Archived Storm Damage Blog Posts

Bedroom Doors Sticking?

Name: SERVPRO of North Highlands / Rio Linda
Address: 5704 Dry Creek Rd., Rio Linda, CA, 95673
Telephone: (916) 991-1522

4/17/2023 (Permalink)

Rainy weather may cause there to be more moisture in the air of your property. But if after the rain has stopped you still notice a muggy atmosphere with mildew smell and you have a crawl space, you may have water under your property that is not drying.

Storms can cause flooding and puddling under your property in the crawlspace. Under your property is dark and can be cool, or even humid. This humidity can also be felt inside your home and even cause small nuisance like swelling doors.

So if the atmosphere in your home smells mildewy, feels muggy, and your doors are sticking after a storm it might be due to moisture in your crawlspace.

SERVPRO of North Highlands / Rio Linda are no strangers to crawling under houses to find moisture. We have helped countless in the greater Sacramento area. If you have any questions or concerns call us today 916-991-1522.

Do You Have Damage to Your Property Caused by Storm

3/20/2023 (Permalink)

Spring calls for showers and the beginning of the summer heat. Here in the greater Sacramento area, it can be hot, windy, or rainy in spring. So as far as property damage caused by storm it’s a tossup. You could have fire damage caused by the heat and wind or water damage caused by rain and wind.

Whatever it is, SERVPRO of North Highlands / Rio Linda has you covered. When you own property, you never know when storm related damage is going to occur. Depending on the type and the size of the damage done to your property, you may need your things put into an onsite storage unit while your property is being restored. Our team at SERVPRO of North Highlands / Rio Linda have the resources needed to pack out all your personal belongings in your home. We make it simple, so you don’t have to worry about hiring several different companies.

The next time you have a loss caused by a storm, call the experts at SERVPRO of North Highlands / Rio Linda to restore your property. Give us a call at 916-991-1522.

Has Your Business or Home Been Effected by a Storm/Disaster?

2/20/2023 (Permalink)

What is a storm or national disaster? When you think of a storm you usually think of rain, flooding, winds, hurricanes. But here in the greater Sacramento area when it gets hot we have regular heat warning because for us fires are a pretty regular occurrence.

Did you know that as many as 50% of business close down following a disaster. Therefore, SERVPRO has a disaster ready recovery team. This elite group of large loss specialists are pre-qualified and strategically positioned throughout the U.S. with substantial resources through a network of over 1,7000 franchises.

SERVPRO of North Highlands / Rio Linda has been called to help with the Paradise Camp Fire, Santa Barbara Thomas Fire, Santa Rosa Tubbs Fire, and many other fires in the greater Sacramento area. We have experience cleaning and restoring many homes effected by wildfires, and homes effected by storm caused water damage. If you have any questions and concerns call us today 916-991-1522.

Are Your Gutters Storm Ready?

1/24/2023 (Permalink)

Rain gutters may not seem like a significant property essential. But lack of gutters or damaged gutters can cause a lot of damage to your property especially after a storm that brought in a considerable amount of rain.

When you don’t have gutters or cracks in your gutters it causes water to run down the siding of the outer walls of your property. This water can find its way into the wall of your property through cracks, deteriorated widow seals, and other opening you may not know are in the outer walls of your home.

Another thing to consider is that the runoff from the walls can easily cause flooding in the basement or crawlspace of your property.

SERVPRO of North Highlands / Rio Linda has helped property owners throughout the greater Sacramento area during storms and after the storms to get the water damage taken care of. If you run into any storm or other restoration damage in your property or just have questions give us a call 27/7 at 916-991-1522.

We Restore Damage After a Windstorm

12/12/2022 (Permalink)

Sometimes when it storms there is wind. Wind can be troublesome for you and your property.

Here are some tips to help protect your property before the high winds:

Check your roof and consider installing gable bracing,
Reinforce windows, doors, and garage doors.
Trim your trees and dispose of landscape debris.
Remove or secure smaller loose items, such as patio chairs.
Anchor larger items safely to the ground.

If your property does experience any wind damage SERVPRO of North Highlands / Rio Linda is here for you. We have experience with lots of different types of storm and wind related damage to properties in the greater Sacramento area. If you have and concerns or questions call us today, 916-991-1522.

What You do Could Effect the Drying Process of Your Property

11/14/2022 (Permalink)

In the time directly after a flood or water loss, minutes matter. Preventative measures can help negate further damage to your property.

What Not to do after a flood or water loss:

Do not touch or make contact if the water is sewage or otherwise contaminated
Do not spread contaminated water by walking from affected areas to unaffected areas
Do not use household fans to attempt to dry wet areas, if the water is contaminated this is especially important as uninformed drying techniques can spread contaminates throughout the house
Do not enter rooms with standing water where an electrical hazard may exist
Do not enter affected areas if any electrical outlet is exposed to water, this can include electrical equipment, circuit breakers, and switches
Do not leave newspapers, magazines, and books that are damp on carpets which will cause staining
Do not leave colored rugs on top of other carpeting, as this can cause staining
Do not use your normal vacuum cleaner to remove water, this will break your vacuum and it can cause electrical shock
Do not use electrical appliances while wet
Do not turn on any sort of embedded electrical appliance such as ceiling fixtures if there has been water damage in the ceiling

Preventative measures after a disaster can ensure your safety and faster restoration of your property. SERVPRO can help bring your property to its original condition if you visit our website or call us at (916)-991-1522.

What You do Could Effect the Drying Process of Your Property

11/14/2022 (Permalink)

In the time directly after a flood or water loss, minutes matter. Preventative measures can help negate further damage to your property.

What Not to do after a flood or water loss:

Do not touch or make contact if the water is sewage or otherwise contaminated
Do not spread contaminated water by walking from affected areas to unaffected areas
Do not use household fans to attempt to dry wet areas, if the water is contaminated this is especially important as uninformed drying techniques can spread contaminates throughout the house
Do not enter rooms with standing water where an electrical hazard may exist
Do not enter affected areas if any electrical outlet is exposed to water, this can include electrical equipment, circuit breakers, and switches
Do not leave newspapers, magazines, and books that are damp on carpets which will cause staining
Do not leave colored rugs on top of other carpeting, as this can cause staining
Do not use your normal vacuum cleaner to remove water, this will break your vacuum and it can cause electrical shock
Do not use electrical appliances while wet
Do not turn on any sort of embedded electrical appliance such as ceiling fixtures if there has been water damage in the ceiling

Don’t Let Lightening Strike You

10/10/2022 (Permalink)

If you hear thunder or see lightening, go inside. That is the best advice.

But if you do find yourself in a lightening storm here at SERVPRO of North Highlands / Rio Linda we want you to be safe. Many lightening strikes happen when people are exposed outdoors in a large open area or next to a tall object like metal pole, streetlight or tall tree.

What to do if you are in a lightning storm:

Get into the nearest building
Get into a car and make sure all windows are up
If no shelter is available; get as low to the ground as you can (crouch), put something under you to insulate you from the ground such as foam or insulated jacket.

Here at SERVPRO of North Highlands / Rio Linda we can only give tips to stay safe from storms. But if your home or business has been effected by a storm in any way we are always here to help, with 24/7 emergency support. Remember to be sure to check for leaks and water damage, in your property after a storm. If you find anything we have the experience and knowledge to answer your questions and restore the problem, call us at (916) 991-1522.

How Our Storm Restoration Services Help You

9/12/2022 (Permalink)

Hail after a storm.

When your home sustains storm damage, it's important to schedule storm restoration services as quickly as possible to prevent further damage to your house.

When water enters your home, it's crucial to quickly address water damage before it becomes a bigger problem. If water is left to sit on your flooring, inside your walls, or on your books or other objects, it can cause irreparable damage and cause a hefty repair bill. Calling a 24/7 storm restoration company as soon as possible helps to mitigate these problems and get your home back in working order quickly before mold growth or drywall damage occurs.

Hail Damage Can Cause Broken Windows, Remove Roof Shingles, & Deteriorate Your Property

When hail strikes during a severe thunderstorm, it can cause massive damage to your home depending on how large the hail was and for how long it fell. If hail damage is ignored, you may see your roof structure weaken over time, especially if damaged or removed shingles aren't repaired in a timely manner. Your overall property structure can also deteriorate as the entire structure may be weakened after hail falls on it. Storm restoration services include repairing any hail damage that was incurred.

At SERVPRO North Highlands/ Rio Linda, call us 24/7 at 916-991-1522. We always have someone available to answer your call.

Hot August Nights

8/15/2022 (Permalink)

It’s still warm in Sacramento in August and these temperatures leave us vulnerable to fire season. While a wildfire can cause excessive heat damage to your home such as bubbling paint and soot covered structures, regular heat waves in the valley also cause property damage.

Heat can cause your roof to expand. This heat can cause shingles to blister and asphalt shingles can crack. If the top level of your building is very hot, it could cause the roof top to warp and break down. All of these damages can cause cracks and holes in your roof that you may not even notice until rainy storms find them. Then it is too late and your roof, attic, and even inside you home may have water damage.

Crawlspaces are also susceptible to heat damage. If you have a regularly moist environment in your crawlspace then the heat can cause humidity. This humidity is an ideal environment for mold and mildew to grow. You may have noticed doors in the house that seem harder to close and seem to get stuck on the doorway. This can also be because of the humidity in your crawlspace causing materials inside of your home such as the doorframe wood to swell and expand. Also that mold we mentioned earlier may have spores in the air inside your home that you are breathing in.

SERVPRO of North Highlands / Rio Linda does it all. We have experience cleaning and restoring many homes effected by wildfires, and homes effected by storm caused water damage. We have no problem crawling under your home to make sure there isn’t a concerning issue caused by humidity. If you have any questions and concerns call us today 916-991-1522.

Have You Been Affected by a Wildfire, We Can Help!

7/11/2022 (Permalink)

With shorter rainy seasons, and longer seasons with excessive heat it creates optimal conditions for more Wildfires.

Wildfire Facts:

More land has been affected by wildfires in recent years than at any time since the 1960s. In 2004, wildfires burned more than 8 million acres in 40 States.
The greater Yellowstone National Park fire of 1988 burned more than 1.2 million acres.
Wildfire severity has increased and fire frequency has decreased during the past 200 years.
Many species depend on wildfires to improve habitat, recycle nutrients, and maintain diverse communities.
Land management agencies light “prescribed fires” under controlled conditions for specific management objectives.

If disaster strikes your home or business SERVPRO of North Highlands / Rio Linda is here for you to get your life back on track. "Like it never even happened." SERVPRO of North Highlands / Rio Linda has experience with fire disasters in California. We were there and available fast for the Tubbs Fire, Camp Fire, and other disasters as soon as we got the green light informing us that it is safe for us to enter the area. If you have any Fire or Smoke damage give us a call 24/7 at 915-991-1522.

References: USGS Publications Warehouse

Returning Home After a Wildfire

6/13/2022 (Permalink)

If you have a Wildfire close to your property you may not even realize that it was actually affected. It’s a relief to find out that your property didn’t experience any direct fire damage, but there is other damage that may be caused by the wildfire. You may not realize it because of the smell outside of your property but soot and smoke easily enters your property covering your structure and personal belongings making them ashy and smell. Also depending on the amount of time that the evacuation keeps you from your property and if power has been cut, you may run into the smell of rotting food in your freezers and refrigerators.

SERVPRO of North Highlands / Rio Linda does it all and we are experienced and know how to get you through the stress and frustration caused by Wildfires. Here are some tips if you are returning to a property after a wildfire.

Do not return to your property until authorities say it is safe to do so.
Be careful while walking around because after a fire the ground may have heat pockets that can spark another fire or burn you. Avoid live embers, smoldering debris, hot ash, and charred trees.
Use a respirator to limit your inhalation exposure. This will help minimize breathing dust particles and wet debris.
Document property damage with photographs. Go over your property inventory and contact your insurance company and SERVPRO of North Highlands / Rio Linda for assistance.

SERVPRO of North Highlands / Rio Linda hopes that you and your family are disaster free but if a Wildfire does affect you, we are ready to help. For all of your fire, smoke, and other cleaning and restoration needs call us at (916) 991-1522. We have 24/7 emergency services because we know a fire never works with in your schedule.

References: Ready.gov

Have Your Home Ignition Zone Prepared for Fire Season

5/16/2022 (Permalink)

What is the Home Ignition Zone?

Home ignition zone was developed by the USDA Forest Service. Due to research USDA Forest Service was able to find out how homes ignite due to the heat in different distances from your home. There are 3 different radiuses from your home in the ignition zone. The zones and some information on helping prevent home fires follows.

Immediate zone

The home and the area 0-5’ from the furthest attached exterior point of the home; defined as a non-combustible area. Science tells us this is the most important zone to take immediate action on as it is the most vulnerable to embers. START WITH THE HOUSE ITSELF then move into the landscaping section of the Immediate Zone.

Clean roofs and gutters of dead leaves, debris and pine needles that could catch embers.
Replace or repair any loose or missing shingles or roof tiles to prevent ember penetration.
Reduce embers that could pass through vents in the eaves by installing 1/8 inch metal mesh screening.
Clean debris from exterior attic vents and install 1/8 inch metal mesh screening to reduce embers.
Repair or replace damaged or loose window screens and any broken windows Screen or box-in areas below patios and decks with wire mesh to prevent debris and combustible materials from accumulating.
Move any flammable material away from wall exteriors – mulch, flammable plants, leaves and needles, firewood piles – anything that can burn. Remove anything stored underneath decks or porches.

Intermediate zone

5-30’ from the furthest exterior point of the home. Landscaping/hardscaping- employing careful landscaping or creating breaks that can help influence and decrease fire behavior

Clear vegetation from under large stationary propane tanks.
Create fuel breaks with driveways, walkways/paths, patios, and decks.
Keep lawns and native grasses mowed to a height of four inches.
Remove ladder fuels (vegetation under trees) so a surface fire cannot reach the crowns. Prune trees up to six to ten feet from the ground; for shorter trees do not exceed 1/3 of the overall tree height.
Space trees to have a minimum of eighteen feet between crowns with the distance increasing with the percentage of slope.
Tree placement should be planned to ensure the mature canopy is no closer than ten feet to the edge of the structure.
Tree and shrubs in this zone should be limited to small clusters of a few each to break up the continuity of the vegetation across the landscape.

Extended zone

30-100 feet, out to 200 feet. Landscaping – the goal here is not to eliminate fire but to interrupt fire’s path and keep flames smaller and on the ground.

Dispose of heavy accumulations of ground litter/debris.
Remove dead plant and tree material.
Remove small conifers growing between mature trees.
Remove vegetation adjacent to storage sheds or other outbuildings within this area.
Trees 30 to 60 feet from the home should have at least 12 feet between canopy tops.*
Trees 60 to 100 feet from the home should have at least 6 feet between the canopy tops.

SERVPRO of North Highlands / Rio Linda hopes that you and your family are disaster free but if a property fire does affect you, we are ready to help. For all of your fire, smoke, and other cleaning and restoration needs call us at (916) 991-1522. We have 24/7 emergency services because we know a fire never works with in your schedule.

References: National Fire Protection Association

Are April Showers Causing Your Windows to Leak?

4/1/2022 (Permalink)

Water intrusion and damage can be a headache inside your home or business. Prevent rainwater from causing a mitigation mess ahead of time with these tips:

Clean Rain Gutters - A clogged rain gutter can send water spilling down the exterior wall, which can result in water between the walls causing water damage and mold growth on the backside of the interior walls.
Roof Maintenance – It can seem obvious that water intrusion is a result of a leaky roof. But, for the most part people imagine a visible waterfall of water coming from the ceiling in their house. This is not always the case. The smallest tear in the rubber protector under your shingles can cause water to slowly be leaking onto the structure wood inside your roof, causing mold and wood rot. Structural damage is never good for your house.
Window Repairs – If the caulking around your windows were not sealed correctly or weather has cause deterioration, water can be leaking into your walls.

Keeping an eye out and taking care of these before a rain storm is ideal, but we know it’s not always possible in people’s busy lives. If you do have water intrusion inside your home, SERVPRO of North Highlands / Rio Linda is available with emergency services 24/7. We are more than happy to help you with all your water mitigation questions and concerns at 916-991-1522.

Under Your Property is as Important to keep dry as the Rest of it!

3/20/2022 (Permalink)

Under Your Property is as Important to keep dry as the Rest of it! Sump pump maintenance should be done at least annually to make sure that it will perform properly when the next larger than average storm hits. Testing it with water, cleaning any filtration, and emptying the pit of debris are all good ways to keep it operating properly.

If not taken care of promptly standing water in a basement, and sometimes crawl spaces will cause moisture to enter the air, which will spread throughout the house and cause secondary mold damage elsewhere. As well, if the water is touching any wood the capillary effect will cause water to be wicked upwards, possibly causing water damage above the basement.

Full mitigation of this issue requires treatment plan with an assumption that any other part of your house may also be effected. After calling SERVPRO of North Highlands / Rio Linda, our first step would be to remove the water immediately, and then begin the drying process.

If your property in the greater Sacramento area has been damaged by any type of flooding call us at (916) 991-1522 to prevent further damage, or secondary damage. We are locally owned and operated, and we are trained and certified to help you with your water damage situation. For more information visit our website: Storm Damage Here, Water Damage Here, and Mold Damage Here.

The Most Common Types of Damage You May Face From Storms

2/14/2022 (Permalink)

Storms come in all shapes and sizes. The following are some of the most common types of damaging storms in the U.S. To be prepared, check your insurance policy and make sure you are covered for all the types of storms that affect your areas

Water Damage and Flooding:
Most common and destructive is flooding. Floods can occur from heavy rainfall in a few different ways. For homes with basements, water can rise above and overflow your sump pumps. For one story houses, flooding may occur on the bottom story. In either case, a minor flood sends contaminated water through your house causing damage.

High Wind Conditions:
During a strong rain or thunderstorm, high wind conditions can affect the outside of your Sacramento home or property. This damage can come in the form of downed trees, damaging roofs, breaking windows and their frames or shutters. This vulnerabilities unsolved will only get worse over time and give rise to further damage from storm conditions.

If and when a storm causes damage to help, contact SERVPRO of North Highlands / Rio Linda by visiting our website or calling us at (916) 991-1522

Sump Pump Failure

1/10/2022 (Permalink)

The storm has raged on with water non-stop and now your property has a power outage, what else could possibly go wrong?

Well if you are one of the many properties with a sump pump, quite a bit more could go horribly wrong. If you have a power outage and your sump pump fails, it can lead to flooding in your basement.

Ideally it is best to be prepared in advance for a power outage. But have no fear, SERVPRO of North Highlands / Rio Linda is no stranger to sump pump overflows and flooding. With 24 hour, 7 days a week emergency service, our response team is quick to help de-stress the issue and hopefully relieve the headache ensued by property damage.

If your home or business is a property with a sump pump, it is crucial to be prepared for a power outage.

Generators – these can provide power to your sump pump, house, and appliances. If you are in an area prone to power outages for multiple days it is a good idea to have a generator available.
Backups – this can be a backup battery operated sump pump or, a backup battery power source for your sump pump that can be flipped on.

These are two things you can get to avoid having your sump pump malfunction during a power outage.

But if a storm does cause any type of property damage, give us a call. Even in the rare chance that our services are not what you are looking for, we can make sure we direct you to who you need. SERVPRO of North Highlands / Rio Linda has the knowledge and experience dealing with many different restoration services. We understand the stress and confusion it causes and our office personnel have the experience and are more than happy to address any confusion or concerns you may have in your time of need. Call SERVPRO of North Highlands / Rio Linda 24/7 at 916-991-1522.

Safety During a Thunderstorm

12/13/2021 (Permalink)

Do you know what to do if you are stuck outside in a storm with lightening?

Here at SERVPRO of North Highlands / Rio Linda we want all our residents in our community to be as safe as possible during a storm. Remember: When thunder roars, go indoors. If you can find a safe, enclosed shelter. Some safe shelters include homes, offices, shopping centers, and hard-top vehicles with the windows rolled up.

If you are caught in an open area, and can’t find adequate shelter. Crouching or getting low to the ground can reduce your chances of being struck but does not remove you from danger. Here are some actions that can help you avoid lightening in the storm.

Immediately get off elevated areas such as hills, mountain ridges, or peaks.
Never lie flat on the ground. Crouch down in a ball-like position with your head tucked and hands over your ears so that you are down low with minimal contact with the ground.
Never shelter under an isolated tree.
Never use a cliff or rocky overhang for shelter.
Immediately get out of and away from ponds, lakes, and other bodies of water.
Stay away from objects that conduct electricity (such as barbed wire fences, power lines, or windmills).
Stay away from concrete floors or walls. Lightning can travel through any metal wires or bars in concrete walls or flooring.

Note:30-30 rule. After you see lightning, start counting to 30. If you hear thunder before you reach 30, go indoors. Suspend activities for at least 30 minutes after the last clap of thunder.

References: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors

What is a Workplace Emergency?

11/8/2021 (Permalink)

An unexpected emergency such as a natural disaster can strike at any time. A workplace emergency/disaster, is an unexpected situation that jeopardizes your employees, customers, and/or public. It can cause physical or environmental changes and a disruption to your business operations or possibly shuts your business down completely.

Workplace emergencies can be manmade or natural disasters, some examples include:

Fires
Floods
Earthquakes
Toxic gas
Explosions
Workplace Violence (that results in bodily harm, trauma, or death)
Civil Disturbances
Vandalism

If you experience a workplace emergency with damage to your property give SERVPRO of North Highlands / Rio Linda a call. Our staff is experienced and can help you understand what needs to be done next to get your business running as soon as possible. We are here for you, call us at (916)991-1522. You may also want to check out our free Emergency Ready Program, click here for more info.

Has the Weather caused Water Damage to your Home of Business?

10/11/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of North Highlands and Rio Linda are there 24 hours, 7 days a week to be your emergency service specialists, because we know Storm damage can happen at any time!

When it comes to water damage (and especially when it is due to natural disaster, or weather), it is important to act fast.

Within Minutes

Water will quickly spread throughout your property, and saturating everything in its path.
Water will absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings. Basically anything it touches.
Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.

Hours 1-24:

Drywall begins to swell and break down.
Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
Furniture begins to swell and crack.
Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
A musty odor will start to fill rooms.

48 Hours to 1 Week:

Mold and mildew may grow and spread throughout your property.
Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
Metal begins to rust and corrode.
Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
Paint begins to blister.
Wood flooring swells and warps.
Also serious biohazard contamination is possible throughout the property.

More Than 1 Week:

Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.
Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; due to need of replacing contaminated materials.
To remove all biohazard contaminants Structural rebuilding may be needed.

SERVPRO of North Highlands / Rio Linda has the knowledge and experience dealing with many different types of Storms throughout the years. We understand the stress and confusion it causes. We are here when you need help. Call us 24/7 at (916) 991-1522, we are more than happy to address any confusion or concerns you may have in your time of need.

January and February are Flood Season!

7/18/2021 (Permalink)

Historically Sacramento’s worse floods and storms have been in January and February SERVPRO of North Highlands / Rio Linda wants everyone in the community to be prepared and safe during flooding season.

During Flood Safety Tips

If you can safely, turn off all utilities to your home before leaving.
Turn Around, Don’t Drown! Avoid walking or driving through flood waters.
Just 6 inches of moving water can knock you down, and 2 feet of water can sweep your vehicle away.
If floodwaters rise around your car but the water is not moving, abandon the car and move to higher ground. Do not leave the car and enter moving water.
If there is a downed power line Stay away and keep others away from them. Call 9-1-1 immediately to report the location of a downed line.

After Flooding

Return home only if your area has been cleared to reenter by local Police and Fire Departments.
Avoid moving water.
Stay away from damaged areas and any areas under water, unless your assistance has been specifically requested by police, fire, or relief organization.
Red Cross provides great information on what to do after a flood and has numbers available for help.
We are here to help you every step of the way

Remember, SERVPRO of North Highlands / Rio Linda is here for you. We want everyone to be safe and will help answer questions and concerns you may have about flooding and coverage in your area. You can give us a call at 916-991-1522. We have a trained professional available 24/7 for all emergencies.

Do You Have an Emergency Ready Kit?

4/14/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of North Highlands / Rio Linda safety tube kit with: Mask, Whistle, Light Stick, Water Pouch, and Emergency Blanket.

It is Always a Good Idea to have an EMERGENCY READY KIT available in your home. The greater Sacramento area is no stranger to rolling blackouts, and you don't want to be stuck in the dark. When creating and emergency ready kit you want to make sure you have enough items for at least 72hrs. Here are a few necessities to have ready:

Flashlights for each family member
Extra batteries
Battery operated radio
Candles (matches)
Non-perishable food
Hand can opener
Water bottles
Walky-talkies
Solar battery charger for phone
First aid kit

It is important that every family member knows where your are going to store these items for your emergency ready kit. It is also important to periodically check to make sure everything is fully stocked and not expired.

If you have a storm related emergency and your property has damage don't hesitate to give SERVPRO of North Highlands / Rio Linda a call. We can talk you through the issue and if it is one of the few services we do not provide we can point you in the right direction. We have emergency services available 24 hours. Call SERVPRO of North Highlands / Rio Linda at (916)991-1522.

When Wind and Rain Comes, We are Here for You!

2/2/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of North Highlands / Rio Linda Downed Tree

SERVPRO of North Highlands / Rio Linda reports to a home in the greater Sacramento area with a downed tree and damage after a storm.

High Wind Conditions:

During a strong rain or thunderstorm, high wind conditions can affect the outside of your home or business. The high winds can cause fallen trees, roof damage, and/or broken windows and their frames and shutters. If not fixed the problem will only get worse over time and give rise to further damage from storm conditions.

Water Damage and Flooding:

Most common storm damage is flooding. Floods can occur from heavy rainfall in a few different ways. If you have a basement; water can rise above and overflow your sump pumps. In other cases, flooding may occur when the ground becomes over saturated around your property causing crawl spaces to flood or water to seep into your property through the foundation slab. In either case, a minor flood sends contaminated water through your property causing damage.

If you are affected by storm damage, Contact SERVPRO of North Highlands / Rio Linda to help. You can visit our website or call us at (916)991-1522. SERVPRO of North Highlands / Rio Linda has 24 hour emergency services.

When is Flood Season?

12/21/2020 (Permalink)

Historically Sacramento’s worse floods have been in January and February.

SERVPRO of North Highlands / Rio Linda wants everyone in the community to be prepared and safe during flooding season. You can prepare for a flooding emergency before it happens.

Before a Flood Prepare

1.Know the risk of flooding in your area and get flood insurance if in a flood area. (Home insurance does not cover water that comes into a house from outside, you need flood specified insurance to be covered. Talk to your agent and know you are covered.)

2.Elevate the furnace, water heater, and electric panel in your home if you live in an area that has a high flood risk.

3.Install “check valves” to prevent flood water from backing up into the drains of your home.

4.Keep a good amount of water bottles in your home ready in case of any emergency.

5.If in a high risk flood area you may want to construct barriers to stop floodwaters from entering your home. Also stock up on sandbags ahead of time! During a flood watch sandbag locations can be found by calling 311. (In past years, local suppliers of sandbags have ran out as the rain continued and flooding got worse so it is important to be prepared ahead of time.)

6.Follow the directions provided via media and by the Police and Fire Departments to ensure that you are heading in the safest possible direction.

7.Create a plan and practice the plan. Talk with family members about where to go and what to do during a flood emergency. (Practicing your plan with your family helps the whole family but is especially helpful to the younger ones in your family. It can not only help them know exactly what to do in the situation but also help keep them from being as scared during the flood.)

8.Don’t forget your pets! Have an emergency kit ready for them as well including their transportation needs, carriers, and leashes.

9.Have an emergency kit ready to go stocked with

Copies of important documents (insurance and credit cards, birth certificates, deeds, photo IDs, proof of address, etc.) and cash in small bills kept in a waterproof container
Extra set of car and house keys
Bottled water and nonperishable food, such as energy or granola bars
Flashlight with extra batteries, though LED flashlights are recommended
Battery-operated AM/FM radio
Extra chargers and batteries for mobile phones and devices
Extra medication and a list of the medications each family member takes, why they take them and their dosages
First-aid kit
Toiletries
Notepad and pen
Contact and meeting place information for your household, and a small regional map
Lightweight rain gear and a Mylar blanket

During Flood Safety Tips

1.If you can safely, turn off all utilities to your home before leaving.

2.Turn Around, Don’t Drown! Avoid walking or driving through flood waters.

3.Just 6 inches of moving water can knock you down, and 2 feet of water can sweep your vehicle away.

4.If floodwaters rise around your car but the water is not moving, abandon the car and move to higher ground. Do not leave the car and enter moving water.

5.If there is a downed power line Stay away and keep others away from them. Call 9-1-1 immediately to report the location of a downed line.

After Flooding

1.Return home only if your area has been cleared to reenter by local Police and Fire Departments.

2.Avoid moving water.

3.Stay away from damaged areas and any areas under water, unless your assistance has been specifically requested by police, fire, or relief organization.

4.Red Cross provides great information on what to do after a flood and has numbers available for help.

Remember, SERVPRO of North Highlands / Rio Linda is here for you. We want everyone to be safe and will help answer questions and concerns you may have about flooding and coverage in your area. You can give us a call at 916-991-1522. We have a trained professional available 24 hours a day for all emergencies.

The Dangers of Standing Flood Water From A Storm

12/20/2020 (Permalink)

Danger Of Storm Damage

Storms and hurricanes devastate different regions every year. Unfortunately, some of the biggest dangers caused by storms can occur after the storm has already passed. In addition to a lack of supplies and road closures, the standing flood water resulting from storms can cause serious health risks. Here are some of the most severe problems floods can bring.

Health Dangers

Standing flood water is teeming with health risks. The CDC has a section detailing all of the possible diseases that become more likely in the event of a storm disaster, including Norovirus and the West Nile Virus. Bacterial infections and diseases become a greater possibility because flood water can infect everything it touches. This can include anything from articles of clothing to the toys that children play with. For this reason, it is incredibly important not to drink or eat anything that has been contaminated by standing flood water, and to always wash hands as often as possible- especially before meals. In addition, open wounds pose a far greater risk of becoming infected as a result of storm waters. If at all possible, keep open wounds out of the water or cover with waterproof bandages.

Physical Hazards

Disease isn't the only invisible hazard that can exist within standing water. Murky water can conceal dangerous insects or even threatening animals beneath the surface. Much of this depends on the location of the storm, but it's not unheard of for alligators to make use of a new habitat resulting from a storm. In addition, much of the physical damage caused by a storm is still present in the water. This can include broken glass or sharp metal which might be impossible to see before it causes injury. On top of that, storms frequently cause damage to power lines. These can lead to a risk of electrocution in standing water. Flood water itself poses the possibility of causing drowning, whether people are in their cars or trying to swim across.

If you need storm damage repair or water damage cleanup, contact the team at SERVPRO North Highlands/ Rio Linda today.

When Storms or Floods Hit, SERVPRO is here!

12/20/2020 (Permalink)

Resources To Handle Floods

SERVPRO of North Highlands/ Rio Linda specializes in storm and flood damage restoration. We use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

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

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We have traveled to many areas of the country to help those affected by storm damage. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,700 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Falling Trees Don't Have the Best Aim!

10/4/2020 (Permalink)

Local Sacramento home after this tree fell as a result of strong wind conditions.

Regardless of the season, bad weather can strike at anytime. What bad weather is might change person to person, but its smart to prepare for difficult weather in advance. Stockpiling a few items and preparing an emergency kit will help you stay safe. Here are a few items you can throw together for your home emergency kit.

A battery operated weather radio will allow you to stay up to date with information, even when the power goes out. Having extra batteries for this, and your other devices can allow you to continue to have flashlights and communication during power outages.

When living in areas that can be cold, a small generator on hand is smart. If the power goes out, and you need to produce heat, the generator will put you on the safe side of this situation. Its also smart to purchase generators in off seasons, such as late spring, summer, or fall when they are cheaper and not in demand.

Bad weather doesn’t always come when you're at home, so prepare your car for these situations as well. Make that next trip to Tahoe this summer just that much safer!
Having a few extra non-expirable food items for these situations can be a pertinent decision as well. Bottled water is a must, but some other common items to buy include granola bars, soups, dry milk, and anything that comes in a can.
If the next big storm in Sacramento causes damage to your property, be sure to call SERVPRO of Rio Linda and North Highlands to help you make it “Like it never even happened.” Call us at (916) 991-1522.

HOW STORM RESTORATION SERVICES HELP YOUR HOME

7/18/2020 (Permalink)

2020 Storm Damage

When your home sustains storm damage, it's important to schedule storm restoration services as quickly as possible to prevent further damage to your house.

When water enters your home, it'scrucial to quickly address water damagebefore it becomes a bigger problem. If water is left to sit on your flooring, inside your walls, or on your books or other objects, it can cause irreparable damage and cause a hefty repair bill. Calling a 24/7 storm restoration company as soon as possible helps to mitigate these problems and get your home back in working order quickly before mold growth or drywall damage occurs.

Hail Damage Can Cause Broken Windows, Remove Roof Shingles, & Deteriorate Your Property

At SERVPRO North Highlands/ Rio Linda, call us to get an estimate.

Any Type of Disaster, Any Time SERVPRO is There For You!

7/1/2020 (Permalink)

The Best Way to Reduce Business Interruption Following a Disaster is to Plan For it NOW!

According to the latest research, as many as 50% of businesses close down following a disaster. Of the businesses that survive, a overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning and knowing you are “Ready for whatever happens” will give you peace of mind.

SERVPRO of North Highlands / Rio Linda can create an Emergency READY Profile for your business.

The Emergency Ready Plan will -

Help to minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action.
Help you know what to do, who to call and what to expect.
Help minimize the affects of water and fire.

Are You Ready? Preparation is a key component for making it through any size disaster, whether it’s a small water leak, a large fire or an area flood. The best time for planning for such events is not when the event happens, but before it happens. No one ever plans on a disaster, but you can plan for it. Now is the time to ask yourself, “Are you Ready for whatever happens?”

Call SERVPRO of North Highlands / Rio Linda Today 916-991-1522

How to Prepare for Hurricane Season

7/1/2020 (Permalink)

2020 Hurricane Season

Hurricanes are powerful and unpredictable storms that can cause immense damages in their path. To stay safe and protect your property during a hurricane, preparedness is key. Check out how to prepare for hurricanes and what to do during and after one.

Hurricane Preparedness Tips

Before the Hurricane

Create an emergency kit. FEMA recommends packing the following items in your emergency kit:
- Water for drinking and sanitation to last at least 3 days;
- Non-perishable food for at least 3 days;
- Hand crank or battery-powered radio (tuned in to NOAA Weather Radio), as well as spare batteries;
- Flashlight with extra batteries;
- First aid kit;
- Whistle to call for help;
- Dust mask, plastic sheeting and duct-tape for shelter making;
- Moist towelettes and garbage bags for sanitation;
- Pliers or wrench to turn off utilities;
- Can opener;
- Local maps;
- Cell phone with an extra charger.

Learn your area’s flooding risk and community hurricane evacuation routes. Know the geographical area you live in.
Create a family evacuation plan. Determine a meeting place for your family and routes to get there. Plan how to get in touch with your family if separated. Plan where you’ll go if you must evacuate, such as a shelter.
If you don’t have flood insurance, get one now. Regular homeowners insurance policies don’t cover flood damage.
Find out whether your property is flood-prone due to its elevation level.
If there are levees and dams in your area, find out if they pose a hazard to you when the storm hits.
Store copies of important documents, such as proof of ownership of any property in your emergency kit.
Back up the data on your electronic devices to ensure it’s secure if your computer or other devices are damaged during the hurricane.

Secure Your Property:

Secure your roof. Make your roofing and frames stronger by installing reinforcements, such as straps or clips. Also, secure loose shingles with heavy-duty adhesive and seal around your home’s chimney or vent pipes to keep water out.
Maintain gutters and downspouts. Clean your gutters and downspouts regularly to prevent clogs. These could cause water damage to your home when the rain starts to pour. Also ensure your gutters are strong and not sagging.
Secure your windows. Strong winds can shatter your windows, leaving your home vulnerable. The best way to secure your windows is to install permanent storm shutters, which can be made of steel, aluminum, and other materials. Installing plywood is also a good defense for your windows. However, avoid taping as it doesn’t prevent glass from breaking.
Caulk your home. Caulking is a fast way to waterproof your house and reinforce vulnerable areas. Caulk around your windows and doors, the edges of your house, and around chimneys and other roof penetrations.
Insulate the outside first floor walls with rigid foam or install plastic sheeting. It won’t stop all the water from getting in, but most of the silt will be kept out.
Reinforce your garage. To make it withstand powerful winds, secure your garage door with a brace kit rated for storm and hurricane winds. Other ways to strengthen your garage door are installing a metal post system or covering the door with metal panels, fabric screen or 5/8-inch plywood.
Trim trees and shrubs. Loose branches in your yard (and neighborhood) could be struck by powerful winds during a storm, damaging your house. So cut those dead or loose branches to safeguard your property.
Secure loose objects. Your yard may also host objects that could become projectiles in high winds. Tie down and secure anything that could be swept up by winds, such as potted plants, lawn furniture, and dog houses. When a storm is imminent, bring light objects inside.
Protect appliances from power outages. While you should unplug electrical devices during a powerful storm, it’s ideal to also purchase a surge protector. It prevents damage to your devices in case the power goes out.
Move valuables to a higher floor. As electronics and appliances are susceptible to water damage, move them to a higher floor. If you can’t, at least raise them off the floor on concrete blocks.
Use sandbags when a storm is hours from arriving. Pile up sandbags at least two feet high as an efficient barricade against floodwaters. If you don’t have sandbags, place heavy-duty garbage bags – filled one-third of the way with water – around your house doors.

When a storm is hours from arriving:
- Ensure your car in good working condition and fill up the gas tank. If you’re going to evacuate, stock your vehicle with emergency supplies.
- Charge your cell phone to have a full battery if the power goes out.
- Turn your refrigerator to the coldest setting so that food lasts longer during a power outage.
- Be alert for the latest weather updates and emergency instructions.

During the Hurricane

If authorities advise or order you to evacuate your area, take your emergency kit and leave immediately. Strictly follow posted evacuation routes and do not try to take shortcuts.
If you are outside and the storm approaches, get indoors as soon as possible to avoid being hit by flying debris.
If your home is on low-lying ground or if you’re in a mobile home, go to the nearest safe place, such as a shelter.
While indoors, stay away from windows, skylights and glass doors. Find a safer spot to stay in, such as an interior room or a bathroom on the lower level.
During the storm, electrical wiring may be damaged; don’t use electrical appliances to avoid fire hazards and electrical shocks.
If your home is under the risk of flooding, turn off electricity at the main circuit breaker. Don’t turn on electricity until local authorities have advised you to do so.
Never use gasoline-powered or charcoal-burning devices inside to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Keep those devices outside.
If trapped in a building that’s flooding, go to the highest level. However, don’t climb into a closed attic as rising floodwater may trap you.
Lightning is also a safety risk. Stay safe from lightning in your home during a storm by NOT using the shower, phone, or electrical equipment.
Be aware that the eye of the storm may pass over your area, during which the storm will calm. However, the storm can start again without warning.
Stay indoors until the local authorities have announced that the storm is over. Listen to the radio or turn on the TV (if safe do so) to get the latest updates.

After the Hurricane

Listen to authorities for information and special instructions.
Never walk or drive on flooded roads or through water. Just six inches of fast-moving water can knock you down, and one foot of moving water can sweep your vehicle away. Floodwater may also can contain contaminants, dangerous debris or downed power lines.
Enter a damaged building only after the electrical system, gas lines, and plumbing have been inspected for damage.
Take photos of any property damage and contact your insurance company for assistance. Wear protective equipment such as gloves, safety glasses, rubber boots, and masks when inspecting your home.
Don’t touch wet electrical equipment, more so if you’re standing in water.
Throw out food that has been exposed to floodwaters or have not been maintained at a proper temperature. When in doubt, throw it out.
Don’t drink tap water if you’re not sure it’s safe.

For flood cleanup services, contact the SERVPRO North Highlands/ Rio Linda drying professionals

How Can I Protect My Home From Flood Damage?

7/1/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO to Restore Your Flood Damaged Home

Technicians Offer Professional Flood Damage Mitigation for Homes

Home flooding is the most common natural disaster in the continental United States. While the surface-level damage caused by floodwater, silt, debris, and contaminants is overwhelming enough on its own, flooding also requires rapid mitigation because of the damage it can do behind wall cavities and beneath floors.

SERVPRO offers emergency-response flood damage mitigation for Jefferson residents. Theses Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) accredited technicians, provide comprehensive disaster cleanup that includes the following:

A thorough initial inspection by a SERVPRO crew chief to develop a plan of action for saving your home from flood damage.
A rapid-response team that is available day and night to restore your home, including on weekends and holidays.
In-depth extraction, sanitation, and drying can be accomplished with SERVPRO’s own power sources when yours have been affected by flooding.
Restoration and rebuilding services provide cost-effective home cleanup while safely minimizing loss of structures and contents.

Preventative and Emergency Measures for Home Flooding

Be Prepared Before Disaster Strikes

Formulate an emergency plan with your family before a disaster. Keep an emergency kit at the ready with enough first aid, shelf-stable food, water, medicine, and other necessities for everyone.
Keep photos and digital copies of documents, valuables, and other items and store this data in a safe, off-site location.
Consult with licensed professionals about implementing landscaping, drainage systems, waterproofing, or barriers that can lessen the impact of home flooding.

During the Flood

Monitor the situation with an NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) weather radio.
Move important documents and other valuables to higher ground or an upper floor. Make use of sandbags for fast-acting diversion of floodwater.
Focus on personal safety for yourself and your loved ones above all else. Avoid making contact with floodwater and focus on keeping occupants safe until the disaster has passed.

After Flooding Subsides

Do not make contact with floodwater and avoid interacting with electrical components affected by flooding.
Call your insurer as soon as possible to file a claim. A prompt filing is more likely to provide faster service and compensation from your insurance provider.
Document damage with photos, video, and detailed descriptions of affected structures and property before performing any temporary repairs.

SERVPRO is ready to coordinate with property owners and insurance adjusters to ensure that cleanup is performed per IICRC standards and your insurance policy.

How SERVPRO Restores Flood-Damaged Belongings

SERVPRO techs have the resources to take the content of your home off-site for thorough cleaning. This process, called a pack out, entails technicians documenting, packing, and moving damaged items room by room for restoration. This process not only bolsters your proof of loss claim with extensive written, photo, and video evidence, but it also strives to prevent loss to a variety of items in your home, including:

Books and documents
Electronics and digital media
Keepsakes, heirlooms, and antiques
Collectibles, jewelry, and artwork
Children’s toys and items of sentimental value

SERVPRO of North Highlands/ Rio Linda offers mitigation that is Faster to Any Size Disaster. Call for an emergency response team to come to your home.

What is STORM?

5/29/2020 (Permalink)

Aerial View of SERVPRO Disaster Recovery Team in Macy's parking lot

As time has gone on the way SERVPRO defines a storm has evolved.

Originally STORM was used as a rallying call to all SERVPROs to help in areas where more than just the local franchises were needed to help everyone that was affected. These events included massive rainstorms, hurricanes, and flash floods.

However, those aren't the only natural disasters that happen in our world.

This massive network of hundreds of franchises willing to travel became a saving grace to those affected by all kinds of catastrophic events. Wildfires, sudden widespread freezing temperatures, even earthquakes suddenly became part of this movement.

That is STORM to SERVPRO it is the first name we gave it and it is the name that stuck.

In every disaster there is overwhelming emotions. We have had wildfires cause havoc throughout California and now we are experiencing a pandemic with the rest of the world. It is easy to get caught up in all the pain and hardship, but we have to work together to lift emotions. Focus on the positives of the future, if you need help don't be afraid to tell someone, and never lose your hope.

Time to Clean out your Storm Drains!

2/12/2020 (Permalink)

It is that time of the year when the storms are headed our way. So what does that mean for you? This means commercial and home property owners should take the time to clear out all your drains and gutters. Not clearing out the drains and gutters around your property during the storm season can cause you to have debris build up. I’m sure you are wondering how that can affect your property; well debris build up can lead to a water loss. So before the storms come in to town you should head out to your commercial or home property and clean out the drains and gutters.

If your home experiences damage from the storms give the experts a call at SERVPRO of North Highlands / Rio Linda 916-991-1522.

How will you be safe and prepared this flood season?

12/27/2019 (Permalink)

Flooding in Linda, California February 1986. Screenshot from The Forgotten Flood

Historically Sacramento’s worse floods have been in January and February

SERVPRO of North Highlands / Rio Linda wants everyone in the community to be prepared and safe during flooding season. You can prepare for a flooding emergency before it happens.

Before a Flood Prepare

Know the risk of flooding in your area and get flood insurance if in a flood area. (Home insurance does not cover water that comes into a house from outside, you need flood specified insurance to be covered. Talk to your agent and know you are covered.)
Elevate the furnace, water heater, and electric panel in your home if you live in an area that has a high flood risk.
Install “check valves” to prevent flood water from backing up into the drains of your home.
Keep a good amount of water bottles in your home ready in case of any emergency.
If in a high risk flood area you may want to construct barriers to stop floodwaters from entering your home. Also stock up on sandbags ahead of time! During a flood watch sandbag locations can be found by calling 311. (In past years, local suppliers of sandbags have ran out as the rain continued and flooding got worse so it is important to be prepared ahead of time.)
Follow the directions provided via media and by the Police and Fire Departments to ensure that you are heading in the safest possible direction.
Create a plan and practice the plan. Talk with family members about where to go and what to do during a flood emergency. (Practicing your plan with your family helps the whole family but is especially helpful to the younger ones in your family. It can not only help them know exactly what to do in the situation but also help keep them from being as scared during the flood.)
Don’t forget your pets! Have an emergency kit ready for them as well including their transportation needs, carriers, and leashes.
Have an emergency kit ready to go stocked with

Copies of important documents (insurance and credit cards, birth certificates, deeds, photo IDs, proof of address, etc.) and cash in small bills kept in a waterproof container
Extra set of car and house keys
Bottled water and nonperishable food, such as energy or granola bars
Flashlight with extra batteries, though LED flashlights are recommended
Battery-operated AM/FM radio
Extra chargers and batteries for mobile phones and devices
Extra medication and a list of the medications each family member takes, why they take them and their dosages
First-aid kit
Toiletries
Notepad and pen
Contact and meeting place information for your household, and a small regional map
Lightweight rain gear and a Mylar blanket

During Flood Safety Tips

If you can safely, turn off all utilities to your home before leaving.
Turn Around, Don’t Drown! Avoid walking or driving through flood waters.
Just 6 inches of moving water can knock you down, and 2 feet of water can sweep your vehicle away.
If floodwaters rise around your car but the water is not moving, abandon the car and move to higher ground. Do not leave the car and enter moving water.
If there is a downed power line Stay away and keep others away from them. Call 9-1-1 immediately to report the location of a downed line.

After Flooding

Return home only if your area has been cleared to reenter by local Police and Fire Departments.
Avoid moving water.
Stay away from damaged areas and any areas under water, unless your assistance has been specifically requested by police, fire, or relief organization.
Red Cross provides great information on what to do after a flood and has numbers available for help.

We are here to help you every step of the way

Do you have an Emergency Ready Kit?

12/20/2019 (Permalink)

With it being winter season it is important to have an emergency ready kit available in your home. With living in North Highlands / Rio Linda it is important to stay prepared in case a winter storm hits and causes a power outage for multiple days. When creating an emergency ready kit you want to make sure you have enough items for at least 72hrs. Here are a few necessities to have ready:

Flashlights for each family member.
Extra batteries.
Battery operated radio
Candles (matches).
Non-perishable food.
Hand can opener.
Water bottles.
Walky-talkies.
First aid kit.

It is important that every family member knows where you are going to store these items for your emergency ready kit. It is also important to periodically check to make sure everything is fully stocked in your emergency ready kit.

Let SERVPRO of North Highlands / Rio Linda know if you have a loss we can help with. You can contact our office at 916-991-1522.

What Does RED FLAG WARNINGS & FIRE WEATHER WATCHES mean?

7/15/2019 (Permalink)

When it’s hot out, keep an eye out for fire weather. The National Weather Service has safety tips and all heat and storm warnings.

A Red Flag Warning is issued for weather events which may result in extreme fire behavior that will occur within 24 hours. A Fire Weather Watch is issued when weather conditions could exist in the next 12-72 hours.

Fire Weather

The type of weather patterns that can cause a watch or warning include low relative humidity, strong winds, dry fuels, the possibility of dry lightning strikes, or any combination of the above.More information available at The National Weather Service

Helpful Safety Tips and Reminders

As the months roll on in the area with hot weather SERVPRO of North Highlands / Rio Linda not only wants you to stay safe and hydrated during the heat but also be prepared to keep your town and properties safe as well. Here are some Safety Tips to follow during red flag warnings & fire weather watches:

Equipment Use Safety

Don’t mow or trim dry grass on Red Flag Warning days. Instead, mow before 10 a.m. when it is not hot and windy.
Never use lawn mowers in dry vegetation.
If you are in a wild land area, make sure you have a spark arrester, which is required for portable gasoline powered equipment.

Campfire Safety

Before starting a campfire, obtain a campfire permit.
Never leave a fire unattended.
Carefully extinguish the fire when you are finished. Douse with plenty of water and stir to make sure everything is cold to the touch. Dunk charcoal in water until it is cold. Do not throw live charcoal on the ground.

Outside

Keep 100 feet of defensible space around structures.
Clear dead weeds and vegetation.
Remove leaves and needles from gutters.
Trim branches 6 feet from the ground.
If you are allowed to burn grass clippings, etc., in your area, all burn barrels must be covered with a weighted metal cover, with holes no larger than 3/4 of an inch.

Vehicles

Never pull over in dry grass.
Make sure trailer chains don’t drag on the ground.
Properly maintain your vehicle.
Monitor tire pressure to avoid driving on wheel rims, which can ignite.
Don’t let brake pads wear too thin.
Never throw cigarettes or matches out of a moving vehicle.

Other

Properly extinguish cigarette butts.
Don’t make the mistake of burning landscape debris like leaves or branches on No Burn Days, when it is windy, or if it is prohibited in your area.
Target shoot only in approved areas, use lead ammunition only, and never shoot at metal targets.
To prevent arson, report suspicious activities to authorities.

We Are Here For You

Thank You

During heightened fire danger, CAL FIRE will place additional firefighters on duty, staff more fire engines and keep more equipment on 24 hours a day to be able to respond to any new fires. SERVPRO of North Highlands / Rio Linda would like to take a moment to thank all the Cal Fire Firefighters for being there keeping California safe.

After the Storm!

5/31/2019 (Permalink)

In Sacramento, thunder storms happen more than we would like them to and you never know when they are going to hit. It is always important to have a safety plan and be prepared for when they do hit your home or business. It is always good to have an emergency kit ready with a first aid kit, flashlights, plenty of water, and maybe a few nonperishable snacks. You never know how long you will be without power and resources for food and clean water.

When the storm surpasses there is usually some clean up to do depending on the size of the storm that hit your home. It may be anything from flooding to a tree falling onto your home. We have the specialized equipment and training needed to help get your home to where it was before the storm hit.

Our team at SERVPRO of North Highlands / Rio Linda has the specialized equipment and experience needed to get the job done in a timely manner. Give us a call at 916-991-1522 and let our team help you restore your home after a storm.

Storms In Sacramento!

5/29/2019 (Permalink)

As you know living in the Sacramento area that the weather can change any time of the year causing flooding. Our team is always ready for a storm whether it is large or small. The perk of being independently owned is that we are able to respond faster to any disaster.

When there is a large storm that comes through the Sacramento area and causes flooding call the experts at SERVPRO of North Highlands / Rio Linda. Our teams of experts have the specialized equipment and are highly trained to restore your damaged property to the pre-storm condition.

Always make sure that if you are stuck to get to a safe location as soon as possible. Keep a few emergency kits available in the home, business, and cars. If you have any questions or need our assistance feel free to contact us at 916-991-1522.

When Disaster Affects You, SERVPRO of North Highlands / Rio Linda is ready!

5/1/2019 (Permalink)

The Best Way to Reduce Business Interruption Following a Disaster is to Plan For it NOW!

SERVPRO of North Highlands / Rio Linda can create an Emergency READY Profile for your business.

The Emergency Ready Plan will -

Help to minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action.
Help you know what to do, who to call and what to expect.
Help minimize the affects of water and fire.

Are You Ready? Preparation is a key component for making it through any size disaster, whether it’s a small water leak, a large fire or an area flood. The best time for planning for such events is not when the event happens, but before it happens. No one ever plans on a disaster, but you can plan for it. Now is the time to ask yourself, “Are you Ready for whatever happens?”

Call SERVPRO of North Highlands / Rio Linda Today 916-991-1522

What is a Storm?

4/24/2019 (Permalink)

An eerily beautiful wildfire photo. Hopefully this can stand as a metaphor, that even in disaster we can move on to something beautiful.

As time has gone on the way SERVPRO defines a storm has evolved.

Originally STORM was used as a rallying call to all SERVPROs to help in areas where more than just the local franchises were needed to help everyone that was affected. These events included massive rainstorms, hurricanes, and flash floods.

However, those aren't the only natural disasters that happen in our world.

This massive network of hundreds of franchises willing to travel became a saving grace to those affected by all kinds of catastrophic events. Wildfires, sudden widespread freezing temperatures, even earthquakes suddenly became part of this movement.

That is STORM to SERVPRO it is the first name we gave it and it is the name that stuck.

In every disaster there is overwhelming emotions. We have to try our best to smile through the worst and work toward better days together. All in all we must never lose our hope, even in the most trying of times.

With the recent wildfires that have caused havoc throughout California it is easy to get caught up in all the pain and hardship, but we have to work together to lift emotions. Smile even though it hurts, focus on the positives of the future instead of dwelling on the negatives of the past, if you need help don't be afraid to tell someone, and never lose your hope.

This goes out to all of the families that have been affected by the California wildfires. You have the strength to get through this, believe in yourselves, your family, and your friends.

Importance of Carbon Monoxide Alarms.

10/25/2018 (Permalink)

All homes and commercial properties should have CO alarms to keep your family and friends safe.

If you have a generator on hand for power outages during severe weather storms, follow the safety tips below from the American Red Cross:

Never use a generator, grill or camp stove, or other gasoline, propane, natural gas, or charcoal-burning devices inside a home, garage, basement, crawl space, or any partially enclosed area.

To avoid electrocution, keep the generator dry and do not use in rain or wet conditions. Do not touch the generator with wet hands.

Opening doors or windows and using fans will not prevent carbon monoxide (CO) buildup in the home. Although CO can’t be seen and has no scent, it is very dangerous and can rapidly lead to loss of consciousness and death.

Even if you cannot smell exhaust fumes, you may still be exposed to CO. If you start to feel sick, dizzy, or weak while using a generator, get to fresh air immediately.

Install CO alarms in central locations on every level of your home or property and outside sleeping areas to provide early warning of accumulating carbon monoxide.

If your home or business suffers from any type of storm damage, call SERVPRO of North Highlands/Rio Linda at 916-991-1522 and we will send a professional out to assist with making your home safe for you and your family.

Preparing for Bad Weather

5/28/2018 (Permalink)

Regardless of the season, bad weather can strike at anytime. What bad weather is might change person to person, but it is smart to prepare for difficult weather in advance. Stockpiling a few items and preparing an emergency kit will help you stay safe. Here are a few items you can throw together for your home emergency kit.

A battery operated weather radio will allow you to stay up to date with information, even when the power goes out. Having extra batteries for this, and your other devices can allow you to continue to have flashlights and communication during power outages.
When living in areas that can be cold, a small generator on hand is smart. If the power goes out, and you need to produce heat, the generator will put you on the safe side of this situation. Its also smart to purchase generators in off seasons, such as late spring, summer, or fall when they are cheaper and not in demand.

Bad weather doesn’t always come when you're at home, so prepare your car for these situations as well. Make that next trip to Tahoe this summer just that much safer!

Having a few extra non-expirable food items for these situations can be a pertinent decision as well. Bottled water is a must, but some other common items to buy include granola bars, soups, dry milk, and anything that comes in a can.

If the next big storm in Sacramento causes damage to your property, be sure to call SERVPRO of Rio Linda and North Highlands to help you make it “Like It Never Even Happened”. Call us at (916) 991-1522, or visit our website for more information.

Sacramento Flood Damage - Facts about Flood Damage in Sacramento

4/8/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of North Highlands & Rio Linda here to give you facts about flood damage in Sacramento

Everyone resides in a flood zone. Even dry areas can experience flash floods, especially after a drought with heavy rainfall. Rivers, streams, and lakes can overflow with a few extra rainy days.

A few inches of water can cause thousands of dollars worth of damage to your Sacramento home. Flood damage can also affect your Sacramento commercial building. It is possible that your insurance plan does not cover flood damage because you may not be an immediate risk to this common type of home damage.

Here are some facts and prevention tips about flood damage:

Flood damage, on average, can cost around $5,000 to $10,000. How much damage, and the cost to repair that depends on what type of water affected your property, and how much water there was.
Having a plumber inspect and flush your water heater at least once a year is a recommended way to prevent failure, and subsequent flooding of water from that container.
Survey your house, inspect, and replace rubber hoses that are old, worn, or may become faulty. Metal or braided hoses will not go hard and burst like rubber, and continue to check all hoses.
Toilet leaks will appear as a small leakage from the base of the toilet, check for these to see if this needs to be repaired.
When moving into a new apartment, space, or business, locate the main water shutoff. If something bursts, you need to know where this is quickly to be able to prevent further damage.
Always keep your eye out for unwanted moisture, or signs of water damage on your walls or ceilings.
Often leaks or breaks in plumbing happen where pipes can’t be seen. If you suspect a leak, turn off all water usage. Then, check your water meter, wait an hour, and check again. If you have used any more water, you will know you have a leak.
Furthermore, if you have a spike in your water bill you may have a leak. Keep an eye on these to make sure you are properly informed about your Sacramento home or business.

If or when you experience flood damage in your Sacramento home, call SERVPRO of North Highlands & Rio Linda at (916) 991-1522, or visit our website for storm or water damage information.

Sacramento’s Storms This Winter: Sump Pumps & Flood Prevention

2/3/2018 (Permalink)

A flood isn’t necessarily a monsoon, water can seep into your basement and you need to prevent it

A roof leak, or a growing pool of water outside due to a blocked drain may seem like the most common types of flooding. Most houses with basements have sump pumps, and it is important to keep these pumps clear of debris in order to prevent flooding due to water in the basement. The danger in a flooded basement lies in the uses we have for it, often we use it for storing old family heirlooms or tools which can be quickly ruined by water.

Sump pump maintenance should be done at least annually to make sure that it will perform properly when the next larger than average storm hits. Testing it with water, cleaning any filtration, and emptying the pit of debris are all good ways to keep it operating properly.

When the next disaster strikes your Sacramento home, be sure to call SERVPRO of North Highlands and Rio Linda. We are ready and able to professionally restore and repair your water loss event. Call us 24/7 for your emergency at (916) 991-1522.

Stay Dry, Sacramento!

12/18/2017 (Permalink)

Even though rain can be pretty exciting, its important to understand all weather comes with its own safety concerns. A few misconceptions to clear up, and a few tips to help you stay dry this winter.

Don’t use candles when the power goes out - as fun as it might be, candles used in place of lights are actually poor light sources, and a simply made fire hazard
Have a safety kit, which you can read more about in our other blog posts
If there is thunder, stay in doors - Lightning is not as rare as you think, and this is only a rule of thumb for other possible dangers
Keep your refrigerator closed when the powers out - The longer your food stays refrigerated, the longer you can stay indoors.
Notify the power company exactly when the power goes out - The power company may not yet know that there is a service issue, and can get on the problem as soon as possible
Stay as far away from power lines as possible - This includes powerlines that have been downed, and powerlines that are in contact with trees. If something happens during a storm, contact the service provider.

We hope you stay dry, and flood free in Sacramento this winter. Feel free to call us at (916) 991-1522, or visit our website for information on our services.

Lightning Safety for the Next Sacramento Storm

11/8/2017 (Permalink)

For your safety, it is important to have a plan and be ready to make changes to your day when there are conditions for lightning. If there is a thunderstorm in your area, there is no safe place outside. Lightning is fairly rare compared to the amount of people in a given area but that does not relieve the danger. If you can hear thunder, no matter the distance lightning is close enough to possibly strike you. It is important that if you hear this thunder, you get to shelter.

Once inside, it is important to stay off of corded electrical devices that are plugged into the wall. It is also important to avoid plumbing and things that are interconnected via metal such as baths and faucets. It is also a good idea to not be on concrete surfaces.

From your friends at SERVPRO of North Highlands and Rio Linda, stay safe Sacramento. When a storm hits, be sure to check for leaks and water damage. SERVPRO of North Highlands and Rio Linda is always here to help, with 24/7 support please call (916) 991-1522.

Sacramento Basement Water Damage, Flooding and the Struggle Against Time

10/6/2017 (Permalink)

Don't leave your basement out of site and out of mind. When a storm hits Sacramento this winter, be sure to take care of water damage immediately.

Your basement may seem unimportant compared to the rest of your house, it is as important to keep dry as the rest of your home

Homeowners often find themselves with excess in their basement, from general seepage, if their sump pump has stopped working, or if there is standing water due to another issue. When there is no risk of the water falling to a lower floor, damaging their floors or walls, and is only sitting on cement they often feel as if the problem should not be immediately handled. The unfortunate reality is that homes, are contained structures, and it is inadvisable to have an excess of water sitting for any period of time as it can create one of a few problems.

Even though the water in the basement may not be immediately touching surfaces that traditionally will grow mold as a food source such as wood or cardboard, it will still grow mold as a result of the water. Standing water in the basement will cause moisture to enter the air, which will spread throughout the house and cause secondary mold damage elsewhere. As well, if the water is touching any wood the capillary effect will cause water to be wicked upwards, possibly causing water damage above the basement.

Full mitigation of this issue requires treatment as if it were any other part of your house. After calling SERVPRO of North Highlands and Rio Linda, our first step would be to remove the water immediately, and then begin the drying process.

If you’ve delayed taking care of a flooded basement, be sure to call us at (916) 991-1522 to prevent further damage, or secondary damage to your house. Locally owned and operated, we are trained and certified to help you with your water damage situation.

Contamination Hazards in Flood Water

9/13/2017 (Permalink)

Flood water may be a result of rain, but this need to be treated as black water.

The cause of your flood, whether it is the flood in your street, your basement, or otherwise needs to be treated as if it were contaminated water. Even if the source of the water is fresh, once it is outside of the pipe, or has fallen on the ground. We have spoken on our blog previously about the types of water contamination and how to treat them. Heavily contaminated water is referred to as black water. The important consideration surrounding black water is that it is not only unsafe to drink, but often is hazardous to be around. When it comes to flood water, here are a few things to consider why the water has become contaminated.

Visibility: With any flood water, as a result of dirt and other contaminates the water will become dark in color and cause a loss in visibility. With this loss of visibility, you are no longer able to see what lies within the water. This could very often be broken glass, sharp objects, and other hazards for tripping and falling.

Dirt: The discoloration causing the lack of visibility comes from the mixing of water with dirt and soil. When a flood occurs from heavy storms and rain, they pick up debris as soon as they meet with the ground. When water picks up this dirt, it can change the consistency of the water, making it more difficult to travel around in, and as a result a hazard if you attempt to navigate it.

Microorganisms: With the contaminates that flood waters pick up, come the organisms that exist within them. Depending on the source, and what may have come as a result of that source the quantity and type may change. Other considerations include contact with wastewater collection that may have overflowed and may be contaminated or even burst pipes.

The combination of these reasons make flood waters dangerous, and you should avoid contact with these situations at all cost. If you have flood damage, contact professionals who have the proper equipment and training to deal with the situation. Call us 24/7 at (916) 991-1522 for professional help from SERVPRO of North Highlands and Rio Linda when your next disaster occurs.

We're Ready for Your Sacramento Flood or Storm Damage

8/18/2017 (Permalink)

Storms and floods are never convenient, that's why we're available 24/7 to help.

SERVPRO of North Highlands / Rio Linda specializes in storm and flood damage restoration. Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your damaged property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

The Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Sacramento we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams http://www.SERVPROnorthhighlandsriolinda.com/storm-flooding-restoration that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Do You Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 916-991-1522

Be Prepared for Sacramento’s Next Power Outage

7/17/2017 (Permalink)

You may not need a full "bug out bag", but there are some essential items to think about.

After any sort of storm, power outage, or other unforeseen emergency: you may need to be prepared for road closures for up to 72 hours. Depending on the nature of closures, whether it be a large flooding or water event or power outage here is what you should have to be prepared for you, your family, friends, and neighbors.

Flashlights (One for each family member ideally)
Battery-operated clock and radio
Extra batteries for everything
Non-perishable food, this could come in the form of canned, dried, dehydrated, or other foods
A way to open and prepare all of these foods without electricity
Plenty of bottled water, (many gallons), gallon water jugs are cheap and store well, so there is no reason not to keep a few around
Keep a list of important phone numbers, and if relevant addresses and a map incase you lose access to the internet
First aid kit, more than just a few bandages.

These are just the essentials, for more information and tips feel free to visit http://www.ready.gov/winter-weather. It may be summer now, but a power outage could happen at any time, and there's no better time to prepare for this fall and winter rainy season than now.

Should weather strike, and you need help, call SERVPRO of North Highlands and Rio Linda at (916) 991-1522, or visit our website for more information about our storm damage, water damage, fire damage, mold damage, commercial cleaning, or other services. We are locally owned and operated, and here to help you 24/7 with your disaster.

What Not to Do after a Flood or Water Loss

6/21/2017 (Permalink)

In the time directly after a flood or water loss, minutes matter. Preventative measures can help negate further damage to your Sacramento property.

Do not touch or make contact if the water is sewage or otherwise contaminated
Do not spread contaminated water by walking from affected areas to unaffected areas
Do not use household fans to attempt to dry wet areas, if the water is contaminated this is especially important as uninformed drying techniques can spread contaminates throughout the house
Do not enter rooms with standing water where an electrical hazard may exist
Do not enter affected areas if any electrical outlet is exposed to water, this can include electrical equipment, circuit breakers, and switches
Do not leave newspapers, magazines, and books that are damp on carpets which will cause staining
Do not leave colored rugs on top of other carpeting, as this can cause staining
Do not use your normal vacuum cleaner to remove water, this will break your vacuum and it can cause electrical shock
Do not use electrical appliances while wet
Do not turn on any sort of embedded electrical appliance such as ceiling fixtures if there has been water damage in the ceiling

What Kind of Storm Damage Might Your Property Face?

6/21/2017 (Permalink)

When this winter hits, here are the most common types of damage you may face from storms.

Water Damage and Flooding:
Most common and destructive is flooding. Floods can occur from heavy rainfall in a few different ways. For homes with basements, water can rise above and overflow your sump pumps. For one story houses, flooding may occur on the bottom story. In either case, a minor flood sends contaminated water through your house causing damage.

High Wind Conditions:
During a strong rain or thunderstorm, high wind conditions can affect the outside of your Sacramento home or property. This damage can come in the form of downed trees, damaging roofs, breaking windows and their frames or shutters. This vulnerabilities unsolved will only get worse over time and give rise to further damage from storm conditions.

If and when a storm causes damage to help, contact SERVPRO of North Highlands and Rio Linda by visiting our website or calling us at (916) 991-1522

When Water Damage Strikes, It's time to Act

6/20/2017 (Permalink)

Storm damage can happen at any time, that is why SERVPRO of North Highlands and Rio Linda are there 24 hours, 7 days a week to be your emergency service specialists. When it comes to water damage with a storm, it is important to act fast. That is why SERVPRO technicians are available to help you make your emergency “Like it never even happened.” Here is a timeline of water damage, so you can know when to act.

Within Minutes

Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path
Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings
Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets
Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp

Hours 1-24:

Drywall begins to swell and break down
Metal surfaces begin to tarnish
Furniture begins to swell and crack
Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain
A musty odor appears

48 Hours to 1 Week:

Mold and mildew may grow and spread
Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp
Metal begins to rust and corrode
Furniture warps and shows signs of mold
Paint begins to blister
Wood flooring swells and warps
Serious biohazard contamination is possible

More Than 1 Week:

Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.

SERVPRO of Rio Linda and North Highlands is here when you need help. Visit our website or call us at (916) 991-1522 24/7.

If you have a fire or water emergency, please call us now at (916) 991-1522

Archived Storm Damage Blog Posts

Bedroom Doors Sticking?

Do You Have Damage to Your Property Caused by Storm

Has Your Business or Home Been Effected by a Storm/Disaster?

Are Your Gutters Storm Ready?

We Restore Damage After a Windstorm

What You do Could Effect the Drying Process of Your Property

What You do Could Effect the Drying Process of Your Property

Don’t Let Lightening Strike You

How Our Storm Restoration Services Help You

Hot August Nights

Have You Been Affected by a Wildfire, We Can Help!

Returning Home After a Wildfire

Have Your Home Ignition Zone Prepared for Fire Season

Are April Showers Causing Your Windows to Leak?

Under Your Property is as Important to keep dry as the Rest of it!

The Most Common Types of Damage You May Face From Storms

Sump Pump Failure

Safety During a Thunderstorm

What is a Workplace Emergency?

Has the Weather caused Water Damage to your Home of Business?

January and February are Flood Season!

Do You Have an Emergency Ready Kit?

When Wind and Rain Comes, We are Here for You!

When is Flood Season?

The Dangers of Standing Flood Water From A Storm

When Storms or Floods Hit, SERVPRO is here!

Faster Response

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

Falling Trees Don't Have the Best Aim!

HOW STORM RESTORATION SERVICES HELP YOUR HOME

Any Type of Disaster, Any Time SERVPRO is There For You!

How to Prepare for Hurricane Season

How Can I Protect My Home From Flood Damage?

What is STORM?

Time to Clean out your Storm Drains!

How will you be safe and prepared this flood season?

Do you have an Emergency Ready Kit?

What Does RED FLAG WARNINGS & FIRE WEATHER WATCHES mean?

After the Storm!

Storms In Sacramento!

When Disaster Affects You, SERVPRO of North Highlands / Rio Linda is ready!

What is a Storm?

As time has gone on the way SERVPRO defines a storm has evolved.

Importance of Carbon Monoxide Alarms.

Preparing for Bad Weather

Sacramento Flood Damage - Facts about Flood Damage in Sacramento

Sacramento’s Storms This Winter: Sump Pumps & Flood Prevention

Stay Dry, Sacramento!

Lightning Safety for the Next Sacramento Storm

Sacramento Basement Water Damage, Flooding and the Struggle Against Time

Your basement may seem unimportant compared to the rest of your house, it is as important to keep dry as the rest of your home

Contamination Hazards in Flood Water

Flood water may be a result of rain, but this need to be treated as black water.

We're Ready for Your Sacramento Flood or Storm Damage

Be Prepared for Sacramento’s Next Power Outage

What Not to Do after a Flood or Water Loss

In the time directly after a flood or water loss, minutes matter. Preventative measures can help negate further damage to your Sacramento property.

What Kind of Storm Damage Might Your Property Face?

When this winter hits, here are the most common types of damage you may face from storms.

When Water Damage Strikes, It's time to Act

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Archived Posts