Recent Storm Damage Posts

Unpredictable Ohio Weather

1/20/2022 (Permalink)

If you encounter any of these problems call SERVPRO® of Licking County at 740-587-0938.

Ohio weather can often have more twists and turns than a new roller coaster at Kings Island or Cedar Point.  It is freezing in the morning and warm in the afternoon or vice versa.  It’s snowing, but that wasn’t in the forecast. This actually happens here. It is not uncommon for the temperature to change more than 30 degrees in a single 24-hour period.  

Recently, we have been experiencing mostly mild winter temperatures in our region. However, we have just begun a cold snap that is predicted to last several days. 

Extreme weather changes can wreak havoc on your home causing water damage, mold damage and even fire damage. 

Here are a few tips that can help you prepare in case of a weather emergency. 

Prepare Now 

  • Emergency Kit (with supplies to last at least three days) 
  • Prescription Medications 
  • Battery operated devices and charging options 
  • Inspect home systems to ensure proper function (HVAC, plumbing, electrical, etc.) 
  • Maintain and inspect all supplemental heating devices (portable heaters, chimneys, etc.) 

A comprehensive list of items to include in your emergency kit is available at www.ready.gov along with more information to help you stay ahead of the storm.

Your local team of SERVPRO® professionals would like to take a moment and remind everyone to stay safe and healthy!  

When Storms or Floods hit - SERVPRO of Licking County is ready!

12/23/2021 (Permalink)

Our highly trained crews are ready to respond 24/7 to storm or flood damage in your Licking County home.

SERVPRO of Licking County specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition. 

SERVPRO technicians can use both portable centrifugal pumps and submersible units. This wide range of equipment ensures there is never any delay in the cleanup no matter how deep it gets. 

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 limits the damage, lessens 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 can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States. 

SERVPRO is equipped with the skills and experience to tackle any size flood damage and make it look "Like it never even happened." 

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 740-587-0938 

Avoiding Power Outage Perils

12/2/2021 (Permalink)

Candle and Laptop

Losing power can be annoying anytime, but especially when it’s cold and stormy outside.  When the power goes out, many things flood into your mind. Where did I put that flashlight? Do I have any batteries? Do I still have internet?  While all of these things are important, there are also serious concerns that you should consider to protect your home.  When the power goes out, several critical systems in your home are going to be offline.  Here are some things to consider: 

Sump Pumps: these pumps are located in the basement to prevent water from entering from the ground.  Without power the pump will not operate and water could enter from the sump pump pit. 

Furnaces and Heating units: even gas-powered furnaces and heating units need electricity to run the blowers/fans that push the air through ducts around the home.  Without heat, the pipes are susceptible to freezing and bursting. If the temperature outside is below freezing consider turning the faucets on just a little bit to keep water moving in the pipes.  This not only introduces warmer water from underground pipes but the movement of the water helps prevent freezing. 

Freezers:  If you haven’t thawed your freezer in a while, you may have significant ice buildup that will begin to melt and cause water to puddle at the freezer door.  You are better off putting a baking tray under the door rather than opening the door and trying to manually remove the ice.  Opening the door will cause the cold air to escape and will lead to more rapid thawing/spoiling of food if power is not restored quickly. 

Ideally, having a back-up generator is your best option for restoring power quickly, but these can be costly, especially built-in units.  If you do have a generator (portable or built-in) make sure it is wired and ready to provide power to the critical systems above. 

If you do experience storm damage, call the experts at SERVPRO! 

How to Prepare for Winter Storms

10/22/2021 (Permalink)

Example satellite image of a storm system.

As Licking County residents, or Ohio residents in general, we are all very aware of the nasty storms that can blow in during the colder winter months. At the present you have the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful fall days, possibly with friends and family, drinking apple cider and carving pumpkins. Another opportunity that this mild weather brings is to give your home or office a good thorough once over to ensure it is winter storm ready.

SERVPRO of Licking County has compiled a short and sweet generalized list of items to bring attention to or add to your winterizing check list:

  1. Insulate any water lines that may run along exterior walls to prevent freezing.
  2. Re-caulk or replace weather-stripping around doors and windows (keep heat in and storm moisture out).
  3. Insulate your attic or check the insulation for worn out spots.
  4. Check your roof for any worn or weak spots and holes. Repair if necessary.
  5. Assess the condition of your landscaping (trees, shrubs, etc…) and cut away any branches that may be weak and could pose a danger should a storm bring a strong breeze.

Mother Nature does tend to remind us that she abides by her own rules, which is when we at SERVPRO of Licking County comes into play. Our specially trained storm damage heroes arrive to any size disaster with our advanced equipment and techniques to render aide, fast. During the height of storm season we also have resources to call upon from our 1,700 franchises nationwide to put the pieces from your disaster back together. We understand how a natural disaster hitting your home or business can cause stress levels to elevate, which is why SERVPRO of Licking County are the trusted specialists called upon to remediate. 

Call SERVPRO of Licking County today at (740) 587-0938 if you experience storm damage or residual damage post storm like water, fire and/or mold. We’ll be there to make any disaster look "Like it never even happened."

Generator Safety in Winter Storms

1/20/2021 (Permalink)

Often winter storms can cause power outages for extended periods of time. When this happens, many people use a generator to keep their loved ones safe and warm. It is important to take the proper safety precautions when using a generator. Please consider following these safety tips from the American Red Cross: 

  • To avoid electrocution, keep the generator dry and do not use in rain or wet conditions. Operate it on a dry surface under an open canopy-like structure, such as under a tarp held up on poles. Do not touch the generator with wet hands.
  • Be sure to turn the generator off and let it cool down before refueling. Gasoline spilled on hot engine parts could ignite.
  • Store fuel for the generator in an approved safety can. Use the type of fuel recommended in the instructions or on the label on the generator.
  • Plug appliances directly into the generator, or use a heavy duty, outdoor-rated extension cord that is rated (in watts or amps) at least equal to the sum of the connected appliance loads.
  • Never try to power the house wiring by plugging the generator into a wall outlet. Known as “backfeeding,” this practice puts utility workers, your neighbors and your household at risk of electrocution.
  • Remember, even a properly connected portable generator can become overloaded, resulting in overheating or generator failure. Be sure to read the instructions.
  • If necessary, stagger the operating times for various equipment to prevent overloads.
  • Never use a generator, grill, camp stove or other gasoline, propane, natural gas or charcoal-burning devices inside a home, garage, basement, crawlspace or any partially enclosed area.
  • Keep these devices outdoors, away from doors, windows and vents that could allow carbon monoxide to come indoors.

If winter storm damage has impacted your home or business, please call SERVPRO of Licking County at 740-587-0938. Let our professional team do the cleanup with the proper procedures to keep you, your home or company safe.

Source: https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/power-outage/safe-generator-use.html

Winter Weather Alerts

12/28/2020 (Permalink)

Know the Difference 

When winter weather is approaching it is important to familiarize yourself with the different types of winter weather alerts. By understanding the differences you can better prepare yourself and your family in order to stay safe. These are the different meanings of winter weather alerts according to the National Weather Service:

  • Winter Storm Watch: Conditions favorable for a winter storm event, which is a threat to life or property. 
  • Blizzard Watch: Conditions favorable for a blizzard event. (Low visibility <¼ mi with winds at least 35 mph)
  • Winter Weather Advisory: Issued for one or more of the following: 
    • Snow of 3-5” in 12 hrs
    • Sleet <½”
    • Freezing rain with sleet/snow
    • Blowing snow
  • Freezing Rain Advisory: Ice accumulation <¼”
  • Winter Storm Warning: Heavy snow of 6” in 12 hrs or 8” in 24 hrs, or sleet of ½” or more. 
  • Ice Storm Warning: Ice accumulation ¼” or more. 
  • Blizzard Warning: Blizzard conditions for at least 3 hours. 

If winter storm damage has impacted your home or business, please call SERVPRO of Licking County at 740-587-0938. Let our professional team do the cleanup with the proper procedures to keep you, your home or company safe.



Source: https://www.weather.gov/ilx/wwa_social

Severe Storm Emergency Supply Kits

11/30/2020 (Permalink)

In the event of a severe storm it is best to be prepared. When severe weather strikes a number of things can occur. For example the power can go out, roadways can be closed, stores could be inaccessible, plus many other possibilities. An emergency supply kit will help ensure that you and your loved ones have the supplies you need. These are recommended supplies to include in an emergency supply kit according to the National Weather Service: 

  • Backpack or storage tub to hold your supplies
  • Bottled Water - 1 gallon per person is recommended
  • Non-Perishable food - If including canned foods, you must include a can opener
  • Flashlight with extra batteries
  • First Aid Supplies (Bandages, Ointment, Disinfectant wipes)
  • Tissues
  • Toilet paper and bags with ties for personal sanitation
  • Paper and pen or pencil (to take notes, play games, etc)
  • Sleeping bag or warm blanket (recommend one for each person in your home)
  • Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
  • Personal hygiene items (travel size deodorant, cotton swabs, feminine items, etc)
  • Whistle to Signal for help
  • Important documents (identification, insurance information, banking information, wills, etc)
  • Emergency reference materials such as a first aid book
  • Battery powered radio and a NOAA Weather radio
  • Formula and diapers (if there is an infant in the house)
  • Extra pet food (if there are pets in the house)
  • Dust mask or cotton t-shirt, to help filter the air
  • Plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place
  • Can opener for food (if kit contains canned food)
  • Cups and utensils
  • A change of clothes for each person in your home (if you live in a cooler climate make sure the clothes are warm!) - Also include a jacket, hat, gloves and closed toe shoes for walking (boots or sturdy sneakers are best)
  • Rain gear
  • Cash
  • Paper towels
  • Fire Extinguisher
  • Cards or game (it is important to have something to do to take your mind off the situation for a few moments or alleviate stress if you will be in your shelter for an extended time)

If storm damage has impacted your home or business, please call SERVPRO of Licking County at 740-587-0938. Let our professional team do the cleanup with the proper procedures to keep you, your home or company safe.

Source: https://www.weather.gov/owlie/emergencysupplieskit

Winter Weather Preparations

11/11/2020 (Permalink)

Fall is a good time to consider preparing your property for winter weather and storms. Even though you can’t control the weather, with some planning you can minimize a few of the threats to your home or business. 

  • Make sure your gutters are clear of leaves and debris.
  • Keep the attic well ventilated so snow doesn't melt and refreeze on the roof's edge.
  • Check on all vacant units. Simply turning off the water is not sufficient for a property that is to be left unoccupied for a long period - a lot of water is still in the system, and can cause damage. To remove the risk completely, have a plumber drain down the water or be sure the heat is on and set to at least 55 degrees.
  • If you go on vacation, leave the heat on, and set to at least 55 degrees.
  • Locate your water main in the event you need to shut it off in an emergency.
  • Drain all garden hoses.
  • Insulate exposed plumbing pipes. Pipes in attics, exterior walls and crawl spaces are most vulnerable to extreme cold.
  • Check flashing to ensure water cannot enter the property.
  • Replace worn roof shingles or tiles.
  • Consider installing leaf guards on the gutters or extensions on the downspouts to direct water away from the property.
  • Inspect exterior for crevice cracks and exposed entry points around pipes; seal them.

If winter storm damage has impacted your home or business, please call SERVPRO of Licking County at 740-587-0938. Let our professional team do the cleanup with the proper procedures to keep you, your home or company safe.

When Storms or Floods hit Licking County, SERVPRO is ready!

9/8/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Licking County specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained and 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 Licking County, 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 that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 740-587-0938

National Preparedness Month

9/1/2020 (Permalink)

September is National Preparedness Month and we've learned a lot from our disaster recovery work over the years. Learn how you can plan for when disaster strikes by reading the following residential and commercial tips. 

Residential: 

  • In case of power loss during a storm, turn your refrigerator and freezer to their coldest setting. Don’t eat food that has warmed past 40° F. 
  • Install storm shutters ahead of time to protect vulnerable windows. If a storm is approaching, temporary plywood shutters will work in a pinch. 
  • Take shelter in an inferior, lower-level room away from windows, doors and skylights during a severe storm. 
  • If you lose power, unplug electrical appliances to prevent potential damage from a power surge once electricity is restored. 
  • Bring valuable items upstairs to protect from flood damage. 
  • If you hear thunder, hold off on showering until the storm passes. Lightning can travel through metal pipes and shock on contact. 

Commercial:

  • Turn off all utilities at the main switches or valves when instructed to do so. (Gas and electric shut off) Board up windows prior to forecasted high wind storm events, such as hurricanes. 
  • Disconnect all electrical equipment and appliances. Raise elevators (if applicable) from the bottom floor. 
  • Ensure your server is protected and backed up in another location. 
  • Employee safety should always be your first priority. Account for all employees by establishing evacuation plans in advance, identifying areas outside the building that are designated meeting places. 
  • Contact your local SERVPRO Franchise to set up an Emergency Response Profile (ERP), which outlines every step of your emergency plan in any situation.

If storm damage has impacted your home or business, please call SERVPRO of Licking County at 740-587-0938. Let our professional team do the cleanup with the proper procedures to keep you, your home or company safe.

Flood Watch Vs Warning

6/20/2019 (Permalink)

Know The Difference 

As many counties in the Central Ohio area are under a flash flood watch, SERVPRO of Licking County wants you to know what this means and why you should be prepared.  

What is the difference between a Flood Watch and a Flood Warning issued by the National Weather Service?

  • Flash Flood Warning: Take Action! A Flash Flood Warning is issued when a flash flood is imminent or occurring. If you are in a flood prone area move immediately to high ground. A flash flood is a sudden violent flood that can take from minutes to hours to develop. It is even possible to experience a flash flood in areas not immediately receiving rain.
  • Flood Warning: Take Action! A Flood Warning is issued when the hazardous weather event is imminent or already happening. A Flood Warning is issued when flooding is imminent or occurring.
  • Flood Watch: Be Prepared: A Flood Watch is issued when conditions are favorable for a specific hazardous weather event to occur. A Flood Watch is issued when conditions are favorable for flooding. It does not mean flooding will occur, but it is possible.
  • Flood Advisory: Be Aware: A Flood Advisory is issued when a specific weather event that is forecast to occur may become a nuisance. A Flood Advisory is issued when flooding is not expected to be bad enough to issue a warning. However, it may cause significant inconvenience, and if caution is not exercised, it could lead to situations that may threaten life and/or property.

Source: https://www.weather.gov/safety/flood-watch-warning

These terms all have different meanings and you are responsible to take action as needed to keep you and your family safe when heavy rain comes your way.

If flood damage has impacted your home or business, please call SERVPRO of Licking County at 740-587-0938. Let our professional team do the cleanup with the proper procedures to keep you, your home or company safe.

Flood Damage

5/28/2019 (Permalink)

Do Heavy Rains Have You Concerned About Flooding?

Flooding is the temporary covering or submerging of normally dry land with a large amount of water. It is the most common natural disaster in the United States.

According to Ready.Gov, 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.

A flooded home or business is a devastating event for any property owner. It has the ability to ruin many of your possessions in addition to your property itself. Taking precautions can help minimize the damage that occurs at your home or business.

First, check with your insurance to make sure that your home or business is covered. Coverage options vary depending on the insurance company so it is always a good idea to check and see what is available to you. Second, have your sump pump checked yearly and make sure your gutters are clean and attached properly. If water does get into your home or business it needs to be removed quickly and dried out properly so you don’t have mold growth in the future.  

If flood damage has impacted your home or business, please call SERVPRO of Licking County at 740-587-0938. Let our professional team do the cleanup with the proper procedures to keep you, your home or company safe.

Tornado Facts and Safety

5/27/2019 (Permalink)

Be Prepared and Aware 

Springtime weather, while beautiful, can often be unpredictable, so it is good to always be prepared for the chance of severe thunderstorms that lead to the perfect conditions for a tornado touchdown. Ohio’s peak tornado season is generally April through July, but tornadoes can and have occurred in every month of the year.

Know the signs of a tornado. Be alert to changing weather conditions. Look for the following danger signs:

    • Dark, often greenish sky
    • Large hail
    • A large, dark, low-lying cloud (particularly, if rotating)
    • Loud roar, similar to a freight train
    • If you see approaching storms or any of the danger signs, be prepared to take shelter immediately

Make sure to understand the difference between a tornado watch and a tornado warning. A watch is issued when the conditions are favorable for tornadoes, while a warning is issued when a tornado has been reported by spotters or indicated by radar. Listen to NOAA Weather Radio or to your local radio or television stations for the latest weather and safety information.

Tornadoes sometimes leave devastation for miles in the areas they touch down. While meteorologists and weather services can provide some advanced warning to potential threats, tornadoes can still occur with little to no warning at all.

Source:https://www.weathersafety.ohio.gov/tornadofacts.aspx

If a tornado has impacted your home or business, please call SERVPRO of Licking County at 740-587-0938. Let our professional team do the cleanup with the proper procedures to keep you, your home or company safe.

Emergency Action Plan

5/20/2019 (Permalink)

Make A Plan

We here at SERVPRO of Licking County know that emergencies happen everyday; we have supported countless home and business owners with water, fire and storm property damage. We understand that your lives are busy and it can be overwhelming to add being prepared in case of an emergency to your to-do list. However, we also know that being prepared can make a huge difference when faced with a disaster and can get your life back to normal more quickly afterwards.

Start making an emergency plan with your family, friends and household by discussing the types of disasters that could strike and what to do at different times of the day. Discuss how to prepare and respond to emergencies that are most likely to happen where you live, learn, work, and play. Keep your emergency plan as simple as possible and use places that are very familiar and hard to forget. Identify responsibilities for each member of your household and plan to work together as a team.

Fill out a Family Emergency Plan and make sure each member has a copy on them at all times.

12 Ways to Prepare According to FEMA:

  1. Sign up for alerts and warnings
  2. Make a plan
  3. Save for a rainy day
  4. Practice emergency drills
  5. Test family communication Plan
  6. Safeguard documents
  7. Plan with neighbors
  8. Make your home safer
  9. Know evacuation routes
  10. Assemble or update supplies
  11. Get involved in your community
  12. Document and insure property

If storm damage has impacted your home or business, please call SERVPRO of Licking County at 740-587-0938. Let our professional team do the cleanup with the proper procedures to keep you, your home or company safe.

Flood Watch Vs Flood Warning

5/8/2019 (Permalink)

Know the Difference

Do you know the difference between a flood watch and a flood warning? These are the different meanings of a flood watch and warning according to the National Weather Service:

  • Flash Flood Warning: Take Action! A Flash Flood Warning is issued when a flash flood is imminent or occurring. If you are in a flood prone area move immediately to high ground. A flash flood is a sudden violent flood that can take from minutes to hours to develop. It is even possible to experience a flash flood in areas not immediately receiving rain.
  • Flood Warning: Take Action! A Flood Warning is issued when the hazardous weather event is imminent or already happening. A Flood Warning is issued when flooding is imminent or occurring.
  • Flood Watch: Be Prepared:A Flood Watch is issued when conditions are favorable for a specific hazardous weather event to occur. A Flood Watch is issued when conditions are favorable for flooding. It does not mean flooding will occur, but it is possible.
  • Flood Advisory: Be Aware: An Flood Advisory is issued when a specific weather event that is forecast to occur may become a nuisance. A Flood Advisory is issued when flooding is not expected to be bad enough to issue a warning. However, it may cause significant inconvenience, and if caution is not exercised, it could lead to situations that may threaten life and/or property.

If water damage has impacted your home or business, please call SERVPRO of Licking County at 740-587-0938. Let our professional team do the cleanup with the proper procedures to keep you, your home or company safe.

Source: https://www.weather.gov/safety/flood-watch-warning

Storm Damage Do's and Don'ts!

3/15/2016 (Permalink)

Do's and Don'ts to help minimize storm damage: 

Do:

-Ensure local authorities have given the "all clear" for your area. 

-Ensure your electricity is turned off before entering a flooded structure. 

-Remove as much excess water as possible with wet-dry vacuums, mops, and towels.

- Remove and prop wet upholstery and pillow cushions for drying.

Don't: 

-Use your household vacuum to remove water. 

-Leave wet fabrics in place; dry as soon as possible. 

-Leave books, magazines or other colored items on wet carpet or floors. 

-Use television or other household appliances while standing on wet floors or carpets.