The 4 Key Steps for Operating a Fire Extinguisher

5/24/2021 (Permalink)

If you follow the PASS technique, you will be able to use most extinguishers like a pro.

Follow These Four Steps

The right tool at the right time can be a lifesaver, but only if you know how to operate it. If a fire breaks out in your home in Red Mountain Ranch, AZ, a fire extinguisher could minimize the property damage. It is not a particularly hard item to use effectively; however, it can be helpful to become familiar with the device. If you follow the PASS technique, you will be able to use most extinguishers like a pro. Follow these four steps:

Pull. A pin is normally located on the top of the device. Just pull the pin out to make the unit operational.
Aim. A hose usually protrudes from the fire extinguisher. Take the hose and aim the end of it with a nozzle at the fire. Aim low at the base of the fire for best results.
Squeeze. Squeeze the handle to release the fire fighting agent. This should result in a forceful flow of foam or some other material out of the hose.
Sweep. Move the hose and nozzle along the base of the fire in a controlled sweeping motion. Do this until the fire is completely out or the device runs out of fluid. Keep a close watch on the extinguished fire for a few hours to make sure it does not revive.

In the case of a kitchen fire, you will need to be careful of what type of fire extinguisher or method you use. A grease or oil fire should be controlled by smothering it with a heavy metal pot lid or by pouring large quantities of baking soda on the fire.
To minimize fire damage, it's a good idea to call in a professional fire mitigation company. Trained technicians can arrive Faster to Any Size Disaster and begin the fire restoration process. They will treat water damage as well as work on removing the impacts of soot and smoke with a professional fire cleanup.

Can You Deduct Storm Damage Loss? Most Likely, if You Meet These Qualifications

5/14/2021 (Permalink)

Flooding clean up in Sunland Villages, AZ.

Can You Deduct Storm Damage Loss?

Under the casualty loss deduction policy, commercial owners in Sunland Villages, AZ may seek tax breaks for loss from storm damage. It's not always a sure-fire thing, though. The IRS looks for specific qualifications. To seek reparation on your taxes, consider the following three things.

1. Did the Loss Occur as the Result of a Natural Disaster?
Storms occur regularly; they are not all deemed natural disasters. This state, above all, is the first mandatory requirement: your property loss must have originated from a federally declared weather system. If it did not, the loss isn't tax-deductible. If you're unsure, search the Federal Emergency Management Agency's website.

2. Can You Supply the IRS with Specific Property Loss Records?
You cannot declare general storm damage. Be prepared to provide specific documentation listing out the services you paid for and the materials lost. For example, did a water restoration company assess your contents? What was tossed? What was salvaged? Provide photo documentation of the possession's deterioration. Write out the name of the product or fixture as well as the initial cost and the replacement cost.
Locate IRS forms, and take time to complete them thoroughly. It's better to be over-prepared.

3. Did Your Insurance Policy Not Completely Compensate?
Double-dipping isn't permitted. Evaluate your insurance payments as well as any other government financial assistance. Your agent may have cut a check to cover the ruined belongings. If the amount received totals the destruction's price tag, then you cannot seek more.
If you did not get full reparation, do some math to determine whether you may file for tax-deductible aid. First, subtract your overall cost from how much you've already received. Next, take away $100 for each storm and reduce more by 10% of your gross income. You may declare this number.
Commercial owners may be able to seek aid for storm damage. Ensure it's from a nationally declared system, and be prepared to justify your request with evidence and numbers.

3 Reasons You Should Avoid Driving During a Flood

4/30/2021 (Permalink)

Avoid driving through a flooded street.

Avoid Driving During a Flood

It might be frustrating to be stuck at home during bad weather in Leisure World, AZ, but even the best travel tips won’t help during a flood. It is unsafe to drive during these conditions, and doing so can have serious consequences. The following are just a few reasons why you are better off staying at home until the roads have cleared up.

1. You Cannot See the Road
When you drive on a flooded street, you cannot really see where you are going. The water covers your path, making it difficult to determine what may be there. There could be debris or potholes hiding beneath the surface. What might look like a small amount of water could be much deeper if there is road damage underneath.

2. It Can Damage Your Vehicle
Not only is it unsafe to travel on flooded roads, but it can also cause a lot of damage to your vehicle. Most cars are not made to enter the water, and if you use yours during a flood, you may end up needing repairs from a water damage remediation company. Water could also enter the engine and other components of your vehicle. If this happens, your car will no longer operate as it should. In some cases, repairs may not be possible and you will have to replace your vehicle.

3. You Could Lose Control
Even the best and most experienced drivers cannot guarantee they will be safe on a flooded street. Most cars can be carried away by only two feet of moving water, and small cars might float with even less. In this situation, you will not be able to control the car. It could move toward an unsafe area or flip over onto its side.
The best thing that you can do during a storm is to wait it out until the flooded streets return to normal. Avoid traveling until it has been deemed safe to do so. This will help keep you safe and prevent damage to your vehicle.

3 Important Things To Know About Partial Losses From a Fire

4/30/2021 (Permalink)

Commercial fire damage to a building in Mesa, AZ

Fire Loss Restoration Process

In the event that your Mesa, AZ, building experiences a fire, you may need to deal with some partial losses. Partial loss fires essentially create fire loss without destroying an entire building. These issues may lead to an intricate fire damage restoration process. If you'd like to learn more, here are three important things to know about partial destruction from a fire.

1. Potential Problems
The most important things to keep in mind when it comes to partial losses are the potential issues. Since partial losses aren't always a priority, you may experience problems long after the fire is over. One possible issue is discovering hidden damages from fire loss. These long-term consequences may not be immediately apparent:

• Mold
  
• Smoke
  
• Ash
  
• Water
  
  

You may also need to deal with delays or mistakes. Be sure that everyone involved, including you, pays attention to details to avoid these issues.

2. Inspection Process
If your building can be maintained, an intricate inspection process needs to take place. Essentially, this gives experts a clear idea of how fire restoration procedures should be conducted. Many areas require inspection, especially the most pressing items such as structural steel, windows, plumbing, roof, heating and framing. Once the inspection is finished, you may be surprised how much needs to be restored. Keep in mind that some undamaged items might require replacement for aesthetic purposes.

3. Restoration Preparation
After the inspection is completed, you can begin preparing for the restoration process. Be sure to let the experts in charge know about any personal concerns you may have. For instance, breathing issues such as asthma are important to share, particularly when it comes to cleaning smoke damage. You should also stand your ground when it comes to insurance. If your providers push you to neglect certain restoration procedures, you must do your own research and determine if these interventions are necessary.
If you experience partial losses, it's vital to stay on task. Make sure that the fire loss restoration process commences as soon as possible.

Tips to Prevent Flooding

4/13/2021 (Permalink)

Cleaning up after storm damage in Sierra Estate, AZ.

Whether minor or major, flooding can cause extensive damage to properties in Sierra Estate, AZ, requiring extensive restoration, cleanup, and water remediation. While it may not also be possible to avoid flood damage, property owners can plan ahead and take preventive measures to limit the damage and ensure the safety of others.

Plan Ahead

While the ideal solution would be to move to higher ground, that is likely an option that few, if any, can take. Knowing that storm damage can take a toll on a property means regularly inspecting the property, having flood-prevention equipment onsite and communicating with employees, tenants, vendors, or visitors. Below are a few tips to help better weather the next storm:

• Considering purchasing a generator in case of a power outage, especially if the building has a sump pump.
• Install backflow valves to reduce sewage backup.
• Maintain materials onsite to block floodwaters or make temporary repairs, including sandbags, plywood or lumber, plastic sheeting, shovels, hammer, nails, and staples.
• Install backflow valves or standpipes to prevent sewer lines from backing up.
• Elevate machinery, equipment and HVAC systems onto concrete blocks.
• Up landscaping to better resist soil erosion and water absorption.
• Purchase a flood-detection device.
  
  

Communicate

When flood damage happens, the safety of everyone around should be a top priority. Before the waters rise, having an emergency plan is essential to keeping people safe and calm. A plan should be developed based on the business’s situation, but it should at least include a chain of command and assigned responsibilities, evacuation procedures, and a list of flood-proofing materials available. It is a good idea to regularly test and discuss the plan to ensure everyone understands what to do and who should do what. Considering schedule a drill a few times a year, as well as provide training to any new people onsite.
Knowing that floods can happen anytime, preparing and reducing flood damage is vital to ensuring the next storm is weathered with safety in mind.

3 Ways to Keep Your Home Safe From Fire Hazards

3/25/2021 (Permalink)

Using candle alternatives is an excellent way to prevent this risk.

Prevent Fire Risks In Your Home

Homeowners in Desert Uplands, AZ, may not think twice about bringing potential fire hazards into their homes. Some are so commonplace it is habitual to purchase them or ignore them in the home. Common fire hazards include:

• Cooking Oils
  
• Candles
  
• Lint
  
  

Simple changes, such as using candle alternatives, can minimize the risk of a fire. Here are a few ways to keep your home safe from fire hazards.

1. Properly Handle Cooking Oils
Many fires begin with improperly handled cooking oils. When you are cooking, never leave hot oil unattended. It takes less than 30 seconds for it to ignite once it begins smoking. To prevent a grease fire, heat the oil slowly in a pan and do not place frozen foods directly in the hot grease. Storing salt nearby is helpful to quickly douse a grease fire.

2. Avoid Using Open Flame Candles
An open flame is a potential fire waiting to happen. Wick candles are a common cause of house fires. Using candle alternatives is an excellent way to prevent this risk. Some include essential oil diffusers, electric wax warmers, and plugins. Each has its unique benefits so be sure to research which is most suitable for your home. The best way to prevent a candle fire is to utilize flameless alternatives.

3. Keep Dryer Vents Clean
Lint is a highly flammable and common household nuisance. When lint clogs the dryer vent, it begins to accumulate inside of the vent and the exhaust hose. If this is neglected for too long, it could spell a disaster for homeowners. A small spark near lint will cause a terrible house fire. To prevent a lint fire, contact a professional to service your dryer at least once a year.
Prevent fire risks by keeping these hazards out of your home. Practicing safe cooking methods, using candle alternatives, and servicing your dryer are all excellent ways to create a safe home environment. If you are in need of a fire damage restoration service, contact your local professionals to help.

4 Causes of Noisy Pipes and How To Stop Them

3/11/2021 (Permalink)

Copper piping expands and contracts along with temperature fluctuations.

Four Reasons For Loud Pipes

When the plumbing in your house starts making noise, it may be the sign of an imminent pipe break. The water damage created by these unfortunate circumstances often requires rebuilding expertise provided by a home restoration professional. Here are four reasons for loud pipes and what actions can be taken before the conditions triggering the clamor develop into calamity.

1. Loose Fittings
Clicking or rattling may be signs of improperly fitted pipes. This condition, prone to worsening over time, must be fixed fast. If you have exposed plumbing, simply tighten the bolts and replace worn-out segments yourself. Should your pipes be hidden behind walls or otherwise difficult to access, have a plumber re-route your water delivery system before a pipe break develops.

2. Copper Pipes
Copper piping expands and contracts along with temperature fluctuations, making them particularly noisy. Luckily, a pipe burst should not be a concern under these circumstances. Remedy the situation by applying insulation or lowering the temperature of your water.

3. Water Hammers
Certain plumbing systems are protected by air chambers that prevent water from slamming into valves when taps shut off. Over time, water hammers are created when air gets replaced with water, thus reducing the chambers' stopping power and making pipes cranky. Replenish the air supply within your system by performing a full drain. If this fails, have a plumber come to your home in Leisure World, AZ, to inspect the issue.

4. Water Pressure
Noisy pipes are also known to occur when water pressure is too high. Before you find yourself scrambling to fix broken pipe parts, adjust your boiler’s regulator. If the boiler in your home does not have a meter, seek guidance from a service professional.
Noisy pipes are an annoyance, but the frustration they cause pales in comparison to that of a pipe break. Listen closely to the sounds your plumbing creates and take action as soon as you suspect a problem.

3 Steps to Take in Case of a Leak

2/23/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage from broken pipes can mean costly repairs.

What Steps To Take In Case Of A Leak

Water damage from broken pipes can mean costly repairs for business owners in Sunland Villages, AZ. Some leaks can go unnoticed for months before they become visible on walls or ceilings. Leaks can be caused by:

• Broken pipes
  
• Broken water heaters
  
• Loose water supply lines
  
  

Business owners should know what steps to take in case of a leak to prevent worse damage from developing on their property. Here are 3 steps to take in case of a leak.

1. Stop the Leak
The first action you should take is to locate the leak. This will help you identify the type of water you will be cleaning and the repairs you will need. When you know the source, shut off the main water supply line to stop water from leaking into the building. Empty the plumbing system of the remaining water by opening as many faucets as possible.

2. Clean Up As Much of the Water As Possible
Before you sop up the water, make sure it is safe for you to handle this job. Some leaks are sourced from toxic wastewater and should be handled by professionals. If it is safe, clean the water with any towels or rags you have on hand. A water vacuum is a handy tool for leaks and floods from damaged pipes. Water cleanup will prevent damage to floors and walls.

3. Contact Your Insurance Company
Most insurance companies will cover water damage from a broken pipe. Contact your insurance company before settling on fixing water damages yourself. Making a list of local companies that help with cleanup and repairs is helpful for quick response in emergency water situations. SERVPRO is a preferred vendor for many insurance companies and will aid in water cleanup and restoration of your property.
If your building has water damage from an active leak, contact your local SERVPRO to help. Business owners in Sunland Villages, AZ, can prevent panic in a water damage emergency by being prepared and knowing their cleanup and restoration options.

How Flooding Affects Furnaces

2/11/2021 (Permalink)

A furnace flood in Mesa, AZ.

Many large commercial buildings have packaged rooftop units with a gas or electric boiler or a chiller with a boiler for space heating. Smaller structures that rely on conventional gas or electric furnaces can sustain serious damage from a furnace flood. Find out how to avoid the worst consequences of water damage after a pipe burst near a furnace in a building located in Mesa, AZ.

Increased Risk of Electrical Problems

A commercial building may have a gas or electric furnace. Furnaces powered by electricity contain several components that could malfunction after being exposed to water:

• Contactor
  
• Heating element
  
• Sequencer
  
• Transformer
  
  

If any of these components malfunction on a flooded furnace, the unit could trip a fuse or even blow a breaker. It is important to shut off the power to a flooded electrical furnace unit to reduce fire risks.

Metal Components May Corrode
Corrosion on sensitive components such as the contactor in a furnace can cause a unit that runs on electrical power to cease to function. Corrosion is caused by a chemical reaction between the salts that occur in water and any type of metal. Iron components corrode more quickly than stainless steel. Noble metals are less reactive and prone to corrosion.

Ductwork Can Become Contaminated
After a furnace flood, residue from a unit powered by gas or oil can travel through outflow ducting and contaminate a structure. Under the worst circumstances, a furnace blowback can spread soot throughout a building. It is a good idea to arrange for air duct cleaning after any commercial furnace or heating unit suffers water damage.
A furnace flood has the potential to undermine the function of this crucial appliance and the safety of a structure. Shutting off the furnace and the circuit for an appliance powered by electricity can help to limit safety risks at a commercial building in Mesa, AZ.

The Best Mold Control Strategies for Apartments

2/2/2021 (Permalink)

Mold damage in Sierra Estate, AZ

Mold growth in an apartment building can affect a single unit, several apartments, or a larger area. Discover the best strategies to control the spread of fungus leading up to mold cleanup at a multifamily dwelling in Sierra Estate, AZ.

Keep an Infestation From Spreading

Mold growth in an apartment may spread to other units or common areas in a building. Apartments are often connected to some, if not all, of the following areas:

• Hallways
• Elevators
• Stairways
• Lobbies
• Ventilation

Mold spores can be carried on the clothing and shoes of residents or property maintenance staff. The design of ductwork may also determine how readily mold growing in a single unit or inside air ducts can spread throughout a structure.

Resolve the Underlying Problems
If mold is growing due to conditions within a unit, a property manager or owner should take measures to resolve the problem. A leaky sink, bathroom fixtures, or other factors may require containment and mold cleanup in an apartment and surrounding units.
A major mold infestation may result from severe water damage on the structural level. A broken or leaking supply line or damage to the roof of a structure may lead to hidden mold growth behind walls that has the potential to affect multiple apartments.

Promote Mold Mitigation Measures
Whether mold contamination affects a single unit, multiple apartments, or a significant portion of a multifamily dwelling, it is important to mitigate conditions. Property owners and managers should respond quickly to reports of water damage and provide complete cleanup and restoration services. If mold is reported, inspection and remediation should take place as soon as possible.
Taking measures to contain the spread of spores, eliminate water sources and maintain low humidity levels can restrain mold growth prior to remediation. These methods may have the potential to limit the scope of mold cleanup at a building in Sunland Villages, AZ.