Recent Storm Damage Posts

Safeguard Yourself Against Severe Storms | SERVPRO® of Pulaski & Laurel Counties

5/19/2023 (Permalink)

 img src =”storm” alt = " a person going over their emergency supplies and checking it off on a list” > Severe weather can happen anytime. Make sure you're prepared and remember, SERVPRO of Pulaski & Laurel Counties is here to help when disaster strikes.

We are right in the heart of peak severe weather season in the Somerset area. Some of the most volatile weather passes through our community from March to June, though we all know that Kentucky weather is anything but predictable.

In order to keep your family safe from severe weather, it is important that you are prepared ahead of the weather warnings and projected forecast.

Our SERVPRO of Pulaski & Laurel Counties team explains how to get ready now before the next severe storm hits, so read on to learn how to prepare yourself.

Have a Plan in Place

Have you ever heard that the best offense is a good defense? That applies to preparing for severe weather, too!

You should discuss your family’s emergency plan regularly and communicate where you should go and what you should do during a weather warning. Pick the lowest and most interior room in your home as the location that you will shelter, or explain how to get to your underground storm shelter quickly.

You should also take the time to update your emergency contacts and your family’s contacts so that in the event that you get separated, you can easily connect with one another.

Finally, you should ensure that your alert systems are ready to go. You should have at least two reliable ways of receiving weather alerts with one of them not being dependent on electricity in order to work.

Prep Your Space

In your safe shelter location, you should have an emergency kit that is stocked with whatever you would need to live safely for a couple of days in a disaster situation. Pack a first-aid kit, batteries, flashlights, a battery-operated weather radio, ponchos and a three-day supply of food and safe drinking water.

Remember, while a lot of these items do have long shelf-lives, they can still expire. You should be going through your emergency kit each season to check for expiration dates and swap out anything that is old or compromised. Don’t forget to include food and water for your pets as well!

What to Do After the Storm

As you stay hunkered down in your home with your family, don’t go outside until you are sure the storm has passed. Once it is safe to do so, take a walk around your home and property to look for damage. If damage is discovered, call SERVPRO of Pulaski & Laurel Counties immediately.

We will arrive at your home quickly and will get to work securing the rest of your house to prevent more damage in the meantime. This can include laying tarps or boarding up windows and doors.

Then we’ll move on to the rest of the project! We can dry up water, remove debris, clean up messes, and sanitize your space. After that, we can address any necessary repairs to bring your home back to its preloss condition. Even though experiencing storm damage may be scary, our restoration team is here to ensure you experience a full recovery.

Storm damage is common at this time of year. Contact us at SERVPRO of Pulaski & Laurel Counties if your home suffers damage.

The Most Common Types of Storm Damage

8/17/2022 (Permalink)

What at the most common types of storm damage?

A storm can be a stressful event to deal with. When storms occur in the London, Corbin, or Somerset areas: there may be property damage caused by wind, flooding, and lightning. Our restoration experts are here for you after each storm has passed to help mitigate any long-term damages that may have occurred. We have full training on each category. Here are some common types of storm damage that can occur to your Corbin, London, or Somerset home.

The most common one is roof damage which could result from strong winds that loosen flashing, causing leaks or even a missing roof due to the aforementioned.

Another common issue is flooding; when heavy rains occur, municipal water systems can get disrupted causing leakage within pipes.

Finally, there's lighting damage, which can have objects attached to trees or other structures within a property struck by lightning. This can result in further damage to that property and could even cause electrical malfunction or explosions.

Storm Damage in Eastern Kentucky

8/10/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Pulaski and Laurel Counties is here to help during recent flooding events. Our team is on the ground ready to help those in need. Our own community has been hit by the flooding, and we want to help our community rebuild.

In the past several years, our team has traveled thousands of miles to reach our customers. Our national brand has a way to reach all of our customers in need. We get calls and dispatches from the local office, and we send a team and supplies as soon as possible. 

This past month our team has been in Eastern Kentucky. Small eastern Kentucky communities were impacted by record-breaking flooding. 

At home and on the road, our team and hero technicians are here to help! We will continue to be in EKY to help with the huge amounts of people who need assistance. 

Storm Damage Clean-up in your London Home

7/22/2022 (Permalink)

Storm Damage Clean-Up

Hail, wind, flooding, and other storm damages can create horrible impacts on your home. It is important to have a team of certified contractors to help in your time of emergency.  Our SERVPRO® of Pulaski and Laurel Counties technicians are here to help with a range of mitigation to repairs. 

Secondary Damages

Over the last year, our area has seen more horrendous storms than ever before. We have seen down trees, torn roofs, siding, windows, and other damages occur to homes. When high winds and flooding create these damages, you want a professional to give help with tarping, board-up, and other measures to prevent secondary damages. When storm damage creates disastrous impacts on your home, call SERVPRO® of Pulaski and Laurel Counties.

Storm Damage: Faster to Any Size Disaster

7/21/2022 (Permalink)

Commercial property damage is no small emergency. When emergency damage hits your business, it can be deadly to the state of your employees, profit, and continuity. 

The key to making sure your business is back up and running is minimizing damage, business interruptions, and recovery costs. Keep in mind that SERVPRO® of Pulaski and Laurel Counties has what you need when an emergency strikes: 

  • Electronic File Documentation Complete with Loss Reports
  • 24/7 Call Center
  • Large Loss Capabilities-Catastrophic Loss Response team.
  • Professional Reassurance and Consistency
  • National Accounts Guidelines ( for National Accounts Insurance Clients)
  • More than 2,0000 Franchises are located in North America. 

When emergency damages happen, we are faster to any size disaster. Call our office to see how we can help you when you have emergency water, fire, or mold damage at 606-877-2160.

London, Corbin, Somerset: Storm Season

5/17/2022 (Permalink)

lightning and storm damage Storm damage can be a scary thing to happen to your home. Trust the professionals to help!

Anyone that lives in Kentucky, knows that the storms can come in fast and furious. We have been known to have light thunder and lightning turn into a vicious tornado. These high wind speeds can create a lot of damage in their path. 

Something as simple as a stray branch or rock from the winds can break your window or roof. This occurrence can create secondary damages in your home. Anything from water, fire, mold, or cleanup services might be necessary. 

If items inside your house ever get wet after a storm, our SERVPRO® of Pulaski and Laurel Counties can help you by providing the following services:

  • Emergency Services after Water Damage
  • Leaking Roof from Storms
  • Ceiling Repairs from Water Damages
  • Flood Restoration
  • Water Removal Services
  • Water Clean Up

Trust our team to come to your home after a storm surge and help you put it back together "Like it never even happened."

Is your home prepared for summer storms?

4/26/2022 (Permalink)

summer rain Make sure to check your home during the summer storm season.

Summer storms in London:

Storm Types

The sun has made its appearance, but along with the sunshine comes summer storms. Storms are a natural occurrence but can create a lot of damage to your home. Here are a few summer storms that can create damage in your home:

Lightning- This can create some of the most damage. Lightning strikes can create fires in your home and especially your attic. 

Thunderstorms- Thunderstorms probably will not leave any damage, but they are typically a precursor for more serious storms that can cause damage. 

Tornadoes- Tornadoes usually leave a huge mess in their wake. They can create damage for miles and miles in several cities and towns across their path.

Home Damage

Here are a few places where storm damage more regularly occurs: 

Attic: You do not regularly go into your attic, so after storms, it is vital you check it out. Lightning can create fire damage or small sparks. Water damage can come through and hide behind furniture or other storage items against the walls. Check your attic for damage regularly. It’s important to assess your attic space as often as you check other parts of your home. 

Roof: Check your roofing after severe summer weather. You need to make sure there are no leaks or shingles that are missing. These need to be repaired as soon as you can to prevent secondary damage after a storm. 

Keep these tips in mind for summer storms to keep your home intact!

Wind Damage in London

4/12/2022 (Permalink)

How can you prevent wind damage?

Spring is here and so is storm season. This week alone, our meteorologist has predicted more bad weather for our area in London.

Prevention: Do a checklist of your home before bad weather sets in. Look for downed power lines, trees that have rotted or seem weak, limbs that hang down, or even outdoor equipment/furniture that could be picked up by heavy winds. These pieces could be slung into your home and create damage.

Roof: Get a checkup on your roof. If you cannot, have a professional look for misplaced shingles, or other damages. See if you need a fix or a new roof before bad weather.

Insurance: Have a sit down with your insurance agent. See what needs to be updated to your insurance policy to protect you from wind damage.

Assess Damages: When the heavy winds or storms are over, go a look over your property to make sure nothing is out of place. You want to catch any damages early, so they do not create secondary damages. You also want to make sure they are covered on your policy so you can file a claim or get help for damage cleanup from a professional. 

Spring Storms are here in Kentucky!

4/5/2022 (Permalink)

lightning strikes Call us today with storm damage.

What to do when lightning strikes:

Storm season in Kentucky is upon us! We all know the familiar sight of storm clouds rolling in from the distance.  Wind, rain, thunder…and lightning.  What happens when lightning strikes your home or business?  At SERVPRO® of Pulaski and Laurel Counties, we have the experience and training to deal with the aftermath of lightning strikes. 

From the deodorization process to the structural repair process down to any cleaning needs from potential interior soot, we are ready and able to assist at any time.  Often times a lightning strike leads to the need for emergency board up or roof tarps.  We can handle that as well! 

Call us with any lightning or storm damage needs and let us assist you during the entire process. Also, prepare your home and family before the storm hits. Follow some of our other blogs  for storm safety. SERVPRO® of Pulaski and Laurel Counties is available 24 hours 7 days a week and will be ready to help you no matter when a storm or lightning strike may occur. 

After the Storm

3/19/2022 (Permalink)

guy smelling something funky What's that smell?

Storm damage can break windows, cause water damage, and create a variety of issues. 

Are you a business owner or in charge of a commercial property? Have you ever noticed any smells that could be pushing away business after a storm?

SERVPRO® of Pulaski and Laurel Counties is here to help! We provide Odor Removal and Deodorization to our customers. We are expertly trained in getting rid of those smells that make you want to leave a business --or even worse, fear for your employees and customers for those harmful odors.  

We can identify and eliminate those offensive odors. We know it can lead to the worst of times with customers when there's a bad smell in the air. 

Water damage can create mold that causes smells, or smoke that causes a smell, and even broken windows or roofing that let bad smells into your business.

Call your local SERVPRO® of Pulaski and Laurel Counties --we have ozone machines and other techniques to get your property back to smelling "Like it never even happened." 

Pet Storm Preparedness

3/16/2022 (Permalink)

pets Protect your Pets

Man's Best Friend

When storm's hit, the first things you think of are your family and home. We hope you include your furry best friend in that group with your family. Dogs, cats, and other animals can have heightened senses during storm season. Some animals even get shaky and ill during a bad thunderstorm. When bad storms hit, like tornadoes and hurricanes, there are a few ways to help keep your pet safe. Here are some tips from the Red Cross on Pet Safety items to pack up before a big storm: 

  • Vet Records 
  • Leashes and Harnesses 
  • Safety Kit 
  • Non-perishable dog food 

When there are less serious storms, keeping thunder jackets, or a special place away from noise readily available can help. During a storm, having these places available can help an animal's anxiety from the loud sounds.

Pets truly are our family, so follow these tips to keep them safe during storms. 

Heavy Rains and your London Home

8/23/2021 (Permalink)

Storm Season

When heavy rains hit during storm season, there are a few steps you can take to tackle these home emergencies: 

  • Double-check the insulation in your basement. Excessive amounts of rain in a short period of time can overload basement waterproofing systems, saturating the earth around your basement and then pushing in through foundation cracks. Have an expert inspect your basement to make sure it is properly protected from heavy storm rains.
  • Sometimes, basements that are perfectly protected can still flood, call your insurance provider to double-check your flood insurance. 
  • The position of your home can also impact flood damages. Check your landscaping and the slope of your lawn. Professional landscapers can help with this task. 

When your London or Corbin home is flooded with storm damage, call SERVPRO® of Pulaski and Laurel Counties today.

How to Prepare your Roof in your London Home

8/10/2021 (Permalink)

Storms occur in and out of every month even if it is not a typical storm season. The best way to make sure that you do not end up costing yourself hundreds of thousands of dollars is to prepare your roof as best you can before the storm. 

The best way to prevent future damage is to fix the damage that has already occurred from winter, animals, hail, lightning, or other debris. Here are a few signs to look for to make sure you do not have a roof that will be more prone to severe storm damage: 

  1. Look for missing shingles 
  2. Look for areas that are bending or sagging in places
  3. Look for animal footprints or signs of animals left behind 
  4. Look for gaps and other signs of damage left from anything else that has been on your roof that you are aware of, like tv satellites and other equipment.

If you tend to your roof beforehand, your roof will more likely hold up against the storm. It may not prevent all storm damage from occurring in your London home, but it can help minimize future and more obtrusive damages. 

Flood Damage and Flood Insurance in your London Home

7/23/2021 (Permalink)

Did you know most people do not have flood insurance on their London Homes?

When floods occur, SERVPRO® of Pulaski and Laurel Counties gets an influx of calls. Water damage infiltrates every and any part of your home when it comes to flood water. 

When it comes to insurance and water damage, we know the drill and so do most homeowners; however, when it comes to floodwaters, insurance can have different choices. 

Before storm season fires up, it is best to sit down with your insurance agent and ask about flood coverage. If floodwaters come into your home, there can be a risk it is not covered because of the additional coverage it takes for insurance companies to payout. There can be additional policies to ask about and the extra cost. 

if you experience flooding in your area or even if there is a small risk, be proactive to find out about your local insurance coverage. It is better to save your London home or business money now by asking about flood coverage if water damage from flooding occurs throughout the year. 

When Contaminated Flood Water Comes into your Home

7/22/2021 (Permalink)

Flood Water 101

When floodwaters come into your London home, whether it be from a summer storm or major flooding events, they contain contamination. 

Floodwaters are considered category 3 waters. 

What is category 3 water? 

Category 3 water contains anythings from bacteria, chemicals, sewage, and debris or dirt from the outside. If water gets in your London or Somerset home from flooding make sure to keep your family and pets away from it. 

What to do with your home in category 3 water?

The best way to handle category 3 water is to call a water damage restoration specialist. We are certified and trained with protective equipment and gear to get the water removed from floors, walls, and ceilings that have been contaminated. After the water is extracted, materials and structure that it touched will have to be promptly removed. 

Call the professionals to help with the floodwaters that have contaminated your London or Somerset home. 

After the Storm: Business/Commercial Properties

5/21/2021 (Permalink)

When a storm hits your business there are a variety of factors to consider. There are steps you can take to stay in business after a disaster has occurred. 

The best way to stay in business is to take steps to create a plan with your employees. 

  • Plan to stay in business 
  • Encourage Your Employees 
  • Protect Your Investment

The best way to stay in business is to create a plan to minimize business interruption, which is typically where most businesses lose money after a disaster. Losing means possibly losing employees, products, customers, and many other factors. To minimize business interruption make a plan. Know exactly how to contact emergency responders, emergency water remediation specialists, and other officials that can help get your business back on track. 

Here at SERVPRO® of Pulaski and Laurel Counties, we have an Emergency Readiness Plan, or an ERP, to help take steps towards creating that emergency plan of action. 

Disaster Recovery Team

4/28/2021 (Permalink)

Storm Season

Storm season can be anything from a cat5 hurricane to high winds in your local area. 

Our disaster recovery team reaches far and wide from our local communities to whichever SERVPRO calls a storm response across the United States. 

Our team has the equipment, procedures, and training to respond to these types of damages. We are open 24/7 and 365 days for a reason. Storms do not take a day off, so neither do we. We are here to help when those storms cause damages that are not easily repaired. From water, to fire, to mold: storm damage can range across the board to what it can cause in your home or business. 

Trust the professionals who know how to help when disaster happens. We are faster to any size disaster!

Roof Damage and Ceiling Collapse

4/14/2021 (Permalink)

roof damage and ceiling collapse Wind and roof damage --call SERVPRO® of Pulaski and Laurel Counties at 606-877-2160.

Wind and Roof Damage

April showers bring May storms and roof damages --which need to be boarded-up before water infiltrates your home or business and causes more damages.

Did you know that SERVPRO also provides board-up and roof tarping services after storms and fires?

When heavy winds and rain hit your roof --there are several damages it can do to your roof and home. With stray debris and heavy water during storm season, there are several ways it can impact your home. 

Calling the professionals makes sure we can roof tarp your home to help combat further damages. Once we have tarped the home, we can begin setting equipment to dry the inside of your home. 

Roof damage can be detrimental to your home, call us at SERVPRO® of Pulaski and Laurel Counties to help today!

Insulation - Here's what you need to know.

4/8/2021 (Permalink)

Storm Damage to my insulation, what do I do?

When storm damage occurs and it creates wet rooms in your home, there are a variety of factors that go into play. It is not just about having wet flooring or wet ceiling -- the walls and more importantly, what is inside those walls should be at top of mind. 

Insulation comes in several different forms. From foam to cotton, to cellulose, and more: each type has to be treated in a different way after water damage has damaged it. 

When we discover drywall/insulation is wet from water damage we will access what type, then we can tell homeowners if the insulation can be saved or if it needs to be torn out and new re-installed. 

Often times it saves money and future damage to replace the insulation, and if it is contaminated insulation --it must come out. 

Trust the professionals to handle your water damage, so we can accurately access water damage and the material inside your walls and flooring. We want your family and home safe from contaminants and future damage. Follow our blog for more information on how storm and water damage can impact your home.

Preparing for Storm Weather

3/19/2021 (Permalink)

concrete floor Flooded basements happen, but you can be prepared!

Recently, the rains have picked up and flooding has occurred all around our local area. Several homes were completely flooded and the customers had to evacuate. The water crested within a few days, but the damage had been done.

We all want to keep our homes and families safe during this time. The best way to keep your family safe is through an at-home kit. It's all about safety first and planning information out before the storm hits.

FEMA gives us great tips on how to get started preparing our families and ourselves for storms:

  • How will I receive emergency alerts and warnings?
  • What is my shelter plan?
  • What is my evacuation route?
  • What is my family/household communication plan?
 When storms occur, we want to keep our families and our homes safe. When you have a plan, you have a way to prepare! When storm damages occur, call our office as we always have technicians standing by. We are here to help!

The Difference Between a Watch and a Warning

3/19/2021 (Permalink)

Watch Vs. Warning 

When a storm comes into town, the first thing you want to know is how close it is to your home. 

There are several differences between a watch and a warning. According to Weather Works, here are the differences: 

A WATCH is a potential for a thunderstorm that is severe or a tornado, depending on the specifics of the watch description. 

A WARNING is a severe threat that means the weather is coming to your local area or has already arrived. 

When a storm arrives always have a family plan and kit ready. This prepares your family to stay safe and prepared during storm damages. 

When storm damages occur, call our offices as we have technicians standing by and ready to help. We are here to help 24/7 and 365 days.

Two Hurricanes --Storm Damage Preparedness

8/24/2020 (Permalink)

There are two hurricanes headed for the south in the upcoming days. We may not have to deal with the actual hurricane damage in our area in the coming days, but our storm team is ready to go. 

When storms hit in other others, especially hurricanes or tropical storms, our team is always prepared and ready. When storms occur they bring with them flooding, wind damage, and other damages that equal up to some major changes in a community. With that overflow of help needed, different SERVPROs from around the United States will call on franchises that are close to them to come help their community. 

With these two new hurricanes about to hit in one area --we have several teams on standby. Our equipment is loaded and our supplies have been replenished. When our customers go through something as traumatic as a storm event, they need trained technicians who can help them quickly and efficiently. 

SERVPRO® of Pulaski and Laurel Counties is here to help when you need it most.

How to handle the mess after the storm?

8/11/2020 (Permalink)

man in a rainjacket standing in a storm After the storm, call SERVPRO® of Pulaski and Laurel Counties.

Storm and Hurricane Season are Here!

Every year tornadoes cost about $400 million in damage across the United States every year, with an average cost of $8,179 per house. We want you and your family to be prepared, follow these tips to stay safe during this storm season.

  • The best way to be prepared for storm damage is to have an insurance policy that covers storm-related damage. Check with your insurance provider to make sure damage from wind, lightning and falling tree branches. You should make sure you are covered now, before the storm comes through. 
  • We want you to keep your family safe, so make sure you are prepared by having a family plan. You should have a designated shelter area that is in the basement or ground level. This area should have no windows and enough room for your entire family to stay in for a few hours until the storm is over. In this area you should have essentials such as: includes flashlights, a first aid kit, and blankets for if the power goes out. 
  • Having a generator is the best way to get proactive before the storm. You don't want to be buying one after the storm has occurred when everyone is trying to get one too.

Storms are some of the worst weather events to hit your home or business. Stay prepared with these tips. If you need help, after the storm call us. We are here to help!

Roof Damage in Corbin

7/24/2020 (Permalink)

A severe thunderstorm in Corbin, Kentucky caused major roof damage for one family. 

Their roof had several spots of damage from heavy winds during a recent thunderstorm. Our offices were called because one of the family members remembered seeing an ad that we did roof tarping. 

Roof tarping may not seem like much, but when your home has holes in the roof and water spilling in from storm rains --a properly tarped roof can feel like a life saver. 

After our teams came in to tarp the room and protect the rest of the home for more storm damage, our team of trained reconstruction technicians came to help finish up with the little amount of water damage that had entered the home before the homeowners could call us. 

These homeowners were so thankful for the work SERVPRO® of Pulaski and Laurel Counties had done for them and their home. 

They know if a storm occurs again and gives their home roof damages --they can call us!

Storm Season is Here --and we are Here to Help!

5/22/2020 (Permalink)

It does not matter the time of year, the day of the week, or the hour of the day --when storms call, SERVPRO® of Pulaski and Laurel Counties answers. 

Storm season is upon us, which means we are headed to storm at any time. We manage our teams back home, but also send our production team and production managers onto the scene of the storms. The wind, rain, and storm damage usually need a few other pairs of hands to help with the emergency damages. We begin by getting jobs from the local SERVPRO, and they send us who needs the help. We are on the job site usually within one to two days, depending on travel time. 

We are here to help customers get back on their feet after storms hit the area. 

We know storms do not back down, and neither do we. Call us today at 606-877-2160 for storm assistance. 

Now is the time to prepare!

4/30/2020 (Permalink)

From pandemic preparation to emergency damage response: 

As we have all seen recently within the pandemic, planning is key to fighting any emergency.

Right now is the perfect opportunity to review your emergency plan. Emergencies can happen unexpectedly in any community. Tornado outbreaks, river floods, flash floods, historic earthquakes, and even water main breaks and power outages in U.S. cities affecting millions of people for days at a time. 

The more you know about what to do in an emergency, the more confident and secure you will feel in your abilities to manage through a disaster. Preparation is the key to making it through any size disaster, whether it is a small water leak, a large fire, or an area flood. 

Now is the time to create your plan. We have emergency readiness profiles to help your business stay prepared. Call your local SERVPRO® of Pulaski and Laurel Counties at 606-877-2160 to help you create your plan to be ready!

SERVPRO Storm Team on the road again!

4/16/2020 (Permalink)

This year has brought a lot of national events, weather and other. These events severely impact the lives of those in the storms path. 

A high damage tornado came through Chattanooga, Tennessee in April of 2020. Our storm team immediately reached out to help our fellow neighbors. 

One of our owners, headed south to help communities impacted by this tornado. He immediately was on the scene to help customers with water, roof, contents, and other emergency damages. 

A day later our team arrived to begin work and help these customer and get water out of their homes, tarp roof's, and other projects. 

We still have local technicians available, but our team travels all over the U.S. to help other communities who have been impacted by weather events. 

If you need help with storm damage, call your local SERVPRO® of Pulaski and Laurel Counties today. 

Be Ready: Emergency Ready Profiles

4/10/2020 (Permalink)

Storms can happen at any time to your home or business. 

No matter where you live, it is important to be informed and prepared for any natural disaster that may occur. Natural disasters often strike without warning, leaving behind a trail of destruction and devastation. Though Mother Nature's disasters are often unpredictable, there are steps you can take to ensure you are prepared.

We can help!

Contact SERVPRO® of Pulaski and Laurel Counties to create an Emergency READY Profile (ERP) for your property. Our ERP's serves as a quick reference document, detailing important building and contact information for your property in the event of an emergency. The ERP is an ideal supplement to any existing preparedness plan, or may be used as a standalone document. Knowing what to do and who to call in advance is the key to timely mitigation, and can minimize the effects of any weather-related disaster, water, or fire damage to your business.

ERP's can be in an app or paper form. These variety of ways offered are for different customers who need a specific format. These ERP's keep information on contacts, police and fire departments, utility companies, and many other contacts you may need in time of an emergency.

Call us today to help: 606-877-2160.

Why is Storm Water dangerous?

3/24/2020 (Permalink)

During storm season, there are a variety of variables to be concerned about for your property. When water damage occurs, it can mean several different things for you, your family, or your business. One thing many customers do not think about are the different categories of water. Category 3 water being the most dangerous. 

What is Category 3 Water?

Category 3 water, or black water, is dirty. It can contain:

  • Dangerous microbes, bacteria or fungi
  • Harmful chemicals
  • Sewage
  • Dirt or debris from the ground

During this kind of water emergency, our technicians wear Personal Protective Equipment or PPE. PPE must be worn before entering or handling the flood water. 

How Do You Handle Category 3 Water?

Our hero technicians are trained and certified to remove the water, tear out items that cannot be saved and disinfect every affected surface that remains before replacing the floor, walls and ceiling that were removed.

The first step is extraction of the contaminated water. A pump that removes both water and debris will likely be used.  They dry and sanitize everything that the black water touched.  After the water damage is cleaned in a safe and protected way, our construction team can rebuild the items that were discarded during the cleanup/


When your building becomes a victim of flood water, it is important to take every step necessary to ensure the safety of everyone in the building. Keep people away from Category 3 water, and let the experts handle the rest.

What is IICRC?

3/24/2020 (Permalink)

image of iicrc logo with a blue and green ball behind the text Trust us, an IICRC certified restoration company!

What is the IICRC Organization?

The IICRC is the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification, a non-profit organization for the cleaning and restoration industry. The IICRC, originally named the International Institute of Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning Inc. (IICUC).

The purpose of the IICRC is to keep integrity and respect in the service industry. Our company takes great pride in making sure we treat our customers in the best way possible. IICRC also provides extra training and certifications for our technicians and employees. 

We have great value in being a part of such an important industry. IICRC values respect and integrity and makes sure that the service industry follows suit with those standards and values. 

Trust us SERVPRO® of Pulaski and Laurel Counties, an IICRC certified restoration company!

Storm Alert

9/6/2019 (Permalink)

a lightening bolt with a storm team logo on it Storm Team Parsons and Roberts is here to help all storm customers during their time of emergency.

SERVPRO® of Pulaski and Laurel Counties is part of storms teams all over the United States to help customers during their time of need. 

When a storm hits in another part of the country there are green teams all over that will join the fight to help out. 

In the news currently, Hurricane Dorian is making its way to the shores. 

Hurricane Dorian is expected to make landfall as a Cat. 4 in the Bahamas on Sunday, and the Florida Peninsula on Monday. Dorian could travel up the east coast, bringing heavy rain and flooding to parts of southern Georgia and South Carolina. 

We are already preparing our storm team to head out next week once the hurricane subsides to help customers. You can be on the lookout for team green everywhere because they will be on the road headed toward a town near these storm damages.  

Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone who could be or will be impacted by these storms. 

Our Storm Response Promise: 1 * 4 * 8

8/14/2019 (Permalink)

When a storm occurs, they can be scary for home owners. The even scarier part --when a storm damages your home and you need help. Your local SERVPRO® of Pulaski and Laurel Counties has a way to get to our customers faster. We have a 1,4, 8 policy. Our policy states:

  • One hour from a notice of loss, we will have a SERVPRO professional contact you.
  • Four hours of loss a SERVPRO professional will be on site to start mitigation, if necessary.
  • Eight business hours after a loss, we will have a verbal briefing of the scope communicated to you.

No matter if it's 2:00 on a Wednesday or midnight on a Friday night, SERVPRO® of Pulaski and Laurel Counties is here to help with your after hours emergencies and following our 1,4,8 water damage promise. 

It's that time again --storm time.

5/31/2019 (Permalink)

It does not matter the time of year, the day of the week, or the hour of the day --when storms call, SERVPRO® of Pulaski and Laurel Counties answers. Storms do not wait on daylight hours and neither do we. 

We got the call just this week to head back to Iowa. There are more storms sweeping the west, and they needed our help. We manage our teams back home, but also send our production team and production managers onto the scene of the storms. The wind, rain, and storm damage in Iowa needed a few other pairs of hands to help with the emergency damages. We begin by getting jobs from the local SERVPRO, and they send us who needs the help. We are on the job site usually within one to two days, depending on travel time. 

We are here to help the SERVPRO's and the customers get back on their feet after storms hit the area. 

We know storms do not back down, and neither do we. 

Micro Storms

5/1/2019 (Permalink)

Mirco storms are storm events, but they roll out in a different way. We do not just help large storms teams in a large-loss situation. SERVPRO® of Pulaski & Laurel Counties are here to help other teams in their time of need. 

When storms or flooding happen, the local SERVPRO on a storm event may not need hundreds of other franchises on the scene. We will arrive to manage the volume during an early-warning system. 

We use our team to have rapid mobilization, pre-emptive action plans, and local management and pricing for customers. 

We use our local offices to call customers and our production team is usually already headed towards the city that needs our help. Once our team arrives they begin getting to work to help customers. 

We may be in other areas, but we are still here to help any and all of the green team customers. 

High Wind Storm Damage

4/29/2019 (Permalink)

Damage Causing Winds

Many think that rain and flood waters are the primary cause of storm damage, but wind actually factors into more storm damage than you think.We have seen more storm damage from winds than flood waters in recent years. 

High winds or damaging winds are often called "straight-line" winds. These winds can exceed anywhere from 50-60 miles per hour, causing dangerous situations for homeowners. Tornado causing winds are just as dangerous because they can reach up to 100 miles per hour producing a storm path for miles. 

Keeping Your Home Safe

It is always good to double check your insurance for wind damage. When storm damage hits there can be a variety of problems that occur with some covered by insurance and some not, and it's always best to have your home under the best protection. 

How to Prevent Wind Damage

4/29/2019 (Permalink)

There are ways to protect your home against wind damage this summer. 

Prevention

Take a look around your home. Do you have any lowered power lines, or trees or limbs that look weak, even check for larger pieces of furniture or home equipment that wind could pick up and damage your home with during a storm. 

Roof 

At least once a year, look over your roof. Check it for missing shingles and other damages or decay. Maybe it's time for a new roof?

Update Your Insurance

If you know it's going to be a summer full of hail, high winds, and storms --it may be time to update your insurance policy. Double check that all of the damages that could occur to your home are covered under your insurance. 

Access the Damage 

After a storm, see what the storm and heavy winds have brought to your home. 

Always have SERVPRO's number by the phone, because we are here to help!

SERVPRO takes on North Carolina's Hurricane Florence

9/27/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO travels to North Carolina with team to help customers impacted by Hurricane Florence.

Our team of certified and trained technicians left a week and a half ago to New Bern, North Carolina to help locals impacted by the hurricane. They left with a storm trailer full with equipment and supplies to help those in need. 

We are always honored to be a part of the storm team that travels to help those in need. We are graciously humbled to be a part of a 1,700 franchised company that goes from state to state helping those impacted by such catastrophic events. We never take it lightly to help these people who are going through such saddening times. 

We have been to several storms this summer, but this storm is bigger than any of those events. Our team intends to stay for a few more weeks as they continue to help our customers, or as long as it takes to make these damages "Like it never even happened."

To see more of our happenings at storm, visit the link below: 

Our Storm Video, of the team headed to New Burn, North Carolina.

Our storm team travels from Iowa to Pennsylvania!

8/23/2018 (Permalink)

Pictured above is a map of all of the states our storm team has currently traveled.

Our storm team travels all over the United States to care for other communities during their time of need. The local SERVPRO's in those communities get overloaded with calls, so they activate SERVPRO storm teams from all over the country. 

Our teams head into the eye of the storm going from customer to customer to help with their storm damages. It's anything from a flooded basement to sump pump failure; these teams never stop. They work continuously to help the residents of these communities. 

We went to Iowa in July, and we are still in Pennsylvania working with the most recent flooding right now. We hope to help all we can while we are on site. As always, we hope they don't need us, but if they do our storm team is always on standby ready to head into the next disaster.  

Emergency Kit for Summer Storms

6/20/2018 (Permalink)

The summer weather is coming in fast this year, with heat waves, summer storms, and flooding right around the corner. It's always a good idea to keep your family safe by having an emergency preparedness kit just in case. Our friends at the American Red Cross suggest these items for your kit. Of course all items should be personalized to fit your family's needs. 

Include:

  • According to the American Red Cross a first aid kit may include:
    • non-latex gloves
    • assortment of adhesive bandages
    • antibiotic ointment
    • sterile gauze pads in assorted sizes
    • absorbent compress dressings
    • tweezers
    • scissors
    • adhesive cloth tape
    • aspirin packets (81 mg each)
    • first aid instruction booklet
  • A 3–5 day supply of bottled water and nonperishable food
  • Personal hygiene items
  • Blankets or sleeping bags

Does Insurance Cover That?

5/9/2018 (Permalink)

As summer season approaches it's always a good idea to review your insurance. Insurance is great --it keeps you calm during your storm. But, your insurance may not cover as much as you think. 

Your agents want to help you, try to keep in contact with them on what to do when disaster strikes. It's never a bad idea to review your contract and discuss the ins and out of what is covered. Another good idea, is to check your deductible. How much will you need to pay out of pocket before it reaches the level that your insurance can help you? Also, is there separate coverage and  deductibles for hurricanes, floods, etc. 

It's always good to stay prepared, and we hope that disaster doesn't strike but SERVPRO is here to help 24/7 -365!

Storm Season is Here: Be Ready!

5/4/2018 (Permalink)

It's that time of year again when April turns to May, and storms come out to play. 

We all want to keep our homes and families safe during this time. The best way to keep your family safe is through an at home kit. It's all about safety first, and planning information out before the storm hits.

FEMA gives us great tips on how to get started preparing our families and ourselves for storms:

  1. How will I receive emergency alerts and warnings?

  2. What is my shelter plan?

  3. What is my evacuation route?

  4. What is my family/household communication plan?

Have a family meeting and discuss these steps to see what works best for you. 

We hope you don't need us, but when the storms pass through --remember SERVPRO is here 365 24/7! 

Storm Season: Emergency Kit Readiness for London, Somerset, Corbin, and Science Hill

5/4/2018 (Permalink)

Here is a picture with a few things you could need during storm damage season.

Part of SERVPRO's motto is to be ready for whatever happens. We want you and your family to stay safe during storm events. There are a variety of elements that can make storms dangerous: from lightening, to floods, to tornadoes. We have seen the severity of storms and we want you and your family to be prepared. Below is a list from FEMA on items most needed during storms that can cause immense damage: 

  • Water- one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation
  • Food - at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food
  • Battery-powered radio
  • Flashlight
  • First aid kit
  • Extra batteries
  • Whistle to signal for help

SERVPRO® of Pulaski and Laurel Counties are here to help during any storm event. 

Storm damage –from Kentucky to Texas to Georgia and back again!

10/3/2017 (Permalink)

One of our Crew Chiefs and Marketing Reps in Georgia helping make the storm damage "Like it never even happened."

When you think storm damage, your mind immediately goes to torn roofs, downed power lines, and trees littering across street corners. SERVPRO sees a whole other side. Flooding occurs more often in storm damages than almost any other type of debris. When our teams were in Texas and Georgia they cleaned up category 1, 2, and 3 storm flood waters. Here are the differences between the three types of water damage:

  • Category 1- water that does not pose much of a threat to humans and classified as "Clean Water.” Examples are broken water supply lines, tub or sink overflows or appliance malfunctions that involves water supply lines.
  • Category 2- water that contains a significant amount of chemical, biological or physical contaminants and causes discomfort or sickness when consumed or even exposed to, known as "grey water.” Examples are toilet bowls with urine (no feces), sump pump failures and water discharge from dishwashers or washing machines.
  • Category 3- Known as "black water" and is extremely unsanitary. This category includes water from sewage, seawater, rising water from rivers or streams, ground surface water or standing water

Call SERVPRO today, so we can make your water, flood, or storm damage “Like it never even happened.”

Storm Watch 2017—Dorothy and Toto report for duty!

8/29/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Pulaski and Laurel Counties work 24/7 to make sure the local community is taken care of during a disaster. But, what happens when another community is in need and their local SERVPRO is overrun with so many calls they cannot possible take them all? SERVPRO’s from all over the U.S. step in to help!

 During their recent trip to Birmingham the Pulaski and Laurel Counties SERVPRO team got to be in attendance when a Kansas City flood occurred. The Storm Team, run by Eric Greene, were ready and prepared to take care of Kansas City. They dispatched SERVPRO’s from all over to send their Storm Crews to the flood damaged areas.

Our motto is, and always will be, Here to Help! No matter the distance our Storm Team will travel to make your disaster “Like it never even happened.”

Once the sirens have silenced, do you need a hero ready service for your storm damage?

6/22/2017 (Permalink)

We are ready for any storm damage needs!

There’s a scary feeling that hits when you hear your local sirens going off, and you realize the storms are headed your way. You take the necessary precautions, but sometimes the eye of the storm has a mind of it’s own. When the clouds have cleared and you have a mess on your hands, call us at SERVPRO® of Pulaski and Laurel Counties! We understand that storm damage can be overwhelming and seem impossible, but our crew of professionally trained individuals are always ready! Our 1-4-8 rule will get us to you even sooner. Within: 

  • One hour from a notice of loss, we will have a SERVPRO professional contact you.
  • Four hours of loss a SERVPRO professional will be on site to start mitigation, if necessary.
  • Eight business hours after a loss, we will have a verbal briefing of the scope communicated to you.

SERVPRO is here to help when the storm damages your home. As always, we will make it “Like it never even happened.”

Summer Fun or Summer Storms? Either Way SERVPRO® is HERE TO HELP!

5/24/2017 (Permalink)

Marketing Manager Ashley Kovaleski and Marketing Rep Morgan Blount had a great day at the golf scramble telling everyone about SERVPRO.

Last week, our franchise had the opportunity to participate in the Madison County Home Builders Associations Annual Golf Scramble at The Battlefield Golf Club in Richmond, Kentucky.  Many local builders and business professionals from the Richmond and Berea area, as well as across Central Kentucky, came out to support the event. 

Marketing Manager Ashley Kovaleski and Marketing Representative Morgan Blount were able to discuss the benefits of restoration work for the building industry.  As many are aware, warm weather is headed our way.  With the increasing temperatures, we also stand the risk of some severe storms. 

Luckily for our builders and other customers SERVPRO® is your go to for storm damages to your home of business.  Property board-ups, water extraction and drying, and soot cleanup are no match for our team of experts!  Our highly-trained storm damage specialists and our access to the resources and personnel of 1,700 Franchises makes us ready for any size disaster!

When Lightning Strikes!

5/5/2017 (Permalink)

Storm season in Kentucky! We all know the familiar sight of storm clouds rolling in from the distance.  Wind, rain, thunder…and lightening.  What happens when lightning strikes your home or business?  At SERVPRO® of Pulaski and Laurel Counties we have the experience and training to deal with the aftermath of lightning strikes.  From the deodorization process, to the structural repair process down to any cleaning needs from potential interior soot, we are ready and able to assist at any time.  Often times a lightning strike leads to the need for emergency board up or roof tarps.  We can handle that as well!  Call us with any lightening or storm damage needs and let us assist you during the entire process. SERVPRO® of Pulaski and Laurel Counties is available 24 hours 7 days a week and will be ready to help you no matter when a storm or lightning strike may occur. 

SERVPRO® of Pulaski and Laurel Counties - A Proud National Storm Response Team Member

5/5/2017 (Permalink)

Hurricanes, flood events, wildfires – we’ve all seen them on the news and have all done our part at some point through charities like the Red Cross or through personal support of others to assist during these devastating times. SERVPRO® of Pulaski and Laurel Counties has been a proud member of the SERVPRO National Storm Response Team since 2008.  Since that time, our team has worked in 25 states in over 50 natural disaster events to help our neighbors during their times of need.  Our staff is ready at a moment’s notice to assist those in need whether they be next door or across the country.  We have an expanded inventory of equipment and tools on hand at all times in order to respond to any storm need that may arise.  If you or someone you know is affected by a storm event, call us at SERVPRO® of Pulaski and Laurel Counties and let our storm response team help them and their community get back to normal.   

 

Are you “Weather Aware”? Tips for Being Prepared as Storm Season Approaches

3/29/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Pulaski & Laurel Counties has been involved in emergency storm assistance for many years now and during that time has actively worked with local insurance companies and emergency management teams to assist people in extremely difficult and dangerous situations.  With severe weather season fast approaching our area, it is important to be reminded of some basic safety tips in order to stay prepared and alert during our ever changing weather patterns.  

From the Kentucky Division of Emergency Management:

“When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors!” 

  • Before a thunderstorm arrives, know the key warning signs:  dark clouds, lightening, and thunder

  • Get informed with a weather radio or by watching the news

  • Have an emergency kit on hand that includes flashlights, battery operated weather radio, first aid kit, food and water, and essential medicines

  • Stay inside and sheltered.  If outside, move indoors or into a vehicle.  Get out of water immediately.  If trapped outside, make yourself as small as possible in a low lying area

  • Make sure to wait at least 30 minutes after the storm has passed before going outside 

In addition, in order to be prepared for a tornado:

  • Have a family tornado plan in place and practice a family tornado drill

  • Watch for weather signs like dark greenish skies, large hail, dark low clouds and load roaring sounds

  • Put as many walls and floors between you and the tornado as possible

  • Flying debris is the greatest danger during a tornado

  • If in a mobile home – GET OUT!  Find a neighbor, underground shelter, or permanent structure for safety

As a trusted leader in emergency response for our area, SERVPRO of Pulaski & Laurel Counties is committed to helping our community be prepared for weather emergencies.  As a 24 hour emergency response partner, SERVPRO is dedicated to providing immediate and professional services to you and your family should the need arise during this severe weather season.