What Should I Do If I Smell Natural Gas?

8/19/2023 (Permalink)

Natural gas is a widely used source of energy that is efficient and cost-effective, but it can also be dangerous if not handled properly. Natural gas is odorless, but gas companies add a sulfur-like odor called mercaptan to help detect leaks easily. If you ever smell natural gas in your home, it is essential to act quickly and take necessary safety precautions to protect yourself and your loved ones. In this blog post, we will share valuable tips on what to do if you smell natural gas.

Step 1: Leave the Area Immediately

If you smell natural gas, the first thing you should do is leave the area immediately. If you're inside your home or building, evacuate everyone to a safe location outside. Don't turn on any electrical switches, light matches, or use any devices that might ignite the gas and cause an explosion.

Once you are a safe distance away from the gas smell, call your gas company right away. They have the necessary equipment and expertise to address gas leaks and will send a technician as soon as possible. In addition to the gas company, it is also advisable to call the fire department as a precaution.

Step 2: Do Not Return Inside Until Cleared

Under no circumstances, should you or anyone else return to your home or building until you have been informed by a qualified gas technician that it is safe. Gas leaks can quickly escalate, so it's essential to wait until the source is located and properly secured.

Additional Safety Tips:

• Avoid smoking, using electronic devices, or any other potential spark sources while you smell natural gas.
• Don't open windows or use fans to ventilate the area. This may cause the gas to spread to a larger area.
• Don't start your car or other motorized vehicles that could ignite the gas.
• Don't turn on or off any light switches or use any electrical devices that could cause a spark.
• Don't use your phone, as it could also create a spark. Instead, use a phone located outside the affected area.

Prevention Tips

Regularly check and maintain gas appliances and equipment to prevent leaks. Never attempt to repair gas appliances or pipes by yourself. Always consult with a licensed professional.

• Install carbon monoxide detectors in your home to alert you to any dangerous gas leaks.
• Keep flammable items away from gas appliances to avoid accidental ignition.
• Educate everyone in your household or building about the importance of gas safety and what to do in case of a natural gas leak.

Natural gas is a valuable resource, but it's vital to take proper safety precautions to avoid accidents and protect everyone's safety. If you ever smell natural gas in your home or business, remember to leave the area immediately, call for help, and do not return until it has been cleared as safe. By taking preventative measures and being proactive about gas safety, you can help prevent natural gas incidents from occurring and ensure the safety of everyone in your home or business.

Content Cleaning After Water Damage: Essential Tips for Your Belongings

7/27/2023 (Permalink)

Water damage can wreak havoc on your property, including your valuable possessions and sentimental items. Salvaging and restoring these belongings requires proper content cleaning techniques and care. In this blog post, we will provide essential tips for content cleaning after water damage to help you preserve and restore your items effectively.

Safety First

Before handling any water-damaged items, ensure your safety. Wear protective gloves, goggles, and a mask to prevent exposure to potentially contaminated water or harmful substances. If the water damage is extensive or involves hazardous materials, consider seeking professional assistance for content cleaning.

Sort through your belongings and separate the wet items from those that remain dry. This will prevent further moisture transfer and minimize the risk of mold growth. Move the wet items to a dry area or a room with good airflow to begin the drying process.

Document the Damage

Before starting the content cleaning process, document the damage by taking photos or videos of the affected items. This documentation will be valuable for insurance claims and can help assess the restoration progress.

Clean and Disinfect

Depending on the type and extent of the water damage, different cleaning methods may be required:

• Non-Porous Items: Non-porous items like glass, metal, and plastic can generally be cleaned and disinfected. Use a mild detergent and warm water to gently clean the surface. Rinse thoroughly and allow the items to air dry.
• Porous Items: Porous materials like fabric, upholstery, and wood can be more challenging to clean. It is advisable to consult professional content cleaners who specialize in restoring water-damaged items. They have the expertise and equipment to properly clean and treat these materials, increasing the chances of successful restoration.

Handle Delicate Items with Care

Delicate or fragile items, such as artwork, photographs, and electronics, require special attention during content cleaning:

• Artwork and Photographs: Handle these items with care to avoid further damage. Remove any frames or glass coverings and lay them flat to dry. If they are stuck together, do not force them apart. Contact a professional art restorer or conservator for guidance on proper restoration techniques.
• Electronics: Water damage can be particularly harmful to electronic devices. Power off the devices immediately and avoid turning them on until they have been professionally assessed. Do not attempt to dry or clean them yourself, as improper handling can cause irreparable damage.

Mold Prevention

To prevent mold growth on your belongings, ensure they are thoroughly dried before storing them. Increase airflow in the drying area by using fans or dehumidifiers. If you notice signs of mold growth, such as musty odors or discoloration, consult a professional mold remediation specialist.

Seek Professional Content Cleaning

For valuable, sentimental, or highly damaged items, it is recommended to consult professional content cleaning services. These specialists have the expertise, equipment, and techniques to effectively clean and restore a wide range of items. They can assess the damage, provide appropriate cleaning methods, and increase the chances of successful restoration.

Consult Your Insurance Company

Notify your insurance company about the water damage incident and inquire about coverage for content cleaning and restoration. They can provide guidance on the claims process and may recommend trusted content-cleaning professionals, such as SERVPRO of San Ramon, to assist you.

Content cleaning after water damage requires careful handling, proper cleaning techniques, and sometimes professional assistance. By following these essential tips, you can increase your chances of salvaging and restoring your valuable belongings. Remember to prioritize safety, document the damage, separate wet items, clean and disinfect appropriately, and consult professionals when needed. With proper care and restoration efforts, you can preserve your cherished items and minimize the impact of water damage on your personal belongings.

Beyond Rain Flooding: Understanding the Varied Effects of Storm Damage

6/21/2023 (Permalink)

When we think of storm damage, images of rainwater flooding homes and streets often come to mind. While flooding is undoubtedly a significant concern during storms, it's important to recognize that storm damage encompasses a wide range of effects beyond just water-related issues. From high winds to hailstorms and even lightning strikes, storms can wreak havoc on properties in various ways. In this blog post, we will explore the diverse effects of storm damage beyond rain flooding and shed light on the importance of being prepared for the unexpected.

Wind Damage

High winds associated with storms can cause severe damage to structures. Strong gusts can tear off roofs, damage siding, and topple trees, leading to fallen branches and potential structural collapses. It's essential to secure loose objects, trim tree branches, and ensure the structural integrity of your property to minimize the risk of wind damage during storms.

Hail Damage

Hailstorms pose a unique threat to buildings and vehicles. Hailstones can range in size from small pellets to large chunks, causing dents, cracks, and breakage on roofs, windows, and exterior surfaces. Inspecting your property for hail damage after a storm is crucial for initiating insurance claims and arranging timely repairs.

Lightning Strikes

Lightning strikes during storms can cause significant damage to properties. Electrical surges can damage appliances, electronics, and electrical systems. Additionally, lightning strikes can ignite fires, leading to extensive property damage. Installing surge protectors, lightning rods, and maintaining a functional grounding system can help protect your property from lightning-related damage.

Power Outages and Electrical Damage

Storms often result in power outages due to downed power lines or electrical system failures. Power surges and fluctuations can also occur during storms, potentially damaging sensitive electronic devices and appliances. Investing in backup power sources, such as generators, and using surge protectors can mitigate the risk of electrical damage and ensure continuity during power outages.

Structural Damage from Fallen Trees

During severe storms, trees can become uprooted or have limbs break off and fall onto buildings. This can cause extensive structural damage and pose a risk to occupants. Regular tree maintenance, including pruning and removal of weakened or dead trees, can minimize the likelihood of tree-related damage during storms.

Roof and Siding Damage

While rain flooding can damage roofs and siding, other storm elements can contribute to their deterioration as well. High winds can loosen or remove shingles, and hailstones can cause
punctures, cracks, or granule loss on the roof surface. Siding can also suffer from wind-driven debris impact, resulting in dents, chipped paint, or even complete detachment in severe cases. Regularly inspecting and maintaining the roof and siding, and promptly addressing any damage, can help protect your property from further deterioration.

Basement or Crawl Space Flooding

Although we mentioned that storm damage extends beyond rain flooding, it's important to note that water intrusion into basements or crawl spaces can still occur. Heavy rainfall, combined with inadequate drainage systems or foundation issues, can result in basement or crawl space flooding. Ensuring proper grading, installing sump pumps, and maintaining a functioning waterproofing system can help mitigate the risk of water damage in these areas.

Damage to Landscaping and Outdoor Structures

Storms can cause harm to your property's landscaping and outdoor structures. High winds can uproot trees, damage fences, and topple outdoor furniture or structures like pergolas and sheds. Regularly inspecting and maintaining outdoor elements can help identify and address potential risks before storms occur.

While rain flooding is a significant concern during storms, it's important to recognize that storm damage encompasses a much broader spectrum of effects. From wind damage and hailstorms to lightning strikes and power outages, storms can pose various risks to properties. Being prepared and taking proactive measures to secure your property, such as regular inspections, maintenance, and investing in protective measures, can help minimize the impact of storm damage. Remember that understanding the diverse effects of storm damage allows you to take appropriate actions to protect your property and ensure the safety and well-being of its occupants.

5 Essential Personal Protective Equipment for Safe Mold Remediation

5/19/2023 (Permalink)

Mold is a common problem in many homes and buildings, and mold remediation is the process of removing mold and preventing it from spreading further. While mold remediation is an important process, it can also be dangerous if proper personal protective equipment (PPE) is not used. In this blog, we will discuss the PPE that is commonly used in mold remediation.

Respirator

The first and most important piece of PPE that is necessary for mold remediation is a respirator. A respirator will protect the worker's lungs by filtering out the spores from the air. There are several types of respirators available, but for mold remediation, an N95 respirator is recommended.

Gloves

Gloves are also an essential piece of PPE for mold remediation. Gloves will protect the worker's hands from coming into contact with mold and any chemicals that are used during the process. Nitrile gloves are a good choice for mold remediation because they are durable and resistant to chemicals.

Eye Protection

Mold spores can also cause eye irritation and other issues. Eye protection, such as goggles or a face shield, will protect the worker's eyes from coming into contact with mold spores, dust, and debris.

Protective Clothing

In addition to gloves, workers should wear protective clothing during mold remediation. This can include coveralls or a full-body suit to prevent mold from coming into contact with skin or clothing. The clothing should be disposable or washable to prevent the spread of mold spores.

Footwear

Lastly, workers should wear footwear that is waterproof and slip-resistant to prevent slips and falls on wet surfaces. Shoes should also be easily washable or disposable to prevent the spread of mold spores.

In conclusion, mold remediation is an important process that requires proper PPE to protect workers from the dangers of mold spores. A respirator, gloves, eye protection, protective clothing, and footwear are all essential pieces of PPE that should be worn during mold remediation to ensure worker safety. By taking these precautions, workers can safely remove mold and prevent further spread.

Protecting Your Business: How to Prepare for a Fire Emergency

4/17/2023 (Permalink)

A fire is a rapid oxidation reaction that releases heat and light. It can be caused by many things, including electrical wiring or equipment, combustible materials like paper and wood, or even human error.

Fire is one of the most common disasters in the world today. In fact, it's responsible for more deaths each year than any other natural disaster--and it's not just homes that are at risk; businesses need to prepare for fires as well as they would earthquakes or tornadoes.

If you own or manage a business that stores flammable materials like chemicals or paints (or just has lots of computers), there are extra steps you'll need to take before an incident occurs--and then again after one does occur!

Identifying Fire Hazards

Identifying potential fire hazards in the workplace Flammable materials, such as paint and solvents, are common in many workplaces. Some examples of flammable liquids include: Gasoline, Kerosene, Paint thinner, Turpentine, Wood stain (water-based only) Electrical wiring can also be a fire hazard if it's not properly maintained or installed by an electrician.

Creating a Fire Safety Plan

Outline the steps to take in the event of a fire, such as evacuating the building, notifying the fire department and shutting off power. Make sure that all employees know where to go if there is an emergency and make sure they have been trained on how to use their exit routes effectively.

Installing Fire Protection Equipment

Fire protection equipment is essential to the safety of your business. The most common types of fire protection equipment include:

Fire extinguishers, which are designed to put out small fires before they spread or become dangerous.

Fire alarms, which alert you when there's smoke or heat in an area of your building that shouldn't have either one (like a kitchen).

Sprinkler systems, which automatically spray water on a fire as soon as it starts up again after being extinguished by a sprinkler head or hose line attachment point.

Training Employees

In addition to the obvious, like installing fire extinguishers and making sure they're in working order, you should also consider training your employees on how to use them. This will help ensure that everyone knows what their role is in the event of a fire.

It's also important for employees to know how best to evacuate the building in case of emergency--and this can vary depending on where your business is located. For example, if there are multiple exits from which people can leave safely and easily (like an office building), then it may be best for everyone involved if all employees exit through one particular exit point so that they don't get stuck behind each other trying to get out through different doors or stairwells. 

Test Equipment Regularly

In addition to having a fire extinguisher on hand, it's important to regularly test the equipment in your business. For example, if you have a fire alarm system or sprinkler system in place, make sure that it works properly by periodically testing it. In addition to checking for any malfunctions in these systems and making repairs as needed, this will help ensure that they're working at full capacity when they're needed most--and can alert everyone in case of an emergency.

Developing an Emergency Response Plan

Developing an emergency response plan is the first step in preparing your business for a fire. This plan should include:

Outlining the steps to take in the event of a fire, such as evacuating the building and notifying the fire department.

A list of important items that must be saved from each room, including computers, files and other documents that may be stored electronically on hard drives or flash drives (make sure you have backup copies).

Shutting off power at breakers if possible; otherwise use shutoff valves at individual fixtures like sinks or water heaters.

Give SERVPRO a call if your business suffers from a fire loss anytime, 24/7/365. Protecting your business is an essential part of being a business owner.

Behind the Scenes: The Sewage Damage Process and What You Need to Know

3/12/2023 (Permalink)

Sewage damage can be one of the most unpleasant and hazardous types of property damage. Whether it's caused by a backed-up sewer line or a sewage spill, it’s important to understand the sewage damage process and what you need to know to protect yourself, your family, and your property. In this blog, we'll take you behind the scenes of the sewage damage process and provide you with the information you need to know.

Assessing the Damage

The first step in the sewage damage process is to assess the damage. A professional restoration company will inspect the affected areas to determine the extent of the damage and identify any potential health hazards.

Containment

The next step is to contain the sewage to prevent it from spreading further. This may involve closing off the affected areas, using plastic sheeting and barriers, and setting up negative air pressure to prevent the spread of contaminated air.

Extraction and Removal

The sewage and any contaminated materials, such as carpeting or drywall, must be removed from the affected areas. This requires specialized equipment, including pumps, wet/dry vacuums, and other tools to extract the sewage and contaminated materials.

Cleaning and Sanitizing

Once the sewage and contaminated materials have been removed, the affected areas must be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized to remove any remaining bacteria and pathogens. This involves using specialized cleaning products and equipment to disinfect the area and prevent the spread of disease.

Drying and Restoration

The final step in the sewage damage process is to dry and restore the affected areas. This may involve using dehumidifiers, fans, and other drying equipment to remove any remaining moisture and prevent mold growth. Then, the area can be repaired and restored to its preloss condition.

What You Need to Know

If you experience sewage damage, it’s important to act quickly and contact a professional restoration company. Sewage damage can pose serious health risks and should be handled by trained professionals who have the proper equipment and expertise to ensure the safety of your property and your family.

Additionally, it’s important to avoid contact with the sewage and contaminated materials, as well as the affected areas, until they have been properly cleaned and sanitized. Exposure to sewage can cause serious problems.

In conclusion, sewage damage is a serious issue that requires immediate attention from a professional restoration company. By understanding the sewage damage process and what you need to know, you can protect yourself, your family, and your property and ensure a safe and thorough restoration.

Why Is My Washing Machine Leaking?

2/13/2023 (Permalink)

If a washing machine leak goes untreated, it can lead to significant damage to your home.

If your washing machine is leaking, it's not just a matter of a few drips in your laundry room. It's leaking water, which means something is wrong with the hose or pipes. You could have a problem with the water supply hoses, drain tube, pump, or overflow tube. If the leak goes untreated, it can lead to significant damage to your home. Here are some common causes of washing machine leaks.

The Water Supply Hoses Are Faulty.

The water supply hoses are the most common cause of leaking washing machines. These hoses are connected to the washing machine and run from there to the hot and cold water supply pipes.

The hose can be connected to the wrong valve, kinked, pinched, or cracked. You should check that there are no leaks in your hoses before assuming that you need to replace them entirely. If you find that your washing machine is still leaking after inspecting these areas then it's time to replace your hoses!

The Drain Hose Is Loose or Disconnected.

The next thing to check is the drain hose. This is the pipe that connects your washing machine to the drain outlet. If it's disconnected or loose, reconnect it and tighten any clamps you can find. If this doesn't solve your problem, try replacing the drain hose as well as checking for leaks in other areas of your washer.

If the washing machine is leaking water, it's likely a hose is loose or disconnected. The water supply hoses are connected to the washing machine and they run from there to the hot and cold water supply pipes. The drain hose also runs from your washer through a clamp on your sink or drain outlet to allow drainage of excess water after each cycle has finished.

The Load Is Unbalanced.

If the washing machine is not level and there's a large amount of laundry in it, it can cause the drum to spin out of balance. This will cause leaking around the bottom of your washer as well as loud vibrations during spin cycles.

The Pump Is Faulty.

The pump is the motor that pumps water out of the machine. It's usually located on the inside wall of your washing machine and can usually be easily identified by its spinning impeller. If your pump has failed, it's not a simple DIY job to replace it; you'll likely need to call in a professional repair person.

If your washing machine is leaking water, these are some of the most common reasons why. If you notice any leaks, make sure to fix them immediately so they don't cause damage to your home! The longer moisture sits untreated, the more damage it causes to your home. If you are in need of water damage cleanup and restoration services after a washing machine leak, don't hesitate and give our SERVPRO of San Ramon team a call today!

How To Develop a Home Fire Evacuation Plan

1/23/2023 (Permalink)

Fire is one of the most dangerous threats to any home. It's important to know how to evacuate your house in case of an emergency and have a plan in place if something goes wrong. Having an evacuation plan can save lives, including those of your pets and children. Here are some tips on how to develop a plan:

Know Your Emergency Exits

Know the best way to get out of your house when a fire erupts. Know how many exits there are in each room, and how to easily get out to the hallway and the outside.

Know Your Meeting Place

The meeting place should be a safe, nearby location where everyone in your group can gather. Designate specific locations following a fire so that you can be sure to meet up with all of your family and friends. Remember this is an emergency, so if someone does get separated from the group, they should report to their designated meeting place immediately.

Build a Disaster Supply Kit

Your kit should include:

• A working flashlight with spare batteries
• Bottled water and nonperishable food
• Special medications (if needed) in a waterproof container, such as a plastic bag or metal canister. 

Teach Your Kids What to Do and Practice

Teach your kids what to get low and go. Teach kids to drop to the floor, cover their heads with their hands and crawl toward the nearest exit. Practice this in a safe environment, such as at home when there's no danger of fire or in an empty classroom if you can get permission from your school.

Have you practiced the plan with your family? If not, it's time that you do. Make sure everyone knows what to do in an emergency and practice using your family's home fire evacuation plan at least once a year. If some members of your family have special needs or access issues, consider practicing with them as well so that they can get out safely in case of a fire.

As with the rest of your family, you should include pets in your evacuation plan.

Special Considerations

If you have family members with disabilities, it’s important to consider their needs during an evacuation. People with mobility issues may need assistance getting out of the home, while those who require medical attention will need to make arrangements for their care.

Once everyone is safely outside, make sure that disabled people are not separated from their caregivers or friends. If possible, stay together as a group until everyone has been accounted for by firefighters or another emergency response team

There are steps you can take to ensure that you and others on your property stay safe from fire and other emergencies. By having a fire evacuation plan, you will be prepared for an emergency situation and know what to do if one occurs. If you experience a house fire, give SERVPRO of San Ramon a call! We will get your san Ramon home back to normal as quickly as possible.

Holiday Fire Safety Tips

12/19/2022 (Permalink)

When fire damage affects your home, our team at SERVPRO can remove the debris and restore your kitchen!

It’s the season for holiday celebrations and family get-togethers, but it's also a time when homes are filled with more people than normal. And that means more potential for fires. Here are some tips on how to keep your home and loved ones safe this holiday season.

Reduce the Risk of Christmas Tree Fires

• If you are planning on using a real tree, make sure it is fresh and green.
• Keep the tree well watered. A dry tree will be more flammable than a well-watered one.
• Keep the tree away from heat sources such as candles or lamps that use flame, ovens or electricity.
• Don't place candles near the tree because they can cause it to catch fire if they fall over or get too close to branches of your Christmas tree when lit up with lights that have become old and worn out over time (more than 3 years old).

Holiday Decorating Tips

Use lights that are marked as flame retardant. When buying holiday lights, look for the label "flame retardant" on the package. These types of lights are designed to withstand a potential fire and contain less toxic materials than most other artificial Christmas decorations.
Keep your tree away from heat sources such as candles or space heaters.
Don't overload extension cords with too many light strands; make sure they aren't tangled up with each other or anything else in your home that could cause them to short out (like paper towels on the floor). Also consider using an outlet timer so you don't have to worry about turning off all those lights at night!

Avoiding Candle Fires

Keep candles away from curtains and other flammable materials.
Don't leave candles unattended, even for a brief period of time.
Burn candles for no more than 4 hours at a time—and never leave them burning overnight.
Place your candle on a stable, heat-resistant surface that is not easily combustible (such as wood).

How May Electrical Fires be Prevented?

Christmas lights are a popular feature in many homes during the holiday season. It is important to practice Christmas light safety and use caution when installing or using electrical decorations.
It is recommended that metallic trees not be illuminated with electric lights. Extension cords should be used for indoor and outdoor lighting needs, including those for trees, garlands, wreaths, etc.
All electrical decorations should be turned off when leaving the house or going to bed at night. This includes indoor and outdoor Christmas lights as well as other electrical decorations such as inflatable lawn figures or inflatables of any kind that require electricity for operation. 

Is Your Fireplace Prepared for the Christmas Season?

Check your fireplace to make sure it's clean. This will help prevent creosote buildup, which can cause dangerous chimney fires.
Make sure you have working smoke detectors that are properly installed and maintained in every room of your house.
Make sure you have a fire extinguisher located on each floor of your home (in addition to the one in the kitchen), near all exits and clearly labeled with instructions on what type of fire they can be used on (such as "Class A" or "Class B"). Some states require two types of extinguishers per building, with at least one being automatic; check your local regulations for specifics about placement and maintenance requirements for these devices before purchasing them from a hardware store or online retailer.
Having an easy-to-reach location for a fire blanket nearby is also important—if anything catches fire before you get back from running errands downtown this afternoon then hopefully you'll remember where it was stored!

With these tips, you can make sure your home is safe and secure during this holiday season. Remember, a fire is not something to take lightly. While most people know how to deal with small fires, larger ones can quickly overwhelm even the best-equipped homes unless you're prepared for them ahead of time!

How To Protect Your Home From Flooding

12/19/2022 (Permalink)

Our team at SERVPRO knows exactly how to help you if you experience flood damage!

Flooding is one of the most devastating natural disasters that can happen to your home. It doesn't matter if it's a small-scale flood or a massive storm that has caused major flooding; both can cause significant damage to your home and belongings. In order for you to protect yourself and your home from flooding, it's important to understand what causes flooding in the first place. This article will help shed some light on how you can prevent flooding in your home so that you never have to experience this catastrophe firsthand.

Seal any cracks in your foundation.

Leaks through your foundation are the most common cause of basement flooding. They can happen because of cracks in the wall, foundation or floor that allow water to seep in.

To prevent leaks, check for any cracks in your foundation. If you find any, fill them using concrete sealant or a waterproofing membrane.

Maintain drainage areas.

Maintaining your home’s drainage system is crucial to keeping it safe from flooding. Keep rain gutters and downspouts clean, clear leaves, debris and ice away from the roof of your home, and make sure that downspouts are draining away from the house. Use a broom to remove standing water from your yard if there is any after a heavy rainfall. If mud or debris has washed up against your foundation drainpipe or downspout, use a garden hose to wash it away so that it doesn’t clog up the pipe or block any water flow to those areas.

Install Sump Pump.

A sump pump is a mechanical device that removes water from a basement. It's connected to the sewer system through a drain pipe and must be installed correctly in order to function properly. You should test your sump pump regularly (at least once per month) by connecting it to an extension cord and turning it on for 15 minutes or so, then unplugging it and checking for leaks in the floor around where you have placed it. If no leaks are found, your sump pump is working well!

Keep your water heater safe.

The water heater is your home’s most vulnerable appliance, so it needs careful placement. The best place for a water heater is in an area that can be accessed easily but won’t be damaged if there are leaks. If you have a basement, make sure the floor is sturdy and can support the weight of a full tank of water. If you don’t have a basement or another safe spot, put your hot water tank on a stand or platform so that it’s at least 6 inches off the ground.

Keep in mind that any wall or ceiling near your hot water tank may not be able to survive a flood—and could collapse as soon as you open up the valve to turn on your faucet after flooding has subsided!

Keep valuables and important documents in a safe place.

In the event of flooding, your first line of defense is to avoid exposure to harmful water as much as possible. For example, if you live in an area that may experience flooding, it’s wise to keep valuables and important documents in a safe place. If you have a safe, use it! If not, consider buying one or keeping essential items in waterproof containers. It’s also important to store any irreplaceable items high up so that they won’t be damaged by rising water levels during a flood.

Flooding can happen anywhere; it is important to take measures to protect your home.

Flooding can cause damage to your home and lead to mold growth. It is crucial that you take precautions before the next flood season arrives.

You can prepare your home to protect against flooding. By taking the steps above, you can help keep your property safe and dry in the event of an emergency.

Protecting Your Home from Earthquake Damage

12/19/2022 (Permalink)

Earthquakes can be devastating to homes, causing significant damage. The shaking can cause furniture and appliances to fall over, and even the most carefully constructed building can have its walls cracked or crushed in an earthquake. Fortunately, there are some simple things you can do to protect your home from earthquake damage before it happens. Here is what you need to know:

Secure your water heater.

If your water heater is not bolted to the wall, it can move and injure you. If you have a gas-powered water heater, do not locate it near a fireplace or chimney as they could cause leakage. Do not locate your water heater under an overhanging roof or in an area where its weight is unsupported by the floor. Finally, do not place your washing machine or dishwasher directly above the water heater as if one of these appliances falls on top of your hot water tank, it will explode and cause serious injury.

Bolt down any large appliances.

You can also bolt appliances to the walls. For example, if you have a large refrigerator in your kitchen, it is a good idea to place it down on the floor and then bolt it to the wall. If you have a dishwasher or washing machine in your laundry room, they should be bolted as well.

Anchor items that can be easily moved in a small earthquake such as mirrors, tall furniture and wall hangings.

Use earthquake straps and other fasteners to secure items to studs or walls, if possible. Anchoring items to the wall studs will help prevent the item from falling during an earthquake. If there are no studs available, use an alternate method of anchoring (such as attaching hooks) that will hold your item securely but still allow it to be removed after an earthquake passes.

If you choose to anchor items above a load-bearing wall, make sure you do not place any strain on the supporting beam(s). A weight limit label should be present on many appliances such as refrigerators; if this label cannot be found then assume it is safe for your equipment currently located above the load bearing wall.

Consider adding latches to all drawers and cabinet doors.

One measure that can help keep your belongings safe is to install latches on drawers and cabinets. Latches are particularly helpful in protecting items in the kitchen, as they keep drawers closed even when there's an earthquake shaking the floor. This can be done by attaching a latch to each drawer or cabinet door and then locking it into place with a key or combination lock.

To install latches:

• Remove the current hardware from your drawers or cabinets; if it's just glued on, you may be able to gently pull it off with your fingers. If not, use a screwdriver to gently pry up existing hardware until you can remove it completely from its mounting surface
• Attach wooden blocks about two inches high between where each hinge normally sits (this will make sure your new hardware will fit properly). Then attach metal brackets at least one inch longer than your wood blocks on either side of these wooden blocks, so that when you reattach them all together they'll support whatever weight you want them too

Preparing your home for an earthquake can help reduce the amount of damage to it when an earthquake happens.

This can be done by doing a few simple steps:

1. Make sure that all of your water and gas lines are properly secured, especially if you have pipes that run through walls, or if you have a new construction home with a lot of open space in the walls.
2. Install smoke detectors on every floor of your house, including basements and attics (even though they're areas that are less likely to be damaged). Smoke detectors are cheap and easy to install—there's no excuse not to do it! Check them once a month just as you would with any other piece of equipment in your home.
3. If possible, move heavy items like bookcases and cabinets away from windows so they don't break during an earthquake. If this isn't possible then make sure these items are secured onto the wall using brackets or screws so they don't fall during an earthquake and cause injuries or damage other things in your house.

Remember, an earthquake can happen at any time and without warning. It’s important that you take the steps above to protect yourself and your family from injury.

Home Renters Insurance and Water Damage: Am I covered?

12/19/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage is an unfortunate reality for renters. It can happen in the blink of an eye, and the result can be devastating. Whether it's a burst pipe or even a broken appliance, you'll want to know if your renters insurance will cover the costs if any of these things happen.

Is Water Damage Covered by Renters Insurance?

Yes, but only in certain situations. Water damage is covered by renters insurance if it was caused by one of the following:

• A covered loss (such as a fire, lightning strike or storm)
• Neglect or routine wear and tear (think leaky faucets or a clogged drain)
• Flooding

Many other kinds of water damage will be covered by renters insurance.

If you're a renter and your pipes burst, or if your dishwasher overflows, or if your toilet overflows, or if you forget to turn off the water before leaving for vacation, or if you have a leaky roof—any of these things could result in water damage. And if this happens to anyone, it's usually not their fault. That's why renters insurance covers most other kinds of water damage as well.

When you look for renters insurance, check that it's the right policy for your needs.

In order to make sure your renters insurance is the right policy for you and your needs, it's important that you check the details of the policy. When you are looking at renters insurance policies, make sure that:

• You understand what is covered by the policy. If there is something in particular you want to be covered, such as jewelry or expensive electronics, look for a policy that covers those items specifically.
• You understand how the policy works. For example, some policies will have an additional fee per month if they have to pay out a claim while others will not charge extra fees until after five claims have been filed.
• The coverage amount matches what you actually own and keep at home (e.g., if there are high-value items like artworks then this should be calculated into their value). This can help prevent underinsurance when it comes time to file claims against those assets too!

Renters Flood Insurance

Renters flood insurance is a separate policy from your normal renters insurance. The cost of a renters flood policy depends on several factors, including where you live and the amount of coverage you need. For example, living in an area prone to floods might require higher limits of coverage than someone who lives in an area that’s less likely to see flooding.

A renters flood policy also covers damage done by water seeping into your home through the walls or windows. This includes water coming in through plumbing, pipes and appliances such as washing machines and dishwashers too! If there are cracks or holes in these items then they could result in a lot of dirty water getting into your home – so if this happens then all those costs will be covered under this type of insurance too!

If you're looking to protect your belongings, then renters insurance is the way to go. Make sure that it covers water damage and check out our tips above on how to choose the right policy for your needs. You'll also need to go through a little bit of hassle when filing a claim so make sure it's worth it by reading up on what could happen if you don't have coverage before signing anything!