Signs of Water Damage

6/21/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage can come from many different sources, including hurricanes, severe thunderstorms, local flooding, burst pipes, and leaking appliances. It also has many different signs. It can appear quickly or slowly and make its way into your ceilings, floors, and walls, all of which have slightly different signs of damage. If a water leak is left unattended or not noticed immediately, water damage can occur. Wet rot can cause wood damage, structural issues, pose mold and other health effects, and become a financial headache down the road. Look for these water damage signs when trying to detect water damage in your ceiling:? 

• ?Peeling, bubbling, or flaking paint 
• Small hairline cracks or a larger, spiderwebbed pattern of cracks 
• Water rings, usually a light brown color 
• ?Mold growth, especially in corners where walls and ceilings meet, and often in humid rooms or locations such as basements 
• Sagging, bowed ceilings 
• Water stains, often a dark, yellow color, or similar in appearance to rust 
• Musty smells 

When it comes to water damage on your walls, look for the following signs: 

• Softened drywall. If safe to do so, press on the areas where you suspect there’s water damage. If the wall sinks inward or becomes depressed in some way, you likely have water damage on the inside, even if the exterior appears normal. 
• Discoloration, often appearing in the form of streaks that can be short or quite long, running down the wall in affected areas 
• Water rings, usually a light brown color 
• Cracked, bubbling, or flaking paint. When water damage occurs inside a wall, it can often stretch the paint on the outside, leading to bubbles of varying sizes that can pop and cause even more damage. 
• Musty smells 

Water damage almost never gets better if left unattended, watch for these signs and protect your home by calling SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow at 603.893.9700.

Help is Just a Phone Call Away!

6/20/2022 (Permalink)

When fire or water damage puts the things that matter most on the line, you need the very best help on the line as well. That’s why knowing the easiest ways to contact SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow is so vital. Just go to our website on your mobile phone or call 603.893.9700 to get the team that’s faster to any size disaster. We’re a leader in giving control back to homeowners, property managers, and even entire communities after the devastating effects of water or fire. So whether you’re responsible for 1,000 square feet or 100,000 – be ready for the worst with the very best.

Here are 8 reasons why your company should get an Emergency Ready Profile^® today on every one of your buildings.

• A no-cost assessment of your facility.
• A concise Profile document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency.
• A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster.
• Establishes your local SERVPRO® Franchise Professional as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider.
• Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin.
• Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas, and priority contact information.

SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow is part of a Franchise System that has more than 50 years of leadership in cleanup and restoration. Our track record of results has earned us the trust of the insurance industry, countless homeowners, and in one unforgettable instance, even the Pentagon. We are quietly taking to the streets, every hour of every day, proving that whenever there is a house full of water or an office full of smoke, there is also a van full of clean.

Important and Easy Test

6/20/2022 (Permalink)

Fire alarms when properly installed and maintained are a proven method to saving lives in the case of a fire, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

Carbon monoxide and fire can make for a deadly duo, installing dual detectors makes it easier to protect yourself against both. Combination smoke and carbon monoxide alarms have sensing technologies that work together to detect fires and the odorless, colorless, tasteless gas known as CO – the silent killer. 

Test smoke alarms monthly using the test button. Follow this link for a complete 14 step outline for safely and effectively testing your fire/ smoke detectors. How do test a smoke detector.

In larger commercial buildings, hard wired or wireless smoke alarms offer benefits some time saving and ease of use. These alarms do not need to be tested as often and are interconnected throughout the entire building if smoke is detected in just one area (NFPA).

If you need assistance installing, testing or changing batteries in your smoke alarms, contact your local fire department, an electrician or the American Red Cross.

Be sure your home or workplace has a fire emergency plan in place and conduct regular fire drills. For more information on emergency preparedness, contact SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow at 603.893.9700. Happily serving Salem, Windham, Atkinson, Danville, Plaistow, and Pelham, NH. 

Make the Call to SERVPRO First

3/28/2022 (Permalink)

There's no such thin as a small disaster - especially when the water you don't see contains bacteria or can cause mold, rot, and other unseen damage. Water damage can affect the value of your property. Before you get out the mop bucket and try to clean it yourself, consider how the damage can affect your property. 

SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow franchise professionals know how disruptive water damage can be for you, our home or business. SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow's staff are trained and equipped to manage the drying process. By utilizing the proper equipment and moisture measuring devices, you building will be quickly and thoroughly dried to industry standards, which will help prevent secondary water damages. 

Before you risk further damaging the value of your facility by attempting to clean up the mess yourself, call SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow at 603.893.9700. 

Proper Protection = Safe Mold Removal

3/28/2022 (Permalink)

When there's water intrusions, like a rook leak or leaking water line, mold can quickly become a problem in your home or business. Mold can cause health effects and can also cause significant damage to your property. Fortunately, SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow's staff has the training, protective gear, and specialized equipment necessary to handle your mold problem. Although every mold damage scenario is different requiring a unique solution, the general mold remediation process stays the same.

The mold cleanup and restoration process begins when you call us to book your free inspection. A member of our team will ask you a series of questions to help determine the necessary equipment, resources and personnel needed.

Look for our next blog when we discuss more of these standard steps for proper mold restoration!

Preparation is KEY!

3/3/2022 (Permalink)

At this point most of us living in Salem/Plaistow area know how to handle the big winter storms. We rush to the grocery store to get milk and bread because we are all convinced we will be in our house for days on end! The storms that bring feet of snow to our area, no school for days, and state of emergency to keep nonessential personal off the roads. You could lose power, which could cause food spoilage or frozen pipes… and let’s not forget if there is a quick warm up right behind it, you could experience flooding. The nice thing about these larger storms is that they give us time to prepare.

BUT what about the smaller storms? The ones that only bring a coating, inch or two of sleet, snow or ice? The ones that they always say won’t cause much of an impact?

Did you know these smaller, less significant storms can actually cause a greater impact to your home and business? Why? Because we don’t prepare as much. We are told they won’t be as big so we tend not to stress as much and let our guard down. Four wheel drive can plow through anything right… wrong!

So... what can you do?

1. Have a list of your vendors and an emergency ready profile (ERP) completed on your business as an additional add to your continuity plan. It saves you time, in the event this “insignificant storms” turns out to be a really big deal.
2. Just because there is a storm coming, your business operations cannot come to a halt. Set clear expectations for those in authority as well as non-critical employees in the event an emergency does occur. Is your emergency plan communicated by text, email, or phone call? Is everyone aware of this? It may also be beneficial to subscribe to and send out public transportation updates so no employees are left stranded at your office. Likewise is it acceptable for your employees to arrive late or leave early to ensure their safety?
3. With smaller storms we tend to not walk the perimeter of our business to inspect for damage or ice accumulation. By not doing this, it can lead to larger issues down the road or worse, a customer becoming injured. It is always a good practice no matter how large or small the storm might be to inspect your property and document everything. You never know when your insurance may need that information.

In the end, the size of the storm shouldn’t matter. As business owners preparation is key no matter what Mother Nature has up her sleeve. Contact your sales and marketing representative @ 603-893-9700 to learn more about the emergency ready profile (ERP) and how it could benefit your business.

Improve Cleaning through Technology

3/3/2022 (Permalink)

Dry ice blasting is a revolutionary blasting method that uses dry ice pellets (CO2 in solid form) as the blasting material. The process is very environmentally friendly and provides a fast and effective alternative to traditional methods of cleaning industrial production equipment. 

• A dry cleaning process: Dry ice blasting is a completely dr process because dry ice pellets consist of CO2 and vaporize immediately on contact with the surface to be cleaned. 
• No water disposal: The system produces no waste products. Only the coasting that has been removed remains to be disposed of, and this can usually be swept or vacuumed from the floor. 
• Environmentally friendly: Dry ice blasting is completely non-toxic and no hazardous chemicals are used. Costs connected with the disposal of blasting materials and solvents are saved. 
• No Abrasion: Dry ice blasting is non-abrasive and therefore surfaces are treated very gently. Wear and tear resulting from the use of steel brushes, scrapers, and other blasting materials is avoided.
• Improved production time: Dry ice blasting often allows for your production equipment to be cleaned while in operation without a need for dismantling or costly downtime. 

Types of Smoke

3/2/2022 (Permalink)

As SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow, we know different types of smoke damage requires different cleaning methods. 

• Wet Smoke: Usually from plastic and rubber Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, stocky, smeary Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.
• Dry Smoke: Usually seen with paper and wood Fast burning, high temperatures
• Protein Fire Residue: Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire. Almost invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, comes with extremely pungent odor
• Fuel Oil Soot: From a furnace puff back

While “puff backs” can create havoc for homeowners, SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals can, in most cases, restore the contents and structure quickly.

When these types of damages affect your home in Salem, Windham or Pelham, NH; we are always here to help recover your home. We aim to make it “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow 603.893.9700

The tragedy behind each fire damage

3/2/2022 (Permalink)

When a fire rips through your home or business, it can cause fear, anxiety, and uncertainty.

After the first responders have put out the fire, and the area is deemed safe, it is your ocal SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow are here to help. With rapid response from knowledgeable technicians, it is a relief to know that your home or business can be returned to normal as fast as possible.

NFPA states:

·         487,500 structure fires were reported in 2013 across the United States

·         These damages totaled 9.5 billion dollars in damage to property

·         One fire to a home or business was reported every 65 seconds

Don’t let the unthinkable cause stress or doubt for you. Call your SERVPRO® Professionals to make the damage seem “Like it never even happened.”

Join a Winning, Growing Team!

12/21/2021 (Permalink)

Our Franchise is seeking someone who is comfortable working hard in challenging situations, enjoys meeting new people, has excellent communication skills, and is a serious multi-tasker. If you are self-motivated and have superb interpersonal skills, then you’ll thrive in this work environment.

Are you highly dependable and super-excited about routinely exceeding expectations? Then you may be our perfect hero! 

As a valued SERVPRO® Franchise employee, you will receive a competitive pay rate, with opportunity to learn and grow. 

Primary Responsibilities 

• Inventory and load the work vehicle with equipment, products, and supplies needed for each project.
• Maintain a clean and organized vehicle and clean equipment appearance.
• Prepare rooms/areas for work activities. Set up staging area and equipment for each project.
• Leave jobsite with a clean and orderly appearance.
• Perform production processes following SERVPRO® production guidelines per work order per crew chief directions.
• Ensure clear two-way communication with crew chief and other technicians (especially regarding customer needs and concerns).
• Perform end-of-day/end-of-job cleanup and breakdown.
• Leave jobsite with a clean and orderly appearance.

Position Requirements 

• Effective oral communication
• Basic math skills
• Experience in cleaning/restoration preferred
• High school diploma/GED
• IICRC certifications preferred
• Ability to lift a minimum of 50 pounds regularly, occasionally up to 100 pounds with assistance
• Ability to climb ladders, work at ceiling heights, work in tight spaces (e.g., crawls spaces, attics)
• Ability to sit/stand/walk for prolonged periods of time
• Ability to repetitively push/pull/lift/carry objects
• Ability to work with/around cleaning products/chemicals
• Ability to travel locally and out of state when necessary
• Ability to successfully complete a background check subject to applicable law 

Pay Rate: Negotiable based on experience, with possibility of overtime pay and increases based on merit. 

Please visit our website, www.SERVPROsalemplaistow.com, for additional information.  

Job Type: Full-time 

Required license or certification: Drivers License

SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow is an EOE M/F/D/V employer

Here are 8 reasons why your company should get an Emergency Ready Profile®

11/23/2021 (Permalink)

When fire or water damage puts the things that matter most on the line, you need the very best help on the line as well. That’s why knowing the easiest ways to contact SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow is so important. Just go to our website on your mobile phone or call 603.893.9700 to get the team that’s faster to any size disaster. We’re a leader in giving control back to homeowners, property managers, and even entire communities after the ravaging effects of water or fire. So whether you’re responsible for 1,000 square feet or 100,000 – be ready for the worst with the very best.

Here are 8 reasons why your company should get an Emergency Ready Profile^® today on every one of your buildings.

• A no-cost assessment of your facility.
• A concise Profile document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency.
• A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster.
• Establishes your local SERVPRO® Franchise Professional as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider.
• Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin.
• Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas, and priority contact information.

SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow is part of a Franchise System that has more than 50 years of leadership in cleanup and restoration. Our track record of results has earned us the trust of the insurance industry, countless homeowners in Danville, Hampstead, or Windham, NH, and in one unforgettable instance, even the Pentagon. We are quietly taking to the streets, every hour of every day, proving that whenever there is a house full of water or an office full of smoke, there is also a van full of clean.

Holiday Prep Tips

11/22/2021 (Permalink)

As we start getting closer to the holidays and the Christmas lights begin to shine, it's important that we all take a step back and remind ourselves of all of our blessings. 2021 has been a difficult and confusing year for all of us. COVID-19 has forever changed the way we live, interact, even breathe; through a mask! The biggest change that we fight to overcome is how to stay united as a community and help each other while maintaining social distancing guidelines and quarantine. 

We at SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow work hard every day to keep our local towns and municipalities safe and in the best position to combat the ongoing Coronavirus pandemic.

Don't let these uncertain times allow you to forget life's simple treasures that are still alive and well all around us. SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow can provide you with an increased sense of control and confidence that you are taking every measure to continue to hold your friends and family near and enjoy them this holiday season. 

Call us today at 603.893.9700 for a free quote on cleaning and disinfecting your home and/or business. 

How SERVPRO works with you, not for you!

11/22/2021 (Permalink)

Our goal at SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow is to save as much of your impacted property as possible, on every disaster. When assessing damage to your home or business after a fire, flood, storm, etc., our team will determine what can be cleaned and saved, such as furniture, contents, and structural materials. This allows you as the business or homeowner to get your life back faster and with much less interruption.

Why restoration?

Restoration is much more cost-efficient than replacement. Sanding and refinishing our original hardwood floors will have a lot less impact on your wallet versus having to replace that floor and lose the original charm.

We offer you peace of mind. Many items cannot be replaced, such as important documents, antique furniture, and family heirlooms. SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow always walks through the property right from the start to ensure that old worn out teddy bear gets the treatment it needs to bring it back to preloss condition!
We save time. No one enjoys having their kitchen or bathroom torn apart. Let SERVPRO restore!
It’s the preferred method of insurance companies. Insurance policies often have limits that cap the amount of a claim.
Better for the environment. Everything that is ripped up and taken away needs to go somewhere.

If you find yourself in the middle of disaster, our trained, certified professionals are just a phone call away. We are available 24/7/365 and we work with your insurance company to manage the process and paperwork. SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow would love the opportunity to work with you to make it “Like it never even happened.”

One to SERVPRO can save you $1000s in the Long Run

11/22/2021 (Permalink)

Picture this...

You come home after a long day of work, head towards the fridge to start the process of figuring out dinner only to step into a puddle of water on your way. You discover your ice maker water line has failed and you rushed to find the water main shut off. After finding some towels you set up a few fans and attempt to dry everything out. After a few days, everything seems fine and you start to work on getting someone to reinstall the water line. 

The repairman comes out and pulls away the fridge only to find some black mold and bubbling paint. He tells you he can't fix the problem until the mold is gone. Now you need to call SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow. 

We come out and fully inspect the property. Our team finds that there is still water trapped between the subfloors and the wall is insulated and is reading wet against our moisture meters. 

Now demo is involved along with costly repairs. The kitchen is now quickly becoming a construction site. Calling our trusted brand fast more often than not is the cheaper option! We work hard to restore not replace and have built strong relationships with major insurance companies.

Don't wait - call us for a free inspection and estimate. SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow - 603-893-9700.

Always being one step Ahead!

11/17/2021 (Permalink)

Just because you haven’t experienced a flood doesn’t mean you won’t in the future. It happens fast and can happen anywhere. Having a plan for your home or business is critical for any severe weather event. Keep reading to learn more about protecting yourself, your business, and your property.

Homeowners

Develop a proper evacuation plan: Map out routes and mark areas or roads that might become unpassable due to flooding. If you approach a road or area that is flooded, turn around. Most cars can be swept away by less than 2 feet of moving water. If you are caught on a flooded road and waters are rising rapidly around you, get out of the car and move to higher ground.

Build an emergency care kit: Water, non-perishable food, battery powered radio, flashlights, first aid kit, personal hygiene items, cell phones and chargers, blankets, rain gear, extra clothing, baby supplies, copies of personal documents, and extra cash are some of the items to pack for you and your family. If you have pets don’t forget their supplies too!

Keep children out of the water: Kids are often curious and lack judgment or fear when it comes to water. Downed power lines and contaminated flooded areas add additional safety risks. Keep children close to you for their safety.

One Call Away!

11/17/2021 (Permalink)

When fire or water damage puts the things that matter most on the line, you need the very best help on the line as well. That’s why knowing the easiest ways to contact SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow is so important. Just go to our website on your mobile phone or call 603.893.9700 to get the team that’s faster to any size disaster. We’re a leader in giving control back to homeowners, property managers, and even entire communities after the ravaging effects of water or fire. So whether you’re responsible for 1,000 square feet or 100,000 – be ready for the worst with the very best.

Here are 8 reasons why your company should get an Emergency Ready Profile^® today on every one of your buildings.

• A no-cost assessment of your facility.
• A concise Profile document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency.
• A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster.
• Establishes your local SERVPRO® Franchise Professional as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider.
• Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin.
• Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas, and priority contact information.

SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow is part of a Franchise System that has more than 50 years of leadership in cleanup and restoration. Our track record of results has earned us the trust of the insurance industry, countless homeowners in Danville, Hampstead, or Windham, NH, and in one unforgettable instance, even the Pentagon. We are quietly taking to the streets, every hour of every day, proving that whenever there is a house full of water or an office full of smoke, there is also a van full of clean.

Meet our Newest Team Member - Mike!

11/16/2021 (Permalink)

Mike S is SERVPRO's newest employee and has completed our rigorous SERVPRO HERO READY training. This program teaches advanced cleaning and restoration techniques and how to properly use our state-of-the-art equipment. This training program also focuses on listening skills and customer service. Mike has been with SERVPRO for 6 months now and we have enjoyed sending his smiling face to any client home, from Salem to Danville, NH!  He has a great sense of humor and is one of the most polite and caring employees we have.  Always going the extra mile to ensure our customers are informed and happy. In the past, Mike has worked in the construction industry and restored John Deer equipment.  When not working, Mike enjoys spending time with his family and friends and working on cars!

Make SERVPRO your next Career Move!

11/16/2021 (Permalink)

Our Franchise is seeking someone who is comfortable working hard in challenging situations, enjoys meeting new people, has excellent communication skills, and is a serious multi-tasker. If you are self-motivated and have superb interpersonal skills, then you’ll thrive in this work environment.

Are you highly dependable and super-excited about routinely exceeding expectations? Then you may be our perfect hero! 

As a valued SERVPRO® Franchise employee, you will receive a competitive pay rate, with opportunity to learn and grow. 

Primary Responsibilities 

• Inventory and load the work vehicle with equipment, products, and supplies needed for each project.
• Maintain a clean and organized vehicle and clean equipment appearance.
• Prepare rooms/areas for work activities. Set up staging area and equipment for each project.
• Leave jobsite with a clean and orderly appearance.
• Perform production processes following SERVPRO® production guidelines per work order per crew chief directions.
• Ensure clear two-way communication with crew chief and other technicians (especially regarding customer needs and concerns).
• Perform end-of-day/end-of-job cleanup and breakdown.
• Leave jobsite with a clean and orderly appearance.

Position Requirements 

• Effective oral communication
• Basic math skills
• Experience in cleaning/restoration preferred
• High school diploma/GED
• IICRC certifications preferred
• Ability to lift a minimum of 50 pounds regularly, occasionally up to 100 pounds with assistance
• Ability to climb ladders, work at ceiling heights, work in tight spaces (e.g., crawls spaces, attics)
• Ability to sit/stand/walk for prolonged periods of time
• Ability to repetitively push/pull/lift/carry objects
• Ability to work with/around cleaning products/chemicals
• Ability to travel locally and out of state when necessary
• Ability to successfully complete a background check subject to applicable law 

Pay Rate: Negotiable based on experience, with possibility of overtime pay and increases based on merit. 

Please visit our website, www.SERVPROsalemplaistow.com, for additional information.  

Job Type: Full-time 

Required license or certification: Drivers License

SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow is an EOE M/F/D/V employer

Ar you Ready?

11/16/2021 (Permalink)

IF A DISASTER STRIKES, WILL YOU BE READY?

It is important to prepare your Hampstead, NH home before a disaster occurs. Consider the following steps to better prepare for an emergency situation.

• Sign up for local alerts and warnings, download apps, and/or check access for wireless emergency alerts. - Use Rockingham Alerts, Rockingham County NH Weather Alerts , and your local towns to have up to date information.
• Develop and test emergency communication plans with your coworkers and family to make sure everyone knows what to do.
• Assemble or update emergency supplies - including a gallon of water each day per person for at least 3 days, appropriate clothing for the time of year, non-perishable foods, etc.
• Learn about local hazards, and conduct a drill to practice emergency response actions.
• Participate in a preparedness discussion, training, or class.
• Collect and safeguard critical documents.
• Plan with neighbors to help each other and share resources.
• Document property and obtain appropriate insurance for relevant hazards.
• Make property improvements to reduce potential injury and property damage.

Knowing what to do in an emergency reduces the stress everyone feels. Take the time to prepare and in the long run, you and your family will be thankful! Call SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow with any questions or concerns. 603.893.9700

Having fun while Being Safe

9/23/2021 (Permalink)

Living around many beautiful bodies of water like Canobie Lake in Salem, Cobbett’s Pond in Windham, or Country Pond in Kingston can be both a blessing and a curse as these can aid in causing flooding. Just because you haven’t experienced a flood doesn’t mean you won’t in the future. It happens fast and can happen anywhere. Having a plan for your home or business is critical for any severe weather event. Keep reading to learn more about protecting yourself, your business, and your property.

Homeowners

Develop a proper evacuation plan: Map out routes and mark areas or roads that might become unpassable due to flooding. If you approach a road or area that is flooded, turn around. Most cars can be swept away by less than 2 feet of moving water. If you are caught on a flooded road and waters are rising rapidly around you, get out of the car and move to higher ground.

Build an emergency care kit: Water, non-perishable food, battery powered radio, flashlights, first aid kit, personal hygiene items, cell phones and chargers, blankets, rain gear, extra clothing, baby supplies, copies of personal documents, and extra cash are some of the items to pack for you and your family. If you have pets don’t forget their supplies too!

Keep children out of the water: Kids are often curious and lack judgment or fear when it comes to water. Down powerlines and contaminated flooded areas add additional safety risks. Keep children close to you for their safety.

Keep SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow in mind if waters arise and trouble comes your way! We are always here to help! 603.893.9700

Fire Restoration Services Customized to your Home

9/23/2021 (Permalink)

A fire or smoke damage can be very stressful event for any property owner. Physical damage can have enormous monetary impacts but those usually pail into comparison to the emotional impacts. This is where SERVPRO can help! Fast mitigation is the key to controlling damage, while reducing downtime and recovery costs. Here at SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow, understand how disruptive fires can be for business & home owners. Our service response guidelines can help prevent fire damage from creating long-term problems and lastly emotional scars.

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is unique, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and years of experience to restore your property after fire and smoke damage.  SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow will always treat you, your family, tenants and treasured items with care and respect.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?

Call Us Today – (603) 893-9700

Strong Roof is a Good Foundation

9/22/2021 (Permalink)

The right roof for your home in and around Salem, NH can not only look good, but always can protect your home during a storm. Here, we share a blog from Budget Dumpster on how to pick the right roof for you.

"Types of Roof Shingles

Asphalt

Of all the different types of shingles, these are the most commonly used because they’re the least expensive and relatively easy to install. These shingles are made of fiberglass mats coated with asphalt containing sand-like granules.

The downside: Asphalt shingles have a relatively short life span of 20 to 30 years, and they don’t fare well in areas where the temperature fluctuates unexpectedly, such as the Midwest.

Why choose asphalt roofing shingles? They’re the most economical of roofing options and come in plenty of styles and color selections.

Metal

This type of roof is made with many different materials – aluminum, steel, copper, zinc and titanium. If properly maintained, your metal roof could last as long as 50 years. You may want to consider metal if your home’s roofline is flat or steep.

The downside: Metal roofing can become noisy whenever it’s hailing or raining.

Why choose metal roofing shingles? They’re durable, fireproof and good at shedding snow and ice.

Slate

Not only are slate shingles durable – lasting anywhere from 80 to 100 years – they are also highly resistant to water and physical damage.

The downside: In addition to their high price tag, slate is expensive to repair because very few roofing companies specialize in this particular type of shingle. Furthermore, slate is rather heavy and may not be a good fit if your home can’t handle the weight.

Why choose slate roofing shingles? They’re one of the longest-lasting types of roofing material you can choose, and on the right style of home, adds a nice visual appeal.

Wood

Aside from being durable and having a lifespan of 30 to 50 years, wood shingles are more environmentally friendly than other types. This type of roof shingle is usually made of cedar, but can also be made of other rot-resistant woods, such as redwood.

The downside: Although energy-efficient and long-lasting, wood shingles are less fire-resistant than other types. They’re also more susceptible to termites and mold.

Why choose wood roofing shingles? They’re visually appealing and generally cooler than other types of shingles that are darker in color."

For more information on your roof or Budget Dumpster, please visit their blog.

If your roof doesn't hold up in a storm and you are a victim of water damage, please call us at 603.893.9700, to make it "Like it never even happened."

Simple Tips everyone Should Follow!

9/22/2021 (Permalink)

While not popular in Salem or Pelham, NH area, a wildfire can occur anywhere-in fact, in 2014, wildfire occurrences were recorded in all 50 states. A wildfire can destroy homes, businesses, agriculture, and damage natural resources while threatening the safety of the public and the firefighters who protect our forests and communities.  

Wildfires or just fires in general, can occur at any time throughout the year, but the potential is always higher during periods with little or no rainfall, which make brush, grass, and trees dry and burn more easily. High winds can also contribute to spreading the fire.

If you live or work in an area prone to wildfires, consider the following safety tips to help prevent the spread of wildfire.

Fire Safety Tips

• Clear leaves and other debris from gutters, eaves, porches and decks. Remove dead vegetation from under your deck and within 10 feet of the house. This prevents embers from igniting your home.
• Remove anything stored underneath decks or porches. Screen or box-in areas below patios and decks with wire mesh to prevent debris from accumulating.
• Ensure flammable materials (firewood stacks, propane tanks, and dry vegetation) are more than 30 feet from your home or business's foundation and outbuildings.
• Wildfire can spread to tree tops. If you have trees on your property, prune so the lowest branches are 6 to 10 feet from the ground.
• Keep your lawn hydrated and maintained. If it is brown, cut it down to reduce fire intensity. Dry grass and shrubs are fuel for wildfire.

If your home or business ever suffers fire damage, in anyway, please let us help you make it "Like it never even happened." SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow is here to help and can be reached at 603-893-9700.

SERVPRO can Paint a Town GREEN

9/14/2021 (Permalink)

When water damage happens to your property in Salem or Windham NH, knowing who to call is the first step in relieving some of the stress. But when a flooding occurs? It is even better to know that we at SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow have a network of other franchises to pull in the equipment, resources and man power needed to help the large losses. Here are 5 examples of how we were able to support our local Hampstead, NH communities and others across the country.

• A series of hail storms impacted central Texas causing damage to many homes, vehicles and businesses. There was considerable hail damage northeast of Austin, west of Georgetown and southwest of The Woodlands resulting in $1.2 Billion dollars in damages. 
• The Siberian Express in 2015 created record breaking broken pipes and ice dams. 257 SERVPRO crews helped during these ice dams, with even SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow calling in help from Alabama and Tennessee to help our home and business owners in and around Pelham, NH.
• In April of 2016, the southern states were engulfed in 2-4 inches of rain per hour. Eighty-one crews produced over 360 jobs in this historic event that left Harris County with 18 inches of rain.
• Hurricane Matthew in caused flooding the East Coast from Florida to North Carolina. One hundred sixty-nine crews mitigated over $7.5 million worth of damage to business owners and homeowners alike.
• Lastly, in East Tennessee, one of the largest wildfires in history struck the Great Smokey Mountains. Over 17,000 acres burned, and twelve crews came to the rescue to help the seventy families and businesses get the fire damage and soot under control.

SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow and these other teams can make any disaster “Like it never even happened.” We are there, no matter how big or small, call us 24/7/365 at 603.893.9700.

Safe Travels

9/14/2021 (Permalink)

Many people are anxious to travel again now that many of the lock downs are lifted as a result of COVID-19. Hurricane season typically runs between June and November. Whether you travel to an area strongly affected by hurricanes, or you feel the after affects of wind and rain, it is important to be vigilant during this storm season. Keep this in mind if you venture away from your home in and around Pelham, NH or Plaistow, NH.

Below are some tips to follow whether you own a home, RV, boat, car or all of them! You can see a storm coming by the change in color of the sky (often greenish), large hail, low-flying clouds and a roar like a freight train.

• Your basement or under a set of stairs are great places to wait out the storm. If this is not available, the bottom floor of any building will work.
• During an emergency, gas stations will often be closed, so always make sure you have at least half a tank of gas to get away instantly
• Have enough supplies on hand to wait out 72 hours, just in case help cannot arrive right away. These supplies can also be stored in the trunk (items like a first aid kit, bottled water, non-perishable foods, and medication can stay there at all times.)
• Make sure your cell phone is charged and keep your charger with you.
• Avoid driving in deep waters
• For your boat, remove non-secure items, electronics, excess gear, valuable, and important documents.
• Make sure all openings are clear of debris
• With your RV, do not drive it during the storm as it is more vulnerable to higher/stronger winds
• Make sure all documents are in a waterproof bag and with you at all times

Life can be unpredictable, but having plans in place help you with whatever may come. For more information, please check out these hurricane tips. As always, once the storm passes, contact your SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

Summer Safety Fun

9/14/2021 (Permalink)

While this time of year is a great time to enjoy BBQs, fire pits, and fireworks, it is also a time to be wary of potential fire hazards that could impact your home or business in Kingston, NH.

Here are 6 tips to help keep your Summer fun AND safe!

• Keep a bucket of water or, as is required in many towns, a hose handy near your fire pit. If embers float out of your fire pit, or a log falls down from your bonfire stack and sets nearby foliage, paper, or other flammable materials aflame, you don’t want to be scrambling for a way to put the fire out. 
• Supervise all fireworks that you are using (if fireworks are legal in your state, of course). Sparklers and pinwheels might seem “low risk,” but the reality is that there aren’t any fireworks out there that are safe enough for kids to use without adult supervision.
• It’s also important to ensure that no one tries to re-light fireworks that don’t work properly the first time. Dump these in a bucket of water and move on to the next package.
• Keep your grill or BBQ pit clean! Prevent accidental grease fires by cleaning out your pits or grease traps
• Inspect the area around your BBQ and campfire. It is important to make sure that you there is nothing flammable around where you are going to be lighting a fire. - Consider deck railings, overhanging, branches, dry grass, piles of dry wood and recycling, brush nearby
• When you will not be supervising the fire, make sure you put it out!

Thanks to American Alarm for this awesome information!

Keep us in mind if you are in the Windham, NH,  Danville, NH or Salem, NH area! 603.893.9700

The Reason We Do what We Do.

9/14/2021 (Permalink)

Working for SERVPRO in the water restoration and recovery industry can be demanding. Having to deal with real life emergencies on a daily basis takes a toll on people. Its customers like the one featured below, that make all the challenges worth it and reminds us why we keep doing what we do; SERVPRO is HERE TO HELP!

A women called in to report a pipe break in her new home in Salem, NH. She had just moved from Plaistow, NH and was so upset that her new beautiful home has suffered a smoke damage. SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow started the remediation process immediately and was able to clean and deodorize her home without disrupting her living situation. This homeowner was so grateful for our timely response and expertise she sent a huge bouquet of flowers to our office as a personal thank you for our services. 

Everyone at SERVPRO is so grateful to play even a small role in help home and business owners recover from damages caused by burst pipes or floods. No job is too big or small for SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow. Please call us today at 603893.9700 and ask about how we can help you!

How Can SERVPRO help your Business!

7/30/2021 (Permalink)

Completing an Emergency Service Plan establishes your SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow as your disaster restoration provider, giving you access to over 44 years of experience servicing Plaistow, Kingston, Hampstead and other local areas in NH.

When it comes to your business, it is your pride and joy. You pray that a disaster never strikes, ruining all of your hard work.

Questions that run through your mind when disaster strikes, but is helpful to think of before that:

• Do you have insurance

• Do you have an emergency plan in place? Does your staff know about it?

• Can you access your business records if they were destroyed?

“Small business owners invest a tremendous amount of time, money and resources to make their ventures successful, yet, many owners fail to properly plan and prepare for disaster situations." An estimated 50% of business do not reopen after a disaster has happened.

Creating a business plan for disaster will help protect employees, shorten the amount of time you may have to be out of work, and possibly lessen the financial impact it will have on you.

1. Identify critical business systems – how long can they be down and what is needed to keep everything functioning.
2. Create an emergency communication plan with all those who have a stake in your business.
3. Build a supply kit that will keep your business and employees safe should you be at work when disaster strikes
4. Work with SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow to build an Emergency Ready Profile. This will provide the information for all emergency personnel that need to be contacted when disaster strikes and when our Team arrives on site, it gives the knowledge of your building before we even step in the door. This provides efficient and faster service for you!

For more information on how to help prepare your business for disaster, please contact us at 603.893.9700 or SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow.

Here to Help!

6/1/2021 (Permalink)

When fire or water damage puts the things that matter most on the line, you need the very best help on the line as well. That’s why knowing the easiest ways to contact SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow is so vital. Just go to our website on your mobile phone or call 603.893.9700 to get the team that’s faster to any size disaster. We’re a leader in giving control back to homeowners, property managers, and even entire communities after the devastating effects of water or fire. So whether you’re responsible for 1,000 square feet or 100,000 – be ready for the worst with the very best.

Here are 8 reasons why your company should get an Emergency Ready Profile^® today on every one of your buildings.

• A no-cost assessment of your facility.
• A concise Profile document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency.
• A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster.
• Establishes your local SERVPRO® Franchise Professional as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider.
• Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin.
• Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas, and priority contact information.

SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow is part of a Franchise System that has more than 50 years of leadership in cleanup and restoration. Our track record of results has earned us the trust of the insurance industry, countless homeowners, and in one unforgettable instance, even the Pentagon. We are quietly taking to the streets, every hour of every day, proving that whenever there is a house full of water or an office full of smoke, there is also a van full of clean.

Quick Test can Make a Long Term Difference

4/28/2021 (Permalink)

Fire alarms when properly installed and maintained are a proven method to saving lives in the case of a fire, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

Carbon monoxide and fire can make for a deadly duo, installing dual detectors makes it easier to protect yourself against both. Combination smoke and carbon monoxide alarms have sensing technologies that work together to detect fires and the odorless, colorless, tasteless gas known as CO – the silent killer. 

Test smoke alarms monthly using the test button. Follow this link for a complete 14 step outline for safely and effectively testing your fire/ smoke detectors. How do test a smoke detector.

In larger commercial buildings, hard wired or wireless smoke alarms offer benefits some time saving and ease of use. These alarms do not need to be tested as often and are interconnected throughout the entire building if smoke is detected in just one area (NFPA).

If you need assistance installing, testing or changing batteries in your smoke alarms, contact your local fire department, an electrician or the American Red Cross.

Be sure your home or workplace has a fire emergency plan in place and conduct regular fire drills. For more information on emergency preparedness, contact SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow at 603.893.9700. Happily serving Salem, Windham, Atkinson, Danville, Plaistow, and Pelham, NH. 

Are You Prepared?

4/6/2021 (Permalink)

Is your business ready to handle a disaster like burst pipe or emergency disinfecting services?

When it comes to your business, it is your pride and joy. You pray that a disaster never strikes, ruining all of your hard work.

Questions that run through your mind when disaster strikes, but is helpful to think of before that:

• Do you have insurance

• Do you have an emergency plan in place? Does your staff know about it?

• Can you access your business records if they were destroyed?

“Small business owners invest a tremendous amount of time, money and resources to make their ventures successful, yet, many owners fail to properly plan and prepare for disaster situations." An estimated 50% of business do not reopen after a disaster has happened.

Creating a business plan for disaster will help protect employees, shorten the amount of time you may have to be out of work, and possibly lessen the financial impact it will have on you.

1. Identify critical business systems – how long can they be down and what is needed to keep everything functioning.
2. Create an emergency communication plan with all those who have a stake in your business.
3. Build a supply kit that will keep your business and employees safe should you be at work when disaster strikes
4. Work with SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow to build an Emergency Ready Profile. This will provide the information for all emergency personnel that need to be contacted when disaster strikes and when our Team arrives on site, it gives the knowledge of your building before we even step in the door. This provides efficient and faster service for you!

For more information on how to help prepare your business for disaster, please contact us at 603.893.9700 or SERVPROSalemPlaistow.com

Call the Cleanup Team that's Faster to Any Size Disater

3/1/2021 (Permalink)

There's no such thin as a small disaster - especially when the water you don't see contains bacteria or can cause mold, rot, and other unseen damage. Water damage can affect the value of your property. Before you get out the mop bucket and try to clean it yourself, consider how the damage can affect your property. 

SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow franchise professionals know how disruptive water damage can be for you, our home or business. SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow's staff are trained and equipped to manage the drying process. By utilizing the proper equipment and moisture measuring devices, you building will be quickly and thoroughly dried to industry standards, which will help prevent secondary water damages. 

Before you risk further damaging the value of your facility by attempting to clean up the mess yourself, call SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow at 603.893.9700. 

Managing Mold

3/1/2021 (Permalink)

When there's water intrusions, like a rook leak or leaking water line, mold can quickly become a problem in your home or business. Mold can cause health effects and can also cause significant damage to your property. Fortunately, SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow's staff has the training, protective gear, and specialized equipment necessary to handle your mold problem. Although every mold damage scenario is different requiring a unique solution, the general mold remediation process stays the same.

The mold cleanup and restoration process begins when you call us to book your free inspection. A member of our team will ask you a series of questions to help determine the necessary equipment, resources and personnel needed.

Look for our next blog when we discuss more of these standard steps for proper mold restoration!

Dry Ice Blasting

2/15/2021 (Permalink)

Dry ice blasting is a revolutionary blasting method that uses dry ice pellets (CO2 in solid form) as the blasting material. The process is very environmentally friendly and provides a fast and effective alternative to traditional methods of cleaning industrial production equipment. 

• A dry cleaning process: Dry ice blasting is a completely dr process because dry ice pellets consist of CO2 and vaporize immediately on contact with the surface to be cleaned. 
• No water disposal: The system produces no waste products. Only the coasting that has been removed remains to be disposed of, and this can usually be swept or vacuumed from the floor. 
• Environmentally friendly: Dry ice blasting is completely non-toxic and no hazardous chemicals are used. Costs connected with the disposal of blasting materials and solvents are saved. 
• No Abrasion: Dry ice blasting is non-abrasive and therefore surfaces are treated very gently. Wear and tear resulting from the use of steel brushes, scrapers, and other blasting materials is avoided.
• Improved production time: Dry ice blasting often allows for your production equipment to be cleaned while in operation without a need for dismantling or costly downtime. 

Do you know about SERVPRO’s ERP?

2/9/2021 (Permalink)

Worrying about the cleanup and restoration can be stressful, and many home and business owners are left with a feeling of helplessness and uncertainty. SERVPRO's Franchise Professionals know restoring peace of mind is just as important as restoring property.

SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow wants to be there in your time of need, helping you and your customers piece their lives back together.

Our goal is simple:

In an emergency situation, like a building fire, every second counts. How quickly you respond could depend on how prepared you are before the emergency. Emergency planning and training directly influence the outcome of an emergency situation. Facilities with well-prepared employees and well-developed plans are likely to incur less structural damage and fewer or less severe employee injuries.

When preparing a fire evacuation plan, it is important to designate multiple evacuation routes and exits. This ensures more than one way to exit the building, should an exit be blocked by fire. When choosing emergency exits, consider the following recommendations.

• Exits should be clearly marked and well  
• Exit routes should be wide enough to accommodate the number/volume of evacuating person
• Exit routes should remain unobstructed and clear of debris at all times.

If you  prepare  drawings  that  show  evacuation routes and exits, post  them  prominently  for  all employees  to  see. Once an  escape  plan  is created, it should  be  practiced  to help familiarize  staff  with  emergency  exit  routes. It is important to talk to your local fire department, as local codes may require more frequent drills  for various  facilities.

SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow can help with emergency planning by establishing an Emergency READY Profile, (ERP), for your facility. For more information about the ERP or emergency planning, contact

SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow 603-893-9700.

Make Sure we are your First Call!

2/9/2021 (Permalink)

When fire or water damage puts the things that matter most on the line, you need the very best help on the line as well. That’s why knowing the easiest ways to contact SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow is so vital. Just go to our website on your mobile phone or call 603.893.9700 to get the team that’s faster to any size disaster. We’re a leader in giving control back to homeowners, property managers, and even entire communities after the devastating effects of water or fire. So whether you’re responsible for 1,000 square feet or 100,000 – be ready for the worst with the very best.

Here are 8 reasons why your company should get an Emergency Ready Profile^® today on every one of your buildings.

• A no-cost assessment of your facility.
• A concise Profile document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency.
• A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster.
• Establishes your local SERVPRO® Franchise Professional as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider.
• Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin.
• Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas, and priority contact information.

SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow is part of a Franchise System that has more than 50 years of leadership in cleanup and restoration. Our track record of results has earned us the trust of the insurance industry, countless homeowners, and in one unforgettable instance, even the Pentagon. We are quietly taking to the streets, every hour of every day, proving that whenever there is a house full of water or an office full of smoke, there is also a van full of clean

Big or Small Issue - Think of SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow

2/8/2021 (Permalink)

At this point most of us living in Salem/Plaistow area know how to handle the big winter storms. We rush to the grocery store to get milk and bread because we are all convinced we will be in our house for days on end! The storms that bring feet of snow to our area, no school for days, and state of emergency to keep nonessential personal off the roads. You could lose power, which could cause food spoilage or frozen pipes… and let’s not forget if there is a quick warm up right behind it, you could experience flooding. The nice thing about these larger storms is that they give us time to prepare.

BUT what about the smaller storms? The ones that only bring a coating, inch or two of sleet, snow or ice? The ones that they always say won’t cause much of an impact?

Did you know these smaller, less significant storms can actually cause a greater impact to your home and business? Why? Because we don’t prepare as much. We are told they won’t be as big so we tend not to stress as much and let our guard down. Four wheel drive can plow through anything right… wrong!

So... what can you do?

1. Have a list of your vendors and an emergency ready profile (ERP) completed on your business as an additional add to your continuity plan. It saves you time, in the event this “insignificant storms” turns out to be a really big deal.
2. Just because there is a storm coming, your business operations cannot come to a halt. Set clear expectations for those in authority as well as non-critical employees in the event an emergency does occur. Is your emergency plan communicated by text, email, or phone call? Is everyone aware of this? It may also be beneficial to subscribe to and send out public transportation updates so no employees are left stranded at your office. Likewise is it acceptable for your employees to arrive late or leave early to ensure their safety?
3. With smaller storms we tend to not walk the perimeter of our business to inspect for damage or ice accumulation. By not doing this, it can lead to larger issues down the road or worse, a customer becoming injured. It is always a good practice no matter how large or small the storm might be to inspect your property and document everything. You never know when your insurance may need that information.

In the end, the size of the storm shouldn’t matter. As business owners preparation is key no matter what Mother Nature has up her sleeve. Contact your sales and marketing representative @ 603.893.970 to learn more about the emergency ready profile (ERP) and how it could benefit your business.

SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow can help you plan!

2/8/2021 (Permalink)

Worrying about the cleanup and restoration can be stressful, and many home and business owners are left with a feeling of helplessness and uncertainty. SERVPRO's Franchise Professionals know restoring peace of mind is just as important as restoring property.

SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow wants to be there in your time of need, helping you and your customers piece their lives back together.

Our goal is simple:

In an emergency situation, like a building fire, every second counts. How quickly you respond could depend on how prepared you are before the emergency. Emergency planning and training directly influence the outcome of an emergency situation. Facilities with well-prepared employees and well-developed plans are likely to incur less structural damage and fewer or less severe employee injuries.

When preparing a fire evacuation plan, it is important to designate multiple evacuation routes and exits. This ensures more than one way to exit the building, should an exit be blocked by fire. When choosing emergency exits, consider the following recommendations.

• Exits should be clearly marked and well  
• Exit routes should be wide enough to accommodate the number/volume of evacuating person
• Exit routes should remain unobstructed and clear of debris at all times.

If you  prepare  drawings  that  show  evacuation routes and exits, post  them  prominently  for  all employees  to  see. Once an  escape  plan  is created, it should  be  practiced  to help familiarize  staff  with  emergency  exit  routes. It is important to talk to your local fire department, as local codes may require more frequent drills  for various  facilities.

SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow can help with emergency planning by establishing an Emergency READY Profile, (ERP), for your facility. For more information about the ERP or emergency planning, contact

SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow 603-893-9700.

Bet you didn't know SERVPRO could do this!

2/3/2021 (Permalink)

• Vacuum Freeze drying is the most effective time way to salvage water-damaged documents. 
• The Document Restoration Team uses sublimation - turning a solid directly into a vapor, skipping the liquid stage to avoid causing more damage to the documents. 
• The state of the art technology used by SERVPRO technicians is the only method approved by the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) and the General Services Administration (GSA). 
• Other methods such as dehumidification can alter the structure of the paper’s fibers causing them to become more brittle.
• All employees of the Document Restoration Team are HIPAA Master certified. 
• Once your items arrive at the SERVPRO facility, 24/7 video surveillance is guaranteed. 
• Anyone entering the Drying Chamber Facility must sign in and out with their arrival and departure time.
• Standard drying time is 7-10 days. Time frame varies based on moisture content and backlog. Call a member of the Document Restoration Team for current lead time. 

Storm Preparation is a MUST!

2/3/2021 (Permalink)

At this point most of us living in Salem/Plaistow area know how to handle the big winter storms. We rush to the grocery store to get milk and bread because we are all convinced we will be in our house for days on end! The storms that bring feet of snow to our area, no school for days, and state of emergency to keep nonessential personal off the roads. You could lose power, which could cause food spoilage or frozen pipes… and let’s not forget if there is a quick warm up right behind it, you could experience flooding. The nice thing about these larger storms is that they give us time to prepare.

BUT what about the smaller storms? The ones that only bring a coating, inch or two of sleet, snow or ice? The ones that they always say won’t cause much of an impact?

Did you know these smaller, less significant storms can actually cause a greater impact to your home and business? Why? Because we don’t prepare as much. We are told they won’t be as big so we tend not to stress as much and let our guard down. Four wheel drive can plow through anything right… wrong!

So... what can you do?

1. Have a list of your vendors and an emergency ready profile (ERP) completed on your business as an additional add to your continuity plan. It saves you time, in the event this “insignificant storms” turns out to be a really big deal.
2. Just because there is a storm coming, your business operations cannot come to a halt. Set clear expectations for those in authority as well as non-critical employees in the event an emergency does occur. Is your emergency plan communicated by text, email, or phone call? Is everyone aware of this? It may also be beneficial to subscribe to and send out public transportation updates so no employees are left stranded at your office. Likewise is it acceptable for your employees to arrive late or leave early to ensure their safety?
3. With smaller storms we tend to not walk the perimeter of our business to inspect for damage or ice accumulation. By not doing this, it can lead to larger issues down the road or worse, a customer becoming injured. It is always a good practice no matter how large or small the storm might be to inspect your property and document everything. You never know when your insurance may need that information.

In the end, the size of the storm shouldn’t matter. As business owners preparation is key no matter what Mother Nature has up her sleeve. Contact your sales and marketing representative @ 603-893-9700 to learn more about the emergency ready profile (ERP) and how it could benefit your business.

Fireplace Safety

1/21/2021 (Permalink)

Fireplace Safety

The holidays have come and gone. The new year and new decade are upon us which for those in Salem or Plaistow, NH, brings cold weather, ice, and snow. With colder weather, your fireplace becomes more than just a focal point of your home. For many, it becomes a heat source to keep you and your loved ones warm. It also helps keeps your house from freezing temperatures that could cause frozen pipes and water damage. Before you throw a log on the fire and light a match to keep your family toasty, consider these 8 tips to keep you safe.

1. Have your fireplace cleaned and inspected by a professional. There could be soot build up, cracks, or loose bricks.
2. Check your fire and carbon monoxide detectors to help avoid fire and smoke damage. It is a good practice to replace the batteries every spring and fall when we change the clocks.
3. Ensure your chimney is capped. This helps keep rain, birds, squirrels and debris from entering.
4. Use kindling to start the fire instead of flammable liquids. Also be sure to burn well-seasoned wood.
5. Don’t overload your fireplace. A fire that is too hot can crack your chimney, and could get out of control very quickly.
6. Use a spark guard to keep any ambers from shooting out damaging your floor and possibly igniting a fire.
7. Have a metal container nearby to remove and store hot ash. These ambers can stay hot for a while so be sure to keep it a safe distance outside away from your home.
8. Even if you had your chimney inspected, look for signs of creosote and soot buildup. Creosote is a dark substance that can build up if wood isn’t burning completely.

No need to get the chills this winter! By following these simple tips, you can help keep your family safe until warmer temperatures return. If you find yourself in situation where a fire or puff back has occurred, SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow is always here to help get your home back “Like it never even happened.” Call us at 603.893.9700 for a complimentary quote.

The Real Value in SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow

11/22/2020 (Permalink)

Our goal at SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow is to save as much of your impacted property as possible, on every disaster. When assessing damage to your home or business after a fire, flood, storm, etc., our team will determine what can be cleaned and saved, such as furniture, contents, and structural materials. This allows you as the business or homeowner to get your life back faster and with much less interruption.

Why restoration?

Restoration is much more cost-efficient than replacement. Sanding and refinishing our original hardwood floors will have a lot less impact on your wallet versus having to replace that floor and lose the original charm.

We offer you peace of mind. Many items cannot be replaced, such as important documents, antique furniture, and family heirlooms. SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow always walks through the property right from the start to ensure that old worn out teddy bear gets the treatment it needs to bring it back to preloss condition!
We save time. No one enjoys having their kitchen or bathroom torn apart. Let SERVPRO restore!
It’s the preferred method of insurance companies. Insurance policies often have limits that cap the amount of a claim.
Better for the environment. Everything that is ripped up and taken away needs to go somewhere.

If you find yourself in the middle of disaster, our trained, certified professionals are just a phone call away. We are available 24/7/365 and we work with your insurance company to manage the process and paperwork. SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow would love the opportunity to work with you to make it “Like it never even happened.”

So You Didn't Call SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow

11/17/2020 (Permalink)

Picture this...

You come home after a long day of work, head towards the fridge to start the process of figuring out dinner only to step into a puddle of water on your way. You discover your ice maker water line has failed and you rushed to find the water main shut off. After finding some towels you set up a few fans and attempt to dry everything out. After a few days, everything seems fine and you start to work on getting someone to reinstall the water line. 

The repairman comes out and pulls away the fridge only to find some black mold and bubbling paint. He tells you he can't fix the problem until the mold is gone. Now you need to call SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow. 

We come out and fully inspect the property. Our team finds that there is still water trapped between the subfloors and the wall is insulated and is reading wet against our moisture meters. 

Now demo is involved along with costly repairs. The kitchen is now quickly becoming a construction site. Calling our trusted brand fast more often than not is the cheaper option! We work hard to restore not replace and have built strong relationships with major insurance companies.

Don't wait - call us for a free inspection and estimate. SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow - 603-893-9700.

SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow - Helping Keep Us All Safe.

11/17/2020 (Permalink)

As we start getting closer to the holidays and the Christmas lights begin to shine, it's important that we all take a step back and remind ourselves of all of our blessings. 2020 has been a difficult and confusing year for all of us. COVID-19 has forever changed the way we live, interact, even breathe; through a mask! The biggest change that we fight to overcome is how to stay united as a community and help each other while maintaining social distancing guidelines and quarantine. 

We at SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow work hard every day to keep our local towns and municipalities safe and in the best position to combat the ongoing Coronavirus pandemic.

Don't let these uncertain times allow you to forget life's simple treasures that are still alive and well all around us. SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow can provide you with an increased sense of control and confidence that you are taking every measure to continue to hold your friends and family near and enjoy them this holiday season. 

Call us today at 603.893.9700 for a free quote on cleaning and disinfecting your home and/or business. 

Is your Plaistow, NH home ready for any Storm?

11/2/2020 (Permalink)

IF A DISASTER STRIKES, WILL YOU BE READY?

It is important to prepare your Hampstead, NH home before a disaster occurs. Consider the following steps to better prepare for an emergency situation.

• Sign up for local alerts and warnings, download apps, and/or check access for wireless emergency alerts. - Use Rockingham Alerts, Rockingham County NH Weather Alerts , and your local towns to have up to date information.
• Develop and test emergency communication plans with your coworkers and family to make sure everyone knows what to do.
• Assemble or update emergency supplies - including a gallon of water each day per person for at least 3 days, appropriate clothing for the time of year, non-perishable foods, etc.
• Learn about local hazards, and conduct a drill to practice emergency response actions.
• Participate in a preparedness discussion, training, or class.
• Collect and safeguard critical documents.
• Plan with neighbors to help each other and share resources.
• Document property and obtain appropriate insurance for relevant hazards.
• Make property improvements to reduce potential injury and property damage.

Knowing what to do in an emergency reduces the stress everyone feels. Take the time to prepare and in the long run, you and your family will be thankful! Call SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow with any questions or concerns. 603.893.9700

Meet our Newest Production Technician - Felix

11/2/2020 (Permalink)

Meet Felix!

Felix Hernandez is SERVPRO's new Production Production Technician and has completed our rigorous SERVPRO HERO READY training. This program teaches advanced cleaning and restoration techniques and how to properly use our state-of-the-art equipment. This training program also focuses on listening skills and customer service. Felix has been with SERVPRO for 2 months now and we have enjoyed sending his smiling face to any client home, from Salem to Danville, NH!  He has a great sense of humor and is one of the most polite and caring employees we have.  Always going the extra mile to ensure our customers are informed and happy. In the past, Felix has worked in the construction industry and restored John Deer equipment.  When not working, Felix enjoys spending time with his family and friends watching football!

Make SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow your next Employer!

11/2/2020 (Permalink)

Come Join our Team!

Our Franchise is seeking someone who is comfortable working hard in challenging situations, enjoys meeting new people, has excellent communication skills, and is a serious multi-tasker. If you are self-motivated and have superb interpersonal skills, then you’ll thrive in this work environment.

Are you highly dependable and super-excited about routinely exceeding expectations? Then you may be our perfect hero! 

As a valued SERVPRO® Franchise employee, you will receive a competitive pay rate, with opportunity to learn and grow. 

Primary Responsibilities 

• Inventory and load the work vehicle with equipment, products, and supplies needed for each project.
• Maintain a clean and organized vehicle and clean equipment appearance.
• Prepare rooms/areas for work activities. Set up staging area and equipment for each project.
• Leave jobsite with a clean and orderly appearance.
• Perform production processes following SERVPRO® production guidelines per work order per crew chief directions.
• Ensure clear two-way communication with crew chief and other technicians (especially regarding customer needs and concerns).
• Perform end-of-day/end-of-job cleanup and breakdown.
• Leave jobsite with a clean and orderly appearance.

Position Requirements 

• Effective oral communication
• Basic math skills
• Experience in cleaning/restoration preferred
• High school diploma/GED
• IICRC certifications preferred
• Ability to lift a minimum of 50 pounds regularly, occasionally up to 100 pounds with assistance
• Ability to climb ladders, work at ceiling heights, work in tight spaces (e.g., crawls spaces, attics)
• Ability to sit/stand/walk for prolonged periods of time
• Ability to repetitively push/pull/lift/carry objects
• Ability to work with/around cleaning products/chemicals
• Ability to travel locally and out of state when necessary
• Ability to successfully complete a background check subject to applicable law 

Pay Rate: Negotiable based on experience, with possibility of overtime pay and increases based on merit. 

Please visit our website, www.SERVPROsalemplaistow.com, for additional information.  

Job Type: Full-time 

Required license or certification: Drivers License

SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow is an EOE M/F/D/V employer

Your business is suffering - Count on SERVPRO

11/2/2020 (Permalink)

When fire or water damage puts the things that matter most on the line, you need the very best help on the line as well. That’s why knowing the easiest ways to contact SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow is so important. Just go to our website on your mobile phone or call 603.893.9700 to get the team that’s faster to any size disaster. We’re a leader in giving control back to homeowners, property managers, and even entire communities after the ravaging effects of water or fire. So whether you’re responsible for 1,000 square feet or 100,000 – be ready for the worst with the very best.

Here are 8 reasons why your company should get an Emergency Ready Profile^® today on every one of your buildings.

• A no-cost assessment of your facility.
• A concise Profile document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency.
• A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster.
• Establishes your local SERVPRO® Franchise Professional as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider.
• Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin.
• Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas, and priority contact information.

SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow is part of a Franchise System that has more than 50 years of leadership in cleanup and restoration. Our track record of results has earned us the trust of the insurance industry, countless homeowners in Danville, Hampstead, or Windham, NH, and in one unforgettable instance, even the Pentagon. We are quietly taking to the streets, every hour of every day, proving that whenever there is a house full of water or an office full of smoke, there is also a van full of clean.

Do's and Don'ts When Water Floods your Home or Business

11/2/2020 (Permalink)

Sewage backups and black water intrusions are more than nasty, smelly, deposits. These damages also introduce harmful microorganisms into a structure. The SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow Professionals remove sewage, contaminants, and moisture, disinfecting as they clean.  

 If you find yourself in a situation where a sewage backup is in your home or business, here are a few tips to consider before starting cleanup. 

Do:

• Avoid all contact with sewage and items contaminated by sewage. 
• Wash your hands thoroughly after contact with contaminated items. 

Don’t:

• Spread contaminated water by walking unnecessarily on damages or wet areas.
• Turn on HVAC system if there is a possibility of spreading contaminated air.
• Use household fans to dry the structure and spread contaminants. 
• Use products for personal hygiene and cleanliness if exposed to the contaminated areas. 

Be sure to call the Professionals at SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow at 603-893-9700. We are recognized as a leading restoration provider by hundreds of insurance companies. We offer fast and reliable remediation services to residential and commercial property owners. 

Flooding Can Happen Anywhere

8/19/2020 (Permalink)

Just because you haven’t experienced a flood doesn’t mean you won’t in the future. It happens fast and can happen anywhere. Having a plan for your home or business is critical for any severe weather event. Keep reading to learn more about protecting yourself, your business, and your property.

Homeowners

Develop a proper evacuation plan: Map out routes and mark areas or roads that might become unpassable due to flooding. If you approach a road or area that is flooded, turn around. Most cars can be swept away by less than 2 feet of moving water. If you are caught on a flooded road and waters are rising rapidly around you, get out of the car and move to higher ground.

Build an emergency care kit: Water, non-perishable food, battery powered radio, flashlights, first aid kit, personal hygiene items, cell phones and chargers, blankets, rain gear, extra clothing, baby supplies, copies of personal documents, and extra cash are some of the items to pack for you and your family. If you have pets don’t forget their supplies too!

Keep children out of the water: Kids are often curious and lack judgment or fear when it comes to water. Downed power lines and contaminated flooded areas add additional safety risks. Keep children close to you for their safety.

Extra Resources Never Hurt!

8/14/2020 (Permalink)

When water damage happens to your property in Salem or Windham NH, knowing who to call is the first step in relieving some of the stress. But when a flooding occurs? It is even better to know that we at SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow have a network of other franchises to pull in the equipment, resources and man power needed to help the large losses. Here are 5 examples of how we were able to support our local Plaistow, NH communities and others across the country.

• The Siberian Express in 2015 created record breaking broken pipes and ice dams. 257 SERVPRO crews helped during these ice dams, with even SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow calling in help from Alabama and Tennessee to help our home and business owners in and around Pelham, NH.
• In April of 2016, the southern states were engulfed in 2-4 inches of rain per hour. Eighty-one crews produced over 360 jobs in this historic event that left Harris County with 18 inches of rain.
• Over 830 jobs were created in 2016 during the Louisiana Flooding. Twenty+ inches of rain caused rivers and other waterways to rise and flood Southern Louisiana. At least 185 crews from across the country helped get the community back in their pre storm condition.
• Hurricane Matthew in caused flooding the East Coast from Florida to North Carolina. One hundred sixty-nine crews mitigated over $7.5 million worth of damage to business owners and homeowners alike.
• Lastly, in East Tennessee, one of the largest wildfires in history struck the Great Smokey Mountains. Over 17,000 acres burned, and twelve crews came to the rescue to help the seventy families and businesses get the fire damage and soot under control.

SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow and these other teams can make any disaster “Like it never even happened.” We are there, no matter how big or small, call us 24/7/365 at 603.893.9700.

During the Storm Tips for Safety

8/14/2020 (Permalink)

7/1/2019

Summer damage can be stressful, ruin vacations, and disrupt lives. SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow is here help you make it "Like it never even happened." With over 1,700 franchises to call on for support, no job is too small or large

We hope you have a safe August, remembering these tips when the storm hits:

• Use your battery-operated NOAA Wather Radio for updates from local officials.
• Avoid contact with corded phones. Cordless and cellular phones are safe to use.
• Avoid Contact with electrical equipment or cords.
• Unplug appliances and other electrical items, such as computers. Power surges can cause serious damage.
• Avoid contact with plumbing. Plumbing and bathroom fixtures can conduct electricity.
• Stay away from windows and doors.

For more information on Summer Safety tips, tune into our Facebook page or call 603.893.9700

6 Tips to Help Keep Your Summer Safe

8/14/2020 (Permalink)

Follow these steps to keep your family, friends and home safe!

While this time of year is a great time to enjoy BBQs, fire pits, and fireworks, it is also a time to be wary of potential fire hazards that could impact your home or business in Kingston, NH.

Here are 6 tips to help keep your Summer fun AND safe!

• Keep a bucket of water or, as is required in many towns, a hose handy near your fire pit. If embers float out of your fire pit, or a log falls down from your bonfire stack and sets nearby foliage, paper, or other flammable materials aflame, you don’t want to be scrambling for a way to put the fire out. 
• Supervise all fireworks that you are using (if fireworks are legal in your state, of course). Sparklers and pinwheels might seem “low risk,” but the reality is that there aren’t any fireworks out there that are safe enough for kids to use without adult supervision.
• It’s also important to ensure that no one tries to re-light fireworks that don’t work properly the first time. Dump these in a bucket of water and move on to the next package.
• Keep your grill or BBQ pit clean! Prevent accidental grease fires by cleaning out your pits or grease traps
• Inspect the area around your BBQ and campfire. It is important to make sure that you there is nothing flammable around where you are going to be lighting a fire. - Consider deck railings, overhanging, branches, dry grass, piles of dry wood and recycling, brush nearby
• When you will not be supervising the fire, make sure you put it out!

Thanks to American Alarm for this awesome information!

Keep us in mind if you are in the Windham, NH,  Danville, NH or Salem, NH area! 603.893.9700

Vacation tips for your Salem, NH Home!

8/14/2020 (Permalink)

Try to get out during COVID - 19 can be tough - but if you do - follow these tips!

School is out and summer is officially here. It’s vacation season! Before you leave from Windham, NH - read these tips!

No matter if you are choosing a staycation especially during the COVID -19 pandemic or making daily road trips, traveling across country or venturing overseas; it always seems to be top of mind to stop the mail and newspaper (or have a trusted neighbor gather them), have a plan for our pets, and clean out the refrigerator. But what about the important parts of our homes? The water, fire alarms, and smaller appliances. We tend to see an increase of water losses in the summer months because people go away and then come home to overflowed toilets, broken hot water heater tanks and washer pipes. We don’t want to see your return to home after a nice relaxing time turn to chaos. Below are some tips on preparing your home for vacation to hopefully make your return a little less stressful.

Water

Just like life there are so many pros and cons to this and you need to use your best judgment and what you are comfortable with in your home while you are away. But here is the deal, unless you shut off the main supply of water coming into your home, the water will sit in pipes, toilets, and faucets. Without anyone home to notice, if any of the pipes or lines fail, water will continue to run as if the source has been turned on and is running. This could leave you with a flooded home causing serious water damage and headache upon your return. Once you locate the main water shut off, it is an easy on and off, and brings you a little peace of mind.

Theft

We live in a social media world where we want to share everything the minute we are doing it. This also lets criminals know when your home will be vacant and for how long. It’s tempting to post pictures of your fun carefree time in Cabo or amazing ski trip in the mountains. Police will advise against this. You never know who might have access to your social media feed even if it is private. Police also suggest alerting them to your vacation. In many towns they will add your street to their patrol route as a precaution. As much as you want to share, it’s better to be safe than sorry and post once you return home.

Smoke Detectors

No one will be home and you never know what might be lurking behind your walls. Electrical fires happen every day! Before you head out, check your smoke alarms and be sure your batteries are new. No one wants to get a call from a neighbor that their house caught fire while sipping an ice cold beverage on the beach.

Trash & Dishes

While many of us keep it top of mind to make sure we have an empty dishwasher, sink, and trash barrel. In the rush to get out the door to catch a flight or beat the traffic we will brush off these items. Leaving a full waste basket in your house or dirty dishes is an open invitation for rodents to enter. Save yourself the hassle and take the extra 5 minutes so you can return to a rodent free house.

Small appliances

Unplug the coffee maker, television, toaster, alarm clocks, etc. No one will be home to use them anyway! This will help save energy in your home as well as help prevent any fire that might occur if there was a power surge while you are away.

These are just a few suggested tips to consider when preparing for your home for vacation. We hope you have a wonderful relaxing and enjoyable summer no matter where the road may lead you. If upon your return, you do find yourself in a situation requiring a little assistance, SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow is always here to help.

Traveling to an area affected by Hurricanes?

8/14/2020 (Permalink)

Stay Safe out there and wear your masks!!

Hurricane season typically runs between June and November. Whether you travel to an area strongly affected by hurricanes, or you feel the after affects of wind and rain, it is important to be vigilant during this storm season. Keep this in mind if you venture away from your home in and around Pelham, NH or Plaistow, NH.

Below are some tips to follow whether you own a home, RV, boat, car or all of them! You can see a storm coming by the change in color of the sky (often greenish), large hail, low-flying clouds and a roar like a freight train.

• Your basement or under a set of stairs are great places to wait out the storm. If this is not available, the bottom floor of any building will work.
• During an emergency, gas stations will often be closed, so always make sure you have at least half a tank of gas to get away instantly
• Have enough supplies on hand to wait out 72 hours, just in case help cannot arrive right away. These supplies can also be stored in the trunk (items like a first aid kit, bottled water, non-perishable foods, and medication can stay there at all times.)
• Make sure your cell phone is charged and keep your charger with you.
• Avoid driving in deep waters
• For your boat, remove non-secure items, electronics, excess gear, valuable, and important documents.
• Make sure all openings are clear of debris
• With your RV, do not drive it during the storm as it is more vulnerable to higher/stronger winds
• Make sure all documents are in a waterproof bag and with you at all times

Life can be unpredictable, but having plans in place help you with whatever may come. For more information, please check out these hurricane tips. As always, once the storm passes, contact your SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

Helping Our Salem/Plaistow Community

7/14/2020 (Permalink)

Working for SERVPRO in the water restoration and recovery industry can be demanding. Having to deal with real life emergencies on a daily basis takes a toll on people. Its customers like the one featured below, that make all the challenges worth it and reminds us why we keep doing what we do; SERVPRO is HERE TO HELP!

A women called in to report a pipe break in her new home in Salem, NH. She had just moved from Plaistow, NH and was so upset that her new beautiful home has suffered a smoke damage. SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow started the remediation process immediately and was able to clean and deodorize her home without disrupting her living situation. This homeowner was so grateful for our timely response and expertise she sent a huge bouquet of flowers to our office as a personal thank you for our services. 

Everyone at SERVPRO is so grateful to play even a small role in help home and business owners recover from damages caused by burst pipes or floods. No job is too big or small for SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow. Please call us today at 603893.9700 and ask about how we can help you!

SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow now offering Reconstruction!

7/14/2020 (Permalink)

Scott Massaro joins our team as the head of our Reconstruction Division and has completed our rigorous SERVPRO's Hero Ready Training. This program teaches advanced cleaning and restoration techniques and how to properly use our state-of-the-art equipment. This training program also focuses on listening skills and customer service. Scott has been with us for a few months and has been working diligently to learn and grow within our company. Scott brings 30+ years of construction and industry experience to SERVPRO!

SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow specializes in disaster restoration, cleanup and repair services, 
helping to remediate damage, making it “Like it never even happened,” for both commercial and 
residential customers. When fire, water, or mold disrupt your life, Scott and his team are there to help make the process as stress free as possible for you and your family. For more information on SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow, please contact 
603-893-9700 or office@SERVPROoflawrence.com.  

Mold Damage Experts!

6/11/2020 (Permalink)

This Plaistow company discovered an extensive mold infestation in their place of work, due to a leaking pipe that went undetected for a lengthy period of time.

SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow worked around the clock to remediate the problem, so that business could reopen as quickly and seamlessly as possible. This allowed the company to have little to no down time and kept productivity going. We know that commercial mold infestations can cost a business thousands of dollars in productivity; therefore it is always our goal to get you back up and running right away. 

If You See Visible Mold 

If you see visible mold, do not disturb it. You can inadvertently spread the mold infestation throughout your home or business. When mold is disturbed, the mold can release microscopic mold spores which become airborne and can circulate inside your home or business.

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow for mold remediation services.

What Not to Do:

• Don’t touch or disturb the mold.
• Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.
• Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself.
• Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.

SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow specializes in mold cleanup and restoration, in fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business.  Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 603-893-9700

How SERVPRO can help Atkinson Businesses!

6/11/2020 (Permalink)

Completing an Emergency Service Plan establishes your SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow as your disaster restoration provider, giving you access to over 44 years of experience servicing Plaistow, Kingston, Hampstead and other local areas in NH.

When it comes to your business, it is your pride and joy. You pray that a disaster never strikes, ruining all of your hard work.

Questions that run through your mind when disaster strikes, but is helpful to think of before that:

• Do you have insurance

• Do you have an emergency plan in place? Does your staff know about it?

• Can you access your business records if they were destroyed?

“Small business owners invest a tremendous amount of time, money and resources to make their ventures successful, yet, many owners fail to properly plan and prepare for disaster situations." An estimated 50% of business do not reopen after a disaster has happened.

Creating a business plan for disaster will help protect employees, shorten the amount of time you may have to be out of work, and possibly lessen the financial impact it will have on you.

1. Identify critical business systems – how long can they be down and what is needed to keep everything functioning.
2. Create an emergency communication plan with all those who have a stake in your business.
3. Build a supply kit that will keep your business and employees safe should you be at work when disaster strikes
4. Work with SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow to build an Emergency Ready Profile. This will provide the information for all emergency personnel that need to be contacted when disaster strikes and when our Team arrives on site, it gives the knowledge of your building before we even step in the door. This provides efficient and faster service for you!

For more information on how to help prepare your business for disaster, please contact us at 603.893.9700 or SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow.

Simply Fire Safety

6/11/2020 (Permalink)

While not popular in Salem or Pelham, NH area, a wildfire can occur anywhere-in fact, in 2014, wildfire occurrences were recorded in all 50 states. A wildfire can destroy homes, businesses, agriculture, and damage natural resources while threatening the safety of the public and the firefighters who protect our forests and communities.  

Wildfires or just fires in general, can occur at any time throughout the year, but the potential is always higher during periods with little or no rainfall, which make brush, grass, and trees dry and burn more easily. High winds can also contribute to spreading the fire.

If you live or work in an area prone to wildfires, consider the following safety tips to help prevent the spread of wildfire.

Fire Safety Tips

• Clear leaves and other debris from gutters, eaves, porches and decks. Remove dead vegetation from under your deck and within 10 feet of the house. This prevents embers from igniting your home.
• Remove anything stored underneath decks or porches. Screen or box-in areas below patios and decks with wire mesh to prevent debris from accumulating.
• Ensure flammable materials (firewood stacks, propane tanks, and dry vegetation) are more than 30 feet from your home or business's foundation and outbuildings.
• Wildfire can spread to tree tops. If you have trees on your property, prune so the lowest branches are 6 to 10 feet from the ground.
• Keep your lawn hydrated and maintained. If it is brown, cut it down to reduce fire intensity. Dry grass and shrubs are fuel for wildfire.

If your home or business ever suffers fire damage, in anyway, please let us help you make it "Like it never even happened." SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow is here to help and can be reached at 603-893-9700.

Summer Floods Dos and Donts

6/11/2020 (Permalink)

Living around many beautiful bodies of water like Canobie Lake in Salem, Cobbett’s Pond in Windham, or Country Pond in Kingston can be both a blessing and a curse as these can aid in causing flooding. Just because you haven’t experienced a flood doesn’t mean you won’t in the future. It happens fast and can happen anywhere. Having a plan for your home or business is critical for any severe weather event. Keep reading to learn more about protecting yourself, your business, and your property.

Homeowners

Develop a proper evacuation plan: Map out routes and mark areas or roads that might become unpassable due to flooding. If you approach a road or area that is flooded, turn around. Most cars can be swept away by less than 2 feet of moving water. If you are caught on a flooded road and waters are rising rapidly around you, get out of the car and move to higher ground.

Build an emergency care kit: Water, non-perishable food, battery powered radio, flashlights, first aid kit, personal hygiene items, cell phones and chargers, blankets, rain gear, extra clothing, baby supplies, copies of personal documents, and extra cash are some of the items to pack for you and your family. If you have pets don’t forget their supplies too!

Keep children out of the water: Kids are often curious and lack judgment or fear when it comes to water. Down powerlines and contaminated flooded areas add additional safety risks. Keep children close to you for their safety.

Keep SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow in mind if waters arise and trouble comes your way! We are always here to help! 603.893.9700

The Right Roof can be your Best Defense against Storm Damage

6/11/2020 (Permalink)

The right roof for your home in and around Salem, NH can not only look good, but always can protect your home during a storm. Here, we share a blog from Budget Dumpster on how to pick the right roof for you.

"Types of Roof Shingles

Asphalt

Of all the different types of shingles, these are the most commonly used because they’re the least expensive and relatively easy to install. These shingles are made of fiberglass mats coated with asphalt containing sand-like granules.

The downside: Asphalt shingles have a relatively short life span of 20 to 30 years, and they don’t fare well in areas where the temperature fluctuates unexpectedly, such as the Midwest.

Why choose asphalt roofing shingles? They’re the most economical of roofing options and come in plenty of styles and color selections.

Metal

This type of roof is made with many different materials – aluminum, steel, copper, zinc and titanium. If properly maintained, your metal roof could last as long as 50 years. You may want to consider metal if your home’s roofline is flat or steep.

The downside: Metal roofing can become noisy whenever it’s hailing or raining.

Why choose metal roofing shingles? They’re durable, fireproof and good at shedding snow and ice.

Slate

Not only are slate shingles durable – lasting anywhere from 80 to 100 years – they are also highly resistant to water and physical damage.

The downside: In addition to their high price tag, slate is expensive to repair because very few roofing companies specialize in this particular type of shingle. Furthermore, slate is rather heavy and may not be a good fit if your home can’t handle the weight.

Why choose slate roofing shingles? They’re one of the longest-lasting types of roofing material you can choose, and on the right style of home, adds a nice visual appeal.

Wood

Aside from being durable and having a lifespan of 30 to 50 years, wood shingles are more environmentally friendly than other types. This type of roof shingle is usually made of cedar, but can also be made of other rot-resistant woods, such as redwood.

The downside: Although energy-efficient and long-lasting, wood shingles are less fire-resistant than other types. They’re also more susceptible to termites and mold.

Why choose wood roofing shingles? They’re visually appealing and generally cooler than other types of shingles that are darker in color."

For more information on your roof or Budget Dumpster, please visit their blog.

If your roof doesn't hold up in a storm and you are a victim of water damage, please call us at 603.893.9700, to make it "Like it never even happened."

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned – a defensive cleaning program

5/27/2020 (Permalink)

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 perform. 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 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 Salem/Plaistow today at  603.893.9700 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.

Let SERVPRO Help Prepare Your Business From Water Damages to Pandemics

4/6/2020 (Permalink)

Is your business ready to handle a disaster like burst pipe or emergency disinfecting services?

When it comes to your business, it is your pride and joy. You pray that a disaster never strikes, ruining all of your hard work.

Questions that run through your mind when disaster strikes, but is helpful to think of before that:

• Do you have insurance

• Do you have an emergency plan in place? Does your staff know about it?

• Can you access your business records if they were destroyed?

“Small business owners invest a tremendous amount of time, money and resources to make their ventures successful, yet, many owners fail to properly plan and prepare for disaster situations." An estimated 50% of business do not reopen after a disaster has happened.

Creating a business plan for disaster will help protect employees, shorten the amount of time you may have to be out of work, and possibly lessen the financial impact it will have on you.

1. Identify critical business systems – how long can they be down and what is needed to keep everything functioning.
2. Create an emergency communication plan with all those who have a stake in your business.
3. Build a supply kit that will keep your business and employees safe should you be at work when disaster strikes
4. Work with SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow to build an Emergency Ready Profile. This will provide the information for all emergency personnel that need to be contacted when disaster strikes and when our Team arrives on site, it gives the knowledge of your building before we even step in the door. This provides efficient and faster service for you!

For more information on how to help prepare your business for disaster, please contact us at 978-688-2242 or SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow.

We are Cleaning and Disinfecting Experts

3/31/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is Here to Help

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 Salem/Plaistow - 603-893-9700

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

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/specific-groups/guidance-business-response.html

When the Sun comes out, will your place be Dry?

3/18/2020 (Permalink)

Now that winter weather is passing, it the best time to inspect your home or building for weather related damage. Snow and ice buildup, heavy rains and strong winds can all cause problems with your property. Roofs, glitters and landscape are exertion elements that should be checked to guard against water damage. Remember to look in attics, basements or crawl spaces for visible signs of water intrusion. Make sure outside vents are clear of any obstruction to ensure proper air flow. 

Ways to Prevent Water Damage

1. Clean and inspect gutters regularly

2. Keep downspouts clear of any blockage

3. Repair or replace roofing as needed.

4. Be sure soffit vents are clean and unobstructed. 

If you find a problem and need restoration help or want spring cleaning assistance, call SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow at 603.893.9700. We are on call 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. 

The Benefits of Dry Ice Blasting

2/10/2020 (Permalink)

Dry ice blasting is fast and effective.

Dry ice blasting is a revolutionary blasting method that uses dry ice pellets (CO2 in solid form) as the blasting material. The process is very environmentally friendly and provides a fast and effective alternative to traditional methods of cleaning industrial production equipment. 

• A dry cleaning process: Dry ice blasting is a completely dr process because dry ice pellets consist of CO2 and vaporize immediately on contact with the surface to be cleaned. 
• No water disposal: The system produces no waste products. Only the coasting that has been removed remains to be disposed of, and this can usually be swept or vacuumed from the floor. 
• Environmentally friendly: Dry ice blasting is completely non-toxic and no hazardous chemicals are used. Costs connected with the disposal of blasting materials and solvents are saved. 
• No Abrasion: Dry ice blasting is non-abrasive and therefore surfaces are treated very gently. Wear and tear resulting from the use of steel brushes, scrapers, and other blasting materials is avoided.
• Improved production time: Dry ice blasting often allows for your production equipment to be cleaned while in operation without a need for dismantling or costly downtime. 

Heating Safety

2/10/2020 (Permalink)

There is something about the winter months and curling up with a good book by the fireplace. But did you know that heating equipment is one of the leading causes of home fire deaths? With a few simple safety tips and precautions you can prevent most heating fires from happening. Be warm and safe this winter and remember to call SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow in cases of emergencies.

Safety Tips:
• Keep anything that can burn at least three-feet (one metre) away from heating equipment, like the furnace, fireplace, wood stove, or portable space heater.
• Have a three-foot (one metre) “kid-free zone” around open fires and space heaters.
• Never use your oven to heat your home.
• Have a qualified professional install stationary space heating equipment, water heaters or central heating equipment according to the local codes and manufacturer’s instructions.
• Have heating equipment and chimneys cleaned and inspected every year by a qualified professional.
• Remember to turn portable heaters off when leaving the room or going to bed.
• Always use the right kind of fuel, specified by the manufacturer, for fuel burning space heaters.
• Make sure the fireplace has a sturdy screen to stop sparks from flying into the room. Ashes should be cool before putting them in a metal container. Keep the container a safe distance away from your home.
• Test smoke alarms at least once a month.

nfpa.org/education ©NFPA 2017

Call us Fast - Thank us Later!

2/9/2020 (Permalink)

When fire or water damage puts the things that matter most on the line, you need the very best help on the line as well. That’s why knowing the easiest ways to contact SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow is so vital. Just go to our website on your mobile phone or call 603.893.9700 to get the team that’s faster to any size disaster. We’re a leader in giving control back to homeowners, property managers, and even entire communities after the devastating effects of water or fire. So whether you’re responsible for 1,000 square feet or 100,000 – be ready for the worst with the very best.

Here are 8 reasons why your company should get an Emergency Ready Profile^® today on every one of your buildings.

• A no-cost assessment of your facility.
• A concise Profile document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency.
• A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster.
• Establishes your local SERVPRO® Franchise Professional as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider.
• Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin.
• Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas, and priority contact information.

SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow is part of a Franchise System that has more than 50 years of leadership in cleanup and restoration. Our track record of results has earned us the trust of the insurance industry, countless homeowners, and in one unforgettable instance, even the Pentagon. We are quietly taking to the streets, every hour of every day, proving that whenever there is a house full of water or an office full of smoke, there is also a van full of clean.

Small Storms can cause Big problems

2/3/2020 (Permalink)

Practice caution when driving in any amount of snow!

At this point most of us living in Salem/Plaistow area know how to handle the big winter storms. We rush to the grocery store to get milk and bread because we are all convinced we will be in our house for days on end! The storms that bring feet of snow to our area, no school for days, and state of emergency to keep nonessential personal off the roads. You could lose power, which could cause food spoilage or frozen pipes… and let’s not forget if there is a quick warm up right behind it, you could experience flooding. The nice thing about these larger storms is that they give us time to prepare.

BUT what about the smaller storms? The ones that only bring a coating, inch or two of sleet, snow or ice? The ones that they always say won’t cause much of an impact?

Did you know these smaller, less significant storms can actually cause a greater impact to your home and business? Why? Because we don’t prepare as much. We are told they won’t be as big so we tend not to stress as much and let our guard down. Four wheel drive can plow through anything right… wrong!

So... what can you do?

1. Have a list of your vendors and an emergency ready profile (ERP) completed on your business as an additional add to your continuity plan. It saves you time, in the event this “insignificant storms” turns out to be a really big deal.
2. Just because there is a storm coming, your business operations cannot come to a halt. Set clear expectations for those in authority as well as non-critical employees in the event an emergency does occur. Is your emergency plan communicated by text, email, or phone call? Is everyone aware of this? It may also be beneficial to subscribe to and send out public transportation updates so no employees are left stranded at your office. Likewise is it acceptable for your employees to arrive late or leave early to ensure their safety?
3. With smaller storms we tend to not walk the perimeter of our business to inspect for damage or ice accumulation. By not doing this, it can lead to larger issues down the road or worse, a customer becoming injured. It is always a good practice no matter how large or small the storm might be to inspect your property and document everything. You never know when your insurance may need that information.

In the end, the size of the storm shouldn’t matter. As business owners preparation is key no matter what Mother Nature has up her sleeve. Contact your sales and marketing representative @ 603.893.970 to learn more about the emergency ready profile (ERP) and how it could benefit your business.

Small Storms can cause Big problems

2/3/2020 (Permalink)

Practice caution when driving in any amount of snow!

At this point most of us living in Salem/Plaistow area know how to handle the big winter storms. We rush to the grocery store to get milk and bread because we are all convinced we will be in our house for days on end! The storms that bring feet of snow to our area, no school for days, and state of emergency to keep nonessential personal off the roads. You could lose power, which could cause food spoilage or frozen pipes… and let’s not forget if there is a quick warm up right behind it, you could experience flooding. The nice thing about these larger storms is that they give us time to prepare.

BUT what about the smaller storms? The ones that only bring a coating, inch or two of sleet, snow or ice? The ones that they always say won’t cause much of an impact?

Did you know these smaller, less significant storms can actually cause a greater impact to your home and business? Why? Because we don’t prepare as much. We are told they won’t be as big so we tend not to stress as much and let our guard down. Four wheel drive can plow through anything right… wrong!

So... what can you do?

1. Have a list of your vendors and an emergency ready profile (ERP) completed on your business as an additional add to your continuity plan. It saves you time, in the event this “insignificant storms” turns out to be a really big deal.
2. Just because there is a storm coming, your business operations cannot come to a halt. Set clear expectations for those in authority as well as non-critical employees in the event an emergency does occur. Is your emergency plan communicated by text, email, or phone call? Is everyone aware of this? It may also be beneficial to subscribe to and send out public transportation updates so no employees are left stranded at your office. Likewise is it acceptable for your employees to arrive late or leave early to ensure their safety?
3. With smaller storms we tend to not walk the perimeter of our business to inspect for damage or ice accumulation. By not doing this, it can lead to larger issues down the road or worse, a customer becoming injured. It is always a good practice no matter how large or small the storm might be to inspect your property and document everything. You never know when your insurance may need that information.

In the end, the size of the storm shouldn’t matter. As business owners preparation is key no matter what Mother Nature has up her sleeve. Contact your sales and marketing representative @ 603-893-9700 to learn more about the emergency ready profile (ERP) and how it could benefit your business.

In an emergency - every second counts!

2/3/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow always putting safety first!

Worrying about the cleanup and restoration can be stressful, and many home and business owners are left with a feeling of helplessness and uncertainty. SERVPRO's Franchise Professionals know restoring peace of mind is just as important as restoring property.

SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow wants to be there in your time of need, helping you and your customers piece their lives back together.

Our goal is simple:

In an emergency situation, like a building fire, every second counts. How quickly you respond could depend on how prepared you are before the emergency. Emergency planning and training directly influence the outcome of an emergency situation. Facilities with well-prepared employees and well-developed plans are likely to incur less structural damage and fewer or less severe employee injuries.

When preparing a fire evacuation plan, it is important to designate multiple evacuation routes and exits. This ensures more than one way to exit the building, should an exit be blocked by fire. When choosing emergency exits, consider the following recommendations.

• Exits should be clearly marked and well  
• Exit routes should be wide enough to accommodate the number/volume of evacuating person
• Exit routes should remain unobstructed and clear of debris at all times.

If you  prepare  drawings  that  show  evacuation routes and exits, post  them  prominently  for  all employees  to  see. Once an  escape  plan  is created, it should  be  practiced  to help familiarize  staff  with  emergency  exit  routes. It is important to talk to your local fire department, as local codes may require more frequent drills  for various  facilities.

SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow can help with emergency planning by establishing an Emergency READY Profile, (ERP), for your facility. For more information about the ERP or emergency planning, contact

SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow 603-893-9700.

Why Choose SERVPRO Vacuum Freeze Drying

2/3/2020 (Permalink)

State of the Art Technique -Ready for your use!

• Vacuum Freeze drying is the most effective time way to salvage water-damaged documents. 
• The Document Restoration Team uses sublimation - turning a solid directly into a vapor, skipping the liquid stage to avoid causing more damage to the documents. 
• The state of the art technology used by SERVPRO technicians is the only method approved by the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) and the General Services Administration (GSA). 
• Other methods such as dehumidification can alter the structure of the paper’s fibers causing them to become more brittle.
• All employees of the Document Restoration Team are HIPAA Master certified. 
• Once your items arrive at the SERVPRO facility, 24/7 video surveillance is guaranteed. 
• Anyone entering the Drying Chamber Facility must sign in and out with their arrival and departure time.
• Standard drying time is 7-10 days. Time frame varies based on moisture content and backlog. Call a member of the Document Restoration Team for current lead time. 

Fireplace Safety

1/14/2020 (Permalink)

Chimney Safety Tips

Fireplace Safety

The holidays have come and gone. The new year and new decade are upon us which for those in New England, brings cold weather, ice, and snow. With colder weather, your fireplace becomes more than just a focal point of your home. For many, it becomes a heat source to keep you and your loved ones warm. It also helps keeps your house from freezing temperatures that could cause frozen pipes and water damage. Before you throw a log on the fire and light a match to keep your family toasty, consider these 8 tips to keep you safe.

1. Have your fireplace cleaned and inspected by a professional. There could be soot build up, cracks, or loose bricks.
2. Check your fire and carbon monoxide detectors to help avoid fire and smoke damage. It is a good practice to replace the batteries every spring and fall when we change the clocks.
3. Ensure your chimney is capped. This helps keep rain, birds, squirrels and debris from entering.
4. Use kindling to start the fire instead of flammable liquids. Also be sure to burn well-seasoned wood.
5. Don’t overload your fireplace. A fire that is too hot can crack your chimney, and could get out of control very quickly.
6. Use a spark guard to keep any ambers from shooting out damaging your floor and possibly igniting a fire.
7. Have a metal container nearby to remove and store hot ash. These ambers can stay hot for a while so be sure to keep it a safe distance outside away from your home.
8. Even if you had your chimney inspected, look for signs of creosote and soot buildup. Creosote is a dark substance that can build up if wood isn’t burning completely.

No need to get the chills this winter! By following these simple tips, you can help keep your family safe until warmer temperatures return. If you find yourself in situation where a fire or puff back has occurred, SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow is always here to help get your home back “Like it never even happened.” Call us at 603.893.9700 for a complimentary quote.

Emotional Impacts of Fire Damage

12/3/2019 (Permalink)

Let SERVPRO help you recover from this type of disaster

A fire or smoke damage can be very stressful event for any property owner. Physical damage can have enormous monetary impacts but those usually pail into comparison to the emotional impacts. This is where SERVPRO can help! Fast mitigation is the key to controlling damage, while reducing downtime and recovery costs. Here at SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow, understand how disruptive fires can be for business & home owners. Our service response guidelines can help prevent fire damage from creating long-term problems and lastly emotional scars.

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is unique, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and years of experience to restore your property after fire and smoke damage.  SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow will always treat you, your family, tenants and treasured items with care and respect.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?

Call Us Today – (603) 893-9700

Cold Temps can Bring New Troubles

11/19/2019 (Permalink)

Prepare your home and business before the weather becomes unpredictable!

With the holiday season upon us, this brings laughter, joy, and a lot of frigid weather! Freezing temperatures can bring burst pipes, puffbacks, ice dams, and even the dreaded flu. You’re in luck as there many things you can do to help prepare your home and/or business for all winter throws at us.

Getting your home ready:

Keep cabinet doors open during times of extreme cold so warm air can move around pipes.
Keep a slow flow of water coming through faucets especially if they run through unheated or exterior areas of your home.
Ensure all your gutters are clean and secure. Leaves and debris can accumulate in gutters which could lead to roof problems and water damage like ice dams.
Get your furnace serviced! Proper maintenance of your furnace can help reduce the risk of puffbacks.

Preparing your business:

Inspect your business property for downed tree limbs and branches these can cause personal injuries.
Check walkways and parking lots for proper drainage to reduce flood hazards.
Inspect all handrails, stairwells, and entryways to address and correct potentially slippery or hazardous areas.
Install mats or non-slip surfaces and post caution signs where water could be present.
Contact your local Sales & Marketing Representative at SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow and ask about starting and Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) for your business. Click here to learn more about the ERP.

Why Restoration is King

11/19/2019 (Permalink)

Don’t rip out what SERVPRO can SAVE!

Our goal at SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow is to save as much of your impacted property as possible, on every disaster. When assessing damage to your home or business after a fire, flood, storm, etc., our team will determine what can be cleaned and saved, such as furniture, contents, and structural materials. This allows you as the business or home owner to get your life back faster and with much less interruption.

Why restoration?

Restoration is much more cost-efficient than replacement. Sanding and refinishing our original hardwood floors will have a lot less impact on your wallet versus having to replace that floor and lose the original charm.

Offers you peace of mind. Many items cannot be replaced, such as important documents, antique furniture, and family heirlooms. SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow always walks through the property right from the start to ensure that old worn out teddy bear gets the treatment it needs to bring to back to preloss condition!
Saves time. No one enjoys having their kitchen or bathroom torn apart. Let SERVPRO restore!
It’s the preferred method of insurance companies. Insurance policies often have limits that cap the amount of a claim.
Better for the environment. Everything that is ripped up and taken away needs to go somewhere.

If you find yourself in the middle of disaster, our trained, certified professionals are just a phone call away. We are available 24/7/365 and we work with your insurance company to manage the process and paperwork. SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow would love the opportunity to work with you to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Why Restoration is King

11/19/2019 (Permalink)

Don’t rip out what SERVPRO can SAVE!

Our goal at SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow is to save as much of your impacted property as possible, on every disaster. When assessing damage to your home or business after a fire, flood, storm, etc., our team will determine what can be cleaned and saved, such as furniture, contents, and structural materials. This allows you as the business or home owner to get your life back faster and with much less interruption.

Why restoration?

Restoration is much more cost-efficient than replacement. Sanding and refinishing our original hardwood floors will have a lot less impact on your wallet versus having to replace that floor and lose the original charm.

Offers you peace of mind. Many items cannot be replaced, such as important documents, antique furniture, and family heirlooms. SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow always walks through the property right from the start to ensure that old worn out teddy bear gets the treatment it needs to bring to back to preloss condition!
Saves time. No one enjoys having their kitchen or bathroom torn apart. Let SERVPRO restore!
It’s the preferred method of insurance companies. Insurance policies often have limits that cap the amount of a claim.
Better for the environment. Everything that is ripped up and taken away needs to go somewhere.

If you find yourself in the middle of disaster, our trained, certified professionals are just a phone call away. We are available 24/7/365 and we work with your insurance company to manage the process and paperwork. SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow would love the opportunity to work with you to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Is your Business Prepared and Ready?

11/13/2019 (Permalink)

Helping business owners protect their business, from the palm of their hands.

Water Damage occurs as your business at 5pm on a Friday; do you know where the water shut off is, do your employees? If the answer is no, SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow can help!

An Emergency Ready Profile® also referred to as an ERP, is a no cost solution offered by SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow to all business owners in and around the Salem/Plaistow area. It contains significant information needed in the event of an emergency, and helps ensure your business gets back up and running fast!

Preparation is crucial for making it through any size business interruption whether it is a small water leak, large fire, or a burst pipe that flooded your business over the long holiday weekend. No one ever wants to think about these events and they usually happen at the most unfortunate times. However, forecasting for such disasters can save you a lot of time if you ever find yourself knee deep in waste water. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize any “down time” to your business.

When fire and water cleanup is needed, getting help is now quicker and easier using the SERVPRO® Ready Plan App. The Ready Plan is an emergency preparedness tool for home and business owners, property managers, risk managers and facility management. It allows for the creation of an Emergency Ready Profile® containing critical facility information to help speed up response time.

Simply Fall Preparation Tips

10/30/2019 (Permalink)

Stay safe and happy this fall season.

15 Simple Fall Preparation Tips

The cooler mornings and nights mixed with warmer days makes for wonderful color changes in New England. While you are out leaf peeping, enjoy cider donuts, and picking pumpkins your home will also need some attention to ensure its ready for the cold on the horizon. The weather can change quickly, and a bit of preparation now could save you from aggregation and costly repairs later.

Below are 15 items for you to consider when preparing your home for fall.

1. Reprogram the thermostat
   Keep the house warm when people are active, but don’t be afraid to lower the temperature when the family is sleeping or at work/school for the day.
2. Remove air conditioner(s)
   If you do not have the luxury of central air conditioning, be sure to remove any window units you placed in the windows over the hot summer. This will eliminate the cooler air from entering your home causing your heating source to work harder.
3. Close the pool
   If you have a pool and close it when the temperature drops, schedule a service or if you are handy, buy the supplies and do it yourself.
4. Clean your furnace and replace the filters
   Check your furnace for soot, and pilot light health. This is also a great time to switch out your filters; clean air is important when the house is closed for winter.
5. Inspect your fireplace and have it cleaned
   If you have a fireplace and plan on using it as the weather turns colder, have your chimney cleaned and inspected by a professional.
6. Insulate your pipes for the winter
   As temperatures drop below freezing, standing water in your pipes can start to freeze. By adding foam covers you can help insulate and protect your pipes.
7. Clean and prepare your outdoor furniture
   Clean and store seasonal outdoor furniture in a safe place. Cover with a tarp to protect it from snow, ice, and cold. If you have removable cushions, consider storing them indoors to help them last longer.
8. Check your water heater
   Your water heater has a lot of work to doin fall and winter. If you haven’t inspected your water heater lately, it may be time to clean it out or have it serviced. Overtime, it can get loaded with sediment, or other problems may arise that reduce its efficiency.
9. Prepare your entryway for mud and snow
   Having a place to store wet jackets and boots is a way to ensure it won’t make it into the house, causing more cleanup work for you.
10. Inspect your rook for leaks
    There is nothing worse for a homeowner than a leaking roof. To help keep small issues from turning into bigger disasters, inspect your roof using binoculars, to check for damaged or missing shingles. Also make sure your gutters are flowing freely of sticks and leaves.
11. Check your walkways and foundation
    Damaged walkways, driveways, and steps are a hazard year-round, but their dangers are compounded when the weather turns cold and icy. Fixing problems in the fall is also critical to preventing bigger. More expensive headaches come springtime.
12. Check windows and doors for drafts
    Remove screens and replace with storm windows/doors if you use them. Check seals around all doors and windows and caulk/insulate if necessary.
13. Organize the shed
    Move summer items to the back and winter stuff up front for better access. Doing this early will be helpful if snow or ice show up sooner than expected.
14. Leaf removal
    Rake and remove leaves from the yard in the fall to help save you a step in the spring. Check with your local city or town for requirements and pick up schedules.
15. Turn off outdoor faucets and store hoses
    Disconnect and drain any outside hoses you have used over the spring/summer to water gardens and lawns. Shut off exterior faucets to help prevent frozen pipes if a deep freeze were to occur in your area.

We at SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow hope you find these tips helpful.

Speeding up Mother Nature

10/21/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Crews Drying Out Residential House

So often we hear “Can’t control Mother Nature;” But what if you could speed up the process of drying when your home or business suffers an unfortunate event such as water damage from putting out a fire or burst water pipe. Did you know there is an actual science behind the process of drying? Before reaching for the towels, a mop, and a few fans, read on to learn more about this process.

Psychometrics is essential to restoring a water damaged structure to it preloss condition. The SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow professionals are trained in this science of drying and follow strict industry approved standards to help lower the chances of secondary damages. We will:

• Inspect the building to detect every component that is wet to help prevent secondary damage from happening.
• Measure how much moisture is in wet materials and monitor whether the materials are drying properly.
• Speed up Mother Nature by using professional drying equipment.

What does it mean to “speed up Mother Nature”? A wet building can often dry naturally because the environment always seeks equilibrium. When materials are wet, moisture will naturally move to drier air at the surface of the material, but only if the air is drier. The problem here is nature often takes too long and secondary damages may occur while the building is drying out.

Thankfully, the SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow professionals have the tools and equipment to help Mother Nature along to dry tough to reach places, hardwood floors, inside walls, and so much more. Using state of the art monitoring equipment and a proven scientific process we help speed up the drying process in your home or business. With the help of technology and our proprietary tool DryBook^TM Mobile, you have the ability to know exactly where your property is in the drying process. 

The bottom line? SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow has the professional training and equipment to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

What to do when your home or business suffers a sewage damage

10/21/2019 (Permalink)

Clogged pipes can cause a big issues to your home or business.

Sewage backups and black water intrusions are more than nasty, smelly, deposits. These damages also introduce harmful microorganisms into a structure. The SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow Professionals remove sewage, contaminants, and moisture, disinfecting as they clean.  

 If you find yourself in a situation where a sewage backup is in your home or business, here are a few tips to consider before starting cleanup. 

Do:

• Avoid all contact with sewage and items contaminated by sewage. 
• Wash your hands thoroughly after contact with contaminated items. 

Don’t:

• Spread contaminated water by walking unnecessarily on damages or wet areas.
• Turn on HVAC system if there is a possibility of spreading contaminated air.
• Use household fans to dry the structure and spread contaminants. 
• Use products for personal hygiene and cleanliness if exposed to the contaminated areas. 

Be sure to call the Professionals at SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow at 603-893-9700. We are recognized as a leading restoration provider by hundreds of insurance companies. We offer fast and reliable remediation services to residential and commercial property owners. 

The Do’s and Don’ts of Water Damage

10/2/2019 (Permalink)

Know how to protect your home or business!

Water is a vital element to our survival. We drink it, need it to shower and, to water our plants. We use it to wash clothes, clean bathtubs, and flush waste down the toilet. Just like when the power goes out, if we don’t have access to water, we are lost. 

There as so many ways water can damage your home. A washing machine might overflow, a water heater might break, or a leaky pipe from the bathtub that has been slowly dripping for years has finally sent water gushing through two floors in your home. Now what? 

Below are a few clean water do’s and don’ts to help put you at ease and limit the amount of damage. Do:

• Shut off water at the source if possible. If not, contact a qualified party as soon as possible.
• Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas only when access to the power source is safe from electrical shock.
• Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting. 
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removing lamps and tabletop items. 
• Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting. 
• Remove to a safe, dry place, any paintings, art objects, computers, documents, and other materials that are valuable or sensitive to moisture. 
• Hang draperies with coated hangers to avoid contact with wet carpeting or floors.

Don’t:

• Enter rooms with standing water where electrical shock hazards my exist.
• Enter affected areas if electrical outlets, switches, circuit breakers or electrical equipment are exposed to water.
• Leave books, newspapers, magazines, or other colored items on wet carpets to cause staining.
• Leave oriental rugs or other colored rugs on wet wall-to-wall carpets to cause staining.
• Use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water, possibly causing electrical shock or damage to the vacuum cleaner.
• Use TVs or other appliances while standing on wet carpets or floors, especially not on wet concrete floors.
• Turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet or enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water.

We at SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow are available 24/7 for emergency services. Call us at 603-893-9700 to schedule your no obligation quote today.

Meet Our Crew: Ralphie

9/24/2019 (Permalink)

Ralphie has a strong work ethic and is able to take charge of new jobs.

Rafael (Ralphie) Marquez is a Crew Chief with SERVPRO^® and has completed our rigorous Hero Ready Training, the IICRC's Water and Fire Training along with the Mold Remediation course. This program teaches advanced cleaning and restoration techniques and how to properly use our state-of-the-art equipment. This training program also focuses on listening skills and customer service. Ralphie has a strong work ethic and is able to take charge of new jobs. He has been working with SERVPRO for four years.  His enormous heart and endless patience has made Ralphie a customer favorite! He really does take the time to explain all areas of the job and make our clients feel as ease! Ralphie's family includes his mom and two sisters. When not at work, he enjoys playing various sports.and spending time with his wife.

Your Salem Business is In Good Hands with Us!

9/18/2019 (Permalink)

We’re a leader in giving control back to homeowners, property managers, and even entire communities after the ravaging effects of water or fire.

When fire or water damage puts the things that matter most on the line, you need the very best help on the line as well. That’s why knowing the easiest ways to contact SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow is so important. Just go to our website on your mobile phone or call 978-688-2242 to get the team that’s faster to any size disaster. We’re a leader in giving control back to homeowners, property managers, and even entire communities after the ravaging effects of water or fire. So whether you’re responsible for 1,000 square feet or 100,000 – be ready for the worst with the very best.

Here are 8 reasons why your company should get an Emergency Ready Profile^® today on every one of your buildings.

• A no-cost assessment of your facility.
• A concise Profile document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency.
• A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster.
• Establishes your local SERVPRO® Franchise Professional as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider.
• Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin.
• Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas, and priority contact information.

SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow is part of a Franchise System that has more than 50 years of leadership in cleanup and restoration. Our track record of results has earned us the trust of the insurance industry, countless homeowners, and in one unforgettable instance, even the Pentagon. We are quietly taking to the streets, every hour of every day, proving that whenever there is a house full of water or an office full of smoke, there is also a van full of clean.

Is SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow Your Next Employer?

9/18/2019 (Permalink)

Are you the next SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow Hero?

Our Franchise is seeking someone who is comfortable working hard in challenging situations, enjoys meeting new people, has excellent communication skills, and is a serious multi-tasker. If you are self-motivated and have superb interpersonal skills, then you’ll thrive in this work environment.

Are you highly dependable and super-excited about routinely exceeding expectations? Then you may be our perfect hero! 

As a valued SERVPRO® Franchise employee, you will receive a competitive pay rate, with opportunity to learn and grow. 

Primary Responsibilities 

• Inventory and load the work vehicle with equipment, products, and supplies needed for each project.
• Maintain a clean and organized vehicle and clean equipment appearance.
• Prepare rooms/areas for work activities. Set up staging area and equipment for each project.
• Leave jobsite with a clean and orderly appearance.
• Perform production processes following SERVPRO® production guidelines per work order per crew chief directions.
• Ensure clear two-way communication with crew chief and other technicians (especially regarding customer needs and concerns).
• Perform end-of-day/end-of-job cleanup and breakdown.
• Leave jobsite with a clean and orderly appearance.

Position Requirements 

• Effective oral communication
• Basic math skills
• Experience in cleaning/restoration preferred
• High school diploma/GED
• IICRC certifications preferred
• Ability to lift a minimum of 50 pounds regularly, occasionally up to 100 pounds with assistance
• Ability to climb ladders, work at ceiling heights, work in tight spaces (e.g., crawls spaces, attics)
• Ability to sit/stand/walk for prolonged periods of time
• Ability to repetitively push/pull/lift/carry objects
• Ability to work with/around cleaning products/chemicals
• Ability to travel locally and out of state when necessary
• Ability to successfully complete a background check subject to applicable law 

Pay Rate: Negotiable based on experience, with possibility of overtime pay and increases based on merit. 

Please visit our website, www.SERVPROsalemplaistow.com, for additional information.  

Job Type: Full-time 

Required license or certification: Drivers License

SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow is an EOE M/F/D/V employer

Meet Our Crew: Freddie

9/18/2019 (Permalink)

Fredrick Sullivan (Freddie) is a Production Crew Chief

Fredrick Sullivan (Freddie) is SERVPRO's new Production Crew Chief and has completed our rigorous SERVPRO Employee Certification Training Program. This program teaches advanced cleaning and restoration techniques and how to properly use our state-of-the-art equipment. This training program also focuses on listening skills and customer service. Freddie has been with SERVPRO for 2 years now and we have enjoyed sending his smiling face to any client home, from Salem to Danville, NH!  He has a great sense of humor and is one of the most polite and caring employees we have.  Always going the extra mile to ensure our customers are informed and happy. In the past, Freddie has worked in the construction industry and restored John Deer equipment.  When not working, Freddie enjoys building gas powered remote controlled cars and then racing them.

Preparing for the Storm that May Come to Salem, NH

9/4/2019 (Permalink)

IF A DISASTER STRIKES, WILL YOU BE READY?

It is important to prepare before a disaster occurs. Consider the following steps to better prepare for an emergency situation.

• Sign up for local alerts and warnings, download apps, and/or check access for wireless emergency alerts. - Use Rockingham Alerts, Rockingham County NH Weather Alerts , and your local towns to have up to date information
• Develop and test emergency communication plans with your coworkers and family to make sure everyone knows what to do.
• Assemble or update emergency supplies - including a gallon of water each day per person for at least 3 days, appropriate clothing for the time of year, non-perishable foods, etc.
• Learn about local hazards, and conduct a drill to practice emergency response actions.
• Participate in a preparedness discussion, training, or class.
• Collect and safeguard critical documents.
• Plan with neighbors to help each other and share resources.
• Document property and obtain appropriate insurance for relevant hazards.
• Make property improvements to reduce potential injury and property damage.

Knowing what to do in an emergency reduces the stress everyone feels. Take the time to prepare and in the long run, you and your family will be thankful!

National Day of Remembrance

9/4/2019 (Permalink)

People on a New York City street scan pictures of the many police and fire personnel still missing in the wake of the attacks as of September 28, 2001

In honor and memory of those who died on September 11, 2001, as well as the survivors and First Responders, National Day of Service and Remembrance was established in 2009 as a day of reflection.

Led by the Corporation for National and Community Service, this is a day to come together as Americans following the events of 9/11 to help neighbors in need and to honor veterans and First Responders in your community. On this day and everyday, SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow salutes those heroes who arrive in the greatest times of need and stand strong in the face of disaster. These heroes are the First Responders who keep our communities safe in trying times.

Give back and make a difference in your community this year. To find a volunteer opportunity near you, or to register your National Day of Service and Remembrance event, visit nationalservice.gov/911day

- From the SERVPRO Restoration Newsline Volume 20, Issue 9

(Photo Credit)

Understanding Fire Remediation in Plaistow, NH

9/4/2019 (Permalink)

Ask us to explain the various deodorization methods available and which will work best for you.

Fire or smoke damage is just as disruptive as water damage, though sometimes you can't see it as well. After the damage, ceilings, walls, woodwork, carpeting, floors and many contents will often need a thorough cleaning. Beyond that, a deodorization may need to take place.

SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow provides specialized services that rid your home or place of business of offensive odors left by fire or smoke damage. We do not merely cover up lingering odors with a fragrance; we seek out the sources of the odor and remove them. Ask us to explain the various deodorization methods available and which will work best for you.

SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow will be there throughout the remediation and restoration process to help. We work neatly and efficiently to help you regain control of our property when a damaging event has taken over. When in need, call SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow, (603) 893-9700, to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

Taking the Mundane Tasks Off Your List!

9/4/2019 (Permalink)

We can help with whatever happens, no matter how small or large.

Some days, there are tasks you just do not want to do. Instead of dreading them, here are some tips from Addicted 2 Success that can help motivate you.

1. Pick a day that you will do the boring tasks. In this way, your brain will only have to focus on them for the one day versus a little each day. “Your brain won’t need to switch between tasks, which mean you’ll be done faster. Plus, with the boring work out of the way, you can enjoy your more interesting work without any guilt.”
2. Turn those tasks into a game or something you enjoy. Gamification is “the process of turning an activity or task into a game or something resembling a game”. In this way, you are rewarded for doing these tasks that you like to do the least and it may make them go by faster.
3. Enlist the help of a friend or coworker. Having someone hold you accountable is always a way to stay on track. Discussing what you did and did not accomplish with a buddy can be motivation to check everything off your list.

To learn more and find some more tips on each of these things, please keep reading at Addicted 2 Success.

To take one more thing off your list, and help with your emergency plan, reach out to SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow for our no-cost assessment of your property to create an Emergency Ready Profile. We can help with whatever happens, no matter how small or large. If disaster strikes, it always helps to be prepared!

Extra resources never hurt!

7/1/2019 (Permalink)

It is great to know that we at SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow have a network of other franchises to pull in the equipment, resources and man power needed.

When water damage happens to your property in Salem or Windham NH, knowing who to call is the first step in relieving some of the stress. But when a flooding occurs? It is even better to know that we at SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow have a network of other franchises to pull in the equipment, resources and man power needed to help the large losses. Here are 5 examples of how we were able to support our local Plaistow, NH communities and others across the country.

• The Siberian Express in 2015 created record breaking broken pipes and ice dams. 257 SERVPRO crews helped during these ice dams, with even SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow calling in help from Alabama and Tennessee to help our home and business owners in and around Pelham, NH.
• In April of 2016, the southern states were engulfed in 2-4 inches of rain per hour. Eighty-one crews produced over 360 jobs in this historic event that left Harris County with 18 inches of rain.
• Over 830 jobs were created in 2016 during the Louisiana Flooding. Twenty+ inches of rain caused rivers and other waterways to rise and flood Southern Louisiana. At least 185 crews from across the country helped get the community back in their pre storm condition.
• Hurricane Matthew in caused flooding the East Coast from Florida to North Carolina. One hundred sixty-nine crews mitigated over $7.5 million worth of damage to business owners and homeowners alike.
• Lastly, in East Tennessee, one of the largest wildfires in history struck the Great Smokey Mountains. Over 17,000 acres burned, and twelve crews came to the rescue to help the seventy families and businesses get the fire damage and soot under control.

SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow and these other teams can make any disaster “Like it never even happened.” We are there, no matter how big or small, call us 24/7/365 at 603.893.9700.

During the Storm Tips for Safety

7/1/2019 (Permalink)

No damage is too large or small for a nationwide system of more than 1,700 Franchises.

Summer damage can be stressful, ruin vacations, and disrupt lives. SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow is here help you make it "Like it never even happened." With over 1,700 franchises to call on for support, no job is too small or large

We hope you have a safe August, remembering these tips when the storm hits:

• Use your battery-operated NOAA Wather Radio for updates from local officials.
• Avoid contact with corded phones. Cordless and cellular phones are safe to use.
• Avoid Contact with electrical equipment or cords.
• Unplug appliances and other electrical items, such as computers. Power surges can cause serious damage.
• Avoid contact with plumbing. Plumbing and bathroom fixtures can conduct electricity.
• Stay away from windows and doors.

For more information on Summer Safety tips, tune into our Facebook page or call 603.893.9700

6 Tips to Help Keep Your Summer Safe

6/25/2019 (Permalink)

Thanks to American Alarm for this awesome information!

While this time of year is a great time to enjoy BBQs, fire pits, and fireworks, it is also a time to be wary of potential fire hazards. 

Here are 6 tips to help keep your Summer fun AND safe!

• Keep a bucket of water or, as is required in many towns, a hose handy near your fire pit. If embers float out of your fire pit, or a log falls down from your bonfire stack and sets nearby foliage, paper, or other flammable materials aflame, you don’t want to be scrambling for a way to put the fire out. 
• Supervise all fireworks that you are using (if fireworks are legal in your state, of course). Sparklers and pinwheels might seem “low risk,” but the reality is that there aren’t any fireworks out there that are safe enough for kids to use without adult supervision.
• It’s also important to ensure that no one tries to re-light fireworks that don’t work properly the first time. Dump these in a bucket of water and move on to the next package.
• Keep your grill or BBQ pit clean! Prevent accidental grease fires by cleaning out your pits or grease traps
• Inspect the area around your BBQ and campfire. It is important to make sure that you there is nothing flammable around where you are going to be lighting a fire. - Consider deck railings, overhanging, branches, dry grass, piles of dry wood and recycling, brush nearby
• When you will not be supervising the fire, make sure you put it out!

Thanks to American Alarm for this awesome information!

Vacation Tips for Your Home

6/24/2019 (Permalink)

We hope you have a wonderful relaxing and enjoyable summer no matter where the road may lead you.

School is out and summer is officially here. It’s vacation season!

No matter if you are choosing a staycation and making daily road trips, traveling across country or venturing overseas; it always seems to be top of mind to stop the mail and newspaper (or have a trusted neighbor gather them), have a plan for our pets, and clean out the refrigerator. But what about the important parts of our homes? The water, fire alarms, and smaller appliances. We tend to see an increase of water losses in the summer months because people go away and then come home to overflowed toilets, broken hot water heater tanks and washer pipes. We don’t want to see your return to home after a nice relaxing time turn to chaos. Below are some tips on preparing your home for vacation to hopefully make your return a little less stressful.

Water

Just like life there are so many pros and cons to this and you need to use your best judgment and what you are comfortable with in your home while you are away. But here is the deal, unless you shut off the main supply of water coming into your home, the water will sit in pipes, toilets, and faucets. Without anyone home to notice, if any of the pipes or lines fail, water will continue to run as if the source has been turned on and is running. This could leave you with a flooded home causing serious water damage and headache upon your return. Once you locate the main water shut off, it is an easy on and off, and brings you a little peace of mind.

Theft

We live in a social media world where we want to share everything the minute we are doing it. This also lets criminals know when your home will be vacant and for how long. It’s tempting to post pictures of your fun carefree time in Cabo or amazing ski trip in the mountains. Police will advise against this. You never know who might have access to your social media feed even if it is private. Police also suggest alerting them to your vacation. In many towns they will add your street to their patrol route as a precaution. As much as you want to share, it’s better to be safe than sorry and post once you return home.

Smoke Detectors

No one will be home and you never know what might be lurking behind your walls. Electrical fires happen every day! Before you head out, check your smoke alarms and be sure your batteries are new. No one wants to get a call from a neighbor that their house caught fire while sipping an ice cold beverage on the beach.

Trash & Dishes

While many of us keep it top of mind to make sure we have an empty dishwasher, sink, and trash barrel. In the rush to get out the door to catch a flight or beat the traffic we will brush off these items. Leaving a full waste basket in your house or dirty dishes is an open invitation for rodents to enter. Save yourself the hassle and take the extra 5 minutes so you can return to a rodent free house.

Small appliances

Unplug the coffee maker, television, toaster, alarm clocks, etc. No one will be home to use them anyway! This will help save energy in your home as well as help prevent any fire that might occur if there was a power surge while you are away.

These are just a few suggested tips to consider when preparing for your home for vacation. We hope you have a wonderful relaxing and enjoyable summer no matter where the road may lead you. If upon your return, you do find yourself in a situation requiring a little assistance, SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow is always here to help.

Are you traveling to an area affected by hurricanes?

6/17/2019 (Permalink)

Whether you travel to an area strongly affected by hurricanes, or you feel the after affects of the storm, it is important to be vigilant.

Hurricane season typically runs between June and November. Whether you travel to an area strongly affected by hurricanes, or you feel the after affects of wind and rain, it is important to be vigilant during this storm season.

Below are some tips to follow whether you own a home, RV, boat, car or all of them! You can see a storm coming by the change in color of the sky (often greenish), large hail, low-flying clouds and a roar like a freight train.

• Your basement or under a set of stairs are great places to wait out the storm. If this is not available, the bottom floor of any building will work.
• During an emergency, gas stations will often be closed, so always make sure you have at least half a tank of gas to get away instantly
• Have enough supplies on hand to wait out 72 hours, just in case help cannot arrive right away. These supplies can also be stored in the trunk (items like a first aid kit, bottled water, non-perishable foods, and medication can stay there at all times.)
• Make sure your cell phone is charged and keep your charger with you.
• Avoid driving in deep waters
• For your boat, remove non-secure items, electronics, excess gear, valuable, and important documents.
• Make sure all openings are clear of debris
• With your RV, do not drive it during the storm as it is more vulnerable to higher/stronger winds
• Make sure all documents are in a waterproof bag and with you at all times

Life can be unpredictable, but having plans in place help you with whatever may come. For more information, please check out these hurricane tips. As always, once the storm passes, contact your SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

Flooding Can Happen Anywhere

5/15/2019 (Permalink)

It happens fast and can happen anywhere.

Just because you haven’t experienced a flood doesn’t mean you won’t in the future. It happens fast and can happen anywhere. Having a plan for your home or business is critical for any severe weather event. Keep reading to learn more about protecting yourself, your business, and your property.

Homeowners

Develop a proper evacuation plan: Map out routes and mark areas or roads that might become unpassable due to flooding. If you approach a road or area that is flooded, turn around. Most cars can be swept away by less than 2 feet of moving water. If you are caught on a flooded road and waters are rising rapidly around you, get out of the car and move to higher ground.

Build an emergency care kit: Water, non-perishable food, battery powered radio, flashlights, first aid kit, personal hygiene items, cell phones and chargers, blankets, rain gear, extra clothing, baby supplies, copies of personal documents, and extra cash are some of the items to pack for you and your family. If you have pets don’t forget their supplies too!

Keep children out of the water: Kids are often curious and lack judgment or fear when it comes to water. Down powerlines and contaminated flooded areas add additional safety risks. Keep children close to you for their safety.

Did you know?

4/19/2019 (Permalink)

Your disaster may not always be fire and water related, but the professionals at SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow are still Here to Help® when it comes to other situations.

Biohazard, crime scene cleanup, and vandalism services.

These are services you may never think of until a related disaster strikes your home, business, or property. Equipped with the knowledge, experience, and training, SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow will start helping the moment you call.

Exposure to biological and chemical contaminants can pose serious health consequences for building occupants, employees, customers, and owners. A failure to properly handle and safely remove such hazardous substances can contribute to unhealthy and even dangerous environments.

SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow are trained to safely and effectively remove biohazardous substances and prepare waste for proper disposal according to OSHA, EPA, and state and local health regulations. Equipped with the necessary safety equipment and cleaning products, SERVPRO® helps turn unsafe environments into clean, safe homes and offices. SERVPRO® can help with the following issues:

• Bloodborne Pathogens
• Methamphetamine Labs
• Crime Scene Residues
• Arson
• Vandalism
• Sewage Backups
• Black Water Intrusions
• Mold Mitigation and Remediation

Contact SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow at 603-893-9700 opt. 9 today for 24-hour emergency service. No matter how big or small, your SERVPRO® Professionals will be ready to help make your property damage “Like it never even happened.”

Small Business Week Appreciation

4/11/2019 (Permalink)

From May 5th to May 11th, America will celebrate Small Business Week, an annual event sponsored by the U.S. Small Business Association (SBA). According to Gregg White, owner of SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow, Small Business Week is an opportunity for national and community leaders to recognize the critical contributions of America’s entrepreneurs and small business owners to the country’s economy. White emphasizes there is nothing “small” about small business when it comes to its importance to the nation’s economic health. According to statistics from the SBA, 28 million small businesses in America account for 54 percent of all U.S. sales; of those 28 million businesses, the 600,000 U.S. franchised small businesses, like SERVPRO, account for 40 percent of all retail sales and provide jobs for some eight million people. As these local business people work to grow their businesses, they help create 21st century jobs, drive innovation, and increase America’s global competitiveness. 

For entrepreneurs like White, becoming a franchise owner is one path to small business ownership. “Entrepreneurship is at the heart of a successful small business—the drive to own and grow a business through your own efforts,” said Sue Steen, SERVPRO Industries, Inc., chief executive officer. “Franchise organizations like SERVPRO give entrepreneurs a framework for their ambitions, access to state-of-the-art tools and processes, and a road map for sound financial management and growth.” 

Some franchised small businesses offer entrepreneurs an opportunity to own and run their own small business while providing a service to the community they live and work in. With SERVPRO, for example, franchise ownership helps entrepreneurs combine their hometown knowledge and the emotional investment they have with their community with access to the latest disaster remediation technology and products. This combination creates a community asset that could prove invaluable to home and business owners who are struck by the unexpected. "I’m proud to be a small business owner in my community,” says White. “But, as a SERVPRO small business owner, I know that the unexpected can happen – a flood, a fire, an explosion, a storm, a mudslide, whatever the event might be – big or small. When the unexpected does happen, I’m also proud to know that my staff and I are ready to respond immediately and effectively to limit the damage to property and disruption to lives in my community. Having both an emotional and financial stake in the community is what distinguishes small businesses with local owners from other businesses. And that’s what makes small businesses such an important thread in the fabric of this country.” 

SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow specializes in disaster restoration, cleanup and repair services, 
helping to remediate damage, making it “Like it never even happened,” for both commercial and 
residential customers. For more information on SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow, please contact 
603-893-9700

Mold Doesn't Have to Hold You Down!

4/9/2019 (Permalink)

When mold is disturbed, the mold can release microscopic mold spores which become airborne and can circulate inside your home or business.

This Windham company discovered an extensive mold infestation in their place of work, due to a leaking pipe that went undetected for a lengthy period of time.

SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow worked around the clock to remediate the problem, so that business could be restored as quickly and seamlessly as possible. This allowed the company to have little to no down time and kept productivity going. We know that commercial mold infestations can cost a business thousands of dollars in productivity; therefore it is always our goal to get you back up and running right away. 

If You See Visible Mold 

If you see visible mold, do not disturb it. You can inadvertently spread the mold infestation throughout your home or business. When mold is disturbed, the mold can release microscopic mold spores which become airborne and can circulate inside your home or business.

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow for mold remediation services.

What Not to Do:

• Don’t touch or disturb the mold.
• Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.
• Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself.
• Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.

SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow specializes in mold cleanup and restoration, in fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business.  Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 603-893-9700

Preparing for Any Storm

3/26/2019 (Permalink)

Creating a business plan for disaster will help protect employees, shorten the amount of time you may have to be out of work, and possibly lessen the

The ERP also establishes your SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow as your disaster restoration provider, giving you access to over 40 years of experience.

When it comes to your business, it is your pride and joy. You pray that a disaster never strikes, ruining all of your hard work.

Questions that run through your mind when disaster strikes, but is helpful to think of before that:

• Do you have insurance

• Do you have an emergency plan in place? Does your staff know about it?

• Can you access your business records if they were destroyed?

“Small business owners invest a tremendous amount of time, money and resources to make their ventures successful, yet, many owners fail to properly plan and prepare for disaster situations." An estimated 50% of business do not reopen after a disaster has happened.

Creating a business plan for disaster will help protect employees, shorten the amount of time you may have to be out of work, and possibly lessen the financial impact it will have on you.

1. Identify critical business systems – how long can they be down and what is needed to keep everything functioning.
2. Create an emergency communication plan with all those who have a stake in your business.
3. Build a supply kit that will keep your business and employees safe should you be at work when disaster strikes
4. Work with SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow to build an Emergency Ready Profile. This will provide the information for all emergency personnel that need to be contacted when disaster strikes and when our Team arrives on site, it gives the knowledge of your building before we even step in the door. This provides efficient and faster service for you!

For more information on how to help prepare your business for disaster, please contact us at 978-688-2242 or SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow.

Mold Containment: It's Importance & Why We Use It

3/21/2019 (Permalink)

While remediating this mold, we will build containments to prevent it from spreading while we are working.

This information was taken fromRestoration and Remediation, an online magazine. It is beneficial to share information with you regarding mold and why we use containment in the remediation process.

"The great mold warriors we meet and work with on a daily basis all have a common advantage- like the greatest generals in history, they know their enemy. More specifically they know and understand that the greatest strength of their enemy is its invisibility.

Before your own battle begins, you have to understand that you must strategically approach the enemy by devising systems to discover, collect, and contain it which will work despite your inability to visualize its presence. 

Erecting containment and generating and directing the air flow within that containment will enable us to win the air war, by controlling the enemy's movement. 

Where is the most strategic location of this containment?  It should be placed as close to the source of invasion as possible while still permitting us to gain access and accomplish our work.

Taken to its extreme, if it allows you to do what you need, it can be as small as a glove bag over a pipe, such as is used by our asbestos warrior brethren.

One of the most common flaws in mold remediation projects is a containment structure that is larger than it needs to be:  Larger containments require more equipment for managing airflow, have more possible leak points, and require more time and effort to decontaminate prior to de-mobilization. While erecting a containment, one must carefully balance the trade-offs between size and work access.

To do so, one can rely on the knowledge of experienced mold warriors and follow the established principles."

When mold affects your home, call SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow to help guide you through the process. From bringing in an Industrial Hygienist, to cleaning, to disinfecting, we will be here.

Fireplace Safety in Windham, NH

3/1/2019 (Permalink)

Photo courtesy of pixabay.com

With cold weather upon us, your fireplace becomes more than just a focal point of your home. Before you throw a log on the fire and light a match to keep your family toasty and warm, consider these 8 tips to keep them safe.

1. Have your fireplace cleaned and inspected by a professional. There could be soot build up, cracks, or loose bricks.
2. Check your fire and carbon monoxide detectors to help avoid fire and smoke damage. It is a good practice to replace the batteries every spring and fall when we change the clocks.
3. Ensure your chimney is capped. This keeps rain, birds, squirrels and debris from entering.
4. Use kindling to start the fire instead of flammable liquids. Also be sure to burn well-seasoned wood.
5. Don’t overload your fireplace. A fire that is too hot can crack your chimney, and could get out of control very quickly.
6. Use a spark guard to keep any ambers from shooting out damaging your floor and possibly igniting a fire.
7. Have a metal container nearby to remove and store hot ash. These ambers can stay hot for a while so be sure to keep it a safe distance outside away from your home.
8. Even if you had your chimney inspected, look for signs of creosote and soot buildup. Creosote is a dark substance that can build up if wood isn’t burning completely.

No need to get the chills this winter! By following these simple tips, you can help keep your family safe until warmer temperatures return.

When disaster threatens a community...

2/6/2019 (Permalink)

No matter what part of the country you call home, we want to ensure you are prepared for any type of disaster.

When disaster threatens a community, it is often too late to take the necessary steps to prepare homes, businesses and family members for the situation. Whether it's a blizzard, flood, hurricane or wildfire, disasters of all types often give little to no warning before they strike. The time to prepare for a storm is not as it approaches-the time to prepare is now.

No matter what part of the country you call home, we want to ensure you are prepared for any type of disaster. Whether you have damage caused by a hurricane, tornado, flash flood, or any other reason, SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow have the resources, experience and training to help get your doors reopened for business as soon as possible.

If your property suffers a fire or water damage, SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow will be ready to help you make it "Like it never even happened."

We recommend always having an emergency kit on hand whether it is for your home or business. These can even be kept in your car. Here are some items to help you build your own emergency kit

• Water (one gallon per person per day)
• Food (non-perishable 3-day supply)
• Manual can opener
• Battery operated radio, preferably a NOAA Weather Radio
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• First aid kit
• Whistle to signal for help
• Clothing
• Dust masks or bandanas
• Plastic sheeting, garbage bags and duct tape
• Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
• Hygiene items
• Important documents; copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account information
• Cash
• Fire extinguisher
• Matches in a waterproof container

As always, to learn more about how SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow can help your business survive a disaster, please call us 603-893-9700.

What about those smaller storms?

2/1/2019 (Permalink)

As business owners preparation is key no matter what Mother Nature has up her sleeve.

We all know how to handle those big winter storms. You know the ones the news predicts a week out that has you rushing to the grocery store to get milk and bread because we are all convinced we will be in our house for days. The storms that bring feet of snow to our area, no school for days, and state of emergency to keep nonessential personal off the roads. You could lose power, which could cause food spoilage or frozen pipes… and let’s not forget if there is a quick warm up right behind it, you could experience flooding. The nice thing about these larger storms is that they give us time to prepare.

BUT what about the smaller storms? The ones that only bring a coating, inch or two of sleet, snow or ice? The ones that they always say won’t cause much of an impact?

Did you know these smaller, less significant storms can actually cause a greater impact to your home and business? Why? Because we don’t prepare as much. We are told they won’t be as big so we tend not to stress as much and let our guard down.

So... what can you do?

1. Have a list of your vendors and an emergency ready profile (ERP) completed on your business as an additional add to your continuity plan. It saves you time, in the event this “insignificant storms” turns out to be a really big deal.
2. Just because there is a storm coming, your business operations cannot come to a halt. Set clear expectations for those in authority as well as non-critical employees in the event an emergency does occur. Is your emergency plan communicated by text, email, or phone call? Is everyone aware of this? It may also be beneficial to subscribe to and send out public transportation updates so no employees are left stranded at your office. Likewise is it acceptable for your employees to arrive late or leave early to ensure their safety?
3. With smaller storms we tend to not walk the perimeter of our business to inspect for damage or ice accumulation. By not doing this, it can lead to larger issues down the road or worse, a customer becoming injured. It is always a good practice no matter how large or small the storm might be to inspect your property and document everything. You never know when your insurance may need that information.

In the end, the size of the storm shouldn’t matter. As business owners preparation is key no matter what Mother Nature has up her sleeve. Contact your sales and marketing representative to learn more about the emergency ready profile (ERP) and how it could benefit your business.

Preparing for a Fire, Large or Small

2/1/2019 (Permalink)

If your home or business ever suffers fire damage, in anyway, please let us help you make it "Like it never even happened."

While not popular in Salem or Plaistow area, a wildfire can occur anywhere-in fact, in 2014, wildfire occurrences were recorded in all 50 states. What is a wildfire? It is an unplanned, unwanted fire burning in a natural area, such as a forest, grassland, or prairie. A wildfire can destroy homes, businesses, agriculture, and damage natural resources while threatening the safety of the public and the firefighters who protect our forests and communities.  

Wildfires or just fires in general, can occur at any time throughout the year, but the potential is always higher during periods with little or no rainfall, which make brush, grass, and trees dry and burn more easily. High winds can also contribute to spreading the fire.

If you live or work in an area prone to wildfires, consider the following safety tips to help prevent the spread of wildfire.

Fire Safety Tips

• Clear leaves and other debris from gutters, eaves, porches and decks. Remove dead vegetation from under your deck and within 10 feet of the house. This prevents embers from igniting your home.
• Remove anything stored underneath decks or porches. Screen or box-in areas below patios and decks with wire mesh to prevent debris from accumulating.
• Ensure flammable materials (firewood stacks, propane tanks, and dry vegetation) are more than 30 feet from your home or business's foundation and outbuildings.
• Wildfire can spread to tree tops. If you have trees on your property, prune so the lowest branches are 6 to 10 feet from the ground.
• Keep your lawn hydrated and maintained. If it is brown, cut it down to reduce fire intensity. Dry grass and shrubs are fuel for wildfire.

If your home or business ever suffers fire damage, in anyway, please let us help you make it "Like it never even happened." SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow is here to help and can be reached at 603-893-9700.

When Every Second Counts

2/1/2019 (Permalink)

Facilities with well-prepared employees and well-developed plans are likely to incur less structural damage and fewer or less severe employee injuries

Worrying about the cleanup and restoration can be stressful, and many home and business owners are left with a feeling of helplessness and uncertainty. SERVPRO's Franchise Professionals know restoring peace of mind is just as important as restoring property.

SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow wants to be there in your time of need, helping you and your customers piece their lives back together.

Our goal is simple:

In an emergency situation, like a building fire, every second counts. How quickly you respond could depend on how prepared you are before the emergency. Emergency planning and training directly influence the outcome of an emergency situation. Facilities with well-prepared employees and well-developed plans are likely to incur less structural damage and fewer or less severe employee injuries.

When preparing a fire evacuation plan, it is important to designate multiple evacuation routes and exits. This ensures more than one way to exit the building, should an exit be blocked by fire. When choosing emergency exits, consider the following recommendations.

• Exits should be clearly marked and well  
• Exit routes should be wide enough to accommodate the number/volume of evacuating person
• Exit routes should remain unobstructed and clear of debris at all times.

If you  prepare  drawings  that  show  evacuation routes and exits, post  them  prominently  for  all employees  to  see. Once an  escape  plan  is created, it should  be  practiced  to help familiarize  staff  with  emergency  exit  routes. It is important to talk to your local fire department, as local codes may require more frequent drills  for various  facilities.

SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow can help with emergency planning by establishing an Emergency READY Profile, (ERP), for your facility. For more information about the ERP or emergency planning, contact

SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow 603-893-9700.

When Waters Come Flooding, Stay Away!

2/1/2019 (Permalink)

Photo Credit: NHPR

Floods rank as one of the most common and widespread natural disasters in the United States. Whether you live near a coastline, along city streets, in the mountains, near a river or even in the desert, there is a potential for suffering from flood damage.

Just because you haven't experienced  a  flood  in  the past,  doesn’t  mean  you  won't  in  the future.  In fact, 20% of all claims paid by the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) were for policies in low-risk communities. On average, floods cost $3 billion in annual losses in the United States. Commercial flood claims average more than $75,000.

According to the American Red Cross (ARC), floods cause more damage in the U.S. every year than any other weather-related disaster.  The ARC offers the following flood safety tips.

• Stay away from floodwaters. If you come up on a flowing scream where water is above your ankles, stop, rum around and go another Six inches of swiftly moving water can  sweep you  off of your feet.
• If you approach  a flooded  road while driving, turn around and go another way. If you are caught on a flooded road  and waters are rising rapidly around  you,  get out of the car quickly and move to higher ground. Most cars can be swept away by less than two feet of moving water.
• Keep children out of the water. They are curious and often lack judgment about run ning water or contaminated water. Keep your pets out of the water too.

If a flood does strike your home or business, contact SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow. Even minor floods have the potential to cause major damage to a  structure when not treated quickly and properly, and the cleanup is often an overwhelming task. The SERVPRO® System is prepared to handle any sized disaster. The sooner work begins, the sooner order can be restored.

When fire and water take control of your life, SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow will help you take it back.

Photo Credit: NHPR

We Understand the Stress of Mold

2/1/2019 (Permalink)

Although every mold damage scenario is different requiring a unique solution, the general mold remediation process stays the same.

When there's some sort of water intrusion into your home that goes untreated, mold can quickly become a problem in your home. Mold can possibly cause health effects (ask your doctor for details) and can also cause significant damage to your property. Fortunately, SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow has the training, protective gear, and specialized equipment necessary to handle your mold problem. Although every mold damage scenario is different requiring a unique solution, the general mold remediation process stays the same. The following steps illustrate a "typical" mold removal process.

Call 603-893-9700 for help with your mold remediation needs.

The mold cleanup and restoration process begins when you call SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow. A representative will ask a series of questions to help determine the necessary equipment, resources, and personnel needed.

Inspection and Damage Assessment

Your property will be carefully inspected for signs of mold using technology designed to detect mold and hidden water sources. Mold feeds on cellulose and water and can be hidden from plain view.

Mold Containment

Various containment procedures will be placed to prevent the spread of mold and isolate the contaminated area with physical barriers and negative air pressure to keep the mold spores from spreading during the cleanup process.

Air Filtration

Specialized filtration equipment captures microscopic    mold spores out of the air. SERVPRO® technicians utilize powerful air scrubbers and HEPA vacuums to prevent the spread of these mold spores while the mold remediation is in progress.

Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials The mold remediation process depends on the amount of mold growth and the types of surfaces on which the mold appears. Antifungal and antimicrobial treatments will be used to eliminate mold colonies and help prevent new colonies from forming. Removing and disposing of mold-infested porous materials, like drywall and flooring, may be necessary to remediate heavy mold growth.

Cleaning Contents and Belongings SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals clean your furniture, decorative items, curtains, and other restorable items affected by mold. They use a variety of cleaning techniques to clean and sanitize your belongings.  They are also trained to remove odors and deodorization using fogging equipment.

Restoration

Depending on the level of mold damage, drywall, subfloors, and other building materials may be removed. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet; or it may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.

SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow understands mold and mold growth and have the training and equipment to remediate mold in your home or business.

Keeping Your Home Safe From Mold

2/1/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow has the equipment, training and experience to find and dry unseen water before secondary damages like mold occur.

Even small water damages have the potential to cause serious structural and microbial growth damage if left untreated. 

The key to avoiding costly future restoration is to handle every water problem as a real threat to your property. SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow has the equipment, training and experience to find and dry unseen water before secondary damages like mold occur. The proper equipment makes a measurable difference in reducing the damage expense during a fire or water loss.

SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow will answer your call with fast action and a full arsenal of drying equipment. Here are a few of the tools used by your local SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals.

• Moisture Sensors are used to detect moisture in carpets, baseboards and Moisture Meters (pictured) are used to determine the actual moisture content of various materials. The moisture tester provides accurate readings, allowing SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals to monitor the drying process.
• Thermohygrometers measure temperature and relative humidity. When armed with this information, SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow can calculate and create an environment most conclusive to drying.
• When facing a contaminated water loss, it is not only important to dry the structure, but the structure must also be disinfected and often deodorized.
• Ultra-Low-Volume (ULV) Foggers will atomize liquid deodorizing agents, producing a fine mist that can easily penetrate the site where odor-causing residues may accumulate. This device can also be used to inject fungicides and disinfectants into wall cavities and other hard-to-reach
• Thermal Foggers (pictured) dispense solvent-based produces by creating a dense fog. The fog consists of tiny particles of deodorant solution that attach to and neutralize odor­ causing particles.

What is the bottom line? SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow (603-893-9700) has the training and equipment to help make it "Like it never even happened."

Mold & You: What Can You Expect

1/3/2019 (Permalink)

Organic materials found inside a building, such as wood, paper, drywall and insulation, provide food sources for mold to flourish.

Fungi and mold naturally occur in our environment. In fact, over 100,000 kinds of fungi have been identified.

Fungi produce some very useful results. Yeast is a type of fungi used in breads, baked goods and other food products, including some alcoholic beverages. The unique flavor of blue cheese is a result of mold. An edible mushroom is simply a type of fungi, and lifesaving penicillin is a product of mold (Penicillin chrysogenum).

Even though some forms of mold can add value to our lives, other forms can be harmful. Excessive amounts of mold, different types of mold, and/or exposure to molds may present health concerns for some people.

Intrusion of water into your home or place of business can result in mold growth. Water intrusions can result from storm damage, plumbing or equipment failures, long-standing leaks and poor humidity control. When water intrusions are not addressed right away, the resulting damage can present increased risk of harmful mold growth. Some amount of mold spores is normally present in most environments. If the humidity and moisture levels in water-damaged environments are not promptly returned to normal, mold spores may grow and multiply. Organic materials found inside a building, such as wood, paper, drywall and insulation, provide food sources for mold to flourish. Excessive mold growth can lead to indoor environmental conditions that pose a health threat.

If you are in need of mold remediation services, please contact SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow to schedule an appointment or call 603-893-9700. We are here to make it "Like it never even happened."

Restore vs. Replace

12/17/2018 (Permalink)

Wouldn’t it just be easier and faster to demolish and rebuild? They make it look so easy on all those TV shows, but is it covered by your insurance.

Restore vs. Replace

The goal at SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow on every disaster is to restore over replace. But why should you consider restoring over replacing? Isn’t this a great time to remodel and get that dream kitchen or bathroom you have always wanted? Wouldn’t it just be easier and faster to demolish and rebuild? I mean they make it look so easy on all those TV shows, but is it covered by your insurance policy?

Why restoration?

• Restoration is much more cost-efficient than replacement. Did you know that it is more cost effective to restore your wet/damaged floor than it is to rip it up and replace it?
• Gives you peace of mind. Many items cannot be replaced, such as important documents, antique furniture, and family heirlooms. New is not always the better answer when it comes to memories.
• Saves time. Drying a wet floor will get you back to your preloss condition a lot sooner than, tearing out and laying down a new floor.
• It’s the preferred method of insurance companies. Insurance policies often have limits that cap the amount of a claim.
• Better for the environment. Everything that is ripped up and taken away needs to go somewhere.
  

If you find yourself in the middle of disaster, our trained, certified professionals are just a phone call away. We are available 24/7/365 and we work with your insurance company to manage the process and paperwork. SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow would love the opportunity to work with you to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Arson, Vandalism, Methamphetamine Labs, and Blood borne Pathogens

12/3/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow Professionals has the necessary tools to safely complete these jobs so that it is safe for all to return.

Blood borne Pathogens

We remove and dispose of bodily fluids, tissue, and other pathogenic substances resulting from accident, trauma, crime, or death. Trained Professionals thoroughly clean, disinfect, and deodorize the structure.

Methamphetamine Labs

Many of the chemicals used in the production of illegal drugs are volatile and can leave harmful residues throughout at structure. We follow federal and state guidelines to clean all surfaces.

Arson and Vandalism

We are recognized as leaders at helping property owners recover quickly from fire and water damage. We also provide general cleaning and deodorization services for situations resulting from vandalism including graffiti, egg, spoiled foods, and human or animal waste.

SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow Professionals has the necessary tools to safely complete these jobs so that it is safe for all to return, whether it be home or to work. 

What to expect in winter – Salem/Plaistow New Hampshire

11/26/2018 (Permalink)

We have outlined a few of the hazards often seen when we are in the dead of winter.

What to expect in winter – Salem/Plaistow New Hampshire

Frozen pipes, puffbacks, ice dams, and the flu. Yes the fresh fallen snow is a beautiful sight for many, but all the complications that can accompany winter may leave you a little uneasy. Maybe you are a new home owner or business owner? Maybe this is your first time in a location where temperatures often dip into the negatives? Either way we have outlined a few of the hazards often seen when we are in the dead of winter.

Frozen Pipes

A frozen pipe can burst at the point where the ice blockage inside the pipe is located, but typically the rupture is caused by the backflow pressure between the water sources and the blockage. A burst pipe can cause considerable damage to your property if not addressed quickly. To learn about how to prepare your home or business click here. (link to winter weather blog)

Ice Dams

Ice dams form when heated air melts roof snow downward into water dammed behind still frozen ice. When the trapped water cannot safely flow or run into the gutter system, it can backflow under shingles and into your structure’s interior. Ice dams can be a major problem during the winter months. Be sure all gutters are cleaned and secured.

Puffbacks, Chimneys, and Space Heaters

A puffback is a messy furnace malfunction that occurs when an oil burner backfires, sending soot throughout your home or business. It can happen all at once covering an interior in grimy soot or a puffback can leak soot particles more gradually. Likewise a chimney fire could end smoke billowing throughout your home. Proper maintenance of your furnace and regular chimney checkups can help reduce these risks.

Space heaters present a greater potential for human error such as leaving them too close to combustible materials or failing to operate and maintain them properly. It’s important to remember to never sleep or leave a room with a portable heater still on, and keep combustibles at least 3 feet away.

Flu Season

Every year it seems that cold & flu season hits us earlier and harder than the year before. You can help prevent the spread of flu germs by depending on us to sanitize building materials, surfaces, and contents following restoration industry standards. We use professional cleaning products and EPA-registered cleaners and disinfectants.

Be prepared this winter and know SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow is available 24/7/365.

Fire Damage in Kingston, NH

11/21/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow will always treat you, your tenant, and all those involved with empathy and respect and your property with care.

A business fire can be very stressful event for any property owner. Damage to personal belongings, contents of the building, and structure are just one concern. Timely mitigation is the key to controlling damage, while reducing downtime and recovery costs. Here at SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow, understand how disruptive fires can be for business owners, their tenants and even their customers. That is why we offer 24-hour emergency response. Our service response guidelines can help prevent fire damage from creating long-term problems. 

Smoke alarm facts:

• Install smoke alarms on every level of the business, including the basement if your building has one.
• If your business has a kitchen, smoke alarms should be installed generally 10 feet from any cooking appliance
• Test the smoke alarms once a month
• When you change your clocks twice a year, change the batteries in the alarms also
• Replace the device when it is ten years old

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your business after fire and smoke damage.  SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow will always treat you, your tenant, and all those involved with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?

Call Us Today – (603) 893-9700

Biohazard, Vandalism, Hoarding, Sewage & Crime Scene Remediation and Cleanup

11/21/2018 (Permalink)

As items pile up in a home it can create a serious safety hazard. Hoarder homes become a breeding ground for pests and possibly unsafe pathogens.

Biohazard, Vandalism & Crime Scene Remediation and Cleanup

Exposure to biological and chemical contaminants can pose serious health consequences for building occupants, employees, customers and owners. Failure to properly handle and safely remove such substances can contribute to unhealthy and even dangerous environments.

SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow Professionals are trained to safely and effectively remove hazardous biological substances and prepare waste for proper disposal according to OSHA, EPA, and state and local health regulations. Equipped with the necessary safety equipment and cleaning products, our trained certified professionals, help turn unsafe environments into clean, safe homes and businesses.

Hoarding

Hoarders typically collect excessive amount of items. As these items pile up in a home it can create a serious safety hazard. Hoarder homes become a breeding ground for pests and possibly unsafe pathogens. SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow has the necessary tools to safely complete the job.

Sewage Backup

Sewage backups and black water intrusions are more than nasty and smelly. These damages also introduce harmful microorganisms into a structure. Trained Professionals remove the sewage, contaminants, and moisture disinfecting as they clean to ensure the structure is cleaned, disinfected, and deodorized.

Why does my business need an ERP?

11/21/2018 (Permalink)

Contact your local Sales & Marketing Representative at SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow and ask them to schedule an ERP for your business today!

An Emergency Ready Profile® also referred to as an ERP, is a no cost service offered by SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow to all business owners in the Sothern Rockingham County of New Hampshire. It contains critical information needed in the event of an emergency, to help you from becoming part of the 50% of business that do not reopen after a disaster.

Preparation is key for making it through any size business interruption whether it is a small water leak, large fire, or a burst pipe that flooded your business over the long holiday weekend. No one ever plans on these events and they usually happen at the most inopportune times. However, planning ahead for such disasters can save you a lot of time if you ever find yourself knee deep in waste water. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize any “down time” to your business.

Emergency Ready Profile Highlights:

• No cost assessment of your facility.
• Concise document (also available digitally on an app), that contains all of the critical information needed in the event of an emergency.
• Establishes your local SERVPRO® as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider.
• Identifies the chain of command authorizing work to begin.
• Provides detailed information such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas, and contact information. It is so detailed it contains information for our crews so they know where to park, what door to enter, and what elevators to take if needed.

SERVPRO® is a leader in water and fire damage response and we want to help you quickly get your business back in working order. Now is the time to ask yourself, “Are you ready for whatever happens?”

Preparing your home and business for winter

11/21/2018 (Permalink)

We all know that winter means all Mother Nature has to unleash is on the horizon. Colder temperatures can bring frozen pipes, puffbacks, ice dams, and the flu. There are however many things you can do to help prepare your home and/or business for all winter throws at us.

Preparing your home:

• Keep cabinet doors open during cold spells so warm air can circulate around pipes.
• Keep a slow trickle of water flowing through faucets especially if they run through unheated or uninsulated areas of your home.
• Ensure gutter are clean and secure. Leaves and debris can accumulate in gutters which could lead to roof problems and water damage.
• Proper maintenance of your furnace can help reduce the risk of puffbacks.

Preparing your business:

• Inspect your business property for downed tree limbs and branches. Heavy wind , rain, ice, or snow can cause branches to fall which could cause damage to the property and potentially cause personal injuries.
• Check walkways and parking lots for proper drainage to alleviate flood hazard potential.
• Inspect all handrails, stairwells, and entryways to address and correct potentially slippery or hazardous areas. Install mats or non-slip surfaces and post caution signs where water could be present.
• Contact your local Sales & Marketing Representative at SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow, and ask about starting and Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) for your business. Click here to learn more about the ERP. 

Are You Ready for Whatever Happens?

9/28/2018 (Permalink)

At Ready.gov/business, companies can find vital information on how to begin preparing their organization and addressing their unique needs during an e

• Sign up for local alerts and warnings, download apps and/ or check access for wireless emergency alerts. 
• Develop and test emergency communication plans. 
• Assemble or update emergency supplies. 
• Learn about local hazards and conduct a drill to practice emergency response actions. 
• Participate in a preparedness discussion, training or class. 
• Collect and safeguard critical documents. 
• Plan with neighbors to help each other and share resources. 
• Document property and obtain appropriate insurance for relevant hazards. 
• Make property improvements to reduce potential injury and property damage. 

Emergencies can happen anytime to anyone. Take action now to protect yourself and your property

Being In The Know Makes All the Difference

9/28/2018 (Permalink)

A thunderstorm is a rain shower during which you hear thunder. Since thunder comes from lightning, all thunderstorms have lightning.

SERVPRO® Shares a Thunderstorm Watch vs. Warning A thunderstorm is a rain shower during which you hear thunder. Since thunder comes from lightning, all thunderstorms have lightning. A thunderstorm is classified as "severe" when it contains one or more of the following:

• Hail (one inch or greater)
• winds in excess of 58 mph
• Structural wind damage
• Tornado

Make Sure Your Business is Ready At All Times!

9/17/2018 (Permalink)

We’re a leader in giving control back to homeowners, property managers, and even entire communities after the ravaging effects of water or fire.

When fire or water damage puts the things that matter most on the line, you need the very best help on the line as well. That’s why knowing the easiest ways to contact SERVPRO^® of Lawrence is so important. Just go to our website on your mobile phone or call 978-688-2242 to get the team that’s faster to any size disaster. We’re a leader in giving control back to homeowners, property managers, and even entire communities after the ravaging effects of water or fire. So whether you’re responsible for 1,000 square feet or 100,000 – be ready for the worst with the very best.

Here are 8 reasons why your company should get an Emergency Ready Profile^® today on every one of your buildings.

• A no-cost assessment of your facility.
• A concise Profile document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency.
• A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster.
• Establishes your local SERVPRO® Franchise Professional as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider.
• Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin.
• Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas, and priority contact information.

SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow is part of a Franchise System that has more than 50 years of leadership in cleanup and restoration. Our track record of results has earned us the trust of the insurance industry, countless homeowners, and in one unforgettable instance, even the Pentagon. We are quietly taking to the streets, every hour of every day, proving that whenever there is a house full of water or an office full of smoke, there is also a van full of clean.

Are You Prepared in Your Community?

8/28/2018 (Permalink)

This year for National Preparedness Month (the month of September), join your community in preparing for emergencies and disasters of all types, and leading efforts to encourage the community as a whole to become more prepared. Disasters can happen and not only devastate individuals and neighborhoods, but entire communities, including businesses of all sizes.

As a business in your community, having a continuity plan can help protect your company, its employees and its infrastructure, and maximizes your chances of recovery after an emergency or disaster. You can do this by taking three simple steps:

• Plan to stay in business
• Encourage your employees to become ready
• Protect your investment

We must work together as a team to ensure that our families, businesses, places of worship and neighborhoods are ready. At Ready.gov/business, companies can find vital information on how to begin preparing their organization and addressing their unique needs during an emergency. You can also contact your SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow Professional to find out more on how to be ready when disaster strikes with the Emergency READY Program^®.

“Ready for whatever happens.”

8/28/2018 (Permalink)

National Preparedness Month is the perfect opportunity to share the benefits of having a readiness plan in place with your customers, business and family.

The SERVPRO^® Emergency READY Profile® (ERP) will help ensure you and your business are “Ready for whatever happens.”

In the event of an emergency, the SERVPRO^® Emergency READY Profile^® can help minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action in place for your facility. The ERP is a comprehensive document containing critical information about your business, including emergency contact information, shut-off valve locations and priority areas. The ERP is also accessible online using your computer or tablet; download SERVPRO’s free Ready Plan app to access this information at any time using your smartphone or tablet.

The ERP establishes SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider, giving you access to over 50 years experience and a System more than 1,700 Franchises strong. Knowing what to do and who to call in advance is key to quick response and timely mitigation. Having a plan in place may help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive and get you back in the building following a disaster.

The best time to plan for such events is not when the event happens, but well before it happens. No one ever plans on a disaster, but now, you can plan for it.

The ERP is a no-cost assessment; all it requires is a little time, making it a great value that could save a lot of time in the future. Call your local SERVPRO^® Franchise Professional to establish your Emergency READY Profile^®.

A Moment to Remember

8/28/2018 (Permalink)

In honor and memory of those who died on September 11, 2001, as well as the survivors and First Responders, National Day of Service and Rememberance was established in 2009 as a day of reflection. Led by the Corporation for National and Communtiy Service, this is a day to come together as Americans did following the events of 9/11 to help neighbors in need, and to honor veterans and First Responders in your community.

On this day and everyday, SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow salutes those heroes who arrive in the greatest times of need and stand strong in the face of disaster. These heroes are the First Responders who keep our communities safe in trying times.

Give back and make a difference in your community this year. To find a volunteer opportunity near you, or to register your National Day of Service and Rememberance event, visit nationalservice.gov/911day.

Test Your Smoke Alarms Monthly

8/28/2018 (Permalink)

Smoke alarms save lives when properly installed and maintained, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

In homes, smoke alarms should be in every bedroom and on every level, including the basement. In office and commercial environments, check your state requirements or contact your local Fire Marshall to help ensure all codes are met.

Test smoke alarms monthly using the test button. Smoke alarms with non-replaceable batteries need the entire smoke alarm unit replaced every ten years. Other alarms need batteries replaced every year, and the unit replaced every ten years. If the alarm chirps signaling low battery, take the proper steps to replace the unit or the batteries immediately. Never disable or remove the battery from an alarm. Almost half of fires where smoke alarms were present but did not activate had missing or disconnected batteries (NFPA).

In larger commercial facilities, hard wired or wireless smoke alarms offer benefits such as not needing to be tested as often and activating throughout the entire building if smoke is detected in just one area (NFPA).

If you need help installing, testing or changing batteries in your smoke alarms, contact your local fire department, an electrician or the American Red Cross.

Be sure your home or workplace has a fire emergency plan in place and conduct regular fire drills. For more information on emergency preparedness, contact SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow at 603-893-9700.

Meet Our Crew - Izzy

8/21/2018 (Permalink)

Meet Izzy. He will always have a smile for you!

Isamel "Izzy" Torres is a Crew Chief and has completed our rigorous SERVPRO Employee Certification Training Program along with the IICRC Water and Fire Remediation. This program teaches advanced cleaning and restoration techniques and how to properly use our state-of-the-art equipment. This training program also focuses on listening skills and customer service. Izzy has over 4 years of restoration experience with SERVPRO. When not working, Izzy enjoys spending time with his family and playing handball in his local community.

SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow specializes in disaster restoration, cleanup and repair services, 
helping to remediate damage, making it “Like it never even happened.” for both commercial and 
residential customers. When fire, water, or mold disrupt your life, Izzy and his crew are there to help make the process as stress free as possible for you and your family.

Meet Our Crew - Kyle White

8/21/2018 (Permalink)

Meet Kyle. Always eager to learn and make it "Like it never even happened."

Kyle White joins our team as a Production Technician and has completed our rigorous SERVPRO Employee Certification Training Program. This program teaches advanced cleaning and restoration techniques and how to properly use our state-of-the-art equipment. This training program also focuses on listening skills and customer service. Kyle has been with us for a year and has been working diligently to learn and grow within our company.

SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow specializes in disaster restoration, cleanup and repair services, 
helping to remediate damage, making it “Like it never even happened.” for both commercial and 
residential customers. When fire, water, or mold disrupt your life, Kyle and his team are there to help make the process as stress free as possible for you and your family. For more information on SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow, please contact 
603-893-9700 or office@SERVPROoflawrence.com.  

SERVPRO® of Lawrence Shares a Thunderstorm Watch vs. Warning

8/21/2018 (Permalink)

A thunderstorm is a rain shower during which you hear thunder. Since thunder comes from lightning, all thunderstorms have lightning.

A thunderstorm is a rain shower during which you hear thunder. Since thunder comes from lightning, all thunderstorms have lightning. A thunderstorm is classified as "severe" when it contains one or more of the following:

• Hail (one inch or greater)
• winds in excess of 58 mph
• Structural wind damage
• Tornado

Mold in Sandown Causes Concern

7/24/2018 (Permalink)

This Sandown, NH family discovered extensive microbial growth in their home, thanks to a leaking pipe that went undetected for months.

This Sandown, NH family discovered extensive microbial growth in their home, thanks to a leaking pipe that went undetected for months. Believe it or not, mold problems like this can be mitigated with the right expertise and equipment to prevent further structural or health problems. SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow has trained technicians, crew chiefs, and production managers that were able to test and remove the mold growth, and then restore the space to preloss conditions. The family was very grateful that we were able to recover their home and protect them from any potential health effects. 

The Mold Remediation Process

Every mold infestation is different from the next, from the extent and type of growth, to the variety of materials affected. Each scenario requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same. When you discover mold, call us at 603-893-9700 and we will go through our standard mold remediation process to help you and your family: 

• Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment
• Mold Containment
• Air Filtration
• Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials
• Cleaning Contents and Belongings
• Restoration

Life can be unpredictable, but knowing who to call is half the battle. As always, contact SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow at 603-893-9700 to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

Looking for: SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow Production Technician

7/2/2018 (Permalink)

Are you highly dependable and super-excited about routinely exceeding expectations? Then you may be our perfect hero!

Our Franchise is seeking someone who is comfortable working hard in challenging situations, enjoys meeting new people, has excellent communication skills, and is a serious multi-tasker. If you are self-motivated and have superb interpersonal skills, then you’ll thrive in this work environment. Are you highly dependable and super-excited about routinely exceeding expectations? Then you may be our perfect hero! As a valued SERVPRO® Franchise employee, you will receive a competitive pay rate, with opportunity to learn and grow. Primary Responsibilities Inventory and load the work vehicle with equipment, products, and supplies needed for each project.Maintain a clean and organized vehicle and clean equipment appearance.Prepare rooms/areas for work activities. Set up staging area and equipment for each project.Leave jobsite with a clean and orderly appearance.Perform production processes following SERVPRO® production guidelines per work order per crew chief directions.Ensure clear two-way communication with crew chief and other technicians (especially regarding customer needs and concerns).Perform end-of-day/end-of-job cleanup and breakdown. Leave jobsite with a clean and orderly appearance.Position Requirements Effective oral communicationBasic math skillsExperience in cleaning/restoration preferredHigh school diploma/GEDIICRC certifications preferredAbility to lift a minimum of 50 pounds regularly, occasionally up to 100 pounds with assistanceAbility to climb ladders, work at ceiling heights, work in tight spaces (e.g., crawls spaces, attics)Ability to sit/stand/walk for prolonged periods of timeAbility to repetitively push/pull/lift/carry objectsAbility to work with/around cleaning products/chemicalsAbility to travel locally and out of state when necessaryAbility to successfully complete a background check subject to applicable law Pay Rate: Negotiable based on experience, with possibility of overtime pay and increases based on merit. Please visit our website, www.SERVPROsalemplaistow.com, for additional information.  Job Type: Full-time Required license or certification: Drivers License
SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow is an EOE M/F/D/V employer

A Network of Resources to Help Your Water Damaged Home

6/29/2018 (Permalink)

We at SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow have a network of other franchises to pull in the equipment, resources and man power needed to help the large losses.

When water damage happens, knowing who to call is the first step in relieving some of the stress. But when a flooding occurs? It is even better to know that we at SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow have a network of other franchises to pull in the equipment, resources and man power needed to help the large losses. Here are 5 examples of how we were able to support each other across the country.

• The Siberian Express in 2015 created record breaking sub-zero temperatures and broken pipes from Florida to Maine. 257 crews helped during these ice dams, with even SERVPRO of Lawrence working with teams from Alabama and Tennessee to help our homeowners.
• In April of 2016, Houston was engulfed in 2-4 inches of rain per hour. Eighty-one crews produced over 360 jobs in this historic event that left Harris County with 18 inches of rain.
• Over 830 jobs were created in 2016 during the Louisiana Flooding. Twenty + inches of rain caused rivers and other waterways to rise and flood Southern Louisiana. At least 185 crews from across the country helped get the community back in their pre storm condition.
• Hurricane Matthew in caused flooding the East Coast from Florida to North Carolina. One hundred sixty-nine crews mitigated over $7.5 million worth of damage to business owners and homeowners alike.
• Lastly, in East Tennessee, one of the largest wildfires in history struck the Great Smokey Mountains. Over 17,000 acres burned, and twelve crews came to the rescue to help the seventy families and businesses get the fire damage and soot under control.

SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow and these other teams can make any disaster “Like it never even happened.” We are there, no matter how big or small, call us 24/7/365 at 978-688-2242.

Limiting the Damage to Your Salem, NH Home after a Fire

6/19/2018 (Permalink)

We provide timely response with mitigation services ranging from fire, smoke and soot removal to contents claims inventory and document restoration.

The first 48 hours after fire damage can make the difference between restoring versus replacing your property and personal belongings. SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow can help prevent fire damage from creating long-term problems. We provide timely response with mitigation services ranging from fire, smoke and soot removal to contents claims inventory and document restoration. We will work neatly and efficiently to help you regain control of your property when a damaging event has taken over. They will use state-of-the-art restoration techniques to ensure your property is taken care of right the first time and are restored to preloss condition when possible.

• Limit movement to prevent further damage
• Place clean towels or old linens on carpeted traffic areas to prevent more soiling
• If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator and prop doors open
• Clean and protect chrome on kitchen and bathroom faucets and appliances with light coating of petroleum jelly
• Don’t attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without first contacting SERVPRO^®
• Don’t attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture without first consulting SERVPRO^®
• Don’t attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire or water damage without consulting a repair service.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpet
• Do not send clothing to a dry cleaner since improper cleaning may set smoke odor.

So before you risk doing further damage by attempting to clean up the damage yourself, call the fire damage cleanup and restoration professionals at (603) 893-9700. SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow has worked for over 40 years to help make fire damage “Like it never even happened.”

Tips to Follow if You Travel During Hurricane Season

6/4/2018 (Permalink)

You can see a storm coming by the change in color of the sky (often greenish), large hail, low-flying clouds and a roar like a freight train.

June is the start of Hurricane Season. Below are some tips to follow whether you own a home, RV, boat, car or all of them! You can see a storm coming by the change in color of the sky (often greenish), large hail, low-flying clouds and a roar like a freight train.

• It is best to have a plan in place regarding where you are going to go when a hurricane hits. While they may be intriguing to watch, the best place is NOT outside. Your basement or under a set of stairs are great places to wait out the storm. If this is not available, the bottom floor of any building will work.
• Keep your car indoors if possible. Tape up the windows and door with tarps and keep away from any objects that could damage the car if they were to fall on top of it.
• During an emergency, gas stations will often be closed, so always make sure you have at least half a tank of gas to get away instantly
• Have enough supplies on hand to wait out 72 hours, just in case help cannot arrive right away. These supplies can also be stored in the trunk (items like a first aid kit, bottled water, non-perishable foods, and medication can stay there at all times.)
• Make sure your car is in proper shape. Have a full tank of gas, wiper blades and tires are ready to go.
• Make sure your cell phone is charged and keep your charger with you.
• Avoid driving in deep waters
• For your boat, remove non-secure items, electronics, excess gear, valuable, and important documents.
• Make sure all openings are clear of debris
• Double all lines that are securing your boat to its securing space
• With your RV, do not drive it during the storm as it is more vulnerable to higher/stronger winds
• Make sure you have a full tank of gas, but empty holding tanks, turn off propane cylinders and cover the regulator.
• Make sure all documents are in a waterproof bag and with you at all times

Life can be unpredictable, but having plans in place help you with whatever may come. For more information, please check out these hurricane tips. As always, once the storm passes, contact your SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

What Our Tools Do for Behind the Scenes

5/10/2018 (Permalink)

The meters can determine if materials are wet below the surface, potentially causing more damage that you are unaware of.

You have been away for two weeks on vacation, you arrive home at 9pm on a Sunday night and what do you want do? Probably get home, relax, and call it a night. But when you walk in and a pipe has burst while you are gone? That changes everything.

In order to save money, people can sometimes use their own tools to stop and dry up water damage. But, unfortunately, sometimes the unseen water in your home or office can cause the most problems. Hidden behind walls, cabinets or under flooring can be pooled water or moisture that will cause greater health risks to your home and family later on. Here at SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow, we have the tools to see that hidden damage and help stop potential problems. Some of those tools are that can be used to help you are:

Moisture Sensors – these will detect moisture in carpet, walls, and baseboards.

• Moisture Meters – these determine the level of moisture in materials. These can either penetrate or not the materials, depending on what they are to help monitor the progress of drying throughout the job.
• Thermohygrometers – these devices help monitor the temperature and relative humidity in the air. These two are a large part in the drying process and help SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow team members determine how to adjust the process along the way.
• Infrared Cameras – this helps identify the areas that have hidden moisture and document its location. These cameras identify temperature differences in materials from where the areas are cooling (water has been evaporating) and where it is still affected by the moisture.

 Our goal is helping homeowners and business owners alike return their home to “Like it never even happened.” When in doubt, call SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow to walk you through each step of restoring your home to preloss conditions..

Small Business Week

4/13/2018 (Permalink)

From left to right: Raeann Pellerin, Gregg White, Christina Robertson, Gary Kurgan, Steven Fumero, Mitch Cardona, Eric White, Brian White, and Nicole

From April 29 to May 5, 2018, America will celebrate Small Business Week, an annual event sponsored by the U.S. Small Business Association (SBA). According to Gregg White, owner of SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow, Small Business Week is an opportunity for national and community leaders to recognize the critical contributions of America’s entrepreneurs and small business owners to the country’s economy. White emphasizes there is nothing “small” about small business when it comes to its importance to the nation’s economic health. According to statistics from the SBA, 28 million small businesses in America account for 54 percent of all U.S. sales; of those 28 million businesses, the 600,000 U.S. franchised small businesses, like SERVPRO, account for 40 percent of all retail sales and provide jobs for some eight million people. As these local business people work to grow their businesses, they help create 21st century jobs, drive innovation, and increase America’s global competitiveness. 

For entrepreneurs like White, becoming a franchise owner is one path to small business ownership. “Entrepreneurship is at the heart of a successful small business—the drive to own and grow a business through your own efforts,” said Sue Steen, SERVPRO Industries, Inc., chief executive officer. “Franchise organizations like SERVPRO give entrepreneurs a framework for their ambitions, access to state-of-the-art tools and processes, and a road map for sound financial management and growth.” 

Some franchised small businesses offer entrepreneurs an opportunity to own and run their own small business while providing a service to the community they live and work in. With SERVPRO, for example, franchise ownership helps entrepreneurs combine their hometown knowledge and the emotional investment they have with their community with access to the latest disaster remediation technology and products. This combination creates a community asset that could prove invaluable to home and business owners who are struck by the unexpected. "I’m proud to be a small business owner in my community,” says White. “But, as a SERVPRO small business owner, I know that the unexpected can happen – a flood, a fire, an explosion, a storm, a mudslide, whatever the event might be – big or small. When the unexpected does happen, I’m also proud to know that my staff and I are ready to respond immediately and effectively to limit the damage to property and disruption to lives in my community. Having both an emotional and financial stake in the community is what distinguishes small businesses with local owners from other businesses. And that’s what makes small businesses such an important thread in the fabric of this country.” 

SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow specializes in disaster restoration, cleanup and repair services, 
helping to remediate damage, making it “Like it never even happened,” for both commercial and 
residential customers. For more information on SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow, please contact 
603-893-9700 or office@SERVPROoflawrence.com.  

About SERVPRO  
Founded in 1967, the SERVPRO Franchise System is a leader and provider of fire and water cleanup and restoration services and mold mitigation and remediation. SERVPRO’s professional services network of more than 1,700 individually owned and operated Franchises responds to property damage emergencies ranging from small individual disasters to multi-million dollar largeloss events. Providing coverage in the United States and Canada, the SERVPRO® System has established relationships with major insurance companies and commercial clients, as well as individual homeowners.

About Our Mold Remediation Services

4/9/2018 (Permalink)

When mold is disturbed, the mold can release microscopic mold spores which become airborne and can circulate inside your home or business.

This Salem business discovered extensive mold growth in their place of work, thanks to leaking pipe that went undetected. Businesses are always at risk for mold infestations, especially if they are leasing older buildings that may need repairs. 

SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow worked around the clock to remediate the problem, so that business could be restored as quickly and seamlessly as possible. We know that commercial mold infestations can cost a business thousands of dollars in productivity; it is always our goal to get you back up and running right away. 

If You See Visible Mold 

If you see visible mold, do not disturb it. You can inadvertently spread the mold infestation throughout your home or business. When mold is disturbed, the mold can release microscopic mold spores which become airborne and can circulate inside your home or business.

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow for mold remediation services.

What Not to Do:

• Don’t touch or disturb the mold.
• Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.
• Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself.
• Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.

SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow specializes in mold cleanup and restoration, in fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business.  Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 603-893-9700

Preparing Your Business for the Unexpected

3/26/2018 (Permalink)

When it comes to your business, it is your pride and joy. You pray that a disaster never strikes, ruining all of your hard work.

When it comes to your business, it is your pride and joy. You pray that a disaster never strikes, ruining all of your hard work.

Questions that run through your mind when disaster strikes, but is helpful to think of before that:

• Do you have insurance

• Do you have an emergency plan in place? Does your staff know about it?

• Can you access your business records if they were destroyed?

“Small business owners invest a tremendous amount of time, money and resources to make their ventures successful, yet, many owners fail to properly plan and prepare for disaster situations." An estimated 50% of business do not reopen after a disaster has happened.

Creating a business plan for disaster will help protect employees, shorten the amount of time you may have to be out of work, and possibly lessen the financial impact it will have on you.

1. Identify critical business systems – how long can they be down and what is needed to keep everything functioning.
2. Create an emergency communication plan with all those who have a stake in your business.
3. Build a supply kit that will keep your business and employees safe should you be at work when disaster strikes
4. Work with SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow to build an Emergency Ready Profile. This will provide the information for all emergency personnel that need to be contacted when disaster strikes and when our Team arrives on site, it gives the knowledge of your building before we even step in the door. This provides efficient and faster service for you!

For more information on how to help prepare your business for disaster, please contact us at 978-688-2242 or SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow.

Mold Remediation: Why We Use Containment

3/19/2018 (Permalink)

It should be placed as close to the source of invasion as possible while still permitting us to gain access and accomplish our work.

This information was taken fromRestoration and Remediation, an online magazine. It is beneficial to share information with you regarding mold and why we use containment in the remediation process.

"The great mold warriors we meet and work with on a daily basis all have a common advantage- like the greatest generals in history, they know their enemy. More specifically they know and understand that the greatest strength of their enemy is its invisibility.

Before your own battle begins, you have to understand that you must strategically approach the enemy by devising systems to discover, collect, and contain it which will work despite your inability to visualize its presence. 

Erecting containment and generating and directing the air flow within that containment will enable us to win the air war, by controlling the enemy's movement. 

Where is the most strategic location of this containment?  It should be placed as close to the source of invasion as possible while still permitting us to gain access and accomplish our work.

Taken to its extreme, if it allows you to do what you need, it can be as small as a glove bag over a pipe, such as is used by our asbestos warrior brethren.

One of the most common flaws in mold remediation projects is a containment structure that is larger than it needs to be:  Larger containments require more equipment for managing airflow, have more possible leak points, and require more time and effort to decontaminate prior to de-mobilization. While erecting a containment, one must carefully balance the trade-offs between size and work access.

To do so, one can rely on the knowledge of experienced mold warriors and follow the established principles."

When mold affects your home, call SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow to help guide you through the process. From bringing in an Industrial Hygienist, to cleaning, to disinfecting, we will be here.

Duct Cleaning to Clean Your Air

2/5/2018 (Permalink)

Cleaning ducts and vents generally costs between $263 and $472, but as with many services, the bigger and dirtier the project, the more you'll need to pay. When a professional comes to assess the needs of your system, they will consider:

• The size of your ductwork
• The degree to which it is contaminated
• The ease with which they can reach various parts of the system

The average cost of keeping your residential ductwork orderly is going to vary greatly from that of a commercial building. This is because commercial air ducts are often larger and more extensive. Residential cleanings can cost an average of about $20-$30 per vent. For commercial buildings, service providers must do an estimate of your space before they can provide an accurate quote. Before factoring in the materials and the number A/C and furnace units, you can expect a commercial project to cost at least $35-$50 per hour.

The amount of debris or mold present in your system could certainly ratchet up the overall price. The cost of mildew removal is around $0.07-0.08 per square foot, on top of your initial cost, according to Blue Book. Removing these elements involves added time, special equipment and even special chemicals. In fact, you may be referred to a specialist if mildew and mold is too severe.

Most residential air duct systems are installed in a predictable fashion or are easy to figure out. However, you can expect a higher quote if your system has been custom-designed, involves extra components and has features which are difficult to access. This is due to the added work and time which will have to be put into the project.

Commercial systems are often customized to fit the building they serve. They are almost guaranteed to feature added components, and will need to be assessed on a case-by-case basis. The more difficult the construction is to maneuver, the more you can expect to pay.

So when considering who to call for your duct cleaning, consider SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow to meet your needs. We work to make it "Like it never even happened."

Preparation is Key

1/26/2018 (Permalink)

Preparation is the key to making it through any size disaster, whether it is a small water leak, a large fire or an area flood.

In the event of an emergency, the Emergency READY Profile^® or ERP can help minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action in place for your facility. Working with SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow on an ERP will provide you with a comprehensive document containing critical information about your business, including emergency contact information, shut-off valve locations and priority areas.

The ERP also establishes your local SERVPRO^® Franchise Professional as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider, giving you access to over 40 years of experience and a System over 1,600 Franchises strong. The ERP is a no-cost assessment; all it requires is a little time, making it a great value that could save you time and money in the future.

Preparation is the key to making it through any size disaster, whether it is a small water leak, a large fire or an area flood. Having a plan in place may help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive and get you back in the building following a disaster.

Don't wait until disaster strikes. Call SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow at 603-893-9700 or visit our website to establish your Emergency READY Profile^®, and be "Ready for whatever happens."

When Your Salem Business is in Danger

1/25/2018 (Permalink)

If your property suffers a fire or water damage, SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow will be ready to help you make it "Like it never even happened."

When disaster threatens a community, it is often too late to take the necessary steps to prepare homes, businesses and family members for the situation. Whether it's a blizzard, flood, hurricane or wildfire, disasters of all types often give little to no warning before they strike. The time to prepare for a storm is not as it approaches-the time to prepare is now.

No matter what part of the country you call home, we want to ensure you are prepared for any type of disaster. Whether you have damage caused by a hurricane, tornado, flash flood, or any other reason, SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow have the resources, experience and training to help get your doors reopened for business as soon as possible.

If your property suffers a fire or water damage, SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow will be ready to help you make it "Like it never even happened."

We recommend always having an emergency kit on hand whether it is for your home or business. These can even be kept in your car. Here are some items to help you build your own emergency kit

• Water (one gallon per person per day)
• Food (non-perishable 3-day supply)
• Manual can opener
• Battery operated radio, preferably a NOAA Weather Radio
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• First aid kit
• Whistle to signal for help
• Clothing
• Dust masks or bandanas
• Plastic sheeting, garbage bags and duct tape
• Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
• Hygiene items
• Important documents; copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account information
• Cash
• Fire extinguisher
• Matches in a waterproof container

As always, to learn more about how SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow can help your business survive a disaster, please call us 603-893-9700.

Fire Safety Tips for the Plaistow Area

1/25/2018 (Permalink)

While not popular on in Salem or Plaistow area, a wildfire can occur anywhere-in fact, in 2014, wildfire occurrences were recorded in all 50 states. What is a wildfire? It is an unplanned, unwanted fire burning in a natural area, such as a forest, grassland, or prairie. A wildfire can destroy homes, businesses, agriculture, and damage natural resources while threatening the safety of the public and the firefighters who protect our forests and communities.  

Wildfires or just fires in general, can occur at any time throughout the year, but the potential is always higher during periods with little or no rainfall, which make brush, grass, and trees dry and burn more easily. High winds can also contribute to spreading the fire.

If you live or work in an area prone to wildfires, consider the following safety tips to help prevent the spread of wildfire.

Fire Safety Tips

• Clear leaves and other debris from gutters, eaves, porches and decks. Remove dead vegetation from under your deck and within 10 feet of the house.  This prevents embers from igniting your home.
• Remove anything stored underneath decks or porches. Screen or box-in areas below patios and decks with wire mesh to prevent debris from accumulating.
• Ensure flammable materials (firewood stacks, propane tanks, and dry vegetation) are more than 30 feet from your home or business's foundation and outbuildings.
• Wildfire can spread to tree tops. If you have trees on your property, prune so the lowest branches are 6 to 10 feet from the ground.
• Keep your lawn hydrated and maintained. If it is brown, cut it down to reduce fire intensity. Dry grass and shrubs are fuel for wildfire.

If your home or business ever suffers fire damage, in anyway, please let us help you make it "Like it never even happened." SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow is here to help and can be reached at 603-893-9700.

Staying Safe in the Storm

1/16/2018 (Permalink)

Severe weather can be dangerous for automobile travel. Motorists should know the safety rules for dealing with winter road emergencies.

There is more snow coming our way! Please follow these helpful tips to stay safe:

• If you have to travel, please be careful when out and about as the roads may be slippery.
• Leave the plows extra room to help take care of our roads. 
• Keep your gas tank at least 1/2 full to avoid freezing lines
• Accelerate slowly to maintain traction on the roads
• Take your time slowing down as sudden braking can cause slipping on ice.
• AAA shares this tip: Don’t power up hills. Applying extra gas on snow-covered roads just starts your wheels spinning. Try to get a little inertia going before you reach the hill and let that inertia carry you to the top. As you reach the crest of the hill, reduce your speed and proceed down hill as slowly as possible.

And as always, thank you to all of our emergency responders and utility workers who have to respond.

Please stay safe if you have to travel and as always, if you can, stay home. 

For more on the weather: http://ow.ly/pwdf30hO0DR

Bob Vila and How to Avoid Ice Dams

1/15/2018 (Permalink)

A snow and ice shield consists of a bituminous membrane that seals the roof, forming a continuous barrier to water.

Bob Vila talks about how to avoid ice dams in this article. 

"What Are Ice Dams?
Many homeowners in the northern United States are all too familiar with ice dams. These are thick accumulations of ice that form over the eaves of a house. Water then collects behind the dam and gradually works its way beneath roof shingles through a cycle of freezing and thawing. The result can be leakage into the living areas of the home, which in turn can produce sagging plaster, stains, and other damage.

Low-pitched roofs are the most likely to be affected, but the cause is a warm roof. Heat escapes the living areas of the home and rises, warming the blanket of snow on the roof. As the snow melts, it flows down the slope of the roof only to refreeze on top of the unheated roof overhang. The ice builds up, the thawing and freezing cycle continues, and the flow begins.

Ice dams are preventable. If new roofing is being added at your home, make sure that proper precautions are being taken. The keys are these:

1) Ensure adequate ventilation.
The roof needs to be vented both at the eaves (usually in the soffits) and at the peak, either in the roof itself or via vents in the end walls of the house. An air space above the insulation in the ceiling or attic then allows cold air to move freely, keeping the roof cold and preventing the snow cover from melting. When a roof is being constructed, inexpensive Styrofoam baffles may be installed to ensure that there is a passageway for cold air from the eaves to the peak.

2) Seal off the house.
Proper insulation of the attic rafters or ceiling joists is another part of the solution. So is a tight vapor barrier to prevent moisture from passing from the living areas into and through the insulation.

3) Install a snow and ice shield.
There are a number of products on the market that, when installed immediately on top of the subroof and beneath the shingles covering the overhang of the roof, will prevent water from working its way into the home. A snow and ice shield consists of a bituminous membrane that seals the roof, forming a continuous barrier to water."

If you do have an ice dam that leaks into your home, have your roof cleared and then call SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow, (603) -893-9700, to schedule an inspection. We will help remove the problem inside your home and make it "Like it never even happened."

When a Fire Strikes, SERVPRO is Here to Help!

1/12/2018 (Permalink)

Emergency planning and training directly influence the outcome of an emergency situation.

Worrying about the cleanup and restoration can be stressful, and many home and business owners are left with a feeling of helplessness and uncertainty. SERVPRO's Franchise Professionals know restoring peace of mind is just as important as restoring property.

SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow wants to be there in your time of need, helping you and your customers piece their lives back together.

Our goal is simple:

In an emergency situation, like a building fire, every second counts. How quickly you respond could depend on how prepared you are before the emergency. Emergency planning and training directly influence the outcome of an emergency situation. Facilities with well-prepared employees and well-developed plans are likely to incur less structural damage and fewer or less severe employee injuries.

When preparing a fire evacuation plan, it is important to designate multiple evacuation routes and exits. This ensures more than one way to exit the building, should an exit be blocked by fire. When choosing emergency exits, consider the following recommendations.

• Exits should be clearly marked and well  
• Exit routes should be wide enough to accommodate the number/volume of evacuating person
• Exit routes should remain unobstructed and clear of debris at all times.

If you  prepare  drawings  that  show  evacuation routes and exits, post  them  prominently  for  all employees  to  see. Once an  escape  plan  is created, it should  be  practiced  to help familiarize  staff  with  emergency  exit  routes. It is important to talk to your local fire department, as local codes may require more frequent drills  for various  facilities.

SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow can help with emergency planning by establishing an Emergency READY Profile, (ERP), for your facility. For more information about the ERP or emergency planning, contact

SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow 603-893-9700.

When a Storm Strikes Your Home...Who Are You Going to Call?

1/12/2018 (Permalink)

If a flood does strike your home, contact SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow. Even minor floods have the potential to cause major damage to your home.

Floods rank as one of the most common and widespread natural disasters in the United States. Whether you live near a coastline, along city streets, in the mountains, near a river or even in the desert, there is a potential for suffering from flood damage.

Just because you haven't experienced  a  flood  in  the past,  doesn’t  mean  you  won't  in  the future.  In fact, 20% of all claims paid by the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) were for policies in low-risk communities. On average, floods cost $3 billion in annual losses in the United States. Commercial flood claims average more than $75,000.

According to the American Red Cross (ARC), floods cause more damage in the U.S. every year than any other weather-related disaster.  The ARC offers the following flood safety tips.

• Stay away from floodwaters. If you come up on a flowing scream where water is above your ankles, stop, rum around and go another Six inches of swiftly moving water can  sweep you  off of your feet.
• If you approach  a flooded  road while driving, turn around and go another way. If you are caught on a flooded road  and waters are rising rapidly around  you,  get out of the car quickly and move to higher ground. Most cars can be swept away by less than two feet of moving water.
• Keep children out of the water. They are curious and often lack judgment about run ning water or contaminated water. Keep your pets out of the water too.

If a flood does strike your home or business, contact SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow. Even minor floods have the potential to cause major damage to a  structure when not treated quickly and properly, and the cleanup is often an overwhelming task. The SERVPRO® System is prepared to handle any sized disaster. The sooner work begins, the sooner order can be restored.

When fire and water take control of your life, SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow will help you take it back.

Preparing for a Water Emergency in Your Home

1/12/2018 (Permalink)

When your home or business is under water, every minute counts.

When it comes to life’s emergencies, it isn't a matter of if they will occur­ it's a matter of when they will occur.  Home and business owners can take steps to prepare for disasters, but you can never fully prevent them from happening.  An old pipe bursts. A storm blows in dozens of gallons of water. A washing machine malfunctions. Chances are your home or business will eventually suffer some sort of emergency; that is why it is important to prepare now, before disaster strikes.

SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow is trained to respond quickly, professionally and efficiently when managing your loss. When your home or business is under water, every minute counts. That's why SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Should a disaster strike, call SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow at 603-893-9700 to help make it "Like it never even happened."

Educating Yourself On the Mold Process

1/12/2018 (Permalink)

Antifungal and antimicrobial treatments will be used to eliminate mold colonies and help prevent new colonies from forming.

When there's some sort of water intrusion into your home that goes untreated, mold can quickly become a problem in your home. Mold can possibly cause health effects (ask your doctor for details) and can also cause significant damage to your property. Fortunately, SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow has the training, protective gear, and specialized equipment necessary to handle your mold problem. Although every mold damage scenario is different requiring a unique solution, the general mold remediation process stays the same. The following steps illustrate a "typical" mold removal process.

Call 603-893-9700 for help with your mold remediation needs.

The mold cleanup and restoration process begins when you call SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow. A representative will ask a series of questions to help determine the necessary equipment, resources, and personnel needed.

Inspection and Damage Assessment

Your property will be carefully inspected for signs of mold using technology designed to detect mold and hidden water sources. Mold feeds on cellulose and water and can be hidden from plain view.

Mold Containment

Various containment procedures will be placed to prevent the spread of mold and isolate the contaminated area with physical barriers and negative air pressure to keep the mold spores from spreading during the cleanup process.

Air Filtration

Specialized filtration equipment captures microscopic    mold spores out of the air. SERVPRO® technicians utilize powerful air scrubbers and HEPA vacuums to prevent the spread of these mold spores while the mold remediation is in progress.

Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials The mold remediation process depends on the amount of mold growth and the types of surfaces on which the mold appears. Antifungal and antimicrobial treatments will be used to eliminate mold colonies and help prevent new colonies from forming. Removing and disposing of mold-infested porous materials, like drywall and flooring, may be necessary to remediate heavy mold growth.

Cleaning Contents and Belongings SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals clean your furniture, decorative items, curtains, and other restorable items affected by mold. They use a variety of cleaning techniques to clean and sanitize your belongings.  They are also trained to remove odors and deodorization using fogging equipment.

Restoration

Depending on the level of mold damage, drywall, subfloors, and other building materials may be removed. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet; or it may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.

SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow understands mold and mold growth and have the training and equipment to remediate mold in your home or business.

Preventing Mold from Water Damage That is Unseen

1/12/2018 (Permalink)

The proper equipment makes a measurable difference in reducing the damage expense during a fire or water loss.

Even small water damages have the potential to cause serious structural and microbial growth damage if left untreated. 

The key to avoiding costly future restoration is to handle every water problem as a real threat to your property. SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow has the equipment, training and experience to find and dry unseen water before secondary damages like mold occur. The proper equipment makes a measurable difference in reducing the damage expense during a fire or water loss.

SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow will answer your call with fast action and a full arsenal of drying equipment. Here are a few of the tools used by your local SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals.

• Moisture Sensors are used to detect moisture in carpets, baseboards and Moisture Meters (pictured) are used to determine the actual moisture content of various materials. The moisture tester provides accurate readings, allowing SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals to monitor the drying process.
• Thermohygrometers measure temperature and relative humidity. When armed with this information, SERVPRO® of Lawrence can calculate and create an environment most conclusive to drying.
• When facing a contaminated water loss, it is not only important to dry the structure, but the structure must also be disinfected and often deodorized.
• Ultra-Low-Volume (ULV) Foggers will atomize liquid deodorizing agents, producing a fine mist that can easily penetrate the site where odor-causing residues may accumulate. This device can also be used to inject fungicides and disinfectants into wall cavities and other hard-to-reach
• Thermal Foggers (pictured) dispense solvent-based produces by creating a dense fog. The fog consists of tiny particles of deodorant solution that attach to and neutralize odor­ causing particles.

What is the bottom line? SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow (603-893-9700) has the training and equipment to help make it "Like it never even happened."

Is Your Business Ready for 2018?

1/2/2018 (Permalink)

Did you know up to 50 percent of businesses that suffer a disaster may never reopen?

Here at SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow, we want to make sure everyone is ready for the new year! Did you know up to 50 percent of businesses that suffer a disaster may never reopen? For those that do survive, the majority have an emergency readiness plan available before disaster strikes. Advantages to of the SERVPRO® of Lawrence Emergency READY Profile are:

·         A no cost assessment of your facility

·         A concise profile document containing only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency

·         A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster

·         Establishes us as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider.

·         Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin

·         Provides  facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information

Preparation is the key to making it through any size disaster, whether it is a small water leak, a large fire, or an area flood. Having a plan in place may help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive and get you back in the building following a disaster.

Don’t wait for a disaster to strike, call SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow today to schedule your ERP (603) 893-9700

Looking for A Job? SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow Can Help!

12/29/2017 (Permalink)

Our crews receive on the job training to continue learning the procedures and techniques to best help our customers

SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow Production Technician

Our Franchise is seeking someone who is comfortable working hard in challenging situations, enjoys meeting new people, has excellent communication skills, and is a serious multi-tasker. If you are self-motivated and have superb interpersonal skills, then you’ll thrive in this work environment. Are you highly dependable and super-excited about routinely exceeding expectations? Then you may be our perfect hero !

As a valued SERVPRO® Franchise employee, you will receive a competitive pay rate, with opportunity to learn and grow.

Primary Responsibilities

Inventory and load the work vehicle with equipment, products, and supplies needed for each project.
Maintain a clean and organized vehicle and clean equipment appearance.
Prepare rooms/areas for work activities. Set up staging area and equipment for each project.
Leave jobsite with a clean and orderly appearance.
Perform production processes following SERVPRO® production guidelines per work order per crew chief directions.
Ensure clear two-way communication with crew chief and other technicians (especially regarding customer needs and concerns).
Perform end-of-day/end-of-job cleanup and breakdown. Leave jobsite with a clean and orderly appearance.
Position Requirements

Effective oral communication
Basic math skills
Experience in cleaning/restoration preferred
High school diploma/GED
IICRC certifications preferred
Ability to lift a minimum of 50 pounds regularly, occasionally up to 100 pounds with assistance
Ability to climb ladders, work at ceiling heights, work in tight spaces (e.g., crawls spaces, attics)
Ability to sit/stand/walk for prolonged periods of time
Ability to repetitively push/pull/lift/carry objects
Ability to work with/around cleaning products/chemicals
Ability to travel locally and out of state when necessary
Ability to successfully complete a background check subject to applicable law

Please visit our website for additional information.

Required license or certification: Drivers License

Our Highly Trained Restoration Specialists can restore your Salem/Plaistow Home Or Business

12/18/2017 (Permalink)

Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration and we are an IICRC Certified Firm.

SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.

IICRC Certified Firms must

• Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.
• Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.
• Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.
• Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.
• Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.

The IICRC Develops The Standards For The Restoration Industry

The IICRC has been the driving force in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation. These IICRC standards take years to develop and require the coordination of experts in the field: manufacturers, industry organizations, insurance professionals, training schools, contractors, and public health professionals.

Every five years, the standards are reviewed and updated. The water damage restoration field changes rapidly with advancements in technology and science, and therefore the standards must evolve to keep pace.

About SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow

SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: from initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Meet Our Crew

Certifications

Does Your Salem/Plaistow Home Have A Mold Problem?

12/18/2017 (Permalink)

Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors.

Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:

• Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
• Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.

• Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.

• Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.

• Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.

• Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – (603) 893-9700

Kingston Business Fire Prevention

11/20/2017 (Permalink)

This is a picture of a fire damaged restaurant. A smoke detector can save your business from disaster.

A business fire can be very stressful event for any property owner. Damage to personal belongings, contents of the building, and structure are just one concern. Timely mitigation is the key to controlling damage, while reducing downtime and recovery costs. Here at SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow, understand how disruptive fires can be for business owners, their tenants and even their customers. That is why we offer 24-hour emergency response. Our service response guidelines can help prevent fire damage from creating long-term problems. 

Smoke alarm facts:

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your business after fire and smoke damage.  SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow will always treat you, your tenant, and all those involved with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?

Call Us Today – (603) 893-9700

Fire Safety Plans Make a great Holiday Gift!

11/20/2017 (Permalink)

“Each year, statistics show the incidence of home cooking and candle fires peaks during the holiday season."

SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow is a restoration specialist that highlights the difference between fire prevention planning with fire safety planning.

The holidays are approaching and many families are finalizing plans for elaborate meals, get-togethers with friends, and decorating with festive lights. Amidst all this planning, SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow reminds homeowners that they may be overlooking the most important plan they can make—a fire safety plan.

“Each year, statistics show the incidence of home cooking and candle fires peaks during the holiday season. This tends to focus homeowners on fire prevention precautions—and that’s a good thing,” said Gregg White, owner of SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow. “But to truly protect your family from the dangers of a home fire, at the holidays and throughout the year, you need to start with a fire safety plan. Developing a fire safety plan and practicing it regularly with your family is the most important step you can take to help prevent a house fire from turning into a devastating tragedy.”

SERVPRO is a national leader and provider of fire and water cleanup and restoration services, and their disaster response professionals know from experience how devastating a home fire can be. They also know that when fire causes a loss of life, there is no “remediation” possible. This is why SERVPRO has teamed up with the American Red Cross by supporting the ARC Disaster Responder program, and in particular the Home Fire Preparedness Campaign.  As a Disaster Responder, SERVPRO pledges dollars and support in advance to help the ARC develop and distribute educational materials and respond immediately when they are needed. encourages all -area homeowners to follow these fire safety guidelines, developed by the ARC through their Home Fire Preparedness Campaign, to help minimize injury or loss of life due to a residential fire.

1. Install the right number of smoke alarms . Test them once a month and replace the batteries at least once a year.
2. Teach children what smoke alarms sound like and what to do when they hear one.
3. Ensure that all household members know two ways to escape from every room of your home and know the family meeting spot outside of your home.
4. Establish a family emergency communications plan and ensure all household members know who to contact if they cannot find one another.
5. Practice escaping from your home at least twice a year. Press the smoke alarm test button or yell “Fire” to alert everyone they must get out.
6. Make sure everyone knows how to call 9-1-1.
7. Teach household members to STOP, DROP and ROLL if their clothes should catch on fire.

“Fire prevention and fire safety planning are two very different things,” said Gregg. “Fire prevention planning helps control or eliminate the causes of a fire. Fire safety planning helps prevent injury and loss of life when a fire does break out. To protect your family and your property, you need both.”

 For more fire prevention and fire safety tips and information about fire and water damage restoration services, please visit our website. For more information on SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow, please contact Raeann Keeley-Pellerin at 603-893-9700 x33 or rpellerin@SERVPROoflawrence.com.

About SERVPRO® Founded in 1967, the SERVPRO® Franchise System is a leader and provider of fire and water cleanup and restoration services and mold mitigation and remediation. SERVPRO’s professional services network of more than 1,700 individually owned and operated Franchises responds to property damage emergencies ranging from small individual disasters to multi-million dollar large-loss events. Providing coverage in the United States and Canada, the SERVPRO® System has established relationships with major insurance companies and commercial clients, as well as individual homeowners.

Faster to Any Size Disaster at Your Home or Business

9/25/2017 (Permalink)

Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration.

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours or for you to get home and neither do we. SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays.

Faster To Any Size Disaster

Meet Our Crew

Company Certifications

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 603-893-9700

Within Minutes

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

Hours 1 - 24:

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

48 Hours to 1 Week:

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

A Little More About SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow

SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO®’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Flooding can happen anywhere, in any storm in your Salem/Plaistow Area

8/24/2017 (Permalink)

Many times, homeowners and business professionals alike do not know how to handle a flooding situation.

It is important to be prepared for when it does. Many times, homeowners and business professionals alike do not know how to handle a flooding situation. Besides calling a professional company, here are some quick facts about flooding and safety tips to keep in mind.:

• Most common and widespread natural disaster
• Most dangerous type is flash flooding
• At least 25% of business close their doors to never reopen after a flood
• Do not walk or driving through moving water.
• If need be, abandon the car and move to higher ground
• Floodwaters may be contaminated by oil, gasoline, raw sewage or more, so avoid it
• If your home is affected by floodwaters, it is important that everything is disinfected.

It is always better to have a professional handle the situation. When in doubt call or visit our page for more information.

Safety information provided by ready.gov

Storms Where SERVPRO Proved it is Always Ready to Help!

8/24/2017 (Permalink)

Our heroes are ready to help, near or far, small or large!

SERVPRO® has been on the scene for many large damages across the country. Having teams that can respond and help each other no matter where they are located is the benefit of being a company with franchises nationwide. Some of the events the company has been able to respond to are:

2011 North Dakota Floods

Helping over 400 residents, municipal buildings, hospitals, and business, SERVPRO® sent hundreds of crews to help

2011 Hurricane Irene/Tropical Storm Lee

The storms ranged from North Carolina to New England, and the Disaster Recovery Team®. About 1,000 crews took care of these states, helping return everything to normal.

2012 Hurricane Issac

This storm took on about five states and almost 100 franchises responded to help

2012 Hurricane Sandy

Sandy left her damage across 20 states and brought in 300 franchises, with 1000 crews coming across the country to help and sort through the damage.

2013 Alberta, Canada Floods

Over 120,000 residents were affected by these floods, and was the costliest storm to the country.

2013 Colorado Floods

The Disaster Recovery Team® responded to the towns surrounding the Colorado mountain communities to handle the damage from up to 17 inches of rain. 48 Franchises responded with 109 crews to take on the emergency response.

2014 Polar Vortex

39 States and 70% of the SERVPRO® franchises were affected by these lower than normal temperatures causing pipe breaks and more.

SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow is always ready to help, and call in the Disaster Recovery Team® where needed. When you are looking for help, give us a call.

Meet Our Crews in Your Salem/Plaistow SERVPRO

8/24/2017 (Permalink)

Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration.

SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help

Call Today - 978-475-1199

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

• Your name and contact information
• Your insurance information (if applicable)

• The street address of the water-damaged home or business
• When did the flooding or water damage occur?
• What caused the water damage (if known)?

• Is there electricity available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO of The Andovers

SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event.  From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Meet our crew 

Certifications

The Mold Remediation Process

7/24/2017 (Permalink)

Every mold infestation is different from the next, from the extent and type of growth, to the variety of materials affected.

Blog | SERVPRO Franchise Website Administration

This Plaistow family discovered extensive microbial growth in their home, thanks to a leaking pipe that went undetected for months. Believe it or not, mold problems like this can be mitigated with the right expertise and equipment to prevent further structural or health problems. SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow has trained technicians that were able to test and remove the mold growth, and then restore the space to preloss conditions. The family was very grateful that we were able to recover their home and protect them from any potential health effects. 

The Mold Remediation Process

Every mold infestation is different from the next, from the extent and type of growth, to the variety of materials affected. Each scenario requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same. When you discover mold, call us at 603-893-9700 and we will go through our standard mold remediation process to help you and your family: 

• Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment
• Mold Containment
• Air Filtration
• Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials
• Cleaning Contents and Belongings
• Restoration

Life can be unpredictable, but knowing who to call is half the battle. As always, contact SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow at 603-893-9700 to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

Helping You Return to Business as Fast as Possible

6/29/2017 (Permalink)

Having such a network of help can help SERVPRO® of Lawrence make any disaster “Like it never even happened.”

When water damage happens, knowing who to call is the first step in relieving some of the stress. But when a flooding occurs? It is even better to know that we at SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow have a network of other franchises to pull in the equipment, resources and man power needed to help the large losses. Here are 5 examples of how we were able to support each other across the country.

• The Siberian Express in 2015 created record breaking sub-zero temperatures and broken pipes from Florida to Maine. 257 crews helped during these ice dams, with even SERVPRO of Lawrence working with teams from Alabama and Tennessee to help our homeowners.
• In April of 2016, Houston was engulfed in 2-4 inches of rain per hour. Eighty-one crews produced over 360 jobs in this historic event that left Harris County with 18 inches of rain.
• Over 830 jobs were created in 2016 during the Louisiana Flooding. Twenty + inches of rain caused rivers and other waterways to rise and flood Southern Louisiana. At least 185 crews from across the country helped get the community back in their pre storm condition.
• Hurricane Matthew in caused flooding the East Coast from Florida to North Carolina. One hundred sixty-nine crews mitigated over $7.5 million worth of damage to business owners and homeowners alike.
• Lastly, in East Tennessee, one of the largest wildfires in history struck the Great Smokey Mountains. Over 17,000 acres burned, and twelve crews came to the rescue to help the seventy families and businesses get the fire damage and soot under control.

SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow and these other teams can make any disaster “Like it never even happened.” We are there, no matter how big or small, call us 24/7/365 at 978-688-2242.

Emergency Fire Tips for Homeowners and Business Owners

6/19/2017 (Permalink)

After the work has been completed, a final walk-through will be conducted with you to help ensure your satisfaction.

The first 48 hours after fire damage can make the difference between restoring versus replacing your property and personal belongings. SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow can help prevent fire damage from creating long-term problems. We provide timely response with mitigation services ranging from fire, smoke and soot removal to contents claims inventory and document restoration. We will work neatly and efficiently to help you regain control of your property when a damaging event has taken over. They will use state-of-the-art restoration techniques to ensure your property is taken care of right the first time and are restored to preloss condition when possible.

• Limit movement to prevent further damage
• Place clean towels or old linens on carpeted traffic areas to prevent more soiling
• If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator and prop doors open
• Clean and protect chrome on kitchen and bathroom faucets and appliances with light coating of petroleum jelly
• Don’t attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without first contacting SERVPRO^®
• Don’t attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture without first consulting SERVPRO^®
• Don’t attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire or water damage without consulting a repair service.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpet
• Do not send clothing to a dry cleaner since improper cleaning may set smoke odor.

So before you risk doing further damage by attempting to clean up the damage yourself, call the fire damage cleanup and restoration professionals at (603) 893-9700. SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow has worked for over 40 years to help make fire damage “Like it never even happened.”

Hurricane Season is Upon Us!

6/1/2017 (Permalink)

Hurricane: an intense tropical weather system of strong thunderstorms with a surface circulation and maximum sustained winds of at least 74 MPH.

Hurricane season stars in June, and will continue for several months. When the warnings come, make sure you are prepared! Below are some tips to follow whether you own a home, RV, boat, car or all of them! You can see a storm coming by the change in color of the sky (often greenish), large hail, low-flying clouds and a roar like a freight train.

• It is best to have a plan in place regarding where you are going to go when a hurricane hits. While they may be intriguing to watch, the best place is NOT outside. Your basement or under a set of stairs are great places to wait out the storm. If this is not available, the bottom floor of any building will work.


• Keep your car indoors if possible. Tape up the windows and door with tarps and keep away from any objects that could damage the car if they were to fall on top of it.


• During an emergency, gas stations will often be closed, so always make sure you have at least half a tank of gas to get away instantly


• Have enough supplies on hand to wait out 72 hours, just in case help cannot arrive right away. These supplies can also be stored in the trunk (items like a first aid kit, bottled water, non-perishable foods, and medication can stay there at all times.)


• Make sure your car is in proper shape. Have a full tank of gas, wiper blades and tires are ready to go.


• Make sure your cell phone is charged and keep your charger with you.


• Avoid driving in deep waters


• For your boat, remove non-secure items, electronics, excess gear, valuable, and important documents.


• Make sure all openings are clear of debris


• Double all lines that are securing your boat to its securing space


• With your RV, do not drive it during the storm as it is more vulnerable to higher/stronger winds


• Make sure you have a full tank of gas, but empty holding tanks, turn off propane cylinders and cover the regulator.


• Make sure all documents are in a waterproof bag and with you at all times

Life can be unpredictable, but having plans in place help you with whatever may come. Rain, wind, and other conditions can be extremely damaging, but following some of these tips will help lessen the burden after the storm. For more information, please check out these hurricane tips. As always, once the storm passes, contact your SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow at 603-893-9700 to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

Behind the Scenes: What Our Tools Can Do for You.

5/10/2017 (Permalink)

The meters can determine if materials are wet below the surface, potentially causing more damage that you are unaware of.

You have been away for two weeks on vacation, you arrive home at 9pm on a Sunday night and what do you want do? Probably get home, relax, and call it a night. But when you walk in and a pipe has burst while you are gone? That changes everything.

In order to save money, people can sometimes use their own tools to stop and dry up water damage. But, unfortunately, sometimes the unseen water in your home or office can cause the most problems. Hidden behind walls, cabinets or under flooring can be pooled water or moisture that will cause greater health risks to your home and family later on. Here at SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow, we have the tools to see that hidden damage and help stop potential problems. Some of those tools are that can be used to help you are:

• Moisture Sensors – these will detect moisture in carpet, walls, and baseboards.
• Moisture Meters – these determine the level of moisture in materials. These can either penetrate or not the materials, depending on what they are to help monitor the progress of drying throughout the job.
• Thermohygrometers – these devices help monitor the temperature and relative humidity in the air. These two are a large part in the drying process and help SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow team members determine how to adjust the process along the way.
• Infrared Cameras – this helps identify the areas that have hidden moisture and document its location. These cameras identify temperature differences in materials from where the areas are cooling (water has been evaporating) and where it is still affected by the moisture.

Our goal is helping homeowners and business owners alike return their home to “Like it never even happened.” When in doubt, call SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow to walk you through each step of restoring your home to preloss conditions..

SERVPRO Celebrates Entrepreneurship in Recognition of Small Business Week 2017

4/11/2017 (Permalink)

Mold Remediation in a Salem, NH Home

4/10/2017 (Permalink)

Believe it or not, mold problems like this can be mitigated with the right expertise and equipment.

This Salem business discovered extensive mold growth in their home, thanks to leaking pipe that went undetected. Businesses are always at risk for mold infestations, especially if they are leasing older buildings that may need repairs. 

SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow worked around the clock to remediate the problem, so that business could be restored as quickly and seamlessly as possible. We know that commercial mold infestations can cost a business thousands of dollars in productivity; it is always our goal to get you back up and running right away. 

If You See Visible Mold 

If you see visible mold, do not disturb it. You can inadvertently spread the mold infestation throughout your home. When mold is disturbed, the mold can release microscopic mold spores which become airborne and can circulate inside your home.

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow for mold remediation services.

What Not to Do:

• Don’t touch or disturb the mold.
• Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.
• Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself.
• Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.

About Our Mold Remediation Services

SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow specializes in mold cleanup and restoration, in fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business.  Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 603-893-9700

Emergency Preparedness to Protect Your Business

3/20/2017 (Permalink)

The ERP also establishes your SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow as your disaster restoration provider, giving you access to over 40 years of experience.

When it comes to your business, it is your pride and joy. You pray that a disaster never strikes, ruining all of your hard work.

Questions that run through your mind when disaster strikes, but is helpful to think of before that:

• Do you have insurance


• Do you have an emergency plan in place? Does your staff know about it?


• Can you access your business records if they were destroyed?

“Small business owners invest a tremendous amount of time, money and resources to make their ventures successful, yet, many owners fail to properly plan and prepare for disaster situations. According to the Institute for Business and Home Safety, an estimated 25 percent of businesses do not reopen following a major disaster.”¹

Creating a business plan for disaster will help protect employees, shorten the amount of time you may have to be out of work, and possibly lessen the financial impact it will have on you.

1. Identify critical business systems – how long can they be down and what is needed to keep everything functioning.


2. Create an emergency communication plan with all those who have a stake in your business.


3. Enroll in the Red Cross Ready Rating Program


4. Build a supply kit that will keep your business and employees safe should you be at work when disaster strikes


5. Work with SERVPRO of Lawrence to build an Emergency Ready Profile. This will provide the information for all emergency personnel that need to be contacted when disaster strikes and when our Team arrives on site, it gives the knowledge of your building before we even step in the door. This provides efficient and faster service for you!

For more information on how to help prepare your business for disaster, please contact us at 978-688-2242 or SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow.

¹https://www.sba.gov/managing-business/running-business/emergency-preparedness/disaster-planning?SOCMEDSeptemberDisastergovd=&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery

Mold and Containment: How They Go Hand in Hand

3/13/2017 (Permalink)

Since we know our enemy, we know it's greatest weakness - it cannot move on its own accord.

This information was taken from Restoration and Remediation, an online magazine. It is beneficial to share information with you regarding mold and why we use containment in the remediation process.

"The great mold warriors we meet and work with on a daily basis all have a common advantage- like the greatest generals in history, they know their enemy. More specifically they know and understand that the greatest strength of their enemy is its invisibility.

Before your own battle begins, you have to understand that you must strategically approach the enemy by devising systems to discover, collect, and contain it which will work despite your inability to visualize its presence. 

Erecting containment and generating and directing the air flow within that containment will enable us to win the air war, by controlling the enemy's movement. 

Where is the most strategic location of this containment?  It should be placed as close to the source of invasion as possible while still permitting us to gain access and accomplish our work.

Taken to its extreme, if it allows you to do what you need, it can be as small as a glove bag over a pipe, such as is used by our asbestos warrior brethren.

One of the most common flaws in mold remediation projects is a containment structure that is larger than it needs to be:  Larger containments require more equipment for managing airflow, have more possible leak points, and require more time and effort to decontaminate prior to de-mobilization. While erecting a containment, one must carefully balance the trade-offs between size and work access.

To do so, one can rely on the knowledge of experienced mold warriors and follow the established principles."

When mold affects your home, call SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow to help guide you through the process. From bringing in an Industrial Hygienist, to cleaning, to disinfecting, we will be here.

Ice Dams on Your Newton, NH Home

3/10/2017 (Permalink)

Dams can tear off gutters, loosen shingles, and cause water to back up and pour into your house.

Snow and ice dams are very real problems that affect many homes. I’m sure many homeowners remember the damage they caused in 2015, and how long into spring it was still affecting them. Here, in an article by This Old House, the life of an ice dam is explained along with how to get rid of them.

Icicles hanging along the eaves of your house may look beautiful, but they spell trouble. That's because the same conditions that allow icicles to form—snow-covered roofs and freezing weather—also lead to ice dams: thick ridges of solid ice that build up along the eaves. Dams can tear off gutters, loosen shingles, and cause water to back up and pour into your house. When that happens, the results aren't pretty: peeling paint, warped floors, stained and sagging ceilings. Not to mention soggy insulation in the attic, which loses R-value and becomes a magnet for mold and mildew.

Keep reading to learn more about how ice dams form so that you can prevent them altogether or make a quick fix if they've already formed. And for more information on how SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow can help you, please visit our website or call 603-893-9700

Choosing the Best Fire Extinguisher for Your Plaistow Home

3/7/2017 (Permalink)

"Accident brings tears, fire safety brings cheers." - unknown

This article from Remodelista explains the need for fire extinguishers in your home, how many, and the options you have. “Every home needs at least one fire extinguisher that’s kept readily at hand. And yet many homeowners either (A.) know they don’t have a fire extinguisher and don’t think it’s a problem (I’m embarrassed to admit I was in this category until I started researching this post), or (B.) own a fire extinguisher (or several) but have no idea how to operate it or even if it would still work in case of a fire. Here’s what you should know about fire extinguishers to help keep your home and family safe.”

When using  a fire extinguisher, remember these simple tips:

• P stands for “pull the pin” to release the lock on the nozzle. Obviously, you’d point the nozzle away from your body as you do this.
• A stands for “aim low.” That means directing the stream at the source of the fire, not at the leaping flames.
• S  is for squeeze the lever slowly and evenly.
• S is to remind you to “sweep” the nozzle from side to side as you release the flame retardant.

SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow is able to help if a fire does strike your home or office. Should you have questions, concerns, or would like more information, please visit our website or call 603-893-9700

When Storms Surprise You, Be Prepared!

2/20/2017 (Permalink)

When in doubt, stay away from anything that may look suspicious or anything that may be break due to the weight of the snow.

The potential for surprise snow storms as Spring approaches can be very real. Do you remember the April Fool's Day storm? Sometimes, the meteorologists are not even 100% sure what will happen.

These storms can also look beautiful as the snow sticks to trees and coats everything in white. But they can be dangerous to your home and office. In order to stay safe, SERVPRO of Lawrence wants you to please follow these and other safety tips for your home.

• Before the Storm




• Have an emergency supply kit on hand


• Develop a communication plan with all members of your family




• After the Storm               




• If wires come down due to the weight of the snow, do not touch them


• Do not drive on roads that haven't been cleared

Keep you and your family safe through a storm. When in doubt, stay away from anything that may look suspicious or anything that may be break due to the weight of the snow. 

If the snow starts melting and it comes into your home, SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow is here to help! We can remove any affected materials and dry out the structure. For more information, please visit our website or call (603) 893-9700

Preparation Provides the Best Response in an Emergency

1/30/2017 (Permalink)

The ERP is a no-cost assessment; all it requires is a little time, making it a great value that could save you time and money in the future.

In the event of an emergency, the Emergency READY Profile^® or ERP can help minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action in place for your facility. Working with SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow on an ERP will provide you with a comprehensive document containing critical information about your business, including emergency contact information, shut-off valve locations and priority areas.

The ERP also establishes your local SERVPRO^® Franchise Professional as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider, giving you access to over 40 years of experience and a System over 1,600 Franchises strong. The ERP is a no-cost assessment; all it requires is a little time, making it a great value that could save you time and money in the future.

Preparation is the key to making it through any size disaster, whether it is a small water leak, a large fire or an area flood. Having a plan in place may help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive and get you back in the building following a disaster.

Don't wait until disaster strikes. Call SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow at 603-893-9700 or visit our website to establish your Emergency READY Profile^®, and be "Ready for whatever happens."

When Disaster Threatens Your Salem/Plaistow Business

1/17/2017 (Permalink)

No matter what part of the country you call home, we want to ensure you are prepared for any type of disaster.

When disaster threatens a community, it is often too late to take the necessary steps to prepare homes, businesses and family members for the situation. Whether it's a blizzard, flood, hurricane or wildfire, disasters of all types often give little to no warning before they strike. The time to prepare for a storm is not as it approaches-the time to prepare is now.

No matter what part of the country you call home, we want to ensure you are prepared for any type of disaster. Whether you have damage caused by a hurricane, tornado, flash flood, or any other reason, SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow have the resources, experience and training to help get your doors reopened for business as soon as possible.

If your property suffers a fire or water damage, SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow will be ready to help you make it "Like it never even happened."

Items To Help You Build Your Own Emergency Kit

• Water (one gallon per person per day)
• Food (non-perishable 3-day supply)
• Manual can opener
• Battery operated radio, preferably a NOAA Weather Radio
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• First aid kit
• Whistle to signal for help
• Clothing
• Dust masks or bandanas
• Plastic sheeting, garbage bags and duct tape
• Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
• Hygiene items
• Important documents; copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account information
• Cash
• Fire extinguisher
• Matches in a waterproof container

5 Wildfire Safety Tips

1/17/2017 (Permalink)

Wildfires can occur at any time throughout the year, but the potential is always higher during periods with little or no rainfall.

A wildfire can occur anywhere-in fact, in 2014, wildfire occurrences were  recorded in all 50 states. What is a wildfire? It is an unplanned, unwanted fire burning in a natural area, such as a forest, grassland, or prairie. A wildfire can destroy homes, businesses, agriculture, and damage natural resources while threatening the safety of the public and the firefighters who protect our forests and communities.  Wildfires can occur at any time throughout the year, but the potential is always higher during periods with little or no rainfall, which make brush, grass, and trees dry and burn more easily. High winds can also contribute to spreading the fire.

If you live or work in an area prone to wildfires, consider the following safety tips to help prevent the spread of wildfire.

Wildfire Safety Tips

• Clear leaves and other debris from gutters, eaves, porches and decks. Remove dead  vegetation from under your deck and within 10  feet  of the  house.  This  prevents  embers from igniting your home.
• Remove anything stored underneath decks or porches. Screen or box-in areas below patios and decks with wire mesh to  prevent debris from accumulating.
• Ensure flammable materials (firewood stacks, propane tanks, dry vegetation) are more than 30 feet from your home or business's foundation and outbuildings.
• Wildfire can spread to tree tops. If you have trees on your property, prune so the lowest branches are 6 to 10 feet from the ground.
• Keep your lawn hydrated and maintained. If it is brown, cut it down to reduce fire intensity. Dry grass and shrubs are fuel for wildfire.

Let Us Help You Worry Less When a Fire Strikes

1/12/2017 (Permalink)

Worrying about the cleanup and restoration can be stressful, and many home and business owners are left with a feeling of helplessness and uncertainty

Worrying about the cleanup and restoration can be stressful, and many home and business owners are left with a feeling of helplessness and uncertainty. SERVPRO's Franchise Professionals know restoring peace of mind is just as important as restoring property.

This blog provides information on the steps to take in an effort to prevent costly secondary damage to your property and possession s should a fire strike your home or business. It also reinforces the importance of being prepared and having a fire escape plan in place.

Your local SERVPRO’s Franchise Professionals want to be there in your time of need, helping you and your customers piece their lives back together.

Our goal is simple:

In an emergency situation, like a building fire, every second counts. How quickly you respond could depend on how prepared you are before the emergency. Emergency planning and training directly influence the outcome of an emergency situation. Facilities with well-prepared employees and well-developed plans are likely to incur less structural damage and fewer or less severe employee injuries.

When preparing a fire evacuation plan, it is important to designate multiple evacuation routes and exits. This ensures more than one way to exit the building, should an exit be blocked by fire. When choosing emergency exits, consider the following recommendations.

• Exits should be clearly marked and well  
• Exit routes should be wide enough to accommodate the number/volume of evacuating person
• Exit routes should remain unobstructed and clear of debris at all times.

If you  prepare  drawings  that  show  evacuation routes and exits, post  them  prominently  for  all employees  to  see. Once an  escape  plan  is created, it should  be  practiced  to help familiarize  staff  with  emergency  exit  routes. It is important to talk to your local fire department, as local codes may require more frequent drills  for various  facilities.

Your local SERVPRO@ Franchise Professionals can help with emergency planning by establishing an Emergency READY Profile, (ERP), for your facility. For more information about the ERP or emergency planning, contact SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow 603-893-9700.

Flooding in Your Salem/Plaistow Area

1/12/2017 (Permalink)

If you approach a flooded road while driving, turn around and go another way.

Floods rank as one of the most common and widespread natural disasters in the United States. Whether you live near a coastline, along city streets, in the mountains, near a river or even in the desert, there is a potential for suffering from flood damage.

Just because you haven't experienced  a  flood  in  the past,  doesn’t  mean  you  won't  in  the future.  In fact, 20% of all claims paid by the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) were for policies in low-risk communities. On average, floods cost $3 billion in annual losses in the United States. Commercial flood claims average more than $75,000.

According to the American Red Cross (ARC), floods cause more damage in the U.S. every year than any other weather-related disaster.  The ARC offers the following flood safety tips.

• Stay away from floodwaters. If you come up on a flowing scream where water is above your ankles, stop, rum around and go another Six inches of swiftly moving water can  sweep you  off of your feet.
• If you approach  a flooded  road while driving, turn around and go another way. If you are caught on a flooded road  and waters are rising rapidly around  you,  get out of the car quickly and move to higher ground. Most cars can be swept away by less than two feet of moving water.
• Keep children out of the water. They are curious and often lack judgment about run ning water or contaminated water. Keep your pets out of the water too.

If a flood does strike your home or business, contact SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow. Even minor floods have the potential to cause major damage to a  structure when not treated quickly and properly, and the cleanup is often an overwhelming task. The SERVPRO® System is prepared to handle any sized disaster. The sooner work begins, the sooner order can be restored.

When fire and water take control of your life, SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow will help you take it back.

How We Handle Mold in Your Salem, NH Home Part 1

1/12/2017 (Permalink)

Although every mold damage scenario is different requiring a unique solution, the general mold remediation process stays the same.

When there's a water intrusion, like a roof leak or leaking water line, mold can quickly become a problem in your home or business. Mold can cause health effects and can also cause significant damage to your property. Fortunately, SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow has the training, protective gear, and specialized equipment necessary to handle your mold problem. Although every mold damage scenario is different requiring a unique solution, the general mold remediation process stays the same. The following steps illustrate a "typical" mold removal process.

Call 978-688-2242 for help with your mold remediation needs.

The mold cleanup and restoration process begins when you call SERVPRO of Lawrence. A representative will ask a series of questions to help determine the necessary equipment, resources, and personnel needed.

Inspection and Damage Assessment

Your property will be carefully inspected for signs of mold using technology designed to detect mold and hidden water sources. Mold feeds on cellulose and water and can be hidden from plain view.

Mold Containment

Various containment procedures will be placed to prevent the spread of mold and isolate the contaminated area with physical barriers and negative air pressure to keep the mold spores from spreading during the cleanup process.

Air Filtration

Specialized filtration equipment captures microscopic    mold spores out of the air. SERVPRO® technicians utilize powerful air scrubbers and HEPA vacuums to prevent the spread of these mold spores while the mold remediation is in progress.

How We Handle Mold in Your Salem, NH Home Part 2

1/12/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow understands mold and mold growth and have the training and equipment to remediate mold in your home or business.

The next steps for the Mold Remediation Process provided by your SERVPRO of Lawrence franchise:

Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials The mold remediation process depends on the amount of mold growth and the types of surfaces on which the mold appears. Antifungal and antimicrobial treatments will be used to eliminate mold colonies and help prevent new colonies from forming. Removing and disposing of mold-infested porous materials, like drywall and flooring, may be necessary to remediate heavy mold growth.

Cleaning Contents and Belongings SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals clean your furniture, decorative items, curtains, and other restorable items affected by mold. They use a variety of cleaning techniques to clean and sanitize your belongings.  They are also trained to remove odors and deodorization using fogging equipment.

Restoration

Depending on the level of mold damage, drywall, subfloors, and other building materials may be removed. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet; or it may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.

SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow understands mold and mold growth and have the training and equipment to remediate mold in your home or business.

American Red Cross Partnership with SERVPRO®

1/12/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has a partnership with the American Red Cross to help victims of natural disasters.

No matter where you live, it is important to be informed and prepared for any natural disaster that may occur. Natural disasters often strike without warning, leaving behind a trail of destruction and devastation. Though Mother Nature’s disasters are often unpredictable, there are steps you can take to ensure you are prepared.

yourself with preparedness tips so you’ll be ready if flooding occurs in your area.

SERVPRO^®  has a partnership with the American Red Cross to help victims of natural disasters. 

Each year, the American Red Cross recognizes Flood Awareness week in mid-March.  The week was designed to promote flood preparedness to home and business owners.  Use this time to arm yourself with preparedness tips so you’ll be ready if flooding occurs in your area.

SERVPRO^® is  proud  to  partner  with  the American Red  Cross  and  promote  readiness  through SERVPRO's Emergency READY Program and the Red Cross's Ready Rating^TM program.

Contact SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow to see how both programs can help better prepare your business for any type of disaster.

Take Steps to Prepare for a Water Emergency in Your Pelham Home

1/12/2017 (Permalink)

Chances are your home or business will eventually suffer some sort of emergency; that is why it is important to prepare now, before disaster strikes.

When it comes to life’s emergencies, it isn't a matter of if they will occur­ it's a matter of when they will occur.  Home and business owners can take steps to prepare for disasters, but you can never fully prevent them from happening.  An old pipe bursts. A storm blows in dozens of gallons of water. A washing machine malfunctions. Chances are your home or business will eventually suffer some sort of emergency; that is why it is important to prepare now, before disaster strikes.

SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow is trained to respond quickly, professionally and efficiently when managing your loss. When your home or business is under water, every minute counts. That's why SERVPRO of Lawrence is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

In this blog, you'll find more information including:

• The dangers of
• What to do following water damage.

Should a disaster strike, call SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow at 603-893-9700 to help make it "Like it never even happened."

Ways to Sense Water in Your Hampstead Home

1/12/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow will answer your call with fast action and a full arsenal of drying equipment.

Even small water damages have the potential to cause serious structural and indoor  air quality  issues  over time.

The key to avoiding costly future restoration is to handle every water problem as a real threat to your property. SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow has the equipment, training and experience to find and dry unseen water before secondary damages occur. The proper equipment makes a measurable difference in reducing the damage expense during a fire or water loss. When time matters, technology and equipment must be counted on to perform. SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow will answer your call with fast action and a full arsenal of drying equipment. Here are a few of the tools used by your local SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals.

• Moisture Sensors are used to detect moisture in carpets, baseboards and Moisture Meters (pictured) are used to determine the actual moisture content of various materials. The moisture tester provides accurate readings, allowing SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals to monitor the drying process.
• Thermohygrometers measure temperature and relative humidity. When armed with this information, SERVPRO® of Lawrence can calculate and create an environment most conclusive to drying.
• When facing a contaminated water loss, it is not only important to dry the structure, but the structure must also be disinfected and often deodorized.
• Ultra-Low-Volume (ULV) Foggers will atomize liquid deodorizing agents, producing a fine mist that can easily penetrate the site where odor-causing residues may accumulate. This device can also be used to inject fungicides and disinfectants into wall cavities and other hard-to-reach
• Thermal Foggers (pictured) dispense solvent-based produces by creating a dense fog. The fog consists of tiny particles of deodorant solution that attach to and neutralize odor­ causing particles.

What is the bottom line? SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow (603-893-9700) has the training and equipment to help make it "Like it never even happened."

Ready in 2017 in Your Salem/Plaistow Business

12/30/2016 (Permalink)

Did you know up to 50 percent of businesses that suffer a disaster may never reopen?

Here at SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow, we want to make sure everyone is ready for the new year! Did you know up to 50 percent of businesses that suffer a disaster may never reopen? For those that do survive, the majority have an emergency readiness plan available before disaster strikes. Advantages to of the SERVPRO® of Lawrence Emergency READY Profile are:

·         A no cost assessment of your facility

·         A concise profile document containing only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency

·         A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster

·         Establishes us as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider.

·         Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin

·         Provides  facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information

Preparation is the key to making it through any size disaster, whether it is a small water leak, a large fire, or an area flood. Having a plan in place may help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive and get you back in the building following a disaster.

Don’t wait for a disaster to strike, call SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow today to schedule your ERP (603) 893-9700

We are Hiring: SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow Production Technician

12/27/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Lawrence is an EOE M/F/D/V employer

SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow Production Technician

Our Franchise is seeking someone who is comfortable working hard in challenging situations, enjoys meeting new people, has excellent communication skills, and is a serious multi-tasker. If you are self-motivated and have superb interpersonal skills, then you’ll thrive in this work environment. Are you highly dependable and super-excited about routinely exceeding expectations? Then you may be our perfect hero !

As a valued SERVPRO® Franchise employee, you will receive a competitive pay rate, with opportunity to learn and grow.

"Ready for whatever happens." in Your Salem or Plaistow Business

12/16/2016 (Permalink)

Having a plan in place may help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive and get you back in the building following a disaster.

A new year often signifies a fresh start. Many people make resolutions to better themselves or some part of their life. This year, make a resolution to be READY.  No one ever plans on a disaster, but now, you can prepare for it. The SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile, (ERP), will help ensure you are "Ready for whatever happens."

In the event of an emergency, the ERP can help minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action in place for your facility. The ERP is a comprehensive document containing critical information about your business, including emergency contact information, shut-off valve locations and priority areas.

The ERP also establishes your local SERVPRO, Franchise Professional as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider, giving you access to over 40 years’ experience and a System over 1,600 Franchises strong. The ERP is a no-cost assessment; all it requires is a little time, making it a great value that could save you time and money in the future.

Preparation is the key to making it through any size disaster, whether it is a small water leak, a large fire or an area flood. Having a plan in place may help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive and get you back in the building following a disaster.

Don't wait until disaster strikes. Call SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow at 603-893-9700 to establish your Emergency READY Profile, and be "Ready for whatever happens."

Mold Infestation in Your Salem or Plaistow Home

12/16/2016 (Permalink)

hen water intrusions are not addressed right away, the resulting damage can present increased risk of harmful mold growth.

Fungi and mold naturally occur in our environment. In fact, over 100,000 kinds of fungi have been identified.

Fungi produce some very useful results. Yeast is a type of fungi used in breads, baked goods and other food products, including some alcoholic beverages. The unique flavor of blue cheese is a result of mold. An edible mushroom is simply a type of fungi, and lifesaving penicillin is a product of mold (Penicillin chrysogenum).

Even though some forms of mold can add value to our lives, other forms can be harmful. Excessive amounts of mold, different types of mold, and/or exposure to molds may present health concerns for some people.

Intrusion of water into your home or place of business can result in mold growth. Water intrusions can result from storm damage, plumbing or equipment failures, long-standing leaks and poor humidity control. When water intrusions are not addressed right away, the resulting damage can present increased risk of harmful mold growth. Some amount of mold spores is normally present in most environments. If the humidity and moisture levels in water-damaged environments are not promptly returned to normal, mold spores may grow and multiply. Organic materials found inside a building, such as wood, paper, drywall and insulation, provide food sources for mold to flourish. Excessive mold growth can lead to indoor environmental conditions that pose a health threat.

Courtesy of SERVPRO®. 

Mold Remediation in Your Salem, NH Area Home

12/16/2016 (Permalink)

Your local SERVPRO@ Franchise Professionals understand mold and mold growth and have the training and equipment to remediate mold in your home or busi

In as little as 48 hours, mold can quickly become a problem in your home or business when there's a water intrusion, like a roof leak or leaking water line. Mold can cause health effects and can also cause significant damage to your property. Fortunately, your local SERVPRO Franchise Professionals have the training, protective gear, and specialized equipment necessary to handle    your mold problem.

Although every mold damage scenario is different requiring a unique solution, the general mold remediation process stays the same. The following steps illustrate a “typical” mold removal process:

Call 1-800-SERVPRO or your local SERVPRO Franchise Professionals

The mold clean up and restoration process begins when you call SERVPRO's National Call Center. A representative will ask a series of questions to help determine the necessary equipment, resources, and personnel needed.

Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment Your property will be carefully inspected for signs of mold using various technologies to detect mold and hidden water sources. Mold feeds on cellulose and water and can be hidden from plain view.

Mold Containment

Various containment procedures  will  be  placed to prevent the spread of mold, like negative air chambers to isolate the  contaminated area with physical barriers and negative air pressure to keep the mold spores  from  spreading  during  the cleanup process.

Air Filtration

Specialized filtration equipment captures micro­scopic mold spores out of the air. SERVPRO@ technicians utilize powerful "air scrubbers" and HEPA vacuums to prevent the spread of these mold spores while the mold remediation is in progress.

Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials The mold remediation process depends on the amount of mold growth and the types of surfaces on which the mold appears. Antifungal and antimicrobial treatments will be used to eliminate mold colonies and help prevent new colonies from forming. Removing and disposing of mold-infested porous material s, like drywall and flooring, may be necessary to remediate heavy mold growth.

Cleaning Contents and Belongings SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals clean your furniture, decorative items, curtains, and other restorable items affected by mold. They use a variety of cleaning techniques to clean and sanitize your belongings. They are also trained to remove odors and deodorization using fogging equipment.

Restoration

Depending on the level of mold damage, drywall, subfloors, and other building materials may be removed. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet; or it may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.

Storm Damage in Your Plaistow Area Home

12/16/2016 (Permalink)

While the weather is in Mother Nature’s control, there are steps that everyone can take in order to protect their property.

Winter months are very hazardous to homes and businesses. With rain, snow, below freezing temperatures, and ice there are many different causes of damage. While the weather is in Mother Nature’s control, there are steps that everyone can take in order to protect their property.

1. Watch for downed limbs and trees. The weight of ice and snow can cause these to break and fall, causing damage to electrical lines or homes. If it does take down wires, stay away from them and call 911 or your electrical company. Do not touch anything that the wires are on. You never know if they are live.

2. Inspect the roof, gutters, and water pipes for damage. Keep them clear of all debris.

3. Keep roof lines clear of snow and ice as much as possible to prevent ice dams

4. When temperatures dip below freezing, keep faucets dripping in order to prevent frozen pipes that can burst and cause further damage.

5. If you own a commercial building, consider asking SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow to provide and Emergency Ready Profile to help prepare you when an emergency does happen. As this is a free program, there is no better time than now to get this started.

These and many more tips will help keep you safe this winter, and hopefully prevent less damage to your property.

When A Storm Strikes Your Salem/Plaistow Home

12/16/2016 (Permalink)

Whether it is heavy rain, freezing temperatures, damaging winds, sleet or snow, all can cause serious property damage.

Cold weather can have a huge impact on your home or business if you are not properly prepared. Whether it is heavy rain, freezing temperatures, damaging winds, sleet or snow, all can cause serious property damage. While you can't control the weather, you can take steps to be prepared, and help take the sting out of winter weather.

To help prevent costly damages due to weather, consider taking the following precautions before winter weather hits.

• Check your business property for downed tree limbs and 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.

• Roofs, water pipes and gutters should all be inspected to ensure they are in proper order. Gutter downspouts should be directed away from your Clear gutters of debris that may have gathered during the fall. Leaves and other obstructions can lead to a damming effect, causing roof damage and interior water problems.

• Inspect property, especially walkways and parking lots, for proper drainage to alleviate flood hazard

• Inspect all hand rails, 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.

• Protect water pipes from freezing by simply allowing water to drip when temperatures dip below If pipes are under a cabinet, leave the cabinet doors open allowing warm inside air to circulate around the pipes. If the building has outdoor faucets, consider shutting water off at the main valve in the basement or crawl space. Once the valve  is off,  open  the outdoor  faucet  to  ensure it drains, preventing any remaining water from freezing in the pipe

• Ask your local SERVPRO Franchise Professional s about completing an Emergency READY Profile (ERP) for your business The ERP is a no cost assessment to your facility, and provides you with a plan to get back in business fast following a disaster.

Holidays in Your Salem and Plaistow Home

12/13/2016 (Permalink)

The holiday season is a time for gathering with friends and family to enjoy fellowship and quality time. Don't let a home fire ruin your plans.

The holiday season is here and that usually brings Christmas trees, candles, and many more decorations. As December is the peak point in the year where candle fires increase, SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow wants to help with some ideas to keep you and your home safe.

• Place Christmas trees, candles and other holiday decorations at least three feet away from heat sources like fireplaces, portable heaters, radiators, heat vents and candles.
• Make sure that light strings and other holiday decorations are in good condition. Do not use anything with frayed electrical cords and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Always unplug tree and holiday lights before leaving the property or going to bed.
• Never use lit candles to decorate a tree. Always extinguish candles before leaving the room or going to bed.
• Use sturdy tree stands designed not to tip over. Keep curious pets and children away from Christmas trees
• Keep anything that can catch on fire – pot holders, oven mitts, wooden utensils, paper or plastic bags, food packaging, and towels or curtains – away from your stove top.
• Designate one person to walk around your property to ensure all candles and smoking materials are properly extinguished after customers leave.

When disaster does strike, SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow is always here to help. Give us a call at 603-893-9700 with questions, or when you in need of service. No job is too big or too small.

Smoke and Soot Cleanup in your Salem or Plaistow Home

12/7/2016 (Permalink)

Smoke and Soot Damage Can Cause a Pervasive Odor in Your Salem/Plaistow Home

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? Call Us Today – 603-893-9700

Odor Damage in your Salem/Plaistow Home and Business

11/29/2016 (Permalink)

When fire strikes, the odor clean up is just as important as all other damage. We are help to help every step of the way!

Even a small fire can cause odors for years to come if the affected areas are not properly cleaned and deodorized. Fire, smoke and soot damage in your home or business can create unpleasant and potentially permanent problems.

As various materials burn, the smoke produced travels throughout the structure, leaving odorous residues and deposits on surfaces and in hard to reach places. Unless fast, professional action is taken, these residues and deposits can cause permanent damage to contents and may result in resurfacing odors.

SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow can provide specialized services that rid your home or business of offensive odors left by fire or smoke damage. Any restorable item in affected areas will be professionally cleaned and deodorized, including: furniture, draperies and upholstery, electronics, art, flooring, walls, ceilings, HVAC air ducts, and more.

SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow does not cover up lingering odors with a fragrance, they seek out and remove the sources of the odor. Ask your SERVPRO representative to explain the various deodorization methods available and which will work best for you.

If you or a customer suffer a fire damage or some other accident and require deodorization services please visit our website or contact SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow at 603-893-9700. Whether it's fire, water or mold damage, or just a stubborn odor that refuses to go away, we'll make it "Like it never even happened."

About SERVPRO® Founded in 1967, the SERVPRO® Franchise System is a leader and provider of fire and water cleanup and restoration services and mold mitigation and remediation. SERVPRO’s professional services network of more than 1,700 individually owned and operated Franchises responds to property damage emergencies ranging from small individual disasters to multi-million dollar large-loss events. Providing coverage in the United States and Canada, the SERVPRO® System has established relationships with major insurance companies and commercial clients, as well as individual homeowners.

Salem and Plaistow Business Owners: Is Your Property Ready for Winter?

11/22/2016 (Permalink)

Ready for any size disaster, SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow can use resources from across the country to help when needed.

The Farmer's Alamac, which has an 80% accuracy, is predicting a winter of icy temperatures and filled with snow! As some of us have now seen our first snow of the year, it is time to start thinking about what type of impact the cold weather can have on your business.  With winter, we have all experienced the frigid temperatures, heavy (weight and volume) of snow, sleet and ice dams. These can all cause damage to your property if the proper steps are not taken. Below is our top ten practices to prevent costly damages.

Before the Winter:

1. Make sure gutters are pointed away from the building and clear of all debris.

1. Inspect the roof and all water pipes to make sure they are in optimal working condition.
2. Check walkways and parking lots before winter comes in strong to make sure there are no hazards that could be covered and cause damage to a car or person.

1. Install mats or non-slip surfaces where water and ice could create potential hazards

1. For any outdoor faucets, consider shutting off the water supply to it from inside at the main valve. Then, open the outdoor faucet to let it drip, releasing any water that could freeze.

1. Create a plan for if power is lost. How will heat be maintained so that pipes don't freeze?
2. If you have a generator, make sure it is ready for use outdoors, and that you have fuel on hand to service it.

During the winter:

1. Be aware of any downed limbs or trees on your property. This winter weather can cause these to fall and therefore cause damage to your building.
2. Continuously check walkways, handrails, stairs and parking lots to make sure they are safe for your customers.
3. Protect your pipes from freezing. A simple way to do this, is when temperatures are going to drop below freezing, allow your faucets to have a small drip. Any pipes that are in cabinets, just open the doors so they can receive the warmth of the building surrounding it.

Most importantly, work with SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow to prepare an Emergency Ready Plan (ERP) for your business. This is a no cost analysis for your property that will provide a plan for your business to get back up and running as quickly as possible following any type of disaster.

Do you have other things you do to help? Let us know, and we can continue growing our list!

For help with damage that may occur to your property, please visit our website or call SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow at 978-688-2242.

About SERVPRO® Founded in 1967, the SERVPRO® Franchise System is a leader and provider of fire and water cleanup and restoration services and mold mitigation and remediation. SERVPRO’s professional services network of more than 1,700 individually owned and operated Franchises responds to property damage emergencies ranging from small individual disasters to multi-million dollar large-loss events. Providing coverage in the United States and Canada, the SERVPRO® System has established relationships with major insurance companies and commercial clients, as well as individual homeowners.

Looking for a Great Holiday Gift Idea? Give Your Family a Fire Safety Plan

11/16/2016 (Permalink)

“Each year, statistics show the incidence of home cooking and candle fires peaks during the holiday season."

SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow is a restoration specialist that highlights the difference between fire prevention planning with fire safety planning.

The holidays are approaching and many families are finalizing plans for elaborate meals, get-togethers with friends, and decorating with festive lights. Amidst all this planning, SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow reminds homeowners that they may be overlooking the most important plan they can make—a fire safety plan.

“Each year, statistics show the incidence of home cooking and candle fires peaks during the holiday season. This tends to focus homeowners on fire prevention precautions—and that’s a good thing,” said Gregg White, owner of SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow. “But to truly protect your family from the dangers of a home fire, at the holidays and throughout the year, you need to start with a fire safety plan. Developing a fire safety plan and practicing it regularly with your family is the most important step you can take to help prevent a house fire from turning into a devastating tragedy.”

SERVPRO is a national leader and provider of fire and water cleanup and restoration services, and their disaster response professionals know from experience how devastating a home fire can be. They also know that when fire causes a loss of life, there is no “remediation” possible. This is why SERVPRO has teamed up with the American Red Cross by supporting the ARC Disaster Responder program, and in particular the Home Fire Preparedness Campaign.  As a Disaster Responder, SERVPRO pledges dollars and support in advance to help the ARC develop and distribute educational materials and respond immediately when they are needed. encourages all -area homeowners to follow these fire safety guidelines, developed by the ARC through their Home Fire Preparedness Campaign, to help minimize injury or loss of life due to a residential fire.

1. Install the right number of smoke alarms . Test them once a month and replace the batteries at least once a year.
2. Teach children what smoke alarms sound like and what to do when they hear one.
3. Ensure that all household members know two ways to escape from every room of your home and know the family meeting spot outside of your home.
4. Establish a family emergency communications plan and ensure all household members know who to contact if they cannot find one another.
5. Practice escaping from your home at least twice a year. Press the smoke alarm test button or yell “Fire” to alert everyone they must get out.
6. Make sure everyone knows how to call 9-1-1.
7. Teach household members to STOP, DROP and ROLL if their clothes should catch on fire.

“Fire prevention and fire safety planning are two very different things,” said Gregg. “Fire prevention planning helps control or eliminate the causes of a fire. Fire safety planning helps prevent injury and loss of life when a fire does break out. To protect your family and your property, you need both.”

 For more fire prevention and fire safety tips and information about fire and water damage restoration services, please visit our website. For more information on SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow, please contact Raeann Keeley-Pellerin at 603-893-9700 x33 or rpellerin@SERVPROoflawrence.com.

About SERVPRO® Founded in 1967, the SERVPRO® Franchise System is a leader and provider of fire and water cleanup and restoration services and mold mitigation and remediation. SERVPRO’s professional services network of more than 1,700 individually owned and operated Franchises responds to property damage emergencies ranging from small individual disasters to multi-million dollar large-loss events. Providing coverage in the United States and Canada, the SERVPRO® System has established relationships with major insurance companies and commercial clients, as well as individual homeowners.

Help Prevent your Salem and Plaistow Fire Business Damage

11/9/2016 (Permalink)

This is a picture of a fire damaged restaurant. A smoke detector can save your Salem/Plaistow business from disaster.

A business fire can be very stressful event for any property owner. Damage to personal belongings, contents of the building, and structure are just one concern. Timely mitigation is the key to controlling damage, while reducing downtime and recovery costs. Here at SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow, understand how disruptive fires can be for business owners, their tenants and even their customers. That is why we offer 24-hour emergency response. Our service response guidelines can help prevent fire damage from creating long-term problems. 

Smoke alarm facts:

• Install smoke alarms on every level of the business, including the basement if your building has one.
• If your business has a kitchen, smoke alarms should be installed generally 10 feet from any cooking appliance
• Test the smoke alarms once a month
• When you change your clocks twice a year, change the batteries in the alarms also
• Replace the device when it is ten years old

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your business after fire and smoke damage.  SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow will always treat you, your tenant, and all those involved with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?

Call Us Today – (603) 893-9700

Restoring Your Salem & Plaistow Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event

10/25/2016 (Permalink)

Commercial Water Damage Events Present Unique Challenges 

Flooding and water damage events at Salem & Plaistow commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

About SERVPRO of Salem & Plaistow

SERVPRO of Salem & Plaistow specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Previous Customers Give the Best Referrals

10/5/2016 (Permalink)

It is always great to have our customer's spread the word about what we do. And it is awesome to run into a former client at an outside event. Here in her blog, Ali talks about her great experience with us!

"And I have to note that this wedding was a big reunion for some of us vendors. Not only did I get to work with Matt from Fisher Video, who is my go-to when it comes to who to recommend for videography, we also saw one of our favorite DJs, Kibar, from Main Event Entertainment who was there as a wedding guest. (I even saw the wonderful Paul who led the team from Servepro who cleaned all the water out of my office after the Great Flood of 2015.)"

To read more, about Ali's work, please visit her blog.

Faster to your Salem/Plaistow area Water Damage Event

10/4/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow provides 24 hour fire and water damage restoration service in Salem and Plaistow area

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays.

Faster To Any Size Disaster

Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more.  SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 603-893-9700

Water Damage Timeline

Within Minutes

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

Hours 1 - 24:

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

48 Hours to 1 Week:

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

More Than 1 Week:

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

About SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow

SERVPRO^® of Salem/Plaistow specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO®’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Meet Our Crew

Company Certifications

Salem/Plaistow Residents:  Follow These Mold Safety Tips If You Suspect Mold

9/27/2016 (Permalink)

Be careful! Without proper training, you could be spreading mold throughout your home.

If you see visible mold, do not disturb it. You can inadvertently spread the mold infestation throughout your home. When mold is disturbed, the mold can release microscopic mold spores which become airborne and can circulate inside your home.

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow for mold remediation services.

What Not to Do:

• Don’t touch or disturb the mold.
• Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.
• Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself.
• Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.

About Our Mold Remediation Services

SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow specializes in mold cleanup and restoration, in fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business.  Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 603-893-9700

Our Highly Trained Restoration Specialists can restore your Salem/Plaistow Home Or Business

9/20/2016 (Permalink)

We are an IICRC Certified Firm

SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.

IICRC Certified Firms must

• Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.
• Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.
• Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.
• Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.
• Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.

The IICRC Develops The Standards For The Restoration Industry

The IICRC has been the driving force in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation. These IICRC standards take years to develop and require the coordination of experts in the field: manufacturers, industry organizations, insurance professionals, training schools, contractors, and public health professionals.

Every five years, the standards are reviewed and updated. The water damage restoration field changes rapidly with advancements in technology and science, and therefore the standards must evolve to keep pace.

About SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow

SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: from initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Meet Our Crew

Certifications

Salem/Plaistow Residents: We Specialize in Flooded Basement Cleanup and Restoration!

9/6/2016 (Permalink)

Photo of a flooded basement

A basement can flood at any time, although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall. Basements are inherently prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of a building and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level. There are a number of reasons why your Salem/Plaistow basement could flood, including: 

• A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe
• Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home
• Storm sewer backup
• Sanitary sewer backup
• Foundation drainage failure
• Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure
• And many more

Have Questions about Basement Flooding?

Call Today - 603-893-9700

If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can jeopardize your health and safety, and cause severe damage to your home’s structure. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.

The bottom line: a flooded basement can jeopardize your health, safety, and your home’s integrity. It’s worth making a call to SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow and let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. We have earned the trust of hundreds of homeowners, business owners, and property professionals.

We are Flooded Basement Specialists:

• We are Available 24 hours/7 days per week
• We’re a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies

• We Bill The Insurance Directly – One Less Thing For You To Worry About

• Our Technicians are Highly-Trained  in Water Restoration Techniques
• We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards
• Advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment

Basement Flooded? Call Us Today – We’re Ready To Help 603-893-9700

Does Your Salem/Plaistow Home Have A Mold Problem?

8/30/2016 (Permalink)

In Salem/Plaistow, mold can spread through a home in as little as 48 hours.

Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:

• Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
• Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.

• Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.

• Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.

• Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.

• Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – (603) 893-9700

Salem/Plaistow, NH 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

8/23/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow provides 24 hour fire and water damage restoration service in Andover and North Andover, MA

SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help

Call Today - 978-475-1199

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

• Your name and contact information
• Your insurance information (if applicable)

• The street address of the water-damaged home or business
• When did the flooding or water damage occur?
• What caused the water damage (if known)?

• Is there electricity available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO of The Andovers

SERVPRO of Salem/Plaistow specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Meet our crew 

Certifications

No job too Large or Small

8/16/2016 (Permalink)

Having teams and equipment that can respond and help each other is the benefit of being a company with franchises nationwide.

SERVPRO® has been on the scene for many large damages across the country. Having teams that can respond and help each other no matter where they are located is the benefit of being a company with franchises nationwide. Some of the events the company has been able to respond to are:

2011 North Dakota Floods

Helping over 400 residents, municipal buildings, hospitals, and business, SERVPRO® sent hundreds of crews to help

2011 Hurricane Irene/Tropical Storm Lee

The storms ranged from North Carolina to New England, and the Disaster Recovery Team®. About 1,000 crews took care of these states, helping return everything to normal.

2012 Hurricane Issac

This storm took on about five states and almost 100 franchises responded to help

2012 Hurricane Sandy

Sandy left her damage across 20 states and brought in 300 franchises, with 1000 crews coming across the country to help and sort through the damage.

2013 Alberta, Canada Floods

Over 120,000 residents were affected by these floods, and was the costliest storm to the country.

2013 Colorado Floods

The Disaster Recovery Team® responded to the towns surrounding the Colorado mountain communities to handle the damage from up to 17 inches of rain. 48 Franchises responded with 109 crews to take on the emergency response.

2014 Polar Vortex

39 States and 70% of the SERVPRO® franchises were affected by these lower than normal temperatures causing pipe breaks and more.

SERVPRO® of Salem/Plaistow is always ready to help, and call in the Disaster Recovery Team® where needed. When you are looking for help, give us a call.

Sudden Flooding can Cause Nightmares!

8/8/2016 (Permalink)

Thunder storms may be great to watch, but they can also be very dangerous

Flooding can happen anywhere, in any storm. It is important to be prepared for when it does. Many times, homeowners and business professionals alike do not know how to handle a flooding situation. Besides calling a professional company, here are some quick facts about flooding and safety tips to keep in mind.:

• Most common and widespread natural disaster
• Most dangerous type is flash flooding
• At least 25% of business close their doors to never reopen after a flood
• Do not walk or driving through moving water.
• If need be, abandon the car and move to higher ground
• Floodwaters may be contaminated by oil, gasoline, raw sewage or more, so avoid it
• If your home is affected by floodwaters, it is important that everything is disinfected.

It is always better to have a professional handle the situation. When in doubt call or visit our page for more information.

Safety information provided by ready.gov

Hurricane Tips to Help You Through

6/23/2016 (Permalink)

Thank you to businessweek.com for these quick hurricane tips

June is the start of Hurricane Season. Below are some tips to follow whether you own a home, RV, boat, car or all of them! You can see a storm coming by the change in color of the sky (often greenish), large hail, low-flying clouds and a roar like a freight train.

• It is best to have a plan in place regarding where you are going to go when a hurricane hits. While they may be intriguing to watch, the best place is NOT outside. Your basement or under a set of stairs are great places to wait out the storm. If this is not available, the bottom floor of any building will work.
• Keep your car indoors if possible. Tape up the windows and door with tarps and keep away from any objects that could damage the car if they were to fall on top of it.
• During an emergency, gas stations will often be closed, so always make sure you have at least half a tank of gas to get away instantly
• Have enough supplies on hand to wait out 72 hours, just in case help cannot arrive right away. These supplies can also be stored in the trunk (items like a first aid kit, bottled water, non-perishable foods, and medication can stay there at all times.)
• Make sure your car is in proper shape. Have a full tank of gas, wiper blades and tires are ready to go.
• Make sure your cell phone is charged and keep your charger with you.
• Avoid driving in deep waters
• For your boat, remove non-secure items, electronics, excess gear, valuable, and important documents.
• Make sure all openings are clear of debris
• Double all lines that are securing your boat to its securing space
• With your RV, do not drive it during the storm as it is more vulnerable to higher/stronger winds
• Make sure you have a full tank of gas, but empty holding tanks, turn off propane cylinders and cover the regulator.
• Make sure all documents are in a waterproof bag and with you at all times

Life can be unpredictable, but having plans in place help you with whatever may come. For more information, please check out these hurricane tips. As always, once the storm passes, contact your local SERVPRO to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

When Accidents happen....

6/14/2016 (Permalink)

Preparing an emergency contact list will help keep everyone involved in the know for who to contact!

For 136,053 people in 2014, their ordinary day turned tragic. Below are the top causes of death recorded according to the Injury facts 2016:

1.     Poisoning - gases, chemicals, prescription drug overdoes, and other substances helped this category overtake motor vehicle crashes in 2011.

2.     Motor Vehicle Crashes - impaired driving, distracted driving, speeding, and inexperience keep this category in the top 3 of top related accidental deaths. 

3.     Falls - while third on this list, it is actually the top leading cause of death in those 71 and older

4.     Choking and Suffocation - for all age groups, choking on food or suffocation of an infant falls into this category.

5.     Drowning - there are about 10 deaths per day from drowning. This is the number 1 cause of death in children age 1 to 4 due to them falling pools, tubs, or other bodies of water.

6.     Fires and Burns - As the sixth leading cause of death, working smoke detectors will help reduce the chance of death by alerting homeowners that there is a problem.

7.     Natural and Environmental Incidents - these events claim hundreds of lives per year. Learning about emergency preparedness and how to pack a helpful emergency kit. 

Know who to contact and what to do in case of any of this accidental emergencies. Want more information or an emergency at home contact sheet, please give us a call!

Follow national safety month trends by tagging #safe4life

Worry Less when Fire Strikes

5/2/2016 (Permalink)

When fire strikes your life, we make it "like it never even happened."

When a fire rips through your home or business, it can cause fear, anxiety, and uncertainty.

After the first responders have put out the fire, and the area is deemed safe, it is your ocal SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals are here to help. With rapid response from knowledgeable technicians, it is a relief to know that your home or business can be returned to normal as fast as possible.

NFPA states:

·         487,500 structure fires were reported in 2013 across the United States

·         These damages totaled 9.5 billion dollars in damage to property

·         One fire to a home or business was reported every 65 seconds

Don’t let the unthinkable cause stress or doubt for you. Call your SERVPRO® Professionals to make the damage seem “Like it never even happened.”

5 Types of Smoke/Soot Damage in Your Home

5/2/2016 (Permalink)

"Like it never even happened."

Top 5 Things When Your Basement is Flooded

5/2/2016 (Permalink)

"Like it never even happened."

A flood in your home is stressful and worrisome. Here are some top tips you can do in order to make the process smoother for all involved.

With these tips, there can be less secondary damage until help arrives!