Storm Damage

5/26/2022 (Permalink)

It's safe to say that most understand that hurricanes, tropical storms, tropical depressions, and tornadoes are dangerous weather events common in our area. However, unless you live near the Gulf Coast and have experienced these weather events, you may not realize that serious storms like hurricanes and tropical storms are often accompanied by tornadoes. Unfortunately, it is not only the wind damage from the hurricane or tropical storm that requires a safety plan, but also the very real threat of tornadoes. 

Ready.gov is a wonderful resource for identifying ways that you can prepare for a tornado, stay safe during a tornado, and stay safe after a tornado.

Like all serious storms, in preparing for a tornado, it is important to know your area's risk, to know the signs of a tornado, and to heed local warnings. Unfortunately, our risk is very high like most of the Southeast. This is why making a plan for your family and pet(s) before the damage is so important. Having a physical shelter whether that be a dedicated storm shelter ideally or a small, windowless room within the interior of the home on the lowest level and preparing for the potential for long term sheltering in place can have life-saving consequences.

After the Storm

Safety is still a priority after the storm. Damaged electrical or structural support is a very real threat if you experienced damage. We suggest that you look to Ready.gov for a list of ways you can stay safe following a tornado. Once all is clear, contact your locally owned restoration contractor SERVPRO of Hattiesburg: 601-544-0512. As members of your community, we are always Here to Help.

Commercial Restoration

4/11/2022 (Permalink)

Here to Help!

One of our clients recently called us regarding a flooded auditorium. Knowing the size of the auditorium, we knew that specialty drying techniques would be required in order to restore the affected area to preloss condition. 

A determining factor in the choosing the amount and type of dehumidification required for a space is the volume of the space. While the tenting certainly looks impressive, the damage was not actually large enough to necessitate a desiccant dehumidifier, but due to the high ceilings, it did require that the volume of the space be reduced so that the equipment could run more efficiently, increasing the rate of evaporation and through dehumidification removing the moisture from the air. Tenting is not always feasible due to a variety of factors, but it is certainly effective in specialty drying situations such as that of an auditorium. 

Specialty Drying Needed?

If you have a case that is beyond the typical approach, call SERVPRO of Hattiesburg. We recognize that not all mitigation projects are the same, and our team of experts is trained to assess your facility's individual needs. We're available 24/7/365. Call 601-544-0512 or submit a customer inquiry through our website here.

Kitchen Fire Damage

4/11/2022 (Permalink)

Even small house fires can cause damage. From grease to odor, many people may not realize that even small fires can cause soot stains on their walls and leave difficult to remove greasy residue on the walls, floor, and ceiling.

So, what should you do if you have a fire damage? Getting help as soon as possible is the best way to help reduce overall costs and additional repairs. SERVPRO of Hattiesburg and our team of trained professionals will respond to your home or business as soon as we receive your call. 

No Job is Too Big or Too Small

Many don't realize that even smaller fires make need professional help remediating. Even if the home does not require reconstruction such as painting, flooring replacement, or other repairs, cleaning and deodorization may be required to remove soot stains, grease stains, and/or odor. Even small cooking fires can leave greasy soot on your walls, leave lingering malodor, and ashes can fall on your carpet, rugs, and upholstered furniture.

Call SERVPRO of Hattiesburg

Our team of professionals are experts in remediating fire and smoke damaged property and contents. We have been trained and certified to help restore after fire and smoke damage to the structure and contents through the IICRC. The IICRC is the standard in the restoration industry. Choosing a company that is both firm certified with technicians who are individually certified ensures you are working with professionals who truly know what they’re doing. Even after small damages our team can help by using cleaning agents designed to break down acidic soot residue and grease, utilize odor-reducing equipment, such as hydroxyl generators and thermal foggers, and professionally clean your carpet, rugs, and upholstery to reduce malodors and remove soot.

Here at SERVPRO of Hattiesburg, we have access to advanced technology designed to remediate the damages inside of your home. Using state of the art equipment and techniques, you can trust our team to help get your life back to normal after a fire.

Choosing a Restoration Vendor to Handle Your Personal Property

3/28/2022 (Permalink)

During the move out process, our team will pack your items with care before they are moved into an offsite facility for cleaning and storage.

House fires or large water leaks can be devastating. There's quite a bit more that goes into restoring the property back to preloss condition, or making it "Like it never even happened," than simply choosing a contractor.

Choosing a Restoration Vendor

Sometimes, some or all of the personal property must be packed and moved out of the home for storage and cleaning in order to perform the demo, cleaning, and rebuild of structure. By choosing SERVPRO of Hattiesburg, you can rest assured that your personal property will be treated with the utmost care while it is in our hands. We have a wide variety of certifications from the IICRC that will ensure your personal property is cared for and restored using state of the art equipment, tools, and methods. While the repairs are being completed, our team will complete your content restoration so that your items are ready to be delivered once the repairs are complete. If the contents restoration is completed before the repairs are complete, we will store the personal property at our facility until you are ready to be moved back.

If you experience an unexpected disaster, we are here to help. Contact our office via phone (601)544-0512 or submit an inquiry through our website.

Tornado Damage... What Now?

3/28/2022 (Permalink)

Preparing Before the Storm

Choosing a restoration vendor to mitigate and rebuild after storm damage can be one of the most important decisions that you make when it comes to the recovery of your property. 

We often receive questions about how to prepare for tropical storms, hurricanes, and tornadoes in order to make the restoration process as seamless and easy as possible. 

While each facility is different, and each storm for that matter, there are two tips that apply in all circumstances.

TIPS

1. Choose your restoration vendor ahead of time.
   • Resources are always limited after a hurricane, tornado, or major disaster. By choosing your vendor ahead of time, you give your vendor the opportunity to allocate resources for your building(s) in the event of a damage. 
2. Allow your vendor to discuss the restoration process with key decision makers.
   • Educating your staff or other decision makers beforehand will provide them with confidence and knowledge, and setup realistic expectations of the standards and practices of the insurance restoration process following a large loss. A hurricane is unlikely to happen every year, and with staff changes, it would be a good practice to invite your vendor to briefly present once a year in order to keep the current board educated and to go over any changes that may come up.

CHOOSE SERVPRO of Hattiesburg

As leaders in the storm and water damage industry, we have advanced training and expertise as well as a tremendous amount of hands-on experience. We are a local company with national resources, and have access to the resources and personnel of 1,700 franchise partners to handle major storms and catastrophic disasters. If your building or facility has storm damage, choose SERVPRO of Hattiesburg: (601)544-0512.

Common Causes of Fire Damage

2/18/2022 (Permalink)

Home electrical fires account for 51,000 fires each year, and an estimated $1.3 billion in property damage. Learn these common causes of fire damage to prevent fire damage in your home or business:

Many electrical fires are caused by faulty electrical outlets or outdated appliances. Frayed appliance cords can also lead to electrical fires.  Under no circumstances should you ever remove the ground plug from an appliance cord. These appliance cords are only to be used with outlets that can handle the extra amount of electricity.

Another cause of electrical fires is the misuse of extension cords. Extension cords are only to be used on a temporary basis and not as permanent wiring. Extension cords can overheat and cause fires when not used properly. Never should you run extension cords through walls and ceilings, and never use nails or staples to hold an extension cord in place.

Space heaters are also a major cause of electrical fires. Space heaters should always be kept on a flat, level surface to prevent being turned over. These portable heaters are often placed too close to curtains, beds, and other combustible surfaces. Remember to always keep space heaters at least three feet from items that can burn. 

Commercial Cleaning Services

1/25/2022 (Permalink)

Whether you need cleaning for a commercial office or require industrial cleaning services, your local SERVPRO of Hattiesburg can help. You don’t have time to worry about the common wear and tear that gradually soils your office or warehouse. When grime, odor, and moisture challenges go beyond the scope of your regular janitorial staff, call in your local SERVPRO of Hattiesburg team. Whether it’s removing an odor problem or deep cleaning flooring or carpets, you can rely on SERVPRO of Hattiesburg Professionals to make your workspace or warehouse look its very best.

SERVPRO of Hattiesburg will get the job done right and get it done quickly, because the SERVPRO Advantage includes these benefits:

• Award-winning training
• Over 40 years’ experience in the industry
• More than 100 exclusive cleaning products

Have Questions? Call Today 601-544-0512 or 228-467-4450

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned

Our Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned defensive cleaning program gives your business a way forward to provide your employees and customers ongoing safety as you operate after the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Specialty Cleaning Services

SERVPRO of Hattiesburg offer cleaning services ranging from cleaning restaurant hoods to removing biohazard contaminants. They have the specialized training and products to get your property back to business. Their cleaning services include the following:

• Air Ducts and HVAC
• Biohazard
• Carpet and Upholstery
• Ceilings, Floors, and Walls
• Document Restoration
• Drapes and Blinds
• Odor Removal
• Sewage
• Trauma and Crime Scene
• Vandalism

What is SERVPRO of Hattiesburg's "Standard of Care"?

1/25/2022 (Permalink)

Commercial Restoration can be a very specific and detail oriented business. All commercial projects com loaded with many different shifting and complicated variables like source of water, Affected building materials, date of water intrusion, water category and class as well as the type of business that you are dealing with.  Following the guidelines for the proper industry Standard of Care provides a project template key metrics for an optimal outcome for our commercial water damage restoration customers. SERVPRO of Hattiesburg is committed to following and documenting the proper Standard of Care throughout the entire commercial water damage restoration project. At SERVPRO we will get your property back in order "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO Standard for “Standard of Care”

The standard of care in the Commercial Restoration industry is pretty easy to find through the IICRC. The Standard of Care in Commercial Water Damage (S550) is a procedural industry standard for performing water damage restoration in commercial, industrial institutional, and complex residential structures, systems and furniture, fixtures and equipment. The Standard of Care is determined and updated by the restoration industry governing body, the IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning Restoration Certification)

Why is Water Damage Restoration Standard of Care Important?

Following the Standard of Care matters on commercial water damage restoration projects because SERVPRO of Hattiesburg is committed to providing the industry’s optimal efficiency and outcome for every customer in every circumstance. Choosing SERVPRO of Hattiesburg as your restoration contractor ensures that your loss will be mitigated according to the highest industry standards, saving you time and money against recurring or secondary loss such as structural instability or microbial growth. Following the Standard of Care for commercial water damage restoration gets you back in business and protects your structure, customers, employees, and reputation.

Furthermore, should the loss be an insurance claim, the carrier will expect and require adherence to the Standard of Care in order to consider the claim.  Accurate documentation includes detailed photographs of the loss and the progress, the Advanced Record of Drying Conditions Report, Inspection Report (updated daily during the drying period).

Standard of Care  – a professional company will provide documentation and proof of work.

As a valued commercial ERP (Emergency Response Program) customer, you are presented with your Standard of Care Packet following the successful mitigation of the loss. Your representative will review this packet with you in a debriefing conversation. The document is for your records in case a question arises or should you decide to sell the property. The Standard of Care Restoration Packet includes photographs of the loss, the drying documents, the work authorization, and any other documents specific to your loss and industry.

Standard of Care – Your Goal is Our Goal

The Standard of Care in commercial water damage restoration is sophisticated and can be complicated to execute successfully, but choosing SERVPRO of Hattiesburg for your commercial water loss makes it easy for you. You call us… we take care of the details for you.

For more information on our Commercial Water Damage services please contact SERVPRO of Hattiesburg at 601-544-0512 or 228-467-4450, or contact us to get started on an Emergency Response Plan for your business.

Top Causes of Fires

1/25/2022 (Permalink)

Home and business fires can be devastating. The smoke and resulting fire damage can destroy not only you building and personal property, but can also cause injury or even death. It's important to practice safety and be aware of how fires occur so that we can avoid them at all costs. The causes of fires can vary regionally and even seasonally, but their impact is the same. We won't go into these subsets today, but we will discuss the most common causes that affect the US on a national level. So, what are the most common causes of home fires?

According to the NFPA, the top causes of fires are the following:

1. Cooking
   1. The NFPA writes, "Cooking was the leading cause of reported home fires and home fire injuries in 2015-2019 and the second leading cause of home fire deaths. Cooking caused 49 percent of reported home fires, 20 percent of reported home fire deaths, and 42 percent of home fire injuries. In 2019, Thanksgiving was the peak day for home cooking fires, followed by Christmas Day and Christmas Eve." Wow!
2. Heating
   1. Heating is the second leading cause of home fires. In addition to the devastating damage, fires caused by heating result in an average of $1.1 billion in direct property damage each year. As we approach winter, it's important to practice safety and educate yourself as well as your family on proper safety protocols with heating, especially space heaters.
3. Electrical
   1. Electrical fires are most commonly  caused by issues with electrical outlets. It's important to contact a qualified electrician if you experience any of the following:
      1. Frequent problems blowing tripping breakers
      2. A static or tingling feeling when you touch an electrical appliance
      3. Discolored or warm wall outlet or item that has been plugged into a wall outlet
      4. A burning or rubbery smell
      5. Flickering or dimming lights
      6. Sparks or smoking from an outlet
4. Smoking
   1. While smoking accounts for the smallest percentage of home fires, it accounts for over 1/5th of home fire related deaths. If you or a family member smokes, remember that it's best to smoke outside! This goes for e-cigarettes, too, which also fall into this category.
5. Candles
   1. When we receive fire and smoke related calls caused by candles, it's most often because the caller forgot to extinguish before going to bed or leaving the home. In the hustle and bustle of the holidays, it can be easy to forget something like this! According to the NFPA, more fires caused by candles are reported on Christmas Day than any other day of the year. If you know you will be leaving your home, put your candle in an open place on your counter next to your keys so that you can remember to extinguish the flame before leaving the house. It's also helpful to have someone help you remember or setting a reminder before you light it  if you are prone to forgetting. And, for the best tip of all, if the day is hectic like for many on Christmas, just wait to light it once you can enjoy it. 

We hope this information serves you and that you can use it to educate yourself as well as your loved ones. 

If you experience property damage as a result of a fire, SERVPRO of Hattiesburg is here to help. We are available 24/7/365 and can be reached by phone 601-544-0512 or 228-467-4450 or email marketing@SERVPRObaldwincounty.com. Stay safe!

Fire Restoration Process

1/25/2022 (Permalink)

The first 24 to 48 hours after fire damage are critical for a quick recovery. An effective response that stabilizes the facility ensures the recovery of as much property as possible. Soot and smoke damage which can be very acidic increases the breakdown and building materials and personal property. To add to this, fires are most frequently extinguished with water and dry chemicals, which while effective in putting out the fire, often creates additional damage. Also, you cannot forget about the odor that is left behind. While the odor will vary depending on the both the cause and degree of damage, it is always a significant factor. The smoke odor left behind is toxic. In addition to the acidic nature of soot and smoke, they contain known carcinogens. The odor left behind after a fire may increase if the odor is not neutralized and deodorized properly and immediately. 

While all damages are unique, the fire damage restoration process is best if begun immediately following the fire. By quickly mitigating damage and providing smoke damage cleanup and water restoration after the damage first occurs, more of the property is able to be restored versus replaced.  In addition to the building damage, the personal property must also be taken into account. Our team will develop a plan to restore the personal property by evaluating several factors such as replacement cost vs. restoration cost, determining if the item is truly salvageable, loss of value or use, and sentimental value. 

SERVPRO of Hattiesburg specializes in full service fire damage restoration. These services can include: emergency board-up, demolition, smoke and soot removal, deodorization and cleaning, contents/claim inventory service, contents cleaning, and reconstruction.

Available 24/7/365: 601-544-0512 or 228-467-4450

Are You Prepared for a Disaster?

1/20/2022 (Permalink)

Living on the Gulf Coast, we are reminded of the importance of having a disaster or emergency recovery plan every hurricane season. Especially, for your business.

Too often, we do not take the steps to become truly disaster ready until it is too late. But, rest assured, our team at SERVPRO of Hattiesburg can help you with this. To prepare your business, we will provide you with an ERP or emergency ready profile. One of the key benefits in setting up an ERP with our team is having all of your relevant and essential property information in one place. It can even include photos or directions that will help emergency responders or employees locate significant items like shutoffs or building access points.

Disasters are a natural part of life so it makes sense to plan for them. Whether it’s an unprecedented pandemic, a hurricane, or a tropical storm, in this region, anything can happen. 

Our team is Here to Help you become disaster ready! To set up your free Emergency Ready Profile, call our office today to speak to one of our representatives and ensure that your business is "Ready for whatever happens". Call us today at 601-544-0512 or 228-467-4450

SERVPROXIDE Disinfects and Sanitizes!

1/20/2022 (Permalink)

One of our products SERVPROXIDE^TM is our proprietary hospital-grade disinfectant registered with the EPA. It is a stabilized chlorine dioxide-based antimicrobial which carries the EPA’s lowest toxicity rating. The product itself doesn’t carry any fragrances other than a mild cleaning odor which dissipates quickly making it a great product for people with chemical or odor sensitivities. There are many different applications for SERVPROXIDE^TM. It can eliminate odors through disinfecting and oxidation rather than just covering them up. That can be done by applying the product directly with towels or through misting or spraying which is often used when we clean HVAC systems. It has even been utilized in electrostatic spraying for an even application on surfaces inside buildings. In fact, SERVPROXIDE^TM is the disinfectant we have used when we have been asked to clean and disinfect COVID-19 in homes and businesses here in Wichita. The CDC recommends the usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar types of organisms to COVID-19 and SERVPROXIDE has EPA-approved claims against things like Feline coronavirus, Canine coronavirus, staphylococcus, E.coli, Salmonella, Rotavirus, and Swine flu. When you use SERVPRO, you can have rest at ease knowing that our team is using hospital-grade disinfectant registered with the EPA. Our chemists are even able to advise us in unorthodox situations to utilize our suite of cleaning products to clean and deodorize even the strongest and strangest combination of smells and soils.

Thermal Imaging

1/20/2022 (Permalink)

Thermal imaging was first developed for military use during the Korean War.  This kind of imaging uses temperature to distinguish hot and cold temperatures through walls and long distances.  It is used by firefighters to see through smoke and find people; It is also used by law enforcement to locate suspects and handle search and rescue efforts.  But those aren’t the only ways it can be effective or helpful. 

How We Use Thermal Imaging

We use it to locate water trapped within walls or floors.  Water damage can create long term issues if not detected soon enough.  That’s why it is important to catch the source of the water and correct the problem and dry out any affected materials before it is too late.  Thermal imaging may be the solution before one has to take a destructive approach.  Although, thermal imaging cannon “see” water, it can detect differences in temperature that could indicate a location to test.  This is just one of the reasons why SERVPRO of Hattiesburg can be of service to you.  If you suspect water damage, give us a call at 601-544-0512 or 228-467-4450

Trauma and Crime Scene Cleanup

1/20/2022 (Permalink)

After the police have finished processing a crime or accident scene, the cleaning and restoration process can begin. Many times, crime and accident scenes have blood and other biohazard contaminants that pose a serious health risk. SERVPRO of Hattiesburg will respond immediately and has the specialized training, protective equipment, and experience to safely clean trauma and crime scenes.

Our technicians follow OSHA and EPA protocols to help transform an unsafe environment back into a clean, safe home or business. Our first focus is always safety, since crime or accident scenes may involve bloodborne pathogens, harmful chemicals, and other dangers. We will always treat your property and the people involved with the greatest empathy and respect in the face of trying circumstances.

Crime Scene and Trauma Cleaning Services

• Fingerprint powder and evidence-gathering chemicals
• Tear gas and pepper spray residues
• Fire extinguisher residue
• Blood, bodily fluids, and tissue remnants

Common Trauma and Crime Scene Scenarios

Crime Scene Residues

From fingerprint powder and evidence-gathering chemicals to tear gas and pepper spray residues, we can clean and restore your property after a crime scene investigation.

Bloodborne Pathogens

We remove and dispose of bodily fluids, tissue and other potentially pathogenic substances resulting from accident, trauma, crime or death. Our trained Professionals clean, disinfect and deodorize the structure.

Methamphetamine Labs

Many of the chemicals used in the production of illegal drugs such as methamphetamine are volatile and can leave harmful residues throughout a structure. Our technicians follow federal and state guidelines to properly clean all surfaces.

Preventing Winter House Fires

11/9/2021 (Permalink)

Did you know...

The threat of a home catching on fire is the greatest during the winter months? Half of all home fires occur during the months of December, January and February. 1 in 7 house fires is a result of malfunctioning or misused heating equipment.

Here are some tips to keep your home safe while keeping warm during the winter.

• Have your fireplace, heating vents and dryer vents inspected and cleaned by a professional every year.
• If you use your fireplace, make sure you clean after every use. Dispose of ashes correctly by placing them in a metal can at least ten feet from the house.
• Keep anything that can burn at least three feet from any heat source like fireplaces, wood stoves, radiators, or space heaters
• Plug only one heat-producing appliance (such as a space heater) into an electrical outlet at a time.
• If portable generators are needed, keep them outside, away from windows and as far away as possible from your home. Make sure someone is home to supervise.
• Install and test carbon monoxide alarms at least once a month.

These are simple but effective steps to take to safeguard your home against a fire this winter season.

Remember, SERVPRO of Hattiesburg can clean fire, smoke, and soot damage to make it “Like it never even happened.” Give us a call at 601-544-0512.

SERVPRO Ready Plan

11/5/2021 (Permalink)

Did you know that nearly 50% of businesses never reopen after a disaster or major damage?

The team at SERVPRO of Hattiesburg understands how critical it is for you to be prepared, and we have developed our SERVPRO Ready Plan to help make sure you are ready for whatever happens. Our SERVPRO Ready Plan will provide you and your staff with easily accessible information that is crucial during an emergency. 

While we understand that no matter of preparedness will prevent disasters, we also know that having an SERVPRO Ready Plan in place will reduce time and financial impact on the business so that you can return to what matters most as quickly as possible. The SERVPRO Ready Plan will help you by having critical documents and details of your building and business in one place as well as providing you access to professionals who know how to help you return to normal.

From a pipe burst to a catastrophic event like a hurricane, the SERVPRO Ready Plan will have everything that you need at your fingertips. Contact SERVPRO of Hattiesburg today to schedule your free SERVPRO Ready Plan property assessment: 601-544-0512.

Commercial Fire Damage Preparation

11/5/2021 (Permalink)

As a leader in fire and water damage restoration, SERVPRO of Hattiesburg is always here to help.

As heaters along Gulf Coast start coming on, we receive an uptick in fire and smoke damage related calls. A fire in your business can be costly from a time perspective as well as the loss of business revenue and the cost for the repairs themselves.  A business interruption like a fire could cause the business to be closed for days to several months depending on the severity of the damage. Fortunately, there are several ways that you can reduce this impact on your business. 

• Install Fire Alarm System
  • A smoke alarm will automatically notify first responders as well as alert your staff Early warning systems that alert your staff to the presence of fire.
• Install Fire Sprinkler System
  • A sprinkler systems will assist by actively controlling fire until firefighters arrive. While a sprinkler system only releases a fraction of water as standard fire hoses, they can greatly minimize potential damage.
• Consult Fire Protection Engineering Company
  • A specialized fire engineering group may be able to help you in designing fire-resistant elements the construction or renovation of your building.
• Contact SERVPRO of Hattiesburg for a SERVPRO READY Plan
  • A emergency response plan can greatly unexpected disasters.  Your plan should include emergency shut-offs and locations, vendor contacts and insurance information. Contact SERVPRO of Hattiesburg by calling (601)544-0512 and a representative will set up your free plan. 

Whatever you choose to do for your business, you should always make sure that your systems are regularly inspected and maintained in order to ensure proper operation. You may use a combination or just one of these ideas, but we hope this information will help you better decide what fits with your individual company's needs. 

In the event of a fire damage, the team at SERVPRO of Hattiesburg is here to help. We are a full service restoration company that is IICRC Certified in Fire and Smoke Restoration.  Our highly trained team is always Here to Help: 601-544-0512. 

Fire Safety Tips during the Holidays

11/5/2021 (Permalink)

Happy Holidays from SERVPRO of Hattiesburg!

The holidays are one of the most wonderful times of the year! There is nothing better than putting up holiday lights and having the home feel warm and cozy. The holiday lights and extra gatherings mean an increase in our electricity usage. If we aren’t careful, this can be a huge hazard if not used or maintained properly. According to the National Fire Protection Association (www.nfpa.org), holiday fires caused an average of three deaths, 15 injuries, and $10 million in direct property damage annually. 

SERVPRO of Hattiesburg wants to help keep you safe during this holiday season. With the help of the NPFA, we’ve pulled together some safety tips for you to keep in mind! 

Electrical Fire Safety Tips

• Make sure that there are smoke detectors installed on every floor of the building, inside each room and right outside of every sleeping area to ensure that the alarms can be heard even when sleeping.
• Test smoke detectors monthly to make sure that they’re working properly and have working batteries.
• Have your electrical system inspected by a certified professional to make sure that all of the electrical work meets the National Electric Code safety standards.
• Look and listen for signs of electrical problems such as, flickering or dim lights, buzzing or sizzling sounds from electrical outlets, or insulation and circuit breakers that trip repeatedly. If any of these or any other electrical problems are found, contact a professional as soon as possible for the issue to be inspected.
• Avoid overloading outlets with too many electronics. Consider having more outlets or circuits installed by a professional.
• In homes with children, install tamper-resistant devices to keep children from getting electrical shocks or burns.
• Create an evacuation plan that can be used in the event of a fire.

SERVPRO of Hattiesburg understands that there is nothing worse than being out of your home for the holidays. We know that this time of year is filled with traditions and creating memories. Make sure to follow all the tips we’ve listed in order to prevent fires from affecting your holiday season. And, remember, if an emergency occurs inside your home or business, know that SERVPRO of Hattiesburg is ready to help you get back to your holiday traditions!

After the Storm

11/5/2021 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Hattiesburg, we are constantly assessing our preparedness for major storm events and educating our community about what steps can be taken to protect your property. But, what should you do after the storm if your home has been damaged?

After the Storm

1. Protect yourself before entering the structure.

2. Clean up safely and Protect your property. Contact SERVPRO of Hattiesburg, our team of professionals have the resources and personnel to restore your property and provide temporary repairs such as tarping and board ups. 

3. Contact your insurance company to report your damage.

4. Document, Keep Receipts, and Return Claims Forms Promptly. 

5. Rebuild with a reputable contactor such as SERVPRO of Hattiesburg. We will make your damage "Like it never even happened."

By promptly mitigating the damage, we help our clients reduce costs and prevent further damage. Our team of professionals is here to help our community for the entire restoration process: 601-544-0512.

Preparing for a Major Storm or Hurricane

11/5/2021 (Permalink)

When a major storm is coming, safety is the number one priority. Stay informed by following NOAA or your local news channels for updates. It's also important to obey all evacuation orders. Below are safety tips for how you can prepare before a major storm whether you will or will not be evacuating.

1. Make a plan
   If evacuation is necessary, turn off all utilities and follow community disaster preparedness plans. Select a common meeting place or single point-of-contact for all family members. If you have pets, have a plan for their evacuation as well.  
2. Secure the exterior
   Trim large trees and shrubs and bring all outside patio furniture, potted plants, bikes and toys indoors. If necessary, secure outdoor sculptures with burlap or blankets tied with rope.  
3. Install storm shutters
   Protect windows, doors and skylights with appropriate shutters or impact-resistant glass. You can nail pieces of plywood to window frames as last-minute protection.  
4. Check wall hangings and art
   Make sure wall hangings are secure and take notes about your art collection and any existing damage. Make sure that art hung on outside walls are taken inside, and elevated off the floor. Click here for more tips on how to help protect your art and other valuables from severe storms, winds, and floods.  
5. Move your cars
   Move cars to higher ground or park them in your garage against the garage doors. Do not park under trees, power lines or in low-lying areas.
6. Power up
   Fill your car’s gas tank, charge your cell phone, test your generator and have plenty of fuel ready in case of power outages.
7. Unplug appliances
   Move appliances and household fixtures away from exterior doors and window openings. Store them in cabinets or interior closets.
8. Store important documents
   Keep important documents, such as legal papers, birth certificates, marriage license, financial papers and insurance policy information, as well as valuables such as jewelry, in a safety deposit box or in a bolted safe in an interior closet in your home.
9. Prepare an emergency kit
   Gather flashlights, a portable radio, extra batteries, non-perishable food for 2 weeks, bottled water for 2 weeks, cash, blankets, clothing and toiletries. 
10. Identify a shelter room
    This enclosed area should be on the first floor, in the central part of the house with no windows. Avoid all unprotected windows and doors until the storm passes.

After the Storm

SERVPRO of Hattiesburg is a local company with national resources. Our team of personnel spans over 1700 franchises from within our disaster recovery network. Should disaster strike, know that we are always ready and available: 601-544-0512.

Cooler Weather and Water Damage

11/5/2021 (Permalink)

As cooler weather approaches, most of us will be spending more time in our homes, and with that comes more plumbing and electrical usage. This is not generally an issue if everything is properly maintained, but it can be an issue if it is not.

While it does not become cold enough in Hattiesburg to make frozen pipes a common occurrence, the risk of water damage from pipe burst still poses a threat. It is smart to watch out for any changes in water pressure or even a sudden increase in your water bill. Both of these are potentially signs that water is being diverted to places that it should not be going. While it could be nothing, it could also be a sign that something has happened or is on the verge of happening. So, it's a good idea to check it out! 

Another common issue is caused by improperly maintained air conditioning units. Yes, it may be fall or winter, but being near the Gulf Coast means some times running your AC in January. If not properly maintained, the extended use of air conditioning units can cause drainage issues. It's important to change your air filter regularly and have your unit inspected and lines cleaned at least once a year. If you notice that water is accumulating in the drainage pan, it's a good idea to contact your local HVAC company to avoid a water damage.

If you discover a water damage, remember that SERVPRO of Hattiesburg is here to help: 601-544-0512.

Clean Water Loss: Before Help Arrives

11/5/2021 (Permalink)

Many homeowners will ask what they can do before we arrive. The following tips can be done and are very important in reducing your overall damage. If your water damage was the result of clean water source malfunction, follow the tips below.

• Shut off the source of the water.

• Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building if the access panel is safe from electrical shock.

• Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting

• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removing lamps and tabletop items

• Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying

• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting

• Remove to a safe, dry place any paintings, art objects, computers, documents and other materials that are valuable or sensitive to moisture.

• Use wooden clothespins to keep furniture skirting off damp floors

• Hang draperies with coated hangers to avoid contact with wet carpeting or floors

Contact SERVPRO of Hattiesburg

By following these tips, you will reduce the damage that may not be easily restorable such as damage to expensive rugs that could bleed onto carpet or artwork. The team of professionals at SERVPRO of Hattiesburg will arrive to assess your salvageable property and restore your home to preloss condition. If you have a water damage, contact SERVPRO of Hattiesburg 24/7/365: 601-544-0512.

The Water You Don't See

11/3/2021 (Permalink)

This damage was caused by a long term roof leak that was left unmitigated. Continual rain and migrating moisture caused damage to 4 rooms.

While some water damages are obvious, such as a pipe burst or a flood, others are not so obvious and many times it is the water that you don't see that causes the most damage. As the general public becomes more educated regarding water damage and mold, many understand the urgency to mitigate properly and promptly. 

Our team is trained to locate not only the source of the damage and remove any standing water, but to assess what structural materials should be dried or replaced. We do this because leaving wet materials in the home can be costly from a construction standpoint and can lead to implications that reach far beyond the inconvenience of a water damage. Long term damages can do the same thing. Common scenarios of these long term damages include: refrigerator supply line leaks, roof leaks, and plumbing leaks from fittings under sinks or toilets. These common scenarios have the potential to cause extensive damage by simply occurring for so long. By the time the damage is noticed, it may be too late for the items to be restored. It is a good idea to check these areas at least once a month and be on the look out for these warning signs of a potential water intrusion:

• Water accumulation in unusual locations
• Discoloration on ceilings or walls
• Changes in the texture in your flooring (warping, buckling, expansion or sinking).
• Odors.

If you suspect a moisture issue at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Hattiesburg at 601-544-0512.  Our IICRC Certified Water Restoration Technicians have the skills and equipment to quickly and easily locate any moisture issues within your home or business.

Rising Water Bill?

11/3/2021 (Permalink)

This damage was caused by a long term leak caused by a loose fitting on the second floor. SERVPRO of Hattiesburg is always here to help!

It's common in the summer months for water bills to increase due to increased usage, but have you noticed a significant climb in your water bill?

Often times, barring any usage increase, a significant increase in your water bill is a sign of a leak. More specifically, it is a common indicator of a plumbing or irrigation related leak. It is a good practice to check your home or property, especially if it is vacant, at least once a month to make sure that your plumbing is properly working. Signs of intrusion may include discoloration, bubbling or flaking paint, damp flooring or content, buckling or cupping wooden floors, or even a strange odor. If it is a long term damage, there most often will be a strange odor that accompanies it. Most will describe this odor was "musty" or "moldy". 

If you think that there may be water intrusion, the best thing to do is to call SERVPRO of Hattiesburg. Our trained personnel have the resources and knowledge to identify the source of water intrusion and migration of moisture. We are available 24/7/365. Call us today: 601-544-0512.

Preparing for Storm Damage

11/2/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Hattiesburg responded to a church in New Orleans that sustained damage following Hurricane Ida. Our team provided mitigation services.

Hurricane Ida was the second major hurricane of the 2021 Atlantic Hurricane Season. Ida impacted Louisiana on the 16th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina on August 29th, 2021. Due to the rapid formation, many Louisiana and South Mississippi residents were left with very little notice to prepare resulting in catastrophic and widespread damage as well as a long and arduous recovery process. Restoring your property following a major hurricane has its own set of complications apart from the actual restoration process. Being adequately prepared makes the process much quicker and easier.

How to Prepare?

One of the best ways you can prepare ahead of the hurricane is to have an emergency plan in place for your home or business. Ideally, this preparation is done before hurricane season and reviewed each year. This plan should include choosing your restoration vendor, especially if you own a business or manage a large property so, in the vent of major damage, your vendor will be prepared to respond with adequate resources and personnel. Following a major hurricane, it is common for resources and personnel to be in short supply. Creating an emergency plan and choosing your restoration vendor ahead of time will educate and setup expectations of the standards and practices of the insurance restoration process.

CHOOSE SERVPRO of Hattiesburg

By by having a relationship with a reputable restoration contractor such as SERVPRO of Hattiesburg, you will be steps ahead in getting your life back to normal. If you experience storm damage, contact the professionals at SERVPRO of Hattiesburg: 601-544-0512.

Holidays: Water Damage Edition

11/2/2021 (Permalink)

We are available 24/7/365.

Most Americans would agree that the Holiday Season kicks off following Halloween. It's a time to gather with family and friends and reflect on the many blessings and lessons of the past year. Overall, it's a very happy time. However, it's also the time of year when we receive the most calls for water damages related to plumbing leaks and backups. Did you know that the single busiest day of the year for plumbers is Thanksgiving?

Luckily, we have tips for navigating the holidays with minimal damage so you can keep celebrating all season long!

Ideas for Reducing Plumbing Issues

• DON'T use the garbage disposal for peels such as potato, apple, onion, and hard squash such as acorn or butternut. It's also a good idea to avoid disposing of celery, lettuce and other greens, bones, egg shells, and leftover grease or oil. 
• DO turn on the faucet prior to emptying food waste, DO leave the garbage disposal on until all waste is disposed, DO leave faucet on after disposing of waste to allow prevent clogging the drain.
• DO stock bathrooms with easily flushable toilet paper and fresh cotton hand towels so that toilets are not clogged. 

What to do after water damage when plumbing fails?

Contact SERVPRO of Hattiesburg (601-544-0512) to mitigate the water damage and an emergency plumber to repair the source of the leak. Our team is available 24/7/365 because disasters do not wait for normal business hours, and neither do we. We are always here to help. 

Water Damage: What to Expect?

11/2/2021 (Permalink)

As a leader in the restoration industry, SERVPRO of Hattiesburg has the training and resources to quickly restore your property to preloss condition.

With water damage, a small problem can become a bigger (and more expensive) one if not properly mitigated. Some of the biggest damages we have mitigated were found after the property was vacant for some time whether that be for months or for just a weekend. A very common scenario is following a vacation or simply returning to the office on Monday morning.

Water Damage: What to Expect?

When you have a water damage in your home or business, your top priority is to begin the cleanup process as soon as possible. We understand that communication is key to making the mitigation and restoration as stress free as possible. Our team at SERVPRO of Hattiesburg doesn't just walk you through the details at the initial visit, we are there every step of the way to make sure your experience as seamless and easy as possible. Our team will communicate directly with your insurance company and relay all details directly to you to you to ensure that you are always informed of the status of your property.

Additionally, our proprietary software DryBook Mobile allows us to quickly and accurately share drying status reports with you and your insurance company at a moment’s notice.  At SERVPRO of Hattiesburg, we realize that taking care of a water damage is about so much more than the technical aspects.  It’s about taking care of the customer that truly matters!  If you experience a water damage in your home or business call the IICRC Certified experts at SERVPRO of Hattiesburg: 601-544-0512.

Commercial Cleaning in Hattiesburg, MS

9/2/2021 (Permalink)

We are glad to assist our local schools in preparing for a wonderful 2021/2022 school year!

While we are most known for providing services that are the result of damage (such as water, fire, mold, or biohazard). We actually are called upon to provide many services that would be considered non-emergent. These could be cleanings or construction related improvements such as remodeling or renovations. We frequently receive requests such as these from schools preparing for the return of students.

School Gymnasium

Recently, we were called upon by one of our clients in Hattiesburg to assist in preparing for the start of school. The school requested assistance with cleaning walls and replacing lights and tiles in the elevated ceilings. In order to reach the ceilings and high portions of the walls, our team utilized motorized scissor lifts that would allow them to move more quickly and safely. We completed the project in 2 days.

We are grateful to partner with our schools and  are hoping for a wonderful school year for all of our teachers and students in the Hattiesburg area!

How to Handle a Water Damage in your Business

9/2/2021 (Permalink)

Our team responded to a commercial office space with significant water damage. A pipe burst overnight causing damage to a building of office suites.

While no scenario is exactly the same, there are general steps that can be taken in every situation. 

1. Locate and shut off the shut-off valve or source of damage. Knowing where the water is coming from and how to shut it off is the first step that should be taken when you find a water damage in your building. Turning off the source of the damage is the first step in mitigating and preventing additional damage.
2. Contact your insurance company to inform them of the damage. By informing your insurance company of the damage, you are able to take the first steps in claim resolution. The more quickly that you report your damage to your insurance company, the more quickly they are able to assess coverage and reimburse you for damages.
3. Contact SERVPRO of Hattiesburg for emergency services and reconstruction. It is also helpful to begin moving items off of the floor such as rugs or wood furniture or electronic documents such as printers and computers that could be damaged by standing water. Our seasoned team of professionals will arrive promptly and immediately move into action: extracting and mitigating your water damage by removing damaged materials or assessing if they can be salvaged. Following the mitigation process, our team will provide you with the repairs or reconstruction for any item that was not able to restored by cleaning and drying. 

CALL SERVPRO of Hattiesburg

Our team is available for cleaning, restoration, and reconstruction 24/7/365. Call us: 601-544-0512

2021 Hurricane Season

5/26/2021 (Permalink)

As we get ready to enter into hurricane season, we want to make sure our community is well prepared and informed of what to do in case the storms get way out of hand. To ensure you and your loved ones are safe during this upcoming storm season, read along for these tips on what to do to be storm safe:

1. Know Your Risks: One the most important things you can do is understand how susceptible your area is to hurricane weather. Being informed pf the likelihood of how a hurricane can affect your area by keeping up to date with weather announcement and local and governments 
2. Build an Emergency Kit: This one sounds simple, but it is often overlooked. Keeping an emergency kit that is stocked with water, canned foods, non perishables, and comfort items such as blankets and toys could be the difference between a disaster and an inconvenience. 
3. Review And Gather Documents: Review your policies ahead of time to see what is covered and if flood insurance is available to you. Gather important documents such as insurance policies, IDs, birth certificates, deeds, or even sentimental documents and keep them in a fireproof and waterproof safe. 
4. Be Informed: Knowing where to go and who to call is key to staying safe. Having an evacuation plan in place in the event of a disaster ensure members of your household know what to do in case home isn’t the safest place to be. Have a planned route and an alternate route to get to a safe place away from the storm.
5. Strengthen Your Home: Taking a look around your property to see if you are vulnerable in the event of a hurricane is a key factor in minimizing your risk of damage. By looking for vulnerable areas, you’ll be able to address them and fortify and susceptible areas around the home or property.

Implementing these tips will help you face this hurricane season and minimize the risk of your property being a victim of the elements. Keep SERVPRO of Hattiesburg in mind for all your storm damage restoration needs. 

Surviving the Flood

5/26/2021 (Permalink)

We live in a world where mother nature has a mind of her own at times, and natural disaster can strike at anytime and can ruin the normal flow of life we once had. The nice furniture, flooring, and decor that once occupied our home, now washed away by water. Whether the flooding that has occurred in your home was because of a pipe bursting, a sewer backup, faulty appliance, a heavy rain or even rising floodwaters, there are important steps you should take in order to keep you and your family safe. 

After any water damage situation, your primary focus should be safety:

• Is it safe to stay in the house?
• Electrical and "slip and fall" hazards are some of the most prevalent concerns.
• Only do activities that are safe for you to perform.
• Wet materials can be VERY heavy. Be careful!

You and your family may not even be thinking about flooding, but rather tornado damage or hurricane damage. But with any severe storm or rain there is always a chance of flooding. And even appliances can cause flooding. Here at SERVPRO® of Hattiesburg we want you to be as prepared and safe as possible, therefore we put together some do and don'ts to put into practice after you have encountered flooding within your home.

What To Do After Flooding

• Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and tabletop items.
• Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
• Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in summer.
• Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting.
• Remove art objects to a safe, dry place.
• Gather loose items from floors.

What NOT To Do After Flooding

• Don't leave wet fabrics in place. Hang furs and leather goods.
• Don't leave books, magazines or other colored items on wet carpet or floors.
• Don't use your household vacuum to remove water.
• Don't use television or other household appliances.
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging.

 Reminders:

1. Do not panic, take a breath and understand that although today feels like the worst day ever. Things WILL get better.
2. Keep safety always at the forefront of your mind (stop the water source, shut all electricity off, etc.)
3. Call SERVPRO in order to get things clean, dry and back to beautiful as quickly as possible.

 Why SERVPRO?

• 24-Hour Emergency Service
• Faster to Any Size Disaster
• Highly Trained Water Restoration Technicians
• A Trusted Leader in the Water Restoration Industry
• Locally Owned and Operated
• Advanced Water Inspection, Extraction, and Drying Equipment

Customer Safety is Important to Us!

4/21/2021 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Hattiesburg, we believe taking care of our customers is about more than just completing the job. It is about how you do that job, what tools you use and going that "extra mile". One way in which we go that "extra mile" is by making customer safety a top priority. This may require added costs or additional resources, but we truly believe that there are no shortcuts when it comes to providing exceptional service for our customers.  Here are some extra steps we take to ensure the highest level of safety for our customers on every job site:

• Products - We believe in using the safest "green" products available.
• Benefect is a botanical, plant based, hospital grade disinfecting solution that poses no health hazards to humans or animals.
• Training and Certification - Our technicians undergo rigorous training to ensure that they utilize proper techniques to ensure safe environments for our crews and our customers.
• IICRC Certification - our team holds a total of 31 certifications across the board
• OSHA 10 and OSHA 30 Certification
• Protocols and Standards
• PPE
• Proper Containment
• Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
• Proper disposal of biohazard waste

If you need service, you can reach SERVPRO of Hattiesburg at 601-544-0512 or 228-467-4450. 24 hours a day, 365 days a year…because disasters don’t wait!

2021 Fire Pit Safety

4/21/2021 (Permalink)

Warmer temperatures and longer days are finally upon us!

This time of year is one of the best because it’s finally time to gather around the fire pit and enjoy time with friends and family. We know this is a great way to gather in the backyard during the warmer months. Burgers on the grill, drinks in hand, and some background music is a sure way to have everyone in a good mood. Here are some quick and simple fire pit safety tips to keep the fire bright and the mood light:

1. Clear all flammable materials away from your fire pit. Make sure it’s kept 10 feet away from the home or building. 

2. Pile dirt or rocks to keep the fire on the ground from escaping 

3. Before lighting your fire, check the wind direction. If it’s too windy, do not light your fire pit as the wind can cause the flames to travel.

4. Contrary to popular belief, lighting fluid is not safe for lighting a fire pit. Use a commercial fire starter kick with kindling on top. 

5. Once the fire pit is lit, never leave it unattended and never leave children or pets near the fire pit without adult supervision.

6. Avoid  softwoods like pine or cedar to prevent flying sparks and flame “pops”, 

7. Only put enough fuel to keep the fire burning gently to prevent flare-ups and uncontrollable flames. 

8. To extinguish the flames, use water to drown out the fire and stir it with a shovel to make sure it’s fully extinguished. Use the shovel to extinguish any escaped flames as well

9. Dispose of the ashes in a metal can use only for fire pit ash storage. Careful, even after a few days the ashes are still hot enough to cause a fire. 

10. Accidents happen, even with the correct preventative measures taken. Having a fire extinguisher nearby can greatly reduce the risk of the fire getting out of control. 

If you have fire damage in your Hattiesburg/ MS Gulf Coast property, give us a call at 601-544-0512 or 228-467-4450! We are here 24/7 365 days to service the Greater Hattiesburg area and parts of the Mississippi Gulf Coast!

Why Choose SERVPRO of Hattiesburg?

3/10/2021 (Permalink)

For over 5 decades, the name SERVPRO has been associated with remediation and restoration excellence. We have led the industry in innovation and customer satisfaction.  We follow all IICRC standards and make sure our highly trained team is always up to date in all certification areas.  IICRC sets the high standards for the cleaning and restoration industries. Many people ask, “What does it mean to be an IICRC certified firm?” It means here at SERVPRO of Hattiesburg, we strictly follow and enforce the latest and best industry practices and standards! SERVPRO of Hattiesburg is the trusted choice in Hattiesburg and parts of the MS Gulf Coast when something unexpected happens. You can trust that each of our team members are highly trained with the proper knowledge and tools to effectively complete the job.

From weekly Training Sessions to ongoing certification classes opportunities throughout the year, our employees are continuously strengthening their knowledge.  In times of disaster and crisis, it is critically important to choose a company who will not only get the job done, but done correctly.  This expertise helps us to offer confident and thorough recovery efforts, but also helps to push our entire team to exceed the expectations of home and business owners throughout our community.  

Give us a call today if you need services in Hattiesburg or the MS Gulf Coast area! 601-544-0512 or 228-467-4450

2021 Tornado Season, Are You Ready?

3/10/2021 (Permalink)

March is the beginning of Spring Tornado Season that runs until the end of May. Tornadoes are terrifying and can be devastating events in our communities. Damage caused by tornadoes to your home or office can be overwhelming, but the recovery process of where to even start can be a dauting task.  However, there are steps that you can take towards recovery and our teams at SERVPRO of Hattiesburg are ready to help along the way. There are steps that should be taken right after the storm passes, and other steps to take down the road when it is time for repairs and cleaning.

• Protect your family and loved ones
• Protect your various properties
• The clean up, recovery and repair

Now is the perfect time, to double check your Emergency Safety Kits. Fresh Batteries, working flashlights, portable weather radio and copies of current insurance policies are important items and documents to have readily available in a commonly know spot in your home or office. 

No matter what the weather challenges us with this Spring, SERVPRO of Hattiesburg is here and ready to help you with every step of the way. We are available 24/7 and we will make it "Like it never even happened."

5 Safety Tips for Cold Weather

2/17/2021 (Permalink)

Too many homes suffer from fire damage that could have been prevented with just a little foresight and planning. In order to help you keep your family safe from fire during the cold weather days, here are 5 of the most important Winter Fire Safety Tips you should act on:

Check Your Smoke Alarms

Ideally, you would have checked your smoke alarm batteries when the clocks changed. But now is the season when it might actually make a difference, so make sure that your batteries are good for the winter.

Also, there should be smoke alarms in every bedroom plus the kitchen and laundry room at bare minimum. Make sure you have enough smoke alarms strategically placed all around your home.

Inspect Your Chimney

If you use a fireplace, you should know that they can produce creosote, which is a flammable substance.

If your family likes to light fires in the fireplace, you should get an annual chimney inspection to ensure there are no fire hazards.

And don’t forget to use dry, seasoned wood, which will give you bright flames with less smoke. Excess smoke could lead to smoke damage.

Always Use a Screen for Your Fireplace

Whether you prefer a metal screen or a screen of tempered glass, you want to make sure to protect against any sparks that might otherwise stray from the fireplace.

Even with a screen in place, be sure to keep curious children and pets safely away from the fireplace. Also, any potentially flammable fabrics or materials should be kept at least three feet away from a lit fire.

Maintain Your Furnace

Typically, it’s a good idea to invest in an annual inspection from a professional. They can check your system for the signs of wear and tear or potential damage that could lead to furnace problems.

Use Candles and Space Heaters with Caution

Candle create a lovely atmosphere and may even provide extra light on the darkest of days. Make sure, however, they are placed securely where they won’t get knocked over, as well as safe out of the reach of young children and pets.

And don’t forget to blow them out when you leave the room!

Similarly, with space heaters, you want to make sure to keep sufficient clear space around them (typically at least 3 feet all the way around) to prevent a potential fire hazard. Make sure the heater you use has an automatic shut-off switch so that its internal mechanisms won’t overheat.

And make sure to turn it off before you go to sleep or move to a different room!

Here at SERVPRO of Hattiesburg, we want to help keep you safe from a possible fire damage. We’re known not only for our reliability and expertise as a professional restoration and cleaning services provider, but people love us for our friendly customer service too.

For help with Fire Damage cleanup and restoration, you can give us a call any time 24/7. 601-544-0512 or 228-467-4450

Issues from Water Intrusion in the Commercial Environment

1/15/2021 (Permalink)

Many commercial structures have a larger volume water entering the premises through plumbing supply lines, and at a higher water pressure. The quantity of outgoing sewage is also greater than a typical residence. Commercial buildings tend to be of larger square footage than a home, so entry points for water intrusion through areas like the roof, exterior walls or windows are greater in number.

Water intrusion in commercial buildings can damage high-value equipment like computers and building services such as HVAC, lighting, elevators and security equipment. Common long-term consequences of water damage; like the growth of potentially toxic mold, may be even more problematic than in a home due to the larger occupancy of a business or commercial enterprise. When a greater number of people with a wider range of sensitivity are exposed to mold and bacteria spores, health effects may be significantly magnified, perhaps leading to an enforced closure of the facility until the situation is fully remediated.

Typical issues from water intrusion in the commercial environment include:

• Water from roof leaks penetrating through ceilings. Chronic leakage through the roof may proceed unnoticed for long periods, hidden by suspended ceiling panels or in electrical or HVAC service areas above.
• Ruptures of water supply lines typically release clean (white) water.  Sewage backups or leaks in drain pipes release toxic (black) water that may be a biohazard and require evacuation of the premises.
• Flooding from external sources can result from heavy rains, storms such as hurricanes, rapid snow melt or local overflowing lakes or rivers.
• Moisture intrusion through the building envelope is typically more subtle. Humid outdoor air may be drawn in through structural cracks and gaps. Over a period, chronic dampness forms in spaces like wall voids, unventilated attics and service areas, spawning hidden mold growth that persists unseen.

For professional remediation of water intrusion in commercial buildings and secondary damage such as mold growth, contact SERVPRO of Hattiesburg! We service the Hattiesburg and MS Gulf Coast area! 601-544-0512 or 228-467-4450

The Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) System is Designed with Business Owners in Mind

1/15/2021 (Permalink)

Your commercial property is always at risk of being damaged by natural elements and disasters. If your business gets hit by a disaster, you’ll need a commercial restoration company with the proper training, experience and resources to return your property to “Like it never even happened.”

We are faster to any disaster and use advanced technology to take care of any commercial restoration need.

SERVPRO of Hattiesburg technicians first identify the extent of the problem, and then work with care and sensitivity to rescue and restore the area to normal conditions. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

The SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) system exists to help you get emergency mitigation services to your business as fast as possible after a disaster. The ERP system is designed with business owners in mind and allows you to upload relevant documents, information, and building layouts that help our technicians react fast and control the situation better than if you had placed a standard phone call. The ERP system is free to use and has an official mobile app to allow you to call for help at the touch of a button.

If you are preparing for a disaster or recovering from one we can help!

Call us at 601-544-0512 or 228-467-4450

Thermal Fogging

1/13/2021 (Permalink)

As experts in deodorization, SERVPRO of Hattiesburg is trained to eliminate smoke odors in your Hattiesburg/MS Gulf Coast home.

Fires can be especially devastating to your home or business. After the fire trucks leave, your property will likely suffer from not only fire and smoke damage, but also widespread water damage and flooding from firefighting efforts. SERVPRO of Hattiesburg have specialized in fire and water damage restoration training and experience to quickly clean up and restore your home to pre-fire condition. They also can remove the pervasive smoke odor by doing Thermal fogging.

What is Thermal fogging?

A Hand held devise that takes a liquid and converts it to steam/fog. The technicians move around the structure with the devise to “fog” all areas affected by smoke and smoke odors to neutralize odors.

Thermal fogging is an effective smoke odor removal procedure because it recreates the fire related properties of heat and pressurization. Porous material pick up thermally activated deodorant droplets in the same manner in which they picked up the smoke odors, closely duplicating what occurs during a fire.

Some jobs are best left to the professionals, call SERVPRO of Hattiesburg for any questions or to schedule services. 601-544-0512

Mold and Wallpaper

1/13/2021 (Permalink)

Are you flipping a house in the Hattiesburg/ MS Gulf Coast area? If you renovate homes often, do you find that a lot of older homes have wallpaper?

The wallpaper trend was very popular back in the day, and you may want to remove it for a more updated modern look. When removing old wallpaper, you may see "mold" behind it. This is due to the long term moisture that could be trapped behind the wallpaper and the sheetrock. This is more common in humid areas of the home such as in a bathroom, and the area not being able to dry properly. 

If you find mold while renovating your home, give SERVPRO of Hattiesburg a call at 601-544-0512 or 228-467-4450. We are open 24/7 365 days!

24 Hour Remediation Services

1/8/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Hattiesburg is ready to answer your call 24/7/365!

As an independently owned business, we understand that every hour lost is a customer and revenue lost. With our highly trained and certified technicians, we can prevent loses such as water damage and mold from being long-term problem for your business. Being a 24-hour franchise, we have a flexible schedule to work around time strains you may have. 

We have the experience and the technology needed to solve any problem. If your business or residence is damaged by water, fire, or any other force of mother nature, Do not hesitate to call SERVPRO of Hattiesburg at 601-544-0512

We are here to make it "Like it never even happened." Give us a call if you need mitigation services for your home or business in the Hattiesburg or MS Gulf Coast Area! 

Advanced Technology and Techniques: Water Damage

1/8/2021 (Permalink)

What sets SERVPRO of Hattiesburg apart is our advanced technology and techniques that allow us to be pioneers in the restoration industry. The technology and best practices we use allows SERVPRO of Hattiesburg to get your home or business back to its preloss condition in no time!

When we first get to a job we need to measure the water damage using infrared cameras and moisture detection and measurement devices. The infrared camera allows us to see what the naked eye cannot see. 

Our powerful extraction equipment speeds the drying process by removing the water from your home or business. SERVPRO of Hattiesburg uses both Truck-mounted and portable extraction units to perform efficient water removal.

Our drying equipment includes Industrial-grade dehumidifiers that help prevent secondary water damage like swelling and warping of floors, walls, and furniture and High-speed air movers create airflow across walls, carpets, pads, and furniture, which accelerates the evaporation of moisture.

Our professionals will use room measurements, temperature, and relative humidity to determine the optimal number of air movers and dehumidifiers to dry your home or business. We’ll carefully monitor the progress using moisture meters until the materials return to acceptable drying goals.

If you are experiencing water damage in your home or business call us today! 601-544-0512

Why you Should Board-up

1/6/2021 (Permalink)

Fire Board-Ups can Save you Time and Money

If you have experienced a fire, there are several reasons why you might want to board up structural damage or windows. Aside from the safety side of choosing to board-up your damage property, it can also prevent additional losses due to looting and make the fire cleanup process quicker. SERVPRO of Hattiesburg offers full-service restoration specialists who can also assist in board-up services.

In a commercial setting, there may still be viable stock on the premises. If products that appear viable remain in the building, you should consider boarding up. These items may require assessment and cleaning and may not be fit for sale, but having them properly processed rather than stolen can be helpful for insurance purposes.

Protect electronics and other valuables. Depending on the extent of the fire damage, you may be able to restore some electronics or other valuable property to working condition.

Keep out the elements. If the structure of your property has sustained extensive damage, you should try to keep the elements out to prevent additional damage. Exposure to additional water, wind, or sunlight can compound the damage caused by smoke residue and soot.

Limit soot damage. It is generally a good idea to reduce foot traffic on the scene of a recent fire. When soot gets embedded into carpeting or upholstery, it can be much more difficult to restore these materials to a pre-fire condition.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, Flu Season, & COVID-19

1/6/2021 (Permalink)

Flu season is here once again. This year is especially unique due to the spread of COVID-19. Many may wonder, what does this mean for you? Experts are recommending to start by getting your flu shot, and continue following CDC guidelines that have been in place since the beginning of the Coronavirus pandemic. Wash your hands regularly, use hand sanitizer frequently, wear a mask and practice social distancing whenever possible. Regular cleaning and disinfection of high touch surfaces is also recommended, especially for offices and businesses open to the public.  You can always count on SERVPRO of Hattiesburg to be here every step of the way during this flu season. We have always been the experts in clean and our crews have undergone extensive IICRC training focusing on the removal of biohazard pathogens. Our stringent standards and adherence to all CDC and EPA guidelines means that you can have peace of mind knowing you are receiving the highest level of service.  When just “clean” won’t do, you need Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.  Call us today at 601-544-0512 or 228-467-4450

Holiday Fire Facts

12/7/2020 (Permalink)

The holidays are one of the most exciting times of the year! From family gatherings to festive decorations, there's always plenty to look forward to. No matter how we decorate, we are most likely going to be using some sort of electricity. If we aren’t careful, it can be a huge hazard if not used or maintained properly. According to the National Fire Protection Association www.nfpa.org, Holiday fires caused an average of three deaths, 15 injuries, and $10 million in direct property damage annually. On average, one of every 52 reported home fires that began with a Christmas tree resulted in a death, compared to an average of one death per 135 total reported home fires. 

SERVPRO of Hattiesburg wants to help keep you safe this Holiday season. With the help of the NPFA, here are some safety tips for you to keep in mind.

Electrical Fire Safety Tips

• Make sure that there are smoke detectors installed on every floor of the building, inside each room and right outside of every sleeping area to ensure that the alarms can be heard even when sleeping.
• Test smoke detectors monthly to make sure that they’re working properly and have working batteries.
• Have your electrical system inspected by a certified professional to make sure that all of the electrical work meets the National Electric Code safety standards.
• Look and listen for signs of electrical problems such as, flickering or dim lights, buzzing or sizzling sounds from electrical outlets, or insulation and circuit breakers that trip repeatedly. If any of these or any other electrical problems are found, contact a professional as soon as possible for the issue to be inspected.
• Avoid overloading outlets with too many electronics. Consider having more outlets or circuits installed by a professional.
• In homes with children, install tamper-resistant devices to keep children from getting electrical shocks or burns.
• Create an evacuation plan that can be used in the event of a fire.

If an emergency occurs this Holiday season, SERVPRO of Hattiesburg is here to help 24/7, even on Holidays! 601-544-0512 or 228-467-4450

Tips for a Safe Thanksgiving!

11/25/2020 (Permalink)

Did you know there are more than three times as many home cooking fires on Thanksgiving than any other day of the year?

Our team at SERVPRO of Hattiesburg wants to make sure you enjoy Thanksgiving with your loved ones, so here are a few tips to ensure your safety this holiday:

•Never leave food cooking on the stovetop unattended, especially when frying and sautéing with oil. Stay in your home while the turkey is cooking and check on it frequently.

•Use a timer to keep track of cooking times, most notably when simmering, baking, or roasting foods that require longer cook times. Check the stove or oven frequently.

•Consider putting timers in different rooms so you can hear them over music and party chatter.

•Keep things that can catch fire like oven mitts, wooden utensils, food wrappers, and towels well away (a minimum of three feet) from the cooking area.

•Push up shirt sleeves and avoid wearing billowy clothing that may come in contact with open flames or other heat sources. 

•Avoid cooking when drinking alcohol, using other substances, or if you’re sleepy.

•Make sure children stay at least three feet away from all cooking areas, hot food, and liquids to avoid burns.

Keep these tips in mind when frying a turkey:

•Keep outdoor fryers off decks, out of garages and a safe distance away from trees and other structures.

•Make sure the turkey is thawed and dry before cooking. Ice or water that mixes into the hot oil can cause flare-ups.

•Watch the weather. Never operate a fryer outdoors in the rain or snow.

•Place the fryer on a level surface, and avoid moving it once it's in use.

•Leave 2 feet between the tank and the burner when using a propane-powered fryer.

•Follow the manufacturer's instructions to avoid overfilling. Oil can ignite when it makes contact with the burner.

•Choose a smaller turkey for frying. A bird that's 8 to 10 pounds is best; pass on turkeys over 12 pounds.

•Never leave fryers unattended.

•Purchase a fryer with temperature controls, and watch the oil temperature carefully. Cooking oil that is heated beyond its smoke point can catch fire. If you notice the oil is smoking, turn the fryer off.

•Turn off the burner before lowering the turkey into the oil. Once the turkey is submerged, turn the burner on.

•Wear goggles to shield your eyes, use oven mitts to protect your hands and arms and keep an "ABC" or grease-rated fire extinguisher close by. Do not to use water or a garden hose on a fire related to Turkey Fryers.

•Skip the stuffing when frying turkey, and avoid water-based marinades.

•Keep children and pets away from the fryer at all times.

•Once finished, carefully remove the pot from the burner, place it on a level surface and cover to let the oil cool overnight before disposing.

•Opt for an oil-less fryer. This uses infrared heat, rather than oil, to cook the turkey.

If you do have an emergency this holiday season, SERVPRO of Hattiesburg is available to help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, even on holidays. Call us at 601-544-0512. Have a happy and safe Thanksgiving!

Turkey Fryer Safety Tips

11/25/2020 (Permalink)

Keep in mind the potential dangers of deep frying a turkey:

-Turkey fryers should be used outdoors, a safe distance away from buildings and any other flammable materials.

-Make sure the fryers are used on a flat surface to reduce accidental tipping.

-Make sure the turkey is completely thawed and dried. Water causes oil to spill over, leading to a fire or explosion.

-Turn the gas off before placing the turkey in the fryer.

-Never leave the fryer unattended.

-Never let children or pets near the fryer.

-Keep a fire extinguisher nearby. Never use water to extinguish a grease fire.

Fire Safety Tips for Fall

11/6/2020 (Permalink)

Did you know that fall carries the highest risk for house fires? 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.

1. 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.

2. Bonfire Safety

Do you enjoy bonfires with family and friends?

Bonfires are one of the most popular American fall activities. But if they aren’t properly attended, they can turn a fun night out into a disaster.

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.

3. Fireplace Safety 

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 fireplace if the chimney is clogged or damaged. Having a professional check the condition of your fireplace, and 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, give SERVPRO of Hattiesburg a call at 601-544-0512 or 228-467-4450

Halloween Fire Safety Tips

10/30/2020 (Permalink)

Keep your Halloween spooky and fun!

Halloween decorations are the first thing to ignite in over 1,000 reported home fires each year. Whether you are trick or treating, having a party, or staying inside, decorations can be a fire risk. It is important to be aware of your surroundings. By planning ahead, you can help make 2020 Halloween a fire-safe one. Taking simple fire safety precautions like keeping decorations far away from open flames and using battery-operated candles or glow-sticks in jack-o-lanterns can help ensure your holiday remains festive and fun. Here are five Halloween fire safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association:

• Use a battery-operated candle or glow stick in jack-o-lanterns.
• When choosing costumes, stay away from the long trailing fabric.
• Teach young children to stay away from open flames, including jack-o-lanterns with candles in them.
• Keep all decorations away from open flames, especially cornstalks, dried flowers, and crepe paper.
• Provide young children with glow sticks or flashlights to carry with their costumes.
• Remember to keep all exits clear of decorations so escape routes are not blocked. Also, make sure all smoke alarms are working properly.

We hope everyone has a fun and safe Halloween!

The Science of Drying Out Water Damage

10/23/2020 (Permalink)

Drying out water damage in customer's home

When Water Damage happens in your house the first things you think about is to grab towels and mop up the water and finish with placing the house fans to dry up the area. Did you know that there is a Science of Drying and restoring your property?

With all the factors that go into what can happen with water damage, it's time that matters the most to help prevent other problems to arise. When you call SERVPRO of Hattiesburg, we have the state-of-art equipment to speed up Mother Nature. When a property is wet it can naturally dry itself but also takes too long. With this process other damage such as mold and a weakened structure can happen creating more damage than if it was taken care of faster.

Here at SERVPRO of Hattiesburg we have the knowledge of psychrometrics which is essential to restoring water damage to its preloss condition. Our Team has been trained on all of the drying techniques that we use every day and are knowledgeable on how to dry your home the fastest way possible. SERVPRO of Hattiesburg has equipment to help dry your hardwood floors and carpets, hard to reach spaces in your walls and many more.

We have tools to monitor the drying process allowing us to take pictures and different readings to track the restoration progress. With the readings that we get we use our program SERVPRO DryBOOK to record information to ensure your restoration is done properly and efficiently every time.

We are here for any size Water Damage situation 24 hours a day and 7 days a week!

Clean Gutters Prevent Water Damage in Your Home

10/22/2020 (Permalink)

Do you tend to put off cleaning the gutters until as late as possible?

Maybe you even skipped doing it last year because it’s such a dreaded household chore.

No matter what time of year, gutters play a key role in preventing water damage to a home. Their purpose is to channel rainwater to the downspouts and away from the home. Because of this, it is important to make sure the gutters are working properly year-round in order to protect your property against potential water damage.

Clogged gutters can cause many issues for a homeowner. In the spring, summer, and fall, gutters are often clogged with fallen leaves. And in the winter, snow and ice can be the culprit. Water that is blocked by debris in the gutters will find the path of least resistance when it tries to drain. This often means it will find its way into the walls and ceilings of the home causing interior damage.

To help avoid water damage due to clogged gutters, the gutters should be well maintained and cleaned AT LEAST twice a year.

Following are the best tools that help you clean the nastiness out of your gutters.

Four Ways To Clean Gutters

Generally speaking, there are four ways to clean gutters:

1.  Climb a ladder and use a variety of tools to grab and remove the leaves and debris at eye-level.

2.  Attach tools to a wet/dry shop vac to suck up the leaves or to blast them out of the gutters.

3.  Attach tools to your water hose to spray leaves out of the gutters.

4.  Use a long-reaching pole to remove leaves from the gutters while standing at ground level.

Of course, there are some gutter cleaning tools that combine one or more of the methods mentioned above. And each has its pros and cons. In the end, it all comes down to your own personal preference and which seems like the safest and easiest option to you.

Prepare Your Home for a Potential Water Damage

10/22/2020 (Permalink)

Flooding in your home can happen at anytime, but your home can be even more exposed to water damage when it rains. Living near the MS Gulf Coast, storm damage becomes more of a threat to your property.  Here are a few tips to avoid damage caused by storm and water.  

1. Modify your homes water valves.  If the city's main sewer line gets backed up during a heavy rain storm, you could find yourself standing in a pile of you-know-what.  You may want to consider installing an interior or exterior backflow valve.  Backflow valves prevent your water system from being contaminated from water flowing backwards into your supply lines.  

2. Clear gutter, drains, and downspouts. Clogged gutters and downspouts can end up in a messy flood. Take the time to clean them and clear them of any and all debris before the rain comes.

3. Cover air vents. One of the most common ways water fins its way into a home is through the home's air vents. If you know that heavy rain is in the forecast and that you are at risk of flooding, cover your air vents with thick plastic sheeting from both the outside and the inside. 

4. Check your sealant surrounding doors and windows. Make sure that any gaps or holes in the sealant surrounding the doors and windows are filled in. This will help stop rain water from finding its way into your home. 

If water still manages to find a way into your home and you need assistance, give SERVPRO of Hattiesburg a call at 601-544-0512 or 228-467-4450! We're available 24/7 for emergency services. 

Fire Restoration Process

10/21/2020 (Permalink)

When it comes to fire damage, preparation is the key.

The first 48 hours after a fire often can be the difference between "restoring" vs. "replacing" your property and/or personal items. SERVPRO of Hattiesburg provides timely response with restoration services ranging from fire, smoke, and soot removal, to content claims inventory and document restoration.

If you have experienced fire damage in your home or business, here is what to expect from us:

One Hour: Within one hour from notice of loss, a priority responder will contact you.

Four Hours: Within four hours of loss notification, our certified technicians will be onsite to assess the damage.

Eight Hours: Within eight hours of on-site arrival, certified technicians will be working neatly and efficiently to clean, restore, and deodorization. Pre-cleaning for restoration, to prevent any further damage from soot and smoke.

Detailed Explanation: A trained and uniformed technician will walk you through the job process step-by-step, explaining what to expect and the anticipated outcome. We then use state-of-the-art restoration techniques to ensure your home or business is back to normal in an appropriate timeframe.

Final Walk-through: After the work has been completed, a final walk-through will be conducted with you to help ensure your satisfaction.

What To Do When Water is Everywhere

10/21/2020 (Permalink)

Water leaks within a home or business can seep into carpet, flooring, baseboards, and walls while moving throughout the structure. SERVPRO of Hattiesburg Professionals understand how disruptive water damages can be for a family. Water leaks in a business can not only disrupt the facility, but also can interrupt day to day business functions, which could possibly close the business and affect revenues. 

Timely mitigation is key to the restoration process.  Quick response time helps ensure that damage is contained and the restoration process begins promptly. This saves on the amount of damage, cost of claims, and assists in reducing losses from business interruption due to a loss.  Timely and proper water mitigation will also help keep mold from developing which could cause people to become ill!  SERVPRO Professionals will be able to identify water regardless of where it hides. Your local SERVPRO cover the greater Hattiesburg area and parts of the MS Gulf Coast. We offer 24-hour emergency response from our trained professionals to help make it "Like it never even happened."

Leak Prevention Tips

1.   Check roof for deterioration.
2.   Check gutters and downspouts.
3.   Check basements and crawl spaces for moisture.
4.   Check appliances in kitchens, break rooms, and cafeterias.
5.   Check sinks and toilets in bathrooms.
6.   Check HVAC for leaks and blockages. 

The Importance of Smoke Alarms

10/20/2020 (Permalink)

Smoke alarms play a vital role in saving lives, and when properly installed, can reduce the risk of fire injury in half.

The National Fire Protection Association recommends smoke alarms be installed in every bedroom, outside all sleeping quarters and on every level of the house.  Business owners should consult the local Fire Marshall to ensure specific building fire codes and smoke detector requirements are met.

Smoke alarms work best when paired with a fire escape plan.  A plan allows your family, employees or clients to escape quickly and safely in an emergency situation. 

Review the following tips regarding smoke detector installation and maintenance. Install smoke alarms on every level of the home, including the basement.

• Smoke alarms should be installed away from the kitchen to prevent false alarms.  Generally, they should be at least 10 feet from a cooking appliance.
• Test smoke alarms at least once a month using the test button.
• Replace batteries in all smoke alarms at least once a year.  We have found it useful to change the batteries when daylight savings time either begins or ends.  If an alarm "chirps," the battery is low and should be replaced right away.
• Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old.

Just the Facts: Smoke Alarms

• Three out of five fire deaths occur in homes with no smoke alarms or when the alarms are not working
• Smoke alarm failures usually result from missing, disconnected, or dead batteries.
• More than one-third (37 percent) of home fire deaths result in faulty alarms. Smoke alarms play a vital role in saving lives, and when properly installed, can reduce the risk of fire injury in half.
• The risk of dying in a home fire is cut in half in homes with working smoke alarms.

SERVPRO of Hattiesburg wants you and your family to be safe.  If you have a home or business fire, we are here for you and are a phone call away. 601-544-0512 or 228-467-4450

Smoke Detectors Save Lives

10/20/2020 (Permalink)

Smoke Alarms are a simple way to alert homeowners before a fire can destroy lives!

In homes, smoke alarms should be in every bedroom and on every level, including the basement. In office and commercial spaces, check your state requirements or contact the local Fire Marshall to help ensure all codes are met.

Test smoke alarms monthly using the test button. Smoke alarms without batteries that are wired into the home need to be replaced every ten years, regardless of if they seem to still be working. Other types of alarms need their batteries replaced once a year, and the unit itself replaced every ten years. If the alarm chirps "low battery," take the proper steps to replace the unit or batteries immediately. Don't put it off, you may forget.

In larger commercial facilities, hard wired or wireless smoke detectors offer benefits like not needing to be tested as often, and activating in the entire building, even if the smoke is in just one area.

If you need help installing a smoke detector or alarm contact your local fire department, a licensed electrician, or the American Red Cross.

Pet Fire Safety

10/19/2020 (Permalink)

Approximately 500,000 pets are affected by fires every year, according to the United States Fire Administration. Promote the safety of the people and animals in your home in the event of a fire emergency by planning ahead. From preventative caution to making an evacuation plan that includes pet safety, here are three pet preparation steps you can take today.

It's important to keep animals away from open flames such as candles. Make sure your candles are in a secure location that cannot be knocked over. 

In the event of a fire, if your pets are not able to make it out of the house with you, let the responding firefighters know that. They will do everything they can to recover your animals from the home. 

Make sure you have all your pets records in a secure place so they can be accessed in the event of a fire. 

Pets are like family. Make sure they are apart of your fire evacuation plan. 

Fire Pit Tips

10/14/2020 (Permalink)

Here on the MS Gulf Coast, it's common to hang out by the fire pit! Here are some tips to keep you and your family safe this Fall.

Backyard Fire Pit Safety Tips:

Whether you prefer a built-in or portable fire pit, choose one that is not too large for the area. The pit should be a minimum of 10 feet away from any structures or combustible materials as well as away from trees, fences, sheds, power lines, and telephone wires.

Make sure that the seating area is large enough and properly placed for comfort and ventilation.

Check wind direction before lighting a fire.

Don’t use flammable fluids (gasoline, lighter fluid, etc.) to light or relight fires.

To start the fire, use a lighter to ignite crumpled pieces of paper covered with small sticks. Then, add larger sticks and a log or two to keep it burning. 

Burn only dry material. Damp material will create excess smoke. 

Don’t wear flammable clothing (like nylon) or any loose-fitting clothing.

Never leave the fire unattended, and keep pets and children far away from the fire as they will be attracted to it.

Keep a fire extinguisher, garden hose, or bucket of water nearby.

As the fire dies down, use a shovel and spread out the ashes to allow them to cool down. Then slowly pour water over those ashes and watch them closely to be sure that no burning embers remain or reignite. Put the cooled ashes in a specially designated ash storage metal can.

Grilling Safety Tips

10/14/2020 (Permalink)

Every year we see house fires related to backyard grilling. Here are our helpful grilling safety tips. Did you know that on average 8,900 house fires are caused by grilling each year? And, an average of 7,000 Americans are injured while using backyard grills each year? We didn't either.

Don't Let a Grilling Accident Ruin your Fun

• Set up the grill at least 10 ft away from the home - this includes 10 ft away from your wooden deck! Do not grill on the deck.
• Favorite team playing? Bring your radio or TV outside. Don't leave a grill unattended.
• Only turn on the gas when the grill lid is open.
• Raining outside? Wait for it to pass. Don't operate a backyard grill indoors.
• Check for gas leaks before use.
• Dirty grill? Clean it before using. Cleaning regularly prevents grease buildup - AKA more fuel for your fire.
• Prepare for the unexpected. Even the most experienced cooks can have a fire. Keep a fire extinguisher nearby and know how to use it.

Understand Accidents Happen

SERVPRO of Hattiesburg is equipped to handle any sized smoke or fire loss. Whether it's your home or your business, we know that fires happen when they are least expected. And, we understand that fire and smoke damage can be stressful. Fast response and quick mitigation by our team of trained professionals are keys in reducing the amount of damage and time that you spend out of your home or business. Let us make it "Like it never even happened." We are available 24/7: 601-544-0512 or 228-467-4450

Residential House Fire

10/14/2020 (Permalink)

This attic was affected by water, smoke and fire. This photo was taken during the initial walk-through before work was performed.

We performed fire and smoke restoration in this home. The cause of the fire was car engine overheating in the garage. While the fire damage was largely confined to the garage, soot and smoke odor traveled throughout the home affecting 100% of our customer's structure and content. There was also water damage in the Kitchen, Laundry, Garage, and Finished Attic where the fire was put out by first responders.

SERVPRO of Hattiesburg was called in to clean up the damage. Our team of experts evaluated contents and structure to determine what could be restored. We performed the following services:

• Contents Evaluation and Inventory
• Move Out and Content Restoration
• Walls, Ceiling, and Hard Floor Cleaning
• Carpet Cleaning
• Water Removal and Dehumidification
• Textile Cleaning
• Deodorization

During the final walk-through, our customer said, "Everything looks fantastic. You made a difficult process extremely easy!"

We are so grateful for the opportunity to serve our community. From Hattiesburg all the way down to the MS Gulf Coast, we are YOUR disaster restoration contractor, and we are here for you. If you experience fire or water damage, reach out to our team of professionals: 601-544-0512 or 228-467-4450 

National Preparedness Month: Week 3

9/14/2020 (Permalink)

September: National Preparedness Month

Week #3 – September 13^th-19^th, Goal: Educate Yourself About Disasters and Emergencies

Different areas have different threats for natural disasters, along with non-natural disasters. For this week of National Preparedness Month, take the list of disasters you may experience, and visit www.ready.gov/be-informed to learn more about each one. Each of these emergencies are covered in depth through ready.com: household chemical emergencies, hurricanes, landslides & debris flow, nuclear power plants, pandemic, power outages, radiological dispersion device, severe weather, snowstorms & extreme cold, space weather, thunderstorms & lightning, tornadoes, tsunamis, volcanoes, wildfires, active shooter, attacks in public places, avalanches, bioterrorism, chemical emergencies, cybersecurity, drought, earthquakes, explosions, extreme heat, floods, hazardous materials incidents, and home fires.

There is also information about what you can do to recover from these disasters. Some of the subjects include how to get involved with the community, citizens corps, community emergency response team, talking to your neighborhood/neighbors about their plans, and lists of organizations active during disasters.  

Other Resources for Your Use:

Parents of Young Children www.ready.gov/kids

Business Owners www.ready.gov/business.

National Preparedness Month

9/11/2020 (Permalink)

National Preparedness Month

September is National Preparedness Month, recognized to promote community disaster planning. Preparing yourself, your loved ones, and your property for a disaster is crucial, especially in the unpredictable year of 2020. Ready.gov offers weekly National Preparedness Month themes to help organize your preparations:

Week 1 (September 1st-5th): Make a Plan

Determine lines of communication, designated meeting places in case of separation, and responsibilities for each member of your household.  Depending on the needs of your family, you may require additional planning steps.

Week 2 (September 6th-12th): Build a Kit

Gather supplies for each member of your family.  You kit may include food, clean water, medications, pet foods, communication devices, and batteries.  Keep your kit as compact as possible, and in an easily accessible location, in case evacuation becomes necessary.

Week 3 (September 13th-19th): Prepare for Disaster

On the MS Gulf Coast, one of the most common disasters you may face is a hurricane.  To prepare for such an event, be sure to follow local and national news as it pertains to hurricane tracking, check your insurance coverage, and make sure your disaster preparedness kit is built. If a storm is forecasted to hit in your area, follow the direction of local officials concerning shelter and evacuation orders.

Week 4 (September 20th-26th): Teach Youth About Preparedness

Make sure children’s needs are included in your preparations.  Include their items in your disaster kit, talk with them about protocols and procedures in the event of a disaster situation, and answer any questions they may have.

As a leader in clean up and restoration, SERVPRO of Hattiesburg is Here to Help in the event your property is damaged by a hurricane or other disaster situation. Our team is “Faster to Any Size Disaster!”  To learn more about our services, call 601-544-0512 or 228-467-4450.

For more information about National Preparedness Month, visit https://www.ready.gov/september

National Preparedness Month: Week 1 & 2

9/11/2020 (Permalink)

Week #1 – September 1st-5th, Goal: Make A Plan.

The goal of this week can be accomplished in 4 simple steps.

Step #1- Put a Plan Together

Different areas of the county are more at risk for different types of natural disasters. Your first step to put together a plan is to assess what disasters are the most heavy in your area, and make a list. Once you have a list, it will then help you with the rest of the steps.

With your list in mind, ask yourself these questions.  

•How will I receive emergency alerts and warnings?

•What is my shelter plan?

•What is my evacuation plan?

•What is my household communication plan?

•Do I need to update my emergency preparedness kit?

This will help you identify anything you may have forgotten, and help you find holes in your plan.

Step #2- Consider Specific Needs in Your Household

You can easily look up lists of items to have on hand in case of an emergency, but this step makes your supplies list specific to your family’s needs. Look at each member, and think of any daily items they may need that is not on the list. This can include the daily care of infants/small children, elderly family members, how each member communicates, pets, or anyone with specialized medical equipment or medicine. Having these items on hand is very important when disaster strikes, and you may not be able to easily obtain them.

Step #3- Fill Out a Family Emergency Plan

https://www.ready.gov/sites/default/files/2020-03/create-your-family-emergency-communication-plan.pdf

Above is the Family Emergency Plan that ready.gov has put out to use. Whether you choose to use this one or not, it is a great reference in what information to have!

Step #4- Practice Your Plan with Your Family/Household

Now that you have your plan started, practicing and running over this plan thoroughly will help you identify any other weaknesses. It may also help your family members feel safe and comfortable after discussing this hard topic, especially with small children. Making sure they feel fully prepared and safe is a great way to put their minds at ease!  

Week #2 – September 6th-12th, Goal: Build A Kit  

The goal of an emergency kit is to help your family survive without assistance for at least 3 days.

Basic Kit Items:

•Water (for each person)

•Food (for each person) Hand crank can opener

•Local maps

•Cell phone chargers & a backup, portable battery

•First aid kit

•Whistle

•Dust masks & cloth masks

•Battery operated radio and/or weather radio

•Flashlights

•Extra batteries

•Wipes

•Trash bags

•Wrench & pliers (for cutting off emergency lines)

•Plastic sheeting & duct tape

Additional items to consider including:

•Cash

•Sleeping bag or blanket for each person

•Complete change of clothing for each person (including shoes)

•Fire extinguisher

•Activities for any children

•Soap & hand sanitizer

•Matches (make sure to store in a waterproof container!)

•Personal hygiene products

•Disposable paper products

•Prescription & over the counter medication

•Contact lens solution (if applicable)

•Copies of important family documents, in waterproof container or saved electronically

•If applicable: formula, bottles, diapers, wipes & diaper rash cream

•If applicable: pet food & water

Maintaining Your Home Kit:

Now that your kit is stocked and ready to go, you will need to update it regularly. A good idea is to update the kit each time you take a look at your emergency plan you created last week. This ensures it is kept up to date, and all items are ready to be used at any time. This also gives you the chance to update any specific items. For example: if an infant no longer needs bottles, remove those items from the kit to save room. You may then need to add in some jars of baby food.

Other Kits:

Now that you are on a roll, consider making smaller kits for work, and to keep in your vehicle. These kits should be much smaller and are a lot easier to create.

Your Work Kit should prepare you to stay at work for at least 24 hours. Also include a comfortable pair of walking shoes in this kit, as you may not be wearing comfortable shoes at work when an emergency takes place.

Your Car Kit should always be in all cars you may have. This kit should include jumper cables, flares or reflective triangles, an ice scraper, extra cell phone charger (with car charger), blanket, map and cat litter or sand (to help you gain traction if stuck). 

Labor Day 2020 Safety Tips

9/2/2020 (Permalink)

Labor Day means cookouts, fireworks, and even campfires as people take advantage of one of the end of Summer.

It is definitely relaxing and fun to enjoy a backyard fire with friends and loved ones, but it’s important to make sure everyone involved stays safe.Here's a few easy fire protection and prevention tips:

Remember this list of four Labor Day fire safety tips:

1. Keep a bucket of water close by. On the off chance that something floating out of your fire catches nearby items on fire, you don't want to have to run to get water to put it out.  With water right there, you can quickly and safely extinguish the issue.
2. Don’t let barbecue grease accumulate. Built up grease and food on a grill grate has a high likelihood of igniting. Before, during, and after using your grill, clean the grate using a wire brush.
3. Inspect the area around your BBQ and campfire.  Make sure to keep as many flammable items away from your grill or fire as possible.  Paper plates and napkins catching on fire are a leading cause of fire damage during Labor Day weekend.  This is especially important if you are grilling near your house or on a deck.
4. Completely extinguish the fire when you are finished. Never leave a grill unattended after cooking, and never go to sleep without ensuring that it is fully out.  A breeze can send embers that are still hot into the air, and they could land on your roof or other parts of your home, leading to a fire.

If you happen to have any fire damage to your home or business, call SERVPRO of Hattiesburg at 601-544-0512 or 228-467-4450

20 Tips for a Safe Labor Day Weekend

9/2/2020 (Permalink)

2020 Labor Day weekend is here! Whether you are relaxing at the beach, hanging by the pool, or enjoying the outdoors, it's important to stay safe! Here are 20 safety tips from the American Red Cross.

DRIVING SAFETY

1. Be well rested, alert, and use your seat belts. Pay attention to speed limits and follow the rules of the road. Clean your headlights for driving at night.
2. Don’t drink and drive. Have a designated driver or call an Uber/Lyft.
3. Pay attention to the road & avoid distractions such as cellphones.
4. Use caution in work zones & look out for construction projects on the highways.
5. Don't drive too close to the person in front of you.

HEAT SAFETY

1. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, especially if drinking caffeine or alcohol.
2. Avoid extreme temperatures.
3. Wear loose, lightweight, light colored clothing. Beware the dark colors absorb the sun’s rays.
4. Avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest part of the day, and make sure to take a break from the heat...especially if you plan on spending your weekend outdoors.
5. Postpone outdoor games and activities if you feel overheated or dehydrated.

BEACH SAFETY

1. If you plan to swim in the ocean, lake or river, be cautious that conditions are different than swimming in a pool. Wear a life jacket if needed.
2. Only swim in designated swimming areas. Obey all instructions and orders from lifeguards and ask them about local conditions.
3. Make sure to always swim with someone else. Don't push your limits, and make sure you have enough energy to swim back to shore.
4. Never dive headfirst. There's no way of knowing how deep the water actually is. Walk carefully into open waters. Watch out for and avoid aquatic life. Water plants and animals can be dangerous.
5. If you are caught in a rip current, try not to panic. Signal to those on shore that you need assistance. Swim parallel to the shore until you are out of the current. Once you are free, swim toward shore. If you can't swim to the shore, float or tread water until you are free of the rip current and then head toward shore.

BE SAFE IN THE GREAT OUTDOORS

1. Take a First Aid/CPR course so that you will know what to do in case help is delayed. You’ll learn how to treat severe wounds, broken bones, bites and stings and more.
2. Know your groups level of ability in the environment around you. Plan accordingly. Sprains and falls are some of the most common accidents travelers may face.
3. Beware of dehydration. Make sure to bring enough water and stay hydrated.
4. Share your travel plans and locations with a family member, neighbor or friend.
5. Pack a First Aid Kit – be sure to include insect repellent, sunscreen and personal medications."

source: American Red Cross. link here: redcross.org

Salvaged Items | Mold Damage

8/31/2020 (Permalink)

Did you know Mold can grow on more than just your walls?

It can grow on a variety of items, from furniture to walls to wood and flooring. When it comes to mold cleaning, however, you may be surprised about the number of objects that can be salvaged when you know the steps for cleaning them properly.

1. Leather Goods

Leather bags, jackets, and other items may be salvageable if you remove them from the affected area quickly. Because mold tends to spread faster in areas with high humidity, you can perform mold remediation for these items by transferring them to a room that is cool and dry. Once the leather has dried, you can sponge the surface with diluted baby soap to wipe away visible mold. Suede goods may need to be treated by a mold cleanup and restoration company.

2. Clothing

While not all clothing can recover from mold damage, you may be able to salvage some items. An Esporta Machine, which is designed to clean cotton clothing affected by mold, smoke, and other substances, can be effective in removing mold. You may be able to soak some fabrics in diluted vinegar to remove the mold, but this depends on how fragile the fabric is. Your restoration experts may able to advise you about other mold cleaning processes.

3. Paintings

Paintings affected by mold require special treatment. You may want to remove any wooden framing, as mold is attracted by wood fibers. Store the painting flat, away from humidity and sunlight, before contacting a professional artwork restoration company. Avoid bagging or sealing it in any kind of tight container, as this may create humid conditions that could encourage further mold growth. 

What to do...

When you find mold growth on your belongings, you may not know where to begin with mold cleaning. Contacting SERVPRO of Hattiesburg for removing your items from areas where mold is present. Our team can help you salvage irreplaceable items and proceed with the rest of the cleanup with confidence.

Water Damage? What to do!

8/31/2020 (Permalink)

When water damage occurs, do you know what to do and what not to do?

Water damage can happen at any point for anyone, home or business, resulting in damaged property. These do's are only for clean water and do not’s pertain to sewage water. Sewage water is treated differently since it causes different damage and requires a different cleanup process. With the right tools and pieces of equipment, our professionals can safely dry out your home or business and the contents within it. Here are some things to always keep in mind.

• To minimize the damage, make sure to shut off the source of water and turn off the electricity. It is essential to remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and soaking up with towels. This is especially important for wood furniture. 
• To ensure that more damage isn't sustained by the furniture make sure to try and move it, if safe to do so. 
• Make sure to NOT enter a room with standing water since there could be a risk of electrical shock 
• Make sure to disconnect all power first. 
• It is recommended to NOT leave rugs and furniture upholstery wet against one another because the fabrics have the potential to bleed between each other. 
• It is important to note that you should not be utilizing your household vacuum to try and suck up any water. 

If these tips are followed, then damage can be minimized and you will be better prepared for help to arrive. Remember to stay safe and get excess water cleaned up professionally to minimize the chance of mold growth. Our Team at SERVPRO of Hattiesburg is ready to assist at a moment's notice with any of your water mitigation emergencies. Give our team a call at 601-544-0512 or 228-467-4450

Pandemic Pipe Problems

8/20/2020 (Permalink)

COVID-19 has hit Hattiesburg/MS Gulf Coast and in many ways, changed the way we live. However, that does not mean that life or problems just stop. Even though you may be at home more, real life problems still happen! Water heaters can leak, as well as A/C units and water pipes.

If you have any issue, SERVPRO of Hattiesburg wants you to know that we are still open, working, and taking on new jobs. Our highly trained and experienced staff is here to help you with whatever issues may arise. We are a locally owned company that seeks to put the communities we serve first, especially during this unfamiliar time. We are all in this together, and we want you to know that we are Here to Help.

Please do not hesitate to call SERVPRO of Hattiesburg at 601-544-0512 or 228-467-4450

Unexpected Water Loss

8/20/2020 (Permalink)

Pipe leaks, washer overflows, sewer, back ups, pump failure, toilet problems, and natural floods can wreak water havoc to your home Hattiesburg/ MS Gulf Coast home. You may feel like you have lost all control of your home, and it can only get worse if you hire a company that rips and tears your walls, furniture, carpet, and other personal belongings out of its place. This process can leave you clutching your chest in agony as well as a hole in your wallet.

Water removal in Coastal Mississippi is not an easy task. Homeowners often try to clean the water problems without consulting the experts, which can cause more damage and problems. There are a lot of components that are involved in water damage restoration. It's not something that a beginner should consider tackling. Hiring a water restoration company is a smart decision because they have all the tools that are needed to take out extra water to prevent further damage. Plus, a thorough cleaning and drying process would require an experienced water damage restoration service.

SERVPRO of Hattiesburg has high-tech equipment such as the extractor to help remove water from carpets and other flooring material. Air movers enhance evaporation to reduce drying time. Dehumidifiers extract water vapor from the air. After removing all the water, we use deodorizer equipment such as thermal foggers to produce the fog that has tiny particles of deodorant solutions to neutralize any odor caused by the water damage. Afterward, these technicians perform a thorough walk-through with you to make sure that you are delighted with the service.

With SERVPRO of Hattiesburg, you can expect reliable and excellent customer services and experts to get the job done. Call 601-544-0512 or 228-467-4450

Commercial Carpet Cleaning

8/19/2020 (Permalink)

Let SERVPRO of Hattiesburg help you with all your carpet cleaning needs. Here at SERVPRO of Hattiesburg, we use more than 100 exclusive cleaning products and award winning training to get your carpet looking restored and rejuvenated. Below are some common misconceptions about having your carpets professionally cleaned.

1. The only reason to have your carpets cleaned is to remove the dirt.

• In fact the IICRC standards for carpet cleaning S100, the CRI carpet and Rug institute, and United States EPA all state that: CARPETS MUST BE CLEANED FIRST FOR HEALTH, AND THEN FOR APPERARANCE. Studies conducted by the EPA have proven that the indoor air quality of many buildings is more polluted than the outdoor air.
• Carpets act like a huge filter that traps all sorts of pathogens, toxins, and bio pollutants. For example tobacco smoke is a common toxin found in soiled carpets. Tobacco smoke contains more than 4,000 different chemical compounds. Even if you, your family member or friends don’t smoke, the chemicals and so many others are picked up by your shoes, tracked into your house and deposited in your carpet.
• Therefore in addition to removing dirt and soil, you may want to consider the health issues and indoor quality issues related to pollutions in your carpets. Having your carpets cleaned at least once a year will maintain a clean environment for you, your family, and friends.

2. Having the right equipment is all a company needs to clean your carpets properly.

• This is simply not true. Many companies have top of the line equipment but do not know how you use it. You probably know someone who bought the most high tech cell phone on the market and does not know how to us it properly. The same thing happens with carpet cleaning equipment.
• At SERVPRO of Hattiesburg our equipment specialist go through extensive training with our production managers on how to properly use the equipment and the do’s and don’ts when cleaning carpets. They are also trained on more than 100 products so they know exactly what products to use on all type of carpet.

SERVPRO of Hattiesburg is dedicated to excellence. We are proud of the products we sell and the service we give. We are committed to our customers and treat them with honesty and integrity. Let us help you keep you, your family, and friends’ safe. Call us today to make an appointment to have your carpets cleaned by the professionals at SERVPRO of Hattiesburg at 601-544-0512 or 228-467-4450

3 Facts Business Owners Need to Know

8/18/2020 (Permalink)

Your commercial building can be affected by flooding from several sources. Water damage can include warped flooring and moldy drywall, but one of the more immediate issues caused by flooding is the influx of contaminated water. If your business has recently been damaged by flooding, it can be helpful to understand how this type of water can cause long-term damage and what you can do to mitigate it. 

1. It Can Contain Dangerous Chemicals 

Environmental experts often call contaminated water that stems from flooding Category 3. This means the water did not come from a sterile source and may contain a variety of hazardous components, including harsh sewer and lawn chemicals that entered the water during flooding. These chemicals can make the water dangerous to touch, so calling in a flood damage and cleanup service is the safest way to have it removed. 

2. It May Make You Sick 

Category 3 water damage can be dangerous in more than one way. For example, standing black water can grow microbes that may cause a variety of health effects. Urine and feces may also be present, even if they are not immediately visible, so it is wise to avoid this type of water completely and wait for professional cleanup services to arrive. 

3. Acting Quickly Can Be Essential 

Because contaminated water can become more dangerous the longer it sits, it is a good idea to call in a cleanup crew right away. This can be important even if you believe the worst of the damage has already been done. Having the water removed may reduce the chances of long-term issues with your building’s affected floors and walls and prevent mold growth, which can be difficult to treat once it takes hold. 

Cat 3 water damage can harm your  commercial building in several ways. However, when you know its dangers and how to combat it, you may be able to prevent the worst of the destruction.

If your commercial building has experienced a water emergency call SERVPRO of Hattiesburg at 601-544-0512 or 228-467-4450

Commercial Damage Levels

8/18/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Hattiesburg has the capability to handle commercial damages.

There are so many factors that can contribute to commercial damage occurring such as fires due to unforeseen circumstances, facility usage which puts wear and tear on your property, down to the most basic water damage. No matter the source of the damage, this downtime can be costly both to your business and your customers.  When damage at your commercial property happens, how do you know to what level and extent? Below we have a grading system we use to determine the level of which your property is assessed and categorized to begin mitigation.  

Level 1

Small commercial loss typically involving 15,000 square feet or less of affected floor space. If the facility was entirely affected, examples of a small commercial loss may include but are not limited to, a stand-alone retail establishment, a small church, a daycare facility, a small shopping center, a small warehouse or manufacturing facility, or a stand-alone administrative building. A Level 1 loss can also be a small portion of a much larger structure.

Level 2

Midsize commercial loss typically involving 15,000 to 60,000 square feet of affected floor space. The building or buildings involved are usually multi-level or greatly divided spaces. If the facility was entirely affected, examples of a Level 2 loss may include but are not limited to, a small multi-family property, a midsize church or school, a small shopping center, a multi-tenant administration facility, or a midsize warehouse or manufacturing facility. A Level 2 loss can also be just a portion of a much larger structure.

Level 3

Large commercial loss typically involving more than 60,000 square feet of affected floor space. The building or buildings involved will likely be large multi-level structures. If the facility was entirely affected, examples of a Level 3 loss can include but are not limited to, a large church, hospital, school, or university; a large multi-family property; a mid- to high-rise retail or administration facility; a large industrial, manufacturing, or warehouse facility; or a large strip-style shopping center or shopping mall. This is the level at which it would be appropriate to refer to the project as a “large loss.” Once our team determines the level of loss, the property is further assessed, and a team of appropriate size is dispatched to get the job done quickly and efficiently. If you have damage at your Commercial property, call SERVPRO of Hattiesburg at 601-544-0512 or 228-467-4450

Natural Disasters and Your Business

8/17/2020 (Permalink)

Natural disasters can be terrifying. Especially if they affect your home or business, and those that depend on you. Although it’s scary to think about, there are a wide variety of different catastrophes that could strike your business, including floods, hurricanes, tornado, fires, and more.  If one of these unfortunate events happens, you don’t want to find yourself unprepared! Discover the most important steps to take following a major disaster so you can recover quickly and safely.  

1.     Assess the Situation

As soon as the calamity has died down, check yourself and any family members to make sure no one is hurt. If you have any nearby neighbors, see if they are in need of any help. Turn off the gas and electricity in your home if it safe to do so, and avoid entering your home for a while, as there could be damage to your floors or ceilings that could cause them to collapse.

2.     Finding Food and Shelter

If your business no longer has running water, you can obtain it through emergency sources, such as rainwater, your hot water tank, your toilet reservoir, or ice cube trays. Shelters are usually assembled by the American Red Cross in emergency situations for those whose homes are too damaged to stay in; look for one of these if you feel your home or business is dangerous. The Federal Emergency Management Agency, as well as local churches and community services, are also good resources for any needs you might have in these dire situations.

3.     Be Cautious

Disasters always leave a trail of destruction behind; be wary of contaminated floodwaters, fallen power lines, or any criminals taking advantage of all the chaos. Don’t turn the gas back on in your home, as there could be a leak, and make sure your house is ventilated if you’re cooking over your fireplace.

4.     Recovering Important Information

One of the last steps of disaster rehabilitation and recovery is to salvage as many of the important documents from the wreckage, such as your insurance policies, birth certificates, driver’s license, deeds, wills, financial statements, and any other precious information. Although these procedures might be difficult, it will help you and your family recover from this crisis as quickly as possible.

Call SERVPRO of Hattiesburg with all Your Disaster Rehabilitation Needs!

If a disaster has affected your home, call SERVPRO of Hattiesburg for all your cleanup needs! Our disaster restoration services are available 24/7, 365 days per year; they include water and flood damage cleanup, mold remediation, odor control, reconstruction services, trauma cleanup, and fire and smoke damage cleanup. Don’t wait another moment if your home has been devastated! Call us today! 601-544-0512 or 228-467-4450

Flood Waters in Your Business

8/17/2020 (Permalink)

For Homes, Businesses, Schools & More…

After the flood waters recede and the debris is cleaned up, most people will want to begin rebuilding as quickly as possible.  While it is understandable to try to get back into a home or business as quickly as possible to try to retain some normalcy, problems can occur when trying to rebuild too quickly.  Flood waters have likely submerged the wood causing it to absorb large amounts of water. Beginning the rebuild process too quickly can lead to mold growth, insect infestation, and rotten wood.

Flood waters are filthy.  They contain bacteria, viruses, waste particles, and all kinds of gross contaminants.  Materials that are more porous, like drywall and carpet, must be removed and replaced.

CAUTION!  Make sure you inspect for structural and electrical damage from outside to determine if it is safe to enter.  Electrical safety is extremely important in floods. Check for fire hazards and gas leaks. Use battery-powered lights.  Wear sturdy, rubber shoes, rubber gloves, and eye protection. If mold is present, wear a respirator with a HEPA filter.  

If you need assistance getting your home or business back together, call SERVPRO of Hattiesburg at 601-544-0512 or 228-467-4450

Techniques to Restore your Hattiesburg/ MS Gulf Coast Home

8/17/2020 (Permalink)

Water Damage on the MS Gulf Coast Could Cause Problems With Your Furnishings

One day everything could be fine at your Hattiesburg/ Gulf Coast residence, then you wake up the next day to find that your refrigerator's ice machine has malfunctioned and spilled water all over your house. When leaks go unnoticed for a long time, moisture can quickly spread and cause water damage inside your kitchen and other rooms next to it, like your living room or dining area. Once carpets get saturated, your furniture can get negatively affected.

Whenever we work towards restoring water damage inside your Hattiesburg home, our SERVPRO team starts by testing for moisture and looking for visible issues. Before we start any restoration procedures, we test items in the affected room like your drywall and upholstered furniture. Once we determine exactly what got wet, we can then formulate the best plan to quickly remove moisture from your contents and building materials.

If our SERVPRO technicians find that furniture like your couch or recliner chair got wet, we can take steps to extract and dry out the items to prevent problems from occurring. Moisture most often causes the following four problems with any of your upholstered furniture items such as your couch.

1.  Swelling

Most couches and other upholstered furniture are made up of wooden frames that can swell when they get wet. Once parts of the frame on your furniture swells joints can weaken, which can affect your furniture's structural integrity.

2.  Water Spotting

Some materials can get stained by water damage and show visible water spots. In some cases, we can remove these by wetting the entire piece of furniture.

3.  Color Bleeding

Dust covers on furniture can sometimes bleed colors when wet and cause discoloration on other parts of the furniture or your floor. Metal buttons can also rust and cause rust staining on fabrics.

4.  Mildew Growth

Since most furniture is made with organic substances like wood, mold and mildew can grow if the item is not dried out quickly.

Many of our techniques can help reduce problems that could ruin your furniture. If your couch ever gets wet after a water leak, call SERVPRO of Hattiesburg 24/7 at 601-544-0512 or 228-467-4450. Once we are finished, we will restore your home to the way it was before the leak occurred and make it seem, "Like it never even happened."

Smoke Characteristics

8/17/2020 (Permalink)

Fire Damage Restoration Process in Hattiesburg/ MS Gulf Coast Properties

Smoke is one of the predictable byproducts of fires in homes. However, most people are not aware of the different variations of smoke produced, and the implications they might have on a property. SERVPRO of Hattiesburg helps cleanup damage from all types of smoke in Hattiesburg/ MS Gulf Coast properties.

Which colors does smoke commonly exhibit?

You can simplify the process of fire damage restoration in your Hattiesburg/ MS Gulf Coast home if you are observant enough to note the color of smoke emitted from your property as fire burns. The common color variations include:

•Black smoke

•White smoke

•Grey smoke

Smoke contains different substances, including aerosols, particulate matter, and moisture. When smoke looks whitish, it is an indicator of a higher percentage of aerosols or water vapor in its composition. The outcome under such circumstances may involve a widespread accumulation of wet smoke residues on surfaces. Our SERVPRO of Hattiesburg crew can help you deal with the challenging cleanup process using advanced approaches such as soda blasting or surface stripping.

How damaging is a fire burning with black smoke?

Dark smoke can indicate several things, including:

•Incomplete combustion of materials fueling the fire

•Burning of synthetic materials 

•The fire being highly volatile

Various challenges can arise after you notice a fire burning with thick dark smoke. For instance, the extreme heat from the scorching fire can push residues deeper into surfaces, making it tougher to clean the area or remove odors. The fire might also leave thick layers of residues all over the property, burdening you with extract cleaning steps. 

Our SERVPRO of Hattiesburg technicians prepare well to handle such cleaning situations with various resources, such as automated agitation equipment. We also have specially formulated cleaning products that help strip down residues from surfaces faster.

Smoke characteristics, including its color, connect with many aspects of the resulting damage. An experienced team from SERVPRO of Hattiesburg can help you address the challenges the situations present. Call us at 601-544-0512 or 228-467-4450. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster

Do Wet Vacuums Remove Standing Water?

8/14/2020 (Permalink)

We have many extraction tools, including wet vacuums, to prepare the property for thorough drying efforts. 

Regarding extraction for your Hattiesburg/ AL Gulf Coast home or condo after a water loss incident, there are many tools and pieces of equipment that could be beneficial to this effort. Standing water can be a common threat after substantial disasters impact your property, so fast response by competent restoration professionals makes a difference in how quickly the house gets dried and even the ability of our team to protect structural elements and contents.

Wet vacuums are among the most standard choices for water removal in your MS Gulf Coast/ Hattiesburg residence.These units are versatile and lightweight, making them easy to move from one portion of the house to another during the extraction phase. When water depths do not exceed two inches, wet vacuums remain the top choice to remove surface water and even trapped moisture in materials like carpeting and hardwood floors.

What Other Extraction Tools Can Professionals Use? 

As much of a place as wet vacuums have in the water removal needs of your damaged home or condo, other tools in our inventory also have a role in this vital mitigation effort. The choice in which extraction tools get used in specific situations falls to the inspection conducted by our project manager and crew chief before restoration begins. Often, the factors and play and choosing from the versatile array of options are the severity of the damage, the location of the surface water, and the specific materials affected. Some of the top machines for water removal include:

• Electric Submersible Pumps
• Trash Pumps
• High-Pressure Pumps
• Truck-Mount Extractors

Between water removal and the drying of your damaged property, you can count on the fast response of our SERVPRO of Hattiesburg professionals. We have many tools and technologies that we can deploy quickly to make water losses “Like it never even happened.” Give us a call today at 601-544-0512

Flood Damage Recovery Surprises

8/14/2020 (Permalink)

Flooding in your Hattiesburg/ MS Gulf Coast business is already enough of a crisis. Unfortunately, as professionals mitigate and remediate the harm, it is not uncommon for owners to confront snags in the process. If the flood waters unleash compounding factors during the onslaught and the recovery, you need a restoration partner who can adapt their response to any unexpected twists and turns when secondary damage occurs.

What Are Examples of Secondary Damage or Discovered Hazards?

Your commercial building might harbor hidden materials brought to light during flood damage. When structural components break, erode, or strip away protective coverings during the rush of water or attempts to restore the chaos, the process might need to come to a halt. If the following materials are discovered a change in the recovery plan is necessary:

• Asbestos
• Lead painted surfaces
• A wide range of chemicals, stored or swept inside, now contaminating the flood water
• Mold growth

How Can I Handle the Presence of Biohazards and Mold Discovered During the Flood Recovery Process?

When SERVPRO is your commercial flood damage recovery contractor in the Hattiesburg/ MS Gulf Coast area, the unveiling of biohazards and mold triggers the inclusion of remediation phases for each challenge. Our team includes trained, licensed, and experienced managers and technicians who can jump in whenever needed to secure the scene and take care of the interruption. We commit to:

• Containing the affected spaces and the hazardous substances
• Collecting the harmful materials, residues, and contaminated fluids
• Disposing of the mold and biohazardsas required under local regulations

Rely on SERVPRO of Hattiesburg to recognize new issues mid-project and integrate their resolution into the overarching restoration plan. Call on us at 601-544-0512 for a full-spectrum of services to get you back in business fast after flood damage.

Water damage can be very detrimental to your home or business

7/29/2020 (Permalink)

The longer you wait after having water damage the more damage you are causing to your home or business. When you have water damage the best thing to do is shut off the water source that is causing the damage. If the damage is coming from something you are unable to cut off, you may need to contact a plumber in your area. Once this is completed, you will want to call the professional here at SERVPRO® of Hattiesburg. No matter how big or small, we will be able to help get it under control.Water damage can be difficult to spot but some signs you can look for in your home and business:

• Water rings on your ceiling or walls
• Soft or sagging on your ceiling or walls
• Wet or soggy carpets
• Warping in your wood flooring

The best thing to do is call an expert right away before the problem gets worse. Our highly trained technicians are waiting for your call. We have our specialized equipment ready to use to get to your emergency mitigated as soon as possible. Don’t wait until the problem gets worse, call our highly trained team at SERVPRO® of Hattiesburg 601-544-0512 or 228-467-4450.

How Professional Standards Strengthen Mold Cleanup

7/29/2020 (Permalink)

When you discover mold in your home in MS Gulf Coast home, you want a mold remediation company that works to the highest professional standards. This ensures the job will be done right and your property and family will be protected. A certified mold technician understands the nature of this damaging fungus and how to remove mold colonies from your home. The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification is an industry leader in promoting high standards for the cleaning industry. The organization publishes standards for professional mold remediation and for the assessment for suspected mold contaminated structures. These standards are mostly voluntary but they have been developed through a rigorous process to determine the best practices for mitigating mold.

Mold Certification

It is not mandatory for a cleaning company to be a certified mold franchise; however, many insurance companies prefer to work with a business that engages in certified mold remediation. The benefits of choosing a professional company include the following:

• Highly-trained technicians
• Fast, effective cleanup
• Safe cleaning agents and disinfectants
• Advanced equipment and techniques
• Best practices
  
  

A highly-trained company provides continuous education to its employees, allowing technicians to stay current on the latest and most effective cleaning procedures. Positions such as an applied microbial remediation specialist, water damage restoration technician, and applied structural drying technician contribute to better mold containment.

Mold Cleanup

A certified mold company follows a proven process to clear your home of troublesome mold colonies. Technicians begin with an inspection and assessment of the property. They work fast because a delay allows mold to spread throughout a home, especially into areas that have high moisture content due to a water leak or roofing problem. The steps of mold containment, air filtration and the removal of mold and mold-infested materials quickly follow. The final stages of the process include the cleaning of contents and belongings and restoration of your home.

Call SERVPRO of Hattiesburg at 601-544-0512 or 228-467-4450

Steps To Take After Your Retail Store Floods

6/6/2020 (Permalink)

If your retail business floods, you must act as quickly as possible to salvage what you can and minimize the ongoing destruction that will come from standing water and saturation. If this happens you may feel like there is so much to take care of you don’t know where to start. Here are some important first steps to take after your retail store floods.

•Safety first, of course. It’s important to move quickly, but it’s more important to protect yourself while you assess the damage. There are many dangers that you might encounter when returning to your flooded property, such as:
-infectious and diarrheal diseases – floodwater can contain some really unhealthy stuff
-fuels, solvents and other industrial chemicals in floodwater
-drowning or being wounded by submerged objects are possible hazards in a flooded basement or storage area, as well as in moving or standing water
-electrical hazards – watch for downed power lines or underground electrical service exposed by erosion. Do not enter your flooded building if the electrical power is on or if you can see obvious structural damage
•Assess the damage. Walk the perimeter of the property first, taking pictures and/or shooting some video footage to document what you find.
-Look for erosion that has left walls unstable or exposed utilities like underground electrical service or gas, sewer, or freshwater supply lines.
-If electrical or gas lines are exposed, call an electrician or your power company. These are situations that are potentially deadly. Get professional help before entering the building.
•Remove all water and dry everything as quickly as possible. If your retail store has suffered significant flooding, professional help will probably be best, and you will want to choose a company that knows mold. A mold colony can become established in 24 hours after a flooding event, and that will be a disaster for your business, affecting your fixtures and product, and therefore your livelihood.

Our SERVPRO of Hattiesburg team is here to help you if you suffer a flooding event. We are mold remediation experts, too!

The Importance of Containment

6/6/2020 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Hattiesburg, building a containment is a critical part of our restoration, remediation, and abatement projects. These barriers, often made with poly-sheeting held in place by tape, are used for a range of jobs. This may include the abatement of mold, lead, and asbestos, the clean-up of damage caused by fire, smoke, or water, or to keep contaminants and even crime scenes contained. Containment systems are also useful in reconstruction projects, particularly where stone or wood cutting occurs and particles such as sawdust are released into the air. 

Building an airtight containment is paramount to protecting interiors during restoration projects and minimizing the risk of contact with hazardous materials during abatement. Containments serve to:

• Prevent potentially hazardous substances such as mold spores, asbestos, lead-based paint, and silica dust from spreading throughout the entire structure. These substances are very small and can easily hitch a ride on normal air currents found in most buildings.
• Address concerns for health and safety, especially where airborne hazardous materials are present. If not contained properly, these materials can cause health complications and affect the well-being of nearby tenants, workers, and others in the surrounding area.
• Function as a barrier to keep dust and other particles confined within a work space, prevent further property damage, and make clean-up easier. Without proper containment, the cost of the loss can increase dramatically.

Containing the site remains not only a priority, but a necessity. A safer work site benefits all parties, and mold testing is more likely to pass the first time, reducing the cost of re-cleaning and re-testing. When you call SERVPRO of Hattiesburg, you can rely on us to construct a proper containment and restore your home or business back to new.

Hurricane Ready Kit

6/5/2020 (Permalink)

Build A Kit

2020 Hurricane Season is here and we want to help you prepare NOW! After an emergency, you may need to survive on your own for several days. Being prepared means having your own food, water and other supplies to last for at least 72 hours. A disaster supplies kit is a collection of basic items your household may need in the event of an emergency.

Basic Disaster Supplies Kit

To assemble your kit store items in airtight plastic bags and put your entire disaster supplies kit in one or two easy-to-carry containers such as plastic bins or a duffel bag.

A basic emergency supply kit could include the following recommended items:

•Water (one gallon per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation)

•Food (at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food)

•Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert

•Flashlight

•First aid kit

•Extra batteries

•Whistle (to signal for help)

•Dust mask (to help filter contaminated air)

•Plastic sheeting and duct tape (to shelter in place)

•Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties (for personal sanitation)

•Wrench or pliers (to turn off utilities)

•Manual can opener (for food)

•Local maps

•Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery

Source: https://www.ready.gov/kit

The Fire Restoration Process

6/1/2020 (Permalink)

When it comes to fire damage, preparation is the key.

The first 48 hours after a fire often can be the difference between "restoring" vs. "replacing" your property and/or personal items. SERVPRO of Hattiesburg provides timely response with restoration services ranging from fire, smoke, and soot removal, to content claims inventory and document restoration.

If you have experienced fire damage in your home or business, here is what to expect from us:

One Hour: Within one hour from notice of loss, a priority responder will contact you.

Four Hours: Within four hours of loss notification, our certified technicians will be onsite to assess the damage.

Eight Hours: Within eight hours of on-site arrival, certified technicians will be working neatly and efficiently to clean, restore, and deodorization. Pre-cleaning for restoration, to prevent any further damage from soot and smoke.

Detailed Explanation: A trained and uniformed technician will walk you through the job process step-by-step, explaining what to expect and the anticipated outcome. We then use state-of-the-art restoration techniques to ensure your home or business is back to normal in an appropriate timeframe.

Final Walk-through: After the work has been completed, a final walk-through will be conducted with you to help ensure your satisfaction.

Candle Fire Safety

6/1/2020 (Permalink)

Candle use is often the cause of many preventable home fires. It is estimated that candles cause more than 15,000 home fires every year, many of which result in injury or even death. More than half of these fires start because the candles are too close to combustible materials, which is something that is easily preventable.

Here are a few tips that can help you practice candle safety at home:

•Burning candles should never be left unattended, and be sure to keep candles away from anything flammable.

•If your candle is in a candle holder, it should be sturdy enough to avoid being easily knocked over. Candles should be placed where children and pets can’t reach them.

•Candle wicks should be trimmed to ¼ inch each time before burning. Long wicks can cause uneven burning and dripping. Keep the pool of wax in the candle clear of debris such as wick trimmings. 

•Read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for candle use. Most candles should be burned for only a couple of hours at a time.

•Extinguish candles with a candle snuffer rather than blowing them out, as hot wax can splatter.

Flameless candles are a safe alternative to lit candles and produce a similar soft, glowing effect. Lit candles are not recommended for use during power outages, so use battery-powered flashlights, lanterns and even flameless candles instead.

Finally, any talk of candle safety is incomplete without a reminder to check all smoke alarms in your home. Working smoke alarms in your home will greatly increase your chances of surviving a home fire, so check them every month to ensure they are working properly.

Here at SERVPRO Hattiesburg we care about your safety. Call us if you experience fire damage, water damage, or issues from a mold infestation. 601-544-0512 or 228-467-4450

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned Standard Description of Services

5/27/2020 (Permalink)

Standard Description of Services 

Certified: SERVPRO® Cleaned means professionally trained SERVPRO of Hattiesburg employees perform requested cleaning, sanitizing and disinfection services to commercial properties. Certified: SERVPRO® Cleaned program ranges from standard to enhanced services and are intended to limit the survival and spread of emerging viral pathogens. 

Here is a general description of standard and enhanced services. It is up to the SERVPRO® of Hattiesburg representative and the property owner or owner representative to determine which service is best suited for the specific situation. 

Standard Services 

Standard services focus on cleaning and disinfectant application to frequently contacted touch points. These touch points may include: 

• Door knobs, pulls, and locks, as well as 1 square foot around the knob, pull, or door jambs 

• Push doors 

• Stair handrails, elevator car and controls 

• Light switches, switch covers, and accessible outlet covers 

• Countertops, tabletops, vanity tops, and desktops while taking measures to control overspray and limit potential damage of other items (e.g. paper products, electronic devices, personal property). Disinfection of accessible surfaces without moving contents. 

• Chair arms, backs, and height/swivel controls. 

• Faucets, sinks, soap dispenser, towel dispenser, dryer, water fountains, napkin dispenser 

• Cabinet door and drawer exterior, door and drawer pulls/knobs 

• Toilets, urinals, bathroom stalls around locks and handrails, handrails, bathroom fixtures (e.g., toilet paper dispenser and paper towel dispenser), diaper changing stations, fitting room stalls around locks and handrails 

• Telephones, computer equipment, shared office equipment, sales registers, point-of-sale equipment 

• Exterior of shelves, racking, displays, bookcases, file cabinets, lockers, or other fixtures; disinfection of accessible surfaces without moving contents 

Beyond these touch points, there may be additional frequently contacted touchpoints that may need to be cleaned and/or have disinfectant applied. Additional touch points may include operational equipment such as kitchen, fitness, manufacturing, or laundry equipment. SERVPRO of Hattiesburg will consult with the property owner/manager to determine if these items are present and mutually agree on how they will be handled. 

The following exclusions would apply unless an agreement is made prior to beginning services. SERVPRO of Hattiesburg will not clean items or surfaces that are not frequently contacted touch points.We will not clean inventory or retail merchandise. We will not be providing cleaning services to the following: Food-related items such as condiments, kitchen food boxes, kitchen food bags, kitchen food containers, beverage or anything that will be consumed by the public. 

Interested in our program? Call us at 601-544-0512

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned Enhanced Services

5/27/2020 (Permalink)

Enhanced Services

Enhanced services build upon standard services by adding cleaning and disinfectant application to less frequently contacted touchpoints. This includes all the common touchpoints that would be treated in standard services with the addition of touch points that may include non-porous surfaces such as:

• Front, sides, and backs of desks, counters, tables, and vanities (if accessible)

• Hard, non-porous contents on tables, desks, or shelves

• Wall hangings

• Windows/mirrors under 8 feet from floor

• Window/door trim

• Bathroom stall walls/doors

• Upper/lower cabinet exteriors

• File cabinet exterior

• Baseboards and the bottom 8 feet of wall surfaces

• Hard surface floors

Enhanced services could also include the cleaning and disinfectant application of porous surfaces such as:

• Carpet 

• Rugs

• Upholstery

• Cubicle walls

Cleaning of these porous materials will be limited to HEPA vacuuming or wet cleaning based on level of visible soils, type of fiber, and condition and should be evaluated on an as needed basis. 

The following exclusions would apply unless an agreement is made prior to beginning services. SERVPRO of Hattiesburg will not clean ceilings or ceiling-mounted fixtures as part of enhanced cleaning services. We will not be responsible for cleaning inventory or retail merchandise. We will not be providing cleaning and disinfecting services inside of cabinets, filing cabinets, desk drawers, refrigerators, ranges, microwaves, lockers or electronic items. We will not be providing cleaning services to the following: Food-related items such as condiments, kitchen food boxes, kitchen food bags, kitchen food containers, beverage or anything that will be consumed by the public.

Interested? Call us today 601-544-0512

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned

5/20/2020 (Permalink)

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned shield

Ushering in a new standard of clean

As America gets back to business, we all have a new sense of what it means to be clean. In fact, 89% of consumers are uneasy about going back to brick-and-mortar locations*. At SERVPRO of Hattiesburg, we’re dedicated to inspiring confidence in communities across the country as we find our way to a new normal. And we’re doing just that with Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, our new defensive pathogen cleaning program, goes way beyond standard janitorial cleaning practices. This is proactive viral pathogen cleaning. With over 50 years of experience in biochemical spill remediation and decontamination, you can trust SERVPRO of Hattiesburg Professionals to bring a higher standard of clean to the places we gather.

So how does it work? It’s grounded in our unique 3 C’s:

• Consult: Not all businesses are the same, so we’ll tailor a bespoke cleaning program based on the unique needs of each facility.

• Clean: Based on the agreed plan, an expert deep clean is initiated using our proprietary EPA-Approved Hospital-Grade cleaning solutions and always adhering to the leading level of cleaning and decontamination standards set by the CDC.

• Certify: You’ll know a business is Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned by the shield posted on their front window. Along with digital emblems and other collateral, this beacon represents their commitment to the comfort and security of their employees, customers and community.

So when you see the Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned shield, you can walk in with confidence. Because you’ll know the #1 choice in clean up and restoration was there.

Are you interested in our Commercial Services, or are you a consumer who wants to learn more?

Call us today! 601-544-0512 or 228-467-4450

Protecting your business from a storm

5/11/2020 (Permalink)

Have you taken steps to protect your business and employees on the Mississippi Gulf Coast?

When we experience a thunderstorm in the greater Hattiesburg area, it can potentially cause extensive damage to your business. Power outages downed tree limbs, and flooding from rainstorms are all possibilities. SERVPRO of Hattiesburg has a few preventative steps you can take to ensure you are able to protect your business when these storms happen.

1. Keep Your Lightning Rod Maintained

A lightning rod is a metal rod mounted on a structure and intended to protect the structure from a lightning strike. If lightning hits the structure, it will preferentially strike the rod and be conducted to ground through a wire, instead of passing through the structure, where it could start a fire or cause electrocution. If your business is located in a tall building that may attract lightning, then maintaining the lightning rod can be essential. Have the rod checked annually for damage and ask your certification professionals to verify that it is up to code. If your business is located in an area where lightning is common, it is wise to have the unit cleaned and inspected at least twice a year.  

2. Maintain All Trees on the Property  High winds can turn tree limbs into projectiles that may shatter your building’s windows and cause serious injury to your customers or employees. Make sure you are maintaining your landscaping so dead branches do not detach and strike people entering your business below. Trimming trees away from your building’s power lines can protect its power source during a thunderstorm 

3. Have a Flood Plan in Place  Having a flood plan in place can possibly prevent flooding in your business, especially in the case of mitigation services. Contacting SERVPRO of Hattiesburg before the wet season can be a wise choice because if your building should experience flooding, our team can have help on hand right away.

Tips for Protecting Yourself from Mold During Cleanup

4/29/2020 (Permalink)

Tips for Protecting Yourself from Mold During Cleanup

During the process of mold remediation, it’s important to protect yourself, and your staff, with the proper safety gear and equipment. If you’re concerned about conducting the procedure yourself, a SERVPRO of Hattiesburg mold remediation specialist may be able to help. The recommendations for a safe cleanup remain the same for everyone involved.

1. Wear Protective Clothing

When cleaning up mold growth it’s important to wear protective clothing. A coverall suit is recommended in most cases, but long sleeves tucked into gloves, and long pants may work just as well. Protective gear is an important tool for keeping any cleaning agents and mold spores off of your skin. If wearing everyday clothing instead of a protective suit, it’s important to launder them in hot water immediately after use.

2. Change Before Entering an Uncontaminated Area

Another way to protect your business is to change out of your safety gear before entering uncontaminated areas. This can help prevent the spread of mold spores into areas where mold growth has not yet occurred. The necessity of changing gear is why many professional use covers for their hair and shoes, as well as wear protective over-suits.

3. Wear a Mask and Goggles

The use of a respirator mask and protective goggles are also recommended. These can help prevent the inhalation of any cleaning fumes, and keep dust or debris common to clean up out of your eyes. The mask and goggles should fit snugly without pinching.

Using the proper equipment when cleaning up mold can help protect everyone, including the cleanup crew and the employees who regularly work in the building. Proper gear can not only help prevent the spread of mold to uncontaminated areas but allow for cleaning solutions to be used safely. If you’re unsure about the proper procedure or don’t want to conduct the cleanup yourself, a professional may be able to help.

call us at 601-544-0512 or 228-467-4450

Fire Tips for Kids

4/29/2020 (Permalink)

According to the American Burn Association, children are the most susceptible to burn injuries. 73% of all burn injuries happen in the home. At some point in time, children are going to be curious about fire, but it can be dangerous and costly.

Here are some tips to follow to keep your family safe according to the National Protection Association:

• Be sure to keep all matches and lighters out of the reach of children, preferably somewhere up high or in a locked cabinet.
• Closely supervise your children, making sure that they are away from any fire sources, including lit candles, cigarettes, fire pits, and stoves.
• Take advantage of any opportunity to teach your children about fire safety.
• Explain that fires are something to be taken seriously as they move very fast and can hurt you with contact.
• Teach young children to not touch matches or lighters, and to notify an adult immediately if found.
• Establish a clear set of rules and consequences about unsupervised and unapproved uses of fire.
• Remember, children are always watching. Make sure you set a good example by handling fire in a safe manner.
• Show your children appreciation for displaying respect and age-appropriate responsibility when it comes to fire.

If your children happen to burn themselves, cool the burn by running it under cold water for 10 to 15 minutes.

If it is a more serious burn, CALL 9-1-1.

Standing Water

4/27/2020 (Permalink)

When floodwater intrudes into your home or commercial business it can cause "standing water", which can be dangerous. Here are some precautions you can take if dealing with standing water.

Standing Water are not natural swimming pools

• Sewage, debris, and other unpleasant things can be in the standing water leftovers
• Swimming, wading, or rafting can make you sick
• Don’t drink the water
• Water conducts electricity. Underground power lines can give you a dangerous shock

Standing Water vs. Animals:

• Snakes and other animals may get into your building. Wear work boots and heavy gloves when you clean up
• Some animals might find your office a cozy place to live
• If tap water is unsafe to drink, it is unsafe for your pets

If you find yourself dealing with standing water of any kind, SERVPRO of Hattiesburg is here to make it “Like it never even happened."

Signs of Water Damage

4/27/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage can be very detrimental to your home or business

The longer you wait after having water damage the more damage you are causing to your home or business. When you have water damage the best thing to do is shut off the water source that is causing the damage. If the damage is coming from something you are unable to cut off, you may need to contact a plumber in your area. Once this is completed, you will want to call the professional here at SERVPRO® of Hattiesburg. No matter how big or small, we will be able to help get it under control.Water damage can be difficult to spot but some signs you can look for in your home and business:

• Water rings on your ceiling or walls
• Soft or sagging on your ceiling or walls
• Wet or soggy carpets
• Warping in your wood flooring

The best thing to do is call an expert right away before the problem gets worse. Our highly trained technicians are waiting for your call. We have our specialized equipment ready to use to get to your emergency mitigated as soon as possible. Don’t wait until the problem gets worse, call our highly trained team at SERVPRO® of Hattiesburg 601-544-0512 or 228-467-4450

Flood Damage Restoration For Your Mississippi Gulf Coast Home

4/25/2020 (Permalink)

As many people on the MS Gulf Coast know, flooding can easily disrupt a person’s everyday life and leave your home destroyed. If not appropriately resolved, water often causes severe damage that gets worse over time. Having the ability to restore water-damaged buildings is an invaluable service to both you and your insurance company. 

Restoring water-damaged structures requires the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) training, years of experience, and specialized equipment normally unavailable to your everyday homeowner. 

SERVPRO of Hattiesburg can help you understand the technical aspects of your flood damage restoration and provide you with the communication necessary to make the situation far less stressful. 

At SERVPRO of Hattiesburg, we use the IICRC’s Standard and Reference Guide for Professional Water Damage Restoration (S500). It presents us with a standard to adhere to when addressing flood damage in your home, with five fundamental principles.

• We provide health and safety procedures for workers and occupants.

• Document all conditions and work procedures.

• Perform damage mitigation to limit losses.

• Implement fast, efficient drying methods.

• Offer both cleaning and repair services.

SERVPRO of Hattiesburg technicians provide customers with a quick response, 24-hours a day, 7-days a week, to prevent further damage. We address many dangers that exist concerning flood damage restoration that can injure you or even take your life. Our team looks for slip, trip, and fall hazards, chemical and environmental hazards, including hazardous materials, structural, and electrical.

Regardless of how secure you think you are, safety should always be your primary concern when dealing with flood damage restoration in your home. Water itself can be dangerous – often containing biohazards that you cannot recognize without special equipment. Always think about how long water remains in your home and the possibility of mold contamination. 

If you need assistance, call SERVPRO of Hattiesburg. We can help you with all types of flood damage, cleaning, and restoration services throughout the Mississippi Gulf Coast area. We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster– call today 601-544-0512 or 228-467-4450

Protect your Hattiesburg/ MS Gulf Coast Business from Storm Damage

4/25/2020 (Permalink)

As the Mississippi Gulf Coast has been experiencing powerful storms, and 2020 Hurricane Season is nearing, we thought it’d be a good time to go over how to protect your property from water damage. 

A flooded building can wreak havoc on your business operations and day to day life. If you are concerned about flood water, it is important to do what you can now so that your business property is better protected later. Here's how you can protect your property through this storm season.

Preparing Your Building

Before a flood even occurs, you can take steps to seal your building from water. Start by applying a waterproof coating to the exterior walls. Several other steps are also important.

" Install waterproof shields over windows and doors where possible.

" Strengthen walls to stand against the pressure of flood water or flood debris.

" Seal all areas where utilities enter the building.

" Anchor the building if necessary.

Protecting the Lower Levels

Inspect your first floor to ensure there are no areas where flood water can easily enter the premises. Regrade any land that slopes into your property, extend or redirect gutter spouts and repair any cracks in the walls. Move any valuable equipment or furniture to higher ground and create digital backups of any important paper documentation.

Taking Other Safety Measures

Water damage is not the only thing to worry about during flooding. It is also important to properly anchor any fuel tanks to prevent the water from sweeping them away, which can cause the lines to break and fires or explosions to happen. Sewer backflow valves are also important.

Preparing for Restoration

No matter how well you prepare your building for a flood, at least some damage is still likely to occur. Call a well-respected restoration company to help you remove moisture, dry materials and get your property ready to do business again.

Being 100 percent prepared for a natural disaster is practically impossible, but preparing now for a later storm means getting back into the swing of things as quickly as possible after any damage happens.

2020 Hurricane Season

4/24/2020 (Permalink)

How to Prepare for a Hurricane.

This 2020 Hurricane season is estimated to be more active than previous years. It's important to know what to do before it hits to help prevent damage or loss to your property.

List of Supplies

1. An Emergency Readiness Plan for your family
2. 3 days worth of water
3. 3 days of non perishable food for each person or pet
4. First Aid Kit
5. Battery Powered Radio or radio alert 
6. Portable Power bank to charge cell phones
7. Full Tank of Gas in car
8. Batteries
9. Whistle to Signal for Help

How to Prepare Your Home

• Cover your windows with storm shutter or plywood, or use tape the glass so the broken shards stay together
• Learn if you are in an area that floods, and how to properly sand bag your home
• Clean out your rain gutters

If you’ve already experienced flooding or storm damage, don’t hesitate to reach out to SERVPRO of Hattiesburg 601-544-0512 or 228-467-4450

Different Types of Storm Damage

4/20/2020 (Permalink)

There are several types of storm damage including wind, flooding, or even fire. Flooding can cause extensive amounts of damage to your home, and lightning can create fires while high winds can cause many issues to the structure of your home.

Wind
The damage which results from extremely high winds is quite easy to see most of the time. Nowadays, roof shingles are designed better than their predecessors regarding their resistance to wind and the ever-increasing knowledge and standards. There is many times little can be done to prevent damage by wind in conditions that are very extreme. Roofs that are wind-damaged usually appear to be affected only in certain spots. The edges or perimeter of the room are affected by high winds easily, since the edge of a roof is quite prone to lifting.

Hail
Round dings in metal are clear signs of hail damage. Determining whether your roof has suffered damage from a hail storm, however, could be a bit more challenging. After hail hits the roof, it knocks off the protective granules where the hail has hit, and these areas of damage are the sources of leaks in the roof in the future if it is not fixed within a few years’ time.

Snow
Snow causes most of its damage from the weight of it, which immensely increases when ice, rain and sleet are added to it. On an average-sized roof, two feet of snow can weigh the equivalent of thirty-eight thousand pounds or nineteen tons. The obvious sign many times that a roof is about to fail is if it is sagging.

Ice
The functionality of a lot of gutter and roof systems are affected by the temperatures that fluctuate, making the snow melt then refreeze on the edge of the roof. This makes a dam which the water cannot pass through, meaning that as more snow melts off the roof and trickles down, it gets blocked by an ice dam and makes a puddle. Since roofs were not made to handle standing water, especially as the water line and growing puddle move up the roof, the water can seep through small openings in the roof into your home or attic.

Rain and Flood Damage
Water running out of a typical water drainage basin due to overflowing from a storm can wreak havoc on your property. Streams, creeks, rivers or lakes which overflow, flash floods, a storm surge or a tsunami are all examples of flood damage that are possible.

Flooding can cause damage to your property including your foundation and drywall damage. Most of the time the drywall will need to be removed and replaced. The flooding can also cause mold to grow on the property due to standing or hidden water, such as inside the walls. This should be taken care of as soon as possible, usually by a professional storm damage remediation company, as mold can cause a serious health risk to you and your family.

Call an Expert
At the first sign of damage contact a professional storm damage restoration company. We use specialized equipment and technology to tackle any storm damage to your property. We will be able to restore your property back to normal.

Contact SERVPRO of Hattiesburg to restore your commercial or residential storm damage "Like it never even happened." 601-544-0512 or 228-467-4450

Are You "Hurricane Ready"?

4/20/2020 (Permalink)

As 2020 Hurricane Season approaches, it is important to be prepared beforehand. Living on the Mississippi Gulf Coast can be scary during hurricane season, as we experience several storms during these months. Hurricanes are massive storm systems that form over ocean water and often move toward land. Hurricanes include high winds, heavy rainfall, storm surge, coastal and inland flooding, rip currents and tornadoes all of which can destroy homes, buildings, and roads. It is important to stay ready so you do not find yourself scrambling to brace for the impact. There is always the potential looming that our area could be hit by a hurricane. Here are a few things to know ahead of a hurricane if one was to head our direction. 

Know the Difference

•Flood/Flash Flood Watch—Flooding or flash flooding is possible in your area.

•Flood/Flash Flood Warning—Flooding or flash flooding is already occurring or will occur soon in your area. 

How to Prepare

•Listen to area radio and television stations and a NOAA Weather Radio for possible flood warnings and reports of flooding in progress or other critical information from the National Weather Service (NWS).

•Be prepared to evacuate at a moment’s notice.

•When a flood or flash flood warning is issued for your area, head for higher ground and stay there.

•Because standard homeowners insurance doesn’t cover flooding, it’s important to have protection from the floods associated with hurricanes, tropical storms, heavy rains and other conditions that impact the U.S. For more information on flood insurance, please visit the National Flood Insurance Program Web site at www.FloodSmart.gov.

Storm Damage Types

3/25/2020 (Permalink)

There are several types of storm damage including wind, flooding, or even fire. Flooding can cause extensive amounts of damage to your home, and lightning can create fires while high winds can cause many issues to the structure of your home.

Wind

The damage which results from extremely high winds is quite easy to see most of the time. Nowadays, roof shingles are designed better than their predecessors regarding their resistance to wind and the ever-increasing knowledge and standards. There is many times little can be done to prevent damage by wind in conditions that are very extreme. Roofs that are wind-damaged usually appear to be affected only in certain spots. The edges or perimeter of the room are affected by high winds easily, since the edge of a roof is quite prone to lifting.

Hail

Round dings in metal are clear signs of hail damage. Determining whether your roof has suffered damage from a hail storm, however, could be a bit more challenging. After hail hits the roof, it knocks off the protective granules where the hail has hit, and these areas of damage are the sources of leaks in the roof in the future if it is not fixed within a few years’ time.

Snow

Snow causes most of its damage from the weight of it, which immensely increases when ice, rain and sleet are added to it. On an average-sized roof, two feet of snow can weigh the equivalent of thirty-eight thousand pounds or nineteen tons. The obvious sign many times that a roof is about to fail is if it is sagging.

Ice

The functionality of a lot of gutter and roof systems are affected by the temperatures that fluctuate, making the snow melt then refreeze on the edge of the roof. This makes a dam which the water cannot pass through, meaning that as more snow melts off the roof and trickles down, it gets blocked by an ice dam and makes a puddle. Since roofs were not made to handle standing water, especially as the water line and growing puddle move up the roof, the water can seep through small openings in the roof into your home or attic.

Rain and Flood Damage

Water running out of a typical water drainage basin due to overflowing from a storm can wreak havoc on your property. Streams, creeks, rivers or lakes which overflow, flash floods, a storm surge or a tsunami are all examples of flood damage that are possible.

Flooding can cause damage to your property including your foundation and drywall damage. Most of the time the drywall will need to be removed and replaced. The flooding can also cause mold to grow on the property due to standing or hidden water, such as inside the walls. This should be taken care of as soon as possible, usually by a professional storm damage remediation company, as mold can cause a serious health risk to you and your family.

Call an Expert

At the first sign of damage contact a professional storm damage restoration company. We use specialized equipment and technology to tackle any storm damage to your property. We will be able to restore your property back to normal.

Contact SERVPRO of Hattiesburg to restore your commercial or residential storm damage "Like it never even happened.”

Dehumidifying Your Home

3/25/2020 (Permalink)

When you live on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, humidity is inevitable. The warm weather we enjoy so much is saturated by a significant amount of water, which generates the excessive moisture around you. While many fear what the humidity means for their hair or their skin, have you thought about what it means for your home?

In humid climates, homes run serious risk of damage from collecting all of the moisture the air carries. A common result of high humidity levels in your home is mold. Mold grows quickly in warm, damp conditions and can fester into an entire colony within 24 hours of their spores attaching themselves to surfaces and feeding. This can cause health effects.

That’s why it’s critically important to take steps in preventing mold growth in the first place. We recommend starting with a dehumidifier for your home. Using a dehumidifier will help you maintain optimal humidity levels that are both healthy and comfortable. Running fans, and checking up on your HVAC system will also help keep the humidity down. Make sure everything is running smoothly and functioning properly to help circulate air flow, and if you need help with an inspection you can always call SERVPRO of Hattiesburg We’ll also help check your vents, filters, and make sure everything is in good working condition.

If you do discover mold growing in your home, it should be dealt with immediately - it can be harmful to your home and your health. Call SERVPRO of Hattiesburg at 601-544-0512 and our quick response team will be there to begin the mold remediation process right away.

Smoke and Soot Cleanup

3/25/2020 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities in your home, causing damage you can not see. Our smoke and fire damage expertise allows us to inspect and accurately assess the scope 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

Believe it or not, there are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before the restoration process begins, SERVPRO of Hattiesburg 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. 

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

•Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more 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 at your home or commercial business.  Our professional team has the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?

Call Us Today – 601-544-0512 or 228-467-4450

We are Cleaning Experts

3/18/2020 (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 – SERVPRO of Hattiesburg, 601-544-0512

Sources:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/guidance-prevent-spread.html?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fguidance-prevent-spread.html

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/specific-groups/guidance-business-response.html

Coronavirus – What You Can Do

3/16/2020 (Permalink)

Across the nation and the world as a whole, coronavirus is the top headline as everyone tries to comprehend the situation.

Experts are saying the virus seems to be hardest on the elderly and health-compromised populations, while children and young people are not affected as seriously. However, it is important we all do our part to help stop the spread of this illness.

Because the situation is changing rapidly, it is important to continue referring to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for the most up-to-date information. 

 In the meantime, it is important to follow these best practices:

• Frequently wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. When soap and running water are unavailable, use an alcohol-based sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
• Stay home when you have a fever or present a risk of spreading illness to others.
• Maintain a proper social distance between people (3 feet).
• Shaking hands and other forms of social greeting that creates contact with other people is discouraged during this period.
   

SERVPRO of Hattiesburg Storm Response

1/20/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Hattiesburg

Our team has traveled to multiple storms along the Gulf Coast. In August 2017, Hurricane Harvey caused catastrophic damage to the Gulf Coast and parts of inland Texas.  Our team mobilized 8 crews and 2 project managers to help the local franchises during the months of August and September. We were very grateful for the opportunity to help the fantastic Houston area franchises, Team Stone, and their residential and commercial customers. 

Commercial Water Damage

1/17/2020 (Permalink)

This photo was taken at a recent commercial water damage.

No one wants to discover water or fire damage on a Monday morning. Unfortunately, a commercial facility is more likely to have a larger, more significant damage than a residential home. This is not only because of the facility's size, but it is also because commercial facilities generally have longer periods without anyone there (i.e. overnight, weekends, holidays). Because of this, it is important to have a plan in place in case a disaster does happen. 

Call SERVPRO of Hattiesburg

Did you know that we do commercial damage restoration? We know the stress and anxiety that water or fire damage can bring to your business. At SERVPRO of Hattiesburg, we are dedicated to limiting your business interruption by being faster to any size disaster. We can be on-site within a few hours to help reduce future damage water can cause. We have the right equipment, procedures and training to help ensure the structure is clean & dry the first time, saving you time and money. 

Commercial Water Damage Restoration Facts

1/17/2020 (Permalink)

In the restoration industry, there is more than meets the eye when it comes to water and the havoc it can wreak.  

Water Restoration Facts

• A sheet of drywall standing upright in 1/2" of water can absorb as much as 6 inches in less than 3 hours.
• Water is known as a "universal solvent" because it dissolves more substances than any other liquid.
• Mold typically begins to grow within 24 to 48 hours in an untreated, moist environment.
• A puddle of water around a water heater indicates a slow leak, or rusted or corroded fittings.  Act quickly as water heaters are under a great deal of water pressure.

Water Contamination Categories in the Restoration Industry

• Category One-Water from a clean source that poses no risk of sickness or discomfort such as from an overflowing bathtub or from a broken water supply pipe.
• Category Two-Water that has a significant degree of chemical, biological and/or physical contamination such as water from a dishwasher or washer, or aquarium leak or discharged Category One water that sits untreated for more than 24 hours becomes a Category Two.
• Category Three- Water coming from a grossly unsanitary source or carrying disease causing agents such as releases from septic systems and flood waters or discharged Category One water that sits for more than 48 hours becomes Category Three, or discharged Category Two water that sits for more than 24 hours becomes Category Three.

The use of chemical agents that act as biocides may be used when there is a need to control or destroy pathogenic microorganisms during a restoration project.  The EPA defines three levels of biocidal activity:

• Sanitizers which are designed to reduce the number of microorganisms
• Disinfectants which are designed to destroy or inhibit the growth, but not necessarily  the spores.
• Sterilizers which are designed to destroy all microorganisms and their spores, such as mold, bacteria, viruses, etc.

Have commercial water damage questions? Call 601-544-0512 or 228-467-4450

Mold Remediation Process

1/15/2020 (Permalink)

Mold remediation process

Often times, we receive calls requesting information about how our team goes about the mold remediation process. Unfortunately, the answer is not the same for everyone. The mold remediation process depends on the amount of mold growth and types of surfaces on which the mold appears. As you can imagine, this can vary greatly from one home or business to the next.

What is the Process?

In almost every scenario, your property will have to be carefully inspected for signs of mold using technology designed to detect mold and hidden water sources. Mold feeds on cellulose and water - most often, these are hidden from plain view.

Before any remediation process occurs, various containment procedures will be placed to prevent the spread of mold and isolate the contaminated area. Such containment procedures include physical barriers (i.e. plastic) and use of negative air pressure to keep the mold spores from spreading during the cleanup process. Specialized filtration equipment captures microscopic mold spores out of the air. We utilize powerful air scrubbers and HEPA vacuums to prevent the spread of these mold spores while the mold remediation is in progress. 

In some cases, we may recommend cleaning the material with an antifungal and antimicrobial treatment. Antifungal and antimicrobial treatments will be used to eliminate mold colonies and help prevent new colonies from forming. Unfortunately, not all scenarios allow for simply treating and wiping down. Removing and disposing of mold-infested drywall and flooring may be necessary to remediate heavy mold growth. Following this, the areas must be properly treated. Simply removing and replacing the affected materials does not fix the mold problem.

In many instances, in order to properly treat your your home or business, we will clean your furniture, decorative items, curtains, and other restorable items affected by mold. A variety of cleaning techniques will be used to clean and sanitize your belongings. We may also utilize specialty equipment to deodorize lingering odors associated with mold or mildew.

Mold?

Mold can be a serious problem on the Gulf Coast due to high temperatures and high humidity. If you think you have mold, contact the professionals at SERVPRO of Hattiesburg: 601-544-0512

Flooding Can Happen Anywhere

1/15/2020 (Permalink)

Flooding can happen fast and in many environments. Hurricanes are not the only weather event that bring widespread flooding, but they are certainly the costliest. Additionally, according to this article, "2017 was the costliest year ever for weather and climate disasters in the United States, the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration announced Monday, totaling $306 billion. The previous record year, 2005, saw $215 billion in disasters." Source

With modern technology, we can receive early warnings that a hurricane is tracking towards our area; however, we cannot determine the flooding that may come as result. As we near 2020 hurricane season, it is prudent to be prepared for potential flooding. The American Red Cross recommends having the following list of items packed and ready to go in the event of an evacuation due to flooding:

• Water - 3+ day supply; one gallon per person per day
• Food - 3+ day supply of non-perishable, easy to prepare food
• Flashlight
• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio (NOAA Weather Radio if possible)
• Extra Batteries
• First Aid Kit
• Medications (7 day supply) and medical items (hearing aids with extra batteries, glasses, contact lenses, syringes, cane)
• Multi-purpose tool
• Sanitation/personal hygiene items
• Copies of personal documents (medication list and pertinent medical information, deed/lease to home, birth certificates, insurance policies)
• Cell phone with chargers
• Family and emergency contact information
• Extra cash
• Emergency blanket
• Map(s) of the aea
• Baby supplies (bottles, formula, baby food, diapers)
• Pet supplies (collar, leash, ID, food, carrier, bowl)
• Tools/supplies for securing your home
• Extra set of car keys and house keys
• Extra clothing, hat and sturdy shoes
• Rain gear
• Insect repellent and sunscreeen
• Camera for photos of damage

Remember: when catastrophic water damage happens to you, SERVPRO of Hattiesburg is here to help. We can help you prepare ahead of time with an Emergency Ready Profile or respond to any size damage to begin cleanup and restoration. In the event of a storm, call the cleanup team that is FASTER TO ANY SIZE DISASTER. When the storms roll out, we roll in. 

You Can Trust SERVPRO!

1/13/2020 (Permalink)

Serving America Since 1967

SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals have been helping home and business owners recover from fire damages across the United States.

Over 1,600 Franchises Nationwide

More locations means faster response. A SERVPRO® Franchise Professional can usually be on-site within four hours to help protect the structure, business and personal property.

SERVPRO® National Call Center Served 313 Insurance and Property Management Companies and Their Clients Nationwide in the Last Year Alone.

We have earned the trust of the insurance industry by serving thousands of their policy holders and clients with respect and integrity. The more we restore, the less that needs to be replaced. This helps our clients save millions of dollars each year. That helps lower your insurance rates too!

24-Hour Emergency Service

 In our business, you need us fast! The sooner we arrive, the better the chance we can reduce damage and save money. Franchise Professionals are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year.

Trained, Uniformed Franchise Professionals

A trained, uniformed and equipped SERVPRO® Franchise Professional will walk you through the job process and then work quickly to restore your property to preloss condition whenever possible.

References

From large commercial environments to small residential losses, SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals understand your loss is the job that matters most! We will be happy to provide references so you can feel confident that SERVPRO® is the best system to service your needs.

Emergency Fire Damage Process Overview

1/13/2020 (Permalink)

ONE HOUR: 

Within one hour from notice of loss, a SERVPRO® Franchise Professional will contact you to arrange for service. You’ll know help is on the way!

FOUR HOURS:

Within four hours of loss notification, a SERVPRO® Franchise Professional will be on-site to start mitigation services. The key to reducing damage and saving money is responding quickly to your damage.

DETAILED EXPLANATION:

A trained, uniformed and equipped SERVPRO® Franchise Professional will walk you through the job process step-by-step, explaining what to expect and the anticipated outcome. EIGHT HOURS: Within eight business hours of on-site arrival, a verbal briefing of the scope will be communicated to the appropriate person, normally your adjuster or property manager.

PRETESTING:

A SERVPRO® Franchise Professional will begin pretesting for restorability, working from the source of the damage outward.

EIGHT HOURS:

Within eight business hours of on-site arrival, a verbal briefing of the scope will be communicated to the appropriate person, normally the adjuster or property manager.

CLEANING, RESTORATION & DEODORIZATION:

SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals will work neatly and efficiently to help you regain control of your property when a damaging event has taken over. They will use state-of-the-art restoration techniques to ensure your property is taken care of right the first time.

FINAL WALK-THROUGH:

After the work has been completed, a final walk-through will be conducted with you to help ensure your satisfaction.

Hattiesburg Residents: Follow These Mold Safety Tips If You Suspect Mold

1/12/2020 (Permalink)

Be careful! Without proper training, you could be spreading mold throughout your home.

If you see visible mold, do not disturb it. You can inadvertently spread the mold infestation throughout your home. When mold is disturbed, the mold can release microscopic mold spores which become airborne and can circulate inside your home.

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact SERVPRO of Hattiesburg for mold remediation services.

What Not to Do:

• Don’t touch or disturb the mold.
• Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.
• Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself.
• Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.

About Our Mold Remediation Services

SERVPRO of Hattiesburg specializes in mold cleanup and restoration, in fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business.  Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today –601-544-0512

When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors

1/12/2020 (Permalink)

It’s almost that time of the year. Summer comes with rain. Rain comes with thunder storms and lightning. Lightning is a leading cause of injury and death from weather-related hazards. Although most lightning victims survive, people struck by lightning often report a variety of long-term, debilitating symptoms. Thunderstorms are dangerous storms that include lightning and can:

• Include powerful winds over 50 MPH;
• Create hail; and
• Cause flash flooding and tornadoes.

IF YOU ARE UNDER A THUNDERSTORM WARNING, FIND SAFE SHELTER RIGHT AWAY

• When thunder roars, go indoors!
• Move from outdoors into a building or car.
• Pay attention to alerts and warnings.
• Unplug appliances.
• Do not use landline phones.

HOW TO STAY SAFE WHEN A THUNDERSTORM THREATENS

WHAT TO DO NOW: Prepare

• Know your area’s risk for thunderstorms. In most places, they can occur year-round and at any hour.
• Sign up for your community’s warning system. The Emergency Alert System (EAS) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio also provide emergency alerts.
• Identify nearby, sturdy buildings close to where you live, work, study, and play.
• Cut down or trim trees that may be in danger of falling on your home.
• Consider buying surge protectors, lightning rods, or a lightning protection system to protect your home, appliances, and electronic devices.

We Have the Resources to Handle Storms and Disasters

Have Storm or Flood Damage?
Call SERVPRO of Hattiesburg today at 601-544-0512

SERVPRO of Hattiesburg Provides Solutions to your Water Damage Needs

1/11/2020 (Permalink)

Water Damage Cleanup & Restoration

The Process:

• Our uniformed team of professionals will arrive on-site usually within four hours of notification to begin providing a resolution to the water damage situation.
• Technicians communicate their assessment with the property manager or owner in detail before beginning the cleanup and restoration process
• Our Hattiesburg team utilizes industry guidelines, knowledge, training and industrial equipment to examine the extent of the damage.
• Restoration services include moisture detection, water extraction, humidification and contents inventory.
• Closing the event work order in a timely manner through electronic claims reporting,consistent communication and professional restoration techniques.
• SERVPRO of Hattiesburg available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

If you need water damage cleanup and restoration, call SERVPRO of Hattiesburg 601-544-0512!

Commercial Mitigation

1/11/2020 (Permalink)

Sprinkler systems can be a common source of water damage in commercial facilities. While their benefits far outweigh their cons, both properly and improperly working sprinkler systems can contribute to a flooded facility. In this case, a fire in an adjacent building caused the sprinkler system in this building to go off over the weekend. The sprinkler shut-off was eventually found but not until the damage had affected 36,000 sq ft of the facility. If this was your facility, what would you do?

Choose a Trained Professional

When your facility is affected, it is important to call a commercial drying specialist such as SERVPRO of Hattiesburg.  At SERVPRO of Hattiesburg, we understand that every hour closed leads to an hour lost of productivity and potential revenue. Commercial damage restoration produces unique challenges so it is very important to choose a trained professional with a proven track record. 

At SERVPRO of Hattiesburg, we will respond immediately to your damage regardless of size or scope. When your facility is affected, no job is too big or too small. 

If your find yourself in this situation, call SERVPRO of Hattiesburg.

Restoring Commercial Property

1/10/2020 (Permalink)

Flooding and water damage events at Hattiesburg commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

About SERVPRO of Hattiesburg

SERVPRO of Hattiesburg specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a 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.

Three Mistakes That Can Lead To Mildew

1/10/2020 (Permalink)

You’ve watered them, put them in the sun and maybe even repotted them - so why are your house plants covered in white and grey spots? The answer is plant mildew, a troublesome fungus that, if left to spread, can spell the end of your favorite foliage. Keeping this fungus at bay starts with figuring out how it got on your Mississippi Gulf Coast home’s plants to begin with. Here are three mistakes that can lead to mildew forming on your plants.

What is Mildew?

Mildew is often mentioned alongside mold and with good reason. Both are fungi that feed on organic materials like paper, wood, ceilings and yes, plants. While mold is known for its dark, fuzzy appearance, mildew tends to be:

• White or gray
• Appear chalky or like dust
• Show up as dots on plant leaves
  
  

Like mold, mildew can spread if left unchallenged. It can prevent your house plants from getting the nutrients they need, killing them. Prevention is the key. But just what might you be doing wrong?

Low Lighting

Like its moldy cousin, mildew tends to like dark areas. Stop its formation on your plants by bringing pots into brighter areas of the home. This may have the added benefit of helping your plant get more sunlight.

Too Much Humidity

Also similar to mold, mildew enjoys moist air. Prevent it from taking hold by investing in a dehumidifier for your home. Keep it on near your plants to stop the fungus.

Dryness

Keeping a regular plant watering schedule not only helps plants grow but can keep mildew away. That’s because while plant mildew likes moist air, it loves dry foliage.
Plant mildew is more than just unsightly. If left to grow, it can become deadly for your favorite house plants. Take the above steps to curb mildew growth and talk to a mold specialist if fungus has taken over your house plants in general.

Advanced Technologies and Techniques

1/9/2020 (Permalink)

When unwelcome water finds its way into your business, you know you want it gone. Fast. You want to avoid mold, odors, and all the other problems that come with lingering water in all the wrong spaces. This is when you call SERVPRO of Hattiesburg!

The question is… “How do I know for sure if my commercial building is completely dry?”

The answer is THERMAL IMAGING CAMERAS.  SERVPRO of Hattiesburg utilizes these special cameras to identify moisture by detecting temperature differentials. This provides a visual map of where our trained  technicians need to look to confirm the presence of moisture or water damage with a moisture meter.

Our SERVPRO of Hattiesburg technicians have been trained and are experienced in using Infrared Thermal Imagining. This allows our team to quickly assess walls, ceilings and other building material for active moisture… especially in those “hard to reach” areas that could otherwise be easily overlooked. Using Infrared Thermal Imaging technology ensures you receive most comprehensive and thorough assessment available.  For any commercial loss call SERVPRO of Hattiesburg, 24 hours a day 7 days a week! 

Advanced Technologies and Techniques: Part 2

1/9/2020 (Permalink)

The past few decades has seen a rapid advancement in the technology and techniques used in the restoration industry. These advancements allow SERVPRO of Hattiesburg Professionals to restore a property back to preloss condition quickly, reliably, and more effectively.

The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) sets practical standards for restoration and cleaning. The IICRC S500 Water Damage Guide is a specific set of practical standards that incorporate the field of psychometry, which involves the manipulation of temperature and relative humidity to remove moisture and dry a property quickly and effectively.

Moisture Detection and Measurement Equipment

Scientific drying principles rely upon specialized equipment to detect, measure, and monitor a property’s moisture levels. Recent advances, like infrared cameras, can help us detect water through a wall, ceiling, or floor.

• An infrared camera may be used to identify water location for thorough water removal.
• Sensitive moisture detectors, hygrometers, and other meters measure the extent of moisture saturation

Water Extraction Equipment

Powerful extraction equipment speeds the drying process by removing the bulk of the water from your home or business.

• Submersible and gas-powered pumps for continuous pumping of high-level water. 
• Truck-mounted and portable extraction units perform efficient water removal.

Drying Equipment

Industrial strength air movers and dehumidifiers are needed to remove the remaining moisture from ceiling, walls, and floors of your home or business. Proper drying helps to prevent swelling and warping of floors, walls, and furniture.

• High-speed air movers causes moisture to evaporate at a faster pace
• Industrial grade dehumidifiers pull the water vapor from the air.

Odor Removal and Deodorization

Water and fire damage often causes powerful odors. The machines we use remove airborne contaminants and control the air quality during the restoration and cleanup process.

• Air scrubbers
• Thermal foggers and deodorization agents

Sanitizing Agents, Germicides, and Anti-Microbial Treatments

The use of OSHA-approved cleaning agents may be needed to clean and remove odors and/or contaminants on your property.

• Deodorization products control odors from excessive moisture.
• Disinfection products stop the growth of bacteria, fungi, mildew, and other harmful microorganisms.

Property Disaster? "We are always here to help."

1/8/2020 (Permalink)

Faster to any size disaster. This is not just another catchy tag line for SERVPRO. It is a commitment from each SERVPRO of Hattiesburg team member to be there when you need them most. 

Whether you are a small business or home owner facing minor fire or water damage, or property manager dealing with a widespread disaster, the SERVPRO system has the resources to respond quickly and efficiently. The sooner help arrives, the sooner restoration begins and the sooner you can resume life and business as usual. SERVPRO of Hattiesburg is just the tip of the iceberg.

If a fire, water or mold damage strikes, no matter the time, call SERVPRO of Hattiesburg. We will help make your property disaster "Like it never even happened." Call on a restoration system serving insurance companies and their insureds, as well as thousands of commercial property owners all over the United States. You can trust the SERVPRO brand, too! 

The 4 Worst Types of Winter Storm Damage

1/8/2020 (Permalink)

Types Of Damage A Winter Storm Can Cause

Adverse winter weather can cause severe damage to your home on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Low temperatures, snow, and high winds can all lead to problems that require repairs or restoration. Find out more about the four worst types of damage a winter storm can cause.

1. Roof Collapse

A layer of dry snow three inches deep can add up to 10 pounds per square foot of additional weight to a roof. Three inches of wet snow can weigh as much as 60 pounds per square foot. A blizzard can build up far more weight. A roof collapse threatens the safety of all inhabitants and can lead to extensive water damage. A cave-in calls for evacuation and extensive roof repairs or a rebuild.

2. Ice Damming

Ice dams form when snow melts due to an unevenly warm roof and refreezes near the eaves. This may cause water to seep under shingles and lead to roof damage, water damage, and mold in the attic or insulation. Keep your attic cool, well-insulated, and ventilated and the drainage system clear to prevent damming after a winter storm.

3. Pipe Bursts

Frozen pipes can burst and cause major water damage. Allow faucets to trickle and heat your home to a safe temperature – no lower than 55 degrees Fahrenheit – even when you are out of town.

4. Undermined Doors and Windows

Winter weather can wear down doors, windows, and weather stripping. This causes cold drafts to enter and allows heated air to escape. A door may even blow open when you are away and lead to water damage and an increased risk of intrusion. Maintain the condition of exterior doors and windows.

All of these events can cause thousands of dollars in damage. If any part of your home succumbs to adverse weather, rely on winter storm damage restoration specialists in Hattiesburg, MS.

Floods

1/7/2020 (Permalink)

Failing to evacuate flooded areas, entering flood waters, or remaining after a flood has passed can result in injury or death. Flooding is a temporary overflow of water onto land that is normally dry. Floods are the most common natural disaster in the United States. Floods may:

• Result from rain, snow, coastal storms, storm surges, and overflows of dams and other water systems.

• Develop slowly or quickly – Flash floods can come with no warning.

• Cause outages, disrupt transportation, damage buildings, and create landslides.

 IF YOU ARE UNDER A FLOOD WARNING, FIND SAFE SHELTER RIGHT AWAY

• Do not walk, swim, or drive through flood waters. Turn Around, Don’t Drown!

       (Just six inches of moving water can knock you down, and one foot of moving water can sweep your vehicle away.)

• Stay off of bridges over fast-moving water.

• Determine how best to protect yourself based on the type of flooding.

  • Evacuate if told to do so.

  • Move to higher ground or a higher floor.

  • Stay where you are.

HOW TO STAY SAFE WHEN A FLOOD THREATENS

Prepare NOW

• Know types of flood risk in your area. Visit FEMA’s Flood Map Service Center for information.

• Sign up for your community’s warning system. The Emergency Alert System (EAS) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio also provide emergency alerts.

• If flash flooding is a risk in your location, then monitor potential signs, such as heavy rain.

• Learn and practice evacuation routes, shelter plans, and flash flood response.

• Gather supplies in case you have to leave immediately, or if services are cut off. Keep in mind each person’s specific needs, including medication. Don’t forget the needs of pets. Obtain extra batteries and charging devices for phones and other critical equipment.

• Purchase or renew a flood insurance policy. It typically takes up to 30 days for a policy to go into effect and can protect the life you've built. Homeowner’s policies do not cover flooding. Get flood coverage under the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP)

• Keep important documents in a waterproof container. Create password-protected digital copies.

• Protect your property. Move valuables to higher levels. Declutter drains and gutters. Install check valves. Consider a sump pump with a battery.

  https://www.ready.gov/floods

Weather Alerts: What They Mean

1/7/2020 (Permalink)

1. The National Weather Service defines a severe thunderstorm as any storm that produces one or more of the following elements:

• A tornado.
• Damaging winds or speeds of 58 mph (50 knots) or greater.
• Hail 1 inch in diameter or larger.

Know these definitions so you are prepared for any storm:

• Hurricane Watch
  Winds greater than 74 mph may hit the area within 36 hours.
• Hurricane Warning
  Winds greater than 74 mph probably will to hit the area within 24 hours.
• Tropical Storm Watch
  Winds from 39 to 73 mph may hit the area within 36 hours.
• Tropical Storm Warning
  Winds from 39 to 73 mph probably will to hit the area within 24 hours. Usually issued for areas to either side of the Hurricane Warning area.
• Tornado Watch
  Conditions are ripe for tornadoes within the watch area. Tornadoes associated with hurricanes and tropical storms are typically a very significant cause of death and damage.
• Tornado Warning
  A tornado has actually been spotted visually or on radar. Usually issued for a county. If a tornado WARNING is issued where you live, GET TO THE MIDDLE OF THE LOWEST FLOOR OF A STRONG BUILDING IMMEDIATELY!!! 
• Severe Thunderstorm Watch
  Conditions are ripe for severe thunderstorms within the watch area.
• Severe Thunderstorm Warning
  There is a severe thunderstorm in or heading for the warned area. Treat this like a tornado warning!!
• Flash Flood Watch
  Flash floods are likely to occur in the near future. Be alert for rising water and be prepared to have to move to high ground.
• Flash Flood Warning
  Flash floods are occurring or expected to occur in the near future. If this happens, get to high ground immediately, and GET AWAY FROM VEHICLES... it only takes 18 inches of water to sweep a car or truck away!
• High Wind Advisory
  Windy conditions may occur in the advisory area. This usually makes for unsafe conditions while driving, especially in (but not limited to) large vehicles. Also, avoid boating anywhere in the advisory area.
• High Wind Warning
  Very strong winds are expected or already are occurring that present a significant danger while driving, boating and other outdoor activities. Often issued near tropical storms and hurricanes.
• Special Marine Warning
  Warnings of interest to boaters, usually because of rough conditions, squall lines, waterspouts,
• Hurricane or Tropical Storm Statement
  Statements issued periodically by the National Hurricane Center with an overview of the current situation.

IICRC Applied Microbial Growth Remediation Technician

1/6/2020 (Permalink)

Our team members just returned from SERVPRO Industries in Gallatin, TN where they had the opportunity to obtain their IICRC AMRT certification. 

The IICRC is the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification.

What is the purpose of the IICRC?

The Mission of the IICRC is to establish and advance globally recognized standards and certifications for the inspection, cleaning, restoration and installation industries. (source)

The IICRC serves as an independent, certification body, that sets and promotes high standards and ethics, and advances communication and technical proficiency within the inspection, cleaning and restoration industries. The IICRC also ensures that when consumers hire a Certified Firm or technician, they have hired experts who will provide reasonable assurance that work will be completed in accordance with the industry’s “standard of care.” (source)

Applied Microbial Growth Remediation Technician (AMRT)

Applied Microbial Growth Remediation Technician is just one of the many certifications offered by the IICRC. The IICRC is an organizational body that sets the standards for the Cleaning and Restoration community. The AMRT course teaches course takers the content in the ANSI/IICRC's S520 (Standard for Professional Mold Remediation) with both academic and hands-on lessons set up to emulate actual mold remediation projects. 

From their website (source):

"The ANSI/IICRC S520 is a procedural standard and reference guide for the remediation of mold damaged structures and contents. The ANSI/IICRC S520 is based on reliable remediation and restoration principles, research and practical experience and attempts to combine essential academic principles with practical elements of water damage restoration for technicians facing “real-life” mold remediation challenges. The S520 and R520 are written for use by those involved in the mold remediation industry, and is the result of collaboration among microbiologists and other scientists, public health professionals, industrial hygienists, remediation contractors, restoration service companies, cleaning and restoration training schools and trade associations that service the professional restoration industry, allied trade-persons and others with related professional and practical experience."

Trained Professionals at SERVPRO of Hattiesburg

From on the job training to IICRC certifications and training at our Corporate headquarters, SERVPRO of Hattiesburg's trained professionals utilize the latest techniques and technology on every job. If you experience a microbial growth or mold problem, contact SERVPRO of Hattiesburg today!

601-544-0512

office@SERVPROhattiesburg.com

The Truth About Mold

1/6/2020 (Permalink)

Mold spores are everywhere in our environment and can enter homes easily. Most types of mold grow quickly if they have a water source, an organic food source, and temperatures between 60 and 86 Fahrenheit. In South Mississippi, mold grows especially easily in our warm, humid climate. 

An Institute of Medicine study found excessive dampness indoors is a public health problem by encouraging growth of molds, dust mites, and other organisms.

Control Moisture and Reduce Mold

• Correct any water leaks or standing water.
• Remove standing water under cooling coils or air handling units.
• Replace washing machine hoses with steel mesh lines.
• Move large objects away from the walls to provide good air circulation.
• Use exhaust fans in bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms.
• Leave AC unit on when away from home 

Mold: What to Know

10/10/2019 (Permalink)

Ten Things You Should Know about Mold

1. Potential health effects and symptoms associated with mold exposures include allergic reactions, asthma and other respiratory complaints.
2. There is no practical way to eliminate all mold and mold spores in the indoor environment; the way to control indoor mold growth is to control moisture.
3. If mold is a problem in your home or school, you must clean up the mold and eliminate sources of moisture.
4. Fix the source of the water problem or leak to prevent mold growth.
5. Reduce indoor humidity (to 30-60%) to decrease mold growth by:
   • Venting bathrooms, dryers and other moisture-generating sources to the outside
   • Using air conditioners and de-humidifiers
   • Increasing ventilation
   • Using exhaust fans whenever cooking, dishwashing and cleaning
6. Clean and dry any damp or wet building materials and furnishings within 24-48 hours to prevent mold growth.
7. Clean mold off hard surfaces with water and detergent, and dry completely. Absorbent materials such as ceiling tiles, that are moldy, may need to be replaced.
8. Prevent condensation: Reduce the potential for condensation on cold surfaces (i.e., windows, piping, exterior walls, roof, or floors) by adding insulation.
9. In areas where there is a perpetual moisture problem, do not install carpeting (i.e., by drinking fountains, by classroom sinks, or on concrete floors with leaks or frequent condensation).
10. Molds can be found almost anywhere; they can grow on virtually any substance, providing moisture is present. There are molds that can grow on wood, paper, carpet, and foods.

https://www.epa.gov/mold/ten-things-you-should-know-about-mold

Fire Damage

10/9/2019 (Permalink)

Fire damage can be stressful and overwhelming. Whether it is your home or your business, it is never easy to see your belongings covered in smoke or soot. Once you have a fire, it is important to contact your insurance agent and let them know what has happened. If the fire is large enough to warrant a claim, the sooner you file means the sooner your adjuster will be able to assess your damage. Your next call should be to a reputable restoration company such as SERVPRO of Hattiesburg. Following a fire, it is important to make sure your structure is secure to prohibit vandalism to your structure and contents. SERVPRO of Hattiesburg can do this for you by providing emergency board-up services and roof tarping if necessary. Depending on whether or not you have filed a claim, our team will develop a scope with you or with you and your adjuster. We will assess all of the structure and contents to determine what is salvageable and what needs to be removed and/or inventoried to be replaced. Often the restoration and cleaning of the contents can be completed onsite, but, if that is not possible, we will clean, pack, and move your contents to store in our climate controlled facility. We will also provide you with an electronic inventory. If the contents must be moved out for repairs, following the move out, we will begin with the structural work which can include the following: cleaning, demolition, and/or repairs. We will move your clean belongings back into your home or business following completion of the structural work.

Call SERVPRO of Hattiesburg

When choosing a restoration company, it is important to choose an IICRC certified firm such as SERVPRO of Hattiesburg. Our team is professionally trained and specializes in water (WTR) and fire (FRST) damage restoration for both residential and commercial properties. We provide emergency services and are available 24/7. 

Our Step by Step Fire Damage Restoration Process

10/8/2019 (Permalink)

Every fire damage event is different, and requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same. The steps listed below illustrate our process for the “typical” fire damage emergency.

Step 1: Emergency Contact

The restoration process begins when you call us. Our representative will ask questions regarding the fire damage event that will help us respond immediately with the appropriate equipment and resources. 

Step 2: Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment

We carefully inspect and test adjoining rooms of your property to determine the extent of the fire, smoke, and soot damage. This step is crucial to developing a plan of action. 

Step 3: Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service

Fire damage can often compromise windows, walls, and roofs. To maintain security and to protect against further damage, we can board up missing windows and walls and place tarps on damaged roofs. 

Step 4: Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)

The water removal process begins almost immediately and removes the majority of the water. We then use dehumidifiers and air movers to remove the remaining water and complete the drying process. 

Step 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces

We use specialized equipment and techniques to remove smoke and soot from ceilings, walls, and other surfaces. 

Step 6: Cleaning and Sanitizing

We clean, sanitize, and disinfect all of the restorable items and structures that were damaged by the fire. We use a variety of cleaning techniques to restore your belongings to pre-fire condition. We’re also trained to remove odors using industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment.

Step 7: Restoration

Restoration is the final step—getting your home or business to its pre-fire condition. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet; or it may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.

Have Questions About Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? Call Today 601-544-0512

Extension Cord Safety Tips

10/8/2019 (Permalink)

Extension cords are one of the most commonly misused items in a home and at the office.  To ensure safety use these following tips when using extension cords.

• Determine the correct wattage required to power the device and be sure to select the correct size of the extension cord.  If connecting two or more devices, add together the wattage rating for all devices to prevent overload.
• Select the appropriate extension cord for using devices indoor or outdoor.
• Do not use extension cords that are cut or damaged. Touching the exposed strand of wire can give someone electric shock or burn.
• Be sure to unplug extension cords when finished using due to the cord will still conduct electricity until it is unplugged.
• Running a cord under carpet or across a doorway is unsafe.

If you have any questions regarding fire damage please call SERVPRO of Hattiesburg at 601-544-0512

Water Mitigation in Greater Hattiesburg Area

10/3/2019 (Permalink)

This loss was caused by a leak in the attic which caused significant damage throughout the home. We performed mitigation prior to reconstruction.

This loss was caused by a leak in the attic which caused significant damage throughout the home. We performed mitigation prior to reconstruction.

As mitigation specialists, our trained team of experts at SERVPRO of Hattiesburg focus on reducing loss, enabling quick recoveries and lessening costs involved with restoration of property damage events. Proper mitigation is especially important due to our climate in South Mississippi.

Why Mitigate?

• Mitigation reduces losses of life and property.
• Mitigation enables people to recover more quickly from a disaster.
• Mitigation lessens the financial impact of disasters.

When to Mitigate:

• Water
• Fire
• Vandalism
• Crime Scene

Mitigation: How does it Help?

Benefits the Claims Representative by:

• Increasing customer satisfaction through immediate attention!
• Reducing costs per claim.
• Closing claims more rapidly.
• Enhancing your company's reputation as a responsive insurer.
• Improving policyholder retention.

Benefits the Policyholder by Reducing:

• The amount of time a policyholder is inconvenienced.
• The amount of time business is interrupted.
• The potential for mold growth.
• The loss of personal valuables and beloved belongings.
• The cost of insurance.

Benefits the Policyholder by Increasing:

• The insured's satisfaction with the claims experience.
• The insured's trust in your company as a responsive insurer.
• The potential for preserving irreplaceable heirlooms, art, and sentimental treasures.
• The amount of structure and contents that are restored.

Types of Water

• Cat 1: Broken Pipe, Icemaker, Drain overflow; no waste or contaminants
• Cat 2: Washing Machine, Dishwasher, Roof Leak; some soils and contaminants
• Cat 3: Raw sewage, Floods; high degree of waste and contaminants

Water Mitigation Procedure

• Extraction of excess water
• Mold and microbial prevention
• Drying Process: Dehumidification and evaptoration
• Monitoring the drying process
• Rebuild and final cleanup

Common Causes of Fire Damage

10/3/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Residential Fire

Home electrical fires account for 51,000 fires each year, and an estimated $1.3 billion in property damage. Learn these common causes of fire damage to prevent fire damage in your home or business:

Many electrical fires are caused by faulty electrical outlets or outdated appliances. Frayed appliance cords can also lead to electrical fires.  Under no circumstances should you ever remove the ground plug from an appliance cord. These appliance cords are only to be used with outlets that can handle the extra amount of electricity.

Another cause of electrical fires is the misuse of extension cords. Extension cords are only to be used on a temporary basis and not as permanent wiring. Extension cords can overheat and cause fires when not used properly. Never should you run extension cords through walls and ceilings, and never use nails or staples to hold an extension cord in place.

Space heaters are also a major cause of electrical fires. Space heaters should always be kept on a flat, level surface to prevent being turned over. These portable heaters are often placed too close to curtains, beds, and other combustible surfaces. Remember to always keep space heaters at least three feet from items that can burn. 

Fire Damage: What to Do

10/3/2019 (Permalink)

Do

Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpet.

Keep hands clean. Soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork.

Place dry, colorfast towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and high traffic areas.

If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator completely and prop doors open to help prevent odor.

Wipe soot from chrome on kitchen and bathroom faucets, trim and appliances, then protect these surfaces with a light coating of lubricant.

If heat is off during winter, poor RV antifreeze in sinks, toilet bowls, holding tanks and tubs to avoid freezing pipes and fixtures. 

Wash both sides of leaves on house plants.

Change HVAC filter, but leave system off until a trained professional can check the system.

Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers top stop particles of soot from getting in or out of the HVAC system.

Fire Damage: What Not To Do

10/3/2019 (Permalink)

Don't

• Attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without first contacting your SERVPRO Professional.
• Attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture without first consulting your SERVPRO Professional.
• Attempt to clean any electrical appliances (TV sets, radios, etc.) that may have been close to fire, heat or water without first consulting an authorized repair service technician.
• Turn on your HVAC system for heating or cooling the structure. Smoke can travel through your ductwork and create secondary damage.
• Consume any food or beverages that may have been stored close to fire, heat or water. (They may be contaminated.)
• Turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. Wiring may be wet or damaged and cause electrical shock, and air movement may create secondary damage.
• Send garments to the dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set in smoke odor.

Water Damage from Clean Water: What Not to Do

10/1/2019 (Permalink)

Don't:

• Enter rooms with standing water where electrical shock hazards may exist.
• Enter affected areas if electrical outlets, switches, circuit breakers or electrical equipment have been exposed to or are submerged in water. Always avoid electrical shock hazards.
• Leave books, newspapers, magazines or other colored items on wet carpets or floors as this could potentially cause staining.
• Leave Oriental rugs or any other rugs on the floor on wet wall-to-wall carpets to cause staining.
• Use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water, possibly causing electrical shock to yourself or damage to the vacuum cleaner.
• Use TVs or other appliances while standing on wet carpets or floors, and especially not on wet concrete flooring.
• Turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet or enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water.

Water Damage from Contaminated Water: Do & Don't

10/1/2019 (Permalink)

Heavy rains brought significant flooding to the Mississippi Delta in March 2016. The water remained high for 3 weeks.

What is Contaminated Water?

As defined by the IICRC, Category 3 water is water that which is highly contaminated and could cause death or serious illness if consumed by humans. Examples: sewage, rising flood waters from rivers and streams, ground surface water flowing horizontally into homes. There are two ways in which water can enter a building through wind or storm damage. The first involves falling or windblown rainwater that enters as a result of damage to roof components or wall assempblies. The second involves horizontally traveling ground surface water (Category 3) containing silt and soil contaminants that infiltrate into structures, generally through doors or around foundation walls. 

If you find your home or building affected by contaminated water, we've listed a few of our favorite tips for what to do and what not to do after a water damage.

Do

Avoid all contact with sewage and items contaminated by sewage.

Wash your hands thoroughly after contact with contaminated items.

Contact a restoration professional such as SERVPRO of Baldwin County.

Don't

Spread contaminated water by walking unnecessarily on damaged or wet carpets.

Turn on HVAC system if there is a possibility of spreading contaminated air.

Use household fans to dry the structure and spread contaminants.

Use products for personal hygiene and cleanliness if exposed to the contaminated areas.

Note

If exposed to harmful waste, OSHA recommends a post-exposure medical evaluation. Consult your local health department or physician.

Water Damage Restoration: Speed is Key

10/1/2019 (Permalink)

After the water was extracted in this beach home, we set equipment to help reduce secondary damages due water & moisture trapped in wall cavities.

What is Mitigation?

In its simplest form, mitigation is what we do to stop the damage that would occur if nothing is done following a water or fire damage. If not mitigated, water and contaminants that are the by-products of fire damage cause significantly more damage over time to the property. 

The primary goals of mitigation are the following:

• stop the damage
• save costs (decide whether items need to be restored or replaced)
• get the home or business owner back to normal, faster.

The insured has a responsibility to mitigate even before the insurance adjuster and restorative drying vendor arrives; but, a property owner can only do so much. The restorative drying vendor should be ready for whatever happens.

Speed is Key

Fast response during the water damage is vital as significant damage to both structure and contents can occur as early as a few hours.

Speed is the key to effective mitigation, and effective mitigation saves time, headaches, and money.  

The primary reason to respond quickly is to avoid secondary damage. After the water is extracted and the area is sanitized, the drying equipment is set. The key to successful drying is creating a balanced drying system. Wood floors pose special problems for extraction as water becomes trapped under and between the planks. Water atop the wood floor is removed with a light squeegee wand but that below may need to be extracted by specialty drying equipment such as the mat system we see in this picture. Air movers direct airflow to the areas that are in need.

Choose a Quality Restoration Vendor

An effective mitigation company needs to be ready for whatever happens, and have the equipment needed to mitigate the loss as quickly as possible, regardless of the size and/or extent of the loss conditions.

At SERVPRO of Hattiesburg, we understand the need to be faster to any size disaster. Call us and we will make your water or fire damage "Like it never even happened." 

when Thunder Roars, Go Indoors

9/26/2019 (Permalink)

It’s that time of the year. Summer comes with rain. Rain comes with thunder storms and lightning. Lightning is a leading cause of injury and death from weather-related hazards. Although most lightning victims survive, people struck by lightning often report a variety of long-term, debilitating symptoms. Thunderstorms are dangerous storms that include lightning and can:

• Include powerful winds over 50 MPH;
• Create hail; and
• Cause flash flooding and tornadoes.

IF YOU ARE UNDER A THUNDERSTORM WARNING, FIND SAFE SHELTER RIGHT AWAY

• When thunder roars, go indoors!
• Move from outdoors into a building or car.
• Pay attention to alerts and warnings.
• Unplug appliances.
• Do not use landline phones.

HOW TO STAY SAFE WHEN A THUNDERSTORM THREATENS

WHAT TO DO NOW: Prepare

• Know your area’s risk for thunderstorms. In most places, they can occur year-round and at any hour.
• Sign up for your community’s warning system. The Emergency Alert System (EAS) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio also provide emergency alerts.
• Identify nearby, sturdy buildings close to where you live, work, study, and play.
• Cut down or trim trees that may be in danger of falling on your home.
• Consider buying surge protectors, lightning rods, or a lightning protection system to protect your home, appliances, and electronic devices.

We Have the Resources to Handle Storms and Disasters

Have Storm or Flood Damage?
Call SERVPRO of Hattiesburg today at 601-544-0512

Benefits of a National Brand

9/26/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is the only mitigation company with national advertising. You know us and trust us. Effective results are the results of consistent training and execution.

Since 1967, SERVPRO Industries, Inc. has been redefining and improving the mitigation and restoration industries. In 1992, the SERVPRO National Training Center was developed specifically to teach restoration and mitigations skills to insurance industry employees, as well as Franchise owners. SERVPRO has been a state –approved Continuing Education Course Location and an IICRC-approved school since 1997. In May of 2005, SERVPRO moved to a new corporate location with an innovative and much larger Training Center.

SERVPRO Industries, Inc. is one of nine organizations qualified to offer the Applied Structural Drying course. The Applied Structural Drying course covers the effective, efficient, and timely drying of water-damaged structures and contents, using comprehensive classroom and hands-on training, in order to facilitate appropriate decision-making within a restorative drying environment. Students will experience live, hands-on use of instruments, extraction systems, drying equipment, and chemistry use in an actual flooded building situation.

Water Damage from Clean Water: What to Do

9/25/2019 (Permalink)

Do:

• Shut off the source of water if possible or contact a qualified party to stop the water source.
• Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building, when access to the power distribution panel is safe from electrical shock.
• Remove as much exess water as possible by mopping and blotting.
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removing lamps and tabletop items.
• Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
• Remove to a safe, dry place any paintings, art objects, computers, documents and other materials that are valuable or sensitive to moisture.
• Use wooden clothespins to keep furniture skirting off damp floors.
• Hang draperies with coated hangers to avoid contact with wet carpeting or floors.
• Hang furs and leather goods to dry separately at room temperature.

Spotting Water Damage in your House

9/25/2019 (Permalink)

Thermal imaging can detect cooler temperatures in materials. Cooler temperatures are usually a sign of water damage.

In general, a house is one of the biggest investments you will make in your lifetime. In order to protect that investment, you should vigilantly look out for household problems and address them before they worsen.

One such dreaded homeowner issue is water damage. If left unattended, residential water damage can detrimentally impact the structure or spawn other complications, including mold that poses a health risk to inhabitants. Here are several methods for detecting water damage within your house.

1. Check the Floors
No matter what kind of flooring you have, it will manifest signs of water damage. For tile and wood, look for cracked, buckling or warped flooring. When it comes to carpet, be wary of damp spots, gradual rises, soft spots or the smell of mold and dampness.

2. Look for Stains
Water stains on the floor around the bathtub, toilet or sink, as well as stains on ceilings and walls, are some of the most obvious signs of water damage. Unusual stains could indicate there is a leaky pipe or drain inside the wall. Cracks in the drywall or areas that appear swollen and are soft to touch also may signify trouble. Peeling paint is another sign of loose water within wall spaces. As the drywall gets saturated, paint can lose adhesion.

3. Inspect Outside
Observe the exterior of your house. What you want to look for are pools of standing water that can indicate poor drainage in the yard, gutter spouts that aren’t transporting water far enough from the house or leaky rain gutters. Any of those issues could threaten the foundation of your house. Additionally, common signs of water damage on the roof may include pools of water; cracked, curled or missing shingles; or broken flashing.

4. Watch for Rust and Mold
Inspect your water heater and check for rust on the tank or damp spots on the floor. A rusted tank could indicate a slow leak. Additionally, corrosion around pipe connections could be caused by water seepage. Visual signs of active mold growth mean moisture is contacting microscopic mold spores, often in the nooks and crannies of your home. Finally, don’t rely solely on sight. When water stagnates, mold and bacteria can grow, producing a musty, unpleasant smell.