Emergency Ready Program (ERP)

5/27/2022 (Permalink)

Is your business ready for a disaster?

What is an ERP and how can it benefit your business in the event of an emergency?

ERP, which stands for "Emergency Ready Profile" is a service that SERVPRO provides and is 100% free! What's the catch you ask? That's the best part, there is no catch! We take your emergency needs very seriously in the event of a disaster, and with that comes a great sense of responsibility to get your business back up and running as soon as possible! The latest research shows that up to 50% of businesses close down following a disaster. The majority of businesses that survive have a readiness or preparedness plan in place. It's like having an insurance policy for your peace of mind. When your business is ready for whatever disaster may strike, no matter how your business was affected, your clients don't have to be.

Having a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile in place can greatly minimize interruptions to your business. When you know what to do in advance, the result is mitigation in a timely fashion. It can assist in limiting fire and water damage.

Having an Emergency Ready Profile in place is a simple process

We will come to you and do a no cost evaluation of your facility/business
This is a great value and is completely free to you!
A detailed document that contains crucial information required in case of an emergency
It will not take much time at all and should not disrupt your normal operations, but will save you valuable time if ever needed.
Instructions that will help you get back in to your facility as soon as possible
When you have an immediate plan of action it can greatly minimize the length at which your business is inactive
You have the premiere Fire & Water - Cleanup & Restoration company ready to spring into action
Confidence of knowing that an industry leader is close by and ready to serve you.
Establishes a chain of command authorizing work to begin
Crucial in saving time so we can begin work of mitigating the damage which in the end saves you money
Important details of your facility, where are all the shut-offs, areas of priority, and main contact information.
Having this information in place is crucial! Knowing where all the shut off valves are, areas of concern, and who to contact make all the difference in the world when disaster strikes!

Ready to put your "Emergency Ready Profile" In place? Give us a call!

(616) 647-4300

Fire extinguisher tips in the work place

4/19/2022 (Permalink)

A fire extinguisher in the workplace!

According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, the most common emergency small businesses must plan for is a fire. Fire extinguishers can be invaluable tools to help fight smaller fires in the workplace. Here are some tips on how and when to properly use a fire extinguisher!

Placement
There are certain legal requirements for fire extinguishers that every business has to follow. These rules can vary from state to state and city to city, so it's important to look up your local ordinances to ensure you're operating within fire code. There are general OSHA guidelines that require a fire extinguisher within 75 feet of locations where employees work, and one in stairwells.

Usage
When using a fire extinguisher it's important to remember the simple training technique, the PASS method.

P - Pull the pin on the extinguisher
A - Aim the hose nozzle low toward the base of the fire
S - Squeeze the handle to release the extinguishing agent
S - Sweep the nozzle from side to side at the base of the flames until extinguished.

Fire extinguishers are meant to handle only small fires. If a fire becomes too large, or the environment becomes too dangerous, employees should know when and how to evacuate the area safely; and if appropriate, sound the fire alarm or call the fire department immediately.

Dealing with fire damage in your business? Give us a call! (616) 647-4300

Dealing with a biohazard in your commercial building

4/8/2022 (Permalink)

Portions of an office dealing with a biohazard

Owning a business means dealing with situation you may not have considered before. For instance, handling a biohazard in your building. A biohazard is a biological substance that's dangerous to people or the environment, such as blood or fecal matter. Because accidents are bound to happen, you may find yourself wondering what to do in case of a biohazard in your commercial building.

Anytime a business is dealing with a biohazard, there are procedures to follow set in place by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration standards. These guidelines were made to keep employees safe. According to Spaulding.co, the most common type of biohazard that happens in the work place is spilled blood. If a small amount of blood is spilled on a hard surface, it is possible to take care of the cleanup without calling a professional. However, to be compliant with OSHA standards, any employee who regularly handles the cleanup must have completed Bloodborne Pathogen Standards training. The employee must also be provided with personal protective equipment, and they must be using an approved disinfectant product. Lastly, any biohazard waste needs to be clearly marked and properly disposed of.

If you are still unsure of when to call for help, consider the dinner plate theory. If the size of the blood shed is grater than the size of a dinner place, it's best to call a professional. Also, if the blood/biohazardous chemical spills on carpet, calling a professional right away is the safest option.

When it comes to biohazards, anybody who comes into contact with the affected area is at risk for blood born pathogen exposure. If there is any doubt in your ability to take care of the biohazard yourself, call SERVPRO. Our teams are expertly trained, use state of the art equipment, and are faster to any disaster.

Dealing with a biohazard in your business? Give us a call! (616) 647-4300

How to prevent ice dams on your commercial properties

12/13/2021 (Permalink)

Ice build up on a house roof

Every year in west Michigan we deal with an excessive amount of snow and cold temperatures that take a toll on your property. When the snow falls the last thing you think about ice dams that form on your commercial properties and the damage that they can cause. With some steps of prevention and things to look for you can save a lot of headache and money this winter season.

Things to look for when you suspect you have an ice dam problem.

• You see icicles forming behind the gutter

• Ice or water starts to form on the siding or around windows

• Ice begins to build on top of the gutters or lower edge of roof

• You see icicles forming on the edge of your roof this can be with or without gutters

• Ice begins coming through the soffit vents or through the soffit itself.

Preventing Ice Dams

• You can scrape snow from the roof whenever it falls, using a snow rake or a broom or plastic shovel. Keeping the excess snow from building up on the edge of the roof

• Heated cables are another prevention tip for ice dams. Attached with clips along the roof's edge in a zigzag pattern, heated cabled combat ice dams that lift shingles and cause leaks.

These simple tips and things to look for will make it easier to know what the next steps are when dealing with water leaks in your home. Prevention is the key focus, but sometimes the damage is done to the property and cleaning up the water that made its way in from the roof is the top priority, and that's where SERVPRO of Big Rapids/Fremont comes in and can make it "Like it never even happened."

Dealing with water damage from an ice dam? Give us a call! (616) 647-4300

Tips on preventing commercial mold damage

12/9/2021 (Permalink)

A mitigation specialist tackling mold growth on a wall

Vigilance is key when preventing mold growth. When mold strike in your commercial property, you need to act fast to limit the amount of damage done. A professional mold remediation company, like SERVPRO of Big Rapids/Fremont, can address mold issues in homes and businesses as well as help property owners. If mold growth occurs, be sure to give us a call as soon as possible to minimize any damage and stop the mold from spreading.

Increase the heat
One way to prevent mold from growing in your commercial property is to increase the heat. When the walls on a property are too cold, moisture particles in the air condensate, creating a damp film that leads to mold formation. In the summer keep the thermostat on a low heat setting, and insulate the walls on the property.

Reduce Steam
Steam is a common cause of commercial mold damage. To reduce steam, business owners should:

? Not allow standing water to sit in the dink or a drinking glass.
? Install and use an extractor fan in the bathroom to clear the steam after a hot shower or batch.
? Put wet clothes outside on a clothesline to dry instead of indoors.
? Run the ventilation fan on the range hood to suck up steam from liquids boiling on top of the stove.

Maximize Air Flow
An easy way to keep commercial damage from mold at bay is to open the windows and let cold air circulate inside the property. Open windows keep surfaces dry and push mold spores outdoors. To further increase airflow and reduce hidden pockets of air, pull furniture away from walls. If mold is spotted behind furniture or curtains, we can help eliminate it.

Other Mold Prevention Tips
There are other ways to prevent commercial damage from mold. Here are some additional tips we recommend to business owners and home owners:
? Fix any leaks from dripping pipes and water overflows
? Keep the roof in good repair especially if the roof is flat
? Throw away mold damaged items such as books and rotting food.

Dealing with Mold in your property? Give us a call! (616) 647-4300

Steps to take after an apartment fire

11/29/2021 (Permalink)

A fire rages in an apartment building

When a fire breaks out on a rental property it can be hard to figure out who has to pay for the damages. Whether you rent out commercial or living space, the liability after a fire is pretty straightforward. Tenants will be responsible for damages done to their personal belongings, such as furniture and appliances. As the property owner you will be responsible for most of the damages done to the building itself. Following a fire you may be responsible for the following tasks after an apartment fire:

? Communicating with Fire Fighters. These first responders can help you assess the safety of your building. You and your tenants will likely want to enter the apartments to get an idea of the damage done. You won't be able to enter the building until it is deemed safe.

? Starting the Claims Process. You have to get in touch with your insurance provider to report the apartment fire. Your agent may give you a list of fire restoration professionals that they prefer you use. You may also want to make sure your renter calls his or her insurance provider to start the claims process for personal belongings.

? Documenting Fire Damage. You need to take pictures of the structure, make lists of damaged appliances and record other furnishings you owned that were damaged.

? Securing the Property. You need to secure the property for two reasons. First, you need to protect the safety of those who may want to enter the building, such as your renters. Putting up warning signs may be enough to keep people out until it is safe to enter. Second, you need to keep vandals and thieves out. You may need to board up windows and put up a security fence.

After an apartment fire, you need to take the proper steps to ensure that everyone, including yourself, is safe and fully aware of the damage liabilities. While you aren't responsible for all of the damages, you do have a lot of financial responsibility.

Dealing with fire damage in your rental property? Give us a call! (616) 647-4300

What is an ERP?

8/10/2021 (Permalink)

Is your business ready for a disaster?

What is an ERP and how can it benefit your business in the event of an emergency?

ERP, which stands for “Emergency Ready Profile” is a service that SERVPRO provides and is 100% free! What’s the catch you ask? That is the best part, there is no catch. We take your emergency needs very seriously in the event of a disaster, and with that comes a great sense of responsibility to get your business back up and running ASAP! The latest research shows that up to 50% of businesses close down following a disaster. The majority of businesses that do survive have a readiness or preparedness plan in place. It’s like having an insurance policy for your peace of mind. And when your business is ready for whatever disaster may strike, no matter how your business was affected, your clients don’t have to be.

Having a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile in place can greatly minimize interruptions to your business. When you know what to do in advance, the result is mitigation in a timely fashion. It can assist in limiting fire and water damage.

Having an Emergency Ready Profile in place is a simple process

• We will come to you and do a no cost evaluation of your facility/business

This is a great value and is completely free to you!

• A detailed document that contains crucial information required in case of an emergency

It will not take much time at all and should not disrupt your normal operations, but will save you valuable time if ever needed

• Instructions that will help you get back in to your facility as soon as possible

When you have an immediate plan of action it can greatly minimize the length at which your business is inactive

• You have the premiere Fire & Water - Cleanup & Restoration company ready to spring into action

Confidence of knowing that an industry leader is close by and ready to serve you

• Establishes chain of command authorizing work to begin

Crucial in saving time so we can begin the work of mitigating the damage which in the end saves you money

• Important details of your facility, where are all the shut-offs?, areas of priority and main contact information

Having this information in place is crucial! Knowing where all the shut-off valves are, areas of concern and who to contact make all the difference in the world when disaster strikes.

Ready to put your “Emergency Ready Profile” in place? Give us a call!

(231) 796-2342

SERVPRO goes to SCHOOL!

4/30/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Big Rapids/Fremont is here for all your commercial emergency needs!

SERVPRO of Big Rapids/ Fremont, Michigan, can remediate many different types of damage your commercial building may face, including vandalism. For example, this local elementary school was vandalized after perpetrators broke in and discharged fire extinguishers indoors. The white residue from the extinguishers covered the floors, books, desks, and teaching materials, leaving the school in a disastrous state. Due to the significant amount of damage, the school had to shut down for a few days, which allowed our crews to start cleaning and restoring the school to its pre-damaged condition! We took each individual library book back to our shop to get thoroughly and meticulously cleaned, while other members of our team started working on the floors and structure of the school. We are grateful for the opportunity we had to serve our local community by restoring the damage done to this school. While we hope it never happens to your commercial business, we are prepared to help if it does. Our phones are on 24/7, and we have emergency crews on stand by! You can count on SERVPRO of Big Rapids/ Fremont to be there when you need us most.

SERVPRO of Big Rapids / Fremont is ready for all your commercial needs!

4/13/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has been in the game since 1967, making us a trusted national leader in professional restoration services!

SERVPRO has been around since 1967 when it started out as a painting business. Fast forward 2 years later, SERVPRO founders Ted and Doris Issacson started franchising SERVPRO as a professional cleaning and restoration company! Since then, SERVPRO has continued its growth, and there are now 1,900 + franchises! Needless to say, we’ve been in the game a long time. SERVPRO of Big Rapids/ Fremont is one of the trusted national leaders in fire, water, and mold remediation, as well as specialty cleanup and restoration services! ( Biohazards, Covid-19 Disinfecting, Vandalism cleanup, and odor removal! ) You can trust our professional team to take care of your commercial businesses, no matter how big or small! We have emergency crews on standby 24/7 ready to respond to your emergency commercial damage needs. Whether your commercial property has faced water, fire, mold, or any other type of specialty damage, you can count on the experts at SERVPRO of Big Rapids/Fremont! Give us a call today! (231) 796-2342

Does your commercial building have a mold problem?

12/16/2020 (Permalink)

Mold can spread through a commercial business in as little as 48 hours!

Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from your commercial business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:

Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.

Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.

Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.

Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.

Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.

Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

 If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today--(231)796-2342

We are the Cleaning experts!

12/13/2020 (Permalink)

Give your customers peace of mind with a SERVPRO certified proactive cleaning for your commercial business!

SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need

During this unprecedented time caused by the global pandemic of coronavirus, this is a reminder to our customers that we are specialists in cleaning services, and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards.

Specialized Training

We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform on a daily basis.

The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets and tables. Other spaces mentioned in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces include:

• Kitchen/Food Areas
• Bathrooms
• Schools/Classrooms
• Offices
• Retail Spaces
• Water Fountains
• Shelving/Racks
• Sales Counters
• Carpets and Rugs
• Stair Handrails
• Elevator Cars
• Playground Equipment
• Fitness Equipment

Specialized Products

The CDC recommends usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar pathogens to the coronavirus. Multiple products in the SERVPRO product line carry the EPA-approved emerging pathogens claims. While there is currently no product tested against this particular strain of the coronavirus, we are following all guidelines as provided by the CDC and local authorities.

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning!

If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO OF BIG RAPIDS/FREMONT (231)796-2342

 Sources:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/guidance-prevent-spread.html?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fguidance-prevent-spread.html

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/specific-groups/guidance-business-response.html

Restoring your Big Rapids/ Fremont Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event

12/1/2020 (Permalink)

Commercial Water Damage Events Present Unique Challenges...Thankfully, we're the experts!

Any flooding or water damage that happens to your Big Rapids/Fremont commercial property is 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.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

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.

About SERVPRO of Big Rapids / Fremont

SERVPRO of Big Rapids/ Fremont 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.

Restoring a Commercial Building

11/7/2020 (Permalink)

Check out this before and after photo of the soot stained ceiling!

This West Michigan commercial business suffered a large fire loss that left the building covered in black soot. Though nobody was hurt, an extensive amount of damage was done to the building and the contents inside. Thankfully, this business owner gave us a call to take care of the damage! Our crews were efficient, meticulous, and professional as they worked hard to restore the wreckage. It took a large crew, late hours, and lots of grunt work, but it was worth it in the end as the building was restored! Check out the photo of the before and after of the ceiling!

About SERVPRO of Big Rapids/Fremont

SERVPRO of Big Rapids/Fremont 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.

Day 1 of National Preparedness Month

9/1/2020 (Permalink)

Prepare your commercial business for storms!

Happy September! Did you know that September is National Preparedness Month?! While Michigan storms may not be quite as bad as those impacted by hurricanes, the storms we do get can still cause severe damage! The last thing anybody wants to deal with is property damage, especially when you’re a business owner. Keep reading to find out how to prepare your commercial business for future storms! 

One of the most important ways to be prepared for a storm is to have a response plan set in place. According to ready.gov, the following points are extremely important to include in your response plan.

• Two-way communication system for reaching employees/customers and emergency services
• Map of multiple evacuation routes
• A designated location for employees to meet inside your facility or at a nearby shelter
• Checklists of tasks for people to complete before, during and after a storm

After a plan is created,  do a few trial runs to make sure it works, and fix any tweaks if needed! 

Another important part of preparing your commercial building for a storm is to ensure the structure and the backup equipment are properly maintained. Getting the roof inspected once a year, and making sure the weatherstripping calk is in place may sound simple, but it makes a huge difference in keeping your employees and business safe during a storm. It is also highly important to make sure your equipment is in working condition. According to bobbitt.com,  “Having the right equipment in place to keep your facility running during a storm is often  overlooked. Maintenance and placement of this equipment must be well thought out. In your plan, specify who, when, where and how emergency equipment will be maintained” 

Lastly, in order to prepare your commercial building for a storm, you need to protect the business’s assets and valuables. Another insightful quote from bobbitt.com states this: “Machinery, product inventory, supplies and technology systems are a few of your business assets that may be at risk. Ask yourself these questions to help prevent a loss of resources:

            -Where are your valuable business assets located in the building?

-Are these resources physically protected? How are they protected?

-What resources are crucial for business operation?

-Are these assets owned and insured?

-What assets are leased and what is the liability if they are damaged?

We know this list may seem daunting, but it’s better to be over prepared than not prepared at all! We care about you and your business, and will be here for all your emergency needs! We’re just a phone call away!

 231-796-2342

Soda Blasting!

8/10/2020 (Permalink)

Don't let graffiti ruin the appearance of your home or office. Call us today for a free quote! (231)796-2342

Finding graffiti on your Big Rapids area commercial building isn’t an ideal situation. Maintaining the outside appearance of your business is important for attracting customers! Fortunately, SERVPRO of Big Rapids/Fremont has you covered! One of our favorite techniques for graffiti removal is soda blasting. According to raptorblastor.com, “Soda blasting is a form of abrasive blasting that uses sodium bicarbonate as an abrasive media. The soda is propelled using compressed air or water to blast a surface.”  To put it in simpler terms, sodium bicarbonate, more commonly known as baking soda, is put into an air compressor and is used to blast away unwanted graffiti.  Not only can soda blasting remove graffiti, it can also be used to get rid of soot damage following a fire. Check out our latest video showing the soda blasting technique on a Big Rapids commercial building! 

Do you have a restoration plan for your Pentwater business?

5/4/2020 (Permalink)

Make SERVPRO your #1 call in case of a disaster! We are here to help restore your Pentwater business, and make it "Like it never even happened."

It’s important to have a restoration plan in place for your Pentwater, Michigan business, in case of an unforeseen disaster or damage. FEMA’s most recent report states that at least 40% of businesses fail to reopen following a disaster event. Having a SERVPRO® restoration services respond right away, no matter the hour, can make a big difference in how quickly your Pentwater business is able to recover!

Cleaning and restoring commercial properties require a unique blend of training, experience, and equipment. That being said, SERVPRO Big Rapids/Fremont has the resources and expertise to give you excellent results while minimizing the disruption to your clients. We can help make it “Like it never even happened.”

A few businesses that we handle are as follows:

• 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

Here at SERVPRO of Big Rapids/Fremont, we believe in treating every client like family. We will take the time to understand your needs, so that you can rest easy knowing we will get the job done right. Call us today to set up a free estimate for your Pentwater commercial property! 231-796-2342

Prepare to Reopen your commercial business

4/17/2020 (Permalink)

Let us help you get ready to open your Canadian Lakes Commercial building back up!

Have you seen some of our fleet out in your Canadian Lakes neighborhood lately? We're out doing some proactive cleaning for your local businesses!

Before you can finally flip your sign to "open" let us come in and get your restaurant, office or retail store cleaned and sanitized. You'll be ready for guests and staff to come back in!

We're available 24/7, so you can go about your day knowing we can be there to sanitize and disinfect your commercial building without interrupting during business hours!

 Give us a call at (231-796-2342) for more information on how we can help you be prepared to re-open after this is behind us! 

Cleaning your Commercial Building

12/17/2019 (Permalink)

If you need help cleaning and restoring your commercial building, call SERVPRO!

An important part of owning a commercial building is keeping it clean. If a building is not maintained, the risk of mold, external damage, internal damage, and health risks dramatically increase. When you take care of your commercial property, you will attract and keep customers, make the building look nicer, and keep occupants inside happier and healthier. Another reason to stay on top of your commercial property is the improved productivity a clean environment brings. When there is less clutter around to distract employees, they will in turn work faster and harder. Consider this list from woodard247.com of essential cleaning supplies to keep in your building:

-vacuum cleaner

-Broom and dustpan

-Sponge Mop

-Plastic Buckets

-Rubber Gloves

-Dust Towels

-Cleaning towels

-Glass cleaner

-wood polish

-bleach

-Floor Cleaner

-Soft Scrub

-Stainless steel polish / powder

-mold and mildew cleaner

-disinfectant wipes

-air freshener

Using these supplies regularly will keep your commercial space tidy. However, if the mess gets out of hand, SERVPRO can help. If your commercial property is in need of any type of restoration, call the professionals at SERVPRO. Our crews are expertly trained in mold, fire, water, and general cleaning restoration. With our phone lines open 24/7, we are ready to serve you make the damage “Like it never even happened”.

Seasonal Affective disorder and its impact at work!

12/16/2019 (Permalink)

Seasonal Affective Disorder can have an impact in the work place! Keep reading for ideas on how to alleviate symptoms!

The winter months are commonly called “The most wonderful time of the year.” Holiday parties and the excitement of the first snow fall leave people buzzing anticipation for the festivities to come. While good tidings of comfort and joy may be the theme this season, many people are stuck feeling the exact opposite. In fact, over 10 million people suffer from seasonal affective disorder during the cold months, according to themuse.com. Seasonal affective disorder, also known as SAD, causes hormones to change during the winter, reducing the brain’s serotonin levels due to lack of sunshine. Serotonin is commonly nicknamed “The happy chemical”, because it regulates mood. It’s important to be aware of SAD and how it affects people, so themuse.com complied a list of symptoms to watch out for. Sadness, fatigue, insomnia, and weight gain are common symptoms of SAD. Other symptoms include inability to concentrate, irritability, increased desire to be alone, and a greater need for sleep. Because of these symptoms, SAD can have a negative impact in the work place. Mood changes and tiredness can cause coworkers to become argumentative, and the inability to focus can make it hard for employees to meet deadlines and get work done in a timely manner.

                Although there is no set cure for SAD, there are many ways to reduce its impact in the work place. Encouraging open and honest communication between coworkers and supervisors is a great place to start. If an employee feels they are able to talk to a supervisor about their struggles, it eases feelings of stress and irritability. It also helps the supervisor understand what is going on with their employees. If a supervisor notices work not being completed as quickly, or a general sadness with their employee, open communication will allow employees and supervisors to come together to find a reasonable solution. Another way to reduce the impact of SAD at work is to take regular breaks. Breaking up the day with a quick walk or a step outside can do wonders to combat SAD. Another effective tool is to change your diet. Around the holidays, people tend to overload on sweets and carbs, which can negatively impact your mood. According to integrativepsychiatry.net, foods rich in omega 3 fats will help serotonin work better by reducing brain inflammation.  Last but not least, getting a light therapy lamp for your home or office can help reduce the affects of SAD. These lights mimic rays from the sun, which helps the brain produce serotonin. Therapy lights, sometimes called “happy lamps”, are not a cure all for SAD, but they are known for improving mood and increasing energy levels.

Unfortunately, SERVPRO can’t cure seasonal affective disorder. However, we can make your life easier by restoring water, fire, and mold damage done to your home or business. Our expert teams take pride in the cleaning and restoration process, and work diligently to make the damage disappear, “Like it never even happened”.

About SERVPRO of Big Rapids/ Fremont:

SERVPRO of Big Rapids/ Fremont specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after storm, fire, water, or mold damage. 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.

If you need help with cleaning up after damage, call the Professionals at SERVPRO of Big Rapids/ Fremont 24/7 (231) 796-2342

Biohazards in the work place!

12/16/2019 (Permalink)

Leave the bio-hazard clean up to the professionals at SERVPRO!

Biohazards in the work place: When to call for help

Owning a business means dealing with situations you might not have considered before. For instance, biohazards. According to vocabulary.com, a biohazard is a biological substance that's dangerous to people or the environment. Because accidents are bound to happen, you may find yourself wondering what to do in case of a biohazard at your commercial building.

Anytime a business is dealing with a biohazard, there are procedures to follow set in place by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration standards. These guidelines were made to keep employees safe. According to Spaulding.com, the most common type of biohazard that happens in the work place is spilled blood. If a small amount of blood is spilled on a hard surface, it is possible to take care of the cleanup without calling a professional.  However, to be compliant with OSHA standards, any employee who handles the cleanup must have completed Bloodborne Pathogen Standards training. The employee must also be provided with personal protective equipment, and they must be using an approved disinfectant product. Lastly, any biohazard waste needs to be clearly marked and properly disposed of.

If you are still unsure of when to call for help, consider the dinner plate theory. If the size of the blood shed is greater than the size of a dinner plate, it’s best to call a professional. Also, if the blood/biohazardous chemical spills on carpet, calling a professional right away is the safest option.

When it comes to biohazards, anybody who comes into contact with the affected area is at risk for blood born pathogen exposure. If there is any doubt in your ability to take care of the biohazard yourself, call SERVPRO. Our teams are expertly trained, use state of the art equipment, and are faster to any disaster.

About SERVPRO of Big Rapids/ Fremont:

SERVPRO of Big Rapids/ Fremont specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after storm, fire, water, or mold damage. We also do bio-hazard clean up as well as general cleaning. 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.

If you need help with cleaning up after damage, call the Professionals at SERVPRO of Big Rapids/ Fremont 24/7 (231) 796-2342

Document Restoration

11/8/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO uses the same document restoration techniques as the Library of Congress!

Crack the riddle: What does SERVPRO and the library of congress have in common?

If you guessed document restoration techniques, you are correct!

When a business suffers from water damage, one of the main concerns is the loss of important documents. Water damaged paper can quickly deteriorate if not handled properly. SERVPRO’s team members are expertly trained and use the most advanced technology to recover your documents, and it just so happens that the library of congress uses the same techniques to recover damaged books!

One method that SERVPRO frequently uses in document restoration is the vacuum freeze-drying method. This process works by sublimation, which means turning a solid directly into a vapor, skipping over the liquid stage to avoid causing more water damage. This procedure can restore even the most fragile documents, such as photos, x-ray’s and business files. Another document restoration technique we use is called gamma irradiation. This procedure is used for cleaning and disinfecting documents. It is also used for decontaminating documents or other important items. In an instance where sewage or flood water has contaminated the documents, the papers are not only falling apart, but they are also full of hazardous bacteria. In this situation, decontamination is highly important. The gamma irradiation safely kills these bacteria and ensures that it won’t spread to other areas.

            Our Goal at SERVPRO is to make this process as hassle free as possible for our customers. If your commercial business is in need of document restoration, call the experts at SERVPRO! Our friendly staff will be happy to give you more information about cleaning and restoring your paper documents!

SERVPRO of Big Rapids/ Fremont specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after vandalism, water, storm, smoke, mold, or any other damaging 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.

If you need help with cleaning up after home or property damage, call the Professionals at SERVPRO of Big Rapids/ Fremont! (231) 796-2342

Vandalism Help

9/23/2019 (Permalink)

Don't let graffiti ruin your commercial building. Call the experts at SERVPRO! We'll make it "Like it never even happened."

The last thing you want to see on your commercial building is a colorful display of graffiti. Unfortunately, graffiti can make a beautiful building look unprofessional and abandoned, which in turn could result in the loss of customers. If this happens to you, our professionals at SERVPRO can make it "Like it never even happened." In the meantime, here are a few tips to keep you educated on graffiti and how it can impact your commercial building.  

• If you notice graffiti on your commercial building, give SERVPRO a call ASAP! The longer the paint sits, the harder it is to take off.
• The outside temperature makes a difference in the graffiti removal process. The colder the weather, the more difficult it is to remove the paint as it bonds with the cold wall. Warmer weather makes it much easier to remove.
• The cleaning agent used to remove graffiti makes a huge difference. You can trust SERVPRO to use the appropriate cleaning agents to remove all signs of spray paint. Our talented experts will restore your building and make it like it never even happened.

SERVPRO of Big Rapids/ Fremont specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after vandalism, storm, smoke, mold, or any other damaging 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.

If you need help with cleaning up after Vandalism, call the Professionals at SERVPRO of Big Rapids/ Fremont! (231) 796-2342

Helpful flood prevention tips for your commercial property!

9/16/2019 (Permalink)

If a flood hits your commercial building, give the experts at SERVPRO a call! We'll make it "Like it never even happened."

Helpful flood prevention tips for your commercial property!

Running and owning a business is stressful enough, and the last thing you want to think about is flooding. Thankfully, we’ve provided some tips and tricks to help your business stay clear from flood damage! Keep reading for prevention ideas that can save you time and money!

•  Insulate exposed pipes---Michigan winters get COLD, which means there is a chance your pipes could freeze and burst! We don’t want this to happen, so insulate those pipes! The more insulation the better!
• Avoid drastic changes in temperature. Make sure the temp in your business / commercial building doesn’t get lower than 50 degrees. (even when nobody is there!) Low temps = a greater chance of frozen and bursting pipes.
• Survey gutters and drainage---Fallen leaves and other rubble that gets into your gutters can cause water damage to the interior and exterior walls of your building! Regularly check the gutters and drainage system to make sure things are working properly. Remove any build up. It’s also a good idea to get the gutters professionally cleaned. This ensures that water is properly draining away from your building.
• Keep the roof clear---Snow and ice build up on top of your building can cause the roof to weaken resulting in leaks. It can also create ice dams, which prevent water from being drained correctly. Be aware of your roof’s loading capacity, and routinely check to make sure snow and ice build up aren’t surpassing the loading capacity.
• Know where to find the shut off valve---if your pipes burst, you’ll need to move fast. Make sure you know where the main shut off valve is in case this happens! Turning off that valve temporarily stops the water flow to your building which gives you time to fix the problem or call for help.
• Close off any gaps or cracks---sealing all holes, gaps and cracks reduces the risk of cold air coming inside and freezing your pipes. Caulk, weather stripping, and other sealants can be used to make your building more energy efficient and reduce this risk.
• Keep details on valuable items--Know the prices of your important items in case of water damage. This is useful for insurance purposes and for helping you replace items after the event. If there is potential for flooding, move these items off the floor of your business.
• If these tips and tricks aren’t enough to keep your commercial building from flooding, give us a call! SERVPRO is happy to help and ready to make it like it never even happened.

  About SERVPRO of Big Rapids / Fremont:

 SERVPRO of Big Rapids/ Fremont specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a storm damage, fire, and smoke or 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.

If you need help with cleaning up after a fire damage event call the Professionals at SERVPRO of Big Rapids /Fremont 24/7 (231) 796-2342

Using Your Portable Generator Safely

12/20/2018 (Permalink)

Don't let your generator cause damages to your home

GENERATOR SAFETY

 We all have been there when the power in your home or business decides to shut off caused by bad weather or a community outage. The first thing you think about is how to take action to find a power source to get you back up and running. Many businesses and residential properties have the convenience of a backup generator located nearby. With operation of a generator do you know the first things to keep in mind to staying safe while using one?

If you have a generator on hand for power outages during severe weather, follow the safety tips below from the American Red Cross:

• Never use a generator, grill, camp stove, or other gasoline, propane, natural gas, or charcoal-burning devices inside a home, garage, basement, crawl space, or any partially enclosed area.
• To avoid electrocution, keep the generator dry and do not use in rain or wet conditions. Do not touch the generator with wet hands.
• Opening doors and windows or using fans will not prevent carbon monoxide (CO) buildup in the home. Although CO can’t be seen or smelled, it can rapidly lead to full incapacitation and death. Even if you cannot smell exhaust fumes, you may still be exposed to CO. If you start to feel sick, dizzy, or weak while using a generator, get to fresh air immediately.
• Install CO alarms in central locations on every level of your home or property and outside sleeping areas to provide early warning of accumulating carbon monoxide.

 If you have an emergency and need our help fast call us immediately!

SERVPRO of Big Rapids/Fremont provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster in Big Rapids/Fremont area we can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

• 24-Hour Emergency Service
• Faster to Any-Sized Disaster
• Highly Trained Restoration Technicians
• A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry
• Locally Owned and Operated
• Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment 

Have Questions? Call Us 24/7 – (231) 796-2342

Duct Cleaning Tips for your Business

12/20/2018 (Permalink)

Keep your Employees Safe

HVAC system cleaning in your business and the importance of the health of your employees. There are many factors that will affect the air quality in your business and the main one is your air ducts and how they need to be cleaned. 1 out of 6 people suffer from allergies do so because of the direct relationship to fungi and bacteria in the air ducts systems. When the correct steps are taken it will improve productivity in your employees and the workplace.

Top Seven Reasons to Clean Ducts:

• Mildew and Mold growing from moisture
• Smoke from cigarettes or chemicals
• Water and fire restoration
• Allergy relief and asthma
• Reduce Dust and particles from spreading
• Improve energy efficiency
• Insects and rodents

In most cases your business and your home rarely open the windows or doors to help provide air circulation resulting in some of these reasons causing poor air quality. When your HVAC system is clean it doesn’t have to work so hard to maintain the temperature desired resulting in more money in your pocket. Have your ducts and system cleaned and inspected each year to make sure your business is running smoothly. If your business needs help cleaning up after a fire or water damage SERVPRO of Big Rapids/Fremont is here to help.

Commercial Services

There's never a convenient time for fire or Water damage to strike your Big Rapids/Fremont commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. When the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business. Learn more about our commercial services: SERVPRO of Big Rapids/Fremont

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

SERVPRO of Big Rapids/Fremont provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster in Big Rapids/Fremont We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

• 24-Hour Emergency Service
• Faster to Any-Sized Disaster
• Highly Trained Restoration Technicians
• A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry
• Locally Owned and Operated
• Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment 

Have Questions? Call Us 24/7 – 231-796-2342

Colder temperatures calls for pipes to freeze

12/18/2018 (Permalink)

Pipe breaks can be scary

With winter months upon us it brings concerns and worries about your home or business getting effected when the snow hits the ground. With temperatures reaching an all-time lower number you might want to be on the lookout for frozen pipes that can burst and make a nightmare in your home or business. When your property is subjected to water pipe freezes, the situation is not as simple as calling a plumber and shutting off the water. A crack in a pipe can distributes hundreds of gallons of water a day, causing flooding, serious structural damage, potential for mold.

Things to keep in mind when looking for a frozen pipe:

• There’s no running water or any water coming from facet
• You notice frost buildup on pipes
• Temperatures outside are dropping below 32 degrees
• Weird smells coming from your pipes

Prevention tips that might help you:

• Open cabinet doors to allow heat to get to un-insulated pipes under sinks and appliances.
• Don’t let your thermostat temperature get no lower than 55 degrees.
• Add insulation to attics, basements and crawl spaces. Insulation will maintain higher temperatures in these areas.
• Consider installing specific products made to insulate water pipes like a "pipe sleeve" or installing “Heat Tape”
• Let the cold-water drip from the faucet served by exposed pipes. Running water through the pipe helps prevent pipes from freezing.
• Keep the inside temperature the same for day and night, don’t lower it when you go to sleep.

What to do when you have a pipe break:

• Find the main water shut off in your home or business and close the valve to make sure no more water enters.
• Begin to investigate where the break occurred and then call for a plumber to come out and fix it.
• Call SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids to come out and extract the water and dry the structure to prevent further damage to your property.

These are just a few helpful things to know when dealing with the cold winter months and keeping your home safe from disaster. The important thing is that Homeowners and business owners should check their insurance policies to make sure they are up to date and will cover damage that could be caused by frozen or otherwise broken pipes. The best time to check is before it becomes an issue.

If you have an emergency and need our help fast call us immediately!

SERVPRO of Big Rapids/Fremont provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster in Big Rapids/Fremont area we can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

• 24-Hour Emergency Service
• Faster to Any-Sized Disaster
• Highly Trained Restoration Technicians
• A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry
• Locally Owned and Operated
• Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment 

Have Questions? Call Us 24/7 – 231-796-2342

Restoring Your Big Rapids/Fremont Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event

11/12/2018 (Permalink)

Commercial Water Damage Events Present Unique Challenges

Flooding and water damage events at Big Rapids/Fremont 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.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

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.

About SERVPRO of Big Rapids/Fremont

SERVPRO of Big Rapids/Fremont 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.

Emergency Ready Profile (ERP)

10/4/2018 (Permalink)

Download the App Today!

As many as 50% of businesses may never recover following a disaster, according to the latest industry research. Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind. By developing a SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.

Call Us today about setting up your READY profile for your business for FREE! 231.796.2342

About SERVPRO of Big Rapids/Fremont

SERVPRO of Big Rapids/Fremont 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

For Immediate Service in Big Rapids/Fremont, Call SERVPRO!

10/1/2018 (Permalink)

We provide immediate service day or night!

SERVPRO of Big Rapids/Fremont provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster in Big Rapids We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

• 24-Hour Emergency Service
• Faster to Any-Sized Disaster
• Highly Trained Restoration Technicians
• A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry
• Locally Owned and Operated
• Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment 

Have Questions? Call Us 24/7 – 231-796-2342

Residential Services

Whether your Big Rapids home needs emergency flood damage or your upholstery cleaned, you can depend on us.  Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and can make your property look its best. Learn more about our residential services: SERVPRO of Big Rapids/Fremont

• Water Damage Restoration
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Mold Remediation
• Storm Damage Restoration
• Cleaning Services
• Building/Reconstruction Services

Commercial Services

There's never a convenient time for fire or water damage to strike your Big Rapids commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business. Learn more about our commercial services: SERVPRO of Big Rapids/Fremont

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration