Dangers of Underestimating a Water Damage

11/10/2022 (Permalink)

The amount of damage water can cause is amazing and often underestimated by homeowners. Excess moisture is bad enough, but when a home is flooded or hit with a plumbing disaster (like a busted pipe), the situation can quickly get out of hand. There’s a reason why these incidents are among the most expensive problems a homeowner can face. 

Drywall, wood and the matter trapped in carpet fibers are just a few examples, and they can give pathogens room to grow. Within 48 hours, mold may begin creeping behind the walls and releasing spores, and any organic materials that have been soaked through by contaminated fluid will usually have to be destroyed.

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas will dry the home quickly and apply a plant based antimicrobial to all surfaces that had contact with the water. This ensures the family can return to a safe home.

Commercial Water Damages - Call SERVPRO

9/14/2022 (Permalink)

Quick Response When Storm Damages Occur

9/9/2022 (Permalink)

Turkey Talk

9/1/2022 (Permalink)

Turkey Day (aka - Thanksgiving) is fast approaching and it is that time of the year again when family and friends come together for a feast. There are several ways to cook a turkey, but a favorite among some is deep-fried. Unfortunately, we have all seen the videos that end in a fiery ball of poultry. If you plan on deep frying a turkey this year, please keep the following tips in mind. 

• Thaw and Dry turkey completely before cooking.
• Thaw the turkey in the refrigerator for approximately 24 hours for every 5 pounds, according to The National Turkey Federation (http://www.eatturkey.com)
• Ice or water that mixes can cause flare-ups
• Fryer Setup
• Use fryer OUTDOORS and away from decks, garages, homes, and other structures.
• Keep children and pets away from the fryer. 
• Use on a flat surface to avoid accidental tipping. Make sure the tank and burner are at least 2+ feet apart.
• Measure the Oil
• Avoid overfilling by reading the manufacturer’s instructions. 
• Be Prepared (SAFETY FIRST!)
• Use oven mitts to protect hands and/or arms.
• Safety goggles to protect eyes
• Have a grease-rated fire extinguisher nearby and ready.
• Finishing Act
• Remove pot from burner and place on a level surface.
• Allow the oil to cool overnight before disposing of oil in a sealed container.

Most importantly, NEVER LEAVE FRYERS UNATTENDED!! Please be careful this upcoming holiday season and share these tips with your friends and family that enjoy fried turkey.

If you do become a victim of a deep-fryer fire, SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, & Douglas is here to help. We are available 24/7/365 days a year at 912-285-0724

Commercial Properties and Carpet Cleaning

8/8/2022 (Permalink)

Every business is different - request a free quote for a carpet cleaning today!

Commercial carpets can be considered a big investment.

The heavy-duty carpets are designed to endure, but with excessive foot traffic, properly taking care of them often is necessary. SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas is well equipped to assist with the upkeep of your carpet cleaning needs. Besides vacuuming the carpet regularly, your commercial carpet should also be deep cleaned to extend its life and to keep it looking well-kept and professional.

A clean, healthy carpet helps set the first impression your customers have when they walk into your business and should provide a clean and safe environment for your employees.  Carpets are also the place where a lot of airborne particles and other dirt gather over time.  Besides aesthetics, keeping a clean carpet also helps provide healthy indoor air quality.

How Often Should My Carpet Be Cleaned?

Different environments can have several different effects on your commercial carpet.  We typically notice that commercial carpets may need to be considered for cleaning no less than twice a year. However, if you notice a buildup of dirt on your floors, it’s time to schedule a cleaning.  

Schedule an Appointment

Call SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas (912)285-0724 and schedule your carpet cleaning today.

Severe Weather – Be Prepared

7/2/2022 (Permalink)

Severe weather can happen anytime, anywhere. Each year, Americans cope with an average of:

• 10,000 severe thunderstorms
• 5,000 floods or flash floods
• 1,000 tornadoes
• 2 land falling deadly hurricanes

Approximately 98 percent of all presidentially declared disasters are weather-related, leading to around 100’s of deaths per year and billions of dollars in damage. Knowing your risk of severe weather, taking a few actions and being an example to others 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 communication 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.

Build an 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

Local Firework Shows Near Waycross

6/30/2022 (Permalink)

Enjoy a safe and fun 4th of July celebration!

Are you looking for Fireworks for the 4th of July? Here is your localized list of Firework Shows happening in and around Ware County

1. City of Waycross: 4th of July Celebration at Bit Tanner Field - 7:30 PM kicks off with music and fireworks follow at 9PM
2. Laura Walker State Park - Old Fashioned 4th of July Celebration - $5 per car fun starts at 9 AM and fireworks begin at dark!
3. Emmanuel Baptist Church in Blackshear, GA- Hosting a firework spectacular on July 3. This 20-minute firework show is expected to start at dusk. Best viewing would be in Emmanuels Baptist parking lot or another nearby parking lot.
4. City of Screven 4th Annual Independence Day Celebration. An all-day festival starting at 2 PM with fireworks beginning at dark.
5. City of Douglas hosting their 4th Annual 4th of July Freedom Celebration at JC Adams Municipal Park starting at dark.

If you are opting to do fireworks at home please check with your city and county ordinance. 

Where is the Water Shut Off?

6/27/2022 (Permalink)

Do You Know Where the Water Shut Off Is at Work?

Many workplaces always call on the boss or the maintenance man when something goes wrong. What if they were home sick, or in a meeting and you need to locate the water shut off, where do you start? Do you have an emergency plan in place?

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, & Douglas Georgia can help commercial property managers in planning for a water, fire, storm damage. How? With a free Emergency Response Profile created by the SERVPRO.

By having a plan of action and including it in your regular training at your office you can minimize the cost if an unplanned event happens like a frozen pipe, fire or any other type of disaster. 

Some property managers use this as a tool to keep everything organized in one central location. 

Is your business ready for a disaster? Even a simple pipe burst can cause a lot of damage and headache. With a SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile it can have the critical information to minimize damages, provide the resources for the employees of the company, and provide property details and information. This is a FREE service that we provide to commercial properties. 

If the unthinkable happens, call your local SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas at (912) 285-0724 seven days a week 24/7 to help you avoid the cost and hassle of secondary damages.  We will help make it "Like it never even happened."

The Importance of Air Movers

6/27/2022 (Permalink)

Drying equipment at SERVPRO

When water damage has occurred, water can be absorbed into the drywall (sheetrock), baseboards, subflooring, etc. Drying these surfaces requires high-velocity air movers to accelerate the release of absorbed water into the air. Dehumidifiers are necessary for removing this excess moisture to help protect property and create conditions for efficient drying.

TYPES OF AIR MOVERS

There are two types of industrial air movers we use at SERVPRO of Gainesville. Both types vary by direction and speed of airflow:

• Axial: Axial air movers blow large amounts of air in a wide space. These air movers are usually larger and produce a higher airflow. Axial air movers can only move air horizontally, but they are ideal for drying walls and floors, cooling equipment, and ventilation.
• Centrifugal: Centrifugal air movers are compact models. They draw air from different sources and direct it all to one spot. You might use a centrifugal air mover in hard-to-reach areas such as closets, cabinets, and crawl spaces.

If you’ve had water damage at your home or business call SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, & Douglas GA 912-285-0724 for emergency service, we are available 24/7.

Common Causes of Electrical Fires

6/27/2022 (Permalink)

If you experience a fire damage, call SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, & Douglas at 912-285-0724

Common Causes of Electrical Fires

Most electrical fires in Waycross, GA homes and businesses are caused by faulty electrical outlets and or old, outdated appliances. The following are the most common reasons why electrical fires happen:

1. Old electrical sockets and unsafe appliances

Appliances that are old and overused and those that fall short of modern safety standards are the worst culprits. Frayed electrical cords, self-jointed wires, and worn-out sockets that are not properly grounded are major causes of fires. They become ready outlets for directing heat and fire to carpets, rugs, curtains, and combustible plastic. Older appliances draw more power than the wall sockets can handle.

1. Using light fixtures that exceed the permissible wattage

A very common cause of fires is plugging lights, lighting appliances, and bulbs into electrical sockets that cannot handle higher wattage levels. Antique lighting appliances may have defective wiring that makes the appliance unstable by overheating. Decorating lights with colored paper and cloth shades can increase the risk of fire when the material or fabric heats up.

1. Using multiple appliances plugged into an extension cord

Unrestricted use of extension cords is a major fire hazard. The risk of fire increases when your TV, home theatre, computer, and other appliances are all plugged into a single extension cord. This creates excessive power load on a single socket which may not be designed to handle that load.

1. Locating portable heaters near combustible materials

Portable space heaters that use coils are potentially dangerous when they are positioned carelessly near curtains and rugs and adjacent to beds and cloth-covered furniture. The chances of inflammable material coming into contact with the red-hot coils increase the risk of fire.

1. Wiring that becomes defective with the passage of time

Over a period of time, you add more electrical appliances such as wide screen televisions, home theatres, microwave ovens, refrigerators, and air conditioners. The outdated home wiring cannot handle the increased power load. Older wiring tends to heat up quickly and catches fire. If the breaker boxes are themselves defective, they cannot prevent overheated electrical panels from catching fire.

Prepare Before the Storm

6/27/2022 (Permalink)

Preparing for severe weather can be a frightening thing, but it is something that everyone is wise to do for their household. Most parts of the United States carry a severe weather risk, and while summer is when the majority of storms occur, it is becoming more and more common to need to be prepared for severe weather year-round.

Severe storms can often move through without incident, but it is important to be on alert any time they are around. Despite meteorological advancements, the weather can still be unpredictable and take a turn for the worse with little warning.

Fortunately, with a storm safety plan, you can significantly lessen the risk that is posed to you and your family in the event of a severe weather incident.

Considerations for a Storm Safety Plan

Find a Reliable Way to Get Alerts When the alert system is working as intended, you should be notified on your phone about severe weather. However, with an issue as serious as this, it is important to have a backup as well. A NOAA weather radio is a great way to ensure you can receive alerts even if your phone battery is dead or the cell phone networks are working unreliably.

Be Sure You Have a Designated Safe Space It is important to get to safety when severe weather becomes a threat, so designate a safe space in your home for household members to utilize. Ideally, this space would be a basement or crawlspace, but an interior bathroom or closet on the ground floor can also work. It is a good idea to store your emergency kit in this space as well, so you have access to everything you may need while the storm is nearby.

Know the Difference Between Watches and Warnings It is important to understand your specific risks during any severe weather event, which is why it is vital to remember the difference between watches and warnings. A “watch” means that conditions are favorable for a weather event, but one is not currently happening. When a “warning” is issued, that means to get to shelter immediately, as there is an incident of the event in the area.

If your home gets damaged due to a storm or flood, you can count on SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, & Douglas, GA to make your water damaged issues, “Like it never even happened.” Contact us today at 912-285-0724 

Storm Restoration Equipment

6/27/2022 (Permalink)

If your business has been hit by storm damage it's important to call in the professionals as soon as possible. SERVPRO® of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas is the best company for storm damage restoration, due to our extensive experience and equipment. We have the right tools and techniques to make any project "Like it never even happened." In addition, we're available 24/7 to respond to your needs, no matter what time of day or night it is.

Whether it's board-up services, water damage cleanup, or mold removal, we'll be there to help you get your home or business back up and running as soon as possible. Call us today for a free consultation.

A few of the tools we use when restoring property storm damage include:

Air movers:

Used to move large volumes of air quickly across a surface in order to evaporate moisture and dry the area.

Industrial Dehumidifiers:

Remove excess moisture from the air, which helps prevent the growth of mold and mildew. With our heavy-duty truck mount dehumidifiers, there's no property damage too significant for our team to handle.

HEPA Vacuums:

Capture small particles and allergens from almost any surface.

Thermal Imagers:

Help us see moisture and heat loss in walls, ceilings, and floors so that we can target our repairs.

Water Extraction Units:

Remove large quantities of water quickly from carpets, furniture, and other surfaces.

Power Generation:

In some cases, storm damage can knock out power to the property. Our team has the ability to provide temporary power so that we can continue to restore your home or business under any conditions.

Moisture Meters:

Help us determine the level of moisture in walls, ceilings, building materials, and floors so that we can target our drying, cleaning, and repairs.

Our teams at SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, & Douglas have the right tools, techniques, equipment, and supplies to effectively and professionally restore your home's or business's storm damage "Like it never even happened."

Call us today at 912-285-0724

Local Professional Restoration Specialists Are Here to Help When You Have Water Damage

5/23/2022 (Permalink)

Let the SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas team come to assess the situation to avoid future mold and mildew issues.

Water damages can seem like a minor issue after you get all of the water up. What happens when you don’t get a professional to remediate the issue?

A simple fridge leak can seem like minor damage. After you mop up the water- problem solved right? The truth is many homeowners may not see the full extent of the damage of the property. The damage beneath the floor or inside the walls and cabinets. That’s why SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville and Douglas is here to help.

The trained professionals at SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville and Douglas know exactly where to start to properly repair and remediate your home to return it to preloss conditions. Have a water damage? Let the SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas team come to assess the situation to avoid future mold and mildew issues.

Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial.

Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville and Douglas is an IICRC firm. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.

Give us a call - (912) 285-0724

Available 24/7 to assist you in your water and fire damage restoration needs. Making it "Like it never even happened."

Preventing Electrical Fires in Our Area

5/11/2022 (Permalink)

Never use extension cords for major appliances like dryers, washers, fridge, oven and stove.

It's easy to take electricity for granted. Electricity is a phenomenal tool, but also comes with some dangers if not handled properly.

Fires caused by electrical problems are more common than you might think, according to the USFA there is approximately 45,000 home fires each year attributed to electrical issues. 

Electrical fires tend to peak during the colder months and holidays with overloaded extension cords among other factors.

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville and Douglas has compiled a list of safety tips to prevent electrical fires in your home or business.

Always have your electrical work done by a qualified electrician.

Don’t overload your outlets by plugging in multiple heat-producing appliances in at a time.

Never use extension cords for major appliances like dryers, washers, fridge, oven and stove.

All major appliances need to be plugged directly into the wall to prevent electrical fires.

Extension cords are used for temporary purposes.

If you need a permanent fix for more outlets call a qualified electrician to complete the work.

Be sure the wattage for your lightbulb is correct for the light fixture to eliminate a fire hazard.

Your Local Team with Restoration Training

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville and Douglas specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event.

From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration.

Our smoke damage expertise and experience allow us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.

If your home or business has damage from an electrical fire call SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville and Douglas (912) 285-0724.

Being Prepared: Georgia's Tornado Season

5/11/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville and Douglas is prepared to help you and your family when a storm hits (912) 285-0724.

We are heading toward the end of tornado season for Southeast Georgia, but it's not over yet. With our biggest threat of wind damage for our inner coastal Georgia areas. Even though tornadoes are year-round in Georgia they see their peak in March through May.

What to know about tornadoes in Georgia

All of Georgia is prone to tornadoes.

Tornadoes most often occur in mid-afternoon to early evening. It can strike at any time day or night.

Georgia tornadoes are often accompanied by hail and strong rainfall.

Know the difference between a Tornado Watch and Tornado Warning

Tornado Watch: Weather conditions have the "ingredients" to produce a tornado.

Tornado Warning: A tornado has been spotted in your area and should take immediate shelter.

The State of Georgia recommends:

If local authorities issue a tornado warning or if you see a funnel cloud, take shelter immediately.
Storm cellars or basements provide the best protection.

If underground shelter is not available, go into an interior room or hallway on the lowest floor possible.

In a high-rise building, go to a small interior room or hallway on the lowest floor possible.

Stay away from windows, doors and outside walls. Go to the center of the room. Stay away from corners because they attract debris.

A vehicle, trailer or mobile home does not provide good protection. Plan to go quickly to a building with a strong foundation, if possible.

If shelter is not available, lie flat in a ditch or other low-lying area. Do not get under an overpass or bridge. You are safer in a low, flat location.

Stay in the shelter location until the danger has passed.

Tornado season is here, stay prepared and stay aware.

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville and Douglas is prepared to help you and your family when a storm hits our rural Georgia area. We offer a wide range of emergency response services such as:

Tarping Damaged Roofs and Buildings

Containing Damage

24- Hour Emergency Response

Generators

Water Damage Restoration

We are ALWAYS Here to Help our neighbors when disaster strikes.

Have Storm or Flood Damage?
Call Us Today (912) 285-0724

Important Things to Know If You Have Fire Damage

4/26/2022 (Permalink)

When your home or business is affected by a fire, you usually don’t think about the aftermath of the damage right away. There will be all the insurance concerns, and calculating what needs to be replaced, but eventually, you will notice that lingering smell.

Here are some tips on getting rid of the smell and damage from smoke:

Let fresh air circulate through the building.

Close all the windows and doors except one and place a fan in a central location.

The one open window will act like an exhaust, forcing the pressure of the air blown by the fan to push out any lingering smoke.

Remove linens. Pillows and drapes, etc. need to be washed completely as soon as possible to remove any residue.

Plastic blinds will need to be wiped down by hand.
Wash all solid surfaces.

Tables, chairs, baseboards, shelving and tile all need to be sprayed down and scrubbed well to remove smoke residue.

One recommendation is to use a teaspoon of dish soap per gallon of water and a quarter of a cup of white vinegar to take care of any odors.

Vacuum carpeted areas. Using a vacuum that holds a high-efficiency filter, vacuum all carpeting in the affected areas. This type of filter will ensure that particles don’t blow back into the air.

Cleaning the furniture at this time will be a good idea.

Wash all windows and screening.

Make sure the smaller items are attended to, such as windows, light fixtures, screening, etc.

Scrub and mop surface flooring.

Cleaning your hard-surfaced floors will need to be done to remove all particles and residue.

Keep your mop rinsed so that those particles aren’t just being circulated back through the water used.

Each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville and Douglas has the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.

Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

At SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville and Douglas, we are experienced in cleanup after fire and water damage. Call us today at (912) 285-0724.

Wastewater is Dirty Business in Your Commercial Site

4/25/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas Can Help

Toilet and sewage overflow is irritating, smelly, and it's also dangerous. This can lead to water damage in your commercial building.

There could be irreversible damage to equipment and inventory. Once you detect overflow signs, you should hire a reliable company to clean up the mess immediately.

At SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas, we offer excellent restoration and cleaning services to our clients.

We understand the urgency of cleaning sewage as soon as possible. We provide a reliable emergency service to deal with sewage and toilet overflow. Our technicians use advanced cleaning and restoration equipment. Our staff is trained and certified.

Have Questions? Call Us Today – (912) 285-0724

Below are reliable tips for handling sewage and toilet overflow.

Vacate the Contaminated Areas Right Away

Once the overflow occurs in your building, you should head to a safe place. Flooded areas should only be occupied by individuals with the right protective garments and equipment.

Hire a SERVPRO Cleanup Specialist

If you have wastewater in your commercial site, you should contact SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas will deal with the mess quickly and correctly.

Dehumidifiers, steam cleaners, and air scrubbers are some of the equipment that we use to clean and restore your building after an overflow. First, our specialists turn off the electrical sockets touched by water to avoid more damages. Then, they remove the wastewater from the building.

Decontaminate your Business

Decontamination of your business is an important part of the removal of wastewater. Our cleanup specialists will wash the carpets, dry them, and decontaminate them. However, if the overflow saturates carpeting, you should replace the materials immediately.

Our septic specialists will also examine the septic tanks to prevent more flooding. Tanks left unattended could suffer a spill recurrence, which will damage your commercial property.

Lastly, to avoid a recurrence of the problem, SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas specialists will help you to diagnose its cause. The experts will clearly identify the problems to avoid more costly damages. We will ensure that your business is safe.

Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas (912) 285-0724 provides professional cleaning or emergency restoration services to get your business running smoothly again.

Flood Damage Response in Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas

4/25/2022 (Permalink)

Towels or shop vacs will never do the job after flood damage. What you need is a company that provides you with an Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) – certified team to address the damage.

Looking beyond what the eye sees on the surface level. SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas provides 24-hour fire and water damage restoration service.

SERVPRO gives you access to highly trained personnel, equipment, and resources that make combating issues associated with flood damage easier than ever before. We are available 24-hours a day, 7 days a week, year-round, and work hard to provide you with full-service solutions you can count on to regain control of your home. Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we.

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs. Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more.

The Training to Get it Right

Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Contact SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas for access to full-service flood damage solutions throughout the Waycross, Douglas, and Hinesville areas. We’re here to help return your home to preloss condition as quickly and efficiently as possible. If you have questions about water, fire or storm damage, give us a call (912)285-0724.

Commercial Flooding in Waycross, Hinesville and Douglas

4/22/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas (912) 285-0724

When your commercial property floods, rely on SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas. We minimize the disruption to your clients while delivering industry leading results. Our commercial cleaning services range from emergency water extraction to yearly HVAC cleanings.

Whether you just need a yearly maintenance clean or emergency restoration SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas is here to make it “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas proudly offers these services to not only our residential customers, but commercial clients as well:

Commercial Fire Restoration

Commercial Water Restoration

Commercial Storm Damage Restoration

Air Ducts and HVAC

Biohazard and Sewage

Trauma and Crime Scene

Carpets

Ceilings and Walls

Odor Removal and Deodorization

Vandalism

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas can respond immediately to your commercial fire, water and or storm damage emergencies regardless of the size or scope of the damage.

Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event.

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

We are always HERE to HELP. Reach out to us anytime at (912) 285-0724.

Fire Damage Can Leave Behind Odors if Not Treated

4/22/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a wee

Fire, smoke, and soot damage in your home or business can create a very unpleasant and potentially permanent odor. As various materials burn, the smoke produced travels throughout your home or business, leaving odor deposits on surface and hard-to-reach places.

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas is prepared to combat these odors with technicians certified by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration (IICRC). SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas can provide specialized services that can rid your home or business of offensive odors left behind by fire or smoke damage.

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas will not cover up lingering odors with a fragrance. We seek to find the source of the odor and remove it.

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas is always ready to help, we provide emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost. Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important.

Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. We believe in continuous training: from initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

If you have fire damage contact SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas for your deodorization (912) 285-0724.

Thousands of Fires are Started by Something in Your Home That You Probably Don't Think About Often

4/21/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas (912)285-0724

Most of us don’t think about the maintenance of our dryers, but we should. The U.S. Fire Administration reports that every year there are thousands of home fires started by clothes dryers.

Lint and debris can build up in your dryer vent, reducing airflow to the dryer, backing up dryer exhaust gases, which can result in a fire hazard. It is recommended you have your dryer exhaust system cleaned at least twice a year.

How to tell if your dryer vent is clogged

The normal drying cycle is not drying clothes

Clothes are hotter at the end of the cycle

A large amount of lint accumulates in the lint trap

Your laundry area is more humid

The burnt smell in your laundry room

The outside dryer vent cover is not lifting

There are tips online on how to clean your dryer vent system, but it is recommended you hire a professional. In addition to the reduced threat of fire, a cleaning can pay for itself in less than a year through improved efficiency with less drying time required.

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas is here for you should you do have a loss from a dryer vent fire. Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions. We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.

We believe in continuous training: from initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration, and we are an IICRC Certified Firm.

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas (912)285-0724

Fire Prevention in Your Business

4/19/2022 (Permalink)

Post your evacuation plan in public areas so that both your staff and customers are aware of where to go in the event of a fire.

Preventing Fires in Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas

The SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas team would like to share some tips to help keep yourself, your staff, and your business safe:

Install high-quality smoke detectors on or near the ceilings of your business in all areas, including warehouses and outlying buildings.

Installing Carbon Monoxide alarms in the same areas is always a good idea since CO is an odorless and colorless gas produced by burning fuels.

Ensure that you have multipurpose fire extinguishers readily accessible in several areas of your property, and make sure your staff knows where they are and how to use them properly.

Your HVAC unit should be inspected on a regular basis.

Employ a professional for these types of specialized tasks.

Create an escape plan for your team and make sure everyone understands it and can follow the plan in case of fire.

Post your evacuation plan in public areas so that both your staff and customers are aware of where to go in the event of a fire. Second story buildings should have an escape ladder; post warnings near any elevators that they are not to be used in case of a fire.

There are remote monitors available today that let you know if there is a fire in your buildings while you are not there. They can be plugged into an electrical outlet easily and connected to your internet, and you will be notified by the app you download on your phone.

During repair or re-modelling of your business property, use fire-resistant building materials when available. For example, using a fire- retardant brand of insulation can be a huge part of keeping your workspaces fire safe.

Call the team here at SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas for assistance with fire safety, and remember we are always available for large-scale cleanups after fire and water damage in both residential and commercial properties.

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas (912) 285-0724.

Costly Lightning Strikes Might Be More Common Than You Think

4/8/2022 (Permalink)

If you have storm damage call SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas (912) 285-0724.

Powerful storms can cause damage to your home, wind, flooding and even lightning.  When it strikes a home it can cause massive damage to electrical systems, appliances and electronics. Just a few years ago, in 2018 there were $909 million in lightning claims were paid out to nearly 78,000 policyholders.

Lightning is the most under-recognized threat among weather hazards, in part because strikes can happen anywhere at any time. There are some precautions you can take for your home if you're concerned.

Whole House Surge Protector

A whole-house surge protector, also known as a surge suppressor or UPS device, works like the ones that people use to protect their computers.

Lightning Protection Systems

A lightning protection system is based on the scientific principle that electricity follows the path of least resistance. These systems are built to give the electricity in a lightning strike a low-resistance pathway around a home’s pipes and wiring and into the ground.

Unplugging Appliances

While not very practical, unplugging major appliances can protect them from a surge caused when lightning strikes

Where to begin if your home gets struck by lightning:

Safety first: evacuate your family from your home if you see or smell smoke.

Call 911 and tell them your home was struck by lightning if you suspect fire damage.

Once your home is assessed and found to be safe, you will be able to return inside.

Call SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas (912) 285-0724

If you have storm damage, call our experienced, trained team. SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies.

We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your storm damage.

Helping Your Business Look and Smell Better

3/29/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO technicians have received extensive training in order to handle a wide array of assignments correctly and rapidly.

Many business owners in the Southeast Georgia region look forward to a very busy time of year. If you'd like to spruce up your commercial premises to appeal to more customers, you'll appreciate the professional cleaning services offered by SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas. Let us help you impress your customers and staff this season. We specialize in creating sparkling clean, welcoming environments.

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas offers vital commercial services. We offer genuinely comprehensive cleaning and sanitizing assistance. Our well-trained technicians use specialize professional-grade tools to remove embedded grease and debris from floors, carpets, upholstery, walls, ceilings and air vents. We'll eliminate unpleasant lingering odors, too. Ask us to help refresh and revitalize blinds and drapes and help restore the brilliant luster of crystal clear glass windows! We'll help clear away grime and thoroughly refurbish offices, real estate listings, restaurants and other commercial premises to help ensure your company makes an attractive impression on visitors.

Many studies have shown first impressions frequently impact customer purchasing decisions. If you want your firm to appear efficient and capable, you'll need to maintain odor-free commercial premises. By asking us to help you spruce up your work environment, you'll make a smart investment in your business this year. As you look forward to a great season, remember to schedule your company's next appointment with SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas.

Reliable Commercial Cleaning

Our commercial cleaning services can also help businesses facing unusual, unexpected cleanup challenges. Did vandals leave ugly graffiti scrawled along the exterior of one of your rental properties? Has your new construction site developed a distasteful, musty odor as a result of flooding or sewage backups? Ask us to completely clean and sanitize these locations. We carefully beautify commercial sites, removing stains and sticky, ingrained dirt from building surfaces and furnishings. Let us help you put your best foot forward during one of the busiest times of year.

Your customers will notice the difference when we perform reliable commercial cleaning at your location. Our technicians have received extensive training in order to handle a wide array of assignments correctly and rapidly. Our commercial cleaning services help enhance your business image at a pivotal time of year. Call now to reserve the dates and times you prefer for SERVPRO cleaning services.

Have Questions? Call Today – (912) 285-0724

Checking Your Fire Extinguisher Could Save a Life

3/21/2022 (Permalink)

A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

Fire extinguishers are a valuable tool in the fight against smaller fires in your workplace or at home. They can also be used to protect evacuation routes in the event of a larger fire when emergency personnel have to be brought in.

According to OSHA, the most common emergency occurrence that small businesses should plan for is fire. We are sharing tips here that will help in the event of a fire.

OSHA requires employers to train workers thoroughly on how to use a fire extinguisher correctly and to accurately assess the situation if a fire is to occur, properly determining when evacuation is the safest course of action. The organization has established annual training for employees as a minimal requirement for all places of business.

The PASS training technique can be used, and is outlined here:

P: Pull the pin on the extinguisher.

A: Aim the nozzle of the hose at the base of the fire.

S: Squeeze the handle to release the extinguishing agent.

S: Sweep the nozzle from side to side, directed at the base of the flames, until the fire is extinguished.

Once an employee knows how to properly operate a fire extinguisher, they should then also be trained to follow fire safety protocol. An employee should know how to:

Locate and activate the fire alarm.

Call the fire department and emergency responders immediately.

Determine a safe evacuation route that will direct people away from flames, excessive heat, and smoke. They should know how to keep the route from becoming blocked, as well.

Use the PASS technique for discharging a fire extinguisher and know to back away from the area if the fire flares up again.

Evacuate the area immediately if the fire is still going and the extinguisher is empty, or if the fire grows beyond what can be safely handled without fire department personnel.

Fire extinguishers are made to handle small fires only. If a fire grows too large or the environment becomes too dangerous, employees should know when and how to evacuate. Excessive smoke and heat, impaired evacuation routes, and poor visibility are all conditions that can arise quickly, and employees need to be trained in safety first and foremost.

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville and Douglas specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration, and we are an IICRC Certified Firm.

A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost. Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important.

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville and Douglas is here to help in the event of cleanup after fire. We also handle water damages and mold remediation. Call us today at (912) 285-0724.

Protecting Your Investment After a Storm

3/16/2022 (Permalink)

We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your water damage. SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville and Douglas (912) 285-0724.

Did you know that there's a restoration company in Waycross, Hinesville and Douglas offers roof tarping?

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville and Douglas offers emergency service tarping 24-hours a day, seven days a week. We are HERE to HELP protect and prevent your home from further damages.

3 Benefits of Roof Tarping:

1. Prevents further water damage.

2.Allows for temporary roofing fix until your roofing contractor is available.

3. Secures your property from environmental factors.

When strong winds cause damage to your roof or structure contact SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville and Douglas to conduct a tarping to prevent further damage. If you have damage in your home, we can help with that as well.

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville and Douglas specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large-scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area.

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville and Douglas has been a trusted leader in the restoration industry since 1992. We are here to help our neighbors when disaster strikes. We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your water damage. SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville and Douglas (912) 285-0724.

Residential Fires and Keeping Your Property Safe

3/11/2022 (Permalink)

Fire damage can be overwhelming. Call SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas for professional restoration (912) 285-0724.

The Aftermath of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas Fire Damage to a Home

Many people never experience a fire, and that’s a good thing. If there is a fire in your home, there is a lot to think about. 

Here are some tips in the event of fire damage to your home or business.

After any fire situation, your focus should be on safety first:

Make sure any activities you do are safe to perform.

Keep in mind that wet material is very heavy, so limit lifting to anything you can do safely within your own ability.

Make sure it’s safe to stay in the house or building affected. If not, evacuate.

Avoid electrical hazards and be aware of slip and fall dangers as well.

While you are waiting for the fire department and emergency personnel, you will want to:

Limit movement around the space to prevent soot particles from becoming embedded in upholstery and carpeting.

Place clean towels and old linens on rugs, furniture, and traffic areas that are carpeted.

Protect chrome by applying a light coating of petroleum jelly or oil.

Wash the leaves of houseplants on both sides.
Change any HVAC filters.

Empty freezer and fridge and prop doors open if the electricity has been turned off.

Things you will want to keep in mind that you may not have known:

Don’t clean any electrical appliances that may have been affected by heat or water without contacting an authorized repair service.

Canned or packaged foods or beverages will not be fit for consumption if they were stored near the fire, heat or water; they will need to be thrown away.

The wiring in ceiling fixtures may have been damaged, so don’t turn any of these items on until they have been inspected by a professional.

Sending clothing to an ordinary dry cleaner can set the smoke odor if the company is not prepared to handle fire and smoke damage properly.

Fire damage can be overwhelming. Call SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas for professional restoration. When you are dealing with water and fire damage, immediate action is critical. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the fire and water damage.

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions. We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas is dedicated to keeping you and your property safe. We are ready to assist in the event of damages from water and fire, large or small. Call us today at (912) 285-0724

Water Damage Restoration in Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas

3/8/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas is experienced in repairs and cleanup from damages caused by water and fire (912) 285-0724

Flooding can be a storm hazard and can be inconvenient and even dangerous. Possessions are often ruined, and the structures of homes and businesses can be negatively affected. People can be injured and even end up in very dangerous situations in some cases. A professional water damage restoration company can be a ready and important resource during such times; such companies are able to complete all necessary repairs in a timely and efficient manner and keep you, your loved ones, and work staff out of harm’s way.

While storms can’t be predicted much of the time, being well-versed in the areas most vulnerable to storm damages will help you be prepared to handle such an event. Some areas of your home or business are going to be more apt to experience damage than others during storms, such as low-lying areas like basements, cellars, and parking lots, for example.

Planning ahead in these areas is smart:

Low-lying areas: Basements and cellars, the lowest parts of a house or building, need to be watched during wet weather since they have a number of easy entry points for water. If there is heavy rainfall during inclement weather, or if the building is near a body of water such as a lake or river, they are going to be in danger. Keep an eye open for cracks in the foundation, ceiling, and walls of these areas. Handling the aftermath of flooding and storm damage can be very expensive but is an event that can be avoided if you plan ahead.

Roofs, attics, gutters: A damaged roof, either from weather or fire, is susceptible to water damage, and the areas underneath it will suffer. A small leak can turn into a big problem before you know it. If rain gutters have not been properly maintained, you may experience some problems stemming from standing water - even indoors. It doesn’t take long for mold growth to begin a colony, so proper planning can be a real help here.

Entryways, windows, doors: Keep an eye on your doors and windows. If they are not properly sealed against wet conditions, you will know it right away. Entryways are also a potential problem area, make sure they are free of standing water and debris. Proper planning in this area can prevent injuries and costly repairs.

Our team of professionals at SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas is experienced in repairs and cleanup from damages caused by water and fire. You can call us at (912) 285-0724

Water Damage in Waycross Requires Professional Attention

2/11/2022 (Permalink)

If you have water damage, we are ready to help. Call SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas (912) 285-0724.

Water damage in your home or business can be costly. There are some things you can do to avoid major water damage. Also, by doing these checks and basic maintenance you might detect a hidden leak early.

Look for watertight options in new windows and doors. Older wood windows should be cleaned, and repainted. Breaks or cracks in trim should be resealed.

If you have an older house, check the condition of your pipes. The lifespan of plumbing varies by the pipe material. If you suspect damage or leaks, consider replacing.

The easiest solutions to overflowing gutters are to either add another downspout on that run of gutter or to increase the size of the downspout.

Install a sump pump. This might be necessary if water damage has been a serious problem in your basement. Consider buying a backup battery-powered pump in case the power goes out.

Replace washing machine supply hoses every three to five years.

Install a water leak detection system.

Regularly check your roof for signs of damage.

Seal your basement. Different materials and methods vary in application and cost.

The SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas Team is Ready to Help

If you have water damage you should call SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas (912) 285-0724. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is critical. SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small.

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. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration.

If you have questions about water damage, click here or call SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas (912) 285-0724.

Spotting Destructive Water Damage Before It Becomes an Expensive Problem

2/1/2022 (Permalink)

Look under sinks for water damage, mold and leaks.

When it comes to water damage in your home or business, sometimes the most out-of-the-way places can be where the biggest problems start.

As a homeowner you are checking the roof and gutters, but something small, like a silent drip under the sink can be quietly creating significant damage. Once an area becomes damp and stays damp, mold can begin to spread quickly.

Creating a cleaning and maintenance schedule for your home can help you keep an eye on all the different areas of concern. If you have water damage or suspect mold, call SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas, (912) 285-0724.

Here are some tips to help you avoid water damage:

Add the task of checking all areas under and around sinks for leaks to your cleaning/maintenance schedule.

Replace visible water pipes and hardware as soon as they show significant signs of wear, and before they begin leaking.

Clean under sinks and ensure that the areas are completely dry and sanitary. 

Don’t ignore any signs of dampness, buckling wood or particle board sheeting under the sink, musty smells, discoloration. These are all signs that water is going where it shouldn’t.

The smallest amounts can create significant problems in the future.

If a leak is found, take immediate steps to repair what is wrong. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more. Call SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas, for professional restoration.

Flooding and water damage is very invasive. SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas, arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs. 

The team at SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas, are experienced in water damage cleanup projects both large and small. We also handle fire damage, and mold remediation. We're ready when you need help (912) 285-0724.

Understanding Storm Threats and Storm Damage In Georgia

1/3/2022 (Permalink)

Georgia’s greatest threats from severe thunderstorms are damaging straight-line winds and large hail. Straight-line winds can reach speeds in excess of 58 mph and produce damage similar to a tornado. This is according to the Georgia Emergency Management Agency. These winds occur about 75 days per year in Georgia and are most common in the spring and summer months.

All thunderstorms are dangerous because they can produce strong winds, lightning, tornadoes, hail and flash flooding. The typical thunderstorm is 15 miles in diameter and lasts an average of 30 minutes

.

What You Can Do Before a Thunderstorm

Secure outdoor objects that could blow away or cause damage.

A severe thunderstorm warning means a severe thunderstorm is occurring or will likely occur soon. If you are advised to take shelter, do so immediately.

You should be familiar with the terms that are used to identify a thunderstorm hazard, including understanding the difference between a severe thunderstorm watch and a severe thunderstorm warning.

A severe thunderstorm watch means there is the potential for severe thunderstorms to impact your area within the next 6 hours.

Remove dead or rotting trees and branches that could fall and cause injury or damage during a thunderstorm.

Know your lightning safety rules. For example, if you hear thunder or see lightning, go indoors. Stay indoors for at least 30 minutes after hearing the last of the thunder.

If thunderstorms are expected in your area, postpone outdoor activities.

If You Have Storm Damage, Call the Professional Team

When storms hit Waycross, Hinesville, or Douglas we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster.

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas 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.

Our Team Means 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.

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas (912) 285-0724

Flooding And Water Damage Can Be Overlooked In The Fall

11/29/2021 (Permalink)

Rainy Fall days can lead to water damage and mold. If you have water damage call SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas (912) 285-0724

There are many fun and exciting activities associated with the Autumn. Fall festivals, sports, and the holidays come to mind. It would be reasonable to assume something like mold growth would be the furthest thing from a homeowner or business owner's mind. Homeowners should keep in mind, rain, flooding and other Fall water issues that can cause mold.

Routine maintenance such as changing your air filters and reprogramming thermostats should be accompanied by a thorough inspection and cleaning of your HVAC air ducts by trained professionals. Autumn in most parts of the U.S. is considered the best time to have this service performed, as cooler weather allows for easier inspection of these air ducts that are a prime area for fungal growth. This is due to the possible accumulation of dust in a dark and sometimes moist environment.

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas have highly trained mold remediation experts ready to immediately attend to your individual needs. Whether it's a simple inspection, or a full-scale removal and restoration. We emphasize that all forms of fungal growth need to dealt with cautiously.

Locating and fixing the source of excess moisture is an important priority in remediation. The initial damage assessment includes that process. From there, the technicians will determine what the job will actually entail in the way of equipment, personnel, containment/removal, and air filtration. After all the fungi have been properly dealt with and disposed of, SERVPRO will clean all your effected furnishings and belongings, plus, remove any lingering odors. Finally, if the job requires removal and replacement of drywall, painted surfaces, or carpet, we will take care of this. Since it has been found that fungi spores can spread throughout a home in 48 to 72 hours, it's comforting to know SERVPRO has an emergency service contact number to call for immediate help.

The homeowner or business owner is well advised to call the service number before attempting any do it yourself abatement involving fans, drying methods, or bleach sprays that might compound the initial problem.

In the event that a home or business requires it, we will use our advanced cleaning techniques to restore your belongings, and will even conduct move-outs or pack-outs to protect your possessions from any further damage. We can save damaged documents and photographs, and have a qualified electronics technician on call to inspect and clean household or office devices. 

One of the many virtues of Autumn is the clean, crisp fall air. You can experience this indoors, all year long, if you schedule an inspection/remediation appointment with SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas (912) 285-0724.

Plumbing Issues Can Lead To Serious Water Damage In Your Home

11/8/2021 (Permalink)

If you have water damage in your home or business call SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas (912) 285-0724.

Sometimes water damage in your home can't be prevented, serious flooding from storms is one example. There are some types of water damage that you can work to prevent. One way to avoid plumbing issues is to understand potential issues with your water distribution system.

Potential problems in your plumbing:

Improper pipe installation

Improper pipe insulation

Lack of shut-off valves

Corrosion

Noises made by your pipes

Indications of water leaks and stains

The presence of amateur plumbing

Our Team Is Ready To Help

If you have water damage in your home or business call SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas (912) 285-0724.

Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event.

When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is important. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage. SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small.

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

If you have questions about water damage or restoration, give us a call SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas (912) 285-0724.

If You Have A Fire In Your Commercial Building, Avoid Costly Mistakes

9/16/2021 (Permalink)

A fire in your business can be devastating and costly. Your buildings and items of value may have been lost or badly damaged by the flames, heat, smoke or water. Firefighters may have found it necessary to cut holes in walls to look for hidden flames or in the roof to let out heat and smoke.

The National Fire Protection Association tracks and analyzes fire data. NFPA estimates that U.S. fire departments responded to an average of 3,340 fires in office properties per year. These fires caused an annual average of four civilian deaths, 44 civilian fire injuries, and $112 million in direct property damage. The vast majority of the fires in this category were in business offices.

The clean up after a fire will take a lot of time, patience, and preparation. Below, we are sharing the first steps you will need to take after a fire:

Insurance Company. You will need to contact your insurance agent before any fire damage is repaired or clean-up is begun. Be prepared with information on what is covered, what needs to be repaired or replaced, and how to find reputable companies that can take care of repairs to your property for you during this time.

Important documents. You will want to take steps to find and retrieve all important documents, and replace those that have been lost or irretrievably damaged, such as birth and death records, social security cards, mortgage and banking information and records, wills, stocks, and bonds.

Soot Particles. Try to limit movement about the home to prevent soot particles from becoming embedded in the upholstery of your furniture and carpeting. You can place towels or old linens on your rugs, upholstered furniture, and foot traffic areas to help alleviate this type of damage.

Equipment and Appliances. Changing your HVAC filters after a fire is a good idea, and if the power is out, empty your freezer and fridge and prop the doors open to get rid of smoke. Check wiring for ceiling fans before turning them on as the wiring could have been damaged during the fire.

Fire Damage Specialists. You don’t want to wash any walls or painted surfaces, or clean carpets, etc. without contacting a fire damage specialist. Walls and other surfaces need to be properly cleaned by a professional before any repair is done.

There's never a convenient time for fire or Water damage to strike your commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. When the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business.

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas, we are ready to help you in the event of fire damage to your home or business. We are also experienced in the areas of water damage and mold prevention and remediation.

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas, you can contact us by phone at (912) 285-0724.

Workplace Fires Can Be Prevented

9/1/2021 (Permalink)

Workplace fires are dangerous and costly. They can in many cases be avoided with some preparation  and by following some basic guidance.

More than one in every four office property fires (29%) was caused by cooking equipment, but these fires accounted for just 6% of the direct property damage experienced by office properties. Fires that were intentionally set caused the largest share of direct property damage (20%), while causing 10% of office property fires, according to the National Fire Protection Association.

Install good quality smoke detectors on or near the ceilings of your business in all areas, including warehouses and outlying buildings. Installing Carbon Monoxide alarms in the same areas is always a good idea. CO is an odorless and colorless gas produced by burning fuels.

Ensure that you have multipurpose fire extinguishers readily accessible in several areas of your property. Make sure your staff knows where they are and how to use them.

Have your HVAC unit inspected on a regular basis. Employ a professional for these tasks.

Have an escape plan for your team, and make sure everyone understands it and can follow the plan in case of fire. Post your evacuation plan in public areas so that both your staff and customers are aware of where to go in the event of a fire. Second story buildings should have an escape ladder.

There are remote monitors available today to let you know if there is a fire in your buildings while you are not there. They can be plugged into an electrical outlet easily and connected to your internet, and you will be notified by the app you download on your phone.

During repair or remodeling to your business property, use fire-resistant building materials when available. For example, using a fire retardant brand of insulation can be a huge part of keeping your work spaces fire safe.

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: from initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Call the team here at SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas for help with fire safety. We are always available to assist with home or commercial cleanup after fire and water damage.

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas (912) 285-0724

Mold At Work Is Bad For Business

8/16/2021 (Permalink)

Contact SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas for mold remediation services. SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas (912) 285-0724

If you are concerned about mold in the workplace you are not alone. In fact the Occupational Safety and Health Administration has released a significant amount of guidance. Here is a glimpse at some of the key elements about mold in the workplace.

Moisture control is the key to mold control. When water leaks or spills occur indoors, act promptly. Any initial water infiltration should be stopped and cleaned promptly. A prompt response (within 24-48 hours) and thorough clean- up, drying, and/or removal of water-damaged materials will prevent or limit mold growth.

Mold prevention tips from OSHA include:

Repairing plumbing leaks and leaks in the building structure as soon as possible.

Looking for condensation and wet spots. Fix source(s) of moisture incursion problem(s) as soon as possible.

Preventing moisture from condensing by increasing surface temperature or reducing the moisture level in the air (humidity). To increase surface temperature, insulate or increase air circulation. To reduce the moisture level in the air, repair leaks, increase ventilation (if outside air is cold and dry), or dehumidify (if outdoor air is warm and humid).

Keeping HVAC drip pans clean, flowing properly, and unobstructed.

Performing regularly scheduled building/ HVAC inspections and maintenance, including filter changes.

Maintaining indoor relative humidity below 70% (25 - 60%, if possible).

Venting moisture-generating appliances, such as dryers, to the outside where possible.

Venting kitchens (cooking areas) and bathrooms according to local code requirements.

Cleaning and drying wet or damp spots as soon as possible, but no more than 48 hours after discovery.

Providing adequate drainage around buildings and sloping the ground away from building foundations. Follow all local building codes.
Pinpointing areas where leaks have occurred, identifying the causes, and taking preventive action to ensure that they do not reoccur.

Our Team Is Here To Help

If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas specializes in mold cleanup and restoration, in fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business. Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.

What to Do:

Stay out of affected areas.

Turn off the HVAC system and fans.

Contact SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas for mold remediation services.

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas (912) 285-0724

Inspecting For Damage After A Storm

6/23/2021 (Permalink)

The team here at SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas is always ready to help with cleanup projects

For much of the eastern part of the country, summer is more than just time to go on vacation and play at the beach or the lake. It’s also storm season, and sometimes these storms are violent enough to cause a lot of damage to your home or business. Roofs and landscaping can suffer, as can parking areas, windows and doors.

After a bad storm has moved through your area and it’s safe to move about, you will want to inspect your property and see what kinds of damages you have sustained. Notifying insurance companies and city officials of anything you see that will need attention is something you will want to do right away, so being thorough and making notes of each issue will help you keep track of what needs to be done.

One place you can inspect that will let you know of any damages that you may have overlooked would be your crawl spaces. Sometimes a roof can sustain damage and start leaking, but the evidence won’t show in the rooms below, and you can catch it by noticing the water damage in your crawl space first.

Use a powerful flashlight to inspect this area, and look in every area that is accessible. Remove vent covers in each room, and, while on a ladder, take your time to see as much of the crawl space area as you can. Maybe even enlist the help of another person for a second pair of eyes, they may notice something that you did not.

Water can pool in this part of your building and be attractive to mold, too, so you will want to look for damp places and get them dried out as soon as possible.

The team here at SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas is always ready to help with cleanup projects both large and small. Keep us in mind after storms pass through. We are experts in handling water damage, and mold remediation is one of our specialties. Call us at (912) 285-0724.

With Strong Storms Moving Through Ware County Here Are Somethings To Consider

6/23/2021 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas we want you to be safe during the 2021 hurricane season. We’re sharing some guidelines so that you can be ready if and when a hurricane hits the area.

Before a hurricane:

Sign up for local alerts and warnings and monitor local news and weather reports.

Prepare for a possible evacuation by testing your emergency communication plan with your loved ones in advance.

Make sure everyone knows evacuation routes and designated safe places to stay.

Stock emergency or build a Emergency

Preparedness Kit and supplies, and pack to-go bags.

Collect all important documents and safeguard them.

During a hurricane:

Follow all guidance from your local authorities - like Ware County Emergency Management Agency (EMA)

If you are advised to evacuate, grab your to-go bag and your loved ones and leave immediately.

Stay away from windows and shelter on the lowest level in an interior room, moving to higher ground if there is flooding or a flood warning.

Never walk or drive on flooded roads or through water.

Call 9-1-1 if your life is threatened.

After a hurricane:

Only return to the area of your home when authorities say it is safe to do so.

Do not enter damaged buildings until they are inspected by qualified professionals.

Never walk or drive on flooded roads or through floodwaters.

Keep an eye out for downed trees, power lines, and poles.

Protect your hands and feet with gloves and sturdy shoes.

When cleaning up, do not remove heavy debris by yourself.

Do not drink tap water until local authorities have approved its safety.

Here at SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas, we care about the safety of you and your loved ones. We are experienced in those cleanup jobs that are necessary after flooding and fire and are mold remediation experts as well.

If you have experienced storm, fire or water damage or are having trouble with a mold issue, call us at (912) 285-0724

Mold In Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas

6/13/2021 (Permalink)

If you suspect mold in your kitchen call SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas (912) 285-0724

You can often find mold damage such as mildew in the kitchen of your home or business. Running water from faucets, steam from tea kettles or boiling water, these add moisture to the area, and mold thrives on damp surfaces. Fungus and mold also grow on food that is left alone for too long. If the humidity levels in your kitchen remain high, mold colonies may begin to grow, so keeping up with spills and moisture left behind is always a good idea.

Make sure your kitchen is well ventilated. Opening doors and windows can help with this and using an exhaust fan is also a way to keep levels of humidity lower. If you notice a musty smell in your kitchen, you can call an expert to come and assess the situation. Here at SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas, we are experienced in the area of mold remediation.

Fungus and mildew can grow on unwashed dishes. If wet and dirty dishes are stacked up on each other. they never get a chance to dry out and will provide mold spores the perfect opportunity to start a colony. If a little mold does show up, hot water and soap will take care of it right away.

Sometimes a sink can show signs of mildew or mold beginning to grow; if that happens, just clean it the way you normally would, using cleaning products, and that should take care of it. Make sure you clean all the nooks and crannies, behind the faucets and the unnoticed areas where water sometimes gets trapped. Clean the drain well, also, since this is an area that doesn’t get dried out as often, and mold can easily grow here. You will want to run your garbage disposal daily, as well. This action alone can do a lot to prevent mildew and fungus from returning to the drain.

Take care of any leaks immediately. Whether under your sink or above, you can end up with a serious mold issue pretty quickly if these types of situations are ignored. Mold removal technicians can help take care of a big problem quickly and can get rid of that musty smell. They can also assist with ways to keep mold from growing back, as well.

Professional Response

Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.

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

Call us here at SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas to get help with mold remediation. We are also experts in cleanup after water and fire damage. Call us (912) 285-0724.

An Important Way To Protect Your Home From Fire

6/13/2021 (Permalink)

Call us at (912) 285-0724 for all your large-scale cleanup projects

Smoke detectors are an important part of protecting any home or business. Make it a priority to maintain your smoke detectors on a regular basis so that while you are going about your daily routine they are ready to alert you to danger.

Every bedroom and sleeping area on every level of your home needs a smoke detector. Even the attic and basement.

Make sure that every unit is securely fastened to its surface, whether it is a wall or a ceiling.

When it comes to the workplace, ensure that they are installed in all areas where people spend time, from the bathroom to the warehouse.

Customer waiting areas and public restrooms need to be outfitted, as well.

Make sure you know how old your alarms are and test them monthly. Use the test button for this and make sure everyone in your home or business knows what they sound like so that reaction times will be quick in the event of a fire.

Keep them clean and free of greasy build-up and dust, which could affect their performance. You can use a hand-held vacuum for this task. Place this activity on your workplace cleaning schedule to ensure that it is completed on a regular basis.
Are they hard-wired or wireless? When is the last time you replaced the batteries?

Are your alarms interconnected? They should all go off at the same time in the event of a fire, so contact a professional to have this taken care of.

Replace all smoke detectors, including those that use 10-year batteries and hard-wired alarms before they turn 10 years old, or sooner if they don’t respond correctly when tested.

Save and follow manufacturer’s instructions for testing and maintenance of your units.

Your units should be marked by a certified inspection entity.

Here at SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas, we have your safety in mind. Call us at (912) 285-0724 for all your large-scale cleanup projects, we are experts at handling water and fire damage, and mold remediation is one of our specialties.

One Of The Answers To Preventing Water Damage Is Right Over Your Head

5/24/2021 (Permalink)

Call the team at SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas today and let’s talk about your roof (912) 285-0724

Water Damaged Homes In Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas

From high energy bills to extensive water damage or worse, it’s risky to ignore your roof. Here are some things to help you prevent future water damages.

Maintain your roof. Once a year, the cobwebs and dust need to be cleaned from your ventilation and exhaust systems. Caulking around pipes and vents should be done at this time, as well.

Exposed metal will rust and deteriorate, so make sure those areas get painted to protect them. Conducting regular inspections of all parts of your property will aid you in saving time, money, and trouble, and your roof is no exception. It can be easy to forget about it, but a damaged roof can quickly become a huge issue, allowing water to intrude into every part of your home or business and cause water damage.

Trees and shrubs that overhang your building should be trimmed back periodically, especially if they seem weak or have become a nuisance. Falling branches can do damage to a roof during inclement weather. If the tree itself seems unstable, it might be time to have it completely removed for future safety concerns.

Remove leaves, dirt, and debris from your gutters to avoid water damage from backed up rainfall or melting snow and ice. Rain spouts can pull away from the building if they are overloaded or clogged with water and debris, and this can do damage to the corners of the roof and exterior walls. Prevention is always a good idea, and one that can save you time and trouble.

Call a professional contractor if you see curled or buckled shingles during your maintenance inspections. If shingles are missing, that’s something that will need to be repaired right away to avoid leaks and future water damages. Water stains in the attic are a tell tale sign that you might need a new roof; higher-than-average energy bills often tell the same story. If mold has made an appearance, make that call today.
Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we.

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Call the team at SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas today and let’s talk about your roof (912) 285-0724, and we are happy to help.

Bathroom Mold Means A Call To Restoration Professionals

5/12/2021 (Permalink)

Even the cleanest bathroom might have mold.

Your bathroom is one of the most susceptible areas of your house when it comes to mold growth, there is water everywhere in the bathroom. You’ll need to practice preventive measures to ensure that you don’t develop serious mold growth in this most important, and busy, room in your home.

A bathing area has a higher moisture level that most of the other rooms in your house, of course, and surfaces can become moldy quickly if not kept dry. Once mold has established a hold on an area, it can come back even more quickly every time the humidity rises.

Here are some tips to preventing mold:

Paint your bathroom with mold resistant paint. These paints are available at your local hardware or home goods store. This is a great idea for your kitchen as well.
When doing any type of repair or renovation in the bathroom area, check with a professional to find any available products that contain mold-resistant ingredients, such as flooring and drywall, for example.

Avoid standing water in this area of the home. During floor cleaning, use less water than you might otherwise, and always dry off countertops after cleaning, paying special attention to cracks and crevasses.

As with windows in your home, ensure that all frames and weather stripping are in good repair in advance of wetter and more humid weather.
Keep an eye on the cabinets under the sinks and around the toilet for leaks from hoses and pipes leading to walls.

Clean behind and underneath them well on a regular basis, and take a good look while you are completing this task.
Ensure your bathroom area is well-ventilated, you can always use a dehumidifier if necessary.

Keeping mold out of your bathroom will contribute to a pleasant overall experience in your bathing area.

Mold growth can occur in any home, so it’s important to keep an eye out for situations that might promote mold activity. Roof/chimney leaks, wet basements, or condensation from ducts that dampen surrounding insulation are just a few examples of issues that make a house a prime target for mold growth.

If you suspect mold in your home, call SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas to assess the situation. We have the knowledge, tools and track record to effectively remediate mold in your home or business

Restoration Professionals

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas, we have the experience, knowledge, and expertise necessary to help you with any mold remediation. We are also available for cleanup after fire and water damage. Call us today at (912) 285-0724

Cleaning And Deodorizing Your Closet

5/12/2021 (Permalink)

A neat organized closet might mean cleaner smelling air in the home.

Basic Steps

Clear the closet entirely. Removing absolutely everything will give you an excuse to wash all of your clothing and linen, and invariably you will find items that are no longer needed. It’s also a good time to send winter coats and jackets to the dry cleaners in readiness for the coming Fall. Discard broken hangers and any boxes or packaging left behind from the holidays.

Use the power of the sun. Line dry your clothing and linens and bring the wonderful scent of the outdoors back into your closet. Air out any drawers, storage boxes or baskets in the sun, the light and heat bakes away odors and dries musty smells from the humid Georgia weather.

Deodorize with vinegar. Fill up a few small bowls with white vinegar and place them in different spots around your closet interior. Open all the drawers and cabinets, and even the jewelry box. Close the closet door and leave it to sit overnight; it will completely deodorize and freshen your closet space.

Baking soda is great for the carpet. Dust a layer of baking soda on the floor, and leave it for at least 15 minutes. An all-natural deodorizer, it helps to take care of humidity within your closet space that causes a musty smell. Once you vacuum up all the baking soda you are left with a clean and fresh carpet. Don’t miss corners and baseboards! Finish the task with your favorite linen spray. Sachets of herbs such as lavender can be tucked into drawers to release their delicate scents throughout the year. For smelly shoes, a small bag of bamboo activated charcoal inserted into the in-step can take care of that issue.

Cleaning And Indoor Air Quality

Ventilation systems are often the biggest culprit in poor indoor air quality. Make it a priority to inspect the ductwork of your home. If you determine your ductwork needs cleaning call the professionals, SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas.

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

Fast Response If You Need Help

We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster.

Contact the SERVPRO team of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas for help with those big cleanups, such as water damage or fire damage. If you are struggling with mold, call us! (912) 285-0724.

Spring Cleaning Tips That Will Help You Avoid Unwanted Visitors

4/26/2021 (Permalink)

Spring cleaning is a fantastic time to remove habitable conditions from your home from the insects

Every year after winter has come and gone, bugs come out of hibernation and are looking for places to feed and mate. They look for moist, dark places to call home, and your home is often the prime real estate. Whether it’s ants, cockroaches, or other insects, there’s plenty that we can do to help keep them out of our homes.

Cleanliness is The Best Deterrent

Insects like to find dark, cluttered places to call home and multiply. Do your part and make sure that you are on top of your cleaning to make sure that the insects can’t take up residence in your home. Spring cleaning is a fantastic time to remove habitable conditions from your home from the insects, so make sure to stay on top of that.

Always Check the Screen Doors

Another item that often goes overlooked is the screens for windows. It’s important to check for cracks or openings before spring comes around to ensure that no bugs can make a break for your home. If you happen to find any holes in the screen doors, do your part and plan to repair them as soon as possible. The last thing you want is an unintentional bug infestation because one tiny hole was overlooked.

Food Management

One big offense that people sometimes find themselves doing is leaving food out in the open. Don't leave food out on the counter overnight, or leaving food open in the pantry. This is a prime resource for bugs to get inside of your home. The moment that one insect finds some leftovers out in the open or the pantry, more will follow. Make sure to discard or refrigerate any food that is being left out.

Removing Unnecessary Water

Finally, one of the least known components of a bug problem is water. If there is any kind of leak anywhere, or somewhere that has a dark and damp surface, bugs are attracted to it. Do your best to ensure that any leaks are fixed immediately and that standing water is not left out in the open for too long.

Cleaning these areas immediately will persuade the insects to seek refuge elsewhere. This is prime breeding grounds for these bugs, don’t let them have a chance to get comfortable and settle.

As you are cleaning up you may find other damage. Maybe you've had water damage in a part of the house that you don't use often or maybe you found mold. Call SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas (912) 285-0724.

Why Call Us?

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: from initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is critical. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the damage.

Understanding Commercial Cleanup In Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas

4/26/2021 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas we are experienced in commercial cleanup call us (912) 285-0724

Clean Commercial Space 

You always want your commercial property to make the best impression on clients and tenants, which will keep you in business and keep your customers happy.

Studies show that it doesn't take long for our brains to process what we are seeing and form an opinion. Maintaining a clean and organized business space at all times is necessary to ensure that you are creating a good impression.

The floors of business spaces receive a lot of foot traffic, and it doesn’t take long for those floors to go from clean and flawless to grimy and worn. Treat your flooring regularly, whether your commercial floor space is carpeted or covered with vinyl or wood.

When it comes to the carpeting, vacuuming during the work week will take care of the obvious debris and ensure that the carpet will be free from dirt build-up, but for that great first impression, it needs to be more than just debris free - it needs to look fresh and be odor free. A deep cleaning is the answer here. A commercial cleaning service can take care of this project for you in no time, with the proper machinery and product required to get the job done right.

When it comes to a floor with a hard surface, the condition flaws can be even more obvious, and fixing that will entail stripping, sealing, scrubbing, and buffing.

It may be an option to do the cleaning yourself, but when you bring in the pros, SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas, you know it will be done correctly. Our technicians have the training and experience to make sure your commercial job is completed the right way.

Both floors and walls make up the majority of what your clients and visitors will see when they enter your commercial space, and your walls will make the biggest impression of all, since there are four times more of them than the floors, and they are on eye level. Pay extra attention to your wall spaces, making sure artwork is dusted regularly and light scuffing is cleaned and painted over right away.

When it comes to badly damaged and worn walls, a commercial cleaning service can get your space back to where it should be.

Furniture is another area of your business that needs to be kept in tip top shape, looking fresh and smelling great, and this is one of the top projects that commercial cleaning companies are called in to do. They can also be engaged to help when employees change offices, or for post-construction cleanup.

There's never a convenient time for fire or Water damage to strike your commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business.

Commercial Cleanup Professionals

At SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas, we are experienced in commercial cleanup, and projects both large and small that can involve water and fire damages. Call us today at (912) 285-0724.

Do You Run A Clean Business?

4/23/2021 (Permalink)

If your Waycross business is doing well, (and we hope it is) then you are likely always busy. It can be hard to juggle all of the daily requirements, but it looks like you’re doing it, and we bet you know the value of checklists and reminders.

Keeping your business clean and your work environment pleasant and healthy will require a checklist, as well. Here’s a sample of a cleaning checklist you can use for your business:

DAILY

Clean and disinfect all bathrooms, to include: mirror, countertops, sinks, and both the inside AND outside of toilets.

Clean and disinfect doors, door handles, and light switches.

Sweep and mop floors, using a disinfectant liquid. Make sure the mop head gets cleaned and/or replaced regularly.

Clean cigarette trash from provided receptacles.
Clean and polish drinking fountain, if you have one.

Clean and disinfect kitchen area, to include sinks, countertops, and microwave.

Clean all glass, especially entrance doors.

WEEKLY

Wipe down and disinfect work desks and machinery such as phones, keyboards, printers, and filing cabinets.

Sweep and vacuum all offices.

Dust accessible window sills and baseboards.

Dust artwork, framed certifications and other such decorations.

Clean out the refrigerator and make sure all leftover food is discarded before the weekend begins.

Sweep exterior entrances, both front and back, and shake out or vacuum entryway rugs or welcome mats.

Make sure break and waiting areas are clean and presentable.

Remove trash and debris from parking areas.

MONTHLY

Inspect roofing, exterior doors and windows, and parking areas for potential problems and maintenance needs.

Trim back large bushes and tree limbs on your property ahead of wet/windy weather.

Do a quick inspection of fencing and entrance gates.

Schedule periodic maintenance of HVAC systems and duct work.

Keep all entry and parking area lighting in working area.

Maintain your business signage so that customers can easily find you, and so that your business projects a competent image.

Here at SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas, we are always ready to help you handle all your cleaning and maintenance projects, both large and small. Call us at (912) 285-0724 to schedule an inspection, or for cleanup assistance after water or fire damage. We are also experienced in mold remediation.

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: from initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

If You Suspect Mold Don't Hesitate To Call SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas

4/23/2021 (Permalink)

If you think there is a possibility of mold in your home or business call the trained, experienced team at SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas

The idea of mold in your home can be frightening. Mold can be beneficial when it comes to cheese and medicines, and it plays a necessary part in the circle of life as it also decomposes nature’s organic matter.

The spores spread easily and can never be completely eradicated once a colony has been started. It can grow anywhere: on carpet, paper, inside walls, and on food.

Here are three tips to prevent mold growth in your home

Identify problem areas and correct immediately:

Leaks and flooding aftermath need to be cleaned up and dried as soon as possible. Keep an eye open for stains on ceilings and walls so that you can identify leaks that are happening behind the scenes. Keep rain gutters clean and in good repair, and make sure water is properly diverted from foundations and low-lying areas.

Mold grows where it’s wet and can take over within 24-48 hours. Leaving wet items lying around the house can even be a cause, so immediately hang up items that need to be dried, such as towels and bathing suits.

Ventilate your living spaces well:

Make sure your living areas are properly ventilated. Any appliances that produce moisture need to be vented to the outdoors. Using a dehumidifier is always a good idea, today’s energy-efficient homes can actually hold moisture indoors.

Purchase and use mold-resistant materials and products:

When doing repairs or renovations, use mold-resistant products such as drywall or sheetrock. Many paints on the market today contain mold inhibitors, as well. These paints are especially good for use in bathrooms and laundry areas, where the air stays moist most of the time.

Our Technicians Have The Right Training

If you think you might have mold, it's time to bring in experts. SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas has trained, experienced technicians. SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.

If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.

Specialized Equipment And Techniques

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas specializes in mold cleanup and restoration, in fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business. Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.

In the event that a mold problem has developed in your home or business, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas for immediate assistance (912) 285-0724.

A Kitchen Fire Can Be A Dangerous Mess

4/22/2021 (Permalink)

Cleaning Up After A Kitchen Fire 

With one small mishap, cooking in your kitchen can lead to disaster, and all fire safety measures can go out the window. A small bit of grease can escape a pan somewhere, and a fire can ignite into something devastating. Soot and ash now cover everything, and your kitchen has fire damage as well as material burns.

Cleaning will no doubt become a hassle, but where to begin?

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas has some tips for you on how to clean after a kitchen fire, especially if there is some serious fire damage.

Put on Protective Gear

After the fire has been contained, soot residue will no doubt cover everything in the kitchen. This greasy film is made of carbon-based particles that can be harmful, especially for the lungs and the eyes. Make sure to wear protective gear, such as rubber gloves, when cleaning the kitchen.

Open Windows

While cleaning, it's important to open windows and doors to help ventilate the kitchen. By creating strong currents, you can push out the bad air, and let fresh air come in while you are cleaning. Avoid running the AC after the kitchen fire, as the contaminated air can circulate throughout the house and cause more problems.

Have Patience When Cleaning

One of the biggest problems with soot is that it is difficult to remove from surfaces. Don’t expect the greasy film to be removed after one cleaning, as it will take multiple attempts to get affected areas back to normal. A good tip is to clean an area, let it dry, then come back and repeat the process until the surface is back to semi-normal.

Odor Removal

A burning smell will stink up the house after a kitchen fire, creating an unpleasant atmosphere in your home. Use air fresheners, candles, coffee containers and more to help mitigate the smell. The sooner the smell can dissipate, the easier your job will be cleaning the kitchen without having to dodge the smell by holding your breath.

Fire Safety is Important

We here at SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas believe that fire safety is of utmost importance. A fire can break out at any time, causing serious damage to any environment. Do all you can to take preventive measures against fire hazards. If one does break out in your kitchen, follow these tips for an easier time managing the damage.

If you have fire damage, give us a call today (912) 285-0724.

Commercial Cleaning Is More Important To Your Business Than You Might Think

4/20/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Waycross/ Hinesville & Douglas specializes in commercial restoration and cleaning.

There are many things to consider daily when running a business. One that is sometimes overlooked is a clean work area. That might not sound like a big deal, but a clean business sends a powerful message to clients.

A clean and tidy workplace:

Reduces the need to replace supplies and equipment as often. When dirt and grime are left to build up, that can cause unnecessary wear-and-tear on your office equipment. The keyboard can get sticky, countertops and flooring can become stained and torn, and office furniture left uncared for is unsightly, sending the wrong message to everyone.

Regular cleaning and maintenance will save you costly replacements of these items. SERVPRO of Waycross/ Hinesville & Douglas specializes in commercial restoration and cleaning.

Can help you find and fix the damage before it becomes a problem. Besides making your surroundings look good, regular deep cleaning can help you catch problems you might not notice otherwise. Finding water damage and mold growth from leaks are much easier to deal with at the beginning of the issue. The longer damage from a water leak goes on, the higher the costs of repairs are going to be. 

SERVPRO of Waycross/ Hinesville & Douglas is your local specialist for mold remediation.

When your workers are happy and productive, your customers and clients will know it, and will positively affect your business with repeat sales and referrals.

Gives your business an image and reputation of trustworthiness. If your business looks like it is falling into disrepair, most people will assume it’s failing; how can they trust you to care about their concerns if you don’t care about your own?

Water-stained walls, unkempt furniture and machinery, dusty light fixtures; all these things will give your prospective customers the idea that you just don’t care. Not the best way to get people to come back.

Call SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas today for help with all your commercial cleaning needs.

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas has been a trusted leader in the restoration industry since 1992. Give us a call if you have damage or questions (912) 285-0724.

The Next Few Months Of Georgia Weather Could Be Tough On Your Home

4/9/2021 (Permalink)

The SERVPRO team of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas is standing by (912) 285-0724

Most people dream of having a beach home, and maybe you are one of the lucky ones to have achieved that dream. The view of the waves and the dunes are always amazing and a welcome sight at the end of the day, and the fact that you can walk down to the water in seconds is always something you truly treasure.

There are those times of the year when a beach house can be a worry. Summers are idyllic, but they also come with stormy weather. To be prepared, you will need to inspect your property regularly and look for trouble spots before those stormy times come.

Over time, every house experiences damage from weather, and you want to make sure there are no maintenance projects left unattended to. Loose siding or shutters? Do your windows close properly, and do all exterior doors fit as they should? Can those shutters close the way they should to protect your windows during a storm? Pay special attention to your roof; it will bear the brunt of bad weather. Strong winds can make short work of those parts of your home that are not in as good repair as they should be.

The landscaping at a beach home is usually tropical in nature, which can often mean palm trees, and they can get pretty tall! Have your trees and other vegetation been trimmed appropriately and removed if they are not doing well? During a storm, a lot of damage can be done by flying branches and palm fronds, or at the very least, they can leave you a really big mess to clean up.

Salt air is rough on beach-side houses and buildings, so keeping an eye on your property for damage of this type is a smart idea. Rotting wood on your home or property can become a hazard during storms if not cared for since flying debris can break windows and severely damage cars left on the street.

When Storms Cause Damage

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas 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.

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.

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

The SERVPRO team of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas is standing by to work with you in preventing summer storm damage. From fire and water damage to mold remediation, we are here to help. Contact us at (912) 285-0724.

When Is The Last Time You Inspected Your Storage Unit?

4/3/2021 (Permalink)

If you haven't checked your business or personal storage in a while, it might be time. Avoid long term damage to your items in storage.

Business Equipment Or Personal Storage Can Be Damaged

Many of us have a storage unit of some kind. Whether that unit is at your home or whether it is a unit you rent from a storage facility, the items you keep there are obviously important to you. Keeping your storage unit clean and odor free is therefore also important so that your property can remain in good condition and odor-free while you store it for future use.

If you are keeping furniture in your unit, it’s important to keep items off of the ground and cover those items that are upholstered in cloth or leather to guard against leaks, dust, and mildew. Items made of wood should also be covered for these same reasons. Boxes should be sealed with packing tape, as well, and covering them with a tarp might not be a bad idea. Keeping your property dry in the event of a leak or flood will help to prevent moisture and mold growth.

Going in periodically and rotating your items to check the condition of your items can save you time and money later. You can take time to sweep out any accumulations of dirty and cobwebs, and dust items as well.

A wet/dry vacuum cleaner can make short work of this chore, and the walls of the unit itself can be cleaned to remove dust and spiders, should there be any. In a climate-controlled unit this is less likely, but for those spaces that are standard, more care must be exercised to keep your important items safe, mold free and clean.

If you see that any of your property might be suffering, you can take steps to get it covered for the future. Bubble wrap and plastic can be used to keep these items safe. Documents and pictures should be sealed, as well.

Using deodorizer in your unit and on those items that absorb odors can be very helpful, so that upon removal those pieces will be usable right away, when it is time to put them into use again.

Check for water damage on a regular basis. The management at your storage facility should be aware of any leaks or problems from the outside, but they won’t know about your unit specifically unless you let them know.

If there is standing water in your unit, let them know immediately and take steps to remove that water to avoid any more damages and possible mold growth. The company can make arrangements with you to move your property to another, safer, location.

A few minutes of your time and care on a regular basis can make a big difference when it’s time to bring your property out of storage and into the light of day.

If you discover water damage in your home or business give SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas a call.

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is important. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

The technicians of SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas, are experienced when it comes to water damage, fire damage, mold remediation, and all of your emergency service needs.

If your business has received water damage of any kind, or any other damage, you can reach us at (912) 285-0724.

Avoiding Water Damage In Your Home Or Business

3/25/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies (912) 285-0724.

Your kitchen area, in either your home or your business, is one of the main places where damage from water can occur, and then mold growth becomes a concern. Your kitchen is a place that you visit regularly; and sometimes you may miss things because it is such a familiar place. It is important to check your kitchen area periodically for leaks and water damage around and underneath sinks and appliances to prevent an issue before it happens.

Some homes and workplaces have water heaters near the kitchen, and these are known to leak as well as they age, so keeping a careful eye on this appliance especially can save you a lot of trouble.

You can follow these tips to help you keep on top of any damage to your kitchen from excess moisture and smaller water issues:

Check appliances, hoses and piping for damage regularly.

If you smell the musty odor that is a telltale sign of a leak, find the source right away.

Clean up all spills as soon as they occur.

If you live in an area with high humidity, using a dehumidifier can greatly reduce damage from excess moisture in the air.

Wipe down and dry the walls in your kitchen regularly to avoid a mold colony establishing itself.

Scrub and dry your sink thoroughly, especially around the faucet and knobs; corrosion can make it necessary to replace these items much sooner than you planned if they are not kept clean.

In the event that you do suffer larger-scale water damage in the kitchen of your home or business:

Remove all furniture from the area.

You may need to move large appliances away from the walls to remove moisture or standing water.

Soak up all excess water immediately.

Fans and dehumidifiers will be a great help in drying the area completely.

Call a professional cleanup up company if the task is beyond your expertise.

Mold remediation is a job for a professional.
SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is very important. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

Here at SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas, we are experienced and always ready to help with cleanup after water and fire damage and are mold remediation experts. Call us at (912) 285-0724.

Fire Prevention For Your Waycross, Hinesville or Douglas Business

3/15/2021 (Permalink)

Have your sprinkler system tested and serviced every 12 months or less by a licensed fire sprinkler company.

Preventing Fires In Your Business

Your livelihood depends on your business, and you will want to protect it from disasters, such as flood and fire damage. Being prepared for any kind of disaster is always a good idea. Today we would like to share some tips that can help you keep your property prepared in the event of fire damage:

Take steps to ensure that the address numbers for your building or suite are highly visible, enabling emergency responders to easily find your location quickly, in the event of a fire or other emergency. Numbers should contrast with the background used, such as black on white, while the numerals should be no less than six inches in height.

Fire extinguishers should be no more than 75 feet from all work areas for easy access, and they should be mounted in a highly visible spot. Make sure your extinguishers are inspected and serviced at least once a year by a licensed fire extinguisher company.

Exits need to be clearly marked with EXIT signage that is illuminated at all times with a battery backup for power outages. Emergency lighting should be kept in working order, and the exit areas and spaces around the building outside kept clear of debris and plant material, reducing the fire risk outdoors as well.

Stored materials need to be stacked at least two feet below the ceiling and be orderly. For buildings with an automatic sprinkler system, 18 inches of clearance is required, allowing smoke to collect up high, which gives people adequate time to exit and the sprinklers a clear area for their spray pattern. These instructions have been put in place by area fire personnel, and if not followed, can result in fines.

Electrical outlets should have no more than one item per outlet plugged into them, which may include a power strip with a circuit breaker. All electrical cords should be kept in good repair and replaced when needed.

Trash receptacles need to be kept at least five feet away from combustible roofs, windows, and entryways, and not stored in the path of exits.

Have your sprinkler system tested and serviced every 12 months or less by a licensed fire sprinkler company. This practice should also be used for your fire alarm system.

If your business involves cooking foods, make sure your stove hood has been cleaned at least once every year to prevent excessive grease buildup. Ceiling exhaust fans and bathroom heater/light/fan combinations can also be a risk due to a buildup of dust and grease, resulting in increased operating temperatures.

Make sure your local fire department has your valid contact information on file for your business.

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions. We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage. We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

The SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas team is experienced in cleanup projects after fires both large and small. In the event of water damage we’re ready to help, as well! Call us today at (912) 285-0724.

Planning Ahead For Storms On The Way

3/10/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville and Douglas is ready to help when storms hit (912) 285-0724

South Georgia Storm Damage

Weather in the South is like no where else in America. Warm, moist air and dry cold currents collide, causing unpredictable weather conditions. The American South can see everything from tornadoes to snow, a rainy deluge and flash flooding to warm, sunny days, all in the same month. To long-time residents of Waycross, I’m sure this sounds familiar.

As a business owner/operator in south Georgia, you have to be ready for anything when it comes to the weather this time of year. A couple of things to think about as winter hits the Waycross area:

An inspection of your commercial site is a good idea to conduct before inclement weather hits. A leaky roof or windows can cause big problems during extreme conditions such as a snow storm or heavy rains. Do all exterior doors fit correctly? Is weather-stripping in good condition? Expensive machinery and supplies can be at risk if what’s outside can get inside.

Communication

Your most valuable asset is your people. Yourself, your employees, clients and family. Do you have a system in place that will help you to get information to everyone in case of a weather emergency? Who is in charge of handling your social media to let the public know of business closures? If an employee is not able to get in to work, do they have contact information so they can let someone know? Most of us use our cell phones to communicate, but in the case of extreme weather, your cell phone service could be at risk. You might consider installing a good old-fashioned landline, just in case. If you or your employees get stuck at work, families will worry, so it’s vital that lines of communication stay open.

Make sure your place of business is stocked with drinking water, snacks, and an up-to-date first aid kit, just in case. A backup power generator can be an important part of your safety plan, in case electric or gas is lost.

Planning

Developing a plan to keep your business’s production in place is important, as well. If most of your business is conducted online, do you have a process in place to keep that moving no matter the circumstances? Is every employee well-trained in that process and able to jump right in if circumstances demand it? Just a few days of interrupted production can be very costly, indeed. Does your business use machinery that can be damaged by bad weather and water damage? Assess that situation and take steps to make sure you and your team know what needs to be done to keep that machinery from harm. Are you storing product that is set-aside for shipping? Take time to think about different weather scenarios. If something unexpected were to happen, are you ready?

The SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville and Douglas team, are experts when it comes to water damage, fire damage, mold remediation, and all of your emergency service needs. If your business has received water damage of any kind, or any other such emergency, you can reach us at (912) 285-0724

Unexpected Water Damage Could Be Much Worse If Someone Wasn't Ready To Help

2/11/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas is ready to help if you have water damage in your home or business.

Water damage is not something we are usually expecting to happen. Often it is due to human error such as forgetting to turn off a faucet or neglecting to replace a hose with a slight leak.

It can be due to severe weather or circumstances out of our control, such as a broken city water pipe underground, and these types of water damage can cause a lot of trouble and, needless to say, money.

When dealing with any type of water damage situation, whether large or small, there are a few steps you can follow that will help you handle the issue:

Do as thorough an assessment as possible of all property that has sustained damages from the event. Look behind appliances, lift up carpeting, check the crawl spaces and make sure you are using a light source that allows you to see exactly what is going on.

Take pictures of all your findings, no matter how small. Once things dry out, you will have no evidence of what has happened, and that might be a problem.

Contact government officials if the damage comes from a city or county source and give them as much information as you can. Stay onsite to walk them through your property if at all possible and share pictures with them if they ask.

Get in touch with your homeowner’s insurance company and send them all the documentation and images that you have. Be clear and precise, describing every instance of damage thoroughly and completely for the future.

Once all the information has been shared with the above entities, make arrangements to allow your property to dry out completely. Keep an eye open for mold colonies taking hold.

Using fans and dehumidifiers in closed spaces can be a real help.

If you find property that is damaged beyond repair, or will not dry out properly, get rid of it immediately, to avoid mold from taking hold.

Call us here at SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas (219) 285-0724 for all your large-scale cleanup projects. We’re experts at handling water and fire damage, and mold remediation is one of our specialties.

Water Damage In Your Attic Can Be A Big Problem If Not Caught In Time

2/5/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Waycross/ Hinesville / Douglas. If you suspect water damage Call us at (912) 285-0724

Attics can be a problem spot when it comes to water damage. It’s one of the main places where damage from heavy rainfall can occur, and then mold becomes a concern.

Your attic is one of the places in your home that you won’t visit regularly. It’s important to check your attic periodically for leaks and water damage, especially after winter or other rainy seasons, according to your geographic location.

Some houses have water heaters in the attic, and they are known to leak as they age. Your attic will also take the brunt of storms, right along with your roof. When the roof sustains damage such as loose or missing roofing material, you will probably see water stains in the attic, letting you know a problem is developing.

Follow these tips to help you keep on top of any damage to your attic:

Check your attic for damage regularly. It’s important to assess your attic space as often as you check other parts of your home. You’ll want to make sure this area isn’t holding water, which can spread to problems with your interior ceilings.

Check your roofing after severe weather. It’s crucial to check all roofing after a strong storm and/or high winds to ensure it is still intact.

Make sure your water heater is working properly. If your water heater isn’t functioning properly or if it has seen better days, have it checked by a professional.

A malfunctioning water heater can flood your home and cause major property damage.

Bring In The SERVPRO Experts

If you discover water damage in your attic or anywhere around your home call the trained, certified professionals at SERVPRO of Waycross/ Hinesville / Douglas.

We are always ready to help with cleanup after water and fire damage and are experts in the area of mold remediation. Call us at (912) 285-0724

What To Do In Case Of A Kitchen Fire

1/29/2021 (Permalink)

A kitchen fire can happen quickly and without warning. If that happens, you will need to act fast to keep the fire from getting out of control. Take stock of what kind of fire you have and where it is.

Here are a few tips on what to do:

If it’s a fire in the oven, close the door immediately and turn off the oven. Leave the door closed. Lack of oxygen will suffocate the flames.

If the oven continues to smoke and you think the fire may have continued, call the fire department right away.

When it is a fire in a cooking pan or pot, use your oven mitt to put the lid on right away, and move it off the burner. Turn off the stove and wait for the lack of oxygen to stop the flames inside your pot.

If you are not able to safely put the lid on the flaming pan, or if there is no lid readily available, use your fire extinguisher. Always aim at the base of the fire, not the flames themselves.
Never use water to put out a grease fire.

Water repels grease and can spread the fire by splattering the grease.

Try one of these methods instead:
If the fire is small, put on the lid and turn off the burner.

Throw lots of baking soda on it. Do not use flour; it can explode or make the fire even worse.
Smother the fire with a wet towel or other large, wet cloth.

Use a fire extinguisher.

Swatting the fire with a towel, apron, or other material is likely to fan the flames and spread the fire.

If the fire is spreading and you don’t have control, get every person and pet out of the house and call 911!

For cleanup after any type of fire, SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas is always ready to help. Call us at (912) 307 3552.
SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas has trained technicians ready to help.

Tips For Before And After The Storm

1/8/2021 (Permalink)

When severe storms leave damage behind call the professionals at SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas (912)285-0724

Storm Damage in Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas

Storms sometimes strike unexpectedly. Make sure your family and your home are ready for the next storm. Here are some tips from the National Weather Service on preparing for a storm.

Check the forecast regularly to see if you’re at risk for severe thunderstorms. Listen to local news or a NOAA Weather.

Radio to stay informed about watches and warnings. Preparation is key to staying safe and minimizing impacts.

Sign Up for Notifications

Know how your community sends warnings. Check media severe thunderstorm alerts available in your area.

Create a Communications Plan

Have a family plan that includes an emergency meeting place. Pick a safe room in your home
such as a basement, storm cellar or an interior room on the lowest floor with no windows.

Practice Your Plan

Conduct a family severe thunderstorm drill
regularly so everyone knows what to do if damaging wind or large hail is approaching.

Don’t forget pets.

Prepare Your Home

Keep trees trimmed near your house. If you
have time before severe weather hits, put away loose objects, close windows and doors, and move valuable objects inside or under a sturdy
structure.

Help Your Neighbor

Take CPR training so you can help if
someone is hurt during severe weather. Conduct a drill with elderly or disabled neighbors.

After The Storm

If your home or business has storm damage call the trained, certified experts, SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas are available 24 hours a day 7 days a week (912)285-0724.

Where Is Water Damage Most Likely In Your Waycross Home?

11/30/2020 (Permalink)

If your Waycross property has been damaged by water, call us today SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas (912) 452 2170

Flooding is inconvenient, but can be a hazardous situation. It can ruin your possessions and even affect the structure of your home or business. Contacting a professional water restoration company can greatly minimize any damages. SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas is able to complete all the necessary repairs in a timely and efficient manner.

While flooding often can’t be predicted, educating yourself on the most common areas to flood with help you be prepared to handle such an event, and even to prevent it! Some areas of your home or business are going to be more apt to experience water damage than others, such as rooms that have sinks, as in kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry areas; low-lying areas like basements and cellars are also at risk.

Here is a list of the three most common areas to suffer from water damage:

BATHROOMS

The bathroom is possibly the most likely area to flood, and probably the most obvious. A bathroom is all about water, Sinks, toilets, showers and tubs all involve water, and are all contained in one small area and connected to pipes. Pipes that can be a source of problems if they become clogged, leak, or wear out. Human error can create an issue as well. You’ve probably heard stories about the bath that got started and was forgotten.

BASEMENTS

Basements and cellars are the lowest part of a house or building, and so have a number of easy entry points for water. If there is heavy rainfall during inclement weather, flooding can cause serious problems.

The pipes for the bath and kitchen areas run through the basement, and sump pumps and drains are often found there. In addition, many homes have their water heating unit and laundry facilities in their basement or cellar. Occasionally inspect for cracks in the foundation, ceiling, and walls of these areas.

ATTICS AND ROOFS

A damaged roof, either from weather or fire, is susceptible to water damage. A small leak can turn into a big problem.

Our team of professionals here at SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas is experienced in repairs and cleanup from damages caused by water, fire, and mold. Call us at (912) 452 2170,  SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas 

Preventing Water Damage Around The House

11/10/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage in your household can be frustrating to repair. Water can get into some of the most unexpected places and cause damage to your floors, walls, and foundation.

There are ways to prepare your household against water damage and the onset of mold. We at SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas, we have compiled some tips for you to use to protect your home and keep costs of repairs down in the event of flooding or other types of water issues.

Regular Outdoor Hose Maintenance

Over time, water that stands in a hose has the potential to freeze and block passage. What this can do is create pressure and cause the hose to burst, damaging floors, foundation, and walls with water. One of the best things to do in this scenario is to regularly check your hoses throughout your home and maintenance them when needed. This will prevent any surprise buildups over time.

Never Let a Leak Go Unchecked

Procrastination can be a killer in some situations, especially when it comes to your home and its maintenance. If you ever find a leak at some point inside of your home, be sure to fix it in a timely manner. If you fail to do this, then you will find yourself with mold, dry rot, or worse inside of your home. Don’t let this one sit: fix it as soon as possible.

The Washing Machine

One of the biggest contributors to indoor water problems is the washing machine. If the machine is outdated and leaking, it’s in your best interest to replace it as soon as possible. While there are many mold remediation techniques, the more you wait and let water build up, the harder the remediation process will be. If you know something is wrong, don’t wait! You owe it to yourself and your home to fix right away.

You Have the Power to Protect Your Home

No matter how much we put into our homes to prevent damage from water, it’s bound to happen at some points. If you see a leak, have a feeling a pipe is blocked or something doesn’t seem right, it’s best to fix it right away.

The sooner you do it, the more money you’ll save in the long run. If you do encounter water damage in your home, contact SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas to help get your home back in order fast.

Have Questions? Call Us Today – (912) 285-0724

Storm Tips For Before, During, And After The Storm

9/14/2020 (Permalink)

As a locally owned and operated business we are dedicated to serving our community and helping you when disaster strikes.

Hurricane season is a time to be prepared. Here at SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas, we want you to be safe as you prepare for storm damage. Here are some guidelines so that you can be ready if and when a hurricane hits the area.

Before a hurricane:

Sign up for local alerts and warnings and monitor local news and weather reports.

Prepare for a possible evacuation by testing your emergency communication plan with your loved ones.

Make sure everyone knows your evacuation routes and knows where to stay.

Stock emergency supplies and pack to-go bags.
Collect all important documents and safeguard them.

During a hurricane:

Follow all guidance from your local authorities. If you are advised to evacuate, grab your to-go bag and your loved ones and leave immediately.
Stay away from windows and seek shelter on the lowest level in an interior room, moving to higher ground if there is flooding or a flood warning or other storm damage.

Never walk or drive on flooded roads or through water.

Call 9-1-1 if your life is threatened.

After a hurricane:

Only return to the area of your home when authorities say it is safe to do so.

Do not enter damaged buildings until they are inspected by qualified professionals.

Never walk or drive on flooded roads or through floodwaters.

Keep an eye out for downed trees, power lines, and poles or other forms of dangerous storm damage.

Protect your hands and feet with gloves and sturdy shoes.

When cleaning up, do not remove heavy debris by yourself.

Do not drink tap water until local authorities have approved its safety.

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas are here for cleanup after flooding and fire and are mold remediation experts. If you experience fire or water damage, call us at (912) 248 2498

Protecting Commercial Property During Storms

9/9/2020 (Permalink)

Cleaning and restoring commercial properties require a unique blend of training, experience, and equipment.

While there is not much you can do to prevent total destruction from the strongest hurricanes, there are some ways you can strengthen your commercial property against the weaker ones.

Fortified Doors

Metal doors that can pass particular impact testing earn a seal of approval by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Though intended to be used in safe rooms or shelters, they would also fortify businesses in hurricane-prone areas.

Fortified Windows

A  window shutter system has a four-sided window frame with a 16-gauge steel door that sits on the outside of the window. A cheaper way to fortify windows is to snap special serrated-edged clips onto the edges of plywood you want to cover windows with.

Fortified Garage Door

Garages are where the wind enters business and blows off their roofs. A highly rated windowless narrow garage door is the safest. They can be reinforced with Florida Building Code-approved vertical bracing that is made of aircraft-grade aluminum and anchors into both the wall that is over the door and on the floor.

Fortified Roof

You can reinforce a roof with galvanized-steel hurricane clips that range from 300 to 1,500 pounds. They strengthen the connection between the trusses or rafters and the top plate.

Concrete Wall Blocks

Insulating concrete forms (ICF) are interlocking blocks that are made of expanded polystyrene foam. They are held into place by connectors, reinforced with rebar framework within the spaces, and filled with concrete. They fire-resistant, insulated, and airtight.

Concrete Cloth

This is a cement-impregnated fabric that inflates and hardens into concrete after it is made wet. The military makes shelters with it. It is also used to shield buildings, stop bullets, protect slopes, create walls in mines, and to line ditches. 

Safe Space

Although an underground shelter is the safest place to be unless it floods, a professionally installed above-ground safe room can protect a family.

After the hurricane is over call SERVPRO of Waycross / Hinesville / Douglas (912) 285-0724 if you have storm damage to your business.

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas has the resources and expertise to give you excellent results while minimizing the disruption to your clients. We can help make it “Like it never even happened.”

19 Named Storms for Hurricane Season 2020

6/26/2020 (Permalink)

THE NOAA predicts 13 to 19 named storms for the Atlantic this year. That being said the NOAA is predicting that there is a 60% chance for an above-normal hurricane season with a 30% chance that the hurricane season will be average. 

With a possibility for an above-average hurricane season - SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas is here to remind you to reevaluate your Hurricane Preparedness Kits. When reevaluating your kit be sure to have a face mask and hand sanitizer to keep COVID 19 in mind!

“Social distancing and other CDC guidance to keep you safe from COVID-19 may impact the disaster preparedness plan you had in place, including what is in your go-kit, evacuation routes, shelters and more. With tornado season at its peak, hurricane season around the corner, and flooding, earthquakes and wildfires a risk year-round, it is time to revise and adjust your emergency plan now,” said Carlos Castillo, acting deputy administrator for resilience at FEMA.

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas is here to help you prepare for whatever happens! Stay informed by following US National Weather Service on Facebook!

Learn more about SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas storm services here!

Preparing for Hurricane Season 2020

6/24/2020 (Permalink)

Hurricane season for the Atlantic begins June 1 and runs through November 30. Hurricanes can be life-threatening as well as cause serious property-threatening hazards such as flooding, storm surge, high winds, and tornadoes. Preparation is the best protection against the danger of a hurricane. 

1. Plan an evacuation route and your emergency plan(https://www.ready.gov/make-a-plan)
2. Take an inventory of your property
3. Hurricane Prep Kit https://www.ready.gov/build-a-kit

A basic disaster supply kit includes 

• 1 gallon of water per person
• non-perishable food to last three days
• a battery-powered or hand-cranked radio, 
• flashlight + extra batteries
• first aid kit
• whistle to signal for help
• moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation
• Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
• Can opener for food
• Local maps

When a hurricane strikes, SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas is ready to take action to restore your home or business and to prevent further damage. If you need help after a hurricane, count on SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Get Help Cleaning Your Biohazard Disaster!

6/22/2020 (Permalink)

Did you know that SERVPRO is not only the industry leader in fire and water restoration but also offers a fast and reliable biohazard and crime scene clean up service for commercial properties?

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas is equipped with the necessary safety equipment and cleaning products to help return a property to a clean and safe environment. SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas has experienced technicians to effectively remove any biohazardous substances as well as properly dispose of biohazardous waste according to OSHA, EPA, and State of Georgia health regulations.

What is considered Biohazardous:

- Bloodborne Pathogens
- Methamphetamine Labs
- Crime Scene Residues
- Arson
- Vandalism
- Sewage Backups
- Black Water Intrusions
- Mold Mitigation and Remediation

Why should you call a professional to clean up biohazardous materials?

Exposure to biological and chemical contaminants can pose serious health consequences for anyone coming in contact with biohazardous material. A failure to properly handle and safely remove hazardous substances can contribute to unhealthy and even dangerous environments.

If your commercial property experiences a biohazardous waste situation do not hesitate to call SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas. We are always here to help and to keep you safe.

Why Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned

6/13/2020 (Permalink)

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned offers several benefits:

• Custom Cleaning Plans – from proactive cleaning programs to suspected/confirmed COVID cleanings are based on your business type, square footage, high-frequency touchpoints, foot traffic, congestion areas, public spaces, and more
• Visual Relief to customers and employees – the Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned seal ensures them the space has been cleaned
• High Standard of Cleaning
• Clean bacteria and other microbes
• Sanitize soft and porous surfaces
• Disinfect hard and high-touch surfaces
• Transparent + Fair Pricing

The After Perks:

• After being cleaned – guest-accessible hygiene products, signage
• Technology – digital emblems to share on your website, on your social media

Learn how to take the proactive steps in getting your school, church, or business Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned and give everyone a peace of mind for when they get back to the new normal!

Give us a call to schedule a consultation! 

(912)285-0724

Lightning Damage Call SERVPRO!

6/10/2020 (Permalink)

Lightning strikes can cause significant damage to your home or business. Often you will not see signs of the damage at first due to the damage hiding in attics or inside walls. We suggest that after lightning strikes your home that you call the fire department immediately even if you do not see flames or smoke. It is also good to remember to call your electrician after a lightning strike to run an electrical diagnostic test.

According to the NFPA from 2007-2011 the U.S. Local fire departments responded to an estimated average of 22,600 fires per year that were started by lightning.

Lighting bolts are estimated to reach up to 50,000 degrees.

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas has experienced the aftermath of a fire caused by a lightning strike. The odor, the charred insulation within the attic or walls. SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas has an experienced team to handle any size fire or water loss.

If your home has been hit by lighting count on SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas to make the fire damage “Like it never even happened.”

The Science of Drying Your Water Damage

6/5/2020 (Permalink)

Bet you didn’t know that SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas has a team of scientists! There is a specific science behind drying out water damages. Our SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas team has the knowledge of psychrometrics. Psychrometrics is essential to restoring a water damaged structure to preloss condition. While your initial reaction may be to grab a few towels to mop up the mess and place fan or two around the damaged area, the team at SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas are trained in the science of drying and follow strict industry-approved standards to help lower the chances of any secondary damages.

If your business suffers a water damage SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas will:

- Inspect and detect every area that is holding moisture
- Measure how much moisture is in the materials, as well as how each material is drying.
- Speed up Mother Nature by using professional drying equipment. 

What do we mean when we say “speed up Mother Nature”?

A wet building can often dry naturally, but often takes to long and secondary damages occur while the natural dry out process occurs. SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas has the drying equipment to speed up the drying process to minimize and eliminate further damages in the home.


Need help after water damage? Contact SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas today.

Get Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned

6/5/2020 (Permalink)

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is a comprehensive cleaning program that goes far beyond janitorial or carpet cleaning. The program was created from protocols and practices suggested by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) using the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-registered professional cleaning and disinfecting products.

The Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned process is grounded in three unique "Cs":

• Consult – A SERVPRO representative will develop a tailored cleaning program to meet your needs.
• Clean – SERVPRO will deliver both proactive and COVID-19 emergency response cleaning.
• Certify – SERVPRO will certify that your business has been cleaned and sanitized for your employees and customers.

Safety is always a top priority for SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas crews have extensive training on the proper use of disinfectants and personal protective equipment, and the proper procedures to give your employees and your customers' peace of mind.

Call to get Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned today!

(912)285-0724

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned – a defensive cleaning program

5/14/2020 (Permalink)

Let us help you get back to business

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

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

Extensive training and specialized products

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

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

3 C’s – Consult, Clean, and Certify

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

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

Call today for a Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation

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

Call SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas today at  912-285-0724 for your Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation.

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

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

SERVPRO Gives Back During COVID-19

5/14/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas were happy to help local first responders in Ware County by sanitizing emergency response vehicles.

Our first responders are always on the front line responding to calls and coming into contact with a lot of unknown. To give them peace of mind SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas offered a free wipe down and sanitation service of all emergency vehicles.

Our team was able to wipe down the interior of fire trucks, police cars, and ambulances. It was such a small act- but we hope the first responders know how much we care and respect them being on the front lines for us every day. 

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas is a proud community partner and stands ready to assist you by proactively cleaning against COVID-19. Ask how SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas can assist you - (912)285-0724

Preparing Your Business for Tornado Season

4/26/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is here to help.

Spring brings lots of changes, especially with the weather. A sunny week can be followed by a week of storms, and you will want to be prepared for all possible scenarios.

You will want to do an assessment of your property before heavy rains:

1. Proper Drainage

2. Roof Leaks

3. Window and Door Leaks

Make arrangements as soon as possible for repairs to be done before another storm passes through town.

Thunderstorms cause most of the severe spring weather. Lightning, flooding, and other types of activity will be a part of your spring weather experience, which is caused when warm, moist air collides with cool, dry air. Planning ahead makes sense so that your property and the people you care about can avoid injury and damages.

Here are some things to think about or to have on hand for storms:

• A battery-operated flashlight, with extra batteries.
• A battery-operated, NOAA Weather Radio.
• An emergency evacuation plan. Have a map with an escape route in case of a flood. Make sure everyone knows where to go in the event of a disaster.
• Make sure everyone has a list of updated emergency contact information.
• A First Aid Kit

Planning ahead before wet weather hits is always a good idea. Call us here at SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas if your property sustains water or flood damage. 

(912)285-0724

Helping You Get Prepared and Ready For Whatever Happens

4/26/2020 (Permalink)

Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can prevent further damage after a fire or water damage.

The SERVPRO - Emergency Ready Plan is a mobile app that is perfect for homeowners, property managers, and business owners!

The Ready Plan app allows you to create individual emergency ready profiles for all of your properties. Which in turn saves you time after a disaster. By completing the Emergency Ready Plan app you can request restoration and remediation services by clicking one button within the app. One button and the fire damage and water restoration professionals are on there a way to you- and you are back to breathing a sigh of relief knowing that your property is in trusted hands.

As a trusted leader in the restoration industry, SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas provides 24-hour residential and commercial services. As a locally owned and operated business, we’re dedicated to being faster to any size disaster, with the training, equipment, and expertise to handle your restoration and cleaning needs.

• 24-Hour Emergency Service
• Faster to Any Size Disaster
• Highly Trained Restoration Technicians
• A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry
• Locally Owned and Operated
• Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment

The Emergency Ready Plan app is an immediate plan of action that allows you to put crucial property information before a disaster strikes - allowing less downtime and business interruption.

No one plans on a disaster, but with the SERVPRO- Ready Plan app you can be ready for whatever happens!

SERVPRO offers the Emergency Ready Plan app completely free of charge- this is our way of making sure our community is safe and well taken care of. SERVPRO is always HERE TO HELP.

Need help putting together your Emergency Ready Profile? Contact our team today for assistance.

912.285.0724

Lightning Strike Causes Fire Damage

4/26/2020 (Permalink)

Lightning is a natural phenomenon that occurs very often in South Georgia. Bolts can sometimes be greater than 100 million volts, in just one lightning strike! Lightning is one of the most deadly forces on the earth and can cause serious structural damages.

When lightning strikes your home or business, the most commonplace for a fire to start is within the attic. Attic fires spread fast with the insulation feeding the fire. Lighting can also cause electric fires.

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas is equipped to handle fire damages after lightning strikes. We are heading into the peak of hurricane season- if your home or business is damaged by lightning contact our office for a free assessment. We will walk through the claims process with you to ensure a stress-free claims process. 

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas offers fire restoration and reconstruction services. 

Contact us today (912)285-0724

We are Cleaning Experts

4/26/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need

During this unprecedented time caused by the global pandemic of coronavirus, this is a reminder to our customers that we are specialists in cleaning services, and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards.

Specialized Training

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

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

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

Specialized Products

The CDC recommends usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar pathogens to the coronavirus. Multiple products in the SERVPRO product line carry the EPA-approved emerging pathogens claims. While there is currently no product tested against this particular strain of the coronavirus, we are following all guidelines as provided by the CDC and local authorities.

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning

If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas 912-285-0724

Sources:

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

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

Georgia Opening for Business

4/26/2020 (Permalink)

As Georiga businesses begin to reopen, know that SERVPRO is Here to Help in this time of need.

During this unprecedented time caused by the global pandemic of the novel COVID-19, this is a reminder to our customers that we are specialists in cleaning services, and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards.

Specialized Training

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

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

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

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning

If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today –

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas

912-285-0724

SERVPRO is Dedicated to Getting You Back to Business

4/17/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Brunswick provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster in St. Simons. We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

• 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 

Commercial Services

There's never a convenient time for fire or water damage to strike your Golden Isles commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business. Learn more about our commercial services:

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

Have Questions? Call Us 24/7

(912)264-6094

We are Cleaning Experts

4/11/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need

During this unprecedented time caused by the global pandemic of coronavirus, this is a reminder to our customers that we are specialists in cleaning services, and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards.

Specialized Training

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

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

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

Specialized Products

The CDC recommends usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar pathogens to the coronavirus. Multiple products in the SERVPRO product line carry the EPA-approved emerging pathogens claims. While there is currently no product tested against this particular strain of the coronavirus, we are following all guidelines as provided by the CDC and local authorities.

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning

If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas 912-285-0724

Sources:

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

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

When April Showers Cause Storm Damage Rely on SERVPRO

4/10/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Brunswick 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 Saint Simons 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 

912-264-6094

Quarantine and Clean

4/8/2020 (Permalink)

Tips for your homes "Quarantine Clean"

Thorough cleaning of your home will help you get rid of any items that pose health and safety hazards. If you are to ensure that your space is clean, it is important to be aware of the commonly missed cleaning locations around the home.

Beneath the fridge

While most people focus on making sure that the inside of their fridge is clean, do you know how much dirt can accumulate beneath the appliance? Proper home maintenance requires that you move your fridge and clean this area to prevent a buildup of bacteria and dirt.

Under large pieces of furniture

Since it takes a lot of time and effort to move large and bulky pieces of furniture, there is a good chance you will not clean the area when wiping your floor. As a result, dust is known to accumulate in this area, a factor associated with being unclean. If you want to make your work easier, you should clean such areas regularly.

Light switches, doorknobs, and handles

These areas of your home are touched on a daily basis. Wiping them will prevent the spread of bacteria and germs.

Under the couch cushions

Some of your activities while at home will result in dirt and debris accumulating in unexpected areas. If you are fond of snacking on the couches, crumbs can buildup underneath the cushions, compromising the cleanliness of your home.

Interior doors

While this area is commonly missed when cleaning, your interior doors attract both dirt and dust over time. This is why experts recommend that you have them cleaned at least once every month. Make sure that the door frames are also wiped if you want to leave your home feeling fresh and welcoming.

Window blinds

Home maintenance is all about making sure that the overall cleanliness of your space is observed and maintained. Window blinds cover a large area, making it easy for dust to accumulate on them. Since this makes it hard to clean them, you should consider hiring the services of a cleaning company such as SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas.

Keeping your home clean does not end with the clean-up exercise. It is a daily routine that requires commitment from all family members. Enhancing the comfort you enjoy at home will also involve making repairs in case of defects.

Need help with your upcoming cleaning projects?

Give us a call at (912)285-0724

Here to Help in Your Proactive Cleaning Against COVID-19

4/5/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need

During this unprecedented time caused by the global pandemic of coronavirus, this is a reminder to our customers that we are specialists in cleaning services, and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards.

Specialized Training

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

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

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

Specialized Products

The CDC recommends usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar pathogens to the coronavirus. Multiple products in the SERVPRO product line carry the EPA-approved emerging pathogens claims. While there is currently no product tested against this particular strain of the coronavirus, we are following all guidelines as provided by the CDC and local authorities.

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning

If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas at 912-285-0724

SERVPRO of Brunswick - Here to Help

4/5/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Brunswick provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster in the Golden Isles. We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

• 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 

Whether your St. Simons home needs emergency flood damage or your carpets cleaned, you can depend on us.  Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and can make your property look its best. Learn more about our residential services:

• Water Damage Restoration
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Mold Remediation
• Storm Damage Restoration
• Cleaning Services
• Building/Reconstruction Services

Have Questions? Call give us a call anytime, any day. We are Here to Help

SERVPRO of Brunswick

912-264-6094

Say GOODBYE to Smoke Odors

3/23/2020 (Permalink)

Fire, smoke, and soot damage in your home or business can create a very unpleasant and potentially permanent odor. As various materials burn, the smoke produced travels throughout your home and/or business, leaving odor deposits on surface and hard-to-reach places.

Even the smallest of fires can cause odors for years to come if your property is not cleaned by a restoration professional.

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas are prepared to combat these odors with technicians certified by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration (IICRC). SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas can provide specialized services that can rid your home or business of offensive odors left behind by fire or smoke damage. SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas will not cover up lingering odors with a fragrance; we seek to find the source of the odor and remove it.

If you or someone you know suffer from fire damage. Contact SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas for your deodorization.

Call Us Today – (912) 285-0724

Tornadoes in South Georgia

3/15/2020 (Permalink)

We are at the start of tornado season for Southeast Georgia with our biggest threat of wind damage for our inner coastal Georgia areas. Even though tornadoes are year-round in Georgia they see their peak in March through May.

What to know about tornadoes in Georgia

• All of Georgia is prone to tornadoes
• Tornadoes most often occur in mid-afternoon to early evening. But can strike at anytime day or night.
• Georgia tornadoes are often accompanied by hail and strong rainfall.

Know the difference between a Tornado Watch and Tornado Warning

1. Tornado Watch: Weather conditions have the "ingredients" to produce a tornado.
2. Tornado Warning: A tornado has been spotted in your area and should take immediate shelter. 

How to Prepare for Tornado Season 

1. Identify a "Storm Shelter" that is either an interior room with no windows or a basement preferably. 
2. Prepare a Storm Ready Kit
3. Listen to NOAA Weather Radio, commercial radio, television newscasts, or download the Ready Georgiamobile app for the latest information.
4. Always be aware of changing weather conditions.

Tornado season is here stay prepared and stay aware. SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville or Douglas is prepared to help you and your family when a storm hits our rural Georgia area. We offer a wide range of emergency response services such as:

1. Tarping Damaged Roofs and Buildings
2. Containing Damage 
3. 24- Hour Emergency Response
4. Generators
5. Water Damage Restoration

We are ALWAYS Here to Help our neighbors when disaster strikes. Find out more about how we can help you recover from storm damage. Have Storm or Flood Damage?
Call Us Today (912) 285-0724

Restoring after a Fire Damage

3/15/2020 (Permalink)

At the SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas we are highly trained water restoration specialists and value restoring versus replacing.

Why is restoring so important to SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas?

1. Peace of Mind - We value your belongings. The SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas takes the time to restore affected items preserving your financial investment as well as family heirlooms and keepsakes.
2. Save Money: Restoring is more cost-effective in the majority of cases due to replacement cost values. For example, it is cheaper to dry and save flooring than to remove and replace it.
3. Return to Normal Quicker: The drying process will return your home to normalcy sooner than replacing materials and working with contractors.
4. Restoring is Environmentally Friendly: By restoring flooring and other items that may be affected by fire or water damage you prevent future items from entering landfills.

Ways we restore vs replace:

1. Documents & Photo Restoration: Restoring precious documents and photos are crucial, especially if the documents are legally binding. Our SERVPRO document restoration team uses innovative vacuum freeze-drying techniques; in fact, we use the same freeze-drying methods used by the Library of Congress to dry valuable historic documents and books.
2. Electronics: Electronics after water damage presents a serious safety hazard and should be properly handled. That is why the SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas will coordinate an electrician to look over each effected electronic.
3. Floors: General carpet cleanings by SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas can restore your rugs and carpets after a water loss in the home. Other types of flooring may be tricky depending on the materials used. The SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas team will explain if the flooring is salvageable or not depending on moisture and the amount of water that has penetrated the flooring.
4. Furniture: If furniture is damp or has water damage SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas will test a spot on the fabric to see if the item is salvageable through an upholstery cleaning.  

Our #1 goal is returning damaged areas and items to preloss conditions doing all we can to make it “Like it never even happened.” SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas is dedicated to restoring both your property and the normalcy in your lives.

Contact SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas for your water restoration needs.

We're Here to Help After Flooding

2/17/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas responds faster to any size disaster.

Waycross residents are well aware of the occasional heavy amounts of rain associated with seasonal storm activity. Not only are the structural components of a dwelling exposed to the devastation heavy rains, overland runoff, and storm surge inflict, fixtures and contents also can suffer significant damage.

As restoration industry leaders in the region, we use a secure and reliable protocol to move household goods, furnishings, and personal possessions from flooded homes to safe and climate-controlled spaces for evaluation and treatment during restoration.

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas is here to help after any size flooding disaster. We have the tools and equipment you need to make a flooded office or home into they dry and comfortable space you long for. 

Need help with a storm or water damage cleanup? Call the brand you trust (912)285-0724

Warm Up with Space Heaters by Using them Safely

1/27/2020 (Permalink)

Warm-up this Winter

In the colder months of the year, homeowners look for ways to make chilly areas warm and comfortable. While space heaters can be useful to keep small areas warm, it’s very important to use them with caution. In a 2010 study, it was found that space heaters caused 32 percent of all home heating fires but were involved in 79 percent of all home-heating related fire deaths. Fortunately, using a space heater can be safe if you follow these simple recommendations.

NFPA offers the following safety tips.  

Portable electric space heaters

• Turn heaters off when you go to bed or leave the room.
• Use and purchase portable space heaters with an automatic shut off so if they’re tipped over they will shut off.
• A place space heater on a solid, flat surface.
• Plug power cords directly into outlets and never into an extension cord.
• Inspect for cracked or damaged, broken plugs or loose connections. Replace before using it.

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas is here to help you recover from any fire damage.  Our trained technicians will remove the smoke and soot from your home.  Saving your belongings and memories.  Call your neighbors when you need us 912-285-0724

2020 Resolution - Update Family Preparedness Plan

1/16/2020 (Permalink)

Create a family emergency ready plan for your family.

Do you need to update the preparations for emergencies in your home? Is safety something you have let slide since you've become so busy lately? SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas has a few key tips to help you get your emergency plan back on track before you need it.

Listen to the experts and research local disasters before making a plan

The safety of your family is your highest priority, and we completely understand. Staying secure is the top concern for our families as well. Before you make a plan, the American Red Cross says that you should consider the kinds of disasters you are likely to experience in your location. For instance, you would not plan for a massive earthquake in tornado alley, like you would not prepare for a tsunami in Wisconsin. The goal is to know what you are dealing with so that you can make appropriate preparations.

Put your emergency preparedness plan on paper

Children are as likely as adults to forget the steps to safety. To make sure that everyone in your home is on the same page, it is an excellent idea to print out a copy of the plan and place it in every bedroom or a central location in the home. This way, every member of the family has easy access to the plan and can practice it often. Quarterly or monthly practice sessions make sure the plan stays fresh in everyone's mind.

Plan for evacuations, and practice, practice, practice

No one can get too much preparation for tornadoes, floods, and hurricanes. Inform your children where you want them to meet you if you get separated or need to leave your home for safety. Talk to family members about the ways you will communicate when the worst happens. Getting your family as comfortable as possible with the steps to safety when disaster strikes is a vital part of keeping everyone alive in the long run.

For the times when there is nothing you can do to avoid danger, SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas is ready and equipped to handle any emergency you have from fires to floods. Keep your family safe with an emergency plan.

Replacing Cleaning Supplies

1/11/2020 (Permalink)

Get squeaky clean by regularly replacing cleaning supplies.

Maintaining a home or office and keeping it clean and bright is an endless job. The day-to-day work of having a place kept clean for a family or a group of employees takes a lot of energy. It also requires attention to detail and a ready stock of soaps, scrubbers, and bottles of Windex. As any homemaker or professional cleaner knows, you can never clean enough! This is especially true in a home with small children and/or pets, as well as in a busy office where late-night meetings often need extra food.

A Constant Cleaning Vigil

Keeping that home or office clean requires constant cleaning vigilance. It’s amazing how many dust bunnies can creep in under an office sofa or a living room couch. Though we all love our pets, the person in charge of keeping a pet environment clean may be forgiven for viewing the family cat or dog as a walking dust bunny. The trail of fur and dust one pet can leave around a home is amazing, but again, that’s why the cleanliness gods invented fur brushes and dust mops.

Restocking Supplies

One of the keys to keeping that home or office clean, bright, and smelling fresh is to keep the stock of cleanup supplies fresh, on a weekly basis. There’s nothing worse than confronting a serious pet mess or the aftermath of a late-night office meeting (with Chinese takeout) and then realizing the Windex bottle is empty. Forgetting to restock is what makes these soul-killing cleanup crises more serious than they need to be. So be sure to pay attention to those supplies and refresh them.

Calling in Cleanup Reinforcement

If the rigors of constant cleanup become daunting, it may be wise to consider bringing in professional help, from a top-flight cleanup service like SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas. SERVPRO is staffed by a dedicated and well-trained group of pros who know how to rehabilitate a messy home or office and get it looking spic and span in no time.

So if you’re confronting a cleanup job that’s too big to handle alone, call in SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas.

South Georgia Trees Could Cause Havoc on Your Home

1/11/2020 (Permalink)

Trees offer countless benefits to a home's landscape. Their appearance, shade and animal habitats are such an important and valued part of a property that many people are reluctant to remove trees. However, when tree limbs or the trees themselves become damaged or diseased due to age, invasive insects or storm damage, they can become a liability rather than an asset. The importance of including trees in a home maintenance plan can't be overstated.

Tree limbs that have died or are diseased are much more likely to cause damage to a property or home if they're ignored. Most limbs typically come crashing down during strong thunderstorms or high winds. However, it's not unheard of to have a large limb or even an entire tree fall at a random time. To help prevent these accidents from damaging your yard or, even worse, your home, it's best to cut off diseased, dying or dead limbs as soon as you identify them.

Weather events other than thunderstorms and winds can also do serious damage to trees as well. In coastal Georgia, heavy snow is a rare event, but ice storms are somewhat more common. Freezing rain that falls, even as drizzle or light rain, can do serious damage to trees due to the accumulated weight of the water which freezes on every twig and limb. The heavyweight often bends limbs and can crack or break them. If freezing rain has damaged your tree, experts recommend that you have the damage assessed and the limbs removed as soon as possible.

If your home suffers from storm damage give SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas a call at (912)285-0724.

5 Tips of Dealing with a Water Damage from a Leaking Roof

12/10/2019 (Permalink)

Roof leaks and water damages.

The rain is coming down and you have a roof leak. It wasn't there last time the rain came through, but it sure is there now. Hopefully, you caught it as a minor drip instead of a major leak. If you sustained water damage from that leak, you need to take steps to contain the damage and start getting this right.

5 Tips for Dealing with Water Damage from a Leaking Roof

• Deal with the water. Leaks usually pool on the nearest horizontal surface. For attic leaks, the water tends to pool on the ceiling below. The water will find the path of least resistance like a light fixture or vent opening. That is where you will see the drips. Get a bucket under the drip to keep the water from doing more damage. If the water is causing a dip in the ceiling, use the tip of a pencil to open a small hole in the dip to drain the water into a bucket.
• Locate the location of the leak. Get up into the attic to find where the water is getting in. It may be right above where the water is pooling, or it may be higher in the roof line. It could be near a vent or chimney opening as those are vulnerable locations for water leaks. If possible, get a bucket under the leak point, that will prevent any further damage to the ceiling below.
• Make temporary repairs if possible. If you can access the roof safely, draping a tarp over the leak can help prevent water from getting inside. If you cannot access the roof safely, use roof tape or cement to patch the hole. That will provide a temporary patch to keep the water out until the roofer arrives.
• Call in the pros. You need to call in two types of professional help. First, get a roofer in to fix the leak in the roof. The roofer has the equipment to do the job safely and effectively. Second, you need to bring in water restoration specialists to deal with the damage the leak caused. They can get the water out and start drying out your personal possessions. Doing this quickly can prevent mold and mildew from developing and minimize further damage.

These steps will help you minimize the damage the leak has caused and start getting your home back to normal. If you need assistance with water damage restoration, give us a call here at SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas

Rain Days + A Leaking Roof

11/27/2019 (Permalink)

We have the tools and training you need to recover from a roof leak.

The rain is coming down and you realize you have a roof leak. Quick grab the bucket and call SERVPRO of Waycross,Hinesville & Douglas.

Hopefully, you caught it as a minor drip instead of a major leak. If your property has sustained water damage from a roof leak, you need to take steps to contain the damage.

4 Tips for Dealing with Water Damage from a Leaking Roof:

1. Contain Water
2. Locate Leak
3. Make temporary repairs
4. Call in the roofing and water restoration professionals

Deal with the water- Leaks usually pool on the nearest horizontal surface. For attic leaks, the water tends to pool on the ceiling below. The water will find the path of least resistance like a light fixture or vent opening. That is where you will see the drips. Get a bucket under the drip to keep the water from doing more damage. If the water is causing a dip in the ceiling, use the tip of a pencil to open a small hole in the dip to drain the water into a bucket.

Locate the location of the leak- Get up into the attic to find where the water is getting in. It may be right above where the water is pooling, or it may be higher in the roof line. It could be near a vent or chimney opening as those are vulnerable locations for water leaks. If possible, get a bucket under the leak point, that will prevent any further damage to the ceiling below.

Make temporary repairs if possible- If you can access the roof safely, draping a tarp over the leak can help prevent water from getting inside. If you cannot access the roof safely, use roof tape or cement to patch the hole. That will provide a temporary patch to keep the water out until the roofer arrives.

Call SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas. You need to call in two types of professional help. First, get a roofer in to fix the leak in the roof. The roofer has the equipment to do the job safely and effectively. Second, you need to bring in water restoration specialists to deal with the damage the leak caused. They can get the water out and start drying out your personal possessions. Doing this quickly can prevent mold and mildew from developing and minimize further damage.

These steps will help you minimize the damage the leak has caused and start getting your home back to normal. If you need assistance with water damage restoration, give us a call here at SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas.

(912)285-0724

Gallons of Water Extracted from Local Church

11/27/2019 (Permalink)

We are always here to help our neighbors recover after any size disaster!

Recently our SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas team responded to an urgent call at a local church. The distressed caller spoke about water continuously flowing into the church and standing water of nearly a foot throughout. 

When our crews arrived we found the main water supply line broke in the wall. Our SERVPRO crew members were able to locate the shut off valve to eliminante more water from intruding the church.

With all hands on deck our SERVPRO crews worked hard to remove all of the water and moisture from the church and restored this property to preloss conditions. We were graciously told “SERVPRO was a blessing in such a mess”. We truly take pride in helping our customers, our neighbors recover after any disaster. SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville and Douglas are always here to help. 

Find out more about the services our SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville and Douglas team provides here!

THANKSGIVNG + Fire Safety

11/17/2019 (Permalink)

Keep kitchen safety a top priority this Thanksgiving season!

Thanksgiving is around the corner and we at SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas are excited to take part in this annual tradition of great food, friends and family.

While this time of year is truly a time to celebrate and give thanks, our fire restoration specialists see the holiday a little differently.

According to The National Fire Protection Association, Thanksgiving is the leading day for home cooking fires in the United States. Our fire restoration professionals are all too familiar with the devastation a house fire can bring to your home, but there are steps you can take to prevent a fire disaster from ruining your perfect holiday.

• Stay in the kitchen and check on the food periodically.
• Young children should always be kept away from the stove and any other fire hazards.
• The floor should be clear of any items that can cause a potential slip or fall.
• It is also a good idea to ensure that your smoke alarms are properly working.

By following these safety tips, we guarantee that you and your family will have a safe Thanksgiving season. Should you experience fire damage in your home, contact SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas and we’ll make your Thanksgiving disaster “Like it never even happened."

Call us at: (912)285-0724

Commercial Dryer Fire

11/15/2019 (Permalink)

When was the last time your dryer vent was cleaned?

Dryer fire caused damage to local  hotel. The fire was under control thanks to an alert employee at the hotel who detected smoke and called emergency officials. The fire department was able to extinguish the flames and all individuals were safely able to exit the hotel.

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas arrived at the scene early in the morning to find water and smoke damage effecting small amounts of the corridor and laundry room. Water extraction began immediately to avoid further damage. SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas continue to work diligently to restore this property. However, we are happy to report that the hotel remains open and running thanks to the fast response of the local fire department.

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas would like to remind everyone about dryer safety and the importance of getting your dryer vents cleaned. With the buildup of lint in your dryer vents can highly increase your chances of a fire.

Schedule your commercial or residential dryer vent cleaning today with the SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas.

(912) 285-0724

Cooking + Grease Fires

11/8/2019 (Permalink)

Grease fires can be extremely dangerous. Be sure to keep a fire extinguisher close to the kitchen.

To most people, a home is a place of safety, comfort, and refuge. That being said, houses can be swiftly transformed from places of safety into places of great danger by uncontrolled fires.

Uncontrolled fires can start in many ways and have many causes, but one of the most dangerous varieties of fires are grease fires. Grease fires can start and spread very quickly, and are difficult to put out without the proper fire-fighting equipment. Because of the great damage grease fires can cause, you must stay well-informed about the danger. This goes for the homeowner, apartment dweller, or the owner of a restaurant. It also pays to be aware of effective ways to prevent or stop these fires if the worst happens.

What Characterizes Grease Fires?

As their names suggest, grease fires are usually caused by built-up grease and oil around stoves, ovens, and other types of cooking apparatus. Grease fires are so common that the National Fire Protection Association states that cooking fires are one of the top causes of residential and commercial fires as well as fire-related injuries. In the cooking fire category, grease-related frying fires take the top spot. Thus, it is easy to see that fire damage prevention efforts can be made more effective by raising consumer awareness and educating people about fire safety.

What Makes Grease Fires so Dangerous?

Grease fires are dangerous for many reasons, but two of the biggest ones include the difficulty in putting them out and the high temperatures associated with them. These kinds of fires spread quite easily, and are well-known to quickly cause significant damage to structures.

What are Some Effective Ways to Mitigate Grease Fire Damages?

Fire can cause especially severe damages to structures due to the fire itself and the water and chemicals that are necessary to fight the fire. Fire damages can be very difficult to repair without the proper equipment, skills, and experience.

The good news is, your local disaster mitigation experts at SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas stand ready to put their specialized skills to work to on your behalf. We offer 24-hour emergency disaster relief services, trained and experienced technicians, and state of the art restoration technology. Contact us today and get your home or business back up and running in no time.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – (912) 285-0724

Making Strides with Riley’s Soles 4 Souls

11/8/2019 (Permalink)

Riley with Riley’s Soles 4 Souls proudly holds a box of donated shoes at the 2019 ‘Sole Jam’

Recently our SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas team participated in the 2019 ‘Sole Jam’ which was a concert in Brunswick, GA. The concert was aimed to raise money and shoe donations for a local non-profit Riley’s Soles 4 Souls. 

Riley’s Soles 4 Souls is a local non-profit founded by one of Glynn counties youth. The non-profit collects shoes to donate to the less fortunate all across the United States thus far. 

At the 2019 ‘Sole Jam’ we were able to help donate over 500 pairs of shoes and $1,769! Our SERVPRO office in Brunswick will remain a permanent drop off location for any gently used or new shoes.

Our SERVPRO team hopes to make the ‘Sole Jam’ concert a annual benefit for Riley’s mission.

Pet Dander Could Be Causing Poor Indoor Air Quality

11/2/2019 (Permalink)

Keep a happy and healthy home by staying on top of pet dander.

As a pet owner you are all to familiar with finding fur, dander and other leave behinds brought in by the dog or cat. From sweeping to mopping up the messes you stay pretty on top of the dander, right? One thing to keep in mind is your HVAC and how it is affected by your indoor pet. To improve your HVAC and keep it running without any animal hair/dander build up we have compiled a list of tricks to keep the air ducts fresh and vents clean.

1. Bathe your pets regularly.
Dirt and debris cling to your pets’ coats when they come in from outside. This dirt then transfers itself from their fur to your couch, the air, and eventually leading into the ductwork. Bathing your pets often cuts down on the pollutants being brought inside your home.

2. Clean your home often.
While bathing your pets will help, it will not eliminate the dirt entirely. Dust and mop often to keep your floors and furniture from building up too much dirt.

3. Change air filters.
Airborne hair and dander tend to accumulate very quickly in standard air filters. A clogged or blocked air filter can lead to poor indoor air quality. Change your air filter at least quarterly to ensure maximum efficiency.

4. Professionally clean your carpets.
Vacuuming and spot cleaning your carpets regularly will not get to those trapped allergens. Getting your carpets cleaned two times a year will cut down on dander and airborne particles.

5. Clean your air ducts.
Air ducts are the pathway for air to be circulated throughout your home. When those air ducts get clogged or coated in debris your indoor air quality decreases. Be sure your family is breathing the cleanest air possible by having your air ducts cleaned.

Pet owners have a lot of responsibility, especially if the pet is living indoors. Be sure to keep your home and indoor air quality top of mind with these helpful tricks.
Need to schedule a duct cleaning?

Call us today at (912)285-0724

Pumpkin Fest 2019 in Downtown Waycross

10/28/2019 (Permalink)

Ericka Walker dressed as Belle for Pumpkin Fest 2019 in Waycross, Georgia.

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville and Douglas enjoyed participating in this year's Pumpkin Fest put on by the Waycross-Ware County Chamber of Commerce. This years event was extra fun due to the homecoming parade route going right by all of the festivities. Kids and adults of all ages dressed up in their favorite customers and played various festival games for candy! No tricks only treats at Pumpkin Fest 2019!

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas set up a fun tent with putt putt games and loads of candy! Representative, Ericka Walker even participated in the costume contest dressing up as Disney's Belle from Beauty and the Beast. We look forward to next years event!

Need help after a water or fire damage? Contact SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas. We are here in your community and ready to help!

(912)285-0724

A Pumpkin of a Mess in Jesup

10/28/2019 (Permalink)

Talk about a “Pumpkin of a Mess” We had a great time with a our scarecrow being showcased in Downtown Jesup.

Scarecrows are among us in Jesup, Georgia! SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas participated in this years- Scarecrows Are Among Us contest! Our scarecrow was dressed from head to toe as a hardworking SERVPRO technician cleaning up a “Pumpkin of a Mess”. Our SERVPRO scarecrow was ready to jump into action with his extractor to clean up the spilled pumpkin mess.

We would like to thank they Wayne County Chamber of Commerce for hosting this years contest and for everyone that took the time to enjoy our scarecrow. We will be brainstorming next years scarecrow so we can take home 1st place!

If you find yourself in a pumpkin of a mess, call SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas to make it “Like it never even happened” 

(912)0285-0724

Fire Safety

10/28/2019 (Permalink)

Smoke covered door frame after a kitchen fire.

Planning for a fire may not be something you want to think about, but for the safety of you and your family it is crucial to have a plan. If a fire does happen the pre-planning can make a huge difference in swiftly getting you and your family to safety.

Creating a Fire Evacuation Plan:

Include everyone in planning: be sure to assign someone to help kids, pets, and elderly to safety if a fire occurs. If that assigned person is out of town assign a backup person.
Check smoke alarms: Be sure that smoke alarms are working and are properly placed in key areas. NFPA suggest that a smoke detector is placed in all sleeping rooms, outside each sleeping room and on every level of the home.
Keep Important Doctuments Safe: be sure to keep copies of identification cars and insurance cards in a fireproof safe, or have them uploaded to the cloud.

When creating a Fire Emergency Plan it is cruical to pre-plan what you will do to restore your property if there is damage. SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas can help you in your planning efforts by outlining all of our services. No one plans for a disaster, but you can prepare!

If you need help in restoring your property after a fire, our SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas  team will arrive and get to work restoring your home to preloss condition.

(912)285-0724

Flood Damage- What To Do

10/28/2019 (Permalink)

Flood damage can lead to minor repairs, or it can leave a business or home with tremendous devastation. Since you can't know what is going to happen until after the flood, preparing for the worst is best.

Consider the Electric

When water and electric mix, a major, potentially fatal, hazard can arise. If you are concerned about flood waters getting into the electric, you should have a professional consultation to find out what you can do to minimize the potential for risk.

Use Sandbags

While small sandbags are unlikely to stop all of the damage that a major flood can cause, they can be of assistance, especially if the flood is of a lesser severity. Sandbags can help to keep the water contained to one room or one part of the business or home. Even if a flood does find its way into the lower level of the company or house, you might be able to keep it there.

Make Repairs

Some problems in the construction of your business building or house might make the space more susceptible to floods. For example, uneven ground or a poor drainage system could lead to greater problems. Before the next flood comes to town, have these issues repaired. You may need to contact the landlord if you do not own the property.

Move Important Items

If you can store important items in another facility, one that is better protected against floods, then consider that option. When that is not a possibility, you should move important items, such as products, files or furniture, to higher ground. By moving these items to a different floor of the space, you are taking a step toward protecting them.

When you want to take precautions against major damage where you live or where you work, you should follow some basic protocols and advice for doing so. However, if there is water damage to your home or business, give SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas a call. Our highly-trained team will complete a damage assessment and get your back to normal as soon as possible.

(912)285-0724

Scary Sewage Back Up

10/21/2019 (Permalink)

Trust the experienced team at SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas. We are IICRC!

We know how scary sewer system backups can be in your home or business. These backups are very serious and unsanitary and should be treated as a immediate emergency. When you notice a sewage backup call SERVPRO to safely clean up the contamination.

The water that comes from backed-up sewage is considered Category 3 Water also known as Black Water. This water is very dangerous and is a immediate health concern due to the water being filled with bacteria and other pathogens.

How does SERVPRO of Wacross, Hinesville & Douglas respond to a Sewage Backup

1. Response: At the first sign of a sewage backup you need to immediately follow your properties Emergency Ready Profile and call SERVPRO of Brunswick. SERVPRO of Brunswick knows the risk of the contaminated water and wants to help you get rid of it as soon as possible to eliminate the chance of people getting sick or allowing for mold or mildew to grow.

Remember, that it only takes 24 hours after a flood for mold or mildew to grow.

2. Inspection: Once SERVPRO of Brunswick arrives, they will inspect the building for a scope of the damage- looking for mold growth, trapped water, and standing water. After the inspection is complete SERVPRO will create a cleanup and restoration plan that best fits the property.

3. Cleanup: Sewage cleanup starts by first removing the non-salvageable items, then removing salvageable items and disinfecting them. After non-salvageable and salvageable items are removed the SERVPRO crew will begin removing affected drywall, flooring, and any paneling.

4. Restoration: Once the building has been cleaned and disinfected it is now crucial for the property to begin the drying phase. When the building is at a normal moisture level- rebuild can resume.

Sewage Cleanup is a process and each step is crucial when dealing with Category 3 Water. 

Request a inspection to clean your sewage damage:

(912)285-0724

Crawl Space Affecting Your Indoor Air Quality?

10/14/2019 (Permalink)

Crawl space issues? SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas can handle that.

When it comes to crawl spaces- we are most likely talking about dirt, rocks, beams, and duct work. But did you realize your crawl space can be negatively affecting the air you breathe in your home. Unwanted moisture in your crawl space can cause health risk for you and your family.

How does moisture get in?

Moisture accumulates in your crawl space because of high humidity, changing temperatures which leads to condensation. For this reason, it is important that the moisture content of your crawlspace is monitored properly. When moisture in your crawl space is not monitored, mold and rot will begin growing on beams, joists, and insulation.

When mold is growing beneath your home take action; up to 40% of the air in your home seeps up through the crawlspace.

In a nutshell, when your crawl space has a mold issue, your indoor air quality will be negatively affected in your home.

The Fix:
Crawl Space Encapsulation!
Crawl Space Encapsulation means that a crawl space is protected from moisture by using a vapor barrier on the floor and walls.

Why choose encapsulation?
Crawl Space Encapsulation allows you to control the environment; unlike open crawl spaces. Crawl Space Encapsulation allows you to keep that space closed off to outside factors as well as keep it at a steady and controlled temperature. Once crawl space encapsulation is complete your home is not only cleaner, but healthier for you and your family.

Want to learn more? Give us a call at
(912)285-0724

Pet Owners HVAC Maintance Tips

10/1/2019 (Permalink)

As a pet owner you are all to familiar with finding fur, dander and other leave behinds brought in by the dog or cat. From sweeping to mopping up the messes you stay pretty on top of the dander, right? One thing to keep in mind is your HVAC and how it is affected by animal fur and dander. To improve your HVAC and keep it running without any animal hair build up we have compiled a list of tricks to keep the air ducts fresh and vents clean.

1. Bathe your pets regularly.
Dirt and debris cling to your pets’ coats when they come in from outside. This dirt then transfers itself from their fur to your couch, the air, and eventually leading into the ductwork. Bathing your pets often cuts down on the pull ants being brought inside your home.

2. Clean your home often.
While bathing your pets will help, it will not eliminate the dirt entirely. Dust and mop often to keep your floors and furniture from building up too much dirt.

3. Change air filters.
Airborne hair and dander tend to accumulate very quickly in standard air filters. A clogged or blocked air filter can lead to poor indoor air quality. Change your air filter at least quarterly to ensure maximum efficiency.

4. Professionally clean your carpets.
Vacuuming and spot cleaning your carpets regularly will not get to those trapped allergens. Getting your carpets cleaned two times a year will cut down on dander and airborne particles.

5. Clean your air ducts.
Air ducts are the pathway for air to be circulated throughout your home. When those air ducts get clogged or coated in debris your indoor air quality decreases. Be sure your family is breathing the cleanest air possible by having your air ducts cleaned.

Pet owners have a lot of responsibility, especially if the pet is living indoors. Be sure to keep your home and indoor air quality top of mind with these helpful tricks.
Need to schedule a carpet cleaning or air duct cleaning? Give SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas a call today! (912)285-0724

The Hidden Danger of Clogged Dryer Vents

9/27/2019 (Permalink)

Frustrated your clothes aren’t drying as fast as they used to? Beware of the possible hidden danger. Dryer vents can begin to get clogged with lint and other debris that are easily ignitable. Did you know that dryer vent fires are one of the leading causes of house fires in the U.S.

According to the U.S. Fire Administration clothing dryers are reported to cause an astonishing 2,900 home fires each year! With the leading cause of clothing dryer fires being neglect to having the dryers cleaned.

The U.S. Fire Administration also has some helpful tips for clothing dryer safety:

Cleaning:

• Clean the lint filter before and after each load of laundry.
• Clean lint out of the vent pipe every three months.
• Have your dryer cleaned regularly by a professional; like SERVPRO. Especially if it is taking longer than normal for clothes to dry.

Maintenance:

• Inspect the venting system behind the dryer to ensure it is not damaged or restricted.
• Put a covering on outside wall dampers to keep outrain, snow and dirt.
• Make sure the outdoor vent covering opens when the dryer is on.

Read more helpful dryer safety tips at USFA.

Along with being leaders in the restoration industry, SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas provide a wide variety of cleaning services like Dry Vent Cleanings!

Be proactive and schedule a dryer vent cleaning today! 

(912)285-0724

Storm Prep Seminar at Coastal Pines

9/22/2019 (Permalink)

Ericka Walker, Business Development Representative presenting at the Storm Prep Seminar on Storms that SERVPRO has helped with!

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas enjoyed speaking to the Waycross- Ware County community at the Storm Prem Seminar hosted by the Waycross- Ware County Chamber of Commerce on August 14, 2019, at Coastal Pines Technical College.

The Storm Prep Seminar was geared towards preparing the community for peak hurricane season. Even though Ware County is not at risk for hurricanes, we still experience strong winds, rain, and experience an overwhelming amount of evacuees from coastal areas. Jonathan Daniels with Ware County Emergency Management Agency spoke about the importance of getting a plan in place before the storm and identifying evacuation shelters. Ware County CERT was also a key presenter at the seminar. Ware County CERT Coordinator, Perry Blackburn spoke about the important role our CERT team plays in the community in preparing and helping community members understand the importance of emergency preparedness.

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas are passionate about preparing our local communities for peak hurricane season. This year we hosted our 2nd Annual Emergency Preparedness Event in Waycross- the event was a huge success and had many vendors.

Want SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas to host a Storm Prep Seminar at your office?

Give us a call today! 

(912)285-0724

Huge Success - 2nd Annual Emergency Preparedness of Waycross

9/22/2019 (Permalink)

Successful 2nd Annual Event.

On Saturday, August 24 SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas hosted the 2nd Annual Emergency Preparedness Event of Waycross! The event was held on the front lawn at the Okefenokee Fairgrounds in Waycross. The event was designed to educate community members on the importance of getting prepared prior to emergencies; and to familiarize the community of first responders and other emergency response personnel that serve Ware and surrounding counties.

The event was a huge success and SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas passed out over 90 Hurricane Readiness kits. Carol Irvin, with the Department of Health and Safe Kids checked car seats and Ware County Sheriff's Office helped with making sure car seats were installed properly. Waycross Fire Department taught the importance of crawling under smoke to escape fires in their fire safety trailer.

We would like to thank all of the first responders that came out and set up interactive booths:

- American Red Cross

- Coffee/Atkins/Bacon County Amateur Radio

- Satilla Tree Surgeons

- SERVPRO

- SnoBiz of Waycross

- UGA Extension - Ware

- Ware County CERT

- Ware County DPH

- Ware County EMA

- Ware County EMS

- Ware County Fire Department

- Ware County Sheriff's Office

- Ware County 911

- Waycross Fire Department

- Waycross Police/SWAT

Another special thank you goes out to our food vendors like Sno Biz of Waycross and Rick’s BBQ of Waycross. Thank you for your support in our community.

We are thrilled with the community's interest and involvement in this event. If you are interested in joining our event next year please contact our Waycross office at 912-285-0724

Storm Surge for Coastal Georgia

9/3/2019 (Permalink)

9/3 11:00 AM Update from the NOAA

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas are on alert and preparing for local impacts as a result of Hurricane Dorian. Dorian is now expected to be a major hurricane and the current path is forecast to affect our local area. Our SERVPRO® teams are aware, organized and ready to pitch in once the storm passes.

Wind damage and flooding are likely to occur with this storm, and we are ready with the right equipment to help alleviate damage to property.

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas is prepared to assist you, our neighbors with any damage Hurricane Dorian leaves behind. We believe in our community and are always Here to Help!

Hurricane Dorian

9/3/2019 (Permalink)

Hurricane Dorian expected to bring wind and rain to the Coast of Georgia.

Imagine a windstorm blows through your town and you notice shingles or damage to your roof- with damage to roofing and or your windows allows outside environmental factors inside and can further damage your home. 

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas believes in restoring your preloss conditions. We understand the headache damage can be and the stress of being displaced. That’s why SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas works with you to make sure efficiency and safety is top of mind during your restoration projects.

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas is prepared to get your home back to preloss conditions by offering a wide range of services after wind damage. 

Storm Services:

- Emergency Storm Response

- Roof Tarping

- Window/Door Board Up

- Water Removal

- Reconstruction Services

- Document Drying

- Much More

We proudly serve several communities in South Georgia: Waycross, Hinesville, Douglas, Jesup, Blackshear, Alma, Patterson, Ludowici, Midway, and more!

Our SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville and Douglas team prides themselves on being Faster to Anysize Disaster! When you need us, we will be there to make it “Like it never even happened."

Give us a call today: (912)285-0724

Lightning Strike Causes Home Damage

8/29/2019 (Permalink)

Lightning is a natural phenomenon that occurs very often in South Georgia. Bolts can sometimes be greater than 100 million volts, in just one lightning strike! Lightning is one of the most deadly forces on the earth and can cause serious structural damages.

When lightning strikes your home or business, the most common place for a fire to start is within the attic. Attic fires spread fast with the insulation feeding the fire. Lighting can also cause electric fires.

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas are equipped to handle fire damages after lightning strikes. We are heading into the peak of hurricane season- if your home or business is damaged by lightning contact our office for a free assessment. We will walk through the claims process with you to ensure a stress-free claims process. 

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas offer fire restoration and reconstruction services. 

Contact us today (912)285-0724

SERVPRO - No Job Too Big!

8/27/2019 (Permalink)

There is no job too big for the SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas! We are well equipped to handle water, fire, and storm damages for 100 square feet to 500,000 square feet and beyond!

If your manufacturing plant is damaged don’t worry! SERVPRO is here to help get you back to business faster! We offer a wide range of restoration services as well as re-construction services. SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas are here in your community and offer 24-7 emergency response.

A great advantage of working with SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas is we work with your insurance company and adjuster to make for a stress-free claims process. We understand this might be your first claims process and we can help ease the stress and burden of the overall claim. 

Learn more about our commercial services. 

Refrigerator Causes Water Damage

8/23/2019 (Permalink)

Could your refrigerator/ice maker cause damage? Truth is it could cause damage throughout your entire home! Refrigerators/Icemakers water supply line can disconnect spreading water throughout your house.  

How can this happen?

1. The supply line to your fridge or ice maker if not installed properly can disconnect. Homeowners are encouraged to have a professional to install the tubing. 

2. The supply line is aged and wears over time. Regularly check the supply line to check for corrosion or signs of damage. 

3. Small pinholes in the supply line. When installed there may be tiny holes in the supply line that go undetected for years, leading to gallons of water seeping into the home. 

What to do if your home is damaged?

1. Turn off the water until the leak is fixed.

2. Contact a water restoration professional like the SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas to properly dry out your home and to prevent further damages from mold and mildew. 

3. Re-install the fridge by a trained professional. 

Have a water damage? Give us a call.

(912)285-0724

2nd Annual Emergency Prep Event

8/21/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas will be kicking of our 2nd Annual Emergency Preparedness Event in Waycross!

We are thrilled to announce that this years event is going to be BIGGER and BETTER! This years event will be at the Okefenokee Fairgrounds!

Vendors include:

- American Red Cross

- Coffee/Atkins/Bacon County Amateur Radio

- Satilla Tree Surgeons

- SERVPRO

- SnoBiz 

- UGA Extension - Ware

- Ware County CERT

- Ware County DPH

- Ware County EMA

- Ware County EMS

- Ware County Fire Department 

- Ware County Sheriffs Office

- Ware County 911

- Waycross Fire Department

- Waycross Police/SWAT

This years event we will be having door prizes for each family, as well as raffles and a chance to win a generator! If you have a child in a car seat- the Ware County Department of Health will be conducting free car seat checks to be sure the seat is still in date and installed properly. 

We look forward to seeing everyone at the event on 8/24 from 11-2!

Storm Prep Seminar - Waycross, GA

8/16/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas enjoyed speaking to the Waycross- Ware County community members at the Storm Prem Seminar hosted by the Waycross- Ware County Chamber of Commerce on August 14, 2019, at Coastal Pines Technical College.

The Storm Prep Seminar was geared towards preparing the community for peak hurricane season. Even though Ware County is not at risk from hurricanes, we still experience strong winds, rain, and experience an overwhelming amount of evacuees from coastal areas. Jonathan Daniels with Ware County Emergency Management Agency spoke about the importance of getting a plan in place before the storm and identifying evacuation shelters. Ware County CERT was also a key presenter at the seminar. CERT Coordinator, Perry Blackburn spoke about the important role CERT team plays in the community in preparing and helping community members understand the importance of emergency preparedness.

Our very own Ericka Walker, spoke about the importance of having a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile in place for your business. Emergency Ready Profiles are a free service SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas offers to business owners in our community to asses the property before damage strikes and take photos as well as gather valuable information you will need after a disaster. 

Tropical Storm Barry and Georgia

7/11/2019 (Permalink)

Tropical Storm Barry has formed in the Gulf of Mexico and is expected to make landfall late Friday to Saturday morning. As the storm strengthens forecasters are anticipating Tropical Storm Barry to become a Category 1 Hurricane when it reaches the Louisana Coast with 10-15 inches of rain.

Georgia is expected to get increased rain chances as well as higher humidity levels as the storm passes to the west of us.

Our thoughts are with the people of Coastal Louisiana and proudly back the SERVPRO Storm Teams preparing to restore properties after wind and flood damage.

If your Georgia home suffers from flood or wind damage, contact SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas to make it “Like it never even happened.”

 (912)285-0724

Clear Out Gutters to Prevent Water Damages

7/9/2019 (Permalink)

Prevent possible water damages by regularly cleaning your gutters or investing in gutter guards.

Most people never think about the gutters on their home, but they play a very important role. Your gutters and downspouts direct rainwater away from your home so that it doesn't get into your crawlspace or basement, which can cause damage to your home. The best way to keep water flowing smoothly through your gutters is to keep them clean and free of debris, and here are some tips on how to do so.

If you are willing to invest the money, buying gutter guards is one of the best ways to keep your gutters clean. Gutter guards, or gutter shields, as they are sometimes called, are made of aluminum or vinyl mesh. The mesh has small holes that are big enough to let the raindrops in but small enough to keep most dirt and debris out. Gutter guards can cost hundreds of dollars, and it's not an expense that many people want to make or can afford.

The good news is there are other good ways to keep your gutters clean. One of those is simply to do a regular gutter cleaning. This usually involves getting on a ladder and grabbing some gloves and a garden hose. You can wash out most of the dirt and debris with the hose, although you may have to remove large clumps by hand. You should do this a couple of times a year.

To help keep your gutters from getting debris in them in the first place, it's a good idea to trim back trees. Large trees that have branches that hang over your roof are a good source of leaves and sticks that can clog up your gutters. Keeping trees trimmed back away from your house won't alleviate the problem altogether, but it should cut down on a number of leaves and other debris you wind up within your gutters.

Prevention is key when it comes to your gutters, which is why regular cleaning is important. Ignoring your gutters can lead to water damage that requires home restoration work.

If you do wind up with water damage in your home because of clogged gutters SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas can take care of your water damage to make it “Like it never even happened.” We offer 24/7 emergency service - give us a call!

(912)285-0724

Firework SAFETY

6/28/2019 (Permalink)

FIREWORKS and SPARKLERS are a fun and thrilling way to celebrate the 4th of July. This year more people are ditching the stay at home firework show for the experts for great reason.  

More fires are reported on July 4 than any other day of the year, according to the National Fire Protection Association. Each year, fireworks cause on average 1,300 structure fires, 300 vehicle fires and nearly 17,000 other fires resulting in thousands of injuries.

Tips if you choose to buy fireworks, be sure to follow the following safety tips:

• Never use fireworks while impaired by drugs or alcohol
• Never allow young children to handle fireworks
• Older children should use them only under close adult supervision
• Anyone using fireworks or standing nearby should wear protective eyewear
• Never light them indoors
• Only use them away from people, houses and flammable material
• Only light one device at a time and maintain a safe distance after lighting
  Never ignite devices in a container
• Do not try to re-light or handle malfunctioning fireworks
• Soak unused fireworks in water for a few hours before discarding
• Keep a bucket of water nearby to fully extinguish fireworks that don't go off or in case of fire

Better yet, grab a blanket and a patch of lawn, kick back and let the experts handle the show.

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas wishes you a happy and safe July 4th! Let freedom ring and safety be top of mind! 

Liberty County Hurricane Preparedness Expo

6/18/2019 (Permalink)

Hurricane Preparedness Expo put on by Liberty County Emergency Management Agency on June 14 at Lowe’s in Hinesville.

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas was very eager to participate in this years Hurricane Preparedness Expo in Liberty County. The Hurricane Preparedness Expo is aimed at preparing the community for hurricanes and teaching them what resources in the community are available to them after disaster strikes. Hurricane season began on June 1st, and we have already had one named storm this season.

The Hurricane Preparedness Expo was held last Friday, June 14 from 3:00-6:00 PM at the Lowes on W Oglethorpe Highway. The expo had hourly ticket drawings for door gift cards and other preparedness goodies like weather radios.

Participating Companies and Agencies included:

• Georgia Farm Bureau of Liberty County
• Georgia Power
• Floyd's Tree Service
• Ft.Stewart EMA
• Liberty County EMA
• Liberty Regional Medical Center/EMS
• Long County EMA
  Lowe’s
• SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas
• Sho Nuff Smokin BBQ
• WTOC

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas understands that your home is more than a structure; your family’s furniture, clothing, keepsakes, and other belongings help transform a house into a home. The first 24 hours after a storm causing widespread flooding and water damage are the most important in preventing secondary or permanent damage. Our team is ready to respond as quickly as possible to help our local communities with cleanup and restoration. We take pride in our community and serving the people that reside in it. We’re faster to any size disaster with highly trained technicians.

If your home or business is affected by flood or storm damage trust the SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas to make it “Like it never even happened.”

(912)285-0724

Keeping Up With Commercial Carpet Cleanings

6/18/2019 (Permalink)

Schedule a carpet cleaning inspection and estimate today!

Most carpeting is designed to camouflage dirt, and that’s especially true for commercial carpeting. If the carpet in your business is looking dull or rough around the edges, it’s probably time for a commercial cleaning.

Dingy carpet can hurt your business in several ways. For example:

• A carpet that isn’t well cared-for will need to be replaced sooner than one that receives regular cleanings and maintenance, costing you money.
• If you own commercial building space, keeping your carpets in good repair can cut down on complaints and liability.
• Clean carpeting and flooring are part of the good image of your business; clients will be more comfortable with you, and your employees will feel more positive about their work environment, affecting productivity.
• Clean carpets reduce loose particles, which protects indoor air quality. A clean carpet also reduces illness-causing biological contaminants such as bacteria, mold and viruses that can negatively affect your clients and work staff.

You should consider cleaning your commercial carpet as a regular part of your business maintenance program.

Consider these points when deciding what an appropriate cleaning schedule should be:

1. Color, nap and pile, type and density of your carpet: a higher-quality carpet will probably be able to go longer without cleaning, for example, and hold up better over the long run.
2. Foot traffic in your place of business: this aspect is going to change based on seasons and weather.
3. The type of your commercial space: if you deal in auto parts or auto mechanics, for example, you will need to have a much heavier cleaning schedule.
4. The type of business you conduct: a daycare or restaurant is going to need more attention than an attorney’s office. If you are a business related to the medical field, your needs may be very specific based on the area of medicine you are associated with.

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas team stands ready to help with all your commercial cleaning needs. We are experienced in the area of cleanup after water and fire damage, and mold remediation is one of our specialties, as well. Call us today at (912)285-0724 

Did You Know We Work with Science?

5/23/2019 (Permalink)

Bet you didn’t know that SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas has a team of scientists! There is a specific science behind drying out a water damage. Our SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas team has the knowledge of psychrometrics. Psychrometrics is essential to restoring a water damaged structure to it’s preloss condition.

While your initial reaction may be to grab a few towels to mop up the mess and place fan or two around the damaged area, the team at SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas are trained in the science of drying and follow a strict industry-approved standards to help lower the chances of any secondary damages. 

If your business suffers a water damage SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas will:

• Inspect and detect every area that is holding moisture
• Measure how much moisture is in the materials, as well as how each material is drying.
• Speed up Mother Nature by using professional drying equipment.

What do we mean when we say “speed up Mother Nature”? A wet building can often dry naturally, but often takes to long and secondary damages occur while the natural dry out process occurs. SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas has the drying equipment to speed up the drying process to minimize and eliminate further damages in the home.

Need help after a water damage? Contact SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas today.

(912)285-0724

2019 Hurricane Season - Prepare Now

5/21/2019 (Permalink)

Hurricane Prep 2019

Here at SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas we want you to be safe during the 2019 hurricane season. Hurricane season can bring strong winds and flood water to our area. We’re sharing some guidelines for you today so that you can be ready if and when a hurricane hits the area.

Before a hurricane:

• Sign up for local alerts and warnings and monitor local news and weather reports.
• Prepare for a possible evacuation by testing your emergency communication plan with your loved ones in advance.
• Make sure everyone knows evacuation routes and designated safe places to stay.
• Stock emergency or build a Emergency Preparedness Kit and supplies, and pack to-go bags.
• Collect all important documents and safeguard them.

During a hurricane:

• Follow all guidance from your local authorities - like Ware County Emergency Management Agency (EMA)
• If you are advised to evacuate, grab your to-go bag and your loved ones and leave immediately.
• Stay away from windows and shelter on the lowest level in an interior room, moving to higher ground if there is flooding or a flood warning.
• Never walk or drive on flooded roads or through water.
  Call 9-1-1 if your life is threatened.

After a hurricane:

• Only return to the area of your home when authorities say it is safe to do so.
• Do not enter damaged buildings until they are inspected by qualified professionals.
• Never walk or drive on flooded roads or through floodwaters.
  Keep an eye out for downed trees, power lines, and poles.
  Protect your hands and feet with gloves and sturdy shoes.
• When cleaning up, do not remove heavy debris by yourself.
• Do not drink tap water until local authorities have approved its safety.

Here at SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas, we care about the safety of you and your loved ones. We are experienced in the cleanup jobs that are necessary after flooding and wind damage. 

If you have experienced storm, fire or water damage or are having trouble with a mold issue, call us at (912) 285-0724, or visit our website: SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas. 

When Flooding Strikes.. Count on SERVPRO

5/18/2019 (Permalink)

When flood waters rise, rely on SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas.

Flooding can happen anywhere!
Flood Facts:

• FEMA reports that in the last 5 years that all 50 states have experienced floods or flash floods.
• 75% of all Presidential disaster declarations are associated with flooding (NOAA)
• Floods can be naturally caused by hurricanes, tropical storms, heavy rains, and flash floods.
• Floods can occur at any time of the year, in any part of the country, anytime of day or night.
• Flood waters can also contain sewage, trash, and other debris. You should never walk or swim in flood waters.
• Flooding is the most common natural disaster in the United States.
• Flooding causes $8 billion in damages each year.
• Flooding can cause significant damage to your home and or business as well as create a health hazard. Indoor flooding also creates an environment for mold and mildew to grow if left untreated.

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas has a highly trained and experienced team ready to combat rising waters in your home or business. Our experienced team is ready to assist you with immediate response and water extraction. We even work with your insurance companies to keep the claims process smooth and painless.

Here is what a previous customer had to say about us after a flood:
“SERVPRO came to the rescue when my house flooded! They arrived the same afternoon, and the employees were able to help me through the entire process. They worked long hours to make sure the project was finished in a timely manner at the convenience of my schedule. I had to request a late visit to have someone check on the progress, and they never hesitated to show up! Thanks, SERVPRO!!” - Crystal L.

We understand that storm damage and flooding can be devastating, that’s why we make it our goal to make it “Like it never even happened.” If your home or business suffers from a flood trust the experienced professionals at SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas.

Give us a call at (912)285-0724

House Fire Caused by Lighting Strike

5/13/2019 (Permalink)

Lighting strikes can cause significant damage to your home or business. Often you will not see signs of the damage at first due to the damage hiding in attics or inside walls. We suggest that after lighting strikes your home that you call the fire department immediately even if you do not see flames or smoke. It is also good to remember to call your electrician after a lighting strike to run electrical diagnostic test.

According to the NFPA from 2007-2011 the U.S. Local fire departments responded to an estimated average of 22,600 fires per year that were started by lightning.

Lighting bolts are estimated to reach up to 50,000 degrees, leaving the odds of having a fire increased if your home or business is struck. SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas have experienced the aftermath of a fire caused by a lighting strike. The odor, the charred insulation within the attic or walls.

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas has an experienced team to handle any size fire or water loss. If your home has been hit by lighting count on SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas to make the fire damage “Like it never even happened.”

Thunderstorm Safety - Tips to Protect against a Lighting Strike

5/13/2019 (Permalink)

Lightning Strike can cause extensive damage to your home or business. Prepare now.

Lightning strikes the planet around 50 times per second, and just one strike can release 1 billion joules of energy. With this amount of energy hitting a house it can cause extreme damage not only to the structure but electronics as well. Lightning strikes are like any other form of natural disaster; they have no direct path - and you are left wondering why your home and why is next door untouched. Lightning strikes and power surges randomly choose their victims.

Understanding ways to better protect your home from a lightning strike include simple steps like unplugging electronics to:

• Installing lightning rods: rods will not stop lightning from striking, but instead help direct lightning safely away from your home; if the rods are installed properly.
• Removing large trees: lightning also tends to travel across the ground, keep taller trees away from the home in case they are stuck and fall on your home.

Like preparing for any natural disaster, check your home or renters insurance to see what is covered after a lightning strike.

If your home or business suffers from a fire or smoke damage after a lightning strike, contact SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas, our teams are experienced fire and water restoration specialist ready to assist you 24/7.

Strong Storms Predicated for the Weekend

4/18/2019 (Permalink)

NOAA Weather Predictions

There is an increased risk for tornadoes as server thunderstorms roll into South Georgia on Friday morning. With the increased risk of thunderstorms, many schools have already been canceled to ensure the safety of all students. 

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas are prepared for whatever happens by having our crews on standby to respond to your home or business after a storm damage occurs. 

If your home is damaged by strong winds, hail, or flood damage call SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas to respond immediately. 

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas offers various storm damage services for residential and commercial clients including:

• Water Damage Restoration
• Board Up's
• Tarping

Board ups and tarping are very important to minimize further damage to the property. SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas are available 24 hours a day 7 days a week. 

(912)285-0724

Preparing Your Home for Spring Storms

4/15/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas in progress of drying out a local apartment complex after a water damage.

Spring brings lots of changes, especially with the weather. A sunny week can be followed by a week of storms, and you will want to be prepared for all these situations.

You will want to do an assessment of your property before heavy rains:

1. Proper Drainage

2. Roof Leaks

3. Window and Door Leaks

Make arrangements as soon as possible for repairs to be done before the rainy season begins.

Thunderstorms cause most of the severe spring weather. Lightning, flooding, and other types of activity will be a part of your spring weather experience, which is caused when warm, moist air collides with cool, dry air. Planning ahead makes sense so that your property and the people you care about can avoid injury and damages.

Here are some things to think about or to have on hand for storms:

• A battery-operated flashlight, with extra batteries.
• A battery-operated, NOAA Weather Radio.
• An emergency evacuation plan. Have a map of your home complete with an escape route in case of a flood. Make sure everyone knows where to go in the event of a disaster.
• Make sure everyone has a list of important contact information, such as:
  Telephone numbers of police and fire departments
  Telephone numbers of family, neighbors, and friends
• Medical information for members of the household
• A First Aid Kit
• Any medications necessary for additional needs
• 3-5-day supply of clean water and non-perishable food
• Blankets, sleeping bags, etc.

Planning ahead before wet weather hits is always a good idea. Call us here at SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas if your property sustains water or flood damage. 

(912)285-0724

When Tornadoes Strike!

4/14/2019 (Permalink)

Tornado season is here! South Georgia is at a moderate risk for tornadoes according to AccuWeather predictions for 2019. Devastating tornadoes have already hit Southwest Georgia and Alabama in early March. 

The SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas are here to help when disaster strikes. We provide various storm-related services such as: 

• Tarping Services
• Board Up Services
• Emergency Water Removal and Dehumidification

We are here to help and are available 24 hours a day, we are prepared for the unpredictable. The SERVPRO Disaster Recovery Team can provide help whether you're dealing with a tornado, hurricane, or flood. The SERVPRO System has a network of strategically positioned storm teams on standby should a disaster strike near you. 

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas can be reached anytime at (912)285-0724

Fire Damage to Local Waycross Complex

4/6/2019 (Permalink)

Late Sunday night our SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas team responded to a kitchen fire that ignited a sprinkler system on the 3rd floor of a local apartment complex. Our team arrived before sunrise and was able to begin immediate water extraction. The sprinkler system did a great job putting out the fire causing minimal fire damage; however the water from the sprinkler system soaked through 3 floors of the building leaving standing water in a few of the rooms.

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas wasted no time in restoring this property from soot, water, and smoke damage. Our highly trained technicians began an immediate plan of action to prevent further damage by extracting all of the standing water. After our teams extracted as much water as possible, we then used our drying technologies to dry out the affected rooms and materials.

Our highly trained crews have the specialized equipment and resources to handle the job, large or small, residential and/or commercial. If you are dealing with fire damage, count on the experienced team at SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas.
Call us today at (912)285-0724

Sewage Backups and Toilet Overflows

4/2/2019 (Permalink)

Sewage backups in your home or business can be caused by a wide range of issues including aging sewage system, combined pipelines, tree roots, sanitary blockages, and even to much rain!

Backups can cause a large and hazardous disaster in your home and should be treated as a very serious situation. The water that is being backed up into these pipes is grossly unsanitary and could contain numerous bacteria and viruses.

Types of water to be involved in a sewage backup or toilet overflow:

• Category 1: “Clean Water” - a broken water supply line like a faucet. If not treated in timeline manor could potentially become Cat 2-3.
• Category 2: “Gray Water” - washer machine overflow, toilet overflow without feces; or dishwasher overflow. May contain bacteria and viruses.
• Category 3: “Black Water” - water from beyond the toilet trap, water from toilet bowl with fecal matter, or standing water that has begun to support microbial growth.

If you need a home inspection to determine if your water damage is contaminated water contact SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas at

(912)285-0724

4 Tips in Choosing a Water Restoration Company

3/5/2019 (Permalink)

We make your water damage “Like it never even happened.”

As a homeowner, you dread the idea of any type of damage occurring. From limbs falling to toilets overflowing; some accidents are just unpreventable. Water intrusion can cause extensive damage to wood, drywall, flooring, upholstery, and furniture. If water damage is not handled properly in a timely manner it can lead to mold growth and the need to remediate the property.

4 Tips When Choosing a Water Restoration Company?

1. Emergency Response: with water damage being time sensitive to prevent future damage, you want to be sure that the water restoration company that you choose is willing to respond to a call 24/7.
2. Willing to Work With Insurance: Insurance can sometimes be hard to navigate. That’s why choosing a restoration company that is willing to discuss the claim with insurance and has knowledge of water restoration terminology is crucial.
3. Highly Trained and Certified: Choose a restoration company that is certified by the IICRC and has ongoing continuing education to learn about the latest drying methods and technologies. Also, consider how long the company has been around and their reputation in the community.
4. Treats You and the Home with Respect: It’s important to find a company you feel that you can trust and that respects you and your belongings.

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas pride themselves in being available to our customers 24/7 for water and fire restoration emergencies. We are confident in working with your insurance companies; we know the terminologies and can help you throughout the claims process. Our SERVPRO team is highly trained and are continuously renewing certifications to stay updated on all fire and water restoration techniques. Last but certainly not least our SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas team will treat you with respect and deliver quality customer services as well as restoration services.

Need assistance today? Contact us 24/7

(912)285-0724

Restoring vs. Replacing

2/28/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas working with you to restore your belongings.

At the SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas we are highly trained water restoration specialist and value restoring versus replacing.

Why is restoring so important to SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas?

1. Peace of Mind - We value your belongings. The SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas takes the time to restore affected items preserving your financial investment as well as family heirlooms and keepsakes.
2. Save Money: Restoring is more cost-effective in the majority of cases due to replacement cost values. For example, it is cheaper to dry and save flooring than to remove and replace it.
3. Return to Normal Quicker: The drying process will return your home to normalcy sooner than replacing materials and working with contractors.
4. Restoring is Environmentally Friendly: by restoring flooring and other items that may be affected by fire or water damage you prevent future items from entering landfills.

Ways we restore vs replace:

1. Documents & Photo Restoration:  Restoring precious documents and photos are crucial, especially if the documents are legally binding. Our SERVPRO document restoration team uses innovate vacuum freeze-drying techniques; in fact, we use the same freeze-drying methods used by the Library of Congress to dry valuable historic documents and books.
2. Electronics: Electronics after a water damage presents a serious safety hazard and should be properly handled. That is why the SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas will coordinate an electrician to look over each effected electronic.
3. Floors: General carpet cleanings by SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas can restore your rugs and carpets after a water loss in the home. Other types of flooring may be tricky depending on the materials used. The SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas team will explain if the flooring if the flooring is salvageable or not depending on moisture and the amount of water that has penetrated the flooring.
4. Furniture: If furniture is damp or has water damage SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas will test a spot on the fabric to see if the item is salvageable through an upholstery cleaning.  

Our #1 goal is returning damaged areas and items to preloss conditions doing all we can to make it “Like it never even happened.” SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas is dedicated to restoring both your property and the normalcy in your lives.

Contact SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas for your water restoration needs

(912)285-0724

Fire Restoration - Before Help Arrives the "Do's and Don'ts"

2/25/2019 (Permalink)

We have compiled a helpful “Do’s + Don’t List” for after a fire and before SERVPRO arrives.

After the flames are ceased and the first responders have cleared the scene; SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas is on their way. We often get the question from the homeowner and/or property managers after a fire “How can I help, or what can I do until SERVPRO arrives?”

DO:

• Limit home traffic to prevent soot particles from being embedded in carpet and spread throughout home.
• Keep your hands clean. By having soot on your hands can further soil walls, upholstery and woodwork.
• When electricity is off- empty out freezer and refrigerator completely. Leave doors to appliance open to prevent future odor.
• Change HVAC filter; but leave system off until a trained professional can check system.
• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers to prevent particles of soot from getting in or out out of the HVAC system.

Don’t:

• Don't attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without first contacting your SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas.
• Don't send garments to the dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set smoke odor into fabric.
• Don’t turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. Wiring may be wet or damaged. This can cause electrical shock and air  movement might cause secondary damage.
• Don’t consume any food or beverage that may have been stored close to fire, heat or water. As for the food may have been contaminated

These emergency tips will assist you in taking proper action until SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas arrives. By following these DOs and DON’Ts you minimize further damages and increase the success of restoration.

Mold Prevention Tips

2/19/2019 (Permalink)

Just the thought of mold growing in your home can be very unsettling.The spores spread easily and grow anywhere: on carpet, paper, and inside walls.

Here are some mold prevention tips for your home:

• LOOK FOR LEAKS: Leaks and flooding aftermath need to be cleaned up and dried as soon as possible to prevent water damage and mold growth. Keep an eye open for stains on ceilings and walls - telltale signs of leaks that are happening behind the scenes. Keep rain gutters clean and in good repair, and make sure water is properly diverted from the foundations and low-lying areas of your house.
• KEEP THINGS DRY: Mold grows where it’s wet and will take over in 24-48 hours. Even leaving wet items lying around the house, such as beach towels and swimsuits, can create a problem. Hang things up to dry.
• MAINTAIN PROPER VENTILATION: Make sure your living areas are properly ventilated. Any appliances that produce moisture need to be vented to the outdoors. Using a dehumidifier is always a good idea; today’s energy-efficient homes can actually hold moisture indoors, so monitoring the humidity levels in your home will help you keep the atmosphere healthy.
• MOLD-RESISTANT PRODUCTS: Anytime you do repairs or renovations, use mold-resistant products such as drywall or sheetrock; many paints on the market today contain mold inhibitors, as well. These paints are especially good for use in bathrooms and laundry areas, for example, where humidity levels will probably be the highest in the home.
• HOUSEPLANTS: Mold is apt to grow on houseplants, so keep leaves clean and dry by wiping down leaves periodically.

In the event that a mold problem has developed in your home, you can contact us here at SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas for help. Our phone number is (912) 264-6094. We are experienced in cleanup projects needed after fire or water damage.

Springing into Fire Safety

2/7/2019 (Permalink)

Fire Extinguisher is a life and property saving tool.

Did you know that 7 people die every day from a home fire.

36 People suffer injuries as a result of home fires every day.

$7 BILLION in property damage occurs every year.

Did you also know that portable fire extinguishers can be life and property saving tool!

Prompt use of the fire extinguisher can easily put small fires out. However, many people are unsure of how to use the tool effectively.  

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) suggest memorizing the word PASS to help the public remember how to operate a fire extinguisher:

Pull the pin. Hold the nozzle pointing away from you and release the locking mechanism.

Aim low. Point the fire extinguisher at the base of the fire.

Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly.

Sweep the nozzle from side-to-side of the fire.

Tips to remember is always beware of smoke. If the room begins to be filled with smoke making it hard to see and/or breath you should immediately find safety and let emergency crews fight the flames.

If fire and water damage take control over your life, SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas will help you take it back.

Participating in National Law Enforcement Day

1/17/2019 (Permalink)

Thank to all first responders. Image from our First Annual Emergency Prep Event.

National Law Enforcement Day was celebrated on January 9 of this year. SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas continue to show our appreciation to all of these brave men and women that put their lives on the line to keep our communities safe. 

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas are continuously invested in First Responders all year round. You will find us partnering with local agencies for preparedness fairs as well as dropping off sweet and hydrating treats for first responders as well as care packages for recently displaced fire victims.

Want to help celebrate First Responders?

1. Keep them hydrated: Take cases of bottle water or athletic drinks to all of your local stations.
2. Goodies are always welcome: Pack “Go Bags” of snacks like fruit, protein bars, nuts, and water into a baggy. These are great for all of our busy first responders.
3. Coffee! Need we say more? Whether it is the night shift or day shift caffeine is always a hit with first responders working long hours.
4. Words of gratitude: If it’s a thank you card or handshake.

Thank a first responder today!

Why Have Your Carpets Cleaned by a Professional

1/11/2019 (Permalink)

Whether it’s in a home or office SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas carpet cleaning specialists are HERE to HELP. SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas has gathered a list of reasons why you should have your carpets and rugs cleaned every 12-18 months by industry leading professional.

1. Stains and Odors: Don’t sweat the small thing like SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas can make those horrendous stains like they never even happened.
2. Prolong the life of the carpet: Did you know having your carpets routinely cleaned will help protect your floor covering investment as well as the wear and tear.
3. Prevent buildup of dust and other allergens: Soiled carpets are a great place for bedbugs, fleas, and bacteria to make their home. By having your carpets steamed cleaned will eliminate buildup
4. Enhances the overall appearance of the room. A clean and well-kept carpets speak volumes to visitors.

Maintain that fresh + clean look and feel by scheduling a carpet cleaning with the SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas.

Need a Carpet  Cleaning?
Call Today – (912) 452-2562

Dryer Fire at Local Hotel

1/7/2019 (Permalink)

Dryer fire at local hotel with minimal damage thanks to fast response of employees and fire department.

Dryer fire caused damage to local Jesup hotel late last week. The fire was under control thanks to alert employees at the hotel who detected smoke and called emergency officials. The fire department was able to extinguish the flames and all individuals were safely able to exit the hotel.

The SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas arrived at the scene early morning to find water damage and smoke damage effecting small amounts of the corridor and laundry room. Water extraction began immediately to avoid further damage. SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas continue to work diligently to restore this property. However, we are happy to report that the hotel remains open and running thanks to the fast response of the local fire department.

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas would like to remind everyone about dryer safety and the importance of getting your dryer vents cleaned. With the buildup of lint in your dryer vents can highly increase your chances of a fire. Schedule your commercial or residential dryer vent cleaning today with the SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas.

(912) 285-0724

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas assist with a large loss in Valdosta.

1/7/2019 (Permalink)

Historic church faces minimal damage after fire due to precautions and fast response of fire department.

The SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas were privileged enough to help restore a historic Downtown Valdosta Church. Only weeks before Christmas, a fire started on the upper floor of the church; luckily the fire was well maintained due to precautions of fire doors and walls the church had installed. The damage was minimal thanks to the fast response of the Valdosta Fire Department.

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas was one of four SERVPRO Franchises to assist with restoration and recovery efforts at the church. SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas helped with supply and removal of soot within the church. A timeline of Christmas approaching all of the participating SERVPRO teams had a goal to have the church restored in pre-fire conditions before their Christmas services.

By having the SERVPRO resources we were able to meet this goal and come together as a team with one vision for this historic church to make this fire damage “Like it never even happened."

Christmas Coat Drive in Brunswick GA

12/18/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas knows the importance of giving back to our community.

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas hosted a coat drive for the second year in a row for Safe Harbor Children's Center in Brunswick, GA. We were blessed enough to gift 23 wish list items to the children and teen of Safe Harbor. 

What is Safe Harbor Children’s Center?

For over 25 years, Safe Harbor Children’s Center has helped more than 4,000 children seeking shelter and refuge. Safe Harbor’s mission is to provide shelter and therapeutic services to children any age under 18 who have been abused, abandoned or neglected; who are homeless or have run away from home; or who are otherwise at risk or feel threatened.

Ways you can help Safe Harbor Children’s Center?

Volunteers help carry out the mission at Safe Harbor through mentoring programs and fun activities for the youth to do. To find out more about volunteering or to start the enrollment process go to https://www.safeharborcenterinc.org/volunteer/.

Donations are one of the most-important means of support for Safe Harbor. Without valuable contributions of goods and funds from generous people and organizations, Safe Harbor would not be able to help hundreds of children escape violence, abuse and neglect each year. To find out more about donating to Safe Harbor, visit https://www.safeharborcenterinc.org/make-a-donation/

Winter Home Care

12/12/2018 (Permalink)

If your home, building or unit is in need of carpet care, don't hesitate to give SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas a call.

With the holidays approaching and the upcoming new year, you might be looking around at some maintenance projects around your home or place of business that you were putting off longer than you wanted. You're not alone. A lot of us want to get projects done as soon as possible. A great way to start is by cleaning and deodorizing your carpets and rugs with SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas.

Residential Rug and Carpet Service

It seems like spring cleaning gets all the attention, but getting your floors cleaned in winter is also important. Ideally, you'd want to clean those floors before the holidays set in to get them ready for guests coming over to your home for Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years. Maybe you were able to do that in time for the holidays, but maybe you weren't. If not, that's okay!

A post-holiday cleanup is a great idea too because no matter how clean your carpets were before those Christmas and New Year's parties, they still need to be cleaned and deodorized.

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas is here to get the job done right. We'll give your home the same amount of attention and TLC that we give to ours. We'll get those floors and rugs looking as good as new. All those spots from spilled drinks and plates of food won't stand a chance against us!

If you're in the real estate industry and are looking for professional cleaners who are bonded, insured and ready to get your properties move-in ready, we're the company to call. Our friendly, experienced staff will get things ready to your specifications in time for your upcoming photo shoots and open house showings.

Commercial Carpet Cleaning and Deodorization Service

SERVPRO of  Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas also serves commercial clients, including retail stores and office buildings. And if you have multiple locations and are in need of a high-volume service, we can still take care of all your cleaning needs.

You want a clean and sanitary environment for your workers and customers, and that's what we want too. Nobody takes carpet cleaning and deodorization more seriously than we do. Once you've worked with us, you won't want to work with any other company. Give SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas a call to set up a quote today.

Call Today – (912) 285-0724

Commonly Missed Cleaning Spots Inside the Home

12/5/2018 (Permalink)

From blinds to interior doors. Learn the most overlooked cleaning areas in the home.

Any disaster leaves great destruction in its wake. This is why it is important to clean up once normalcy returns. Thorough cleaning of your home will help you get rid of any items that pose health and safety hazards. If you are to ensure that your space is clean, it is important to be aware of the commonly missed cleaning locations around the home.

Beneath the fridge

While most people focus on making sure that the inside of their fridge is clean, do you know how much dirt can accumulate beneath the appliance? Proper home maintenance requires that you move your fridge and clean this area to prevent a buildup of bacteria and dirt.

Under large pieces of furniture

Since it takes a lot of time and effort to move large and bulky pieces of furniture, there is a good chance you will not clean the area when wiping your floor. As a result, dust is known to accumulate in this area, a factor associated with being unclean. If you want to make your work easier, you should clean such areas regularly.

Light switches, door knobs and handles

These areas of your home are touched on a daily basis. Wiping them will prevent the spread of bacteria and germs.

Under the couch cushions

Some of your activities while at home will result in dirt and debris accumulating in unexpected areas. If you are fond of snacking on the couches, crumbs can buildup underneath the cushions, compromising the cleanliness of your home.

Interior doors

While this area is commonly missed when cleaning, your interior doors attract both dirt and dust over time. This is why experts recommend that you have them cleaned at least once every month. Make sure that the door frames are also wiped if you want to leave your home feeling fresh and welcoming.

Window blinds

Home maintenance is all about making sure that the overall cleanliness of your space is observed and maintained. Window blinds cover a large area, making it easy for dust to accumulate on them. Since this makes it hard to clean them, you should consider hiring the services of a cleaning company such as SERVPRO of Waycross / Hinesville / Douglas.

Keeping your home clean does not end with the clean-up exercise. It is a daily routine that requires commitment from all family members. Enhancing the comfort you enjoy at home will also involve making repairs in case of defects.

Need help with your upcoming cleaning projects?

Give us a call – (912) 574-2355

Deodorize kitchen odors naturally before the Holidays

12/3/2018 (Permalink)

Everyone loves a clean kitchen, but there are certain areas in the kitchen that can trap odors. Even though you might clean your kitchen thoroughly, you might have a problem with lingering odors that regular cleaning can't get rid of. Here are four common problem areas in the kitchen and how you can deodorize them with safe, non-toxic solutions.

GARBAGE CAN
One of the first candidates for odor removal for any kitchen is the garbage can. One way to keep smells out is to throw smelly items straight into a garbage can outside of the kitchen, such as a can in the garage. If that's not possible, try putting vanilla or baking soda into the bottom of a kitchen trash bag. If the smell persists, you can wipe down the inside of the trash can with a 4:1 mixture of water and lemon juice.

KITCHEN SINK
If you've cleaned the kitchen sink and it still has lingering odors, it might be caused by rotting gunk in the garbage disposal. A good method of odor removal in the disposal is to cut up any citrus fruit such as lemon or lime, toss the pieces into the disposal, and grind them up. The acid in the citrus will disinfect the disposal with no harmful side effects.

MICROWAVE
The microwave can trap odors from meals you’ve recently cooked, leading to some strong smells. Citrus can be used here as well! You can use a leftover juiced or zested citrus fruit. Put them in a glass bowl, fill half the bowl with hot water, add some lemon juice, and microwave it for three or four minutes. The steam can also help loosen any food caked on the inside of the microwave so that you will be able to wipe it off.

REFRIGERATOR
The final place which can collect odors in the kitchen is the refrigerator. Here, when food goes bad, it can leave behind the smell long after the source is thrown away. You can reduce odors by wiping the fridge walls with a mixture of vinegar and water. Another solution between cleanings is to keep an open box of baking soda inside the refrigerator.

If you have a serious problem removing odors from your kitchen that you can't fix on your own, SERVPRO of Wacross, Hinesville, and Douglas is an expert at restoration and cleaning. Give us a call!

Need Cleaning Services?
Call Us Today – (912) 285-0724

Freshly- Cut Christmas Tree Care

11/28/2018 (Permalink)

The smell of pine feeling the aroma in your home, truly makes it feel like the Holidays have arrived. Maybe it is your first year with a real tree, or possibly you just want to learn more about caring for the tree. We have you covered by a compiled list of tree care tips!

Keeping the Christmas tree fresh and alive:

1. A freshly cut tree trunk needs to have the spores exposed on the bottom allowing the tree to soak up nutrients. If you buy a tree from a lot before you leave ask them to saw of 2 inchs of the trunk to make it freshly opened spores.

2. According to the Old Farmers Almanac a freshly cut Christmas tree consumes a gallon of water every 24-hours. A helpful tip for keeping your tree watered is to fill the base with a well watered soil.

3. A key for keeping your Christmas tree alive is to avoid placing it on top of heating and cooling vents. 

Along with the fun that a freshly-cut Christmas tree can bring into a home, there is also many dangerous to keep in mind.

Dangerous to avoid with a freshly- cut Christmas tree:

1. Water, water, and more water. The best fire safety tip for freshly- cut trees are water. Without water your tree is producing oxogen and drying out.

2. Avoid placing the tree next to fireplaces, candles, and lights.

3. When your tree starts to shed needles and dry out, its time to toss it out. The longer the tree sits inside the home with falling needles, the risk of a home fire increases.

4. Make sure your Christmas lights have been lab tested and there are no broken lights.

5. Always turn off Christmas lights before going to bed or leaving your home.

For more helpful tips regarding Christmas Tree safety go to the NFPA for a free printable safety sheet.

Hurricane Michael

11/28/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas setting up board up equipment after Hurricane Michael

Hurricane Michael was one of the strongest storms to hit the Florida Panhandle to ever be recorded. With sustained winds reaching up to 155mph while making landfall leading it to be the first ever Category 4 Hurricane to reach the Panhandle; while breaking national records for the fourth strongest storm to reach the United States. Sadly, Hurricane Michael was a deadly storm and claimed 6 lives throughout Florida and Georgia.

As the SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas wrapped up efforts in North Carolina after Hurricane Florence we were soon dispatched to help bring generators and other equipment to South Georgia after they were hit by Hurricane Michael. After emergency crews cleared roadways and cleared it safe for disaster recovery crews to enter Florida the SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas headed for Mexico Beach, Florida. We were truly heartbroken after seeing the destruction that Hurricane Michael brought onto these cities. People without homes, food, and power. We witnessed the grace of our Nation and the unity we all share when we face disaster. Tents were set up to pass out food, shelters were set up to cover those who lost their homes, people came all across the United States to lend a helping hand. The SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas quickly sprung into action by setting up drying equipment, tarping roofs, and boarding up windows to prevent further damage.

Thank you to all of the amazing first responders like the American Red Cross, Salvation Army, National Guard, Firefighters, Police Officers, Patrolmen, Linmen, Dispatchers, EMT’s and Paramedics, Doctors, Nurses, SERVPRO Disaster Recovery Teams, and for all of the countless volunteers that gave their time to HELP.

We remain #FloridaStrong in the days ahead of the restoration and recovery process.

Don't Put up Seasonal Decor in a Dirty Office - Let SERVPRO help

11/20/2018 (Permalink)

For your business to look great during the Holiday's you must showcase all of the seasonal decor as well as having a clean office to enjoy it in. With seasonal decor you can often create a  overcrowded environment avoid this by having a clean office. 

The most wonderful time of the year is also the busiest time of the year. You may be busy wrapping up the end of the year projects at work or attending holiday office parties. To help get your business ahead of the curve schedule a carpet or a tile and grout cleaning service.

Clean and deodorize your office to smell its Holiday best.

With increased foot traffic in your business you need your office smelling fresh. The science of identifying and eliminating odors can be a tricky thing, so give us a call, and leave the restoration to us.

Clean your office before the Holidays take-over

Before your favorite office visitor in the big red suit arrives load up all of the office furniture for a deep yearly cleaning. 

No matter your schedule, SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas are available for commercial cleaning services. Get in contact with us today if you need a refresh!

Have Questions? Call Today – (912) 285-0724

Keeping Kitchen Safety Top of Mind for Thanksgiving 2018

11/18/2018 (Permalink)

Take measures to have a safe Thanksgiving in your Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas area home.

The kitchen is the heart and soul of the home, especially during Thanksgiving. With all of the chefs in the kitchen it’s important to keep kitchen safety top of mind. Thanksgiving is the leading day of the year for home fires involving cooking equipment. In 2016, U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated 1,570 home cooking fires on Thanksgiving. Because of this we compiled a list of safety tips to

Safety tips

• Stay in the kitchen when you are cooking on the stovetop so you can keep an eye on the food.
• Stay in the home when cooking your turkey and check on it frequently.
• Keep the floor clear so you don’t trip over kids, toys, pocketbooks or bags.
• Be sure electric cords from an electric knife, coffee maker, plate warmer or mixer are not dangling off the counter within easy reach of a child.
• Never leave children alone in room with a lit candle.
• Make sure your smoke alarms are working. Test them by pushing the test button.
• Keep kiddos out of the kitchen for Thanksgiving by having activities planned like games, puzzles or books can keep them busy. Kids can get involved in Thanksgiving preparations with recipes that can be done outside the kitchen.
• Make sure kids stay away from hot food and liquids. The steam or splash from vegetables, gravy or coffee could cause serious burns.
• Keep matches and utility lighters out of the reach of children — up high in a locked cabinet.
• Keep knives out of the reach of children.

Enjoy a safe holiday season! Happy Thanksgiving from our SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas family to yours!

Source: National Fire Protection Association

Stages of Fire Damage

11/9/2018 (Permalink)

Fire damage restoration

Step 1: Emergency Contact

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas is a 24/7 company that never sleeps- we are here for your emergency no matter the time or day. Why is getting immediate assistance better than waiting? The truth is the faster you get to a fire damage minimize further damage or possible secondary damage from the water used to extinguish the flames.  Or if the flames tarnished your roof than you are in a position where you are in need of immediate assistance from a fire damage restoration specialist to tarp your roof; tarping your roof is important to protect your home from rain and other environmental factors.

Step 2: Assessment

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas will then assess the extent of the damage to property. This involves how far the fire, smoke, and soot traveled throughout the home and if any furniture or clothing was affected. This is an important step to understand the damage to better assess the cost of the restoration process.

Step 3: Clean up

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas will then establish power to the home if needed by using a generator and begin the restoration process of removing any smoke, dust, and soot from the surfaces in your home. All while the cleanup process is ongoing the SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas team will be extracting any excess water and sanitize and dry those areas of your home. Once the water is extracted and the debris are removed our team will then tackle the stench that the smoke has left behind in the home.

Step 4: Consultation

Following the completion of your fire damage the SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas team may request a ‘debriefing’ consultation on how to prevent future fires and to go over all of the work that was completed within the home to guarantee customer satisfaction.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – (912) 285-0724

SERVPRO in the Community

11/1/2018 (Permalink)

Want SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas come to your public safety event or to host a seminar for your HOA or board leaders?

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas is proud of the ongoing investment in the communities in which they serve. Being apart of several committees, organizations, and community action programs. 

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas is helping our community stay prepared for storms and tips to avoid water damages as well as fire damages. In 2018 we hosted various presentations, seminars, and held a Emergency Preparedness Event to help aid community awareness of key emergency action plans needed in each household and business. 

Want SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas come to your public safety event or to host a seminar for your HOA or board leaders? 

Contact us today at (912)285-0724

We are proud to serve our local communities:

• Waycross, GA
• Hinesville, GA
• Douglas, GA
• Jesup, GA
• Blackshear, GA
• Baxley, GA
• Walthoursville, GA
• Ludowici, GA
• Patterson, GA
• Midway, GA

Plan Ahead for Commercial Cleaning

10/22/2018 (Permalink)

When it’s time for cleaning projects to be completed, make sure you have received a checklist from the cleaning company that helps you get ready for the job. Every area of your property is different with unique requirements, and your cleaning company will want you to be ready for them.

When it comes to your business, there are a few jobs that you should probably plan for on a regular basis:

LOBBY OR RECEPTION AREA: Since this is the first area anyone sees when they come to your place of business, it should be kept in pristine shape at all times, undergoing daily cleaning and spot checks throughout the day. In addition to keeping it clean and tidy at all times, a routine deep cleaning should be done regularly, keeping weather conditions in mind. Recessed lighting, high shelves, and carpeting are all items that will need special attention on a regular basis here.

OFFICES AND CUBICLES: These areas can get dusty easily since electronics attract dust, so desks can be cleared of all machinery and work-related items and cleaned thoroughly. They also need to be disinfected regularly to discourage office-wide illnesses. The flooring in these areas needs a routinely-scheduled cleaning, as well, to keep the whole space looking great. HVAC vents will require attention here, as well as windows, both inside and out.

BATHROOMS AND KITCHEN: These areas, like the ones at home, see a lot of traffic, and can get pretty unattractive quickly. Daily maintenance can do a lot to keep things clean, but scheduling routine heavy-duty cleaning will ensure that healthy conditions are maintained. Surfaces used for food preparation, counters in the bathroom, toilets, and flooring are all things people come in contact with every day and should be cleaned thoroughly on a regular basis.

Here at SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas, we’re experienced in commercial cleaning projects, and happy to help. We also handle cleanup jobs after fire and water damage, and mold remediation is one of our specialties. 

Have Questions? Call Us Today – (912) 285-0724

Campfire Season Safety

10/22/2018 (Permalink)

These campfire safety tips could save someone's life! Have fun but be careful!

With the temperatures drop we all are quick to start a campfire and begin to relax.  However, anytime there is a fire, there is a risk of fire damage. With a campfire, the two primary concerns are falling into the fire and the fire escaping and burning the surrounding area. The good news is that there are a few simple things that can help you and your family to stay safe around the fire.

Before building a fire, you should make sure that it is safe and permissible to build the fire. Though there are a number of factors to consider, a general rule is that campfires should not be built when wind speeds are above 15 mph. Campfires are at lower risk of spreading when it is raining, the ground is wet or the temperature is low. In severely dry conditions, governmental authorities may ban all burning. A quick call to a park ranger, fire department or the police should help you to determine if there is a burning ban.

Tripping and falling into the fire is one of the most serious risks of a campfire, especially when children are present. Before building the fire, the area around the fire should be cleared of logs, large rocks and anything else that may cause a person to trip. Parents should closely watch children and forbid them from running or playing near the fire. A 10-foot circle around the fire should be cleared of any flammable objects, including vegetation. Fires should only be built in fire rings that are on level surfaces to decrease the chances of injury or the fire spreading.

It is important that you make certain that the campfire is fully extinguished before leaving the fire or going to sleep. Large chunks of wood will burn for a long period of time and should not be added to the fire late at night. When putting the fire out, you should knock the wood down flat on the ground. Water should be poured over the fire and the coals and wood turned on the wet ground to extinguish both sides. Only after the fire is cool to the touch is it safe to be left alone.

Whether it’s a campfire or a home furnace, a little bit of fire damage prevention can help to ensure a safe experience. However, the fire damage experts here at SERVPRO of WAYCROSS, Hinesville, and Douglas  are ready to help if your home or other structure is damaged by fire.

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions. When various materials burn, the soot and residue they create differs greatly and requires a specific cleaning procedure. The steps listed below illustrate our process for the “typical” fire damage restoration. Learn more about our fire damage restoration process.

1. Emergency Contact
2. Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment
3. Immediate Board-Up and Roof Tarp Service (if needed)
4. Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)
5. Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces
6. Cleaning and Repair
7. Restoration

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – (912) 285-0724

3 Tips to Keep Your Garage Clean and Safe

10/16/2018 (Permalink)

Take advantage of extra space in your garage and begin organizing today.

Garages are essential places where people store vehicles, bicycles, motorbikes, and other things. We keep lots of valuable things in our garages, so let's make sure it's a safe and organized area! How do you use your garage? Some store children’s equipment, boxes, and other miscellaneous items. Regardless of what is there, a garage should be neat and tidy.

To create more space in your garage, you have to keep it organized. Move everything you feel is out of place to create more space for your vehicles and important items. We advise our customers to observe the following tips to keep garages clean, safe, and organized throughout the year.

Get Rid of Unnecessary Things

Before cleaning your garage, you should cut unnecessary things and keep them in the right place. Consider hiring a qualified contractor to build shelves on the walls of the garage. You will store your items safely on the shelves.

Clean the Garage

After getting rid of extraneous items in the garage, the cleaning can begin. Our services at SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglasare affordable. We will transform your personal or professional garage into a clean place for your vehicles and other items.

Mitigate Fire Hazards

If you have flammable liquids stored in your garages, be careful! Fire can erupt in some situations. You should have effective measures to curb these challenges when they happen. However, the best thing is to prevent the fire from erupting by performing the following activities:

• Avoid overloading circuits

• Clean oil spills immediately

• Keep flammable substances away from electrical appliances

At SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas, we offer both commercial and residential cleaning and restoration services. Our customer care team is available 24/7.

What to Know About Tropical Storm Michael

10/8/2018 (Permalink)

NOAA- Key Messages for Tropical Storm Michael

Tropical Storm Michael is set to hit the Gulf Coast early Wednesday morning and travel across South Georgia. Meteorologist Karen Minton from WSB-TV Channel 2 says "5AM Update shows it is increasing in intensity. Sustained winds now 70 mph. It will become a hurricane later today. Expected to make landfall along Florida panhandle or Big Bend area on Wednesday and moving across GA WED PM/Thurs".

It's important to stay informed and prepared while we prepare for Tropical Storm Michael to increase to a possible hurricane. Florida Governor Rick Scott declared state of emergency as the storm approaches and says "this storm will be life-threatening and extremely dangerous".

Continue to stay prepared:

Be prepared to evacuate quickly and know your routes and destinations. Find a local emergency shelter. Check your emergency kit and replenish any items missing or in short supply, especially medications or other medical supplies. Keep it nearby.

Other tips for hurricane prep include: Fill plastic bottles with clean water for drinking. Fill bathtubs and sinks with water for flushing the toilet or washing the floor or clothing. Fill your car's gas tank, in case an evacuation notice is issued. Turn off propane tanks and unplug small appliances. Bring in anything that can be picked up by the wind, such as bicycles and patio furniture.

After the storm hits:

Storm and flood damage require specialized restoration techniques and equipment. When a storm hits your Waycross home, you need the company with storm damage experience and expertise. SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas can respond immediately to storm and flooding conditions.

Have Storm or Flood Damage?
Call Us Today (912) 285-0724

Before, During, and After a Storm Hits

10/8/2018 (Permalink)

Before, During, and After a hurricane. Stay prepared.

Hurricanes can leave you vulnerable to major losses to your home and/or business.  Hurricanes typically stretch 300 miles, so the spread of damage can be drastic. 
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Here are some key tips to keep in mind before, during, and after a storm.

Before the storm:

• Listen to local area radio
• Be prepared to evacuate
• Check your emergency kit and replenish as needed

During the storm:

• Stay indoors
• Use flashlights instead of candles
• Continue to monitor the storm by listening to local radio
• Avoid floodwater due to possible contamination 

After the Storm:

• Stay alert for extended rainfall
• If evacuated, return only when authorities say it is safe to return 
• Contact a professional to ensure property is safety

Storm and flood damage require specialized restoration techniques and equipment. When a storm hits your Waycross home, you need the company with storm damage experience and expertise. SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas can respond immediately to storm and flooding conditions.

Have Storm or Flood Damage?
Call Us Today (912) 285-0724

Time For A Professional Dryer Vent Cleaning!

9/18/2018 (Permalink)

Need a Dryer Vent Cleaning? Contact SERVPRO

Frustrated your clothes aren’t drying as fast as they used to? Beware of the possible hidden danger of heat being blocked from getting into your dryer. Did you know that dryer vent fires are one of the leading causes of house fires in the U.S.

According to the U.S. Fire Administration clothing dryers are reported to cause 2,900 home fires each year. With the leading cause of clothing dryer fires being neglect to having the dryers cleaned.

The U.S. Fire Administration also has  some helpful tips for clothing dryer safety:

Cleaning:

• Clean the lint filter before and after each load of laundry.
• Clean lint out of the vent pipe every three months.
• Have your dryer cleaned regularly by a professional, especially if it is taking longer than normal for clothes to dry.

Maintenance:

• Inspect the venting system behind the dryer to ensure it is not damaged or restricted.
• Put a covering on outside wall dampers to keep outrain, snow and dirt.
• Make sure the outdoor vent covering opens when the dryer is on.

Read more helpful dryer safety tips at USFA.

Did you know that SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas cleans dryer vents?

Let’s be proactive and schedule a dryer vent cleaning today! Dryer vent fires are more likely to occur in the fall and winter months with more bulky clothes being dried. 

(912)285-0724

Let Us Create You a Emergency Ready Plan - FREE!

9/18/2018 (Permalink)

Inside look at the Ready Plan app. Get yours at the App Store

Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can prevent further damage after a fire or water damage.

The SERVPRO - Emergency Ready Plan is a mobile app that is perfect for homeowners, property managers, and business owners!

The Ready Plan app allows you to create individual emergency ready profiles for all of your properties. Which in turn saves you time after a disaster. By completing the Emergency Ready Plan app you can request restoration and remediation services by clicking one button within the app. One button and the fire damage and water restoration professionals are on there way to you- and you are back to breathing a sigh of relief knowing that your property is in trusted hands.

As a trusted leader in the restoration industry, SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas provides 24-hour residential and commercial services. As a locally owned and operated business, we’re dedicated to being faster to any size disaster, with the training, equipment, and expertise to handle your restoration and cleaning needs.

• 24-Hour Emergency Service
• Faster to Any Size Disaste
• Highly Trained Restoration Technicians
• A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry
• Locally Owned and Operated
• Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment

The Emergency Ready Plan app is a immediate plan of action that allows you to put crucial property information in before a disaster strikes - allowing less downtime and business interruption.

No one plans on a disaster, but with the SERVPRO- Ready Plan app you can be ready for whatever happens!

SERVPRO offers the Emergency Ready Plan app completely free of charge- this is our way of making sure our community is safe and well taken care of. SERVPRO is always HERE TO HELP.

Need help putting together your Emergency Ready Profile? Contact our team today for assistance.

912.285.0724

Preparing for Hurricane Florence

9/13/2018 (Permalink)

Photo credit to NOAA and the National Weather Service.

With Hurricane Florence’s uncertain path we encourage everyone to get prepared with what could possibly be life saving tips!

Ways to be prepared:

1. Get weather alerts And important information in your county:

• Ware County
• Pierce County
• Coffee County
• Wayne County
• Liberty County
• Appling County
• Bacon County
• Long County

2. Contact SERVPRO of Wacross, Hinesville, and Douglas to create a Emergency Ready Plan for when a disaster strikes your home or business. Getting you back to business faster with little to no down time.

• Emergency Ready Plans are a FREE service that SERVPRO gives to the community. The Ready Plan compiles vital information for your property to get back to pre-storm conditions. For example the app compiles property photos and characteristics, water shutoff valves location, and other key property information that influences the restoration process.

• The Emergency Ready Plan allows for you to request service by pressing a button! One button and we are on our way to make it “Like it never even happened”
  Begin your Emergency Ready Plan by downloading the app from the App Store.

3. Create your Hurricane Preparedness Kits. Find a good reference list by clicking here.

Preparation is key in event of any storm. Prepare your home, prepare your business, and most of all prepare your family!

If you find your home or business affected by storm damage contact SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas to make it “Like it never even happened”

Call us today to help you get prepared at 912.285.0724

1st Annual Emergency Preparedness Event - Waycross 2018

9/4/2018 (Permalink)

Passing out Hurricane Preparedness Kits to families in Ware and surrounding counties.

On Saturday, August 25 SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas hosted the 1st Annual Emergency Preparedness Event of Waycross! The event was held outsidethe Mall @ Waycross. The event was designed to educate community members on the importance of getting prepared prior to emergencies; and to familiarize the community of first responders and other emergency response personals that service Ware and surrounding counties.

The event was a huge success and SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas passed out over 100 Hurricane Readiness kits! Items were donated by SERVPRO and other local businesses like Robert Wallace - Allstate and Dental Care Associates.

We would like to thank all of the first responders that came outset up interactive booths:

• Air EVAC
• American Red Cross
• Georgia Family Outdoors
• Georgia State Patrol
• Ware County Community Emergency Response Team (CERT)
• Ware County Emergency Management Agency (EMA)
• Ware County EMS
• Ware CountyFire
• Ware County Sheriff
• Ware County 911
• Waycross Fire
• Waycross Police

Another special thank you goes out to our food vendors like Chickflia of Waycross, Jonesy on the Go, and Sno Biz of Waycross. Thank you for your support in our community.

We are looking forward to growing this event for next year and involving more emergency response teams and vendors. If you are interested please contact our Waycross office at 912-285-0724

September is National Preparedness Month

9/4/2018 (Permalink)

Prepare now. Learn how.

September is Emergency Preparedness Month (EPM),an annual event sponsored by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to raise awareness about the importance of advance preparation for the unexpected.

Using the theme, “Disasters Happen. Prepare Now. Learn How,” they encourage individuals, families, businesses, and communities to train on how to respond when disaster strikes and what to do during an emergency, whether at home, at work, in school, or in a place of worship. This preparedness will also help first responders to do their jobs.

FEMA's National Preparedness Month Social Media Toolkit gives you key preparedness and marketing messaging and links to graphics that you can print in your newsletter or share on your social media channels by copying the messages directly or customizing them to reach your particular audience.

The Weekly Themes for 2018 are:

Week 1: September 1 through the 8 Make and Practice Your Plan

Week 2: Sept 9 through 15 Learn Life Saving Skills

Week 3: Sept 16 through 22 Check Your Coverage

Week 4: Sept 23 through 29 Save For an Emergency

You can share such important issues as preparing for an emergency, having an evacuation plan, how to sign up for local emergency alerts, skills you need to aid those in need until help can arrive, tips such as flood-proofing important documents by placing them in plastic bags to protect against water damage, and so many more ideas including, importantly, how to beware of scams and frauds when you later seek disaster assistance.

FEMA also has online training to help get everyone prepared, learn the five key actions you can take to save a life, and help to plan a preparedness event for the community.

After the disaster, your locally owned and operated SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas Residential and Commercial Restoration and Cleaning Service will be standing by with their 24-hour emergency highly-trained technicians, equipment, and expertise to help with storm, water, fire, mold, or any other damage and cleaning needs. They are one of more than 1,700 expert franchises in the United States and Canada.

SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas also realizes that lost productivity and revenue can be devastating to your business and prides itself on being able to get your commercial property up and running again quickly.

How often should my Air Ducts and HVAC unit get cleaned?

8/21/2018 (Permalink)

Notice the amount of debris and dust that can build up on the sides of the Air Ducts if not cleaned regularly.

A question we get often is- “How often should I have my air ducts and HVAC unit cleaned?”

We recommend that your air ducts get inspected for a cleaning every 3-5 years. Schedule a free inspection today by calling (912)285-0724

Benefits of having your Air Ducts and HVAC Cleaned- is to improve ventilation in the home and improve air quality. If your unit has been operating without attention, it could be circulating one or more of the following through your home:

• Dust
• Pollen
• Odors
• Dirt and Debris
• Other Contaminants

Another benefit of cleaning your HVAC unit is it will help extend the life of the equipment and could help avoid costly repairs in the future.

When is the best time to get your HVAC system and Air Ducts cleaned?
Besides servicing your unit every three to five years you should also keep in mind the utilization of the unit. The best time of the year to get your unit cleaned is early Fall or Spring, after you have decreased using your HVAC system to cool or heat your property. When you see the leaves starting to change in Early Fall or have entered the Spring Cleaning call SERVPRO to clean your Air Ducts and HVAC unit.

Call SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas and start breathing in cleaner air in your home. Schedule a free estimate of services today!

(912)285-0724

1st Annual Emergency Preparedness Event of Waycross

7/16/2018 (Permalink)

We are excited to have all of these great community members and heroes to be a part of our event.

Looking for something FUN and FREE to do with the entire family in Waycross, Georgia? Look no further and mark your calendars for August25th from 10:30AM to 3:30 PM for the First Annual Emergency Preparedness Event!This event will be aimed at helping the community in preparation for the 2018Hurricane Season. Join us in building or adding to your emergency preparedness kit https://www.ready.gov/build-a-kit (while supplies last). Interact with WARE-Waycross’s Finest at Waycross Fire Department, Ware County EMS, Ware County Sheriff’s Department, Waycross Police Department, Georgia State Patrol,Ware Emergency Management Agency (EMA), Ware Community Emergency Response Team(CERT), and the American Red Cross! This event will be set up very similar to touch a truck with interactive booths and flashing lights! This event is open to Ware and surrounding counties. Food trucks and games will be present for a day of family fun and learning at The Mall @Waycross.

Storm-Proofing Your Shed

7/16/2018 (Permalink)

With summer’s stormy weather upon us, home and business owners have many things to be aware of when it comes to possible property damages. Once your main building or your home is safe from potential issues that can arise during inclement weather, make sure you take some time to secure your outlying buildings, such as storage units and sheds.

Oftentimes, a unit like this will be at the back of your property under trees or near fence lines, so an inspection of that area will be something that can be worth your time. If the surrounding trees are large and have branches that are not healthy, removing them before storms hit can alleviate any damage there. If the tree itself is leaning or looks like it might not last the storm season out, contact a tree removal service as soon as possible and have the tree taken out.

A sturdy fence in good repair is a great way to secure your property from many potential problems. If the fence falls over onto your shed or storage unit, it can possibly create holes in the walls, allowing rain or snow to get into the space and damage the items stored there.

An inspection of the roof of your storage shed is, of course, something you will want to complete on a regular basis, and especially before rainy seasons. Make sure any doors or windows are properly sealed and unbroken. The ground area surrounding the unit needs to be well-drained also so that your storage space doesn’t sit in water and become unstable, or worse yet - develop a mold issue that could be very difficult to handle during wet months.

Here at SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas, we are dedicated to the business and homeowners in our area. We are the ones to call for help with water and fire damage, and we are also mold remediation experts! Visit our website: SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas or give us a call: (912) 285-0724.

Preventing Water Damage in Your Basement

7/3/2018 (Permalink)

The best way to prevent water damage in your basement is to be aware. Take time to look around, especially after rainy weather, and check for signs of any problem. Damage to the basement and foundation areas of a home are extremely important to repair as soon as possible in order to avoid larger structural and property damages in the future, which can end up costing far more in the long run.

Here are some things to look for:

• Changes in the color or texture of surfaces. In a finished basement, wallpaper or paint might be peeling away or appear discoloured. Check for bowing in the walls, which can be a result of long-term seepage. When the basement is unfinished, you will want to look for a white, salty substance known as “efflorescence”, which appears on foundational walls; this will tell you how high water has risen. If the basement flooring is swollen or removed from the subfloor, that is another indicator of water damages.
• Cracking can occur in the foundation and/or the floor, and it is often due to water damage. Look for cracks in window seals and door panes, as well.
• Odors are an indicator that there is an excess water problem. Oftentimes, it’s mold or mildew that causes those smells, which means you have water damage on your hands.
• Keep drainage areas well-maintained in expectation of summer storms; directing water away from your buildings will stop any problems before they even start!

Once you have found that you have water damage, it’s probably time to call a professional general contractor. These people are experienced and trained to repair and renovate spaces that have extensive damage from excess water due to leaky pipes, flooding, etc.

The SERVPRO team of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas is the team to call for cleanups after water damage or fire damage, whether small or large. We are also mold-remediation experts, too! You can reach us by phone at (912) 285-0724, or visit us on our website: SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas.

Free Movie at Phoenix Park

7/3/2018 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville, and Douglas, we think our clients and customers are amazing. More than just names on a list, you are part of the SERVPRO family!

To express our appreciation for all of you this summer, we are partnering with the Main Street of Waycross and Stacie Jones State Farm for the July Movie In The Park on July 13, which will feature that family of super-heroes we all know and love: THE INCREDIBLES! Bring your own amazing and incredible family on down to Phoenix Park to enjoy this fantastic, family-friendly, free showing in downtown Waycross.

Known to the world as the superheroes Mr. Incredible and Elastigirl, Bob Parr and his wife Helen were among the world’s greatest crime fighters, saving lives and fighting evil every day. The movie begins 15 years later when they have been forced to take on civilian identities and go to live in the suburbs, attempting to lead normal lives. They now have three children, Violet, Dash, and Jack-Jack. Bob is itching to get back into action, and he finally gets his chance when a mysterious message summons him to a remote island for a top secret assignment!

Bring chairs and blankets for your seating and be ready at dusk for the free showing to begin!

Here at SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas, we are very honored to serve the residents and business owners of our community here in Waycross. In addition to working to restore homes and business after water or fire damages, we are also dedicated to giving back to our community by being involved in events for families, such as the free Movie In The Park on July 13.

The team at SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas is experienced in cleanup projects for your home or business both large and small in the event of water or fire damage, and we are also mold remediation experts. Call us today at (912) 285-0724 for help with any of these issues. We’re glad to come to the rescue of the incredible families and businesses in our community!

Keeping Your Break Room Clean

5/29/2018 (Permalink)

Anyone who has worked on a team knows that it can be a challenge to keep the community break room clean. Everyone has very different ideas of what cleanliness entails, and this can create a lot of tension in the workplace and can even create problems with morale and relationships. These types of conflicts will adversely affect your business, and that’s not something anyone wants to see.

As the owner, either you or a designated representative can establish break room expectations. Here are some tips:

• Post a checklist or cleaning schedule on the break room wall in clear view of everyone who will be using it.
• Ask for volunteers who would like to oversee a particular area and schedule their duties on a rotating basis.
• Daily - clean food prep areas, sweep or vacuum flooring and trash removal, wipe down door knobs, wipe down chairs and tables.
• Weekly - clean microwave and other cooking appliances, front of refrigerator, glass, dishwasher, mop flooring, launder linens used during the week
• Weekly or bi-monthly - remove old food and containers from refrigerator, and make it clear that anything left behind will be discarded.
• Monthly - inspect the entire area for problems, such as food underneath or behind the stove, which will attract vermin. Check under the sink area for out-of-date cleaning products or leaks; left to itself, moisture can be conducive to mold growth.
• Allow the volunteers to leave work early on Fridays or come in late as a reward for their willingness to handle this part of the workplace.
• Install air fresheners or products that reduce odors.
• Ensure that cleaning supplies are readily available at all times and that sponges and/or cleaning rags are clean and fresh. If they are not, people will avoid using them.
• Make it clear that if cleanliness standards are not followed, use of the break room will be restricted or abolished.

Contact us here at SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas for all your large-scale cleaning projects. We are experts at cleanup after water and fire damage and are equipped to handle mold remediation. Our website is: SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas and our phone number is: (912) 285-0724.

Using a Dehumidifier to Keep Mold from Growing

5/22/2018 (Permalink)

There are many culprits that can cause or complicate allergies in a humid climate: mold, mildew, and seasonal allergy issues such as pollen, dust, etc. If you or someone you love suffers from allergies, using a dehumidifier in your home can make a big difference in their health and comfort.

Whether you live in a humid climate, or just in a living space that tends to be humid, such as an older home or apartment, you may be experiencing problems from mold and/or mildew or dust mites. Limited ventilation in places such as basement apartments, or small kitchens or bathrooms can cause moisture to build up, even in the driest of climates. It will only take 24-48 hours for a mold colony to begin growing once the airborne spores find an environment they like!

Dehumidifiers:

• Reduce humidity levels, making your home less inviting to allergens, particularly mold spores.
• Reduce the possibility that mold will develop on furniture, clothing, and other materials.
• Help to reduce the unpleasant odors that accompany mold and mildew.
• Allow you to breathe easier by reducing irritation to your skin and respiratory system.
• Reduce dust in the home, so you won’t be cleaning and dusting as much.
• Provides a less humid environment for your home and family, keeping electronics and tools free from rust and corrosion, and even prolonging the shelf life of breads and cereals!
• Help your clothing dry faster.
• Lower energy costs, helping your HVAC to run more efficiently. When air in the home is humid, the A/C must work doubly hard by cooling the air AND removing the moisture. Your unit will wear out sooner under that stress.
• Run quietly and efficiently in the background of daily life. You won’t even notice them.

The SERVPRO team of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas is always available to help with your clean up issues in your home or office. Fire damage, water damage, and mold prevention are just some of our areas of expertise. Call us at (912) 452 2498 or visit our website: SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas

Keeping Your Coastal Home Safe During Storm Season

5/15/2018 (Permalink)

Everyone sees storms differently here on the coast. Some people find them exciting, as long as they are safe and dry indoors, while others consider storms to be terrifying because of potential storm damage. Whether you bundle up and enjoy the sounds of stormy weather or you stand at the windows and watch for trouble, it’s important for you to know what to do to keep your home safe during storm season.

Here are some best practices to help:

• Have a storm safety kit. If you live an area where weather can become unpredictable and even violent, it’s going to be a smart idea to create a storm safety kit for yourself and your loved ones. This kit should provide you with all the supplies you may need to see you through the worst weather. It should be stored in a plastic box or tub with a sealed lid, and should include:
• Flashlights and extra batteries
• Blankets and bottles of water
• Battery-operated radio or means of communication
• Basic food supplies
• Basic first aid items
• Small fire extinguisher
• Watch the windows.  The weakest spot in your home is the window. Make sure your house has been equipped with suitable hurricane windows, and storm shutters are also extremely helpful as an additional layer of protection and security.
• Know the drill.  Make sure everyone knows what to do in case of a storm. Have a plan of action and discuss it with your family and loved ones. It’s vital to stay indoors, and if the weather gets extremely severe, you will want to retreat to the basement area or the most interior room of the house.
• Prepare your roof.  Another vulnerable point in your home is your roof. Use highly rated shingles that can withstand the harshest weather.
• Remember the garden.  When planting and choosing garden furniture, keep storm season in mind. Maintain your trees by removing branches that are not strong; these can become dangerous when torn off and thrown around by high winds. Get rid of rock and gravel landscaping, as a strong wind can send these materials flying. A little extra work now can save time and money later. Be safe!

Here at SERVPRO of Waycross, Douglas & Hinesville, we are always ready to help you stay safe. When bad weather or emergencies happen, we are equipped to assist with cleanup after fire or water damage, and mold remediation is one of our specialties.  Call us at (912) 452 2498 or visit our website: SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas

Checking Your Closet for Mold Growth

5/9/2018 (Permalink)

In the humid months of the year, mold can take hold in your closet without your knowledge. That kind of oversight can be expensive when it comes to clothing, shoes, and other personal belongings that might be affected. After all, it only takes 24-48 hours for mold to begin a rapid colonization if the conditions are right.

Here are some tips you can keep in mind to guard against mold:

• Deep cleaning.  This is probably the best and most effective way to guard against mold in your closet. Periodically, you will want to empty your closet and deep clean. It may not be necessary to remove those items that are hanging, but everything on the floor and along the walls including anything on shelving will need to come out. Sweep, vacuum, and mop, paying special attention to walls and corners. Use a disinfectant method such as baking soda and herbs to freshen the carpet, which also helps to prevent any mold spores from taking hold. Wipe down all shelving with a disinfectant liquid spray, and make sure they are completely dry before replacing your belongings.

• Use a dehumidifier.  Having a dehumidifier in your closet can be a big help when it gets muggy outside, and in.

• Don’t store items in cardboard. Storing items in cardboard is not the best idea. Once cardboard gets damp, it starts to decompose, and this is a great place for mold to begin a colony. It can also become a home for spiders, which is definitely something you don’t want!

• Use mold-resistant materials. When renovating or refreshing this area, use mold resistant materials such as drywall and paint, etc. These types of materials are readily available at any home improvement store.

Here at SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas, we are experienced in mold remediation, so call us at (912) 452 2498 if you develop a problem, or visit our website: SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas. We are also experts in cleanup after fire and water damage.

Tips for Spring Cleaning Your Waycross Home

3/13/2018 (Permalink)

We’ve been waiting for Spring here in Waycross! Everyone has had enough of cold, ice, and biting winds. And Spring here in the Waycross area is just so lovely; all the budding leaves and blooming flowers, and birds and animals coming out to feed and enjoy the warmth are wonderful to see.

Windows are thrown open again, and sunlight is welcomed back into our homes. And as we look around in the fresh light, we notice those areas of our homes that need special care….

Drapes and blinds will need to be dusted and checked for any repairs that might be needed. Running your heater all winter could have caused damage and soiling, deteriorating any fabrics. If there is a smoker in your home and they have been smoking indoors, there will be odor issues to be dealt with as well. If odors are particularly strong, dry cleaning your draperies can be helpful, or a call to the SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas team may be in order.

Most competent vacuum cleaners can handle rug and carpet cleaning, but after a long winter of feet and paws tracking in snow or mud, there can be quite a bit of soiled build-up. To preserve and extend the life of your carpet, we here at SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas recommend having a professional cleaning done once a year. We employ state-of-the-art equipment to help get your rug and carpeting looking like new!

Some preventive actions you can take year round are:

• Regular spot removal
• Regular vacuuming
• Moving furniture to change the traffic patterns in your home
• Using mats to limit tracked soil
• Using the brush on your vacuum to prevent matting

We are here at SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas are here to help you with all your cleaning needs. We are experienced in cleanup after fire damage and water damage as well, and you can always call us for any mold or mildew issues! Visit our website at SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas, or give us a call at (912) 307 3552!

Hello, Spring!

When to Replace Your Cleaning Supplies

3/6/2018 (Permalink)

We all use a wide variety of cleaning supplies every day, and they need to be replaced! Some types of supplies, such as sink and bath cleaning products, disappear quickly, while others, like oven cleaners and furniture oils, can last a relatively long time. Some cleaning solutions and products will show dates that they are “best used by”, but many do not. Developing a simple record keeping system for yourself, which notes when you purchased the item, can help you to decide when it might be time to buy new cleaning supplies. Replacing them in a timely manner will help to keep your home and/or business cleaner and smelling fresh!

The following products often don’t have a noted shelf life, and keeping these for too long can affect their efficiency:

• Sponges: This item is one of the most important supplies used in cleaning. They are employed for washing and scrubbing, both in kitchen and bath, as well as many other areas of the home or business. They are at the height of their efficiency until 15 to 20 days after purchase with regular daily use, and they should be replaced. After this time, they begin to deteriorate and fall apart. Keeping the sponge very clean can help it last longer; washing it with hot water and squeezing dry after use, and using anti-germ solutions can keep it contaminant free.
• Mops: These tools are extremely absorbent, and also need to be kept very clean between uses to prevent the growth of bacteria. Always allow it to dry completely before using again. Many mops have removable heads that can be machine-washed; this practice will help to prolong the life of the mop. Store your mop in a cool, dry space between uses.
• Dish Rags:  These are usually made of cotton, microfiber, or other cloths, and are used primarily for dishes. A best practice for this cleaning tool is to use it only for dishes and not for other areas of your home. Paper towels are a great aid in soaking up spills, etc. and not your dishrag! These can, of course, be machine washed, but if they get to the point where they smell even when clean, it’s time to replace!
• Dusters:  Clean your duster after every use and store in a dry area. When it begins to fall apart or deteriorate, it’s time to replace it.

When it comes to any type of solution, once the solution does not flow well from the container, or if it smells different than it did upon purchase, it is probably time to discard the item.

By keeping records of all these items, reminding you of their age, etc. will be a great help in keeping your cleaning supplies up to par!

The SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas is always here to help you with your large cleanups. We’re experts in cleaning up fire and water damage, and also in mold remediation. Visit us on our website: SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas or give us a call at: (912) 307 3552

Coming Up with a Family Emergency Plan

2/27/2018 (Permalink)

Coming Up with a Family Emergency Situation Plan

None of us like to think about emergencies that threaten our homes and loved ones. We’ve all seen pictures on the news and social media, and we know what it looks like. It’s terrifying and can leave us feeling helpless and paralyzed.

A good Family Emergency Plan can help everyone you care about feel a lot safer and in control, including yourself.

Assess the people who live with you. Do you have children or elderly people in your home? Do you have pets or livestock in your Waycross home? Make sure you think of these people and creatures when you are building your plan, as they are much more helpless than you and will need extra assistance.

Communication is of the utmost importance. Does every family member have access to a phone, both landline and cell phone? Make sure everyone understands how to use those phones, and that they have the access codes to unlock them should they need to use them in an emergency. Elderly people often don’t have the experience with more modern forms of communication; don’t assume that they know how a cell phone works or that they know how to text. Instead, go over the basics with them to ensure they will know what to do should the need arise. Everyone should know emergency numbers; memorizing “911” is something even the youngest person can do.

Be well informed; watch the news. You can get the news many different ways these days, so information about coming bad weather or wildfires, etc. should be readily available to everyone in the Waycross area. Make wise choices and think ahead. Don’t gamble with the weather; it’s much better to be safe than sorry. If emergency personnel come to your home or business and urge evacuation from the Georgia area, listen to them and follow their direction.

Make sure your family and loved ones are very clear in their understanding of your plan and that they understand that they need to follow that plan to the letter, so that everyone can be safe and covered during a water or fire emergency. Ensure that you talk to each person to see what they feel their capability level is. If they cannot move quickly on their own, assign someone to go to them immediately to assist them.

In case of a house-fire, have an escape route planned out, and if possible, more than one. Make sure windows are in working order and that each family member knows exactly what to do if there is a fire in the home. Teach everyone the fire safety rule “Stop, drop, and roll” - even the smallest children. You can make it into a game so that they memorize it and can use the process at a moment’s notice. Make a map of your home and memorize it so that you know exactly which window goes to which room, in case fire department personnel need to enter your home that way to conduct a rescue during the fire.

Research plans suggested by your local emergency crews such as fire and police, and use their suggestions and best practices to help your own family and loved ones be safe. It can be a matter of life and death.

Here at SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas, we know water damage, fire damage, mold remediation, and all of your emergency service needs! If your home or office has received water damage of any kind, or any other such emergency, you can reach us at  (912) 266-8609, or visit our website at http://www.SERVPROwaycrosshinesvilledouglas.com/

Keep Your Waycross Business Safe From Water Damage This Winter

2/23/2018 (Permalink)

We’ve all seen the news reports and social media posts showing water damage to homes and businesses after a flood or a heavy rain. Most of the time, disasters like that are unexpected, and if we aren’t prepared for what may happen during storm season, we can suffer more water damage than we need to.

The steady rains of winter, or the very occasional snow and ice can present a lot of problems. Take a good look around your home place of business; are you prepared for wet weather? Do exterior doors fit as tightly as they should, and are both doors and windows properly weather-stripped? The roof of your office or warehouse needs to be well-maintained, too, to protect your machinery, product, and furniture from water damage.

The parking lot or driveway of your home or business needs to have a well-planned drainage system so that clients, employees, and family members can get to and from their vehicles safely. If people have to wade in from their cars, floors will suffer, and a slip-and-fall accident due to wet floors can be a disaster. Inspect the parking lots of your business regularly for potholes, especially after a storm. The last thing you need is a bill for damages to a vehicle due to deep potholes. If you know you’ll see a lot of run-off from the parking area, consider sand-bagging those areas that will be affected. Low-lying buildings next to a parking lot full of water can end up flooding, and you will want to plan ahead to prevent that from happening.

Rain gutters and spouts need to be checked on a regular basis, too. If your rain gutters become clogged with debris such as dead leaves or small branches, they aren’t going to be able to drain away rain water. As water backs up, it can leak back into the walls of your building, sometimes without you knowing it, and you can find yourself with water damage, and even mold.

Power lines and telephone poles near to your place of business can be an issue when storm season comes Contact your utilities companies and have them come take a look prior to wet weather to make sure you, your business, and your employees will be safe. Be aware of the condition of any large trees on your property. If the grounds of your place of business become saturated, a tree with an unstable root base can fall and create problems for you, your employees, and your customers.

The team here at SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas is standing ready to help in any way we can! We have the expertise to handle water and fire damage, and specialize in mold remediation. If you have sustained water damage to your property, give us a call today at (912) 266-8609, or visit  on our website:SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas

Preventing Mold in Your Waycross Motel or Hotel

2/13/2018 (Permalink)

Mold is unsightly and unhealthy, and can cost you business. Take steps today to mold-proof your motel or hotel business so your Waycross guests can rest easy.

IDENTIFY PROBLEM AREAS

Do an audit of your business premises; where are the problem areas? Are the windows in some rooms frequently damp? Are there any persistent leaks in ceilings or hallways? Preventing mold from growing and spreading can be as simple as ripping up carpet or using mold-resistant cleaning and renovation products, or just cleaning out rain gutters.

KEEP THINGS DRY

Mold will not grow without moisture, so take care of wet areas immediately; water damage often leads to mold growth. Seepage after heavy rainfalls or melting snow and ice, or even carpet spills or minor flooding due to broken pipes, etc. need to be fully dried within 24 to 48 hours. Make sure any bedding and furniture that may have been affected are either completely dried or removed from the area.

VENTILATION

Make sure all staff is educated as to good practices in the prevention of mold. All areas need to be properly ventilated at all times, from the kitchen to the on-site laundry, if you have one. Housekeeping staff need to keep a lookout for leaking AC units in guest areas, and all staff should know what to look for in break areas, bathrooms, and other areas where they work daily. In overall damp weather, dehumidifiers might be appropriate to use, especially in more humid regions.

KEEP A WEATHER EYE OUT

Regular inspection of exterior doors, windows, and roofing can expose any leaks or improper fits right away. Even the smallest leaks can, over time, cause a mold issue that can be difficult to eradicate.

GREEN STUFF

Do you use live plants in your decorating scheme? They are beautiful and useful, too; they help to purify the air of indoor spaces, which is always helpful. They can also accumulate mold on their leaves and in their pots. Make sure that part of their care involves checking for mold. Natural food stores carry products that can be added to water for your plants to keep excess moisture down, while being safe for the environment.

RESISTING MOLD

When it comes time to repair or renovate, keep in mind that there are many mold-resistant products on the market today, such as drywall or Sheetrock. Many paints now include mold-inhibitors, which are a great asset in the battle. Some cleaning products can be a benefit, as well.

Whatever your region’s climate, either the warm, wet South or the hot, dry Southwest, and everything in-between, make sure you know how mold starts and spreads. Knowledge is power, even in the battle against mold!

Here at SERVPRO of Waycross/ Hinesville & Douglas, we are experts when it comes to water damage, fire damage, mold remediation, and all of your emergency service needs! If your business has received water damage of any kind, or any other such emergency, you can reach us at  (912) 266-8609, or visit our website at http://www.SERVPROwaycrosshinesvilledouglas.com/

Puppy Love Donation Drive

2/6/2018 (Permalink)

PUPPY LOVE DONATION DRIVE

Valentine’s Day. We all know it’s almost upon us because everywhere we go, we see red hearts and boxes of chocolates, teddy bears and sweetly worded greeting cards that express our love to our family, friends, and loved ones.

But did you know that a green box is also a symbol to look for this Valentine’s Day? That’s right; these green boxes are designated drop off sites for the Puppy Love Donation Drive that SERVPRO of Waycross/Hinesville & Douglas is sponsoring, along with many other local offices and businesses. The proceeds from donations are going to go to area animal shelters and humane societies to help them in their fight to save animals from homelessness, cruelty and starvation.

Here are the Puppy Love donation drop off sites:

Waycross Drop off locations:

1. Woodard Pools - 611 Memorial Drive, Waycross, GA
2. Southside Christian School - 3439 Knight Avenue, Waycross, GA
3. Country Financial Chris Jenkins - 2450 Memorial Drive, Waycross, GA
4. Tuscan Sky Salon - 2540 Memorial Dr, Waycross, GA

Douglas Drop Off Locations

1. Earl Mayo Country Financial - 1010 Madison Ave N, Douglas, GA
2. Meeks Insurance Agency - 800 Madison Ave N, Douglas, GA
3. Tanner Insurance Agency - 319 S Madison Ave, Douglas, GA

Hinesville Drop Off Locations

1. Dennis Waters Rental Properties - 565 Dunlevie Rd, Allenhurst, GA
2. Allstate Insurance Agent: Andy Bennett - 820 W Oglethorpe Hwy, Hinesville, GA

We are all concerned with pets who are badly treated and/or abandoned, and now there’s a way to make a  real difference in the life of a helpless animal and show some love to the organizations in our area that are dedicated to caring for them.

SERVPRO of Waycross/ Hinesville, & Douglass will also be sharing event photos at various area participants, so make sure you look for the green boxes in your area and donate! You might become a Waycross area celebrity!

The team at SERVPRO of Waycross/ Hinesville & Douglas is happy to be a part of the Waycross community and surrounding areas, and to be able to help residents in times of crisis. We handle fire and water damage, and are experts in mold remediation. Visit us on their website: SERVPRO of Waycross/ Hinesville, & Douglas, or give us a call at (912) 266 8375.

Happy Valentine’s Day!!

How to Keep Your Waycross Home Pest Free

1/30/2018 (Permalink)

We’ve found that keeping your home pest free is much easier than getting rid of them after they’ve moved in. Our approach to this is two-pronged. First, prevent them from entering your home, and second, use these cleaning tips to take away all their reasons for thinking it might be a good place to live.

Prevent Their Entry

Pests can enter your home through the smallest cracks, so the efforts you make to seal up the cracks in your home’s exterior will keep some of them out. Look for gaps around the pipes that enter your home and seal with expanding foam. Holes in window and door screens let insects in and you can repair or replace the screens.

Apply weatherstripping around door frames, and if there’s a visible gap between the base of the door and the floor, install a door sweep to keep them from crawling inside. Caulk around the window frames to prevent flying or crawling insects from gaining entry.

Eliminate Their Interest

Bugs won’t be as interested in your home if they can’t smell or otherwise sense food and water inside it. Even if you vacuum and sweep routinely, food has a way of accumulating under the appliances, in the carpet and between the furniture cushions. When we at SERVPRO of Waycross / Hinesville / Douglas provide cleaning services, we pay attention to the hidden places where crumbs often scatter.

Additionally, these cleaning tips can help you keep the bugs outside:

• Use a kitchen garbage can with a tight-fitting lid.

• Keep boxed or bagged food like cereal, flour, sugar, chips, crackers, or cookies in tightly covered tins and plastic or glass containers. You can also keep flour and sugar in the refrigerator.

• Rinse the dishes before loading the dishwasher and use the garbage disposal every day.

• Put your pets on a feeding schedule and remove and rinse their food dishes.

• Keep the drawers closed to prevent food crumbs from dropping inside.

• Move the appliances periodically to vacuum and scrub beneath them.

• Snacking and binging go together, and when you indulge, make sure everyone uses a plate and napkin to prevent food from spilling into the carpet or furniture.

4 Quick Tips for Cleaning Your Desk

1/23/2018 (Permalink)

It’s a funny thing about desks. They have a way of accumulating piles of papers and random office supplies, as well as stacks of books on their own. The fact is that keeping a desk clean, polished, odor-free and clutter-free does take some doing, but it isn’t impossible. A clean and clear desk can make you much more productive and much more able to think.

Here are a few tips to help keep your desk clean, neat and organized.

1. Make a Commitment to Cleaning.

Offices tend to run on regular appointments, so why not make a special appointment for cleaning your desk? Schedule a special clean up time for your desk three times a week and watch how clean and organized it gets.

2. Don’t Eat at Your Desk.

Eating at your desk takes away from the enjoyment of a lunch, and it also can add to the odor and mess of your work-space. Keep meals separate and leave the office to eat, for the good of your social life and the cleanliness of your desk.

3. Use a Professional Cleaning Service.

Once in awhile, it pays to call in a professional service to clean your desk, and take on odor removal in your work area. SERVPRO of Waycross / Hinesville / Douglas is a great resource for major office cleaning jobs and for odor removal in your workspace. Do yourself a favor and call in a pro before your messy office gets completely out of control.

4. Get an Inbox.

Even with all the email use happening today, the fact is we still have a lot of paper to deal with. Get a good old fashioned paper tray for your desk, and have that be the space for your incoming papers. You’ll immediately see a reduction of clutter by making this change.

Having a clean desk to work on will help you have a clear head for work. So, make a point of keeping your desk clean, and call in the professionals at SERVPRO of Waycross / Hinesville / Douglas to get your desk clean, fresh and extra sparkling.

4 Tips to Deodorize Your Car

1/16/2018 (Permalink)

If it’s been a long time since your car has received a good cleaning, then it might be long overdue. We’re on the go and often find ourselves with no time to think about maintaining our vehicle. Our cars take a heavy hit when it comes to collecting our garbage, receiving stains from food packages, and more. What’s worse is that the odor removal process can be even more difficult if not taken care of in the first place. Fortunately, we here at SERVPRO of Waycross / Hinesville / Douglas have some cleaning tips for you that will help keep your car looking fresh and odor free!

Taking out the Trash

Before cleaning anything in your vehicle, the first step you should do is to remove all the trash that has been collecting over time. Whether it’s candy wrappers, fast food bags, Coke cans or more, get a trash bag and discard everything that doesn’t belong in the car. This will help with the next couple of steps, especially since there won’t be any debris in the way.

Vacuuming

Once all the nasty items have been discarded from the vehicle, the next step is to vacuum all the nooks and crannies of the vehicle. Make sure that you get every space between the seats as well as under the seats. Removing crumbs from your vehicle will not only make it look cleaner, but it will also deter any insects who might be looking for an easy snack to pick up.

Deep Scrubbing

Now we can get to the meat of the job! If you want to help with the deodorization process, you’re going to have to deep clean all the seats. Find yourself a reliable cleaning solution from your local store and scrub the fabric to help with odor removal. The deodorization process will help keep your car smelling better and remove unwanted smells that have built up over time.

Air Fresheners and Vent Clips

Now that the vehicle has been cleaned, we can begin the upkeep of the car by installing vent clips and air fresheners into the vehicle. These will help keep your vehicle smelling fresh, and comes in various smells! While this option is not a direct solution to a bad smelling vehicle, it helps ease any lingering smells that may exist post cleaning.

Cleaning Your Home After Having Prolonged Guests

1/10/2018 (Permalink)

Is your Waycross house a mess after family visits?

The joyful celebrations of the holidays are here, but soon the long march back to the day-to-day living will begin. There’s no question the holidays are a time of much-needed love and light, yet with it comes a few issues that can make the season a bit wearing.

The holiday issues we’re talking about come down to a short list. First is greeting cards. Do we have to keep sending out greeting cards these days or is it okay to send out a mass “Season’s Greetings” email and figure the job is done? Or is that tacky?

And while we’re on it, is it tacky to pass on Aunt Bertha’s fruitcake, when all you’re trying to do is avoid extra calories (and perhaps food poisoning)? Okay, and last on the list are those extended visits from friends and relatives we love but don’t want to have to live with.

The House Guest Cleanup Conundrum

Having house guests can be a lot of fun, especially if they don’t stay very long. Being a host involves numerous responsibilities, however, including cooking, cleaning, tidying up, and did we mention cleaning?

The aftermath of a long visit can mean your home is in need of some serious cleanup, given with plenty of TLC. Carpets may need a major cleanup after an extended visit, and the stove may need a total overhaul. What about the bathroom? The tile and grout in the bathroom may need a major cleaning before, and yes, after the guests leave, so you’ve got a big job on your hands.

If your guests brought their pets along (it happens) there may be pet stains on the carpet or on the tile to deal with too. The good news for those of you who have extra guests this holiday season is that SERVPRO of Waycross / Hinesville / Douglas is ready to take on the task of getting your house back in shape pronto, as soon as you are ready to get your home back in order.

The dedicated SERVPRO staff is made up of highly trained technicians who are ready to clean your ceilings, floors, walls, carpets, upholstery, tile, and much more.

So, don’t sweat the cleaning necessary after playing host for a busy holiday season. Greet it with a big smile, knowing you’ve got the support of SERVPRO to get you through it.

New Years Cleaning Resolutions

1/10/2018 (Permalink)

Make cleaning your resolution for 2018 Waycross!

You have set your jaw and made New Year’s resolutions before only to cower in defeat halfway through the year. Why not make this upcoming year one in which you do everything you set your mind to do, which includes giving your home a thorough cleaning? SERVPRO of Waycross / Hinesville / Douglas is your number one choice for all cleaning needs.

We provide carpet and upholstery cleaning

No matter how many times you tell guests to take off their shoes before entering your home, there is always at least one person who fails to do so during the holidays. Beyond the rebel during the family gathering is the everyday dirt that comes with residing in close quarters. Your carpet needs to be thoroughly cleaned at least once per year.

Upholstery is another area in the general living space that becomes dirty rather quickly. What better New Year’s resolution to fulfill than to give yourself the peace of mind in knowing that your family will not be exposed to dust mites every time they sit down to watch television?

Odor removal is available

Pick up the phone and solicit our services when you have cleaned all that you know how and yet the odor remains. We have the expertise needed to deodorize your home efficiently. You do not want to enter the new year with the same smells that hindered productivity these past twelve months. Let us improve your attitude by removing the odors that bring down the atmosphere of your home.

We provide air duct services

Heating during winter months is essential. Your home’s central air and heating system cannot work efficiently without proper maintenance. Our air duct services can clean one of the most intricate parts of your system so that it provides heat during winter and air in summer. Air duct service also provides better air quality, which may reduce the probability of illness during the year.

New year, new you

You can make this year different by starting off on a clean foot. Call SERVPRO of Waycross / Hinesville / Douglas today to set up an appointment for a thorough cleaning of your home.

Retiring of Fred the Ford

12/22/2017 (Permalink)

The passing of the keys for our beloved Fred the Ford

Retiring of Fred the Ford

Fred the Ford Van has served our company for countless hours, days, weeks, and years. But the truth of the matter was that Fred the Ford has not been receiving the love he deserved after the purchase of a newer SERVPRO van. Here Fred sat just dreaming of the day he would have a purpose again -- and then it hit SERVPRO of Waycross; Fred could serve as an asset to a family. We contacted Wayne County Protective Services, also known as Fair Haven, and they said that Fred the Ford would serve as a blessing to the ministry. With a little TLC, Fred the Ford is now serving Fair Haven as a new addition to there fleet of vehicles to transport women to jobs and children to their doctor’s appointments. Fred the Ford has a purpose again, and we couldn’t be happier for him.

What is Fair Haven?

The mission of Wayne County Protective Services is to provide a quality 24-hour emergency shelter with comprehensive services to victims of domestic violence and their children as well as educating the community of the effects to end the cycle of abuse. Reducing the level of domestic violence will further by access to preventive education, awareness events, and public speaking to schools, civic groups, and partner agencies to foster communities towards the issues of domestic violence with knowledge, courage, and compassion. WCPA reduces the impact of domestic violence by promoting the rights of victimized women and their children.

Surge Protector Safety Over the Holidays

12/11/2017 (Permalink)

Make sure you are careful with your surge protectors this winter!

According to the U.S. Fire Administration, there are about 250 fatalities every year during the holiday season that are attributed to electrical fires and hazards associated with Christmas trees and holiday lighting. What a tragic statistic! We don't want you or the ones you love to experience anything like that this holiday season, so please make sure you have surge protectors in your home and keep the following in mind to protect your family and property.

What Causes Electrical Surges?

Electrical surges occur more frequently than many people realize, but they are not always massive. Large surges can occur when lightning strikes or when electrical devices with powerful motors are suddenly turned on. They can also occur after a power outage when electricity is suddenly restored throughout your house.

These surges can cause fires, melt plastic, fuse metal and completely destroy delicate electrical equipment like computers, smartphones, and tablets. Small surges also take place when circuits are modestly overloaded with several electrical devices running simultaneously, as is often the case during the holidays when holiday lights are on and visitors are all charging their devices.

Purpose of a Surge Protector

Electricity can be a blessing and a curse for every homeowner. That amazing power that enables all your lights, appliances, and electronics to come to life can be unpredictable and dangerous when an electrical surge occurs.

Surge protectors are designed to detect surges in electricity and cut off the electrical current to prevent damage to your electrical devices such as televisions, computers, and kitchen appliances. Failure to have these safety devices installed can lead to burnt out electrical equipment and even fire damage. Don't take the risk – use surge protectors throughout your home.

Difference Between Surge Protectors and Power Strips

Many homeowners believe that they already have surge protectors in place and that their electronics and holiday lights are all safe and well. But that is often not the case. What many people have in their homes are power strips but not surge protectors. A power strip acts to increase the number of devices that can be powered by a single electrical wall outlet, but they cannot shut off the power flow when an electrical surge flares up.

Some power strips have surge protectors built into them, but many simply have an on/off switch but offer no real protection. To prevent fire damage and ensure your family's safety this holiday season, make sure that you have actual surge protectors installed and not just your basic power strips.

If your home has suffered fire damage and you are in need of professional cleaning services, please don't hesitate to contact SERVPRO of Waycross / Hinesville / Douglas. Our friendly and experienced professionals are happy to answer your questions and help with all your cleaning needs.

Energy-Saving Tips for the Winter Chill

11/29/2017 (Permalink)

Keep your bills down this winter with these energy saving tips!

The winter's chill is approaching fast, so now is the time to take precautions and lower electricity bills by creating an energy-efficient atmosphere. By making simple changes to everyday habits, your home will be toasty while frosty air remains outdoors.

• Ensure the thermostat, HVAC, fireplaces, and heaters are working properly. Clean or replace air filters, remove dust and dirt from the unit, get fresh wood and coal for the fireplace, and/or ensure buttons/switches are functioning. Repair broken parts or replace non-functioning heating systems. Follow manufacturer's instructions for proper use. Continue to clean/replace air filters monthly. For heaters and HVAC's, let it run before the first official use to remove carbon monoxide odors.

• Set the thermostat and heater at one temperature all season. A good temperature is 70 degrees. Alternatively, invest in a programmable unit.

• Insulate the home with weather stripping, plastic sheeting, and caulk. Wrap this around all entry doors, screen doors, and windows in the home and garage. Insulate the attic, basements, and crawl spaces too. This prevents air leaks from seeping in and keeping the home drafty and cold, even when heaters, fireplaces, thermostats, and HVAC are firing at maximum speed.

• Let the sunshine in on sunny days, particularly around the afternoon. The heat will warm the house to reduce dependence on heating items. Close the curtains after the sun goes down, however. An open window after sunset invites unwanted cold air in the home.

• During nightfall, reduce heater, fireplace, HVAC, and thermostat dependence and rely on comforters, sheets, blankets, and pajamas to warm you up. Turn off fireplaces, heaters, and HVAC's in unused rooms. Close the fireplace damper to conserve energy.

• Ceiling fans are a great way to stop heat from rising. Simply set the ceiling fan to turn clockwise on low speed. The warm air will circulate the rising heat down to the floor to reduce dependence on heating products. Continued use of ceiling fans means heat will travel to other occupied areas of the home.

A toasty home in the wintertime sounds wonderful. Turn this dream into reality through proactive measures like the information above. Let SERVPRO of Waycross / Hinesville / Douglas assist in proactive measures to avoid safety hazards this winter.

Indoor Plant Care and Odor Remedies

11/15/2017 (Permalink)

Create an urban oasis in your home!

When it comes to decorating the interior of your home, indoor plants are a fantastic way to liven up your living room. They can oftentimes bring a constant sweet smell to your household and create a relaxing aesthetic to the room. However, like any other home maintenance item, indoor plants require maintenance too. Oftentimes, odor removal becomes a major focus on indoor plants and can cause a stink if not taken care of. Fortunately, SERVPRO of Waycross / Hinesville / Douglas has a solution for you that will help keep your plant healthy and odor free in your household.

Indoor Plant Care

Indoor plants require sunlight to be healthy. One of the best things a homeowner can do for their indoor plant is to place it near a window for some direct sunlight. This will keep the plant healthy and vibrant in your room. Another important thing to remember is to not over water your indoor plants. Too much water can cause plant death, so be careful! Be sure not to spill coffee or tea into or around your plant’s base. The sugar can cause flies to attract, and this can be even more detrimental to your room.

Plant Odor Removal

Unfortunately, the odor can occur when the plant is not maintained properly. To ensure that your plant is odor free, here are some tips that can help.

• Always make sure that the indoor plant is the cause of the smell. It’s not good to jump to conclusions, especially if it’s not causing too much of an issue. Smell the base of the plant first to determine.

• As mentioned before, over-watering your plant can cause some issues for your plant. Not only can it kill the plant, but it can also sit at the bottom of the base and create a nasty smell.

• Check to see if there are any dead leaves or petals. They too can cause unpleasant smells if left unattended.

• Finally, make sure that you regularly replace the soil. Fungus and algae can build up over time and cause bad odor.

The benefits of having an indoor plant are many. Not only does it help with stress, but it also livens up your living room and creates a welcoming aesthetic. Make sure you to use these tips to help ensure your indoor plant is taken care of and odor free!

When Do You Clean Your Carpet?

10/31/2017 (Permalink)

There are many factors involved in when you should clean a carpet!

Are you planning to clean your carpet anytime soon? For your house to look great, it must be fresh from the seats to the carpet. But many people have difficulties in determining when to clean their house carpets. The carpets, of course, need cleaning when they are dirty. Yet cleaning every day may not be enough to keep your carpet beautiful. Autumn can be a great time to clean your carpet professionally for a few reasons. When you are ready to clean your carpet, seek service from a credible company. SERVPRO of Waycross / Hinesville / Douglas has many years of experience in commercial restoration, recovery and cleaning services and our expert technicians are always ready to serve.

Reasons for cleaning your carpet during the autumn season

It's logical that you have to have a proper carpet cleaning once it gets dirty. However, you should conduct a professional cleaning at least once in a year to keep your carpet in good condition. Below are reasons to clean your carpet during the autumn;

During winter and fall families are home for the holidays. Families usually get together during winter and fall seasons. This could make it difficult for you to schedule a carpet cleaning with heavier foot traffic. When family members are at home, it means there will be more shoes and feet in the house. This will make the carpet dirty. To be on safe side clean your carpet before or after this season.

During the autumn season, some people are away from home with children at school. In this scenario, you have ample time to schedule a carpet cleaning. When you clean your carpet, why not go for a whole house restoration and recovery after the dirty seasons!

If you run a business, you may experience a downtime in sales and foot traffic before the holiday rush. If you work in retail, the opposite is probably true. if your office goes on holiday break, why not schedule carpet cleaning when everyone is away from their desks?

No matter your schedule, SERVPRO of Waycross/Hinesville/Douglas is available for carpet services. Get in contact with us today if you need a refresh!

What Can SERVPRO Do For You, Waycross?

10/16/2017 (Permalink)

We love helping our neighbors in the community

As home or business owners, we never know when catastrophe can strike. Defective wiring could ignite a fire, an old tree could fall on your roof, or your house could be on the path of a powerful storm such as Hurricane Maria. The cleanup and recovery process after a disaster can be daunting. With SERVPRO of Waycross / Hinesville / Douglas, you can rest easy knowing professionals are on the job.

We are a reputable and trusted leader in the restoration industry. We love providing residential and commercial recovery and cleaning services to our neighbors. If you are dealing with water damage, fire damage, storm damage, or mold - call us!

What sets SERVPRO of Waycross / Hinesville / Douglas apart from the rest? Well, there are various aspects that put us on the competitive edge. Being a locally-owned and operated company means that we respond to any size disaster faster. We also provide  24-hour emergency service, meaning that we are always there whenever our customers need us.

Our ability to provide a wide variety of restoration and recovery services is something that we pride ourselves in. This helps us provide viable solutions to all our customers, including homeowners, business owners, construction workers, building managers and those in need of help with disaster cleanup. There’s no task too small or too big for us to handle.

How are we able to help so many in our community? Advanced restoration and cleaning equipment, and the availability of a highly trained workforce! SERVPRO of Waycross / Hinesville / Douglas makes use of state-of-the-art equipment to ensure that tasks are completed quickly and effectively.

Our technicians will make sure that your water damaged, fire-damaged or mold-infested property is restored. In addition to that, they are trustworthy, dutiful, and they adhere to all industry standards.

At SERVPRO of Waycross / Hinesville / Douglas, it’s always a great honor and privilege to serve our local communities, from Jesup and Blackshear to Baxley and Walthoursville, from Ludowici to Patterson, and all the way to Midway. As a proud member of the Waycross, GA community, we strive to make our community the very best it can be.

Say Goodbye to Stubborn Office Odors

10/12/2017 (Permalink)

Deodorization services can rid your office of awful odors!

Unpleasant smells in workplace environments are distracting and unpleasant. They can, also, lead to all types of negative consequences. Stubborn odors can reduce productivity, and they can make employees feel unwell. Bad smells can contribute to headaches that aren't conducive to workplace success. The occasional stinky lunch may not affect everyone for more than a few hours, but real odors can signal a problem. If you have any concerns that involve unpleasant odors in your workplace, you don't have to sit back and feel helpless anymore. Our SERVPRO team has significant experience with the odor removal process. Our technicians understand and make use of all the most effective deodorization techniques.

Why Professional Deodorization Service Is Smart

So many things can contribute to awful office smells. Lack of ventilation can be a culprit. The combination of coworkers' meals can be responsible. It can be tough to do away with stubborn smells without a professional cleaning. Recruiting the assistance of seasoned technicians can save you time. Our team members have a strong understanding of the odor elimination process. We eliminate odors of all types skillfully and meticulously. If you have lasting food odors hanging out in your office, we can make them a thing of the past for you. If you have unwelcome renovation work odors in your office, we can make them ancient history, too. We can tackle musty odors from water damage or mold infestations as well.

Your employees will enjoy the lack of odors around the office and your customers will too. A smelly business will turn away business almost as fast as poor customer service. Don't let the community associate your business with poor odors or customer service!

Reach Out to SERVPRO of Waycross / Hinesville / Douglas Today

SERVPRO of Waycross / Hinesville / Douglas is a reputable local company that specializes in commercial cleaning services. We can handle odor issues and eliminate them. If you want your office environment to feel refreshing and clean again, you can turn to our team members. They're equipped with all the highest quality deodorization tools and products on the market. They know how to use all these fine tools and products like the experts they are, too. Call our company as soon as possible for additional details about our five-star work and make an appointment. We understand the odor elimination process here.

Is Your HVAC Unit Ready for Autumn?

9/19/2017 (Permalink)

Having your air ducts cleaned by a professional can help prepare your HVAC system for cooler weather.

The autumn months are just ahead. Your HVAC system has been working hard all summer. Is it ready for the cooler months ahead? Here are five things you need to do to get your HVAC system ready for autumn.

Change your air filters. Your HVAC system needs a clean flow of air to run efficiently. When your air filters are clogged, that air is not flowing freely and your energy costs are going up. Plus, it puts more wear and tear on the system, driving up repair costs and shortening its life. Once a month, change your air filters to prevent problems.

Clean the outside unit. You should remove any dust and debris from the unit. The accumulation can decrease the efficiency of the unit. Remove twigs, branches and leaves from inside and around the unit. A quick hose down will remove any pollen or dust. It is also a good time to inspect the unit for any damage. This is something you need to do in the spring also to keep the system running year round.

Get your heating and cooling system checked. At least once a year, you should have your heating and cooling system checked by a professional. Routine maintenance will keep the system running smoothly. While doing the maintenance, the technician may also find minor issues that are easily fixed. Catching small problems early will prevent them from becoming major later on. And that can end up costing you a lot more.

Clean your air ducts. The inside of your home's air ducts is likely coated with pollen, dust, dirt, debris and odors. To keep your home's air clean this winter, get a professional to come out and do an air duct cleaning. It is not something you need to do every year, but definitely something to do every couple of years.

Program your thermostat. Autumn can bring some wild weather patterns, with some days hot and some days cool. Make adjustments to your thermostat's programming to handle these fluctuations. If you don't already have a programmable thermostat, getting one this fall is a great idea. It will save you money while keeping your home more comfortable.

Taking a few minutes to get your HVAC ready for autumn will give you the warmth you need as the cool winter winds set in. For help with air duct cleaning, call on the professionals here at SERVPRO of Waycross / Hinesville / Douglas.

Emergency Preparedness Month

9/16/2017 (Permalink)

Is your family prepared?

Being prepared for an emergency can save your life and the lives of those you love. To encourage people to be ready for a disaster, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) sponsors Emergency Preparedness Month every September. This year's theme is "Disasters Don't Plan Ahead. You Can."

Why September?

FEMA selected September because it corresponds to the 9/11 attacks and it sits in the middle of the Atlantic hurricane season. The ultimate goal of Emergency Preparedness Month is to increase the number of individuals, families, and communities who actively prepare to handle disasters at home, at work, in school and in places of worship.

As demonstrated by history and present news, disasters can be man-made and natural. The fortunate thing is preparation for both is the same. It starts with getting a plan together, then gathering supplies, and finally practicing what happens if a disaster occurs.

Getting a Plan Together

Preparation begins with a plan. How will you and your family survive if a disaster occurs? Your plan needs to outline what you would do in different scenarios: fire, flood, gas leak, terrorist attack, etc. You also need to make a list of what items you would need to survive for a few days like food, water, medical supplies, pet supplies, etc.

Other things to consider would be:

How would you communicate with each other if you were separated?

Where would you meet?

Who would help disabled family members?

Gathering Supplies and Getting Prepared

Once you have a plan in place, the next step is gathering supplies. Every family should have enough supplies to get through at least 3 days. That includes food, water, pet supplies, and medicine. The food should require minimal preparation and be easy to eat.

Keep some cash available for emergencies. ATMs and credit card machines may be down due to the disaster.

Gather and store items for easy access during a disaster. These items can include personal, household and medical information.

Practicing

This is a step often overlooked but critical. Your family should practice what would happen if a disaster occurs.  What would you do if the house is on fire? Where will you meet if you cannot get into the neighborhood after school or work? How should you pack the car if you need to evacuate?

Preparation makes all the difference in responding to a disaster. Make sure you put the phone number of SERVPRO of Waycross / Hinesville / Douglas on your list of emergency contacts. We can help restore your home after a fire, flood, or other damage.

Bonfire Safety Tips

9/16/2017 (Permalink)

Bonfires are great, but stay safe!

Thinking of summer might have you reminiscing about swimming pools, barbecues, and bonfires when the sun sets with family. Bonfires are great for storytelling and relaxing with friends and family, but there are safety precautions to take when having a bonfire to keep everyone safe. Without proper fire safety precautions, accidents can happen and cause your fun evening to turn into a disaster.

Location

The place where you start the fire is crucial. Ensure that you’re at least 25 feet away from buildings, structures or other burnable items. Safety begins with fire prevention. Light the bonfire in a clear, contained area without hanging trees or branches. Cut them down if they’re present to eliminate the risk of them catching fire and turning a small campfire into a devastation.

Monitoring

Never leave a bonfire unmonitored, even for a few minutes. It only takes a couple minutes for a fire to get out of control to the point where you need to call for help. Always have someone watching it until it has gone out completely. Avoid starting a fire if conditions are dry or if it’s excessively windy. Stay at a safe distance away from the flames.

Burnable Items

Only burn dry wood intended for burning. Don’t put plastic, garbage or flammable things such as gasoline on the fire. The fumes aren’t safe to breathe in and can present a larger risk if something, such as an aerosol can, explodes with people in close proximity. If you do need assistance to get the flame going, you can use charcoal or lighter fluid, but keep it away from the fire after it gets going to prevent the container from igniting.

Extinguishing

Always put the fire out at the end of the night. Don’t leave it, even if it’s small and appears that it is going to go out on its own. Pour water, sand or dirt directly on the fire to put it out. Use a metal shovel to turn the coals and add more water if necessary. Don’t leave the bonfire until the pit stops smoking completely.

Bonfires are fun to have and allow individuals to interact and relax but need to be carefully monitored. Practice proper fire safety measures to ensure everyone has fun without commotion, but if the need arises, seek the professional restoration services offered by us at SERVPRO of Waycross / Hinesville / Douglas.

March is National American Red Cross Month

3/15/2016 (Permalink)

March is National American Red Cross Month. SoB &SoW are pleased to sponsor the 2nd Annual Youth Heroes Breakfast On Friday March 25th 2016 at the Golden isles Career Academy in Brunswick. 15 local kids, middle school through high school, have been nominated for this prestigious award, recognizing their volunteer work in our community. In addition Coach Rocky Hidalgo, from Glynn Academy, will be recognized as the Outstanding Adult Mentor for 2016. We would like to congratulate all the recipients and their families on their achievements. 

Prevent Window Frost

2/9/2016 (Permalink)

Prevent Window Frost