Arm Your Employees With Fire Extinguisher Training | SERVPRO® of Rockwall/Rowlett

1/14/2025 (Permalink)

Dealing with the aftermath of a commercial fire? SERVPRO of Rockwall/Rowlett is your local restoration expert.

As business owners and commercial property owners, avoiding emergencies and disasters is always a top priority. Not only can emergencies cause widespread devastation, but they can be a danger to your employees as well! This is certainly true when it comes to fire in the workplace.

If your employees don’t have the basic fire safety skills they need, it could create a chaotic situation that can easily get out of control. By focusing your efforts on training them on fire extinguisher use, you can greatly increase your chances of your employees responding appropriately and efficiently.

The Basics of Fire Safety

Did you know that OSHA requires all businesses that have a fire extinguisher on the premises to train their employees on its use? Since every business should have a fire extinguisher, that means you should be explaining how to use one, when to use one and what the different kinds mean.

Don’t be afraid to let your employees get hands-on with your fire extinguisher! Let them hold it, practice aiming and even pretend to fight a fire by sweeping across some imaginary flames. Make sure they understand to stand back at a safe distance, which is usually about six to eight feet.

Teaching an acronym like PASS is a great way for your employees to have better memory retention when an emergency situation arises. Once your training is complete, you shouldn’t stop there! Review this information annually with your team, especially as employees come and go and roles change.

Having a trusted and confident staff member be in charge of the situation can also help with task delegation. If your employees only have to focus on one or two jobs in an emergency, it greatly increases the chances that your crew will respond appropriately and work as a team.

When to Call Authorities

Not all fires are created equal, and not all of them will become widespread or a dangerous situation. A small break room fire is much different than a warehouse fire or a chemical spill that caught on fire. No matter if your business is off of Bethany Drive in the business district or on the outskirts of town, having a plan in place will help you reduce your risk of experiencing a fire.

That being said, your employees’ safety is the most important thing! Reassure your employees that if they ever feel unsafe or uncomfortable in an emergency situation, it is OK to back away and find an exit quickly and safely. Our local fire department can take over and help tackle the flames.

A fire in the workplace is never something you hope for, but it does happen. If you experience a fire, no matter how big or destructive, our team is here to help you fully recover.

Dealing with the aftermath of a commercial fire? Our SERVPRO specialists can restore your losses and return your workplace to its pre-fire condition.

Stop Water From Entering Your Home This Year | SERVPRO® of Rockwall/Rowlett

1/14/2025 (Permalink)

Have water damage in your home? Contact SERVPRO of Rockwall/Rowlett for quick and professional restoration.

What is better than the start of a brand-new year? We are grateful to get the opportunity to serve the Allen community each year! We truly care about you and your family, and that includes helping you keep your home safe from the dangers of water damage.

The threat of water damage is constant every day, so it is crucial to take as many preventive steps as possible to avoid introducing unwanted water in your home. We outline some of the best ways in our latest blog post below!

Where Does Water Damage Come From?

Water damage doesn’t always occur from a disaster or apparent issue like a flood. Sometimes, it can occur over the course of a month or few weeks from a slow leak.

While both situations can be overwhelming, they can be prevented! It just takes some investigation and attention to detail.

Outside our homes, gutters that are blocked or roofs that have missing shingles can encourage water to leak down our attics and into our homes. Inside, our appliances and fixtures like toilets can spring a leak or malfunction at any time.

If you are able to identify the issue quickly, the better chance you have of avoiding widespread and costly damage. The longer the water sits in your home, the more vulnerable you become to warped floors, rotten wood and mold growth.

How Can I Catch Water Damage Early?

Be a detective in your own home! Investigate any moisture issues in your bathrooms or kitchen by looking for water stains or mold growth every time you clean these areas.

If your nose picks up a musty smell, check it out! Musty odors typically indicate mold or mildew somewhere, so follow your nose.

Addressing water issues immediately is always worth any extra work that you need to do. Water is an essential resource, but you deserve to keep it out of your basement and away from your walls or floors!

Flooding issues are also a common reason for water troubles in our homes. Since flooding can happen at any time, it is important to prepare your home at the change of each season.

Because flooding is a common threat to us in Texas, another way to help reduce this problem is to grade your property. A professional grading can help move soil around in your yard to angle your landscape away from your home. When rain falls, it will then flow away from your home!

Have water damage in your home? Contact us for fast, professional restoration back to preloss condition.

Your Heat Sources and Fire Risk | SERVPRO® of Rockwall/Rowlett

1/14/2025 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Rockwall/Rowlett if you experience any smoke, soot or fire damage.

The temperatures have dipped and we have seen our share of windy and frigid days already this season. There’s no doubt about it—winter has arrived in northern Texas. Now that we are spending more time indoors, most of us have probably turned on our furnaces or utilized our fireplaces.

Since house fires are more common in the winter season, it is important to keep your sources of heat well-maintained and cleaned to avoid starting an accidental fire. We lay out some great ways to reduce your risk of a house fire below, so read on.

Clean Your Furnace

Most homeowners will probably admit that they don’t clean their HVAC systems as often as they should. Even though our furnaces and air conditioning units are used heavily in our homes, they are typically overlooked on a day-to-day basis.

Inspect your furnace regularly to detect any issues or potential malfunctions. The next time we experience a freak snowstorm, you certainly don’t want that to be the time you discover that your furnace isn’t working.

In addition to giving it a good cleaning every season, you should also replace the air filter regularly. Ideally, this task should be done seasonally to provide your home with the best air quality. Every 90 days is a good benchmark to swap it out.

Even though this is a small and easy task, it can extend the lifespan of your HVAC system and can save you money and a potential headache down the road!

Prioritize a Clean Fireplace

If your home has a fireplace, you probably enjoy the warm benefits it can bring a few times a year. Since it may not be used very often, it is even more important that it is cleaned regularly to remove excess dust buildup. During cleaning, it is also a good idea to inspect it for cracks or potential issues.

If you have an artificial fireplace, remove the glass front and wipe down the entire interior of the unit and check to make sure all of the connecting gas or electric lines are in good condition. For wood-burning fireplaces, clearing out excess ash and ensuring the chimney is not blocked can help reduce your risk of starting a house fire.

Portable Heater Safety

If you need a quick blast of warmth, space heaters can be a great resource to have in your home. While they are an efficient source of heat for a single room or small space, they can also be fire hazards. Avoid accidental tipping of the unit by placing it on a level surface, and always plug it into the wall instead of an extension cord.

Children and pets can also increase your house fire risk if you use space heaters. Never leave them in a room unattended, and always unplug your heater before going to bed.

If you experience fire damage this season, give us a call at SERVPRO of Rockwall/Rowlett for immediate assistance. We’re here ²⁴⁄₇ when you need us!

Why SERVPRO® Offers the Performance You Need

1/23/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Rockwall/Rowlett is your local restoration expert. Whether you've had a fire, flood or other disaster we are here to restore and clean-up.

Ever heard of a triple threat? In the show-business world, that’s someone who can dance, act and sing…an all-around performer.

Well, in the cleaning and restoration world, we’re proud to be a triple threat. We perform in every aspect of the business: our expertise, our teamwork and our rapid, round-the-clock service. Let us tell you more.

The Science of Cleaning

If you’ve spent hours of your life toiling with a mop and bucket, you may think cleaning is anything but a science. However, there’s a lot to learn about cleaning.

Just in terms of chemistry alone, there’s a whole field of knowledge studying which products work against which germs, such as COVID-19. Industries such as the CDC set standards for cleaning—standards which we follow.

We don’t just throw soap and water at your business. We study the science, then obtain the necessary certifications, so you’ll know we’re cleaning effectively for your particular situation.

Our Team Includes You

In earlier blogs, we’ve told you about our dedicated crews. Now let us add one more person: YOU.

Whether we’re creating an ongoing plan for your business or meeting an emergency need, we consult with you before a project and then circle back to make sure we’re doing a great job.

24-Hour Service

Our workers are here for you around the clock. Whether you’ve had a fire, flood or other disaster, we show up when you need us to take care of the clean-up and restoration. Our highly trained technicians will take your call, assess your situation and provide advanced services to get you back in business again with minimal time lost.

Now that you’ve learned why we’re a triple threat, keep SERVPRO® in mind. Whether you want a regular Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned visit or have an emergency need, you can contact us at any hour for assistance.

How Can I Detect and Correct Leaky Pipes? | SERVPRO® of Rockwall/Rowlett

1/23/2024 (Permalink)

A water leak can turn into a big problem. Contact the SERVPRO of Rockwall/Rowlett team if you are dealing with any water damage.

Quick—can you name the sources of water damage in your home? You might easily name storms, old roofing, floods and even leaky appliances. One source of water damage that often falls out of sight/out of mind…leaky pipes!

If you do have leaking pipes in your home or business, you need to promptly locate them. Unlike storm damage, slow leaks are not usually covered by insurance.

Maybe you’ve never done a plumbing of any size. The prospect can seem scary. But if it’s in an accessible place, you can often fix a leaky pipe by yourself. This video and many others like it show you the basics of fixing a leaky pipe.

Find It. Fix It. Or Get Help.

Where is the leak? What should you look for when you suspect a leak…or feel actual dampness around your toes?

• Ceiling stains
• Damaged flooring
• Loose, flaking caulking or grout
• Looseness of your sink faucet or handles
• Mold or mildew
• Puddles (of course)
• Tiles that keep coming up
• Toilet that moves when you rock it

Pinpoint the exact source. Saying, “My bathroom plumbing is leaking” is just the first step. Any number of pipes might be causing your bathroom tile to come up. Now, it’s time to narrow down. Check the access panel behind your tub. Look under countertops. Try partially filling your tub or sink. See if you can find water welling up around any pipe joints you see. (Small leaks can be detected by wrapping a dry paper towel around the joint.)

DIY, or call an expert? If you can see and get your hands around a leaky pipe, you can likely repair it yourself. But plenty of leaks are just hard to get to. Or maybe you still can’t pin down a source. Call in a reputable plumber to take it from there. Even for small leaks, early attention will save you money down the road.

I’ve Fixed the Leak, But It’s Looking Moldy

Now that you’ve fixed the leak, does the spot need a clean-up? Call SERVPRO®. In business more than 50 years, we’re experts at cleaning up after water damage.

We’re a local franchise of a national company. That means we have the sense of urgency of a small business, but we can draw on national expertise.

Need to clean up some water damage? Contact us at any time, round the clock for quick service and great results.

Growing More So We Can Help More | SERVPRO® of Rockwall/Rowlett

1/23/2024 (Permalink)

Our SERVPRO team is climbing and growing together with pride in serving our community!

With continued mold services, commercial emergency services, and an increase in residential involvement, SERVPRO of Rockwall/Rowlett has experienced a full circle of growth over the last year.  

Our depth of knowledge and service has grown to incorporate new abilities to impact our communities in a positive way and, just in time.
The significant rains we have received this spring have created a higher demand for water damage restoration as well as mold remediation than we have seen in the past. Our team is ready to step in and help the members of Rockwall and surrounding communities.  

From helping homeowners restore their properties after various types of damage, to assisting business owners in returning back to business "Like it never even happened," we celebrate our growth and look forward to continuing to grow in the years to come.  

If you've experienced water damage in your home or business, please give us a call - we'd love the opportunity to help.

Protect Your Home From Fire This Season | SERVPRO® of Rockwall/Rowlett

11/15/2022 (Permalink)

Should a fire issue pop-up during this holiday season, SERVPRO of Rockwall/Rowlett will be on call ready to assist.

The holiday season is here! Cozy homes full of glowing lights, fresh pies and cookies, and our closest friends and family make this time of year so wonderful. Unfortunately, though, the coziness of this season actually leads to more home fires than any other time of year.

While you are busy writing out your letter to Santa or prepping for your first-ever Turkey Trot, it is important to remember proper safety practices when decorating and celebrating around the Allen area.

Fire risk is all around us during this wonderful time of year, so staying safe should be in the forefront of your mind as you plan for the holidays ahead.

How can I Detect and Correct Leaky Pipes? | SERVPRO® of Rockwall/Rowlett

11/15/2022 (Permalink)

A water leak can turn into a big problem. Contact the SERVPRO of Rockwall/Rowlett team if you are dealing with any water damage.

Quick—can you name the sources of water damage in your home? You might easily name storms, old roofing, floods and even leaky appliances. One source of water damage that often falls out of sight/out of mind…leaky pipes!

If you do have leaking pipes in your home or business, you need to promptly locate them. Unlike storm damage, slow leaks are not usually covered by insurance.

Maybe you’ve never done a plumbing of any size. The prospect can seem scary. But if it’s in an accessible place, you can often fix a leaky pipe by yourself. This video and many others like it show you the basics of fixing a leaky pipe.

Find It. Fix It. Or Get Help.

Where is the leak? What should you look for when you suspect a leak…or feel actual dampness around your toes?

• Ceiling stains
• Damaged flooring
• Loose, flaking caulking or grout
• Looseness of your sink faucet or handles
• Mold or mildew
• Puddles (of course)
• Tiles that keep coming up
• Toilet that moves when you rock it

Pinpoint the exact source. Saying, “My bathroom plumbing is leaking” is just the first step. Any number of pipes might be causing your bathroom tile to come up. Now, it’s time to narrow down. Check the access panel behind your tub. Look under countertops. Try partially filling your tub or sink. See if you can find water welling up around any pipe joints you see. (Small leaks can be detected by wrapping a dry paper towel around the joint.)

DIY, or call an expert? If you can see and get your hands around a leaky pipe, you can likely repair it yourself. But plenty of leaks are just hard to get to. Or maybe you still can’t pin down a source. Call in a reputable plumber to take it from there. Even for small leaks, early attention will save you money down the road.

I’ve Fixed the Leak, But It’s Looking Moldy

Now that you’ve fixed the leak, does the spot need a clean-up? Call SERVPRO®. In business more than 50 years, we’re experts at cleaning up after water damage.

We’re a local franchise of a national company. That means we have the sense of urgency of a small business, but we can draw on national expertise.

Need to clean up some water damage? Contact us at any time, round the clock for quick service and great results.

Do You Have a Storm Safety Plan? | SERVPRO® of Rockwall/Rowlett

6/2/2022 (Permalink)

If you discover storm damage to your home or business, reach out to SERVPRO of Rockwall/Rowlett right away.

The spring and summer seasons bring warm and sunny skies, but they also bring thunderstorms and severe weather! Seasonal thunderstorms can quickly turn severe when the unstable air produces heavy rain, damaging winds and tornadoes.

Plus, considering that there are around 100,000 thunderstorms throughout the United States every year, these severe weather events happen often in northern Texas, especially when we have one of the highest rates of confirmed tornadoes in the country.

We are off to a quick start this season so far in north Texas in terms of severe weather. We have had 17 reported tornadoes so far this year when our average for a typical storm season is 23. With the way that this storm season has begun here in Allen, being prepared will only help keep your family safe.

While we know that we cannot dictate the weather, we can do our best to be prepared for it when it occurs. By doing small things like building an emergency kit, developing a communications strategy and having a plan for how to deal with post-storm damages, you can be prepared to conquer severe weather and reduce the impact it can have on your home.

<h3severe-weather-communication-strategy">Your Severe Weather Communication Strategy

The first thing you need to do when bad weather is in the forecast is to come up with a communication plan with your household members. You also need to be able to receive communications and instructions from your local news and authorities.

It is important to know the difference between watches and warnings so you can understand when to stay vigilant and when to move inside and locate your safe area.

You must also have a reliable way to ** receive alerts** from officials, such as your cell phone or an NOAA weather radio.

Finally, having a storm strategy for your household is incredibly important in order to keep your family safe. Have a safe area in your home that everyone is aware of and is instructed to get to in the event of bad weather, and have a way to communicate with family members that are not home when the storm rolls through. That way everyone knows when and how to check in and mark themselves as safe, regardless of where they are.

<h3your-severe-weather-emergency-kit">Packing Your Severe Weather Emergency Kit

Your emergency kit should be packed with the basics that your family members need to comfortably live for at least 72 hours of sheltering in your safe area. That should include non-perishable food, water, flashlights and extra batteries, and a full first-aid kit. This kit should always be stocked and ready to use in your designated safe area location.

<h3after-the-storm-checklist">Your “After the Storm” Checklist

After the storm has passed, you should always do a recap of your safety plan and then check your property for storm damage. Once it is safe to do so, check your property for damage.

Make sure that your roof, doors and windows are your priority after any storm, as these areas are the ones that are susceptible to water damage most easily.

If you do find damage in your home, know that SERVPRO of Rockwall/Rowlett will be there to fix your problem. We provide quick responses from our trained technicians, and we have a passion for what we do.

When the storm is over and your household members have all been marked as safe, you should do one final audit of your safety plan. Gather feedback about what worked and what needed improvement, and make any necessary adjustments so that you are ready and more prepared for the next storm.

If you discover storm damage to your home or business, you can count on SERVPRO to handle the restoration. We’re here ²⁴⁄₇ to spring into action—get in touch with us today.

A Partner Your Business Can Trust | SERVPRO® of Rockwall/Rowlett

4/25/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Rockwall/Rowlett are your local commercial restoration experts. Contact us today should you experience any damage

Owning a business means that each day there will be new challenges, exciting opportunities and on occasion, there could be accidents or disasters. All these challenges fall on you, and you need to be prepared. As you know, any type of disaster or accident can become a devastating loss.

You can rest assured that with SERVPRO of Rockwall/Rowlett right here to help you, you will be better prepared for any of these events. We will work with you to restore your business or help you get it clean. We strive to see our community grow and thrive, so we have a vested interest in helping take care of your business.

Large loss recovery. Fires, storms and flooding are the top causes of financial loss for U.S. businesses. These things can cause much damage, especially if action isn’t taken quickly. You should know that when you call SERVPRO, we will handle the situation promptly and thoroughly.

Emergency Ready Plan. Recovery can start before a disaster strikes, as long as your business is prepared. We can work to help you establish an emergency plan, so that when the time comes, you can roll it out with ease. This plan should outline basics such as an emergency chain of command, alternative work sites and temporary vendors, along with so much more!

Cleaning of All Kinds. We can handle specialty cleaning needs such as trauma site cleanup and biohazard removal, along with more general cleaning needs such as carpet and upholstery cleaning. We have a solution for mess you may encounter

Restoration Services. There are things that happen in life that are beyond our control sometimes! Storms can flood your office, an electrical fire could break out in the kitchen or an appliance hose may leak. Regardless of the incident that happens, you will need to have your business restored and cleaned. You can trust SERVPRO of Rockwall/Rowlett to get it done.

Industry Specialization. We have spent decades learning the ins and outs of commercial enterprises so that we can provide business owners with the best service. Whatever specific needs you might have for your company, we can tackle the cleaning and restoration. We will also do our best to enclose our work area so that you can continue business as normal.