Coping with Power Outages during a Storm

9/23/2023 (Permalink)

When storms leave you with power outages, ensure you have strategies to stay safe.

Power outages are a common occurrence during storms, and they can disrupt our daily lives and pose various challenges. Being prepared and knowing how to cope with power outages is essential for staying safe, comfortable, and connected during these challenging times. In this blog post, we will explore some practical tips and strategies for coping with power outages during storms.

Create an Emergency Kit

Having an emergency kit prepared in advance is crucial for dealing with power outages. Include essential items such as flashlights, extra batteries, a battery-powered radio, a first aid kit, non-perishable food items, bottled water, a manual can opener, and a backup power source, such as a generator or a battery pack for charging essential devices.

Stay informed by keeping a list of important phone numbers, including the local power company, emergency services, and any local updates provided by authorities. Consider downloading relevant apps or subscribing to emergency alert services to receive real-time information about the outage and any safety measures.

Minimize Power Usage

During a power outage, conserve energy by minimizing power usage. Turn off all non-essential lights, appliances, and electronics to reduce the strain on the electrical system when power is restored. Unplug sensitive devices to protect them from power surges when the power comes back on.

Keep the refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible to maintain the cold temperature and preserve perishable food. If the outage is prolonged, consider moving essential items to a cooler with ice. Additionally, ensure you have an adequate supply of any necessary medications and keep them in a cool, dry place.

Stay Safe

Stay safe during a power outage by using caution. Keep candles and open flames away from flammable materials and never leave them unattended. If using a generator, follow the manufacturer's instructions and place it outside to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Use flashlights instead of candles whenever possible to reduce the risk of fire.

During a power outage, it's important to stay hydrated and comfortable, especially if the outage occurs during extreme weather. Have bottled water stored and use battery-operated fans or open windows for ventilation. If necessary, seek alternative shelter with friends, family, or emergency shelters to ensure your safety and well-being.

Maintain Communication

During a power outage, it's crucial to maintain communication with loved ones and authorities. Keep your mobile devices charged and use them sparingly to conserve battery life. Consider investing in a portable phone charger or a car charger as an additional power source. If cell service is unavailable, use a landline phone if possible.

Reach out to neighbors, friends, or community organizations to offer or seek assistance during a power outage. Check on vulnerable individuals, such as the elderly or those with medical conditions, to ensure their well-being. Sharing resources, expertise, and support can make coping with a power outage more manageable and less stressful. 

Remember to be patient during a power outage. Restoration efforts can take time, especially during severe storms or widespread outages. Trust that the utility companies are working diligently to restore power as quickly and safely as possible. Coping with power outages during storms can be challenging, but with preparation, practical strategies, and a calm approach, you can navigate through these situations. By following these tips, you can minimize the impact of power outages, ensure your safety, and make the experience more manageable for yourself and your loved ones.

How Many Fire Alarms Should I Have in My Home? Understanding Fire Safety Guidelines

9/12/2023 (Permalink)

Having the right amount of fire alarms and evacuation plan incase of a fire or emergency.

Fire safety is critical for every homeowner, and one of the most crucial components of fire safety is smoke alarms. Smoke alarms are designed to detect the presence of smoke and alert you to the dangers of a fire. But how many smoke alarms do you need in your home to ensure maximum safety? In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at the fire safety guidelines and recommendations for smoke alarms.

Basic Guidelines for Smoke Alarms

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends that every home have a smoke alarm installed in every bedroom, outside each sleeping area, and on every level of the home, including the basement. However, the specific number and placement of smoke alarms depends on the size and layout of your home.

When determining how many smoke alarms you need in your home, consider the following guidelines:

• Consider the Size and Layout of Your Home. The number of smoke alarms you need depends on the size and layout of your home. Larger homes or those with multiple levels may require more smoke alarms to ensure adequate coverage. When determining the placement of smoke alarms, consider the location of sleeping areas, stairwells, and other areas where fires are most likely to occur.
• Follow Local Fire Safety Codes. In addition to the NFPA recommendations, you should also follow the local fire safety codes for your area. Many states and municipalities have specific requirements for smoke alarms based on the size of the home and the number of occupants.
• Use Combination Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms. Carbon monoxide is a deadly gas that can accumulate in your home without warning. Combination smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are recommended to ensure adequate detection and protection against both smoke and carbon monoxide.

Test smoke alarms regularly. Once installed, smoke alarms should be tested regularly to ensure they are functioning correctly. The NFPA recommends testing smoke alarms at least once a month and replacing batteries every six months. Smoke alarms should also be replaced every ten years.

Ensuring your home has an adequate number of smoke alarms is critical for fire safety. Generally, the NFPA recommends having a smoke alarm in every bedroom, outside each sleeping area, and on every level of the home. However, the specific placement and number of smoke alarms depend on the size and layout of your home and local fire safety codes. Remember to test your smoke alarms regularly and replace them every ten years to ensure maximum safety and protection against fire. Also having an evacuation plan in place can help redirect your family and protect them incase of a fire or emergency. Practice the evacuation plan periodically to ensure all the member of your household know where to meet incase of a fire.

Dealing with a Pipe Break: Steps to Take for Effective Recovery

7/24/2023 (Permalink)

A pipe break can cause significant damage, call a professional to ensure a successful recovery.

Experiencing a pipe break in your home can be a distressing situation, potentially leading to significant water damage if not handled promptly. Acting swiftly and knowing the right steps to take can help minimize the impact of the pipe break and ensure a successful recovery. In this blog, we will guide you through the essential steps to follow after a pipe break, enabling you to mitigate water damage, protect your property, and restore normalcy.

Shut Off the Water Supply

The first and most crucial step is to shut off the water supply to the affected area. Locate the main water shut-off valve in your home and turn it off to prevent further water flow. If you're unsure of the location or have individual shut-off valves for specific areas, such as sinks or toilets, turn off those valves instead.

Assess the Damage

Evaluate the extent of the water damage caused by the pipe break. Inspect the affected area and surrounding spaces for signs of water pooling, wetness on walls or ceilings, or any structural damage. Take photographs or videos of the damage for insurance purposes.

Call a Professional Plumber

Contact a licensed plumber immediately to repair the broken pipe. Professionals have the expertise and tools to fix the issue correctly, minimizing the risk of future problems. Avoid attempting a DIY repair unless you have the necessary skills and knowledge.

Remove Standing Water

If there is standing water due to the pipe break, remove it as quickly as possible. Use mops, towels, or a wet/dry vacuum to soak up the water. Ensure proper ventilation and airflow by opening windows and using fans or dehumidifiers to aid in drying the affected area.

After removing standing water, focus on thoroughly drying the affected area to prevent mold growth and further damage. Use fans, dehumidifiers, and natural airflow to facilitate drying. Monitor moisture levels with a moisture meter and ensure that all surfaces are completely dry before proceeding with repairs.

Salvage and Clean Personal Belongings

If personal belongings or furniture have been affected by the water, move them to a dry area and assess the damage. Salvage items that are salvageable and set aside those that require professional cleaning or restoration. Thoroughly clean and disinfect any items that have come into contact with the water.

Assess Structural Damage

Inspect walls, floors, and ceilings for signs of structural damage caused by the pipe break. Look for sagging, cracking, or warping. If significant structural damage is present, consult a professional contractor or structural engineer for further evaluation and necessary repairs.

Take thorough documentation of the damage, including photographs, videos, and written descriptions. Contact your insurance company to report the incident and initiate the claims process. Provide them with the necessary documentation and keep a record of all communication with your insurance company.

Dealing with a pipe break requires quick action and proper handling to minimize water damage and prevent further complications. By following these steps you can effectively navigate the aftermath of a pipe break and restore your home to its pre-damage condition. Remember, if the damage is extensive or if you're uncertain about the necessary repairs, it's always wise to seek professional assistance to ensure a thorough and successful recovery process.

Crawlspace Chronicles: Conquering the Challenge of Removing 2 Feet of Water

6/12/2023 (Permalink)

Removing water from a crawl space is crucial for preventing mold and secondary damages.

A flooded crawl space can be a homeowner's worst nightmare. Whether it's caused by heavy rainfall, a burst pipe, or a plumbing mishap, dealing with standing water in your crawl space requires immediate attention to prevent further damage. In this blog, we'll guide you through the step-by-step process of safely removing 2 feet of water from your crawlspace, helping you restore your home to a dry and secure state.

Step 1: Prioritize Safety

Before diving into the water removal process, ensure your safety by following these precautions. Turn off all electrical power in the crawlspace to avoid electrocution hazards. Wear protective clothing, including rubber boots, gloves, and a face mask to minimize contact with potentially contaminated water.

Step 2: Assess the Situation

Evaluate the extent of the water damage and identify the source of the flooding if possible. This will help you determine the best approach for removing the water. Additionally, take note of any valuable items or furniture that might have been affected and prioritize their recovery.

Step 3: Pumping out the Water

To remove the substantial amount of water from your crawlspace, you'll need to employ a reliable pump. Follow these steps:

• Rent or purchase a submersible pump capable of handling large volumes of water.
• Locate the lowest point in your crawlspace and position the pump there.
• Connect a hose to the pump and direct it away from your home's foundation, ensuring proper drainage.
• Plug in the pump and allow it to run until all the water has been pumped out. Be patient, as this process may take several hours.

Step 4: Drying and Ventilation

Once the water has been removed, focus on drying out the remaining moisture to prevent mold growth and further damage. Use a wet/dry vacuum or mop to remove any residual water from the surface. Open all doors, windows, and vents to promote cross-ventilation and increase airflow in the crawlspace. Place dehumidifiers and fans strategically throughout the space to expedite the drying process. Monitor humidity levels regularly and adjust the equipment as needed.

Step 5: Inspect and Repair

Once your crawlspace is completely dry, thoroughly inspect the area for any signs of damage. Look for structural issues, mold growth, and compromised insulation. Address these problems promptly by contacting professionals if necessary. Additionally, take preventive measures to avoid future water intrusion, such as repairing leaks, improving drainage systems, or installing a sump pump

Step 6: Clean and Disinfect

Even after the water is removed, it's crucial to clean and disinfect the crawlspace to eliminate any secondary damages.  Scrub the walls, floor, and any affected surfaces with a solution of warm water and bleach or a specialized disinfectant. Dispose of any water-damaged materials, such as insulation or carpet, that cannot be effectively cleaned or salvaged. Use a mold inhibitor to further prevent mold growth in the future.

Removing water from a crawlspace is a challenging task that requires careful planning and execution. By following these steps and taking appropriate safety measures, you can effectively mitigate the damage, restore your crawlspace to a dry state, and prevent further issues like mold growth. However, if you're uncertain or the damage is extensive, it's always advisable to consult with professionals who specialize in water damage restoration to ensure a thorough and proper recovery process.

Moisture Control 101: Essential Tips for Preventing Mold in Your Home

5/17/2023 (Permalink)

Preventing mold from taking over your home by following these few steps.

Mold is a common problem in many homes, and it can not only damage the aesthetics of your living space, but cause secondary damages to your home or business. Mold thrives in environments with excessive moisture, making it crucial to control moisture levels in your home to prevent mold growth. In this blog post, we will provide you with essential tips for moisture control to help you prevent mold from taking hold in your home.

Fix leaks promptly

Any water leaks in your home, whether it's from a pipe, roof, or window, should be addressed immediately. Water leaks provide a prime breeding ground for mold growth, and even minor leaks can create enough moisture for mold to thrive. Regularly inspect your home for any signs of leaks, such as water stains, dampness, or musty odors, and fix them promptly to prevent mold from gaining a foothold.

Ensure proper ventilation

Proper ventilation is key to controlling moisture in your home. Use exhaust fans in the bathroom, kitchen, and laundry room to vent moisture to the outside. Make sure that your dryer is vented to the outside as well. Open windows and doors regularly to allow fresh air to circulate and promote airflow, which helps to reduce moisture levels and discourage mold growth.

Control indoor humidity

Keeping indoor humidity levels in check is crucial in preventing mold growth. Use a dehumidifier in areas with high humidity, such as basements, crawl spaces, and bathrooms, to reduce excess moisture in the air. Aim to maintain indoor humidity levels below 50% to discourage mold growth. You can also use air conditioners to help reduce humidity during hot and humid weather.

Insulate properly

Proper insulation is essential in preventing condensation, which can lead to mold growth. Insulate your home properly, including walls, floors, and roofs, to prevent moisture from seeping in and creating a conducive environment for mold to thrive. Insulation also helps to regulate indoor temperatures, reducing the risk of condensation.

Keep your home clean and dry

Regular cleaning and maintenance are key to preventing mold growth. Clean up any spills or water damage immediately and dry affected areas thoroughly. Don't leave wet or damp items lying around, and avoid over-watering indoor plants. Regularly clean and dry your bathroom, kitchen, and other high-moisture areas to prevent mold from taking hold.

Use mold-resistant materials

When renovating or building, consider using mold-resistant materials, such as mold-resistant drywall, paint, and insulation. These materials are designed to resist mold growth and can help in preventing mold problems in your home.

Gutters and downspouts

Gutters and downspouts play a crucial role in directing water away from your home. Make sure your gutters and downspouts are clean and free of debris, and that they are directing water away from your home's foundation. Properly functioning gutters and downspouts can prevent water from seeping into your home and causing moisture problems.

In conclusion, controlling moisture is essential in preventing mold growth in your home. By promptly fixing leaks, ensuring proper ventilation, controlling indoor humidity, insulating properly, keeping your home clean and dry, using mold-resistant materials, and maintaining your gutters and downspouts, you can effectively prevent mold from taking hold in your home. Regular inspections and maintenance are key to identifying and addressing any moisture issues before they turn into mold problems. By following these tips, you can create a healthy and mold-free environment in your home.

Mastering Mold: Essential Tips for Preventing Mold Growth in Your Home

4/28/2023 (Permalink)

Make your home a healthy living environment for your family.

Mold growth in homes can be a common problem that not only damages the aesthetic appeal of your living space. Mold thrives in moist environments and can spread quickly. Fortunately, preventing mold in your home is possible with proper moisture control. In this blog, we will explore some tips to help you keep mold at bay and maintain a healthy living environment.

Identify and Fix Water Leaks

Water leaks can occur in various places in your home, such as pipes, roofs, windows, and foundations. Identifying and fixing these leaks as soon as possible is crucial in preventing mold growth. Regularly inspect your home for signs of water damage, such as water stains, musty odors, and dampness. If you notice any leaks, have them repaired promptly by a professional to prevent moisture buildup and mold growth.

Maintain Proper Ventilation

Proper ventilation is essential in preventing mold growth. Moisture tends to accumulate in areas with poor air circulation, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. Make sure your home is properly ventilated by using exhaust fans in high-moisture areas, opening windows to allow fresh air to circulate, and using dehumidifiers in humid areas. Good ventilation helps to reduce excess moisture, making it harder for mold to grow.

Control Indoor Humidity

Mold thrives in humid environments, so controlling indoor humidity levels is crucial in preventing mold growth. Keep indoor humidity levels below 50% by using a hygrometer to measure humidity levels and using a dehumidifier or air conditioner to reduce excess moisture in the air. Avoid drying clothes indoors, and make sure your home is well-ventilated to prevent humidity from building up.

Insulate Your Home

Proper insulation is important in preventing mold growth. Insulate your home properly to prevent condensation and moisture buildup on walls, ceilings, and floors. Insulated windows and doors can also help prevent moisture from seeping into your home, reducing the chances of mold growth.

Pay Attention to Outdoor Drainage

Proper outdoor drainage is essential in preventing moisture from seeping into your home. Make sure your gutters and downspouts are clean and functioning properly to prevent water from overflowing and causing moisture problems. Ensure that the ground around your home slopes away from your foundation to prevent water from pooling and seeping into your basement or crawl space.

Keep Air Ducts Clean

Your home's HVAC system plays a crucial role in maintaining indoor air quality. Dirty air ducts can harbor dust, debris, and mold spores, which can circulate in your home and contribute to mold growth. Regularly clean and maintain your air ducts to prevent mold from spreading through the ventilation system. Hire a professional duct cleaning service to ensure thorough cleaning and maintenance.

Be Mindful of Basement and Crawl Space

Basements and crawl spaces are prone to moisture issues due to their location below ground level. Regularly inspect these areas for signs of moisture, such as dampness, musty odors, or water stains. Install a vapor barrier and use a dehumidifier in these areas to control moisture levels and prevent mold growth.

In conclusion, mold growth in homes can be prevented with proper moisture control. Regular inspection, prompt repair of water leaks, adequate ventilation, controlling indoor humidity, proper insulation, keeping your home clean and dry, addressing condensation, prompt action after floods or water damage, mindful indoor plant care, using mold-resistant materials, clean air ducts, and proper care of basement and crawl spaces are some key steps to prevent mold growth. By implementing these tips and being proactive in moisture control, you can safeguard your home against mold and maintain a healthy living environment for you and your family.

Prevent water damage while on Vacation

3/13/2023 (Permalink)

Take precautions when you leave for vacation.

Vacationers, beware! Water damage can be costly and a messy hassle to deal with when you're already away from home. If you haven't already done so, it's important that you take precautions to prevent water damage in your home while you're on vacation. Follow these simple tips for preventing water damage on vacation.

Water damage can be costly.

Vacationers' homes can be left vulnerable to water damage if they're not careful. Water damage is a serious problem that can cost homeowners thousands of dollars in repairs. While vacationers may think they'll be back before any problems arise, it can take weeks or months for insurance claims to be processed and repaired homes restored by contractors. And even then, some types of water damage can be difficult or impossible to repair after the fact, especially if you don't know what signs indicate that there might be an issue at all.

A quick action plan.

Water damage can be expensive to repair and cause serious secondary damages if you don't take the right steps to prevent water damage while away from home.

The best way to prevent water damage is by scheduling regular maintenance with a professional plumber who knows your plumbing system inside and out and who will know how best to handle any situation that arises when you're away from home for an extended period of time.

Keep appliances clean and dry.

Make sure all appliances are clean and dry to prevent any water damage could become a potential loss. Don't leave the dishwasher running when you're not home and ensure now water is sitting in the bottom before leaving that could cause a water loss. Don't leave the washing machine running when you're not home. And most importantly don't leave the dryer running when you're not home which could lead to a potential fire.

Make sure your home is properly insulated.

Water damage is a common problem for many homeowners, but it's easy to prevent. By making sure that your home has proper insulation and ventilation, you can limit the amount of moisture in the air and keep yourself safe from mold and mildew growth.

Maintaining proper insulation levels in your home will help prevent cold drafts from entering through cracks in walls or windowsills. This not only keeps out unwanted weather conditions out but it also helps keep heat inside during winter months. In addition, insulation reduces noise pollution by dampening sounds from outside sources such as traffic or neighbors, tv and even foot steps from upstairs. Lastly, improved energy efficiency leads directly back into saving money on utility bills each month.

Install a backup sump pump system.

A backup sump pump system is a highly beneficial and cost-effective way to prevent water damage on vacation. It's easy to install, and it can be placed anywhere in your home or office.

A backup sump pump system works by pumping water out of the basement when storms are approaching. This prevents flooding from occurring, which is especially important if you have valuables stored dow stairs ere such as electronics or furniture that could be ruined by water damage. Store valuables in waterproof containers until you return home.

Water damage can be prevented, but it takes effort and planning ahead of time

Water damage can be a costly problem. It's also preventable, but the key is to plan ahead of time and take precautions. Make sure your home is secure before you leave. Make sure that all windows and doors are locked, and don't forget about things like garage doors and automatic gates.

Keep an eye on weather forecasts for where you're going especially if there's been recent flooding or other extreme weather events nearby. Check local news reports online as well to ensure your home id safe while left unattended.

While it's tempting to leave everything behind when you go on vacation, it's important to take precautions against water damage. The best way to do this is by making sure your home is properly insulated and has backup sump pump systems installed. If you have any questions about how these systems work or whether they're right for your home, contact us today!

Protect your home from Water Damage

3/7/2023 (Permalink)

Protect your home from water damage.

Water damage is one of the most common problems homeowners face. It can range from small leaks and moisture stains to major floods that destroy your home’s structure. If you suspect that there’s water damage in your house, don’t hesitate to call a professional for help. This guide will give you some tips for preventing water damage in your home so that you don't have to deal with this issue before it becomes a problem!

Check your house for signs of water damage.

Check the basement, attic and crawl spaces. Look for signs of water damage on the walls and floor. Keep a check on windows and doors for signs of water damage, especially after a storm or flood.

Keep an eye on your water bill for unusual spikes.

One of the best ways to tell if your home has experienced water damage is by checking the water bill. If you notice an unusual spike in your usage, it could be an indicator that there's been some type of leak or flooding in your house.

If this happens, check around for signs of damage--a burst pipe may have caused wet carpeting or walls; a leaking roof could mean mold growth on wood surfaces (like in basements). If there are no visible signs of damage, call up your utility company right away so they can come out and check their meters before any more charges get added onto your bill.

Look for signs of wear in your pipes and faucets.

Look for signs of wear in your pipes and faucets. If you see any, it's time to call a plumber.

Faucet washers can wear out over time, causing water leaks that lead to costly repairs or replacement. The same thing can happen with pipes if they're exposed to hard water or acidic solutions (like bleach), which corrode them from the inside out.

Look out for cracks in the foundation of your home.

If you notice cracks in the foundation walls, or if there are any holes in the floorboards and wallboards, it may be time to call a professional. The best way to ensure that your home is safe from water damage is by getting an inspection. If you do find signs of water damage after a storm or flood, contact a contractor immediately so they can fix the problem before it gets worse.

Regularly clean out the gutters on your house.

Regularly cleaning the gutters on your home is one of the best ways to prevent water damage. If you don't clear debris from your gutters, leaves and other debris can clog them, causing water to back up in your home. To avoid this, remove leaves from the gutter before they have a chance to block it. You should also make sure that rainwater isn't pooling on top of a leaf pile or other type of obstruction, if there is too much pressure against these barriers, they may give way and allow water into places where it shouldn't go--like behind walls or under floors.

Make sure that you're not overwatering your lawn.

Overwatering is another major cause of water damage to your home. When you have a lawn, it's important to make sure that you're not overwatering it. Overwatering can cause root damage and lead to disease or insect infestations, which will damage the grass even more.

The best way to prevent this is by using a soil moisture meter and watering deeply but infrequently (once per week). You should also use a sprinkler with a low flow rate so that there isn't too much pressure on the roots when they are exposed during watering cycles.

Preventing water damage

Preventing water damage is much easier than dealing with it once it occurs. Water damage can be very expensive to fix. If you don't want to spend the money or time that comes with repairing water damage, make sure there's no standing water in your home by checking sinks and tubs regularly for leaks (and fixing them when necessary).

We understand that water damage can be a stressful situation to deal with, but the good news is that there are many things you can do to protect yourself from it. Water damage can be expensive and time-consuming to repair, so taking steps now will help ensure that your home stays dry for years to come!

Mold: Questions You Might Be Afraid to Ask

1/10/2023 (Permalink)

Mold growth in bathtub caulking

FAQ: Mold

Mold is a fungus that can grow on many surfaces indoors. It thrives in warm, damp environments. When you breathe in mold spores, they can cause health problems. If your home has mold growing on walls, ceilings, or floors, we recommend hiring a professional to remove the mold and make repairs before it spreads further into the structure of your home. Here are some common questions about mold that you may not know the answers to:

What is mold?

It is true that mold can be found almost everywhere. While it's not always bad to have a few molds in your home, if you have an extensive problem or there are people who are allergic to them, it can become a serious problem. Molds are a type of fungus that comes in many shapes and forms. In fact, there are over 100,000 different types of molds!

Mold spores are microscopic organisms that grow on almost any surface (such as wood or paper). They spread by releasing millions of spores into the air around them—and if these spores land somewhere with enough moisture and food (like in your carpet), they'll start growing more molds. This means that mold moves around from place to place easily; which means you could get some from one room to another just by going from one room to another!

How does mold get in my home?

You're not alone in your fear of mold. It's a problem that affects the health of millions of people, and it can be hard to tell if you have mold growing in your home. Mold spores are everywhere—in soil, plants, trees, on all kinds of surfaces—and they're brought into homes by air currents. They can also enter through windows and doors when they're left open or there's been a water leak in the house. If you leave a window or door open during bad weather, this is another way for mold spores to get inside.

The most common way for mold to get into your home is via water leaks such as those caused by floods or burst pipes (or even from taking showers!). If you notice any dampness on walls or ceilings that doesn't go away after drying out properly then chances are good that it's because of some kind of leak somewhere inside the building itself - which means there may be hidden problems with moisture control that need addressing before long!

What does mold need to grow?

Mold needs a few things to grow. The first thing is moisture. It's no secret that mold thrives in damp environments, but it can grow even if there is just a little bit of moisture present. The second thing mold needs to grow is food sources for its colonies. This means any organic material like wood, drywall, or cardboard makes for an ideal food source for mold to consume as it grows. Mold also needs temperatures between 70-90 degrees Fahrenheit (21-32 Celsius) to survive.

Can mold grow on my clothes?

Yes, mold can grow on clothes. It’s actually common for mold to grow in your dryer lint trap and on damp clothes when you hang them up to dry. Whether or not your clothing is likely to sustain damage from this depends largely on what kind of fabric it is made from. Dry cleaning materials are more resistant to mold than other fabrics, but they can still become damaged if you don’t remove the moldy clothing right away.

Can mold grow on tile and grout or bathtub caulking?

Yes, mold can grow on tile and grout. Mold growth on grout may be more likely in an area that has had moisture problems or where there is poor ventilation. In addition, if the grout is older than 10 years old, it may be more porous and vulnerable to fungal growth.

Mold can also grow on bathtub caulking around the tub edge or between a bathtub and its surrounding wall. If you have questions about whether your caulking needs cleaning or replacing, contact a professional contractor for advice before doing any work yourself.

Why should I hire a professional to clean up a mold problem in my home?

Mold remediation is a specialized field. While most contractors can remove mold, they don't have the expertise and equipment needed to fully clean up your home and prevent future mold growth. If you hire a professional contractor, they will use specialized equipment to safely remove all of the molds in your home. They'll also make sure that there are no hidden reservoirs of moisture where more mold can grow later on. If you want your home to be completely safe from future molds, hire a professional like SERVPRO of Central East Baton Rouge. We will remediate the mold in your Baton Rouge, LA home and get you back to normal as quickly as possible. 

5 Essential Items to Have During an Emergency

12/7/2022 (Permalink)

Create an emergency kit for yourself and your family.

How To Prepare For An Emergency

You are reading this article because you want to know what essential items you should have on hand in case of an emergency. That's a good place to start. But it's also important to remember that emergencies don't always happen at convenient times or places—and they affect more than just your home and immediate family. So, think about how you can best prepare for an emergency by creating an emergency kit for yourself and your family, including pets if possible!

Food and Water

Food and water are essential to survival. It's best to store at least 72 hours worth of food and water per person, but if you can afford it, go ahead and stock up on more. This is especially important if you have children or elderly family members as well as pets or other animals—you should be prepared for them too!

Clothing and Bedding

Clothing should be comfortable, versatile and easy to put on. Bring layered clothing that will protect you from the elements, rather than just one or two pieces of clothing that you would need to change into if your home were to become inaccessible due to flooding or fire. Include shoes and socks so that the entire family has something warm with which to walk if necessary. A hat and gloves are also important because they can help keep your head warm in cold temperatures or protect it from sunburn on sunny days when there's no shade available for protection.

First-Aid Supplies

As you plan for an emergency, it’s important to be prepared with the right first-aid supplies. This can include a first-aid kit and other life-saving items such as bandages, tape, scissors, gauze pads and more. A basic kit should contain:

• Bandages of different sizes
• Adhesive tape in several widths
• Scissors for cutting the tape or fabric bandages
• Sterile pads like gauze dressing pads or sterile eye pad strips (for covering wounds on your face)
• Nonadherent dressings (these are adhesive dressings that do not stick to skin)

Tools and Emergency Supplies

Have a fire extinguisher and make sure that it is in working order. You can buy an inexpensive one at your local hardware store, or you could get one of the more expensive models that can be used on all kinds of fires.

If there is a fire, you should also have items for getting out of your house if necessary. This might include a flashlight and extra batteries for it, along with rope or string so you can make a rope ladder from the roof to the ground if needed. You may also want to have a first aid kit with some basic supplies like bandages and antibiotic ointment in case someone gets injured during an evacuation due to smoke inhalation or other problems caused by the fire itself (such as burns).

It's also important to keep extra batteries for any electronic devices such as phones or tablets because they may not work after an emergency situation due to power loss or network coverage issues caused by damage done during disasters such as floods or earthquakes."

Special Items

If you have a household member who requires special items during an emergency, be sure to include them in your kit. It’s important to keep medications on hand at all times, but in an emergency situation where there may not be accessible to a pharmacy or doctor, it’s more crucial than ever. In addition to medications for chronic conditions such as asthma and diabetes, having basic first aid supplies can make life much easier for those with special needs. If you have someone with limited mobility or sight (for example), the ability to move around independently might be even more important than usual.

Also consider including items that are necessary for children: diapers, formula, and baby food if applicable; blankets; books; games and activities that require little set-up time (think travel versions of popular board games). Make sure these are already packed before any kind of situation arises so everyone can focus on whatever crisis is happening outside their home instead of worrying about making sure they have everything they need inside their house too!"

Create a Disaster Plan

The more prepared you are, the greater chance you have of making it through an emergency unscathed. If you’re part of a larger community—for example, if there is an office or school nearby—you may also want to work together on creating a shared disaster plan.

The goods included in this kit will vary depending on what type of emergency it is that's being faced, but all essentials should be portable and easy to carry around with you if necessary (though not too heavy). Remember: food and water are vital!

If your home were hit by a natural disaster like fire or flooding, how would you take care of yourself? Can someone else take care of themselves? When the electricity goes out during a storm or earthquake, how do you cook food so everyone stays healthy?

A disaster can happen at any time, but you’ll be prepared if you have the right supplies on hand. As we know from experience, being prepared with a plan and supplies is essential to keeping your family safe during an emergency. We hope this article has given you some ideas about what to include in your own emergency kit so that everyone in your household is ready for anything life throws their way!

If your home or business is struck by fire, water, or storm, SERVPRO of Central East Baton Rouge is here to help you restore your Baton Rouge property back to its preloss condition.