freezer and air-dry or fan-dry the pages.

It may seem like recovering from water damage is an overwhelming and slightly impossible task, but it doesn’t have to be. You can call on the highly trained experts at SERVPRO® of Garden Grove East/Anaheim Central, who are here to make it "Like it never even happened."

Fire Safety Tips You Can Use to Protect Your Business

11/19/2019 (Permalink)

When you own a business, there are many aspects to consider, some of those being safety factors regarding risks to your business, your staff and your visitors. One of those safety factors that you should spend some time planning for and working toward is fire prevention.

<h4causes-of-commercial-structure-fires">Top Causes of Commercial Structure Fires

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), the leading causes for structure fires in office properties from 2007–2011 were (in order):

1. Cooking equipment, 29% of fires
2. Electrical distribution and lighting equipment, 12% of fires
3. Heating equipment, 11% of fires
4. Intentional, 10% of fires
5. Smoking materials, 9% of fires
6. Exposure, 4% of fires
7. Electronic, office or entertainment equipment, 3% of fires

From that list of causes, intentional accounted for 20% of property damage, exposure accounted for 18%, and electrical distribution and lighting equipment accounted for 15%.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics found that in 2007, fires and explosions accounted for 3% of all workplace fatalities.

Further studies conducted by the NFPA estimate that for the period from 2007–2011, U.S. fire departments responded to an average of 3,340 fires in office properties per year, and those fires resulted in an annual average of four deaths, 44 injuries and $112 million in direct property damage.

<h4your-business">Protecting Your Business

There are certain steps to take to protect your business from the risk of fires. When you focus on fire risk assessment, fire prevention and staff education, you are working toward reducing the chance of a fire breaking out.

First, assess your risk for fire hazards. In some areas, a fire marshal is provided by the local government to help identify these risks and provide guidance on your fire prevention plan.

Make sure that the right fire protection equipment is in place on each floor. This includes an automatic sprinkler system, smoke detectors and fire extinguishers.

Most importantly, you must consider the safety of your employees. Create a fire plan and review it regularly with your staff, and then you’ll can be assured everyone will know what to do in the case of a fire. Plan to conduct fire drills at least once a year to keep fire safety procedures fresh in everyone’s minds, and take time to review evacuation plans and routes and the locations of the first-aid kits with your staff.

Despite best efforts with fire prevention and safety tips, the worst could always happen at your business. If a fire has damaged your business, SERVPRO® of Garden Grove East/Anaheim Central is available to help make it 'Like it never even happened."

When Response Time Matters, Choose Us

11/19/2019 (Permalink)

This floor is damaged by water but SERVPRO of Garden Grove East/Anaheim Central was able to cleanup the damage.

When disaster strikes your home or business, and it is your home or livelihood on the line, time becomes an especially precious commodity. You don’t have the benefit of waiting for help—you need it right away.

Since we understand that a fast response is crucial, responding faster to any size disaster is more than just a slogan for us.

Making Sure Your Business is Ready for Disaster Situations

11/4/2019 (Permalink)

Many things must be taken into consideration on a day-to-day basis when you are a business owner, but one of the most important factors to think about is emergency preparedness.

Even though having a plan in effect does not stop disasters from happening, it is still helpful from a safety standpoint in making sure that your employees know what to do if a disaster or emergency situation should occur.

You Need a Plan

It is highly suggested that you take the time to sit down and work out an emergency preparedness plan for various disaster situations. Make it your No.1 priority!

There are numerous emergencies your business should have a preparedness plan in place for, including:

• Fire
• Severe weather, including thunderstorms and winter storms
• Other natural hazards like floods, hurricanes, tornadoes and earthquakes
• Human-caused hazards, including accidents or acts of violence
• Technology-related issues like power outages and equipment failure

Whether your business experiences a man-made incident or one created by nature, you need to have an emergency preparedness plan because if there is no emergency plan for your business, things may go from bad to worse quickly.

Make it a point to ensure that safety training and familiarization of emergency preparedness plans are included in the company onboarding process, team-building activities and continuing education opportunities. By helping employees familiarize themselves with proper safety protocol and emergency procedures, you’re not only giving them the tools to protect themselves, but you are also setting them up to help protect guests/visitors and the business itself.

Begin Here

As you look to begin to set up an emergency plan for your business, you’ll first need to evaluate which scenarios are most likely to occur—and those that are a longshot but could still happen. After all, it’s better to prepare for all the worst-case scenarios and not be caught off guard.

There are plenty of online resources to help guide you through this process, including Ready.gov, the American Red Cross, FEMA and the CDC.

You should also consider having a business impact analysis (BIA) done to help in predicting the potential effect a disaster may have on your business. This would include lost or delayed sales and income, increased expenses from repairs, and delayed implementation of business plans. Don’t forget to make sure a crisis communications plan is in place, too.

Once you have that emergency preparedness plan, make sure to go over it and practice the plan with employees, as reviewing and rehearsing various scenarios will ensure the process remains fresh in their minds and can help employees feel more empowered.

Disaster can strike when you least expect it, but by being prepared and having a plan in place, your business will be better suited to handle whatever Mother Nature has in store. If the worst should happen and your business is damaged, know that SERVPRO® of Garden Grove East/Anaheim Central is here to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

How to Avoid Fire Hazards in the Kitchen

11/4/2019 (Permalink)

Having a plan in place and being prepared for any fire emergencies is the smartest thing you can do to protect your family and loved ones.

Who knew that the kitchen would become that wonderfully versatile place where family and friends gather to spend quality time while delicious meals are being cooked up? Unfortunately, however, the kitchen is also a space where many home fires occur.

Fires caused by cooking are listed as the No. 1 contributor of home fires and injuries. And the leading cause of these kitchen fires is unattended cooking.

In 2017, State Farm paid out over $130 million in homeowners insurance claims related to grease and other cooking fires. According to the insurance company, these are the worst states for kitchen fires:

• North Carolina
• Texas
• Pennsylvania
• California
• Ohio
• Illinois
• Maryland
• New York
• Alabama
• Georgia

Our "Restore First" Mentality Was Designed With You in Mind

11/4/2019 (Permalink)

When disaster strikes, we can get there faster, it’s a fact! However, that is just one of the reasons why you should give us a call when a fire occurs.

Need another reason? Let’s talk about our “restore first” mentality, which informs every step of our fire restoration process.

Flood Damage Protections for Your Household

11/4/2019 (Permalink)

As a homeowner, it is important to be aware of risks even if you think they are unlikely to happen to you.

Though your home may not be located on a low-lying plot of land, with 90% of natural disasters involving flooding, it is important to be aware of ways to protect your family and belongings should the waters begin to rise.

The Basics of Mold Remediation | SERVPRO® of Garden Grove East/Anaheim Central

3/1/2019 (Permalink)

When there has been water damage in a home or commercial property, there is a strong likelihood that mold growth will follow. It is a fact that mold can begin to grow within 48 hours of exposure to moisture.

If you are faced with a mold issue, knowing your next steps is vital, which is why we are using this blog to discuss the process of mold remediation.

An Introduction to Mold Remediation

Have you seen the ads for mold remediation and also the ads that promise mold removal? The latter of these two is a fallacy because removing all mold from a home or business is simply impossible. A qualified restoration company will focus on mold remediation, with the goal of getting mold levels back to a normal and natural range.

Yes, mold spores are naturally occurring everywhere, both indoors and outdoors. It is when they are left untreated that a minor problem turns into a major problem and a major headache.

Technicians will isolate the contaminated areas during mold remediation. Depending on the amount of remediation that needs to be done, this can be accomplished by either closing all doors and windows or effectively sealing off all doorways and openings with a polyethylene sheeting. Dust in the contaminated areas is then suppressed through misting.

Wet and mold-damaged materials will be removed and discarded in plastic bags. All exposed and mold-affected areas are then thoroughly cleaned and completely dried. A HEPA vacuum may be brought in during some cases to aid in the removal of contamination and debris.

The mold area will then be treated with a biocide and left overnight to destroy and kill the mold spores. On the following day, the mold remediation crew will return to encapsulate all of the affected areas.

What to Do If You Suspect Mold

If you are seeing evidence that your home or business may have a mold problem, you’ll want to act quickly. Evaluate the size of the problem, and if the affected area covers an area larger than 10 square feet, it is time to call in the professionals.

These professionals you contact should be highly trained and certified in the areas listed below:

• Applied microbial remediation
• Water damage restoration
• Applied structural drying

While some minor mold issues can be successfully resolved by home and business owners on their own, the safest way to handle mold remediation is always to call the professionals for the quickest resolution to the problem.

At SERVPRO® of Garden Grove East/Anaheim Central, our mold damage specialists are trained and certified experts in mold remediation. If your home or business is experiencing a mold issue, contact us to begin the mold remediation process.

An Introduction to the 3 Water Classifications | SERVPRO® of Garden Grove East/Anaheim Central

3/1/2019 (Permalink)

Understanding the difference between the types of water involved in water damage can help you better understand how to handle the situation. It is easy to think that all water causing damage is the same, but there are three different classifications of water involved: clean, gray and black.

No matter what type of water is involved in the damage, there is always going to be a cleanup and restoration process that follows. The first and most important step you must take is to remove all the moisture and damp items quickly, so that mold cannot begin to flourish in its ideal environment.

Clean Water

Much like the name says, this water is considered “clean” because it is free from contaminants and will not necessarily be the type to pose an immediate threat to your health. You will generally be dealing with clean water with the following:

• Broken water lines
• Malfunctioning appliances
• Toilet holding tanks
• Snow melt and rainwater

This is the easiest type of water damage to work with, as there will be fewer microbes living in the water, but after 48 hours and following contact with building surfaces, clean water then becomes a category two type of water, “gray” water.

Gray Water

In a gray water damage situation, cleanup and restoration can become a bit more tedious and serious. This is water that may pose a health risk, because it will contain some chemical or biological contamination. Because there is that slight contamination in gray water, it means that it would need to be thoroughly treated before being safe to consume.

Gray water can be a product of dishwashers, aquariums, showers, etc. The 48-hour exposure time applies here, as well, because if gray water is left untreated, it then becomes black water.

Black Water

Black water is the most serious of the three classifications, and the utmost precaution must be taken when dealing with it because it will be highly contaminated by harmful chemicals and biological matter.

This type of water includes floodwaters containing soil and all sewage waters. Sewage is filled with harmful microbes, including bacteria, protozoans, molds, fungi and more—many of these can be harmful to humans.

Some of the diseases that can be transmitted by black water are:

• Cholera
• Typhoid
• Hepatitis
• Gastroenteritis-type illnesses

The rule of thumb here is to remember that when it comes to floods, all water should be considered to be black water since it is picking up all kinds of contaminants along its path.

All of these classifications of water involved in water damage are recognized by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Remediation Certification (IICRC), an organization that certifies and sets the standards for the cleaning and restoration industries. Our technicians all study IICRC standards and best practices in water restoration and are available to help determine the steps to take to get your home back to normal.

It doesn’t matter what type of water has caused damage to your home or business, SERVPRO® of Garden Grove East/Anaheim Central is here to help get the situation under control and make it "Like it never even happened." Don’t hesitate to reach out to us if you need emergency cleanup and restoration services!

Ensuring Your Family Is Prepared for Severe Weather | SERVPRO® of Garden Grove East/Anaheim Central

3/1/2019 (Permalink)

Be prepared! There are steps you should take and safety tips to follow to ensure your family is prepared for various severe weather occurrences. Because even though we may have advance warning for approaching severe weather systems, we can still be caught off-guard at times.

Creating a Disaster Plan for Your Business | SERVPRO® of Garden Grove/East Anaheim Central

1/24/2019 (Permalink)

Creating a Disaster Plan for Your Business

Who but Mother Nature could throw everything from floods, hurricanes and tornadoes to wildfires and earthquakes at us, proving that nothing is safe from her wrath? Preparation for a multitude of destructive scenarios is the key to rolling with the punches, so to speak.

Being prepared for these situations involves creating a natural disaster plan for your business. This blog will lay out some aspects to consider when designing that very important disaster plan.

Where to Start With Your Disaster Plan

There are many things you will need to consider when developing a disaster plan for your business. Included in those considerations should be:

1. How to protect your employees
2. How to secure your assets
3. How to get business up and running again

Many checklists have been made available through sources like the Red Cross, FEMA and Ready.gov that can offer information that will help you identify areas that need to be included in your natural disaster preparedness plan. These sources will also help you see just how prepared you truly are.

Employee and Visitor Safety

Protecting employees and visitors should be top on your list when making a disaster plan. If a disaster were to strike without warning, that plan should address procedures and safety measures for employees and visitors to follow at a moment’s notice.

All evacuation routes and exits from your facility should be clearly marked. Set up an area that can serve as a shelter space, consider installing emergency lighting, and have volunteer staff designated as “safety wardens” properly trained and ready to guide and assist in all emergency efforts.

When picking out a shelter space, the ideal location would be a basement or storm cellar in the event of tornadoes or other high-wind situations. If there is no basement space, use a small interior room, closet or interior hallway on the lowest level of the building.

Ways to Protect Your Assets

If your business is located in a brick and mortar location, you will need to make mindful choices about how to protect the assets on the inside. If there is equipment or merchandise, there could be thousands of dollars at risk in the event of a natural disaster occurs.

Always have a comprehensive and up-to-date inventory of these items, and, if possible, take photographs prior to a disaster as this is always helpful if insurance claims will have to be made. If you keep your assets stored on a computer server, take the steps necessary to ensure that your backup system is doing regular backups and utilize a cloud storage system, which cannot be damaged.

If you own your building, you can talk with a contractor about areas that could use improvement and upgrading with regard to structural integrity. The contractor will show you possible areas that need safety upgrades and advise on any areas that may fail during certain weather situations.

Starting Business Back Up

It is entirely possible that when a natural disaster occurs, your business will be shut down and inoperable due to damage and you will lose profits every day you remain closed. Setting aside an emergency fund for these situations will help with any additional costs that are not covered by your insurance.

Putting together a list of contractors who will be available for construction repair work and knowing which cleanup and restoration service will be available to quickly respond to your emergency situation can give you peace of mind.

With SERVPRO® of Garden Grove/East Anaheim Central, you can count on us to get to the disaster faster and make it "Like it never even happened." Our training and expertise have prepared us to help with water damage, storm damage, fire damage and mold remediation quickly and effectively.

Knowing what to do when disaster strikes your business is of the utmost importance. When it comes to the cleanup and restoration aspects, depend on SERVPRO® of Garden Grove East/Anaheim Central to be there for you.

The Impacts Damaging Winds Can Have on Your Property

1/7/2019 (Permalink)

Severe storms bring a variety of concerns, with one being the threat of damaging winds. These winds can come with little to no notice and can be problematic due to long-term structural impacts.

Understanding Damaging Winds

Usually one thinks of tornadoes and hurricanes when they think of damaging winds. However, those are not the only times when they may come into play.

Damaging winds are considered those with wind speeds exceeding 50–60 mph and can be caused by a strong thunderstorm. The term “straight-line” winds is used when differentiating the damage from tornadoes.

Straight-line winds can cause other objects to become projectiles, leading to additional damage. Windows and roofs can take a devastating blow, and if it’s extensive enough, can result in water damage to the home as the outside elements come indoors through damaged windows and roofs.

Anyone living in a thunderstorm-prone area can be at risk from damaging winds, but some structures are more at risk than others. Mobile homes, even when anchored, can sustain extensive damage in wind gusts over 80 mph.

Tips to Help Protect Your Property From Wind Damage

Some ways you can keep your property from sustaining damage from these damaging winds are listed below. Keep the “Two R’s” in mind: reinforce and remove.

• Have your garage door professionally reinforced.

• Remove or anchor loose furniture and other items such as trash cans and grills on your property that could be tossed by the wind and become projectiles.

• Have large or dying trees and branches that could fall on your home be removed by a professional.

Not all high wind situations come with advanced warning. But by following some of the above precautions, you can be ready “just in case.”

Also, if you are building a new home or renovating an older home, be sure the windows, walls and doors are up to code for the weather in your area.

If you ever experience this kind of loss to your home due to damaging winds and resulting water damage, the highly trained specialists at SERVPRO® of Garden Grove East/Anaheim Central are always here to help with the cleanup and restoration of your home.

Watching for Fire Hazards in Your Home | SERVPRO® of Garden Grove East/Anaheim Central

11/9/2018 (Permalink)

We know the idea of your home being damaged by fire is an unpleasant one, but unfortunately for many Americans, it’s something that has become a harsh reality.

You can help protect your home and family by understanding fire hazards and learning how to identify them.

Smoking Is a Fire Hazard

Cooking is the leading cause of home fires, but smoking is the leading cause of home fire deaths.

An estimated 17,200 home structure fires were reported in 2014 due to smoking materials, which includes cigarettes, pipes and cigars. Those fires resulted in 570 deaths, 1,140 injuries and $426 million in property damage, per the Coalition for Fire-Safe Cigarettes.

It is safest to smoke outside, as most deaths result from fires that have started in living rooms, family rooms or bedrooms. Fire-safe cigarettes are the best option, and a deep, sturdy ashtray should be used.

Douse all cigarette butts and ashes in water or sand prior to throwing them out—and remember that one out of four fatal victims of smoking-material fires is not the smoker whose cigarette started the fire.

Exercise Caution With Candles

During a five-year period from 2011 to 2015, the National Fire Protection Association reported that fire departments in the United States responded to an estimated 8,700 home structure fires a year that were started by candles.

In total, there were 82 deaths, 800 injuries and $295 million in direct property damage. Candles caused 2 percent of reported home fires, with 3 percent resulting in death and 7 percent with injuries.

There were an average of 24 home candle fires reported per day during those five years, with December being the prime time of the year for home candle fires. Of the candle fires during this time span, 37 percent started in bedrooms and were responsible for 36 percent of the deaths and 51 percent of the injuries.

Tips for safely burning a candle:

• Keep it at least one foot away from anything flammable.
• Always use a sturdy holder that won’t easily tip over.
• Never burn a candle if oxygen is being used in the home.
• Always blow out all candles before leaving a room or going to sleep.

Fire Hazards That Could Be Hiding in Plain Sight

There are other lesser-known hazards that could be present in your home.

Did you know that some kinds of glassware in your home could be a fire risk? When sunlight passes through them, the concentrated ray could ignite flammable materials, which is why it’s best to move glass accessories away from windows.

Look out for loose outlets in your home. The movement of these electrical outlets could loosen the wires connected to the outlet and create dangerous arcing.

Dust bunnies can also pose a fire risk when collecting near electrical sockets and floor heaters. Sweeping or vacuuming your floors regularly and cleaning hard-to-reach areas like behind the entertainment system can help prevent buildup.

Fire and smoke damage can be devastating to homes, and in many circumstances, can be accompanied by water damage from firefighting efforts. If your home is damaged by fire or smoke, SERVPRO ® of Garden Grove East/Anaheim Central is here to help restore your home to pre-fire condition.

Anaheim 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

9/7/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Garden Grove East/Anaheim Central provides 24 hour fire and water damage restoration services in Anaheim, CA and surrounding cities

SERVPRO of Garden Grove East/Anaheim Central is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today - 714-748-7800

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Garden Grove East/Anaheim Central has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

• Your name and contact information
• Your insurance information (if applicable)
• The street address of the water-damaged home or business
• When did the flooding or water damage occur?
• What caused the water damage (if known)?
• Is there electricity available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO of Garden Grove East/Anaheim Central

SERVPRO of Garden Grove East/Anaheim Central specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

A Friendly Reminder For Fire Safety

9/5/2018 (Permalink)

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), U.S. Fire Departments responded to an average of 358,500 home structure fires per year during 2011 to 2015. The fires caused an estimated $6.7 Billion in direct damage. However, with friendly reminders such as this, these statistics have decreased per year between 2016 and present day.

Cooking is the leading cause of home fires and home injuries. Smoking has been the leading cause of home fire deaths for decades. Heating equipment was involved in one of every five home fire deaths. Smoke detectors provide an early warning of a fire, giving people additional time to escape. Interconnected smoke alarms throughout the home increase safety because when one sounds, it triggers them all. It is especially important to have interconnected alarms if you sleep with your door closed. Be sure to check the batteries in your smoke detectors. According to the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA), smoke detectors should be tested at least once a month and batteries should be replaced at least once or twice a year. 25% of fires were a result of dead batteries.

We at SERVPRO of Garden Grove East/Anaheim Central recommend developing and practicing a home fire escape plan. We can help you develop that plan with our Emergency Ready Program (ERP). Call us today to find out more. In the meantime, we hope you stay prepared, stay ready, and stay safe.

The Importance of Proper Ventilation in a Bathroom

9/4/2018 (Permalink)

Mold in a Poorly Ventilated Bathroom

Here’s a very common scenario.You step out of a nice hot shower and you have to wipe off your vanity wall mirror to see yourself because of all the steam that has built up in the room.. You chalk it up as a minor inconvenience. However consider this: if your bathroom mirror is fogging up, where is all the excess moisture from your shower also going? The answer is, that it accumulates behind the walls and tile as well as the tub or shower, with potentially bad results. Think mildew and mold, and while a lot of people really like all the steam that results from a hot shower, mold is an entirely different story. The good news is that you don’t have to give up hot showers or steamy filled bathrooms to protect your family from the health risks associated with mold. Instead, install adequate exhaust fans in your bathrooms and keep them running long enough to achieve proper ventilation. This is especially important for bathrooms with no windows. Also, make sure to leave any doors and windows open for additional ventilation.

Installing a bath exhaust fan is very beneficial in the case of allowing steam and humidity to escape. However, improper installation can lead to bigger problems than just some mold growth on the ceiling. Do not vent the bath exhaust directly into the attic hoping it will exit some other roof vent. Bath fan exhaust can and does cause massive mold blooms and wood rot in attic spaces. The fan exhaust must vent directly to the exterior of the home. People often notice water dripping from the fan cover and think they have a roof leak. More often than not, the issue is water flowing back down the pipe into the fan. This can result in mold growth on the backside of the ceiling which won’t be detected until it’s too late. The way to avoid this problem is to invest in a one-piece insulated flexible piping that prevents condensation and leaks. If you decide to use this option, be sure to consult a professional or bath fan manufacturer about the best way to connect this pipe to the fan and fittings.

In the case that mold does begin to grow or even consume your bathroom ceiling or attic, we at SERVPRO of Garden Grove East / Anaheim Central would be more than willing to eliminate the issue in your home using our mold remediation process. Give us a call today for a free inspection.

SERVPRO Assists With Local Fire!

8/29/2018 (Permalink)

Fire Damage affected this Anaheim Office. We were able to cleanup, restore all salvageable contents and get this business back up and running.

Dealing with fires in your home or place of business can be a very stressful time. Your property is unfortunately put into critical condition due to the smoke damage that takes place during the fire, the water damage from extinguishing the fire, and from the aftermath of everything sitting in smoke and soot filled rooms. Leave it to SERVPRO of Garden Grove East / Anaheim Central to come to your rescue.We had a customer from the city of Orange, who was a collector of memorabilia of both great emotional sentiment and monetary values. He and his family had accumulated beautiful and delicate items from all over the world throughout many years of traveling. These items ranged from very small glass figurines and trinkets to large wall mounted items to expensive paintings and furnishings. Unfortunately his small but quaint 2 bedroom apartment was ravaged with smoke from a fire that started in an oven in a neighbors unit just down the hall from his. All his belongings needed to be boxed and moved offsite, cleaned, re-boxed and stored until the cleaning and reconstruction of his place was completed. He was concerned about his valuables and the care they would encounter without any further damage taking place. Considering the contents of his home filled over 100 storage boxes, from small to large in sizes, everyone here at SERVPRO understood is was crunch time to wrap each item carefully in bubble wrap or packing paper, inventory and box each item, and have his place emptied quickly so that the demolition could begin.

Not only was our customer moved out before the deadline, he was able to rest assured that our team of professionals here at SERVPRO of Garden Grove East / Anaheim Central would be able to restore most of his items that were damaged by smoke and soot, back to their original preloss condition. The customer was especially pleased with how carefully his items were handled and how much SERVPRO treasured and cared for them just as he did.

We understand fire losses are stressful and extremely unfortunate, but know that you can always count on SERVPRO of Garden Grove East / Anaheim Central to be there for you every step of the way!

For more information regarding fire damage, call us today at (714) 748-7800 for a free inspection and estimate.

The Effects of Smoke Damage After a Fire

8/21/2018 (Permalink)

This door may have stopped the fire from entering this home in Anaheim, CA but it could not stop the smoke damage that it caused within the home.

When one thinks of fire season, the one thing that usually comes to mind is the hope that a wild fire doesn’t occur and affect any homes however, even if one of these devastating infernos doesn’t cause actual fire damage to your residence or commercial property, the chances of Smoke Damage occurring can be very high if the structure was exposed to the smoke. Just think of that smell that your clothes or hair bring home after a campfire. That same scent, yet more intensified can force its way in through your property’s vents, open windows/doors, and even your closed garage door. Once this occurs, your appliances, clothes, furniture, and the structure can be subject to smoke damage from soot (a black powdery or flaky substance consisting largely of amorphous carbon, produced by the incomplete burning of organic matter) on your walls, ceiling, etc. We can rid your home of these odors by using professional equipment, products, techniques, and procedures to eliminate and relieve your home of the odor, leaving your home freshly deodorized. The first 48 hours after fire damage can make the difference between restoring versus replacing your property and personal belongings. If you have been a victim of fire or smoke damage, don’t be discouraged; instead give SERVPRO of Garden Grove East/Anaheim Central a call. We’re always here to help!

Containment Isn't Just For Mold Remediation

7/27/2018 (Permalink)

Containment placed at a doorway to assist our crew with focusing only on the affected area that we are drying.

SERVPRO of Garden Grove East/Anaheim Central sometimes utilizes the use of containment to escalate drying. During Water Mitigation it is sometimes necessary to tear out saturated drywall instead drying it in place. This could be due to a few different factors. One factor might be that the saturated materials were damaged beyond restoration and could not be dried in place. Another factor may be due to insulation being present inside the walls which would delay drying. After performing the demolition of the saturated drywall we sometimes find that the wood studs are also saturated and need to be dried. If the affected room is too large, we know that it might take longer to dry those studs so it's sometimes necessary to setup containment in order to concentrate our drying efforts to one particular area of the room. Such as depicted in these photos. This technique assists us with speeding up the drying process and helping us achieve preloss conditions in your home or office quicker.

Being Thorough With Our Drying Process

7/27/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Garden Grove East/Anaheim Central would like to put your mind at ease when you have the unfortunate circumstances of having Water Damage in your residence or commercial property. You should know that we not only remove or dry down saturated materials such as carpet, pad or other types of flooring, but we inspect and monitor materials underneath as well. Those materials would include subfloor, flooring joists, and other structural materials. We monitor daily with our professional and accurate moisture meters. Monitoring Daily ensures that we follow the progress of the affected materials, therefore allowing us to know where to adjust our equipment to direct the airflow and get the materials dried to goal. We also communicate periodically with you and your insurance company to inform all parties of the progress being made.

Water Damaged Ceilings- Act Quickly!

4/16/2018 (Permalink)

Water Damage in Ceiling

Discovering water damage in your home or place of business is never good but knowing what to do when it happen is extremely helpful and can reduce the amount of the overall restoration cost. If you find that your ceiling is sagging and showing signs of water damage, the first and most important step to take is to remove all furniture and contents below the sagging or cracked ceiling. Make sure to protect flooring with rags or towels, place a bucket or pot to catch the dripping water, and then if you feel comfortable enough pop the sagging ceiling with a safety pin or thumbtack to help drain it, go ahead and do so, being very careful not to cause the bubble to burst. Next, try and locate the source of the problem. If you are able to at least eliminate possible causes, you can more easily pinpoint where the problem is actually coming from. The most common source when water damage is detected on ceilings are either broken pipes or roof leaks. If possible, turn off the water and call us immediately. It’s important to remember that in some cases, mold can grow in as fast as 48 to 72 hours, so being able to act quickly can help save money and prevent any possible further damage. If you do notice any water damage, remember to call your friends at SERVPRO of Garden Grove East/Anaheim Central at 714-748-7800 right away for a free inspection!

Water Damage - Do's and Don'ts

11/20/2017 (Permalink)

Water Damage - Do's and Don'ts

SERVPRO of Garden Grove East/Anaheim Central understands how nerve-wrecking it is to deal with water damage in your home. Here is a list of Do’s and Don’ts to help reduce damage and dry time and to increase your chances for a successful restoration experience. 

Do: Shut off the source of water if possible, or contact the third party who can stop the water source.

Don’t: Turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet or enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water.

Do: Remove as much excess water by mopping and blotting.

Don’t: Use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water, possibly causing electrical shock or damage to the vacuum cleaner.

Do: Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building, only when access to the power distribution panel is safe from electrical shock.

Don’t: Enter rooms with standing water where electrical shock hazards may exist, or if electrical outlets, switches, circuit breakers or electrical equipment are exposed to water.

Do: Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet floors.

Don’t: Leave books, magazines, or other colored items on wet carpets or floors to cause staining.

Do: Avoid all contact with sewage and items contaminated by sewage.

Don’t: Spread contaminated water by walking unnecessarily on damage or wet areas.

Do: Wash your hands thoroughly after contact with contaminated water.

Don’t: Turn on HVAC system or household fans if there is a possibility of spreading contaminated air.

With our Certified Crews available 24/7, you can always count on SERVPRO of Garden Grove East/Anaheim Central to be there for you! We're always here to help!

Salvaged Countertops

11/17/2017 (Permalink)

Salvaged Countertops

Here at SERVPRO of Garden Grove East/Anaheim Central, we care about your property. We understand how hard you work for the things that you own and cherish. Dealing with a Water, Mold, or Fire Emergency doesn't always mean that the materials affected will be unsalvageable.

We recently got called out to a job in Anaheim, CA where due to water damage and mold, the kitchen cabinets had to be replaced.  The homeowner had beautiful and expensive counter tops and was very upset to find out that, due to the mold, everything was being torn out. Thankfully, since the counter tops were not made of wood, and didn’t absorb any of the water, SERVPRO was able to salvage them and reuse them along with the new cabinets that were installed.

In the end, we not only made the homeowner happy about being able to keep his cabinets because of the emotional sentiment behind them, but we were able keep the overall cost of their claim down.

You can count on us to make the damage look “Like it never even happened.”

Restoring vs. Replacing

8/8/2017 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO of Garden Grove East/Anaheim Central, we care about your property. We understand how much it means to you and how emotionally attached we become to things. That is why we will always do all that we can to restore any items from becoming unsalvageable.

We recently got called out to a job where due to water damage and mold, the kitchen cabinets had to be replaced.  The homeowner had beautiful and expensive counter tops and was very upset to find out that, due to the mold, everything was being torn out. Thankfully, since the counter tops were not made of wood, and didn’t absorb any of the water, SERVPRO was able to clean them and reuse them on top of the new cabinets that were installed.

In the end, we not only made the homeowner happy about being able to keep his very expensive countertops because of the emotional sentiment behind them, but we were able to save him money by being able to save and restore his original counter tops.

For more information on water damage and restoration, contact SERVPRO of Garden Grove East/Anaheim Central  today for your free inspection and estimate! Count on us to make the damage look “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 714-748-7800!

With Rain Comes Water Damage

1/5/2017 (Permalink)

Heavy rains are no problem for SERVPRO!

With the recent rain storms here in Southern California, SERVPRO of Garden Grove East/Anaheim Central has seen more leaks and floods in homes with major water damage, that if addressed quicker, could have saved the homeowner precious time, money, and headaches. Knowing what to do as soon as the problem is detected can help tremendously by minimizing the problem. Removing as much excess water as possible by mopping or blotting can keep the water from migrating. It’s also important to keep in mind that mold can grow as fast as 48 to 72 hours, so making sure to act quickly can help save you from any possible further damage. We, at SERVPRO of Garden Grove East/Anaheim Central, understand how stressful it can be when water damage is discovered in your home. Contact us as soon as you notice water damage so that we may inspect and do what’s necessary to keep you, your family, and your belongings safe and sound by preventing any further water damage.

Got water damage? Remember to call your friends at SERVPRO of Garden Grove East/Anaheim Central at 714-748-7800 right away for a free inspection and estimate!

Be Extra Cautious of Fires During the Holidays

11/22/2016 (Permalink)

According to the American Red Cross, almost 47,000 fires occur during the winter holidays, costing over $554 million in property damage. We, at SERVPRO of Garden Grove East/ Anaheim Central, recommend that you and your families be extra cautious during this time. Place anything that can catch on fire far away from any candles, fireplaces, portable heaters, radiators, and heat vents. Never leave any holiday lights unattended and remember to unplug them before you go to bed or leave your home. If you plan on deep frying any turkeys, make sure that they are fully thawed and dried before placing them in oil. Always keep deep fryers away from home and 10 feet from any combustibles. It is crucial that you keep a fire extinguisher inside your home at all times and to regularly maintain any fire alarm systems. It’s always best to be prepared and proactive.

For more tips on fire prevention or information on fire damage, call SERVPRO of Garden Grove East/Anaheim Central today at 714-748-7800! With our certified crews available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, we are always here to help!

SERVPRO Saves Local Anaheim Elementary School From Water Damage After Heavy Rains

4/28/2016 (Permalink)

Commercial Equipment

Water Damage does not just affect residential homes. Quite often commercial properties are affected as well. Unfortunately, this time it affected a local elementary school in Anaheim, California.

While the school was under construction, there were unexpected heavy rains, which caused water damage to the structure in two separate buildings, including numerous classrooms. The contractor, who was in charge of the remodeling, was stumped on how to dry down the exterior cinder block walls, which had retained moisture for several months. They called us out to inspect and evaluate the situation. SERVPRO of Garden Grove East/Anaheim Central was onsite in no time to help assist the contractor.

Once our Production Manager, Marc Cheeley and our crew were able to meet with the contractor and their affiliates, he was able to impress them with his knowledge of advanced drying technics to remove moisture from dense, hard to dry materials. SERVPRO of Garden Grove East/Anaheim Central was immediately hired to assist with the Water Mitigation.

Due to the school being on a holiday break, SERVPRO of Garden Grove East/Anaheim Central worked side by side with the General Contractor and were able to perform the dry down process without disturbing any valuable school time. The School and the General Contractor were extremely happy with how fast and efficient the whole process went.