Flooding Damage Restoration Steps

6/28/2022 (Permalink)

When it comes to handling the aftermath of a flood in Lynnwood, WA one of the first questions on your mind may be how to take care of all the contents in your building. Content cleaning can be an important part of the restoration process. There are some important things to keep in mind when deciding how to handle water damage.

Identify the Extent of the Damage

Before you face the task of cleaning up after flooding, you should identify how far the damage has spread. Flood water may be classified as black water, which can be dangerously contaminated. You should figure out what has gotten wet, so you know exactly where you should focus before you begin. A flood damage restoration company such as SERVPRO of Lynnwood can help you decide exactly what needs to be done to ensure that content cleaning and structural cleaning is done where needed.

Throw Porous Materials Away

Porous materials may absorb contaminated water during flooding, leading to problems with mold or other issues later on. Items that are considered porous may include wood, carpets, cushions, and other objects or materials that water can soak in to. It can be best to dispose of these items as they may not be salvageable and can be unsafe.

Restore Non-Porous Materials

SERVPRO of Lynnwood water damage restoration specialists can help you restore items that are salvageable. Restoration can include disinfecting non-porous materials, so they are suitable for use again. It may also involve evaluating electrical appliances and other equipment to determine if they are still suitable for use.

Get your building back to a functioning state as soon as possible by taking care of damaged contents. We can be helpful in the content cleaning process by evaluating damage and determining how to salvage and sort through items. While some things may have to be thrown away, others can be saved through water restoration processes. Call the professionals at SERVPRO of Lynnwood if you need help with flood damage at 425-774-1148. 

Why Does Mold Grow?

6/28/2022 (Permalink)

Many homeowners worry about mold growing in their house and causing damage or lowering the value, even worse putting residents at risk. Mold is a very specific problem with predictable causes, so it is unlikely to affect any home that does not have a moisture problem. Learn the truth about mold growth, different types, and the causes. If you find mold in Lynnwood, WA be sure to call a restoration specialist from SERVPRO of Lynnwood for expert advice and remediation.

What is Mold?

Mold is essentially a type of fungus that grows in wood or other porous materials commonly found in buildings. Mold spores can be found everywhere, and the only thing mold needs to grow is excessive moisture. There are multiple types of molds and without proper remediation it can spread. It is important to understand and be on the lookout for it, especially during the rainy months in the Pacific Northwest.

Preventing Mold Growth

Because mold requires moisture to grow, the best way to prevent it is to control water and humidity in your home. The most common causes of mold growth are broken or leaking pipes, broken water supply, leaking roofs, humid weather, or flooding.

Make sure your roof is not leaking and that your gutters or spouts direct water away effectively. Check your basement, crawl space, and attic occasionally to find signs of moisture or the early stages of mold. Always be aware of any moisture that develops on your walls, floors, or ceiling.

Visit http://www.SERVPROlynnwood.com for more information about the services we provide.

What is a Foundation Leak?

6/22/2022 (Permalink)

Foundation leaks are very serious to the overall health of your home and undiagnosed can lead to worse issues. There are certain steps you can take to minimize damage, but first let’s understand what a foundation leak is;

A foundation is a single concrete base also known as a slab which your home sits on.

 A slab leak is a term used to describe a leak that has developed in the copper water lines running below the concrete foundation of your home.

Why Does It Leak?

• Corrosion: your pipes are underground, therefore weather changes and influences from soil can cause your pipes to corrode over time
• Installment issues: it's possible that when your house was built there were mistakes or damage that did not create an ideal foundation – this can also be known as a construction defect
• Wear and Tear: pipes expand and contract with the weather and if a pipe freezes it can burst from the pressure. The pipes must also have room to contact and expand so if there is anything that it could come in contact with like concrete or gravel the pipes may rub against them and cause damage.

What Are the Signs?

• The floor has hot spots
• High water bill
• Wet floor or carpet
• Low water pressure
• Standing Water
• Visible mold growth or a musty smell

What Should You Do?

You should always call for professional help with a leak. Sometimes you may need a plumber or leak detection specialist to assess where the issue is coming from. SERVPRO of Lynnwood can provide water mitigation services to address standing water or mold. It is important to get to the root of the problem by hiring a foundation contractor who can stop the leak so further damage doesn’t occur.

How to Prepare For A Fire Systems Inspection

6/22/2022 (Permalink)

Fire marshal inspections are a guaranteed part of running a business whether you manage a restaurant or an office. The more time and energy you invest into preparing for the visit, the less time and resources you will be required to put forward into fixing issues later on.

 Clear A Path

Start by clearing hallways and pathways. There should always be a clear path to exit doors and windows. These paths must be at least 36 inches wide and clearly marked and illuminated. Always make sure that exit doors are clear, marked and that they are easily opened from the inside of the building.

Check Suppression Systems

Fire suppression is critical in buying your business time for first responders to arrive in an emergency. This means you will need to verify that all extinguishers and fire suppression systems are properly charged and functional. In addition, these should be clear of debris and properly serviced by a trained professional.

If your building has fire sprinklers confirm sufficient clearance around sprinkler heads and that inventory isn’t blocking the system. NFPA (National Fire Protection Agency) requires maintaining at least 18 inches of clearance to be compliant.

Check Electrical Systems

Confirm that sockets and breakers are not overloaded. Ensure breaker boxes and electrical panels are free of obstructions and easily accessible. If you have any electrical issues, be sure a qualified electrician promptly and properly addresses these.

Inspect Control Panels

Make sure your fire alarm panels are fully operational. These must be professionally inspected and serviced annually to comply with fire codes. You should also review inspection tags and documentation that confirms the tests and services were performed.

Ultimately remember to always hire a professional! 

Common Appliances That Cause Water Damage

6/16/2022 (Permalink)

Certain appliances or systems in your home or business can actually increase your risk of flooding. Listed below are the top five sources of water damage culprits that you should be aware of.

Hot Water Heater

Among the top five sources leading to water damage is your hot water heater. A small investment in an annual inspection will help prevent leaks and the expensive repairs that come with it. Be attentive to corrosion and other factors as your heater ages and replace it every 10 years. Keep in mind that after 12 years 75% of water heaters will fail. Flushing the tank every 6 months to remove sediment is a good maintenance practice.

Air Conditioner

Installing a drainpipe will remove the overflowing water and direct it outside or to a household sewer; this is an alternative to using a drain pan, which will only help contain a small amount in the event of a leak. Attic air conditioners typically cause the most damage because water can leak throughout the entire home affecting multiple rooms from top down. Be aware that the average cost of flooding damage from an air conditioning leak is roughly $5,000.

Washing Machine

Leaks around or clamps in the water hose are a warning sign of future failure. Do a monthly personal inspection on your hoses to look out for cracking, dryness or rust, leaving space between the machine and the wall for movement as the wash cycle is running. Replace your hoses every five years despite their outward appearance. Don’t forget to follow your washing machine instructions and turn off water supply when you leave home for extended periods. Unfortunately 78 percent of hose failures occur in an appliance that is less than 11 years old.

Refrigerator

The most common cause of a leaky refrigerator is the defrost drain experiencing a freeze or clog. Improper sealing can cause excess condensation. Check the rubber seals along the door to assure a tight close. Inspect you ice maker by checking the hose or waterline to assure they are connected properly.

Dishwasher

Hoses, valves or switches are the plumbing connections and can all malfunction to cause water damage issues. Refrain from adding too much detergent to each cycle and if your dishwater is more than 9 years old it may be time for a replacement.

If you suffer water damage from any of these common household appliances do not hesitate to call SERVPRO of Lynwood at 425-774-1148 for emergency services. We are available 24/7 365 days a year.

How to Proceed with Suspected Mold Growth

6/16/2022 (Permalink)

Musty smell? Discolored drywall? Do you suspect you could have mold? Knowing the warning signs that can indicate microbial growth — like high humidity or neglected water damage — and determining the cause of contamination in your building can be understandably difficult. If you have questions about how to remedy this issue here is some basic information about effects of mold, which is oftentimes a gray area for many.

Mold and mold spores are ever-present entities. Mold spores are anywhere you go, whether you’re indoors or outdoors, and typically they’re not harmful but simply part of our atmosphere. The real issue comes when the mold finds perfect breeding grounds in high-moisture areas and begins to quickly grow out of control.

If you fear mold growth is present in your building or home, close off the area, turn the HVAC system off and call for professional help. Since mold spores are airborne, they can be spread through the airflow coming from your HVAC system. If you’re worried that one area of your property might be contaminated, turning off the building’s airflow keeps spores from spreading outward to other rooms or levels. This quick action also benefits a mold remediation team when they arrive to contain and clean up the mess.

Never let water issues go untreated. Mold development is triggered by moisture, so neglecting any water maintenance problems such as leaky pipes, poorly insulated windows or flood damage can lead to trouble. Contacting restoration specialists is the best move for finding the true source of water leaks and stopping further damage.

Once you acknowledge these common facts about mold, you’ll be more readily prepared to spot any potential warning signs in your building or home. Knowing that you should treat water damage or high humidity immediately makes preventing mold growth a far easier concept.

If you are concerned about air quality we can connect you to an Industrial Hygienist who specialize in mold testing. SERVPRO of Lynnwood works hand in hand with industrial hygienists to perform mold cleanings based off their written scopes and recommendations. Call our team at 425-774-1148 if you have any questions.

NARPM Continuing Education Class August 2022

6/14/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Lynnwood has been a long time supporter of King County NARPM, Snohomish County NARPM and now the Washington State Chapter of NARPM. Not only do we enjoy participating as an affiliate we love to host CE classes for our professional members. The next CE class initiated by King County NARPM will be for August 23^rd and will take place in our Lynnwood classroom. Lunch will be provided and this will count for 3 real estate clock hours. Check out our King County NARPM website for more information: Here.

We encourage all property managers and real estate professionals to join for the class! SERVPRO will provide a complimentary lunch and there will be fun raffle prize giveaways as well.

Spots are filling up so we urge you to register sooner than later! RSVP by contacting our chapter leader Lawton at The Joseph Group, Lawton.coursey@thejosephgroup.com.

SERVPRO Teams Unite for SERVPRO’s Annual Convention

6/14/2022 (Permalink)

Every year SERVPRO franchise owners and select team members from around the United States meet for SERVPRO Convention hosted in a different city each year. Our Corporate team from Gallatin, TN plans and executes the Convention to be a motivational, thought-provoking experience. This week long endeavor entails a variety of workshops, leadership and management training, networking and inspirational speakers, complete with a tradeshow featuring products and equipment from all of our national vendors.

This event is a wonderful opportunity for owners and their leaders to hear about the latest and greatest in our industry. It sparks new implementation and helps franchises plan for future growth. We recognize franchises who have exceeded performance goals complete with an awards ceremony. Workshops cover topics from Marketing to Human Resources to Production and are available for virtual attendance as well!

SERVPRO convention 2022 will take place in Dallas, TX and a golf tournament will be held to raise profits for the First Responder Children’s Foundation. Our team at SERVPRO of Lynnwood has attended convention every year since our doors opened in 2008 and we always look forward to embracing what we learn and applying it to our everyday operations. We are proud to be a part of the SERVPRO brand!

How To Maximize Your Home Inspection in Lynnwood, WA

6/7/2022 (Permalink)

Are you a buyer or seller interested in getting a home inspection? A home inspection is always a great idea so you can be in tune with any potential issues that may need to be addressed. Pest control? Drainage Issues? Roof or plumbing problems? We recommend maximizing your inspection by following these steps:

Get A Recommendation. Your real estate professional should be able to recommend a reliable and highly rated inspection company. Make sure your agent knows that you don’t want to cut corners. The cheapest option may not always be the best option.

Be Present for the Inspection. The inspector will most likely want to point some things out to you and explain any notes he or she is making on the report. This is an important step, but it’s only possible if you’re present and engaged for the inspection. Don’t hesitate to ask questions. It is important you understand the functions of the systems in your home and the overall health of the property.

Ask Questions: Ask as many questions as you want, and make sure you feel comfortable with the answers. After all, a house is the biggest investment most people will ever make in their lives and it is important to understand what problems may need to be addressed.

Bring in Additional Specialty Professionals if Needed: If your inspector does not look at the plumbing system or does not offer something specific like mold testing, feel free to bring in a third-party specialist. There is nothing wrong with having someone else come in to look at a specific portion of the home, especially if they are an expert in their field. SERVPRO of Lynnwood is here to provide a professional scope for water, mold or deodorization remediation that may be needed in the home. Call the professionals at 425-774-1148. 

Preparing Your Business for a Weather Emergency

6/2/2022 (Permalink)

Many businesses today will have an action plan and checklist in place for their employees should a natural disaster or emergency strike. What steps have you taken to ensure a proper plan for your team? SERVPRO of Lynnwood is well versed in disaster preparedness and is willing to come speak to your local business about emergency preparedness free of charge. Call us at 425-774-1148 to learn more about getting prepared.

Preventative care is very important and can save you thousands in the long run. You may know that you’re at risk for a wildfire or a tornado or a flood, but you’ll never know when an extreme weather event will hit. Even with some advance warning of a super storm, you won’t know the true intensity until you’re in the thick of it. And an event does not have to be of Katrina or Sandy-sized proportion to have a devastating impact on your business. A long-term local power outage could shut your doors for days. Consider a comprehensive emergency plan that includes worst-case contingencies.

As you design your plan, here are some key considerations:

• Protect your employees 
  Saving lives always comes before saving property. Design safe evacuation procedures and designate offsite meeting areas to make it easier to ascertain who is safe and who is missing. This is particularly important in larger buildings and for businesses operating potentially dangerous machinery or handling hazardous materials.
   
• Minimize potential damage to your physical property 
  Identify essential structures, products, equipment, inventory and utility services and install prevention and safety systems to protect them. For example, surge protectors and uninterrupted power supplies can prevent damage to electronic equipment. Storm shutters can protect windows and prevent debris from entering your buildings. Secured tarps can minimize water damage to inventory stored outside.
   
• Secure records and data 
  If your business relies heavily on the bits and bytes on your computers, you need backup plans with multiple redundancies. Use software to automatically run scheduled backups to external local hard drives and also regularly backup to remote servers using a cloud-based service. Scan important documents and include them in your digital backups. Keep originals in a safe approved by Underwriters Laboratories or at a secure offsite location. Maintaining current photo and video records of your business assets can make it easier to itemize losses that may help speed up insurance assessments.
   
• Operate from remote locations 
  Create a business continuity plan that spells out how you will continue to serve your customers and clients if your primary facilities are damaged. Identify different locations outside your immediate area where you can at least conduct some of the administrative and strategic planning parts of your business. Your emergency plan may also include setting aside “rainy day” funds to help in recovery efforts.
   
• Communicate with your workforce and customers 
  In a disaster, if you don’t know what’s going on, the stress level goes way up. It’s important to have several ways to communicate internally and externally. Weather disasters often knock out electrical power, phone and cable lines, even cell towers. For backup electrical power, consider gas generators. If phone lines are down and cell systems are overloaded, making voice calls difficult, text messages often can get through because they require so little bandwidth. Mass texting apps can broadcast alert messages to large groups from a single triggering phone call or text message. Keep your customers up to date on your status with emails, texts, and social media posts.
   
• Apply for assistance from state and federal agencies 
  The Federal Emergency Management Agency – FEMA – is the main federal resource for providing relief and assistance to individuals and businesses during and after a disaster. Keep the FEMA contact points in your emergency kit and on your phone. The U.S. Small Business Administration also offers disaster assistance in the form of low interest loans. Check with your tax professional to see if you can deduct certain disaster-related losses.

The Do's and Don'ts of Fire Damage Cleaning

6/2/2022 (Permalink)

Coping with the results of a fire can be overwhelming and emotionally draining. SERVPRO of Lynnwood understands the stress and worry that comes with property damage. In the unfortunate event of a fire happening in your home or business there are many safety measures to consider. Check out our following tips and tricks to staying safe and protecting yourself and your household items. Always remember to call in the professionals at SERVPRO of Lynnwood for assistance; 425-774-1148.

What to Do:

• Limit movement in the structure, this will prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpets, saving them making them not need to be replaced.
• Keep your hands clean so you do not to further soil upholstery, walls and wood.
• Place clean towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas.
• If electricity has been turned off, empty freezer and refrigerator and prop doors open.
• Clean and protect chrome with light coating of petroleum jelly or oil.
• Wash houseplants on both sides of leaves removing all soot, tar, or other particles.
• Turn off HVAC system, then upon cleaning change HVAC filters making sure you have clean air circulating throughout your home.
• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers.

What Not to Do:

• Do not attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces or shampoo carpet or upholstery without contacting your SERVPRO Franchise Professional.
• Do not attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire, heat or water without consulting an authorized repair service.
• Do not use any canned or packaged food or beverages that may have been stored near the fire, heat or water. They could have become rotten from the heat exposure.
• Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet or damaged from the fire. The wiring may be damaged.
• Do not send garments to an ordinary dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set smoke odor. Use professionals trained to clean these materials.

SERVPRO of Lynnwood Hosts Effective Safety Meetings

6/2/2022 (Permalink)

OSHA requires that every employer make safety and health a top priority and ensure a safe working environment. OSHA's job is to provide leadership and encouragement to employers to take that responsibility seriously and provide educational or awareness opportunities to employees so they know of their rights to a safe workplace. It is important that every employee receive proper and adequate training to ensure they are able to safely and competently perform their jobs. This also applies to temporary, part-time and contract employees. Regular safety meetings should be documented and attendance should be recorded. 

Employers have a duty to protect workers from injury and illness on the job by developing and implementing a safety and health program. According to OSHA, there are five components that every effective safety program should have.

• Management Leadership and Employee Participation
• Workplace Analysis
• Hazard Prevention and Control
• Safety and Health Training and Education
• Program Evaluation

In high risk industries like construction and restoration repeat safety discussions can have a positive impact on good habits that start in the office and are carried out on each and every jobsite. At SERVPRO of Lynnwood we hold weekly safety meetings for our team to make sure they are following the best protocols while servicing commercial and residential customers. To have a successful safety meeting we always follow these steps;

• Let your employees, crews, and teams know that you will be holding a safety meeting or starting a safety meeting program.
• Decide on the theme, subject, or topic of the safety meeting.
• Prepare for the safety meeting- use demonstration, photos and props
• Send out a reminder of the safety meeting the day before the meeting is scheduled to be held.
• Present the information clearly, with expectations and save time for questions

 Several common safety topics that we reiterate are;

• Respiratory Protection and proper PPE
• Distracted Driving
• Handling Power Tools Safely
• Temperature Extremes
• Working in Confined spaces and on Ladders
• Asbestos and Lead Protocols
• Proper hazard reporting and handling

SERVPRO has Accomplished 2,000 franchises opened in the U.S. and Canada

6/1/2022 (Permalink)

It is with much pride that SERVPRO announces we have officially opened 2,000 franchises as of May 2022. Our founder Ted Isaacson was a true example of an entrepreneur. He spent his life recruiting professionals and creating a vision for our SERVPRO brand with the idea of “Helping Entrepreneurs Succeed”. Throughout the years the focus has been on developing a team of quality people, always re-iterating quality over quantity. Here at SERVPRO of Lynnwood we live by that ideal as well. Customers are treated with respect and care as we are privileged to be chosen as their service provider. Working in people’s homes and businesses is a responsibility we do not take lightly; therefore our staff members are trained to be the best and brightest in the industry.

SERVPRO as a united brand is thrilled to reach the 2,000^th franchise milestone as we see the dreams of our founders coming true; teams of quality people nationwide responding to disasters and helping in time of need. A vision that has helped Franchise owners stay successful is a commitment to “to be the premier cleaning and restoration company in the world”. Here at SERVPRO of Lynnwood we invest in our employees long-term, we want them to feel this a career path, not just a ‘job’. Allowing everyone to participate in this shared vision fosters people who truly care for their career and our customers.

Cheers to 2,000 franchises and all the hard work that has been accomplished!

SERVPRO Supports First Responders Nationally and Locally

6/1/2022 (Permalink)

First responders make an extraordinary sacrifice and risk their lives every day. We are honored to support them as the first line of help for people in crisis. Let’s make it a priority to celebrate them for the difficult and stressful work they do each day!

SERVPRO of Lynnwood is proud to be a local supporter of first responding agencies as we realize the value and importance they bring to our communities. We have shown our support over the years by participating in first responder community events, bringing snacks or donations to teams on call and sponsoring annual golf tournaments. We are so glad to have just signed up for another year with the Edmonds Police Foundation Tournament and encourage others in the community to join!

On a national level SERVPRO is a sponsor of the First Responder Bowl which is an annual college bowl game held in Dallas, Texas. The game celebrates individuals who are everyday heroes with specialized training, as they put their lives on the line to serve their neighbors and communities across the nation when disaster strikes. A local first responder will be submitted, voted on and considered for special recognition at this year’s game. Tune in on Tuesday December 27^th to watch and support first responders including police officers, firefighters, EMS workers, correctional officers, search and rescue, dispatchers, security guards, federal agents, border patrol agents, and military personnel.

To all the first responders, thank you for your service, its our turn to honor you!

What Steps to Take After A Storm

7/14/2021 (Permalink)

You have experienced a Storm - What Now?

Whether it's a hurricane, ice damming or hailstorm nature can be unpredictable. Frozen pipes, flood water, roof damage - anything can go wrong during a storm.

Where does the clean-up process start? Call the professionals at SERVPRO of Lynnwood.. A professional will be able to assess roof damage and structural problems with expert knowledge and come up with a plan of action.

In colder climates there are the winter hazards of blizzards, extreme snowfall, ice damming, etc. Ice damage can come in many forms - roofs collapse, pipes burst and power lines fall. An ice dam can cause major damage by blocking water from running off of the roof. Wind damage sometimes accompanies a severe blizzard. Trees topple over, vinyl siding is blown off and telephone lines are blown down. In the cold weather zones be prepared for the possibility of Ice dams, frozen pipes, hail damage ice damage and wind damage.

SERVPRO professionals address the following:

Flooding, river flooding, storm damage, wind damage, roof repair, or temporary tarping roof leaks

Depending on geographic locations, some people may have hurricane damage or flooding in their areas. As water levels rise and storm surges swell, homes can sustain devastating blows. Ground water can become contaminated with bacteria and pests. River flooding can soak basements and ground-level rooms with sediment and contaminated water; each disaster brings it's own set of problems. Storm restoration is a process and water restoration after storm damage can be tricky. Immediately after the storm call for help and consider have a plumbing and roofing specialist reference as well.

Call the water & storm restoration specialist: SERVPRO of Lynnwood- 425-774-1148

Visit http://www.SERVPROlynnwood.com for more information on storm damage.

Are you Looking for A Career With SERVPRO?

7/14/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Lynnwood is hiring for Restoration Technicians! If you enjoy helping people and working in fast-paced environments this may be the job for you! Call our office at 425-774-1148 to schedule your interview! We provide training and great internal advancement opportunities. 

We offer Competitive Hourly Rates, Overtime and Benefits!

SERVPRO® is a national leading company in the Cleaning and Restoration Industry. Our expanding team is looking to hire professionals with an opportunity for advancement. No experience is necessary- we will train and offer a competitive hourly rate plus benefits. Our technicians work on jobsites to perform the following functions; 

• Setup and maintain restoration equipment.

• Stock supplies and equipment for jobsites

• Take and record moisture readings

• Clean and perform demolition as needed 

• Measure and sketch basic floor plans

• Pack and move contents and much more!

SERVPRO of Lynnwood Exhibits at the Washington Homicide Investigators Conference

7/14/2021 (Permalink)

We are thrilled to be exhibiting for our second time at the Washington Homicide Investigator's Annual Conference taking place Fall 2021 at the Clearwater Casino & Resort. This is the 8th annual conference which focuses on "Case Presentation Format". The conference will include numerous high profile homicide case presentations, presented by the actual investigators and prosecutors with a focus on “lessons learned”. Attendees will have the option to visit with vendors and discuss industry news and updates! We look forward to discussing process and procedure for professional bio-hazard clean-up after homicide related events.

We look forward to sharing, learning and networking at this exciting event! If you will be attending the conference stop by our booth to say hello! We are proud to support our first responders and investigators. 

New Fire Safety Technology

7/14/2021 (Permalink)

Faster, smarter technology means better fire safety technology. The basics of fire safety, from stocking the right equipment to knowing fire protocols, remain the same, but technological advances build on the basics, making fire fighting quicker, easier, and more effective. SERVPRO of Lynnwood takes pride in staying up to date with advances in the industry.

There are some amazing technologies being produced to fight fires; advances in video, sound and detection technology. Here are some of the new features;

Sound Wave Fire Extinguisher

This chemical-free, water-free extinguisher uses sound waves to separate burning fuel from oxygen. Fire dies out without oxygen, so using the soundwave extinguisher on a small fire is successful. The sound wave extinguisher provides non-destructive fire safety technology, which is ideal for home use. Currently the technology is only suitable for small fires since it does not contain a coolant.

Water Mist Systems

Water mist fire safety technology is considered a major part of the future of firefighting. Water simply works, and it’s the most common agent used to fight fires today.

Instead of large droplets of water, water mist systems send out a fine mist that smothers a fire. Since the droplets are smaller, the mist systems create more of them. The larger surface area of droplets converts water to steam faster. The steam absorbs more heat from the flame, lowering the temperature of the fire, suffocating the fire faster. Mist systems also significantly decrease water damage. 

Early Suppression Fast Response Fire Sprinkler Systems (ESFR)

ESFR systems are ceiling-mounted, featuring high-pressure heads capable of producing a high volume of water; nearly 100 gallons of water per minute. Unlike a conventional sprinkler system made to control a fire, ESFR fire safety technology suppresses the fire (shrinks it back to the point of origin). These systems require large amounts of water and are hooked up to fire pumps. They are found to be effective in large buildings such as warehouses.

Integrated Voice Evacuation and Messaging System

Not all fire safety technologies are built to fight fires: some protect the people a fire can hurt. An integrated voice evacuation and messaging system alerts occupants with pre-recorded messages when a fire breaks out. Fire evacuation plans and other safety information play over speakers so occupants can respond appropriately. This can be customized to the facility and will help keep people informed during an emergency.

Summer Safety Tips to Prevent Fires

7/13/2021 (Permalink)

Bright blue skies, cool pools, the scent of a freshly mowed lawn and barbecue…It’s definitely summertime! Kids are out of school and adults are getting ready to use some well-deserved vacation time. It’s a season synonymous with fun, freedom, and sunshine. Unfortunately, it is also a common time of year for emergency room visits and accidental fires.

July is the busiest time of year nationally for grill fires. It is also common for accidental house fires and injury due to the mishandling of fireworks.

There are plenty of things you can do to help protect your home and your family during the festivities. We want you to enjoy every minute of your summer. Follow some of these helpful tips to make sure your summer is both fun AND safe!

• Only use your propane and charcoal grills outdoors. Never bring them indoors.
• Keep your grill away from the exterior of your home. You don’t want it against railings, door frames, under eaves, or too near low hanging branches.
• Be vigilant in keeping children and pets away from the grill and its general vicinity.
• Never leave the grill unattended.
• Be clean- remove fat build up and grease from grills, trays, and accessories.
• Obey all local laws concerning firework usage.
• Fireworks and alcohol do not mix.
• Do NOT try to re-light a malfunctioning or “dud” firework.
• Keep a bucket of water nearby in case of fire or to fully extinguish the ones that have malfunctioned.
• Read all cautionary labels and instructions before lighting fireworks and always use them outside only.

Enjoy your summer! We are here to serve 24/7. Need Cleanup? -- Call SERVPRO Lynnwood at (425)-774-1148

How to Keep Your Pets Safe From Fire Risks

7/13/2021 (Permalink)

As a pet-friendly office at SERVPRO of Lynnwood our furry friends are near and dear to our hearts as a special part of the family. Sadly, approximately 500,000 pets are affected by house fires each year and many house fires are even caused by pets, especially when left home alone. Read over these tips to help prevent any accidental fire started by your pets and for keeping your pets safe in the event of a fire in your home. When creating your family’s emergency plan make sure you include your dog, cat, or other pets in your plan of action.

To Prevent Your Pets from Starting An Accidental Fire;

• Beware of candles and other open flames. Pets are curious creatures and may take interest in a flickering flame. If you do have any open flames in your home at any time, be sure to never leave them unattended and to keep an eye on your pets. If you're using a fireplace, consider getting a fireplace screen to protect pets when sleeping in front of the fire. Also make sure the fire is completely out before heading out or going to bed. Small sparks and coals can pass through a screen and ignite soft contents such as furniture or carpet.
• Secure wires and cords. Pets are often tempted to chew on loose wires and cords. Exposed wires can be a fire hazard, so consider securing any electrical objects so that their cords are out of reach. 
• Avoid using glass bowls for your pets' water. When filtered and heated through glass, the sun's rays can ignite the wood beneath the bowl and set a deck in flames. Try using a stainless steel or ceramic bowl instead.

Keep Your Pets Safe After/During A Fire:

• Place a pet fire sticker on the door or window of your home. In the event of a fire when you're away, having a pet sticker will help rescuers know how many pets to look for, saving valuable time and hopefully your furry friends.  
• Use monitored smoke detectors. Pets left home alone can't escape on their own. Monitored smoke detectors contact emergency responders when you're not home and add an extra layer of protection beyond that of battery-operated smoke alarms. 
• Keep pets near entrances when you're away from home. Keep collars (with ID tags) on your pets at all times and leave leashes by the entrance or somewhere easy to find in an emergency. This will help firefighters to find and rescue your pets when they arrive.
• Know where your pets' hiding’ spots are. It's important that you can find your pets quickly if there's a fire. Know where your pets like to sleep and especially where they like to go when they are scared or anxious (under the bed or hidden in a quiet corner of the house somewhere).
• Have an ERP (Emergency Ready Plan) in place and make sure everyone in the house knows what to do in the event of a fire. Know who will be in charge of getting your pets outside safely. Have someone in charge of leashes and pet carriers so that they can be safely secured once you're outside. In the event that you can't find your pet when exiting, leave doors and windows open on your way out and call to them so that they come out on their own.
• Practice fire drills with your pets. It is important to include your pets in the family fire drills. Practice finding them and getting out of the house. Also practice the "open access" scenario where you leave an exit open (preferably the one they're most comfortable with) and call to them to come out of the home. The more you practice, the more likely they are to come out in the event of an actual fire.
• Don’t forget pet food & water, even medication. Depending on how long you may be displaced after a fire it’s a great idea to have food, water and any necessary medications on hand so that your pet feels more comfortable and doesn’t suffer from hunger or dehydration.

Call SERVPRO of Lynnwood at 425-774-1148 to find out more about what you can do to prepare for the unexpected.

A Maintenance Checklist for Your Commercial Property

7/13/2021 (Permalink)

Remembering to upkeep general maintenance around your business can be difficult at times with how busy daily life can be. In the first week of every quarter we recommend you set aside about an hour to make sure everything is running properly and address anything that needs attention. This will help you be more prepared for the unexpected. Make sure if something needs attention you address it right away- it’s never too late to start a good habit!

• Check and possibly change batteries in smoke detectors and CO detectors
• Check and possibly change water filters under kitchen sink and in ice makers in fridge
• Change furnace filter and be aware of next maintenance due date
• Check fire extinguishers and replace if needed
• Check and test earthquake valve at the gas meter
• Check all outdoor faucets and cover if weather is cold
• Check water heater and be aware of next maintenance due date
• Check all faucets and drains for normal flow
• Check all major appliances to ensure no leaks are present; washing machine, dishwasher, garbage disposal
• Inspect crawl space and attic to ensure proper ventilation and that the space is free of pests
• Complete a walk-around and check siding, roof, walkways and general exterior
• Check outside lights and replace as needed

SERVPRO of Lynnwood hopes that this list will help you plan for a successful and emergency free year! Call us for more information about emergency preparedness; 425-774-1148.

Classes, Categories and Steps of Water Damage Restoration

7/13/2021 (Permalink)

Restoring a home or business after water damage comes in many different forms. It can be as simple as vacuuming up water and leaving the room to dry, or as severe as reconstructing an entire flooded home from a pipe break or supply line break.

Moisture creates the perfect atmosphere for bacteria to grow and breed. Certain materials are also at risk when there is water or flood damage and will have to be assessed by a restoration company (such as SERVPRO of Lynnwood) to determine if they must be replaced. Carpets and drywall often develop bacteria that, if not treated immediately, cannot be removed. For mitigation to be effective, determining what class and category of damage caused by water in a business or home is imperative. For a better overview of this, refer to the outline below:

Water Cleanup Classes: 

Class 1: Little moisture has been absorbed by part of a room. 

Class 2: An entire room has been affected and water has absorbed into the walls and carpet. This is often from a supply line break or pipe break.

Class 3: Water in a home or business completely saturated most of the area and walls and may be coming through the ceiling. This is considered flood damage. 

Class 4: Materials in a flooded home such as stone, concrete, and hardwood require specialty drying due to severe damage.

Water Cleanup Categories: 

Category 1: Damage has been caused by a clean water sources such as a broken pipe or a supply line break. For mitigation to be effective, immediate action is required to lessens the risk of further damage caused by water in a business or home. 

Category 2: Flood damage is caused by “grey water” containing contaminates such as detergents or urine from a pipe break or supply line break. 

Category 3: Completely unsanitary water, such as that found in sewers or rivers, has caused the damage in a flooded home, and a bacterium has begun growing. The Process of Restoration Restoring a home or business to livable conditions generally involves water removal, decontaminating the area, and drying. In more severe cases, entire parts of the building may need to be replaced. The process is delicate and should only be handled by a professional restoration company.

For more information on the steps involved, continue reading below: 

Step 1: Inspection – Getting a thorough inspection is the most important factor in mitigation with regards to water cleanup. Professionals will inspect the walls, floors, and ceiling and fit them into a class and category. This will be used to best determine a restoration plan. 

Step 2: Water Removal - Vacuums and pumps are used to remove water in a business or home, and the process must begin as soon as possible to prevent mold. 

Step 3: Drying – After all standing water is removed and absorbent materials are vacuumed, dehumidification and drying begins. This can take several weeks to complete.

Step 4: Cleaning – Personal items such as clothing and drapery need to be sanitized to prevent mold and bacteria growth from water in a home or business.

Step 5: Restoration – When there is severe damage from water in a business or home, materials such as walls, flooring, and broken pipes are replaced. When dealing with flood damage or general water damage it's always best to call a restoration company. They are specially equipped to handling water in a home or business and will be able to act fast to prevent further damage.

Visit http://www.SERVPROlynnwood.com for more information on water damage.

Proper Gutter Maintenance to Avoid Costly Damage

7/13/2021 (Permalink)

When it comes to protecting your home, there are many problems that can arise which we must consider. As seasons turn don’t wait too long to act; keep your gutters and downspouts clear as an important part of your preventative maintenance plan.

Gutter issues that can lead to water damage and roof or siding issues include:

1. Extra Weight
   Extra weight, caused by clogs, stresses fasteners that hold gutters to the house. Eventually, they detach, leaving space for water to get through; this leads to damaged soffits, shingles and paint.
2. Standing water
   Water and debris are the perfect breeding ground for insect and rodent infestations. If it’s been a while since you’ve seen the top of your gutters, clean them out and take proper safety precautions.
3. Shingle damage
   Cracks that form on damaged shingles can let in water, causing leaks insideyour home, leading to further problems in your attic and structure.
4. Wrong Sized Gutters/Spouts
   If you have overflow issues frequently, your gutter system may be improperly sized. Sometimes larger downspouts and clean-outs can prevent problems down the line.

The above are only a few reasons we all need to keep our gutters and downspouts clear. If you decide to do the work yourself, please be safe. Ladder safety is vitally important and shouldn’t be taken lightly. Most ladder injuries occur from 10 feet or less so if this work is daunting to you, hire a professional who is licensed and bonded to perform the job.

If you have a water intrusion issue due to clogged gutters call SERVPRO of Lynnwood for a moisture inspection and professional recommendation. You can reach our team at 425-774-1148.

Unexpected Flooding During Dry Seasons

7/13/2021 (Permalink)

If you live in Washington State you know the wet season is no time to take the weather lightly. Flooding can realistically happen any season. A common issue we see in summer is unexpected flooding and difficulty for the ground to absorb water. Flood damage can be one of the costliest disasters that may strike a home, putting possessions and building materials directly in harm’s way. Flooding can often be mitigated or entirely prevented through proper preparation. Reference these useful tips to help avoid storm damage even when you are not expecting it.

How Floods Occur

You may wonder why your house can shrug off some rains but not others, but the answer is often further from home. Heavy downpours can create a variety of treacherous situations:

• Too much rain or melting snow for the soil to absorb becomes excess runoff.
• Nearby bodies of water overflow from too much rainwater.
• Waterways can become blocked and containment systems like dams can fail.

Because these factors are outside the realm of individual control, it’s important to address those flooding risks you can impact around the home.

How To Prevent Damage

A major key to keeping your property safe is advance preparation. Many of these recommendations may even be part of your normal routine already:

• Don’t let storm drains on your street become clogged. Dispose of yard waste and ensure other debris does not collect, particularly ahead of expected rainfall.
• Keep your downspouts clear. Even a single storm can create blockages, allowing for water to back up and create flood risks from above.
• Address potential runoff issues. Cisterns and rain barrels allow for collection of excess rainwater around the home. Absorbent rain gardens and use of permeable paving materials can also lessen storm-related impact.

Most flood damage recovery professionals recommend a proactive approach versus reacting to an existing problem. Keep a sharp eye on potential threats all around your property, from gutters to drains. Preventing flooding in Lynnwood, WA does take effort but will be worthwhile in the long run.
Visit http://www.SERVPROlynnwood.com for more information on storm damage.

Causes of Mold Damage

7/13/2021 (Permalink)

Mold spores are microscopic organisms that can enter your home many different ways. Mold can enter your home by being carried in by a human or pet, or your home could be exposed to moisture (storms, plumbing leaks, rainwater, flooding) and humidity. Mold thrives on moisture and can rapidly spread when exposed to wetness. Mold produces a strong musty odor that can help bring attention to the problem or the source of the problem. If the mold problem is not treated quickly then it could cause health effects to both pets and humans. When you suspect mold or have found mold, call professionals immediately. Remediation cannot begin until the source of the water/moisture has been found and stopped. Even if no source of water is found, it is most likely the humidity in the air, if humidity is above 45% then it will allow mold to continue to grow.

You can control your mold several different ways. One of the most effective ways is to control humidity levels. If your humidity levels are high, then you might want to invest in a dehumidifier and place it in a very humid room you suspect mold might be able to grow in. Another method is to fix water leaks around your home. Mold thrives on moisture and any water in your house has the possibility of growing mold. Make sure that your shower, laundry, and cooking rooms have ventilation so there is no steam being left around. Finally, if there is a flood, make sure that your home is thoroughly cleaned and no longer wet by calling in the professionals at SERVPRO of Lynnwood.

When you see or find mold make sure to stay away from the affected areas, turn off HVAC system and air movement devices, then contact SERVPRO of Lynnwood. Some helpful tips on dealing with mold on your own is

1. Not to touch or disturb the mold.

2. Don’t blow air across any affected surfaces with possible, confirmed mold growth.

3. Do not attempt to dry the area yourself.

4. Do not spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.

Leave the mold to the professionals at SERVPRO of Lynnwood; 425-774-1148.

SERVPRO Tips For Keeping Your Home Cool

6/29/2021 (Permalink)

It sure has been a hot summer in Lynnwood, WA with record highs throughout the Pacific Northwest! Our team has some great tips to help keep your house cool: 

• Keep interior doors closed to help concentrate cool air in your living space.

• Use light blocking window coverings on windows that get morning and later afternoon sun. Even blankets and sheets will help.

• Keep lights turned off when you're not in the room. This helps keep the room cooler and reduces stress on the power grid.

• Use battery operated fans if possible.

• Avoid cooking indoors with sources of heat. 

• Seal up any drafts around windows and doors.

• Keep windows closed during the day.

• Only open windows in the evening when it cools and to create a cross breeze.

If you develop water damage issues from a leaking AC unit don't hesitate to call SERVPRO of Lynnwood at 425-774-1148, we are always available to help!

Avoid Overheating In Record Heatwave Temperatures

6/29/2021 (Permalink)

The Pacific Northwest has been issued an excessive heat warning due to record breaking temperatures. According to the National weather service Seattle, WA broke a record for the highest temperature ever recoded in the area at 108 degrees. To keep yourself cool following this list of tips: 

• Drink plenty of water. Have extra bottled water and a cooler of ice on hand in case of emergency. 

• Take cool showers or baths

• Place a cold compress on the back of your neck.

• Wear light colored, loose fitting clothing.

• Mist your face with cool water.

• Take a day trip or just drive around for a while with the air conditioning on or cool off at a local business/community center with air conditioning. 

Overheating can be dangerous and excessive heat also affects your home. Leaks and malfunctions are oftentimes more common, especially those related to HVAC systems. Ensure your systems are working properly ahead of time and prepare accordingly. If you experience a leak call SERVPRO of Lynnwood and talk with one of our trained professionals about scheduling an inspection. 

Spring Cleaning Tips

4/15/2021 (Permalink)

Let us assist with your spring cleaning needs!

Spring is in full swing here at SERVPRO of Lynnwood! Keeping your home tidy and clean is important for a variety of reasons. First and foremost, a clean home is less likely to face issues like mold damage and other problems that stem from a lack of attention and care. In addition, maintaining the cleanliness of a home will help tremendously in the resale value of the home should you consider selling down the road. From the kitchen to the garage and from the backyard area to the bedrooms and bathrooms spring cleaning should be part for your yearly routine.

Keep in mind the following tips to keep you home spring clean;

• Clean out your refrigerator – dispose of expired items and sanitize each tray and shelf
• Give all of your doormats a good wash
• Clean your upholstery and carpet with professional grade serums—you may consider professional help from SERVPRO to make sure the job is done right
• Scrub baseboards with Mr. Clean Magic Erasers or similar products
• Dust or wipe down ceiling fans and light fixtures
• Scrub down your stove and oven by removing racks and burners
• Sanitize all sinks and deodorize garbage disposals
• Pressure wash any moss or algae off of your driveways, sidewalks and roof
• Thoroughly clean all bathrooms – including shower doors, shower walls, and drain areas- check for blockages
• Check all decks, patios, porches, stairs, and railings for loose members and deterioration
• Inspect your HVAC system and contact SERVPRO of Lynnwood for a duct clean
• Wash all windows and check seals to make sure they are working properly
• Degrease and clean all kitchen cabinets that may have cooking residue
• Pull leaves and debris from gutters and downspouts. Reattach gutters that have pulled away from the house. Run a hose on the roof and check for proper drainage
• Check lawn sprinkler system for leaky valves, exposed lines, and improperly working sprinkler heads
• Cut back and trim all vegetation and overgrown bushes from structures. Limbs and leaves can cut into your home’s paint and force you to have that side of the house repainted. A little trimming can save a lot of money and time.

Lynnwood Community Health & Safety Fair Scheduled for 2022

4/15/2021 (Permalink)

2020 was a year filled with many challenges included most events being cancelled. This included the cancellation of Fair on 44^th which is the City of Lynnwood’s annual health and safety fair. In years past the fair helps raise awareness about emergency preparedness. Families and communities gather to provide vehicle tours, station tours, hands-on demonstrations such as fire extinguisher demos, escape plans or fitness and exercise tips.  

The City of Lynnwood has decided that they will again hold the fair in year 2022.

In the meantime, review the following steps to help you and your family be better prepared for an emergency:

Register for local alerts and warnings, you can download various apps or check access for wireless emergency alerts.

Develop and test your emergency communication plan. Ensure your contacts are updated.

Assemble or update your emergency supply kit, make sure nothing is expired or out of date.

Learn about local hazards and how you can be better prepared.

Practice your emergency response drill with your household members.

Collect and backup critical documents of importance.

Make a plan with your neighborhood to share resources and contact information.

Document property/valuables and make sure you have proper insurance coverage should an issue arise.

Make any property improvements that could reduce the risk of injury or damage during a disaster.

If you have questions about preparing your property for a disaster contact your emergency preparedness professionals at SERVPRO of Lynnwood- 425-774-1148.

How To Handle Storm Damage

4/15/2021 (Permalink)

Storm damage can occur at any time and can cause an immense amount of harm to your home or business. Some regions are more susceptible to storm damage than others. Heavy rains can cause flooding and powerful winds can cause roof damage. Some post-storm damage can create safety and health hazards as well, therefore having a strategy to respond quickly will help you to be ready to take steps immediately after the storm.

Take Safety Precautions

Heavy winds and rain can create physical hazards such as collapsed roofing materials, window damage, collapsed walls or standing water in the building interior. In addition, moisture can soak into furniture, carpeting, and building materials creating the perfect environment for mold growth that may cause health effects. Shut off the main gas line if you smell gas and beware of broken glass, exposed nails, and other sharp objects on the property. Contact SERVPRO of Lynnwood to help secure your property, assess damage and begin emergency services. If necessary, arrange for an alternative place for you and your family or employees while your property is being restored to a safe condition.

Photograph The damage

If it is safe to move around your property, use your cellphone or a camera to photograph the damage so that you will have a record for your insurance company. Documentation is very important to insurance company process and procedures for replacing or restoring your personal items.

Contact Your Insurance Company

Contact your insurance agent or claims center to notify them about the damage to your home immediately. Insurance companies will send out a representative to determine the extent of the damage and to work closely with SERVPRO professionals to discuss job scope and approvals,

Look Into Federal Disaster Assistance

The federal government may have declared the area affected by the storm as a disaster area that is eligible for low-cost loans to help restore your property to normal. You would be required to file documents to receive these loans. When a storm-related disaster strikes, it may seem overwhelming, but these steps can help you to begin the process of restoring your property to normal.

How To Prepare Your Commercial Building

4/15/2021 (Permalink)

Let SERVPRO of Lynnwood Prepare You for the Unexpected.

The SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile is a startup approach that provides the critical information needed to begin mitigation and recovery services. It is designed to serve as a quick reference of important building and contact information.  

Benefits for your Business:

By working with SERVPRO’s Emergency READY Profile, your business can receive the benefit of over 40 years of experience in reducing the impact of any natural or man-made disaster. SERVPRO is a leader in water and fire damage response and can help you quickly get your property back in working order.

The SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile Advantage:

• A no cost assessment of your facility.– This means there is no need to allocate funds, giving you a great value at no cost.  
• A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of   an emergency.– It will only take a little time to complete and will not take you away from current projects.   But it will save a lot of time if ever needed.  
• A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster.– This can help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive by having an immediate plan of action.  
• Establishes SERVPRO of Lynnwood.– You have a provider that is recognized as an industry leader and is close by. 
• Identification for authorizing work to begin.– This saves time so we can begin the work of mitigating the damage which can save you time and money.  
• Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information.– Having a quick reference of what to do, how to do it and who to call provides solutions in advance of an emergency so that during the emergency you are “Ready for whatever happens.” 

The Importance of Planning:

As many as 50% of businesses close down following a disaster and of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place.  Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind. And knowing you are “Ready for whatever happens” communicated trust and peace of mind to your clients and employees. Call and schedule an appointment today! 425-774-1148

• By developing a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile for your business, you help to minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do, who to call and what to expect in advance is helpful in receiving timely mitigation and can help minimize the effects water and fire damage can have on your business.

The Best Way to Reduce Business Interruption Following a Disaster is to plan ahead- call us to schedule your ERP! 425-774-1148.

The Dangers of Contaminated Water

4/9/2021 (Permalink)

Immediately after experiencing life-altering flooding in Lynnwood, WA the first thing you probably want to do is start dealing with the water damage from the flood. Before diving into the problem it is important to know about the associated dangers of contaminated water also known as black water.

What is this water and why should it be avoided?

Black water is liquid presumed to house multiple contaminants. It could contain:

• Fecal matter
• Urine
• Used toilet paper

Sewage systems frequently become compromised and leak after water damage, they can pose health threats to those who encounter the dirty liquid.

It’s also important to be aware of gray water. That type often comes from washing machines, dishwashers, sinks and showers and is not immediately as dangerous as the black variety, but can become more hazardous after 48 hours of contact with building surfaces.

How can you stay safe from contaminated water?

The best way to limit your exposure to hazardous water from flooding is to limit your exposure to it. Instead of trying to handle the cleanup process yourself depend on our SERVPRO team to assess the damage and tackle the steps necessary for a thorough restoration of your home.

Black water is a likely contaminant after a flood, and it’s a primary reason why you should not deal with the water damage on your own. Contacting a professional team to assist with damage from flooding gives you greater protection from possible risks and increases the likelihood of positive outcomes.

Call us at 425-774-1148 for more information on mitigating storm damage and how you can be prepared.

Utilizing Space Heaters Safely

4/9/2021 (Permalink)

Fire does not care what season it is or whether or not it’s cold outside. Winter related fires are extremely common, especially when you are trying hard to keep warm.   

SERVPRO of Lynnwood has experience in fire damage from space heaters and can provide you with some tips to help avoid having to deal with fire, soot or smoke damage.   

SERVPRO of Lynnwood technicians understand that accidents happen. Placing space heaters too close to other objects or using the wrong type of heater in a particular area can cause severe problems. Please take a moment to consider some factors leading to these fires.  

Oil Heaters - Should be used in areas where there is the possibility of moisture. This eliminates any electrical hazards that may be present due to water conductivity. Always keep a safe distance to avoid contact burns.   

Electric Heaters - These heaters come in a variety of shapes and sizes and can be useful for many areas in your home. However, they should never be left unattended. Thinking of electric heaters as giant toasters can help you understand how important it is to keep a constant eye on them. Make sure you have sufficient wattage to run the device and never use extension cords.  

Our SERVPRO staff gets an incredible amount of space heater-related calls every winter. People are trying to stay warm and use space heaters quite often for this purpose. However, using a space heater does not need to cause so many problems during a cold spell. Just use common sense, and always follow the directions of the manufacturer. The professional technicians at SERVPRO of Lynnwood state that you follow a few simple guidelines when operating your space heaters.   

1) Always place space heaters on a flat, solid surface for proper stabilization.   

2) Purchase heaters with an automatic shut-off feature to prevent dangers from tipping.   

3) Maintain proper spacing between heaters and other objects in your home.   

4) Never leave children or pets unsupervised around operating heaters.   

5) Shut your heaters off properly before leaving your home or going to sleep.   

Following these guidelines does not ensure that you will never have to deal with fire damage from space heaters. However, you are less likely to have an unwanted consequence. If this sort of incident still strikes your home this winter season, make the call to our offices immediately. We will respond quickly and provide you with the services you need to get back to normal fast.   

Call SERVPRO of Lynnwood at 425-774-1148.

Operating Fire Extinguishers

4/9/2021 (Permalink)

Fire extinguishers can be very important tools used to fight fires in Lynwood, Washington, homes. Many homes do not have a fire extinguisher and are without this valuable piece of technology. Fire damage can be prevented with the help of an extinguisher applied at the right time. Thankfully extinguishers are generally quite easy to use. They are designed to be straightforward and even have the instructions printed on the side.

1. Pull the pin.
2. Aim the nozzle.
3. Squeeze the handle.
4. Sweep the area.

3 Steps to Safety

Most standard home fire extinguishers in Lynnwood, Washington, can be activated with four simple steps. Start by pulling the round pin at the base of the handle. Doing so breaks the plastic tamper seal. Next, hold the nozzle and aim it toward the base of the fire. Next, squeeze the fire extinguisher handle using a firm pressure. Finally, sweep the nozzle side to side until the fire is entirely extinguished.

Spraying higher up in the air toward flames that are already burning may make it impossible to put the fire out. Instead, you should aim to where the flames are starting: the base of the fire. This is typically the most effective strategy in putting out fires with an extinguisher.

The Care of Fire Extinguishers at Home

Even a simple kitchen fire can pose a serious risk to the home and to human safety. Fire extinguishers can be kept in the kitchen, in hallways, and in garages. Anywhere with a high fire risk or where heating elements exist should be equipped with a home fire extinguisher. Used extinguishers should never be reused; promptly replace all used and expired extinguishers. Make a habit of checking the expiration date to ensure that each one is ready for use. They have a date printed on the side, so just use this as a reference. You can check your extinguishers as often as you check your smoke detector batteries; once a year is good practice.

Keep a fire extinguisher where you need it most. With this advice, you can help protect your home and your loved ones.

For more on fire damage visit us at http://www.SERVPROlynnwood.com.

Expediting Disaster Recovery via Your Mobile Device

4/9/2021 (Permalink)

Just as you use a smartphone to receive emails and news updates, your disaster preparedness plan can be mobile as well. Your cell phone can be used as a lifeline to communicate with employees, execute response plans and connect with family members during a disaster, especially because most mobile networks often remain active when landlines are down. With the right preparation and utilizing hotspots or Wi-Fi, mobile technology serves as an effective resource that you can integrate into a disaster preparedness plan and keep recovery efforts progressing forward.

Consider taking the following steps to better prepare yourself;

Sign-up for SERVPRO’s ERP (Emergency Ready Plan) and download the App. If you do not have an existing ERP contact SERVPRO of Lynnwood to facilitate one for your residence and business. Make sure to upload all of your emergency shut-off, first responder and contact information. Make note of which vendors will be there for you in the time of need. Remember, SERVPRO of Lynnwood is prepared to respond 24/7 365 days a year to your Water, Fire or Biohazard emergency.

Sign Up for FEMA Text Messages; The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) offers a text-messaging program that provides safety tips about specific types of disasters. In addition, they offer information about shelters and disaster recovery centers. To receive general preparedness tips every month, text PREPARE to 43362 (4FEMA). To learn about shelters in your area after a disaster, text SHELTER and your zip code to 43362 (4FEMA). For information about open Disaster Recovery Centers, text DRC and your zip code to 43362 (4FEMA).

Dedicate an emergency preparedness training session at your place of work to practice text alerts, particularly if your company issues mobile phones to employees. In addition to providing workers with important numbers to store in their phones, take the time to ensure that all the employees know how to use the necessary features.

Other resources that you may find helpful include:

• American Red Cross
• American Red Cross Safe and Well
• National Weather Service
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
• National Hurricane Center
• FEMA

Don’t hesitate to call our team at SERVPRO of Lynnwood for questions about utilizing preparedness programs and tools, contact us at 425-774-1148.

How To Handle A Residential Fire

4/9/2021 (Permalink)

1. Ask whether it is safe to enter the home. Do not enter if the authorities deem it unsafe. They may establish a safety zone, but never assume a room is safe until it has been cleared to enter. Respect yellow tape and wear a dust mask to prevent inhalation of particulates in the air.
2. Call and Inform Appropriate Contacts.
   1. Contact family members and let them know you are safe, and unharmed.
   2. Contact your insurance agent. They will be able to talk you through the necessary steps, including proper documentation and emergency lodging expenses (keep all of your receipts!) At this point the insurance company may assist in securing a company to help with clean up options.
   3. You may request SERVPRO at this time for restoration services.
   4. Another call may be to your landlord or property manager if applicable, and to your local American Red Cross who may provide additional resources.
3. Secure the property to prevent possible looting. SERVPRO is available to assist with securing property/ Board Ups.
4. If water hoses were used to exterminate the fire, drying your home is critical. It is best to call the professionals at SERVPRO to assist with professional water and fire cleaning. Water can lead to mold damage if not dried properly. Our team is an approved restoration contractor for many major insurance carriers and adheres to the highest standards in the restoration industry.
5. Seek counseling if needed. Children and adults can feel a traumatic sense of loss, and sometimes need help to avoid a lasting sense of sadness and disorientation after a house fire. Don’t be afraid to reach out for help. A house fire is a traumatic event and individuals need to be treated with respect and compassion by those close to the process.
6. For more information on contents and structural drying, smoke and soot removal call SERVPRO of Lynnwood at 425-774-1148.

Leave Smoke Damage Remediation to the Professionals

4/9/2021 (Permalink)

After a fire is put out, your thoughts then have to turn to smoke damage restoration. Between the flames, soot and smoke, a lot may need to be addressed. You may think it can be easy to handle this on your own or have some people who work for you attempt it. However, at the end of the day, you always want to leave this work in the hands of competent professionals in North Creek, Washington.

1. It Can Take a Long Time to Clean Up

Soot damage remediation involves a lot more than scrubbing the floor and walls. First, you need to address the damage caused by the fire directly. Then you need to look at the items damaged by smoke. There may also be water damage brought in by the firefighters. Fixing all of this can take a while, and if you do not know what you are doing, then it can take even longer.

2. You Do Not Know What to Look For

Smoke damage may not always be readily visible. The damage may have extended to behind the drywall and impacted the building’s insulation. Soot may have made its way inside various electronics that you need to address or risk short circuiting something valuable. Damage restoration experts will not stop until they have inspected every last area of the building.

3. No Access to the Right Tools

To adequately carry out smoke cleaning, you need some heavy-duty tools. Purchasing these items outright can be rather expensive, and you are honestly better off simply hiring professionals to come out who already have the necessary tools. Hopefully this kind of thing will not happen again, so you may never need to use a thermal fogger again.

Smoke damage can upset business operations for a while, which only makes it more paramount to take care of it posthaste. Do not waste time trying to fix things on your own. Always contact the professionals.

For more on smoke damage visit us at http://www.SERVPROlynnwood.com.

How Will Your Business Handle A Disaster?

4/8/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is always prepared for the unexpected!

SERVPRO of Lynnwood is a full service commercial restoration firm. We specialize in commercial drying, cleaning and decontamination needs. Our approach uses a collaborative method to reduce operational risks, minimize downtime and save you money in order to get your business up and running after a disaster.

Consider the statistic that 50% of businesses who suffer a major disaster will never reopen. Of the businesses that reopened, most of them had a plan in place.

Several questions a business owner may consider;

• Do your employees know your chain-of-command?
• Do your teams know where your water shut-offs are?
• Would your employees be able to direct first responders?

The actions taken in the initial minutes of an emergency are critical. A prompt warning to employees to evacuate, shelter or lockdown can save lives. A call for help to public emergency services that provides full and accurate information will help the dispatcher send the right responders and equipment. An employee trained to administer first aid or perform CPR can be lifesaving. Action by employees with knowledge of building and process systems can help control a leak and minimize damage to the facility and the environment.

Thankfully, SERVPRO of Lynnwood has an excellent system in place to help streamline your emergency response plan. With the Emergency Ready Program SERVPRO will help you create a functional cloud based data set that can be used for things like staff emergency manuals, emergency contact information and building emergency critical information. Because disasters often happen when you are away, your team will have all of this data at their fingertips, wherever you need it, with a push of a button.

To strategically align your building operations to make sure you have the help you need in an emergency, give us a call today. The consultation and Emergency Readiness Program is offered at no cost to your facility, give us a call at 425-774-1148.

SERVPRO of Lynnwood Supports the Lynnwood Chamber

4/8/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Lynnwood is a proud member of the Lynnwood Chamber. While 2020 and 2021 have been difficult years for networking and connecting with community members we have been lucky to attend many online meetings and listen to how other businesses were handling the unique struggles of the year. The Lynnwood Chamber allows us to learn more about supporting our local businesses and contributing to important initiatives that affect us as local businesses. We think everyone should be involved and aware!

The Chamber objectives are:

• To advance membership success
• To build a strong local economy
• To help business people make connections
• To promote a vibrant community
• To represent the interest of business with government

SERVPRO of Lynnwood will continue our support of the chamber to foster educational development, to network with local business owners and demonstrate our compassion for community growth and excellence. If you are interested in joining the Lynnwood Chamber or looking for resources in our community visit their website at https://www.lynnwoodchamber.org/.

Fostering Company Culture at SERVPRO of Lynnwood

3/25/2021 (Permalink)

One of Our Team Members Delivers to the Local Food Bank

Many people ask about the ‘Company Culture’ of a workplace and how it influences the day-in, day-out workflow and ‘feel’ of an organization. Here at SERVPRO of Lynnwood we are serious about providing an inclusive family-oriented work environment where everyone feels appreciated and recognized for their contributions. We foster a positive company culture by:

• Celebrating Birthdays – Each employee is celebrated with a cake of their choice and a hand signed card from all team members. The ‘Happy Birthday” song is always in order. It is important to give recognition on their special day!
• Team Meetings Recognizing Specific Accomplishments- When employees have earned a certification, received customer praise or gone above and beyond for the team they are given special recognition with announcements and applauds from all. We like to show recognition especially when well-deserved. Frequent prize incentives are included!
• Celebrating Families at the Holidays- Around the Holidays we feel it is important to include our employees and their families as well in mutual celebration. Significant others and children are invited for a meal and presented with gifts to show our appreciation. At SERVPRO the whole family matters!
• Volunteering in the Community- We take turns donating to different nonprofits and charities in our communities that are close to our hearts. Employees participate by donating food, clothing, toys and their time during drives and donation drop-offs. We feel it is important to foster a sensing of caring and community support as a team.
• Company Book Club- Each quarter we share in a team book club. The books we choose are motivational and learning focused. We share thoughts and feedback from our reading on how to grow personally and professionally.

SERVPRO of Lynnwood is always working to foster an environment for positivity, growth, and inspiration. We believe in promoting from within and helping our employees reach their full potential by showing them the respect and attention they deserve. It is our belief that to serve our customers best we need a strong, healthy, and happy team. We would love to hear how your organization fosters company culture, please share with us!

How to Categorize Levels of Water Damage and Contamination

3/25/2021 (Permalink)

Despite what many people think, not all water damage is created equal. There are a number of different classes and categories of water damage all dependent on level of contamination and severity. According the IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification), there are three categories of water/liquid and four classes of the damage.

Category 1 – This is basically any liquid from a clean and/or sanitary source like a faucet, a toilet, or fountain.

Category 2 – This refers to liquid/water that used to be called grey water, which can potentially cause illness if ingested. This includes things like dishwasher or washing machine overflow, toilet overthrow or sink drains.

Category 3 – This category used to be called black water; it is extremely unsanitary. This includes sewer backup, flooding from rivers, and stagnant liquid that has fostered bacterial growth.

Now let’s examine the classes;

Class 1 – This is very easy to deal with and only affects a part of a single room, with little to no wet carpet, with water only on surfaces like wood or concrete.

Class 2 – This class effects and entire room, and wetness has went up the walls about 12” or more, with moisture still in the structure.

Class 3 – This class basically means that ceiling, walls, carpet and insulation are all saturated with liquid or water. This is often due to water coming from overhead.

Class 4 – This class means that there has been enough water or time to saturate materials with very low levels of permeation, like hardwood or stone.

The IICRC has been the driving force in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation. These IICRC standards take years to develop and require the coordination of experts in the field: manufacturers, industry organizations, insurance professionals, training schools, contractors, and public health professionals.

Every five years, the standards are reviewed and updated. The water damage restoration field changes rapidly with advancements in technology and science, and therefore the standards must evolve to keep pace.

Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: 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. Call SERVPRO of Lynnwood at 425-774-1148 for all your restoration needs!

Building Managers: Are You Prepared for The Next Emergency?

3/25/2021 (Permalink)

ERP Application

Are You Prepared for The Next Emergency?

Building Mangers have tough and complicated jobs! A wide array of moving parts, managing vendors, and making sure systems are running properly. SERVPRO of Lynnwood is here to make your job easier!

Why is it that emergencies seem to always happen at the most inopportune times- In the middle of the night or when no one is around? The job of Building Manager itself is hard enough but when the flood gates open life can become even more stressful. If you have been in the building management industry for quite some time it’s likely you have experienced a water, fire or sewage issue. Did you feel prepared? Did you know what to do and who to call?  For building managers SERVPRO of Lynnwood strives to be a trusted and reliable vendor for these difficult situations that arise. One of the many tools we offer is the Emergency Ready Profile (ERP). This is a profile, created jointly between you and SERVPRO that lists all of the information with detailed directions and pictures you would need in the time of an emergency. It lists information such as:

• Nearest Police, Fire and Hospital Contact Information and Locations
• Major utility shut-off locations and photos: Water, Gas, Electric
• Major Contact Information: Decision-Makers, Insurance, Vendors
• Building plans, access information

Let us help you be prepared before the disaster unfolds! ERPs are FREE, no strings attached and are a great resource for the unexpected. SERVPRO of Lynnwood would love to be your preferred emergency services vendor, call us at 425-774-1148 for a complimentary walk-through to get started!

Difference in A Residential Fire vs. Commercial Fire

3/24/2021 (Permalink)

Each year in the United States, fire damage costs property owners and the economy as a whole nearly half a trillion dollars. This easily places fire damage as the number-one cause of property damage.

Fire damage is often an extremely complex tragedy. Soot damage, smoke damage and flood damage from fire sprinkler systems are all completely unique forms of damage, only correctly remediated through highly specialized techniques of restoration professionals. The biggest issue associated with fire damage is the compromising of the structure.

What's more, fires that occur in commercial settings often involve the loss of inventory and capital equipment, while cutting in to work production time. This makes commercial fire damage one of the most serious potential disasters that face business owners.

Fortunately, there are professional companies, such as SERVPRO OF Lynnwood who specialize in the restoration of both residential and commercial fire damage. Although residential and commercial fire damage often poses a huge challenge to property owners, with the right team of experts, it can typically be resolved by following a smooth and streamlined process. Always call in a professional restoration company such as SERVPRO of Lynnwood.

Although many homeowners pride themselves on their ability to perform handy work in their own homes, it is absolutely imperative to call in a team of professionals who are well versed in remediation and working with the insurance companies. If not handled properly and in a timely fashion, soot damage and smoke damage can easily cause the failure of mechanical devices in the home or business, such as furnaces, fans and air conditioners. Smoke damage can linger, not just for months but for years, causing a pungent odor that can make a property uninhabitable.

Water damage caused by fire hoses and firefighters carrying out their normal fire suppression activities can easily result in extensive damage to the property. In fact, with modern fire suppression techniques, the most serious source of damage in fires is often caused by the water dispelled during the fire suppression itself. On top of this, fire hoses are designed to spray at incredibly high pressures, often high enough to directly cause structural damage to the building.

Professional fire restoration companies can minimize the costs associated with residential or commercial fire damage and quickly begin the fire restoration process. Most large fires in the United States are electrical fires or utility room fires. Fires in residences, such as kitchen fires, are usually quickly detected and thus extinguished early. On the other hand, electrical fires and utility room fires often begin in remote locations within the property, leading to the fire quickly growing and creating massive soot damage and smoke damage, even where structural damage has not occurred.

When lives are at stake firefighters may use techniques that significantly damage property to save people who could be trapped inside. These fires also often require aggressive action from firefighters. Fire trucks, capable of producing burst pressures of greater than 1,200 psi in fire hoses, can easily produce enough water pressure to break drywall, knock down doors and even rip siding off a structure. In a fire emergency, fire trucks may also cause extensive damage to the exterior of a property, including landscaping and the lawn. These are all areas that a professional fire restoration team will be able to quickly remediate, in addition to soot damage.


Ultimately, with a timely response, a residential fire or commercial fire doesn't have to spell doom for your home or business. Visit http://www.SERVPROlynnwood.com for more information on fire damage or call us at 425-774-1148.

How To Remedy A Leaking Water Heater

3/11/2021 (Permalink)

When faced with a leaking water heater, it can feel like a whirlwind of shock and confusion while you try to figure out how to remedy the problem. Repairing water damage is costly, and you often have only a short amount of time to successfully protect your home and resolve the issue, especially to avoid lingering problems like microbial growth. Here are the first steps you need to take to deal with a failed water heater.

1. Shut Off the Main Water Supply

Shutting off the water as soon as possible ensures that no additional water floods your home. Otherwise, the water will just keep pouring in from the leaking water heater.

2. Call a Professional

If you are concerned about how much water impacted flooring and walls, it will be important to procure an expert’s help with water removal. Your local specialists at SERVPRO of Lynnwood will have the necessary insight and equipment to ensure that all water and hidden moisture from the broken water heater is safely removed. This will diminish the risk of mold or rot from water damage.

3. Dry the Area

While you are waiting for your local water damage restoration professionals to arrive, you want to make sure you have no standing water ruining flooring and furniture, so do your best to dry the area thoroughly. This includes setting up industrial-sized fans, removing furniture and opening windows to encourage air flow.

4. Clean Where Necessary

Thankfully, water from your leaking water heater is classified as “category 1,” meaning it’s clean water. With category 1 floodwaters, there isn’t usually a pressing need to sanitize after a flooding situation. You’ll still want to clean and dry any affected furnishings to prevent microbial or musty smells. 

In short, if your water heater malfunctions, shut off the water, call for backup: 425-774-1148 and do what you can while you wait. By acting quickly and being prepared, you can set yourself up for a fast restoration process. Visit http://www.SERVPROlynnwood.com for more information on water damage.

Health and Safety Precautions During Covid-19 at SERVPRO of Lynnwood

1/5/2021 (Permalink)

Team members wear full PPE while decontaminating suspected or confirmed Covid-19 cases.

Due to the covid-19 pandemic our team members have been extremely mindful of our safety operations as SERVPRO is considered an ‘essential service’ to the community. It is our number one goal to protect the health of our employees and customers. To accomplish a safe working environment, we have strict protocols in place based off CDC guidelines. We would like to share the details of our safety precautions so you can feel at ease when working with our team.

• Our team wears masks in and around the office to minimize covid-19 spread, we provide masks and gloves to all our employees.
• Every morning employees enter through one door and immediately utilize a hand washing station. Employees are instructed to wash each time they leave and re-enter the facility.
• Employee’s temperatures are recorded every morning and they answer a questionnaire ensuring them have not had any exposures nor feel any symptoms of covid-19.
• Our facility and fleet vehicles are sanitized daily. We also have a full-time employee responsible for sanitizing all touchpoints and equipment throughout the facility daily.
• Our facility doors are locked and are only accessible by key card. Deliveries and visitors are kept to an absolute minimum and go through a screening process as well.
• Offices desks are spaced more than 6 feet apart and have partitions separating workspaces.
• While driving and on jobsites technicians are required to wear masks, gloves, and booties, which are disposed of after each job.

Occasionally we will have customers make special requests related to covid-19 protocols which we are happy to accommodate within reason. Making our customers feel comfortable and safe is our priority. If you need service but have questions about covid-19 protocols, please contact our team and we will be happy to speak with you. Additionally, we continue to offer covid-19 decontamination for commercial properties while wearing full PPE for suspected and confirmed cases. Call us 24/7 at 425-774-1148. 

Holiday Cooking Safety Tips

12/2/2020 (Permalink)

November and December is the time of year where people come together to share meals and quality time together. This year has been quite different than others as gatherings are considerably smaller depending on your local guidelines. As a result, we may be seeing less experienced cooks in the kitchen- which in our industry leads to more kitchen related emergencies. According to the NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) holiday cooking accidents are the leading cause of home fires and injuries.

Let’s review the following tips to help ensure a safe and happy holiday;

• Never leave cooking food unattended. If you must leave while frying, grilling or boiling turn off the appliance.
• Check food regularly to and utilize a timer to remind yourself.
• Keep small children away from hot surfaces.
• Keep flammable items away from stoves, ovens and other heat sources to avoid accidental ignition.
• Do not wear loose clothing or dangling sleeves while cooking.
• Clean cooking surfaces on a regular build up to prevent grease build-up which can ignite a fire.
• Make sure you have access to a fire extinguisher should an emergency arise unexpectedly.
• Make sure appliances are turned off completely when not in use. Leaving an over or stove on overnight can lead to serious ramifications.
• Make sure your smoke alarms are working properly in case of an emergency.

If you experience an emergency in your home call the professionals at SERVPRO of Lynnwood: 425-774-1148 to assist in your time of need!  

How to Avoid Frozen Pipes In Cold Weather

12/2/2020 (Permalink)

The colder months in Snohomish County can threaten the pipes in your business. While most business owners know the risk of frozen pipes in the winter, many don’t know the correct steps to prevention. As the days get colder, your property is at risk for frozen and subsequently burst pipes, to keep your plumbing from freezing follow the tips below;

1. Don’t Turn Off the Heat

If you need to leave your building for an extended period, keep the heat on. The temperature of the building can be below your comfort level but not too cold. The idea is to keep the internal temperature high enough that the pipes cannot freeze in your absence.

2. Use Heating Tape

Heating tape is applied to your pipes. This tape comes in two different forms but can be quite useful.

3. Let the Faucet Drip

In most circumstances, a dripping faucet might sound like a problem. To prevent frozen pipes, however, you can let the faucet drip in order to relieve pressure in the system. After all, it is the pressure from a frozen pipe that can cause it to burst.

4. Add Insulation

Basements and attics are common places to find pipes. However, they aren’t always insulated rooms. You can combat this by insulating the room or insulating the pipes. To protect the pipes, you can fit foam rubber or fiberglass sleeves over them.

5. Don’t close interior doors to keep heat circulating. 

If your pipes are located in cupboards, keep the cabinet doors open. This allows the heat from the building to keep your pipes warm.

Frozen pipes in the winter are avoidable. However, if you do find yourself with a frozen pipe situation, you can trust the professionals at SERVPRO of Lynnwood to help you. A frozen pipe can become a burst pipe very quickly.

Tips on Utilizing A Portable Fire Extinguisher

12/1/2020 (Permalink)

Remember the P-A-S-S method for best results.

Let’s discuss the correct methods for utilizing a portable fire extinguisher Here at SERVPRO of Lynnwood we cannot stress enough the importance of fire extinguishers in your workplace and at home. Residents and employees should be appropriately trained on how to use fire extinguishers and can often mean the difference between saving lives and salvaging the structure from further damage. The NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) uses a helpful acronym for remembering the correct sequence and way to operate a fire extinguisher known as P-A-S-S.

Let’s review the steps for PASS;

• Pull the pin. Hold the nozzle pointing away from you and release the locking mechanism.
• Aim Point the fire extinguisher at the base of the fire for best effect.
• Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly.
• Sweep the nozzle from side to side.

Its important to read the fire extinguisher instructions to familiarize yourself. Ensure that you have the correct size and style for your facility and consider where to store it so accessibility is feasible during an unexpected emergency. If a fire occurs in your home or business call the professionals at SERVPRO of Lynnwood 425-774-1148. Our team assists with cleaning and restoration of structure and contents, we make a stressful situation more manageable and streamlined to make your life easier. If you have questions about fire safety in your home or business don’t hesitate to reach out, we are always happy to help.

Limiting Damage During A Commercial Flood

6/19/2020 (Permalink)

We understand the stress that comes with flooding in your business. Here are some helpful tips to help prevent potential damages before or during a flood!

• Protect doorways or any other open gaps by putting sandbags in front or behind them. This will minimize the amount of water that forcefully enters your home.
• Take photos or videos of flooding and report to your insurance. This will help you in the long run when trying to replace the items affected by the flood.
• Move any valuables to a higher floor or elevate them from the floor not allowing water to touch them in any way.
• Clean and clear gutters. This will allow water to more easily move and not get stuck around your home.
• Keep up to date on the news of the flood using radio
• Have a plumper install an interior or exterior backflow prevention valve to make sure there is no sewage backup during the flood.
• Turn off water line to stop water from continually flooding your home (Helps only if that is the source of the flood).
• If possible have a survival kit containing important documents, food, water, medications and a first aid kit in case you need to leave your home or stay indoors for an extended amount of time.
• Open window in your home to help air move more freely. This will prevent pressure buildups or major changes in air flow.
• Stay away from downed power lines and electrical wires.
• Shut off electricity to prevent and short-circuits, malfunctions or electrocutions.
• If advised to evacuate please do for the safety of your family and find higher ground to go to.
• Try to remove the water as fast as possible using buckets, vacuum, or various other methods.
• Call SERVPRO of Lynnwood - Industry leading water restoration specialists 

Using some or all of these methods could help save your home and valuables from worse damage or possible replacement, while saving you (the business owner) thousands of dollars in the process. If there is a possibility of a flood happening take precaution to limit damage and call in the professionals at SERVPRO of Lynnwood, 425-774-1148.

Initial Fire Damage Cleaning Process

6/19/2020 (Permalink)

When there is fire in a home or business, it can make you feel like your world is falling apart. Soot damage, water damage, and smoke damage can make you wonder if fire damage restoration is even possible. After the fire trucks leave and you're left with the smoke smell that has seeped into everything, you will have no clue where your fire cleanup will begin. Water damage has taken its toll as well after the efforts of the fire department to save as much as possible. You're grateful for their part in stopping fire damage from going to far, but you don't know what to do other than board up the windows and walk away. Don't give up on your home or business. 

Don't Try to Do it Yourself

As you are surrounded by the smoke smell and you stare at the soot damage that is everywhere you look, you might be tempted to get out a soap and bucket in order to get to work. Smoke damage and fire damage require the skills and expertise of professionals if you want the job to be done properly. You have your own obligations to take care of after a fire in the house or a fire in the business. When residential or commercial fire damage takes place, you still have to carry on with work, family, and other responsibilities. You don't have the time or the resources to erase the signs of fire damage yourself. 

Begin with an Initial Assessment

In order to address fire damage that includes smoke damage and soot damage, SERVPRO professionals will perform a comprehensive evaluation. They'll look at the results of fire in the home or fire in the business in order to decide what must be taken care of first. Beneath the smoke smell, your carpeting, flooring, and walls have all been affected by fire damage. You'll need more than to have someone board up the property. It will be necessary to have a fire cleanup that will bring your property back to the way it was. Fire damage restoration is a step by step process. Residential and commercial fire damage require an extensive fire cleanup plan. SERVPRO representatives take a walk through after a fire in the house or fire in the business, they'll board up any broken windows. Trust your restoration company to board up any windows that have been destroyed and cover the roof with tarps if necessary to prevent looting or further damage. 

Let the Fire Cleanup Begin

SERVPRO performs a fire cleanup process that erases soot damage, eliminates smoke damage, and puts your fire damage behind you as the fire damage restoration begins. The smoke smell is difficult to deal with, therefore proper chemicals are used. With excellent cleaning skills, top notch equipment, and the experience to be thorough, you'll soon forget there was fire damage.

Visit http://www.SERVPROlynnwood.com for more information on fire damage

A Comprehensive Plan for Fire Preparedness

6/17/2020 (Permalink)

Experts Say Every Second Counts During a Fire!

When a fire erupts people and pets have as little as two minutes to escape a burning home or business before it’s too late to get out. In a matter of seconds a small flame can become a major fire, making the escape plan critical. An emergency escape plan is not required for business owners, however OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) recommends building an emergency action plan to protect everyone.

A survey conducted by the American Red Cross shows that only 26% of families have developed and practiced a fire escape plan. Luckily this number is slightly higher for businesses, however if your employer has not briefed the team on a plan it is time to start a discussion. Experts recommend practicing twice a year. Increase your chance of survival by ensuring you have working smoke detectors, an escape plan and practice under your belt.

Here are some helpful recommendations to consider;

1. Draw a map of your building and identify number of floors, stairs, doors, windows and enclosed spaces or high risk areas. Make sure everything opens easily and that there are keys for access.
2. Consider escape ladders especially if there are sleeping areas. Sore ladders near windows or make sure collapsible exterior ladders are in proper working order.
3. Teach children how to escape on their own; especially at schools. Plan for everyone in the structure; such as elderly or disabled individuals.

Take the following steps when developing a plan;

1. Organize emergency preparedness procedures and pick a leader or organizer.
2. Post evacuation procedures so they are well marked and easily visible.
3. Conduct exercises and drills- including designating safe spots and communication plans.

How Safe Is Your Building?

6/17/2020 (Permalink)

Every Spring we celebrate Building Safety Month. This may not be a widely recognized event but in our industry and to SERVPRO, it is very important in recognizing emergency preparedness. We put a special emphasis on educating insurance/commercial property professionals, as well as the general public on the importance of disaster preparedness and innovations in building safety. These two topics go hand in hand when making sure you and your family remains safe when disaster strikes. By having a disaster plan ahead of time, it will save you time, money and keep your mind at ease.

When a flood has occurred, you must start working immediately in attempt to protect as much of your property as possible. It only takes minutes for your property to become damaged and not acting can cause more. Calling SERVPRO of Lynnwood immediately to handle the problem should be the first step. Waiting to call or trying to handle it on your own could cause more damage and make it harder to restore. SERVPRO is faster to any disaster and will arrive with their trained team ready make the problem like the problem never happened. When SERVPRO arrives, they will start to use their advanced equipment and proven techniques to remove the water as quickly as possible. From then on, SERVPRO will begin drying the structure and any items that have been affected by the flood. If necessary SERVPRO will take extra steps to protect your home from further damage and will closely monitor the property to make sure nothing more needs to be done. We monitor ongoing job-sites to make sure there is no mold growth, or another problem arises. Calling as soon as possible will help this process move faster and ultimately save money. A few hours can be the difference between no damage, some damage and significant, long lasting damage. A quick response allows SERVPRO of Lynnwood to restore items and not replace them saving even more money, call our trusted team for assistance at 425-774-1148.

The Importance of Professional Job Training

6/17/2020 (Permalink)

Even when hiring someone that has experience in this industry, on the job training is still a necessity. On the job training goes much farther than making sure your staff is trained for any job they might come across. On the job training ensures that everybody in the company understands what is going on throughout every job and are held to the company standards. Everybody being on the same page ensures that project managers, technicians and office personnel all understand our job process, therefore it can be explained to the clients properly.

Oftentimes company standards differ in some ways from the industry standards because the industry standards are set to just the necessities. Employees being trained should understand why we do a job a certain way this will advance their career and further their abilities. Getting the job done isn’t good enough, getting the job done right and making sure the customer is 100% satisfied is the SERVPRO way.

Our employees are constantly receiving training and safety debriefs so that we can take on high level jobs and continue to grow our areas of expertise. It also is a benefit for the employee because they will be better at their job, helping them foster professional growth. Job training is vital to the success of the company, and it makes sure everybody is on the same page, doing the job right, all the time.

SERVPRO of Lynnwood goes above and beyond. We begin our training process with hours of SERVPRO training videos followed by the ECTP (Employee Certification Training Program). Employees must pass a series of six exams with anywhere from twenty to eighty questions. Employees begin work in our warehouse where they become familiarized with types of equipment, products and tools we use along with the appropriate cleaning process. After in-office training our employees join our team on the job sites where the process is explained as the work is performed. All employees receive hands on experience and are offered growth opportunities as time goes on such as certification opportunities in different fields. If you interested in learning more about working at SERVPRO of Lynnwood please reach out to us on our website for general inquires and open positions.

Lynnwood, WA Soot and Smoke Damage Cleaning Protocols

6/5/2020 (Permalink)

While a considerable amount of fire damage can be caused by the burning fire, not a lot of residents know that soot and smoke can create just as much or more damage as the burning. Smoke and soot blackens walls, ceiling, carpet, upholstery, porcelain and much more. Smoke causes damage because smoke is finely divided particulate matter and contains liquid droplets called “Aerosols”. Depending on what is being burnt during the fire determines the size, quantity and the character of the smoke particulates and Aerosols. The 5 different types of smoke (Causing Soot and Aerosol) are:

1. Wet Smoke: Usually has high levels of aerosols and other liquid components. Wet smoke often happens when it is in a closed environment and does not have a lot of oxygen. Restoration techniques to combat this type of fire could range from aggressive techniques to repainting.
2. Dry Smoke: This is caused by fast burning in oxygen rich environments. More oxygen produces a less pungent odor and deposit smaller particles. The residue from this fire is drier and much easier to clean that other smoke types.
3. Plastic/Rubber: These fires typically burn at low temperatures and produce a lot of lightweight particulate, smearing easily. Residue can be corrosive have a bad odor and can be removed with activated oxygen machines or deodorizing fires.
4. Protein-Based: From Meat and Poultry, leaving a light or invisible residue that requires wet cleaning and deodorization. This process can take a long amount of time to complete.
5. Fuel-Oil: Usually caused by malfunctioning oil burners that blow soot into the environment. This type of damage is referred to as “Puffback” and the residue could be either black or grey and any shape or size. Fuel and Oil smoke requires aggressive cleaning methods due to the oily soot, and deodorization takes a long time because oil and fuel has long lasting penetration effects.

Cleaning soot and smoke damage is a pain and should be left to the professionals to make sure it is cleaned carefully and correctly for health and safety purposes. SERVPRO technicians are trained to handle smoke and soot loss professionally with the highest grade of cleaning products. Call SERVPRO of Lynnwood at 425-774-1148 for assistance if you experience soot or smoke damage.

Helping Communities Prepare For The Unexpected

4/3/2020 (Permalink)

Most storm, fire, and water damage happens unexpectedly and emergencies can catch Washington residents unprepared. You’re smart to have an emergency supply bag or container already stocked with the basics you need should an emergency happen. When the New Yorker published an article in 2015 called ‘The Really Big One” many people began re-evaluating their personal preparedness. We recommend the following preparedness supplies;

Emergency survival kit

• Store a kit at home, at work and at each child’s school or daycare facility.
• Dry or canned food and drinking water for each person
• Can opener
• First aid supplies and first aid book
• Copies of important documents such as birth certificates, licenses, and insurance policies
• "Special needs" items for family members such as infant formula, eyeglasses and medications
• A change of clothing
• Sleeping bag or blanket
• Battery powered radio or television
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• Whistle
• Waterproof matches
• Toys, books, puzzles, games
• Extra house keys and car keys
• List of contact names and phone numbers
• Food, water and supplies for pets

Additional items you can store at home for use during an emergency

• Cooking supplies
• Barbecue, camp stove
• Fuel for cooking, such as charcoal or camp stove fuel
• Plastic knives, forks, spoons
• Paper plates and cups
• Paper towels
• Heavy-duty aluminum foil

Sanitation supplies

• Large plastic trash bags for trash, water protection
• Large trash cans
• Bar soap and liquid detergent
• Shampoo
• Toothpaste and toothbrushes
• Feminine and infant supplies
• Toilet paper
• Household bleach with no additives, and eyedropper (for purifying drinking water)
• Newspaper — to wrap garbage and waste

Comfort

• Sturdy shoes
• Gloves for clearing debris
• Tent

Tools

• Ax, shovel, broom
• Crescent wrench for turning off gas
• Screwdriver, pliers, hammer
• Coil of one-half inch rope
• Plastic tape and sheeting
• Knife or razor blades
• Garden hose for siphoning and fire fighting

Need Cleanup? -- Call SERVPRO of Lynnwood (425-774-1148)

Is There Mold In Your Crawlspace?

4/1/2020 (Permalink)

Make sure to have your crawlspace inspected on an annual basis to check for possible signs of microbial growth.

Do you have problems with moisture in your crawlspace? Has a water leak caused mold, mildew or wood rot?

Crawl spaces are prone to mold growth due to the high levels of moisture and humidity in these areas. Some of the most common causes of increased levels of humidity in the crawl space include water leaks, damaged insulation, and inadequate ventilation. To get rid of a mold problem in the crawl space, you have to control the moisture and humidity levels. Review our tips for how to prevent mold issues:

• Check for water leaks in the foundation walls and crawl space ceiling — make sure there are no cracks that allow water to leak inside the crawl space. While checking for cracks, be sure to also inspect the HVAC ducts and plumbing components for leaks.
• Ensure that the gutters and downspouts direct water away from your home’s foundation. Water that flows toward your house could enter your crawl space and basement.
• Make sure your crawl space is properly ventilated — for every 150 square feet of crawl space area, there should be 1 square foot of ventilation. However, consult a professional to determine if you should keep the crawl space vents closed and, if so, find other ways to control the humidity in the crawl space.
• Use plastic sheeting covers to insulate/encapsulate the crawl space floor and foundation walls. Vapor barriers like plastic sheeting covers trap the moisture that is evaporating from the soil and walls.
• If your crawl space is already insulated, inspect the insulation once or twice a year. Make sure the insulation is not missing or sagging, which indicates that there could be a water problem.
• Make sure dryer vents always discharge to the outside and not into the crawl space, attic or other area of the house. If they don’t, this can lead to a major increase in humidity. If you have a mold problem in your home or business, consider the following facts:
• Call SERVPRO of Lynnwood at 425-774-1148. Our trained and certified mold remediation technicians can diagnose your crawlspace moisture problem and get your crawlspace dried out in no time. Our technicians will remove any wet insulation in your crawlspace, treat the mold and mildew with an anti-microbial solution, dry the wet floor joists or subfloor, and remove and reset the vapor barrier so that you have no more problems of moisture damaging your home environment.
• Significant mold growth can occur in 48-72 hours.
• Mold may present a greater risk to children, the elderly, and anyone with respiratory problems.
• A strong, musty odor may indicate hidden mold behind drywall or under carpeting.
• What to Do:
• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact SERVPRO of Lynnwood for mold remediation services; 425-774-1148
• Don’t touch or disturb the mold.
• Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.

SERVPRO of Lynnwood Supports EASC

3/25/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Lynnwood is proud to be involved in the local community through a variety of ways. Our team has been a member of EASC (Economic Alliance of Snohomish County) since it was founded.

In 2011, the Economic Development Council of Snohomish County, the Everett Chamber of Commerce, and the South Snohomish County Chamber of Commerce merged to create Economic Alliance Snohomish County. These three organizations wanted to strengthen efforts to create economic vitality for Snohomish County. As a chamber of commerce, they provide networking events, offer business resources and organize high level signature events that convene the county’s leadership for key updates and high-level conversations.

Economic Alliance Snohomish County is a non-profit serving as a combined economic development organization and countywide chamber of commerce. Economic Alliance Snohomish County is a catalyst for economic vitality resulting in stronger communities, increased job creation, expanded educational opportunities, and improved infrastructure. Not only is our membership a great networking tool to connect with local business, it affords us the opportunity to support business owners and non-profits.

We are proud to support our community by participating in and sponsoring annual events throughout the years organized by EASC such as trade shows, fundraisers, annual networking and ‘state of the city announcements’. SERVPRO of Lynnwood will continue our support of EASC (Economic Alliance of Snohomish County) to foster educational development, to network with local business owners and demonstrate our compassion for community growth and excellence. SERVPRO of Lynnwood looks forward to continuing our support and involvement for many more years.

CPR Training at SERVPRO of Lynnwood

3/25/2020 (Permalink)

As emergency responders SERVPRO of Lynnwood experiences daily the importance of a rapid and efficient response. Life can change in a matter of minutes which is why we know the best way to expect the unexpected is to be prepared. What better way to celebrate preparedness than to certify our employees in CPR and First Aid training?

We teamed up with one of our favorite associations; PHCCWA (Plumbing Heating and Cooling Contractors of Washington) to host a CRP and First Aid class at our facility in Lynnwood. Many of our association members and our team members attended to renew their certifications.

We think CRP and First Aid training is important in the work place for many reasons;

• Having trained employees can make a substantial difference in your ability to maintain a safe work environment. They will be able to respond more quickly and effectively when medical emergencies occur.
• This training and knowledge provides a sense of security and promotes a more confident work environment.
• As staff becomes more prepared and responsive – they also become more aware of their surroundings and more likely to spot potential hazards. This inspires a ‘safety culture’.
• 25% of all emergency room visits can be avoided with basic first aid and CPR certification.
• Safety precautions and preparedness applies to ANY industry of ANY size.

There are many local resources that can help you get CPR and First Aid Certified such as The Red Cross or local Snohomish County fire departments. Call SERVPRO of Lynnwood to speak to one of our Marketing Specialists in order to learn more about how you can be personally prepared; 425-774-1148.

SERVPRO of Lynnwood Disinfects Commercial Buildings During Coronavirus Concerns

3/24/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Lynnwood for decontamination concerns and questions; 425-774-1148.

SERVPRO of Lynnwood professionals are here to help the local community and are trained in adhering to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. If you have an office, restaurant or retail store that has a confirmed case of coronavirus we are Here to Help® get your building back to normal.

SERVPRO is being called on by numerous businesses and community leaders to perform the necessary bioremediation services to clean, disinfect and sanitize their properties. All our cleanup practices are in accordance with the guidelines provided by the CDC and local authorities. If you are interested in inquiring about our services we are here to help – 24 hours a day, seven days a week, while life gets back to normal in the communities we all call home.

The CDC recommends usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar pathogens to the coronavirus. Multiple products in the SERVPRO product line meet this standard and carry the EPA-registered emerging pathogens claims.

Our SERVPRO of Lynnwood team can respond quickly and effectively to help minimize business interruption. We are uniquely prepared during this unprecedented time to clean and disinfect your home or business according to the protocols set forth by the CDC. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that a regular janitorial staff would perform. The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets, and tables at a minimum. These same surfaces are mentioned in the CDC’s  guidance for commercial spaces.

SERVPRO of Lynnwood continues to help our communities and we encourage you to stay positive, safe and healthy during this difficult time. Please call us if you need assistance or if you have questions about decontamination at 425-774-1148.

Influenza Safety Precautions

2/11/2020 (Permalink)

Influenza and Flu-season is upon us and it is important to take proper precautions to stay as safe and healthy as possible. 

Headlines around the world are focused on the recent virus outbreaks and many countries across the world are feeling the effects of this viral scare. Viruses can cause illness ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases such as Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome. As of February 6, 2020, there are thousands of confirmed viral cases worldwide that have been reported in nearly 100 different countries. It is difficult to provide an accurate number since the numbers are constantly changing as the CDC updates the public.  

Keep your family, friends and co-workers safe. You can help prevent yourself from spreading viruses, germs and other respiratory illnesses by following these steps:

Precautionary Measures Include;

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds. (Handwashing: Clean Hands Save Lives) Use 70% alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
• Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact such as kissing, hugging, and sharing cups or eating utensils with people who are sick.
• Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or shirt sleeve, not your hands.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces, such as toys and doorknobs, especially if someone is sick.
• Stay home when you are sick and inform the people around you if you are feeling sick. 
• Report any symptoms to a healthcare professional; they may advise you to receive testing. 

If you have questions please call SERVPRO of Lynnwood at 425-774-1148. Our team is proud to assist with community preparedness and in supporting our first responders. 

How to protect Your Home from Hail Damage

2/5/2020 (Permalink)

When rain and freezing temperatures mix we are at risk for hail damage. Hail is large, layered ice particles, often spherical in shape, which are produced by thunderstorms having strong, tilted updrafts. Hailstorms form within a unusually unstable air mass, that is, an air mass in which the temperature falloff with height is much greater than normal.

Ensure roof is in good condition: Inspect your roof to repair any wear and tear as preventative maintenance.

Replace the roof when necessary: If it’s time to replace the roof, make an informed decision and select a replacement shingle by reviewing the latest impact rating results by the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety.

Choose steep-sloped roofs: If possible, select a home with a steep-sloped roof, as low-sloped and flat roofs suffer more severe hail damage.

Select impact-rated skylights: Select impact-rated skylights that meet FM Approval Standard.

Select fiber-cement siding: Select fiber-cement siding where aluminum or vinyl siding would otherwise be used because it is more resilient to hail.

Close drapes, blinds, or window shades: Close drapes, blinds, or window shades during a severe hailstorm to keep wind from blowing broken glass inside.

Hail can damage roof coverings and shorten the life of a roof. Hail can also cause damage to siding, windows, fences, lawn furniture, vehicles and other property. Select a reputable, bonded and insured contractors for installation. Members of the National Roof Contractors Association (NRCA) are usually a good choice as they are normally up-to-date on the latest issues and product requirements. Some roofing manufacturers also have training and certification programs for contractors who install their products.

Always rely on a reputable company; especially for emergency services. Call SERVPRO of Lynnwood if you think you have a leaking roof, skylight or window frame due to heavy rain and hail. We are always here to help at 425-774-1148.

How To Inspect and Maintain Your Commercial Roof From Water Intrusion

2/5/2020 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO of Lynnwood we see hundreds of leaking roofs a year. This is especially common in commercial buildings due to the style of the roof and amenities on top. Flat-top roofs are at higher risk for leaks. It is very important to inspect and maintain roof systems to prevent any water intrusion. If you do have a water intrusion issue don’t hesitate to call SERVPRO of Lynnwood at 425-774-1148. Follow these inspection and maintenance recommendations to prolong the life of your commercial roof.

 Maintain roof covers

• Remove debris and inspect for loose or missing materials regularly, and after any roof contractor does work on the roof.
• If bubbling or peeling is noticeable, consider replacing the roof cover.

 Maintain roof drainage systems

• Inspect and clean the roof drainage system at least twice a year. If there is a history of clogs from tree leaves, inspect more frequently.
• Check for and repair cracks around roof drains.

 Check for and repair loose perimeter flashing

• Check for and address any loose or missing pieces of flashing. Loose or ill-fitted flashing can cause roof cover failure and water intrusion during high-wind events.
• Also inspect for loose flashing around roof-mounted equipment, curbs, and roof hatches. Loose flashing around these areas leads to potential failure of the unit’s structure and water intrusion.
• Be sure to regularly inspect flashing for any issues before and after storms.

 Inspect skylights

• Inspect skylights for cracks, leaks, and security. Address any rotting wood in the curb.

Check roof hatches

• Check roof hatches for any loose materials or screws, and make sure the roof hatch is closed and locked when not in use.

 Check satellite dishes

• Make sure all satellite dishes are secured tightly to the roof structure.

Inspect AC units

• Regularly inspect and maintain roof-mounted AC units, making sure metal panels and the unit are secured.

Storm Clean-Up Precautions

2/4/2020 (Permalink)

As Florida and surrounding states continue to recover from Hurricane Irma, we want you to know SERVPRO of Lynnwood is always here to help with local storm damage in commercial properties. We realize that in an unprecedented situation like this, in a business it may require all-hands-on-deck from you and your employees to help with clean up and rebuilding efforts. While it may be necessary for your employees to pitch in and get your business operational again – regardless of whether they are helping while on the clock or after hours – there are certain precautions you should take to prevent them from getting injured or sick. 

If your business sustained extensive damage, the cleanup is usually best left to trained professionals who will make sure the work is completed safely and meets required building codes. If any of the following damage is present in your building, do not attempt cleanup without first consulting an expert.

• Contaminated Floodwaters. The floodwaters left in the aftermath of Hurricane Irma are contaminated with sewage and have unusually high amounts of coliform and E. Coli, which can cause respiratory issues, intestinal problems and infections.  
• Downed Power Lines. Assume all power lines are live, and make sure to stay at least 10 feet away from them. Only trained utility workers or electricians should repair damaged power sources. 
• Debris Removal. Water-soaked, contaminated materials should only be removed by trained workers with proper personal protective equipment such as a hard hat, a hazmat suit, steel-toed boots and eye and face protection.  

Even if the damage your business sustained is less-extensive, there are still precautions you and your employees should take. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has a helpful fact sheet that details potential hazards and preventive measures that can help keep your employees safe during disaster clean up and recovery. Some of the tips they recommend include:

• Provide appropriate personal protective equipment
• Prevent people from performing tasks they do not have the training, experience or physical ability to handle
• Be particularly mindful of wet, slippery, uneven or elevated surfaces that could lead to an employee getting hurt from a slip, trip or fall – the most common causes of employee injuries
• Be careful using portable generators – and always make sure they are properly ventilated – to prevent electrical fires, shocks or electrocutions, or harm from toxic carbon monoxide exposure

If your business has experienced a storm event please contact SERVPRO of Lynnwood at 425-774-1148 for assistance. We are here to help!

Extreme Winter Temperatures in 2020

2/4/2020 (Permalink)

Winter is in store for much of the United States this year and nothing keeps SERVPRO of Lynnwood more busy than extreme weather patterns. Locally, we have already seen snowfall in 2020 leaving us with many cases of frozen pipes and flooded properties.

The 2020 Farmers' Almanac predicts "yet another freezing, frigid and frosty winter for two-thirds of the country," with the worst conditions forecast for areas east of the Rockies all the way to the Appalachians. The almanac anticipates a cold, wintry mix in the Northeast and New England regions of the U.S. with a frosty and wet forecast for the mid-Atlantic.

The Midwest should expect frozen and snowy weather while California, Arizona and Nevada will see cool weather with normal precipitation.

The most frigid temperatures will take hold from the northern Plains to the Great Lakes region. Residents in cities from Washington, D.C., to Boston will experience colder-than-usual weather, and above-normal precipitation will fall on the eastern third of the U.S., as well as the Midwest and Great Plains and Great Lakes regions.

With colder-than-normal temperatures in the Northeast and above-normal precipitation expected we will see a good amount of snow, but also a wintry mix of rain and sleet up along the coast. The harshest weather is expected currently- the first week of February- stay warm out there and remember to prepare your properties for wet and cool temperatures.

If you experience an emergency situation in your commercial space or residential home don’t hesitate to call SERVPRO of Lynnwood at 425-774-1148 for immediate assistance.

Preparing for the 2020 Winter Freeze

2/4/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Lynnwood is here to help educate you on how to prevent or minimize emergency situations. Do not hesitate to prepare your home and business for the upcoming freezing weather in order to prevent water damage. DisasterSafety.org offers ideas on how you can reduce your risk of flooding in and around buildings.

Observe the following tips to become more prepared;

Check your plumbing and appliances. Plumbing supply lines should be inspected on a yearly basis. Refrigerators and freezers should have their hose lines inspected for damage. Washing machines, water heaters, and toilets should also be inspected about every six months. Shower stalls should have the pans inspected bi-annually and grout and tiles should be replaced if cracked or loose. Also make sure to inspect your sump pump.

In your building’s interior, there are many things that can help make sure you stay dry. Check windows, doors, drywall, and air conditioners for leaks. Also check for termite damage and ensure the humidity level in your home is between 30%-50%. It is a good idea, too, to have flood shields or barriers installed in basements depending on the location of your property.

Outside of a building, many things can be done to help ensure a dry building interior. Landscaping is a large part of this. Check the exterior siding and walls to ensure they are properly sealed and that natural, landscaping materials are not up against the building. Make sure the irrigation system is not sending too much water to the foundation of the building. Landscaping is also important in preventing water damage to a building or home. Make sure trees are properly trimmed and vines are not growing on the outside of the building. Have your roof inspected annually to see if any repairs need to be made.

If your home suffers any damage as a result of freezing temperatures call our trusted team at SERVPRO of Lynnwood, 425-774-1148. Acting fast will help minimize the expense and time needed to help ensure a faster recovery.

Reflecting on 2019 Growth and Changes for the SERVPRO Brand

1/3/2020 (Permalink)

What new and exciting things will be coming in 2020?

This past year SERVPRO celebrated 50 years of service at our annual convention in Sacramento, CA; where it all started. Our convention updates revealed some exciting news; that we would become part of a larger picture to promote growth and success. Over the years our corporate team has built an incredibly solid foundation, and the team is ready to start the next chapter of SERVPRO History! This past year SERVPRO announced it would be become part of Blackstone’s private equity portfolio to maximize value-add and industry relations. SERVPRO grew monumentally last year and has exceed growth every year for the past 30 years; yielding a total of 2.4 billion dollars in 2019.

Blackstone Investment was based on several truths;

• SERVPRO is a market leading platform in a large and highly fragmented recession-resistant industry
• We have demonstrated long-term organic growth with resilience through economic cycles
• We have an attractive asset-light financial profile with predictable royalty revenues, high contribution margins and low capital requirements
• Our healthy franchise system retains tenured operators and strong franchise economics
• The future holds numerous compelling growth opportunities
• We hold a highly experienced management team with a strong track record of delivering proven results

 The SERVPRO brand has created a “One Team” Initiative which SERVPRO of Lynnwood is proud to stand by. Looking into 2020 we work toward growth and development while standing by the following mantra;

“Align our Focus and Improve Results on our Mutually Critical Outcomes:

The Customer Service Experience, Revenue and Profit Growth, and Management and Staff Development.”

Follow SERVPRO of Lynnwood on our journey to growth in 2020 as we work with Blackstone to build our brand in new and exiting ways!

Are Your Pipes Prepared For Winter Weather?

11/20/2019 (Permalink)

Have you ever noticed how a can of soda explodes in the freezer if left for too long? This is because water expands when it freezes quickly. The same happens in pipes full of water during cold weather. Expanding cold water places too much pressure within the pipe and causes it to burst. The following tips will help prevent this disaster from happening in your residence or business;

If your pipes aren’t insulated; get creative about protecting them until you can get pipe insulation from the grocery store. When the temperatures are going to dip use newspapers and plastic grocery bags as a quick fix. Wrap the newspaper around vulnerable pipes, secure the paper with strong tape and cover the newspaper with plastic bags. Keep in mind this is a temporary fix! It is important to insulate your pipes period. Heat tape and pipe insulation are important. When you can make it to the hardware store, purchase heat tape and pipe insulation. Place the heat tape around the most vulnerable pipes and cover them with insulation.

Let water flow steadily. One of the best ways to prevent water from freezing within pipes is by letting the water continuously flow. Surprisingly, running water does not freeze. Allow a trickle of water that is the same diameter as a pen to flow from a faucet to prevent bursting pipes. Although this method seems wasteful, there are creative ways to capture and use the water. For example, use the water to hydrate indoor plants or place the water in a rain barrel for summertime garden watering. Keep in mind that the cost of continuously running water is ultimately cheaper than having to repair pipes, damaged walls, floors and ceilings.

No matter the type of building, a burst pipe can prove to be costly and devastating. Take proper precautions and call SERVPRO of Lynnwood if you have a water issue at 425-774-1148.

The Dangers of Snow and Ice Accumulation in Freezing Temperatures

11/20/2019 (Permalink)

Extreme winter weather can cause more problems than just slick roads and slippery sidewalks. When snow and ice accumulate, it can become heavy and cause building damage, water damage or both.

Snow and ice can collapse roofs, especially on older buildings. Older buildings have a greater risk of corrosion, which can weaken its structural integrity and allow for intrusions. Newer buildings that have roofs made of light-weight metal, roofs that are flat, or roofs that do not have a lot of supports are more likely to give-in under the pressure of excess snow and ice.

Snow drifts on a flat roof that have projections, a lower roof, or other equipment can accumulate snow that has drifted with the wind. This can cause vulnerability unless additional strengthening supports are added. You should contact a licensed professional about safely removing excess snow and ice from a roof as these can become risky situations.

To help keep ice of roofs that are sloped, make sure attics are well ventilated so the snow on the roof does not melt and turn to ice. Melted snow and ice can enter a roof via the eaves and flat roofs can experience water damage if ice dams form and prevent water from flowing into drains on a roof.

Improperly sealed windows can be affected by built up snow as well. Ensure that basement drains, window wells, outside walls, and gutters are clear from clogging; 10-12 inches of fresh snow or 3-5 inches of old or packed snow equal 1 inch of water and 5 lbs. of pressure for every square foot.

If you have a snow, ice or water issue call the professionals at SERVPRO of Lynnwood; 425-774-1148.

Make A Profit and Most Importantly A Difference

6/19/2019 (Permalink)

Many people think that monetary rewards are what define a successful business, however, is this really true?

Most people start businesses with the goal of turning a profit, becoming rich, and making sure the shareholders are always happy. At SERVPRO of Lynnwood we think a successful difference is more than turning a profit. SERVPRO thinks that a successful business is defined by helping people in their time of need. SERVPRO is a successful business because we strive to make a difference and make lives better. People often call us heroes when we show up fast, keep them up to date and solve their problems.

SERVPRO is the premier cleaning and restoration company in the world; we have achieved this by hard work and caring about people. SERVPRO makes sure the customer is heard, we know what matters to them, and we make sure they understand the process of what we’re doing. During cleaning and restoration, it can be stressful for the client. We understand their stress and make sure that they are involved in the process and nothing is hidden from them. SERVPRO provides 24 hour a day emergency service which is no easy feat. Our team often answers calls in the middle of the night and on holidays simply because we want to help all customers any time of the day or night with their emergencies. Our business model is to make sure that we keep our customers in mind and never focus on solely profit, but the people. We believe success will come by focusing on customers, clients and employees. Count on our trusted team in your time of need; call SERVPRO of Lynnwood at 425-774-1148.

Unwanted Spores: Understanding Mold Growth in Your Home

3/27/2019 (Permalink)

The air in your home is full of different substances, and there are always continuous spores floating around. While they normally have no harmful effects on your building, the right conditions could allow them to take hold and create dangerous black mold buildup.

If a moisture problem or other circumstance occurs in your Lynnwood, WA house, it’s important to get help from a licensed mold cleanup service as soon as possible. Here’s everything you need to know about this potential household hazard;

Favorable Conditions for growth  are like any other living thing, mold needs the right environment to flourish, and there are a few areas of your house where these circumstances are more likely. Go through your home and make a note if you notice the following: Indoor humidity levels above 50 percent

Water leaks

Lack of sunlight

Stagnant air

Permeable surfaces such as newspaper and blankets

You can prevent some of the favorable conditions for mold on your own by opening window shades, operating fans and installing dehumidifiers, others might require intervention by experts such as basement waterproofing contractors.

Your goal should be a space with plenty of moving air and low humidity levels. Common Types of Household Mold Molds come in every color of the rainbow, but there are only a few that normally grow in homes. Here’s a brief overview and how to identify them:

Penicillium is a green or blue growth usually found in areas damaged by water.

Cladosporium is quite common and usually manifests as black or green dots in fabric and carpets.

Stachybotrys chartarum, which is commonly referred to as black mold, forms in areas that are constantly wet, such as air conditioning ducts and around leaky pipes.

It’s important to understand many species look alike, so contact a remediation specialist if you suspect growth in your home. Once black mold and other growths take hold, it can be difficult to contain their progress, which is why you should take action as soon as possible. Visit http://www.SERVPROlynnwood.com for more information on mold.

5 Tips For How To Handle Mold Remediation

3/27/2019 (Permalink)

Mold has had its fair share of controversy and sensationalism over the past few years. Despite the media frenzy quieting down, mold in home is still a significant and important issue for most homeowners. An increase in consumer complaints has resulted in homeowners engaging in mold remediation and cleanup process. A property owner's goal is to retain consumer confidence in home quality, safety standards, and home durability. In regards to mold in a home, there are two important factors to remember. First, you can prevent mold damage from your home by immediately addressing any of its manifestation. Second, use the proper protocol for mold mitigation. As a property owner should have a trusted team ready to respond if any issues arise.  Below is a recap of five tips to help you create an effective mold removal plan.

Tip # 1: Understand Moisture’s Role in Mold Formation.

Evaluating mold in home infestation involves more than a visible check for mold growth behind wall, flooring, or in corners. For that reason, any commercial mold damage assessment requires analytical approaches. Understand that the presence of free moisture affects mold growth significantly. Secondly, familiarize yourself with how moisture originates and gets into your home. As a homeowner you must determine the sources of moisture in your property and use its presence to locate mold growth; SERVPRO of Lynnwood specializes in providing these services at competitive prices.

Tip # 2: Create an Appropriate Remediation Plan and Documentation.

Document your mold situation in writing, video, or photography. Documentation assists cleanup experts to develop an appropriate mitigation strategy. Details of the plan include what renovations or repairs are scheduled, necessary evaluation tests, or tenant relocation during remediation. A mitigation plan helps you manage liability and identify mold growth trends.

Tip # 3: Identifying Mold Contamination Extent

As indicated before, growing mold in home can be deceptive, so it is necessary to determine the extent of contamination in your home. Determining your level of contamination influences the approach used in addressing mold damage within your home and lets you avoid exposing others to contamination.

Tip # 4: Mold Mitigation

Mitigating mold growth involves a combination of various methods inclusive of Level 1 and Level 2 remediation practices. Both levels comprise the following listed steps: Fixing leaking plumbing. This approach significantly reduces mold growth, black mold, fungus, mildew as well as using deodorization to eliminate smelly odor. Isolate contaminated areas; this entails closing all windows and doors on contaminated doorways, and other access conduits. These help to avoid the spread of black mold, fungus, mildew, dry rot, and mold spores to other locations within the home as well as reduces smelly odor.  Use misting and deodorization to reduce smelly odor caused by growing mold. Discard all mold-infected, black mold, fungus, mildew, dry rot, and other materials using appropriate disposal bags. Entrust the removal of contaminated material to a certified restoration company; such as the team at SERVPRO of Lynnwood. Ensure that you clean all wood surfaces and nonporous materials of any mold damage, dry rot, mildew, fungus, or black mold. Perform a visibility test. Inspect all infected areas of any visible contamination and mold debris, dry rot, black mold, fungus, mildew. 

Tip # 5: Evaluate the Mold Removal Plan The last step in this activity is determining whether the mold removal project achieved its objectives. Pay particular attention to any mold growth behind wall. You should implement a comprehensive mold mitigation strategy to avoid future issues.

Visit http://www.SERVPROlynnwood.com for more information on our services provided.

Water Damage Restoration Process

1/30/2019 (Permalink)

Water Damage Restoration: A Timely Topic

This year many households in the United States witnessed the devastating impacts of torrential downpours and flooding first hand. Water in business environments today often prompts managers to seek professional water cleanup and mitigation assistance by hiring a restoration company. These water damage specialists handle the messy moisture extraction and drying process efficiently. Many restoration firms even assist companies when water in business settings accompanies widespread flood damage within the immediate vicinity. What should you do when you encounter a flooded home?

To rapidly and efficiently resolve flood damage in residential settings, follow the example of many corporate risk managers and seek water cleanup, drying and mitigation assistance from a full-time restoration company. By taking charge of the water extraction and drying process as soon as possible after a natural disaster, a water damage restoration firm such as SERVPRO of Lynnwood may help minimize overall property losses.

A water damage restoration specialist has received comprehensive training in caring for commercial and residential property in the aftermath of flood damage. Our experts learn the best procedures to follow to perform water cleanup, moisture extraction and drying. Additionally, a restoration company will use professional-grade specialized equipment to expedite water removal from a flooded home or business. This equipment speeds the water extraction process.

An Illustration: Cleanup Involving a Pipe Break: Just consider the plight of people contending with water in their business or home following a flood which resulted in a supply line break. This type of pipe break in the past sometimes allowed water to gush through a neighborhood. (Fortunately, today water company personnel usually detect the rupture quickly and cut off the water flow.) Yet cleaning up the premises during an extended period without access to clean water can prove challenging indeed. Hiring a professional water damage mitigation firm to restore your residence helps enormously in this situation.

If you have sustained a flooded home this year, consider retaining the services of a water damage restoration specialist at SERVPRO of Lynnwood. Visit http://www.SERVPROlynnwood.com for more information on how we can assist you.

SERVPRO of Lynnwood: Experts in Frozen Pipes

1/29/2019 (Permalink)

Severe winter weather ranks third as a cause of insured catastrophic losses, after hurricanes and tornadoes, according to the Insurance Information Institute.  Losses from snow, ice, and freezing temperatures across the United States average over a billion dollars a year.

Preparing your home for cold weather can help avoid potentially costly problems, like frozen pipes.  When water freezes it expands.  That's why a can of soda explodes if you put it into a freezer to chill quickly and forget it.  When water freezes in a pipe, it expands the same way.  If the water expands enough, the pipe bursts, water escapes, and major damage can begin.

To Prevent Frozen Pipes from Occurring:

First and foremost, make sure your heating system is working properly and that vulnerable pipes, like those that run close to your exterior walls, are insulated. 

If you go away for several days in the winter, make sure you leave the heat on.  The Insurance Information Institute recommends setting your thermostat at 65 degrees.

Have someone check your home and property, if you can.  If you expect to be away for extended periods - say, you go South for the winter - have your water turned off.

Additional steps you can take to help prevent your pipes from freezing are:

• Seal air leaks surrounding or near your pipes
• Keep your garage doors closed if you have water supply lines in the garage.
• Disconnect all outdoor hoses and turn off water to exterior faucets and sprinkler systems.
• Open your kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing.
• Keep your heat at a minimum of 55 degrees at all times.  Keep it at 65 when you're out of town.
• During severe cold turn on both hot and cold faucets near outside walls to allow a small trickle of water to run during the night.
• Remove your outside hoses and store them inside during the winter.
• If you need to be away from home, consider draining your water system before you go.
• Identify the locations of shut-off valves so that you're prepared to stop the flow of water as soon as possible when a pipe bursts.

If a Pipe Bursts follow the proper procedures:

• Shut off water at the main valve. Your shut-off should be easily marked with a tag. Call SERVPRO of Edmonds, Lynnwood & Bellevue West if you would like one.
• If the break is in a hot water pipe, the valve on top of the water heater should be closed.
• Call a professional restoration expert such as SERVPRO of Edmonds, Lynnwood & Bellevue West to mitigate the damage. Keep an emergency number nearby for quick access!

Call us anytime with questions or concerns at 425-774-1148

Preparing for Holiday Travel? Tips To Keep Your Home Safe

11/23/2018 (Permalink)

Christmas and New Year’s holidays are quickly approaching. When leaving home for vacation, few people consider prepping their homes to prevent water damage. Most people go through a checklist of turning off or unplugging kitchen gadgets, but what happens if you have a leak and need a water pipe repair while you are away? A broken pipe can do a lot of damage, especially if it is left unattended for several days. 

Before leaving for an extended vacation, check your home for leaks. Examine the pipes under the sink and the water heater for any cracks or rust. Consider purchasing a water alarm that sends text alerts to your phone. Inspect the hoses that connect to any appliances. Insulate any exposed pipes, especially if you are leaving in the winter and expecting cold weather. A pipe that bursts due to freezing conditions requires repair immediately. Ask a neighbor, friend or family member if they can check in on your home periodically. If you must leave water on consider turning off the water main and drain the pipes. 

It is important to not only prep your home to prevent damage from a leak but also from a storm. Make sure your gutters are cleaned so water can flow freely through them. Check your sump pump to make sure it’s functioning properly; clear out any debris you see. Test it by filling the sump pit and turning on the pump. Check window seals and your roof for any leaks; this is especially important for areas that experience heavy rains or storms. . Returning from a vacation to find your house flooded can be devastating. A simple water pipe repair can escalate into a larger problem and can induce microbial growth. Take the time to prep your home against intruding water before you leave so that you can enjoy your vacation worry free. If you experience a problem make sure to call SERVPRO of Lynnwood at 425-774-1148 to help you mitigate any damage.

Will you be ready? How to be prepared for a disaster in Lynnwood, WA

8/24/2018 (Permalink)

Many of you may have heard- Lynnwood’s Health and Safety community Block Party is approaching on September 8th, 2018. This gives community members a chance to network with their first responders and collect information on how they can be better prepared. Tour fire trucks, ambulances, SWAT vehicles, see demonstration from Police K-9 and Motorcycle Units, disaster preparedness tips & skills, grease fire & fire extinguisher demos, fitness & exercise demos, and more.

In case you cannot make it to the Fair on 44^th review these tips to be better prepared;

Consider the following steps to help you and your family be better prepared for an emergency;

Register for local alerts and warnings, you can download various apps or check access for wireless emergency alerts

Develop and test your emergency communication plan- who is the first to contact and is everything in place?

Assemble or update your emergency supply kit, make sure nothing is expired or out of date

Learn about local hazards; what things are you in risk of experiencing?

Practice your emergency response drill

Collect and backup critical documents

Make a plan with your neighborhood to share resources

Document property/valuables and make sure you have proper insurance coverage

Make any property improvements that could reduce the risk of injury or damage during a disaster

If you have questions about preparing your property for a disaster contact your emergency preparedness professionals at SERVPRO of Lynnwood- 425-774-1148.

SERVPRO of Lynnwood Hosts NARPM® Clock Hour Class

2/19/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Lynnwood has been a long supporting member of King County NARPM^® since the chapter was founded. NARPM^® (National Association of Residential Property Management) is a premiere professional association designed for real estate professionals who know first-hand the unique challenges of managing single-family and small residential properties. They provide resources for residential property management professionals who desire to learn, grow and build relationships.

As a professional association NARPM^® offers several different designations. These designations are earned with a combination of property management experience, NARPM^® and industry education, service to the association through volunteer activities and clock-hour courses to maintain your license.

Designations Include;

Master Property Manager (MPM^®)

Residential Management Professional (RMP^®)

Certified Residential Management Company (CRMC^®)

Certified Support Specialist (CSS^®)

Certified Maintenance Coordinator (CMC^®)

Certified Residential Management Bookkeeper (CRMB^®)

Over the years SERVPRPO of Lynnwood has hosted several clock hour classes at our facility. We enjoy supporting the organization by allowing them to use our classroom and providing breakfast and lunch for attendees. In February of 2018 SERVPRO of Lynnwood hosted the class Intro to Maintenance: Covering the Basics of Standards, Codes & Safety taught by the instructor Fred Thompson, MPM^® RMP^®.

This courses touches on aspects of the Uniform Housing Code, habitability standards & local codes, policies of insurance companies and NARPM^®’s Standards of Professionalism. Participants will explore why it is important to know how buildings are put together and what to look at when taking properties into management.

Our SERVPRO of Lynnwood team enjoys supporting NARPM^® education and we look forward to hosting more events in the future.

SERVPRO of Lynnwood Supports Snohomish County Fire District 1: Commercial & Residential Preparedness

2/16/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Lynnwood has collaborated with My Edmonds News Network and Snohomish County Fire District 1 to bring disaster preparedness education to the community for residential and commercial property owners. We sponsor monthly videos that touch on a variety of safety topics from how to use fire extinguisher to administering CPR. Our team has also had the pleasure of attending several workshops hosted in the community that focus on safety processes.

Map Your Neighborhood

Neighborhoods that are prepared for disasters save lives, reduce the severity of injuries and trauma and reduce property damage. Another program offered is Map Your Neighborhood workshops which teach neighbors to rely on each other during the hours or days before fire, medical, police or utility responders arrive. Workshops are free to attend and are provide on a monthly basis at a variety of local fire stations in Snohomish County.

CERT Program

Snohomish County Fire District 1 has also instituted a CERT Program (Community Emergency Response Team). Following a major disaster, firefighters and other emergency service providers may not be able to meet the heavy demand for their services. People will have to rely on each other for help in order to meet their immediate lifesaving and life-sustaining needs. Community Emergency Response Team volunteers learn basic disaster preparedness skills so they can assist others during a disaster. As a CERT member you learn how to prepare yourself and your family to deal with disasters, how to put out small fires, basic disaster first aid and medical triage, conduct search and rescue operations and understanding the psychological effect of disasters. We are proud to say that we have supported and attended two CERT trainings.

For more information on how you can prepare yourself for the unexpected please contact SERVPRO of Lynnwood at 425-774-1148.

Celebrate Safely This Holiday Season with SERVPRO of Lynnwood’s Helpful Winter Tips

12/21/2016 (Permalink)

Happy Holidays From SERVPRO of Lynnwood!

Place Christmas trees, candles and other Holiday decorations at least 3 feet away from heat sources like fireplaces, portable heaters, radiators, heat vents and candles.

Make sure that light strings and other holiday decorations are in good condition. Do not use anything with frayed electrical cords and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Always unplug tree and holiday lights before leaving the property or going to bed.

Never use lit candles to decorate a tree. Always extinguish candles before leaving the room or going to bed.

Use only sturdy tree stands designed not to tip over. Keep curious pets and children away from Christmas trees.

Keep anything that can catch fire away from your stove top.

Inspect roofs, water pipes, gutters and drains to ensure they are in proper working condition. Clear them of any build up or debris that could lead to obstructions.

Install mats or non-slip surfaces and post caution signs where water or ice could be present.

SERVPRO of Lynnwood is here to help! 425-774-1148

Save the Date! Lynnwood’s Health and Safety Community Block Party!

8/18/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Edmonds, Lynnwood & Bellevue West is proud to be represented at this exciting community gathering!

The City of Lynnwood is planning a new event coming up on September 10^th called the Fair on 44th, which will be Lynnwood’s Health and Safety Community Block Party!

During the event, 44th Avenue West will be closed from Fire Station 15 on 188th Street Southwest to the Police Department on 194th Street Southwest. The event runs from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. and attendees will be invited to:

• Explore vehicles on-site for tours & pictures – Fire Trucks, Ambulances, Police & SWAT vehicles, Crime Stoppers Camaro, SNOCOM 911, National Guard Striker, Community Transit bus, Support Seven, Mary’s Towing Bubble and Seahawks Tow Trucks.
• Scale the National Guard’s rock climbing wall.
• Get a free health screening & health info including mammograms, flu shots, glucose testing, blood pressure checks and more.
• Enjoy lunch or a delicious snack at Big Dogs Food Truck or Cheese Wizards Food Truck.
• Shred your sensitive documents for free at the Access Shred Truck.
• See demonstrations from the LPD K-9 and Motorcycle Units, disaster preparedness tips & skills, LFD grease fire & fire extinguisher demos, HazMat demos and more.
• Test your skill in the kids bicycle rodeo and enter to win a free bike helmet.

Come visit SERVPRO of Edmonds, Lynnwood & Bellevue West at our booth next to the Fire Department for emergency supply and preparedness information, tips on how to act in an emergency, coloring books on fire safety and plenty of other SERVPRO swag! It is our goal to educate the community and help prepare residents for the unexpected.

Participate in many family & kids activities and bring home some free goodies & giveaways! We hope to see you there!

Do you have an emergency and need professional clean-up?- Call SERVPRO of Edmonds, Lynnwood and Bellevue West at 425-774-1148!

SERVPRO of Edmonds, Lynnwood & Bellevue West Participates in NARPM Fundraising

7/12/2016 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO of Edmonds, Lynnwood, and Bellevue West, we are committed to being involved in our community. On Thursday July 21^st, we will be attending a wonderful fundraiser hosted by the Greater Snohomish County chapter of the National Association of Residential Property Managers (NARPM). All proceeds will benefit the Snohomish County Boys and Girls Club!

We are so excited to support such a worthy cause. We will be donating a prize to be raffled off. We hope that this event will be a smashing success and raise plenty of money for the Boys and Girls Club so they can continue to do great work in our area.

We are pleased to be a valued vendor member of the NARPM. With a top-notch news magazine, annual convention and trade show, excellent educational opportunities, business building referrals, and mentorship programs, there is no shortage of amazing benefits to being a NARPM member.

Certification programs through NARPM also allow for the updating and refining of crucial skills. Members also enjoy access to discussion boards that allow members to keep in contact as well as share the various questions and concerns that come up with property management. For more information, please visit http://www.narpm.org/join/membership-benefits/.

As always, we at SERVPRO of Edmonds, Lynnwood & Bellevue West are available 24/7 for all of your cleanup needs. Please call usat(425)-774-1148.

Come Visit SERVPRO of Lynnwood at the Mill Creek Festival To Learn More About Water and Fire Damage Preparedness

7/6/2016 (Permalink)

You’re invited! We are excited to announce that we will be hosting a booth at the upcoming Mill Creek Festival. The Festival will be held this weekend, on July 9^th and 10^th. Stop by our booth to learn more about emergency preparedness.

We will have coloring books for the kids, emergency supply checklists, candy, and even a prize giveaway! Don’t miss out on this excellent chance to support the local community AND brush up on your emergency preparedness! We look forward to seeing you!

You can find more information about all the great activities planned for this weekend by visiting http://www.millcreekfestival.com/

As always, we are here to serve you 24/7. Need Cleanup? -- Call SERVPRO of  Lynnwood at (425)-774-1148.