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Fire & Water - Cleanup & Restoration

Archived General Blog Posts

Stay Safe in Extreme Heat

7/17/2019 (Permalink)

What to Know 

An excessive heat watch has recently been issued for the Central Ohio area over the next few days. That makes now an important time to consider safety precautions for extreme heat. Heat affects all people, but especially the young, the elderly, and people with illnesses or chronic diseases. However, even young and healthy people can be affected if they participate in strenuous physical activities during hot weather. 

Heat-related illnesses, such as heat exhaustion or heat stroke, happen when the body can not properly cool itself. The body normally cools itself by sweating, however during extreme heat this may not be enough. During extreme or excessive heat, a person’s body temperature rises faster than it can cool itself. There are several precautions that you can take to prepare for and prevent extreme heat from affecting you and your loved ones.

Tips for Preventing Heat-Related Illnesses

  • Stay cool indoors
  • Schedule outdoor activities carefully
  • Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing
  • Wear sunscreen 
  • Pace yourself 
  • Stay hydrated 
  • Stay away from very sugary or alcoholic drinks
  • Do not leave children or animals in cars
  • Avoid hot and heavy meals
  • Keep your pets hydrated
  • Know the signs of heat-related illnesses
  • Monitor those at high risk
  • Check for updates 

Heat related deaths and illnesses are preventable. Despite this, around 618 people in the United States are killed by extreme heat every year. Please take the proper precautions to ensure that you and your loved ones stay safe. 

Source: https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/extremeheat/heattips.html 

Minimize Plastic Use

5/6/2019 (Permalink)

Think Green With SERVPRO of Licking County

At SERVPRO of Licking County we are trying to make a conscious effort to use less plastic in 2019. According to the EPA, in 2015, landfills received 26 million tons of plastic. By minimizing your plastic use and recycling, we are one step closer to making the world a better place to live.

Try minimizing your plastic use with these helpful tips:

  • Bring your own shopping bag
  • Carry a reusable water bottle
  • Bring your own cup
  • Pack your lunch in reusable containers
  • Say no to disposable straws and cutlery
  • Skip the plastic produce bags
  • Slow down and dine in
  • Store leftovers in glass jars

SERVPRO of Licking County, here to help you think green!!

Call SERVPRO of Licking County at 740-587-0938.

Source: https://www.epa.gov/facts-and-figures-about-materials-waste-and-recycling/plastics-material-specific-data 

Continuing Education Course 2019

5/3/2019 (Permalink)

Next CE Class: July 24, 2019

SERVPRO of Licking County offers Continuing Education courses annually. We typically choose to hold the course at another local business in Licking County in support of the community. This year’s course will be held at The Davis-Shai House in Heath, Ohio.  

This is a free CE credit course and is available to insurance agents and adjusters. The course is designed to provide those in attendance with valuable information to allow them to better service their clients and a better understanding of the work performed by mitigation companies.

Our next course will cover the topic of “Understanding the Restoration Industry: Property Fire Damage Restoration” and be held on July 24, 2019 from 8:00 am to 12:00 pm. This course will help you better understand what your insured is going through when they have fire damage and will demonstrate examples of work performed to mitigate a fire damage.

100% Attendance is REQUIRED in order to receive CE Credit for this course.

To find out more about this upcoming Continuing Education course or to register for the class, contact SERVPRO of Licking County at 740-587-0938 or email bwalker@SERVPROlickingcounty.com.

Allergy Season

5/2/2019 (Permalink)

Springtime bringing bad allergies?

Allergy season is in full swing. Our Air Duct & HVAC Cleaning services can improve the air quality in your home or business and help mitigate the effects of pesky pollen.

Since the ventilation system is often the biggest culprit in poor air quality, inspecting the ductwork in your home or business should be a high priority. If your HVAC has been operating for some time without attention, it could be circulating one or more of the following:

  • Dust
  • Pollen
  • Odors
  • Pet fur and dander
  • Dirt and debris
  • Other contaminants

Some occupants are more sensitive to these contaminants than others. Allergy and asthma sufferers, as well as young children and the elderly tend to be more susceptible to the types of poor indoor air quality that air duct cleaning can help address.

If you would like to schedule service for your home or business, please call (740)-587-0938 today! 

Let our professional team do the cleanup with the proper procedures to keep you, your home or company safe. 

The Sky is the Limit

4/30/2019 (Permalink)

Success Does Not Happen in Your Comfort Zone

If you live your life inside your comfort zone, you will never succeed. Living inside your comfort zone is safe and easy. However, if you want to grow as an individual, you have to venture outside your comfort zone. 

It is almost impossible to grow inside your comfort zone. By leaving your comfort zone you are able to experience things you might never have if you would have stayed comfortable. With growth and new experiences comes the ability to achieve your dreams. When you begin to achieve your dreams you are on the path to success. 

As John Maxwell says, "If we are growing we are always going to be outside our 
comfort zone."

There is no day like today to take that first step on the path to success. Do not settle for less. When you venture outside your comfort zone the sky is the limit. 

At SERVPRO of Licking County we encourage all of our employees to step outside their comfort zones and work towards self-growth. 

How will you take that first step?

Read more John Maxwell quotes here: 

Source: https://www.goodreads.com/author/quotes/68.John_C_Maxwell

First Day of Summer: Vacation Preparation Tips

6/21/2018 (Permalink)

Happy First Day of Summer!

Before leaving on vacation, follow these housekeeping tips to minimize any damage from severe weather.

1) Keep all trees and shrubs well-trimmed.

2) Bring all outdoor furniture inside.

3) Cover windows with shutters.

4) Place important items and papers in a waterproof case and place it in an elevated location inside your home.

If you experience water damage, you know who to call. SERVPRO® of Licking County understands the stress and worry that comes with a water damage and the disruption it causes your life and home or business. Our goal is to help minimize the interruption to your life and quickly make it "Like it never even happened."

If you would like to schedule service for your home or business, please call (740)-587-0938 today! 

Spring Cleaning

4/16/2018 (Permalink)

Life happens and with life comes dirt, gunk and spills. Even the highest-quality items can show soiling over time. Protect your investment by calling your local SERVPRO Franchise Professional.

SERVPRO of Licking County has the expertise to provide a deeper clean than your basic house cleaning service. Not only will our cleaning services ease the burden of the constant maintenance cleaning of your home or business, but also create a safe, clean and comfortable living/working environment for you and your family/coworkers.

You already recognize SERVPRO as a leader in Fire and Water Cleanup and Restoration industry but our professional residential cleaning services can also make a dirty carpet "Like it never even happened."

Trying to get your home or business "spring" clean? How about SERVPRO clean? You can see what services we provide at our website, or call us 24/7 at 740-587-0938. Our team will gladly work with you to get your home fresh and clean for spring!

What To Do Until Help Arrives: Vandalism Damage

4/2/2018 (Permalink)

Vandalism: 

Do:

  • Hose or wash egg damage from building exterior as soon as possible. 
  • Vacuum glass particles from carpets and upholstery. 
  • Save containers which reveal the ingredients of spilled inks, cosmetics and paints. 

Don't: 

  • Attempt to remove ink, paint or cosmetic stains. 
  • Operate damaged lamps or appliances.
  • Discard furniture wood chips, broken pieces from porcelain, furniture or art objects. 

SERVPRO of Licking County at 740-587-0938….here to help! Let our professional team do the cleanup with the proper procedures to keep you, your home or company safe.

Are Some Home Improvements Illegal?

3/20/2018 (Permalink)

Did you know that some DIY projects could put you behind bars? “Just because you can do it yourself doesn’t mean you should. Some jobs call for a licensed professional, especially jobs that involve plumbing, electric, and HVAC installations and repairs. Improperly performed home improvements may cause injury, void warranties, compromise insurance claims, and complicate resales”  

Click on the source link below to continue reading and to view the slideshow.

Source: https://www.bobvila.com/slideshow/13-home-improvements-that-are-illegal-to-diy-49321

Check with your local city and county to make sure you are also following proper protocol for them as well.  Educate yourself before you begin. 

SERVPRO of Licking County at 740-587-0938….here to help! Let our professional team do the cleanup with the proper procedures to keep you, your home or company safe.

Christmas Tree Safety Tips

12/6/2016 (Permalink)

Although Christmas tree fires are not common, when they do occur, they are more likely to be serious.

Picking the tree

  • Choose a tree with fresh, green needles that do not fall off when touched.

Placing the tree

  • Before placing the tree in the stand, cut 2" from the base of the trunk.
  • Make sure the tree is at least three feet away from any heat source, like fireplaces, radiators, candles, heat vents or lights.
  • Make sure the tree is not blocking an exit.
  • Add water to the tree stand. Be sure to add water daily.

Lighting the tree

  • Use lights that have the label of an independent testing laboratory. Some lights are only for indoor or outdoor use.
  • Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections. Read manufacturer's instructions for number of light strands to connect. 
  • Never use lit candles to decorate the tree.
  • Always turn off Christmas tree lights before leaving home or going to bed.“

For more information, please continue reading at: http://www.nfpa.org/news-and-research/fire-statistics-and-reports/fire-statistics/fire-causes/holiday/christmas-tree-and-holiday-lights

SERVPRO of Licking County at 740-587-0938….here to help! Let our professional team do the cleanup with the proper procedures to keep you, your home or company safe.

June is National Safety Month-Carbon Monoxide

6/24/2016 (Permalink)

Here a few tips on how to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning copied directly from:http://safetytoolboxtopics.com/General/carbon-monoxide-poisoning-kills-two.html

·       " Have your heating system, water heater and any other gas, oil, or coal burning appliances serviced by a qualified technician every year.

·        Do not use portable flameless chemical heaters (catalytic) indoors. Although these heaters don't have a flame, they burn gas and can cause CO to build up inside your home, cabin, or camper.

·        If you smell an odor from your gas refrigerator's cooling unit have an expert service it. An odor from the cooling unit of your gas refrigerator can mean you have a defect in the cooling unit. It could also be giving off CO.

·        When purchasing gas equipment, buy only equipment carrying the seal of a national testing agency, such as the American Gas Association or Underwriters' Laboratories.

·        Install a battery-operated CO detector in your home and check or replace the battery when you change the time on your clocks each spring and fall."

Please click the source link provided above to continue reading and learning!

This information was copied from the above link as a source of information and was not written by SERVPRO of Licking County.

SERVPRO of Licking County 740-587-0938...Here to help

June is National Safety Month- Fire Escape Tips

6/23/2016 (Permalink)

Having a good plan in place can save your life, your families and your pets!

Here are a few fire escape tips copied directly from the link provided.  Please click the link to find more tips and information as this is just a snippet of the online article to get you started:https://www.usfa.fema.gov/downloads/fief/up_in_smoke_parents_brochure.pdf

·         “You have a fire escape plan for your home.

·         You know two ways out of every room.

·         You know the best way to take your baby outside if there is a fire.

·         You practice the plan with everyone who lives in your home at least twice a year.

·         You have a meeting place outside.

·         Everyone knows how to call 9-1-1 from outside to report a fire.”

Please click the link above to read more about fire safety.

Learn more by visiting: www.usfa.fema.gov

SERVPRO of Licking County 740-587-0938...Here to help! 

June is National Safety Month- Electronic Cigarettes

6/21/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Licking County 740-587-0938...Here to help! 

When smoking you have to be sure to follow safety procedures to prevent fires.  Did you know that electronic cigarettes can cause fires?  According to the NFPA website (see source link below):

“Fires have occurred while e-cigarettes were being used, the battery was being charged, or the device was being transported. Battery failures have led to small explosions. Never leave charging e-cigarettes unattended. E-cigarettes should be used with caution.”

Also:

“The risk of dying in a home structure fire caused by smoking materials rises with age.  One out of four fatal victims of smoking-material fires is not the smoker whose cigarette started the fire.”

Sources: “Reproduced from NFPA’s website, http://www.nfpa.org/public-education/resources/safety-tip-sheets. ©2016 NFPA.”  

This information was copied from the above link as a source of information and was not written by SERVPRO of Licking County.

June is National Safety Month-Smoke Alarms

6/17/2016 (Permalink)

Photo Source: https://www.amazon.com/Kidde-Hardwire-Ionization-Detector-Battery/dp/B001XQ5VHW

Every home and business should have working smoke alarms.  Batteries need to be changed at least twice a year.  A good time to change batteries is in the fall and spring when changing our clocks.

The following tips were provided by and copied directly from:http://www.nfpa.org/public-education/by-topic/smoke-alarms

 (Source: http://www.nfpa.org/education ©NFPA 2016http://www.nfpa.org/public-education/resources/safety-tip-sheets). 

Please click on the link to continue reading for more tips!

·         Install smoke alarms inside and outside each bedroom and sleeping area.

·         Install alarms on every level of the home. Install alarms in the basement.

·         Large homes may need extra smoke alarms.

·         It is best to use interconnected smoke alarms. When one smoke alarm sounds they all sound.

·         Test all smoke alarms at least once a month. Press the test button to be sure the alarm is working.

This information was copied from the above link as a source of information and was not written by SERVPRO of Licking County.

SERVPRO of Licking County 740-587-0938...Here to help

June is National Safety Month- Summer Safety

6/16/2016 (Permalink)

Summer is a time for vacations, fun, and very hot weather. There are also lots of weather hazards.

The following was copied directly from online to get you started reading the article:

http://www.nws.noaa.gov/com/weatherreadynation/summer_safety.html#.VOdUW_nF9u3

"Being prepared means learning about summer weather and water hazards such as hurricanes, heat, lightning, rip currents, air quality, tsunamis and wildfires. Here’s what you need to know:

  • The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 through November 30. Hurricane hazards come in many forms, including storm surge, heavy rainfall, inland flooding, high winds, tornadoes, and rip currents.
  • Since 2003, 43 states within the continental United States have come under a tornado watch; 49 states have come under severe thunderstorm watches; and lightning strikes occur in every state.
  • Heat waves are common across the country during the summer. They are dangerous because the human body cannot cool itself properly when exposed to an extreme combination of heat and humidity.
  • In 2015, there were 26 lightning fatalities.
  • The United States Lifesaving Association estimates that more than 100 people each year die in the surf zone waters of the U.S. and that rip currents cause the majority of those fatalities. Rip currents are just one of many beach hazards.
  • Wildfires kill 30 people, destroy 2,800 homes and burn more than 7 million acres, roughly the size of the state of Massachusetts, on average, per year.
  • Flash flooding is the number one killer associated with severe weather." 

Please click the link above to read more of the onlilne article and tips.

This information was copied from the above link as a source of information and was not written by SERVPRO of Licking County. 

SERVPRO of Licking County 740-587-0938...Here to help! 

June is National Safety Month- Creating a Safety Management Program

6/15/2016 (Permalink)

There are many things that can be done to create a safe workplace program. Travelers Insurance online wrote an article with lots of great tips.

The following portion was copied directly from: https://www.travelers.com/resources/workplace-safety/how-to-create-a-safety-management-program.aspx

  1. Demonstrate management involvement – Management must lead by example. A visible demonstration that you embrace a safety culture is imperative to its success. Provide the essential time, budget and resources to create and support a safety program.
  2. Communicate your safety plan clearly – Your safety plan must be published and available to all employees. Reminders and updates should be timely and effective. Allow employees to contribute their suggestions to making the workplace safer.
  3. Get everyone involved – A safety program is likely to be more effective when employees at all levels are involved. Standardized policies should outline responsibilities and accountability for all employees. Safety goals can become part of job descriptions and employee reviews. Safety committees can help ensure that safety practices are understood and reinforced throughout the company. Positive reinforcement of safe behaviors can be an effective way to help build the desired culture.
  4. Train your employees to work safely – Safety training should begin from the moment an employee is hired. Ongoing training is also essential to creating a safety culture.
  5. Review, revise, improve – A safety program should be dynamic, especially since most business environments continue to evolve. An effective safety program should be flexible enough to adjust to changes. Regularly review, evaluate and identify risks that could affect safety, and make the changes necessary to keep your workplace safe."

Please click the link above to read more tips! 

This information was copied from the above link as a source of information and was not written by SERVPRO of Licking County. 

SERVPRO of Licking County 740-587-0938...Here to help! 

June is National Safety Month- Safety in the Workplace

6/14/2016 (Permalink)

There are many things that can be done to create a safe workplace culture. Travelers Insurance online wrote an article with lots of information.

The following was copied directly from: https://www.travelers.com/resources/workplace-safety/creating-a-safety-culture-in-the-workplace.aspx

"The following four steps can serve as a starting point in driving safety across your business.

1. Evaluate risks. To understand how to create a safer workplace, you must first understand the risks you face every day. Each task and associated risk should be properly evaluated, and safety-based changes should be considered.

  • Analyze past incidents and near misses.Understand that past incidents can help you identify root causes and identify risks and exposures that threaten the safety of your employees and the success of your business.
  • Identify the risks before they result in loss. Review your work policies and procedures, buildings and equipment, employee work practices and behaviors and geographic location to determine if there are opportunities to prevent or mitigate loss. And hold people accountable to the practices.
  • 2. Design a plan to keep safe. A good plan is the best place to start, but it is only the beginning. Once you have a plan, you must act to eliminate or minimize risk.

  • Get commitment. Your management team should be committed to a safety culture from the beginning.
  • Stay focused. Keep focused on the risks and exposures identified during your evaluation.
  • Prioritize your efforts. Focus on the risks that pose the greatest threat. You should consider frequency and severity of the loss potential, and/or the opportunity to prevent or mitigate risks.
  • Identify solutions and resources.Your solutions can vary from implementing engineering controls to creating administrative policies and procedures. These can help create positive changes in safety attitude, commitment and culture.
  • 3. Implement your plan. Implementation entails communication of the plan and its details, training, regularly scheduled practice and drills, and ongoing review. A thorough plan will cover a number of potential risk areas, including buildings and equipment, the environment, employees, customers and vendors.

  • Communicate and train - the real test of a safety program and culture is not what is written down on paper, but rather how well it actually works. How well your plan works is often dependent on what your employees know and what they do at the time of an incident.
  • 4. Monitor, evaluate and improve your plan. As your business environment changes, so should your safety program. Regularly test your plan to determine if it fits the changing business environment and reflects changing accountabilities.

  • Monitor the plan and collect feedback to determine the effectiveness of the plan.
  • Regularly compare your safety performance against the plan’s expectations.
  • Make adjustments when necessary.
  • Recognize success. Be sure to communicate and celebrate your safety successes.”
  •  Please click the link above to read more tips! 

    This information was copied from the above link as a source of information and was not written by SERVPRO of Licking County. 

    SERVPRO of Licking County 740-587-0938...Here to help! 

    June is National Safety Month- Treating Burns

    6/10/2016 (Permalink)

    The following was copied directly from: http://www.nsc.org/NSCDocuments_Advocacy/Fact%20Sheets/Treating-Burns.pdf

    "Treatment for burns depends on the type, severity and size.

    Treatment for minor burns – first and second degree burns no larger than 3 inches in diameter 

    1. Cool the burn. Hold under cold running tap water until the area is free from pain even after removal from the water. If this is not possible cool with a cold compress. 2. Cover the burn with a sterile nonstick dressing and bandage. Don’t use fluffy cotton or other material that may stick to or get lint in the wound. Wrap the bandage loosely to avoid putting pressure on burned skin. Bandaging reduces pain, protects blistered skin, and helps prevent infection. 3. Take an over-the-counter pain reliever. Aspirin, Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, etc.), naproxen (Aleve) or acetaminophen (Tylenol, etc). Use caution when giving pain relievers to children or teenagers. Although aspirin is approved for use in children older than 2 years, children and teens recovering from chickenpox or flu-like symptoms should never take aspirin." 

    This information was copied from the above link as a source of information and was not written by SERVPRO of Licking County.

    Please click the link above to read more tips! 

    SERVPRO of Licking County 740-587-0938...Here to help! 

    June is National Safety Month- Ladder Safety

    6/9/2016 (Permalink)

    The following was copied directly from: http://www.nsc.org/NSCDocuments_Advocacy/Fact%20Sheets/Slips-Trips-and-Falls.pdf

    “· Always keep at least three points of contact with the ladder (i.e. two hands and one foot or two feet and one hand) · Place the base on a firm, solid surface · A straight or extension ladder should be placed 1 foot away from the surface it rests against for every 4 feet of ladder height · When you climb, always face the ladder and grip the rungs, not the side rails · Climb down a ladder one rung at a time · Do not climb with tools in hand – use a tool belt· Keep your body between the ladder side rails when climbing · Do not lean or overreach – reposition the ladder closer to the work instead · Tie down a ladder when using it outdoors and do not use it in windy or inclement weather.”

    This information was copied from the above link as a source of information and was not written by SERVPRO of Licking County.

    Please click the link above to read more tips! 

    SERVPRO of Licking County 740-587-0938...Here to help! 

    June is National Safety Month- Fall Prevention Tips

    6/7/2016 (Permalink)

    The following was copied directly from: http://www.nsc.org/NSCDocuments_Advocacy/Fact%20Sheets/Slips-Trips-and-Falls.pdf

    “Clean up all spills immediately · Stay off freshly mopped floors · Secure electrical and phone cords out of traffic areas · Remove small throw rugs or use non-skid mats to keep them from slipping · Keep frequently used items in easily reachable areas · Wear shoes with good support and slip resistant soles · Arrange furniture to provide open walking pathways · Keep drawers and cabinet doors closed at all times · Install handrails on all staircases on both sides · Remove tripping hazards (paper, boxes, books, clothes, toys, shoes) from stairs and walkways · If you have young children, install gates at the top and bottom of stairs (unlatch the gate in order to pass – don’t climb over them) · Ensure adequate lighting both indoors and outdoors · Remove debris from exterior walkways · Adjust gutter downspouts to drive water away from pathways · Periodically check the condition of walkways and steps, and repair damages immediately · Never stand on a chair, table or other surface on wheels”

    This information was copied from the above link as a source of information and was not written by SERVPRO of Licking County.

    Please click the link above to read more tips! 

    SERVPRO of Licking County 740-587-0938...Here to help! 

    June is National Safety Month

    6/6/2016 (Permalink)

    The following was copied directly from: https://healthfinder.gov/nho/JuneToolkit2.aspx

    “Make a difference: Spread the word about ways to reduce the risk of injuries. Encourage communities, workplaces, families, and individuals to identify and report safety hazards.

    How can National Safety Month make a difference?

    We can all use this month to raise awareness about important safety issues like:

    ·         Medication safety and prescription painkiller abuse

    ·         Driving, biking, and working safely

    ·         First aid and emergency preparedness

    ·         Preventing slips, trips, and falls

    Everyone can get involved in reducing the risk of injuries. Together, we can share information about steps people can take to protect themselves and others.”

    This information was copied from the above link as a source of information and was not written by SERVPRO of Licking County.

    Please click the link above to read more tips! 

    SERVPRO of Licking County 740-587-0938...Here to help! 

    Buckeye Lake Cleanup

    5/5/2016 (Permalink)

    Our crews spent countless hours this weekend cleaning up at Buckeye Lake. They worked diligently to ensure residents would have their homes back to normal in no time. We are seen working to clean up the problem here in this short clip from WBNS-10TV - Columbus, Ohio. http://bit.ly/1NLIMST When disaster strikes we are here 24/7 to make it "Like It Never Even Happened." Call the professionals at SERVPRO of Licking County  if you need our help, 740-587-0938.

    Severe Storm Tips From The Ohio State University

    4/29/2016 (Permalink)

    The following was copied directly from: https://dps.osu.edu/severe-storm

    "Severe Storm

    1. Try to remain calm.

    2. Seek shelter in a sturdy building away from windows, exterior doors, and walls.

    3. Do not use elevators.

    Lightning

    1. Try to remain calm.

    2. Seek shelter away from windows.

    3. Do not use elevators.

    Outdoors

    1. Seek shelter in a sturdy campus building.

    2. Avoid elevated places and isolated trees.

    3. Keep your head and body as low to the ground as possible.

    4. Minimize contact with the ground.

    5. Find shelter as quickly as possible.

    Information to Know

    • Location of interior corridors
    • Evacuation routes/procedures
    • Shelter-in-place procedures"

    SERVPRO of Licking County 740-587-0938...Here to help!

    What Can Cause a Flood?

    3/31/2016 (Permalink)

    There are many reasons for floods.  A great source of information can be found at https://www.floodsmart.gov/floodsmart/pages/flooding_flood_risks/what_causes_flooding.jsp .

    Be prepared!  Here are some suggestions taken directly from the site above: 

    • "Review your current homeowners insurance policy and become familiar with what is and is not covered, as damage due to flooding is typically not covered.
    • Call your insurance agent to purchase flood insurance for your home (and business) and its contents.
    • Make a flood plan and plan evacuation routes.
    • Itemize and take pictures of possessions.
    • Keep valuable items and family heirlooms on the upper floors of your home or building.
    • For more information about how to prepare for a flood, click here.
    • To learn more about flood risks associated with heavy rains, download this fact sheet."

    SERVPRO of Licking County can be reached at 740-587-0938 if you find you need help.  Remember:

    What To Do After Flooding

    • Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.
    • Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and tabletop items.
    • Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions.
    • Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
    • Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in summer.
    • Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting.
    • Remove art objects to a safe, dry place.
    • Gather loose items from floors.

    What NOT To Do After Flooding

    • Don't leave wet fabrics in place. Hang furs and leather goods.
    • Don't leave books, magazines or other colored items on wet carpet or floors.
    • Don't use your household vacuum to remove water.
    • Don't use television or other household appliances.
    • Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging.

    Spring Cleaning Tips

    3/25/2016 (Permalink)

    Seven Spring cleaning tips quoted directly from http://www.hgtv.com/design/decorating/clean-and-organize/7-spring-cleaning-tips :

     "If spring is in the air, don't let a musty house spoil it. Here are seven tips for giving the season the welcome it deserves.

    1. The best refrigerator cleaner is a combination of salt and soda water. The bubbling action of the soda water combines with the abrasive texture of the salt to make a great cleaner.
    2. The best way to get rid of lime buildup around the faucet it is to lay paper towels over the fixture, soak it with vinegar and let it set for an hour. The deposits will soften and become easier to remove.
    3. Clean screens with a scrap of carpeting. It makes a powerful brush that removes all the dirt.
    4. Clean windows with a rag and soapy water, and then dry them with another rag. You can also go to an auto-parts store and buy a windshield squeegee, which cleans very well.
    5. If drapes are looking drab, take them out of the window, remove the hooks and run them through the air-fluff cycle in the dryer along with a wet towel (to draw off the dust) for 15 minutes. Hang them back in the windows immediately.
    6. Clean the blades of a ceiling fan by covering them with a coat of furniture polish. Wipe off the excess and lightly buff.
    7. Sometimes comforters, blankets and pillows don't need to be cleaned, but they do need to be aired out after a long winter in your closed-up home. Take them outside and hang them on a clothesline for a day."

    SOURCE: http://www.hgtv.com/design/decorating/clean-and-organize/7-spring-cleaning-tips

    Today's Tip!

    3/16/2016 (Permalink)

    Having trouble getting that smell out of your microwave? Try out this helpful hint!

    Deodorize and clean your microwave with the help of a lemon and kosher salt. Cut the lemon in half, sprinkle it with salt, and scrub the microwave's interior. The lemon's scent combined with the citric acid will clean the mess and neutralize the bad odor. 

    SERVPRO of Licking County 740-587-0938. 

    Spring Break Tips

    3/9/2016 (Permalink)

    Are you or your family headed out of town for spring break? Remember these quick tips to keep your home safe.

    - Keep valuables away from windows. 

    - Set up timed lights around your house.

    - Have a neighbor watch your house. 

    - Turn your home phone ringer off.

    - Don't announce your upcoming vacation on social media. 

    SERVPRO of Licking County 740-587-0938.

    Today's Tip!

    2/23/2016 (Permalink)

    A clogged or slow-draining sink is a common problem in most homes. It shouldn't happen too often, but when it does, use this natural formula to fix it.

    When you notice your drain is starting to clog, add 1/2 cup of baking soda down it, followed by 1/2 cup of vinegar. 

    Cover it with a wet cloth to contain the science fair-like effects. Wait ten minutes and then flush with boiling water. 

    New Positions Available!

    2/22/2016 (Permalink)

    We are pleased to offer new positions available immediately. 

    - Production Technician

    SERVPRO® of Licking County is looking to fill a full-time technician position. Seeking an individual who has a great attitude and the ability to work efficiently in high demand situations. If you describe yourself as dependable, a people person, energetic, and also are a strong hard worker with a get-up-and-go attitude who finds an ever-changing environment not only enjoyable but a challenge to be met, we want to speak with you.


    Duties include, working in all weather conditions; cleaning up water (includes sewage) and fire damaged buildings utilizing specialized equipment; cleaning walls, ceilings, floors, personal property; demolition, lifting heavy equipment and personal property; mold removal; carpet/upholstery cleaning; duct cleaning; and death/trauma scene cleanup. Other job expectations include working overtime at a moments notice and being on-call during non-business hours, weekends, and all holidays per schedule/s, providing excellent customer service, following the SERVPRO® uniform policy, and completing documentation, as appropriate.

    Job Qualifications:
    Be authorized to work in the United States.
    Must have a professional appearance and great attitude.
    A valid driver license with a reasonable driving record.
    Reliable transportation to/from work.
    Ability to pass a criminal background check with no felony convictions or misdemeanors involving violence or theft.
    Because we provide 24-hour emergency services, must be willing to be on call, as needed. Some night and weekend work is required.
    Must be able to lift a minimum of 50 pounds.
    Able to problem-solve.
    Be proficient in communications, both verbal and written.

    Please apply at our office:
    4617 Columbus Road
    Granville, Ohio 43023

    Ice Dam Damage

    2/17/2016 (Permalink)

    3 ways ice dams damage your property:

    1. Heat collects in the attic and warms the roof, except at the eaves.

    2. Snow melts on the warm roof and then freezes on the cold eaves.

    3. Ice accumulates along the eaves, forming a dam. Melted water from the warm roof backs up behind it, flows under the shingles, and into the house.

    Icicles are pretty, but they can cause damage, too. We see happen this quite often. Call us, if you experience water damage in your home or business.

    SERVPRO of Licking County 740-587-0938

    Portable Heater Safety Tips

    2/16/2016 (Permalink)

    Indoor heating is the second leading cause of residential fire deaths! Make it a priority to review ways to help reduce the risk of a heating-related fire. Play it safe with these space heater tips!

    - Always use manufacturer's specified fuel when using fuel burning space heaters.

    - Remember to turn portable heaters off when leaving the room or going to bed. 

    - Plug space heaters directly into outlets, never into an extension cord or power strip. 

    SERVPRO of Licking County 740-587-0938

    Tips From The Red Cross To Prevent Frozen Pipes

    2/11/2016 (Permalink)

    Tips from the Red Cross to prevent frozen pipes:

    1) Keep garage doors closed if there are water supply lines in the garage.

     2) Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing. Be sure to move any harmful cleaners and household chemicals up out of the reach of children.

     3) When the temperature is very low outside, let the cold water drip from faucets served by exposed pipes or pipes in exterior walls. Running water through the pipe - even at a trickle - helps prevent pipes from freezing because the temperature of the water running through it is above freezing.

     4) Keep the thermostat set to the same temperature both during the day and at night. By temporarily suspending the use of lower nighttime temperatures, you may incur a higher heating bill, but you can prevent damage if pipes freeze and burst.

     5) If you will be going away during cold weather, leave the heat on in your home, set to a temperature no lower than 55ºF.

    SERVPRO of Licking County is here 24/7 if you need our help.  Call us 740-587-0938.

    Apartment and Condo Restoration

    2/10/2016 (Permalink)

    Whether you've got a loft, a condo or a studio apartment, we'll make it all feel like home again. #UnderOneRoof

    SERVPRO of Licking County 740-587-0938.

    Energy Savings Tip

    2/8/2016 (Permalink)

    Looking for a natural way to reduce energy costs? Indoor plants can help regulate temperatures in both the cold and the heat with their added humidity.

    SERVPRO of Licking County 740-587-0938.

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