What to do after a House Fire

6/15/2022 (Permalink)

In the scary aftermath of a housefire, it's hard to know what to do first. While waiting for help to arrive, safety should be your number one concern. 

• Assess whether it’s safe to stay in the house.
• Look out for electrical and “slip and fall” hazards.
• Only attempt activities that are safe for you to perform.
• Wet materials can be VERY heavy. Be careful!
• If safe to enter, and weather permits; open windows and doors to “air out” structure and reduce smoke odors.

We understand you have many questions about what to do next. The restoration professionals at SERVPRO of Greenville/Cleveland have the experience and training needed to assess your situation and help you through the process of returning your property to its preloss condition. Call us anytime day or night at 662-846-1700.

Leaking Shower Pan in Your Home?

5/6/2022 (Permalink)

Do you know how to tell if you have a leaking shower pan? According to a study published by the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety (IBHS), homes more than twenty years old were 37 percent more likely to have water damage involving a shower, and more than half of these claims involved a damaged shower stall.

Our local team has been responding to water damage emergencies for years in the Bolivar, Sunflower, and Washington County areas. Some of these emergencies may have been prevented through routine inspection and maintenance.

Here are some tips from the IBHS for maintaining your shower pan:

Inspect tile and grout every six months, paying attention to loose or cracked tiles or cracked and crumbling grout lines. Make these repairs as needed.

Test the shower pan annually by:

1. Blocking the drain
2. Fill the shower stall with about one inch of water
3. Use a pencil to mark the waterline
4. Leave the water standing in the shower pan for eight hours
5. If the water level decreases, contact a plumbing professional

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business or home needs emergency water restoration services, SERVPRO of Greenville/Cleveland is Here to Help.  Call us today at 662-846-1700.

Tips for Your Pet during Thunderstorms

5/6/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Greenville/Cleveland responds to storm damage emergencies every year, and sometimes pets get very anxious during thunderstorms. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA)offers some great tips for managing your pet’s anxiety during a thunderstorm:

How to Help a Scared Pet

The good news is there are lots of things you can do at home to help your pet. Please remember that one thing does not work for all pets—so keep trying and see what works for them.  

• Keep calm! Your dog is aware of your emotions; they are more likely to get upset if you are.
• Try distracting your pet by playing games. You can turn on the TV, play soft music, or give them a food puzzle or Kong filled with their favorite item are all great ways to distract your pet. 
• Let them hide. If they prefer to stay under the bed, in a closet or bathroom, let them stay there. 
• If your pet does not have a place to hide, consider creating a safe place for them. Interior rooms where there is less noise or flashes of light are a good place to start.
• Anxiety vests or shirts may also help your pet feel calmer

When your home or business needs storm damage restoration services, our local team is Here to Help.  Call us today at 662-846-1700.

Holiday Tree Tips

12/8/2021 (Permalink)

With the holidays fast approaching, it is time to decorate for Christmas.  Listed below are some tips of how to prevent fire hazards from State Farm.

How to prevent Christmas tree fire hazards

• Ensure that your live tree is fresh - nobody likes a burning Christmas tree! The needles should be hard to pull from the branches and don’t break when bent between your fingers. The bottom of the trunk should be sticky with resin. If you tap the tree on the ground, few needles should fall off.
• Keep the tree away from heat sources such as fireplaces, vents and radiators.
• Be sure to check the water level daily and make sure the stand is filled with water. Heated rooms will quickly dry out the tree.
• Practice Christmas tree safety by placing the tree out of traffic and make sure it’s not blocking doorways.
• If you buy an artificial tree, be sure to look for the “Fire Resistant” label. The label doesn’t guarantee the tree won’t catch on fire, but it does indicate the tree is more resistant to catching on fire.

https://www.statefarm.com/simple-insights/residence/holiday-fire-safety-tips

If you do experience fire damage, call SERVPRO of Greenville/Cleveland today at (662)846-1700.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

HVAC Tips

10/1/2021 (Permalink)

HVAC systems may seem like the last thing that would cause a severe water disaster in your home but they definitely can do their fair share of damage if not being looked after properly. The most common causes of HVAC issues include frozen evaporator coils, clogged drains and pipes that may not be connected properly.

You should always do these simple things to make sure you help to prevent any water damage caused by your HVAC unit.

• Change the HVAC filter regularly
• Clean the condenser
• Install a condensation pump
• Maintain the overflow drain plan
• Maintain the condensation drain line
• And always have your HVAC system inspected professionally

If you have a fire, water, or mold disaster give SERVPRO of Greenville/Cleveland a call today. Our highly trained professionals are ready to help day or night. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for all of your cleaning and restoration needs. 

Grilling Time

10/1/2021 (Permalink)

Just think, one minute you are cooking food on your grill enjoying a beautiful fall day with your family, and the next moment you are trying to put out a fire in your home!

When a fire starts near or around a home it will instantly start to warp parts of the structure in which it is close to. Siding and lighting among others things will start to get hot and change its structure as the fire begins to heat them up. Fire also can cause sever soot damage which can result in the loss of many of your items.

So what can you do to avoid a grill fire this fall? According to www.charbroil.com you can follow these simply tips and tricks to help avoid any kind of fire disaster.

1. Trim the fat. Flare-ups usually happen because of excess fat, sauces or oily marinades.
2. Keep the lid open. When searing fatty foods, leave the grill lid opened.
3. Avoid wind. Try to keep your grill away from windy areas. 
4. Move your food. 
5. Burn the grease away. 
6. Clean your grill

If you have a fire, give SERVPRO of Greenville/Cleveland a call today at (662)846-1700.

Pet Safety

6/29/2021 (Permalink)

During this Summer Season, SERVPRO of Greenville/Cleveland wants to remind you to be pet prepared.  Pets are just as important as any family member to many people, so make them a part of your preparedness planning.

There are several things you can do to make sure your pets stay safe during an emergency.

• Know how to find pet friendly hotels along your travel routes.
• Build a Pet Preparedness Kit.
• Have a trusted friend who can check on your pets if you are unable to get home.

We hope you enjoy a safe Fourth of July.

The experienced crews of SERVPRO of Greenville/Cleveland are always here to help.  If your home or business is affected by storm damage, call the trusted professionals at 662-846-1700. 

Appliance Malfunctions

5/26/2021 (Permalink)

Dishwashers are one of the many dangers that are lurking in your kitchen. When a water line is not properly installed or a dishwasher is uneven, it can cause you a headache.  When a water line is attached incorrectly, it can result in a huge mess that will or can destroy your kitchen in a matter of minutes.

As soon as that dishwasher comes on, water will begin to flow. If the lines are not installed correctly, it will either start with a gradual leak or turn into a pool right before your eyes. When the water line comes off while the dishwasher is on and washing, it can cause a huge flow of water that in seconds will start to fill up the kitchen. You will need to quickly go to your water supply line and turn it off if it's safe to do so.  Water can become mold very quickly if not taken care of and dried up quickly.

Contact SERVPRO of Greenville/Cleveland today for all your water damage restoration needs!

Precautions to Prevent Fires

5/26/2021 (Permalink)

Below are precautions you can take to help prevent house fires.

Electrical Equipment

1. Make sure your outlets aren't overloaded 
2. Your Electrical appliances don't have loose or frayed cords/plugs
3. Don't have electrical wires under heavy equipment.

Candles

Keep candles on a level surface, away from combustible materials and out of reach of children or pets. Always blow them out before leaving the house. 

Cooking Equipment

When a pot and pan splatter grease, it can take seconds to cause a fire. When cooking stay close by, especially if using oil or high temperatures. Keep combustibles away from the heat source (e.g. oven mitts, dish towels, paper towels).

Fire Pits

1. You may need a permit depending on where you live to have a fire. 
2. Use a screen over your fire to keep the sparks from flying 
3. Keep a bucket of water or a hose close by.
4. You have to have a permit if your fire is bigger than 2 ft tall and 3 ft diameter. 
5. Keep at least 25 ft away from structures and tree limbs. 

Facts about Tornadoes

12/2/2020 (Permalink)

We all may think we know "enough" about tornadoes; I mean, they are big, scary, and UNWANTED. But, did you know.....

• The winds of a tornado can reach speeds of up to 480km per hour 
• In extreme cases, tornadoes can last several hours and cross distances over 150km!
• Tornadoes are measured using the Fujita Scale (or F-scale), ranging from F0 to F5, with F5 being the strongest and most destructive.
• Most of the world’s tornadoes occur in the United States in what’s known as Tornado Alley. Stretching from West Texas to North Dakota, this area can see more than 200 tornadoes each year!
• Tornadoes can be invisible until they pick up dust and debris, or a cloud forms within the spinning funnel.

More facts about tornadoes can be found at https://www.natgeokids.com/za/discover/geography/physical-geography/tornado-facts/. 

Risks Associated with Lighting Candles

10/2/2020 (Permalink)

Burning candles in the home is an extremely common practice, whether it is for scent, ambiance or holiday celebrations—but with the regularity of an activity like this, it can be easy to forget the fire hazards that candles can pose in the home. While small, it is important to remember that candles are still an open flame and present the same dangers that any other type of fire would when in use.

Candles are responsible for nearly 10,000 fires every single year, many of which are entirely avoidable.

Many fires caused by candles are a result of people placing them too close to flammable objects, especially if they leave the room or fall asleep while the candle is still burning. Below, we will go over some candle safety tips so you can be certain you are decorating and celebrating safely.

Top Tips for Candle Safety in the Home

While candles can be a great way to decorate your home and add pleasant scents, you should still treat them as carefully as you would any other open flame. Here are some helpful safety tips:

• Keep candles at least a foot from anything flammable, such as drapes, upholstery or blankets.
• Rely on flashlights or lanterns for light sources instead of candles in case of a power outage.
• Make sure candles are always out of reach of young children.
• Do not place candles anywhere that they could be accidentally knocked over, especially if you have pets in the house.
• Do not leave the room if a candle is burning and extinguish a candle if you think you may fall asleep.
• Trim your candle’s wick before lighting to keep the flame low and prevent it from flickering or flaring up unpredictably.
• Avoid placing your candle in a place that is drafty as this can blow the flame.

If your home is damaged by flames or smoke, you can count on our expert technicians to handle every aspect of the restoration. We are here 24 hours a day to take your call, give you more information or dispatch quickly to begin your restoration.  Call us today to learn more.

Clogged Drains

10/2/2020 (Permalink)

When you are dealing with a clogged drain at home, it may sound tempting to just pour a chemical cleaner to eliminate the problem. However, this is not always the right solution. Drain cleaner has some properties that can damage your pipes and wreak havoc on your home in Sunflower, Bolivar, or Washington County. Educate yourself about this type of cleaner to use it appropriately.

The Basics of Chemical Cleaners

Liquid cleaners used in sewage cleaning can be either oxidizing, caustic or acidic. No matter the type of chemicals, they create heat that dissolves organic blockage such as food, hair, or grease. Specifically, the cleaner triggers an electron transfer that either adds to or removes electrons from the organic matter. The heat generated by this exchange then weakens the clog, making it easier to flush away.

Potential Damage and Consequences
Despite the convenience of these cleaners, they are not ideal for every clogged drain case. There are specific situations where they can damage the pipes.

• Plastic pipes
• Older and weaker metal pipes
• Complete drain blockage
  
  

The strong chemicals can diminish the pipes, leading to extensive water damage that only an emergency remediation service can fix. They also have secondary effects on both your health and the environment. Prevent these consequences by limiting use to partial blockage made of organic materials and only as a last resort when alternatives fail.

Alternatives to Cleaners
There are a couple of solutions to try before deploying a drain cleaner. First, you can go the mechanical route by using tools to manually unclog the drain. Augers and plunges are the most common devices for this method. If it does not work, try enzymatic cleaners. These products contain enzymes, or bacteria, that break down the clog. They usually take a day to unblock the pipe, but they are a safer option.
While chemical cleaners are a fast solution for a clogged drain, they are not always effective and should be used when out of options. Ensure your situation meets the right criteria before using this agent.

Storm Emergency Kit

7/28/2020 (Permalink)

There are many things you can do to prepare for a "storm event".  One of these very important items is a Home Emergency Kit/Car Emergency Kit.  In the kit is a collection of basic household/automobile items that you will need in an emergency. Try to assemble your kit as soon as possible so that it will be ready in case of an emergency and don't forget to rotate new items in so when you need it there will not be expired or out-of-date items.  

When there is a "storm event" it takes at least 72 hours for emergency and relief workers to be on scene. Services like electricity and phone might be cut off for over a week. Kits should be prepared with this information in mind.

Be Prepared!!  Use online resources to see what should be in your emergency kit!

Employment Opportunities

5/19/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Greenville/Cleveland is currently hiring Production and Cleaning Technicians and a Marketing Representative. The requirements for these positions:

• Must have a professional appearance and great attitude.
• A valid driver license with a reasonable driving record.
• Ability to pass a criminal background check with no felony convictions or misdemeanors involving violence or theft.
• Must be able to pass a drug test.
• Because SERVPRO of Greenville/Cleveland provides 24-hour emergency services, must be willing to be on call, as needed.
• Some night and weekend work is required.
• Must be able to lift a minimum of 50 pounds.
• Must have a high school diploma or a GED certificate.  Please email your resume to SERVPRO8768@cableone.net or drop off your resume at 715 E. Sunflower Road Cleveland, MS 38732.

General Clean Up

3/9/2020 (Permalink)

On Friday, March 6, 2020, SERVPRO of Greenville/Cleveland started a project to clean four daycares located throughout Sunflower County.  These local daycares will be getting a general cleaning during their Spring Break.  Daycares included are Drew, Moorhead, Ruleville, and Sunflower, Mississippi.  SERVPRO of Greenville/Cleveland can perform any general cleanings or post construction cleanings in Bolivar, Sunflower, or Washington counties whether it is commercial or residential.  Cleaning can include inside and outside of cabinets, walls, ceilings, HVAC, floors, light fixtures, blinds, ceiling fans, baseboards, trim, windows, carpet cleaning, and so much more.  SERVPRO of Greenville/Cleveland also provides content cleaning.  Call SERVPRO of Greenville/Cleveland today to get an estimate for a general cleaning or post construction cleaning.  Call (662)846-1700 today!  At SERVPRO, we are always here to help!  

Why Choose SERVPRO When You Have a Water Damage

10/23/2019 (Permalink)

Once water has penetrated your floor during a water damage, it is very possible that you may be required to remove the flooring. A lot of times, the floor is sitting on a sub floor or a vapor barrier which means it will hold moisture and SERVPRO of Greenville/Cleveland won't be able to dry it properly. If the floor isn't removed, water could be trapped and could be the cause of bacterial or mold growth in the future.

You should always consult with a professional before trying to dry your water damage on your own. You can always call us! We are available 24 hours a day and 365 days a year. Contact us today at (662)846-1700.  SERVPRO of Greenville/Cleveland is IICRC Certified and ready to help you day or night!

Why Choose SERVPRO?

7/17/2019 (Permalink)

Why Choose SERVPRO for your next water or fire damage restoration?

SERVPRO of Greenville/Cleveland is an emergency service company that provides quality work and specializes in Water, Fire, and Mold Remediation.  SERVPRO of Greenville/Cleveland's staff and technicians are always available to help and are IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) certified. From trainings and webinars, all SERVPRO of Greenville/Cleveland's employees are experienced in restoration.

SERVPRO of Greenville/Cleveland can also help you with HVAC cleanings, Carpet cleanings, and Upholstery cleanings.  A recent job SERVPRO of Greenville/Cleveland has completed is cleaning of a Kitchen and Dining area in a school due to vandalism.  SERVPRO of Greenville/Cleveland’s employees did an excellent job until finished to prepare the school to be back in working order before the 2019-2020 school year begins.  

Please contact us today at (662)846-1700 for your restoration needs!

Conditions In Bolivar, Sunflower, and Washington County Might Be Right For Mold

5/10/2019 (Permalink)

It’s estimated that more than 1 million types of mold exist, yet less than 10 percent have actually been named. This means mold is very common in both indoor and outdoor environments. While mold and humans can sometimes co-exist without issue, there are certain species of mold that can cause health effects for some people.

If the right conditions exist, mold will grow.  Those conditions include:

• Water - Different mold types require varying amounts of liquid before growth begins.   
• Temperature - Normal indoor temperatures will promote mold growth.
• Time - Initial mold colonizers can take hold within one day after being exposed to an adequate water supply.

Mold growth can occur in any home, so it’s important to keep an eye out for situations that might promote mold activity. Roof/chimney leaks, wet basements, or condensation from ducts that dampen surrounding insulation are just a few examples of issues that make a house a prime target for mold growth.

If you suspect mold in your home, call SERVPRO of Greenville/Cleveland to assess the situation. We have the knowledge, tools and track record to effectively remediate mold in your home or business.

If you suspect mold, call us today at (662)846-1700.

What to Do:

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

Bolivar, Sunflower, and Washington County Residents: Follow These Mold Safety Tips If You Suspect Mold

5/10/2019 (Permalink)

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

What to Do:

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

What Not to Do:

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

About Our Mold Remediation Services

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

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – (662)846-1700.

Why Choose SERVPRO for Mold Remediation

3/8/2019 (Permalink)

Mold in Rosedale, MS

This Rosedale family discovered extensive microbial growth in their home. Believe it or not, mold problems like this can be mitigated with the right expertise and equipment. SERVPRO of Greenville/Cleveland has trained technicians that were able to remove the mold growth, and then restore the space to preloss conditions. The family was very grateful that we were able to recover their home and protect them from any potential health effects. 

The Mold Remediation Process

Every mold infestation is different, from the extent and type of growth, to the variety of materials affected. Each scenario requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same. When you discover mold, call us at (662)846-1700 and we will go through our standard mold remediation process: 

• Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment

• Mold Containment

• Air Filtration

• Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials

• Cleaning Contents and Belongings

• Restoration

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – (662)846-1700.

Our Services

10/11/2018 (Permalink)

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

What to Do:

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

What Not to Do:

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

About Our Mold Remediation Services

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

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – (662)846-1700.

Mold Growth

10/11/2018 (Permalink)

It’s estimated that more than 1 million types of mold exist, yet less than 10 percent have actually been named. This means mold is very common in both indoor and outdoor environments. While mold and humans can sometimes co-exist without issue, there are certain species of mold that can cause health effects for some people.

If the right conditions exist, mold will grow.  Those conditions include:

• Water - Different mold types require varying amounts of liquid before growth begins.   
• Temperature - Normal indoor temperatures will promote mold growth.
• Time - Initial mold colonizers can take hold within one day after being exposed to an adequate water supply.

Mold growth can occur in any home, so it’s important to keep an eye out for situations that might promote mold activity. Roof/chimney leaks, wet basements, or condensation from ducts that dampen surrounding insulation are just a few examples of issues that make a house a prime target for mold growth.

If you suspect mold in your home, call SERVPRO of Greenville/Cleveland to assess the situation. We have the knowledge, tools and track record to effectively remediate mold in your home or business.

If you suspect mold, call us today at 662-846-1700.

What to Do:

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