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Understanding the Lake Effect: How It Influences Severe Weather | SERVPRO of Buffalo/Tonawanda
7/15/2024 (Permalink)
When storms strike, call SERVPRO of Buffalo/Tonawanda to restore your property to preloss condition faster!
Buffalo and Tonawanda, nestled near the shores of Lake Erie, experience unique weather patterns influenced significantly by the phenomenon known as the lake effect. This meteorological phenomenon occurs when cold air passes over the warmer waters of the lake, resulting in localized bands of intense rain.
At SERVPRO of Buffalo/Tonawanda, we recognize the impact of lake effects on severe weather in our community and understand the challenges it can pose to homeowners.
Enhanced Severe Weather EventsIn addition to intense snowfall, the lake effect can also enhance other forms of severe weather, such as thunderstorms and strong winds. In warmer months, the temperature contrast between the lake and the surrounding land can create instability in the atmosphere, leading to the development of thunderstorms. These storms can bring heavy rainfall, hail, and lightning, posing risks of flooding and property damage.
Intense Snowfall and PrecipitationDuring the winter months, Lake Erie’s relatively warm waters contrast sharply with the cold Arctic air masses moving across the region. This stark temperature difference triggers rapid evaporation from the lake’s surface, saturating the air with moisture.
As this moisture-laden air moves inland, it encounters colder temperatures over land, causing it to release its moisture in the form of heavy snowfall. These bands of snow can persist for hours or even days, resulting in significant accumulations that can overwhelm drainage systems and lead to water damage in homes.
Mitigating the Impact with Professional Restoration ServicesAt SERVPRO of Buffalo/Tonawanda, we specialize in mitigating the impact of severe weather on homes and businesses. Whether your property has been affected by heavy snow, flooding from intense rainfall, or wind damage from severe storms, our trained technicians are equipped to handle the restoration process promptly and efficiently.
From water extraction and drying to structural repairs and mold remediation, we provide comprehensive services to restore your property to its pre-damaged condition.
Trust SERVPRO of Buffalo/Tonawanda for Expert Storm Damage RestorationWith years of experience serving the Buffalo/Tonawanda area, SERVPRO is committed to helping our community recover from the effects of severe weather, including those influenced by lake effect. Our dedicated team is available 24⁄7 to respond to emergencies, ensuring that we can provide immediate assistance when you need it most. Let us handle the restoration process so you can focus on rebuilding and restoring normalcy to your home.
If your property has been impacted by severe weather, contact SERVPRO of Buffalo/Tonawanda today to learn more about our storm damage restoration services. We are here to help you navigate the challenges posed by lake effects and other severe weather phenomena, restoring your home and peace of mind.
Trust SERVPRO of Buffalo/Tonawanda for reliable and professional storm damage restoration services. Call us day or night.
Dealing With the Aftermath of a Strong Storm | SERVPRO of Buffalo/Tonawanda
7/2/2024 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Buffalo/Tonawanda is Here to Help® after intense summer storms affect your home or business.
When a strong storm sweeps through Buffalo/Tonawanda, it can leave a trail of destruction in its wake. From high winds to heavy rainfall, storms have the potential to cause significant damage to homes and businesses.
Knowing how to respond to storm damage promptly is crucial for minimizing further harm and expediting the recovery process. Here’s what you need to know about responding to storm damage in the Buffalo area:
Assessing the DamageSafety First: Before assessing storm damage, prioritize safety. Check for any immediate hazards such as downed power lines, gas leaks, or structural damage. If you suspect any danger, evacuate the premises and contact emergency services immediately. Once it’s safe to do so, proceed with caution when inspecting your property for damage.
Exterior Inspection: Begin by inspecting the exterior of your home or business for visible signs of damage. Look for missing roof shingles, damaged siding, broken windows, or fallen trees and branches. Take note of any structural damage or areas where water may be entering the building. Document the damage with photographs or videos to provide evidence for insurance claims.
Taking Immediate ActionEmergency Repairs: Once you’ve assessed the extent of storm damage, prioritize emergency repairs to prevent further deterioration of your property. Temporary fixes such as tarping roofs, boarding up windows, or sealing leaks can help mitigate additional damage caused by exposure to the elements. Addressing these issues promptly can help protect your property while you wait for more extensive repairs to be made.
Water Damage Restoration: If your property has experienced water damage due to storms, prompt action is crucial to prevent mold growth and structural issues. Contact a professional water damage restoration company like SERVPRO of Buffalo/Tonawanda to assess the damage and initiate cleanup and restoration efforts. Our team has the expertise and equipment to extract standing water, dry affected areas, and restore your property to pre-storm condition.
Documenting and Reporting the DamageDocumenting the Damage: To facilitate the insurance claims process, document the storm damage thoroughly. Take photographs and videos of the damage from multiple angles, capturing both the interior and exterior of your property. Keep detailed records of any emergency repairs or expenses incurred as a result of the storm damage.
Contacting Your Insurance Provider: Upon documenting the damage, contact your insurance provider to file a claim. Provide them with the evidence you’ve gathered, including photographs, videos, and written descriptions of the damage. Keep track of all communications with your insurance company and follow their instructions closely to ensure a smooth claims process.
Partner with SERVPRO of Buffalo/TonawandaResponding to storm damage requires prompt action and expertise, but you don’t have to face it alone. SERVPRO of Buffalo/Tonawanda specializes in storm damage restoration and is here to help you every step of the way. Contact us today for immediate assistance with storm damage cleanup and restoration.
Our team of professionals is available 24⁄7 to respond to emergencies and help you restore your property to its pre-storm condition. Don’t wait – call SERVPRO of Buffalo/Tonawanda now for reliable and efficient storm damage restoration services.
Dealing with storm damage? Call SERVPRO of Buffalo/Tonawanda for a quick restoration.
Understanding the Threat of Severe Thunderstorms | SERVPRO of Buffalo/Tonawanda
6/17/2024 (Permalink)
Whether its storm damage cleanup or restoration, SERVPRO of Buffalo/Tonawanda is ready to respond in a moments notice to your call.
In the Buffalo/Tonawanda area, severe thunderstorms are a common occurrence during the spring and summer months. These storms can bring heavy rain, strong winds, hail, and lightning, posing a threat to both property and personal safety. Understanding the potential dangers associated with severe thunderstorms is the first step in preparing your home and family for these weather events.
Severe thunderstorms are capable of causing a range of hazards, including flash flooding, wind damage, and power outages. Strong winds can uproot trees, damage roofs, and send debris flying, while lightning strikes can cause fires and electrical surges.
Additionally, heavy rainfall can overwhelm drainage systems, leading to localized flooding and water damage. Being aware of these risks allows homeowners to take proactive measures to mitigate potential damage and protect their property.
Preparing Your Home for Severe ThunderstormsPreparing your home for severe thunderstorms involves several key steps to minimize damage and ensure the safety of your family. Start by inspecting your property for any vulnerabilities, such as loose roof shingles, damaged trees, or clogged gutters. Secure outdoor items like patio furniture and lawn decorations to prevent them from becoming projectiles in high winds.
It’s also important to reinforce doors and windows to withstand strong winds and flying debris. Consider installing storm shutters or boarding up windows with plywood to provide added protection during severe weather. Inside your home, designate a safe area such as a basement or interior room on the lowest level to seek shelter during a storm.
Staying Safe During Severe ThunderstormsWhen severe thunderstorms are in the forecast, it’s essential to stay informed and prepared to respond quickly to changing conditions. Monitor weather alerts from trusted sources and have a plan in place for how to react in the event of severe weather. Ensure that everyone in your household knows where to go and what to do to stay safe during a storm.
During a severe thunderstorm, avoid using electrical appliances and plumbing fixtures, as lightning strikes can cause power surges and electrical fires. If you’re outdoors when a storm hits, seek shelter in a sturdy building or vehicle and avoid open fields, tall trees, and bodies of water. After the storm passes, be cautious of downed power lines, flooded areas, and other hazards when assessing damage and beginning cleanup efforts.
Trust SERVPRO of Buffalo/Tonawanda for Storm Damage RestorationDon’t wait until it’s too late to prepare for severe thunderstorms. Contact us today to learn more about our storm damage restoration services and how we can help you recover quickly and safely after a storm.
From water extraction and structural drying to debris cleanup and mold remediation, our team has the expertise and resources to handle any size disaster.
Stay safe and prepared this storm season with SERVPRO of Buffalo/Tonawanda by your side.
Grill Safety: Protecting Your Summer BBQs | SERVPRO of Buffalo/Tonawanda
6/3/2024 (Permalink)
Gather around the grill, but don't forget about fire safety! Follow these tips from SERVPRO of Buffalo/Tonawanda to ensure a fun and safe night.
As the summer sun shines bright, the enticing aroma of barbecue fills the air. Backyard grilling is a favorite pastime for many during the warmer months, bringing family and friends together for delicious meals and great memories.
However, it’s crucial to prioritize safety to prevent accidents and ensure a worry-free experience. Here are some essential grill safety tips to keep in mind this summer.
Proper Grill PlacementThe first step to grill safety is proper placement. Pay close attention to where you set up your grill:
Grill Outside: Never grill indoors, including garages or enclosed areas. Indoor grilling can lead to carbon monoxide buildup, posing a serious health risk.
Maintain Distance: Keep your grill at least 10 feet away from your house, deck railings, or any flammable materials. This distance helps prevent fires from spreading.
Level Surface: Place your grill on a flat, stable surface to prevent tipping over. Avoid placing it on uneven ground or surfaces that could cause it to wobble.
Safe Grilling PracticesOnce your grill is properly set up, follow these safety guidelines while cooking:
Never Leave Unattended: Stay close to your grill at all times while it’s in use. Leaving it unattended even for a moment can lead to accidents.
Use Long-Handled Tools: Keep a safe distance from the flames by using long-handled grilling utensils. This minimizes the risk of burns and keeps you safe.
Keep Flammables Away: Keep flammable items like paper towels, dishcloths, and plastic utensils away from the grill. Store them in a safe location to reduce the risk of fire.
Fire Safety TipsIn case of a fire, knowing how to respond quickly and effectively is crucial. Here’s what to do:
Have a Fire Extinguisher: Make sure you have a fire extinguisher nearby whenever you’re grilling. Familiarize yourself with its operation, and keep it easily accessible in case of emergency.
Control Grease Buildup: Clean your grill regularly to prevent grease buildup, which can ignite and cause a fire. Use a grill brush to remove excess grease and food residue after each use.
Know When to Call for Help: If a fire gets out of control, don’t hesitate to call 911. It’s better to seek professional help immediately rather than risk personal injury or property damage.
By following these grill safety tips, you can enjoy delicious meals with family and friends without worrying about accidents or injuries. Remember, safety is key to a successful and enjoyable grilling experience.
Our team is here to help you enjoy a worry-free summer season. Contact SERVPRO of Buffalo/Tonawanda today if your home is damaged in a fire.
Storm Planning to Keep Your Family Calm | SERVPRO of Buffalo/Tonawanda
5/15/2024 (Permalink)
When the storm has passed, call SERVPRO of Buffalo/Tonawanda to help you recover.
As thunder echoes, lightning streaks across the sky and the wail of tornado sirens fills the air, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Your furry friend paces anxiously, your little ones are on edge and you’re unsure where to start. Storm situations can be daunting, especially when storms can get really intense in a short period of time.
While we can’t control the weather, we can control how we prepare for it and react to it, ensuring everyone stays calm—especially our kiddos.
Keep reading as our team shares some simple tips to incorporate storm readiness into your family’s routine, so everyone stays calm, cool and collected when faced with a real emergency.
Recognizing Warning SignsThough we can all spot a sunny day vs. a cloudy one, knowing the signs of an approaching storm isn’t always as obvious. Even if the forecast doesn’t mention storms, it’s crucial to stay vigilant. Teach your kids to spot the signs of an impending storm—like swirling clouds, ominous skies, distant thunder and lightning flashes—and to head indoors immediately.
Also, familiarize them with the sound of a tornado siren and when it might go off. Use scheduled siren tests as an opportunity to get them used to the sound in a non-emergency setting. Practice having them listen for the siren and time how quickly they can get to your designated safe spot.
Preparation Is KeyHave you and your family created a storm emergency plan? This involves discussing how and when to get to your safe spot and ensuring your emergency kit is packed and ready to go.
Identify the lowest level of your home and find an inner room, ideally one without windows, to serve as your safe spot. Keep this area clear and easily accessible at all times. Consider practicing by building a fort with heavy objects like tables or desks to reinforce the importance of staying safe during a storm.
Involve your kids in putting together your emergency kit. Let them help choose items to include, such as their favorite snacks, shelf-stable water and personal belongings. Have each child pick out a flashlight and mark it with their name, and don’t forget spare batteries, candles, matches and any necessary medications.
Finally, let your kids pick out special games or activities to keep them occupied during severe weather. These distractions can provide comfort and entertainment if the power goes out or you need to hunker down for a while.
Staying CalmSevere weather can be scary for everyone, especially youngsters. Reassure your kids that while storms can be intense, the likelihood of experiencing severe damage or a direct tornado hit is pretty low. Most storm-related damage usually focuses on roofs, siding and property.
Focus on keeping your children calm and engaged during severe weather. Narrate the situation in a light-hearted way as it unfolds, and tackle the challenges together with confidence. With preparation and a positive attitude, you and your family can weather any storm that comes your way.
Storm damage should always be addressed quickly. Contact SERVPRO® day or night for the restoration services you need.
Dealing With Water Damage? Tackle It Quickly | SERVPRO of Buffalo/Tonawanda
5/1/2024 (Permalink)
Trust our team at SERVPRO of Buffalo/Tonawanda to provide comprehensive services for a full recovery for all your water damage restoration needs.
You’ve just had a busy day at work and are looking forward to coming home and relaxing on the couch. You open your front door and immediately step into a massive puddle of water. Oh, no, a water leak!
Water leaks are a really common home disaster that can impact you at any time. A busted pipe, faulty appliance or even a window left open during a surprise storm can cause serious water damage.
The key to a full recovery is to lean on restoration professionals! Our team will dry out your home right away so you can avoid mold issues and stinky residual odors.
Identifying the LeakWe all expect water to flow through our homes the way it should, but that’s not always the case. The second that water overflows a sink, pours out of a dishwasher or leaks down a windowpane, it can start to cause problems. It will leak and seep down walls, get under your floorboards, and even infiltrate the ceiling on the level beneath you.
As you get to work soaking up the water with a mop or a towel, the fact of the matter is that you already have water in really hard-to-reach areas. The water that is now inside your walls and under your floors doesn’t have adequate ventilation, so it will become stagnant and can’t dry out properly.
Over time, this lingering moisture will start to impact your home in a variety of ways. Metal will rust, beams will swell and mold can even set in only 24–48 hours after the initial disaster.
Tracking Down Any OdorsSo, you got the original mess cleaned up and your floor or wall is dry to the touch. While you go about your week, keep a close eye on how your home smells. Mold and mildew tend to give off a musty or an earthy odor, which is a pretty identifiable smell. If you start to notice this odor a few days after your water leak, it’s time to call in the pros.
We will work quickly to identify exactly where the smell is coming from, even if it is coming from a tricky area. Once we have secured the location, we will turn off vents and your HVAC system so we can filter the air without introducing the spores to another part of your home. After that, we will clean and sanitize the space to ensure your home is clean, fresh and safe once more.
Don’t ignore signs of a water leak. Contact SERVPRO® for a full recovery.
Navigating Insurance Claims With Confidence | SERVPRO of Buffalo/Tonawanda
4/15/2024 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Buffalo/Tonawanda is Here to Help® with your business' disaster recovery!
Disaster situations are often overwhelming, sending you and your family into a frenzy as you focus on staying safe during the event. After the event, it can be hard to come to terms with the current situation as you look at all of the destruction left behind.
While you work on sorting out everything that has happened, you will eventually come to the realization that you will need to get started on notifying your insurance company. That in and of itself can be another overwhelming reality!
The good news is that we are here to help pick up the pieces after a fire, flood or storm, and that includes helping you navigate the world of insurance claims.
Initial StepsNo matter what kind of disaster you are faced with, it is important that you start the recovery process quickly. The longer you wait, the worse your situation can become, and it can lead to more serious issues like structural problems, mold and rot.
Once the disaster event is over or the storm has passed, focus first on checking on your family and neighbors to assure that emergency services are not needed. Once everyone is safe and accounted for, it’s time to get us on the phone. We will prioritize putting together a team while we chat with you about your current situation.
We will encourage you to take photos of the damage that you see, as these fresh images will help your insurance company understand the scale of the disaster more thoroughly. If there is anything simple that you can do to stop the problem from getting worse, like turning off water lines or shutting off electricity, we will also encourage you to do these tasks while you wait for us to arrive.
Leaving It to UsOur first priority when we arrive is to secure your home against further damage. We can tie down roofs, secure tarps and cover windows to keep out the elements, and then we will take a look at everything that you have already documented so we can start the insurance claim process. Our team is highly trained, not just in repairing home damage, but also in the insurance world. We will make sure your claim is successful and expedited.
Our team will work hard to put together a comprehensive list of your losses, and we will include your images along with our own professional shots of the damage before we submit everything to your insurance company. We are also trained to meet insurance inspection standards to help lower your overall cost. As always, our goal is to restore rather than replace your possessions, which will help lower your replacement cost as well.
When you lean on SERVPRO of Buffalo/Tonawanda, good things will happen. We will put your home back together while also helping you navigate the more complicated parts of your recovery, including your insurance claim.
When a disaster strikes, call us to make your recovery process—insurance claims and all—simple.
The Basic Steps to Prevent Flood Damage | SERVPRO of Buffalo/Tonawanda
4/1/2024 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Buffalo/Tonawanda is ready to help in a moments notice after spring showers leak in to your home or business.
When faced with a tricky task, how do you approach it? Do you jump all in right away without knowing all the details, or do you break down the problem and bring it back to the basics of what you know?
We would bet that you are usually more successful when you break it down and work with what you know. This approach works in many different scenarios, including when it comes to preventing home damage.
For example, small preventive steps that you take now can have a big impact on preventing flooding issues during the rainy season! Incorporate the basic tasks below into your week to help you prepare for the season ahead.
Understanding FloodsFlooding can happen when severe weather comes to town, but that is not the only way that your home can experience water damage. Busted water lines, faulty appliances and even the rare instances of broken dams or levees can cause serious water issues in a short amount of time.
We are surrounded by water, thanks to Lake Erie, and we experience some pretty intense storms due to the lake effect. That alone can increase the risk for flooding in our community at any given time. Do you know your own property’s flood risk?
Whether your home is in a designated flood zone or not, you should still be taking steps to reduce your risk even further. Adding extra drainage to your property or lengthening your downspouts are two easy tasks to make sure any rain that does fall has a more productive place to go.
If you live in a neighborhood with a lot of tree coverage, it is crucial that you address any gutter issues immediately. Clear out clogs or blockages as soon as you notice them, or better yet, install gutter covers to keep out leaves and other yard debris.
Additional Preparation MethodsWhile understanding our community’s flood risk is important, we can’t always prevent flooding issues from happening. The good news is that you can learn a lot about your property when it does flood so you can make some permanent changes.
If your basement gets wet regularly when it rains, you can address any drainage issues or even have your property professionally graded to help move the water down and away from your foundation.
If you struggle with water leaks around troublesome windows, you can have them sealed or replaced to help keep the moisture outside where it belongs. Finally, if you notice that your sump pump isn’t turning on when it should, you can address this issue quickly to make sure it is working when you really need it most.
When you start at the beginning, you can set your home up for long-term success. We are always here to help if your property suffers from any sort of water damage this season and beyond.
Do you have water damage in your home? Contact us at SERVPRO® for fast recovery.
Tackling the Stinky Situations: The Realities of Sewage Leaks | SERVPRO of Buffalo/Tonawanda
3/15/2024 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Buffalo/Tonawanda is always ready to respond to your call when biohazard incidents strike.
The phrase “what’s that smell?” is something that no homeowner or business owner wants to utter as they enter their home or building. Property disasters come in all shapes and sizes, but they also come with varying levels of grossness. We would agree that suffering from a sewage leak is one of the grossest disasters to experience!
Unfortunately, sewage leaks and backups happen all the time. If you become the unfortunate victim of a sewage disaster, quick action is necessary to control the situation and prevent further issues from developing.
The Leak DiscoverySewage backups can happen whenever the pipe that the wastewater is moving through becomes clogged or blocked. Over time, the sewage will have to go somewhere, and it will eventually travel backward into your toilet, sinks or even bathtub. Sewage leaks can occur if a water line or pipe breaks or becomes compromised, leaving the sewage to leak or drip out of the hole.
No matter the situation, we recommend that you not touch the water. Water is categorized into white water, gray water and black water. Sewage falls into the category of black water because it is toxic and should never be handled without the proper safety gear. Even a small amount of sewage can harbor thousands of viruses, bacteria and microbes that can be dangerous or even deadly.
Stay out of the water, and focus on finding the appropriate water shutoff valve. Once the pipe has stopped leaking or the situation is under control, start opening up windows and turning on fans to let the stink out and to let the fumes dissipate. Close off the area to your family or customers and then get us on the phone right away.
How We Can HelpWe are well-known for our highly rated restoration services, but we are also well-equipped to handle any biohazard cleaning situation! We have the proper tools and training to tackle your entire disaster with ease and precision. Once you call us, we will be able to load up our trucks with the right equipment and then we will be on our way to you.
In the meantime, pull out your phone and start taking some photos of the destruction. While you may not be framing these photos any time soon, your insurance company will want to see them while they work on processing your claim.
Once we arrive, we will prioritize securing your space by identifying and fixing the source of the leak. Since sewage water is toxic, we will ensure that the area is only occupied by team members that are highly trained and dressed safely.
Some of our technicians will be focused on fixing the problem, and others will focus on removing the sewage and standing water. We will also employ our deodorizers to remove any lingering stinky smells.
If the sewage caused any structural damage to your home or building, we can also repair and restore any warped floors or soggy walls for you so that your home is returned to its pre-disaster state.
Sewage leaks should always be cleaned up by professionals. Call SERVPRO®, and we will take care of you.
Staying Connected to Stay Safe: Weather Alerts | SERVPRO of Buffalo/Tonawanda
3/1/2024 (Permalink)
Let SERVPRO of Buffalo Tonawanda help you get from April showers to May flowers.
We can’t believe that we are already talking about and preparing for the spring season! Rumbling thunderstorms, heavy rain and the occasional severe weather situation are all on the horizon, so preparing for them ahead of time is crucial.
One of the most important ways to be prepared is to be informed! Updating your alert systems now can ensure you know what is going on so you can take action to stay safe and in control.
Staying Connected With PowerWe are surrounded by screens in almost every aspect of our lives, so it should be no surprise that our phones and TVs are the most common way of receiving weather alerts. Wireless Emergency Alerts are alerts that can be issued automatically if there is a weather system quickly approaching, but you can (and should) have at least one other weather app downloaded.
Keep in mind that not all weather apps are created equally and that it is important for you to choose wisely. Avoid the apps that exaggerate forecasts for likes or engagement and stick with the nationally recognized or locally trusted sources instead.
News stations and local weather channels are also great resources as they are often live broadcasting when severe weather is in the area. You can watch the storm progress in real-time and be able to take action immediately if a warning is issued or if the storm changes course unexpectedly.
Staying Connected Without PowerWe all know how dangerous it can be to lose power during a storm, which is why we recommend that every household has at least one other alert system in place that doesn’t require power in order to work. Phones, TVs and your computer are great ways to stay connected, but only if they are powered and working.
Don’t leave yourself vulnerable in the face of serious weather! Locate our local weather sirens and familiarize yourself with the different tones and alerts, or invest in a NOAA weather radio.
Weather radios are especially helpful because they are portable. You can take them with you into your sheltering location or around your property in the aftermath of the first wave of a storm.
Stay prepared, everyone! If you know what to expect, you will be armed with the knowledge you need to keep your family safe during a true weather emergency. Call us day or night after the storm passes and we will take care of any storm damage that you have suffered.
Serious storms can cause serious property damage. Call SERVPRO® 24⁄7 for immediate restoration assistance.
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