Why your business needs a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Plan

9/11/2023 (Permalink)

Having a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile can save a lot of time, energy and money when disasters strike.

Disasters can strike at anytime, anywhere, and Montgomery County, Maryland is no exception.

Did you know up to 50% of businesses afflicted by a disaster will never reopen? The statistic may be shocking, but what isn’t very surprising is that the vast majority of the surviving businesses had previously established a preparedness plan.   

Prevention saves a lot of time, energy and money. Unfortunately, all catastrophes cannot be prevented, which means it is imperative to have an emergency plan in place just in case an unexpected event occurs.

The SERVPRO Emergency Ready Plan application works to prevent situations from escalating. The app, designed for commercial use, is marketed towards property and risk managers and towards business owners.

Some benefits of the app include:

• An assessment at no charge
• A Profile Document containing only necessary information geared for a time of emergency
• A quick reference for you and your employees (especially if the owner/manager is away on a business trip, for example).
• A free guide outlining important steps to take post-disaster
• A connection and direct contact with your local SERVPRO

SERVPRO clients, including those in Rockville-Olney & Silver Spring North are offered this service free of charge. After downloading the SERVPRO ERP application onto an electronic device, a SERVPRO employee will meet with the client to map the property they own or manage.

Mapping the territory includes, but is not limited to, making note of water pipes, crawl spaces and fire exits. Information such as the square footage of the building and photographs of the property are collected and stored in the app as well.

Although gathering and recording this information on the app may sound like a lengthy process, employees have noted they can finish the plan in about 30 minutes. Additionally, owners can go back into the app and add more detail or update over time. There’s nothing to lose, and everything to gain!

If you prepare for the future, you will “Save Early for Disaster Costs.” Utilizing tools to prevent damage, to prevent loss, and to prevent losing your business to a disaster, is one of the best ways to ensure the “health” of what you own or manage. 

It’s simple, and it’s free. Save now to avoid large costs later. Download the application in the App Store or from the link below:

https://ready.SERVPRO.com/Home/MobileApp

Please feel free to call SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney & Silver Spring North at 301-340-1313 with any questions you may have about the Emergency Ready Plan. We're also here 24/7 for any cleanup & restoration needs from storm, water, fire or mold damage.

Got an Odor in your home? SERVPRO Rockville can help!

9/6/2023 (Permalink)

Candles can mask indoor odors temporarily. But for more serious and lingering odor, SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney can help!

Detect an odor in your home or business? SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney & Silver Spring North can help!

First, you might ask where it’s coming from. Is there a specific source that’s letting off this smell? What’s causing it, and how can it be eliminated once and for all?

Sometimes, an odor can originate from a deceased animal trapped in your attic. That’s a simpler cleanup. Other times, the odor could be much more difficult to pinpoint. When the situation is more complex or dispersed, there’s more of a science to identifying the root of the issue.

This is when SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney & SERVPRO of Silver Spring North step in. Our highly-trained technicians have taken IICRC technical classes to learn how to properly identify and remove odors.

Let’s get rid of this smell so that your personal chemical sensor (your nose!) agrees with the surrounding air once again!

Oftentimes, people try masking a serious odor. In attempt to scare the smell away, here are a few common methods used, but are either very temporary or to be used with caution:

• Purchase and light a candle warmer
• Spray a pleasant scent
• Sprinkle baking soda everywhere (which can neutralize odors permanently, however, use caution or avoid if you have pets. If ingested, animals can become ill)
• Cleaning furniture or walls with soapy water
• Leaving windows open (which is sometimes a preventative measure to take, but can also allow additional moisture to travel inside depending on climate and temperatures)

If the odor stems from an issue such as mold, a gas leak, improper heating equipment, a blocked chimney, or spilled chemicals, the methods above might cover the smell for a short while, but will not be able to stop the smell from resurfacing. In many of these instances, the smell could lead to sickness or could even be fatal.

If you discover the source, and it’s an easy fix (rotting vegetables in your refrigerator, a bag of old gym shoes in your garage, food stuck in your drain because you forgot to use the garbage disposal, etc.), then you’re in luck. However, you will want to call a professional immediately if the circumstances seem more dangerous/hazardous or if you cannot pinpoint a harmless source after searching.

Leave it to SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney & Silver Spring North if you want a safe, thorough and effective cleanup. With our extensive knowledge and latest, state-of-the-art equipment, we will have the smell source identified, located, and carefully eliminated.

Give us a call at 301-340-1313.

Visit our website for more information: SERVPROrockvillesilverspringnorth.com/odor-removal-deodorization

We are faster to any disaster when it comes to commercial fire damage restoration!

8/25/2023 (Permalink)

Our crews recently provided cleanup & restoration services to a local condo building that suffered al fire on its top floors.

Has your commercial property recently experienced a fire?

Whether you manage or own commercial property, you know that fire loss can be extremely devastating. Not only does fire destroy property, furnishings, flooring and much more, but smoke also damages the property, leaving behind soot and strong, fiery odors.

Water damage is an additional loss after a fire. Firefighters must use significant amounts of water to extinguish such a fire. With water damage comes the chance of mold growth. This is why it’s important to have the water completely dried as soon as possible.

Whether you own an office building, shop, car garage, museum, etc., dealing with the aftermath of a fire places a lot of responsibility on you, not to mention the stress. At SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney and SERVPRO of Silver Spring North, our technicians are highly-trained in all the areas aforementioned: fire, water and mold remediation & restoration. Our tried-and-trued process and equipment ensure that your property will be restored and made “Like it never even happened.”

We also realize how stressful losses can be. When choosing SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney and Silver Spring North, you can rest assured you are in good hands. Our crew chiefs communicate very closely with clients to answer any questions they may have.

We also realize you are anxious to return to your business. Lost time is lost revenue. We will make sure your business is up and running as soon as it possibly can be. If your business has experienced a fire, call SERVPRO Team Gutierrez 24/7 at 301-340-1313 and we will be there "faster to any size disaster!" 

Are your classrooms, daycares safe for back to school? We can help!

8/25/2023 (Permalink)

Our SERVPRO crews can deep clean & sanitize classrooms, hallways & other rooms on campuses and daycares to provide safe places for returning students.

Most area school students & staff, including those in Montgomery and Prince George's County Public Schools in Maryland, return to class at the end of August. 

For facilities managers, it's still important to make schools, daycares and places where students and faculty & staff will be spending their daytime learning and teaching and interacting with one another safe places.

SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney & SERVPRO of Silver Spring North offer a variety of cleaning services, including fogging, electrostatic disinfectant spraying, and proactive cleaning. We have been helping businesses and residences stay safe and protected throughout the COVID-19 crisis and will continue to do so. Sanitized spaces give everyone a peace of mind.

Our services can be recurring, too! Get scheduled for a one-time cleaning, or make services recurring. To learn more about our services, or to schedule a cleaning, call us today at 301-340-1313!

Enjoy the BBQs, Fireworks & Fun, But Be Safe!

6/26/2023 (Permalink)

A backyard fire may seem fun, but there are risks so be safe!

Summer is traditionally known for fireworks, barbeques and picnics – all musts for major celebrations especially July Fourth!

While putting on a firework show at your own home may seem fun, there are many risks. If lighting fireworks is not legal in your residential area there could be a large fine. Moreover, keep in mind the potential dangers that could occur as a result of fireworks, such as severe burns, blindness and scars.

Kids should not be near or handling the firecrackers or rockets. Supervise children around fireworks at all times. To avoid the dangers of fireworks, enjoy a public fireworks display conducted by professionals.

If you choose to give your children sparklers, never leave children unattended with these. It is possible to get burned by the tip of the sparkler. Make sure your children do not point the sparklers towards themselves or others. Keep a bucket of water nearby for when your child is finished with the sparkler to ensure that the sparkler is no longer lit.

Take precaution for your pets, too! Leave your pets inside your home so there are no risks. Loud fireworks and unfamiliar places can be scary to pets.

Remember these tips when grilling:

• Never grill in an enclosed area, as carbon monoxide could be produced.
• Use caution when using lighter fluid on a barbeque. Do not add fluid to an already-lit fire, as the flame can flash back into the container and explode.
• Make sure children are away from the grill.

Have fun this summer and stay safe!

Know who to call in the event you have fire or water damage in your home or business. Our emergency response teams at SERVPRO® of Rockville-Olney and Silver Spring North are here 24/7 to help! 301-340-1313.

Be Prepared for Those Unpredictable Summer Storms

6/26/2023 (Permalink)

Follow these tips to secure your property for those unexpected storms in Maryland.

Summer in Rockville, Olney and other parts of Maryland brings lots of sunshine and pleasant warm weather. It also offers a fair share of storms.

The NOAA (National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration) predicts a 30% chance of an above-normal season for the Hurricane 2023 season, which begins June 1 and ends Nov. 30.

Our Maryland region has seen recent storms with heavy rain and strong winds, causing trees and powerlines to fall in some counties including Montgomery & Prince George's counties. Lightning, thunder, flying debris and hail can also occur during these storms.

Just last week our emergency services team responded to a residential loss pertaining to a tree that fell on the side of a townhome during a thunderstorm. Our team tarped the affected area to prevent further damage to the home. This emergency tarping prevented other elements, such as rain and dust, from entering inside the cracks and openings of the siding, which the fallen tree caused.

Here are a few tips to make your property more secure during a storm:

Get your roof and foundation checked out. Are there any cracks in your roof? If so, call a professional to have it repaired ASAP.

Remove any tree branches that pose risk to breaking a window, for example. Getting a tree trimming before the summer storm season begins is a wise idea.

Invest in storm windows.

Bring all patio furniture, grills, etc. indoors before the storm hits.

Tightly secure outdoor items you cannot bring indoors.

Bring potted plants inside until the storm passes over.

If you have a garage, park your vehicle inside it before the storm hits.

If you must evacuate due to the storm, secure and board up windows.

We hope you find these tips helpful and wish you an enjoyable and safe summer!

SERVPRO® of Rockville-Olney – along with our sister franchises SERVPRO® of Silver Spring North, SERVPRO® of Laurel and Greenbelt NE/Beltsville E – is a full-service restoration company that specializes in the cleanup, restoration & reconstruction of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage. We also mitigate mold & mildew, and biohazards from your home or business.

Call us 24/7 at 301-340-1313 and let us help make it "Like it never even happened."

Follow these tips to prevent a fire

6/3/2023 (Permalink)

Grilling is a major part of backyard gatherings in Summer. Follow these safety tips to avoid a fire.

There's nothing like warm, nice weather that yearns for outdoor fun such as barbecues and cookouts with family, friends and neighbors.

In Montgomery County, MD, we’re able to enjoy certain activities specifically in the summertime, whether it be outdoor cooking, camping or going to fireworks shows. These activities create wonderful summer memories between family and friends.

As you know, fire can spread quite easily in hot, dry air. It spreads more rapidly when wind is present. Our weather in Maryland is often hot, and windy, so it’s important to follow safety precautions. SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney & SERVPRO of Silver Spring North offer the following info to help make those gatherings safe & fun:

FIREWORKS

• Instead of lighting your own fireworks, watch a public viewing. Leave the lighting up to the professionals.
• If you do choose to use fireworks, do not attempt to re-light those that never lit on the first try. Instead, dump them in a bucket of water and properly dispose later.

OUTDOOR COOKING

• Propane and charcoal grills are to be used outside only.
• Make sure your grill is well away from you home. Keep it out from under roof edges and keep it away from tree branches, shrubbery, etc.
• Remove all grease buildup on your grill to avoid a fire.
• Never leave your grill unattended.
• Be sure to keep kids and pets away from it.
• Do not wear loose-fitting clothes while cooking outside.
• Do not pour lighter fluid directly onto a lit grill.
• Make sure the coals from a charcoal grill are completely cool before disposing. Cover the coals with water and mix to ensure they are extinguished.

CAMPFIRES

• Make sure the park or town you're starting a campfire at allows it before lighting one.
• Do not build a campfire near dry leaves or around any overhanging tree branches. Clear any vegetation in the area in which you dig your campfire pit in.
• Do not dig your firepit near your tent.
• Watch the campfire closely, never leaving it unattended.
• Always keep lots of water near the campfire site.
• Once finished, completely extinguish the fire.

We hope these tips help you to enjoy your summer and be safe at the same time! In the unfortunate event you have a fire or water damage situation, call SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney & Silver Spring North at 301-340-1313.

We're open 24/7 and here to help!

We Give Our Customers a Different Level of Clean

5/30/2023 (Permalink)

Give your customers the high level of clean they expect. SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney can help!

Most businesses and corporations small and large in Maryland have returned to operation at full capacity. Still, it's in everyone's best interest for business owners and patrons to continue to take safety measures and common sense when among large gatherings.

And with summer travel at its peak, businesses such as restaurants, hotels and places with high travel populations, owners and property managers of those facilities may consider a professional, deep sanitization to further protect your customers and patrons.

Our Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned program is a defensive cleaning program that gives your business a way forward by providing your employees & customers ongoing safety and assuredness. Our proactive viral pathogen cleaning program will help your business meet a higher standard of clean.

Call SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney today at 301-340-1313 to schedule a free consultation. 

Water stains on your ceiling? Call us ASAP!

5/30/2023 (Permalink)

If you notice a water stain on your ceiling, give us a call!

Water stains aren’t something to ignore. Instead, they are indicators of an urgent matter!

If you see water stain(s) on your ceiling, you should request help promptly.

Water stains can mean:

• Leaky pipe(s)
• Old caulking
• Problem with roof
• Poor insulation

Whatever is above your ceiling is typically the source of the moisture issue. Is your property’s roof or a bathroom above the water stain? That may just be the source of the problem. However, if you cannot determine a water source above the stain, you may have a leaky pipe.

Water seepage from old caulking or piping in disrepair are other common sources of water stains. It’s very important that damaged or old pipes are replaced to avoid leaking or “sweating.”

After a snowstorm or even a rain downpour, water stains can show up on your ceiling. For instance, rain can leak through from the gutter. Therefore, you have a roofing issue upon your property.

However, if an ice dam forms on your roof and water is able to seep in, it’s a good indicator of a need to improve the insulation.

Sometimes, a professional may need to remove a portion of the ceiling, and possibly the wall, to completely restore and fix the affected area for good.

Remember, deal with the stain in a very timely manner! Applying a quick coat of paint over the stain can make a temporarily, cosmetic difference, but often time, the stain will bleed right through the new paint.

Instead, call a professional to ensure the source of the water is correctly identified and handled properly. Ignoring the issue can lead to expensive repairs! It’s much better to catch the problem sooner than having to have sections of your ceiling teared down and replaced.

Call us, SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney and SERVPRO of Silver Spring North, to have water stains in your home or office checked out. We are the area’s water damage experts and are always “Faster to any size disaster.” Large or small, we will restore your water-damaged property with efficiency and detail.

Call us with any needs or questions at (301) 340-1313.   

What if there's Mold on my food?

5/22/2023 (Permalink)

Moldy food may contain toxic substance and can cause health problems. Best to throw it out!

Have you ever noticed a few small spots of mold on the slice of bread you were about to eat? If the spots are small and look easy to pinch off, it’s pretty tempting to try salvaging. But, you don’t want to get sick!

Have the small mold spots contaminated the whole piece, or will you be just fine removing them by hand?

First, it’s important to know that simply cutting or scrapping mold off your bread, strawberry, etc. won’t save you from ingesting mold. The mold has already rooted itself in your food, so what you are looking at are surface spores. Even if you no longer see it, the mold has already made its home in your food. So yes, your piece of bread is more contaminated than you think.

Although we’ve all probably pinched mold off a piece of bread at one time or another, consuming moldy food can sometimes be very harmful. Bacteria can grow along with the mold, and it’s easy for mold to contaminate porous foods like bread.

For example, black bread mold is a rarer, but very dangerous mold that grows on bread. It can cause serious infection. It’s best to toss out the moldy bread!

Mycotoxins, a toxic substance, can be produced by certain molds usually found in grain and nut crops. Mycotoxins can also contaminate apples, celery, grapes and other produce. Consumption of mycotoxins can cause respiratory problems and allergic reactions.

Additionally, if you see mold on any of the following, throw it away:

• Lunch meat
• Bacon
• Hot dogs
• Cooked pasta
• Cream or cottage cheese
• Tomatoes
• Citrus fruits
• Peaches
• Peanut better
• Jelly (mycotoxins commonly found within the mold in jams and jellies)
• And yes… bread!

A few food items you can cut the mold out from include:

• Cabbage
• Carrots
• Hard cheese
• Hard salami
• Dry-cured country hams

Best advice: When in doubt, throw it out!