Hurricane Season is Upon Us

11/22/2024 (Permalink)

Rain or shine, we are ready to assist you when you are in need! Call us 24 hours a day, 7 days a week!

I’m sure everyone has already noticed, but it's Hurricane season, and that can mean hazardous weather conditions in your area. Even if you are not living on the coast, you can still be affected by Hurricane season, as we have all seen recently with the devastating effects of several hurricanes this fall. Hurricanes can produce strong winds, storm surge flooding, and heavy rainfall that can lead to inland flooding and tornadoes. Another serious risk is falling trees from winds and rain. All of these things can cause serious damage to your property. At SERVPRO, we are ready for any size disaster, and we are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call us at 404-378-9998 if you are impacted by severe weather, and we will be ready to assist you!

Why Inspecting Your Roof Prior to a Storm Event Is Important

11/2/2022 (Permalink)

Loose shingles may never be seen to the naked eye. It may be time for an inspection.

As we saw with Hurricane Ian recently, and other lesser storms, these events come on in a hurry with very little warning. While it is an impossible ask to expect homeowners to efficiently prepare on spot when a storm is headed your way, there are several preventative measures you can take to minimize the damage to your home, which ultimately saves you from situations of being above your policy limits. 

Three basic ways to ensure you are taking the proper steps before a storm hits your hometown:

• Remove Any Dead Wood: If you have an extendable, electric/gas saw, you will want to begin by trimming any limbs away from the structure of your home. Hire a professional to take care of the larger limbs and trees. This of course reduces the risk of trees and heavy limbs from damaging your home from the heavy winds of a storm.
• Secure All Outdoor Items: it is always a good measure to remove all free-standing, moveable objects from your home, such as chairs, picnic tables, umbrellas, and other related items and secure these items away from the conditions of the storm. Taking this step helps reduce the risk of objects being blown into the windows of your homes causing water damage from the heavy rain and winds.
• Inspect Your Roof Periodically: A brand new roof should be able to withstand the threats of most weather events; however, in the likely event that you do not have a brand-new roof, it is important to know that a roof with a minimum age of 5+ years needs to be inspected every so often. Your trusted professionals will check for loose shingles, nails, and of course the sheathing of your roof. It is better to go ahead and address these types of items before the storm blows through to ensure the structure, and specifically your roof, is in its strongest state. 

Call SERVPRO of Decatur and ask us about storm damage

7/20/2022 (Permalink)

Summertime has the perfect conditions for strong storms to cause major damage in our area. The aftermath of a severe thunderstorm can cause wind damage, roof damage, flooded basements, and rainwater damage throughout the home or business.  

It is important for homeowners and business owners alike to act quickly since water damage requires immediate attention to prevent further damage like mold from spreading.  

When it comes to dealing with storm damage, SERVPRO of Decatur is a local business with the ability to pull resources from the other 2000 SERVPROs around the country. Our technicians undergo extensive training and are certified to deal with any type of water damage, no matter how big or small.

We are able to handle any sized disaster and make it “Like it Never Even Happened.” Call us at 404-378-9998.

Rainwater and flooding in Decatur

7/20/2022 (Permalink)

We have been dealing with a lot of storms and rain in Decatur these past few weeks. Due to the amount of rainwater, some homeowners have noticed new damage around their homes. Roof leaks can damage the attic, causing wet insulation to mold without you even noticing it until it is too late and there is major mold damage throughout the attic. Another common occurrence is sump pump failure, causing overflows and damage to basements, crawlspaces, etc.  

At SERVPRO of Decatur, we understand how stressful this situation can be for a homeowner, especially one that has never dealt with water damage before. When we talk to someone that does not know where to turn, we reassure them that our experts know how to handle these types of disasters, because they undergo extensive training and certifications. With more than 20 years in the business, we have the necessary equipment, crews, and experience to handle any size disaster. 

Call SERVPRO of Decatur at 404-378-9998. We will fix your property to its preloss condition.

SERVPRO of Decatur is a Large Loss Franchise

7/7/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO’s of Decatur is certified as a SERVPRO, Inc. Large Loss Provider! As the top choice in the cleanup and restoration industry, our trusted managers and technicians can help homeowners and business owners every step of the way during a fire or water emergency, and make the process as smooth as possible.

The Disaster Recovery Team can provide help whether you're dealing with a tornado, hurricane, blizzard, or flood. The SERVPRO System has a network of strategically positioned storm teams on standby should a disaster strike in your area. Our crews are available 24 hours a day and 365 days a year and are prepared for the unpredictable. With the ability to mobilize local command centers, along with the resources of more than 2,000 Franchises nationwide, no disaster is too big. We are ready for your phone call! 

At SERVPRO of Decatur, the difference is our ability to dispatch trained production professionals and cut costs through strategic placement. Get help from the professionals; call SERVPRO of Decatur at 404-378-9998!

SERVPRO of Decatur offers 24/7 Storm Services

7/1/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Decatur provides 24-hour emergency services. If you have experienced any type of storm damage on your home, you can call SERVPRO of Decatur and inquiry what to do next.

Here are some things we can do to help with damaged contents

• Wet Cleaning: This is what we use for removing moderate to heavy residues.
• Dry Cleaning: This method is used for cleaning light residues or to preclean prior to cleaning.
• Spray and Wipe: This is for items that are not meant to be cleaned.
• Abrasive Cleaning: This is used to remove heavy dirt.
• Foam Cleaning: this is mainly used for upholstery fabrics
• Immersion Cleaning: This is used by submerging items in a particular cleaning solution.

In case of extensive damage, we offer move-outs and pack-outs, and many other services.

Call us today at 404-378-9998.

Hurricane Safety

6/30/2022 (Permalink)

If your family has a Disaster Preparedness Plan in place, make sure it contains a plan for Hurricanes. Although they are not very common in Georgia, some of the damage can still affect certain areas of the state.

With hurricanes, in general, the path can be forecast a few days in advance, giving time for homeowners to prepare.

Here are some tips from the National Safety Council

• You should secure loose items outdoors, like furniture and tools.
• Discuss with the family an evacuation plan, meeting point, and how to get there
• If you live in a mobile home, make arrangements to shelter in a sturdier structure.
• Have a radio handy to listen for warnings.

As always, SERVPRO of Decatur is here to help you with any storm damage. We are available 24/7 at 404-378-9998.

Commercial Storm Damage

11/1/2021 (Permalink)

Inclement weather is an unpredictable force and has been getting stronger and more frequently in recent years. Mother nature can have a devastating effect on a business in Decatur. Buildings can sustain wind damage, rainwater damage from roof leaks, flooding, etc.

Every minute a business owner has to close to deal with storm damage is a minute of lost revenue and productivity. That is why SERVPRO of Decatur has the necessary equipment, technicians, and resources to help business owners and property managers deal with inclement weather disasters.

We are here to assist you with any damages that might arise

• Small Office Buildings
• Large Office/High-Rise Office Buildings
• Apartment Buildings
• Restaurants
• Hotel/Motels
• Small Retail Stores
• Large Retail/Big-Box Stores
• High-Rise Residential
• Manufacturing & Industrial
• Government/Military

Have Questions? Call SERVPRO of Decatur Today – (404) 378-9998

Sump pumps and rainwater damage

7/23/2021 (Permalink)

Picture Source: A diagram of a centrifugal sump pump © 2009 HOWSTUFFWORKS.COM

We have had a fair amount of rain these last couple of weeks here in Decatur, and we have received several calls from homeowners dealing with flooded basements and crawl spaces. In some of those cases, the reason why their homes had sustain water damage was that the sump pump had not been working.

When was the last you inspected your sump pump? Most manufacturers recommend inspecting the unit every couple of months, especially if there is a big storm or heavy rain coming, to make sure the sump pump is working properly.

A sump pump is a device installed in the lowest part of a basement or crawlspace to help prevent this space from flooding and keep it as dry as possible, by keeping the water away from the structure.  

SERVPRO of Decatur has the experience, qualifications, and necessary knowledge to help homeowners deal with this type of water damage.

Give us a call at 404-378-9998

• 24 Hour Emergency Service
• Faster to Any Size Disaster
• Highly Trained Water Damage Restoration Specialists
• Locally Owned and Operated

Source: How Stuff Works

Hurricane Dangers This Season

7/23/2021 (Permalink)

According to the National Hurricane Center (NHC), we will have an above-average 2021 hurricane season, which started June 1^st and runs through November 30^th.

The updated National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) recently updated the definition of the “average season” using new data. Now, an average season has 7 hurricanes and 14 named storms. It is estimated that in 2021 we will have 7-9 hurricanes (2-4 that could be categorized as 3 or higher), and 15 to 18 named storms.   

Sadly, hurricanes not only affect coastal areas but can cause severe damage to properties more than 100 miles inland. Storm surge, heavy rainfall, inland flooding, landslides, high winds, and tornadoes can cause catastrophic damage.

If you have not done so, take to your family and come up with an evacuation and emergency plan. If your home or business has suffered storm damage, call the experts at SERVPRO of Decatur. Our certified technicians will help you throughout the mitigation and reconstruction process and make it “Like it never even happened.”

Call SERVPRO of Decatur at 404-378-9998

Do you think you may have mold after a severe storm?

7/8/2021 (Permalink)

It’s been raining a lot in Decatur these past few weeks. Those are some ideal conditions where mold can spread quickly since it requires moisture and high temperatures to spread throughout our homes. If you can see something resembling mold…it is probably mold.

Prevention and maintenance are key to keep your attic mold-free. Call a professional roofing company to inspect your roof and check for leaks. A small leak over a long period of time can cause extensive damage to your home. 

Inspect your attic regularly and make sure vents are not blocked by boxes, crates, critters, or insulation. If your HVAC system is in your attic, check to see if there are any leaks or excessive moisture around the unit (pay close attention to the condensate pan and drain line.) Make sure ducts from the kitchen or bathrooms run to the exterior of your home and not just the attic.

Have a Mold Problem? Call Us Today at 404-378-9998. We specialize in water and mold damage restoration, with advanced training in restoration techniques and the experience and specialized equipment to quickly restore your property.

Do you know the difference between a tornado watch and a tornado warning?

7/7/2021 (Permalink)

We’ve had an incredibly stormy summer around Decatur. Do you know what it means to be under a tornado watch? Do you know the difference between a tornado warning and a tornado watch? Tornadoes are arguably nature's most violent storms and it is important to be knowledgeable about these differences.

The National Weather Service says that an easy way to remember the difference is Tornado Watch- Be Prepared! Tornado Warning- TAKE ACTION!

A Tornado Watch is issued by the Storm Prediction Center (NOAA) https://www.spc.noaa.gov/  and it means that tornadoes are possible in our area. A Tornado Warning means that a tornado has been sighted, and there is imminent danger to your life and your home. Go to an interior room, with no windows, on the lowest level of your home. If you live in a mobile home, seek shelter in a building.  Make sure you have a way to get real-time warnings (TV, radio, weather app, Wireless Emergency Alert, etc.)

It is important to remember that just because nothing happened last time there was a tornado warning or watch in your area does not mean it cannot happen now. Tornadoes can cause massive destruction within seconds, so always, always, always err on the side of caution.

If you have storm damage, please do not hesitate to contact SERVPRO of Decatur at 404-378-9998.

Source: https://www.weather.gov/safety/tornado-ww

https://www.forbes.com/sites/marshallshepherd/2018/08/02/the-good-bad-and-ugly-of-responses-to-a-tornado-warning-in-georgia/#354e119a612a

Tips to protect your basement from storm damage and flooding

7/6/2021 (Permalink)

According to the Insurance Journal, weather incidents account for more than half of all homeowners’ insurance claims.

Weather incidents account for more than half of all homeowners’ insurance claims according to the Insurance Journal. If you do not want your newly finished basement to become an indoor pool after a bad storm… follow these tips. 

• Prevention and maintenance is key
  • Clean the gutters regularly. If you cannot do that safely, hire a professional company to help you with this task.
  • Invest in a sump pump.
  • Try to keep as much of the rainwater away from your home. Look at the grade of your backyard and make sure it slopes away from your home and not towards your basement).
  • Repair any visible cracks in the walls or floors.
  • Review your insurance policy and check for flood insurance. Only 5% of homeowners in the US have flood insurance.
  • Buy flood sensors or ask your security company about them. New technology allows you to monitor your basement from your phone.

Flooded basement due to heavy rain

11/5/2020 (Permalink)

Basement floods are very common after a heavy rainstorm and are one of the first places to sustain damage. We know how stressful it can be for you to find your finished (or unfinished) basements with standing murky water and your furniture and contents wet.

Call a restoration company with the necessary experience to deal with extensive water damage like SERVPRO of Decatur. We can help homeowners 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. One of our Flood Managers will inspect the damage using state of the art equipment, prepare and estimate, and our IICRC certified technicians will immediately start the drying process. Our number one goals is to minimize any disruption to your life and make it “Like it never even happened.”

For all your water restoration needs, call SERVPRO of Decatur at 404-378-9998 and schedule an appointment.

Signs Your Roof Has Storm Damage

7/31/2020 (Permalink)

Time, heavy rains, strong winds and heat are some of the things that can damage your roof and cause major damage to your house.  

If you suspect your roof was damaged after a storm, inspect it from the outside and the inside. Look for shingles around the yard. We recommend homeowners to contact a professional roofer to go out and inspect the roof for cracked, curled or missing shingles. Inspect gutters for leaks and clogs and make sure the drip edge has not been damaged.

Look for stains and wet spots on the ceiling and walls, bubbling or flaking paint. If you have an attic, inspect it for wet insulation, mold, or any wet areas.

Contact Us Anytime

The team at SERVPRO of Decatur has the required training and experience in water damage restorations, fire damage restoration, mold remediation, and storm cleanup- We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week- 404-378-9998. 

Ways to Prevent Storm Damage to Your Home

7/30/2020 (Permalink)

Summer storms around Decatur can be severe. There are a few things you can do around the house before a storm hits to minimize the damages.

Inspect Roof Regularly

New roofs should not present a lot of problems for homeowners, but if the roof is five to ten years old, it would be a good idea to inspect it for loose shingles, sheathing and nails. If you notice any of these problems, fix them right away to protect your property from sever storms.

Remove Dead Trees

Do not wait until it is too late to remove dead trees around your property. The roots of a dead tree are not strong, making it easier for it to topple over after a strong storm.  Trim limbs and dead wood so there is less of a chance of them falling and damaging the roof, windows, siding, vehicles, etc.

Secure Outdoor Furniture

Secure grills, tables, umbrellas, and other furniture to prevent damaging your property.

For storm damage cleanup, call SERVPRO of Decatur at 404-378-9998

Are you prepared to keep your family safe during a Tornado?

7/9/2020 (Permalink)

Approximately 800 tornadoes hit the United States every year. F-4 or F-5 tornadoes could cause billion of dollars in damages. Meteorologists can predict the right conditions for a tornado to form in the area a day or two in advance, but that is not always the case. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration there are four things needed for a tornado to form- moisture, instability, lift and wind shear. 

During bad weather, tune in to NOAA radio or your local news channel to see the latest weather updates. Stay away from windows. There are old myths that recommended opening all the windows in the home so that the wind could circulate and that it would help equalize the pressure, but that is what they are…myths. The best thing you can do during a tornado warning is go to your basement, storm safe, or an interior room with no windows. 

2020 Hurricane Season Is Here

7/8/2020 (Permalink)

The 2020 hurricane season officially began on June 1^st. NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center predicts a busy Atlantic hurricane season. It says we can expect anywhere from 13-19 named storms, and of those 6 to 10 can turn into hurricanes in 2020.

Click here to see what the Red Cross recommends to have in a survival kit.

Our Decatur crews specialize in storm damage and are highly trained. We use state of the art equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition. Since we are located in Decatur, we are able to respond faster to any size disaster. Another advantage of working with us is that we have access to equipment and personnel from a network of more than 1,700 Franchises across America and we are ready to act at a moment’s notice. If you ever need our help, call us at 404-378-9998.

Are you ready for severe weather?

7/7/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Decatur- 404-378-9998

After a severe storm passes through Decatur, the damage to your home could range from non-existent to extensive.  Before venturing outside to inspect the damage, make sure it is safe to do so.

Wait at least 30 minutes after the storm has passed to go outside. Watch for downed power lines, trees, broken glass or any other sharp objects. If you smell gas, shut off the main gas line immediately, open doors and windows and step outside. Only go to the roof if you believe it is necessary; if not, call a professional company to do it for you.

Call a trusted restoration company like SERVPRO of Decatur to help you with any board up or tarps needed. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

It is always a good idea to have a basic disaster supplies kit handy and always be prepared for the unexpected next time a big storm hit our area

• Food- A minimum of three-day supply of non-perishable items
• Water- one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days
• National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio
• Flashlights
• First aid kit
• Fully charged cellphone (backup charger)

You can download the recommended supplies list here

Dealing with wind and water damage after a storm

11/11/2019 (Permalink)

Old brown shingles with mold

Powerful storms can occur at any time here in Decatur and cause severe damage your home or business. Strong winds can damage your roof, heavy downpours can cause massive flooding, and trees can come toppling down.

Our highly trained storm damage specialists will perform a thorough inspection of your home or business using our state-of-the-art software. We will provide validation and documentation to show that the structure is completely dry, and the mitigation process is complete. We will clean and disinfect the affected areas with antibacterial, and antifungal agents (if needed). Rest assure that will make it “Like it never even happened.”

No job is too big for SERVPRO’s Disaster Recovery Team. For help restoring your commercial or residential property after a water loss or other disaster, call SERVPRO of Decatur at 404-378-9998.

Clients for the Commercial Large Loss program include the following:

• The Hospitality Industry
• Property Managers
• Universities and Schools
• Municipalities

The Dangers of Toppled Trees in Decatur

8/2/2019 (Permalink)

When people visit our beautiful city, they rave about all the big beautiful trees. They are indeed gorgeous, but they can also cause major damage to our Decatur homes. After a strong storm, we get many calls from homeowners dealing with toppled trees in their yards and homes.

Ground saturation is mostly to blame. A rainy Georgia summer can leave the ground extremely saturated. The roots of the trees are weakened and are not strong enough to support their massive weight, and wind gusts can cause them to come crashing down on homes and vehicles.

Homeowners should inspect their yards and remove any damaged or rotten trees to prevent property damage, but even perfectly healthy trees can be uprooted during a storm.

If a tree has fallen and damaged your property, call a restoration company with the experience, resources and skills to handle any size disaster. Call SERVPRO of Decatur rapid response crew at 404-378-9998. 

What to do after a storm damages your home

8/1/2019 (Permalink)

Storm damage can happen at any time and it can be very difficult for homeowners to know what to do afterwards.

Your safety should be your number one priority. Only enter your home if it is safe to do so. Make sure there are no downed power lines, gas leaks, and that the structure of your home is sound. Wear appropriate shoes to avoid any sort of injuries from broken glass, exposed nails, etc.

Take pictures (in case you might need it for insurance purposes later) and create a list of what has been damaged. Contact your insurance agent and tell them what happened. Remember that most insurance policies limit the time to file a claim.

Call a restoration company like SERVPRO of Decatur to inspect the damage and provide an estimate to get your home to its pre-damaged condition. Water damage from flooding or a leaky roof can damage walls, floors, and contents inside your home.

If you have suffered from storm damage, contact the specialists at SERVPRO of Decatur today to help- 404-378-9998

Are you ready for a busy tornado season?

7/12/2019 (Permalink)

Experts say that tornado season could be very active this year in Georgia. Tornadoes are really unpredictable and sometimes they touchdown without much warning since it is very difficult to forecast, sometimes giving people less than 15 minutes to take shelter between the warning and the actual touchdown. Tornadoes kill an average of 60 people every year in America according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

Tornadoes appear as funnel-shaped rotating clouds extending from the closed base to the ground. On average, they last less than ten minutes and they tend to move from southwest to northeast (but not always).

The National Weather Service alert system

               Tornado Watch- Be Prepared!

               Tornado Warning- Take Action!

If your home or business has been affected by a storm, please don't hesitate to contact SERVPRO of Decatur at 404-378-9998!

SERVPRO of Decatur is ready for any size disaster after a storm

7/11/2019 (Permalink)

After a storm, it is hard to know where to start assessing the damage to your home or business.

That is why you need to rely on a trusted restoration company with years of experience in the business.

Did you know that 50% of businesses are unable to reopen or recover after suffering a disaster? If you do not want to be part of that statistic, have an emergency plan in place.

At SERVPRO of Decatur we have the knowledge, experience and trained professionals to help with any size disaster and save you time and money in the process.  We help business owners with small cleanups or major water loss jobs. We strive to make any storm disaster “Like it never even happened.”

Do not let a storm take advantage of you, call SERVPRO of Decatur today to learn more about our services 404-378-9998

SERVPRO of Decatur… Ready for Any Size Disaster

7/10/2019 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Decatur- 404-378-9998

When you need assistant with a large-scale water damage emergency, you know you can call SERVPRO of Decatur because we are a certified SERVPRO, Inc. Large Loss Response Team provider (LLRT). We can handle losses of any size, from a small water leak in the breakroom to multi-story flooding in your commercial building. Each job is supervised by a highly trained commercial operations manager, and they will keep the Property Manager, tenants, and owners of the process every step of the way. At the end of the project you will receive a Wrap-Up file with pictures, notice of loss, estimate, invoice, and monitoring reports.

We have done business with universities, local government buildings, hospitals, Class A buildings, schools, apartment complexes, etc.

You can call us 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for your restoration needs 404-378-9998.  

How to Deal with Storm Damage in Your Home

11/12/2018 (Permalink)

Call Us Today- 404-378-9998

Mother Nature to cause extensive and expensive damage to your home or business. It’s been such a rainy season in Georgia that it doesn’t take much to bring trees and powerlines down.

Here are a few tips to prevent storm damage to your property

• CLEAN THE GUTTERS (preferably twice a year, but definitely in the fall). It doesn’t take a lot of dead leaves and branches to clog downspouts.
• Check your roof for loose or missing shingles. If you see that your roof is damaged, repair it immediately. It is much cheaper to replace missing shingles than wait and be forced to repair your ceilings, walls, and deal with mold due to poor maintenance.
• Walk around your yard and inspect trees- If you are not sure if a tree needs to come down, call a tree expert
• If you have any questions about your coverage, call your insurance agency.

Let SERVPRO of Decatur keep your home safe from storm and water damage. Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today- 404-378-9998

Safety Tips during the 2018 Hurricane Season

7/16/2018 (Permalink)

Think ahead, have a plan and be prepared

The Federal Emergency Management Agency is asking residents in the southeast to begin preparing for this year’s hurricane season.

Hurricanes are not only a threat to coastal areas, you can still be affected more than 100 miles inland. Storm surge, heavy rainfall, inland flooding, landslides high winds and tornadoes can cause catastrophic damage. The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1^st to November 30^th.

• Talk to your family and come up with an emergency/evacuation plan.
• Know your area’s risk of hurricanes.
• In case you need to leave your home, make sure your family knows where to meet.
• Have an emergency preparedness kit. Gather enough supplies to last for at least three days.
• Don’t forget about your pets
• Keep important documents in a safe place. Have your insurance information handy. Take a picture of your policy number, etc.
• Keep your car in good working condition, and keep the gas tank full.
• Only use generators outdoors and away from windows.
• If you are told to evacuate, do so immediately.
• Don’t walk, swim or drive though flood waters.

For more information visit ready.gov or download the FEMA app.

Source: https://www.ready.gov/hurricanes

Fire Safety Tips during Summer Storms

7/16/2018 (Permalink)

If you need help, call SERVPRO of Decatur at 404-378-9998

Around Henry and Spalding Counties, we’ve been having a very rainy and stormy summer. Here are some tips to keep your family and your home safe when severe weather hits.

• Develop and practice an evacuation plan ahead of a severe weather event. (Don’t forget to have a plan for your pets too)

• Stay out of flood waters, if possible, and do not drive into flooded areas. Even water only several inches deep can be dangerous.

• There is no place outside that is safe during a thunderstorm, and if you can hear thunder, you are within striking distance of lighting
• Stay away from windows and doors
• Turn off computers and unplug appliances
• If possible, don’t run the dishwasher or washing machine during a storm
• Wait at least 30 minutes after hearing thunder before leaving your house or shelter

Source: https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/By-topic/Emergency-Preparedness/Natural-disasters/Severe-storms, www.nfpa.org/education

Storm Damage Emergency Tips

7/16/2018 (Permalink)

If you need help, call us today at 404-378-9998

These are some do’s and don’ts on what to do after a flood

What To Do After Flooding

• Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and tabletop items.
• Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
• Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in summer.
• Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting.
• Remove art objects to a safe, dry place.
• Gather loose items from floors.

What NOT To Do After Flooding

• Don't leave wet fabrics in place. Hang furs and leather goods.
• Don't leave books, magazines or other colored items on wet carpet or floors.
• Don't use your household vacuum to remove water.
• Don't use television or other household appliances.
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging.

When Storms hit Decatur, SERVPRO is ready to help!

11/16/2017 (Permalink)

We are ready for whatever happens!

SERVPRO of Decatur specializes in handling storm damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your home or business 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 Storms

When storms hit Decatur, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of more than 1,700 Franchises across the country.

We are ready to work with you if a storm ever damages your home or business!

Have Storm Damage? Call Us Today 404-378-9998

Be Ready for Any Size Disaster

8/9/2017 (Permalink)

Any type of disaster, big or small, can be scary when it is directly affecting your business. According to the latest research as many as 50% of businesses close down following a disaster; of the businesses that do manage to survive a large portion of them had a preparedness plan in place. SERVPRO offers a no cost assessment of your facility in order to provide you with an Emergency READY profile, so that you will know the exact steps to take when your business is in need. Do not let a storm take advantage of you, but instead be prepared for anything it has to throw your way!

Our Emergency READY Program and the American Red Cross Ready Rating program are perfect partners.

Call us today to schedule an assessment of your facilities. #BeAHero #beSERVPROready

Tornado Facts

8/9/2017 (Permalink)

According to the weather channel, Georgia is the U.S. state with the most tornadoes so far in 2017, setting a new state record of 102 tornadoes. With that in mind it is important to be knowledgeable and up to date on these facts about tornadoes.

Tornadoes are arguably nature's most violent storms. Generated from powerful thunderstorms, tornadoes generally appear as rotating, funnel-shaped clouds extending from the closed base to the ground. With winds that can reach up to 300 miles per hour, tornadoes can cause massive destruction within seconds. Damage paths can be in excess of one mile wide and fifty miles long.

• The average tornado moves southwest to northeast, but tornadoes have been known to move in any direction.
• The average forward speed of a tornado is 30 miles per hour, but may vary from stationary to 70 miles per hour. 
• Tornadoes can accompany tropical storms and hurricanes as they move onto land.
• Tornadoes are most frequently reported east of the Rocky Mountains during spring and summer months.
• Tornadoes are most likely to occur between 3 p.m. and 9 p.m.

If a storm does happen to occur, please don't hesitate to contact us at 404-378-9998!

Thunderstorm Safety and How to Prepare

7/20/2017 (Permalink)

Thunderstorms can happen nearly anywhere around the world and have the potential to be extremely dangerous. The typical thunderstorm is 15 miles in diameter and lasts an average of 30 minutes; nearly 1,800 thunderstorms are happening at any moment around the world! Although thunderstorms can occur year-round they are more common during the spring and summer months.

WATCH VS. WARNING

• A watch is issued when conditions are favorable for the development of severe thunderstorms in and around the watch area. It does not mean that a thunderstorm will occur, only that it is possible.
• A warning is issued when severe thunderstorms are occurring or imminent in the warning area.

BE PREPARED

• Build an emergency kit and make a family communication plan.
• Keep dead or rotting limbs trimmed to prevent them from falling during a storm.
• Do not hesitate to postpone outdoor activities.
• Secure outdoor objects that could blow away or cause damage.
• Shutter your windows and secure outside doors.
• Unplug any electronic equipment well before the storm arrives!

If your home or business is damaged from a storm call SERVPRO of Decatur at 404-378-9998.

SERVPRO of Decatur is a Certified Large Loss Response Team

7/18/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO disaster recovery truck!

SERVPRO of Decatur has been certified as a SERVPRO, Inc. Large Loss Provider! This means we can handle losses of any size, large or small!

The SERVPRO Disaster Recovery Team can provide help whether you're dealing with a tornado, hurricane, blizzard or flood. The SERVPRO System has a network of strategically positioned storm teams on standby should a disaster strike near you. Available 24 hours a day and 365 days a year, SERVPRO Franchise Professionals are prepared for the unpredictable.

At SERVPRO, the difference is our ability to dispatch trained production professionals and cut costs through the strategic placement. Get help from the professionals; call SERVPRO of Decatur at 404-378-9998.

With the ability to mobilize local command centers, along with the resources of more than 1,700 Franchises nationwide, no disaster is too big. We are ready for your phone call!

Three Ways to Prevent Storm Damage to Your Home

7/18/2017 (Permalink)

Our highly trained crews are ready to respond 24/7 to storm or flood damage in Decatur!

An unexpected storm can hit your town at any day throughout the year. While it is hard to prepare on the spot when a storm is headed your way there are several preventative measures you can take ahead of time to minimize the risk of damage to your home when severe weather does hit. According to MoonWorks here are three steps you can take before a major storm hits your town.

1. Remove Dead Wood.

By trimming the trees around your home on a regular basis there is less of a chance for heavy limbs to fall on and damage your home when large winds blow through.

2. Secure Outdoor Items.

When you are aware of a storm coming your way try to put all loose items such as grills, picnic tables, umbrellas, and lawn furniture inside in order to prevent damage to these items or a nearby window.

3. Inspect Roof Periodically.

A brand new roof should be able to withstand most weather that comes it way, but if your roof is more like 5-10 years old it might be time to get it checked for loose shingles, nails and sheathing. It is better to go ahead and fix these small aspects of your roof now then to have to pay for the extensive damages when a big storm hits.

SERVPRO of Decatur is a Certified Large Loss Response Team

3/18/2016 (Permalink)

Ready When You Need Us

SERVPRO of Decatur has been certified as a SERVPRO, Inc. Large Loss Provider! This means we can handle losses of any size. Whether it's a busted pipe under the kitchen sink, or a major flooding in your commercial building, call us 24/7 for your restoration needs.