7 Emergency Preparedness Tips for Your Pets

7/20/2022 (Permalink)

National Preparedness Month; Preparing for your Pets

September is National Preparedness month. Since 2004, this month has been a time to remind Americans of the importance of preparing for natural disasters, large scale catastrophes and other unexpected events. The event is sponsored by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and was a response to a recognized need for individual responsibility and action in the case of unforeseen emergencies. The agency shares best practices for individuals, families and businesses in advance of possible disasters. These include how to build an emergency preparedness kit, awareness of nearby emergency shelters and how to prepare youth for emergency situations.

Particularly pertinent, and often overlooked, are emergency preparedness tips for one’s pets. As a general rule FEMA advises that “what’s good for you is good for your pets.” Emergency preparedness for pets includes ensuring that an emergency kit is prepared for the pet, that pet evacuation measures are planned in advance and that the pet is easily identifiable in case they are lost or injured. The agency also recommends compiling a list of facilities for the safe housing of pets that cannot be evacuated along with the family. The pet is ultimately the responsibility of its owner and must be included in family emergency planning as any other family member would be. Special considerations are made for large animals such as horses and livestock, as well as animals that have specific needs.

7 Emergency Preparedness Tips for Your Pets

1. As a general rule what’s good for you is good for your pets. Plan for your pet as you would any member of your family
2. Arrange for a neighbor or a trusted friend to check on your pet in the case that you are unable to do so yourself
3. Prepare an emergency kit for your pet that includes food, medications, a list of nearby pet hotels, and other essentials
4. Have your pet micro-chipped
5. Keep an up to date list of your patient’s medical records as a kennel or boarding facility will typically require this to make sure your pet’s vaccinations are up to date
6. Do not chain or restrain your pets outside during a natural disaster
7. Ensure that all animals have some form of identification

Your pets are like family, and you should prepare for them as such. If you follow some of these pet emergency preparedness tips, you will be well on your way! If a fire emergency does happen in your home, call us at 508-697-5439

What to Do After a Severe Storm Hits Your Property

7/20/2022 (Permalink)

What to Do After a Severe Storm Hits Your Property

In New England, the northeaster storms are a recurring event which leave behind a devastating damage. This includes property damage on both commercial and residential properties of residents in the Greater Bristol County Area. SERVPRO of Bridgewater, Sharon, with its disaster team, is always ready to help you out with any and all kinds of storm damage restoration. Our team of professional, skilled and competent crew is trained to handle your property proficiently and deliver the best and desired results to you. We understand that storm damage can become a cause for water, mold and even fire damage. Don’t worry, we offer all the services needed to recover under our company’s umbrella and we’re ready to restore your property so effectively that the damage will seem ‘like it never even happened’.

Here’s a list of useful tips for properly inspecting and restoring storm damage at your house or commercial premises:

Useful Tips on Inspection and Immediate Restoration  

First and foremost, keep in mind that if you have been evacuated don’t take the chance and stay at your property to handle protecting efforts on your own during the storm. Always wait for the official authorities’ clearance call before getting out of your safety area. Once you have the green signal, only then invest your time and effort in inspecting and making initial restoration. We advise that you call SERVPRO of Bridgewater, Sharon before taking any action. Our professionals will guide you through what needs to be done till they reach your property.

Here’s a list of things you can do:

• Carefully inspect the house/office all over. Visit every corner of the property. Note down the intensity of damage. You may also take pictures to use for insurance. But keep in mind that you should steer clear of any and all areas that seem unsafe in any aspect.

• Do not walk into rooms or spaces that may have exposed electrical wiring, especially if that area is flooded with water. Ensure that you’ve switched off the electricity from the main switch before walking into your property. Do not walk into dark areas without proper lighting.

• Do not touch, move or remove heavy items such as floored carpets, sofas, armchairs, furniture, appliances, etc. Most of these will pose a safety threat because of being extremely heavy due to water absorption. Do not touch any electrical appliances.

• Take pictures of damaged and affected areas from a safe distance. Do not walk into, under, onto, or over dangerous spaces such as stairs, attics, basements, balconies, etc. Any place that creaks noisily has to be avoided at all costs as it may cause physical damage to you.

• You may however bring out small items such as valuables, pieces of art, expensive decorative items, etc. into an open dry space and let the excess water evaporate under the sun. This will help in the water damage restoration process of our professional crew.

• For books, magazines, etc., it is better to let them stay where they are if they are inside shelves, cabinets, desks, etc. If you pull them out, it may distort and damage the books. However, ensure that you pull out valuable documents and keep them dry and safe.

• Do not try to work on the plumbing, heating, cooling, ventilation and electrical network within your home. What you’re about to do may seem like a small act in your favor, but it may become the cause of damaging your property on a large scale, not to mention the safety risks involved.

• Once you have taken care of everything that you can do, wait for our professional crew to show up. Let them do their job and with your coordination and cooperation, they will restore your property back to its former glory. We always deliver the best solutions and results to our clients.

• Storms can even cause fires which means that you will have to look into fire and smoke damage restoration Avoid using candles if possible. We advise that you stay away from open circuits, electrical wires, switches, plugs and the likes. It is never safe to handle such situations on your own.

• If the water from the storm is left to sink in, it will eventually lead to mold growth. Mold damage restoration by our experienced crew will ensure that all sources of excess water are repaired so as to lower the unwanted moisture content back to normal levels.

Always remember that professionals who have been effectively dealing with storm damage of all shapes and sizes for years will definitely know how to handle it more efficiently than inexperienced and unskilled crew. So always invest your money and time in leading companies that have years of experience, such as SERVPRO of Bridgewater, Sharon.

For further queries, call us at (508) 697-5439.

When storms or floods hit the Bridgewater/Sharon area, SERVPRO is ready!

6/6/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bridgewater/Sharon 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 a storm hits, 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 (508) 697-5439

Ice Dams Explained

3/1/2022 (Permalink)

Explaining Ice Dams

In much of the country, winter weather comes with myriad hazards. Ice is usually the most dangerous of these seasonal threats. That’s when ice dams can come in to play.

An ice dam is a ridge of ice that forms along the edge of a roof and prevents melting snow from draining off. The heat inside the home then melts a large amount of snow turning it to water, but that water cannot drain off the roof because at the very edge of the roof is hardened snow and ice  (which cannot be reached by the heat inside). This results in the pooling of water, which then seeps into the roof and walls causing interior water damage.

The pooled water can also promote the growth of mildew and mold since it is usually the attic that gets the moisture from the ice dams, and attics are often perfect breeding grounds for mold. The best way to deal with ice dams is to prevent them from happening. You can do this by ensuring proper insulation. This will allow less heat to escape into an attic and prevent melting the snow on the roof. Otherwise, the best short-term action that can be taken is simply removing snow that accumulates on the roof, especially at the edges- but do so carefully.

If your home falls victim to an ice dam and there’s water damage involved- call SERVPRO of Bridgewater/Sharon. Our trained technicians have the experience and expertise to return your home back to its pre-water damaged condition.

Flood Damage after a storm

3/1/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bridgewater/Sharon Arrives Fast to Your Home to Begin Flood Damage Mitigation and Cleanup Efforts

Nobody Handles Flood Damage Quite Like the Technicians at SERVPRO – Call us When You Need Rapid Cleanup and Restoration Assistance

If not addressed quickly, flooding at your home will lead to costly, extensive repairs. Rather than the clean water that comes from a broken pipe in your home or a faulty appliance, flooding brings with it contaminated water. Instead of tackling this with DIY methods, you need skilled IICRC-certified technicians like we have on-staff here at SERVPRO. We understand best practices for dealing with significant contamination to keep bacteria from spreading to unaffected areas of your home.

When you call us for help with flood damage after a storm, we have a series of actions that we follow:

• Our team extracts water while removing all bulk debris using pumps and heavy-duty extraction tools.
• We work to return the relative humidity in your home to normal levels by way of industrial-grade dehumidifiers.
• Air filtration devices are put into play, which removes contaminants and other particulates from the air.
• Any remaining debris, unsalvageable materials, and other damaged contents get removed using controlled demolition to set the stage for full restoration. 

When you need flood damage assistance after a significant storm, you can trust our crew at SERVPRO of Bridgewater/Sharon to get the job done right the first time. We are available 24/7 by calling 508-697-5439 for emergency restoration services. We are Faster to Any Size Disaster!

Types of Storms

2/28/2022 (Permalink)

Hurricanes, Blizzards, Nor’easters and Microbursts

Although most people experience a range of storms during the winter season, most remain unclear on the differences between hurricanes, blizzards, nor’easters, and microbursts. First, let’s examine hurricanes, also called tropical cyclones. They form over large bodies of water, and involve rising hot air (from the ocean), and sinking cool air (from higher up in the atmosphere). Hurricanes affect large areas and feature strong winds, thunderstorms, and heavy rainfall. A blizzard, on the other hand, is a much more localized storm and features heavy snowfall accompanied by high winds. Blizzards do not last as long as hurricanes, and generally dissipate within a single day. Nor’easters are a specific type of blizzard, which develops along the New England and eastern Canada coasts.

A Nor’easter is much larger than a typical blizzard, and also features some hurricane-like traits, namely the formation of a low-pressure area off the coast, which pushes strong winds from the northeast, often causing havoc on the coast. Finally, microbursts are localized thunderstorms that are caused by a downward motion of air within a thunder cloud. They are short-lasting and can often be destructive. All of these types of storms can cause severe damage to both residential and commercial buildings, however, the ferocity and speed of winds are highest in the case of hurricanes (depending on intensity) and microbursts. On the other hand, nor’easters can be extremely damaging to the coastline, and heavy blizzards can often dump enough snow to collapse roofs and bring down trees.

When a storm strikes the Plymouth Area, and your home or business suffers storm damage- leave it to the professionals. Call SERVPRO of Bridgewater/Sharon at (508) 697-5439

Where Can Bridgewater Homeowners Go for Professional Flood Restoration?

7/6/2021 (Permalink)

Bridgewater Residents Can Call SERVPRO to Restore Their Flooded Homes

Is Professional Restoration Needed for Only a Small Amount of Floodwater?
The answer is always yes for calling SERVPRO. Bridgewater residential flooding always contains some amount of everything it flowed over before entering the home. The soil and other particulates can quickly stain floor trim, wall paneling, and more. Also, any water, if left standing for more than a few hours, can begin to ruin both personal and structural property.

Where Do You Start?
Our technicians begin by removing bulk water and flood damage in Bridgewater homes. This includes all standing floodwater and any trapped in carpets, behind walls, and between floorboards. After getting rid of the water, they remove all non-restorable items like carpets, soaked paper products, and then demolish and remove permanently affected structural property like drywall and other paneling if technicians find an excess of moisture.

Is It Necessary to Cut into Drywall or Other Material to Look for Moisture?
No. Technicians also use several moisture sensing devices to find water trapped in material or behind walls and ceilings.

    •    Penetrating Moisture Meters – These devices detect the moisture level in building materials with two small probes that pierce the surface to measure electrical conductivity. With special attachments, technicians can measure an item layer by layer.
    •    Inspection Cameras – These devices are excellent for checking wall cavities and examining the HVAC ductwork for moisture. Technicians use hand-held devices for small areas and larger ones, some mechanized, to fully examine the extensive ductwork in almost every home.

For more information on the tools we use to restore your home or to schedule a service visit, contact SERVPRO of The Bridgewaters at 508-697-5439 today. We are here to make the flood “Like it never even happened.”

We are trained professionals in storm restoration

6/9/2021 (Permalink)

Storms occur with little warning and can be especially devastating, so you’ll need the company that you can trust to rise to the occasion. Regardless of the type of storm, SERVPRO of The Bridgewaters can handle any size disaster. 

SERVPRO of The Bridgewaters is strategically positioned to be faster to any size emergency.

An immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Water is particularly invasive, quickly spreading throughout your property and being absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, etc. We arrive quickly and start the water extraction process almost immediately.

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. Emergency water restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays. You can expect an immediate response time, day or night.

In the event of a storm damage occurrence, please call us and we will be there with the help you need, 24/7/

508-697-5439

Storm Damage Cleanup and Restoration

6/1/2021 (Permalink)

Flooding and water damage from storms like the Nor’easters we experience here on the South Shore can affect not only the structure of your house but also your belongings. SERVPRO of The Bridgewaters has the resources and experience to respond as quickly as possible. We understand that the first 24-hours after a storm that causes widespread flooding and water damager are the most important to prevent secondary or even permanent damage. As members of this community, we are invested in helping to restore the homes and businesses that make this a great place to live. Our team is ready. We are here to help!

We're Faster to Any Size Disaster

Floods and storms don’t wait for normal business hours, and neither do we. You can depend on an immediate response from our highly trained technicians, who are available 24 hours, seven days a week.

We're Highly Trained Storm Damage Specialists

As a leader in storm and water damage restoration, SERVPRO of The Bridgewaters has the specialized training and expertise to restore your home back to its pre-storm condition. Our restoration process puts an emphasis on scientific drying techniques, progress monitoring and documentation.

• Water Damage Restoration Technician
• Applied Structural Drying Technicians

We Have the Resources to Handle Storms and Disasters. Call us today at 508-697-5439.

Restoration Services from an IICRC-Accredited Restoration Firm in Bridgewater

1/22/2021 (Permalink)

Flooding can quickly damage the exterior and interior of your home. Contact Team SERVPRO for water removal and remediation efforts.

SERVPRO Renders Disaster Mitigation Services for Bridgewater Homes

Bridgewater, Massachusetts is a Plymouth County city home to over 26,000 as of 2010, spread over an estimated 28 square miles. This Boston suburb boasts several local forests and conservation areas, including the infamous Hockomock Swamp. This swamp gave rise to rumors of cryptozoological phenomena, alien sightings, and other supernatural stories that have earned it the moniker “Bridgewater Triangle,” referring to the mysterious Bermuda Triangle.

Bridgewater was founded after a land purchase from local tribespeople by Duxbury settlers in 1645. In 1656, Bridgewater was established and has been part of Plymouth County since 1691, when the Commonwealth of Massachusetts was formed.

Notable names from Bridgewater include the following:

• New England Patriots quarterback Drew Bledsoe, who lived in the city during his tenure
• Mayflower passenger and Bridgewater founder Love Brewster
• First annual almanac publisher Nathaniel Ames
• Artist and sculptor Bruce Gray
• Author Louise Dickinson Rich, whose book Innocence Under the Elms details her youth in Bridgewater

The Bridgewater Iron Works

One of Bridgewater’s most iconic historical sites is the centuries-old Bridgewater Iron Works on High Street. This foundry was once one of the United States’ largest ironworks and is currently on the National Register of Historic Places as of 2002.

Its story starts in 1707 with David Perkins opening a blacksmithy on a parcel of land he purchased in 1694 from the Massachusetts colonial government. A slitting mill was added in 1985 by Nathan and Isaac Lazell. This was noteworthy because the British crown had banned the construction of new iron mills thirty-five years prior. This would only be the second new mill created after the American Revolution. After adding another mill, the property was processing an estimated 445 tons of iron each year. Mechanic Jacob Perkins would later become a partner at what would be known as Lazell, Perkins and Company.

During the nineteenth century, this company would specialize in a broad array of manufacturing needs, including:

• Cannons during the War of 1812
• Nails and hoops for barrels and casks
• Steam engines
• Iron castings and parts for ironclad naval ships
• Brass and copper tubes designed for use in steam boilers

Much of the property was damaged during a 1938 hurricane. At least two facilities were used between the mid-1940s and late 1980s for grey iron castings crafted by the Bridgewater Foundry Company before selling the property in 1994.

Today, the Iron Works has since been donated to the Town of Bridgewater by the foundry’s last owners, the Landner and Brousseau families. It has since been turned into Ironworks park, which sports a bridge, one of the remaining original buildings, and the local highway department.

The Massachusett People and Language

Before European settlers laid claim to the land, the Massachusett called the land “Wompanohkeit,” or “the eastern land,” which also had connotations of dawn and sunrise. The territory that is now covered by a large portion of the Greater Boston Area was referred to as “Nutohkemminnit,” which translates roughly to “place of our land.”

Today, Massachusett settlements include:

• Cocheset in West Bridgewater
• Saugatucket in East Bridgewater
• Titicut, which stretches over both Middleborough and Bridgewater

Current members of the Massachusett tribe descend from one of two communities: the Natick and the Ponkapoag. These two peoples were on land considered part of the Massachusetts Bay Colony, which had “Praying districts” for indigenous citizens converting to Christianity. Eliot’s translations and other texts translated based on his orthography are still used as sacred scriptures in Massachusett churches.

The Massachusett language is designated as part of the Southern New England Algonquian (SNEA) languages, which are close enough to be considered regional dialects with minor differences. The Massachusett language was speculated to have been spoken both in the Boston area, the North and South Shores of the Massachusetts Bay, the lower Merrimack River, the Pawtucket of southern Maine, and the New Hampshire coast, among other locales.

What makes the Massachusett language especially significant in American history is its translation and use by John Eliot, who learned the language from translators and interpreters in Natick. He created an English orthography that would be used in the first Bible printed in the Americas. Christian missions would continue to make Massachusett Bibles and educational materials from the mid-seventeenth century until the mid-eighteenth century, after which the language’s use dwindled significantly.

The last speaker of Massachusett is speculated to have passed on near the start of the nineteenth century. The Wampanoag dialect of SNEA persisted and is still in use today, thanks to local language reclamation projects.

What Does SERVPRO Flood Damage Sanitation Entail?

The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) accredited professionals at SERVPRO have extensive training and experience in flood damage mitigation for Bridgewater residences.

In a flood damage scenario, several different cleanup methods are employed to protect homeowners while restoring the property. These include:

• If mold or other microbes are present, SERVPRO technicians take precautions that include sanitation with EPA-registered biocides and containment measures that prevent the spread of these microbes to other areas of the home
• Manual pump or trigger sprayers are deployed in areas with standing water and debris, dispensing sanitation solutions at 50 psi
• Wet-cleaning of salvageable nonporous materials is effective for debris removal

Odor control is another essential component of sanitation, including the use of such devices as ultra-low volume (ULV) foggers and hydroxyl generators. After moisture extraction, debris cleanup, structural drying, and deodorization, SERVPRO professionals focus on rebuilding and repairs needed to return your property to a clean, safe preloss state.

SERVPRO of The Bridgewaters ensures that your home looks and feels, “Like it never even happened.” Call (508) 697-5439 for rapid-response disaster mitigation services 24 hours a day, seven days a week, including all holidays.

Thought Your Kids Might Miss the Chance to Chat with Santa in East Bridgewater This Holiday Season?

11/14/2020 (Permalink)

Have fun at the East Bridgewater YMCA while SERVPRO provides storm and flooding removal from your property.

Cocoa, Cookies, and Santa Are Still On at the East Bridgewater YMCA Camp Grounds -- Bring a Food Donation to Spread Holiday Cheer

Nothing stops Santa from visiting all the good girls and boys. Sign up your kiddos for their reserved time to visit with Santa and get a holiday photo they can treasure forever. This year the celebration is outside, so bundle up. Enjoy some sweet treats and cocoa to warm tummies and toes. Pen a letter to Santa to make sure all dreams come true while waiting for a turn with the jolly fella on the fire truck.

Date And Time:

• Saturday, December 5, 2020

12:00 PM – 2:00 PM

• Location

Old Colony YMCA East Bridgewater

635 Plymouth Street

East Bridgewater, MA 02333-2011

Fret not if severe late fall storms require flood removal in your basement. Call (508) 697-5439 to get the crew from SERVPRO of The Bridgewaters on the job, getting your home ready for the holidays, and maybe a visit from Old Saint Nick.

Where Can Bridgewater Homeowners Go for Professional Flood Restoration?

10/29/2020 (Permalink)

We are here to make the flood “Like it never even happened.”

Bridgewater Residents Can Call SERVPRO to Restore Their Flooded Homes

Is Professional Restoration Needed for Only a Small Amount of Floodwater?
The answer is always yes for calling SERVPRO. Bridgewater residential flooding always contains some amount of everything it flowed over before entering the home. The soil and other particulates can quickly stain floor trim, wall paneling, and more. Also, any water, if left standing for more than a few hours, can begin to ruin both personal and structural property.

Where Do You Start?
Our technicians begin by removing bulk water and flood damage in Bridgewater homes. This includes all standing floodwater and any trapped in carpets, behind walls, and between floorboards. After getting rid of the water, they remove all non-restorable items like carpets, soaked paper products, and then demolish and remove permanently affected structural property like drywall and other paneling if technicians find an excess of moisture.

Is It Necessary to Cut into Drywall or Other Material to Look for Moisture?
No. Technicians also use several moisture sensing devices to find water trapped in material or behind walls and ceilings.

    •    Penetrating Moisture Meters – These devices detect the moisture level in building materials with two small probes that pierce the surface to measure electrical conductivity. With special attachments, technicians can measure an item layer by layer.
    •    Inspection Cameras – These devices are excellent for checking wall cavities and examining the HVAC ductwork for moisture. Technicians use hand-held devices for small areas and larger ones, some mechanized, to fully examine the extensive ductwork in almost every home.

For more information on the tools we use to restore your home here or in Easton or to schedule a service visit, contact SERVPRO of The Bridgewaters at (508) 697-5439 today. We are here to make the flood “Like it never even happened.”

Can I Salvage My Wood Flooring After a Flood in Easton?

9/2/2020 (Permalink)

After a flood, contact SERVPRO of The Bridgewaters at (508) 697-5439.

SERVPRO Water Restoration Technicians in Easton Restore Hard Wood Flooring Whenever Possible

After a flood in Easton, your first thought maybe that the category 3 black floodwater destroyed everything. Do not rush to discard everything in your home completely. SERVPRO's goal is the less expensive option of restoration over replacement. Before the restoration process begins, technicians make it a priority to fully extract the floodwater, provide cleanup, and thoroughly dry the impacted area. Since floodwater contains groundwater contamination, our IICRC technicians use safety measures, including appropriate PPE, to ensure safe working and living conditions.

The Floors Need Refinishing, Do I Have To Strip the Old Finish First? The SERVPRO Team Uses Specialized Equipment to Remove Old Finish Before Reapplying
Ideally, the initial flood damage cleanup in your Easton property goes smoothly, and your floors are dried adequately. Once technicians perform those initial crucial steps, they go about restoring your home to preloss condition. Removing damaged finish and reapplying for an even surface and effective vapor barrier. Rotary Floor Machines use abrasion to remove the finish and create an even surface.

How Does a Rotary Floor Machine Work?
    •    Used to buff and strip finish from wood flooring.
    •    Technicians attach a pad to the drive block on the rotary (roto) machine. Pads vary per the abrasion level required.
    •    In some cases, technicians may opt to use a cleaning solution before refinishing. They release the solution and apply it on to the surface in a swirling motion.
    •    The solution tank requires cleaning chemicals pre-mixed with warm water.

It is crucial to pay attention to details such as even finish during any restoration project to ensure adequate and long-lasting results.

After a flood, contact SERVPRO of The Bridgewaters at (508) 697-5439. We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster.

What Should I Do When Moisture Enters My House and Causes the Humidity Levels to Rise?

7/26/2020 (Permalink)

Don't Be Dogged by Flood Damage to Your Bridgewater Home! Call SERVPRO

For Floodwater Removal Inside Your Home in Bridgewater Call SERVPRO

When severe thunderstorms visit Bridgewater, the result can be heavy rain pours and flooding conditions. When the rain is copious, there are many ways moisture can enter your building, including rising from the ground and coming in from a broken window or other compromised structural members.

How can I fix my house after water gets inside?

Our SERVPRO technicians can conduct floodwater removal at your Bridgewater residence to reduce the chances of secondary damage, such as mold growth or humidity-related problems from occurring. Since mold can start to develop once your organic building materials and contents stay wet for more than 48 hours, we always work towards removing moisture from your structure as quickly as possible. We can accomplish rapid structural drying by setting up air movers and dehumidifiers. Dehumidification systems can reduce humidity levels by pulling moisture out of there, thus preventing secondary moisture caused by elevated humidity levels.

How do you calculate how many dehumidifiers to set up?

When determining how many dehumidifiers to install, we assess the situation and put your water damage scenario into one of the following classes.

       Class 1: This class describes the lowest level of water absorption inside your house. Problems with your building are considered class one when porous building materials such as your carpets retain a small amount of moisture.

       Class 2: This class depicts situations where wet, porous materials comprise 5% to 40% of the surface area in the affected space. And, semi-porous materials such as wood or concrete have retained minimal levels of H2O.

       Class 3: Class three issues occur when wet, porous materials like your carpet or drywall make up more than 40% of the surface area of the affected space.

       Class 4: The highest level of water absorption occurs when low evaporative materials such as your wooden subfloors, studs, and plaster walls retain a high level of moisture. SERVPRO offers exceptional service for these tougher than usual restoration services and follows the best practices of the IICRC.

To reduce your chance of secondary damage after your home experiences flooding conditions, call SERVPRO of The Bridgewaters at (508) 697-5439, 24/7.

How Can I Get the Floodwater Out of My Bridgewater Basement?

6/6/2020 (Permalink)

“Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO can extract the water and dry your Bridgewater basement quickly

When floodwater enters a Bridgewater basement, it is vital to get the water out of the area as fast as possible. This is particularly true for basements as many do not have sump pumps or enough drainage. The longer the water stands, the more it degrades, and the more dangerous it becomes to handle due to bacteria and other harmful elements.

Why Should I Outsource the Cleanup of Flood Damage to My Basement?

SERVPRO technicians take special care to remove the flood damage in Bridgewater homes. Common issues homeowners deal with when this type of water loss happens can include:
    •    The flooring of all types tends to take a beating and often requires removal to dry the concrete substrate underneath
    •    Wet contents that require relocation to another area for drying
    •    Standing water
    •    Damaged sheetrock in finished basements

How the Professional Extraction and Drying Process Works

The techs test the water so they can identify any harmful elements they are dealing with. SERVPRO technicians use portable pumps most often unless the water is greater than two inches in depth. In those cases, submersible units can get the job done rapidly. Most flooring requires removal and disposal, exposing the substrate for drying. Because most basements do not have the same ventilation as the rest of a home, the drying process can need a large number of air movers and multiple dehumidifiers to rapidly reduce the interior humidity levels.

Final Cleaning for a Complete Restoration

After the drying phase completed, the techs wipe down the water loss area with antimicrobials or antibacterial cleaning agents as needed. This leaves surfaces sanitized and ready for reuse by the residents.

When intense storms deliver flood damage to local properties, the certified technicians at SERVPRO of The Bridgewaters at (508) 697-5439 are ready to come to your residence 24/7 and make the water loss “Like it never even happened.”

If You Need Help in Your Bridgewater Home with Flood Removal, Call SERVPRO!

3/11/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is quick to get your flood damage under control in Bridgewater.

We have the Trained and Certified Technicians you need for Flood Removal

There are many potential causes for flooding in your home, all of which call for immediate action before the damage becomes immense. The motto at SERVPRO is that We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster, which means your property gets the prompt attention that you need. We have all of the best equipment and personnel to address any flood damage so that your home gets back to normal fast. 

Once you call our offices for help with flood removal in Bridgewater, you are asked questions about the level of damage to your home. The SERVPRO crew chief formulates a plan so that the team arrives with the right equipment on the trucks to address any pressing concerns after arrival on site. Known as First Notice of Loss (FNOL), this initial communication with our technicians is essential for a smooth restoration process. 

Extraction

Water extraction is a vital step for removing moisture from your home after a flood loss. SERVPRO has access to a range of extraction tools that help us remove water from affected areas. Truck-mounted pumps and vacuums facilitate water removal, followed by extraction tools inside the home. For carpeted areas, light wands easily pull water from the glue-down carpet. Self-propelled extraction tools move over the carpet, compressing both the carpet and the padding beneath. The weight helps to squeeze the moisture out for efficient removal. 

Drying

Air moving equipment is put into place to enhance moisture evaporation from the surface level of the home and reduce the time to dry. These units put out high-velocity airflow that works in unison with industrial-strength dehumidifiers for optimum drying. SERVPRO technicians monitor the moisture levels and the air temperatures in the room, moving each drying unit as needed to get the best results.

Structural Drying

With any flood loss, the chances are high that water infiltrated areas under baseboards and behind walls. Structural cavity drying equipment helps to direct airflow throughout wall cavities, helping to replace the moist air with warmer air to increase evaporation rates.

Before our restoration team leaves your home, we use moisture detection tools to ensure the drying is complete. This is then followed by proper disinfection to inhibit mold and bacterial growth. 

Call us at (508) 697-5439 if you need help with flood damage. Our team at SERVPRO of The Bridgewaters is ready to go for all emergency services!

Want to know more about Bridgewater?

Cleaning Floodwater In Your Bridgewater Basement

2/14/2020 (Permalink)

Give our team a call anytime at (508) 697-5439.

Cleaning Floodwater from Unfinished Bridgewater Basements

Natural flooding can introduce debris, sediment, and other solids to the basement of your Bridgewater home. While water in this situation can spread quickly throughout this level of the property, the proper mitigation and cleaning techniques can help to regain control of the disaster and reduce preventable loss. Between extraction, drying, muck out services, and cleaning, we can make flood losses “Like it never even happened.”

Before restoring elements of flood damage to Bridgewater homes like debris and potential contaminants, our SERVPRO professionals must focus on removing standing water. With natural flooding scenarios, unfinished basements can allow for substantial penetration. Following these disasters, homes in the direct path of migrating floodwater can battle several feet of standing water. Our technicians have premier equipment to help, including a wide array of extraction tools.

In situations where debris is known to exist, and a higher volume of water is present, we can utilize our extractor trucks. When hooked up directly through the truck-mount pump, we can discharge floodwater into sanitary sewer systems or culverts. With continual discharge, these powerful extractors can work at levels of 300 psi to extract thousands of gallons of standing water until debris removal and cleaning could be practical to begin.

Muck out and cleaning work together with controlled demolition. In many situations, portions of exposed wood framework joists beneath the floor must get cleaned with biocides and disinfectants. This sterilization can remove the potential for widespread biothreats and the development of mold colonies. We can also clean and dry concrete floors by first shoveling out mud and debris and working with pressure washers and cleaning agents to restore the floor to its original condition.

After a flooding incident, any homeowner can contend with substantial debris, mud, and other solids. Cleaning up after this loss can require a wide array of proven techniques, cutting-edge equipment, and potent products. Our SERVPRO of The Bridgewaters team can help with a fast response to begin extraction and debris removal as promptly as possible. Give our team a call anytime at (508) 697-5439.

For more about Bridgewater click here.

Our Experts Discuss Why Immediate Action Is Crucial After A Flood In Easton

12/21/2019 (Permalink)

“Like it never even happened.”

Immediate Action is Critical to Address Flood Damage in Easton

While you may think that all floods are due to rising water from lakes and streams nearby, you should know that several natural factors can bring on floodwaters. The quicker that you can spring into action to remedy the situation, the easier it is to cut back on the devastation to your property. This is when contacting professionals at SERVPRO to restore your residence is the best option.

Homes with flood damage in Easton should be assessed and repaired as quickly as possible right after the event takes place. Experienced flood remediation technicians have the tools, expertise, and manpower to lessen the loss and help you get back to your life as usual. Once any natural disaster takes hold and wind and rain come with it, several areas around your property can become vulnerable.

Tree Damage
With a major storm, wind and rain can leave tree damage on your roof once the rainfall breaks through. It can saturate all of the materials within the exposed space. Any absorbent material is saturated can hold onto the moisture for an extended period. It is critical that you remove saturated materials and that the extraction begins to pull up as much as possible before water stains and mold set in. SERVPRO technicians work to tarp off the area to stop unwanted rain as well as vermin or pests from coming inside.

Window Breakage
If a window is left open during a major storm or it breaks from wind or flying debris, water can come in saturating the room as well as spreading down into the walls. Damaged window frames could also mean that water gets down inside the walls, causing warping, rust, and mildew. Our trained technicians use infrared moisture detection tools to locate any wet areas and then make sure that the window is repaired.

Standing Water
Any standing water has to be removed quickly, which is when SERVPRO team members use high-powered pumps, vacuums, and extraction tools to pull up as much moisture as possible. Other tools we employ to dry a flood-damaged home thoroughly include handheld equipment with heat, dehumidifiers, and air movers that work to circulate the area. This is followed closely by odor management to remove any unwanted smells left behind.

Whenever you are faced when flood damage, call our staff at SERVPRO of The Bridgewaters at (508) 697-5439, and we can send out a team as quickly as possible to begin an assessment.

For more about Easton click here.

Cleaning and Disinfection Is Crucial After A Flood In Bridgewater

11/6/2019 (Permalink)

Give us a call at (508) 697-5439.

Cleaning and Disinfection After Flood Loss in Bridgewater Homes

Disasters can take a severe toll on your Bridgewater house. Despite your ability to keep a clean home, the level of care and restoration that a property needs after natural flooding often exceeds the limitations and knowledge of traditional upkeep and maintenance for your property. Our cleaning technicians have accreditations through the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), making them knowledgeable assets in returning your flooded property to preloss condition.
 
After natural flooding, there are many obstacles to overcome with the flood cleanup in Bridgewater homes. Silt, mud, and contaminants all play an active role in the hurdles our SERVPRO professionals must address to return your property to its original condition. Cleaning and disinfection might be among the final stages beyond controlled demolition, extraction, and drying, but they are vital to keeping your family safe.
 
Beyond the mud and debris in your home after flooding, bacteria and other contaminants could also be present in the intruding water that adds a hazardous situation to leave your family exposed to for prolonged periods. Our SERVPRO team can arrive quickly, despite when the disaster occurs, so that your home does not wait a moment longer than necessary for protection and early mitigation steps. This process most often begins with the assessment of which construction materials like drywall requires removal by our contracting unit.
 
We have a powerful line of potent cleaning products developed to stay in compliance with OSHA regulations while not limiting the potential strength and effectiveness of our cleaning efforts. We have virucides and sporicides that can get sprayed directly on structural elements, framework, joists, and other supports to prevent the spread of bacteria or the growth of microbial threats in these areas.
 
After a flood, you might not always think of prioritizing cleaning and revitalization. Because of our experience and extensive training through the IICRC, we can assess the severity of hazards and bio-threats, helping to regain control of the widespread disaster and get you back to normal life fast. No matter how severe flood losses can be, our SERVPRO of The Bridgewaters team can make it “Like it never even happened.” Give us a call at (508) 697-5439.

For more about Bridgewater click here.

We Act Fast To Limit More Damage To Your Bridgewater Home After A Flood

9/25/2019 (Permalink)

Water came half way up the cellar stairs in this home after a flood. We were able to start restoration right away.

How Controlled Demolition Helps Mitigate Flood Damage in Bridgewater

When you are already panicking as floodwaters rise in your Bridgewater home, hearing from a mitigation expert that building material tear-out is recommended can heighten your anxiety. Understanding the reasons for the planned demolition of carefully selected and usually easily replaced structures helps you put additional disruption into perspective. Our Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC)-trained managers and technicians use this strategy judiciously, following industry best practices.

Flood Water Is Hazardous

When managing flood damage in your Bridgewater residence, we presume that the fluids in your home harbor hazards such as bacteria, viruses, and other microbes. Floodwaters can contain sewage from street drain overflows. They also pick up chemicals, animal and insect waste, and other pollutants as they move across roadways, industrial sites, agricultural land, and yards. Black or Category 3 water can expose inhabitants to health risks if not removed thoroughly, dried out completely, and disinfected with EPA-registered products.

Scoping the Affected Area for Hidden Flood Water

It is an inadequate professional response to extract only visible fluids from the flooded area. Water migrates through porous materials like drywall into building cavities and seeps and trickles into crevices and cracks along floor planks and baseboards, soaking subfloors. Water trapped between wallpaper and paint or above ceiling tiles creates bulges and empty cells in cinder block can hold substantial quantities of water. We use infrared imaging cameras to show temperature fluctuations that can indicate caches of water. Moisture meters also help us follow the path of absorbed fluids in structural components.

Required Release of Contaminated Water

If the flood damage that traveled into, behind, beneath, and above structural components remains in place, the microbes can multiply, damaging organic materials and endangering the health of your family. The SERVPRO crew uses strategies to release the water for collection and disposal. Flood cuts slice through and remove drywall several inches above the waterline. We then can access the space behind to pump or extract water. Weep holes punched through bulging surfaces allow water to drain out. Drilled holes in mortar joints give water trapped behind bricks, blocks, or stucco a pathway out.

Access for Disinfection and Structural Drying

All the above controlled demolition techniques also give SERVPRO access to enhance warm airflow during structural drying. Our EPA-registered disinfectants can be applied via spray or other methods to treat all surfaces soaked with microbial rich fluid. The disinfection kills the bacteria, viruses, and fungi that might otherwise grow unchecked.

SERVPRO of The Bridgewaters chooses controlled demolition to reach all areas contaminated with Category 3 flood water. We help arrange for rebuilding after we ensure inhibition of microbial growth. Call us at (508) 697-5439 to schedule a professional evaluation and flood damage abatement plan.

See more about Bridgewater.

We Act Fast To Restore Your Bridgewater Home After A Storm

7/30/2019 (Permalink)

The basement in this home flooded out when torrential rain came up the east cost. We were able to arrive right away and begin restoration.

Is Your Flooded Bridgewater Home Actually Contaminated?

Many homeowners believe that professional restoration teams like ours utilize scare tactics and threatening terminology to discourage homeowners from attempting restoration of their Bridgewater house on their own. With the widespread damages present after a flood, the recovery of these properties can be a substantial challenge – though not impossible – for owners to address. Some risks and threats exist with natural disasters like this, and the more aware you are about them, the better prepared you are to overcome them during extraction, drying, and cleaning of the house.

The problem with the DIY recovery of flood damage in Bridgewater homes is less about the work involved and more about the misinformation available for you to read on the internet and blogs. Natural flooding scenarios can bring contaminants and bacteria into your property, and as such, this is a condition that you must adequately prepare for with the proper disinfection protocols and personal protective equipment throughout the restoration and recovery of the property.

Many homeowners might question how contaminated the water actually is, especially since it might appear to be no different than creek water with high turbidity and cloudiness. The level of contamination is a direct result of the threats the floodwater encountered on the path to your residence. From dead animals and chemicals to raw sewage and debris, there could be life-threatening contamination, or very little. All floodwater from rising creeks and streams in the area should be considered contaminated and treated as such.

Likewise, flood damage that occurs from direct rainfall and runoff from a structural breach to the roof can get treated as non-hazardous unless a known threat exists. Identifying the appropriate type of flooding situation that you have can change the way that you, or our SERVPRO professionals, address the cleanup and restoration.

Recovering your property after flood damage is a situation ideal for the experience and advanced equipment of our SERVPRO of The Bridgewaters professionals. We can work quickly to remove damaging floodwaters and decontaminate exposed materials to make it “Like it never even happened.” Give us a call today at (508) 697-5439.

See more about Bridgewaters.

We Go Above And Beyond In Caring For Your Belongings After A Flood In Bridgewater

5/8/2019 (Permalink)

We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to offer our experience, expertise, and necessary equipment to restore your home.

Protecting Contents with Pack-Outs in Flooded Bridgewater Homes

As a restoration company that has been proudly serving the Bridgewater area for many years, we always strive to give our customers a thorough and detail-oriented restoration approach. When situations like flooding occur, we can protect affected contents and materials within that house by allowing our contents department to identify which of your belongings, furniture, and other affected materials can benefit from focused attention and relocation.

The affected contents of your Bridgewater home after flood damage cannot often remain in their original positions, and can continue to impact these items negatively. Instead, our SERVPRO professionals can safely pack up these items into production trailers that arrive with our Green Fleet and work to relocate them to our facility. There, these items can get better protected while also receiving specific attention to thoroughly clean, deodorize, and disinfect them.

Once your belongings arrive at our facility, our SERVPRO team can get to work on the cleaning and deodorization process, as many of these items can fall victim to mud, debris, and potential contaminants floodwater brings into your property. There are multiple approaches to addressing odor concerns from the use of our hydroxyl generator to our ozone chamber to effectively remove the harsh odor from multiple possessions and pieces of furniture simultaneously.

We can tag these items and safely store them within our warehouse as restoration work continues in your home. This area of our facility is climate and temperature controlled, ensuring that no harm befalls these items until they are ready to get returned to your restored property. Once our IICRC-Certified restoration specialists have brought your home back to preloss condition, our contents department can bring the recovered items back to your property to get returned to their original positions.

While many people can appreciate our desire to go above and beyond for our customers, many do not fully understand the lengths that our team goes to ensure that we protect your possessions during a disaster. No matter when flooding occurs, our SERVPRO of The Bridgewaters team can get there quickly to make it “Like it never even happened.” Give us a call at (508) 697-5439.

Our Town Manager is seeking volunteers for the following committees and boards click here for more details.

What is the Best Way to Extract Water From Your Flooded Bridgewater Home?

4/24/2019 (Permalink)

Each vehicle in our Green Fleet is stocked with equipment to dry your water damaged home.

Effective Extraction and Flood Recovery for Your Bridgewater Home

When severe water loss incidents and flooding occur in your Bridgewater home, you have to react quickly to get the appropriate personnel in route to make a difference quickly. Floodwater can spread fast throughout the property, affecting multiple rooms and areas of the house and saturating both structural elements and the construction materials exposed like drywall, flooring, and carpeting. Addressing these concerns must happen immediately to protect and preserve these affected components.

With flood damage recovery for your Bridgewater home, time is of the essence from the first sign of trouble. Often severe weather is to blame for flooding situations, and with structural concerns that allow the flow of water into your property, you need to get these vulnerabilities covered immediately to prevent further damage and degradation. Our SERVPRO professionals have a 24/7 response to flooding and water loss incident emergencies, arriving with the full measure of our mitigation equipment and expertise to recover your property quickly and effectively.

Once our team arrives at your flood-damaged address, we introduce the array of extraction equipment stocked on our production trailers that arrive with the Green Fleet. From the extractor trucks within this fleet to portable options like submersible pumps and wet-vacs with extraction wands, we can remove standing water effectively from the affected areas of your property. The faster that this pooling threat can get addressed is the faster that the team can focus on drying efforts that are equally vital to protecting the exposed materials within your house.

We also arrive with an extensive inventory of efficient drying equipment such as our high-velocity air movers, LGR and desiccant dehumidifiers, and other specialty tools to help maintain our progress such as moisture detection and thermal imagery devices. Our SERVPRO team can help to dry out damaged construction materials to protect them and prevent unnecessary demolition and reconstruction.

With so many symptoms that could occur from flooding in your property, the longer you wait for restoration and recovery, the more damage that can ultimately result. Our SERVPRO of The Bridgewater's rapid response team can help with temporary emergency boarding and tarping as well as vital mitigation and recovery efforts to protect your investment in the property and help restoration to be more efficient. Give us a call anytime at (508) 697-5439.

Bridgewater was chartered in 1656.  Read more here.

Lightning Myth vs Fact

6/12/2018 (Permalink)

According to the United States Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), an average of 60 people are killed each year by lightning, & hundreds more are severely injured.  Many times, these injuries are due to misinformation around the seriousness of thunderstorms and lightning.  Here are a few of the most common myths about lightning.

• MYTH:  If it is not raining, there is no danger from lightning.

  FACT:Lightning often strikes outside of heavy rain and may occur up to 10 miles away from heavy rainfall.

• MYTH:  If you are in a house, you are 100% safe from lightning. 

  FACT: A house is a safe place to be during a thunderstorm as long as you avoid anything that conducts electricity, including corded phones, electrical appliances, wires, TV cables, computers, plumbing, metal doors, and windows.

•  MYTH: Lightning never strikes the same place twice.

  FACT: Lightning often strikes the same place repeatedly.  The Empire State Building is hit nearly 100 times a year.

• MYTH: A lightning victim is electrified.  If you touch them, you’ll be electrocuted.

  FACT: The human body does not store electricity.  It is perfectly safe to touch a lightning victim to give them first aid.  Call 9-1-1 and begin CPR immediately.

• MYTH: If outside in a thunderstorm, seek shelter under a tree to stay dry.

  FACT: Being underneath a tree is the second leading cause of lightning casualties.

Storm Damage

6/12/2018 (Permalink)

It doesn't matter if a summer thunderstorm, winter blizzard or a monsoon of proportions, when a storm is coming there are ways to be prepared.

Your roof takes the brunt. If your roof is 5 to 10 years old check your tiles and shingles to see if they are loose. If you have time fix them prior to the storm arriving.

Doors and windows are another prime ways that strong winds can get inside. In a normal rain/wind storm windows should be able to repel 9-pound 2-by-4 wind speed which equals to about 34 mph wind. 

When was the last time you scrutinized your flashing? if the protective material appears to be unattached have it replaced, to prevent water damage from the rain.

If you have suffered a Wind/Rain damage call SERVPRO of The Bridgewaters at 508-697-5439 to help with the clean-up of your home.

When STORMS RAGE ~ SERVPRO is FASTER to ANY SIZE DISASTER!

4/9/2018 (Permalink)

When STORMS RAGE ~ SERVPRO is FASTER to ANY SIZE DISASTER!

SERVPRO of The Bridgewaters ~ FASTER to ANY SIZE DISASTER!

When STORMS Rage, Flooding and Water EMERGENCIES don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we!

SERVPRO of The Bridgewaters provides Emergency Cleaning and Restoration Services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week ~ Including All Holidays!

We at SERVPRO of The Bridgewaters pride ourselves on being FASTER to ANY SIZE DISASTER!

Flood and Water Damage is very invasive! Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more!

SERVPRO of The Bridgewaters arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately! This immediate response helps to not only minimize the damage it also minimizes your cleaning and restoration costs!

When STORMS RAGE, contact SERVPRO of The Bridgewaters to handle YOUR Emergency Flood and Water Disaster ~ Anytime; Day or Night! ~ Available 24/7 ~ Including ALL holidays!

Spring Storm Preparedness Plan

4/5/2018 (Permalink)

Contact SERVPRO of The Bridgewaters for YOUR Spring Storm Water Damage ~ Faster to Any Size Disaster! ~ Available 24/7

Spring has officially arrived, and although we are ready for the nice weather, most of us are not ready for the storms and flooding.

Instead of letting the storm and flood damage take over your  home, be proactive! Prepare ahead of time for stormy weather to strike! Consider the following "Tips" for your Spring Storm Preparedness Plan:

• Check for leaks in your home ahead of time; on your own BEFORE finding them during a storm! Take matters into your own hands! Use your garden hose on the light spray setting to test any suspicious areas around the perimeter of your home that may have caused issues in the past. This will help you determine where potential leaks may be happen.

• Roof flashing is installed below the first course of roofing material. Be sure the flow of water is directed away from openings! This will not only keep water from entering your home, but will also protect the interior walls from deteriorating. It’s always a good idea to have your roof professionally inspected annually to check for potential damage.

• Make sure to keep your gutters free of debris. Take this important step to eliminate the possibility of a constant flow of water down the exterior of your home during a storm. Cluttered gutters can cause water to leak into your home.

• Basements; because they are located at the very bottom of your home are the most common areas to flood during a storm. A sump pump is recommended to protect your assets! If you have a sump pump already, make sure to check for any damage or signs of failure. (Irreplaceable items, if stored in your basement should be placed on high shelving or, better yet, on an altogether different level of your home in preparation of unexpected weather events).
• Lastly, compare  costs of readiness vs risk of loss. Many people hold off  initiating their Storm Preparedness Plan due to the cost involved. This IS NOT suggested! Protecting your property is well worth the financial investment AND the peace of mind!

Storm Safety

3/30/2018 (Permalink)

Down trees on power lines.

Fallen Trees can cause

Roof Damage 

Snow and ice can cause significant damage to your gutters and roof. The additional weight of snow and ice can even cause a roof to collapse. When there’s a cold snap, water can get into cracks and small spaces and expand when it freezes, causing larger cracks and more damage. The repetition of freezing and thawing cycles can cause small cracks to get larger.

Down Power lines

This can make roads impassible and cause dangers to motorists. Be careful! The best thing you can do during storms like this is stay home and off the roads until the storm has died down Downed power lines can energize the ground up to 35 feet away. If you see a downed power line, immediately notify local authorities. Never drive over downed power lines or through water that is in contact with them. Never try to move a downed power line.

Pet Tips from The Humane Society of the United States:

3/30/2018 (Permalink)

The following tips on winter pet safety are provided by The Humane Society of the United States:

• If pets cannot come indoors, make sure they are protected by a dry, draft-free enclosure large enough to allow them to sit and lie down, but small enough to hold in the pet’s body heat. Raise the floor a few inches off the ground and cover it with cedar shavings or straw. Turn the enclosure away from the wind and cover the doorway with waterproof burlap or heavy plastic.
• Salt and other chemicals used to melt snow and ice can irritate a pet’s paws. Wipe their paws with a damp towel before your pet licks them and irritates their mouth.
• Antifreeze is a deadly poison. Wipe up spills and store antifreeze out of reach.

Basement flooding - Bellingham, MA

4/19/2017 (Permalink)

When a swift moving storm passed it left this homeowner with a flooded basement.

 With spring approaching, for some homeowners this is a time when basements flood. Here's how to deal with a flooded basement from seasonal rain and melting snow.

According to Flood Smart a 1000 square foot home flooded with a mere 1' of water can lead to over $10,000 worth of damage. Most basements flood for the following reason.

Burst pipes, sudden downpours a copious amount of melting snow, broken gutters, leaky windows, damaged foundations, sudden removal of large trees near your home etc... 

What can you do to prevent a basement flood? 

Check your pipes, look for any area that may look like there is corrosion. If you see cracks in your foundation get it fixed. Seal or replace basement windows. Check downspouts so that they are away from the house. 

If you have suffered a flooded basement give SERVPRO of The Bridgewaters at 508-697-5439 to help you clean you basement today.

Wind Storm loss - Sudbury, MA

4/19/2017 (Permalink)

Wind swept rain came caused inside damage to this home.

It doesn't matter if a summer thunderstorm, winter blizzard or a monsoon of proportions, when a storm is coming there are ways to be prepared.

Your roof takes the brunt. If your roof is 5 to 10 years old check your tiles and shingles to see if they are loose. If you have time fix them prior to the storm arriving.

Doors and windows are another prime ways that strong winds can get inside. In a normal rain/wind storm windows should be able to repel 9-pound 2-by-4 wind speed which equals to about 34 mph wind. 

When was the last time you scrutinized your flashing? if the protective material appears to be unattached have it replaced, to prevent water damage from the rain.

If you have suffered a Wind/Rain damage call SERVPRO of The Bridgewaters at 508-697-5439 to help with the clean-up of your home.

Lightening strike -Raynham, MA

3/6/2017 (Permalink)

Lightening strike had just gazed the eves of this home during a storm.

If you know that your house has just been struck by lightning, call the fire department. The most common area for fires to start are within the walls and attic, where the fire can hide. 

A lightning bolt's main objective is to find the path of least resistance from cloud to ground. Most homes have many potential routes for lightning to follow. A few examples would be electric lines, cable and phone lines, gutters, etc....

There are three main hazards to a house that is hit directly

• Fire Danger: this is the biggest threat to homes.


• Power Surge Damage: If lighten chooses any of the home's electrical wiring, the explosive surge can damage even non-electronic appliance that are connected to an outlet.


• Shock Wave Damage: The shock waves that lightning create is what produces the thunder that we hear and at close range, these waves can be destructive. It can fracture concrete, brick, chimney etc.

It is nearly impossible to provide 100% protection to avoid your home being struck by lightning. However if you have been stuck the best thing to do is contact the fire department and leave your home if you smell smoke. 

Ice Dam Damage Cause and prevention -North Easton, MA

3/2/2017 (Permalink)

This unsuspecting homeowner suffered a loss from an Ice Dam.

Icicles can be cool looking but they could be holding onto something powerful enough to create mass destruction in your home, ICE DAMS.

Ice Dams form along the eaves of a roof preventing the snow from adequately draining and creating a backup.  When Water is trapped it seeks way to escape from the very prison created by the Ice Dams. When it has found that opening it is generally in your home.  It begins to nestle in the insulation, until it can no longer hold its weight, pressing even further into your ceilings and walls, until it’s reached its potential.

How To Prevent Ice Dams.

• Seal air leaks


• Seal leaky air ducts


• Add more insulation.


• Make sure there is sufficient ventilation in the attic.

If you suffer from an Ice Dam give SERVPRO of The Bridgewaters at 508-697-5439. Our technicians are trained and certified to help with the cleanup of your loss. 

Wind Damage - Waban, MA

3/1/2017 (Permalink)

It seems that every day another weather story makes the news. From flooding to hurricanes, to an Ice storm. Weather can affect us wherever we live with very little warning. There is really no way to prevent potential storm damage.

The first step in emergency preparedness is to remove dead tree branches. They can break off in a storm posing a danger to people. As the homeowner had found out the hard way during this storm. Here  are some other helpful hints.

Keep Lights on During a Power Outage with a Generator.

If you have a generator follow these safety rules.

• Have a working CO Detector
• Only use portable generators outdoors not in partially enclosed/enclosed areas
• Keep them away from windows, doors, crawlspaces and overhangs
• Always read the manufacturer's operating and maintenance instructions.
• NEVER add gasoline to a hot or running portable generator.

Weather Proof your home.

• Keep gutters clean and clear of debris.
• Fix drainage problems in your yard to prevent flooding

Lawn Care Before and After the Storm.

• Don't work in your yard when a storm is in the area
• Pick up yard debris.

If you suffer a loss call SERVPRO of The Bridgewaters at 508-697-5439 we our trained Technicians can clean up any loss.

Basement Flooding - E. Bridgewater, MA

3/1/2017 (Permalink)

This homeowner was taken by surprise when flooding hit.

In the past 5 years all 50 state have experienced flooding including in those areas that are considered by FEMA a low threat.

What is a flood.

A flood is a temporary condition where two or more properties or land are inundated by water. It can affect even areas that are considered to be at low risk. 

What To Do After A Flood

• Call your insurance agent to file a claim
• Check for structural damage before re-entering your home
• Take photos of any damaged to your personal property
• Make a list of damaged
• Call the experts.

At SERVPRO of The Bridgewaters all are Technicians are trained and certified to handle even the toughest of flood waters. 

Call SERVPRO of the Bridgwaters today at 508-697-5439

Lightning Myths

4/24/2014 (Permalink)

According to the United States Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), an average of 60 people are killed each year by lightning, & hundreds more are severely injured.  Many times, these injuries are due to misinformation around the seriousness of thunderstorms and lightning.  Here are a few of the most common myths about lightning.

• MYTH:  If it is not raining, there is no danger from lightning.

  FACT:Lightning often strikes outside of heavy rain and may occur up to 10 miles away from heavy rainfall.

• MYTH:  If you are in a house, you are 100% safe from lightning. 

  FACT: A house is a safe place to be during a thunderstorm as long as you avoid anything that conducts electricity, including corded phones, electrical appliances, wires, TV cables, computers, plumbing, metal doors, and windows.

•  MYTH: Lightning never strikes the same place twice.

  FACT: Lightning often strikes the same place repeatedly.  The Empire State Building is hit nearly 100 times a year.

• MYTH: A lightning victim is electrified.  If you touch them, you’ll be electrocuted.

  FACT: The human body does not store electricity.  It is perfectly safe to touch a lightning victim to give them first aid.  Call 9-1-1 and begin CPR immediately.

• MYTH: If outside in a thunderstorm, seek shelter under a tree to stay dry.

  FACT: Being underneath a tree is the second leading cause of lightning casualties.