Mitigating Flood Damage in Mount Vernon Quickly

4/14/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is ready to handle any disaster. Contact us 24/7 for certified professionals and equipment to help you.

Our Solutions for Fast Flood Recovery

Floods can cause significant damage to your property, and the longer you wait to mitigate the damage, the worse it can get. At SERVPRO®, we understand the urgency of mitigating flood damage and offer fast and practical solutions to help you get back on your feet as quickly as possible. Our 24/7 response gets boots on the ground fast.

Flood damage in Mount Vernon homes can spread quickly and overwhelm the structure's lowest or most vulnerable levels. While healthy amounts of rainfall and moisture can benefit the lush growth at Schuh Farms or Roozengaarde Display Gardens, it destroys your residence. We keep service vehicles stocked with drying and extraction equipment for post-flood recovery. Our services include:

• Post-Storm Board-Up and Repairs

When your property has been damaged, the first step we take is to provide direct boarding up and sealing services to prevent further water damage. We proactively use thick plywood to cover broken windows and missing doors and tarp over roof holes. 

• Extracting Standing Water

The next step is to remove any surface water that may have accumulated. We use specialized extraction solutions to remove standing water while effectively accounting for any solids present. We have a range of powerful machines at our disposal to get this done quickly and efficiently, including truck-mount extractors, trash pumps, and wet vacuums.

• Thorough Cleaning and Restoration 

Removing surface water is just one of the initial steps in the extensive cleaning and restoration process required for your household. Our technicians pay considerable attention to decontamination procedures, and all nonporous surfaces are thoroughly treated with powerful disinfection products and potent mold-inhibiting agents.

Call Us Now for Fast and Effective Flood Damage Mitigation Solutions

We understand that time is of the essence when dealing with flood damage. We prioritize removing the water and preventing the situation from escalating further. Don't wait; call SERVPRO of Skagit and Island Counties now at (360) 873-8744 for swift and effective mitigation and cleanup solutions.

Water Restoration Done the Right Way in Mount Vernon

5/18/2023 (Permalink)

Storm damage? SERVPRO is prepared with restoration equipment and experienced technicians.

Helpful Water Restoration Tips for Mount Vernon Residents

Storms can introduce a great deal of water into Mount Vernon homes and businesses in minutes. Consumers and business owners are often surprised by how much damage water can cause during a storm, especially if water cleanup and restoration are delayed even for twenty-four hours. Porous materials absorb moisture, losing structural integrity, and mold colonies begin growing in as little as twenty-four hours. Our restoration tips and service will help consumers limit the damage.

SERVPRO provides water restoration services to residents of Mount Vernon, covering storms, plumbing leaks, and sewer backups. Fast action by clients and our technicians can significantly reduce the secondary damage caused by water remaining in place longer than necessary. We have found the following tips benefit our clients after storms have inundated their homes with water:

• Ensure the safety of your family and employees. Avoid trips and falls, exposure to compromised electrical systems, and contaminated water.
• Turn off power to all affected areas and remove electronics where possible.
• Call your home insurance company to verify insurance coverage and meet with your adjuster.
• Call SERVPRO for help with water removal, drying, cleaning, and restoration.
• Remove portable contents to a dry area, and clean and disinfect all removed items.
• Remove water, and install air movers and dehumidifiers.
• Remove porous materials that have been compromised to avoid mold formation.
• Arrange for the restoration of flooring, walls, and contents.
• Replace contents that could not be salvaged and cleaned.

SERVPRO can work closely with your insurance company, tracking expenses for water removal, cleaning, drying, restoration, and replacement of contents and structures that cannot be restored or repaired.

Call SERVPRO of Skagit and Island Counties for water restoration services. We provide service to Mount Vernon and nearby areas. We can help 24/7. Call (360) 873-8744.

The Key to Mount Vernon Basement Water Damage Restoration

12/22/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO provides top-quality storm damage restoration services. We are ready at a moment's notice.

Water Damage Restoration After Flooding

Basements can be a typical place to see storm and flood damage. Water restoration services focus on mitigative strategies to remove standing water and protect contents.

Clearing Deep Floodwater

Basements can be one of the most heavily impacted areas of a house for flood damage, so water damage restoration for Mount Vernon properties must begin fast when these disasters occur. Before many other mitigative strategies can begin, SERVPRO must remove surface water with the largest extractors in our inventory, like truck-mount pumps and trash pump units capable of handling water with debris.

Removing Water with Light Extraction Tools

Deep extraction might be the priority, but that can only be successful in taking water damage to roughly two inches of pooling. Beyond this point, less powerful and continually primed units like wet vacuums and light wands must take over the process. This extraction phase is decisively slower but offers restoration professionals more control over where this extraction occurs and areas requiring more attention.

Moisture Damage Discovery and Drying

Standing water is not the full measure of the threat to your basement after floodwater infiltrates this house level. We must also determine what materials have become impacted by migrating moisture. If contamination is a concern, porous elements in contact with the moving water must be removed and replaced. Damp features can also be tracked and dried using a combination of tools like:

• Heaters
• Air movers
• Moisture monitoring devices
• Desiccant dehumidifiers

Overcoming Environmental Moisture 

While it can be enough of a process to remove standing surface water and dry or remove impacted materials, we must also focus on water removal for the environment. Lingering moisture is sure to facilitate mold growth after flooding, so we must work to limit excessive moisture damage by using dehumidifiers, heaters, and hygrometers. 

Water damage restoration is critical after flooding. There is an urgency to clear floodwater before greater harm results from exposures and contaminants. We utilize multiple tools and approaches to regulating this threat. Give SERVPRO of Skagit and Island Counties team a call today at (360) 873-8744.

Flood Damage in Mount Vernon Necessitates Professional Help

7/24/2022 (Permalink)

Flooded basements can cause structural damage to your home. Call SERVPRO for effective water removal and drying efforts. Our technicians are here.

How SERVPRO Handles Storm Flooding in Mount Vernon 

The flood damage a storm leaves behind can be rapid and long-lasting, mainly for the basement and other low-lying areas. It is wise to contact professionals who can complete the restoration job perfectly and efficiently.

SERVPRO is a good choice when you need to handle storm flood damage in your Mount Vernon home. We have the latest water restoration equipment and products to complete the job well. We can restore your residence after storm flood damage of any magnitude. Our flood damage repair services include: 

• Inspection – We can visually inspect your home to assess the damage. Our team can also use non-penetrative moisture meters to determine the areas in your house that have elevated moisture levels, even the hidden spots.
• Water removal – We can use industrial-grade pumps to remove the water. Suppose the stagnant water in your home is two or more inches deep and does not contain solid materials. In that case, our SERVPRO team can use submersible pumps with adequate volume capacity and lift capability to remove it. 
• Thorough drying and dehumidification – We can dry your house using air moving and dehumidifying equipment. 
• Hardwood floor repair – Our SERVPRO technicians can act quickly to remove water from your hardwood floor to prevent staining and warping. We can fully repair the flooring. 
• Drywall water damage repair – We can repair or remove soaked drywall to leave your home with a structurally sound new wall. 
• Sewage cleanup – A sewage leak spreads bacteria. SERVPRO’s well-trained personnel can clean it up quickly and safely. We can dispose of the sewage in compliance with the highest safety standards and decontaminate the affected areas thoroughly. 
• Deodorization techniques that can fit your specific case. We can use different products and equipment like thermal foggers to eliminate the bad smells. 

Restoring certain items after flood damage is next to impossible. Porous materials such as pillows and mattresses may almost certainly be full of microbes multiplying by the minute. In that case, they must be discarded.

For your safety after flood damage, contact SERVPRO of Skagit County at (360) 873-8744 for a fast and effective restoration. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Flood Damage Mitigation in Anacortes

6/22/2022 (Permalink)

For help with any moisture-related problem, call SERVPRO of Skagit County at (360) 873-8744 any day of the week.

Flood Damage Mitigation in Anacortes Involves the Use Of Various Types Of Equipment

Anyone who has lived in the Anacortes region for a decent amount of time knows that severe storms can occur. Excessive rains and high-speed winds can create conditions that could cause your property extensive flood damage. Any time water from the outside enters your home from incidents like a leaking roof or broken window, your building materials, and contents could be at risk. Problems not treated promptly can become worse as time goes on.

Whenever our SERVPRO technicians work on a flood damage situation in Anacortes, we attempt to remove all standing water and dry out any wet materials as quickly as possible. To achieve this goal, our team utilizes a wide variety of techniques and tools of the trade. Most professional restoration companies use a combination of five different types of equipment when removing moisture from a structure after a storm devastates your property.

Detection Devices

Before any restoration or mitigation procedures begin, our SERVPRO crew first uses instruments to detect moisture levels. We use detection devices to determine where the water that entered your residence traveled. We can also use detection instruments to figure out how wet items got by testing unaffected and affected areas.

Extraction Equipment

To help speed up the restoration process, our SERVPRO technicians can use heavy-duty extractors to pull out water while it is still in its liquid form.

Air Moving Equipment

Air movers and large box fans sometimes get used to create air circulation within an affected room. Circulating the air pushes moist air next to wet surfaces away so that more water can evaporate from the affected items.

Dehumidification Equipment

Dehumidifiers get used to pull water vapor from the air and control your house's indoor relative humidity levels. These machines pull in wet air, dispense the moisture in liquid form, and then exhaust warm, dry air.

Deodorization Equipment

When foul odors exist after your structure gets dried out, we can use equipment to apply chemicals to help deodorize your structure.

If you ever notice that your contents or building materials inside your home got wet after a storm, it is best to call in the professionals. For help with any moisture-related problem, call SERVPRO of Skagit County at (360) 873-8744 any day of the week.

Use SERVPRO’s Expertise When Facing a Flood Damage Scenario in Mount Vernon

5/3/2022 (Permalink)

Don’t let flood damage destroy your home. SERVPRO can hope with drying both contents and structure.

The Most Cost-Effective Drying for Mount Vernon Homes

With every flood and water loss situation that threatens Mount Vernon homes and businesses, our project management and crew chiefs must thoroughly assess the damaged properties for the best restorative approach. While formulating a plan tailored to the needs of your residence, hundreds of drying decisions must get made to ensure that every affected surface and belonging in your structure gets the specific attention necessary to restore the house to its preloss condition.

Cost efficiency is one of the main focuses of our SERVPRO team when addressing flood damage in Mount Vernon homes. In some situations, we have the technology and capability of fully restoring damaged items or construction materials after flooding. Still, it is most cost-effective and fastest to remove it and reinstall it at a later point when drying completes. With a full-service team of general contractors in-house, we have the versatility to make a broader range of choices from one item to the next.

Through our years of experience in the restoration industry, we have learned that preserving and drying affected and saturated materials are often more cost-effective than replacement. With natural flooding, cost efficiency takes a backseat to reducing hazards and potential contamination in the house. In these scenarios, our SERVPRO team leans on the side of replacement to eliminate threats to your family and continued risk to the unaffected areas of the structure.

For structural elements and framing that can remain after material removal, the disinfection of this framework can allow it to remain despite the controlled demolition of neighboring construction materials, flooring, and ceiling tile. Biocides, disinfectants, and antimicrobial agents can eliminate spores and microorganisms present in the structural skeleton of your household. By making the surface uninhabitable to microbes and colonization, proper drying can allow a strong and reliable base for reconstruction by our licensed general contractors.

Many factors play into the possibility of drying materials and contents after flood damage. No matter how we can help, give our qualified SERVPRO of Skagit County professionals a call today at (360) 873-8744.

Who Can Help with Flood Damage in Mount Vernon?

2/15/2022 (Permalink)

We have crews available for emergency response 24 hours a day and will deploy our Green Fleet within hours of your call.

Mount Vernon Homeowners Can Call SERVPRO for Flood Restoration

Whenever a storm strikes your neighborhood, several things could happen to your home. Storms can cause water to rise from the ground and enter your home. Wind can also send debris flying into your roof or windows, driving a hole in your structure during the storm. 

Flood damage restoration in Mount Vernon can become more severe if work is not promptly started. Everyone knows that storms travel on their own time, so you never know when your house will suffer from a disaster. Luckily, our SERVPRO technicians are available 24 hours a day and seven days a week to help you after a storm floods out your home.

Services to Mitigate Flood Water Damage

• Water Extraction
• Structural Deodorization
• Applied Structural Drying (ASD)
• Water Damage Debris Removal
• Restorative Carpet Cleaning

The first thing our SERVPRO crew does when arriving at your property is to take steps to make sure the work area is safe. For example, if there are trip or fall hazards, we can remove them so that the workplace is safe. Next, we figure out the source of your structure's leak and then take steps to keep more moisture from entering your building. For instance, if a broken window is the water's source, we can board it up or use tarps to seal the hole in your structural components.

Suppose the power went out during the storm. Our technicians can bring a generator with them so that your house has the electricity to conduct the restoration procedures. We can also set up heaters in your home so that the interior stays at normal room temperature. If ASD procedures are needed, we can increase the heat in your structure to speed up the drying process. 

If you ever happen to step in a puddle of water inside your house after a storm strikes, call SERVPRO of Skagit County at (360) 873-8744.

How Can Homeowners Perform Storm Flood Damage Restoration in Anacortes?

12/13/2021 (Permalink)

Dealing with flood damage after a storm can seem overwhelming. Contact SERVPRO for effective water removal and remediation services. Call 24/7.

They Can Hire SERVPRO to Help Them Handle Storm Flood Damage in Anacortes

A storm can leave you dealing with extensive flood damage in your home if standing water levels rise at an alarming rate. Floodwater can cause serious issues in your property, such as cupping and buckling of wood floors and drywall deterioration. As a leading storm and flood restoration company, SERVPRO can remove the water in your home, clean it up and dry it. You do not have to face the hazards of dealing with storm and flood damage on your own.

Our experienced technicians can perform storm flood damage restoration in your Anacortes residence quickly and cost-effectively. Our goal is to see you completely satisfied, and we work systematically to restore buildings to their normal condition. Our SERVPRO team makes the storm flood restoration process seamless by offering:

• Free thorough assessments
• Water removal using highly efficient equipment
• Full-service cleaning to prevent microbial growth
• Dehumidification

Floodwater is usually contaminated. Therefore, we protect ourselves by wearing protective gear like masks, gloves, and rubber boots. The presence of water in a house promotes and sustains microbial growth. The main steps in remediation or mitigation are removing contaminated materials and removing moisture. Our SERVPRO team concentrates on drying the structure quickly to minimize moisture levels. We can also apply antimicrobial products before starting the restoration process to ensure safety. We use suitable pumps to remove floodwater and anything that might be in it, like mud and sand. After removing the water, we clean the affected areas thoroughly.

Drying the affected structures and contents is another essential step in flood remediation. To dry the air, our SERVPRO team uses drying equipment such as air movers and dehumidifiers to control humidity levels. We also use the science of psychometry to monitor whether the drying process is working well. We expedite the drying process by managing psychometric conditions, namely temperature, humidity, and airflow.

To handle storm damage in your residence, call SERVPRO of Skagit County at (360) 873-8744. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Where Can Homeowners Get Storm and Flood Damage Restoration Services in Mount Vernon?

11/28/2021 (Permalink)

Facing flooding? Team SERVPRO has the experienced technicians and effective equipment to tackle the flood damage remediation task. Call us 24/7.

They Can Hire SERVPRO To Perform Storm Flood Damage Repair in Mount Vernon

Having a flooded home is frustrating and stressful, but you can clean it up with professional assistance. SERVPRO has the expertise to clean up and repair your home after storm and flood damage. Our technicians have assisted thousands of flood damage victims in restoring properties of any size to their original condition.

We get right to work employing proven strategies to deal with storm flood damage in Mount Vernon. Floodwater may contain contaminants like sewage, petrol, silt, sand, and oily substances. We can examine your home to determine which water restoration procedures and equipment are most suitable for dealing with contaminated water. Our SERVPRO restorers can perform the following procedures:

• Removing standing water
• Dying out the property
• Cleaning contaminated areas
• Fixing or replacing damaged structures

Water removal

Excess water threatens a house and endangers its contents. We take content preservation as seriously as the property itself. If two inches or more of water is standing in the affected areas, we can extract it using submersible pumps. The more water we extract, the less moisture we have to remove using dehumidifiers.

Drying out the property

Airflow is essential when drying structures. Our SERVPRO restorers know the appropriate techniques for using airflow to dry a house. We use air movers to increase the evaporation rate and dehumidifiers to remove moisture. We also create a drying goal, which indicates the conditions that contents and materials should display when we restore them to preloss dryness. Drying goals are the conditions we want to bring about in affected areas.

Cleaning contamination

We can remove the contamination in your home using germicides and disinfectants. These are antimicrobials that destroy about 99 percent of the organisms they contact on the surfaces where they are applied.

Fixing or replacing damaged structures

Our SERVPRO team can repair or replace damaged structures like roofing, siding, and walls.

When in need of storm and flood restoration services, call SERVPRO of Skagit County for help. Our 24-hour helpline is (360) 873-8744.

Can an Anacortes Home with Flood Damage Be Repaired?

9/7/2021 (Permalink)

Flooding can sometimes feel like an overwhelming emergency. Contact Team SERVPRO for certified water removal technicians and efficient services.

Flood Restoration of an Anacortes Home is Possible Thanks to SERVPRO’s Expertise

Flood damage to an Anacortes home may look like the house is a total loss. Debris, sludge, and the presence of bacteria may look like water restoration is impossible, but only a certified water restoration team can make that assessment. Before you give up on restoring your water-damaged home, make a call to a leading water damage restoration crew and let them recommend a course of action to save your home and belongings.

In Anacortes, flood damage emergency services are available to you by making a call to SERVPRO. Our staff is available around the clock to bring the latest in flood damage restoration and water damage repairs into your home. Once we arrive at your home, we don personal protective equipment and start to identify the extent of the damage and the steps we need to take to restore your home while mitigating your loss. Our intervention is carefully documented, and our team is ready to help with your insurance claim process.

What does flood damage restoration entail?

Each situation is unique, and our SERVPRO team handles them accordingly. However, a few core processes are common to most, if not all, flooding situations. Those include-

• Extracting water from the home using powerful pumps and discarding it according to environmental and local regulations.
• Cleaning each surface from sludge and removing any debris remaining in the home. As warranted, we may suggest move-out services to store or clean specific items off-site and keep them safe until the house is ready.
• Application of anti-microbial solutions to control bacteria growth, especially mold, is a common consequence of any event where humidity levels rise dramatically.

SERVPRO of Skagit County is your premier flood restoration partner in your time of need. Call us at (360) 873-8744 and let us leave your home “Like it never even happened.”

Torrential Storms in Mount Vernon Can Cause Flood Damage

8/23/2021 (Permalink)

When your basement has flooding, secondary damages can quickly ensue. Tackle flood damage by contacting SERVPRO right away for services.

Restoring Water Damaged Homes in Mount Vernon Is Less Overwhelming with SERVPRO’s Help

Sometimes it is not only the storm's size but also the frequency with which rain falls in Mount Vernon that ends up causing water damage to its homes. Rising water levels can be behind basement flooding, and the storms can easily make their way through windows and doors, leaving you in need of a professional water damage restoration. When you need emergency services following a water event, make sure to select a team known for its knowledge and expertise.

In Mount Vernon, flood damage is no match for SERVPRO and our staff of experts. When the incident requires sewage cleanup and disinfecting, our crew is ready for it. Thanks to our training with leading experts in the industry and our past on-the-job experience, we have a clear understanding of the essential steps to conducting a successful water damage restoration in your home. Starting with industry-grade equipment and following the latest techniques, we handle the following aspects in the course of addressing flood damage in your home:

• Water extraction- pumps of varying sizes along with specialized equipment such as extraction wands and drying mats help us take care of the unwanted water in your home.
• Drying-air circulators, dehumidifiers, and desiccants all help us dry the air and contents of your home and restore humidity to their normal levels.
• Disinfecting- flood water contains bacteria, and its spread can be not only bothersome but also harmful. Issues like mold can cause effects to your health, making swift action extremely important as soon as outside water finds its way into your home. To help, we apply antimicrobial solutions to discourage its growth.

The team at SERVPRO of Skagit County is your best ally when storms fall upon your home. Call us at (360) 873-8744 and let us leave your home “Like it never even happened.”

How Can Attic Flooding Impact the Entire Anacortes Home?

6/30/2021 (Permalink)

When your attic is flooded, quick action is required. Our team is ready 24/7 365 days a year to tackle your emergency.

SERVPRO Restorers Have Extraction and Drying Tools to Help After Flooding in Anacortes Properties

Standing water is possible in attics after water penetration following severe weather events targeting Skagit County. When water pools in finished or unfinished attic spaces, specific extraction devices must reach these upper levels with their confined space restrictions. Some of these tools include:

• High-pressure pumps
• Truck-mount extractors
• Wet vacuums
• Light wands

Water Movement Through Unfinished Attic Space

Flood damage in Anacortes homes that originates in the attic can spread to the lower levels quickly with an unfinished attic. The only lines of defense for the rest of the house after water penetrates this storage area are insulation and the ceiling system. Leaks and drips from this ceiling indicate that a problem exists with the roof and attic.

Ceiling Repairs Necessary After Leaks

With a general contractor license, our professionals can provide several repair and reconstruction services for damaged homes after flooding. Roof repairs are common in attic flooding situations, but so are the ceiling systems that can absorb a damaging volume of water as it migrates to the lower levels of the property.

Whether it is cleaning up after flooding or rebuilding the house, you can trust in the fast and reliable response of our SERVPRO of Skagit County team to help. We are ready 24/7 at (360) 873-8744.

Is Floor Removal Challenging After Flood Damage in Mount Vernon?

4/25/2021 (Permalink)

Did recent flooding affect your living space? Call our certified SERVPRO team for effective water removal and remediation services 24/7!

SERVPRO Simplifies Water Clean Up Including Removal of Damaged Materials from Mount Vernon Homes

In the central suburbs of New York City, just north of the Bronx borough, lies Mount Vernon City. It has a population of slightly over 67,000 according to a 2019 estimate, with a density of 15,330 people per square mile. Initial settlements in the area started around 1664 when families arrived from Connecticut. It became a city in 1892.

It is one of the cities named in honor of the first President of the United States. The name Mount Vernon was adapted from Washington’s plantation in Virginia, where he was laid to rest. The neighboring Wakefield, located in the Bronx, is another city named after a different plantation where George Washington grew up. 

Tulip Festival and Tulip Festival Street Fair 

The Tulip Festival and Street Fair are two popular yearly events that have helped make the city popular beyond the region. The events started in 1983 and 1984 respectively and focus on various aspects, including art, photography, garden, clothing, and specialty foods, among other things. The Tulip Festival Street Fair hosts over 140 artisan vendors, food trucks, live music, and children’s activities in the historic downtown area of Mount Vernon. 

The fair started small, with just a small number of tables on the sidewalks but has grown to cover over half a mile with food trucks, non-profit group displays, and live entertainment. The festival is among the largest outdoor art events in the Northwest Washington area.

Where to Spend Quality Time in Mount Vernon

There is plenty to do in the city all year round, whether you are visiting or staying. Some of the distinguished things you can do include:

• Enjoy A Cup of Coffee

The Ristretto Coffee lounge & wine bar is a cozy, European-styled coffee lounge located in the heart of the downtown area. It is a nice place to relax, reading a book, or meeting with friends.

• Visit a Brewery 

Over the years, Mount Vernon has become a beer destination with the introduction of several brewpubs. The oldest is Skagit River Brewery, located in the downtown section. Others include Temperate Habits Brewing, Farmstrong Brewing, and North Sound Brewing.   

• Stroll Along the Riverwalk

One great way to explore the outdoors is to take a walk along the Skagit River. You can walk along any downtown street where the wide promenade offers clear riverfront views. 

How Does SERVPRO Help with Floor Removal After Flood Damage in Mount Vernon? 

Floor materials are highly vulnerable when properties flood because the water tends to accumulate on such horizontal surfaces. It is difficult to salvage materials such as carpets, pads, and engineered wood since they are damaged extensively by excessive moisture and contamination. 

Removing ruined materials after flood damage affects Mount Vernon properties is also challenging unless you have the right skills and equipment. SERVPRO provides such resources to guarantee better outcomes from the flood restoration exercise. Our technicians use pressure washers to clean off mud or sludge from the floors before embarking on the demolition process. For carpets and pads, we cut them into small square pieces for easier removal and disposal. Our services are helpful when dealing with:

• Biohazard remediation
• Sewage cleanup
• Basement flooding 

SERVPRO of Skagit County delivers professional flood damage management services. Call us at (360) 873-8744 when you need assistance.

Facing Flood Cleanup After a Storm

2/1/2021 (Permalink)

Excess water and flooding? Contact Team SERVPRO at (360) 873-8744 for flood damage cleanup today!

Flood Damage is No Match for SERVPRO – Let Us Handle the Cleanup in Anacortes!

Anacortes residents feeling overwhelmed with flooding after a storm have a friend in SERVPRO. We feature skilled technicians and all the right equipment to take on the cleanup and damage restoration for you. Once you call, you will see that We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster!

To get your home back on track, initiate cleanup by calling us to address your flood damage in Anacortes. We want all area residents to know the best steps to take should you be faced with an emergency after a storm:

• Place a call to SERVPRO to mobilize a team that we can send out to your property.
• Take safety precautions and beware of any downed power lines, broken glass, electrical wires, and more.
• If you can safely move around your property, take photographs of the damage for your insurance claim.
• Do not move through floodwaters, as this can spread potentially harmful contaminants from the flood zone into other areas of your home.

Once disaster strikes, it is nice to know that you have a team waiting to help with your flood damage cleanup needs. SERVPRO of Skagit County is available 24 hours a day for emergency service by calling (360) 873-8744.

Don’t Leave Flood Damage Unaddressed

1/24/2021 (Permalink)

Has your property been affected by flooding? Contact SERVPRO of Skagit County right away for flood damage clean up.

Your Mount Vernon Home Deserves Skilled Flood Damage Restoration After a Significant Storm

Mount Vernon is one of a pair of principal cities within the Washington Metropolitan Statistical area. Located within Skagit County, this city had a population of 31,743 when the 2010 United States Census was taken. Mount Vernon is also the county seat, and the downtown area is well-known for the popular Tulip Festival Street Fair that takes place annually. According to the New Rating Guide to Life in America’s Small Cities, Mount Vernon took the number one slot as the “Best Small City in America” in 1998.

Learning More About the Early Days of Mount Vernon, Washington

Several notable events helped to shape Mount Vernon, Washington, as it is known today, including:

• In 1870, Joseph Dwelley and Jasper Gates settled on the banks along the Skagit River.
• Harrison Clotheir arrived in the region in 1877 as a teacher and went into business with E. G. English, who was a former student. Later, they got recognized as pioneer businessmen and founders of the city. 
• In November of 1877, a post office got established where Clotheir was appointed the postmaster.
• On June 27, 1890, the very first general election took place in Mount Vernon for the selection of local officials.
• July 5, 1893, is when Mount Vernon became officially incorporated.
• In 1912, the population was listed at 2,600 people by the Sanborn Map Company. 
• Interstate 5 got built throughout downtown in 1969, which opened up farmlands and severed it from a portion of the residential district.

Looking at significant events, major flooding occurred in Mount Vernon in 1892 and 1894. These floods brought about construction for a sizable levee system here in 1894. Also surrounding these flooding events, homes were constructed on what is known as “the hill” to avoid further catastrophes.

Don’t Let Flooding Overtake Your Mount Vernon Home

When storms bring floodwater to your Mount Vernon property, contacting SERVPRO gets you the prompt action and skilled technicians you want on the job. We will make it “Like it never even happened,” so that your home gets back to normal faster.

Right after you call us for flood damage in Mount Vernon, we arrive quickly and begin muck-out services to jump-start the cleanup addressing things like:

• Mud
• Debris
• Silt
• Dirt
• Foliage

Our extraction efforts begin as soon as possible to inhibit the onset of potentially harmful mold and costly secondary damages. Natural flooding from a storm brings the potential of viral pathogens and bacteria. Some materials, including saturated drywall, must be removed entirely and replaced with our controlled demolition methods.

We select extraction tools depending on the severity of the situation, the solids or debris present, and location. Simultaneously, we set up dehumidifiers and air movers to help bring down the relative humidity and moisture within the home.

After a storm, never stress over flood damage cleanup. SERVPRO of Skagit County is here for 24/7 emergency service for extraction, drying, and restoration. Call (360) 873-8744, and we will have a crew deployed to your location within hours to get started.

Annual Holiday Parade & Tree Lighting in Mount Vernon

11/3/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is looking forward to Mount Vernons Annual Holiday Parade & Tree Lighting.

Mount Vernon Kicks Off the Holidays with Fun Festivities in Pine Square

Christmas is a magical time for adults and kids alike. Everyone enjoys getting out, seeing the lights, and doing some holiday shopping. The town of Mount Vernon knows how to start the holidays with pizzazz. It all starts on Sunday, December 6, 2020 at 5:00 PM . This family-friendly event includes:

• A tree-lighting ceremony
• Holiday Choir
• Festive lights
• Parade
• Visits with Santa

The Mount Vernon Downtown Association enjoys putting together this delightful event each year. It is a much-loved holiday tradition for the city. It all takes place in the downtown Pine Square. So grab your Santa hat and the entire family and head out for a night of festive frolicking. 

SERVPRO of Skagit County provides flooding restoration to the Mount Vernon community. Our elves work hard all year round to ensure any fire and water damage is mitigated professionally. We hope to see our customers at the Tree Lighting. We can be contacted at (360) 873-8744.

Does Flooding Always Need to Be Addressed Immediately?

10/30/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO can waterproof basements and encapsulate crawlspaces to protect against flood damage in Anacortes homes.

Flooding does not always destroy an Anacortes home, but it should get dealt with as soon as possible by competent professionals.

Flooding is always a situation that can potentially cost Anacortes homeowners a substantial amount of money and time in restoration when the situation gets mismanaged. Natural remedies for flood removal and drying are not thorough. The process needs to be more direct. As a leading flood restoration company in Skagit County, we have multiple strategies for determining water migration throughout the property and the most efficient approaches for removing floodwater and preparing the house for the drying and cleaning stages to follow.

Flood damage in Anacortes homes might not always be as recognizable and alarming as other property owners experience. With that thought in mind, it is tempting to consider allowing nature to resolve the situation instead of putting the money into professional restoration services. Unfortunately, you cannot always account for the speed or reliability of natural drying, and there are many areas of your house that flooding could impact without clear initial signs, including:

• Crawlspaces
• Attics
• Basements

How Does Crawlspace Flooding Get Resolved?

Often, homeowners are left with the impression that flooding happening away from the house's literal living space is manageable without professional intervention and experience. The crawlspace is primarily designed to keep the bulk of the property raised and protected from floodwater threats that could impact structural elements like supports, joists, and subflooring of the main level of your house. The development of microbial hazards in this area or the excessive moisture and saturation of structural elements like supports for your home present direct risks to the occupants in the main living space. Some of the ways to manage water removal, drying, and fungal threats include: 

• High-Pressure Pumps
• Wet Vacuums
• Dehumidification
• Air Movers
• Crawlspace Encapsulation

Encapsulation is one of the services that prevent moisture from becoming a recurring threat in the crawlspace. By covering exposed surfaces in plastic and installing water diversion and removal tools, homes can stay protected from the possibility of flooding.

What Makes Attic Flooding Difficult To Track?

Attic flooding often occurs in many ways, ranging from the slow deterioration of these building materials to allow water penetration to the more abrupt and unexpected structural compromise that can come from high winds, torrential rains, or even heavy snowfall. Despite how much water these vulnerabilities in the roof can allow into your home, you still might not immediately recognize a problem. You should remain diligent, especially during and shortly after powerful storm systems pass through the area, to inspect for:

• Damp Ceiling Materials
• Sagging Drywall
• Bloating/Swelling
• Visible Water Stains
• Leaking

Because many homeowners have not finished their attic space and converted it into more livable square footage for the property, you might not inspect this area of the house as often as you should. If you encounter any of these indicating signals, you should notify our SERVPRO team as soon as possible.

Does Basement Flooding Impact the Rest of the House?

One o the concerns with basement flooding is how many different ways that these situations can develop. Neglected and mismanaged water heaters in the basement level can malfunction and flood the area, but among the most common threats are drainage backups into this subterranean level and groundwater forcing its way through below-grade blockwork used as wall systems for the basement. When you do not recognize these situations right away, the most immediate concerns are the elevation of relative humidity throughout adjacent areas of the structure. Increased moisture content becomes a catalyst for the development and spread of mold colonies.

How Can Our Fast Response Help?

Because we can anticipate poor weather conditions that can result in natural flooding and structural damages for your home, we can mobilize quickly in these circumstances. When you discover water penetration into any part of your home, professionals must arrive promptly to begin mitigating these losses through repairs to the structure, extraction of standing water, and removing any threatened contents that might be in the way. Because we have more experience in flood restoration than homeowners, we can begin with the most pressing concerns that threaten your property.

As you can see, it is critical for you to act as soon as you suspect that flooding might occur. While it might not always be a forceful and direct loss incident, unaddressed flooding can create even more challenging circumstances like widespread mold and microbial growth. We have Water Restoration Technicians (WRT) on our SERVPRO of Skagit County roster ready to respond when you call (360) 873-8744.

What Can I Do When a Storm Causes Flood Damage?

9/1/2020 (Permalink)

The SERVPRO mobile app--ERP--Emergency READY Profile Plan--can help Sedro Woolley Homeowners Prepare for Flooding and its Detrimental Effects

SERVPRO Can Remediate the Flood Damage in Your Sedro Woolley Home!

Living in Washington State by Sedro Woolley can open your home to many heavy rainstorms. Unfortunately, if you live in an older building, this can cause some issues. Visualize an older roof, finally giving way under the weight of pooling water, and allowing it to leak into your home. You notice water begins to drip down into your bedroom from the ceiling.

Our flood damage remediation services for Sedro Wooley are expert-tier. SERVPRO technicians are well trained, and we use advanced technology to ensure the best service possible. If you need flood damage remediation, get in touch with us.

What Could I Do to Be More Prepared For a Flood?

If you know a severe rainstorm is on the way, you can do a few things to be prepared for the damage your home could face.

• Keep a list of emergency numbers
• Consider having spare water and food, in case of an extended power outage
• Consider calling for assistance, anticipate flooding risks

While not all rainstorms are severe or lead to electrical utility loss, it is always good to be prepared. Having bottled water and nonperishables handy can ensure you don’t need to rush to a grocery store when everyone else is. SERVPRO suggests contacting our office to set up a scheduled appointment for demonstrating our ERP Plan. The Emergency READY Profile Plan can help prevent, or at least mitigate, damages caused by intruding water, fires, or even mold.

What Can SERVPRO Techs Do Once They're Here?

Once our highly trained technicians get to your home, they can get to work right away. We can start by:

• Covering the hole on your roof with tarps, to try and stop water from getting inside
• Employ wet/dry vacuums to remove water from between your walls, your ceiling, and your bedroom floor
• Use air blasting tubes to get dry air into hard to reach places (injecti-dry advanced devices)

Here at SERVPRO, we are dedicated to helping you reduce excess moisture in your home and prevent mold damage. If you go through an unfortunate flood loss event, get the help your home deserves!

Get in touch with SERVPRO of Skagit County by calling (360) 873-8744. We're here for you!

What Is the Best Way to Get Water Out of My Home?

6/27/2020 (Permalink)

Certified SERVPRO Clean means floodwater removal is followed up by a disinfecting process to restore your Bremerton home to a safe place.

Bring in SERVPRO Restoration Teams to Clean and Dry Your Bremerton Home

Storms are common at this time of year in our Bremerton area. High winds are usually a limited threat, with the water flooding inside being the primary source of damage.

Why is Floodwater More Damaging than Water from A Split Washing Machine Hose?

Bremerton flood damage is worse for a home because it contains a sample of everything that the water crossed before it entered your home. SERVPRO technicians know that they have to spend additional time and resources cleaning up after the dirty water and removing any debris it carried inside.

How Much Cleaning Is Needed in My Home?

Floodwater can contain soil, animal waste, weed killer, and far more. Fortunately, our technicians have access to an extensive inventory of cleaning agents designed for every type of contaminant that might find its way into your home.

As part of cleaning, our technicians also have access to an extensive equipment inventory as well. Technicians use commercial-grade vacuums to remove contaminants from carpets before disposal and for linoleum and wood flooring to clear them for cleaning. How much and how long depends on the amount of contamination left behind by the floodwater.

What About Items Like Upholstered Furniture?

SERVPRO technicians can clean and dry those as well. They can use injectors to force a cleaning agent directly into a stain on a piece of furniture and avoid the risk of affecting the color of the rest of the fabric. Technicians also have access to devices which generate a heated, particle cloud of cleaning agent that can penetrate deeply into a sofa or recliner, attacking and neutralizing the contaminate. These devices are also very useful in eliminating odors.

To get the residential restoration process started here or on Bainbridge Island, call SERVPRO of Kitsap County today at (360) 373-1290. We are here for you.

How Does Cleanup Work After a Flood?

5/12/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO can mitigate your flood damaged home. No Mount Vernon home has to succumb to the struggles without any help.

After Flood Damage, You Can Trust SERVPRO to Restore Your Mount Vernon Home to Pre-Loss Condition

When your Mount Vernon house gets flooded, the water interacts with your belongings and building materials in a variety of ways. Your rugs become saturated as well as anything at the water level. This exposure means that careful measures must be taken to ensure that everything gets cleaned properly. SERVPRO has the techniques and training to address all aspects of your flooded interior adequately.

What Happens with My Contents During Cleanup?

Once we address your flood damage in Mount Vernon by extracting all of the standing water and removing any materials that have deteriorated, we begin cleaning the contents of your home. This is a challenging process, but our team has steps in place that allow us to address contamination, rusting, and other forms of degradation while working on salvaging whatever we can. Some of the steps that our skilled technicians use during the cleaning process include:

• Pre-treatment of any of the washable items. We sometimes use clean water on wet fabrics to work on removing mud and other debris.
• Separation of materials – salvageable vs. unsalvageable. Our team removes any items deemed unsalvageable and dispose of them so that we can decrease clutter and focus on items to be saved.
• Packout services, partial or complete. Often, cleaning salvageable contents in a designated area away from the flood zone expedites the restoration process.

We understand that each flood loss incident is unique. This is why we take the time to tailor a service plan to your needs. We take the time to assess every aspect of your home to ensure all moisture is adequately addressed and that full disinfection takes place. We get you back in your home and enjoying your daily routine, “Like it never even happened.”

To deploy a flood damage mitigation crew to your property, call SERVPRO of Skagit County 24/7 for emergency service at (360) 873-8744.

How can I Save my Home from Further Loss after Storm Flooding?

4/22/2020 (Permalink)

Flooding can quickly damage your home. Contact SERVPRO for water removal and remediation efforts.

Addressing Issues That Can Lead To Long-Term Problems after Flood Damage Incidents in Mount Vernon.

Flooding can happen any time from extreme weather events such as storms or even regular events such as torrential downpour. Each flood damage incident has the potential to cause long-term problems if not adequately addressed.

Keeping proper records

Although the restoration of flood damage incidents in Mount Vernon can cost much money, your insurance cover is likely to take care of the expenses. Failure to document the loss properly can lead to problems because the insurer might not cover the cost involved fully. Documentation should start before any restoration step, including water removal or repairs. Our SERVPRO technicians help document the loss by taking photos inside and outside the structure. We also take a full inventory of the contents and indicate which ones are salvageable and unsalvageable.

Contamination remnants 

Flooding incidents involving groundwater leave properties contaminated with biological agents and chemicals. There is a need to clean and sanitize all the affected areas to remove such contaminants. The use of disinfectants and other cleaning agents helps deal with most contaminants. However, some contaminants can remain hidden within materials posing health risks to your family. Our SERVPRO technicians have a deeper understanding of the decontamination process. Therefore, we know which materials can be sanitized through cleaning and which ones cannot. We remove all porous materials such as carpets, pad, drywall, and insulation directly affected by the floodwater since cleaning leaves them with traces of contamination. We clean hard surfaces such as tiles, concrete, or metal surfaces with disinfectants and anti-microbial agents to remove all contaminants.

Hidden moisture

Although most of the floodwater remains on the surface of materials, porous and semi-porous materials also absorb a significant percentage. Some of the water might also filter into cavities and other hidden locations. If left unaddressed, such water can cause several problems, including bad odor, deterioration of materials, and mold. Our SERVPRO technicians use advanced moisture detection equipment such as thermal cameras and moisture meters with probes to identify such hidden moisture pockets. We use advanced removal equipment such as drying mats, and structural cavity-drying equipment to remove such moisture, "Like it never even happened." 

Problems can linger long after a flooding incident. Call SERVPRO of Skagit County at (360) 873-8744 to help address them. We are available 24/7.

More about Mount Vernon.

Determining Content Loss After Floods in Mount Vernon Homes

2/12/2020 (Permalink)

Don't let flood damage take over your home. Call us day or night at (360) 873-8744.

Flood Damage Mitigation For Your Mount Vernon Home

Many homeowners see flooding situations and assume that their Mount Vernon property and its contents have suffered a total loss. While there are inevitably areas that cannot get restored or recovered with even the advanced techniques and products of our SERVPRO team, often properties are not total losses. Identifying the severity of the situation and the condition of the contents of your house requires the experience and training of our content management technicians.

While many structural concerns might exist after flood damage in Mount Vernon homes, saturated or potentially contaminated contents can get restored with the appropriate response. Assessing the condition of these items and personal belongings is often the responsibility of our competent project manager. During the scoping of the job, it can get determined which items must get disposed of, which can get restored on-site, and which must get focused cleaning and deodorization at our nearby facility.

Disposal 

We are very conscious of items and belongings that have become exposed to hazardous or damaging conditions after a flood. Many materials like drywall must get removed, and similarly, contents that are sensitive to moisture exposure often become too severely damaged to preserve.

On-Site Cleaning

One of the most cost-effective solutions for content management is the ability to clean, deodorize, and dry contents on-site rather than packing them up and moving them to our SERVPRO warehouse. Once cleaning and restoration have occurred, the items can get safely stored in an unaffected area of the property until mitigation and restoration in the flooded portions of your residence completes.

Pack-Out / Off-Site Cleaning

There are other scenarios where there is no feasible solution on-site for the drying, cleaning, or odor removal of damaged possessions. With residues and contaminants, we can disinfect items and also utilize advanced tools for complete off-site cleaning before safely storing them to await return to your house.

Content management is an essential aspect of flood recovery, as many homeowners believe that a disaster can irreparably affect all of the belongings in their house. Our SERVPRO of Skagit County team can work quickly to protect what matters most after a flood. Give us a call today at (360) 873-8744.

Want to know more about Mount Vernon?

We Are The Team You Can Trust In Mount Vernon After A Flood

1/21/2020 (Permalink)

This flooded basement came after a storm and the water was ankle deep, we arrived right away to start the restoration process.

Fast Extraction Strategies for Flooded Mount Vernon Homes

When flooding occurs in a Mount Vernon home, there is a finite time before irreparable damage happens to exposed materials and contents. Addressing these concerns with a prompt response and effective water removal and drying strategies is the foundation of our SERVPRO water restoration process. This approach is the same strategy we utilize when flooding has occurred as well.

It is undeniable how quickly flood damage in Mount Vernon residences can get out of control without direct intervention from qualified personnel like our water restorers. While one of the initial needs of your house involves board up and tarping from our in-house team of general contractors, how the mitigation of your property gets handled is also a top concern. While emergency construction services and temporary fencing get established, our restoration technicians work on containment and mitigation strategies.

As you might expect, water removal is one of the most vital elements of flood damage recovery. Direct exposure to flooring, trim, wallboard and other materials can lead to structural compromise. We can deploy practical extraction tools like our electric sump pumps, truck-mount extractors, and trash pumps for any standing water that might also contain solids and debris.

Specialty water removal tools are also essential to restore many of the more challenging materials that water can affect after clean water flooding in your house. Carpets can quickly absorb standing water to the subflooring and padding materials, making their drying a vital task to protect underlayment and supports like the plywood and 2x6 framework. We have weighted extractors that utilize the natural weight of our SERVPRO technicians to force moisture to the surface for collection by an onboard powerful vacuum system.

Drying your home might also be a vital component to making flood losses “Like it never even happened,” but that cannot happen until water removal and surface water hurdles have gotten overcome. With premier equipment and experienced technicians, our SERVPRO of Skagit County team can help. You can reach our emergency response team and licensed general contractors 24/7 by calling (360) 873-8744.

See more about Mount Vernon.

How To Survive Severe Storms

12/14/2018 (Permalink)

What to do during a severe storms

• If you are indoors, stay away from windows, doors and fireplaces.
• You may want to go to the sheltered area that you and your family chose for your emergency plan.
• If you are advised by officials to evacuate, do so. Take your emergency kit with you.
• You can use a cellular telephone during a severe storm, but it's not safe to use a land-line telephone.
• Never go out in a boat during a storm. If you are on the water and you see bad weather approaching, head for shore immediately. Always check the marine forecast before leaving for a day of boating and listen to weather reports during your cruise.
• If you are in a car, stop the car away from trees or power lines that might fall on you). Stay there.

What to do during

Blizzards

• When a winter storm hits, stay indoors. If you must go outside, dress for the weather. Outer clothing should be tightly woven and water-repellent. The jacket should have a hood. Wear mittens - they are warmer than gloves - and a hat, as large portion of body heat is lost through the head.
• In wide-open areas, visibility can be virtually zero during heavy blowing snow or a blizzard. You can easily lose your way. If a blizzard strikes, do not try to walk to another building unless there is a rope to guide you or something you can follow.
• If you must travel during a winter storm, do so during the day and let someone know your route and arrival time.
• If your car gets stuck in a blizzard or snowstorm, remain calm and stay in your car. Allow fresh air in your car by opening the window slightly on the sheltered side - away from the wind. You can run the car engine about 10 minutes every half-hour if the exhaust system is working well. Beware of exhaust fumes and check the exhaust pipe periodically to make sure it is not blocked with snow. Remember: you can't smell potentially fatal carbon monoxide fumes.
• To keep your hands and feet warm, exercise them periodically. In general, it is a good idea to keep moving to avoid falling asleep. If you do try to shovel the snow from around your car, avoid overexerting yourself.
• Overexertion in the bitter cold can cause death as a result of sweating or a heart attack.
• Keep watch for traffic or searchers.

Hail

• Take cover when hail begins to fall. Do not go out to cover plants, cars or garden furniture or to rescue animals. Hail comes down at great speed, especially when accompanied by high winds. Although no one in Canada has ever been killed by hail, people have been seriously injured by it.
• When a hailstorm hits, stay indoors, and keep yourself and your pets away from windows, glass doors and skylights which can shatter if hit by hailstones. Avoid using the telephone during a storm, and do not touch metal objects like stoves, radiators, metal pipes, and sinks.
• When a hailstorm hits, find shelter and avoid underpasses or any low lying areas that may flood.

Ice storms

• Ice from freezing rain accumulates on branches, power lines and buildings. If you must go outside when a significant amount of ice has accumulated, pay attention to branches or wires that could break due to the weight of the ice and fall on you. Ice sheets could also do the same.
• Never touch power lines. A hanging power line could be charged (live) and you would run the risk of electrocution. Remember also that ice, branches or power lines can continue to break and fall for several hours after the end of the precipitation.
• When freezing rain is forecast, avoid driving. Even a small amount of freezing rain can make roads extremely slippery. Wait several hours after freezing rain ends so that road maintenance crews have enough time to spread sand or salt on icy roads.
• Rapid onsets of freezing rain combined with the risks of blizzards increase the chances for extreme hypothermia. If you live on a farm, move livestock promptly to shelter where feed is available. Forage is often temporarily inaccessible during and immediately after ice storms. Animal reactions to ice storms are similar to that of blizzards.

Lightning

• Always take shelter during a lightning storm.
• There is no safe place outside during a thunderstorm. Safe shelter can be found either in an enclosed building or a hard-topped vehicle.
• If you can see lightning or hear thunder, you are in danger of being hit. Seek shelter immediately.
• Wait 30 minutes after the last lightning strike in a severe storm before venturing outside again.
• Do not ride bicycles, motorcycles, tractors, or golf carts. These will not protect you from a lightning strike.

Thunderstorms

• During thunderstorms, you should also stay away from items that conduct electricity, such as corded telephones, appliances, sinks, bathtubs, radiators and metal pipes.

Floodwater After A Disaster Or Storm

12/13/2018 (Permalink)

Don’t drive in flooded areas — turn around, don’t drown!

Floodwater can pose a drowning risk for everyone— regardless of their ability to swim. Swiftly moving shallow water can be deadly, and even shallow standing water can be dangerous for small children.

• Always follow warnings about flooded roads.
• Don’t drive in flooded areas—cars or other vehicles won’t protect you from floodwaters. They can be swept away or may stall in moving water.

Stay out of floodwater.

Floodwaters contain many things that may harm health. We don’t know exactly what is in floodwater at any given point in time. Floodwater can contain:

• Downed power lines
• Human and livestock waste
• Household, medical, and industrial hazardous waste (chemical, biological, and radiological)
• Coal ash waste that can contain carcinogenic compounds such as arsenic, chromium, and mercury
• Other contaminants that can lead to illness
• Physical objects such as lumber, vehicles, and debris
• Wild or stray animals such as rodents and snakes

Exposure to contaminated floodwater can cause:

• Wound infections
• Skin rash
• Gastrointestinal illness
• Tetanus
• Leptospirosis (not common)

It is important to protect yourself from exposure to floodwater regardless of the source of contamination. The best way to protect yourself is to stay out of the water.

If you come in contact with floodwater:

• Wash the area with soap and clean water as soon as possible. If you don’t have soap or water, use alcohol-based wipes or sanitizer.
• Take care of wounds and seek medical attention if necessary.
• Wash clothes contaminated with flood or sewage water in hot water and detergent before reusing them.

If you must enter floodwater, wear rubber boots, rubber gloves, and goggles.

Prevent injuries.

Floodwater may contain sharp objects, such as glass or metal fragments, that can cause injury and lead to infection. Prompt first aid can help heal small wounds and prevent infection.

If you receive a puncture wound or a wound contaminated with feces, soil, or saliva, have a health care professional determine whether a tetanus booster is necessary based on individual records.

For more information, visit: Emergency Wound Care After a Natural Disaster

Prevent infection of open wounds and rashes.

Open wounds and rashes exposed to floodwater can become infected. Vibrios, for example, are naturally occurring bacteria that live in certain coastal waters and can cause skin infections when an open wound is exposed to them. This can happen during floods. To protect yourself and your family:

• Avoid exposure to floodwater if you have an open wound.
• Cover clean, open wounds with a waterproof bandage to reduce chance of infection.
• Keep open wounds as clean as possible by washing well with soap and clean water.
• If a wound develops redness, swelling, or oozing, seek immediate medical attention.

Seek medical attention as soon as possible if:

• There is a foreign object (soil, wood, metal, or other objects) embedded in the wound;
• The wound is at special risk of infection (such as a dog bite or a puncture by a dirty object);
• An old wound shows signs of becoming infected (increased pain and soreness, swelling, redness, draining, or you develop a fever).

For more information, visit: Emergency Wound Care After a Natural Disaster

Protect yourself and your loved ones from diarrheal diseases.

Be aware that floodwater may contain sewage, and eating or drinking anything contaminated by floodwater can cause diarrheal disease (such as E. coli or Salmonella infection). To protect yourself and your family:

• Wash your hands after contact with floodwater. Also be sure to wash children’s hands with soap and water often and always before meals.
• Do not allow children to play in floodwater areas.
• Do not allow children to play with toys that have been contaminated by floodwater and have not been disinfected.
• Do not bathe in water that may be contaminated with sewage or toxic chemicals. This includes rivers, streams, or lakes that are contaminated by floodwater.

For more information, visit:

• Personal Hygiene and Handwashing After a Disaster or Emergency
• Handwashing, Hygiene, and Diapering
• Cleaning and Sanitizing with Bleach
• CDC Floodwaters or Standing Waters

Protect yourself from animal and insect bites.

Floodwater can displace animals, insects, and reptiles. To protect yourself and your family, be alert and avoid contact.

For more information, visit: Protect Yourself from Animal- and Insect-Related Hazards After a Disaster

Be aware of possible chemicals in floodwater.

Floods can cause containers of chemicals to move from their normal storage spots.

• Don’t attempt to move propane tanks you might find— they’re dangerous and can cause a fire or explosion. If you find any, contact the police, fire department, or your State Fire Marshal’s office immediately.
• Be extremely careful when removing car batteries. Even if they are in floodwater, car batteries may still have an electrical charge. Use insulated gloves and avoid coming in contact with any acid that may have spilled from the damaged car battery.

For more information, visit:

• Protect Yourself From Chemicals Released During a Natural Disaster
• Chemical Emergencies

Avoid electrical hazards inside or outside your home.

After a hurricane, flood or other natural disaster you need to be careful to avoid electrical hazards both in your home and elsewhere.

• Shut off electrical power and natural gas or propane tanks in your home to avoid fire, electrocution, or explosions.
• NEVER touch a fallen power line. Call the power company to report fallen power lines. Avoid contact with overhead power lines during cleanup and other activities.
• Do not drive through standing water if downed power lines are in the water.
• If you believe someone has been electrocuted, call or have someone else call 911 or emergency medical help.

For more information, visit: Protect Yourself and Others From Electrical Hazards After a Disaster

https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/floods/floodsafety.html

Damaging Winds Basics

12/4/2018 (Permalink)

What are damaging winds?Damaging winds are often called “straight-line” winds to differentiate the damage they cause from tornado damage. Strong thunderstorm winds can come from a number of different processes. Most thunderstorm winds that cause damage at the ground are a result of outflow generated by a thunderstorm downdraft. Damaging winds are classified as those exceeding 50-60 mph.Are damaging winds really a big deal?Damage from severe thunderstorm winds account for half of all severe reports in the lower 48 states and is more common than damage from tornadoes. Wind speeds can reach up to 100 mph and can produce a damage path extending for hundreds of miles.Who is at risk from damaging winds?Since most thunderstorms produce some straight-line winds as a result of outflow generated by the thunderstorm downdraft, anyone living in thunderstorm-prone areas of the world is at risk for experiencing this hazard.

People living in mobile homes are especially at risk for injury and death. Even anchored mobile homes can be seriously damaged when winds gust over 80 mph.