Clutter & Restoration Clean Up

Some of us hate the never-ending task of having to tidy and organize the things in our homes and/or offices. But, letting things pile up could lead to more than just not having a clear space from which to live or work. It can actually cause injuries and emergency hazards.

Many may not realize that clutter can actually lead to a number of problematic situations, including falls and other bodily injuries, as well as blocking areas that can prevent one from exiting or entering a building in an emergency. The inability to leave a building in an emergency quickly because of cluttered hallways and door entries, or the inability to locate important items like a fire extinguisher, is dangerous. As spring cleaning becomes top of mind for those in the community, we want to offer some tips on how they can de-clutter and make their homes and offices safe.

To prevent injuries and emergency hazards, PuroClean of Seattle suggests the following ways local residents and business professionals can start de-cluttering their homes and offices:

• Start in small increments. When de-cluttering your home or office, it's best to start with closets or other storage areas first. Once you've freed up space in those areas for storage, you can then clear rooms, corners and other open spaces and put leftover items in your now spacious closets. It is better to have items in your closets than in trafficked areas.

• Cut clutter in the kitchen. The kitchen is probably the most common place where fires start. Your kitchen should always be clear of clutter. And, you should make sure you never have flammable objects near the oven and stove area, such as billing statements, grocery lists and other paper items, as well as dish rags, sponges or other flammable kitchen items.

• Trash junk mail. Some of us have an area in our home or office where junk mail and other unnecessary papers seem to pile up. To avoid the collection of unwanted papers, and the potential of a fire hazard, discard of unwanted mail as soon as you get it. Don’t let it pile up. If you receive a lot of bills and bank statements in the mail, consider paying bills and reviewing statements online only.

• Donate, donate, donate. If you find that you have clothes in your closet that you haven't worn in six months or longer, it's best to get rid of them. One way to do that is by donating them. Find a homeless shelter in your neighborhood where you can drop them off. Or, consider having a garage sale to sell clothing and other unwanted items at a low cost.

• Got books? Don't let them collect dust. Some individuals may find that they purchase many books, but end up reading them only once. Instead of letting them collect dust and use up space, have a book exchange party where you can get rid of them, or donate them to your local library. For future reads, consider borrowing books from friends or simply getting your books at your local library instead of purchasing new ones.

PuroClean of Seattle specializes in property emergency services. PuroClean certified technicians help families and businesses overcome the devastating setbacks caused by water, fire, mold and other conditions resulting in property damage.

Our concern is the safety of the members of our community. If homes and offices are clear of clutter, individuals can walk around in them safely. And, in emergency situations, they can get out of those places in a quick fashion, while also allowing emergency workers like us to enter the home without having to navigate through clutter. We hope that the tips that we have provided are helpful.

Regardless of the circumstances; dealing with trauma, remediating mold, responding to water damage or fire/smoke damage - PuroClean of Seattle is ready to take care of all your needs, please give us a call 24/7 at (206) 729- PURO (7876).

Servicing: Federal Way, Tukwila, Des Moines, Burien, Sea Tac, West Seattle, Seattle, Queen Anne, Capitol Hill, Magnolia, Ballard, Shoreline, Lynnwood, Edmonds, Mukilteo, and Surrounding Areas

For all property damage situations, we are standing by. We will mitigate the loss to prevent further damage and will then provide restoration services to return the property to a pre-loss condition as quickly as possible. PuroClean of Seattle has well-trained professional technicians who provide the latest state-of-the-science services to all property damaged from biohazard, water, fire, smoke, mold, and other disasters.

Biohazard Remediation

Most people never think of what is involved to clean up blood or body fluids after an accident, injury, or unattended death. Insurance professionals may receive a call from a frantic or grieving property owner when such a loss occurs. How to proceed requires serious consideration and special attention - not only because the individuals involved are emotional or experiencing stress, but also because certain materials are hazardous.

In 1991, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) issued the Bloodborne Pathogens Standard (29 CFR 1910.1030) to protect workers from this risk of blood or other potentially infectious materials (BOPIM). This standard helps protect approximately 5.6 million workers in the health care industry and related occupations. Biohazard remediation falls within the scope of the BOPIM standard.

The standard provides regulations to protect workers from the risk of exposure to bloodborne pathogens such as the Hepatitis B Virus (HBV), Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), and many others. The BOPIM standard has several requirements, including:

• The use of work practice controls
• The use of appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
• Proper handling, transport, and disposal of hazardous medical waste materials
• Specific required vaccinations
• Mandatory training
• Record keeping

Hazardous medical waste includes blood and other potentially infectious materials, such as spinal fluid, peritoneal fluid, amniotic fluid, and other body fluids. PuroClean restoration professionals are aware that these materials may cause infection to others. During the cleanup process, proper steps are required to always maintain the safety of workers or other individuals near the cleanup site. All biohazard materials are assumed infectious and are treated accordingly.

As with any type of property damage, PuroClean restoration professionals ensure that their actions do not compound the sense of loss of the property owners. In traumatic situations associated with BOPIM cleanup, PuroClean restoration professionals are exceptionally sensitive to the things they say and do - especially remembering that those involved may be emotionally vulnerable. It is important to show extra care and understanding at every stage of this type of cleanup. If others are at the location, PuroClean restoration professionals empathize with the traumatic situation these people are dealing with.

It is essential to use proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to help ensure the safety of workers. PPE is necessary in complying with OSHA regulations and worker safety, but varies from job to job, depending on conditions. PPE should always include full-face protection, gloves, properly designated waterproof coveralls that include feet and head protection, and if necessary, a respirator with appropriate filters. The objective of wearing PPE is to avoid potential infection by ensuring that no hazardous material enters the body through skin, eyes, mouth, nose, or any other area.

The proper use of PPE, along with comprehensive training in handling hazardous medical waste, is vital during restoration. An initial assessment will identify immediate areas of concern and determine the scope of the work involved. Once a plan is in place, remediation efforts begin as quickly as possible.

PuroClean professionals start with an initial sanitization for worker safety. All potentially infectious materials are then carefully removed from the site. Hazardous medical waste is handled in compliance with OSHA regulations, appropriately processed, and sent to a licensed hazardous medical waste incinerator. Porous materials such as fabric and carpeting are removed in accordance with industry standards and government regulations. All other affected materials that are not considered hazardous medical waste are either removed or professionally decontaminated and sanitized, depending on the situation. Remaining materials such as drywall and flooring may be sealed - usually for cosmetic reasons to cover any stains from the incident.

Typically, the removal of contaminated materials, along with cleaning and sanitizing, sufficiently controls odors. In some cases, additional deodorization may require hydroxyls or ozone processes.

As with any property loss, PuroClean restoration professionals can help bring an unfortunate situation to a satisfactory solution. PuroClean restoration professionals are trained to clean up after traumatic events in a highly professional manner. They know how to remediate biohazard situations safely and in accordance with all applicable laws and standards. If you have a homeowner or business owner with a biohazard loss, call our local independently owned and operated PuroClean office for prompt and professional service.

Regardless of the circumstances; dealing with trauma, remediating mold, responding to water damage or fire/smoke damage - PuroClean of Seattle is ready to take care of all your needs, please give us a call 24/7 at (206) 729- PURO (7876).

Servicing: Federal Way, Tukwila, Des Moines, Burien, Sea Tac, West Seattle, Seattle, Queen Anne, Capitol Hill, Magnolia, Ballard, Shoreline, Lynnwood, Edmonds, Mukilteo, and Surrounding Areas

For all property damage situations, we are standing by. We will mitigate the loss to prevent further damage and will then provide restoration services to return the property to a pre-loss condition as quickly as possible. PuroClean of Seattle has well-trained professional technicians who provide the latest state-of-the-science services to all property damaged from biohazard, water, fire, smoke, mold, and other disasters.

Swine Flu (H1N1 Flu) - Protecting Yourself and Loved Ones

Following is some useful, up-to-date information regarding H1N1 Flu, and how to protect yourself and your loved ones from infection.

The risk
As of this writing, a review of the key indicators by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found that:

• Over 99% of all subtyped influenza A viruses being reported to the CDC were 2009 influenza A (H1N1) viruses.
• The proportion of deaths attributed to pneumonia and influenza (P&I) was above the epidemic threshold for the eighth consecutive week.
• Thirty-five influenza-associated pediatric deaths were reported. Twenty-seven (>77%) of these deaths were associated with 2009 influenza A (H1N1) virus infection.
• The proportion of outpatient visits for influenza-like illness (ILI) was 4.3% which is above the national baseline of 2.3%. All 10 regions reported ILI above region-specific baseline levels.
• Thirty-two states reported geographically widespread influenza activity.
• Almost all of the influenza viruses identified so far are 2009 H1N1 influenza A viruses. These H1N1viruses are similar to the virus chosen for the 2009 H1N1 vaccine, and are susceptible to treatment from the antiviral drugs oseltamivir (Tamiflu) and zanamivir (Relenza) with rare exceptions.
  
  How is H1N1 Flu spread?
  The CDC states that H1N1 Flu is commonly spread person-to-person through coughing or sneezing. The projected virus-infused droplets can then settle on surfaces, such as doorknobs. Transmission can occur when an individual comes in contact with an infected surface and then touches his or her own nose, mouth, or eyes. Even though the H1N1 Flu is commonly called Swine Flu, it cannot be spread by eating pork products, since the virus is not transmitted through food.
  
  What are the symptoms?
  The CDC reports that the symptoms of H1N1 Flu transmitted from human to human are similar to the seasonal flu. Common symptoms include fever, lethargy, lack of appetite, and coughing. In addition, runny nose, sore throat, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea have also been reported. H1N1 Flu is most contagious during the first five days of the illness, although some people (most commonly children) can remain contagious for up to ten days. Anyone with flu-like symptoms such as a sudden fever, cough, or muscle aches should stay away from the workplace, avoid public areas, and see a doctor to be tested.
  
  How can H1N1 Flu be prevented?
• Wash your hands frequently and keep your hands away from your face. This is a surprisingly effective way to prevent all sorts of diseases, including ordinary influenza and the H1N1 Flu virus.
• Use antimicrobial hand gels to reduce the spread of viruses.
• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, and then dispose of it in the trash. If you do not have a tissue handy, cover your mouth with an arm, not your hands.
  
  Are facemasks effective?
  Facemasks are generally loose-fitting and protect the wearer's mouth and nose from splashes or sprays from an infected person. They also help people avoid touching their nose or mouth. However, they are not designed to protect the wearer from inhaling very small particles. Respirators, on the other hand, are tight fitting and do help block small particles.
  
  If used correctly, facemasks (and especially respirators) may reduce the risk of getting influenza, according to information from the CDC. But for people who live in areas with confirmed cases, there is no single action that will provide complete protection. It simply is not practical to wear a mask all the time, and they are not 100% effective.
  
  Cleaning buildings
  If H1N1 Flu is confirmed in a building, steps can be taken to help reduce the risk to others. A professional cleaning and restoration company should be called- as PuroClean technicians are trained in reducing potential contamination. The decontamination process should include cleaning commonly touched areas - such as door handles, light switches, drawer pulls, phones, and any small items handled by many people.
  
  Larger surfaces such as doors themselves, desks, counter tops, and hard floors may also be sanitized. In public settings, equipment used repeatedly such as exercise units, gym mats, lockers, and safety gear should be decontaminated. PuroClean's professional restorers will sanitize all areas that people touch regularly to ensure viruses are destroyed on those surfaces.
  
  Call the Professionals
  
  If H1N1 Flu is confirmed at a location, or if you want to reduce the likelihood of occurrence, it is important to call a professional emergency service company such as PuroClean. Through PuroClean RapidDefense, trained professionals will quickly assess the situation and outline the best approach for each location. They will then clean and sanitize all surfaces and materials using EPA-registered disinfectants. Residual benefits from this treatment will last up to three months. If H1N1 Flu has been identified, or if you want to be certain the facility is as safe as it can be, then call PuroClean. We will be glad to provide a free evaluation.
  
  Regardless of the circumstances; dealing with H1N1 or other biohazards, remediating mold, responding to water damage or fire/smoke damage - PuroClean of Seattle is ready to take care of all your needs, please give us a call 24/7 at (206) 729- PURO (7876).
  
  Servicing: Federal Way, Tukwila, Des Moines, Burien, Sea Tac, West Seattle, Seattle, Queen Anne, Capitol Hill, Magnolia, Ballard, Shoreline, Lynnwood, Edmonds, Mukilteo, and Surrounding Areas
  
  For all property damage situations, we are standing by. We will mitigate the loss to prevent further damage and will then provide restoration services to return the property to a pre-loss condition as quickly as possible. PuroClean of Seattle has well-trained professional technicians who provide the latest state-of-the-science services to all property damaged from biohazard, water, fire, smoke, mold, and other disasters.

Water Damage from Freezing Pipes

Pipes are especially vulnerable to damage caused by expanding water. Water lines that freeze are usually those directly exposed to severe cold, such as outdoor hose bibs, swimming pool supply lines, or water sprinkler lines. In addition, pipes in unheated interior areas such as basements, crawl spaces, attics, garages, and kitchen cabinets, and those that run against exterior walls with little or no insulation are also susceptible to freezing.

A number of variables contribute to freeze damage: the type of building construction; the quality and quantity of insulation; the decline in temperature; the direction and force of wind; and other weather-related conditions are all contributing factors.

Buildings that are poorly designed and do not withstand severe weather sufficiently can contribute to their own damage. The type and age of the plumbing system is also a factor. Rust or corrosion weakens pipes, making leaks more likely to occur. When freeze-expansion occurs, corroded pipes will often split open. When thawing begins or when the water is turned back on, damage can occur.

During renovation of older homes, blown-in or foam insulation is sometimes added to wall cavities between interior and exterior wall surfaces and between studs. This process may actually insulate heat away from pipes adjacent to the exterior wall surfaces, making them more susceptible to freezing.

Surprisingly, pipe freezing can be a particular problem in the warmer climates of southern states. In these areas, buildings may not be adequately constructed for cold weather conditions. Pipes often run through non-insulated or under-insulated attics, crawl spaces, or walls. If the temperature drops below freezing for even a day, these pipes may freeze and break.

In northern climates, many people go south for the winter. They “winterize” their homes by draining the plumbing system and adding antifreeze to plumbing fixtures. This is an excellent prevention procedure and greatly reduces the possibility of frozen pipes.
Draining of a plumbing system should be thorough and complete. If water lines sag or bow, there may be low spots that are difficult to drain completely. To be most effective, compressed air should be used to blow out the lines. If not properly done, some amount of water will remain in the low points of the lines that can freeze.

Damage generally occurs when the water supply is turned back on. Since most modern plumbing lines are inside walls hidden from sight, a freeze-caused leak is usually discovered only after water has damaged floors, carpet, walls, or ceilings. Occasionally, an occupant hears the sound of spraying water, but by then it may be too late. The leak has already caused some degree of damage.

Winter wind, snow, and ice storms frequently damage electric power lines and equipment, resulting in interruptions of electric power. Most heating systems depend on electricity, and when the power goes off, so does the heat. In severe cold weather, this can result in extensive freeze damage before power is restored.

Following are some tips to help prevent damage from frozen pipes when away from your home for more than a day or two:

1. Shut off the water supply and drain pipes or appliances.
2. Have someone you trust check your home about once per week if you are away.
3. Have emergency numbers handy such as a plumber, electrician, roofer, and PuroClean in case something does go wrong.
4. Protect pipes, fittings, and appliances against freezing with insulation or heat strips.
5. Have your HVAC system serviced before leaving if you will be away for an extended period of time.
6. Set your thermostat no lower than 55 degrees.
7. Before leaving turn off your water heater. (See owner’s manual for procedures.)
8. Install storm windows and/or close shutters to keep in heat.
9. Clean gutters and downspouts to ensure proper water drainage.
10. Service sump pump to ensure proper operation. Adding a backup power source is prudent.
11. Unplug all nonessential electric appliances.
12. Inform local police if you will be out of town.

Regardless of the circumstances — frozen or leaking pipes or any water damage, fire/smoke damage, biohazard remediation or mold remediation — call PuroClean of Seattle is ready to take care of all your needs, please give us a call 24/7 at (206) 729- PURO (7876).

Servicing: Federal Way, Tukwila, Des Moines, Burien, Sea Tac, West Seattle, Seattle, Queen Anne, Capitol Hill, Magnolia, Ballard, Shoreline, Lynnwood, Edmonds, Mukilteo, and Surrounding Areas

Water Damage- Can we save the carpet?...

A pipe breaks and water is everywhere. The insured calls the agent and the process begins. The sooner the policyholder calls the quicker the response and, normally, the lower the total costs of restoration. Although many issues can be discussed involving water damages, in this article we're going to concentrate on just one...the carpet.

Of all the dollars spent by the insurance industry on property claims, floor covering is, by far, the most expensive category. It stands to reason that if we can save floor coverings affected by water damage the savings, on a national scale, would be significant. As with any loss, health and safety is of primary importance. The customer should be cautioned about electrical hazards, slip and fall and falling debris, such as drywall or acoustical ceiling tiles.Quick response is of the essence. The longer the unwanted water is allowed to remain, the more likely the carpeting will experience permanent damage. Because of this, regardless of the hour, the restoration process should begin without delay. Some customers attempt to extract the water themselves. While this can be of some benefit, a shop vacuum, towels and ceiling fans are absolutely no replacement for professional extraction and drying equipment. It is very important to get a professional mitigator on site as soon as possible!

The very best opportunity to save carpet (and other items) is to have professionals on site immediately. The initial stage or phase of the restoration process includes addressing safety issues and employing "contain and control " procedures. Standing water must be pumped or extracted to prevent migration of water into adjoining areas and sub-surfaces. Professional moisture meters are used to determine the exact location and extent of water damage.

The first step professional restorers take is determining the category of loss: (A) is this a Category-1 loss? (clean water source;) (B) is this a Category-2 loss? (gray water: with some contamination but not including pathogens or sewage;) or (C) is this a Category-3 loss? (black water: involves sewage and known contamination.) Category-1 is a clean water source and has not come in contact with materials that carry a health concern for the occupants. This would include broken pipes, hot water heaters, tub or sink overflows, etc. professional mitigation specialists can extract water from the carpet and pad and dry them both in place! This dramatically reduces the cost of the claim and helps restore the lives of the policy holders much more quickly. Category-2 is not a clean water source. This water contains some contamination and has the potential to cause discomfort or sickness if contacted or consumed by humans. Typically this would include washing machine or dishwasher overflows, toilet overflows with no solid matter, broken aquariums, sump pump failures, etc. Because of the additional contamination, this type of loss requires the replacement of the carpet pad, but the carpet itself is normally salvageable. Note: if a Category-2 loss is not treated promptly then the category will escalate to a Category-3 loss (black water.) This is often considered the situation if 48 hours have passed since the loss occurred.Category-3 is grossly contaminated water containing pathogenic or other harmful agents. Examples of this water include sewage, toilet backflows that originate beyond the toilet trap (regardless of color) all forms of flooding from seawater, rising water from the ground and from rivers or streams, and other water entering the structure from hurricanes, storms or weather-related events.This water condition is of primary concern when it comes to the health and safety of the occupants. It should be treated seriously because it is serious. Mitigation professionals should be called to deal with this type of loss. Policyholders should not expose themselves to Category-3 water. If, for some reason it is necessary, then they should be reminded to wear gloves, shoe protection and other items to protect themselves. Carpet is a multi-layered installation with a big sponge under it. Industry standards require that carpet and pad (and anything that is absorbent- textiles, drywall, etc.) that have been contaminated with black water must be bagged and removed from the structure, and disposed of in an appropriate location.

Professional restoration companies understand this and operate accordingly. Every water loss is different. Even with Category-1 andCategory-2 losses, there are varying circumstances that determine whether the carpet can be or should be saved. How old it is, what condition it is in, how it was installed and its construction are all factors that have to be taken into consideration. Mitigation professionals have the training and knowledge to evaluate each situation and to determine the best course of action. They are also trained to communicate well with policyholders, agents and adjusters to insure that everyone understands the process and proper procedures.

So the next time you meet with one of your insured's, take a few moments to explain to them how important rapid response is in the event they were to experience a water loss. Remember, the single most important act in such an event is to call a professional mitigation company to help deal with the loss. Professionals will restore the lives of the policyholders as quickly as possible with maximum cost efficiency and in a trustworthy and understanding manner.

PuroClean of Seattle is ready to take care of all your needs, please give us a call 24/7 at (206) 729- PURO (7876).

Servicing: Federal Way, Tukwila, Des Moines, Burien, Sea Tac, West Seattle, Seattle, Queen Anne, Capitol Hill, Magnolia, Ballard, Shoreline, Lynnwood, Edmonds, Mukilteo, and Surrounding Areas

Fire, Smoke, and Odor Preventing Tips

Preventing Fire Tips

Mark your calendars: Fire Prevention Week is right around the corner (October 4th – 10th). That means it is time for a refresher course on preventing fires in your home and your place of business.

During this time of year, people nationwide may begin using additional electrical devices and other items, such as heating units or holiday decorations. Therefore, PuroClean of Seattle explains how careful use of those items can prevent fires on residential and commercial properties in the local community.

Fires are more common during this time of year – due to the use of heating items, holiday decorations, and the frequency of cooking for celebratory feasts. That is why we want to educate community members in Seattle."

According to the U.S. Fire Administration, there were an estimated 1.5 million fires that occurred in the country last year. In addition, the Administration notes that heating appliances are the leading cause of winter fires, followed by cooking. And, the use of holiday adornments, such as Christmas trees and decorations, provide additional points of ignition that increase the incidence of holiday fires.

PuroClean of Seattle has provided the following list of tips for people to use as a guideline for fire prevention checks around their homes and places of business:

• Be sure every level of your home or office has a working smoke alarm, and be sure to check and clean it every month.
  


• Holiday decorations should be made with flame-retardant or non-combustible materials.
  


• At home, use electrical devices that are in good condition and certified by the Underwriters Laboratories (UL), a trusted source for safety. At work, check with your building manager to ensure electrical circuits will not be overloaded.
  


• Use extreme caution when burning candles. Make sure they are in sturdy, non-combustible holders, and are kept away from decorations and other combustible materials. Check candles often to ensure they don't burn down too far or drip hot wax. Never leave burning candles unattended.
  


• Plug cooking appliances directly into an outlet. Never use an extension cord for a cooking appliance, as it can overload the circuit and cause a fire.
  
  
• Never use a range or an oven in your home as a supplemental heating device. Not only is it a fire safety hazard, it can be a source of potentially toxic fumes.
  
  
• Inspect walls and ceiling near your furnace and along the chimney line. If the wall is hot or discolored, additional pipe insulation or clearance may be required.
  

We recommend that local residents and business owners post these tips in a common area, such as the refrigerator door, office, kitchen, or near the utility closet, our foremost concern is the safety of our customers and those in our neighborhood. We hope that people will find this information useful, follow the precautions, and spread the word to their families and friends."

If property is damaged by a fire, smoke, or odor during holiday festivities, or any time, it is important to call a restoration professional immediately. On call 24 hours a day, even on holidays, , PuroClean of Seattle reminds everyone the faster the response to a property damaged by fire and smoke, the greater the chance of saving property and possessions and minimizing claims.

PuroClean of Seattle is ready to take care of all your needs, please give us a call 24/7 at (206) 729- PURO (7876).

Servicing: Federal Way, Tukwila, Des Moines, Burien, Sea Tac, West Seattle, Seattle, Queen Anne, Capitol Hill, Magnolia, Ballard, Shoreline, Lynnwood, Edmonds, Mukilteo, and Surrounding Areas

Properly treating storm water damage

Natural disasters, regardless of their scope, are all unpredictable, potentially dangerous events. But among all of the damage they are known to cause, one of the most detrimental and often overlooked consequences of the storm can be the adverse health effects it causes its victims.

"Most people are so preoccupied with salvaging their personal belongings after a storm that they do not realize that the water damage done to their homes or businesses can result in serious health complications," said Paul Buse-Bing, owner of PuroClean of Seattle. Buse-Bing is bringing attention to this matter in awareness of National Indoor Toxic Mold Awareness Month, which takes places this September.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), mold growth can begin within 24 to 48 hours following a flood, which means a small window of opportunity exists to conduct the restoration process. If left untreated, mold can result in a host of health issues ranging from less serious symptoms like eye irritation and congestion, to critical effects such as respiratory dysfunction and liver damage.

"When it comes to remediating water damage, people in the Seattle area must remember to act quickly and efficiently," said Buse-Bing. "Otherwise, they risk exposing themselves and their family to the toxic effects of mold, which only worsen over time if left untreated."

Buse-Bing recommends that Seattle residents take note of the following tips, provided by the CDC, which should be implemented immediately after water damage has occurred:

Remove Standing Water- Standing water is a breeding ground for microorganisms, which, if inhaled, can cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Therefore, all standing water should be removed as quickly as possible. In addition, be sure to open all doors and windows, and use fans to further dry out the building if weather and security permits.

Dry Out Your Home- According to Buse-Bing, things that have stayed wet for two days or more may have mold growing on them, even if you can't see it. Consider discarding porous, non-cleanable items such as carpeting and carpet padding, upholstery, wallpaper, drywall, floor and ceiling tiles, insulation material and clothing.

Clean Thoroughly- Thoroughly clean mold off of hard surfaces such as floors, stoves, sinks, toys, countertops, flatware and tools. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaners, as they can create toxic fumes and deadly agents. Also, be sure to wear rubber boots, rubber gloves, eye protection and an N95 mask when cleaning.

"The order in which these actions are performed is important, so removing standing water should always be a priority," added Buse-Bing. "Regardless of the extent of the damage, lingering moisture will allow mold to thrive, and that mold can penetrate materials and then be released into the air."

Buse-Bing notes that depending on the size of the project, professional intervention may be required to ensure that the property is thoroughly dried. Businesses that offer property emergency services, such as PuroClean of Seattle, can offer full mold remediation and deodorization services in conjunction with drying assistance.

"Although mold may be recognizable by sight or smell, residents in the Seattle area should never assume they are safe," said Buse-Bing."Natural disasters can be devastating, but quick thinking following the storm can go a long way to protecting your family's health."

PuroClean of Seattle is ready to take care of all your needs, please give us a call 24/7 at (206) 729- PURO (7876).

Servicing: Federal Way, Tukwila, Des Moines, Burien, Sea Tac, West Seattle, Seattle, Queen Anne, Capitol Hill, Magnolia, Ballard, Shoreline, Lynnwood, Edmonds, Mukilteo, and Surrounding Areas