WACO, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)--July 9, 2002--With damages nearing $1 billion in Texas after more than 30 inches of rain have flooded the area, Rainbow International Carpet Care and Restoration Specialist franchises are gearing up for the massive cleanup calls.

The American Red Cross estimates that 48,000 houses have already been affected in the Abilene and San Antonio areas alone.

"We are tackling the clean up effort in every area that we can reach," said David Bethea, president of Rainbow International. "In other areas, the problem is waiting for flood waters to recede so we can get in and assess the damage."

Todd Simms, a Rainbow franchise owner in Abilene, has been so busy that he called Rainbow franchise owners in Lubbock and Graham, Texas, to help service his calls. Rainbow locations in Waco and Wichita Falls have also been asked to be available for back up service if needed.

Thirteen counties in Texas have been designated federal disaster areas, and Governor Rick Perry has asked that 17 more counties be added to the list. "When FEMA designates a federal disaster area, we can help a lot more people who don't have flood insurance," Bethea said.

Rainbow International's clean up effort is centered on making sure that structures are thoroughly dry, eliminating the risk of future problems such as mold. Rainbow International provides training for its franchisees and their technicians through the Institute of Inspection & Restoration Certification (IICRC). The IICRC training is respected nationwide as some of the best restoration training in the industry, Bethea said.

When searching for a water damage restoration company, Rainbow International advises consumers to look for the following:

Companies that are certified in IICRC water damage restoration.

Technicians who are familiar with IICRC S500, the industry standards for drying out structures.

Companies that are properly equipped with airmovers, dehumidifiers and moisture detecting equipment.

Companies that understand the differences in types of water damage, especially in the case of flood waters, which usually require removal and replacement of materials due to unknown contents of the water.