Archived Why SERVPRO Blog Posts
Is Your Business Prepared for an Emergency?
3/3/2024 (Permalink)
Be prepared for a flood or fire damage in Piatt or Dewitt counties with an Emergency Ready Profile.
SERVPRO® of Piatt/Dewitt is here to help you get a plan in place for free!
Advantages of the SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile
- A no-cost assessment of your facility.
- A concise profile document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency.
- A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster.
- Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin.
- Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas, and priority contact information.
Schedule and ERP
SERVPRO of Piatt/Dewitt can put together an Emergency Ready Profile for your business for free. There are no contracts or obligations, we just want to help your business. Preparation is key for making it through any size disaster. Schedule an appointment today with SERVPRO of Piatt/Dewitt by calling (217) 935-2992.
Why SERVPRO of Piatt Dewitt Counties
6/13/2022 (Permalink)
Why Choose SERVPRO of Piatt/DeWitt Counties?
Unfortunately, a home or business can be damaged by any number of unforeseen natural and accidental occurrences. Events such as fire, various weather phenomena, and structural issues like leaking windows and pipes or failing appliances could result in incalculable harm.
Fortunately, however, restoration services exist to help those impacted by such happenings recover, clean up, and restore their home and property to its preloss conditions.
SERVPRO of Piatt/DeWitt Counties is a privately owned and operated establishment that has garnered significantly favorable ratings from our customer base for the following reasons:
Variety of Services Offered
The restoration professionals employed at SERVPRO of Piatt/DeWitt Counties offer prospective customers more services than do many restoration entities. In addition to the prototypical water removal, we offer cleanups for fires, crime scenes, commercial entities and organizations, biohazards, and mold development.
Additionally, we perform thorough COVID-19 disinfecting. This is a unique type of remedial effort designed to meet the standards set by health watchdog agencies like the Centers for Disease Control and involves the use of specialized cleaning agents geared towards eliminating dangerous viral pathogens.
More Than Cleanup
We believe that cleanup is only the first stage of the restoration process. Therefore, the team of SERVPRO of Piatt/DeWitt Counties participates in build-back projects. Should a customer wish, we will help them completely rebuild their property or establishment after safely completing the original restoration efforts.
A Large Staff
We employ a large staff of highly-trained and experienced technicians. In accommodation, we also possess a large fleet of equipped trucks. This ensures our employees always have access to the materials needed to perform any type of cleanup and respond as quickly as possible.
Ample Storage
We own a large storage warehouse. This facility allows our customers to house their possessions until their home or business is considered safe and healthy enough to return to.
Effective Communication
Not only do our team members possess extensive skill and experience but are polite, professional, and effective communicators. We are committed to keeping our customers informed and will clearly and succinctly explain every step of the restoration process.
Favored by Major Insurance Companies
We enjoy positive professional relationships with several well-known insurance companies. Many home and business policy providers recommend us to their customers. In many instances, we deal with their adjusters directly.
Numerous Satisfied Customers
Those who conduct online searches about our company will find countless positive reviews about our level of competence and commitment to customer service.
Safety After a Water Loss
3/31/2022 (Permalink)
Numerous potential safety hazards exist in performing water cleanup and restoration projects. In water damages, our team at SERVPRO of Piatt/DeWitt Counties may be working in dark, hard-to-reach areas. Safety concerns must be taken seriously and properly addressed before proceeding with emergency services and restoration work.
Safety is our number one concern and everyone’s responsibility on a water damage work site. Water damage safety includes protecting employees as well as making sure residents and owners are not in working areas of the property.
In addition, SERVPRO of Piatt/DeWitt Counties follows the IICRC S500 Standard and Reference Guide for Professional Water Damage Restoration, informing and protecting occupants from whatever safety issues may arise during a project.
A hazard is anything that may cause harm or pose a threat to life, health, property, or the environment. Water restorers must first identify all potential hazards currently within the home or business. This requires an in-depth understanding of the type of hazards commonly found in a water-damaged environment such as electrical hazards, structural hazards, and biological hazards.
Identifying Hazards
To properly protect anyone present on a jobsite, SERVPRO of Piatt/DeWitt Counties identifies hazards at the onset of each project.
We look for potential hazards within the building, as well as any processes or activities that will expose workers or bystanders to harm. Some considerations examined at this time would include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Overhead hazards, such as ceilings, filled with water that may collapse
- Electrical shock hazards due to water intruding electrical systems
- Slip, trip, and fall hazards possibly due to wet floors or deteriorated wood subfloors
- Contaminated water
- Inadequate lighting hazards
- Occupant or bystander safety during work activities and/or unauthorized entry
Consider At-Risk Individuals
SERVPRO of Piatt/DeWitt Counties considers whether the occupants of a water-damaged structure are exposed to health hazards. If any occupants are either very young (under two years of age) or very old, and if any occupants have a history of respiratory disease, allergies, or have recently been ill, precautions should be taken for their health.
Mold and other microorganisms that grow in damp, humid conditions may cause health effects. Advise potentially at-risk customers that they should leave the affected work area and possibly leave adjacent areas when mold is present or the water source is contaminated.
Focus On the Differentiators
Every water damage restoration project is different. The building or structure provides variables that may change with every project, such as the electrical system, type of building materials, or hazardous materials in the building.
The water loss itself provides variables, such as the sanitation of the water, hazardous substances in the water, length of time the water has been in the structure, and presence of mold contamination. Our team makes identifying and resolving safety hazards a top priority before proceeding with any project.
Observing appropriate safety procedures will help keep employees stay safe and healthy while they work in unsafe and unhealthy environments as part of their job.
The Federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) establishes uniform and comprehensive provisions to protect workers against workplace safety risks and health hazards.
SERVPRO of Piatt/DeWitt Counties as a team is responsible to provide a safe work environment for employees by establishing safety programs, training employees in safety procedures, and providing them with appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
Why Customer Service is SERVPRO of Piatt/DeWitt Counties #1 Concern
2/26/2022 (Permalink)
If you listed all the restoration companies in your area you would see many similarities. They all have a crew, vehicles, equipment, and technology, but what sets SERVPRO of Piatt/DeWitt Counties apart is our great customer service!
We understand that when a customer calls us, their home or business is in trouble. Once we start a job we want all of our customers to feel confident in our services and team.
No matter how big or small the job is, our team members will arrive on-time with confidence and explain the entire process to our customers and answer any questions they may have to ease the stress that was caused by fire, water, or mold. SERVPRO understands your time is valuable and every second matters when it comes to restoration.
At SERVPRO of Piatt/DeWitt Counties, we also strive to be polite, compassionate and show care to both the issue at hand and your property. Asking permission is our number one way of ensuring we do not overstep in our client’s homes or places of business. Our team members are trained to never enter a room or touch items unless we have confirmation that we are allowed to do so. We want all clients to be able to trust our team while on their property. Once the job is complete we will leave your property "Like it never even happened."
To see the SERVPRO® difference, call us at 217-935-2992 and if you have experienced our great customer service leave us a review here!
Why Customer Service is SERVPRO of Piatt/DeWitt Counties #1 Concern
2/21/2022 (Permalink)
If you listed all the restoration companies in your area you would see many similarities. They all have a crew, vehicles, equipment, and technology, but what sets SERVPRO of Piatt/DeWitt Counties apart is our great customer service!
We understand that when a customer calls us, their home or business is in trouble. Once we start a job we want all of our customers to feel confident in our services and team.
No matter how big or small the job is, our team members will arrive on-time with confidence and explain the entire process to our customers and answer any questions they may have to ease the stress that was caused by fire, water, or mold. SERVPRO understands your time is valuable and every second matters when it comes to restoration.
At SERVPRO of Piatt/DeWitt Counties, we also strive to be polite, compassionate and show care to both the issue at hand and your property. Asking permission is our number one way of ensuring we do not overstep in our client’s homes or places of business. Our team members are trained to never enter a room or touch items unless we have confirmation that we are allowed to do so. We want all clients to be able to trust our team while on their property. Once the job is complete we will leave your property "Like it never even happened."
To see the SERVPRO® difference, call us at 217-935-2992 and if you have experienced our great customer service leave us a review here!
Why SERVPRO? Residential Services
2/2/2022 (Permalink)
In need of residential services? At SERVPRO, every loss is supervised by a residential operations manager to help ensure seamless communication and timely mitigation.
What residential services does SERVPRO provide?
Life happens. Kids spill drinks, pets have accidents, and homes get dirty. We offer cleaning services ranging from air duct cleaning to removing biohazard contaminants. Our residential cleaning services will not only ease the burden of the constant maintenance of your home but will also create a safe, clean, and comfortable living environment for your family.
Among our residential services, we include Air Ducts and HVAC, Biohazard material cleaning, Carpet, and Upholstery cleaning, Ceiling, walls, and hard floors, Drapes and blinds, Odor removal and deodorization, Sewage and toilet overflow, Trauma and crime scene, vandalism, and graffiti.
Daily issues might affect your residence, but SERVPRO of Piatt/DeWitt Counties is here to address those situations. Fire, Water, and Mold Restoration are the cornerstones of our business. We are dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster. Our focus on training ensures we have the expertise and skills needed to promptly restore your property right the first time.
Why SERVPRO? For Residential Services, because our professionals can simplify the restoration process by handling both the initial damage mitigation and rebuilding the affected areas. Having one qualified company for the entire process can save time and keeps costs low if this is the issue.
SERVPRO of Piatt/DeWitt Counties can provide a full range of residential services that will bring your property back to full functionality.
What We Do
11/19/2021 (Permalink)
Before working at SERVPRO of Piatt/DeWitt Counties I had never heard of the company, I had never had any reason to call SERVPRO or any other restoration company. I was lucky enough to never experience a fire, water damage, or even storm damage. If I were to experience something I would have been so lost. So here is a blog to help you out.
So what is SERVPRO?
Here at SERVPRO we are a restoration company, and offer many different services.
Here is a list of things our company does on a day-to-day basis when dealing with restoration.
- When dealing with fire damage this is the process our technicians will go through to determine what type of fire took place and determine what proper restoration will go through.
- Water removal and dehumidification
- This process is done when there is unknown water damage and our technicians are finding the source of water. Our technicians use drying equipment that controls the temperature and humidity, minimizing secondary damage.
- Mold mitigation and remediation
- This is when mold appears in your home or business and our technicians work to control mold contaminants while protecting the health and safety of building occupants
- Catastrophic storm response
- Storms like Hurricane Isabel, and Hurricane Irene SERVPRO is always “ready for whatever happens.” SERVPRO has mobilized teams across the country to travel as needed to support large storm events.
- Pack-out and contents restoration
- A pack-out is the moving of a customer’s content to a secured storage location. For example, if a fire were to occur we would take all the belongings of a customer to clean. This helps reduce the risk of something getting damaged.
This is just a list of things we do on an everyday basis for restoration needs. Hopefully this list helps you understand more if you were to experience a catastrophe. If you have any questions you can always call us at 217-935-2992.
Be Sure You’re Choosing a Certified Team of Restoration Experts
11/19/2021 (Permalink)
Let’s be honest. No homeowners like to think about needing the type of services we provide. But when they do, it’s because their homes have been severely damaged by fire, flooding or accidents.
The type of help homeowners needs when we are called home restoration. And its goal is to get the home back to its original state. While sometimes a mop, bucket and elbow grease are enough, in other circumstances, you need a team of experts to ensure your home can be restored.
When that happens, it’s important to understand the home restoration process—and why choosing the right team can be vital to you being happy with your results.
Damage Claims Are Common
According to the Insurance Information Institute, about one in 20 homeowners will need to file a home damage insurance claim every year. The statistic includes all causes of damage and doesn’t separate the claims based on whether they need restoration services.
We also have some statistics about individual types of disasters and issues, though. For example, about one out of every 350 American homeowners will deal with a fire damage claim each year, from causes ranging from storm and lightning damage to furnace fires.
When you think about the United States’ entire population, that statistic translates to millions of families. Some of these people will need to get help from a professional team. That’s when choosing a quality restoration company will make all the difference for you.
Our Training Matters
Beyond the training offered by SERVPRO at a national level, our technicians earn valuable certifications through the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification. This non-profit group provides various certifications to ensure restoration and cleaning technicians can use the latest proven techniques when restoring your home.
If your home is damaged due to a fire or any other cause, you can always count on us for restoration assistance. We have teams who are available 24/7 in the event of an emergency. Contact us at any time to learn more about our restoration services and how we can help your family.
We Are Here To Help Piatt/DeWitt Counties
6/14/2021 (Permalink)
We have the rare opportunity to assist property owners in a number of ways here at SERVPRO of Piatt/DeWitt Counties. Disasters come in a variety of sizes and shapes. We've seen almost everything in our three decades of experience. We continue to learn new information even after decades of assisting our neighbors in Piatt and DeWitt County. However, there are a few disasters that we always deal with.
Water Damage
Water damage may occur from a variety of sources. To name a few common causes, there are burst pipes, malfunctioning equipment, human error or negligence, and ground flooding. We have a plan to get you back to life “Like it never even happened,” regardless of the cause or the epic tale that explains it.
Fire and Smoke Restoration
A fire can be a major annoyance, but it is not the end of the world. You'd be shocked how much of your personal property can be returned in certain cases. We will clean and deodorize everything in your home or company, including family heirlooms, papers, and even the walls.
Mold Remediation
Mold can be a problem in our region of the country due to the naturally high levels of humidity. If water infiltration is not adequately addressed, mold can develop. We not only provide remediation facilities but also mold monitoring and preventative measures like crawl space moisture barrier installation.
Bio Hazard Clean Up
This aspect of our work is unpleasant to discuss, but it is often important. We have the necessary training and expertise to properly clean up any environment where blood-borne pathogens may be present. Trauma and crime scene cleanup are examples of these events.
Trust the #1 Company In the Cleaning and Restoration Industry!
SERVPRO was named Entrepreneur Magazine’s #1 Franchise in the cleaning and restoration industry for the 21st consecutive year! These aren't the only programs we have. To be honest, whatever man or nature can throw at a system, we can more than likely help restore it.
Why You Need Professional Carpet Cleaning
4/1/2021 (Permalink)
If I were to ask you what was the most used thing in your home, you might say things such as your furniture or your bathroom. Many would be surprised to know that the answer is actually your carpet. The carpet in your home gets used all day, everyday. Bacteria, pollen, dirt, sand, and other allergens can get lodged into your carpets, causing them to wear down and dirty quickly. Since snow and ice are also common, sludge and ice chips can also get stuck in your carpet. When this happens, it is important to contact SERVPRO of Piatt/DeWitt County. Here are a few reasons why:
- Vacuuming Is Not Enough: This is not to say that vacuuming your home is not a good idea. It means that your floors need a little more love than just the weekly vacuum. While doing this does allow for your carpets to get cleaned, it does not do a thorough job of getting all of the nitty gritty things out of your carpet. Having professional help will ensure a better clean, and will keep your carpet looking fresh and last longer!
- Health Risks: Pollens, dust mites and their feces, mold spores and allergens get tracked into your home. If these things are not cleaned up fairly quickly, you could be in trouble when it comes to your health. By cleaning your floors regularly, you can fight against these nasty little bugs and be assured that you and your family are safe. By using SERVPRO of Piatt/DeWitt County, you can also be sure that they are taken care of permanently.
- Special Occasions: When you have guests over for a holiday or some sort of special event, you want your carpet and floors to look like new. The best way to get this look is by having professional carpet cleaning care.
- Bad Odors: Have you wondered why your home has a funny smell to it? Have you ever stopped to think that it may be coming from your floors? Now, while you may be able to spot clean it, using professional carpet cleaning will help eliminate odors. These odors are most common in homes with pets, or young children, and many things fall into the fibers of the carpet, or pet hair gets intertwined with the strands in the carpet.
Carpet Cleaning In Central Illinois
Being proactive and cleaning your floors is a great start. The best way to get quality floors is by using SERVPRO of Piatt/DeWitt County. We have the best equipment to take care of most carpet and floor stains and 30 years of experience. We have an eye for getting the work done right the first time. So what are you waiting for? Call one of our friendly staff today at 217-935-2992. We are here to help!
Who Do You Turn For Help
2/22/2021 (Permalink)
What if you had fire damage and need repair and restoration to a Commercial or Residential building? You may possibly need a board up, contents cleaned and stored. If it is not a total loss, you would need to remove soot, clean, and deodorize.
Storm came through with lots of rain and high winds and left water in your finished basement. Your contents are floating and your small shop vacuum cannot keep up. The water is wicking up the painted drywall and may have gotten into the insulation.
All the above has happened while you were out of town for 2 weeks and the moisture in the walls and flooring has caused mold.
There is only one phone call that can make this all go away, (217) 935-2992. Call SERVPRO of Piatt/Dewitt and our highly trained and caring Specialist will take care of you. SERVPRO is a preferred vendor for many national and local insurance companies. So when there is disaster call the grandmaster- SERVPRO of Piatt/Dewitt Counties !
Why Work For SERVPRO of Piatt/Dewitt County
2/3/2021 (Permalink)
Why I Love Working For SERVPRO
What is it like working for SERVPRO? This is a question I hear a lot when I am out and about on my routes. Let me tell you a well-kept secret, I absolutely love it! Is the pay fair you might ask - yes it is very fair. Is there room for advancement? Sky is the limit. Do they train and encourage growth with their employees? Again yes, the ownership would want it any other way. These are all great reasons to work for SERVPRO, but none are the reason that I personally love working here.
It all starts at the top with our owners, Dave and Suzi McGuire. They have been in the restoration business for 30 years. They started their franchise out of their garage and over time grew to be four franchises strong covering a vast majority of Central Illinois all the way into Indiana. They built this on dedication, hard work, and relationships. Not just relationships with their customers and insurance agents, but with their staff. And it shows. This is part of the culture here at SERVPRO of Piatt/Dewitt County. The entire ownership, office staff and management truly want to see you succeed and flourish.
Another reason I love this job is that you do not get in a rut like you can at many other jobs where it is the same old thing day in and day out. As a part of our SERVPRO team you may be drying a basement one day and meeting with a homeowner that suffered a house fire the very next. You might be cleaning irreplaceable family heirlooms from a fire or suit up in full PPE and fog a business for Covid and much much more. The bottom line is that the job can be very exciting, fresh and new every day! Even bigger than this though, is the knowledge that you are making a difference in someone else's life that may have been turned upside down. When you arrive at our SERVPRO office, a banner welcomes you that reads "HEROES WORK HERE." From my years with SERVPRO I will attest that this is true. Experiencing a home or business owner go from tears to a warm genuine smile is one of the greatest things to be a part of.
Lastly why I love working for SERVPRO is that they are not just in it to make a buck. Dave and Suzi care deeply for the community and are not only active themselves, but encourage all of us to be so as well. As a company we are involved in Christmas and homecoming parades, Chamber of Commerce’s throughout Central Illinois, MABAS meetings, One Winters Night which is spearheaded by Marketing Manager Butch Dalhaus raising money to shelter the homeless, Run For Life raising awareness and money for suicide prevention, Habitat for Humanity, Trunk or Treat and much much more! I would say a lot of businesses have great teams, but we here at SERVPRO have a great family. MM
What you can expect
11/23/2020 (Permalink)
When your home is on fire or starts filling with floodwater, you don't want to wait long for trained technicians to arrive. As you know, a quick response is the best way to prevent further damages. The first 24 hour period after experiencing damages is critical to the well-being of your home. Take a look at what you can expect:
- Within one hour
- Within four hours
- Within eight hours
What You Can Expect
The First Hour
A team member from SERVPRO of Piatt/DeWitt County will call you within an hour after your first request for emergency help. During that phone call, you'll cover a lot of vital information that helps our team determine which equipment and supplies to have available. You may discuss safety concerns or how to maintain communication with each other. If the situation requires, technicians will arrive to cover holes with tarps or board up broken windows and doors. This emergency response team focuses on preventing further damages with temporary solutions. Even if repairs don't require a lot of work within the first 24 hour period, technicians will be on-site to verify whether an immediate response is necessary.
On-Site in Four Hours
Depending on the type of damage and safety concerns, SERVPRO of Piatt/DeWitt County will arrive at your home ready to thoroughly inspect the damage. During these assessments, technicians can provide estimates regarding the type of repairs necessary and how long the job will take. They may talk to you about your insurance coverage and direct you to the next steps you should take. They will take any necessary stabilizing measures needed to prevent further damage. SERVPRO of Piatt/DeWitt County is always open and committed to arriving Faster to Any Size Disaster; they'll load up the appropriate equipment and search out the best route to your home.
Eight Hours After Damages
Within those first hours, after gathering information and making assessments, a restoration representative will communicate with you, to share the information they've gathered, and to go over the plan for getting your home back in shape. Within the first 24 hour period, you and a team member from SERVPRO of Piatt/DeWitt County will share a lot of information, go through an onsite home inspection, and put together a plan for restoring your home so that it looks "Like it never even happened."
Hopefully, your home will never have a fire of water loss. Should this happen though, SERVPRO of Piatt/DeWitt County is here to help! Call one of our friendly staff today at 217-935-2992 today!
Bio Hazard Clean Up
11/23/2020 (Permalink)
Biohazard cleanup can become a necessity at any time. Though incidences of drug manufacturing certainly require professional biohazard cleanup, that isn’t the only time. Though there is a significant amount of overlap between biohazard cleanup and trauma cleanup in Seattle as they are often one and the same, there are many non-physical tragedy related instances in which biohazard cleanup is required. In these instances, it can really make a difference acquiring the services of professional biohazard cleanup professionals. This is most noticeable in instances involving burst pipelines and fecal contamination.
Why SERVPRO of Piatt/DeWitt County to cleanup?
- Training – In order to get the proper certifications to perform professional biohazard cleanup, technicians must pass a number of classes and undergo rigorous training. They know the proper methods for handling contaminants and can do so without the risk of illness a non-trained individual would encounter. They also have the training required to clean your property thoroughly and ensure that it remains legally and safely habitable.
- Experience – Along with this training comes 30 years of experience in the restoration business. We know what different situations require and are prepared for each and every one.
- Equipment – Not only does a non-trained individual not have the experience and training of a technician, but they also don’t possess the proper equipment either. Depending on the contaminant, different protective measures may be required. Cleaning up a powdered contaminant requires different equipment and products than an airborne one and the radically different properties of contaminants mean that using the wrong cleaning agents can fail to properly clean an area and harm future inhabitants.
- Removal – There are specific places that biohazards need to be taken to. Not just anyone can bring it in, and quite often specialized receptacles are required just in order to transport it. Specialized licenses are also required to transport items like medical waste, and a non-trained individual could face steep fines or even jail time for illegally transporting, dumping, or attempting to remove hazardous materials.
- Legality – In addition to the transportation of bio-hazardous materials, it is often illegal to open an area to the public if it hasn’t been professionally cleaned by professionals. This is especially true when it comes to habitable places like hotels and houses. Depending on the instance, failing to have this done can result in fines and jail time.
Now that you know why calling SERVPRO of Piatt/DeWitt County is so important. Don’t hesitate to call 217-935-2992 and speak with one of our friendly staff today! We are here to help!
Raccoons are so cute, BUT not in your attic!
5/19/2020 (Permalink)
raccoon in attic
Raccoons are cute and fun to watch. However, they are very destructive when they are living in your attic. Here are list of problems that can be caused by wild animals in an attic:
Nesting materials and food debris throughout the attic
Odor problems inside the home
Parasites, roundworm, and other pathogens
Pheromone scent that can attract new wildlife
Lots of feces and urine in the insulation
Growth of mold on contaminated attic areas
It is important to act as soon as possible when you have confirmed that you have guests in your attic. You would need to call someone to clean, decontaminate, and restore the attic to its original state. This is just another job for SERVPRO of Piatt/DeWitt County. These Professionals will do the following in complete Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
- Vacuumed animal droppings throughout the attic and or insulation.
- If the insulation has high concentration of droppings /remove the insulation and replace with new after cleaning and sterilizing.
- Larger debris must be picked up by hand.
- Nesting material such as sticks, leaves, and etc. used for nesting. Keep in mind that often the nesting materials are often full of parasites.
- Clean with an antimicrobial.
When unexpected guests come your way, remember to call SERVPRO of Piatt/County (217)-935-2992.
Who do you call?
4/25/2020 (Permalink)
The rain has been beating on your roof rhythmically, nearly putting you asleep. There is not much more relaxing than a good Spring rain and watching lightning dance across the sky to end a long day at work. You shut the TV off and get up to check that the doors are locked. You go by the basement as you are shutting off the lights and notice something. Your sump pump has been awfully quiet, you cannot remember it kicking in at all this evening. You turn on the basement light and head down the stairs just to be sure. That’s when you see the water around the pool table. Your night no longer feels relaxing…
A little while later, the sump pump is operational and the standing water is slowly receding. You look around at the wet carpet, collectibles, furniture and TV. That’s when you pick up the phone and dial 217-935-2992, “Hello, SERVPRO.” You start to feel a little more relaxed as the person on the other end greets you warmly, you know everything is going to be ok.
A very good question you might ask is “Why SERVPRO?” Sure they have friendly people available to help you 24/7, but a lot of companies have that. Did you know that SERVPRO takes great pride in training their employees so they can assist you quickly and efficiently? The staff makes sure you know what they are going to do ahead of time and everyone is on the same page. Great care is taken in extracting the water soaked into the carpet and furniture. The staff wears “booties” to prevent any stains in the carpet and place blocks underneath the furniture to protect the wooden legs. They set up state of the art drying equipment to ensure mold is not a future problem. After everything is done the manager recaps what was done and makes arrangements to check on the drying process until the job is complete. All excellent reasons to call SERVPRO, maybe the best reason though is standing in front of you. The staff may be your neighbor, family or a friend as we are local and involved in our community. That’s Why.... SERVPRO…
Coronavirus
4/23/2020 (Permalink)
Coronavirus
Coronavirus Update
As the CDC continues to respond to the Covid-19 outbreak, SERVPRO of Piatt/DeWitt County professionals are uniquely prepared during this unprecedented time to clean and disinfect your home or business. The CDC encourages cleaning of counters, tabletops, doorknobs, and other high-touch surfaces with a hospital-grade disinfectant. SERVPRO uses specialty equipment such as Foggers and Electro Static Sprayers to bring you peace of mind.
SERVPRO of Piatt/DeWitt County is
Faster to Any Size Disaster
SERVPRO of Piatt/DeWitt County is locally owned and operated cleanup and restoration company covering 13 counties in Central Illinois. For the past 30 years we have been helping countless residents and business owners in our community restore their properties after smoke/fire/water/mold disasters. We provide 24-hour emergency service and have the training and expertise to handle your restoration and cleaning needs. Our highly trained technicians are dedicated to bringing you outstanding service.
We have also been assisting the community in the fight against the spread of the pandemic with cost-effective Pre Cleaning for the Covid-19 virus, we can help if you have a positive case in your facility or home. We are following the Center for Disease Control recommendations for cleaning and using EPA registered hospital-grade disinfectants.
We are centrally located in our service area. We believe we provided one of the fastest responses to requests for emergency services in the industry. We guarantee that we will return your call for emergency services within 1 hour, that we will be on-site within 4 hours or less.
- Faster to Any Size Disaster
- Highly trained technicians
- A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry
- Locally Owned and Operated
- Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment
Have Questions? Call Us Today – 217-935-2992
As a locally owned and operated business, we live, work and play in your community as well. We are ready to help whenever you need our services. Give one of our friendly staff a call at 217-935-2992 today!
SERVPRO of Piatt/DeWitt County Attends Farmer City Chamber Annual Banquet
3/23/2020 (Permalink)
Michael Speaking about Run for Life at Farmer City Chamber of Commerce Annual Banquet Dinner
Networking with other businesses in our service area is very important to the success and growth of an organization. SERVPRO of Piatt/DeWitt County takes this seriously as we know that connecting with other businesses and professionals in the area is vital to our community growth and business growth.
As a result, the employees at SERVPRO of Piatt/DeWitt County are proud to say that we are members of the Farmer City Chamber of Commerce, Clinton Chamber of Commerce, Monticello Chamber of Commerce, and Run for Life Board of Directors. Two of our marketing professionals attended the Farmer City Chamber of Commerce Annual Banquet to meet other business professionals in the area. This latest event on February 21st, 2020 at the local American Legion allowed professionals to meet other people and share information about the company they work for and to award several local teachers, students, and residents for their contributions to the community. They awarded Student of the Year, Teacher of the Year, and Citizen of the Year. Our very own, Michael Moore, even spoke at the event about Run for Life. Which is an amazing event to help identify and stop child and teen suicide in our local community.
If you are a person who feels that using local businesses is important to our community and helps in growth and development, then you should contact SERVPRO of Piatt/DeWitt County. When you have water damage, fire damage, need help with deodorization, or mold; contact the professionals at SERVPRO of Piatt/DeWitt County at 217-935-2992.
We Are Cleaning Experts
3/16/2020 (Permalink)
Here to Help
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 at SERVPRO of Piattt/DeWitt County at 217-935-2992.
SERVPRO to the Rescue
3/4/2020 (Permalink)
Biohazard clean up
Our services go beyond just fire, soot, and mold. Our crew here at SERVPRO welcomes any challenge presented our way. For instance, the situation pictured was a call we received. Blood, vomit, human bodily fluids, animal waste, needles, blades, etc; all classify as a bio-hazardous job. Once we are called we send a crew over to the scene to assess the damage and see what more needs to be done. We take pride in being well-equipped to handle these types of situations. At this job, we sent our crew in with all of the protection needed to keep them safe and they cleaned up the stains presented in the picture. There's never a job that's too little or too much of anything for us to handle here at SERVPRO of Piatt/DeWitt County. Our customer was very pleased with the results they received once our crew was done.
New Homeowners
2/24/2020 (Permalink)
attic mold from not having an exhaust fan
Congratulations on becoming a new homeowner! Now it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the effects of mold. Every home buyer hopes that mold will never be an issue for them, the truth is most homeowners will deal with mold problems at one time or another. Mold can cause structural damage to you and your home. Exposure to moldy environments can cause congestion, coughing, asthma, and irritation of the throat, eyes, and skin by coming into contact with the mold spores. With all of the potential harm that mold can do, it’s important to understand how to prevent it from entering your home. SERVPRO can help in scheduling an air sample test that shows how many spores are in the air before they proceed to do the clean up, and schedule a second test to verify spore levels are at an acceptable safe level.
There are actually hundreds of different kinds of mold that grows both indoors and outdoors. Not all mold is bad, most of us are exposed to some form of mold every day. Mold that grows in damp or poorly lit areas, however, is never a good sign. Mold is a type of fungus that latches on to materials such as wood, fabrics, cardboard, or paper and thrives in areas that have a lot of moisture and not a lot of sunlight. Mold will feed off of these organic materials and eat away at them if left untreated. You can probably imagine how mold causes structural damage to homes. Mold can completely destroy things like furniture, carpets, shelving, and other movable materials. When found in areas that can be moved, it’s important to replace such items as soon as possible. Since mold can grow and spread, always check to make sure you’ve completely removed the root of the problem. Mold causes structural damage to homes when it’s not properly addressed after spotting it for the first time. It can also be found in heating and air conditioning systems. When mold grows in ventilation systems like these, it can be incredibly harmful to your health. Mold found in these areas can affect your air quality and create many respiratory issues. It’s important to remember to clean out air ducts and filters regularly. Mold can also seep into walls, ceilings, floorboards, or tiles and can completely destroy the foundations of a home.
SERVPRO can help! Mold causes structural damage, severe health issues, and creates poor air quality. Because of the extreme destruction and danger of mold, repairs need to happen sooner rather than later. Removing mold can be easy or very difficult to do, it all depends on the structure and how far the mold has spread. One of the reasons that make it difficult to repair mold yourself without professional help, is the fact that mold can spread during the removal process. You may think that you’re getting to the root of the problem when the mold is actually being inadvertently expanded into other areas of your home. For example, let’s say you’ve found mold growing on a wooden shelf in a poorly lit room. As you remove the shelving unit, mold spores can be released and spread into carpets or other surfaces. As soon as the spores fall into the carpet, it will attach and grow again. SERVPRO of DeWitt/Piatt Coutny has a staff that is trained in how to remove mold. They seal off vents and entrance ways to prevent mold spores from spreading. They also can clean the ducts and furnace to remove spores lurking unseen.
Cleaning and repairing the damage from mold is a serious job and shouldn’t be taken lightly. Time is always of the essence when it comes to mold. The longer you wait to fix a mold issue, the more damage it can do to your family’s health and to the structure of your home. In addition, the repairs can become more expensive if the mold problem persists and becomes more severe. It’s vital to contact SERVPRO of Piatt/DeWitt County at 217-935-2992 for mold remediation as soon as possible. They can find a way to remove the mold without it spreading to other areas of your home.
When Should You Not Use Drain Cleaner?
1/2/2020 (Permalink)
clogged water pipes
When Should You Not Use Drain Cleaner?
You may be tempted to treat a clogged drain with store-bought drain cleaner in Piatt/DeWitt County. However, you should be careful about when and how you apply this potent chemical liquid. There are certain situations in which drain cleaner should never be used, in order to prevent more damage from occurring.
Plastic Pipes
The chemicals in drain cleaner react together to transfer electrons to and from organic substances, causing them to break down. This process also produces heat. That is how they force their way down further into the pipe. These two factors mean that they can warp and eat through piping made of pliable materials, like plastic. The three types of cleaners you should stay away from if you do have plastic pipes are:
- Sulfiric or muriatic acid cleaners
- Lye or caustic potash cleaners
- Bleach, peroxide or nitrate cleaners
Total Blockage
Often, drain cleaners won't be able to clear a clogged drain if there is a solid mass of hair, oil and debris completely blocking the flow of air and liquid. So, if they are used in these situations, the cleaner ends up sitting there above the block. Given enough time, the strong chemicals can deal out some real damage to your pipes, even if they are not plastic or old.
Old Pipes
Old pipes will have a number of the same problems as plastic pipes because they are brittle and delicate. If you discover that your pipes are old or rusting, you are probably better off replacing your plumbing rather than going through sewage cleaning. New pipes are the best way to ensure that one does not burst and you have water damage remediation to deal with instead of a blockage. Most people don't even know there are other options for dealing with a clogged drain. Instead of chemical cleaner, you can try a biological or a mechanical option like a drain snake. Ask your local hardware store for more guidance. If unwelcome water is present, however, call SERVPRO of Piatt/DeWitt County at 217-935-2992.
Is Mold Damage Covered by Homeowner's Insurance
1/2/2020 (Permalink)
mold growth next to exterior windows
Is Mold Damage Covered by Homeowner’s Insurance?
Once a small amount of water gets where it doesn’t belong mold can start to develop. One certain problem with mold/fungus growth is that it damages, and can eventually destroy, the materials from which houses are made. Some homeowners’ policies may include mold insurance, but it depends on the wording and circumstances.
Your Insurance May Cover Mold Damage Did the mold develop as the natural consequence of a “covered peril”? This typically includes such things as the following: Fire damage, Storm and lightning damage, Accidental discharge from plumbing and appliances So, if a lightning bolt strikes and damages your roof, allowing water to enter it, that would be covered. If lightning hits a tree, causing it to fall on the roof and encourage fungus growth, the same applies.
There Are Limits, Conditions and Exceptions When experts tell you to read your insurance policy carefully, it is because there can be significant distinctions in the fine print. For instance, even if the mold damage was caused by a covered peril, you won’t be covered if the damage was reasonably preventable – such as knowing about a leak but letting it go for longer than necessary.
Also, a homeowner’s insurance will never cover damages from flooding. The National Flood Insurance Program provides that. Keeping a higher indoor humidity than normal also could trigger an exception.
Some policies may have a rider or endorsement that specifically does offer mold coverage. However, there are usually limits to the payout, capping damage awards. Finally, any insurance claim can potentially raise the cost of your premiums, so in some circumstances, you may be better off paying a professional mold cleanup company like SERVPRO of Piatt/DeWitt County yourself to fix the problem.
When fungus growth does threaten your home in Piatt/DeWitt County, take a good look at your insurance or call SERVPRO at 217-935-2992 for advice. They can answer your questions and take pride in leaving your home “Like it never even happened.”
Did You Know We Offer Construction Services?
12/2/2019 (Permalink)
Construction Project
Rebuilding after a disaster.
After a disaster damages your home - whether it be a fire, water, or storm - you will need to rebuild and restore. For decades SERVPRO has been known for their ability to respond to a disaster and restore your home to make it "Like it never even happened.”
The first thing you must do after a disaster is take temporary protective measures such as placing roof tarps to prevent additional damage, boarding up to secure the building, and then remove water and debris. Mold, smoke, fire, and water damage all have their own protocol for restoration and our experts know how to tackle each problem.
Once your home or building is secured and the hazards are removed, you can start the rebuilding process; from the structure itself to preserving and restoring the treasured items inside your home - including heirlooms, art, and family photos. The professionals at SERVPRO of Piatt/DeWitt County can simplify the restoration process by handling both the initial damage mitigation and rebuilding the affected areas. Having one qualified company for the entire process can save time and keeps costs low.
SERVPRO of Piatt/DeWitt County can provide this continuity by supervising a full range of restoration services that will bring a building back to full functionality.
- Board Up
- Carpet Repair and Installation
- Document Drying
- Dry Cleaning
- Drywall Installation
- Drywall Removal
- Electrical
- Electronics Restoration
- Fine Art Restoration
- Furniture Restoration
- General Contracting
- Hardwood Floor Repair
- HVAC Services
- Move Out
- Painting
- Plumbing
- Roofing Services
- Tree Removal
- And more!
If you are in need of construction services contact SERVPRO of Piatt/DeWitt County at 217-935-2992.
Farmer City Christmas Parade
11/26/2019 (Permalink)
Farmer City Christmas Parade 2019
Farmer City Christmas Parade is one of the biggest events in the small town of 200 people. And we love being involved in the community. We participated in the Farmer City Annual Christmas Parade this past Sunday and had a blast. We were one of over 100 entries in one of the 17 parades that we are going to be in this holiday season. Make sure to come out and see what crazy costumes we are in, in a town near you! This parade was harder for us to decorate our car since it was light out, but we sure stood out in the nighttime (lighted) parades. We are here in all the communities that we service. Please make sure that we are your first call for any kind of disaster, water loss, fire, mold, etc.
SERVPRO of PIATT/DEWITT COUNTY call us at (217) 935-2992.
Run for Life
11/26/2019 (Permalink)
Run for Life race take off picture
We are so proud to announce that our 1st Annual Run for Life was a great success. Run for Life is a 5K/10K designed to raise money to help with Teen Suicide Awareness. We sat up at many summer fairs and festivals over the summer to get the word out. We also had several smaller fundraising events throughout the year to help raise money. On November 1st, 2019, was the big day. We had over 100 racers signed up ready to race on that cold windy morning. Our 1st place overall winner was 12 year old Ryan Baxter.
With Ryan’s help, and the many other racers and volunteers we were able to raise just over $10,000 to help with Teen Suicide Awareness. We are currently in the works of getting all of our plans together for funds disbursement to local groups and schools to with our initiatives.
We have also already started planning for the 2020 event. If you have any questions, please contact us at SERVPRO of PIATT/DEWITT at 217-935-2992.
Why Does My Carpet Smell?
8/1/2019 (Permalink)
Moisture or dampness
Sometimes, moisture can get underneath the carpet and carpet pad, leading to musty odors.
This moisture can come from humidity, spills or potted plants that drip onto the carpeting.
A flood can also cause carpet odor, such as when a finished basement floods during a rainstorm.
If not addressed properly, continued moisture exposure can cause mold and mildew to grow under the carpet padding. Not only will it increase the smell, it also creates a health risk.
Pet odor
When pets use the carpet as a bathroom, the smell can really linger.
Even after a carpet cleaning, the smell of pet urine may return. This is due to the gases released by the bacteria that are digesting the urine. If any of the urine remains in the rug fibers, it will continue to smell.
The same is true for vomit, another common problem associated with pets and carpeting.
These bacteria are activated by water, which is why the smell may intensify after a thorough cleaning.
Dry carpet cleaning treatments or treatments that use enzymatic odor removal products are the best solution for eliminating pet smells. Enzymes are particularly effective because they attack the bacteria, thus eliminating the source of the smell.
Cigarette smoke
If a smoker lives in the home, the carpet can collect the cigarette smoke odor.
While the homeowners may not notice the stench because they live with it, visitors or someone who purchases the home will definitely notice the smoke smell.
A professional carpet cleaner may be able to remove the smell, but if the smoking was excessive, a carpet deodorizer may not be enough, and the carpeting may need to be replaced.
Old age
Carpeting is made from fibers. Over time, those fibers break down. When the carpet begins to smell old, there is little that can be done.
Carpet cleaning cannot take the old, musty smell from carpet. This is when it simply needs to be replaced.
In addition to the smell, old carpet starts to release dust, which can contribute to indoor allergies.
Food and drink spills
Food and drinks that spill onto carpet can lead to odors.
Like pet smells, these organic products attract bacteria. As the bacteria break down, they release smelly gasses. Again, professional carpet cleaning is the best solution to remove the smell.
Once you find the source of your carpet odor, you can decide on the best treatment. For organic smells like pet odors or food spills, consider two professional cleanings to thoroughly remove the bacteria.
For other problems, like old age or mold, you may need to replace the carpet. Knowing where the odor is coming from will help you make the right decision for treatment.
Competitive Restoration Prices
5/6/2019 (Permalink)
When it comes to pricing for the restoration work we provide, you will never find hidden costs or misleading fees.
You will always get the great quality work SERVPRO of Piatt/Dewitt Counties is known for at a reasonable price. When we create estimates for our customers, we use the exact same program that insurance companies use. This program shows us the different services we offer and provides us a dollar amount.
With 29 years of experience under our belts, it is safe to say we are seasoned. We have the knowledge to know where the loss of your disaster came from and what we need to do to fix it. As a nationally (and internationally) known and respected brand, you can trust that you are in the best hands to handle the emergency.
Don’t be tricked with other companies claiming cheaper prices. Oftentimes, we receive “fix-it” jobs left from the other guys. We understand how frustrating it can be to have a company work on your home, just to have to call us to finish what they started.
There are many businesses out there claiming they have the greatest quality work at the cheapest prices. With SERVPRO of Piatt/Dewitt Counties on your side, you will receive honest quality estimates and honest quality work ALWAYS. Give us a call at 217-935-2992 and we will work with you every step of the way. [JB]
Why SERVPRO? Because We Do It All!
4/30/2019 (Permalink)
We worry about your restoration emergency so you don't have to.
From start to finish, you will see that SERVPRO of Piatt/Dewitt Counties will take care of your restoration emergency from start to finish. A fire, for example, can wreak havoc not only on your home or office but your precious time and checkbook too. There is no need to worry. Not only do we possess the experience, but the equipment and talent on our team to make sure the disaster looks like it never took place. After removing any drywall that is burned and unsalvageable, we will make sure your home down to the studs is clean and smelling great. Besides any demolition that needs to be done, we will begin reconstructing your home back to the way it was. This includes painting your walls as well. It will be like an entirely new room in your home.
If you have recently experienced a restoration emergency, let our team here at SERVPRO of Piatt/Dewitt Counties take care of everything so you don’t have to. We will always work with you each step of the way and make sure you are satisfied. Give us a call at 217-935-2992 for more information. [JB]
Soda Blasting – Everything you need to know
4/25/2019 (Permalink)
Soda Blasting involves one of the softer abrasive blasting materials, rating an average 2.4 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness (1-10). Most abrasive blasting cabinets aim to maximize abrasive recycles and minimizing dust collector service, and for this reason, most sandblasting uses harder abrasives like plastic and glass beads. Soda blasting is the exception, a one-time-use abrasive, used for special applications when recycling abrasive is not important.
Soda Blasting: The Good
The main advantage of soda blasting is it’s a cost-efficient, single-use abrasive. Although recycling abrasive is the name of the game for most abrasive blasting applications, there are a few special applications not needing to recycle abrasive. Onetime use abrasives are used for applications like ship cleaning that require huge amounts of abrasive – it typically takes one million pounds of abrasive for an average ship – or maybe a smaller amount for the back bed of an old truck. Additionally, soda is the primary abrasive to clean oily parts because once it removes the oil; the abrasive doesn’t cycle back through to hit the part again. Soda is also water soluble making sure no abrasive remains in critical bearing areas!
Six Rules for Soda Blasting Success
- Always use a direct pressure abrasive delivery system that uses lower blasting pressure to maximize abrasive velocity without reaching maximum soda impact velocity
- Never blast using more than 30 to 35 psi pressure when using direct pressure delivery
- Always use a ghost flow out the nozzle to prevent Soda flooding and or slower cleaning
- Use equipment designs that understand the proper use of soda and collection of spent soda
- Know that soda used at higher pressure will surface etch and change part metallurgy.
- Exceeding maximum impact velocity will simply create a failed soda blasting cabinet with a failed dust collector.
Soda Blasting: The Bad
Because soda is now so popular, manufacturers and retailers are offering sub par quality soda blast cabinet to make a quick buck. They do not know the nuances of soda as an abrasive nor do they understand its limitations.
Yes, soda has important characteristics, but it’s not a magic bullet. Soda cannot be recycled the way other abrasives like steel shot, steel grit, silicon carbide, aluminum oxide, garnet, and ceramic, glass or plastic beads. Being that soda is so soft; it explodes into tiny fragments upon impact with the object being blasted. Additionally, soda abrasive doesn’t work harden the part being cleaned because it’s meant to be used a low abrasive velocity.
Soda Blasting: The Ugly
Today, because of the need for a soluble abrasive like soda, you see everyone selling soda blasting cabinets. Unless you have very few parts to blast or blast only a few times a month for minutes all these blasting cabinets that are supposed to contain the soda will soon be the biggest mess you could possibly imagine all with failed dust collectors.
The problem is that some retailers sell cheap slag and soda to blast cabinet operators. Often, the operator thinks the soda can be recycled and runs the machine in excess of 60 psi in a siphon delivery system or 30-35 psi in a direct pressure delivery system. This causes the abrasive to explode on impact, severely reducing visibility and simultaneously creating tiny particles that are sucked into the dust collector – leaving the cabinet kaput.
Pro Tip: If the dust collector gets packed with soda abrasive, the blasting cabinet fails, it’s that simple.
Media Blast offers three duty cycle soda cabinet models: the Blizzard Soda Blast Cabinet, the N-200 Soda and the Pro Soda. Each is matched to a specific usage – recreational to industrial. Each model provides users an environmentally friendly clean part with its original finish intact, free from trace oil residue. If you think soda blasting is right for your application, Media Blast can supply you with a soda blast cabinet with superior visibility that keeps soda out of the dust collector to ensure your needs are met with minimal machine maintenance.
Learn more about SERVPRO and Soda Blasting by contacting our Piatt/Dewitt Counties office at (217)935-2992! Any time day or night, someone is ready to take your call.
Tips for Preserving Personal Items After a Flood
3/29/2019 (Permalink)
Time is of the essence when it comes to safeguarding valuables submerged in flood waters. Mold formation can begin within 48 hours of immersion, and contaminated "black water" can carry dangerous chemicals and pathogens. It's a good idea for homeowners in Piatt and Dewitt counties to learn about content cleaning before disaster strikes. Here are a few tips on what can and can't be salvaged, and how to minimize damage to precious belongings.
Unsalvageable Items
Unfortunately, most porous materials that have come into contact with black water cannot be saved during the content cleaning process. This includes:
- Furniture items
- Carpeting and padding
- Particle board cabinets
- Portions of drywall or insulation that have been immersed.
Microscopic toxic chemical compounds and fungal spores can pose a serious risk to a home’s inhabitants. Non-porous items, on the other hand, may be able to be sanitized and kept.
Immediate Steps To Take After Storm Damage
Legal papers, photo albums, artwork and other precious items that cannot be replaced might be saved, especially if you act quickly to minimize further damage.
Papers, artwork and photographs should be separated and removed from albums and frames and placed on plastic screens or hung using plastic clothespins (contact with metal or other types of materials could cause irreparable damage). Photos can also be gently rinsed in clean water before drying. To salvage important books, insert a paper towel every few pages to soak up harmful moisture.
It is recommended that you air dry items indoors. Open windows, air conditioners, fans and dehumidifiers can all help to increase airflow and reduce drying times. Avoid using heat during this process, such as irons or hair dryers, as they can cause further damage.
If the black water contamination is especially severe, or if mold is already present, you may want to leave the bulk of your content cleaning to a professional flood restoration team in Piatt and Dewitt counties.
Give SERVPRO of Piatt/Dewitt Counties a call at (217) 935 2992. We are available 24/7 to service any of your damaged needs. (LB)
What is your Exit Plan?
3/14/2019 (Permalink)
Every second counts during a fire. In a matter of moments, a small flame can turn into a major fire, making it critical to be prepared by having an escape plan in place. A survey conducted by the American Red Cross shows only 26 percent of families have developed and practiced a home fire escape plan. Once a plan is developed, it is critical everyone in the home understands the plan; the best way to do this is by practicing the escape plan at least twice a year. The following are a few suggestions to help you develop an emergency escape plan for your family.
Draw a map of each level of your home and show all doors and windows. Find two ways to get out of each room. Make sure all doors and windows that lead outside open easily.
Consider escape ladders for sleeping areas on the second and third floor. Only purchase collapsible escape ladders evaluated by a recognized testing laboratory. Store them near the window where they will be used.
Choose an outside meeting place a safe distance in front of your home where everyone can meet after they’ve escaped. Make sure to mark the location of the meeting place on your escape plan.
Teach children how to escape on their own in case you cannot help them.
Plan for everyone in your home with special considerations for elderly or disabled individuals.
Practice your fire escape plan at night and during the daytime.
Escape Planning for Your Business
Although an emergency escape plan is not required for all businesses, Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recommends building an emergency action plan to protect yourself, your employees, and your business during an emergency situation. OSHA suggests the following steps when developing such a plan.
Organize an Emergency Preparedness Procedures review with employees to review your company’s emergency plans. You may wish to select an individual or team of individuals to lead and coordinate your emergency plan.
Once a plan is developed, post evacuation procedures, including routes and exits, where they are easily accessible to all employees. Ensure all exits and routes are clearly marked and well lit, wide enough to accommodate the number of evacuating personnel, and unobstructed and clear of debris at all times.
Conduct office evacuation exercises and drills. Designate a safe spot outside of the facility where employees can regroup, recover and conduct a head count. Once completed, evaluate how well the plan worked and if additional training or exercises are needed.
Tips provided by the National Fire Protection Association and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration.
SERVPRO of Piatt/Dewitt Counties
Bus: (217) 935-2992
Fax: 9217) 643-2812
3813 N. Cunningham Ave. Urbana IL 61802
LB
Different Types of Fire Extinguishers
2/11/2019 (Permalink)
A look at all the different types of Fire Extinguishers.
Water
- Fire Extinguishers have a Class A rating and are suitable for fighting fires involving solid combustibles such as wood, paper, and textiles.
- Electrical equipment should be avoided when using a water extinguishers (unless water with additive are used), as water is a conductor.
AFF Foam
- AFFF Foam fire extinguishers are highly effective on Class A and Class B fires (the foam agent helps to prevent re-ignition).
- Some foam extinguishers have been diametrically tested to 35,000 volt (35kv) and can be used on or near electrical appliances.
Carbon Dioxide (CO2)
- CO2 fire extinguishers were originally designed for use on flammable liquid fires, and therefore have a Class B fire rating.
- They are ideal for electrical fires, CO2 is not a conductor and they do not leave behind any harmful residue.
ABC POWDER
- ABC Powder fire extinguishers are extremely versatile and can be used on Class A, Class B, Class C, and electrical fires.
- They are available in a range of sizes from 1-9 kg and ideal for application in environments containing mixed fire risks. However, there is a risk of inhalation when using powder extinguishers and therefore not recommended for use within small rooms, homes, ad offices.
Water Mist
- Water mist fire extinguishers are highly effective on Class A, B, C, F, and electrical fires.
- The unique design of the water mist extinguishers' supersonic nozzle creates a microscope mist curtain, reducing the oxygen content. Water mist extinguishers are also safe on fires caused by electricity, as the water mist does not conduct electricity and the water mist does not form puddles which could lead to electrocution.
Wet Chemical
- Wet chemical fire extinguishers are designed specifically for use on fires involving combustible cooking media such as burning oil and fat.
- They have a Class F rating and a special lance applicator nozzle. They usually have an additional Class A rating and are normally not designed for use on Class B fires (petrol, diesel, paint, paraffin etc.), although the 31tr Gloria wet chemical firs extinguisher is an exception.
Call SERVPRO of Piatt/Dewitt for any of your fire needs, 24/7 at (217) 935-2992. (LB)
Fire Extinguisher Classes
2/6/2019 (Permalink)
The fire classification system is designed to categorize fires into groups based on the type of fuel involved. Each fire class is represented by a letter of the alphabet (with the electrical which are simply referred to as “electrical fires”) and an icon. This helps users to select an appropriate fire extinguisher in the event of a fire.
Class A Fires
- Solid Combustibles
- Fire involving solid combustible materials such as wood, textiles, straw, paper, coal etc.
Class B Fires
- Flammable Liquids
- Fire caused by combustion of liquids or materials that liquefy such as petrol, oils, fats, paints, tar, ether, alcohol, stearin, and paraffin.
Class C Fires
- Flammable Gases
- Fires caused by combustion of gases such as methane, propane, hydrogen, acetylene, natural gas and city gas.
Class D Fires
- Flammable Fires
- Fires involving combustibles metals such as magnesium, aluminum, lithium, sodium, potassium and their alloys. Combustible metal fires are unique industrial hazards which require special fire extinguishers.
Class F Fires
- Combustible Cooking Media
- Fires involving particularly hot or deep oil and grease fires, such as deep fat fryers in commercial kitchens or overheated oil pan fires in homes. Normal water-based extinguishers with large droplets would cause an ‘explosion’ of stream and carry burning oils and fats from the container. Equally, a CO2 extinguishers jet would carry burning oil out of the container and also would have in-sufficient cooling effect to stop reigniting. Wet chemical extinguishers, on the other hand, lay a cooling foam layer on top of the burning fat/oil and react with the liquid, stopping air supply to the fire.
Electrical Fires
- Electrical Appliances
- Fires involving electrical appliances such as computers, electrical heaters, stereos, fuse boxes etc.
Call SERVPRO of Piatt/Dewitt for any of your fire needs, 24/7 at (217) 935-2992. (LB)
Dehu! What is it?
1/28/2019 (Permalink)
Call SERVPRO Piatt/Dewitt at (217)935-2992, for all your Dehu needs.
As water damage restoration professionals, we need professional-grade equipment that helps us tackle the toughest of jobs and deliver outstanding results for our clients. A powerful dehumidifier is a key component in our suite of tools. But what does a dehumidifier do?
Conventional dehumidifiers are designed for most water-damage remediation projects, and they can easily be transported from job to job and loaded and unloaded from a vehicle. They condense water vapor by passing air over refrigerated coils, and a heat pipe prevents frost from forming. This type of Dehu can also be used in your home for moisture management. It helps to keep moisture levels more comfortable in humid environments, and helps ward off musty odors.
We use machines called LGR Dehumidifiers. LGR stands for low-grain refrigerant, which is a fancy way of saying these dehumidifiers provide maximum power in removing moisture from the air. How do they work? LGR dehumidifiers feature a double cooling system that lowers the temperature of moisture-filled air once inside the machine. This leads to more condensation that forms on the coils inside the machine, which in turn leads to more moisture pumped out and less moisture in the air that is returned to the room.
Now for my favorite Dehu!
The Phoenix Dry Max! What is special about the Dry Max? It's tiny compared to its brothers and sisters, but it still packs the same punch! It has an integrated handle and wheels as well as on board storage for the power cord and condensate hose!
Commercial Cleaning Services
1/3/2019 (Permalink)
Let SERVPRO handle all your Commercial needs!
Commercial Cleaning Services
SERVPRO of Piatt and Dewitt counties can help clean and protect your investment.
Spending extra time and resources to clean and disinfect your office or warehouse space is something you don't always have time to do. Turn to the professionals, to let us handle the everyday wear and tear that gradually soils your office. When dirt, odor, and moisture problems go beyond the scope of your regular janitorial staff, you need to call SERVPRO of Piatt/Dewitt for prompt service.
We specialize in all commercial cleaning services, from removing an odor problem to deep cleaning flooring and carpets; you can rely on us to make your workspace look its very best. SERVPRO of Piatt/Dewitt can work around your regular business hours so there will be no disruption or downtime for your office. From general cleaning of workspaces to heavy cleaning of warehouse walls and ceilings, we have specialized training, products, and equipment to get your commercial property clean and safe. A clean office promotes employee health and safety, production and overall happiness. A clean business keeps customers coming back.
SERVPRO of Piatt and Dewitt counties wants to help keep your facility clean and a place where people want to work and shop. We have service agreements that range from weekly cleaning services, quarterly, or by the call. We'll work with you and around your schedule and cater our services around your needs.
Our commercial cleaning services include:
Biohazard and Sewage
SERVPRO employees are trained to safely remove biohazards and dispose of them properly following OSHA and health regulations. Water from sewer system backups should be considered very dangerous and is best left to the professionals. Our employees are equipped with the necessary safety apparatus and cleaning products, we can help transform these unhealthy environments back into clean and safe workspaces.
Trauma and Crime Scene Cleanup
Accidents and crime scenes often have blood or other biohazard contaminants that may pose a severe health risk. Our highly trained service professionals will respond immediately and safely clean and disinfect any trauma or crime scene with empathy and respect.
Carpet and Upholstery
A good rule of thumb is to have your carpet and upholstery professionally cleaned every 12 months. Protect your investment by calling us to clean and maintain your carpet and upholstery. Ceilings, walls, and floors are exposed to dirt, dust and other contaminants from inside and outside. Whether they need general maintenance cleaning, or heavy cleaning from smoke or fire damage, SERVPRO of Piatt/Dewitt has the expertise to do the job right the first time.
Odor Removal and Deodorization
We have several different types of deodorization techniques. One of our Production Managers will discuss with you the method that will be most beneficial for your property. Masking the odors and other shortcuts are not what we do. We fully address the source of the odor so it doesn't return.
Vandalism and Graffiti
SERVPRO offers emergency services for board up due to broken windows or damaged structure. Often simple acts of vandalism, like breaking a window, can cause significant water and mold damage if not addressed promptly. In addition to removing spray-painted graffiti from exterior walls, we also clean driveways, sidewalks, asphalt, metals, glass, wood, plastic and masonry.
Why SERVPRO
11/27/2018 (Permalink)
Sometimes life happens and we are left with something totally unexpected. Maybe a fire robbed us of precious memories. Maybe a water pipe broke while we were on vacation. Maybe a clean-up job is just too overwhelming. That is where SERVPRO comes into the picture, helping us get back to normal.
Why SERVPRO, one might ask. We often don't think about about the unpleasantness of fire' water'mold or major clean-ups until it is right there staring us in the face. SERVPRO does. SERVPRO is not just your typical run of the mill cleaning company, far from that. SERVPRO is our neighbor, involved in our community. The staff is professionally trained so when the need arises they are prepared. These employees are not just well trained, but are motivated and care about the people they help 24 hours a day seven days a week. Shelves are lined with specialty equipment for every emergency from industrial dehumidifiers and air scrubbers to air scrubbers and soda blasters. The best reason to choose SERVPRO however, is its belief and commitment to community.
Often employees can be found volunteering their time and talent at Habitat For Humanity. They can be found running food drives so everyone can have a warm and wonderful Thanksgiving dinner. You will find them doing relief efforts for storm events like Hurricane Harvey. They pass out candy with other local merchants on Halloween providing a safe place for our kids to Trick Or treat. They are in Christmas and Homecoming parades. They work hard to bring awareness to preventing teen suicide. They are active in all aspects of our community, they are our neighbors. Why SERVPRO? They do all this and much much more, quite well I would add.
24/7 Emergency Service
