Storm Preparedness: Your Guide to Staying Safe Before, During, and After the Storm

9/23/2024 (Permalink)

Storm damage can leave your home in ruins, but SERVPRO® is here to help with expert storm cleanup and restoration services.

When it comes to storm preparedness, it’s all about planning ahead. Storms can strike quickly, leaving behind a trail of damage if you’re not ready. While you can’t control the weather, you can control how prepared you are. So, let’s dive into some practical steps to help keep you, your family, and your home safe when storms roll through.

Before the Storm: Preparation is Key

Start by staying informed. Keep an eye on weather updates from reliable sources and make sure your emergency kit is stocked with essentials like water, non-perishable food, flashlights, and first aid supplies. If you have time, secure outdoor furniture and any loose items that could become projectiles in high winds. Also, double-check that your home’s gutters and drainage systems are clear to prevent flooding.

During the Storm: Safety First

When the storm hits, stay indoors and avoid windows and doors. If you live in an area prone to flooding, move to higher ground and avoid walking or driving through floodwaters—it only takes six inches of fast-moving water to knock you down. Keep a battery-powered radio handy for real-time updates, and if the power goes out, don’t try to use generators indoors due to the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.

After the Storm: The Road to Recovery

Once the storm has passed, the real work begins. Safety should be your first priority—avoid any downed power lines, and don’t enter any damaged buildings until they’ve been inspected by professionals. Flooding is a common issue after storms, and standing water can cause significant damage if left untreated. This is where calling in the pros can make all the difference. SERVPRO® has the expertise and equipment to assess storm damage, begin the drying process, and restore your property to its pre-storm condition. By acting quickly, you can minimize long-term damage and get back to normal faster.

Storms are unpredictable, but your response doesn’t have to be. With a little planning and the right help, you can weather the storm and come out stronger on the other side. Stay safe, and when in doubt, call SERVPRO®.

Michigan 2023: fast flooding requires fast action.

9/25/2023 (Permalink)

the recent flash flooding that occurred in Michigan left a lot of local resident in peril. In news reports they say some businesses were left as "Islands," and homes were virtually underwater.  With all of the local company's overloaded with calls, we send our team of water mitigation specialists to help. After 3 weeks of working day and night our team helped many people get their homes cleaned up and ready for reconstruction. Some of the work done, included sewage backups in their basements, main floor flooding, or water coming in from the outside. 

After leaving their families, driving across the country (South Carolina to Michigan) and then immediately getting to work to exact and dry, Our team has returned safely home. 

Tips For Protecting Your Family During A Storm In Upstate, South Carolina

8/31/2021 (Permalink)

Tips For Protecting Your Family During A Storm In Upstate, South Carolina 

In recent years tornadoes have become a reality for residents of Upstate, South Carolina. These super-cell storms usually pop up with little to no warning, and preparing in advance is the key to keeping you and your family safe. Tornadoes are powerful and unpredictable, but by beginning to prepare now, you can better your odds of coming out of the storm unharmed.

Things You Need To Do Before The Storm

Sign Up Now for Local Emergency Agencies Alerts

Our local emergency management agencies have a way for you to sign up to be alerted as soon as an emergency arises. These alerts include not just weather alerts but things like boil water notices and more.

The time to sign up for these alerts is before any weather emergency happens.

Know The Severe Weather Seasons and Language Used

Tornadoes

While pop-up tornadoes can happen at any time in South Carolina, spring and summer are when they most often occur.

Understanding Tornado Terms

Tornado Watch

During a tornado watch, you need to keep an eye on the sky. 

Meaning the conditions exist for rotation to form in the blink of an eye.

Tornado Warning

There has been a tornado spotted on the ground or radar. You need to seek shelter immediately and stay there until the storm subsides. 

Locate and Secure Possible Projectiles Before The Storm

Before you hear the weather siren going off, take the time to figure out what items in your yard could pose a risk. If you cannot secure an item to the ground, it should be brought into your garage, shed, mudroom, or crawl space. 

• Trampolines: If possible, youshould break down and store a trampoline or flip it over to be flush with the ground and anchor it. Doing so will prevent damage and keep them from becoming airborne.
• Patio Shade Shelters/Screen Tents: Secure the frame to the ground and remove all fabric components. 
• Swing Sets / Playground Structures: Remove swings, see-saws, and any other removable features.

Things You Can Do During The Storm To Protect You and Your Family

Seek Shelter During The Storm

• Basements: If you have a basement in your home, this is the preferred place to seek shelter. You should shelter at the below-ground end if it is a walk-out style.
• Lower-level, Interior Room: This is the second-best place to shelter if you do not have a basement. Preferably a room without a window.
• Upper-Level Rooms: will NOT protect you during a tornado. Do not shelter in upper-level rooms. Go to the lowest level of your home and shelter in your basement or an interior room without windows. 

Stay Indoors During A Storm

I know it is tempting to look out the window or door during a storm, but you need to avoid rooms with windows or exterior doors. The safest place for you to shelter during a tornado is in a basement or a lower-level interior room with no windows. You and your family should stay dressed in clothes and shoes appropriate for the outdoor weather if you have to flee your home or shelter in a hurry.

What Not To Do After A Tornado

Do not let your curiosity get the better of you after a tornado. Even after the storm has passed, danger is still present. Downed power lines, storm surges, and washed-out roads can create rescue situations that have to pull emergency response and first responder teams away from other storm-related issues. If the damage is severe, it will still be there several days after the storm when conditions are safer for you to travel.

If you have storm damage to your home, call SERVPRO of Pickens County(864) 855-3993. We are available 24/7, 365 days a year. No matter the severity of the damage, we will make it "Like it never even happened." 

What Is Your Severe Weather Safety Plan?

7/28/2021 (Permalink)

If a severe weather event or storm damaged your home, SERVPRO of Pickens County is here for all your restoration needs.

What Is Your Severe Weather Safety Plan? 

If you live in Upstate South Carolina, you will eventually experience some form of severe weather. Severe weather is a terrifying thing to face. Not only can it cause significant damage to your home, but storms are unpredictable, and conditions can turn hazardous in an instant. The most important thing you can do before any severe weather event or storm is to make preparations so that you and your family will be safe. Have a plan in place in case intense weather moves quickly into your area. Being prepared will alleviate panic because you will know what to do, where to go, and how exactly to keep yourself and your family safe. 

By knowing where to go, where your supplies are, and that you have made sure you can stay in your shelter, you can have much more peace of mind surrounding your family’s safety.

Elements to Consider for a Severe Weather Preparedness Plan

Where Will You Seek Shelter?

You should always have a designated shelter spot in your home where everyone can head if the weather turns severe in an instant. Ideally, this would be a basement, but you can also choose an area of your home that does not have windows and few exterior walls if a basement is not available. An interior closet or a bathroom with no windows will be a great place to shelter until the storm subsides. 

Do We Have Food and Water?

Once you seek shelter, it is wise to make sure you do not have to leave until the weather event has passed. It is a good idea to keep nonperishable foods and plenty of water in your shelter spot so you can stay put for the duration of the storm. You should store your food and water in a waterproof and tightly sealed container. 

What Will Your Light and Power Source Be?

Power outages are common during severe weather, so it is a good idea to keep flashlights, led candles, and lanterns in your shelter area in case your home’s electricity goes out. Be sure to pack extra batteries, too, as they can lose their power with time. If possible, invest in a generator as well. Your area may be without power for several days, or you may not be able to safely leave your home for a few days after a storm. A generator can prevent food spoilage and allow you to carry on after the storm, should you not be able to leave your house for several days. A 5,000 to 7,500 watts generator gives enough power to run most household appliances. 

If a severe weather event or storm damaged your home, SERVPRO of Pickens County is here for all your restoration needs. You can contact us as soon as you discover the damage for the quickest response possible, and with our 24/7 emergency line, you will never have to wait to get in touch. Call (864) 855-3993. For more information on SERVPRO of Pickens County, please click here. 

11 Improvements You Can Make To The Outside Of Your Home To Prevent a Flood

7/13/2021 (Permalink)

Flooding is the most common and costly natural disaster in the United States and can happen anywhere at any time.

11 Improvements You Can Make To The Outside Of Your Home To Prevent a Flood

Owning a home is one of the most significant investments you can make in your life. Your home is your sanctuary. You work hard to provide a home and a future for yourself and your loved ones. Why risk damaging or losing your home when bad weather strikes? 

Flooding is the most common and costly natural disaster in the United States and can happen anywhere at any time. Just one inch of water can cause significant damage to your home and require expensive repairs. While you can't prevent a natural disaster, you can prepare your home in advance to minimize the damage. Below are a few tips you can use to prepare your home for bad weather. 

 First, you need to determine the Base Flood Elevation (BFE) for your home. The BFE is the computed elevation to which the floodwaters are anticipated to rise. You need to know your BFE because it is used for flood plan management regulations in your community. Your local flood plan manager can help you find your BFE. 

1. Improve your yard's grading. Water needs to drain away from your foundation or basement walls. 
2. Add water-resistant exterior sheathing on walls and seal them to prevent shallow flooding from damaging your home. 
3. If possible, repair sidewalks, patios, decks, and driveways that have shifted over the years. These repairs prevent water from pooling too close to your home. 
4. When landscaping your yard and gardens, pick plants and vegetation that will minimize soil erosion. 
5. Secure your yard items. Unsecure yard items can become hazardous during a flood or storm. They can be swept away or damaged by floodwaters, or they can also be swept into your home and cause more damage. Secure your yard items by anchoring them, attaching them to sturdier structures, or storing them indoors until the bad weather has subsided. 
6. Consider getting window well covers so that water and does not accumulate in your window wells.
7. Make sure your downspouts extend three to six feet and drain away from your home.  
8. Use a rain barrel to catch rain runoff.
9. Regularly clean and maintain your gutters and eavestroughs. Remove any leaves, twigs, and other blockages in your gutters or eavestroughs, so rainwater does not pool in your gutters or overflow onto your roof.  
10. Keep storm drains near your home clear of leaves, twigs, and other debris. 
11. Repair or replace your roof if shingles are deteriorating or missing. 

Remember, some of these tips may work better together than others. Not all of these options work together; you should always consult with a professional such as your insurance agent, an architect, an engineer, a contractor, or other experts in construction before making modifications to your home. 

If your home floods-don't panic! Call SERVPRO Of Pickens County. Our highly trained crews and state-of-the-art technology will make it "Like it never even happened." We will restore your home to preloss condition in no time. Give us a call at (864) 855 - 3993. We are available 24/7, 365 days a year. 

Lightning Safety Tips For Upstate South Carolina

6/28/2021 (Permalink)

You should always avoid being outside during a lightning storm. Check the weather first and decide if you need to change your plans for the day.

Lightning Safety Tips For Upstate South Carolina.  

It's officially summertime! For upstate South Carolinians, that means more time outdoors. Hiking, camping, boating, fishing, and swimming are just a few summer activities that residents enjoy during the warmer months. Unfortunately, warmer weather means pop-up thunderstorms. The potential for a lightning strike is something that you should always take seriously. 

You should always avoid being outside during a lightning storm. Check the weather first and decide if you need to change your plans for the day. Head back inside early if you see dark clouds forming and hear thunder in the distance. If you do find yourself in a storm, reducing and managing the risk of getting struck by lightning is possible through sensible lightning safety procedures. Below are a few tips you can use if you find yourself suddenly caught in a lightning storm. 

Mountains 

Tall mountain peaks, ridges, and above treeline terrain are high-risk areas for attracting a return current or a lightning strike. In the summer months especially, in the Upstate of South Carolina, pop-up afternoon thunderstorms create the perfect recipe for dangerous lightning conditions. Typically, these storms arrive in the afternoon, but it is not uncommon for them to begin earlier. If you're out hiking and hear thunder above the treeline, turn around immediately and get back to the shelter of the treeline. Never hide in the entrance of a cave. 

If you see sparks on metal objects or your hair begins to stand up, this is called a corona- which means that your body is signaling towards an imminent strike. If this happens, drop everything metal and assume the lightning position as quickly as possible. 

If you are camping, remember you should never pitch tents above the treeline. If you cannot avoid an exposed campsite, then you must get out of the tent and move at least 50 meters away in the event of a storm. Wait in the lightning position until the storm has passed. 

Rolling Hills and Gentle Terrain 

It is rare that lightning strikes in this terrain. Run for shelter if you hear thunder, but if you see the storm striking nearby, get in the lightning position. 

Fields 

If you are out in an open field during a lightning storm, move more than 50 meters away from fences and irrigation pipes, these are conductors and attract lightning. Do not seek shelter under trees or by telephone poles if they are too close to a fence or irrigation pipes. 

Forests

It is extremely dangerous to take shelter under a lone tall tree during a lightning storm. However, uniform canopy forests are much less at risk of attracting lightning. Avoid trunks of large trees, but it is better to be under that type of shelter instead of out in the open. 

Water 

Swimming in a pool or boating on flat water such as lakes, wide rivers, or the ocean leaves one exposed to lightning strikes. Plan aquatic activities around the weather, and if you hear thunder in the distance or see dark clouds, get to shore as quickly as possible. 

Do You Know Where To Go When A Tornado Is Coming?

2/22/2021 (Permalink)

Do You Know Where To Go When A Tornado Is Coming?

Last April, a tornado ripped through the Upstate and severely damaged parts of Oconee and Greenville County. Many residents that night sought safe shelter and remained physically unharmed. As we approach the first anniversary, we wanted to remind everyone of a few safety tips. 

• Take cover in an interior room in your home. A cellar, bathroom, or closet are ideal places to wait out a tornado. A room with no windows is the best place to be. If you can't decide where to go, choose the bathroom. 
• If you are stuck outdoors, find a ditch far away from items that can fly through the air. Lay as flat as you can. 
• Do not stay in a car or try to drive away from a tornado. Cars can be lifted by high winds or crushed by debris. 
• If you evacuate your home, do not return until local officials have said it is safe to do so. 

Act Quickly After Storm Damage

2/16/2021 (Permalink)

Act Quickly After Storm Damage!

Strom damage can occur at any time with little to no warning. In Pickens County, heavy rains can cause flooding, and powerful winds can damage your property. Having a strategy in place to deal with the damage will help you get back to normal quicker. 

Photograph the Damage: If it is safe to move around your property, carefully take pictures of the damage, this allows you to have a record for the insurance company. 

Contact Your Insurance Company: As soon as possible, contact your insurance company. If they give you a claim number, keep it handy. 

Call SERVPRO of Pickens County: If your upstate home becomes damaged during a storm, call SERVPRO of Pickens County (864) 855-3993. We will work with your insurance company to make it "Like it never even happened."

Are You Ready For Winter Weather?

12/15/2020 (Permalink)

Although South Carolina doesn't often experience frigid temperatures, winter storms can damage property, create safety risks, close roads, and highways, and cause mass power outages. Before severe weather, you should do your best to prepare. Below are a few things you can do to make sure you are ready for whatever winter throws at us. 

• Add rock salt and shovels to your disaster supply kit. 
• Have sufficient heating fuel, in case you become stuck in your home. 
• Learn how to locate and shut off water valves in case a pipe bursts. 
• Have your vehicle serviced to ensure it is prepared for colder weather. 
• Create a winter emergency kit that includes a shovel, windshield scraper, small broom, flashlight, battery-powered radio, extra batteries, water, snack food, extra warm clothes, first aid kit, pocket knife, extra medication, blankets, rope, and tow chain, road salt, booster cables, emergency flares, and a fluorescent distress rag. 

Hurricane Season and The Upstate

9/17/2020 (Permalink)

Are you prepared for Hurricane and Tropical Storm Season?

Hurricane Season and The Upstate

We have reached the height of hurricane season. Although in the Upstate, we won't experience mass amounts of destruction like the coast. However, we must be prepared for whatever the weather throws our way. You should have the following items packed and ready to go in case any emergencies arise. 

• A three day supply of water. One gallon of water per person per day. 
• A three day supply of easy to prepare non-perishable food for each person in your household.
• At least a seven day supply of medication and extra medical items. Don't forget extra batteries, hearing aids, glasses, contact lenses, syringes, and canes if needed. 
• If you have an infant or toddler, add extra bottles, formula, baby food, and diapers. 
• Include extra laminated copies of personal documents such as medication lists, pertinent medical information, deed/lease to home, birth certificates, and insurance policies.
• A fully stocked first aid kit needs to be included. 
• You need to include a laminated copy of family information and emergency contact information. 
• Emergency blankets for each family member will be needed.
• If you have pets, include extra leashes, collars, food, water, carriers, and bowls for each pet.  
• A few extra things to include are a flashlight, extra batteries, maps of the area, cash, cellphones with extra chargers, a multipurpose tool, a camera to take photos of the damage.

If you have damage from a recent storm, call SERVPRO of Pickens County (864) 855-3993. 

3 Reasons To Avoid Driving During A Flood

9/3/2020 (Permalink)

3 Reasons To Avoid Driving During A Flood 

It is extremely frustrating to be stuck inside your home when it's storming, but it is important that you avoid driving when roads begin to flood. A flooded street may appear easy to handle, but it's a risk to your safety. The following are just a few reasons why it is best to stay off the roads during severe weather.

1. It can damage your vehicle 

Your car does not have the necessary equipment to protect it from water. Water can flood your engine, causing it to malfunction. Electric components can short out, and areas of your car can rust, leaving you with a massive repair bill.  

2. There may be hidden road damage

A flooded road may appear safe, but you never know what could be lurking beneath the water's surface. Potholes, tree branches, and other debris from the storm could damage your car and make it more difficult for you to drive safely.

3. You could lose control of your car

Whether you've been driving for a few years or a few decades, you can't be prepared for everything. Just six inches of water can sweep you and your car away. One of the best travel tips for driving during a flood is to simply not to do it. Stay put if possible, and once the water has receded, you can find a more comfortable place to stay.

4 Steps You Can Take To Protect Your Home From Storm Damage

8/6/2020 (Permalink)

4 Steps You Can Take To Protect Your Home From Storm Damage

You can't control the weather, but you can prepare your home for it. When it comes to storm damage, basic upkeep goes a long way! Here are a few tips you can use to prepare your home. 

1. Buy a Generator: A storm can knock out your power for several hours or days. A generator can go a long way towards ensuring you don't lose food or the livability of your home until the power is restored. 
2. Trim Your Trees: Trimming your trees is a good way to protect your roof and windows. 
3. Replace Missing or Damaged Shingles: If a shingle is damaged, it's more likely to break free. If a shingle is missing, then there is a gap for the wind to get under and do more damage. 
4. Keep Your Gutters Clean: Make sure your gutters are free of debris, and your downspouts flow away from your foundation.  

Local Church Recovers From Tornado with SERVPRO of Pickens County

6/19/2020 (Permalink)

Local Church Recovers From Tornado with SERVPRO of Pickens County

The city of Seneca was rocked by an EF3 tornado around three am on the Monday after Easter Sunday. Meteorologists tracked the storm all day, and many families were able to get to shelter before the tornado touched down. However, most residents were left without power or water.
The morning after the tornado, the pastor of Seneca Baptist Church called SERVPRO of Pickens County. A portion of the roof was peeled back, causing the pews and sanctuary to become soaked with rainwater.
Our team arrived and immediately began setting generators and installing power distribution boxes to help run our specialty drying equipment. We had to call in our Storm Team to help with the drying process. They brought a trailer load full of dehumidifiers and other drying equipment. Together, we were able to dry the church and make it "Like it never even happened."

If you have storm damage please call SERVPRO of Pickens County  (864) 855 3993 

For more information please click here. 

How To Prepare For A Flood.

2/7/2020 (Permalink)

Flooding is a temporary overflow of water onto land. Floods can result from rain, snow, coastal storms, storm surges, and other water systems. They can develop slowly or quickly, so know what to do is imperative. Start preparing now before a flood hits. 

What Can You Do Now? 

• Know the types of flood risk in your area. 
• Sign up for your community's warning system. 
• If flash flooding is a risk in your location, then monitor potential signs, like heavy rain. 
• Learn and practice evacuation routes, shelter plans, and flash flood response. 
• Create an emergency kit and keep it a safe place. Take into consideration each person's specific needs, including medication. Include items for your pets in your emergency kit. 
• Purchase or renew a flood insurance policy. 
• Keep important documents in a waterproof container. Create and save password-protected digital copies. 
• Protect your property. Move valuables to higher levels. Declutter drains and gutters. Consider installing check values and a sump pump with a battery. 

What Should You Do During An Earthquake?

2/6/2020 (Permalink)

What Should You Do During An Earthquake? 

Imagine you're at home or work, or maybe you're outside when suddenly the ground begins to shake violently. It finally occurs to you, what is going on, it's an earthquake. Do you know what to do next? Check out these tips below to learn how to protect yourself during an earthquake. 

• Stay calm. Stay indoors if you are indoors. If you are outside, stay outside.  
•  Stand against a wall, stand in a doorway, or crawl under heavy furniture if you are indoors. Stay clear from windows and outside doors. 
• If you're outside, stay away from power lines, buildings, or anything that might fall. 
• Don't use matches, candles, or any flame after an earthquake.  
• If you're driving a car, stop the car and stay inside until the earthquake stops. 
• Avoid elevators. 

An Earthquake is Coming What Do You Do?

2/5/2020 (Permalink)

An earthquake is the shaking of the Earth's surface, which results from a sudden release of energy in the Earth's lithosphere. Earthquakes can range in size from minor, where they can't be felt, to brutal, where destruction can wreak across entire cities. However, before an earthquake hits, there are a few things you can do to minimize damage to your home and ensure your safety. 

What To Do Before an Earthquake: 

• Anchor heavy furniture, cupboards, and appliances to the walls or floor; to prevent them from falling over and causing damage to your home. 
• Remove heavy objects from shelves. 
•  Plan a meeting place for everyone in your family to meet after an earthquake. 
• Make sure you have a fire extinguisher, first aid kit, a battery-powered radio, a flashlight, and extra batteries in your emergency kit. 
• Know how to turn off the gas, water, and electricity. Turn the utilities off before the earthquake hits. 
• Memorize the earthquake evacuation plan at your school or workplace. 

Protect yourself before the shaking begins! 

How To Thaw Frozen Pipes!

12/16/2019 (Permalink)

How To Thaw Frozen Pipes! 

Winter freezes are quickly approaching, which means frozen pipes will become more prevalent. If you turn on your facet on an icy day and only a trickle comes out, you may have a frozen pipe. Don't worry! We have compiled a few tips to help you thaw out frozen pipes and keep your home from flooding. 

1. Turn on the faucet. As you heat the frozen pipe, the ice plug will begin to melt. Running water through the pipe, as cold as it is, will help melt ice in the pipe. 
2. Apply heat to a section of pipe.  Do not use any device with an open flame. The high heat can damage the pipes or even start a fire. Instead, use an electric heating pad or hairdryer. 
3. Apply heat until full water pressure is restored. Check all other faucets in your home to see if you may have another frozen pipe. 
4. Call a licensed plumber If you are unable to locate the frozen pipe, if the area is not accessible, or if you cannot thaw the pipe yourself. 

If a pipe bursts in your home, don't stress! Call SERVPRO of Pickens County 864-855-3993! 

How Can You Prevent Flood Damage To Your Pickens County Home?

9/16/2019 (Permalink)

Preventing Flood Damage To Your Pickens County Home. 

Flood hazards can occur due to severe thunderstorms, hurricanes, seasonal rains, or other weather-related events. Floods can cause several problems from damage to your house and possessions, contaminating the water, to area-wide destruction. Below you can find tips to help you prepare for any type of flood situation. 

• If you can, avoid building in a flood-prone area unless you elevate and reinforce your home. 
• Elevate the furnace, water heater, and electric panel if susceptible to flooding. 
• Install check valves in sewer traps to prevent floodwater backing up into the drains of your home. 
• Contact community officials to find out if they are planning on constructing barriers to stop floodwaters. 
• Seal the walls in your basement to prevent floodwaters from entering your basement. 
• Sit down and review your insurance policy. Flood coverage is not a part of most homeowners, mobile home, or renters insurance policies. Know there is a thirty-day waiting period for coverage to take effect. 

If you experience flood damage to your home valuables, call SERVPRO of Pickens County (864) 855-3993! 

A Hurricane Is Coming Are You Prepared?

9/5/2019 (Permalink)

A Hurricane Is Coming Are You Prepared? 

Hurricanes are colossal storms that begin forming over the ocean. As they move inland they begin creating high winds, heavy rainfall, storm surges, rip currents, tornadoes, coastal and inland flooding. Follow these tips below, so you are better prepared before a hurricane. 

• Sign up for local alerts and warnings. 
• Learn your emergency evacuation route for your area. 
• Remove dead limbs and debris from your yard. Move patio furniture, garbage cans, bikes, and other loose and lightweight objects indoors. Anchor gas grills, propane tanks, and other objects that are too dangerous to bring indoors. 
• Create an Emergency Communication Plan. Pick an out of state contact that everyone can check-in and report their status too. 
• Make an emergency preparedness kit and a go-bag. A go-bag should include items you need to take with you in case you are evacuated. Your go-bag should be easy to carry and kept in a place where you can grab it quickly.  
• Collect any financial, medical, educational, and legal documents and put them in your emergency kit. Put them in your go-bag and take them with you when you evacuate. 
• Stock up on emergency supplies. You should have at least a three day supply of water and non-perishable food in your emergency kit, as well as extra medication, a first aid kit, hygiene items, and spare clothes. 

Weather The Storm With SERVPRO of Pickens County

8/8/2019 (Permalink)

You sit back and relax and listen to the rain pour outside. Suddenly you feel the carpet under your feet getting wet. Panicked you jump up and immediately look for a source, only to find this water is coming from outside your home. What do you do next? This exact scenario happened to this homeowner, and he called SERVPRO of Pickens County.
Our team was ready to work and arrived with equipment in hand. The crew began removing the water from the carpet. Due to the category of water that entered the home, parts of the baseboards and carpet padding were removed. Drying equipment was set to ensure the subfloor was dried. Once everything was dry, the carpet was treated and cleaned. When everything was dry and cleaned, the homeowner couldn't believe the results.

When Storms or Floods hit Pickens County, SERVPRO is ready!

11/19/2018 (Permalink)

When Storms or Floods hit Pickens County, SERVPRO is ready!

SERVPRO of Pickens County specializes in storm and flood damage restoration. Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Pickens County, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 864-855-3993

What To Do After a Thunderstorm

10/18/2018 (Permalink)

What To Do After a Thunderstorm 

Take the Appropriate Steps to Stay Safe: 

• Never drive through a flooded roadway. You cannot predict how deep the water may be. It only takes 12 inches of water to move a small vehicle and 18 inches to move a large vehicle.
• Stay away from storm-damaged areas to keep from putting yourself at risk from the effects of severe thunderstorms. 
• Continue to listen to a NOAA Weather Radio or to your local radio and television for updated information or instructions, as access to roads or some parts of the community may be blocked. 
• Help people who may need special assistance, such as infants, children, the elderly or the disabled. 
• Stay away from downed power lines and report them immediately.
• Watch your animals closely. Keep them under your direct control. 

If Lightning Strikes 

Follow these steps if someone has been struck by lightning: 

• Call for help. Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number. Anyone who has been struck by lightning requires medical care. 
• Check the person for burns and other injuries. If the person is not breathing, call 9-1-1 and begin CPR. People who have been hit by lightning do no retain an electrical charge and can be handled safely. 

Recovering After a Thunderstorm  

Flood Warning versus Flood Watch

10/18/2018 (Permalink)

Flood Warning versus Flood Watch 

Flash Flood Warning: Take Action! A Flash Flood Warning is issued when a flash flood is imminent or is already occurring. If you are in a flood-prone area, you should move to higher ground. A flash flood is a sudden violent flood that can take from minutes to hours to form. It is possible to experience a flash flood in areas that are not immediately receiving rain.  

Flood Warning: Take Action! A Flood Warning is issued when the hazardous weather event is imminent or already happening. A Flood Warning is issued when flooding is imminent or already occurring.   

Flood Watch: Be Prepared: A Flood Watch is issued when conditions are favorable for a specific hazardous weather event to occur. A Flood Watch is issued when conditions are favorable for flooding. It does not mean flooding will occur, but it is possible.   

Flood Advisory: Be Aware: A Flood Advisory is issued when a specific weather event that is forecast to occur may become a nuisance. A Flood Advisory is issued when flooding is not expected to be bad enough to issue a warning. However, it may cause significant inconvenience, and if caution is not exercised, it could lead to situations that may threaten your life or your property. 

Flood Warning vs. Watch  

Severe Thunderstorm Watch versus Severe Thunderstorm Warning

10/16/2018 (Permalink)

Severe Thunderstorm Watch versus Severe Thunderstorm Warning

According to the Redcross, a thunderstorm that produces hail at least 1 inch in diameter or produces wind gusts of at least 58 mph, is considered severe. Thunderstorms produce lightning. Lightning kills more people each year than tornadoes and hurricanes. Thunderstorms can produce heavy rain, flash floods, and high winds. These effects can cause damage to homes and power outages. 

Know The Difference

Severe Thunderstorm Watch - this means severe thunderstorms are possible in and near the designated watch area. You should stay informed and be ready to act if and when a severe thunderstorm warning is issued. 

Severe Thunderstorm Warning - Severe weather has been reported by spotters or indicated by weather radar. The warning indicates there is an imminent danger to your life and your property. 

About Thunderstorms

What To Do During a Thunderstorm

10/16/2018 (Permalink)

What To Do During a Thunderstorm 

• Stay updated by listening to your local news or NOAA Weather Radio. Watch for the signs of a storm, like flashes of lightning, high winds, and dark skies. 
• If thunderstorms are likely, stay indoors. Often, people who were struck by lightning were not in the area where rain occurred. 
• When a severe thunderstorm warning is issued, you should take shelter in a sturdy building or in a vehicle with the windows closed. Do not take shelter in a mobile home, as they can blow over in high winds. 
• If you can hear thunder then you are close enough to be in danger of getting struck by lightning. The National Weather Service recommends staying inside for at least 30 minutes after the last thunderclap. 
• Avoid using electrical equipment, appliances, and telephones. Use battery-powered TVs and radios instead. 
• Shutter windows and close and secure outside doors. Keep away from windows. 
• Do not use plumbing, bathe or shower during a thunderstorm. 
• If you are driving, safely exit the roadway and park. Stay in your vehicle and turn on your emergency flashers until the rain ends. Avoid touching metal or anything that can conduct electricity in or outside the vehicle. 
• If you are trapped outside and cannot make it indoors, avoid high ground; water, tall isolated trees; and any metal objects. It is not safe to stay in picnic shelters, dugouts or sheds. 

Responding Appropriately During a Thunderstorm