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The Return of Warmer Weather and Spring Storms | SERVPRO® of Alamo Heights and SERVPRO of Downtown San Antonio
3/14/2023 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Alamo Heights and Downtown San Antonio team is always here for you, if you experience any storm damage call us right away.
The arrival of spring is warmly (literally) welcomed by so many of us proud Texans. We love the return of warm, sunny days and can forget about the crazy winter that we just had. Even though the change of season can be exciting, it is important to remember that the spring season means the return of thunderstorms and tornadoes.
Our team is dedicated to helping homeowners and business owners protect their homes against storm and water damage, so check out our latest blog below for some tips about how to start preparing for the rain now.
Avoiding BlockagesAfter the winter we just had, it is crucial that you get up on your roof and clear out your gutters. The wind, rain and even that ice storm we went through could have contributed to a buildup of debris or even gutter damage. Make sure that your gutters are in good condition and free to encourage the flow of water down and away from your home.
It is also important to address any issues with the vents around your home. A blocked furnace or dryer vent can lead to fires and appliance malfunctions and even be a health hazard to your family. Check for lint buildup, leaf debris or anything that could inhibit the vent’s function and remove it promptly.
When the ice storm came through, our pipes and outdoor faucets were vulnerable to the effects of the freezing temperatures. If you haven’t yet, inspect them for cracks or slow drips. If you notice any issues with any of your pipes, it is crucial that you take the time to fix the issue right away to prevent a larger disaster from happening.
Don’t Forget Your RoofOne of the most important areas when it comes to protecting your home is your roof! As the rain falls down, your roof needs to be free of damage in order to keep you safe and dry. Check your roof and siding as soon as it is safe to do so and be thorough in your search for damage.
A missing or broken shingle due to a windstorm or visible structural damage from flying debris can introduce water into your home that can leak down your walls and flow virtually everywhere in your home.
Necessary PreparationsDon’t forget about the inside of your home! Make sure your sump pump is in good condition and give your basement a thorough search. Any crack lines along your foundation or concrete walls can be a source of a flooded basement, so seal up those cracks right away.
With the return of tornado and severe thunderstorm season, it is crucial for you to have your emergency kit and safe shelter location ready for the upcoming season. Make sure everyone in your home understands where they are and how to get to them, and update anything in your emergency kit that you either used in the winter or need to add due to a change in your family (pet food, medications, etc).
Remember that your SERVPRO of Alamo Heights and Downtown San Antonio team is always here for you, no matter the season. If you find home damage or experience it during a spring storm, give us a call right away. We will be there for you to help you fully recover in no time!
Got water damage? We are here to help 24⁄7 and can restore your home quickly.
Keeping Unwanted Water Out of Your Home | SERVPRO® of Alamo Heights SERVPRO of Downtown San Antonio
1/10/2023 (Permalink)
Have water damage in your home? Contact SERVPRO of Alamo Heights and SERVPRO of Downtown San Antonio for quick and professional restoration.
We are grateful to serve the community of Alamo Heights for another vibrant year! We hope your 2023 has already gotten off to a great start.
Our team wants you and your family to stay comfortable and dry all year long, so we are offering some great tips to reduce your risk of water issues and water damage in your home in our latest blog post.
Since the potential for water damage is always constant, it is crucial that you take preventive steps every day to reduce your risk as much as possible.
How Does Water Damage Start?Water issues could be immediately apparent in an appliance malfunction or flood, or can happen over a period of months with a single, slow drip. In any case, prevention is key! Familiarize yourself with the different ways water can sneak into your home.
Blocked gutters and damaged roofs are common causes of rainwater issues and flooding, while large appliances and other fixtures are typically the main culprits inside our walls.
Even the appliances that need water to work can be vulnerable if water infiltrates their electrical components. The sooner you can identify the issue, the better chance you have of preventing widespread damage and a costly repair bill.
How Can I Reduce My Risk for Water Damage?Don’t be afraid to investigate! Check your bathrooms and kitchen each time you are performing your routine cleaning. Get under the sinks to look for water stains and pull back appliances to check for mold growth.
Wipe down any windows that have condensation, and follow your nose if you notice a musty smell somewhere in your home.
Preventing damage is always worth any extra work that you need to do. Water is a great resource, but it should stay where it is welcome and out of our homes.
Here in the San Antonio area, we are especially vulnerable to flooding issues. If you haven’t yet, look into your flood insurance options, keep your gutters free of debris and address any foundation issues right away.
Another great way to reduce your risk of seasonal flooding is to grade your property! Professional companies can come out and move soil around your yard to help encourage water to flow away from your foundation.
Have water damage in your home? Contact us for fast, professional restoration back to preloss condition.
Help When There’s No Time to Waste | SERVPRO® of Alamo Heights and SERVPRO of Downtown San Antonio
1/3/2023 (Permalink)
If a fire issue pops up, remember the trusted leader in the recovery industry, SERVPRO of Alamo Heights and SERVPRO of Downtown San Antonio
When you were younger, you may have had to routinely wait for things. You waited in line, you waited on the mail, and you may even have waited on hold on the phone.
These days, things are different. Because we have everything at our fingertips 24⁄7, we expect things to happen right now! While sometimes waiting is part of the excitement, there are some things in life you should never have to wait for. Damage to your home or business is one of those things.
At SERVPRO, we know that damage done to your home or business can be life-altering, and that’s why we can assure you that someone is always available to take your call. Because when damage sits, everything goes downhill.
After a fire. If a fire were to engulf your home or business, it’s not only going to affect the structure of your home, but it will devour your items or at the very least cover them in soot. When this happens, the soot can embed itself in carpets or fabrics, and over time starts to corrode things.
That means that if the fire didn’t ruin your items, the soot will.
And as if fire and soot aren’t enough, fire damage also leaves you with a new home fragrance that you will not enjoy! That smell will embed in everything, causing you to get whiffs of it often.
After water damage. After water damage, a whole different problem can emerge. You have 48 hours at most before water damage can become mold damage.
Not only is mold nasty and stinky, but it will likely cause a serious threat to your respiratory health. And just like fire damage or soot, water damage can start to cause structural damage, meaning even more costly repairs to be needed.
That’s why we fully understand the need for instant gratification when it comes to the restoration of a home or business. Our priority is to not only help you get back to your day-to-day lives, but we want to help you minimize any disaster we can.
That’s why we are ready for your call, no matter the day or time. We are here for you, ready to get your home or business fixed up so that you can continue with your normal activities.
When you need help after a home or business disaster, fast service is a priority, and there’s nobody faster or more prepared than SERVPRO. Call us anytime to take advantage of our 24-hour emergency service.
Don’t Let Water Damage Surprise You | SERVPRO® of Alamo Heights and Downtown San Antonio
12/10/2022 (Permalink)
If you experience any water damage inside your home or business, reach out to SERVPRO of Alamo Heights and Downtown San Antonio
Water is an essential part of every household, which means that the threat of water damage is always constant in our homes.
It is crucial to catch any issues early before they become larger problems later. Catch a water leak using these tips and tricks below to save you valuable time and money.
Water Leaks in BathroomsWater is constantly flowing through the pipes and fixtures in our bathrooms! Our sinks, bathtubs, toilets and showers are some of the most used fixtures in our homes, so it is important to check them regularly for wear and tear.
If you spot a deteriorating seal or notice a rusting water supply line, now is the time to act to stop a water leak in its tracks.
Maintain Your AppliancesOne of the most common reasons for water damage in the home is faulty appliances. It is likely that you will experience a broken dishwasher or overflowing washing machine at some point in your life!
Stay on top of any maintenance and routine cleaning of your appliances to ensure that they are in top working order. On occasion, pull them away from the wall to check behind them for water spots, staining, or mold growth. Call us if you notice any of these signs of water damage!
Flooding and Other Weather HazardsWe can experience flood conditions at any point of the year. While we are grateful to normally escape harsh winters and large amounts of snow, flood water can do just as much damage!
Even though we usually avoid heavy snowstorms, we all remember what it was like to live in Texas in February 2021. Knowing that snow and cold temperatures like that are a possibility, it is important to always be prepared.
Take the time to prepare the outside of your home by clearing out gutters and downspouts and remove any debris from your roof. It is also a good idea to do a walkthrough of your home to catch any moisture issues around your windows and doors. Whatever this winter season has in store for us, you can be ready!
If you experience water damage inside your home or business, call us 24⁄7. We have the experience and equipment to get your property back in working order fast.
Are You Ready for Winter? | SERVPRO® of Alamo Heights SERVPRO of Downtown San Antonio/ Team Simonis
11/30/2022 (Permalink)
If you suspect any damage to your home from a recent storm, call SERVPRO of Alamo Heights and SERVPRO of Downtown San Antonio/ Team Simonis
After a long and hot summer season, the chill of winter can be welcome for so many people! While the colder temperatures are a relief, there is still the possibility for some unsavory weather during the fall and winter seasons here in south-central Texas.
Winter Weather for the United StatesIt sounds like we will be in luck this season! The prediction of mild temperatures and significant rain may allow us to avoid some of the colder weather that we have seen in previous years.
However, we all know that the weather can change in an instant here and we could be surprised by snow or ice at any time.
Winter Around Alamo Heights and Downtown San AntonioWhile we are most accustomed to mild temperatures, rain, and wind during the winter season, we know all too well that snow and major storms are always a possibility.
Do we need to remind you what happened in 2021? While this snowstorm was unprecedented and historic, it serves as a great example on why our homes need to be ready to keep us safe in any situation.
Winter Weather Home PrecautionsWinter looks very different across the country, and our typical threats here in Texas are mostly focused on rain, ice and sleet. We still do get winter storms though as well!
This is why your emergency kit should always be stocked and ready to use. Include medications, a weather radio, food and anything else that you would need to live comfortably during a power outage or storm.
It is also a good idea to take a walk around your home to make sure your windows and doors are waterproof and well-sealed. This can save you from water damage and eventual mold growth.
Outside your home, focus on your roof, clear any leaves or debris out of your gutters and downspouts, and trim any tree branches that are hanging over your home. Keeping your roof clear helps minimize your risk of water pooling and creating issues all season long.
Even if you do your best to prepare, the unexpected can still happen. That’s where we come in! Your SERVPRO of Alamo Heights and SERVPRO of Downtown San Antonio/ Team Simonis team is ready to jump into action for you the moment that you call.
If you experience damage in a winter storm, call us. We have the experience and equipment to get your home back to normal.
Enjoy the Warm Glow of Decorations, Not Fire! | ? SERVPRO of Alamo Heights and Downtown San Antonio
11/9/2022 (Permalink)
Should a fire issue pop-up during this holiday season, ? SERVPRO of Alamo Heights and Downtown San Antonio will be on call ready to assist.
The holidays are upon us, and that means glowing lights, fresh-baked goodies and memory-making with friends and family. But while the holiday season is a wonderful time of year, it is actually one of the peak times for house fires.
While you are busy planning your day to Homemade Christmas or discussing which evening you are going to check out the lights at the Riverwalk, it is important to take the time to be mindful about how you decorate and enjoy the holiday season.
Even just a few preventive measures can help protect your entire family from disaster this holiday season!
<h3seasonal-hazards">Common Seasonal Hazards
About 790 structural fires are attributed to decoration accidents every year in the United States. Experiencing a home fire just because of your beautiful decorations would be so unfortunate!
When you hang anything up, be careful to avoid any sources of heat like fireplaces or space heaters, even if they are artificial and not wood-burning. The heat can melt anything flammable and spark a fire.
If your family likes to have a real tree in your house, make sure you keep it well-watered and sweep around it daily to keep dried needles from piling up. You should also always unplug any lights or decorations before going to bed each night.
<h3your-fire-risk">Reduce Your Fire Risk
Be smart about where you choose to hang your decorations! While stockings are typically hung over the chimney with care, be cautious about creating any sort of fire hazard or hang them next to the fireplace instead.
Candles are also a major source of home fires! 20 homes each day are affected by a house fire due to candles, so it is important to be extra careful whenever you light one. You should never leave them unattended, and make sure to trim the wicks on each candle before the first light to reduce your risk of sparking.
If you like to decorate outside of your home, make sure all of your decorations are tagged for outdoor use! Avoid piercing any cords with a nail gun or another hanging method, and try not to hang anything directly over brush or wood piles.
Once you are done decorating, do a final check of your smoke detectors to make sure they are working and ready to alert you of any developing problem! Know your exit strategies, and always have us on speed dial if you fall victim to a house fire. SERVPRO of Alamo Heights and Downtown San Antonio is always ready to respond to your call for help.
Have smoke or fire damage in your house? Contact us today to get cleaned up fast.
We Are Alamo Heights’ No. 1 Restoration Team | ?SERVPRO of Alamo Heights and Downtown San Antonio
10/20/2022 (Permalink)
No job is too big or small. Call ? SERVPRO of Alamo Heights and Downtown San Antonio today to schedule your estimate.
One of the unique things about the United States is the different types of weather that vary across the nation. From humid and hot summers to ice cold winters, we have it all.
With all of this weather comes the potential for severe threats every season. In fact, the United States has at least 42 different kinds of weather alerts, and they are broken down into six different categories.
When you are in the middle of severe weather, trying to decipher any sort of alert can be confusing if you are not prepared. Thankfully, we really only need to fully understand the types of alerts that affect us here in Alamo Heights.
<h4creation">Alert Creation
Weather forecasting is a series of predictions that meteorologists make that attempt to forecast how different weather situations will play out. Even though they are simply predictions, a lot of research and model interpreting go into each one to make them as accurate as possible.
The National Weather Service is the large organization that is responsible for creating the forecasts all across the nation. They are broken down into six regional offices across the country to help keep the forecasts more localized. Our office is in the Southern Region and is actually located right in Texas in Fort Worth.
When the NWS creates their forecasts, staff use data from radar, seismic activity, solar patterns and other model predictions. From that forecast, then they send out any corresponding alerts. They attempt to be as accurate as possible to make sure the right people are informed of any incoming threats.
<h4it-a-watch-or-a-warning">Is It a Watch or a Warning?
Understanding the difference between a watch and a warning is of the utmost importance. They are two very simple concepts, but a warning carries a much larger risk than a watch. This language is actually universal across most weather risks.
If a watch is issued in our area, that simply means an incoming storm or weather event has the potential to turn into a more severe threat. Whether the storm is particularly strong or the current weather (heat, humidity, etc) is just right, this is the time to keep an eye on the sky.
If a watch turns into a warning, you should seek shelter immediately. When a warning is issued, there is a dangerous storm or situation present and everyone should be inside and out of the elements.
In Alamo Heights and Downtown San Antonio, we commonly see severe storms, tornadoes and flash flooding problems. We are located in “flash flood alley,” after all! It is important to understand each of the corresponding alerts for these events so you can properly prepare for them.
<h4home-and-property">Your Home and Property
Preparing your home in advance of a storm can help minimize damages. If you are aware of any watches before they turn into warnings, you have more time to get ready for any impending weather.
Removing or securing outdoor furniture and clearing your gutters reduces the risk of water issues and property damage. It is also a good idea to take inventory of your emergency kit and make sure it is placed in your safe shelter location.
When you need help with a restoration project, the first requirement that comes to mind is probably a company’s quality of work! When you use SERVPRO of Alamo Heights and Downtown San Antonio, we can promise you our highest quality work, every time.
In addition to our water, storm and fire damage restoration, we also offer deep-cleans of more troublesome issues like graffiti cleanup, along with mold remediation. Whatever you need help with, we are the team for you.
Do you want to know another bonus of using us as your restoration team? We are right in town in our beautiful neighborhood!
<h2being-close-by-matters">Why Being Close By Matters<h4we-have-a-quick-response-time">1. We Have a Quick Response Time
When you need help with a restoration project or disaster recovery, would you rather have a team that could be there in a few days or in a matter of hours?
We are just down the road, so we can mobilize our teams to respond to you almost immediately.
<h4we-experience-the-same-threats">2. We Experience the Same Threats
While our offices are located here, many of us live in town as well! When inclement weather is forecasted, we are tuned into the same news stations like WOAI watching Jeanette Calle give us updates, too.
The main difference is that when you make plans to hunker down, we start rounding up our teams to be ready to respond to any emergency.
We know what it is like to experience a tornado, heavy rain and flash flooding problems here in Alamo Heights and Downtown San Antonio. Our personal experiences make us more knowledgeable on how to handle any cleanup.
<h4we-know-alamo-heights">3. We Know Alamo Heights and Downtown San Antonio
If you are from the Alamo Heights and Downtown San Antonio area, you know how special it is to live here. If you call a different restoration company, chances are that they will be coming from a different part of the San Antonio area or even beyond and won’t know the area as well as we do!
Being from Alamo Heights and Downtown San Antonio, we can confidently tell you our favorite churro at Honcho’s Churros (It has to be one of their delicious Lassos). We also can recommend the best hidden places to explore at Olmos Basin if you need to get out and relax while we work. We are proud to live and work in this city.
We also fully understand the current local governmental regulations and ordinances, so you never have to worry about a misstep with permits or requirements.
<h2benefits-of-choosing-us">Additional Benefits of Choosing Us
We specialize in working with local technicians and organizations when we need to get a job done properly, but sometimes a large-scale disaster requires external help. That’s the benefit of SERVPRO!
Our team has a local touch with a national reach. If we need help, one of our other partner locations can send personnel or equipment our way.
When disaster strikes your home or your business, we’re the team you can trust—located right here, close to home. Get in touch today to get started!
We Are Alamo Heights’ No. 1 Restoration Team | SERVPRO® of Alamo Heights ?and Downtown San Antonio
10/20/2022 (Permalink)
No job is too big or small. Call SERVPRO of Alamo Heights ?and Downtown San Antonio today to schedule your estimate.
One of the unique things about the United States is the different types of weather that vary across the nation. From humid and hot summers to ice cold winters, we have it all.
With all of this weather comes the potential for severe threats every season. In fact, the United States has at least 42 different kinds of weather alerts, and they are broken down into six different categories.
When you are in the middle of severe weather, trying to decipher any sort of alert can be confusing if you are not prepared. Thankfully, we really only need to fully understand the types of alerts that affect us here in Alamo Heights.
<h4creation">Alert Creation
Weather forecasting is a series of predictions that meteorologists make that attempt to forecast how different weather situations will play out. Even though they are simply predictions, a lot of research and model interpreting go into each one to make them as accurate as possible.
The National Weather Service is the large organization that is responsible for creating the forecasts all across the nation. They are broken down into six regional offices across the country to help keep the forecasts more localized. Our office is in the Southern Region and is actually located right in Texas in Fort Worth.
When the NWS creates their forecasts, staff use data from radar, seismic activity, solar patterns and other model predictions. From that forecast, then they send out any corresponding alerts. They attempt to be as accurate as possible to make sure the right people are informed of any incoming threats.
<h4it-a-watch-or-a-warning">Is It a Watch or a Warning?
Understanding the difference between a watch and a warning is of the utmost importance. They are two very simple concepts, but a warning carries a much larger risk than a watch. This language is actually universal across most weather risks.
If a watch is issued in our area, that simply means an incoming storm or weather event has the potential to turn into a more severe threat. Whether the storm is particularly strong or the current weather (heat, humidity, etc) is just right, this is the time to keep an eye on the sky.
If a watch turns into a warning, you should seek shelter immediately. When a warning is issued, there is a dangerous storm or situation present and everyone should be inside and out of the elements.
In Alamo Heights, we commonly see severe storms, tornadoes and flash flooding problems. We are located in “flash flood alley,” after all! It is important to understand each of the corresponding alerts for these events so you can properly prepare for them.
<h4home-and-property">Your Home and Property
Preparing your home in advance of a storm can help minimize damages. If you are aware of any watches before they turn into warnings, you have more time to get ready for any impending weather.
Removing or securing outdoor furniture and clearing your gutters reduces the risk of water issues and property damage. It is also a good idea to take inventory of your emergency kit and make sure it is placed in your safe shelter location.
When you need help with a restoration project, the first requirement that comes to mind is probably a company’s quality of work! When you use SERVPRO of Alamo Heights and Downtown San Antonio, we can promise you our highest quality work, every time.
In addition to our water, storm and fire damage restoration, we also offer deep-cleans of more troublesome issues like graffiti cleanup, along with mold remediation. Whatever you need help with, we are the team for you.
Do you want to know another bonus of using us as your restoration team? We are right in town in our beautiful neighborhood!
<h2being-close-by-matters">Why Being Close By Matters<h4we-have-a-quick-response-time">1. We Have a Quick Response Time
When you need help with a restoration project or disaster recovery, would you rather have a team that could be there in a few days or in a matter of hours?
We are just down the road, so we can mobilize our teams to respond to you almost immediately.
<h4we-experience-the-same-threats">2. We Experience the Same Threats
While our offices are located here, many of us live in town as well! When inclement weather is forecasted, we are tuned into the same news stations like WOAI watching Jeanette Calle give us updates, too.
The main difference is that when you make plans to hunker down, we start rounding up our teams to be ready to respond to any emergency.
We know what it is like to experience a tornado, heavy rain and flash flooding problems here in Alamo Heights. Our personal experiences make us more knowledgeable on how to handle any cleanup.
<h4we-know-alamo-heights">3. We Know Alamo Heights
If you are from the Alamo Heights area, you know how special it is to live here. If you call a different restoration company, chances are that they will be coming from a different part of the San Antonio area or even beyond and won’t know the area as well as we do!
Being from Alamo Heights, we can confidently tell you our favorite churro at Honcho’s Churros (It has to be one of their delicious Lassos). We also can recommend the best hidden places to explore at Olmos Basin if you need to get out and relax while we work. We are proud to live and work in this city.
We also fully understand the current local governmental regulations and ordinances, so you never have to worry about a misstep with permits or requirements.
<h2benefits-of-choosing-us">Additional Benefits of Choosing Us
We specialize in working with local technicians and organizations when we need to get a job done properly, but sometimes a large-scale disaster requires external help. That’s the benefit of SERVPRO!
Our team has a local touch with a national reach. If we need help, one of our other partner locations can send personnel or equipment our way.
When disaster strikes your home or your business, we’re the team you can trust—located right here, close to home. Get in touch today to get started!
Don’t Let Water Damage Stop Your Business | SERVPRO® of Alamo Heights and Downtown San Antonio
10/20/2022 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Alamo Heights & Downtown San Antonio is your commercial restoration company. We are here to help clean up & get you back in business!
If you suffer water damage to your building or commercial property, the impact and fallout can be catastrophic.
Water troubles can come from a variety of sources! Burst pipes or a leaky roof can ruin your inventory or warp your floors, or the damage could come from a faulty sewer or sprinkler system. There are many ways that water can affect your livelihood.
We are also at risk of water damage that comes from natural sources! If the San Antonio River overflows, we could experience a flash flooding situation or standing water in our basements. Regardless of how the water damage occurred, it is never a fun experience to live through and recover from.
<h2your-building">Understand Your Building
Do you know where your water shutoff valves are around your building and property? This ensures that you can stop a problem as soon as you discover the issue.
This knowledge should be shared with anyone who will be responsible for your business while you are not there, including managers or other leadership staff.
<h2kinds-of-water">Different Kinds of Water
Water serves many purposes during daily life, so it is important to know where the water came from to determine if it is dangerous to be around or touch without the proper safety equipment.
White water: This type of water is the kind that is typically within your plumbing and isn’t harmful to be handled in small amounts.
Gray water: Gray water resides in your sink drains and toilet tanks. It is considered contaminated but also not dangerous in small amounts.
Black water: If you have a black water problem, it means that you are suffering from a sewage backup or storm flooding issue. This water is toxic and should only be cleaned up by professionals.
<h2the-problem-right-away">Address the Problem Right Away
The first thing you need to do is shut down the water source right away. Open the windows and try to get air circulating immediately to start the drying process. Communicate with your team about the situation and close off the area until the water has been cleaned up.
Don’t forget to take pictures of any visible damage! This is important for the insurance claim process and will be useful for when you need to rebuild or repair.
<h2is-key">Patience Is Key
Even if the water dries up relatively quickly, your building could still be compromised. Your wall studs could be soaked, mold could have started to grow or your floors could be warped. All of these situations indicate hidden water damage.
If your business suffers water damage, call SERVPRO of Alamo Heights and Downtown San Antonio to ensure a quick response! Our team members are thoroughly trained in the proper way to clean up and address water issues, and we will dry out your building to get you back into action right away.
When disaster strikes your commercial property, we’ll be there to help clean up and get you back in business quickly. Reach out 24⁄7 to get started!
When Lightning Strikes Your Home | SERVPRO® of Alamo Heights and Downtown San Antonio
9/20/2022 (Permalink)
If you are dealing with smoke or fire damage from a recent fire, call SERVPRO of Alamo Heights to hear about a restoration solution for your issue.
With proper preparation and responsibility, most home fires are preventable. But when the fire risk originates outside in the form of a wildfire or a lightning strike, it can be much harder to predict and prevent.
Lightning damage to homes is actually relatively common. In 2020 alone, 70,000 homeowners reported damage to their homes due to lightning. While your risk of getting personally struck by lightning is still rare, your home might not fare as well.
<h3does-lightning-come-from">Where Does Lightning Come From?
Lightning is the reaction caused by a strong electrical current that travels from the clouds down to the earth. While the majority of lightning occurs during strong thunderstorms, did you know that lightning can also occur during extremely hot forest fires and even heavy snow storms or blizzards?
<h3happens-when-lightning-hits-your-home">What Happens When Lightning Hits Your Home
If you are unlucky enough to have your home struck by lightning, it may cause a spark large enough to start a fire. Even though you will most likely know that something happened due to the incredibly loud sound associated with lightning strikes, you may not immediately see flames if the fire starts in your attic or within your walls.
One of the most effective ways to help deflect the power of a lightning strike is to install a lightning rod. They work by redirecting the incredible electrical power a lightning strike carries, reducing the impact of the strike on your home.
Also try to unplug as many electronics as you are able to before a storm to prevent a large electrical surge from ruining your TV, computers or gaming systems.
<h3and-wildfires">Lightning and Wildfires
Even if you are able to avoid a direct hit on your home, a nearby fire from a lightning strike can still be a risk if it is not contained quickly. If our area is particularly dry or the surrounding vegetation is brittle, a fire can get out of control quickly.
Lightning fires burn incredibly hot and fast, so they can become a large fire if they cannot be contained right away.
Do your best to keep your yard as tidy as possible to give a fire less to consume as it burns. Clear any dead brush and grass and consider surrounding your home with landscaping to give your home a buffer from an incoming blaze.
If a fire starts in or near your home, your first call should be to 911 and then exit your home as soon as possible. Once you are cleared to re-enter your home, then you should call us to come out to start your restoration process.
Our team at SERVPRO of Alamo Heights and Downtown San Antonio knows how to best tackle your project, and we are passionate about helping the people in our community.
Have you experienced smoke or fire damage in your home? Call us today to get the restoration finished fast.
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