Why Servpro?

So why SERVPRO? Why not some other restoration company? Why not do it to yourself? Why call us? I’ll tell you.

-SERVPRO is the national leader in Fire and Water Cleanup & Restoration.

-SERVPRO uses only state of the art equipment.

-Training of SERVRO professionals at the national, regional and local levels is constantly reinforcing the highest standards.

-SERVPRO presents professionally uniformed field personnel.

-SERVPRO employs experienced and certified technicians.

-SERVPRO provides a professional service fleet.

-SERVPRO offers Full Service mitigation and construction service.

-SERVPRO has the resources of a national company in times of large disasters.

-SERVPRO franchises are held to a higher standard by the National Headquarters.

So if your weekend happens to be less than beautiful due to the unplanned (say, fire or water damage?) then I think you know who to call.

Here and ready to help when you need it most: (803)755-9774

For more information: http://www.servprolexingtonsc.com/

-Denea Duran 

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Unintentional Carbon monoxide poisoning claims more than 500 lives and sends over 15,000 people to the emergency room each year in America, according to a study by the Center for Disease Control. Carbon monoxide, or CO is an odorless and colorless gas that is toxic to human and animals. Carbon monoxide can come from several sources including charcoal grills, motor vehicles, wood burning fireplaces and generators.

Safety Tips:

-Install at least one CO alarm with an audible warnings alarm near the sleeping areas of your home. Ensure the alarm has been evaluated by a recognized laboratory, such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL).

-Have a qualified professional check all fuel-burning appliances and furnaces at least once per year.

-Never use a charcoal grill, hibachi or power generator in an enclosed space, like a garage. Even if the door is open, the CO may not be properly ventilated.

-Never keep a cat running in the garage.

-Never use a range or oven to help heat your home. 


-Denea Duran
Photo Credit: Google Image

Fact.

Even a small fire can cause odors in your home for years to come. Any fire in your home is bad. But when you try to clean it up yourself, it can be a disaster. Especially considering that smoke and soot from even a small fire can cause odors that may resurface for years. So, before you risk doing more damage by attempting to clean it up yourself, call us, your local fire, smoke and soot cleanup and restoration experts at SERVPRO.

For more information: http://www.servprolexingtonsc.com/fire-smoke-damage-restoration

-Denea Duran 

Fun Friday

Goodbye 80 degree weather and HELLO 36 degree weather. Since it is suppose to be cold I have decided to give you best of both worlds some great recipes and a great D.I.Y project. 

1 box Brownie Mix
eggs & oil (as called for by the brownie mix)
1 heaping half cup (6 oz) Cookies & Cream ice cream
1/4 Cup hot fudge topping (chilled or room temp)
Preheat oven & spray an 8×8 baking dish generously with cooking spray. Combine brownie mix, eggs, and oil as directed on the back of the box, but do not add the water. Add ice cream and hot fudge to the brownie batter and stir to combine. Pour half of the brownie batter into the baking dish, layer with Oreos, then top with remaining batter. Bake for 40-50 minutes or as directed on the back of the box.

Read more at http://www.kevinandamanda.com/recipes/dessert/cookies-n-cream-oreo-fudge-brownies.html#ixzz2J03YRsL7

How neat is this? I think I am going to try this D.I.Y project out! Great little gift just to give to friends! 

Have a great weekend! And bundle up in this weather. . . .  



-Denea Duran

Smoke 101

Fire damages are complex due to the unique nature of different types of smoke. Some things you may not know about smoke.

-Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.

-Smoke flows around plumbing systems, using holes around pipes to go from floor to floor.

-They type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

-Once at a fire scene, a SERVPRO Professional tests the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred.

Types of Smoke:

Wet Smoke Residues: result from smoldering fires with low heat. Residues are sticky and smeary with a pungent odor. Smoke webs can be difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke Residues: result from fast burning fires at high temperatures. Residues are normally dry, powdery, small, nonsmeary smoke particles.

Protein Residues: are virtually invisible residues that discolor paints and varnishes. They have an extreme pungent odor.

Fuel Oil Soot:  occur when furnances puff back, distributing fuel oil soot.

Other Types of Residue: include tear gas, fingerprint powder and fire extinguisher residues, all requiring cleanup. 

For more information: http://www.servprolexingtonsc.com/fire-smoke-damage-restoration

-Denea Duran

Photo Credit: Google Image

What we can do for YOU

So you know that SERVPRO does “fire and water cleanup and restoration,” but do you know what that entails? Don’t miss out on all that we can do for you.

Restoration:

-Fire, Smoke and Soot

-Water Removal and Dehumidication

-Mold Mitigation and Remediation

-Catastrophic Storm Response

-Move out sand Contents Restoration     

-Electronics and Equipment

-Document Drying

-Contents Claim Inventory Service

Cleaning:

-Air Ducts and HVAC

-Biohazzard, Crime Scene and Vandalism

-Carpet, Upholstery, Drapes and Blinds

-Ceilings, Walls and Hard Floors

-Odor Identification

-Deodorization

We’re here to serve you and make it like it never even happened.

Give us a call: (803)755-9774

For more information: http://www.servprolexingtonsc.com/

-Denea Duran 

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

HAPPY MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. DAY

Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was a vital figure of the modern era and a pivotal figure in the Civil Rights Movement. His lectures and dialogues stirred the concern and sparked the conscience of a generation. His charismatic leadership inspired men and women, young and old, in this nation and around the world.While Dr. King preached about justice, empowerment, love and peace, in the final months of his life, his attention was turned to fighting poverty. Sadly, more Americans live in poverty today than during Dr. King's lifetime. Forty-seven million Americans currently fall below the poverty line.

What the community is doing on this day? 

Some national businesses like Allstate Insurance will be holding their company-wide day of service on MLK Jr. Day, where employees on every level and in every position throughout the U.S. are encouraged to volunteer for any cause in their local community.  Target Corporation’s employee volunteer program will take part in the MLK Day Jr. Day festivities by participating in 30 unique project sites throughout Chicago, where employee volunteers will host multicultural fairs for students to educate them on diversity, sort donations at homeless shelters, spend time with senior citizens and create artwork to brighten learning environments.  Washington D.C. Target employees will join their fellow corporate volunteers in this day of service by helping the CNCS and Points of Light assemble and fill assorted items in toiletry kits for active U.S. military personnel, wounded warriors, veterans and first responders.(http://www.forbes.com/sites/causeintegration/2013/01/17/best-gift-for-martin-luther-king-jr-s-birthday-social-impact)

Lets take time to remember that we are all equal no matter what color, shape or size you are! 

-Denea Duran

3 Common Home Emergencies

What are the most common household emergencies that happen? 

1.       Burst washing machine hose- as rubber washing machine ages they eventually wear down and burst, causing costly flooding. Consider switching to a stainless-steel reinforced hose.

2.       Leaky Roof- Mother Nature is pretty tough on your roof. Regularly check your roof for missing or damaged shingles.

3.       Refrigerator Leaks- like your washing machine, the refrigerator is a common culprit in home floods. Ensure your water line is unkinked and in good condition. 

If you are faced with a common household emergency, let the professionals handle it 

(803)755-9774

http://www.servprolexingtonsc.com/water-damage-restoration

-Denea Duran 

I

Winterize Your Business

The winter months may call for businesses to take some standard precautionary measures to help protect their property. These measures include basic maintenance checks and preparation to help ensure your business and employees remain safe. Some basic precautionary tips include:

-          Check your business property for down tree limbs and branches. Weather, such as wind, heavy rain, ice and snow, can cause branches to fall, which could cause damage to the property and potentially cause personal injuries.

-          Ensure gutters are clean and secure. Leave or debris accumulates causing a damming effect on gutters, which could lead to roof problems and water damage.

-          Inspect property, especially walkaways and parking lots, for proper drainage to alleviate flood hazard potential.

-          Inspect all handrails, stairwells and entryways to address and correct potential slippery or hazardous areas. Install mats or non- slip surfaces and post caution signs where water could be present.

For more information: http://www.servprolexingtonsc.com/commercial-restoration/

Photo Credit: Google Image

-Denea Duran 

Real Quotes from Real People

Real Quotes from Real People

"I stopped in a local gas station in Manahawkin, NJ, and had the honor of meeting four of your guys from South Carolina. I knew by the southern accent they were not from here, and I could tell by their dirty boots those boys had been working all day.

I had to take a minute to ask them where they were from and if they were here to help. They smiled very politely and said "yes ma'am, been here since last Thursday". All I could do was look at them and tell them from the bottom of my heart, I thank them for being here, told them New Jersey loves them and made them promise when the Jersey shore is all better someday they must come back for a day in the sand and sun.I didnt get their names, but I will never forget how special they were for coming and helping people and our state of New Jersey!

To those four southern boys in the green SERVPRO trucks, this Jersey girl thanks you. To your company, thank you for the caring and compassion of helping the people in our area. People helping people- it's what it is all about and your company has truly shown that."

-Tiffany, New Jersey

Fun Friday: Flu Keep Away

If you have not noticed everyone is catching the nasty bug called the flu. It is the worst epidemic seen by the CDC in years. Please do everything to keep yourself protected from the flu.

If you know someone is suffering from the flu here is a great gift to leave on their front porch for them. I'm sure they will need a little pick me up!


22 Deaths in SC read more........

http://www.wltx.com/news/article/216270/2/Flu-Claims-22-Lives-in-South-Carolina


-Denea Duran

The Facts.

Fact: Restoration through mitigation is less expensive than replacing!

Mitigation requires quick action. The faster a SERVPRO Franchise Professional arrives on site to perform cleanup and restoration, the better the results including lower claim costs.

Lower recovery costs: the SERVPRO System helps save money.

• Emergency Mitigation Services help minimize additional property damages. 
• Restoration versus replacement of contents saves heirlooms and money too. 
• Restorable contents will be cleaned and deodorized to preloss condition when possible

Fun Friday: Food Fun

Want something yummy and easy for dinner? Most of the time you have these ingredients on hand in your kitchen. I thought this would not only be easy for you but also for me! 

Simple to whip up with ingredients you have on hand, this side is a sure kid-pleaser that adults will enjoy as well.  I employ one of my favorite kitchen tricks with this recipe:  Any time I use frozen broccoli or spinach that needs to be thawed and drained well, I put it inside a tea towel and literally wring it out.  You will be surprised by how much water is released, and getting rid of it will prevent your finished product from becoming soggy.

Vary the cheese if you like or bake in a casserole dish or jumbo muffins tins.

Ingredients:

1 cup quick-cooking rice (like Minute Rice)

1 cup chicken stock

1 10-oz. box frozen, chopped broccoli, thawed and excess water squeezed out

3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided

1/4 cup Homemade Ranch Dressing, or store bought

2 eggs, lightly beaten

1/2 teaspoon salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

Prepare rice as directed on package, substituting stock for water.  Place cooked rice in a large bowl and let cool slightly.  Add the remaining ingredients, using only 1/2 cup of the cheddar cheese, and stir until combined. Transfer mixture to eight well-greased muffin cups–I like to use an ice cream scoop–and top with remaining 1/4 cup cheese.  Bake 25 minutes at 350 degrees or until tops are lightly browned and edges are starting to get crispy.

Content Credit: http://www.daydreamkitchen.com/2012/08/baked-cheddar-broccoli-rice-cups/

Photo Credit: http://www.daydreamkitchen.com/2012/08/baked-cheddar-broccoli-rice-cups/

and for dessert here is another simple recipe

Triple Chocolate Chunk Muffin Knock-Offs of Whole Food’s 6 Dollar per 4 Chocolate Chunk VitaTop Muffins

Ingredients:
1 3/4 c oats

•  3 egg whites

•  3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa

• 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce

• 1 tsp. vanilla extract

• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (or regular plain low fat yogurt)

• 1/2 tsp cream of tartar (or 1-1/2 Tbsp. vinegar)

• 1-1/2 tsp. baking powder

• 1-1/2 tsp. baking soda

• 1/4 tsp. salt

• 1 cup hot water

• 1 cup sugar substitute (like Splenda granular) OR 1/4 cup + 2 tbs stevia

• 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (or use white chocolate or peanut butter chips!)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line 2 (12-cup) muffin pans with foil cupcake liners, or spray muffin tin with non-stick cooking spray. Set aside.
In a blender, (or food processor), mix all of the ingredients together, except for the chocolate chips. Blend until oats are ground and mixture is smooth.
Place mixture in a bowl and gently stir in 1/2 of the chocolate chips (set the rest aside). Scoop mixture into prepared muffin pans.
Place muffins tins in the oven for 10 minutes.  After 10 minutes, remove muffins from the oven (but don’t shut oven off), and distribute the other half of the chocolate chips on top of each muffin.
Place  the muffins back into the oven and bake for an additional 2-5 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. *Note, you could skip this step by putting all of the chips in the batter, and baking the muffins for 12-15 min straight, but this method gives the muffins the traditional 

-Denea Duran

Google wants to help you keep your New Years Resolution

Are your New Year’s resolutions already losing some of their resolve? Google wants to help.

The company on Thursday posted a list of tools designed to assist with some of the most common January 1 promises, along with an interactive map that lets users share their resolutions and see what others around them are doing.

“The new year has arrived, and with it all the resolutions that we hope to tackle in 2013,” Google’s Liz Wessel wrote on the company’s blog. “But resolutions can be hard to keep. And since eating better, taking control of personal finances, traveling more and learning something new regularly top the list of New Year’s resolutions, we’ve pulled together some of our best tips and tricks across Google to make 2013 the year you succeed with your goals.”

On the map, part of the Google Zeitgeist project which tracks search trends and other activity, users can post their resolution and see it appear in a location based on their zip code.

“Research shows that you’re more likely to achieve your resolutions if you write them down and have support,” Wessel wrote. “Try sharing your goals with communities around you.”

In addition to adding your own resolution to the map, you can watch in real time as new ones appear, or view resolutions by category. They include Love, Health, Finance, Career and Do Good, among others.

A quick look at Google’s interactive map Thursday found a user in Norway vowing to “stop drinking,” someone in South Africa hoping to “work less, earn more” and a Florida man (we assume it was a man) resolving “to grow a mustache.”

In the blog post, Wessel also pulls together apps for Google’s Chrome browser and Android mobile operating system designed to help with popular resolutions like losing weight, working out more, getting your finances in order and taking up new hobbies.

The list includes diet-related apps like Diet Diary and BBC Good Food as well as links to YouTube channels dedicated to healthy cooking.

Content Credit: Cnn.com

Photo Credit: Google Image

-Denea Duran