Preparing your Sturbridge, MA home for the fall!

8/31/2020 (Permalink)

It's better to be prepared before the colder months hit!

Although we still technically are in the summer season, it's been feeling a lot like fall! And why not be prepared ahead of time rather than scrambling around to prepare your home? The first official day of fall is September 22nd, so not too far away! 

Interior checklist 

Get your furnace ready for winter (Preparing for the fall also means preparing for the winter so again, you're not scrambling last minute) Having your furnace professionally serviced is very important to a well running furnace! 

Clean your fireplace and chimney. Inspect the flue and make sure the doors are in good condition. Have your chimney professionally inspected and swept if necessary. (Stock up on firewood throughout the fall, too!)

Check for leaks and drafts. Take a look at your windows and doors for any leaks or holes, and if any weatherstripping needs to be replaced you should replace it right away. This will ensure that no cold air will sneak it's way into your home this winter. 

Do a home safety check. Replace smoke alarm and carbon monoxide detector batteries, check your emergency supply kit, and review your fire/emergency escape plan with your family. 

Exterior Checklist 

Take advantage of the last few weeks of summer weather and get your outdoor project all set before it get's a little too cold and windy for ya! 

Fix any cracks in your driveway/walkway. 

Clean the gutters! A clogged downspout or gutters can cause major damage to your home. 

Turn off your sprinkler system. This can wait until the last week or so of summer, or a little bit into fall. Drain hoses and sprinkler systems before the winter months to avoid freezing, and water damage inside your home. 

Clean your outdoor furniture. Cleaning your furniture before you need to put them away can save you some time, and probably some aggravation when it's time to put everything away for the season. 

If you experience any water, fire, or storm damage this fall season, give us a call at 508-234-3399, we're here to help!! 

Household Item Spotlight for Auburn

2/20/2020 (Permalink)

Today, we're going to talk about some items you probably already have in your home, and other things they're great for! 

Ketchup

You probably have a bottle of ketchup sitting in the door of your fridge right now. Besides being great to dip your fries in, ketchup is an excellent cleaner for copper and brass. Put a thick layer of ketchup to your copper or brass, allow it to sit for 30 minutes to a few hours (depending on the dirty-ness). Then use a wet cloth or paper towel to remove the ketchup, and it'll be nice and shiny again!

Olive Oil

Dab or spray a little bit of olive oil onto your stainless steel appliances, then wipe! Go over the area again with a dry cloth to buff it out, now you'll be able to see your reflection in the dishwasher!

Rubbing Alcohol

If the kids just happened to get a hold of some pens and it just so happened to draw all over the bed sheets... rubbing alcohol is a great solution to get those stains out. 

Baking Soda

Baking soda is probably the most versatile household item when it comes to cleaning! It can unclog drains, remove grime, wash walls, and even clean fruits and veggies! 

To clean your fruits and veggies, fill the sink with cold water and 4 tablespoons of baking soda, then soak for 5 minutes, then rinse! Now you can enjoy your apples, peppers, berries and all of your other healthy snacks :) 

Vinegar

You can remove that yellow/ orange soap scum from your shower or bathtub with some vinegar. You can even use the same method for your washing machine. 

Now that you have a few hacks to clean your home basically for free, try out some of these methods, let us know how it went! Send us a message on Facebook with your results! 

Check out last weeks Tip of the Week here

Moving to Spencer, MA?

2/11/2020 (Permalink)

Remember to always lift with your knees, not your back!

Packing Hacks 

Once the joy of closing on your new home settles in, so will the dreaded fear of packing everything, and how you'll do it. 

One of the first things you should do is start collecting boxes. 

Some places you can get boxes for free (or almost free)

• Liquor stores
• Grocery stores 
• Banks 
• Dollar store 

First things first.... you'll need a "first day" box

Set aside some laundry baskets or boxes and label them "first day, don't pack". Put some toilet paper, cleaning supplies, your bedding. Other things you'll need on your first night(s)

• Chargers
• Pet food
• Purse / wallet 
• Kids school bags
• Paper plates / plastic utensils 

When you are labeling boxes, label it with what room it goes to, not what is inside the box. This way you'll be unpacking each room rather than searching for things that go here and there.

- Pack any decor and frames first, but unpack last. 

These are your "non essentials" - go around the house and gather them up, place them on the table and pack it up! (Don't forget to label!) Then when you get to your new place, set those boxes aside for you to decide where you want everything to go after unpacking your essentials. 

- Packing clothes 

Use garbage bags for your hanging clothes... place the bag over with the hangers sticking through, it will make them easy to carry and to put right into your new closet! 

- Jewelry 

Use cling wrap to pack your necklaces, bracelets... It will keep them from tangling together

You can also threat your necklaces through a straw to prevent tangling 

- Dressers

No need to unload your dresser drawers, take the drawers out, load up your dresser, then put the drawers back in, and use plastic wrap to keep the drawers shut while moving.

- Electronics

Take a picture of the back of your TV and other electronics before unplugging everything, so when you move you'll know exactly what plug goes in what hole

For more tips and tricks for packing click here

If your new home needs a little bit more than a basic cleaning, call us (508) 234-3399 and visit our website for our residential cleaning services 

Removing Candle Soot - Rochdale, MA

2/4/2020 (Permalink)

Removing Candle Soot from Your Walls & Ceilings 

Have you ever lit that same "warm vanilla" scented candle you've been burning for weeks, then looked up and noticed terrible black streaks on your wall/ ceiling? This is due to the flames dancing around uncontrolled. 

Some people prefer to use a wax melter, but if you're partial to candles, here are some tips for preventing and getting rid of those stains:

*Just a quick note, you shouldn't wet the walls, once the soot gets wet, it can be an awful mess to work with. The situation will be worse and you'd be better off re-painting. 

To prevent those soot marks:

- Trim the wick to about ¼ inch, and don't put the candle anywhere drafty. When the flame flickers, it creates more soot

- Place your candle inside the fireplace, the smoke and soot particles will just go right up the chimney. 

- Purchase candle shades. These prevent soot and excess flickering of the flame. 

Scented candles usually create more soot due to the oils in the wax...but who wants a non-scented candle?? How can you say no to a nice warm vanilla or apple scented candle! (Although, we prefer fresh lemon scent here at SERVPRO of Southern Worcester County ;) 

To remove the soot marks:

Purchase dry cleaning sponges such as these, for example. 

These type of sponges don't require any water or products, just wipe those soot marks from your beautiful cream colored walls. 

If you have more than just candle soot damage, call us at (508) 234-3399, we'll clean your home with care!! 

Be sure to check out last week's Homeowner Tip of the Week here

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Cleaning your Dishwasher Auburn Massachusetts

1/28/2020 (Permalink)

Photo: https://www.homedepot.com/p/Frigidaire-24-in-Built-In-Front-Control-Tall-Tub-Dishwasher-in-Stainless-Steel-60-dBA-FFCD2413US/305855016

Although your dishwasher washes your dishes, it isn’t meant to clean itself. If you want your dishwasher to last, you should clean it at least once a month. Usually they have their own self clean setting like your oven. You’ll just have to dig out the manual.

Grease, soap scum, and food debris will build up in your dishwasher over time. This can create a motherload of germs that you definitely don’t want!

To clean your dishwasher:

• Clear the drain
  • Remove the bottom rack, clear any food or debris that are caught. This will improve the ability of drainage and increase the efficiency.
• Put vinegar in the dishwasher
  • Make sure the dishwasher is empty, then put a cup of white vinegar in a (dishwasher safe) container or bowl on the top rack. Run it through a hot water cycle.
  • Vinegar will wash away grease and debris and remove any odors.
• Rinse with baking soda
  • Sprinkle one cup of baking soda on the bottom of the dishwasher. Run a short hot water cycle. This will leave it smelling fresh and looking good as new!

Last week's Tip of The Week

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Heated Blanket Safety - Spencer, MA

1/21/2020 (Permalink)

Photo: https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/home-products/best-electric-blanket-reviews/a25308726/best-electric-blankets/

Did you know that electricity is one of the most common causes of home fires?

During the winter months, we all just want to be cuddled up in bed or on the couch with a nice warm blanket. Maybe you even have an electric heated blanket.

When using your heated blanket, it is important to know how to handle the blanket safely to prevent injury or fire.

Even though technology has advanced, you should still take precautions when using one of these blankets.

Fire hazards associated with heated blankets:

• Be sure all of the wiring components are intact, without fraying, or crimped cords.
• It is important to make sure your heated blanket is in good condition before you use it.

If you see any signs of damage, do not use it.

Don’t place anything on top of the blanket, it could damage the coils.

Storing your heated blanket: 

Fold the blanket loosely, without and sharp folds.

Store it on a shelf, but without anything on top of it.

Always turn off your heated blanket before going to bed. – a tip from Derek E. Bell: turn it on a half hour before you plan on going to bed, then turn it off before falling asleep. The bed will be warm, and you’ll be safe through the night.

Leaving your heated blanket on for an extended period of time could eventually cause burns to your skin. Nobody wants that to happen! At SERVPRO of Southern Worcester County, we just want you all to be as safe as possible this winter! 

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Give us a call if you need us for any water, fire, or storm related damage to your Spencer, MA home or business! (508) 234-3399 we're here 24/7! 

DIY Faux Wood Beams Webster

1/15/2020 (Permalink)

Photo: https://www.decorpad.com/photo.htm?photoId=102721

If your house needs just a little makeover, and you like the look of exposed wood beams, look no further!! This will give your bedroom, living room, or any room that primitive farmhouse look ??

What you will need to make your DIY faux wood beams:

• 1x6 inch wood whiteboard planks (cut to length you will need)
• 2x4 pieces of wood for blocking
• Brad nailer
• Nails
• Table saw
• Milter saw
• Air compressor
• Cordless drill
• Drill bits
• 2in long screws
• 3 – 3 inch lag bolts for each side of the beam
• Level
• Measuring tape
• Ladder
• Stud finder

Measure the room and decide how many beams you want to install.

Each beam needs 3 pieces of wood to complete one beam.

To prepare the wood, miter 1 piece from each beam of 1x6 on both sides at a 45 degree angle. 1 piece needs to be mitered on the left side at a 45 degree angle, and the other piece on the right. By doing this, it will give the illusion of no seams. Making the beams look real.

Before assembling your beams, stain or paint them first, so you don’t have to while they are already on the ceiling.

While the stain or paint is drying, install the blocking on the walls, where the beams will be secured. Locate the roof trusses or studs. If you can’t you will have to find a different way to secure the beams.

Once you are satisfied with where you want the beams, raise the block one inch to compensate for the thickness of the beam.

To assemble your beams:

Place glue on the right or left mitered piece, attach it to the bottom piece and then nail into place.

Repeat with the other right or left mitered piece.

Push the beams up around your blocks, use a hammer to be sure they are secured. To keep it held up while you are attaching the other side, use a few brad nails. Once you have the other side on, use screws to secure.

To make them look even more authentic, caulk around where the beams meet the walls.

For step by step photos click here

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Cleaning your Front Load Washer Hopedale

1/7/2020 (Permalink)

You should clean your washing machine at least once a month to keep it smelling fresh! Photo: https://www.google.com/search?q=front+load+washer&rlz=1C

To keep your washer running and cleaning well, you should clean it at least once a month. Ensuring it smells fresh and preventing any mold. 

- Remove the detergent drawer, clean any attachments.

- Clean the rubber gasket around the drum, as well as the glass on the inside.

- Wipe them with a solution of 3/4 cups bleach and 1 gallon of water

If the washer has a "cleaning" cycle, you can run that. Some machines require specific cleaning products, others suggest using bleach or vinegar. See your machine manufacturers instructions for details. 

If your machine doesn't have a cleaning cycle, you can use vinegar and baking soda. 

Be sure the drum is empty, and sprinkle 1/2 cup baking soda inside the drum. Pour 1 cup of distilled white vinegar into the detergent dispenser. Run the washer on the hot water setting. 

To keep your machine clean between monthly cleanings: 

- Take clothes out as soon as they are done washing 

- Wipe moisture from the drum or gasket 

- Leave the door open between loads 

- Be sure you are using HE detergent if you have an HE machine

SERVPRO of Southern Worcester County will be posting weekly cleaning, DIY, cooking and more homeowner tips every Tuesday. If you have any tips you'd like to read or have any suggestions, let us know on Facebook, Twitter, or shoot us an email! 

• Chubb
• Preferred Mutual
• USAA
• Catholic Mutual  
• AMICA
• Safety Insurance
• Arbella Insurance
• Bunker Hill Insurance Company
• Peerless Insurance Company
• Foremost Insurance Company
• Safeco
• New London Insurance
• Liberty Mutual
• Philadelphia Insurance
• Modern Home
• EMC Insurance Companies
• Narragansett Bay Insurance Company
• The Hartford

SERVPRO of Southern Worcester County is here 24/7 365, call us (508) 234-3399 if your Charlton, MA home or business has suffered from a water, fire, or storm related disaster. 

Don't Touch Equipment - Water Damage - Jefferson, MA

12/16/2019 (Permalink)

When you call us at SERVPRO of Southern Worcester County to restore your home or business after a water damage, our technicians will use the appropriate equipment to dry and dehumidify the area. It is important to always follow our technicians instructions and to keep the equipment running at all times. We do understand that the equipment can be noisy, but turning off the dehumidifiers or air movers can delay the drying time and possibly cause further damage. The project manager will monitor the moisture levels daily to determine how much longer the equipment will need to stay. If you have any questions or concerns about the equipment be sure to talk to one of our crew members or project manager. You can also give us a call at (508) 234-3399, we’re always here to help!

Safety tips for Webster to guide you through the winter

12/4/2019 (Permalink)

If you are using a space heater(s)

• Only use heaters with an Underwriters Laboratory approval or another national testing lab.
• Keep the heater at least 3 feet from anything that is flammable.
• ALWAYS turn off space heaters when you leave the room, and before going to bed.
• NEVER use your oven to heat your home!

Using a fireplace

• Make sure your chimney has recently been inspected and cleaned by a professional before using it this season.
• Be sure you are burning clean, dry wood.
• Be sure there is a screen in front of the fireplace to prevent any sparks from flying into the room.
• Do NOT use gasoline or lighter fluid to start a fire
• Don’t use plastic or paper materials to remove ashes
  • Instead, use a metal covered container
• Never vacuum hot embers.

General fire safety tips

• Be sure everyone knows how to dial 9-1-1
• Make sure the fire alarms are working by testing them, and be sure the batteries are fresh.
  • They should be tested monthly
  • Batteries should be replaced once a year or when the low battery alarm chirps.

*Information gathered from Smithfield Fire Department 

Call us at (508) 234-3399 if you need fire or smoke damage restoration. We're here to help 24/7. It'll be "Like it never even happened."

Signs of Heat Exhaustion - Dudley

8/20/2019 (Permalink)

Heat Safety

Heat waves are characterized by three or more consecutive days above 90 degrees. Massachusetts and New England states are experiencing high temperatures (with high humidity), so use caution.  There are many types of heat-related symptoms and illnesses that can be fatal. The next time it's hot out, look for these symptoms of excessive heat.

Heat Cramps - These are muscular spasms in the abdomen or legs (most common) due to sweating excessively from the heat. Resting in a cool place and drinking plenty of water and electrolytes will stop symptoms.

Heat Exhaustion - This happens often when people are doing strenuous outdoor activities in the heat - this is a major "no-no". When it's hot, its best to avoid over-exerting your body. A person experiencing heat exhaustion can exhibit pale or red skin,  headache, and dizziness. 

Heat Stroke - This is very scary and life-threatening if nothing is done about it. This happens when the body's vital organs shut down. This is characterized by very high body temperature, vomiting, confusion, seizures, and rapid/weak pulse.

Signs of Drowning - Webster, MA

7/12/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Southern Worcester County Wishes Everyone a Safe and Happy Summer!

Being a coastal state, Massachusetts summers are full of beaches, pools, hot weather, and sun. SERVPRO of Southern Worcester County always tries to inform the community of safety hazards. A cause of death especially during the summer months is drowning. Next time you're at Memorial Beach in Webster, remember these signs so you can save a life. After all, it might be your loved one who's in danger. Note that if you bring your children to the beach, watch them carefully - it is not easy to spot somebody drowning.

Warning Signs

• persons mouth and head are below water
• person is vertical
• head and mouth are under water
• do not just expect someone drowning to yell and wave their hands back and forth - that's just for the movies. Drowning is usually silent.
• person drowning might have their arms forward or on their side in an effort to paddle up to the surface.

Tip: Especially if you are a parent or guardian, it is imperative to know CPR to save a child's life.

Note - It can take a child only 20 seconds to drown, and 60 seconds for adolescents. (source - https://www.popsci.com/identify-prevent-drowning/)

Try to spot the child drowning in this educational video: https://www.popsci.com/identify-prevent-drowning/

Source: https://slate.com/technology/2013/06/rescuing-drowning-children-how-to-know-when-someone-is-in-trouble-in-the-water.html

As always, if you are experiencing water or dire damage and need mitigation services (residential or commercial), please call us 508-234-3399! Visit our website: https://www.SERVPROsouthernworcestercounty.com/commercial-restoration-cleaning 

50th Anniversary of Walking on the Moon

7/5/2019 (Permalink)

The 50th Anniversary of astronaut Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin will be July 20th, this month. 50 years ago, the Apollo mission became a critical success story and triumph for the United States and the world. People were glued to their television screens as astronauts were risking their lives to go on unknown territory. Before he died, President John F. Kennedy.The Moon landing was orchestrated by NASA's Apollo Space Program. The landed on the moon in 1968, but 6 months later they made their first steps. "One small step for man. One giant leap for mankind." 

At SERVPRO of Southern Worcester County, we strive to reach new heights and set new goals. We didn't walk on the moon but we admire the determination and courage it took to do so. 

Read more about the Moon Landings

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Time to Clown Around

5/15/2017 (Permalink)

Interested in donating to a great cause? Check out https://rednoseday.org/. For over thirty-years, the charity referred to as "Comic Relief" has focused on the promotion of comedy to help raise funds to one day end childhood poverty. No child should ever go unaccounted for, and we at SERVPRO of Southern Worcester County fervently support this cause and hope that you are able to do the same!

Early Membership at TPC Boston

4/7/2017 (Permalink)

Then course is now open! As a reminder, TPC Boston is welcoming spring with an early-season membership offer now through April 15th. With a membership at TPC Boston, you can entertain clients, improve your game, spend quality time with your family and friends, or even host business meetings.

Membership Includes:

• Entertaining at the Highest Level
• Family Privileges
• TPC Network Access
• Full Member Event Schedule

There's a lot to look forward to in 2017 at TPC Boston. The TPC Network is growing in size, with over 100 clubs available to TPC Boston Members. TPC will be unveiling two completely redesigned holes by Golf Course Architect, Gil Hanse and welcoming Dell Technologies as the new Title Sponsor of their PGA Tour playoff event. Their highly-rated Clubhouse is continually adding amenities, all without any assessments to members. Make TPC Boston your home away from home in 2017.

If you have any questions about TPC Boston or the benefits of a membership, please contact darrengarrity@pgatourtpc.com.

Source: https://tpc.com/boston/.

Faster to any Size Disaster

1/25/2017 (Permalink)

Fire and Water Damage are Never Scheduled... Are you Prepared? 

From a burst pipe in an office building to faculty wiring in an apartment complex, fire and water losses are never planned, but they do occur. SERVPRO of Southern Worcester County knows there's no such thing as a small emergency when it threatens the welfare of the tenants and the revenue of the property owner. Have you developed a thorough Contingency Plan? Is the emphasis on the first 24-48 hours to help you get back in your building as quickly as possible? 

Emergency Ready Profile 

SERVPRO of Southern Worcester County can provide you assistance in developing and Emergency Ready Profile. As part of a well thought-out Contingency Plan, your Emergency Ready Profile will contain information you need in the event an emergency situation occurs. 

Ask us about an Emergency Ready Profile today! (508) 234-3399. 

Protecting Yourself From the Swine Flu and Norovirus Viruses

12/14/2016 (Permalink)

Our three franchises have the protocol and product to clean!

SERVPRO of Southern Worcester County recommends the following job process for cleaning:

• Wear PPE consisting of full Tyvek, full face respirator, gloves and foot protection.
• Mist the immediate area with the EPA registered disinfectant using the #716 MacroMist II ULV Fogger at a rate of ~8 oz per 2,000 sq. ft or 20,000 cu. ft.
• Allow a 30 minute dwell time.
• Ventilate and wipe down with a clean towel.

Swine Flu is an airborne virus. Airborne viruses are only viable outside of a human body for a limited period of time. This type of disease is transmitted by sneezing and coughing. Airborne viruses are generally not transmitted by secondary contact as is the case with many bacterial infections. Please advise customers this treatment is not meant to be a 100% defense against the Swine Flu, and you are not assuming any liability for future outbreaks in treated structures. A carrier of the Swine Flu could easily enter the structure post cleaning and cough or sneeze on others and transmit the disease. The current Swine Flu is a new strain. The information presented is based on the current information being offered by the CDC.

Commercial Buildings-Schools- Nursing Homes

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2016 PGA Championship

7/27/2016 (Permalink)

Starting tomorrow, July 28^th, the 98^th annual PGA Championship will take place. This year, the championship takes place at Baltusrol Golf Club’s Lower Course in Springfield, New Jersey.  With 156 players in the field, all eyes will be on defending champion, Jason Day. Last year, Day finished the major with a total score of 268 (-20), the joint lowest score in relation to par ever recorded in a major championship. The only other person to reach this feat, Henrik Stenson at the 2016 Open Championship just a few weeks ago.

We’d like to wish each of the competitor’s luck, and we look forward to following the action!

SERVPRO is an official marketing partner of the PGA Tour and Champion Tour.

If you suffer a disaster and need disaster cleanup and restoration, please call SERVPRO of Southern Worcester County at 508-234-3399.

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SERVPRO® of Southern Worcester County Goes “All In” at SERVPRO Convention

7/5/2016 (Permalink)

47^th annual event sets another record for attendance

(Grassroots Newswire) - SERVPRO®, an industry leader in disaster cleanup, restoration and remediation services, welcomed a record-breaking group of more than 2800 franchise owners, key staff and corporate representatives, including SERVPRO of Southern Worcester County , to their 47^th Annual SERVPRO® Convention, held at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas from June 26 to 30.

The week of workshops, networking and keynote presentations was based on the theme “All In” and was designed to unite franchise owners, team members, distributors and associates.

“For a small business owner, time is money. But the time spent at this annual event is time well spent,” said Don McKendall, owner of SERVPRO of Southern Worcester County. “The combination of workshops, speakers and networking provides attendees with actionable business insights, an industry overview and practical tips and tricks from others in the same field. In my view, SERVPRO’s convention benefits not only their franchisees but also the communities that their franchisees serve.”

This year’s “All In” convention program featured a keynote address by motivational speaker Connie Podesta (http://conniepodesta.com/), who takes a humorous and dynamic approach to promoting communications, and increasing sales and 28 workshop sessions focused on leadership training and providing resources designed to help each Franchise grow and better serve their community.

“SERVPRO understands running a small business is a challenge,” said Sue Steen, Chief Executive Officer of SERVPRO Industries, Inc. “Our annual convention gives us the opportunity to recognize individual franchisees that have excelled at building their businesses and enhancing SERVPRO’s reputation as an industry leader in disaster cleanup, restoration and remediation services. We offer our sincere congratulations to this year’s award winners and to all of the dedicated professionals who work hard every day to provide world-class service to their customers.”

For more information about SERVPRO of Southern Worcester County, please contact Don McKendall at 508-234-3399 or Don@SERVPROMcKendall.com or visit http://www.SERVPROsouthernworcestercounty.com/.  

About SERVPRO®

Founded in 1967, the SERVPRO® Franchise System is a leader and provider of fire and water cleanup and restoration services and mold mitigation and remediation. SERVPRO’s professional services network of more than 1,700 individually owned and operated Franchises responds to property damage emergencies ranging from small individual disasters to multi-million dollar large-loss events. Providing coverage in the United States and Canada, the SERVPRO® System has established relationships with major insurance companies and commercial clients, as well as individual homeowners.

Telling the SERVPRO Storm Story – Ben Williams

6/29/2016 (Permalink)

(Taken from NEWSLINE)

The roots of the SERVPRO Storm Response program date back to 1993 and make up a significant part of the SERVPRO Story.

In 1992, SERVPRO made a decision to begin taking the steps necessary to compete in the commercial market and catastrophic response (CAT). That same year, there was a large fire loss in Nashville. Several Owners agreed with corporate leadership and responded to clean the building; this was the first step on the road to commercial and CAT response. The following year, in 1993, there was a significant flooding event in the Mid-West. Corporate responded by sending several willing Franchise Owners to complete work in Des Moines, Kansas City, and ultimately ending in St. Louis. The nearly 40 Franchise Owners involved completed multiple projects, including the spirit of the St. Louis Airport.

The next two years saw several significant storm events. Tropical Storm Alberto Dropped 24”of rain north of Albany, George, causing the Flint River to flood; Storm Teams signed the Dougherty County School System billing out $1.3 million, among many other jobs. Hurricanes Opal and Erin struck and SERVPRO Storm crews responded throughout the Gulf Coast region. This was the beginning of SERVPRO Storm Response on a larger scale using centrally administered Franchises and crews. Many of the precedents set during these events are still part of the Storm Response Program today.

Storms remained an initiative led by the Storm Teams who are all Franchise Owners, using the processes learned on these early events. From 2002-2008, SERVPRO Storm Teams responded to Iowa flooding and eight tropical storms and hurricanes, including Hurricane Katrina. A lot of mistakes were made; however, a lot were learned. Beginning in 2008, under the leadership of the Storm Teams, Commercial Large Loss Division (CLLD), and Executives, Storm Response was formalized into a cooperative program between the Storm Teams and the corporate office.

From 2009-2011, the Storm Teams responded to 15 managed events. This experience continued to foster program improvements as Storm Leaders learned from successes and mistakes. At the end of 2011, SERVPRO experienced the first of two “All-Call” events under the current Storm Response Program. The first was Hurricane Irene/Tropical Storm Lee, followed by SuperStorm Sandy in 2012. These two events significantly affected how Storm Response is managed, providing more valuable lessons. During this time, SERVPRO also developed Storm manager to automate the process for dispatching and tracking leads. Since 2012, the introduction and integration of updated software tools for Storm and the introduction of DryBook for production have significantly improved the ability for SERVPRO Storm Response to manage any event – whether it is a micro event or the next major hurricane.

Stormy Response is an integral part of the SERVPRO Story and differentiates our ability to execute from all other competitors in the industry. We will continue to make incremental improvements to support the SERVPRO Brand.

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IICRC Carpet Cleaning

6/16/2016 (Permalink)

By having our professionals complete vigorous training in accordance with the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), we understand the many principles surrounding basic carpet cleaning guidelines.

Dry Soil Removal – Through vacuuming using an upright vacuum with brush agitation to remove up to 99 percent of particles.

Soil Suspension – This involves the application of properly specified, formulated and mixed preconditioning agents designed to separate soil from fibers. There are four fundamentals involved in soil suspension: application of preconditioning chemicals; using heat or temperature to speed chemical reactions; agitation for proper chemical distribution and providing dwell time so that chemical reactions can be completed before soil extraction is attempted.

Soil Extraction – Any method of cleaning must physically remove soils if it is to be successful. Soil removal takes place with absorption, wet vacuuming, rinsing and even dry vacuuming. The most common method for soil removal among professionals is hot water extraction.

Grooming, as necessary – Grooming has little to do with physical soil removal; however, it is needed to eliminate pile distortion and matting, to properly distribute additives, such as carpet protectors, and to create an even appearance for your inspection.

Drying- Damp carpet re-soils rapidly, creates potential for slip-fall problems and ultimately, can grow bacteria with an associated odor.

Source: http://www.iicrc.org/consumers/care/carpet-cleaning/

If you have any questions or would like to find out more information, please give us a call @ 508-234-3399.

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Why SERVPRO?

6/8/2016 (Permalink)

Since 1967, SERVPRO professionals have been rewriting the rules regarding mitigation and restoration. For close to 50 years, SERVPRO has offered services that truly do help those that have been through a disaster. From water and fire damage to our very extensive cleaning services, the company has developed into an industry leader.

What is it about our company that makes us so reputable?

In 1992, SERVPRO developed the National Training Center to teach restoration and mitigation skills to Franchise Owners and insurance industry employees. Since then, the Center has evolved into an all-encompassing source that offers each franchise owner and crew members the skills necessary to be successful.

Employee Certification Training

A self-paced program designed for the franchise employee. Certification is awarded after successful completion of course materials and an examination. Modules include:

New Franchise Training

A 15 day in-house, hands-on training program at our corporate training facility. Designed primarily for new franchise owners but also a valuable course for franchise employees. The program covers all aspects of:

• Fire Restoration
• Water Restoration
• Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning
• Mold Mitigation

e-Learning

A web-based program designed to be an ongoing self-paced training program. Video presentations and support materials are followed by a knowledge test at the end of each module.

IICRC Training Program

SERVPRO is an approved IICRC Training School that offers year-round classes in the following categories:

• Fire Restoration
• Water Restoration
• Carpet Cleaning
• Upholstery Cleaning
• Applied Structural Drying (in our purpose-built ASD facility)

Continuing Education

SERVPRO offers both credit and noncredit courses for insurance agents, insurance adjusters, real estate professionals and franchise staff. These programs are designed to improve knowledge of emergency mitigation. Courses include:

• Water Damage Restoration
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Understanding Mold in the Restoration Industry
• Restorative Drying for Loss Control
• Mitigation Awareness Response Seminar (non-credit course)

With our top-of-line training, our crews are ready to handle any sized disaster. Don’t hesitate! Give us a call @ (508)-234-3399 or visit our website for more information.

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90% Red Cross Workforce are Volunteers

3/28/2016 (Permalink)

Did you know that 90% of the Red Cross workforce is volunteers? #‎BeAHero #‎RedCrossMonth

Red Cross - We are disaster specialists. We are champions of the military, veterans and their families. We are lifesavers. We are educators. We are global citizens. We are humanitarians. We are the American Red Cross. Join us. http://rdcrss.org/Volunteer #‎BeAHero

SERVPRO is a Proud Sponsor of the Red Cross Disaster Responder Program. If you need Fire & Water - Disaster Cleanup and Restoration, Call SERVPRO of Southern Worcester County @ 508-234-3399!

https://www.facebook.com/SERVPROswc/

Amercian Red Cross Sponsorship

3/6/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is a national sponsor for the American Red Cross “Ready Rating” Program. This free, web-based program designed to help businesses, organizations and schools become better prepared for emergencies. The Red Cross Ready Rating Program allows individuals to assess their readiness for a disaster, so they can take all necessary steps before disaster strikes to protect their property from damage and loss.

If you suffer from water, fire, smoke or soot damage and need commercial, or home disaster cleanup, call SERVPRO of Southern Worcester County @ 508-234-3399!