Commercial Mold Remediation

12/6/2024 (Permalink)

Visual Growth in a Bathroom

Mold can enter your business in a variety of ways. Once spotted, it’s important you contact a cleanup and restoration company like SERVPRO® as soon as possible. Given its ability to spread in 72 hours or less, and the possibility of allergens and irritants that may cause health effects as a result, time is of the essence when mold spreads in your business or commercial property.

We understand the urgency of returning your business to functioning condition, given that every hour of closed business is an hour of lost production and revenue. Take the necessary steps to help protect your customers, employees, and the health of your business by having our team assess and remediate any mold damage that may have grown in your commercial space.

Give SERVPRO Team Harloe a call today ! 

Fire safety Tips

12/6/2024 (Permalink)

1. Install Smoke Alarms

• Make sure smoke alarms are installed on every level of your home, inside each bedroom, and outside sleeping areas.
• Test alarms monthly and change the batteries at least once a year.

2. Create and Practice a Fire Escape Plan

• Plan and practice two ways out of every room, and ensure everyone knows where to meet outside.
• Practice your escape plan at least twice a year, including during the night.

3. Keep Fire Extinguishers Nearby

• Place fire extinguishers in key areas like the kitchen, garage, and near any potential fire hazards.
• Make sure everyone knows how to use them (PASS method: Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep).

Call SERVPRO Team Harloe today! We are available 24/7 and always Here to Help® with your mitigation needs. 

Space Heater Tips

12/6/2024 (Permalink)

Here are some important space heater fire safety tips to help keep your home and family safe this winter:

1. Keep Flammable Objects Away

• Keep space heaters at least 3 feet away from anything that can catch fire, including curtains, furniture, blankets, and papers.

2. Turn Off When Not in Use

• Never leave a space heater running unattended. Always turn it off when you leave the room or go to bed.

3. Use the Right Heater for the Room

• Ensure your space heater is rated for the size of the room you're heating. Avoid using a heater that is too powerful for a small space or too weak for a large room.

4. Place Heaters on a Flat, Stable Surface

• Always place space heaters on a flat, level surface. Avoid placing them on soft surfaces like carpets or beds, which can increase the risk of tipping.

5. Inspect Before Use

• Check your space heater's cord, plug, and wiring for any damage before use. Never use a heater with a frayed or exposed cord.

6. Use Only Approved Heaters

• Only use space heaters that have been tested and approved by safety standards, such as those from UL (Underwriters Laboratories).

7. Avoid Extension Cords

• Plug space heaters directly into the wall socket. Avoid using extension cords, as they can overheat and increase the risk of fire.

8. Keep Children and Pets Away

• Keep space heaters out of reach of children and pets to prevent burns or accidents from touching hot surfaces.

9. Check the Heating Area

• Make sure the area around the heater is clear of dust, dirt, and pet hair, as these can catch fire when heated.

10. Choose a Heater with Safety Features

• Look for space heaters with automatic shut-off features that turn the unit off if it tips over or overheats.

By following these space heater safety tips, you can enjoy the warmth and comfort of your space heater without compromising safety. Stay warm and safe this winter!

Storm Preparedness: Your Guide to Staying Safe Before, During, and After the Storm

9/23/2024 (Permalink)

Storm damage can leave your home in ruins, but SERVPRO® is here to help with expert storm cleanup and restoration services.

When it comes to storm preparedness, it’s all about planning ahead. Storms can strike quickly, leaving behind a trail of damage if you’re not ready. While you can’t control the weather, you can control how prepared you are. So, let’s dive into some practical steps to help keep you, your family, and your home safe when storms roll through.

Before the Storm: Preparation is Key

Start by staying informed. Keep an eye on weather updates from reliable sources and make sure your emergency kit is stocked with essentials like water, non-perishable food, flashlights, and first aid supplies. If you have time, secure outdoor furniture and any loose items that could become projectiles in high winds. Also, double-check that your home’s gutters and drainage systems are clear to prevent flooding.

During the Storm: Safety First

When the storm hits, stay indoors and avoid windows and doors. If you live in an area prone to flooding, move to higher ground and avoid walking or driving through floodwaters—it only takes six inches of fast-moving water to knock you down. Keep a battery-powered radio handy for real-time updates, and if the power goes out, don’t try to use generators indoors due to the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.

After the Storm: The Road to Recovery

Once the storm has passed, the real work begins. Safety should be your first priority—avoid any downed power lines, and don’t enter any damaged buildings until they’ve been inspected by professionals. Flooding is a common issue after storms, and standing water can cause significant damage if left untreated. This is where calling in the pros can make all the difference. SERVPRO® has the expertise and equipment to assess storm damage, begin the drying process, and restore your property to its pre-storm condition. By acting quickly, you can minimize long-term damage and get back to normal faster.

Storms are unpredictable, but your response doesn’t have to be. With a little planning and the right help, you can weather the storm and come out stronger on the other side. Stay safe, and when in doubt, call SERVPRO®.

Grease Fire and The Holidays

12/18/2023 (Permalink)

A fire damaged kitchen

These are important safety tips for anyone cooking with hot oil, especially during the holiday season when deep frying is common. Here's a summary of those tips for a safe and enjoyable cooking experience:

When Cooking with Hot Oil:

1. Stay in the Kitchen: Never leave the stove or deep fryer unattended while it's in use. Most grease fires occur when people step away from the kitchen.

2. Heat the Oil Gradually: Slowly heat the oil to the desired temperature to avoid overheating, which can lead to fires.

3. Monitor the Temperature: If you suspect the oil is getting too hot, turn off the burner to prevent it from igniting.

4. Careful Placement: Gently place food into the hot grease to prevent splattering and burns.

5. Fire Safety: If a grease fire starts, immediately use a fire-smothering method. Options include using a pan lid, cookie sheet, cat litter, a fire extinguisher, flour, or a wet cloth to extinguish the flames.

Avoid These Actions:

1. Don't Carry the Pan Outside: Moving a burning pan outside can be dangerous and may cause severe injuries. It's best to handle the fire right where it started.

2. Avoid Panicking: Panicking can lead to poor decisions, like splashing the grease or knocking over the pan. Stay calm and act quickly but with caution.

3. Don't Use Water or Dry Cloths: Water should never be used to extinguish a grease fire, as it can cause the fire to spread. Dry cloths are also not effective. Use the recommended fire-smothering methods mentioned earlier.

Special Consideration for Turkey Fryers:

When using turkey fryers, it's essential to follow specific safety precautions:

1. Outdoor Use: Always use turkey fryers outdoors, away from any structures or flammable materials. This reduces the risk of a fire spreading to your home.

2. Maintain Safe Distances: Ensure the fryer is placed on a stable, level surface and at a safe distance from any walls or structures.

3. Thaw the Turkey: Make sure the turkey is fully thawed and dried before lowering it into the hot oil. Ice or water on the bird can cause violent reactions when submerged in hot oil.

4. Use Appropriate Safety Gear: Wear appropriate safety gear, like oven mitts and safety goggles, when operating a turkey fryer.

By following these guidelines, you can reduce the risk of accidents and enjoy a safe and delicious holiday cooking experience. Remember to prioritize safety and be prepared for emergencies by keeping a fire extinguisher on hand. If a fire does occur, Call 911, and then call SERVPRO®, we are hear to help.  

Restoring and Repairing your home cost effectively

12/18/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is here to help with all your Restoration and repair needs after a flood

Restoring and repairing a home after flood damage requires a comprehensive approach to ensure efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Understanding the complete flood restoration process is crucial in engaging the right professionals for this daunting task. It encompasses various stages of repair and cleaning, all of which our team of qualified experts is equipped to handle. Recognizing the significance of professional assistance in returning homes and businesses to their preloss condition is paramount.

In addressing flood damage, prompt action is imperative, starting with containment and emergency services. These initial steps are crucial before mitigation or scoping of the job. Effective planning precedes the restoration process, but certain immediate actions cannot be delayed and need inclusion in the overall restoration plan. Our team employs efficient strategies, commencing with communication through our SERVPRO emergency line.

The gathering of information about the disaster is pivotal. Our professionals rely on data shared through our emergency line to prepare adequately. Thorough details enable us to mobilize the right personnel, equipment, and products from our warehouse. There are three primary ways we gather essential data for formulating a restoration plan:

1. Emergency Phone Call: Sharing comprehensive information with our emergency line operators prepares our technicians for the situation awaiting them.
2. Job Scoping: Our experienced project managers assess the flood-damaged property, determining necessary actions for restoration and documenting losses or additional measures needed.
3. Customer Conversations: Leveraging the customer's insights helps prioritize actions during the restoration process.

Creating staging areas is an efficient approach our SERVPRO technicians utilize. These areas, set up in unaffected sections of the home close to the damaged areas, facilitate easy access to equipment and protective gear. This practice minimizes trips in and out of the house, ensuring efficiency, convenience, preventing cross-contamination, and proximity to drying/work zones.

Efficient strategies for water extraction are vital due to the potential damage caused by standing water. Removal of standing water is crucial to focus on drying, cleaning, and other recovery actions. Various methods are employed:

1. Trash Pumps: These gas-powered pumps effectively remove flood water, including smaller solids and debris.
2. Wet Vacuums: Versatile extractors with different attachments suitable for removing water below two inches in depth.
3. Subcontractors: In cases of severe contamination, subcontractors may be engaged for handling blackwater incidents.

Numerous initial tasks must be addressed promptly after a flood, bridging the gap between potential contamination and removing bulk materials. Our dedicated team of water restoration technicians and cleaning specialists is committed to restoring the property to its original state seamlessly, ensuring it's "Like it never even happened."

HVAC cleaning this holiday season

12/18/2023 (Permalink)

Get your HVAC cleaned just in time for the holidays!

As the holiday season approaches and families prepare to gather indoors, ensuring a clean and healthy environment becomes paramount. One often overlooked aspect of maintaining indoor air quality is the regular cleaning of HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems. At SERVPRO®, we recognize the significance of HVAC cleaning in preserving a safe and comfortable living space, especially during festive seasons. Let's delve into why HVAC cleaning is crucial and how our professional services can make a difference.

1. Health and Indoor Air Quality Improvement: HVAC systems circulate air throughout your home, influencing the quality of the air you breathe. Over time, dust, debris, pollen, and even mold can accumulate within these systems, contaminating the air supply. Regular cleaning by SERVPRO helps remove these pollutants, reducing respiratory issues, allergies, and potential health risks for your family.

2. Enhanced Energy Efficiency: A clean HVAC system operates more efficiently. Accumulated debris forces the system to work harder to maintain desired temperatures, leading to increased energy consumption and higher utility bills. SERVPRO's professional cleaning ensures that your HVAC system runs optimally, potentially lowering energy costs and increasing its lifespan.

3. Prevention of Mold and Moisture Build-Up: HVAC systems can become breeding grounds for mold and bacteria when moisture is present. Moisture buildup can occur due to various reasons like condensation or leaks. SERVPRO's thorough cleaning helps eliminate these potential havens for mold, preventing its growth and safeguarding your home against related health hazards.

4. Prolonging Equipment Life: Neglected HVAC systems are prone to wear and tear, leading to frequent breakdowns and expensive repairs. Regular maintenance and cleaning provided by SERVPRO can extend the life expectancy of your HVAC system, saving you from costly replacements down the line.

5. Professional Expertise and Comprehensive Service: SERVPRO technicians are trained and equipped to handle HVAC cleaning with precision and efficiency. Our comprehensive services cover ductwork, filters, coils, and other components, ensuring a thorough and meticulous cleaning process that leaves your system operating at its best.

 As the holiday season beckons, prioritizing a healthy indoor environment is crucial for the well-being of your family and guests. HVAC cleaning stands as an essential step in achieving this goal, and SERVPRO is dedicated to helping you maintain a clean, safe, and comfortable home. Trust our expertise and commitment to quality service to keep your HVAC system running efficiently, promoting healthier indoor air quality for a joyful and worry-free holiday season.

Contact SERVPRO today to schedule your HVAC cleaning and ensure a refreshing indoor environment for your celebrations!

Revitalize Your Workspace with Professional Carpet Cleaning Services by SERVPRO

11/2/2023 (Permalink)

Carpet Cleaning

In the fast-paced world of commercial business, maintaining a clean and inviting workspace is crucial. Among the many facets of office maintenance, carpet cleanliness often takes center stage. A clean carpet not only enhances the aesthetics of your office but also contributes to a healthier and more productive work environment. That's where SERVPRO, a trusted name in the restoration and cleaning industry, can make a significant difference.

Why Carpet Cleaning Matters

Carpeting is a common choice for commercial spaces due to its durability and sound-absorbing properties. However, it's also a magnet for dirt, dust, allergens, and stains. Over time, neglected carpets can accumulate these contaminants, resulting in reduced air quality, unpleasant odors, and a negative first impression for clients and employees. This is where professional carpet cleaning becomes essential.

SERVPRO: Your Trusted Partner

SERVPRO, with its decades of experience in cleaning and restoration, offers comprehensive commercial carpet cleaning services that can transform your workspace. Here's why SERVPRO stands out:

1. Cutting-Edge Equipment and Techniques: SERVPRO uses state-of-the-art equipment and industry-best practices for carpet cleaning. Their highly trained technicians are well-versed in the latest techniques to provide the most effective solutions.

2. Customized Cleaning Plans: Every commercial space is unique. SERVPRO tailors their services to meet your specific needs. Whether you have high-traffic areas, stubborn stains, or just need regular maintenance, they can create a plan that suits your business.

3. Healtheir Work Environment: Clean carpets mean healthier air quality. SERVPRO's deep cleaning removes allergens and pollutants, contributing to a healthier workspace and potentially reducing employee sick days.

4. Enhanced Aesthetics: Clean carpets create a professional and welcoming atmosphere for your clients and employees. A tidy workplace can boost employee morale and leave a lasting positive impression on visitors.

5. Prolonged Carpet Lifespan: Regular professional cleaning not only keeps your carpets looking great but also extends their lifespan. This can save your business money in the long run.

6. Emergency Services: In the event of unexpected accidents, such as water damage or flooding, SERVPRO offers emergency carpet cleaning and restoration services to minimize downtime and protect your assets.

The SERVPRO Process

When you choose SERVPRO for your commercial carpet cleaning needs, you can expect a meticulous and thorough process:

1. Inspection: Technicians begin by inspecting your carpets to assess their condition, identify stains, and determine the best cleaning method.

2. Pre-Treatment: They pre-treat stains and high-traffic areas to ensure effective removal of dirt and grime.

3. Cleaning: Using their advanced equipment, SERVPRO technicians perform a deep cleaning, removing embedded dirt, allergens, and stains.

4. Drying: After cleaning, they ensure your carpets are properly dried, preventing mold and mildew growth.

5. Post-Cleaning Inspection: A final inspection guarantees that your carpets meet SERVPRO's high standards for cleanliness and appearance.

Experience the SERVPRO Difference

In the world of commercial carpet cleaning, SERVPRO is a name synonymous with excellence. Their commitment to quality, attention to detail, and industry-leading techniques can help you maintain a clean, inviting, and healthy workspace. With SERVPRO by your side, you can confidently focus on what matters most – your business success – while they take care of the cleanliness and aesthetics of your office.

Don't let dirty carpets hold back your business's potential. Contact SERVPRO today and discover how their professional carpet cleaning services can transform your commercial space.

Michigan 2023: fast flooding requires fast action.

9/25/2023 (Permalink)

the recent flash flooding that occurred in Michigan left a lot of local resident in peril. In news reports they say some businesses were left as "Islands," and homes were virtually underwater.  With all of the local company's overloaded with calls, we send our team of water mitigation specialists to help. After 3 weeks of working day and night our team helped many people get their homes cleaned up and ready for reconstruction. Some of the work done, included sewage backups in their basements, main floor flooding, or water coming in from the outside. 

After leaving their families, driving across the country (South Carolina to Michigan) and then immediately getting to work to exact and dry, Our team has returned safely home. 

Pets Starting Fires During the Holidays in Oconee County

12/15/2022 (Permalink)

We respond to fire damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Oconee and South Anderson Counties.

The winter season is a busy time for all, our pets included! According to the American Red Cross, more home fires occur during December and January each year on Saturdays and Sundays. Our pets are curious creatures responsible for starting approximately 750 fires each year in the United States. Here are some fire safety tips for pets from the National Fire Protection Association:

• Some pets are chewers. Watch pets to make sure they don’t chew through electrical cords. Have any problems checked by a professional.
• Keep pets away from stoves and countertops
• Keep pets away from candles, lamps, and space heaters
• Always use a metal or heat-tempered glass screen on a fireplace and keep it in place
• Keep pets away from a chimney’s outside vents.
• Have a “pet-free zone” of at least three feet away from the fireplace. Glass doors and screens can stay dangerously hot for several hours after the fire goes out.

Call Us Today!

When you have a fire damage emergency in your Oconee County home or business, you can rely on our team at SERVPRO of Oconee/South Anderson Counties to restore the damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 864.916.4160.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.