Getting the Office Ready for Winter Storms

11/4/2022 (Permalink)

When the weather forecast predicts a serious winter storm, keep these preparation tips in mind for your small business:

• Communicate with your employees: Have a predetermined way to communicate with all employees to let them know if the store or office will be open that day.
• Let customers know if and when you’re closing: If you will be closing early due to a blizzard, or not opening at all, use social media channels to relay that information. If you have a store-front, make sure to post a sign notifying your customers of your closing as well.
• Salt the sidewalks: If you plan for your small business to be open during the winter storm, be sure to brine or salt the sidewalks to prevent ice from forming and causing slippery situations.
• Keep an eye on power lines: If you see a downed power line near your business, call 911 immediately and do not go near it, it could still live with electricity. Try to prevent any customers from getting near it as well.
• Consider buying a generator: Have a generator for any important devices or products needing electricity, like walk-in coolers and food storage.
• Check on your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors: Regularly replacing batteries for smoke and carbon monoxide detectors is a good practice, and especially important if you will be using a generator. Tip: if you’re using a portable generator, never keep it indoors. They produce high levels of carbon monoxide and could cause harm to those inside.
• Have mailing back-up plans: Think about what things you rely on the mail service to provide. If you have payroll checks or other important documents coming in the mail, and the roads are too bad for mail to be transported, do you have other ways of accessing them? Contact whoever is sending your important documents to ensure that mail interruptions will not cause disaster in your small business.

Winter Emergency Kit for a Small Business

In extreme cases of winter storms, you and your employees may become snowed in at work, or need to wait out the storm. In areas where heavy snowfall is typical, consider making a winter emergency kit for your small business to ensure winter workplace safety. These items, provided by FEMA include:

• A hand-crank or battery-charged radio 
• Water and food snacks 
• A whistle or noisemaker that can be used to signal for help 
• Copies of important business documents, all kept in a waterproof and fireproof container. 
• Flashlights and/or candles First-aid kit Moist towelettes or hand sanitizer 
• Extra toiletries (including feminine hygiene products) 
• Cell phone chargers for all types of cellular devices (and/or portable cell phone power banks or chargers)

Don't forget your pet's in an emergency

2/25/2022 (Permalink)

PET DISASTER KIT

Water: Keep at least three days of water specifically for your pets in addition to water you need for yourself and each member of your family.

Food: Keep at least three day’s supply of food I an airtight waterproof container.

Pet Food/ Water Bowels and a non-electric can opener.

Medicines and Medical Records: Keep and extra supply of medications your pet takes on a regular basis in a waterproof container, information on feeding schedules, medical conditions behavior problems and the name and number of your veterinarian.

First Aid Kit: Have a conversation with your veterinarian about the most appropriate items for your pets medical needs, Most kits should include cotton bandage rolls, bandages and tape and scissors, antibiotic ointment, flea and tick prevention, latex gloves, alcohol and saline solution.

Collar and ID Tags: Harness and leash, in the kit include and extra leash, collar or harness, and an extra set of ID tags with the pets name, your name and phone number and address.

Crate: Or other pet carrier. Have a safe, sturdy, comfortable carrier ready for transporting your pets. The crate should be big enough for your pets to stand, turn around and lie down.

Sanitation: Include pet litter, and a litter box if needed, newspapers, paper towels. Plastic trash bags and house hold bleach to help with your pet’s sanitation needs. You can use bleach as a disinfectant.

Photos: If you become separated from your pet during an emergency, a picture of your pet/pets will help you document ownership and will allow others to assist you in identifying your pet. / Include detailed information about the species, breed age, sex, color, and any distinguishing characteristics.

Familiar Items: Put favorite toys, treats, or bedding in the kit, familiar items can help reduce stress for your pet.

10 Christmas Light Safety Tips

11/30/2021 (Permalink)

1. Never leave your lights on unattended: Whether you’re running out for food, or playing outside with the kids, turn your Christmas lights off any time you will not be nearby. While this may seem like a pain, there are a variety of products that make it easy, like Christmas light timers and remote controls that turn your indoor and outdoor lights off with the touch of a button. If you’re prone to forgetting, try an automated timer for outdoor lighting that illuminates your decorations when it gets dark outside and turns them off at sunrise.
2. Consider using LED lights instead of incandescent lights: LED lights, while a bit more expensive, are a much safe option indoor and outdoor lighting. Because they produce very little heat, they are perfect for holiday decorations. They also last up to 25 times longer and use 75 percent less electricity.
3. Be mindful of where you place candles: There’s nothing like warm candlelight flickering away on a cozy Christmas night. However, candles aren’t the safest option — especially if you have kids or pets who are prone to accidentally knocking things over. Place lit candles above the reach of wandering hands and tails, and well out of the way of flammable materials like curtains or wrapping paper. To prevent possible burns and fires, try flameless candles instead.
4. Indoor and outdoor lights are not interchangeable: Though indoor lights can be cheaper, don’t use them as a substitute for outdoor lights. Indoor lights aren’t as sealed against moisture as their outdoor counterparts, making them unsafe for wet winter weather. If you’re not sure which type of lights you have, play it safe, and toss them and buy new ones.
5. Only use three light strands per outlet: The number of light strings you can connect together in sequence depends on both the strands’ wattage and the maximum watt capacity of the house circuit you plug them into. A good rule of thumb is to keep each outlet to three strands of lights or fewer. Also consider using a power strip with a built-in circuit breaker instead of your wall outlet for added protection.
6. Get rid of old lights
7. Securely fasten all outdoor light strings: Winter storms can easily catch and blow loose outdoor Christmas light strands, causing potential electrical hazards. Fasten your lighted decorations to firm objects like trees or walls to keep your lights secure. Also fasten indoor lights out of reach of pets and small children to avoid chewing mishaps that could result in accidental electrocution.
8. Avoid using electric lights on metallic trees: Shiny aluminum and tinsel Christmas trees can bring real sparkle to your holiday décor, but if you opt for a metallic tree, avoid using electric lights or decorations. The tree could easily become charged with electricity, giving a real “shock” to anyone who touches it.
9. Be smart when using extension cords: Outdoor lights can pose a safety risk when extension cords are low enough to become surrounded by pools of rain or melted snow. Keep the cords dry, and make sure to use surge protectors to minimize damage in case of voltage fluctuation.
10. Keep your Christmas tree from becoming a fire hazard: Christmas Trees are the leading cause of house fires during the holidays. While there are definitely benefits to a real tree, artificial trees are the safer choice. Most artificial trees are made with fire-resistant materials, making them fairly safe to light and decorate. If you opt for a real tree, make sure it’s fresh when you buy it and that you keep it well watered. Once your tree dries out, it is no longer safe to keep in your home and should be removed immediately.

Whether you go big or small with your Christmas decorations this season, protecting your home and family should be your number one priority. Follow these 10 Christmas light safety tips to have a happy, secure holiday.

DISASTER SUPPLY KIT

11/2/2021 (Permalink)

DISASTER SUPPLY KIT

  When there is a community disaster, you may need to be able to survive on your own for three days or more. This means having your own food, water, and emergency supplies.  The following checklist will assemble a disaster supply kit for each member of your family.

• A two week supply of water ( one gallon per day, per person in your household)
• A two week supply of non- perishable packaged or canned food
• A non- electric can opener and non- breakable eating and drinking utensils.
• One complete change of clothing for each person, sturdy work clothes, sturdy shoes, socks, extra underwear, and rain or snow gear.
• Towels, blankets, pillows and sleeping bags.
• First Aid kit that includes a first aid handbook,, adhesive tape, bandages, antibiotic ointments, rubbing alcohol, cotton balls, aspirin, spare glasses/ contact lens needs, medications, soap and thermometer.
• A battery powered radio, flashlight, or lanterns and extra batteries.
• Heating source, camp stove, or Canned Heat stove, extra fuel and matches.
• Credit cards, cash, car keys, birth certificates, social security cards, driver’s license, and important household documents.
• Special items for the elderly, infants, or disabled member of the family.
• Water purifying tablets, or household bleach.
• Paper towels and toilet paper.
• Emergency Car Kit that includes a battery powered radio, flashlight, lantern, extra batteries, blanket, jumper cables, fire extinguisher, First Aid kit with handbook, bottles of water, non- perishable food items, shovel, flares, spare tire, jack, crowbar, gasoline can, and a tire repair kit and a pump.

Insurance Services

11/2/2021 (Permalink)

Insurance Services

As a leader in fire and water cleanup and restoration, SERVPRO Franchise Professionals offer your insurance company an array of competitive advantages. Our goal is to restore both your customer’s property and their peace of mind through timely mitigation and adherence to IICRC standards. The result? Lower claims costs and satisfied customers – and that’s just the tip of the iceberg.

Why Choose SERVPRO: The SERVPRO Difference - SERVPRO Franchise Professionals are uniquely qualified to keep claims costs down while still providing the best services possible for your customers.

Large Loss Response: No Restoration Project Is Too Large Whether it’s a large commercial project or a major storm event, the SERVPRO Disaster Recovery Team can provide help quickly.

Training: From initial training at SERVPRO's Corporate Training Facility to IICRC certifications, SERVPRO Franchise Professionals are highly trained in property damage restoration.

Call SERVPRO Marine City/ Romeo Today: 586-336-7373 From initial training at SERVPRO's Corporate Training Facility to IICRC certifications, SERVPRO Franchise Professionals are highly trained in property damage restoration.

Carpets and Upholstery Cleaning

11/1/2021 (Permalink)

Carpets and Upholstery Cleaning

Even the highest-quality items can show soiling over time. Protect your investment by calling your local SERVPRO franchise professional to clean and maintain your carpet and upholstery.

Today's carpet and upholstery materials vary dramatically. SERVPRO offers a number of cleaning options to match any type of upholstery or carpet.

SERVPRO franchise professionals also offer a range of specialized cleaning methods:

• Bonnet Cleaning: A less aggressive method for short piled carpets.
• Hot Water Extraction: A deeper cleaning method for all carpet types.
• Deluxe Precondition and Rinse: Helps restore deeply soiled areas.
• Showcase Premier Cleaning: The most thorough cleaning method in the industry.
• Dry Cleaning: When color-fastness is an issue.

Preventative Maintenance

Carpets act as a filter, trapping dust, dirt, gases, animal hair, and other soils. All carpet manufacturers agree on actions you can take between carpet cleanings to increase the life span of your carpet.

IICRC states that 79% of soil in carpet is dry soil. Vacuuming is a key component to proper care and maintenance of carpet.

Preventative maintenance actions include: 

• Regular vacuuming
• Spot removal
• Pilating the carpet to prevent matting
• Moving furniture to change traffic patterns
• Using walk-off mats to limit the amount of soil tracked onto the carpet

·         Professional Cleaning

• Professional cleaning can address moderate and heavy soil conditions in your carpets. How often you’ll need professional cleaning depends on soil build-up, traffic, type and color of carpeting. A good rule of thumb would be to professionally clean your carpet every 12 months. The best advice is to clean carpets before they become totally saturated with soil. If you wait until carpets look really dirty, the carpets may never be restored to their former appearance. Dirt builds up in layers, and when a carpet looks dirty you are only seeing the dirt at the tips of the fibers. More dirt is hiding below the surface down near the base of the pile, causing damage to the carpet. When a carpet is saturated with dirt, the soil has penetrated crevices and has become firmly lodged.
• SERVPRO franchise professionals will get the job done right. For a cleaning backed by state-of-the-art equipment, over 50 years of experience and professionals trained to the highest standards, call us today

How to prepare the office for a winter storm

11/1/2021 (Permalink)

How to prepare the office for a winter storm

When the weather forecast predicts a serious winter storm, keep these winter preparation tips in mind for your small business:

• Communicate with your employees.Have a predetermined way to communicate with all employees to let them know if the store or office will be open that day.
• Let customers know if and when you’re closing.If you will be closing early due to a blizzard, or not opening at all, use social media channels to relay that information. If you have a store-front, make sure to post a sign notifying your customers of your closing as well.
• Salt the sidewalks.If you plan for your small business to be open during the winter storm, be sure to brine or salt the sidewalks to prevent ice from forming and causing slippery situations.
• Keep an eye on power lines.If you see a downed power line near your business, call 911 immediately and do not go near it, it could be still live with electricity. Try to prevent any customers from getting near it as well.
• Consider buying a generator. Have a generator for any important devices or products needing electricity, like walk-in coolers and food storage.
• Check on your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.Regularly replacing batteries for smoke and carbon monoxide detectors is a good practice, and especially important if you will be using a generator. Tip: if you’re using a portable generator, never keep it indoors. They produce high levels of carbon monoxide and could cause harm to those inside.
• Have mailing back-up plans. Think about what things you rely on the mail service to provide. If you have payroll checks or other important documents coming in the mail, and the roads are too bad for mail to be transported, do you have other ways of accessing them? Contact whoever is sending your important documents to ensure that mail interruptions will not cause disaster in your small business.

Winter emergency kit for a small business

In extreme cases of winter storms, you and your employees may become snowed in at work, or need to wait out the storm. In areas where heavy snowfall is typical, consider making a winter emergency kit for your small business to ensure winter workplace safety. These items, provided by FEMA include:

• A hand-crank or battery-charged radio 
• Water and food snacks 
• A whistle or noisemaker that can be used to signal for help 
• Copies of important business documents, all kept in a waterproof and fireproof container. 
• Flashlights and/or candles First-aid kit Moist towelettes or hand sanitizer 
• Extra toiletries (including feminine hygiene products) 
• Cell phone chargers for all types of cellular devices (and/or portable cell phone power banks or chargers)

Portable Space Heater Safety Tips

9/2/2021 (Permalink)

Space Heater Placement 

It's generally suggested that space heaters be placed at least 3 feet away from furniture, window treatments, bedding, clothing, rugs, and other combustibles.

These items can cause a risk of fire if they come in contact with a unit's electric heating element or too-hot surface.

Other Placement Tips

• Never sit or drape anything on top of a portable heater.
• In addition, be sure that the heater is placed on a hard, level surface.
• Review your owner's manual for specific instructions on your heater. 

• Safety Tips
• Look for Safety Features
• Today's portable heater models include a variety of safety features that help take a lot of the worry out of using them: 
• Overheat Protection
• Room heaters with overheat protection detect when internal components become too hot. When an unsafe temperature is detected, the switch automatically shuts off the unit to prevent overheating.
• Tip-Over Protection
• A heater equipped with a tip-over protection switch will automatically shut off if it's tipped over for any reason.
• Cool-Touch Housing
• Cool-touch housing prevents accidental burns by touching the exterior of a heater. This is particularly useful safety features, particularly in areas with active children or pets.

·         2. Plug Directly into an Outlet

• As a rule of thumb, plug a portable electric heater directly into an outlet with sufficient power capacity. Attaching an extension cord to the unit increases the chance of overheating, fires, and electrical shock injuries.

·         3. Regular Inspection and Maintenance

• Occasionally inspect your space heater, particularly when you first purchase it. Frequently clean and maintain it to ensure it's working safely.
• Wiping yours down will also help reduce the amount of dust and allergens that may be dispersed around your space. 

·         4. Shut Off and Unplug if Not in Use

• Upon leaving an area, turn off the portable space heater and unplug it. Many models, like Vornado heaters, feature programmable timers that can be used to program automatic on and off times for when you sleep or head to work.

·         5. Keep Heaters Away From Water

• Unless it is specifically designed for use in damp spaces, refrain from running a heater in a bathroom or a humid basement. Don't touch the heater if you are wet or have wet hands, as this increases the risk of electrical shock.

prepare your home for a fire

8/2/2021 (Permalink)

The 7 Ways to Prepare for a Home Fire

• Install the right number of smoke alarms.
• In new homes:The National Fire Alarm Code (NFPA 72) requires hard-wired, interconnected smoke alarms with battery back-up on every level of the home, outside each sleeping area, and inside each bedroom. Alarms must be wired together so that if one sounds, they all sound.
• In existing homes: If smoke alarms are not already in place, at a minimum install them on every level of the home and outside each sleeping area.If a fire occurs inside a bedroom, dangerous gases can cause heavier sleep. For the best protection, install interconnected smoke alarms in each bedroom and throughout the home. When one sounds, they all sound.
• Test them once a month and replace the batteries at least once a year.

• Teach children what a smoke alarm sounds like, and what to do when they hear one. 

• Ensure that all household members know two ways to escape from every room of your home and know the family meeting spot outside of your home.

• Establish a family emergency communications plan and ensure that all household members know who to contact if they cannot find one another.

• Practice escaping from your home at least twice a year. Press the smoke alarm test button or yell “Fire “to alert everyone that they must get out.

• Make sure everyone knows how to call 9-1-1.

• Teach household members to STOP, DROP and ROLL if their clothes should catch on fire. 

When should I clean my cellphone?

7/23/2021 (Permalink)

As Cleanliness becomes a top concern across the country, people everywhere are looking for the answer, but we all need to do our part in fostering healthy communities. A regular cleaning to disinfect germs from your phone can go a long way in looking out for the health and safety of your family and friends.

Experts recommend giving your cellphone a good wipe with a dry cloth whenever you come home from being out in public. This will help remove germs from the surface, but it won't kill them, which is why you should aim to disinfect the device every other day, or twice a week at the very least. 

HOW CAN I KEEP MY PHONE CLEAN?

The fact of the matter is that our phones go everywhere. No matter how often you disinfect your device, it’s going to be exposed to germs. But following these tips can help keep your phone clean and mitigate the spread of germs.

• Careful not to cross-contaminate: An easy way to spread germs is to touch your phone and then touch something else. And if that “something else” is food-related, you should be extra careful. Try printing out your recipes and leaving your phone in your pocket when you sit down for a meal.
• Where you go matters: Gyms, grocery stores, mass transit, any place where you’re touching the same surfaces as everybody else poses a potential hazard. Of course, it’s normal to need your phone in these situations, but just think about where your hands have been before you reach for it.
• Stay out of the bathroom: This involves the same principles as above but is important enough to call out on its own, considering many Americans admit to using their cellphones in the bathroom.

Sewage Cleanup and Restoration

5/26/2021 (Permalink)

Sewage backups should be considered an emergency since the water may contain viruses, bacteria, and other microbes that can cause serious illnesses. At SERVPRO Marine City/ Romeo, We have specialized training and equipment to quickly and safely clean contaminates like sewage.

There are three types of contaminated water:

Clean water:

CATEGORY 1:  Category 1 water is from a clean source like a broken water supply line or leaking faucet. If not treated quickly, this water can turn into category 2 or 3, depending on length of time, temperature, and contact with surrounding contaminants.

• Water from a clean source like a broken water line
• If left untreated, can degrade into category 2 or 3

CATAGORY 2: “Gray Water”

 Water is contaminated and could cause discomfort or illness. Examples include washing machine overflow; toilet overflow with some urine, but no feces; or dishwasher overflow.

• May contain bacteria and viruses
• Can quickly degrade into category 3 if left untreated

CATEGORY 3:

Category 3 water is grossly contaminated and could cause severe illness or death if ingested and any contact should be avoided. Examples include flooding from rivers or streams, water from beyond the toilet trap, water from the toilet bowl with feces, or standing water that has begun to support microbial growth.

• May contain untreated sewage, harsh chemicals, and microbes
• Water from flooding rivers or sewer backup

24 Hour Emergency Service

Professionals are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. SERVPRO Marine City/ Romeo Is Here To Help. 586-336-7373

Create a fire safety plan

5/19/2021 (Permalink)

Create a fire safety plan now

 
In the event that you or someone you know has a fire. SERVPRO of Marine City/Romeo is available to help you. We know how important it is to act quickly, so the sooner you call us at (586) 336-7373, the sooner we can stop any further damage.

Creating a plan ahead of time can you save you time and money in the future. Fires in your home or business are some of the most dangerous and traumatic events that can occur. Although we do not like to think about it, they are a possibility, so everyone should know ahead of time.

Steps to be taken:
1. Have An Escape Plan 
Make an escape plan and practice it several times per year with your family. Make sure your family members know not to put their lives in danger to save possessions. Always take the route that gets you outside the fastest. If you must exit through smoke, know to drop down under it and try to cover your mouth to keep from breathing smoke. If a door is hot to the touch, do not open it or go through it. 
 
2. Rope Ladders 
If you live in a two-story home, every bedroom should have a rope ladder which is readily available so family members can climb down outside instead of being trapped. A meeting spot outside your home needs to be designated, and ensure you take attendance, so you know who is out safely. 
 
3. Stop, Drop, Roll 
Everyone should know how to do this if fire catches on your clothes. Drop to the ground right away, cross your hands over your chest, and roll forward and back until you smother the flames completely. Cool the area that is burned with water and call for medical attention right away for serious burns. 
 
4. Fire Extinguishers 
Places such as your workshop, fireplace, and kitchen should have fire extinguishers nearby. Every family member should know how to use it as well. Extinguishers need to be regularly recharged, inspected or replaced as necessary. 
 
5. Stove Fires 
A small fire in your kitchen should be able to be handled by all. Suffocate the fire by putting a lid on the pan, turning the stove off and letting the pan sit unmoved until the flames are smothered. Extinguish small grease fires by putting baking soda on them, but do not ever use water. 
 

24/7 Emergency service

5/19/2021 (Permalink)

24 Hour Emergency Service

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO Marine City/ Romeo Professionals provide emergency water restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays. You can expect an immediate response time, day or night. 586-336-7373

A Fast Response is Crucial: In many cleaning and restoration situations, immediate action is needed. With over 1,700 U.S. and Canadian Franchise locations, SERVPRO is strategically positioned to be faster to any size emergency.

An immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Water is particularly invasive, quickly spreading throughout your property and being absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, etc. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals arrive quickly and start the water extraction process almost immediately.

WATER DAMAGE TIMELINE:

Within Minutes:

• Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
• Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
• Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
• Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.

Hours 1 - 24:

• Drywall begins to swell and break down.
• Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
• Furniture begins to swell and crack.
• Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
• A musty odor appears.

48 Hours to 1 Week:

• Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
• Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
• Metal begins to rust and corrode.
• Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
• Paint begins to blister.
• Wood flooring swells and warps.
• Serious biohazard contamination is possible.

More Than 1 Week:

• Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
• Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.

Michigan Winter Weather Safety Tips

12/14/2020 (Permalink)

1. Apply Sunscreen: This may seem silly during the winter months, but your children can get sunburned from playing outside. The snow reflects 85% of the sun’s ultraviolet rays, making the use of sunscreen an important step before your children head outside.
2. Check on Children Often

Make sure frostbite doesn’t ruin the fun. Regularly check that your children’s mittens are dry and warm, and that their noses aren’t too red.

3. Limit Snow Shoveling

If your children decide to make a fort or want to help clear the driveway, be mindful of who is shoveling. School-aged kids can easily lift heavy shovels of snow, but it may be too strenuous for younger ages and cause muscle strain.

4. Layer Up

Children should wear multiple layers when playing outside. If the top layers get wet from the snow, your kids can easily peel it off to the dry layers. It also helps to avoid cotton clothing when dressing for outdoor play because it won’t be warm enough in the cold weather. Try to stick with wool or other fabrics.

5. Have a Snack

You’ve heard the tip, “Never eat before swimming.” That doesn’t apply to winter play. Give your kids a snack before they head out in the snow. The calories will give their bodies energy in the cold weather.

6. Supervise Sledding

Knowing about the hill your children want to sled at is essential. If it’s near a busy road, contains rocks, or is steep and covered with trees, it isn’t a safe spot. You can also prevent any accidents by supervising the sledding activity and encouraging your children to wear helmets.

Holiday cooking safety

11/30/2020 (Permalink)

Holiday Cooking Safety Tips

 Thanksgiving is the holiday that brings people together with the family dinner being the highlight of the day. The United States Fire Administration estimates more than 2,000 residential fires are reported each Thanksgiving, with cooking (69%) the leading cause. Use these tips to help keep your holiday safe.

• Stay in the kitchen while food is cooking. Most fires in the kitchen occur because food is left unattended.
• Keep the cooking range free of clutter. Even though you have myriad dishes to prepare, don’t overload a cook top with too many pots and pans. Trying to cook all your dishes at once could cause grease to accidentally spill onto a range top and cause a fire.
• Always keep a potholder, oven mitt and lid handy while cooking. If a small fire starts in a pan on the stove, put on a flame-resistant oven mitt and smother the flames by carefully sliding the lid over the pan. Turn off the burner. Don’t remove the lid until the food has cooled.
• When removing lids on hot pans, tilt them away from you to protect your face and hands from steam. If there is an oven fire, turn off the heat and keep the door closed to prevent flames from burning you or your clothing.
• Never wear loose fitting clothing when cooking. Long, open sleeves could ignite and catch fire from a gas flame or a hot burner. Wear short, close fitting or tightly rolled sleeves when cooking. If you have long hair, be sure to tie it back.
• Keep smoke alarms connected while cooking. Smoke alarms can save lives. Make sure smoke alarms are installed and working.
• Unplug small appliances that aren’t in use. Not only will you save the energy, but you will also avoid the potential dangers if they were to be turned on accidentally.
• Keep a fire extinguisher in the kitchen in case of emergency and know how to use it. Make sure the fire extinguisher is UL listed and rated for grease and electrical fires.
• Avoid using a turkey fryer. Because turkey fryers pose a number of distinct safety concerns, including burn and fire hazards. If you still choose to fry your turkey, follow these safety guidelines recommended by Consumer Safety Product Commission:

Keep fryer in FULL VIEW while burner is on

• Place fryer in an open area AWAY from all walls, fences, or other structures
• Never use IN, ON, or UNDER a garage, breezeway, carport, porch, or any structure that can catch fire
• Raise and lower food SLOWLY to reduce splatter and avoid burns
• COVER bare skin when adding or removing food
• Check the oil temperature frequently
• If oil begins to smoke, immediately turn gas supply OFF
• If a fire occurs, immediately call 911. DO NOT attempt to extinguish fire with water

Christmas Light Safety Tips

11/5/2020 (Permalink)

10 Christmas Light Safety Tips

1. Never leave your lights on unattended: Whether you’re running out for food, or playing outside with the kids, turn your Christmas lights off any time you will not be nearby. While this may seem like a pain, there are a variety of products that make it easy, like Christmas light timers and remote controls that turn your indoor and outdoor lights off with the touch of a button. If you’re prone to forgetting, try an automated timer for outdoor lighting that illuminates your decorations when it gets dark outside and turns them off at sunrise.
2. Consider using LED lights instead of incandescent lights: LED lights, while a bit more expensive, are a much safe option indoor and outdoor lighting. Because they produce very little heat, they are perfect for holiday decorations. They also last up to 25 times longer and use 75 percent less electricity.
3. Be mindful of where you place candles: There’s nothing like warm candlelight flickering away on a cozy Christmas night. However, candles aren’t the safest option — especially if you have kids or pets who are prone to accidentally knocking things over. Place lit candles above the reach of wandering hands and tails, and well out of the way of flammable materials like curtains or wrapping paper. To prevent possible burns and fires, try flameless candles instead.
4. Indoor and outdoor lights are not interchangeable: Though indoor lights can be cheaper, don’t use them as a substitute for outdoor lights. Indoor lights aren’t as sealed against moisture as their outdoor counterparts, making them unsafe for wet winter weather. If you’re not sure which type of lights you have, play it safe, and toss them and buy new ones.
5. Only use three light strands per outlet: The number of light strings you can connect together in sequence depends on both the strands’ wattage and the maximum watt capacity of the house circuit you plug them into. A good rule of thumb is to keep each outlet to three strands of lights or fewer. Also consider using a power strip with a built-in circuit breaker instead of your wall outlet for added protection.
6. Get rid of old lights
7. Securely fasten all outdoor light strings: Winter storms can easily catch and blow loose outdoor Christmas light strands, causing potential electrical hazards. Fasten your lighted decorations to firm objects like trees or walls to keep your lights secure. Also fasten indoor lights out of reach of pets and small children to avoid chewing mishaps that could result in accidental electrocution.
8. Avoid using electric lights on metallic trees: Shiny aluminum and tinsel Christmas trees can bring real sparkle to your holiday décor, but if you opt for a metallic tree, avoid using electric lights or decorations. The tree could easily become charged with electricity, giving a real “shock” to anyone who touches it.
9. Be smart when using extension cords: Outdoor lights can pose a safety risk when extension cords are low enough to become surrounded by pools of rain or melted snow. Keep the cords dry, and make sure to use surge protectors to minimize damage in case of voltage fluctuation.
10. Keep your Christmas tree from becoming a fire hazard: Christmas Trees are the leading cause of house fires during the holidays. While there are definitely benefits to a real tree, artificial trees are the safer choice. Most artificial trees are made with fire-resistant materials, making them fairly safe to light and decorate. If you opt for a real tree, make sure it’s fresh when you buy it and that you keep it well watered. Once your tree dries out, it is no longer safe to keep in your home and should be removed immediately.

Whether you go big or small with your Christmas decorations this season, protecting your home and family should be your number one priority. Follow these 10 Christmas light safety tips to have a happy, secure holiday.

SNOWBIRDS

11/5/2020 (Permalink)

HOW TO WINTERIZE YOUR HOME FOR WHEN YOU’RE AWAY

If you are a snowbird heading south for the winter, there are several key things you can do to help protect your vacant home. Taking these steps can help protect your home from theft, damage, water, heating or electrical system malfunctions and other possible threats while you are away for an extended period of time.

1. Prevent Your Home From Appearing Unoccupied

• Forward your mail, stop newspaper delivery, and ask a friend to pick up items that may be left at your door.
• Arrange for someone to remove snow after storms.
• Put motion-sensitive exterior lights and interior lights on timers and set them to come on at varying times to discourage prowlers.

2. Take Steps to Protect Your Home from Thieves

• Confirm that your alarm systems are in working order and have been activated.
• Secure external doors and windows with deadbolt locks, security-type hinges. Install slide locks or other equivalent security locks on sliding glass doors.
• Store valuables that you are not taking with you in a safe deposit box or other secure offsite location.
• Avoid posting your vacation or travel plans on social media sites, as potential thieves can use that information to learn when your house will be vacant.

3. 3. Protect Your Pipes to Avoid Water Damage by Turning off Your Water Supply

• If a pipe bursts or leaks while you are away, it could cause significant damage. Consider completely turning off the water supply if you will be away for an extended period of time. If your home is heated by an older steam heating system, consult with your heating professional to determine if it is safe to turn off the water supply for your particular heating system. Also, if your home is protected by a fire sprinkler system, make sure that you do not turn off the water to this system.
• If you have turned off the water supply, drain your pipes of all water by opening the faucets, and flush your toilet to clear the water from the tank and bowl. Consider pouring antifreeze in toilet tanks and bowls to prevent any remaining water from freezing.* Always use non-toxic antifreeze rated for plumbing systems.
• You may wish to hire a licensed plumber to complete these steps. The plumber can also confirm that the pipes have been fully drained by blowing compressed air through the pipes.

4. 4. Keep Your Home and Plumbing Warm if Your Water Supply Stays On

• If you decide against draining your water pipes, keep the furnace running to help ensure the home stays warm and the pipes do not freeze.
• Set the temperature at 55°F or higher to help keep the interior of the floor and wall cavities, where the water piping is likely located above freezing temperatures. Keeping room and cabinet doors open can also help heat to circulate and warm the areas where pipes are located.
• Shut off the water to washing machines and dishwashers where possible, to avoid any leaks or broken hoses while you are away.
• Turn off the heat source and water supply to hot water heaters (if separate from your boiler).
• Consider shutting off and draining outdoor faucets to prevent water damage due to freezing.
• Have a water flow sensor and low temperature sensor installed on your main water supply pipe and hooked into a constantly monitored alarm system or your smart phone.

5. 5. Perform Routine Maintenance Before You Leave

• Have your heating system inspected and serviced by a licensed professional before the onset of cold weather. Have your fuel tanks filled before you leave and make sure you have set up periodic fuel deliveries, if needed. Have someone check on heat and fuel levels regularly while you are gone.
• Be sure to maintain electrical power if required to keep the heating system running. If electrical service to the home is to remain on while you are away, consider having a licensed electrical contractor inspect your main electrical panel, wiring and outlets. Repair or replace anything that may be defective.
• Have your roof inspected and clean your gutters to help prevent ice from building up.*

Remove dead trees or large overhanging limbs that could damage your house.

Snow Shoveling Safety

11/5/2020 (Permalink)

Snow Shoveling Safety Tips

The following tips can help keep you safer when you set out to shovel:

• Warm up. Warm your muscles before heading out to shovel by doing some light movements, such as bending side to side or walking in place.
• Push rather than lift. Pushing the snow with the shovel instead of lifting can help reduce the strain on your body. When lifting snow, bend your knees and use your legs when possible.
• Choose your shovel wisely. Ergonomically-designed shovels can help reduce the amount of bending you have to do.
• Lighten your load. Consider using a lighter-weight plastic shovel instead of a metal one to help decrease the weight being lifted.
• Hit the pause button. Pace yourself and be sure to take frequent breaks. Consider taking a break after 20 to 30 minutes of shoveling, especially when the snow is wet.
• Consider multiple trips. Consider shoveling periodically throughout the storm to avoid having to move large amounts of snow at once.
• Keep up with snowfall. Try to shovel snow shortly after it falls, when it is lighter and fluffier. The longer snow stays on the ground, the wetter it can become. Wet snow is heavier and harder to move.
• Wear layers. Dress in layers and remove them as you get warm to help maintain a comfortable body temperature.
• Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated while shoveling.

SNOW BIRDS, HOW TO WINTERIZE YOUR HOME.

9/21/2020 (Permalink)

HOW TO WINTERIZE YOUR HOME FOR WHEN YOU’RE AWAY

If you are a snowbird heading south for the winter, there are several key things you can do to help protect your vacant home. Taking these steps can help protect your home from theft, damage, water, heating or electrical system malfunctions and other possible threats while you are away for an extended period of time.

1. Prevent Your Home From Appearing Unoccupied

• Forward your mail, stop newspaper delivery, and ask a friend to pick up items that may be left at your door.
• Arrange for someone to remove snow after storms.
• Put motion-sensitive exterior lights and interior lights on timers and set them to come on at varying times to discourage prowlers.

2. Take Steps to Protect Your Home from Thieves

• Confirm that your alarm systems are in working order and have been activated.
• Secure external doors and windows with deadbolt locks, security-type hinges. Install slide locks or other equivalent security locks on sliding glass doors.
• Store valuables that you are not taking with you in a safe deposit box or other secure offsite location.
• Avoid posting your vacation or travel plans on social media sites, as potential thieves can use that information to learn when your house will be vacant.

3. 3. Protect Your Pipes to Avoid Water Damage by Turning off Your Water Supply

• If a pipe bursts or leaks while you are away, it could cause significant damage. Consider completely turning off the water supply if you will be away for an extended period of time. If your home is heated by an older steam heating system, consult with your heating professional to determine if it is safe to turn off the water supply for your particular heating system. Also, if your home is protected by a fire sprinkler system, make sure that you do not turn off the water to this system.
• If you have turned off the water supply, drain your pipes of all water by opening the faucets, and flush your toilet to clear the water from the tank and bowl. Consider pouring antifreeze in toilet tanks and bowls to prevent any remaining water from freezing.* Always use non-toxic antifreeze rated for plumbing systems.
• You may wish to hire a licensed plumber to complete these steps. The plumber can also confirm that the pipes have been fully drained by blowing compressed air through the pipes.

4. 4. Keep Your Home and Plumbing Warm if Your Water Supply Stays On

• If you decide against draining your water pipes, keep the furnace running to help ensure the home stays warm and the pipes do not freeze.
• Set the temperature at 55°F or higher to help keep the interior of the floor and wall cavities, where the water piping is likely located above freezing temperatures. Keeping room and cabinet doors open can also help heat to circulate and warm the areas where pipes are located.
• Shut off the water to washing machines and dishwashers where possible, to avoid any leaks or broken hoses while you are away.
• Turn off the heat source and water supply to hot water heaters (if separate from your boiler).
• Consider shutting off and draining outdoor faucets to prevent water damage due to freezing.
• Have a water flow sensor and low temperature sensor installed on your main water supply pipe and hooked into a constantly monitored alarm system or your smart phone.

5. 5. Perform Routine Maintenance Before You Leave

• Have your heating system inspected and serviced by a licensed professional before the onset of cold weather. Have your fuel tanks filled before you leave and make sure you have set up periodic fuel deliveries, if needed. Have someone check on heat and fuel levels regularly while you are gone.
• Be sure to maintain electrical power if required to keep the heating system running. If electrical service to the home is to remain on while you are away, consider having a licensed electrical contractor inspect your main electrical panel, wiring and outlets. Repair or replace anything that may be defective.
• Have your roof inspected and clean your gutters to help prevent ice from building up.*

Remove dead trees or large overhanging limbs that could damage your house.

• Unplug all unnecessary appliances, such as your stove and microwave, before you leave.
• Make sure you can periodically retrieve messages on your home answering machine or voicemail while you are away so it does not indicate "FULL" suggesting you are away when someone calls.

6. 6. Make Your Home Unattractive to Pests

• Clean your home thoroughly to help discourage new “residents” from moving in.
• Clean, defrost and unplug refrigerators and freezers, wiping them dry and leaving doors propped open to prevent mildew. Also clean the oven.
• Inspect your home for openings that animals could use to enter. For example, make sure your fireplace flue is closed, as bats, birds and squirrels are known to get inside this way.
• Check weather-stripping, insulation and exterior doors and windows to ensure no major deficiencies are present. Water and insects can enter through these openings.
• Chimneys should be inspected by a chimney service and, if necessary, cleaned to ensure that they are free from obstructions such as nesting birds. Install chimney guard screen-caps to help prevent any infestation.

7. Be Ready for Emergencies

• Notify the police department that the property will be vacant, and provide emergency notification numbers.
• Install smoke detectors on at least every floor (preferably tied to a constantly monitored fire alarm system so the fire department will automatically be notified in case of alarm), and confirm that the sensors and system are tested regularly.
• In higher wind-exposed or coastal areas, install storm shutters (or consider using other mitigation measures, such as 5/8” marine plywood) to secure windows. Properly anchor personal property that will remain outdoors.
• Ask a trusted friend, neighbor or relative to keep an eye on your home and be available in emergency situations. Give them access to your home so they can regularly monitor heating, electrical and water systems.
• If the weather turns frigid, have them look at the edge of the roof for ice dams and look for leaks inside. Make sure they have your contact information and a list of local contractors they can reach if repairs or service are indicated.

How To Have A Safe Bonfire

8/26/2020 (Permalink)

BONFIRE SAFETY GUIDELINES

1. Check the weather. Never build a bonfire on a high wind night.

2. Make sure the are where you start your bonfire is a legal location. Check your states laws and regulations about fires before you begin.

3. Keep a bucket off water or garden hose nearby in case  the fire begins to spread. It is important to be prepared in case of emergency.

4. Keep a close eye on the bonfire as well as children nearby. This will help protect others around you.

5. Do not burn aerosols, canisters or anything containing foam or paint. These types of chemicals  have extremely flammable ingredients that can cause fire to spread or produce toxic fumes. Containers of these products could explode, causing injury.

6. Ensure the wood you are burning is dry and seasoned. This means no railroad ties, nothing coated or treated, and no furniture should be thrown in the fire.

7. The pile shouldn't be bigger that 5' x 5' to keep the flames containable.

8. After the bonfire is done, turn over the charred materials with metal shovels and rakes, and douse the area with water.

COVID-19 Personal Protection Protocols

5/11/2020 (Permalink)

COVID-19 Personal Hygiene Protocols

There are several measures the CDC recommends you take to protect yourself from spreading and contracting the Corona Virus 

Wash your hands often

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
• If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub them together until they feel dry.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.

Avoid close contact

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick, even inside your home. If possible, maintain 6 feet between the person who is sick and other household members.
• Put distance between yourself and other people outside of your home.
  • Remember that some people without symptoms may be able to spread virus.
  • Stay at least 6 feet (about 2 arms’ length) from other people.
  • Do not gather in groups.
  • Stay out of crowded places and avoid mass gatherings.
  • Keeping distance from others is especially important for people who are at higher risk of getting very sick.

Cover your mouth and nose with a cloth face cover when around others

• You could spread COVID-19 to others even if you do not feel sick.
• Everyone should wear a cloth face cover when they have to go out in public, for example to the grocery store or to pick up other necessities.
  • Cloth face coverings should not be placed on young children under age 2, anyone who has trouble breathing, or is unconscious, incapacitated or otherwise unable to remove the mask without assistance.
• The cloth face cover is meant to protect other people in case you are infected.
• Do NOT use a facemask meant for a healthcare worker.
• Continue to keep about 6 feet between yourself and others. The cloth face cover is not a substitute for social distancing.

Cover coughs and sneezes

• If you are in a private setting and do not have on your cloth face covering, remember to always cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze or use the inside of your elbow.
• Throw used tissues in the trash.
• Immediately wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not readily available, clean your hands with a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/prevention.html

COVID-19 Cleaning Protocols

5/11/2020 (Permalink)

Clean

• Wear reusable or disposable gloves for routine cleaning and disinfection.
• Clean surfaces using soap and water, then use disinfectant.
• Cleaning with soap and water reduces number of germs, dirt and impurities on the surface. Disinfecting kills germs on surfaces.
• Practice routine cleaning of frequently touched surfaces. High touch surfaces include:
  • Tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets, sinks, etc.

Disinfect

• Recommend use of EPA-registered household disinfectantexternal icon.
  Follow the instructions on the label to ensure safe and effective use of the product. Read EPA’s infographic on how to use these disinfectant productsexternal icon safely and effectively.
  Many products recommend:
  • Keeping surface wet for a period of time (see product label)
  • Precautions such as wearing gloves and making sure you have good ventilation during use of the product
• Diluted household bleach solutions may also be used if appropriate for the surface.
  • Check the label to see if your bleach is intended for disinfection, and ensure the product is not past its expiration date. Some bleaches, such as those designed for safe use on colored clothing or for whitening may not be suitable for disinfection.
  • Unexpired household bleach will be effective against coronaviruses when properly diluted.
    Follow manufacturer’s instructions for application and proper ventilation. Never mix household bleach with ammonia or any other cleanser.
    Leave solution on the surface for at least 1 mnute.
    
    To make a bleach solution, mix:
  • 5 tablespoons (1/3rd cup) bleach per gallon of water
    OR
  • 4 teaspoons bleach per quart of water

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/disinfecting-your-home.html

Being part of your Community

8/27/2019 (Permalink)

Supporting local community events.

SERVPRO of Marine City/Romeo   (586) 336 7373

https://www.SERVPROmarinecityromeo.com

Organizations working together and getting involved in their communities helps promote their business and also helps build a trust with other businesses and individuals within their area.  

SERVPRO of Marine City/Romeo finds this a remarkable way to utilize the marketing resources available.  This relationship helps to gain the trust within the community and reiterates the fact our family and employees are heroes to those in need and we will do our best in anyway to help people and protect our name and the SERVPRO logo.  

You can gain business, new friendships, and bring pride to your Franchise.  

SERVPRO of Marine City/Romeo enjoys being members to area Chambers of Commerce and other associations that help their communities.

SERVPRO of MC/Romeo's Recent Community involvement

12/9/2017 (Permalink)

Recently the team here at SERVPRO of Marine City/Romeo has been actively involved in various local holiday festivities such as a fundraiser for the Algonquin High School and Marine City's Merrytime Christmas. 

For the band fundraiser we set up a holiday themed display in downtown Algonac. This afforded us a wonderful opportunity to display our creativity and teamwork as we came up with ideas for our display. Everyone pitched in a little bit of time and we were able to get a wonderful display set up along St. Clair River Drive. Not only was it rewarding to give back to the bands but we were also able to put our name out into another community. We were so glad to be able to support another local group that has impacted the lives of so many students at Algonquin High.

Another local event in the blue water area this holiday season was Marine City's Merrytime Christmas. This event celebrates not only this tight knit community but the small businesses that make it happen. Small, locally owned businesses that participate are able to sell their products and advertise to the community. There is caroling,food and much more! It's a great time for all of the businesses in the area to come together and celebrate the holidays.

Marine City Chamber of Commerce

9/16/2016 (Permalink)

BE PART OF MAKING HISTORY AND BREAKING A GUINESS WORLD RECORD! IT WILL BE FUN FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY!

These events will be held on Saturday, October 15th and Sunday, October 16th.

KITS FOR PUMPKIN CARVING & POPCORN STRINGS CAN BE PURCHASED or RESERVED ON LINE www.pumpkinspopcornpolitics or by calling 810-765-4501

The current Guinness World Books record is 1,060 simultaneously carved pumpkins. Our goal is to break this record by 140 pumpkins.1,200 pumpkins will be set up in Nautical Mile Park (Rotary Park) on Saturday. The Online registration along with kits will be sold online beginning September 1st. Check-in and pumpkin carving area assignments will begin Saturday from 9:00 am -12:00 noon. Carving will begin at 12:30 sharp. The kit will include a pumpkin, carving kit, tea light, plastic bag, certificate and a Guinness World Record attempt sticker. Saturday night the pumpkins will be lit and illuminate the sidewalks, river's edge and displayed on hay bales in Nautical Mile Park.Carved pumpkins will remain in the park until 2:00 Sunday. Pumpkin owners may pick up their pumpkins after 2:00. The 10 best carved pumpkins will receive a prize - tbd. Pumpkins carving kits can be purchased online www.pumpkinspopcornpolitics.com.

The second Guinness World Record attempt is the longest strand of popcorn, which is 1 mile. To make it even more exciting we will be connecting the USA to CANADA with the string.

Popcorn kits can be reserved by visiting www.pumpkinspopcornpolitics.com. The Popcorn Kit includes all you need for you or your group to create a 100' popcorn string to be used in the Guinness World Record attempt (popcorn, string, needles, floater). There is not cost for the popcorn kit and they can be picked up at the Mariner. The completed 100' strings need to be completed by October first. On October 16th all 57 strings will be connected in Nautical Mile Park in Marine City beginning at 2:00 pm. THIS IS ALSO A GREAT WAY TO ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS OR CAUSE.

Creating voter awareness and increase voter turn out. Registration for voting will be present at these events, which includes City involvement. Students will be involved in this endeavor and earn community service credit hours. Events will be planned around the “get out to vote” endeavor