Recent Posts
The Critical Role of Biohazard Cleanup in Ensuring Safety
4/11/2024 (Permalink)
When faced with biohazardous situations, whether from trauma scenes, sewage backups, or chemical spills, it's essential to prioritize the safety and well-being of everyone involved. At SERVPRO of SE Summit County / Lake Township, we understand the importance of swift and thorough biohazard cleanup to mitigate risks and restore affected areas to a safe condition.
Biohazards pose serious health threats due to the presence of harmful substances such as bloodborne pathogens, bacteria, viruses, and other contaminants. Attempting to clean up these situations without proper training, equipment, and protective gear can result in further contamination and potential health hazards.
Our team of certified technicians is trained to handle biohazard cleanup with professionalism, compassion, and attention to detail. We follow industry-leading protocols and safety standards to ensure the effective removal, disinfection, and disposal of biohazardous materials.
By entrusting SERVPRO of SE Summit County / Lake Township with your biohazard cleanup needs, you can rest assured that your property will be restored to a safe and sanitary condition promptly and efficiently. Don't compromise on safety – contact us for expert biohazard cleanup services today.
The Importance of Storm Damage Mitigation: Protecting Your Property Before, During, and After a Storm
4/11/2024 (Permalink)
Storms can wreak havoc on homes and businesses, causing extensive damage and disruption to daily life. From heavy rains and flooding to high winds and hail, the effects of severe weather can be devastating. That's why proactive storm damage mitigation is crucial in safeguarding your property and minimizing the impact of these natural disasters.
Before a storm hits, it's essential to take preventive measures such as:
Securing Loose Items: Secure outdoor furniture, equipment, and other loose items to prevent them from becoming projectiles in strong winds.
Clearing Gutters and Drains: Ensure that gutters and drains are clear of debris to allow for proper water drainage and reduce the risk of flooding.
Reinforcing Windows and Doors: Install storm shutters or board up windows and doors to protect against flying debris and wind damage.
During a storm, prioritize safety above all else. Stay indoors, away from windows, and follow any evacuation orders issued by local authorities.
After the storm passes, assess the damage and take immediate action to mitigate further loss:
Tarping and Board-Up: Cover damaged roofs and openings with tarps and boards to prevent additional water intrusion and secure the property.
Water Extraction and Drying: Remove standing water and initiate drying procedures to prevent mold growth and structural damage.
Structural Repairs: Promptly repair damaged roofs, walls, and windows to restore the integrity of the building and prevent further deterioration.
At SERVPRO of SE Summit County / Lake Township, we specialize in storm damage mitigation and restoration services. Our experienced team is available 24/7 to respond quickly to emergencies and help you navigate the aftermath of a storm. Don't wait until it's too late – contact us for expert storm damage mitigation and restoration solutions.
Commercial Job Sites: Streamlining Restoration Processes for Business Continuity
4/11/2024 (Permalink)
When disaster strikes a commercial property, whether it's a fire, water damage, or mold infestation, the impact can be far-reaching, affecting operations, revenue, and reputation. That's why efficient and effective restoration services are essential to minimize downtime and ensure business continuity.
At SERVPRO of SE Summit County / Lake Township, we specialize in commercial restoration services tailored to meet the unique needs of businesses. Here's how we streamline restoration processes for commercial job sites:
Rapid Response: We understand the urgency of restoring commercial properties, which is why we offer 24/7 emergency response. Our swift action helps minimize the extent of damage and reduces downtime for businesses.
Comprehensive Services: From water extraction and drying to fire damage cleanup and mold remediation, we offer a full range of restoration services to address any commercial disaster scenario.
Project Management: Our experienced project managers oversee every aspect of the restoration process, coordinating with insurance adjusters, contractors, and other stakeholders to ensure a smooth and efficient workflow.
Minimizing Disruption: We strive to minimize disruption to your business operations by working around your schedule and implementing strategies to allow for continued business activities whenever possible.
Quality Assurance: We adhere to industry-leading standards and protocols to deliver high-quality restoration services that meet or exceed your expectations.
Communication: We keep you informed every step of the way, providing regular updates on the progress of the restoration project and addressing any concerns or questions you may have.
At SERVPRO of SE Summit County / Lake Township, we understand the importance of restoring commercial properties quickly and efficiently. Trust us to get your business back up and running smoothly after a disaster strikes. Contact us today for expert commercial restoration services.
Know the Facts: National & Ohio-Specific Fire Damage Statistics
4/11/2023 (Permalink)
The unpredictable nature of fires can lead to so much devastation and loss for your home or business.
According to the National Fire Protection Association, there are around 346,800 house fires per year causing on average 2,620 fatalities.
Understanding the facts when it comes to fires can help you to better prepare your family and employees in case of disaster.
General Fire Facts & Stats
- Cooking is the leading cause of house fires, followed by:
- Heating
- Electrical Systems & Equipment
- Candles
- Smoking
- In 2020, fire and lightning insurance claims had the highest average payout of $77,340.
- On average, across the US, a fire department responded to a fire every 23 seconds in 2021.
- In 2021, there were 1,353,500 fires reported, including residential and non-residential structures.
- In 2020, per 1,000 fires, the national average was 2 deaths and 8 injuries.
Ohio Fire Facts & Stats
- Ohio has the 7th most fatal home fires per capita in relation to the other 50 states, with Texas being the first.
- Smoking is the top cause of fire deaths in the state of Ohio, making up 20% of fatalities.
It's difficult and scary to imagine your home or business experiencing a fire. It can be hard to determine where to start when a disaster like this occurs.
If your home or business falls victim to a fire, SERVPRO of SE Summit/Lake County is "here to help." Our experienced technicians handle the care and restoration of your property and its contents. We handle the cleanup and the reconstruction, so you don't have to worry about juggling multiple companies.
If you find yourself in need of fire damage restoration, give us a call today!
Know the Facts: National & Ohio-Specific Water Damage Statistics
4/11/2023 (Permalink)
We are "here to help" handle your home or business's water damage restoration needs!
It's no secret that April showers are the start of Ohio's rainy season. Despite the name, April is only the 4th rainiest month in Ohio, with May, June, and the rainiest, July rounding out the top three.
As we work our way through the wet season, it's important to understand the facts of water and storm damage.
National Water Damage Facts & Stats
- 14,000 people in the US are affected by water damage every day.
- The average insurance claim to repair a water damaged home is $11,605.
- 99% of US counties experienced a flood from 1996-2019.
- 98% of US homes will experience water damage in their basements at least once.
- Even the smallest leak can increase the average water bill by 10%.
- In 2020, almost 20% of home insurance claims were due to water damage and freezing.
Ohio Water Damage Facts & Stats
- In Ohio, 540,863 properties have more than a 26% chance of being affected by severe flooding in the next 30 years.
- In 2021, at least 142 people died in flooding incidents, 64 of which were driving.
Water damage, whether it be from flooding or a storm, can be a difficult process to deal with. Luckily, SERVPRO of SE Summit/Lake County is equipped to handle all of your water damage restoration needs! From the drying process to reconstruction, we work with all insurances to get your home or business looking "like it never even happened."
How to Handle Spring Weather in the Akron Area
4/10/2023 (Permalink)
We're "here to help" with whatever Mother Nature throws at us this spring!
Preparation Before a Storm
Stay Safe During the Next Big Storm
Depending on the person, you may either love to watch a storm roll in, or you may find yourself stricken with anxiety as dark clouds form at the horizon. No matter what end of the spectrum you fall on, knowing what to do to stay safe during a storm can benefit anyone. Keeping yourself and your loved ones safe during a storm is the top priority, so here are a few tips to help you the next time a storm is on the radar:
- Remain indoors. This can be inside your home or the home of a neighbor if need be. If you are outdoors, seek shelter at a local business, or a public restroom. Public restrooms in parks are typically built to be storm proof. Should there be no other options, sheltering in your car should keep you safe and dry as you wait out the storm.
- Stay away from windows. The safest place to be during a storm is a basement. If your house doesn’t have a basement, bathrooms are a good choice as well.
- Try to stay away from appliances. Avoid showering or talking on a wired phone during a storm. Lightening can travel through plumbing fixtures or home wiring, so avoid using your washer and dryer during a storm. Lightning strikes can cause those appliances to short and catch fire.
- Once the storm has passed, be cautious when walking around, especially outside. Be alert for down powerlines and tree branches. If you smell gas, be sure to contact authorities immediately.
Is Your Home Prepared for the Next Storm?
Each year, thunderstorms alone cause approximately $15 billion in property damage. Summer and spring seasons are the most vulnerable to these destructive and frightening storms.
There are several ways to prepare your property:
- Always have an emergency kit with these items that you probably already have in your house: flashlight, battery powered weather radio, extra batteries to fit each electronic, non-perishable foods, lots of bottled water, can opener, first aid kit, fire extinguisher, blankets, extra clothes, sturdy shoes or boots, clock or watch, whistle to signal for help, and any important personal items and documents.
- Know the safest structure of your home to go to during a severe storm such as a basement, underground cellar, or even the most inner part of your home away from windows.
- Get routine maintenance on your roof and the foundation.
- Cut down any unwanted trees or limbs and get your trees trimmed before summer storm season. Trees and branches can fall on your property and damage the siding, windows, and roof.
- Contact your insurance company to be more familiar with your policy. Most home insurers do not cover flooding damage.
- Keep all expensive and favored possessions off the floor and away from low ground in case of flooding.
- Keep all patio furniture, grills, etc in doors before a summer storm hits. Do not forget to park your vehicles in the garage.
- Finally, take those summer storm warnings and alerts seriously, especially tornado warnings. Tornadoes can lead to total property loss and even death.
How to Handle the Aftermath
After the Storm: What You Can Do
A storm has just blown through, but thankfully you and your family took precautions and no one was harmed. However, there is still a chance something happened in your home, whether it be flooding, backed up sewage, or damage from falling debris. If there’s any major damage to your SE Summitor Lake Countyhome, the best thing you can do is call the experts at SERVPRO of SE Summit/Lake County and let the professionals clean up, but there are still some things you can do yourself if you feel up to it.
- Clean up sticks and branches that may have fallen during the storm. This one is by far the easiest, and the branches can easily be thrown away, or used for something like firewood or compost. If a branch or tree has fallen against your house and caused damage, go ahead and call SERVPRO of SE Summit/Lake County to have it quickly, and expertly repaired.
- Dry out your house as soon as possible. After a storm, if water has gotten inside your home, it will very quickly cause mold to grow, which will create many issues down the road. It’s best to clean up any standing water and dry off surfaces that may grow mold.
- If you see any damage involving sewage, live wires, or possible gas leaks, don’t try and fix it yourself! Immediately call the experts at SERVPRO ofSE Summit/Lake County to solve this issue for you.
We Handle Flood & Storm Damage
SERVPRO of SE Summit/Lake County, 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
SERVPRO of SE Summit/Lake County is ready when a storm strikes. Our resources can handle a small or large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1700 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 (330) 249-7741
Restoring Your Home in the Akron Area
11/27/2022 (Permalink)
We take care of your home restoration needs!
SERVPRO of SE Summit/Lake Twp 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 SE Summit/Lake Twp
SERVPRO of SE Summit/Lake Twp 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 and make it "like it never even happened."
How We Handle Mold
11/27/2022 (Permalink)
We handle even your largest mold remediation needs!
If you smell something musty in your home in Summit County, you may have a mold problem, even if it is not immediately visible. Mold damage can occur on almost any surface, particularly if it is porous. All it needs to thrive is moisture and something organic to feed on. Here are some places to look for mold and tips on how to keep these places fungus-free.
Where Is Mold hiding?
Mold or mildew growth may happen anywhere there is too much moisture. Common places in your home where mold could grow include:
- Drywall
- Carpet
- Furniture
- Insulation
- Draperies
An excessive amount of dust can also lead to mold growth. A surface covered in a layer of dust is like a hotel stay for airborne mold spores. This dust layer gives these spores a place to attach and grow. Regular dusting can help keep fungus growth at bay.
How Is It Prevented?
Mold is everywhere. It gets inside your home by attaching to clothing, hair, pets and shoes. Once the spores are in this confined space, they start to look for a place to land and grow.
The most effective way to prevent mold growth is by getting rid of the excess moisture in your home. Try to keep humidity levels between 40-50%. You can measure the humidity in your home with a device from your local hardware store. Make sure rooms that are prone to higher humidity, such as bathrooms and the kitchen, are properly ventilated for good air flow. When you notice a leak, call water remediation specialists immediately to dry and restore the area. Controlling moisture is vital to controlling the spread of mold.
As the homeowner, you play a key role in avoiding mold damage . Rid your home of excess moisture, and when you cannot, inspect all the surfaces where mold can grow to catch it at its beginning stages. By being vigilant about prevention, you can protect the air quality in your home. If you have concerns call SERVPRO of SE Summit County and Lake Township to have one of their experts give you a professional evaluation.
How to Handle Mold
If you see visible mold, do not disturb it. You can inadvertently spread the mold infestation throughout your home. When mold is disturbed, the mold can release microscopic mold spores, which become airborne and can circulate inside your home.
What to Do:
- Stay out of affected areas.
- Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
- Contact SERVPRO of SE Summit County/Lake Township for mold remediation services.
What Not to Do:
- Don’t touch or disturb the mold.
- Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.
- Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself.
- Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.
About Our Mold Remediation Services
SERVPRO of SE Summit County/Lake Township specializes in mold cleanup and restoration. In fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business. Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.
In addition to serving this community, we also are proud to serve communities of the Barberton and Norton area through SERVPRO of Barberton/Norton!
If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 330-249-7741
What Does it Mean to be SERVPRO Certified Clean?
11/26/2022 (Permalink)
Let us help you get back to business
The global COVID-19 pandemic has changed what it means to be clean, and we’ve developed a program to help your business meet the new higher standard of clean that is now expected, especially as new strains and new viral pathogens arise.
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is a defensive cleaning program we’re offering to businesses and commercial locations to address any viral pathogen concerns. This cleaning program goes well beyond janitorial or carpet cleaning. By choosing Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you, your employees, your customers, and your community can rest assured that you’ve selected a higher cleaning standard – you are Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.
Extensive training and specialized products
As the #1 choice in cleanup and restoration*, we stand on more than 50 years of experience and expertise to help your business become Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned. Beyond fire & water, SERVPRO professionals are trained and experienced in biohazard decontamination and chemical spills – always adhering to the cleaning and decontamination standards set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and local authorities.
From formulating and creating our proprietary cleaning products, like SERVPROXIDE, at our headquarters in Gallatin, TN, to taking the utmost care while disinfecting, we will ensure you and your business are set up to inspire consumer confidence as the economy continues to reopen.
3 C’s – Consult, Clean, and Certify
You want a partner who has developed an industry leading, proprietary training program, cleaning solutions, and remediation processes over decades. We’ve cleaned up some of the most challenging biohazards imaginable. Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned reflects our unique experiences and capabilities. The program is grounded with our unique 3 C’s: Consult, Clean, and Certify.
- Consult – Every business is different, which is why you’ll be assigned a Cleaning Protocol Consultant, who understands your business, and will create a cleaning program to meet your specific needs. This program will be developed based on your business type, size of space, amount of high frequency touch points, foot traffic and congestion points.
- Clean – Based on your specific business needs, your location will undergo a thorough, deep clean, using exclusive cleaning products. Our employees have years of experience, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform. Cleanup procedures generally include the cleaning of porous and non-porous surfaces, disinfecting of non-porous surfaces, cleaning and disinfecting equipment, tools, and/or supplies used for cleanup process, and disposal of hazardous materials.
- Certify - Once your business location has been Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you will gain access to proprietary signage, digital emblems, and other collateral that communicates that you’ve selected a higher standard of clean available to help protect your employees and customers. And because we add the day, month, and year to that proprietary stamp of clean, your guests will know that not only did you choose Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, but that your location is being cleaned regularly at this standard.
Call today for a Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation
Call SERVPRO of SE Summit / Lake Township today at 330-786-0505 for your Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation.
* #1 Choice in cleanup & restoration based Commercial Attitude & Usage Tracking study. Polling 816 commercial business decision makers on first choice for future needs related to cleanup & restoration work. Study conducted by C&R Research: October 2019
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned means professionally trained SERVPRO franchises perform the requested cleaning, sanitizing and disinfection services according to proprietary SERVPRO protocols and recognized industry and CDC standards with EPA approved cleaning products to deliver a SERVPRO certified cleaning experience. Each SERVPRO franchise is independently owned and operated.
SERVPRO's Dedication to Being Green
11/26/2022 (Permalink)
SERVPRO is not only dedicated to helping restore your home or business, but we're dedicated to doing it in the greenest way possible.
Everyone knows that SERVPRO is Green. Our vehicles are green, our restoration equipment is green, our employees wear green. SERVPRO of SE Summit/Lake Twp takes it one step further. Our teams has access and utilizes “green” environmentally friendly chemicals!
SERVPRO has the option to use Carpet & Upholstery Green Clean (chemical #251) on all commercial and residential properties. This product is pH Neutral, biodegradable, and contains zero phosphates, solvents, dyes, or fragrances.
SERVPRO also has access to All Surface Green Clean (product #250). This product is pH neutral, contains no dyes or fragrances, and is non-toxic / phosphate free. All Surface Green Clean is volatile organic compound compliant and rapidly biodegradable.
Lastly, SERVPRO uses the Window Green Clean (Product #249). This glass cleaner is environmentally friendly, volatile organic compound compliant, rapidly biodegradable, and is premixed with soft water to eliminate spotting and streaking.
For more information about “green” products, call us at 330-786-0505 or visit http://www.epa.gov/dfe/
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