Why You Should Call SERVPRO of Greater Boulder for Your Restoration Needs

8/31/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Greater Boulder is the caring team you need to make your home or business "Like it never even happened."

Unfortunately, life sometimes throws us a curveball. Whether it’s mold in your basement, a leaky toilet in the bathroom, a fire in the kitchen, or a storm that blows the roof off of your home. Every one of us may find ourselves in emergency situations that call for quick reactions. If any of these things happen to you, we want you to be prepared and know how to contact the best in the business. 

In cases where a home or business structure in Boulder is being compromised by unhealthy and/or unsafe conditions, SERVPRO of Greater Boulder is the-fast-response you need to get relief.  

Chaotic situations should be handled by professionals with the right tools to do the job efficiently. When you are choosing your clean-up and restoration specialist, you may be considering a few important things such as:  

• Convenient location 
• 24/7 availability 
• Professionalism 
• Efficiency 
• Honesty 
• Experience 
• Latest equipment 

SERVPRO of Greater Boulder is the answer!  In the midst of chaos, remember, we’re here to help.  We want to make the clean-up process as easy as possible for you. SERVPRO of Greater Boulder has trained professionals who are quick to respond and apply the latest equipment and techniques to make your disaster in Boulder look “Like it never even happened.” Call SERVPRO of Greater Boulder at (303)494-2000 for help today. 

Who Are You Going To Call?

8/31/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO can help you restore your commercial or residential property after a storm.

Winter is coming. But it’s not here yet! Make sure you’re prepared before you’re in a crisis due to a winter storm. SERVPRO of Greater Boulder is the restoration company you want on your side when you’re in need. 

Winter storms are a common occurrence in Boulder and can happen with little or no advanced warning. Snow and ice buildup on the roof or other building structure can cause water intrusion damage to your home or commercial property. SERVPRO of Greater Boulder wants residents at or near the University of Colorado to know that we are ready to respond to your storm damage call and will begin the cleanup and restoration process immediately. We have the specialized training and state-of-the-art equipment needed to restore your business or home back to pre-storm condition. Here are some of the storm and related services we offer: 

• Storm & Flood Services
• Water & Storm Damage Tips
• Disaster Recovery Team
• Water Restoration Process
• Caring For Your Belongings
• Mold Remediation
• Sewage Cleanup
• Carpet Cleaning
• Odor Removal
• Building Services
• Commercial Storm Damage

We hope you never experience winter storm damage, but if you do, we want to help. We know that every minute counts when it comes to preventing storm damage repairs from becoming costly. Our team of highly trained professionals is on call 24 hours a day every day. Call us today at 303-494-2000. We’ll take care of your commercial damage or residential damage in University of Colorado “Like it never even happened.”

Are you Choosing the Right Restoration Company?

6/3/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is the right choice to help with storm damage in Boulder, CO.

Are you Choosing the Right Restoration Company? 

Storms may leave you confused, scared, and frustrated if you’re dealing with damage. You might feel compelled to hire whichever restoration company is recommended by your insurance company. However, you are under no obligation to use your insurer’s choice for disaster restoration services.

Three hallmarks of a reliable and respected restoration company include:

1.   Experienced, local, and licensed: After a natural disaster or storm, Boulder and Superior Colorado are inundated with out-of-state companies claiming to have restoration experience. It’s best to hire a local company with years of experience in the area and local customer referrals. The company should be fully licensed and certified as proof that they meet the requirements to perform restoration services.

2.   Outstanding customer service: In a time of intense stress, it’s important to work with a compassionate service provider that will outline your options, help through the restoration process, and coordinate with your insurance company. Start by checking out the company’s customer reviews. SERVPRO has numerous 5-star reviews attesting to our customer care.

3.   Certified by IICRC: The IICRC is the leading governing body of the restoration industry. An IICRC certification means that the company has completed rigorous training and testing and provides the highest quality of cleaning and restoration work.

When disaster strikes, trust our team to repair the damage. Locally owned and operated, SERVPRO of Greater Boulder has served the restoration and remodeling needs of Boulder County.  Our commitment to customer service and quality work has made us one of the fastest-growing companies in the country.

We are IICRC certified and licensed to respond to any disaster with emergency 24/7 service. Trust the experienced and compassionate experts at SERVPRO to take care of you and your property after a crisis. Call us at (303)494-2000 for immediate service.

What to Know When Disaster Strikes Your Commerial Property

6/3/2022 (Permalink)

Trust SERVPRO with your business in Boulder County, CO.

Why is Commercial Disaster Restoration Important?

Most businesses are affected by a significant loss of power or water in a disaster. Our commercial and large loss restoration specialists respond to these critical situations quickly to help ensure your business can get back on its feet. No power, no water? Without power, your business is down and running on a generator. You need electricity to keep the machines on or computers running and file your invoices or pay your suppliers. Without power, you’re no longer able to clean rooms, service equipment or offer any other amenities to your guests. A drop in water pressure or low flow? Without water, you can’t properly clean or sanitize your facilities. Without water, the health department can close the facility.

What Happens to Your Company when Disaster Strikes?

Your team and business could have been destroyed or severely damaged when disaster strikes. We'll evaluate the damage and advise you on how to deal with your business disaster. Our technicians are experts in handling most all types of commercial property restoration and recovery. We can help you put things back together as quickly as possible. You can rest assured that your damaged assets will be removed from your property and restored to working condition, safely and securely. Commercial disasters could include fires, floods, severe weather, electrical storms, explosions, structural collapses, earthquake tremors, natural disasters or man-made calamities like fires, floods and explosions.

What to Expect When You Call Us

If your business or property is affected by a flood, fire, earthquake, tornado, hurricane or power outage, you need expert commercial and large loss restoration services. Our qualified and experienced restoration experts assess the situation, design a restoration plan to meet your needs, and act quickly. This happens within the first 72 hours. During this initial time period, we identify the damage, pinpoint the specific loss, create a restoration schedule to identify and repair issues within your damaged space, prepare supplies and equipment, and contact insurance adjusters to assess your policy coverage and damages. Our recovery specialists work closely with you to help you through the repair and renovation process.

Continuing Education Classes for Boulder County

3/16/2022 (Permalink)

We bring in specialists to aid in the education of our staff and community.

Are you an insurance agent, insurance adjuster, or real estate professional looking to improve your knowledge of emergency mitigation? If you are, SERVPRO of Greater Boulder wants you to know about the ongoing continuing education classes we offer to our Boulder community and franchise staff.

We recognize the importance ongoing training plays in keeping staff, real estate agents, and insurance adjusters up to speed on current industry standards as well as new advances in technology.

We are committed to providing continuing education classes that will deepen your understanding of restoration topics such as:

• Water Damage Restoration
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Understanding Mold in the Restoration Industry
• Restorative Drying for Loss Control
• Mitigation Awareness Response Seminar (non-credit course)

SERVPRO of Greater Boulder wants Boulder residents to know that we are proud of the training we require our restoration specialists to undergo and we are proud to offer these continuing education classes at our facility. Our staff and team are highly trained in residential and commercial property damage restoration. We have the skills and specialized equipment to restore your home or business to preloss condition. Call us today at (303)494-2000 and we’ll take care of your property damage in Boulder to make it, “Like it never even happened.”

Keep Commercial Buildings Safe with Fire Sprinklers in Boulder, CO

3/15/2022 (Permalink)

Protect your building from fire damage with fire sprinklers in Boulder, CO.

Fire sprinklers are an important part of fire safety procedures in any building and incredibly important in commercial buildings, like hotels and multi-unit dwellings like apartments, condos and university residence halls. However, in just a few minutes, hundreds of gallons of water could pour out across the floors and quickly spread down to lower floors as the water and damage flow. In just a short amount of time, your property can be facing the possibility of having to close down or have limited access for residents or customers in addition to thousands of dollars of damage for cleanup, restoration, and restoration.

Being a responsible business or property owner means putting measures in place, like fire sprinklers, to stop potential safety threats. SERVPRO's job is being available to step in and put your commercial business back to it's preloss condition after the danger has passed and a fire has been extinguished. 

SERVPRO of Greater Boulder has helped customers with large water damages in the area for many years and have teams of trained, experienced, and knowledgeable professionals to help you make it "Like it never even happened."

Commercial Sewage and Biohazard Clean Up in Boulder County

3/15/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Greater Boulder can take care of your building's sewer and biohazard emergencies in Boulder, CO.

Sewage leaks and biohazards can occur at any time. These leaks may contain viruses, bacteria and other microbes that can cause serious illness.

SERVPRO of Greater Boulder wants the commercial and residential property owners in Boulder to know that sewage leaks and biohazard events in commercial buildings and residential properties are emergencies.  

When a sewage backup occurs, SERVPRO of Greater Boulder is ready to provide cleanup services to remove the sewage, contaminants, and moisture. We will then clean, disinfect and deodorize the structure and contents.

We also offer biohazard cleanup services that are sadly sometimes necessary:

• Crime scene residues
• Suicide cleanup
• Homicide cleanup
• Blood cleanup
• Accident cleanup
• Hoarding scenes
• Animal waste/remains
• Chemical spills
• Tear gas cleanup

If you find yourself dealing with a sewage or biohazard emergency, SERVPRO of Greater Boulder wants to help. No matter what your emergency may be, we will always treat your property and the people involved with the greatest empathy and respect. We are available 24 hours a day and our highly trained technicians have the protective gear and specialized equipment necessary to safely clean and restore  your Boulder property. Call us today at (303)494-2000 to find out about our cleanup and restoration services. We’ll take care of your emergency and make it “Like it never even happened.”

Water Damage Testimonials in Boulder County, CO

3/15/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Greater Boulder has teams to care for your individual water damage needs.

SERVPRO of Greater Boulder is a trusted leader in cleaning and restoring water damage in Boulder County, CO. Homeowners in the area know that they can call our teams 365 days a year for assistance with damage due to flooding, a damaged pipe, leaky roofs, or any other cause.  Here are a couple of happy customers that SERVPRO of Greater Boulder was able to help.

“So thankful for a company like this when I need it most! We came home from a weekend away, to the sound of running water behind an exterior wall and into the unfinished crawlspace. The pipe had burst in the frigid temps, and was running for who knows how long. A quick call to Shilo, and Kris was at my door in minutes to pump it out!! I couldn’t ask for better responsiveness or care. Thank you so much, SERVPRO Greater Boulder!! You are definitely the ones to have on speed dial!”

-Ginny C.

“We had a major flood in our very large basement. SERVPRO came out quickly and did a 100% outstanding job in getting the water out, taking the baseboards and drywall out, removing the furniture that was damaged, and saving what could be saved. They were in constant communication. A flood is terribly upsetting and SERVPRO did a great job in mitigating the stress. We totally recommend them.”

-Marshall W.

Call SERVPRO of Greater Boulder 24/7 at (303)909-7325 for help with water damage in your Boulder County home. 

https://www.SERVPROgreaterboulder.com/water-damage-restoration

SERVPRO's Large Loss Diasaster Team

3/10/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Greater Boulder's Disaster Recovery Team Helps Communities in Need

Did you know that SERVPRO of Greater Boulder participates in SERVPRO’s large loss disaster team. We have teams that are ready to contribute to the restoration of cities nationwide following all types of disasters, natural or otherwise. There are commercial operations managers responsible for supervising each large loss so that we are able to contribute to timely mitigation/restoration with great communication. SERVPRO is able to dispatch trained production professionals and cut costs through the strategic placement and oversight of temporary labor. 

Clients for the Commercial Large Loss program include the following:

• The Hospitality Industry
• Property Managers
• Universities
• Municipalities

The SERVPRO Disaster Recovery Team can provide help whether you're dealing with a tornado, hurricane, blizzard or flood. Our system has a network of strategically positioned storm teams on standby should a disaster strike near you. Available to you 24 hours a day 365 days a year, we are prepared for the unpredictable.

https://www.SERVPROgreaterboulder.com/disaster-recovery

Fire Alarm Placement in Colorado

3/9/2022 (Permalink)

A smoke alarm can protect your home from fire damage in Boulder County, CO.

Smoke alarms are a useful tool to protect your belongings and loved ones safe by alerting you in case of a fire. 

The National Fire Protection Agency recommends that fire alarms are installed on every floor of a home or business and inside and outside of every bedroom or place where someone sleeps. Alarms should be mounted in the middle of a ceiling, but if you are unable to mount your alarm on the ceiling, they can be mounted on the wall.  If wall mounted, place the alarm within 12 inches of the ceiling and at least three feet from corners. 

Keep smoke alarms away from:

• Fans and air ducts, they can blow smoke away and cause the alarm to not respond appropriately
• The shower or kitchen stove, the heat/steam/smoke from these can cause a smoke alarm to sound when there is not actually any danger. 

If your smoke alarm sounds, have a safety plan in place so that your family knows what to do. Before going through any closed doors, check to see if the doorknob is hot, and when moving through an area with a fire, crawl rather than walk to avoid smoke inhalation. If you are able to safely exit an area without help, do so before calling 911.  

If you or someone you know is in need of assistance with smoke damage or help with cleaning after a fire, call SERVPRO of Greater Boulder at (303)494-2000.  

https://www.firstalert.com/on/demandware.store/Sites-firstalert-Site/default/Content-Show?cid=smoke-alarm-tips

Process of General Commercial Restoration in Boulder, CO

3/9/2022 (Permalink)

Commercial properties may need assistance with restoration in case of an accident.

At SERVPRO of Greater Boulder we know that at work you mean business, and we mean business when it comes to keeping your commercial properties clean and in good repair. SERVPRO offers commercial cleaning services in addition to commercial restoration in water, fire, mold, or storm damage that may lead to fire and water issues. 

Water Damage: detailed inspection and damage assessment-> water removal-> drying and dehumidification-> cleaning/sanitizing-> restoration

Fire Damage: inspection and damage assessment-> board up and roof tarp service to prevent further damage-> removal of smoke and soot-> cleaning/sanitizing-> restoration

Mold Damage: inspection and mold damage assessment-> containment-> air filtration-> removal of mold and infested material-> clean contents and belongings-> restoration

Should your building be dealing with any of these issues, SERVPRO of Greater Boulder has teams that are ready to come to your assistance any day or night of the year. Call (303)494-2000 for assistance from our trusted and qualified professionals. 

Maintenance of Smoke Alarms in Boulder CO

3/8/2022 (Permalink)

A smoke alarm should be maintained to protect your home or business from fire damage.

How many times have you had a smoke  alarm that’s beeping and you just silence it with the push of a button rather than dealing with the issue?

A fire can spark up without warning in a home or place of business and has the potential to destroy countless memories and years of work. A smoke alarm is a simple tool to help keep your things safe from a fire and quickly alert you to its presence. It’s important to keep your smoke alarms in good repair so that they can do their job. Here are a few tips about maintenance of a smoke alarm. 

The National Fire Protection Association recommends that each smoke alarm is tested once a month to make sure that they are working properly. Batteries should be replaced every six months and a fire alarm with a low battery “chirp” should never be ignored or silenced. A smoke alarm should be replaced at least every ten years or earlier.  

https://www.firstalert.com/on/demandware.store/Sites-firstalert-Site/default/Content-Show?cid=smoke-alarm-tips

Reviews from Happy Customers in Superior and Boulder, CO

3/8/2022 (Permalink)

Smoke damage after a fire in Boulder County, CO

Following the Marshal Fire this past winter in Superior and Boulder Colorado, SERVPRO of Greater Boulder aided the community in cleaning homes struggling from soot, ash, and smoke damage.  Here are a few reviews from some happy clients that we were fortunate enough to assist. 

“Aurora and her professional team of 10 worked on my house for 5 full days for smoke and ash mitigation in the recent Marshall fires in Louisville, Colorado. They did a magnificent job and I find no fault in their work as every surface was wiped clean of ash and soot. Her communication was spot on as there were no delays that were unexpected. In this most stressful time, I have to compliment Aurora on management and communication skills. She was also very responsive to my emails and phone calls and for that I really appreciate her. Thanks Aurora and your team.”

-Nicola H.

“Enrique at SERVPRO is great. We had a guest smoke in our airbnb and he was at the property within two hours. Would not hesitate to call them again!”

-Liliya B.

“They cleaned up soot, ash and smoke smell. Cleaned our house, basement and garage. Did a great job on getting our house healthy again.”

-Mark T. 

https://www.SERVPROgreaterboulder.com/

Be Prepared in Case of a Storm Evacuation in Boulder County, CO

3/8/2022 (Permalink)

Keep your four legged friends in mind when preparing an emergency kit.

Every home should have an emergency kit ready to roll in case of an evacuation due to a storm in the areas around Boulder, Superior, and Nederland, CO. SERVPRO of Greater Boulder suggests having these items prepared and stored in a waterproof container in the event that you would need to leave your home.

• Copies of medical insurance & Medicare cards
• Warm blankets
• Extra clothing, especially socks & undergarments
• Bottled water
• A three day supply of non perishable food
• Batteries for your electronic devices
• Written contact list
• A week long supply of prescription medications and other medical necessities 

If you have pets, remember to prepare their emergency kit as well with pet food, toys, beds and other comfort objects, and vet information.  Some shelters will not or cannot allow pets. Ahead of an emergency, find out which ones will allow your 4-legged friends. All shelters allow service animals.

You cannot always prepare for a storm or know how weather may change, but you can make efforts to keep your family protected and safe. Should you need help to clean up after a storm, SERVPRO of Greater Boulder is here to make it, “Like it never even happened.” Call (303)494-2000 for assistance with storm damage. 

https://www.fema.gov/press-release/20210318/how-build-kit-emergencies#:~:text=Water%20(one%20gallon%20per%20person,Flashlight

Lightning and Thunderstorm Safety in Boulder, CO

3/4/2022 (Permalink)

A storm surrounding an office building in Boulder, Colorado.

When a lightning or thunderstorm occurs, the public should generally try to stay inside of a safe area or building, rather than venturing out.  SERVPRO of Greater Boulder wants to share the following safety tips for staying safe during a thunderstorm while inside of a commercial building:

• Unplug appliances if possible.
• Pay attention to all alerts and warnings, as a thunderstorm can develop into a tornado if powerful enough.
• Avoid running water since electricity can travel through plumbing.
• Stay away from all windows, especially during a lightning storm.  

Although weather can be predicted, it can also change in an instant without much warning. If a thunderstorm does happen to turn into a tornado  in Boulder, consider the following tips:

• Use your arms to protect your head and neck in the event of flying debris or shattered windows.
• Do not leave the safe area until the local alerting system says it is safe to do so.
• If the commercial building has a basement or storm cellar, head there immediately.

SERVPRO of Greater Boulder is here to help. Our trained team members will show up ready to  begin the cleanup and restoration process after a storm. If you experience water damage, fire damage, or mold damage from a storm, we are here to make it "Like it never even happened." Call (303)494-2000 for assistance. 

SERVPRO of Greater Boulder Assists Centura Avista Hospital After Marshall Fire

2/4/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Employees Celebrate Reopening of Centura Avista Hospital in Louisville, CO

Following the Marshall fire, SERVPRO of Greater Boulder sent crews to Centura Avista Hospital in Louisville, Colorado. 

Around 100 of our professionals performed high level cleaning and restoring of the facilities in order to return the hospital to its full potential for care of the community.  

The Marshall fire tore through Boulder County during the end of December and beginning of January this year, leaving devastation in its wake. Over 1,000 homes in Louisville and Superior were destroyed and thousands more were affected by smoke damage. Centura Avista Hospital is the only hospital in Louisville and works hard to support the community in Boulder County.  Having them reopen as soon as possible after the fire was imperative for the wellbeing of the people in Louisville. 

Thanks in part to the hard work of our employees, Avista Hospital was able to reopen its doors less than three weeks after having to be closed due to being threatened by the fire.  We are proud to have done our part for the community of Boulder County to provide its residents with the support they need.   

https://www.thedenverchannel.com/news/marshall-fire/avista-hospital-set-to-open-after-marshall-fire

https://www.centura.org/news/centura-avista-adventist-hospital-reopen-tuesday-jan-18

Cleaning after the Marshall fire in Boulder, Superior, and Louiseville CO

1/1/2022 (Permalink)

The Marshall fire caused extensive damage to the communities in Boulder County, CO.

As Boulder County and its surrounding areas try to recover after the devastating Marshall fire, some of those in our community may be wondering how to return to their everyday life and restore their property to pre-fire and pre-smoke condition.  If any smoke, soot, or ash entered your home, the sooner clean up starts the better, as the debris from fires can cause lasting damage if left on surfaces.   We care about our community and want you to be able to save the important items in your home or business.  

One of the most effective solutions for removing fire damage and controlling odors left behind is TSP, or tri-sodium phosphate.  TSP can be mixed into different solutions depending on what needs to be cleaned.  TSP is corrosive, so if you choose to use it, make sure to wear rubber gloves to protect yourself and read any warning labels.

Some recommendations from the Red Cross on the usage of TSP

For clothes:

Mix 5 tablespoons TSP in with laundry detergent before washing with warm water.

For walls, floors, and furniture:

Mix 5 tablespoons TSP with 1cup household cleaner into a gallon of water.  After being washed from the floor up to prevent streaking, all areas should be rinsed with warm water then dried.  

https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/fire/cleaning-up-after-fire.html

SERVPRO of Greater Boulder is here for you!

We are so sorry to those in our community who experienced a loss during this time.  Know that our thoughts are with you and please reach out to us at (303)494-2000 if you are in need of help dealing with the aftermath of the Marshall fire.   

Restore Your Business and Documents After Water Damage Strikes in Boulder, CO

12/3/2021 (Permalink)

Act fast when water damage strikes to salvage damaged documents and other important belongings in Boulder, CO.

When water damage strikes it can cause damage to both the property structure and it can also affect the contents of the building including important documentation. When documents and contents for your business get wet from a pipe break or sprinkler system malfunction, the team at SERVPRO of Greater Boulder is here to help you restore not only the structure but also the contents. 

We know that when your business is in need it needs to be fixed the right way, right away. 

When you call SERVPRO of Greater Boulder, we have crews available to respond and begin the water removal and drying process immediately.  We will also begin restoring and cleaning any items that can be salvaged, including important documentation.

tOur goal is to help get things back up and running as quickly as possible so that you can get back to serving your customers.  Call SERVPRO of Greater Boulder day or night 365 days a year for assistance with water damage and mitigation at (303)494-2000.

https://www.SERVPROgreaterboulder.com/water-repair-process

American Family Insurance names SERVPRO as Preferred Partner in Emergency Water Removal Program

12/3/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Greater Boulder provides emergency water removal so that you can get your home or business back to preloss condition in Boulder, CO.

SERVPRO of Greater Boulder is one of the leaders in water remediation and we are trusted by our clients to do timely and effective work related to water damage.  

We are proud to have been selected as a preferred vendor for American Family Insurance for their Emergency Water Removal Program. 

From the American Family Emergency Water Removal Program informational page:

“The earlier you begin the water damage mitigation process, the less likely it is that additional damage will occur to your property. Our Emergency Water Removal Program vendors focus on drying affected structural components in place as opposed to demolition — meaning less damage, lower reconstruction costs and generally a shorter period of time necessary to get your home back to preloss condition.

Our preferred contractors are your advocates. They have a common goal to provide a rapid and efficient removal of water problems you might encounter in your home.”

https://www.amfam.com/claims/emergency-water-removal

https://www.SERVPROgreaterboulder.com/water-repair-process

SERVPRO of Greater Boulder is committed to providing outstanding service to our clients 365 days a year to make it “Like it never even happened.”  If you are in need of assistance with water mitigation, call (303)494-2000 and we will be there for you quicker than you can say burst pipe! 

Most Common Fires and Ways to Prevent Them in Boulder, CO

11/19/2021 (Permalink)

Candle burning in Boulder, CO

House or business fires endanger those around them and can cause thousands of dollars in fire and smoke damage.  Fortunately, the most common causes of fires can be avoided by simple measures to avoid damaging your home.

Cooking

The majority of fires in the kitchen happen when food is left unattended.  Don’t walk away from food especially when using grease or oil.  Also, make sure that any portable appliances like toasters are cooled down before they get stowed away.

Heating

Move any curtains or other combustible fabrics away from portable space heaters and never leave the house with them running.  

Electrical

Have a professional electrician come over to check wiring in your home and make sure that it isn’t outdated or damaged in any way.  Also refrain from performing electrical repairs unless you have extensive experience.  

Smoking 

If you smoke, it’s a good idea to only do so outside and to make sure that a cigarette butt is fully put out before it gets thrown away so that it doesn’t spark a fire inside your house.  

Candles

Remember to always put candles out before you leave home.  Make sure to also keep candles out of reach of children or pets who may knock them over and away from flammable materials. 

If your house is damaged by a fire, SERVPRO of Greater Boulder can help with mitigation and dealing with any odor or smoke clean up. 

Reach out if you need assistance with fire damage at (303)494-2000. 

https://www.SERVPROgreaterboulder.com/fire-smoke-damage-restoration

Types of Fire Extinguishers and When to Use Them

11/18/2021 (Permalink)

A fire extinguisher is a great safety tool to have on hand in case of emergency.

If a fire happens, you want to be prepared! The best thing that every person can know is how to put out a fire if one happens in their home or place of work.  Fire extinguishers come in five different types (A, B, C, D, and K) and they are each tailored to the materials they are meant to extinguish. 

Types of Fire Extinguishers:

A- The standard fire extinguisher that most people are familiar with. These extinguishers can be used on fires in/on wood, cloth, rubber, paper, and plastics.

B- This type of extinguisher is used for flammable liquids like: gasoline, lacquers, paint, oils, tars, or alcohols.

C- Used fires started by electrical equipment.

D- For fires dealing with combustible metals like titanium, sodium, potassium, or magnesium.

K- These extinguishers are for fires occurring in flammable cooking materials like animal fats and oils.

If you find yourself in a fire situation that you are able to safely manage, make sure you are using the correct fire extinguisher for your specific needs.  Never hesitate to call 911 if you are unable to safely manage the fire yourself.  SERVPRO of Greater Boulder is here for you if you need assistance with fire damage and restoring your space to its former glory.  Call us 24/7 365 days a year at (303)494-2000.

https://www.nfpa.org/News-and-Research/Publications-and-media/Blogs-Landing-Page/NFPA-Today/Blog-Posts/2021/07/16/Fire-Extinguisher-Types

Checking Your Roof for Damage After a Storm

11/12/2021 (Permalink)

A Thunderstorm Raining on a Roof in Boulder, CO

Rain, hail, snow and wind during a storm can wreak havoc on your home. 

There are a couple of things everyone should do to inspect their roof to check for any signs of damage.

Inspect the Exterior

Look over the entirety of your roof, checking for any cracks in shingles or other roofing materials.  If it is safe to do so, the best way to do this is to physically climb onto your roof and look from as many angles as possible.  Also, make sure that all seals are still in good shape.  

Inspect the Interior

Look for visible Signs of water damage.  See if you can find any water leaking from the ceiling.  Are there any signs of warping on the walls, ceiling, or in the corners? If so there may be a leak causing water damage or even mold.  Make sure to venture into the attic, as well, to see if there are any signs of moisture. 

Storms pass, but damage doesn’t always.  Storms can bring with them water damage and potential issues with mold.  If you find any storm damage affecting your house and need help with water or mold remediation, call SERVPRO of Greater Boulder at (303)494-2000. We are here for you 24/7, 365 days a year. 

Preparing Your Yard for Winter Storms in Boulder

11/4/2021 (Permalink)

Winterize your yard so that snow storms won't cause damage to your home.

Has your yard been winterized yet?

The colder months are looming! It’s that time of year again where Coloradans need to start thinking about freezing temperatures and preparing outdoor spaces for winter storms.  We at SERVPRO of Greater Boulder want to remind you of a couple key areas to prepare to avoid water damage in your yard and home this year. 

• Gutters

Gutters that are clogged up with leaves and other debris create a barrier for snow and melted water to drain.  If this wet sludge refreezes it creates an opportunity for cracking and water damage.  Remember to clean out your gutters before the first storms arrive.

• Spigots 

Spigots should be turned off and drained, making sure to remove any hoses and attachments.  If they are left on it creates spaces for water to become trapped and then freeze and expand.  

• Sprinkler/Irrigation System

Like spigots, irrigation systems run the risk of cracking and creating water damage if any water is left behind in them.  The best way to ensure that your sprinkler system is clear is  to use an air compressor and do the “blow out” method. First, turn off the main water supply and drain the pipe.  Then, making sure that the compressor air flow valve is closed, attach the compressor to the water main.  Slowly open the compressor valve and allow it to push out all of the water from the system until it runs dry. 

We hope that you have a cozy and safe winter season! If anything does happen to any of your outdoor spaces that requires our professional help, SERVPRO of Greater Boulder is always here to help! Call us 24/7 at (303)494-2000.

Buying a New Home in Boulder County

10/28/2021 (Permalink)

Protect your family and friends by having your new home inspected for potential health hazards.

Buying a new house is exciting, but it’s important to do your homework to ensure you are going to be happy and healthy in a new abode! 

A home inspection is a wonderful tool for checking the basics, but did you know that a house inspector is not responsible for checking your new home for mold or asbestos? We at SERVPRO of Greater Boulder can help connect you to the right resources to make sure that you aren’t buying a house without knowing whether or not you are dealing with these common and dangerous issues.

Mold

Black mold, or stachybotrys chartarum, is notorious for being the worst mold that you can find, but there are many other types of mold that can create health issues as well.  If mold damage is found in your house, we recommend leaving the affected areas alone and avoiding that area until our professionals can assist with mold removal.

https://www.SERVPROgreaterboulder.com/black-mold

Asbestos

Our asbestos abatement professionals can help make sure that your future home is safe for family and friends.

https://www.osha.gov/asbestos

We hope that your new home is in perfect condition! However, if you find yourself in a situation where you need to make it “Like it never even happened.” SERVPRO of Greater Boulder is here and happy to help!

Commercial Fire and Water Damage in Boulder, CO

10/28/2021 (Permalink)

Don't underestimate the impact that smoke damage can have on your office.

SERVPRO of Greater Boulder is certified to help with commercial fire and water damage restoration in Boulder, CO. 

Some of the many aspects of fire and water damage that our technicians are able to assist with are odor control, removal of smoke and soot, water mitigation and drying, clean up, repair, and restoration.  SERVPRO of Greater Boulder is able to repair the damage from start to finish and leave the area looking “Like it never even happened.” We are available for emergency contact 24 hours a day, seven days a week and want to help our clients to get back to business as quickly as possible!  

From Andrew C. in Boulder:

“We had a small fire in my research facility. The fire was put out relatively quickly by the sprinkler system, but the smoke and water damage permeated throughout the laboratory. The damage was immense. SERVPRO of Greater Boulder was there within a few hours of the fire department leaving the facility. They had the water off the floor that night. Early the following morning SERVPRO was there with an army of personnel to start wiping soot off every surface...SERVPRO led the effort from the initial mop up on the night of the fire through the final painting and finish of the room. It looked great when they were done. They were professional, knowledgeable, efficient and courteous. If you need the job done right and done fast I highly recommend SERVPRO.” 

https://www.SERVPROgreaterboulder.com/commercial-restoration-services

How to Get Flood Insurance in Boulder County

10/21/2021 (Permalink)

Don’t be caught off-guard if you experience a flood. Know your flood insurance coverage.

SERVPRO of Greater Boulder knows that most property insurance does not cover flood damage.

While the rules for insurance vary by state, flood insurance is an exception. Most insurance rates vary by company.

Some homeowners’ policies will cover water damage if the damage comes from:

• Sudden & accidental damage from plumbing, heating systems, or air conditioning
• Sewer or drain backup

The policy might also cover mold remediation, but not if a flood caused the problem.

SERVPRO of Greater Boulder shares how to get flood insurance in Boulder County:

• Check whether your community participates in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). You can still get flood insurance if you live in a low-risk area. The insurance will cost less if you live in a low-risk area.
• Find an insurance agent in Boulder County. The NFIP is the only flood-insurance provider, but the government does not sell it. Buy the insurance through an insurance agent. The NFIP sets the rates.  If you need help finding a provider go to FloodSmart.gov/flood-insurance-provider
• If your insurance agent doesn’t know about the NFIP, call the help center at 877-336-2627.

***

Links:

https://www.usa.gov/property-insurance

https://www.fema.gov/flood-insurance

Emergency Kit for Evacuation for the Deaf, Blind, and Service Animals in Boulder

10/21/2021 (Permalink)

Small preparations can make for life saving results.

Low vision or hearing loss may make a power outage more difficult in Boulder and evacuation more challenging.

SERVPRO of Greater Boulder has these tips:

Have an evacuation emergency kit ready.

For people who have low hearing or deafness in Boulder, consider the following:

• Extra batteries for hearing aids
• TTY (teletypewriter)
• If you Sign, have a pen and paper for people who do not know Sign
• Backup batteries for any augmentative communication devices

For people who have low vision or blindness in Boulder, consider the following:

• Use large-print or Braille on labels
• Magnifiers or other assistive devices
• White cane (if you use one)

Storm damage makes life more difficult for service animals too.

For people who have service animals in Boulder, consider the following: 

• Food, water, and other supplies
• Tell emergency responders that your service animal travels with you
• Shelters and other buildings may not refuse entry to a service animal

Links:

https://www.ready.gov/individuals-access-functional-needs

Properly Installed Smoke Detectors in Boulder, Louisville, Superior and Lafayette

10/21/2021 (Permalink)

Small things like regularly checking your batteries can save lives.

There is no structure that cannot be made safer with properly installed smoke detectors in Boulder, Louisville, Superior and Lafayette. 

These devices, when used as instructed, can save lives and property.  SERVPRO of Greater Boulder knows the safety of your family is your number one concern.  It is ours as well.  To reflect that, we recommend that your home be equipped with these devices outside and inside each sleeping area as well as on all levels (bigger homes require more detectors).  Closing the doors at night when you sleep will inhibit the movement of heat, smoke, and fire.  SERVPRO of Greater Boulder suggests testing your smoke alarms at least every thirty days and replacing them entirely at least once per decade.  Testing is done by pressing the test button to ensure each alarm is working.  Most professionals agree that your alarms should be interconnected so that, no matter where the smoke is detected, everyone in the house is alerted simultaneously.  When the alarms sound, immediately vacate your home and position you and your loved ones away from it until help arrives.

Tips for Standing Water in Boulder

10/14/2021 (Permalink)

Stay safe when flood waters are present.

Did you know that flood water can take up to eleven days to disappear in Boulder?  A flood doesn’t end just because the storm ends. All of the standing water still has to be dealt with or it can lead to all kinds of water damage.

SERVPRO of Greater Boulder suggests that if you have to evacuate your office to not go back until you have been told it is safe.

Be careful driving in Boulder.  Remember to “Go around. Don’t Drown!” The water may still be too deep for safe travel.

Floods are not natural swimming pools

• Sewage, debris, and other unpleasant things can be in the storm water leftovers
• Swimming, wading, or rafting can make you sick
• Don’t drink the water
• Water conducts electricity. Underground power lines can give you a dangerous shock

Flood waters and animals in Boulder:

• Snakes and other animals may get into your building. Wear work boots and heavy gloves when you clean up
• Some animals might find your office a cozy place to live
• If tap water is unsafe for you to drink, it is unsafe for your pets

Links:

https://www.ready.gov/floods

https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/emergency/extreme-weather/floods-standingwater.html

Plan ahead for Evacuation in the Event of a Storm for You and Your Pets in Greater Boulder

8/30/2021 (Permalink)

Be prepared for a storm evacuation with these tips.

SERVPRO of Greater Boulder has these tips for people with disabilities in our community during an evacuation

During times of flooding, you may want to consider 

• packing a bag to have ready in case the worst happens
• plan for backup transportation even if you have your own car because the storm or flood may damage your car

Ask your healthcare provider to suggest what specific devices you might need if you need to evacuate due to an emergency:

• Where can I get medical supplies?
• How do I get accessible transportation?
• If medical help is needed, where would I go?
• Does this facility have a disability ramp access (if needed)

Items to bring with you:

• Written list for emergency contacts
• List of all medications, dosages, and allergies
• Style & serial number of medical devices
• Supply of medical equipment
• Extra battery for a powered wheelchair
• Any cushions or padding
• Wheelchairs, canes, braces, etc.
• Medical bracelets with pertinent info for first responders/helpers
• Medical insurance cards
• List and/or supply of prescription medications

Our service animals are also affected by storm damage.  For people who have service animals in Boulder or Boulder county, please consider:

• Packing extra food, water, & other supplies for your service animal
• Tell emergency responders that your service animal travels with you
• Shelters and other buildings may or may not refuse entry to a service animal

Links:

https://www.ready.gov/individuals-access-functional-needs

Let SERVPRO of Greater Boulder bring the Clean-Up Equipment

8/30/2021 (Permalink)

When the unimaginable happens, SERVPRO of Greater Boulder is Here to Help

It won’t happen to us

“I don’t need to think about that. It won’t happen to us” says one spouse to another. They flip the light switches and drift off to sleep. A spark happens near wood; a flame is created inside a wall; and, before you know it you are answering questions from an insurance adjuster. You don’t know who you want to use to start the clean-up ball rolling in Boulder, but you need it done.

It happened to us

It seems too often that those things in life we think won’t happen—happen. They happen and we’re left holding the bag. Don’t allow yourself to be another victim. Let us bring the bags… …the rags, the vacuums, the masks, and the paint…We can help!

Call us at 303-494-2000 if the unimaginable happens and we will be there to help. SERVPRO of Greater Boulder will send technicians who are experts in fire restoration. Soot and smoke damage are things we understand.

Possible Causes for Water Damage in Lyons

8/30/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is ready when the unfortunate happens!

SERVPRO of Greater Boulder understands the different causes and categories of water damage in Lyons, CO

An old poem has the line, “water, water, everywhere”.  When you need to say this in your home or office, you know there is trouble. You may very likely be looking at water damage. There are several different possible causes of water damage in Lyons including:

• Leaky dishwashers or washing machines
• Clogged pipes
• Leaking roofs
• Broken toilet pipes
• Heavy rain
• Snow or ice accumulation

The amount of water damage depends on the amount of water and on the cause of the damage.

SERVPRO of Greater Boulder knows it is imperative to start the cleanup process as soon as possible. The longer your home or business is waterlogged, the more damage you will see (and the more expensive it will be to repair after cleanup has been completed).

Categories of Water Damage in Lyons:

1. Clean water. It might come from an overflowing sink or a broken appliance. The water does not pose a threat to people. However, keep in mind that any water will become contaminated after it stops flowing.
2. Gray water. This water is contaminated from the get-go. It comes from broken toilets or sump pumps. It might not look dirty, or it might be brown.

• Black water. Like gray water, it might not look dirty. One major source of black water is broken sewage pipes. Another source is any water that has been standing still.

***

Links:

http://www.thewaterpage.com/water-damage-effects.htm

The Best Fire Control is Fire Prevention in Gunbarrel and Niwot

8/30/2021 (Permalink)

Learn about the best ways to prevent fire from destroying your home or office.

The U.S. Fire Administration reports that a small flame can turn into a major fire in just 30 seconds. Flames and smoke can fill the house in just a few minutes. SERVPRO of Greater Boulder will help you recover from fire damage. We hope you never need that kind of help.

The best fire control in Gunbarrel and Niwot, Colorado is fire prevention.

Fire Prevention Week this year is from Sunday, October 3rd to Saturday, October 9th. 

SERVPRO of Greater Boulder offers these Tips for Fire Prevention: 

• Items that can catch fire include: dish towels, oven mitts, paper, curtains, wooden spoons, decorations
• Heat sources include: light bulbs, fireplaces, stove tops, furnaces, candles, or electric heaters.
• Keep items that can catch fire at least 3 feet away from heat sources
• Keep kids at least 3 feet away from heat sources
• Turn off heat sources when you leave the home or go to bed
• Never use the oven as a heater
• Have the fireplace chimney inspected & cleaned once a year

SERVPRO of Greater Boulder suggests you keep one or more fire extinguishers available.

Remember fire is fast. If there is a fire, leave and bring everyone with you. Call 9-1-1 from outside the home.

Links:

https://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/ 

Commercial Lighting Equipment Safety Information

6/3/2021 (Permalink)

Commercial Lighting Equipment Safely Information

SERVPRO® of Greater Boulder wants to share the following information about commercial fires and how safety equipment helps to lessen the damage and can assist in preventing any bodily injury. According to the NFPA (National Fire Protection Association), one of the most common causes of commercial fires is electrical and lighting equipment. This type of fire is not easily predicted, as the lighting equipment can look totally fine on the outside in your Boulder or Ara place of business.

Tips and Information:

• If there is a lot of smoke inside the building, cover your mouth and nose and do your best to not inhale any of it
• Building sprinklers should be examined and tested every 5 years
• There should always be a fire extinguisher in reach inside of a commercial building and they must be checked annually to ensure they are in working order
• If an office building is on fire, exit the building immediately and do not try to fight the fire yourself
• Wet pipe sprinklers installed in the ceilings of commercial buildings are very effective in helping to fight the fire(s)

In the unfortunate event that a commercial building in Ara does catch fire, rest assured that SERVPRO of Greater Boulder is prepared to help clean up any fire damage the building/area has sustained.

SERVPRO of Greater Boulder is independently owned and operated.

Link: https://www.nfpa.org/News-and-Research/Data-research-and-tools/Building-and-Life-Safety/US-Structure-in-Office-Properties

What To Do If You Have PTSD During Thunderstorms In Superior Colorado

6/3/2021 (Permalink)

Don't let a storm throw you into a panic attack. Be prepared.

Did you know that almost 7% of people in the U.S. have suffered from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

People who have PTSD may experience panic during thunderstorms. Thunderstorms and lightning can set off  a person’s alarm bells.

SERVPRO of Greater Boulder offers these guides to coping with PTSD during storms: 

The best strategy is to be prepared.

• Take care of your emotional health. See a therapist. Learn relaxation exercises. When you feel anxious, you can relax yourself
• Know when a thunderstorm is likely. Plan what you will do during a thunderstorm  
• Take care of your physical health. Eat a healthy diet. Get enough sleep. Do not rely on alcohol or other drugs.  Do not smoke or chew tobacco 

During a Thunderstorm in Superior, Colorado

• Slow down your breathing
• Look around. Notice where you are. Notice that you are in a safe place
• Distract yourself from the storm. Wear headphones and listen to music. Sit in a pop-up tent
• Talk with someone you trust

All of this can be compounded if the storm generates damage to your home or office. Sometimes flooding occurs, while other times you may spring a leak. If this happens, give SERVPRO of Greater Boulder a call and we can make the water damage “Like it never even happened.”

NWS Awareness and Preparedness Calendar

3/16/2021 (Permalink)

Are you prepared for severe weather in Colorado?

It’s always good to be prepared when it comes to severe weather in Colorado!  

Do you know what precautions to take when severe weather hits us here in Colorado?  Did you know that The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s National Weather Service has an Awareness and Preparedness calendar per state?  You can check out Colorado’s Awareness and Preparedness calendar here.  These National Safety Campaigns (usually one-week long) are set aside to help us draw attention to being prepared for severe weather year round.  See Colorado campaign dates below:  

• Fire and Flood Awareness Week - March 7-13, 2021
• Severe Weather Awareness Week - April 11-17, 2021
• Lightning Safety Week - June, TBD
• Winter Weather Awareness Week - October 17-23, 2021

Along with severe weather can come various losses like water damage, fire damage, mold damage, etc.  In the event that severe weather causes any damage to your property (whether commercial or residential), call SERVPRO of Greater Boulder for help!  We’ll make every effort to make your damage look “Like it never even happened.”

Call our 24/7/365 Emergency number at (303)494-2000.

Colorado Weather Unpredictable

3/16/2021 (Permalink)

Are you prepared for Colorado's unpredictable weather?

Much to the chagrin of many Coloradoans, April showers don’t always bring May flowers.  Springtime here in the Rockies means a whole lot of different possibilities when it comes to weather and therefore, we all have to be prepared for radical weather changes at any time.

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), every year Americans are forced to cope with: 10,000 severe thunderstorms, 5,000 floods or flash floods, 1,000 tornadoes, and two land-falling deadly hurricanes.  This severe weather can leave us with catastrophic results: around 500 deaths per year and nearly $15 billion in damage!

Don’t wait for a severe weather event to prepare.  Click on the link above for recommendations on how to prepare, to form plans, build an emergency kit, and keep you, your family and your home safe!

What Does IICRC mean anyway for your commercial facility in Boulder?

3/16/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Greater Boulder is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.

IICRC Certified Firms must

• Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.
• Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.
• Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.
• Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.
• Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.

The IICRC Develops The Standards For The Restoration Industry

The IICRC has been the driving force in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation. These IICRC standards take years to develop and require the coordination of experts in the field: manufacturers, industry organizations, insurance professionals, training schools, contractors, and public health professionals.

Every five years, the standards are reviewed and updated. The water damage restoration field changes rapidly with advancements in technology and science, and therefore the standards must evolve to keep pace.

About SERVPRO of Greater Boulder

SERVPRO of Greater Boulder specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: from initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

• AMRT - Applied Microbial Remediation Technician
• OSHA - 30-hour General and/or Construction Industry Training Program
• CCT - Carpet Cleaning Technician
• IICRC Certified Firm
• ASD - Applied Structural Drying Technician
• SRT - Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician
• OSHA - 10-hour General and/or Construction Industry Training Program
• WRT - Water Damage Restoration Technician
• OCT - Odor Control Technician

Water Damage After a Hard Freeze

3/16/2021 (Permalink)

We not only mitigate, we do full reconstruction after a water loss

A ton of water damage hit our Boulder community hard just a few weeks ago with the “dangerous, record-breaking cold...and...some of the lowest temperatures, including -33 degrees”.  From large commercial spaces, schools to multifamily and private residences, Boulder residents needed help!  Pipes were bursting from fire suppression systems exploding, water main breaks and pipe bursting.

We at SERVPRO of Greater Boulder are able to handle all your water damage needs.  We are a full-service restoration company that offers not only mitigation, but full reconstruction as well.   This means that we not only can extract water and dry out your property’s space, but we demolish the irreparable damage and can reconstruct it to make it look “Like it never even happened.”

You can trust us because of our experience, expertise, honesty and integrity.  

Call us anytime you need us!  

SERVPRO of Greater Boulder: (303)494-2000.  We are available 24/7/365.

Learn About the Proper Use of Fire Extinguishers

3/16/2021 (Permalink)

Do you know how to properly use a fire extinguisher?

Proper use of fire extinguishers can prevent a fire from destroying lives.

Owning a fire extinguisher is not enough, although many people think that is all they need.  The Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) requires that employers train their employees how and when to use fire extinguishers. They must provide the training shortly after the employee is hired, and then every year thereafter. If you haven’t been trained yet, please get with your boss and let them know. You do NOT want to skip this training!

OSHA does not allow untrained employees to use a fire extinguisher.

OSHA also requires monthly inspections of the fire extinguishers.

Fire extinguishers have to be placed where they cannot be moved or damaged..

The carrying handle should be 3 ½ - 5 feet above the floor.

Employees must know when to use fire extinguishers.

We at SERVPRO of Greater Boulder suggest asking yourself these questions regarding fire extinguishers. 

• Have I pulled the fire alarm?
• Is the fire extinguisher easy to reach?
• Do I know how to use it?
• Is the fire contained in a small area?
• Is the smoke non-toxic?
• Can everyone get out?
• Do I have an escape route?

If you can answer “yes” to all of the questions, it is reasonable to use the fire extinguisher.

Remember that fire is fast. If you cannot contain it within 30 seconds, get everyone out of the area. Call 9-1-1 once you are outside.

Links:

https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/emergencypreparedness/index.html

https://www.osha.gov/laws-regs/regulations/standardnumber/1910/1910.157

https://www.nfpa.org/public-education/by-topic/fire-and-life-safety-equipment/fire-extinguishers

Service with a Smile

3/16/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Greater Boulder's aim: service with a smile!

Having someone come into your home to do work of any kind can cause a little anxiety because they are unfamiliar.  Here at SERVPRO of Greater Boulder, we aim to help you have the best customer experience possible.  We don’t only want you to be happy with the job that we do, we want you to be happy with our production team members!

When you’ve got a team member like Enrique on your team, boy, does that make everyone happy!

Enrique is a wonderful example of the complete package we aim to offer you!  A job well done by a technician with a smile!  Enrique loves taking photos of the homeowners that he helps with smiles and thumbs up!

You can feel good when you choose SERVPRO of Greater Boulder, knowing that you’re not only going to get great service, but service with a smile!

Call us today!  (303) 494-2000.  :)

Know the Risks of Thunderstorms in Boulder County

3/16/2021 (Permalink)

Thunderstorms are beautiful, but can be dangerous

We here at SERVPRO of Greater Boulder know that in most places, thunderstorms can happen at any time of the day and any time during the year.

While thunderstorms can be beautiful, they can also be dangerous.  They can cause severe damage to your home and commercial property.

Thunderstorms can include lightning and can:

• Cause flash floods
• Cause tornadoes
• Create hail
• Reach winds over 50 MPH

Be prepared:

• Cut down or trim trees that may fall on your home or office
• Install surge protectors, lightning rods, or a lightning protection system
• Sign up for your community’s warning system
• Know the risk for thunderstorms in Boulder and in Boulder county.

You don’t have to wait for the thunder. If there is a thunderstorm warning, go inside. Once there:

• Unplug appliances
• Do not use landline phones in office or home
• Pay attention to alerts and warnings

If you can’t get inside a building:

• If you are swimming or in a boat, get to land immediately
• Find shelter
• If you are in a car, don’t touch anything metal
• “Turn around. Don’t Drown. '' Avoid flooded roads. 6 inches of moving water can knock you down. One foot of moving water can sweep away your car.

A lightning strike during a thunderstorm can leave a wake of destruction in its path. This can range from minor electrical issues to fire damage. Lightning is also a major cause of injury or death from weather-related dangers.  Most people survive being hit by lightning, but they often have long-term problems.

Link:

https://www.ready.gov/thunderstorms-lightning

Enjoy BBQs and Independence Day with Safe Office and Home Parties!

3/16/2021 (Permalink)

It's time to celebrate those office parties and at-home parties...safely!

With the holiday weekend finally here, we want to make sure everyone stays safe while still having fun! Fireworks cause an average of almost 20,000 reported fires per year; and in 2013, sparklers caused 41% of fireworks injuries. When firing up those grills remember that July is the peak month for grill fires. Here are some tips to ensure your 4th of July Barbecue is disaster-free!

-Propane and charcoal BBQ grills should only be used outdoors
-Keep your grill clean by removing any grease buildup from the grills and in trays below the grill
-When using a charcoal grill, let the coals cool completely before disposing of them
-Do not try to re-light or handle malfunctioning fireworks. Keep a bucket of water nearby in order to extinguish fireworks that don’t go off.

Stay safe and have fun this holiday weekend!

Mold Remediation

3/16/2021 (Permalink)

Mold can be a real nuisance.

We at SERVPRO of Greater Boulder want you to know how to handle mold in drywall.

Even a tiny bit of moisture can lead to mold growing behind drywall.  In this photo, the mold began growing in the ceiling above the bathtub.  (It is all too easy for mold to grow where there is moisture present, even in our semi-arid Colorado climate).

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) ruled that only licensed professionals can clean any surface that has more than 10 square feet of mold. The EPA cannot know how you take care of your home or business, but you will need an inspection if you want to sell. You may not even be able to see all of the mold but the sooner you get rid of it, the less damage it can cause.

SERVPRO of Greater Boulder is licensed in mold remediation.

Mold remediation means getting rid of the mold spores that become mold as well as fixing the root cause of the dampness.

Mold:

• can start growing on a damp surface within 24 hours
• can destroy the materials they grow on
• can spread and destroy adjacent materials
• grows from tiny spores that travel through the air

 SERVPRO of Greater Boulder can:

• remove drywall
• disinfect certain surfaces
• find the source of moisture
• stop the moisture problem
• do the reconstruction after demolition

Water Damage and What We Offer

3/15/2021 (Permalink)

We're not afraid of any water damage!

Water damage can occur at any time. Storms, floods, leaky pipes, and broken water heaters or appliances can be the cause. Here at SERVPRO of Greater Boulder, we want commercial and residential property owners at the University of Colorado and surrounding areas to know that water damage should be considered an emergency.  All water losses have the potential to become dangerous as items that are not thoroughly dried out can cause mold or microbial growth.  When a water emergency occurs, we are ready to provide extraction and cleanup services to remove the water, contaminants, and moisture and to clean, disinfect and deodorize the structure. We offer these services to repair water damage:

• Emergency contact. We will respond to any emergency 24/7
• Inspection and damage assessment
• Water removal and water extraction
• Drying and dehumidification services
• Cleaning and repair
• Odor removal
• Restoration

If you find yourself dealing with water damage, SERVPRO of Greater Boulder wants to help. No matter what your water emergency may be, our highly trained technicians are available 24 hours a day and have the specialized equipment necessary to safely clean and restore water damage for CU-Boulder, CU-Boulder area business owners and residents alike. Call us today at 303-494-2000 to find out about our cleanup and restoration services. We’ll take care of your water emergencies “Like it never even happened.”

Smoke & Soot

3/15/2021 (Permalink)

We can take care of all your smoke and soot damage!

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor.  We recently saw this happen to numerous homes and businesses from the horrendous wildfires in our state (three of the largest in Colorado history).  Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke – wet and dry - which leave different types of soot residue after a fire. Before we begin restoration, SERVPRO of Greater Boulder will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation varies, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke or Soot Damage?

Call SERVPRO of Greater Boulder Today – 303-494-2000.

Commercial Building Need Cleaning?

2/8/2021 (Permalink)

Collaboration is what it's all about.

Does your Boulder area commercial facility need a cleaning? 

Has it been affected by a water loss from a frozen pipe bursting?  Fire damage?  Storm damage?  Do you see mold growing??  Is your building older and are you concerned about asbestos?  

SERVPRO of Greater Boulder can handle ALL of these types of situations in commercial buildings.  It’s what we do; what we specialize in complete restoration.  SERVPRO of Greater Boulder will make your space look “Like it never even happened.”  Not only are we equipped to mitigate, decontaminate and restore, we also have a full construction division which allows us to do a complete “put back” and, should you ever be interested, a full remodel.  

Call us whenever your commercial establishment experiences any kind of emergency loss, needs a deep clean or when you're sitting back observing a need for a facelift.  We’ll take good care of you!  Read this post from our friends at A Precious Child: 

Restoration, Reconstruction and Environmental Partnership with Government Entities

1/8/2021 (Permalink)

Colorado Special Districts Property and Liability Pool

SERVPRO of Greater Boulder is proud to be a part of the Colorado Special Districts Property and Liability Pool. 

(The Colorado Special Districts Property & Liability Pool [the “Pool”] offers the broadest Liability, Property and Workers’ Compensation available to Colorado special districts per their site).

We are enthusiastic to continue to provide excellent service and performance for their restoration needs which include:

• Fire Damage
• Water Damage 
• Mold Damage 
• Sewer Damage
• Asbestos Abatement
• Meth Decontamination
• Biohazard 
• Reconstruction

SERVPRO of Greater Boulder has provided services for each one of these restoration needs for  the last three years and looks forward to building on our current relationship with them.  Thank you Colorado Special Districts Property and Liability Pool for your unwavering support!

Please check out the following post from their website to learn more about our services.

All Kinds of Storms Can Bring Water Damage

11/30/2020 (Permalink)

We Clean Up All Kinds of Water Damage

All Kinds of Storms Bring Water Damage

No matter the season, summer, winter, spring or fall, we can get storms here in Colorado.  Water damage in your home or office can come from a window leaking, roof damage or frozen pipes bursting.  

Water damage, if left unmitigated, can become a costly repair as the water can seep into drywall and the framing where you can’t see behind the walls.  Our SERVPRO of Greater Boulder team wants the residents of Boulder County to know that we have years of training and experience dealing with water damage and are always here to help should you need us! 

Specialized Dehumidification and Drying Equipment

After the water has been extracted and removed from the damaged area, we will begin the drying and dehumidification process. We use specialized equipment and industrial-grade dehumidifiers to help prevent further damage such as swelling and warping of floors, walls and furniture. Using room measurements, temperature and relative humidity readings, we will determine the type of equipment to use and will track the drying process using specialized monitoring equipment.

Call Us Today

We hope you don’t, but when you have a water damage emergency in your home or business, SERVPRO® of Greater Boulder wants to and can help!  Our team is specialized and trained to provide the highest level of  water damage cleanup and restoration. Call us today at 303-494-2000. We’ll clean and restore your home or business in Boulder and make it “Like it never even happened.”

Most Homeowners Insurance Does Not Cover Flood Damage

11/30/2020 (Permalink)

Some Flooding Insurance Will Cover, Some Flooding It Won't; How Do You Know?

Did you know that most homeowners insurance does not cover flood damage?  Fema.gov is a very helpful resource that reminds us: “Flood insurance is a separate policy that can cover buildings, the contents in a building, or both, so it is important to protect your most important financial assets — your home, your business, your possessions.”

Rules for insurance do vary from state to state, however, flood insurance is the exception.  

Some policies will cover water damage if the damage comes from:

• Sudden & accidental damage from plumbing, heating systems, or air conditioning
• Sewer or drain backup

We at SERVPRO of Greater Boulder would like to share how to get flood insurance in Boulder County:

• Check whether your community participates in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Something especially important to consider if you have a home or business that was just affected by the Colorado wildfires.  The loosened soil makes your property more vulnerable to flash flooding and mudslides.  
• Find an insurance agent in the city of Boulder or surrounding cities in the county.  The NFIP sets the rates, but doesn’t actually sell the insurance; you’ll have to go through an agent to do that. 

East Troublesome Fire Ravages Grand Lake, CO Community

11/20/2020 (Permalink)

Charred tree decorated to help restore hope

2020 has been...well, let’s say, a year to certainly remember. 

Apart from the obvious atrocities and devastations we’ve experienced with COVID, there have been widespread natural disasters: a severe derecho in Iowa, a record number of hurricanes in the United States South and Southeast and wildfires in California, Oregon and in our beloved home state of Colorado.  

Our team has recently been hard at work helping Grand Lake, Colorado to recover after the East Troublesome fire ravaged through their community.  We’ve been mostly helping with smoke mitigation, however, something that makes SERVPRO of Greater Boulder unique is that we also have a construction division, giving us the capacity to additionally bid out complete rebuilds.

This photo is poignant because it shows a charred little tree decorated with ornaments to help bring hope to the community that so desperately needs it.  We’re glad that we can in some small way help to restore hope as well.

Do You Understand the Basics of Using a Fire Extinguisher?

11/20/2020 (Permalink)

Fire Extinguisher Know-How

Hopefully, we all have easy access to a fire extinguisher in our home or place of business.  The question is, do you know how to use one and on what types of fires?  

A fire-extinguisher can certainly be very helpful in preventing fire and smoke damage from spreading throughout your home or office in the City and County of Boulder.  If the worst happens, remember that SERVPRO of Greater Boulder has caring experts to help you in cleaning up damage left from a fire.

OSHA has some helpful training tips (see below).  If you have any doubts or concerns at all, leave the premises and 911 once you are outside.

SERVPRO of Greater Boulder wants you to know that you can try to fight a small fire only if and only if:

• You have the right class of fire extinguisher
• You know how to use the fire extinguisher
• You can get to the fire extinguisher quickly. Fire is fast. Fire damage and smoke damage are less painful than injuries to you or others.

Types of Portable Fire Extinguishers 

• Class A fire extinguishers should be used to put out fires involving cardboard, paper, wood, dried vegetation. 
• Class B fire extinguishers should be used to put out fires involving flammable and combustible liquids, such as gasoline, diesel, oil, and oil-based paints, and many solvents. 
• Class C fire extinguishers are suitable for use to extinguish fires that involve appliances, tools, or other equipment that is plugged in or otherwise electrically energized, as well as for fires burning in close proximity to electrically-energized equipment. 
• Class D fire extinguishers are designed for use to extinguish combustible metals, such as magnesium or sodium, and are often designed for the specific type of combustible metal. This does NOT include ordinary carbon steel, only metals that will burn when ignited. 
• Class K fire extinguishers are designed to be used for putting out fires that involve oils and greases used for cooking in kitchens, such as vegetable and animal-based oils and fat.

Is Your Home Storm Ready?

11/13/2020 (Permalink)

Winter is coming! Are you ready?

Is Your Home Storm Ready?

No matter what season, it’s smart to consider storm-proofing your home.  Here are some tips to help you ensure that you are prepared from SERVPRO of Greater Boulder:

• Protect your property
• Are your trees and shrubs (especially close to your home) trimmed?
• Are your gutters clear of debris?
• Test that your sump pump is working properly.
• Be sure to report dangerous conditions surrounding your home
• Contact your local utility company to report any and all downed power lines, trees, or any flooding or ponding 
• Have an emergency kit readily available and consider adding to it the following:
• Non perishable food and water
• Flashlights and batteries
• First Aid Kit
• Charged portable charger for cell phone use

In the event that a storm causes any kind of loss in your home, contact us for help!  

SERVPRO of Greater Boulder (303)494-2000.

SERVPRO Ready Plan App

11/6/2020 (Permalink)

Download the SERVPRO Ready Plan App Today

Have you heard that SERVPRO offers a *FREE* Emergency Ready Plan App?? 

You can download it from the iTunes store today!!  This SERVPRO Ready Plan “allows for the creation of an emergency ready profile containing critical property information to help speed up response time after fire or water damage.”  

We are sure that whether you are running a business or a household you have a million different decisions to make daily.  This SERVPRO Ready Plan App will help make your life a bit easier by walking you through creating a plan of action if you ever were to have an emergency disaster situation on your business or personal property.   

It's crucial to be prepared and have a plan for your business or home *before* an emergency occurs so that everyone knows what to do if a disaster were to happen.  When water is pouring through the ceiling into your workspace you don't have time to check references or read online reviews of a particular restoration company which is why we strongly encourage you to download this app.  

Remember, SERVPRO of Greater Boulder is ready and here to help make any disaster "Like it never even happened."  24/7/365. 

SERVPRO of Greater Boulder (303)494-2000.

Water Loss in Nederland

10/29/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage as a result of a hard freeze.

We, at SERVPRO of Greater Boulder, are available 24/7/365 for all of your water emergencies, whether large or small. When water damage occurs, immediate action is critical.  Even a small delay can greatly increase the gravity of the water damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help

Call Us Today!  (303)494-2000.

With freezing temperatures upon us, the likelihood of a water loss in your home or property greatly increases.  When/if you experience any water damage, we will make sure to help guide you through it.  SERVPRO of Greater Boulder has specific water damage training and years of experience.  Water damage restoration is one of our specialties—in fact, it's the keystone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO professionals may be needed.

We will ask several questions:

• Your name and contact information
• Your insurance information (if applicable)
• The street address of the water-damaged home or business
• When did the flooding or water damage occur?
• What caused the water damage (if known)?
• Is there electricity available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO of Greater Boulder

SERVPRO of Greater Boulder specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

• CCT - Carpet Cleaning Technician
• WRT - Water Damage Restoration Technician
• SRT - Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician
• OSHA - 30-hour General and/or Construction Industry Training Program
• AMRT - Applied Microbial Remediation Technician
• OCT - Odor Control Technician
• OSHA - 10-hour General and/or Construction Industry Training Program
• ASD - Applied Structural Drying Technician
• IICRC Certified Firm

Choose SERVPRO of Greater Boulder for Your Fire Damage

10/22/2020 (Permalink)

If the unimaginable happens, SERVPRO of Greater Boulder will be there to help!

Too often in life, those things we think won’t happen...well, sometimes they do just that, they happen. The fires in our local Boulder, Colorado area have been nothing less than devastating. Our hearts and prayers go out to all of you who have been affected. Please know that we are here and we care. Let us help ease the burden of recovery; we'll bring the bags, the rags, the vacuums, the masks, and the paint…we'll help you get back. We offer exterior power washing slurry cleaning, interior smoke and odor air quality control, negative air machine rentals, carpet cleaning, ozone and hydroxyl treatments, contents cleaning, fire damage restoration/reconstruction and more!

If the unimaginable happens, we will be there to help. SERVPRO of Greater Boulder will send technicians who are experts in fire restoration. Soot and smoke damage are things we understand. Please be safe!

Call us at 303-494-2000 and we'll make it "Like it never even happened."

Call Us! We're the Fire, Smoke and Soot Damage Experts

10/22/2020 (Permalink)

After the fire, we'll be there!

Very invasive, smoke and soot are able to penetrate various areas within your home causing hidden damage and odor.  Using our smoke damage, we will inspect and assess the extent of the damage to develop a plan of action.  

Smoke and Soot Facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around pipes, seeping through the holes used by the pipes to travel from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.  Did you know that there are different types of smoke?

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry.  Which means, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Greater Boulder will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is unique, each one requires a tailored solution.  Rest assured, not only do we have the equipment, specific knowledge and know-how to restore your fire and smoke damage, our technicians are empathetic, respectful and will treat your space with care.

Do you need Help Dealing with Fire, Smoke or Soot Damage?

Call SERVPRO of Greater Boulder Today – 303-494-2000

Flooding

9/22/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Greater Boulder tech cleaning out basement in Louisville

Standing water from floods and even smaller puddles in your Boulder area home can become a source of disease and possible electrocution.  All kinds of things can be found in standing water such as animal waste, rotted plants, downed power lines, household waste, sewage and even wild animals.  If the water damage is inside your home, immediately turn off the electricity to your home and watch for any sources that might be contributing to accumulating debris, especially in bathrooms and kitchens.

To help reduce your risk to certain hazards associated with floods, SERVPRO of Greater Boulder suggests:

• Don’t drive in flooded areas

• Stay out of floodwater to prevent yourself from getting sick.

• If you come into contact with floodwater,

• Wash the area with soap and water as soon as you can

• Use alcohol-based wipes or sanitizer

• Wash clothes in hot water and detergent

• If you must enter floodwater, try to protect yourself by wearing rubber boots and gloves

• Be wary of sharp objects in floodwater.  

• If you are wounded, see a medical professional to determine whether or not you might need a tetanus booster

• Do not eat or drink anything contaminated by floodwater

• Do not let children play in floodwater

If you find yourself dealing with any type of water damage, contact SERVPRO of Greater Boulder right away at (303)494-2000.  We will be there and make your disaster “Like it never even happened.”

For further information, click here.

Thunderstorm Safety in the Greater Boulder area

9/22/2020 (Permalink)

If you have storm damage, call SERVPRO of Greater Boulder for help!

Thunderstorms can happen at any time of the day. 

Although they mostly occur in the summer, occasionally they can occur during other seasons.  They are magnificent to watch, but it’s wise to be extremely cautious when around thunderstorms since they are often associated with lightning, flash floods, hail, high winds and sometimes tornadoes which can all be incredibly dangerous.

To help protect yourself, it’s best to follow these suggestions:

• Trim or remove trees (especially that are dead) that could fall on your home or place of work
• Install surge protectors, lightning rods, or a lightning protection system
• Sign up for your community’s warning system
• Know the risk for thunderstorms in Boulder County

In the event of a thunderstorm, try practicing these safety precautions:

• Unplug appliances
• Do not use landline phones in office or home
• Pay attention to alerts and warnings

• If you are playing in water, get to land immediately and seek shelter
• Get inside your car
• Avoid flooded roads. It takes only six inches of moving water to knock you over and only one foot of moving water to sweep away your car

Other information here.

Electrical Fire Prevention

9/22/2020 (Permalink)

Fire safety is important to Boulder County residents

We here at SERVPRO of Greater Boulder want all our Boulder county residents to know that by taking precautions, you can help prevent electrical fires! 

The USFA recommends some great fire safety tips that go along with these additional recommendations.  Make sure... 

• Any electrical work is done by a licensed electrician
• To have a quality inspection is done when you’re considering buying a new home or doing a remodel.
• To plug only one heat-producing appliance (like a coffee maker, space heater or microwave) directly into a wall outlet at a time 
• To never use an extension cord with a heat-producing appliance or a major appliance
• Install arc-fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs) as they will shut off electricity when a dangerous condition occurs
• To replace broken or cracked electrical cords.
• To use ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) to reduce the risk of shock.  These shut off electrical circuits when they become a shock hazard.
• All light bulbs you use have the correct wattage.  Usually the lamp, etc. is labeled with what bulb should be used.  

Even with taking appropriate safety measures, fires can still happen.  Hopefully you won’t ever experience fire damage, but if you do, you know who to call!  SERVPRO of Greater Boulder is here to help, 24-7-365!  Call us at (303)494-2000. We’ll take care of your fire damage in Boulder county making it “Like it never even happened.”

It’s National Preparedness Month, Do You Have A Plan in Case of Fire?

9/15/2020 (Permalink)

Do you have access to a good-quality flashlight?

Severe weather and fires are dangerous, but when you make a plan, it can help you feel safer because you’re more prepared.  

According to the U.S. Fire Administration, even the smallest of flames can turn into a disastrous fire in a matter of only 30 seconds.  Did you know that there are risks for fire when there’s severe weather?  The U.S. Fire Administration sites the following as potential hazards and can contribute to a possible fire:  lightning, portable generators, leaking gas lines, damaged propane tanks and leaking vehicle gas tanks, water-damaged appliances or vehicles, debris near electrical wires and transformers, damaged or downed utility lines, exposed electrical outlets and wiring.  

We at SERVPRO of Greater Boulder want you to Be Prepared! 

Please consider the following fire safety recommendations by the U.S. Fire Administration:

• Test your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms regularly.
• Make sure your smoke alarm has a backup battery.
• Use surge protectors.
• Consider unplugging appliances.
• Disconnect motor vehicle batteries in flood-prone areas, Boulder has a lot of low-lying areas.
• Take steps to prevent pipes from freezing in the winters!  (Even just a couple of days when the outdoor temperatures remain below freezing can cause pipes to freeze). 

Review your home fire escape plan.

Tornadoes

9/12/2020 (Permalink)

The destruction that 150+ winds can do

Tornadoes, rotating columns of air that occur during a severe thunderstorm, can strike without much warning and can destroy homes and buildings within our Colorado communities.  Usually, we identify a tornado by it’s conical shape that is visible once it has started accumulating water droplets, dust and other kinds of debris and can have wind speeds reach up to 300mph.

Be Aware

Watch for a rotating funnel-shaped cloud whenever thunderstorms are present.  People often describe hearing a loud roar similar to a train when a tornado has touched down.  Know your community's warning system and understand the difference between a tornado watch and warning.

Generally, a warning means a tornado is already on the ground or soon will be.  Get to a safe place immediately.  A watch means conditions are favorable, and a tornado is possible.  NOAA Weather Radio or your local station are great resources for emergency information. 

Assemble An Emergency Kit

Assemble and have ready an emergency kit for you and your family.  Recommendations: 

• one gallon of water per person for at least three days
• 3-day supply of non-perishable food per person 
• battery-powered or hand-crank radio 
• flashlight, first aid kit, and extra batteries

Where To Go

Ideally, in the event of a tornado, you want to get to low ground or below ground: basement or storm cellar, an interior hallway, bathroom, or closet on the lowest level.  Go underneath a heavy table and use your arms to protect your head and neck.  Stay away from windows, doors and outside walls.

Understanding The Risk

Even though Colorado isn’t actually in the infamous “tornado alley”, we definitely get them so it’s important to remain vigilant to help keep you and your family safe.

If You Have Storm Or Tornado Damage

We can help! Call SERVPRO of Greater Boulder.  We offer emergency restoration services after a storm has passed.  Some of these services include roof tarping, covering broken windows, water removal, and structure dry out.  We're always available 24/7/365.  You can expect an immediate response day or night. (303)494-2000.

24 / 7 / 365

9/3/2020 (Permalink)

Shower line drain back up led to water leaking all over onto carpet in Superior home.

Did you know that SERVPRO of Greater Boulder is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and 365 days a year for any water emergency (disastrous or minor) that you might experience?  In dealing with water damage, time is of the essence!  Even a delay of just a few hours can allow the damage to increase exponentially!  

We Answer and are Ready to Help

303-494-2000

When you call, know that we will do our best to help you as fast as possible, understanding that you are likely upset and stressed!  Be rest-assured that we will guide you through the crisis.  SERVPRO of Greater Boulder has specific water damage training, experience and ultimately, expertise to help you as you navigate - you might even say that water damage restoration is in fact the cornerstone of our business!

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO pros may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

• Your name and contact information
• Your insurance information (if applicable)
• The street address of the water-damaged home or business
• When did the flooding or water damage occur?
• What caused the water damage (if known)?
• Is there electricity available (on-site)?

IICRC Certified

9/1/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Greater Boulder is an IICRC Certified Firm

Have you noticed this logo before and wondered what it stands for? 

The IICRC, which stands for The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification, is a not-for-profit organization that offers a certification program and set of standards for the inspection, cleaning and restoration industries to adhere to.  These standards exist not only to protect consumers, but also the professionals who work in these various industries.  Because many customers look for the certifications that the IICRC provides, it was crucial for us at SERVPRO of Greater Boulder to be a certified IICRC firm.  As one of their certified firms, we have the right to display their logo and you can find us on their Global Locator here.

About SERVPRO of Greater Boulder

SERVPRO of Greater Boulder specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage. SERVPRO of Greater Boulder can also mitigate mold and mildew from your home or business.

Our Denver Metro area local response consists of three franchises positioned throughout the Denver/Boulder area ready to react quickly to the needs of our clients. With two locations and a multitude of resources locally, our teams have been ready to help make it "Like it never even happened," since 1980.

• Certifications
• AMRT - Applied Microbial Remediation Technician
• ASD - Applied Structural Drying Technician
• CCT - Carpet Cleaning Technician
• FSRT - Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician
• IICRC Certified Firm
• OCT - Odor Control Technician
• OSHA - 10-hour General and/or Construction Industry Training Program
• OSHA - 30-hour General and/or Construction Industry Training Program
• OSHA - Other Training
• RRRP - Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation
• WRT - Water Damage Restoration Technician
• More recently, our professionals received additional training certifications regarding COVID-19 decontamination.

What Our Customers Are Saying About Us

8/27/2020 (Permalink)

Our SERVPRO of Greater Boulder air movers and dehumidifiers help to dry out Andrea's home after major water damage from a severe storm.

From Andrea:

“We found out that the main floor water damage had seeped into my home office and our floors and the ceiling were pretty wet, so more demo had to be done.

After over a 12 hour day for our amazing SERVPRO [of Greater Boulder] friends, demo is done and drying is in progress. They wanted to make sure the demo was done before they left so the machines could spend the night drying out the floor...they got the job done. These people are THE BEST.

I can’t say enough positive things about this amazingly compassionate crew. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts. We will forever be grateful.”

We pride ourselves on excellent customer service.

Without happy customers, there is no SERVPRO of Greater Boulder.  Going the extra mile to make you smile is what we do and why reviews like the one above are so heartwarming!  Our teams are highly trained in water and fire cleanup and restoration all while providing the best customer service.  Call us for any help you might need: SERVPRO of Greater Boulder: (303)494-2000.

Tips to Prevent Water Damage

8/27/2020 (Permalink)

We have the right equipment to help dry your home/business out in the event of a water emergency!

Water damage can happen to your Boulder home or business in many different ways.

In this blog, we will outline some of the most common sources of water damage. It's very likely that you have had water damage at one point or another, or may know someone who has. 

If you think about water damaging your home, you might imagine the cause to be from severe storm.  The unfortunate reality is that most water damages are caused when ordinary household appliances fail.  It's important to know the areas around your home that pose a threat for damage, and what to do after it happens. 

Washing Machines

Washing machine leaks are among the most common causes of flood damage in a home and can result in significant damage not only in the laundry room but also in adjacent rooms and areas.  Some laundry rooms are located on the second floor of homes thus multi-level damage can occur.  Remember to replace rubber and plastic hoses with reinforced steel braided hoses. Check connections periodically to make sure they are secure and replace the hoses every five years.

Sewer and Drain Backups

Sewer water has the potential to cause health issues, not to mention a disgusting smell. This can bring serious issues to the home or business owner. Water that backs up from a sewer is called "blackwater” and can contain all types of harmful contaminants. A professional cleanup company like SERVPRO of Greater Boulder is highly recommended to help in the event that this happens. Call us!  We will respond immediately to make your home safe again.  

Bathroom Leaks 

Bathroom water leaks cause significant damage to a home. This is especially true if the bathroom is located upstairs. The main culprit is usually a supply line to the shower or toilet. We can't see the copper pipes that carry the water inside the walls, but we can see and inspect the supply line to the toilet. It's a good idea to replace the older line with a stronger braided one. These steel braided hoses are less likely to fail and are a proactive way to lessen the chance of having a leak. 

Frozen Pipes

Colorado has beautiful winters and thankfully, we can enjoy fun outdoor winter activities.  We can also experience extremely low temperatures.  When outdoor temperatures drop and stay low and cold for even a few days, homes and businesses are likely to suffer from frozen pipes that then burst because the water inside those pipes freezes.  As freezing water expands, it causes the pressure inside the pipes to increase which very likely can lead to bursting pipes. There are a few ways to help prevent this from happening: 

Be sure to blow out your sprinkler system and detach garden hoses from exterior spigots.  Insulate pipes, especially those close to outside walls, attics, and crawl spaces where the chance of freezing is greatest. Seal air leaks surrounding pipes and keep garage doors closed if there are water supply lines in the garage.  

The Refrigerator

The copper pipe that brings in water to the ice maker might have a bad or loose connection, or it could be pinched. Like the other appliances in our homes, the fridge has a water supply line with continuous pressure. If that line becomes loose or broken in any way, water will spill out until the source is turned off. It's a great idea to familiarize yourself with where to shut the water off!

Sump Pump Failure

If you have a basement, you understand the importance of a sump pump. Without one, water can seep into your basement and cause lots of damage. One of the most common causes of a flooded basement is a sump pump that stops working. This could be that the pump is old and mechanically broken, but most likely, it's due to a power supply loss. When storms roll through, we can at times lose power to our homes.  That's why it's so important to have a battery backup in place in the event this happens to you. 

Call The Service Professionals 

If you should suffer water damage, whether from a weather-related event or a cracked pipe, overflowing bathtub or toilet, call the water damage experts at SERVPRO of Greater Boulder!  You can reach us for 24-hour emergency service at: (303)494-2000.  You can also click here to contact us online or use our live chat option.

At SERVPRO of Greater Boulder, we have specialized equipment, professional training, and certifications that allow us to restore your home or business to its pre-water damage condition and make it "Like it never even happened."

Once The Fire Truck Leaves

8/27/2020 (Permalink)

Massive fire in Louisville home resulting from an appliance catching fire.

Once the fire trucks leave, the first step to clean up and restoration is the board-up . This is part of the emergency services provided by SERVPRO of Greater Boulder. Firefighters will often break windows and cut holes in the roof to help air out the property from all the smoke and heat. The board-up is essential to secure your property from theft and liability.

How The Smoke Travels

Even small-scale fires in a home can result in large amounts of fire and smoke damage. If your HVAC (your heater or A/C) system is on, then the smoke will most likely enter through the return vents and be spread throughout the duct system. This will not only carry the smoke and the smoke damage throughout the house but also cause smoke damage to your ducts.

Your ducts might have dust throughout the system, which can absorb the smoke, meaning every time your air conditioner or heater turns on, you'll smell the residual smoke for weeks and months after the fire.

You won't need to worry about that if you call service professionals at SERVPRO of Greater Boulder. We will clean the furnace and HVAC system thoroughly to remove the smoke from your ducts.

Get The Water Out As Soon As Possible

SERVPRO of Greater Boulder responded to a fire damage call that received water damage that nearly equaled the amount of damage from the fire. Sometimes fires are put out by extinguishers, and water is not a factor in the cleanup process. When there is water damage in tandem with fire loss, the water's extraction must happen as quickly as possible.

The water removal process begins almost immediately. It is essential to remove the majority of the water as soon as possible to avoid mold growth. Our technicians use state of the art moisture detection equipment and years of experience to find the water trapped behind the walls and under floors. We then use dehumidifiers and air movers to remove the remaining water and complete the drying process.

Saving Your Belongings

Once our SERVPRO professionals arrive at your Boulder-area home or business, always in properly marked SERVPRO vehicles and uniforms, we can get to work on mitigation techniques designed to preserve your property and its contents. Processes like pack-outs remove the at-risk furniture and contents from your property to our secured warehouse.

Pack-outs provide a safe place for their storage and specialized attention until it is time to return them to your fully restored home. Separating the two gives us a better opportunity to clean and restore the structure. During their time with our Contents Department, individual items get cleaned, disinfected, and deodorized to be ready for their return to the property.

Our crews hand wrap and protect every large item, such as furniture, tables, chairs, and artwork. Smaller items are sorted and put into boxes. For inventory purposes, we photograph and label each item packed out and removed, and organize these pictures and labels in our proprietary software to keep track of your items during the entire process accurately.

Call The Service Professionals

If you experience a fire in your Boulder-area home or business, call the fire damage restoration specialist at SERVPRO of Greater Boulder We will respond immediately to your call, day or night 24/7/365.

We have the knowledge and equipment to remove all the fire and smoke damage and restore your property to how it was before the fire. We are a trusted leader in the restoration industry that business owners and homeowners have turned to for over 50 years to restore and repair their property.

Cleaning smoke damaged homes and businesses requires specialized training, materials, and equipment. Insurance companies trust SERVPRO of Greater Boulder to get the job done right. If your home experiences a fire or water damage, call the professional restoration at SERVPRO of Greater Boulder, and we will make it "Like it never even happened."

Storms Can Quickly Become Destructive

8/14/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Greater Boulder crews help protect a damaged roof with a tarp from the most recent derecho storm that blew through the midwest.

Storms can quickly become not only dangerous, but extremely destructive, especially when the right conditions all line up. 

Just as recently as a couple of days ago, the midwest suffered tremendous damage from a “derecho” that blew through.  According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) a derecho is “a widespread, long-lived wind storm associated with a band of rapidly moving showers or thunderstorms... and...while derecho winds typically are less than 100 mph, gusts as high as 130 mph have been recorded --- equivalent to those with strong EF2 tornadoes.”

SERVPRO of Greater Boulder was pulled in to help provide aid and relief to homeowners suffering from punctured rooftops and significant water losses inside their homes since the need is so vast!

Storm damage most typically leads to water damage, but fires can also result if the electricity is left on.  

Be safe after storm damage while you await our arrival and take these precautions: 

• Shut off the source of damage.
• Turn off electrical panel/electricity
• Try to get up as much of the standing water as possible
• Do NOT go into any area of your home where electricity and water have mixed
• Pick up magazines/newspapers that can cause stains on carpet
• Do NOT use your household vacuum cleaner since it could result in electrical shock or ruin your vacuum.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned – a defensive cleaning program

6/16/2020 (Permalink)

Our defensive cleaning program gives your business a way forward by providing your employees and customers ongoing safety and assuredeness.

Let us help you get back to business

As our communities re-open, we’re all moving back toward a new kind of normal. The expectations of visitors, customers, and employees who come into our establishments have evolved, and staying safe and well is a top concern. The global COVID-19 pandemic has changed what it means to be clean, and we’ve developed a program to help your business meet the new higher standard of clean that is now expected.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is a defensive cleaning program we’re offering to businesses and commercial locations to address the current COVID-19 pandemic. This proactive viral pathogen cleaning program goes well beyond janitorial or carpet cleaning. By choosing Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you, your employees, your customers, and your community can rest assured that you’ve selected a higher cleaning standard – you are Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.

Extensive training and specialized products

As the #1 choice in cleanup and restoration*, we stand on more than 50 years of experience and expertise to help your business become Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.  Beyond fire & water, SERVPRO professionals are trained and experienced in biohazard decontamination and chemical spills – always adhering to the cleaning and decontamination standards set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and local authorities. 

From formulating and creating our proprietary cleaning products, like SERVPROXIDE, at our headquarters in Gallatin, TN, to taking the utmost care while disinfecting, we will ensure you and your business are set up to inspire consumer confidence as the economy continues to reopen.

3 C’s – Consult, Clean, and Certify

When the stakes are this high, you want a partner who has developed an industry leading, proprietary training program, cleaning solutions, and remediation processes over decades. We’ve cleaned up some of the most challenging biohazards imaginable. Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned reflects our unique experiences and capabilities. The program is grounded with our unique 3 C’s: Consult, Clean, and Certify.

• Consult – Every business is different, which is why you’ll be assigned a Cleaning Protocol Consultant who understands your business and will create a cleaning program to meet your specific needs. This program will be developed based on your business type, size of space, amount of high frequency touch points, foot traffic and congestion points.
• Clean – Based on your specific business needs, your location will undergo a thorough, deep clean, using exclusive cleaning products, according to protocols set forth by the CDC. Our employees have years of experience, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform. Cleanup procedures generally include cleaning of porous and non-porous surfaces, disinfecting of non-porous surfaces, cleaning and disinfecting of equipment, tools, and/or supplies used for cleanup process, and disposal of hazardous materials.  In the event of a suspected or confirmed COVID-19 event, we will be there cleaning within 24 hours to ensure you get back to business as quickly as possible. 
• Certify - Once your business location has been Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you will gain access to proprietary signage, digital emblems, and other collateral that communicates that you’ve selected a higher standard of clean available to help protect your employees and customers. And because we add the day, month, and year to that proprietary stamp of clean, your guests will know that not only did you choose Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, but that your location is being cleaned regularly at this standard.

Call today for a Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation

We’re Here to Help – 24 hours a day, seven days a week – until life is back to normal in the communities we all call home.

Call SERVPRO of Greater Boulder today at  (303)494-2000 for your Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation.

* #1 Choice in cleanup & restoration based Commercial Attitude & Usage Tracking study. Polling 816 commercial business decision makers on first choice for future needs related to cleanup & restoration work. Study conducted by C&R Research: October 2019

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned means professionally trained SERVPRO franchises perform the requested cleaning, sanitizing and disinfection services according to proprietary SERVPRO protocols and recognized industry and CDC standards with EPA approved cleaning products to deliver a SERVPRO certified cleaning experience.  Each SERVPRO franchise is independently owned and operated.

Broken Window and Damage to Your Store in University of Colorado?

6/4/2020 (Permalink)

We clean and restore property damage in Boulder.

Property Damage

You never know when a projectile is going to break the window of your store and do some damage to the building. Property damage happens all the time and for many different reasons. We’ve seen tornadoes, hailstorms, flooding, car accidents, bike accidents, and damage caused by theft. The good news is that no matter what time of day, or what kind of damage you have experienced, SERVPRO^® of Greater Boulder has a team of highly skilled technicians ready to respond in University of Colorado.

No Job is Too Big

In the event of a large commercial loss, we are uniquely positioned to mobilize our Disaster Recovery Team that is comprised of an elite group of large-loss specialists that are prequalified and strategically located across the nation to respond to any size disaster. Our Commercial Large Loss program clients include:

• The Hospitality Industry
• Property Managers
• Universities
• Municipalities
• The Pentagon

Call Us Today

No matter what size or type of emergency property damage you face, SERVPRO^® of Greater Boulder wants to help.  We are on call 24 hours a day and can be onsite within four hours of your call. We’ll provide commercial or residential restoration services for your home or business in University of Colorado “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 303-494-2000.

SERVPRO^® of Greater Boulder is Independently Owned and Operated.

Flooded Kitchen Floor in Devil’s Thumb?

5/28/2020 (Permalink)

We clean and restore water damage in Boulder.

Water Damage Happens Anytime

It wasn’t a typical morning in Devil’s Thumb. I woke up, went downstairs to start the coffee and stepped into a small shallow lake of water in my kitchen. Evidently while we were asleep, my dishwasher decided to break down and flood my first floor. The water was left standing all night and it had time to go beneath the kitchen linoleum, into the subfloor and travel into my family room and absorb into my carpet and carpet pad and subfloor and even seeped behind my baseboards into the drywall. What a catastrophe! SERVPRO^® of Greater Boulder wants the residents of Devil’s Thumb to know that we have years of experience dealing with many water damage scenarios and are ready to respond to any size water damage emergency.

We Are Water Damage Restoration Specialists

From the moment you call us we can be on site within fours hours to immediately begin the water extraction and drying process. We can help with the insurance process and paperwork and will follow the repairs through to the successful restoration and return to pre-damage condition.

Call Us Today

When you have a water damage emergency, SERVPRO^® of Greater Boulder wants to help.  We are on call 24 hours a day every day. We’ll clean provide water damage cleanup and restoration to your home or business in Devil’s Thumb “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 303-494-2000.

SERVPRO^® of Greater Boulder is Independently Owned and Operated.

Storms Causing Water Leaks in Ara?

5/28/2020 (Permalink)

We provide water damage restoration services in Boulder.

Storms Bring Water Damage

Water intrusion caused by a window leaking during a rainstorm can happen with older windows, but many times it is not the window leaking that is the source of the water. It may be due to roof damage causing the water to seep in around the window frame. Water damage, if left unmitigated, can become a costly repair as the water can seep into drywall and the framing structures hidden behind the walls. SERVPRO^® of Greater Boulder wants the residents of Ara to know that we have years of experience dealing with water damage and we are Here to Help. ^®

Specialized Dehumidification and Drying Equipment

After the water has been extracted and removed from the damaged area, we will begin the drying and dehumidification process. We use specialized equipment and industrial-grade dehumidifiers to help prevent water damage such as swelling and warping of floors, walls and furniture. Using room measurements, temperature and relative humidity readings, we will determine the type of equipment to use and will track the drying process using specialized monitoring equipment.

Call Us Today

When you have a water damage emergency in your home or business, SERVPRO^® of Greater Boulder wants to help.  Our team is specialty trained to provide the highest level of  water damage cleanup and restoration. Call us today at 303-494-2000. We’ll clean and restore your home or business in Ara “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO^® of Greater Boulder is Independently Owned and Operated.

Flooding in Boulder?

5/28/2020 (Permalink)

Flooding is Common in Boulder

Did you know that the city of Boulder has the highest risk of flooding in the state of Colorado? According to the City of Boulder website, Boulder has the highest flash flood risk due to its geographic location at the base of the Rocky Mountain Foothills and Boulder Creek, and its fourteen tributaries and Boulder Slough. A flash flood can happen anytime with little or no warning.

SERVPRO^® of Greater Boulder offers the residents of University of Colorado some tips from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) on what to do during a flood:

• Disconnect electricity and gas
• Do NOT walk or drive through flood waters
• Get to higher ground
• Follow emergency response orders
• Free cattle and lead animals to a safer place

Call Us Today

No job is too big. SERVPRO^® of Greater Boulder is uniquely positioned to respond to any size storm scenario and we have years of experience dealing with storm damage of all kinds. Our Disaster Recovery Team specializes in large commercial losses and are strategically positioned across the U.S. to allow for rapid mobilization and response to any place in the nation. This program was designed to save our customers time and money. Call us today at 303-494-2000. We’ll clean and restore your storm damage in University of Colorado “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO^® of Greater Boulder is Independently Owned and Operated.

High Winds Cause Storm Damage to Homes in Boulder

5/28/2020 (Permalink)

We respond to storm damage emergencies within four hours in Greater Boulder.

Extreme Winds Happen in Boulder

Did you know that Boulder has some of the highest peak winds of any city in the U.S.? According the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the two main causes of high winds during the cold season are the air pressure differences between strong low and cold high pressure systems and the Chinook winds developing across the Front Range and other mountain ranges. Wind speeds have been known to exceed 100 miles per hour and the areas around Boulder and Westcliffe are prone to extreme wind episodes. SERVPRO^® of Greater Boulder wants the residents and business owners of Greater Boulder to know that we have years of experience dealing with storm damage and we are Here to Help. ^®

Building and Reconstruction Services

Not only will we take temporary protective measures to protect your property from further storm damage, we can also help with the rebuilding process when structural damage occurs. We will provide supervision for a full range of construction restoration services to bring back your building to preloss condition

Call Us Today

When your home or business in Greater Boulder is damaged by a storm, SERVPRO^® of Greater Boulder wants to help. We are on call 24 hours a day and can be site to within four hours to immediately begin the cleanup and restoration process. Call us today at 303-494-2000.

SERVPRO^® of Greater Boulder is Independently Owned and Operated.

SERVPRO of Greater Boulder is Here to Help® in Devil’s Thumb

4/29/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Greater Boulder is Here To Help when property damage strikes.

SERVPRO^® of Greater Boulder provides essential services to Devil’s Thumb, and we want to help other essential services keep their employees and customers safe.

We provide remediation of fire, storm, and water damage, as well as mitigation of biohazards such as mold, and viruses like COVID-19.

Call us at (303) 494-2000 or reach us online for a thorough cleaning and disinfection. SERVPRO of Greater Boulder has the training, equipment, and the hospital-grade products that meet standards set by the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention).

SERVPRO of Greater Boulder recommends these sites:

• Learn who is at higher-than-average risk for getting a severe form of COVID-19
• Cloth face masks help protect other people
• Any song can be used to time your hand washing routine
• Here’s why soap and water are better than hand sanitizer
• The rhino calf at the Denver Zoo isn’t going to name herself. Check out the rhino-cam to figure out what name she should have

Remember that we are Here to Help^®

SERVPRO of Greater Boulder is independently owned and operated.

Link:

https://www.SERVPROgreaterboulder.com/

Where There’s Water Damage in Boulder, There’s Probably Mold

4/21/2020 (Permalink)

We are on call 24 hours a day to respond to water damage emergencies in University of Colorado.

Water Damage Can Hide and Cause Mold to Grow Unseen

You never know what kind of damage you’ll find overhead until you notice signs of water damage and open up the ceiling. Not only can water damage repairs become costly if left untouched, they can also become breeding grounds for mold and microbial growths. SERVPRO^® of Greater Boulder wants the residents of University of Colorado to know that we have years of experience dealing with water damage and mold remediation and we are Here to Help. ^®

Six Step Process

From the moment you call us, we will ask a series of questions to determine the extent of the damage and will be on site within fours hours with a team of professionals and the specialty equipment required to address your damage. Here is the process we use for most water damage emergencies:

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

Call Us Today

When you have a water damage or mold emergency, SERVPRO^® of Greater Boulder wants to help.  Our team is specialty trained to provide the highest level of commercial water damage cleanup and restoration. Call us today at 303-494-2000. We’ll clean and restore your home or business in University of Colorado “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO^® of Greater Boulder is Independently Owned and Operated.

SERVPRO® of Greater Boulder is Here to Help® Businesses Get Back to Business

4/13/2020 (Permalink)

We’ll deep clean your business and get you ready to reopen your doors!

This Pandemic Won’t Last Forever

This global pandemic crisis caused by COVID-19 has taken away many of the social activities that we as Americans enjoy, but it will not last forever. When businesses reopen, people will be ready to socialize, dine, and enjoy all the activities that they used to. SERVPRO^® of Greater Boulder wants to help Boulder businesses get back to business. We have years of experience cleaning biological contaminants and viruses similar to COVID-19 and we use EPA-approved hospital-grade cleaning products.

Cleaning and Disinfecting Your Facility

We follow the national Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommendations and adhere to their strict protocols for cleaning and disinfecting both porous and nonporous surfaces. The CDC recommends the routine cleaning of all high-touch surfaces including:

• Tables
• Handles
• Doorknobs
• Light switches
• Countertops
• Desks
• Keyboards
• Bathroom fixtures
• Common areas

SERVPRO Technicians are Uniquely Prepared

Our highly trained professionals are required to undergo rigorous initial and ongoing specialty cleaning training and we are uniquely positioned to respond to any biological cleaning need. When you are ready to get back to business, SERVPRO^® of Greater Boulder wants to help.  Our team is specialty trained to provide the highest level of commercial cleaning and restoration services. Call us today at 303-494-2000. We’ll clean and restore your business in Boulder “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO^® of Greater Boulder is Independently Owned and Operated.

We Can Clean Your Home or Business!

4/9/2020 (Permalink)

A SERVPRO of Greater Boulder trained professional carefully cleans a sitting room.

The COVID-19 (Coronavirus) pandemic has reminded all of us how important it is to properly clean the surfaces and objects we handle.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), cleaning and disinfecting are separate processes. Cleaning removes dirt, oils and most surface germs. Disinfection kills (or deactivates) remaining germs.

SERVPRO® of Greater Boulder is qualified to clean and properly apply disinfectants according to the CDC’s protocols.

We have numerous years of experience in cleaning and disinfecting contaminants, including infectious bio hazards. We have specific training and the appropriate equipment to go beyond standard cleaning services.  More recently, our professionals received additional training certifications regarding COVID-19 decontamination.

Many SERVPRO cleaning products include products the CDC recommends for other coronaviruses (such as SARS).  The EPA has just added three more of our branded disinfectants to their approved product list!  Although there has not yet been product testing against COVID-19, we can assure our community in and around Boulder that we follow all of the CDC-recommended guidelines.

We clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces such as:

• Counters and tabletops
• Doorknobs
• Light switches
• Toilets & other bathroom fixtures (faucets, handrails, tubs & showers)
• Tablets, keyboards & other office (home or business) equipment

We also clean soft surfaces such as:

• Carpets & rugs
• Upholstered furniture
• Exercise mats

The CDC recommends cleaning and disinfecting the following areas:

• Kitchen & dining areas
• Bathrooms
• Schools, classrooms, conference rooms
• Retail spaces, including
  • Sales counters
  • Racks, shelves
  • Hand-rails & elevator cars
  • Flooring, regardless of material
  • Water fountains
  • Carpets, rugs
  • Fitness equipment
  • Playground equipment

Call SERVPRO of Greater Boulder for a Proactive Cleaning Today!

We care and are Ready To Respond!  SERVPRO of Greater Boulder, 303-494-2000.

SERVPRO of Greater Boulder is independently owned and operated.

We Respond to Commercial Property Damage Emergencies in Boulder Day or Night

3/24/2020 (Permalink)

No job is too large in Ara.

Damage to your business can occur at any time. Broken hot water heaters, faulty wiring or worn appliances, cracks in water or sewage pipes, or storms and other severe weather can disrupt business when you least expect it. SERVPRO^® of Greater Boulder wants Ara business owners to know that we are leaders in fire and water cleanup and restoration and are available day or night to respond and begin the process of returning your business to preloss condition in most cases. We offer a variety of commercial services to and have the training and experience to restore your property “Like it never even happened.” Here are the services we offer:

• Commercial Restoration
• Commercial Water Restoration
• Commercial Fire Restoration
• Commercial Mold Remediation
• Commercial Storm and Major Events
• Disaster Recovery Team
• Commercial Cleaning
• Building Services

When you need help getting your business back on track due to water or fire damage, our team is ready to provide cleanup and restoration services to your business or home. SERVPRO^® of Greater Boulder is Here to Help^®. Our team of highly trained professionals are on call 24 hours a day every day. Call us today at 303-494-2000. We’ll take care of your commercial damage in Ara “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO^® of Greater Boulder is Independently Owned and Operated.

Electrical Fire Prevention Safety Tips for Boulder

3/16/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Greater Boulder will clean and restore your fire damage in Ara “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO® of Greater Boulder wants Ara residents to know that by taking precautions, electrical fires may be prevented when using electricity in the home. The National Fire Protection Association encourages the use of electricity with safety in mind and offers these tips to reduce the potential for electrical damage and injury:

• Have all electrical work done by a qualified electrician
• When buying or remodeling a home, have it inspected by a qualified private inspector or in accordance with local requirements
• Use only one heat-producing appliance outlet at a time
• Do not use extension cords to plug in major appliances such as refrigerators, washing machines, stoves, air conditioners, microwave ovens, etc.
• Install arc-fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs) as they will shut off electricity when a dangerous condition occurs
• Use ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) to reduce the risk of shock. They shut off the electrical circuit when it becomes a shock hazard. Install them inside the home in bathrooms, kitchens, garages and basements
• Test AFCIs and GFCIs once a month according to the manufacturer’s recommendations
• Check electrical cords to make sure they are not running across doorways or under carpets.
• Use a light bulb with the right number of watts. There should be a sticker that indicates the right number of watts.

If you ever experience fire damage to your home or business SERVPRO® of Greater Boulder wants to help. Call us today at 303-494-2000. We’ll take care of your fire damage in Boulder “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Greater Boulder is independently owned and operated.

Good Reasons to Install Home Fire Sprinklers in Boulder

3/10/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Greater Boulder will clean and restore your fire damage in Boulder “Like it never even happened.”

Did you know that home fire sprinklers are more sensitive to heat than those installed in commercial buildings? SERVPRO® of Greater Boulder wants Boulder residents to know that according to the U.S. Fire Administration, there are many life-saving and financial benefits to installing home fire sprinklers including:

• Home sprinklers and smoke alarms increase your chance of surviving a fire by more than 82 percent
• Home fire sprinklers only spray when the temperature in the room rises quickly and the sprinkler above the fire is the only one that sprays
• They can prevent devastating home damage by putting out flames quickly and are less damaging than water damage caused by firefighting hose lines
• They are easy to install in a home under construction or being remodeled
• They can be connected to the home water supply and require less water than business and industrial systems
• They are low cost at about $1.35 per square foot
• Installing a sprinkler system in your home may lower insurance rates by 5 to 15 percent by meeting code requirements

We hope you never experience fire damage to your home or business but if you do,  SERVPRO® of Greater Boulder wants to help. Our team of highly trained professionals are on call 24 hours a day. Call us today at 303-494-2000. We’ll take care of your fire damage in Boulder and make it  “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Greater Boulder is independently owned and operated.

SERVPRO Restores Commercial Damage to Businesses in Boulder

3/2/2020 (Permalink)

We’ll clean and restore your business in the University of Colorado area “Like it never even happened.”

Did you know that SERVPRO® of Greater Boulder offers many commercial specialty cleaning services to businesses in the University of Colorado area? Restaurants, sports clubs, schools, public buildings, apartment common areas and retail stores can all benefit from our specialty cleaning services, giving you more time to focus on your customers, clients and students. When odor, grime, mold, or moisture challenges go beyond the routine duties of your janitorial staff, we can help. We can also help with our biohazard cleanup services when decontamination of a home or business is needed due to a trauma, a sewage backup, a chemical spill or for another reason. Specialty cleaning services we offer are:

• Air Ducts and HVAC
• Biohazard and Sewage
• Trauma and Crime Scene
• Carpet and Upholstery
• Drapes and Blinds
• Ceilings, Walls, and Hard Floors
• Odor Removal and Deodorization
• Vandalism

No matter what type of specialty cleaning service your home or business may need, SERVPRO of Greater Boulder wants to help. Our highly trained technicians are available 24 hours a day and have the specialized equipment necessary to safely clean and restore damage for University of Colorado area business owners and residents alike. Call us today at 303-494-2000 to find out about our cleanup and restoration services. We’ll take care of damage to your commercial business and make it “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Greater Boulder is independently owned and operated.

SERVPRO Can Help You Restore Your Home or Business in Devil’s Thumb

2/19/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Technicians will respond to your emergency in 24-hours in Boulder.

Did you know that Colorado was ranked as one of the top 5 states to experience major hail events in 2018? Coming in at number 3, Colorado experienced 332 hail events with hailstones of one inch in diameter or larger. You never know when a disaster may strike. Fires, floods, hailstorms and other catastrophes can occur at any time.  SERVPRO® of Greater Boulder wants residential property owners and commercial business owners of Devil’s Thumb to know that we are Here To Help. SERVPRO of Greater Boulder also can help manage the insurance paperwork and process. Here are some of the residential and commercial services we provide:

• Water damage cleanup and restoration
• Mold remediation and mitigation services
• Sewage cleanup and removal
• Biohazards cleanup and restoration
• Storm damage
• Building services
• Commercial water damage cleanup and restoration
• Fire damage cleanup and restoration
• Carpet and upholstery cleaning
• Odor removal
• Disaster Recovery Team

If you find yourself dealing with hailstone or other damage form a disaster, SERVPRO of Greater Boulder wants to help. Our dedicated and highly trained technicians are available 24-hours a day to respond and to safely clean and restore damage for Devil’s Thumb business owners and property owners alike. Call us today at 303-494-2000 to find out about our cleanup and restoration services. We’ll take care of your emergency and make it “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Greater Boulder is independently owned and operated.

Sewage Cleanup Services for Boulder

2/10/2020 (Permalink)

We provide cleanup and recovery services for many biohazard situations.

Sewage leaks and biohazards can occur at any time. SERVPRO® of Greater Boulder wants the commercial and residential property owners in Boulder to know that sewage spills in commercial buildings and residential properties should be considered an emergency; since the water may contain viruses, bacteria and other microbes that can cause serious illnesses. When a sewage backup occurs, SERVPRO of Greater Boulder is ready to provide cleanup services to remove the sewage, contaminants, moisture and clean, disinfect and deodorize the structure and contents. We also offer these biohazard cleanup services that we hope are not necessary but sadly, often are:

• Crime scene residues
• Suicide cleanup
• Homicide cleanup
• Blood cleanup
• Accident cleanup
• Hoarding scenes
• Animal waste/remains
• Chemical spills
• Tear gas cleanup

If you find yourself dealing with a sewage spill, SERVPRO of Greater Boulder wants to help. No matter what your emergency may be, we will always treat your property and the people involved with the greatest empathy and respect. We are available 24 hours a day and our highly trained technicians have the protective gear and specialized equipment necessary to safely clean and restore  your Boulder property. Call us today at 303-494-2000 to find out about our cleanup and restoration services. We’ll take care of your sewer and biohazard emergencies “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Greater Boulder is independently owned and operated.

Wildfire Prevention Tips for Boulder

1/30/2020 (Permalink)

Wildfires are a threat to Ara this year.

Did you know that Boulder County is incorporating wildfire mitigation guidelines into their building codes? Taking proactive measures now to mitigate wildfire damage this year is a good idea. SERVPRO® of Greater Boulder wants to help the people of Ara prevent wildfires from harming their commercial property or residence. Here are some of the tips that are offered by the Colorado State Forest Service:

• Maintain a 3-5 foot, non-combustible “vegetation free” perimeter around all structures
• Remove all dead vegetation and pine needles from roofs, rain gutters, and yard
• Relocate scrap and woodpiles to 30 feet away from the home, structures, and neighboring properties
• Get rid of the branches that overhang the roof and chimney of your home or business
• Reduce surface fuels under trees
• Trim tree branches and remove dead limbs based on zone 1 and zone 2 recommendations
• Remove vegetation from underneath your deck that could ignite
• Create separation between anything that could catch fire: patio furniture, trees, swing sets, etc.
• Screen all attic, roof, soffit and foundation vents with 1/8 in. metal screening
• Post signs at the end of the driveway with your last name and house number that are noncombustible, reflective and easily visible to emergency responders.

More tips wildfire mitigation tips can be found on the link below. Remember to create and practice fire safety and evacuation plans with all family members. SERVPRO of Greater Boulder wants to make sure that Ara is prepared!

SERVPRO of Greater Boulder is independently owned and operated. Call us at 303-494-2000.

Prevent Frozen Pipes in Devil's Thumb

11/20/2019 (Permalink)

Prevent Frozen Pipes in Devil's Thumb

Cold weather is great for winter fun in Devil's Thumb, but not so great for the pipes. SERVPRO of Greater Boulder will remediate water damage “Like it never even happened”, but life is better if you can prevent the damage in the first place. Every year, over a quarter of a million homes and businesses suffer water damage from frozen pipes that burst (Federal Emergency Management Association). SERVPRO of Greater Boulder is sharing these tips to prevent frozen pipes that may lead to water damage.

Keeping Pipes from Freezing in Devil's Thumb:

• Check for exposed pipes, especially in unheated areas

• Wrap uninsulated pipes with pipe insulation

• Add insulation to attics, basements, and crawl spaces to keep cold drafts from freezing the pipes

• Keep indoor temperatures at 55 degrees F, even when no one will be at home or in the office

• If you will have several days of temperatures at or below 20 degrees F, let cold water trickle through an open tap

• Remove outside hoses from their taps

• Open cabinet doors in bathrooms and kitchens to let warmer area circulate around the pipes

SERVPRO of Greater Boulder wishes you a winter free from water damage or storm damage.

SERVPRO of Greater Boulder is independently owned and operated.

Link: https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/winter-storm/frozen-pipes.html

Fire Damaged Contents

11/13/2019 (Permalink)

Fire damage spreads soot and smell throughout the home

When a fire from a cooking fire or an electrical fire causes damage in your home not only does soot and smoke damage the property itself but also the contents of your home. In addition to coming in and assessing the damage to your home and assessing what can be restored and what needs to be replaced concerning the walls, flooring, and fixtures. Our crews also asses the status of your clothing and textiles and if they are able to be restored and cleaned. 

Often times when we think about a fire we think of what is actually burned, not the soot and smoke that spreads throughout the home causing textiles and fabrics to hold on to smell and odor. If a home fire causes damage we can help you make it "Like it never even happened." 

Rainbow after the storm

11/11/2019 (Permalink)

We can help you find the rainbow after the storm.

When a storm rolls into town the damage it can leave is extensive. Your home or office property can be left with a hole in the roof letting in rain and snow. Our team at SERVPRO of Greater Boulder has the knowledge, experience, and training to help you see the rainbow after the storm. 

Our teams come out to your property, assess what is damaged, document everything along the process through photos and paperwork. It is crucial for the insurance process that everything is documented and that your insurance company is kept in the loop every step of the way. 

If your home or office suffers from property damage we are Here To Help you make it "Like it never even happened." Give us a call 24/7, 365 we are just a phone call away. 

Know what to do do and who to call before you need us.

11/6/2019 (Permalink)

TO be prepared for any size disaster, call SERVPRO of Greater Boulder.

When you are running a business, you have a thousand decisions to make every day. We want to help make your life easier by helping you have a plan in place for property damage before you need it. SERVPRO offers a FREE Emergency Ready Profile App that you can download in the iTunes store today to help you be ready for any type of disaster. 

It's important to have a plan in place for your business before an emergency happens and that everyone in your company and team knows what to do when disaster strikes. When water is pouring through the ceiling on to your computers or into your showroom you don't have time to call around for references or check reviews online before calling a mitigation company. We are ready 24/7, 365 to help you make it "Like it never even happened." 

Smoke alarms save lives.

11/4/2019 (Permalink)

When fire and smoke damage your home, call SERVPRO of Greater Boulder to help you make it "Like it never even happened."

Smoke alarms save lives and provide you and your family time to leave the home and get to safety or alert you to potential fires in the home like a cooking fire or an unattended candle. In the event of a home fire soot and smoke damage can cause damage throughout your home and require repairs and restoration. 

SERVPRO of Greater Boulder has the technicians, expertise, and experience to clean and restore your home to preloss condition. After a fire, our crew's inventory and pack out the contents in your home. Contents are then brought back to our secure, climate-controlled warehouse where items are recleaned and packed into new clean boxes. While contents are being cleaned, crews work to clean and restore your home. Once your home has been restored, all contents are packed back and your home is ready to be put back together as it was before the fire. 

Put help in your hand with our Free ERP App.

10/30/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO ERP app is Here To Help.

Your business needs to be able to serve your clients and customers. Its why you went into business and why you do what you do. So if your property suffers from property damage from a fire suppression system break or pipe rupture. Or even a fire in the building your business comes to a standstill and a complete stop. 

SERVPRO offers a FREE Emergency Ready Profile App to help you and your team prepare for a property disaster. When setting up the app and your profile for your building or buildings, it walks you through documenting important information like where the water shut off is, where the gas shutoff is if there is gas in the building. If a disaster occurs its important that everyone on your team knows what to do and who to call when disaster strikes. 

SERVPRO Services in Devil’s Thumb

10/17/2019 (Permalink)

When disaster strikes your home or business, SERVPRO of Greater Boulder is #Here to Help!

Why SERVPRO of Greater Boulder?

Have you ever had to wade through a pond in your living room? Or, maybe you’ve returned to a half-burned home?  We hope you never have to deal with this but if you do, it’s always good to be prepared and respond quickly. With SERVPRO® of Greater Boulder as a partner, you can be better equipped to handle problems in your Devil’s Thumb home!

Why SERVPRO?

• Franchise professionals have the training and experience to help make it “Like it never even happened”
• SERVPRO’s proven system helps to ensure a return to preloss condition
• SERVPRO is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
• SERVPRO is a leader in fire and water cleanup and restoration
• We work with most insurance companies

SERVPRO doesn’t only handle fire and water damage. Other services include:

• Storm damage cleanup
• Mold mitigation
• Restoration
• Document restoration
• Electronics restoration
• Dry cleaning
• Reconstruction
• Biohazard cleanup
• Duct cleaning
• General cleaning

With over 1700 Franchise locations across the U.S., SERVPRO is never far away.

If your Devil’s Thumb home experiences water or fire damage, you can count on SERVPRO of Greater Boulder to be there for you.

SERVPRO of Greater Boulder is independently owned and operated.

Staying Healthy Amidst Water Damage and Standing Water in Ara

10/17/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Greater Boulder wants you to be safe when dealing with standing water in Ara.

Standing water of any kind in Ara can be a powerful source of disease. Floods can be worse due to the amount of water involved. Even small puddles can pose a risk. If you find yourself dealing with any type of water damage, feel free to contact SERVPRO of Greater Boulder and we will be there to make your disaster “Like it never even happened.”

Different kinds of debris can be found in flood water such as dead animals, rotted plants, and sewage, to name a few. If you have water damage inside your home, watch for fragments in the home as well to include rotted food and electrical problems.

Viruses and bacteria can cause illnesses. To reduce your chances of catching something, SERVPRO® of Greater Boulder suggests:

• Washing dirty clothes and towels in hot water. Use bleach if possible
• Remember that you can shake hands with an infected person and get infected.
• Do not allow children to play in the flood water
• Wash children’s hands before meals
• Disinfect toys before letting children play with them
• Use bleach or other disinfectants on hard surfaces
• Keep your hands washed

Cuts and rashes can become infected. Protect yourself and others in Ara:

• Avoid flood waters if you have an open rash or a cut
• Clean cuts or rashes. Cover them with a waterproof bandage
• Clean cuts with soap and clean water
• If a cut becomes red, swollen, or is oozing, get medical attention

SERVPRO of Greater Boulder is independently owned and operated.

Links:

https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/emergency/extreme-weather/floods-standingwater.html

Water Damage, Fire Damage, or Mold Damage - We Restore your Home or Business in Ara

10/15/2019 (Permalink)

Don’t be caught off-guard. Prepare for wind damage ahead of time.

Together we get it done.

Did you know that winds can reach speeds of up to 60 mph in severe cases?  This kind of wind in your Ara home or business can cause several different kinds of damage, as well as leave areas of the structure vulnerable to rain and other water crisis such as broken pipes.  SERVPRO® of Greater Boulder can work together with you to lower chances for incurring injury and/or cost due to storm damage.

Your part.

Preparedness is a necessary tool in your efforts to protect your home in Ara.

It’s your house; so not only do you have a vested interest in lowering risks to your home and family; but that same preparedness creates a more stress-free environment.

Be prepared for the worst when times are the best. Don’t wait until the wind is moving at speeds of forty+ mph outside before you start making calls and buying batteries. Do these things early on when there are no clouds in the sky.

Our part.

SERVPRO of Greater Boulder promises to answer when you call. We promise that the person fielding your call will understand not only the proper responses to your cleanup and restoration questions; but they will understand your vulnerable and stressful position as the owner/insurance adjuster.  We will use that understanding to make you as comfortable with what’s happening as possible. We will send the correct people, and the proper equipment to meet whatever needs have been created by the unfortunate event(s).

SERVPRO of Greater Boulder is independently owned and operated.

How to Prepare Important Documents for a Water Emergency in Devil’s Thumb

10/10/2019 (Permalink)

Keep your important documents somewhere safe in Devil's Thumb.

Even though we are in a digital age these days, some people still keep paper documents filed neatly in their drawer or a file folder (or somewhere else). However, what happens if those important documents are destroyed due to a water emergency or a flood caused by a storm? It can be so hard to track down copies of those documents and this leads to unnecessary stress among other difficulties depending on what the documents are for.

SERVPRO® of Greater Boulder wants to share the following tips with the residents of Devil’s Thumb:

• Scan and back up images to a thumb drive and keep it in a safe, dry space
• Keep paper documents in a water-proof bag or safe
• Laminating documents is also an option but keep in mind that lamination does not last forever
• Some companies do offer waterproof paper that you can use in a printer

It is not too late to start moving important documents over to a digital copy or hard drive, or into a waterproof safe if that is what you prefer. No matter the method you choose, keeping the documents safe from water damage is the important part. If for some reason you do need to replace lost or damaged documents, the link below will prove to be very useful. Any residents located in Devil’s Thumb are more than welcome to call the trusted team members of SERVPRO of Greater Boulder to help come clean up water damage if needed!

SERVPRO of Greater Boulder is independently owned and operated.

Link:  https://www.fema.gov/disaster/4286/updates/replacing-lost-documents

Make sure your Emergency Kit is Stocked and Ready to Go near the University of Colorado

10/7/2019 (Permalink)

At the University of Colorado, you may even see a drone delivering an emergency kit!

SERVPRO® of Greater Boulder is no stranger to storms, water damage, etc. The trained professionals there know that the possibilities are endless when it comes to any type of natural disaster or weather emergency, which is why we want to remind everyone at the University of Colorado to have their emergency kits stocked and ready to go.

Here are some items that could be included in an emergency kit:

• Band-Aids
• Alcohol pads
• Scissors
• Tape
• Battery-powered radio and batteries
• Whistle if needed to signal for help

If pets are involved, tweak the emergency kit a bit to include pet food, a spare leash/collar, and other pet supplies that will be needed. The University of Colorado is full of tech-savvy people who could probably call for help if needed, but it is important to be prepared for when technology fails, especially when water is involved. If a residential area/dorm or commercial building is flooded in any way, make sure to stay out of the water because electricity from technology devices can travel through water. That is why SERVPRO of Greater Boulder urges you to have your kit ready if needed.

SERVPRO of Greater Boulder is independently owned and operated.

Link:  https://www.fema.gov/news-release/2006/09/17/your-family-needs-emergency-supply-kit

How to prepare an emergency kit for a severe storm in Devil’s Thumb

9/20/2019 (Permalink)

Get your emergency kit ready in Devil’s Thumb.

If a community is not prepared for a severe storm, the results can be devastating. SERVPRO® of Greater Boulder wants to share some of the following tips to keep in mind while putting together an emergency kit in the event of a severe storm approaching. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has stated emergency kits should include some of the following:

• First aid kit
• Any medicine currently being taken
• Extra change of clothes and shoes
• Pet supplies if you are taking care of an animal
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• Emergency food and water

Residents of Devil’s Thumb can add whatever else they may need. There should be an emergency kit in every residential building as well as all commercial buildings if possible. Aside from having an emergency kit ready, a plan should also be in place. If there is a designated storm area inside the office, occupants should head there with the emergency kits. Severe storms cannot be avoided, but with the right tools and resources they can be easier to deal with.  SERVPRO of Greater Boulder wants to make sure that Devil’s Thumb is prepared!

SERVPRO of Devil’s Thumb is independently owned and operated.

Link: https://www.fema.gov/news-release/2008/05/19/preparation-best-defense-against-severe-storms-and-tornadoes

In-Home Fire Safety for the Greater Boulder Area

9/18/2019 (Permalink)

Don’t let a candle ruin your Boulder home.

Fall is quickly approaching! That means all of the fall activities are about to begin in Boulder, if they haven’t already! One popular item associated with the fall season is the candle. If a house smells like fall, it feels like home. SERVPRO® of Greater Boulder knows that candle fires happen and even though candles are small, the damage of a residential fire by a candle can turn out to be larger than expected.

Here are some candle fire safety tips for the Boulder area:

• When lighting a candle in the home, keep the candle at least twelve inches away from anything that can burn
• Try to avoid keeping a lit candle in bedrooms, bathrooms or sleeping areas
• Do not leave a lit candle where a child or family pet can access or reach it

One more important candle safety tip will tie to one of the above tips about not leaving a lit candle in the bathroom. When cleaning a bathroom using aerosol chemicals, this becomes extremely dangerous if there is a lit candle nearby. Aerosols are highly flammable and this can cause an explosion of sorts – please practice safety first and share this tip with friends and family who may not be aware of it.

If a Boulder home catches fire for any reason, including a candle, please call the trained professionals at SERVPRO of Greater Boulder so we can help clean up the fire mess and damage.

SERVPRO of Greater Boulder is independently owned and operated.

Link: https://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/outreach/media/pictographs/candles.html

Arson Fires in Ara, Colorado

9/18/2019 (Permalink)

Fires can happen accidentally but it's worse when caused by arson.

Have you ever known someone that started a fire in their back yard to burn some trash that got out of hand?  This type of event was not intentional. The fire was not set to cause harm but just got out of control. However, a fire that is set to cause harm is referred to as arson.  Most of these types of fires occur outside. Deaths, injuries, and fire damage many times happen indoors.

SERVPRO® of Greater Boulder wants you to be aware of the causes of fire damage and fire injuries so that you can help prevent them.

Top Causes of Fires in Ara:

• Candles
• Kitchen fires are the leading cause of home fire injuries and home fire damage
• Heating equipment is the second most common cause of death in home fires
• Use all electrical equipment according to the directions
• December, January, and February are the months that have the most home heating fires
• Cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and other smoking materials are the biggest cause of fire deaths in the U.S.
• Children should never be left alone with matches, lighters, candles, or other dangerous materials. Children playing with fire cause hundreds of deaths and injuries every year

Please pay attention to fire safety in Ara. While SERVPRO of Greater Boulder can help to restore your home, prevention and family safety should always come first. Share this blog with a friend who might want to learn more about fire prevention.

SERVPRO of Greater Boulder is independently owned and operated.

Links:

https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/By-topic/Top-causes-of-fire

Call SERVPRO When Disaster Strikes in Greater Boulder

9/9/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Greater Boulder is open 24/7

When you are in the middle of a crisis, it can be difficult to make the right decision. If your Ara home is on fire, the first thing you should do is call 911. If a storm has dropped a power line in front of your office, you would call the power company. These choices are rational, normal choices but whom would you call after the fire is out? Who do you call after the storm ends and you notice the damage is worse than you thought?  Maybe you notice the power line actually fell because a tree branch took it down and damaged a part of your home. 

You call SERVPRO of Greater Boulder. We are centrally located in Boulder, and are efficient, experienced, and open 24/7. We have a trained team of IICRC certified professionals who can take care of water damage, mold damage, storm damage, fire and smoke damage, and even flood damage. That’s right, SERVPRO of Greater Boulder comes when you call, and we show up ready to work. If you need a restoration company, please consider us because we can make your problem or damaged area look “Like it never even happened.”

Ease your Burden when Disaster Happens near the University of Colorado

9/5/2019 (Permalink)

When disaster strikes, SERVPRO of Greater Boulder is there for you.

When disaster strikes…

Your home near the University of Colorado represents a lifetime of hard work and a place where family and roots are important.  Loved ones gather here and some of your most endearing and precious memories are made.

When a disaster strikes your home near the University of Colorado, whether it be fire, storm, mold, or other water damage/flooding, it will likely be one of the most traumatic experiences of your life. When these things happen and stress is high call us. Our professionalism and rapid response time, as well as our nonintrusive clean up and exit should do much to ease the burden you are bearing. SERVPRO of Greater Boulder wants to help you carry the load.

…we’ll be there to ease your burden.

Sharing a load to SERVPRO of Greater Boulder means our work makes your situation more bearable. Twenty-four hours a day/seven days a week we are on call with equipment that is up-to-date, and people who are professional and efficient. Our goal is to keep you moving forward with as little worry as possible near the University of Colorado.  Please contact us at 303-494-2000 and we will be there to help.