What To Do Until Help Arrives

9/27/2023 (Permalink)

Biohazard contaminants should be considered very dangerous as they can cause serious health issues. Some common biohazards are sewer backups and flood water. SERVPRO® of Council Bluffs has the proper equipment, training, and protective gear necessary to safely make any biohazard situation "Like it never even happened". 

Examples of Biohazards:

Mold

COVID and other viral pathogens

Crime Scenes

Bodily Fluids

Hoarding 

Animal Infestation

Flood Waters

Sewage Backups

Call (712)256-6616 for your biohazard cleanup needs!

After a biohazard has been found, make sure you clear the area if deemed unsafe. Call the appropriate emergency personal if life-threatening. Call a professional restoration company to safely mitigate the hazardous situation. Flood water and sewage backups should be considered dangerous. Flood water can contain harmful contaminates. Biohazard situations don't wait for regular business hours, neither do we. SERVPRO® of Council Bluffs has trained professionals ready to help 24/7/365- including ALL major holidays. 

Electrical Safety

9/20/2023 (Permalink)

Consumer electronic products are more prevalent than ever. Research indicates that the average household owns more than twenty-five consumer electronic products. With all of today's technology, it can prove challenging to safely maintain power to all of our electronic devices. Electrical outlets are easy to overload and as a result, may become hazardous. While adding a power strip or extension cord seems like an easy solution to a lack of electrical outlets, the wiring in some buildings often isn't capable of supporting too many high-powered electronic appliances. 

Older office buildings and homes, in particular, often suffer from lack of electrical outlets. The temptation is to simply add a power strip or plug in an extension cord from across the room. Even in newer office buildings and homes, it can be all too easy to overload a single outlet with power hungry machines such as computers, printers, scanners, and monitors. 

When an employee or resident overloads an electrical outlet, that means more current is running through the outlet that means more current is running through the outlet than it can handle. This causes that outlet than it can handle. This causes the outlet to overheat, which may lead to an electrical fire. According to a 2008 National Fire Protection Association study, electrical distribution and lighting equipment are involved in more than 24,000 home structure fire per year. These fires resulted in an average of 320 deaths per year and an estimated $700 million in property damage per year. 

If an electrical fire should occur, get safely away from the fire and call your fire department. If you choose to use an extinguisher on the fire, never let the fire get between you and a safe exit, and never let use water to extinguish an electrical fire. Class C fire extinguishers use a non-conductive extinguisher agent and should not cause electrical shock. 

To help prevent this and other electrical hazards, refer to the list below (provided by Electrical Safety Foundation International). 

• If you must use a power strip, use a name brand product from a reputable retailer. Low-quality or counterfeit power strips may contain wiring that isn't adequate to carry the load. 
• Place power strips where there is plenty of air circulation to disperse the heat. 
• Never attempt to plug grounded (three-pronged) cords into an ungrounded (two-pronged) outlet. 
• Do not bind, kink or know electrical cords.

Why SERVPRO Over the Other Guys?

9/20/2023 (Permalink)

Why SERVPRO®?

1. Independently Owned and Operated  

Each SERVPRO Franchise is Independently Owned and Operated. SERVPRO® has over 1800 franchises in the US and Canada. SERVPRO® owners have resources across the country, with years of experience and knowledge in all things restoration and cleaning. When disaster strikes, rest assured SERVPRO® will be able to handle any size disaster. 

2. Highly Trained Professionals

Our SERVPRO® crew is highly trained in cleaning and restoration. All of our techs are WRT (Water Damage Restoration Technician) certified through the IIRC. the IIRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) certifies and sets the standards for the cleaning and restoration industry. Our team understands that disaster doesn't always strike at the most convenient time. Our crews are ready and waiting 24/7- including all holidays. Faster to any size disaster™.

3. Advanced Specialized Equipment

The IIRC sets practical standards for restoration and cleaning. In the IIRC S500 for water damage, it incorporates psychometry. Psychometry involves the manipulation of temperature and relative humidity to remove moisture and dry a property quickly and effectively. An infrared camera may be used to identify water location for thorough water removal. Hygrometers can be used to measure the extent of moisture saturation. This helps to find lurking moisture even when it appears dry. Our desiccant can remove 500+ gallons of water in a 24 hour period. In addition to the desiccant, we have an arsenal of high tech drying equipment. 

Tornadoes...what to do

9/19/2023 (Permalink)

Did you know 1,200 tornadoes hit the US each year? Omaha, NE is a tornado-prone zone. It is essential to be prepared for natural disasters. Do you know the difference in tornado watch and tornado warning? 

A Watch means conditions are favorable for development. A watch can be issued up to 8 hours in advance of severe weather. It also usually covers a large area. Take necessary precautions in case bad weather strikes. Keep up to date with changing weather status. Have a plan to take shelter in case WARNING status is issued. 

A Warning means severe weather is occurring or imminent. It covers a small area. When a warning is issued, take action immediately. Stay away from doors and windows. Do not attempt to outrun a tornado.

What to do During a Tornado 

Stay Updated on weather alters. Continue to listen to local news sources or weather services for tornado watches and warnings. 

At Home: Go to the lowest level interior room. Stay away from windows and doors. 

At workplace or school: Proceed to your tornado shelter. Do not gather in big open areas, and stay away from windows and doors. 

Outside; Seek shelter in a sturdy building immediately. If no safe shelter is available, lay in a flat ditch or ravine. Cover your head. 

If disaster strikes, call the trusted professionals at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West Saunders County to make your storm damage, "Like it never even happened."

6 Reasons to Get Your Air Duct Cleaned

9/19/2023 (Permalink)

There are many steps that homeowners need to take in the maintenance of their property, but air duct cleaning is one of the most essential. What is it about this service that makes it so vital for people in the Omaha, NE area? Check out some of the reasons that you should have your air ducts cleaned:

6 Reasons to Get Your Air Duct Cleaned

1. More Effective Cooling

When air ducts aren't properly cleaned, dirt and other debris can build up and prevent air from circulating. This leads to less effective results and a less comfortable home. Beat the heat more efficiently by having your air ducts cleaned regularly so no obstructions prevent them from circulating the air in your home. 

2. Fight Against Mold

Damp, dirty conditions in an air duct that is overdue for cleaning can create one of the biggest headaches that homeowners face: mold. Not only is this substance unsightly and foul-smelling, but it can also be a health risk to certain people who are vulnerable to its effects. Keep your property mold-free by having regular cleanings to prevent it from forming. 

3. Extend the Lifespan of the System

As with many other things, getting your HVAC until serviced regularly will help it last longer than it would without preventative maintenance. By getting regular cleanings for your air ducts, you'll prevent more extensive problems form happening, allowing you to get the most value form the unit as possible. 

4. Reduce Odors and Allergens

If you don't clean your air ducts regularly, you may smell odd, unpleasant odors coming from them. Anyone on the property with sensitivity to airborne allergens may also notice worsening symptoms if the air ducts aren't cleaned. Scheduling regular cleanings can help to alleviate both of these problems. 

5. Prevent Pest Infestations

The environment that unclean air ducts create is home to the conditions that common household pests such as insects or rodents thrive in. You're at a greater risk of a pest infestation occurring if you don't regularly clean your air ducts. Have service performed regularly to avoid this unpleasant issue. 

6. Breathe Healtheir Air

We spend a lot of time in our homes, so the air present inside has a big impact on our overall health and well-being. Scheduling regular cleanings for your air ducts will help to improve the air quality in your home, allowing you and everyone else on the premises to be as healthy as can be. 

Air Duct Cleaning in Omaha, NE

For all these reasons and more, we see that cleaning your air ducts regularly is essential. Do you need to have this service performed at your home? You can trust the professionals on our team to give your air ducts the thorough air quality in your home. 

Don't delay in getting this necessary service any longer. Contact SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest today and let us help you with your home's maintenance!

Helpful tips to prevent a house fire

9/19/2022 (Permalink)

House fires kill and injure many every year, while leaving many without their home, and valuable memories and possessions. Fire prevention is more important than many realize. 

Ways to Prevent House Fires

-Establish an emergency plan with fire routes. 

-Test all smoke alarms in your home.

-Teach your children fire safety. 

-Perform home maintenance consistently.

- Use candles with caution.

-Don't leave food cooking unattended.

- Store flammables safely.

- Know where the fire extinguishers are and how to use them. 

- Check all electrical cords in your home. If wires are frayed, throw it away.

Fire preparation is an important part of safeguarding your home and your family. Knowing not only how to prevent a fire but also how to escape it and get quick fire cleanup is essential.

Tips to get your business ready for the weather ahead

9/19/2022 (Permalink)

Summer is over, fall is here, and winter is right around the corner!

Summer is over, Fall is here, and Winter is right around the corner! While not every storm will cripple a business, it is still necessary to be prepared. Along with frigid temperatures and snow, winter can create problems with plumbing and operations. Therefore, it is essential to make a plan for the worst-case scenario.

1. Prepare Your Building-Make sure you check your plumbing and electricity regularly, but even more so when a winter storm is heading your way. Outside plumbing should be shut off and cleared to prevent freezing and possible burst pipes. Additionally, it may be a good idea to secure a generator if your business does not already have one. If your company does have a generator, it is a good investment to have it serviced before the winter weather sets in.
2. Plan for Ice and Snow-Any winter storm is going to bring issues of snow and ice. Being prepared for this situation means having a plow service on contract and ensuring that all walkways and driveways are cleared and salted. It is vital to do everything in your power to ensure that customers do not get hurt on the way into your business.
3. Focus on Inventory-Also, as storms have the potential to cause significant business interruption as well as property damage, it is vital to take an accurate inventory of all your assets. This inventory will be used for insurance claims if property damage results in an inventory loss. You should move stock to a secure and climate-controlled area, photographing and documenting everything. This will help streamline the process if a claim is made.
4. Make a List of Contacts-While taking inventory is necessary, it is also crucial to make a list of emergency contacts. This list should include all personnel who are essential to your operations. Additionally, you should include a disaster restoration specialists in the Council Bluffs area in case of an emergency.
   
   Winter storm season can produce significant threats to business operations. Massive snowfalls and ice storms can wreak havoc on you Omaha business, so it is essential to have a plan. 

Call SERVPRO of Council Bluffs today at (712)256-6616 and schedule one of our marketers to come to your business to help you with an Emergency Readiness Plan at no cost to you!

Faster to your Council Bluffs disaster

9/19/2022 (Permalink)

Flooding and water disasters don't wait for regular business hours, and neither do we!

Faster to your Council Bluffs water disaster!

Flooding and water disasters don't wait for regular business hours, and neither do we. SERVPRO of Council Bluffs is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for all emergency cleaning and restoration, including all holidays. 

Faster To Any Size Disaster

Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more.  SERVPRO of Council Bluffs arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – (712)256-6616

About SERVPRO of Council Bluffs

SERVPRO of Council Bluffs 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.

National Readiness Month

9/19/2022 (Permalink)

Don't wait until disaster strikes. Call SERVPRO of Council Bluffs at (7120256-6616 to discuss your ERP today!

Did you know September is National Readiness Month? Disasters can strike businesses big or small. Disasters can devastate a community in just a matter of moments.

Disasters caused by wind, fire, water, or weather can strike at anytime without warning. Business owners need to establish an Emergency Plan and practice it with all employees. 

Companies can find vital information regarding emergency plans at ready.gov/business. 

-Update all emergency contact information and give to all employees.

-Implement Emergency Policies and Procedures.

-Sign up for alerts and warnings in your area.

-Conduct Emergency drills with employees.

SERVPRO of Council Bluffs offers a NO COST Emergency Readiness Profile (ERP) to help with your emergency planning. 

Don't wait until disaster strikes. Call SERVPRO of Council Bluffs at (712)256-6616 to discuss your ERP today! 

Emergency Ready Profile

9/19/2022 (Permalink)

When fire or water damage strikes, you can either be ruined or ready.

As the sales and marketing representative for SERVPRO of Council Bluffs, one of my key targets each month is to help businesses be prepared in the event of a disaster.  One way we do that is through our Emergency Ready Profile program. 

The Emergency Ready Profile, or ERP, is a free service provided by SERVPRO in which we help area businesses with such things as locating their emergency shut offs for their electrical systems, water, and gas.  We also compile information on their key contacts in the event of any emergency so the business is prepared and can calmly work through the situation.  Since this is a free service, there are no contracts to sign and no obligations to purchase any products.  Our only request is, if your business does suffer from a disaster to give us an opportunity to make it "Like it never even happened".

The ERP also contains tips and suggestions that the business can do before help arrives and provides somewhat of a roadmap helping them get back into their business more quickly and ultimately minimizing the interruption. 

One example where we had the opportunity to truly see the power of the plan in action was last February.  A local business suffered a frozen pipe on the third story of their building reaching numerous rooms within the facility.  With this plan, the building contact knew exactly who to call and within hours our team was on site helping them to restore function to nearly 50% of the rooms affected by the end of day 1.  The other rooms required more drying time, but they were able to recover a fair amount of potential lost income by simply having a plan in place and knowing what to do prior to help arriving. 

The best part of the ERP process is the amount of work the business owner or manager must do to get this set up is minimal.  A sales and marketing representative will come to your business and take the necessary photos and information, then finish putting the document together at the office.  This process usually only takes 30 minutes or less and the business owner can proof and edit the document as often as they would like.  When approved, the business will receive both a hard copy and a digital copy through our ERP app. 

For more questions or to set up an Emergency Ready Profile for your business, call SERVPRO of Council Bluffs at 402-835-5985.