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Fire & Water - Cleanup & Restoration

Archived Blog Posts

When an Odor Wont Go Away in Your Cerritos Home!

1/12/2022 (Permalink)

Detecting and Deterring Odor in Your Cerritos Home

When an odor persists in your Cerritos home, what can be done? Rather than living with the stench, easy measures can be taken to start eliminating common sources. If and when the odor still persists, our team of local Certified Clean experts are here to help! But first, what can you do?

  • Common Sources of Odor

The first step is to check common sources of odor. The most common is unused drains. When drains are not regularly flushed out or cleaned, they become dry which allows residue to dry up and emit an evaporated odor back up through the plumbing. 

Another common issue is moisture buildup not being properly vented. If a source is causing steam or high levels of humidity, this can easily yield mildew buildup when not properly vented. High amounts of mildew can produce odors as well as become harmful when left unattended for long periods of time. 

  • How to Deter

If drains are unused it is recommended to flush them out using a vinegar solution at least once a week. 

If using a source with high amounts of steam, it is recommended to keep windows fully open or vent out the humidity by other means. Other valuable tools include an Air purifier which filters out harmful elements in the air.

  • When the Scent Persists

If you have tried the above mentioned alternatives and an odor still persists, call SERVPRO of Cerritos. Our technicians are trained to the industry standards and can detect signs that may not be seen by the untrained eye.

Our inspections are free of charge during business hours, call 562-916-7646 or find us online today!

Your Local Cerritos Restoration Experts Prioritize Health and Safety

4/3/2021 (Permalink)

The 'Storm' of COVID-19 Does Not Stop Your Cerritos Restoration Experts

While continuous uncertainty is ever present surrounding the end of the global pandemic, one thing is absolutely sure. No matter the circumstance, SERVPRO of Cerritos is here to help you by promoting and practicing regular cleaning procedures. 

  • Daily Disinfecting & Preventative Measures

Anytime we are dispatched to your Cerritos or Hawaiian Gardens home, our restoration experts equip themselves with new or pre-disinfected supplies. These include clean drying equipment, personal protective equipment and shoe covers or floor protection. 

  • Designated Drying Zones

Once an area has been deemed ready for restoration (removing of affected materials, placing drying equipment etc.) our field technicians ensure that the zone is properly sealed off as well as any contents protected. Not only does this aid the drying process but also ensures dust and debris are properly contained and removed from the work area. 

  • Here to Help 

We recognize as a Southern California resident, there are many choices to make when it comes to restoration. Our number one goal is to make the damage in your home "Like it never even happened," by promoting efficiency, health and safety. 

Have questions? Call us today at 562-916-7646 or find us on Yelp!

What Having A Preferred Vendor in Your Cerritos Home Means

11/20/2020 (Permalink)

A Preferred Vendor Makes the Difference in Your Cerritos Home or Business

With 2022 now underway, our team took the time to reflect on the key principles in carrying out best business practices.

One thing that will always be a timeless practice of SERVPRO of Cerritos/Hawaiian Gardens is quality work done in a timely manner. This is a cornerstone for our operations. Heading into the new year, we continue to hold the status as a Preferred Vendor with major insurance carriers including but not limited to Mercury, Farmers and State Farm Insurances. 

What does this mean for you, our valued customer? This means you can trust us to get the job done in a manner above and beyond expectations. Preferred vendor programs with the above listed insurance carriers require us to be in frequent communication with your adjuster about each step of the restoration process. In addition, if further steps need to be taken that are outside the original scope of work, photo documentation and an additional work plan are provided to support this action. 

This is just a brief snapshot into the in-depth process our SERVPRO team takes to ensure we maintain top quality service and make the process as easy as possible for our customers. 

We are here in your community, here to help 24/7. Please feel free to call us at any time at 562-916-7646

How SERVPRO of Cerritos/Hawaiian Gardens Dries Your Business

11/12/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Cerritos/Hawaiian Gardens Adapts for You - What Happens When a Business is Flooded?

When a pipe burst, flood or drain line compromise occurs in your Cerritos/Hawaiian Gardens business, the situation can become extremely overwhelming. These types of situations demand a knowledgeable and rapid response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.

In the rare instance that a portion of your office or work area would need to be closed off, our project managers work closely with you to develop a personalized drying plan. This can involve our crews working outside of normal business hours or even through the night. Additionally, we employ specialized dry down procedures for commercial properties. This ensures our drying is the most efficient, making sure things get back to normal for you right away. 

Our team recognizes there is no convenient time for a water damage to happen. What we care about most is guiding you through and restoring your property as efficiently as possible.

Have questions? Give us a call today at 562-916-7646

24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Cerritos Service

10/30/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Cerritos/Hawaiian Gardens is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today -562-916-7646

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Cerritos/Hawaiian Gardens has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's 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 Professionals 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)?

About SERVPRO of Cerritos/Hawaiian Gardens

SERVPRO of Cerritos/Hawaiian Gardens 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.

Heading into 2022 with our IICRC Certified Team of Experts

10/30/2020 (Permalink)

Our Highly Trained Restoration Specialists can restore your Cerritos Home

SERVPRO of Cerritos/Hawaiian Gardens 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. As of the start of 2022 our new team members are actively pursuing industry standard certifications. In 2022, what is required of an IICRC Certified Firm?

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 Cerritos/Hawaiian Gardens

SERVPRO of Cerritos/Hawaiian Gardens 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.

Are you in need of drying services? Just have a question about one of our services? Give us a call today at 562-916-7646.

For Immediate Service in Cerritos, Call SERVPRO

10/30/2020 (Permalink)

One of the staples of SERVPRO of Cerritos/Hawaiian Gardens is that our team provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster in Cerritos and the surrounding area.

We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

  • 24-Hour Emergency Service
  • Faster to Any-Sized Disaster
  • Highly Trained Restoration Technicians
  • A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry
  • Locally Owned and Operated
  • Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment 

Have Questions? Call Us 24/7 – 562-916-7646

Residential Services

Whether your SoCal home needs emergency flood damage or your upholstery cleaned, you can depend on us.  Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and can make your property look its best. Learn more about our residential services through customer testimonials and online backgrounds. Our key services include:

  • Water Damage Restoration
  • Fire Damage Restoration
  • Mold Remediation
  • Storm Damage Restoration
  • Cleaning Services
  • Building/Reconstruction Services

Commercial Services

There's never a convenient time for fire or Water damage to strike your Cerritos commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business. Learn more about our commercial services: https://www.SERVPROcerritoshawaiiangardens.com/commercial-restoration-cleaning

  • Commercial Water Damage Restoration
  • Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

Socal Residents: We Specialize in Flooded Basement Cleanup and Restoration!

10/30/2020 (Permalink)

Socal Residents: We Specialize in Flooded Basement Cleanup and Restoration!

While Southern California homes may not often contain a basement, if your home does it's important to know what steps to take if a flood occurss.

Basements are inherently prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of a building and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level. There are a number of reasons why your Cerritos basement could flood, including: 

  • A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe
  • Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home
  • Storm sewer backup
  • Sanitary sewer backup
  • Foundation drainage failure
  • Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure
  • And many more

Have Questions about Basement Flooding?

Call Today -562-916-7646

If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can jeopardize your health and safety, and cause severe damage to your home’s structure. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.

The bottom line: a flooded basement can jeopardize your health, safety, and your home’s integrity. It’s worth making a call to SERVPRO of Cerritos and let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. We have earned the trust of hundreds of homeowners, business owners, and property professionals.

We are Flooded Basement Specialists:

  • We are Available 24 hours/7 days per week
  • We’re a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies
  • We Bill The Insurance Directly – One Less Thing For You To Worry About
  • Our Technicians are Highly-Trained  in Water Restoration Techniques
  • We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards
  • Advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment

Basement Flooded? Call Us Today – We’re Ready To Help 562-916-7646

Standing Water in Your Cerritos Home Doesn't Stand A Chance!

10/25/2020 (Permalink)

Here in Your Community. Here to Help. Here in Your Community. Here to Help.

Extracting Standing Water From Your Cerritos, CA Home

Imagine a calm afternoon in your place of peace and tranquility, your home. No interruptions, just pure bliss.  Nothing could ruin this day...or so you thought. Just as you open a door, you set foot in the room and - slosh! That's when it happens...you find several inches of standing water pooled together start to intrude into the home. Where is this coming from? What can be done?

It is exactly in these type of circumstances that Our team of experts are trained and ready to handle. With our use of cutting edge technology we are prepared to handle any size disaster. So how does it work?

When standing water occurs, there is no delicate way to take care of it. Our field techs are equipped with Portable Flood Removal Extractors designed to properly eliminate pools of water in a residence or commercial environment. This equipment is designed with two, three stage vacuums (three rates of suction) to not only extract the standing water but also eliminate moisture in small hard-to-reach areas. This high powered extractor is designed to be portable so even in tight spaces it can get the job done. 

Once the water has been extracted and as much moisture eliminated as possible, our techs work together to develop the correct drying plan for the remaining zones affected. Drying services are initiated with dehumidifies/air movement and work is completed in the most efficient manner possible. When appropriate our staff work with approved vendors to ensure that the source of the loss is repaired and all signs of moisture are completely eliminated. 

With us, standing water doesn't stand a chance!

Feel free to call today! 562-916-7646

Cerritos Smoke and Soot Cleanup

10/25/2020 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. 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. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Cerritos/Hawaiian Gardens 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. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

  • Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

  • Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

  • Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, 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 also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – 562-916-7646

Ensuring Your Safety! Caring for our Cerritos Customers and Staff

10/13/2020 (Permalink)

How the SERVPRO of Cerritos/Hawaiian Gardens Team Works to Keep You Safe

While times are uncertain to say the least, there are two things you can always depend on from the SERVPRO of Cerritos/Hawaiian Gardens branch. What are these? Safety and Cleanliness!

Especially during these times, our team recognizes one of the few places to have a sense of peace is in your home. When a water or fire damage occurs in your Southern California residence, we take the utmost care in ensuring safety and cleanliness are at the forefront of our operations. This is to ensure we preserve a safe and peaceful environment while servicing your SoCal Home. 

Our operations managers conduct weekly safety meetings with crew chiefs and technicians to keep them up to date and adaptable to various challenges that are common to the industry. In addition, all equipment is regularly sanitized and personal protective equipment is an absolute must for all technicians. 

Though times may be uncertain, you can depend on the SERVPRO of Cerritos/Hawaiian Gardens branch to promote peace of mind. We do this by maintaining all safety measures and ensuring clear communication throughout our entire process.

We are here to help you through any unexpected event, call today at 562-916-7646.

We are Cerritos Cleaning Experts

10/10/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Cerritos/Hawaiian Gardens is Here to Help during this time of need

During this unprecedented time caused by the global pandemic of coronavirus, we felt it a reminder to our customers that we are specialists in cleaning services would be beneficial. In all of our cleaning practices and procedures, we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. There are two key factors that our set our cleaning services a level above the competition.

  • Specialized Training

We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform on a daily basis.

The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets and tables. Other spaces mentioned in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces include:

  • Kitchen/Food Areas
  • Bathrooms
  • Schools/Classrooms
  • Offices
  • Retail Spaces
  • Water Fountains
  • Shelving/Racks
  • Sales Counters
  • Carpets and Rugs
  • Stair Handrails
  • Elevator Cars
  • Playground Equipment
  • Fitness Equipment
  • Specialized Products

The CDC recommends usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar pathogens to the coronavirus. Multiple products in the SERVPRO product line carry the EPA-approved emerging pathogens claims. While there is currently no product tested against this particular strain of the coronavirus, we are following all guidelines as provided by the CDC and local authorities.

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning

If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of Cerritos/Hawaiian Gardens  562-916-7646

Emphasis on Quality & Efficiency - Restoring Your Cerritos Business

10/10/2020 (Permalink)

How the SERVPRO of Cerritos/Hawaiian Gardens Team Restores Your Business

There is never and ideal time for a water damage to occur. Especially during these uncertain times, the last thing needed is for a business to be shut down longer than expected. The SERVPRO of Cerritos/Hawaiian Gardens team recognizes the need for timely response and efficient restoration to get your place of business back in order. This is why our team has put the following procedures in place to quickly address and mitigate even the largest commercial water damages.

  • Proprietary Systems

In any water damage from a pinhole leak to a large loss main burst, organization is a crucial component to the drying process. Our team implements technologies to track drying progress in every affected zone. This means that at any given time any crew on site is able to track exactly how much progress each zone, and material within that zone, is progressing. This gives us the information needed to ensure we provide an accurate drying time table. 

  • Cutting Edge Drying Equipment

Another vital component to timely and effective drying involves equipment being placed. The SERVPRO of Cerritos/Hawaiian Gardens team is centralized around the idea of being ready for any size disaster. This means we have the appropriate hardware on hand to address situations from small crawlspaces and attics to multi level business structures to dry any environment in the most rapid and effective method. 

Water intrusion into your place of business can never be planned for. However, the staff at the SERVPRO of Cerritos/Hawaiian Gardens branch plan on employing all procedures to get your place of business back in order.

Call the experts today at 562-916-7646!

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned – A Defensive Cleaning Program for Your Cerritos Home

10/8/2020 (Permalink)

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned seal Our certified defensive cleaning program gives your Cerritos business a way forward by providing ongoing safety and cleanliness procedures.

As our Cerritos & Hawaiian Gardens 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 touchpoints, 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 Cerritos/Hawaiian Gardens today at  562-916-7646 for your Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation.

When Storms or Floods hit Cerritos,CA SERVPRO is ready!

5/28/2020 (Permalink)

In the event of a storm disaster: Our highly trained crews are ready to respond 24/7 to storm or flood damage in Cerritos and Hawaiian Gardens CA.

Body:

SERVPRO ofCerritos/Hawaiian Gardens 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, 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 at 562-916-7646

SERVPRO's Document Restoration Process

4/13/2020 (Permalink)

Making Document Restoration Efficient for Cerritos Businesses 

When unexpected damage is caused in your Cerritos,CA home or place of business, the process can prove to be more difficult and time consuming than expected. What adds to this already stressful process is when important and/or valuable documents are found damaged. Thankfully, your SERVPRO of Cerritos/Hawaiian Gardens team understands this and has a solution to help using our very own document recovery facility. 

After each item is digitally inventoried and freeze dried through our system, it is decontaminated via Gamma rays. High-energy photons are emitted from an isotope source (Cobalt 60) producing ionization (electron disruptions) throughout the material. These photon-induced changes at the molecular level cause the death of the organism or render the organism incapable of reproduction.

After this step in the process is complete, customers have the option to have all documents completely digitized for easy access to records in the future or appropriate disposal if they choose. 

Our staff at SERVPRO of Cerritos/Hawaiian Gardens are here to serve you! During these trying times we wish to ensure customer satisfaction in all aspects of our services. 

Safe Southern California Commuting during Storms

4/9/2020 (Permalink)

Best Practices and Safety During Storms in Cerritos,CA

While residents in Cerritos,CA have seen a fair share of wet weather, our staff wanted to share several safety tips to keep in mind. This information covers vehicle maintenance as well as activities at home. 

  • The First 10 minutes

When rain patterns are present, the first ten minutes are the most critical. This is due to the fact that residue from oils and motor fluids are being dampened thus causing a slippery surface on most public roads. It is recommended to bare this in mind and keep speeds at a reasonably cautious pace. 

  • Vehicle Maintenance 

It is ideal to ensure the following before wet weather starts to manifest: 

  1. Check vehicle tires to ensure proper traction and inflation.
  2. Check windshield wipers to ensure you will have as clear visibility as possible. 
  3. Ensure all break lights and headlights are in working order. 

This basic vehicle maintenance takes just several minutes and will ensure a safer commute. 

  • Activities Involving Electricity 

When performing any task involving electrical equipment or tools during wet weather, caution is most important. Ensure that your tool or piece of equipment's wiring is sealed properly and there are no frayed bits of wiring present. If operating tools or appliances with rechargeable batteries it is highly advised to do this in a covered area. 

SERVPRO of Cerritos/Hawaiian Gardens Field Technicians are trained in handling the damages that result from storms. Our team is here to you help you! Should you require our services, we are available 24/7 to help you!

Protecting Your Southern California Business Against COVID-19

3/30/2020 (Permalink)

Here to Help During COVID-19 and Beyond Corona Virus atoms stopped by SERVPRO

Our Restoration Team Works to Protect Your Cerritos Business from COVID-19

As the spread of COVID-19 (novel coronavirus) continues, our team is closely monitoring the situation and evaluating how we can better serve our customers during this distressing time.

  • Protecting Your Southern California Business

We especially recognize the economic damage that is resulting from such a pandemic. With these distressing times, we are here to offer aid in protecting what's important to you. This is done by means of ULV fogging to effectively disinfect and treat places where a person has been diagnosed with COVID-19.

  • ULV Fogging

With a virus such as COVID-19 being able to be transmitted through droplets, thorough disinfecting is vital. The SERVPRO of Cerritos/Hawaiian Gardens team is equipped with ULV (Ultra Low Volume) Fogging Machines for this very purpose. These machines are designed to deodarize and disinfect any space through pressurized distribution of CDC approved disinfectants and other cleaning products.

  • Why it works?

Our fogging machines have a function to enable flow control which atomizes liquids from fine (20 microns) to heavy (56 microns). With a flexible hose, all areas in a space are thoroughly covered.

For questions about this virus, please visit: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html

If you would like to find out more about our disinfecting services, please call (562)916-7646

We are here to help you!

Administrative Safety in Your Cerritos or Hawaiian Gardens Business

3/30/2020 (Permalink)

Quick Tips to Keep Staff Safe in Your Cerritos Business

While many business in Cerritos,CA are finding it difficult to navigate these trying times, it is important to keep in mind the health and safety of your staff. Here are several tips to keep your place of business as clean as possible: 

  • Avoid Contact with Individuals Showing Symptoms

At first, symptoms may seem like a light head cold or allergies. However, COVID-19 symptoms are very similar to that of an ordinary cold. If you come into contact with an individual showing these symptoms refrain from touching your face and thoroughly wash your hands as soon as possible. It is also highly recommended to disinfect common areas regularly. 

  • Personal Protective Equipment

As there are varying degrees of personal protective equipment we recommend the following for any given scenario:

  1. Gloves- Regular latex gloves will suffice. When taking them off your hands, be sure to take them off without touching your bare skin. This can be done by pulling the inner-wrist section of the glove and pulling down towards your fingertips away from the body. If done correctly, this will turn the glove inside out. Use the first glove to protect your fingers as you follow the same technique for the other hand. 
  2. Face Shield/Mask - Should a person be exhibiting symptoms and are unable to be dismissed from the place of business at the time, it is highly recommended that they wear a face shield or N95 mask to prevent contaminating others in the work place. 
  • Encourage Hand Washing 

While it may seem somewhat elementary, it is highly effective! OSHA recommends "frequently wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. When soap and running water are unavailable, use an alcohol-based hand rub with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands that are visibly soiled."

By heeding these safety and cleanliness tips, you can help prevent further spread of any type of illness. 

Orange County Apartment Left Charred After Fire Erupts

3/30/2020 (Permalink)

Restoring North Orange County Apartment Complex

When an AC Unit went up in flames in this Costa Mesa, CA apartment complex, there was little left to be saved. When the SERVPRO of Cerritos/Hawaiian Gardens team arrived at the site of damage, we recognized much work would need to be completed in order to effectively restore this property. As we speak, we are working to bring this customer 100% customer satisfaction and following SERVPRO standard procedure. 

We first started the restoration process in this space by identifying contents which could not be saved. Once these were taken care of, our team worked to eliminate further damages to the building by demo-ing areas that were no longer effective to the structural integrity of the job site. 

We are now working to complete this job according to the customers needs and get the tenant back into their home as soon as possible. 

Useful Tips to Prevent Flooding in Your Cerritos Home

3/30/2020 (Permalink)

Actions to Prevent Water Intrusion in Your Cerritos or Hawaiian Gardens Home

While there are far more serious concerns to be spending time on, the SERVPRO of Cerritos/Hawaiian Gardens staff members wanted to publish several useful tips to help those in the community be prepared for unexpected weather.

1.Secure the foundation of your property

Should high levels of moisture start impacting your property, it is essential that you ensure all cracks in your structural foundation are secure. If an area needs to be sealed it is recommended to use the appropriate cementing or sealing agent. 

2. Store valuable items properly

Though Southern California does not experience much flooding, it is also important to ensure valuables are stored in an appropriate manner. If you have an attic or second floor it is recommended to keep valuables and important documents in one of these spaces. This will ensure the safest means of storage. 

3. Ensure Water Tanks are properly maintained and mounted

Regularly inspect your water heater and gas tanks to ensure that all connections and lines are operational and properly sealed.

Though our local area does not experience severe flooding, by following these safety tips you can ensure your home and the contents in it remain as safe as possible. 

A Message From our Owner Regarding COVID-19 Services

3/26/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Cerritos/Hawaiian Gardens Owner addresses COVID-19 

To:  All SERVPRO of Cerritos Customers and Clients:

In a firm attempt to keep our employees and customers safe and continue providing these essential services, we are making strong choices.  We have been able to adapt our business fast so that we can still provide services to our customers and clients.

In addition to our normal services, we are able to provide cleaning and disinfecting services when and if needed or requested.  Our service trucks are stocked with the essential tools and equipment that can help us get through most emergencies with little deviation from normal cost and project time frames.  Our Emergency Services and majority of our other services we provide such as reconstruction from a water or fire damage, appear to fall under the category of “essential services.”  Therefore, we will continue to operate as normal.

If you need our assistance do not hesitate to contact us.

We are receiving a lot of questions amid the COVID-19 crisis.  We are referring everyone to either the Center for Disease Control (CDC), World Health Organization, or other government agencies for their questions pertaining to the virus itself.  

Control measures we have set in place for our office and production vehicles were instituted Monday March 16th and are as follows:

  1. Required- office staff.  At minimum 6’ distance at all times
  2. Required- Proactive cleaning for office and vehicles.
  3. Required – all personnel working inside a residence or place of business to have respiratory protection, gloves and booties.
  4. Separated- our office staff.  Minimize amount of personnel in the office to only essential office personnel and 6’ minimum space between office personnel.   
  5. Restricted- access to our facilities.
  6. Created- hygiene and personal contact protocols which are consistent with the CDC and WHO recommendations.
  7. Conducted- meetings with our staff and technicians outlining our plans for continued service.
  8. Providing- constant updates to our entire organization.
  9. Encouraged- all of our employees to be isolated to contact with only their household.

Our goal is to do our part to control the spread of this virus while giving our customers and clients the support that they need.  All of our office staff and technicians are dedicated to make this happen.

We look forward to servicing you during these trying times.

Please feel free to contact our office at (562) 916-7646 and we will put you in touch with your Account Representative or a Qualified Manager and they will guide you with the most up to date recommendations and answer any questions you may have. 

Prevent Garage Fires in your Cerritos Home

3/26/2020 (Permalink)

Avoiding a Garage Fire in your Cerritos Home

Due to a recent residence fire, our staff wanted to keep our community and potential customers informed of some helpful information in home safety. More specifically, here are some reminders to keep in mind to avoid potential fire hazards in your garage. 

To take preventative measures and keep your home safe, ensure the following:

  1. Store liquid chemicals, oils, and gasoline, in a shed away from your home. This will prevent feeding a fire should it occur.
  2. Keep items consisting of flammable material such as paper goods away from appliances. This will again prevent a fueling agent to increase the size of the fire.
  3. Operate only one appliance at a time inside your garage. 

By following these preventative measures, you can ensure the safety of those in your household. Should an unexpected emergency occur, our staff is available 24/7 to assist you.

Corona Virus (COVID-19) Safety

3/16/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Cerritos/Hawaiian Gardens Crew Cleanliness & Prevention during COVID-19

With the recent epidemic of the novel coronavirus also known as COVID-19, our team recognizes that this is a time for extreme awareness and cleanliness. Due to the nature of our work, we are taking preventative measures to ensure job cleanliness with both our customers as well as members of staff in mind. 

  • Operations

Though circumstances change day-to-day, at this time we are continuing field operations. We have ensured that our field technicians are equipped with masks to wear when preferred by customers as well as gloves and shoe booties at all times. As with our biohazard job sites, we are ensuring all staff are equipped with the necessary PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) to maintain cleanliness in the workplace.

  • Moving Forward

As with the rest of our community, we will continue to closely monitor the appropriate channels for updated information regarding this virus. Our priority is performing restoration services to our community in a safe and clean manner.

Should you require our services in your home or place of business, we are available to assist 24/7. Call today!

Preparing Your Cerritos/Hawaiian Gardens Home for Unexpected Weather

3/3/2020 (Permalink)

What Do I Need to Prepare For a Storm in Southern California?

While we may not see heavy moisture often in Southern California, it not uncommon to see sudden and unexpected changes in weather patterns. The SERVPRO of Cerritos/Hawaiian Gardens staff would like to keep local communities informed on best practices in SoCal Storm Safety. 

  • Regular Exterior Home Maintenance

In the event of heavy storm patterns, it is essential that the exterior drainage systems of residences are in working order. Check to make sure that all gutters and downspouts are clear of major blockages.

  • Supply Stock

In the unlikely circumstance that you are prevented from leaving your home, we recommend the following to have on hand:

  1. Fully Charged Flashlight
  2. Emergency Kit with any necessary medication
  3. Food & Water provisions to last for several days
  • Vehicle Maintenance

During a heavy storm, moving locations or retrieving supplies might be required. It is essential that vehicles used are in proper working order. Check that tire pressure is at the dealer recommended psi, all lights and wipers are fully functional, and extra fuel is in on hand if needed.

Though we may not see much severe weather in Southern California, the SERVPRO of Cerritos/Hawaiian Gardens staff looks to always keep the local communities informed and up to date. Should your Cerritos home or place of business be impacted, we are available 24/7 to help you!

Identify the Severity of Water Damage in Your Cerritos Home

2/3/2020 (Permalink)

How Severe is the Water Damage in Your Cerritos Home?

When unexpected water is found flooding a room in your Cerritos home, many concerns and questions can arise rapidly. Depending on the characteristics and source of the water damage, there are different procedures put in place to effectively mitigate the damages. 

  • Category One

This is the easiest type of water damage to restore as it commonly comes from a broken water outlet such as a leaking faucet or bath tub. This water is safe to handle without a professional on site as there are no harmful elements in it. However, SERVPRO of Cerritos/Hawaiian Gardens has the equipment necessary to fully dry and eliminate remaining moisture beneath the surface.

  • Category Two

The second category is also commonly known as Greywater. Greywater examples can include bathtubs, dish and clothing washers and the like. Though it is not as harmful as Category Three Blackwater, it can be very harmful if ingested. When eliminating category two damage, our team uses special protective equipment and cleansers.

  • Category Three

Often referred to as Blackwater, this substance is classified as being contaminated with human waste and/or other harmful pathogens. The pathogens and characteristics of this substance require professional care and any materials that come into contact with it are required to be completely disposed of.

No matter the severity of a water damage site, the team at SERVPRO of Cerritos/Hawaiian Gardens takes extreme care in restoring your home! 

Commercial Fire Safety Checklist

1/31/2020 (Permalink)

Is Your Southern California Business Fire Safe?

With the hustle and bustle of the greater Southern California area, remembering proper fire safety in places of business can often go unattended. To keep your place of business safe, we've consulted with LAFD and chosen three categories which are important no matter the size or type of workplace.

  • Electrical Equipment

This category can be a leading cause of commercials fires if electrical appliances in the workplace are not properly maintained. Regularly check that appliance wires are in working order and no wires are exposed or frayed. In addition, ensure all lighting appliances are appropriate for the work environment. Excessive heat from an inappropriate lighting source can ignite a flame.  

  • Access to Fire Equipment

It is important to make all staff in your workplace aware of the designated place for fire safety equipment such as fire extinguishers. In addition, regularly check manufacture labels and replace these instruments when necessary.

  • Exiting

Finally, when evacuating the facility is necessary it is highly advisable to ensure exit routes are established and kept clear of obstruction. 

These three points will help you and your team to keep the place of business safe and in working order. For more information please visit your local county fire safety website. 

At SERVPRO of Cerritos/Hawaiian Gardens, we aim to keep our community informed and up to date on all the latest safety practices! Should you experience an unexpected disaster, do not hesitate to call our team, available 24/7.

Cerritos Home Safety: Appliance Maintenance

1/31/2020 (Permalink)

How To Keep Your Cerritos/Hawaiian Gardens Home Fire Free

Your Cerritos home should remain a haven for you and your family. Due to this fact, our team would like to present several tips and reminders in maintaining the appliances within your home. 

  • Laundry Dryers

Thanks to modern technology, the cleaning process has become extremely efficient. If not properly maintained though, a clothing dryer could be the cause of a disaster within your home. The biggest key to preventing an unexpected disaster is to regularly maintain the lint trap in the appliance. The following process ensures your dryer does not become a hazard to you and your loved ones.

  1. Remove the lint trap
  2. Collect and dispose of all lint on the trap by hand.
  3. Vacuum the tray holder inside the dryer as well as the trap itself.
  4. Replace the lint trap when clear signs of damage are noticed. 
  • Ovens and Stoves

Ovens and stoves share a common danger in grease and oil remains not being removed. Deep cleaning these appliances when possible is strongly recommended. In sanitizing your stove top, removing the grates and soaking in a soap cleanser is also very advantageous. 

Home appliance maintenance can at times be tedious but these few steps will aid in appliance safety.

Restoring Damage Caused by Black Water

1/31/2020 (Permalink)

Black Water in Your Cerritos/Hawaiian Gardens Home

When a residential flood takes place, our team examines the characteristics of the affected area to determine what category or how severe the water damage is. Category 3 is the most noteworthy and damaging as it is used to classify the water as hazardous. This type of water quality is also commonly referred to as Black Water. 

  • What is Black Water?

Black Water or Category 3 Water Damage is defined as originating from sewage water which means it contains harmful chemicals and bacteria. 

  • Restoring Spaces Impacted by Black Water

If your home is impacted by black water, it is extremely important to let the trained experts handle the restoration of the space. Because black water contains harmful substances, specific quarantine procedures are employed to ensure full extermination and restoration of the affected area.

If your space is impacted by a Black Water flood, don't hesitate to call the experts at SERVPRO of Cerritos/Hawaiian Gardens.

Severe SoCal Weather Subsides - Safety Tips & Tricks for Unexpected Natural Events

11/4/2019 (Permalink)

What To Do When Unexpected SoCal Weather Changes Occur 

While the inconsistent and at times dangerous weather patterns have subsided for now, the SERVPRO of Cerritos/Hawaiian Gardens staff likes to keep all in the community informed with regular safety tips and tricks. This information breaks down into the following areas:

  • Securing Your Home

When a natural weather phenomenon is expected, securing your home as much as possible is vital. This can be done by making sure an "X" is taped over each pane in the home. This will help reduce window cracking and add an extra layer of resistance in the event of debris hitting the home. If tape is not possible, securing the areas with a board up is recommended.

  • Access to Power

During a natural disaster, a dependable power source is highly unlikely. With this in mind our branch recommends keeping several battery powered devices in stock and easily accessible. One of these is a battery-powered radio which can be used to turn into local weather and safety stations. In addition, a flashlight is essential in many scenarios. It is vital to keep a supply of appropriate batteries for these instruments and replace them when necessary.

For more information, we recommend seeing a full list at the link here: https://home.howstuffworks.com/home-improvement/home-diy/projects/storm-safety-tips.htm

In the event that restoration services are required on your home or business after a disaster, the SERVPRO of Cerritos/Hawaiian Gardens branch is here to help you!

Responding Appropriately to Approaching Thunderstorms

11/4/2019 (Permalink)

Don't Panic in a Southern California Thunderstorm

Though the communities of Southern California do not often experience thunderstorm conditions, there are several pieces of information useful to know when and if one occurs. 

  • "If Thunder Roars, Go Indoors"

The American Red Cross issued this safety guideline as a general rule of thumb. To ensure safety, it is recommended to stay indoors until 30 minutes after the last thunder clap have passed.

  • If you are stranded outdoors

In the unlikely event you are not able to safely reach shelter, avoid the following; high ground, water, tall/isolated trees and metal objects. 

  • Operating Electrical Appliances & Equipment

During a thunderstorm, it is highly recommended to only operate battery powered devices. Using grounded electrical equipment could result in shock and/or severe damages.

After a disaster, SERVPRO of Cerritos/Hawaiian Gardens is here to help you and your loved ones get back on your feet and your home restored.

Who Is Entering Your Cerritos Home or Business?

8/31/2019 (Permalink)

Why the industry-certified professionals at SERVPRO of Cerritos/Hawaiian Gardens are the ideal crew for your disaster

An unexpected disaster in your Southern California home or business raises many questions. What can cause even further anxiety though is when you don't know enough information about the restoration crew to put your mind at ease. We want our customers to be comfortable and know exactly who is on site. In this brief piece, our branch explains our crew and their skills in more detail. 

  • Skill sets

Each field crew that we send out is led by a crew chief who is well versed in all aspects of the restoration process. During each step of the process, our crew chief updates the customer as new information becomes available and guides the other crew members in what steps to take with the ultimate goal of efficient restoration in mind. It is common to have several crew member with varying IICRC certifications on site.

  • Personality

Both our office staff and field personnel are caring members of Southern California communities and families. They seek to further help those in other communities by effectively restoring homes and businesses. 

All staff at the SERVPRO of Cerritos/Hawaiian Gardens branch keeps effective restoration and customer satisfaction as their priority! We look forward to helping you!

Can Southern California Homeowners Do Their Own Restoration After A Disaster?

8/29/2019 (Permalink)

Why Hire the Professionals At SERVPRO of Cerritos/Hawaiian Gardens?

  • Effective Restoration

When a disaster occurs in your home or business, your first reaction may be to try to clean and restore the damage as soon as possible. Our team strongly recommends waiting for professionals to arrive and letting them assess the damage first. The following are several reasons why:

  1. Exposure to and spread of mold can result if areas are not properly cared for and tested first.
  2. In cases of fire damage, only industry-certified and properly graded equipment can be used to filter and eliminate smoke residue.
  3. In cases of water damage, moisture readings and mitigation lines are used to help our team determine which sections of a structure are compromised. 
  • Customer Service

In addition to proper care of impacted zones, by allowing our team of industry-certified professionals to be on site you receive top notch customer service. Through each step of the process we talk with your insurance provider and keep you up to date on what's next.

It may seem easier to handle a loss on your own. However, by allowing the SERVPRO of Cerritos/Hawaiian Gardens staff to take care of your damage, you ensure complete restoration and quality service in a timely manner. Call our office today! (562)916-7646

Making Your Cerritos Business More Attractive to Potential Customers

8/20/2019 (Permalink)

Attracting SoCal Customers By Keeping Your Commercial Environment Clean

While keeping a professional environment clean may seem obvious, there are several areas in commercial settings that commonly get overlooked. In this brief article, our team breaks down the various steps to keeping your business as clean and well organized as possible. 

  • Documents and Personal Workspaces

Even in today's tech-centered society, keeping paper copies of important documents and records is still commonplace. What we've discovered is that having a dedicated space with a specific system for organizing these documents does two positive things for your Cerritos business. This level of organization allows for a more productive work environment as assets are easily located. In addition, unnecessary clutter is eliminated.

  • Common Areas

Speaking to unnecessary clutter, this often occurs in common space. When there is lack of scheduling for team members to clean these common areas, employees can become frustrated and a messy work environment can slow production down. 

These are just two aspects the SERVPRO of Cerritos/Hawaiian Gardens team has found helpful in keeping a clean and efficient commercial environment. Stop by and see for yourself today!

Your SoCal Fire Data Report - Tips From the SERVPRO of Cerritos/Hawaiian Gardens Team

8/1/2019 (Permalink)

Staying Safe Through the Remainder of the SoCal Summer

As the summer season nears a close, fire preparedness does not seem to be as serious of a concern. However, recent data from the California Department of Forestry & Fire Protection reveals otherwise. Scott McLean of the Department spoke on the Socal Statistics. "Last week, California faced scorching temperatures and extremely dry conditions, leading to over 275 new wildfires starting across all jurisdictions, with 227 of those starting within CAL FIRE’s jurisdiction. While the majority of those fires were kept under 10 acres, there were a few that did grow into larger incidents."

So how do you enjoy a safe rest of the summer here in Southern California? Our team has a few safety tips to share!

SoCal Fire Safety Tips

  • Make sure your vehicles do not drag anything when in motion.
  • Only use landscaping tools before 10AM and never have metal blades in contact with dry foliage. 
  • Avoid causing excess heat (with tools or machinery) especially in windy environments.

We wish you the safest and best conclusion to your Southern California Summer.  

Our Arsenal of Equipment - Ready to Make Any Disaster Like it Never Even Happened

8/1/2019 (Permalink)

A Brief Breakdown On the SERVPRO of Cerritos/Hawaiian Gardens Equipment Capabilities

When it comes to handling disasters, we know that no environment is the same and we have to customize our approach to each loss. Being adaptable is one of the most crucial skills all our staff possesses. For this reason too, we keep a wide variety of equipment with various functions to make the restoration process as timely and efficient as possible. So, what are some of the on-site operators?

  • Dehumidifiers

As the name infers, Dehumidifiers main function is to reduce humidity in the impacted zone/s. These machines have a specially designed intake system to capture the moisture in the air, freeze it into a liquid state, then expel it out of the environment. These function best in a sealed environment.

  • Air Scrubbers

Yes it's true! These machines scrub the air! Air Scrubbers are designed to run the air in the environment through a series of filters that capture elements including smoke particles, dust particles and other harmful substances.

  • InjectiDry System

One of our highly effective proprietary systems include the InjectiDry. This system allows us to cover a large amount of flooring within a structure by placing heating mats on the surface which are hooked in to a heating source for even and rapid drying.

At SERVPRO of Cerritos/Hawaiian Gardens we adapt to all types of environments and are dedicated to serve you!

Faster to your Cerritos/Hawaiian Gardens Water Damage Event

8/1/2019 (Permalink)

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Cerritos/Hawaiian Gardens provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays.

Faster To Any Size Disaster

Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more.  SERVPRO of Cerritos/Hawaiian Gardens arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs. We know how difficult this type of damage can be. It can only become more complicated if you do not have the right help.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 –

562-916-7646

SERVPRO of Cerritos/Hawaiian Gardens has industry-certified professionals ready to help you!

Restoring Cerritos and Hawaiian Gardens Businesses

7/30/2019 (Permalink)

How does SERVPRO of Cerritos/Hawaiian Gardens approach a commercial loss?

  • Arriving on Site

Each field member in our branch has been trained to tailor their approach on site based on two factors. First, the source and level of damage to the structure. Next, what departments or areas need to be serviced first to have the business up and running as soon as possible?

  • Quality Restoration without Preventing Business Operations

Once the restoration plan is determined, goals are met to restore damages. To aid this process,  our technicians bring equipment on site which is designed to stay compact and out of the way while performing rapid remediation. 

  • Communication

We recognize the strain an unexpected disaster puts on your business workflow. That is why on every site we make customers well informed of exactly what is being done as well as a timeframe for execution of work.

At SERVPRO of Cerritos/Hawaiian Gardens we are ready to help in any size disaster. 

Taking Care of Our Customers from Initial Inspection to Final Walk

7/30/2019 (Permalink)

We Hold Ourselves Responsible for Guiding Every Customer through the Restoration Process

  • Others Involved in the Restoration Process

While SERVPRO of Cerritos/Hawaiian Gardens teams are dedicated to all aspects of the restoration process, it is occasionally necessary to bring on other vendors to perform specific tasks. For this reason our management team has built strong relationships with other operators we trust to perform such tasks.

  • Accountable for All Services

Though our staff may not always be on site during services being performed, we verify that the correct steps are taken. Our long-standing relationships with others in the industry ensure your home or business is in good hands. 

When unexpected disaster strikes, the process can already be complicated. By choosing the SERVPRO of Cerritos/Hawaiian Gardens team, you eliminate many headaches and ensure that a quality restoration team with clear communication takes care of you. 

Common Mistakes Preventing Cerritos Garage Fire Safety

7/25/2019 (Permalink)

Our team recently published a fire-related blog. However, the SERVPRO of Cerritos/Hawaiian Gardens branch also wanted to inform customers on specific tips for garage fire safety. 

  • Storing Products

It is commonly seen in home garages that oil, paints and propane products are being stored. This very dangerous and very common mistake is one of the highest causes to garage fires. Products with high combustion rates like these are recommended to be kept in a separate shed away from the home. In addition to this, keeping burnable items away from appliances is highly recommended.

  • Appliance Use

When using appliances, it is also recommended not to use more than one at a time. While it may be longer to run one at a time; saving on costs from damages as well the safety of those in the home over a few minutes on a chore is hardly debatable. 

For more information on practical garage safety tips, visit the U.S Fire Administration.

And if you are hit with an unexpected event like this, you know who to call!

Anaheim Home Electrical Fire - Keep Your Home Safe!

7/22/2019 (Permalink)

Fire Safety within Your Home

The SERVPRO of Cerritos/Hawaiian Gardens branch has recently encountered several fire losses caused by abnormal factors. One of these includes home electrical systems.

  • Facts About Home Electrical Fires

The Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) highlights an average of 51,000 home electrical fires occur each year. Sadly, more than 1,400 injuries occur because of these. Many of these occurrences could be prevented with a basic understanding of electrical principles. We'll focus briefly on two of these principles.

  • Home Outlets and Extension Cord Safety

There are two mistakes that often get made when handling extension cords within a home. First, extension cords are not designed to be used in multiples. If multiple extension cords are plugged in together, the cord can become overheated and cause a fire hazard. In addition to extension cords, outlets are equally as important. There are different outlet specifications used for different functions. These include types like Tamper Resistant and Surge Suppression receptacles. 

Please visit the ESFI website to find information on these electrical devices and more tips on home safety! 

Keeping Your SoCal Business Disaster Ready

7/15/2019 (Permalink)

You may have an effective plan at home in case of an emergency, but what about your business and those employed? Due to the recent tremors impacting the Southern California areas, our team felt it pertinent to provide some useful information. Specifically, two components businesses may use to reduce risks and prevent damage to essential workflow factors.

  • Planning Part 1 - Safety

The first component of this plan involves the safety of employees. Has contact information been updated and an evacuation route tested? Confirming employee information will prevent unnecessary stress in such an event. In addition, testing the evacuation plan before a disaster ensures all on the team clearly understand the measures that will be taken and where to go.

  • Planning Part 2 - The Internal Components of Your Business

A successful commercial emergency plan also involves identifying vital components of the workflow. Which departments need to be up and running as quickly as possible to resume business operations. Has essential data been backed up and protected? One aspect that has proved to maximize production with our team is using cloud based services to transfer data. This has made the SERVPRO of Cerritos/Hawaiian Gardens workflow more efficient and saved notable costs.

When a disaster strikes, it is essential to know what you will do. Having an effective commercial disaster plan will ensure your business and those employed will be prepared should such an event occur. After the disaster, the team at SERVPRO of Cerritos/Hawaiian Gardens will be ready to help you in making it "Like it never even happened." 

SoCal Due for Atmospheric River-Fueled Storm This Week

2/27/2019 (Permalink)

  • What is an Atmospheric River Storm?

Just like a river on the ground, an atmospheric river is a river-sized water pocket in the sky carrying "as much as 15 Mississippi Rivers" of concentrated water vapor. Through this last week of February 2019, Southern California is expected to see significant moisture from such a phenomenon.  

  • Moisture to be expected

Depending on where you reside, SERVPRO of Cerritos/Hawaiian Gardens recommends avoiding unnecessary travel and staying safe during this wet week ahead.

Moisture levels are likely to reach above two inches in San Diego, Riverside, and Orange counties while residents in higher elevations are expected to see as much as ten inches.

  • We are here for you

For more regularly updated information, please visit the LA Times here

If you should find a leak or extensive water damage in your home or business, don't hesitate to give the SERVPRO of Cerritos/Hawaiian Gardens team a call! 

(562)-916-7646

We recognize the impact sudden water damage can have and our crews are ready to assist you in making it "Like it never even happened." 

First Time Cerritos Homeowners Safety Tips

2/12/2019 (Permalink)

First time Southern California homeowners can experience mixed feelings when moving in. At first it may be exciting to make the space feel like home. Very close if not at the top of the priority list though, is keeping all in the residence safe. These few vital steps are key to increasing safety for any resident and eliminating opportunity for crime.

  • Have an Alarm System

Alarm systems are configured so that, when set off, representatives from the alarm service can notify local authorities as swiftly as possible. In addition, most alarms come with a sign to post in front of your home. This alone is an effective deterrent to thieves.

  • Lighting

'Ok time to go, shut the lights off...right?' Saving energy is recommended, however, some interior lighting is another vital factor to notifying any individuals with ill intent that the home is active.  Realtor.com recommends using different lights at different times and staying away from leaving the same light on often. 

  • TV Watchers - The Real Heroes

Finally, with the TV on at a suitable volume the noise it emits is another sign of an occupied and safe home. So don't forget to set the DVR and have an extra batch of popcorn ready!

While owning a home for the first time can be an exciting experience, these steps will help keep all in your home safe. 

Understanding Southern California Mold Occurrence

2/8/2019 (Permalink)

The SERVPRO of Cerritos/Hawaiian Gardens staff would like to share several crucial points in understanding mold growth.

If signs of mold are occurring in your home or business, don't hesitate to give the SERVPRO of Cerritos/Hawaiian Gardens team a call! (562)-916-7646

What is Mold?

Mold is often spread when a surface or area is especially damp. The microorganism does occur in various forms and some of these forms prove to be helpful to the environment. One of its functions is to break down dead plant and animal organisms. Other forms of the fungi however, can be a threat to your family's health. How can you tell the difference? 

Symptoms of Mold Presence

Because mold is a naturally occurring environmental agent, it is not possible to remove all mold from a structure or quickly tell if it is harmful. However, the following signs of mold growth can help you tell whether it may have an impact on your health:

  • A noticeably musty odor
  • Water stained and especially saturated surfaces over a long period
  • Warped flooring and/or rotting wood

Our Mold Remediation Process

Each mold occurrence varies in its form and areas it has spread. Thus, our skilled technicians individually assess each situation in order to properly treat and remediate the spread of it. Based on the amount of coverage, specially designed equipment may be placed to halt its spreading while a contained cleaning process takes place. 

For more safety and health information, please visit the California Department of Public Health website here .

Record-Breaking Storms Impact Southern California

1/14/2019 (Permalink)

As storms hit the California Coast, road closures and areas recently affected by wildfires become a risk. The information below will help you stay up to date as this week of rain continues.

  • Facts and Figures

People living in areas recently affected by wild fires should be ready for possibilities of mudslides and flashflooding.

Los Angeles and Orange Counties are expected to start with 1-2 inches of rain while valleys and the Inland Empire areas are expecting more.  

In addition, mountain regions are projected to have 6-12 inches of snow. 

  • Know your area

Multiple road closures have caused severe traffic delays, these include:

 - I-5 shutdown at Grapevine

- Pacific Coast Highway shutdown in Malibu Mudslide

  • What's Next?

Two more storms are forecasted to pass through. The first being expected to move swiftly starting late Tuesday. In addition, the heaviest storm will impact the west coast Wednesday and Thursday.

We ask all to remain alert when commuting and take all necessary precautions to have a safe week!

Water Emergency Do's and Don'ts

12/19/2018 (Permalink)

From Clean Water Source

DO:

  • Shut off the source of the water if possible or contact a qualified party to stop the water source.
  • Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building, when access to the power distribution panel is safe from electrical shock. 
  • Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting.
  • Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removing lamps and tabletop items. 
  • Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying. 
  • Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting. 
  • Remove to a safe, dry place any paintings, art objects, computers, documents and other materials that are valuable or sensitive to moisture. 
  • Use wooden clothespins to keep furniture skirting off damp floors. 
  • Hang draperies with coated hangers to avoid contact with wet carpeting or floors.

DON’T:

  • Enter rooms with standing water where electrical hazards may exist.
  • Enter affected areas if electrical outlets, switches, circuit breakers or electrical equipment are exposed to water.
  • Always avoid electrical shock hazards.
  • Leave books, newspapers, magazines or other colored items on wet carpets to cause staining.
  • Use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water, possibly causing electrical shock or damage to the vacuum cleaner.
  • Use TVs or other appliances while standing on wet carpets or floors, especially not on wet concrete floors.
  • Turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet or enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water. 

From Contaminated Water Source

DO:

  • Avoid all contact with sewage and items contaminated by sewage.
  • Wash your hands thoroughly after contact with contaminated items. 
  • If exposed to harmful waste, OSHA recommends a post-exposure medical evaluation. Consult your local health department or physician. 

DON’T:

  • Spread contaminated water by walking unnecessarily on damaged or wet areas.
  • Turn on the HVAC system if there is a possibility of spreading contaminated air. 
  • Use household fans to dry the structure and spread contaminants.
  • Use products for personal hygiene and cleanliness if exposed to the contaminated areas.

From Harmful Waste

Sewage, Blood-borne Pathogens, etc. 

DO:

  • Stay out of affected areas.
  • Call emergency service personnel if the situation is life-threatening. 
  • Treat all body fluids as if they are contaminated. 

DON’T:

  • Attempt cleanup of any kind.
  • Touch or handle items that might be contaminated with bodily fluids.

Water Damage Timeline

12/19/2018 (Permalink)

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Cerritos / Hawaiian Gardens provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays. Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home or business and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more. SERVPRO of Cerritos / Hawaiian Gardens arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Water Damage Timeline

Within Minutes

  • Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
  • Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
  • Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
  • Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.

Hours 1 - 24:

  • Drywall begins to swell and break down.
  • Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
  • Furniture begins to swell and crack.
  • Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
  • A musty odor appears.

48 Hours to 1 Week:

  • Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
  • Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
  • Metal begins to rust and corrode.
  • Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
  • Paint begins to blister.
  • Wood flooring swells and warps.
  • Serious biohazard contamination is possible.

More Than 1 Week:

  • Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
  • Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.

About SERVPRO of Cerritos / Hawaiian Gardens SERVPRO of Cerritos / Hawaiian Gardens 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. Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – SERVPRO of Cerritos / Hawaiian Gardens 562-916-7646

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