Has your commercial property in California suffered from a fire? If the answer is yes, and you are planning on seeking help from a licensed fire damage restoration company, you’re already on the right track. However, it's also important to keep your building safe in the meantime. Beyond the immediate damage, there are additional risks such as looting and structural instability to consider. According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), nearly 40 percent of businesses do not reopen after a disaster, often because of secondary damage like looting. Here are some tips to help you protect your commercial building after a fire.
Secure All Entry Points
One of the first steps you should take is to secure all entry points to prevent any unauthorized access and looting. Here’s how to do it effectively:
Board Up Windows and Doors
Use plywood or metal panels to cover broken windows and doors. This not only prevents looters from entering but also protects your property from weather elements.
Lock Remaining Entry Points
Ensure that all remaining doors and windows are securely locked. It’s important to reinforce any weak points to make it harder for intruders to break in.
Pro Tip: For added security, consider using security film on windows. It’s a cost-effective way to reinforce glass against break-ins and harsh weather.
Install Temporary Fencing
Temporary fencing is an effective way to secure the perimeter of your property. It acts as a physical barrier to deter unauthorized individuals from accessing your building. Temporary fencing is quick to set up and provides an immediate deterrent to potential looters. Remember to make sure the fencing is sturdy and high enough to prevent easy access.Placing visible warning signs around the perimeter to indicate that the area is under surveillance and that trespassing is prohibited.
Advanced Security Measures
Depending on the level of risk in your area, you may need to implement more advanced security measures to protect your property.
If your building is in a high-risk area, it may be a good idea to consider hiring a security company to monitor the premises, especially during off-hours. A high-tech alarm system with motion detectors and security cameras also help monitor your property and alert you to any suspicious activity. Try a security system that allows you to monitor your property remotely. This way, you keep an eye on your building even when you’re not physically present.
Begin Restoration Immediately
While securing your property is important, starting the restoration process as soon as possible is equally as important. Delaying the restoration process leads to more damage and even more expensive repair costs. Hiring professional fire damage restoration services, such as JGB Restoration, ensures that your property is restored safely and efficiently.
First, the experts conduct a detailed inspection to understand the extent of the damage. Once the assessment is complete, they begin the cleanup process by safely removing debris and damaged materials from the site. This step is crucial to prevent any potential hazards and also prepare the area for restoration.
Next, they focus on drying out any water-damaged areas. Water used to extinguish the fire leads to mold growth and structural damage if not properly addressed. Using advanced drying equipment, the experts ensure that any moisture is thoroughly removed to prevent future issues.
In addition to debris removal and drying, companies such as JGB Restoration also handles odor removal and sanitization. Smoke and soot leave behind unpleasant odors and harmful soot residues. The professionals use advanced techniques and equipment to eliminate any unpleasant odors and clean all affected surfaces.
Why Choose JGB Restoration?
- Over 15 Years of Experience: Our team has extensive experience in fire damage restoration, ensuring an efficient and effective restoration.
- 24/7 Emergency Services: We provide around-the-clock services to address emergencies promptly.
- Quick Response Time: We guarantee a response time of 60 minutes or less.
- Local Expertise: As a locally owned and operated business in Orange County, we understand the specific needs of our community.
- Insurance Assistance: We bill directly to your insurance company, making the claims process easier for you.
Protecting Your Investment
Protecting your commercial building after a fire involves securing entry points, installing temporary fencing, implementing advanced security measures, and beginning restoration immediately. If your commercial building has suffered fire damage, don’t hesitate to contact JGB Restoration. Our team is always ready to provide comprehensive fire damage cleanup and restoration services. Give us a call today!