If you have a fire or water emergency, please call us now at (800) 700-7378

To have the optimal experience while using this site, you will need to update your browser. You may want to try one of the following alternatives:

Fire & Water - Cleanup & Restoration

Archived Blog Posts

Why is my Commercial Roof Leaking?

3/18/2022 (Permalink)

Water stains on paneled ceiling There are many signs to look for if you suspect your roof is leaking.

The roof on a typical commercial building is typically flat, but quite effective at keeping your office dry and your business running. Regular roof maintenance can help prevent leaks or damage before they happen, however unexpected and sudden problems can and do arise all the time. Whether it is from installation mistakes, a storm, to simply materials degrading over time, you should make sure to know what to do should a leak happen to keep your business up and running.

Although the chances of a roof leak increase as time goes on, even a new roof can have problems. This can happen due to faulty installation, inadequate sealing, insufficient grading, and more. Keep in mind if the roof is relatively new property owners may be able to get it fixed/replaced under warranty. However, it is not always as simple as repairing the roof, if the problems were only noticed due to a leak then there would most likely need to be water restoration completed inside of the building as well. In that case, a professional remediation company would need to be called in to get your business back in working order.

Things to look for:

Moisture Stains -

Walls and ceiling tiles will quickly show discoloration when exposed to water.

Bubbling paint -

Moisture that seeps in between a wall and paint will cause bubbling or blistering in some paints.

Mold and Odor - 

Moisture in any environment can quickly cause mold growth which can lead to both visual signs and odors.

Water Puddles -

Finding unexpected puddles of water where they shouldn't be is never a good sign, and is likely from a leaky roof.

How to find the leak?

Quickly identifying and minimizing the source of a leak can help to keep damage from getting worse and therefore keep costs down. Remember when looking for the source, it may not always be directly above the dripping itself. Water can pool in areas on even a sloped roof and penetrate into the building. Some things to check, and/or look for are; seams, previous damage/patches, leaves and debris, gutters, and protrusions. There may be times when professionals should be called, we have tools that are able to moisture map and see signs of water that are invisible to the naked eye. 


If you find yourself facing a water problem at your place of business call SERVPRO of Downey for your disaster recovery needs. From Fire and  Water Damage to sanitization, we are there to assist you. Call us at: (562) 392-3007

COVID-19 & Commercial Ventilation (HVAC)

3/17/2022 (Permalink)

cdc image people in cafeteria and airflow Ventilation interventions can help reduce the number of infectious viral particles in the air.

What response has your commercial building taken to combat COVID-19? Sanitizing stations, increased cleaning protocols, mask-wearing, & physical distance is no doubt a few your building implemented. With most protocols lessening, is there a way to limit the risk of exposure in your commercial building?

HVAC & Commercial Ventilation

Here are some tips from the CDC to increase your building's ventilation.

The following tools identify ways to improve ventilation:

  • Increase the introduction of outdoor air:
    • Open outdoor air dampers beyond minimum settings to reduce or eliminate HVAC air recirculation. In mild weather, this will not affect thermal comfort or humidity. However, this may be difficult to do in cold, hot, or humid weather, and may require consultation with an experienced HVAC professional.
    • Open windows and doors, when weather conditions allow, to increase outdoor air flow. Do not open windows and doors if doing so poses a safety or health risk (e.g., risk of falling, triggering asthma symptoms) to occupants in the building. Even a slightly open window can introduce beneficial outdoor air.
  • Use fans to increase the effectiveness of open windows:
    • To safely achieve this, fan placement is important and will vary based on room configuration. Avoid placing fans in a way that could potentially cause contaminated air to flow directly from one person to another (see FAQ below on indoor use of fans). One helpful strategy is to use a window fan, placed safely and securely in a window, to exhaust room air to the outdoors. This will help draw outdoor air into the room via other open windows and doors without generating strong room air currents. Similar results can be established in larger facilities using other fan systems, such as gable fans and roof ventilators.
  • Ensure ventilation systems operate properly and provide acceptable indoor air quality for the current occupancy level for each space.
  • Rebalance or adjust HVAC systems to increase total airflow to occupied spaces when possible.
  • Turn off any demand-controlled ventilation (DCV) controls that reduce air supply based on occupancy or temperature during occupied hours. In homes and buildings where the HVAC fan operation can be controlled at the thermostat, set the fan to the “on” position instead of “auto,” which will operate the fan continuously, even when heating or air-conditioning is not required.
  • Improve central air filtration:
    • Increase air filtration to as high as possible without significantly reducing design airflow. Increased filtration efficiency is especially helpful when enhanced outdoor air delivery options are limited.
    • Make sure air filters are properly sized and within their recommended service life.
    • Inspect filter housing and racks to ensure appropriate filter fit and minimize air that flows around, instead of through, the filter.
  • Ensure restroom exhaust fans are functional and operating at full capacity when the building is occupied.
  • Inspect and maintain exhaust ventilation systems in areas such as kitchens, cooking areas, etc. Operate these systems any time these spaces are occupied. Operating them even when the specific space is not occupied will increase overall ventilation within the occupied building.
  • Use portable high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) fan/filtration systems to enhance air cleaning (especially in higher risk areas such as a nurse’s office or areas frequently inhabited by people with a higher likelihood of having COVID-19 and/or an increased risk of getting COVID-19). See the FAQ below on HEPA filters and portable HEPA air cleaners. (Note: Portable air cleaners that use filters less efficient that HEPA filters also exist and can contribute to room air cleaning. However, they should be clearly labeled as non-HEPA units.)
  • Generate clean-to-less-clean air movement by evaluating and repositioning as necessary, the supply louvers, exhaust air grilles, and/or damper settings. See the FAQ below on Directional Airflow. This recommendation is easier to accomplish when the supply and exhaust points are located in a ceiling grid system.
  • Use ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI) as a supplemental treatment to inactivate SARS-CoV-2 when options for increasing room ventilation and filtration are limited. Upper-room UVGI systems pdf icon[6.1 MB, 87 pages] can be used to provide air cleaning within occupied spaces, and in-duct UVGI systems can help enhance air cleaning inside central ventilation systems.
  • In non-residential settings, run the HVAC system at maximum outside airflow for 2 hours before and after the building is occupied.

[All information is provided by the CDC]

When a disaster strikes, SERVPRO® is here to help. Call SERVPRO® of Downey for your disaster recovery needs. From Fire and  Water Damage to sanitization, we are there to assist you. Call us at: (562) 392-3007

Digital Innovation for Restoration

3/14/2022 (Permalink)

matterport camera and dehumidifier How can technology benefit your company?

Digital tools are becoming increasingly advanced and more readily available for professional uses. How can technology benefit your company?

At SERVPRO® of Downey, we're constantly looking for ways to streamline innovation that can benefit us and our clientele. Here are a couple of ways SERVPRO® utilizes technology on losses.

Matterport 3D Technology

The Matterport 3D scanning system allows us to capture space and create a virtual 3D model.

  • Virtual Walkthroughs - The Matterport system allows us to share your space with insurance adjusters and property managers, allowing them to walk the job virtually as if they were there in person.
  • Insurance Claims - Having a 3D scan of your space could be useful during an insurance claim. It could show items & possessions that would need to be noted. If you already have a claim, it would be a useful tool to capture the loss.
  • Measurement Tool - During a loss, we want to provide the most accurate information. The Matterport system uses infrared sensors to capture data. This data can be measured within the system to provide the most accurate sketch & estimate.

DryMax Dehumidifier 

A dehumidifier is an essential part of a loss. These machines help control humidity and moisture in the air.

  • Compact & Portable - The new DryMax Dehumidifier is half the size of other popular dehumidifiers. This allows for easier placement and more machines on trucks.
  • Wireless Capability - Wireless technology allows the user to connect to the dehumidifier via iPad. The user can then track temperatures and moisture, without having to be onsite. This allows for easier management of jobs.

What Do These Advancements Mean for Your Business? 

It means faster service, quick data access, & an overall more streamlined experience. If you call SERVPRO® of Downey you know you'll be contacting a team focused on customer service and innovation.

When a disaster strikes, SERVPRO® is here to help. Call SERVPRO® of Downey for your disaster recovery needs. From Fire and  Water Damage to sanitization, we are there to assist you. Call us at: (562) 392-3007

Importance of Water Damage Prevention

3/4/2022 (Permalink)

leaking water pipe servpro logo Prevention is important! It might just save you from a water damage nightmare.

Water Damage usually happens when we least expect it, causing massive amounts of damage. A property owner's nightmare! But despite the sudden occurrence of water damage, preventative steps can be taken to help limit the damage.

Inspect Your Roof

A damaged roof can allow small leaks to go unnoticed until it's too late and damage has been done. Your roof is your first line of defense about rainfall and heavy storms. Check your roofs annually to ensure sealed protection.

Clean Your Gutters

Clogged & dirty gutters can backup onto your roof. This can cause wear and tear on your roof. Standing water can begin to seep into your roof and ultimately into your property.

Check Your Water Heater

Water heaters have certain lifespans, without proper maintenance a water heater can cause flooding. 

Check Your Pipes

Pipes under your sinks or behind your toilet will need to be tight and secure. Note any plumbing issues that might signify a water damage issue or leak.

Check Your Appliances

Washing machines, dishwashers, & refrigerators usually all produce water. These lines can easily leak under the appliance if moved or loosened for any reason. 

Prevention is important! These few steps may save you from a water damage nightmare and dealing with insurance. 

When a disaster strikes, SERVPRO® is there to clean up the mess. Call SERVPRO® of Downey, Montebello, Compton, Vernon for your disaster recovery needs. From Fire and  Water Damage to sanitization, we are there to assist you. Call us at: (562) 392-3007

Prevent Fires in 3 Steps

2/10/2022 (Permalink)

fire escape plan Detail your fire evacuation plan and practice it!

Prevent fires in your business with these 3 steps

As a business owner, you must plan to protect your employees and customers. Without proper preparation, a fire could have deadly consequences. Follow the three steps below and help protect and guide your employees in case of a fire.

1. Perform a Risk Assessment

Evaluate your property and check for any possible risks that may lead to a fire. This may include any open flames, old electrical wiring, or overloaded outlets. This first step is crucial in knowing what could go wrong.

2. Test Fire Protection Equipment

Fire Protection equipment includes Smoke Detectors and Fire Extinguishers. These items need to be tested and replaced occasionally. Note these items so they will always stay current. 

3. Create & Practice an Evacuation Plan

Have a floor plan for your facility. Mark the exit routes and have the plan visible for your employees. Practice the plan so everyone will be prepared in case of a Fire.


Take the time to prepare your facility for a Fire. Don't overlook these important safety tips!

SERVPRO® of Downey is here for all your Fire Restoration needs. Contact us 24/7 for emergency services at (562) 392-3007.

2021: The Highlights

1/31/2022 (Permalink)

In 2021, we endured various storms. Not all we're literal storms though, many figurative "storms". 

Let's take a look at the weather and climate of 2021 and see what we have overcome.

Wildfires - (Western Area)

Due to drought conditions and extreme heat Wildfires spread rampantly in the Western Region. The Dixie Fire alone consumed over 960,000 acres! Making it the second-largest wildfire on record for California. Other areas of notable wildfires include Montana, Arizona, Washington, and Idaho. Boulder County Colorado experienced the most destructive wildfire to date damaging more than 1,000 homes and businesses.

Flooding - (Hurricane Ida)

Hurricane Ida struck Louisiana in August 2021. With winds at 150mph, 100% of the homes in Grand Isle experienced some sort of damage and 40% were destroyed.

COVID-19 (World Wide)

As the COVID-19 virus seemed to have slowed, varients such as the Delta and Omicron sprung up causing another wave of sickness. For more information on the COVID-19 situation, please visit https://www.cdc.gov/ or https://www.who.int/

More disaster-related records were broken this year. Now more than ever, we need to be there for our communities to help us overcome challenges brought on by disasters such as Floods, Wildfires, Viruses, & Earthquakes. Let's welcome 2022! 

What You Need to Know About Your Insurance Policy and Water Damage.

1/20/2022 (Permalink)

Woman reading insurance policy Do you know what damage your policy covers and what it doesn't?

Should a pipe burst and send water gushing into your home, the good new is that it will almost certainly be covered by your homeowners insurance. While normally a covered peril there can, however, be some exceptions. The following are a few questions that you might have regarding your policy. 

1. What Damage is Covered by My Insurance?

If you experience water damage from a broken or or even just leaky pipe, the cost of any subsequent damage will likely be covered. Check your policy for specifics, if the flood is the result of a broken pipe caused by freezing weather or a sudden accident, this will usually be included in your policy. However, you often will be required to pay for any costs related to repairing and replacing the pipe. 

2. What Damage is Not Covered by My Insurance?

If the insurance company believes that the pipe has broken as a result of negligence, then you likely will be denied coverage. This could happen if you have failed to maintain your home or not taken proper precautions to prevent freezing pipes during cold weather, etc. You may also be denied if you wait too long to contact your insurance company and the damage has worsened in the meantime. 

3. What Should I Do When I Discover Damage?

To prevent your insurance company from denying your claim, you need to contact them as soon as you start to notice any damage. You also should hire a professional water damage remediation company to fix both the source of the problem and any of its lasting effects, whether that be water, mold, or any other type of damage. While you wait for us to arrive, you can begin documenting any damage and/or finding any ways to prevent water from spreading. 

While a flood in your home can cause a lot of worries, the claims process can go more smoothly if you take the appropriate actions. Performing regular maintenance on your home can prevent problems and will make it easier to be approved for coverage if an accident does happen.

Restoring Damage from Black Water in Your Home

12/27/2021 (Permalink)

Sewage pipe Black Water is not something you want to handle on your own. Make sure you call in professionals to ensure it is fully and safely dealt with.

When a flood takes place, our team of highly trained technicians examines the characteristics of the affected area to determine what category or how severe the water damage is. Category 3, or Black Water as its also known, is the worst and most damaging as this water is considered hazardous.

  • What is Black Water?

Black Water or Cat 3 Water is defined as commonly defined as water originating from sewage, but really is any water that harmful chemicals and/or bacteria. 

  • How do we restore damage from Black Water?

If your property is affected by black water, it is extremely important to let trained experts handle the restoration of the space. Because of the extremely contaminated nature of Cat 3, specific quarantine and safety protocols are used to ensure full sanitization and restoration of the affected area. 

When a disaster strikes, SERVPRO® is there to clean up the mess. Call SERVPRO® of Downey, Montebello, Compton, Vernon for your disaster recovery needs. From Fire and  Water Damage to sanitization, we are there to assist you. Call us at: (562) 392-3007

Sewage Backup Causes

12/13/2021 (Permalink)

Toilet overflow If your home or business experiences a sewage backup, call us to make it "Like it never even happened."

Sewage backups can be an extremely devastating event that can happen to just about any home or business. What are some of the causes of a sewage backup? There are three main reasons that you may experience a sewage backup: damaged sewer pipes, clogs, and tree roots in the sewer system. Let's take a deeper look at these areas. 

  • Clogs: 

Usually, if you only have a singular trouble area that experiences a backup, like a tub or a sink, then it is most likely a clog and can be fixed by cleaning the drain. However, if all drains in your home are backed up, then there is a blockage at the main that is causing the issue. Unless the blockage is removed, the overflow will continue and will cause extensive damage to your entire home or business area. 

  • Tree Roots: 

The roots of large trees in the proximity of a sewer line can often cause severe problems. They can grow into the pipes and cause holes and blockages or they may wrap around the sewer line and crush it. 

  • Damaged Sewer Lines: 

Older properties with older sewer lines that have not been upgraded can have broken or collapsed lines. All the pipes and sewers in older homes were built using cast iron and clay which can wear off with time, get rusty, and easily break down. Present-day plastic sewer lines cannot cause such problems simply because they don’t rust. 

Sewage backups are not only hazardous to your health, but they can cause a great amount of structural damage to your home. If you experience a sewage back up do not attempt to flush the toilet. Do not use harsh chemicals to attempt to clean out the drain. This can actually cause more damage and make things worse. Open your windows to let fresh air in. It is also very important to keep pets and children away from the affected area. However, the most important thing to do is to call for professional help. 

SERVPRO of Downey is here to help with all your water damage needs. We are open 24/7 365 days a year to help you get back to normal. Call us at (562) 392-3007

Wall Heater Fire Safety

12/10/2021 (Permalink)

wall heater servpro logo safety tips Is your wall heater not staying on or has a bad smell? It may need to be serviced.

Gas heaters need to be serviced every 2 years to ensure they are safe to use. This includes all types of heaters such as gas fireplaces, wall units, and space heaters.

This service is to be performed by a licensed Gasfitter, or someone who is certified to work with gas and knows the dangers of carbon monoxide. 

Gas Wall Heater Benefits:

  • Provides Fast & Efficient Heat
  • Temperture Control
  • Easy Installation & Maintenance
  • Saves Space

With the many benefits of using a gas wall heater, many safety risks need to be addressed.

Safety Tips for Gas Wall Heaters:

  • Ensure Proper Ventilation
  • Cover Exposed Flame
  • Use Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors
  • Clean Unit Annually

Gas wall heaters are great for keeping your property warm during the winter months. Use these tips to ensure your unit is working properly.

SERVPRO® of Downey is here for all your property maintenance tips. For more information regarding fire damage, call us at (562) 392-3007.

Creating an Emergency Action Plan for Your Company

12/3/2021 (Permalink)

clipboard with text that reads emergency action plan are you ready Does your company have an Emergency Action Plan ready in case of disaster?

There are Six Things that a company's emergency action plan must accomplish.

It is a good idea for businesses large and small to have a plan in place in the event that a disaster strikes. Normally, it is a physical document that helps to keep employees organized during an emergency. 

  1. Establish Reporting Procedures

There are the standard procedures, which include but are not limited to, dialing 911 or pulling a fire alarm. However, a company may wish to establish a system that is unique, and therefore better suited to its individual needs. One example of that would be a bank. They may have a button that is pushed during a robbery to silently notify the authorities. Your company may not need a silent alarm but rather something that could specifically relate to your line of work 

  1. Decide Exit Routes

An evacuation plan is made so that employees, should an emergency arise, know when, where, and how to evacuate. The plan should detail who can order an evacuation and explain the conditions in which they would. It should also feature exit maps or diagrams so that employees can follow escape routes easily. 

  1. Explain Emergency Procedures

In critical emergencies where equipment or tools must be used before moving forward with the contingency plan, all hazards must be explained. These hazards may include breaking glass or how to properly use fire extinguishers. 

  1. Ensure Employee Safety

A procedure to ensure that employees evacuate safely is necessary. Someone may need to be assigned the duty of checking offices and restrooms to make sure no one gets left behind in an emergency. This step could also be accomplished by implementing a simple roll call. 

  1. Maintain Contact Information for Employees

Keeping a record of employee names and phone numbers is useful during an emergency. Having this ahead of time will make it easier to locate them either during or immediately after, an emergency. 

  1. Know Whom To Call for Cleanup

It's also a good idea to have the contact information for commercial building restoration services on hand. Enlisting the help of professionals can help get your business back on its feet in a quick and stress-free manner. 

SERVPRO of Downey is here to help with all your emergency restoration needs. We are open 24/7 365 days a year to help you get back to normal. Call us at (562) 392-3007

Storm Damage | Prevent Roof Leaks

11/30/2021 (Permalink)

Maintenance is crucial for the longevity of your roof. Your roof is the first line of defence against elements of weather. What can you do if your roof is leaking? Inspecting it yourself can seem daunting, and hiring a roofer may be costly. Is there a simpler solution?

What to Do During a Storm:

If you catch a leak during a storm...

  1. Locate the Source of the Leak

If you don't have a leak detector, infrared camera, or infrared camera app, you can locate the source manually.

Leaks most commonly occur near roof protrusions such as chimneys, vents, plumbing, or anything protruding through your roofing material. Look closely for water staining. If it's currently raining you may be able to trace the drips.

    2. Prevent Further Damage

Once you've located the leak, take the necessary measures to prevent further damage. Use a bucket or pan to collect dripping water. If water is pooling in the ceiling, a small puncture will relieve the pressure and allow the water to drain.

Use roofing materials such as traps, sandbags, or boards to cover the leak and prevent water from entering home.

Prevent Future Leaks to Your Roof:

    1. Check the Attic

Common attic problems could be a direct culprit to your roof leaks. During your next roof inspection, don't forget to check the attic. Signs of Mold, Soaked insulation, Stains around Nails, or Clogged Intake Vents will be clear signs.

    2. Inspect, Inspect, Inspect!

Gutters, Shingles, and Protruding Parts can all lead to leaks. Clogged gutters can cause a water back up under your shingles or other roofing materials. Shingles need to be properly secured, and missing/broken shingles need to be replaced. As we learned earlier, protruding parts are the main culprits of roof leaks. Make sure the seals are tight so water can't leak through.


If you have questions regarding roof leaks, contact SERVPRO® of Downey. We're here to help with all flooding and roof leak needs. Call us at (562) 392-3007.

9 Reasons NOT to Use Bleach to Kill Mold

11/23/2021 (Permalink)

The use of Bleach as an all-purpose cleaning agent has been widely distributed by DIY blogs and even notable websites such as Huffington Post. This is especially true when it comes to cleaning Mold. 

The truth of the matter is that using chlorine bleach may cause more damage than good.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) as well as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), recommends NOT using bleach to kill mold. 

Here are 9 Reasons NOT to Use Bleach to Kill Mold:

1. Bleach introduces excess moisture on porous surfaces. A Bleach cleaning solution can contain up to 90% water. Chlorine quickly evaporates leaving the water that soaks into porous surfaces like wood. This encourages mold growth.

2. Bleach will not kill the roots or hyphae. On a porous surface, bleach will wipe away the visible mold, but will not penetrate the many roots caused by the mold.

3. The EPA and OSHA specifically advise against using bleach for mold remediation. High-level organizations focused on public health & safety set the standard for not using bleach as a mold cleaning agent.

4. Bleach is harmful and corrosive. Bleach will weaken wood and metal, breaking down the fibers and corroding metal. 

5. Bleach is an irritant. Bleach releases chlorine gas, causing damage to skin, eyes, lungs, and even clothing.

6. When mixed, bleach can be deadly. Mixing bleach with other cleaners or acids can release deadly gases that can kill if inhaled. 

7. Inactivation by Organic Matter. Bleach quickly loses its strength after being exposed to heat or light. Because of that, it doesn't prevent future microbial growth.

8. Most bleach products are not on the EPA Approved List of antimicrobial agents. This list features cleaning agents approved for commercial or residential use.

9. Approved antimicrobial alternatives are readily available. These agents are specifically designed to kill mold and prevent microbial growth. They tend to be cost-effective, safe, and easy to use.

Mold is not a DIY job. If you suspect mold at your Southern California commercial or residential property, SERVPRO® of Downey is works to remediate mold from the source. Call us, (562) 392-3007 

SERVPRO® of Downey, Montebello, Compton, Vernon are your Mold Professionals. Call us to schedule an appointment, (562) 392-3007

Flood Damage Due to Heavy Rains?

11/15/2021 (Permalink)

Flooded Home Should your building flood from a storm, call SERVPRO of Downey to help you get back to normal quickly and easily.

Our climate in SoCal is usually dry and comfortable. Sometimes, however, heavy rainstorms cause flooding from overflowing streams as well as from streets and storm drains that cannot handle the large amount of runoff. Homes and businesses flood, causing damage to contents and structures in local homes.

SERVPRO of Downey provides flood damage services for all of SoCal. We respond to almost all calls in less than two hours to help reduce damage and speed up the restoration process. Anything that remains exposed to high moisture levels for extended periods may become damaged beyond our restoration parameters, and may even begin to grow mold. 

Rain Storms and Flooding

Our roads and storm drains, while designed to handle large amounts of runoff, are sometimes not sufficient, and buildings get flooded. Those waters don't just bring moisture into your homes and businesses, but also bacteria and contaminants, which can be harmful.

Before entering a building after a flood, make sure you take precautions to protect yourself from electrocution and contamination that may exist. Our SERVPRO technicians can quickly assess the situation and immediately begin mitigation activity to minimize the amount of long-term damage.

When a disaster strikes, SERVPRO® is there to clean up the mess. Call SERVPRO® of Downey, Montebello, Compton, Vernon for your disaster recovery needs. From Fire to Water and Debris removal, we are there to assist you. Call us at: (562) 392-3007

Top 3 Causes for Commercial Fires

11/5/2021 (Permalink)

servpro commercial fire building risk mitigate Is your facility taking the proper safety precautions?

A commercial building needs to be prepared for whatever happens. A building generating business and revenue can't lack safety measures for its property. One of the top risks to mitigate is Fire Damage. Commercial Fires happen more often than the news may tell. Here are the Top 3 Causes for Commercial Fires.

1. Cooking Equipment

Cooking equipment = restaurants. High temperatures, grease, and oil make kitchen fires all too common.

If your property is a healthcare facility or any other facility with cooking equipment, is a fire extinguisher near? Remember, think safe & think smart.

2. Heating Equipment

Some commercial buildings require heating to operate effectively. Heating from mechanical equipment, furnaces, boilers, and radiators is at risk of overheating and starting a fire.

  • 14% of these fires take place in industrial or manufacturing properties.

3. Electrical & Lighting Equipment

Electrical wiring and lighting can be found in just about any and all buildings. Some wiring can be older or defective than others, causing overloaded circuits, loose connections, faulty fuses, imbalanced electrical loads, and many other electrical or lighting problems.

  • 12% of these fires take place in office properties.

Keep your commercial building safe. Regular inspections and maintenance help mitigate the risk of fire damage. The additional use of Fire Extinguishers and Fire Sprinklers keeps the risk low.

SERVPRO® of Downey are professionals in Cleaning, Restoration, & Construction. If a fire has impacted your building in any way, call us at (562) 392-3007.

Assist & Assess | Wildfire Cleanup

10/26/2021 (Permalink)

wildfire season 2021 Our highly skilled and trained crew will provide visual assessments and determine the best solution for your property clean-up.

Phase I: Inspection

Assisting in Wildfire Clean-up all starts with the inspection. If your property was near a wildfire, the possibility of Smoke Damage is high. Smoke particles can sometimes be clearly visible, other times a more thorough inspection must take place. We look for where smoke settles... baseboards, windowsills, shelves, mantels, door frames, and other locations. 

Extensive damage requires establishing what hazardous materials are present. All hazardous materials must be addressed and removed before Ash and Debris can be removed. 

Phase II: Cleaning & Removal

Smoke Damaged is addressed in three parts, 1) HEPA vacuum, 2) the wipe down, and 3) odor removal. 

A HEPA vacuum is used to collect loose particles. After all the surfaces are vacuumed, surfaces are wiped with a microfiber cloth. With the use of Microfiber Technology, affected surfaces are wiped down and cleaned. Microfiber Cleaning Cloths can collect particles at a .3 micron level, while smoke particles are commonly 1 micron in size. After the wipe down, the surfaces will be HEPA vacuumed once more to collect fallen particles. O-zone Machines & Hydroxyl Generators are specialty equipment that cleans the air, breaking down odor molecules.

For extensive wildfire clean-ups, after hazardous materials are removed, Ash and Debris can be discarded and the remaining structure can be cleaned. If reconstruction services are required, our Director of Construction is available to address your reconstruction needs.

SERVPRO® of Downey is Your Wildfire Clean-up Team!

You don't need to handle Wildfire clean-up on your own. For the safety of everyone around, professionals should be tasked to handle and dispose of hazardous materials and debris. SERVPRO® of Downey specializes in clean-up services, including Fire Clean-up.

Our highly skilled and trained crew will provide visual assessments and determine the best solution for your property clean-up.

Call SERVPRO® Of Downey to schedule an inspection of your property! (562) 392-3007

Does Your Home Smell, and How to Fix it

10/12/2021 (Permalink)

A couple holds their nose in their home Do you know the common odor generators in your home?

Sooner or later your house may start to smell. You may start to wonder, is it the trash, old food, or maybe the shrimp that fell behind the couch is a bigger problem than you thought it would be. No matter where the smell is coming from, here are some of the common culprits as well as some of the best DIY methods we could find for neutralizing them.

Common Problem Areas

  • Kitchen

Here you may find odors lurking in the trash or fridge. Other common areas include the garbage disposal and the vent hood above your stove or oven.

  • Bathroom

In the bathroom smells and odors are lurking around almost every corner. Whether it comes from a dry P-Trap to the toilet or sink, stink is everywhere.

  • Laundry Room

Although this is where things go to get cleaned, there can still be a plethora of smells found here. Be it dirty laundry or a mildew filled washer 

  • Bedroom

Here smells may come from dirty laundry, trash cans, and more. One place many may not expect is bedsheets. They can harbor dead skin and bacteria.

  • Pets

Your pets probably love to rummage through planters and trash cans, exploring all they can. That however means that they also bring those smells inside.

How To Deodorize Your Home

Simply put baking soda and vinegar (separately, of course, we don't want a 6th-grade science experiment on our hands) can work wonders on not just covering up but neutralizing odors. For a simple way to deodorize your whole home simply simmer a cup (or more) of vinegar! Once the vinegar smell fades so will the rest of the odors that came before it. Similarly, if a room has a musty or damp smell, like a laundry room or garage, place a bowl full of baking soda or kitty litter inside. Both will help to absorb and trap nasty odors, however, it's recommended to make sure those areas are well ventilated and dry so smell never comes around in the first place. For your pets, one of the biggest problems can be their beds or toys. Spraying with a 1 to 1 dilution of vinegar can really work wonders, or simply replacing old bedding after a certain time.  

If you are in need of a more heavy-duty deodorization, the specialists at SERVPRO® of Downey, Montebello, Compton, Vernon are here for you at (562) 392-3007. We’ll make it "Like it never even happened."

Why Microfiber is the Superior Cleaning Technology

10/4/2021 (Permalink)

microfiber difference between cotton and and microfiber strand Microfiber collects more dirt, debris, & bacteria than typical cotton rags.

How does your facility clean? It has been said that the most significant product to the cleaning industry in recent years is Microfiber Technology. To the untrained eye, Microfiber Cloths may look like any other cloth, however, their composition is much different. How so?

What is Microfiber?

Microfiber is a synthetic blend made up of Polyester & Nylon fibers 1/16th thickness of a single human hair. These strands curl, so they collect and hold dirt, debris, and bacteria to a micron level. That is the technology that makes Microfiber so effective.

What are the Benefits of Microfiber?

  • More Effective Clean: Microfiber goes where no terry towel has gone before collecting debris too small for traditional cloths.
  • Reduces Chemical Usage: Microfiber cloths work best with just a touch of dampness. This significantly reduces the amount of water and cleaning used in traditional cleaning methods.
  • Increased Productivity: The microfiber cloth does the cleaning for you. With proper folding techniques, you can utilize 16-sides of the cloth so you can keep cleaning without stopping to replace the cloth.

Care & Cleaning

Many wonder, since Microfiber can collet debris and bacteria on a micron level, do you have to throw out the cloths when you're finished? The answer is no. Microfiber cloths can be laundered in a washing machine.

Proceed with caution, great care should be taken to make sure the water temperature is cold, and that only microfibers should be washed together. Any other materials washed with microfibers will ruin the cloths. Follow the instructions included with your microfiber cloths.

Cleaning & Infection Control with Microfiber Cloths

When it comes to cleaning, it's no wonder why Microfiber Cloths are the #1 choice for hospitals, fire stations, schools, & viral preventative cleaning. 

Has your facility started using Microfibers yet? The benefits are endless to your janitorial team and in preventing the spread of dust and germs. Want more information on microfiber cloths? Ask SERVPRO of Downey, (562) 392-3007

National Preparedness Month | Week 3

9/9/2021 (Permalink)

Low-Cost, No-Cost Preparedness

Disasters impact you and your family. The trouble is that we don't always know when a disaster will strike. The family may not always be together, and communication may not be possible. PLAN AHEAD!

Here are 3 Areas to Consider when Preparing for a Disaster:

  • Know the risk of disasters and hazards that could affect your area, how to get emergency alerts, and where you would go if you and your family need to evacuate. Visit: www.ready.gov/be-informed. in your area.Is your area prone to earthquakes, tornadoes, hurricanes, or wildfires? Chances are your area may be prone to just a couple. Know what your risks are, and prepare for those.
  • Check your insurance coverage. Know what your plan covers. Some may only cover minimal damage, or damage excluding certain areas. Know what you're liable for.
  • Learn how to make your home stronger. In the face of storms and other common hazards, act fast if you receive a local warning or alert. Prepare your home to withstand the coming disaster. 

Planning ahead could prevent further damage from disaster. Prepare Now!

When a disaster strikes, SERVPRO® is there to clean up the mess. Call SERVPRO® of Downey, Montebello, Compton, Vernon for your disaster recovery needs. From Fire to Water and Debris removal, we are there to assist you. Call us at: (562) 392-3007

National Preparedness Month | Week 2

9/8/2021 (Permalink)

national prep month build a kit Do you have an up-to-date emergency kit?

Do you have an up-to-date emergency kit? Many procrastinate getting one. Some don't know where to begin, others may not feel it's a priority. But these emergency kits or Go Bags are essential in a disaster. If certain resources such as food, water, light, or shelter are unavailable, the emergency bag will have what you need to survive.

Build Your Kit

Many of the items are relatively inexpensive and can be found at most stores. Items such as:

  • Food & Water
  • First Aid Kit
  • Batteries
  • Shelter (Tent, Sleeping bag, Blanket)
  • Phone Chargers
  • Maps

For a complete list of essential emergency bag items, visit this link.

Include Additional Supplies

Think about your family and their needs, and pack for everyone. Do prescriptions need to be included? Pet supplies? Or baby diapers & formula?

These items will be unique to each family and their needs.

Maintain Your Kit

After you have your kit in place and ready to go, continue to update it with unexpired food and water, additional clothing, or other items as your needs change.

Don't Let Emergency Kits Overwhelm You

These kits can prove to be life-saving. Take the time now to get them organized for your home, car, or workspace. You can build your own or buy a pre-packed one. 

Here are some of our favorites!

Judy - Emergency Kit

Uncharted Supply Co

When a disaster strikes, SERVPRO® is there to clean up the mess. Call SERVPRO® of Downey, Montebello, Compton, Vernon for your disaster recovery needs. From Fire to Water and Debris removal, we are there to assist you. Call us at: (562) 392-3007

National Preparedness Month | Week 1

9/3/2021 (Permalink)

national prep month photo Talk to your friends and family about how you will communicate before, during, and after a disaster.

MAKE A PLAN

Why is making a plan so crucial? Not everyone in the family may be together during a disaster. You may be at work and kids could be at school or with a sitter or relative. A plan needs to be made to ensure everyone will be safe and reunited together. How do you do it?

STEP 1: Put a Plan Together

Have a conversation with your family. Discuss questions like...

  1. How will I receive emergency alerts and warnings?
  2. What is my shelter plan?
  3. What is my evacuation route?
  4. What is my family/household communication plan?
  5. Do I need to update my emergency preparedness kit?
  6. Check with the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and update my emergency plans due to Coronavirus.
    • Get cloth face coverings (for everyone over 2 years old), disinfectants, and check my sheltering plan.

STEP 2: Consider the Needs to Your Family

Your plan needs to be unique to your family. Discuss the specific needs that need to be met, such as medical requirements, dietary restrictions, disability assistance, or language assistance.

STEP 3: Have an Emergency Family Plan & Practice It

Create a plan for your family and practice it. Know where the Go-Bags are, where everyone will be meeting, & how everyone will communicate. You can view and download a sample Family Plan here.

Follow the conversation online @SERVPROdowney@readygov, & @fema. Visit our blog for more #NatlPrep articles and disaster-related information. 

SERVPRO® of Downey, Montebello, Compton, Vernon is here for your source of disaster preparedness. Prepare Now! // (562) 392-3007

Unified School Districts Choose SERVPRO® of Downey

8/20/2021 (Permalink)

commercial school restoration disaster near me downey compton montebello vernon SERVPRO® of Downey provides a fast response to any disaster!

Facility management requires unique solutions. Each facility is managed differently depending on its needs. School facilities are no different. In fact, further care and attention are involved in managing those facilities since our children spend a great deal of time there. Safety is a priority, Safety is our priority at SERVPRO® of Downey.

Here is a recent highlight from a project we did for a school district:

Mold and Lead were discovered in various areas of this school. Once an abatement team arrived to confirm the areas, SERVPRO® of Downey was called out for remediation and removal. 

The areas needed to be available for use within one week. Safety was a priority, and the teachers and students were not allowed to reoccupy until the areas were cleared. We began work immediately so the classrooms could reopen on time. The job was complete and there was minimal disturbance to the school workings.

Here is a quote from the Sr. Director of Risk Management, "I went by there this morning and the Team did a fabulous job last week, this weekend and earlier this week in getting this Classroom ready for Instruction today.  The Teacher was very pleased with her classroom this morning... A Special thanks goes out to the teams at both SERVPRO and Executive Environmental Services for the hard work that your staff did last week, this weekend and earlier this week on Monday on getting this abatement project completed and passing clearances for our Teachers and Students to be able to reoccupy this classroom safely, we do appreciate your hard work to make this all happen in a short period of time within a week or so." 

SERVPRO of Downey, Montebello, Compton, and Vernon are available for all of your facility management needs. We work with various facilities providing fast and effective solutions to your unique problems. Call us 24/7 at (562) 392-3007

The Art of Drying | Air Movers

8/13/2021 (Permalink)

air movers water drying systems restoration near me Many air movers are needed on commercial projects that require a large amount of air flow.

Air movers are the backbone of the restoration industry. 

Air Movers are specialized, industrial fans. They come in different sizes for different drying system set-ups. One thing they all have in common is that they move & push air around wet materials. The result of that moving air allows the wet areas to dry.

Air Movers are crucial to the drying process of any job. More fans don't necessarily mean faster drying. These fans are mean to be placed strategically for optimal drying. These set-ups allow for the air to flow freely around and through wet areas. Though they don't tend to work alone.

Dehumidifiers carry a heavy responsibility on the job site by removing any moisture in a room. Why does moisture need to be removed? Where does the moisture go? Those questions will be answered in a future post.  

SERVPRO® of Downey, Montebello, Compton, Vernon is here to help with all your water damage needs. We are open 24/7, 365 days a year to help you get back to normal. Call us at (562) 392-3007

A SERVPRO Story | Bob C. Testimonial

7/29/2021 (Permalink)

servpro testimonial logo Click the link in the article to view the video...

When people hear stories of water or fire damage, they often think "that'll never happen to me." That is until it happens.

Bob & Marsha found themselves in that situation, never using their insurance of 20yrs! Until they woke up one Sunday morning, and they found water in their home.

Our team at SERVPRO of Downey got close with Bob & Marsha throughout their loss. Our team was there every day to handle the loss but also address the anxieties and many questions Bob and Marsha had. In the end, we all felt like family. 

We couldn't be happier to work with Bob and Marsha in their home and help them through this difficult time. 

To see their full story, view the video below:

https://youtu.be/P4N9eTCgMgQ

Protect Your Business with a Board-up

6/25/2021 (Permalink)

board-up Protect your business with a Board-up

From burglars to car crashes, if a window is shattered or a part of a wall is missing you need a fast solution! You need a board-up to cover and protect your business.

That's Where We Come In

Our team of qualified technicians at SERVPRO of Downey act fast to help you to deal with the chaos. We quickly board up any opening using high-quality materials like plywood and/or tarps, depending on the size of the hole, the surrounding damage, and other factors.

Our techs will then remove any debris left behind. However, we know a board-up is just the start of the restoration process. We are also able to provide reconstruction services as well, to rebuild your property back to its original condition. Our Director of Construction can get your business to, “Like it never even happened.”

A board-up helps protect your property from further damage and it will help the cleanup and recovery process go much faster. 

SERVPRO of Downey is here to help with all your board-up needs. We are open 24/7 365 days a year to help you get back to normal. Call us at (562) 392-3007

Lead: What Are the Risks?

6/3/2021 (Permalink)

peeling paint commercial Call SERVPRO of Downey for your Lead Remediation (562) 392-3007

Lead is a scary word for a lot of people, much like Mold has become. Like Mold, Lead is everywhere. Can it harm us? If so, how do we keep ourselves free from harm?

What Is Lead?

According to EPA, Lead is a naturally occurring element. While it has some beneficial uses, it can be toxic to humans and animals causing health effects.

How It's Used:

Lead can be found in almost all parts of our environments, including in Air, Soil, & Water. Lead can also be found in a variety of products found in and around our homes or businesses, most notably in Paint.

Lead in paint has many benefits. It drys faster, shines better, blocks sound & radiation, and prevents the growth of mildew. Along with paint, ceramics, plumbing materials, solders, gasoline, batteries, ammunition, cosmetics, and toys have been found to contain lead.

When Lead Becomes Toxic:

Lead enters the body through inhalation or consumption, those are the only ways. Lead becomes toxic when disrupted.

Ex. Lead paint in a home is not harmful unless the paint is peeling or chipping. If the paint is disrupted, lead dust can spread in the air and into your lungs. Children may be tempted to eat paint chips or rub their hands on the walls where disrupted lead paint is present. This presents health effects to the child.

Adults and Children absorb lead, children absorb it quicker.

Identify Effects of Lead:

Lead attacks almost every part of your body. Lead effects can be unnoticeable too. A BLL (Blood Lead Level) test will give an approximation of how much lead is in your blood. 

Lead in Your Business:

Yes lead is probably in your business now, whether in the form of paint or products. That doesn't necessarily make it harmful.

Visit the EPA & CPSC websites for more information on Lead and certain items that can be possibly harmful to you. 

Call SERVPRO of Downey for Lead Remediation at your home or business. SERVPRO of Downey is trained and certified to safely handle Lead and properly dispose of it. (562) 392-3007

How to Clean the Air After a Fire

4/9/2021 (Permalink)

smoke in the air For questions about Clean Air, call: (562) 392-3007

You know that nasty sting you feel in your nose when walking by a building that has recently burned down? It's unpleasant & hazardous. The odor is sulfur mixed with smoke. It's called AcridWhat’s the best way to get rid of it?

Smoke contains the residue of all the burned materials and it can be Caustic. Special equipment is used to completely clean the air.

  • Ozone Machines
  • Air Scrubbers

Ozone Machines destroy the Molecules, Bacteria, and Spores that cause unpleasant smells. Air Scrubbers clean the air by repeatedly moving it through HEPA filters which help reduce the smell.

What else is involved?

Other necessary steps involve: (1) Clean all the hard surfaces (2) Wash or treat clothes, drapes, carpets, and upholstery.

A fire doesn’t always destroy a building, smoke however, can ruin everything it contacts. Make sure you do all that’s needed to “clear the air.”

SERVPRO® of Downey is here to help with all your fire damage needs. We are open 24/7, 365 days a year to help you get back to normal. Call us at (562) 392-3007

Ask your Mitigation Company if They're IICRC Certified

4/2/2021 (Permalink)

servpro logo iicrc logo SERVPRO is a IICRC Certified firm

Our Highly Trained Restoration Specialists can restore your Downey Business

SERVPRO of Downey is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.

IICRC Certified Firms must

• Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.

• Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.

• Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.

• Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.

• Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.

The IICRC Develops The Standards For The Restoration Industry

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.

SERVPRO® of Downey is here to help with all your water damage needs. We are open 24/7, 365 days a year to help you get back to normal. Call us at (562) 392-3007

Commercial Deep Cleaning | Sanitizing

3/23/2021 (Permalink)

cleaning a commercial kitchen The cleaning of a commercial kitchen.

According to the CDC, 1 in 6 Americans get sick from contaminated foods and beverages each year, while 3,000 die. 

That statistic gives proof that restaurant & kitchen cleanliness is crucial. That's a fact whether it's a school cafeteria or a 5-star Michelin restaurant. Kitchen managers do well to follow strict food safety regulations when it comes to handling food in their kitchen and maintaining a sanitary commercial kitchen. Addition measures may be implemented to protect the employees and customers form viral contaminations.

Aside from the strict internal regulations on cleaning, for facilities to ensure all areas of their restaurants are properly cleaned they may look into these trouble areas:

The Kitchen Floor: A clean kitchen floor usually means a clean kitchen. These floors sustain foot traffic, fallen food, and grease from machines. If not cleaned properly they can become a breeding ground for bacteria and vermin. Thorough sweeping, from corner to corner, under all equipment and washed with cleaning solution will ensure a sanitary floor. 

The Refrigerator: Daily cleaning of refrigerators, walk in or stand alone, will prevent cross-contamination of foods. Wiping down these units will also prevent mildew, a type of fungus.

Dumpster Zones: Although dumpsters are typically on the exterior of a restaurant, they can easily get over looked in the process of cleaning. The cleaning of this area can prevent foul odors, vermin, and hard grease and oil stains. It can greatly improve the appearance of your facility.

Remember, a cleaner kitchen is a healthier kitchen. 

Can I Shut Off the Drying Equipment?

3/5/2021 (Permalink)

servpro equipment water damage near me restoration best downey Should you turn the equipment off?

An integral part of the water damage process is setting up drying systems. These drying systems aren't random placements of equipment, but strategically placed for optimal drying. Equipment are essential in drying out the affected areas, but what if the noise is disturbing your peace?

Can I Turn Off the Drying Equipment?

You should refrain from turning off the equipment without consulting the lead technician first. These machines are necessary to dry out your home as quickly as possible. Turning them off can prolong the job and may mean they remain at your property longer.

In order to determine the correct amount of equipment to place, our skilled crews follow IICRC guidelines that determine industry standards.

A water loss doesn't have to a headache. Let SERVPRO® of Downey take care of it, we'll get your property looking "Like it never even happened." (562) 392-3007

Are Two Masks Better Than One?

3/5/2021 (Permalink)

virus protection covid-19 spread effectiveness sanitation disinfection near me downey Better Protection, Better Masks

Masks are a crucial step in preventing the spread of COVID-19. These masks provide the best protection when everyone wears them, however not all masks are made the same or provide the same level of protection. How can you choose the right mask? Are two better than one?

Choose a mask that will...

  1. Fit snuggly against your face. This prevents air and droplet leaks around the edge of the mask.
  2. Have multiple layers. This prevents leaks through the mask.

Remember! Masks need to fit properly & be a good quality to be effective. When masks don't fit properly or is made of a single layer of cloth, an additional mask may be needed.

N95 masks provide the best level of protection. The demand for these masks are high, and are primarily sourced for the medical field. If you're unable to use an N95 mask, here are some things to keep in mind.

The mask should...

  • Have a Nose Wire. This helps keep the mask on your face.
  • Fit snuggly over your mouth, nose, & chin. This helps seal your mask around your entire face. 
  • Have multiple Layers. This prevents droplets from escaping.

If you cannot find a mask that matches the upon criteria, a lowering performing single layer mask will suffice when combined with an additional tight fitting mask.

For more information on mask protection visit the CDC.gov. SERVPRO® of Downey provides defensive virus protection for your property. For more information on our sanitation services, call (562) 392-3007.

Storm Watch 2021: What Can We Learn from Texas?

2/19/2021 (Permalink)

winter storm damage commercial loss near me downey emergency services Our hearts break for those experiencing the storm in Texas and surrounding states

As many of us have seen, the Winter Storm Uri is wrecking havoc on the state of Texas and some of the surrounding states. 

Notable Updates:

  • Heavy Snow Fall & Ice began to fall starting February 12-13th.
  • Up to 9in of snow was reported, covering some 80% of Texas.
  • Texas saw its coldest temperatures to date coming in at minus 3 degrees in some parts.
  • This storm has caused millions to be without power and running water. 
  • Many water damage cases have been reported as well as frozen pipes.
  • Over 100 SERVPRO® franchises have been called to respond to over 10,000 calls for help.

What Does the Winter Storm Uri Teach Us?

Winter Storm Uri and Texas teaches us a lesson in Preparedness. Texans may never have thought they'd face a storm so extreme. Were they prepared? Many weren't. The key is Preparedness. Prepare for the worst, hope for the best.

We can learn a similar lesson in California. The next Wild Fire or Earthquake could be devastating. Preparedness doesn't stop the devastation, but it does allow you to have what you need when you need it. For residents, this includes food, clean water, & electricity. 

For commercial facilities, ask yourself: Do I have a relationship with my local mitigation company? If I do, do I have a partnership with them that would give us priority service? What emergencies are we prepared for? 

The answer to those questions could make or break your business! Don't hesitate, call SERVPRO® to help prepare your business for a disaster. (562) 392-3007     

What Can Your Water Mitigation Do?

2/8/2021 (Permalink)

servpro commercial work demolition debris removal near me downey SERVPRO® of Downey says Yes! Call us at (562) 392-3007

At SERVPRO® of Downey, our favorite word is YES! No one likes to be told no by a company they need work done from. But many don't realize just how much your Water Mitigation Company can help you. 

Your Average Mitigation Company

They assist with:

  • Water & Fire Restoration
  • Reconstruction
  • Mold Remediation

Your average mitigation company can be a great help in emergencies listed above. But some commercial clients need a little more. They need a company who will say yes, whatever the request is. Is that your mitigation company?

SERVPRO® of Downey is your Solution

We assist with:

SERVPRO® of Downey says Yes! If you're a commercial client with specific needs and a company to say yes, consider SERVPRO® of Downey. We're here to help! (562) 392-3007

Keeping Schools Safe & Healthy

2/4/2021 (Permalink)

school cleaning and sanitizing near me proactive covid19 cleaning air duct cleaning near me downey How Clean is Your Educational Facility?

Our children need a safe and healthy environment to learn and a schools cleanliness contributes to that. Schools get regularly cleaned by the staff. However, unexpected things happen that can threaten the cleanliness of the school.

For instance...

  • Sewage Back-Up
    This exceeds the common clogged toilet. Broken or cracked pipes can leak sewage and threaten the health & safety of the students and staff.
  • Air Duct Cleaning
    Every 3-5 years air ducts should be cleaned. This cleaning will eliminate airborne substances that can cause common allergy symptoms, and improve the overall air quality of the structure.
  • Proactive COVID-19 Sanitizing 
    Regular COVID-19 sanitizing will ensure a healthy environment for children. This will include Fogging or Electrostatic spraying, wiping down surfaces, and deep carpet cleaning. All cleaning products are non irritant. Meaning those sensitive to smells will most likely be unaffected.

Our cleaning follows the same EPA & CDC standards for cleanliness. Such cleanliness can also prevent pest problems. This keeps your children's school environment clean and healthy.

SERVPRO of Downey is here to help with all your cleaning & sanitizing needs for your educational facility. We are open 24/7 365 days a year to help you get back to normal. Call us at (562) 392-3007 "Like it never even happened."

The Impact of Smoke & Fire Damage

2/2/2021 (Permalink)

commercial building fire restoration near me downey The longer you allow the smoke damage to set in, the more damage you will see.

When your Downey property is subjected to a fire; smoke, ash, and even water from the firefighters will cause damage. However, learning more about how smoke damage progresses as well as where you can obtain restoration services can prevent these issues from becoming problematic for you. Get the information you need to reduce the lasting impact that fire damage can have.

How Smoke or Ash Damage Progresses

  • During the first few minutes of smoke damage, the soot’s acidic nature will start to yellow several types of plastics, including your small appliances. If not restored quickly, porous materials such as marble or alabaster can become permanently discolored.
  • Several hours later, the acid from the soot will stain the grout in your kitchen or bathroom. It can also tarnish metal, yellow your fiberglass, discolor your furniture, or damage your major appliances.
  • Within several days, your painted surfaces will be subjected to acidic soot. They will then start to yellow. Additional forms of deterioration include the corrosion, rusting, and pitting of metals. Your wood may also be in need of refinishing. Finally, you may have to replace your vinyl floors.
  • Within a few weeks, the damage deepens. For example, your carpets can be permanently discolored. Additionally, your silver-plated possessions can be subjected to irreversible corrosion. Also, items like glass and china may become etched in the soot’s acid.

Seek Professional Smoke Damage Restoration Services

Smoke and fire damage can have a profoundly adverse impact on your property, time is of the essence. The longer you allow the smoke damage to set in, the more complications and deterioration you will see. For this reason, finding a high-quality fire and smoke damage restoration company is important. To ensure that you attain the excellent, expedient services you need, look for a restoration company that possesses the following attributes:

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

If you’re looking for a disaster restoration company SERVPRO of Downey should be your first stop. After years of serving our community, we have the skills and experience to respond quickly to any smoke or fire incident. In fact, our technicians are skilled in cleaning soot and smoke damage from most surfaces and belongings. Call us today at (562) 392-3007!

Does Your Heater Smell?

1/26/2021 (Permalink)

As temperatures cool down, you may be turning up your heat. You may use the heat rarely, but have you ever noticed a funny smell when you turn your heater on?

If you have, you're not the only one. In fact, it's quite common. But you shouldn't ignore it. Depending on the type of smell, there might be a fairly easy solution or a real problem. What does your heater smell like?

Does it Smell Damp or Dusty?


That's normal. Dust and dirt will collect in the ducts over time. When the heat kicks in, the dust can release a smell when it gets blown through the house. If the smell lingers after multiple uses a new filter may be needed.

Does it Smell like Oil or Smoke?


This can be serious problem. Oil may be leaking, that's only if you have an oil furnace. Such a leak may put you at risk for fire damage.

Does it Smell Musty?


A musty smell could signify Mold, either in the unit or filter itself. Inspect, Clean, and Replace as needed to protect your home from Mold.

Does it Smell like Burning Plastic or Electrical?


An object may be in the duct that is overheating and causing the smell. It could entail something much more serious like the units motor overheating. Contact an experienced technician to inspect the electrical of your unit to insure it's working properly.

The next time you smell that "funny" smell, don't ignore it. Call SERVPRO® of Downey to inspect (562) 392-3007

What Do I Do if a Tree Fell on My Roof?

1/22/2021 (Permalink)

tree removal services, tree fell on roof repair, near me servpro downey What is the process when a tree falls on your roof? Call SERVPRO® to help (562) 392-3007

When a tree falls on your roof, it causes many problems: it damages your home’s structure, it exposes your home to the elements, & increases risk of other damage from electrical sources. What is the process when a tree falls on your roof?

  1. Contact the necessary people. You'll want to call your insurance company to consider coverage. You'll also want to contact a Roofer and a Tree Removal company. Can SERVPRO® help? We sure can! We're able to performing tarping as well as water restoration if the interior of your house was exposed to the elements.
  2. Remove the tree. This might seem like an obvious step, but we can't addresses the problem until the damaged area of your roof has been cleared. 
  3. Tarp exposed areas. A fallen tree will likely cause damage to your roof, leaving it exposed. To ensure outside elements don’t get in and cause more damage, tarping temporarily protects your home. 
  4. Contact a roofing company. Even if the roof is tarped, you’ll need to contact a roofing company to determine the next phase of repairs. 

A fallen tree can cause a lot of damage and headache, but with the above steps, you can get your life back on track. Leave it to SERVPRO®, we'll make it "Like it never even happened."

For Tree Removal or Tarping Services, call SERVPRO® of Downey at (562) 392-3007.

Faster to Any Disaster: Commercial Water Damage

1/21/2021 (Permalink)

water damage commercial loss clean-up near me servpro downey Fast Service - Provided by SERVPRO® of Downey (562) 392-3007

Emergency Water Damage

This construction site suffered a widespread emergency water damage. While the construction was well on it's way, so was the rain. The roof wasn't reinforced yet, and the tarping was minimal. Was it enough for the heavy storm that was on its way?

That night heavy rain came and wrecked havoc on the construction site. The next morning, workers showed up to find their whole site flooded, along with tools and supplies. There was only one company to call, SERVPRO® of Downey.

SERVPRO® On-Site! 

We mobilized fast! Workers were on-site to reinforce the roof tarping for future rain and to clear our any standing water from the facility. After some days, the whole site was tarped and filled with specialty drying equipment to ensure a dry construction site.

Can SERVPRO® Help You?

The job was massive, but took place smoothly. Does your facility need emergency services? Call SERVPRO®, we're here to help with restoration, remediation, and sanitation. 

Call Us: (562) 392-3007

You Can Prevent Home Fires

1/18/2021 (Permalink)

home fire damage emergency response restoration near me servpro downey SERVPRO® of Downey is here to help - (562) 392-3007

House fires happen. Homes end up getting damaged or destroyed, along with belongings. Yet, even though no one wants to experience these home fires, The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) notes more than 360,000 homes fires a year.

A majority of fires are preventable. Are you taking the proper steps to prevent a fire in your home? Note the 3 common causes of home fires:

3) Electrical Equipment & Lighting
Wires, Extension Cords, & Heaters are in almost every home. Malfunctions can cause this equipment to go up in flames. One of the most common is decorative Christmas lights. When left on or unattended for a long period of time, these lights can overheat and cause serious damage.

Keep in Mind...
Unplug electrical equipment that's not in use.
Check any decorative lights periodically to avoid overheating.

2) Dryers
Dryers are commonly known for starting fires, yet many don't take the time to properly maintain their dryer. Maintenance includes proper cleaning of the lint tray and duct system connected to dryer.

Keep in Mind...
Clean out the lint tray after every use.
Never run your dryer without the lint tray in place.

1) Cooking
According to the NFPA, 46% of home fires start in the kitchen with cooking. Cooking can easily be distracting, especially when making large meals during the holidays.

Keep in Mind...
Never leave your stove top unattended.
Keep children away from hot areas in the kitchen.

This information will help you to minimize your risks of a home fire like never before. Aside from this information, Smoke Alarms need to be replaced and tested to help keep your household aware of any potential fire danger. Review and share this information to keep you and your loved ones safe from a home fire.

SERVPRO® of Downey is here to help if Fire Damage or Smoke Damage services need to be performed after the firefighters have left the scene. Call us at (562) 392-3007

3 Common Water Issues in Commercial Buildings

1/4/2021 (Permalink)

Commercial buildings are a maze of supply pipes and drains. A lot of pipes mean a lot of water. Water lines and sprinkler heads of the fire suppression system add more water to the picture. Leaking pipes are everyday occurrences. The occasional flood or pipe break happens. The only surprise comes when the plumbers run out of problems to fix. Following are the three most common problems faced in commercial plumbing.

  1. Small Nuisance Problems

These problems have quick and easy fixes. Dripping faucets and leaking pipes are commonplace in restroom and kitchen areas. Fixing these problems saves water and eliminates the hazards associated with wet floors. Small repairs like this provide plumbers the opportunity to inspect the surrounding plumbing and fixtures. Not every plumbing problem gets reported.

  1. Toilet Problems

Toilet design is all about performing the flush using the least possible amount of water. It takes a delicate balance of water volume and pressure for a successful flush. When conditions aren’t correct, the result is a toilet backup. Some problem toilets frequently block. They may need a new flush valve or total replacement.

  1. Blocked, Slow and Foul-Smelling Drain Problems

Blocked drains can shut down a sink, room or plumbing zone. A slow drain provides a warning that it will eventually stop completely. Plumbers know that drain-flow problems require prompt attention.

Drain odors from a sink may mean that the trap is dry. A dry trap allows smells and sewer gas to leak into the building. Traps attached to floor drains can dry out as well. Pouring water down the drain is a simple fix for dry traps. If the odor problem persists, it becomes a problem for the custodial staff to handle.

Leaking pipes can cause a flood. The subsequent water damage and the risk of mold are a threat to your business.

SERVPRO of Downey is here to help with all your water damage needs. Call us at (562) 392-3007

Mold: Remediation or Restoration?

1/4/2021 (Permalink)

mold remediation near me downey; closeup image of mold Does mold need to be remediated or restored?

Our specialty at SERVPRO is Remediation and Restoration. What's the difference between the two?

RemediationThe act of stopping or reversing environmental damage.

Restoration: To return something to its former condition. 

How does mold play into situation?

Mold is most likely to grow where there is moisture and humidity. That means, after you've suffered a water damage the chance of mold growth is highly likely. Mold may begin to grow and spread in as little as 40hrs after a water damage.

Is mold remediated or restored? 

Mold is remediated. The first step is to clear out any traces of the water damage if one occurred. Next, a containment will be set up so mold growth is contained. After that, a cleansing of the air must take place. Various air units will be placed to filter the air and mold spores that might be present throughout. Lastly all mold affected materials will be removed.

Don't let the media scare you. The mold removal process should only be done by professionals. Call SERVPRO of Downey with any questions: (562) 392-3007

What You Need to Know about Flooding

12/28/2020 (Permalink)

flooded city What type of flooding is common near you?

Flooding is said to have killed more than any other natural disaster. In America, we see it and it's no doubt why it's the most common natural disaster. Here are how floods are classified: 

Flash Floods: These types of floods provide very little warning and are most common. They are accompanied with heavy downpours and fast moving lethal devastation.

River Floods: These floods occur when the water capacity of a river overflows. These may be less common in the LA and OC area, but more prevalent where rivers reside. This type of flooding happens over a period of rainfall. Considerable damage can occur, yet prevention is possible as the river nears its flood stage.

Urban Flooding: This flooding occurs in well populated cities and metropolitan areas due to the lack of drainage. It can be brought on by Flash flooding or River flooding.

-

Follow the warnings of your local authorities if any type of flooding threatens your home. Doing so will keep you and your family safe and protected from the damage flooding can cause.

SERVPRO® of Downey is here to help in cases of flood damage to your home or business. Call us: (562) 392-3007

Water Damage Emergency Do's and Don'ts

12/22/2020 (Permalink)

water damage do's and don'ts clean up near me Contact SERVPRO® of Downey for your Water Damage needs: 1-800-700-SERV

From a Clean Water Source

DO:

  • Shut off the source of the water if possible or contact a qualified party to stop the water.
  • Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building, when access to the power distribution panel is safe from electrical shock. 
  • Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting.
  • Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removing lamps and tabletop items. 
  • Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying. 
  • Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting. 
  • Remove any paintings, art objects, computers, documents and other materials that are valuable or sensitive to moisture. 

DON’T:

  • Enter rooms with standing water where electrical hazards may exist.
  • Enter affected areas if electrical outlets, switches, circuit breakers or electrical equipment are exposed to water.
  • Leave books, newspapers, magazines or other colored items on wet carpets to cause staining.
  • Use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water, possibly causing electrical shock or damage to the vacuum cleaner.
  • Use TVs or other appliances while standing on wet carpets or floors, especially not on wet concrete floors.
  • Turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet or enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water. 

From Contaminated Water Source

DO:

  • Avoid all contact with sewage and items contaminated by sewage.
  • If exposed to harmful waste, OSHA recommends a post-exposure medical evaluation. Consult your local health department or physician. 

DON’T:

  • Turn on the HVAC system if there is a possibility of spreading contaminated air. 
  • Use household fans to dry the structure and spread contaminants.

From Harmful Waste

DO:

  • Stay out of affected areas.
  • Call emergency service personnel if the situation is life-threatening. 

DON’T:

  • Attempt cleanup of any kind.
  • Touch or handle items that might be contaminated with bodily fluids.

Where Can I Find 24/hr Water Removal Services for my Business?

12/15/2020 (Permalink)

water damage restoration near me clean-up downey SERVPRO® of Downey: (562) 392-3007

SERVPRO® Can Remediate Water Damage Day or Night!

Owning a business is a demanding profession, that business if your priority. And suddenly needing water remediation services can be overwhelming. Our priority at SERVPRO® of Downey is making sure your business is taken care of.

Do you have a plan in case of a water or fire disaster? Make SERVPRO® a part of that plan. Water Restoration Services don't have to be a pain.

I Need Discretion, Can SERVPRO® Provide That? It is our goal at SERVPRO® of Downey to leave our customers feeling happy and taken care of. If you want a discreet service to your property, we can:

  • Use back entrances to avoid public line-of-sight
  • Work during a time when your business is closed normally
  • Work fast to get the job done as soon as possible

No matter what your needs are, SERVPRO® can find a way to help you.

How Can SERVPRO® Remediate my Business?

Our technicians do a brief inspection to create a remediation plan. After, we get right to work. We start by:

  • Creating Moisture Map to find all the water.
  • We use thermal imaging cameras to identify water in hidden places
  • Remove standing water, such as wet/dry vacuums
  • Create a drying system with powerful equipment to ensure the moisture levels in your business are normal.

At SERVPRO®, we have specialty equipment & expertise for whatever your needs are. 

For more information on water damage situations for your Downey business, call SERVPRO® of Downey: (562) 392-3007

Winter Allergies in Your Home

12/1/2020 (Permalink)

Tis' the season...for getting sick especially during a pandemic. Not only are we combating a worldwide pandemic, many this time of year will still experience the cold or flu. Such symptoms couldn't come at a more inconvenient time for people.

As much as we hate getting sick, we may bring it on ourselves. How so?

A study by a New York based Medical University showed that Christmas Trees could be affecting our allergies. Mold spores are found on Christmas Trees. A connection can be made there.

Don't be alarmed, mold spores are naturally found on organic materials like a tree. When those spores are aggravated due to temperatures or moisture, it can begin to cause health effects.

Here's what we should remember about this Christmas Tree Syndrome:

  • If we don't have any sensitive allergies, we probably don't have to worry about it.
  • If we do have said allergies, use an air purifier, get rid of the tree as soon as you're done with it, or even better get an artificial one.

Most importantly, stay healthy this holiday season.

Dirty Dryer Vents Can Cause Fires

11/2/2020 (Permalink)

duct dryer vent cleaning near me downey Clogged dryer vent

For most of us, convenience is everything. This is especially true in our homes. Imagine where we would be without the air conditioner, dishwasher, or microwave. You may remember the days of collecting all your quarters and going down to the Laundromat to do laundry. However, there was a benefit to that.

The benefit: not having to clean your dryer vents. Hardly any of us think about cleaning our vents or even know we should be. The fact of it is Lint accumulates in our dryer vents overtime. We can see a sample of this when we reload our dryer and clean out the small vent trap. Now imagine that on a larger scale. Say you've lived in the same home for 10-15 years+ and never had the vents cleaned...They'd be clogged!  

The truth of the matter is we sometimes take convenience for granted. That mistake could cost us our home, or even our life. Around 2,900 Dryer Fires are reported each year. How can we bring this statistic down? Clean our dryer vents.

How do you know if you need your vents cleaned?

  • Your laundry may take longer to dry. 
  • The dryer may be hotter to the touch than usual. 
  • A burning smell may be present when the dryer is running. 

Where do you start? Professionals. Although DIY kits are sold, nothing beats the expertise and assured safety of a professional. Find out more dryer vent information here: https://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/outreach/clothes_dryers.html

Include Your Pets in Fire Evacuation Practices

10/26/2020 (Permalink)

fire damage restoration near me pet safety Practice the evacuation plan several times with your pet.

We are used to Fires in the Los Angeles/Orange County area. During a Fire, your first priority is to get yourself and your family members out safely. You will not want to forget your pets too! It is important you have a plan in place to evacuate your pets in case a fire emergency should occur. Start by including your pets into your home escape plan.

5 Tasks to Prepare Your Pet

Preparation is key when it comes to protecting your pets in a fire. In case your pets are in an unsafe location that you or your other family members can’t get to, there are several steps you can take to better the chance of their rescue:

1. Keep your pet in rooms or areas that are easily accessible to fire fighters. 

2. Update your pet alert window cling on the front window of your home. 

3. Set aside a disaster supply kit just for your pet. Include any medication or dog supplies you may need. 

4. Place important pet ownership documents and proof of vaccinations in a fire box that you can easily retrieve.  

5. Teach your pets the “Come” command so you can easily direct them towards you in an emergency. 

Creating Your Pet Evacuation Plan 

In addition to these important pet safety tasks, you will need to create a pet evacuation plan. Assign an individual or two to be in charge of retrieving the pets. If your pets are located in a specific part of the house during the night, identify several different routes to that location. Practice the evacuation plan several times with your pet. 

In the event of an evacuation due to a wildfire, have arrangements in place for your pet to stay. 


Keep your pets and family members safe by having a well thought out plan if a fire emergency does occur. Never risk your safety or the safety of a family member to save your house pet. While your pets might be able to escape safely on their own, you can increase the chance of their rescue with these tips!

Sanitize Your Downey Business from COVID-19

10/8/2020 (Permalink)

COVID-19 cleaning near me downey, here to help How Clean is Your Downey Business? (800) 700-SERV

As businesses in the Downey Community continue to reopen, cleanliness and safety are of most importance. As the COVID-19 pandemic is still sweeping across communities, taking precautions will serve to protect your employee's and customers.  

We're Here to Help Protect Your Downey Business

No doubt your already implementing the basics:

  • Social Distancing 
  • Mask Requirement
  • Routine Cleaning of your Facility
  • Increased Hand Washing

These will certainly serve to protect your facility. Can further precautions be taken to protect your business and customers?

At SERVPRO® of Downey, we offer a variety of methods to keep your facility safe and free from viral pathogens. 

Our methods include:

Read more about these methods and why they are most effective at the links above.

To schedule a Sanitation Cleaning at your Downey Business, call (800) 700-SERV. 

Ask about our Routine Certified Cleaning Program!

SERVPRO® Solutions: Matterport Scanning

10/1/2020 (Permalink)

matterport camera The Matterport PRO 2 Camera is 134 megapixels and shoots with 3D accuracy using infrared sensors.

At SERVPRO® of Downey, we like to provide the best possible solutions for our clients and their needs. To accomplish this we are always seeking out new forms of technology and solutions to provide a more thorough service.

One of our latest technologies is the Matterport 3D CameraThe Matterport 3D scanning system allows us to capture a space and create a virtual 3D model. 

How It Can Benefit You:

  • Virtual Walkthroughs - Due to COVID-19, many insurance adjusters and facility managers have suspended their in-person walk throughs. The Matterport system allows us to share that space with them virtually as if they were there in person.
  • Insurance Claims - Having a 3D scan of your space could be useful during an insurance claim. It could show items & possessions that would need to be noted. If you already have a claim, it would be a useful tool to capture the loss.
  •  Measurement Tool - During a loss, we want to provide the most accurate information. The Matterport system uses infrared sensors to capture data. This data can measured within the system to provide the most accurate estimate.

Can you utilize the Matterport 3D system? Most business can. For more information on the Matterport system, please call our office or reach out online. (562) 392-3007

Which Mask Will Protect You Best?

9/15/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO logo with person wearing mask What protection is your mask giving you?

We're all familiar with masks at this point. They protect us from the COVID-19 virus. But recent Wildfires have posed a different threat... Smoke Particles. Does your mask protect you from both COVID-19 and Smoke Particles? 

Cloth Masks

These masks block virus droplets. Walk into a bakery with these masks and I guarantee you'll smell all the baked goodness. That's how the mask works. But these cloth masks do not block smoke particles. Though they may block large bits of ash floating through the air, the cloth allows for small particles to enter and possibly compromise your system.

N95 Masks

These masks provide a tight seal around your face and are excellent when dealing with smoke particles. Some N95 masks have an air filters on them. Those are designed to prevent inhaling potentially dangerous particulates. However, the N95 masks with air filters should not be used for COVID-19 protection. Those filters do not block droplets from leaving the mask.

It's science! N95 will provide the best protection for both the COVID-19 virus and smoke particles as long as there is no air filter.

National Preparedness Month: Prepare for Disasters

9/8/2020 (Permalink)

researching alerts on phone Prepare Now! Receive Disaster and Public Safety alerts from local authorities.

Disasters impact you and your family. The trouble is that we don't always know when a disaster will strike. The family may not always be together, and communication may not be possible. PLAN AHEAD!

Here are 3 Areas to Consider when Preparing for a Disaster:

  • Know the risk of disasters in your area. Is your area prone to earthquakes, tornadoes, hurricanes, or wildfires? Chances are your area may be prone to just a couple. Know what your risks are, and prepare for those.
  • Check your insurance coverage. Know what your plan covers. Some may only cover minimal damage, or damage excluding certain areas. Know what you're liable for.
  • Learn how to make your home stronger. In the face of storms and other common hazards, act fast if you receive a local warning or alert. Prepare your home to withstand the coming disaster. 

Planning ahead could prevent further damage from disaster. Prepare Now!

Follow the conversation online @SERVPROdowney@readygov, & @fema. Visit our blog for more #NatlPrep articles and disaster related information. Sign up for our giveaway here!!!

SERVPRO® of Downey // (562) 392-3007

National Preparedness Month: Build a Kit

9/3/2020 (Permalink)

Emergency Kit graphic Don't Wait, Build Your Kit Today!

Do you have an up-to-date emergency kit? Many procrastinate getting one. But these emergency kits or Go Bags are essential in a disaster. If certain resources such as food, water, light, or shelter aren't available, the emergency bag will have what you need to survive.

Build Your Kit

Many of the items are relatively inexpensive and can be found at most stores. Items such as:

  • Food & Water
  • First Aid Kit
  • Batteries
  • Shelter (Tent, Sleeping bag, Blanket)
  • Phone Chargers
  • Maps

For a complete list of essential emergency bag items, visit this link.

Include Additional Supplies

Think about your family and their needs. Do prescriptions need to be included? Pet supplies? Or baby diapers & formula?

These items will be unique to each family and their needs.

Maintain Your Kit

After you have your kit in place and ready to go, continue to update it with unexpired food and water, additional clothing, or other items as your needs change.

Don't Let Emergency Kits Overwhelm You

These kits can prove to be life saving when we need them. Take the time now to get them organized for your home, car, or workspace. You can build your own or buy a pre-packed one. 

Here are some of our favorites!

Judy - Emergency Kit

Uncharted Supply Co

National Preparedness Month: Make a Plan

8/27/2020 (Permalink)

Family discussing emergency plan Make a Plan Today, Prepare for Tomorrow

"Tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today.” - Malcolm X

Why make a plan? Not all the family may be together during a disaster. You may be at work and kids could be at school or with a sitter or relative. A plan needs to be made to ensure everyone will be safe and reunited together.

STEP 1: Put a Plan Together

Have a conversation with your family. Discuss questions like...

  1. How will I receive emergency alerts and warnings?
  2. What is my shelter plan?
  3. What is my evacuation route?
  4. What is my family/household communication plan?
  5. Do I need to update my emergency preparedness kit?
  6. Check with the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and update my emergency plans due to Coronavirus.
    • Get cloth face coverings (for everyone over 2 years old), disinfectants, and check my sheltering plan.

STEP 2: Consider the Needs to Your Family

Your plan needs to be unique to your family. Discuss the specific needs that need to be met, such as medical requirements, dietary restrictions, disability assistance, or language assistance.

STEP 3: Have an Emergency Family Plan & Practice It

Create a plan for your family and practice it. Know where the Go-Bags are, where everyone will be meeting, & how everyone will communicate. You can view and download a sample Family Plan here.

Follow the conversation online @SERVPROdowney, @readygov, & @fema. Visit our blog for more #NatlPrep articles and disaster related information. 

SERVPRO® of Downey // (562) 392-3007

National Preparedness Month: 2020

8/20/2020 (Permalink)

National prep month logo Be Prepared, Stay Informed

In September of each year, communities & families come together to recognize and promote disaster planning. With the presence of the global COVID-19 virus, there is no better time to plan ahead for the future.

This years National Preparedness theme is: "Disasters Don’t Wait. Make Your Plan Today."

What you can expect from Natl Prep month:

  • How to communicate with your family, friends, & neighbors about disasters.
  • How to build a preparedness kit.
  • Learn about the risks in your area, and be able to protect your home from those risks.
  • How to teach youth about the importance of preparedness.

Stay tuned this month as we share resources that will prove to be valuable during disasters.

Follow the conversations online using #NatlPrep & #BeReady. As well as @SERVPROdowney, @readygov, & @fema. We look forward to spreading the word about preparedness this Natl Prep month!

Prepare Your Business for a Water Damage

8/10/2020 (Permalink)

flooded retail foor Is your business prepared for water damage?

Water damages happen, it's okay. That's why we're here. We’ve learned that most customers aren’t sure how to navigate the cleanup and restoration process. Here are some steps you need to take if water damage strikes your business!

  1. Address the Source. If you know the cause of the damage, address that first. This may require calling a plumber, but if you don’t know the source of the damage, then you can skip to the next step.
  2. Call SERVPRO®. We're going to assess the water damage and begin the cleanup and restoration process. If you haven’t identified the cause of the damage yet, we will help you determine that and provide you with the next steps.
  3. Contact Insurance Company. Consider calling your local agent and making a claim. Disasters can be costly, so if you’re covered, your insurance can drastically reduce your out-of-pocket expenses!

Water damage can be stressful. We want to help you navigate this process as smoothly as possible.

For more information on water damage situations call SERVPRO® of Downey: (562) 392-3007

Disinfect with Electrostatic Sprayers

7/23/2020 (Permalink)

Electrostatic sprayers lined up Is your business as clean as it could be? (562) 392-3007

How do you clean? Traditional methods are tried and true, like a cloth & disinfectant. Now more than ever, with the presence of COVID-19, people and businesses want fast effective ways to clean. One of our favorite methods is the use of Electrostatic Sprayers.

What is Electrostatic Disinfection? 

Electrostatic Spraying is way to apply cleaners and disinfectants to surfaces and objects. As the solution passes through the sprayer the particles become positively charged. These positively charged particles aggressively stick to surfaces and objects. 

Why Electrostatic Spraying is Right for Your Business:

Due to the aggressive nature of the particles, they adhere even to hard to reach places. This reduces your cleaning time by 50%! The use of Electrostatic Sprayers also allow you more control over the disinfectants and viruses at your facility. 

Not only will your business be clean, it will feel clean to employees and customers. 

For more information on Electrostatic Sprayers, call our COVID-19 Sanitation Specialists: (562) 392-3007

*At SERVPRO® we use a proprietary disinfectant called SERVPROXIDETM, an EPA registered, stabilized chlorine dioxide based disinfectant and sanitizer. 

What is the Difference Between Cleaning, Disinfecting, & Sanitation?

6/25/2020 (Permalink)

commercial building with SERVPRO logo How Clean is Your Facility? (562) 392-3007

Has your facility been sanitized, or just cleaned? What if something needs to be disinfected? What does that mean? Do these terms really differ that much? Does it matter? With the presence of COVID-19, many facilities are rethinking what 'clean' means to them. Consider how understanding these terms better will help you keep your facility safe and healthy.

Let's consider an example...

Think about a toilet in your commercial facility. According to the CDC, "Cleaning removes germs, dirt, and impurities from surfaces or objects.” 

  • On the toilet we see visible waste & germs on the seat and handle. Cleaning would involve wiping those surfaces clearing the visible waste & germs. But is it really clean? Although the visible waste and germs are gone, they’re still present on a microscopic level. So they need to be disinfected.

“Disinfecting kills germs on surfaces or objects.” 

  • Here we’ll apply a disinfectant spray to the toilet seat and handle, killing the germs & bacteria left, not allowing them to germinate. Although dead and dormant, those germs are still present on those areas.

Sanitizing lowers the number of germs on surfaces or objects.” 

  • To sanitize, you can use disinfectant wipes or microfiber cloths to wipe away the bacteria left.

The level of cleaning you choose will depend on your facility, i.e food service, school/daycare facility, or commercial office.

The possible presence or exposure to viral pathogens will require a higher level of cleaning and sanitation, a level that most cleaning companies or janitorial workers aren't able to accomplish. 

To consult with a SERVPRO® Certified Specialist regarding your facility, contact us at (562) 392-3007

SERVPRO: Your Trusted Cleaning Services

6/1/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO techs wiping down high touch areas Trust SERVPRO® for your Proactive Cleaning (562) 392-3007

SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need

During this time caused by the global pandemic coronavirus, businesses are keeping health and safety as their #1 concern. Our clients are aware of the risks, that's why they've trusted SERVPRO with their proactive cleaning.

Specialized Training

We are prepared to clean and disinfect your business, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform on a daily basis.

The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets and tables. Other spaces mentioned in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces include:

  • Kitchen/Food Areas
  • Bathrooms
  • Schools/Classrooms
  • Offices
  • Retail Spaces
  • Water Fountains
  • Shelving/Racks
  • Sales Counters
  • Carpets and Rugs
  • Stair Handrails
  • Elevator Cars
  • Playground Equipment
  • Fitness Equipment

Specialized Products

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 carry the EPA-approved emerging pathogens claims. While there is currently no product tested against this particular strain of the coronavirus, we are following all guidelines as provided by the CDC and local authorities.

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning

If your business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of Downey, (562) 392-3007

Sources:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/guidance-prevent-spread.html?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fguidance-prevent-spread.html

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/specific-groups/guidance-business-response.html

Prepare to Prevent

6/1/2020 (Permalink)

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned table cards for businesses Get Back to Business with SERVPRO of Downey!

How can your business prevent risk?

Every business has risk associated with it. For restaurants, it's kitchen fires and slips. For warehouses, it's machinery accidents. They are unique to each business. You must identify the risk at your business.

COVID-19 & Your Business

For almost every business, COVID-19 has become risk #1. Preventing COVID-19 at your workplace starts with planning. That planning no doubt includes:

  • Social Distancing
  • Face Masks
  • Hand Washing
  • Regular Sanitation

How Can SERVPRO of Downey Help?

We specialize in cleaning and sanitation. Using up to date technology and cleaning methods, we give you the confidence that when you return to work it will not only look clean but feel clean. Our cleaning methods involve:

  • Microfiber Technology
  • ULV Fogging
  • Steam Cleaning
  • Electrostatic Spraying
  • Hospital Grade Cleaning Agent

We've started the Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned initiative for business to get back open safely and stay safe for their employees and customers. 

To find out more about the program visit the Certified page here.

Call SERVPRO of Downey today at (562) 392-3007 for your Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned – A Defensive Cleaning Program

5/18/2020 (Permalink)

Table tent signs describing the Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned program on top of a wooden table. Our defensive cleaning program gives your business a way forward by providing your employees and customers ongoing safety and assuredness.

Let us help you get back to business

As our communities re-open, we’re all moving back toward a new kind of normal. The expectations of visitors, customers, and employees who come into our establishments have evolved, and staying safe and well is a top concern. The global COVID-19 pandemic has changed what it means to be clean, and we’ve developed a program to help your business meet the new higher standard of clean that is now expected.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is a defensive cleaning program we’re offering to businesses and commercial locations to address the current COVID-19 pandemic. This proactive viral pathogen cleaning program goes well beyond janitorial or carpet cleaning. By choosing Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you, your employees, your customers, and your community can rest assured that you’ve selected a higher cleaning standard – you are Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.

Extensive training and specialized products

As the #1 choice in cleanup and restoration*, we stand on more than 50 years of experience and expertise to help your business become Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.  Beyond fire & water, SERVPRO professionals are trained and experienced in biohazard decontamination and chemical spills – always adhering to the cleaning and decontamination standards set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and local authorities. 

From formulating and creating our proprietary cleaning products, like SERVPROXIDE, at our headquarters in Gallatin, TN, to taking the utmost care while disinfecting, we will ensure you and your business are set up to inspire consumer confidence as the economy continues to reopen.

3 C’s – Consult, Clean, and Certify

When the stakes are this high, you want a partner who has developed an industry leading, proprietary training program, cleaning solutions, and remediation processes over decades. We’ve cleaned up some of the most challenging biohazards imaginable. Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned reflects our unique experiences and capabilities. The program is grounded with our unique 3 C’s: Consult, Clean, and Certify.

  • Consult – Every business is different, which is why you’ll be assigned a Cleaning Protocol Consultant who understands your business and will create a cleaning program to meet your specific needs. This program will be developed based on your business type, size of space, amount of high frequency touchpoints, foot traffic and congestion points.
  • Clean – Based on your specific business needs, your location will undergo a thorough, deep clean, using exclusive cleaning products, according to protocols set forth by the CDC. Our employees have years of experience, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform. Cleanup procedures generally include cleaning of porous and non-porous surfaces, disinfecting of non-porous surfaces, cleaning and disinfecting of equipment, tools, and/or supplies used for cleanup process, and disposal of hazardous materials.  In the event of a suspected or confirmed COVID-19 event, we will be there cleaning within 24 hours to ensure you get back to business as quickly as possible. 
  • Certify - Once your business location has been Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you will gain access to proprietary signage, digital emblems, and other collateral that communicates that you’ve selected a higher standard of clean available to help protect your employees and customers. And because we add the day, month, and year to that proprietary stamp of clean, your guests will know that not only did you choose Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, but that your location is being cleaned regularly at this standard.

Call today for a Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation

We’re Here to Help – 24 hours a day, seven days a week – until life is back to normal in the communities we all call home.

Call SERVPRO of Downey today at (562) 392-3007 for your Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation.

* #1 Choice in cleanup & restoration based Commercial Attitude & Usage Tracking study. Polling 816 commercial business decision makers on first choice for future needs related to cleanup & restoration work. Study conducted by C&R Research: October 2019

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned means professionally trained SERVPRO franchises perform the requested cleaning, sanitizing and disinfection services according to proprietary SERVPRO protocols and recognized industry and CDC standards with EPA approved cleaning products to deliver a SERVPRO certified cleaning experience.  Each SERVPRO franchise is independently owned and operated.

Health Hazards in the Fire House

5/1/2020 (Permalink)

Fire station with the text Health Hazards in the Fire House and servpro logo Fire Fighters Protect Us, We Want to Protect You

The importance of Health & Safety within Fire Stations is of growing concern.

  • What Risks are Present in the Fire Station?
  • Can those Risks be Mitigated?

YOU Fire Fighters Protect the Public, We Want to Protect You. At SERVPRO® of DOWNEY the Health Hazards in Fire Stations is an important topic for us. An increase of Fire Departments are including Safety & Risk Management into Fire Station Planning. The goal? To make Fire Stations Safer for first responders. Here's how we can help:

Free Fire Station Risk Assessment:

  • Specialized Gear & Uniform Cross Contamination
  • Air Quality (Vehicle Exhaust Fumes, Duct Maintenance)
  • Mold, Lead, & Asbestos Testing
  • Carcinogenic Pollutants & Soot
  • COVID-19 & Viral Pathogens

Our experience in handling Fire Stations has given us the ability to provide a variety of detailed services for your facility:

  • Mold Remediation
  • Lead & Asbestos Abatement 
  • Specialized Gear & Uniform Decontamination
  • Odor Elimination
  • Fire House Specialized Cleaning
  • COVID-19 & Viral Pathogen Sanitation
  • Duct Cleaning

For more information on Fire House or Fire Truck cleaning, call us at (562) 392-3007. We're Here to Help.

"Back to Work - CLEAN & READY!"

4/24/2020 (Permalink)

Office space with servpro logo and text, Get Back to Work Safely Are you concerned about going back to Work or School? Get Back to Work - CLEAN & READY!

Are you concerned about going back to Work or School? No doubt you may wonder, has this area been properly cleaned or sanitized? Such a question can create doubt in your mind.

We want to eliminate that doubt. That's why SERVPRO® of Downey has started the Back to Work - CLEAN & READY initiative.

THE GOAL:

  • The goal of this initiative is to partner with businesses and schools, sanitizing all spaces on those properties. Minimizing any concerns or doubts that any employees, students, or visitors would have.

If you have a custodial crew at your site, they are no doubt doing a great job cleaning, however the COVID-19 pandemic may require more consideration. 

THE BENEFIT TO YOU:

  • Having a nationally recognized company, like SERVPRO®, perform and document  final sanitation services would help create public confidence, but more importantly, it would make coming back to work or school feel safe.
  • This program includes a training that educates all stakeholders and staff members on the effective cleaning and sanitation methods. Afterwards your custodial staff or SERVPRO® can do a final cleaning/sanitation using proper cleaning techniques. SERVPRO® will document, inspect, and then perform a final ULV fogging service in every classroom or office. This will ensure that surfaces and even hard to reach places are disinfected.

Our goal is keep people safe, healthy, and educated as we start going back to work and school. 

To find out more information on our Back to Work - CLEAN & READY program, call us at (562) 392-3007

Hand Sanitizer vs Wet Wipes

4/17/2020 (Permalink)

Using hand sanitizer What are the best methods to combat germs & bacteria?

What are the best methods to combat germs & bacteria? The tried and true method of Hand Washing is most effective for cleaning your hands. Many though, are reaching for alternatives such as Hand Sanitizer or Wet Wipes. Is one more effective than the other?

Consider first, why hand washing is so effective. Our hands are filled with germs and bacteria, when we wash our hands, the mixture of hot water, soap, and drying helps break down that bacteria and wash it off our hands completely. 

However, after we leave the store or enter our car, we may reach for an alternative such as hand sanitizer or wet wipes. Whichever alternative we choose, we want to keep in mind a few things...

That information is important for us to know. Some sanitizers, and especially wet wipes do not meet that 60% requirement from the CDC. That percentage helps guarantee the most effectiveness. Some DIY recipes for sanitizers use only 40%, which will not effectively kill germs as well as 60% alcohol.

Important!!! Not all sanitizers and wet wipes are made the same.

Consider this, Benzalkonium chloride is an active ingredient in a popular wet wipe brand. This ingredient however, is less effective than alcohol or Ethanol found commonly in most sanitizers.

As we navigate this germ and virus filled world, we want to continue to educate ourselves to keep us and those we love safe and healthy. As you choose hand washing alternatives, follow the CDC's guidelines for most effectiveness.

If your facility or property needs sanitation or cleaning services, call us at (562) 392-3007.

SERVPROXIDE: For Your Sanitation Needs

3/23/2020 (Permalink)

ServprOXIDE Bottle SERVPROXIDETM is an EPA registered, stabilized chlorine dioxide based disinfectant and sanitizer.

We care about your health and safety.

That's why we use our own hospital grade disinfectant for your sanitation needs!

SERVPROXIDETM is an EPA registered, stabilized chlorine dioxide based disinfectant and sanitizer. 

SERVPROXIDETM carries the EPA’s lowest toxicity rating, requires no PPE for general purpose use and is safe for everyday use. It is designed to kill harmful bacteria, viruses, and mold on hard surfaces and is an effective sanitizer for soft surfaces. The product is fragrance-free with a mild odor that dissipates quickly under general ventilation. The product also serves as an excellent deodorizer, once the source has been removed, that oxidizes and does not mask odors such as fire & tobacco smoke, musty odors, pet odors and stale cooking odors to name a few. It can be used to deodorize internal HVAC systems, and can also be wet fogged or misted through a ULV type mister for deodorization purposes. 

Areas of use include: Homes, vehicles, schools, daycare, gyms, locker rooms, sports gear, hospitals, nursing homes, laundry rooms, veterinary, ambulances, laboratories, restaurants, boats, cruise ships, federally inspected meat & poultry processing plants, farms, animal pens and poultry houses, egg processing premises, hatcheries, swine premise sanitation, refrigerated storage units, airplanes, trains, trucks, buses & automobiles. 2 year shelf life.

Are You Utilizing ULV Fogging?

3/20/2020 (Permalink)

ULV fogger Does your cleaning crew utilize ULV Foggers?

A ULV Fogger is a great resource for your maintenance or janitorial team. These foggers can be used for disinfecting, pest control, & mold elimination.

How Do they Work?

Foggers use air pressure to atomize liquid into a mist or fog. Once these droplets are dispersed, they'll remain airborne then settle on surfaces where the solution will do its job. 

What Solutions Work with Foggers?

The fogging solution is stored in a tank. Solutions will depend on the purpose of your fogger. It can be used for mosquito control, in which you'd use an insecticide. It can also be used for disinfecting, which a hospital grade solution would be best.  

Particle Sizes

ULV Foggers produce a very consistent particle size. Foggers allow you to adjust the particle size down to a Micron level. The Micron size will depend on what you're trying to fog and how big of a space you'll be covering. Most Foggers will come with instructions for best use. 

Are ULV Foggers the same as Thermal Foggers or Electrostatic sprayers?

No. Thermal foggers use heat to dispense dense fog. These droplets are non-adjustable, unlike ULV Foggers. Electrostatic sprayers uses positively charged ions to stimulate the solution. When the solution is dispersed they gravitate towards grounded objects. This allows the droplets to cover more territory.

For more information on ULV Foggers and how your team can utilize them, contact SERVPRO® of Downey (562) 392-3007

Is Your Business Prepared for Storm Damage?

3/5/2020 (Permalink)

2 servpro techs by van Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today (562) 392-3007

SERVPRO of Downey has experience restoring businesses affected by storms and flooding. We can respond immediately with highly trained technicians who employ specialized equipment and techniques to restore your business back to pre-storm condition.

Why Call SERVPRO® of Downey?

We're Faster to Any Size Disaster

When a storm hits your Downey business, you need help immediately. Our quick response will help prevent secondary damage and help reduce restoration costs.

Learn More

 

We're Highly Trained Storm Damage Specialists

As leaders in the storm and water damage industry, we have advanced training and expertise, not to mention a tremendous amount of hands-on experience. We use this training and experience to quickly dry your home and restore it back to pre-storm condition.

  • Water Damage Restoration Technician
  • Applied Structural Drying Technicians

Learn More

 

We Have the Resources to Handle Storms and Disasters

We can scale our resources to handle any size storm or disaster. We can access resources from a network of 1,700 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams strategically located throughout the country.

Learn More

Have Storm or Flood Damage?
Call Us Today (562) 392-3007

What's Your Deep Clean & Sanitation Plan?

3/5/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO tech with ppe that reads, SERVPRO can help you clean and sanitize. Do you have a plan for Cleaning & Sanitizing?

We care about your safety. That's why SERVPRO® of Downey has standards and protocols in place to ensure your environments are clean and sanitized.  

Why Choose SERVPRO® for your Cleaning & Sanitizing?

  • Immediate Response Time. No matter what time of day, SERVPRO® is ready to respond and mobilize to your call for help. Immediate response helps lessen the damage or spread of bacteria & other potentially dangerous viruses.
  • OSHA & FDA Approved Cleaning Agents. SERVPRO® uses agents with a 99.9% bacteria kill rate recommended by the CDC. Such cleaning agents can give you the confidence that your environment is sanitized and cleaned to its fullest.
  • Well Documented Strategy and Procedures. When it comes to full sanitation, you shouldn't have to worry about the small things. We document and communicate all procedures giving you the confidence you need to walk back into a clean & safe environment. 

If you don't have a plan in place, don't be afraid, let SERVPRO® be your plan. We follow the cleaning and safety standards of OSHA, CDC, & IICRCYou can be confident that your environment will be clean and safe from most bacteria and germs.

If you would like your Commercial, Institutional, or Home environment sanitized & disinfected, Call SERVPRO of Downey (562) 392-3007

For more information on safety standards, disinfecting, and sanitizing contact us!

Be Ready: Storm Damage

2/20/2020 (Permalink)

Be Ready with SERVPRO house logo Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today (562) 392-3007

Severe weather can happen anytime. 

Storm Damage includes hazardous conditions produced by thunderstorms, strong winds, large hail, & flooding.

Know your risk:
Landslides
Floods
Thunderstorms & Lightning

Develop an emergency plan based on your local weather hazards and practice your plan.

What can you do when your Downey, CA home suffers water damage?  Click Here to visit our blog post covering water damage.

If your home or business suffers damage from a storm, know who to call to quickly get help.

When you are dealing with storm, flood, and water damage, immediate action is crucial.  You should choose the company with storm damage experience and expertise that has the resources and equipment to handle the job.

SERVPRO of Downey responds immediately to your flood and storm damage emergencies. We have the storm damage restoration experience and specialized equipment to restore your home or business back to pre-storm condition. SERVPRO of Downey can respond immediately to storm and flooding conditions.

Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s Corporate Training Facility to regular IICRC industry certifications, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. Our training program includes the following:

  • IICRC Training
  • Employee Certification Training
  • Initial Franchise Training
  • e-Learnings
  • Continuing Education Classes

SERVPRO of Downey is locally owned and operated ready to respond to any of your storm damage incidents.

Have Storm or Flood Damage?
Call Us Today (562) 392-3007

Signs Your Business Might Have a Mold Problem

2/10/2020 (Permalink)

A wall with mold growth, text says "Mold Propblem? Call SERVPRO, we can help." 24/7 Mold Remedation Services (562) 392-3007

Mold can be a major problem for anyone, especially a business. In addition to disrupting your employees’ productivity and potentially causing health effects, active mold growth can destroy your building, furniture, and more. Many business owners respond to mold once it's too late. How do you know if you have mold? There are a few signs to look out for.

  1. You can actually see mold. One of the most obvious signs you have a mold problem is that you can actually see it. In fact, once you’ve spotted it, testing usually isn’t necessary; you simply need to contact a mold remediation company.
  1. You notice a musty smell. Mold doesn’t always grow in visible places, such as under the sink or inside your HVAC system. It does, however, give off a musty smell. If you detect the odor in your business, it’s best to have a professional test your business for mold.
  1. Your business recently had water damage. Mold can begin growing within 24-48 hours after it’s been exposed to moisture. While quick drying and an antimicrobial application can deter mold growth, water damage is often undetected or unaddressed until it’s too late. If you notice you have water damage, call us immediately!

Mold growth can disrupt your business, but it can be addressed by a mold remediation company. Our team at SERVPRO of Downey has remediated hundreds of mold-affected homes and businesses. If your business has mold, you can call us anytime at (562) 392-3007!

Do You Have a Emergency Ready Profile?

2/6/2020 (Permalink)

EPR app shown on phone and where to download it. Be prepared, download the Emergency Ready App today.

According to FEMA, around 40% of businesses fail to reopen after a disaster. To make things worse, the United States Small Business Administration found that over 90% of businesses close within 2 years of a disaster. These statistics may be alarming, but you can lessen the impact of a disaster if you make preparations in advance. One of the easiest ways to prepare is by creating an Emergency Ready Profile.

All of Your Business’ Vital Information

An Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) is a document comprised of all of your business’ vital information. It includes emergency contact information, utility shut-off locations, and other information you or your employees might need in an emergency situation.

Your local SERVPRO franchise will create an ERP for your business—free of charge! A representative will come in and ask a few questions, then get the necessary information regarding shut-offs and emergency exit points. The whole process should take no more than a few minutes of your time!

After your representative compiles the documents, they will present both a physical and a digital copy of the ERP. And in some cases, they will give a copy to your local fire department to have for their own records.

Recovering Your Business

After a disaster, your priority should be to get your business back to its normal operations. Fortunately, an ERP allows you the opportunity to quickly respond and take crucial actions. So if you want to get an ERP for your business in the LA or OC area, call SERVPRO of Downey today at (562) 392-3007!

Reduce the Impact of Smoke & Fire Damage

2/6/2020 (Permalink)

Soot and ash covering a bedroom The longer you allow the smoke damage to set in, the more damage you will see.

When your property is subjected to a fire; smoke, ash, and even water from the firefighters will cause damage. However, learning more about how smoke damage progresses as well as where you can obtain restoration services can prevent these issues from becoming problematic for you. Get the information you need to reduce the lasting impact that fire damage can have.

How Smoke or Ash Damage Progresses

  • During the first few minutes of smoke damage, the soot’s acidic nature will start to yellow several types of plastics, including your small appliances. If not restored quickly, porous materials such as marble or alabaster can become permanently discolored.
  • Several hours later, the acid from the soot will stain the grout in your kitchen or bathroom. It can also tarnish metal, yellow your fiberglass, discolor your furniture, or damage your major appliances.
  • Within several days, your painted surfaces will be subjected to acidic soot. They will then start to yellow. Additional forms of deterioration include the corrosion, rusting, and pitting of metals. Your wood may also be in need of refinishing. Finally, you may have to replace your vinyl floors.
  • Within a few weeks, the damage deepens. For example, your carpets can be permanently discolored. Additionally, your silver-plated possessions can be subjected to irreversible corrosion. Also, items like glass and china may become etched in the soot’s acid.

Seek Professional Smoke Damage Restoration Services

Smoke and fire damage can have a profoundly adverse impact on your property, time is of the essence. The longer you allow the smoke damage to set in, the more complications and deterioration you will see. For this reason, finding a high-quality fire and smoke damage restoration company is important. To ensure that you attain the excellent, expedient services you need, look for a restoration company that possesses the following attributes:

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

If you’re looking for a disaster restoration company SERVPRO of Downey should be your first stop. After years of serving our community, we have the skills and experience to respond quickly to any smoke or fire incident. In fact, our technicians are skilled in cleaning soot and smoke damage from most surfaces and belongings. Call us today at (562) 392-3007!

The Science of Drying

1/24/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO tech in kitchen checking his moisture meter. Does your mitigation company know about the science of drying?

Did you know there is actually a science behind the process of drying?

The knowledge of psychrometrics is essential to restoring a water damaged structure to its preloss condition. While your initial reaction may be to grab a few towels to mop up the mess and place a fan or two around the damaged area, SERVPRO of Downey is trained in the science of drying and follow strict industry-approved standards to help prevent further damage

If your business suffers a water damage, SERVPRO of Downey will:

  • Inspect the building to detect every component that is wet, to help prevent secondary damage from happening.
  • Measure how much moisture is in wet materials and monitor whether the materials are drying properly.
  • Use professional drying equipment.

A wet building can often dry naturally because the environment always seeks equilibrium. When materials are wet, moisture will naturally move to drier air at the surface of the material–but only if the air is, indeed, drier. The only problem is, nature often takes too long and secondary damages may occur while the building is drying out. For this reason, SERVPRO of Downey has been trained to use top-of-the-line equipment to help move your loss forward, including equipment to help dry hardwood floors, tough-to-reach spaces inside walls, and much more.

DRYBOOK™ DOCUMENTATION 

SERVPRO of Downey uses the latest technology to help ensure your property is dried quickly and efficiently. DryBook™ is a proprietary tool that:

  • Manages industry drying requirements. n Provides real-time documentation on the drying process.
  • Validates that services are executed to standard.
  • Reports to all stakeholders involved. 
  • Allows real-time updates through DryBook™ Mobile integration. This improves results and restores your property at a faster rate, getting you back in your home or business sooner.

SERVPRO® uses state-of-the-art
monitoring equipment and a proven scientific process to help speed the drying of your home or business.

The bottom line? SERVPRO of Downey has the training and equipment to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

Have Questions? Call Us Today –(562) 392-3007

Storm Damage Types

1/23/2020 (Permalink)

Large SERVPRO trailer lined with air movers outside. SERVPRO® of Downey is ready to help with your Storm Damage!

Storm Damage is not Created Equal!

During storm season in Downey, CA we see heavy rains, flooding, lighting, and wind! Any one of these storm types could easily cause damage to your home or business. These damages can keep us from feeling like our home is complete or keeping us from running a business. It is important to know the different damages that a storm can cause. 

  • Wind Damage Roof damage in this situation may range from a missing roof due to strong winds that may loosen flashing. This can cause your roof shingles to be removed from your home or business causing leaks. Even a subtle roof leak can produce damp, moldy conditions. A SERVPRO of Downey restoration expert can help property owners address storm damage and roof damage more effectively. 
  • Flooding Damage Heavy rains in the Downey, CA area can cause flooding. Flooding may disrupt municipal water systems which call for experts to assess groundwater and evaluate the condition of pipes following flood damage. Our SERVPRO of Downey team can assist in your cleanup process after flood damage has occurred.  
  • Lighting Damage When a storm occurs, many times it brings the loud sounds of thunder which mean lighting is striking. Your home or business may have objects attached to the building that can attract a lightning strike that can cause a fire. A bolt of lightning can reach temperatures of roughly 30,000 kelvins (53,540 degrees Fahrenheit). Lightning strikes, or discharges of massive charges of static electricity, cause about 2% of all fires. If this occurs in your home or business, SERVPRO of Downey has the team to help handle the restoration of both the fire and smoke damage.

Restaurant Fire Protection Tips

1/21/2020 (Permalink)

A restaurant kitchen fire. Is your restaurant protected from a Fire threat?

The restaurant industry is what we'd call 'High Risk,' specifically for Fires. Think about it... Cooking oils, grilling equipment, cleaning equipment, paper products, and a single open flame can spark a massive fire. That can lead to damaged property, loss of revenue, or possibly closure of the restaurant.

How can Restaurants Protect themselves from the Threat of Fire?

Fire Suppression System

This automatic system can be installed to dispense chemicals to suppress flames before they spread. Once it's activated, fuel or electricity that is powering the cooking equipment is automatically turn off.

Fire Extinguishers

Protect your restaurant by strategically placing fire extinguishers both in the restaurant and in the kitchen. Class K extinguishers work best within kitchens to fight off grease, oil, and fat fires. Class A, B, & C extinguishers can ensure fires don't spread to the sitting area.

Fire Alarm System

A fire alarm system will monitor your restaurant environment for the presence of fire. The system will not only alert those in the building, but may also activate a Fire Suppression System.

Maintenance Checkups

Regular maintenance checkups of your cooking equipment, pipes, and fire protection systems will ensure your restaurant will be protected from fires.

Choosing A Fire Extinguisher

1/21/2020 (Permalink)

A line up of fire extinguishers Do you know what fire extinguisher you have?

Did you know there are five different types of fire extinguishers and that each type is designed for different types of fire? Whether for your home or business, it’s important to have the correct type of fire extinguisher available.

Class A: This is the most common fire extinguisher. It can be used to put out fires in ordinary combustibles such as cloth, wood, rubber, paper and many plastics.

Class B: This type of fire extinguisher is used on fires involving flammable liquids, such as grease, gasoline or oil.

Class C: These fire extinguishers are designed for fires involving appliances, tools, or other equipment electrically energized or plugged in.

Class D: These fire extinguishers are for use on flammable metals, and are typically found only in factories that work with flammable metals.

Class K: This type of fire extinguisher is intended for use on fires that involve vegetable oils, animal oils or fats in cooking appliances. Class K fire extinguishers are generally found in commercial kitchens, but are becoming more popular for use in home kitchens.

Multi-Use: There are fire extinguishers available that are able to be used on several different types of fires. A combination of Classes A, B and C is a common multi-use fire extinguisher.

4 Steps If Water Is Leaking From a Ceiling Light

1/3/2020 (Permalink)

A ceiling light with signs of water damage forming around it Never touch the light fixture or a light switch, and keep everyone as far away as possible from the leak.

4 Steps If Water Is Leaking From a Ceiling Light

Discovering water in light fixtures on the ceiling is an especially hazardous situation and one that needs to be handled with great care. Act quickly and cautiously to prevent damage to your Downey home and keep everyone inside safe. Follow these four steps:

1. Turn Off Electricity

One of the main dangers of water leaking from a ceiling light is the possibility of electrocution or an electrical fire starting. Never touch the light fixture or a light switch, and keep everyone as far away as possible from the leak. Next, find the main breaker box for your home and shut off the electricity.

2. Shut Off Water

Heavy leaking from water in light fixtures can cause extensive water damage to your home. You want to prevent even more water from entering your home by turning off your home’s main water supply.

3. Address the Leak

You can place a bucket or towels under the drip to help soak up some of the water and prevent more damage from occurring. The leak can be caused by a ceiling pipe or even a leaking toilet or bathtub. If the water is coming from a source upstairs, address the leak if possible and clean any standing water.

4. Call the Experts at SERVPRO®

You will need the help of a water damage restoration company to address any damage that occurred to your home. Contact a specialist right away to prevent the situation from getting worse.
Discovering water in light fixtures requires immediate and careful action. Remember to make everyone’s safety a priority, and don’t hesitate to get to help.

Prevent Roof Leaks During a Storm

12/30/2019 (Permalink)

Maintenance is crucial for the longevity of your roof. It's fully exposed to all elements of weather which can take a toll on your roof. What can you do if your roof is leaking? Inspecting it yourself can seem daunting, and hiring a roofer may be costly. Is there a simpler solution?

What to Do During a Storm:

If you catch a leak during a storm...

  1. Locate the Source of the Leak

If you don't have a leak detector, infrared camera, or infrared camera app, you can locate the source manually.

Leaks most commonly occur near roof protrusions such as chimneys, vents, plumbing, or anything protruding through your roofing material. Look closely for water staining. If it's currently raining you may be able to trace the drips.

    2. Prevent Further Damage

Once you've located the leak, take the necessary measures to prevent further damage. Use a bucket or pan to collect dripping water. If water is pooling in ceiling, a small puncture will relieve the pressure and allow the water to drain.

Use roofing materials such as traps, sandbags, or boards to cover the leak and prevent water from entering home.

Prevent Future Leaks to Your Roof:

    1. Check the Attic

Common attic problems could be a direct culprit to your roof leaks. During your next roof inspection, don't forget to check the attic. Signs of Mold, Soaked insulation, Stains around Nails, or Clogged Intake Vents will be clear signs.

    2. Inspect, Inspect, Inspect!

Gutters, Shingles, and Protruding Parts can all lead to leaks. Clogged gutters can cause a water back up under your shingles or other roofing materials. Shingles need to be properly secured, and missing/broken shingles need to be replaced. As we learned earlier, protruding parts are the main culprits of roof leaks. Make sure the seals are tight so water can't leak through.


If you have questions regarding roof leaks, contact SERVPRO® of Downey. We'd be happy to assist you in resolving your roof leak.

2019: The Highlights

12/27/2019 (Permalink)

2019 was certainly a year to remember, and a year that seemed to have gone by in a flash.

Records were Broken 
We saw weather fluctuate like never before. Due to that, more than 120,000 weather records were broken, from snowfall in Hawaii to a heatwave in Alaska.


California Went Up in Flames 

We thought 2018 was a bad year for Wildfires, turns out 2019 had something much bigger in store. Over 253,321 acres were burned, with some 6,872 Wildfire incidents. Most notably was the Kincade Fire, Tick Fire, & Saddle Ridge Fire.

California Cracked 
One of the strongest earthquakes in 20 years hit over near Ridgecrest. That was followed by an even bigger quake coming in hot at 7.1. Over 100,000 aftershocks riddled the area over the next couple weeks.

It has been a record breaking year. Sadly, these records came at the cost of displacing many families due to fires and other disasters. It's the end of a decade, let's not be separated by others differences but come together for our communities during these unexpected disasters. Here's to 2020!

Thomas Hoge of SERVPRO of Downey Earns Accredited ACAC Certification

12/19/2019 (Permalink)

Thomas Hoge, owner of SERVPRO® of Downey has been awarded the Council-certified Fire and Smoke Damage Consultant (CFSC) designation by the American Council for Accredited Certification (ACAC). This prestigious, board-awarded certification recognizes Hoge’s knowledge and field experience consulting on fire and smoke damage issues.

To earn the CFSC designation, Thomas passed a rigorous examination based on respected industry texts. He then submitted documented, verifiable field experience to a board of peers, earning a unanimous vote of approval.

To maintain the CFSC designation, Thomas will remain active in the field and complete 40 hours of professional development activities within the next two years. Thomas is now listed in the ACAC certificant database at www.acac.org, along with more than 3,000 ACAC certificants around the world. The database can be searched by name, company or zip code and represents a continuously updated roster of experienced indoor environmental professionals.

The CFSC designation is accredited by the Council of Engineering and Scientific Specialty Boards (CESB), a nationally recognized third-party accreditation body. For more information, visit www.acac.org.

How Fire Sprinklers Benefit Your Commercial Building

12/19/2019 (Permalink)

The last thing a business owner wants is a Fire at his commercial property. Commercial fires can lead to injury or death of employees, damaged merchandise and equipment, lost records, and possibly, the permanent closure of the business.

To improve fire safety in the workplace, a fire sprinklers of any kind are crucial for commercial buildings and the safety of those inside.

Are there requirements for commercial buildings and the fire sprinklers that are installed? Fireline.com outlines sprinkler system requirements on their website for business owners.

According to the website, here are some of the requirements of the National Fire Protection Association for commercial sprinkler systems:

  • Buildings more than 55 feet high must have sprinkler systems.
  • Any new building with a fire area of more than 5000 square feet must have sprinklers.
  • Fire pumps should be installed to increase the amount of pressure in a single sprinkler system.
  • Fire pumps should be housed in a separate building whenever possible.
  • Water supply control valves should be accessible for easy operation.

There is never a convenient time for a fire disaster to strike a business. But SERVPRO of Downey understands that in the event of a fire, it is important to provide excellent service while minimizing the disruption to the daily operations of the business. We are always here to help in the event of a commercial fire. Learn more about our expert commercial restoration services

Endure Winter Allergies

12/2/2019 (Permalink)

Tis' the season...for getting sick. Many this time of year experience the cold or flu. Such symptoms couldn't come at a more inconvenient time for people.

As much as we hate getting sick, we may bring it on ourselves. How so?

A recent study by a New York based Medical University showed that Christmas Trees could be affecting our allergies. Mold spores are found on Christmas Trees. A connection can be made there.

Don't be alarmed, mold spores are naturally found on organic materials like a tree. When those spores are aggravated due to temperatures or moisture, it can begin to cause health effects.

Here's what we should remember about this Christmas Tree Syndrome:

  • If we don't have any sensitive allergies, we probably don't have to worry about it.
  • If we do have said allergies, use an air purifier, get rid of the tree as soon as you're done with it, or even better get an artificial one.

Most importantly, stay healthy this holiday season.

What to Pack During an Emergency Evacuation

11/1/2019 (Permalink)

During the last few weeks we've seen Wild Fires over take various parts of California. From Sonoma County to LA County these fires continue to displace people from their homes. With all the stress, we may not know what we need (besides our Go-Bag) during an emergency evacuation.

The LA City Emergency Service Department gave some sound advice to help those who need to evacuate. These tips also apply to whatever emergency situation you're in, including Wild Fires, a Hurricane, Black Outs, or Earthquakes.

Keep the six “P’s” ready:

  • People and pets
  • Papers, phone numbers, and important documents
  • Prescriptions, vitamins, and eyeglasses
  • Pictures and irreplaceable memorabilia
  • Personal computers
  • “Plastic” and cash

These tips can easily fit to your needs and type of emergency.

Of course, you'll always want to have a Go-Bag on hand if you'll be displaced for a lengthy amount of time. These tips give us a great overview for what we need to grab when the evacuation alert goes off.

For more evacuation or emergency tips, visit FEMA or our other blog articles.

Cleaning-up After Marijuana Grow Operations

11/1/2019 (Permalink)

With the increased legalization of Marijuana, many are starting grow operations of their own. Such operations are concealed from the knowledge of other residents and landlords. 

The concealed nature of growing marijuana promotes toxic levels of mold due to warm, humid conditions that exist. Chemicals are also used in the process, making a grow operation a toxic environment. 

Due to such environments, Law Enforcement who shut down these illegal operations suffer from exposure to such mold and chemicals. PPE and Respirators must be used to avoid contact. These safety measures help protect ones health and odors from sticking on clothing. 

Risks involved in growing operations include:

  • Damaging moisture
  • Toxic levels of mold spores
  • Poor electrical installation
  • Toxic chemical & Biological contamination
  • Offensive odor

Landlords who are faced with the daunting task of cleaning up grow operations do not need to worry. SERVPRO® of Downey specializes in cleaning and remediation. We closely follow IICRC guidelines on Mold and Remediation for Illicit Drugs. If you are faced with a grow operation clean-up, don't go at it alone, call SERVPRO® of Downey. 

Practice Safe Cooking Habits this Holiday Season

10/24/2019 (Permalink)

A cooked turkey is on a table with other food items. The text reads "lets' talk turkey safety" Kitchen & Cooking Safety

According to the US Fire Administration, over 51% of home fires resulted from cooking. No doubt the risk of a fire goes up during the holiday season where cooking plays a prominent part in the festivities. Practicing safe cooking habits in the kitchen can help lower that percentage.

Protect Your Family with These Safe Cooking Tips:

  • Keep children out of the kitchen. Many hot foods & liquids create a high risk area for burns.
  • Don't leave cooking unattended. Items can overheat or spillover, this is especially dangerous with gas stoves.    
  • Use caution when using fryers and working with hot oil. Operate at a safe distance in case oil catches fire.
  • Keep flammable items away from heat sources. These can include, Pot Holders, Wooden/Plastic Utensils, Towels, or Food Packaging.
  • Make sure smoke alarms have batteries and are working.
  • If possible, keep a fire extinguisher in kitchen area.

Above all, use common sense to avoid injuries or fires in your kitchen. Keep you and your family safe this holiday season by practicing safe kitchen habits.

Follow @SERVPROdowney for regular updates on safety in the home and workplace.

Get Ready to ShakeOut!

10/10/2019 (Permalink)

In 2018, 10 million people in California participated in the Great ShakeOut. The Great ShakeOut is the California's largest Earthquake Drill. This year it will be taking place October 17th, 2019.

Why Participate?

California, more than any other state, has the highest Earthquake risk. It can strike when you are at home, school, work, or vacation. The ShakeOut has also been organized to encourage you to examine your emergency preparedness plans and supplies, and to secure your space so no one gets injured or anything gets damaged.

How to Participate:

To react properly means practicing. Gather your family, co-workers, or school and Drop, Cover, and Hold On. That is what the ShakeOut is all about. Practicing this, will help you respond when a real Earthquake strikes.

To learn more about the Great ShakeOut, visit their website. Follow Fema, ReadyGov, and SERVPRO® of Downey for updates.

Fire Prevention Week: October 2019

9/26/2019 (Permalink)

Have you thought about what you will do in a fire? Our actions before and during a fire can influence the outcome, whether good or bad.

Each year 1 week in October is dedicated to Fire Prevention. Why? Because fires occur everyday and put people's lives at risk. 

The theme for this year is "Not Every Hero Wears a Cape. Plan and Practice Your Escape!" The theme will teach children, teens, and elderly ones important actions that will help keep ourselves and those around us safe. Everyone needs to take these safety measures.

Did you know?: You may have as little as 1 to 2 minutes to escape safely from the time the smoke alarm sounds.

We can see the need to plan and practice if we're to successfully make it out in time. Be the hero of your family, and make a plan & practice it. Stay updated with Fire Prevention Week by following @NFPA & @SERVPROdowney on social media for tips all week long.

Get Involved in Your Community's Preparedness

9/20/2019 (Permalink)

Has your community experienced a disaster? According to a 2018 survey, it found that 41% of Americans say they're not prepared for a disaster.

What about you? Throughout this month we've learned some great tips from #NationalPreparednessMonth on how to prepare ourselves and our families for a disaster. As #NatlPrep month wraps up, how can you continue to prepare?

Get Involved in Your Community's Preparedness

Most cities have first responders and organizations in place to respond during a disaster. Get to know those organizations in your community. You can find them here.

Take a CERT class, First Aid class, or CPR/AED. These life saving skills come in handy during a disaster for those that need medical assistance. You can find a list of classes in your community here.

Most importantly, Don't Stop Preparing. We may not know when the next disaster will happen, but we can know we can be prepared. #BeReady and #PrepareNow. Teach your children, and tell your friends and family. The more people that are prepared, the faster the community can get back on their feet.

Teach Youth to Prepare for Disasters

9/13/2019 (Permalink)

If you are a parent, no doubt your child's safety is of upmost concern to you. You worry about them at school, at their friends house, and when they play outside. 

When it comes to safety, your preparedness has a direct impact on your child. If you are not prepared, your child isn't prepared. So how can you teach your child about preparedness?

Review Your Emergency Plan with Your Children

Have a plan, and be sure your children are aware of it. Help them prepare their own Go Bag, and include their favorite toy or book. If they have medication, be sure that's included too.

Keep your children prepared with this Activity Book, or with these Ready 2 Help cards.

Create a Communication Plan

If your children are teens or pre-teens, teach them how to communicate in case the family isn't all together. Who will they contact? Do they have an emergency back up contact? Include their social media and that of their schools in the communication plan. These allow you to get fast updates.

In case of a disaster, your children can be safe. Teach them to #BeReady and #PrepareNow!

Make a Plan to Prepare for Disasters

9/6/2019 (Permalink)

There's nothing like when a good plan comes together. One of the best plans someone can make is to plan for disasters.

Ask yourself these questions: What will I do if there's a fire at my home or work? What if there's an extended power outage? If my family aren't together, how will we regroup? Am I prepared to evacuate and leave?

Your answer to those questions might say whether you need a plan or not. What's the first step? 

Have a conversation with your family, make a plan, and practice it. Follow alerts on social media from emergency & weather responders. 

We never know when a disaster will happen, being prepared will help reinforce our families safety. How do we teach our youth this fundamental? Our next article will focus on that.

Save Early for Disaster Costs

9/3/2019 (Permalink)

Emergencies always seem to occur at the most inopportune time. A medical bill, vehicle maintenance, or home emergency can throw someone for a loop.

Aside from everyday type emergencies, community emergencies can occur. These may include flooding, earthquake damage, hurricane, or wildfire. In the event of emergencies, do you have a plan?

The first week of National Preparedness Month is focused on saving early for disasters. The #1 way to save for emergencies is to have an Emergency Fund. Saving isn't easy in this day and age. But once you realize how much you can save, that can act as a buffer for when an emergency does occur.

Saving money means you have to be organized. Another way to be organized is to have all paper work in order. Insurance policies, identification (Social, Birth Certificate, Passport), and Pet documents will need to be gathered as well as financial documentation and medical documents. 

It may seem like a burden, but the bigger burden is when an emergency comes and you're unprepared. Stay prepared and save early for disaster costs.

Next week: Make a Plan to Prepare for Disasters

Prepared, Not Scared

8/26/2019 (Permalink)

This September is National Preparedness Month. The theme this month is Prepared, Not Scared.

Disasters and Emergencies can be scary, being prepared helps alleviate some of that fear. That's what #NationalPrepMonth is all about, being prepared for the unexpected. 

National Preparedness Month is broken up into 4 weeks. Each week we'll be posting a blog on the given topic.

  • Week 1: Save Early for Disaster Costs.
  • Week 2: Make a Plan to Prepare for Disasters.
  • Week 3: Teach Youth to Prepare for Disasters.
  • Week 4: Get Involved in Your Community's Preparedness.

Follow the conversation online on our website. Be sure to follow our social media to stay up to date with all things #NationalPrepMonth like Blog Posts and helpful information we'll be posting on social media. #PrepareNow

Cleaning & Sanitizing Your Commercial Kitchen

8/15/2019 (Permalink)

The cleaning of a commercial kitchen in Downey.

According to the CDC, 1 in 6 Americans get sick from contaminated foods and beverages each year, while 3,000 die. 

That statistic gives proof that restaurant & kitchen cleanliness is crucial. That's a fact whether it's a school cafeteria or a 5-star Michelin restaurant. Kitchen managers do well to follow strict food safety regulations when it comes to handling food in their kitchen and maintaining a sanitary commercial kitchen.

Aside from the strict internal regulations on cleaning, for facilities to ensure all areas of their restaurants are properly cleaned they may look into these trouble areas:

The Kitchen Floor: A clean kitchen floor usually means a clean kitchen. These floors sustain foot traffic, fallen food, and grease from machines. If not cleaned properly they can become a breeding ground for bacteria and vermin. Thorough sweeping, from corner to corner, under all equipment and washed with cleaning solution will ensure a sanitary floor. 

The Refrigerator: Daily cleaning of refrigerators, walk in or stand alone, will prevent cross-contamination of foods. Wiping down these units will also prevent mildew, a type of fungus.

Dumpster Zones: Although dumpsters are typically on the exterior of a restaurant, they can easily get over looked in the process of cleaning. The cleaning of this area can prevent foul odors, vermin, and hard grease and oil stains. It can greatly improve the appearance of your facility.

Remember, a cleaner kitchen is a healthier kitchen. 

How to Limit Toilet Overflow Damage

8/5/2019 (Permalink)

No one wants to deal with a flooded toilet. If you experience a toilet overflow at your Downey home, immediate steps should be taken.

  • Contact a plumber upon noticing signs of a blocked drain line and take measures to limit sewer damage.
  • Contact SERVPRO® to help mitigate and clean the water overflow.

Contaminated Water

Toilet water is usually contaminated water. Restoration professionals categorize water damage into three categories:

  • Category 1: clean water, originating from supply lines
  • Category 2: contaminated water, from showers or appliances
  • Category 3: contaminated water containing solid waste

Water from a flooded toilet is likely either Category 2 or 3. Disinfection is needed for both categories due to the contaminated water present.

Damaged Building Materials

Porous materials such as carpet or drywall cannot be completely disinfected, and may pose a continued risk of microbial growth. Mitigation experts usually recommend tearing out these materials prior to disinfecting and drying the area. 

Secondary Damage Risks

The more time that passes, the more chance of secondary damage occurring. The most common forms of additional damage are:

  • Bacteria
  • Staining
  • Mold

The faster the damage is addressed the less likely further damage can occur.

If you are not sure how to handle sewer damage, don't panic. Call SERVPRO® of Downey -(562) 392-3007

Wildfire Season: 2019

8/1/2019 (Permalink)

Last year's fire season was one for the records. The Camp Fire, in Butte County, was one of the most expensive and deadliest fires to date. Then there was the Mendocino Complex Fire, one of the largest of the many fires of 2018. 

This year, our hopes are for the 2019 fire season to be nonexistent really. However, recent data shows how it's possible that 2019 will be much worse than 2018.

The real heat of the fire season is August-September. Due to the lack of rain and increased heat and drought, the circumstances are perfect for the fires to flair up again. If these conditions continue, it's possible that these wildfire prone areas can double in size as time goes on.

The real heroes of any fire season are the firefighters. Due to the recent prolonged government shut down and recruitment issues, there is a real shortage of firefighters this wildfire season.

Now let's go around the globe, California isn't the only place wildfire season strikes. Wildfires are now raging in Siberia/Russia, Greenland, Alaska, and Canada. These fires are so great the smoke can even be seen from space.

It's not looking good for 2019. What can you do? Follow your counties direction on wildfire preparation and evacuation. We can fight these fires together.

Surviving the Summer Heat

6/21/2019 (Permalink)

The bbq's, beach days, pool parties, & relaxation makes summer a special time. However, summer days can be unbearable due to the heat. No matter how much water you drink, or how much ice cream you eat, cooling down just seems impossible.

The key to surviving summer heat is safety. Follow these tips to endure this summer in Southern California.

  • Stay Hydrated throughout the day.
  • Avoid caffeine and alcohol. These stimulate blood flow, causing your body to heat up and use more water rapidly.
  • If working outside, take frequent breaks in the shade.
  • If you begin to get a headache due to the heat, drink more water, and rest in a cool area out of the sun.
  • Check on pets, make sure they have water, and if possible keep them indoors as the ground outside will be hot for them to rest on.
  • Do Not leave children or animals inside a hot car. Even if temperatures are at 75 degrees, it can reach up to 120 in a matter of minutes if in direct sunlight.

As things start to heat up, we wish you and your family a fun & safe time in the summer sun. 

3 Important Steps After a Fire Affects Your Commercial Business

5/31/2019 (Permalink)

When your business in Downey or the surrounding LA/OC area is damaged by a fire, what to do next can seem daunting. The goal for every business owner is to start the restoration process so as to limit any business interruption.

1. Financial Responsibility

Before the process of cleaning and restoring your building can begin, it's crucial to know what your policy covers. Generally, your fire insurance should cover the costs of property loss, business interruption, smoke cleaning. However, some cost might fall on you as a business owner.

2. Protect Your Business

The next step is protecting your business. Boarding up your building can prevent wind and rain from causing further damage and can also help to deter thieves and homeless from entering your business.

3. Restoring Your Building

Restoring your business can now take place. Affected areas will be repaired or replaced.
Smoke odor and soot are removed from the building with specialized odor equipment.
A thorough cleaning and sanitizing will take place throughout your building. Lastly, any items that were damaged will either be restored or replaced.

Understanding the steps to take after a fire can help you feel more confident and prepared for the restoration process. If your business has been damaged by a fire, don't panic, let SERVPRO® of Downey get your business back in order.

Pet Safety During Fire Evacuation

5/20/2019 (Permalink)

Practice the evacuation plan several times with your pet.

If a fire occurs in your home in Downey or the surrounding LA area, your first priority is to get yourself and your family members out safely. While you should leave belongings behind until a fire restoration company can retrieve them, you will likely not want to leave your pets behind. It is important you have a plan in place to evacuate your pets in case a fire emergency should occur. Start by including your pets into your home escape plan.

5 Tasks to Prepare Your Pet

Preparation is key when it comes to protecting your pets in a fire. In case your pets are in an unsafe location that you or your other family members can’t get to, there are several steps you can take to better the chance of their rescue:

1. Keep your pet in rooms or areas that are easily accessible to fire fighters. 

2. Update your pet alert window cling on the front window of your home. 

3. Set aside a disaster supply kit just for your pet. Include any medication or dog supplies you may need. 

4. Place important pet ownership documents and proof of vaccinations in a fire box that you can easily retrieve.  

5. Teach your pets the “Come” command so you can easily direct them towards you in an emergency. 

Creating Your Pet Evacuation Plan 

In addition to these important pet safety tasks, you will need to create a pet evacuation plan. Assign an individual or two to be in charge of retrieving the pets. If your pets are located in a specific part of the house during the night, identify several different routes to that location. Practice the evacuation plan several times with your pet. 

In the event of an evacuation due to a wildfire, have arrangements in place for your pet to stay. 


Keep your pets and family members safe by having a well thought out plan if a fire emergency does occur. Never risk your safety or the safety of a family member to save your house pet. While your pets might be able to escape safely on their own, you can increase the chance of their rescue with these tips!

Does Dead Mold Need to Be Removed?

4/22/2019 (Permalink)

Something that's just as bad as mold is the information we find on the internet. It's not always accurate.

This is especially true with the topic of mold. It's often misunderstood, as is the process of how to safely eradicate mold. This is primary because of the lack of regulation in the mold remediation industry.

Here are two common misconceptions in the mold industry:

1) Bleach Kills Mold...When bleach comes into contact with organic material its effectiveness is greatly reduced. The amount of bleach and concentration you'll need to remove mold will most likely damage the material or structure before killing the mold.

Keep in mind: Bleach is not addressing the 'cause' of the mold. If moisture and humidity issues are still present, those would need to be addressed before the mold.

2) Dead Mold Doesn't Need to Be Removed... First off, dead mold is dormant or not actively growing. It needs moisture and humidity, as stated above, for it to flourish.

Here's what some "mold professionals" are doing. They offer a "simple, kill in place solution". It may be a sort of fogging or spray. After they perform this they do not clean up the dead mold. Why? Because they know they can convince you the mold is no longer harmful. But they know it will grow back once moisture is reintroduced, and if it grows back guess who you're gonna call again? Yup those guys.

Key Takeaway:

  • There is no one solution to kill mold. The cause must be treated, then the mold is to be professionally mitigated so all mold, dead and growing, can be removed.

For more information on Mold contact us at: (562) 392-3007

Marijuana Smoke: What Damage is it Doing to Your Home?

3/11/2019 (Permalink)

The smell of marijuana is no longer just reserved for clubs, venues, and shady parking lots. Due to marijuana's increasing legalization, more and more people are having to explain the smell to their kids.

When it comes to a home, what kind of damage does this smoke present?

An Important fact! - Smoke is made up of solid & liquid particulates and gases. Due to its chemical compound, all smoke leaves residue.

Consider for a moment a home of a long-time cigarette smoker. What is the result of a person smoking 1-2 packs a day? A obvious smell of ash, yellowing of ceilings and walls, and ruined carpets. The home goes through an extensive cleaning before it can be sold.

What though might we say of someone who smokes marijuana? There are a few variables to consider.


1) How often do they smoke?
2) Where do they smoke?(single room, around the house, upstairs/downstairs)
3) Are they growing marijuana in the home?

It's true marijuana smoke does not linger as much as cigarette smoke does, and usually dissipates within a few hours. Even if the smoking was concentrated to a single room though, smoke could still penetrate dry wall and under the door. Growing marijuana plants pose a different type of threat, due to the lights and humidity requirements, such an atmosphere encourages mold and the possibility of a house fire.

An Important Fact! - Smoke. Leaves. Residue. Even if marijuana is not being smoked as much as cigarettes, residue is still being collected on walls, ceilings, furniture, clothes, food, and children's toys.

A recent study found that the indoor particles of marijuana smoke, between 200-600 ug/m3, are equivalent to particulate concentrations of a wild fire or industrial pollution.

An Important Fact! - People are breathing in wildfires in their own home. This could cause serious cardiovascular and respiratory disease.

What Action is Necessary?

A thorough cleaning of the home once a year to clean off the smoke residue. This would entail the cleaning of all walls, ceilings, furniture, and floors(carpets/tiles).

Specialty O-Zone and Hydroxyl equipment can be used to clean the air, removing all harmful particulates.

Overall if at all possible, limit or remove the threat of marijuana smoke from your home.

The ARkStorm vs Los Angeles

2/22/2019 (Permalink)

Across the nation various types of natural disasters effect many. We in California don't have great experience in dealing with something like a Tornado or Hurricane. We do in fact get Earthquakes and Wildfires. These can be just as devastating as any other type of disaster.

Scientists and field experts though are predicting something of greater proportions... "the big one". No this is not referring to the big earthquake people have been talking about for years. This is referring to a rare mega-storm.

It's called ARkStorm (Atmospheric River Storm) This storm could potentially last for weeks causing around $725 billion in damage across California. Currently, progress is being made to strengthen the LA County Dam system. City Water infrastructures are also being looked at to improve drainage in cities and limit flooding.


What Can You Do to Prepare?


News of a storm of this size can seem intimidating, so what can the average person do? Be prepared for all possible scenarios. This will ensure your safety, the safety of your family, and/or your business. Have your emergency bags ready. Since the possibility of a disaster now involves water, we will need to update our bag with supplies that could withstand heavy rain. Follow the direction of local authorities, and stay up-to-date with social media. These preparations could be life saving.

How Worried Should You Be?


The chances of a storm of this size happening are about 50-50. Those odds are enough to get people to prepare, as we see the cities are already doing so. So in line with the cities, we do what we can to prepare.

Then again, the challenge of predicting such storms is scale. "A mega-flood is impossible to predict," - David Reid, Water Historian.

To find out more about this storm and preparations, visit the original article.

Document Restoration

2/15/2019 (Permalink)

Disasters can take allot from your home. Your belongings, family heirlooms, your furniture, piece of mind, and even your important documents. Our job is to make your house a home again and restore back to you what's possible. 

Many don't realize just because their documents are water damaged doesn't mean they can't be restored. Aside from restoring your documents, we can help you prepare for a disaster by backing your documents up. Whether big or small, we help hospitals, schools, and government agencies to make sure they are protected no matter what disaster may come their way.

Contact SERVPRO® of Downey for more information.

Tip: Store all your important documents in a fire proof file cabinet. Doing so can save you allot headaches.

You May Need a H.A.T.

2/14/2019 (Permalink)

Let's say over the weekend, you get a water leak. By the time you get to work on Monday all the water is gone and the walls and carpets look and feel dry to the touch. 

So, there’s nothing to be real concerned about…. The walls and carpet are a little damp, but they’ll dry out in a few days. How, though, can you be sure that everything is really dry?

SERVPRO of Downey along with Science can answer that question, but mostly science. In order to properly dry out an area, you need a H.A.T (Humidity// Air// Temperature). By using a simple formula, you can be certain of the drying process.

SERVPRO of Downey, uses the most modern equipment. Everything from Moisture Meters to Thermal Imaging Cameras. This type of technology and our expertise gives the assurance that what feels dry is really dry.

Standing Roof Water

2/14/2019 (Permalink)

Is standing water on a roof a real problem?? You might think... it'll evaporate and go away.

Water weighs over 8lbs per gallon. Imagine two or three inches of water on the roof. That extra weight causes a real strain on the roof. This can lead to a collapse that will be very costly or worst yet injury or death.

This is a major problem with simple solution: Inspect the roof and clean off the debris. Taking the time to do that now, will save you heartache and money in the future.

These are easy steps to implement : (1) Inspection (2) Remove debris and clear drains and downspouts . Follow this advice and keep the roof over your head and your hard earned money in your pocket.

Not comfortable accessing your roof? We do free inspections.

Prevent Home Fires: Dryer Vents

1/28/2019 (Permalink)

Clogged Vent

For most of us, convenience is everything. This is especially true in our homes. Imagine where we would be without the air conditioner, dishwasher, or microwave. You may remember the days of collecting all your quarters and going down to the Laundromat to do laundry. However, there was a benefit to that.

The benefit: not having to clean your dryer vents. Hardly any of us think about cleaning our vents or even know we should be. The fact of it is Lint accumulates in our dryer vents overtime. We can see a sample of this when we reload our dryer and clean out the small vent trap. Now imagine that on a larger scale. Say you've lived in the same home for 10-15 years+ and never had the vents cleaned...They'd be clogged!  

The truth of the matter is we sometimes take convenience for granted. That mistake could cost us our home, or even our life. Around 2,900 Dryer Fires are reported each year. How can we bring this statistic down? Clean our dryer vents.

How do you know if you need your vents cleaned?

  • Your laundry may take longer to dry. 
  • The dryer may be hotter to the touch than usual. 
  • A burning smell may be present when the dryer is running. 

Where do you start? Professionals. Although DIY kits are sold, nothing beats the expertise and assured safety of a professional. Find out more dryer vent information here: https://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/outreach/clothes_dryers.html

Top 3 Places to Find Water Damage

1/28/2019 (Permalink)

Take this scenario: You come home from a long day at work. You make yourself some dinner, relax a bit, and enjoy the rest of the evening. It's now 10pm and you decide to go downstairs to get some water before bed.

Let me tell you...You got water alright.

You turn on the lights and your kitchen is soaked! The culprit? Your dishwasher. With all the water running from your sink and dishwasher your kitchen becomes a popular location for water damage. Where are other popular places to find water damage? 

  1. Roof: Your roof is a huge protection to your home from the outside elements. The slightest damage to your roof can leave you exposed to internal damage. If you have multi-story home, damage can penetrate not only the 2nd floor but the 1st one too.

          What can you do? Have your roof inspected by a professional on a regular basis. About every 3-5yrs depending on the age of your roof and the elements it's exposed to like, rain, hail, or snow.

      2. Bathroom: This room, much like the kitchen, has allot of water running through it as well. You have your sink, toilet, and shower. But unlike the kitchen, Black Water aka Sewage Water, can be a real mess.

          What can you do? Inspect around your shower & toilet. Look for leaks in the caulking or moisture spots. Under the sink, check the pipes. Make sure they are all tightened.

      3. Kitchen: As was stated, Kitchens are notorious for water damage. Your Dishwasher, Sink, & Refrigerator can be time bombs waiting to burst. 

         What can you do? Check your pipes under the sink, much like your bathroom. If your refrigerator/freezer has a Water & Ice dispenser, check under the fridge for leaking water. As for your Dishwasher, check the escape valve that connects to your garbage disposal. When all the water leaves the dishwasher, it escapes to that valve.    

Water Damage doesn't discriminate, it can happen to anyone & at anytime. In fact, the scenario mentioned at the outset happened to one of our own employees. If you find yourself in a similar scenario, SERVPRO® of Downey is just a phone call away from assisting you.

Water Remediation: Where Problems Arise

1/28/2019 (Permalink)

Having a water damage is a difficult thing to go through. The damage to your home & belongings can bring stress on any homeowner. You want your home back to normal as fast as possible, that's our job as a water remediation company. But when other water remediation companies don't effectively perform their services, the work can get prolonged. 

Here's some examples of the most overlooked areas:

          1. Moisture Mapping

Water can spread everywhere. Remediation companies come to track it to see where exactly they need to dry. However, when a company fails to locate all the wet areas, that moisture can still cause further damage. A thorough inspection and detailed moisture map will ensure all areas are documented for drying.

          2. Drying Time

All areas can be documented, but if the area wasn't dried for the proper amount of time your water damage will still linger. Ensuring the area is completely dried can save damage to your home now and in the future.

          3. Improper Drying

Even with all the moisture properly documented and dried for the given amount of days, issues can still occur if improper drying methods are used. Examples include when drying equipment isn't properly placed, when the equipment gets shut off, or when common household fans are used.

-

The remediation and drying process is a real science. Ensure you hire a company that's properly trained and certified to provide you with the best services for you and your home. 

Types of Flooding

1/28/2019 (Permalink)

Flooding is said to have killed more than any other natural disaster. We see it here in America and it's no doubt why, it's the most common natural disaster. But how are floods classified?

Flash Floods: These types of floods provide very little warning. They are accompanied with heavy downpours and fast moving lethal devastation.

River Floods: These floods occur when the water capacity of a river overflows. This type of flooding happens over a period of rainfall. Considerable damage can occur, yet prevention is possible as the river nears its flood stage.

Urban Flooding: This flooding occurs in well populated cities and metropolitan areas due to the lack of drainage. It can be brought on by Flash flooding or River flooding.

-

If any type of flooding threatens your home, follow the warnings of your local authorities. Doing so will keep you and your family safe.

How El Niño Has Disrupted Lives

1/4/2019 (Permalink)

"What El Niño?" That's a common sentence you may hear or even express yourself. "El No Rain-o," is how one friend put it to me. Sentiments like these are understandable. For one, El Niño storms are highly unpredictable & difficult to forecast. The weather report will say one thing, but then the storm takes a completely opposite turn. Then there's our location, Southern California. Certain aspects of the storm will effect us either more or less then other locations.

Frankly, we didn't see as much of El Niño as we all heard over recent years. But just because we may not have felt much of the effects, does it mean it was any less powerful? Does it mean that El Niño won't effect your life? Let's consider the facts.

The Flooding:

Paraguay - A number of 130,000 had to flee their homes due to flooding. The country hadn't seen such flooding due to El Niño in 50 years. The country suffered the worst in Asuncion, where the country's main river is located.

Brazil - 40 towns were displaced and forced to leave their homes due to flooding. The local rivers overflowed as the heavy rains came down. In Uruguay thousands spent days homeless until the water levels subsided.  

The Drought:

Consider the other side of the coin. In India, the drought is causing local farmers into day-labor jobs. Millions continue to struggle as they deal with the lack of rain. The main topic for concern though is the Sugar. Since the crops aren't getting the proper amount of rain, a sugar shortage is expected, meaning higher sugar prices.

South Africa is suffering a similar story. South Africa grows and exports Corn for themselves and neighboring country's. However, due to the lack of rain, crops are not growing like before. The cost of corn in South Africa has risen, much like the sugar in India. They've been forced to import it to deal with the demand.

The Atmosphere:

El Niño effects humans in another way, the air we breath. The NOAA recently noted quite an increase in Carbon Dioxide the past year. Think about it... Plants grow and absorb the carbon dioxide in the air. But if it's not raining, plants can't grow, and if plants can't grow the carbon dioxide can't be absorbed. 

It's evident El Niño has done some damage. It caused major flooding, a drought, loss of homes, increased vegetation prices, & polluted air. We may not experience the full effects of all these things, but we can't deny the existence of El Niño & the lives it has disrupted. This weather phenomenon is very real. 

Notice the Unnoticeable

1/3/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage isn't always noticeable to the naked eye. In fact, it's usually quite sneaky and is found in the most innocent of places. Though sneaky and almost unnoticeable it may be, it can cause massive amounts of damage.

Make it a habit to check these trouble spots for leaks. These trouble spots tend to be hoses. These hoses are connected to your Washing Machine, Ice Maker, and Dishwasher.

Most hoses are rubber, which deteriorates with age. A crack in the hose or rupture can spill gallons of water in a very short time. Take time to inspect these hoses for wear signs.

Proper Maintenance includes:

  • Making sure hoses are tightly secured.
  • Use Teflon tape to ensure a water-sealed connection.
  • Use a Zip-Tie or Duct Tape as extra security for your discharge hose.
  • A Drip Pan might be installed under your Washing Machine to catch any leaks before it hits the ground.

Stop the water before it causes damage. Take the necessary action to prevent it as soon as possible. SERVPRO® of Downey is here to help if it's too late.

Enduring Seasonal Allergies

12/17/2018 (Permalink)

Tis' the season...for getting sick. Many this time of year experience the cold or flu. Such symptoms couldn't come at a more inconvenient time for people.

As much as we hate getting sick, we may bring it on ourselves. How so?

A recent study by a New York based Medical University showed that Christmas Trees could be affecting our allergies. These allergy symptoms could be due to mold spores found on Christmas Trees.

Don't be alarmed, mold spores are naturally found on organic materials like a tree. When those spores are aggravated due to temperatures or moisture, said symptoms can take effect.

Here's what we should remember about this Christmas Tree Syndrome:

  • If we don't have any sensitive allergies, we probably don't have to worry about it.
  • If we do have said allergies, use an air purifier, get rid of the tree as soon as you're done with it, or even better get an artificial one.

Most importantly, stay healthy this holiday season.

2018: The Highlights

12/6/2018 (Permalink)

People started to realize in 2017 that this wasn't the best year they've had. Many of us looked to 2018 with bright eyes and hope as we tried to forget the many memories of 2017. Now, as 2018 comes to a close I think we're all thinking the same thing again...Let's make 2019 a year to remember. 

However, let's not forget some of the things that befell us in 2018. We had Hurricane Florence, Fires in California, & Earthquakes in Alaska.

What did we see during these times? We saw disaster, desolation, & destruction. But we overcame because we also saw people come together, to be there for each other, to lend a hand. 

We've overcome allot in 2017/2018. Who knows what 2019 will have in store. Yet, no matter what it throws at us, we can all be determined to come together to be there for each other. SERVPRO® of Downey wishes you all the best for this next year to come! 

SERVPRO® of Downey Wants You!!!

12/3/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Downey is looking to fill a Full-Time Position for a Admin Assistant. The position is from 8am - 5pm with the possibility of working overtime when required to get the job done. It's a high demanding, fast-paced environment which requires ones to, at times, wear several different hats in order to get the job done.

JOB REQUIREMENTS:

  • Knowledgeable & Efficient in DryBook and Xactimate (Willing to Train)
  • Experienced with SERVPROs Job Uploads & Audit Process
  • Computer Literate (MUST be Skilled with Microsoft Office)
  • Strong Written & Verbal Communication Skills
  • Detail-Oriented, Organized, & Excellent Time Management Skills.
  • Ability to Follow Instructions Well & Make Decisions with Minimum Supervision.
  • Being Trust-Worthy Hard Worker
  • Having a Positive Attitude & Aptitude to Learn New Things.
  • Data Entry Skills
  • Ability to Get Along with Others & is a Team Player
  • Ability to Multi-Task & Prioritize with Minimum Supervision.
  • Ability to Pass a Full National Background Check & Drug Test.
  • Fluent in English - Reading, Writing, & Speaking.

Ideal Candidates Will Also Meet the Following:

         Bilingual in Spanish, Korean, or Chinese

If all or most of these requirements apply to you, please submit a resume via email: mcarpenter@SERVPROdowney.com

Interviews will be scheduled upon further review. 

SERVPRO® of Downey Wants You!!

12/3/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Downey is looking to fill positions in our Production Team - Water, Fire, Mold, & Pack Out. We're interested in team players and someone who can handle strenuous physical work. 

JOB REQUIREMENTS:

SERVPRO® of Downey is an Emergency Service Company. Candidates must be available for "On Call", Weekends, & After-Hours 24/7. -REQUIRED

Detail Oriented, Organized, Having Excellent Time Management, & Communication Skills.

Computer Literate

Ability to Follow Instructions

Being a Trust-Worthy Hard Worker

Having a Positive Attitude & Aptitude to Learn New Things.

Having a Professional Appearance/Demeanor, Neat & Clean-Cut, As You Will Personally Be Interacting With Our Customers.

Non-Smoking Employees Due to Respirator Equipment Requirement.

Ability to Pass a FULL National Background Check & Drug Test.

Having Valid Drivers License with Clean Driving Record - NO DUI

Ideal Candidates Will Meet the Following:

  • IICRC, WRT, ASD, AMRT Certified
  • SERVPRO DryBook (Knowledge & Training is a plus)
  • Ability to Speak, Read, & Write in English (Spanish - Korean - Chinese is a plus)
  • Having Construction and/or Mitigation Background
  • Ability to Interface with Customers

If all or most of these requirements apply to you, please submit a resume via email: mcarpenter@SERVPROdowney.com

Interviews will be scheduled upon further review.

Effective School Sanitation

12/3/2018 (Permalink)

We want our children in a safe and healthy environment and school cleanliness contributes to that. Schools get regularly cleaned by the staff. However unexpected things happen that can threaten the cleanliness of the school.

For instance...

  • Sewage Back-Up
    This exceeds the common clogged toilet. Broken or cracked pipes can leak sewage and threaten the health safety of the students and staff.
  • Air Duct Cleaning
    Every 3-5 years air ducts should be cleaned. This cleaning will eliminate airborne substances that can cause common allergy symptoms, and improve the overall air quality of the structure.
  • Deep Clean Sanitizing 
    An annual deep clean will do wonders for any environment. This will include wiping down surfaces and deep carpet cleaning. All cleaning products are non irritant. Meaning those sensitive to smells will most likely be unaffected.

Our cleaning follows the same EPA standards for cleanliness. Such cleanliness can also prevent pest problems. This keeps your children's school environment clean and healthy.

If you're interested in these services for your home, business, or school, call (562) 392-3007

What Kind of Person Am I Hiring?

11/5/2018 (Permalink)

With most industries, there's always scam artists. People who want to take advantage of other people. We deal with allot of people in the restoration industry and have come across our fair share of scam artists too.

We make it our highest priority that who we're doing business with shares our same level of customer service. The customer deserves to be informed and protected. Companies who offer referral fees could undermine our focus to put the customer first, we refuse to work with them.

Consider this real life example of Jose Manual Villa, a public adjuster. He stole a total of $400,000 from fire damage victims. He did not have the customers concern first. (http://www.insurance.ca.gov/0400-news/0100-press-releases/2016/release103-16.cfm)

We avoid people and businesses that operate that way and do our best to make sure the customer avoids them too.

Don't Let Remediation Be Your Nightmare

11/5/2018 (Permalink)

We know the feeling, the feeling after a long day of work. The feeling that you just can't take on anything else. You've finally go on that vacation, you clear your mind and rejuvenate your body. Then when you get home, you're welcomed by a flooded house. Anxiety and stress begin to rear their ugly heads once again. The remediation process can seem like a nightmare. Your floors are ripped up, some of your drywall is torn out, and not to mention a portion of your belongings are damaged. True, the remediation process is not always easy. Our job isn't to make this situation harder for you. Our goal is to get your house/business back to normal as quickly as possible and with great care. If you have a disaster at your house or business, take a deep breath, relax, and let SERVPRO® of Downey handle the mess. You have enough to worry about already. #HereToHelp

Should You Care About El Niño?

11/2/2018 (Permalink)

By now you've likely heard of, or experienced, the weather phenomenon known as El NiñoBut What Is It Exactly? And How Will It Affect You?

 An El Niño happens when warmer water from the Pacific travels Eastward. It's estimated an El Niño happens every 2-7 years.

How Does It Affect Weather?

For places like California, we see an increase of colder and wetter weather. Compare that to New York whos forecast was in the 70s late Dec 2015. There's a pattern here; places that usually get wetter winters are getting warmer ones and vise-versa.

So When Will This BIG El Niño Hit?

 Well El Niño isn't one storm. In fact, it's multiple storms. You may have already experienced some or you may live in a place where you're experiencing a warmer winter. Urban Flooding, Mudslides, Traffic Jams, & Power Outages are all left overs of an El Niño Storm. Either way the affects are felt, subtlety or drastically. 

 El Niño is expected to last until about March. If you're in an area where water is affecting you and your home, SERVPRO® Of Downey is ready to help. (562) 392-3007 

How Clean is Your Air After a Fire?

11/1/2018 (Permalink)

You know that nasty sting you feel in your nose when walking by a building that has recently burned down? It's unpleasant & hazardous. The odor is sulfer mixed with smoke. It's called Acrid. What’s the best way to get rid of it?

Keep in mind, smoke contains the residue of all the burned materials and it can be caustic. It usually requires special equipment to completely clean the air. Ozone Machines and Air Scrubbers are designed specifically for this work.

Ozone Machines destroy the Molecules, Bacteria, and Spores that cause unpleasant smells. Air Scrubbers clean the air by repeatedly moving it through HEPA filters which help reduce the smell.

What else is involved? Other necessary steps involve: (1) Clean all the hard surfaces (2) Wash or treat clothes, drapes, carpets, and upholstery.

A fire doesn’t always destroy a building, smoke however, can ruin everything it contacts. Make sure you do all that’s needed to “clear the air.”

Smoke Damage

11/1/2018 (Permalink)

Every year in the U.S. there are about 80,000 commercial fires. Fire damage is Bad. The damage caused by Smoke is Worse!!!

  The actual fire may be contained to one room or a section of a building, but smoke goes everywhere. It carries the chemical breakdown of what’s been burned. The resulting damage and odor can be costly to remove.

  This article highlights the toxic dangers of fire & smoke.  If there's a fire on your site, call a professional. This is something you shouldn't attempt on your own. The long term effects of the smoke can be fatal.

  After the Fire trucks leave, the real work is just getting started.  Don’t quickly sign an agreement with first company who hands you a card. Take your time and do your research. A fire in your workplace is devastating.  Find the right people to guide you thru the restoration process.

Power Outages: Are You Prepared?

11/1/2018 (Permalink)

Power outages happen, usually at a time we're least expecting. They catch us off-guard like an unexpected dinner guest that we weren't prepared for. We end up scrambling to make ourselves more comfortable in an inconvenient situation. But we can survive with a few amenities. 

Power outages can happen when we're at Home, Work, School, anywhere at anytime. Here's a few tips to keep you comfortable and calm in an outage.

Lighting:

Having Flashlights, Candles, & Lanterns in your home can be of much use at night. Knowing where these items are and working properly can save you some time in the dark. Battery's and Matches should be kept on hand for use.

Electronics: 

Electronics such as TVs, Computers, or Game Systems should be unplugged to prevent damage. Having Surge Protectors does that job for you. Portable Battery's that can charge Phones/Tablets are great to have too. 

Food: 

Keep Refrigerator & Freezer doors closed. This will prevent cold air from escaping and spoiling your food. Having Bottled Water, Canned Goods, & Dry Food will be life saving. 

Stay Informed:

Lastly, stay informed about the outage. Follow Edison on Twitter (@SEC) or check their website for updates on outages. You'll most likely be able to use your phones data to check updates if Wi-Fi is not available. If weather related, be cautious about your surroundings. It may be safest to stay inside, whereas it may just be a time to go out to a Movie, go to the Mall, or get some Food or Coffee.

For more information about Power Outages or tips about prolonged Outages, visit https://www.sce.com/wps/portal/home/outage-center/

Urban Flooding

11/1/2018 (Permalink)

Urban Flooding is a part of life.  We live in a place where water can’t flow as nature intended. Concrete slows down the absorption of rain into the earth, sewers fill up, then floods happen.

According to FEMA, (Federal Emergency Management Agency), all of us have some exposure to flooding. During the last El Niño event, floods caused considerable damage to property. It’s not just the water that’s the problem, it’s what's in it.

Any water from a flood is considered Category 3 or Black Water.  It contains bacteria, microorganisms and possibly raw sewage. If this happens in your home or business, get professionals to clean up the mess.

With three plus million of us living in affected areas, Urban Flooding is a real possibility. SERVPRO of Downey has the all equipment, manpower, and skill to get you thru the flood and make it, "Like it never even happened."

What is Category 3 Flooding?

11/1/2018 (Permalink)

It is a fact that life on this planet would not exist without water. We drink, cook, bathe, and wash with it. Water makes our food grow. Needless to say,We Need Water!

However, there is another aspect of water we need to consider…Too much of it in the wrong place.Too much rain in a short period of time will bring flooding, this can be devastating.

Flood waters contain Bacteria, Mircoorganisms, and possibly Raw Sewage. Water of this type is known as Category 3 or Black Water…It’s effects can be deadly.

It may surprise you, but large portions of L.A and Orange counties are in flood plains. It is possible we could be dealing with this problem. The procedures are outlined in this link, please read and review it with your staff or family.

Our business, hospital, municipality, school district or home could be affected. Consider the possibilities now and prepare. Understanding what water can do, will help us contend with its effects.

4 Steps to Minimize Your Water Damage

11/1/2018 (Permalink)

Unexpected things happen and we've all experienced something unexpected sometime or another. In the same vein, water damage happens. It's not a matter of If, but When. We all need to be prepared when it does strike. Follow these 4 steps and lessen the damage of water.  

Cut Off the Source:

Take for example a toilet overflowing. You come home to find water all over the bathroom. The first thing you may want to do is clean it up, but we'll get to that part later. Shut the water off to the toilet first. Now, no more water can cause damage. If the source isn't an appliance like a toilet, find the shut off valve to the house and turn that off.

Preserve Your Home: 

Now, if the extent of the water is small enough, you can proceed to clean up the water. Rags, mops, & buckets will be useful. You may need to move around furniture to prevent damage. Sewage water should be left alone to prevent further contamination to other parts of the home. 

Contact Remediation Company:

Water often causes unseen problems like Mold. To the naked eye we may have dried and cleaned everything. However, under the surface various materials can still be wet. Whether the extent of the water was minor or major, contact a Water Remediation Company. The situation can be assessed by professionals and tested with specialized technology.

Do Not Panic:

Lastly, don't panic. It may be hardest thing to do on this list, which is understandable. Panicking may cause us to make decisions we might regret. We don't want to remove any flooring or carpeting. When all seems lost, professional restoration experts can restore items such as flooring and carpet.  If walls are opened, possible exposure to lead and/or asbestos could result.

-

Water damage happens, don't be caught off guard when it does. Follow these 4 steps to help minimize the damage and help ease the restoration process. 

Top 3 Causes for House Fires

11/1/2018 (Permalink)

There isn't a single person who wants to experience a house fire. Their home ends up getting damaged or destroyed, along with most of their belongings. Yet, even though no one wants to experience a home fire, The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) notes more than 360,000 homes fires a year.

A majority of fires are preventable. Are you taking the proper steps to prevent a fire in your home? Note the 3 common causes of home fires:

3) Electrical Equipment & Lighting
Wires, Extension Cords, & Heaters are in almost every home. Malfunctions can cause this equipment to go up in flames. One of the most common is decorative Christmas lights. When left on or unattended for a long period of time, these lights can overheat and cause serious damage.

Keep in Mind...
Unplug electrical equipment that's not in use.
Check any decorative lights periodically to avoiding overheating.

2) Dryers
Dryers are commonly known for starting fires, yet many don't take the time to properly maintain their dryer.

Keep in Mind...
Clean out the lint tray after every use.
Never run your dryer without the lint tray in place.

1) Cooking
According to the NFPA, 46% of home fires start in the kitchen with cooking. Cooking can easily be distracting, especially when making large meals.

Keep in Mind...
Never leave your stove top unattended.
Keep children away from hot areas in the kitchen.

This information will help you to minimize your risks of a home fire like never before. Aside from this information, Smoke Alarms need to be replaced and tested to help keep your household aware of any potential fire danger. Review and share this information to keep you and your loved ones safe from a home fire.

Prepare for Winter Storms

11/1/2018 (Permalink)

We have been so long in this drought cycle that the idea of possible storms and flooding just doesn’t seem real.

Prepare now for that possibility. Contact your local DMA (Disaster Management Area), their purpose is to help you get ready and give you the type of information you’ll need in case of flooding from storms.

Look carefully at your sites and determine what the weaknesses are. Put your own disaster response team together and give them the tools they need to keep your operation going.

Lastly, think about who you will call if the worst happens. Do they have the manpower, equipment, and expertise available to make it "Like it never even happened." Ask those questions now, be prepared for the winter storms to come.

Indoor Mold

11/1/2018 (Permalink)

Mold is everywhere!!! That is not an overstatement, it quite simply surrounds us. Mold, as a rule, is not a problem, unless it’s indoors. Then, it’s something to be concerned about.

According to the EPA, when mold is found inside a building, it can cause health effects for the occupants. Here’s a link to a very interesting article about mold and your health

When you discover that you have a mold problem, the first thing that you have you have to do is remove the source….. Find the Water Leak and Dry the Area! You’ll need to get a professional mold remediation company involved. They will have the correct drying equipment and moisture meters to determine if the affected area is truly dry. There may even be some reconstruction needed, that’s why it’s vital to have an Honest Company.

As I mentioned, Mold is everywhere, however, it can’t be in your workplace. If you find that you do have a mold issue, call SERVPRO of Downey, we’re happy to be of assistance.

Is Your Home Breathing?

11/1/2018 (Permalink)

Today’s buildings are more energy efficient than ever before. The way they are designed means that gaps that allow for drafts are almost nonexistent, that’s good for your electric bill, not so great for people.

Buildings are like people, they need to breathe. When there is poor ventilation, problems can arise.

One of the many problems that poor ventilation causes is increasedMold Growth. Mold thrives in areas that have little air movement, so if you’ve had a water loss (even a small one) mold will begin to grow.

So make sure that the water is cleaned up and that the effected areas are really dry. This is especially true for carpets, drywall, or any other materials that are absorbent. According to EPA, "The best way to control mold growth is to control moisture."

The best way to determine dryness is with a Moisture Meter. You can pick them up online, or at big box store. SERVPRO® of Downey is ready to come out and test any possible effected areas.

The Best Way to Control Mold

11/1/2018 (Permalink)

The growing concern with mold in our environment is valid. Mold, in its various forms can pose a real health hazard. This is especially true in schools and commercial buildings. As Administrators or Facility/Risk Managers, you have to be pro-active when dealing with this issue.

There is no such thing as a mold free building, mold spores are everywhere. These spores are very small and will be set in motion by the slightest movement. Once they're air borne, they eventually can settle on any surface. What's the best way to control mold?

One primary way to keep mold under control is good ventilation. Second, repairing all water leaks as soon as possible. If wet spots were to occur, clean and dry within 48hrs. If you work in a school or large commercial building, this article by EPA, (Environmental Protection Agency) will be a helpful guideline in the mold remediation process. 

If you find that there is a mold issue at one of your sites, SERVPRO® of Downey are experts in the field. We can provide the right advice to keep your schools & office buildings a healthy environment.

Always Be Prepared

11/1/2018 (Permalink)

That’s what I learned from the Boy Scouts, it’s something I still try and use today. It takes more time and requires more effort, but in the long run, it eliminates unwanted stress.

We know the amount of damage winter storms can do.Now is the time to Prepare. But how?

SERVPRO® of Downey has a few suggestions: (1) Clean Off your Roofs (2) Clear your Gutters and Downspouts. That doesn’t sound like much, but it can make a huge difference. Standing water on a flat roof is a formula for disaster.

Just in the past few months we’ve inspected and removed leaf and debris from over one million sq ft of roofs. Our inspection involves more than just climbing a ladder and telling you what we saw, documentation with photos and a report is what we provide. If further action is needed, you have the info in hand. As I mentioned earlier, this type of preparation requires more time and effort, but it saves so much stress and money. Call SERVPRO® of Downey and see the difference we make.

Earthquake Preparedness

10/18/2018 (Permalink)

Earthquakes can happen anytime, without warning. The shaking usually lasts less than 1 minute, but that minute can cause great disaster as most of us saw in Mexico 2017. Aftershocks follow but are typically less severe then the initial shock.  Are you prepared for when an earthquake happens?

What to do During an Earthquake:

If you're in a building or home, Drop, Cover, & Hold On. Best place to be is under a table sturdy desk. Stay away from windows, glass, or any objects that might fall or break.

If you're outside, move away from any buildings, streetlights, or electrical wires. And don't forget to Drop, Cover, & Hold until the shaking stops.

If you're driving, stop the car as soon and as safely as possible. Operating the car may be difficult with the shaking.

What to do After an Earthquake:

Assess the damage of your location. Clean up any glass or fallen items that may have broke during the earthquake. 

If you're trapped somewhere, stay calm. Use your phone to get help. Knock on a pipe or wall so authorities can locate you. 

Have your Go-Bag ready and prepare yourself for aftershocks.

Are Lead Contaminates in Your Home?

10/1/2018 (Permalink)

Lead is scary word for allot of people, much like Mold has become. But like Mold, Lead is everywhere. So how do we keep ourselves free from harm?

What Is Lead?

According to EPA, Lead is a naturally occurring element. While it has some beneficial uses, it can be toxic to humans and animals causing of health effects.

Its Uses:

Lead has been found in a variety of products found in and around our homes, most notably is Paint. Lead in paint has many benefits. It drys faster, shines better, blocks sound & radiation, and prevents the growth of mildew. Along with paint, ceramics, plumbing materials, solders, gasoline, batteries, ammunition, cosmetics, and toys have been found to contain lead.

When Lead Becomes Toxic:

Lead enters the body through inhalation or consumption, those are the only ways. Lead becomes toxic when disrupted.

Ex. Lead paint in a home is not harmful, unless the paint is peeling or chipping. If the paint is disrupted, lead dust can spread in the air and into your lungs. Children may be tempted to eat paint chips or rub their hands on the walls where disrupted lead paint is present. This presents a serious health hazard to the child.

Both Adults and Children absorb lead at different rates. After the limit is reached, effects may be more harmful.

Identify Effects of Lead:

Lead attacks almost every part of your body, making you feel sick. It can also do damage to your brain, lower your IQ, cause stomach problems, hearing problems, birth/pregnancy defects, and kidney failure. 

Lead effects can also be unnoticeable too. A BLL (Blood Lead Level) test will give an approximation of how much lead is in your blood. 

Lead in Your Home:

Yes lead is probably in your home now, whether in the form of paint or household products. 

Visit the EPA & CPSC websites for more information on Lead and certain items that can affect you and your family.

SERVPRO® Technology: Hydroxyl & Ozone Generators

10/1/2018 (Permalink)

What are Hydroxyl & Ozone Generators: These generators work hard at removing odors. Both use Ultra Violet light to break down odor molecules. Ozone generators though have to be set up in unoccupied areas, whereas Hydroxyl generators have more leisure. Because of this standard, Ozone usually is quicker and more effective. Hydroxyl may just take longer to work around everything in the occupied space.

Why are they important: Both of these machines do their job well at removing odors in the air as well as materials where odor is present. That's what makes them so effective and useful. Do you have a musty smell from a water damage or the smell of smoke from a fire? No worries, these machines can make your house smell like home again.

3 Things Every Customer Should Know About Mitigation Companies

10/1/2018 (Permalink)

This is interesting data from our SIU department we thought you readers would appreciate.

Unlike most mitigation companies, we have a Special Investigation Unit (SIU). From over 1500 investigations performed for Insurance Carriers, Property Managers, Cities, etc, we have aggregated & analyzed the data from the last couple years.

Here are 3 Things All Customers Should Know:

1. OVER 90% of the time the customer was OVERCHARGED an average of 40-60%.

2. Industry standard for drying is 3-5 days (per IICRC). In most cases mitigation companies are charging for 10 days or longer. Have you ever asked them “Why”?

3. 99% of the time mitigation companies cut the drywall, have you ever asked "Why"? In many instances, IICRC guidelines recommend “in-place drying” since it is safe and reduces cost.

We fully understand that mitigation and/or restoration companies stand to make a lot less money on each project. However, the benefits to you are reduced: Cost(s), Business Interruption, and Overall Collateral Spend.

Accidents happen, but that doesn’t mean you have to be a victim! - If you feel you have been overcharged, send us an old estimate and we’ll do a ‘quick review’ for free. Maybe you are one of the lucky 10%.

We hope one day we can work together…SERVPRO® of Downey puts its partners before its pocketbook.

National Preparedness Month; Why it Matters to You.

9/7/2018 (Permalink)

Scar from Lion King said it best,"Be preeeepaaaared!"It's September, National Preparedness Month. A month where all are reminded that we and our families must be ready to take action when a disaster strikes and be prepared.

This is not a month for 'doomsday prepping'. For gathering beans, building bomb shelters, or installing ham radios. Rather it's a time to Learn, to Listen, and to Prepare. The recent Wildfires of California remind us of the importance of disasters and how quick things can escalate.

Consider these questions with your family:

  • Do we have enough supplies to last us before first responders arrive?
  • Do we have skills such as CPR & First Aid?
  • Do we know our insurance policies and coverage for disasters such as a flood, earthquake, or fire?
  • Do we have emergency savings?

Consider your circumstances. What disaster is most likely to happen where I live? This #NationalPreparednessMonth get involved in the conversation. Follow the hashtag above along with #NatlPrep & #PrepareNow.

Disasters don't plan ahead, but you can. Don't risk the safety and welfare of your family. SERVPRO of Downey urges you, be prepared.

To find out more about #NationalPreparednessMonth visit here.

SERVPRO® Technology: Air Movers

8/2/2018 (Permalink)

What are Air Movers?: Air Movers are specialized fans, industrial fans. They come in different sizes for different drying system uses. One thing they all have in common is that they move or blow air around a job sight. The result of that moving air allows the wet areas to dry.

Why Are They Important?: Air Movers are crucial to the drying process of any job. More fans doesn't necessarily mean faster drying. These fans are placed strategically for optimal drying time. After 3-5 days of constant use, the wet area will be dry.

Though they don't work alone. Dehumidifiers carry a heavy responsibility on the job sight by removing any moisture in a room. A separate post will be available regarding dehumidifiers and their functions.    

Cocktail of the Week: Old Fashioned

8/2/2018 (Permalink)

The term Cocktail first came into existence in 1806 for a drink that included Spirits, Sugar, Water, Bitters.

Welcome to our first installment of Cocktail of the Week! A new post will occur every Friday breaking down the common and not too common cocktails for your enjoyment.

FAQ:

1) But...Why cocktails? You guys are a SERVPRO?

Hey! Great question, well if there's something that we all here at SERVPRO like to do it's have a nice cocktail. We're guessing you enjoy the same. 

_____________________________________

The Old Fashioned

It's the OG, the grand-dad, the mecca of all drinks. Not only is it delicious to drink, but it's easy to make and easy to mess up.

Spirit: Whiskey (Rye preferably) 

Sweet: Sugar (Simple Syrup preferably)

Bitter: Angostura Bitters

In a Whiskey glass combine:

1 TSP - Simple Syrup

3 Dashes - Bitters

2 oz - Whiskey

Place Big Ice Cube in glass and stir for 25s

Pro Tip: If using Rye, garnish with Lemon Twist. If using Bourbon, use Orange Twist.

For more information on the Old Fashioned check out this link.

Is Your Pet Lost? We'll Help!

7/16/2018 (Permalink)

We know how it feels when our furry friends run away, that's why SERVPRO of Downey wants to help. 

If your pet is lost in the local Downey area:

1) Send us a photo of your pet with all the necessary info you want to include and we'll post it on our social media. 

OR

2) Post it on your social media and tag us @SERVPROdowney and we'll repost it.

It can be stressful when the family pet is missing, but it doesn't have to be. We'll help spread the word as best as we can. #HereToHelp

SERVPRO of Downey's Quest for the Holy Bourbon

6/29/2018 (Permalink)

Baudoinia growing on a whiskey barrel house.

If there's anything you should know about the South, it's that they pride themselves on their hospitality. And they certainly deliver on that. Visiting Tennessee (SERVPRO homeland) and Kentucky (Bourbon homeland) was a great adventure. 

We tackled the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, visiting 13 distilleries, getting a booklet stamped at each.

On our quest we learned about Baudoinia.

What is Baudoinia?

Baudoinia is a phenomenon that takes place where ever whiskey is being made. It's a black fungus that occurs on buildings, signs, trees, and other things that might be in the area. Despite its appearance it's totally safe.

Airborne Ethanol + Moisture = Baudoinia. 

Fun Fact: Authorities used to track down illegal Moonshine distillers by looking for black trees, a sign of Baudoinia.

Eliminate Excessive Dust

5/31/2018 (Permalink)

Dust are fine particles of matter, ranging from dirt, hair, pollen, and fibers.

Dust seems to be everywhere, always. At home and work, especially in the most complicated places.

Do you feel no matter how hard you clean, dust still keeps coming back? Here might be the reasons.

1) HVAC Filters


Your HVAC system is the prime suspect to sending dust about your home or business. Do you know the last time your ducts were cleaned? Ducts collect dust, debris, & fungus. This mess can end up wearing out your HVAC filters, which could potentially cause sickness.

Buy the proper HVAC filters with a High Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) rating. The EPA recommends changing those filters every 2 months along with a regular duct cleaning service every 3-5yrs depending on use.

2) Leaking Ducts


Speaking of ducts...yours might be leaking. Leaking ducts are guaranteed to scatter dust. This can also effect your utility efficiency.

Hire a professional duct sealer to seal your ducts and prevent dust from escaping.

Dust doesn't have to take over your home or business. At SERVPRO®, we offer such services mentioned above. From water to fire even dust, we're here to help. (562) 392-3007

Home Fire Sprinkler Day

5/17/2018 (Permalink)

The great majority of fire deaths in America happen in a home. What's the solution to this nationwide problem?

NFPA's Fire Sprinkler Initiative, the Home Fire Sprinkler Coalition, and the Home Fire Sprinkler Coalition-Canada are initiating Home Fire Sprinkler Day.

The goal is to have safety advocates host at least one sprinkler-related event in all 50 states and in some Canadian provinces and territories.

These events will focus on the benefits of having home fire sprinkler systems. The results are amazing to see what sprinklers can do for you and how they work to save lives.

Taking action is easy. Join the conversation online by following the hashtag or attend one of these events nearest to you. Visit the NFPA's website for more info on #HomeFireSprinklerDay

Building Safety Month

4/27/2018 (Permalink)

Disasters are overwhelming....

We can't, however, stop them from happening. But we can prepare for them. Making sure your family is prepared before a disaster is crucial.

  • Have a Family Disaster Plan

    Make sure everyone has enough food and water. Have any important documents easily accessible. Review your evacuation route and meet up points with your family.
    Review the plan when necessary to update any changes.
  • Building safety

    Codes are put in place to make sure you're getting the upmost protection for your home or business. When those codes are followed and exceeded, you can be sure your home or business is ready to withstand any disaster.

To learn more about National Building Safety Month visit: https://www.iccsafe.org/about-icc/building-safety-month/2018-building-safety-month/

How to Clean Condenser Coils

3/26/2018 (Permalink)

Any sort of coiled equipment collects dust. Don't believe us? Go look under your refrigerator. All those coils that are used to keep your food cold collect dust. Some are good about regularly cleaning them, others...not so much. I'm sure the last thing we're all thinking is, "I need to clean the coils under my fridge!"

Fridges, A/C units, and heaters are all notorious for dust. The danger? Too much dust can cause your machine to overheat, and not function as effectively as it should.

How to Clean the Coils

  • Have a vacuum handy, specifically one with an extension hose. Use the hose to suck up any dust the coils are collecting.
  • You may not have a vacuum that fits where the coils are placed. Use a feather duster wand or hairdryer to get the dust. Simultaneously have the vacuum right there to collect any lose dust that might be floating around. 
  • If you want to do a more extensive cleaning, make the piece of equipment you're working with lighter. That may mean emptying out your fridge, unfasten an A/C unit, and tilt the machine for easy access.

Once you're done, your coils will be nice and clean and ready to work at full capacity.

Mold Remediation & Restoration Process

2/26/2018 (Permalink)

Our specialty here at SERVPRO is a little R&R... Remediation and Restoration.

How does mold play into situation?

Mold is most likely to grow where there is moisture and humidity. That means, after you've suffered a water damage the chance of mold growth is highly likely. 

How is mold remediated? 

First step is clear out any traces of the water damage if one occurred. Next, a containment will be set up so mold growth is contained. After that, a cleansing of the air must take place. Various air units will be placed to filter the air and mold spores that might be present throughout. Lastly all mold affected materials will be removed.

Don't let the media scare you. The mold removal process is easy. Call SERVPRO of Downey with any questions: (562) 392-3007

A Moldy Situation

2/23/2018 (Permalink)

What is Mold?

Mold is classified as an organism, yet it is neither a plant nor animal.

When you think of mold you probably think of that green fuzzy stuff you find on your bread when it's been in the pantry too long. Or maybe you think of the black dots you find in your shower or around your kitchen sink.

It's true, mold comes in various forms and different colors.

What Does it Matter? 

Something you may or may not remember from science class is that mold travels through the air. Yes it's everywhere, but you can't see them. It's only when they attach themselves to other organic material that they become visible.

You may wonder..."Is there mold in my house or business?"

The answer is yes, since mold spores are airborne. Don't worry though, call SERVPRO of Downey when you can see it. 

Welcome La Niña

1/25/2018 (Permalink)

Welcome La Niña!

According to the NOAA, La Niña has arrived. We may have thought we were going to get through this season without seeing her, but it's official. Signs of her arrival were triggered by cooler sea temperatures over the Pacific. They are estimated to stay at a cooler temperature for several months.

Like her counterpart, El Niño, La Niña causes changes in atmospheric circulation or air movement. These changes affect global weather patterns from a minor to major degree. In and around the northern United States and Canada, La Niña expects to bring cooler weather patterns, which include rain and snowfall. Central and southern parts of the United States are expected to receive drought like conditions.

Weather patterns are ever changing. La Niña and her affects are possibilities and not set in stone. We can welcome La Niña and either look forward to her affects or not.

How to Get Rid of Common Household Stains

9/15/2017 (Permalink)

There's nothing more frustrating than getting a stain on a new rug or piece of furniture. Sadly, no matter how clean we may be it's not a matter of if it'll happen, but a matter of when.

The key to getting out any stain is treating it as soon as possible. 

Here's some of the things you'll need:

  • Paper Towels/Cloths
  • Vinegar
  • Laundry/Dish Soap
  • Hydrogen-Peroxide/Rubbing Alcohol
  • Salt
  • Water
  • Hairspray

Wine:

  1. Dab stain with paper towels and soak up as much liquid as possible.
  2. Generously spread salt on the stain.
  3. Use Club Soda to rinse the stain.
  4. Dry and Vacuum stain away.

Use Hydrogen Peroxide for tougher stains. 

Coffee:

  1. Dab stain with paper towels and soak up as much liquid as possible.
  2. Pour cold water on stain to flush out coffee, continue dabbing stain to remove liquid.
  3. Mix 1 tablespoon of liquid dish soap, 1 tablespoon of White Vinegar, and warm water. 
  4. Soak sponge or cloth in solution and blot stain until removed.

Professional Tip: Always dab/blot a stain. Rubbing it in can make it harder to remove.

Ink: 

  1. Dab with Rubbing Alcohol and soak up as much as the ink as possible.
  2. Liberally spray with hairspray.
  3. Use warm sponge or cloth to finish up stain.

Juice:

  1. Dab stain with paper towels or cloth to soak up liquid.
  2. Pour warm water on stain and continue to soak up liquid.
  3. Blot stain again to dry up.

Tomato Based Stain:

  1. Remove excess sauce and run cold water through stain. 
  2. Use small amount of laundry detergent to clean stain.
  3. Cold water, Blot, and Dry.

Aside from the common methods above, retail Stain Removers can also be useful. Be sure to check the instructions so you will not damage any home furnishings.

National Preparedness Month

9/7/2017 (Permalink)

It's National Preparedness Month this September. It's a time to focus and to prepare for when a disaster may strike. This years theme is:

"Disasters Don't Plan Ahead. You Can."

How true that statement is. We usually have little to no warning when a disaster will strike, but that doesn't mean we're completely hopeless. With proper preparation, whether we're at work, school, or at home, we can be ready to act.

Follow us on Facebook and Twitter to receive updates and tips on how you can better prepare. Spread the word, share it with your family, co-workers, and school mates.

In line with National Preparedness Month we'd like to extend our thanks for all the volunteers who've gone out to help those in Texas affected by Hurricane Harvey. SERVPRO® is working hard out there to get people back in there homes.

SERVPRO® Technology: Moisture Meters

6/6/2017 (Permalink)

These Moisture Meters are considered Penetrating Meters due to the probing pins.

What Are Moisture Meters: Moisture Meters are relatively the same size as Thermo Hygrometers. These meters have pins for tapping and locating moisture on walls and ceilings.

Why Are They Important: These moisture levels that the meter taps allow our technicians to know exactly where water is hiding in your walls. This allows them to treat damaged areas and not compromise any undamaged section.

This meter is used each time a home is monitored. It allows us to know the section is drying properly and quickly.

SERVPRO® Technology: Thermo Hygrometers

5/19/2017 (Permalink)

What Are Thermo Hygrometers: Thermo Hygrometers are about the size of a TV remote. This tool is used to measure Humidity levels in the air. It also reads the temperature.

Why Are They Important: These Humidity levels are important when water damage has occurred. It allows us to see how severe the damage is. The higher the Humidity, the more likely the water in the air will penetrate the walls and ceiling. Humid air feels stuffy and musty.

These Humidity levels are checked each time we monitor a home. The lower the levels tells us it's drying properly.

Can You Smell that Smell?

12/5/2016 (Permalink)

It's that time of year, the time when you turn on your heater. It doesn't happen too often, in fact hardly ever some years. When you do, though, it's for good reason. But have you ever noticed a funny smell when you turn your heater on?

If you have, you're not the only one. In fact, it's quite common. But you still shouldn't ignore it. Depending on the type of smell, there might be a fairly easy solution or a real situation. So what does your heater smell like?

Does it smell Damp or Dusty?
That's normal. Dust and dirt will collect in the ducts over time. When the heat kicks in, the dust can release a smell when it gets blown about the house. If the smell lingers after multiple uses a new filter may be needed.

Does it smell like Oil or Smoke?
This can be of serious concern. Oil may be leaking, that is if you have an oil furnace. Such a leak may put you at risk for fire damage.

Does it Smell Musty?
A musty smell could signify Mold, either in the unit or filter itself. Inspect, Clean, and Replace as needed to protect your home from Mold.

Does it Smell like Burning Plastic or Electrical?
An object may be in the duct that is overheating and causing the smell. It could entail something much more serious like the units motor overheating. Contact an experienced technician to inspect the electrical of your unit to insure it's working properly.

Next time you smell that "funny" smell, don't ignore it.

Cleaning Your Air Conditioner

7/22/2016 (Permalink)

Most of us don't give any attention to our Air Conditioner Unit until it goes out. Then, we give it all the TLC we can to get it back in action again. But our A/C Unit needs our attention, not just when it's not working. Especially during these hot summer weeks/months ahead, we need to give our A/C Unit the attention it deserves.

If you have a large HVAC system, refer to this article on how to check and properly clean it. 

In this section we're going to briefly discuss cleaning Window Units. A quick clean every month will keep your portable A/C unit working effectively.

How to Clean:

  • First, unplug the A/C Unit.
  • Proceed to remove the front cover, or vent. This may need to be screwed off. 
  • Once the cover is off, the filter should be right behind it. Remove the filter from the unit.
  • Take the front cover and filter and clean them with soap & water. 
  • Once every thing is completely dried, put the filter and cover back on.

You A/C Unit is now cleaner and will deliver the best possible results on any setting.    

Flooding in Europe - 2016

6/10/2016 (Permalink)

Starting last week, Paris was struck with a heavy downpour. Such extreme rainfall caused concern for Flooding. So far, the deluge has caused massive damage. So much so that its taken 18 confirmed lives and almost a billion euros in damage. The Louvre, a museum housing some of the most historic pieces of art, was evacuated in order to avoid damaging any art pieces.

Paris wasn't the only place to fall victim to these heavy rains. Germany was also effected by the rain and deadly floods. Interestingly enough, this flooding took place in May. Past records show most cases of flooding in Paris took place in the Winter months. This was due to heavy rainfall and flooding of the nearest river basin, The Seine. This is the very same basin that flooded this past week.

Unfortunately, Europe isn't the only place where this is happening. Houston & Florida are currently experiencing the same problem. This is a problem that we at SERVPRO® are certainly aware of. The after effects of dealing with flood damage can be overwhelming for those involved. We all hope Europe fully recovers from the extensive damage.

RIP El Niño - 2016

5/26/2016 (Permalink)

The weather phenomenon known as El Niño has passed. As of this past week, climate indicators have returned back to more neutral levels. Which can mean only one thing... El Niño is gone. Some may dispute whether it was even here in the first place.* 

Nonetheless, it had quite a reputation. Mostly from its 97-98  El Niño relative. But even with all the hype, it couldn't live up to its expectations. It certainly gave the best it had, delivering various storms and blizzards, and still leaving behind a drought.

We tip our hats to you El Niño as we make way and prepare for your counterpart La Niña.  

*Read our past article discussing how El Niño has disrupted lives.

6 Tips to Survive the Summer Heat

5/6/2016 (Permalink)

Summer...the kids love it. It's a time for pool parties, BBQ's, beach day's, and just relaxing. But summer days can be grueling. The heat can be unbearable. No matter how much water you drink or how much ice cream you eat, you just can't seem to cool down. 

Whether you have A/C or not, these tips can help you stay comfortable this summer.

Close Blinds/Curtains: Don't let the heat in. Give your home some shade by keeping the blinds or curtains closed.

Fans: Regular oscillating fans are life savers. Open a window and place the rear of the fan towards the window. Doing so will push hot air out.

Ceiling Fans: Ceiling fans only circulate air, giving the impression that it's cooler then it really is. Set the fan to counter-clockwise mode will pull up all the hot air, so it's not lingering around you.  

Bed Sheets: Throw your sheets in the freezer! It's the opposite of an Electric Blanket. But works wonders on those sleepless nights when the summer heat is keeping you up.

Limit Oven Use: Using the oven can heat up the kitchen and sometimes the entire house. Limiting your oven use can lower the temperatures in you house. 

When all else fails, turn on the A/C.  If you don't have A/C, using these tips can lower temperatures in your house. However, running the A/C all summer long can skyrocket your bill. These tips can limit your use of the A/C and keep you and your family comfortable this summer.     

3 Things You're Forgetting to Clean

3/11/2016 (Permalink)

It's that time of year again...Spring Cleaning. It comes at a time when you're busy getting your Taxes done and trying to readjust your sleep schedule due to Daylight Savings time. 

You may just put off your Spring Cleaning altogether or clean whenever you get the chance. But whether you clean in the Spring or some other time, these 3 things can make all the difference.

1) Dust:

Dust is easily overlooked. We may think, "There's so little, nobody will notice it." But they do! 

- Dust contains animal dander, insect waste, dirt, & human skin. -  

The worst part is that it can be almost everywhere. Counter tops, picture frames, shelves, and glass are notorious for collecting dust.

So grab a few cloths and your choice of dust cleaner. Dust can make all the difference between clean and squeaky clean. 

2) Mold:

This one might seem scary, but we're not talking about the mold that grows from in your basement or that needs to be handled by a Mold Remediation Company. 

                       - Mold Thrives on Moisture. -

Where is moisture found? Bathrooms for one. With all the water and steam, it creates a perfect environment for mold. Kitchens is another place, specifically around the sink and if you have grout tops. Dishwashers too make a great place for mold to hid. 

Look between the cracks in your shower, if you see a black spec, it's probably mold. Check your kitchen area, around your sink and dishwasher, near where the steam comes out. 

Did you find any mold? If you did, don't be alarmed. Grab a thick sponge/cloth and multi-purpose cleaner and wipe that mold away. Better to get rid of it now, then later.

3) Cleaning Supplies:

Most of us neglect to clean the tools we clean with. Ironic right? However, failure to clean our supplies can lead to the spread of more bacteria and germs. 

Cleaning is as easy as letting your supplies soak for a few minutes. A bucket with hot water and OxiClean powder or Bleach, is all you need to soak your Broom Heads and Brushes. 

When it comes to Sponges, you can soak those too. Another option is throwing them in the Dishwasher, just make sure there's no dishes in there.

Any type of Mop Pad or Cloth can be put in the Washer and Dryer. If you have a Vacuum with Bags or Filters, be sure those get changed out. Failure to do so can lead to a clog or malfunction. 

-

It's important to be clean. These 3 things can bring on a new meaning to clean and can really impress your guests. Visit our cleaning services page if you're interested in a deeper cleaning for your home.

Are You Ready For Moving Day?

3/4/2016 (Permalink)

Tasks go much smoother when you have the proper tools. Moving is no different. A day of what would be full of stress and exhaustion can turn into a process of ease. Having the proper tools contributes to that ease. Here's a few Absolute Essentials that will help make your moving day easier.     

The Essentials:

  • Boxes - This ones a no brainer, having plenty of boxes is a must. A variety of sizes is important too.
  • Tape - You can never have enough tape. You'll mostly use Packing Tape. It's good to have Duct Tape too, you never know what you'll run into. 
  • Markers - It's always good to be organized and markers will help you do just that. Mark the boxes that correspond to a certain room and label them with any other information you may need.
  • Packing Paper/Bubble Wrap - Nobody wants their dishes or other fragile items broken during the move. Having plenty of newspaper or bubble wrap can prevent such a disaster. 

Those are the Absolute Essentials, the things you need to accomplish your move. But these next things can really impact the ease of it. This list is subjective to you and your move.

  • Dolly
  • Gloves
  • Scissors/Blades
  • Toolbox
  • Bungee Cords/Straps
  • Blankets, Towels, Tarps
  • Food & Water

If you have allot of boxes and fewer people, a Dolly would be great to have. Not only would it take the load off your helpers, but it would also cut down on time. If you have more furniture then boxes, a Furniture Dolly may suit you better then an upright one.

Gloves may come in handy if you need a little extra grip. Scissors/Blades can be of use when dealing with difficult tape. A Toolbox would prove useful too when certain furniture needs taken apart or doors need to come off. 

If your transporting the items yourself, Bungee Cords & Straps are recommended. A supply of old Blankets, Towels, or Traps can provide protection for your furniture as well.   

Last but not least, having enough Food & Water. All this work is going to get you and your helpers hungry & thirsty. Have enough nourishment to get you through the move. 

Let's face it, Moving is tough, but it doesn't have to be. These tips can help you be prepared and enjoy the move into your new place with ease. 

What Happens After El Niño?

2/29/2016 (Permalink)

"El Niño, El Niño, El Niño," it's all you have heard this past year. Your friends talk about it, your family, your co-workers, but the opinion always differs. Our last article about the topic helped explain what El Niño really is & cleared up some misconceptions. Now we'll see what the future has in store for El Niño.

Pre/During - El Niño:

El Niño has been at it since late November to early December. Locally, we've seen some rain, not as much as anticipated, but it definitely came. Other areas saw changes too. For instance, the weather in New York was tame this December. By tame, I mean while it was raining here, it was nice and sunny over there. The Northern States such as Washington & Oregon also saw a drier Winter.

Then there's the Drought. El Niño did help improve its conditions. The reality though is that this drought has been years in the making. One El Niño season isn't going to rid it. But we'll take all the help we can get.

Post - El Niño:

As El Niño storms are fading and walking out the door, La Niña is stepping in...supposedly. Why supposedly? Because it's not for certain, but it is typical. Past El Niño's were typcially followed by a La Niña. If & when La Niña does show, the forecasts will likely be on the drier side. But the real severity depends on what season it arrives.

Stay up to date with our Twitter & Facebook for more information regarding El Niño & La Niña. If your home or office has been effected by recent weather, feel free to contact us at SERVPRO® of Downey. (562) 392-3007   

How Your HVAC System is Affecting Your Health

2/1/2016 (Permalink)

You no doubt cherish your HVAC system. You may use it everyday, especially the AC in the Summer and Heat in the Winter. But your HVAC System is affecting your health.

What You Need to Do:

Change your Air Filters. Air Filters keeps your air clean from Bacteria, Dust, Pollutants, Pet Dander, & Mold. A clogged Filter cannot combat against such things. It also puts strain on your energy bill and HVAC system. A clean Filter ensures your HVAC system operates efficiently.

When to Change Them:

Every 3 Months is typical. Yet, Pets, Children, & Allergies are all variables that may shorten that time to Once a Month.

How to Do It:

Your Air Filters are usually located:

  • On Your HVAC System
  • Your Ceilings
  • Your Walls

Check these areas for Return Vents, these are where your Filters will be. Before removing Filters, make sure your HVAC system is OFF. Then, proceed to remove the Filters. 

Take note of their Sizes, they're written on the side of the Filter. Pick up your new Filters at a Hardware Store or store that carries home supplies.

Proceed to install new Filters. Directional arrows on the Filter will help you to install it correctly. 

(SERVPRO TIP: Mark the date you installed the Filters to help you remember when to change them out next.) 

Categories

Archived Posts