Recent Posts

Interactive Flood Mapping

5/16/2024 (Permalink)

Flood Zones Flood Zone Map

Do you know if you are in a flood zone? Are you properly insured.  The zones do change.  Check out this interactive tool.  Flood map

If you should incur a flood or other disaster, contact SERVPRO® of Fernandina Beach/ Jacksonville Northeast.  We are here for you whether you are in a condominium, home, farm or warehouse!  

Are You Ready for Flooding?

5/8/2024 (Permalink)

Are You Ready? Are You Ready For Flooding?

Preparing for a Flood
Make a plan for your household, including your pets, so that you and your family know what to do, where to go, and what you will need to protect yourselves from flooding. Learn and practice evacuation routes, shelter plans, and flash flood response. Gather supplies, including non-perishable foods, cleaning supplies, and water for several days, in case you must leave immediately or if services are cut off in your area.

In Case of Emergency
Keep important documents in a waterproof container. Create password-protected digital copies. Protect your property. Move valuables to higher levels. Declutter drains and gutters. Install check valves.

  • Evacuate immediately, if told to evacuate. Never drive around barricades. Local responders use them to safely direct traffic out of flooded areas.
  • Contact your healthcare provider If you are sick and need medical attention. Wait for further care instructions and shelter in place, if possible. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 9-1-1.
  • Listen to EAS, NOAA Weather Radio or local alerting systems for current emergency information and instructions regarding flooding.
  • Do not walk, swim or drive through flood waters. Turn Around. Don’t Drown!
  • Stay off bridges over fast-moving water. Fast-moving water can wash bridges away without warning.
  • Stay inside your car if it is trapped in rapidly moving water. Get on the roof if water is rising inside the car.
  • Get to the highest level if trapped in a building. Only get on the roof if necessary and once there signal for help. Do not climb into a closed attic to avoid getting trapped by rising floodwater.

Staying Safe After a Flood

Pay attention to authorities for information and instructions. Return home only when authorities say it is safe.

  • Avoid driving except in emergencies.
  • Wear heavy work gloves, protective clothing and boots during clean up and use appropriate face coverings or masks if cleaning mold or other debris. 
  • People with asthma and other lung conditions and/or immune suppression should not enter buildings with indoor water leaks or mold growth that can be seen or smelled. Children should not take part in disaster cleanup work.
  • Be aware that snakes and other animals may be in your house.
  • Be aware of the risk of electrocution. Do not touch electrical equipment if it is wet or if you are standing in water. Turn off the electricity to prevent electric shock if it is safe to do so.
  • Avoid wading in floodwater, which can be contaminated and contain dangerous debris. Underground or downed power lines can also electrically charge the water.
  • Use a generator or other gasoline-powered machinery ONLY outdoors and away from windows.

SERVPRO of Fernandina Beach/Jacksonville Northeast is tge premiere provider in storm and flooding cleanup/restoration and remodeling so plug our number into your phones so we are only a few taps away.

My Water Bill is High!

4/8/2024 (Permalink)

Before you assume the economy is at fault check these:

POTENTIAL CAUSES OF HIGH WATER BILLS

An unusually high water bill is most often caused by a leak or change in water use. Some common causes of high water bills include:

  • A leaking toilet, or a toilet that continues to run after being flushed, most common
  • A dripping faucet; a faucet drip can waster 20 gallons or more of water a day
  • Filling or topping off a swimming pool
  • Watering the lawn, new grass, or trees; also check for an open hose bib
  • Irrigation systems, check automated systems, you may need to reprogram
  • Water-cooled air conditioners
  • A broken water pipe or obvious leak; check the pipes and water heater in the basement or crawlspace
  • Water softener problems - cycles continuously
  • Running the water to avoid freezing water pipes during cold weather
  • Service line leaks between your water meter and your home, check for wet spots in your yard

Generally, water consumption is higher during the summer due to watering of lawns, pools, and gardening. Typically, an average family of four uses 4000-5000 gallons of water a month.  On your bill, you can see your usage each month.  If you suspect a water leak, get it fixed now and call SERVPRO® of Fernandina Beach/Jacksonville Northeast for your water damage restoration needs!

Hurricane Season Coming Soon!

3/29/2024 (Permalink)

Hurricane Season Hurricane Preparedness

Are you ready?  The task to prepare when you wait for the notification that we are in a hurricane watch.  So if you do a few hours each week, you will be ready.  Have stock of what your family( and pet family) needs and communicate it.  

  • Prepare before hurricane season starts. Atlantic hurricane season starts June 1.
  • Create an emergency communication plan with your family before a hurricane.
  • Have emergency supplies in place at home, at work and in the car.
  • Check your insurance coverage, damages caused by flooding are not covered under normal homeowner’s insurance policies.
  • Know your evacuation plan , possible evacuation routes and how to sign up for local alerts.

Always follow the instructions from local officials. Evacuate if told to do so.

Basic Disaster Supplies Kit

To assemble your kit store items in airtight plastic bags and put your entire disaster supplies kit in one or two easy-to-carry containers such as plastic bins or a duffel bag.

A basic emergency supply kit could include the following recommended items:

  • Water (one gallon per person per day for several days, for drinking and sanitation) more for families with pets! 
  • Food (at least a several-day supply of non-perishable food)
  • Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert
  • Flashlight
  • First aid kit
  • Extra batteries
  • Whistle (to signal for help)
  • Dust mask (to help filter contaminated air)
  • Plastic sheeting and duct tape 
  • Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties (for personal sanitation)
  • Wrench or pliers (to turn off utilities)
  • Manual can opener (for food)
  • Local maps
  • Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery

Additional Emergency Supplies

Consider adding the following items to your emergency supply kit based on your individual needs:

  • Soap, hand sanitizer and disinfecting wipes to disinfect surfaces
  • Prescription medications. About half of all Americans take a prescription medicine every day. An emergency can make it difficult for them to refill their prescription or to find an open pharmacy. Organize and protect your prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, and vitamins to prepare for an emergency.
  • Non-prescription medications such as pain relievers
  • Prescription eyeglasses and contact lens solution
  • Infant formula, bottles, diapers, wipes and diaper rash cream
  • Pet food and extra water for your pet
  • Cash 
  • Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records saved electronically or in a waterproof, portable container
  • Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person
  • Complete change of clothing appropriate for your climate and sturdy shoes
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Matches in a waterproof container
  • Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items
  • Mess kits, paper cups, plates, paper towels and plastic utensils
  • Paper and pencil
  • Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children

If a hurricane or any disaster damages your home,  SERVPRO® of Fernandina Beach/ Jacksonville Northeast is here to serve you! 

5 Tips to Prevent Water Damage During Spring Cleaning

3/25/2024 (Permalink)

Gutter Cleaning Gutter Cleaning to Prevent Water Damage

Tip #1: Inspect Appliances for Leaks

Leaking appliances are a leading cause of water damage in residential settings. Dishwashers, refrigerators, water heaters  and washing machines are water damage disasters waiting to happen, so it is essential to regularly inspect these appliances to ensure that they are functioning correctly and have not been damaged.

  • Look for signs of small leaks that may usually go unnoticed
  • Replace defective, cracked, or torn seals
  • Inspect all supply hoses
  • Make sure all valve connections are tight
  • Look into acquiring a leak detector
  • Inspect the dishwasher door gaskets after cleaning
  • Consider upgrading to stainless steel cord instead of plastic supply tubing for water supply tubes to the washing machine

Tip #2: Survey the Roof and Attic for Damage and Leaks

Roof leaks are another top cause of water leaks. A leaking roof allows water intrusion to damage the ceiling, attic, and walls, causing wooden building materials to rot and mold growth to occur.
If the home has an attic, look for any signs or smells of water damage or microbial growth.

If you notice anything that needs closer inspection or repair, call a roofer.

Tip #3: Remove Clogs and Blockages From Gutters and Downspouts

Gutters and downspouts help guide water away from the foundation of a house, preventing water from entering the structure or compromising the foundation. When these fixtures become clogged, the water build-up can rot away the wooden exterior near the eaves and create new avenues for water to migrate into the home.

Remove leaves, moss, debris, mildew, mold, or any other obstructions. Never use a pressure washer to clean gutters and downspouts since the high pressure and heat of this cleaning method can cause damage.

Tip #4: Apply Caulk to Any Cracks or Gaps in the Home’s Exterior and Interior

Gaps and cracks are an easy entry for water to intrude into a home. Inspect the house for cracks and thorough attention to the joints and frames of windows. Use the appropriate caulk to seal the area or, for cracks in masonry and concrete, use hydraulic cement.

Tip #5: Ensure the Landscaping Does Not Direct Water Towards the Home

Warmer temperatures make spring and summer a favorite time to plan and work on landscape projects. One landscape project that can prevent water damage involves adjusting the yard so that it directs water away from the home. While most properties have grading that slopes away from the house, some properties are not graded properly, which means that water can pool near the house and compromise the foundation. Solutions that are less intrusive than adjusting the grading include a French drain, an underground drainpipe, or a dry creek.

If you incur a water damage, from any source, SERVPRO® of Fernandina Beach/Jacksonville Northeast is available 24/7 for your water damage restoration needs!

When a Disaster Takes Over a City

2/21/2024 (Permalink)

Tree Down After Storm Tree Down After a Storm

Fire. Flood. Ice. Snow. Hurricane. Mold. Each of these circumstances can have a devastating effect on your business. With more than 2210 locations in the United States and Canada, there are SERVPRO® professionals available around the clock to help with your commercial storm damage repair and restoration in any situation, big or small. We work to make it “Like it never even happened.”Natural disasters can strike without warning, but the SERVPRO Disaster Recovery Team is always ready. We are Faster to any size disaster™ because our uniquely trained professionals have the skills and knowledge to serve your specific commercial storm damage repair and restoration needs. Our network of teams mobilizes across the country in a disaster to support large-scale cleanup, restoration, and repair. When you need us, SERVPRO of Fernandina Beach/Jacksonville Northeast can be there to provide Commercial Damage Restoration, Commercial Construction Services, and Commercial Large Loss and Disaster Recovery.  Whether you live in our local territory comprised in Nassau and Duval counties, we are always here to help and when disasters such as hurricanes occur, SERVPRO franchises across the country come to aid in disaster recovery.

Pack Out Contents Safely with SERVPRO during desperate times.

2/9/2024 (Permalink)

Servpro boxes stacked in warehouse SERVPRO pack out, boxing, storing, in warehouse, safety, fire damage, content cleaning, moving services, pack out services, restoration, cleaning.

SERVPRO® offers pack-out services as part of their comprehensive restoration and cleaning services. Pack-out services are typically utilized in situations where a property has suffered grave damage due to fire, water, mold, or other disasters, and it's necessary to remove belongings from the affected area for cleaning, restoration, or storage.

Here's an overview of what you can expect from SERVPRO's pack-out services:

  1. Assessment and Inventory: Trained professionals will assess the extent of the damage and create a detailed inventory of items that need to be packed out. This inventory helps keep track of all belongings throughout the process.

  2. Packaging and Removal: SERVPRO teams carefully pack and label each item to ensure safe transportation. Fragile items may be wrapped or boxed securely to prevent further damage during transit.

  3. Transportation: Belongings are transported to a secure facility for cleaning, restoration, or storage. SERVPRO typically uses specialized vehicles equipped to handle sensitive items safely.

  4. Cleaning and Restoration: At the facility, SERVPRO employs advanced cleaning techniques and equipment to restore items to their pre-damage condition. This may include cleaning, deodorizing, and sanitizing belongings as needed.

  5. Storage: If the property is undergoing restoration, belongings may be stored securely at SERVPRO's facility until the restoration process is complete. Climate-controlled storage options may be available to protect sensitive items.

  6. Documentation: Throughout the process, SERVPRO maintains detailed documentation of all items, including photographs and written records. This documentation helps track the progress of the restoration and ensures that items are returned to their rightful owners.

  7. Return of Belongings: Once the restoration is complete, SERVPRO will coordinate the return of belongings to the property. Items are unpacked, inspected, and placed back in their original locations whenever possible.

SERVPRO's pack-out services aim to minimize disruption and help homeowners and businesses recover from disasters efficiently. By entrusting the packing, transportation, cleaning, and storage of belongings to trained professionals, property owners can focus on the restoration process with peace of mind.

Avoid DIY Disaster

1/24/2024 (Permalink)

Water damage Avoid DIY Water Damage Disasters
 

Water damage can strike at any time, often when you least expect it. Whether it's due to a burst pipe, flooding, or storm damage, knowing what to do in the immediate aftermath can make all the difference. At SERVPRO of Fernandina Beach/Jacksonville Northeast, we want to empower you with essential water damage restoration tips to help protect your property and expedite the recovery process.

Safety First:

Before you jump into restoration, prioritize your safety:

  • Ensure that the area is safe to enter, especially after a major flood or storm.
  • Turn off the electricity to avoid electrical hazards.
  • Wear appropriate safety gear, including gloves and protective clothing, when working with contaminated water.

Assess the Damage:

After safety is assured, take these steps:

  1. Document the Damage: Take photos or videos of the affected areas. This documentation will be crucial for insurance claims.

  2. Stop the Source: If possible, identify and stop the source of the water intrusion. Shut off the main water supply if needed.

  3. Protect Valuables: Remove valuable items, documents, and electronics from the affected area.

Contacting a professional restoration company is crucial. SERVPRO's experts are trained to assess and mitigate water damage effectively. The sooner you reach out, the faster the restoration process can begin.

Begin Drying and Mitigation:

While waiting for SERVPRO's team to arrive, you can take some initial steps to mitigate further damage:

  1. Remove Excess Water: Use mops or towels to remove standing water.

  2. Ventilate the Area: Use fans and open windows to promote air circulation and aid in drying.

  3. Dehumidify: If available, use a dehumidifier to remove excess moisture from the air.

  4. Move Furniture: Elevate furniture on blocks or foil to prevent further damage.

Avoid DIY Restoration:

While it's tempting to handle water damage restoration on your own, it's best left to the professionals. Water damage can lead to mold growth, structural issues, and health hazards if not addressed correctly.

Insurance Claims:

Contact your insurance company as soon as possible and provide the documentation you collected earlier. SERVPRO of Fernandina Beach/Jacksonville Northeast work directly with your insurance company to streamline the claims process.

Prevent Future Water Damage:

Once your property is restored, consider these preventative measures:

  1. Regular Maintenance: Inspect your plumbing, roof, and foundation regularly to catch potential issues before they lead to water damage.

  2. Proper Landscaping: Ensure your yard is properly graded to prevent water from flowing toward your foundation.

  3. Sump Pump: Consider installing a sump pump in your basement or crawlspace to prevent flooding.

Water damage restoration is a daunting process, but with the right steps and the help of professionals like SERVPRO of Fernandina Beach/Jacksonville Northeast, your property can be restored to its former glory. By following these tips and acting swiftly, you can minimize the impact of water damage and protect your investment. If you're faced with water damage, don't hesitate to reach out to us for a prompt and efficient restoration process. Your property's recovery is our priority.

SERVPRO handles Biohazard, no matter the severity.

1/22/2024 (Permalink)

Servpro worker with hazmat suit SERVPRO worker is handling Biohazard waste. SERVPRO worker is using proper PPE with a mask and body suit to ensure safety.

SERVPRO of Fernandina Beach/Jacksonville Northeast offers biohazard cleaning services to address situations involving hazardous materials, pathogens, and other biohazards. Biohazard cleanup requires specialized training, equipment, and adherence to safety protocols. Here are some key aspects of SERVPRO's biohazard services:

  1. Trauma and Crime Scene Cleanup:

    • SERVPRO handles cleanup after traumatic events, crime scenes, or accidents. This includes the removal of biohazardous materials, blood, bodily fluids, and other contaminants.
  2. Hoarding Cleanup:

    • Cleanup of hoarding situations often involves dealing with biohazards. SERVPRO can assist in the safe removal of biohazardous materials while addressing the unique challenges of hoarding environments.
  3. Mold Remediation:

    • While not all mold is considered a biohazard, certain types of molds can produce mycotoxins that pose health risks. SERVPRO provides mold remediation services, addressing potential biohazards associated with mold.
  4. Sewage Cleanup:

    • Sewage backups can contain harmful pathogens and contaminants, making it a biohazardous situation. SERVPRO specializes in cleaning and restoring properties affected by sewage backups.
  5. Chemical Spills and Industrial Accidents:

    • Cleanup of hazardous chemical spills or industrial accidents is part of SERVPRO's biohazard services. This involves proper handling, removal, and disposal of hazardous materials.
  6. Disinfection and Decontamination:

    • SERVPRO employs advanced cleaning and disinfection techniques to eliminate biohazards and pathogens. This is especially important in situations where infectious diseases or viruses are a concern.
  7. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):

    • SERVPRO technicians use appropriate PPE to ensure their safety while handling biohazardous materials. This includes gloves, masks, and other protective gear.
  8. Compliance with Regulations:

    • SERVPRO follows industry standards and regulations for biohazard cleanup, ensuring that the process is conducted safely and in compliance with health and safety guidelines.
  9. Insurance Assistance:

    • As with other services, SERVPRO may assist clients in coordinating insurance claims related to biohazard cleanup, simplifying the process for property owners.

Biohazard situations require immediate attention due to the potential health risks involved. Professional cleanup services, such as those offered by SERVPRO, ensure a thorough and safe remediation process.

Space Heater Safety

11/27/2023 (Permalink)

Should you ever experience a fire or smoke damage, contact SERVPRO of Fernandina Beach/Jacksonville Northeast. But here are tips for space heaters as compiled by Consumer Reports:

Using a Space Heater: Safety Tips

Half of all home heating fires happen during the months of December, January, and February—they’re mostly caused when a heater (typically an electric one) is placed too close to curtains, bedding, or upholstered furniture. Our experts, as well as the pros at the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturersand the National Fire Protection Agency offer the following safety tips:

  • Place the heater on a hard, level, and nonflammable surface. These appliances are intended to sit on the floor, not on a table.
  • Establish a 3-foot kid- and pet-free zone around the heater, and never put a space heater in a child’s room.
  • Keep the space heater at least 3 feet away from combustible materials, such as furniture, bedding, and curtains. A taller heater may need to be even further away.
  • Don’t use a heater in a workshop or garage near paint, gas cans, or matches.
  • Turn it off when you leave the room or go to bed.
  • Unplug the heater when it’s not in use by pulling the plug straight from the outlet. Check the cord for damage periodically, and don’t use the heater if the cord is frayed or worn.
  • Don’t plug another electrical device or an extension cord into the same outlet as a heater—that can cause overheating.
  • Install working smoke alarms on every level of your home and in every bedroom, and test them monthly.

    SERVPRO is near you in Fernandina Beach, Yulee, Jacksonville and more for water damage restoration, fire damage restoration and mold remediation!