Recent Storm Damage Posts
Flooded Home? Top Tips for Recovery | SERVPRO of Hattiesburg
9/15/2024 (Permalink)
It is important to address even minor flood damage immediately; contact SERVPRO of Hattiesburg any time for fast and reliable assistance.
Floods can happen anywhere and at any time, and they are among the most devastating natural disasters that can affect homeowners. When floodwater infiltrates your home, it can cause severe damage to your property and put your family at risk.
It is essential to understand the risks associated with flooding and what to do if it happens to you. Our team explains more about flood risks and what to do if the water comes rushing into your home below.
Understanding Flood Risks
Floods can happen due to a variety of reasons, including heavy rain, overflowing rivers or streams and even manmade issues like burst water lines or broken levees. If you live in a flood zone or near a larger body of water, you should be prepared to take the necessary precautions to protect your home and family.
Even if you don’t live in a high-risk area, flooding can still happen unexpectedly and can lead to serious damage in a short amount of time. Watch the forecast carefully and always avoid traveling when there is heavy rain or a strong storm in the forecast.
What to Do if Floodwater Leaks Into Your Home
If floodwater enters your home, the first thing you should do is prioritize your safety and that of your loved ones. Turn off the power and gas supply to your home immediately to avoid electrical hazards or gas leaks. Avoid contact with floodwater as it may contain harmful bacteria, chemicals or other contaminants.
Next, contact SERVPRO®. We have the expertise and equipment to remove the water, dry and dehumidify your home, and repair any damage caused by the flood. We will also work with your insurance company to ensure that your claim is processed quickly and efficiently.
How SERVPRO of Hattiesburg Can Help
At SERVPRO of Hattiesburg, we understand the urgency of flood damage restoration and the importance of responding quickly to minimize the damage. Our team of experts is available 24/7 to respond to your emergency call.
We will arrive promptly and assess the extent of the damage to your property.
Our flood damage restoration process involves the following steps:
1. Inspection and Assessment: We will inspect your property and assess the extent of the damage caused by floodwater.
- Water Removal: We will use powerful pumps and vacuums to remove the water from your home.
- Drying and Dehumidifying: We will use specialized equipment to dry and dehumidify your home to prevent mold growth and further damage.
4. Cleaning and Sanitizing: We will clean and sanitize your home and belongings to remove any harmful bacteria or contaminants.
5. Restoration: We will repair any damage caused by floodwater and restore your home to its pre-flood condition
Flooding can be a traumatic experience for homeowners, but with the help of a professional flood damage restoration company like SERVPRO of Hattiesburg, you can get back on your feet quickly. Contact us today if you need assistance with flood damage restoration or have any questions about our services.
Even small floods need to be addressed immediately. Call SERVPRO of Hattiesburg and we will take care of you.
3 Ways to Avoid Water Damage When It Rains | SERVPRO of Hattiesburg
11/21/2023 (Permalink)
When unexpected water damage creeps into your home, SERVPRO of Hattiesburg is here for the rescue. Call us today!
A good soaking rain can be really beneficial for our area from time to time. A little rain can give gardens a boost, give your lawn a drink and can even function as a free car wash!
While you might appreciate when it rains, though, you certainly don’t want that rain to be leaking into your home.
Preparing ahead of any severe weather or heavy rainstorms can help you avoid damage or minimize a potential water damage situation. Doing these three things before it starts to rain can keep your home safe and dry:
Address Your Gutters
The wind and previous storms can easily toss about yard debris and leaves around your property. While the majority of debris will end up on your lawn, there is always the chance that it lands in your gutters and forms a backup.
A clog in your gutter system or in your downspouts can force water to back up onto your roof, or it can pour over the sides of your home and collect by your foundation, which can lead to a seriously flooded basement.
One simple way to avoid this is to clean out your gutters regularly! This is ideally done after every large storm, but it should at least be done once a season to ensure your gutters are free and clear to work how they should. Just be sure to do this task with a buddy or a family member nearby if you have to get up on the ladder.
Tackle Roof Damage
Our roofs protect us from many different kinds of threats and the force of Mother Nature, so it should be no surprise that they are one of the most common areas to experience damage when the weather turns south. Even just a minor gap along your roof line or a missing shingle on the back of your house can invite water into your attic that can leak down your walls.
Get on your roof and check it thoroughly after each storm passes to look for signs of damage. Fixing any minor issues on your own or calling a professional company out to do it for you can ensure your roof is once again sealed up tight and ready to keep you dry.
Check Your Equipment
If you have a sump pump in your home, you will want to check it every so often to ensure it is in good working condition. The time when you find out that it is malfunctioning should not be when your basement is being flooded with water and your sump pump is not working the way it should. Have it serviced regularly, and address issues with it right away.
We know that Mother Nature is unpredictable and can cause all kinds of watery chaos in your home, which is why we are here 24/7 to respond to your call for help. We will expertly dry out your home and address any necessary repairs to help you recover faster and more efficiently.
Our team is here to ensure your home is dried out and repaired quickly. Contact SERVPRO of Hattiesburg right away.
Prepare Your Staff For Weather Emergencies | SERVPRO of Hattiesburg
6/16/2023 (Permalink)
Storm damage can bring your business to a halt. Call SERVPRO of Hattiesburg to get your business back in action.
It’s your job as a business owner to ensure that your staff are ready to respond to a variety of scenarios. If they are properly trained, they can react appropriately and quickly to keep themselves and your customers safe in an emergency.
Extreme weather is a type of situation that can appear quickly and cause destruction in a short amount of time, so having your staff ready is vital! Use our tips below to ensure that your staff is prepared to weather any storm safely and efficiently.
Understanding the RiskUnderstanding the weather threats for our area is a great first step toward being prepared. We see a wide variety of severe weather in south central Mississippi. Winds over 70 miles per hour, hail and tornadoes are all common occurrences when the spring and summer storms roll through. Because of that, having a safe shelter location for your business is crucial.
You should also take the time to understand your flood risk for your specific business. Flood zones are different across the region and can affect one business while leaving another one completely dry. Stay current on weather forecasts and make plans early!
Your Communication StrategyCommunicating with one another has never been easier! Be sure you have the contact information for everyone on your staff, and stay connected as weather alerts or forecasts come together.
When a potential weather situation arises, a quick text or mass email can help spread information about safe shelter locations, emergency exits or where your emergency supplies are located.
Planning Your Evacuation RoutesYou never know what a specific weather situation will entail. If you decide that a safe and efficient evacuation is needed, everyone on your team should be able to exit smoothly. Take the time to show your employees all of the evacuation routes and emergency exits, and label them clearly so they are easy to see in a hurry.
On the other spectrum, staying put might be your best bet to ensure your staff’s safety. In this case, communicating where your safe shelter location is ahead of time and prepping this space with food, water and emergency supplies is a great preemptive measure.
In order to keep everyone calm during this process, they need to be confident! Practice your evacuation routes or sheltering in place a few times each year and your team will be ready for anything.
Don’t let extreme weather take control! If storms strike your business, SERVPRO can help you restore your losses.
Prepare for Rain Damage
5/26/2022 (Permalink)
It has been a rainy week here in Hattiesburg, MS! Our team has been busy responding to calls due to roof leaks, groundwater intrusions, and an unfortunate part of excessive rain, sewage backups.
Water Damage is Serious.
It's important to identify any potential openings for water intrusion before it happens. Although, identifying potential causes can be difficult until a damage actually occurs, there are some ways that you can be proactive that can have a serious impact on preventing damages.
- Roof Inspection: having your roof inspected (especially if it is an older roof and has weathered many storms!) is an important item in your toolkit for preventing water damage. Our area is not a stranger to bad weather including tornadoes, tropical storms, or hurricanes. Even if you may not experience water damage, regular roof maintenance can be especially helpful in reducing risk for future damage.
- Identify potential causes for other water intrusion. Water can enter the home in a variety of ways whether that be due sealant failure around doors and windows, sump-pump failure, or drainage issues related to landscaping. If you notice any of these issues following decent raining, it is important to get these issues repaired before another storm. And, especially so as we enter hurricane season!
We're Here to Help.
SERVPRO of Hattiesburg can help you identify and repair these issues if you experience damage. We have the knowledge and resources to complete all of the necessary interior and exterior repairs - as well as drying if necessary - to make your water damage "Like it never even happened." If you suffer water damage, call the experts at SERVPRO of Hattiesburg. We're available 24/7/365: 601-544-0512.
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.
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
- 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.
- 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.
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.
- 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. - 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. - 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. - 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. - 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. - 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. - Unplug appliances
Move appliances and household fixtures away from exterior doors and window openings. Store them in cabinets or interior closets. - 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. - 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. - 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.
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.
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:
- 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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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:
- Do not panic, take a breath and understand that although today feels like the worst day ever. Things WILL get better.
- Keep safety always at the forefront of your mind (stop the water source, shut all electricity off, etc.)
- 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
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."
National Preparedness Month: Week 3
9/14/2020 (Permalink)
September: National Preparedness Month
Week #3 – September 13th-19th, 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).
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!
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
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.
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
- An Emergency Readiness Plan for your family
- 3 days worth of water
- 3 days of non perishable food for each person or pet
- First Aid Kit
- Battery Powered Radio or radio alert
- Portable Power bank to charge cell phones
- Full Tank of Gas in car
- Batteries
- 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.”
SERVPRO of Hattiesburg Storm Response
1/20/2020 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Hattiesburg is a dedicated member of SERVPRO's National Storm Team. The SERVPRO National Storm Team mobilizes to areas affected by catastrophic flooding, tornadoes, and other disasters. This helps the local franchises service their customers by providing a fast response. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces cost. Furthermore, it is essential in reducing costs due to secondary damage and time out of the home or business. No matter the size of the catastrophe, you can rest assured that SERVPRO is here to help.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.
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.
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
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.
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)
- 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.
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