Recent Posts
How You Can Help Until the Professionals Get There
12/2/2024 (Permalink)
Flooding can cause significant damage to your home. While professional restoration services are the best solution for long-term recovery, there are immediate steps you can take to minimize damage until help arrives.
Here are some tips:
Safety First:
- Prioritize your safety and the safety of your family. Evacuate if instructed by local authorities.
- Avoid walking through floodwaters, as they may contain contaminants.
Document the Damage:
- Take photos and videos of the damage to your home and belongings. This documentation can be helpful for insurance claims.
Turn Off Utilities:
- If it’s safe to do so, turn off the electricity, gas, and water at the main switches to prevent further damage and hazards.
Remove Water and Moisture:
- If the water level is low, use pumps or buckets to remove water from your home.
- Open windows and doors to allow air to circulate and help dry out the affected areas.
Prevent Mold Growth:
- Remove water-damaged materials like drywall, carpeting, and insulation.
- Use fans and dehumidifiers to reduce humidity levels.
- Clean and disinfect affected areas to prevent mold growth.
Remember: It's important to contact a professional restoration company as soon as possible to assess the damage and initiate the restoration process. They have the expertise and equipment to properly dry out your home and prevent further damage.
Keep Your Holidays Fire Free
12/2/2024 (Permalink)
The holiday season is a time for joy, family, and festivities. However, it’s also important to prioritize safety. House fires are a common occurrence during this time, often caused by careless actions or faulty equipment. Here are a few tips to keep your home safe and your holidays happy:
Christmas Tree Safety:
- Choose a fresh, fire-resistant tree.
- Keep the tree well-watered.
- Place the tree away from heat sources like fireplaces and radiators.
- Turn off Christmas lights before going to bed or leaving the house.
Lighting Safety:
- Use only UL-listed lights.
- Check lights for frayed wires or broken bulbs before using them.
- Never overload outlets.
- Avoid using candles unattended.
Cooking Safety:
- Never leave cooking unattended.
- Keep children and pets away from cooking areas.
- Keep pot handles turned inward to avoid accidental spills.
- Clean up spills immediately.
By following these simple tips, you can enjoy a safe and happy holiday season.
SERVPRO - Swift and Efficient Water Mitigation Services for Local Hospitals
7/9/2024 (Permalink)
Discover how SERVPRO's emergency response team efficiently mitigated water damage at a local Knox County hospital, ensuring minimal disruption and mai
SERVPRO® is a trusted provider of restoration and cleaning services. We recently showcased our expertise by swiftly responding to a water damage incident at a local Knox County hospital. The follwoing prompt actions and dedication to minimizing downtime, ensured seamless operations for the hospital.
1. Immediate Response and Assessment:
When the emergency call came in, SERVPRO's highly skilled team immediately rushed to the hospital, assessing the extent of the water damage and identifying potential risks. Our quick response aimed to prevent further damage and minimize any health hazards associated with standing water.
2. Efficient Water Extraction and Drying:
Using advanced equipment, our team efficiently extracted water from affected areas such as examination rooms, hallways, and administrative spaces. Our team employed cutting-edge drying techniques to eliminate excess moisture, preventing the growth of mold and creating a safe environment for patients, staff, and visitors.
3. Minimizing Disruption to Hospital Operations:
Recognizing the critical nature of healthcare services, our team worked diligently to minimize disruptions to the hospital's daily operations. By strategically coordinating our activities, we ensured a seamless restoration process without interfering with patient care or medical procedures.
4. Thorough Cleanup and Sanitization:
Our commitment to detail extended beyond water extraction and drying. Our team conducted a comprehensive cleanup and sanitization process, restoring the affected areas to their pre-damage condition. By utilizing industry-leading cleaning techniques and disinfectants, our team ensured the hospital's compliance with strict health and safety standards.
SERVPRO Team Cuthbertson's swift emergency response, efficient water mitigation services, and dedication to minimizing disruption exemplify our commitment to providing reliable restoration solutions to local hospitals. By promptly addressing water damage, we safeguard the hospital's integrity, allowing medical professionals to focus on delivering exceptional care to their patients. Trust SERVPRO for emergency response and restoration expertise.
Preventing Heating Fires
2/8/2024 (Permalink)
Heat your home safely as the cold outdoor temperatures persist.
While modern heating systems are designed to be more efficient and have built-in safety features that minimize the risk of fires, it is crucial to note that heating fires can still occur due to various factors.
Is your property at risk? Let us help you get prepared with our checklist of preventative measures. But remember, if your property does undergo damage, we are open 24/7, 365 days a year to help you through it and to make it "Like it never even happened."
Overall, there has been a decline in heating fires over the years, however, they still pose a significant risk to homes and individuals. By remaining vigilant, staying informed about safety measures, and taking proactive steps to maintain heating systems, we can continue to reduce the occurrence of these devastating incidents.
Checklist for preventing heating fires
- Heat source proximity - Keep anything that can burn at least three feet from all heat sources including fireplaces, wood stoves, radiators, portable heaters, or candles.
- Electrical issues - Always plug space heaters directly into an outlet, and make sure its cord isn’t damaged or frayed.
- Improper usage - Never use an oven to heat your home.
- Maintenance - Maintain heating equipment and chimneys by having them cleaned and inspected each year by a professional.
- More information - Visit the U.S. Fire Administration Home Fires page to learn about how to prepare for and prevent home fires including tips for individuals with disabilities and older adults.
source: Ready.gov
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SERVPRO Team Cuthbertson in the 2023 Oak Ridge Christmas Parade
12/19/2023 (Permalink)
SERVPRO waives to the spectators from the decorated fleet vehicle at the 2023 Oak Ridge Christmas Parade.
Our community is where our heart is and that’s why we like to invest our time and efforts in events like the Oak Ridge Christmas Parade. Each year, individuals, families, and businesses come together to celebrate the Christmas holiday with festive floats and decorated trucks and trailers. The streets are lined with spectators, including children who cheer, sing, and wave as the parade of brightly lit and decorated floats pass by. Holiday music can be heard all around, and Christmas Cheer is evident in the faces of all throughout the parade.
This year’s event, ?sponsored by the Oak Ridge Chamber of Commerce, was attended by hundreds of spectators and, according to Norm Nelson of the Oak Ridge Chamber, the 2023 parade boasted one of it’s largest float registrations in recent years.
Several news outlets were in attendance with live coverage of the event being broadcasted and recorded. One of these recordings can be viewed on the following Youtube link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KWJxIHfUwoo
It is an honor to participate in family events like this one, and it is a testament to our community that it is such a huge success every year. The hard work and dedication of the people like Christine Michaels, Norm Nelson, and BreAnna Robinson of the Oak Ridge Chamber of Commerce are the driving force behind these great celebrations, which enrich and inspire this community that we are humbled and grateful to be a part of.
Fire Prevention for Homes and Businesses
12/7/2023 (Permalink)
The effects of a fire can be devistating.
If you didn't know, it's National Fire Prevention Week. As much as we here at SERVPRO are here to help clean up after fires, our priority is always to help prevent them in the first place. So, we want to share some tips with you that will help keep you and your loved ones safe.
Fire is one of the most devastating disasters that can strike a home or business. It can cause extensive damage to property and possessions, and can even lead to loss of life. That's why it's important to take steps to prevent fires from happening in the first place.
Here are some fire prevention tips for homes and businesses:
Home fire prevention tips:
? Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, inside bedrooms and outside sleeping areas. Test your smoke alarms every month and change the batteries every year.
? Create and practice a fire escape plan with your family.
? Keep flammable materials away from heat sources.
? Be careful when cooking and using candles.
? Never smoke in bed.
? Have your electrical wiring and appliances inspected regularly by a qualified electrician.
Business fire prevention tips:
? Install smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors throughout your business. Test your alarms every month and change the batteries every year.
? Create and practice a fire escape plan with your employees.
? Keep flammable materials away from heat sources and electrical equipment.
? Be careful when using appliances and equipment.
? Have your electrical wiring and appliances inspected regularly by a qualified electrician.
How SERVPRO can help after a fire
If a fire does happen, it's important to call a qualified fire restoration company as soon as possible. SERVPRO is a leading provider of fire restoration services. We have over 2,000 franchises across the United States and Canada, so we're always nearby to help when disaster strikes.
Our team of highly trained and experienced professionals is equipped to handle all aspects of fire restoration, including:
? Emergency water removal
? Structural drying
? Smoke and odor removal
? Content cleaning and restoration
? Construction services We work with your insurance company to make the claims process as easy and stress-free as possible. We also offer 24/7 emergency service, so you can always count on us to be there for you when you need us most.
If you have experienced a fire, contact SERVPRO today. We're here to help you get your home or business back to normal as quickly as possible.
Additional fire prevention tips:
? Educate your family and employees about fire safety. Make sure everyone knows what to do in case of a fire.
? Have a fire extinguisher on every level of your home or business and know how to use it.
? Keep your fire extinguishers in good working order by inspecting them regularly and having them serviced by a professional.
? Consider installing a fire sprinkler system. Fire sprinkler systems can help to extinguish fires quickly and prevent them from spreading.
By following these fire prevention tips, you can help to protect your home or business from the devastating effects of fire.
Ensuring Turkey Fryer Safety for a Happy Thanksgiving
12/7/2023 (Permalink)
Be sure to follow our safety instructions to aid in preventing a fire.
Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and of course, a delicious turkey feast. While many families enjoy the tradition of deep-frying their turkeys, it is important to be aware of the potential safety hazards involved. SERVPRO, a leading provider of fire damage restoration services, is committed to helping families have a safe and enjoyable Thanksgiving by providing turkey fryer safety tips.
Turkey Fryer Safety Tips
- Choose the Right Fryer: Always use a turkey fryer specifically designed for outdoor use. Never use an indoor turkey fryer, as they pose a high risk of fire.
- Use a Safe Location: Place your turkey fryer at least 10 feet away from any structures or combustible materials. Never operate a turkey fryer in a garage, shed, or any enclosed area.
- Keep Away from Flammables: Keep any flammable materials, such as propane tanks, gasoline, or lighter fluid, away from your turkey fryer.
- Fill with Proper Oil: Use only the recommended type of oil for your turkey fryer. Never overfill the fryer, as this can increase the risk of overflowing.
- Thaw the Turkey Completely: A partially frozen turkey can cause the oil to splatter and ignite. Always thaw your turkey completely before frying.
- Lower the Turkey Slowly: Slowly lower the turkey into the hot oil to avoid splattering.
- Never Leave the Fryer Unattended: Never leave a turkey fryer unattended while it is in operation. Always have a fire extinguisher nearby in case of an emergency.
- Dispose of Oil Properly: Once the turkey is cooked, allow the oil to cool completely before disposing of it. Never pour hot oil down the drain.
SERVPRO's Commitment to Safety
SERVPRO is committed to helping families have a safe and enjoyable Thanksgiving by providing turkey fryer safety tips and fire damage restoration services in case of an emergency. With over 50 years of experience, SERVPRO has the expertise and resources to help you recover from a fire quickly and efficiently.
Enjoy a Safe and Happy Thanksgiving
By following these turkey fryer safety tips, you can help prevent fires and ensure a safe and happy Thanksgiving for you and your family. SERVPRO wishes you a safe and enjoyable Thanksgiving!
Office Fire Safety 101: Tips for Fire Prevention in the Workplace
12/12/2022 (Permalink)
Make sure that everyone knows where the nearest exits are located.
Fires are a risk at any workplace, but individual office environments have their own unique fire safety concerns. Whether you're an employee working in an office building or a business owner who's responsible for your employees' health and safety, it's important to be prepared for the possibility of a fire emergency. Here are some steps you can take to help ensure that your employees stay safe if there's ever a fire in your building:
Common Causes of Fires in the Office
Electrical Fires: Electrical fires are the most common cause of fire in offices. These fires can occur after power surges, electrical malfunctions, or when a circuit overloads.
Smoking: Cigarettes, cigars and pipes all contain burning tobacco products that can easily start a fire if not used with care.
Spills: Spills of flammable liquids like gasoline, solvents and other chemicals should be cleaned up immediately to avoid creating a layer that could ignite later in an unsupervised area.
Cooking: Cooking on hot plates or microwaves is prohibited in many office buildings due to the risk of starting a fire.
How to Get Ready for Workplace Fire Emergencies
Employee training
While it’s important to keep your employees safe, you don’t want them to be so worried about the possibility of a fire that they can't focus on their work. Proper training will ensure that everyone understands the signs of a fire and knows how to respond if one occurs.
Emergency plans
Once you've trained your staff in fire safety, put your plan into action with an emergency drill or two each year. Doing this will help you avoid any confusion during an actual emergency, as well as make sure that everyone knows where the nearest exits are located. If possible, include a mock evacuation scenario in these drills (like having someone play the part of someone who needs assistance evacuating). This way, you can test both how quickly people exit their workplace and whether there are any gaps in their knowledge.
Safety equipment
Fire extinguishers should always be installed throughout every workplace — they're cheap enough compared with other forms of hazard protection like sprinklers or CO detectors.
How to Implement Fire Prevention at Work
As an employee, you should be aware of the importance of fire prevention in the workplace. Your employer is legally required to take certain steps to keep your workplace safe. Fire alarms and extinguishers are two important things that can help keep your employees and property protected from fires.
If you're responsible for a facility, here's what you need to do:
- Install fire alarms that sound throughout the building when activated by smoke or heat
- Make sure they're working properly so they can alert people if there's ever a fire
- Get at least one ABC-rated fire extinguisher per floor or area (you'll want more in industrial areas)
- Train all employees on how to use it
- Keep exit routes always clear
The best way to keep your office safe from fires is to be fully prepared in case one happens. The tips we’ve outlined above can help you prevent fires, but there are also some other crucial steps you can take. First and foremost, make sure that everyone at your workplace knows what to do in case of emergency. Second, make sure that someone is always on hand with a fire extinguisher. Finally, don’t forget about things like regular maintenance checks and replacing worn-out equipment before anything goes wrong.
Sewage Damage Process
11/1/2022 (Permalink)
Sewage damage in a basement
Process of Sewage Damage
Sewage damage is one of the most serious issues that you can encounter in your home. It can be difficult to clean up and repair, and there are times when identifying when it has occurred can be difficult. If you want to know whether you have sewage damage in your home, look for the following signs:
Potential Hazards
Once you decide to hire a professional, they will assess any potential environmental hazards, structural hazards, mold, and mildew hazards. If the property has been flooded with raw sewage or municipal wastewater, then it is likely that pathogens are present in the home’s air. These pathogens could lead to illness if not handled properly by a professional company that knows how to decontaminate such a property.
Sewage damage restoration companies have extensive experience in remediation of such issues and can assist you if you are unsure about hiring someone for this type of work
Pre-remediation Considerations
Pre-remediation considerations are important and can help you achieve the best results.
While it's tempting to do your own sewage damage cleanup and repair, there are a few things you should consider before taking on this project yourself. First, you'll want to make sure that you're hiring a professional contractor who has the proper equipment and skillset for the job. This way, they will be able to properly assess your situation and come up with an efficient solution for repairing any damage caused by sewage backup or flooding in your home or business property. Some contractors specialize in certain areas of work—for example, some focus solely on using biohazards material cleanup methods while others may specialize in removing odors after sewage backups have occurred. When choosing a professional contractor, it's important that they have all these qualities so they can best serve your needs as well as answer any questions that may arise during this process.
Special Remediation Situations
If the sewage damage is in your basement, you may have experienced a flood. If this is the case, you should take photos of the flooding and send them to your insurance company as soon as possible. Keep track of all costs associated with the cleanup process, including temporary housing and any lost work time.
If there’s a leak in your home that’s causing sewage backup into other areas or if there was an overflow at one of your neighbor’s houses due to clogged pipes (or whatever), these are both circumstances that require special handling. You can get help from an expert who knows how to handle these instances on behalf of your insurance company by contacting us today!
Sewage cleanup is best handled by professionals
If you have experienced a sewage backup, it is important to know the extent of the damage. Sewage cleanup is a specialized service and professional sewer cleaning companies have the equipment and expertise to handle any type of sewage damage.
In conclusion, sewage damage can be a serious issue that requires professional attention. If you're dealing with this problem and need some help, contact us today!
SERVPRO of West Knoxville Breaks Ground for New Facility
10/31/2022 (Permalink)
Jeff Cuthbertson, Jamie Shelley, Craig Hixson, Mayor Jacobs, and General Manager Ben Barker break ground on new SERVPRO location.
On September 8, 2022, Team Cuthbertson celebrated a milestone: SERVPRO of West Knoxville, North Knoxville, Northwest Knoxville, and Oak Ridge broke ground on our new offices and warehouse location in Knoxville, Tennessee.
The heartfelt outpouring from the local community at our groundbreaking ceremony was encouraging and uplifting as guests gathered to celebrate this exciting milestone for SERVPRO Team Cuthbertson. In attendance were Knoxville's local Chambers of Commerce, news organizations, and even Mayor Glenn Jacobs (formerly Kane from WWE wrestling!). With SERVPRO trucks and a construction site (complete with active bulldozers and excavators) as the backdrop, Jeff Cuthbertson, Jamie Shelley, Craig Hixson, Mayor Jacobs, and General Manager Ben Barker suited up in SERVPRO hardhats and dug their SERVPRO branded shovels into the dirt, making the ceremonial claim that a new 31,250 square foot building would soon stand there with the signature SERVPRO logo prominently displayed on the front.
The new facility will house offices, a training room for on-site educational courses and training, a client showroom, employee bunkroom, employee gym, and a warehouse that will include areas for full-service contents cleaning and restoration, as well as an ozone chamber.
The initial clearing of the site began on August 15, 2022, and construction continues to progress. The new building is expected to go vertical as early as the end of June or the beginning of July 2024. “We are humbled by the faith and trust that our clients and customers place in us to help them in their time of need, and we are excited for the new ways this facility will aid us in expanding and fortifying our robust capabilities”, said Jeff Cuthbertson, President and CEO of Cuthbertson Restoration, Inc. Cuthbertson, who opened his first SERVPRO franchise in Chattanooga, TN, in 2008, is now the owner of 15 franchise territories across Tennessee and Central Florida. The Cuthbertson team is among the top 5 largest SERVPRO franchises in the United States.
https://www.knoxvillechamber.com/SERVPRO-groundbreaking-ceremony/
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