Recent Storm Damage Posts

Understanding Tornado Alerts and What to do When One is Assigned to Your Area

10/9/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Technician arrives on scene at a tornado-damaged home. After a tornado ran through several streets in Escambia County, our Storm Team was dispatched to aide in the restoration.

Tornadoes can form with very little warning during storm situations, making them highly dangerous to both property and people.  To best prepare for the threat of tornadoes, there are two standard alerts that are issued: Tornado Watch and Tornado Warning.  According to the National Weather Service, each alert is defined in the following way:

Tornado Watch: Be Prepared!

Tornadoes are possible in and near the watch area. Review and discuss your emergency plans and check supplies and your safe room. Be ready to act quickly if a warning is issued or you suspect a tornado is approaching. The watch area is typically large, covering numerous counties or even states.

Tornado Warning: Take Action!

A tornado has been sighted or indicated by weather radar. There is imminent danger to life and property. Move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building. Avoid windows. If in a mobile home, a vehicle, or outdoors, move to the closest substantial shelter and protect yourself from flying debris. Warnings typically encompass a much smaller area (around the size of a city or small county) that may be impacted by a tornado identified by a forecaster on radar or by a trained spotter who is watching the storm.

If your home or business has sustained damages from a tornado, give SERVPRO of Northwest Escambia® a call at 850-466-3089.  Our professional team is Here to Help®with industry leading equipment, advanced technology, and extensive experience with storm damages.

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

Storm Season Tips: How to Weather Damage and Prevent Further Challenges.

9/13/2022 (Permalink)

Disaster damage endured on the Florida coast. Businesses and Residents of Coastal Areas Pick Up the Pieces After the Storms.

Tis the season for STORMS! 

If you have experienced a Florida storm season, you know turbulent weather can cause serious damage to vegetation, homes and buildings alike. Wind damage is a leading cause and can loose shingles and tiles on the roof structures. When this happens, rain and snow can seep into the protective surfaces of the roof and cause wood swells and lead to mold in the future. The most common elements- wind, hail, rain, lightning can cause catastrophic damages and greatly impact your life. For that very reason, restoration companies, like ours, exist. Here are some of the activities you can expect from the  SERVPRO storm restoration service professionals.

For both businesses and residential needs, our team will come to the affected property with the best of the best, trained experts to do a detailed examination of the inside and outside of the building. This discovery process can help determine the level of damage. Most often, we will discuss the service needs with the client and the insurance adjuster.

Once the conversation has reached the agreement phase, the work can begin. With various levels of damages, the plan with map out time needed very clearly to meet all expectations of the customer and insurance company. Often, flooding requires specialized pumps and vacuums to remove the water and moisture.

In addition to those, generators are typically brought in to provide power to the air movers and other machinery so as to avoid mold and future damages. Cleaning supplies patented to SERVPRO are used as well for best results. Any carpet or tangible items that can be salvaged are presented to the client to keep.

If contacted in time, our team will be able to rescue your building from greater structural issues, by inspecting the roof and replacing the dilapidated areas. After sealing and renovating the roof, they will then address the ceiling and restore to its former condition.

As you can see, when you suffer from natural disasters, the storm damage restoration process is something our experts can handle.   If you've recently suffered from storm damage and are looking for storm damage repair or water damage cleanup, contact our team today.

SERVPRO’s Storm Damage Restoration Services

6/17/2022 (Permalink)

Office floor with standing water Have stormy conditions damaged your home or business? SERVPRO of Northwest Escambia County is Here to Help!

Residents and business owners in Northwest Florida are all too familiar with the property damage risks associated with stormy weather.  Whether from a named hurricane, a severe afternoon thunderstorm, or multiple days of rainy conditions, Mother Nature can cause a wide array of issues to homes and businesses.  While many people are aware of WHAT services SERVPRO of Northwest Escambia County offers, including storm damage restoration, many may not be aware of the specific things we can do to help make your property damage “Like it never even happened.”  Utilizing industry leading equipment, IICRC operating standards, and numerous years of in the field experience, our team provides a variety of different service lines to meet all your restoration needs:

  • Emergency Roof Tarping & Board-Up Service
  • Standing Water Extraction
  • Moisture Mapping
  • Structural Drying
  • Dehumidification
  • Deodorization
  • Contents Pack-Out, Cleaning, Storage, and Move-Back
  • Document Drying
  • Reconstruction Services

No loss is too large for our cleanup and restoration professionals to handle.  Along with providing restoration service throughout the communities of Pensacola, Cantonment, and Century, Florida, our team also travels during major storm events to assist our neighbors in need throughout the United States.  This network of over 2,000 SERVPRO franchises gives us a multitude of resources at our disposal when disaster strikes.

Here to Help, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, SERVPRO of Northwest Escambia County is proud to be of service to our friends throughout the area.  To learn more about the various services we provide, request assistance, or for any other questions, please give us a call: 850-466-3089.

Storm Season – What Are the Risks?

6/6/2022 (Permalink)

Thunderstorm coming in over a grassy field Are you and your property prepared for severe weather?

With summertime comes school breaks, outdoor barbecues, and…stormy season.  Northwest Florida experiences more than its fair share of rainy weather, thunderstorms, and severe weather threats during this time of year.  Unfortunately, with stormy weather the possibility of property damage rises.  So, what are some of the most common weather-related culprits of property damage, and how can you, as a home or business owner, prepare for the risks?

Rain, Rain, Rain: While the occasional rain shower is both good and necessary, heavy amounts of rain mixed with additional factors can lead to disaster.  Torrential rainfall can cause flash flooding, heavy rains coupled with high wind gusts can push the water into places where it doesn’t belong, and rainy conditions over an extended amount of time can lead to widespread flood conditions.  When rain is in the forecast, make sure your property is prepared.  Check window and door sills for any cracks or leaks.  Clean out rain gutters to prevent water from backing up onto your roof.  Clear debris from drainage areas to reduce the risk of flooding.

Tornadoes: Thunderstorms have the potential to spawn dangerous tornadoes.  While there is little that can be done to prepare your property from tornado threats, it is important to prepare yourself and loved ones.  Have a designated area within the building to shelter in.  This area should be on the lowest level of the property, away from windows and doors, and as centrally located within the building as possible.  Make sure to have a way to receive weather alerts, so that you can be aware of any tornado watches or warnings in your area.

High Winds: Heavy winds can result in extensive damage to your property.  Make sure your roof is up to building code and utilize hurricane clips if possible.  You may want to consider installing storm shutters on windows.  Before a storm with projected high winds moves into the area, clear any loose limbs, outdoor debris, and patio furniture away: all these things can become projectiles in heavy winds.  Stay away from windows during storms with high winds, as broken glass can pose a serious safety hazard.

As many Floridians are all too aware, these are just a few of the risks associated with storms.  With a higher-than-average 2022 Hurricane Season projected, the time to plan and prepare for severe weather is NOW!  For additional information on thunderstorms, hurricanes, and other weather occurrences, there are many great resources available:

The National Weather Service: https://www.weather.gov/

The Weather Channel: https://weather.com/

Escambia County Emergency Management: https://myescambia.com/our-services/public-safety/beready.

The National Hurricane Center: https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/. 

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA): https://www.noaa.gov/weather

If severe weather does damage your home or business, remember that SERVPRO of Northwest Escambia County is here to help.  We’re proud to be of service to the communities of Pensacola, Century, and Cantonment, and will work diligently to make your property damage “Like it never even happened.”  SERVPRO of Northwest Escambia County is just one call away, 24 hours a day: 850-466-3089.

Hurricane Season is Approaching… Are You Ready?

4/4/2022 (Permalink)

Satellite image of Hurricane Michael over Florida Panhandle Are you prepared for Hurricane Season?

As Floridians know all too well, when hurricane season approaches, they must pay close attention to weather forecasts and be vigilant to keep themselves and their property safe.  Hurricane season begins on June 1st and runs through the end of September.  So, what can you, a property owner in Escambia County, do to plan for, prepare for, and hopefully prevent, damage from occurring at your home or business?

  • Have an emergency plan in place. For homeowners, this may include determining an evacuation route in case needed, researching hotels that will accommodate your needs (pets, large family, etc.), and making a list of all medications that you and your family members take.  For businesses, one of the best ways to plan for an emergency is to have a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile.  This is a complimentary service that SERVPRO of Northwest Escambia County provides, documenting all the pertinent information about your business, and putting it into one easy to access, electronic app.  To learn more, and begin preparing YOUR profile, reach out to our team at 850-466-3089.
  • Stock a hurricane supply kit. Depending on the specific needs of your family, this kit may include a variety of items.  Essential items include a supply of fresh water (enough for 3 days per person), non-perishable food items, flashlights, batteries, and a battery or crank powered radio.
  • Storm Prep your property. This may include cleaning out rain gutters, securing patio furniture, trimming trees and bushes, or clearing weeds and debris from your yard.  During this preparation, you may also want to consider installing storm shutters and doors.  From a commercial property standpoint, it will also be important to have a “chain of command” identified in case damages occur so that work may begin more quickly to mitigate damage.
  • Have a way to receive weather alerts. Whether from a local or state organization, or from the National Weather Service, it is important to have a way to receive weather alerts during hurricane season.  Knowledge is power, and this power can help protect both you and your property.

Ready to respond to storm damages 24/7, SERVPRO of Northwest Escambia County is your locally owned and operated cleanup and restoration specialist.  To learn more about our services, inquire about the SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile, or for any other issues, please call our office at 850-466-3089!

The FYI on Floodwaters

3/11/2022 (Permalink)

Commercial Building surrounded by Floodwaters Flooding Issues? Trust SERVPRO of Northwest Escambia County to help mitigate the damages!

Not only can severe storms bring heavy rains, gusty winds, and the potential for tornadoes, but they also provide the perfect conditions for flooding.  Floodwaters can be very dangerous both while they are occurring, as well as after they have begun to recede.  How though, you might wonder?  Understanding the characteristics of floodwaters can help answer this question:

  1. Floodwaters are considered Category 3, or “blackwater,” which is the descriptor given to waters considered to be grossly contaminated. Because floodwaters carry dirt, debris, and other pollutants, they can be very hazardous. 
  2. Because of the potential for contamination carried by floodwaters, materials that are affected must be handled carefully, and those that cannot be sanitized effectively should be discarded. Porous materials, including carpet and drywall, often cannot be safely restored after being affected by floodwaters.
  3. Not only can floodwater leave behind contaminants, but they can cause safety concerns to navigate. Often, waters may be much deeper than realized; because of this, you should NEVER walk, wade, or drive through floodwaters.

When it comes to restoring your home or business after floodwater have caused damage, you want a local, trusted professional that you can call on.  With multiple years’ experience and extensive training, the team at SERVPRO of Northwest Escambia County is equipped and Here to Help when flood disasters strike.  Serving communities throughout the Panhandle of Florida, our team takes great pride in working to make your property damage “Like it never even happened.”  To learn more or request services, please give us a call at 850-466-3089!

When Severe Storms Strike…. We’re Here to Help!

1/10/2022 (Permalink)

Buildings with storm clouds in the background and a SERVPRO logo in the foreground When Severe Storms Strike...Call SERVPRO of Northwest Escambia County for Help!

The “BEEP…, BEEP…, BEEP….” of a severe weather warning coming across the airwaves is a sound that community members across Northwest Florida are all too familiar with.  Whether a thunderstorm warning, tornado watch, or a combination of weather events, having a way to receive these alerts is extremely important. 

Once you have determined HOW you will receive your alerts, having a plan in place of WHAT to do when severe storms strike is next:

  • If evacuation is required, where will I go?
  • Where is the safest area inside of the home for my family to gather?
  • What supplies do I need to have prepared in case of severe weather?
  • Where are all my important documents located? Will they be safe during a weather event?

Now the storms have passed, and your family is safe, but uh oh…. Property Damage!  Maybe its roof damage from a fallen tree, wind driven rain brought in through an improperly sealed window, or flood waters that creeped throughout the home.  You ask yourself: What do I do?

Call SERVPRO of Northwest Escambia County for Help!  Our team of highly trained cleanup and restoration professionals is Here to Help, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.  We have helped our Northwest Florida community through numerous storms in years past and are dedicated to being of service when it matters most.  Serving the communities of Cantonment, Century, and Pensacola, Florida, SERVPRO of Northwest Escambia County is “Faster to any size disaster.”  To learn more or request service, please give us a call at 850-466-3089 today!

Hurricane Season 2021 – Stay Weather Aware!

9/14/2021 (Permalink)

Image of a hurricane over Florida Have a way to receive weather alerts throughout hurricane season!

As previously projected, the 2021 Hurricane Season has, so far, produced an above average number of storms, including a few major named systems.  Residents and property owners throughout the Florida Panhandle understand the importance of preparing for hurricane season, but along with that preparation, it is also imperative to stay vigilant and weather aware!  Following are some great resources for weather alerts, storm tracking, and local emergency information:

The National Hurricane Center: https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/.  This site provides information on all currently active tropical activity, data and tools, and educational resources concerning storms.

Escambia County Emergency Management: https://myescambia.com/our-services/public-safety/beready. Here you can find severe weather tips, important local phone numbers, evacuation shelters in the area, and sign up for local weather alerts.

The Weather Channel: https://weather.com/. The weather channel offers live coverage during storm events, as well as a “hurricane central” section of their website for the latest information.

Many local and state authorities also offer Social Media pages, including Facebook and Twitter, where they will post current, up-to-date information on tropical systems, tropical storms, or hurricanes that may impact the area.  Following local news stations and governmental departments can also provide a wealth of information to keep yourself and your loved ones safe.

As we continue through the peak of Hurricane Season 2021, remember that if your home or business does unfortunately incur damage, SERVPRO of Northwest Escambia County is Here to Help.  Our team of highly trained professionals is available at 850-466-3089 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for emergencies.  Keep an eye on the tropics!

Prepare Your PETS for Storm Season, too!

6/21/2021 (Permalink)

Cat and Dog on a white background It's Hurricane Season! Pet Preparation is Important Too!

With Northwest Florida being such an active area for tropical storm and hurricane activity, most residents know the importance of preparing themselves for storm season.  While preparing yourself, your family, and your property, it is also imperative to prepare your PETS as well:

  1. Make sure your pets are microchipped. If you and your pet get separated, this will provide the best chance of a reunion.  The microchip contains much more information than a standard ID tag and does not run the risk of falling off the pet.  Along with having your pet microchipped, be sure to update the information as it changes!
  2. Determine which shelters or hotels are pet friendly ahead of time. If you wait until it is time to evacuate, it may be too late.  While more and more hotels and storm shelters are becoming pet friendly, the last thing you want to have happen is you arrive at another, safe location, and they will not allow your pet inside.
  3. Utilize leashes, collars, and/or pet carriers. Use of these items reduces the likelihood that you and your pet will get separated.  You will also want to tag these items with you contact information in case your pet is separated from you while wearing a collar or within a pet carrier.
  4. Be sure to pack plenty of pet supplies. As you are creating your Emergency Preparedness Kit for your family, be sure to include a week’s supply of your pet’s food, medication, and water as well.  You may also want to include pet toys and bedding in the emergency kit.
  5. Identify the location of local animal shelters. If you and your pet are separated during a storm event, an animal shelter is a good place to begin looking.  Knowing ahead of time where shelters are located could help reduce the amount of time you and your pet are separated.

Preparation is KEY during storm season to ensure the safety of your loved ones, your property, and your PETS!  For more pet preparedness information, visit The American Red Cross’ Pet Disaster Preparedness site, and if you do find that your property sustains storm damage, know that SERVPRO of Northwest Escambia County is Here to Help!

Hurricane Preparedness in Pensacola, Florida

6/14/2021 (Permalink)

Hurricane Season sign on a stormy background Hurricane Season is Here! Are you Prepared?

Residents of the Florida Panhandle know all too well the importance of being prepared for Hurricane Season, which officially began on June 1st.  The past couple of years have produced a higher-than-average number of named and major tropical systems, and 2021 is projected to follow that same trend. So, what are some steps that you can take to prepare your property, whether residential or commercial, for the possibility of another active storm season?

  1. Clear all loose debris from your property. Debris can quickly become dangerous during a storm, with high winds turning materials into projectiles.  Trimming trees, removing fallen limbs, and storing lawn furniture in a safe location are all some ways to help reduce this risk.
  2. Clean out your rain gutters. Clogged rain gutters will allow water to pool on top of your roof, increasing the possibility of a leak or intrusion.  Many tropical systems bring with them a heavy amount of rain, so avoiding this pooling is extremely important for helping protect your property.
  3. Consider installing storm shutters. Storm shutters are designed specifically to protect your windows from intense weather conditions.  This, in turn, reduces the likelihood of water and debris intrusion, limiting the chance for interior property damage.
  4. Check your insurance policy. If you home or business does suffer damages, it is important to know what is, or is not, covered by your insurance.  For example, flood insurance is often a separate policy, so flood damages may not be covered by a standard policy.

Keeping yourself and your loved ones safe during a Hurricane or Tropical Storm is the number one priority.  Always follow the direction of local and state officials concerning evacuations and precautions.  If your home or business does incur storm damages, know that the professionals at SERVPRO of Northwest Escambia County have the training, equipment, and experience to cleanup and restore damages of all sizes.  To learn more, or schedule service, please give us a call at 850-466-3089.

Understanding Flooding in Northwest Florida

4/14/2021 (Permalink)

Cartoon of flood waters affecting cars and buildings When flood damages occur, trust SERVPRO of Northwest Escambia County to Help!

Flooding is defined as “an overflowing of water onto land that is normally dry.”  Flooding can be caused by a multitude of different occurrences; the two experienced most frequently in the Northwest Florida being tropical systems and heavy thunderstorms.  Floods are the most common and widespread of all weather-related natural disasters, therefore it is important to understand the different types of flooding possible in our area, and to prepare ahead of time in case of such an event.

River Flood – a river flood occurs when water rises over the top of a riverbank.  This can immediately affect structures located near the river, and if water levels continue to rise, affect homes and businesses downstream.

Coastal Flood – a coastal flood occurs when land areas along the coast are inundated with rising waters.  A combination of factors, including tidal patterns, rainfall, and land elevation can all play a role in coastal flooding issues. 

Storm Surge – Storm surge is a variation of coastal flooding in which the wind, atmospheric pressure, and waves of a severe storm greatly increase the water level in coastal areas.  Highly common during hurricanes, storm surge can occur very quickly, and pose serious property and safety concerns.

Flash Flood – a flash flood is usually caused by heavy or excessive rainfall in a short period of time.  Flash floods can occur with very little warning and be extremely dangerous.  Clogged draining systems and standing debris can contribute to the likelihood of flash flooding occurrences.

Understanding different types of flooding, those that are most likely to affect your home or business, and how to prepare, can help to protect both your and your property in the event of a flooding disaster.  In the unfortunate event that flood waters have caused you to experience property damage, know that SERVPRO of Northwest Escambia County has the training, experience, and equipment to help.  For more information about our services, give us a call at 850-466-3089.

Source: https://www.nssl.noaa.gov/education/svrwx101/floods/types/

Escambia County Recovery & Restoration: Hurricane Sally

3/16/2021 (Permalink)

Dessicant in front of a commercial property in Escambia County, FL We offer storm damage remediation and restoration for properties of all sizes!

Many local residents and business owners are still in the process of recovering and restoring their properties from Hurricane Sally, which caused extensive damage to the greater Escambia County area in September 2020.  The team members at SERVPRO of Northwest Escambia County, a locally owned and operated franchise, have had the same experiences as our neighbors, and truly understand the difficulties that are being faced. 

With numerous years of training and experience, our dedicated technicians are prepared and Here to Help with your remediation and restoration efforts.  Along with widespread flood damages, many are now experiencing another issue from Hurricane Sally: MOLD!  We are a Licensed Mold Remediation Firm, possess the proper equipment needed to remediate mold damages safely and effectively, and take great pride in being of service to our community.

Our franchise provides a full array of mitigation and remediation services, and we are ALSO a licensed General Contractor, capable of providing rebuild services for your property.  Many homes and businesses sustained damages that exceed the need of mitigation alone, and by employing SERVPRO of Northwest Escambia County, your property can be taken care of, start to finish, by one centralized organization.

When it comes to property recovery, remediation, and restoration, trust SERVPRO of Northwest Escambia County for help.  With the backing of over 1,700 franchises nationwide, our team is Faster to Any Size Disaster.  To learn more, please give us a call at 850-466-3089.

Rain Gutters 101 – Preparing Your Pensacola Home for Stormy Weather

1/25/2021 (Permalink)

Cleaning out a debris filled rain gutter Serving Cantonment, Century, and surrounding areas, SERVPRO of Northwest Escambia County is Here to Help when storm damages strike!

The Gulf Coast of Florida is no stranger to storm situations, ranging from summer showers to severe tropical systems.  One of the vital steps in making sure your home is storm ready is taking care of your rain gutters.  This simple chore can reduce the potential for structural water damages, saving your both headache and money in future repairs.

Cleaning out your rain gutters can be accomplished in 3 easy steps:

  • Step 1: Scoop out large debris from the gutter. Start at the end closest to the downspout and work your way to the opposite end of the gutter.  The removal of this debris allows water from rainstorms to flow more freely to the downspout and away from your roof.
  • Step 2: Use a water hose to spray water through the gutter toward the downspout or drain outlet. This stream of water will assist in removing stuck on dirt and debris from the gutter that may not have been removed by scooping.
  • Step 3: Check your drainpipes and downspout for any blockages. Running water down these pipes and watching the resulting flow from the bottom can assist you in this.  If you see a light trickle of water, it most likely means that there is a blockage in the pipe.  A stronger spray of water through the downspout can remove stuck debris, resulting in a clear gutter system to remove water from your roof.

Preparation is key to reducing the risk of storm related damages.  In the unfortunate event that your property does incur damages from a storm, know that SERVPRO of Northwest Escambia County is Here to Help.  Our team offers 24/7/365 emergency response, and are prepared to assist you and your property when disaster strikes.

What is a Tropical System?

10/15/2020 (Permalink)

Tropical System with SERVPRO logo SERVPRO of Northwest Escambia County is Here to Help with all of your storm related property damages! Give us a call at 850-466-3089

The Panhandle of Florida is no stranger to tropical depressions, tropical storms, and hurricanes.  The recent landfall of Hurricane Sally brought a great deal of flooding and wind damage to our area, and the 2020 Hurricane Season is still not quite over yet.  Because of the likelihood for tropical systems in our community, it is important to understand the different categories of these storms.  The National Hurricane Center defines each type of tropical system as follows:

  • Tropical Depression: A tropical cyclone with maximum sustained winds of 38 mph or less.
  • Tropical Storm: A tropical cyclone with maximum sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph.
  • Hurricane: A tropical cyclone with maximum sustained winds of 74 mph or higher.

Hurricanes are further ranked by intensity on what is known as the Sariff-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale:

  • Category 1: 74-95 MPH sustained winds. 
  • Category 2: 96-110 MPH sustained winds.
  • Category 3: 111-129 MPH sustained winds.
  • Category 4: 130-156 MPH sustained winds.
  • Category 5: 157 of higher MPH sustained winds.

With the increase in storm intensity, or category, comes the added probability of dangerous conditions and damage to your property.  When a tropical depression, tropical storm, or hurricane is forecasted in your area, always follow the direction of local officials to keep yourself and your loved ones safe.  In the even that a recent storm has caused damage to you home or business, know that SERVPRO of Northwest Escambia County is Here to Help.  Our professional team can remediate water, wind, or flood damages, to help make it “Like it never even happened.”  For more information, give us a call at 850-466-3089.

Utilizing Storm Shutters

6/30/2020 (Permalink)

If storms have damaged your home or business, SERVPRO of Northwest Escambia County is Here to Help!

Heavy thunderstorms, and hurricanes during hurricane season, are extremely common occurrences in Northwest Florida.  These storms can lead to catastrophic property damage if homes and business are not properly prepared and protected.  A highly suggested preparation to make, especially going into hurricane season, is the utilization of storm shutters.  Storm shutters offer many protective and safety advantages, including reduction of broken windows, reduced risk of personal injury, and peace of mind that both you and your property are protected in the case of wind driven debris. 

Along with providing value during a storm, storm shutters may also increase the resale value of your property.  Potential buyers tend to prefer property upgrades and can take peace of mind in the added security and safety features that storm shutters add to a home or business.

In the event that a storm occurrence has caused damage to your home or business, SERVPRO of Northwest Escambia County is Here to Help.  Give us a call at 850-466-3089, our experienced team is Faster to Any Size Disaster!

Storms In The Forecast?

6/17/2020 (Permalink)

When storms cause damage to your home or business, SERVPRO of Northwest Escambia County is Here to Help!

Are heavy rains, thunderstorms, or other severe weather in the forecast for your area?  If so, the following suggestions from the National Real Estate Insurance Group about preparing your property may help reduce structural damage for your home or business:

  • Make sure your landscaping is well kempt. Trim small trees and shrubs to make them more wind resistant.  This will limit the amount of potential debris available to affect your home or business.
  • Secure loose rain gutter and downspouts. Clear any leaves, sticks, or other debris from gutters to prevent water backup to your structure.
  • Remove and store loose yard furniture and decorations. In the instance of high winds, these items could damage siding and windows.
  • In the event a major storm, such as a hurricane, is approaching, plan to cover or board up windows and doors, as well as brace your garage door if applicable.

While protecting your property from a storm event is important, it is imperative to also consider both you and your loved one’s safety.  Follow any advisories set forth by local officials, such as evacuation orders, and be sure to have a storm supply kit prepared in case of emergency.

If a storm occurrence has caused damage to your home or business, SERVPRO of Northwest Escambia County is Here to Help.  Our experienced team is Faster to Any Size Disaster!

Understanding Tornado Alerts

5/27/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Northwest Escambia County is Here to Help with storm damages occur in Pensacola, Century and Cantonment, Florida!

Tornadoes can form with very little warning during storm situations, making them highly dangerous to both property and people.  To best prepare for the threat of tornadoes, there are two standard alerts that are issued: Tornado Watch and Tornado Warning.  According to the National Weather Service, each alert is defined in the following way:

Tornado Watch: Be Prepared!

Tornadoes are possible in and near the watch area. Review and discuss your emergency plans and check supplies and your safe room. Be ready to act quickly if a warning is issued or you suspect a tornado is approaching. The watch area is typically large, covering numerous counties or even states.

Tornado Warning: Take Action!

A tornado has been sighted or indicated by weather radar. There is imminent danger to life and property. Move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building. Avoid windows. If in a mobile home, a vehicle, or outdoors, move to the closest substantial shelter and protect yourself from flying debris. Warnings typically encompass a much smaller area (around the size of a city or small county) that may be impacted by a tornado identified by a forecaster on radar or by a trained spotter who is watching the storm.

If your home or business has sustained damages from a tornado, give SERVPRO of Northwest Escambia a call at 850-466-3089.  Our professional team is Here to Help® with industry leading equipment, advanced technology, and extensive experience with storm damages.

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

Hurricane Preparedness Kit

5/14/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Northwest Escambia County is Here to Help with all of your storm damage needs. Give us a call at 850-466-3089.

Hurricane season begins on June 1st.  Living in the Panhandle of Florida, being prepared for a hurricane is of the upmost importance for the safety of you and your loved ones.  According to ready.gov, the following list of supplies is recommended for your hurricane preparedness kit:

  • Water- one gallon per person, per day, for at least 3 days
  • Food- at least a 3-day supply of non-perishable food
  • Battery powered or hand crank radio
  • Flashlight
  • First Aid Kit
  • Be sure to determine beforehand the size batteries needed for your radio and flashlight(s) and have plenty available.
  • Manual Can Opener
  • Local Maps
  • Prescription Medications
  • Cash or Traveler’s Checks
  • Pencil and Paper
  • Copies of Important Documents

Depending on the specific needs of your family, a more extensive kit may be necessary, including children’s games and activities, baby food, or pet supplies.  It is recommended to keep your preparedness kit in an easily accessible location, free of moisture and humidity, and to regularly check your supplies to make sure none have been damaged or expired.

If a storm situation has damaged your home or business, SERVPRO of Northwest Escambia County is Here to Help!  Our experienced team has the knowledge and equipment to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

Flood Safety in Northwest Escambia County

4/30/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Northwest Escambia County is Here to Help in the event that a flood damages your property in Pensacola, Cantonment, or Century, Florida!

Flooding, which is defined as the “temporary overflow of water onto land that is normally dry” by The Ready Campaign, can occur at nearly any time and is an especially prevalent concern for the Panhandle of Florida.  Whether caused by a hurricane, severe thunderstorm, or man-made occurrence, flood waters can be both dangerous for you and your loved ones, as well as damaging to homes and businesses.  Following are a few guidelines for staying safe during a flood event:

  • Do not walk, swim, or drive into flood waters, as the water may be much deeper than expected.
  • Do not drink, cook with, or bathe in flood waters, as harm bacteria and microorganisms may be present.
  • Always follow the guidance of local authorities, including water advisory notices and evacuation orders.

When flood waters cause damage to your home or business, call SERVPRO of Northwest Escambia County at 850-466-3089 for professional water extraction, mitigation, and drying.  Our highly trained team is Faster to Any Size Disaster!

Staying Safe During a Thunderstorm

4/22/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Northwest Escambia County is Here to Help with Storm Damages in Pensacola, Cantonment, and surrounding areas!

Thunderstorms, and the weather conditions that often come along with them, can be very dangerous if proper precautions are not taken.  According to cdc.gov, the following are some best practices to adhere to during a thunderstorm event:

  • Do not go outdoors during a thunderstorm. Thunderstorms can produce lightning strikes, hail, high winds, and even tornadoes.  All these conditions have the potential to cause injury, and that potential is greatly reduced by being indoors.
  • Avoid using corded electronic equipment. Lightning can travel through electrical systems, such as televisions and radios.
  • Avoid water during a thunderstorm. Just as lightning can travel through electrical systems, it can also be transmitted by plumbing.
  • Keep away from windows. In the event of hail or high winds, windows can easily be damaged, leaving the hazard of broken glass.

If you find that no indoor shelter is available during a thunderstorm, redcross.org suggest the following guidelines to optimize safety while outdoors:

  • Avoid high ground, water, tall trees and metal objects. All of these have a higher likelihood of transmitting electricity from a lightning strike.
  • If you are driving, try to safely exit the roadway and park. Stay in the vehicle and turn on the emergency flashers until the heavy rain ends. Avoid touching metal or other surfaces that conduct electricity in and outside the vehicle.

If a storm has caused property damage to your home or business, give SERVPRO of Northwest Escambia County a call at 850-466-3089.  We have the experience and expertise to help restore your property “Like it never even happened.”