Guide to Prepare for Hurricane Hilary - Southern California

8/18/2023 (Permalink)

Preparing for a Category 5 Hurricane: A Comprehensive Guide

When a Category 5 hurricane is on the horizon, time is of the essence. These powerful storms bring with them catastrophic winds, torrential rain, and life-threatening storm surges. Preparation is critical not only to protect your property but, more importantly, to ensure the safety of your family and yourself. Here's a concise guide to help you prepare:

1. Stay Informed:

• Monitor local news and weather channels. Trusted sources such as the National Hurricane Center (NHC) will provide regular updates and advisories.
• Download weather apps. These can give real-time notifications and tracking.

2. Evacuate if Advised:

• Listen to local authorities. If they recommend or mandate evacuation, do so promptly.
• Plan your route. Know multiple routes in case one is blocked.
• Inform someone. Let a family member or friend outside the danger zone know where you're headed.

3. Create an Emergency Kit: Stock up on essentials including:

• Water and non-perishable food for at least three days (one gallon of water per person per day).
• Medications and a first aid kit.
• Flashlights, extra batteries, and a battery-operated radio.
• Important documents (insurance, medical records, bank account numbers) in a waterproof container.
• Cash (as ATMs might be down).
• Chargers for your devices, possibly solar or battery-powered.

4. Secure Your Home:

• Install storm shutters or board up windows using plywood.
• Clear your yard of any potential flying debris such as lawn furniture, tools, and toys.
• Secure doors.
• Consider installing a sump pump if flooding is a concern.

5. Plan for Pets:

• Have a pet emergency kit with food, water, and medications.
• Ensure your pet has a secure carrier or leash.
• Know pet-friendly shelters or hotels on your evacuation route.

6. Protect Your Vehicle:

• Fill up the gas tank. Gas stations could run out or lose power.
• Store it in a garage or secure area if possible.
• Avoid parking under trees or in low-lying areas prone to flooding.

7. Communicate:

• Establish a communication plan with family. Everyone should know who to contact and where to meet if separated.
• Use text or social media to let others know you're safe. Phone lines might be jammed.

8. Be Cautious After the Storm:

• Stay indoors until local authorities declare it's safe.
• Avoid floodwaters. They may be contaminated or electrically charged.
• Inspect your home for damage. Document any issues for insurance claims.
• Be wary of fallen power lines and report them to the utility company.

A Category 5 hurricane is an extreme weather event, but with thorough preparation, you can significantly increase your chances of weathering the storm safely. Remember, while possessions can be replaced, lives cannot. Safety first!

Rain Water Damage

6/20/2023 (Permalink)

Rain. It can be refreshing, soothing, even necessary for life. However, it can also be a source of anxiety and frustration for homeowners, as excessive rain can lead to water damage in our homes.

Rain water damage can manifest in various ways - from leaks in your roof, flooding in your basement or crawl spaces, to issues as serious as structural damage. Unfortunately, these issues often remain hidden until they become significant problems.

One of the most apparent signs of water damage is staining on ceilings or walls, indicating a potential leak. If these signs are ignored, over time, this could lead to the growth of mold, which presents an additional health hazard.

At SERVPRO of Pasadena North, we specialize in recognizing and addressing rain water damage swiftly and effectively. Our team of experienced professionals is trained to identify both visible and hidden water damage, using advanced tools and techniques to ensure no dampness is overlooked.

In the event of heavy rainfall, the first step is to conduct a thorough inspection of your property. If water damage is detected, we'll develop a customized plan to dry, clean, and restore the affected areas. We use the latest equipment, including industrial strength dehumidifiers and high-speed air movers, to accelerate the drying process and prevent the growth of mold.

Beyond addressing the immediate damage, we're also here to help you prevent future rain water damage. From advising on regular maintenance tasks like gutter cleaning and roof inspections, to recommending improvements in drainage systems, we're committed to helping you protect your home in any weather.

Remember, not all effects of rain are soothing and calming; some can be downright disruptive. But with SERVPRO of Pasadena North as your partner in water damage restoration, you can rest easy knowing that even the heaviest rainfall won't dampen your peace of mind.

Contents Pack Out

6/20/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Pasadena North pack out services

When your home suffers from water damage, one of the immediate concerns is the safety of your personal belongings. Can your furniture, electronics, or other valuable items be salvaged? How can these be protected during the restoration process? This is where our pack out services at SERVPRO of Pasadena North step in to offer you peace of mind.

During a pack out, our professional team carefully inventories, packs, and moves your belongings to a secure, climate-controlled location. This serves a dual purpose: not only does it protect your items from further damage, but it also clears the space for a more efficient water damage restoration process.

Before anything is moved, we meticulously document each item to ensure a smooth process and peace of mind. We then professionally pack and transport your items, taking utmost care to prevent any further damage.

At our secure facilities, your items will be cleaned, restored, and stored until your home is ready. Depending on the nature of the damage, this could include professional drying, odor removal, or even specialized cleaning processes for sensitive items.

Once your home has been fully restored and is ready to be lived in again, we return your belongings to their rightful places, "Like it never even happened."

At SERVPRO of Pasadena North, we understand that water damage does more than just harm to your property. It can also pose a risk to your precious belongings. Our comprehensive pack out services are designed to mitigate this risk, ensuring the safety and restoration of your personal items.

We take care of your belongings as if they were our own, giving you one less thing to worry about during the water mitigation process. Trust SERVPRO of Pasadena North to help make your home—and life—whole again.

Fire Damage & Summer BBQs

6/16/2023 (Permalink)

Summer is synonymous with barbecues. These social gatherings bring together friends and family for good food, laughter, and shared memories. However, the flip side to this summer tradition is the risk of fire damage that can occur if a barbecue is not properly managed. 

Uncontrolled BBQ fires can easily escalate, causing significant damage to properties. Improper disposal of hot coal, not maintaining a safe distance from flammable objects, and equipment malfunction are some common causes of such fires.

But, fear not! At SERVPRO of Pasadena North, we are committed to ensuring that your summer barbecues remain a source of joy rather than stress. Alongside providing tips for preventing BBQ-related fires, we are here to offer immediate and comprehensive fire damage restoration services should the need arise.

Remember, always keep your BBQ unit at a safe distance from your home, outdoor furniture, and overhanging trees. Regularly clean and maintain your BBQ equipment to prevent grease fires, and never leave it unattended when in use. 

However, accidents do happen. In the event of a fire, once everyone is safe and the fire is extinguished, there can be a tremendous sense of loss looking at the damage caused. But, this is where we come in. Our fire damage restoration experts at SERVPRO of Pasadena North will swiftly assess the damage, clean up the debris, and restore your home to its previous condition. 

So, fire up that grill and enjoy your summer barbecues knowing that you are prepared for any mishap and that SERVPRO of Pasadena North is just a call away for all your fire damage restoration needs. Remember, BBQs should be memorable for the right reasons. Let's keep it that way.

Emergency Water Damage Tips

3/2/2022 (Permalink)

Tips to be helpful before SERVPRO arrives

A water damage occurs in your home and you have already called SERVPRO of Pasadena North to come to the rescue, but what can you do in the meantime to help?

First off, SAFETY FIRST, make sure the home is in a safe enough condition to move around. Remember, wet objects are much heavier than you may think, use caution when lifting. 

Here are a few ways you can help before SERVPRO arrives:

• Gather any loose items from the floor
• Remove your art objects from the walls to a safe space where they can be dry
• Turn your a/c on (if its a hot day) to help speed up the drying process
• Place wood blocks or aluminum between furniture legs and wet carpet 
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after you remove any lamps, clocks, or other decor 

Rainfall Flooding

12/17/2021 (Permalink)

Here in Southern California we had some heavy rainfall a few days ago in December that effected so many homes and streets. The following counties had street flooding due to rain: San Bernardino, Orange, and LA county. 

Most people were not prepared to see any rain this season so all the usual precautions were not taken to prevent flooding. 

We got several phone calls regarding:

• roof leaks - due to high winds blowing off shingles prior to rainfall
• clogged gutters causing water damage
• Saturated garden beds - which caused water seepage in through common walls of basements, crawlspaces, etc.
• Over flowed sump pumps 
• through cracks in the window seals

If these things are not addressed in a timely manner the possibly of mold growth increases. Be sure to call SERVPRO of Pasadena North (626) 447-4111

Frozen Pipes

12/13/2021 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO of Pasadena North we know first hand how hard a commercial water damage can be on a business. It is very important for all business owner to be aware of the possible causes of water damages and what to do at first sight of them.

Right now in California the weather is starting to become very cold and that alone can cause some unforeseen damages since we are not well equipped for this type of weather. Us California natives know this type of cold weather usually does not last this long, but that doesn't mean it cant do damage in the little time that it is here. 

The most common cold weather damage can be frozen pipe bursts. You can tell if your pipes are freezing if you see water stains on the walls, ceilings, and floors, musty/molded smells, and cracked tiles. 

If you can be vigilant you can try to avoid these damages. In the event that you do not catch a damage before it happens you can always call your locals professionals at (626) 447-4111

SERVPRO Happy Holidays!

12/3/2021 (Permalink)

Happy Holidays from SERVPRO of Pasadena North

SERVPRO of Pasadena North would like to wish you a very Happy Holidays this year! It has been a rough past two years for everyone with the pandemic happening and we would love to spread a little Holiday cheer!

Every year we gather up our SERVPRO family for a day of fun! We make a fresh pot of coffee and hot chocolate for those who do not drink coffee, take out of Christmas tree and start decorating. It is a great team building activity that continues to bring us closer together as a whole. 

Sometimes all that we need is a little bit of kindness to become a better team. What better way to do that than during the holidays!

From our SERVPRO family to yours

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

Christmas Tree Fire Safety

12/2/2021 (Permalink)

Christmas Tree Fire Safety

Everyone here at SERVPRO of Pasadena North believes that safety must be our top priority this holiday season. We know it can be very hard to think about safety when you are so happy and merry. SERVPRO would like to remind you of some tips to follow this year.

We all love picking out a Christmas tree, putting up decorations, sipping on some rich hot chocolate by the fireplace while listening to holiday music. Remember, some of these things can cause massive house fires. We advise you to take into consideration the following:

• Keep your Christmas trees far away from fireplaces, space heaters, and stoves.
• Do night light flame candles near your tree.
• Make sure to check holiday lights each year for frayed wires or excessive wear.
• Try not to use more than 3 holiday light strands.

Always remember, in the unfortunate event your home suffers a Christmas tree fire you can always call SERVPRO Pasadena North 24/7 even on Christmas! (626)283-5875

Rose Bowl Parade

11/16/2021 (Permalink)

Rose Bowl Parade PASADENA

With everyone's favorite parade coming up right around the corner we need to remember to all do our part to keep everyone and the building safe.

Every year hundreds of people gather around to enjoy the beautiful Rose Bowl Parade to celebrate the new year. With smiles on everyone's faces and joy all over, we tend to forget about all the hard work people put into making such a memorable day.

Let's do our part in keeping the event safe.

For those working the event:

1. Make sure all facilities are well maintained, restrooms, sinks, kitchens, and various plumbing lines.
2. Be sure to call SERVPRO of Pasadena North in the unfortunate event of a fire, water, or sewage damage.

For those coming to enjoy the event:

1. With COVID-19 still around, please keep 6 feet of distance
2. Do not smoke or throw cigarettes near flowers, plants, or hillside
3. Do not litter - as littering can be a health hazard.

Be Thanksgiving Ready!

11/15/2021 (Permalink)

Thanksgiving only comes around once a year, make this one a memorable one! (For the right reasons) There are things that can make it a bad memory and that is a FIRE! 

Turkey fires are the most likely causes of disasters on Thanksgiving. Whether it be an oven roasted turkey or a deep fried one, something can go wrong!

That is exactly what happened to our customer during the holiday season. Where they left the turkey in the oven for much longer than needed, at a much higher setting than one normally would do. This caused the oven to over heat, blowing smoke throughout the kitchen leaving a trail of soot on the walls, cabinets, and ceilings. Luckily our SERVPRO crew arrived quickly giving the customer peace of mind that there home was in good hands.

The Type of Water Damages

11/15/2021 (Permalink)

Understanding the types of water damages can help decided what type of clean up services you would need! In the unfortunate case of seeing your home flood with water SERVPRO will be there to help! 

The three type of waters that cause damage:

• Clean Water
• Grey Water
• Black Water

1.) Clean Water: can come from broken pipes and water supply lines, sinks and overflowed bathtubs, appliance issues

2.) Grey Water: water from appliances like toilets, washing machines, and sump pump backups. 

3.) Black Water: is the most extreme kind of water damage and requires immediate action to mitigate serious health risks. Black water can come from sewage, rising flood waters, seawater, as well as river and ground water

With SERVPRO in your corner you do not need to worry, we will identify the problem and get started on repairs immediately. 

Protect Your Home

10/25/2021 (Permalink)

While in any case, we can not control the weather, but we can do our best to protect our homes. In most cases rain storms always damage sidings and the roof. 

Here are a few tips to follow:

• Replace missing or damaged shingles 
• Repair loose sidings
• Update current insurance 
• Keep your gutters clear
• Ensure water can flow away from your home
• Properly seal doors and windows
• Regularly trim your trees
• Keep a generator on hand

If all else fails, SERVPRO is always here to help 24/7 to come and repair water damages. Our team of water experts can help ease the stress of loss to your valuables. 

SERVPRO will be able to extract water that has come in after a storm and help make things as if it never even happened.

Commercial Leaks

10/25/2021 (Permalink)

Leaks from old pipping, damaged roofs and other overlooked areas can cause unwanted water damage that can go unnoticed for an extended period of time. Attempting to clean up water from a leak on your own can lead to further damage or contamination if not handled properly. Our technicians are highly trained professionals that specialize in water mitigation, so trust us, you are in good hands. We will walk you through every step of the way and keep you updated as we progress. Water damages can happen at anytime, that's why it's always good to know that there is someone that can be there for you no matter what time a day it. SERVPRO of Pasadena North is open 24-hours, 7 days a week.

Restroom Horror Stories

10/21/2021 (Permalink)

With spooky season right around the corner so are Halloween parties! You gather up all your closest friends, get your best costumes ready, and prepare the alcohol station for the adults! Halloween is the best time for adults to act like kids again and have a great time, but don't forget about that restroom!

You're having a fun time with your friends, drinking and dancing the night away that you don't even realize the long line outside the restroom! 

It's the next morning and you've woken up to water all over your living room floor. Where is this coming from? THE RESTROOM! You realize you have a BACKED UP TOILET and footprints all over the floor. So instinctually you try your best to stop the flooding by using your plunger but that doesn't work! 

What do you do now?

Call SERVPRO of Pasadena North!

We specialize in making your disasters "Like it never even happened."

Keep Your Home Safe From Halloween Fires

10/21/2021 (Permalink)

Halloween time is one of the most fun times of the year for children and adults! Pumpkin carving is a staple of this holiday but BE WARE of possible fire hazards from these fun but dangerous festivities.

Here are some tips to keep your home safe this year:

• Swap out the old fashioned fire candle to light up your Jack-O-Lantern with battery powered candles or glow sticks
• If you do end up using fire candles please keep them away from any drought tolerant pants or fires.
• For the trick-or-treating children: teach them to stay away from lit pumpkins, do not kick them or move them in anyway
• Use a flashlight when out getting your sweet treats!

According to the National Fire Protecting Association (nfpa.org) 

• • From 2014-2018, an average of 770 home structure fires began with decorations per year. 
  • More than two of every five (44%) of these fires occurred because the decorations were too close to a heat source, such as a candle or hot equipment.
  • More than one-third (36%) of these fires were started by candles.
  • More than one-fifth (22%) of the decoration fires started in the kitchen; 16% began in the living room.

Source: NFPA Applied Research

For more tips on Halloween safety visit; https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/Fire-causes-and-risks/Seasonal-fire-causes/Halloween

Sewage Loss at Commercial Building

10/20/2021 (Permalink)

Sewage Loss at Commercial Building

This loss was caused by a sewage backup that originated from a floor drain in the janitor's closet. The water migrated to a vacant office adjacent to where it started, and it also seeped through the flooring, affecting a kitchen and hallway in the lower level. Our SERVPRO technicians, who are trained and certified, arrived onsite and quickly assessed and addressed the situation. The first step in dealing with a sewage backup is extracting all standing water. Following the extraction of all water, any porous materials that is affected must be disposed of. Carpet, walls, and contents are a few examples of materials that need to be discarded. Using dehumidifiers and air filtration devices, We facilitate dry down of the structure and  minimize further contamination. This process may take anywhere from 3 to 5 days, but this job specifically, reached our drying goal in only 3 days. Make sure to contact your local professionals at SERVPRO of Pasadena North, to feel confident that every issue, regarding sewage backups, is taken care of.

If a water or fire damage ever happens in your home or place in business, call us for a free inspection at (626) 447-4111. Our team at SERVPRO of Pasadena North are more that glad to lend a hand.

Will You be Prepared When Disaster Strikes?

10/20/2021 (Permalink)

No one ever expects to experience water damage in their home or place of business. Unfortunately, disasters happen when you least expect them. At SERVPRO of Pasadena North we understand that water damage can be stressful on you and your family. That is why we do our best to take that pressure off of you, by providing you with an Emergency Ready Profile.

You do not except a pipe to burst in your home or place of business. However, you can be proactive and stay prepared in the event that it does. At SERVPRO of Pasadena North we can help you in your efforts of staying prepared by providing you with a FREE Emergency Ready Profile.   

What is a  SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile?

The SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile is designed to provide you with all the critical information needed in order to begin mitigation and recovery services. 

The advantages of having an Emergency Ready Profile are:

1. A no cost assessment of your facility or home. (FREE)
2. An easy access profile document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency.
3. A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster.
4. Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin. (HOA ,property managers, insurance agents, etc...)
5. Provides facility details such as shut-off valve location, priority areas and priority contact information.    

So now is the time to let us help you prepare for a disaster. 

For more information please call SERVPRO of Pasadena North at (626) 447-4111.

SERVPRO is Here To Help!

10/13/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Pasadena Hard at Work

When it comes to safety protocols SERVPRO of Pasadena North is always on top of it! We know that right now we are living in uncertain times and safety is a huge factor in our business. Ever since COVID-19 hit us hard in March 2020 we have up'd our protocols and cleaning precautions. 

In this photo you can see some of our highly trained technicians preparing for a pack out job for one of our clients. When the pandemic first hit all we knew what that we wanted our clients to feel safe and secure that the technicians wring on their homes would not bring in any outside germs. So we geared up in our haz-mat suits and got to work!

Everyday the protocols are changing and SERVPRO has always been ahead of the sanitization game!

Clean your building the SERVPRO way!

10/8/2021 (Permalink)

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned

Cleaning and disinfecting your building after coming back from the time off when COVID first hit can be scary! As America's #1 clean up and restoration brand we have come up with a fundamental process called Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned. This process consists of what we call the 3 C's- Consult, Clean, Certify.

• Consult: Each and every business is different in it's own ways, we will take the time to understand the specific needs for your business.
• Clean: Now based on the consultation, an expert deep clean is initiated using our proprietary EPA-approved, hospital-grade cleaning solutions and always adhering to CDC standards.
• Certify: Once the entire cleaning and disinfecting has been completed you're business becomes Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned! The public will know that your business has taken the time to get certified, which represents their commitment to comfort and security of their employees, customers and community.

Are you interested in getting Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned? Contact us today at (626) 447-4111

https://www.SERVPROpasadenanorth.com/?utm_medium=yext&utm_source=gmb&y_source=1_MTYxOTUwNTYtNzE1LWxvY2F0aW9uLmdvb2dsZV93ZWJzaXRlX292ZXJyaWRl

Step by step fire help

10/8/2021 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO we understand how devastating a fire can be at your home and that's why we are here to help! Once the fire is put out, here are a few tips on what you can do while you wait for our SERVPRO team to arrive!

• Contact - Call your insurance company
• Avoid - try to avoid the effected areas to prevent cross contamination
• RELAX - step outside with a cup of coffee and wait until our professionals arrive 

Once your SERVPRO Heroes arrive they will:

1. Inspect the property for soot and smoke damage
2. Check for any moisture in the structure
3. Arrange for garment restoration (dry clean & launder soft goods)
4. Inspect attic, insulation, and HVAC ducting
5. Install negative air machines to filter the air using HEPA filters.
6. Provide any emergency board up or tarping services 

Of course we work directly with your insurance company before proceeding with any of the above services!

Here to Help!

9/17/2021 (Permalink)

We understand how stressful dealing with a new water, fire, mold or sewage damage can be. We are happy to take that headache away from you and help you understand the process from start to finish. 

Typical Water Damage Process:

1. Intake - Here’s where we ask you all the questions related to your property and water damage. Contact info, Insurance claim number, cause of loss, affected areas and any other important information
2. Scheduling - During intake we schedule an initial appointment with you based on your availability. Our goal is to arrive at an emergency situation within one hour of your phone call. 
3. Inspection/Arrival Date - When the loss is an emergency, our crew will extract water and clean up affected areas immediately. We will assess the damages starting from the cause of loss. We will take moisture readings, photos and measurements of all affected areas and document the scope of work to be performed. 
4. Insurance Approval - We take all the information gathered during the initial visit and send it to your insurance for coverage confirmation and approval to proceed. 
5. Demolition (if necessary) - When demolition is required, we gain approval first and schedule a crew to perform the removal of affected and damaged material
6. Dry Out - Upon completion of demolition, equipment is reset to dry out the framing materials of your property. 
7. Completion - Once all materials have reached a drying goal, we do a final clean up of the areas, pick up equipment and document the moisture readings. We gather that information again and provide everything to your insurance for final billing. 

Our office staff is highly trained and experienced to walk you through this process every step of the way.

Trauma & Crime Scene Cleanup

9/16/2021 (Permalink)

Trauma and Crime Scene Cleanup are some of the services we provide here at SERVPRO of Pasadena North. During these types of events, our crews will always treat you and your property with the utmost respect and empathy. We understand that this type of experience may be overwhelming. 

Our crews are experienced and educated to follow OSHA and EPA protocols to property cleanup after many different types of Trauma or Crime Scenes. They can vary anywhere from Bloodborne pathogen cleanup, Fire Extinguisher Residue cleanup to Maijuana Grow House cleanups. Whatever the situation may be, we will take a proper evaluation of the property and decide which is the best cleanup method to bring you back to a clean, safe and healthy home or business.  

Give us a call for more information on how we can help you! We are available 24/7 for emergencies at 626-447-4111.

Virtual Tour with SERVPRO

9/15/2021 (Permalink)

With so many of us working from home or remotely, virtual tours and inspections have become a vital part of our everyday lives. SERVPRO of Pasadena North uses Matterport to help simplify the inspection, mitigation and reconstruction process! Matterport is a 360 camera and software that allows us to capture detailed photos of your property. 

By using Matterport, we are able to scan the property and piece them together to create a virtual tour. The virtual tour becomes available for us to share with you and your insurance adjuster. Some homeowners may not live at the property affected by a water or fire loss and Matterport helps us show you, as the homeowner, the damages found at the loss site. It also allows us to share those details with your insurance adjuster, as they may not be available for an in-person walk through. 

Matterport has given our franchise the opportunity to provide our customers with a complete look at their property from start to finish.

Mold Left Unchecked

9/14/2021 (Permalink)

Bedroom Mold Growth

When water damage grows into mold, it becomes an overwhelming issue for a homeowner. Even the smallest of water damages can turn into mold like you see here, when left unchecked. It is extremely important to be sure when a water damage occurs to have it properly mitigated in order to prevent damages like this from happening. 

Not only are high levels of mold toxic to our health, it also creates structural damages to our property. Mold can rot out wood studs or ceiling joists and potentially compromise the support they provide. 

SERVPRO of Pasadena North understands the importance and value of your property, which is why we take every precaution to prevent mold from growing in our customer’s home. By quickly responding to water damages we can mitigate the damages and get our customer’s back into a healthy environment. 

Our technicians are certified in Applied Microbial Remediation by the IICRC and have several years of experience in Mold Remediation. 

Feel free to contact SERVPRO of Pasadena North at 626-447-4111 for more information on how we can help you with your mold remediation.

Catastrophic damages from Hurricane Ida

8/30/2021 (Permalink)

Flooded Street in Louisiana

Hurricane season has hit Louisiana hard this week! 

Hurricane Ida has caused catastrophic damage to roads, homes and families in Louisiana. Over 1 million residents are without power at this point and have no idea when to expect lines to be repaired. According to CNN, the National Guard has been dispatched to assist with search and rescue efforts. The American Red Cross has also opened several shelters for those who have lost their homes. We are very grateful to those risking their lives and providing their assistance to those who need it the most right now. 

SERVPRO Storm Team has also activated our strongest franchises nationwide to assist with disaster cleanup in the area. Our thoughts and prayers are with the residents of Louisiana and the cleanup and rescue crews working tirelessly. 

For live updates on Hurricane Ida visit: https://www.cnn.com/us/live-news/ida-updates-08-30-21/index.html

SERVPRO Storm Travel

8/30/2021 (Permalink)

Keep it Green!

Did you know SERVPRO Storm Teams travel across the United States to assist overwhelmed local franchises when catastrophic events occur?

Our teams have traveled to: 

• New Mexico 2011- Pipe Freeze

• New Jersey 2011- Hurricane Irene 
• New York 2012- Hurricane Sandy 
• Washington DC 2012- Mid-Atlantic Freeze  
• Oregon 2013- Pipe Freeze 
• Iowa 2014- Flooding

• Ohio 2014- Flooding 

• Kentucky 2014- Pipe Freeze 

• Santa Barbara 2017- Thomas Wildfire

• Ventura County, CA 2018 - Woosley Wildfire
• San Antonio, TX 2021 - Pipe Freeze

As leaders in the water mitigation industry, we have advanced training and expertise. In addition, our crews have a tremendous amount of hands-on experience. We use our training and experience to quickly dry your home and restore it back to its pre-storm condition. 

Our crews come well equipped with all the resources necessary to clean up after any disaster. Teaming up with our SERVPRO Storm Teams provides us with the advantage of unlimited resources. We understand that the community hit with a catastrophe may not be prepared to handle the overwhelming responsibility of cleaning up, which is why we are here to help! 

Wildfire Season is Upon Us

8/25/2021 (Permalink)

Wildfire in California

Wildfire season is upon us here in California and we must be prepared. The rising heat conditions we face along with our drought, make us prone to suffer major wildfires. Preparation is key to reducing the risks of damages to our home and business. We may not be able to prevent a wildfire, but we are responsible for making sure our families and home are prepared when it does happen.

Preparation steps such as the following can help keep your family safe during a wildfire:

• Hardening your home: maintaining landscape and removing dry weeds, remove debris from roofs, install dual pane windows, install screens, use ignition-resistant materials, etc…
• Create an Emergency Kit: equipped with first aid kits, flashlights, battery powered radio, important documents, water supply, sanitation supplies, etc…
• Create an Action Plan: such as, escape routes, designated meeting locations, evacuation plan for pets, etc..

These are just a few of several ways to be prepared for a wildfire. For more information visit: https://www.readyforwildfire.org/prepare-for-wildfire/

Sewage Cleanup

8/25/2021 (Permalink)

Sewage water loss, before clean up

Sewage clean up is a large part of the services we provide to our customers. Sewage back ups can occur at any given moment, especially when drain pipes are not properly maintained.

In residential properties, the main cause of a sewage back up are toilet lines clogged with papers and sanitary items. In older homes, we notice that sewage drain lines may be corroded or have tree roots growing through, which causes the line to back up.

Homeowners should take precautions by maintaining clear plumbing lines to prevent a back up from occurring. We understand that sudden bursts or back ups happen, which is why our team is properly trained to clean, sanitize and mitigate after such losses. The water that results from a sewage back up is considered to be contaminated water, as it may carry various types of bacteria. For that reason, we ensure that the affected areas are disinfected of any residue and that porous materials are properly disposed of. In the event you experience a water loss, we have crews on call 24/7 to address your needs. You can reach us anytime at 626-447-4111.

Tennessee Flash Flood

8/25/2021 (Permalink)

Flooded Street in Tennessee

The city of Waverly, Tennessee has suffered a tremendous loss from the flash flood that occurred on Saturday, August 21, 2021. According to CNN, the flash flood has killed 21 residents and damaged several infrastructures, schools and homes.

Our hearts and prayers go out to the families in Tennessee who have lost loved ones, friends and their homes. We cannot imagine the pain felt in their town at this time. The damages caused by the flood are devastating and we hope to see Tennessee recover from this. We admire how strong the community is and we are hopeful that they will get through this difficult time.

SERVPRO headquarters is located in Gallatin, Tennessee and our thoughts are also with the family members of our fellow SERVPRO teams.

For more information on the flash flood, visit CNN’s website:

https://www.cnn.com/2021/08/23/us/tennessee-fatal-flooding-monday/index.html

SERVPRO #1 Choice

7/9/2021 (Permalink)

Any homeowner must be diligent when faced with water damage, which is where restoration professionals come in handy. Returning to your property after a catastrophe can be an exhausting process without the assistance of a trained, licensed and professional team. 

We follow specific IICRC Guidelines to mitigate water damage in your home. Our team at SERVPRO of Arcadia helps you work through these steps to ensure that the cleanup and restoration process flows smoothly. We always encourage homeowners and business owners to contact us directly when they are faced with any type of catastrophic loss to their property. Our team can get to work immediately, taking an evaluation of the damage, moisture mapping and assessing the scope of work to be performed in order to get the cleanup underway. The longer the exposure the structural materials have to moisture or other damages, the more deterioration and decay take place.

With our initial assessment, SERVPRO of Pasadena North gathers the information that helps your insurance company approve your damage claim in a timely fashion. 

Why SERVPRO? 

Our technicians at SERVPRO of Pasadena North go through extensive training to understand all the best methods for emergency damage cleanup and disaster restoration. They are certified and licensed by the IICRC, which is our restoration guidelines. We work to save you from costly replacements and potential secondary damages. Our team here at SERVPRO of Pasadena North use proprietary methods of the latest tools, products, and technology.

OPEN DURING COVID-19

4/1/2020 (Permalink)

Remaining Open during the COVID-19 Pandemic

We would like to give a huge THANK YOU to all the medical professionals fighting the COVID-19 battle on the front lines. They are risking their lives for the health of the American people and we cannot thank them enough!

We understand that during this time of uncertainty things are very tough and we want to ensure our customers and clients that we are here for them! As leaders in the emergency restoration and clean up industry, our team specializes in responding to disasters in your homes and businesses. 

We are taking extra precautions to ensure the health and safety of our customers and employees. Our crews have been instructed to disinfect all equipment before and after each visit, wear a clean pair of gloves at each job and limit on site visits to only the essential services. 

Please feel free to contact our lines anytime to ask further questions on the precautions we are taking or on the services we provide. We are open 24/7 to answer your questions. 

Take care and be safe!

Hoarding is a Serious Situation

3/5/2020 (Permalink)

According to The Mayo Clinic, “Hoarding disorder is a persistent difficulty discarding or parting with possessions because of a perceived need to save them. A person with hoarding disorder experiences distress at the thought of getting rid of the items. Excessive accumulation of items, regardless of actual value, occurs.” Many people with hoarding disorder do not find their habits to be a problem. Hoarded items are often things others would throw away or look at as junk or garbage such as old newspapers, junk mail, or packaging.

Hoarding can lead to homes filled with extreme clutter to full capacity from years of accumulation, making living conditions unsanitary and crowded. Bugs, fleas, rats, and other vermin may be present, at which point an exterminator would need to be called. At times, hoarding may spread to outside the home as well, to storage facilities, or even the garage or yard.

SERVPRO of Pasadena North encounters hoarding situations several different ways. Often, we are called for a fire or water loss and find the hoarding situation when they arrive on-site. We will communicate with the insurance company regarding their contents coverage, and after approval, contents can be packed out and possibly cleaned, dried, and stored by the SERVPRO of Pasadena North or relocated to a storage facility so work on the fire or water loss can begin.
Another way we encounter hoarding jobs is through calls from landlords, case workers, real estate agents, or family members, often after the death of a loved one. In these situations, the crew will see if they should look for any items of importance while they clean the job. Sometimes family members will come and try to help the hoarder sort through their contents as well.

Each case is very different, and hoarding jobs are often sensitive situations, but SERVPRO of Pasadena North is here to help make it “Like it never even happened.” If you encounter a hoarding situation at one of your properties or with your insureds, call  SERVPRO of Pasadena North today.

24-Hour Emergency STORM TEAM

2/25/2020 (Permalink)

Our STORM TEAM is currently on multiple job sites in regards to the recent Southern California Fires. We have highly trained technicians ready to be sent wherever they need to be. As a home owner, we advise you to be aware of the mud slides that can come with heavy rain, due to the aftermath of the fires. If you look at the videos on our website you can see how close the fire got to the homes. Through experience and knowledge about fire restoration we highly recommend you consult with an environmental consultant to test for soot and then call SERVPRO of Pasadena North for the cleanup if need be. Keep in mind that we are a 24-hour emergency service company. Please give us a call at (626) 447-4111 to set up an appointment for your free estimate.

Buckled Floor

2/25/2020 (Permalink)

Caring for hard wood and laminate flooring can be difficult at times. You must limit the amount of water used when mopping the surface of the floor and you should immediately clean up any spills that may occur. One of the reasons it is important to avoid any type of liquid, is because leaving a liquid on the surface for an extended period of time can lead to “buckling” also known as “edge-warping. Floor “buckling” or edge- warping” is very noticeable. You can tell that a floor has buckled when you begin to notice a rugged or bumpy feeling as you walk or feel the floor.

Ways to prevent floor “buckling”

• Limit water usage when wiping or mopping the floor
• Clean spills immediately
• Avoid using cleaning products that can saturate the floor
• Do not place plants that must be watered on a daily basis on the floor
• Be cautious of pets urinating on the floor

Cleanup and Restoration Services

2/25/2020 (Permalink)

Did you know that SERVPRO of Pasadena North is prepared to handle any kind of disaster? We want the business and homeowners to know that our highly trained specialists are on hand to take care of your emergency cleanup and restoration needs. We are a trusted leader in the restoration industry and have years of experience serving our community. Our ability to immediately respond to your emergency helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs. We also can help manage the insurance paperwork and process. Here are some of the residential and commercial services we provide:

• Water damage cleanup and restoration
• Mold remediation and mitigation services
• Sewage cleanup
• Storm damage
• Building services
• Commercial water damage cleanup and restoration
• Fire damage cleanup and restoration
• Carpet and upholstery cleaning
• Odor removal
• Biohazard removal
• Disaster Recovery Team

If you find yourself dealing with the aftermath of any of these disasters, SERVPRO of Pasadena North wants to help. We are available 24 hours a day and our highly trained technicians have the specialized equipment necessary to safely clean and restore damage for residents and business owners. Call us today at (626) 447-4111 to find out about our cleanup and restoration services. We’ll take care of your damage “Like it never even happened.”

A Home Fire Damage Is Never Easy To Handle

2/24/2020 (Permalink)

This Arcadia, California homeowner suffered fire and smoke damage in their garage. An electrical malfunction started the dryer fire. The area of the garage surrounding the dryer became covered in soot and smoke residue. The fire was taken out quickly with the use of a fire extinguisher, quick thinking on the homeowner’s behalf.

Fire damage leaves behind odors, smoke residue and soot which can be challenging for the homeowner to clean. By calling SERVPRO of Pasadena North, the homeowner was at ease knowing the cleanup was being professional managed.

When you are faced with a fire disaster, remember SERVPRO of Pasadena North is by your side. We are have technicians that operate 24/7. Call SERVPRO of Pasadena North in your time of need at (626) 447-4111.

We can make it “Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO Storm Team

2/24/2020 (Permalink)

Our heart and prayers go out to those who were effected by the recent wildfires in Southern California. Such catastrophic events can leave many feeling hopeless and confused on what to do next. Be cautious of soot, smoke and ash damage that may have risen, as a part of the aftermath from the fires. If your home or business were near any of the fires, your property may have been afflicted. We here at SERVPRO Pasadena North, are apart of a Storm Team that specializes in emergency restoration when events like this occur. Storm Teams are comprised of multiple SERVPRO franchises, all of which share the same goal of getting the home/business owner back to their home/business as quickly as possible. We can ensure that you receive the highest standard of customer service, to help make the transition of restoring your home as smooth as possible.

No Loss Is Too Big! We Can Handle It!

2/20/2020 (Permalink)

This facility contains multiple buildings that are rented out by other Universities. We received the call from the facility after normal business hours. Immediately, we assembled a crew, gathered equipment and got on the site, within the hour of the initial phone call. It is essential to get there as soon as possible, so that we can take control of the situation and minimize the damage. As a reminder to those who own large commercial buildings.  SERVPRO of Pasadena North specializes in large commercial losses, water mitigation and dehumidification. Don’t wait! If you are in need of our services for any situation, please pick up the phone and dial (626) 447-4111, and will send our certified crew immediately. We are always here to help.

Large Commercial Losses - Our Specialty!

2/20/2020 (Permalink)

Remember, our SERVPRO crews are ready to assist in all and any circumstances for water and fire damage. No matter how large or small the damage may be, we here at SERVPRO of Pasadena North are confident that our team can get the job done! Our most recent project takes place at the Westfield Mall located in Arcadia, Ca. Large commercial jobs like this, have to be dealt with extreme caution due to the high volume of foot traffic that flows in and out of the mall. Whenever our technicians are on the field,  they take into consideration the environment they are working in, so that they can figure out how they need to approach each job. Every job is different and unique in its own way. Especially when dealing with large commercial losses. Staying one step ahead of the operation allows us to provide the best quality work.

Restore vs. Replace

1/22/2020 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Pasadena North we strive to, "Restore vs Replace" whenever possible. One of the ways we achieve this is by drying in place. Instead of removing hardwood flooring that has sustained water damage, we use the Floor Mat System to quickly and effectively dry the affected material.

When water seeps into hardwood flooring if not addressed immediately and properly, this will result in floor buckling. The next steps of drying the hardwood floor are crucial because this determines whether or not we can salvage the floor.To avoid this from occurring we place drying floor mats and tent the affected area with our state of the art drying equipment. 

The benefits of having our equipment set up as soon as possible allows for us to restore instead of replace. Our goal at SERVPRO is to leave it, "Like it never even happened."

Fire Safety Tips-A Must Read

1/22/2020 (Permalink)

The National Fire Protection Agency reported that in 2016, there were 1,342,000 fires reported in the United States. These fires caused 3,390 civilian deaths, 14,650 civilian injuries, and $10.6 billion in property damage.

Some accidental fires that occur are most commonly caused by:

• Cooking Equipment
• Heating
• Smoking in bedrooms
• Electrical Equipment
• Candles
• Curious Children
• Faulty Wiring
• Barbecues

That is why we strongly recommend taking full precautions, in order  to keep your loved ones and property safe at all times. Here are some helpful tips:

1. Never leave the kitchen unattended, when stove is on. Keep close watch of pots and pans that can quickly overheat and can potentially ignite a fire.
2. Make sure heating equipment wiring is in good condition and have it maintenance yearly. Place heater at least one meter away from any objects and furniture.
3. Avoid smoking indoors. Not only is smoking a health hazard but it is also dangerous to do so indoors.
4. Make sure all electrical equipment is functioning properly and all cords are intact.
5. Never leave candles unattended especially around small children. Always remember to turn candles off after every use.
6. Children can be very curious, it is important to keep them safe by removing any flammable substances from their reach.
7. Replace faulty or damaged wiring.
8. Extinguish barbecue grill flames after every use.

You Can Never Be Too Safe

1/21/2020 (Permalink)

A fire can happen on your property at any time. We here at SERVPRO of Pasadena North provide around the clock services 7 days a week. If you need us, we'll be there. What separates us from other restoration companies is that, when we receive the call from you we immediately assemble a work crew and send them your way. As a SERVPRO employee, our priorities are to ensure the job is done right the first time and consistently update our client on the progress of the job. The reason we do this, is because more often than not your home is the biggest investment you make. Therefore, we do everything in our power to ensure the customers happiness and leaving it, "Like it never even happened."

Are You Covered?

1/20/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Pasadena North get's a lot of questions about insurance and if a loss is covered. Our staff is fully trained to know how to answer these questions. We are not insurance agents, but we have a lot of experience with several different types of claims over our 35 years in business. Each claim is treated individually. We take our time getting all the information about the loss and determining what the best course of action would be. We walk people through each step of the way. 

Now for important tips for your insurance policy:

1. Confirm you have an endorsement for sewer backup coverage. Sewer backups cause more damage than a regular water damage. As a restoration company, we also have to protect our employees with personal protective equipment, which includes additional charges as well.
2. If you own an older home or building, make sure you have code upgrade insurance god forbid something happens that you need to upgrade your entire electrical system or plumbing system. Both systems can become extremely costly, so for a little bit extra a month in insurance, it is worth it. 
3. Additional Living Expense (ALE) is what is used if you have to move out of your house for a while to get the home rebuilt after any type of damage. ALE is used for hotels, food, or even a long term rental home. As you can imagine, this can become very pricey as well. 
4. If you are renting, have renters insurance, especially if you are in a multi-unit facility. You may never believe you will have a loss, but what if your neighbor falls asleep with a pan on the stove and it catches fire. Your entire apartment's contents may be non-salvageable. Your renter's insurance is what pays you back for your contents.
5. When going to get renters insurance, be realistic on the price range of all of your personal belongings. Remember all the small items, as well. One bottle of spice is $3, but if you have 100 of them, that is $300. The money accumulates quickly, so do not skimp on the insurance. 
6. There are things in life you can get for cheap, insurance should not be one of them. Take your time, find the best agent, and get the right coverage. 

SERVPRO of Pasadena North is here to help with any questions you may have. 

Commercial Water Loss

1/20/2020 (Permalink)

We received a call from a valued customer who had experienced significant amount of water damage. The cause of this loss was due to a break in the kitchen supply line which comes directly down from the upstairs break room. The water began to seep through the sub floor and eventually made its way to multiple offices. SERVPRO of Pasadena North was onsite in under an hour and immediately started extracting water. The following day our crew was onsite continuing the demolition of affected walls and flooring. Our next phase will consist of allowing the structure to dry with the help our dehumidifiers and air movers. This will prepare the building for the reconstruction phase. At the end of the day we helped put this customer back in business leaving it, "Like it never even happened."

Welcome to SERVPRO of Pasadena North

1/20/2020 (Permalink)

Welcome to SERVPRO of Pasadena North's blog page.

We will share helpful tips and inform you about our services and community events.

We take pride in being a part of the community and want to do our part in making Pasadena the best it can be. We stride to provide excellent customer service and take care of YOU in the moments you need it most. 

SERVPRO of Pasadena North has many upcoming events that we will be blogging about for example; the Taste of Arcadia which is hosted by the Arcadia Chamber of Commerce. We will also be a part of the Emergency Preparedness Fair hosted by the Pasadena Kaiser Permanente. We will be along side the American Red Cross, Local Fire & Police Departments and other organizations helping the community take the necessary steps toward emergency readiness.

Flooded Basement

1/17/2020 (Permalink)

A homeowner in Pasadena, CA called SERVPRO concerning a water loss due to a fire sprinkler pipe that broke. As a result, four feet of water flooded the basement, affected the walls and content that were also in the basement. Our SERVPRO technicians knew exactly what to do. We first endured the customer that we had everything under control and we restore all content and completely dry out the basement. We did exactly that! Extracting the water comes first, we must then cut and dry the walls to make sure there is no moisture left, because then mold can start to grow. While the walls are being dried, we move onto to the contents. The contents were papers that had value to the homeowner. With extreme caution and the right equipment, we were able to restore all the content with out destroying it.

SERVPRO of Pasadena North just wants to remind you that we do water remediation services as well as content drying. 

The Trusty Pack-Out

1/17/2020 (Permalink)

One of the most challenging times you may experience, is when your home or business is affected by a water damage. As difficult as it may be during a time like this, you can count on your local SERVPRO of Pasadena North heroes to save the day. Depending on the size or extent of the damage caused by the water loss, we may be obligated to remove all the contents from the affected area. The process begins by taking a detailed inventory of your items with photos to ensure that all your items are documented. After all your items are inventoried, it is then brought back to our facilities where they are stored. You can trust our professional staff to pack, inventory, and store your contents in our warehouse facility.

Faulty Fire Sprinkler System

1/17/2020 (Permalink)

Imagine coming home after being on vacation with the family just to be given this horrible surprise! Well, that's exactly what happened to our customer. This loss was caused by a faulty fire sprinkler system. To make matters worse the homeowner had just purchased the home prior to leaving to their destination however, they acted swiftly and contacted us. Our crew was able to be onsite within the hour of being notified of the loss and quickly jumped into action.

With the home having high moisture levels, our crew was able to effectively dry the structure within 5 days. By doing so we were able to save the structure from experiencing secondary damage such as mold. We at SERVPRO of Pasadena North do our best to achieve the industry standard of  drying within 3-5 days.

Not All Heroes Wear Capes

1/16/2020 (Permalink)

1. We are a 24-Hour Emergency Response Team

SERVPRO of Arcadia professionals will help limit the damage and get your facility back in operation QUICKLY! We have a 1-4-8 Service Response Guideline : 

• Within 1 hour from the notice of loss SERVPRO of Arcadia will contact you to arrange for service.

• Within 4 hours SERVPRO of Arcadia Professionals will be on-site to start mitigation services. 

• Within 8 business hours SERVPRO of Arcadia would have a verbal briefing of the scope.

2.  Communication 

SERVPRO of Arcadia will keep you informed from start to finish. 

3. Reduce Recovery Time

By arriving quickly and mitigating the damage to the structure and contents. We provide effective cleanup and restoration services. SERVPRO of Arcadia will help you reopen the doors as soon as possible to get you back in business.

4. Lower Recovery Costs 

We help you save money!  Our quick response helps minimize secondary damage at your property which saves you thousands. 

5. Emergency Response Profile 

SERVPRO of Arcadia helps you plan for recovery before a disaster strikes!  (See our other blog on "Getting Prepared" for more information) 

6. Full Line of Services 

 Restoration:

• Fire, Smoke and Soot Cleanup and Restoration

• Water Removal and Humidification 

• Mold Mitigation and Remediation

• Catastrophic Storm Response 

• Move Outs & Contents Restoration 

• Contents Claim Inventory Service

Cleaning: 

• Ceilings, Walls and Hard Floors

• Deodorization

• Bio-hazard and Crime Scene

• Vandalism 

7. A National Leader in Storm Response 

We help when you need it the most! 

SERVPRO is a national restoration company your clients and tenants know and trust!

Always Be Prepared

1/16/2020 (Permalink)

Experiencing fire damage can be a very stressful situation. The leading cause of fires in a home or business most commonly occur when cooking or smoking. Fires can also caused by heating units and/or electrical issues. 

After any fire damage, your primary focus should be safety:

• Is it safe to stay in the home?

• Electrical hazards are some of the most prevalent concerns.

• Only do activities that are safe for you to perform.

 Things you should do after a fire and smoke damage:

• Limit the movements in your home after a fire damage to prevent soot particles from spreading damage to upholstery and carpet. 

• Keep your hands clean.

• Place dry towels on rugs, upholstery and carpet in high traffic areas.

• If you turn off the electricity completely empty the refrigerator and prop doors open. 

• To prevent soot from sticking to chrome on kitchen/bathroom faucets or fixtures protect them by applying a small amount of petroleum jelly or oil. 

• Change HVAC filter

• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers to stop particles of soot from getting in or out the HVAC system.

No one ever expects to experience a fire, but if it does occur you can count on SERVPRO of Pasadena North. Our technicians are well trained to cleanup and restore your home and/or business. We are available 24-hours 7 days a week to help you get your life back together. 

Key tips to guide you through the aftermath of a fire.

1/16/2020 (Permalink)

A fire in your home or business can be very devastating. After the fire trucks leave, your property will likely suffer from fire/smoke damage and also a widespread water damage from firefighting efforts.  Here are some tips what to do after the fire.

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpets.
• Place clean towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas.
• If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator and prop doors open.
• Clean and protect chrome with light coating of petroleum jelly or oil.
• Wash houseplants on both sides of leaves.
• Change HVAC filter.
• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers.

Call the professionals at SERVPRO of Pasadena North to get the damage under control. WE are trained to clean and restore your home with as little disruption as possible.

Large Loss at Local Airport

1/16/2020 (Permalink)

This large loss was caused by an overnight storm. Over 12" of water affected nearly 7,000 sq ft. of office space, lobby and break-room areas.

We received the call early Friday morning and within an hour we had a crew on-site. They began the mitigation process by removing carpets, baseboards and cutting walls. Once that phase was complete our crew began the drying process by placing air movers and utilizing our desiccant. We used two generators to minimize any business interruption. After six days, the drying process was completed and ready for reconstruction. 

At SERVPRO of Pasadena North our technicians are all certified and ready to assist with any size damage. We specialize in effective drying procedures with our state of the art equipment. We are a 24-Hour emergency response service. We leave it, "Like it never even happened."

Discovering a Leak

1/15/2020 (Permalink)

Having a leak in your home or business can be very stressful, especially when the leak has gone unnoticed for an extended period of time.

Our technicians here at SERVPRO of Pasadena North have special thermal imaging equipment  that can detect the non-invasive moisture in your home or business. This helps find the main source of the leak without creating unnecessary damage to the structure. 

Water damage that you can not see is the most dangerous because it can spread without your knowledge. Pipes usually aren't exposed, making it difficult to detect when there is a leak.

Trying to identify where the problem is on your own may be difficult, as well as attempting to mitigate the damage without any help from a professional. Here are some tips on what you can do before SERVPRO heroes arrive:

• Shut off the water valve leading to the pipe.

• Stop the leak until you can repair or replace the pipe.

• Turn on the faucets, to drain water left in the pipes.

• Call SERVPRO of North Pasadena (626) 447-4111

Sewage Back Up

1/15/2020 (Permalink)

Sewage is not easy to deal with. If not mitigated properly, there may be excessive damage to your home. Call us!

Toilet overflows can cause significant damages to property, due to the contaminants and toxins that are found in the water. This specific type of water loss must be treated quickly in order to avoid secondary damages or further contamination. For example, secondary damages that can occur from sewage backup is mold. Mold can be toxic and can cause extensive damage to your property. In order to avoid exposure, mold must be removed promptly and properly.

This water loss occurred when the bathroom in the basement’s toilet backed up and overflowed. The water migrated into two bathrooms, elevator and elevator shaft. Our technicians found the source of the problem and immediately started to repair it. We then extracted the water from all the affected areas and dried them out in order to prepare the structure for decontamination process.

Storm Awareness

1/15/2020 (Permalink)

Did you know that floods are the most common natural disaster in the U.S.?

Heavy rainstorms can cause significant flooding, overflowing levees or dams, contributing to flash floods and mudslides. Although, California does not commonly experience heavy rain from time to time. This could potentially put property like your home or business at risk. 

Tips to help avoid flooding for your home or business: 

• Prepare your property by installing rain gutters and other drainage systems. (Clean out rain gutters frequently.)

• Understanding the flood risk in your area and fix any leaks IMMEDIATELY.

• Extra roof protection by investing and installing a rubber roof underlayment (waterproof barrier that goes under the shingles and protects the roof from water intrusion). 

Tips for drivers during the rainy season

• Avoid cruise control (This feature works great in dry conditions, but when used in wet conditions, the chance of losing control of the vehicle can increase).

• When driving, slow down and leave room in front of you (slowing down suddenly during wet conditions is critical and can increase a car’s chance of hydroplaning).

If you do experience flood damage in your home or business SERVPRO of Pasadena North is here to help leave it, "Like it never even happened."

Call us at (626)447-4111

Got Mold?

1/15/2020 (Permalink)

We have certified technicians available to remediate. Call us for an estimate. You will be glad you called.

Believe it or not, you’re exposed to mold every day. Some forms of mold you can see, however there are many that you can’t. Whether it grows on your walls, floor boards or even your shower curtains, mold is an unappealing sight to look at. Some people don’t pay any mind towards the mold and just let it grow. Having mold in your home can cause an issue for health concerns, especially for those who are prone to allergies, asthma, or respiratory conditions. That is why we here at SERVPRO of Pasadena North, have technicians who specialize in mold remediation, so that we can take care of your mold problem. Our crew members take extreme precaution to ensure that we remove every last bit of the mold so you and your loved ones are not affected by it. Mold is our cornerstone. We take it very seriously. 

Commercial Marketing Forum

1/14/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Commercial Marketing Forum

SERVPRO believes in the continuing education of its associates. That is why our local Franchise Trainers create marketing forums where we are able to share each others success stories. 

At this year's marketing forum our guest speaker was Brandon Rohner a SERVPRO Commercial Marketing Consultant. With many years of expertise in the industry. He has been able to assist countless franchises with large losses such as commercial fire/water damage. 

During our forum we focused on ways we can better help our clients prepare for a catastrophic loss. One of the ways we were able to achieve this, is by the SERVPRO Emergency Ready Plan. Its a profile designed to help businesses easily access vital information and key contact phone numbers needed during an emergency. If you own a business and would like to learn more about the SERVPRO Emergency Ready Plan, then please call our Marketing Department at (626) 447- 4111 for assistance.

Communities During Storm

1/14/2020 (Permalink)

With the recent fires in Southern California, the key thing to remember is to not panic. In times like this, staying calm and addressing the problem correctly can go a long way. These wild fires made it from the San Fernando Valley all the way to the hills of Santa Barbara, where our Storm Team and SERVPRO of Pasadena North have been dispatched. They are working diligently to begin the cleanup and restoration process for the properties that have been effected. Our customers have been looking out for each other, by staying in communication to coordinate their schedules and give each other updates on the latest fire status. During times like this, we see how well connected the community is. When our clients are at ease, it means making it “Like it never even happened,” that much easier. We appreciate the patience and great feedback we have received from our customers.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? Contact SERVPRO of Pasadena North (626) 447-4111

Fire, Smoke, Soot, and Ash Cleanup

1/14/2020 (Permalink)

If you’ve ever experienced a home fire, then you know how devastating it can be. A house fire can cause a substantial amount of damage and is something no one should ever have to experience. Not only are they harmful to your home, the aftermath of a fire can also be harmful to your health. However, if a fire were to occur, SERVPRO of Pasadena North specializes in fire cleanup and restoration. 

After a fire has occurred, smoke, ash, soot, and a smoky odor are most likely what’s going to be left behind. We advise you to just sit back and let the professionals handle the situation. Taking matters into your own hands may only make the situation worse and even cause extended health issues. Our crew members here at SERVPRO of Pasadena North are highly trained and know exactly how to treat fire damage after it has occurred.

SERVPRO of Pasadena North is here to help and answer any questions. Call (626) 447-4111, for any concerns you may have about a home fire.

Breaking the Mold

1/14/2020 (Permalink)

Mold Problems

Mold is commonly found in most places in our environment like our homes and we may not even know it. Mold can be a serious problem in your home or business because it can spread quickly.

Is having mold in your home a health hazard?

Yes, mold can cause various health effects. Especially to children, and those with comprised immune systems, such as elderly persons and those with respiratory problems.

What causes mold?

Mold can be caused by a variety of water intrusion problems like a roof leak or leaking water line that is not taken care of. 

 Mold Tips  

To prevent mold you should:

• Reduce moisture levels in your bathroom by running a fan during and after your shower. 
• Increase airflow in your home by opening windows. 
• Fix plumbing issues like leaks to prevent moisture problems and water damage from accruing because water damage is the main source for mold growth. 
• Cleaning, disinfecting and drying surfaces daily.

When dealing with mold in your home it is very important NOT TO:

• Touch or disturb the mold.
• Blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.
• Attempt to dry the area yourself.
• Spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold. 

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact SERVPRO of Pasadena North for mold remediation services at (626) 447-4111

Don't Let Your Halloween Get Moldy!

9/11/2019 (Permalink)

A SERVPRO Halloween

Halloween is around the corner. SERVPRO of Pasadena North would like to share some tips on how to keep your Jack O' Lantern (Pumpkin) from getting moldy fast!                            

Follow these easy steps:

1. After your pumpkin has been carved, rinse it out with water to get rid of excess strings and gunk.
2. Take a large bucket or tub and fill it with three gallons of water.
3. Stir three teaspoons of bleach into the water.
4. Dunk in the pumpkin. 
5. Then you add silica by removing the top of the pumpkin. Take a silica bead and embed it into the interior of the pumpkin. Do not stick the bead in so far that it changes the appearance of the pumpkin's exterior.

Silica packets are largely available with the following items:

• Beef jerky
• Shoes and shoe boxes
• Cat litter 
• Purses or wallets

Christmas Tree Safety

1/11/2019 (Permalink)

Although, Christmas tree fires are not common. When they do occur, they can pose serious damage. Christmas trees can catch fire quickly and spread rapidly throughout the home. Here are some tips on what to do when shopping for a Christmas tree and when placing it at home! 

When picking the tree

• Choose a tree with fresh, green needles that do not fall off when touched.

Placing the tree

• Before placing the tree in the stand, cut 2" from the base of the trunk.
• Make sure the tree is at least three feet away from any heat source, like fireplaces, radiators, candles, heat vents or lights.
• Make sure the tree is not blocking an exit.
• Add water to the tree stand. Be sure to add water daily.

Lighting the tree

• Use lights that have the label of an independent testing laboratory. Some lights are only for indoor or outdoor use.
• Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections. Read manufacturer's instructions for number of light strands to connect. 
• Never use lit candles to decorate the tree.
• Always turn off Christmas tree lights before leaving home or going to bed.

After Christmas

• Dispose of tree after Christmas. Dried-out trees are a fire danger and should not be left in the home or garage, or placed outside against the home.

Check with your local community to find a recycling program. Bring outdoor electrical lights inside after the holidays to prevent hazards and make them last longer! 

Have a Happy and Safe Holiday from SERVPRO of Pasadena North!

New Years SAFETY Tips

1/11/2019 (Permalink)

New Year's Eve celebrations

Please take extra care during New Year celebrations.  Many of the things we enjoy during this festive period,  like fireworks, Christmas  lights, candles, paper hats and decorations can all be fire hazards when you do not properly take care of them.

Here are some tips to keep you safe this New Year

• If you are planning to celebrate with fireworks, store them in a metal box, read the instructions, never go back to a lit firework and keep a bucket of water nearby.

• Never place candles near your Christmas tree or furnishings. Don't leave them burning unattended.

• Decorations can burn easily - Don't attach them to lights or heaters.

• Switch off electrical appliances when not in use, unless they're designed to stay on. Take special care with fairy lights and outdoor lights. Always switch off and unplug lights before you go to bed.

• Check your lights conform to the British Standard. Always use an RCD on outdoor electrical equipment (safety device that can save lives by instantly switching off the power)

• Never leave cooking unattended.

• Check the battery in your smoke alarm every week and use the New Year as a reminder to clean it and remove dust.

SERVPRO of Pasadena North understands that New Year's celebrations are a time to have fun with family and friends!  Read and follow the tips to help have a SAFE holiday!

Happy New Years 2019

Holiday Fire Safety Tips

1/4/2019 (Permalink)

The holidays are a joyous time when we celebrate many festivities with our loved ones. However, it is also a time when many accidental fires occur. We at SERVPRO want to help ensure our customers have a happy and safe holiday season. Here are some helpful tips to help keep you and your home safe:

• When selecting a Christmas tree make sure pine needles are green and vibrant.
• Water Christmas tree daily, the average tree requires about a gallon of water. This will help avoid drying out.
• If tree does dry out do not plug in the tree lights.
• Do not leave tree lights on overnight.
• Keep Christmas tree away from heated surfaces such as fire places and heaters.
• Never leave lit candles unattended, especially around small children and/or pets.
• Always extinguish fire place after every use.
• Do not place any objects near heaters.
• When using the oven or stove, do not leave it unattended.
On behalf of our family at SERVPRO we would like to wish you and your family a Happy Holiday!

Communities During Storm

1/4/2019 (Permalink)

The recent fires in Southern California, the key thing to remember is to not panic. In times like this, staying calm and addressing the problem correctly can go a long way. These wild fires made it from the San Fernando Valley all the way to the hills of Santa Barbara, where our Storm Team and SERVPRO of Pasadena Noth have been dispatched. They are working diligently to begin the cleanup and restoration process for the properties that have been effected. During times like this, we see how well connected the community is. Our customers have been looking out for each other, by staying in communication to coordinate their schedules and give each other updates on the latest fire status. When our clients are at ease, it makes making it “Like it never even happened.” that much easier. We appreciate the patience and great feedback we have received from our customers.

Spooky season is Coming!

10/9/2018 (Permalink)

The fall season is upon us and you know what that means? Yes, you guessed it right, Pumpkin Spice Lattes, the change in weather and who can forget Halloween! 

We here at SERVPRO of Pasadena North like to spice things up as well.This year we decided to change things up a little and not only dress ourselves up but have our 1st Annual Office Decorating Contest. The winner of this years contest received movies tickets and dinner for two. At SERVPRO of Pasadena North we take competition very seriously. We have 8 offices in total and of the 8 offices Ms Flood proved herself to be the victor. Ms. Flood went above and beyond showcasing her creativity. 

This only means that next year we have to bring our A game. Congratulations Ms Flood we'll patiently look forward to dethroning you next year!

Bolton & Company Corn Hole Toss

5/7/2018 (Permalink)

This was our first year attending Bolton and Company’s fundraiser at the Rose Bowl and what an experience that was. We participated in their annual corn hole toss tournament. Although we didn’t win, we had a great time and met a lot of genuine people because of it. The purpose of the fundraiser was to raise money for charity and organizations that help those in need. We a grateful to have such a caring business in the city of Arcadia. SERVPRO of Pasadena North wants to thank everyone at Bolton and Company that made this event possible and a memorable experience for us. We’re looking forward to next years event!!!

Safety @ Lake

2/6/2018 (Permalink)

On January 31st, 2018 SERVPRO of Pasadena North was featured as an Emergency Response vendor at Lake Ave Church's Emergency Preparedness Fair, "Safety @ Lake". This is our 4th year participating in this fun and informative event. Treasure, Marian and Levi make this event possible by bringing together local businesses that serve the great city of Pasadena. It was a day filled with workshops for adults as well as children, teaching the importance of being prepared for an emergency. Although there is no telling when or a disaster may strike, at least you know you can count on SERVPRO of Pasadena North heroes to have your back. With over 1,600 locations nationwide your SERVPRO heroes are only a phone call away. We will help leave it, "Like it never even happened".

Water Mitigation Leads to Mold Remediation

1/22/2018 (Permalink)

A job usually turns into a mold remediation after the affected area has experienced some type of water damage. That’s why it’s important to contact SERVPRO right away to get started on fixing the problem before it gets worse.

Primary loss site is the kitchen. The walls and cabinets in the kitchen had high moisture readings. We had then learned that the water traveled to other rooms, so we immediately ran our moisture tests and discovered moisture in the other rooms. Once we got permission to remove the hard would floor, we saw that mold had started to grow. The picture is of mold underneath a staircase where the water traveled down to. The mold remediation process has now begun. Our technicians must remove the mold off both the walls and studs. Mold remediation must be done with extreme caution to ensure the mold can’t affect any other areas. 

What You Should Know About Mold

1/22/2018 (Permalink)

Mold is very interesting, but gross at the same time. We here at SERVPRO want you to know if you have a mold problem, we can take care of it. However, there are some things about mold that you should know. When you hear the term "black mold", you may think that its very harmful. What you should know is that mold can be all colors and its color doesn't dictate how harmful it may be. The color of mold may vary, due to whatever type of material it is consuming. Mold releases spores and may cause an allergic reactions, no matter what color or what type of mold it is.

Just keep in mind SERVPRO of Pasadena North, has highly trained technicians who specialize in mold remediation.

What is Mold?

1/11/2018 (Permalink)

Mold is a type of fungus. It can be found both indoors and outdoors. Research has shown that mold grows best in humid, warm and moist environments. Mold commonly occurs in homes during the winter because of the significant amount of moisture in the air. Below are the common types of molds found indoor.

• Aspergillus - grows on dust, food made from powder, and most commonly found on drywall.
• Cladosporium - can grow in both cool and warm environments and is typically found on fabric and on the surface of wood.
• Penicillium - often has a blue or green color and is typically formed on objects that have been affected by water. 
• Alternaria - is found in most common damp areas, such as showers or under sinks.

SERVPRO of Pasadena North is open 24-hours, don’t hesitate to call us at anytime. We can have a team of professional technicians, to start on your mold remediation right away. We’ll make it, “Like it never even happened.”

Don't Let Mold Trick You

1/11/2018 (Permalink)

The beginning of the year, usually starts us off with cold and wet weather. Durning these times, you may notice an increase of moisture in your home. Wether it be on your walls, books, clothes, your child’s toys, mold can grow there. Mold is easier to deal with because you can see it. However, mold spores can be found everywhere and they’re invisible to the naked eye. Spores are found both indoors and outdoors and can travel through your home in many different ways. For example, open windows and ventilation systems are primary ways mold spores can enter your home. The way mold begins to grow is only if the spores were to land on a surface where there’s an excessive amount of moisture. As a reminder, SERVPRO of Pasadena North specializes in Mold Remediation. Give us a call today for a free estimate (626) 447-4111.

Signs of Mold

1/8/2018 (Permalink)

How can you tell if you have mold in your home? Mold has a very distinct and musky smell to it. If you start to notice a very disturbing smell coming from certain walls or platforms in your home, the chances are mold is growing in that area. However, in order to determine whether or not you have mold in your home, an environmental testing company must do the proper tests for our technicians to operate. As you may know, mold can get you sick. It is best that you stay away from the affected area and under no circumstances should you touch mold or clean it yourself. Being exposed to mold can cause excessive sneezing, runny noses, red eyes and even rashes. That’s why it’s best that you call a professional like SERVPRO of Pasadena North, who have the proper knowledge, equipment and highly trained technicians that specialize in mold remediation. We take pride in resolving your mold issue and leaving it, “Like it never even happened.”

Pasadena Ronald McDonald House

12/21/2017 (Permalink)

Pasadena Ronald McDonald House

The season of giving is upon us and this year we were able to spread some Holiday cheer, to the children at the Pasadena Ronald McDonald House. The House does so much for these children and their families while they receive treatment in the surrounding hospitals. Being able to donate our time with children was a reward in itself. Despite their condition they had positive attitudes and personalities that were larger than life.

We spent the afternoon decorating Christmas stockings. The children were very creative and seeing them smile and forget about their condition for those few hours, was definitely priceless. One of the children we met was Jesus, he had such a charismatic personality and he had a ball decorating several different stockings.

Thank you Pasadena Ronald McDonald House for everything you do, we appreciate the opportunity of being able to give back!

Commercial Marketing Forum

10/31/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Commercial Marketing Forum

SERVPRO believes in the continuing education of its associates. That is why our local Franchise Trainers create marketing forums where we are able to share each others success stories. Focusing on putting our clients needs first. 

At this year's marketing forum our guest speaker was Brandon Rohner a SERVPRO Commercial Marketing Consultant. With many years of expertise in the industry. He has been able to assist countless franchises with large losses such as commercial fire/water damage. 

During our forum we focused on ways we can better help our clients prepare for a catastrophic loss. One of the ways we were able to achieve this, is by the SERVPRO Emergency Ready Plan. Its a profile designed to help businesses easily access vital information and key contact phone numbers needed during an emergency. If you own a business and would like to learn more about the SERVPRO Emergency READY Plan, then please call our Marketing Department at (626)447- 4111 for assistance.

Jack O' Lantern

10/4/2016 (Permalink)

Pumpkin Fun

Halloween is around the corner. SERVPRO of Pasadena North would like to share some tips on how to keep your Jack O' Lantern (Pumpkin) from getting moldy fast!                            

Follow these easy steps:

1. After your pumpkin has been carved, rinse it out with water to get rid of excess strings and gunk.


2. Take a large bucket or tub and fill it with three gallons of water.


3. Stir three teaspoons of bleach into the water.


4. Dunk in the pumpkin. 


5. Then you add silica by removing the top of the pumpkin. Take a silica bead and embed it into the interior of the pumpkin. Do not stick the bead in so far that it changes the appearance of the pumpkin's exterior.

Silica packets are largely available with the following items:

• Beef jerky


• Shoes and shoe boxes


• Cat litter 


• Purses or wallets

Taste of Arcadia & Business Showcase

9/16/2016 (Permalink)

Taste of Arcadia

Taste of Arcadia is around the corner!

When?

Monday, September 26th

5:30pm- 9pm

Location

The Los Angeles County Arboretum (301 N. Baldwin Ave, Arcadia Ca). 

The Taste of Arcadia & Business Showcase is held by The Arcadia Chamber of Commerce.  This year's Taste of Arcadia and Business showcase will have an additional 40-plus business exhibitors and one will be SERVPRO's booth. This is SERVPRO of Pasadena Norths second year with a business showcase booth at the taste. Last year was an amazing turnout. We met a lot of people from our Arcadia community and passed out helpful information about SERVPRO. This year we expect to draw 1,800 attendees to enjoy the many different foods from 45 of Arcadia's local restaurants, caterers, and wine and beer vendors. This is the Arcadia Chambers biggest event! Don't miss out on the amazing food & entertainment. 

Visit our booth!

To get your tickets at :

 arcadiacachamber.org