If you have a fire or water emergency, please call us now at (705) 733-7767

To have the optimal experience while using this site, you will need to update your browser. You may want to try one of the following alternatives:

Fire & Water - Cleanup & Restoration

Archived Blog Posts

Barrie 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

9/1/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO green and orange van parked in front of suburban residence. SERVPRO of Barrie provides 24 hour fire and water damage restoration service in Barrie

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

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today - 705-733-7767

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

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

  • Your name and contact information
  • Your insurance information (if applicable)
  • The street address of the water-damaged home or business
  • When did the flooding or water damage occur?
  • What caused the water damage (if known)?
  • Is there electricity available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO of Barrie

SERVPRO of Barrie specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff are highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff are equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

How To Prepare Your Business For Storm Season

8/18/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Logo centered at top of picture, with the words 'Be Ready For Whatever Happens' in bold, capital letters underneath. SERVPRO - Be ready for whatever happens!

Partner with SERVPRO to Develop Your Personalized Emergency READY Profile (ERP) and Prepare for a Fast Response to Flood Damage

Although storm season is a yearly certainty, merely knowing the damaging heavy rainfall and winds are possible does not limit the effect of a storm that strikes close to you. Devastating damage can still threaten closure and loss of business. No restoration company can stop a tropical storm from causing structural damage and flooding, but our forward-thinking mitigation and remediation experts can assess your property’s vulnerabilities and put together a blueprint of the most effective way our restoration crews can respond to get you back to business fast and make it "Like it never even happened."®

How Does the Emergency Ready Profile and Plan (ERP) Work?

Put yourself in control of your business’ flooding damage by taking proactive action. Invite our trained and experienced project managers to come and assess your structural layout so we can create a plan that you can use to assist against potential flooding damage in two distinct ways:

We look for ways your current operation can be reconfigured to limit the effects of flood damage:

• Storing documents off-site or in water-proof containers
• Converting records to a digital form
• Raising equipment off of the floor
• Protecting inventory by choosing safer spaces for storage in your building, containment, or periodic off-site storage

We familiarize ourselves with your layout and ways of operating, and identify the likely path of flood waters entering and the best operational path towards mitigation:

• Label utility shut-offs
• Note recesses and building cavities that could trap water
• Develop a response plan with your input

• Clarify that SERVPRO is your preferred restoration company

• Define the reconstruction costs associated with different levels of damage, so you can plan ahead of disasters and have response funds in place for quick mitigation and restoration
• Provide contact information for vendors and contractors who developed your space and systems
• Designate individuals whom you authorize to act on your behalf if you are unavailable during the crisis

Work with SERVPRO of Barrie to create a comprehensive ERP and ride out this storm season, knowing you are well-prepared for any disaster. Call (705) 733-7767 now to schedule your no-obligation assessment.

Getting Your Home Ready For Winter

11/5/2019 (Permalink)

Since severe weather has made an appearance across the country for this winter’s arrival, it is only right that we give you awesome, point-form TIPS on how to keep your family homes safe

Tips for Preparing Your Home for Winter Weather

  • Keep cabinet doors open during cold spells. This allows warm air to circulate around pipes
  • Keep a slow trickle of water flowing through the faucets, especially if the pipes for those faucets run through unheated or non-insulated areas of your home.
  • Consider shutting off outdoor faucets. Find the shut-off valve in the basement or crawl space and turn it to "off".
  • If you follow the previous step, then open the outdoor faucet to help ensure it drains completely and the inner valve is shut off.
  • Ensure gutters are clean and secure. Leaves and debris accumulate, causing a damming effect on gutters, which could lead to roof problems and water damage.
  • Proper, professional and seasonal maintenance of your furnace can help reduce the risk of puff backs.

Whether you take these actions or not to prepare your home for severe and cold winter weather, be sure to have your local experts at SERVPRO of Barrie’s contact information nearby, for fast-acting help if needed. Call us on our Emergency Hotline for immediate support 24/7 at (705) 733-7767, and we will make it ‘Like It Never Even Happened’!

Choose The Right Restoration Company For Your Home

10/16/2019 (Permalink)

Unexpected home damage is always a shock for homeowners. It can be difficult to determine what to do next or how to react in the moment.

That is why, we always recommend that homeowners plan ahead for these types of situations, so if the damage occurs, they’ll know immediately who to call. But how do you know you’re choosing the right restoration company?

There is a lot of information surrounding the restoration industry, so it is important to narrow it down by determining what is actually important. Here are some key points to consider when making your choice:

Their Areas of Expertise

It is not uncommon for home damages to require more than one aspect of restoration. For example, cleaning up fire damage involves ridding the air of toxic particles and water damage often involves restoring structures. SERVPRO of Barrie is certified and experienced in all aspects of damage, making us the forefront leader in making sure all of your needs are met and exceeded, from start to finish.

Their Night and Weekend Availability

Damages have a knack for occurring at the most inconvenient times, so it is important to pick a company that will be there whenever you call. Because we have a 247 emergency line, we are able to guarantee we’ll always be there when you need us.

Their Level of Training

It is important for a company to invest in the training of their technicians to guarantee they will be prepared for any damage situation that arises. The restoration industry has high standards for training, which is what we use as our guideline for all educational materials.

Their Ability to Scale

Because we are a local franchise with a massive network of 1700 other locations in North America alone, SERVPRO of Barrie can scale as needed for larger disasters. This ensures that we can treat a single-home fire with the same level of care as we would a city-wide disaster; providing exceptional service in both cases.

If you have experienced storm damage, we are always here to help! Call our restoration experts 24/7  so we can address your damages quickly and make it ‘Like It Never Even Happened’.

Disaster Recovery Team

9/25/2019 (Permalink)

The SERVPRO Disaster Recovery Team is here to help! Whether you are dealing with a tornado, hurricane, blizzard, flood or major fire, the SERVPRO Team is comprised of a giant network of strategically positioned storm teams, who are on standby 24/7, 365, should a disaster strike near you. Making sure to be ‘Faster to Any Size Disaster!’

With the ability to mobilize local command centers, along with the resources of more than 1,700 Franchises across North America, no disaster is too big or too much.

SERVPRO of Barrie has a disaster recovery team transport truck packed with equipment and gear that allows us to be ready to attack whenever and whatever mother nature throws at you. With our crew of highly trained and skilled professionals, natural disasters are no match for us.

We are proud to do business with honesty, respect and unparalleled expertise. SERVPRO of Barrie will make your disaster "Like it never even happened." 

When Water Damage Strikes Fast, SERVPRO of Barrie Strikes Back Faster!

9/16/2019 (Permalink)

Speed is KEY when dealing with water damage events. The longer water has to seep into your floors, walls and furniture, the more exposed you are to further damages from mold and rotting. Prolonged water soaking could make your home or business uninhabitable for quite some time, meaning you will spend that much more time out of your living or working space. SERVPRO of Barrie is ‘Faster to Any Size Disaster’ so that we can mitigate any further damages or harm caused from water damage events, getting you back into your home or business as quickly and safely as possible.

Our expert SERVPRO technicians get to work mediating water damage in your home immediately upon arrival; determining saturation levels and densely penetrated water damage areas to focus on. This ensures the least amount of total and potential future damages caused by disaster water events and gets you back in your home or business as fast and confidently as possible.

Our goal for you is to minimize the damages and return your property to its preloss state, as quickly and efficiently as possible. We do this by employing water extraction, evaporation, and dehumidification procedures. All the while, ensuring that you and your house or business are respected and well-treated throughout the entire process, leaving you feeling relaxed and confident that your space will be returned to its original state and that you will be covered from any potential future harm or damages caused by that event.

SERVPRO of Barrie covers all of your residential and commercial needs, from emergency restoration and repairs to cleaning and maintenance. For immediate or emergency assistance, please call (705) 733-7767 and allow our expert and professional technicians make your property “Like it never even happened.”

Commercial Fires: Main Focus Points

9/9/2019 (Permalink)

If a fire breaks out in your commercial building, you may very well be overwhelmed with what to do next. Keep in mind, that most of the things that need to be done immediately are the job of the fire restoration team. There are three main things you need to focus on after the fire has been put out:

  1. The Calls to Make

Your insurance company needs to know what happened to your building. Give your agent a call so an adjuster can come out and survey the fire damage. More importantly, start mitigating your loss as soon as possible by calling your restoration experts at SERVPRO of Barrie to start the cleanup process. They can arrive just a few hours after you call, and they can help you with your insurance claim by mitigating the loss as much as possible early-on and will provide an estimate for the repair costs.

  1. Do Nothing

It can be difficult to watch your workspace being affected by fire and water damage and do nothing, but that is exactly what you need to do. Your fire restoration professionals have the training and experience needed to address the damage safely, promptly and correctly. If you try to do it on your own, you may put yourself in danger or make the problem even worse.

  1. Have Your Building Secured

A fire can leave your building vulnerable. Windows are likely broken, and your roof has probably sustained fire and smoke damage. It is important to secure your building during the cleaning and repair process. Make sure to ask for board-up services when your SERVPRO of Barrie technicians arrive. They can securely cover broken windows and put tarps on your roof to keep out rain, debris, animals and looters.

Fire restoration duties mainly fall under the purview of the experts, but as the building's owner, these are the few things that you can do to make the process go more smoothly. With timely reporting and responsible treatment, you can expect a faster resolution to your fire damage problem.

Preparing Your Commercial Building for Potential Storms

9/9/2019 (Permalink)

When a storm rolls into Simcoe County, will your building be able to withstand Mother Nature? Being prepared in advance with exterior maintenance is a good way to ensure that you will be ready for the unexpected. Here are five steps to help your business handle even the worst storms:

  1. Know Your Enemy

Know the types of storms that are likely to affect your building and the area it is located in. The more informed you are about the meteorological conditions you can expect to see in your geographical area, the better you can tailor your building’s exterior maintenance needs to withstand potential damages caused by those conditions.

  1. SWOT Analysis

Once you have a better understanding of what kind of climate to expect, it is time to assess your building’s exterior and evaluate its strengths and weaknesses. Focus especially on the integrity of your windows and doors, as these can be the most vulnerable to damage. Analyze your drainage pipes and gutters, ensuring that they are all clear, so that you are prepared for excessive storm water. Any outstanding potential threats/weaknesses should also be addressed immediately, as there is no way to predict potential storms and what damages they could bring.

  1. Fix the Flaws

After you have taken a good look at your facility, focus on reinforcing and strengthening the exterior. Keeping your building maintained will go a long way towards minimizing damages sustained during a storm. Consult your SERVPRO of Barrie professionals who have the storm damage expertise, to ensure that all of your bases have been covered.

  1. Prepare for the Worst, Hope for the Best

Have your SERVPRO team setup your tailored Emergency Ready Plan, so that they can arrive ‘Faster to Any Size Disaster’ and minimize potential future damages with their risk mitigation and repairs. This thorough Emergency Ready Plan will also provide you with a detailed list of locations and instructions on which shut-off valves and electric panels you should access, as well as providing your staff with Emergency Exit Routes and Assembly Points to head to for safety during a storm.

  1. Stay Alert

You now have a solid plan in place, and your building has been reinforced in preparation for the worst. Keep alert and check daily for signs of storms and other bad weather heading your way, so that you can act immediately at the first signs of danger.

Keeping your building maintained and prepared means that you have taken more than the appropriate measures in mitigating potential damages caused by storms. Stay watchful but rest peacefully, knowing that you have taken the appropriate precautions and that you are covered by your SERVPRO of Barrie team!

Commercial Fire & Smoke Damage

9/3/2019 (Permalink)

Fire damage is just the beginning when your commercial or office building catches fire. Smoke and fire do more damage than most people realize. More often than not, it is unsafe to enter your place of business even after a fire has been put out, because there could be major structural damage. It is crucial for smoke and fire damage to be mitigated as soon as possible in order for the building to be returned to its safe, pre-fire condition.

Smoke Damage

The types of materials that are burned in a commercial fire leave behind powerful odors. Electronics, carpets, plastic, metals, and engineered-wood furniture are all burned and create odors and ash that can corrode, etch and discolor as well as cling to the remaining structure. These types of fumes from fire seep into the walls and floors and may contaminate the indoor air much later if they are not removed. These cannot be removed with a typical cleaner. It takes special equipment and the expertise of professionals to mitigate smoke damage, so the building is odor-free.

The different types of damage include:

  • Metals that tarnish or corrode
  • Plastics that melt and change color
  • Fiberglass that cracks
  • Wood that may need refinishing/replacing  
  • Finishes on appliances that turn yellow

The situation worsens the longer you wait to call a professional mitigation contractor. After the fire is out, the smoke and ash remain. It is also more cost-effective to get the repair started as soon as possible. Even if the fire damage is contained in a small part of your commercial building or office space, smoke damage can permeate a greater area.

Getting Smoke Damage Cleaned

Smoke and heat will distribute ash through the home and it can remain in cracks and crevices. One of the best ways to remove smoke odor is through thermal fogging. This technique opens the pores in the walls and floors to neutralize the odor from the smoke that has entered deep into them. Then, use dehumidifiers and high-powered fans to thoroughly dry the water damage cause from putting out the fire.

Professionals Know the Job

The best fire-damage professionals are expertly trained and certified by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). They take extensive coursework to get their certification. They will identify all the affected materials in your home and find the source of any odors. Experts know what can be salvaged and what needs to be discarded. They use specialized detergents that have been designed to treat specific types of odor.

Professionals can also increase the possibility of saving property rather than needing to replace it, and they can clean out your vents and ducts. Some of the services offered are:

  • Removal of smoke and odor
  • Cleaning and sanitizing
  • Professional deodorization
  • Temporary protection of surfaces already cleaned
  • Removal of carpets and pads if required

Fire damage is devastating, but it is not over when the fire is out. To get your business back to pre-damaged condition, professional fire and smoke mitigation is essential.

SERVPRO of Barrie is proud to serve Simcoe County and surrounding area. Based out of Barrie and with the full backing of our corporate partners, we are always 'Faster to Any Size Disaster'.

Our fully certified, expert staff can perform a complete damage assessment to your commercial building, warehouse or office area, and implement top-industry standards to get your workspace restored to its original state, ‘Like It Never Even Happened’.

SERVPRO of Barrie is a 24/7 emergency restoration, repair and cleaning company. Our technicians are highly trained and experienced with every fire and water damage situation; from water leakage to total flooding, fire, smoke and mould damage, and catastrophic events cleanup and restoration.

Commercial Mould Removal

8/10/2019 (Permalink)

A recent call from a restauranteur to check out an old restaurant he purchased in hopes of giving it a new life resulted in quite a large mold job for SERVPRO. Upon entering this abandoned space, it became clear immediately this was a mould remediation job for the experts! So we went to work! With mold covering the walls, the bar area, baseboards and crown “mold”ing (pun intended), our crew had to suit up with PPE including respirators and Tyvec suits to be sure they were protected! Mold remediation is a very tedious job for a home but when it is a commercial property like a restaurant, it is even more so.  Containment must be set up so as to not contaminated unaffected areas. All items with mold exposure had to be disposed of properly. And then at the end of the demo and clean up, an industrial hygienist was brought in to ensure that the commercial property checked out!

Mold remediation in a commercial property is a tedious yet rewarding job, especially when we get to see a building be brought back to life!

Common Water Issues for Businesses

8/5/2019 (Permalink)

7/28/2019 Water Issues

For a commercial property owner in Montgomery County, unexpected water problems can be a big issue. Fortunately, a water damage professional can help you assess, clean, and repair damages from any flooding or leaks you may have. Here are a few of the most common water problems a business may face from leaking pipes to foundation cracks.

1. Pipe Breaks

A pipe break can occur in a number of ways. Over time, the pipe can age and loosen in its fittings, or extensive use can lead to pinhole leaks. Extreme heat or cold can also affect a pipe’s integrity. A blocked pipe can lead to pressure buildup and eventually burst.

2. Plumbing Backup

Blocked plumbing can even lead to a toilet backup or sink overflow. When a pipe is blocked, water can take the shortest path out regardless of its intended flow path. Blockages can occur from a number of things, including the buildup of water minerals over time inside a pipe or someone pouring a solidifying material, such as plaster or grease, down a drain.

3. Weather

Extreme weather conditions can also lead to leaking pipes. Cold temperatures can cause the water in pipes to freeze and expand. The expansion puts pressure on the pipe and can create a crack or even cause it to burst altogether. If you know cold weather is coming, you can check with a local professional about what preventive measures to take.

4. Foundation Cracks

Foundation cracks can also become a problem leading to water damage. Water can seep through any cracks and pool, leading to further issues such as mold. Any cracks should be investigated and assessed as soon as possible to determine the best course of action.

Water damage can happen to a commercial property. Fortunately, a professional can fix the damage caused by leaking pipes, foundation cracks, backed up toilet, or weather, and help you repair your property.

Storm VS Flood

8/5/2019 (Permalink)

The most general distinction is that storm water comes from above, whereas flood water usually overspills natural bodies or courses of water and covers at least two acres of ordinarily dry land. Storm damage to a commercial property may originate from a variety of causes such as


• High winds
• Heavy rain
• Hurricanes
• Snow
• Tornadoes

Most business insurance plans provide protection from damage caused by storms. Property owners will need additional coverage to offset the expenses of flood damage. If your property is located on a flood plain, you should make sure you carry the policies necessary to protect your investment.

Flooding occurs when water overflows a body of water or watercourse such as

• Creeks
• Dams
• Lakes
• Storm-water channels

For water to be considered a flood, it must not only cover two acres but affect at least two properties. If a commercial property is located in a high-risk zone and the owner has a mortgage from an insured and federally-regulated lender, he or she is required to maintain flood insurance. Damage resulting from either flooding or storms can cause severe problems and should be planned for, prevented, and handled as soon as possible. Regardless of the source of moisture, the risk of mold and other secondary damage within a building can be just as severe.

Restoring Damage From Storms and Floods

Restoration specialists can help property owners determine the precise causes of damage and the best solutions. If a commercial property in Barrie On experiences flood damage or sustains damage during a storm, contact a commercial damage restoration company as soon as possible

Property owners may have a hard time differentiating storm damage from flood damage. Commercial properties can sustain water damage from either source. There are a few major differences to keep in mind that may help you manage these risks. 

Storms don't last forever, but the damage can!

8/2/2018 (Permalink)

When storms or floods hit, SERVPRO of Barrie is READY!

Storm and flood damage require specialized restoration techniques and equipment. Lucky for you, the staff here at SERVPRO have both! Since we are locally owned and operated and open 24/7, we can respond quickly which is key. A faster response can limit damage and save you in the long run. Let us make it " "Like it never even happened." Contact us for any of your storm and flood needs 705-733-7767

When to use a Fire Extinguisher

1/16/2018 (Permalink)

Do you know where the closest fire extinguisher is in your home or place of work?! And more importantly, do you know how to use it? Both of these things are very important to know so you know what to do in case of an emergency and to keep you safe. Listed below are some tips on when to use a fire extinguisher during an emergency.

  1. The outside of the extinguisher is clean, and all parts are operable and not damaged or restricted
  2. You have identified an escape, and the fire is not between you and the route
  3. You have alerted other occupants, and someone has called the fire department
  4. You are safe from the toxic smoke produced by the fire
  5. The fire is contained to a single object, such as a wastebasket

These tips are good to know so you can safely use a fire extinguisher. It is also good to familiarize yourself with the location of the fire extinguisher in your home and workplace. Stay safe!

Frozen Pipes

1/15/2018 (Permalink)

Living in Canada, we know that those temperatures can fluctuate in the winter months. We also know how cold it can get, which can lead to bursting pipes in our home. It is important to be aware of this and to know why it is happening. Also, to know ways in which to prevent it and what to do in case this does happen…

Why frozen water will burst your pipes

Unprotected pipes are susceptible to cold temperature because water expands when it goes from liquid to solid for

  • A gallon of water, when frozen, will expand to a volume 9% greater than the original gallon
  • Ice blockage becomes more likely when outside temperatures drop to below freezing
  • A cold wind reaching unprotected pipes quickly removes heat and increases the chance of ice formation
  • Water pressure that builds between the ice blockage and a closed faucet can burst the pipe

Tips to avoid bursting pipes

  • Wrap outside faucets
  • Caulk around pipes where they enter the house
  • Disconnect garden hoses
  • Drain in-ground sprinkler systems
  • Let a stream of water run, if the temperature dips below freezing
  • Open cupboard doors in the kitchen and bathrooms
  • Shut off and drain your water system if you are leaving home for several days

In case of frozen pipes

  • Keep the faucet dripping
  • Apply heat to affected section of pipe with a heating pad or hair dryer
  • Apply heat until full water pressure is restored
  • If you still have trouble, call a licensed plumber
  • And if further damage is done, call us at SERVPRO of Barrie

7 Highly Effective Portable Heater Safety Habits

1/4/2018 (Permalink)

In these cold winter months many of us find it hard to stay warm; our sweaters, wool socks and blankets just aren’t cutting it. So, we resort to other methods to fix the problem. One common method is a portable heater; especially for those sitting at a desk all day! If you are using a portable heater, here are some effective safety habits to keep in mind…

    1. Keep all sides of the heater at least 3 feet from beds, clothes, curtains, papers, sofas, and other items that can catch fire
    2. Never fun the heater’s cord under rugs or carpeting and never power the heater with an extension cord or power strip
    3. Make sure the heater is not near water. NEVER touch it if you are wet
    4. Place the heater on a stable, level, surface, located where it will not be knocked over
    5. Never leave the heater operating while unattended or while you are sleeping
    6. If the heater’s cord or plug is HOT, disconnect the heater and contact an authorized repair person. If any part of the outlet is hot, contact a certified electrician
    7. Check SaferProducts.gov to see if your electric heater has been recalled

Home Safety Tips around the Holidays

12/20/2017 (Permalink)

The holidays are an exciting time of year! However, some of us get so wrapped up in the excitement that we can forget important tips to keep our homes safe.

Listed below are some helpful tips on how to keep yourself, your family, and your house safe this holiday season...

  • Use clips to safely attach lights to the house
  • Inspect your lights before you hang them
  • Replace out lights
  • Never connect more then 3 strings of lights at a time
  • Be mindful of low-hanging or damaged wires to protect pets and children
  • Use ladder safety when putting up or taking down your holiday decorations
  • Never plug more than two appliances into an outlet at once or “piggyback” extra appliances on extension cords or wall outlets
  • Remember to keep candle flames far away from decorations, ornaments and especially trees
  • When building a fire to keep cozy, test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, burn only dry, split firewood (avoid chemically treated wood), and close damper when fireplace is not in use

Happy Holidays from everyone at SERVPRO Barrie! Stay safe :)

We are IICRC Certified!

12/20/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Barrie is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo. What does this all mean!? Read for more information below and why it is important for our company to be an IICRC firm…

IICRC Certified Firms must

  • Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.
  • Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.
  • Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.
  • Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.
  • Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration. 


    The IICRC Develops the Standards for The Restoration Industry 

    The IICRC has been the driving force in establishing the main industry standards and references guides for professional carpet cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation. These IICRC standards take years to develop and require the coordination of experts in the field: manufactures, industry organizations, insurance professionals, training schools, contractors, and public health professionals.

    Every five years, the standards are reviewed and updated. The water damage restoration filed changes rapidly with advancements in technology and science, and therefore the standards must evolve to keep pace.


    What you need to know about SERVPRO of Barrie…

    SERVPRO of Barrie specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: from initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO's corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. "Like it never even happened."

Emergency Dos and Don'ts

12/20/2017 (Permalink)

We are always ready!

What would you do if you were ever in an emergency? Step 1 would be to call SERVPRO of Barrie to help right away with your restoration needs. However, there are certain, and very important dos and don’ts in case of a water or fire emergency that you should or shouldn’t do until we arrive. Let us help you out by listing these dos and don’ts in case you ever are in these situations.

In case of an emergency water damage, pay attention to the following tips:

Do’s

- shut off the water source if possible or contact a qualified party to stop the water source

- turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building when access to the power distribution panel is safe from electrical shock

- remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting

- place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting

- move any paintings, art objects, computers, documents, and other sensitive valuables to a dry place

Don’ts

-don’t enter affected areas if electrical outlets, switches, circuit breakers, or electrical equipment are exposed to water. Always avoid electrical shock hazards

- don’t use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water; this could cause electrical shock or damage to the vacuum cleaner

- don’t turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet or enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water

In case of an emergency fire damage, pay attention to the following tips:

Do’s

-limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into carpet and avoid tracking

- keep hands clean. Soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls, and woodwork

- if electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator completely and prop doors open to help prevent odor

- wipe soot from metal kitchen and bathroom faucets, trim and appliances

Don’ts

-don’t attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without first contacting SERVPRO of Barrie Professionals

- don’t attempt to shampoo carpet, rugs, or upholstered furniture without first consulting SERVPRO of Barrie

- don’t attempt to clean any electrical appliances (TV sets, radios, etc.) that may have been close to fire, heat, or water without first consulting an authorized repair service