Know Your Safe Place If A Storm Strikes Mattawan, MI

4/19/2022 (Permalink)

Know your safe place before extreme weather hits.

When preparing for extreme weather in Mattawan, knowing your safe place is a simple but potentially life saving action.  If you are unsure where your safe place is, we share some tips below from The National Weather Service.

Tornadoes

Tornadoes can be extremely dangerous.  If you receive a tornado warning, take shelter immediately.  Safe places are storm shelters and basements.  If those are not available, an interior room without windows on the lowest level, can also be protective.

Lightning

Lightning strikes the United States 25 millions times per year.  Sometimes those strikes result in permanent injury or death.  If you hear thunder or see lightning, take shelter immediately.  Indoors or inside a hard-topped and enclosed vehicle is the safest place.

Heat

The leading cause of weather-related deaths most years is heat.  During extreme heat, stay inside, keep cool, and stay hydrated.

Flooding

Water levels and flow speed can quickly change during a flood.  You are safest staying indoors, or seeking higher ground during a flood.  If you're stuck outside when a flash flood occurs, do not attempt to cross flood waters by vehicle or on foot.

Extreme Wind

During high winds, tree damage is expected.  Indoors, away from windows, in an interior room is the safest place during extreme winds.  You can also prevent damage to your property by trimming loose branches and parking away from trees.

If your property has suffered storm damage, call SERVPRO of Allegan / Barry County and SERVPRO of Van Buren County, we are Here to Help®, 269-686-0664.

A Tree Fell On My Roof In Pullman, MI - What To Do Now

3/30/2022 (Permalink)

Follow these steps for less stress after a fallen tree incident.

When a tree falls on your roof, it can cause many problems.  It can damage your home's structure, it exposes your home to the elements, and increases risk of other damage from electrical sources.  Below are steps of who to call after a tree falls on your Pullman home.

1. Make contact with necessary individuals - first you'll want to call your insurance company to consider coverage.  Then call a tree removal company, someone to tarp the roof, and a roofer.  Lastly, call SERVPRO of Allegan / Barry County if you need water restoration inside your home.
2. Remove the tree - we are not able to address water issues until the damaged area of the roof is cleared.
3. Tarp exposed areas - a fallen tree most likely will cause damage to the roof, leaving it exposed.  To ensure outside elements do not get in and cause more damage, tarping temporarily protects your home so SERVPRO of Allegan / Barry County can mitigate the water damage inside.
4. Contact a roofing contractor - you can not leave your roof tarped forever.  You will need to get with a roofing company to determine the next phase of repairs to your roof.

A fallen tree can cause a lot of damage and stress.  The above steps can help ease the stress.  Call SERVPRO of Allegan / Barry County today, 269-686-0664

Severe Wind Damage in South Haven

3/28/2022 (Permalink)

Protect yourself during a power outage.

Being close to Lake Michigan, South Haven can experience more severe winds than inward.  Many of these wind storms will cause power outages.  SERVPRO of Van Buren County responds to storm damage emergencies throughout the year.  Below are some tips for protecting yourself during a power outage:

• Keep freezers and refrigerators closed.
• Only use generators outdoors and away from windows.
• Do not use a gas stove to heat your home.
• Disconnect appliances and electronics to avoid damage from electrical surges.
• Use alternate plans for refrigerating medicines or power-dependent medical devices.
• If safe, go to an alternate location for heat or cooling.
• Check on your neighbors.

If your home or business is damaged by wind or other severe weather, SERVPRO of Van Buren County has the equipment, training, and experience to help make it "Like it never even happened." Call us today, 269-639-0464

Spring Flooding In Paw Paw, MI - Are You Prepared?

3/20/2022 (Permalink)

Don't let a flash flood surprise you, be prepared.

The first day of Spring means that we are one season closer to Summer, but also can bring some severe weather.  According to Ready.gov, floods are the most common natural disaster in the United States.  Floods cause billions of dollars worth of residential and commercial property damage each year.  Floods can damage any property in almost any location, so learning how floods form, the various types of floods, and how they can affect your property is important.

Flash floods are fast-moving waters that grab everything in its path.  Heavy rain or rapid snow melt are the causes of flash floods.  They usually are in a relatively small area and happen with little to no notice, generally less than six hours.  The rapid water can move large objects such as cars, rocks, and trees.

River floods are gradual riverbank overflows caused by extensive rainfall or snow thaw over an extended period of time.  The areas covered by river floods depend on the size of the river and the amount of precipitation.

Urban floods occur when the drainage system in a city or town cannot keep up with a heavy rain or snow melt.  The lack of natural drainage can also contribute to flooding.  Water flows out into streets, making driving very dangerous.

Pluvial floods, commonly referred to as "flash floods", form in flat areas where the terrain cannot absorb the rainwater, causing puddles and ponds to form.  Pluvial floods are similar to urban flooding, but mainly in rural areas.  This type of flooding can seriously affect agricultural activities and properties in the area.

If your Paw Paw home or business has suffered flood damage, call SERVPRO of Van Buren County, 269-639-0464.  Our professionals help to make it "Like it never even happened."

Potential Types of Winter Storm Damage to Your Lawton Home

12/10/2021 (Permalink)

Icicles are pretty but can lead to water damage.

Lawton residents should be prepared to pull out the warmest coats and bundle up this winter!  The Farmers Almanac is predicting freezing conditions and temperatures this winter in Michigan.  There are many different possible types of storm damage in the winter months.  The following are a few to be aware of:

• Strong winds may loosen roof shingles.
• Strong winds may pick up small hard items and throw them against siding and windows.
• Snow and ice and potentially make its way into holes and cracks in your foundation, roof, or siding.
• Tree branches can fall onto your roof or scrape against siding or windows.
• Ice dams can block water from flowing down gutters and force water under roof shingles.
• Heavy snows can potentially cause your roof to collapse.

There are actions that you can take ahead of time to prepare your home or business prior to a winter storm.  Check out our blog, Protect Your Middleville Home From Winter Storms, for information on what you can do to prevent winter storm damage to your property.

Call SERVPRO of Allegan / Barry County and SERVPRO of Van Buren County if your home or business has been affected by a winter storm, 2696-686-0664, we are Here to help®

Protect Your Middleville Home From Winter Storms

12/9/2021 (Permalink)

Prepare for a winter storm before it hits!

Living in Michigan means cold and snowy winters which can lead to potential damage to your home or business.  Now is the time to take action to prevent property damage from winter storms with these easy tips.

• Protect your pipes - frozen pipes are a major culprit for water damage in the winter months.  Wrapping basement and crawl space pipes with insulation is an easy solution to help prevent this from happening in your home or business.
• Clean gutters and storm drains - make sure gutters and drains are cleared out to help avoid cracking gutters, ice dam buildup, or melting snow leaking into your basement.
• Trim tree branches - trim overhanging branches away from your roof or hire a tree service to remove threatening branches.

Has winter storm damage affected your Middleville home or business?  Call SERVPRO of Allegan / Barry County and SERVPRO of Van Buren County to assess the damage, 269-686-0664.  We are Here to help®

Emergency Storm Damage Assistance in Saugatuck, MI

4/21/2021 (Permalink)

We are Here to Help after storm damage to your property.

Storm damage does not always strike during regular business hours.  Did you know that SERVPRO of Allegan/Barry/Van Buren Counties offers emergency service 24 hours a day, 365 days a year?  We are Here to Help Saugatuck homeowners secure their property and start mitigation after an emergency event immediately.

SERVPRO of Allegan/Barry/Van Buren Counties can provide temporary protective measures to prevent additional damage to your property after a disaster.  If after a fire or flood your contents need to be removed from your affected property during the restoration process, SERVPRO of Allegan/Barry/Van Buren Counties can pack your contents and move them to our warehouse for storage until the restoration process is complete.  Once restoration is complete, your contents are returned to your property.

Has your home experienced damage from a recent storm?  Call SERVPRO of Allegan/Barry/Van Buren Counties to help, 269-686-0664

Tornado Season is Approaching; Are You Ready

3/31/2021 (Permalink)

Tornado season is impending; are you prepared?

Most tornadoes occur in April, May, June, and July between 3pm-7pm in Allegan, MI. The average tornado is grounded for less than 10 minutes and travels about 5 miles. A typical tornado as it touches the ground average 200 to 400 yards, averaging winds of 71-125 mph in Michigan. The following are some tips to make sure you and your family stay safe during a tornado:

Know the difference between a tornado watch and a tornado warning. 

Tornado Watch - is issued to alert people to the possibility of tornado development in your area. 

Tornado Warning - is issued when a tornado has actually been sighted or is indicated by radar. 

Environmental clues to look out for:

• Dark, often greenish skies 
• Wall cloud
• Large hail
• Loud roar; similar to a freight train

Where you should take shelter during a tornado.

In a home - the basement offers the greatest safety. Seek shelter under sturdy furniture if possible. In homes without a basement, take cover in the center part of the house, on the lowest floor, in a small room (closet or bathroom) without windows. 

In a mobile home - the home should be evacuated, and shelter should be taken in a prearranged substantial shelter. If nearby shelter is not available, leave the home and lie flat in a ditch or ravine. Protect your head by placing your arms over it. Do not take shelter under your home. 

Driving a vehicle - get out of the vehicle and take shelter in a nearby ditch or ravine, do not get under the vehicle. Lie flat and put your arms over your head. 

At work or school - follow prepared plans to move to interior hallways or small rooms on the lowest floor. Avoid areas with windows or glass. 

In open country - lie in a gully, ditch, or low spot on the ground and hold onto something on the ground, if possible. Do not seek shelter in a damaged buildings as they may collapse. 

Have an emergency plan and kit in place.

Each tornado season, review with your family your emergency plan and practice it. Make sure to put together an emergency kit that includes a flashlight, extra batteries, battery-operated radio, first-aid kit, can opener, canned food, bottles water, and extra clothes.

If your home suffers from storm damage, call SERVPRO of Allegan/Barry/Van Buren Counties, we are Here to Help, 269-686-0664

Generator Safety Tips

3/29/2021 (Permalink)

Stay safe while using a generator.

When bad weather strikes and the power goes out it is helpful to have a generator on hand to keep your home or business running.  Below are tips on how to safely operate your generator.

• Never use a generator, or other gasoline, propane, natural gas, or charcoal-burning devices inside a home, garage, basement, crawl space, or any partially enclosed area.
• To avoid electrocution, keep the generator dry and do not use it in rain or wet conditions.  Do not touch the generator with wet hands.
• Opening doors and windows or using fans will not prevent carbon monoxide (CO) buildup in the home. Although CO can't be seen or smelled, it can rapidly lead to full incapacitation and possibly death.
• Install CO alarms in central locations on every level of your home or business and outside sleeping areas to provide early warning of accumulating carbon monoxide.

If your home or business experiences damage from a storm, call SERVPRO of Allegan/Barry/Van Buren Counties today, 269-686-0664

Storm Season in Bangor; Are You Prepared?

3/25/2021 (Permalink)

Be prepared this storm season.

Storm season in Bangor, MI is upon us; which typically starts in late March, peaks in July, and runs through August into early September. This is due to the warmer weather bringing in moisture and humidity to the air, which brings instability to the atmosphere, resulting in the potential for severe weather. Summers in West Michigan mean fun and sun but also can bring thunderstorms, strong winds, and the occasional power outage. The following are some tips to make sure you and your family stay safe this spring and summer:

Know the difference between a severe thunderstorm watch and a severe thunderstorm warning. 

Severe Thunderstorm Watch - a storm is possible and near the watch area. Monitor the situation and be prepared to act if a warning is issued.

Severe Thunderstorm Warning - severe weather has been reported to indicated by radar; an imminent danger to your safety and property is present. Take cover in a solid building or vehicle with the windows closed. 

Have an emergency plan and kit in place.

Severe weather is at its worst when it catches us by surprise; that is why having an emergency plan in place is crucial. Make sure to consider all weather events that are most likely to happen in your area. Items to have in your emergency kit include: battery-operated flashlight with extra batteries, weather radio, candles with holders, matches, first-aid kit, a three to five-day supply of bottled water and non-perishable food, blankets, sleeping bags, and cash. 

The National Weather Service is predicting more than average rain this Spring for Michigan, with temperatures expecting to be higher than average. Now is the time to make your emergency plan and gather your items for you emergency kit. 

If your home or business experiences damage from a storm, call SERVPRO of Allegan/Barry/Van Buren Counties to make it "Like it never even happened." 269-686-0664

Hailstorm Tips

12/16/2020 (Permalink)

Hailstones come in a wide range of sizes.

Living in Michigan we experience a wide variety of severe weather.  Thunderstorms are pretty common in the spring, summer and fall.  The tops of thunderstorms are below freezing so soft, snow-like particles form, yes even in the summer.  The hailstones grow bigger in the clouds as ice crystals and cloud droplets freeze onto them.  They're held in the clouds by strong winds that push up into the storm.  Once the hailstones grow too heavy, gravity causes them to fall to the Earth.

Hailstorms are known to knock out power, so it is always best to have a plan in place for severe weather.  This includes having a survival kit with flashlights, a radio, water, etc.  It is always best to be aware when severe weather is approaching as well.  Pay attention to future forecasts and always prepare for the worst.  When a hailstorm is approaching, go indoors and remain inside until the storm has passed.  If you have a garage, it is best to move vehicles inside as well.  Also, keep pets indoors as hail can widely vary in size.  When the storm has passed, be sure to check your roof for any damage; you do not want a surprise water damage when the next storm rolls through!

If your home does experience damage from a severe storm, call SERVPRO of Allegan/Barry/Van Buren Counties, We're Here to Help 24/7 - (269) 686-0664

Winter Weather Preparation

12/16/2020 (Permalink)

Keep yourself and your home safe this winter.

Winter weather is fast approaching.  SERVPRO of Allegan/Barry/Van Buren Counties know about severe weather and have helped many families and businesses in the area mitigate storm damage over the years.

Being prepared for inclement weather and knowing the difference between Advisories, Watches, and Warnings can help you stay safe this winter.  The following are the definitions of the various winter warnings from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA):

Advisory: issued when snow, blowing snow, ice, sleet, or a combination of these wintry elements is expected but conditions should not be hazardous enough to meet Warning criteria.  Be prepared for winter driving conditions and possible travel difficulties.  Use caution when driving.

Watch: issued when conditions are favorable for a significant winter storm event.  Heavy sleet, heavy snow, ice storms, blowing snow, or a combination of these events are possible.

Warning: issued for a significant winter weather event including snow, ice, sleet, blowing snow, or a combination of these hazards.  Travel will become difficult or impossible in some situations.  Delay your travel plans until conditions improve.

SERVPRO of Allegan/Barry/Van Buren Counties has a team of highly trained technicians on call 24 hours a day, call (269) 686-0664, and we'll restore your storm damage, "Like it never even happened."

Spring Storm Tips

4/23/2020 (Permalink)

Most Michiganders can agree that this winter was pretty uneventful. There was not a lot of cold weather and the snow storms were minimal. Most of us probably only had to shovel our driveway a few times! Spring tends to bring much different weather, which usually includes a few severe thunderstorms. Do not wait until last minute to prepare for this kind of weather, as it can occur on short notice. Here are some tips on how you can prepare for severe weather:

• Always have a battery powered radio on hand
• Always have numerous flashlights and candles in case of a power outage
• Stay indoors and away from windows
• Unplug non-essential electronics
• Close shutters and board windows if possible
• Have a good shelter spot
• Keep trees with large branches away from your home. Trim branches that could damage your home if they fall
• Keep extra food and water on hand

Our crew has experience emergency responding to storm damage and are available 24/7!

Have Storm or Flood Damage?
Call Us Today (269) 686-0664

Disaster Is More Than Natural

4/10/2020 (Permalink)

Some people think that a disaster only applies to Natural Disasters. A disaster is sudden event that causes great damage. That could be to your personal home or business. It's an unfortunate event that causes a disruption in your life. 

Whether for your home or business, it's important to be prepared and any type of emergency situation. There are apps available that you can sign up to receive local alerts and warnings. Create an emergency communication plan. Put together an emergency tub of supplies. Learn about local hazards in your area and practice emergency response plans or drills. Attend a class or training session on preparedness. Have a safe place for critical documents. Check with your neighbors and see if there are ways you can help each other should a disaster strike. Share resources with your neighbors. Be sure to have appropriate insurance documents and property documents. Safeguard your property by making improvements that will help aid in the reduction of potential injuries and property damage. 

Disasters can happen to anyone at any time. Protect yourself and your property by taking action now.

SERVPRO of Allegan/Barry/Van Buren County is Here to Help. (269)686-0664

Generator Safety During Severe Weather

4/8/2020 (Permalink)

Having a generator handy during a storm can be a God sent however if the proper safety tips are not taken, it could be deadly. Always remember the following:

• A generator, stove, grill, propane, natural gas or charcoal grill should NEVER be used inside your home, garage, basement or even partially enclosed area.
• Keep your generator dry by using a tarp or open canopy. Try to keep the surface dry. This will help you to avoid electrocution. Do not touch a generator with wet hands.
• Always be mindful of Carbon Monoxide buildup in the home. Opening windows and doors and using fans will not prevent CO poisoning. Sometimes exhaust fumes can not be smelt but you can still be exposed to CO. If you start to feel dizzy, weak or sick while using a generator, go outside and get fresh air immediately.
• CO Alarms should be installed in central locations on every level of your home or business and also outside sleeping areas to provide early warnings.

Severe Flooding

4/3/2020 (Permalink)

When spring hits, it often brings with it a large amount of rain. This often results in severe flooding that can leave homeowners and business owners wondering what they are going to do. If you experience water damage, call a company that you can trust. Our technicians understand the importance of performing water damage restoration in a timely manner. Our main focus at SERVPRO is to restore rather than replace. Our crew is available 24/7 for whenever disaster strikes. We highly recommend as professionals that you do not try to restore your property yourself. Failing to properly dry your home or business can result in additional damages and possible mold growth. We understand how stressful a water loss is and will walk you through our restoration process every stop of the way. When disaster strikes, have a company on speed dial that you can trust! 

Have Storm or Flood Damage?
Call Us Today (269) 686-0664

Generator Safety Tips

12/16/2019 (Permalink)

Lighted match

When bad weather strikes and the power goes out it is helpful to have a generator on hand to keep or home or business up and running. Below are tips on how to safely operate your generator.

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

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

• Opening doors and windows or using fans will not prevent carbon monoxide (CO) buildup in the home. Although CO can’t be seen or smelled, it can rapidly lead to full incapacitation and death.

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

For help restoring your home after a water loss, call SERVPRO of Allegan & Barry County  at 269-686-0664.

We’ll make it “Like it never even happened.”

Taking the fIrst Step to Prepare for Disaster

12/9/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is always ready!

The best way to be prepared for a disaster is to plan for it before it happens. Emergencies can happen at any time. There are steps you and your business can take to be better prepared when disaster strikes.

• Make sure to have proper Insurance coverage for your Home, Business and belongings
• Properly protect critical documents
• Perform drills to practice emergency response
• Be sure to test your plan
• Be involved with local new and weather apps
• Have battery or crank operated radio, flashlights and other useful item stored in an easily accessible location
• Have an up to date phone list of who to contact in an emergency

Be prepared for disaster. If disaster strike be sure to call SERVPRO. We operate 24 hours a day 7 days a week.

Have Questions? Call our Office! 269-686-0664

Planning for an Emergency with Pets

10/28/2019 (Permalink)

Tyrion is one of our beloved office dogs. Often pets are like family so it is important to include them in an emergency plan.

Our pets are valued members of the family. When an emergency happens our four-legged friends should be included in the emergency planning. This blog will give you a few tips on what to pack for your pets if disaster strikes.

PET EMERGENCY KIT IDEAS:

• Food: At least a three day supply in a water proof container'
• Water
• Familiar Items: Such as toys and bedding
• Picture of you and your pet in case of separation or for proof of ownership.
• Important documents
• Collar and harness
• Crate or pet carrier

While planning your families fire escape plan be sure to include your pets. Microchipping can also be a great way to help protect and locate your pet. For more information check out https://www.ready.gov/animals

Remember SERVPRO of Allegan & Barry County is always here to make it "Like it never even happened". 

Have Questions Call Us Today – 269-686-0664

Fire, Water, Storm Damage, Biohazards, Mold and Cleaning

Freezing temperatures and your home

4/12/2019 (Permalink)

Winter storms can caused a variety of water damage situations. With any water damage there is a timeline.

Water Damage Timeline

Within Minutes

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

Hours 1 - 24:

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

48 Hours to 1 Week:

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

More Than 1 Week:

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

Need Service? Call Us 24/7 –269-686-0664

When Flooding Occurs We Are Ready

4/11/2019 (Permalink)

Don't let April showers get you down. SERVPRO of Allegan & Barry 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 Allegan & Barry 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 https://www.SERVPRO.com/disaster-recovery that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 269-686-0664

Freezing Temperatures and Ice Daming

4/9/2019 (Permalink)

As winter comes to an end and everything begins to thaw new issues can arise. I'm talking about ice dams. An ice dam is a ridge of ice that forms at the edge of a roof and prevents melting snow from draining off the roof. The water that backs up behind the ice dam can leak into a residence and cause damage to the wall, ceiling, insulation, and other areas. There are a few signs to look for that might indicate an ice dam.

• Icicles forming on the roof line of your home
• ice and water forming on the siding or around windows
• Ice building up on the gutter or lower roof edge
• Water stains or moisture in your attic
• Water stains on the interior of your home (ceiling, walls, etc.)

When winter weather causes you trouble just remember SERVPRO of Allegan & Barry County is always here to help 24/7!

Have Questions? Call our Office! 269-686-0664