Be Prepared for Ohio Weather

6/28/2022 (Permalink)

A common phrase I heard in Ohio was “if you don’t like the weather, just wait a few days.” Extreme shifts in weather are fairly common in this area from huge temperature jumps to severe storms. While most are able to shelter in a safe place when they hear of a chance for extreme weather, homeowners should be thinking about these months in advance, and checking their insurance policies to make sure they have coverage for water and windstorm damage, debris and tree removal, sewer backup due to flooding, and sump pump failure due to flooding. Having photos of the exterior of your home before a storm hits is always recommended, and an inspection after a storm comes through is important to note any damage and prevent secondary damage. Some areas of your home you should look at include:

Exterior- Walk around exterior of home and inspect all siding. Also be sure to make note of damage to AC/HVAC unit and outdoor appliances such as grills.

Windows- This is extremely important after a wind or hailstorm, check for shatter or cracked windows and for any frame damage.

Roof- Check for missing, discolored, or damaged shingles as your first sign for roof damage. If you don’t see any damage to roof but are experiencing leaking in your ceiling, you should have someone come out immediately to prevent secondary damage.

If your home or business experiences damage from a storm call your local restoration specialist, SERVPRO of Central Auglaize/Hardin/Logan Counties today at 937-354-3540.

Summer Power Outage in Logan County

6/16/2022 (Permalink)

Strong thunderstorms with damaging winds ripped through Logan County earlier this week taking with it trees and power lines leaving thousands of residents without power, some for days now. This week has also brought with it a heatwave making a bad situation worse. While power companies are working around the clock to restore power to all customers it’s always good to be prepared when something like this happens. Here are a few tips to help you deal with prolonged summer power outages.

1. Keep Emergency Supplies on Hand

Having an emergency supply kit on hand is the first step in being prepared for a power outage. Kits should include water and non-perishable food, enough for 3 days for every person living in the home, cell phone or land line, emergency contact list, flashlight, and battery-operated radio.

2. Keep Refrigerator and Freezer Doors Closed

Keeping the doors closed will greatly aid the unit in holding its temperature. The CDC states that food will hold in a refrigerator for 4 hours, while a full freezer can hold food for 48 hours, and a half full freezer will hold for 24 hours.

3. Keep Outside Doors and Windows Closed

Shading the house with curtains and blinds and keeping doors and windows closed will keep as much of the cool air from going out and the warm air from coming in as possible.

4. Check for Cooling Stations in your Community

When residents are without power for prolonged periods most communities will have cooling stations set up around the city providing them somewhere to go to cool off when temperatures are dangerously high.

5. Check on Friends and Neighbors

Infants and children up to the age of four, people over 65, people who are overweight, and people who are ill or take certain medications are at a higher risk for heat related illnesses, check on neighbors and friends to make sure they are staying safe.

6. Keep Pets Hydrated

Heat affects our pets the same way it affects us. Always make sure they have access to clean, cool water.

7. DIY a Battery Powered A/C Unit

There are lots of tutorials available online for homemade A/C units, most use a sealed container, a pipe, fan, and ice to provide cooling relief. Make sure your fan is battery operated so it can be used during a power outage.

8. Keep Activities for Kids on Hand

Kids can get impatient during a power outage, and when power is limited screen time may not be an option so keeping things like coloring books, crayons, boardgames, and other activities on hand is always a good idea.

Even with the best preparations disaster can still strike. If you experience a storm loss in your home or business call the restoration professions, SERVPRO of Central Auglaize/Hardin/Logan Counties at 937-354-3540.

Tornado in West Liberty, OH

6/9/2022 (Permalink)

With a tornado touching down in West Liberty, OH last night we just wanted to send out a reminder about tornado safety. We at SERVPRO of Central Auglaize/Hardin/Logan Counties are “Ready for whatever happens” and we want our community to be as well.

Tornado season in Ohio peaks in May June and July but they can strike any time day or night and at any time during the year. Tornadoes are most common in the Central Plains and Southeast United States, but they have been reported in all 50 states. A tornado is a rotating column of air coming from the bottom of a thunderstorm towards the ground. They are extremely powerful and can uproot trees, destroying well-made structures, and hurling object through the air like missiles.

The best way to protect yourself and your family is to have a plan in place if you ever encounter one of these powerful storms. Here are some tips to help keep you safe.

Before the Storm

• Know the signs of a tornado. Watch for rotation, funnel shaped clouds, and flying debris. Listen for load roaring, some compare it to the sound of a freight train.
• Be sure to keep an eye on weather conditions and sign up for your community’s warning system. NOAA weather radio and The Emergency Alert System (EAS) also provide this information.
• Find a safe place in your home to go during a storm and practice going there with your family. Best place to go is a basement or a small, interior, windowless room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building.
• Have emergency supplies available in that room in case you are sheltering in place for extended periods. Emergency supplies should include water, non-perishable foods, medical supplies, and medications.
• Keep photos of the interior and exterior of your home in case your property experiences damage you will have photos to bring your home back to preloss conditions.

During the Storm

• Immediately gather your family and head to safe location you have identified.
• Pay attention to local alerting systems, NOAA Weather Radio, or EAS.
• Keep yourself protected by covering your head and neck with your arms or using materials such as blankets and furniture.
• If outdoors with no access to a building or in vehicle try to keep head and neck protected with arms and blankets/coats if possible. If you are in a vehicle, never try to outrun a tornado.

After the Storm

• Check local authorities, EAS, or NOAA weather radio to make sure coast is clear before leaving your safe location.
• Always stay clear of broken utility lines or fallen power lines.
• Contact your health care provider or emergency services if you are injured.
• Wear protective gear when cleaning up any debris. This should include work gloves, long pants, thick-sole shoes, and masks if necessary.

If you do experience a loss caused by a tornado contact SERVPRO of Central Auglaize/Hardin/Logan Counties 24/7 at 937-354-3540 so we can make it “Like it never even happened.”

Stay Safe During Tornado Season in Logan County

5/9/2022 (Permalink)

With changing weather, mixes of cold and warm fronts can produce disastrous storms including tornadoes.

Tornado season is here and pop-up storms and weather patterns during the shift of the seasons bring the ingredients to produce tornadoes in the Logan County area. SERVPRO of Central Auglaize/Hardin/Logan Counties is prepared and always here to help! Here are 5 tips to prepare your home or business in the event a tornado event was to happen. 

1. Create a Disaster Kit.
   • Flashlights; Batteries; Extra shoes for entire family; Bottled water; First aid kit. Photograph/video home and contents with time stamps.
2. Create a Family Communications Guide.
   • Have a plan to reach other family members. A meeting place if communication systems are down.
3. Follow Evacuation Plans.
   • In the event evacuation plans are put into place, act on them immediately.
4. Know What to do During a Tornado.
   • Lowest level of the home (basement); inner most portion of the home; away from windows.
5. Know What to do After a Tornado.
   • Shelter locations; food and water distribution; photographs of damage.

If a tornado does bring damage to your home or business SERVPRO of Central Auglaize/Hardin/Logan Counties is available 24/7 and ready to respond call us at 937-354-3540

Storms in Logan County Can Produce Hail

5/9/2022 (Permalink)

Hail that has fallen during a storm with sizes capable of producing heavy damage.

Why is Hail so Dangerous?

 Hailstones generally fall at higher speeds as they grow in size, though complicating factors such as melting, friction with air, wind, and interaction with rain and other hailstones can slow their descent through Earths Atmosphere. Severe weather warnings are issued for hail when the stones reach a damaging size, as it can cause serious damage to human-made structures, and, most commonly, farmers' crops.

What should you do if your property is damaged by hail? 

1. Photos of all damaged property.
2. Photos/Videos of the hail before it melts
3. Board up any broken windows.
4. Tarp holes in roof.

SERVPRO of Central Auglaize/Hardin/Logan Counties is ready for whatever happens.

We have the ability to secure a damaged home or business in order to minimize and prevent secondary damages.

We are available 24/7 at 937-354-3540.

24hr Emergency Storm Damage service for Logan County

5/4/2022 (Permalink)

Standing water still in a basement after the sump pump was replaced.

Storm Season and Being prepared in Logan County. 

As the winter ends the spring rains are soon to follow. Ensuring your basement is protected should be the one thing done during that transition of seasons. here are a few tips to make sure you’re ready for the spring rains. 

1. Contact your insurance company to be more familiar with your policy. Ensure you have sufficient coverage for backups/Sump pumps/septic/sewage. Ensure you can replace loss personal property and building materials.
2. Keep all expensive and favored possessions off the floor and away from low ground in case of flooding.
3. Run a check on your sump pump by pouring water into the pit and ensuring the float engages and turn the pump on.
4. Sump pump's older than 7 years should be changed. 
5. Install a battery backup system onto your sump pump in the event you lose power.

Call SERVPRO of Central Auglaize/Hardin/Logan Counties at 937.354.3540

Flood Damage Info for the Kenton, Ada, Bellefontaine Ohio & Surrounding Areas

7/1/2021 (Permalink)

Few disasters can ravage a home like a flood. Understanding the cause, what to look for, and how to prepare are the secrets to protecting your home and possessions from flood waters. 

Flood Stats

Floods are the most common natural disaster worldwide, accounting for 40% of all natural disasters. They cause billions of dollars in damage to life and property in the United States every year. With no specific season, they can happen anywhere, and at any time. Unfortunately, only a small percentage of Americans (less than 15%) have any sort of flood insurance at all, although the percentage may be locally higher in extreme flood risk areas. High risk areas pose a 26% chance of flooding over the life of a thirty year mortgage. All federally or insured mortgage homeowners in these areas are required to purchase flood insurance. In moderate to low risk areas, the danger of flooding is reduced but not eliminated. Flood insurance is not required, but is recommended.

Info About Flooding in Kenton, OH

6/30/2021 (Permalink)

So what does water — not a small leak but a major deluge — do to a house?

Soaks insulation

Most insulation used in homes is made of fibers or foams that hold water, so it has to be replaced if it gets wet. But other types, such as closed-cell foam, don’t absorb water and can survive a flood.

Floodwater from a storm is a nasty soup of microorganisms from sewage leaks, chemical spills and everyday contaminants. Properly cleaning all but the most valuable pieces would probably cost more than replacing them.

Any carpet and padding that was covered in water will have to go because it’s just too hard to clean. Laminate flooring will usually peel apart. Hardwood floors may survive with a lot of TLC, such as removing boards here and there to let the others expand so that they don’t warp. Some tile may just need to be cleaned, but even usable flooring may need to be temporarily removed to clean and dry out the sub flooring.

When Storms or Floods hit Kenton, Bellefontaine and Ada areas, SERVPRO is ready!

5/20/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Central Auglaize, Hardin & Logan Counties specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Kenton, Bellefontaine, and Ada  we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today (937)354-3540

Preparing for Spring Storms

4/7/2021 (Permalink)

Advance planning for thunderstorms, lightning, tornadoes, and floods requires specific safety precautions. Often by the time we are aware of an approaching storm, we have little if any time to prepare for it.

But we do know that when spring arrives, thunderstorms, tornadoes, and floods are real possibilities. So why not take the surprise factor out of severe weather and prepare yourself, your family, and your home? If thunderstorms, tornadoes, and floods do occur, you'll be ready for them.

Restoring storm- and flood-damaged properties is the cornerstone of our business. Our highly trained professionals use specialized equipment and advanced training to quickly restore your Bellefontaine property to pre-storm condition. We’re dedicated to responding immediately, which helps to minimize secondary damage.

Locally Owned Company with National Storm Resources

SERVPRO of Central Auglaize / Hardin / Logan Counties is locally owned and operated, so we are part of this community too. When you have a flooding or storm emergency, we’re already nearby and ready to help. We take pride in being a part of the Bellefontaine community and want to do our part in making it the best it can be.

Have Storm or Flood Damage?
Call Us Today (937) 354-3540

How To Prevent Spring Storm Damage in Central Auglaize, Hardin, and Logan Counties

3/17/2021 (Permalink)

Spring is just around the corner and that means so is the rain. Like they say, Spring showers bring May flowers. But Spring storms often bring flooding and storm damage as well. Here are some tips to help prevent Spring storm damage in Central Auglaize, Hardin, and Logan Counties:

• Clean out your gutters and downspouts- this prevents clogging that will add weight to your roof causing roof damage and possible roof collapse
• Seal windows, doors, and roof- these areas are prone to heavy storm waters leaking through
• Search for cracks in your foundation- even small cracks in you foundation can cause major damage as water sits in the ground and seeps into your home
•  Install a backflow valve in your basement to prevent sewage backup- when there are heavy rains, the city sewage system becomes overwhelmed often leaving you with the problem of backflow.

Hopefully, you don't have any issues due to Spring storms but if you do call SERVPRO of Central Auglaize, Hardin, and Logan Counties at 937-354-3540. We are open 24/7 and always here to help our community!

When Pipes Freeze in Hardin, Logan, and Auglaize Counties

2/8/2021 (Permalink)

We have seen the real feel get to the negatives the past few days which got us thinking about frozen pipes. When you have that winter storm that causes the temperatures to drop, keep these tips in mind to prevent frozen pipes. 

• Disconnect and drain garden hoses.
• Cover outside faucets with insulating foam covers.
• Turn off water to outside faucets, if available, and open valves on faucets to allow them to drain.
• Turn off sprinkler system and blow compressed air through the lines to drain them.
• Close or cover foundation vents under house and windows to basements.
• Close garage doors.
• Insulate exposed pipes (both hot and cold) under house with foam pipe insulation.
• Open cabinet doors under sinks.
• Drip hot and cold faucets in kitchen and bath. Drip single control faucets with lever set in middle.
• Set ice maker to make ice if the water line to it runs under the house.
• Don’t forget to check on pipes to your washing machine in the laundry room
• Locate water main cut-off valve, and have a cut-off key handy.
• Use a hair dryer, heat lamp, electric heat tape, or a portable space heater to thaw frozen pipes that have not burst.
• Keep the faucet open when thawing frozen pipes to allow water to begin flowing through it.
• After the weather has warmed above freezing and any frozen pipes have thawed, turn off dripping faucets and monitor your water meter to check for unseen leaks.

Hopefully, you don't end up with water damage from a pipe burst but if you do give SERVPRO of Central Auglaize, Hardin, and Logan Counties a call at 937-354-3540.

Staying Safe During a Tornado

6/19/2020 (Permalink)

Make sure you and your loved ones know what constitutes a safe shelter. No one can know a tornado's strength before it touches down, so keep up with local weather information, especially when thunderstorms are forecast. Prepare your home and family for the possibility of a tornado. Moving to shelter quickly is easier when everyone knows where to go, whether in your home or outdoors. Following these tips will give you the best chance for staying safe in a tornado.

Falling and flying debris causes most deaths and injuries during a tornado. Although there is no completely safe place during a tornado, some locations are much safer than others.

• Go to the basement or an inside room without windows on the lowest floor (bathroom, closet, center hallway).
• Avoid windows.
• For added protection get under something sturdy (a heavy table or workbench). Cover your body with a blanket, sleeping bag or mattress. Protect your head with anything available.
• Do not stay in a mobile home.

Storm Damage Procedures

6/19/2020 (Permalink)

No two water damage issues are identical. That being said, most of the time there are a standard set of steps to be followed that will produce the desired outcome.

Water damage restoration is often prefaced by a loss assessment and evaluation of affected materials. The damaged area is inspected with water sensing equipment such as probes and other infrared tools in order to determine the source of the damage and possible extent of area affected.

Restoration services would then be rendered to the residence in order to dry the structure, sanitize any affected or cross contaminated areas, and deodorize all affected areas and materials.

After the labor is completed, water damage equipment including air movers, air scrubbers, dehumidifiers, wood floor drying systems, and sub floor drying equipment is left in the residence. Industry standards state that drying vendors should return at regular time intervals, preferably every twenty-four hours, to monitor the equipment, temperature, humidity, and moisture content of the affected walls and contents.

Storm Damage Can Happen Anywhere and Anytime

3/30/2018 (Permalink)

Damaging Storms

The following is an outline of a few of the key information points in a storm/water damage situation.

Different removal methods and measures are used depending on the category of water. Due to the destructive nature of water, chosen restoration methods also depend heavily on the amount of water, and on the amount of time the water has remained stagnant.

For example, as long as carpet has not been wet for longer than 48 hours, and the water involved was not sewage based, a carpet can usually be saved; however, if the water has soaked for longer, then the carpet is probably irreparable and will have to be replaced.

Water damage restoration can be performed by property management teams, building maintenance personnel, or by the homeowners themselves; however, contacting a certified professional water damage restoration specialist is often regarded as the safest way to restore water damaged property.

Give us a call to see if we may help you at (937)354-3540!