Dealing with Flood Damage on Setauket Home Contents

9/8/2024 (Permalink)

Flood damage can cause many problems in your home. Contact SERVPRO 24/7 for certified technicians who can get the job done.

SERVPRO® Mitigates Setauket Flood Damage on Possessions

Setauket, a historic hamlet in Brookhaven, was founded in 1655. Historical landmarks in the area are the Setauket Presbyterian Church and Caroline Church, dating back to the 18th century. Another notable establishment in Setauket is the Emma S. Clark Memorial Library, founded in 1892. Prominent individuals from the region include William de Leftwich Dodge, a muralist, and Joseph Reboli, a painter. Popular events like the Memorial Day Parade and the Setauket Harbor Day bring Setauket residents together.

When there is a storm, every homeowner is at risk of flooding. Therefore, understanding how flood damage can impact Setauket properties and the steps to take can help one be better prepared. Floodwaters can cause various damages to a property, from mold proliferation to appliance damage. Personal belongings, including documents and photographs, can be damaged by moisture, especially if the intervention is slow, and even after drying out, they might have significant damage. You need professionals like SERVPRO to tend to such situations on time. Prompt response is vital to saving one's belongings after water damage. 

Flood damage Impact to your home

• Contamination
• Structural damage
• Discoloration and staining

If water damage is not addressed quickly, structural damage can occur to furniture, floorboards, and cabinetry. Wooden items tend to swell, warp, or rot, while metal items can rust. Another aspect to consider is the unpleasant odors left behind due to contaminants, mold, and mildew. This requires professional cleaning. 

Carpets and Rugs Cleaning After a Flood

Typically, floodwaters severely ruin carpets and rugs and should be disposed of. However, some rugs may only have been impacted by the water coming from the roof. SERVPRO crews can help with the water extraction, cleaning, and drying in this case. We consider the extent of saturation, exposure duration, and the carpet's material and construction before cleaning. High-quality, durable carpets and rugs, like those made of synthetic fibers, are more likely to be salvaged through professional cleaning.

Carpet cleaning techniques may include

• Hot water extraction
• Steam cleaning
• Dry cleaning

SERVPRO of Port Jefferson ensures that household items are restored, helping you recover from the devastation of flood damage. Call us at (631) 476-5300. Faster to any size disaster™.

Ensuring a House Is Clean After Merrimack Flood Damage Incidents

4/11/2024 (Permalink)

When a storm damages your Merrimack home, call SERVPRO. We are Here to Help® 24/7.

Removing Visible and Invisible Soils as Part of Flood Restoration

Merrimack, NH, covers 33.4 square miles, with a robust local economy supporting its 26,632 residents. Among the contributors are major corporations like Fidelity Investments, which provides financial services, and BAE Systems, an aerospace company. The town has several highly rated schools like Merrimack High School, Professional Martial Arts Academy Merrimack, and Mastricola Elementary School. The Merrimack Historical Society and B&M Railroad Depot are notable local landmarks. Local annual events, such as the Merrimack Winter Carnival, Merrimack Holiday Parade, and Tree Lighting, allow one to meet and interact with other residents.

One thing you might face after flood damage affects your Merrimack property is widespread soiling. The flood restoration plan you develop for your property must address visible and invisible soils to ensure the house looks clean, feels clean, and is in a sanitary state once restoration is done. SERVPRO® provides qualified technicians, equipment, and products to help address the different forms of soiling. 

Soils left by a flooding incident

• Silt and mud
• Trash, waste, and debris
• Chemicals, oil, and petroleum products
• Biohazards

The stagnant water in your house and visible soils such as silt and mud may be your biggest concern because they are unsightly and interfere with your use of the property. However, you should also pay close attention to invisible soiling from chemicals and biohazards, which can affect the well-being of the occupants. SERVPRO uses a simultaneous approach that tackles both aspects of soiling. For instance, we spray broad-spectrum disinfectants around the areas of the property where the floodwaters reach to neutralize harmful microbes before starting cleanup. 

Removing the visible soils takes different procedures, including extraction with trash pumps, agitation, and dislodging with chemical agents. SERVPRO professionals have access to a wide array of trash pumps, including semi-trash, trash, full trash, and slurry, which remove water mixed with debris. Using detergents and agitating surfaces with specialized tools such as rotating brushes enhances cleaning thoroughness.

SERVPRO of Merrimack offers reliable flood damage mitigation services. Call (603) 262-9293. Faster to any size disaster™.

We Make Removal of Flood Water from Your Setauket Basement Easy

8/13/2023 (Permalink)

A flooded basement can be a lot of trouble for someone who doesn’t know how to repair it. Contact SERVPRO 24/7 for professional assistance.

Our Flood Water Removal Team Is Always Available

The second quarter of the year is here again. Wet weather is a substantial part of these few months. While flooding in Setauket can happen at any time, the amount of water from storms and melted snow can add up to significantly more. Many houses often require flood removal services for their basements.

SERVPRO's professionals can also protect your home in Setauket with flood removal services in more areas than the basement. We can also extract water from crawlspaces and other low-lying areas.

How do we get water out of places below ground level? Many people have this same question. Here are a few things that can help explain the process:

• Powerful extraction units,
• Various-sized hoses, and
• Drying and desiccation.

Flooding of basements happens more often than many people realize. Increased pressure from the weight of waterlogged soil makes basement flooding extremely likely. Our pump trucks can remove this water, even with debris present, from your basement, cellar, or crawlspace in a very timely manner. The large extraction unit head uses a motor-driven pump to pull water out of lower levels against gravity, despite the twists and turns created by tight spaces.

Our technicians can choose from different diameter hoses, allowing them to access enclosed spaces of many finished basements. While flooding requires us to tear out saturated drywall, other fixtures contain wood sheets or panels. The extraction of water trapped within these components allows us to restore them.

One extraction unit, our InjectiDry, also doubles as a drying machine. It has the added feature of forcing heated air into small enclosed areas. Increased heat helps us remove the remaining traces of flood water from your basement. We add heaters that increase the temperature inside the space we are drying. The extra warmth gives our desiccation machines an extra boost. Depending on your home, we might use these with or without air movers, plastic tubing, and air scrubbers.

For flooding or any other disaster, call SERVPRO? of Port Jefferson at (631) 825-8763. We are ready 24/7.

Effective Water Cleanup After Setauket Roof Damage

4/11/2023 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO today if you need help with professional storm damage restoration.

There’s Water in the Attic, Now What? 

When the weather compromises the roof, your attic can become rapidly overwhelmed. This confined space requires drying, extraction, and cleanup processes.

What Materials Are Ruined? 

The first step in starting water damage clean up in your Setauket attic is evaluating the damage. Cataloging the loss in the building, including materials that must get removed, helps determine the ideal recovery solutions. Often personal belongings and treasured memories are stored here. 

Tracking moisture damage and subsequent deterioration uses tools like:

• Thermal imagery
• Moisture sensors 
• Probing detection devices

Placing Drying Equipment in Confined Spaces 

We have many surface cleaning products that can help to remove soils and contaminants from the attic structure. Effective cleanup of the house must include drying. High-velocity air movers are a vital component of the evaporative drying process. When placed at an angle to the wall, we can increase the square footage of the wet surface area blasted with the centrifugal air movers. 

The second part of water damage cleanup for the house is regulating the airborne moisture that might result in mold growth. As air movers work to evaporate surface water on wet materials, dehumidifiers keep relative humidity manageable to ensure that this drying is continuous and productive. 

Repairs to Help Your Home 

Storm and water damage are not cleaned and recovered until repairs and reconstruction occur. Our SERVPRO professionals are licensed and certified in general contracting to complete needed build-back services. We can seamlessly transition from water cleanup to required reconstruction, like repairing the building envelope to reinstalling materials removed during the mitigation process.

With the damage, storms can do, and the water damage they can introduce to your home, SERVPRO of Port Jefferson is ready to help. We have skilled professionals to mitigate loss and clean up the mess a storm can make in your house. Call us at (631) 476-5300.

Restoration for Flood Damage in Your Setauket Home

11/8/2022 (Permalink)

“We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.”

SERVPRO Can Restore Your Setauket Property After Flood Damage

Few things can make you feel more helpless as a homeowner than the potential danger of external flooding and possible damage to your property. Flood water can contain contaminants, so let our professionals at SERVPRO handle all the cleanup and restoration for you.

When your property is affected by flood damage in Setauket, it is essential to act quickly to prevent additional damage. Make sure everyone exits the property and seeks somewhere safe to avoid any contaminants in the water. If it is safe, turn off any gas and electricity to limit the risk of electrical charges or gas leaks in the water. SERVPRO will come to clean up the water and restore your home.

The Restoration Process

Once SERVPRO technicians arrive at your property, there are several steps we take to complete the restoration:

• First, we pump out any standing water so we can assess the damages.
• Next, we safely remove and dispose of any contents and furniture damaged beyond repair.
• We check the building for any damage to the structure which could cause potential hazards now or in the future.
• We ensure the property is dry and dehumidified by removing residual water. If left untreated, it could lead to additional damage.

Getting your home back to its original state can be a complex and lengthy process, but our staff is professionally trained to complete the job thoroughly and promptly. After the restoration is complete, you should take measures to avoid flooding. The precautions can include the installation of waterproof membranes for walls and flooring and installing a new drainage system.

If a storm has damaged your home, contact SERVPRO of Port Jefferson immediately at (631) 476-5300. You can trust us to return your home to its preloss condition “Like it never even happened.”

Setauket Flood Damage After Storms Requires Prompt Cleanup

6/16/2022 (Permalink)

Disaster may strike at any time in Port Jefferson. Call SERVPRO for the flood damage restoration services needed for your property.

Contact SERVPRO in Setauket for Storm Flood Damage Help

When you experience storm flood infiltration in your Setauket home, it is wise to contact a trusted restoration company to handle the fallout. It minimizes potential structural damage, but you will also get back to normal quicker. We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster, providing area customers with proven results for storm-related issues year-round. 

What Is Storm Flood Damage In Setauket?

Flooding can be devastating, often bringing weeks or months of disruption to your routine if you do not act fast enough. Repairing this damage is a science, so contacting trained technicians like our IICRC-certified professionals will help minimize disruption, cost, and overall loss.

Home Flood Prevention Tips

The flooding comes from many causes, including flash floods and significant storm events. It can impact anyone, especially coastal regions like here in Setauket. There are some ways to prevent water issues from developing during a natural disaster, including:

• Know the risks – Pay attention to how water runs from surfaces surrounding your home with heavy rain. This will tell you areas of your Setauket home at risk so you can enlist the help of specialized landscaping or dry-proofing services.
• Ensure you are covered – Some homeowner’s policies do not cover flood damage. Take the time to check and invest in an additional policy should you feel you are at risk of flooding.
• Prepare your home – Think about installing a sump pump to handle floodwater removal from your basement. Even a few inches of contaminated floodwater can cause immense damage.

For all your floodwater removal services and reconstruction, SERVPRO is the team to help. We work fast with extraction tools and dehumidification equipment to return your property to pre-flood condition. Reconstruction gets performed using controlled demolition by trusted area contractors and vendors to replace damaged building materials. 

Call SERVPRO of Port Jefferson today at (631) 476-5300. We can mobilize a team as soon as possible whenever you require storm flood damage assistance.

SERVPRO Equipment and Skilled Technicians Save the Day Following Storm Damage in Rocky Point Properties

5/15/2022 (Permalink)

Act quickly when storm damage and excess water affect the home. Our technicians arrive equipped to tackle the water removal task. We are standing by.

Evaporative Drying after Extraction of Flooded Rocky Point Homes

Recovering after a water loss incident is not the same from one Rocky Point home to the next, as different areas and materials can become damaged by migrating floodwater. Our SERVPRO technicians have extensive experience and training through the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) to provide a more efficient approach after flooding.

Removing the water vapor from the damaged areas is only part of the work involved in recovering the flood damage to Rocky Point homes. Dehumidifiers are a crucial part of drying, but evaporative drying and collection methods are only valid after specific milestones have been reached in the recovery of a flood-damaged residence. Removing standing water must occur before any drying methods can get deployed successfully.

Extraction of floodwater depends on the presence of debris and solids in the water, and the location or severity of this standing water. Our SERVPRO technicians have dozens of water removal tools for use, but the most thorough and useful of these are electric sump pumps and gas-powered trash pumps. The choice between these involves several factors, including:

• The severity of the water damage
• The presence of debris or solids in the standing water
• The availability of sufficient power
• The location of the damaged areas

Evaporative drying involves the deployment of multiple air movers through each flooded room. Centrifugal air movers are ideal for removing moisture from wall surfaces and flooring, yet axial air movers are better for a broader damp area. As a vapor, desiccant and refrigerant dehumidifiers can work to either collect this moisture into a tray on the unit or expel it as an exhaust to the exterior of the house.

As water restoration specialists, we can deploy drying and extraction strategies that save time and money for our customers. Give our SERVPRO of Port Jefferson team a call anytime that we can be of help. We have hundreds of air movers, dehumidifiers, and other specialty drying tools to manage water loss scenarios fast. Call us today at (631) 476-5300.

Super Easy Ways to Learn About Storm Damage and Ridding it from Your Rocky Point Home

4/14/2022 (Permalink)

Mitigate storm damage quickly by contacting SERVPRO.

Experts Can Restore Your Home After Flood Damage in Rocky Point

East Coast homeowners are usually prepared for the worst, especially during the fall and winter storm season. However, even with extensive preparation, unexpected situations can cause damage to your home. A fallen tree branch or wind damage from storms can be enough to compromise roofing and allow rainwater into your home. This situation can be particularly stressful during large, slow-moving storm systems.

If your Rocky Point home needs flood damage mitigation, you can count on SERVPRO to provide swift relief from structural damage and microbes. Thoroughly trained, IICRC-certified technicians work with property owners and insurance adjusters to preserve your residence and belongings per local, state, and federal codes. No matter the disaster, the emphasis is placed on restoration over replacement whenever possible. We adhere to the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification guidelines as we offer the best services possible.

Tarping Your Roof After Storms Hit

While SERVPRO also offers tarping services, here is how you can do it yourself in the event of an emergency: 

• Cover existing openings with plywood first, and cut it to size if needed. Secure the wood with 2"-3" deck screws every 6"-12" into the sheathing and trusses.
• When placing the tarp, make sure the length goes 1' past the roof's edge and weigh it down.
• Use a vent pipe or furring strip to help secure the tarp on the undamaged side of your roofing. If using a vent pipe, add hurricane tape or a vent cover to make it watertight. Wrap the tarp tightly and temporarily screw it to your roof with two or three long screws. 
• Pull the tarp taut and secure with screws every 8"-12", then 2"-3" away from each edge. 

What SERVPRO Can Do for You

SERVPRO technicians can come to you, whether during or after storms, to mitigate water damage to your home. SERVPRO can use its own generators to power sump pumps and other equipment even during power outages. These practices ensure that you get the relief you need from water damage, microbes, and mold growth. Waterlogged insulation from roof damage can be vacuumed up for drying and is often salvageable, particularly if it is made of fiberglass. Other insulation materials are more likely to require replacement. Drying insulation is always done on a case-by-case basis. Often, labor may be more expensive than new material purchases.

After cleaning and disinfection, centrifugal air movers and industrial-grade dehumidifiers are used to dry the structure. If odors persist after flooding, ultra-low volume (ULV) fogging may be used to eliminate odors. Commercial box fans circulate fresh, clean outdoor air through the structure for several cycles to maximize safety and cleanliness.

SERVPRO of Port Jefferson strives to leave your home looking "Like it never even happened." When or where the disaster occurs, you can call (631) 476-5300 for fast cleanup. 

No More Mistakes with Flood Damage Remediation in Ridge

4/14/2022 (Permalink)

When flooding affects your home or business, quick water removal is key to successful results. Contact SERVPRO right away.

Flood Damage Gurus in Ridge Define Chemical Terms Used in the Restoration Industry

The state of New York sits on the east coast, making the region susceptible to being negatively affected by tropical storms coming off of the Atlantic and their after-effects. Many conditions created during thunderstorms can ruin things on your property and cause you extensive flood damage. Once a storm hits your neighborhood and you notice problems, the best idea is to call in a professional restoration company such as SERVPRO.

Mitigating flood damage in Ridge takes the proper know-how and industrially advanced equipment. Our SERVPRO technicians have experience dealing with various types of restoration projects, and we have the appropriate training to put the industry's most advanced technology into use. In addition to the equipment and tools of the trade we have at our disposal, we also use a variety of chemical products during restoration to make sure to transform your house back to the way it was before the storm caused destruction, "Like it never even happened."

When utilizing chemicals to aid us in our restoration efforts, it helps you, the homeowner, to have some basic knowledge of the terminology used when describing chemical products in the industry.

The following is a list of some of the terms our IICRC trained team employs in the mitigation business and what they mean:

• Antimicrobial - Antimicrobials can be defined as "against microbes," and they are used to prevent the development of microorganisms like fungi.
• Disinfectants - These chemical products are antimicrobials that can destroy 99% of organisms they come into contact with, but they may not be useful when attempting to eliminate fungal or bacterial spores.
• Sanitizers - Sanitizers are antimicrobial chemicals designed to bring the level of microorganisms down to a level that is considered acceptable by public health authorities.
• Sterilizers - A sterilizer destroys all microorganisms, including bacteria and fungi spores, but they can only be used on surfaces not made from organic materials.
• -stats - Mildewstats and fungistats prevent the growth of fungi on organic materials but do not necessarily kill them.
• -cides - Biocides are chemical agents that are constructed to kill living organisms. For example, sporicides are made to destroy and control bacterial and fungal reproductive spores.

Knowing all of the proper terms of any trade can be rough, but if you call in our highly trained team of professionals to help you with your restoration project, we can take care of all the technical parts of the process. We can be reached 24 hours a day and seven days a week by calling SERVPRO of Port Jefferson at (631) 476-5300.

Heavy Storms Bringing Flood Damage? Call Skilled Restoration Technicians to Your Setauket Home!

12/31/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO follows strict IICRC rules and regulations when it comes to storm and flood damage restoration for you home.

Flood Cleanup and Damage Restoration is What SERVPRO Does Best – We are Available 24/7 in Setauket

Any storm with significant wind and rain can bring the potential for flooding in the Setauket area. As a homeowner, you could have a leaking roof due to storms or basement flooding leading to property loss. Unlike a clean water event such as burst pipes, water infiltration from storms brings the potential for hazardous contamination. Cleaning protocols call for much more than a mop, bucket, or wet/dry vacuum to get the job done. SERVPRO has experience and training to handle gray and black water events and any storm flooding debris. We work diligently to lessen the damage, restore your interior, and make it “Like it never even happened.”

All structural elements, building materials, and contents in your home must get addressed and cleaned whenever floodwater touches it. If you have flood damage in Setauket that is overwhelming, our SERVPRO team is there to ensure no area gets overlooked. The crew chief takes the time to inspect the flooring, walls, and other structural elements to determine the safety and the best methods for drying and restoration. Other areas we look at include:

• Furnishings
• Carpeting
• Clothing
• Appliances
• Mattresses
• Utensils, toys, and other various contents

While some items listed can easily be cleaned and sanitized, such as appliances and furniture, some may call for disposal. Mattresses, stuffed animals, and other porous items are often difficult to achieve a thorough clean. For example, when an area rug gets saturated and left to sit in contaminated water for over 24 hours, it may no longer be salvageable.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned

Whether you call for water removal services on your first floor or basement flooding, we follow IICRC protocols for cleaning and restoration. We also clean, sanitize, and deodorize all surface areas to eliminate bacteria and foul, musty odors. 

SERVPRO of Port Jefferson has emergency-ready crews on stand-by to handle storm flood damage at your home. Call us at (631) 476-5300 when you need us.

Can I Get Water Damage from an Ice Dam Forming on my Roof in Setauket?

12/20/2021 (Permalink)

Storm damage with frozen pipes is no DIY project. Let SERVPRO trained technicians handle all the work for you.

SERVPRO Can Provide Water Damage Repairs if your Home in Setauket Gets an Ice Dam

It is common for a house to get storm damage in the summertime after a severe thunderstorm or flooding conditions.Mother Nature can also bring about adverse weather conditions in the winter that could negatively affect your home. Most people who live in colder climates realize the potential risks of a pipe freeze. But, many don't know that an ice dam phenomenon can also create problems with your structure.

Our SERVPRO technicians find that frozen pipes and ice damming in Setauket are the two most common issues in the winter. Ice dams can form in the winter after a snowstorm when the weather warms up and the snow and ice melt. The heat from your house can warm up the center of the roof and cause the snow to melt. But, if the section of your roof that hangs out past the walls stays cold, the snow there will not melt. Then, once the water from the top of the roof flows down, it can freeze on the cooler part of the roof and prevent the liquid from draining.

The moisture can freeze in your gutter and the colder parts of your roof and hold water on your shingles. When your roofing materials stay wet, they can lose their structural integrity. Mold can also form if wooden items stay wet for more than two days.

If some of your building materials got damaged due to an ice dam forming on your roof, SERVPRO could help. We can first inspect your building and determine what issues the ice dam caused. Then we can help you restore your house to its preloss state by conducting the following procedures:

• Attic Mold Remediation
• Flood Damage Restoration
• Water Extraction
• Mold Inspections
• Emergency Services to Repair Water Damage

If you ever notice your roof leaking after an ice dam forms, call SERVPRO of Port Jefferson at (631) 476-5300. 

Can SERVPRO Help with Flood Damage Caused by Recent Storms in Setauket?

8/13/2021 (Permalink)

When floodwater damages your basement, you need a professional outfit. SERVPRO techs are ready at a moment's notice.

SERVPRO Provides Storm Damage Restoration in Setauket

Even small amounts of water seeping into a basement area after a storm in Setauket causes a great deal of damage if it is not removed immediately. Heavy rain can overwhelm storm drains, water pools around foundations and always follow the least resistant path. Water leaks into your basement around basement windows, cracks in the walls, or comes up through drains in the floor, causing damage to flooring materials and contents resting on the floor.

SERVPRO provides emergency services flood damage mitigation in Setauket and surrounding areas. We can respond in less than four hours from your initial call and begin removing water and moisture from your home. Don’t hesitate to call. Take action immediately and significantly reduce the amount of damage from water seeping throughout the basement.

Water damage mitigation can be significantly enhanced by removing the water and moisture before it has a chance to distribute throughout the basement. Mold can begin growing in less than 24 hours in a humid basement. Flooring materials can absorb moisture, swell and buckle in hardwood flooring, and carpets can delaminate.

Fast action makes a huge difference in the amount of damage. We provide the following services:

• Water clean up
• Basement flooding cleanup
• Water damage remediation

Call SERVPRO of Port Jefferson for flood damage in Setauket and surrounding areas. We can help 24/7. Call (631) 476-5300.

Where Can Property Owners Seek Assistance When They Need Flood Damage Restoration?

7/23/2021 (Permalink)

When flood damage takes over your home, call on our skilled experts for remediation assistance right away.

Property Owners Can Hire SERVPRO to Assist Them with Flood Damage Restoration in Rocky Point

Of the many disasters that can ruin a home, flooding is the least predictable. A storm can weaken building materials, leading to points of failure. It may be possible to salvage your house even if you need to dispose of some appliances, furniture, and items like curtains and carpeting. 

SERVPRO can help you to deal with storm flood damage in Rocky Point. Our flooding repair professionals have adequate equipment and training to eliminate floodwater, which might contain harmful bacteria. Our storm repair damage involves mitigating those damages. Rapid water extraction and structural drying can save you from facing thousands of dollars in repairs or mold remediation. 

A storm might cause branches to fall on your backyard, and floodwater may bring rocks and mud to your driveway. Our restorers can use power washers powered by diesel or gasoline to remove mud on your driveway and sidewalk. 

Why SERVPRO Restorers Act Fast 

Our restorers act fast when handling flood damage since we are aware that water can:

• Cause wood rooting
• Affect structural stability
• Cause persisting odor

These effects are expensive and can occur within 48 hours. SERVPRO restorers always dry all parts, even behind drywalls where moisture could be hiding. We can drill a small hole using a hand drill and use motorized inspection cameras to determine the moisture levels. 

A flood can cause expensive damage. Contact SERVPRO of Port Jefferson at (631) 476-5300 for affordable flood damage restoration. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster. 

Extreme Weather Causing Flash Flood Damage in Setauket

6/24/2021 (Permalink)

Do you know how to dry hardwood floors? SERVPRO does! Call us today.

Let Us Keep You Safe Through your Setauket Storm Damage

If heavy rains and flash flooding in Setauket recurs this spring and summer, your home might be in its path. Our company has come to the aid of many in our community following storm-related flood disasters. We support the work of our technicians with courses approved by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Reconstruction Certification (IICRC) and state-of-the-art equipment. Our well-qualified employees and hardware permit our team to mitigate and remediate all aspects of seasonal flooding.

Flood damage in Setauket can be exacerbated if a storm surge accompanies fierce straight line or rotating winds and torrential rain. Residences near the water can suffer from this phenomenon despite the natural islands, reefs, and marshlands that provide some protection under normal circumstances. Adding saltwater to the mix of rain and runoff can set the stage for long-term damage to many conventional building materials, including wood and concrete.

Storm Damage Restoration

Wood can experience saltwater defibration, also known as “fuzzy wood” or “salt kill.” It looks similar to a fungal infestation, but our SERVPRO technicians know it develops when saltwater damages the cellular structure of wooden building materials. The wood weakens as its structure changes over time. Flushing storm surge-damaged structural components with fresh water before proceeding with water removal and drying can limit the issues.

In a similar manner, concrete, bricks, and mortar can deteriorate when flooded with saltwater. Rainstorms moving over Long Island Sound and Smithtown Bay can pull moisture from the ocean; the precipitation made saltier than typical showers flooding into homes through foundations and damaged exteriors. Concrete, bricks, and cinder block break down slowly, but failing to address the flooding when it happens means these materials could develop severe structural problems leading over time to collapse. SERVPRO stands ready to assess the condition of your home in the aftermath of flood damage looking at both current and long-term risks. We have the knowledge, experience, and tools to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Trust SERVPRO of Port Jefferson to manage your flood damage scenario with care, compassion, and application of the restoration industry best practices. We are just a call away at (631) 476-5300.

Why Is Quick Action Necessary When You Experience Flood Damage in Setauket?

6/10/2021 (Permalink)

As we enter storm season, know that SERVPRO is always ready to restore your home.

SERVPRO Can Respond Quickly to Restore Your Flood Damaged Setauket Home

Most Setauket residents feel helpless when they experience flood damage. Since you might not be thinking straight when you encounter such a disaster, working with an experienced restoration company such as SERVPRO can help. Our work is to ensure your property becomes safe within the shortest time possible and minimize the damage which might be ongoing even when the flood stops.

Which Flood Damage Restoration Services Should Setauket Residents Expect from SERVPRO?

Our SERVPRO technicians use multiple flood damage remediation techniques when restoring properties in Setauket. As floodwater moves, it comes into contact with several contaminants such as raw sewage, soils, and much more. It means if the water is not quickly extracted from your property, additional damage such as mold growth may occur. Some of the tasks we perform while at the site include:

• Using shovels and other appropriate methods, we extract mud and soiling from your property.
• We can use pumps and other water extraction techniques to remove water from your basement.
• Since carpets that come into contact with flood water cannot be restored, we remove and discard them.
• After using fans and space heaters to dry the rooms, we can apply antimicrobials to lower the chances of mold damage.

The team at SERVPRO of Port Jefferson is ready 24/7 and uses advanced equipment and techniques to restore flood-damaged properties. Call (631) 476-5300 to work with a company you can trust.

We Save Flooring Materials During Rocky Point Flooding Cleanup

2/22/2021 (Permalink)

Flood damage and carpet do not mix. SERVPRO has the latest in technology and equipment for any size flood damaged home.

SERVPRO takes on the challenge to save your floors

Contamination from floodwaters is one aspect of damage to flooring materials in a home. Modern surfaces like laminate flooring, engineered planks, and resilient flooring also required inspection, cleaning, and possible removal. 

Flooring materials often represent the most formidable challenge during one of our flooding cleanup jobs in Rocky Point. With just a few hours of exposure to water, most flooring types used in local homes can begin to break down and suffer damages. Over many years of handling these situations, SERVPRO has developed a wide range of strategies for reversing the effects of flooding.

In years past, wood floors would often require full replacement due to warping and bending of boards and destruction of finishes. Today, SERVPRO technicians employ a specialized drying strategy that stops wood floors from drying in sub-optimal ways. Coupled with our expert refinishing work, this means that we can save most wood floors after a flood.

Carpeting can pose an even more significant challenge. Although carpeting can be easy to replace when needed, we try to avoid replacements whenever possible. In many cases, we cut out and replace only the carpet's damaged section while leaving the rest intact.

SERVPRO of Port Jefferson is ready to help with whatever damage situation your home may face. Call us at (631) 476-5300 for our 24/7 services.

Ready at All Hours for Flood Removal in Setauket

2/10/2021 (Permalink)

Flood removal is no DIY project. SERVPRO technicians are trained and experience with the correct procedures that need to be done.

A community divided: Setauket in the Revolutionary War.

Modern Setauket is a comfortable and friendly place where neighbors get along, and serious troubles are rare. Centuries ago, one might paint a very different picture of the town. During the American Revolution, the small town of Setauket became the center of multiple efforts by both sides, leading to a unique and intriguing history.

Early in the war, Setauket was a significant Loyalist outpost on Long Island. British troops could land safely at the village and were warmly welcomed by settlers and taverns local to the area. At one point, the citizenry even repelled an attack by a small Patriot force that attempted to eliminate the stronghold.

However, various actions by the British ultimately led to a change in attitude. The citizens, still outwardly projecting loyalty to Britain, became some of the revolution's most important spies. The infamous Culper Spy Ring was primarily composed of Setauket residents, and this vital group revealed many crucial plans during the war, including the treason of Benedict Arnold. Throughout all of this activity, the spies put on smiling faces towards the redcoats visiting their taverns and markets.

From shipbuilding to tourist traps, the Setauket shores have always provided for us.

As one of the earliest settlements in the United States, Setauket has a long history of changing populations and industries. One of the most long-standing facets of the community that only recently faded out was the shipbuilding industry. Artisans from Setauket built fishing and ferrying vessels from the earliest days of the settlement, over a century before the American Revolution. As time went on, this activity only increased: during the 19th century, the town's docks even began to produce full-scale naval vessels and merchant fleets.

In the 20th century, shipbuilding elsewhere began to outcompete Long Island industries. Many other towns in the area suffered economic loss as a result. Setauket, by contrast, experienced a mostly seamless transition into a tourist destination. New York City residents found a quaint and comfortable destination that could easily be reached via a morning train ride. Restaurants, inns, and beachside activities all flourished as our town became a hotspot for weekend retreats.

Eventually, many tourists chose to move here, bringing their families with them. Thus, the modern and comfortable town of Setauket started to look how it does today.

Setauket flood removal when you need it most

Flooding rarely happens at an opportune time. Whether in the middle of a hurricane or the dead of night, most of the flood removal calls in Setauket we receive are long after most other businesses have closed. As part of our mission to provide reliable 24/7 care for local homeowners, we stay ready at even the worst hours to respond to your call for help.

In addition to keeping our staff ready to respond to your call, we stage and prep much of our equipment, such as:

• Water extraction pumps
• Safety equipment
• Industrial dehumidifiers

Getting these treatments into your home as soon as possible could save you thousands in restoration expenses. Call SERVPRO of Port Jefferson at (631) 476-5300 for emergency help.

My Ranch Style Home Was Hit Hard By Storms – How Does The Flooding Impact My Home?

9/11/2020 (Permalink)

When a storm damages your Stony Brook home, call SERVPRO we can be right over.

Homes in Stony Brook Can Be Hit By Storms at Any Time – Flooding Can Do Serious Damage to a Residence if Left Unattended 

Stony Brook started as a resort area and grew into a hamlet that caters to tourists. As a coastal town, storms could put all of that to a stop with severe flooding. According to RiskFinder.org, Stony Brook is in the top half of Cities in NY for total exposure of homes on land below 6 feet for cities under 100,000 in population. Over the past 34 years, Stony Brook has had approximately 5” of sea-level rise. This means that storm surges and high tides are at an increase, and the storms are becoming more severe.

 What Are Some Main Concerns With Flooding?

With any flood damage in Stony Brook, contaminated water is one of the main concerns. There are three types of water that SERVPRO deals with in the restoration business. These include:

•   Category I – Clean Water – this is water from a non-contaminated source such as the kitchen sink.
•   Category II – Gray Water – this is water that is “dirty” but not a biohazard. Examples are dishwater, washing machine overflow, or toilet with urine only.
•   Category III – Blackwater – highly contaminated and unsafe. Floodwater and raw sewage are in this category. Clean and gray water can turn into black if left untreated.

Storms can cause flash flooding and bring water surging through your home. With that comes things such as bacteria, dirt, debris, dead animals, and chemical waste. Avoid contact with flood water if at all possible. Our crew has the proper PPE to safely deal with the situation.

Another concern is structural damage. Moisture can cause structural components to weaken and deteriorate the longer they are exposed to it. Construction materials and the content of your home can deteriorate rapidly in standing water. Secondary damage, such as mold, is always a potential problem with floods. Mold develops in as little as 24 hours and can cause health effects. The sooner you call SERVPRO the better to avoid problems like this.

 What Does SERVPRO Do to Mitigate Flood Damage?

Safety is the first concern. When our technicians arrive on the scene, any emergency mitigation needs are addressed. This can include tarping the roof to prevent more water from entering the home. Containment is another process that is often used to keep moisture from spreading to unaffected areas. The crew ensures that there are no electrical safety hazards. 

One of the problems with flood damage is that porous material such as sheetrock, insulation, and drywall absorb the contaminated water. These have to get removed as quickly as possible as they continue to wick moisture. Unlike clean water damage, there are items that cannot merely be dried and cleaned with flooding. The technicians typically implement the following processes:

• Muck Out – The removal of mud, silt, and debris that floodwaters deposit in a home. 
• Water Extraction – SERVPRO has several pump options, including trash, truck-mounted, and submersible. 
• Removal – Items and materials that cannot be salvaged are removed and disposed of properly.
• Cleaning – Scrubbing the interior of the home. This includes walls and floors.
• Sanitizing – Disinfecting takes place several times. Antimicrobials and antifungal agents are used.
• Content Management –Items are cleaned on-site if possible. If not, they are removed to our warehouse for cleaning.
• Deodorizing – This can include air scrubbers, time-released products, and other odor removal methods.
• Restoration – Rebuilding and restoring the interior of the home to preloss condition.

Giving You Peace of Mind

When floodwaters overtake your home, it can be devastating. It may mean you cannot stay in your home until the flood restoration is complete. Some things cannot be salvaged when it comes to flooding, such as carpet. That can be difficult to deal with too. Your family’s safety is your primary concern. The last thing you need to worry about is whether or not your house is going to be taken care of properly. SERVPRO provides peace of mind for our customers. You can trust our technicians to treat your home like they would their own. We have homes and families in the same town as you do. We know the importance of needing your residence returned to you so life can continue as normal.

 Flooding can throw your family into chaos. Once everyone is safe, and you are able, give SERVPRO a call. The faster the restoration intervention begins, the fewer problems there are in the end. Our Green Team is available 24/7. We are typically at your door within a few hours of you contacting us. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.

 Contact SERVPRO of Port Jefferson at (631) 476-5300 for quality flood damage service.

Can My Family's Heirlooms and Important Documents Be Saved after a Flood?

8/24/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO to rescue your water damaged documents, photos, and possession anywhere in the Stony Brook area. We can help.

SERVPRO Provides the Best Possible Restoration Services for Possessions and Contents in Your Stony Brook Home

Floodwaters flowing through your Stony Brook home can damage many of your most essential items. Also, there are often many pollutants absorbed by the floodwaters. These contaminants range from mud to a range of chemicals, as well as biological material. Many of these chemicals and biological elements can be quite hazardous to your health.

SERVPRO has worked with many families over the years who have experienced flood damage in Stony Brook. We understand how valuable family heirlooms, photos, various documents, diplomas, marriage certificates, and much more can be. We work with family members to identify these items and recover as many as possible. It is important to note that not everything can be recovered or restored to their original condition due to moisture damage or contamination from various pollutants.

When Can I Enter My Home to Retrieve Items Important to My Family?

We assess every flood-damaged home before our team enters the house. We check for electrical and fuel hazards, dangerous chemicals, and areas where our team and homeowners could injure themselves. It may not be appropriate for homeowners to enter. In these situations, SERVPRO can work closely with the homeowner to identify the needed items and their location within the home. We evaluate all contents to determine if they are damaged beyond repair or can be disinfected and cleaned.

All items that are considered valuable are documented and removed if possible, with the homeowner’s approval for disinfection and cleaning. Flood damage may also require removal of flooring, flood cuts on walls, and damaged furniture. Once flood cleanup is completed, drying and restoration activities can commence.

SERVPRO can provide initial flood damage cleanup, removal services, and restoration services. We can also manage the reconstruction services and tradespeople required to restore your home or business to its preloss condition.

Call SERVPRO of Port Jefferson (631) 476-5300 to assist with the restoration of your flood-damaged home.

Can One Company Handle Damage to Both My House and My Things After Storm Damage and Flooding?

8/12/2020 (Permalink)

You can rest assured that your home is in good hands with our experienced SERVPRO technicians. We are available 24/7.

Do Not Juggle the Competing Interests of Your House and Its Contents at a Stressful Time-- SERVPRO Provides Comprehensive Mitigation and Remediation Services for Storm-Related Flood Damage.

It is the time of year we hunker down in anticipation of the Atlantic hurricane and tropical storm systems pummeling Rocky Point and other communities on Long Island Sound. If your home lies within the path of the torrential rains and fierce, sustained winds possible during these weather events, you might need to cope with overland flooding, foundation seepage, and water loss from structural storm damage. Even if you move your most valuable and vulnerable furnishings and possessions above the basement or even first-floor level when your roof fails, windows or doors blow out, or siding tears off and disintegrates, storm water flooding finds those carefully stored items. 

Who Can Help When Both Structures and Contents Have Severe Flood Damage?

Disaster recovery companies take on a staggeringly complex job when homeowners in Rocky Point seek flood damage assistance. One of the ways to manage any complicated challenge is to invoke the principle of "divide and conquer." Making a decision to move your electronics, furniture, window coverings, rugs, clothing, household goods, and other personal possessions to a space outside of your flood-damaged house is an excellent option to give both your household goods and your home's structure a fighting chance at speedy recovery under the circumstances. The restoration company with which you partner must be able to transport, track, process, remediate, and store the items moved securely for this opportunity to work.

How Do Professionals Manage a Pack-Out During Flood Damage Mitigation and Remediation?

SERVPRO has a robust protocol for move-outs during all types of disaster emergency services. The Contents Claim Inventory Service (CCIS) we employ provides a variety of ways to document what is removed, the conditions of the items packed and moved, and the processing that our specialized contents technicians complete for each article inventoried. This comprehensive system is beneficial as we correspond with your insurance company, providing real-time evidence to form a basis for the carrier to pay for restoration interventions or to approve a claim value for items that cannot endure appropriate restoration.

How Does the Pack-Out Work? Do I Have Responsibilities?

Our managers work closely with you to determine what items are of the highest priority to move to a safer place. Particularly with categories of property like documents and seasonal clothing, we want to make sure that you can have access to needed articles quickly. Because of this goal, we ask you to sort out the possibly needed items or give us instructions to effect this for you. The production crew does the inventorying, packing, labeling, and transporting. When the boxes and other containers arrive at our production facility, they have been inventoried as follows:

• Written lists are produced for some items -- including explanations and instructions from you, if applicable, to be followed by our crew members
• Digital photographs are taken at the time pack-out and throughout the remediation process -- an excellent way to document the original damaged condition and the results of interventions
• Barcoding -- perfect for matching up items pre and post-processing
• Container labels -- definitely needed if we retrieve items for you out of our facility before pack-back and useful when our crew reintroduces the packed-out inventory to your cleaned, disinfected, and dried out house

What Is the Overall Procedure at My House While Contents Are Managed Off-Site?

We assess and control safety hazards, and then our crews dig in, perhaps literally, if silt and mud or other debris are issues. We then follow this general agenda:

• We pump and/or extract visible standing water (containing and disposing of it per local regulations)
• We use moisture detectors and meters to locate hidden water and measure moisture content for baseline drying data
• We use controlled demolition tactics like flood cuts and drilled holes to release the water trapped behind structures and provide better airflow for structural drying
• We clean and disinfect soiled surfaces with EPA-registered products using appropriate techniques and tools
• We design a scientifically-based drying plan and implement it with air movers, hearts, and dehumidifiers

SERVPRO of Port Jefferson is ready for everything severe storms and flood damage can bring to our region's residents. Call (631) 476-5300 to explore how we can clean and dry both your home and your possessions.

What Should I Do When Water Comes Into My House From the Ground After a Storm?

7/22/2020 (Permalink)

We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster.

For Flood Damage Mitigation After Moisture From the Ground Enters Your Stony Brook Home Call SERVPRO.

When severe thunderstorms strike the Stony Brook area, a significant amount of rainfall can likely come in a short period. Excessive rain can cause water to rise from the ground and enter your dwelling.

How can you remove moisture from my home that entered from the ground?

During flood damage repair in Stony Brook, our SERVPRO technicians can start the process by thoroughly inspecting your home for moisture. We can use sensors and moisture meters to detect moisture in your building materials, such as your carpet, drywall, and wooden structural components. Once we determine where the H2O went and what items got wet, we can then proceed with the extraction process to remove the water while it is still a liquid. Next, we can dry out your building materials by using a combination of air movers and dehumidifiers. However, since muddy water coming from the ground could be contaminated, we must remove any porous substances like your carpet and decontaminate any other wet materials with specialized chemical products.

What types of products do you use to sanitize my home?

Phenolics: Phenol disinfectants are best used if they are in a mixture that has a pH of six or seven. Phenolics like Sporicidin can be effective against a broad spectrum of bacteria, viruses, fungi, and fungal spores.

Chlorines: Chlorine-based products such as bleach or Vanquish can also be used to fight against several different types of bacteria, fungi, and viruses. However, chlorines have a strong odor, can irritate skin and respiratory systems, and can dyes and dull finished wood surfaces.

Quaternary Compounds: These disinfectants have a pleasant odor and can even counteract foul odors. Quaternary solutions work best in the nine to ten pH range and are effective against a wide variety of viruses, fungi, and bacteria.

If you ever find that muddy water has entered your home after a rainstorm, call SERVPRO of Port Jefferson at (631) 476-5300 24/7.

Learn more about Stony Brook.

What is Involved with Professional Flood Restoration in Setauket?

5/17/2020 (Permalink)

Regardless whether the flooding came from within or outside the home, SERVPRO can remediate the damage. Call immediately.

SERVPRO Follows Innovative Restoration Protocols to Address Storm Flood Damage to Your Setauket Home

Water remains one of the most devastating elements to Setauket homes whenever there is a plumbing leak or a tub overflows. However, storm flooding is a whole other issue that generally calls for professional attention to get it cleaned up properly. Whether your basement floods or water comes into your home through the main level or significant damage to your roof, a variety of materials and belongings are affected.

What Can the Professionals Do?

Calling in the help of SERVPRO when you need to clean up storm damage in your Setauket home ensures you have reliable results. We not only remove the water for you but also make sure that we mitigate secondary damage from mold, warped flooring, and more.

How Do You Remove Water from My Interior?

When you call us for emergency flood damage service in Setauket, you can rest assured that we are available 24/7. Our team arrives with the Green Fleet loaded with the latest technology for restoration services, including:

•   Industrial-strength pumping devices help us extract hundreds to thousands of gallons of water, including debris contained within.
•   Weighted extractors, or rovers, use the weight of the technician to push water out of carpets as well as the carpet padding beneath. 
•   Various pumping devices, such as submersible pumps, allow us to get into awkward or tight areas, such as crawlspaces.

Will Storm Flooding Damage My Flooring?

Any water poses a threat to flooring; it depends on how much water is present as well as the materials that it comes into contact with. Floodwater from a storm can migrate from one area to the next following the path of least resistance. Our skilled water restoration technicians (WRT) have the experience of looking for hidden moisture in some of the more common areas, such as:

•   Carpeting
•   Carpet padding
•   Behind the baseboards
•   Under tile flooring
•   Subflooring
•   Throughout the joists of the floor and into your crawlspace or basement

We Want Our Clients to Know How Thorough Storm Flood Water Extraction Is Critical

Whenever you have flooding from a storm, the longer the water sits, the more damage there is. When you have water extraction that gets executed quickly, it is easier to limit the secondary damage to your structure and the materials within.

Floodwaters are known for contaminants of all kinds. Because of this, our technicians usually apply treatments to the water to cut back on contagions before starting the mitigation process. With this type of water loss event, our team always wears personal protective equipment (PPE). This includes:

•   Eye protection
•   Respirators
•   Shoe coverings (to keep the transmission of debris from taking place one room to the next)

It is not uncommon for the storm flood water in the home initially to recede and migrate into your structure. Our skilled technicians understand water movement within the home, which is why we use powerful moisture detection equipment that helps us determine the full scope of the area that must be mitigated.

What are Some of the Special Drying Methods You Use?

If the carpeting or tile flooring in your home gets removed, we must concentrate on ensuring the subfloor below is dry. We prep the area so that the floorcoverings may be replaced. Depending on the type of surface that requires drying, we may use specialized applications like:

•   Plastic tenting over damp areas so that we can direct air to the exact points that need drying
•   Drying mats on your subflooring or hardwood floors
•   InjectiDry system for forcing dry, warm air into smaller spaces

Will All of My Belongings Get Dried?

SERVPRO technicians always work to salvage whatever belongings we can throughout your home. Whether or not we can dry the wet items in your home depends on the materials they are made from. For example:

•   Porous items do not fare well after they have been exposed to contaminated storm waters, which is why the restoration possibilities are limited.
•   Non-porous items often respond well to a variety of cleaning and drying methods, which is why they have a higher potential for a positive outcome. 

No matter what items are impacted throughout your home, our team stops at nothing to salvage whatever possible. We use a wide range of cleaning methods, including robust anti-microbial solutions and biocides, to ensure all contaminants get removed adequately.

Throughout the cleanup and drying process, all of your contents and any materials that get disposed of are adequately documented. This includes photographs that help you with all of the filings of insurance claims related to the storm flood loss event.

Our team at SERVPRO of Port Jefferson is available 24/7 to help with any emergency storm flood damage that you need to be cleaned up. To have a crew deployed to your location, give us a call at (631) 476-5300.

What Can I Do After an Ice Dam Forms on My Roof in Setauket?

4/30/2020 (Permalink)

Regardless of how the moisture got into your home, team SERVPRO can help. Contact us right away if you're facing water damage from an ice dam.

SERVPRO Can Help You Find And Mitigate Any Issues Caused By an Ice Dam Developing on The Roof of Your Setauket House

If an ice dam forms on your roof after snow hits the area, moisture can back up on parts of it and cause you several issues. If enough water is prevented from flowing off of your roof, it can saturate and ruin some of your building materials like your shingles. Water can then follow gravity and make its way into your attic or even the interior of your home.

How Do Ice Dams Form?

Ice dams can often be the cause of flood damage in your Setauket residence, and they can form after a snowstorm strikes and melting occurs. When the snow starts to melt on the top of your roof, but the lower section of your roof is still cold, a block of ice can form. As the snow melts above it, the ice block or dam gets bigger and bigger as moisture is added to it and then freezes.

What Should I Do If My Roof Starts To Leak?

    Call A Professional Restoration Company: Our SERVPRO team can help you remove the ice dam using ice melt or a steamer and mitigate any other issues caused.

    Temporarily Seal The Leak: Before we can begin our restoration efforts, we must keep water from continuing to enter your structure.

    Inspect For Problems: We can use moisture sensors and thermal imaging cameras to figure out where the water went and what building materials and contents got wet.

How Can You Remove Moisture From My Attic?

•     Remove Saturated Drywall: If your drywall or other ceiling materials get saturated, then we can remove the wet sections to create a hole to your attic.
•     Remove Wet Insulation: Most fiberglass insulation loses its R-value when it gets wet, so it must be removed and replaced.
•     Set Up Drying Equipment Inside The Attic: We can set up air movers and dehumidifiers inside your attic to dry out your roofing and trusses.

If you ever notice your roof in Miller Place or Middle Island is leaking due to an ice dam, call SERVPRO of Port Jefferson at (631) 476-5300 any day of the week.

Click here for more information about Setauket. 

What to Avoid When Dealing with Flooding In Rocky Point

11/10/2019 (Permalink)

Changing weather conditions can cause an ice dam situation to occur which can bring flooding into your home. Call SERVPRO immediately for services.

Warmer Winter Temperatures can Exacerbate any Ice Dams and Increase their Damaging Effects in Rocky Point 

While hearing forecasts calling for a warmer winter this year in Rocky Point sounds encouraging, the overnight temperatures are still quite likely to fall below freezing. The contrast between warmer days and still-cold nights can increase the amount of damage caused by ice dams. 

When ice dams form on top of your home in Rocky Point, storm damage can happen to the roof and also to the attic below. Other areas of your home can also suffer because of ice dams. SERVPRO technicians study to learn the most effective methods to mitigate damage caused by storms, including situations involving flooding. 

Precipitation that freezes overnight on top of your roof can develop cracks that let melted snow and ice drain through to your shingles during the daytime, only for refreezing the following night to occur. This refreezing forces the trapped water upwards, including underneath the shingles. This action can lead to eer-widening gaps between shingles, and the development of a pathway that water can easily follow. 

This water does not sit inside the space between shingles, but trickles down into the lower components of the roof. The attic and its contents can harbor moisture from ice dams. Both immediate damage can happen, as well as these materials becoming a source of ongoing moisture that can affect the rest of the home. 

One sign that your home has developed an ice dam is a stained ceiling. This type of stain is often mistaken for mold because of its dark color. Another sign is a bowed ceiling. However, either of these can happen from overhead leaks. Our technicians can inspect these issues and provide you with more information. 

Flooded homes often develop problems with mold and musty smells, and ice dams can create similar issues. SERVPRO teams can get these problems cleaned up for you, and also have our building services team repair your roof. Because microbes must have moisture to thrive and expand, drying the area out after repairing the roof protects your property more thoroughly than merely having the roof fixed. 

Our Odor Control Technician (OCT) can provide effective deodorization. The OCT works on odors at their source. With flood damage, the affected materials and belongings require direct cleaning or treatment. Depending on the situation, our OCT might use one or a combination of these methods:

• fogging, either ULV or thermal,
• time-release gel packets,
• essential oils,
• encapsulation via liquid sprays, or
• hydroxyl generators.

Combining odor control methods with cleaning, drying out, painting, and roof repairs restores your house “Like it never even happened.” SERVPRO of Port Jefferson responds as soon as possible to neighborhoods near us, including Setauket, Ridge, and Miller Place when storms damage your property. Call us at (631) 476-5300 because We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Click here for more information about Rocky Point.

How To Prepare For A Winter Storm

1/2/2019 (Permalink)

Tips from the American Red Cross on how to protect your home:

• Learn how to protect pipes from freezing

• Make sure your home heating sources are installed according to local codes and permit requirements and are clean and in working order.

• Make sure your home is properly insulated. Caulk and weather-strip doors and windowsills to keep cold air out.

• Install storm windows or cover windows with plastic from the inside to provide an extra layer of insulation to keep cold air out.

• Consider buying emergency heating equipment, such as a wood- or coal-burning stove or an electric or kerosene heater.  - Stoves must be properly vented and in good working order. Dispose of ashes safely. Keep a supply of wood or coal on hand. - Electric space heaters, either portable or fixed, must be certified by an independent testing laboratory. Plug a heater directly into the wall socket rather than using an extension cord and unplug it when it is not in use. - Use a kerosene heater only if permitted by law in your area; check with your local fire department. Use only the correct fuel for your unit. Properly ventilate the area. Refuel the unit outdoors only, and only when the unit is cool. Follow all of the manufacturer's instructions.

• Consider storing sufficient heating fuel. Regular fuel sources may be cut off. Be cautious of fire hazards when storing any type of fuel.

• If you have a fireplace, consider keeping a supply of firewood or coal. Be sure the fireplace is properly vented and in good working order and that you dispose of ashes safely.

• Consider installing a portable generator, following our safety tips to avoid home fires and carbon monoxide poisoning

• Consider purchasing flood insurance, if you live in a flood-prone area, to cover possible flood damage that may occur during the spring thaw. Homeowners' policies do not cover damage from floods. Ask your insurance agent about the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) if you are at risk. More information on NFIP is available at www.fema.gov/nfip.

How To Prepare For A Winter Storm

12/31/2018 (Permalink)

How to Prepare for a Winter Storm Before it happens….WAY Before

• Make sure you have a 3 day supply of water (3 gallons per person) and easy to prepare food.  Here is my favorite 72 hour no-prep food kit.
• Purchase a NOAA Weather Radio so you can stay aware of the situation if your other communication sources are cut off.  Make sure it is battery operated and that you have extra batteries.
• Make sure you have a good shovel.  You may need to dig yourself out before help gets there.  Or you simply may need to dig out your car!
• Purchase a supply of flashlights (with batteries) and candles.
• Clean and inspect your chimney if you have one.  Make sure you have a supply of wood.
• Make sure you have an ample supply of blankets.  If you power goes out, you will need as many as you can get!
• Clear rain gutters and repair roof leaks.
• Have an alternate way of cooking.  A small “camp stove” works well for short-term emergencies.  You may also consider a butane stove which is safe to use indoors (with a cracked window).  Make sure that whatever you choose that you have enough fuel.  Cook in a well-ventilated garage (like with the door open) to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Install carbon monoxide alarms in your home.  The risk of carbon monoxide poisoning increasing during winter storms as people turn to alternate heat sources.
• Learn how to care for frostbite and hypothermia.  Make sure you click on those links and print those out NOW in case your power goes out during a storm.
• Weatherstrip any drafty doors or windows.
• Purchase rock salt (or something similar) to help you keep walkways safe.
• Install good winter tires on your car and make sure the wipers work well.
• Make sure you have fire extinguishers in your home and that everyone knows how to use them.  House fires are much more common during winter storms as people turn to alternate heat sources.
• Consider purchasing a good supply of heat packs.
• Consider purchasing a kerosene heater.  Make sure it is legal in your area.

Credit: Simple Family Preparedness

Tips for Winter Storms

12/27/2018 (Permalink)

Winter storms create a higher risk of car accidents, hypothermia, frostbite, carbon monoxide poisoning, and heart attacks from overexertion. Winter storms and blizzards can bring extreme cold, freezing rain, snow, ice, and high winds. A winter storm can:

• Last a few hours or several days;
• Knock out heat, power, and communication services; and
• Place older adults, young children, and sick individuals at greater risk.

IF YOU ARE UNDER A WINTER STORM WARNING, FIND SHELTER RIGHT AWAY

• Stay off roads.
• Stay indoors and dress warmly.
• Prepare for power outages.
• Use generators outside only and away from windows.
• Listen for emergency information and alerts.
• Look for signs of hypothermia and frostbite.
• Check on neighbors.

HOW TO STAY SAFE WHEN A WINTER STORM THREATENS:

Prepare NOW

• Know your area’s risk for winter storms. Extreme winter weather can leave communities without utilities or other services for long periods of time.
• Prepare your home to keep out the cold with insulation, caulking, and weather stripping. Learn how to keep pipes from freezing. Install and test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors with battery backups.
• Pay attention to weather reports and warnings of freezing weather and winter storms. Sign up for your community’s warning system. The Emergency Alert System (EAS) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio also provide emergency alerts.
• Gather supplies in case you need to stay home for several days without power. Keep in mind each person’s specific needs, including medication. Do not forget the needs of pets. Have extra batteries for radios and flashlights.
• Create an emergency supply kit for your car. Include jumper cables, sand, a flashlight, warm clothes, blankets, bottled water, and non-perishable snacks. Keep the gas tank full.
• Learn the signs of, and basic treatments for, frostbite and hypothermia.

Survive DURING

• Stay off roads if at all possible. If trapped in your car, then stay inside.
• Limit your time outside. If you need to go outside, then wear layers of warm clothing. Watch for signs of frostbite and hypothermia.
• Avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Only use generators and grills outdoors and away from windows. Never heat your home with a gas stovetop or oven.
• Reduce the risk of a heart attack. Avoid overexertion when shoveling snow.
• Watch for signs of frostbite and hypothermia and begin treatment right away.
• Check on neighbors. Older adults and young children are more at risk in extreme cold.

RECOGNIZE AND RESPOND

• Frostbite causes loss of feeling and color around the face, fingers, and toes.
  • Signs: Numbness, white or grayish-yellow skin, firm or waxy skin
  • Actions: Go to a warm room. Soak in warm water. Use body heat to warm. Do not massage or use a heating pad.
• Hypothermia is an unusually low body temperature. A temperature below 95 degrees is an emergency.
  • Signs: Shivering, exhaustion, confusion, fumbling hands, memory loss, slurred speech, or drowsiness
  • Actions: Go to a warm room. Warm the center of the body first—chest, neck, head, and groin. Keep dry and wrapped up in warm blankets, including the head and neck.
  • www.ready.gov
  • www.SERVPROhicksvilleplainview.com

Tips to stay safe this winter season

12/20/2018 (Permalink)

Are you prepared for winter? 

This upcoming winter season the best way to stay safe and warm is to plan ahead...

Install weather stripping . If you can see light around the edges of your doors, you need new weatherstripping. It will save you hundred of dollars in electrical bills. 

Clean out the gutters, repair roof leaks. Removing debris such as acorns leaves and twigs is very important prior to the winter season to prevent ice dams. 

Service the radiator and maintain antifreeze level.

Keep your gas tank at least half full to avoid ice in the tank and fuel lines, and prepare a winter emergency kit to keep in your car in case you become stranded. 

Above all, be ready to check on family and neighbors who are especially at risk from cold weather hazards like young children, older adults, and the chronically ill. 

No one can stop Mother Nature. However, with a little planning, you will be ready when she hits.  

Water Damage: Category 1

8/31/2018 (Permalink)

There are many ways water damage can affect your home. However, the severity of damage can vary depending on the class of water that caused the damage. There are three categories of water damage:

Category 1: Water damage caused by clean water that does not pose a substantial threat to humans.

Category 2: Water Damage that contains chemicals, biological or physical contaminants that can cause sickness. The term "grey water" is used when dealing with category two water damage.

Category 3: Water damage that is known as "black water". This class of water damage contains unsanitary agents and harmful bacteria that can cause severe discomfort or sickness. Sewage mainly causes this class of water damage.

But what are the leading causes of category one water damage? Broken water supply lines, melting ice/snow, heavy rains, and appliance overflows that do not contain contaminants.
Broken water supply lines are more common than you might think. Water supply lines break for many reasons. However, freezing temperatures are the leading cause. When the air temperature is at or drops below freezing, the ground above the pipes freezes causing increasing external stress.
Heavy rains are another common category one water damage. The city has back up water reservoirs that help to drain water during the heavy rains, but occasionally these systems get backed up which causes flooding.
Can appliances cause water damage? You bet. Besides the washer and the dishwasher, AC units can cause water damage. The condensation that AC units cause can lead to the growth of mold in any part of your house that contains the unit.
Category one water damage, while it is clean water, can cause significant damage to your home or apartment. If you or anyone you know is experiencing water damage, call SERVPRO of Port Jefferson so we can stop the mitigation of loss.

Hurricane Prep. & Insurance

5/7/2018 (Permalink)

Call your insurance company or agent and ask for an insurance check-up to make sure you have enough homeowners insurance to repair or even replace your home. Don’t forget coverage for your car or boat. Remember, standard homeowners insurance doesn’t cover flooding. Whether you’re a homeowner or renter, you’ll need a separate policy for it, and it’s available through your company, agent or the National Flood Insurance Program at www.floodsmart.gov. Act now as flood insurance requires a 30-day waiting period.

National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) policies can be purchased through thousands of insurance agents nationwide. The agent who helps you with your homeowners or renters insurance may also be able to help you with purchasing flood insurance. Here is a list of participating Write Your Own (WYO) companies.

If your insurance agent does not sell flood insurance, you can contact the NFIP Help Center at 800-427-4661. NFIP flood insurance policies can only be purchased for properties within communities that participate in the NFIP.

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Hurricane Safety 5.10.18

5/7/2018 (Permalink)

A hurricane is a powerful tropical cyclone with sustained winds of at least 74 mph that often measures several hundred miles in diameter. All Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico coastal areas are subject to hurricanes and tropical storms. The Atlantic hurricane season lasts from June through November with the peak season from mid-August to late October.

If you plan to ride out the storm in your home, make sure it is in good repair and up to local hurricane building code specifications. Many of these retrofits do not cost much or take as long to do as you may think. Have the proper plywood, steel or aluminum panels to board up the windows and doors. Remember, the garage door is the most vulnerable part of the home, so it must be able to withstand the winds.

Electrical Fire Safety

12/20/2017 (Permalink)

Electrical Fires do not have to happen.  Use this checklist to help you find and fix electrical fire hazards in your home before they can start a fire. 

Smoke Alarms - Smoke alarms save lives!

• Do you have enough smoke alarms?
  • NO or I DON'T KNOW: Install smoke alarms on each level of the home, outside each sleeping area, and inside each bedroom.
    • Smoke alarms save lives. Nearly two-thirds of home fire deaths occur in homes without working smoke alarms. Do not use damaged cords. Replace the cord or the equipment.
• Are they working?
  • NO OR DON'T KNOW: Test smoke alarm once a month by pressing the TEST button. 
    • Smoke alarms can stop working without showing signs of failure, so regular testing is necessary to ensure they are working properly.
• Do you know how old the alarms are? Have you changed the batteries this year?
  • NO OR DON'T KNOW: Replace batteries at least once a year or sooner if they begin to "chirp". When Smoke alarms should be replaced at least every 10 years. Replace alarms if you are unsure of their age. The components inside smoke alarms can wear out over time, which could affect their operation. 

Switches and Outlets - Be on the look-out for signs of trouble.

• Are they working?
  • Have a licensed electrician check these switches and outlets.  
    • Improperly operating switches or outlets may indicate an unsafe wiring condition, which could be a fire hazard.
• Do they make crackling, buzzing, or sizzling sounds?
  • Yes: Have a licensed electrician check these switches and outlets.
    • Unusual noises from a switch or outlet may indicate a unsafe wiring condition, such as a loose electrical connection
• Are they warm to the touch?
  • Yes: Stop using these switches and outlets until they are checked by a licensed electrician. 
    • Usually warm switches or outlets may indicate an unsafe wiring condition. 
• Do plugs fit snugly?
  • No: Outlets without a snug fir should be replaced by a licensed electrician.
    • Loose-fitting plugs can cause overheating and fires.

Cords - Never use damaged cords.

• Is there fraying or cracking?
  • Yes: Do not use damaged cords. Replace the cord or the equipment. 
    • Damaged cords may have exposed wires that can be a fire and shock hazard. 
• Are they pinched or pierced?
  • Yes: Move furniture or relocate cords to prevent cord damage.
    • Pinching cords can cause damage to the insulation or break wire strands, creating a fire or shock hazard. 
• Do you use extension cords all the time?
  • Yes: Have an electrician install new outlets where needed or move equipment closer to an outlet. 
• Are cords getting enough air? Are cords kept wrapped up while being used?
  • YES: Unwrap cords.
    • Wrapped Cords trap heat, which can lead to melting or weakening of the insulation. 
• Are cords attached to anything with nails or staples?
  • YES: Remove nails or staples. Check cord and replace if damage. 
    • Nails and Staples can cut or pinch insulation or break wire strands, presenting a fire or shock hazard. 

Lamps and Appliances - Use them safely.

• Are you using the right bulbs? 
  • NO OR I DON'T KNOW: Replace incorrect bulbs with bulbs of the proper wattage. Use bulbs of 60 watts or less if you are unsure of the appropriate wattage.
    • A bulb with a wattage higher than recommended may overheat the light fixture, wiring or nearby combustible material, leading to a fire. 
• Do you use space heaters safely?
  • No: Move heater at least 3 feet away from combustible material, such as curtains, bedding, and newspaper.
    • Some heaters can produce enough heat to ignite nearby combustible materials.
• Are appliance cords protected from damage?
  • No: Move cords away from all heat sources, such as heaters, range and toaster. 
    • Cords can melt or burn from excess heat. This can expose wires and lead to a fire or electric shock. 

Electrical Panel - Know the basics.

• Are all circuit breakers and fuses the proper size?
  • NO OR I DON'T KNOW: Have a licensed electrician determine the correct sizes and install them. 
  • The wrong size fuse or circuit breaker can cause the wiring to overheat, creating a fire hazard.
• Do you have Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCIs)?
  • NO: Consider having a licensed electrician replace the standard circuit breakers with AFCIs. 
    • AFCI are advanced circuit breakers that provide greater electrical fire protection. 
• Have you tested your AFCIs?
  • No: Test AFCIs Monthly using the TEST button on the AFCI. Have a licensed electrician replace defective AFCIs. 
    • AFCIs can stop working without showing signs of failure, so regular testing is necessary to ensure they are working properly.

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Winter Storm Cleanup and Restoration

11/14/2017 (Permalink)

Cold weather, snow, and ice storms can cause severe damage to your home or business. When these types of disasters strike, immediate action is necessary to prevent additional damage to your property. SERVPRO Professionals have the winter storm experience, expertise, and the resources to remediate damage caused by winter weather.

Frozen Pipes

Extreme cold weather can cause pipes to freeze and burst. In general, pipes are more likely to freeze when the temperature is below 20 degrees Fahrenheit. The resulting water damage can be extensive. Outdoor pipes and pipes in unheated areas of the home can freeze if they are not properly insulated or if temperatures are severely cold. SERVPRO Professionals can quickly and safely repair water damage caused by frozen pipes.

Outdoor pipes most likely to freeze include:

• Outdoor hose bibs
• Swimming pool supply lines
• Water sprinkler lines

Pipes in unheated or partially heated areas are also at risk of freezing, including:

• Basements
• Crawl spaces
• Garages

Ice Dams

An ice dam is formed when snow melts unevenly on a roof and refreezes into a dam at the edge of the roof, near the eaves. This dam prevents any further snowmelt from draining off of the roof. This standing water can back up under shingles, leak into a home, and cause significant water damage to ceilings, walls, and other areas. Ice dams can also tear off gutters and loosen shingles.

Roof Damage

Snow and ice can cause significant damage to your gutters and roof. The additional weight of snow and ice can even cause a roof to collapse. When there’s a cold snap, water can get into cracks and small spaces and expand when it freezes, causing larger cracks and more damage. The repetition of freezing and thawing cycles can cause small cracks to get larger.

Damage from Cold Weather or Winter Storm? Call Today 631-476-5300

Fall Tips

11/14/2017 (Permalink)

reminds you to keep electrical safety in mind as the cooler fall weather moves many activities back indoors. The following safety tips will help you stay safe during the change of seasons:

• Safely store warm weather tools like lawn mowers and trimmers. Check cold weather tools, such as leaf and snow blowers, along with their power cords, for unusual wear and tear. Repair or replace worn tools or parts right away.
• Unplug and safely store battery chargers that won't be in use again until spring.
• Use only weatherproof electrical devices for outside activities. Protect outdoor electrical devices from moisture. Make sure electrical equipment that has been wet is inspected and reconditioned by a certified repair dealer.
• Keep dry leaves swept away from outdoor lighting, outlets and power cords.
• Make sure electric blankets are in good repair and certified by an independent testing lab such as UL, CSA or ETL. Power cords should not be frayed, cracked or cut.
• Do not tuck your electric blanket under mattresses or children, and do not put anything, such as comforters or bedspreads, on top of the blanket while it is in use.
• Never allow pets to sleep on an electric blanket.

Staying safe during Summer Storms

7/26/2017 (Permalink)

It is difficult to prepare for the unpredictable however, there are steps you can take now to ensure you are ready when disaster strikes. 

Before the Storm

• Build an emergency supply kit and develop a communication plan. 
• Unplug any electronic equipment before the storm arrives
• Secure outdoor objects that could blow away or cause damage
• If you are outdoors, get inside a building, home or hard top vehicle (not convertible)
• Shutter window and secure outside doors. If shutter are not available, close window blinds, shades or curtains.

During the storm

• Use your battery-operated NOAA Weather Radio for updates from local officials. 
• Avoid contact with corded phones. Cordless and cellular phones are safe to use. 
• Avoid contact with electrical equipment or cords.
• Unplug appliances and other electrical items, such as computers. Power surges from lightning can cause serious damage.
• Avoid contact with plumbing. Plumbing and bathroom fixtures can conduct electricity. 
• Stay away from windows and doors.

After the storm 

• Never drive through a flooded roadway.
• Stay away from storm-damaged areas to keep from putting yourself at risk.
• Stay away from downed power lines and report them immediately 

Recommended items for basic emergency supply kit 

• Water (one gallon per person per day)
• Food (non-perishable 3-day supply)
• Manual can opener
• Battery operated radio, preferably a NOAA Weather Radio
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• First Aid Kit
• Whistle to signal for help
• Clothing 
• Dust Masks or bandanas
• Plastic sheeting, garbage bags and duct tape
• Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
• Hygiene items
• Important documents;copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account information
• Cash
• Fire Extinguisher
• Matches in a waterproof container

Hurricane season starts June 1st and runs through November 30th.

Be prepared in case of an unforeseen disaster. 

Storm Ready

9/2/2016 (Permalink)

Storm Basics

A thunderstorm is a rain shower during which you hear thunder. Since thunder comes from lightning all thunderstorms have lightning. A thunderstorm is classified as "severe" when it contains one or more of the following:

• Hail
• Winds in excess of 58 mph
• Structural wind damage
• Tornado

Tornado Facts

Tornadoes are arguably nature's most violent storms. Generated from powerful thunderstorms, tornadoes generally appear as rotating, funnel-shaped clouds extending from the cloud 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 3pm and 9pm 

Hurricane Facts

A hurricane is an intense tropical storm with powerful winds and heavy rain 

• Other names for a hurricane include cyclone, typhoon and tropical storm. While they are essentially the same thing, the different names usually indicate where the storm took place. Tropical storms that form in the Atlantic or Northeast Pacific (near the United States) are called hurricanes, those that form near in the Northwest Pacific (near Japan) are called typhoons and those that form in the South Pacific or Indian oceans are called cyclones.

• Hurricanes usually form in tropical areas of the world.

• Hurricanes develop over warm water and use it as an energy source.

•  Hurricanes lose strength as they move over land.

• Coastal regions are most at danger from hurricanes.

• As well as violent winds and heavy rain, hurricanes can also create tornadoes, high waves and widespread flooding.

• Hurricanes are regions of low atmospheric pressure (also known as a depression).

• The wind flow of hurricanes in the southern hemisphere is clockwise while the wind flow of hurricanes in the northern hemisphere is counterclockwise.

• Flood rank as one of the most common and widespread natural disasters in the United States. Whether you live near a coastline, along city streets, in the mountains, near a river or even in the desert, there is a potential for suffering flood damage. 

Before the storm 

• To begin preparing, you should build an emergency supply kit and make a family communication plan.
• Remove dead or rotting trees and branches that could fall and cause injury or damage during a severe thunderstorm.
• Postpone outdoor activities
• Remember the 30/30 Lightning Safety Rule: Go indoors if, after seeing lightning, you cannot count to 30 before hearing thunder. Stay indoors for 30 minutes after hearing the last clap of thunder.
• Secure outdoor objects that could blow away or cause damage
• Get inside a home, building, or hard top automobile. Although you may be injured if lightning strikes your car, you are much safer inside a vehicle than outside.
• Remember, rubber-soled shoes and rubber tires provide NO protection from lightning. However, the steel frame of hard-topped vehicle provides increased protection if you are not touching metal.
• Shutter windows and secure outside doors. If shutters are not available, close window blinds , shades or curtains.
• Unplug any electronic equipment well before the storm arrives 

During the Storm 

• Use your battery-operated NOAA Weather Radio for updates from local officials 
• Avoid contact with corded phones. Use a corded telephone only for emergencies 
• Avoid contact with electrical equipment or cords. Unplug appliances and other electrical items such as computers and turn off air conditioners. Power surges from lightning can cause serious damage
• Avoid contact with plumbing. Do no wash your hands, do not take a shower, do not wash dishes, and do not do laundry. Plumbing and bathroom fixtures can conduct electricity.
• Stay away from windows and doors, and stay off porches.
• Do no lie on concrete floors and do not lean against concrete walls
• Avoid natural lightning rods such as a tall, isolated tree in an open area.
• Avoid hilltops, open fields, the bench or a boat on the water.
• Take shelter in a sturdy building. Avoid isolated sheds or other small structures in open areas.
• Avoid contact with anything metal-tractors, farm equipment, motorcycles, golf carts, golf clubs, and bicycles.
• 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. 

After The Storm

• Never drive through a flooded roadway.
• Stay away from storm-damaged areas to keep from putting yourself at risk from the effects of severe thunderstorms
• Continue to listen to a NOAA Weather Radio or local radio and television stations for updated information or instructions, as access to roads or come parts of the community may be blocked. 
• Help people who may require special assistance, such as infants, children and the elderly or those with access or functional needs.
• Stay away from downed power lines and report them immediately.
• Watch your animal closely. Keep them under your direct control. 

Unexpected emergencies like severe weather call for immediate action. If you have storm damage to your home or business, call our SERVPRO Professionals for immediate action to your disaster. 631-476-5300 !

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Stay safe from summer storms

6/24/2016 (Permalink)

While the spring season is known for the potential to experience severe weather, the threat exists throughout the summer months as well,. In fact, the potential for severe weather even increases in some areas. Hurricane season in the Atlantic begins June 1^st and runs through November 30^th. The Eastern Pacific hurricane season begins May 15^th also ending November 30^th.

While it may be difficult to prepare for the unpredictable, there are steps you can take now to ensure you are ready when disaster strikes. One way to prepare your business for any type of disaster, is to establish an Emergency READY Profile (ERP). Contact your local SERVPRO Franchise Professionals to learn more about the ERP and how it can help you. Consider the following tips when preparing for an approaching storm. 

Before the Storm

• Build an emergency supply kit and develop a communication plan.
• Unplug any electronic equipment before the storm arrives.
• Secure outdoor objects that could blow away or cause damage.               
• If you are outdoors, get inside a building, home or hard top vehicle (not a convertible).
• Shutter windows and secure outside doors. If shutters are not available, close window blinds, shades or curtains.

During the Storm

• Use your battery-operated NOAA Weather Radio for updates from local officials.
• Avoid contact with corded phones. Cordless and cellular phones are safe to use.
•  Avoid contact with electrical equipment or cords.
• Unplug appliances and other electrical items, such as computers. Power surges from lightning can cause serious damage.
• Avoid contact with plumbing. Plumbing and bathroom fixtures can conduct electricity.
• Stay away from windows and doors.

After the Storm

• Never drive through a flooded roadway.
• Stay away from storm-damaged areas to keep from putting yourself at risk.
• Stay away from downed power lines and report them immediately.

Below is a recommended items for basic emergency supply list

Emergency Supply Kit

• Water (one gallon per person per day)
•  Food (non-perishable 3-day supply)
•  Manual can opener
• Battery operated radio, preferably a NOAA Weather Radio
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• First Aid Kit
• Whistle to signal for help
• Clothing
• Dust Masks or bandanas
• Plastic sheeting, garbage bags and duct tape
• Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
• Hygiene items
• Important documents; copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account information
• Cash
• Fire extinguisher
• Matches in a waterproof container

JUNE 1ST STARTS OFF HURRICANE SEASON

5/5/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO OF PORT JEFFERSON/STONY BROOK & HICKSVILLE/PLAINVIEW 

Hurricane Season is amongst us starting June 1, 2016 – November 2016. It’s never too late to take simple steps to make your house and personal finances more wind-and water resistant. While hurricanes give us the advantage of knowing days in advance if they will hit, NOW is the time to get prepared so you can be ready in advance of such a storm, know what to do when a hurricane strikes and how to recover after the storm has left.

The American Red Cross provides tips and lists of materials you should have before a hurricane "Hurricane Checklist."