Recent Storm Damage Posts

What Should I Do if Lightening Strikes?

5/24/2023 (Permalink)

When a strong storm passes through our community it can catch us off guard.  After the storm has passed and when it is safe it is important to assess the property to determine if damage has occurred and get started with any potential cleanup and restoration. SERVPRO of York, James City County & Poquoson is here to help with your Storm Damage Repair.

Below is some helpful information about different types of storms that can bring on damage to your property and how you may be able to protect its value.

Lighting Storm Damage

Lighting can be so pretty to look at from the comfort of your home but oh so dangerous at the same time, there are three common types of lightning: cloud to ground, cloud to cloud, and cloud to air. Cloud-to-ground lightning is the most dangerous. The ground is mainly consisted of positively charged particles while the bottom of violent storm clouds have negatively charged particles.

Winter Storm Damage

Winter Storms not only wreak havoc but also can cause the formation of Ice Dams. Ice dams are caused by heavy snowfall or ice build-up on your roof. These can go undetected and cause many problems, not the least of which is water damage in addition to structural deterioration and leaks. When water builds up in an ice dam, it backs up under shingles, leaks into a house, and causes major water damage to your property.

Frozen Pipes

Frozen pipes are a problem for several different reasons. While not only creating an inconvenience - more seriously it can cause major damage to your home or business. If you see visible frost on the outside of your exposed pipes, detect slow or uneven water flow across your property, or feel your walls getting damp, it's critical that you act fast. Even if your pipes haven't entirely burst, it's a good idea to reach out to a restoration expert to prevent any further damage.

York County Storm Help

5/24/2023 (Permalink)

radar image of VA SERVPRO® is ready.

Hurricane season is slowly approaching. It officially starts on June 1st through November 30th.  While the York / Poquoson area does not often does not experience hurricanes directly, we feel the effects that it has as the rain moves from the beach closer to our communities. The last direct hurricane that the area has had occurred more than 60 years ago. Hurricane Hazel arrive on October 15, 1954. The Category 4 hurricane began to travel from up the Atlantic coast after first hitting North and South Carolina.  When "Hurricane" Isabelle (which was actually a Tropical Storm) hit our area the devastation was wide spread. 

While these events may not seem entirely very common in our region it is still important to know who to call incase an emergency occurring.

Experiencing any water or wind damage due to an unpredictable storm? Give SERVPRO® of York, James City County & Poquoson a call at 757-229-3442 or toll free at 1-

How to Prepare Your Home for A Storm

5/23/2023 (Permalink)

How to Prepare Your Home for a Storm

While summer typically means warmer weather, it can also bring a variety of harsh weather conditions, sometimes leading to severe storms.

Homeowners can take preventative measures to help reduce damage if and when a severe storm hits. 

Clear limbs and trim trees

During a storm, dead tree limbs can get loose and cause damage to a home’s exterior or even puncture a window. Heavy rain can also cause trees with shallow root systems to pull out of the ground.

Secure fences

Ensure that your fences are properly secured so to help prevent them from being lifted up and thrown against the house by heavy winds.

Secure furniture

Heavy winds can cause items like patio furniture and large toys to damage the exterior of your home. It’s a good idea to anchor outdoor furniture or bring it indoors before a storm hits. You should also move anything in your yard that can become flying debris inside your house or garage.

Check gutters

Help prevent damage inside your house by having downspouts drain away from your home and clear your gutters of any debris. This includes making sure your horizontal gutters are free from seasonal leaves that have fallen. 

Protect the critical areas

Wind is a major threat to your roof, windows, doors and garage doors. Either you or a building contractor can build and install temporary protection, such as approved wind shutters or plywood on windows and coverings for patio and entry doors, strengthen and stiffen garage doors, and install heavy-duty door hardware.

Protect your valuables

Protect mementos in waterproof containers and/or take the items with you if you evacuate. Inventory valuables and contents in the home with pictures or video. Note the approximate value of each item and the date of purchase. You can also send an inventory to a family member outside your region for safekeeping. Also, make sure important documents, such as an insurance policy or mortgage papers, are stored in a safe deposit or fire safe box.

Stock a basic emergency kit

A true emergency can leave you without basic services, including electricity, water, gas or sewage, for a few hours or a few days. Stock your family’s emergency kit with enough food, water and supplies to carry all of you through at least three days—and restock your kit once the emergency has passed. Be sure to include:

  • Water: One gallon per person per day to cover drinking and sanitation
  • Food: At least a three-day supply of food per person
  • Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
  • Hand-crank flashlight
  • First aid kit
  • Cell phone with charger
  • Local maps

Create a family emergency plan

Staying connected is of the utmost importance during an emergency. Designate an out-of-town family member or friend to be your check-in person in case local phone lines are down. Make sure every member of your family knows that contact’s number and has a way to reach him or her—ideally a cell phone and charger or a prepaid calling card.

Choose a local place where your family members should meet if they are separated when an emergency strikes and your home is unsafe. This might be a landmark or even a parent’s workplace.

Know your policy

It’s critical to read and understand your insurance policy. Then, examine your property to ensure there are no physical or liability hazards.

Know Who to Call

It's important to know who to call when there is damage to your home or business.  Get your numbers ready before the need arises.   At SERVPRO of York, James City County & Poquoson we will always work to make your damage  "Like it Never Even Happened". 

Reference: https://news.nationwide.com/how-to-prepare-your-home-for-a-storm/

Don't worry, we've got it!

5/23/2023 (Permalink)

People Helping We're here to help.

It hard to predict when disaster can happen. With that being said, it is always a good idea to have a backup plan or you can always give SERVPRO of York, James City County & Poquoson a call to take care of it for you. We are always ready to help, even if it is a few days after a storm and tragedy doesn't happen until after. Doesn’t matter is you call us the day of or a few days later, SERVPRO of York, James City County & Poquoson is always prepared and here to help make sure things are back to normal for our customers. Give us a call today at 757-229-3442 or toll free at 1-800-889-5002

What to do if a Storm passes through.

5/23/2023 (Permalink)

When a strong storm passes through our community it can catch us off guard.  After the storm has passed and when it is safe it is important to assess the property to determine if damage has occurred and get started with any potential cleanup and restoration. SERVPRO of York, James City County & Poquoson is here to help with your Storm Damage Repair.

Below is some helpful information about different types of storms that can bring on damage to your property and how you may be able to protect its value.

Lighting Storm Damage

Lighting can be so pretty to look at  from the comfort of your home but oh so dangerous at the same time, there are three common types of lightning: cloud to ground, cloud to cloud and cloud to air. Cloud to ground lightning is the most dangerous. The ground is mainly consisted of positively charged particles while the bottom of violent storm clouds have negative charged particles.

Winter Storm Damage

Winter Storms not only wreak havoc but also can cause the formation of Ice Dams. Ice dams are caused by heavy snowfall or ice build-up on your roof. These can go undetected and cause many problems, not the least of which is water damage in addition to structural deterioration and leaks. When water builds up in an ice dam, it backs up under shingles, leaks into a house, and causes major water damage to your property.

Frozen Pipes

Frozen pipes are a problem for several different reasons. While not only creating an inconvenience - more seriously it can cause major damage to your home or business. If you see visible frost on the outside of your exposed pipes, detect slow or uneven water flow across your property, or feel your walls getting damp, it's critical that you act fast. Even if your pipes haven't entirely burst, it's a good idea to reach out to a restoration expert to prevent any further damage.

Do You Have A Storm Emergency Kit?

12/16/2021 (Permalink)

Every family should have a Storm Readiness Kit, and it's never too early to prepare your family and your home for hurricanes, severe weather or natural disasters. Use this how-to guide to help you prepare storm kits ranging from 48 hours to 1 week or more without electricity. Every family should have a storm readiness kit.

The Basic Kit: 48 hours

This storm kit will get your family through 48 hours without electricity and basic services and help you deal with storm- related emergencies.

Include all of these items in the basic kit:

  •  Plastic container with a tight-fitting lid or a waterproof duffel bag This will hold your kit.
  • General First Aid Kit Bandages, antiseptic wipes, aspirin and non- aspirin pain relievers, gauze, small scissors, antacid, laxatives, anti-diarrhea medication. Many preassembled kits are available at Lowes.
  • Large tarp
  • Rope or tarp tie-downs
  • Flashlights One per family member is best, plus extra batteries.
  • Battery-operated radio and extra batteries
  • Plastic garbage bags
  • Extra propane for gas grill or other cooking device
  • Roll of plastic sheeting
  • Light sticks
  • Blankets One per family member. Sleeping bags are a good alternative.
  • Whistles One per family member, to help locate each other.
  • This Storm Guide, with important phone numbers filled in.
  • Important papers A copy of your insurance policies, health insurance cards, your IDs, government benefit eligibility documents, etc.
  • Cash Include small bills.
  • Adapter for car cigarette lighter to recharge cell phone
  • Map showing shelter locations
  • Personal items Toilet tissue, toothbrushes, toothpaste and denture needs, feminine hygiene items, paper towels, hand wipes. If you have a baby in the house, include a supply of diapers, wipes, formula, and any other special needs.
  • Paper and pencils
  • Non-electric can opener
  • Food Two days worth of packaged meats, fruit and vegetables, canned or bottled juice, energy/high- protein bars. Baby food and pet food, if necessary. Check dates and replace expired items every six months.
  • Have a three-day supply of water.
    • Allow one gallon per person per day. If you have been warned of severe weather and have sufficient time, fill sinks, tubs and buckets with water. This water can be used for hygiene and the water in your kit can be saved for consumption. Ceramic water filters or purification tablets, such as those used by campers, are also great for emergency water purification. Replace water supply every 12 months.
  • Prescription medications and other medical needs.

The Upgraded Kit: 3-4 days

If you’d like to feel more comfortable about your ability to survive a severe storm and you have the resources, consider an upgrade of the basic storm kit. The upgraded kit will help you through three to four days without electricity and other services.

Include all of the items in the basic kit plus add the following items:

  • Pliers or Multi-tool
  • Duct tape and scissors
  • Work gloves
  • Safety glasses
  • Water jugs For additional drinking/hygiene water.
  • Wrench if needed to shut off water or gas
  • Blankets. At least one per family member.
  • Whistles
  • This Storm Guide, with important phone numbers filled in
  • Important papers
  • Cash
  • Adapter for car cigarette lighter to recharge cell phone
  • Map showing shelter locations
  • Personal items
  • Paper and pencils
  • Non-electric can opener
  • Food
  • Water
  • Prescription medications and other medical needs
  • Clothing
    • At least one complete change of clothes per family member. Remember to keep current with the temperature conditions.
  • Additional Toiletries
    • Shampoo, soap, razors, vitamins, contact lens supplies, sun block and insect repellent.
  • Rain gear. Enough for at least one family member.
  • Books and games. For children and adults.
  • Additional food. For two additional days.
  • Additional water. For two additional days.

The Ultimate Kit: 1 week or more

If you live in a remote area, care for an elderly or physically challenged child or adult, or if you simply want maximum preparedness, this is the kit for you. It will help you through one week without electricity and basic services, or through catastrophic conditions.

Include all items in both the basic and upgraded kits plus add the following:

  • Fire extinguisher
  • Paper cups, plates and plasticware
  • Dust masks. One per person.
  • Additional tarp and rope
  • Disinfectant (bleach)
  • Ceramic water filter or water purifying chemicals
  • Pillows, earplugs and eye covers that may help you sleep
  • Matches in waterproof container
  • Portable air cleaner with HEPA filter
  • Signal flare

For more information and to print your storm guide please visit Make Your Own Storm Kits (DIY) | Family Handyman

What about a Car Emergency Kit? Do you have one?

12/16/2021 (Permalink)

We talk about preparing your homes and business for storms & emergencies but many people overlook being prepared in their vehicles too. Since some of us spend hours in our vehicle its important to always be prepared for an emergency.

Here is a list of items you should have in your kits.

Survival Car Emergency Kit

  • First Aid Kit
  • Water
  • Non-perishable foods
  • blankets
  • seat belt cutter & window breaker tools
  • fire extinguisher
  • cell phone & charger
  • duct tape

Road side Emergency Kit

  • flashlight
  • toolkit
  • road flares or reflective triangles
  • tow strap or tow rope
  • antifreeze/coolant
  • jumper cables
  • tire gauge
  • spare tire
  • tire iron & jack
  • aerosol tire sealant

Winter Car Emergency Kit

  • non-clumping kitty litter
  • ice scraper & snow brush
  • foldable shovel
  • hand warmers
  • emergency blanket

Store your car DIY car emergency kit in an easy-to-grab duffel bag or plastic bin in your trunk or backseat floor, or a built-in toolbox, if you have one.

Food should be stored in a food-grade bucket or plastic dry cooler, which you can include inside your car or as a separate container with your car emergency kit. Be sure to check your kit every 6 months to update expired items.

SERVPRO Of York, James City County & Poquoson wants to make sure that you are prepared in case of a storm or emergency while on the road.

source: The Complete Car Emergency Kit List + [Printable] (utires.com)

Know Who to Call in James City County After a Storm

5/11/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of York, James City County, and Poquoson specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit James City County, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Give SERVPRO of York, James City County, and Poquoson acall 757-229-3442.

York Homeowners Stay Up to Date on Storms

5/10/2021 (Permalink)

Wireless Emergency Alerts or WEAs are emergency messages sent by authorized government alerting authorities through your mobile carrier. Government partners included local and state public safety agencies, FEMA, the FCC, the Department of Homeland Security, and the National Weather Service. Alerts received at the right time can help keep you safe during an emergency with WEA, alerts can be sent to your mobile device when you may be in harm's way, without need to download an app or subscribe to a service WEA may share:

  • Extreme weather warnings
  • Local emergencies requiring evacuation or immediate action
  • AMBER Alerts
  • Presidential Alerts during a national emergency

In case of an emergency SERVPRO of York, James City County, Poquoson is here. Give us a call at 757-229-3442.

A WEA will look like a text message on your mobile device. The WEA message will typical show the type and time of the alert, any action you should take, and the agency issuing the alert. The message will be no more than 90 characters.

Sever Weather in York

5/7/2021 (Permalink)

List of do's and don'ts to help minimize storm damage. Do's and Don'ts to Help Minimize Storm Damage

Storms can happen anytime, anywhere. Each year, Americas cope with an average of the following intense storms:

  • 10,000 severe thunderstorms
  • 5,000 floods or flash floods
  • 1,000 tornadoes
  • 2 land falling deadly hurricanes

Approximately 98% of all presidentially declared disaster are weather-related, leading to around 500 deaths per year and nearly $15 billion in damage. Knowing your risk of severe weather, taking action and being an example are just a few steps you can take to be better prepared to save your life and assist in saving the lives of others.

Know Your Risk.

The first step to becoming weather-ready is to understand the type of hazardous weather that can affect where you live and work, and how the weather could impact you, your business and your family. Check the weather forecast regularly, obtain a NOAA Weather Radio, and learn about Wireless Emergency Alerts. Severe weather comes in many forms and your shelter plan should include all types of local hazards.

Take Action.

Take the next step in severe weather preparedness by creating a communications plan for your home and business. Put together or purchase an emergency kit. Keep important papers and valuables in a safe place.

Be an Example.

Once you have taken action to prepare for severe weather, share your story with co-workers and family and friends on Facebook or Twitter. Your preparedness story will inspire other to do the same.

Experiencing any damage due to wind or rain? Give SERVPRO of York, James City County, and Poquoson at 757-229-3442.

Source: Newport News Storm Ready Community

When Storms or Floods hit James City County, SERVPRO is ready!

5/2/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of York, James City County, and Poquoson specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit James City County, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,900 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Give SERVPRO of York, James City County and Poquoson a call 757-229-3442.

Hurricane Season

5/22/2018 (Permalink)

Here are some stats and safety tips

The peak time of the year for hurricanes here in the Atlantic region is June-November. One the pacific the peak time of year is May- November. Our franchise has traveled all across the country cleaning up after hurricanes. No distance is too far for us.

  • Did you know the force of a hurricane is from 74-155+ miles per hour?

The cost of hurricane damage is usually a couple million per storm. Hurricane Sandy though caused nearly $62 billion in damages once it hit the USA. Our franchise spent a month in New Jersey doing storm work. $128 billion in damages was caused by Hurricane Katrina. Our owner Joey and another franchise spent over 5 months together in Louisiana cleaning up after Katrina.