Archived Why SERVPRO Blog Posts

SERVPRO is Here for YOU!

6/6/2023 (Permalink)

After a fire or water loss, you have so much to think about and deal with and we want to put your mind at ease. Our team is filled with experts who are trained to handle any loss, big or small. We work as a team to help you.

Communication is key! We will gather information and truly listen to your needs and wants during this process. We want you to know you are as important to us as the next customer and we will treat you and your belongings with care. We will stay in constant communication with you as the job progresses and up until it is complete. We know that as long as we are all on the same page with expectations, we will all end up on the same team.

Our goal is to make our customer comfortable and completely satisfied with the work we do for you. Our crews take great care in cleaning and restoring your belongings as though you were family. They will show you respect and they will also treat your home and belongings with respect.

We understand when you have a loss, you are in need of help and guidance. SERVPRO of Springfield is the restoration company for you. We are experts in our field and understand the value of our customers. We know that once you have used our company, you will recommend us to your friends and family. We appreciate your business!

As always, if disaster strikes, SERVPRO of Springfield, Sangamon, Morgan, Cass, and Montgomery counties is always here for you. We can be reached 24/7 at 217-528-7775.

Happy Halloween from SERVPRO!

10/31/2022 (Permalink)

Halloween

Happy Halloween from everyone here at SERVPRO of Springfield! We hope that your costumes are awesome and your candy stashes grow large. There’s no doubt that Halloween can be a source of fun and excitement for kids and adults alike. But even on this beloved holiday, it’s important to not only remain safe while out and about but also to try to be somewhat healthy as well. Luckily, Healthychildren.org has a list of safety tips and healthy pointers to help you get the most out of your Halloween celebrations;

If you’re going trick-or-treating at night, plan costumes that are bright and reflective so other people and cars will be able to see you easier
Give your child a good meal prior to parties and trick-or-treating to dissuade them from eating too much candy
Make sure costumes are short enough to prevent tripping, entanglement, or contact with flame and contain adequate footwear for long periods of walking and running
Keep an eye on what your child has in their mouth at all times while out trick-or-treating
Consider approved and hypoallergenic makeup as opposed to masks to make sure you have a full range of vision
Try to ration treats for the days and weeks following Halloween to keep everyone from overeating on their Halloween treats
Avoid any sharp or long swords, canes, or sticks as a costume accessory as they can be hazardous to others if used inappropriately
Make sure you’re children know to never eat candy that is not properly sealed in a wrapper
Only go to homes with a porch light on because that is a common indicator that the people inside are participating
Inspect any baked or homemade goodies for contamination or allergens
Always accompany young children on their neighborhood rounds even if they know the neighborhood well

Halloween is one of the most celebrated and enjoyed holidays on the calendar every year. But it can also be very dangerous for both adults and kids if they’re not well prepared for it. Just remember to stay safe when having fun and make sure others around you are doing it just the same.

As always, if disaster strikes, SERVPRO of Springfield and SERVPRO of Morgan, Cass, Macoupin & Montgomery Counties are always here for you. We can be reached 24/7 at 217-528-7775.

Happy Labor Day from SERVPRO!

9/5/2022 (Permalink)

Labor Days

Happy Labor Day from everyone here at SERVPRO of Springfield! And a big thank you to all of the hardworking people that make our country one of the best in the world. To celebrate everyone who works hard every week, this day is meant to celebrate their contribution and give them a day off to rest and recover. Of course, even on a day off from work, it’s important that the celebration you plan is not only the best one for you, but is also safe for all involved. Safewise.com has a list of activity ideas and safety tips to help you get the most out of your Labor Day;

If you’re planning a road trip, have your car checked by a trusted mechanic before leaving, and make sure to pack a vehicle emergency kit, plan frequent stops, and divide driving duties with others in your group
If you choose to use fireworks be sure you take some precautions such as only lighting one at a time, never re-light a malfunctioning firework, and don’t use fireworks while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
If you plan on consuming alcohol, set a limit on how much you will consume and make sure that you have a designated driver selected who will not be drinking.
If you decide to go boating, make sure the boat is in good condition and has all safety equipment including life preservers, and an emergency kit.
If you’re tackling outdoor chores instead, make sure any power tool’s cord is in good condition, be sure your extensions are designed for outdoor use, and only use a ladder when there’s someone else at home.
If you attend a picnic, barbeque, or a neighborhood pot-luck take steps to minimize the chance of cross-contamination and food-borne illness by washing your hands before and after you touch raw meat, refrigerating meat that’s waiting to hit the grill, and never leaving food that requires refrigeration (think potato salad, coleslaw, or chicken salad) out in the sun.
If you plan to spend time out in the sun swimming, biking, or doing some other outdoor activities, make sure you have plenty of water and regularly apply sunscreen.

Everyone has a different way of taking time off from their busy work lives. But any combination of them can make your Labor Day celebration one to remember and cherish. Just remember to stay safe when having fun and to thank the hardworking men and women who make this day and this country one to love.

As always, if disaster strikes, SERVPRO of Springfield and SERVPRO of Morgan, Cass, Macoupin & Montgomery Counties are always here for you. We can be reached 24/7 at 217-528-7775.

Camping Safety for Beginners

8/1/2022 (Permalink)

Camping

Looking to get out of the house and go camping this summer? It’s nice to get out of the house for a while every now and then. However, if it’s your first time trying camping, there are some tips that will make your first time not only more fun but also safer. Well Planned Journey has a list of helpful tips to make sure your first time camping goes great;

Choose the right camping style for you
Pick a campground you can drive to
Pick the best campsite in the campground
Read up on campground regulations before you go
Look for gear from reliable brands
Wear durable, quick-drying materials
Choose the best shoes to wear camping
Organize your gear into clear bins
Bring sealable bins for food
Bring a backpack or small overnight bag for clothes
Practice setting up your tent
Arrive in the daylight to set up camp
Bring a large container to store drinking water
Pack the essential toiletries for camping
Practice proper fire safety

Of course, there are dozens of other helpful tips that you can follow when setting up for, and going on your first camping trip. The gist of it however is to make sure you’re prepared for things to go wrong. After all, you’re rather be prepared and not need the preparations than not have what you need when you need it. Out in the woods, any number of things could go wrong. But as long as you know what you’re doing, you can make sure your first camping trip isn’t your last camping trip.

As always, if disaster strikes, SERVPRO of Springfield and SERVPRO of Morgan, Cass, Macoupin & Montgomery Counties are always here for you. We can be reached 24/7 at 217-528-7775.

Happy Independence Day from SERVPRO!

7/4/2022 (Permalink)

Fourth of July

From everyone here at SERVPRO of Springfield, we’d like to wish you and your family a very happy Fourth of July! Today we take time off from work to celebrate the founding of our country and remember all the people who fought and died for it. However, as fun as the holiday is to spend with friends and family alike, it’s important to remember that we need to stay safe as well. The American Red Cross has a list of helpful tips to make sure your holiday celebration goes great;

Never give fireworks to small children
Children, inexperienced swimmers, and all boaters should wear properly fitted U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets
Don’t leave food out in the hot sun
Never throw or point a firework toward people, animals, vehicles, structures, or flammable materials
Make sure you swim sober and that you always swim with a buddy
Wash your hands before preparing food
Make sure lifeguards are on duty before you go in the water and follow all their instructions
Keep a supply of water close by as a precaution when handling fireworks
If you are going to cook on a grill, always supervise the grill when in use
Make sure the person lighting fireworks always wears eye protection
If you plan to swim in the ocean, a lake, or a river, be aware that swimming in these environments is different than swimming in a pool. Be sure you have the skills for these environments.
Keep the grill out in the open, away from the house, the deck, tree branches, or anything that could catch fire
Light only one firework at a time and never attempt to relight "a dud"
Provide close and constant attention to children you are supervising in or near water
Store fireworks in a cool, dry place away from children and pets
Fence pools and spas with adequate barriers, including four-sided fencing

These are just a few of the many ways that you can take precautions to make sure your holiday stays both fun and safe. There are all kinds of things you can do to celebrate with your friends and family to have a good time. It’s just important to be sure that you’ve taken all the precautions to keep everyone around you safe during the party. And a few steps to safety goes a long way to having fun.

As always, if disaster strikes, SERVPRO of Springfield and SERVPRO of Morgan, Cass, Macoupin & Montgomery Counties are always here for you. We can be reached 24/7 at 217-528-7775.

Replanting Your Lawn

6/4/2022 (Permalink)

Planting Grass

Whether it’s from a bad storm, flooding, fire, or even just normal wear and tear over time, it suffices to say that your lawn takes a beating. In Illinois where the weather can change minute to minute, anything housed outside is subject to the ever-changing weather elements. And unlike cars and flower pots that you can put into the garage or the house when the weather turns dark, your lawn is, quite literally, rooted in place. That’s why it’s so important to keep an eye on your lawn. And when you notice damage, you need to deal with it before it becomes bigger. But how do you fix grass in a way that doesn’t damage the rest of the lawn? Lowes has a step by step list of how to replant your lawn and help it grow in a healthy way;

Dig or till the ground to a 3-inch depth. Rake to remove clods and smooth out the surface. Remember that you're establishing a finished grade, so include any contours needed for drainage.
Add compost, topsoil band fertilizer, and then work them into the soil.
Spread the grass seed at the rate indicated on the packaging. To ensure even coverage, sow half of the seed in one direction and the other half in a different direction to make a crisscross pattern.
Rake the entire area again to cover the seeds with a small amount of soil. Mulch with a weed-free straw, such as wheat straw, or use an erosion control blanket to prevent the seed from blowing or washing away.
Water frequently to keep the seeds moist (don't saturate). Cut watering back to once a day when the grass reaches about 1 inch in height.
Mow when the grass reaches 2-1/2 to 3 inches. After you've mown three times, use a regular watering schedule of 1 inch per week. After mowing a minimum of four times, apply a crabgrass control product to stop the germination of unsightly crabgrass.

Even simple lawn grass must be taken care of properly in order to grow properly. Whether replanting your entire lawn or just a patch of it, it’s important to take good care of the grass when it’s in its early stages. Just because the pre-established grass in our lawns is pretty resilient on its own, doesn’t mean its early stages don’t need just as much care as a common house plant. So if you’re going through a lawn care phase, make sure you take good care of that budding grass all the way through.

As always, if disaster strikes, SERVPRO of Springfield and SERVPRO of Morgan, Cass, Macoupin & Montgomery Counties are always here for you. We can be reached 24/7 at 217-528-7775.

Happy Memorial Day from SERVPRO!

5/30/2022 (Permalink)

Memorial Day

From everyone here at SERVPRO of Springfield, we’d like to wish you and your family a very happy Memorial Day! On this decades-old holiday, we take time off from work and school to remember and honor those who have died in American wars and celebrate the freedom they helped secure for us all. To our veterans, their families, and the families of those who made the ultimate sacrifice, we extend our great thanks. However, as with any other holiday, we must make sure we take the necessary precautions to keep ourselves and our families safe as we celebrate. In such a spirit, Red Cross has a list of tips that can help keep you and your family safe this holiday;

When driving to see family, be sure and stay cautious when on crowded highways
If you plan on drinking alcohol during events, designate a driver who won’t drink to drive afterward
Always supervise a barbecue grill when it is in use
Keep active grills out in the open, away from the house, deck, tree branches, or anything that could catch fire
Make sure there are adults that are actively supervising children swimming in pools
Wear plenty of sunscreen during hot and sunny weather
Wear bug repellent and keep an eye out for mosquitoes and other dangerous insects
Keep track of your purses, wallets, and other personal items when in large crowds

Memorial Day can be a lot of fun when we spend the extra time off with those we care about. But that does not mean that we can forget to take the basic safety measures while we have that fun. So while you’re out there having fun, make sure you take the necessary precautions for yourself and your family. And make sure you take some time to thank the men and women who have made this holiday happen.

As always, if disaster strikes, SERVPRO of Springfield and SERVPRO of Morgan, Cass, Macoupin & Montgomery Counties are always here for you. We can be reached 24/7 at 217-528-7775.

Merry Christmas from SERVPRO!

12/25/2021 (Permalink)

Merry Christmas from everyone at SERVPRO of Springfield! We hope everyone has a fantastically fun holiday! We hope it’s a safe holiday as well. Despite all the holiday joy and cheer around us, it’s important to remember that there’s still plenty that can go wrong. Especially with all the extra decorations and people around for the holidays. So it’s important to still be ready for the worst while still having fun with your family. The National Safety Council (NSC) has a list of safety to keep in the back of your mind this Christmas season to keep you and your family safe;

Prepare your car for winter traveling and keep an emergency preparedness kit with you
Never leave candles or fireplaces burning unattended or when you are asleep
Be cautious about toys that have button batteries or magnets
Plan ahead for heavy traffic
Refrigerate hot or cold leftover food within two hours of being served
Designate a sober driver to ensure guests make it home safely after a holiday party
Choose toys for presents in the correct age range
Wash your hands frequently when handling food
Never nail, tack, or stress wiring when hanging lights
Keep your decorations away from potentially poisonous plants
Only use indoor lights indoors and outdoor lights outdoors
Use a screen on the fireplace at all times when a fire is burning

Just a few simple tips can keep your holiday celebration safe and fun. We all love spending time with our families and our presents during the holiday season. But it’s just as important to make sure our homes and families are safe from all the potential hazards that are present even on Christmas. So stay safe and have a very Happy Holidays.

Source: https://www.nsc.org

As always, if disaster strikes, SERVPRO of Springfield and SERVPRO of Morgan, Cass, Macoupin & Montgomery Counties are always here for you. We can be reached 24/7 at 217-528-7775.

Happy and Safe Turkey Day!

11/25/2021 (Permalink)

Happy Thanksgiving from everyone at SERVPRO of Springfield! We hope you have a great holiday whether it be spent on your own or with all your family. And we also hope that your turkey is as delicious as it can be. But before it hits the dinner table, make sure you know in advance how you’re handling the cooking of the turkey. Ever since the “I Want a Deep Fried Turkey” campaign from State Farm and William Shatner in 2011 and 2018, the decision to deep fry a turkey has become more popular. But like the song says, if you’re not careful you could end up with a massive fire that will ruin your celebration. Luckily, State Farm itself has a list of tips to keep your holiday safe if you decide to deep fry that turkey;

Keep outdoor fryers off decks, out of garages, and a safe distance away from trees and other structures
Make sure the turkey is thawed and dry before cooking
Place the fryer on a level surface
Leave 2 feet between the tank and the burner when using a propane-powered fryer
Follow the manufacturer's instructions to avoid overfilling
Choose a smaller turkey for frying
Never leave fryers unattended
Turn off the burner before lowering the turkey into the oil
Wear goggles to shield your eyes, use oven mitts to protect your hands and arms
Do not use water or a garden hose on a fire related to Turkey Fryers
Keep children and pets away from the fryer at all times
When done, cover it to let the oil cool overnight before disposing

Deep-fried turkey can be a delicious option for your Thanksgiving celebration. But in some ways, it can be an even more dangerous cooking method than your oven. With an open flame right above a pot of flammable oil, it can be easy for a split-second mistake to turn into a massive fire. So make sure you’re cooking safely and have a Happy Thanksgiving.

Source: https://www.statefarm.com

As always, if disaster strikes, SERVPRO of Springfield and SERVPRO of Morgan, Cass, Macoupin & Montgomery Counties are always here for you. We can be reached 24/7 at 217-528-7775.

Happy Halloween!

10/31/2021 (Permalink)

Happy Halloween from everyone at SERVPRO of Springfield! We hope all your costumes are amazing and your candy is sweet! But it’s also important to be safe while out candy hunting. With so many people and especially kids out and about in the dark on Halloween, accidents are at a much higher risk of happening. And no one wants their night of fun to end in disaster. Safe Kids Worldwide has a list of safety tips to keep yourself and your little ones safe this Halloween;

Cross the street at corners, using traffic signals and crosswalks. Look left, right, and left again when crossing, and keep looking as you cross.
Enter and exit driveways and alleys slowly and carefully
Put electronic devices down, keep heads up and walk, don’t run, across the street.
Turn your headlights on earlier in the day to spot children from greater distances.
Always walk on sidewalks or paths. If there are no sidewalks, walk facing traffic as far to the left as possible.
If driving, slow down and be especially alert in residential neighborhoods.
Join kids under age 12 for trick-or-treating
Have kids carry glow sticks or flashlights to help them see and be seen by drivers.
Decorate costumes and bags with reflective tape or stickers and, if possible, choose light colors

Halloween is one of the best nights of the year. A lot of fun costumes, delicious candy, and time to spend with family and friends. But all this fun has to be tempered by the awareness that accidents can still happen. And happen at a higher rate the later in the day it gets. So be prepared and keep your friends and family safe as well. Have a safe and happy Halloween!

Source: https://www.safekids.org

As always, if disaster strikes, SERVPRO of Springfield and SERVPRO of Morgan, Cass, Macoupin & Montgomery Counties are always here for you. We can be reached 24/7 at 217-528-7775.

Raking the Autumn Leaves

9/3/2021 (Permalink)

Raking the leaves off your lawn is one of the most tiresome parts of the fall weather. Unless you’re making a leaf pile for your kids to enjoy, it can seem like a never-ending job as more and more leaves fall every day. But perhaps there are other options for those pesky leaves that don’t involve a rake at all. HGTV has a list of unique ideas that could put those fallen leaves to better use;

Mow over the leaves to use for mulch
Make Leaf Mold near the base of your trees
Chop leaves for a Compost pile
Put the leaves beneath shrubs and in planting beds to provide winter protection for insects or small critters
Blow leaves away with a leaf blower
Add leaves to vegetable gardens to help protect roots from harsh winter weather
Use leaves for Art Projects
Try Community Recycling and give your leaves to someone who can use them

The falling leaves of autumn don’t necessarily have to be a pain in the butt. There are ways to make fall fun again, even if you’re too big to be jumping into those leaf piles. So get creative this fall and try a raking alternative.

Source: https://www.hgtv.com

As always, if disaster strikes, SERVPRO of Springfield and SERVPRO of Morgan, Cass, Macoupin & Montgomery Counties are always here for you. We can be reached 24/7 at 217-528-7775.

Is it Really Time for School Already?

8/5/2021 (Permalink)

It feels like summer just started, doesn't it? But despite how much many of us wish it weren't true, the back-to-school season is upon us. There's so much to plan for when it comes to returning to school. Whether your kids are starting kindergarten, or you're off to college, there's always a ton to do to prepare. To make sure you have everything you need for the new school year, the National Safety Council (NSC) has a list of tips you might've not thought of during your preparations;

Choose your backpacks based on both comfort and functionality
If your child mentions a playground head injury, make sure you get them examined
If your child walks to school, make sure they take the sidewalk when available
Use both straps when carrying a backpack to evenly distribute weight
If you have a new teen driver, practice with them at least once a week to build up experience
Do not overstuff your backpack
If your child rides a bike to school, make sure they have a helmet and a bike chain
When driving to school, make sure you obey the school zone speed limits
If your child rides the bus, teach them to stay away from the curb while waiting

Back to School season can be stressful. And while it's sad that the summer has ended, there's still a ton of fun to be had during the school year. Just remember that no matter what age your school-goers are, they can prepare to be safe and have a great year. So enjoy the 2021-2022 school year and all it has to offer.

Source: https://www.nsc.org

As always, if disaster strikes, SERVPRO of Springfield and SERVPRO of Morgan, Cass, Macoupin & Montgomery Counties are always here for you. We can be reached 24/7 at 217-528-7775.

Keep Cool with Summer Treats

7/5/2021 (Permalink)

Summer is a lot of fun. But who wants to spend any of it cooking and baking over their hot stove? In the summer we want something more sweet and cold. Most like an enjoyable splurge. But what can you make that’s unique and enjoyable to satisfy that sweet tooth? Luckily the folks at Yellow Bliss Road have a list of unique and tasty treat ideas with simple recipes that will make your summer even better;

Frozen Cheesecake Sandwiches
Strawberry Lemonade Ice Cream Float
Brownie Ice Cream Sundae Bars
Sour Cream Salad
Strawberry Lemonade Icebox Cake
Rainbow Jello Popsicles
Cherry Limeade Ice Cream Float
Mud Pie Ice Cream Cupcakes

With a little creativity and your favorite flavors, you can create some delicious frozen treats that are sure to be a big hit. Whether you’re enjoying them on your own or bringing them to a summer blockbuster party. So don’t go with the tried and true soft serve ice cream cups this summer. Get creative and see what delicious treats you can put together.

Source: https://www.yellowblissroad.com

As always, if disaster strikes, SERVPRO of Springfield and SERVPRO of Morgan, Cass, Macoupin & Montgomery Counties are always here for you. We can be reached 24/7 at 217-528-7775.

Preparing Your Home for Summer Vacations

6/4/2021 (Permalink)

safety - image of cartoon home and hardhat

When summer comes around, most of us enjoy going somewhere else every now and then on an extended vacation. But even during a time of relaxation, it’s important to remember that even while you’re gone, things can still go wrong in your home. And the bills of damage left unattended can wreak havoc both during and after your vacation. But fortunately, the TODAY Show has a list of helpful tips to prevent the unexpected damages while you’re away;

If able, set your water heater on “vacation mode”
Make sure storm drains are clean to prevent backups
Turn down the house temperature
Leave some of the lights on to make it appear that someone is home
Consider turning off your water while you’re away to prevent water damage
Mow your lawn before leaving to allow the freshly cut grass to absorb more rainwater
Lock your doors and windows
Consider investing in a monitor or camera to be able to check on your home while away

By remembering to take some simple steps, you can help ensure that your home is protected from a variety of damage. We all want to enjoy our vacations without stress, and it’s a simple task with the right preparation. With a bit of planning, you can make sure you come back to your home in the same condition you left it.

Source: https://www.today.com

As always, if disaster strikes, SERVPRO of Springfield and SERVPRO of Morgan, Cass, Macoupin & Montgomery Counties are always here for you. We can be reached 24/7 at 217-528-7775.

Moving Out of the Dorms

5/4/2021 (Permalink)

As the school year draws to a close, college students face the hardest part of their year. No, it’s not finals. It’s packing up a year’s worth of decor and furniture from their dorm rooms and taking it all back home. The task is both heartbreaking and joyful. It’s sad to pack up and head home most likely away from your friends. But it also signals three months of no homework or tests. Whatever your feelings towards the task, there’s no doubt it’s a big job even with help. Luckily, there are some simple tricks that you can do to make the process less of a pain. We have a helpful list of tips you can use to make the move out go smoothly;

Create a list ahead of time and decide what is essential and what is not
Plan in advance of how many trips or cars it will take to transport your belongings
Prepare bags and boxes before you begin
Have space at home ready to store the items
If you go home at some point during the second semester, take some of the nonessentials home on the trip
Use your study break time to pack
Consolidate as much as you can to save space
Label your boxes and bags so you can find items again
Pack delicate items with bedding and other soft objects to provide padding
Recruit willing friends and family to help
Leave appliances open a crack to allow air to circulate and prevent mold
Make sure your items are stored in a secure location

Packing up and moving out at any time is a chore to put up with. And for college students with finals at the same time, it can seem even worse. But with a little foreplanning and hard work, moving out of the dorm room doesn’t have to be the dark cloud hanging over the end of the school year. Happy Summer Break from everyone at SERVPRO of Springfield!

As always, if disaster strikes, SERVPRO of Springfield and SERVPRO of Morgan, Cass, Macoupin & Montgomery Counties are always here for you. We can be reached 24/7 at 217-528-7775.

SERVPRO Fights Covid-19

4/1/2021 (Permalink)

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned - technician in PPE

As COVID-19 continues to stick around at the beginning of 2021, we at SERVPRO are as committed as ever to keep your business clean so you can stay open. Our “Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned” is our most recent addition to our line-up of cleaning services. Created after the onset of the pandemic, our specialized viral pathogen-cleaning system prevents the spread of COVID-19 and we use it to clean your business top to bottom. And when it’s combined with our 50 years of cleaning experience, you can rest assured that your business is safe for customers and employees alike. Our cleaning process is rooted in what we call the 5 C’s;

Consult - We’ll come down to your business and inspect the layout, determining the best way to handle the business’s unique needs
Clean - Once we have our plan, we’ll begin the deep clean of your business, using hospital-grade equipment and cleaning solutions approved by the CDC
Certify - We’ll finish with our “Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned” shield posted in your window, showing all your customers that you’ve protected them and your business from COVID-19.

It could take several more months before our community gets back into the normal routine. And in the meantime, you can count on SERVPRO to be with you in the meantime. Call us anytime to set up a cleaning for your business.

Source: https://www.SERVPRO.com

As always, if disaster strikes, SERVPRO of Springfield and SERVPRO of Morgan, Cass, Macoupin & Montgomery Counties are always here for you. We can be reached 24/7 at 217-528-7775.

Poinsettias Don’t Have to be Christmas Exclusive

3/30/2021 (Permalink)

If your family is like my family, you probably got a poinsettia or two around the Christmas Season to decorate your home with. They’re beautiful flowers and bring a nice pop of Christmas color to your home. But most don’t last much beyond the Christmas season. This isn’t because potted poinsettias don’t last long. With the right know-how of how to care for them, a poinsettia can last for years. And you can even get them to bloom new flowers around Christmas time every year so you don’t have to buy new ones. Home Beautiful.com has a how-to list about the best way to care for your poinsettia all year round;

When bringing a poinsettia home, make sure to wrap it up in paper to protect it from draughts and cold temperatures
Always remember that the plant's root bale should neither dry out nor be drenched
If leaves are turning yellow or falling off, you're probably not watering it right
Water your poinsettia plant when the soil is noticeably dry
Mini poinsettias’ soil should be checked every day
Poinsettias prefer room-temperature water
Mini poinsettias should not be given more than one shot glass of water
If in doubt, it’s better to keep poinsettias a little drier rather than too moist
Poinsettias need warmth and light
Try to place poinsettias in a sheltered spot
Sufficient light is important for the plant to grow and thrive, and in the winter months, it is happy by a south-facing window
To ensure it survives until next year, you will need to prune the poinsettia in April
Repot in May and grow it in a cool and light place over summer
In November, give it 12 hours of bright daylight followed by 12 hours of complete darkness to alert it to the shorter days of winter, which will encourage the red flowers to return

You don’t have to buy a new poinsettia every year to get that nice Christmas floral arrangement. With some time and effort, you can get several years of use out of a single poinsettia. That not only saves you money in the long run but also gives you experience in taking care of unique household plants. So give your poinsettia a chance this year and see what you can do with this Christmas plant.

Source: https://www.housebeautiful.com

As always, if disaster strikes, SERVPRO of Springfield and SERVPRO of Morgan, Cass, Macoupin & Montgomery Counties are always here for you. We can be reached 24/7 at 217-528-7775.

Mask Hacks for an Easier Day

3/1/2021 (Permalink)

As we near the year-long mark of the pandemic, many have gone back to work or school in some form or another. And if they have, there’s no doubt they have new rules that require masks to be worn during the day. While wearing them every now and then to go to the store is one thing, wearing them all day, all week is quite another. The constant pull of the straps on the ears can be painful and could actually develop sores on the ears if done too often. Luckily, a year-long pandemic has given rise to a vast number of tricks to make wearing your mask much easier on your ears. The helpful nurses as Nurse.org have shared their favorite hacks for making masked days easier;

Sew a button onto a hat to hook the mask onto
Wrap the straps into a high hair bun
Wearing a strap connector behind the head
Attach the straps to a headband
Use rubber bands and a paper clip to extend the strap lengths

Whether you use any of the ideas or your own creative ideas, there can be any number of ways to protect your ears. Face masks are great for protection from the current virus crisis, but sometimes we can forget about the little problems that pop up during a big change such as this. So give these tricks a try and protect your ears.

Source: https://nurse.org

As always, if disaster strikes, SERVPRO of Springfield and SERVPRO of Morgan, Cass, Macoupin & Montgomery Counties are always here for you. We can be reached 24/7 at 217-528-7775.

Things to do While You Wait for the Vaccine

3/1/2021 (Permalink)

Vaccines are finally being distributed in the United States! But even still, getting one to every single person in the country is a slow process. And those who are further down on the list to receive one will most likely be waiting a few months to finally get their turn. Even as distributions continue, many restaurants and family fun destinations are still closed or extremely limited. And even most electronic devices have become overdone. So what can you do while normal life still seems so far away? Well, you can try some of these unique activities courtesy of “The Thirty”;

Meditate
Offer to help a neighbor
Work out
Go to the grocery store for someone who has to work
Take a bath
Donate blood
Journal
Write letters to friends
Take a walk outside
Take a nap
Read a book
Clean and organize your home
Sing

These are just a few of the things you can do to not only pass the time but also benefit yourself and others at the same time. No matter what stage of the pandemic we are in, life still marches on. So take it upon yourself to do something productive while you wait for your turn to get the vaccine.

Source: https://thethirty.whowhatwear.com

As always, if disaster strikes, SERVPRO of Springfield and SERVPRO of Morgan, Cass, Macoupin & Montgomery Counties are always here for you. We can be reached 24/7 at 217-528-7775.

Five Must-Read Ice Skating Safety Tips

1/3/2021 (Permalink)

Winter isn’t nearly behind us yet here in the Pacific Northwest, which means you still have plenty of time to adopt a new wintertime hobby to get you off the couch, out of the house, and expand your horizons. Ice skating is a fun and challenging activity that is perfect for families, couples, and friends of all ages. Before you lace up your skates, review our ice skating safety tips below. While we value our patients, we’d rather not see you in one of our urgent care centers with a nasty sprain or strain.

Wear a Helmet. Every year about 50 out of every 100,000 Americans suffer a concussion—an immediate and brief loss of consciousness followed by temporary amnesia after a blow to the head. You wear a helmet to ride your bike, rollerblade, or skateboard (we hope!), so why wouldn’t you wear a helmet when you strap blades to your feet and glide across the ice? Ask your neighborhood ice rink if they have helmets for rent. If not, bring your own. Make sure it fits snug, and don’t obsess over what it will do to your hair. What’s most important is that you avoid a potentially dangerous concussion if you slip and fall.

Ensure Your Skates Fit Properly. Whether you are buying, borrowing, or renting ice skates, make sure they fit comfortably. Be like Goldilocks and choose skates that are neither too tight, nor too large. A good-fitting pair of ice skates should support your ankles and feet.

Practice Falling. Seriously. Broken, strained, cut, and dislocated arms are among the most common ice skating-related injuries. Before you step onto the ice, take a few purposeful drops to the ground so that you can practice how to brace yourself. Your goal should be to protect your head and to keep your limbs away from sharp skate blades. Consider wearing wrist pads to make it easier to grip the ice and keep your arms from sliding out from beneath you.

Check Your Blades. Dull ice skate blades put you at a higher risk of a fall, and trust us when we say that a broken coccyx (tailbone) can be extremely painful. A reputable ice skating rink will keep their rental skates in proper condition, but it is always a good practice to check your skates yourself. Properly sharpened blades should have a slight curve. If your blades appear flat, exchange them.

Keep a Space Cushion Around You. Novice skaters can put those around them at risk by grabbing onto them if they start to fall. If you’re a newbie, try not to skate too close to others around you. The last thing you want to do is be the cause of a painful injury for someone else.

If you want to head out for an evening of ice skating that will make you feel like you’re living in a Hallmark original movie, then make sure you take precautions to skate safely. Even though what’s terrific about ice skating is that anyone can do it, don’t take the safety realities for granted. Gear up, stay aware and be safe out there, skaters.

Source: nova health.com

SERVPRO of Springfield and SERVPRO of Morgan, Cass, Macoupin & Montgomery Counties are always here to help 24/7 at 217-528-7775.

Everyone Can Make New Year’s Eve Celebrations Safer

12/29/2020 (Permalink)

If you are celebrating the New Year with people outside your household, make sure you follow steps to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Wear a mask

Wear a mask with two or more layers to stop the spread of COVID-19 to protect others and yourself.
Wear your mask over your nose and mouth, secure it under your chin, and make sure it fits snugly against the sides of your face.
Wear a mask indoors and outdoors.
In cold weather, wear your mask under your scarf, ski mask, or balaclava.
Keep a spare mask in case your mask becomes wet from moisture in your breath or from snow or rain.

Stay at least 6 feet apart

Stay 6 feet away from others who do not live with you.
Indoors or outdoors, you are more likely to get or spread COVID-19 when you are in close contact with others for a total of 15 minutes or more over a 24-hour period.
It is especially important for people who are at higher risk of getting very sick to stay 6 feet (about 2 arm lengths) from other people.

Avoid crowds and poorly ventilated indoor spaces

The more people you are in contact with, the more likely you are to be exposed to COVID-19.
Avoid gatherings and celebrations with a lot of people that make staying 6 feet apart from those who don’t live with you difficult.
Avoid indoor spaces as much as possible, especially ones that aren’t well ventilated.
If indoors, open windows and doors. Use a window fan to blow air out, which will pull fresh air in through the open windows.

Wash your hands

Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after you have been in a public place, after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing and before eating.
Make sure to dry your hands completely using a clean towel or by air drying.
If soap and water aren’t available, use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
Avoid touching your mask, eyes, nose, and mouth.

Stay home if you are sick

Stay home if you are sick, except to get medical care.
Isolate yourself from other members of your family and wear a mask.
Even if you don’t feel sick, you can still spread COVID-19 to others.

Get a flu shot as soon as possible

By getting a flu shot, you can also help lower hospital visits and serious health problems from flu.
The flu shot can help protect you and your family, friends, and community from getting and spreading flu.

COVID-19 vaccines

While it is possible that some people may receive COVID-19 vaccines before New Year’s Eve, continue taking steps to protect yourself and others for some time to come.

Safer New Year’s Celebrations with Friends and Family

Staying home and celebrating with the people you live with or celebrating virtually with loved ones is the safest choice this year. Do not attend large gatherings this year. If you do host or attend a small gathering, everyone can take steps to make celebrating the New Year more safe.

If you host a celebration

Keep celebrations outdoors, if possible.
If indoors, open windows and doors. Use a window fan to blow air out, which will pull fresh air in through the open windows.
Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces and items between use.
Have guests bring their own food, drinks, plates, cups, and utensils.
Have extra unused masks available for your guests and encourage everyone to wear them inside and outside.
Keep background music volume low so guests don’t need to shout.
It’s okay if you decide to postpone or cancel your gathering. Do what’s best for you.

If you attend a celebration

Talk with guests ahead of time to set expectations for celebrating together.Limit the number of guests.
It’s okay if you decide to stay home and remain apart from others. Do what’s best for you.
If traveling for a celebration, know what to do before, during, and after travel.
Bring your own food, drinks, and disposable plates, cups, and utensils.
Wear a mask indoors and outdoors and safely store your mask while eating and drinking.
Avoid alcohol and drugs that can alter judgment and make it difficult to practice COVID-19 safety measures.
Avoid shouting and singing.
Avoid areas where food is prepared, such as the kitchen.
Use single-use options, like condiment packets.

Consider Other Activities to Celebrate New Year’s

Have virtual celebrations with loved ones

Attend a virtual concert or performance.
Plan a virtual countdown to midnight with friends.
Enjoy a virtual dinner or dessert with friends and family.

Plan a New Year’s party for the people you live with

Decorate, play music, and have a dance party with the people you live with.
Have a pajama party and watch your favorite movies or play games.
Plan a special meal or dessert with your family.

Reach out to family, friends, and neighbors

Call, text, or leave a voicemail for family, friends, and neighbors wishing them a happy new year.
Call friends and family to count down to the new year together.
Plan a neighborhood countdown to midnight. People who live with each other can stand in front of their house and cheer together at midnight.

Other ideas

Watch a livestreamed firework display, concert, First Night event, or other New Year’s programming from your home, such as the Times Square New Year’s Eve ball drop. Virtual events are happening across the United States.
Take care of yourself and do something you enjoy, such as reading a book or taking a walk.
Pick up a special meal from a local restaurant to share with your household.
Plan an outdoor activity with people you live with such as a hike or sledding.
Set new year resolutions. Find out if your hometown is sponsoring a special social media event and share your resolutions.

Source: cdc.gov

Five Must-Read Ice Skating Safety Tips

12/29/2020 (Permalink)

Wear a Helmet. Every year about 50 out of every 100,000 Americans suffer a concussion—an immediate and brief loss of consciousness followed by temporary amnesia after a blow to the head. You wear a helmet to ride your bike, rollerblade, or skateboard (we hope!), so why wouldn’t you wear a helmet when you strap blades to your feet and glide across the ice? Ask your neighborhood ice rink if they have helmets for rent. If not, bring your own. Make sure it fits snug, and don’t obsess over what it will do to your hair. What’s most important is that you avoid a potentially dangerous concussion if you slip and fall.

Ensure Your Skates Fit Properly. Whether you are buying, borrowing, or renting ice skates, make sure they fit comfortably. Be like Goldilocks and choose skates that are neither too tight, nor too large. A good-fitting pair of ice skates should support your ankles and feet.

Practice Falling. Seriously. Broken, strained, cut, and dislocated arms are among the most common ice skating-related injuries. Before you step onto the ice, take a few purposeful drops to the ground so that you can practice how to brace yourself. Your goal should be to protect your head and to keep your limbs away from sharp skate blades. Consider wearing wrist pads to make it easier to grip the ice and keep your arms from sliding out from beneath you.

Check Your Blades. Dull ice skate blades put you at a higher risk of a fall, and trust us when we say that a broken coccyx (tailbone) can be extremely painful. A reputable ice skating rink will keep their rental skates in proper condition, but it is always a good practice to check your skates yourself. Properly sharpened blades should have a slight curve. If your blades appear flat, exchange them.

Keep a Space Cushion Around You. Novice skaters can put those around them at risk by grabbing onto them if they start to fall. If you’re a newbie, try not to skate too close to others around you. The last thing you want to do is be the cause of a painful injury for someone else.

Source: nova health.com

SERVPRO of Springfield and SERVPRO of Morgan, Cass, Macoupin & Montgomery Counties are always here to help 24/7 at 217-528-7775.

SERVPRO Provides More Than Fire & Water Restoration

12/22/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO employees working hard & doing their job in customers homes.

SERVPRO is more than just fire & water restoration. When most people hear the name SERVPRO they automatically think of fire & water restoration, however, we are so much more. Did you spill a glass of wine on your favorite chair? Did animals get into your attic causing a mess? Did you find mold in your basement? No worries...we've got you covered!

Our list of services include:

Water Damage Restoration
Fire Damage Restoration
Mold Mitigation & Remediation
Air Duct & HVAC Cleaning
Carpet & Hard Floor Cleaning
Upholstery & Drapes Cleaning
Post Construction Cleaning
Crime Scene, Biohazard, & Vandalism Cleanup
Deodorization
Reconstruction Services
Storm Damage Cleanup

SERVPRO of Springfield and SERVPRO of Morgan, Cass, Macoupin & Montgomery Counties are always Here To Help. Contact us today at 217-528-7775 for more information and to answer any questions you may have.

Tips to Dispose of Your Christmas Tree

12/22/2020 (Permalink)

One of the best things about the holiday is picking out that perfect Christmas tree at your local tree farm, bringing it home and decorating with the family. Once the work is done there is just nothing better than enjoying the beautiful glow of the lights and enjoying that wonderful fresh tree smell for weeks to come.

We have come up with a few ideas for you to entertain:

Create a Brush Pile for Birds and Wildlife
Use your dead Christmas tree to create a brush pile, you can find twigs, leaves, and logs in your yard, the Christmas tree can be used as a base. The dead tree will not only offer the much-needed protection from chill to the animals but also act as a source of food.
Create a DIY bird sanctuary
It’s a nice idea if you keep the tree at a strategic point in the garden and place some birdhouses and feeders on or in it. This way, the birds can appreciate your tree, too. You can also go a step further and decorate it, and fill bird feeders with edible seeds and hang them from the branches/boughs to attract the birds to their new home.
Replant it for the next Christmas
If you’ve bought a living Christmas tree with the root ball intact, it’s a good idea to replant it for the next Christmas, it might be more than 11 months from now but that only gives us all the more reasons to start early.
Edge flowerbeds and walkways
Instead of using it for a bonfire, slice up the trunk of your Christmas tree into thin discs and use them to edge walkways and flowerbeds. This is not only a good way to use your Christmas tree but also beautiful and functional.
Keep your perennials warm
You can cut off the boughs from the Christmas tree and lay them around the root of the perennial plants, this mulching will protect them from cold temperature and also reduce the chances of frost heaving.
As pot risers
If you have a decent size Christmas tree, you can cut the trunk into pieces of different lengths and use them as pot risers or you can get creative with it and make a rolling plant stand out of it. If you’re not satisfied with the natural looks and want to protect the wood from deterioration, varnish or paint the tree stump pieces.
Suppressing the weeds
Instead of sawing and splitting it, you can rent a chipper and mash up the trunk into chips. During the next season, you can spread these wood chips as a mulch under your plants, this will suppress the growth of weeds. Also, remember that when decomposed, this wood chip mulch will enrich your soil.
Use it to stake plants
A majority of dead Christmas tree varieties are typically sturdy in nature. And you can use this to your advantage. Strip away the branches and use them to support your plants.
Create habitat for the fishes
If you or your neighbor has a pond or if you live near a lake, give your Christmas tree a proper send-off by tossing its branches in the water. But before you do this— Remove all the needles and tie something into the middle, like a cinder block, a stone or something as heavy. During the harsh winter months, the fish can find warm refuge beneath the branches. Nonetheless, make sure that the dead tree is chemical-free before throwing it overboard.

Source: balconygardenweb.com

We are always here to help!
Contact SERVPRO of Springfield and SERVPRO of Morgan, Cass, Macoupin & Montgomery Counties at 217-528-7775 for all of your restoration needs.

Merry Christmas!

12/14/2020 (Permalink)

evergreen trees covered in snow and one with Christmas lights

Merry Christmas from our SERVPRO of Springfield family to yours!

December 14th Blog - MERRY CHRISTMAS - Why SERVPRO

Christmas is my all-time favorite holiday. I definitely love the decorating and the lights but what I love most is it’s truly a time for giving and goodwill. It’s a time we can take a step back and find true joy in our giving spirits. A time when we can forgive a little easier and a little quicker. A time when we can reflect on the things that really matter and prioritize our wants vs needs. We tend to be a little more generous with strangers and we appreciate our friends and family even more than any other time of year. This is when we are able to really teach our children and the next generations what it’s like to share our time, our kindness, and our goodwill with others. We show our children how good it feels to know you have helped someone that may not even know you helped them. One of my favorite quotes for Christmas comes from Ruth Carter Stapleton,

“Christmas is most truly Christmas when we celebrate it by giving the light of love to those who need it most.”

This year has been a very difficult year for many of us. I truly hope we can end the year with a determination to find empathy for others, to find the courage to always do the right thing for ourselves and for those around us, to be kind to someone who may not be kind to us because maybe a little kindness is all they need, and to work on growing our own character. Let us be willing to listen to and support each other. Let us be thankful for each other and for the love and care we have received in our lifetime.

SERVPRO of Springfield is so incredibly thankful for the good people in our organization and for our amazing customers. Merry Christmas to you all and to all a goodnight.

Happy Thanksgiving!

11/16/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Springfield is thankful for you!

Thanksgiving; what does it mean to you? According to Merriam-Webster dictionary:

thanksgiving noun

thanks·?giv·?ing | \ tha?(k)s-'gi-vi? also 'tha?(k)s-?gi- \

Definition of thanksgiving

a capitalized : THANKSGIVING DAY

b a public acknowledgment or celebration of divine goodness

2 the act of giving thanks

3 a prayer expressing gratitude

Being Thankful is one of those beautiful gifts that we all have. It’s something we all have equal rights to, no matter our economic status, no matter our age, no matter our size, color, or where we live. We all have the ability and opportunity to find something to be thankful for in our life. I’m so incredibly thankful to live in a country that celebrates and work for a company that truly lives by this. Here at SERVPRO of Springfield, we are incredibly thankful for our growing business. We have amazing customers that we truly appreciate and feel honored to be able to help in their times of need. We are here to help.

Please take this wonderful opportunity this year to truly reflect and appreciate the blessings in your life. I know this year has been a very difficult year for many people. I hope we find ways in our day to day lives to help make others thankful as well. I find it doesn't really take a whole lot of time or money to pass on gratitude to those around us. Allow a car to go ahead of you in traffic, open a door for someone going into a store, give genuine compliments to someone, or if you can, pay it forward in a drive-through line. These things really do not take much effort but they may be exactly what that person needs to brighten a really bad day. One of my favorite quotes happens to be by John F. Kennedy, “As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words but to live by them.”

We wish you and your loved ones a Happy Thanksgiving!

As always, if disaster strikes, SERVPRO of Springfield is serving Sangamon, Macoupin, Morgan, Cass, and Montgomery counties and is always here for you. We can be reached 24/7 at 217-528-7775.

Happy Halloween

10/22/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Springfield, your local water and fire restoration company, proudly serving you for over 35 years.

Halloween is such a fun time for families. It’s been a tradition for most of us and for many years. It has certainly changed throughout the years. When I was a child, growing up in a fairly small town, my brother and I along with several other neighborhood kids would set out on a mission to collect as much candy as we could. I remember the older kids pointing out to us which houses had the “good” candy, which ones were only suckers, and yes, we had a few dreaded homes that had the nerve to just pass out apples. We avoided them altogether, after all, who had time to stop for an apple? The only rules I recall were to stay together and don’t get in cars with strangers. We followed these two simple rules and turned out great. We made some great memories and scored some major candy. It was like heaven on earth for a kid.

Fast forward a few years, ahem, or maybe a few decades would be a better description, Halloween celebrations have slowly changed. We have become much more aware of safety for our children from their costumes to their supervision. We are certainly more careful of the amount of candy they eat in one sitting as well as the packaging of each piece of candy, watching for anything that may have been tampered with by someone else. Of course this year, we are dealing with COVID-19 and trying to do the right thing for our children, our neighbors, and our community.

The CDC has many recommendations for different counties. I understand in most cities, they have also implemented guidelines to follow. The CDC has set up an excellent website that is interactive and gives some guidelines as to what they recommend in your county based on the number of positive cases in that county. I recommend you check out the CDC website to help you and your family have a healthy, fun, and frightful Halloween.

As always, if disaster strikes, SERVPRO of Springfield is serving Sangamon, Macoupin, Morgan, Cass, and Montgomery counties and is always here for you. We can be reached 24/7 at 217-528-7775.

ERP and Your Business

8/24/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Springfield offers a great opportunity to our fellow business owners called an Emergency Ready Profile (ERP). Most businesses have some sort of disaster plan in place. It usually consists of a map and a book with pertinent information all located in one general area. This is great to have in place and definitely is valuable to you and your coworkers during normal business hours. Our program is a great addition to any program you have in place and if you don't have a program in place, it is an extremely effective way to keep everyone on the same page in case of a loss.

Our Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) is a comprehensive look at your building, photos and descriptions of all possible loss locations as well as the contact information associated with each department. You and anyone of your maintenance crews, boards of directors, supervisors, anyone you trust to take care of your business, will have this information at their fingertips. You will have access to this wherever you are via our app. You would quickly be able to identify which furnace is not working or which water fountain is leaking. Our program is extremely valuable during a water loss or fire. Since our comprehensive program is accessible electronically, you and your staff will be able to log in to your ERP from any laptop, computer, ipad, or even your own phone.

Our ERP's are designed to help streamline communication for all those involved. We understand that losses happen, the better prepared we are to handle them, the more quickly we can get those losses handled, the quicker you can get back to business as usual.

SERVPRO of Springfield offers this great opportunity to you and your commercial business at ZERO cost to you.

SERVPRO of Springfield is here for you and your restoration needs 24/7. You can reach us at 217-528-7775.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned - a defensive cleaning program

6/10/2020 (Permalink)

table tent signs describing the Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned program on top of wooden table top

Our defensive cleaning program gives your business a way forward by providing your employees and customers ongoing safety and assuredness.

Let us help you get back to business

As our communities re-open, we’re all moving back toward a new kind of normal. The expectations of visitors, customers, and employees who come into our establishments have evolved, and staying safe and well is a top concern. 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.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is a defensive cleaning program we’re offering to businesses and commercial locations to address the current COVID-19 pandemic. This proactive viral pathogen 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

When the stakes are this high, 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 touchpoints, foot traffic, and congestion points.
Clean – Based on your specific business needs, your location will undergo a thorough, deep clean, using exclusive cleaning products, according to protocols set forth by the CDC. Our employees have years of experience, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff performs. Cleanup procedures generally include cleaning of porous and non-porous surfaces, disinfecting of non-porous surfaces, cleaning and disinfecting of equipment, tools, and/or supplies used for the cleanup process, and disposal of hazardous materials. In the event of a suspected or confirmed COVID-19 event, we will be there cleaning within 24 hours to ensure you get back to business as quickly as possible.
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

We’re Here to Help – 24 hours a day, seven days a week – until life is back to normal in the communities we all call home.

Call SERVPRO of Springfield today at 217-528-7775 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.

CONGRATULATIONS 2020 Graduates

6/8/2020 (Permalink)

this picture shows a group of young med and women seated from the back wearing graduation caps and gowns

Congratulations to all of the 2020 graduates!

SERVPRO of Springfield would like to extend our heartfelt warm wishes to the class of 2020. We understand this has probably not been the senior year you all planned. My hope is that you are able to persevere and overcome the huge challenges and obstacles that have been thrown in your path this year. Getting through this hard time has shown your strength, your compassion, and your ability to adapt. These are amazing characteristics that will continue to get you through hard times in the future. It's also really important for you to see how brave and capable you have been. It truly helps us to realize how blessed we are in the great times and appreciate and savor those good memories. My hope for you is that you have been able to see the good in yourself and others through this ordeal.

Mr. Rogers said “Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping”. This is one of my favorite quotes because it's timeless. When you were a child you needed a lot of help, as you grow older you realize you will always need guidance and will always be able to learn from others but you too are able to help. You become the helper and it's a beautiful thing. No matter what vocation you choose, no matter where you end up in life, you can always be a helper. You will always find a helper when in need. You just have to look around and ask and you will find what you need to succeed and you will be able to help others succeed.

I hope you continue to grow, I hope you continue to learn, and I hope you continue to celebrate your accomplishments!

We are so incredibly proud of all you!! Congratulations graduates of 2020!!

We are Cleaning Experts

3/17/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need

During this unprecedented time caused by the global pandemic of coronavirus, this is a reminder to our customers that we are specialists in cleaning services, and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards.

Specialized Training

We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform on a daily basis.

The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets and tables. Other spaces mentioned in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces include:

Kitchen/Food Areas
Bathrooms
Schools/Classrooms
Offices
Retail Spaces
Water Fountains
Shelving/Racks
Sales Counters
Carpets and Rugs
Stair Handrails
Elevator Cars
Playground Equipment
Fitness Equipment

Specialized Products

The CDC recommends usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar pathogens to the coronavirus. Multiple products in the SERVPRO product line carry the EPA-approved emerging pathogens claims. While there is currently no product tested against this particular strain of the coronavirus, we are following all guidelines as provided by the CDC and local authorities.

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning

If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of Springfield, 217-528-7775.

Sources:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/guidance-prevent-spread.html?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fguidance-prevent-spread.html

SERVPRO is Here for YOU!

3/16/2020 (Permalink)

As always, if disaster strikes, SERVPRO of Springfield, Sangamon, Morgan, Cass, and Montgomery counties is always here for you. We can be reached 24/7 at 217-528-7775.

Christmas Tree Care

12/11/2019 (Permalink)

Christmas time is here! We have brought you some tips to keep your lovely Christmas tree fresh and vibrant, longer.

Be careful during transport. Making sure you take extra care before your tree even goes in your home will be important for keeping it fresh. Use care not to break branches or bend the thin part at the top. Also, you should prepare the truck for water and care. Make a 1-inch slice off the bottom of the trunk where the tree was cut to allow it to soak up nutrients and water when you place it in your home.

Select a longer-lasting variety of trees, to begin with. This means buying as local as possible so that your tree is fresh and grown in an environment that is sustainable and ideal. IF you can, pick a local tree farm to go and select a fresh cut tree if possible. If there are no local tree farms, your next best bet is to cut one yourself by obtaining a permit from the Forest Service. As a last resort, buy from a tree stand but make sure you feel the needles first. They should not fall off when touched or the tree is not fresh and could be more than a week past its cut date.

Make sure to get your tree in water as soon as possible. It needs water as soon as possible and plenty of it during its duration. Make sure the water is not too cold, which can actually “shock” the tree.

Add nutrients to your tree’s water. There are several tips and tricks for the right nutrients to feed your tree, and there are certainly tree foods you can buy as well. The bottom line is all your tree needs is a sugar source and plenty of water. This can be as simple as adding a couple of tablespoons of plain sugar in your tree’s water and watching to make sure there is always plenty of fresh water in your tree stand.

Choose a good location for your tree. Make sure it is far away from anything that could dry it out, not only for preservation's sake but for safety. This means not placing it near baseboard heaters, fans, vents, or in direct sunlight. A dry location will make your effort to keep it well watered pointless.

Switch to LED lights. Consider using newer LED bulbs for lights on your tree. They produce less heat and therefore, will not be as drying.

Keep a good eye on your water level. Check once or twice a day as some trees tend to be very thirsty. Every time you add water, make sure it is warm and has a tablespoon of sugar dissolved in it.

Try running a humidifier. In the cold and drying months, running a humidifier in the room your tree is in can help prevent your tree from drying out. This is actually really good to do for your own health as well!

We wish you a warm, happy, and SAFE holiday!

As always, if disaster strikes, SERVPRO of Springfield, Sangamon, Morgan, Cass, and Montgomery counties is always here for you. We can be reached 24/7 at 217-528-7775

Duct Cleaning

12/4/2019 (Permalink)

Cleaning the air ducts in your home or office is often overlooked but often a very important way to maintain a healthy environment. It’s not always needed, that’s why it is important to call in the professionals. SERVPRO of Springfield will come to your home or office and inspect the ducts to determine if they do need to be cleaned. Once our experts have determined the ducts are in need of cleaning, our crew will take great care to clean each duct, air return, and HVAC system. We have taken the liberty to put together a checklist for you to more easily determine if duct cleaning is needed in your home or office.

Renovation - Has your home or office been recently remodeled? We recommend ducts and return vents to be completely closed off during a renovation but if you have had asbestos abate removed, lead paint removed, or mold we suggest you have your ducts cleaned once the work is complete.

Animals - If you have had an infestation of little critters that crawl or fly, having the ducts cleaned will alleviate any bacteria left behind. Even if you have a house pet that sheds, it’s a good idea to have those ducts cleaned professionally.

Mold - If mold is visible on or around the vents, it’s usually recommended to have the ducts cleaned.

Contaminants - If there is noticeable debris such as an accumulation of dust or hair or if there is an unexplained odor, it is time to call the experts at SERVPRO of Springfield to have an evaluation.

If any of these are an issue for your home or office, please be sure to call SERVPRO of Springfield. Our experts are here for you. As always, if disaster strikes, SERVPRO of Springfield, Sangamon, Morgan, Cass, and Montgomery Counties is always here for you. We can be reached 24/7 at 217-528-7775.

Fireplace Safety Tips

12/3/2019 (Permalink)

fireplace with someone sitting in front holding a mug

SERVPRO of Springfield is here for you and your restoration needs. We are your experts and will be here for you in your time of distress. Our crews are trained to take great care in restoring your home and belongings. We are available to you 24/7. Although our business is to restore your home, we also realize prevention is key to keeping everyone safe this winter. The thought of snuggling up in front of a beautiful fireplace sounds like heaven, right? Let’s take a few minutes to make sure that little bit of heaven is safe for you and your family. Our biggest concern is keeping folks safe and happy so here are a few pointers to help keep everyone healthy.

Make sure your carbon monoxide detectors are working. Carbon monoxide kills 4,000 people and sickens another 10,000 every year. Keep those carbon monoxide detectors in good shape.
Install a chimney cap. A lot of older homes have flues or chimneys’ without caps. This can cause major issues for you and your family. You can get a number of animal infestations at the top of your chimney and never know it until you start a fire.
Clear the area. Fireplaces get hot enough to scald plants and damage other things. Embers sometimes pop out and can catch carpets or rugs, magazines and other sundries on fire.
Keep the fires small and manageable. Building too big of a fire risks overheating your firebricks and cracking them, causing permanent damage to your fireplace and making it unsafe to use. There should be ample room on all sides for your wood when it’s stacked and ready to burn.
Never use flammable liquids! No charcoal, no lighter fluid, no kerosene, no gasoline. It’s incredibly dangerous and could cause you to get injured or killed or start a fire outside the fireplace.
Don’t throw trash or wrapping paper in the fire. There are all kinds of reasons not to toss random trash in the fire, but we’re going to go with the fact that chemicals may be in it and it’s not safe to breathe. Plastics and foams are especially bad about this. Wrapping paper is just dangerous to burn, it can spark and flame outside your fireplace.
Take advantage of your spark guard. Even the most perfectly seasoned wood will occasionally spark, so be prepared. Always use your spark guard, whether it’s a mesh curtain or a glass door.

We want all our readers to be as safe as possible. As always, if disaster strikes, SERVPRO of Springfield, Sangamon, Morgan, Cass, and Montgomery Counties is always here for you. We can be reached 24/7 at 217-528-7775.

Toxic Mold

11/25/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Springfield are exactly the professionals you need in the unfortunate event you find you have a mold problem in your home or office. Our experts are trained and certified to eliminate mold. We understand mold can be an inconvenience and we also educate our customers, it can be far more serious and needs a highly trained expert to alleviate the issue. Mold is sometimes difficult to detect if it’s not out in the open and clearly visible. If you cannot visibly see the mold, it's best to contact an industrial hygienist to come in a test for mold.

Any mold that produces mycotoxins—the “myco” refers to fungus. One of the more alarming varieties is Stachybotrys chartarum: Dense, black, and usually present where moisture has been a long-term, unresolved issue, like a damp basement or in an abandoned home, this fungus can trigger a suite of health issues. All molds should be treated the same with respect to potential health risks and removal.” These are the signs of mold that you should be looking out for.

Outside of physical symptoms you may be experiencing from mold in your home or office, you may see signs on the walls. Watch for bubbling paint in your bathroom or near windows. These locations notoriously have high volumes of moisture which are a breeding ground for mold.
Keeping your bathroom exhaust fan clean is a great way to keep mold at bay. If your bathroom is still steamy after 10 minutes of running your exhaust fan, it might be a good idea to clean it thoroughly.
If you find a continuous must smell in your home or office, this could be an indication of mold. It’s a good idea to call an expert to professionally clean.

As always, if disaster strikes, SERVPRO of Springfield, Sangamon, Morgan, Cass, and Montgomery Counties is always here for you. We can be reached 24/7 at 217-528-7775.

Customer Service is Our Priority

11/14/2019 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO of Springfield we pride ourselves on the GREAT service we provide our customers. We understand when our phone rings, it’s likely because you have suffered some sort of a loss. We are always open, when you make that first call you will talk to a real person. Our staff are genuinely caring people that want the best for you and to understand your circumstance and gather all the information so we can get you on your way to “Like it never even happened”.

We abide by a formula that is designed specifically to provide our customers with the highest quality of service. When we receive your initial call, we gather information and then forward your information to our experts. Our customers will receive a call back within an hour from our experts in the field to make an appointment to walk through and assess the damage. Our expert will be at your home within 4 hours to meet you to create an estimate. Within 8 hours of your initial call to our office, we will have our crew in your home taking care of your belongings.

Most of the time, we are even ahead of this time frame. Our ultimate goal is to make our customers happy with our service, our work, and our attitudes.

Great service is a bit of a lost art with most companies these days. Here at SERVPRO we understand and pride ourselves on making this process as easy as possible for our customers. Providing excellent customer service is one way we set ourselves apart in this industry. We are constantly striving to improve and go above and beyond to surprise our customers with the absolute best service.

Our Customer Service Representatives are experts in their field. Our team has over 60 years of combined experience and are certified in WRT, ASD, Microbial Contamination & Remediation, and many other qualifications. The knowledge and experience our Customer Service Representatives bring to each job are reflected in the work we provide our customers. Our Customer Service Representatives, our crew, and our staff are well trained and work hard to provide excellent results in every task. Hard work is second nature to our team.

Here at SERVPRO of Springfield, our attitude reflects in every job we take. We are of a ONE TEAM mindset. We work hard together to get the job done and done with knowledge and training. Setting our customers' minds at ease, knowing they have hired a truly professional company with caring people. Our customers appreciate the fact they can relax knowing they have a leader of the industry taking care of them.

Customer Service is not a lost art at SERVPRO of Springfield. It is practiced in every job we do. Our number one priority is our Customer.

As always, when disaster strikes, SERVPRO of Springfield and Sangamon, Morgan, Cass, Montgomery Counties is always here for you. We can be reached 24/7 at 217-528-7775.

What An ERP Can Do For Your Business

8/20/2019 (Permalink)

According to FEMA, almost 40% of small businesses fail to reopen after a disaster. And to make things worse, the United States Small Business Administration found that over 90% of businesses close within 2 years of a disaster. But despite these alarming statistics, you can mitigate the impact of a disaster if you make preparations in advance. One of the easiest ways you can begin preparation is by creating an Emergency Ready Profile.

An Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) is a document that is comprised of your business' vital information. It includes emergency contact information, utility shut-off locations, and other information you or your employees might need in an emergency situation.

SERVPRO of Springfield and Sangamon, Morgan, Cass, Macoupin, Montgomery Counties will create an ERP for your business, free of charge! A representative will come in and ask a few questions, then get the necessary information regarding shut-offs and emergency exit points. After your representative compiles the documents, they will present both a physical and digital copy of the ERP.

After a disaster, your priority should be to get your business back to its normal operations. Fortunately, an ERP allows you the opportunity to quickly respond and take crucial actions. If you are interested in an ERP for your business or commercial building, call SERVPRO of Springfield and Sangamon, Morgan, Cass, Macoupin, Montgomery Counties today at 217-528-7775!

SERVPRO® Service Policy

12/22/2018 (Permalink)

We are Here to Help!®

SERVPRO® of Springfield is here for you! Our highly trained specialists have the training and experience to get you through any size disaster. We know that when the unexpected happens, it is important to have someone on your side that you can rely on for an immediate response. And SERVPRO® of Springfield knows that a quick response time can play a key role in getting things back to normal.

Our service response guidelines ensure that we:

Contact you within 1 hour from notice of loss to arrange for your service.
Are on-site to begin mitigation services within 4 hours of notification.
Provide verbal briefing of services needed within 8 hours of on site arrival.

Exceptions to our service response times may apply if a storm event occurs.

Remember if a disaster occurs, we are here for you! Call us 24/7 at 217-528-7775.

Emergency Ready Profile with SERVPRO® of Springfield

12/22/2018 (Permalink)

50% of business do not reopen.

At SERVPRO® of Springfield, we offer a unique free service to businesses called an Emergency Readiness Profile. The Emergency Readiness Profile is a great way to gather all of the important information necessary to keep your business ahead of disaster. We will work together with the owner, supervisor and maintenance manager to gather important information such as the location of shut off valves, emergency contact numbers and a list emergency exits. Once the information is gathered we will create a digital and paper copy of the information with photographs to allow easy access for anyone involved with the company. The ERP can be utilized as a key piece of data that can prepare your staff for what to do in case of an emergency.

Remember we are Here to Help!® Call us today to set up your ERP appointment at 217-528-7775.

Content Storage After a Disaster with SERVPRO® of Springfield

12/9/2018 (Permalink)

We will safely box and store your items.

SERVPRO® of Springfield offers content storage services after a disaster occurs. We know that in your time of need, eliminating the stress of the safety of your personal items is essential. We can offer peace of mind by saving you time, providing an all-in-one service as well as a meticulous storage environment. As we are already on site to provide restoration services, we can begin the content storage process at the same time. We will log each and every one of your items into inventory with a photo so you know exactly what is being stored and where. We will then place your items in our climate controlled storage facility that provides a stable environment for your property so you never have to worry about the safety of your property. Remember, we are here for you. If you need our services, call 217-528-7775. SERVPRO® of Springfield is Here to help.®

SERVPRO® of Springfield is Faster to Any Size Disaster!

11/30/2018 (Permalink)

We are faster to any size disaster.

SERVPRO® of Springfield is open 24/7, 365 days a year because we know that quick response time can make all the difference. Fast response to a damage can make the difference between restoring and replacing your business’ property and belongings. The first 24 hours are the most critical time when a major damage happens as after this first window of time subsequent damage can occur. The sooner an assessment of the damage can be made, the sooner the clean up work can begin and the sooner other problems can be prevented.

We know that closures for your business don’t just impact you, they also impact your customers and employees. So, before you risk doing further damage by attempting to clean the damage yourself, call SERVPRO® of Springfield at 217-528-7775.

The Professionals of SERVPRO® of Springfield

11/19/2018 (Permalink)

Our crew will work diligently to ensure your needs are met!

SERVPRO® of Springfield professionals are highly trained and qualified to handle your remediation needs. With experience in water, fire, smoke and mold remediation, you can rest assured that every job will be handled with the utmost care. We utilize state of the art equipment to clean, repair and restore your property so that we can also restore your peace of mind. In addition, we work closely with your insurance company to ensure that all of the necessary work is approved according to the terms of your policy. By placing your trust in SERVPRO® of Springfield, you can be sure that your needs will be met with understanding and empathy. Our high standards of quality means that we will work diligently to ensure that your property will be returned to “Like it never even happened.” condition. We are here for you and your family 24/7 at 217-528-7775.

SERVPRO® of Springfield is Here for You!

11/6/2018 (Permalink)

Our crew is always here for you!

SERVPRO® of Springfield is available 24/7; 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Whether disaster strikes at 1 am or even at 1 pm, we are here for you and your business! Your call will be answered by one of our friendly customer care operators and a customer service representative will be in touch with you within 30 minutes. We will work with you to decide a plan of action and get a crew to site as soon as deemed appropriate. Remember when you call SERVPRO® of Springfield, you are calling a local emergency service company that has been in business for over 30 years serving our community. We are Here To Help®. So if disaster should ever strike your business,call us at 217-528-7775.

If you have a fire or water emergency, please call us now at (217) 528-7775

Archived Why SERVPRO Blog Posts

SERVPRO is Here for YOU!

Happy Halloween from SERVPRO!

Happy Labor Day from SERVPRO!

Camping Safety for Beginners

Happy Independence Day from SERVPRO!

Replanting Your Lawn

Happy Memorial Day from SERVPRO!

Merry Christmas from SERVPRO!

Happy and Safe Turkey Day!

Happy Halloween!

Raking the Autumn Leaves

Is it Really Time for School Already?

Keep Cool with Summer Treats

Preparing Your Home for Summer Vacations

Moving Out of the Dorms

SERVPRO Fights Covid-19

Poinsettias Don’t Have to be Christmas Exclusive

Mask Hacks for an Easier Day

Things to do While You Wait for the Vaccine

Five Must-Read Ice Skating Safety Tips

Everyone Can Make New Year’s Eve Celebrations Safer

Wear a mask

Stay at least 6 feet apart

Avoid crowds and poorly ventilated indoor spaces

Wash your hands

Stay home if you are sick

Get a flu shot as soon as possible

COVID-19 vaccines

Safer New Year’s Celebrations with Friends and Family

If you host a celebration

If you attend a celebration

Consider Other Activities to Celebrate New Year’s

Have virtual celebrations with loved ones

Plan a New Year’s party for the people you live with

Reach out to family, friends, and neighbors

Other ideas

Five Must-Read Ice Skating Safety Tips

SERVPRO Provides More Than Fire & Water Restoration

Tips to Dispose of Your Christmas Tree

Merry Christmas!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Happy Halloween

ERP and Your Business

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned - a defensive cleaning program

CONGRATULATIONS 2020 Graduates

We are Cleaning Experts

SERVPRO is Here for YOU!

Christmas Tree Care

Duct Cleaning

Fireplace Safety Tips

Toxic Mold

Customer Service is Our Priority

What An ERP Can Do For Your Business

SERVPRO® Service Policy

Emergency Ready Profile with SERVPRO® of Springfield

Content Storage After a Disaster with SERVPRO® of Springfield

SERVPRO® of Springfield is Faster to Any Size Disaster!

The Professionals of SERVPRO® of Springfield

SERVPRO® of Springfield is Here for You!

Categories

Archived Posts