What Causes Southern California Wildfires?

5/10/2023 (Permalink)

Southern California wildfires are caused by a combination of natural and human factors. Natural causes include lightning strikes, which can ignite dry vegetation, and high winds, which can fan the flames and spread them quickly. Southern California is also prone to drought, which can create tinder-dry conditions that are ideal for wildfires to start and spread.

Human activities such as campfires, fireworks, and discarded cigarettes can also start wildfires. In addition, Southern California is home to many urban areas that are surrounded by wilderness, and the use of power tools or other machinery can inadvertently start fires.

Consequences of Southern California Wildfires

The consequences of Southern California wildfires can be devastating. They can destroy homes, businesses, and other infrastructure, and they can also have a significant impact on the environment. Wildfires can destroy habitats and ecosystems, leaving wildlife without food or shelter. The smoke from wildfires can also have serious health consequences, particularly for people with respiratory issues.

In addition to the immediate impact of wildfires, they can also have long-term effects on the economy and society. Rebuilding after a wildfire can be expensive and time-consuming, and the disruption to businesses and transportation can have a ripple effect throughout the region.

Prevention and Mitigation Measures

There are a variety of measures being taken to prevent and mitigate the impact of Southern California wildfires. One key strategy is to manage the landscape through controlled burns, which can remove excess vegetation and reduce the risk of wildfires. This is particularly important in areas where homes and businesses are close to wildland areas.

Another important strategy is to educate the public about the risks and how to prevent wildfires. This includes promoting safe campfire practices, properly disposing of cigarettes, and avoiding the use of power tools during high-risk periods. Firefighters and other emergency personnel are also working to improve their response times and coordination to more effectively contain wildfires when they do occur.

Finally, there is ongoing research into new technologies and techniques that can help prevent and mitigate the impact of Southern California wildfires. This includes using drones to map and monitor wildfire activity, developing new firefighting tools and equipment, and exploring the use of artificial intelligence and machine learning to predict and prevent wildfires.

Southern California wildfires are a complex and ongoing challenge, but there are many strategies being implemented to prevent and mitigate their impact. From landscape management and public education to technological innovation and improved emergency response, there is much that can be done to reduce the risk of wildfires and protect the people and ecosystems of Southern California. 

If your home or business is struck by Southern California wildfires, call SERVPRO of Fontana for an immediate response at (909) 357-4337.

What to Do When your Property Floods

9/14/2022 (Permalink)

Interior of homes floods and causes extensive damages

Flooding in your home or business can have a variety of sources, from heavy rainfall to plumbing issues and more. If your property is underwater, here are some of the best steps to take to remediate it. 

Stop the source

If possible, stop the source of the flooding from releasing any more water. Understandably, this won’t always be the first step - however, if you’re able to identify the source and prevent it from releasing any more water, you should do so. 

Turn Off Electricity

Electricity and water do not mix well. Turning off the electricity will make it much safer and easier for you, emergency crews, and repair teams to quickly assess the property and begin remediation and cleanup. 

Evacuate

Even if the water level doesn’t seem to be rising, there are several possibilities that could make the flooded property unsafe for you or others who live and work there. When your property is flooded, you should vacate as quickly as possible. 

Document Damages

As you begin the restoration process, having photos or other documentation of the event will come in very handy to you, your insurance company, and any remediation and cleanup companies you partner with. Continue to document the cleanup process and any structural damage or damage to your belongings. 

Our professionals at SERVPRO of Fontana are experts in water damage - large or small. You can count on us for an immediate response and timely remediation. Contact us today at (909) 357-4337. 

Top Services Offered by SERVPRO of Fontana

9/14/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Fontana service vehicle outside of local home

At SERVPRO of Fontana, we are a trusted leader in our community for restoration and cleaning services alike. 

Fire Damage

As Southern Californians, we are no strangers to wildfires and fire damage. When your home unexpectedly faces a fire, you have to deal with the after-effects of fire, smoke, and even water from fire fighting efforts. This can be an extremely stressful and difficult time for those who live or work at your property, but our pros are prepared to take some of the stress away with an immediate response and effective services.

Water Damage

Water damage is among the most frustrating damages that can occur at your commercial or residential property. Because it is extremely invasive, you will find that a sometimes small culprit can become a huge problem with extensive damage. Our team of professionals has the equipment and training necessary to identify the source of the water damage and resolve the problem quickly.

Storm Damage

Damages from severe storms can range from flood damage to mudslides to lightning strikes, hail, heavy wind, and more. If your property gets hit by severe weather, you need to take action immediately to ensure the safety of your property and to prevent any further damage.

Mold Remediation

Mold is not only foul smelling and unattractive, but it also poses health risks for people who are in and out of your property. If you suspect mold on your property, it is important to call on a team of professionals who are able to identify the type of mold and the best way to get it under control.

Cleaning Services

We offer a variety of cleaning and disinfection services for commercial and residential properties. If your home or business is in need of a routine deep cleaning or COVID sanitation, you can count on our pros for a quick response and a higher standard of clean.

Call now to find out for yourself why our clients continue to choose SERVPRO of Fontana.

Assessing Storm Damages from High Wind

9/13/2022 (Permalink)

Heavy winds cause tree to fall on house

High winds can be a number 1 culprit for some of the worst storm damages seen in and around Fontana, California. These powerful winds are known for their ability to knock down power lines and trees while breaking windows and causing property damage.

Before you begin to look at the damages on your property, make sure you take safety precautions and decide whether inspecting the damage is safe for you or if you need to contact professionals or emergency services.

After the winds have died down and you know that it is safe for you to gauge the damage, it is time to start thinking about your property’s recovery. Make sure to contact a local team of professionals who can help take care of the problem and help get your property back in its best shape.

When our dedicated team responds to storm and wind damage, we come prepared with our extensive knowledge, skills, and equipment. Upon arrival, we will identify all sources of damage and begin a cleanup and restoration plan to make it “Like it never happened.” 

You can count on us to ensure that the property is safe and free of any potential further damages caused by the wind from the store and other debris. Our goal is to give our community the best of the best services as quickly as possible. 

Is your home or business suffering damage from a recent severe storm or wind damage? Learn more. 

SERVPRO of Fontana: Serving Small Businesses in our Community

9/13/2022 (Permalink)

We love our local small businesses! As local small business owners ourselves, we strive to serve our community and provide only the best cleaning and restoration services. Here are just some of the small businesses we serve in our local communities.

Restaurants

Keeping your restaurant up to par with cleanliness and health codes can be a difficult task when coupled with the everyday challenges of running a successful eatery. In order to provide a safe and healthy environment and food, you must have top-of-the-line cleanliness and health standards from the kitchen tops, to the tables and floors, down to the door handles. Our professionals at SERVPRO of Fontana have the tools and experience necessary to provide you with the highest quality cleaning services to keep you up and running as a favorite local hot spot. 

Clothing Stores and Boutiques

The cleanliness of your store has a huge impact on how many customers come in the door and how they view the quality of your clothing and other merchandise. With our team of professionals, you can count on a quick response with little to no disruption to the everyday functionality of your business. You can count on us to use only the highest quality equipment and techniques to make your boutique clothing store a safe, healthy, and shiny local business attracting customers.

Grocery Stores

No one wants to buy food from a dirty grocery store.  As a grocery store owner, it is your duty to provide a safe and clean space for your community to purchase their necessities. A dirty environment can not only drive away customers but also create a variety of long-term issues with your store.

Salons and Barbershops

Salons and Barbershops are among the most difficult small businesses to maintain. With clients in and out at all times, it becomes difficult to deep clean and sanitize every chair, crevice, and handle. Professional commercial cleaning can help your business maintain a clean and fresh appearance while keeping your employees and customers safe.

Are you a small business owner in or near Fontana? These are only a few of the businesses we serve in our local communities. Learn more about how our commercial cleaning can keep your business running at its best.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned - Commercial Disinfection Services

9/12/2022 (Permalink)

As we continue our battle with COVID-19 we are constantly reminded of the importance of protecting those around us from covid, the flu, common colds, and other contagious illnesses. We have become much more aware of cleanliness and its importance for our health and others.

As a business owner, you have a responsibility to protect your employees and customers. While your regular janitorial staff is great for general cleanliness and housekeeping, it is important to consider regular disinfections and sanitization of your commercial property.

Often, business owners and homeowners alike neglect some of the highest contact surfaces when cleaning their properties. Door handles, technology, locks, levers, thermostats, and cabinets are only a few of the most commonly missed high-touch surfaces. This means that these services are always covered in germs while in between professional cleaning and disinfection services. 

SERVPRO of Fontana is known for Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, a new defensive pathogen cleaning program that surpasses all standard janitorial cleaning practices. With 50+ years of experience in decontamination, you can trust that our proactive viral pathogen cleaning will bring a much higher standard of cleaning to your commercial property. 

Is your Fontana commercial property due for a deep clean and disinfection? Call now at (909) 357-4337.

Common Causes of Commercial Water Damage

9/12/2022 (Permalink)

Water leaks through crack in pipes

Aside from severe weather and water damage from rainfall, there are many common causes of commercial water damage. When water damage strikes your commercial property, it is important to quickly identify the source in order to effectively remediate the problem and assess the damages. 

Top Culprits of Water Damage

Busted Pipes

It is very common for pipes to break and even burst. Water damage from pipes can be difficult to identify. Some signs that you have busted pipes in your commercial property include foul odors, water-like stains on ceilings and walls, and structural cracks in walls and flooring. 

Roof Damage

Roof damage is one of the more difficult culprits to determine. When the roof of your commercial property has been damaged, water can seep in from outside through even the smallest cracks and crevices and create extensive damages that can be very challenging to remediate. If you suspect water from roof damage, you want to take action as quickly as possible to avoid further structural damage.

Damaged HVAC System

HVAC system damage is among the most common causes of commercial water damage. Part of maintaining your HVAC system is regularly inspecting for any potential damages or health hazards. When your HVAC begins to wear out or is somehow damaged unexpectedly, water leakage can begin, rapidly spreading water throughout your property and posing new health risks. 

Window Damage

If any windows throughout your property are not sealing properly or are cracked and damaged in some way, you will likely be dealing with some water damage and spreading mold following your next rainstorm. While these damages are often the least extensive form of water damage, they still must be addressed in a timely manner.

As a business owner, you need a professional and reliable water damage remediation service to restore your property with as little disruption to the regular function of your regular business as possible. At SERVPRO of Fontana, we understand the importance of keeping your business open and running while water damage is remediated and the source is repaired. Call now at (909) 357-4337. 

Hurricane Kay: A Rare Southern California Tropical Storm Warning

9/12/2022 (Permalink)

Hurricane Kay (Photo by NASA via Getty Images)

Prior to Hurricane Kay, Southern California had only seen seven tropical cyclones or storms since 1850, with the most recent being Hurricane Nora in 1997. Because hurricane and tropical storm warnings are so rare for our region, many people were alarmed to get these notifications.

Hurricane Kay made landfall in Baja California Sur as a Category 2 Hurricane with damaging winds and heavy rainfall. As it continued on its path of destruction, it moved into Southern California unleashing winds over 100 mph and dumping over a year’s worth of rain.

Thanks to its historic rainfall and gale-force winds, damage from flooding and strong winds is to be expected. If your property is facing damages from recent heavy rainfall and unpredictable weather, you need a team of professionals who has the training and equipment necessary to make your property “like it never happened.”

Call our local team of professionals today at (909) 357-4337.

Southern California Peak Wildfire Season Arrives

9/12/2022 (Permalink)

Wildfire burns through Southern California

Despite recent heavy rainfall in Southern California from the remnants of Hurricane Kay, wildfire season is not over yet. Wildfire season in Southern California is known to be May through October, with many experts suggesting wildfire season is now year-round. 

While recent downpours may have slowed the spread of our vicious wildfires, they certainly did not stop them. Several wildfires continue to burn across the state with many in central and Southern California.

A common misconception about our wildfires is that the worst time of the season is during the heat of the summer. While we do see many fires during the summer, the peak of our season is typically September and October, which means we are just getting started. Dry winds combine with risk factors to make early-mid fall a dangerous and active time for wildfires, many of which are much stronger than those that occur in the summer months.

Historically, winter has brought an end to fire season thanks to cooler temperatures and rainy weather, however in recent years, fires have spread and left paths of destruction even in December and January.

As Southern Californians, we have all been impacted in some way by these monstrous wildfires. We are local experts who understand the importance of an immediate response and proper techniques to remediate damages caused by the California wildfires. Our team members are highly trained and use only the best equipment to meet the needs of our community. 

If you find yourself facing extensive damages from wildfires, smoke, or even water following firefighting efforts, contact us today at (909) 357-4337.

6 Reasons Community Leaders Recommend SERVPRO of Fontana

9/12/2022 (Permalink)

“My wife and I want to thank the team from SERVPRO of Fontana, starting from the project managers being very helpful and the three angels who were super helpful all the way around - Anthony, Albert, and Marcos. They went above and beyond to take care of our needs. They don’t have a ‘no’ in their vocabulary and are always willing to help us and make sure that we are happy and fully satisfied with the service. They asked questions to make sure we were okay and went the extra mile to make sure we were comfortable and happy while going through the tragedy of water flooding in our house. I want to thank the team! I appreciate everything they did. A big thank you from us.” - Peet B.

Immediate Response

More often than not, disaster strikes without warning. No warning means no time to prepare, leaving you in need of professional help as quickly as possible. At SERVPRO of Fontana, you can count on us for an immediate response 24 hours a day, seven days a week. We understand the importance of taking charge of the situation fast with effective techniques for long-term solutions following any disaster.

Exceptional Customer Service

We value each of our clients, big or small. We strive to provide the best customer service available because we understand the stress that comes with any disaster to your home or business. Our professionals work hard to make sure you are satisfied and receive nothing short of exceptional service to alleviate as much stress as possible.

Organized Every Step of the Way

Between our project managers, technicians, and everyone in between - you can count on us to set a higher standard of organized solutions. We go into every service with a strategy and plan to identify the source of a problem and resolve it quickly and effectively to prevent further damage.

State-Of-The-Art Equipment

Each of our technicians is highly trained in utilizing a variety of state-of-the-art tools and equipment to meet any remediation, repair, or cleaning needs. Restore your home or business with the best technicians and equipment available.

Highly Trained and Educated Technicians

Each of our team members has been extensively trained in identifying problems, their sources, and the most effective solutions to resolve problems, repair damages, and prevent further damages. We ensure that each and every one of our technicians has the skills and the tools to provide great services to commercial and residential properties - big or small. 

Faster to Any Disaster

We provide 24-hour emergency services to residents in Fontana, California and the surrounding neighborhoods and are dedicated to being “faster to any disaster.” Are you in need of emergency service? Call now at (909) 357-4337.