Archived Blog Posts
Tips to Cook Safely This Holiday Season
9/30/2021 (Permalink)
We're available around the clock because the leading cause of home fires is cooking.
We are entering into holiday season and that means family, food and a whole lot of time in the kitchen. Everyone loves to eat, including the SERVPRO of The Upper Peninsula team, but we are not here to talk to you about eating. We wish we were, but we are here to talk to you about being safe during the preparation process this year:
Prep Food Ahead of Time
The common theme to our tips today is going to be avoiding multitasking and focusing on the meal at hand. When you have two items on the stovetop, a turkey in the oven, and a home full of hungry guests, it can be hard to be careful in the kitchen. To avoid the dangers of multitasking, try making your holiday side dishes before the big day to avoid the madness.
Seek Help for Other Chores
Kitchen fires make up close to half of the house fires annually throughout America. Most kitchen fires are also started by unattended cooking. If you are trying to set the table, vacuum the living room and baste a turkey all at the same time, that could be extremely hazardous. Get your friends and family to help you out with other chores so you can stay focused in the kitchen.
Keep Others Out of the Kitchen
We know the kitchen is the hot spot for guests to gather, but you don’t want it to turn into a literal hot spot. Someone can knock a hot pan or pot off the stove and fires can start when things are getting knocked out of place. Try to enlist the help of one trusted sidekick and let everyone else enjoy their drinks and appetizers in a different room!
Beware All Towels
Whether it be paper or dish towels, you don’t want anything flammable near your stove. The heat or flame from your burners can get hotter or stronger with drips from your pan. There is no sense in risking it, so before you start cooking, locate these items and get them out of harm’s way.
Smoke and burn damage can be difficult to deal with if you don’t know the proper cleanup techniques. Luckily for you, the SERVPRO of The Upper Peninsula team is here to help with whatever you need. Fire, water and mold restoration is what we do and we will be there for you and your family whenever disaster strikes.
It's Time to Clean Out Your Gutters!
9/27/2021 (Permalink)
A common cause of roof and water damage in homes after a storm is malfunctioning gutters.
Fall is here, and with it, leaves, leaves and more leaves.
I’m sure that it goes without saying for most of you, however, I’m going to go ahead and remind you to clean out your gutters this fall.
I usually find myself doing this task twice- once at the beginning of the season to get all of the wet, decaying leaves and twigs that have accumulated all year out. Then, I go out a second time in November, after all of the leaves have fallen but before the snow falls, to do a clearing of all of the new leaves.
A common cause of roof and water damage in residential properties after a storm is malfunctioning gutters.
When your gutters are clogged, the water collects and spills out of the top in both directions. When it falls away from your house, it pools and causes problems at your foundation level, causing damage to your foundation and often flooding your basement. When it flows out onto your roof, it can create a leaking problem in your attic. Roof leaks often go unnoticed because most of us don’t make frequent visits into our attic spaces. But, eventually, the water will make its way into the insulation, walls and ceilings of your home. Roof leaks are also a common reason why attic mold grows.
Cleaning out your gutters lowers your risk of basement flooding and roof leaks.
However, if you do find yourself with a flood due to clogged gutters, don’t worry - we won’t judge! We understand that despite a homeowner’s best intentions, life gets busy and accidents happen! Give our office a call at (906) 204-2450 and schedule an appointment with our team to restore your home "Like it never even happened."
Halloween Safety Tips
9/21/2021 (Permalink)
The spookiest thing about Halloween is the hazards. Here's a list of safety measures you can take to make sure your Halloween celebration stays fun!
Halloween is near and you’ve prepared costumes, decorations, and special treats. But have you considered the accidents that can occur on Halloween? According to the US Fire Administration, for each year from 2014 to 2016, there were about 10,100 reported fires over a three-day period around Halloween in the US. Those fires caused an estimated 30 deaths, 125 injuries and $102 million in property loss.
As you can see, the spookiest thing about Halloween is the hazards, especially those related to fire. Here’s a list of safety measures you can take to make sure your Halloween celebration stays fun and memorable.
Halloween Fire Safety Tips
- Decoration placement — Don’t place decorations near candles and other heat sources, such as electric heaters or light bulbs. Also, place decorations far enough out of the way of trick-or-treaters, driveways, doorsteps, and walkways. Ensure exits are clear of decorations, so nothing blocks escape routes.
- Jack-o-lanterns — Use battery-operated lights or flashlights instead of candles in jack-o-lanterns. If you use real candles, be extremely cautious when handling the pumpkins. Keep them at a safe distance from flammable items.
- String lights — Indoors and outside, use only lights that have been tested for safety by a recognized testing laboratory. Also, check each set of lights, new or old, for broken or cracked sockets, frayed or bare wires, and loose connections. Discard damaged sets. And don’t overload extensions cords!
- Other lights — Use battery-operated candles as alternatives to wax candles or torch lights when decorating walkways and yards. They are much safer for trick-or-treaters, whose costumes may brush against the lighting.
- Costumes — When choosing a costume, stay away from long trailing fabric. If you are making your own costume, choose a material that won’t easily ignite if it comes into contact with heat or flame.
- “Stop, drop and roll” — Tell children to stay away from open flames. Have them practice the “stop, drop, and roll” technique in case their costume catches fire: stopping immediately, dropping to the ground, covering their face with their hands, and rolling over and over to put the flames out.
- When kids attend parties — If your children are going to Halloween parties at others’ homes, have them look for ways out of the home and plan how they would get out in an emergency.
Other Halloween Safety Tips
- Accompany your kids — Children under the age of 12 should be accompanied by a trusted adult when going out at night. Teens can be allowed to go in groups and trick-or-treat in well-lit areas.
- Know where your child is going — Be familiar with the route your kids will be taking and make sure they carry a mobile phone. Tell them to check in with you every hour and to come back home at a designated time.
- Costume props — Any props that a child might carry, such as a pitchfork, knife or scythe, should be flexible and safe enough to not cause an injury.
- Pets — If you choose to dress up your pet, make sure that the costume does not constrict the animal’s movement or annoy him in any other way. Additionally, keep candles, props, wires, and cords out of reach of your pets. Make sure jack-o-lanterns with candles can’t be knocked down by dogs or cats.
Tips to protect children from vehicles while trick-or-treating:
- Costume design — Choose a light-colored costume and attach reflective tape or stickers to make them more visible.
- Masks — Masks can obstruct a child’s vision, so consider replacing them with face paint or makeup. But if your child does wear a mask, make sure the eye holes are large enough so they can see out.
- Carrying lights — Children should carry flashlights or glow sticks to see and be seen during night time. Those can be a fun addition to their costumes, as well!
- Crossing streets — Tell them to walk and not run. Before crossing a street, they must use crosswalks whenever possible and look both ways.
- Driving — Adults should pay close attention when driving, and anticipate heavy pedestrian traffic, especially between 5:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m.; remind other drivers to watch out for trick-or-treaters, too.
Unfortunately, fire disasters can happen even to the most vigilant of people who follow these Halloween safety tips. If you require professional fire and smoke restoration services, contact your SERVPRO of The Upper Peninsula at (906) 204-2450. Be safe and have a Happy Halloween!
Tips to Keep Your Home Safe From Fire This Fall
9/3/2021 (Permalink)
If you experience any property damage due to a fire, we are here for you. Contact SERVPRO of The Upper Peninsula to learn more.
Are you ready for fall? Many people look forward to changing leaves, cooler days and fall sports like football. They also enjoy traditional fall activities like Halloween parties and visiting pumpkin patches or apple orchards.
But did you know that fall carries the highest risk for house fires to start? According to the American Red Cross, statistically most house fires happen in the fall and winter months.
Luckily there are steps you can take to lower your risk of a fire starting in your home. The first one is actually very simple. Just check the batteries in your home’s smoke detectors.
Working smoke detectors help keep your home and family safe. Experts recommend having a smoke detector in every bedroom.
If you have issues remembering when you need to change your smoke detector batteries, a good rule of thumb is to switch them every spring and fall when you change your clocks.
Don’t Forget Basic Fire Safety
Do you enjoy a big, happy bonfire with family and friends? If you do, you aren’t alone.
Bonfires are one of the most popular American fall activities. (And they’re a great way to make s’mores.) But if they aren’t properly attended, they can turn a fun night out into an accident waiting to happen.
Supervising a bonfire safely really comes down to keeping an eye on the fire. Don’t leave a fire burning by itself in your yard. If you’re done for the night, be sure to put out your bonfire so it doesn’t cause any unintended damage.
If there’s a fireplace in your home, then using it becomes more tempting on chilly fall nights. Before you light your first fire this fall, have a professional check out your chimney and fireplace to be sure it’s safe.
You don’t want to light a fire in a fireplace when the chimney is clogged or damaged. Having them check the condition of your home’s other heating units (like your furnace) can also help prevent fires caused by maintenance problems.
We’re Here if You Need Us
If an accident happens at your home this fall and you need help restoring fire or smoke damage, you don’t have to look far.
Our team is always ready to help you if a fire damages your home. Local experts can guide you through the fire restoration process and help get your home back in top shape.
Commercial Water Damage
8/3/2021 (Permalink)
Commercial Water Loss our SERVPRO Technicians responded to after hours this Spring. We responded fast & mitigated before farther damages occurred.
At SERVPRO of The Upper Peninsula, our team of highly trained technicians works proactively and accurately to restore any damages and protect families from potentially dangerous mold growth. Using our updated methods, SERVPRO of The Upper Peninsula's technicians first identify the extent of the problem and then work with care and sensitivity to rescue and restore the area to normal conditions. Our technicians are trained and ready to mitigate loss and meet every challenge with professionalism, reliability, compassion, and respect.
Commercial Building Water Loss
Any kind of commercial damage presents unique and different challenges than residential restoration. But Upper Peninsula residents are in luck! At SERVPRO of The Upper Peninsula there is no job too big for us! Regardless of how big the property may be or how large the scope of work is, we are the guys that can handle it properly and professionally.
Our Promise to The Upper Peninsula
Our commitment to excellence includes you, which means that you can expect effective and quick mitigation services. SERVPRO of The Upper Peninsula is open 24/7 to help the residents of The Upper Peninsula. Our certified technicians have handled jobs big and small, and we can handle your job no matter what. Just give SERVPRO of The Upper Peninsula a ring at any time, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week in Pure Michigan. 906-204-2450 is HERE TO HELP!
We Are Cleaning Experts
3/27/2020 (Permalink)
SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need
During this unprecedented time caused by the global pandemic of coronavirus, this is a reminder to our customers that we are specialists in cleaning services, and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards.
Specialized Training
We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform on a daily basis.
The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets and tables. Other spaces mentioned in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces include:
- Kitchen/Food Areas
- Bathrooms
- Schools/Classrooms
- Offices
- Retail Spaces
- Water Fountains
- Shelving/Racks
- Sales Counters
- Carpets and Rugs
- Stair Handrails
- Elevator Cars
- Playground Equipment
- Fitness Equipment
Specialized Products
The CDC recommends usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar pathogens to the coronavirus. Multiple products in the SERVPRO product line carry the EPA-approved emerging pathogens claims. While there is currently no product tested against this particular strain of the coronavirus, we are following all guidelines as provided by the CDC and local authorities.
Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning
If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today 906-458-9904
Spring Cleaning Tips & Tricks
3/27/2020 (Permalink)
While we are following CDC guidelines of social distancing and the Governor's "Stay Home, Stay Safe Order" now is a great time to get a head start on your spring cleaning! Spring Cleaning can be an enjoyable experience that will leave you with a sparkling and refreshed home.
Ready to give your home a top-to-bottom buffing? Try focusing on furnishings, appliances, and carpeting. Once you’ve covered these major tasks, you’ll have your home spring-cleaned in no time.
Make doormats welcoming
Shake 'em, wash 'em, swat 'em with a broom. Give them the toughest cleaning they can take. They’re your front line against tracked-in dirt—so keep them clean enough to function at peak efficiency.
Clean carpets and upholstery
Fabrics that have absorbed a winter’s worth of dirt, body oil, and germs will need a deep cleaning to get them ready for another year of wear—and for that close inspection by your relaxing guests. Move furniture just slightly—not out of the room or against the wall, as the old rules dictated—and place the legs of each piece back on top of small wax paper squares after shampooing. The wax paper will protect your carpet and keep the furniture legs from getting wet as the carpet dries. Open the windows to speed the drying process, which can take a day or more. If you’re not the furniture-shifting and machine-renting type, use a professional carpet and upholstery cleaner like SERVPRO.
Finish your floors
To protect the floors in your kitchen from another year of wear and tear, wax or apply a sealer following label directions. The simplest method: Use a combination wash-and-wax floor cleaner. No-wax floors don’t need a polishing treatment, but an occasional makeover will keep them looking fresher and add a protective buffer that could help them last longer. Use a floor cleaner that cleans, shines, or both. If you have wood floors, move furniture and rugs aside, then apply a wood cleaner and either liquid or paste polish to clean and add a new wax coating.
Wash walls, cabinets, baseboards, and woodwork
The walls may not look as if they need a bath—dust and soot fall to the floor, right? Most of it does, but just enough clings to vertical surfaces to warrant a seasonal or pre-holiday bath. Use a sponge and hand dishwashing detergent, washing the surface in sections. A sponge mop makes it easier to reach higher spots. Use two buckets: one for dishwashing detergent solution and another for wringing your sponge. Dry the walls and woodwork with a clean cloth.
Vacuum with intelligence
The old rules mandated that you go through the labor-intensive task of dragging every stick of furniture off the carpet, just so the vacuum cleaner could cover every nook and cranny. Instead, simply move those big items a little to the left or to the right. Vacuum the area previously occupied by the furniture and then move it back into place.
Clean ceiling fixtures
Remove dust and dirt from ceiling fans and air-conditioner vents with a cloth and a vacuum with a soft nozzle attachment.
Clean your light fixtures
A few minutes with a stepladder, all-purpose cleaner, a sponge, and a polish cloth will give new light to your life. If your home has skylights or tall ceilings, consider investing in a stepladder and extended-reach dust-and-dirt-removal tools, all of which are available at your local hardware store and at home supply stores.
Check your coils
You should clean the refrigerator’s condenser coil, usually found behind the toe grille, with a long-handled bottle brush and a vacuum cleaner with an attachment hose to remove dust and lint. Built-up dust can shut down the unit by causing it to overheat. To remove dust from coils attached to the hard-to-reach back side of the fridge, carefully pull the refrigerator out several feet (newer models roll on casters) and vacuum thoroughly; finish by sweeping or vacuuming the floor area you’ve revealed. Expect to rediscover coins, bottle caps, and twist ties that you and the cat knocked over the past year.
Need help getting your home "spring" clean? How about SERVPRO clean? Call SERVPRO of The Upper Peninsula at (906) 204-2450. Our team will gladly work with you to get your home fresh and clean for spring!
Winter Weather Preparedness
2/13/2020 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of The Upper Peninsula is prepared to help you weather the storm!
Are you fully prepared for winter? Here's a few additional tips to make sure your home or business is prepared to weather the winter storms in the Upper Peninsula.
- Winter weather preparedness:
- Go over how to ensure your home is insulated properly:
- Weather stripping on doors/windows, insulate walls, attics, pipes
- Plastic sheeting over windows that are drafty
- Emergency safety kits, in case of power outages – in your home & in your vehicle
- Stock up on food, water, gasoline for vehicles, shovels, weather appropriate clothing, blankets, salt/sand, etc.
- Keep your phones charged
- If power goes out close any curtains, blinds & doors to rooms that are not needing to be used to keep heat centralized. Cover windows to reduce a draft
- If you have a wood burning stove, ensure you have enough wood in case of multiple days of power outages. Also, make sure the flue is always open. Keep a carbon monoxide detector in the home to detect any possible gasses.
- During/after winter storms:
- Shovel during & after to ensure a safe entrance/exit in case of emergency
- Keep an eye on your piping, watch out for frozen pipes. Make sure your pipes are properly insulated!
- Switch your thermostat from auto to fan on, this makes your burners run less which results in a more constant circulation of heat throughout aka a more regulated temperature.
What To Know About Ice Dams
2/13/2020 (Permalink)
If you experience water damage caused by an ice dam, call our SERVPRO of The Upper Peninsula team.
For homeowners in the Upper Peninsula, winter can bring a number of problems, from burst pipes to leaky roofs. Another issue you may not be aware of is the formation of ice dams. While it may not seem like much of an issue on its own, it can cause extensive water damage to your house which can then create more problems. Here are a few things that you should know.
1. What Are They?
As you may be able to guess from its name, an ice dam is a formation that keeps water from properly moving from your roof. They occur when snow melts and then refreezes into harder ice. They often form on the edge of the roof which can make it difficult for water to drain properly but can also show up in other areas. When this happens, the trapped water can begin to back up and cause damage to the roof and ceiling underneath it.
2. How Do You Prevent Them?
These formations occur because of melting and refreezing snow, so one tip for ice dam prevention is to keep the temperature of your roof cold enough to prevent melting. This is most easily done by keeping the temperature in your attic low. Proper insulation can help as well. Another method of prevention is removing snow from your roof immediately after a storm.
3. How Can You Remove Them?
If you already have an ice dam on your roof, then you should remove it as quickly as possible to prevent it from causing any damage. One way to do this is by using an ice melt product. Hot water steaming can do the trick as well.
While a winter storm and cold weather can often create frustrating problems, you do not need to handle them all on your own. Our SERVPRO of The Upper Peninsula team is always here to help!
Don't be a turkey this Thanksgiving
10/28/2019 (Permalink)
We're available around the clock because the leading cause of home fires is cooking.
We're available 24/7/365 because the leading cause of home fires is cooking. (Not your cooking, of course)
With November upon us, the holidays will be here before we know it. While signature dishes are a staple at every families holiday gathering; we would like to take the time to address the dangers of deep frying a turkey.
With a minimal amount of preparation there are a few simple precautionary steps that you can take in order to keep your home and family safe while still impressing the socks off your in-laws.
Safety Tips for Deep Frying a Turkey
1.Be sure to place your turkey fryer on a solid, even ground a safe distance away from any flammable objects. They are known to tip easily; spilling hot cooking oil over a large area.
2.Be sure to take into consideration the size of the turkey when filling the cooking oil. An overfilled fryer will displace hot oil when the turkey is placed into the fryer.
3.Due to a change in temperature, a partially frozen turkey when being placed in the fryer will cause cooking oil to splatter, be sure to thaw properly.
4.Be sure to wear heat proof gloves when handling the pot, lid or turkey in any way as the fryer surfaces can become dangerously hot.
5.Without thermostat controls, deep fryers can easily overheat and start fires, even the slightest amount of cooking oil spilling on a hot burner can cause a very large fire.
6.Most importantly, always use turkey fryers indoors or on wooden surfaces.
If you decide to be a turkey and blatantly disregard these tips, you may end up causing damage to your property. If that's the case SERVPRO of The Upper Peninsula will be here to help. We would much rather have enjoying your dinner with your family and friends however. We hope you all have a SAFE and happy holiday season!
Avoid Bursting Pipes This Winter
10/28/2019 (Permalink)
This flooded basement was caused by a floor drain blockage.
SERVPRO of The Upper Peninsula is here to help in case of a pipe that bursts or lines that freeze. Our crews are ready 24/7! No matter how big or small our local SERVPRO team handles them all, give us a call at (906) 204-2450!
7 Helpful Tips to Avoid Bursting Pipes This Winter
Outdoor Tips:
- Wrap outside faucets.
- Caulk around pipes where they enter the house.
- Disconnect garden hoses.
- Drain in-ground sprinkler systems
Indoor Tips:
- Let a stream of water run if the temperature dips below freezing.
- Open cupboard doors in the kitchen and bathrooms.
- Shut off and drain your water system if you are leaving the house for several days.
Fire Hazards
10/28/2019 (Permalink)
Do not plug small space heaters into power strips.
SERVPRO of the Upper Peninsula would like to inform everyone of the dangers of using power strips. Power strips have become a necessity in the world we live in. Everything runs on electricity and we just plug it in and let it go never realizing how many amps or load that the power strip can handle.
With cooler temperatures expected, some may want to use their small space heaters. If so, DO NOT plug them into a power strip. These devises are not designed to handle the energy load of a space heater and can overheat causing a fire hazard.
We want you to stay warm and stay safe this winter. But, if damage strikes your home we are here to help make it "Like it never even happened." Call SERVPRO of The Upper Peninsula (906) 204-2450 where a team of professionals will help your house feel like home again.
We Specialize in Flooded Basement Cleanup!
10/28/2019 (Permalink)
Have Questions about Basement Flooding?
Call Today-SERVPRO of The Upper Peninsula (906) 204-2450
A basement can flood at any time, although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall. Basements are inherently prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of a building and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level. There are a number of reasons why your Upper Peninsula basement could flood, including:
- A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe
- Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home
- Storm sewer backup
- Sanitary sewer backup
- Foundation drainage failure
- Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure
- And many more
Have Questions about Basement Flooding?
Call Today-SERVPRO of The Upper Peninsula (906) 204-2450
If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can jeopardize your health and safety, and cause severe damage to your home's structure. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.
The bottom line: a flooded basement can jeopardize your health, safety, and your home's integrity. It's worth making a call to SERVPRO of The Upper Peninsula and let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. WE have earned the trust of hundreds of homeowners, business owners, and property professionals.
We are Flooded Basement Specialists:
- We are available 24/7
- We're a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies
- We bill the Insurance directly-One less thing for you to worry about
- Our technicians are highly-trained in Water Restoration Techniques
- We use s500 IICRC Restoration standards
- Advanced inspection and extraction Equipment
Basement Flooded? Call us Today-We're Ready to Help
SERVPRO of The Upper Peninsula (906) 204-2450
What to do when your basement floods
10/28/2019 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of The Upper Peninsula is here to help families with flooded basements all around the Upper Peninsula.
When a basement floods it is a stressful, confusing event which can take a lot of time, money and effort to bring your home back to where it was before the water damage. Whether the damage is caused by a broken water pipe, heavy rains, snow melt, a failed sump pump or swelling of ground water complicate things further as they all require different approaches to make it "Like it never even happened."
Fortunately here at SERVPRO of The Upper Peninsula we have been able to help families with flooded basements all around the Upper Peninsula and are ready to help you. In this blog we will seek to give you general advice for handling flooded basements but do remember our emergency line is open 24/7 and we are here to help you with specific advice for your flooded basement.
Safety for you and your family should be your first concern when you find out your basement has flooded. There are two main safety concerns in every water intrusion situation Electrical and Tripping hazards are the most prevalent source of injury in our industry.
- Never go into a flood damaged basement with standing water which has submerged outlets or other active sources of electricity. Wait for the water to be pumped out by a professional, such as SERVPRO, if you can’t safety do that yourself.
- Most home electronic systems and devices can be damaged from being submerged or exposed to water. Don’t us devices or outlets that have been exposed to water even after the water has been pumped out.
- It is not just the water but also the particulates in the water which will stay behind even after the water has been removed that can damage electrical systems and equipment.
- Not everything breaks immediately it can take time after electrical system is exposed to water before it breaks or becomes unsafe.
- Pay attention to where you are walking, many restoration professionals have hurt themselves walking across different materials (such as carpet to tile) because they didn’t expect the different in friction when these materials are wet.
- If you are removing any materials from your basement remember that wet materials can be VERY heavy.
- Keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging
When you have accounted for safety you can move on to being proactive about your home and belongings before our restoration technicians get there. Every minute counts which is why we respond 24/7 to emergencies and why anything you do until we get there can help protect your home.
- If possible find the source of water intrusion and stop the flow of water into your property. Check your sump pump to make sure it is working. They sometimes get unplugged or the arm gets stuck. If a pipe is broken shut off your water valve to your home.
- Remove as much water as you can. Using a shop vac, mopping or blotting possible. The less water which is allowed to soak into your furniture, walls and carpet the better off you will be.
- Move furniture off of wet carpet and wipe the legs or bottoms before placing in an unaffected area. Wet furniture, especially wood and metal, can stain carpet very quickly.
- If you cannot remove furniture from an affected area you can place foil or woodblocks between furniture legs and the carpet to prevent staining.
- Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting so their coloring doesn’t bleed onto the carpet.
- Turn on air conditioning for maximum drying in the summer.
Remember that our emergency line (906) 204-2450 is always answered by one of the restoration professionals here at SERVPRO of The Upper Peninsula, so we can give you advice specific to your situation. We are always Here to Help.
Tips to Cook Safely This Holiday Season
10/28/2019 (Permalink)
We're available 24/7/365 because the leading cause of home fires is cooking. Not your cooking, of course.
We are entering into holiday season and that means family, food and a whole lot of time in the kitchen. Everyone loves to eat, including the SERVPRO of The Upper Peninsula team, but we are not here to talk to you about eating. We wish we were, but we are here to talk to you about being safe during the preparation process this year:
Prep Food Ahead of Time
The common theme to our tips today is going to be avoiding multitasking and focusing on the meal at hand. When you have two items on the stovetop, a turkey in the oven, and a home full of hungry guests, it can be hard to be careful in the kitchen. To avoid the dangers of multitasking, try making your holiday side dishes before the big day to avoid the madness.
Seek Help for Other Chores
Kitchen fires make up close to half of the house fires annually throughout America. Most kitchen fires are also started by unattended cooking. If you are trying to set the table, vacuum the living room and baste a turkey all at the same time, that could be extremely hazardous. Get your friends and family to help you out with other chores so you can stay focused in the kitchen.
Keep Others Out of the Kitchen
We know the kitchen is the hot spot for guests to gather, but you don’t want it to turn into a literal hot spot. Someone can knock a hot pan or pot off the stove and fires can start when things are getting knocked out of place. Try to enlist the help of one trusted sidekick and let everyone else enjoy their drinks and appetizers in a different room!
Beware All Towels
Whether it be paper or dish towels, you don’t want anything flammable near your stove. The heat or flame from your burners can get hotter or stronger with drips from your pan. There is no sense in risking it, so before you start cooking, locate these items and get them out of harm’s way.
Smoke and burn damage can be difficult to deal with if you don’t know the proper cleanup techniques. Luckily for you, the SERVPRO of The Upper Peninsula team is here to help with whatever you need. Fire, water and mold restoration is what we do and we will be there for you and your family whenever disaster strikes.
SERVPRO of The Upper Peninsula provides 24 hour fire and water damage restoration service in The Upper Peninsula.
4/1/2019 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of The Upper Peninsula 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 - (906) 204-2450
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 The Upper Peninsula 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 The Upper Peninsula
SERVPRO of The Upper Peninsula 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.
Fire Hazards!
12/3/2018 (Permalink)
Power Strips are not designed to handle the energy load of a space heater and can overheat causing a fire hazard.
With cooler temperatures expected, some may want to use their small space heaters. If so, DO NOT plug them into a power strip. These devises are not designed to handle the energy load of a space heater and can overheat causing a fire hazard.
We want you to stay warm and stay safe this winter. But, if damage strikes your home we are here to help make it "Like it never even happened." Call SERVPRO of The Upper Peninsula (906) 204-2450 where a team of professionals will help your house feel like home again.
Prevent Frozen Pipes This Winter!
11/13/2018 (Permalink)
The Upper Peninsula facing months of cold weather, which means months of potential dangers to your home. Winter’s heavy precipitation, freezing temperatures, and high winds can cause a great deal of damage, but the most costly and time-consuming winter home damage often comes from burst pipes. Luckily, taking a few small steps to ‘winterize’ your property can prevent future problems. Until spring, follow these simple tips:
- Keep cabinet doors open during the coldest days of the month to circulate warm air around the pipes. Of course, be sure to move any harmful cleaners and household chemicals to a secure spot out of the reach of children.
- Leave water on at a very slow trickle through faucets, especially from pipes lacking heat or insulation. The slow flow can often prevent water from freezing in place in the pipe.
- If you have outdoor faucets, consider turning them off. Shutting off the valve in the basement, or crawl space, will prevent water from freezing in outdoor exposed pipes. Make sure to completely drain outdoor faucets, as well.
- If you leave for vacation, set the temperature in your home no lower than 55° F. Leaving the heat on ensures that all pipes will remain warm during your time away.
- If there are water lines in the garage, keep the garage door shut! Open garage doors allow drafts to potentially freeze exposed pipes.
In the coldest days of winter, be sure to regularly check your water pipes and faucets. The earlier water damage is discovered, the easier it is to clean and contain—water leaks left unchecked for as little as 48 hours can easily result in mold growth.
If you have water damage, call SERVPRO of The Upper Peninsula at (906) 204-2450 to schedule an assessment and cleanup. Your SERVPRO of The Upper Peninsula professionals have the training, certifications, and equipment to mitigate quickly and prevent secondary damage.
Asbestos Testing is Mandatory
11/7/2018 (Permalink)
Thankfully asbestos used in construction and manufacturing for the most part, is a material of the past. However many buildings today still retain traces or even large quantities of asbestos. Particularly in older buildings, testing for and identifying this asbestos is an important job, but one that is unfortunately neglected by many business owners. Failing to test for asbestos when making renovations or restorations to a building can cause long-term negative health effects for restoration professionals, customers, and even yourself, creating a legal and financial disaster large enough to ruin most businesses. There are specific Federal regulations mandated by the EPA regarding renovating buildings, and asbestos abatement.
SERVPRO of The Upper Peninsula completes certified asbestos testing to ensure the safety of our technicians and your customers alike.
Asbestos testing for a business is not only advisable for practical reasons, but also for legal ones. Failing to test for asbestos can lead to steep fines and regulatory penalties, regardless of whether or not the substance is present. OSHA has explicit guidelines in place regarding demolition or renovations of commercial structures, especially schools, and other municipal buildings. Furthermore, if a customer or employee gets sick as a result of untested asbestos, you may be at risk of a costly and difficult lawsuit. Federal and state authorities alike take this process seriously, which is why it is always recommended to hire a certified company like SERVPRO to complete the task.
Health Reasons
In addition to laws on the subject, testing for asbestos should be a major consideration for your health. Asbestos can cause many negative health effects, some of which can shorten your lifespan or lead to long-term illness. Asbestos is a known carcinogen.The longer you are exposed to it, the more likely many of these side effects are to manifest, meaning that valued employees and regular customers may also be at risk. Just as the removal of mold growth can help to avoid a medical emergency in your business, so too can asbestos testing prevent a host of serious medical issues.
Avoid Bursting Pipes This Winter
11/5/2018 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of The Upper Peninsula is here to help in case of a pipe that bursts or liens that freeze.
SERVPRO of The Upper Peninsula is here to help in case of a pipe that bursts or lines that freeze. Our crews are ready 24/7! No matter how big or small our local SERVPRO team handles them all, give us a call at (906) 204-2450!
7 Helpful Tips to Avoid Bursting Pipes This Winter
Outdoor Tips:
- Wrap outside faucets.
- Caulk around pipes where they enter the house.
- Disconnect garden hoses.
- Drain in-ground sprinkler systems
Indoor Tips:
- Let a stream of water run if the temperature dips below freezing.
- Open cupboard doors in the kitchen and bathrooms.
- Shut off and drain your water system if you are leaving the house for several days.
October is Pink!
10/26/2018 (Permalink)
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month!
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. About 266,120 new cases of breast cancer is diagnosed every year, and about 40,920 women will die from breast cancer in that same year. If you would like to learn more on the disease or donate/fund-raise head over to The Breast Cancer Awareness Foundation website. The Breast Cancer Research Foundation is a nonprofit organization committed to achieving prevention and a cure for breast cancer. They provide critical funding for cancer research worldwide to fuel advances in tumor biology, genetics, prevention, treatment, metastasis and survivor-ship.
Don't Be a Turkey This Thanksgiving!
10/26/2018 (Permalink)
We're available 24/7/365 because the leading cause of home fires is cooking. (Not your cooking, of course)
We're available 24/7/365 because the leading cause of home fires is cooking. (Not your cooking, of course)
With November upon us, the holidays will be here before we know it. While signature dishes are a staple at every families holiday gathering; we would like to take the time to address the dangers of deep frying a turkey.
With a minimal amount of preparation there are a few simple precautionary steps that you can take in order to keep your home and family safe while still impressing the socks off your in-laws.
Safety Tips for Deep Frying a Turkey
1.Be sure to place your turkey fryer on a solid, even ground a safe distance away from any flammable objects. They are known to tip easily; spilling hot cooking oil over a large area.
2.Be sure to take into consideration the size of the turkey when filling the cooking oil. An overfilled fryer will displace hot oil when the turkey is placed into the fryer.
3.Due to a change in temperature, a partially frozen turkey when being placed in the fryer will cause cooking oil to splatter, be sure to thaw properly.
4.Be sure to wear heat proof gloves when handling the pot, lid or turkey in any way as the fryer surfaces can become dangerously hot.
5.Without thermostat controls, deep fryers can easily overheat and start fires, even the slightest amount of cooking oil spilling on a hot burner can cause a very large fire.
6.Most importantly, always use turkey fryers indoors or on wooden surfaces.
If you decide to be a turkey and blatantly disregard these tips, you may end up causing damage to your property. If that's the case SERVPRO of The Upper Peninsula will be here to help. We would much rather have enjoying your dinner with your family and friends however. We hope you all have a SAFE and happy holiday season!
Thank You U.P. Firefighters!
10/5/2018 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of The Upper Peninsula would like to thank all of the firefighters in our area for your incredible service to the community. As a fire damage restoration company, the jobs of the local fire departments are integral to our day-to-day actions, as the volunteers and staff members fight dangerous fires to recover property that SERVPRO can restore.
More importantly, however, thank you for the work you do daily to keep us and the members of our community safe and protected from fire emergencies. We at SERVPRO of The Upper Peninsula would like to sincerely thank you for all that you do! To help with fire prevention efforts, we are donating coloring books to local fire departments to assist in their educational efforts at local schools next week for fire prevention week! We're also dropping off snacks to keep our local heroes fueled for the tough work they do!
It's not enough, but it's a start towards thanking you for all that you do!
Fire Prevention Week October 7-13, 2018
10/5/2018 (Permalink)
This year's theme for Fire Prevention Week is "Look. Listen. Learn. Be aware-fire can happen anywhere."
"LOOK" for places fire could start. Take a good look around your home and identify potential fire hazards and take care of them.
"LISTEN" for the sound of your smoke alarms. You could have only minutes to escape safely once the smoke alarm goes off. Go to your outside meeting place which should be a safe distance from your home and where everyone should meet.
"LEARN" two ways out of every room and make sure all doors and windows leading outside can be easily opened and are clutter free.
People need to be educated about these three basic but essential steps to reduce the likelihood of having a fire and how to escape safely in the event a fire should a occur.
For further information visit www.firepreventionweek.org and learn how to keep you and your family safe.
Unfortunately fires do occur. When fire and water damage take control of you life, we help you take it back. Call SERVPRO of The Upper Peninsula at 906-204-2450.
Houghton Flood Relief Efforts
9/18/2018 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of The Upper Peninsula would like to thank all Disaster Relief Responders and volunteers, for restoring communities in times of tragedy.
Here's a few photos of donated supplies we unloaded at Dee Stadium in Houghton yesterday afternoon (boxes, contractor bags, work gloves, rubber gloves, booties, face masks, and cases of bottled water) to help in the relief efforts.
The Houghton Police Department recommends calling the Houghton City Center at 906-482-1700 to find out what immediate donation needs are to best utilize resources.
We also offered some "do's and don'ts" to be cautious of until help arrives. Such as: 1) Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting. 2) Move any paintings, art objects, computers, documents, and other sensitive valuables to a dry place. 3) Don't enter affected areas if electrical outlets, switches, circuit breakers, or electrical equipment are exposed to water. Always avoid electrical shock hazards. 4) Do NOT use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water; this could cause electrical shock or damage to the vacuum. 5) Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet or enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water. 6) Use precautions (such as 1 team in unaffected area, 1 team in affected---or booties) to protect from cross contamination from affected to unaffected areas of the home. 7) Make sure you are using safety equipment while assisting in mitigation efforts. 8) Apply an antimicrobial after water has been dried to prevent any type of growth or secondary damage from forming.
If you have questions, or need professional help contact SERVPRO of The Upper Peninsula for assistance (906) 204-2450. Our goal is to make your house feel like home again!
SERVPRO of The Upper Peninsula provides 24 hour fire and water damage restoration service in The Upper Peninsula.
5/8/2018 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of The Upper Peninsula 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 - (906) 204-2450
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 The Upper Peninsula 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 The Upper Peninsula
SERVPRO of The Upper Peninsula 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.
For Immediate Service in The Upper Peninsula, Call SERVPRO
5/8/2018 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of The Upper Peninsula provides 24-hour emergency services and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster in The Upper Peninsula. We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.
- 24-Hour Emergency Service
- Faster to Any-Sized Disaster
- Highly Trained Restoration Technicians
- A Trusted Leader in The Restoration Industry
- Locally Owned and Operated
- Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment
Have Questions? Call us 24/7 SERVPRO of The Upper Peninsula (906) 204-2450
Residential Services
Whether your Upper Peninsula home needs emergency flood damage or your upholstery cleaned, you can depend on us. Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and can make your property look its best. Learn more about our residential services:
- Water Damage Restoration
- Fire Damage Restoration
- Mold Remediation
- Storm Damage Restoration
- Cleaning Services
- Sewage Back-up Services
- Building/Reconstruction Services
Commercial Services
There's never a convenient time for fire or water damage to strike your Upper Peninsula commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business. Learn more about our commercial services: http://www.SERVPROtheupperpeninsula.com/commercial-restoration-services
- Commercial Water Damage Restoration
- Commercial Fire Damage Restoration
Smoke and Soot Cleanup
5/8/2018 (Permalink)
Smoke Damage to a kitchen in Au Train, MI
Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.
Smoke and soot facts:
- Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
- Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
- The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.
Different Types of Smoke
There are two different types of smoke-wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of The Upper Peninsula will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:
Wet Smoke-Plastic and Rubber
- Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are difficult to clean.
Dry Smoke-Paper and Wood
- Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.
Protein Fire Residue-Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire
Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor.
Our Fire Damage Restoration Services
Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions. We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage. We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.
Have questions about Fire, Smoke or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today-SERVPRO of The Upper Peninsula (906) 204-2450
We Specialize in Flooded Basement Cleanup and Restoration!
5/8/2018 (Permalink)
A basement can flood at any time, although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall. Basements are inherently prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of a building and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level. There are a number of reasons why your Upper Peninsula basement could flood, including:
- A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe
- Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home
- Storm sewer backup
- Sanitary sewer backup
- Foundation drainage failure
- Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure
- And many more
Have Questions about Basement Flooding?
Call Today-SERVPRO of The Upper Peninsula (906) 204-2450
If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can jeopardize your health and safety, and cause severe damage to your home's structure. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.
The bottom line: a flooded basement can jeopardize your health, safety, and your home's integrity. It's worth making a call to SERVPRO of The Upper Peninsula and let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. WE have earned the trust of hundreds of homeowners, business owners, and property professionals.
We are Flooded Basement Specialists:
- We are available 24/7
- We're a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies
- We bill the Insurance directly-One less thing for you to worry about
- Our technicians are highly-trained in Water Restoration Techniques
- We use s500 IICRC Restoration standards
- Advanced inspection and extraction Equipment
Basement Flooded? Call us Today-We're Ready to Help
SERVPRO of The Upper Peninsula (906) 204-2450
Summer Safety!
5/8/2018 (Permalink)
Summer is in full swing, and summer means grilling out and lighting up a fire to sit around once the sun goes down. Here in The Upper Peninsula, we like to take full advantage of the summer weather! We also love a good cook out, so we move from cooking inside to outside on the grill. While we look forward to this time of year, it is important to keep these fire safety tips in mind.
Grilling:
- Keep at least a three foot clearance around the entire grill. Keep kids and pets clear of this area too!
- Move the grill away from the house and fence, and move it out from underneath any overhangs. Do not use the grill under trees or near shrubbery.
- Regularly clean out the grease traps on your grill to prevent grease fires.
- Never leave your grill unattended!
- If using charcoal, make sure the coals have cooled completely before disposing of them in a metal container.
- Keeping a fire extinguisher or a big box of baking soda in the vicinity is good idea in case a fire does breakout.
Bonfires:
- When a burn ban is in effect, use a fire pit, preferably with a lid that can cover the fire in case of an emergency.
- When a burn ban is not in effect, you can burn on the ground where the grass is low and green. Never burn on grass that is long or dry! Take a hose and saturate the area around the fire with water to help prevent it from spreading.
- Drag a hose over to where you’re burning. If you have a sprayer on your hose, turn the water on and keep it on until you’re through with your fire in case of an emergency.
- Never have a fire under trees or overhangs, near shrubbery, or close to the house.
- Keep flammable materials away from fires.
- Never leave a fire unattended.
- Never have a fire on a windy day!
Tips to avoid water damage in your home!
4/3/2018 (Permalink)
14,000 homeowners rush to deal with water leak emergencies every day- don't let it be you!
Follows these tips to avoid water damage in your house!
- Disconnect your water hose during a freeze. Standing water in a hose may freeze back into the pipe and create an ice block that may bust your pipes and create damage to walls and floors.
- Check and maintain your appliances regularly for leaks.
- Check your water pressure. If the pressure is too high, pipes and hoses may fail.
- Make sure your gutters and downspouts are cleaned out.
- Investigate leaks right away and fix immediately.
- Know the location of your water main. If you leave your house for an extended amount of time, shut it off to avoid leaks while you are gone.
- Monitor your water bill. Sometimes, the only way to realize you have a leak is by taking a good look at your water bill. If your usage jumps significantly from one month to the next without explanation then you may have a leak somewhere.
Spring Cleaning Tips
4/3/2018 (Permalink)
Make doormats welcoming!
Shake 'em, wash 'em, swat 'em with a broom. Give them the toughest cleaning they can take. They’re your front line against tracked-in dirt—so keep them clean enough to function at peak efficiency.
Clean carpets and upholstery
Fabrics that have absorbed a winter’s worth of dirt, body oil, and germs will need a deep cleaning to get them ready for another year of wear—and for that close inspection by your relaxing guests. When you’re shampooing carpets or cleaning upholstery with a rented carpet cleaner, practice first in an unobtrusive area to make sure you have the knack of the machine and that the treatment won’t discolor fabrics or cause dyes to run. Move furniture just slightly—not out of the room or against the wall, as the old rules dictated—and place the legs of each piece back on top of small wax paper squares after shampooing. The wax paper will protect your carpet and keep the furniture legs from getting wet as the carpet dries. Open the windows to speed the drying process, which can take a day or more. If you’re not the furniture-shifting and machine-renting type, use a professional carpet and upholstery cleaner.
Wash walls, cabinets, baseboards, and woodwork
The walls may not look as if they need a bath—dust and soot fall to the floor, right? Most of it does, but just enough clings to vertical surfaces to warrant a seasonal or pre-holiday bath. Use a sponge and hand dishwashing detergent, washing the surface in sections. A sponge mop makes it easier to reach higher spots. Use two buckets: one for dishwashing detergent solution and another for wringing your sponge. Dry the walls and woodwork with a clean cloth.
Clean ceiling fixtures
Remove dust and dirt from ceiling fans and air-conditioner vents with a cloth and a vacuum with a soft nozzle attachment.
Check your coils
You should clean the refrigerator’s condenser coil, usually found behind the toe grille, with a long-handled bottle brush and a vacuum cleaner with an attachment hose to remove dust and lint. Built-up dust can shut down the unit by causing it to overheat. To remove dust from coils attached to the hard-to-reach back side of the fridge, carefully pull the refrigerator out several feet (newer models roll on casters) and vacuum thoroughly; finish by sweeping or vacuuming the floor area you’ve revealed. Expect to rediscover coins, bottle caps, and twist ties that you and the cat knocked over the past year.
What to do when your basement floods
4/3/2018 (Permalink)
When a basement floods it is a stressful, confusing event which can take a lot of time, money and effort to bring your home back to where it was before the water damage. Whether the damage is caused by a broken water pipe, heavy rains, snow melt, a failed sump pump or swelling of ground water complicate things further as they all require different approaches to make it "Like it never even happened."
Fortunately here at SERVPRO of The Upper Peninsula we have been able to help families with flooded basements all around the Upper Peninsula and are ready to help you. In this blog we will seek to give you general advice for handling flooded basements but do remember our emergency line is open 24/7 and we are here to help you with specific advice for your flooded basement.
Safety for you and your family should be your first concern when you find out your basement has flooded. There are two main safety concerns in every water intrusion situation Electrical and Tripping hazards are the most prevalent source of injury in our industry.
- Never go into a flood damaged basement with standing water which has submerged outlets or other active sources of electricity. Wait for the water to be pumped out by a professional, such as SERVPRO, if you can’t safety do that yourself.
- Most home electronic systems and devices can be damaged from being submerged or exposed to water. Don’t us devices or outlets that have been exposed to water even after the water has been pumped out.
- It is not just the water but also the particulates in the water which will stay behind even after the water has been removed that can damage electrical systems and equipment.
- Not everything breaks immediately it can take time after electrical system is exposed to water before it breaks or becomes unsafe.
- Pay attention to where you are walking, many restoration professionals have hurt themselves walking across different materials (such as carpet to tile) because they didn’t expect the different in friction when these materials are wet.
- If you are removing any materials from your basement remember that wet materials can be VERY heavy.
- Keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging
When you have accounted for safety you can move on to being proactive about your home and belongings before our restoration technicians get there. Every minute counts which is why we respond 24/7 to emergencies and why anything you do until we get there can help protect your home.
- If possible find the source of water intrusion and stop the flow of water into your property. Check your sump pump to make sure it is working. They sometimes get unplugged or the arm gets stuck. If a pipe is broken shut off your water valve to your home.
- Remove as much water as you can. Using a shop vac, mopping or blotting possible. The less water which is allowed to soak into your furniture, walls and carpet the better off you will be.
- Move furniture off of wet carpet and wipe the legs or bottoms before placing in an unaffected area. Wet furniture, especially wood and metal, can stain carpet very quickly.
- If you cannot remove furniture from an affected area you can place foil or woodblocks between furniture legs and the carpet to prevent staining.
- Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting so their coloring doesn’t bleed onto the carpet.
- Turn on air conditioning for maximum drying in the summer.
Remember that our emergency line (906) 204-2450 is always answered by one of the restoration professionals here at SERVPRO of The Upper Peninsula, so we can give you advice specific to your situation. We are always Here to Help.
Summer Fire Safety Tips
7/27/2017 (Permalink)
Summer is in full swing, and summer means grilling out and lighting up a fire to sit around once the sun goes down. Here in The Upper Peninsula, we like to take full advantage of the summer weather! We also love a good cook out, so we move from cooking inside to outside on the grill. While we look forward to this time of year, it is important to keep these fire safety tips in mind.
Grilling:
- Keep at least a three foot clearance around the entire grill. Keep kids and pets clear of this area too!
- Move the grill away from the house and fence, and move it out from underneath any overhangs. Do not use the grill under trees or near shrubbery.
- Regularly clean out the grease traps on your grill to prevent grease fires.
- Never leave your grill unattended!
- If using charcoal, make sure the coals have cooled completely before disposing of them in a metal container.
- Keeping a fire extinguisher or a big box of baking soda in the vicinity is good idea in case a fire does breakout.
Bonfires:
- When a burn ban is in effect, use a fire pit, preferably with a lid that can cover the fire in case of an emergency.
- When a burn ban is not in effect, you can burn on the ground where the grass is low and green. Never burn on grass that is long or dry! Take a hose and saturate the area around the fire with water to help prevent it from spreading.
- Drag a hose over to where you’re burning. If you have a sprayer on your hose, turn the water on and keep it on until you’re through with your fire in case of an emergency.
- Never have a fire under trees or overhangs, near shrubbery, or close to the house.
- Keep flammable materials away from fires.
- Never leave a fire unattended.
- Never have a fire on a windy day!
Happy St. Patrick's Day!
3/17/2017 (Permalink)
Don't get in a pinch! Choose the team that's ALWAYS wearing green! At SERVPRO of The Upper Peninsula, we're always here to help. Happy St. Patrick's Day!
7 Tips to Avoid Bursting Pipes this Winter
1/31/2017 (Permalink)
7 Tips to Avoid Bursting Pipes this Winter
SERVPRO of The Upper Peninsula is here to help in case of a pipe that bursts or lines that freeze. Our crews are ready 24/7! No matter how big or small our local SERVPRO team handles them all, give us a call at (906) 204-2450!
7 Helpful Tips to Avoid Bursting Pipes This Winter
Outdoor Tips:
- Wrap outside faucets.
- Caulk around pipes where they enter the house.
- Disconnect garden hoses.
- Drain in-ground sprinkler systems
Indoor Tips:
- Let a stream of water run if the temperature dips below freezing.
- Open cupboard doors in the kitchen and bathrooms.
- Shut off and drain your water system if you are leaving the house for several days.
We Specialize in Flooded Basement Cleanup
1/27/2017 (Permalink)
This basement flooded due to heavy rains.
A basement can flood at any time, although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall. Basements are inherently prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of a building and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level. There are a number of reasons why your Upper Peninsula basement could flood, including:
- A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe
- Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home
- Storm sewer backup
- Sanitary sewer backup
- Foundation drainage failure
- Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure
- And many more
Have Questions about Basement Flooding?
Call Today-SERVPRO of The Upper Peninsula (906) 204-2450
If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can jeopardize your health and safety, and cause severe damage to your home's structure. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.
The bottom line: a flooded basement can jeopardize your health, safety, and your home's integrity. It's worth making a call to SERVPRO of The Upper Peninsula and let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. WE have earned the trust of hundreds of homeowners, business owners, and property professionals.
We are Flooded Basement Specialists:
- We are available 24/7
- We're a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies
- We bill the Insurance directly-One less thing for you to worry about
- Our technicians are highly-trained in Water Restoration Techniques
- We use s500 IICRC Restoration standards
- Advanced inspection and extraction Equipment
Basement Flooded? Call us Today-We're Ready to Help
SERVPRO of The Upper Peninsula (906) 204-2450
Smoke and Soot Cleanup
1/27/2017 (Permalink)
Smoke and Soot Damage Can Cause a Pervasive Odor in Your Upper Peninsula Home.
Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.
Smoke and soot facts:
- Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
- Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
- The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.
Different Types of Smoke
There are two different types of smoke-wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of The Upper Peninsula will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:
Wet Smoke-Plastic and Rubber
- Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are difficult to clean.
Dry Smoke-Paper and Wood
- Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.
Protein Fire Residue-Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire
- Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor.
Our Fire Damage Restoration Services
Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions. We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage. We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.
Have questions about Fire, Smoke or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today-SERVPRO of The Upper Peninsula (906) 204-2450
For Immediate Service in The Upper Peninsula, Call SERVPRO
1/27/2017 (Permalink)
We provide immediate service day or night!
SERVPRO of The Upper Peninsula provides 24-hour emergency services and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster in The Upper Peninsula. We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.
- 24-Hour Emergency Service
- Faster to Any-Sized Disaster
- Highly Trained Restoration Technicians
- A Trusted Leader in The Restoration Industry
- Locally Owned and Operated
- Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment
Have Questions? Call us 24/7 SERVPRO of The Upper Peninsula (906) 204-2450
Residential Services
Whether your Upper Peninsula home needs emergency flood damage or your upholstery cleaned, you can depend on us. Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and can make your property look its best. Learn more about our residential services:
- Water Damage Restoration
- Fire Damage Restoration
- Mold Remediation
- Storm Damage Restoration
- Cleaning Services
- Sewage Back-up Services
- Building/Reconstruction Services
Commercial Services
There's never a convenient time for fire or water damage to strike your Upper Peninsula commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business. Learn more about our commercial services: http://www.SERVPROtheupperpeninsula.com/commercial-restoration-services
- Commercial Water Damage Restoration
- Commercial Fire Damage Restoration
SERVPRO of The Upper Peninsula provides 24 hour fire and water damage restoration service in The Upper Peninsula.
8/23/2016 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of The Upper Peninsula 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 - (906) 204-2450
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 The Upper Peninsula 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 The Upper Peninsula
SERVPRO of The Upper Peninsula 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.
24/7 Emergency Service
