Weather Alerts and Emergency Notifications to stay Informed about Severe Weather

9/25/2023 (Permalink)

When it comes to severe weather be weather alert with technology to protect yourself and family.

Severe weather events, such as hurricanes, tornadoes, and thunderstorms, can strike unexpectedly in the Southeast region. Staying informed about these weather conditions is vital for ensuring personal safety and preparedness. In this blog post, we will explore the different ways you can receive weather alerts and emergency notifications in the Southeast, enabling you to stay one step ahead and make informed decisions during severe weather events.

Local Weather Apps and Websites

In today's digital age, local weather apps and websites are invaluable tools for staying informed about weather conditions in your area. These services provide real-time weather updates, radar images, severe weather alerts, and forecasts specific to your location. Popular weather apps and websites include The Weather Channel, AccuWeather, and the National Weather Service (NWS). By downloading these apps or visiting their websites, you can access the latest weather information at your fingertips.

Mobile Alerts and Text Messages

Mobile alerts and text messages are another effective way to receive weather notifications in the Southeast. Most wireless carriers provide free emergency alert services that automatically deliver important weather information to your mobile device. These alerts are issued by government agencies and weather organizations, ensuring that you receive critical updates directly to your phone. Ensure that you have enabled emergency alerts on your mobile device settings to receive these notifications.

NOAA Weather Radio

NOAA Weather Radio (NWR) is a nationwide network of radio stations that provide continuous weather information 24/7. These stations broadcast weather forecasts, severe weather watches, warnings, and other emergency messages. NOAA Weather Radio receivers are available for purchase and are an excellent investment for staying informed during severe weather events, especially if you live in an area prone to power outages or have limited access to internet services.

Social Media and Online Communities

Social media platforms, such as Twitter and Facebook, have become crucial sources of information during severe weather events. Many local news stations, emergency management agencies, and meteorologists actively share weather updates, alerts, and emergency notifications through their social media accounts. Following these accounts and engaging with online communities dedicated to weather updates can help you stay informed, gain real-time insights, and access valuable resources during severe weather events.

Local News and Radio Stations

Traditional media sources, such as local news stations and radio stations, remain reliable and accessible channels for receiving weather alerts and emergency notifications in the Southeast. Pay attention to weather reports and news bulletins during severe weather events. Many news stations now have mobile apps and websites that offer weather updates and live streaming, providing additional options for staying informed.

When it comes to severe weather events in the Southeast, staying informed is paramount for your safety and preparedness. By utilizing local weather apps and websites, enabling mobile alerts, investing in a NOAA Weather Radio, and following social media accounts, you can receive timely weather alerts and emergency notifications. Remember to always have multiple sources of information and to seek shelter or evacuate when instructed by local authorities. By staying informed, you can make well-informed decisions and protect yourself and your loved ones during severe weather events.

Counting the Costs: Understanding the Potential Revenue Loss After a Fire Damage

9/12/2023 (Permalink)

Hire a fire restoration expert for recovery after a fire loss.

Experiencing a fire at your business can be a devastating and traumatic event. Apart from the obvious physical damage, the financial implications can be significant. A fire can disrupt operations, cause inventory loss, and even result in temporary closure. In this blog post, we will explore the potential revenue loss that can occur after a fire damage and how to mitigate its impact.

Temporary closure and loss of revenue

Following a fire, it is common for businesses to temporarily cease operations while the damage is assessed, repairs are made, and the premises are deemed safe. This forced closure can lead to a substantial loss in revenue, especially if the downtime stretches for an extended period. The length of closure will vary depending on the severity of the fire and the time needed for repairs.

During the period of closure and even after reopening, some customers may be hesitant to return. The disruption caused by the fire may lead them to seek alternatives or simply lose trust in your business. Rebuilding customer confidence and reestablishing your reputation will take time and effort, resulting in a potential loss of customers and a decrease in revenue.

Inventory and equipment damage

In a fire, inventory, equipment, and other assets can be severely damaged, or in some cases, completely destroyed. This loss not only impacts your ability to serve customers but also represents a significant financial setback. Restocking inventory and replacing damaged equipment can be costly and may further delay business operations.

It is important to review your insurance policies to understand the coverage provided for fire damage. Business interruption insurance can help mitigate the revenue loss during the closure period. This type of insurance typically covers lost income, ongoing expenses (such as rent and utilities), and additional expenses incurred due to the fire.

Disaster recovery and contingency planning

In order to minimize revenue loss and ensure a quicker recovery, having a comprehensive disaster recovery and contingency plan in place is crucial. This includes, but is not limited to, regular backups of data and important documents, off-site storage of sensitive information, and having emergency contact information easily accessible. By having these plans in place, you can mitigate the impact of a fire on your revenue and resumption of operations.

After a fire, it is advisable to work with fire restoration and recovery experts who can assess the extent of the damage and provide guidance on the steps needed for a full recovery. They can assist in salvaging items, cleaning affected areas, and restoring your premises to a safe and functional state. Time is of the essence, as quick action can help minimize revenue loss and expedite the reopening of your business.

In conclusion, the potential revenue loss after a fire damage can be significant and far-reaching. Temporary closure, loss of customers and reputation, inventory damage, and equipment replacement are just a few of the financial challenges that businesses may face. However, by having appropriate insurance coverage, implementing robust disaster recovery plans, and seeking professional assistance, it is possible to mitigate the impact and recover more swiftly. Being prepared and taking proactive steps before a fire occurs is essential to ensure the continuity and financial stability of your business.

What Can Cause a Flooded Basement? Exploring Common Culprits

7/17/2023 (Permalink)

Regular maintenance, inspections, and timely repairs are key to protecting your basement from water damage.

A flooded basement can be a homeowner's worst nightmare. Not only does it create a mess, but it can also lead to significant property damage and pose potential health risks. Understanding the common causes of basement flooding is essential for homeowners to take preventive measures and minimize the risk. In this blog post, we will explore several factors that can cause a flooded basement, providing valuable insights to help you protect your home.

Heavy rainfall and poor drainage

One of the most common causes of basement flooding is heavy rainfall. When the ground becomes saturated with water, excess water can seep into your basement through cracks in the foundation or windows. Poorly designed or clogged gutters and downspouts can also contribute to water pooling around the foundation, increasing the likelihood of basement flooding.

Foundation cracks and leaks

Cracks in the foundation walls or floor provide an easy entry point for water to infiltrate your basement. Over time, natural settlement, soil pressure, or temperature fluctuations can cause the foundation to develop cracks. Additionally, hydrostatic pressure from groundwater can push water through foundation walls. Regular inspections and timely repairs of foundation cracks are crucial to prevent basement flooding.

Faulty or overwhelmed sump pump

A sump pump is designed to pump out excess water from your basement, preventing flooding. However, if the pump is not functioning correctly or becomes overwhelmed due to excessive water intrusion, it can lead to a flooded basement. Regular maintenance, including testing the sump pump, cleaning the pit, and ensuring proper discharge, is essential to keep it in optimal working condition.

Burst or leaking pipes

Plumbing issues, such as burst pipes or leaking supply lines, can cause significant water damage in your basement. These issues can result from freezing temperatures, aging pipes, or poor installation. Regularly inspecting your plumbing system and addressing any leaks or weak spots promptly can help prevent basement flooding due to pipe-related issues.

Sewer backups

Sewer backups can occur when the municipal sewer system becomes overwhelmed by heavy rainfall or blockages. When the sewer line is unable to handle the excess water or waste, it can cause sewage to back up into your basement through floor drains or toilets. Installing a backwater valve and avoiding flushing inappropriate items down the drains can help reduce the risk of sewer backups.

Improperly graded landscaping

The grading around your home plays a vital role in directing water away from the foundation. If the slope of your yard is incorrect or the landscaping is poorly designed, it can lead to water pooling around the foundation, increasing the chances of basement flooding. Ensuring proper grading and implementing appropriate landscaping measures, such as installing French drains or rain gardens, can help prevent water from seeping into your basement.

A flooded basement can be a homeowner's nightmare, but understanding the common causes can help you take proactive measures to prevent such occurrences. Whether it's heavy rainfall, foundation issues, sump pump failures, plumbing problems, sewer backups, or landscaping concerns, addressing these factors can significantly reduce the risk of basement flooding. Regular maintenance, inspections, and timely repairs are key to safeguarding your basement and protecting your property from water damage.

Navigating the Waiting Period: Steps to Take Before the Insurance Adjuster's Evaluation

6/18/2023 (Permalink)

While waiting for insurance adjusters to assess storm damage, taking proactive steps is essential.

When your property suffers storm damage, it's important to act swiftly and notify your insurance company to initiate the claims process. However, waiting for insurance adjusters to assess the damage and process your claim can take time. In this blog, we'll explore practical steps you can take to protect your property, ensure your safety, and expedite the recovery process while awaiting the arrival of insurance adjusters. 

Why You Shouldn’t Wait

When your property has been affected by storm damage, it's important not to wait for the insurance adjuster to arrive before taking action. Immediate action is crucial to mitigate further damage and ensure the safety of your property and its occupants. Storm damage, such as roof leaks or broken windows, can allow water to penetrate your home, leading to extensive water damage and potential mold growth. By taking prompt measures to protect your property, such as covering damaged areas, removing debris, and drying out affected spaces, you can prevent additional harm and demonstrate your commitment to mitigating the loss. Remember, your insurance adjuster will still need documentation and evidence of the damage, so it's essential to document everything through photographs and detailed descriptions. Acting promptly not only safeguards your property but also expedites the recovery process and ensures a smoother insurance claim experience. Let's dive in and discover what to do in the meantime.

Document the Damage

While waiting for insurance adjusters, it's crucial to thoroughly document the storm damage for your insurance claim. Take detailed photographs or videos of the affected areas, including structural damage, debris, and personal belongings. Make a comprehensive list of damaged items, noting their approximate value and any relevant details. This documentation will serve as valuable evidence during the claims process, helping ensure a fair assessment of the damage and a prompt settlement.

Mitigate Further Damage

To prevent further deterioration of your property, it's important to take immediate action to mitigate any potential secondary damage. If safe to do so, cover damaged areas with tarps or boards to protect against water intrusion. Clear debris, fallen branches, and any hazardous materials from your property. Additionally, turn off electricity and water supplies if you suspect any damage to electrical or plumbing systems. By taking these proactive measures, you can minimize the risk of additional harm to your property.

Maintain Open Communication

While waiting for insurance adjusters, maintain open and frequent communication with your insurance company. Keep a record of all interactions, including names, dates, and details discussed. Update your insurance provider with any significant developments or changes to the property's condition. Clear communication will help ensure that your claim progresses smoothly and that any necessary additional information or documentation is provided promptly.

Seek Professional Assistance

Engaging the services of a professional disaster restoration company can be invaluable while waiting for insurance adjusters. These experts specialize in storm damage restoration and can provide immediate assistance and guidance. They will conduct a thorough assessment of the damage, offer temporary repairs, and provide an estimate for the restoration work. Their expertise can help streamline the claims process by providing detailed documentation, estimates, and expert opinions to support your insurance claim.

Keep Detailed Records

Maintain meticulous records throughout the entire process. Keep track of all expenses related to temporary repairs, hotel stays, and additional living costs if your property is uninhabitable. Retain receipts, invoices, and any other relevant documents that demonstrate the extent of the damage and the expenses incurred. These records will help ensure that you are properly reimbursed for eligible expenses when settling your insurance claim.

While waiting for insurance adjusters to assess storm damage, taking proactive steps is essential. Documenting the damage, mitigating further harm, maintaining open communication, seeking professional assistance, and keeping detailed records will help expedite the recovery process and ensure a fair settlement for your insurance claim.

What to Do When You Find Mold in Your Apartment: A Comprehensive Guide

5/30/2023 (Permalink)

If you find mold in your apartment, it is important to seek immediate attention.

Discovering mold in your apartment can be concerning, but it's essential to take immediate action to address the issue and protect your home. Firstly, notify your landlord or property management company about the mold problem. They should be informed promptly and given the opportunity to address the issue. Document the mold growth by taking photographs or videos as evidence. In the meantime, try to minimize your exposure to mold by avoiding direct contact and limiting your time in the affected area. Keep the space well-ventilated and consider using a dehumidifier to reduce moisture.

Notify Your Landlord

The first step is to notify your landlord or property manager. They have a legal responsibility to provide a safe and healthy living environment and should take action to address the mold issue promptly. Be sure to document the mold with photos and keep a record of any communication with your landlord.

Assess the Extent of the Mold

Assess the extent of the mold growth to determine if it's a minor or major problem. If the affected area is less than 10 square feet, you may be able to clean it yourself. However, if the mold covers a larger area or is in a hard-to-reach location, it's recommended to seek professional help.

Take Precautions

It's important to take precautions to prevent exposure to mold spores. Wear protective gear such as gloves, a mask, and goggles, and ensure proper ventilation in the affected area.

Clean the Mold

If the mold is minor, you can clean it yourself using a solution of bleach and water (1 part bleach to 10 parts water) or white vinegar and water (1 part vinegar to 3 parts water). Apply the solution to the affected area and let it sit for 10-15 minutes before scrubbing the surface and rinsing with clean water. Dry the area thoroughly and dispose of any contaminated materials in sealed bags.

Follow Up

After cleaning the mold, monitor the area for any signs of recurrence. Keep a record of the date and method of cleaning in case you need to provide documentation to your landlord.

In summary, if you find mold in your apartment, notify your landlord, assess the extent of the mold, take precautions, clean the mold, and follow up to prevent recurrence. Remember, your health and safety should always be a top priority, so don't hesitate to seek professional help if needed. Contact your landlord for immediate attention. Give SERVPRO a call at the first sign of mold or water damage to your property.

Stay Warm and Safe: Top Tips to Reduce Space Heater Fires in Your Home or Business

4/20/2023 (Permalink)

Remember to use space heaters safely and responsibly.

Space heaters can be a convenient and cost-effective way to warm up a room during cold weather, but they can also pose a fire hazard if not used properly. According to the National Fire Protection Association, space heaters account for one-third of all home heating fires and 80% of home heating fire deaths. To keep your home or business safe, follow these tips to reduce space heater fires.

Choose a safe location

Keep space heaters on a level, non-flammable surface, at least three feet away from combustible materials such as curtains, bedding, and furniture. Do not place them on carpets or rugs, and avoid placing them in high-traffic areas where they can be bumped or knocked over.

Check for safety features

Make sure your space heater has safety features such as automatic shut-off switches, tip-over switches, and overheat protection. These features can prevent fires and protect your home or business.

Read the manual

Read the manufacturer's instructions carefully and follow them. The manual will tell you how to safely use and maintain your space heater, including information on safe distances, recommended wattage, and cleaning.

Don't leave it unattended

Never leave a space heater unattended. If you leave the room or go to bed, turn off the space heater and unplug it. This is especially important for gas-powered space heaters, which can produce carbon monoxide if not properly ventilated.

Keep children and pets away

Children and pets can accidentally knock over a space heater or get burned by its hot surface. Keep children and pets away from space heaters, and do not use space heaters in rooms where children or pets are unsupervised.

Don't overload electrical circuit

Space heaters can be a high-wattage appliance, so make sure you don't overload electrical circuits. Do not plug other electrical devices into the same outlet as your space heater, and do not use extension cords or power strips with your space heater.

Maintain your space heater

Keep your space heater clean and well-maintained. Dust and debris can build up in the heater, reducing its efficiency and increasing the risk of fire. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning and maintenance, and have your space heater serviced by a professional if necessary.

Replace old or damaged space heaters

If your space heater is old, damaged, or not working properly, replace it. Old space heaters may not have the same safety features as newer models, and damaged or malfunctioning space heaters can pose a fire hazard.

By following these tips, you can reduce the risk of space heater fires in your home or business. Remember to always use space heaters safely and responsibly, and never leave them unattended. If you have any questions or concerns about using a space heater, consult the manufacturer's instructions or a professional electrician. Stay safe and warm this winter!

3 Reasons To Worry About Water In Your Crawlspace

3/18/2023 (Permalink)

If you have water in your crawlspace, give SERVPRO a call to help prevent secondary damages.

When it comes to the home, there are a lot of things that can go wrong. You might have bad wiring or foundation issues that need fixing, and sometimes those problems can be hidden away. But what about when something goes wrong with your crawlspace? What is a crawlspace anyway? And why should you worry about water in your crawlspace? Let's take a look at these questions.

What is a crawlspace and what is its purpose?

When you think of a crawlspace, you probably picture an enclosed space with dirt floors and lots of spiders. In reality, it's more like a small unfinished basement: there are no windows or even doors that lead outside.

A crawlspace is a space below the main floor of a building and exists to create a buffer between your home and the wet earth below. They're usually not insulated and can be damp, dirty, and very unappealing. There are several reasons why you should worry about water in your crawlspace:

• It can cause mold and mildew growth
• It can damage the foundation of your home
• It can cause damage to the structural support beams

Water damage from leaks or flooding can cause structural damage as well as foundational problems that may not be visible until later on. This means that if you ignore a leak in your home for too long, you could end up with major problems down the line when everything starts crumbling around you!

3 reasons to never ignore a crawlspace leak

You might not be able to see it, but water damage could be happening in your crawlspace. If you have a crawlspace that's not properly insulated and ventilated, moisture can build up in the air and eventually cause a wide array of problems. Three of the most common issues seen after a crawl space water loss include:

1. Mold and mildew begin to grow and spread.
2. The structural wood beams in your home could begin to rot.
3. The foundation of your home could experience significant damage.

All of these causes could mean problems for your house's stability! It's important to know that it is an easy fix. If you notice any signs of water damage in your crawlspace (like discoloration or mold), call us right away so we can get out there ASAP with our crawlspace repair services before it gets worse!

Water in the crawlspace should be carefully monitored

Water in the crawlspace can be problematic and should be carefully monitored. If you see water in your crawlspace, it's important to understand how it can affect your home and why it's important to address the issue immediately.

The crawlspace is a part of your home that you should take care to protect, especially if it is prone to leaks. The best way to do this is by monitoring the water level in your crawlspace and taking action when necessary. If you notice any signs of leaking or flooding, contact our SERVPRO of Punta Gorda team immediately!

Is your faucet leaking?

3/15/2023 (Permalink)

A leaky faucet can result in water damage.

There are few things worse than a leaky faucet. It's like a dripping faucet that just never stops! But did you know that it's often possible to fix a leaky faucet yourself? All you need is the right tools, some patience and persistence, and most importantly, the will to do it yourself.

Turn off the water to the faucet.

You should turn off the water to your faucet at the main valve. If you are not sure where this is, or if it's too hard for you to reach, call a plumber. Once the water is off remove the handles and screws to access the correct part of the handle that may need to be tighten to prevent further leaking

Remove and replace worn washers.

It may be that there is other parts of the faucet that are faulty. Remove the faucet stem and handle, then loosen or unscrew the nut that holds in place whatever device is keeping your faucet from turning on its base. Once you've done this, take out the old worn washer using needle nose pliers or tweezers. Replace it with a new one that is made of stainless steel (not copper) and fits snugly into place over its O-ring seal.

Tighten loose stem packing nuts.

To tighten loose stem packing nuts, you'll need to remove the faucet handle. On most models, this is done by turning a screw below the handle with an Allen wrench. Once you've removed it, take a look at how far apart your stems are from each other--if they're not very far apart at all (less than 1/2 inch), then it's likely that there's not enough pressure in your pipes for water to flow through them properly. The solution here is simple.

Replace damaged parts.

If you've tried to fix your leaky faucet and it still leaks, then you probably need to replace the faucet. You can find new replacement faucets at any hardware or home improvement store.

If you don't want to buy a whole new faucet, but just want to replace one part of the existing unit (like the sprayer), then look for parts online or at your local hardware store.

If you have a leaky faucet, it's likely that the problem can be fixed without replacing the entire unit. In fact, many times it's easier and cheaper to repair than replace.

If your faucet is dripping or leaking around its base, then this is usually an easy fix. simply tighten up the screws holding everything together. If your handles are loose or popping off when you turn them on or off, then simply tighten up those screws as well. If you continue to have a leaking faucet, give the professionals a call. They have the experience to replace your faulty product and restore it back to normal conditions.

Things to check for in the Wake of a Natural Disaster

2/8/2023 (Permalink)

When a disaster strikes in your North Ft. Myers home, give SERVPRO a call for cleanup!

After a natural disaster strikes, it's important to stay safe and assess the damage. If a flood or natural disaster has damaged your home or property, there are a few things you should do right away. Assess the damage and call a restoration company immediately to help reduce cost and secondary damages.

Check for Damage to your Home

First thing you want to check is structural damage. If you notice that your home has sustained any damage, make sure to call a restoration company immediately. The sooner you discover the issue, the better it will be to mitigate any further damage and receive compensation for repairs.

Check for gas leaks. In the wake of a natural disaster, there is a chance that gas lines could have been damaged or severed by falling trees or other debris. If this happens to be the case in your home, turn off all appliances that use natural gas immediately and contact local authorities before attempting to repair them yourself as they may still be live with leaking fuels inside them.

Exterior of Home

Check the exterior of your home. Make sure doors and windows are still secure after heavy winds have passed through the area. This is important to ensure intruders can do access the property if needs to be left unattended.

Look around your house for signs of water damage. Check electrical outlets and power strips for sparks (an indicator of a possible electrical fault). Assess whether there is any flooding in basements or crawlspaces if possible. Check drains/sewers for blockages, to ensure there is no water backing up into your home. Look around foundation, it's common after major flooding events like hurricanes that flood waters can enter your home through ground level windows and doors.

Have a Emergency Plan

In case of emergency, ensure your family knows the emergency preparedness plan incase you have to evaluate the property. Have a safe spot to meet within the property, and if in need of emergency call 911 to ensure quick response to recover all persons.

Check the safety of Food and Water

If your home is damaged and you have been gone for an extended amount of time, it is important to check your safety of the food and water left behind. Check the expiration date on your food, temperature of your refrigerator and freezer, temperature of your water heater before using again and check the drinking water before consuming.

It’s important to look out for these things after a storm, so that you can take care of any issues right away. The more damage you find now, the less you’ll have to deal with later on when everything resumes normal operations. Give the professionals at SERVPRO of North Fort Myers a call at the first sign of water damage after a storm or natural disaster.

How to avoid Water Damage in your Home

1/10/2023 (Permalink)

Remember to have a backup sump pump in your Cleveland, FL home.

How to Avoid Water Damage in your Home

Water damage is one of the most common and costly home repairs, so it's important to know how to prevent it. Water damage can happen in any room of your house, from the basement to the attic. In this article, we'll look at some of the most common sources of water damage and how to protect against them.

Check your roof.

The roof is the most common source of water damage in a home, so it's important to check for leaks and make repairs if necessary. Look for signs of damage, such as:

• Missing or damaged shingles
• Missing or damaged flashing (metal pieces that protect the edges of your roof)
• Damaged gutters or downspouts
• Soffit (the material that covers the underside of your eaves) or fascia (the flat surface overhanging your windows)

Keep an eye on your sump pump.

Sump pumps are small units installed in your basement to collect water, and they’re powered by electricity. But if they fail, or if debris gets sucked into the system, they can cause major problems — even flooding your Cleveland, FL home.

You should have a backup sump pump that isn’t as susceptible to damage as others because it’s not running all day long (you should only run this during heavy rains). It will also be easier for you to maintain since it doesn’t need constant cleaning and repair due to debris build-up. And if there's ever an issue with your primary pump (like when it fails), having a backup will prevent any potential damage from occurring until repairs can be made.

You should have an inspection done every few years on both types of pumps: primary and backup.

Protect your walls.

The best way to protect your walls from water damage is by using a moisture meter. You may have heard of these before, but what are they and how can they help you avoid water damage?

A moisture meter is an instrument used to measure the amount of moisture in your home’s walls and floors. By finding out where the moisture is coming from and how much water damage has occurred, you can determine whether renovating or repairing existing structures in your home will prevent future problems with mold growth or other types of rot.

This tool will allow you to identify areas that need attention so that they don’t cause further damage or illness as time goes on. A professional technician would be able to use this information when planning repairs or renovations.

Inspect the outside of your home.

• Inspect the outside of your home. A leaky roof or foundation can lead to mold, which will cause considerable damage if left unchecked. Look for water damage on the exterior walls and check gutters and downspouts for clogs — if there are any, clear them out so that water can flow freely away from your home.
• Repair any leaks in windows or doors quickly; this will keep water from seeping into your walls as well as prevent mold growth inside your house.

Be aware of appliances.

There are several things you can do to avoid water damage in your home. First, be aware of appliances. Here are some ways that appliances can cause water damage:

• Overloading outlets with too many devices. If you overload an outlet, the circuit breaker will trip or the fuse will blow and stop power from reaching the circuit. This can cause damage to the appliance and result in a fire hazard.
• Leaving appliances on when not in use (like a dishwasher). Appliances like washing machines can leak if they're left running for too long without being emptied or unplugged first. Be sure to turn off any unused appliances before leaving homes for extended periods of time.

Check your pipes.

When you check your pipes, look for leaks. If you find one, be sure to turn off the water supply before attempting repairs. If you don't know how to do this, call a professional plumber — the last thing you want is for the leak to get worse while your doors are open and exposed.

Next, check if any of your old pipes need replacing. You can tell if this is necessary when they're corroded or leaking. If so, make sure to use copper pipes rather than PVC or lead ones: copper won’t corrode as easily over time and will keep your home safer from flooding caused by broken plumbing systems during storms.

Clean up spills quickly.

• Clean up spills quickly. You should mop up small messes as soon as possible to avoid any damage from mold or mildew. If you have hardwood floors, vacuum them immediately with a soft brush attachment to get rid of dust, dirt and sand that can scratch your flooring over time.
• Protect electronic devices. It's best to keep your electronic devices off when it rains because they are more susceptible to water damage in wet conditions; however, if you do need to use them during a storm, make sure they're plugged in, so you don't have any power surges during weather events!
• Check gutters regularly for clogging debris such as leaves or branches that could result in flooding inside your home if left unchecked over time due to clogged gutters overflowing onto sidewalks/driveways below neighbors' homes who may not be able to see this happening until too late.

Knowing how to prevent water damage is half the battle.

Water damage is not only unpleasant to deal with, but it can also be expensive to repair. This is especially true if you have a basement or crawlspace and experience flooding during heavy rainstorms. If you know how to prevent water damage in your home, you can save yourself from having to pay for repairs down the road. The first thing that needs doing before any type of water damage occurs is making sure all appliances are working properly and are turned off when not in use. You should also keep an eye on those faucets and make sure they aren't leaking anywhere in the house by checking them regularly for drips or leaks.

If you do discover any leaks or drips around your house, try fixing them immediately instead of waiting until later because this will reduce the chance of bigger problems occurring later down the road

Water damage is a common problem, and it can be difficult to avoid if you aren’t prepared. But by following these tips and getting to know your Cleveland, FL home better, you’ll have a much better chance of stopping water damage before it happens. If you have water damage call SERVPRO of North Fort Myers, we are here to help!