My Home is Flooded, Now What?

Name: SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest
Address: 13808 F Street, Omaha, NE, 68137
Telephone: (402) 408-0134

9/29/2023 (Permalink)

There are so many questions after your Omaha home is flooded due to a storm. What Should I do now? Who should I call? Follow these steps to assure your taken care of:

AVOID ADDITIONAL RISKS-Disconnect all the Electronics in your home, these can start fires if left on. Check for any visible structural damage of your home such as warping, loosened or cracked foundation elements, cracks, and holes. Contact utility companies if you suspect damage to water, gas, electric, or sewer lines.
TAKE PICTURES-Before you remove any water or make repairs, fully document the damage of your home by taking photos or videos. Digital photos are best so they can easily be transferred and shared.
PROTECT YOUR HEALTH-Even if the water in your home is clear, it could be contaminated by sewage or household chemicals. Wear gloves when removing water-damaged possessions, throw away any food that may have come in contact with the flood water, and boil water until authorities declare the water supply is safe to drink.
CALL YOUR INSURANCE COMPANY-Call your insurance agent as soon as possible after the flood. Always have their number on hand in your emergency bag. Document the damage, communication, and notify them of any repairs.
REMOVE WATER/MITIGATE MOLD DAMAGE- Have a Restoration Company like SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest Remove the Water, extraction of water helps with the drying process and will save your home from future problems. Mold can also develop within 24-48 hours after a flood. SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest can mitigate the mold by our cleaning/drying processes.

Call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest today at 402-408-0134. If your home or business has been affected by water damage our team is here to help! We are open 24 hours a day, 7 days per week, including holidays.

Bathroom Appliances Can Cause Fires

9/29/2023 (Permalink)

Bathrooms should have specialized outlets that trip a tiny built-in breaker should a shock hazard develop. These protect people if an appliance should ever get wet by either water splashed on it or through accidental submersion in a sink or tub. Problems can still happen if someone uses one of these electrical items later because water can corrode internal components and cause them to get too hot.

Using curling irons or hair dryers with corroded contacts can put your Omaha home in danger, melting plastic can ignite and help spread and strengthen any flames, helping the fire get around the room. Shower curtains can become a path to the ceiling, leaving dense layers of blackened soot. Residents with this kind of damage need professionals like the ones at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest to get such disasters mitigated, and the area restored "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest has extensively learned how to clean up such areas. Mitigation includes discerning between truly damaged materials that require removal and replacements and those that we can revitalize, saving our customers as much as possible while restoring their property to a safe, livable condition again.

We use several different tools to clean surfaces after fire damage compromises their appearance. Dry sponges that pull soot off mirrors and fixtures protect them from the fine lines that ruin the sheen and make achieving a shiny appearance impossible. Waiting to remove soot can leave property owners wanting to replace such items, resulting in lost rental deposits or additional costs related to court-awarded damages. SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest wants to help you recover completely from the consequences of fire damage and with as little stress as possible.

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest's goal is to provide all our customers with a thorough job, from start to finish, including odor control. Our team knows how to do the work efficiently, letting you put the fire damage behind you so you can get back to your normal activities. Contact SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest today at 402-408-0134

Faster to your Omaha Disaster

9/29/2023 (Permalink)

Three green vans lined up besides each other

Faster to your Omaha water disaster!

Flooding and water disasters don't wait for regular business hours, and neither do we. SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for all emergency cleaning and restoration, including all holidays.

Faster To Any Size Disaster

Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more. SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – (402)408-0134

About SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Preparing Your Business for the Weather Ahead

9/29/2023 (Permalink)

Summer is over, Fall is here, and Winter is right around the corner! While not every storm will cripple a business, it is still necessary to be prepared. Along with frigid temperatures and snow, winter can create problems with plumbing and operations. Therefore, it is essential to make a plan for the worst-case scenario.

Prepare Your Building-Make sure you check your plumbing and electricity regularly, but even more so when a winter storm is heading your way. Outside plumbing should be shut off and cleared to prevent freezing and possible burst pipes. Additionally, it may be a good idea to secure a generator if your business does not already have one. If your company does have a generator, it is a good investment to have it serviced before the winter weather sets in.
Plan for Ice and Snow-Any winter storm is going to bring issues of snow and ice. Being prepared for this situation means having a plow service on contract and ensuring that all walkways and driveways are cleared and salted. It is vital to do everything in your power to ensure that customers do not get hurt on the way into your business.
Focus on Inventory-Also, as storms have the potential to cause significant business interruption as well as property damage, it is vital to take an accurate inventory of all your assets. This inventory will be used for insurance claims if property damage results in an inventory loss. You should move stock to a secure and climate-controlled area, photographing and documenting everything. This will help streamline the process if a claim is made.
Make a List of Contacts-While taking inventory is necessary, it is also crucial to make a list of emergency contacts. This list should include all personnel who are essential to your operations. Additionally, you should include a disaster restoration specialists in the Omaha area in case of an emergency.

Winter storm season can produce significant threats to business operations. Massive snowfalls and ice storms can wreak havoc on you Omaha business, so it is essential to have a plan.

Call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest today at (402)408-0134 and schedule one of our marketers to come to your business to help you with an Emergency Readiness Plan at no cost to you!

National Readiness Month

9/29/2023 (Permalink)

A picture of lighting and it says "when lightning strikes SERVPRO strikes back"

Did you know September is National Readiness Month? Disasters can strike businesses big or small. Disasters can devastate a community in just a matter of moments.

Disasters caused by wind, fire, water, or weather can strike at anytime without warning. Business owners need to establish an Emergency Plan and practice it with all employees.

Companies can find vital information regarding emergency plans at ready.gov/business.

-Update all emergency contact information and give to all employees.

-Implement Emergency Policies and Procedures.

-Sign up for alerts and warnings in your area.

-Conduct Emergency drills with employees.

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest offers a NO COST Emergency Readiness Profile (ERP) to help with your emergency planning.

Don't wait until disaster strikes. Call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest at (402)408-0134 to discuss your ERP today!

Emergency Ready Profile

9/29/2023 (Permalink)

As the sales and marketing representative for SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest, one of my key targets each month is to help businesses be prepared in the event of a disaster. One way we do that is through our Emergency Ready Profile program.

The Emergency Ready Profile, or ERP, is a free service provided by SERVPRO in which we help area businesses with such things as locating their emergency shut offs for their electrical systems, water, and gas. We also compile information on their key contacts in the event of any emergency so the business is prepared and can calmly work through the situation. Since this is a free service, there are no contracts to sign and no obligations to purchase any products. Our only request is, if your business does suffer from a disaster to give us an opportunity to make it "Like it never even happened".

The ERP also contains tips and suggestions that the business can do before help arrives and provides somewhat of a roadmap helping them get back into their business more quickly and ultimately minimizing the interruption.

One example where we had the opportunity to truly see the power of the plan in action was last February. A local business suffered a frozen pipe on the third story of their building reaching numerous rooms within the facility. With this plan, the building contact knew exactly who to call and within hours our team was on site helping them to restore function to nearly 50% of the rooms affected by the end of day 1. The other rooms required more drying time, but they were able to recover a fair amount of potential lost income by simply having a plan in place and knowing what to do prior to help arriving.

The best part of the ERP process is the amount of work the business owner or manager must do to get this set up is minimal. A sales and marketing representative will come to your business and take the necessary photos and information, then finish putting the document together at the office. This process usually only takes 30 minutes or less and the business owner can proof and edit the document as often as they would like. When approved, the business will receive both a hard copy and a digital copy through our ERP app.

For more questions or to set up an Emergency Ready Profile for your business, call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest at 402-408-0134

Preventing Water Damages from Dishwashers

9/29/2023 (Permalink)

It is pretty common nowadays to clean your dishes using a dishwasher. Having a dishwasher in your business, home or office means there is a water line which can lead to potential water damage if leaking starts to occur.

SERVPRO recommends all Omaha restaurateurs, home owners and offices take the following steps to take care of their dishwashers to reduce the risk of water damage.

Do Not Overfill

It is tempting to fill your dishwasher to the brim especially when there only a couple of dishes left in the sink. However, tell yourself and your staff not the crowd the rack, as an over filled dishwasher is much more likely to leak. It is better to do a couple of smaller loads rather than trying to fit everything into one big load.

Do Regular Maintenance on Doors

Dishwasher door hinges become loose, door latches become misaligned or door seals break, all of which can cause a leak. Sometime the problem can be solved with a tightening of a few screws and you can use an epoxy patch kit to remedy minor seal breaks. However, other times it is not possible to fix the door hinges, latches or seals on your own and that leads to buying a new dishwasher.

Check the Tub and Hose

The tub and hose can both develop faults over time. Consistent and constant use may corrode the tub and create a big hole, and aging hoses can become unstable or cease to fit properly.

Use the Correct Detergent

Always use a dish washing detergent and follow the manufacturer instructions. The incorrect dish washing detergent or too much of the correct dish washing detergent can cause suds and even a blockage.

These leaks, if not dried fast or correctly, can lead to mold.

For help with water damage to your business or home give SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest a call at (402) 408-0134 to help remedy the situatio

Services Offered by SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest

9/29/2023 (Permalink)

Do you know the services SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest offers?

1. Water Damage Repair and Restoration: Whether the damage is from heavy rains or flooding, a burst pipe, or an appliance malfunction, our techs are highly trained and certified in water damage restoration. We have specialized high tech equipment to efficiently dry out your property.

2. Fire Damage Repair and Restoration: Each fire situation is unique and requires a specific cleaning and restoration process. We have high tech equipment that allows to restore contents instead of having to replace.

3. Mold Remediation and Restoration: From setting containment to using negative air, our techs are trained in proper mold remediation.

4. Storm Damage Cleanup and Restoration: We have the resources and personnel to quickly respond to any storm or disaster. With over 1800 franchises, SERVPRO is close by and ready.

5. Commercial Cleaning Services: SERVPRO offers commercial COVID cleaning and disinfecting, along with proactive cleaning. We follow protocol set by the CDC, and use a hospital grade EPA registered disinfectant.

6. Bio-hazard Cleanup: Crime scene cleanup, sewage backup, and suicide cleanup are a few of the bio-hazard cleanup services we offer.

7. Vandalism and Graffiti Removal: The media blaster can clean almost any surface. We can seamlessly remove graffiti or cleanup after a break-in.

8. Air Duct and Carpet Cleaning: Cleaning your HVAC unit can extend the life of the equipment. This can save you money, and give you cleaner air to breathe. Carpets act as a filter trapping contaminants. Regular cleanings can extent the life span of your carpet.

9. Odor Removal: Our techs are trained to identify and quickly eliminate offensive odors.

Call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest for all your restoration and cleanup needs.

The Aftermath of a Storm

9/29/2023 (Permalink)

A line of trees and a road flooded with brown water

The storm tore through the area, and now the aftermath remains. After a storm moves through, you may be left with wind damage, flood damage, and more. Storms can cause significant damage to your residence or business. Calling a professional restoration company can prevent secondary damage and help to restore any damage to your property.

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest has the expertise and skilled professionals with years of experience restoring homes and businesses. SERVPRO has state-of-the-art equipment and techniques to handle any storm damage that may happen.

With flooding, can come significant water damage. Removing the water quickly is important, as mold can develop in 24 hours.

Why SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest?

1. Faster to any disaster. Our highly trained techs are available and ready 24/7/365. Our crews can respond immediately, as we understand timing is essential with any storm damage.

2. State-of-art-equipment. We have invested in specialized drying and cleaning equipment. This allows our crews to help restore instead of replace your property. Our equipment allows us to dry your property quickly and effectively, preventing secondary damage. This equipment saves you time and money when it matters most.

3. Highly trained professionals. Our technicians are all WRT (Water Damage Restoration Technician) certified through the IICRC. The IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) sets the standards in cleaning and restoration.

When the storm strikes, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest to properly and quickly restore your home or business.

Helpful Tips to Prevent a House Fire

9/29/2023 (Permalink)

House fires kill and injure many every year, while leaving many without their home, and valuable memories and possessions. Fire prevention is more important than many realize.

Ways to Prevent House Fires

-Establish an emergency plan with fire routes.

-Test all smoke alarms in your home.

-Teach your children fire safety.

-Perform home maintenance consistently.

- Use candles with caution.

-Don't leave food cooking unattended.

- Store flammables safely.

- Know where the fire extinguishers are and how to use them.

- Check all electrical cords in your home. If wires are frayed, throw it away.

Fire preparation is an important part of safeguarding your home and your family. Knowing not only how to prevent a fire but also how to escape it and get quick fire cleanup is essential.

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest Comes to the Rescue

9/29/2023 (Permalink)

Kudos to the SERVPRO Omaha Southwest group that came to my home 9/17. This is the emergency crew that came to Milwaukee to help remove water from many flooded basements and buildings. Their timely help saved my lower level from being destroyed. I am so grateful for their service!! SERVPRO is the BEST!! Thank you Lathe for your team and your kind help getting things done. Miracles do happen!!

Sincerely, Gretchen Burt

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

What are the Risks of Ignoring Water Damage

9/29/2023 (Permalink)

A ceiling with water damage. A big brown spot

As vital as water is, it can also be incredibly dangerous to your home. If you notice any signs of water damage, it's a good idea to contact a local water damage restoration company in Omaha, NE so you can avoid expensive repairs in the future.

What Are the Risks of Ignoring Water Damage?

There are several risks to ignoring water damage. For example, while it may seem harmless to ignore a small leak under the sink or a leak that goes away when it's no longer raining, small leaks can turn into big problems in the future. All it takes is a little bit of water for a long period of time to cause structural and electrical damage to your home.

Structural and electrical damage to your home will involve costly repairs. If the wooden beams in your home need to be replaced or if your electrical system is so damaged by water that it's no longer safe to run electricity in your house, you can be looking at several thousand dollars in repair costs. In addition to potentially expensive repairs associated with structural damage and electrical damage, other risks of ignoring water damage can include:

Health Concerns

Untreated water damage can also be a cause of health concerns. For example, the bacteria associated with mold and mildew can trigger skin allergies, eczema, and asthma. Black mold in the walls has been known to make people very sick.

Mold and Mildew

Mold is bad for your health and mildew is bad for your senses. If your home smells like mildew, this is usually because there has been sustained water damage that is going untreated. It can be difficult to remove the scent of water damage. If you want to get rid of a mildew smell in your home, you may need to replace drywall and carpeting.

Signs of Water Damage in Omaha, NE

Most people will recognize the most obvious sign of water damage in the home, which is visible water stains on the walls or ceiling. However, water damage can also present as bubbling drywall, streaking paint, and warping of your interior walls. You may also notice higher water bills when you have untreated water damage.

What Is Water Damage Restoration?

Restoration for water damage is a series of services that address the underlying cause of your water damage to prevent major problems down the road. For example, emergency building services after water damage can include placing a roof tarp, boarding up damaged parts of the home, and temporarily moving items out of the home until repairs are made.

As for repairs for the building itself, a local company may use techniques that can remove initial water damage, use dehumidifiers and fans to evaporate water that may be hidden, and repair drywall, tile, hardwood, carpet, and paint.

Ignoring the signs of water damage in your home is a major mistake, particularly because water can cause major damage to your home that is costly to repair. Need to restore your home after water damage? Contact SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest to get a quote on your restoration project today.

What Should You Do If a Tree Falls on Your House During a Storm?

6/22/2023 (Permalink)

What_Should_YoDo If a Tree Falls on Your House During a Storm

A tree fell on a home after a storm

It's a situation no one wants to be in, but sometimes, storm damage cleanup involves getting a tree off a house. If you're in Saunders County, SERVPRO of Omaha West is faster to any size of disaster. Here's what to do if the worst happens.

What Should You Do If a Tree Falls on Your House During a Storm?

Immediate Steps

If a tree falls on your house during a storm, the first thing you should do is make sure that everyone in the house is safe and accounted for. If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately. If the damage is severe, evacuate the house and call for help from a safe location.

If it is safe to do so, turn off any gas, electricity, and water main valves to prevent further damage or injury. It is important to turn off the gas and electricity after a tree falls on your house to prevent further damage or injury. If the tree has damaged gas lines or electrical wires, turning off the gas and electricity will prevent the risk of fire or explosion.

Turning Off Gas

To turn off the gas, locate the main gas valve, which is usually found near the gas meter. It is usually a round valve that is turned with a wrench. Turn the valve to the "off" position.

Turning Off Electric

To turn off the electricity, locate the main breaker box, which is usually found in a utility room or basement. The main breaker is a large switch that controls the flow of electricity to the entire house. Flip the main breaker to the "off" position.

It is important only to turn off the gas and electricity if it is safe to do so. If you are unsure how to turn off the gas or electricity, or if you are unable to access the main valves or breaker box, do not try to turn them off. Call your gas and electricity providers for assistance.

Call for Storm Damage Cleanup Help

It is generally not recommended to remove a fallen tree yourself, especially if it has fallen on your house. Removing a tree can be dangerous and requires specialized equipment and training. It is important to have a professional tree removal service remove the tree and clean up the debris. They have the experience and equipment to safely remove the tree and minimize further damage to your property.

Document

It is important to document the damage for insurance purposes. Take photos of the fallen tree, any damage to the house, and any injuries sustained. Contact your insurance company to report the damage. They will send an adjuster to assess the damage and determine the extent of coverage.

In the meantime, make temporary repairs to prevent further damage to the house, such as covering holes in the roof with tarps to keep out the rain.

Get Fast Help in Saunders County

If a falling tree has damaged your home, call us at SERVPRO of Omaha West / Saunders County right away at (402) 835-5985. We're the premier restoration company in area, and we can get you back in your house fast.

4 Steps Involved in Water Remediation

6/21/2023 (Permalink)

Water damage from a leaking pipe

After a flood or extensive leak, quick water damage cleanup is essential because it minimizes long-term damage and eliminates health and safety issues. At SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest in Omaha, NE, we start by inspecting and characterizing the damage. Then, we remove the water, decontaminate the space, dry the affected rooms, and carry out the necessary repairs.

4 Steps Involved in Water Damage Cleanup in Omaha, NE

1. Inspection and Characterization

The first step is to accurately characterize the nature of the water damage to figure out what measures are necessary. We begin by determining whether there are any contaminants and if so, how they interact with each other. This helps us to understand the extent of your property damage and whether your health is at risk.

To characterize the contamination, we take samples of the water at locations where we believe the concentration of chemicals is highest. If there is a serious contamination issue, we work with emergency response partners. We might ask you to take certain precautions such as avoiding contaminated areas to prevent health and safety issues.

2. Water Removal and Decontamination

Once we fully understand the risks related to the flood or leak, we can start the decontamination process. If there is still a large amount of water in your space, we use a sump pump to remove it. Then, we select treatment methods that disinfect your space, remove harmful chemicals, and allow you to use your space safely. Sometimes, infrastructure such as piping has to be dismantled and cleaned or replaced to avoid future issues.

In addition to decontaminating your space, we also handle the removal of wastewater and harmful objects. If some of your belongings are no longer safe to use, we'll dispose of them properly.

3. Drying

After we've made sure that your space is no longer contaminated by pathogens or harmful chemicals, we can remove any remaining water and dry your space. The techniques we use depend on the extent and type of water damage and the location of the affected rooms. If there are a lot of windows and it is dry outside, we might start by airing the place out.

Additionally, we use fans, dehumidifiers, and desiccants to get rid of any remaining moisture. Some vacs can remove moisture from carpets and other soft surfaces. To minimize the damage, we'll help you to store wet items properly. Paper objects should be frozen because this prevents mold and mildew.

4. Cleaning and Restoration

Finally, your space is ready to be deep cleaned and renovated. Again, the extent of the work we need to complete depends on the location of your room, its intended purpose, and the materials it is made of. Using the most advanced devices and products on the market, we'll remove any remaining odors and repair or replace all your structures, including the floors, walls, and ceilings.

Cleaning up water damage is a challenging and time-consuming process. To ensure your safety, it's important to work with professionals who can assess the situation, decontaminate your space, and carry out the necessary repairs. Get in touch with us at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest to find out about our services and schedule your cleanup.

Congratulations Amy Mason

8/24/2022 (Permalink)

Amy Mason of the Quinn Insurance Agency

Amy Mason won a gift card from SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest at the 27th Annual IIAN Golf Tournament. Congratulations Amy! SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest sponsored a hole that was visited by 150-golfers from IIAN Association.

Commercial Water Damage...No Problem

7/14/2022 (Permalink)

When you have a water problem we are here to help

Water damage in a commercial space is never a fun thing to deal with. Restoration professionals understand how crucial it is to act immediately when there is an emergency such as a pipe break or water in your business from plumbing failure. Recognizing that a flooded business causes a devastating setback to businesses, they do whatever it takes to get things back to normal as soon as possible.

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/ Saunders County has the right equipment for large commercial water damages. Our trailer mounted desiccant can remove 500+ gallons of water from a commercial space in 24 hours. This machine acts as a large dehumidifier drying out large spaces quickly. This helps to speed up the drying process, and saves you time and money when it matters most.

No matter the size of the commercial water loss, SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/ Saunders County can handle it. Once on site, our highly trained professionals will do an initial assessment to assess the damage and form a scope of work to dry out the property. They have high tech equipment that shows moisture, and the path it has taken.

SERVPRO will restore your property to pre-damage conditions. It is essential to call right away, to prevent further damage from water.

Call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/ Saunders County to make your commercial water loss, "Like it never even happened."

402-408-0134

Commercial Water Damage...No Problem

6/30/2022 (Permalink)

Our Desiccant can remove 500 gallons of water from the air in 24 hours

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County proudly offers commercial restoration services in Omaha,NE and surrounding communities. SERVPRO has invested in state-of-the-art drying equipment for any size disaster.

Large Loss? No problem.

When drying interior spaces, humidity control is crucial.Our trailer mounted desiccantincreases your productivity and profitability. It can significantly reduce drying time and save you time and money when it matters most. This machine can remove 500+ gallons of water in a 24 hour period. It can dry spaces 50,000+ sq ft. You can achieve faster and more consistent drying times. It’s also the most effective system on the market, outperforming refrigeration and convection-style heat-drying methods.

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County is the ONLY restoration company in the Omaha area to own a trailer mounted desiccant! Our techs are highly trained to use this state-of-the-art specialty equipment. Call SERVPRO today for all your water restoration needs. 402-408-0134

Let our staff make your large water loss, "Like it never even happened."

Mold Can Start to Grow in 24-hours

6/27/2022 (Permalink)

Mold can start to grow in 24-hours

Did you know mold can start to grow in less than 24 hours? If water caused your basement to flood, mold can start to appear on surfaces that day!

The first step to preventing mold growth, is to identify the cause and fix the source of moisture. Mold thrives with moisture. Steam from a shower, damp basements, plumbing leaks, and flooding are examples of sources of moisture. Also, it's important to keep the humidity levels down in your home.

Follow your nose to find the source. Mold generally has a musty odor. Mold can appear to be slimy or fuzzy, and can grow anywhere moisture is found. If you detect any mildew smells, you may have a mold issue that would benefit from professional mold remediation.

Call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest and Omaha West/Saunders County at (402)408-0134 to help remediate your mold issue today. Not only can our team help to identify the mold, they can help with options for removal and remediation of surfaces affected.

Tornadoes...what to do

6/23/2022 (Permalink)

Did you know 1,200 tornadoes hit the US each year? Omaha, NE is a tornado-prone zone. It is essential to be prepared for natural disasters. Do you know the difference in tornado watch and tornado warning?

A watch means conditions are favorable for development. A watch can be issued up to 8 hours in advance of severe weather. It also usually covers a large area. Take necessary precautions in case bad weather strikes. Keep up to date with changing weather status. Have a plan to take shelter in case WARNING status is issued.

A warning means severe weather is occurring or imminent. It covers a small area. When a warning is issued, take action immediately to protect your life! Seek shelter immediately. Stay away from doors and windows. Do not attempt to outrun a tornado.

What to do During a Tornado

Stay updated on weather alerts. Continue to listen to local news sources or weather services for tornado watches and warnings.

At Home: Go to the lowest level interior room. Stay away from windows and doors.

At workplace or school: Proceed to your tornado shelter. Do not gather in big open areas, and stay away from windows and doors.

Outside: Seek shelter in a sturdy building immediately. If no safe shelter is available, lay flat in a ditch or ravine. Cover your head.

If disaster strikes, call the trusted professionals at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County to make your storm damage, "Like it never even happened."

When Water Invades, Call SERVPRO

3/9/2022 (Permalink)

If you suffer from a water damage, call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest to make it "Like it never even happened."

Do you know the right steps to take when you have a water damage? Timing is essential when it comes to water. When your home or business suffers a water loss, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest. Our crew is WRT (Water Restoration Technician) Certified. We have the expertise and state-of-the-art drying equipment to properly restore your property after a loss.

Water Damage in Omaha, Nebraska?

Call Us Today- (402)408-0134

Even though there are no two water damages the same, the general process is the same.

Step One- Contact SERVPRO for Emergency Services

The restoration process begins when you call us. Our crew will take vital information to help us get the right equipment to you right away. Timing is vital to stop further damage from water.

Step Two- Inspection

We assess the damage and form a scope of work to be done. Our crews use thermal cameras and meters to measure moisture. This helps us to determine how far the water has traveled, and to do a proper and complete dry out. Even though your carpet and walls may appear and feel dry, water can be underneath flooring or behind the wall. Our equipment helps to find all moisture.

Step Three- Water Extraction

Extracting and removing the water is vital. We have different methods of extraction, depending on the amount of water. This step is essential to help prevent any mold growth.

Step Four- Drying

We have specialized equipment to dry out your property. The techs are highly trained to use the right equipment and the right amount to dry out your property quickly and efficiently.

Step Five- Clean and Sanitize

Our techs will clean and sanitize to restore your property to pre-damage conditions. We have specialized equipment to clean anything from carpets to contents.

If you suffer from a water damage, call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest to make it "Like it never even happened."

Why SERVPRO Over the Other Guys?

3/9/2022 (Permalink)

A large green machine on a sliver trailer, says SERVPRO

When disaster strikes, call the team with the knowledge and experience, the state-of-the-art equipment, and compassion at each step of the process.

Aren't all restoration companies the same? What sets SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest apart from the rest?

Education: We know that knowledge is power! We have invested in all of our techs to take specialized training in water restoration. All of our techs are WRT (Water Damage Restoration Technician) certified. This is specialized certification through the IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) that gives techs a better concept of water damage, it's effects and techniques for drying of structures. Our leadership team has several years of experience in water mitigation as well as reconstruction. Lathe leads the team with several certifications and years of cleanup, restoration and construction experience.

Equipment: We have invested in specialized state-of-the-art drying and cleaning equipment. The trailer mounted desiccant dehumidifier can remove 500+ gallons of water from a large space in a 24 hour period. It can dry spaces 50,000 + sq ft. This saves you time and money when it matters most. The complete ultrasonic cleaning system can be used to restore personal belongings instead of the cost to replace. The media blasting machine can remove soot and smoke damage, mold, and even graffiti from property. SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest has also invested in a brand new duct cleaning machine. We take pride in our arsenal of specialized drying equipment.

Customer Service: We value our reputation. The techs are there to explain the process in full, address any questions or concerns, and help to get your property back to pre-damage condition. We strive to make the restoration process seamless for the customer. At the end of a job, we want to make sure the customer is happy with our services and would recommend us in the future.

Faster to Any Disaster: We know when you have an emergency, you need someone there fast! Flooding and water emergencies don't wait for regular business hours, and neither do we. Our crews are on call and ready to help 24/7- including all holidays. The faster we can start the initial assessment process, the faster the water extraction process can start. Timing is essential to prevent any secondary damage.

When disaster strikes, call the team with the knowledge and experience, the state-of-the-art equipment, and compassion at each step of the process. SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest proudly serving Omaha, NE and surrounding communities.

What To Do Until Help Arrives

3/9/2022 (Permalink)

Three people cleaning wearing full white suits with full face masks.

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest has trained professionals ready to help 24/7/365- including ALL major holidays.

Biohazard contaminants should be considered very dangerous as they can cause serious health issues. Some common biohazards are sewer backups and flood water. SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest has the proper equipment, training, and protective gear necessary to safely make any biohazard situation "Like it never even happened".

Examples of Biohazards

Mold

COVID and other viral pathogens

Crime Scenes

Bodily Fluids

Hoarding

Animal Infestation

Flood Waters

Sewage Backups

Call (402)408-0134 for your biohazard cleanup needs!

After a biohazard has been found, make sure you clear the area if deemed unsafe. Call the appropriate emergency personnel if life-threatening. Call a professional restoration company to safely mitigate the hazardous situation. Flood water and sewage backups should be considered dangerous. Flood water can contain harmful contaminates. Biohazard situations don't wait for regular business hours, neither do we. SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest has trained professionals ready to help 24/7/365- including ALL major holidays.

Keep Your Pipes From Freezing

1/18/2022 (Permalink)

With temperatures dropping below freezing almost every night, it’s time to start thinking about how to keep your home or business safe from freezing pipes. Here are some tips that can help you through the winter:

Insulate exposed water lines in areas that are not heated
Irrigation systems that are exposed should be taken out or insulated
Drain any outside faucets or water lines
Turn off inside drain pipes that lead outside
Shut off irrigation systems
Close doors and windows tightly so cold air does not find its way inside

If your pipes do freeze, don’t panic. Before this becomes a major issue, there are a few things you can try so they don’t burst.

Soak towels with warm water and wrap them around the frozen pipes
Use a hairdryer on a low setting and apply heat to affected pipes
Do not apply excessive or overpowering heat to the pipes

There is a chance even if you follow these precautions that your pipes could still freeze and burst. If this happens to you, please consider contacting SERVPRO® of Omaha Southwest for help. We have a team of trained professionals that will be there on the spot to help you in your time of need.

Protecting Yourself and Others From COVID-19

11/7/2021 (Permalink)

A man in a white suit, gloves, and mask spraying disinfectant from a green fogger.

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County follows a three-step process for confirmed COVID cleaning.

As COVID-19 cases continue to rise throughout the country, it is more important now than ever to take precautions to keep you and your loved ones safe. Make sure you follow the CDC guidelines to ensure you are being as safe as possible. That means wash your hands often – especially when you are preparing food, after you use the restroom, after leaving a public place, and before touching your face or mask. Make sure you are avoiding close contact and wearing a mask when around others. If possible, try to maintain 6 feet (or two arms’ length) between yourself and anyone who does not live in your household. Following these guidelines will help keep you and others as safe as possible.

If you come in contact with someone that contracts COVID-19, begin a quarantine period and monitor yourself for symptoms. SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County follows a three-step process for confirmed COVID cleaning. First, we clean all surfaces 7' and down. Second, we use our EPA registered disinfectant to mist throughout the entire cleaning area. We use a ULV fogger to apply our disinfectant. The fogger gives the solution an electrostatic charge, allowing it to wrap conductive surfaces with an effective and even coverage. Last, our crew will do a final wipe down, and ensure no residue is left behind. SERVPRO tailors the cleaning scope to match the needs at hand. Each job can vary depending on if it's a confirmed case or preventative cleaning and the space that needs to be cleaned and disinfected.

Call the cleaning specialists at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County for all your cleaning needs at 402-408-0134.

7 Areas Where Mold Could Be Growing in Your Home

11/1/2021 (Permalink)

We don’t often like to think about it, but mold has the potential to grow almost anywhere inside of your home. All homes have the main elements to grow mold – oxygen, warmth, darkness, the inhabitance of mold spores, and a surface where it can form. Adding moisture, whether it is from a leaky pipe, heavy rain, or other outside factors is when you will start to see the mold begin to grow. It is entirely possible that you could already have mold in your home without knowing.

Areas to Look for Mold

Bathroom
As you may have guessed, bathrooms can be a breeding ground for mold. It is important to check your shower walls, bathtub, sink, & toilet areas. These are key places where moisture can be found, and if these are not properly maintained you may be looking at an unwanted mess.

Kitchen
Ranging from food that is forgotten about, to dishes that need to be cleaned – the kitchen is another area where mold is commonly found. In these instances, you should look in and under your sink, in and behind your refrigerator, behind your stove and microwave, and your trash cans. These areas are typical for finding leftover food that you may have forgotten about and you will want to rid of those immediately.

Bedroom
One area that you may not expect to find mold would be your bedroom. If you don’t have a mold-proof mattress or water-proof mattress cover, there is potential for moisture to seep into your mattress and gather mold. You will also want to be conscious of your windows and windowsills as this is a place where condensation can form. If this is not cleaned properly, mold can and will grow.

Living Room
If you are one who loves growing house plants, you will need to be wary of moisture that these plants can hold. If untreated, these can be a significant source of mold growth. Besides house plants, make sure that you always keep your couch cushions dry, and if applicable have your fireplace and chimney cleaned by a professional. These are all areas moisture can gather and mold can grow if unnoticed.

Attic
Since an attic is usually a dark room in your home, it has considerable potential for mold growth. Be sure to frequently check for leaks or water can pour in and create mold. Another area to check would be in your insulation and vents. These are two places that if not cleaned properly have the chance to also build mold.

Basement
Especially when it rains, basements are one area that you need to make sure stay clean or they can harbor mold. When looking for mold, you will want to check near any pipes, ducting, and vents. If your house has a sump pump or if your water heater is in your basement, these are areas that moisture can build up.

Garage
Especially when used for storage, you will want to check up on your garage as much as possible. When storage items aren’t frequently moved around, this gives mold the chance to grow as it can latch onto these surfaces if there is any moisture on them.

Evidently, there are many areas that mold can grow in your own home. Make sure you are checking and cleaning these areas frequently so you can ensure your own safety. If you do happen to find mold in any of these areas, call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest and Omaha West/Saunders County at (402)408-0134 to remediate your mold issue today. Our team will not only help you identify the mold you find, but we will give you options for complete removal and remediation of all surfaces that are affected.

Water Damage Restoration in Omaha, Nebraska

11/1/2021 (Permalink)

After a fire or flood having a trusted team of professionals to call who can come in and get the work done quickly is critical. SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest provides complete water damage restoration in Omaha, NE. It may be basement flooding due to a bad foundation or water damage cleanup in Omaha, NE after a flood occurs outside of the home. Rely on our team to help you.

When To Call for Water Damage Cleanup Services in Omaha, NE
There are many reasons to call our team to help you. Recognizing the signs of water damage in your home is the first step. That may include a musky smell, dampness in the basement, or areas of standing water. Consider a few answers to your most common questions:

Does water damage get worse over time?
Yes, it can worsen over time as the foundation becomes weaker due to the presence of water. Walls and other surfaces absorb the water, making them less stable, allowing more water in.

Does water damage happen immediately?
It can happen immediately if there is structural damage to the area. It can happen over time, too. That’s why it is so important to always pay close attention to changing conditions in your home.

What happens if you don’t fix water damage?
Water that remains in place will allow mold and bacteria to thrive, causing possible health effects to you and your family. Over time, this can also lead to structural damage of the home, making it more likely that you will have foundation problems.

Can water damage make you sick?
Yes, it takes just 8 to 12 hours for standing water to begin to grow mold, especially when there is a high amount of warmth present in the area. This can be especially harmful to those with allergies or asthma, but it can lead to health effects for many people.

What does water damage restoration include?
Water damage restoration begins with the removal of damaged and wet materials that cannot be cleaned. It includes cleaning all surfaces to minimize any potential mold buildup. In addition to this, all repairs can be made to restore the home in safe condition.

How long does it take to repair water damage?
This really depends on what is involved. Most of the time water damage begins with the removal of water and the drying out process, which can take hours to days. The cleaning and restoration work can take longer depending on how extensive it is.

What are the top benefits of water damage restoration?
Water damage restoration ensures your home is safe again for your family to live in. It also helps to protect the structural integrity of the home.

Mold Damage Remediation in Omaha, NE
Our mold damage remediation services in Omaha, NE provide the relief you need from mold. That includes removing all areas of mold, drying out and cleaning the space, and working closely with you to avoid recurrence.

Why Trust Us with Water Damage Restoration in Omaha, NE?
SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest offers everything you need, including 24-hour emergency service and highly trained restoration technicians that can handle even the worst situations. You can depend on us as a locally owned and operated company. We use the most advanced restoration and cleanings services. Call us today for immediate help.

It's Time To Prepare For the Season Ahead

10/25/2021 (Permalink)

Preparing for the upcoming seasons can save you money from costly storm damage that could have been prevented.

INDOORS- Check all windows and doors to make sure there are no drafts. Have your furnace inspected regularly. Change the filter to your furnace. Check to ensure your carbon monoxide devices and smoke detectors have new batteries and are in good working condition. Make sure your thermostat has new batteries, and is functioning well.

OUTDOORS- Do a roof check. Make sure you don't have any loose or missing shingles. Get them replaced or fixed before winter hits. Clean out your gutters and check the downspouts. Disconnect the garden hoses, and store them inside. Drain your sprinkler systems to avoid any water damage to your home. Service your winter equipment now.

Preparing for the upcoming seasons can save you money from costly storm damage that could have been prevented. Once you have completed the maintenance, sit back and enjoy the beautiful changing seasons, knowing you are ready for whatever Mother Nature throws your way.

Time to Prepare Your Omaha Business for Winter

10/25/2021 (Permalink)

Winter storms can be dangerous and cause great stress to businesses, so it is essential to have a plan.

Ensure your furnace is cleaned and working properly. Also, change the filter.

Line up snow/ice removal. Make sure they are able to have the sidewalks and driveways cleared before anyone arrives to work. Have extra salt on hand for sidewalks. The last thing anyone wants is for someone to fall.

Shut off any outside water source, and have the lines cleared. This will help to prevent frozen or burst pipes when the temperatures drop.

Have a plan for staff. Let them know where to check for any weather related delays. Also, who they need to call if weather prevents them from coming to work. Add a storm damage restoration team to your list of emergency contacts in case of emergency.

Winter storms can be dangerous and cause great stress to businesses, so it is essential to have a plan.

Professional Commercial COVID Cleaning Services

10/7/2021 (Permalink)

A man in a white suit, gloves, and mask wiping a table off.

SERVPRO has been known as leaders in the cleaning and restoration world.

SERVPRO understand the value in business owners being able to reassure their staff and customers that they are doing all possible to protect against COVID. SERVPRO has been known as leaders in the cleaning and restoration world, and strictly adheres to protocols set forth by the CDC (Center for Disease Control & Prevention).

SERVPRO follows the CDC guidelines on cleaning for viral pathogens. First, it is important to pre-clean all surfaces before disinfecting. We use an EPA registered disinfectant throughout the area. Disinfecting is killing germs on surfaces or objects. The ULV fogger we use gives the disinfectant an electrostatic charge, allowing it to wrap conductive surfaces with an even coverage. A final wipe down is done to ensure no residue is left behind.

Each commercial cleaning job is different, depending on the size and type of space, and if it is a preventative clean or a confirmed COVID clean. We tailor the cleaning scope to match the needs at hand. Call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County with all your cleaning needs.

Using Ozone for Odor Removal

10/6/2021 (Permalink)

Any home or business owner that has had to face the after math of fire, knows the lingering odor of smoke is unpleasant. A simple surface clean doesn't always get rid of the odor. SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County has state-of-the-art equipment to remediate fire and smoke damage.

What is Ozone? Ozone is a molecule composed of three atoms of oxygen. The oxygen that we breath contains two atoms of energy. The third atom of oxygen can detach and reattach to molecules of other substances, which changes their chemical composition. This machine oxidizes and removes odor. These machine are not limited to odors from smoke. They can be helpful in many odorous situations.

Our IICRC certified techs are highly trained in smoke and odor removal. For situations that may seem impossible to remove the odor, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County.

Categories and Classes of Water Damage

10/1/2021 (Permalink)

A hallway with wet carpet that says Our goal is to help make it "Like it never even happened." SERVPRO

The category and class of water damage decide what type and the amount of equipment needed.

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest and Omaha West/ Saunders County are known as the leaders in restoration. Our techs follow the IICRC's (Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification) S500 Standard for Professional Water Damage Restoration. The techs will assess the damage, and determine the category and class. These help determine the amount and type of drying equipment needed.

Category 1: Refers to clean water, or water that does not pose a threat to humans. A broken water supply line would be an example of this category. Note: A Category 1 can become a Category 2 after 48 hours.

Category 2: Water is also called gray water. This means that the water is contaminated and may cause sickness of ingested. This type of water contains microorganisms. Overflow from toilet bowls, or an appliance leak would be category 2.

Category 3: Water is known as black water. This type of water is unsanitary, as it contains bacteria and other organisms that cause sickness. The possible sources of black water damage include sewage problems and contamination of standing water.

There are also several classes of water damage. The class of damage is important when assessing water damage repair options.

Class 1: is limited water intrusion in a room. Materials absorb very little of the water from this type of damage. Water damage repair is the easiest in this type of situation. Water intrusion were wet, represents less than 5% of the combined floor, walls, and ceiling in the space.

Class 2: has a fast rate of evaporation, which means that carpets and cushions may be damaged. Water damage repair is more difficult when it involves class 2 damage. 5%- 40% of the combined floor, walls, and ceiling are affected.

Class 3: has the great amount of absorption. Over 40% of the floor, walls, and ceiling are affected.

Call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County for all your water restoration needs.

When the Pipes Burst in Your Omaha Business

10/1/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage can be one of the most devastating losses to a business if not taken care of properly. The more plumbing fixtures a business has, the greater the chance of a water damage. With water damage, timing is crucial.

There are several different scenarios that may lead to a water damage in your Omaha business. With Omaha's cold winters, pipes can easily freeze with below normal temperatures. If plumbing is on an exterior wall, there is a greater chance of a frozen pipe. Appliances that have water attached to them are another source of water damage in a commercial space. Toilets and sinks can overflow and cause extensive damage.

Call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County for all your commercial restoration needs. Our crews are highly trained and available 24/7- including all holidays. We are able to respond to your water damage quickly! Our state-of-the-art equipment sets us apart from the rest!

Why SERVPRO Over the Other Guys?

9/30/2021 (Permalink)

A green machine in the bottom of the picture with a tall grey building in the background.

This desiccant helped to dry out a large hotel.

Why SERVPRO?

1. Locally Owned and Operated, National Support

All SERVPRO franchises are independently owned and operated. SERVPRO has over 1800 franchises in the US and Canada. SERVPRO owners have resources across the country, with years of experience and knowledge in all things restoration and cleaning. When disaster strikes, rest assured SERVPRO will be able to handle any size disaster.

2. Highly Trained Professionals

Our SERVPRO crew is highly trained in cleaning and restoration. All of our techs are WRT (Water Damage Restoration Technician) certified through the IICRC. The IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) certifies and sets the standards for the cleaning and restoration industry. Our team understands that disaster doesn't always strike at the most convenient time. Our crews are ready and waiting 24/7- including all holidays. We are faster to any disaster.

3. Advanced Specialized Equipment

The IICRC sets practical standards for restoration and cleaning. In the IICRC S500 for water damage, it incorporates psychometry. Psychometry involves the manipulation of temperature and relative humidity to remove moisture and dry a property quickly and effectively. An infrared camera may be used to identify water location for thorough water removal. Hygrometers can be used to measure the extent of moisture saturation. This helps to find lurking moisture even when it appears dry. Our desiccant can remove 500+ gallons of water in a 24 hour period. In addition to the desiccant, we have an arsenal of high tech drying equipment.

Tips to Prepare for Winter Storms in Omaha

9/30/2021 (Permalink)

Winter weather can cause catastrophic damage in the Midwest. Winter storms and blizzards can bring extreme cold, freezing rain, snow, ice, and high winds. Storms can have little warning, and can last for several days. With the high winds, power can be knocked out, leaving many without a heat source.

Prepare for a Winter Storm

Make sure your home is properly insulated. Open cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate around your pipes. Keep a slow trickle of water flowing through faucets to help prevent frozen pipes.

Gather plenty of food, water, medicine, and other supplies like batteries. You want to have enough in case a storm keeps you home for awhile. Keep an eye on the weather by staying up to date on all weather alerts for your area.

When the storm hits, stay off the roads as much as possible. Road conditions and visibility can deteriorate quickly. Stay inside as much as possible. Frostbite and hypothermia can develop quickly in cold temperatures.

Planning and preparing ahead of time can prevent unwanted winter storm disasters.

SERVPRO Can Help Restore Your Contents After a Fire

9/30/2021 (Permalink)

Did you know electronics can be cleaned using an ultrasonic system? SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County understands that it's important to get your contents cleaned to pre-fire damage, and back to the homeowner as quickly as possible. SERVPRO has invested in a state-of-the-art ultrasonic system.

HOW IT WORKS: Bubbles are created by sounds waves as the waves move through the water. These bubbles implode as fast as they are created, causing tremendous vacuum energy. It's the combination of heat and pressure that gives the ultrasonic it's amazing cleaning power.

FAST & EFFICIENT: Ultrasonic cleaning can be done in 30 seconds to a few minutes. A tiny pressure wave caused by the bubbles imploding, reaches into nooks and crannies of delicate items, and breaks up the dirt and contaminants. This process is more efficient than cleaning by hand.

This machine can clean computers, coffee makers, electrical cord, lamps, fans, consoles, blinds, filters, figurine, stuffed animals, phones, TV's and so much more. This process can quickly clean your contents after a fire damage, and restore you property to pre-fire conditions.

Call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County for all your fire restoration needs.

Large Water Damage in a Condo Complex

9/30/2021 (Permalink)

A condo unit experienced a large water loss from a roof leak. Once on site, our production manager and crew assessed the damage, and put together a scope of work to be done. Each unit's damage was a little different, and required a different amount of drying equipment.

Drying Equipment

Air Movers- These are energy efficient, high velocity, and can drastically speed up the drying time. Our air movers can chain together, and only use 1.9 amps. There are different types to use depending on where and how extensive the damage is.

Dehumidifiers- These work by removing excess moisture and humidity from the air. Dehumidifiers are commonly used along side of the air movers. This helps to prevent secondary damage, such as mold.

Desiccant Dehumidifier- Our trailer mounted desiccant can remove 500+ gallons of water per day. It can dry spaces 50,000 SF+. This is ideal for large commercial spaces. It dries quickly and efficiently to save time and money.

With our arsenal of state-of-the-art drying equipment, we were able to dry this condo complex out quickly! Call the professionals at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County for all your water damage restoration needs.

Teaching Kids Fire Safety is Essential

9/30/2021 (Permalink)

A little child holding a fire hose, wearing a fire hat.

It's essential to teach our kids fire safety and prevention.

Did you know that the US Fire Administration estimates 300 deaths and $280 million dollars in property damage is destroyed each year as a result of children playing with fire? Adults generally know quite a bit about preventing fires, and fire safety, but what about our children? It's essential to teach our kids fire safety and prevention.

1. Prevent Fires- Keep all lighters, matches and other ignitable substances out the reach of children. Use flame-less candles to prevent the risk of fire. Keep children away from the stove while cooking.

2. Smoke Alarms- Install smoke alarms throughout your home. Make sure to check the batteries often. Educate your children on smoke alarms, and what to do when they hear one.

3. Fire Escape Plan- Make an escape plan for your home. Practice the fire plan with all family members at least twice a year.

4. Get Out & Stay Out- Make sure children know the exit plan, and to stay outside. Everyone needs to know how to call 9-1-1.

Educating your children on fire safety is one of the best methods of preventing a household fire.

Tornado Safety Tips

9/20/2021 (Permalink)

Did you know 1,200 tornadoes hit the US each year? Omaha, NE is a tornado-prone zone. It is essential to be prepared for natural disasters. Do you know the difference in tornado watch and tornado warning?

A watch means conditions are favorable for development. A watch can be issued up to 8 hours in advance of severe weather. It also usually covers a large area. Take necessary precautions in case bad weather strikes. Keep up to date with changing weather status. Have a plan to take shelter in case WARNING status is issued.

A warning means severe weather is occurring or imminent. It covers a small area. When a warning is issued, take action immediately to protect your life! Seek shelter immediately. Stay away from doors and windows. Do not attempt to outrun a tornado.

What to do During a Tornado

Stay updated on weather alerts. Continue to listen to local news sources or weather services for tornado watches and warnings.

At Home: Go to the lowest level interior room. Stay away from windows and doors.

At workplace or school: Proceed to your tornado shelter. Do not gather in big open areas, and stay away from windows and doors.

Outside: Seek shelter in a sturdy building immediately. If no safe shelter is available, lay flat in a ditch or ravine. Cover your head.

If disaster strikes, call the trusted professionals at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County to make your storm damage, "Like it never even happened."

Why You Should Call a Professional for Your Storm Damage

9/20/2021 (Permalink)

A stormy sky with lightning that says, "when lightning strikes Servpro strikes back!

When the storm strikes, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/ Saunders County to properly and quickly restore your home o

The storm tore through the area, and now the aftermath remains. After a storm moves through, you may be left with wind damage, flood damage, and more. Storms can cause significant damage to your residence or business. Calling a professional restoration company can prevent secondary damage and help to restore any damage to your property.

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/ Saunders County has the expertise and skilled professionals with years of experience restoring homes and businesses. SERVPRO has state-of-the-art equipment and techniques to handle any storm damage that may happen.

With flooding, can come significant water damage. Removing the water quickly is important, as mold can develop in 24 hours.

Why SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/ Saunders County?

1. Faster to any disaster. Our highly trained techs are available and ready 24/7/365. Our crews can respond immediately, as we understand timing is essential with any storm damage.

2. State-of-art-equipment. We have invested in specialized drying and cleaning equipment. This allows our crews to help restore instead of replace your property. Our equipment allows us to dry your property quickly and effectively, preventing secondary damage. This equipment saves you time and money when it matters most.

3. Highly trained professionals. Our technicians are all WRT (Water Damage Restoration Technician) certified through the IICRC. The IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) sets the standards in cleaning and restoration.

When the storm strikes, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/ Saunders County to properly and quickly restore your home or business.

The Storm Hit, Now What?

9/17/2021 (Permalink)

There are so many questions after your Omaha, NE home or business is flooded due to a storm. What should I do now? Who should I call? Follow these steps to assure your taken care of:

AVOID ADDITIONAL RISKS- Disconnect all the electronics in your home, these can start fires if left on. Contact utility companies if you suspect damage to water, gas, electric, or sewer lines.
TAKE PICTURES- Before you remove any water or make repairs, fully document the damage of your home by taking photos or videos. Digital photos are best so they can easily be transferred and shared.The best approach is take a photo from each corner of the room, so you have overall photos of each room.
PROTECT YOUR HEALTH- Even if the water in your home is clear, it could be contaminated by sewage or household chemicals. Wear gloves when removing water-damaged possessions, throw away any food that may have come in contact with the flood water.
CALL YOUR INSURANCE COMPANY-Call your insurance agent as soon as possible after the flood. Always have their number on hand in your emergency bag. Document the damage, communication, and notify them of any repairs.
REMOVE WATER/MITIGATE MOLD DAMAGE- Have a restoration company like SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest remove the water quickly. Time is sensitive to prevent secondary damage when dealing with water damage. SERPVRO has different specialized equipment that can be used to extract water quickly and effectively. Mold can also develop within 24-48 hours after a flood.

Call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest and Omaha West/Saunders County to help cleanup your storm damage. 402-408-0134. Our highly trained crews are available 24/7/365. Storms don't wait for regular business hours, and neither do we.

Commercial Water Damage in Omaha, NE? No problem.

9/17/2021 (Permalink)

Our desiccant can remove over 500 gallons in 24 hours! This saves you time and money!

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County proudly offers commercial restoration services in Omaha,NE and surrounding communities. SERVPRO has invested in state-of-the-art drying equipment for any size disaster.

Large Loss? No problem.

When drying interior spaces, humidity control is crucial.Our trailer mounted desiccantincreases your productivity and profitability. It can significantly reduce drying time and save you time and money when it matters most. This machine can remove 500+ gallons of water in a 24 hour period. It can dry spaces 50,000+ sq ft. You can achieve faster and more consistent drying times. It’s also the most effective system on the market, outperforming refrigeration and convection-style heat-drying methods.

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County is the ONLY restoration company in the Omaha area to own a trailer mounted desiccant! Our techs are highly trained to use this state-of-the-art specialty equipment. Call SERVPRO today for all your water restoration needs. 402-408-0134

Let our staff make your large water loss, "Like it never even happened."

Top Causes of Commercial Water Damage

9/17/2021 (Permalink)

It's crucial to take care of any signs of water damage immediately.

It's crucial to take care of any signs of water damage immediately. Commercial restoration services can be more challenging than residential. The size and structure of the property, the extent of the water damage, and the number of occupants will greatly affect the restoration process. Two commercial spaces with the same square footage could have completely different mitigation plans. While some issues are inevitable, many issues leading to water damage are preventable.

1. Damaged pipes/plumbing- look for drippy, or leaking pipes. Check ceiling for dark areas indication water damage. Toilets also seem to be a major cause of commercial water damage.

2. Poorly sealed windows and doors: Rain and snow can easily enter your business through poorly fitted windows.

3. Roof leak: The roof is the main defense against mother nature. Check often for damaged or missing shingles.

4. Appliances: Check appliances such as a dishwasher, refrigerator, and commercial coffee maker to ensure the plumbing is correct and not leaking.

5. HVAC: The heating and cooling unit is a major culprit of commercial water damage. Make sure to inspect it regularly for any signs of water leaks or damage.

If you need commercial restoration services, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County.

Why SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County

9/17/2021 (Permalink)

When disaster strikes, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest!

Aren't all restoration companies the same? What sets SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County apart from the rest?

Education: We know that knowledge is power! We have invested in all of our techs to take specialized training in water restoration. All of our techs are WRT (Water Damage Restoration Technician) certified. This is specialized certification through the IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) that gives techs a better concept of water damage, it's effects and techniques for drying of structures. Our leadership team has several years of experience in water mitigation as well as reconstruction. Lathe leads the team with several certifications and years of cleanup, restoration and construction experience.

Equipment: We have invested in specialized state-of-the-art drying and cleaning equipment. The trailer mounted desiccant dehumidifier can remove 500+ gallons of water from a large space in a 24 hour period. It can dry spaces 50,000 + sq ft. This saves you time and money when it matters most. The complete ultrasonic cleaning system can be used to restore personal belongings instead of the cost to replace. The media blasting machine can remove soot and smoke damage, mold, and even graffiti from property. SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest has also invested in a brand new duct cleaning machine. We take pride in our arsenal of specialized drying equipment.

Customer Service: We value our reputation. The techs are there to explain the process in full, address any questions or concerns, and help to get your property back to pre-damage condition. We strive to make the restoration process seamless for the customer. At the end of a job, we want to make sure the customer is happy with our services and would recommend us in the future.

Faster to Any Disaster: We know when you have an emergency, you need someone there fast! Flooding and water emergencies don't wait for regular business hours, and neither do we. Our crews are on call and ready to help 24/7- including all holidays. The faster we can start the initial assessment process, the faster the water extraction process can start. Timing is essential to prevent any secondary damage.

When disaster strikes, call the team with the knowledge and experience, the state-of-the-art equipment, and compassion at each step of the process. SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County proudly serving Omaha, NE and surrounding communities.

Causes of Property Damage in Commercial Spaces

9/17/2021 (Permalink)

Two men holding a box with a house in it.

Large or small, SERVPRO can handle them all!

Commercial property damage can be frustrating and overwhelming for any property owner. SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County offer a variety of commercial restoration services to restore your property to pre-damage conditions.

The most common types of commercial loss are:

1. Water Damage: Omaha was hit hard with severe flooding a year ago, and many commercial spaces were affected. Frozen or busted pipes, appliance malfunctions, and HVAC issues lead the board for causes of commercial water damage.

2. Fire Damage: Cooking equipment, heating equipment, electrical and lighting equipment, smoking materials, and intentional fire setting are the top five most common causes of fire in commercial setting, according to the National Fire Protection Association.

3. Mold: Mold is found everywhere and grow on almost anything if moisture is present. It can develop in less than 24 hours. Mold spores are microscopic thrive on moisture. Mold has the potential to cause negative health effects.

Along with these common commercial restoration services, SERVPRO also offers commercial cleaning, duct cleaning, carpet cleaning, and graffiti removal. When it comes to commercial restoration services, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County at 402-408-0134.

Services offered by SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest

9/17/2021 (Permalink)

green machine with a tall building in the background

This desiccant can help remove moisture quickly in a large space.

Do you know the services SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County offers?