Talk with your family about what to do if a winter storm watch or warning is issued. Discussing winter storms ahead of time helps reduce fear, particularly for young children.
Have your vehicle winterized before the winter storm season to decrease your chance of being stranded in cold weather.
Have a mechanic check your battery, antifreeze, wipers and windshield washer fluid, ignition system, thermostat, lights, flashing hazard lights, exhaust system, heater, brakes, defroster, and oil.
Install good winter tires with adequate tread. All-weather radials are usually adequate but some jurisdictions require vehicles to be equipped with chains or snow tires with studs.
Keep in your vehicle: - A windshield scraper and small broom - A small sack of sand for generating traction under wheels and a set of tire chains or traction mats - Matches in a waterproof container - A brightly colored (preferably red) cloth to tie to the antenna - An emergency supply kit, including warm clothing.
Keep your vehicle’s gas tank full so you can leave right away in an emergency and keep the fuel line from freezing.
Keep a supply of non-clumping kitty litter to make walkways and steps less slippery.
Service snow removal equipment before the winter storm season and maintain it in good working order.
Keep handy a warm coat, gloves or mittens, hat, water-resistant boots, and extra blankets and warm clothing for each member of the household.
Bring your companion animals indoors. - Ensure that you have supplies for clean-up for your companion animals, particularly if they are used to eliminating outdoors (large plastic bags, paper towels, and extra cat litter).
Create a place where your other animals can be comfortable in severe winter weather: - Horses and livestock should have a shelter where they can be protected from wind, snow, ice, and rain. - Grazing animals should have access to a protected supply of food and non-frozen water.
Be aware of the potential for flooding when snow and ice melt and be sure that your animals have access to high ground that is not impeded by fencing or other barriers. You may not be able to get to them in time to relocate them in the event of flooding. - Ensure that any outbuildings that house or shelter animals can withstand wind and heavy snow and ice- Install snow fences in rural areas to reduce drifting snow on roads and paths, which could block access to homes, barns, animal feed, and water.
Flooding is a coast-to-coast threat to the United States and its territories in all months of the year. Flooding typically occurs when prolonged rain falls over several days, when intense rain falls over a short period of time, or when an ice or debris jam causes a river or stream to overflow into local neighborhoods Flooding can also result from the failure of a water control structure, such as a levee or dam. The most common cause of the flooding is water due to rain and/or snowmelt that accumulates faster than soils can absorb it or rivers can carry it away. Approximately seventy-five percent of all Presidential disaster declarations are associated with flooding. Below are the most common flood hazards to impact the United States:
Flash Flooding
River Flooding
Storm Surge and Coastal Inundation from Tropical and Non-Tropical Systems
Burn Scars/Debris Flows
Ice/Debris Jams
Snowmelt
Dry Wash
Dam Breaks/Levee Failure
Our Water Damage Restoration Process
Every water damage situation is a little different and requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same. The steps listed below illustrate our process for the “typical” water damage emergency.
Step 1: Emergency Contact
Step 2: Inspection and Damage Assessment
Step 3: Water Removal/Water Extraction
Step 4: Drying and Dehumidification
Step 5: Cleaning and Repair
Step 6: Restoration
Have Storm or Flood Damage?
Call Us Today (610) - 667 -9080
Why Choose SERVPRO of Eastern Main Line / Bala Cynwyd?
We're Faster to Any Size Disaster
We’re dedicated to responding immediately to water and storm damage emergencies. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces cost.
We're Highly Trained Storm Damage Specialists
As a leader in storm and water damage restoration, SERVPRO of Eastern Main Line / Bala Cynwyd has the specialized training and expertise to restore your home back to its pre-storm condition. Our restoration process puts an emphasis on scientific drying techniques, progress monitoring, and documentation.
Water Damage Restoration Technician
Applied Structural Drying Technicians
We Have the Resources to Handle Storms and Disasters
We can access the resources and personnel of 1,700 Franchises to handle major storms and disasters. We also have access to special Disaster Recovery Teams strategically located throughout the country to respond to catastrophic storms and events.
Natural disasters that cause the power to go out in the middle of winter pose many potential problems for home and business owners alike.
1) Power outages have the potential to cause pipes to freeze which is a leading cause of water damage in the winter.
Right now Texans are struggling with this all-too-common problem. When homes or businesses are left without power for extended periods of time, it allows temperatures to dip below freezing allowing the pipes to freeze. This can cause cracks or bursts which lead to water damage.
One measure that can be taken to try and avoid this is to insulate the pipes. This can be done by visiting any local hardware store. Most hardware stores carry special tape, polyester coverings, and a host of other products that are capable of protecting against extreme dips in temperature.
If you have community, town, or city water and have not lost your water supply it may be a good idea to run the water source furthest from the water main. This can allow a steady flow of water to avoid pressure building up from the water in the pipes becoming frozen.
2) Power outages have the potential to cause a septic backup.
When there is a power outage, effluent is not pumped into the drain field. The septic and pump tank collects the wastewater throughout the power outage and will release it all at once when the power is restored and the pump starts. Too much water pumped at one time can flood the drain field, causing surfacing or backups.
3) Power outages can cause a loss of drinking water if you have a well.
Power outages can cause well pumps to stop working which can lead to loss of water supply. This includes water for drinking, showering, and toilets. Not having access to clean, drinkable water can lead to many other issues. It is important to store additional bottled water in order to avoid dehydration.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to Texans who will likely be recovering from this storm over the next several weeks. If there is anything to be learned from this terrible situation, it's that it is important to prepare for these types of disasters.
If disaster strikes and causes water damage, SERVPRO of Eastern Main Line / Bala Cynwyd can help.
Natural disasters that cause the power to go out in the middle of winter pose many potential problems for home and business owners alike.
1) Power outages have the potential to cause pipes to freeze which is a leading cause of water damage in the winter.
Right now Texans are struggling with this all-too-common problem. When homes or businesses are left without power for extended periods of time, it allows temperatures to dip below freezing allowing the pipes to freeze. This can cause cracks or bursts which lead to water damage.
One measure that can be taken to try and avoid this is to insulate the pipes. This can be done by visiting any local hardware store. Most hardware stores carry special tape, polyester coverings, and a host of other products that are capable of protecting against extreme dips in temperature.
If you have community, town, or city water and have not lost your water supply it may be a good idea to run the water source furthest from the water main. This can allow a steady flow of water to avoid pressure building up from the water in the pipes becoming frozen.
2) Power outages have the potential to cause a septic backup.
When there is a power outage, effluent is not pumped into the drain field. The septic and pump tank collects the wastewater throughout the power outage and will release it all at once when the power is restored and the pump starts. Too much water pumped at one time can flood the drain field, causing surfacing or backups.
3) Power outages can cause a loss of drinking water if you have a well.
Power outages can cause well pumps to stop working which can lead to loss of water supply. This includes water for drinking, showering, and toilets. Not having access to clean, drinkable water can lead to many other issues. It is important to store additional bottled water in order to avoid dehydration.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to Texans who will likely be recovering from this storm over the next several weeks. If there is anything to be learned from this terrible situation, it's that it is important to prepare for these types of disasters.
If disaster strikes and causes water damage, SERVPRO of Eastern Main Line can help.
Hurricane season is already among us. Businesses and homeowners everywhere should consider many things during hurricane season to prevent damage to their property. Many of them seem obvious, but others, not so much. What are some of these preparation tasks you might ask? Let's try to answer this question.
Building and Street Maintenance
Consider the last time you cleaned your storm drains. If they have not been cleared out in recent years, this could cause a blockage of water from draining away from your property. When water gets clogged in drains, this can lead to a backup. This means water will be coming back into your home or business and can cause very serious damage. If you have a shop vac (dry/wet vacuum), try to get some of the dirt and build up out of the drain. If you can’t clean it properly, call a professional.
Sump Pumps
Sump pumps are basically pumps used to get rid of water that has entered a building. When turned on, these pumps run water through a hose and outside of the property. If you own these pumps when was the last time they were tested? Do they have a battery backup in case of a power outage? Power outages cause almost 20 percent of water damage due to sump pumps not being able to run during these outages. If you do not own a sump pump, consider buying one especially if you commonly see water damage on site.
Generator Fuel Tanks
Many people like to store backup generators in their basements. This can be dangerous because if water seeps into your basement and gets into the fuel tanks, this will contaminate the gas and lead to failure to start the generator. In turn, this means no power and could lead to more damage.
Runoff
Does grading lead away from your building? Grading helps to move water away from your building instead of moving towards it. Checking your grading system can help keep water from flowing into your building.
Clear the Floor
One of the leading causes of water damage is the items on the floor. You can avoid this by removing porous materials, boxes, and paper from the floor of your basement. Keep all of your electronics off the floor and make sure to turn off your electronics when you are expecting heavy rains.
The Best Way To Minimize a Disaster at Your Home or Business is to Plan For it NOW!
As many as 50% of businesses may never recover following a disaster, according to the latest industry research. Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind. By developing a SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.
Are You Ready? Preparation is a key component for making it through any size disaster, whether it’s a small water leak, a large fire, or an area flood. The best time for planning for such events is not when the event happens, but well before it happens. No one ever plans on a disaster, but you can plan for it. Now is the time to ask yourself, “Are you ready for whatever could happen?” The SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile is a startup approach that provides the critical information needed to begin mitigation and recovery services. It is designed to serve as a quick reference for important building and contact information. By working with SERVPRO’s Emergency READY Profile, your business will receive the benefit of over 40 years of experience in reducing the impact of any natural or man-made disaster. SERVPRO® is a leader in water and fire damage response and can help you quickly get your property back in working order.
A no-cost assessment of your facility. This means there is no need to allocate funds, giving you a great value at no cost.
A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency. It will only take a little time to complete and will not take you away from current projects. But it will save a lot of time if ever needed.
A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster. This can help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive by having an immediate plan of action.
Establishes your local SERVPRO Franchise Professional as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider. You have a provider that is recognized as an industry leader and close by.
Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin. This saves time so we can begin the work of mitigating the damage which can save you time and money.
Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas, and priority contact information. Having a quick reference for what to do, how to do it, and who to call provides solutions in advance of an emergency so that during the emergency you are "Ready for whatever happens."
Storm damage can occur at any time and can cause an immense amount of harm to your home. Heavy rains can cause flooding and powerful winds can cause roof damage and downed trees on your property. Some post-storm damage can create safety and health hazards as well, so having a strategy to deal with damage will help you to be ready to take steps immediately after the storm.
Take Safety Precautions
Heavy winds and rain can create physical hazards such as collapsed roofing materials, window damage, collapsed walls, or standing water in the basement or home interior. In addition, moisture can soak into furniture, carpeting, and building materials making the perfect environment for mold growth that can cause health effects. Shut off the main gas line if you smell gas. Beware of broken glass, exposed nails, and other sharp objects on the property. Contact a reputable property restoration company to help do basic tasks to secure your property and make it safe to use. If necessary, arrange for an alternative place for you and your family to live while your property is being restored to safe living conditions.
Photograph the Damage
If it is safe to move around your property, use your cellphone or a camera to photograph the damage so that you will have a record for your insurance company. This action will ensure that you are fully compensated.
Contact Your Insurance Company
Contact your insurance agent to notify them about the damage to your home immediately. The company will send out an adjuster to determine the extent of the damage so that payment for repairs can be made.
Hurricane season has taken a toll on places like North Carolina and Florida. Businesses and homeowners everywhere should consider many things during hurricane season to prevent damage to their property. Many of them seem obvious, but others, not so much. What are some of these preparation tasks you might ask? Let us try to answer this question.
Building and Street Maintenance
Consider the last time you cleaned your storm drains. If they have not been cleared out in recent years, this could cause a blockage of water from draining away from your property. When water gets clogged in drains, this can lead to a back-up. This means water will be coming back into your home or business and can cause very serious damage. If you have a shop vac (dry/wet vacuum), try to get some of the dirt and build up out of the drain. If you can’t clean it properly, call a professional.
Sump Pumps
Sump pumps are basically pumps used to get rid of water that has entered a building. When turned on, these pumps run water through a hose and outside of the property. If you own these pumps when was the last time they were tested? Do they have a battery backup in case of a power outage? Power outages cause almost 20 percent of water damage due to sump pumps not being able to run during these outages. If you do not own a sump pump, consider buying one especially if you commonly see water damage on site.
Generator Fuel Tanks
Many people like to store back up generators in their basements. This can be dangerous because if water seeps into your basement and gets into the fuel tanks, this will contaminate the gas and lead to failure to start the generator. In turn, this means no power and could lead to more damage.
Runoff
Does grading lead away from your building? Grading helps to move water away from your building instead of moving towards it. Checking your grading system can help keep water from flowing into your building.
Clear the Floor
One of the leading causes of water damage is the items on the floor. You can avoid this by removing porous materials, boxes, and paper from the floor of your basement. Keep all of your electronics off the floor and make sure to turn off your electronics when you are expecting heavy rains.
When Storms hit Eastern Main Line/Bala Cynwyd, SERVPRO is ready!
SERVPRO of Eastern Main Line/Bala Cynwyd 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, 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.
Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 610-667-9080
Winter storms create a higher risk of car accidents, hypothermia, frostbite, carbon monoxide poisoning, and heart attacks from overexertion. Winter storms and blizzards can bring extreme cold, freezing rain, snow, ice, and high winds. A winter storm can:
Last a few hours or several days;
Knock out heat, power, and communication services; and
Place older adults, young children, and sick individuals at greater risk.
IF YOU ARE UNDER A WINTER STORM WARNING, FIND SHELTER RIGHT AWAY
Stay off roads.
Stay indoors and dress warmly.
Prepare for power outages.
Use generators outside only and away from windows.
Listen for emergency information and alerts.
Look for signs of hypothermia and frostbite.
Check on neighbors.
HOW TO STAY SAFE WHEN A WINTER STORM THREATENS:
Prepare NOW
Know your area’s risk for winter storms. Extreme winter weather can leave communities without utilities or other services for long periods of time.
Prepare your home to keep out the cold with insulation, caulking, and weather stripping. Learn how to keep pipes from freezing. Install and test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors with battery backups.
Pay attention to weather reports and warnings of freezing weather and winter storms. Sign up for your community’s warning system. The Emergency Alert System (EAS) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio also provide emergency alerts.
Gather supplies in case you need to stay home for several days without power. Keep in mind each person’s specific needs, including medication. Do not forget the needs of pets. Have extra batteries for radios and flashlights.
Create an emergency supply kit for your car. Include jumper cables, sand, a flashlight, warm clothes, blankets, bottled water, and non-perishable snacks. Keep the gas tank full.
Learn the signs of, and basic treatments for, frostbite and hypothermia.
Survive DURING
Stay off roads if at all possible. If trapped in your car, then stay inside.
Limit your time outside. If you need to go outside, then wear layers of warm clothing. Watch for signs of frostbite and hypothermia.
Avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Only use generators and grills outdoors and away from windows. Never heat your home with a gas stovetop or oven.
Reduce the risk of a heart attack. Avoid overexertion when shoveling snow.
Watch for signs of frostbite and hypothermia and begin treatment right away.
Check on neighbors. Older adults and young children are more at risk in extreme cold.
RECOGNIZE AND RESPOND
Frostbite causes loss of feeling and color around the face, fingers, and toes.
Signs: Numbness, white or grayish-yellow skin, firm or waxy skin
Actions: Go to a warm room. Soak in warm water. Use body heat to warm. Do not massage or use a heating pad.
Hypothermia is an unusually low body temperature. A temperature below 95 degrees is an emergency.
Actions: Go to a warm room. Warm the center of the body first—chest, neck, head, and groin. Keep dry and wrapped up in warm blankets, including the head and neck.
THE CALM BEFORE THE STORM: PREPARING YOUR ROOF AGAINST HAILSTORMS
While the Spring season in Texas equals great temperature and fun outdoorsy activities, consider yourself warned. March begins the yearly hail season—ice as big as golf balls wreak havoc by causing leaky roofs, dented siding, and accidents if you’re caught outside during a storm.
NOAA’s Severe Storms database records over 5,396 major hail storms by last year, 2019. According to the U.S. Department of Commerce, Storm Prediction Center, National Weather Service, Texas ranks first at the Top Five States By Number Of Major Hail Events. For hail-prone areas, it’s best to be ready for any circumstances that could happen.
Once the storm starts, there is pretty much nothing you can do except to stay inside. It’s safer to double-check everything beforehand, including the things that you can minimize damage to. Safe-proof your home before hail season starts and take precautions that could help lessen the damages.
For everyone’s safety, stay indoors. Pay attention to weather reports to be prepared and shop for groceries, flashlights, and batteries. Close your doors and windows and stay away because of the risks of flying glass.
GUTTER CHECK!
Drains and gutters could easily be filled by fallen leaves, debris from trees, and hailstones. They stop water flow due to clogging and cause damage due to the lack of proper drainage. As a solution, drain these areas. Keep your gutters free from debris that could cause water to back up and potentially cause leaks in the future. This is to ensure that water could drain normally.
MAINTAIN YOUR LAWN.
Amid a really bad hail storm, branches and plants can pose a threat to your home. Tree branches could hit your windows and shutter glass. For safety reasons, trim tree and shrub branches that could potentially cause extensive damage to your property. Maintaining your lawn helps eliminate risks of the upcoming storm.
TAKE YOUR STUFF INDOORS.
Branches and shrubs aren’t the only things that pose a threat against your windows. If possible, take your outdoor furniture and decoration indoors to avoid them becoming hailstone targets and projectiles.
A HAND IN REPAIRS: YOUR INSURANCE POLICY.
After the storm and the damage has been done, check in with your insurance company before authorizing repair work needed. Document the damages and call the company as soon as possible.
INSPECT YOUR ROOF (DO IT PERSONALLY, OR GET A SECOND OPINION).
Before anything else, contacting a professional roofing company to inspect your roof and prepare you against the future dangers of the storm might be better.
Your roof protects you against heavy rain and the scorching sun. It also protects you against hailstones. As it is everyone’s first line of defense against the hail season, repairs are a must. Make sure to inspect your roof regularly. Check for loose or missing shingles and have them repaired as soon as possible to prevent future problems. Loose shingles could cause possible leaking due to the upcoming hail season. If there are small dents in the area, have them inspected. Or consider improving your current option to a material that’s much more resistant.
Rain can be unpredictable enough, but when storm damage is involved it can make matters even more complicated. In fact, a local office building experienced just that. Through the holiday season, they were closed for business and did not discover the damage from the rain until the office manager returned two days later.
When she and the rest of the staff saw that every inch of the carpet was soaked and files in cardboard boxes have been saturated, they began to panic. When we arrived on the scene, we let them know everything was going to be okay. Our production team began to extract water immediately from the wet carpet while the production manager measured what areas were wet and which were dry in the corners. After thoroughly checking for moisture, extracting all water and drying for a few days, we were able to save the carpet, saving the office and property manager hundreds of dollars.
If you have water damage due to a recent storm, let our office help! Give us a call at 215-877-6653 to schedule an inspection today. Our team is standing by and would be happy to help.
Chances are you don't clean your coffee maker as often as you should. In fact, 50 percent of these household machines contain yeast and mold, according to one survey. That makes it more germ-infested than your average bathroom faucet handle.
To make sure you don't drink up any of the germs or coliform bacteria this appliance has been known to grow, we asked Caolyn Forte, director of the Good Housekeeping Institute of Home Appliances & Cleaning Lab, how to keep your machine clean and your coffee tasting great. It's essential to follow these three rules:
1. Wash removable parts with dish soap after every use.
"This is important because it helps remove coffee, grinds and oil that are left behind," said Forte. "You can hand-wash at the sink with warm and soapy water, but usually, the pieces are dishwasher-safe. And don't forget to wipe down the outside and the warming plate where spills can burn on." She also recommends leaving the reservoir's lid open so it can dry out completely after each use — germs love moisture!
2. De-calcify your machine every month with vinegar.
Over time, hard water minerals can build up in your machine's inner workings, and you may notice that your coffee takes longer to drip. To get things back in tip-top shape, you need to cleanse and de-calcify the machine. Forte's trick: good ole reliable white vinegar.
Fill the reservoir with equal parts vinegar and water and place a paper filter into the machine's empty basket. Position the pot in place and "brew" the solution halfway. Turn off the machine and let it sit for 30 minutes. Then, turn the coffee maker back on, finish the brewing and dump the full pot of vinegar and water. Rinse everything out by putting in a new paper filter and brewing a full pot of clean water. Repeat once.
3. Make your carafe sparkle again with rice.
You should always wash your carafe after each use, but if it's looking dingy over time, fill it with warm, sudsy water and a little rice. Swirl the mixture to loosen any gunk. Use a scrub sponge to remove debris and rinse well.
Preparing For The Last of Winter Weather This Season
Winter storms create a higher risk of car accidents, hypothermia, frostbite, carbon monoxide poisoning, and heart attacks from overexertion. Winter storms and blizzards can bring extreme cold, freezing rain, snow, ice, and high winds. A winter storm can:
Last a few hours or several days;
Knock out heat, power, and communication services; and
Place older adults, young children, and sick individuals at greater risk.
IF YOU ARE UNDER A WINTER STORM WARNING, FIND SHELTER RIGHT AWAY
Stay off roads.
Stay indoors and dress warmly.
Prepare for power outages.
Use generators outside only and away from windows.
Listen for emergency information and alerts.
Look for signs of hypothermia and frostbite.
Check on neighbors.
HOW TO STAY SAFE WHEN A WINTER STORM THREATENS:
Prepare NOW
Know your area’s risk for winter storms. Extreme winter weather can leave communities without utilities or other services for long periods of time.
Prepare your home to keep out the cold with insulation, caulking, and weather stripping. Learn how to keep pipes from freezing. Install and test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors with battery backups.
Pay attention to weather reports and warnings of freezing weather and winter storms. Sign up for your community’s warning system. The Emergency Alert System (EAS) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio also provide emergency alerts.
Gather supplies in case you need to stay home for several days without power. Keep in mind each person’s specific needs, including medication. Do not forget the needs of pets. Have extra batteries for radios and flashlights.
Create an emergency supply kit for your car. Include jumper cables, sand, a flashlight, warm clothes, blankets, bottled water, and non-perishable snacks. Keep the gas tank full.
Learn the signs of, and basic treatments for, frostbite and hypothermia.
Heavy thunderstorms are known to cause flooding both inside and outside of the house. Here are a few tips of what to do if your house has flooded during this storm season.
What To Do After Flooding
Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and tabletop items.
Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.
Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions.
Turn on the air conditioning for maximum drying during the summer months.
Remove art objects to a safe, dry place and remove colored rugs from wet carpeting.
Gather loose items from the floor.
What NOT To Do After Flooding
Do not leave books, magazines or other colored items on wet carpet or floors.
Don’t leave wet fabrics in place. Hang furs and leather goods.
Don’t use your household vacuum to remove the water.
Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet and avoid being in rooms where the ceilings are sagging.
Do not use the your television or other household appliances.
In 2019, we have been experiencing a pretty mild winter so far. There have been a few frigid days but there have also been a couple days where we almost hit 60 degrees! This doesn't seem quite normal but we are not complaining. One thing a mild winter means is more rain. After a summer that was noted for its high rain falls, many of our yards are very saturated with water. When the soil is already saturated it makes it more likely that your basement will flood after another rain storm. The rain can travel more fluidly through this saturated soil so this is what causes the flooding. At SERVPRO, we make it "Like it never even happened." Call SERVPRO of Eastern Main Line/Bala Cynwyd at 610-667-9080 when you have a flood!
The official high in Philadelphia on Monday, 60, fell short of the daily record, but the weather did quite a decent impersonation of April, and forecasters say February won’t act much like itself until the weekend — at the earliest.
Daytime readings will be well above averages through the workweek, and it’s at least possible that the thermometer makes a run at 60 again Thursday night or early Friday. Overnight lows Tuesday and Wednesday will be above the average daytime highs. And rain, maybe lots of it, is in the forecast for Tuesday through Friday.
Punxsutawney Phil, the prognosticating rodent, might be on to something. In case you missed it, he failed to see his shadow on Sunday, the folklore harbinger of an early spring.
Computer models are saying not so fast, suggesting hints of at least a modest transition to winter during the second half of the weekend and perhaps later in the month. Temperatures on Saturday will be close to where they should be, with highs in the lower 40s.
A major winter storm is moving out of California, but not before dumping as much 3 feet of snow in northern Ventura and Kern counties, and up to 3.46” of rain in Los Angeles County and 3.19" in San Bernardino County.
There were numerous reports of flooding from Los Angeles down to San Diego, where people had to be rescued from the water. Roads and highways were shut down due to snow in the higher elevations in Southern California.
An EF-0 tornado was also confirmed in Ventura County Wednesday into Thursday, with some damage reported.
Ahead of the storm this morning, 14 states are under snow alerts from California to Minnesota.
This morning the storm system is still in the Southwest, bringing heavy rain to Arizona and New Mexico with heavy snow in the mountains.
By Saturday, the storm system is expected to move into the center of the country, bringing heavy snow for the Plains and heavy rain in the Great Lakes and Midwest, with severe storms possible further south from Texas to Tennessee.
(WTNH)– October is Car Care month and AAA Northeast has a few tips to keep your car running safe and smooth.
AAA Northeast spokeswoman, Fran Mayko says, “Learning how to handle common maintenance issues benefits anyone who gets behind the wheel since proper maintenance can also extend the life of your vehicle and prevent costly repairs.”
AAA recommends four easy car care practices that everyone can perform:
Ensure your car battery is properly charged
Check your tire wear and tire pressure regularly
Inspect those windshield wipers and replace if they’re worn, cracked or rigid.
Work with a local repair shop you trust for routine maintenance and repair.
Other easy tricks to prepare your car for the upcoming winter season include:
Testing your battery and charging system if the car battery is more than three years old.
Making sure your coolant contains a 50/50 solution of coolant and water that protects your engine at temperatures of -34 degrees or colder.
Double checking the hoses in your car aren’t cracked or brittle and check that the clamps aren’t loose.
Making sure your washer fluid has components of antifreeze, which protects against below freezing temperatures. And on especially icy mornings make sure the washer fluid reservoir is filled. (If you don’t wish to purchase winter tires for your car, remember that all season tires only work best in light-to-moderate snow conditions.)
Checking tires for uneven wear or cupping on tires, which can lead to alignment, balance and suspensions problems further down the line.
Replacing windshield wiper blades that leave streaks or miss spots on your windshield. (A winter alternative for your wipers are winter blades, which protect the blades against snow an ice buildup.)
Making sure to change your oil according to your manufacturers recommendations. Remember to also double check your transmission fluid while you’re at it.
AAA wants all motorists to be safe during the winter season and practicing the above tips can help keep the cold out and your car cruising.
Southern California Experiences Odd Lightning Storm
(CNN) - Residents in Southern California may have thought they were elsewhere in the United States as they witnessed a powerful display of lightning in the night sky Tuesday.
Approximately 2,200 lightning strikes hit the area stretching from Santa Barbara County to LA County, according to Curt Kaplan, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Oxnard.A strong batch of thunderstorms created "lightning storms," the NWS Los Angeles said -- prompting the agency to alert residents to take precautions as they peeked at the power of mother nature. Mike Eliason, Santa Barbara Fire's public information officer, captured dramatic bolts of lightning over Santa Barbara. The pictures resembled a scene one would see in Florida, which has been dubbed the lightning capital of the US.
What's driving this strange weather pattern?
Meteorologists called this phenomenon the Atmospheric River, where the jet stream is coming further south and pushing an abundant amount of moisture into the area, Kaplan said. But this strange event, is just another weird weather occurrence this winter -- the area last month had a dusting of snow along the coastline in areas including Malibu. "For Southern California, its unusual," Kaplan told CNN. Lightning typically hits the area in the deserts during the summer monsoonal season.
As many as 50% of businesses may never recover following a disaster, according to the latest industry research. Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind. By developing a SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.
Are You Ready? Preparation is a key component for making it through any size disaster, whether it’s a small water leak, a large fire or an area flood. The best time for planning for such events is not when the event happens, but well before it happens. No one ever plans on a disaster, but you can plan for it. Now is the time to ask yourself, “Are you ready for whatever could happen?” The SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile is a start up approach that provides the critical information needed to begin mitigation and recovery services. It is designed to serve as a quick reference of important building and contact information. By working with SERVPRO’s Emergency READY Profile, your business will receive the benefit of over 40 years of experience in reducing the impact of any natural or man-made disaster. SERVPRO® is a leader in water and fire damage response and can help you quickly get your property back in working order.
A no cost assessment of your facility. This means there is no need to allocate funds, giving you a great value at no cost.
A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency. It will only take a little time to complete and will not take you away from current projects. But it will save a lot of time if ever needed.
A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster. This can help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive by having an immediate plan of action.
Establishes your local SERVPRO Franchise Professional as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider. You have a provider that is recognized as an industry leader and close by.
Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin. This saves time so we can begin the work of mitigating the damage which can save you time and money.
Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information. Having a quick reference of what to do, how to do it and who to call provides solutions in advance of an emergency so that during the emergency you are "Ready for whatever happens."
In 2019, we have been experiencing a pretty mild winter so far. There have been a few frigid days but there have also been a couple days where we almost hit 60 degrees! This doesn't seem quite normal but we are not complaining. One thing a mild winter means is more rain. After a summer that was noted for its high rain falls, many of our yards are very saturated with water. When the soil is already saturated it makes it more likely that your basement will flood after another rain storm. The rain can travel more fluidly through this saturated soil so this is what causes the flooding. At SERVPRO, we make it "Like it never even happened." Call SERVPRO of Eastern Main Line/Bala Cynwyd at 610-667-9080 when you have a flood!
Driving in the colder months can bring its own set of challenges, depending on where you live.
The days are getting shorter and the weather is getting colder, making driving conditions a little trickier.
With all the holiday travel you’re sure to be doing, it’s important to make sure you have the right emergency supplies in your car.
The most important items to have are things that will keep you warm, like gloves, wool socks and hand warmers.
Blankets are great to have on hand. If it’s really cold, you can use them to insulate your car – putting them in the windows helps prevent the cold air from getting in.
And make sure you have a cellphone charger and a flashlight with extra batteries.
Cold weather maintenance is also important.
AAA has a list of tips to ensure your car is in good running order when temperatures drop, including:
Making sure the battery is in good condition and clear of corrosion
Checking tire treads and installing snow tires where needed
Confirming that all lights and signals work
Verifying that brakes are in great working order
Taking care of your car can mean the difference between life and death on the road
During this time of season snow blowers are popular, but it's safety is a big deal if you are not careful.
If you are using a snow blower, you should watch out for items on your property that can jam up the snow blower. Some common items are doormats and pet toys.
When you are running a snow blower be sure you are not wearing any loose clothing. It's important to always wear tight clothing to prevent any accidents.
Most importantly never put your hand in the front end of the snow blower to remove items. That rule still applies when the machine is not moving, because there is tension on the belt. You can remove items by using a stick or a broom.
Owner of Kirkwood Ace Hardware, Jeff Hinz, says it's better to be safe than sorry.
"We see a lot of people with snow blower injuries and it's generally fingers and digits from the front. If you check any type of medical site you will see that snow blowers are a major cause of injury during the winter. Always stay behind the machine, wear shoes with a good grip so you don't slip and fall," Hinz said.
These are just a few tips to make your experience with a snow blower a good one.
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