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Fire & Water - Cleanup & Restoration

Archived Blog Posts

Preparing Your Business for the Weather Ahead

9/29/2023 (Permalink)

Summer is over, Fall is here, and Winter is right around the corner! While not every storm will cripple a business, it is still necessary to be prepared. Along with frigid temperatures and snow, winter can create problems with plumbing and operations. Therefore, it is essential to make a plan for the worst-case scenario.

  1. Prepare Your Building-Make sure you check your plumbing and electricity regularly, but even more so when a winter storm is heading your way. Outside plumbing should be shut off and cleared to prevent freezing and possible burst pipes. Additionally, it may be a good idea to secure a generator if your business does not already have one. If your company does have a generator, it is a good investment to have it serviced before the winter weather sets in.
  2. Plan for Ice and Snow-Any winter storm is going to bring issues of snow and ice. Being prepared for this situation means having a plow service on contract and ensuring that all walkways and driveways are cleared and salted. It is vital to do everything in your power to ensure that customers do not get hurt on the way into your business.
  3. Focus on Inventory-Also, as storms have the potential to cause significant business interruption as well as property damage, it is vital to take an accurate inventory of all your assets. This inventory will be used for insurance claims if property damage results in an inventory loss. You should move stock to a secure and climate-controlled area, photographing and documenting everything. This will help streamline the process if a claim is made.
  4. Make a List of Contacts-While taking inventory is necessary, it is also crucial to make a list of emergency contacts. This list should include all personnel who are essential to your operations. Additionally, you should include a disaster restoration specialists in the Omaha area in case of an emergency.

    Winter storm season can produce significant threats to business operations. Massive snowfalls and ice storms can wreak havoc on you Omaha business, so it is essential to have a plan. 

Call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest today at (402)408-0134 and schedule one of our marketers to come to your business to help you with an Emergency Readiness Plan at no cost to you!

National Readiness Month

9/29/2023 (Permalink)

Did you know September is National Readiness Month? Disasters can strike businesses big or small. Disasters can devastate a community in just a matter of moments.

Disasters caused by wind, fire, water, or weather can strike at anytime without warning. Business owners need to establish an Emergency Plan and practice it with all employees. 

Companies can find vital information regarding emergency plans at ready.gov/business. 

-Update all emergency contact information and give to all employees.

-Implement Emergency Policies and Procedures.

-Sign up for alerts and warnings in your area.

-Conduct Emergency drills with employees.

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest offers a NO COST Emergency Readiness Profile (ERP) to help with your emergency planning. 

Don't wait until disaster strikes. Call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest at (402)408-0134 to discuss your ERP today! 

Emergency Ready Profile

9/29/2023 (Permalink)

As the sales and marketing representative for SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest, one of my key targets each month is to help businesses be prepared in the event of a disaster.  One way we do that is through our Emergency Ready Profile program. 

The Emergency Ready Profile, or ERP, is a free service provided by SERVPRO in which we help area businesses with such things as locating their emergency shut offs for their electrical systems, water, and gas.  We also compile information on their key contacts in the event of any emergency so the business is prepared and can calmly work through the situation.  Since this is a free service, there are no contracts to sign and no obligations to purchase any products.  Our only request is, if your business does suffer from a disaster to give us an opportunity to make it "Like it never even happened".

The ERP also contains tips and suggestions that the business can do before help arrives and provides somewhat of a roadmap helping them get back into their business more quickly and ultimately minimizing the interruption. 

One example where we had the opportunity to truly see the power of the plan in action was last February.  A local business suffered a frozen pipe on the third story of their building reaching numerous rooms within the facility.  With this plan, the building contact knew exactly who to call and within hours our team was on site helping them to restore function to nearly 50% of the rooms affected by the end of day 1.  The other rooms required more drying time, but they were able to recover a fair amount of potential lost income by simply having a plan in place and knowing what to do prior to help arriving. 

The best part of the ERP process is the amount of work the business owner or manager must do to get this set up is minimal.  A sales and marketing representative will come to your business and take the necessary photos and information, then finish putting the document together at the office.  This process usually only takes 30 minutes or less and the business owner can proof and edit the document as often as they would like.  When approved, the business will receive both a hard copy and a digital copy through our ERP app. 

For more questions or to set up an Emergency Ready Profile for your business, call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest at 402-408-0134

Preventing Water Damages from Dishwashers

9/29/2023 (Permalink)

It is pretty common nowadays to clean your dishes using a dishwasher. Having a dishwasher in your business, home or office means there is a water line which can lead to potential water damage if leaking starts to occur. 

SERVPRO recommends all Omaha restaurateurs, home owners and offices take the following steps to take care of their dishwashers to reduce the risk of water damage.

Do Not Overfill

It is tempting to fill your dishwasher to the brim especially when there only a couple of dishes left in the sink. However, tell yourself and your staff not the crowd the rack, as an over filled dishwasher is much more likely to leak. It is better to do a couple of smaller loads rather than trying to fit everything into one big load.

Do Regular Maintenance on Doors

Dishwasher door hinges become loose, door latches become misaligned or door seals break, all of which can cause a leak. Sometime the problem can be solved with a tightening of a few screws and you can use an epoxy patch kit to remedy minor seal breaks. However, other times it is not possible to fix the door hinges, latches or seals on your own and that leads to buying a new dishwasher.

Check the Tub and Hose

The tub and hose can both develop faults over time. Consistent and constant use may corrode the tub and create a big hole, and aging hoses can become unstable or cease to fit properly.

Use the Correct Detergent

Always use a dish washing detergent and follow the manufacturer instructions. The incorrect dish washing detergent or too much of the correct dish washing detergent can cause suds and even a blockage. 

These leaks, if not dried fast or correctly, can lead to mold.

For help with water damage to your business or home give SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest a call at (402) 408-0134 to help remedy the situatio

Services Offered by SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest

9/29/2023 (Permalink)

Do you know the services SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest offers?

1. Water Damage Repair and Restoration: Whether the damage is from heavy rains or flooding, a burst pipe, or an appliance malfunction, our techs are highly trained and certified in water damage restoration. We have specialized high tech equipment to efficiently dry out your property.

2. Fire Damage Repair and Restoration: Each fire situation is unique and requires a specific cleaning and restoration process. We have high tech equipment that allows to restore contents instead of having to replace. 

3. Mold Remediation and Restoration: From setting containment to using negative air, our techs are trained in proper mold remediation. 

4. Storm Damage Cleanup and Restoration: We have the resources and personnel to quickly respond to any storm or disaster. With over 1800 franchises, SERVPRO is close by and ready.

5. Commercial Cleaning Services: SERVPRO offers commercial COVID cleaning and disinfecting, along with proactive cleaning. We follow protocol set by the CDC, and use a hospital grade EPA registered disinfectant. 

6. Bio-hazard Cleanup: Crime scene cleanup, sewage backup, and suicide cleanup are a few of the bio-hazard cleanup services we offer.

7. Vandalism and Graffiti Removal: The media blaster can clean almost any surface. We can seamlessly remove graffiti or cleanup after a break-in.

8. Air Duct and Carpet Cleaning: Cleaning your HVAC unit can extend the life of the equipment. This can save you money, and give you cleaner air to breathe. Carpets act as a filter trapping contaminants. Regular cleanings can extent the life span of your carpet.

9. Odor Removal: Our techs are trained to identify and quickly eliminate offensive odors. 

Call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest for all your restoration and cleanup needs.

The Aftermath of a Storm

9/29/2023 (Permalink)

The storm tore through the area, and now the aftermath remains. After a storm moves through, you may be left with wind damage, flood damage, and more. Storms can cause significant damage to your residence or business. Calling a professional restoration company can prevent secondary damage and help to restore any damage to your property. 

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest has the expertise and skilled professionals with years of experience restoring homes and businesses. SERVPRO has state-of-the-art equipment and techniques to handle any storm damage that may happen. 

With flooding, can come significant water damage. Removing the water quickly is important, as mold can develop in 24 hours. 

Why SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest? 

1. Faster to any disaster. Our highly trained techs are available and ready 24/7/365. Our crews can respond immediately, as we understand timing is essential with any storm damage.

2. State-of-art-equipment. We have invested in specialized drying and cleaning equipment. This allows our crews to help restore instead of replace your property. Our equipment allows us to dry your property quickly and effectively, preventing secondary damage. This equipment saves you time and money when it matters most. 

3. Highly trained professionals. Our technicians are all WRT (Water Damage Restoration Technician) certified through the IICRC. The IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) sets the standards in cleaning and restoration. 

When the storm strikes, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest to properly and quickly restore your home or business. 

Helpful Tips to Prevent a House Fire

9/29/2023 (Permalink)

House fires kill and injure many every year, while leaving many without their home, and valuable memories and possessions. Fire prevention is more important than many realize. 

Ways to Prevent House Fires

-Establish an emergency plan with fire routes. 

-Test all smoke alarms in your home.

-Teach your children fire safety. 

-Perform home maintenance consistently.

- Use candles with caution.

-Don't leave food cooking unattended.

- Store flammables safely.

- Know where the fire extinguishers are and how to use them. 

- Check all electrical cords in your home. If wires are frayed, throw it away.

Fire preparation is an important part of safeguarding your home and your family. Knowing not only how to prevent a fire but also how to escape it and get quick fire cleanup is essential.

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest Comes to the Rescue

9/29/2023 (Permalink)

Kudos to the SERVPRO Omaha Southwest group that came to my home 9/17. This is the emergency crew that came to Milwaukee to help remove water from many flooded basements and buildings. Their timely help saved my lower level from being destroyed. I am so grateful for their service!! SERVPRO is the BEST!! Thank you Lathe for your team and your kind help getting things done. Miracles do happen!! 

Sincerely, Gretchen Burt

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

What are the Risks of Ignoring Water Damage

9/29/2023 (Permalink)

As vital as water is, it can also be incredibly dangerous to your home. If you notice any signs of water damage, it's a good idea to contact a local water damage restoration company in Omaha, NE so you can avoid expensive repairs in the future.

What Are the Risks of Ignoring Water Damage?

There are several risks to ignoring water damage. For example, while it may seem harmless to ignore a small leak under the sink or a leak that goes away when it's no longer raining, small leaks can turn into big problems in the future. All it takes is a little bit of water for a long period of time to cause structural and electrical damage to your home.

Structural and electrical damage to your home will involve costly repairs. If the wooden beams in your home need to be replaced or if your electrical system is so damaged by water that it's no longer safe to run electricity in your house, you can be looking at several thousand dollars in repair costs. In addition to potentially expensive repairs associated with structural damage and electrical damage, other risks of ignoring water damage can include:

Health Concerns

Untreated water damage can also be a cause of health concerns. For example, the bacteria associated with mold and mildew can trigger skin allergies, eczema, and asthma. Black mold in the walls has been known to make people very sick.

Mold and Mildew

Mold is bad for your health and mildew is bad for your senses. If your home smells like mildew, this is usually because there has been sustained water damage that is going untreated. It can be difficult to remove the scent of water damage. If you want to get rid of a mildew smell in your home, you may need to replace drywall and carpeting.

Signs of Water Damage in Omaha, NE

Most people will recognize the most obvious sign of water damage in the home, which is visible water stains on the walls or ceiling. However, water damage can also present as bubbling drywall, streaking paint, and warping of your interior walls. You may also notice higher water bills when you have untreated water damage.

What Is Water Damage Restoration?

Restoration for water damage is a series of services that address the underlying cause of your water damage to prevent major problems down the road. For example, emergency building services after water damage can include placing a roof tarp, boarding up damaged parts of the home, and temporarily moving items out of the home until repairs are made.

As for repairs for the building itself, a local company may use techniques that can remove initial water damage, use dehumidifiers and fans to evaporate water that may be hidden, and repair drywall, tile, hardwood, carpet, and paint.

Ignoring the signs of water damage in your home is a major mistake, particularly because water can cause major damage to your home that is costly to repair. Need to restore your home after water damage? Contact SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest to get a quote on your restoration project today.

What Should You Do If a Tree Falls on Your House During a Storm?

6/22/2023 (Permalink)

What_Should_YoDo If a Tree Falls on Your House During a Storm A tree fell on a home after a storm

It's a situation no one wants to be in, but sometimes, storm damage cleanup involves getting a tree off a house. If you're in Saunders County, SERVPRO of Omaha West is faster to any size of disaster. Here's what to do if the worst happens.


What Should You Do If a Tree Falls on Your House During a Storm?

Immediate Steps

If a tree falls on your house during a storm, the first thing you should do is make sure that everyone in the house is safe and accounted for. If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately. If the damage is severe, evacuate the house and call for help from a safe location.

If it is safe to do so, turn off any gas, electricity, and water main valves to prevent further damage or injury. It is important to turn off the gas and electricity after a tree falls on your house to prevent further damage or injury. If the tree has damaged gas lines or electrical wires, turning off the gas and electricity will prevent the risk of fire or explosion.


Turning Off Gas

To turn off the gas, locate the main gas valve, which is usually found near the gas meter. It is usually a round valve that is turned with a wrench. Turn the valve to the "off" position.


Turning Off Electric

To turn off the electricity, locate the main breaker box, which is usually found in a utility room or basement. The main breaker is a large switch that controls the flow of electricity to the entire house. Flip the main breaker to the "off" position.

It is important only to turn off the gas and electricity if it is safe to do so. If you are unsure how to turn off the gas or electricity, or if you are unable to access the main valves or breaker box, do not try to turn them off. Call your gas and electricity providers for assistance.


Call for Storm Damage Cleanup Help

It is generally not recommended to remove a fallen tree yourself, especially if it has fallen on your house. Removing a tree can be dangerous and requires specialized equipment and training. It is important to have a professional tree removal service remove the tree and clean up the debris. They have the experience and equipment to safely remove the tree and minimize further damage to your property.


Document

It is important to document the damage for insurance purposes. Take photos of the fallen tree, any damage to the house, and any injuries sustained. Contact your insurance company to report the damage. They will send an adjuster to assess the damage and determine the extent of coverage.

In the meantime, make temporary repairs to prevent further damage to the house, such as covering holes in the roof with tarps to keep out the rain.


Get Fast Help in Saunders County

If a falling tree has damaged your home, call us at SERVPRO of Omaha West / Saunders County right away at (402) 835-5985. We're the premier restoration company in area, and we can get you back in your house fast.

4 Steps Involved in Water Remediation

6/21/2023 (Permalink)

Water Damage Water damage from a leaking pipe

After a flood or extensive leak, quick water damage cleanup is essential because it minimizes long-term damage and eliminates health and safety issues. At SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest in Omaha, NE, we start by inspecting and characterizing the damage. Then, we remove the water, decontaminate the space, dry the affected rooms, and carry out the necessary repairs.


4 Steps Involved in Water Damage Cleanup in Omaha, NE

1. Inspection and Characterization

The first step is to accurately characterize the nature of the water damage to figure out what measures are necessary. We begin by determining whether there are any contaminants and if so, how they interact with each other. This helps us to understand the extent of your property damage and whether your health is at risk.

To characterize the contamination, we take samples of the water at locations where we believe the concentration of chemicals is highest. If there is a serious contamination issue, we work with emergency response partners. We might ask you to take certain precautions such as avoiding contaminated areas to prevent health and safety issues.


2. Water Removal and Decontamination 

Once we fully understand the risks related to the flood or leak, we can start the decontamination process. If there is still a large amount of water in your space, we use a sump pump to remove it. Then, we select treatment methods that disinfect your space, remove harmful chemicals, and allow you to use your space safely. Sometimes, infrastructure such as piping has to be dismantled and cleaned or replaced to avoid future issues.

In addition to decontaminating your space, we also handle the removal of wastewater and harmful objects. If some of your belongings are no longer safe to use, we'll dispose of them properly.


3. Drying 

After we've made sure that your space is no longer contaminated by pathogens or harmful chemicals, we can remove any remaining water and dry your space. The techniques we use depend on the extent and type of water damage and the location of the affected rooms. If there are a lot of windows and it is dry outside, we might start by airing the place out.

Additionally, we use fans, dehumidifiers, and desiccants to get rid of any remaining moisture. Some vacs can remove moisture from carpets and other soft surfaces. To minimize the damage, we'll help you to store wet items properly. Paper objects should be frozen because this prevents mold and mildew.


4. Cleaning and Restoration 

Finally, your space is ready to be deep cleaned and renovated. Again, the extent of the work we need to complete depends on the location of your room, its intended purpose, and the materials it is made of. Using the most advanced devices and products on the market, we'll remove any remaining odors and repair or replace all your structures, including the floors, walls, and ceilings.

Cleaning up water damage is a challenging and time-consuming process. To ensure your safety, it's important to work with professionals who can assess the situation, decontaminate your space, and carry out the necessary repairs. Get in touch with us at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest to find out about our services and schedule your cleanup.

Congratulations Amy Mason

8/24/2022 (Permalink)

Winner Amy Mason of the Quinn Insurance Agency

Amy Mason won a gift card from SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest at the 27th Annual IIAN Golf Tournament. Congratulations Amy! SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest sponsored a hole that was visited by 150-golfers from IIAN Association.

Commercial Water Damage...No Problem

7/14/2022 (Permalink)

Desiccant When you have a water problem we are here to help

Water damage in a commercial space is never a fun thing to deal with. Restoration professionals understand how crucial it is to act immediately when there is an emergency such as a pipe break or water in your business from plumbing failure. Recognizing that a flooded business causes a devastating setback to businesses, they do whatever it takes to get things back to normal as soon as possible.

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/ Saunders County has the right equipment for large commercial water damages. Our trailer mounted desiccant can remove 500+ gallons of water from a commercial space in 24 hours. This machine acts as a large dehumidifier drying out large spaces quickly. This helps to speed up the drying process, and saves you time and money when it matters most. 

No matter the size of the commercial water loss, SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/ Saunders County can handle it. Once on site, our highly trained professionals will do an initial assessment to assess the damage and form a scope of work to dry out the property. They have high tech equipment that shows moisture, and the path it has taken. 

SERVPRO will restore your property to pre-damage conditions. It is essential to call right away, to prevent further damage from water. 

Call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/ Saunders County to make your commercial water loss, "Like it never even happened."

402-408-0134

Commercial Water Damage...No Problem

6/30/2022 (Permalink)

Water Intrusion Our Desiccant can remove 500 gallons of water from the air in 24 hours

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County proudly offers commercial restoration services in Omaha,NE and surrounding communities. SERVPRO has invested in state-of-the-art drying equipment for any size disaster.

Large Loss? No problem.

When drying interior spaces, humidity control is crucial.Our trailer mounted desiccantincreases your productivity and profitability. It can significantly reduce drying time and save you time and money when it matters most. This machine can remove 500+ gallons of water in a 24 hour period. It can dry spaces 50,000+ sq ft. You can achieve faster and more consistent drying times. It’s also the most effective system on the market, outperforming refrigeration and convection-style heat-drying methods.

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County is the ONLY restoration company in the Omaha area to own a trailer mounted desiccant! Our techs are highly trained to use this state-of-the-art specialty equipment. Call SERVPRO today for all your water restoration needs. 402-408-0134

Let our staff make your large water loss, "Like it never even happened."

Mold Can Start to Grow in 24-hours

6/27/2022 (Permalink)

Water Intrusion Mold can start to grow in 24-hours

Did you know mold can start to grow in less than 24 hours? If water caused your basement to flood, mold can start to appear on surfaces that day!

The first step to preventing mold growth, is to identify the cause and fix the source of moisture. Mold thrives with moisture. Steam from a shower, damp basements, plumbing leaks, and flooding are examples of sources of moisture. Also, it's important to keep the humidity levels down in your home.

Follow your nose to find the source. Mold generally has a musty odor. Mold can appear to be slimy or fuzzy, and can grow anywhere moisture is found. If you detect any mildew smells, you may have a mold issue that would benefit from professional mold remediation.

Call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest and Omaha West/Saunders County at (402)408-0134 to help remediate your mold issue today. Not only can our team help to identify the mold, they can help with options for removal and remediation of surfaces affected.

Tornadoes...what to do

6/23/2022 (Permalink)

Did you know 1,200 tornadoes hit the US each year? Omaha, NE is a tornado-prone zone. It is essential to be prepared for natural disasters. Do you know the difference in tornado watch and tornado warning?

A watch means conditions are favorable for development. A watch can be issued up to 8 hours in advance of severe weather. It also usually covers a large area. Take necessary precautions in case bad weather strikes. Keep up to date with changing weather status. Have a plan to take shelter in case WARNING status is issued. 

A warning means severe weather is occurring or imminent. It covers a small area. When a warning is issued, take action immediately to protect your life! Seek shelter immediately. Stay away from doors and windows. Do not attempt to outrun a tornado.

What to do During a Tornado

Stay updated on weather alerts. Continue to listen to local news sources or weather services for tornado watches and warnings.

At Home: Go to the lowest level interior room. Stay away from windows and doors. 

At workplace or school: Proceed to your tornado shelter. Do not gather in big open areas, and stay away from windows and doors.

Outside: Seek shelter in a sturdy building immediately. If no safe shelter is available, lay flat in a ditch or ravine. Cover your head.

If disaster strikes, call the trusted professionals at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County to make your storm damage, "Like it never even happened." 

When Water Invades, Call SERVPRO

3/9/2022 (Permalink)

Water in a room, says SERVPRO If you suffer from a water damage, call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest to make it "Like it never even happened."

Do you know the right steps to take when you have a water damage? Timing is essential when it comes to water. When your home or business suffers a water loss, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest. Our crew is WRT (Water Restoration Technician) Certified. We have the expertise and state-of-the-art drying equipment to properly restore your property after a loss. 

Water Damage in Omaha, Nebraska?

Call Us Today- (402)408-0134

Even though there are no two water damages the same, the general process is the same.

Step One- Contact SERVPRO for Emergency Services

The restoration process begins when you call us. Our crew will take vital information to help us get the right equipment to you right away. Timing is vital to stop further damage from water. 

Step Two- Inspection

We assess the damage and form a scope of work to be done. Our crews use thermal cameras and meters to measure moisture. This helps us to determine how far the water has traveled, and to do a proper and complete dry out. Even though your carpet and walls may appear and feel dry, water can be underneath flooring or behind the wall. Our equipment helps to find all moisture.

Step Three- Water Extraction

Extracting and removing the water is vital. We have different methods of extraction, depending on the amount of water. This step is essential to help prevent any mold growth. 

Step Four- Drying 

We have specialized equipment to dry out your property. The techs are highly trained to use the right equipment and the right amount to dry out your property quickly and efficiently. 

Step Five- Clean and Sanitize

Our techs will clean and sanitize to restore your property to pre-damage conditions. We have specialized equipment to clean anything from carpets to contents. 

If you suffer from a water damage, call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest to make it "Like it never even happened."

Why SERVPRO Over the Other Guys?

3/9/2022 (Permalink)

A large green machine on a sliver trailer, says SERVPRO When disaster strikes, call the team with the knowledge and experience, the state-of-the-art equipment, and compassion at each step of the process.

Aren't all restoration companies the same? What sets SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest apart from the rest? 

Education: We know that knowledge is power! We have invested in all of our techs to take specialized training in water restoration. All of our techs are WRT (Water Damage Restoration Technician) certified. This is specialized certification through the IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) that gives techs a better concept of water damage, it's effects and techniques for drying of structures. Our leadership team has several years of experience in water mitigation as well as reconstruction. Lathe leads the team with several certifications and years of cleanup, restoration and construction experience. 

Equipment: We have invested in specialized state-of-the-art drying and cleaning equipment. The trailer mounted desiccant dehumidifier can remove 500+ gallons of water from a large space in a 24 hour period. It can dry spaces 50,000 + sq ft. This saves you time and money when it matters most. The complete ultrasonic cleaning system can be used to restore personal belongings instead of the cost to replace. The media blasting machine can remove soot and smoke damage, mold, and even graffiti from property. SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest has also invested in a brand new duct cleaning machine. We take pride in our arsenal of specialized drying equipment. 

Customer Service: We value our reputation. The techs are there to explain the process in full, address any questions or concerns, and help to get your property back to pre-damage condition. We strive to make the restoration process seamless for the customer. At the end of a job, we want to make sure the customer is happy with our services and would recommend us in the future.

Faster to Any Disaster: We know when you have an emergency, you need someone there fast! Flooding and water emergencies don't wait for regular business hours, and neither do we. Our crews are on call and ready to help 24/7- including all holidays.  The faster we can start the initial assessment process, the faster the water extraction process can start. Timing is essential to prevent any secondary damage.

When disaster strikes, call the team with the knowledge and experience, the state-of-the-art equipment, and compassion at each step of the process. SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest proudly serving Omaha, NE and surrounding communities.

What To Do Until Help Arrives

3/9/2022 (Permalink)

Three people cleaning wearing full white suits with full face masks. SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest has trained professionals ready to help 24/7/365- including ALL major holidays.

Biohazard contaminants should be considered very dangerous as they can cause serious health issues. Some common biohazards are sewer backups and flood water.  SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest has the proper equipment, training, and protective gear necessary to safely make any biohazard situation "Like it never even happened". 

Examples of Biohazards

Mold

COVID and other viral pathogens

Crime Scenes

Bodily Fluids

Hoarding

Animal Infestation

Flood Waters

Sewage Backups

Call (402)408-0134 for your biohazard cleanup needs!

After a biohazard has been found, make sure you clear the area if deemed unsafe. Call the appropriate emergency personnel if life-threatening. Call a professional restoration company to safely mitigate the hazardous situation. Flood water and sewage backups should be considered dangerous. Flood water can contain harmful contaminates. Biohazard situations don't wait for regular business hours, neither do we. SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest has trained professionals ready to help 24/7/365- including ALL major holidays.

Keep Your Pipes From Freezing

1/18/2022 (Permalink)

With temperatures dropping below freezing almost every night, it’s time to start thinking about how to keep your home or business safe from freezing pipes. Here are some tips that can help you through the winter:

  • Insulate exposed water lines in areas that are not heated
  • Irrigation systems that are exposed should be taken out or insulated
  • Drain any outside faucets or water lines
  • Turn off inside drain pipes that lead outside
  • Shut off irrigation systems
  • Close doors and windows tightly so cold air does not find its way inside

If your pipes do freeze, don’t panic. Before this becomes a major issue, there are a few things you can try so they don’t burst.

  • Soak towels with warm water and wrap them around the frozen pipes
  • Use a hairdryer on a low setting and apply heat to affected pipes
  • Do not apply excessive or overpowering heat to the pipes

There is a chance even if you follow these precautions that your pipes could still freeze and burst. If this happens to you, please consider contacting SERVPRO® of Omaha Southwest for help. We have a team of trained professionals that will be there on the spot to help you in your time of need.

Protecting Yourself and Others From COVID-19

11/7/2021 (Permalink)

A man in a white suit, gloves, and mask spraying disinfectant from a green fogger. SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County follows a three-step process for confirmed COVID cleaning.

As COVID-19 cases continue to rise throughout the country, it is more important now than ever to take precautions to keep you and your loved ones safe. Make sure you follow the CDC guidelines to ensure you are being as safe as possible. That means wash your hands often – especially when you are preparing food, after you use the restroom, after leaving a public place, and before touching your face or mask. Make sure you are avoiding close contact and wearing a mask when around others. If possible, try to maintain 6 feet (or two arms’ length) between yourself and anyone who does not live in your household. Following these guidelines will help keep you and others as safe as possible.

If you come in contact with someone that contracts COVID-19, begin a quarantine period and monitor yourself for symptoms. SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County follows a three-step process for confirmed COVID cleaning. First, we clean all surfaces 7' and down. Second, we use our EPA registered disinfectant to mist throughout the entire cleaning area. We use a ULV fogger to apply our disinfectant. The fogger gives the solution an electrostatic charge, allowing it to wrap conductive surfaces with an effective and even coverage. Last, our crew will do a final wipe down, and ensure no residue is left behind. SERVPRO tailors the cleaning scope to match the needs at hand. Each job can vary depending on if it's a confirmed case or preventative cleaning and the space that needs to be cleaned and disinfected.

Call the cleaning specialists at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County for all your cleaning needs at 402-408-0134.

7 Areas Where Mold Could Be Growing in Your Home

11/1/2021 (Permalink)

We don’t often like to think about it, but mold has the potential to grow almost anywhere inside of your home. All homes have the main elements to grow mold – oxygen, warmth, darkness, the inhabitance of mold spores, and a surface where it can form. Adding moisture, whether it is from a leaky pipe, heavy rain, or other outside factors is when you will start to see the mold begin to grow. It is entirely possible that you could already have mold in your home without knowing.

Areas to Look for Mold

Bathroom
As you may have guessed, bathrooms can be a breeding ground for mold. It is important to check your shower walls, bathtub, sink, & toilet areas. These are key places where moisture can be found, and if these are not properly maintained you may be looking at an unwanted mess.

Kitchen
Ranging from food that is forgotten about, to dishes that need to be cleaned – the kitchen is another area where mold is commonly found. In these instances, you should look in and under your sink, in and behind your refrigerator, behind your stove and microwave, and your trash cans. These areas are typical for finding leftover food that you may have forgotten about and you will want to rid of those immediately.

Bedroom
One area that you may not expect to find mold would be your bedroom. If you don’t have a mold-proof mattress or water-proof mattress cover, there is potential for moisture to seep into your mattress and gather mold. You will also want to be conscious of your windows and windowsills as this is a place where condensation can form. If this is not cleaned properly, mold can and will grow.

Living Room
If you are one who loves growing house plants, you will need to be wary of moisture that these plants can hold. If untreated, these can be a significant source of mold growth. Besides house plants, make sure that you always keep your couch cushions dry, and if applicable have your fireplace and chimney cleaned by a professional. These are all areas moisture can gather and mold can grow if unnoticed.

Attic
Since an attic is usually a dark room in your home, it has considerable potential for mold growth. Be sure to frequently check for leaks or water can pour in and create mold. Another area to check would be in your insulation and vents. These are two places that if not cleaned properly have the chance to also build mold.

Basement
Especially when it rains, basements are one area that you need to make sure stay clean or they can harbor mold. When looking for mold, you will want to check near any pipes, ducting, and vents. If your house has a sump pump or if your water heater is in your basement, these are areas that moisture can build up.

Garage
Especially when used for storage, you will want to check up on your garage as much as possible. When storage items aren’t frequently moved around, this gives mold the chance to grow as it can latch onto these surfaces if there is any moisture on them.

Evidently, there are many areas that mold can grow in your own home. Make sure you are checking and cleaning these areas frequently so you can ensure your own safety. If you do happen to find mold in any of these areas, call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest and Omaha West/Saunders County at (402)408-0134 to remediate your mold issue today. Our team will not only help you identify the mold you find, but we will give you options for complete removal and remediation of all surfaces that are affected.

Water Damage Restoration in Omaha, Nebraska

11/1/2021 (Permalink)

After a fire or flood having a trusted team of professionals to call who can come in and get the work done quickly is critical. SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest provides complete water damage restoration in Omaha, NE. It may be basement flooding due to a bad foundation or water damage cleanup in Omaha, NE after a flood occurs outside of the home. Rely on our team to help you.

When To Call for Water Damage Cleanup Services in Omaha, NE
There are many reasons to call our team to help you. Recognizing the signs of water damage in your home is the first step. That may include a musky smell, dampness in the basement, or areas of standing water. Consider a few answers to your most common questions:

Does water damage get worse over time?
Yes, it can worsen over time as the foundation becomes weaker due to the presence of water. Walls and other surfaces absorb the water, making them less stable, allowing more water in.

Does water damage happen immediately?
It can happen immediately if there is structural damage to the area. It can happen over time, too. That’s why it is so important to always pay close attention to changing conditions in your home.

What happens if you don’t fix water damage?
Water that remains in place will allow mold and bacteria to thrive, causing possible health effects to you and your family. Over time, this can also lead to structural damage of the home, making it more likely that you will have foundation problems.

Can water damage make you sick?
Yes, it takes just 8 to 12 hours for standing water to begin to grow mold, especially when there is a high amount of warmth present in the area. This can be especially harmful to those with allergies or asthma, but it can lead to health effects for many people.

What does water damage restoration include?
Water damage restoration begins with the removal of damaged and wet materials that cannot be cleaned. It includes cleaning all surfaces to minimize any potential mold buildup. In addition to this, all repairs can be made to restore the home in safe condition.

How long does it take to repair water damage?
This really depends on what is involved. Most of the time water damage begins with the removal of water and the drying out process, which can take hours to days. The cleaning and restoration work can take longer depending on how extensive it is.

What are the top benefits of water damage restoration?
Water damage restoration ensures your home is safe again for your family to live in. It also helps to protect the structural integrity of the home.

Mold Damage Remediation in Omaha, NE
Our mold damage remediation services in Omaha, NE provide the relief you need from mold. That includes removing all areas of mold, drying out and cleaning the space, and working closely with you to avoid recurrence.

Why Trust Us with Water Damage Restoration in Omaha, NE?
SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest offers everything you need, including 24-hour emergency service and highly trained restoration technicians that can handle even the worst situations. You can depend on us as a locally owned and operated company. We use the most advanced restoration and cleanings services. Call us today for immediate help.

It's Time To Prepare For the Season Ahead

10/25/2021 (Permalink)

Leaves in a gutter along a roof line Preparing for the upcoming seasons can save you money from costly storm damage that could have been prevented.

INDOORS- Check all windows and doors to make sure there are no drafts. Have your furnace inspected regularly. Change the filter to your furnace. Check to ensure your carbon monoxide devices and smoke detectors have new batteries and are in good working condition. Make sure your thermostat has new batteries, and is functioning well.

OUTDOORS- Do a roof check. Make sure you don't have any loose or missing shingles. Get them replaced or fixed before winter hits. Clean out your gutters and check the downspouts. Disconnect the garden hoses, and store them inside. Drain your sprinkler systems to avoid any water damage to your home. Service your winter equipment now. 

Preparing for the upcoming seasons can save you money from costly storm damage that could have been prevented. Once you have completed the maintenance, sit back and enjoy the beautiful changing seasons, knowing you are ready for whatever Mother Nature throws your way. 

Time to Prepare Your Omaha Business for Winter

10/25/2021 (Permalink)

Frozen icicles along a roof line Winter storms can be dangerous and cause great stress to businesses, so it is essential to have a plan.

Ensure your furnace is cleaned and working properly. Also, change the filter. 

Line up snow/ice removal. Make sure they are able to have the sidewalks and driveways cleared before anyone arrives to work. Have extra salt on hand for sidewalks. The last thing anyone wants is for someone to fall. 

Shut off any outside water source, and have the lines cleared. This will help to prevent frozen or burst pipes when the temperatures drop. 

Have a plan for staff. Let them know where to check for any weather related delays. Also, who they need to call if weather prevents them from coming to work. Add a storm damage restoration team to your list of emergency contacts in case of emergency. 

Winter storms can be dangerous and cause great stress to businesses, so it is essential to have a plan.

Professional Commercial COVID Cleaning Services

10/7/2021 (Permalink)

A man in a white suit, gloves, and mask wiping a table off. SERVPRO has been known as leaders in the cleaning and restoration world.

SERVPRO understand the value in business owners being able to reassure their staff and customers that they are doing all possible to protect against COVID. SERVPRO has been known as leaders in the cleaning and restoration world, and strictly adheres to protocols set forth by the CDC (Center for Disease Control & Prevention).

SERVPRO follows the CDC guidelines on cleaning for viral pathogens. First, it is important to pre-clean all surfaces before disinfecting. We use an EPA registered disinfectant throughout the area. Disinfecting is killing germs on surfaces or objects. The ULV fogger we use gives the disinfectant an electrostatic charge, allowing it to wrap conductive surfaces with an even coverage. A final wipe down is done to ensure no residue is left behind. 

Each commercial cleaning job is different, depending on the size and type of space, and if it is a preventative clean or a confirmed COVID clean. We tailor the cleaning scope to match the needs at hand. Call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County with all your cleaning needs. 

Using Ozone for Odor Removal

10/6/2021 (Permalink)

Any home or business owner that has had to face the after math of fire, knows the lingering odor of smoke is unpleasant. A simple surface clean doesn't always get rid of the odor. SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County has state-of-the-art equipment to remediate fire and smoke damage.

What is Ozone? Ozone is a molecule composed of three atoms of oxygen. The oxygen that we breath contains two atoms of energy. The third atom of oxygen can detach and reattach to molecules of other substances, which changes their chemical composition. This machine oxidizes and removes odor. These machine are not limited to odors from smoke. They can be helpful in many odorous situations. 

Our IICRC certified techs are highly trained in smoke and odor removal. For situations that may seem impossible to remove the odor, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County. 

Categories and Classes of Water Damage

10/1/2021 (Permalink)

A hallway with wet carpet that says Our goal is to help make it "Like it never even happened." SERVPRO The category and class of water damage decide what type and the amount of equipment needed.

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest and Omaha West/ Saunders County are known as the leaders in restoration. Our techs follow the IICRC's (Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification) S500 Standard for Professional Water Damage Restoration. The techs will assess the damage, and determine the category and class. These help determine the amount and type of drying equipment needed.

Category 1: Refers to clean water, or water that does not pose a threat to humans. A broken water supply line would be an example of this category. Note: A Category 1 can become a Category 2 after 48 hours.

Category 2: Water is also called gray water. This means that the water is contaminated and may cause sickness of ingested. This type of water contains microorganisms. Overflow from toilet bowls, or an appliance leak would be category 2.

Category 3: Water is known as black water. This type of water is unsanitary, as it contains bacteria and other organisms that cause sickness. The possible sources of black water damage include sewage problems and contamination of standing water.

There are also several classes of water damage. The class of damage is important when assessing water damage repair options.

Class 1: is limited water intrusion in a room. Materials absorb very little of the water from this type of damage. Water damage repair is the easiest in this type of situation. Water intrusion were wet, represents less than 5% of the combined floor, walls, and ceiling in the space.

Class 2: has a fast rate of evaporation, which means that carpets and cushions may be damaged. Water damage repair is more difficult when it involves class 2 damage. 5%- 40% of the combined floor, walls, and ceiling are affected.

Class 3: has the great amount of absorption. Over 40% of the floor, walls, and ceiling are affected.  

Call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County for all your water restoration needs.  

When the Pipes Burst in Your Omaha Business

10/1/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage can be one of the most devastating losses to a business if not taken care of properly. The more plumbing fixtures a business has, the greater the chance of a water damage. With water damage, timing is crucial. 

There are several different scenarios that may lead to a water damage in your Omaha business. With Omaha's cold winters, pipes can easily freeze with below normal temperatures. If plumbing is on an exterior wall, there is a greater chance of a frozen pipe. Appliances that have water attached to them are another source of water damage in a commercial space. Toilets and sinks can overflow and cause extensive damage. 

Call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County for all your commercial restoration needs. Our crews are highly trained and available 24/7- including all holidays. We are able to respond to your water damage quickly! Our state-of-the-art equipment sets us apart from the rest! 

Why SERVPRO Over the Other Guys?

9/30/2021 (Permalink)

A green machine in the bottom of the picture with a tall grey building in the background. This desiccant helped to dry out a large hotel.

Why SERVPRO?

1. Locally Owned and Operated, National Support

All SERVPRO franchises are independently owned and operated. SERVPRO has over 1800 franchises in the US and Canada. SERVPRO owners have resources across the country, with years of experience and knowledge in all things restoration and cleaning. When disaster strikes, rest assured SERVPRO will be able to handle any size disaster. 

2. Highly Trained Professionals

Our SERVPRO crew is highly trained in cleaning and restoration. All of our techs are WRT (Water Damage Restoration Technician) certified through the IICRC. The IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) certifies and sets the standards for the cleaning and restoration industry. Our team understands that disaster doesn't always strike at the most convenient time. Our crews are ready and waiting 24/7- including all holidays. We are faster to any disaster.

3. Advanced Specialized Equipment

The IICRC sets practical standards for restoration and cleaning. In the IICRC S500 for water damage, it incorporates psychometry. Psychometry involves the manipulation of temperature and relative humidity to remove moisture and dry a property quickly and effectively. An infrared camera may be used to identify water location for thorough water removal. Hygrometers can be used to measure the extent of moisture saturation. This helps to find lurking moisture even when it appears dry. Our desiccant can remove 500+ gallons of water in a 24 hour period. In addition to the desiccant, we have an arsenal of high tech drying equipment. 

Tips to Prepare for Winter Storms in Omaha

9/30/2021 (Permalink)

Winter weather can cause catastrophic damage in the Midwest. Winter storms and blizzards can bring extreme cold, freezing rain, snow, ice, and high winds. Storms can have little warning, and can last for several days. With the high winds, power can be knocked out, leaving many without a heat source. 

Prepare for a Winter Storm

 Make sure your home is properly insulated. Open cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate around your pipes.  Keep a slow trickle of water flowing through faucets to help prevent frozen pipes.

Gather plenty of food, water, medicine, and other supplies like batteries. You want to have enough in case a storm keeps you home for awhile. Keep an eye on the weather by staying up to date on all weather alerts for your area. 

When the storm hits, stay off the roads as much as possible. Road conditions and visibility can deteriorate quickly. Stay inside as much as possible. Frostbite and hypothermia can develop quickly in cold temperatures.

Planning and preparing ahead of time can prevent unwanted winter storm disasters. 

SERVPRO Can Help Restore Your Contents After a Fire

9/30/2021 (Permalink)

Did you know electronics can be cleaned using an ultrasonic system? SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County understands that it's important to get your contents cleaned to pre-fire damage, and back to the homeowner as quickly as possible. SERVPRO has invested in a state-of-the-art ultrasonic system. 

HOW IT WORKS: Bubbles are created by sounds waves as the waves move through the water. These bubbles implode as fast as they are created, causing tremendous vacuum energy. It's the combination of heat and pressure that gives the ultrasonic it's amazing cleaning power. 

FAST & EFFICIENT: Ultrasonic cleaning can be done in 30 seconds to a few minutes. A tiny pressure wave caused by the bubbles imploding, reaches into nooks and crannies of delicate items, and breaks up the dirt and contaminants. This process is more efficient than cleaning by hand. 

This machine can clean computers, coffee makers, electrical cord, lamps, fans, consoles, blinds, filters, figurine, stuffed animals, phones, TV's and so much more. This process can quickly clean your contents after a fire damage, and restore you property to pre-fire conditions. 

Call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County for all your fire restoration needs. 

Large Water Damage in a Condo Complex

9/30/2021 (Permalink)

A condo unit experienced a large water loss from a roof leak. Once on site, our production manager and crew assessed the damage, and put together a scope of work to be done. Each unit's damage was a little different, and required a different amount of drying equipment. 

Drying Equipment

Air Movers- These are energy efficient, high velocity, and can drastically speed up the drying time. Our air movers can chain together, and only use 1.9 amps. There are different types to use depending on where and how extensive the damage is.

Dehumidifiers- These work by removing excess moisture and humidity from the air. Dehumidifiers are commonly used along side of the air movers. This helps to prevent secondary damage, such as mold.

Desiccant Dehumidifier- Our trailer mounted desiccant can remove 500+ gallons of water per day. It can dry spaces 50,000 SF+. This is ideal for large commercial spaces. It dries quickly and efficiently to save time and money. 

With our arsenal of state-of-the-art drying equipment, we were able to dry this condo complex out quickly! Call the professionals at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County for all your water damage restoration needs. 

Teaching Kids Fire Safety is Essential

9/30/2021 (Permalink)

A little child holding a fire hose, wearing a fire hat. It's essential to teach our kids fire safety and prevention.

Did you know that the US Fire Administration estimates 300 deaths and $280 million dollars in property damage is destroyed each year as a result of children playing with fire? Adults generally know quite a bit about preventing fires, and fire safety, but what about our children? It's essential to teach our kids fire safety and prevention.

1. Prevent Fires- Keep all lighters, matches and other ignitable substances out the reach of children. Use flame-less candles to prevent the risk of fire. Keep children away from the stove while cooking. 

2. Smoke Alarms- Install smoke alarms throughout your home. Make sure to check the batteries often. Educate your children on smoke alarms, and what to do when they hear one. 

3. Fire Escape Plan- Make an escape plan for your home. Practice the fire plan with all family members at least twice a year.

4. Get Out & Stay Out- Make sure children know the exit plan, and to stay outside. Everyone needs to know how to call 9-1-1.  

Educating your children on fire safety is one of the best methods of preventing a household fire.

Tornado Safety Tips

9/20/2021 (Permalink)

Did you know 1,200 tornadoes hit the US each year? Omaha, NE is a tornado-prone zone. It is essential to be prepared for natural disasters. Do you know the difference in tornado watch and tornado warning?

A watch means conditions are favorable for development. A watch can be issued up to 8 hours in advance of severe weather. It also usually covers a large area. Take necessary precautions in case bad weather strikes. Keep up to date with changing weather status. Have a plan to take shelter in case WARNING status is issued. 

A warning means severe weather is occurring or imminent. It covers a small area. When a warning is issued, take action immediately to protect your life! Seek shelter immediately. Stay away from doors and windows. Do not attempt to outrun a tornado.

What to do During a Tornado

Stay updated on weather alerts. Continue to listen to local news sources or weather services for tornado watches and warnings.

At Home: Go to the lowest level interior room. Stay away from windows and doors. 

At workplace or school: Proceed to your tornado shelter. Do not gather in big open areas, and stay away from windows and doors.

Outside: Seek shelter in a sturdy building immediately. If no safe shelter is available, lay flat in a ditch or ravine. Cover your head.

If disaster strikes, call the trusted professionals at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County to make your storm damage, "Like it never even happened." 

Why You Should Call a Professional for Your Storm Damage

9/20/2021 (Permalink)

A stormy sky with lightning that says, "when lightning strikes Servpro strikes back! When the storm strikes, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/ Saunders County to properly and quickly restore your home o

The storm tore through the area, and now the aftermath remains. After a storm moves through, you may be left with wind damage, flood damage, and more. Storms can cause significant damage to your residence or business. Calling a professional restoration company can prevent secondary damage and help to restore any damage to your property. 

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/ Saunders County has the expertise and skilled professionals with years of experience restoring homes and businesses. SERVPRO has state-of-the-art equipment and techniques to handle any storm damage that may happen. 

With flooding, can come significant water damage. Removing the water quickly is important, as mold can develop in 24 hours. 

Why SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/ Saunders County? 

1. Faster to any disaster. Our highly trained techs are available and ready 24/7/365. Our crews can respond immediately, as we understand timing is essential with any storm damage.

2. State-of-art-equipment. We have invested in specialized drying and cleaning equipment. This allows our crews to help restore instead of replace your property. Our equipment allows us to dry your property quickly and effectively, preventing secondary damage. This equipment saves you time and money when it matters most. 

3. Highly trained professionals. Our technicians are all WRT (Water Damage Restoration Technician) certified through the IICRC. The IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) sets the standards in cleaning and restoration. 

When the storm strikes, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/ Saunders County to properly and quickly restore your home or business. 

The Storm Hit, Now What?

9/17/2021 (Permalink)

There are so many questions after your Omaha, NE home or business is flooded due to a storm. What should I do now? Who should I call? Follow these steps to assure your taken care of: 

  1. AVOID ADDITIONAL RISKS- Disconnect all the electronics in your home, these can start fires if left on. Contact utility companies if you suspect damage to water, gas, electric, or sewer lines.
  2. TAKE PICTURES- Before you remove any water or make repairs, fully document the damage of your home by taking photos or videos. Digital photos are best so they can easily be transferred and shared.The best approach is take a photo from each corner of the room, so you have overall photos of each room.
  3. PROTECT YOUR HEALTH- Even if the water in your home is clear, it could be contaminated by sewage or household chemicals. Wear gloves when removing water-damaged possessions, throw away any food that may have come in contact with the flood water.
  4. CALL YOUR INSURANCE COMPANY-Call your insurance agent as soon as possible after the flood. Always have their number on hand in your emergency bag. Document the damage, communication, and notify them of any repairs. 
  5. REMOVE WATER/MITIGATE MOLD DAMAGE- Have a restoration company like SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest remove the water quickly. Time is sensitive to prevent secondary damage when dealing with water damage. SERPVRO has different specialized equipment that can be used to extract water quickly and effectively. Mold can also develop within 24-48 hours after a flood. 

Call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest and Omaha West/Saunders County to help cleanup your storm damage. 402-408-0134. Our highly trained crews are available 24/7/365. Storms don't wait for regular business hours, and neither do we.

Commercial Water Damage in Omaha, NE? No problem.

9/17/2021 (Permalink)

A green machine on a trailer Our desiccant can remove over 500 gallons in 24 hours! This saves you time and money!

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County proudly offers commercial restoration services in Omaha,NE and surrounding communities. SERVPRO has invested in state-of-the-art drying equipment for any size disaster.

Large Loss? No problem.

When drying interior spaces, humidity control is crucial.Our trailer mounted desiccantincreases your productivity and profitability. It can significantly reduce drying time and save you time and money when it matters most. This machine can remove 500+ gallons of water in a 24 hour period. It can dry spaces 50,000+ sq ft. You can achieve faster and more consistent drying times. It’s also the most effective system on the market, outperforming refrigeration and convection-style heat-drying methods.

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County is the ONLY restoration company in the Omaha area to own a trailer mounted desiccant! Our techs are highly trained to use this state-of-the-art specialty equipment. Call SERVPRO today for all your water restoration needs. 402-408-0134

Let our staff make your large water loss, "Like it never even happened."

Top Causes of Commercial Water Damage

9/17/2021 (Permalink)

Dark office space with water damage It's crucial to take care of any signs of water damage immediately.

It's crucial to take care of any signs of water damage immediately. Commercial restoration services can be more challenging than residential. The size and structure of the property, the extent of the water damage, and the number of occupants will greatly affect the restoration process. Two commercial spaces with the same square footage could have completely different mitigation plans. While some issues are inevitable, many issues leading to water damage are preventable. 

1. Damaged pipes/plumbing- look for drippy, or leaking pipes. Check ceiling for dark areas indication water damage. Toilets also seem to be a major cause of commercial water damage.  

2. Poorly sealed windows and doors: Rain and snow can easily enter your business through poorly fitted windows. 

3. Roof leak: The roof is the main defense against mother nature. Check often for damaged or missing shingles. 

4. Appliances: Check appliances such as a dishwasher, refrigerator,  and commercial coffee maker to ensure the plumbing is correct and not leaking.

5. HVAC: The heating and cooling unit is a major culprit of commercial water damage. Make sure to inspect it regularly for any signs of water leaks or damage.

If you need commercial restoration services, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County. 

Why SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County

9/17/2021 (Permalink)

Green van with SERVPRO on the side When disaster strikes, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest!

Aren't all restoration companies the same? What sets SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County apart from the rest? 

Education: We know that knowledge is power! We have invested in all of our techs to take specialized training in water restoration. All of our techs are WRT (Water Damage Restoration Technician) certified. This is specialized certification through the IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) that gives techs a better concept of water damage, it's effects and techniques for drying of structures. Our leadership team has several years of experience in water mitigation as well as reconstruction. Lathe leads the team with several certifications and years of cleanup, restoration and construction experience. 

Equipment: We have invested in specialized state-of-the-art drying and cleaning equipment. The trailer mounted desiccant dehumidifier can remove 500+ gallons of water from a large space in a 24 hour period. It can dry spaces 50,000 + sq ft. This saves you time and money when it matters most. The complete ultrasonic cleaning system can be used to restore personal belongings instead of the cost to replace. The media blasting machine can remove soot and smoke damage, mold, and even graffiti from property. SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest has also invested in a brand new duct cleaning machine. We take pride in our arsenal of specialized drying equipment. 

Customer Service: We value our reputation. The techs are there to explain the process in full, address any questions or concerns, and help to get your property back to pre-damage condition. We strive to make the restoration process seamless for the customer. At the end of a job, we want to make sure the customer is happy with our services and would recommend us in the future.

Faster to Any Disaster: We know when you have an emergency, you need someone there fast! Flooding and water emergencies don't wait for regular business hours, and neither do we. Our crews are on call and ready to help 24/7- including all holidays.  The faster we can start the initial assessment process, the faster the water extraction process can start. Timing is essential to prevent any secondary damage.

When disaster strikes, call the team with the knowledge and experience, the state-of-the-art equipment, and compassion at each step of the process. SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County proudly serving Omaha, NE and surrounding communities.

Causes of Property Damage in Commercial Spaces

9/17/2021 (Permalink)

Two men holding a box with a house in it. Large or small, SERVPRO can handle them all!

Commercial property damage can be frustrating and overwhelming for any property owner. SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County offer a variety of commercial restoration services to restore your property to pre-damage conditions.

The most common types of commercial loss are:

1. Water Damage: Omaha was hit hard with severe flooding a year ago, and many commercial spaces were affected. Frozen or busted pipes, appliance malfunctions, and HVAC issues lead the board for causes of commercial water damage.

2. Fire Damage: Cooking equipment, heating equipment, electrical and lighting equipment, smoking materials, and intentional fire setting are the top five most common causes of fire in commercial setting, according to the National Fire Protection Association. 

3. Mold: Mold is found everywhere and grow on almost anything if moisture is present. It can develop in less than 24 hours. Mold spores are microscopic thrive on moisture. Mold has the potential to cause negative health effects.

Along with these common commercial restoration services, SERVPRO also offers commercial cleaning, duct cleaning, carpet cleaning, and graffiti removal. When it comes to commercial restoration services, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County at 402-408-0134. 

Services offered by SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest

9/17/2021 (Permalink)

green machine with a tall building in the background This desiccant can help remove moisture quickly in a large space.

Do you know the services SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County offers?

1. Water Damage Repair and Restoration: Whether the damage is from heavy rains or flooding, a burst pipe, or an appliance malfunction, our techs are highly trained and certified in water damage restoration. We have specialized high tech equipment to efficiently dry out your property.

2. Fire Damage Repair and Restoration: Each fire situation is unique and requires a specific cleaning and restoration process. We have high tech equipment that allows to restore contents instead of having to replace. 

3. Mold Remediation and Restoration: From setting containment to using negative air, our techs are trained in proper mold remediation. 

4. Storm Damage Cleanup and Restoration: We have the resources and personnel to quickly respond to any storm or disaster. With over 1800 franchises, SERVPRO is close by and ready.

5. Commercial Cleaning Services: SERVPRO offers commercial COVID cleaning and disinfecting, along with proactive cleaning. We follow protocol set by the CDC, and use a hospital grade EPA registered disinfectant. 

6. Bio-hazard Cleanup: Crime scene cleanup, sewage backup, and suicide cleanup are a few of the bio-hazard cleanup services we offer.

7. Vandalism and Graffiti Removal: The media blaster can clean almost any surface. We can seamlessly remove graffiti or cleanup after a break-in.

8. Air Duct and Carpet Cleaning: Cleaning your HVAC unit can extend the life of the equipment. This can save you money, and give you cleaner air to breathe. Carpets act as a filter trapping contaminants. Regular cleanings can extent the life span of your carpet.

9. Odor Removal: Our techs are trained to identify and quickly eliminate offensive odors. 

Call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County for all your restoration and cleanup needs.

How to Prevent a House Fire

9/16/2021 (Permalink)

Did you know working smoke alarms can double your chances of surviving a house fire? Here are a few helpful tips in preventing house fires. 

SMOKE ALARMS

Install smoke alarms in your home. It is essential to have smoke alarms appropriately placed throughout the house. Smoke alarms should be located in every bedroom, in hallways, and on every level of the house. It is important they are at least 10 feet away from your stove and other cooking appliances. It is just as important that you test the alarms regularly and change the batteries annually. 

FIRE ESCAPE PLAN

Make a fire escape plan, and practice the plan with all family members. Ensure that family members know how to exit all the rooms in the house, and designate a meeting place outside. Teach your children about fire safety.

APPLIANCE SAFETY

Stay in the kitchen if you are frying or broiling food. If you need to leave the kitchen, make sure to shut off the stove. Keep children and pets away from cooking surfaces. Frayed wires can cause fires. Replace all worn, old or damaged appliance cords immediately. 

STORE FLAMMABLES PROPERLY

Store flammables in a cool location and out of reach. Also, ensure all lighters, matches, and chemicals are stored properly. 

If there is fire, remember: Get out, stay out, and call for help. 

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County's highly trained techs are available 24/7/365 to help with any fire restoration needs. We take pride in making any fire damage "Like it never even happened." 402-408-0134

Be Prepared for Disasters

9/16/2021 (Permalink)

Did you know that floods are the most common natural disaster in the United States? Last year, Omaha was hit hard with significant flooding. Were you prepared? Here are some tips to help prepare for a natural disaster.

1. Make a plan for your family, including all pets, so that you and your loved ones know what to do, and where to go to protect yourselves. Practice evacuation routes.

2. Gather supplies- food, water, medicine, and household cleaning supplies. Make sure to have any necessary pet supplies. Also, extra batteries and charging devices for cell phones and critical electronics.

3. Keep important documents in water proof containers.

4. Move your valuables to higher levels in your home if possible. 

5. Sign up for weather alerts and warnings. FEMA Mobile App gives real time alerts from the National Weather Service.  

https://www.fema.gov/about/news-multimedia/app

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest and Omaha West/Saunders County has a 24/7 emergency response team that is trained to handle all storm damage in Omaha, NE and surrounding communities. Our experienced crews are available 24/7/365 for any residential or commercial location in the Omaha, NE area.

The Flames are Out, but Odor Remains

9/16/2021 (Permalink)

After a fire in your home or business, it can be overwhelming. Fires happen quickly, but the smell of the fire in your home or business can last for weeks. Odor removal is an often overlooked, but is a significant aspect of the fire restoration services that SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest and Omaha West/Saunders County offers.

Our highly trained team of technicians has state-of-the-art equipment for removing foul smells from a residence or business. Since each smoke and fire damage situation is different, each one requires a unique solution. The professionals at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest and Omaha West/Saunders County have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  

Call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest and Omaha West/Saunders County for your fire damage repair in Omaha, NE and surrounding communities. Let our crew make your fire damage, "Like it never even happened." 402-408-0134

Fire Damage in Omaha, NE

9/15/2021 (Permalink)

Did you know SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County offers fire, smoke, and soot restoration services?

Structural Cleaning: After a smoke or fire damage, your home's ceilings, walls, and floors will need a deep clean. SERVPRO's highly trained techs have the right equipment and products to start to restore your home to pre-damage conditions. 

Content Cleaning: All of the restorable contents in affected areas will be professionally cleaned. SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County has invested in a state-of-the-art ultrasonic cleaning system. This system aids in restoring many items instead of replacing. This drastically cuts down on cleaning time, and returns valued possessions to homeowners quickly. All restorables will be cleaned to pre-damage conditions. 

Deodorization: SERVPRO provides specialized services to rid your home of any odor following a fire. Our highly trained techs will seek out the source of the odor and eliminate them. There are many different methods that may be used to remediate an odor following a fire. 

Call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County to make your fire damage "Like it never even happened." 402-408-0134

Did You Know, Mold Can Grow in 24 Hours?

9/15/2021 (Permalink)

A white wall with black mold in the corner Mold can grow in less than 24 hours

Did you know mold can start to grow in less than 24 hours? If water caused your basement to flood, mold can start to appear on surfaces that day!

The first step to preventing mold growth, is to identify the cause and fix the source of moisture. Mold thrives with moisture. Steam from a shower, damp basements, plumbing leaks, and flooding are examples of sources of moisture. Also, it's important to keep the humidity levels down in your home.

Follow your nose to find the source. Mold generally has a musty odor. Mold can appear to be slimy or fuzzy, and can grow anywhere moisture is found. If you detect any mildew smells, you may have a mold issue that would benefit from professional mold remediation.

Call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest and Omaha West/Saunders County at (402)408-0134 to help remediate your mold issue today. Not only can our team help to identify the mold, they can help with options for removal and remediation of surfaces affected.

Commercial Water Damage in Omaha, NE? No problem.

8/23/2021 (Permalink)

a large stone building with two large trailers parked in front This commercial job required two large trailer mounted desiccants to help dry the large space.

As an Omaha commercial property owner, it is not a matter of IF it is a matter of WHEN. You may be forced to contend with common water issues such as a broken pipe or flooding. For this reason, it is important that you understand what to expect and, more importantly, how to deal with water-related headaches. Below are just four of the most common causes of water troubles that building owners have to deal with:

  • Broken pipes
  • Fire sprinklers
  • Toilet overflow
  • Supply line breaks

If you are faced with any of the above issues, there are steps you should take to minimize damage and repair costs.

BROKEN PIPES:

Broken pipes are par for the course of commercial property ownership and usually stem from old age or freezing temperatures. When faced with a broken pipe, you should shut off the water supply, locate the source of damage and make the necessary repair. If the damage is too great, you may have to contact your local plumber.

FIRE SPRINKLERS:

If your building catches fire, the fire sprinkler system should activate. After the fire department clears call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest's fire and water remediation team to help clean up the damage and restore your building.

TOILET OVERFLOW: 


Toilet overflow is another common issue in which many business owners are forced to deal. Because you never know what toilet water contains or what causes an overflow, you should not attempt to deal with the mess yourself. Block off the area and contact a plumber and water repair company right away.

SUPPLY LINE BREAKS:

Like broken pipes, supply line breaks can happen because of old age or because of adverse weather conditions. When a supply line bursts, shut off the main water valve right away to prevent further damage and contact both a plumber and a local water remediation team as soon as possible.

As a commercial building owner, you are bound to run into water-related issues. Whether the issue stems from a broken pipe or a sewage backup, the best thing you can do to minimize damage and keep costs low is contact SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest today at 402-408-0134

Faster to Any Size Disaster

8/20/2021 (Permalink)

Disasters don't wait for regular business hours, and neither do we. SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County are available 24/7/365 to assist with any size disaster. Our team takes pride in always being on standby and ready to respond. Our green team can properly handle ANY size water, fire, mold, or bio. All of our techs are WRT (Water Restoration Technician) certified. 

Faster to Any Size Emergency

In many water restoration situations, immediate action is needed. Time is essential when dealing with water damage. With over 1,800 Franchise locations, SERVPRO is faster to any size disaster. An immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Water is particularly invasive. It can quickly spread throughout your home or business. SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately.

We are Faster to Any Size Disaster and ready to respond 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. 

If you are in need of emergency restoration services, call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County! 402.408.0134

The Flames Are Out, but The Odor Remains

8/20/2021 (Permalink)

After a fire in your home, you quickly start to go through your home assessing the damage. It can be overwhelming. Fires happen quickly, but the smell of the fire in your home can last for weeks. Odor removal is an often overlooked, but significant aspect of the fire restoration services that SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest offers.

While our SERVPRO team is well educated in restoration techniques and cleaning processes to restore areas of your home that have been damaged aesthetically by an unexpected fire, the lingering odor that remains is often something that homeowners are less concerned with initially. It becomes more and more problematic as the home is being restored, but the smoke and charring scent of the fire’s destruction remains as powerful as ever.

Fortunately, our highly trained team of technicians has state-of-the-art equipment for removing foul smells from a residence or business. Deodorizing happens through the use of dense fogging machines. The machines are capable of producing a heavy chemical fog that is sprayed throughout the entire affected area, ensuring that all of the affected structure and contents are also affected by the fog.

Call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest today at 402-408-0134. If your home or business has been affected by fire damage our team is here to help! We are open 24 hours a day, 7 days per week, including holidays.

When Water Invades, Call SERVPRO

8/20/2021 (Permalink)

One man on the left using an extractor, and another man on the right carrying two green fans. When water invades, call SERVPRO!

Do you know the right steps to take when you have a water damage? Timing is essential when it comes to water. When your home or business suffers a water loss, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/ Saunders County. Our crew is WRT (Water Restoration Technician) Certified. We have the expertise and state-of-the-art drying equipment to properly restore your property after a loss. 

Water Damage in Omaha, NE?

Call Today- (402)408-0134

Even though there are no two water damages the same, the general process is the same.

Step One- Contact SERVPRO for Emergency Services

The restoration process begins when you call us. Our crew will take vital information to help us get the right equipment to you right away. Timing is vital to stop further damage from water. 

Step Two- Inspection

We assess the damage and form a scope of work to be done. Our crews use thermal cameras and meters to measure moisture. This helps us to determine how far the water has traveled, and to do a proper and complete dry out. Even though your carpet and walls may appear and feel dry, water can be underneath flooring or behind the wall. Our equipment helps to find all moisture.

Step Three- Water Extraction

Extracting and removing the water is vital. We have different methods of extraction, depending on the amount of water. This step is essential to help prevent any mold growth. 

Step Four- Drying 

We have specialized equipment to dry out your property. The techs are highly trained to use the right equipment and the right amount to dry out your property quickly and efficiently. 

Step Five- Clean and Sanitize

Our techs will clean and sanitize to restore your property to pre-damage conditions. We have specialized equipment to clean anything from carpets to contents. 

If you suffer from a water damage, call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County to make it "Like it never even happened."

402.408.0134

Steps to take after a fire

8/20/2021 (Permalink)

A black background with flames at the bottom, SERVPRO letters in the middle, and blue water at the top. Steps to take after a fire

Fire damage to any home or business can be devastating. Knowing there is a way to make the fire look "Like it never even happened," is reassuring. SERVPRO's Production Technicians are trained and equipped to handle an array of damage and are available 24/7.

The first 3 steps to follow after you have experiencing fire damage:

1. Evacuation 

In case there is someone still trapped in the building, because of soot and smoke damage, emergency services should be called such as the fire department to put out any fire remaining.

2. Calling the insurance company

After the fire has been completely put out the most challenging part of the fire restoration process begins. Make a call to your insurance company or agent and inform them of the incident that has just ensued.

3. Contacting your local SERVPRO

Fire damage experts recommend that you stay away from a building that has suffered from a fire until it has been certified safe to enter. Once contacted a project manager will head to your home or business to assess the damages and work with you and your insurance to get you back to pre loss conditions. SERVPRO will clean up the smoke smell and soot on all surfaces left after the fire leaving your building damage looking "Like it never even happened."

Duct Cleaning Care

5/10/2021 (Permalink)

Before and after duct cleaning. Before and after duct cleaning by SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest and Omaha West / Saunders County.

With the spring passing and summer about to start, it’s time to start thinking about duct cleaning for your residence. Ventilation systems are oftentimes the biggest culprit of poor indoor air quality so it should be a priority to inspect the ductwork for your home or business. Many sections of your heating and cooling system may not be accessible for a visible inspection, so ask a professional to show you any mold that they might find.

If your ducts were not properly installed, maintained, and operated, issues may become harmful to yourself and loved ones. If moisture is present, the potential for mold growth is increased and spores may be released into your home or business. If you think you may have mold growth, vermin, or excessive amounts of dust in your ducts – you should consider calling SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest and Omaha West / Saunders County for a quote at 402-408-0134.

COVID-19 Cleaning Importance

3/11/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO cleaning surfaces SERVPRO disinfecting an office from a COVID-19 exposure.

In the past year, everyone across the world has had to learn to live differently because of the COVID-19 pandemic. One thing everyone can do to be safe is following the CDC guidelines when you are in public.  If you encounter a positive COVID case at home or at work, you may want to consider a cleaning service to disinfect and ensure the virus does not spread. At SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest, we have state-of-the-art equipment to ensure you and the safety of your loved ones.

First, we clean all surfaces 7' and down. Second, we use our EPA registered disinfectant to mist throughout the entire cleaning area. We use a ULV fogger to apply our disinfectant. The fogger gives the solution an electrostatic charge, allowing it to wrap conductive surfaces with an effective and even coverage. Last, our crew will do a final wipe down, and ensure no residue is left behind. SERVPRO tailors the cleaning scope to match the needs at hand. Each job can vary depending on if it's a confirmed case or preventative cleaning and the space that needs to be cleaned and disinfected.

Call the cleaning specialists at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County for all your cleaning needs at 402-408-0134.

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest Has You Covered

3/8/2021 (Permalink)

Servpro vans in action. Call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest for your restoration and cleaning needs.

Disaster strikes when you least expect it, but SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest is here when you need us the most! Whether your residence or business needs restoration from a fire, flood, or mold, we have got you covered.

What separates us from the competition?

At SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest, we are family-owned and operated to give you the best customer service in Omaha. We will answer your call 24/7, even after business hours! We have all new equipment that we can dispatch at a moment's notice and will be ready for any disaster that strikes.

Our services:

Restoration:

  • Fire, smoke, & soot
  • Water removal & dehumidification
  • Mold mitigation & remediation
  • Move outs & content restoration
  • Electronic Equipment

Cleaning:

  • Air Ducts & HVAC
  • Crime scene & vandalism
  • Carpet & upholstery
  • COVID-19 disinfecting
  • Drapes & blinds
  • Ceilings & walls
  • Artwork & books
  • Deodorization

Give us a call at any time for a quote or more information at 402.408.0134.

Omaha Temperature Drops to Lowest in 25 Years

3/4/2021 (Permalink)

Pipe bursting in action. This pipe burst was caused by a frozen pipe thawing.

Last week with Omaha temperatures dropping to the lowest they have been in 25 years, residents should be aware of precautions they need to take in order to stop frozen pipes from bursting when they begin to thaw. Temperatures dropped below -23°F in a cold snap that the metro has not seen in years, and this week we will see temperatures rise to greater than 60°F. This is a weather pattern that is bound to see pipe bursts across the city.

                If one of your pipes burst, don’t panic. The first thing you should do if this happens is turn your water main off and call a plumber. Make sure the burst pipe is fixed to minimalize any damage that may have occurred from the water running into your home or business. Try to let in warm air and turn your heat up to prevent further damage from additional pipes freezing. Getting air to circulate is a big step in the drying process and will help you minimalize your damage.

Call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County for all your commercial restoration needs. Our crews are highly trained and available 24/7- including all holidays. We are able to respond to your water damage quickly and our state-of-the-art equipment sets us apart from the rest! Call us for a quote today at 402.408.0134.

Keep Your Pipes Safe This Winter

1/12/2021 (Permalink)

Frozen pipe This pipe break was caused by freezing cold temperatures.

With temperatures dropping below freezing almost every night, it’s time to start thinking about how to keep your home or business safe from freezing pipes. Here are some tips that can help you through the winter:

  • Insulate exposed water lines in areas that are not heated
  • Irrigation systems that are exposed should be taken out or insulated
  • Drain any outside faucets or water lines
  • Turn off inside drain pipes that lead outside
  • Shut off irrigation systems
  • Close doors and windows tightly so cold air does not find its way inside

If your pipes do freeze, don’t panic. Before this becomes a major issue, there are a few things you can try so they don’t burst.

  • Soak towels with warm water and wrap them around the frozen pipes
  • Use a hairdryer on a low setting and apply heat to affected pipes
  • Do not apply excessive or overpowering heat to the pipes

There is a chance even if you follow these precautions that your pipes could still freeze and burst. If this happens to you, please consider contacting SERVPRO® of Omaha Southwest for help. We have a team of trained professionals that will be there on the spot to help you in your time of need. Call us at 402-408-0134 for a free quote today.

Protecting Yourself & Others From COVID-19

11/8/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO technicians wiping down a counter after a COVID cleaning SERVPRO technicians wipe down a store after a COVID-19 cleaning.

As COVID-19 cases continue to rise throughout the country, it is more important now than ever to take precautions to keep you and your loved ones safe. Make sure you follow the CDC guidelines to ensure you are being as safe as possible. That means wash your hands often – especially when you are preparing food, after you use the restroom, after leaving a public place, and before touching your face or mask. Make sure you are avoiding close contact and wearing a mask when around others. If possible, try to maintain 6 feet (or two arms’ length) between yourself and anyone who does not live in your household. Following these guidelines will help keep you and others as safe as possible.

If you come in contact with someone that contracts COVID-19, begin a quarantine period and monitor yourself for symptoms. SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County follows a three-step process for confirmed COVID cleaning. First, we clean all surfaces 7' and down. Second, we use our EPA registered disinfectant to mist throughout the entire cleaning area. We use a ULV fogger to apply our disinfectant. The fogger gives the solution an electrostatic charge, allowing it to wrap conductive surfaces with an effective and even coverage. Last, our crew will do a final wipe down, and ensure no residue is left behind. SERVPRO tailors the cleaning scope to match the needs at hand. Each job can vary depending on if it's a confirmed case or preventative cleaning and the space that needs to be cleaned and disinfected.

Call the cleaning specialists at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County for all your cleaning needs at 402-408-0134.

7 Areas Where Mold Could Be Growing in Your Home

11/2/2020 (Permalink)

We don’t often like to think about it, but mold has the potential to grow almost anywhere inside of your home. All homes have the main elements to grow mold – oxygen, warmth, darkness, the inhabitance of mold spores, and a surface where it can form. Adding moisture, whether it is from a leaky pipe, heavy rain, or other outside factors is when you will start to see the mold begin to grow. It is entirely possible that you could already have mold in your home without knowing.

Areas to Look for Mold

Bathroom
As you may have guessed, bathrooms can be a breeding ground for mold. It is important to check your shower walls, bathtub, sink, & toilet areas. These are key places where moisture can be found, and if these are not properly maintained you may be looking at an unwanted mess.

Kitchen
Ranging from food that is forgotten about, to dishes that need to be cleaned – the kitchen is another area where mold is commonly found. In these instances, you should look in and under your sink, in and behind your refrigerator, behind your stove and microwave, and your trash cans. These areas are typical for finding leftover food that you may have forgotten about and you will want to rid of those immediately.

Bedroom
One area that you may not expect to find mold would be your bedroom. If you don’t have a mold-proof mattress or water-proof mattress cover, there is potential for moisture to seep into your mattress and gather mold. You will also want to be conscious of your windows and windowsills as this is a place where condensation can form. If this is not cleaned properly, mold can and will grow.

Living Room
If you are one who loves growing house plants, you will need to be wary of moisture that these plants can hold. If untreated, these can be a significant source of mold growth. Besides house plants, make sure that you always keep your couch cushions dry, and if applicable have your fireplace and chimney cleaned by a professional. These are all areas moisture can gather and mold can grow if unnoticed.

Attic
Since an attic is usually a dark room in your home, it has considerable potential for mold growth. Be sure to frequently check for leaks or water can pour in and create mold. Another area to check would be in your insulation and vents. These are two places that if not cleaned properly have the chance to also build mold.

Basement
Especially when it rains, basements are one area that you need to make sure stay clean or they can harbor mold. When looking for mold, you will want to check near any pipes, ducting, and vents. If your house has a sump pump or if your water heater is in your basement, these are areas that moisture can build up.

Garage
Especially when used for storage, you will want to check up on your garage as much as possible. When storage items aren’t frequently moved around, this gives mold the chance to grow as it can latch onto these surfaces if there is any moisture on them.

Evidently, there are many areas that mold can grow in your own home. Make sure you are checking and cleaning these areas frequently so you can ensure your own safety. If you do happen to find mold in any of these areas, call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest and Omaha West/Saunders County at (402)408-0134 to remediate your mold issue today. Our team will not only help you identify the mold you find, but we will give you options for complete removal and remediation of all surfaces that are affected.

Preparing Your Home for the Seasons Ahead

10/26/2020 (Permalink)

A roofline with orange and yellow leaves in the gutter Preparing for the upcoming seasons can save you money from costly storm damage that could have been prevented.

It's time to start preparing your home for fall and winter, and help prevent any damage from the potential storms ahead.

INDOORS- Check all windows and doors to make sure there are no drafts. Have your furnace inspected regularly. Change the filter to your furnace. Check to ensure your carbon monoxide devices and smoke detectors have new batteries and are in good working condition. Make sure your thermostat has new batteries, and is functioning well.

OUTDOORS- Do a roof check. Make sure you don't have any loose or missing shingles. Get them replaced or fixed before winter hits. Clean out your gutters and check the downspouts. Disconnect the garden hoses, and store them inside. Drain your sprinkler systems to avoid any water damage to your home. Service your winter equipment now. 

Preparing for the upcoming seasons can save you money from costly storm damage that could have been prevented. Once you have completed the maintenance, sit back and enjoy the beautiful changing seasons, knowing you are ready for whatever Mother Nature throws your way. 

Time to Prepare Your Omaha Business for Winter

10/26/2020 (Permalink)

A green pipe that is frozen with icicles around it. Fall is the perfect time to start preparing your business for winter. Preparing now could save you time and money from winter storm damage.

Fall is the perfect time to start preparing your business for winter. Preparing now could save you time and money from winter storm damage.

Ensure your furnace is cleaned and working properly. Also, change the filter. 

Line up snow/ice removal. Make sure they are able to have the sidewalks and driveways cleared before anyone arrives to work. Have extra salt on hand for sidewalks. The last thing anyone wants is for someone to fall. 

Shut off any outside water source, and have the lines cleared. This will help to prevent frozen or burst pipes when the temperatures drop. 

Have a plan for staff. Let them know where to check for any weather related delays. Also, who they need to call if weather prevents them from coming to work. Add a storm damage restoration team to your list of emergency contacts in case of emergency. 

Winter storms can be dangerous and cause great stress to businesses, so it is essential to have a plan.

Professional Commercial COVID Cleaning Services

10/7/2020 (Permalink)

A man in a white suit, gloves, and mask spraying disinfectant from a green fogger. Our defensive cleaning program gives your business a way forward by providing your employees and customers ongoing safety and assuredness.

SERVPRO understand the value in business owners being able to reassure their staff and customers that they are doing all possible to protect against COVID. SERVPRO has been known as leaders in the cleaning and restoration world, and strictly adheres to protocols set forth by the CDC (Center for Disease Control & Prevention).

SERVPRO follows the CDC guidelines on cleaning for viral pathogens. First, it is important to pre-clean all surfaces before disinfecting. We use an EPA registered disinfectant throughout the area. Disinfecting is killing germs on surfaces or objects. The ULV fogger we use gives the disinfectant an electrostatic charge, allowing it to wrap conductive surfaces with an even coverage. A final wipe down is done to ensure no residue is left behind. 

Each commercial cleaning job is different, depending on the size and type of space, and if it is a preventative clean or a confirmed COVID clean. We tailor the cleaning scope to match the needs at hand. Call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County with all your cleaning needs. 

Using Ozone for Odor Removal

10/6/2020 (Permalink)

A lime green rectangular machine Using an ozone is a quick and effective method to remove unwanted odors.

Any home or business owner that has had to face the after math of fire, knows the lingering odor of smoke is unpleasant. A simple surface clean doesn't always get rid of the odor. SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County has state-of-the-art equipment to remediate fire and smoke damage.

What is Ozone? Ozone is a molecule composed of three atoms of oxygen. The oxygen that we breath contains two atoms of energy. The third atom of oxygen can detach and reattach to molecules of other substances, which changes their chemical composition. This machine oxidizes and removes odor. These machine are not limited to odors from smoke. They can be helpful in many odorous situations. 

Our IICRC certified techs are highly trained in smoke and odor removal. For situations that may seem impossible to remove the odor, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County. 

Teaching Kids Fire Safety is Essential

10/5/2020 (Permalink)

Three cartoon children smiling, says Fire Safety at the top. Educating your children on fire safety is one of the best methods of preventing a household fire.

Did you know that the US Fire Administration estimates 300 deaths and $280 million dollars in property damage is destroyed each year as a result of children playing with fire? Adults generally know quite a bit about preventing fires, and fire safety, but what about our children? It's essential to teach our kids fire safety and prevention.

1. Prevent Fires- Keep all lighters, matches and other ignitable substances out the reach of children. Use flame-less candles to prevent the risk of fire. Keep children away from the stove while cooking. 

2. Smoke Alarms- Install smoke alarms throughout your home. Make sure to check the batteries often. Educate your children on smoke alarms, and what to do when they hear one. 

3. Fire Escape Plan- Make an escape plan for your home. Practice the fire plan with all family members at least twice a year.

4. Get Out & Stay Out- Make sure children know the exit plan, and to stay outside. Everyone needs to know how to call 9-1-1.  

Educating your children on fire safety is one of the best methods of preventing a household fire.

When the Pipes Burst in Your Omaha Business

10/3/2020 (Permalink)

Call the professionals at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County to Restore Your Omaha Business after Water Damage

Water damage can be one of the most devastating losses to a business if not taken care of properly. The more plumbing fixtures a business has, the greater the chance of a water damage. With water damage, timing is crucial. 

There are several different scenarios that may lead to a water damage in your Omaha business. With Omaha's cold winters, pipes can easily freeze with below normal temperatures. If plumbing is on an exterior wall, there is a greater chance of a frozen pipe. Appliances that have water attached to them are another source of water damage in a commercial space. Toilets and sinks can overflow and cause extensive damage. 

Call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County for all your commercial restoration needs. Our crews are highly trained and available 24/7- including all holidays. We are able to respond to your water damage quickly! Our state-of-the-art equipment sets us apart from the rest! 

Large Water Damage in a Condo Complex

10/1/2020 (Permalink)

A brick building with large white tubing on the outside, with a green van. This condo complex suffered a water loss from a roof leak. Our trailer mounted desiccant was able to dry it out quickly and efficiently.

Large Water Damage in a Condo Complex

This condo unit experienced a large water loss from a roof leak. Once on site, our production manager and crew assessed the damage, and put together a scope of work to be done. Each unit's damage was a little different, and required a different amount of drying equipment. 

Drying Equipment

Air Movers- These are energy efficient, high velocity, and can drastically speed up the drying time. Our air movers can chain together, and only use 1.9 amps. There are different types to use depending on where and how extensive the damage is.

Dehumidifiers- These work by removing excess moisture and humidity from the air. Dehumidifiers are commonly used along side of the air movers. This helps to prevent secondary damage, such as mold.

Desiccant Dehumidifier- Our trailer mounted desiccant can remove 500+ gallons of water per day. It can dry spaces 50,000 SF+. This is ideal for large commercial spaces. It dries quickly and efficiently to save time and money. 

With our arsenal of state-of-the-art drying equipment, we were able to dry this condo complex out quickly! Call the professionals at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County for all your water damage restoration needs. 

Categories and Classes of Water Damage

10/1/2020 (Permalink)

A living room with lots of water The category and class of water damage determine the type and amount of drying equipment needed.

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest and Omaha West/ Saunders County are known as the leaders in restoration. Our techs follow the IICRC's (Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification) S500 Standard for Professional Water Damage Restoration. The techs will assess the damage, and determine the category and class. These help determine the amount and type of drying equipment needed.

Category 1: Refers to clean water, or water that does not pose a threat to humans. A broken water supply line would be an example of this category. Note: A Category 1 can become a Category 2 after 48 hours.

Category 2: Water is also called gray water. This means that the water is contaminated and may cause sickness of ingested. This type of water contains microorganisms. Overflow from toilet bowls, or an appliance leak would be category 2.

Category 3: Water is known as black water. This type of water is unsanitary, as it contains bacteria and other organisms that cause sickness. The possible sources of black water damage include sewage problems and contamination of standing water.

There are also several classes of water damage. The class of damage is important when assessing water damage repair options.

Class 1: is limited water intrusion in a room. Materials absorb very little of the water from this type of damage. Water damage repair is the easiest in this type of situation. Water intrusion were wet, represents less than 5% of the combined floor, walls, and ceiling in the space.

Class 2: has a fast rate of evaporation, which means that carpets and cushions may be damaged. Water damage repair is more difficult when it involves class 2 damage. 5%- 40% of the combined floor, walls, and ceiling are affected.

Class 3: has the great amount of absorption. Over 40% of the floor, walls, and ceiling are affected.  

Call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County for all your water restoration needs.  

SERVPRO Can Help Restore Your Contents After a Fire

9/30/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO's Ultrasonic Cleaning System Can Restore Your Contents After Fire Damage in Omaha, NE

Did you know electronics can be cleaned using an ultrasonic system? SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County understands that it's important to get your contents cleaned to pre-fire damage, and back to the homeowner as quickly as possible. SERVPRO has invested in a state-of-the-art ultrasonic system. 

HOW IT WORKS: Bubbles are created by sounds waves as the waves move through the water. These bubbles implode as fast as they are created, causing tremendous vacuum energy. It's the combination of heat and pressure that gives the ultrasonic it's amazing cleaning power. 

FAST & EFFICIENT: Ultrasonic cleaning can be done in 30 seconds to a few minutes. A tiny pressure wave caused by the bubbles imploding, reaches into nooks and crannies of delicate items, and breaks up the dirt and contaminants. This process is more efficient than cleaning by hand. 

This machine can clean computers, coffee makers, electrical cord, lamps, fans, consoles, blinds, filters, figurine, stuffed animals, phones, TV's and so much more. This process can quickly clean your contents after a fire damage, and restore you property to pre-fire conditions. 

Call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County for all your fire restoration needs. 

Tips to Prepare for Winter Storms in Omaha

9/29/2020 (Permalink)

Snowy background, says Storm Damage, We are here to help, with SERVPRO logo at the top Planning and preparing ahead of time can prevent unwanted winter storm disasters.

Winter weather can cause catastrophic damage in the Midwest. Winter storms and blizzards can bring extreme cold, freezing rain, snow, ice, and high winds. Storms can have little warning, and can last for several days. With the high winds, power can be knocked out, leaving many without a heat source. 

Prepare for a Winter Storm

 Make sure your home is properly insulated. Open cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate around your pipes.  Keep a slow trickle of water flowing through faucets to help prevent frozen pipes.

Gather plenty of food, water, medicine, and other supplies like batteries. You want to have enough in case a storm keeps you home for awhile. Keep an eye on the weather by staying up to date on all weather alerts for your area. 

When the storm hits, stay off the roads as much as possible. Road conditions and visibility can deteriorate quickly. Stay inside as much as possible. Frostbite and hypothermia can develop quickly in cold temperatures.

Planning and preparing ahead of time can prevent unwanted winter storm disasters. 

Why SERVPRO Over the Other Guys?

9/28/2020 (Permalink)

A green machine in the bottom of the picture with a tall grey building in the background. The trailer mounted desiccant helped dry out a large hotel after a water damage.

Why SERVPRO?

1. Locally Owned and Operated, National Support

All SERVPRO franchises are independently owned and operated. SERVPRO has over 1800 franchises in the US and Canada. SERVPRO owners have resources across the country, with years of experience and knowledge in all things restoration and cleaning. When disaster strikes, rest assured SERVPRO will be able to handle any size disaster. 

2. Highly Trained Professionals

Our SERVPRO crew is highly trained in cleaning and restoration. All of our techs are WRT (Water Damage Restoration Technician) certified through the IICRC. The IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) certifies and sets the standards for the cleaning and restoration industry. Our team understands that disaster doesn't always strike at the most convenient time. Our crews are ready and waiting 24/7- including all holidays. We are faster to any disaster.

3. Advanced Specialized Equipment

The IICRC sets practical standards for restoration and cleaning. In the IICRC S500 for water damage, it incorporates psychometry. Psychometry involves the manipulation of temperature and relative humidity to remove moisture and dry a property quickly and effectively. An infrared camera may be used to identify water location for thorough water removal. Hygrometers can be used to measure the extent of moisture saturation. This helps to find lurking moisture even when it appears dry. Our desiccant can remove 500+ gallons of water in a 24 hour period. In addition to the desiccant, we have an arsenal of high tech drying equipment. 

Why Should You Call a Professional with Storm Related Damage?

9/22/2020 (Permalink)

A dark sky with multiple lighting bolts, says when lightning strikes SERVPRO strikes back! When the storm strikes, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/ Saunders County to properly and quickly restore your space

The storm tore through the area, and now the aftermath remains. After a storm moves through, you may be left with wind damage, flood damage, and more. Storms can cause significant damage to your residence or business. Calling a professional restoration company can prevent secondary damage and help to restore any damage to your property. 

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/ Saunders County has the expertise and skilled professionals with years of experience restoring homes and businesses. SERVPRO has state-of-the-art equipment and techniques to handle any storm damage that may happen. 

With flooding, can come significant water damage. Removing the water quickly is important, as mold can develop in 24 hours. 

Why SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/ Saunders County? 

1. Faster to any disaster. Our highly trained techs are available and ready 24/7/365. Our crews can respond immediately, as we understand timing is essential with any storm damage.

2. State-of-art-equipment. We have invested in specialized drying and cleaning equipment. This allows our crews to help restore instead of replace your property. Our equipment allows us to dry your property quickly and effectively, preventing secondary damage. This equipment saves you time and money when it matters most. 

3. Highly trained professionals. Our technicians are all WRT (Water Damage Restoration Technician) certified through the IICRC. The IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) sets the standards in cleaning and restoration. 

When the storm strikes, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/ Saunders County to properly and quickly restore your home or business. 

Tornado Safety Tips

9/21/2020 (Permalink)

A staircase and broken lumber from a home after a natural disaster. It is essential to be prepared for natural disasters.

Did you know 1,200 tornadoes hit the US each year? Omaha, NE is a tornado-prone zone. It is essential to be prepared for natural disasters. Do you know the difference in tornado watch and tornado warning?

A watch means conditions are favorable for development. A watch can be issued up to 8 hours in advance of severe weather. It also usually covers a large area. Take necessary precautions in case bad weather strikes. Keep up to date with changing weather status. Have a plan to take shelter in case WARNING status is issued. 

A warning means severe weather is occurring or imminent. It covers a small area. When a warning is issued, take action immediately to protect your life! Seek shelter immediately. Stay away from doors and windows. Do not attempt to outrun a tornado.

What to do During a Tornado

Stay updated on weather alerts. Continue to listen to local news sources or weather services for tornado watches and warnings.

At Home: Go to the lowest level interior room. Stay away from windows and doors. 

At workplace or school: Proceed to your tornado shelter. Do not gather in big open areas, and stay away from windows and doors.

Outside: Seek shelter in a sturdy building immediately. If no safe shelter is available, lay flat in a ditch or ravine. Cover your head.

If disaster strikes, call the trusted professionals at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County to make your storm damage, "Like it never even happened." 

The Top Causes of Commercial Property Damage

9/16/2020 (Permalink)

A lime green semi with trailer that says SERVPRO, 4 SERVPRO workers with hardhats, and city skyline in the background. When it comes to commercial restoration services, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County at 402-408-0134.

Commercial property damage can be frustrating and overwhelming for any property owner. SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County offer a variety of commercial restoration services to restore your property to pre-damage conditions.

The most common types of commercial loss are:

1. Water Damage: Omaha was hit hard with severe flooding a year ago, and many commercial spaces were affected. Frozen or busted pipes, appliance malfunctions, and HVAC issues lead the board for causes of commercial water damage.

2. Fire Damage: Cooking equipment, heating equipment, electrical and lighting equipment, smoking materials, and intentional fire setting are the top five most common causes of fire in commercial setting, according to the National Fire Protection Association. 

3. Mold: Mold is found everywhere and grow on almost anything if moisture is present. It can develop in less than 24 hours. Mold spores are microscopic thrive on moisture. Mold has the potential to cause negative health effects.

Along with these common commercial restoration services, SERVPRO also offers commercial cleaning, duct cleaning, carpet cleaning, and graffiti removal. When it comes to commercial restoration services, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County at 402-408-0134. 

Do you know what services are offered by SERVPRO?

9/16/2020 (Permalink)

Three lime green SERVPRO vans Call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County for all your restoration and cleanup needs.

Do you know the services SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County offers?

1. Water Damage Repair and Restoration: Whether the damage is from heavy rains or flooding, a burst pipe, or an appliance malfunction, our techs are highly trained and certified in water damage restoration. We have specialized high tech equipment to efficiently dry out your property.

2. Fire Damage Repair and Restoration: Each fire situation is unique and requires a specific cleaning and restoration process. We have high tech equipment that allows to restore contents instead of having to replace. 

3. Mold Remediation and Restoration: From setting containment to using negative air, our techs are trained in proper mold remediation. 

4. Storm Damage Cleanup and Restoration: We have the resources and personnel to quickly respond to any storm or disaster. With over 1800 franchises, SERVPRO is close by and ready.

5. Commercial Cleaning Services: SERVPRO offers commercial COVID cleaning and disinfecting, along with proactive cleaning. We follow protocol set by the CDC, and use a hospital grade EPA registered disinfectant. 

6. Bio-hazard Cleanup: Crime scene cleanup, sewage backup, and suicide cleanup are a few of the bio-hazard cleanup services we offer.

7. Vandalism and Graffiti Removal: The media blaster can clean almost any surface. We can seamlessly remove graffiti or cleanup after a break-in.

8. Air Duct and Carpet Cleaning: Cleaning your HVAC unit can extend the life of the equipment. This can save you money, and give you cleaner air to breathe. Carpets act as a filter trapping contaminants. Regular cleanings can extent the life span of your carpet.

9. Odor Removal: Our techs are trained to identify and quickly eliminate offensive odors. 

Call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County for all your restoration and cleanup needs.

Why SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County

9/15/2020 (Permalink)

Three lime green vans with SERVPRO on the side, parked in front of a grey building. When disaster strikes, call the team with the knowledge and experience, the state-of-the-art equipment, and compassion at each step of the process.

Aren't all restoration companies the same? What sets SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County apart from the rest? 

Education: We know that knowledge is power! We have invested in all of our techs to take specialized training in water restoration. All of our techs are WRT (Water Damage Restoration Technician) certified. This is specialized certification through the IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) that gives techs a better concept of water damage, it's effects and techniques for drying of structures. Lathe leads the team with several certifications and years of cleanup, restoration and construction experience. 

Equipment: We have invested in specialized state-of-the-art drying and cleaning equipment. The trailer mounted desiccant dehumidifier can remove 500+ gallons of water from a large space in a 24 hour period. It can dry spaces 50,000 + sq ft. This saves you time and money when it matters most. The complete ultrasonic cleaning system can be used to restore personal belongings instead of the cost to replace. The media blasting machine can remove soot and smoke damage, mold, and even graffiti from property. SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest has also invested in a brand new duct cleaning machine. We take pride in our arsenal of specialized drying equipment. 

Customer Service: We value our reputation. The techs are there to explain the process in full, address any questions or concerns, and help to get your property back to pre-damage condition. We strive to make the restoration process seamless for the customer. At the end of a job, we want to make sure the customer is happy with our services and would recommend us in the future.

Faster to Any Disaster: We know when you have an emergency, you need someone there fast! Flooding and water emergencies don't wait for regular business hours, and neither do we. Our crews are on call and ready to help 24/7- including all holidays.  The faster we can start the initial assessment process, the faster the water extraction process can start.Timing is essential to prevent any secondary damage.

When disaster strikes, call the team with the knowledge and experience, the state-of-the-art equipment, and compassion at each step of the process. SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County proudly serving Omaha, NE and surrounding communities.

Top Causes of Commercial Water Damage

9/15/2020 (Permalink)

An office with many cubicles and water pouring down from the ceiling. If you need commercial restoration services, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County.

It's crucial to take care of any signs of water damage immediately. Commercial restoration services can be more challenging than residential. The size and structure of the property, the extent of the water damage, and the number of occupants will greatly affect the restoration process. Two commercial spaces with the same square footage could have completely different mitigation plans. While some issues are inevitable, many issues leading to water damage are preventable. 

1. Damaged pipes/plumbing- look for drippy, or leaking pipes. Check ceiling for dark areas indication water damage. Toilets also seem to be a major cause of commercial water damage.  

2. Poorly sealed windows and doors: Rain and snow can easily enter your business through poorly fitted windows. 

3. Roof leak: The roof is the main defense against mother nature. Check often for damaged or missing shingles. 

4. Appliances: Check appliances such as a dishwasher, refrigerator,  and commercial coffee maker to ensure the plumbing is correct and not leaking.

5. HVAC: The heating and cooling unit is a major culprit of commercial water damage. Make sure to inspect it regularly for any signs of water leaks or damage.

If you need commercial restoration services, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County. 

Commercial Water Damage in Omaha, NE? No problem.

9/14/2020 (Permalink)

A green and orange pickup truck hooked to a silver trailer with a large green machine sitting on the trailer bed. Our large loss desiccant can remove 500+ gallons of water per day! This saves you time and money when it matters most!

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County proudly offers commercial restoration services in Omaha,NE and surrounding communities. SERVPRO has invested in state-of-the-art drying equipment for any size disaster.

Large Loss? No problem.

When drying interior spaces, humidity control is crucial.Our trailer mounted desiccantincreases your productivity and profitability. It can significantly reduce drying time and save you time and money when it matters most. This machine can remove 500+ gallons of water in a 24 hour period. It can dry spaces 50,000+ sq ft. You can achieve faster and more consistent drying times. It’s also the most effective system on the market, outperforming refrigeration and convection-style heat-drying methods.

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County is the ONLY restoration company in the Omaha area to own a trailer mounted desiccant! Our techs are highly trained to use this state-of-the-art specialty equipment. Call SERVPRO today for all your water restoration needs. 402-408-0134

Let our staff make your large water loss, "Like it never even happened."

The Storm Hit, Now What?

9/14/2020 (Permalink)

A man holding a hose extracting water from carpet. If you have storm damage in Omaha, NE call the professionals at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County.

There are so many questions after your Omaha, NE home or business is flooded due to a storm. What should I do now? Who should I call? Follow these steps to assure your taken care of: 

  1. AVOID ADDITIONAL RISKS- Disconnect all the electronics in your home, these can start fires if left on. Contact utility companies if you suspect damage to water, gas, electric, or sewer lines.
  2. TAKE PICTURES- Before you remove any water or make repairs, fully document the damage of your home by taking photos or videos. Digital photos are best so they can easily be transferred and shared.The best approach is take a photo from each corner of the room, so you have overall photos of each room.
  3. PROTECT YOUR HEALTH- Even if the water in your home is clear, it could be contaminated by sewage or household chemicals. Wear gloves when removing water-damaged possessions, throw away any food that may have come in contact with the flood water.
  4. CALL YOUR INSURANCE COMPANY-Call your insurance agent as soon as possible after the flood. Always have their number on hand in your emergency bag. Document the damage, communication, and notify them of any repairs. 
  5. REMOVE WATER/MITIGATE MOLD DAMAGE- Have a restoration company like SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest remove the water quickly. Time is sensitive to prevent secondary damage when dealing with water damage. SERPVRO has different specialized equipment that can be used to extract water quickly and effectively. Mold can also develop within 24-48 hours after a flood. 

Call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest and Omaha West/Saunders County to help cleanup your storm damage. 402-408-0134. Our highly trained crews are available 24/7/365. Storms don't wait for regular business hours, and neither do we.

The Flames Are Out, but The Odor Remains

9/14/2020 (Permalink)

A large orange flame on a stove, says SERVPRO Fire Damage in the middle. Our highly trained team of technicians has state-of-the-art equipment for removing foul smells from a residence or business.

After a fire in your home or business, it can be overwhelming. Fires happen quickly, but the smell of the fire in your home or business can last for weeks. Odor removal is an often overlooked, but is a significant aspect of the fire restoration services that SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest and Omaha West/Saunders County offers.

Our highly trained team of technicians has state-of-the-art equipment for removing foul smells from a residence or business. Since each smoke and fire damage situation is different, each one requires a unique solution. The professionals at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest and Omaha West/Saunders County have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  

Call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest and Omaha West/Saunders County for your fire damage repair in Omaha, NE and surrounding communities. Let our crew make your fire damage, "Like it never even happened." 402-408-0134

When Disaster Strikes, Be Prepared

9/14/2020 (Permalink)

Muddy flood water with trees and blue sky in the background. Here are some tips to help prepare when a flood threatens.

Did you know that floods are the most common natural disaster in the United States? Last year, Omaha was hit hard with significant flooding. Were you prepared? Here are some tips to help prepare for a natural disaster.

1. Make a plan for your family, including all pets, so that you and your loved ones know what to do, and where to go to protect yourselves. Practice evacuation routes.

2. Gather supplies- food, water, medicine, and household cleaning supplies. Make sure to have any necessary pet supplies. Also, extra batteries and charging devices for cell phones and critical electronics.

3. Keep important documents in water proof containers.

4. Move your valuables to higher levels in your home if possible. 

5. Sign up for weather alerts and warnings. FEMA Mobile App gives real time alerts from the National Weather Service.  

https://www.fema.gov/about/news-multimedia/app

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest and Omaha West/Saunders County has a 24/7 emergency response team that is trained to handle all storm damage in Omaha, NE and surrounding communities. Our experienced crews are available 24/7/365 for any residential or commercial location in the Omaha, NE area.

Home Fire Prevention Tips

9/3/2020 (Permalink)

A smoke alarm on a ceiling, SERVPRO logo, states Smoke Alarms No one can predict when a disaster will strike. The best tip is to be prepared.

Did you know working smoke alarms can double your chances of surviving a house fire? Here are a few helpful tips in preventing house fires. 

SMOKE ALARMS

Install smoke alarms in your home. It is essential to have smoke alarms appropriately placed throughout the house. Smoke alarms should be located in every bedroom, in hallways, and on every level of the house. It is important they are at least 10 feet away from your stove and other cooking appliances. It is just as important that you test the alarms regularly and change the batteries annually. 

FIRE ESCAPE PLAN

Make a fire escape plan, and practice the plan with all family members. Ensure that family members know how to exit all the rooms in the house, and designate a meeting place outside. Teach your children about fire safety.

APPLIANCE SAFETY

Stay in the kitchen if you are frying or broiling food. If you need to leave the kitchen, make sure to shut off the stove. Keep children and pets away from cooking surfaces. Frayed wires can cause fires. Replace all worn, old or damaged appliance cords immediately. 

STORE FLAMMABLES PROPERLY

Store flammables in a cool location and out of reach. Also, ensure all lighters, matches, and chemicals are stored properly. 

If there is fire, remember: Get out, stay out, and call for help. 

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County's highly trained techs are available 24/7/365 to help with any fire restoration needs. We take pride in making any fire damage "Like it never even happened." 402-408-0134

Did you know mold can start to grow in less than 24 hours?

9/1/2020 (Permalink)

Black mold on a concrete wall Mold can appear within 24 hours of a water loss with the right conditions.

Did you know mold can start to grow in less than 24 hours? If water caused your basement to flood, mold can start to appear on surfaces that day!

The first step to preventing mold growth, is to identify the cause and fix the source of moisture. Mold thrives with moisture. Steam from a shower, damp basements, plumbing leaks, and flooding are examples of sources of moisture. Also, it's important to keep the humidity levels down in your home.

Follow your nose to find the source. Mold generally has a musty odor. Mold can appear to be slimy or fuzzy, and can grow anywhere moisture is found. If you detect any mildew smells, you may have a mold issue that would benefit from professional mold remediation.

Call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest and Omaha West/Saunders County at (402)408-0134 to help remediate your mold issue today. Not only can our team help to identify the mold, they can help with options for removal and remediation of surfaces affected.

Fire Damage in Omaha, NE

9/1/2020 (Permalink)

Did you know SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County offers fire, smoke, and soot restoration services?

Structural Cleaning: After a smoke or fire damage, your home's ceilings, walls, and floors will need a deep clean. SERVPRO's highly trained techs have the right equipment and products to start to restore your home to pre-damage conditions. 

Content Cleaning: All of the restorable contents in affected areas will be professionally cleaned. SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County has invested in a state-of-the-art ultrasonic cleaning system. This system aids in restoring many items instead of replacing. This drastically cuts down on cleaning time, and returns valued possessions to homeowners quickly. All restorables will be cleaned to pre-damage conditions. 

Deodorization: SERVPRO provides specialized services to rid your home of any odor following a fire. Our highly trained techs will seek out the source of the odor and eliminate them. There are many different methods that may be used to remediate an odor following a fire. 

Call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County to make your fire damage "Like it never even happened." 402-408-0134

Cleaning and Disinfecting for COVID in Omaha, NE

8/31/2020 (Permalink)

Why is it essential to clean and disinfect? 

According to the CDC, cleaning is the physical removal of germs, dirt, and impurities from surfaces of objects by using soap and water. This process does not kill germs, but by removing them, it lowers their numbers and the risk of spreading infection. 

Disinfecting kills germs on surfaces or objects. Disinfecting works by using chemicals to kill germs on surfaces or objects. This process does not necessarily clean dirty surfaces or remove germs, but by killing germs on a surface after cleaning, it can further lower the risk of spreading infection. Clean surfaces and objects using soap and water prior to disinfection.

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County follows a three step process for confirmed COVID cleaning. First, we clean all surfaces 7' and down. Second, we use a our EPA registered disinfectant to mist throughout the entire cleaning area. We use a ULV fogger to apply our disinfectant. The fogger gives the solution an electrostatic charge, allowing it to wrap conductive surfaces with an effective and even coverage. Last, our crew will do a final wipe down, and ensure no residue is left behind. SERVPRO tailors the cleaning scope to match the needs at hand. Each job can vary, depending on if it's a confirmed case or preventative cleaning, and the space that needs cleaned and disinfected.

Call the cleaning specialists at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County for all your cleaning needs. 402-408-0134

Commercial Restoration Services in Omaha, NE

8/21/2020 (Permalink)

A green semi trailer with a large green machine and generator sitting on it parked in front of a hotel. This is SERVPRO's trailer mounted desiccant that helps to dry out large spaces quickly and efficiently.

Water damage in a commercial space is never a fun thing to deal with. Restoration professionals understand how crucial it is to act immediately when there is an emergency such as a pipe break or water in your business from plumbing failure. Recognizing that a flooded business causes a devastating setback to businesses, they do whatever it takes to get things back to normal as soon as possible.

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/ Saunders County has the right equipment for large commercial water damages. Our trailer mounted desiccant can remove 500+ gallons of water from a commercial space in 24 hours. This machine acts as a large dehumidifier drying out large spaces quickly. This helps to speed up the drying process, and saves you time and money when it matters most. 

No matter the size of the commercial water loss, SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/ Saunders County can handle it. Once on site, our highly trained professionals will do an initial assessment to assess the damage and form a scope of work to dry out the property. They have high tech equipment that shows moisture, and the path it has taken. 

SERVPRO will restore your property to pre-damage conditions. It is essential to call right away, to prevent further damage from water. 

Call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/ Saunders County to make your commercial water loss, "Like it never even happened."

402-408-0134

The Water Damage Restoration Process

8/14/2020 (Permalink)

A white couch in a house, with water throughout the living room. Image says water damage and SERVPRO. When water invades your property, timing is everything. Call the professionals at SERVPRO today.

Do you know the right steps to take when you have a water damage? Timing is essential when it comes to water. When your home or business suffers a water loss, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/ Saunders County. Our crew is WRT (Water Restoration Technichian) Certified. We have the expertise and state-of-the-art drying equipment to properly restore your property after a loss. 

Water Damage in Omaha, NE?

Call Today- (402)408-0134

Even though there are no two water damages the same, the general process is the same.

Step One- Contact SERVPRO for Emergency Services

The restoration process begins when you call us. Our crew will take vital information to help us get the right equipment to you right away. Timing is vital to stop further damage from water. 

Step Two- Inspection

We assess the damage and form a scope of work to be done. Our crews use thermal cameras and meters to measure moisture. This helps us to determine how far the water has traveled, and to do a proper and complete dry out. Even though your carpet and walls may appear and feel dry, water can be underneath flooring or behind the wall. Our equipment helps to find all moisture.

Step Three- Water Extraction

Extracting and removing the water is vital. We have different methods of extraction, depending on the amount of water. This step is essential to help prevent any mold growth. 

Step Four- Drying 

We have specialized equipment to dry out your property. The techs are highly trained to use the right equipment and the right amount to dry out your property quickly and efficiently. 

Step Five- Clean and Sanitize

Our techs will clean and sanitize to restore your property to pre-damage conditions. We have specialized equipment to clean anything from carpets to contents. 

If you suffer from a water damage, call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County to make it "Like it never even happened."

402.408.0134

Be Prepared for Whatever Happens

8/13/2020 (Permalink)

Green SERVPRO vehicles and technichians with a cell phone that says Ready on it. SERVPRO's ERP program is also available on your mobile device.

Are you prepared for a disaster? The best time to prepare for a disaster is before a disaster hits. Did you know that 50% of businesses do not recover from disaster.

Emergency Ready Profile, or ERP, is a free service provided by SERVPRO in which we help area businesses with such things as locating their emergency shut offs for their electrical systems, water, and gas.  We also compile information on their key contacts in the event of any emergency so the business is prepared and can calmly work through the situation. The ERP also has a mobile app. Help is literally at your fingertips. 

The ERP also contains tips and suggestions that the business can do before help arrives and provides somewhat of a road map helping them get back into their business more quickly and ultimately minimizing the interruption. 

A few months ago we had the opportunity to truly see the power of the plan in action.  A local business suffered a frozen pipe on the third story of their building reaching numerous rooms within the facility.  With this plan, the building contact knew exactly who to call and within 45 minutes, our team was on site helping them to restore function to nearly 50% of the rooms affected by the end of the first day.  They were able to recover a large amount of potential lost income by simply having a plan in place and knowing what to do prior to help arriving. 

The best part of the ERP process is the amount of work the business owner or manager must do to get this set up is minimal.  A sales and marketing representative will come to your business and take the necessary photos and information, then finish putting the document together at the office.  This process usually only takes 30 minutes or less and the business owner can proof and edit the document as often as they would like.  When approved, the business will receive both a hard copy and a digital copy through our ERP app. 

When disaster strikes, you can either be ruined or ready. For more questions or to set up an Emergency Ready Profile for your business, call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest at 402-408-0134. 

Are you in need of Fire Damage Repair in Omaha, NE?

8/13/2020 (Permalink)

Flames from kitchen cabinets with two firefighters spraying water on it. SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest is here to help with your fire damage restoration needs.

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County understands the feeling of stress that comes with experiencing a fire in your Omaha home. Our highly trained team is Here to Help you from start to finish. Whether it is cleaning your home or taking care of your belongings, you can trust us to help make your fire damage "Like it never even happened."

Our team is ready 24/7/365 to quickly respond and start assessing the damages left behind after a fire. After a fire, you'll likely experience fire, smoke, and soot damage, as well as water damage. Once the initial walk through has been completed, our SERVPRO team will begin to save and restore all that can be saved. 

Our SERVPRO team is always here and ready to help!

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/ Saunders County 402-408-0134. 

Faster to Any Size Disaster

8/13/2020 (Permalink)

Three green SERVPRO vans Disasters don't wait for regular business hours, and neither do we. SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County are available 24/7/365.

Disasters don't wait for regular business hours, and neither do we. SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County are available 24/7/365 to assist with any size disaster. Our team takes pride in always being on standby and ready to respond. Our green team can properly handle ANY size water, fire, mold, or bio. All of our techs are WRT (Water Restoration Technician) certified. 

Faster to Any Size Emergency

In many water restoration situations, immediate action is needed. Time is essential when dealing with water damage. With over 1,800 Franchise locations, SERVPRO is faster to any size disaster. An immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Water is particularly invasive. It can quickly spread throughout your home or business. SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately.

We are Faster to Any Size Disaster and ready to respond 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. 

If you are in need of emergency restoration services, call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County! 402.408.0134

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned – a defensive cleaning program

5/15/2020 (Permalink)

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

Let us help you get back to business

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

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

Extensive training and specialized products

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

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

3 C’s – Consult, Clean, and Certify

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

  • Consult – Every business is different, which is why you’ll be assigned a Cleaning Protocol Consultant who understands your business and will create a cleaning program to meet your specific needs. This program will be developed based on your business type, size of space, amount of high frequency touch points, 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 Omaha Southwest & SERVPRO of Omaha West/Saunders County today at 402.408.0134 for your Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation.

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

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

SERVPRO is here to help.

3/18/2020 (Permalink)

Here to Help SERVPRO is here to help in this time of need.

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 Omaha Southwest & SERVPRO of Omaha West/Saunders County. 402.408.0134

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

No Fear, SERVPRO is Here

3/9/2020 (Permalink)

a guy holding a bottle of cleaning solution The CDC recomments proactive cleaning and disinfecting to minimize the transmission of emerging viral pathogens.

Did you know that is possible to get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes? The virus that causes COVID-19 seems to be spreading easily and sustainably in the community in some affected areas, according to the CDC.

Don't panic! First, wash your hands. Washing your hands often with soap and water is one of the best defenses against catching this virus. The CDC recommends to clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
Cleaning:removing germs, dirt, and impurities from surfaces or objects.
Disinfecting: killing germs on surfaces or objects.
If the surface or object is dirty, it is important to clean first.
Surfaces to consider cleaning and disinfecting:
-tables, desks, chairs
-countertops and sinks
-cabinets and pulls
-door knobs and light switches
-remote controls
-paper towel dispensers and soap dispensers
-telephones and computer equipment
-floors and carpets
-shared office equipment
-book covers binders
-toilets, bathroom stalls, and water fountains

How Can SERVPRO Help?
Proactive cleaning and disinfecting is recommended to minimize the transmission of emerging viral pathogens. The CDC recommends usage of a labeled Hospital Grade disinfectant with claims against similar viruses. SERVPRO offers a product that meets the CDC requirements for cleaning similar viruses and pathogens. Call the trusted professionals at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest and Omaha West/Saunders County today at 402.408.0134. We are here to help 24/7.
cdc.gov/coronavirus

Large Water Loss in Omaha, NE? No problem.

2/28/2020 (Permalink)

Trailer Mounted Desiccant SERVPRO's trailer mounted desiccant is at it again.

The temperatures dropped drastically in Omaha, NE causing havoc for multiple home and business owners. This commercial space in Omaha, NE had a large water loss caused by a frozen pipe. The building was saturated from the top floor to the basement, and was full of contents. Our 5000 CFM trailer mounted desiccant will cut down drying time significantly. This will save everyone time and money when it matters most. This desiccant is capable of drying 50,000 sqft+ spaces. This machine can remove 500 gallons of water in a 24 hour period. With SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & SERVPRO of Omaha West/Saunders County's state-of the-art equipment and highly trained professionals, we can make this large water damage "Like it never even happened." Call SERVPRO today at 402.408.0134. 

What's Lurking In Your Ducts In Your Omaha,NE Home or Business?

1/22/2020 (Permalink)

Dirty air duct and clean air duct, showing a before and after of duct cleaning. Air ducts in our homes and businesses can hold many contaminates. SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County can help!

Think of your air ducts as your home or business's lungs. They take in the air around you and circulate it back. If they are dirty, we breathe in all the contaminates. This can cause serious health problems, especially for those with allergies and breathing issues. 

Did you know that SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest and Omaha West/Saunders County offers residential and commercial duct cleaning? You can sweep away years of dust and dirt to help reduce the potential for damage and health concerns. By inspecting your HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) system, it can potentially extend the life of your equipment, which saves you money. Besides necessary routine cleanings, it can be part of the clean-up process after a fire, smoke, or mold growth issue.

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/ Saunders County has invested in a state-of-the-art duct cleaning system. Call your trusted trained professional today at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County to make your dirty ducts "Like it never even happened." 402.408.0134. 

Leaky or Frozen Pipe Causing Problems in Omaha, NE?

1/16/2020 (Permalink)

A frozen pipe with icicles hanging down Water damage can cause serious damage to your home or business. Call SERVPRO, we are here to help 24/7.

Leaky or Frozen Pipe Causing Problems in Your Omaha, NE Home or Business?

The greater Omaha area’s forecast is low temperatures in single digits for the next several days. Winter can be a difficult time for pipes in any home or business, especially during the extreme cold temperatures. If you are going away, never leave your thermostat below 55 degrees Fahrenheit. It is crucial to respond immediately to any frozen or leaky pipe concern. Did you know, even an 1/8” hole in a pipe can leave your house flooded with gallons of water?

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County are your IICRC certified water damage technicians. Water damage doesn’t wait for regular business hours, and neither do we. Our highly trained technicians are ready 24/7 including all holidays, to return your home or business to preloss conditions.

How SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County Can Help

The first thing you should do If you suspect a frozen pipe is turn off the water at your main water valve. Water needs to be removed quickly to prevent further damage. Our technicians can measure moisture behind visible surfaces, for example studs, drywall, and insulation. Your floors and walls may visibly appear dry, but water may be trapped behind. Contact your trusted IICRC frozen pipe water damage repair specialists at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County. Even minor flooding can cause serious damage if not handled properly. SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County has the state-of-the-art equipment, along with our highly trained professionals to help dry out and restore any water damage, big or small. Our green team is faster to any size disaster! Let our team make your water damage “Like it never even happened.” Call 402-408-0134 for cleanup and restoration services 24/7!

Mold is Everywhere

10/29/2019 (Permalink)

mold spores in green brown and grey colors Mold can spread! Let SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest stop it!

Mold can spread rapidly after water damage, and cause many problems. Check out this interesting website regarding mold:

https://www.truthaboutmold.info/statistics

Some Facts About Mold: 

Mold is everywhere – in the air and on many surfaces. Molds have been on the Earth for millions of years. Mold grows where there is moisture. Exposure to damp and moldy environments may cause a variety of health effects, or none at all. Some people are sensitive to molds. For these people, molds can cause nasal stuffiness, throat irritation, coughing or wheezing, eye irritation, or, in some cases, skin irritation. People with mold allergies may have more severe reactions. Immune-compromised people and people with chronic lung illnesses, such as obstructive lung disease, may get serious infections in their lungs when they are exposed to mold. These people should stay away from areas that are likely to have mold, such as compost piles, cut grass, and wooded areas.

Mold is found both indoors and outdoors. Mold can enter your home through open doorways, windows, vents, and heating and air conditioning systems. Mold in the air outside can also attach itself to clothing, shoes, bags, and pets can and be carried indoors.

Mold will grow in places with a lot of moisture, such as around leaks in roofs, windows, or pipes, or where there has been flooding. Mold grows well on paper products, cardboard, ceiling tiles, and wood products. Mold can also grow in dust, paints, wallpaper, insulation, drywall, carpet, fabric, and upholstery.

MOLD PREVENTION TIPS

  • Keep humidity levels as low as you can—no higher than 50%–all day long. An air conditioner or dehumidifier will help you keep the level low. Bear in mind that humidity levels change over the course of a day with changes in the moisture in the air and the air temperature, so you will need to check the humidity levels more than once a day.
  • Be sure your home has enough ventilation. Use exhaust fans which vent outside your home in the kitchen and bathroom. Make sure your clothes dryer vents outside your home.
  • Fix any leaks in your home’s roof, walls, or plumbing so mold does not have moisture to grow.
  • Clean up and dry out your home thoroughly and quickly (within 24–48 hours) after flooding.
  • Add mold inhibitors to paints before painting.
  • Clean bathrooms with mold-killing products.
  • Remove or replace carpets and upholstery that have been soaked and cannot be dried promptly. Consider not using carpet in rooms or areas like bathrooms or basements that may have a lot of moisture.

If you have a mold problem or would like to prevent mold after you have experienced water damage, SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest can help with both! Call us today 402-408-0134

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest Offers a NO COST Emergency Ready Profile (ERP)

10/3/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Emergency Readiness Profile, Are You Ready? 50% of business will never reopen after a disaster Contact SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest today to set up your ERP!

What is an Emergency Readiness Profile?

Did you know that 50% of businesses will not reopen after a disaster? And 75% of those that did reopen had some type of preparedness plan in place? An Emergency Readiness Profile is essential to your commercial property.

SERVPRO’s Emergency Ready Profile is not a contingency plan but is a vital component of any existing plan. Most full contingency plans are made up of three main parts: incident response, disaster recovery and business continuity. The SERVPRO ERP addresses incident response and disaster recovery. Think about the potential disasters that could affect your facility. Now ask yourself this question: Are You Ready?

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest, at no cost, will prepare an Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) to help us become more familiar with your property and therefore, can respond faster, mitigating secondary damage. This also gives owners/managers a snapshot of your building for an immediate plan of action. This way you know in advance what to do, who to call and what to expect, saving you time and money. SERVPRO has also developed an app that organizes information for you to have at your fingertips. So when you’re away from your business and receive a call saying that your commercial property has flooded, you can, at the touch of a finger, pull up information as to where to shut-off the gas or water.

If you’re a commercial property owner/manager interested in having an ERP in place, give SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest a call, ask for one of our marketers. 402-408-0134 

Commercial Properties

10/3/2019 (Permalink)

Orange letters saying "We can Handle the big stuff" Call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest today, 402-408-0134

What Is a “Commercial Property?”

Commercial properties may refer to:

  • retail buildings
  • office buildings
  • warehouses
  • industrial buildings
  • apartment buildings
  • “mixed use” buildings, where the property may have a mix, such as retail, office and apartments.

There are nuances to managing each of these types of properties. Properties intended for commercial use have more public visitors and therefore have more people on the property each day that can get hurt or do something to damage your property. Commercial properties also face numerous risks that could potentially cause financial devastation for the property owner or the tenants. From weather-related property damage to criminal activities, the list of things that could go wrong may seem endless. While it is impossible to fully protect all your properties from damage and financial loss, there are ways to help protect your business and it starts with liability insurance! While business liability insurance covers the people and products of a business, commercial liability covers the actual physical location. This will cover any damages to your property from accidents, weather-related incidents, and vandalism. This is just as important as any other kind of insurance, as it will allow you to return to business in a more timely manner. Commercial and business liability insurance policies are often lumped together. SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest accepts ALL insurance providers! We will not let you down. 

Categories and Classes of Water Damage...Knowledge is Power

10/2/2019 (Permalink)

room full of water, white couch covered in water, large orange letter saying WATER DAMAGE, SERVPRO logo at the bottom Call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest today if your property has been damaged by water 402-408-0134

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest is known for water restoration. Here is how we asses your water damaged property. First, we determine what category of water your property has:

Category 1: Refers to clean water, or water that does not pose a threat to humans. Possible causes of this type of damage include broken appliances or sink overflows.

Category 2: Water is also called gray water. This means that the water is contaminated and may cause sickness of ingested. This type of water contains microorganisms. Broken toilets, broken sump pumps, and seepage may cause category 2 water damage.

Category 3: Water is known as black water. This type of water is unsanitary, as it contains bacteria and other organisms that cause sickness. The possible sources of black water damage include sewage problems and contamination of standing water.

There are also several classes of water damage. The class of damage is important when assessing water damage repair options.

Class 1 is the least harmful form of damage. Materials absorb very little of the water from this type of damage. Water damage repair is the easiest in this type of situation.

Class 2 has a fast rate of evaporation, which means that carpets and cushions may be damaged. Water damage repair is more difficult when it involves class 2 damage.

Class 3 has the fastest rate of evaporation. In this case, the water may come from broken sprinklers or other overhead sources, soaking the walls and furniture. Class 4 requires special water restoration and water removal procedures. This type of damage may affect hardwood floors, plaster, and concrete.

Assessing the severity of the damage is important for determining what is needed to start water damage repair and water removal. 

The Fire Damage Process

10/2/2019 (Permalink)

We fix fire damage, SERVPRO logo, and fire in background Fire Damage can be scary, Let SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest help!

Check out this awesome website from the U.S. Fire Administration:  https://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/outreach/winter.html it has some statistics regarding fires in the home. 

When various materials burn, the soot and residue they create differs greatly and requires a specific cleaning procedure. SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest specializes in fire restoration and will restore your home or business to pre-fire condition.

The steps listed below illustrate our process for the “usual” fire damage emergency:

Step 1: Emergency Contact

The restoration process begins when you call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest. You will be asked questions regarding the fire damage event that will help us respond immediately with the appropriate equipment and resources. 

Step 2: Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment

Our highly trained team will carefully inspect and test adjoining rooms of your property to determine the extent of the fire, smoke, and soot damage. This step is crucial to developing a plan of action. 

Step 3: Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service

Fire damage can often compromise windows, walls, and roofs. To maintain security and to protect against further damage, we can board up missing windows and walls and place tarps on damaged roofs. 

Step 4: Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)

The water removal process begins almost immediately and removes the majority of the water. We then use dehumidifiers and air movers to remove the remaining water and complete the drying process. 

Step 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces

We use specialized equipment and techniques to remove smoke and soot from ceilings, walls, and other surfaces. 

Step 6: Cleaning and Sanitizing

We clean, sanitize, and disinfect all of the restorable items and structures that were damaged by the fire. We use a variety of cleaning techniques to restore your belongings to pre-fire condition. We’re also trained to remove odors using industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment.

Step 7: Restoration

Restoration is the final step—getting your home or business to its pre-fire condition. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet; or it may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.

Fire damage can be devastating for you and your family or your business. Feelings of confusion and stress are common, and you need a caring expert to guide you through this crisis. We will always treat your family with the greatest empathy and respect, and we’ll treat your property with great care.

After any fire damage occurs, above all your safety is the most important thing to consider. Let SERVPRO help with your fire damage needs today, 24/7 including holidays 402-408-0134.

Get the mold outta here after water damage

10/1/2019 (Permalink)

a teal wall covered in mold spores coming from behind a white trim Mold Can Spread Quickly! Let SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest Help!

THE AFTERMATH OF WATER DAMAGE

After your home experiences water damage you are at risk of mold infecting your home! Whether the water damage is the result of a storm surge or a leaky faucet, when water is trapped behind walls or paneling, the elements needed for mold growth will most likely be present. It is best to take action at this time to mitigate the damage and prevent mold growth from occurring. If there is moisture still present--under ideal conditions (optimal temperature and level of humidity), it takes 24 to 48 hours for mold to germinate and grow. Typically, the spores begin to colonize in 3 to 12 days and become visible in about 18-21 days.

How to Prevent Mold Growth After Water Damage:

It is best to take action at this time to mitigate the damage and prevent mold growth from occurring.  

Dry areas immediately. Try to clean and dry areas subjected to water within 48 hours to help prevent mold growth.

Be aware or warning signs. After cleaning and drying, continue to be sensitive to musty odors in the affected area.

Take look outside. Check the exterior of homes and buildings regularly for accumulating ground water. When the ground is saturated mold can begin to form outside and find its way inside. If water is accumulating against your foundation, take measures to drain the water away from your building. Keeping things dry is the key to preventing mold growth.

Remove damaged materials. If materials are wet and can’t be cleaned or completely dried, remove them from the building and replace them with new materials which may be more mold resistant. Fiber glass doesn’t have the food needed for mold growth but often when insulation gets wet, the water which intruded into the cavity was dirty and brought food along with it. If you have wet insulation, replace it with new mold resistant materials. 

That is why it is important to call on professionals like SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest to make sure your water damaged property is properly taken care of to prevent mold growth from occurring. Call our team today at 402-408-0134!

Why SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest?

9/27/2019 (Permalink)

green pictures has white letter thats say "We are faster to any disaster" above a orange SERVPRO sign We go anywhere we are called!

Why SERVPRO?

Whatever your situation may be: 

Restoration:

  • Fire, smoke, & soot
  • Water removal & dehumidification 
  • Mold mitigation & remediation 
  • Move outs & content restoration
  • Electronic Equipment

Cleaning:

  • Air Ducts & HVAC
  • Crime scene & vandalism 
  • Carpet & upholstery
  • Drapes & blinds
  • Ceilings & walls
  • Artwork & books
  • Deodorization

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest is trained to tackle any disaster or any cleanup! We understand your situation and know how stressful it can be. Restoring your property is SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest's first priority. Our team is very responsive and strive to let our customers know we will do everything possible to limit any further damage. Our team can provide an itemized loss inventory as well. You will receive an Excel formatted report and pictures of important items so those important items are accounted for. We also communicate from start to finish to set your mind at ease. 

Call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest today, 24/7, including holidays at 402-408-0134! We will make it "Like it never even happened." 

Calm Before the Storm..Don't Let Common Winter Claims Claim You

9/27/2019 (Permalink)

Storms Don't Wait Why Should You?

Hidden behind that gorgeous blanket of snow are harsh winter storms waiting to do serious damage to your home. The winter storm season creates the most common and costly claims for property owners. Nearly all insurance claims come from wintery wind, hail, and storm-related water damage. 

Preparing for winter incidents and cold weather claims begins with prevention methods and thorough insurance protection. Let’s take a look at the most common causes of claims in winter weather and what you can do to protect yourself from these costly concerns.

Common Winter Claims

1. Wind damage

The most common homeowners claim filed is due to wind damage. Nearly one in 35 insured homes have a property damage claim related to wind or hail each year, according to the insurance information institute. Wind is more intense during the winter months and thus creates a majority of these costly claims.

Prepare for wind damage:

  • Remove and store all unsecured outdoor items like umbrellas, furniture, and play items.
  • Inspect your home for loose gutters, shutters, and shingles.
  • Trim dead or weak tree branches around the house. Tree collapse is the third most costly winter weather claim.
  • Be aware of nearby power lines. Trim trees around power lines. Ensure power lines near your property are secure. If not, call the phone or cable company for further fastening.

Wind damage is not always covered by your homeowners’ insurance. In fact, wind and flood are often exclusions on many homeowners’ policies. In this way, you’ll want to talk to your insurance agent before the winter season hits in order to ensure you are fully protected from any costs associated with wind damage. 

2. Hail

Hail can do serious damage to your roof, siding, and porch.

You can’t prevent hail, but you can prepare for it:

  • Inspect your roof and siding every autumn. Repair loose or missing tiles.
  • If you live in an area where hail is common, you can consider installing hail-resistant asphalt shingles. This precaution could even help lower your insurance premium.

Like wind, some homeowners’ policies have hail exclusion. Check with your insurance agent to make sure you’re covered. Discuss the different sorts of claims process and coverage lines with regards to hail. 

3. Frozen pipes

If your pipes get too cold, the water inside them will freeze. This ice can expand and burst the pipes, leading to water loss and water damage in your home. Freezing pipes accounts for 18% of all water damage claims. Damages from frozen pipes can include flooding, ceiling collapse, damaged floors and walls, mold, and more. 

Interestingly, insurance companies often consider frozen pipes a “preventable problem.” They may say that your negligence caused the damage. This means that you could be stuck with a $10,000 water damage bill without your insurance company stepping in.

Thus, it’s crucial to protect your home against frozen pipe damage:

  • Drain and disconnect all hoses.
  • Drain the sprinkler supply lines.
  • Keep your home warm at a minimum of 65 degrees.
  • Insulate pipes in unheated spaces, like basements, garages, and attics. You can use pipe sleeves or heat tape.
  • Leave garage doors closed.
  • If you have a swimming pool, run the pump during nights where temperatures are expected to go below freezing.
  • When it’s especially cold outside, let cool water drip from your faucets. This will keep your water flowing, so they have less chance of freezing in the pipes. 
  • Know where your water is shut off. If your pipes do burst, the first step is to turn off the water to reduce any further damage.

4. Snow and ice damage

Snow and ice looks pretty, but it can be so heavy that it can severely damage your house. The average claim for snow and ice damage to the home is around $4,700. Snow heavier than 1-2 feet or 4 inches of ice can crush your roof or cause falling tree branches. Water can freeze in and clog your gutters, creating “ice dams” that prevent proper runoff. This can cause a water buildup that can seep into your roof and ceiling.

  • Prevent ice dams. Seal any gaps that allow warm air to leak into the attic. Keep your attic ventilated. Insulate your home’s heating system so it doesn’t escape through the ceiling.
  • Get a roof rake to help get rid of heavy snow after major storms.
  • Inspect your roof before the season for any weak areas that need repair.
  • Trim all trees near the house, and get rid of weak or dead branches.

5. Slips and falls

Moreover, snow and ice can cause liability concerns on your property. An icy walkway or driveway could cause slips and falls, for which you will be liable. Even if the person injured on your property wasn’t invited, they could still sue you if they were injured after an icy slip on your property. This same liability applies if they are hit by a falling icicle, dead tree branch, and other winter concerns.

  • Always shovel your driveway and walkway after a storm.
  • Apply commercial-grade salt to help melt the ice faster. 
  • Ensure you are fully covered 

6. Fire

Fires are also more common in the winter months due to the dry air and increase of fireplace use. The national average for fire and smoke damage is $9,815 but can be up to $30,000. Avoid costly fire claims with just a few precautions:

  • Check that all fireplaces, stoves, and heaters are working properly.
  • Keep no combustible items near heat sources.
  • Get your chimney cleaned.
  • Close the fireplace flue when not in use.

Be prepared. Take advantage of the calm before the storm and don't let common winter claims claim you! SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest will work with your insurance agent and make sure your home is taken care of after a storm. Let us take the stress off your shoulders. Call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest today 24/7, including holidays 402-408-0134.

Fall Into Winter With SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest

9/26/2019 (Permalink)

omaha streets covered in snow, green traffic lights in the distance , trees to the left of the street, american flags right Be Prepared This Winter

Fall will soon turn into winter here in the Omaha area, which means expectant winter weather conditions including snow accumulation, freezing rain, and sleet. Follow this checklist to prepare your home for the winter season: 

Winter Weather Checklist for Your Home:

  1. Put weather strips on doors & windows to prevent heat from escaping.

  2. Insulate water lines that run along outer walls of home - to prevent frozen pipes.

  3. Chimney & flue inspection.

  4. Purchase a fire extinguisher.

  5. Check roof for any possible leaks - repair them if necessary.

  6. Purchase salt & sand for the entryway of your home.

  7. Purchase bottled water, batteries, a first-aid kit, and canned food in case of an emergency.

  8. Keep your home temperature above freezing (even if you are not home) - to prevent frozen pipes.

  9. Make sure to keep space heaters at least 3 feet away from any flammable items & always turn them off before leaving the house or going to sleep.

  10. Help others - check to see that your elderly neighbors are prepared for winter weather as well!

Power Outage Safety Checklist:

  1. Have a flashlight in your home.

  2. Leave water taps slightly open to drip continuously.

  3. Conserve heat by keeping doors and windows closed unless absolutely necessary to open them.

  4. Dress warm & stay dry.

As temperatures drop SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest wants to remind everyone to be prepared for any size disaster. Pipes can burst when temperatures drop. To prevent your home from further damage call for 24/7 Emergency Service call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest today at 402-408-0134! We are here to help!

Winter Storms Can Cause Extensive Damage

9/26/2019 (Permalink)

heavy snow caused trees to break into the street and damage cars Record Breaking Snow Storm Hits Omaha in 1997, Will it Happen in 2019?

Check out this years Farmer's Almanac! We have a very white, cold, winter ahead of us!

Winter storms can unleash an array of hazardous weather, causing destruction that sometimes amounts to billions of dollars in damage.

Some of the destructive impacts we can see in a given winter storm include: 

  • Ice: The weight of freezing rain on trees and power lines can have a crippling impact. Damage can begin with a quarter inch of accumulation. There can be widespread destruction with power outages lasting for days with thick accumulations of a half inch or more.
  • Wet Snow: Snow sticks easily to trees and power lines when it's moisture-laden. Much like ice accumulation, this adds extra weight and stress, increasing the chance of damage. This is particularly a threat in fall and early spring storms.
  • Snow on Roofs: Accumulations of several feet from one or multiple storms can add stress to roofs, causing them to collapse.
  • Coastal Flooding: On the East Coast, strong winds blowing onshore in combination with high tides can inundate the coastline, causing damage to structures and significant beach erosion.
  • High Winds: When strong winds accompany accumulations of snow and ice it can add stress and enhance the potential for tree damage and power outages. Strong winds from winter storms can also trigger power outages and cause tree damage even in areas where there is no significant snow or ice.
  • Flooding After the Snow: A sharp warm-up or heavy rain following a winter storm with an expansive snowpack can set the stage for major flooding.

HOW DO YOU PROTECT YOUR OMAHA HOME FROM WINTER STORM DAMAGE?

Protect the outside of your house by checking downspouts and making sure water will be diverted away from your house. Trim any low-hanging tree branches that can freeze, become brittle, snap and damage your house or power lines. Use weatherstripping or caulk to seal drafty windows and doors. Disconnect garden hoses.

Commercial Water Damage Problems

9/25/2019 (Permalink)

downtown Omaha, large skyscraper buildings in the distance with highway Protect your commercial building from water damage, Call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest today!

As an Omaha commercial property owner, it is not a matter of IF it is a matter of WHEN. You may be forced to contend with common water issues such as a broken pipe or flooding. For this reason, it is important that you understand what to expect and, more importantly, how to deal with water-related headaches. Below are just four of the most common causes of water troubles that building owners have to deal with:

  • Broken pipes
  • Fire sprinklers
  • Toilet overflow
  • Supply line breaks

If you are faced with any of the above issues, there are steps you should take to minimize damage and repair costs.

BROKEN PIPES:

Broken pipes are par for the course of commercial property ownership and usually stem from old age or freezing temperatures. When faced with a broken pipe, you should shut off the water supply, locate the source of damage and make the necessary repair. If the damage is too great, you may have to contact your local plumber.

FIRE SPRINKLERS:

If your building catches fire, the fire sprinkler system should activate. After the fire department clears call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest's fire and water remediation team to help clean up the damage and restore your building.

TOILET OVERFLOW: 


Toilet overflow is another common issue in which many business owners are forced to deal. Because you never know what toilet water contains or what causes an overflow, you should not attempt to deal with the mess yourself. Block off the area and contact a plumber and water repair company right away.

SUPPLY LINE BREAKS:

Like broken pipes, supply line breaks can happen because of old age or because of adverse weather conditions. When a supply line bursts, shut off the main water valve right away to prevent further damage and contact both a plumber and a local water remediation team as soon as possible.

As a commercial building owner, you are bound to run into water-related issues. Whether the issue stems from a broken pipe or a sewage backup, the best thing you can do to minimize damage and keep costs low is contact SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest today at 402-408-0134

Bathroom Appliances Can Lead to Fire Damage!

9/24/2019 (Permalink)

various hair appliances; metal curling iron, two hair straightners, and black blow dryer Make sure your bathroom appliances are unplugged between uses to prevent risk of fire damage.

Bathrooms should have specialized outlets that trip a tiny built-in breaker should a shock hazard develop. These protect people if an appliance should ever get wet by either water splashed on it or through accidental submersion in a sink or tub. Problems can still happen if someone uses one of these electrical items later because water can corrode internal components and cause them to get too hot.

Using curling irons or hair dryers with corroded contacts can put your Omaha home in danger, melting plastic can ignite and help spread and strengthen any flames, helping the fire get around the room. Shower curtains can become a path to the ceiling, leaving dense layers of blackened soot. Residents with this kind of damage need professionals like the ones at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest to get such disasters mitigated, and the area restored "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest has extensively learned how to clean up such areas. Mitigation includes discerning between truly damaged materials that require removal and replacements and those that we can revitalize, saving our customers as much as possible while restoring their property to a safe, livable condition again.

We use several different tools to clean surfaces after fire damage compromises their appearance. Dry sponges that pull soot off mirrors and fixtures protect them from the fine lines that ruin the sheen and make achieving a shiny appearance impossible. Waiting to remove soot can leave property owners wanting to replace such items, resulting in lost rental deposits or additional costs related to court-awarded damages. SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest wants to help you recover completely from the consequences of fire damage and with as little stress as possible.

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest's goal is to provide all our customers with a thorough job, from start to finish, including odor control. Our team knows how to do the work efficiently, letting you put the fire damage behind you so you can get back to your normal activities. Contact SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest today at 402-408-0134

More Flooding May be Coming 9/20/2019! Here Are Some Ways to Be Prepared and Prevent Water Damage.

9/23/2019 (Permalink)

flood waters in distance, road block with Flood Waters Signs and road closed to through traffic sign posted Flood Warning, Be Prepared!

Check out This article from KNBN NewsCenter1:

https://www.newscenter1.tv/third-round-of-flooding-in-2019-likely-along-missouri-river/?fbclid=IwAR2U-XJh8L1_lNXRPKDIwFTngBtDBXvEIi0fDXhC_1n7UxEiAq2YjzyQv00

Federal Officials and The US Army of Engineers are saying Omaha may be hit with more flooding and parts of Interstate 29 and 680 could be under water again! Be prepared and safe this weekend!

What should you put in your emergency kit? 

1. A waterproof bag containing important documents like birth certificates, passports, ID and insurance documents.

2. Portable, battery operated AM/FM radio

3. Waterproof flashlight

4. New, spare batteries

5. First aid kit

6. Medications, toiletries and sanitary supplies

7. Special requirements for infants, elderly, injured, disabled people, and pets

8. Mobile phone and charger

9. Cash and bank cards

10. Emergency contact numbers

11. Spare house and car keys

12. Combination pocket knife (Swiss army knife)

13. Drinking water

14. Canned food

15. A can opener, cooking gear and eating utensils

16. Portable gas stove

17. Water container for storing, washing, and cooking water. 

Once you have your emergency kit prepared, try and prepare your property.

1. Secure hazardous items, Roll up rugs, move furniture, electrical items and valuables to a higher level to prevent further water damage.

2. Turn off gas, electricity, and water

3. Put fuel in your vehicles

4. Place sand bags around your home

5. Evacuate when advised to do so

If your property sustains water damage call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest today at 402-408-0134. We are here to help!

Sewage Backup from Stormy Weather

9/22/2019 (Permalink)

It is no secret that the Midwest has recently been covered in water from flooding. These heavy storms including rainwater and snow can create problems for businesses and homeowners, as sewage systems might be suddenly draining more water than they were initially designed to handle. Too much water being forced through a narrow opening can create the reverse effect of pushing water backwards causing a sewer backup. 

Three noticeable signs you are having back flow problems:

1. Multiple drains will experience the affects of a clog. A common blockage can occur when too much hair, debris or food particles have remained in a drain pipe, but to find several clogs at the same time in a big indicator of an issue.

2. Water will back flow out of other open drains. If water is gurgling and bubbling up from your kitchen drain after running the dishwasher, or you find black water filling your shower floor to the brim after flushing the toilet, you can be positive of a sewer backup. 

3. Flushing the toilet becomes difficult and you have unsuccessfully tried plunging, you have a bigger problem. Some bubbling in the toilet is normal, but if excessive amounts of bubbling occurs after flushing that is a sign of a problem.

Clogged drains and gurgling back flow in bathrooms and kitchens are the usual places to check but, make sure you check the basement or lower level rooms for standing water, being careful where electricity is present. 

It is extremely important that you call in the experts as soon as possible to keep your family safe and healthy. Sewage backups bring wastewater into the home, making unsanitary conditions for families and businesses. 

When it is especially stormy make sure to check all available drainage areas for backups. 

Let SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest Help Your Government Facility Today!

9/18/2019 (Permalink)

Did you know that Government facilities have to stay open even when they need to be cleaned or restored? 

Government facilities don't have to worry. When grime, odor, or moisture challenges go beyond the help of the regular janitorial staff, SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest will provide a prompt service in handling any issues. Also, Roof leaks, overflows, or pipe bursts can occur in any type of property, and government buildings are no exception. Water damage ranging from minor to major incidents can occur and affect not only the building but also the people exposed. Some types of water damage can be dangerous, and the more minor situations can even escalate if left untreated. 

When a building needs a deeper clean or disaster strikes a government facility, our team at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest is here to answer the call quickly in order to assess the damage and start mitigation procedures. We are quick to respond to help ensure minimum service interruption and lower recovery costs.

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest has restoration experience with every level of the government; State, County, Town, City, and District. Call us today (402)408-0134.

When to Stop, Drop, and Call SERVPRO

9/18/2019 (Permalink)

woman standing in front of a home after a fire has caused damage with both hands up holding her head. A fire can be devastating. SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest is here to help!

Fire damage to any home or business can be devastating. Knowing there is a way to make the fire look "like it never even happened" is reassuring. SERVPRO's Production Technicians are trained and equipped to handle an array of damage and are available 24/7.

The first 3 steps to follow after you have experiencing fire damage:

1. Evacuation 

In case there is someone still trapped in the building, because of soot and smoke damage, emergency services should be called such as the fire department to put out any fire remaining.

2. Calling the insurance company

After the fire has been completely put out the most challenging part of the fire restoration process begins. Make a call to your insurance company or agent and inform them of the incident that has just ensued.

3. Contacting your local SERVPRO

Fire damage experts recommend that you stay away from a building that has suffered from a fire until it has been certified safe to enter. Once contacted a project manager will head to your home or business to assess the damages and work with you and your insurance to get you back to pre loss conditions. SERVPRO will clean up the smoke smell and soot on all surfaces left after the fire leaving your building looking like the damage never even happened.

Restaurateurs, Home Owners, and Office Break Rooms with Dishwashers

9/17/2019 (Permalink)

A dishwasher located between cupboards shows leaking water in the form of a puddle on the tile floor. Are there puddles of water from a leaky dishwasher? Give SERVPRO a call to clean up the mess!

It is pretty common nowadays to clean your dishes using a dishwasher. Having a dishwasher in your business, home or office means there is a water line which can lead to potential water damage if leaking starts to occur. 

SERVPRO recommends all Omaha restaurateurs, home owners and offices take the following steps to take care of their dishwashers to reduce the risk of water damage.

Do Not Overfill

It is tempting to fill your dishwasher to the brim especially when there only a couple of dishes left in the sink. However, tell yourself and your staff not the crowd the rack, as an over filled dishwasher is much more likely to leak. It is better to do a couple of smaller loads rather than trying to fit everything into one big load.

Do Regular Maintenance on Doors

Dishwasher door hinges become loose, door latches become misaligned or door seals break, all of which can cause a leak. Sometime the problem can be solved with a tightening of a few screws and you can use an epoxy patch kit to remedy minor seal breaks. However, other times it is not possible to fix the door hinges, latches or seals on your own and that leads to buying a new dishwasher.

Check the Tub and Hose

The tub and hose can both develop faults over time. Consistent and constant use may corrode the tub and create a big hole, and aging hoses can become unstable or cease to fit properly.

Use the Correct Detergent

Always use a dish washing detergent and follow the manufacturer instructions. The incorrect dish washing detergent or too much of the correct dish washing detergent can cause suds and even a blockage. 

These leaks, if not dried fast or correctly, can lead to mold.

For help with water damage to your business or home give SERVPRO a call at (402) 408-0134 to help remedy the situation.

Mold 101

9/17/2019 (Permalink)

White hairy like mold fuzz with dark colored dotted ends. Where there is moisture there is mold. Don't wait when you find unwanted water to call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest!

Mold is a type of fungus that consists of small organisms found nearly everywhere. It can be black, white, orange, green or purple. Mold thrives on moisture and reproduce by means of tiny, lightweight spores that travel through the air. When mold is growing on a surface, spores can be released into the air where they can be easily inhaled.

The exact number of mold species is still unknown, scientists estimate that there are thousands. Many of them can affect your business and home.

Here are three of the most common kinds of mold and how they are identified.

1) Aspergillus

Aspergillus is frequently found wherever dust accumulates and spreads to areas like floors, wallpapers and air filters. It typically has a brown or dark green color and certain species are also found on food.

2) Stachybotrys 

Stachybotrys earned its nickname, black mold, through its distinctive greenish black and gel like appearance. It is frequently found where moisture dwells such as restrooms or on walls in rooms that have experienced flooding. 

3) Cladosporium

Cladosporium colonies can grow in bathrooms, basements and on any wooden surface. Typically, you can spot this type of mold by its green or brown color. This mold is possible to removed by yourself but calling qualified mold experts can assist in its disposal.

Do You Smell That?

9/17/2019 (Permalink)

A black and white image of microscopic airborne particles in circular and oval form. Call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest to neutralize any lingering odor your home or business may have!

If you have a lingering unidentifiable smell in your home or business SERVPRO can not only identify and locate that smell for you, we can also completely get rid of it. An odor can derive from smoke, pets, decomposition or mold. A simply surface clean will not do the trick to removing the smell. 

Our certified Production Technicians do not cover up lingering odors with fragrance; they seek out and remove the source of the smell. We use SERVPRO's own proprietary line of cleaning products and equipment to treat and prevent the odor from reoccurring. 

All restore-able contents in the affected areas will also be professionally cleaned and deodorized, including furniture, draperies, upholstery, art, electronics, flooring, walls, ceilings, air ducts and more. 

Not only does SERVPRO use its own line of cleaning products we also have various techniques and equipment to treat odors. Some of the tools we use include: 

Ozone Generator: one of the quickest ways to eliminate odors from a home or business. This machine oxidizes and removes odor from mold, mildew, pets, nicotine etc. without the use of chemicals.

Hydroxyl Generator: a downside of the Ozone Generator is the room or home being Ozoned cannot be occupied by any living breathing life. This generator also works slower but tackles odor in a safer way. Hydroxyl Generators can removed smell from fire and smoke, biohazard odors, water damage, and animals.

Air Filtration Device: also known as the Air Scrubber, it is used to remove airborne contaminants during water, fire, smoke, mold and sewage restoration work. They work by pulling the air through HEPA filtration to remove airborne particles, this cleans the air and removes odors. 

When to Drop the Bleach and Call SERVPRO

9/16/2019 (Permalink)

A non-branded 121 FL OZ. bleach bottle on a yellow background. Bleach is not the "do all, be all cure" for mold removal. Give SERVPRO a call!

Mold may seem like an easy fix to the untrained eye and the first "go to" fix it chemical in a home or business is bleach. 

This first instinct thought used to be the recommendation by agencies such as OSHA and the EPA. However, they have since been revised after research revealed that the "do all, be all cure" for killing microbial growth actually had the opposite effect.

Mold needs water, which is their food, and typically a warm temperature to grow. Where there is water, there is most likely mold, this shows that even for a water job you may be able to dry yourself, give SERVPRO a call to dry it right as well as check for mold.

The chlorine in bleach, due to it's ionic composition, cannot penetrate porous surfaces. Porous surfaces include: drywall, ceilings, wood, carpet and many others. Spraying bleach on the mold will only kill it on the surface. Mold actually has roots called hyphae, these roots will still remain in the porous material and eventually grow enough to rise to the surface again. Bleach contains both chlorine and water, the chlorine cannot make it below the surface - but the water can. Therefore by putting bleach on the mold you are actually replenishing the mold with one of the key things it needs to grow - water! The bleach will "bleach" the color, making it appear that the mold is gone but again, it is only on the surface.

At SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest provides specifically made products, designed to travel deep into porous surfaces to remove mold at its roots. Sometimes, we cannot remove all of the mold from an item and that would then classify it as un-salvageable and will be removed from the location for the safety of you and your family or employees. In addition, live mold releases spores into the air, therefore the air in your home may need to be treated with specialty equipment to make sure that all spores are removed.

Storm Supplies Kit

9/12/2019 (Permalink)

With warm winds from the South and cold winds from the North, the Midwest is a hub for tornadoes, thunderstorms, floods and snow storms. 

Sometimes extreme weather changes can occur within the same day, when severe weather hits unexpectedly, the risk of injury and death increases. Be prepared ahead of time with having an easily accessible grab and go Storm Supplies Kit.

To assemble your kit, store items in airtight plastic bags and put the entirety of your storm supplies kit in one or two easy to carry bags or containers such as a duffel bag or plastic bins.

A basic emergency supplies kit could include the following recommended items:

  • Water: one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation. If there are pets, one gallon per pet per day for at least three days for drinking.
  • Food: at least a three day supply of non-perishable food. If there are pets, a gallon size bag per pet full of non-perishable food should last for three days.
  • Battery powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert.
  • Battery operated or hand crank flashlight
  • Extra batteries (AA & AAA are most common)
  • Whistle to signal for help
  • One dust mask per person to help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to maintain a shelter
  • Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation
  • Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
  • Manual can opener for food
  • Local maps
  • First aid kit: non-latex gloves, assortment of adhesive bandages, antibiotic ointment, sterile gauze pads in assorted sizes, absorbent compress dressings, tweezers, scissors, adhesive cloth tape, aspirin packets (81 mg each).
  • Blankets or sleeping bags
  • Cellphones with chargers and a backup battery

TURN AROUND DON'T DROWN!

9/12/2019 (Permalink)

large highway covered in deep water so vehicles cannot drive through An Omaha highway under water due to the 2019 flooding

During a flood you may be asked to evacuate. It doesn’t take much water to carry you away, whether you’re on foot or in a vehicle. NEVER drive or walk into floodwaters. Turn Around Don’t Drown! The water may be deeper than anticipated, have an undercurrent, or have debris that can cause you injury. It can also damage your vehicle cause you to become stuck or the current can also cause your vehicle to be swept off the roadway. Seek an alternate route if flood water cover the road and evacuate when the proper authorities tell you too. Also abide by the posted road-closed signs and barricades. In many instances, drivers have put themselves and their passengers in danger by driving around such signs and ending up stranded in floodwaters.

If you do find yourself stranded in your vehicle in floodwaters, here are basic safety tips to remember.

  1. Remove your seatbelt.
  2. Remove the seatbelts of all occupants starting oldest to youngest.
  3. Roll down windows.
  4. Climb onto roof of the vehicle.
  5. Call 911 from the vehicle roof

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest is just a quick phone call away. Whether you are dealing with a the aftermath of flood waters or mold from your home or business being flooded, we are here to help. Emergencies do not work on a set schedule and can happen at any hour of the day or night. That’s why we are here 24/7, 365 to assist you should the need arise.

Call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest today at (402)408-0134

How to Prepare your Company for a Storm

9/12/2019 (Permalink)

snow covers the ground and large commercial buildings are in the distances Downtown Omaha buildings during the Winter

Summer is over, Fall is here, and Winter is right around the corner! While not every storm will cripple a business, it is still necessary to be prepared. Along with frigid temperatures and snow, winter can create problems with plumbing and operations. Therefore, it is essential to make a plan for the worst-case scenario.

  1. Prepare Your Building-Make sure you check your plumbing and electricity regularly, but even more so when a winter storm is heading your way. Outside plumbing should be shut off and cleared to prevent freezing and possible burst pipes. Additionally, it may be a good idea to secure a generator if your business does not already have one. If your company does have a generator, it is a good investment to have it serviced before the winter weather sets in.
  2. Plan for Ice and Snow-Any winter storm is going to bring issues of snow and ice. Being prepared for this situation means having a plow service on contract and ensuring that all walkways and driveways are cleared and salted. It is vital to do everything in your power to ensure that customers do not get hurt on the way into your business.
  3. Focus on Inventory-Also, as storms have the potential to cause significant business interruption as well as property damage, it is vital to take an accurate inventory of all your assets. This inventory will be used for insurance claims if property damage results in an inventory loss. You should move stock to a secure and climate-controlled area, photographing and documenting everything. This will help streamline the process if a claim is made.
  4. Make a List of Contacts-While taking inventory is necessary, it is also crucial to make a list of emergency contacts. This list should include all personnel who are essential to your operations. Additionally, you should include a disaster restoration specialists in the Omaha area in case of an emergency.

    Winter storm season can produce significant threats to business operations. Massive snowfalls and ice storms can wreak havoc on you Omaha business, so it is essential to have a plan. 

Call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest today at (402)408-0134 and schedule one of our marketers to come to your business to help you with an Emergency Readiness Plan at no cost to you!

Water Extraction

9/11/2019 (Permalink)

green SERVPRO water extractor machine Weighted Extraction with the Rover HVE

Storms can cause your Omaha home or business severe water damage. The carpet can be saturated with gallons of water after heavy rain.

Did you know that weighted extraction is 80% more efficient than air drying alone? The Rover HVE maximizes water removal from all types of carpet to accelerate drying in water damage restoration projects. Large amounts of water can be removed quickly by our SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest team armed with our Rover HVE.  The weight of the tech and the Rover causes the layers of carpet to pinch against the surface underneath, in turn, water is suctioned out making the carpet easier to dry after with our air dryers and dehumidifiers.

Call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest today at 402-408-0134. If your home or business has been affected by water damage our team is here to help! We are open 24 hours a day, 7 days per week, including holidays.

What Should I Do if my Omaha Home is Flooded?

9/11/2019 (Permalink)

A white and maroon home surrounded by flood water during the 2019 floods in Omaha These Omaha homes were surrounded by flood water during the May of 2019 floods in Omaha, Nebraska.

There are so many questions after your Omaha home is flooded due to a storm. What Should I do now? Who should I call? Follow these steps to assure your taken care of: 

  1. AVOID ADDITIONAL RISKS-Disconnect all the Electronics in your home, these can start fires if left on. Check for any visible structural damage of your home such as warping, loosened or cracked foundation elements, cracks, and holes. Contact utility companies if you suspect damage to water, gas, electric, or sewer lines.
  2. TAKE PICTURES-Before you remove any water or make repairs, fully document the damage of your home by taking photos or videos. Digital photos are best so they can easily be transferred and shared.
  3. PROTECT YOUR HEALTH-Even if the water in your home is clear, it could be contaminated by sewage or household chemicals. Wear gloves when removing water-damaged possessions, throw away any food that may have come in contact with the flood water, and boil water until authorities declare the water supply is safe to drink. 
  4. CALL YOUR INSURANCE COMPANY-Call your insurance agent as soon as possible after the flood. Always have their number on hand in your emergency bag. Document the damage, communication, and notify them of any repairs. 
  5. REMOVE WATER/MITIGATE MOLD DAMAGE- Have a Restoration Company like SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest Remove the Water, extraction of water helps with the drying process and will save your home from future problems. Mold can also develop within 24-48 hours after a flood. SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest can mitigate the mold by our cleaning/drying processes.  

Call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest today at 402-408-0134. If your home or business has been affected by water damage our team is here to help! We are open 24 hours a day, 7 days per week, including holidays.

Fire Odor--SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest Can Make it go Away!

9/11/2019 (Permalink)

Fire trucks parked along side a metal fence with red lights flashing Small fire quickly extinguished in Omaha home

After a fire in your home, you quickly start to go through your home assessing the damage. It can be overwhelming. Fires happen quickly, but the smell of the fire in your home can last for weeks. Odor removal is an often overlooked, but significant aspect of the fire restoration services that SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest offers.

While our SERVPRO team is well educated in restoration techniques and cleaning processes to restore areas of your home that have been damaged aesthetically by an unexpected fire, the lingering odor that remains is often something that homeowners are less concerned with initially. It becomes more and more problematic as the home is being restored, but the smoke and charring scent of the fire’s destruction remains as powerful as ever.

Fortunately, our highly trained team of technicians has state-of-the-art equipment for removing foul smells from a residence or business. Deodorizing happens through the use of dense fogging machines. The machines are capable of producing a heavy chemical fog that is sprayed throughout the entire affected area, ensuring that all of the affected structure and contents are also affected by the fog.

Call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest today at 402-408-0134. If your home or business has been affected by fire damage our team is here to help! We are open 24 hours a day, 7 days per week, including holidays.

What Happens After Fire Damage to Your Home?

9/9/2019 (Permalink)

A room is severely burnt and black, destroyed by a fire Follow these steps after being faced with fire damage

Fire damage can be devastating. As a homeowner, the steps you take after fire occurs can determine the speed at which your home will be restored. Follow these steps after you suffer through a fire in your home, to make it as easy as possible after a difficult time: 

1. Call your insurance agent immediately. 

2. Contact a fire restoration company. Immediately after a fire, you’ll need to clean up any soot or water damage. Sometimes windows will need boarding up and other construction may need to be conducted. It is important to hire a reputable service to deal with these issues. Contact SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest and let us know about the fire. Once contacted we will send a project manager to your home to assess the damages and work with you and your insurance carrier to get your home back to preloss condition. 

3. Separate damaged property from undamaged property. The insurance company will need a detailed inventory list from you after they inspect the loss. Separating your damaged property from your undamaged property will make it easier for you to make a list of your damaged items.

4. Save undamaged property from further destruction. Any items that are not damaged should be put in a safe place, even if it means putting them in storage. 

5. Cooperate fully with the insurance company’s investigation. When a fire claim is reported to an insurance company, it is given top priority. Usually the adjusters come out to see the loss within 24 to 48 hours. 

6. Find somewhere to stay if you can’t live in your home. Most homeowner’s policies include “Loss of Use or Loss of Rents” coverage, which will pay for the food, clothing, and shelter that you and your family may need for a specified period of time. 

Got Mold in Omaha?

9/3/2019 (Permalink)

Due to all of the recent moisture we have had this summer in Omaha, mold could be growing in your home or business. Did you know mold can start to grow in less than 24 hours? If a water even caused your basement to flood, mold can start to appear on surfaces that day!

The first step to preventing mold growth, is to identify the cause and fix the source of moisture. Mold thrives with moisture. Steam from a shower, damp basements, plumbing leaks, and flooding are examples of sources of moisture. 

Follow your nose to find the source. Mold generally has a musty odor. Mold can appear to be slimy or fuzzy, and can grow anywhere moisture is found. 

Call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest at (402)408-0134 to help remediate your mold issue today. Not only can our team help to identify the mold, they can help with options for removal and remediation of surfaces affected.

Helpful Tips to Prevent a House Fire

9/3/2019 (Permalink)

House that is actively on fire. Fires are preventable. Fire preparedness is an essential part of protecting your home and family.

House fires kill and injure many every year, while leaving many without their home, and valuable memories and possessions. Fire prevention is more important than many realize. 

Ways to Prevent House Fires

-Establish an emergency plan with fire routes. 

-Test all smoke alarms in your home.

-Teach your children fire safety. 

-Perform home maintenance consistently.

- Use candles with caution.

-Don't leave food cooking unattended.

- Store flammables safely.

- Know where the fire extinguishers are and how to use them. 

- Check all electrical cords in your home. If wires are frayed, throw it away.

Fire preparation is an important part of safeguarding your home and your family. Knowing not only how to prevent a fire but also how to escape it and get quick fire cleanup is essential.

Does Your Home Have an Odor in Omaha, NE

8/30/2019 (Permalink)

Two green air scrubbers that are used to remove odors. Air scrubbers are one of the ways SERVPRO can help to neutralize an odor.

Does your home or business have a nagging odor? Does it smell like an ashtray or a barn? Do you feel like you need to light the candles and spray the room deodorizer regularly? 

Back away from all the scented cover-ups. Let SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest get to the root cause of the odor.

Give SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest a call to neutralize the odors. Our team has state of the art equipment for removing foul odors from a residence or business. 

Whether it is a cigarette smoke, pet odors in furniture or floors, or a mildewy bathroom, call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest at (402)408-0134 to help remedy any odor situation. SERVPRO is here to make it "Like it never even happened."

National Preparedness Month

8/30/2019 (Permalink)

Logo for Prepared Not Scared. Weekly topics provided by ready.gov. Photo by Ready.gov

Did you know September is National Readiness Month? Disasters can strike businesses big or small. Disasters can devastate a community in just a matter of moments.

Disasters caused by wind, fire, water, or weather can strike at anytime without warning. Business owners need to establish an Emergency Plan and practice it with all employees. 

Companies can find vital information regarding emergency plans at ready.gov/business. 

-Update all emergency contact information and give to all employees.

-Implement Emergency Policies and Procedures.

-Sign up for alerts and warnings in your area.

-Conduct Emergency drills with employees.

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest offers a NO COST Emergency Readiness Profile (ERP) to help with your emergency planning. 

Don't wait until disaster strikes. Call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest at (402)408-0134 to discuss your ERP today! 

Faster to Your Water Disaster

8/30/2019 (Permalink)

Three SERVPRO vans parked side by side. SERVPRO takes pride in the work we do, and the equipment we use to do it.

Faster to your Omaha water disaster!

Flooding and water disasters don't wait for regular business hours, and neither do we. SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for all emergency cleaning and restoration, including all holidays. 

Faster To Any Size Disaster

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

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – (402)408-0134

About SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest 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.

New Owners for SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest

8/5/2019 (Permalink)

New franchise owners Lathe and Nicole Toft

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest is pleased to announce new franchise owners Lathe and Nicole Toft. 

Lathe and Nicole are originally from NW Iowa and are very familiar with the SERVPRO industry. Previously owners of SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes as well as Boji Builders, a general contracting firm. The two have plenty of knowledge and experience in both the restoration and construction industry. 

Lathe holds certifications in Water Damage Restoration Technician, Applied Structural Drying, Applied Microbial Remediation Technician, and Fire & Smoke Restoration Technician.  He has been in the industry since 2017 and prides himself in customer service and understands the stress associated with any kind of disaster. 

Nicole is an RN and has worked in the industry since 2018. She brings prior sales experience and a great bedside manner which helps ease the minds of customers as they navigate through their disaster. 

If you find yourself facing a disaster you can be rest assured Lathe and Nicole will take care of you and make your restoration as stress free as possible. 

The Emergency Ready Profile Advantage

8/5/2019 (Permalink)

Call today to set up your Emergency Ready Profile for your business. 402-408-0134.

As the sales and marketing representative for SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest, one of my key targets each month is to help businesses be prepared in the event of a disaster.  One way we do that is through our Emergency Ready Profile program. 

The Emergency Ready Profile, or ERP, is a free service provided by SERVPRO in which we help area businesses with such things as locating their emergency shut offs for their electrical systems, water, and gas.  We also compile information on their key contacts in the event of any emergency so the business is prepared and can calmly work through the situation.  Since this is a free service, there are no contracts to sign and no obligations to purchase any products.  Our only request is, if your business does suffer from a disaster to give us an opportunity to make it Like it never even happened.

The ERP also contains tips and suggestions that the business can do before help arrives and provides somewhat of a roadmap helping them get back into their business more quickly and ultimately minimizing the interruption. 

As I continue to grow the number of businesses in our coverage area that have an ERP set up, it was a few months ago that we had the opportunity to truly see the power of the plan in action.  A local business suffered a frozen pipe on the third story of their building reaching numerous rooms within the facility.  With this plan, the building contact knew exactly who to call and within hours our team was on site helping them to restore function to nearly 50% of the rooms affected by the end of day 1.  The other rooms required more drying time, but they were able to recover a fair amount of potential lost income by simply having a plan in place and knowing what to do prior to help arriving. 

The best part of the ERP process is the amount of work the business owner or manager must do to get this set up is minimal.  A sales and marketing representative will come to your business and take the necessary photos and information, then finish putting the document together at the office.  This process usually only takes 30 minutes or less and the business owner can proof and edit the document as often as they would like.  When approved, the business will receive both a hard copy and a digital copy through our ERP app. 

For more questions or to set up an Emergency Ready Profile for your business, call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest at 402-408-0134

Understanding Fire Restoration

8/5/2019 (Permalink)

Soot damage can be extremely harmful to your lungs and equally as difficult to clean up. Call the restoration team at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest.

We have all heard that soot is bad for us.  It contains a variety of toxic chemical compounds that are harmful to respiratory systems of those coming in prolonged contact with the particles.  Soot damage from a fire can often be quite time consuming and tricky to clean up.   After having worked a few fire restoration jobs myself I understood firsthand how much work goes into the restoration process. 

After a fire, soot spreads throughout far reaches to a home or business due to the smaller particles.  While the fire may be contained to the kitchen, soot can travel to multiple floors or rooms which increases the time for cleanup. 

The first restoration job I was a part of was a small kitchen fire in a one-story home.  The fire was contained to the kitchen and truly the damage was not bad.  The soot however traveled into 3 other rooms in the home, one being on the other side of the house.  In addition to cleaning the walls and surfaces from ceiling to floor, we cleaned kitchen cabinets inside & out, cleaned all toys individually, gathers items for dry cleaning, cleaned furniture, and had the HVAC system thoroughly cleaned. 

For even a small job, our crew of 3 worked for 2 days to get the family back into their home.  Depending on the scope of the job, some can take longer and require more in-depth cleaning and/or reconstruction.

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest is trained in IICRC restoration standards for fire restoration.  We pride ourselves on being quite thorough when completing a job, ensuring you and your family forget the disaster occurred and your home or business look Like it never even happened. 

If disaster strikes, call the team that’s faster to any disaster in Southwest Omaha 402-408-0134!

Disaster Preparedness For Your Home

9/14/2018 (Permalink)

Fire Damage, Water Damage Storm Damage, Mold Damage, Sewage Backup.  These are just a few types of disasters that can affect your home.

National Preparedness Month is a great time to evaluate and elevate your level of preparedness.  Our years of experience helping the Omaha community to recover from disasters large and small have proven the value of preparedness. Preparedness is vital to being better able to recover from most forms of loss and allow for peace of mind before anything even happens.

SERVPRO of Omaha SW encourages you to review the following links to find no-cost ways to be better prepared:
Family Emergency Plan
Family Communication Plans
Wallet-sized Communication Cards
Emergency Supply Checklist (BASIC)
Build An Emergency Kit

If you or your family are affected by a disaster such as fire, water, mold or sewage; call the trusted professionals at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest at 402-408-0134.  Our experienced crews are always here to help.

Disaster Preparedness For Your Business

9/14/2018 (Permalink)

Whether your business experiences a large fire damage, water damage, or a small sewage backup, preparation is the key to making it through any size disaster. Having a plan in place may help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive and get you back in the building following the disaster.

The recent fire at Pettit’s Pastry in Omaha is just one example of the need to be prepared. According to the Omaha World Herald article, several business were affected and fortunately, a few of them are able to conduct business from alternate locations.

Since September is National Preparedness Month, it is a great time to consider your level of disaster preparedness at your business. As a trusted partner in the Omaha business community, we would like to share a few free disaster preparedness tools for your business.

Ready.gov is a great resource for all aspects of preparedness, from planning to implementing an effective disaster plan.

SERVPRO of Omaha SW offers a no-cost Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) as an important part of your preparedness planning.

Don't wait until disaster strikes. Call SERVPRO of Omaha SW to establish your ERP today.

If your business is affected by a disaster, from fire damage to water damage, call the trusted professionals at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest at 402-408-0134. Our experienced crews are always here to help.

Record Rainfall Causes Flooded Basements in Omaha, NE

8/20/2018 (Permalink)

Heavy rains cause local flooding in the Omaha Metro.

Heavy rains are causing water damage from flooded basements in many parts of the Omaha Metropolitan area. This article in the Omaha World Herald featured our owner, Pat Nosal commenting on the storm event.  Over 6 inches of rain has fallen by mid-afternoon on Monday, while the a light rain continued.

Heavy rains frequently cause water seepage into basements, which is not usually covered by standard homeowners insurance. Keep gutters clear and downspouts running away from your foundation to guard against basement flooding.

It is also a good idea to check your foundation for low spots, particularly after a heavy rain. Sometimes, gutters overflow during a heavy rain and cause the ground to sink. These low spots collect rainwater near your foundation and can lead to water seeping into the basement.

If your Omaha-area home or business needs water damage cleanup, call the trusted professionals at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest at 402-408-0134; we are always here to help.

Severe Weather Preparedness in Omaha, NE

7/2/2018 (Permalink)

Recent heavy rains and severe storms in the Omaha area are cause to be mindful of severe weather preparedness.
As a premier fire and water restoration provider, SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest wants you to be prepared for dangerous weather events.

A few simple actions will increase your readiness today:

Check the weather forecast regularly. Know when there is an increased risk of severe weather in your area.

Obtain a NOAA Weather Radio. You can purchase a weather radio from the Red Cross store or from Midland USA or at local stores such as Hy-Vee, Bakers, Shopko, and others.

Learn about Wireless Emergency Alerts. These are emergency messages sent by authorized government-alerting authorities through your mobile carrier. Government partners include local and state public safety agencies, FEMA, the FCC, the Department of Homeland Security, and the National Weather Service. Visit www.ctia.org to learn more about Wireless Emergency Alerts, including how to determine of your mobile device is WEA-capable.

Learn more about severe weather safety. The Red Cross is an excellent source of severe weather safety and warning information and tools. Visit the Red Cross Preparedness website to learn more about preparedness for disasters of all kind. Be sure to check out the app store for the FREE Red Cross Tornado App.
If you experience storm damage, call the trusted professionals at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest at 402-408-0134. We are always here to help.

Spring Rain Can Mean Flood Pain in Omaha

4/25/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Omaha SW helped restore this Omaha basement with over 8" of water. The homeowner was grateful for our crews fast response and hard work.

The Omaha Metro typically sees periods of heavy rain in the spring months. In fact, Fall and spring tend to be our wettest seasons making our homes most susceptible to the backup of sewer or drain lines. While these events don't occur often, when they do, the problem can be a small disaster. Did you know a standard homeowner's insurance policy excludes coverage for such an event?
It's true. The backup of sewer and drains as well as the failure of a sump pump is excluded. The damage you sustain from either of these problems will not be covered and you'll be responsible to pay for the loss and the cleanup. If you have a finished basement, or use your basement area for storage, you shouldn't go without this coverage endorsement.
Heavy rains can trigger a backup. A storm sewer backs up into your home and usually comes in through a sump well, washtubs in the basement, or toilets in the basement. However, the damage can happen anywhere in the house. Sump pump failures normally occur from power outages or motor failures. Sump pumps run on electricity and during a bad storm many times the power goes out. That's when you need the sump pump the most, to pump the heavy water from the rain out of the basement.
The damage can be quite costly. Normally damage occurs in the basement, which houses the mechanical systems of the house such as: washer and dryer, furnace, hot water tank and the numerous items people store there. Water or sewage usually destroys anything it comes in contact with. For the thousands of dollars in damage, it would be well worth purchasing the additional coverage with your homeowner's policy to cover such an event.
Be sure to ask your agent about this coverage to make sure you already have it on your policy or to purchase it. This coverage can often be purchased as an endorsement on its own, or with an endorsement that will expand/increase other coverages on the policy. The additional cost typically runs between $25 and $50 annually. Well worth the peace of mind. The key is to ask your agent or company what your best option is.
If you experience sewer or water damage at your home, SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest is here to help 24x7. Call us at 402-408-0134.

Smoke Odor in Omaha From Weekend Fires

4/23/2018 (Permalink)

This picture was taken from 36th street and Hwy 370 (while we wre waiting at a red light, of course). The smoke was visible from several miles away.

Two separate fires on Sunday sent a large plume of smoke billowing over the Omaha Metro area on Sunday afternoon and evening.  By Monday morning, a haze fell low over much of the area and my north Bellevue neighborhood had a pungent smoke odor.  I had my car vents on "outside air", pulling the stench into my car as I drove to work this morning.  Fortunately, I work for a company that can help get rid of the odor in my car.

We have fielded a few calls already from home and business owners asking for assistance in deodorizing their properties.

If your home or business has experienced smoke damage or you would like our help with the smoke odor, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Omaha SW at 402-408-0134. Our experienced crews are always here to help.

Check out this story on the Omaha World Herald website to read more about the fires.

Electrical Safety in the Office and at Home.

9/11/2017 (Permalink)

No one ever wants to deal with the aftermath of a fire, so take these precautions to prevent dealing with a devastating loss.

Consumer electronic products are more prevalent than ever. Research indicates that the average household owns more than twenty-five consumer electronic products. With all of today’s technology, it can prove challenging to safely maintain power to all of our electronic devices. Electrical outlets are easy to overload and as a result, may become hazardous. While adding a power strip or extension cord seems like an easy solution to a lack of electrical outlets, the wiring in some buildings often isn’t capable of supporting too many high-powered electronic appliances.

Older office buildings and homes, in particular, often suffer from lack of electrical outlets. The temptation is to simply add a power strip or plug in an extension cord from across the room. Even in newer office buildings and homes, it can be all too easy to overload a single outlet with power hungry machines such as computers, printers, scanners and monitors.

When an employee or resident overloads an electrical outlet, that means more current is running through the outlet than it can handle. This causes the outlet to overheat, which may lead to an electrical fire. According to a 2008 National Fire Protection Association study, electrical distribution and lighting equipment are involved in more than 24,000 home structure fires per year. These fires resulted in an average of 320 deaths per year and an estimated $700 million in property damage per year.

If an electrical fire should occur, get safely away from the fire and call your fire department. If you choose to use an extinguisher on the fire, never let the fire get between you and a safe exit, and never let use water to extinguish an electrical fire. Class C fire extinguishers use a non-conductive extinguishing agent and should not cause electrical shock.

To help prevent this and other electrical hazards, refer to the list below (provided by Electrical Safety Foundation International).

  • If you must use a power strip, use a name brand product from a reputable retailer. Low-quality or counterfeit power strips may contain wiring that isn’t adequate to carry the load.
  • Place power strips where there is plenty of air circulation to disperse the heat.
  • Never attempt to plug grounded (three-pronged) cords into an ungrounded (two-pronged) outlet.
  • Do not bind, kink or know electrical cords.

National Preparedness Month: Plan to Stay in Business

8/25/2017 (Permalink)

photo by ready.gov

As a business owner or manager, you are a leader in your community and have the opportunity to set an example for your employees, customers, and community to follow.

This year, for National Preparedness Month during the month of September, join your community in preparing for emergencies and disasters of all types, and leading efforts to encourage the community as a whole to become more prepared.

Disasters not only devastate individuals and neighborhoods, but entire communities, including businesses of all sizes. As an employer in your community, having a business continuity plan can help protect your company, its employees, and its infrastructure, and maximizes your chances of recovery after an emergency or disaster.

Ready Business askes companies to take three simple steps:

  • Plan to stay in business
  • Encourage your employees to become Ready;
  • Protect your investment

Tips to help Businesses be Ready

Ready Business, an extension of Ready Campaign, helps business owners and managers of small and medium-sized businesses prepare their employees, operations and assets in the event of an emergency. At Ready.gov/business, companies can find vital information on how to get started preparing their and addressing their unique needs during an emergency.

  • Update and Distribute Emergency Contact Information to your Employees. Additionally, you can create and distribute a list of important emergency numbers in the areas you do business.
  • Organize an Emergency Preparedness Procedures review with employees to review your company’s emergency plans.
  • Conduct Office Evacuation/Shelter-in-Place Exercises and Drills. Once completed, evaluate how well they worked and if additional training or exercises are needed.
  • Put Emergency Items on Display. Showcase an Emergency Supply Kit in your break room or other high-traffic locations and encourage employees to get their own Emergency Supply Kits for their homes.

Carbon Monoxide - A Silent Killer

7/25/2017 (Permalink)

You can’t see or smell carbon monoxide, but at high levels, it can kill a person in minutes. Often called the silent killer, carbon monoxide is an invisible, odorless, colorless gas created when fuels, like gasoline, wood, coal, natural gas, propane, etc. burn incompletely.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, hundreds of people die accidentally every year from carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning as a result of improperly used or malfunctioning fuel burning appliances. Even more die from CO produced by idling cars.

The EPA says prevention is the key to avoiding carbon monoxide poisoning. Protect yourself with these tips:

  • Have fuel-burning appliances, like oil and gas furnaces, gas or kerosene heaters, fireplaces and wood stoves, inspected by a trained professional at the beginning of every heating season.
  • Install audible CO detectors; in homes, place them outside of each sleeping area.
  • Never use a charcoal grill, hibachi or generator in an enclosed area, like a garage. Even if the door is open, the CO may not be properly ventilated.
  • Do not idle a car inside a garage.
  • Before using a fireplace, make sure the flue is open of proper ventilation.

Using Portable Fire Extinguishers

1/23/2017 (Permalink)

Portable fire extinguishers can be life and property saving tools when used correctly.  In order to operate an extinguisher, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) suggests remembering the word PASS:



  • Pull the pin.  Hold the nozzle pointing away from you         and release the locking mechanism.

  • Aim low.  Point the extinguisher at the base of the fire.

  • Squeeze the level slowly and evenly.

  • Sweep the nozzle from side-to-side.


Read the instructions on the fire extinguisher and become familiar with then before a fire breaks out.  Remember, extinguishers do have limitations.  It is also important to ensure you have the correct type of extinguisher for your facility.  To find more information on choosing the appropriate class of extinguisher, please visit the NFPA website at www.nfpa.org.


We are here to help 24x7.  Call us at 402-408-0134

Water Damage Tips - What To Do Until Help Arrives

12/19/2016 (Permalink)

A break in a small pipe like this can lead to a big problem. Call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest 402-408-0134. We are here to help 24x7.

Winter has officially arrived in Omaha and it has brought sub-zero temperatures to prove it.  The deep-freeze typically ushers in a high volume of frozen pipes, sometimes leaving property owners waiting days instead of hours for help to clean up their property.  


At times like these, we receive several calls seeking advice on what to do until help arrives.  The answer depends on whether the water is clean or contaminated.  Generally speaking, water from a supply line is considered clean, while water from drains is considered contaminated.  There are exceptions to this general guideline.  


If you are unsure of the classification of water affecting your property, consult your water damage experts at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest at 402-408-0134 and we will help as best we can.


CLEAN Water Damage Tips


DO:



  • Shut off the source of the water if possible or contact a qualified party to stop the water source.

  • Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building, when access to the power distribution panel is safe from electrical shock.

  • Remove as much excess water as possible my mopping and blotting.

  • Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removing lamps and tabletop items.

  • Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying.

  • Place aluminum foid or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.

  • Remove to a safe, dry place any paintings, art objects, computers, documents and other materials that are valuable or sensitive to moisture.

  • Use wooden clothespins to keep furniture skirting off damp floors.

  • Hang draperies with coated hangars to avoid contact with wet carpeting or floors.

  • Hang furs and leather goods to dry separately at room temperature.


DO NOT:



  • Enter rooms with standing water where electrical shock hazards may exist.

  • Enter affected areas of electrical outlets, switches, circuit breakers or electrical equipment are exposed to water.  Always avoid electrical shock hazards.

  • Leave books, newspapers, magazines or other colored items on wet carpets or floors to cause staining.

  • Leave Oriental rugs or other colored rugs on wet wall-to-wall carpets to cause staining.

  • Use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water, possibly causing electrical shock or damage to the vacuum cleaner.

  • Turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet or enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water.


CONTAMINATED Water Damage Tips


DO:



  • Avoid all contact with sewage and items contaminated by sewage.

  • Wash your hands thoroughly after contact with contaminated items.


DO NOT:



  • Spread contaminated water by walking unnecessarily on damaged or wet areas.

  • Turn on HVAC system if there is a possibility of spreading contaminated air.

  • Use household fans to dry the structure and spread contaminants.

  • Use products for personal hygiene and cleanliness if exposed to the contaminated areas.


The most important thing to remember is that if you have any questions or require help; call the professionals at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest at 402-408-0134.  We are here to help 24x7.

Home Heating Fire Safety in Omaha

12/13/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest cleaned up after this Omaha-Area heating fire.

The change in season means an increase in the use of supplemental home heating, and an increase in home heating fires.  An October 2013 report from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) using date from 2007-2011 reveals some sobering statistics:



  • Space heaters accounted for 33% of home heating fires and 81% of home heating deaths.

  • The leading factor contributing in home heating fires was failure to clean (primarily creosote) from solid-fueled heating equipment, primarily chimneys.

  • The leading factor contributing to ignition in 53% of fatal home heating fires was having flammable items too close to heating equipment.


With these statistics in mind, here are some tips for safe home heating:


Fireplaces:



  • Always use protective screens to keep sparks and embers inside the firebox.

  • Ensure the air inlet is free from debris and obstructions.

  • Keep combustible decorations or furniture away from heat source.

  • Burn only seasoned wood, never rubbish or scraps of treated lumber.


Woodstoves:



  • Check the iron and steel components for cracks or degradation from the fire's heat and replace those that are bad.

  • Close a dollar bill in the door at various spots around the frame.  If you can pull it out easily the gaskets are won and should be changed.

  • Set woodstoves on hearth rugs made of spark resistant material.


Space Heaters:



  • Plug heaters directly into a wall socket and not into extension cords.

  • Unplug heaters when they are not in use.

  • Do not place heaters in walkways or in locations where they could be easily knocked over and ensure heaters are equipped with a tip-over switch.

  • Keep clothing, furniture, draperies, paper and other items at least three feet away from the space heater.

  • Use only electric heaters equipped with a thermostat or an automatic shut off switch.

  • Do not hide cords under rugs or carpets.  Placing anything on top of the cord could cause the cord to overheat, and can cause a fire.

  • Leave appropriate and recommended amount of space surrounding a space heater.


The trusted professionals at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest hope you have a safe and happy Christmas season.


If you have questions or need help, please call us 24x7 at 402-408-0134

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