4 Outstanding Children's Books About Safety for Families

Posted on: 04/24/2012

We all know how much joy, love and fun a house full of children can be—but they also get into (and create!) messes at an astounding rate! Even when your whole property is meticulously childproofed, any parent can tell you you’re never totally in the clear. Fatal injuries in the home are still a leading cause of death in the U.S. Yes, maybe teaching your children the basics of home safety is a huge bore, but we here at Paul Davis still think your family’s safety is our number one priority…boring or not! To that end, we’ve compiled a list of four outstanding children’s books to educate your little ones! Here’s how families in the Northeast can turn their kids into experts and budding scientists about home safety, thunderstorms, emergency preparedness and more.

Teaching kids the home safety basics

1. Claire Llewellyn’s Watch Out! At Home is a great way to start kids on the path to home safety awareness. With cartoon illustrations and short, informative passages, it’s appealing to elementary-aged kids while teaching them to avoid the stove, electrical appliances, sharp objects and to generally turn them into home safety crusaders!

The wild world outdoors

2. Kids who live in Northeast may be used to thunderstorms, especially when summer heat waves roll around, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t afraid of them! Help lessen their fear with Flash, Crash, Rumble and Roll, by Franklyn M. Branley. The beautifully-illustrated book teaches new readers all about thunderstorms, how to perform your own weather experiments, and, of course, thunderstorm safety.

3. In big East Coast cities, outdoor family-friendly gatherings are abundant and more and more people include their furry family members in on the fun. To keep your child safe around dogs, check out Be A Dog’s Best Friend: A Safety Guide for Kids by Renee Payne. It’s told in the voice of 10-year-old Ema, who shares her knowledge of how to safely play with dogs you do know, steer clear of those you don’t and how to safely approach a new dog. With playful illustrations and lists of dos and don’ts, this fun read will ensure your kid’s next encounter with a dog is full of big, wet, happy kisses

Emergency preparedness

4. Once your child is old enough to stay home alone, a whole new realm of safety issue opens up! Dottie Raymer’s A Smart Girl’s Guide to Staying Home Alone teaches older children the basics of staying home without you, including invaluable safety tips and quizzes designed to get them thinking about emergency situations ahead of time. The book also delves into basic first-aid, which can come in handy in the event of a blizzard or flood.

Paul Davis Restoration of Central Massachusetts is available 24/7 for your emergency needs.

Call Paul: (508)-791-6700

Mythical Ways to Predict a Storm (and How the Experts Really Do It)

Posted on: 04/18/2012

Sometimes it’s easy to predict an incoming storm—all you have to do is look outside and see the first dark clouds gathering in the distance. But, as East Coasters know, Nor’easters can appear out of a week of perfect skies and mild temperatures. Preparation is key to staying safe in a storm, and at Paul Davis Restoration of Central Massachusetts, we are invested in the safety of you and your family. The sooner you know a storm is on its way, the sooner you can take the necessary precautions to protect you, your family and your home. Take a look at our list of how centuries of people have predicted the weather—and how today’s experts really do it!

6 Mythical Ways to Predict a Storm:

MYTH: If a dog starts to whine for no reason, you can expect a major storm.

Before computers, radars, televisions and radios, our ancestors relied on their furry buddies to help warn them of incoming disasters. Many of their predictions were based on an ever-present barometer, their animal’s nose—they thought that if Fido was wailing, a large storm was on its way.

MYTH: Cats predict windstorms by scratching a post and predict snow by sitting with their back to the fire.

Farmers used to believe that a cat turned away from the fire was the most telling sign that a Nor’easter was near. Good old Patches also could warn them of windstorms (if she was scratching a post) or rainstorms (if she was washing her face).

MYTH: If a cat licks its fur against the grain, a hailstorm is coming….

Before radars existed, sailors brought cats on board to help predict the weather (and to chase the rats that made their way into the sailors’ food supplies!). Hail was on the way if the cat licked its fur against the grain. If the cat sneezed, the sailors knew to prepare for rain, and if a cat was acting frisky, a windstorm was brewing!

MYTH: If the anthill is closed, a thunderstorm is on the way.

During the Zhou Dynasty (1046-256 BC) in China, people perfected the art of weather prediction via animals. But they weren’t drawing conclusions from cats and dogs—they were using insects! According to this proverb, a closed anthill indicated a thunderstorm in the near future.

MYTH: Aching knees predict a storm.

How many times has your grandma claimed to predict an incoming storm—rain, snow or even a blizzard—with her aching knees? Research has shown that a change in barometric pressure can cause joint pain, so while grandma’s predictions certainly aren’t scientifically accurate, there may be some truth in those sore knees!

MYTH: A ring around the moon means rain or snow is coming.

An old folk legend states that if you see a ring around the moon, you can predict rain or snow. Unfortunately, the ring around the moon is an optical illusion—you’re actually seeing diffracted light rays hitting ice crystals in our own atmosphere. So while the ring may indicate that a storm is on the way to the East Coast, you’re better off checking the radar to make a firm prediction!

How the Experts Really Do Predict Northeast Storms:

No cats, ants or knees here—today, meteorologists predict the weather using radar, satellite and light detection (LIDAR) technology. With these devices, meteorologists can see large air masses and where they’re forming over the earth. Because air masses typically move quite predictably, scientists can predict weather patterns and types fairly accurately. It’s when they try to predict specific storms that things get a little less certain.

Blizzards

East Coasters will be the first to tell you that blizzard prediction is an inexact science! Blizzards depend on the arrival of a cold front in conjunction with moisture and low atmospheric pressures. While satellites and radars can predict these weather patterns a few weeks in advance, those patterns can change very quickly. Things are literally “up in the air” when these systems can either create a blizzard or bring in a warm front instead!

Hurricanes

As those who live on the Eastern Seaboard know, hurricanes have a “season” from June to November. Each April, meteorologists can predict the number of storms that will form in the coming season, their paths and their severity using statistical data. Once a hurricane forms, meteorologists can see it on radars within three to five days of it forming, giving them a small lead-time to create a watch and warn citizens. Of course, a hurricane’s intensity and path can never be predicted to total accuracy—there is no certainty with a hurricane until it’s too late. If there’s a hurricane watch in your neighborhood, be sure to have your emergency kit ready and an evacuation plan in place in case you need to get out of nature’s path!

Paul Davis Restoration of Central Massachusetts is available 24/7 for emergency needs.

Call Paul: 508-791-6700

Fastest Ways to Prep for a Spring Storm

Posted on: 04/11/2012

March comes in like a lion, but it doesn’t really go out like a lamb. Instead, the spring storms that arrive during this time of year depart like St. Patrick’s Day revelers who’ve had too much green beer—it can get a little messy. Since your house is just waking up from a long winter nap, right now it needs extra TLC. Below you’ll find some of the fastest, easiest ways you can get your property ready for the spring storm season. Some of these fixes are DIY projects while others may require professional assistance. Rest assured that Paul Davis Restoration of Central Massachusetts is here to help give your home a springtime makeover in preparation for the boisterous weather ahead.

Things That Go Boom in the Night

With thunderstorms, it’s not really the thunder that gets you—it’s the rain. The Northeast may not have as many thunderstorms as the Midwest, but we aren’t exempt from copious downpours in the spring. Warm, moisture-laden air travels over most of the country at this time of year, bringing much needed water to freshly sprouting vegetation. You’ll enjoy those May flowers. In the meantime, you may not enjoy the flooding and mold problems that happen when rain is too much of a good thing.

What to Do:

· Clean out your gutters and check them for leaks. Don’t forget to check the downspouts for hidden clogs. Use a garden hose sprayer and a plumber’s snake to unblock downspouts if necessary.

· Consider grading your lawn and installing French drains to direct water away from your foundation and prevent water from pooling in your yard.

· If you have a basement, ensure that the sump pump has a backup power source. Otherwise, it won’t do you any good during a thunderstorm accompanied by a power outage. Installing a backup sump pump is also a good idea. You might even install one with an alarm that lets you know when the basement is flooding. These days, alarm messages can even be sent to your phone!

When Blizzards are Late to the Party

That final snowstorm can arrive even when all signs point to spring. In fact, the “Storm of the Century” in 1993 hit the entire eastern seaboard with unprecedented snowfall in the month of March. The East Coast can expect a final snow in March or even April before Jack Frost hangs up his hat for the year.

What to Do:

· Close the screen door on your front door and your sliding glass door. This provides you with a bit of a buffer if snow piles up against the doors. You can open the inner door to check things out without a heap of snow falling inside.

· Pre-treat sidewalks and walkways with de-icing products and sand. This can help break up potential accumulation in areas you may need to access to check for water and ice damage after the snowstorm. It’s also a great way to use up any leftover de-icer in your garage!

· Have any leftover snow from previous storms removed from your roof in preparation for a spring blizzard. Snow removal reduces the total load of snow on your roof and lessens the chance of collapse. This is especially necessary for spring snow because it tends to be particularly heavy and wet.

With Hailstones Like These, Who Needs Golf Balls?

Hail is something every Northeastern homeowner dreads, but it’s also a concern for the eastern seaboard as well. These storms are often accompanied by lightning and high winds. It’s like Nature is pitching a fit—when it all starts hitting the roof it’s not a pretty sight.

What to Do:

· Close your blinds, shades or curtains. Fasten these window coverings to the windowsill or wall with tape or tacks. That way, if hail does break a window, the glass won’t be blown throughout the room.

· Stock up on some plywood and plastic sheeting so you can immediately patch up damaged windows and prevent rain from getting inside your house.

· Use thick blankets to protect vehicles and other property that can’t be put under a carport or in the garage. This may reduce the impact of hail enough to avoid paint damage and minor dents.

· If the hail is severe and large (at least ¾” in diameter), go ahead and call a roofing restoration specialist while you wait it out. That way, you can be one of the first clients on the list for damage assessment and repairs after the storm.

Everyone Knows It’s Windy

High spring winds are common in the Northeast as the weather warms up. Knowing that you’ve done what you can to keep your house from being totally trashed can help you ride out these wind disasters.

What to Do:

· Consider protecting your home with roof tie-down clips. These clips anchor the roof deck to the frame of your house to make the whole structure stronger. Unlike many other roof upgrades, they don’t require extensive retrofitting.

· Install storm shutters and wind resistant doors. These can be helpful in protecting against wind, keeping out water and preventing damage from tornadoes that are accompanied by hail.

· Add a vertical bracing system to your garage door. This type of system takes only a few minutes to put in place (after initial installation) so you can prep your garage at a moment’s notice.

· Prune trees so that the branches are a safe distance away from the roof or other structures around the house. Branches scraping across the roof can do a lot of damage to shingles and flashing. Broken limbs falling on your roof can cause an instant leak.

· If a piece of yard furniture is light enough for you to lift it, high winds can probably pick it up too. Store loose furniture, toys, decorations, lawn equipment, and other items in a garage or shed. Offer to help neighbors move their lawn furniture too since windstorms don’t respect property lines!

Paul Davis Restoration of Worcester, MA serves Central Massachusetts, and offers 24/7 availability for emergency needs. Call Paul! (508)-791-6700 or 866-DRY-MASS.

5 Worst Area Mudslides and Other Wet Weather Disasters

Posted on: 03/23/2012

Have you ever seen video images of a mudslide in action? The power of all that wet soil bearing down on houses and other buildings is immense. Mudslides in the Northeast affect homes in several significant ways: structural damage to the foundation and load bearing walls from the weight of the mud, water damage from related flooding and infiltration with bacteria and sludge from broken sewer lines in the affected area. At Paul Davis Restoration of Central Massachusetts, we have experience restoring all of the types of damage your home may sustain in a mudslide. We want you to know that you can pull through disasters like this with help from our experienced and compassionate restoration professionals.

The primary danger areas for mudslides and flooding in the U.S. are along the West Coast. However, that doesn’t mean Massachusetts residents are out of the clear. This danger can occur anywhere there is steep terrain or unstable soil, which is common throughout the East Coast.

Most landslide or mudslide events are precipitated by heavy rainfall events. They can also be associated with other natural disasters such as snowmelt from unusually heavy winters. A broken dam or levee can also inundate small cities and towns with muddy water.

1. The Johnstown, Pennsylvania Flood of 1889 was the result of a dam giving way. It burst at its sides and lurched forward under extreme heavy rainfall. In addition to 17 million dollars* of damage, it killed an estimated 2,200 people. Man-made dams are common throughout the U.S. If you live near one, be sure that your city is diligent about regularly inspecting and maintaining it for safety.

2. In Haverstraw, New York on January 9th 1906, 22 people were killed when a large landslide buried eight houses. Haverstraw, then the brick-making capital of the world, was experiencing a crisis as the blue clay beneath the village was being mined faster than the city could sustain. Cracks that began forming along Rockland Street were ignored by enterprising brick-makers. Finally, on January 9th, a series of three landslides hit the city, killing people and swallowing roughly a third of the village and setting buildings ablaze by knocked over kerosene lamps. Thankfully, the East Coast isn’t prone to these types of large-scale loose soil dramatics. Haverstraw is a good reminder to homeowners however, that ignoring cracks and other signs of wear and tear around your home is a disaster waiting to happen.

3. When it rains, it pours…sometimes for 40 continuous days! In the fall of 2011, Hurricane Irene and Tropical Storm Lee left eastern Virginia, southern New York and western New England showered with more than 300% of normal rainfall. Eastern Pennsylvania, northern New Jersey and southeastern New York were also swimming in more than 500% of normal! This super soaker not only caused record breaking floods throughout the region, the Mountain Lake community in Liberty Township, New Jersey, experienced a mudslide that swallowed cars and homes 30 feet into the ground. While this event was, indeed, “out of the norm,” weatherproofing your property in advance can give you peace of mind and make all the difference in an unexpected or prolonged weather-related event.

4. The spring of 2007 came in with a roar when a devastating storm pounded the Northeast causing property damage of every variety throughout the region including snowstorms, windstorms, rainstorms and flooding. From New York, to North Carolina to Maine, the storm left nearly 700,000 homes and businesses without power, massive flooding left refrigerators and cars floating down rivers, mudslides and fallen trees blocked roads from Kentucky to New England. A well maintained home is one that’s prepared for several different kinds of weather events—you never know when one will hit, only to trigger another!

5. An unnamed 1938 Hurricane hit the Eastern seaboard of the U.S. and killed 494 people in associated floods. It caused 306 million dollars* in damages.

The scope of these disasters makes them difficult for any community (or even the federal government) to manage. This is one good reason to have our number. That way, when a mudslide or wet weather disaster strikes, you can call someone who cares and start restoring your home as soon as possible.

*All dollars are unadjusted unless otherwise noted.

Paul Davis Restoration of Central Massachusetts is available 24/7 for emergency needs.

Call Paul: (508)-791-6700

7 Ways Your Home Can Be Infiltrated in a Storm

Posted on: 03/01/2012

Your home is supposed to be a sanctuary – a shelter in the storm. But all too often a snowstorm or other severe weather event can penetrate that sanctuary. At Paul Davis Restoration of Central Massachusetts, we’ve seen even sturdy, well-maintained properties sustain serious damage as a result of stormy weather. And once a home is opened to the elements, things rapidly get worse. That’s why it’s so important to repair storm-related damage ASAP. Here’s a list of the most common ways your home can be infiltrated by the outside world in a storm…and what to do about it!

1. Busted Pipes

If you live in Massachusetts or other northern states, you probably know what it’s like to have a blizzard bust your pipes. It’s too darn cold to air out the house and you can’t necessarily get a plumber to your home in the middle of a snowstorm. The best you can do is turn off the water and try to soak up any standing puddles. Areas of carpeting are at special risk since they absorb water into the carpet fibers and padding. If the pipe bursts inside a wall, that’s even worse since you can do little to remedy the situation. A plumber can fix the leak, but that doesn’t repair the water damage that has already been done. That’s why it’s so important to call a restoration firm as well as a plumber after a pipe leak.

2. Scared Rodents

People and pets aren’t the only ones seeking a safe place to hide in a hurricane or a blizzard. Birds that haven’t flown south and mammals not hibernating may all be looking for ways into your home during a storm. An improperly maintained chimney or a missing fascia vent is all they need to infiltrate your attic. Once they move down into your walls, you’re in real trouble. The sooner you get them cleared out (along with their droppings and nesting materials), the better. Remember, these critters are just as comfortable in a big city like Boston as they are in a rural area. So, don’t assume you’re home is safe from vermin just because it’s in an urban area.

3. Clogged Gutters

As winter wanes you may have periods of warm weather. Of course, it could be followed by cold weather! The cycle of warm-cold-warm-cold can cause ice dams. Ice dams are formed when melting ice clogs up gutters and then refreezes when the weather turns cold. Any excess water that melts behind the dams has nowhere to go and backs up under shingles, into attics and walls. To prevent ice dams make sure your gutters are clean of leaves and twigs. If safe, remove any snow and ice from them before they cause damage.

4. Falling Trees

In a windstorm or blizzard, trees are often unavoidable casualties. Spruces, oaks, maples and cedar trees abound in the Northeast, and a heavy tree limb or an entire uprooted sapling can pierce through a roof with enough force to reach all the way into the attic. Even smaller branches can damage shingles – leading to insidious leaks that develop slowly over time. Either way, you can end up with mold in your attic insulation. Limit your home’s risk of tree damage by keeping branches trimmed at least 3 feet away from your roof.

5. Broken Windows

You may have heard that the sudden drop in air pressure during a hurricane (like those common in South Carolina) can cause windows to explode. That’s a dramatic idea, but flying debris is the usual culprit when your windows end up broken in a storm. Golf ball-sized hail that’s driven sideways by the wind can also crack your windows. Even if a window isn’t broken, the seal around the window may be damaged by severe weather. This makes windows a prime entry point for moisture that leads to mildew.

6. Backed Up Sewers

Sewage backup is by far the nastiest storm disaster. Torrential rains can overload or block storm drains and sewer systems. Mold isn’t the only problem you have to worry about when you get sewage backup in your home. Untreated water is often teeming with bacteria. If a sewer in your neighborhood is backed up, immediately plug up all your drains (including the toilet). These are the prime entry points for sewage infiltration. Should your home become contaminated by sewage, it’s important to call a qualified restoration professional. Paul Davis Restoration can help!

7. Rising Waters

Although we have had a mild winter, snowfall and snowmelt can still cause flooding. All it takes is one good snowstorm! Pay attention to the total amount of rainfall and snowmelt occurring in your area to gauge your risk for flooding. Use the National Weather Service to check for flash flood warnings in your area.

Paul Davis Restoration of Central Massachusetts is available 24/7 for emergency needs.

CALL PAUL: (508)-791-6700 or (866)-DRY-MASS.

The First 5 Calls to Make After a Blizzard

Posted on: 02/01/2012

Are you ready for Central MA’s next major snowstorm? Paul Davis Restoration & Remodeling of Worcester is here to help you determine who you should call first in the event of a local disaster. Plus, we are sharing some tips for your out-of-state loved ones.

The First 5 Calls to Make After a Blizzard

Who should you call when a disaster strikes your home? In some cases, this depends on the nature of the catastrophe. If a major blizzard has hit Central MA, you may be in the middle of a natural disaster that is affecting hundreds or thousands of families. In this case, landlines and cell towers could be affected, limiting who you can contact immediately.

In general, here are the most important calls to make:

1. First Responders – Emergency services are likely to be overwhelmed in the event of a snowstorm. Call 911 only if there is an immediate danger to your life and health or that of your family. Otherwise, contact neighbors or friends to help you out (or so you can help each other).

2. Utilities – A broken gas line or a downed overhead power line can be a serious hazard after a blizzard. Call the utility company right away to address the issue. Move to a safer area until a crew arrives and corrects the problem.

3. Loved Ones – You’ll want to contact family and friends to let them know you are OK and to check on their well-being. In the event of a major disaster, use text messaging when possible to minimize the overload on the voice network. Get in touch with at least one person who lives outside your local area. This individual may serve as an important contact point in getting you the help and information you need (such as the distribution locations for the American Red Cross or local relief agencies).

4. Shelter – If your home is unsafe or completely destroyed in a major disaster, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) may be able to provide temporary housing. The number is (800) 621-3362 to register for assistance. FEMA may also have vital information about where to find necessities like food and clothing after a blizzard.

5. Restoration – Once you’ve ensured your family is safe, it’s time to start the process of rescuing your home. This involves contacting your insurance company, submitting a claim and working with a company that specializes in property damage clean up and repair. Most policies require you as the homeowner to make immediate reasonable repairs to your home following a disaster to prevent additional damage and will reimburse you for these repairs. Don’t wait for a contractor to knock on your door (there will be all kinds of fly-by-night repair companies coming through your town after a snowstorm). Be proactive in calling a licensed restoration company that specializes in repairing the specific type of damage your home sustained in the disaster.

Additional Tips:

The amount of warning you have before an event can also affect your communication strategy. You might be able to make some of your calls ahead of time rather than after the fact. For example, notify your employer that you probably won’t show up for work tomorrow because a major weather event headed your way is likely to cause damage.

And if you know someone who is experiencing a disaster in their own city, be in contact with them and let them know you’re there to help. You may be able to serve as a resource to them even from thousands of miles away.

Paul Davis Restoration of Worcester, MA is available 24/7 for emergency needs.

Weather Disasters: 10 Ridiculously Unprepared Homes – Would Yours Make the List?

Posted on: 02/16/2012

When you become comfortable in a home over a period of years, sometimes you can become blind to the structural fixes it needs. The experts at Paul Davis Restoration of Central Massachusetts have seen how floods, windstorms, blizzards and other weather disasters can unfortunately leave even the most sturdily built home in a pile of rubble. Through our years of service restoring homes and personal property, we know that a house that’s unprepared or constructed with the wrong materials for any given region can be seriously damaged by an event that leaves other structures unscathed. Here are pictures of 10 houses that will be in big trouble when the next storm hits.

1. Rain, Rain, Go Away

The gutters in this home in Antioch, Virginia, aren’t just clogged with a few leaves and twigs. They’re supporting an entire ecosystem! When gutters are stopped up, a heavy rainstorm can hurt a house from top to bottom. Rain may seep in, rotting the wood fascia. It can also pour directly onto the ground around the house, leading to foundation issues. Mold, insect infestation, flooded basements and more can result from this type of clogged gutter.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/artdrauglis/3849505103/

Photo credit: Flickr

2. Blow Me Away

A falling tree limb struck this house in Salt Lake City, Utah (a common event during weather disasters). Any time shingles are worn and torn, they become much easier for the wind to lift off. You can see why it needs to have the roof restored before the next windstorm. There may also be hidden damage to the substructure or underlayment of the roof. Putting new shingles on without ensuring that all the other problems are fixed is like putting a band-aid on a bullet wound.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/deltamike/204302921/

Photo credit: Flickr

3. Fire and Water

Disaster is literally raining down on this residence that appears to be a victim of a house fire. The fact that it was left un-restored means it’ll be vulnerable to rainstorm damage. In the meantime, insulation in the walls that was soaked during efforts to extinguish the fire is probably festering with mold. Even worse, the house is directly joined to the neighboring structure! If the damaged house leaks or floods, this could potentially lead to problems for the adjacent dwelling. You should look at any attached structures on your property as part of your house. If they are vulnerable to infiltration by water, the rest of your home is also at risk.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/jlevine/87841928/

Photo credit: Flickr

4. All Hail the Tile Roof

Ah, the tile roof. Reminiscent of the Mediterranean and oh-so-dreamy blue skies. However, a roof like this on a home in states like Kansas and Texas can leave some homeowners very unprepared when hailstorms hit. Tile doesn’t respond well to sharp impacts and can easily crack under pressure from hail stones. The Midwest is particularly prone to severe hail. Storms regularly cause hundreds of millions in property damage every year. Any type of roof should be inspected after a heavy hail storm – but you can expect a less extensive insurance claim if your shingles are rated for hail resistance.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/7147684@N03/543564835/

Photo credit: Flickr

5. Light It Up

This old-fashioned straw roof would go up like a matchstick if a wildfire blew through town! Modern homes obviously don’t have thatch roofs. However, not all shingle materials are equally fire resistant. If you live in an area like the west coast that’s prone to wildfires, you should choose a ‘class A’ fire resistant roofing material.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/shibuya246/5106627299/

Photo credit: Flickr

6. Ice, Ice, Baby

This house in New England wasn’t equipped to prevent ice buildup during a recent snowstorm. The ice dam above the gutters could allow moisture to seep in under the shingles since proper drainage is inhibited. This type of roof leak can lead to rotting wood and mold-infested insulation. The problem is likely to get worse with each subsequent blizzard if it’s not addressed. If you’ve let a winter go by without checking the integrity of your roof, eaves, and gutters, inspect them soon!

http://www.flickr.com/photos/misssage/3128629886/

7. Don’t Let the Rain Come Down

This skylight is quaint, but it’s obviously not leak proof. You can see the stains from previous water penetration along one corner. It’s ripe for another soaking with the next rainstorm. This old-style skylight has a flat surface and is designed to open – two features that aren’t actually needed and make the design much more prone to leaking. New, domed models that maximize light through refraction while allowing rain to run off onto the roof make more sense. No matter what type of skylight you have, you should check the flashing around it at least once a year to make sure there’s no chance of water getting in.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/12099014@N03/5541318125/

8. Does Anyone Have Noah on Speed Dial?

Basements are a fairly common house feature in northern areas of the U.S. They can be very useful for storage or an extra room (it’s the ideal spot for a “man cave”). But the basement in this photo shows you one common problem that can leave a home very unprepared for flooding. Imagine what’s going to happen down in this basement when snowmelt brings spring floods! Cracks like this are a sign of foundation problems that will only get worse with time – leaving a home vulnerable to cracked walls, busted plumbing, and worse.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/buymelunch/4024807886/

9. We Have Achieved Liftoff

Check out the flimsy corrugated roof on this house on stilts! Fortunately, this residence is located in the UK. If it was in Oklahoma, we can just see the entire roof being peeled off in a single swipe by a tornado. If the house was along the West Coast and a mudslide hit, the weight of the soil would probably snap those stilts like toothpicks.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/johndunster/57531562/

10. Knock Me Over with a Feather

What can we even say about this sad shack in Ontario, California? We’re afraid that even a slight breeze might cause it to completely collapse!

http://www.flickr.com/photos/bobolink/5708424710/

Photo credit: Flickr

Do you have a ridiculously unprepared home in your neighborhood? Send us an image! Jpingitore@pdr-usa.net

Experience weather-related property damage? Call Paul Davis Restoration & Remodeling! (508)-791-6700 or (866)-DRY-MASS.

15 Tips for Protecting Your Pets In a Weather-Related Disaster

Posted on: 02/08/2012

15 Tips for Protecting Your Pets In a Weather-Related Disaster

Who can forget the images of stranded dogs and cats on the television in the weeks after Hurricane Katrina? At Paul Davis Restoration of Worcester, our first priority is the safety and well being of your family — which of course, includes your pets. We have a soft spot for your furry loved ones and we know from experience that all it takes is a little preparation to avoid the heartbreak of seeing them injured in a storm. When a storm approaches Central Massachusetts, be sure you’ve planned ahead with these tips from Paul Davis Restoration to protect your four-legged companions from getting lost or injured. We suggest you keep this basic checklist on the fridge next to all your other emergency contacts.

1. Develop a written plan of action that includes your pet…NOW before any weather-disaster strikes. Play the “what if” game so that you can prepare for a variety of scenarios. Have a back-up plan in case things don’t work out with “plan A”. You should develop your plan based on the most likely weather-related disaster in your area. For example, if you live where wildfires rage every year, your plan will be all about evacuation. If you live in “Tornado Alley”, you should plan how to keep your pet indoors with you when it’s time to batten down the hatches.

2. When it is safe to do so, leave early with your pet whenever a disaster emergency is declared. Generally, the longer you wait to move, the more dangerous the situation will become. Observe prior warnings and recommendations so that you are better prepared when an evacuation is ordered.

3. Include outdoor pets in your disaster preparedness plan. It’s too easy to forget these friends or assume that they can fend for themselves because they are outside. The truth is that they are likely to go missing even if they are not injured or killed. This means you should be on good enough terms with your outdoor pets to coax them into a carrier easily.

4. Most emergency public shelters and evacuation centers don’t accept pets. Find out in advance which locations in Central Massachusetts are pet-friendly in case you need to leave your home to avoid a weather-related disaster. Remember that current vaccinations are an absolute must if you expect your pets to be welcome in any shelter. Consider evacuating to a pet-friendly motel if there are no shelters that accept pets. The following websites and search tools will help you locate motels, restaurants, places and services that allow pets under various circumstances: Go Pet Friendly, TravelPets, PetsWelcome, PetTravel, DogFriendly.

5. Consider pet insurance as part of any preparedness plan. Although ConsumerReports.org states that there is generally little value over the long run for the cost of premiums, the benefits of such a policy may depend on your location and whether your pet has special medical needs. It may be best to set up a self-insurance savings account specifically for the purpose of handling emergency situations for your pet. You can use this fund to pay for the cost of emergency supplies, veterinary care, evacuation, etc.

6. If you have sufficient notice of an incoming storm, talk to local boarding kennels and pet shelters about the preparedness of their facilities. Your pet may be able to safely ride out the storm in a kennel. This approach might be a good idea if you have small children who will need your undivided attention during an emergency. Ask about the capacity of the kennel – and whether they usually get overcrowded when there are weather-related disaster warnings.

7. If you must leave home, don’t leave your pets. You might be gone longer than you think, putting your pet at risk for dehydration and starvation. Never leave your pet alone in an evacuation area unless you absolutely have no other choice. Your pet will likely die if left inside a mobile home alone. Even in a safer structure, the chances of pet survival are slim, especially in heat or frigid temperatures. If they do manage to survive, this may be because they found a way to escape the house. They may not be there when you get back. If they are, they may have caused significant damage to your property while trying to get out.

8. Identification is critical for making sure your pet can be returned to you as soon as possible. Use a combination of contact tags (external collar tags and microchip) to make it easier locate a pet that is separated from you during a weather-related disaster. This is especially critical in large-scale disasters like tornadoes and hurricanes when local shelters and animal control centers may be dealing with a high volume of missing pets at one time.

9. Keep photos of your pet in a dry location in case you need to make lost posters. If you really want to be prepared, make up some “missing pet” posters before the severe weather hits, just in case you need them. Be sure to include a way to contact you that will still be accessible even if the power lines are down.

10. The safest area of your home for humans is usually also the safest area for pets. Make your furry friends comfortable with their favorite bedding and toys. Bring in a crate or carrier in case your pet becomes agitated and tries to get out of the room. This is especially important with cats since they can slip out very easily and run away. Keep all exit routes shut.

11. Put together an emergency travel kit for your pet that includes a carrier, leash or harness, food, water, towels, medications, etc. Include enough supplies to last several days at a minimum. Some organizations suggest a week minimum. This should give you enough time to find other resources. Make sure there are some First Aid supplies that can be used for your pet as well (gauze, bandages, disinfectant).

12. If you have reason to believe you might be out of the house when a weather-related disaster strikes, post prominent signs in the windows letting neighbors and rescue workers know there are pets inside. Include the names and descriptions of each pet along with any special handling instructions.

13. Exchange pet information with neighbors so they can help evacuate pets when you are not available to do so. Make sure anyone who has a key to your home is familiar and comfortable with all your pets. These friendly neighbors should know the animal’s habits and their special place where they are likely to feel safest. Animals are often frightened by high winds, thunder and heavy rain fall associated with weather-related disasters and will hide away.

14. Keep your pets close to you even after the severe weather is over. The debris left behind, contaminated water and stray animals running free in your neighborhood can continue to pose a threat to your pet’s life and health. Flooding creates lots of opportunities for pets to drink or drown in unsafe water. Wildfires can leave behind toxic residues including chemical-laden soot and ash from building materials. There may also still be smoldering remains that can burn your pet. Mudslides can create entrapment hazards even after most of the ground has stopped shifting. Broken glass is usually left behind by hurricanes, windstorms and tornadoes.

15. If your pet does get lost and you can’t find it in your neighborhood, call the local animal control office. They should have information on where lost pets are being housed waiting for owners to come pick them up.

Face Your Fire & Smoke Claim with Confidence

Posted on: 01/31/2012

If you've suffered a fire loss at your home, the first step taken should be to contact your local fire department. No matter how large or small the fire may be, do not enter the home under any circumstances until the fire department says that it is safe to do so.

Paul Davis Restoration is available 24/7 for emergency board-ups, as well as to assist with any structural damage that the fire may have caused, the cleaning of soot and smoke odor elimination. We promise a 30-minute response time, and a 4-hour on-site response time. However, while you are waiting for us to arrive, you may be wondering what you can do to help the situation. Here is a simple guide to follow:

Appliances/Electronics: Do not use any TV, stereo, or electronic appliances until they have been cleaned and checked. Empty your refrigerator/freezer completely if the electricity is off, and prop the doors open with a rolled towel.
Carpets: Brush or vacuum loose smoke particles from carpets. Avoid walking or tracking on carpet if possible. Do not use “do-it-yourself” home carpet cleaners.
Ceilings/Walls: Do not wipe or attempt to wash ceilings or other absorbent surfaces.
Doors: Close doors in affected areas to localize smoke odors as much as possible.
Food Items: Do not consume food items exposed to smoke or canned goods which have been subjected to excessive heat.
Furnace: Change the furnace filter if the blower is operating. Tape double pieces of cheesecloth over air registers with masking tape.
Furniture: If possible, avoid using upholstered furniture.
Pets: Remove all pets to a clean environment.
Plants: Wash plants with mild soap and water, cleaning both sides of the leaves.
Plumbing: Call a plumber to drain and winterize the system if the heat will be turned off in the winter.
Windows: If possible, open windows to ventilate.

Paul Davis Restoration of Worcester: CALL PAUL (508)-791-6700

The Ice Dams are Coming!

Posted on: 01/18/2012

What is an ice dam?

An ice dam is a ridge of ice that forms at the edge of a roof and prevents melting snow from draining off the roof. Ice dams can result in:

Leaking roof (height of leak depends on extent of ice dam).
Wet, ineffective insulation.
Stained or cracked plaster or drywall.
Rotting timber.
Stained, blistered or peeling paint.

What will Paul Davis Restoration & Remodeling do to help you in the event of an ice dam?

Drain the ice dams and stop the leaks.
Dry the structure.
Clean up the mess.
Mitigate the damage.
Prepare a damage estimate & report.

Our fast and efficient process does NOT damage the roof, stops the leaking FAST and helps prevent repeat back ups!

We are available 24/7 for all of your emergency needs!

Call: (508)-791-6700

Winter Maintenance Tips For Your Home

Posted on: 01/16/2012

Winter Tips:

Remove screens from windows and install storm windows
Clean out gutters and downspouts
Insulate pipes in your home's crawl spaces and attic
Store firewood at least 30 feet away from your home
Familiarize responsible family members with the gas main valve and other appliance valves
Clean the clothes dryer exhaust duct, damper and space under the dryer
Make sure all electrical holiday decorations have tight connections
Check the attic for adequate ventilation
Clean the kitchen exhaust hood and air filter
Check the water hoses on the clothes washer, refrigerator icemaker and dishwasher for cracks and bubbles
Test all ground-fault-circuit-interrupter (GFCI) outlets

Remove the screens from the storm window frames and install storm windows

Storm windows help reduce the cost to heat your home and help prevent windowsills from rotting.

Clean out gutters and downspouts

Cleaning debris and fallen leaves reduces the chances of an ice dam forming. One good step is to spray water down the downspouts to wash away leaves and other debris. A good tip is to place gutter screens over gutters. Read more about ice dams at attic ventilation and water damage.

Extreme caution should be exercised when working on or around the roof. Consider hiring a professional.

Insulate pipes in your home's crawl spaces and attic

These exposed pipes are most susceptible to freezing. Remember: the more insulation you use, the better protected your pipes will be.

Store firewood at least 30 feet away from your home

This will reduce a home's fire load and the chance of attracting termites.

Familiarize responsible family members with the main gas valve and other appliance valves

Responsible family members should be familiar with the location and operation of valves. If you are unsure of the location and operation of these valves, contact a qualified plumber.

Clean the clothes dryer exhaust duct, damper and space under the dryer

Poor maintenance allows lint to build up in the exhaust duct and may cause a fire.

Make sure all electrical holiday decorations have tight connections

If possible, use 3-prong plugs and cords. The use of 2-prong adapters, which permit 3-prong plugs to be used in 2-prong outlets, doesn't always provide grounding to protect against shock. Unplug decorations when not in use.

Use of extension cords should be temporary. To help reduce the chances of overheating, electric cords, including extension cords, should never be bundled together or run under rugs and carpet.

Check the attic for adequate ventilation

Check the exterior wall to be sure the ceiling insulation is not blocking the outside air from the soffit vents from getting into the attic. Make sure the attic has plenty of vents. Caution should be taken in all attic spaces that are unfinished. Read more at Attic ventilation and water damage.

Clean the kitchen exhaust hood and air filter

Keeping this clean of cooking grease will help keep a stovetop fire from spreading.

Check water hoses on the clothes washer, refrigerator icemaker and dishwasher for cracks and bubbles

Replace hoses that show signs of leaking. Read more about Preventing water damage in your home.

Test all ground-fault-circuit-interrupter (GFCI) outlets

These need to be tripped and reset once a month. If they do not trip or reset, have the outlet changed by a qualified electrician. These types of outlets are required around wet areas like bathrooms and kitchens to offer protection against shock. Only a qualified electrician should make changes in your home's electrical system.

8 Surprising Lifesavers in a Windstorm

Posted on: 02/06/2012

A Surprising Checklist of Things You’ll Need for a Windstorm

You’ve seen the way blockbuster movies present a windstorm (whether straight-line winds, tornado, or hurricane). The lesson from Hollywood? If you don’t own an underground storage cellar, you’re going to end up flying through the air and swallowed up by a big, dark cloud. But forget the silver screen – Paul Davis Restoration has seen the aftermath of real storms, right in our area. Although hurricanes and tornadoes are rare events here, Massachusetts gets its share of pummeling during the storm season. We’ve experienced the true-life heartbreaking stories…and have proudly helped families restore their property after they’ve thought there was no way to repair the damage. In the process of helping property owners recover after a windstorm, we’ve also learned about some other surprising lifesavers that can protect you and your property from a windstorm. Here are 8 tips:

1. Your Door

Wind pressure can rip your home open at its weakest points. You may think the most likely points of damage are the windows, but doors are also vulnerable. Doors manufactured before 1994 aren’t usually rated for pressure. Consider replacing your exterior doors with newer models that are code approved for both wind pressure and debris impact. Have them installed to open outward rather than inward.

2. Wooden Furniture

Invest in at least one sturdy, solid piece of wooden furniture. It can be your best friend during a tornado or hurricane. As part of your emergency preparedness plan, think about which table, desk, or workbench you can easily move to the safest part of your house such as the bathroom or closet (make sure the furniture fits through the door). When you hide under this piece of furniture, you will have an extra shield against falling debris – including heavy pieces like roofing materials or tree branches.

3. Mulch

Gravel and rock are lovely choices for landscaping. But they can easily become deadly projectiles in high winds. They can break your windows and cause shrapnel-like damage to the human body. To avoid this danger, use materials such as wood mulch instead of gravel in your flowerbeds, and pave your driveway with concrete instead of pebbles.

4. Trimmed Greenery

You can decrease your risk of electric shock by making sure the city is doing its job. Anytime you see vegetation and trees growing into the utility lines near your home, give the city a call to report this unsafe condition. When they cut back vegetation, this reduces the risk that you will step outside after a windstorm and find that downed power lines are energizing the puddles of sleet around your home.

5. Duct Tape (Duck Tape)

Don’t laugh! This adhesive really is very useful during and after a windstorm. Securing windows with duct tape does little to improve protection from broken glass (boarding up your windows is ideal). But it can be helpful for other last minute safety adjustments since this tape is strong and waterproof. For instance, duct tape can also help prevent water leaks around windows and doors from wind driven rain and snow. Plus, you can use duct tape to secure blankets around windows and doors to help stay warm when the power goes out when a windstorm is accompanied by a blizzard.

6. A Whistle

If you get trapped under debris, blowing a whistle may save your life. A whistle’s sound will travel farther than your voice with far less effort, and it can sometimes be heard through solid structures. A safety whistle will get the attention of rescuers faster and save you from losing your voice from shouting.

7. Waterproof Heavy Duty Flashlight

You can use a bright flashlight to signal rescuers in low light situations. If you sustain injuries that prevent you from speaking, flashing a light can draw attention to you when you need help most. Power may be out immediately after a windstorm. A reliable emergency light source will help you get around in the dark without injury. Keep in mind that a flashlight may require backup batteries to ensure longer life.

8. Air Purifier

If you’re an apartment dweller, an air purifier that removes both particulates and chemicals may help keep your family comfortable indoors during a severe-weather event (assuming the power stays on). As staying inside is your safest option in any windstorm, you might as well still have access to fresh air!

The PDR Blog

4 Outstanding Children's Books About Safety for Families

Mythical Ways to Predict a Storm (and How the Experts Really Do It)

Fastest Ways to Prep for a Spring Storm

5 Worst Area Mudslides and Other Wet Weather Disasters

7 Ways Your Home Can Be Infiltrated in a Storm

The First 5 Calls to Make After a Blizzard

Weather Disasters: 10 Ridiculously Unprepared Homes – Would Yours Make the List?

15 Tips for Protecting Your Pets In a Weather-Related Disaster

Face Your Fire & Smoke Claim with Confidence

The Ice Dams are Coming!

Winter Maintenance Tips For Your Home

8 Surprising Lifesavers in a Windstorm

4 Outstanding Children's Books About Safety for Families

Mythical Ways to Predict a Storm (and How the Experts Really Do It)

Fastest Ways to Prep for a Spring Storm

5 Worst Area Mudslides and Other Wet Weather Disasters

7 Ways Your Home Can Be Infiltrated in a Storm

The First 5 Calls to Make After a Blizzard

Weather Disasters: 10 Ridiculously Unprepared Homes – Would Yours Make the List?

15 Tips for Protecting Your Pets In a Weather-Related Disaster

Face Your Fire & Smoke Claim with Confidence

The Ice Dams are Coming!

Winter Maintenance Tips For Your Home

8 Surprising Lifesavers in a Windstorm

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