Recent Storm Damage Posts
Flood Insurance
8/15/2022 (Permalink)
Heavy rainfall can cause flooding whether you are ready for it or not! Do yourself a favor and get flood insurance to cover that just in case!
The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) is managed by the FEMA and is delivered to the public by a network of more than 50 insurance companies and the NFIP Direct.
Floods can happen anywhere — just one inch of floodwater can cause up to $25,000 in damage. Most homeowners insurance does not cover flood damage. Flood insurance is a separate policy that can cover buildings, the contents in a building, or both, so it is important to protect your most important financial assets — your home, your business, your possessions.
The NFIP provides flood insurance to property owners, renters and businesses, and having this coverage helps them recover faster when floodwaters recede. The NFIP works with communities required to adopt and enforce floodplain management regulations that help mitigate flooding effects.
Flood insurance is available to anyone living in one of the 23,000 participating NFIP communities. Homes and businesses in high-risk flood areas with mortgages from government-backed lenders are required to have flood insurance.
How to Purchase Flood Insurance
To purchase flood insurance, call your insurance company or insurance agent, the same person who sells your home or auto insurance. If you need help finding a provider go to FloodSmart.gov/flood-insurance-provider or call the NFIP at 877-336-2627.
Plan ahead as there is typically a 30-day waiting period for an NFIP policy to go into effect, unless the coverage is mandated it is purchased as required by a federally backed lender or is related to a community flood map change.
SOURCE: fema.gov/flood-insurance
2022 Storm Season Prediction Above Normal
7/17/2022 (Permalink)
NOAA predicts above-normal 2022 Atlantic Hurricane Season. Ongoing La Niña, above-average Atlantic temperatures set the stage for busy season ahead.
Forecasters at NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center, a division of the National Weather Service, are predicting above-average hurricane activity this year — which would make it the seventh consecutive above-average hurricane season. NOAA’s outlook for the 2022 Atlantic hurricane season, which extends from June 1 to November 30, predicts a 65% chance of an above-normal season, a 25% chance of a near-normal season and a 10% chance of a below-normal season.
For the 2022 hurricane season, NOAA is forecasting a likely range of 14 to 21 named storms (winds of 39 mph or higher), of which 6 to 10 could become hurricanes (winds of 74 mph or higher), including 3 to 6 major hurricanes (category 3, 4 or 5; with winds of 111 mph or higher). NOAA provides these ranges with a 70% confidence.
“Early preparation and understanding your risk is key to being hurricane resilient and climate-ready,” said Secretary of Commerce Gina M. Raimondo. “Throughout the hurricane season, NOAA experts will work around-the-clock to provide early and accurate forecasts and warnings that communities in the path of storms can depend on to stay informed.”
The increased activity anticipated this hurricane season is attributed to several climate factors, including the ongoing La Niña that is likely to persist throughout the hurricane season, warmer-than-average sea surface temperatures in the Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea, weaker tropical Atlantic trade winds and an enhanced west African monsoon. An enhanced west African monsoon supports stronger African Easterly Waves, which seed many of the strongest and longest lived hurricanes during most seasons. The way in which climate change impacts the strength and frequency of tropical cyclones is a continuous area of study for NOAA scientists.
If any of these hurricanes hit our local area, SERVPRO of Dale City/Lake Ridge is here to help @ 703-583-8484.
Source: noaa.gov
Summer Storms? Lightning Safety Tips
6/15/2022 (Permalink)
Lightning kills around 20 people in the United States each year. These lightning safety tips can keep you and your family safe.
Lightning: What You Need to Know
- NO PLACE outside is safe when thunderstorms are in the area!!
- If you hear thunder, lightning is close enough to strike you.
- When you hear thunder, immediately move to safe shelter: a substantial building with electricity or plumbing or an enclosed, metal-topped vehicle with windows up.
- Stay in safe shelter at least 30 minutes after you hear the last sound of thunder.
Indoor Lightning Safety
- Stay off corded phones, computers and other electrical equipment that put you in direct contact with electricity.
- Avoid plumbing, including sinks, baths and faucets.
- Stay away from windows and doors, and stay off porches.
- Do not lie on concrete floors, and do not lean against concrete walls.
Last Resort Outdoor Risk Reduction Tips
If you are caught outside with no safe shelter anywhere nearby the following actions may reduce your risk:
- Immediately get off elevated areas such as hills, mountain ridges or peaks
- Never lie flat on the ground
- Never shelter under an isolated tree
- Never use a cliff or rocky overhang for shelter
- Immediately get out and away from ponds, lakes and other bodies of water
- Stay away from objects that conduct electricity (barbed wire fences, power lines, windmills, etc.)
SERVPRO of Dale City/Lake Ridge & SERVPRO of Woodbridge/Lorton are always here to help with all of your storm needs 24/7!!
703-583-8484
SOURCE: weather.gov/safety/lightning
More Lightning Safety Tips
What's the Difference Between a Hurricane "Watch" and "Warning"?
6/15/2022 (Permalink)
Knowing the difference between a Hurricane Watch & a Hurricane Warning is important!
Know the difference between a hurricane “watch” and “warning.”
Listen for National Weather Service alerts on TV or radio or check for them online. There are two kinds of alerts:
- A hurricane watch means hurricane conditions (sustained winds of 74 miles per hour [mph] or higher) are possible in a stated area. Experts announce hurricane watches 48 hours before they expect tropical-storm-force winds (sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph) to start.
- A hurricane warning is more serious. It means hurricane-force winds are expected in a stated area. Experts issue these warnings 36 hours before tropical-storm-force winds are expected in the area to give people enough time to prepare for the storm.
For more information about hurricane watches and warnings, check out the National Weather Service’s Hurricane Centerexternal icon. If you hear that there is a hurricane watch or warning in your area, you need to take the proper steps to get ready.
SERVPRO of Dale City/Lake Ridge and the SERVPRO of Woodbridge/Lorton are always here to help!
SOURCE: cdc.gov/disasters/hurricanes/
Summer Storms Can Cause Rip Currents
6/15/2022 (Permalink)
Rip Currents can be life threatening. Learn the tips in this article to keep you and your family safe!
What Are Rip Currents?
* Rip currents are channelized currents of water flowing away from shore at surf beaches.
* Rip currents typically form at breaks in sandbars, and also near structures such as jetties and piers.
* Rip currents are commonly found on all surf beaches.
Why Are Rip Currents Dangerous?
* Rip currents pull people away from shore.
* Rip current speeds can vary from moment to moment and can quickly increase to become dangerous to anyone entering the surf.
* Rip currents can sweep even the strongest swimmer away from shore.
* A scientific review of data provided to the United States Lifesaving Association found that there are over 100 deaths each year in the U.S. attributed to rip currents.
* Rip currents account for over 80% of rescues performed by surf beach lifeguards.
What Are Clues That Rip Currents Are Present?
* A narrow gap of darker, seemingly calmer water between areas of breaking waves and whitewater.
* A channel of churning, choppy water.
* A difference in water color.
* A line of foam, seaweed or debris moving seaward.
How Can I Protect Myself From Rip Currents?
* Always swim in an area protected by lifeguards
* Consult lifeguards before entering the water.
* Assume that rip currents are always present at surf beaches.
* Learn to swim in the surf and make sure your children can swim in the surf. Pool swimming is not the same as swimming at a surf beach.
* Learn to identify rip currents and take the time to evaluate the water before you enter the water.
What If I'm Caught In a Rip Current?
* Relax, rip currents don't pull you under.
* Don’t swim against the current.
* You may be able to escape by swimming out of the current in a direction following the shoreline, or toward breaking waves, then at an angle toward the beach.
* You may be able to escape by floating or treading water if the current circulates back toward shore.
* If you feel you will be unable to reach shore, draw attention to yourself. If you need help, yell and wave for assistance.
How Do I Help Someone Else?
***Don't become a victim while trying to help someone else! Many people have died trying to help a friend in a rip current!
* Get help from a lifeguard.
* If a lifeguard is not present, call 9-1-1, then try to direct the victim to swim following the shoreline to escape.
* If possible, throw the rip current victim something that floats.
* Never enter the water without a flotation device.
Facts About Rip Currents
* Rip currents do not pull people under the water—they pull people away from shore.
* Rip current speeds vary. Average speeds are 1-2 feet per second, but they have been measured as fast as 8 feet per second—faster than an Olympic swimmer!
* Rip currents can be very narrow or more than 50 yards wide.
* Sometimes a rip current ends just beyond the line of breaking waves; however, others may continue to flow hundreds of yards offshore.
* Rip currents are sometimes mistakenly called undertow or riptides but these terms are not correct. Only the term rip currents is technically correct.
SERVPRO of Dale City/Lake Ridge & SERVPRO of Woodbridge/Lorton hope these tips help keep you and your family safe at the beach this summer!
SOURCE: usla.org/ripcurrents
PREPARE for Hurricanes
5/24/2022 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Dale City/Lake Ridge & SERVPRO of Woodbridge/Lorton are always here to help with all of your storm clean-up needs. 703-583-8484
Prepare for Hurricanes
Know Your Hurricane Risk
Hurricanes are not just a coastal problem. Find out how rain, wind, water and even tornadoes could happen far inland from where a hurricane or tropical storm makes landfall. Start preparing now.
Make an Emergency Plan
Make sure everyone in your household knows and understands your hurricane plans. Include the office, kids’ day care, and anywhere else you frequent in your hurricane plans. Ensure your business has a continuity plan to continue operating when disaster strikes.
Know your Evacuation Zone
You may have to evacuate quickly due to a hurricane if you live in an evacuation zone. Learn your evacuation routes, practice with your household and pets, and identify where you will stay.
- Follow the instructions from local emergency managers, who work closely with state, local, tribal, and territorial agencies and partners. They will provide the latest recommendations based on the threat to your community and appropriate safety measures.
Recognize Warnings and Alerts
Have several ways to receive alerts. Download the FEMA app and receive real-time alerts from the National Weather Service for up to five locations nationwide. Sign up for community alerts in your area and be aware of the Emergency Alert System (EAS) and Wireless Emergency Alert (WEA), which require no sign up.
Those with Disabilities
Identify if you may need additional help during an emergency if you or anyone else in your household is an individual with a disability.
Review Important Documents
Make sure your insurance policies and personal documents, such as ID, are up to date. Make copies and keep them in a secure password-protected digital space.
Strengthen your Home
De-clutter drains and gutters, bring in outside furniture, and consider hurricane shutters.
Get Tech Ready
Keep your cell phone charged when you know a hurricane is in the forecast and purchase backup charging devices to power electronics.
Help your Neighborhood
Check with neighbors, senior adults, or those who may need additional help securing hurricane plans to see how you can be of assistance to others
Gather Supplies
Have enough supplies for your household, include medication, disinfectant supplies and pet supplies in your go bag or car trunk. You may not have access to these supplies for days or even weeks after a hurricane.
SOURCE: ready.gov/hurricanes
FASTER to any size Disaster
3/30/2022 (Permalink)
Too much soap can cause an overflow. We are always here to help with big or small water losses.
There’s no such thing as a small disaster – especially when the water you don’t see contains bacteria or can cause mold, rot, and other unseen damage. Water damage can affect the value of your property. Before you get out the mop bucket and try to clean it yourself, consider how the damage can affect your property.
SERVPRO Dale City/Lake Ridge knows how disruptive water damage can be for your business. We are trained and equipped to manage the drying process. Using proper equipment and moisture measuring devices, your building will be quickly and thoroughly dried to industry standards, which will help prevent secondary water damages. With rapid response time and full line of water cleanup and restoration services, SERVPRO Dale City/Lake Ridge can help you regain control quickly, ensuring your facility and its contents are property dried, deodorized and protected.
When fire or water take control of your life, we help you take it back.
Before you risk further damaging the value of your facility by attempting to clean up the mess yourself, call our office at 703-583-8484.
Preparing for Storms with Technology
8/18/2021 (Permalink)
In Northern Virginia, it is important to always be ready for a storm and disaster can strike at a moment’s notice!
Technology is working hard to let us be aware of danger with more time to prepare before it hits! Technology can also be a vital tool in preparing for emergencies or disasters, as well as during or after to stay informed of the situation and in communication with others. From common technology you already use on a day-to-day basis to taking a few extra steps to prepare. Below are a few things that will help you be ready in the event of an emergency or disaster.
Store Information Online
There are many places to store important information securely online. Services like Google Drive and Dropbox offer a free way to store different types of files, from a Word document to images of important documents. Ready.gov suggests saving an electronic version of insurance policies, identification documents, medical records, and information on your pets, if necessary.
Follow the News
Stay informed by following agencies such as FEMA, local news channels, and local government on Twitter for the most up-to-date information in a disaster situation. You can also alert first responders if a rescue is needed through Twitter.
Mark Yourself Safe
The American Red Cross offers a Safe & Well check-in site to list yourself as safe or find family and friends in situations where communication is difficult to establish. Facebook also has a feature called Safety Check that is activated after natural disasters or a crisis. You will receive a notification from Facebook if you’re located in the affected area at that time.
Get in Touch
Make sure your contact information is current in your phone and e-mail for communication with family, friends, business contacts, and others whom you may need to get in contact with before, during, or after a disaster.
Charge Up
Keep a portable charger in your car and home in case of an emergency. You may need to recharge this from time to time, but you can also buy solar-powered chargers as well.
A completed Emergency READY Profile, FREE from SERVPRO of Dale City/Lake Ridge and SERVPRO of Woodbridge/Lorton, will provide you a detailed assessment of your facility to help
Three Tips From the Pros for Preparing Your Northern Virginia Business For a Flood Event
7/12/2021 (Permalink)
When flooding affects your area, your business may be at risk. If flood waters are powerful enough, they can force their way into your building and cause damage to floors, walls, and your inventory. However, if you know that a flood is imminent, there are a few ways you can protect your business and minimize the destruction that a natural disaster like this might cause.
- Make Backup Copies of Important Data
If you know your building may suffer storm damage, it is important to make data backup a high priority. Shipping records, customer data and inventory records may not be retrievable if your computer system is damaged by water. Having multiple files of this information can save you time and money in the aftermath of the flood. Consider cloud storage for real-time data retrieval.
2. Rent or Purchase a Sump Pump
If your building sits on low ground and your basement or crawl space is prone to flooding, then you may want to invest in a sump pump. This machine is often used by flood damage and restoration service technicians such as our team at SERVPRO of Dale City/Lake Ridge and SERVPRO of Woodbridge/Lorton. The sump pump drains away excess water from the area where it located. Portable and underwater pumps can reduce the amount of standing water you may encounter after the flood.
3. Do Not Hesitate To Act
Flood damage can happen quickly, especially in the case of flash floods. If you suspect this might happen, evacuate your business quickly and ensure that customers and employees are safe. Heavy rains can cause this type of flooding, so it is wise to be vigilant and watch your local weather to be aware of any watches or warnings. If you realize a flood is imminent, shut down vital systems and try to seal off doors and windows after the building is empty.
When flooding impacts your area, you may be concerned about the best way to protect your business. However, knowing how to be proactive and prepare yourself for a flood can reduce the damage and give you peace of mind both before and after the event.
WHEN LIFE’S STORMS ROLL IN, LEAVE THE CHURCH RESTORATION TO US SO YOU CAN CONTINUE RESTORING LIVES
7/1/2021 (Permalink)
Your Northern Virginia church is your congregation’s shelter, helping shield them from the storms of life. But if life’s literal storms damage your place of worship, or if your cleaning needs go beyond the reach of your staff, call our team at SERVPRO of Dale City/Lake Ridge and SERVPRO of Woodbridge/Lorton. No stain is too small, and no storm damage is too big for our franchise professionals. We have the training, experience, and equipment to restore and clean churches quickly, helping make it “Like it never even happened.”
Church building emergencies can happen to anyone at any time. Creating a contingency plan for when that happens is critical to getting back in business and recovering from setbacks as quickly as possible. SERVPRO has created a program that allows one of our trained professionals to come to your church and create an Emergency Ready Profile (ERP). Our team at SERVPRO of Dale City/Lake Ridge and SERVPRO of Woodbridge/Lorton is here to help with that burden through our free service of developing an Emergency Ready Profile for your church. Having a profile of this caliber minimizes the disruption your congregation would face if an emergency should occur.
Our ERPs document specifics of your building including the most critical areas, electrical shutoffs, water mains, fire extinguishers, and much more. We see the ERP as a living document because of the ease of access and ability to make changes at any time and from any of your devices. It’s shareable with your key staff and property committee, providing easy communication.
What an ERP includes:
- A no cost assessment of your church, building by building.
- A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency.
- A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster.
- Establishes your local SERVPRO Franchise professional as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider.
- Identification of the line of command authorizing work to begin.
- Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas, and priority contact information.
If you are interested in the ERP program and would like to have one of our team members meet with you to discuss your needs, please contact us and we will be happy to help you! Preparation is the first step to recovery. Guard your church and give us a call at SERVPRO of Dale City/Lake Ridge and SERVPRO of Woodbridge/Lorton today 703-583-8484! When life’s storms roll in, leave the building restoration to us so you can continue restoring lives.
Types of National Weather Service Alerts
6/9/2021 (Permalink)
There are several types of severe weather that impact Northern Virginia and the surrounding areas that can cause the National Weather Service (NWS) to issue an alert. Alerts are issued to make the population of the impacted area aware of the potential dangers that they could be facing, and hopefully allow them time to adequately prepare for the impending acclimate conditions. There are several different types of alerts that can issued, varying in degree by the potential risk associated with that type of weather. The three most common classes of alerts issued by the NWS are watches, warnings, and advisories. Watches, warnings, and advisories can be triggered by several different types of weather phenomena, such as floods, thunderstorms, tornadoes, and even excessive heat. Below are the definitions of each alert to help you better understand the distinctions between them:
A watch is issued when there is chance this condition will occur, and generally covers a larger geographic area over a longer period.
A warning means that the weather is already occurring or has a high likelihood of occurring soon and advises the population of the impacted area to take proper protective measures.
Advisories are issued when a certain type of weather has a fair chance of occurring, but advisories are typically used for less severe types of weather conditions (i.e., the issuance of a wind advisory rather than a high wind warning).
Now that you understand the differences between watches, warnings, and advisories here are the criteria for some of the issues that are most issued for our region by the governing NWS office:
Freezing Rain/ Drizzle Advisory Issued when freezing rain is predicted to cause travel problems, but not exceed an accumulation of ¼”.
Ice Storm Warning Issued when freezing rain is expected to produce ice accumulations of 1/4” or greater, and significantly disrupt traffic and utilities.
Severe Thunderstorm Warning This type of alert occurs when there is a reliable report that a thunderstorm is producing or will soon produce gusts of wind of 58 mph or greater, structural wind damage, and/or hail with a diameter of 1” or greater.
Flash Flood Watch Issued when an area is facing the possibility of flash flooding within the next 36 hours.
Flash Flood Warning Issued when a flash flood is predicted to occur in the next future, generally within the next 1 to 3 hours.
Hopefully knowing the difference between these weather alerts can help you adjust your expectations and better prepare for the occurrence of acclimate weather. Our team at SERVPRO of Dale City/Lake Ridge and SERVPRO of Woodbridge/Lorton is here to help you restore your Northern Virginia home or business if disaster does strike. We’re available 24/7 at 703-583-8484.
Sources:
https://www.weather.gov/oun/spotter-wwa-definitions
Power Outages: When Storms Affect Your Northern Virginia Residence
5/12/2021 (Permalink)
Being without power for a short or extended period can be a costly factor for some homeowners
Experiencing severe storms in Northern Virginia can lead to one of the most significant factors preventing residents from the task of recovering and assessing their property damage, which is power outages. Being without power for a short or extended period can be a costly factor for some homeowners.
Knowing how to prepare for a power outage can help your family salvage more of your resources.
- Invest in flashlights, a battery-operated radio, and, of course, extra batteries. There are even lanterns used for camping that double as a phone charger. Remember to check your items occasionally to ensure they are all functioning properly and store them together for quick, easy access.
- Always have several bottles of water and a variety of snacks that do not require refrigeration.
- An easy-to-miss but crucial consideration: if you have medication that needs to be refrigerated, remember to ask your pharmacist for information on storing it during a power outage.
Tips for your family once the power is out:
- DO NOT open the refrigerator or freezer door if you can help it. Refrigerated food may stay cold (and safe for consumption) for up to 4 hours, while frozen food may last up to 48 hours if the freezer is densely packed (or 24 hours if it's not as full). For more on food safety in an emergency, visit the USDA website for guidelines.
- To avoid a power surge when the electricity returns, turn off computers, TVs, and other nonessential electronics. Be sure to leave a light on so you'll know when the power is restored.
- If someone has medical equipment that requires electricity, call for help or get them to a place where the power is working.
In the aftermath of a power outage due to harsh weather, practice extreme caution if you go outside to survey the damages after a storm. Remember that fallen trees or other wreckage can hide downed or hanging electrical wires. Always assume that a downed line is a live line and highly dangerous.
SERVPRO of Dale City/Lake Ridge and SERVPRO of Woodbridge/Lorton knows your family's welfare is your number one priority and wants everyone to be safe. Allow us to be there to help eliminate some of the burdens you're facing in the aftermath of any storm destruction inflicted upon your home.
Storm Flooding Isn’t Always Covered
4/1/2021 (Permalink)
Homeowners take comfort in knowing that they are protected against potential property perils through their insurance. However, many owners overestimate their coverage for flooding. While a homeowner’s policy may cover typical damages incurred during a storm’s high winds and heavy rains, like roof damage, only flood insurance may cover the sewer backup and mold growth caused by the storm. Unfortunately, many people in Northern Virginia do not purchase these integral policies, leaving their flood claim forever denied. Therefore, it is necessary to understand a homeowner’s coverage and how special policies may help in an emergency.
Wind
Many standard home insurance policies cover wind damage to an extent, meaning that they will cover damages typical to certain severe weather conditions. However, some storms may not be included in these plans, such as hurricanes. For hurricanes or other tropical storms, you may require an addendum to your existing policy or coverage from an outside source.
Water
Water can cause many problems during storms, some of which are covered by typical homeowner's policies. For instance, roof damage is likely covered, and that would include damage caused by standing water or water that made it through the membrane because of wind and debris damage. However, a storm that causes extensive flooding along with mold growth or sewer backups will probably require flood insurance.
Restoration
Once you understand what an insurer is likely to cover, you can get an idea of restoration costs. A restoration service in the Northern Virginia area is likely more than capable of rebuilding your home. While these businesses focus on cleaning and restoring your structure, they will also make suggestions for preventative tools, like storm shutters. Our team at SERVPRO of Dale City/Lake Ridge and SERVPRO of Woodbridge/Lorton is here to help and just a phone call away at 703-583-8484.
When the Storm Rolls Out, Our Team Rolls In
9/6/2020 (Permalink)
We Roll In When the Storm Rolls Out
Extreme weather and unexpected emergencies such as damage caused by hurricanes, heavy rain, flooding, snow, ice, and hail call for immediate action. Quick response to the disaster and exceptional communication is key to helping you get your life back to normal as soon as possible.
Our team at SERVPRO of Dale City/Lake Ridge and SERVPRO of Woodbridge/Lorton are prepared and ready for your call. Our standard of 1-4-8 means we will contact you within one hour of receiving your call, be on site at your property within 4 hours and provide you with a verbal briefing of the scope of work that needs to be performed within 8 hours. We have built our reputation in northern Virginia on rapid response times and pride ourselves on exceptional customer service.
After any water damage situation, safety should be your primary focus:
- Ask yourself if it is safe to stay in the home
- Electrical and "slip and fall" hazards are some of the most prevalent concerns
- Only do activities that are safe for you to perform
- Wet materials can be extremely heavy, use caution when moving these items
Storms occur with little warning and can be especially devastating, so you want the franchise professionals that you can trust to rise to the occasion. Regardless of the type of storm, our team at SERVPRO of Dale City/Lake Ridge and SERVPRO of Woodbridge/Lorton can handle any size disaster. With 15 years of experience serving the communities of northern Virginia, we’re always here to help.
Flood Safety in NOVA
7/22/2020 (Permalink)
A mere six inches of swiftly moving water can sweep you off your feet.
Flooding doesn’t always happen in Northern Virginia but did you know that 20% of all claims paid by the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) were for policies in low-risk areas? In fact, flooding is one of the most commonly widespread weather-related disasters. According to the American Red Cross, floods cause more damage in our country every year than any other weather-related disaster.
The American Red Cross offers the following safety tips:
Avoid floodwaters
A mere six inches of swiftly moving water can sweep you off your feet. If you approach a flowing stream of water that is above your ankles, stop, turn around, and go another way.
Driving in flooded areas
If you encounter a flooded road, turn around and go another way. Most cars can be swept away by less than two feet of moving water. If you are stranded on a flooded roadway and the water is rising rapidly, get out of the car immediately and seek higher ground.
Keep children out of the water
Children are naturally curious but often lack judgment about the dangers of running water caused by flooding or the contaminants it may contain.
Our goal at SERVPRO of Dale City/Lake Ridge and SERVPRO of Woodbridge/Lorton is to help you be prepared and ready. We know that even minor floods have the potential to cause major damage to a structure when not treated quickly and properly. Although the cleanup is often an overwhelming task, our team is prepared to handle any size disaster. We’re always here to help.
BE PREPARED WITH A BASIC EMERGENCY SUPPLY KIT
7/6/2020 (Permalink)
One way to prepare your home and business for any emergency is to create an emergency supply kit.
In Northern Virginia we are now a full month into Hurricane season. While it may be difficult to prepare for the unpredictable, there are steps you can take now to help ensure you are ready when disaster strikes. One way to prepare your home and business for any emergency is to create an emergency supply kit.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recommends the following items for a basic emergency supply kit:
- Water (one gallon per person per day)
- Food (non-perishable 3-day supply)
- Manual can opener
- Battery operated radio, preferably a NOAA Weather Radio
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- First aid kit
- Whistle to signal for help
- Clothing
- Dust masks or bandanas
- Plastic sheeting, garbage bags and duct tape
- Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
- Hygiene items
- Important Documents; copies of insurance policies, identification, and bank account information
- Cash
- Fire Extinguisher
- Matches in a waterproof container
As always, if you need our help, our team at SERVPRO of Dale City/Lake Ridge and SERVPRO of Woodbridge/Lorton is just a phone call away at 703-583-8484.
Be Ready, Be Prepared For Hurricanes in 2020
7/1/2020 (Permalink)
Even if no risk of a hurricane is evident just now, make sure you and your family are prepared.
Coastal residents in Northern Virginia are not the only people affected by hurricanes. These storms may still cause damage even if you live hundreds of miles from the shore. If you live in an area where hurricanes are a risk, you need a plan.
CDC can help you make an emergency plan. Go to Make a Plan: Develop a Family Disaster Plan for help.
Be Ready
Even if no risk of a hurricane is evident just now, make sure you and your family are prepared.
- Stock up on emergency supplies for your home and car.
- Write down emergency phone numbers and keep them near every phone in your home or on the refrigerator. Program them into your cell phone as well.
- Buy a fire extinguisher and make certain your family knows where to find it and how to operate it.
- Find where the nearest shelter is located and the different routes you can take to get there if you need to leave your home.
- Make sure that everyone in your family knows what the warning sirens in your area sound like — and what to do if they go off.
What’s next?
When a Spring or Summer Storm Strikes
6/30/2020 (Permalink)
Our Tips will help reduce the impact floods have on you and your property.
Spring and Summer showers may often lead to flooding conditions in the Dale City, Lake Ridge, Woodbridge, and Lorton areas of Virginia. The following tips will help reduce the impact floods have on you and your property.
Advance Preparation
Prepare in advance with a SERVPRO® Emergency Ready Profile® (ERP). Our convenient mobile app contains all your utility and emergency response information in one place, at the tip of your fingers. You can access this information from either your smartphone or computer.
Watch for Pooling Water
Look for areas around your property where water pools, and channel it away from buildings. Make certain gutters and downspouts are clear of debris and they are directing water as intended.
Maintain Sump Pump
If you have a sump pump, check to be sure it is operational before water starts rising. Consider using a back-up generator to ensure your pump works when you need it most. Contact your insurance agent to add coverage in case you have a sump pump failure.
Consider Flood Insurance
Homeowners insurance will not cover floods; you must purchase a separate policy for flood protection. When all else fails, flood insurance will provide you the means to respond to a catastrophic flooding event.
Cut Power if Necessary
As rising water approaches the level of electrical outlets, you risk having a live current flow through all the water. Cut the power if you can safely do so without standing in water. Otherwise, evacuate and contact an electrician to cut the power before you go back in for recovery.
Raise Storage Goods
Use shelving and/or pallets to keep storage items off the floor to reduce the impact of small floods. In many situations, raising boxes just a few inches will be enough to keep storage goods above the water line.
Keep Storm Drains Clear
If you see water pooling around a storm drain, the drain may be clogged with debris. Clearing the debris will help keep the water flowing away from your neighborhood.
Be Aware on the Road
Be careful when driving during storms, especially when you hear flash flood warnings. Never drive into a fully submerged roadway. The water surface will be at the same level as the pavement you can see. This view can deceive you into thinking the water is shallow because you cannot see how the road dips under the surface.
Act Fast
When a flood happens, you need to act as quickly as possible to dry out any wet items, particularly structural materials like walls and flooring. Call our team at SERVPRO of Dale City/Lake Ridge and SERVPRO of Woodbridge/Lortonto begin the water mitigation process. Our franchise professionals are always here to help and have the training and experience to make flood damage “Like it never even happened.”
Faster For Storm Disasters
6/9/2020 (Permalink)
We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.
With our communities in the Dale City, Lake Ridge, Woodbridge and Lorton areas in mind, our team at SERVPRO of Dale City/Lake Ridge and SERVPRO of Woodbridge/Lorton provides emergency services for fire & water – cleanup and restoration and is dedicated to being faster to any-size disaster in your area. We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.
The extreme northern Virginia weather conditions can cause an unexpected amount of storm damage. If you have damage caused by a storm and are caught in an emergency, please give us a call. Our team of certified technicians is here to help, 24/7.
We always respond to your call within 1 hour, arrive onsite to begin the remediation process within 4 hours, and are able to provide an update and scope of the necessary work to be done no later than 8 hours from the time of your initial call. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem may become, and speed is of the utmost importance in preventing further or secondary damage.
More reasons to choose SERVPRO:
- 24-Hour Emergency Service
- Faster to Any-Sized Disaster
- Highly Trained Restoration Technicians
- A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry
- Locally Owned and Operated
- Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment
When you need us, we are just a phone call away at 703-583-8484.
Why September is the Peak Month for Hurricanes and Tropical Storms
9/9/2019 (Permalink)
September 10th is historical the most active day for hurricanes!
The Atlantic Hurricane and Tropical Storm season runs from June 1 through November 30. Nearly all tropical storm activity in the Atlantic basin occurs during those dates with it peaking between August and October. Statistically, September 10 is the most likely day to find a tropical cyclone somewhere in the Atlantic.
You may ask why. It’s because of both the wind and water.
WIND SHEAR
Wind shear may prevent storms from organizing into a tropical cyclone. Wind shear is the variation of the wind's speed or direction over a short distance within the atmosphere. Stronger wind shear in the spring fades through June and July, and by late August, wind shear reaches a minimum.
ENVIRONMENT
The changes in climate create wetter and bigger storms.
Also to note is the temperature of the ocean. As summer passes, the water temperature in the deep tropics rises which is the result of sunny days, warmer air temperatures, and more moisture in the atmosphere. Warmer ocean temperatures drive greater storm activity.
With the lack of wind shear in the atmosphere combined with the warmth of tropical waters, it may cause the waves off of Africa to strengthen into a hurricane.
The number of tropical storm and hurricane days for the Atlantic Basin spikes in mid-September.
Difference of Various Regions
The patterns vary in different areas of Earth. For example, in the Northwest Pacific basin tropical cyclones occur regularly, throughout the year. Therefore, there is no "typhoon season" there, though there is a lull in February and March and a peak in August and September. In the North Indian basin, typhoons peak in both May and November.
In late October and November, the number of hurricanes and tropical storms drops steeply in late October and November. As fall temperatures arrive, wind shear increases in the Atlantic basin. The air and the water both cool down, resulting in fewer areas where the storms can form.
Preparing for the storm
7/22/2019 (Permalink)
Supplies Recommended for Storm Preparation
Because of the possible lack of clean water and power outages following a storm, you may need supplies to keep your family safe and happy following a disaster. Storms may also cause limited access to your vehicles, roadways and stores.
Be prepared and stock up on everything you might need NOW before the storm arrives. Be certain to:
- Prepare an emergency water supply
- Prepare an emergency food and medicine supply
- Gather safety items
- Gather personal items
Prepare an emergency water supply
- Have at least 5 gallons of water per person (which should be enough to last 3 to 5 days)
- Gather clean containers for water.
- Get supplies to make your drinking water safe (like iodine tablets or chlorine bleach).
- Learn how to safely store your water supply.
- Learn how to make your drinking water safe for use.
Prepare an emergency food and medicine supply
- Gather a 3 to 5 day supply of food that won’t spoil such as canned foods.
- If needed, stock up on baby food or formula.
- Gather any prescription medicines.
Gather safety items, including:
- First aid kit and instructions
- Fire extinguisher
- Battery-powered radio and flashlight with extra batteries
- Sleeping bags, pillows and extra blankets
Gather personal care products, including:
- Hand sanitizer and soap
- Wet cleaning cloths (like baby wipes) in case you don’t have clean water
- Toothpaste
- Tampons and pads
- Diapers
Tip: Store all of these items together in a place that’s easy to locate.
Storm Damage?
7/17/2019 (Permalink)
Storms can develop quickly and cause major damage.
Flood Safety in NOVA
Flooding doesn’t always happen in Northern Virginia but did you know that 20% of all claims paid by the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) were for policies in low-risk areas? In fact, flooding is one of the most commonly widespread weather-related disasters. According to the American Red Cross, floods cause more damage in our country every year than any other weather-related disaster.
The American Red Cross offers the following safety tips:
Avoid floodwaters
A mere six inches of swiftly moving water can sweep you off your feet. If you approach a flowing stream of water that is above your ankles, stop, turn around, and go another way.
Driving in flooded areas
If you encounter a flooded road, turn around and go another way. Most cars can be swept away by less than two feet of moving water. If you are stranded on a flooded roadway and the water is rising rapidly, get out of the car immediately and seek higher ground.
Keep children out of the water
Children are naturally curious but often lack judgment about the dangers of running water caused by flooding or the contaminants it may contain.
Our goal at SERVPRO of Dale City/Lake Ridge and SERVPRO of Woodbridge/Lorton is to help you be prepared and ready. We know that even minor floods have the potential to cause major damage to a structure when not treated quickly and properly. Although the cleanup is often an overwhelming task, our team is prepared to handle any size disaster. We’re always here to help.
What to do after the storm
7/17/2019 (Permalink)
Storm Damage Tips
Storms may cause a tremendous amount of loss to your home or business. These damages can range from collapsed roofs to standing water throughout the structure including precious valuables and important documents. Through extensive training and 15 years of experience in the restoration industry, our team understands the substantial amount of stress brought on by these disasters. Our goal is to always ensure the safety of our customers and provide immediate restoration services to our community.
Following storm damage, these are the tips we have to offer:
- Assure your home or business is safe to inhabit. In addition to damages like collapsed roofs and standing water, it's vital to keep an eye out for sharp broken objects around the structure as well.
- If your property is safe to stay in, photograph all damages. This will ensure your insurance will fully compensate you for all damages to your valuables and structure of your property.
- Contact your insurance agent or carrier so that you may be assigned an adjuster to assess and scope the structure and its contents to determine the amount of damage to the property.
Contact SERVPRO immediately to begin the mitigation and restoration process. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including holidays.. Our trained and insurance approved teams will take the proper steps and care to properly dry your structure and its contents, restoring it back to preloss condition.
We’re always here to help.
Do you have a Disaster Plan?
6/26/2019 (Permalink)
Emergency kit items
With Hurricane season upon us and some major Hurricanes hitting so close to our area last year, we wanted to take a moment to make certain our friends are prepared for a natural disaster. The regular occurrence of natural disasters demonstrates the importance of being prepared for any emergency or disaster. While each situation is unique, your family can be better prepared if you plan carefully, put emergency procedures in place, and practice for all kinds of emergencies.
The following are measures you and your family can take to start getting ready. A commitment to begin planning today will help support your family, home, and the community.
Review the following questions to learn if your family and home is prepared. Be Informed.
Do you know what kind of emergencies might affect your home or daily life?
Do you know what you and your family will do in an emergency situation?
Prepare Your Emergency Plan
Do you have an evacuation and shelter-in-place plan?
Do you have a plan to communicate with your family before, during, and after an incident?
Do you have an emergency supply kit?
Practice the Emergency Plan
Have you practiced your plan recently?
Does your family know where to go in the event of a natural disaster?
Have you reviewed your plans in the last 12 months?
Review Insurance Coverage
Have you reviewed your insurance coverage recently to see if you’re covered in a disaster? Secure Your Home
Have you conducted a room-by-room walk-through to determine what safety measures can be taken?
Improve Cyber Security
Have you installed a firewall on your computer?
Do you regularly update your antivirus software?
If you answered “No” to any of these questions, visit ready.gov and learn how to better prepare your family and home for an emergency or natural disaster.
One Final Word of Advice…
Create an Emergency Supply Kit. Why take the risk?
Your emergency supply kit may be different depending on what disasters you are likely to encounter, but according to ready.gov, a basic emergency kit should contain:
- Water (one gallon of water per person per day)
- Food (non-perishable 3-day supply)
- Battery-operated radio, preferably a NOAA Weather Radio
- Flashlight
- First aid kit
- Whistle to signal for help
- Dust mask
- Hygiene items
- Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
- Manual can opener
- Local maps
- Cell phone with chargers
- Cash
- Important documents
- Fire extinguisher
- Matches
We hope this information has been helpful to you and your families. Your safety is our number one priority!
Thunderstorm Safety
6/25/2019 (Permalink)
Always be prepared!
It is that time of year and our area has already seen some severe thunderstorms.
Did you know Severe Thunderstorms are officially defined as storms that are capable of producing hail that is an inch or larger or wind gusts over 58 mph?
These storms can produce possible damages such as:
- Hail this size can damage property such as plants, roofs, siding and vehicles.
- Wind this strong is able to break off large branches, knock over trees or cause structural damage to trees.
- Strong wind and rain can bring rain into your home through siding or hydro-static pressure.
Some severe thunderstorms can produce hail larger than softballs or winds over 100 mph, so please pay attention to the weather so you know when severe storms are possible and you have a safety plan in place for you and your family in case of an emergency.
Thunderstorms also produce tornadoes and dangerous lightning; heavy rain can cause flash flooding.
For more weather related information you can visit the National Weather Service to get more information on thunderstorm safety, tornado safety, lightning safety and flood safety
As always, should your home or business suffer damage from any of these weather events our Professional Team is always here to help. Call us 24/7/365 at 703-583-8484
TRACKING HURRICANE FLORENCE
9/10/2018 (Permalink)
Please be sure you are starting to make preparations to keep your family, home and vehicles safe!
Tips:
If you have a sump pump, make sure you have a battery back up for it, or even a spare at the ready. Also, if you have a sump pump make sure you have coverage for it failing and what the limit of coverage is if you have a limit so that you know how to properly prepare.
Check your gutters and clean if needed! With this much rain and already saturated ground you don't want water coming in through the foundation as that is NOT a covered claim.
If you have an in ground stairwell, make sure your drains are cleared.
Clear all window wells of debris. And check the drains and window wells throughout the storm that they do not get clogged with debris.
Secure or bring everything inside that could become flying debris.
Trim any limbs that are overhanging.
In case you lose electricity be sure to have non-perishables on hand to last your family 3 days. Fill your tubs with water for those on wells so that you can flush the commode. Check your propane tanks on your grill to give you an option to make meals prior to the arrival of the storm. Finally should you lose power and use a generator use it safely!!
Hurricane Hazards
7/20/2018 (Permalink)
Hurricane season has already begun and several named storms have developed in the Atlantic, Caribbean or Gulf of Mexico. For the Atlantic, the season begins June 1 and runs through November 30. On average, there are 12 tropical storms that develop, with an average of six becoming hurricanes, according to the National Weather Service.
Hurricanes can be life-threatening as well as cause serious property damage. The National Weather Service lists the following as potential “hurricane hazards.”
- Storm surge is the abnormal rise of water generated by a storm’s winds. This hazard is historically the leading cause of hurricane related deaths in the United States. Storm surge and large battering waves can result in large loss of life and cause massive destruction along the coast. Storm surge can travel several miles inland, especially along bays, rivers and estuaries.
- Flooding from heavy rains is the second leading cause of fatalities from land falling tropical cyclones. Widespread torrential rains associated with these storms often because flooding hundreds of miles inland. This flooding can persist for several days after a storm has dissipated.
- Winds from a hurricane can destroy buildings and manufactured homes. Signs, roofing material and other items left outside can become flying missiles during hurricanes.
- Tornadoes can accompany land falling tropical cyclones. These tornadoes typically occur in rain bands well away from the center of the storm.
- Dangerous waves produced by a tropical cyclone’s strong winds can pose a significant hazard to coastal residents and mariners. These waves can cause deadly rip currents, significant beach erosion and damage to structures along the coastline, even when the storm is more than a 1,000 miles offshore.
Preparation is the best protection against the dangers of a hurricane. Plan an evacuation route and your emergency plan, take inventory of your property and take steps to protect your home or business.
How to Prepare for Hurricane Season
7/18/2018 (Permalink)
Hurricanes are massive storm systems that form over ocean water and often move toward land. Threats from hurricanes include high winds, heavy rainfall, storm surge, coastal and inland flooding, rip currents, and tornadoes. The heavy winds of hurricanes can cause damage or destroy homes, buildings, and roads, as well as cause power, water, and gas outages. These effects can injure or kill people, disrupt transportation, and pollute drinking water. Hurricanes cause deaths and injuries primarily from drowning, wind, and wind-borne debris. The impact from hurricanes can extend from the coast to several hundred miles inland. To find your risk, visit FEMA’s “Know Your Risk Map.” Be better prepared for this hurricane season, and learn more at ready.gov/prepare.
- Stayed informed
- Plan for evacuation
- Take action to protect your property from against wind and water damage
For more information check out www.fema.gov
Storm Safety Kit...Is yours ready?
7/18/2018 (Permalink)
Make sure your to-go kit is ready!
This summer has already brought numerous amounts of severe weather and there'll likely be more to come as we are in the midst of Thunderstorm and Hurricane Season. So it's time to get packing, or updating, your to-go kit.
Below is a basic kit that last three days, but you should tailor yours to your family's needs, especially if you have small children.
- One gallon of water per person per day, for drinking and sanitation
- Non-perishable food and a manual can opener
- A battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA weather radio with tone alert and extra batteries
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- First aid kit
- Whistle to signal for help
- Filter mask or cotton t-shirt, to help filter the air
- Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation
- Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
- Plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place
- Important family documents in a waterproof container
- Items for unique family needs, such as daily prescription medications, infant formula or diapers
We want everyone to stay safe during this Hurricane Season!!
Severe Weather Safety
6/27/2018 (Permalink)
Be Prepared for Thunderstorms, Flooding, Tornado's & Hurricanes
Severe weather can happen anytime, anywhere. Each year, Americans cope with an average of the following intense storms*:
- 10,000 severe thunderstorms
- 5,000 floods or flash floods
- 1,300 tornadoes
- 2 land falling deadly hurricanes
Approximately 98 percent of all presidentially declared disasters are weather related, leading to around 650 deaths per year and nearly $15 billion in damage.* Knowing your risk of severe weather, taking action, and being an example are just a few steps you can take to be better prepared to save your life and assist in saving the lives of others.
Know Your Risk. The first step to becoming weather-ready is to understand the type of hazardous weather that can affect where you live and work, and how the weather could impact you, your business, and your family. Check the weather forecast regularly, obtain a NOAA Weather Radio, and learn about Wireless Emergency Alerts. Severe weather comes in many forms, and your shelter plan should include all types of local hazards.
Take Action. Take the next step in severe weather preparedness by creating a communications plan for your home and business. Put together or purchase an emergency kit. Keep important papers and valuables in a safe place.
Be an Example. Once you have taken action to prepare for severe weather, share your story with co-workers and family and friends on Facebook or Twitter. Your preparedness story will inspire others to do the same.
*Facts and figures provided by noaa.gov
CALL THE CLEANUP TEAM THAT IS FASTER TO ANY SIZE DISASTER
6/24/2018 (Permalink)
We are always ready to help, call 703-583-8484
Floods are one of the most common and widespread natural disasters in the United States. Whether your home or business is near a coastline, along city streets, in the mountains, near a river, or even in the desert—there is always potential for flood damage. Fema.gov reports in the last 5 years, all 50 states have experienced floods or flash floods. Just because you haven’t experienced a flood in the past does not mean you won’t in the future. In fact, nearly 20% of all flood insurance claims come from moderate-to-low risk areas, and even just one inch of flood damage in an average home can cost you up to $27,000.*
According to the American Red Cross, floods cause more damage in the U.S. every year than any other weather related disaster. The American Red Cross offers the following flood safety tips.
- Stay away from floodwaters. If you come up on a flowing stream where water is above your ankles, stop, turn around, and go another way. Six inches of swiftly moving water can sweep you off of your feet.
- If you approach a flooded road while driving, turn around and go another way. If you are caught on a flooded road and waters are rising rapidly around you, get out of the car quickly and move to higher ground. Most cars can be swept away by less than two feet of moving water.
- Keep children out of the water. They are curious and often lack judgment about running water or contaminated water.
If a flood does strike your home or business, contact your local SERVPRO® Dale City/Lake Ridge Professionals. Even minor floods have the potential to cause major damage to a structure when not treated quickly and properly, and the cleanup is often an overwhelming task. The SERVPRO® System is prepared to handle any sized disaster. When fire and water take control of your life, your local SERVPRO® Dale City/Lake Ridge Professionals will help you take it back.
*Facts and figures provided by fema.gov
Are you disaster ready?
6/22/2018 (Permalink)
Be ready in case this happens in your town!
In recent years many forms of disasters have affected the United States. Flooding, tornadoes, hurricanes, wildfires and blizzards are natural disasters that can threaten your home, business and community.
Please look over the below Emergency Supply Kit and make sure your home or business is prepared for a natural disaster. For more information on disaster preparedness visit www.ready.gov or call one of our amazing marketing representative help you develop an Emergency Response Profile. The Profile is designed to be a quick and easy snapshot of your business providing critical facility information needed for detailed emergency preparation.
Emergency Supply Kit Essentials:
· Water, one gallon per person per day
· Food, non-perishable 3-day supply
· Manual can opener
· Battery operated radio, preferably an NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries
· Flashlight and extra batteries
· First aid kit
· Whistle to signal for help
· Clothing
· Dust masks or bandanas
· Plastic sheeting, garbage bags and duct tape
· Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities, if necessary
Please contact SERVPRO Dale City/Lake Ridge at 703-583-8484 if you need any assistance in developing YOUR Emergency Ready Profile.
YOU CAN BE RUINED, OR YOU CAN BE READY with the Help of Technology
2/12/2018 (Permalink)
Be Ready with a SERVPRO ERP!
Technology can now be a vital tool in preparing for emergencies or disasters, as well as during or after to stay informed of the situation and in communication with others. From common technology you already use on a day-to-day basis to taking a few extra steps to prepare, the following will help you be ready in the event of an emergency or disaster.
Store Information Online:
There are many places to store important information securely online. Services like Google Drive and Dropbox offer free way to store different types of files, from a Word document to images of important documents. Ready.gov suggests saving an electronic version of insurance policies, identification documents, medical records, and information on your pets, if necessary.
Follow the News:
Stay informed by following agencies such as FEMA, local news channels, and local government on Twitter for the most up-to-date information in a disaster situation. You can also alert first responders if a rescue is needed through Twitter.
Mark Yourself Safe:
The American Red Cross offers a Safe & Well check-in site to list yourself as safe or find family and friends in situations where communication is difficult to establish. Facebook also has a feature called Safety Check that is activated after natural disasters or a crisis. You will receive a notification from Facebook if you’re located in the affected area at that time.
Get in Touch:
Make sure your contact information is up-to-date in your phone and e-mail for communication with family, friends, business contacts, and others whom you may need to get in contact with before, during, or after a disaster.
Charge Up:
Keep a portable charger in your car and home in case of an emergency. You may need to recharge this from time to time, but you can also buy solar-powered chargers as well.
Get an Emergency READY Profile®
SERVPRO® Dale City/Lake Ridge is proud to offer Emergency READY Profiles® (ERP) for free by calling one of our amazing Sales Reps at 703-583-8484 to help prepare your property, or your business for an emergency.
By developing a SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile® for your property or business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your property or business.
Put help in the palm of your hand with the Ready Plan App. Get in touch with your local SERVPRO® Dale City/Lake Ridge Professional today for more information on developing an ERP for your property or business, and SERVPRO® Dale City/Lake Ridge will be there to help make it “Like it never even happened.”
When Storms of Flood Hit Dale City, SERVPRO is ready!
7/18/2017 (Permalink)
Our highly trained crews are ready to respond 24/7 to storm or flood damage in Dale City/Lake Ridge.
SERVPRO of Dale City/Lake Ridge specializes in storm and flood damage restoration. Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.
Faster Response
Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.
Resources to Handle Floods and Storms
When storms hit the Dale City/Lake Ridge area, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.
Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 703-583-8484
STORM Ready
7/17/2017 (Permalink)
When it comes to fire & water damage, or specialty cleanup needs, it’s the SERVPRO brand that comes to mind. Our TEAMS work endlessly to make sure our customers are happy, and have one objective in the aftermath of disaster, to make their loss Like it never even happened.
No matter the job or the size, our SERVPRO teams are ready to handle any size loss. With 1,700+ franchises nationwide, we have access to numerous highly trained personnel and thousands of pieces of equipment. Our SERVPRO Disaster Recovery teams are strategically placed throughout the country to respond when needed. Our Teams have a proven track record for success, assisting with cleanup of floods, tornadoes, wildfires, and damage caused from frigid temperatures.
Whether it’s a major storm event, or faulty appliance, we will be there with one call to 703-583-8484
Storm Damage can happen anywhere!
6/28/2017 (Permalink)
Call 703-583-8484, so we can help!
According to the National Weather Service (NOAA), “Approximately seventy-five percent of all Presidential disaster declarations are associated with flooding.” NOAA lists the most common flood hazards in the United States as:
- Flash Flooding
- River Flooding
- Storm Surge and Coastal Inundation from Tropical and Non-Tropical Systems
- Burn Scars/Debris Flows (Caused by Wildfires)
- Ice/Debris Jams
- Snowmelt
- Dry Wash (Caused by heavy rainfall in dry areas)
- Dam Breaks/Levee Failure
Just because you haven’t experienced a flood doesn’t mean you won’t in the future. In fact, 20% of all claims paid by the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) were for policies in low-risk communities. On average, floods cost $3.5 billion in annual losses in the U.S., and commercial flood claims average more than $75,000 (NFIP).
When catastrophic water damage happens to you, SERVPRO® Dale City/Lake Ridge Professionals can help. They can help you prepare ahead of time with an Emergency Ready Profile® (ERP), or respond to any size disaster to begin cleanup and restoration to get you back in business as soon as possible.
Your local SERVPRO® Dale City/Lake Ridge Professionals are ready to help make it “Like it never even happened.”
Extreme Heat Dangers!
6/26/2017 (Permalink)
Be Cautious!
As summer approaches, it is time to consider safety precautions for extreme heat in the coming months. Heat affects all people, but especially the young, elderly, sick, and overweight. Urban area residents also have a greater chance of being affected than those who live in rural areas due to the heat island effect.
According to the EPA, “the sun can heat dry, exposed urban surfaces, such as roofs and pavement, to temperatures 50–90°F hotter than the air, while shaded or moist surfaces—often in more rural surroundings—remain close to air temperatures.” These surface heat islands are strongest during the day when the sun is shining, while the atmospheric heat islands are more likely after sunset “due to the slow release of heat from urban infrastructure.”
Whether you are in an urban or rural area, there are several things you can do to prepare for and prevent extreme heat from affecting you. If possible, stay indoors in air conditioning. Be sure to check on your pets who may be outdoors or bring them inside. Stay hydrated and limit alcohol and caffeine intake.
If you must go outside, wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothing, and be sure to apply sunscreen often. Pay attention to signs of heat exhaustion, which are heavy sweating; weakness; cold, pale, and clammy skin; nausea or vomiting; and fainting, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Heat exhaustion can lead to heat stroke, which is life-threatening. Signs of heat stroke are a high body temperature (103°+), rapid and strong pulse, and possible unconsciousness. If you think someone has heat stroke, call 911 immediately and move the person somewhere cool. Reduce body temperature with cool, wet clothes or a bath. Do not give a person with heat stroke fluids, and treat the situation as a serious medical emergency (CDC).
If you live in a humid climate, be aware of the heat index. The heat index factors in the humidity, which can make the temperature feel 15° hotter.
Extreme heat is a serious danger. For more information on preparation and prevention, visit ready.gov or cdc.gov.
Disaster can happen at anytime!
6/22/2017 (Permalink)
Ready when you need us!
When a storm or disaster strikes, SERVPRO’s Disaster Recovery Team is poised and “Ready for Whatever Happens.” With a network of more than 1,700 Franchises, the SERVPRO System strives to be faster to any size disaster. Strategically located throughout the United States, SERVPRO’s Disaster Recovery Team, is trained and equipped to handle the largest storms and highest floor waters. Providing experience, manpower, equipment and other resources, the Disaster Recovery Team assists your local SERVPRO Woodbridge/Lorton Professionals. SERVPRO’s Disaster Recover Team has responded to hundreds of disaster, there is only one objective, to help you make it “Like it never even happened.”
2016 Houston, TX Flooding: In April, a nearly stationary mesoscale convective system developed over Houston resulting in widespread rainfall rates of 2-4 inches per hour. This was a historic flooding even for Harris County which saw a total of nearly 18 inches of accumulated rainfall. The Storm Team dispatched 81 crews to over 360 jobs mitigating over $3 million in damages.
2015 Siberian Express: Record sub-zero temperatures caused major problems for a large portion of the country stretching from Florida to Maine. The Midwest also experienced record breaking low temperatures resulting in frozen pipes and ice dams causing major problems for residents. The Storm Team dispatched a total of 257 crews for 108 Franchises to assist local SERVPRO Franchises completing nearly 2000 jobs.
2014 Mid-Atlantic Flooding: Rainfall rates up to 2 inches per hour caused major flash flooding stretching from Northeast Ohio all the way up to Portland, Maine. Eastern Michigan and Baltimore, Maryland were also impacted creating over 1,381 jobs for the Storm team to product. A total of 82 SERVPRO Franchises and 173 crews mitigated over $4.3 million in damages while assisting the local Franchises.
2014 Polar Vortex: Record low temperatures caused by a break in the North Pole’s polar vortex resulted in an unprecedented freezing event, spanning from east of the Rocky Mountains to as far south as Central Florida, effecting all or part of 39 states and 70% of the SERVPRO Franchise System.
2013 Colorado Floods: Heavy rainfall, with amounts up to 17 inches in some areas, resulted in widespread flooding in Fort Collins, Boulder and surrounding Colorado mountain communities. The Disaster Recovery Team responded with 109 crews from 48 Franchises to assist the local SERVPRO Franchises in the emergency response.
2012 Hurricane Sandy: Affecting the more than 20 states, Sandy left widespread damage and flooding from Florida stretching the entire eastern seaboard to Maine. The Disaster Recovery Team placed nearly 1000 crews in affected areas, representing over 300 SERVPRO Franchises from across the country. Teams traveled from as far as Arizona, California, Oregon and Washington.
Hurricane Season
6/22/2017 (Permalink)
Some stats:
The peak time of the year for hurricanes here in the Atlantic region is June-November. On the Pacific the peak time of year is May- November.
The cost of hurricane damage is usually a couple million per storm. Hurricane Sandy though caused nearly $62 billion in damages once it hit the USA. $128 billion in damages was caused by Hurricane Katrina.
Some tips:
- Stay away from low-lying and flood prone areas.
- Always stay indoors during a hurricane, because strong winds will blow things around.
- Leave mobile homes and to go to a shelter.
- If your home isn't on higher ground, go to a shelter.
- If emergency managers say to evacuate, then do so immediately.
Hurricane Season is Here!
6/22/2017 (Permalink)
Some stats:
The peak time of the year for hurricanes here in the Atlantic region is June-November. On the Pacific the peak time of year is May- November.
The cost of hurricane damage is usually a couple million per storm. Hurricane Sandy though caused nearly $62 billion in damages once it hit the USA. $128 billion in damages was caused by Hurricane Katrina.
Some tips:
- Stay away from low-lying and flood prone areas.
- Always stay indoors during a hurricane, because strong winds will blow things around.
- Leave mobile homes and to go to a shelter.
- If your home isn't on higher ground, go to a shelter.
- If emergency managers say to evacuate, then do so immediately.
Are you disaster ready?
7/28/2016 (Permalink)
Be Prepared in case this happens to you!
In recent years many forms of disasters have affected the United States. Flooding, tornados, hurricanes, wildfires and blizzards are natural disasters that can threaten your home, business and community.
Please look over the below Emergency Supply Kit and make sure your home or business is prepared for a natural disaster. For more information on disaster preparedness visit www.ready.gov or call one of our amazing marketing representative help you develop an Emergency Response Profile. The Profile is designed to be a quick and easy snapshot of your business providing critical facility information needed for detailed emergency preparation.
Emergency Supply Kit Essentials:
· Water, one gallon per person per day
· Food, non-perishable 3-day supply
· Manual can opener
· Battery operated radio, preferably an NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries
· Flashlight and extra batteries
· First aid kit
· Whistle to signal for help
· Clothing
· Dust masks or bandanas
· Plastic sheeting, garbage bags and duct tape
· Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities, if necessary
Please contact SERVPRO Dale City/Lake Ridge at 703-583-8484 if you need any assistance in developing YOUR Emergency Ready Profile.
Faster to Any Size Disaster!
7/7/2016 (Permalink)
Too much soap!? We can help!
There’s no such thing as a small disaster – especially when the water you don’t see contains bacteria or can cause mold, rot, and other unseen damage. Water damage can affect the value of your property. Before you get out the mop bucket and try to clean it yourself, consider how the damage can affect your property.
SERVPRO Dale City/Lake Ridge knows how disruptive water damage can be for your business. We are trained and equipped to manage the drying process. By utilizing the proper equipment and moisture measuring devices, your building will be quickly and thoroughly dried to industry standards, which will help prevent secondary water damages. With rapid response time and full line of water cleanup and restoration services, SERVPRO Dale City/Lake Ridge can help you regain control quickly, ensuring your facility and its contents are property dried, deodorized and protected.
Before you risk further damaging the value of your facility by attempting to clean up the mess yourself, call our office at 703-583-8484.
24/7 Emergency Service
