Hurricane Preparedness Month: A Guide for Ocean County, NJ, and the Importance of Professional Cleanup Services

9/13/2024 (Permalink)

National Preparedness Month emphasizes the importance of planning, securing your home, and assembling emergency supplies to stay safe.

As Hurricane Preparedness Month arrives, Ocean County, NJ, residents are reminded of the importance of readiness in the face of potential storms. This month offers a valuable opportunity to focus on safeguarding your home and family from the severe weather that hurricanes can bring. Proper preparation can make a significant difference in minimizing damage and ensuring a swift recovery. Here’s how you can prepare, along with the role of professional hurricane cleanup and restoration services in Ocean County.

Essential Hurricane Preparedness Tips for Ocean County Residents

1. Develop a Localized Emergency Plan: Ocean County’s coastal location makes it particularly vulnerable to hurricanes. Create an emergency plan that includes local evacuation routes, shelters, and emergency contacts. Familiarize yourself with the county’s specific guidelines and procedures for hurricane events.
2. Assemble a Comprehensive Emergency Kit: Given the potential for power outages and disrupted supply chains, ensure your emergency kit includes essentials such as bottled water, non-perishable food, medications, a flashlight, batteries, a first aid kit, and a battery-operated or hand-crank weather radio. Consider adding items like a portable phone charger and pet supplies if needed.
3. Fortify Your Home: Take proactive steps to protect your home from hurricane damage. Install storm shutters or board up windows, secure doors, and check the integrity of your roof. Additionally, clear gutters and downspouts to prevent water buildup and reduce the risk of flooding, especially in flood-prone areas of Ocean County.
4. Stay Informed About Weather Alerts: Sign up for local weather alerts and warnings through Ocean County’s emergency management systems. Monitor updates from the National Weather Service and local news to stay informed about the storm’s progress and any evacuation orders.
5. Review and Update Insurance Policies: Make sure your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance covers hurricane damage and consider additional flood insurance if necessary. Understanding your coverage will help you navigate the claims process more effectively after a storm.

The Importance of Professional Hurricane Cleanup and Restoration Services in Ocean County

Even with meticulous preparation, hurricanes can cause significant damage that requires expert intervention. Here’s why SERVPRO of Jackson/Lacey's professional cleanup and restoration services are crucial for Ocean County residents:

1. Expert Damage Assessment: Our professionals have the knowledge and experience to assess hurricane-related damage accurately. We can identify issues such as water damage, structural weaknesses, and mold growth, and prioritize repairs to prevent further complications.
2. Advanced Equipment and Techniques: Our services utilize specialized equipment and techniques for water extraction, drying, and dehumidification. Our company's expertise ensures that your home is restored efficiently, reducing the risk of long-term damage and health issues.
3. Efficient Restoration: Time is critical when dealing with hurricane damage. SERVPRO of Jackson/Lacey can swiftly address the damage and complete repairs, allowing you to return to normal life as quickly as possible.
4. Insurance Assistance: We can work closely with insurance providers to streamline the claims process. Our team can help with detailed documentation and paperwork, making it easier for you to manage your claim and get the necessary repairs done.
5. Health and Safety: Post-storm environments can pose health risks, such as mold and hazardous debris. Our highly trained technicians are trained to handle these situations safely, ensuring that your home is not only repaired but also safe for reoccupation.

Hurricane Preparedness Month is a crucial time for Ocean County residents to enhance their readiness for potential storms. By creating a comprehensive emergency plan, securing your home, and assembling an emergency kit, you can significantly reduce the impact of hurricanes. Additionally, understanding the value of SERVPRO of Jackson/Lacey's professional cleanup and restoration services ensures that you have the support needed for an effective recovery.

Stay informed, stay prepared, and stay safe!

National Preparedness Month: How to Safeguard Your Property and the Role of SERVPRO of Toms River in Cleanup and Restoration

9/13/2024 (Permalink)

National Preparedness Month highlights the importance of preparing for storms by creating plans, assembling supplies & securing your home.

As National Preparedness Month unfolds, it's an ideal time for Toms River, NJ, residents to focus on safeguarding their homes, businesses and families from potential disasters. This month is dedicated to promoting awareness and readiness for emergencies, whether they involve natural disasters, power outages, or other unforeseen events. In addition to personal preparedness, knowing how to handle cleanup and restoration after a disaster is crucial. Here’s how to prepare effectively and why SERVPRO of Toms River is your go-to partner for professional cleanup and restoration services.

Key Steps for Effective Emergency Preparedness

1. Create a Family Emergency Plan: Develop a detailed plan that includes emergency contacts, evacuation routes, and a meeting place. Make sure every family member understands the plan and practices it regularly. In Toms River, consider local hazards such as flooding and hurricanes when planning your responses.
2. Assemble an Emergency Kit: Prepare a kit with essential items to sustain your family for at least 72 hours. Include non-perishable food, water, medications, a flashlight, batteries, a first aid kit, and a battery-powered radio. Don’t forget important documents, cash, and pet supplies if needed.
3. Secure Your Home: Protect your home from common hazards. Ensure that windows, doors, and the roof are in good condition. Install sump pumps or flood barriers if you live in a flood-prone area. Regularly check and maintain smoke detectors and fire extinguishers.
4. Stay Informed: Sign up for local alerts and warnings through Toms River’s emergency management services. Monitor weather forecasts and stay updated on any potential risks to your area. Having reliable sources of information can help you make timely decisions during emergencies.
5. Review Insurance Coverage: Verify that your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance covers potential hazards relevant to your area. This might include flood insurance or coverage for other natural disasters. Understanding your policy can streamline the claims process if damage occurs.

Why SERVPRO of Toms River is Essential for Cleanup and Restoration

When a disaster strikes, having a professional restoration service can make a world of difference. Here’s why SERVPRO of Toms River is a valuable resource for cleanup and restoration:

1. Expert Damage Assessment: Our experienced team can accurately assess the extent of damage caused by floods, fires, or other disasters. Their detailed evaluations help in prioritizing repairs and addressing the most critical issues first.
2. Advanced Equipment and Techniques: With state-of-the-art equipment and proven methods, our crew effectively handles water extraction, drying, and dehumidification. Our advanced technology ensures thorough restoration and minimizes the risk of future problems such as mold growth.
3. Rapid Response: Time is crucial in disaster recovery. We offer prompt, 24/7 emergency services to address damage quickly and prevent further issues. Our efficient approach helps restore your home and life to normalcy as fast as possible.
4. Insurance Assistance: We can work closely with insurance companies to facilitate the claims process. We will provide detailed documentation and communicate with insurers, helping to ensure that you receive the coverage and support you need.
5. Health and Safety: Post-disaster environments can be hazardous due to mold, bacteria, and debris. Our team is highly trained to handle these risks safely, ensuring that your home is not only restored but also safe for you and your family to return.

National Preparedness Month serves as a vital reminder for Toms River residents to enhance their readiness for emergencies and disasters. By developing a comprehensive emergency plan, assembling a well-stocked kit, securing your home, and staying informed, you can effectively mitigate the impact of disasters. Additionally, understanding the value of professional cleanup and restoration services from SERVPRO of Toms River ensures that you have the expert support needed for a swift and effective recovery.

For more information on preparedness strategies and how SERVPRO of Toms River can assist with cleanup and restoration, don’t hesitate to reach out to local experts. Stay prepared, stay safe, and be ready to face any challenges that come your way!

Emergency Preparedness for Seniors with Chronic Health Conditions

8/30/2023 (Permalink)

Protect your family and property by being prepared by planning ahead.

With National Preparedness Month here it is important we focus on our elderly population, especially the individuals with chronic health conditions. As we prioritize the safety and well-being of our communities it is crucial to address the unique needs of our senior citizens. Emergencies and natural disasters can strike unexpectedly leaving loved ones vulnerable and in need of immediate assistance. By taking proactive steps and implementing an emergency preparedness plan, seniors in Forked River can increase their safety and gain peace of mind during times of crisis. Whether you are a senior yourself, a caregiver, or a concerned family member, below is a general planning list provided by ameridisability.com:

• Prepare an emergency plan and supply kit. Store three days worth of water, food, and medicine. Register for services like SMART911 and Code Red to help first responders in identifying those in need during disasters.
• When evacuating be prepared to leave quickly and bring essential items like medication, medical records, insurance information, and healthcare provider’s contact details.
• Get extra prescribed medicines from your doctor and keep a list of all prescriptions (including name, dose, and pharmacy info). Inform the shelter or temporary housing staff about your health issues, special needs, and medications.
• Store medicines, supplies, and equipment in a cool, safe, and waterproof place. If you rely on electric-powered medical equipment learn how to prepare for power outages.
• After a disaster see if the Emergency Prescription Assistance Program (EPAP) is active. The free service aids in replacing lost or damaged medicine, supplies, equipment, and vaccines. You can enroll by visiting the EPAP website. You can use RX Open to locate open pharmacies.
• To prevent infection or illness it is important to clean up, disinfect, and wash your hands frequently. If soap and water are unavailable use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. If you notice redness, swelling, or
  signs of infection like fever, increasing pain, or other concerning symptoms seek immediate medical attention.
• During or after a natural disaster finding your usual food may be challenging. Prioritize eating as healthily as possible given the circumstances.
• When feeling overwhelmed seek support from family, friends, support groups, or healthcare professionals. Engaging in physical activity can also aid in stress reduction.

Prioritizing emergency preparedness for seniors with chronic health issues is essential. By equipping seniors with the necessary tools and knowledge we can help ensure the safety of our loved ones.

In case you ever experience damage from a natural disaster SERVPRO of Jackson, Lacey is here to provide any necessary assistance.

How to Keep Rain Water Out of Your Jackson Township Home

2/3/2023 (Permalink)

Moisture reading equipment helps SERVPRO of Jackson/Lacey determine the moisture inside porous objects such as flooring and drywalls.

Below are ten things you can to prevent rain water from entering your home:

1. Clean Rain Gutters: It is recommended that you clean your gutters biannually. During rain fall if your gutters are clogged from debris or any other matter, it can create a blockage and eventually overflow. The overflow has nowhere to go other than down the exterior of your home and potentially direct water into your home.
2. Increase Grade: Make sure the soil next to your home is pitched, or sloped AWAY from your house to divert water.
3. Sweep Debris Away: If weather permits, sweep outdoor surfaces weekly. Sweep patio and door ways to prevent debris from clogging exterior drains.
4. Expand Exterior Drains: Expanding the surface area of the exterior drain decreases the likelihood of the drain clogging.
5. Divert Downspouts: By attaching a corrugated hose to the base of the downspout, it redirects the water away from your structure.
6. Roof Maintience: It is recommended that you have your roof inspected annually and/or after a major storm. Your roof is the first line of defense; if it’s in good condition it’s more likely to handle damage affected by a storm.
7. Window Repairs: Window installation and maintenance is paramount. Certain windows are fitted with well drains to guide water away from your house. Improper caulking can be detrimental, by directing water into the structure as opposed to away.
8. Construct a Swale Ditch :Digging a trench and filling it with landscaping rock can help prevent water from entering the structure. This is beneficial particularly for yards that are very flat.
9. Exterior French Drain: For properties on a slope, an exterior French drain is a useful, inexpensive way to divert surface water away from the structure.
10. Install a Sump Pump: As a last resort, installing a sump pump is an option. Start by digging a well through the basement or slab of the structure. The well may be up to 7 or 10 feet deep. As the water table increases, a sump pump activates and transports water away from the structure.

Do you know that SERVPRO of Jackson/Lacey have highly trained storm damage specialists?

As water and storm damage specialists, SERVPRO of Jackson/Lacey has the experience and advanced training techniques that enables us to restore your property quickly. We use scientific drying principles and provide validation and documentation that your property is dry and the job is complete.

• Water Damage Restoration Technician
• Applied Structural Drying Technicians

When a storm hits your Jackson Township home or business, you need help immediately. Our quick response will help prevent secondary damage and help reduce restoration costs. Call us 24/7 at (732) 523-4986 for any size storm damage cleanup.