Water Damage Restoration in Fort Worth, TX
Owning a home or business is one of the hallmarks of living the American Dream. While there are many fulfilling and positive aspects of owning property, one of the challenges that owners face is property damage. This type of damage can be caused by a range of disasters, both man-made and natural. Of all the types of property damage, water damage is among the most common.
Whether from broken pipes or heavy thunderstorms, it doesn't take a professor from Texas Christian University in Fort Worth to know that water damage can be incredibly harmful to your home. Water can spread quickly throughout your property, causing damage to furniture and porous materials as it moves. In the blink of an eye, you could be looking at substantial rotting, warping, and even mold growth. That's why water damage restoration in Fort Worth, TX is so important - to mitigate the damage to your home and help prevent it from happening in the future.
Trying to overcome flooding and other water-related disasters on your own can seem like a lost cause. But with Disaster Response by your side, you don't have to lose hope. As a local water damage clean-up company, we provide comprehensive restoration services to properties of all sizes in Fort Worth. From the first time we assess your water damage to the time we mitigate and restore, we're here for you.
Dealing with property damage can be overwhelming. You're likely concerned about a few key things:
Navigating the insurance claim process
We guide you through every step, ensuring you understand the process and get the most out of your claim.
Scheduling for a quick and quality completion
We provide a clear timeline for restoration, prioritizing both speed and quality, so you can get back to normal as soon as possible.
You might also be thinking about:
Ensuring the safety and health of your family or employees during the restoration: Our team takes all necessary precautions to protect the safety and health of everyone involved, using the latest techniques and equipment.
Understanding the full scope of the damage and what needs to be done:We conduct a thorough assessment of the damage and provide a detailed plan of action, so you know exactly what to expect.
Knowing the costs upfront and avoiding unexpected expenses: We provide transparent pricing and a detailed estimate before any work begins, so there are no surprises along the way.
Preventing future issues, such as mold growth or structural problems: We don't just fix the visible damage—we address the root causes to prevent future issues, giving you peace of mind.
Protecting your belongings and valuables from further damage: We take extra care to safeguard your possessions during the restoration process, minimizing any further impact.
Minimizing disruption to your daily life or business operations: We work efficiently and flexibly to reduce the disruption to your routine, allowing you to continue with your life or business as smoothly as possible.
Finding a trustworthy team to handle your property with care: Our experienced and highly-trained professionals treat your property as if it were their own, ensuring the highest standard of care.
Ensuring the job is done right the first time: We pride ourselves on doing the job right the first time, using industry-leading techniques and thorough quality checks to ensure lasting results.
Receiving clear communication and updates throughout the restoration process: We keep you informed every step of the way, providing regular updates and clear communication, so you're never left in the dark.
Ensuring the safety and health of your family or employees during the restoration: Our team takes all necessary precautions to protect the safety and health of everyone involved, using the latest techniques and equipment.
At Disaster Response, It's All About You
Like Fort Worth Botanic Garden in Fort Worth, Disaster Response has been a pillar of the community for years. As a second-generation disaster response company, we know that our work is never about us. At its most basic, it's always about you—your situation, your needs, and your satisfaction. We engineer our processes to help you quickly recover from water floods and disasters. Our total focus is on you, our valued customer. And that, in a nutshell, is what makes Disaster Response one of the most trusted and highly-rated water restoration companies in Fort Worth.
Instead of focusing on profit, bottom lines, and yearly projections, we make you our priority. That's why we're serious about providing expert-level disaster preparedness and response services when you need them the most. Could you imagine trying to decipher misleading fine print or dealing with a pushy salesperson when you're just trying to get your life back together? That's not the Disaster Response way, and it never will be.
We don't just clean up after water leaks, floods, or other disasters; we go above and beyond by providing a consultative approach that serves you for years to come. We assist you in dealing with insurance adjusters to ensure you get the coverage you deserve without unnecessary delays. We make it a point to meticulously review every detail of your claim and work hard to make sure adjusters understand the full extent of your losses. We can also provide guidance on how and when to engage a public adjuster to bypass inefficiencies in the insurance process. At the end of the day, we strive to provide peace of mind during your difficult time and work tirelessly to get your property back to its pre-loss condition.
The Disaster Response Difference
Professional Technicians, Technology, and Processes
In fact, we'll dispatch a team of water disaster technicians to you within three minutes. We'll also advise you on what can be done to minimize the water damage in your home or business. Our water damage restoration team will use cutting-edge technology and IICRC-approved methods to restore as much of your property as possible.
Insurance Advocacy
Disaster Response works one-on-one with you and your insurance provider to expedite the claims process and get your home back to normal as soon as possible.
Satisfaction Guaranteed
We're proud of our work and stand behind every project we complete. Our goal is to exceed expectations and provide peace of mind throughout every step of your water damage restoration process. If you're not satisfied for any reason, we'll listen to your concerns and work tirelessly to rectify any issues that need addressing.
Jeremy Dunaway
No Fuss Solutions
Disaster Response Introducing No Fuss Solutions: The Premier Choice for Emergency Clean-Up**
At Disaster 911, we're elevating the standard with ( No Fuss Solutions ), our trusted go-to contractor for emergency clean-up services. While others may settle for the status quo, ( No Fuss Solutions ) takes an innovative approach to restoration.
From water and fire damage to mold remediation, ( No Fuss Solutions ) doesn't just follow industry norms-they set new ones. Our rigorous vetting process ensures that ( No Fuss Solutions ) exceeds expectations, delivering cutting-edge solutions for your emergency needs.
When you choose Disaster 911 and ( No Fuss Solutions ), you're opting for a dynamic partnership that prioritizes effective, next-level recovery. Don't settle for the ordinary-when disaster strikes, choose the best in emergency response.
22803 Tuwa Rd, Tomball, TX 77375
Call UsYour Guide to Water Damage Restoration in Fort Worth, TX
Water damage restoration is a key step in remediating damage to your home, both structurally and aesthetically. Damage from water doesn't just affect the walls, floors, and ceilings in your home. It can also cause deeper issues that, when untreated, can weaken your foundation significantly and lead to long-term instability.
As if that weren't enough, water damage can present health hazards to your friends, family, and pets. Mold and bacteria can grow in damp areas after water incidents, causing allergies, respiratory problems, and even visits to Sunrise of Fort Worth in Fort Worth for examination. Ignoring water damage can also result in irreversible harm to your belongings, including furniture, electronics, and sentimental items, leading to financial loss and emotional distress. Professional water clean-up services can repair the damage to your property, help protect valuable assets, and re-establish your home or business as a safe, healthy environment for occupants.
What Makes Our Water Damage Company in Fort Worth, TX, Different from Others?
One of the most common questions we get at Disaster Response is, "What separates you from other water damage clean-up companies in Fort Worth?" The first and easiest answer to that question centers around our commitment to customer service. We hold our clients in high regard because, without them, there would be no Disaster Response. As such, we work tirelessly to provide them with quality work from friendly and helpful technicians, regardless of the size of their home or business.
But that's just the start. Our clients recommend friends and family to our business because we prioritize the following:
Cost
Investing in damage restoration for your home is a smart move that can help reduce long-term costs. The best part? Our services are covered by insurance companies, so there's less worry about paying out of pocket.
Technicians
Every member of our team has years of experience, specialized training, and certifications in handling water damage. We prioritize our customers' well-being and meticulously attend to every detail to prevent any potential mold-related issues in the future. From single-family homes to
Time
Water disasters happen quicker than you might think. One moment, you're enjoying family time at Trinity Park in Fort Worth. The next, you're pulling in your driveway to a flooded home. When you call our office, we'll get to work assessing the cause of your water damage and how extensive the water damage is in your home or business. From there, we'll dispatch a team of IICRC water damage restoration experts to your location.
Tools
Disaster Response has made significant investments in cutting-edge water damage equipment, including inspection tools that enable thorough water removal. Our technicians have undergone extensive training to operate these machines and know when and when not to use them.
Process
For over 40 years, we have been helping with water damage issues, refining our process along the way. We can quickly find hidden damages that others might miss and document everything for your insurance company.
Reliable Water Damage Restoration Network
We aren't afraid to ask for help if it means a safer, more enjoyable environment for your family or customers. In fact, we have access to a network of industry pros who are experts in a range of water damage services. To make your life a little easier, we also work with insurance professionals who assist with the claims process.
What Does Disaster Response Fix?
As an IICRC-certified water damage contractor in Fort Worth, TX, our technicians can address several areas of your home or business that have been damaged by a water disaster.
- Floors: It's very important to take the necessary time and steps to effectively dry your floors to prevent any potential water damage and mold growth in the future.
- Walls: Depending on the amount of water that enters your business or home, the structural integrity of your property may be at stake. Our technicians will evaluate the situation, inspect your property, and replace materials damaged by water.
- Rugs: If your rugs get wet during flooding or from another water disaster, they may be salvageable. We'll work hard to save all the rugs in your property.
- Furniture: Your furniture is probably expensive and may hold a certain level of sentimental value. Instead of throwing it away or donating it to Fort Worth Museum of Science and History in Fort Worth, we can repair and restore it.
Disaster Response specializes in every kind of damage caused by rain, wind, or snowstorms. We handle water damage, mold, mildew, and more, and can be at your home or office within an hour of your call to assess the situation and put a water damage restoration plan into action.
What Tools Does Disaster Response Use for Water Damage Clean-Up?
We only use the best equipment! With our extensive experience in the Fort Worth restoration industry, we've acquired state-of-the-art tools designed to tackle a wide range of challenges. This experience has also allowed our technicians to identify which type of equipment is best for a particular situation. Some of the most common water damage restoration tools we use include:
Infrared Cameras
Our infrared cameras give us the ability to see moisture in walls and ceilings that is not visible to the naked eye, almost like having "X-ray" vision. This capability allows us to detect and address trapped and hidden humidity, significantly reducing the risk of mold growth.
Moisture Meters
We use moisture meters to measure moisture levels in cellulose material. Before and after the drying process, we will conduct moisture readings in all areas of your property. If we detect moisture in an unaffected area of your building, we'll get to work quickly to dry it.
Air Movers
This equipment is designed to work in conjunction with our dehumidifiers. While our dehumidifiers extract moisture from the air and convert it to a liquid, our Air Mover helps to circulate this moisture in the air so that the dehumidifier can effectively remove it.
Ozone Generators
These advanced tools enable us to cleanse affected surfaces and the air in a more effective manner. Ozone Generators work by causing oxygen molecules to implode, making them a valuable deodorization tool.
Xtreme Xtractor
This tool is great for tackling tough moisture after water damage. It allows us to apply direct pressure to a surface, like a carpet, that has soaked up water. The pressure helps draw out the water, making it easier to remove.
Top 3 Types of Water Damage You Should Know About
Water damage can strike without warning and can wreak havoc on your property, leaving you feeling hopeless and overwhelmed. Whether it's from a burst pipe, a severe storm, or an overflowing appliance, your property needs immediate water damage clean-up in Fort Worth, TX, to prevent further harm. Here are the top three types of water damage you should know about:
Clean Water Damage
This type of water damage happens from a "clean" source, such as rainwater or a broken pipe in your home. It's easier to clean up than others on this list but can still cause extensive property damage when ignored.
Gray Water Damage
Gray water damage stems from appliances such as toilets without feces, washing machines, and dishwashers. Gray water sometimes contains bacteria and contaminants that can make you or your family sick.
Black Water Damage
The name alone indicates the severity of this type of water damage. It's caused by backed-up sewer lines, river flooding, and standing water that supports bacteria growth. Black water presents serious health hazards and needs to be handled by professional water damage contractors.
If you suspect your home or business has been damaged by one or more of the types of water above, take the following steps:
- Be Safe: Turn off all electricity running through your property. Don't go near or touch any water you believe to be contaminated.
- Stop the Source of Water: If you're able, put a stop to the water at its source. That way, you can prevent more damage.
- Call Disaster Response: Contact our water damage company ASAP for water restoration services. Our team is available 24/7 to respond to emergencies.
Our Process for Water Damage Restoration in Fort Worth, TX
Having a water damage restoration company by your side who knows how to remediate moisture is a key factor in getting your life back on track. At Disaster Response, we have refined our process over 40+ years of water damage clean-up experience. That way, we can provide customers with reliable, comprehensive service when they need it the most.
We utilize powerful pumps and vacuums to eliminate standing water from your property. Swift water removal is essential in minimizing damage and lowering the likelihood of mold growth. Our team is dedicated to ensuring efficient water extraction to prevent any additional complications.
After extracting water from your property, we dry and dehumidify the impacted areas. We use industrial-grade dehumidifiers and air movers to do so to eliminate moisture from walls, floors, and furniture. Proper drying helps prevent warping, swelling, and the growth of mold.
Whenever we deal with water damage, we have to address the potential contaminants and bacteria that can enter your home. We make sure to thoroughly clean and sanitize all affected areas to create a safe living environment. This involves cleaning carpets, upholstery, and personal belongings. Our technicians also use antimicrobial treatments to prevent mold and bacterial growth.
The final step in the process is the restoration of your home to its pre-damage condition. This comprehensive restoration process may encompass a range of tasks, from minor repairs such as replacing drywall and installing new carpeting to major reconstruction efforts. Rest assured that Disaster Response is fully equipped to manage all aspects of water damage restoration, from start to finish.
- Maintenance: Have your business or home's roof, appliances, and plumbing inspected by professionals to spot early signs of wear and tear.
- Water Alarms: If there is a flood or leak in your home, a water alarm can alert you so that you can take action immediately.
- Drainage: Your home needs proper drainage systems in place at all times. To prevent water buildup, be sure to unclog your downspouts and gutters.
- Cracks and Gaps: Be sure to seal up any cracks and gaps in your property's foundation to limit water from getting inside.
The Water Damage Company in Fort Worth, TX, You Can Trust
When you want a great steak, you don't go to a fast-food joint and expect a filet. You go to a Bonnell's Fine Texas Cuisine in Fort Worth. When you need quality disaster response services from licensed professionals, you don't go to a fly-by-night shop. You contact Disaster Response.
As a local water damage clean-up business, we believe that providing clients with effective service that they can rely on in times of stress is of utmost importance. While some of our competitors prioritize profits over people, you can rest easy knowing we care about you - and that's something you can always count on when you choose our water damage company.
Whether a pipe has burst in your commercial space and your showroom is flooding, or your home has standing water from a Fort Worth rainstorm, we're here for you 24/7. Contact our office to learn more about the Disaster Response difference or to schedule an inspection for your property today.
Contact Your Emergency Disaster Response Now!
Latest News in Fort Worth, TX
Pre-order your holiday pie with these 8 local bakeries
Kate Mazadehttps://ftwtoday.6amcity.com/food/pie-bakeries-fort-worth-tx
The holidays are almost here, and it’s time for harvest season treats — particularly a Texas favorite: pecan pie. Who doesn’t love a warm, nutty, caramelly dessert with a buttery crust and a gooey center? We’ve rounded up eight local spots to satisfy everyone’s sweet tooth and holiday menu.Where to get the goods ????...
The holidays are almost here, and it’s time for harvest season treats — particularly a Texas favorite: pecan pie. Who doesn’t love a warm, nutty, caramelly dessert with a buttery crust and a gooey center? We’ve rounded up eight local spots to satisfy everyone’s sweet tooth and holiday menu.
Where to get the goods ????
Blue Bonnet Bakery | Snag a slice of fruit pie or a pumpkin pie for the holidays from this 90-year-old bakery. Try this: Classic pecan, just like Mama makes.
Emporium Pies | There’s a reason it’s called the “Lord of the Pies” — this delectable creation has ten apples, homemade caramel, and crispy cinnamon streusel. Try this: The Drunken Nut pie has a shortbread crust that cradles a bourbon butter filling.
Buttermilk Sky Pie Shop | Try flavors like southern custard, granny’s apple, chocolate, key lime, peanut butter, coconut, and chewy chocolate chip in full size or mini pies.Try this: A pie for each hand — try both the I-40 with pecan, chocolate chip, toasted coconut + a classic Nanny’s Pecan pie.
Leaves Bakery & Books | Pie should be for everyone, including our vegan and gluten-free friends. Order before Wednesday, Nov. 20 to grab a dessert in flavors like apple, cranberry apple, and pumpkin in time for Thanksgiving. Try this: Go gluten-free with the chocolate bourbon pecan pie.
Sweet Lucy’s Pies | Order early to get a slice of classic pumpkin, cranberry cheesecake, or sour cream apple pie. Try this: Indulge in fresh pecans with a TX Whiskey spiked filling.
Swiss Pastry Shop | Don’t skimp out on the meringue, cream, or fruit pies that can be preordered and picked up the week of Thanksgiving.Try this: Pecan is among the bakery’s chess pies.
Honey Bunch Bake Shop | The mini sizes are perfect to sample coconut cream, banana, white chocolate, lemon, chocolate, and pistachio.Try this: No need to feel guilty eating the mini pecan pie all by yourself.
Unrefined Bakery | Give dietary restrictions the boot with baked goods that are corn-, dairy-, egg-, gluten-, and grain-free. Choose from pumpkin, winterberry, dark chocolate silk, and coconut custard pies. Try this: Enjoy pecan pie your way with classic, bourbon and chocolate, and keto options.
Make your own ????️
Rather wow your friends with a homemade dessert? Try out Blackland Distillery’s Texas Pecan Brown Sugar Bourbon Pie recipe.
Ingredients
Instructions
Live Election Results: Tarrant County
FOX 4 News Dallas-Fort Worthhttps://www.fox4news.com/election/election-results-tarrant-county-2024-election
Here are the results of the 2024 Election in Tarrant County.Polls closed at 7 p.m. in Texas, and then results will start to come in.If you are having trouble viewing the results on this page click here.Tarrant County Election Results...
Here are the results of the 2024 Election in Tarrant County.
Polls closed at 7 p.m. in Texas, and then results will start to come in.
If you are having trouble viewing the results on this page click here.
Tarrant County Election Results
More Results
Anderson County | Bosque County | Collin County | Cooke County | Dallas County | Delta County | Denton County | Ellis County | Erath County | Fannin County | Freestone County | Henderson County | Hill County | Hood County | Hopkins County | Hunt County | Jack County | Johnson County | Kaufman County | Lamar County | Navarro County | Palo Pinto County | Parker County | Rains County | Red River County | Rockwall County | Somervell County | Tarrant County | Van Zandt County | Wise County
Mountain Mike’s Pizza Expands Texas Footprint With New Dallas-Fort Worth Restaurant
RestaurantNews.comhttps://www.restaurantnews.com/mountain-mikes-pizza-expands-texas-footprint-with-new-dallas-fort-worth-restaurant-110424/
Leading Family-Style Pizza Chain Opens Latest Lone Star State Location in MansfieldNewport Beach, CA (RestaurantNews.com) Mountain Mike’s Pizza, a leading family-style pizza chain for over 45 years, known for its legendary crispy, curly pepperonis, Mountain-siz...
Leading Family-Style Pizza Chain Opens Latest Lone Star State Location in Mansfield
Newport Beach, CA (RestaurantNews.com) Mountain Mike’s Pizza, a leading family-style pizza chain for over 45 years, known for its legendary crispy, curly pepperonis, Mountain-sized pizzas and dough made fresh daily, has proudly opened in Mansfield, Texas. The restaurant is owned and operated by Dallas-Fort Worth residents and Mountain Mike’s Pizza multi-unit franchisees Ramein Gerami and Min Chang, who will contribute to the brand’s growing Lone Star State presence with at least four additional restaurants. Marking its seventh Texas location, Mountain Mike’s Pizza is the ideal destination for Mansfield locals to enjoy the brand’s signature experience of “Pizza the Way it Oughta Be!®” whether dining in the restaurant, carrying out or having it delivered directly to their door.
“We are thrilled to open Mountain Mike’s Pizza during such an exciting, growth-focused time for the Mansfield community, particularly as the city breaks ground on the new sports stadium and Staybolt Street entertainment district,” said Gerami. “Mountain Mike’s Pizza, with its unmatched selection of game-day bites, big screen televisions and long history of sports activations, is the perfect destination for sports lovers and families to gather over Pizza the Way it Oughta Be.”
The spacious 2,500-square-foot Mountain Mike’s Pizza in Mansfield features the welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere for which the brand is known. Boasting six big-screen televisions, the Mansfield restaurant is bound to be a go-to destination for sports fans, no matter their preferred team. The new location also includes an all-you-can-eat pizza and salad bar, weekday lunch buffet, kids’ arcade area, a selection of craft beer and wine and complimentary Wi-Fi. There is something for everyone at Mountain Mike’s in Mansfield, making it an ideal spot for guests of all ages, team parties, family get-togethers, office gatherings and group fundraising events alike.
One bite into a cheesy slice of pizza from Mountain Mike’s takes you back to your childhood, when pizzas were handmade with the freshest and finest ingredients. From its legendary crispy, curly pepperoni, 100% whole milk mozzarella cheese and a variety of fan-favorite specialty pizzas, Mountain Mike’s has something to satisfy every taste. Whether it’s dine-in, carryout or its own in-house delivery, guests can always count on Mountain Mike’s to ensure quality, freshness, flavor and value. Orders may be placed online, through the Mountain Rewards® App or through any of the brand’s third-party delivery partners.
The new Mansfield Mountain Mike’s is located at 1670 E Broad St. Suite 105 and can be reached by telephone at (817) 214-2660. The restaurant is open Sunday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. For additional information about Mountain Mike’s Pizza, visit MountainMikesPizza.com. For additional information about the new Mansfield location, visit Mountain Mike’s Pizza Mansfield/E. Broad St. or find the restaurant on Google and Yelp.
Since 1978, Mountain Mike’s Pizza, a leading family-style pizza chain known for its legendary crispy, curly pepperonis, Mountain-sized pizzas, and dough made fresh daily has been a popular choice for families, serving “Pizza the Way it Oughta Be!®” In addition to offering carryout, its own in-house delivery, and four third-party delivery options, Mountain Mike’s provides a family-friendly dine-in environment making it easy for guests to enjoy the brand’s signature experience wherever they are. Most of its nearly 300 locations feature a kids’ activity area with arcade games, dedicated party rooms and big screen TVs throughout, making Mountain Mike’s an ideal place for sports teams, family gatherings, group fundraising events and private parties alike. With a menu of signature pizzas, chicken wings, garlic knots, fresh salads, sharable desserts, and a selection of beer and wine, there’s something for everyone at Mountain Mike’s. Guests may also take advantage of streamlined ordering via the Mountain Rewards® app to earn exclusive offers and personalized rewards towards free food. This year, Mountain Mike’s was named one of America’s Favorite Restaurant Chains by Newsweek, as well as one of the Top Beloved Brands by Nation’s Restaurant News. The brand also received FRANdata’s prestigious 2024 TopScore FUND Award. For a complete list of locations and the full menu, visit MountainMikesPizza.com or follow Mountain Mike’s on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Mountain Mike’s Media Contact:Novia BaulischPowerhouse+Co.novia@powerhouseandco.com
Pea-sized hail anticipated with thunderstorms to hit North Texas Sunday
STAR-TELEGRAM WEATHER BOThttps://www.star-telegram.com/news/weather-news/article294972214.html
The creation of this content included the use of AI based on templates created, reviewed and edited by journalists in the newsroom. Read more on our AI policy here.A weather alert issued by the NWS Fort Worth TX on Sunday at 2:26 p.m. is warning residents of strong thunderstorms until 3 p.m. The alert is for Montague, Jack and Wise counties.The storms may bring pea-sized hail (0.25 inches) and wind...
The creation of this content included the use of AI based on templates created, reviewed and edited by journalists in the newsroom. Read more on our AI policy here.
A weather alert issued by the NWS Fort Worth TX on Sunday at 2:26 p.m. is warning residents of strong thunderstorms until 3 p.m. The alert is for Montague, Jack and Wise counties.
The storms may bring pea-sized hail (0.25 inches) and wind gusts of up to 40 mph.
"At 2:25 p.m., Doppler radar tracked a strong thunderstorm 10 miles north of Jacksboro, moving northeast at 60 mph," says the NWS. "Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around unsecured objects. Minor damage to outdoor objects is possible."
Expect strong thunderstorms in the following locations:
Other locations impacted by this storm include Jermyn, Lost Creek Reservoir, Cundiff, Fruitland, Park Springs, Lake Bridgeport, Crafton, Bartons Chapel, Wizard Wells, and Vineyard.
The NWS states, "If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building. A Severe Thunderstorm Watch remains in effect until 5 p.m. for north central Texas."
This alert is in effect until 3 p.m.
Lightning strikes the United States about 25 million times a year. Most of the strikes occur in the summer, killing 20 people each year, according to the NWS. Chance of lightning increases as a thunderstorm approaches and peaks when the storm is overhead. It diminishes as the storm moves away.
Here are tips on how to stay safe during a thunderstorm:
If finding indoor shelter is not an option:
What is hydroplaning?
Hydroplaning is when a vehicle starts uncontrollably sliding on wet roads.
This happens when water in front of the tire builds up faster than the vehicle's weight can push water out of the way. The water pressure then causes the vehicle to rise and slide on a thin layer of water between the tires and the road, making the driver lose control. Hydroplaning is most commonly attributed to three factors:
In the event of your vehicle hydroplaning, here's what to know:
Source: The National Weather Service
This article was generated by the Star-Telegram Bot, software that analyzes structured information, such as data, and applies it to articles based on templates created by journalists in the newsroom. No human journalist was harmed in this experiment. You can report errors or bugs to mcclatchybot@mcclatchy.com.
This story was originally published November 3, 2024, 2:29 PM.
Can Texas churches endorse candidates or post political signs? What the law says
Tiffani Jacksonhttps://www.star-telegram.com/news/state/texas/article294736539.html
Churches, temples, mosques and other houses of worship are important spaces for many Texans. This election season, many of those organizations across Texas will be used as polling locations in the Nov. 5 general election.It might make you wonder: Can churches legally endorse candidates or encourage congregations to support a certain political party?Here’s what churches can and can...
Churches, temples, mosques and other houses of worship are important spaces for many Texans. This election season, many of those organizations across Texas will be used as polling locations in the Nov. 5 general election.
It might make you wonder: Can churches legally endorse candidates or encourage congregations to support a certain political party?
Here’s what churches can and can’t do around campaigns, according to Texas and federal law.
For almost 70 years, federal law has prohibited churches (non-profit organizations) from directly participating in political campaigns, or else the churches risk losing their tax-exempt status.
The 1954 law specifically says organizations “may not participate in, or intervene in (including the publishing or distributing of statements), any political campaign on behalf of any candidate for public office.”
However, lobbying for certain causes or laws is not entirely prohibited by this restriction — it just has limits.
Churches can weigh in on issues like gun rights and legislative activities as long as time spent on the issue doesn’t make up a “substantial part” of their role as an organization, according to the IRS.
Though churches have the right to express their opinions on political matters, the IRS says they must exercise caution to ensure they aren’t endorsing or opposing candidates whose campaigns are centered around such topics.
In 1987, Congress changed the law’s wording to make it clear that remarks about opposing candidates are also prohibited.
So if a candidate visits a church and is running on a gun rights platform, leaders can’t tell the congregation to vote for them or their platform.
“501(c)(3) organizations must avoid any issue advocacy that functions as political campaign intervention,” the IRS writes.
Religious leaders are permitted under federal law to express their opinions on political matters and candidates in their capacity as private citizens, but not on behalf of their churches or at events hosted by the churches.
Churches and other nonprofit organizations are permitted to conduct candidate forums, debates or presentations as long as they provide equal opportunity for all candidates to speak to their members.
But while these guidelines exist, they can be challenging to implement. Some religious leaders oppose those guidelines, claiming they limit their First Amendment rights.
According to a Texas Tribune and ProPublica investigation from 2022, the IRS rarely takes action against churches that openly support political candidates.
Out of the 51 early voting locations in Tarrant County for the Nov. 5 election, only three are located at or near a church. But on Election Day, many voting locations are at houses of worship.
Churches used as polling places are subject to the same regulations as other polling locations: Political statements cannot be displayed within the building or within 100 feet of the entrance.
Texas law says doing so would be seen as electioneering, which includes the posting, use or distribution of political signs or literature at a polling place during a voting period.
Electioneering offenses are punished with a Class C misdemeanor.
Fort Worth Star-Telegram
Tiffani is a service journalism reporter for the Fort Worth Star-Telegram. She is part of a team of local journalists who answer reader questions about life in North Texas.