The Importance of Post-Holiday Deep Cleaning for Your Business

11/9/2024 (Permalink)

As businesses prepare for the busy holiday season, it’s easy to overlook the buildup of dirt, grime, and germs that accumulate in the weeks leading up to it. Between foot traffic, decorations, and office parties, your workplace can quickly become a hotspot for messes. That’s why post-holiday deep cleaning is an essential service to ensure your business looks and feels fresh as you welcome customers, employees, and guests during this busy time of year.

Why Post-Holiday Cleaning Matters in November

With November in full swing, businesses are gearing up for the holiday rush. Whether you're running a retail store, office, or restaurant, the added foot traffic and holiday events can lead to dirt and germs accumulating in high-traffic areas. Regular cleaning routines are important, but a deep cleaning is necessary to tackle the buildup of:

• Grime and dirt from muddy shoes and outdoor elements
• Spilled food and drinks from holiday events and gatherings
• Germs and allergens that could affect the health and safety of employees and customers

A post-holiday deep clean ensures that your business space is ready for the increased foot traffic and ensures a healthy environment heading into the new year.

Benefits of Post-Holiday Commercial Cleaning:

1. Healtheir Environment – With cold and flu season in full swing, a deep clean can help reduce the spread of germs and allergens that may have built up during the holiday season. Disinfecting high-touch areas like doorknobs, light switches, and counters can help prevent illness among your employees and customers.

2. Improved Customer Experience – First impressions matter. A clean, well-maintained space can boost customer satisfaction and loyalty, especially during the holidays when shoppers are expecting a clean, comfortable environment to enjoy their experience.

3. Employee Productivity – A clutter-free, tidy office or workspace promotes better morale and productivity. Returning from the holiday break to a clean, organized office can help employees feel refreshed and ready to tackle the tasks ahead.

SERVPRO of College Park, Hyattsville, and District Heights/Landover Can Help

At SERVPRO of College Park, Hyattsville, and SERVPRO of District Heights/Landover, we offer comprehensive commercial cleaning services to help your business stay pristine during and after the holidays. From carpet and upholstery cleaning to disinfection and floor care, we have the tools and expertise to get your business ready for the season.

Our team provides customized cleaning plans that suit your business’s unique needs, ensuring you have a fresh, welcoming space for customers and employees alike.

Call SERVPRO® Today for Your Post-Holiday Deep Cleaning

Make sure your business is looking its best for the holidays and beyond. SERVPRO of College Park, Hyattsville, and SERVPRO of District Heights/Landover is here to help you tackle the mess and get ready for a busy season of success.

Contact us at (301) 381-5505 today to learn more about our post-holiday commercial cleaning services or to schedule your deep cleaning appointment.

Let us help you start the holidays off right with a clean, safe, and inviting environment!

SERVPRO Preventive Cleaning: Schools

8/2/2022 (Permalink)

It’s our goal to restore your school to its preloss condition with as little disruption as possible to students, teachers, and staff.

August is right around the corner, which means we are heading into another school year! At SERVPRO of College Park, Hyattsville we know it is essential to make sure your commercial property reaches a high standard when it comes to a clean and safe environment for your clients, employees, students, and teachers. Our certified professionals help childcare and educational facilities in College Park, Hyattsville, District Heights, Landover, and surrounding areas reach the highest cleaning and sanitation standards.

This upcoming school year, SERVPRO of College Park, Hyattsville can help minimize your facility’s downtime so your staff can return safely. Our certified technicians will work with your school’s administration to assess water or other damage, regardless of the size or cause. 

SERVPRO of College Park, Hyattsville is experienced in handling school water damage, fire, mold remediation, and the cleaning & disinfecting of facilities of all sizes, including:

• Early Childhood - Preschool and Nursery School
• Primary – Elementary and Middle Schools
• Secondary – High School and Academies
• Higher Education – College and University
• Industry Trade Schools
• Athletics – Gymnasium, Sports Complexes, and Stadiums

Call SERVPRO of College Park, Hyattsville certified professionals, when grime, odor, and moisture challenges go beyond the scope of your regular janitorial staff. Whether removing an odor problem or deep cleaning floors or carpets, you can rely on our certified technicians to make your workspace look its best. We serve Prince George’s County. Maryland and beyond to ensure that schools, education & childcare facilities are clean and safe places!

To schedule a consultation for our Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned program, call us at 301-799-3662 or 301-577-1166. We are here to help!

An Emergency READY Profile for Your Business

5/17/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of College Park, Hyattsville, District Heights, and Landover's Disaster Recovery Team Helps Communities in Need

Our SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile (ERP) minimizes business interruption by having an immediate plan of action after a disaster. According to the latest research, 50% of businesses shut down following a disaster. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance as a College Park, Hyattsville, District Heights, and Landover business owner is the key to a timely mitigation process. Read more about the benefits of developing a SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile for your business.

The Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) 

The ERP with SERVPRO provides business owners with a customizable emergency readiness plan, and it is a no-cost assessment for your facility. If your business endures a loss, ERP ensures we will be ready to work as soon as possible. The ERP is designed to serve as a reference for important building and contact information. Because we have access to your commercial business information, our team can get started with the mitigation and restoration process faster. 

Some ERP Advantages

• A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in an emergency
• A guide to help you get into your building following a disaster
• Establishes SERVPRO of College Park/Hyattsville and SERVPRO of District Heights/Landover as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider
• Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin
• Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, and priority contact information

How to Create an ERP for Your Commercial Business?

Creating an Emergency Ready Profile for your commercial business with SERVPRO is easy and time-efficient. Our team can respond immediately to any emergency that your business can endure. Call SERVPRO of College Park/Hyattsville and SERVPRO of District Heights/Landover at 301-779-3662 or 301-577-1166 with any questions regarding the Emergency Ready Plan. You will work with a team member to customize your emergency plan and communicate your specific needs. Our certified technicians provide water mitigation, fire restoration, contents manipulation, and reconstruction services. We also offer general cleaning, biohazard services, and so much more. SERVPRO of College Park/Hyattsville and SERVPRO of District Heights/Landover can complete the job from beginning to end.

Commercial Reconstruction in College Park, Hyattsville, District Heights, & Landover

4/28/2022 (Permalink)

Commercial properties may need assistance with restoration & reconstruction in case of an accident.

Our reconstruction team aims to complete your commercial restoration project on time and within budget with as little downtime to your business. Our full-service process includes inspection and estimating, mitigation, restoration, and reconstruction. Every construction project is unique and customized for you, whether it is a remodel or repairs in connection with your insurance claims. SERVPRO of College Park/Hyattsville and SERVPRO of District Heights/Landover would like you to know that we are here to help you understand your role in your project, as well as the roles for us, your insurance company, adjusters, and your mortgage company.

Construction Services:

• Structural Repairs
• Flooring/Carpet/Tile
• Siding/Drywall
• Carpentry/Framing
• Kitchen/Cabinets
• Windows/Doors
• Roofing/Ceiling
• Exterior Finishing
• Painting/Interior Design
• Electrical

Regardless of the weather season, SERVPRO of College Park/Hyattsville and SERVPRO of District Heights/Landover provide various services to help your home or business back to its pre-existing state. Team Hargrove has the experience and equipment to help with your clean-up, restoration, and construction needs. Our local office provides 24-hour Emergency Service. Call us today at 301-779-3662 or 301-577-1166. Our certified technicians can help make it "Like it never even happened."

Commercial Spring Cleaning

3/28/2022 (Permalink)

We are Here to Help Get Your Business Back to Normal

Springtime is the perfect time to give your College Park, Hyattsville, District Heights, and Landover business a deep clean. SERVPRO of College Park/Hyattsville and SERVPRO of District Heights/Landover can help you with your spring-cleaning checklist. Sometimes you need a deeper cleaning for your commercial property than you do yourself. Our certified technicians can provide commercial specialty cleaning services. 

Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning: Our certified technicians can remove deep-seated dirt and grime that has been trapped in your carpet and upholstery over the winter months. In addition, our cleaning services can extend the lifespan of your carpet and rugs. 

Ceilings, Floors, and Walls: Our team has the tools to do the labor-intensive job of cleaning your ceilings, floors, and walls. Depending on the soil type and the surface, cleaning methods can vary. If your commercial’s ceiling, walls, and floors need emergency cleaning, our team can respond quickly to prevent further damage and reduce costly repairs.

HVAC & Air Duct Cleaning: Your commercial HVAC system and air ducts should be professionally inspected and cleaned before turning on the air conditioner for the summer months. Our certified technicians use a variety of equipment and portable vacuums during the cleaning process. They may also use chemicals to help sanitize, disinfect, and deodorize your air ducts. Cleaning extends the life of your equipment and gives you, your staff, and customers cleaner air to breathe.  

Industrial Kitchen Cleaning: Our certified technicians are here to help 24/7 to mitigate the damage done to food manufacturing facilities and commercial kitchens. So you can get back to serving your customers safely and quickly. Throughout the cleanup and restoration of your industry kitchen, our team takes special care of the regulations, health codes, and potential hazards. 

Need Professional Cleaning?

Our certified technicians are trained in various cleaning techniques for carpets, drapery, blinds, upholstery, and hardwood floors. Our professionals can complete the job from start to finish for residential and commercial properties. At SERVPRO of College Park/Hyattsville and SERVPRO of District Heights/Landover, we have more than 45+ years of experience in the cleaning and restoration industry. Call our certified professionals at 301-799-3662 or 301-577-1166. We are always Here to Help!

Restoring Your Commercial Building After Mold Damage

2/24/2022 (Permalink)

Call our certified SERVPRO professionals to remediate any mold damage.

Mold can quickly become a problem in your commercial property when there is a water intrusion. Our certified technicians at SERVPRO of College Park/Hyattsville and SERVPRO of District Heights/Landover are here to provide you with mold restoration services after the event. Our professionals have the training, protective gear, and specialized equipment necessary to handle your mold problems, large or small. Below are the following steps for the standard mold removal process.

Steps for Mold Removal

Mold Damage Assessment. Our certified technicians will carefully inspect your commercial property for signs of mold using technology designed to detect mold and hidden water sources. Mold can be hidden from plain view, feeding on water and cellulose.

Mold Containment. Our SERVPRO professionals use various containment procedures to prevent the spread of mold. We may also isolate the contaminated area with physical barriers and negative air pressure to keep the mold spores from spreading during the cleanup process. In addition, to stop the spread of mold, fans and heating/cooling systems will be turned off.

Specialized Filtration Equipment. Our certified technicians utilize powerful air scrubbers and HEPA vacuums to prevent the spread of mold spores while the mold remediation is in progress. Our specialized filtration equipment allows our professionals to capture microscopic mold spores out of the air.

Mold & Mold-Infested Materials. The mold remediation process depends on the amount of mold growth and the types of surfaces on which the mold appears. Our antifungal and antimicrobial treatments eliminate mold colonies and prevent new colonies from forming. Our certified technicians may need to remove and dispose of mold-infested porous materials, including drywall and carpeting. 

Contents & Belongings. Our certified technicians clean your furniture, decorative items, curtains, and other restorable items affected by mold. We use a variety of cleaning techniques to clean and sanitize your belongings. Our SERVPRO professionals can deodorize and remove odors using fogging equipment.

Restoration. Depending on the extent of the mold damage, drywall, subfloors, and other building materials may have to be removed. The restoration process may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet. If the repairs are major, the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in your business.

SERVPRO of College Park/Hyattsville and SERVPRO of District Heights/Landover understand mold & mold growth and have the training and equipment to remediate mold in your business. Our certified technicians have the experience of helping our customers through each step of the restoration process. Call us today at 301-779-3662 or 301-577-1166 for more information regarding our mold remediation process.

SERVPRO of College Park/Hyattsville and SERVPRO of District Heights/Landover is an IICRC Firm

12/2/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of College Park/Hyattsville and SERVPRO of District Heights/Landover is an IICRC firm. What does it mean to be an IICRC firm? The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification develops industry standards and offers restoration companies training and certification. We strive for excellence at every job that we complete. Therefore, our employees receive ongoing training and certifications.

Under the IICRC certification firms, must satisfy the following criteria:

Firms must provide consumers with the correct information and conduct business with fairness and integrity.

On all jobs, a technician professionally trained is required.

Technicians must participate in an ongoing education program to stay up with the latest industry standards.

A firm needs to maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.

Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or equivalent arbitration to settle disputes, as well as endorse the arbitration’s findings and recommendations.

The IICRC Develops Standards for The Restoration Industry

The IICRC offers certifications in several categories of Cleaning, Inspection, and Restoration. Journeyman certifications are available to those with advanced levels of recognition. Determined by having several certifications in select categories and a minimum of three to five years of experience in the cleaning/restoration industry.

Your local SERVPRO of College Park/Hyattsville and SERVPRO of District Heights technicians are IICRC-certified and continue their education and certification throughout their employment. Our company ensures that our technicians are certified in the latest techniques and services. Our customers can rest assured knowing that only the most qualified technicians are sent into your business or home to restore and repair damage when you use our services.

We are here 24/7 to help tackle fire, smoke, and water damage. Call us at 301-779-3662 or 301-577-1166.

Commercial Fire Restoration in College Park/Hyattsville and District Heights/Landover

8/28/2021 (Permalink)

Our team will work around the clock to keep your business running and make it “Like it never even happened.”

Commercial fires in the College Park/Hyattsville and District Heights/Landover area can be critical. A fire can quickly spread and impact your equipment, property, hours of operation and can even put your team at risk. Additional damage from water and mold can occur after a fire. Good planning can help ensure that a fire does not happen. Read on to learn more about the top causes of commercial fires and how to prevent such fires.

Cooking incidents

Cooking incidents are the top cause of cooking fires. Flammable materials and high cooking temperatures together can be dangerous if not used properly. All businesses can suffer from cooking fires. However, restaurants are more likely to experience a cooking fire. According to the National Fire Protection Association, cooking equipment was the leading cause of fires in all health care facilities.

Lighting/Electrical Issues

Worn-out electrical cords and faulty wiring are also causes of commercial fires. Many electrical or lighting problems can develop from old defective wiring, overloaded circuits, faulty fuses, and many other electrical issues. 

Smoking

Cigarettes that are not extinguished and disposed of properly cause smoking and can lead to a fire. According to the National Fire Protection Association, smoking materials account for 9% of fires in commercial buildings.

Heating Equipment

In our area during the winter season, we use heating equipment more frequently than in other states. Furnaces, radiators, and boilers can overheat and result in a fire. In addition, improperly installing equipment can prove to be hazardous and also cause a fire. It is important to have heating equipment installed by trusted professionals. Having the heating equipment maintained regularly and checking if it is in good working condition can also prevent a fire.

Fire Alarms and Smoke Detectors

It is important to follow fire regulations for all commercial buildings. Fire alarms and smoke detectors are vital components of an early warning system. Review our fire safety tips to ensure everyone understands how to minimize the risk for commercial fires.

Quick Response Around College Park / Hyattsville / District Heights / Landover

Trust our team at SERVPRO® of College Park / Hyattsville and SERVPRO® of District Heights / Landover. Our team will work around the clock to keep your business running and make it “Like it never even happened.” Call us today for a free quote.

For College Park/Hyattsville dial 301-779-3662

For District Heights/Landover dial 301-577-1166

Back to School SERVPRO Preventative Cleaning

8/16/2021 (Permalink)

Choose Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned to help keep your customers, employees, students, and teachers safe.

SERVPRO of College Park/Hyattsville & SERVPRO of District Heights/Landover Can Help Get Your Schools And Daycares Safe For Everyone

August is here, and we are heading into another school year! Last year SERVPRO worked with schools and daycares in the DMV area to help keep their customers, employees, students, and teachers safe. This year, as a result of the delta variant and increasing COVID-19 cases, masks are recommended and required. SERVPRO of College Park/Hyattsville and SERVPRO of District Heights/Landover can help you keep schools and daycares cleaned and disinfected.

We want to show our support this upcoming school year by providing cleaning services including, disinfecting, sanitizing, and proactively cleaning. Our cleanup procedures are in accordance with the CDC recommendations and local authorities. Surfaces to consider for cleaning and disinfecting include but are not limited to classrooms, offices, bathrooms, hallways, cafeterias, and teacher lounges.

SERVPRO® of College Park/Hyattsville and SERVPRO® of District Heights/Landover are called on by businesses to perform the necessary services to clean, sanitize, and disinfect commercial properties. Call us today! Our dispatchers can provide you with more information about our services and get you scheduled for an appointment. Our cleaning services can be scheduled recurring and also one-time.

To schedule a consultation for our Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned program, call us at 301-779-3662 or 301-577-1166. We are here to help!

Commercial Fire Restoration in College Park/Hyattsville and District Heights/Landover

8/5/2021 (Permalink)

Commercial fires in the College Park/Hyattsville and District Heights/Landover area can be critical. A fire can quickly spread and impact your equipment, property, hours of operation and can even put your team at risk. Additional damage from water and mold can occur after a fire. Good planning can help ensure that a fire does not happen. Read on to learn more about the top causes of commercial fires and how to prevent such fires.

Cooking incidents

Cooking incidents are the top cause of cooking fires. Flammable materials and high cooking temperatures together can be dangerous if not used properly. All businesses can suffer from cooking fires. However, restaurants are more likely to experience a cooking fire. According to the National Fire Protection Association, cooking equipment was the leading cause of fires in all health care facilities.

Lighting/Electrical Issues

Worn-out electrical cords and faulty wiring are also causes of commercial fires. Many electrical or lighting problems can develop from old defective wiring, overloaded circuits, faulty fuses, and many other electrical issues. 

Smoking

Cigarettes that are not extinguished and disposed of properly cause smoking and can lead to a fire. According to the National Fire Protection Association, smoking materials account for 9% of fires in commercial buildings.

Heating Equipment

In our area during the winter season, we use heating equipment more frequently than in other states. Furnaces, radiators, and boilers can overheat and result in a fire. In addition, improperly installing equipment can prove to be hazardous and cause a fire. It is important to have heating equipment installed by trusted professionals. Having the heating equipment maintained regularly and checking if it is in good working condition can also prevent a fire.

Fire Alarms and Smoke Detectors

It is important to follow fire regulations for all commercial buildings. Fire alarms and smoke detectors are vital components of an early warning system. Review our fire safety tips to ensure everyone understands how to minimize the risk for commercial fires.

Quick Response Around College Park / Hyattsville / District Heights / Landover

Trust our team at SERVPRO® of College Park / Hyattsville and SERVPRO® of District Heights / Landover. Our team will work around the clock to keep your business running and make it “Like it never even happened.” Call us today for a free quote.

For College Park/Hyattsville dial 301-779-3662

For District Heights/Landover dial 301-577-1166

Commercial Fire Damage in a Local Violin Shop

5/27/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of College Park / Hyattsville and SERVPRO of District Heights / Landover cleaned and restored a violin shop that was damaged by fire

During recent events, a fire broke out in a local College Park violin shop. SERVPRO of College Park / Hyattsville and SERVPRO of District Heights / Landover removed and hauled away everything from the damaged section of the building. Our crew cleaned everything in the violin shop. We placed containment areas with hydroxyl machines to treat all of the musical instruments and cases. SERVPRO also arranged for a generator to run electrical cords throughout the violin shop. We were able to keep the business open through the whole cleaning and restoration process.

SERVPRO of College Park / Hyattsville and SERVPRO of District Heights / Landover professionals are ready to clean and restore your business. We recognize that a safe environment is important for your business and that every hour spent restoring is an hour missed in productivity. When you need cleaning and restoration services, SERVPRO of College Park / Hyattsville and SERVPRO of District Heights / Landover are Here to Help.

If you have commercial fire damage or would like to get a free Emergency Response Plan for your business, call SERVPRO of College Park / Hyattsville and SERVPRO of District Heights / Landover today.

For SERVPRO of College Park / Hyattsville Call: 301-799-3662

For SERVPRO of District Heights / Landover Call: 301-577-1166

Understand Why You Need Trained Pros When Dealing With Mold

5/4/2021 (Permalink)

Don’t delay, if you have mold problem call SERVPRO of College Park / Hyattsville and SERVPRO of District Heights / Landover today

Mold damage incidents in commercial buildings are often a challenge to fix. If you suspect mold in your commercial building, do not hesitate to call SERVPRO of College Park / Hyattsville and SERVPRO of District Heights / Landover. When you are dealing with mold, it is time-sensitive. Severe damages to your commercial building can occur if you do not control moisture levels and eliminate mold growth.

Moisture problems may include:

• Unvented combustion appliances
• Delayed maintenance or insufficient maintenance are also associated with moisture problems 
• Landscaping/gutters that direct water into or under the commercial buildings
• Roof leaks and pipe leaks

Places where you can find mold:

• Wood
• Paper
• Carpet
• Foods
• Insulation
• On organic substance
• In commercial buildings and on commercial building materials

When mold growth occurs in commercial buildings, bring in the experts, SERVPRO of College Park / Hyattsville and SERVPRO of District Heights / Landover, to check out the damages. We tackle commercial and residential damage. Let us help you prevent damage to building materials, and save money.

So How Are Our Crews Trained?

SERVPRO is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standard for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.

We Are Here to Help

For SERVPRO of College Park / Hyattsville (301) 779 - 3662.

For SERVPRO of District Heights / Landover (301) 557 - 1166.

Commercial property loss doesn't wait for regular business hours, and neither do we. SERVPRO of College Park / Hyattsville and SERVPRO of District Heights / Landover provide emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 / 7/ 365.

Keeping PG County Residents Safe During Storms

3/30/2021 (Permalink)

As a property manager, Leaving your property after a big storm can be terrifying. The extent of the damage to your property can vary from mild to serious. You can rest assured that a SERVPRO of College Park / Hyattsville and SERVPRO of District Heights / Landover restoration specialist in Prince Geroge’s county will be able to assist in cleaning up and rebuilding from almost any damage. You can begin recovery before support arrives by following these storm recovery tips.

Storm Recovery Tips

Safety

Your first priority is protection. Look for fallen power lines, trees that have been damaged and are at risk of falling, structural damage to your house, and any other dangerous storm damage.

Company

If you are alone, try to connect with others, particularly residents who may be alone or in need of assistance. Many individuals can be pushed to their best by hardship. You can work together to accomplish things that you couldn't do alone, such as food planning, shelter setup or cleanup, or even fire starting if the weather is especially cold.

Information

Look for radio, television, telephone, or another useful communication device in a secure location. News sources and emergency broadcasts may provide useful information on where to anticipate rescue teams.

Water

If help is unlikely to arrive for more than a day, water can pose the greatest threat to your and your resident’s health. Water that has been stored can be incredibly useful. If you don't have clean water, make sure to purify any available water. Here are a few strategies for purifying water: 

• Iodine solution
• Chlorine fall 
• Filtering

Following these storm tips will help ensure that you and your residents recover safely from the effects of storm destruction. And if the post-storm damage is too big for you to handle, don't wait! Call SERVPRO of College Park / Hyattsville and SERVPRO of District Heights / Landover right away. 

Learn More About Our Disaster Recovery Team >

3 Tips To Operate Your Business During A Power Outage

3/23/2021 (Permalink)

Power outages are one of the most common problems, particularly during thunder and wind storms. Dealing with a power outage can be aggravating, but there are a few tactics you can use to keep regular operations running when bad weather threatens to disrupt them.

Recommended Tips

1. Be Prepared With a Generator

Getting a portable generator on hand will assist you in keeping your business going during a storm. This is particularly useful if your store is crowded with customers. A generator will power the lights, heat, and air conditioning. If you own a restaurant, a generator will keep your refrigerators and freezers going so that food does not spoil.

2. Find Nearby Wi-Fi

If you own a small company, you should relocate it to a nearby café or coffee shop to take advantage of free Wi-Fi. Consider holding a meeting or catching up on invoices during the downtime. If your phone service is down and you don't have access to a mobile phone, you can also contact storm damage and cleanup services from your laptop.

3. Connect at Home

If a power outage causes you to close your building temporarily, you can save time by working from home and communicating with your employees from there. Request that your social media manager create new infographics and notify your followers of the temporary closure. Your content writers and bloggers will work from home and email you their posts. Although this is not the optimal mode of service, it can help you prevent a full shutdown before power is restored.

Business Disasters: Is Your Business Protected?

3/17/2021 (Permalink)

Equipment malfunction caused this flood in a manufacturing plant. Not only was the production floor affected, so to was this restroom.

Business Disasters

A disaster is described as a significant disturbance in the functioning of a community or society that occurs over a relatively short period of time and results in widespread human, material, economic, or environmental loss. When we speak to business people, they think of a catastrophe as a big weather-related occurrence. A hurricane, a massive storm, or something along those lines. On a weekly basis, we see disasters, though on a smaller scale, to commercial properties.

In a commercial setting, a disaster is described as something that disrupts business or damages services or products, negatively impacting profitability. Here are some of the most common disasters we encounter.

• Failed Plumbing
• Appliances & Equipment
• Sprinkler System Malfunction
  
• Roof Leaks
  

Failed Plumbing

A commercial building, like your house, is vulnerable to faulty plumbing. Frozen pipe bursts are normal in the winter because people may try to save money by not keeping the property from freezing. The strain on plumbing caused by daily harsh use can also weaken and expose the plumbing..

Appliances & Equipment

From a basic water heater failure to big equipment requiring high water pressure, we've got you covered. Even with the best maintenance, appliances and equipment will fail. Examine the machinery in your commercial house. If you own a restaurant or provide food service, you will be more vulnerable.

Sprinkler System Malfunction

Get the sprinkler system serviced at least once a year. This is the most effective way to avoid malfunctions.

Roof Leaks

Okay, this one is weather-related. However, if you have roof problems, it does not take a major thunderstorm to leave water in your house. A simple shower can cause significant damage if the roof causes it to leak inside.

Protect Your Pipes

3/8/2021 (Permalink)

Spring is just around the corner, but that doesn't mean the cold weather can go away right away. Rather, in the coming months, temperatures will fluctuate, with some warm days that are typical of spring and some cold days. Variable temperatures can cause havoc in your company by causing damage to pipes, which can result in water damage if they burst. As temperatures change, water in the pipes expands and contracts, causing increased pressure in the pipes.

Under this strain, pipes burst. Since burst pipes can cause significant water damage to your commercial building, it's critical to understand how to prevent them from happening in the first place, as well as how to deal with the water damage if they do.

Prevention

First and foremost, ensure that the company is covered by a water damage insurance policy that includes burst pipes. In the end, cleaning services can be expensive. Pipes that are outside or in unheated locations should be covered in insulated sleeves to keep the water inside from freezing in the winter. If pipes do freeze, it might be helpful to run water through them to prevent them from bursting. Finally, inspecting pipes for small leaks regularly is a good preventative measure to take, particularly as the weather gets colder.

If Your Pipes Burst…

At the first sign of a burst pipe, switch off the water, power, and heating systems to reduce the damage caused by the ruptured pipes. Documents, inventory, and other valuable objects should be transferred to a safe location as soon as possible, as water from burst pipes can harm or kill them.

Check the building for signs of water damage, such as stains or discoloration, musty odors, or mold formation, whether it is safe to do so. It can also be useful to open doors and windows, as this allows air to circulate within the structure, drying any damp areas and preventing mold or mildew growth. Your company must get back on its feet quickly after a burst pipe, so contact SERVPRO to repair any water-damaged areas of your business as soon as possible, "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO's Relationships

4/22/2020 (Permalink)

Involvement by our SERVPRO at all levels in the community cannot be understated. One of these levels is at the city and county economic level. Every town and city has a vested interest in trying to help their local business survive and thrive, providing much needed jobs to the members of their communities and also providing economic stimulus and tax revenue generation. 

These needs get interrupted when disaster strikes a business and it is vital to get their operations back up and running, as quickly as possible, "Like it never even happened." This is where the relationships you form with SERVPRO prior to the disaster striking are so important. Does your business already have a SERVPRO Representative (SMR) assigned to you? If not, complete a internet search for your local SERVPRO franchise and ask for one to be assigned to you. This SMR will go through the process of educating your business about all that they can do in advance of the coming disaster, to help you prepare so that when it happens, it is not as costly to you in downtime and lost production.       

There are many different ways to get involved with your community business members. Building relationships with our local businesses is key for when large events happen at this level, those leaders run in small circles and great relationships are needed here, so those business leaders can get their business's back up and running and restore their communities to like it was before the disaster.... "Like it never even happened." 

Commercial Fire Deodorization

4/21/2020 (Permalink)

This is a large commercial fire damage we produced as a result of an electrical malfunction. SERVPRO of College Park / Hyattsville. had a first responder on site quickly to expedite cleaning, demolition, and deodorization scope and planning. As this was located at a gymnasium, the vast majority of space was warehouse, with built-in tiered offices and party rooms. Total affected space in the building was 15,500 square feet, which made for an enormous amount of volume to conduct final deodorization. After weeks of demolition and specialized cleaning, we conducted thermal fogging for the final deodorization. Our two technicians donned their proper PPE (Personal Protective Equipment), and fogged the entire cubic area of the gym. The photo shows the fogging after disperse, with the capability of it penetrating into high and small cavities.

Build Your Emergency Kit

3/27/2020 (Permalink)

Whether if it is at home, in a business setting, or in your very own vehicle, it is important to be properly equipped with an emergency kit.

Now, the true question is what are the essentials needed to complete this kit? Ready.gov suggests having enough supplies to last you at least three days. In the state of an emergency, this is critical.

Below, you can find a list of items that we believe are necessary to include in your emergency kit:

• 3 day supply of non-perishable foods
• Water
• First aid kit
• Medication
• Fire extinguisher
• Hygiene products 
• Flashlights
• Batteries
• Chargers
• Clothes
• Matches in a waterproof container
• Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities 
• Whistle - to signal for help
• Pet supplies
• Infant formula and diapers
• Important documents such as insurance policies, IDs, and bank records in a plastic container

Establishing an Emergency Ready Plan for Your Business

3/27/2020 (Permalink)

You can’t plan when an emergency will arise, but you can prepare for it before it does. This is especially important if you are a business owner. When a disaster occurs in your business, everything screeches to a halt. You are no longer able to help your customers and clients. You are no longer able to offer your services. You are no longer bringing in an income. Business has been interrupted and depending on the extent of the damage, you may be looking at a long road to recovery – not just for remediation, but also to get your business back to where it was before the disaster happened. So, what can you do to prevent an emergency situation from shutting down your business? While you can’t necessarily prevent disaster from occurring (it happens to the best of us), you can prepare for what to do when it does. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can minimize how fire and water affect your business.

That is where SERVPRO comes in. We can establish a plan for your business using our ERP, or Emergency READY Profile.

• A no cost assessment of your facility. This means there is no need to allocate funds, giving you a great value at no cost.
• A Profile Document containing only the crucial information you will need in case of an emergency. It doesn’t take very long to complete, but it will save you a lot of time (and from one more headache) if you ever need it.
• A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster. By having an immediate plan of action, you can help minimize downtime.
• Establishes SERVPRO as your emergency mitigation and restoration provider. You have a provider that is recognized as an industry leader and is located right here in San Antonio.
• Identifies the line of command for authorizing work to begin. This saves time so that we can begin the work of mitigating the damage immediately, which can save you both time and money.
• Provides important facility details such as priority contact information, priority areas, and shut-off valves. Having a quick reference of what to do, how to do it, and who to call provides solutions in advance of an emergency so that during the emergency you are “Ready for whatever happens.”

Cleaner Air Makes for Healthy Employees

3/17/2020 (Permalink)

Think about the air quality you breathe regularly: both indoors and outdoors. Which type of air quality do you think is cleaner? If you believe the indoor air quality is cleaner as opposed to the outdoor air quality, think again. The EPA estimates that indoor air contains two to five times more pollution than outdoor air quality. Poor air quality causes problems such as reoccurring colds and sore throats or even headaches, asthma, allergies, and chronic fatigue. As a result, this could cause more employees to need copious amounts of down time ultimately leading them away from productivity.

When dust, debris, and other contaminants build up in your heater, ventilation system, and air conditioner, they can trigger allergies and other health issues. Additionally, these contaminants reduce your energy efficiency, which can ultimately increase your energy costs. These are two compelling reasons to confirm the air ducts and HVAC system in your workplace are running efficiently.

Ventilation systems are often the biggest culprit in poor indoor air quality. We suggest that you make it a priority to inspect the duct work of your home or business when it is being built. If your HVAC has been operating for some time without attention, it could be circulating at least one of the following unwanted contaminants throughout the space that which you spend most of your day breathing in:

• Dust
• Pollen
• Odors
• Dirt and debris
• Other contaminants

SERVPRO professionals routinely inspect the heating, ventilation, or air conditioning (HVAC) units. Keeping these machines clean not only extends the equipment’s lifetime, but it will also save money and time. This will, therefore, provide a better air quality experience throughout your everyday life.

Although, duct cleaning is not always necessary, we will at least make recommendations about the best way to address any indoor air quality concerns. Additionally, this will boost the quality of air that is currently circulating your work environment that will contribute to your peace of mind.

Here are the benefits of servicing your HVAC unit regularly:

• Restores peak energy efficiency.
• May help eliminate offensive odors.
• Reduces the potential for mold growth.

At least one of these benefits should help you take a step in the right direction when it comes to maintaining a cleaner HVAC system. If you do not, it can become detrimental to your health.   

Cleaner air makes for healthier employees

3/13/2019 (Permalink)

If you think the air you breathe indoors is cleaner than what’s outside, think again. The EPA estimates indoor air can be two to five times more polluted than outdoor air. All that bad air translates into everything from frequent colds and sore throats to headaches, asthma, allergies and chronic fatigue, which in turn causes employee downtime.

When dust, debris and other contaminants build up in your heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system, they can trigger allergies and other health issues. But they also reduce energy efficiency, which increases your energy costs. Now you have two compelling reasons to make sure the air ducts and HVAC system in your workplace are running efficiently.

Ventilation systems are often the biggest culprit in poor indoor air quality. Make it a priority to inspect the ductwork of your home or business.

If your HVAC has been operating for some time without attention, it could be circulating one or more of the following:

Dust

Pollen

Odors

Dirt and debris

Other contaminants

SERVPRO Professionals routinely inspect the heating, ventilation and air conditioning unit (HVAC).  Keeping them clean can extend the life of the equipment. This can in turn save you money and give you cleaner air to breathe.

However, duct cleaning is not always necessary. We will make recommendations about the best way to address any indoor air quality concerns. This can save you money and provide peace of mind on the health of your system.

The benefits of servicing your HVAC unit include:

Helps to restore peak energy efficiency.

May help to eliminate offensive odors.

Helps reduce the potential for mold growth.

SERVPRO relationships with businesses

3/13/2019 (Permalink)

Involvement by our SERVPRO at all levels in the community can not be understated. One of these levels is at the city and county economic level. Every town and city has a vested interest in trying to help their local business survive and thrive, providing much needed jobs to the members of their communities and also providing economic stimulus and tax revenue generation. 

These needs get interrupted when disaster strikes a business and it is vital to get their operations back up and running, as quickly as possible, "Like it never even happened." This is where the relationships you form with SERVPRO prior to the disaster striking are so important. Does your business already have a SERVPRO Representative (SMR) assigned to you? If not, complete a internet search for your local SERVPRO franchise and ask for one to be assigned to you. This SMR will go through the process of educating your business about all that they can do in advance of the coming disaster, to help you prepare so that when it happens, it is not as costly to you in downtime and lost production.       

There are many different ways to get involved with your community business members. Building relationships with our local businesses is key for when large events happen at this level, those leaders run in small circles and great relationships are needed here, so those business leaders can get their business's back up and running and restore their communities to like it was before the disaster.... "Like it never even happened." 

Water damage in your business

3/13/2019 (Permalink)

There are many property issues that business managers may have to grapple with, commercial water damage being one of the worst. Unfortunately, this type of damage can occur in the business setting at any moment. Whether the water damage results from a natural disaster or office mishap, substantial structural deterioration or destruction is often the result. In many cases, the emotional and economic pains that water produces force business owners to close their companies permanently. However, learning more about commercial water damage and how to efficiently complete the cleanup process, using an experienced company like SERVPRO, can help you impede this from happening.

Commercial Water Damage: Key Causes. The undesired result can be from numerous factors. The damages can result from flooding, roof leaks, frozen pipes, ice dams, and sewage backups. Additionally, disasters like fires can require extinguishing work from the fire department, leaving large quantities of standing water behind. No matter the cause of water intrusion, the effect is often the same: actual damage to the structural integrity of your property coupled with the compromise of safety to employees, and clients.

Identifying The Source Of The Problem. To deal with water damage effectively, you have to identify the source of the problem and then eliminate it. It's also important to know that there will be different methodologies for water damage restoration depending on the source. Excess water flowing from a broken or frozen pipe or ice damming on the roof will be handled differently than issues which result from floodwater or a sewage backup.

Avoiding DIY Projects. Business proprietors are tempted to begin the cleanup process by themselves to quickly reopen the doors to commerce. If the normal business traffic patterns have been disrupted, then it is time to call in SERVPRO, to mitigate water damage restoration time and costs. Rapid water pumping will diminish downtime and lessen damage to inventory, office furniture, supplies, and the building's structural components. Precise assessment and planning get results.

Contact SERVPRO Today. If your commercial property has been impacted by water damage, it's time to take action. When you call the friendly professionals of SERVPRO, you'll receive a fast response from IICRC-certified technicians who use cutting edge equipment and customized methodologies to expedite the restoration process. Our techs are trained in water damage restoration, applied structural drying techniques, odor control, and mold remediation. Cleaning and restoring, as opposed to more costly replacing, is our policy so that we save you money as we quickly work to get your business back in business. "Like it never 

Local Businesses can count on SERVPRO

3/13/2019 (Permalink)

Commercial Property owners and Property Managers are entrusted with keeping their businesses operational. When Disaster Strikes, SERVPRO is here to help make it “Like it never even happened.” We've assisted some of the Area's largest properties following disasters.  Denny's and many others have utilized our Commercial and Industrial Services. Facilities Managers rely on us to be Ready for Whatever Happens.

General Adjusteter and Consulting firms from around the Chicago and trust SERVPRO with their must complex claims. Some of our specialties include

• Small Office Buildings
• Large Office/High-Rise Office Buildings
• Apartment Buildings
• Restaurants
• Hotel/Motels
• Small Retail Stores
• Large Retail/Big-Box Stores
• High-Rise Residential
• Manufacturing & Industrial
• Government/Military
• Universities
• Schools
• Restaurants
• Commercial Disaster Recovery Services 
• Commercial Reconstruction

Commercial Buildings and Water Damage

3/13/2019 (Permalink)

Water Damaged Warehouse

There are many property issues that business managers may have to grapple with, commercial water damage being one of the worst. Unfortunately, this type of damage can occur in the business setting at any moment. Whether the water damage results from a natural disaster or office mishap, substantial structural deterioration or destruction is often the result. In many cases, the emotional and economic pains that water damage produces force business owners to close their companies permanently. However, learning more about commercial water damage and how to efficiently complete the cleanup process, using an experienced company like SERVPRO, can help you impede this from happening.

Commercial Water Damage: Key Causes. The undesired result can be from numerous factors. The damages can result from flooding, roof leaks, frozen pipes, ice dams, and sewage backups. Additionally, disasters like fires can require extinguishing work from the fire department, leaving large quantities of standing water behind. No matter the cause of water intrusion, the effect is often the same: actual damage to the structural integrity of your property coupled with the compromise of safety to employees, and clients.

Identifying The Source Of The Problem. To deal with water damage effectively, you have to identify the source of the problem and then eliminate it. It's also important to know that there will be different methodologies for water damage restoration depending on the source. Excess water flowing from a broken or frozen pipe or ice damming on the roof will be handled differently than issues which result from floodwater or a sewage backup.

Avoiding DIY Projects. Business proprietors are tempted to begin the cleanup process by themselves to quickly reopen the doors to commerce. If the normal business traffic patterns have been disrupted, then it is time to call in SERVPRO, to mitigate water damage restoration time and costs. Rapid water pumping will diminish downtime and lessen damage to inventory, office furniture, supplies, and the building's structural components. Precise assessment and planning get results.

Contact SERVPRO Today. If your commercial property has been impacted by water damage, it's time to take action. When you call the friendly professionals of SERVPRO, you'll receive a fast response from IICRC-certified technicians who use cutting edge equipment and customized methodologies to expedite the restoration process. Our techs are trained in water damage restoration, applied structural drying techniques, odor control, and mold remediation. Cleaning and restoring, as opposed to more costly replacing, is our policy so that we save you money as we quickly work to get your business back in business. "Like it never even happened."

Has Your Business or Home Sustained a Water Damage?

3/13/2019 (Permalink)

Not what you want to see in your home or business.

This time of year storms can pop up with little notice and often be severe in nature, causing wide spread power outages, localized flooding, and heavy wind damage. Often times sump pumps can become overwhelmed or fail due to overuse, causing basement flooding or other parts of your structure to be inundated with water of sewage backup. Being prepared ahead of time can mean the difference between a minor inconvenience or thousands of dollars in mitigation, restoration, and repairs. 

Having your sump pump inspected by a licensed professional, installing a battery back up system, a portable generator, moisture detection systems and check valves can also play a major role in the survivability of your commercial structure or home.

Even with some of those precautions being taken, disaster can still strike. That is when having a response team already in mind comes into play. Whether already having SOMEONE PROGRAMMED into your phone or having a qualified SERVPRO Representative complete a Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) in advance, these can be the most important steps you take.

Don't just let anyone help you on your next mitigation and restoration disaster, call the best call SERVPRO With our wide service area and trained and certified teams, we will make it "Like it never even happened."

#waterdamage #sewerdamage #flood #boardup #firedamage #smokedamage #sootdamage #biocleanup #mold

Do Not Neglect Vacant Property

3/12/2019 (Permalink)

The old adage is “out of sight, out of mind.” If you are a busy commercial property owner or manager you have a lot on your plate. Your priority tends to revolve around taking care of issues of the occupied spaces under your care. Neglecting vacant property this time of year however, can be disastrous.

One of the greatest issue we see this time of year is a lack of adequate heat in vacant structures. The key word is adequate! We were called to a vacant property in Joplin last winter during extremely low temperatures. The heat was on, set to 55 degrees. The problem, the plumbing was above a suspended ceiling. The air around that plumbing was not 55 degrees, it was well below freezing and the plumbing froze and burst in multiple places. That was a mistake that cost the owners tens of thousands of dollars.

Best case scenario is to winterize the property, shutting off the water supply and flushing the system. But that is not always an option. If the water supply is left on, be conscience of the temperature WHERE the plumbing is.

Exposed Roof Damages Church During Rainfall

3/12/2019 (Permalink)

Containment was set to protect other parts of the church.

Last month SERVPRO had the opportunity to help dry out a church damaged by water. An independent roofing contractor was replacing the roof and neglected to properly make a portion of the roof water tight. Unexpectantly a summer storm developed over Carthage, in the evening, dumping heavy rainfall into the vulnerable building.

SERVPRO was called to mitigate and dry the property. The water had damaged half of the fellowship hall so our technicians installed a 40-foot-long by 10-foot-tall containment barrier. Besides the fellowship hall there was extensive damage to a library and several offices. Instead of removing the entire ceiling technicians cut narrow troughs in the ceiling to remove wet insulation. Once the debris was removed hot dry air was piped into the cavity to expedite drying.  

This particular church was protected by our ERP Emergency Ready Profile. The ERP was designed to mitigate damage and make a fast response to a disaster. Dealing with a natural disaster such as this it is difficult to mitigate damages, but they knew exactly who to call. Once SERVPRO was informed of the loss they knew exactly who they needed to speak with and how to tackle the situation based on their prior knowledge of the building.

You gotta look good!

9/18/2018 (Permalink)

First impressions are hard to overcome if they are negative ones. You want the first impression of your business site to be positive. That's hard to do if it's dirty.

Keeping your business clean to make that great first impression is important. You want to keep your clients coming back and we want to help you.

There's so much that SERVPRO can help you with.

I'm sure you think of SERVPRO when a disaster hits but we can do some things you may not have thought about.

SERVPRO offers a variety of cleaning services from Air Ducts /HVAC to biohazard and everything in between.

We can clean carpet, upholstery, drapes, and blinds.

We can bring that old tile back to life and make your floors sparkle again.

We can also get rid of lingering odors and perform a deodorization of the facility.

As always, we are here to help.

Let us help you keep your place shining and making great first impressions for year

Should you clean your commercial air ducts?

8/28/2018 (Permalink)

Indoor air can get polluted with dust, allergens, and other small particles. If you are concerned about your indoor air quality, you might benefit from having your air ducts cleaned. Having your air ducts professionally cleaned may make a difference in the overall quality of your indoor air. And, cleaning your air ducts may also help your HVAC system function more efficiently.

When it comes to air duct cleaning, homeowners often have many questions. Here are a few of the most common:

Does a professional air duct cleaning really make a difference?
A professional air duct cleaning can benefit you in more than one way. First, the cleaning will remove dust, debris and other pollutants from your air duct system. This can be beneficial to anyone living in the home who suffers from allergies, has breathing problems, or is sensitive to pollutants. Second, clean air ducts can result in a more efficient HVAC system. When your home’s ventilation system is clean, it can function more efficiently – which may ultimately save you money on your monthly energy bill.

How often should I have my air ducts cleaned?
Unless you are in the midst of a home renovation project or you live in an area with extremely high pollution, you should not need to clean your air ducts more than once a year. In fact, after your air ducts are professionally cleaned, you may not need another thorough cleaning for several years. For advice on how often you should have your air ducts cleaned, make sure to ask your air conditioner repair company. If the air conditioner company does not offer air duct cleaning services, they should be able to provide you with the name of a reputable company to call.

Can I clean the air ducts in my home myself?
Many homeowners wonder if they can clean their home’s air ducts with their own vacuum cleaner. In reality, it is practically impossible to clean an air duct system with a regular vacuum. Air duct cleaning companies use special equipment that is designed to specifically clean air ducts. As a homeowner, one of the best things you can do to prevent pollutants from infiltrating your air ducts is regularly change your HVAC system’s air filters.

Is a professional air duct cleaning expensive?
The cost of air duct cleaning services varies. Factors that are taken into consideration when an air duct cleaning company provides you with a quote include the number of air ducts in your home, the age of your home, the length of time since the air ducts were last cleaned, the current condition of the air ducts, and more. 

The benefits of servicing your HVAC unit include:

• Helps to restore peak energy efficiency.
• May help to eliminate offensive odors.
• Helps reduce the potential for mold growth.

The importance of having a fire extinguisher in your home or business

8/27/2018 (Permalink)

You could save your home from fire with a fire extinguisher at your ready.

Close your eyes and imagine. You’re at home, or maybe in the office, and you smell ... smoke? Definitely smoke. Fire! You don’t panic, because you’re not the type and you’re prepared. You grab the nearest fire extinguisher, find the flames. You get ready, aim.... and suddenly realize you don’t know how this thing works.

Fire extinguishers can be the first line of defense if fire breaks out in your home or business, but they won’t do you any good if you don’t know how to use them or have the wrong extinguisher for the job. When it comes to fire, plan, prepare and remain calm. Knowing how, when and why to use your fire extinguisher—not to mention which fire extinguisher to use—will increase both your safety and peace of mind knowing you can protect you and your belonging from FIRE DAMAGE

When to Use a Fire Extinguisher
Home or office, when a fire breaks out you have moments to decide: fight or flight? If you feel even the slightest doubt about handling it yourself, move everyone to a safe place and call 911. Ditto if you don’t know how to use your extinguisher or aren’t sure it’s the right class for the fire you’re fighting; better to let the pros handle it than to try to navigate the learning curve mid-fire.

If you decide you can safely put out the fire, grab the extinguisher and get busy, after you locate a safe way out. If you spot a clear exit but it doesn’t look to stay clear long, get out now.

What Kind of Extinguisher to Use
Home- and business owners can choose from five types of fire extinguishers:

• Class A: for a fire involving normal combustibles and flammables, including cloth, paper and wood
• Class B: for a fire involving flammable liquids like gas, oil, paint, paint thinner and solvents
• Class C: to fight a fire involving electrical equipment/appliances that are plugged in and receiving power—electric drills, table saws, computer equipment, televisions, wiring and fuse boxes, for example
• Class D: to put out a fire involving combustible metals—magnesium, sodium, zirconium, etc. (Note: Don’t try to fight this kind of fire unless you’ve been specifically trained for it!)
• Class K: for fires typically found in restaurants, involving cooking oil and commercial-grade cooking equipment

Some fires involve several or all of the above. Fortunately, fire extinguishers are labeled not only with the types of fire they’re designed to fight, but with the types of fire you should avoid using them on. Example: Never use a Class A extinguisher on a Class B or C fire—the results could be deadly!

Fire Extinguisher How-to

1. Stand six to eight feet away from the flames.
2. Make sure you have a clear exit, in case the fire spreads or flames out of control.
3. Pull the pin to unlock the operating lever.
4. Aim the hose at the base of the fire.
5. Press the lever located above the handle to release the agent.
6. Use a back-and-forth sweeping motion to saturate the base of the fire until the flames are extinguished.
7. Continue the process if the fire re-ignites.
8. If the fire doesn’t go out or spreads, get to safety.

Extinguisher Safety Tips

• Install fire extinguishers in areas where fires are likely to break out, including kitchens and break rooms.
• Check periodically to make sure all fire extinguishers are fully charged.
• Show every family member or employee where the fire extinguishers and fire alarms are located.
• Train yourself, your loved ones and your co-workers to use the equipment properly.

Even with a fire extinguisher, some fire damage will occur.

Fire Deodorization - Commercial

8/27/2018 (Permalink)

This is a large commercial fire damage we produced as a result of an electrical malfunction. SERVPRO of College Park/Hyattsville had a first responder on site quickly to expedite cleaning, demolition, and deodorization scope and planning. As this was a gymnasium, the vast majority of space was warehouse, with built-in tiered offices and party rooms. Total affected space in the building was 15,500 square feet, which made for an enormous amount of volume to conduct final deodorization. After weeks of demolition and specialized cleaning, we conducted thermal fogging for the final deodorization. Our two technicians donned their proper PPE (Personal Protective Equipment), and fogged the entire cubic area of the gym. The photo shows the fogging after disperse, with the capability of it penetrating into high and small cavities.

Get Your Commercial Property Up and Running!

8/27/2018 (Permalink)

Get your office building up and running in no time!

Flooding and water damage events in commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

SERVPRO of College Park/Hyattsville specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property as soon as possible to make it look like it never happened.

SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile

8/27/2018 (Permalink)

As many as 50% of businesses close down following a disaster. Of the businesses that survive, the majority of them have had a preparedness plan already created. In the event your business is affected by a disaster, your clients and employees will have peace of mind if you are ready for whatever happens.

Creating a SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile for your business, can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business. At no cost to you, SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile saves time so we can begin the work of mitigating the damage which can save you time and money.