A Day in the Life of a SERVPRO Marketing Support Coordinator: Tackling Fire Damage Head-On

7/11/2024 (Permalink)

Hello, everyone! Today, I want to take you on a journey through a typical, yet extraordinary, day in my life as a SERVPRO® Marketing Support Coordinator. My role involves a mix of marketing duties, customer relations, and hands-on involvement in restoration projects. On this particular day, I had the opportunity to step out of the office and into the field, assisting with a fire damage job. Here's how it went:

I arrive at the scene, a modest house still showing signs of a recent kitchen fire. I meet the homeowner, a resilient woman in her late 50s who’s understandably shaken but eager to get her life back on track.We go over the step-by-step process of our fire damage restoration, from initial assessment to final cleanup. I assure her that our team is highly skilled and will work diligently to restore her home to its pre-fire condition.

With the plan set, I join our mitigation team. First, we focus on removing fire-damaged appliances like the microwave and the sink. This involves disconnecting them safely, hauling them out, and documenting the damage for insurance purposes. Next, we move on to the hard labor: tearing down parts of the ceiling, walls, and cabinetry that the fire destroyed. It's physically demanding work, but incredibly rewarding. As we pull down the charred drywall and remove the damaged cabinetry, I can see the space slowly transforming from a disaster zone back to a clean slate ready for rebuilding. We carefully remove soot and debris, preparing the space for the next phases of restoration. The homeowner watches from a distance, and I occasionally check in with her, providing updates and reassuring her that everything is on track.

Today was a stark reminder of why I love my job. Being a SERVPRO Marketing Support Coordinator isn't just about marketing; it's about being part of a team that makes a real difference in people's lives. It's about meeting people at their lowest and helping them rebuild their lives, one step at a time.

Every day at SERVPRO is unique, but the common thread is our commitment to helping our clients recover from disasters. Whether I'm coordinating marketing efforts or getting my hands dirty on a job site, I’m proud to be part of a team that puts people first. If you ever find yourself in need of restoration services, know that we’re here to help, ready to turn the tide and restore your peace of mind. Thanks for reading, and stay safe!

September is National Preparedness Month

9/1/2022 (Permalink)

September is National Preparedness Month (NPM). NPM is FEMA's national annual preparedness outreach. It is managed and sponsored by FEMA's Ready Campaign. The Ready Campaign, in conjunction with the Ad Council, aims to educate and empower Americans during NPM and through the year to prepare for and respond to all types of emergencies, including natural disasters and potential terrorist attacks. National Preparedness Month culminates on September 30th with National Preparedness Day, the National Day of Action. The theme for 2022 is: A Lasting Legacy. The life you've built is worth protecting. Prepare for disasters to create a lasting legacy for you and your family. SERVPRO® is proud to spotlight National Preparedness Month this year. By doing so, we want to make sure you are prepared in case of a disaster? whether natural or man-made. If you haven't taken the time to think about how different disasters could affect you, then we challenge you to take the necessary steps to become informed and develop an emergency plan for before, during, and after an event for yourself and your family. IN THIS ISSUE of the Restoration Newsline:

• Why is NPM observed in September?

• What 2 states experience the most tornadoes?

• Preparedness steps that could save your life

• What to include in an emergency supply kit We must work together to ensure that our families, businesses, places of worship, and neighborhoods are ready for the unthinkable.

Begin preparing vital information now so you can address the unique needs of your business during an emergency situation. Contact your local SERVPRO® team of professionals to find out more preparedness planning tips and how you can minimize business interruption with SERVPRO's Emergency READY Profile®.

Using your insurance in conjunction with SERVPRO

8/31/2022 (Permalink)

When a disaster strikes your property, it is important to know who to call! SERVPRO of La Grange Park / North Riverside, Arlington Heights/Prospect Height, and Elmhurst is highly trained and experienced in disaster restoration and cleanup. Our team is the trusted leader in the restoration and cleaning industry, and we offer a wide variety of services for your residential and commercial properties. Water damage, fire damage, and mold damage don't stand a chance against our team! Locally owned and operated, we are dedicated to being "Faster to any size disaster!" Available 24 hours a day, days a week for your emergency.

When you experience an unexpected disaster in your home, you may not know how to handle it. After the shock is over, your first thoughts are “what am I going to do?” and  “How am I going to pay for this?”. These are two very common questions homeowners ask themselves given the high cost of repairing water, fire, mold or trauma damage. Good news for you, our team of professionals is here to help eliminate that concern.

Here at SERVPRO of La Grange Park / North Riverside, Arlington Heights/Prospect Height, and Elmhurst set ourselves apart from other restoration companies with our seamless design to work directly with most insurance companies while keeping property owners in the loop. Our dedicated team of professionals understands the insurance industry. From knowing how the claims process works, to getting your claim submitted and your repairs documented correctly. One major advantage we use is our advanced technology that allows us to perform very accurate estimates with detailed reports on replacements. Many of our team members have worked directly with insurance agents and adjusters.

As one of the largest restoration and damage remediation companies in the country, we work with hundreds of insurance companies to help our customers get their claims processed quickly and fairly. Many insurance companies know that SERVPRO handles losses professionally and often recommend us to their policyholders.

If you have any questions or are in need of emergency services, don't hesitate and give our SERVPRO of La Grange Park / North Riverside, Arlington Heights/Prospect Height, and Elmhurst team a call!  

The Standards for The Restoration Industry

4/7/2022 (Permalink)

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

IICRC Certified Firms must

Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.

Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.

Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up to date on the latest changes in the industry.

Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.

Maintain a written complaint policy and agree with the Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.

The IICRC Develops the Standards for The Restoration Industry

The IICRC has been the driving force in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation. These IICRC standards take years to develop and require the coordination of experts in the field: manufacturers, industry organizations, insurance professionals, training schools, contractors, and public health professionals.

Standards are reviewed and updated every five years. Standards must evolve to keep up with the rapid changes and advancement of science and technology in the fields of fire, water, and mold cleanup and restoration industry.

About SERVPRO of LaGrange Park/North Riverside 

SERVPRO LaGrange Park/North Riverside  has been specializing in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after fire, smoke, and water damage disasters for a very long time. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration, and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: from initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification. Rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. Our continuing education programs also give us the ability to connect with insurance agents, adjusters, and more. This provides lessens the gap in the work processes for SERVPRO and insurance.

Helping Families: Biohazard Clean-up

3/28/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has been helping our communities since 1967 and continues to do so in over 1700 locations. Founded by Ted and Doris Isaacson SERVPRO has always been a family brand. SERVPRO has been helping families by providing necessary services to families in need. Bereaved families are often unprepared for the loss of a passing family member or friend. These families can turn to SERVPRO professionals that are committed to providing a safe, courteous cleanup and restoration service to protect the health of family members and to help preserve their memories of the deceased.

SERVPRO follows the IICRC S540 Standard trauma and crime scene clean up eight principles for trauma and crime scene clean up. The first principle is putting the safety and health of occupants, technicians, and workers first. We want to make sure that everyone is protected and is provided the correct equipment for the task a hand. Principle two is documentation, all unusual environmental conditions that require deviations from standard work practices associated with the removal of human blood, bodily fluids, or OPIM should be documented. Principle three, Evaluation and assessment. A preliminary evaluation may be performed prior to starting the remediation process if a preliminary determination indicates that biological contamination exists. The fourth principle is documentation during remediation, again we just want all work processes documented on our procedures. Principle five is contamination control or making sure the spread of cross-contamination is stopped or lessened. Principle six, contamination removal, physical removal, and proper disposal of the human blood, body fluids, and OPIM contamination Principle seven; Application of disinfectant, ensuring that the contents are safe for use by applying a government-registered antimicrobial. Eighth principle- post-remediation evaluation and verification. Verifying and confirming the cleanliness of contents and performing an evaluation.

 These eight principles allow SERVPRO to provide families with safe, courteous cleanup and restoration services. It is our goal to help families in need so to lessen the worries of safety, cleanup, and restoration so that families may preserve their memories of the deceased.  

We Have Highly Trained Specialists to Restore Your Home

1/19/2022 (Permalink)

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

IICRC Certified Firms must

• Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.

• Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.

• Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.

• Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.

• Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.

The IICRC Develops The Standards For The Restoration Industry

The IICRC has been the driving force in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation. These IICRC standards take years to develop and require the coordination of experts in the field: manufacturers, industry organizations, insurance professionals, training schools, contractors, and public health professionals.

Every five years, the standards are reviewed and updated. The water damage restoration field changes rapidly with advancements in technology and science, and therefore the standards must evolve to keep pace.

About SERVPRO of LaGrange Park/North Riverside

SERVPRO of LaGrange Park/North Riverside specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke, or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: from initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

We Are Here to Help!!

1/14/2022 (Permalink)

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help

SERVPRO of LaGrange Park/North Riverside is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of LaGrange Park/North Riverside has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

• Your name and contact information
• Your insurance information (if applicable)
• The street address of the water-damaged home or business
• When did the flooding or water damage occur?
• What caused the water damage (if known)?
• Is there electricity available (on-site)?

Call us today: (708) 240-4873

Will Insurance Pay For Mold Remediation

1/13/2022 (Permalink)

If you notice mold growth, it's best to eliminate it quickly. SERVPRO has the equipment and knowledge to assist in the cleanup process.

If you notice mold growth, it's best to eliminate it quickly. SERVPRO has the equipment and knowledge to assist in the cleanup process. Restoration costs can add up quickly, though, and you're probably wondering whether your homeowner's insurance can help pay the bill. Sometimes it does, and sometimes it won't. You'll want to review your policy and speak with your insurance adjuster. Here are three things to know before having that conversation.

1. Was It Accidental?

Is mold coverage not in your policy? Owners usually have to add it separately. That doesn't mean that you can't get aid. Did your roof cave in from snow or ice? Did a pipe suddenly freeze and burst? Insurance companies may payout if the spores spread as a result of something out of the homeowner's control. If the initiating incident is included then the subsequent events get bundled with it.

2. Was the Issue Remedied Quickly?

Before a check is cut, the company could ask for evidence proving your home was under proper care. Take the broken pipe for example. Can you prove that you called for help as soon as possible? Did you let it sit and fester for a while? If the latter is the case, you may have encouraged the fungus growth, giving grounds for denial. It's best to care for water damage as quickly as possible. Prove your efforts by saving receipts. Show efforts to have repairs made and dry up the premises.

3. Is a Different Policy Available?

Speak openly about concerns. As you meet about policy updates including mold insurance limits. For instance, some companies only pay up to a certain amount, capping the remediation and leaving the rest of the cost to the residents. Consider supplementing coverage. While you may have to pay a bit more each year, that annual amount could offset large numbers.

Eliminate mold growth as soon as possible. When you notice an issue, call SERVPRO and we will contact your insurance company if needed.

Why the best option for post-disaster cleanup and restoration is SERVPRO

11/1/2021 (Permalink)

Why SERVPRO is Top Choice

#1 Excellent Disaster Preparedness Resources

SERVPRO's network is one of the reasons for its success in crisis response. Because of the state-wide franchise network, there are enough resources to take on any job in any location. The experts of SERVPRO are prepared to repair commercial or residential damage.

Regardless of the size of the incident, all SERVPRO teams have access to additional resources for a quick and reliable response. 

#2 Highly Skilled Groups

Each SERVPRO crew is made up of experts that have vast experience in catastrophe recovery. 

SERVPRO is at the forefront of catastrophe recovery on a regular basis, allowing it to develop its processes and respond quickly. These teams are in charge of all areas of catastrophe recovery, including:

2017 Hurricane Harvey

2014 Polar Vortex

2010 Nashville Floods

2005 Hurricane Katrina

#3 Quick Responses for Lowering Total Costs

Storms cause damage on a property, enabling plenty of water to enter regions that should be dry. To save the building's structural integrity, the water must be removed quickly. 

SERVPRO conducts a thorough cleaning process to prioritize areas that will be costly to replace or restore if not addressed right away. The response team knows which surfaces should be saved and which may be replaced at a reasonable price. As a result, the restoration time is reduced and the outcomes are more consistent.

#4 Experience with Insurance Companies

After a disaster, dealing with an insurance company is a necessary part of the process. That's why SERVPRO has established a network of contacts in the industry to ensure a seamless and effective relationship. SERVPRO works nicely with any insurance provider and has a good reputation for quality work on-site.

What to expect with the unexpected

4/2/2021 (Permalink)

Call us today 708-240-4873

SERVPRO of LaGrange Park/North Riverside is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of LaGrange Park/North Riverside has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

• Your name and contact information
• Your insurance information (if applicable)
• The street address of the water-damaged home or business
• When did the flooding or water damage occur?
• What caused the water damage (if known)?
• Is there electricity available (on-site)?

Spring Cleaning!

4/2/2021 (Permalink)

Call us today 708-240-4873

Spring cleaning time is here again, and a great opportunity to clean and organize your living spaces.

Here are some great tips to freshen up your home and make is sparkle:

Wipe off a dirty faucet.

To get rid of lime buildup, make a paste of 1 teaspoon vinegar and 2 tablespoons salt. Apply to sink fixtures and rub with a cloth.

Tidy up a toilet.

Pour a cup or more of diluted white distilled vinegar into the bowl. Let sit several hours or overnight. Scrub well with a toilet brush and flush.

Eliminate odors.

Swab plastic containers with a cloth dampened with vinegar.

Freshen up the fridge.

Clean the shelves and walls with a solution of half water and half vinegar.

Battle litter-box odor.

Cat litter can leave behind an unwelcome smell. Eliminate it by pouring a half-inch of white distilled vinegar into the empty litter box. Let stand for 20 minutes, then rinse with cold water.

Steam away a microwave mess.

Fill a small bowl with equal parts hot water and vinegar, and place it in the microwave on high for 5 minutes. As the steam fills the microwave, it loosens the mess, making clean up a breeze.

Remove wax.

If you get melted candle wax on your wood furniture or floors, gently wipe it away with a cloth soaked in a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water.

Erase crayon.

If your kids get crayon marks on the walls or floor, dip a toothbrush in white vinegar and gently scrub. The vinegar breaks down the wax, making for an inexpensive, nontoxic way to clean up after children.

Restore showerhead pressure.

If your shower-head gets clogged with mineral deposits, soak it for 15 minutes in a mixture of ½ cup vinegar and 1 quart water.

Another great do it at home cleaning solution is baking soda.  Baking soda is great to freshen up stale and stinky smells in the home.  

Here are some tips from Better Homes and Gardens for uses of baking soda around the house:

Stale-smelling sponges

Soak these kitchen staples in baking soda and water to freshen them up so you can use them a little longer.

Musty upholstery and carpets

Deodorize the soft, cushy places around your house by sprinkling surfaces with baking soda, letting it sit for 15 minutes, and then vacuuming it up.

Grimy toys

Naturally fight the effects of your little one's grubby hands by wiping them with a sponge dipped in a baking soda and water solution.

A mildew-y bathroom

Scrub your tub, tile, sink and shower curtain with a damp sponge and baking soda. Rinse to reveal gleaming surfaces.

A messy grill

Combat a summer's worth of cookout grime by sprinkling some baking soda on your grill-cleaning brush before you scrub away.

Finally, one of my favorite non chemical cleaning items is to use lemon.  Lemons are a natural, mild disinfectant, and a quick trip to the store and you have a powerful cleaning weapon with no worries about chemicals.

According to thekitchn.com, lemons are "nature's little hand scrubbers".  Here are some of their useful tips on how to use lemon in your spring cleaning:

Clean Wood Cutting Boards

Apply salt: Sprinkle the cutting board with coarse salt.

Scour the surface: Using a lemon half with the cut side down, scour the surface, squeezing slightly to release the lemon juice as you go.

Let sit, then scrape off: Let sit for 5 minutes, and then scrape the gray, dirty liquid into a small bowl using a bench scraper, and discard.

Rinse: Give the surface a final rinse with a clean wet sponge.

Continuing Education Classes

1/14/2021 (Permalink)

Upcoming Class!

Every year, SERVPRO of Elmhurst provides continuing education in the areas of water, fire and mold mitigation.  Education increases the opportunity for the community of professionals responsible for helping you when disaster strikes: The more you informed the community of first responders, the better able to help limit damage, save important personal belongings and control costs during a time of crisis.   

At SERVPRO of Elmhurst, we work with adjusters, insurance agents, real estate agents, brokers, home inspectors, and office professionals by providing state-sanctioned Ethics Classes. Raising the bar when it comes to how people are treated especially in the time of need to protect their homes and personal belongings is essential to the insurance claim process.

Our goal is to make it "Like it never even happened."  As a recent client said, "the whole clean up and insurance process was as painless as it could have been."

Check in with us on our upcoming classes. We are now offering virtual CE classes! 

Why choose us

1/14/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO

SERVPRO of LaGrange Park/ North Riverside specializes in storm and flood damage restoration. Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit the Berwyn, IL land area, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 708-240-4873

Toys for Tots

12/7/2020 (Permalink)

One of our marketing representatives Sabrina donating toys!

Toys for Tots is such a huge donation event that happens every year around Christmas time. The mission of the Marine Toys for Tots Program is to collect new unwrapped toys and distribute those toys to less fortunate children at Christmas. The primary goal is to help bring the joy of Christmas and send a message of hope to America's less fortunate children. 

In order to better execute the program, in 1991 the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation was created at the behest of the Marine Corps. It is an IRS recognized 501(c)(3) not-for-profit public charity group. It is governed by a board of directors, all of whom are veteran Marines and successful business leaders from throughout the nation. The foundation's professional staff is headquartered in the Cooper Center, which is located just outside of the Main Gate of Marine Corps Bass about 35 miles south of Washington D.C.. 

The Marine Toys for Tots Program collected and distributed 19 million toys to 7.3 million less fortunate children in the past year allowing them to experience the joy of Christmas and receive a message of hope that otherwise would not have been there. This community action program took place in over 800 communities covering all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands. 

We here at SERVPRO of Elmhurst, Arlington Heights/Prospect Heights, and Lagrange Park/N. Riverside, took part in helping donate over 30 toys to 15 different drop off locations this year. We want to help do our part in the community by giving children in need the feeling of joy on Christmas when it comes to unwrapping presents and seeing an awesome toy. This was such a humbling experience for our team, and cannot wait to take part again next year! 

Thermal Imaging

11/2/2020 (Permalink)

Finding the invisible.

SERVPRO has many tools they offer for their customers. I recently came across a new tool that was used to detect water, and it was our thermal imaging camera our crew has. The thermal temperature screening provides a range of solutions. 

Thermal cameras are important because they identify elevated body temperatures. In our case, it can show to us the level and amount of water that is in floors or walls that may not be noticeable because it is underneath. They are designed to detect and measure the invisible infrared radiation emanating from objects, frequently referred to as a "heat signature". The hotter an object is, the more radiation it releases. The thermal camera sensor array will detect infrared frequencies, converting the data to electronic signals, which can then be viewed as colored images that vary with the level of heat being emitted. 

Unknown water in a home can cause major damage that can cost you a lot down the road. With that being said, having our team come in with our thermal imaging will allow our team to get to the problem faster because we are able to see something that you may not. This is why here at SERVPRO, we always go by our saying of being "faster to any size disaster" .

Cleaning & Disinfecting for COVID-19

4/1/2020 (Permalink)

This is the product we use for the cleaning and disinfecting for COVID-19. We want to help do our part in stopping the spread of the virus!

Hello,

We have been out servicing 911 call centers, trucks, distribution warehouses and distribution offices that are keeping our stores stocked with supplies and know that our Police and Fire Departments also need to be out to protect our communities but also need to stay free from a spread of the SARS-CoV-2” COVID-19 .   

We here at SERVPRO wanted to let you all know that we are currently are open to help combat the spread of the virus.  SERVPRO, with direction from the CDC have put together protocol to deal with “SARS-CoV-2” COVID-19 pro-actively (pre-positive test) and reactively (post-positive test).

These general guidelines are broad in scope and are not-specific protocols. Any protocols from federal, state, local agencies, or an industrial hygienist would supersede these guidelines. A CAT system has been designed for the different calls as it relates to “SARS-CoV-2” COVID-19.

CAT1: Proactive cleaning only CAT2: Person under investigation (PUI) or possible exposure CAT3: Confirmed, positive case

The protocol for CAT 1 is attached along with the SDS sheets, Chemical information, approval forms and rates for the services. We know that it is ever changing at a rapid rate and is very volatile. If you are in need of any services please reach out to us and we will do our best to help answer any questions or perform any work.

CAT 2 and CAT 3 – Protocol:

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is closely monitoring an outbreak of respiratory illness caused by a novel (new) coronavirus (named “SARS-CoV-2”) that was first detected in Wuhan City, Hubei Province, China, and spread to dozens of countries throughout the world. This is an emerging, rapidly evolving situation and the CDC will provide updated information as it becomes available, in-addition to updated guidance.

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/organizations/cleaning-disinfection.html

Cleaning and Disinfection After Persons Suspected/Confirmed to Have COVID-19 Have Been in the Facility

Timing and location of cleaning and disinfection of surfaces

• At a school, daycare center, office, or other facility that does not house people overnight:
• It is recommended to close off areas used by the ill persons and wait as long as practical before beginning cleaning and disinfection to minimize potential for exposure to respiratory droplets. Open outside doors and windows to increase air circulation in the area. If possible, wait up to 24 hours before beginning cleaning and disinfection.
• Cleaning staff should clean and disinfect all areas (e.g., offices, bathrooms, and common areas) used by the ill persons, focusing especially on frequently touched surfaces.
• At a facility that does house people overnight:
• Follow Interim Guidance for US Institutions of Higher Education on working with state and local health officials to isolate ill persons and provide temporary housing as needed.
• It is recommended to close off areas used by the ill persons and wait as long as practical before beginning cleaning and disinfection to minimize potential for exposure to respiratory droplets. Open outside doors and windows to increase air circulation in the area. If possible, wait up to 24 hours before beginning cleaning and disinfection.
• In areas where ill persons are being housed in isolation, follow Interim Guidance for Environmental Cleaning and Disinfection for U.S. Households with Suspected or Confirmed Coronavirus Disease 2019. This includes focusing on cleaning and disinfecting common areas where staff/others providing services may come into contact with ill persons, but reducing cleaning and disinfection of bedrooms/bathrooms used by ill persons to as needed.
• In areas where ill persons have visited or used, continue routine cleaning and disinfection as in this guidance.

How to Clean and Disinfect

Surfaces

• If surfaces are dirty, they should be cleaned using a detergent or soap and water prior to disinfection.
• For disinfection, diluted household bleach solutions, alcohol solutions with at least 70% alcohol, and most common EPA-registered household disinfectants should be effective.
• Diluted household bleach solutions can be used if appropriate for the surface. Follow manufacturer’s instructions for application and proper ventilation. Check to ensure the product is not past its expiration date. Never mix household bleach with ammonia or any other cleanser. Unexpired household bleach will be effective against coronaviruses when properly diluted.
• Prepare a bleach solution by mixing:
• 5 tablespoons (1/3^rd cup) bleach per gallon of water or
• 4 teaspoons bleach per quart of water
• Products with EPA-approved emerging viral pathogens claims are expected to be effective against COVID-19 based on data for harder to kill viruses. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for all cleaning and disinfection products (e.g., concentration, application method and contact time, etc.).
• For soft (porous) surfaces such as carpeted floor, rugs, and drapes, remove visible contamination if present and clean with appropriate cleaners indicated for use on these surfaces. After cleaning:
• If the items can be laundered, launder items in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions using the warmest appropriate water setting for the items and then dry items completely.
• Otherwise, use products with the EPA-approved emerging viral pathogens claims (examples at this link) that are suitable for porous surfaces

Thank you for your time and stay safe.

We are still open!

4/1/2020 (Permalink)

We are still open during this pandemic, and want our customers to know we are here to help with whatever they may need!

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

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

Have Questions? Call SERVPRO of Elmhurst 630-758-1701

Residential Services

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

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

Commercial Services

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

What To Know About the SERVPRO Claim Inventory Service

1/22/2020 (Permalink)

The electronic inventory system allows the restoration team to compile the list as they go

Many Reasons You May Find the Electronic Claim Inventory

When you have a business in Berwyn, IL, that has gone through storm or fire damage you may choose to contact your local SERVPRO for restoration. Not only can these professionals help with repairs, but they offer several services that may help with the insurance claim as well. You may find the electronic claim inventory system particularly useful for several reasons

1. It Keeps a List of Damaged Items

One reason the inventory system is useful is the fact that it can keep a list of damaged items. Many times when filing a claim insurance agents require these lists so they can calculate the cost of the damages. The electronic inventory system allows the restoration team to compile the list as they go, making it easier to keep track of everything.

2. It Allows you to Access Information Electronically

The ability to access the information you need for your claim electronically, can help when it comes time to file the insurance claim. Electronic access cuts down the time it would normally take to contact your restoration team and ask for information. In addition to no longer needing to play phone tag, you won’t be interrupting the restoration work every time a question needs to be answered.

3. It Helps Track Progress

Another aspect you and your insurance agent may find useful is the fact that this system can help track the progress of the restoration. As your repair team completes tasks they can update the system to show what jobs have been completed and what repairs still need to be finished.
When it comes to making an insurance claim the inventory system offered by your local SERVPRO can help. This system can keep a list of damaged items, allow you to access your information electronically, and track the restoration process. All of these things may help with the claims process.

Goal Setting From Our SERVPRO Owner

1/14/2020 (Permalink)

So, next year before you go and set goals think about the bar. Have you set the bar high or have you thrown it on the ground?

Every year we set goals for ourselves that are just maybe too unrealistic. It is not that we don't want to achieve them but it is that "life gets in the way."

Is setting goals something we should all do or is it that we need to set higher expectations? Goals help us to gauge our place in life, but if we are on the correct path, don't they hold us back? People say without them we are just going to do what we need to get by. I think goal setting has brought us to where we are now, a country that just works enough to get by.

I set my goals as I have been taught and then stop and said: "what the heck am I doing?"

The goals I listed out were:

Work out with my kids!

Growth of the company!

Spend more time with my wife!

Organize the garage!

Landscape the yard!

All of these are goals that you can achieve but one directly affects the other. If I reach my goal of working out with my kids, it means that I have to be home in time to work out with them prior to them having to eat dinner, shower, and study. This means that I might have less time Monday - Friday at work to reach my second goal which is to grow the company. Then, in turn, it means that I might have to work weekends making the third goal a total disaster. I don't need that to happen, so this better work.

So, why do I do this every year?

Oh, yeah! To make sure I stay on task and grow myself, or at least that is what I have been taught over the past 45 years of my life.

Think about it, has no one ever challenged goal setting? 45 years is a long time and I think of all of the thought processes that have been changed. So, I say stop setting goals and start raising the bar on how you should live your life. If you have kids, work out with them. Show them that taking care of your body is a good thing, we only have one! Grow your business each and every year by doing what you need to do! Be present and make sure that you hire the A players. Spend time with the ones you love and dammit keep up with your yard work and housekeeping. Make a schedule and follow it. Set the bar high and keep it there. Quite looking to give yourself a way out.

I know this might be a waste of your time but I think this is an area of business/ life that we don't spend enough time on. Look at other countries and they spend a month of each year and the company they work for is still in business, grows each year, has a lower divorce rate, well-organized homes, and minimal and healthy landscaping. Believe it or not, that is a goal every year for them without calling it a goal. Since it is expected it just happens. I fully understand that we are not other countries but wouldn't it be nice to have more vacation time, family time and less stuff to take care of? I think they do that by making sure they communicate better, set higher standards and keep the want clutter down to a minimum. Raise your expectations and you will never have to set another goal again. You could be more tomorrow then you are today if you really think about what I am saying.

So, next year before you go and set goals think about the bar. Have you set the bar high or have you thrown it on the ground? A bar on the ground is quite easy to get over and it really does not involve any skill.

Commercial Fire_4_Business Tips for Fire Preparedness

12/31/2019 (Permalink)

A contingency plan needs to be clearly communicated

Commercial Fire_4_Business Tips for Fire Preparedness

As a successful business owner in Broadview, IL, you strive to be prepared for anything. When it comes to a fire breaking out, just having alarms and extinguishers is not enough. A fire contingency plan is a well-thought plan catered specifically to your business to ensure the safety of everyone on-site. Establishing a plan may also reduce the damage to a structure, speeding up the fire damage restoration process.

Establish Specific Roles

Along with establishing and mapping an evacuation plan, which should be posted throughout the building, it’s important that people completely understand what to do in case of an emergency. As part of the plan, assign key roles to specific people to help guide a smooth evacuation. These roles may include:

Assign one person to be the overall point person for planning, preparing and instigating the plan. This person should also be responsible for conducting a headcount at a determined safe location.
Since no one knows when a fire may break out, the main fire chief should have an assistant. They work closely with the main person to understand protocols. If both are on-site, the assistant can take responsibility for alerting employees and calling 911.
Depending on the size of the business, route guides should be available to ensure that set evacuation paths are clear and people can calmly exit the premises.
For businesses with multiple floors, assign a monitor to each floor to verify the area has been cleared.

Cover all the Bases

A contingency plan needs to be clearly communicated. Along with taking the time to ensure each employee knows how to use emergency equipment, it is also important to test the plan. Just like a school drill, businesses should conduct a fake emergency evacuation to ensure it works and see areas that may need improvement.
A contingency plan provides peace of mind that your most valuable assets, your people, will know exactly what to do in case of an emergency. Take the time to prepare and communicate to ensure your plan works.

Will Insurance Pay For Mold Remediation?

11/27/2019 (Permalink)

Does your insurance company cover mold damage?

Will Insurance Pay For Mold Remediation?

If you notice fungus growth, it's best to eliminate it quickly, using the professional services of SERVPRO. These specialists have the equipment and knowledge to assist in the cleanup process. Restoration costs can add up quickly, though, and you're probably wondering whether your homeowner's insurance can help pay the bill. Sometimes it does, and sometimes it won't. You'll want to review your policy and speak with your insurance adjuster. 

We Specialize in Flooded Basement Cleanup and Restoration!

3/26/2019 (Permalink)

A basement can flood at any time, although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall. Basements are inherently prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of a building and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level. There are a number of reasons why your  basement could flood, including:

• A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe
• Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home
• Storm sewer backup
• Sanitary sewer backup
• Foundation drainage failure
• Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure
• And many more

Have Questions about Basement Flooding?

If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can jeopardize your health and safety, and cause severe damage to your home’s structure. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.

The bottom line: a flooded basement can jeopardize your health, safety, and your home’s integrity. It’s worth making a call to SERVPRO of LaGrange Park/North Riverside and let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. We have earned the trust of hundreds of homeowners, business owners, and property professionals.

We are Flooded Basement Specialists:

• We are Available 24 hours/7 days per week
• We’re a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies
• We Bill The Insurance Directly – One Less Thing For You To Worry About
• Our Technicians are Highly-Trained  in Water Restoration Techniques
• We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards
• Advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment

Basement Flooded? Call Us Today – We’re Ready To Help 708-240-4873.

24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

3/26/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of LaGrange Park/North Riverside is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of LaGrange Park/North Riverside has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

• Your name and contact information
• Your insurance information (if applicable)
• The street address of the water-damaged home or business
• When did the flooding or water damage occur?
• What caused the water damage (if known)?
• Is there electricity available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO of LaGrange Park/North Riverside

SERVPRO of LaGrange Park/North Riverside specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

When Storms or Floods hit SERVPRO is ready!

3/26/2019 (Permalink)

Our highly trained crews are ready to respond 24/7 to storm or flood damage in LaGrange Park/ North Riverside

SERVPRO of LaGrange Park/ North Riverside specializes in storm and flood damage restoration. Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit the Berwyn, IL land area, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 708-240-4873

What Positions SERVPRO as a Top Choice for Businesses Needing Emergency Recovery?

3/25/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is a national brand.

What Makes SERVPRO A Top Choice For Emergency Recovery Businesses?

The most urgent situations require only the best possible response and remedy. This is why you can’t afford to settle for anyone other than SERVPRO when your office experiences a flood, fire or mold infestation. There are other groups in Riverside, IL you could consider for cleanup and restoration help. It’s difficult to find any team that can stack up to the skills, experience and qualifications of a SERVPRO franchise.

What’s on the Resume?

Every disaster relief organization will tout its services as the best and as the place you should call when you have immediate cleanup needs in your office. Here are some top reasons SERVPRO should be your first and only call for a recovery company:

• They’re locally owned.
• They have vast resources and support.
• The technicians are qualified and skilled.
• The technicians use state-of-the-art equipment and techniques.

The Local Connection

SERVPRO is a national brand. No matter where you go in the U.S., you can find a SERVPRO franchise ready to help in emergencies large and small. There’s also a team in your own backyard that understands your needs and that is close enough to respond within a couple of hours or less. The local office has the backing of company headquarters, which can send additional supplies and technicians to the scene if necessary.

The Right Stuff

An ordinary cleanup crew with average skills and tools won’t cut it for you. You should expect excellence, and you’ll get it with this specialized group of restoration experts. The technicians are certified and qualified to tackle any task you have, no matter how complex or complicated it may be. Best of all, the team will have your office looking as close to perfect as possible, ready for you to resume normal operations.

Now that you know about the SERVPRO franchise in your area, keep their number and website handy. If disaster strikes, you know where to turn.

Restoring Your Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event

3/20/2019 (Permalink)

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

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

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

About SERVPRO of LaGrange Park/North Riverside

SERVPRO of LaGrange Park/North Riverside specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Our Highly Trained Restoration Specialists Can Restore Your Home

3/20/2019 (Permalink)

We are an IICRC Certified Firm

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

IICRC Certified Firms must

• Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.

• Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.

• Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.

• Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.

• Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.

The IICRC Develops The Standards For The Restoration Industry

The IICRC has been the driving force in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation. These IICRC standards take years to develop and require the coordination of experts in the field: manufacturers, industry organizations, insurance professionals, training schools, contractors, and public health professionals.

Every five years, the standards are reviewed and updated. The water damage restoration field changes rapidly with advancements in technology and science, and therefore the standards must evolve to keep pace.

About SERVPRO of LaGrange Park/North Riverside

SERVPRO of LaGrange Park/North Riverside specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: from initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Spring Cleaning Time Is Here Again

3/20/2019 (Permalink)

Spring cleaning time is here again, and a great opportunity to clean and organize your living spaces.

Here are some great tips to freshen up your home and make is sparkle:

Wipe off a dirty faucet.

To get rid of lime buildup, make a paste of 1 teaspoon vinegar and 2 tablespoons salt. Apply to sink fixtures and rub with a cloth.

Tidy up a toilet.

Pour a cup or more of diluted white distilled vinegar into the bowl. Let sit several hours or overnight. Scrub well with a toilet brush and flush.

Eliminate odors.

Swab plastic containers with a cloth dampened with vinegar.

Freshen up the fridge.

Clean the shelves and walls with a solution of half water and half vinegar.

Battle litter-box odor.

Cat litter can leave behind an unwelcome smell. Eliminate it by pouring a half-inch of white distilled vinegar into the empty litter box. Let stand for 20 minutes, then rinse with cold water.

Steam away a microwave mess.

Fill a small bowl with equal parts hot water and vinegar, and place it in the microwave on high for 5 minutes. As the steam fills the microwave, it loosens the mess, making clean up a breeze.

Remove wax.

If you get melted candle wax on your wood furniture or floors, gently wipe it away with a cloth soaked in a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water.

Erase crayon.

If your kids get crayon marks on the walls or floor, dip a toothbrush in white vinegar and gently scrub. The vinegar breaks down the wax, making for an inexpensive, nontoxic way to clean up after children.

Restore showerhead pressure.

If your shower-head gets clogged with mineral deposits, soak it for 15 minutes in a mixture of ½ cup vinegar and 1 quart water.

Another great do it at home cleaning solution is baking soda.  Baking soda is great to freshen up stale and stinky smells in the home.  

Here are some tips from Better Homes and Gardens for uses of baking soda around the house:

Stale-smelling sponges

Soak these kitchen staples in baking soda and water to freshen them up so you can use them a little longer.

Musty upholstery and carpets

Deodorize the soft, cushy places around your house by sprinkling surfaces with baking soda, letting it sit for 15 minutes, and then vacuuming it up.

Grimy toys

Naturally fight the effects of your little one's grubby hands by wiping them with a sponge dipped in a baking soda and water solution.

A mildew-y bathroom

Scrub your tub, tile, sink and shower curtain with a damp sponge and baking soda. Rinse to reveal gleaming surfaces.

A messy grill

Combat a summer's worth of cookout grime by sprinkling some baking soda on your grill-cleaning brush before you scrub away.

Finally, one of my favorite non chemical cleaning items is to use lemon.  Lemons are a natural, mild disinfectant, and a quick trip to the store and you have a powerful cleaning weapon with no worries about chemicals.

According to thekitchn.com, lemons are "nature's little hand scrubbers".  Here are some of their useful tips on how to use lemon in your spring cleaning:

Clean Wood Cutting Boards

Apply salt: Sprinkle the cutting board with coarse salt.

Scour the surface: Using a lemon half with the cut side down, scour the surface, squeezing slightly to release the lemon juice as you go.

Let sit, then scrape off: Let sit for 5 minutes, and then scrape the gray, dirty liquid into a small bowl using a bench scraper, and discard.

Rinse: Give the surface a final rinse with a clean wet sponge.

About SERVPRO of LaGrange Park/North Riverside

SERVPRO of LaGrange Park/North Riverside specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.