Originally Posted By WTOL: Link

Over two inches of rain impacted a portion of our area Saturday, leading to residential flooding and water damage for some home owners.

Cousino Restoration in Perrysburg has been dealing with emergency damage situations for decades. Co-owner Michael Cousino said water damage is a problem many homeowners face every year.

“Every 100 homes, there’s going to be about two of them homes per 100 that are going to flood a year,” he said.

Cousino said the two main problems people face is a failing sump pump or a clogged drain.

A sump pump is a common way to remove water from your home and Cousino said investing in a good one is some of the best insurance you can have in addition to home owners insurance coverage. He said people should check on them ahead of heavy rain events.

Test Fire Protection Equipment

It's important for your team to do what they can to prevent building fires, but don't forget about your responsibilities too. One of the most important precautions for property and facility managers and owners is testing the fire protection equipment. You might have the proper fire sprinkler systems, fire extinguishers, smoke, and carbon monoxide detectors installed, but that doesn't mean they will work in the event of an emergency. These fire systems must be regularly tested and inspected. 

Fire Sprinkler Systems
​In the winter, it's especially important to check in on the fire sprinkler system because the pipes are at risk of freezing. This could cost you thousands in damage, and even worse, your system might not work if there is a fire.

Fire Extinguishers
Make sure you're checking fire extinguishers every 30 days to ensure that the gauge is pointing to the green area. 

Smoke Detectors
In a fire, every second counts. Smoke alarms should be installed in every room, hallway, and on every level of the building. Proper testing of fire alarm systems can save dollars and lives. 

These simple tips can help keep your buildings and properties safe. But disasters will happen, so be prepared and call Cousino Medical Services! 

Before the harshness of winter hits, here are a few tips to prepare for the worst. A little preparation can help you get through winter with as little damage or wear and tear as possible.

Heating System
You will want to maintain your indoor temperatures in order for your equipment and employees to function optimally. If you do your own maintenance, now is the time to look for worn or damaged parts and clean out accumulated dust or dirt. If you use a service, schedule a cleaning. If you have generators, make sure they’re operational and ready to take over if needed.

​We will work alongside you and your team to create an Emergency Response Program (ERP) for your unique property. Having a plan in place gives our team the information we need to operate more efficiently once a disaster strikes, saving time and money.

​This plan allows us to gather advanced knowledge on your property before disaster strikes so we can respond quickly and take immediate action in restoring the property faster, thus saving you costs, headaches, and protecting you from downstream liability. Having an ERP in place also guarantees you priority response in the event of an area wide weather related disaster. 

Not having a plan in place could mean increased severity of damage, higher costs, completion delays, secondary damage and unhappy occupants or lost tenants, and most importantly, lost revenue.

By putting an ERP into place, Cousino Medical Services will be there for you before, during, and after the loss providing above and beyond service to: 

1. Gather advanced knowledge on your property before a disaster can happen. 
2. Mitigate damage quickly and correctly during the restoration process. 
3. Meet with you after restoration is completed so you understand what actions were taken and why.