5 Tips to Beat Humidity (bonus tip!)

8/1/2023 (Permalink)

As the summer sun continues to heat up, so does the unwelcome presence of humidity. It's that sticky, oppressive feeling that seems to cling to your skin and sap your energy. Whether you live in a humid climate or are experiencing a temporary spike in moisture, dealing with humidity can be a daunting challenge. We'll explore some effective strategies to beat the humidity and enjoy a more comfortable environment.

1. Air Conditioning: Your best ally is air conditioning. Investing in a high-quality AC unit will not only cool your surroundings but also help regulate humidity levels indoors. Opt for a unit with a dehumidification feature to remove excess moisture from the air, ensuring a refreshing and pleasant atmosphere.

2. Ventilation: Proper ventilation is essential in combating humidity especially if you don't have A/C. Ensure your home is well-ventilated by using exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens to expel humid air outside. Additionally, open windows and doors during cooler hours to allow fresh air to circulate, reducing indoor humidity levels.
3. Dehumidifiers: A dehumidifier is a powerful tool in the battle against excessive moisture. It efficiently removes water vapor from the air, making your living spaces more comfortable and less prone to mold and mildew growth. Place the dehumidifier in areas with the highest humidity, such as basements or laundry rooms, to optimize its effectiveness.

4. Houseplants: Some houseplants can help lower humidity levels. Plants like Boston Fern, Spider Plant, and Aloe Vera absorb moisture from the air, acting as natural dehumidifiers. Plus, they add a touch of greenery and beauty to your home!
5. Seal Leaks: Check your home for any leaks or gaps that might be allowing moisture to enter. Repairing these leaks will not only improve humidity levels but also save on energy costs by preventing cool air from escaping.

6. Avoid Heat-Generating Activities: Humidity tends to rise with activities that generate heat, such as cooking, showering, or using certain electronics. To keep humidity at bay, try to perform these activities during cooler times of the day or use exhaust fans to vent the moist air outside.

By implementing these practical strategies, you can conquer the dampness and enjoy a more comfortable living space. Create an environment where humidity is kept at bay, allowing you to embrace the summer months with renewed vigor and ease. So, beat the humidity, and make the most of the season ahead!

7 Tips to Survive Hot Summer Days

7/3/2023 (Permalink)

As the summer sun blazes, it's essential to have strategies to stay cool and comfortable during the scorching heat. Don't let the rising temperatures drain your energy or spoil your fun. Here are 7 practical tips to help you survive the summer heat and make the most of the season.

1. Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, and opt for hydrating foods like fruits and vegetables. Avoid excessive caffeine or alcohol consumption on especially hot days as they can dehydrate your body.

2. Dress smart: Choose loose, light-colored, and breathable clothing made from natural fibers such as cotton or linen. This allows air to circulate and helps sweat evaporate, keeping your body cooler.

3. Find shade: When outdoors, take advantage of shade from trees, umbrellas, or canopies. Avoid direct sunlight during the hottest hours (usually between 10 am and 4 pm) and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late evening when the temperature is lower.

4. Use sunscreen: Protect your skin from harmful UV rays by applying sunscreen with a high SPF before heading outdoors. Sunburn not only causes discomfort but also raises your body temperature.

5. Keep your living space cool: Close curtains or blinds during the day to block out sunlight and keep your home cooler. Use fans or air conditioning to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature.

6. Take cool showers or baths: Refresh yourself with cool showers or baths to lower your body temperature. You can also use a damp cloth to wipe your face, neck, and pulse points for instant relief.

7. Plan indoor activities: If the heat becomes unbearable, seek refuge in air-conditioned spaces like shopping malls, museums, or libraries. Engage in indoor activities such as reading, watching movies, or pursuing a hobby to beat the heat.

Surviving the summer heat is all about being proactive and mindful of your body's needs. By following these tips, you can stay cool, hydrated, and comfortable throughout the scorching summer months. Stay cool and enjoy the sunny days ahead!

5 Things Facility Managers Need to Know About Disasters

4/27/2023 (Permalink)

Facility managers play a critical role in disaster preparedness and response. How can SERVPRO help?

Facility managers play a critical role in disaster preparedness and response. From natural disasters like hurricanes and floods to human-caused emergencies like fires and terrorist attacks, facility managers must be prepared to handle a wide range of scenarios. Here are five things facility managers need to know about disasters:

1. Have a disaster preparedness plan: Facility managers should have a comprehensive disaster preparedness plan in place that includes evacuation procedures, communication protocols, and emergency supplies. This plan should be regularly reviewed and updated as needed.

2. Understand the risks: Facility managers should be aware of the types of disasters that are most likely to affect their facility and take appropriate measures to mitigate those risks. For example, if the facility is located in an area prone to flooding, managers should ensure that the building is elevated or protected by flood barriers.

3. Coordinate with emergency responders: Facility managers should establish relationships with local emergency responders, including police, fire, and medical services. This will help ensure a coordinated response in the event of an emergency.

4. Train staff: All staff members should be trained in emergency procedures, including evacuation routes and procedures, first aid, and the use of emergency equipment. Regular drills should be conducted to ensure that everyone is prepared.

5. Maintain critical systems: Facility managers should ensure that critical systems such as fire alarms, sprinklers, and backup generators are properly maintained and tested regularly. This will help ensure that these systems function properly when they are needed most.

Facility managers can rely on SERVPRO® to assist them in the event of a disaster. SERVPRO® of Downey offers 24/7 emergency response. Our trained professionals use the latest equipment and techniques to restore the facility to its pre-disaster condition, minimizing downtime and disruption. We offer a range of other services, including mold remediation, biohazard cleanup, and HVAC and duct cleaning. SERVPRO® can also provide facility managers with disaster preparedness resources and training. Facility managers can have peace of mind knowing that they have a reliable and experienced partner to help them navigate the challenges of disaster recovery.

In conclusion, disasters can happen at any time, and facility managers play a critical role in preparing for and responding to these events. By having a disaster preparedness plan, understanding the risks, coordinating with emergency responders, training staff, and maintaining critical systems, facility managers can help keep their facility and its occupants safe during an emergency.

The Los Angeles Tornado of 2023

4/18/2023 (Permalink)

Damaged roof from a business affected by the Tornado

As a restoration company, we're no strangers to natural disasters. From floods to fires, we've seen it all. However, just last month, a new threat emerged in an unexpected place: a tornado in Los Angeles.

On March 22nd, 2023, a tornado touched down in Montebello Los Angeles. The National Weather Service (NWS) classified the tornado as an EF-1 with peak winds of 110 mph. This event caught many residents & businesses off guard, as tornadoes are relatively rare in Southern California since the last tornado in the area was in 1983. But the damage was significant, with 17 businesses damaged and 1 injury reported. The area was a true tornado zone, with debris, glass, and water scattered throughout the blocks.

SERVPRO® was quick to respond to the disaster. Our team of professionals worked around the clock to assist a business owner in the aftermath of the tornado. From debris removal to water damage restoration, we provided comprehensive services to help those affected get back on their feet and resume business as soon as possible.

This event serves as a reminder that natural disasters can strike at any time and in unexpected places. It's essential to have a plan in place to protect yourself and your property. That includes having emergency supplies on hand, keeping important documents in a safe place, and knowing how to reach out for assistance.

At SERVPRO of Downey, we're proud to serve our community in times of need. If you've been affected by a natural disaster like the Los Angeles tornado, don't hesitate to reach out to us for assistance. We're here to help you through any storm.

3 Steps to Prevent Water Damage While on Vacation

7/28/2022 (Permalink)

Can anything be done to prevent such a disaster?

It's a nightmare scenario... coming home from vacation to discover your house is flooded from water damage. This scenario is all too common for homeowners, in fact, the Insurance Institutereports that water damage claims are the second most common claim. It's a disastrous problem. Can anything be done to prevent such a disaster? Here are 3 steps to prevent water damage while on vacation.

1. Check Your Home | Before you leave, go and inspect areas where leaks could occur. Pipes in the kitchen and bathroom are especially important. Make sure there are no cracks or small leaks in the pipes. Check to make sure all pipes are secure.
2. Clear Gutters & Downspouts | Clear away any blockages that could allow water to rest. Resting water in your gutter near your roof could cause water to leak through the roof.
3. Shut Off Water Valve | When in doubt, turn your water valve off. This will prevent water from circulating in your pipes. If you live in an area with freezing temperatures, clear the pipes after you turn the water off to prevent the pipes from bursting.

A little preparation goes a long way in preventing a big expensive disaster. Nobody wants to return home from vacation to deal with a water damage. 

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When a disaster strikes, SERVPRO® is here to help. Call SERVPRO® of Downey for your disaster recovery needs. From Fire and  Water Damage to sanitization, we are there to assist you. Call us at: (562) 392-3007

Is Your Hotel Prepared?

6/6/2022 (Permalink)

Does your hotel have a preparedness plan?

Hotel Properties require unique care and attention to operate smoothly. Operators and managers put forth great effort to fill rooms and make sure guests feel comfortable, safe, and accommodated. What happens when something goes wrong?

Top 4 Hotel Risks

1. Coronavirus | Possible exposure to COVID-19 can affect staff & guests. This could mean fewer employees and fewer rooms filled.
2. Bio-hazards | These bio-hazards can include bodily fluids such as blood, vomit, and feces. Such hazards can pose a severe threat to the health & safety of guests and staff.
3. Water Damage | Hotels have a lot of pipes! More pipes mean more water that can cause damage not only to one but multiple rooms or floors.
4. Fire Damage | Fire & smoke damage can cause structure and content damage. Even if the fire was in a contained area, smoke and odor can travel to create a further disturbance.

Did You Know? According to a 2019 survey, "the average hotel in the U.S. covers approximately 48,000 square feet with 115 rooms of 325 square feet and an ensuite bathroom each."

Mitigate the Risks At Your Hotel

• Janitorial Team - No doubt your janitorial staff is already hard at work to provide a safe and healthy environment for the guests and staff. They have likely increased cleaning protocols, added additional hand sanitizing stations, and use microfiber technology to leave all surfaces clean.
• Maintenance Team - Your maintenance team is fast to address backed-up toilets, leaky faucets, kitchen equipment, & HVAC systems. Your maintenance team is always there to save the day!

But is your hotel prepared for... bio-hazards? Are there policies in place that prevents your staff from addressing these areas? Is your staff trained in using electrostatic sprayers or placing Air Movers? When manpower runs out and the job becomes too big, who does your team turn to?

• SERVPRO Team - Our professionals here at SERVPRO are here to help and complement your team. We provide manpower, technology, resources, & expertise. We know how important is to get rooms filled and keep them filled. We also know how important discretion is while performing services. 

SERVPRO® has serviced thousands of hotels, providing unique solutions for these facilities 24/7. When a disaster strikes, SERVPRO® is here to help. Call SERVPRO® of Downey for your disaster recovery needs. From Fire and Water Damage to sanitization, we are there to assist you. Call us at: (562) 392-3007  

Why Do Fire Fighters Open the Roof?

4/14/2022 (Permalink)

Vertical Ventilation opens up the roof, allowing these toxic gases and smoke to be removed from the property.

If your property has experienced a large fire, you may have noticed the firefighters cut a hole in your roof. You may wonder, "why would they cause this type of damage to a person's property?" Why do firefighters open the roof during a fire?

Vertical Ventilation

This tactic is called Vertical Ventilation and is a common essential firefighting tactic. The science behind the tactic involves the smoke and how fire travels. 

As a fire burns, toxic gases & smoke begin to collect and travel UP! This collection of smoke and gas can cause two things to happen, 1) Backdraft, and/or 2) Flashover.

• Backdraft is when the air combines with the unburned fuel, rapid ignition can occur with devastating force. - USFA FEMA 
• Flashover is a thermally-driven event during which every combustible surface exposed to thermal radiation in a compartment or enclosed space rapidly and simultaneously ignites. - USFA FEMA

A Flashover or Backdraft can cause massive amounts of damage to the property and possibly threaten the lives of the firefighters. That's where Vertical Ventilation comes in.

Vertical Ventilation opens up the roof, allowing these toxic gases and smoke to be removed from the property. This tactic can save a property and neighboring properties from further fire damage. This tactic is not random, but an organized and effective way to preserve and save a property.

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When a disaster strikes, SERVPRO® is here to help. Call SERVPRO® of Downey for your disaster recovery needs. From Fire and  Water Damage to sanitization, we are there to assist you. Call us at: (562) 392-3007

3 Things You Should Know About Mitigation Companies

4/8/2022 (Permalink)

Our SIU department has collected the following data throughout its operation, we thought we'd share this important data to keep customers informed about other mitigation companies.

Our Special Investigation Unit (SIU) has performed over 1500 investigations for Insurance Carriers, Property Managers, Cities, etc, we have aggregated & analyzed the data from the last couple of years.

Here Are 3 Things All Customers Should Know:

1. Over 90% of the time the customer was OVERCHARGED an average of 40-60%.

2. Industry standard for drying is 3-5 days (per IICRC). In most cases, mitigation companies are charging for 10 days or longer. Have you ever asked them “Why”?

3. 99% of the time mitigation companies cut the drywall, have you ever asked "Why"? In many instances, IICRC guidelines recommend “in-place drying” since it is safe and reduces cost.

Mitigation and/or restoration companies stand to make a lot less money on each project. However, the benefits to you are reduced: Cost(s), Business Interruption, and Overall Collateral Spend.

Accidents happen, but that doesn’t mean you have to be a victim! - If you feel you have been overcharged, send us an old estimate and we’ll do a ‘quick review’ for free. Maybe you are one of the lucky 10%.

SERVPRO® of Downey is here to help you through this process, to keep you informed, and to make sure you're getting the best service possible.

For appointment or consultation information, call SERVPRO® of Downey for your disaster recovery needs. From Fire and  Water Damage to sanitization, we are there to assist you. Call us at: (562) 392-3007

Will Mold Go Away On Its Own?

4/5/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has specialized in mold removal for over 50 years

No one wants to find mold growing in their home. However, if you discover any type of mold in your house, it's not the end of the world, there are things that can be done to either reduce, or remove it completely, and give you back your peace of mind. You may be wondering, 'If I do nothing will the mold go away on its own?' Consider how mold behaves and how to get rid of it.

Common Causes

Mold can be found in many places around your home; walls, cabinets, bathrooms, even your carpet! Mold will normally only thrive in dark and moist environments. Some of the common causes include but are not limited to:

• Plumbing Leaks
• Roof Leaks
• Condensation
• Humidity
• Flooding
• Spills
• Etc.

DIY

While there are many DIY solutions to dealing with mold, most commonly using bleach, those aren't usually effective. This is especially true on porous surfaces, where mold is typically found, as it spreads deep into the material where the cleaning solution cant reach. However, your safest bet is to call a professional who is certified and experienced in mold cleanup.

Nothing

If you do nothing but remove the factors that encourage mold growth, such as moisture and humidity, you should be able to slow and stop its growth. However, this won’t remove the mold. The spores will still be there, and as soon as moisture is reintroduced they will come back at full strength.

Remediation

The best way to ensure mold is fully gone is to call a mold remediation specialist. SERVPRO has specialized in mold removal services for over 55 years. We have a qualified, experienced team of professionals that have the right equipment and techniques to safely and thoroughly remove mold from your house. We can show up any time of day or night, address the severity of the mold growth, and create a plan to get rid of it with as few disruptions to your life as possible. 

SERVPRO® of Downey, Montebello, Compton, and Vernon are your Mold Professionals. Call us to schedule an appointment, at (562) 392-3007

Storm Tips Property Managers Need to Know

3/21/2022 (Permalink)

Without the proper precautions, occupants can face safety risks and further damage.

Property Managers need to protect their properties from storm damage. Without the proper precautions, occupants can face safety risks and further damage. Here are 4 Storm Tips that property managers can follow to protect their properties.

1. Doors & Windows

Storms involve wind and water. These elements can weaken doors and windows with poor sealant or broken tracks. Make sure the doors & windows close properly, seal tightly, and aren't cracked or broken.

2. Gutters & Drains

Gutters & drains can clog and become heavily obstructed with debris. These areas can overflow on the roof or build up near the property which can weaken the building or over time begin to leak into the property.

3. Trees & Foliage 

Overgrown trees & hanging branches can fall during a storm. This can result in damage to the property or electrical & cable wires. Trimming back trees and cleaning debris helps limit the possibility of fallen trees or branches.

4. Outdoor Furniture & Items

Wind can turn building items such as outdoor furniture, bbq's, unsecured mailboxes, & flags into flying projectiles. These items can damage your property or nearby cars. Removing or securing these items when a heavy storm is near is likely to save you damage costs.

Storm Preparedness is essential for property managers. Storms can have little warning in some instances. Develop a regular schedule to maintain your building during storm season. 

When a disaster strikes, SERVPRO® is here to help. Call SERVPRO® of Downey for your disaster recovery needs. From Fire and  Water Damage to sanitization, we are there to assist you. Call us at: (562) 392-3007