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

9/13/2024 (Permalink)

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

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!

Reviving Your Office: Professional Biohazard Cleaning After Raccoon Invasions

9/10/2024 (Permalink)

Equipped with the necessary safety apparatus and cleaning products, we can transform an unhealthy environment back into a clean, safe office.

When it comes to maintaining a safe and productive office environment, the last thing you want to encounter is an unexpected wildlife invasion in the ceiling. With raccoon’s
curious nature and knack for finding their way into unexpected places, these animals
can sometimes make themselves at home in the nooks and crannies of your Toms
River workplace. While their
presence may initially seem harmless, the reality is that raccoons can pose various
risks.  

Below is a list of tips from SJ Winn Construction
on how to protect your workplace from these
unwelcome guests.

• Secure Your Garbage Bins
• Seal Entry Points
• Install Sound Deterrents and Motion-Activated Lights
• Trim Branches That Are Overhanging
• Eliminate Food Sources

Dealing with a raccoon infestation can be a significant challenge, but proactive measures
can greatly reduce the risk of future encounters. If you’ve recently discovered raccoon
urine or droppings in your ceiling, it’s crucial to act quickly and safely. SERVPRO of Toms
River specializes in biohazard cleaning and can help restore your property to a safe and
healthy state. Our team will decontaminate and dispose of the animal waste properly in accordance with OSHA and health regulations.  

At SERVPRO of Toms River your safety and peace of mind are our top priorities. 

SERVPRO of Toms River Offers Professional Faucet Leak Restoration

8/6/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Toms River's professional water damage cleanup in this first floor bathroom from a bathroom faucet leak.

SERVPRO of Toms River specializes in addressing water damage cleanup caused by leaks, such as those from a bathroom faucet. These leaks, while seemingly minor, can lead to significant damage if not promptly addressed, including mold growth, structural damage, and costly repairs. Our team is equipped to manage such incidents efficiently and effectively, ensuring the affected areas are restored to their pre-damage condition.

Initial Assessment

The process begins with a comprehensive assessment of the affected area. Technicians use specialized tools, such as moisture meters and thermal imaging cameras, to detect hidden moisture and assess the extent of the water intrusion. This step is crucial to identifying all areas that have been impacted, including those that may not be visible at first glance.

Water Extraction and Drying

Once the assessment is complete, our team proceeds with water extraction. Using powerful pumps and vacuums, they remove standing water to prevent further damage and reduce the risk of mold growth. Following water extraction, industrial-grade dehumidifiers and air movers are strategically placed to dry the area thoroughly. The drying process is carefully monitored to ensure that moisture levels are reduced to safe, acceptable levels.

Mold Prevention and Remediation

Given the high risk of mold growth in damp environments, our restoration team takes proactive measures to prevent mold development. This includes applying antimicrobial treatments to affected surfaces and, if necessary, removing contaminated materials that cannot be salvaged. In cases where mold is already present, specialized mold remediation services are employed to eliminate the infestation safely and effectively.

Repair and Reconstruction

After the drying and decontamination processes are complete, we focus on repairing and restoring the damaged area. This may involve replacing damaged drywall, flooring, or cabinetry, and ensuring that the bathroom is structurally sound and visually restored. Skilled technicians work to match materials and finishes to the original design, maintaining the aesthetic integrity of the space.

Customer Support and Documentation

Throughout the cleanup restoration and reconstruction process, our crew chief maintains open communication with the client, providing updates and addressing any concerns. They also assist with insurance claims by documenting the damage and restoration efforts, ensuring a smooth claims process.

Why Choose SERVPRO of Toms River for Your Faucet Leak Cleanup and Reconstruction

By entrusting the cleanup and restoration to SERVPRO of Toms River, homeowners can be assured that their bathroom faucet leak is managed with expertise and care. Our comprehensive approach not only addresses the immediate damage but also prevents future issues, while restoring the affected areas to preloss condition.

Call SERVPRO of Toms River today at 732.349.9898 for any size water damage cleanup, restoration and reconstruction.

SERVPRO of Toms River and Volunteers at the 13th Annual Gift Auction Fundraiser

6/4/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Toms River always there to help!

It was a little rainy for the Central Ocean Rotary Club of Toms River's 13th Annual Gift Auction but as always, SERVPRO of Toms River was there to help. They moved everything from our office to the Clarion in less than one hour. The SERVPRO team was amazing so just wanted to say thank you for all your help!!!!

SERVPRO of Toms River IICRC Certified Firm 2024

1/15/2024 (Permalink)

Certified Firms work in the field every day with unmatched expertise to complete complex projects and do it right the first time.

The Art of Vandalism Cleanup by SERVPRO of Toms River

1/10/2024 (Permalink)

24/7 death, crime scene, suicide cleanup and other biohazard cleanup services are provided by trained technicians of SERVPRO of Toms River.

Vandalism cleanup at your South Toms River home is a terrifying thing to experience and can have a great impact on individuals. With blood and broken glass present, it is important to act promptly. Broken glass can cause injuries if not removed and blood spills can have harmful blood-borne pathogens that may present a health risk. Once the authorities process the scene and complete their investigation, SERVPRO of Toms River can start the biohazard cleanup process.

What does the cleanup process entail?

There are 5 steps in our biohazard cleanup process:

1. Assess the area, including the amount surrounding area of hazardous material.
2. Isolate the impacted area to prevent further spread and prevent cross-contamination.
3. Clean all signs of blood or biological material and safely discard contaminated materials.
4. Disinfect impacted areas with proper cleaners specific to your specific job requirements.
5. Remove any remaining or lingering odors.

When vandalism disrupts your life it can be very unsettling. SERVPRO's team of highly trained technicians will act quickly to restore your property and your safety to give you back your piece of mind.

Christmastime Fire Safety

12/20/2023 (Permalink)

Remember to practice safe cooking and baking habits this holiday season.

Christmastime may be the most wonderful time of the year but that also means it can be a bit hectic. There are lots of parties,  gift shopping, decorating, holiday movie watching, Christmas card writing, holiday pictures, Santa visits, baking and cooking.  

With the increase in baking and cooking comes the increased risk of kitchen fires. Here are the top fire cooking safety tips from the National Fire Protection Agency:

• Stay in the kitchen when you are cooking on the stove top so you can keep an eye on the food.
• Stay in the home when cooking your turkey, and check on it frequently.
• Keep children away from the stove. The stove will be hot and kids should stay three feet away.
• Make sure kids stay away from hot food and liquids. The steam or splash from vegetables, gravy or coffee could cause serious burns.
• Keep knives out of the reach of children.
• Be sure electric cords from an electric knife, coffee maker, plate warmer or mixer are not dangling off the counter within easy reach of a child.
• Keep matches and utility lighters out of the reach of children — up high in a locked cabinet.
• Never leave children alone in room with a lit candle.
• Keep the floor clear so you don’t trip over kids, toys, pocketbooks or bags.
• Make sure your smoke alarms are working. Test them by pushing the test button. 

Lastly, apply your own common sense around safety in the kitchen. When in doubt about something, always err on the side of caution.

Enjoy the company of your family and friends this Christmas but make sure to take the proper safety precautions while cooking. If a kitchen fire does happened, SERVPRO of Toms River is open 24/7 to make it "Like it never even happened".

First Thing to Do After a Water Loss Occurs in Toms River

12/1/2023 (Permalink)

This town house complex in Toms River had a water main break in an upstairs unit and water leaked down to our client's below.

This town house complex in Toms River had a water main break in an upstairs unit and water leaked down to our client's unit below. Four entire rooms were affected by the water that came from above.  If this happens to you, always try to stop the flow of water first. Either do it yourself if it is both safe and possible to do so or call a plumber to do it for you. Locate your home’s main water supply line and turn it off at the valve. This will cease the flow of water to the entire house and should stop the leak in its tracks. This will prevent additional water from flowing into you town home and can help limit further damage to your property and to your belongings.  Our team is here to help in times of distress and  we will help you navigate the water damage cleanup process from start to finish. We will restore your property by providing comprehensive water damage cleanup services to customers throughout Ocean County. SERVPRO of Toms River is always there to make every water damage it "Like it never evened happened".

The Fiery Risks of Space Heaters

11/7/2023 (Permalink)

Stay Safe When You're Using Space Heaters This Winter!

With winter just around the corner here in Bayville, it is never too early to discuss the potential dangers of heating equipment (such as space heaters) and their association with house fires. While heating devices provide warmth and comfort during colder seasons, it is important to be aware of the risks they may pose. Improper use or neglect of heating equipment can result in devastating fires that not only endanger lives but also lead to fire damage to your home. Understanding the potential hazards and taking necessary precautions is crucial to ensure the safety of your home and loved ones. “Heating equipment caused one in six home structure fires (13%) that took place in 2016–2020 and 18% of home fire deaths. A vast majority of home heating fire deaths (88%) involved stationary or portable space heaters. Nearly half (46%) of all home heating fires occurred in January, February, and December” stated the National Fire Protection Association 

Below are 6 Safety Tips provided by NFPA:

1. Ensure that any flammable items are kept a minimum of three feet away from heating
   equipment.
2. Create a safe perimeter of three feet around space heaters, ensuring that children are
   kept away from these areas.
3. It is crucial to have a certified professional install stationary space heating equipment
   and central heating equipment in compliance with local codes and manufacturers’ instructions.
4. Ensure that heating equipment undergo an annual inspection and cleaning conducted
   by a qualified professional.
5. Always remember to switch off portable heaters when leaving the room or going to bed.
6. It is essential to use the designated fuel type specified by the manufacturer for fuel-
   burning space heaters.

It is crucial to understand and respect the potential fire hazards associated with space heaters. By taking the necessary safety precautions and following best practices, we can enjoy the warmth they provide without putting ourselves or our surroundings at risk for a fire damage. By prioritizing fire safety, we can create a cozy and secure environment during the colder months.

SERVPRO of Toms River is here to help in the event of an emergency, don’t hesitate to reach out if you are in need of an expert or have any questions.

Stay warm and stay safe this winter!

Flood Zones and Your Island Heights Home

5/3/2023 (Permalink)

As a leader in flood damage restoration, SERVPRO of Toms River has the specialized training to restore your home back to its pre-flood condition.

If you live in Island Heights you may be wondering if your property is at a high flood risk. According to Risk Factor, “There are
229 properties in Island Heights that have greater than a 26% chance of being severely affected
by flooding over the next 30 years. This represents 23% of all properties in Island Heights.” Just because some areas of Island Heights have a greater chance at experiencing a flood, doesn’t necessarily mean flood damage is going to happen to your home. It is always best to be prepared, below we have couple tips about these zones and how they could affect your home:

1. What is a Flood Zone? Flood zone describes the risk of flooding for a specific area. Everyone lives in a flood zone- it’s
   just classified between low, moderate, or high risk. FEMA determines these risk levels and you can locate this information at FEMA Flood Map Service Center.
2. Do I Need Flood Insurance? In New Jersey, if your home is in a high risk flood zone area you might be required to have flood insurance in order to qualify for a mortgage. In most cases, flood insurance is a separate policy than your homeowners or renters insurance. Discussing this with your insurance agent is the best way to determine this and see what your options are. Although flood insurance is not mandatory, it is always best to have coverage.
3. What to do if a Flood Happens? If a storm causes flooding in your home, you need to contact SERVPRO of Toms River as quickly as possible for storm damage repair. Our highly trained team of professionals have the necessary equipment to extract large amounts of water and restore your property back to its original condition. It is important to act fast to prevent further damage to your home and potential mold growth.