Happy New Year!

Wishing you healthy, peaceful and joyful New Year full of fun!

Refreshing a Pillow in 3 Easy Steps | Consumer Reports

Freshening up a tired pillow is simple to do. Just follow these tips from Consumer Reports' experts.

Merry Christmas!

May songs of joy fill your home with warmth and your heart with happiness this holiday season

How to be a Savvy Consumer

Learn some of the ways you can be a savvy consumer in this video

How to Avoid the Biggest Remodeling Mistakes | Consumer Reports

Consumer Reports surveyed more than 300 general contractors to find the missteps they see homeowners make. Here's their list, and some tips to help you sidestep those errors.

Home Restoration Services - Different Types, Services and Precautions

Restoration can be defined according to Webster's New Collegiate Dictionary (1975) as a process that is 'a bringing back to a former position or condition.' Restoration is a necessity for antique lovers, when it comes to preserve the beautiful framework, historical importance and aesthetics. Yet sometimes it is just an unavoidable process due to natural calamities or other damages. At times there can be some sentimental or traditional memories to be taken care of. But regardless the reason behind restoration, it is always the highest concern of both the restorer and the client to return back into the home's original shape and design.

Types of restoration services:

Three major types of damages affecting the homes can be mentioned, for which home restoration services are needed:

1. Water Damage restoration services

Water damages can range from natural catastrophe to simple faults in household contents, like floods, heavy rains, toilet overflow, plumbing leaks, dishwasher leakage etc. Whatever the reason is, it causes a great damage to homes and is often followed by molds.

2. Fire and Smoke Damage restoration services

Fire damages can take place due to heavy lightning strikes to simple candle fire, even smoking. It also includes faulty wires or electrical equipments, natural gases and fireworks. It is the most dangerous form of damages, as it can spread out so easily and frequently destroying even a whole city.

3. Mold Damage restoration services

Due to poor ventilation, high humidity and darkness molds start to grow at homes. Molds are also side-effects of water damages. And sometimes it occurs in a greater extent because of not taking it seriously at the very initial stage.

Steps in restoration services:

Whatsoever the damage type is, at first the restoration team will monitor the place thoroughly and after analyzing they will make a plan to execute. Then they will take necessary steps according to the damage type. Generally the steps include limiting the damage, draining out excessive water (if any), evaporating contents, helping family members in disinfection, odor treatment, cleaning up the residues and lastly decontaminating everything.

Precautions to be taken:

Both a huge amount of expenses and effort can be saved, if several precautions can be maintained. Using waterproof materials for household contents and raising the electrical systems' level can prevent the severe water damage. Incorrect cleaning and using defective electrical appliances should be avoided. Smoke alarms and fire exit doors should be planned for each and every house. Using organic materials and controlling moisture at home can prevent molds to grow.

Health hazards:

There are possibilities of being highly infected by these damages, especially molds. It can be allergic reactions, fungal infections, asthma problems and also inflammatory infections. So molds must be taken care of at the early stages.

Time plays a vital role in affecting the walls, roof tops, furniture, electronic appliances and everything else as a result of these damages. So it should be treated with high priority as soon as possible, as it spreads out fast with time. Also the right procedure and appropriate materials usage count regarding this. It is highly recommended to contact with home restoration professionals in all above cases. At the time of restoration process, some factors should be kept in mind with high priority, such as: using cheaper painting, mixing different types of materials, lack of knowledge etc. can even lower the durability.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Md._Mahmud_Ul_Haque/1727285

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Christmas Tree Fire Safety Tips from NFPA

Did you know, between 2007-2011 U.S. fire departments responded to an average of 230 home fires that started with Christmas trees per year? NFPA's Lisa Braxton has a few simple safety tips to consider this holiday to keep you and your family safe and sound.

Dealing With Disaster and Planning Restoration

Disaster can strike any commercial building or residence at anytime. Whether it is a storm that strikes or a fire that engulfs the building, disaster in any form is often severely damaging to the property, as well as to the people who live or reside inside it. However, for a quick and efficient recovery, restoration needs to be taken up in a professional manner, at the earliest possible time.

All across the US, there are thousands of commercial and residential buildings that fall prey to unforeseen disaster, like fire or water that infiltrates walls and floors, and floods the entire facility. If your home or office has suffered from mishaps like these, then you are at the receiving end of emotional trauma and financial loss. A water or fire disaster may lead to destruction of interior structural materials, furnishings, and electrical equipment and in the worst case, precious metals, jewels and cash. That is why, in the case of any sort of disaster, you need to gather your wits and focus on restoring as much as you can.

You need to act immediately to stabilize the loss and mitigate damage. Only then can you achieve the maximum recovery of items like furniture, carpeting, electronics, machinery and documents. Rapid action is needed to minimize replacement costs, as well as prevent the facility or home from getting exposed to further damage like mold. In most cases, restoration is best handled by professionals. They can carry out the entire task speedily and effectively. Add to that their trained crew who use the latest equipment, and you will see the logic behind hiring a restoration company as soon as damage occurs on your property.

However, when one does need to look up a disaster restoration company, they are often quite shaken up, even more so in the case of residential disasters. However, choosing a restoration company needs to be done very carefully as it is probably the one chance you get to fix whatever you can, post disaster. That is why we've listed below a few essential services that you must expect from a damage restoration and maintenance company.

• Providing The Solutions: The company must have skilled staff that can judge the amount of damage and determine what can be saved. They must also be able to recommend the equipment required for restoration, the process and the expected results of the same.

•Managing The Operation: The damage control company must be able to have a dedicated team that will be able to handle your case. They must also define a time period within which the restoration work will be completed with guaranteed results.

• Using The Latest Techniques: Whether it is to remove soot and clean the smoke laden walls after a fire,or dehumidification and drying of a facility post a flood or seepage, they must be able to limit indoor air quality problems and make the room/office/facility habitable quickly.

• Comprehensive Cleaning and Disinfecting: Post disaster, there are chances of allergies and infections due to remnants left behind. The company must sanitize, disinfect interior surfaces, and also eliminate contamination from mold, bacteria, mildew, and other potential biological hazards.

• Efficient Disposal and Minimal Demolition: The company must try to save as many items as it can. If however, certain portions have to be demolished, then that needs to be done in a cautious manner.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Mike_Ulwe/1190208

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Why Choose a Diamond Certified Company?

The mission of the Diamond Certified Resource is to define excellence and identify for consumers the highest quality companies in the Greater Bay Area. Only local companies independently rated Highest in Quality and Helpful Expertise earn Diamond Certified.

Tips for Rebuilding After the Recent Wildfires

CSLB is giving tips for those affected by the recent wildfires. It is important to take your time and do not rush into repairs.

Unscrupulous, unlicensed contractors often prey on victims of natural disasters. It is a felony to contract without a license in a declared disaster area. Consumers can protect themselves by using CSLB's resources to check a contractor's license status and history.

Santa Rosa Coffey Park Residents Form Group To Rebuild After Fire Devastation

A group of homeowners who lost everything in the wine country wildfires are forming a pseudo homeowners association to rebuild their Santa Rosa neighborhood. Emily Turner reports.

Fire Damage - Professional Restoration And Remodeling Services

It can be a scary and stressful situation when you have just experienced a fire at your home. You can hire a professional restoration and remodeling company to come out and clean up the entire area for you. They can also provide you with restoration and remodeling service if you need them. You can call and schedule a time for these professionals to come to your home for an evaluation. They will make suggestions of the best way to restore your home to its original condition. You may even take this time to completely remodel your home from what it used to be so you can start afresh.

If you have experienced a fire at your home, cleaning the fire damage on your own may cause additional damage. The smoke and soot that results from a fire can cause structural damage and damage to your belongings. The odors from the fire can linger on for years. Through the 24/7 emergency services you can receive from a professional restoration and remodeling company that uses well trained and informed technicians, you get a quick response, thorough clean up, and excellent remodeling. These restoration experts will address the problem appropriately and do their best to get your life and property back to normal.

Cleaning up after a fire requires special skills, training, proper equipment and cleaning materials. When you hire the professionals at a restoration and remodeling company to help you after a fire, you can prevent further damage from occurring on your premises. You can also prevent the occupants of your home from becoming injured due to structural damage. When you have an experienced fire restoration company come to your home after a disaster, you can expect services such as:

Water Cleanup: Professional technicians will remove water from the home due to the fire emergency and assist in cleanup.

Smoke Cleanup: The professional fire restoration technicians will clean the smell of fumes, smoke, fire residue throughout you home.

Remodeling service: This a provided service that allows you to get your home back on track with a chance to make some new changes

For reliable fire damage restoration services, hire a restoration and remodeling company that has a proven record of providing customers with excellent service. Through a thorough assessment of your premises, the professional fire restoration experts will customize a cleanup plan that is best for you. They will also make restoration services that will fit your lifestyle and your budget.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Aloysius_Aucoin/895926

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North Bay Wildlife Preserve Reopens For First Time Since Wine Country Wildfires

Cambi Brown reports on Safari West reopening for tours a month after wildfires scorched Wine Country

Happy Thanksgiving!

Feeling gratitude and not expressing it is like wrapping a present and not giving it. 

-William Arthur Ward

Top 3 Reasons to Get Help From Restoration Companies

Almost everywhere in America has some kind of natural disaster to deal with. Blizzards, occasional tornadoes, flooding and other bad weather events are inevitable depending on which region you are living in. Restoration companies can help if your home is damaged by these natural disasters. Fires, flood and even vandalism are also top causes of damage to private homes and commercial properties. Whether you need your own house fixed, or are a landlord who needs repair of a rental property, calling in professional services just makes good sense.

Top 3 Reasons to Get Help from Restoration Companies

While you could call a general contractor or builder after your property is damaged, hiring restoration companies is often the better option. There are lots of reasons to bring in the professionals who specialize in restoration after damage happens, but here are the top three reasons why you should always trust the experts:

1. Fixing damage can require both demolition and repairs. It is very different to rebuild after a disaster than to simply build from scratch or even to remodel. Fires, floods, and other natural disasters that cause damage can affect the foundation and stability of the building in unexpected ways. Problems can develop when things are destroyed by nature, rather than by an ordered demolition. Companies that specialize in restoration understand how to deal with the process of dealing with a destroyed home or property and fixing it to be as good as new. In many cases, your home or property will be even better than before after the rehab is done.

2. Damaged properties can have special hazards. When a property is destroyed or severely damaged, there may be many problems. Health risks can include exposure to asbestos if your building is older. The special hazards associated with rehabilitating and repairing a damaged building are not issues that every builder or contractor has the capacity to deal with. You want to make sure you trust a company that knows how to handle the issues that are unique to doing the repair work after a disaster.

3. Restoration companies are used to damaged spaces. You may want to rebuild your home or property exactly the way it was before the damage occurred, especially if you have an older home or a historic home. In other cases, you may want to go in a new direction and create something beautiful out of the damage that was done. Regardless of which option you choose, you need to work with professionals who can see the potential even in a damaged space. Professionals that specialize in restoration will be able to look around and help you to formulate a plan to get your space back the way you or your tenants prefer it to look.

These are three of many reasons why choosing to hire restoration companies is often the best choice. If your home or property has been damaged or destroyed, you need to rebuild as quickly as possible so you can move on with your life. Call in the professionals today to get your project underway.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Andrew_Stratton/83489

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/8912516

Calling in the Fire Damage Restoration Experts

A house fire, large or small, is a traumatic event and even if the fire was a relatively minor one there are some important steps to take to return to normal. One of the most important factors is to try to keep a level head so that your thinking is clear. Panic or rushed decisions might simply result in more damage on top of the initial fire damage.

A fire does more than simply burn the house and the items inside the house. A fire leaves behind smoke damage, soot and structural damage that must all be dealt with correctly. The most sensible course of action is to call in a fire damage restoration expert to deal with the restoration process properly.

Fire and smoke damage is a very particular problem and requires more work than simply washing down surfaces. Smoke gets deeply into hard surfaces such as walls and floors and if it's not treated quickly, will linger for many years no matter how often you clean them.

Soot can coat surfaces and belongings and must be carefully cleaned using the correct specialist equipment. Soot covered fabric such as lounge chairs, bedroom furnishings and clothes can all be restored if treated properly. But equally, taking the wrong approach can result in permanently damage being done.

Finally, structural damage must be assessed to determine how much repair work will be required and whether it is safe to stay in the house until repairs can be made.

A good fire damage restoration specialist will be capable of performing all of these important tasks, not to mention others such as organizing and carryout packing and storage of belongings and general damage assessment. The sooner a fire damage restoration expert is called in the more chance you can be sure you will save your belongings.

There are many tasks that can be performed while waiting for a fire and water damage restoration professional to arrive. Leaving it to the experts is the ultimate aim but taking matters into your own hands can also mitigate the damage with a lot to consider to get the most out of a fire damage cleanup.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Damo_Greenleaf/283211

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Top 6 Tips For Home Renovations

Are you going to do some home renovation projects? If so, you may be looking for a good professional. Given below are our top tips for you to get the renovations done without breaking the bank. Read on.

1. Set a Budget

It's important that you know what you can get for your budget. If you know how to price the required skills and material properly, you can save a lot of money. Yes, each builder is different and builders need to know what your expectations are.

You should get at least 3 quotes and don't go for the cheapest professional. Your selection should be based on the experience, personality and the reputation of the home renovation expert.

2. Make decisions in a timely fashion

You should make each decision before the work begins. Good builders will let you know about all the situations, but delays don't happen because of the decisions as to the situations.

Delays happen when the work stops because of something that is not available. For instance, if your faucet is late, your plumbers will stop working and you will have to give them a new schedule. So, make sure you get everything ready for the work.

3. Don't change your decisions too often

If you change your mind over and over again during the course of the project, problems will happen. Changing decisions frequently will not only add to the overall costs it will also delay the project. Therefore, you should change your mind only when you have no other option.

4. Buying materials

You may want to save money. You may think that the builder is going to give you a higher estimate of the cost of the materials and pass the additional cost onto you. In some cases, this may be true. But the point to keep in mind is that the builder may get the material at cheaper rates than you. So, you are going to pay the same price at the end.

5. Kids and pets

While the construction is going on, make sure you don't have kids around the workers. The workers may try to take care of the kids and pets while doing their chores; they are not supposed to do that. So, make sure you don't allow the kids to walk around the construction site.

6. Live somewhere else

The majority of homeowners don't pay attention to this rule. It's true that remodeling costs a great deal of money and the cost goes up when you decide to move to another house. If you can't afford to move to another house for the entire project, you can try to spend some time away from the home so that the workers could work comfortably.

So, these are some useful tips for you if you are going to start a renovation project for your home. Keep in mind that starting the work without a plan in place can cost you thousands of dollars later on. Therefore, make sure you have a plan before hiring a good builder for the renovation task.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Joseph_Celeste/1692433

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Your Local Fire and Water Damage Restoration Experts Can Help You in Your Time of Need

Fires and floods are the things of nightmares. Thankfully, your local fire and water restoration team will be there for you during every step of your recovery, from drying out soaked furniture to removing soot to remodeling your building.

No one ever thinks that fire or water could possibly ravage their home. It always seems like something that happens to someone else or an event that only would take place in a movie. In fact, even after it has happened, many people still feel as though they are in a movie, as if this horror couldn't possibly be happening.

Tragedies are hard enough to get through without having to worry about hiring many different professionals to help you get your life back on track. That's why your local damage restoration service professionals offer fire, water, and remodeling services--for your convenience and emotional ease.

Water damage

There are so many ways that water could enter your home. Through cracks in the basement walls, a burst pipe, a leaky roof, spray from putting out a fire...the list goes on. But in the end, water is water, and it can cause serious damages to your property and harbor unwanted visitors such as mold, mildew, and dangerous pathogens.

Your water damage restoration professionals will begin the process by first vacuuming all standing water from the premises. After it is determined which possessions and structures can be salvaged, the permanently damaged materials will be hauled away, and the drying process can begin. Using professional tools such as air scrubbers, air movers, and dehumidifiers, the restoration professional will make sure that all carpets, furniture, and other materials are completely dried. Then, the area will be disinfected and deodorized. If necessary, mold remediation processes can begin to quarantine any outbreaks of mold and prevent future occurrences.

Fire restoration

Fire restoration often involves many of the same initial steps as water damage restoration, as many times a copious amount of water was used by the firefighters in order to combat the blaze. After the premises are dried out and all unsalvageable areas are identified and removed, the fire restoration professional can begin removing ash, soot, and other fire byproducts. Then the remodeling can begin.
Your remodeling contractors can handle both interior and exterior remodeling and can make your home look as though tragedy had never struck. These professionals can:

• Install replacement windows
• Paint
• Perform framing and drywall work
• Install doors
• Install flooring
• Perform siding contractor work
• Replace electrical components
• And more!

Above all, your local water and fire damage restoration team with treat you with patience and compassion. After all, you've suffered unthinkable losses. It is time to grieve, and to rebuild. Your local restoration and remodeling team is here to help you.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rebecca_Paul

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North Bay Counties Move Towards Completing First Phase Of Fire Debris Removal

Jessica Flores reports on progress being made with with removal of toxic debris from fires as Napa County deadline looms (11-8-2017)

Who Saved Sonoma? A List

Sonoma's local first responders were the "first attack" battling the fires that began on Oct. 9.

According to Cal Fire officials, thanks to mutual aid agreements, more than 350 additional fire crews arrived in the county in the days that followed to help battle the Central LNU Complex fires as well as 772 National Guard troops and 4,300 PG&E workers. Community members had requested a complete list of the mutual aid first responders. The following is Cal Fire’s best accounting of the scope of assistance. To add crews to this list, email lorna.sheridan@sonomanews.com. To access a list of mailing addresses for most of these crews, visit Bit.ly/SonomaResponders.

See list HERE

Resources for Everyone Impacted by Sonoma Fires

Photo by Robbi Pengelly/Index-Tribune

As the wildfires that consumed an estimated 30 percent of the Valley raged, triage was all anyone could manage. Emergency responses to various emergency needs sprang from every quarter, seemingly, as locals opened their hearts, homes and wallets. Now, 16 days since the wildfires began, the response goal has turned to one of recovery.

Significant numbers of people are permanently displaced, continuing to need everything from transportation to shelter. Countless others have been adversely impacted in different ways, from work stoppages and slowdowns to contending with freezers full of spoiled food.

Below is a current list of ways to give and get help.

Recovery Entities

-- FEMA Legal Hotline: 415-575-3120

-- FEMA local assistance center at Hannah Boys Center, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. (17000 Arnold Drive)

-- FEMA local assistance center at Santa Rosa Press Democrat (427 Mendocino Ave, Santa Rosa)

PGE’s Recovery Net Program will reimburse individuals (with receipts) who lost food supplies after suffering at least 48 hours without power.

Facebook groups have created dedicated groups to assist victims without housing and other practical needs: “Keep them in Sonoma Valley,” “Keep them in Glen Ellen,” “Sonoma County Strong AKA Wine Country Strong” and “Sonoma Valley Curated Giving.”

Kivelstadt Cellars is hosting a free disaster recover seminar on Saturday, Oct. 28 from 1 to 3 p.m. (938-7001, 13750 Arnold Dr., kivelstadtcellars.com)

Local law enforcement has unscrupulous price-gougers on their radar, and citizens are encouraged to report unfair pricing of food, gas, housing and essentials. (800-952-5225, oag.ca.gov)

The Wildfire Legal Group is offering a free presentation at 4 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 28 and at 4:30 p.m. on Nov. 4 at the Moose Lodge on Broadway. Lawyers will be offering free legal information. wildfirelegalgroup.com

Shelter

NorCalFireResource.com consolidates rental listings in the area. Landlords and tenants can submit forms online. (norcalfireresource.com)

SHARE Sonoma County is arranging emergency home shares for displaced individuals. Hosts needed, as well as volunteers to answer phones. (1500 Petaluma Blvd. South, Petaluma, SHAREfire@petalumapeople.org)

El Pueblo Inn is offering discounted rooms ($129) to evacuees. (996-3651, elpuebloinn.com)

Airbnb has activated its Open Homes program and waved service fees; persons with spare rooms can register to become volunteer hosts. (airbnb.com)

California State Parks has opened coastal campsites to refugees at Bodega Dunes, Wrights Beach, and Salt Point. (parks.ca.gov/fireaide)

To help fire victims avoid scammers and facilitate rebuilding, BuildZoom has launched a free post-disaster service to vet contractors and other service providers. They’ve also complied a how-to list of resources for residents. (buildzoom.com)

Food

The Springs Food Pantry has been relocated to St. Leo’s Church. It will be open two days a week on Tuesdays, (starting Oct. 24) from 5 to 7 pm and Saturdays from Noon to 2 pm. Redwood Food Bank will be distributing “fire boxes” and additional food to people impacted by the fire. The pantry will operate as a drive-through. Donations of non-perishable food will be accepted at St. Leo's, storage space provided. Large donations will need to be coordinated with Greg Dipaulo, (609) 744-1877

Epicurean Connection is coordinating a “No Pay Café” at Sonoma Springs Community Hall, giving nearly 3000 meals away from 12-2 daily. Volunteers needed from 11-3. (18672 Sonoma Highway)

Redwood Empire Food Bank continues to need financial donations and non-perishable foods. (523-7900, 3990 Brickway Blvd, Santa Rosa, refb.org)

FISH is distributing groceries. (996-0111, 18330 Sonoma Highway, friendsinsonomahelping.org)

Non-perishables

Church Mouse is giving clothing and bedding away to fire victims at no cost. (996-5115, 16885 Sonoma Highway; 938-9797, 15 E. Napa St.) The Agua Caliente location seeks volunteers to help sort items.

Bon Marche Thrift Store is giving away clothing to fire victims and accepting donations. (933.9613, 19405 Riverside Dr., bonmarchethriftstores.org)

FISH has donated clothing, beddings and toiletries available at United Methodist Church (996-2151, 109 Patten Street, sonomaumc.com, friendsinsonomahelping.org) FISH has a donation center set up at the Methodist church on Patten St in Sonoma. They will be open this week: Wednesday, 11am-1pm and Thursday, 11am-3pm. Unfortunately they can’t accept donations here as they are out of space.

1345 Imola St., Napa, houses a storefront packed with donated clothing.

United Way is accepting non-perishable donations. (975 Corporate Center Parkway, suite 160, Santa Rosa, unitedway.org.)

Rotary of Sonoma has collected donated kitchenware for victims, and has “clean-up kits” available as well. (portal.clubrunner.ca)

Dexter Laundry and its local distributor, Western State Design (WSD) are sponsoring a Free Laundry Day from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Oct. 30, for residents affected by the recent wildfires. In Sonoma, at LAUNDERLAND at 201 West Napa Street. Owner: Diane Natenstedt, phone 394-5805

Financial Support

Redwood Credit Union will deploy 100% of donated funds directly to fire victims. (545-4000, P.O. Box 6104, Santa Rosa 95406, redwoodcu.org/NorthBayFireRelief). You can apply for an immediate $1,000 to assist with essentials such as rent, food, clothing and other personal necessities. If you live in Sonoma County, click here: https://www.unitedwaywinecountry.org/our-work/financial-stability/wildfire-relief-fund/ ALL administrative costs related to the fund are covered by Redwood Credit Union, so 100 percent of Fund donations are supporting fire survivors.

Stickers and T-shirts imprinted with the slogan “The Love in the Air is Thicker Than the Smoke,” with proceeds benefitting Dunbar Elementary School, has been organized by alum Denise Shadwell Draper. Customized orders okay. (ucaring.com/sonomavalleyfire2017, or (530) 228-4661)

GoFundMe has a list of verified fire relief crowdfunding campaigns.

United Way of the Wine Country is accepting donations. (unitedwaywinecountry.org)

The Sonoma County Resilience Fund is accepting donations. (sonomacf.org/sonoma-county-resilience-fund)

Salvation Army NorCal Wildfire Fund is accepting donations. (salvationarmyusa.org)

The Red Cross is accepting donations. (redcross.org)

Volunteer Center of Sonoma County is accepting both volunteers and financial support. (573-3399, info@volunteernow.org)

Services for Undocumented People

Graton Day Labor Center has established a fund to support undocumented families. (829-1864, 2981 Bowen St, Graton, 95444 gratondaylabor.org)

Exchange Bank is accepting cash donations for its Undocufund Fire Relief: PO Box 1100, Sebastopol, Ca. 95473

Fun

Halloween costume party/fundraiser with Modern Action performing live at The Reel Fish Shop & Grill, Saturday, October 28 at 8 p.m., $10 advance-$15 at the door. (343-0044, 401 Grove Street, thereelfishshop.com)

Sonoma Valley Historical Society wants your stories and photos, for The Sonoma Fire Project. (938-1762, 270 First St. West, sonomavalley.com)

Staples is offering free access to services, including printing, faxing, and computer work station time. (935-1466, 977 West Napa St.)

Sonoma Valley Museum of Art is free through the rest of the year. (939-7862, 551 Broadway, svma.org)

Music Nomad is offering to help any local musician who lost their guitar, ukulele, or banjo. Message them on Facebook.

Operation Bicycle is providing free bikes for people who lost theirs in the fire. (Sonoma Teen Services, 939-1452, 17440 Sonoma Highway, teenservicessonoma.org)

Sonoma Optometry is replacing eye glasses for anyone who lost theirs in the fire. (938-3937, 201 W. Napa, sonomaoptometrycenter.com)

Salon Novo is still offering complimentary shampoo and blow-dry. (703-9357)

Russian River Brewing Company will donate proceeds of Sonoma Pride beer and 2018 Pliney the Elder to fire victims. (545.2337, 725 Fourth Street, Santa Rosa, russianriverbrewing.com/sonomapride.com)

The Boisset Collection is crafting a special limited-edition red wine, with 100 percent of the proceeds donated to disaster relief funds. (boissetcollection.com)

Animals

Pets Lifeline is distributing goods collected by Rotary to care for pets. (996-4577, 19686 8th St. East, petslifeline.org)

Support for displaced or needy animals on Facebook: Napa/Santa Rosa Animal Evacuations Info; Solano County Horse/Livestock Fire Evacuation Help Page.

Napa County Animal Shelter and Adoption Center needs volunteers to clean and organize pens. (942 Hartle Ave, Napa,)

Jameson Rescue Ranch is connecting needy animals with foster shelters. (Deassa@JamesonRescueRanch.org)

Broccos Old Barn is accepting donations for displaced animals. (938-2291)

Pet Food Express will bathe your pets at no charge. (935-0777, 500 W. Napa St, petfoodexpress.com)

Article Source: http://www.sonomanews.com/news/7556682-181/resources-for-everyone-impacted-by?artslide=0

Halloween Safety Tips for Children

Planning ahead can help make this Halloween a fire-safe one. Taking simple fire safety precautions, like making sure fabrics for costumes and decorative materials are flame-resistant, can prevent fires.

Federal, State Crews Plan Cleanup of Hazardous Materials from Wildfire Burn Areas

First comes ridding the fire zones of obvious threats such as propane and gas tanks, asbestos and pesticides. But the process to give a site the all-clear is going to take a long time. Allen Martin reports.

New Chapter Begins for North Bay Victims of Wildfires

People who lost their homes in the Wine Country wildfires are being told they need to register with FEMA. Susie Steimle reports.

County Reminds Residents To Arrange Fire Clean-Up By Approved Contractors Due To Toxic Ash

Jessica Flores reports on Napa and Sonoma County officials warning returning residents about toxic ash from burned homes (10-19-2017)

Water Damage The Cleanup And Repair Procedure

Water damage can be quite disastrous as it can cause extreme damage to the building. During a flood many unwanted things can come into your home like sewage, debris, chemicals, mud and other types of contaminants. All these unwanted materials are dropped and left behind as the water recedes.

Even if the water damaged is caused from a source of clean water like bathtub overflow, an unattended faucet or a refrigerator water line break, the water mixes with the dirt and other substances on the floor and carpets of your home.

Shorted-out electrical systems, ruined carpets and soggy drywall are common after-effects of water damage, making the matter even worse. If the cleaning work is not done in a proper and swift manner, then the mold will likely sprout and cause more damage to your home.

Whatever the cause of the flood, you must ensure that the affected area is quarantined as soon as possible.

Safety Should Be Priority

Where there is water damage the safety of your family should be given high priority. Ensure that all the main power switches are turned off and are not in contact with the water. It's recommended that you should leave affected until the water is removed completely.

Stop the Water Flow

Once you are sure that the area is safe to enter again it's important that you stop the flow of the water. If the water is still flowing then of course any cleanup effort will go waste. You should shut down the water mains if the water damage occurred due to a mishap while plumbing.

If nature and weather conditions are the reason for the water damage then you will have no choice but wait for the conditions to improve. Damage can be minimized by doing emergency, quick repairs. Wherever it is possible try to limit the amount of water coming inside your house. You can use buckets, tarps, storm shutters, sandbags and other tools to limit the water flow.

Cleaning and Drying

Mopping and drying your home is very important. The sooner it's done, the better. If neglected, the water will soak into the carpets, walls and floors making it an ideal environment for mold to flourish. It's advisable that you use proper protective clothing like gloves and a breathing mask. This should be done to avoid spreading disease due water contaminated with sewage or chemicals.

Depending on the level of damage caused, you may need to remove the carpets or furniture. For insurance purposes be sure to list any goods you have to dispose of. You must clean all items in your home that have come into contact with water. Electronics devices might not work properly again so it's better if you replace them.

It is recommended that you hire professionals who are expert in handling all types of water damage. The professionals will use various tools and techniques to clean your house in the right way. If you are searching for professional expert in handling water damage repair.

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How To Keep Your Sanity While Remodeling - A Dos And Don'ts List

You have either experienced a nightmare remodeling or know someone who has. But don't let that deter you from creating your dream home. By simply following a few tips you can keep your hair and your sanity and have what you want.

1. Choose a contractor you feel comfortable with and who had genuine good reviews from clients. He should possess good communication skills as they will be invaluable throughout the process.

2. Have a plan: know what you want before you start. Whether remodeling a new bathroom, kitchen or basement, have an idea of what you want it to look like. Also don't forget the details that make life easier like enough electrical outlets, enough counter space or storage for your kitchen appliances.

3. The more details you start with the more time and money you will save in the long run. Realize that once you have a signed contract any changes you make can change the cost and timeframe. If you are not completely sure of those details, a good contractor with a lot of experience can help you figure them out.

4. Don't assume that the lowest bidder will do the best job. What appears to be saving money at the beginning can costs countless headaches and extra money in the long run. It is better to spend a bit more and be worry free ultimately.

5. Ensure that your contractor gives you a contract and timeline. If the contractor you are thinking of hiring is unwilling to give you a written agreement or commit to a time frame, it's time to look for someone else.

6. Make sure that your contractor is licensed and insured. While accidents and damage rarely happen it is a good thing to be prepared. You don't want to be left holding the bag if an unforeseen mishap occurs.

7. Your contractor should pull permits where they are required. Trying to cut corners by doing a job illegally spells trouble. Should a building inspector catch wind of a job being done without a permit, the job will be shut down and fines can be levied, and that in turns means more time and more money. It's simply not worth it.

8. Don't micromanage the job. If you hired the right contractor, he knows what he is doing and micromanaging him, or his crew, will cause aggravation and add time which all translates into more money being spent.

9. Remove valuable and breakable out of the construction zone. A construction zone is as the name implies, and not a space for a favorite vase or picture frame.

10. Seal off any entrance to other rooms from the construction zone with plastic sheeting and masking tape. While it is almost impossible to keep dust from traveling to other parts of the house, it is best to keep it to a minimum.

11. Make sure you do a final inspection. Walk through the job with your contractor and together you can put together a list of all minor details that have to be finished if needed.

12. Keep in mind that remodeling doesn't last forever and that soon or later the process will be over but your new space will be a source of enjoyment.

13. If your contractor did a good job (and if you chose right, he should) give him a good reference.

Remodeling can be an easy experience with a few simple rules

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North Bay High School Students Work to Save Animals from Wildfires

Schools in Napa may be closed but students at one high school are still coming together to use the property as a haven for hundreds of displaced animals. John Ramos reports.

Fire Safety - Have Two Ways Out

Plan and practice home fire drills at least twice a year. Make sure you know two ways out of each room.

Water Damage Restoration - In Fact, Water Damage is Downright Hazardous to Your Health!

When your home has water damage, be it from a burst pipe, overflowing sewer, leaking roof, or natural flood, it is in dire need of restoration. There's more to water damage restoration than simply mopping up and drying out the home. In fact, water damage is downright hazardous to your health!

First, if your home is flooded, the immediate danger is electrocution. In addition, structural damage to the building could cause injuries due to falling debris and unstable footings. The water itself may be carrying dangerous chemicals, raw sewage, or microorganisms that can make you sick.

Even when the home has been declared safe to enter, damage restoration isn't easy and is best left to a professional. Time is of the essence as well. The longer water soaks your home and belongings, the more damage occurs. Plus, mold starts to grow in moist environments making it essential to dry out the home ASAP. You can minimize losses and future damage by acting promptly.

What's involved in water damage restoration? Stabilizing the environment, cleaning, disinfecting, drying, and repairing.

Before you can begin cleaning up, you must stop the inflow of water. For example, if your damage is the result of a hole in the roof, you must secure the roof so that the water stops flowing inside. Likewise, if a burst pipe is shooting water into the house, turning off the water supply to the home is your first step followed by emergency repairs.

Other issues involve removing water-soaked insulation, determining if asbestos is present in water damaged walls or ceilings, and reinforcing damaged floors and ceilings. Opening windows and setting up a ventilation system such as fans is also an important step for stabilizing the environment. Depending on the nature of the flooding, this step may come after cleaning.

Next, standing water, mud, and debris must be removed. This cleaning step should be followed by disinfecting because rarely is water damage "clean." For example, floodwaters from swollen rivers carry fertilizer, sewage, chemicals, and other hazards. When the water recedes, not only is the residue left behind muddy and messy, it's dangerous. Disinfecting all surfaces is a must. Even if the damage is due to a broken washing machine hose, the clean water that spills soon mixes with the dirt and grime embedded deep within your carpet and carpet pad.

Once everything has been cleaned, dried, and disinfected, the water damage restoration job is not over. Now, it's time for repairs. You may need to replace or repair carpets, floorboards, baseboards, wallpaper, drywall, electrical systems, pipes, insulation, cabinets, and other building materials. In addition, the contents of your home may need to be repaired or replaced.

Cleaning up water damage is a major project requiring speed, expertise, safety precautions, equipment, cleaners, disinfectants, and reconstruction know-how. Don't do it on your own. Instead, water damage restoration companies are equipped to restore your home promptly and professionally. Let the experts handle the mess - they'll prevent further damage and dry out your home ASAP.

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Home Smoke Alarm Basics

NFPA's Sharon Gamache discusses the latest information on types of smoke alarms you need, their placement and special features. Working smoke alarms give you early warning to help you escape a fire.

Fire Damage and Odor Control for Your Home

When a fire happens in your home, the results can be devastating. Whether your kitchen blaze began due to a cooking mishap or because a candle overturned and devoured your living room in smoke and fire damage, the results left behind can be a true disaster. Learn how you can get the affected areas of your home back to original condition so you can return to living comfortably and productively.

Talk to Your Insurance Company

Your homeowners or rental insurance company should be able to help you find a specialist who can take care of the fire damage in your home. This specialist will likely want to enter your dwelling to take pictures of all the spaces that have been affected. You will want to take inventory of the items that have been burned, such as your curtains, stove, counters, furniture, and flooring. This way, your agent can reimburse you for the things that will need to be replaced. Contact your insurance company immediately so they can help you find reputable experts who can get your house back to its original level of comfort.

Professional Cleaning

When you hire a company to restore your residence after fire damage, they will want to assess how badly burned your living space is before they get to work. They need to know how many people will be required to complete the job and what tools they will need to get rid of odors and reconstruct your dwelling. These experts use special air-cleansing filters and chemical supplies to remove all odors in the air that affect your living space. They also take out all destroyed wood, cabinetry, and other construction and replace them with new parts so your home looks new again. When they are finished, your residence should look as if it had never been disturbed.

Preparing for Restoration

You and your family will need to find another location to live while the destroyed areas of your residence are being cleaned. Specialists may need a few days to repair any fire damage, especially if large areas have been consumed in flames. Prepare to evacuate your home by packing several bags of clothing, toiletries, and other necessities. Your homeowners or rental insurance company can help you find temporary lodging in a hotel so your family can live comfortably while you wait for your house to be cleaned. Be aware that there is no set time for when you will be able to move back in, so pack enough of your belongings to stay away for several weeks, as you likely won't be able to enter your premises until the specialists have finished in your home.

When you've been affected by fire damage in your residence, there are many professional companies that can help make things right again. Trust experts to help get rid of odors and put your place back in order so you can live comfortably again. With the right care, you should be back in your dwelling in just a few days or weeks.

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A Guide to Understanding Water Damage Restoration

Whether it is after a fire, burst pipes, or the result of a flood, your home must be restored from all the destruction caused by moisture. Water damage restoration will repair the house and make it safe to live in again. There are several steps to repairing your property after this type of devastation.

Assessing the Damage

The first step to repairing your home after any type of flooding is the loss assessment. This procedure is how the technicians know exactly what to do in order to repair your home. Technicians are required to work with insurance companies to determine property's injuries. Only then can a plan be devised on how to go about refurbishing it.

During the assessment, the water damage restoration company will assign one of three categories. Each of these categories signifies a different manner in which the devastation is handled and reversed. These categories are:

Category One: This is water without any contaminants such as urine or feces. The liquid comes from a clean source such as pipes or sinks. It may also come from toilets, as long as it was free of contaminants.

Category Two: The liquid comes from dishwashers, washing machines, or toilets with urine and has some minor contamination.

Category Three: The impairments are caused by an unsanitary source such as flooding, toilets with fecal matter, sewage lines, or has been standing for some time and may contain microbes.

Drying and Decontaminating the Area

Once a category has been set, the water damage restoration team can start the process of drying out the area. If the damage has been categorized as a two or a three, the area must also be decontaminated in order for the area to be livable again. It is important to understand that an entire house may not contain contaminated liquid. In some cases, it is only specific pockets of the space that must be decontaminated.

If the area is small and has little moisture absorbed into the surrounding materials, the process is much quicker. Dehumidifiers and blowers may be all that is required to restore the space to its natural state. However, a larger area with carpet or one that has deep saturation may require more equipment such as scrubbers and subfloor drying devices.

Finishing the Job

Of course, during the process, you should expect the technicians to be available on site during the duration. They must constantly monitor the equipment to ensure that the area is drying evenly. They should also verify that the entire site is completely dry before removing the dryers. The company should also be observing the area to spot any other problems that may arise once the water has been removed.

Water damage restoration is not something anyone wants to go through. However, with the right company and the proper equipment, your home can be restored to its former glory. When looking for the right group to handle the job, make sure you do your homework. Look at reviews and check out the Better Business Bureau to see if the business is accredited or has any outstanding complaints.

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Top Reasons To Contact A Water Damage Restoration Company

Water damage restoration companies know how to restore a structure after a flood or storm. They can help you if you have a flood because of a leaky pipe, plumbing problem, broken appliance, or a leaky roof. A flood can cause a myriad of problems. Here are the top reasons why people should turn to water damage restoration companies when tragedies strike.

Prevent Structural Damage And Mold

Water and excessive moisture can cause structural damage to a house, apartment, or building. That' why you need to hire a water damage restoration specialist. Leaving a serious mold problem untreated can also cause structural damage. Water damage and a mold problem can cost you thousands of dollars to fix, so make sure you hire a professional before it's too late. If you are not sure if you have a mold problem, a specialist can inspect your home and check this for you. After a rainy season, it is always a smart idea to get your home checked for mold, leaks, and other problems.

Professionals Have The Right Tools

The professionals have specialized equipment and all the right tools to get the job done. They use high-powered vacuums, drying equipment, professional cleaning supplies, and other high-tech equipment, and they will make sure the water gets extracted from your home quickly. They will also dry out your home and deodorize it when they are finished. You can contact a water damage restoration company if you need to extract water from your furniture, rugs, carpets, basement, bedrooms, kitchen, or living room. A professional will decide what kind of technique is needed based on your needs and situation.

Fixing Water Damage Can Be Dangerous

Please remember that water damage jobs should be left for the experienced professionals. If you aren't an experienced professional, you can hurt yourself or someone else. Don't take any risks when it comes to your safety and the safety of your family and pets and get the help that you need. The professionals are experts when it comes to water damage restoration and they will send a clean-up crew to your home, so you will feel good knowing that the job will be done quickly.

Prevent Damage To Your Home And Belongings

You can prevent permanent damage by contacting a professional right after you have a flood or emergency. Fixing water damage can cost you a lot of money, so don't procrastinate.

Get Rid Of Bad Odors

A reliable company will eliminate the bad odors from your home. Not only will they will extract the water, dry your home out, clean your furniture, rugs, and carpets, but they will also deodorize your home and make sure it smells clean and fresh when they are finished with the job.

Other Services These Companies Offer

these types of companies also offer other services including fire damage repair, air duct cleaning, wind damage repair, storm damage repair, smoke removal, odor removal, upholstery cleaning, duct cleaning, home inspections and things of that nature.

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Lost Power? What You Should Do | Consumer Reports

Use these tips from Consumer Reports experts to keep you and your family safe during a power outage.

Why You Should Repair Water Damage Quickly

It is an unfortunate reality that many people underestimate the potential damage water can cause with even limited exposure time. Chemistry teaches that water can be a base or an acid depending on environmental factors meaning that in high acid environments, water acts as a base and in low pH environments, water is slightly acidic. The mutable nature of water affords water the ability to carve through solid rock to create beautiful natural wonders but this same ability can also destroy drywall, plumbing materials, and other common building materials. This point, however, is often forgotten when people deal with water damage.

When dealing with water damage, many people simply focus on the top layer of water and neglect to do anything for the layers of water that have penetrated the subsurface or been absorbed in to the gypsum board (aka drywall and sheetrock) and sill plates usually due to the double whammy of they do not understand the risks and they do not have the proper extraction equipment. Wikipedia reports that gypsum board is "easily damaged by exposure to water" and "supports the growth of mold." While gypsum board is treated to make it more water resistant, should the gypsum board be punctured or should water, as in the case of water damage, collect around the unprotected area of the gypsum board, the porous gypsum board will then readily absorb and hold the water. The longer this absorbed water stays inside the gypsum board the more damage it causes.

Unlike fire damage that leaves a visible and generally static path of damage, water damage can be subtle and can manifest its destruction over a period of time. Opposed to the immediate destruction caused by fire, water, similar in many ways to stress, can slowly chip away at the host until it requires extensive repair at a cost that is MUCH higher and over an area MUCH larger than initial exposure would have been required to treat. The subtle nature of water is what causes water damage to be regularly underestimated and, therefore, undertreated in real world case scenarios.

Unfortunately, despite the best intention and valiant effort of many honorable do-it-yourselfers, their efforts are for naught as they simply lack the equipment needed for remediation and such equipment is not commonly available at your local rental shop. At best these people may have access to a commercial carpet cleaner which can effectively remove the top layer of water but does little to penetrate the subflooring or remove the absorbed water so they will stop when the area feels dry and will leave a fan on. This method is very similar to the method employed by remediation professionals in the infancy of the water restoration profession but this was soon sent to pasture as it was quickly shown to be ineffective, at best, and a catalyst for decomposition and mold growth, at worst.

The best way to combat water damage, and to prevent the short and long term devastation caused by water damage, is to call a professional water damage restoration company as soon as the damage is found. While the honorable do-it-yourselfer will have the unrelenting urge to break out their equipment and assist the professional water damage restoration company, the best way a do-it-yourselfer could assist the company is by disabling the source of the water damage (if possible), ensuring the area is free from electrical risks, and ensuring the affected area is free of debris and physical hazards (if possible) so that the professionals can extract the water as quickly as possible to minimize the restoration time.

Proper timing is essential for the fastest restoration. Now you know.

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How to Prepare Your Home for a Storm | Consumer Reports

Consumer Reports experts show you how to protect your home and belongings with simple tips from photographing your valuables to turning off your utilities.

Tips on Hiring a Contractor After a Flood Disaster

What type of contractor do I need to repair my flooded home?

If your home has been damaged by a flood, you may need to hire the services of professionals to mitigate the damages, handle any damaged personal property, or perform repairs. Typically, contractors who specialize in flood mitigation and repair are most familiar with the techniques and processes that this type of work requires. Contractors who specialize in flood damage remediation or "flood restoration contractors" understand the proper procedures necessary to restore and/or dry out a home or building and its contents. Some of the specialized equipment they may include: truck mounted and portable vacuums or water extractors, high velocity air movers, dehumidifiers, and moisture meters to monitor the drying process.

Residential home re-modelers or custom home builders may not have the experience that flood restoration contractors have in this field and may not have the expertise to properly mitigate the damage and/or prevent increased levels of microbial growth (mold). If mold becomes a concern, you may need to hire a certified industrial hygienist to test for mold and provide a restoration protocol or guidelines to mitigate any mold issues. Keep in mind that if you have insurance, your homeowners' insurance policy may have very little or no coverage for mold remediation, so contact your insurance company to find out if you have coverage and what your limits are. Mold remediation can be very expensive!

Usually after a flood, the restoration process will have three main components:

1. The first is the structural drying phase. This is where the water and moisture is removed along with any materials that cannot be saved such as warped or damaged flooring, baseboard, wet drywall, etc.
2. The second component is the handling of any personal property. This may entail packing up all of the contents of the home including clothing, furniture, or other items and storing and/or restoring them offsite until the structural repairs are completed. This phase also may require the creation of an inventory to document or list any personal property that may have been damaged beyond repair and that needs to be replaced.
3. The third phase in the restoration project is the structural repair. This entails the restoration of building elements that need to be repaired or replaced, including insulation, drywall, baseboards, cabinetry, flooring, painting, etc. In some cases a single restoration contractor may offer to perform all three phases or you may want to choose one company to handle the drying while other companies handle the contents and structural repair.

Before you sign a contract for flood remediation services, consider the following:
 

• Read every word of the contract and be sure you understand the terms and conditions.
• Review any fee schedule that details what the charges will be for labor and equipment.
• Get an estimate of what the drying process may cost before any work begins. Any costs or charges that your insurance company does not cover or pay for, you may be held personally responsible to pay.
• Obtain copies of certificates of general liability and workers compensation insurance and be sure the policies are current and in force.
• Obtain copies of any Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) if the contractor intends to use any chemicals, anti-microbial agents, or other substances in your home that could cause adverse health effects.
• Check references and affiliations with trade organizations and the Better Business Bureau.
• Photograph and document your home, its contents, and the extent of any damages prior to anything being done or moved.

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What Are the Steps Involved in Water or Flood Damage Restoration Work?

When it comes to water damage, the major issue is that you usually can't see the full extent of the problem with the naked eye. This is where a professional water or flood disaster restoration team comes in. With their specialized tools, equipment, and knowledge, these experts will be able to properly assess the situation, fully dry and restore your home, and check in afterward to make sure the restoration is complete. That means that you don't have to worry about lingering dampness, mold, or bacteria growth. Instead, you can get back to enjoying your home in comfort.

If you've experienced water damage in your home and you call on a water and flood restoration service for assistance, the first thing they will do is to perform a moisture assessment. Your restoration company will determine the location or source of the moisture and the extent of the area affected. This part of the process ensures that all the damage is taken into account--even the parts not visible--before the restoration process begins. Once the assessment has been made, your restoration professionals will use specialized equipment to remove standing water, complete drying with air movement, and clean any carpeting thoroughly. With these different steps, your restoration professionals will be able to totally dry your home and sanitize the area.

After the core drying out work comes the most important part of the water damage restoration process: the follow-up. Water damage is a very difficult problem to deal with because it can be so hidden. Even if you get the most thorough flood or water damage remediation company in to take care of the problem, it's possible that there will be a lingering issue or dampness somewhere. However, most restoration professionals offer follow-up services because they know of this potential. After completing the restoration and drying work, and depending on the severity of the damage, they will either come back for a post-job assessment, or you can call them if you notice any issues. This crucial stage in the restoration process should not be skipped. If there's any chance that some dampness may have gone untreated, get it taken care of immediately so that it doesn't lead to more serious issues down the line.

Experiencing flood or water damage in your home is unpleasant, but it does not have to be an impossible situation. With assessment, restoration, and follow-up services provided by a professional water restoration company, you can get your home back to normal in no time.

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Advantages For Anyone That Hires A Water Damage Repair Company

Are you looking to hire a water damage repair company, but can't decide if this is the wisest choice? There are many advantages that you have to be aware of that will allow you to make the smart choice easily.

These advantages are for anyone that has ever had water damage in their home. Below are the most important ones to know about.

1. Experience - These companies have experience with cleaning up damage caused by water. This ensures that the cleanup will be done right, so there are not more problems that occur later on.

If you don't know what you are doing, then cleaning up water can be hard to do correctly. It is not just about cleaning up the water and damage that can be seen.

2. Prevent other problems from occurring - Water can cause problems with the foundation of your home if it is left and not cleaned up. Plus, mold and other problems can happen, but with the help of the professionals, this will be prevented.

You want to avoid water being left behind and you definitely don't want water in the places that it can't be easily seen. This can lead to an unhealthy home environment for your family due to mold that will grow because of the water not cleaned up.

3. Save money - Most people don't realize that you can save money when you hire a water repair company. The reason this is possible is because they already have the equipment and other things needed to help them do the clean up correctly.

This is something that you would have to take time to find, rent and then go pick up before you can get the job done. Plus, getting all that may be needed for fixing the problem will not be cheap.

The cost for smaller damages will be cheaper, but the larger ones won't be. If you are like most people these days, saving money is definitely going to be a big advantage for anyone.

4. Saves time - Time will be saved also because you won't have to run all over town to find what you need to do the clean up right. Plus, the specialists will be able to do it faster since they have equipment and experience.

Now that you understand these advantages to hiring a water damage repair company, you just need to decide if this is the right decision for you. You can do the cleanup yourself, but be sure you learn how to do it right or you will end up with other problems that you don't need or want.

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Don't Let a Renovation Demolish Your Relationship | Consumer Reports

Renovations can be stressful, especially on your relationships. Stay focused on what's important. Keep the lines of communication open with your partner. Consumer Reports' recommends learning from a smaller project before tackling a large renovation.

Professional Fire Restoration - Recovering From Fire Loss

A house fire can be one of the most stressful times in your life. Once the fire is out and the emergency response teams have left the scene, you're left with a huge charred and soggy mess. But did you know that a house fire doesn't have to mean a total loss? Even if your belongings are seriously water-logged, smoke damaged, or singed, many of them can be recovered through professional fire restoration.

Many professional cleaning services offer fire restoration in addition to their carpet and furniture cleaning services. They use a combination of drying and cleaning processes to minimize your losses and salvage your belongings from the fire. If your family has been struck by the tragedy of a house fire, or if you just want to be prepared in case disaster ever arrives, keep reading to learn more about the process.

Water Removal

The first step in the fire restoration process is removing the water left from putting the fire out. On top of the damage of smoke, soot, and char, water can cause additional deterioration and foster mold growth. It's important to start the drying process as soon as possible to diminish the possibility of further damage and achieve the most successful restoration results.

The water removal typically consists of two stages: manual water extraction and supplementary drying. The initial stage involves using a high-powered wet vacuum to suck as much water as possible out of your building and belongings. This is followed up with dehumidification and ventilation using carpet fans and commercial dehumidifiers to dry remaining moisture out of the walls, floors, and room contents.

Fire Restoration

Once the water has been completely removed, the fire clean-up professionals can move on to the fire damage itself. The first step is a thorough evaluation of the extent of the damage and an inventory of items to be restored. Then a series of deodorizers and soot and smoke cleaners are used to wash away all traces of the fire. In fact, this process can save sodden documents, sooty furniture, and even electronics or industrial equipment. When the restoration is complete, both your building and all of your salvageable belongings should be returned to their original condition!

Fire Restoration Professionals

Professionals are typically very understanding of your sad situation and treat your damaged goods with the utmost respect and care. They work to bring you light in the midst of disaster and restore your belongings as soon as possible. Some services even offer express cleaning of vital documents or your child's special toy to ease your stress and discomfort. You can trust these professionals to restore as much of your home and belongings as possible and get you back in your home as quickly as they can.

Fire restoration services are available in most areas as part of professional cleaning companies. Hopefully you will never need a restoration professional, but if you do, they can help make an awful situation much better by saving your personal effects and preventing a total loss.

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