Storm Flooding in San Mateo and the Bay Area

2/2/2018 (Permalink)

Flooding Caused by Excessive Rainfall During Storms

After a storm or natural disaster, the aftermath can be detrimental to you both emotionally and financially.  Storm cleanup and water damage restoration to your property can be stressful without the help of qualified technicians leading the way. With storm season approaching us, rain and high winds can affect San Mateo and other parts of the Bay Area. When these winter storms occur, there’s a possibly of power outages in your area due to winds knocking down electrical poles or other causes.

It is important for families to be prepared for a power outage that may last for several hours or days after a heavy storm. The National Public Service campaign, Ready Campaign, has shared the following tips regarding power outage:

Before a Power Outage:

• Build or restock your emergency preparedness kit, including a flashlight, batteries, casa, and first aid supplies.
• Make sure you have alternate charging methods for your phone or any device that requires power.
• Charge cell phones and any battery powered devices.
• Know where the manual release lever of your electric garage door is located and know how to operate it.
• Learn about the emergency plans that have been establish in your community.

During a Power Outage:

• Avoid using candles which can cause fires. Only use flashlight for emergency lighting.
• Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed. Most food requiring refrigeration can be kept safely in a closed refrigerator for about four hours. A full freezer will keep the temperature for about 48 hours.
• Put on layers of warm clothing if it is cold outside. Never burn charcoal for heating or cooking indoors.
• Only use generators away from your home, and NEVER run a generator inside a home or garage, or connect it to your home’s electrical system. Consult an electrician or engineer before purchasing and installing a generator.

After a Power Outage:

• Throw away any food that has been exposed to temperatures of 40*F (4*C) for two hours or more. When in doubt, throw it away.
• If food in freezer is colder than 40*F and has ice crystals on it, you can refreeze it.
• Contact your doctor if you’re concerned about medication having spoiled.
• Store at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food. 
• Choose foods your family will eat.
• Remember any special dietary needs.
• Avoid foods that will make you thirsty.

The following items are suggested when selecting emergency food supplies. You may already have many of these on hand.

• Salt-free crackers, whole grain cereals, and canned foods with high liquid content
• Ready-to-eat canned meats, fruits, vegetables and a can opener
• Protein or fruit bars
• Dry cereal or granola
• Peanut butter
• Dried fruit
• Nuts
• Crackers
• Canned juices
• Non-perishable pasteurized milk
• High energy foods
• Vitamins
• Food for infants
• Comfort/stress foods
• Don’t forget to pack a can opener and other utensils needed!

For more information and tips on how to prepare for and respond to an emergency visit

 https://www.ready.gov/about-us

SERVPRO of San Mateo has the experience, the expertise, and the advanced training that enables us to get your property restored quickly and thoroughly. For your emergency restoration services call us 24/7 for prompt service. (650) 931-6060.