Your Holidays Don’t Have to Go Up In Smoke: Fire Safety Through the Holidays

12/3/2024 (Permalink)

The last thing you want is a fire in your home or business this holiday season.

You have big plans this season. Holiday parties for business. Meals with friends. Gift-giving with family. For most Americans, this is one of the busiest times of year. With everything going on, the last thing you want is a fire in your home or business, especially when there are simple steps you can take to avoid them.

Here are some common fire hazards you should be aware of.

• Is your fireplace ready for Santa? Be sure your tree and any easily combustible decorations are a safe distance away; a dry Christmas tree is just what a spark or ember is looking for to ignite.
• Be conscious of your candles. While those little guys might not pack a big flame like a fireplace, they can do just as much damage if not supervised. Never leave a candle unattended. Be sure no tinsel or other hanging decorations can swing in the path of the flame. Guests, children, and pets may knock over a candle, so placing them in safe locations is another way to reduce the hazard.

• Check your Christmas lights. Your vintage lights and decorations have been in storage for a while. That time in boxes is the perfect opportunity for rodents to find them. Be sure to thoroughly inspect your treasures before displaying them. Any broken bulbs or exposed wiring is extremely dangerous and can start a blaze in the blink of an eye. Do not overload your outlet with too many lights.

• Don’t forget the turkey! Not only can burning dinner take you to a 24-hour diner for the holiday, but unknowingly leaving on an oven or stove can lead to a disaster in the kitchen.

The holiday season is a time of fun. But if a fire does occur in your home or business this season, it will be okay. SERVPRO of Henry and Randolph Counties can help you make it “Like it never even happened®.” Call us today. 765-575-8654

Flooding in the New Year

8/7/2024 (Permalink)

A client returned home to find flooding. "Paper, water, and a few of my tears flowed into the yard. It was a mess,” she said.

The New Year is supposed to be a time of joyful gatherings and happy times. A time of new beginnings. However, for one SERVPRO client, the new year did not begin smoothly.

A client oversees a property for her family. It included an old professional building that was full of her father’s equipment and paperwork. After a winter storm, she returned to find that frozen pipes had burst and water was actively flooding the building.

“When I opened the door, water rushed out. Paper, water, and a few of my tears flowed into the yard. It was a mess,” she said.

“At 4:30 pm that day, I called SERVPRO of Henry and Randolph Counties. Ray immediately answered the call. Ray and his team came and helped with the water removal. They pumped several truckloads of water out of the rooms of the building. Before they left at 7 pm, they also set up dehumidifiers and more than a dozen blowers and fans. All of this equipment stayed until the room was completely dry.”

The team at SERVPRO of Henry and Randolph Counties assisted as the client organized and categorized the contents of the office.

“SERVPRO® was with me every Monday from there on out for more than 8 weeks. We went through papers, equipment and so many other items. They even helped me to locate a small scrap of paper that had the combination to my father’s safe. It was a paper that could have easily been overlooked and thrown away with the mountains of trash, but the SERVPRO team found it amongst the mess.”

“The building is now empty but ready for the next stage of its life. So, for me, having SERVPRO [of Henry and Randolph Counties] come and help with the cleanup and the water removal, and just their support through the whole process, made the disaster not seem so insurmountable. I was able to handle the disaster because they were there with me.”

If you have a disaster happen in your home or business, SERVPRO of Henry and Randolph Counties can help you make it “Like it never even happened.” Call us today. 765-575-8654

Local Restoration Company ‘Restoring Hope’ Through Charity Golf Outing

5/10/2024 (Permalink)

John Mantor and Ray Dickey are dedicated to restoring the hope of Henry County.

In an effort to give back to the community, SERVPRO of Henry and Randolph Counties is hosting a charity golf outing through their newly founded non-profit organization, Restoring Hope.

The Heart Behind ‘Restoring Hope’

SERVPRO of Henry and Randolph Counties is not only dedicated to restoring the community's homes and businesses when disaster strikes, but they are also passionate about giving back. Owners John and Delmy Mantor, Operations Manager Ray Dickey, and the rest of the team are regularly involved in volunteer activities. and the company often sponsors community events. They are dedicated to restoring the hope of Henry County, which is why they named their newly formed charitable organization “Restoring Hope.”

“Our line of work, providing fire and water damage restoration and construction, means we serve people and businesses in times of distress. When we come on to the scene, we want to provide hope right away,” explained Operations Manager Ray Dickey. “Restoring Hope is a way to take this heart for service to the next level and provide hope beyond property restoration, but for our community as a whole.”

Honor A First Responder Golf Outing On June 12

Restoring Hope’s Honor a Responder golf outing, happening on Wednesday, June 12, at Memorial Park Golf Course will specifically benefit the First Responders Children's Foundation. This foundation’s mission is to help children and families who have been impacted by the loss or injury of a first responder. Additionally, they have a scholarship for high school seniors.

Kati McDaniel, Franchise Development Manager for the local SERVPRO, is leading the efforts of Restoring Hope and the Honor a First Responder golf outing. She is currently seeking sponsors, with levels ranging at $100-$1,000. She is also registering golf teams and individual golfers. The cost for a team of four is $300, and the cost for an individual is $75. 

“SERVPRO is a second responder to disasters, which is why we have so much respect for the first responders in our community and all that they do,” Kati shared. “We're going to present an award to the first responder of the year (as voted by their peers) at the golf outing as a small token of our appreciation.”

Find more information about sponsoring or participating in the Honor a First Responder golf outing on the SERVPRO of Henry and Randolph Counties Facebook page, by sending an email to info@restoringhopeinc.org or by calling (765) 575-8654.

Home cooking fire risk peaks on Thanksgiving Day

12/4/2023 (Permalink)

The holiday season is a time when home cooking activities are at their peak. Unfortunately, all this cooking leads to an increase in kitchen fires

The holiday season is almost here, and it is a time when home cooking activities are at their peak. Unfortunately, all this cooking leads to a related peak in cooking fires, says Jonathan Mantor of SERVPRO of Henry and Randolph Counties.

Cooking fires are responsible for nearly half (49 percent) of all home fires, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

“To help keep your holidays from, literally, going up in smoke, it’s critical to know and use safe cooking practices,” says Mantor.

Keep your cooking area clean and keep anything that can burn (dish towels, oven mitts, packaging) at least three feet away from cooking equipment.

Keep in mind that the leading contributing factor to cooking fires and to fire deaths overall is unattended cooking, so plan to be at home and in or near the kitchen at all times when cooking.

“For those who use a turkey fryer to cook their Thanksgiving bird,” says Mantor, “it’s important to note that more than two-thirds of home cooking fires begin with the ignition of cooking materials, including food, fat, and grease. The NFPA strongly discourages the use of these fryers. They use large amounts of oil at high temperatures, which can lead fire. If you do use one, follow all placement, use, and safety instructions carefully.”

If the unexpected does happen, SERVPRO of Henry and Randolph Counties 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 Henry and Randolph Counties, please contact Jonathan Mantor at (765) 575-8654 or sp9675@att.net. For more information on SERVPRO, please visit www.SERVPRO.com.

Managing Indiana Storm Damage

8/8/2023 (Permalink)

Central Indiana is no stranger to storms.

Central Indiana is no stranger to storms. This summer has seen its fair share of storms and damage across the state. Storms are more common in the summer and fall due to how the atmosphere works. Warmer temperatures in the summer and fall create more instability in the atmosphere, which can lead to the formation of thunderstorms. The jet stream is typically located further north in the summer and fall, which can also lead to the formation of thunderstorms.

Naturally, Indiana will experience storms throughout the summer and fall, so keep these tips in mind to manage storm damage:

• Stay safe. The first step is to stay safe. If there is a storm warning, stay indoors and away from windows. If you are caught outside, seek shelter immediately.
• Check for damage. Once the storm has passed, check for damage to your home or property. If you see any damage, call SERVPRO to assess the situation.
• Remove debris. Remove any debris from your property, such as fallen trees or branches. Be careful when removing debris, as it may be heavy or sharp.
• Secure loose objects. Secure any loose objects on your property, such as patio furniture or lawn ornaments. Doing so will help to prevent them from becoming projectiles during high winds.
• Check your roof. Check your roof for any damage, such as missing shingles or leaks. If you see any damage, call a professional to repair it.
• Check your water supply. Check your water supply for any leaks or damage. If you see any damage, call a professional to repair it.
• Check your food supply. Check your food supply for any spoilage. If you have any food that has spoiled, throw it away.
• Be patient. It may take time to recover from a storm. Take things one step at a time, and don't try to do too much too soon.

These are just a few tips for storm restoration. If you have any questions or need storm damage repair, please contact us at SERVPRO® of Henry and Randolph Counties at 765-575-8654.

Different Types of Water Damage

8/8/2023 (Permalink)

Addressing water damage immediately is essential to prevent further damage and protect your health.

Water damage can cause problems like mold, structural damage, and electrical problems. Addressing water damage immediately is essential to prevent further damage and protect your health.

If you have water damage in your home or business, it is essential to contact a professional water damage restoration company to assess the damage and begin the restoration process. At SERVPRO®, we are fast to respond and professionally trained to identify the source of the water damage and where it has occurred.

Here are the different types of water damage:

• Flooding: This is the most common type of water damage. It can be caused by heavy rains, storms, or burst pipes. Flooding can cause extensive damage to your home or business.
• Leaks: Leaks can occur in any part of your home or business. They can be caused by various things, such as a leaky pipe, roof damage, or a broken appliance. Leaks can cause significant damage if they are not repaired promptly.
• Storm damage: Storms can cause flooding, leaks, and structural damage.
• Crawl space flooding: Crawl spaces are often damp and humid, creating the perfect environment for mold to grow. If your crawl space floods, it is crucial to have it cleaned and dried out as soon as possible to prevent mold growth.
• Standing water: Standing water can cause a lot of damage to your home or business. It can lead to mold growth, structural damage, and electrical problems. Removing it as soon as possible is vital if you have standing water.
• Condensation: This type of water damage occurs when moisture builds up, usually due to poor ventilation or high humidity levels.

Here are some tips to prevent water damage:

• Inspect your home or business regularly for leaks, especially around windows, doors, and pipes.
• Install a sump pump in your basement or crawl space.
• Have your roof inspected regularly.
• Trim trees and bushes away from your home or business.
• Install gutters and downspouts.
• Keep your gutters clean and free of debris.
• Have your home's plumbing inspected regularly.

Following these suggestions, you can avoid water damage in your home or business. SERVPRO of Henry and Randolph Counties is here to assist you and make it "Like it never even happened." If you have water damage, please contact SERVPRO at (765) 575-8654.

The Dangers of Fire, Smoke and Soot

8/8/2023 (Permalink)

Fire, smoke, and soot damage can cause many problems for a home.

Fire, smoke, and soot damage can cause many problems for a home. Living in a home after a fire can be unsafe. Smoke and soot can cause respiratory problems for people living in the home and damage the home or business and its belongings.

Here are types of damage fire, smoke, and soot can cause to a home:

• Fire damage: Fire can damage the structure of a house. This can include damage to the walls, floors, roof, and other structural components. Fire can cause the walls to collapse, the roof to cave in, and the floor to buckle. This can make the house unsafe to live in and may require extensive repairs or even rebuilding.
• Smoke damage: Fire smoke damage is a severe problem that can significantly impact your health and home. Smoke can cause respiratory problems, such as difficulty breathing, coughing, and wheezing. It can damage your belongings, such as furniture, clothing, and electronics. Smoke can stain and discolor these items, making them brittle and prone to breaking - it can also discolor and stain the home’s walls, floors, and ceilings.
• Soot damage: Soot particles are small, airborne, and can cause health problems and damage surfaces. Soot can enter the lungs, causing respiratory problems like bronchitis. It can also damage your home's belongings, staining walls and other surfaces.

At SERVPRO®, our Fire & Smoke Restoration Technicians, Odor Control Technicians, and Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning Technicians are specially trained to clean and restore your home to its previous condition.

If your home has been damaged by fire, smoke, or soot, it must be professionally cleaned and repaired to help protect your health and the value of your home. SERVPRO of Henry and Randolph Counties can help. They will restore your home to its preloss condition, making it "Like it never even happened." Call them today at 765-575-8654.

Is Your Company Ready For An Emergency?

8/8/2023 (Permalink)

Having a plan for emergencies is crucial, especially in a commercial setting where there are many people involved.

Everyone at your office knows where the break room is, but do they know where the fuse box is? Or the water shut-off? Or the fire extinguishers? Having a plan for emergencies is crucial, especially in a commercial setting where there are many people involved.

At SERVPRO® of Henry and Randolph Counties, we make it simple to create an Emergency Readiness Profile. This streamlined system starts with a SERVPRO technician coming to your business for a scheduled appointment to review your company’s facilities. The technician will locate the key aspects of your building and utilities so that if you encounter a disaster, your team will be ready.

After this appointment, SERVPRO will create an Emergency Readiness Profile and bring it to you in a bright green folder. This binder will be a one-stop place for your team to find what they need in case of an emergency.

SERVPRO specializes in making fire, water, and storm damage "Like it never even happened." We take care of residential and commercial properties like it was our own.

Let’s get started on your Emergency Readiness Profile. Contact us today for an appointment!

Why Choose a Locally Owned Restoration Company?

8/8/2023 (Permalink)

When your home or business is damaged by fire, water, or a storm, it's important to choose a restoration company you can trust.

When your home or business is damaged by fire, water, or a storm, it's important to choose a restoration company you can trust. A locally owned restoration company like SERVPRO of Henry and Randolph Counties can provide you with several advantages.

Personalized service. When you work with SERVPRO® of Henry and Randolph Counties, you'll be working with a team of people who are familiar with your community and your needs. They will take the time to understand your situation and customize services to your specific needs.

Quicker response time. Your SERVPRO is Faster to any size disaster™. We can send a team to your property right away, which can help to minimize the damage from water, fire, or a storm.

Better understanding of local building codes. We are familiar with the local building codes and permitting process. This means we can help you to get your property back to its preloss condition in a way that complies with the law.

More invested in the community. We care about this community and give back through charitable donations and volunteer work. When you work with SERVPRO, you are supporting a business that cares about where you live. It’s a choice you can feel good about.

If you're ever faced with water, fire, or storm damage, don't hesitate to contact SERVPRO of Henry and Randolph Counties. They'll be able to help you make it "Like it never even happened" as quickly as possible.

Making Time to Protect your Home

9/6/2022 (Permalink)

Protect your home and limit your chances of fire by making sure these checks are always completed before leaving.

These days life is crazier and more chaotic than ever. We are often rushing out the door, trying our best to manage work, kids, extra-curricular activities, and our homes. In the hustle and bustle of life, accidents can and do happen - lights get left on, candles stay lit, or the oven doesn't get turned off.

Although some accidents can’t be avoided, keeping a checklist in your home can be incredibly useful when it comes to remembering certain important (and hazardous if forgotten) items.

Protect your home and limit your chances of a fire by making sure the following is always completed before leaving:

• Make sure the oven is turned off
• Turn off/Unplug heating pads
• Blow out any lit candles
• Turn off any space heaters being used
• Turn off/Unplug hair dryers, straighteners, curling irons, and other hair styling tools
• Make sure electrical cords are not overloaded and unplug them if necessary

In addition to the above checklist, maintaining properly working smoke detectors is incredibly important.

Life is busier than ever. That is why the team at SERVPRO of Henry and Randolph Counties wants to help ensure your home stays safe and protected. However, some tragedies are unavoidable. If you find yourself dealing with a house fire, SERVPRO can help. Give them a call at 765-575-8564. With their emergency services, experience, and work ethic, you’ll be happy to have them by your side.