Remodeling myths

6/22/2021 (Permalink)

Reality television has a good way of making home remodeling look fast, easy, and affordable. However, it can be much grittier than portrayed. Most people do not understand the ins and outs of renovation and are sometimes skeptical to hire a professional, for the fear of being ripped off. Here are some myths that people often believe.

Doing the renovation yourself will save you money – Home renovation is not always as simple as replacing carpet or torn wallpaper. Using a trusted professional can actually save you time and money. Not only can it prevent mistakes, they can provide you with a detailed written estimate, timeline, and calendar of events.

Renovations cause havoc to the entire house and yard – Professional renovators understand how to work in a limited space. Depending on the scope of work, most families remain in their home during the remodeling process. A good contractor will clean up after each day and maintain a habitable living space for you and your family.

A permit is not needed to remodel – You may need a permit and/or HOA approval before any construction begins. Projects that will not often need a permit would be paining, decorating, new flooring, installing carpet and simple additions throughout; however, projects such as demolishing a part of the building, new / altered plumbing and heating systems, changing window and door size , may often require a permit.

The Front Line of Wildfires

6/16/2021 (Permalink)

In 2016, 60,932 human-caused wildfires burned nearly 4 million acres.

From prevention to containment, learn about the many types of wildland firefighters protecting our nation from the ravages of unwanted wildfires.

• Wildfire Prevention Specialists/Program Managers

Implement plans with partners to promote wildfire prevention within their region, state, forest, or community.

• Wildfire Prevention & Patrol Specialists

Provide education in the classroom and community, write warnings for violations that may cause fires, perform initial attack on new fires, and investigate fires to determine their cause.

• Lookouts

Though used less often today due to other forms of aerial detection, lookouts are stationed in towers in remote areas or during times of heavy lightning to observe, plot and report locations of fires.

Lookouts spend days, weeks or months alone in some of the wildest, most remote places in the country. Life is rustic in a fire tower, but lookouts have provided an invaluable service for 100 years.

• Fire Prevention & Education Teams

Skilled and mobile personnel who enhance local wildfire prevention activities where risk is elevated. They reduce unwanted human-caused fire ignitions through prevention assessments and education.

• Fire Scientists

Study environmental conditions, fire behavior, and the effects of fire. They also provide predictive services and offer management options before, during and after wildfires and prescribed fires.

• Fuels Specialists

Fuels specialists and prescribed fire managers develop and implement plans for maintaining healthy ecosystems where fire plays a necessary role. Using the best available science, specialists determine treatments and timing, which can include mechanically removing vegetation or prescribed burning during different times of the year.

• Prescribed Fire Managers

Prescribed fire managers, along with fuels specialists, develop plans and implement prescribed fires to maintain healthy ecosystems where fire plays a necessary role.

• Fire Managers

With years of extensive training and experience, fire managers analyze wildfires to determine a suppression strategy and assemble the firefighters and equipment needed to implement it.

• Handcrews

These crews, of about 20 firefighters, are the foundation of wildland firefighting. They often work 12-hour shifts using hand tools to create the fireline, a perimeter cleared of flammable materials.

They also eliminate hotspots, monitor unburned areas to make sure sparks don’t jump the line, and “mop up” contained areas of the fire by making sure it is completely extinguished

• Dozer/Tractor Plow Crews

These crews, which range in size from three to five firefighters, operate heavy equipment such as bulldozers and tractor plows to indirectly attack wildfires by clearing vegetation and constructing firebreaks around the perimeter of the fire.

• Hotshot Crews

The most experienced handcrews, hotshots meet stringent qualifications and work in some of the roughest, most remote terrains, on the most complex fires. They are highly mobile and self-sufficient.

• Helitack Crews

Helitack crews are specially trained to use helicopters to fight wildfires. They sometimes even rappel from helicopters to reach fire in remote areas quickly. They are often first to reach a wildfire.

• Smokejumpers

Since 1940, highly skilled and physically fit smokejumpers have parachuted to wildfires that can’t otherwise be reached. They are often supported by cargo drops of food, water and firefighting gear.

• Engine Crews

Engine crews, which range in size from three to five firefighters, work with fire engines that carry 250 to 750 gallons of water and several hundred feet of hose to directly attack wildfires.

• Incident Management Teams

Fire experts whose main responsibility is to develop and implement strategies to fight wildfires by managing the equipment, transportation and other goods and services wildland firefighters need.

The importance of Professional Carpet Cleaning

6/16/2021 (Permalink)

The dirtiness and discoloration in your carpet may sometimes looks obvious; however, at other times, a clean looking carpet can conceal unseen dirt, grime, soil, dust and pet dander. Regular traffic buries this dust and dirt deeply into the carpet fibers, where it can become indiscernible, release unpleasant odors, and harm your air quality. While regular vacuuming might remove some of the dust and dirt, most standard vacuums lack the power to extract deeply embedded dirt. SERVPRO of Del Mar has the expertise to provide a deeper clean than your basic house cleaning service. Our residential cleaning services will ease the burden of the constant maintenance cleaning of your home, but will also create a safe, clean and comfortable living environment for you and your family. SERVPRO will ensure that your carpet remains free from all of the unnoticeable dirt and grime. For a free quote, contact us at (858) 748-7378.

Disaster Preparedness for a business

12/22/2020 (Permalink)

Did you know that 40% of small businesses will go out of business after a disaster? More often than not, a business owner is so occupied on the opening and upkeep of the business; they don’t find much necessity in focusing on unlikely and uncontrollable disasters that could potentially affect their business. Due to this, 40% of these small businesses will not open their doors after an emergency. With the life changing impacts that a disaster can have on a business, it is important to be prepared in this situation. Having a disaster preparedness plan can’t prevent the disaster; however, it can increase the likelihood of your company opening back up, after the disaster occurs. Some things you can do to be prepared is keeping company records on a network, as well as hard copies. In the case the hard copies get damaged, you will still be able to access them on a network. Moreover, having a communication plan to employees, vendors, and customers is smart. It’s best to plan for worst case scenario disasters. If your physical location is out of commission, you should have a separate plan to address all your customers, vendors, and employees. Third, consider a plan to keep operations running during the repair process. Make sure all your employees are aware and in the loop; therefore they can help and make sure they are up to par with the operations. Fourth, consider potential threat. Depending where you live, you may face different threats. Analyze different situations and plan if X were to go wrong, we can do Y. Lastly, routinely practice drills. Train your crew on how to use the preparedness plan effectively. Each person should know their specific responsibilities and roles, and be trained for it. Much like fire drills, implement the preparedness plan. Though it may seem like a waste of time, its better to be prepared than to not be.

Failure to Prepare is Preparing to Fail!

6/23/2020 (Permalink)

There are different alerts for floods, depending on the type of and immediacy of the potential danger. Educate your family and yourself about your community's flood warnings:

• Flood watches are issued when rain is heavy enough to cause rivers to overflow.

• Flood warnings describe the severity of the situation and indicate when and where the flood will begin.

• Flash flood watches are issued when heavy rain is occurring or is expected to occur.

• Flash flood warnings are issued when flooding is occurring suddenly. In the event of flash flooding in your area, move immediately to high ground.

Take practical measures to protect yourself, your family and your property

Preparedness is paramount when it comes to encroaching floodwaters. Here are precautionary steps to take well before the threat of a flood is upon you.

• Have an evacuation plan for your family in case the authorities officially evacuate your area. If you have pets, create an evacuation plan for them, too and make sure to develop a "what if" process for communication in case family members become separated.

• Maintain a supply of emergency provisions, such as flashlights, batteries, a battery-operated radio, a first aid kit, medication, sturdy shoes, emergency food and water, cash and credit cards.

• Maintain a supply of building materials and tools so you can fortify your house from a storm. These would include plywood, plastic sheeting, nails, hammer, shovels and sandbags.

• Install a backwater prevention valve, so floodwater doesn't back up into your sewer drains.

• Make a home inventory listing all of your possessions to help facilitate the claim filing process if your belongings are damaged or destroyed.

• Locate switches for gas, electricity and water and know how to shut them off. In the event of an evacuation, you'll want to turn these off before you leave.

• Purchase flood insurance. Your standard homeowners policy doesn't include flood insurance, so if your area is at risk, you may want to consider getting it through the National Flood Insurance Program. Know that there is a 30-day waiting period before flood insurance takes effect, so don't wait.

For more preparedness tips, handy checklists (including ones you can personalize yourself) and evacuation planning advice to cover a variety of disasters, get the I.I.I.’s Know Your Plan app. It's a great tool to help get you and your family—including pets—organized and ready to act more quickly if an emergency strikes.

Wind-Storm Damage Tips

6/23/2020 (Permalink)

Severe weather is always on everyone’s radar, particularly this time of the year. With severe weather come strong winds, thunderstorms and even hail.  No matter the season, it does not hurt to be aware of the damage that high winds can cause to your home or business.  Prevention is easy.

Keep outdoor items from becoming projectile weaponry

High winds, tornadoes, and hurricanes can make something as simple as a trashcan or child’s toy into an airborne rocket!  When you hear of wind and storm warnings, make sure to bring in anything that could be picked up and blown into vulnerable areas of your home or business – such as windows or doors.  Outdoor building such as storage sheds should also be anchored appropriately to the ground.

Reinforce vulnerable areas

Garage doors are particularly susceptible to wind damage.  High winds, tornadoes, and hurricanes can damage or blow them, creating a high pressure situation which can damage the roof as well.  Strengthen the door by using braces across the back or replace with a stronger door and tracks.  (Note – any alterations should be done by an professional.)

Pay attention to your trees and landscaping

Trees can cause debris that can damage your home in a windstorm.  Maintain trees having them trimmed and debris raked and disposed of regularly to help minimize damage from a storm.

Like Benjamin Franklin said , “By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail.”

Restoring Your Poway / Rancho Bernardo Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event

6/17/2020 (Permalink)

Commercial Water Damage Events Present Unique Challenges

Flooding and water damage events at Poway / Rancho Bernardo commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we are 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 Poway / Rancho Bernardo

SERVPRO of Poway / Rancho Bernardo 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.

Document Drying and Restoration

6/17/2020 (Permalink)

In the aftermath of disaster, some of your most valued contents—documents, photographs, and books—could be lost forever. As a leader in the restoration industry, SERVPRO knows that timely mitigation is the key to recovering damaged possessions. With years of experience and state-of-the-art technology, SERVPRO’s restoration professionals will help you recover your paper goods before it is too late.

Our Document Restoration Facility:

• Innovative: we use the latest vacuum freeze-drying method, as well as gamma irradiation technology for sterilizing
• Secure: managed by HIPPA Master-certified technicians, under 24/7 surveillance
• Digital: we use a computerized inventory system for digitizing your documents
• Flexible capacity - we can accommodate large commercial losses or small residential jobs
• Full Service: we offer a range of services including drying, cleaning/disinfecting, re-jacketing, digitizing, and deodorization

Need your valuable documents restored? Call Today – 858-748-7378

Our Technology

Then SERVPRO document restoration team uses innovate vacuum freeze-drying techniques; in fact, we use the same freeze-drying methods used by the Library of Congress to dry valuable historic documents and books. Our vacuum freeze-drying process is the only method approved by the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) and the General Services Administration (GSA).

Types of content:

• paper documents
• books and magazines
• manuscripts and files
• photographs, films, negatives, and microfiche
• x-rays
• blueprints and maps
• parchment

Document Cleaning and Disinfecting

In many water damage situations, like sewage or flood water, documents will be exposed to bacteria, viruses, pesticides, or other harmful chemicals. Our team uses a gamma irradiation process to safely and effectively sterilize your documents.

Digitizing Services

In the digital age, converting your paper files and photos to digital formats can have an invaluable impact on your business or home. With the help of SERVPRO’s restoration professionals to digitize your documents, you can save storage space and have access to your records at the touch of a button. And perhaps most important of all, you’ll have digital copies of your valuable documents that can’t be lost in a flood or fire.

Experience water damage? Here is what to do until help arrives!

6/17/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage from clean water

 Do:

• Shut off the source of water if possible or contact a qualified party to stop the water source.
• Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building when access to the power distribution panel 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 carpet.
• Remove to a safe, dry place any paintings, art objects, computers, documents, and other materials that are valuable or sensitive to moisture.
• Use wooden clothespins to keep furniture skirting off damp floors.
• Hang draperies with coated hangers to avoid contact with wet carpeting or floors.
• Hang furs and leather good to dry separately at room temperature.

Don’t:

• Enter rooms with standing water where electrical shock hazards may exist.
• Enter affected areas if electrical outlets, switches, circuit breakers or electrical equipment are exposed to water. Always avoid electrical shock hazards.
• Leave books, newspapers, magazines, or other colored items on wet carpets or floor 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.

Water damage from contaminated water

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 damaged or wet areas.
• Turn on the 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.

Defensible Space Around Your Home

6/15/2020 (Permalink)

Did you know that the County of San Diego amended an ordinance that requires residents to keep their property free of fire hazards. Residents comply by creating a “Defensible space” around their homes. This includes (but is not limited to) mowing and properly maintaining lawn and weeds, removing ignitable trees and shrubs, stacking firewood away from the home and ensuring that the home’s address is visible to all emergency vehicles.

WHAT ELSE SHOULD I DO TO PROTECT MY PROPERTY AGAINST FIRE?

• Fluctuate the height of plants and space them out adequately. (Taller plants should be spaced wider apart than the shorter ones)
• Eliminate any tree limbs within 10 feet of your chimney.
• Work with your neighbors to clear shared areas between houses.
• Avoid planting trees under or near electrical lines.
• If you have a heavily wooded area on your property, removing dead, weak or diseased trees may improve growing conditions.
• Don’t forget to legally dispose of all your vegetation. (For inquiring about green waste recycling, you may contact your local landfill)
• Stack firewood and scrap wood piles at least 50 feet from any structure and clear away any combustible vegetation within 10 feet of the piles. (There have been instances when firefighters have ‘saved’ a home and moved on, only for wood piles to catch fire.)
• Check and clean your roofs and gutters on all structures several times annually to remove debris that can easily ignite from a spark.

Smoke Behavior

6/15/2020 (Permalink)

Fire losses can be difficult because the behavior of smoke can be unique. That is why it is important to have trained technicians at your home; and SERVPRO professionals know their smoke!

Different types of smoke

• Wet smoke – Plastic and rubbers – low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.
• Dry smoke – Paper and wood – Fast burning, high temperatures, and heat rises thus making the smoke rise.
• Protein fire residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire – Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor.
• Fuel Oil Soot – Furnace Puff Backs – While ‘puff backs’ can create havoc for you, SERVPRO can in most cases restore the contents and structure quickly.
• Other types – Tear gas, fingerprint powder and fire extinguisher residue – Special loss situations require special care. Here at SERVPRO, we are trained to handle your toughest losses.

Pet Disaster Preparedness

6/15/2020 (Permalink)

Emergencies come in many forms. It may require small changes, such as a brief absence from your home, to much larger changes, such as permanent evacuations. Each type of disaster requires different measures to keep your pets safe. Being prepared is the best thing you can do in these situations!

Some Pet Disaster preparedness options include –

• Creating a buddy system with your neighbors. In case of an emergency, you will have a trusted neighbor who can check on your animals.
• Identify shelters or pet friendly hotels that will accept pets, as not all of them do.
• Locate a veterinarian or animal hospital in the area where you may be seeking temporary shelter, in case medical care is needed for your pets.
• Have your pet microchipped and make sure that you not only keep your address and phone number up-to-date, but that you also include contact info for an emergency contact outside of your immediate area.
• If you are unable to return to your home right away, you may need to board your pet. Find out where pet boarding facilities are located.
• Most boarding kennels, veterinarians and animal shelters will need your pet's medical records to make sure all vaccinations are current.

Remember – By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail. Always make sure you have an Emergency plan on hand, even for your pets!

Got Mold ?!

6/12/2020 (Permalink)

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

FROM THE ORDINARY – There has been over 100,000 kinds of fungi identified. Though fungi can produce some very useful results; such as yeast – which is used in preparing breads and other baked goods; other forms can be very harmful.

TO THE UNHEALTHY – Intrusion of water into your home or business can result in mold growth. If the humidity and moisture levels in a water – damaged environment are not promptly returned to normal, mold spores may grow and multiply. Excessive mold growth can lead to indoor environmental conditions that pose a health threat.

TAKE PRECAUTIONS – SERVPRO Professionals handle water damages every day and know prompt action is required to prevent mold. If you think you might have a mold problem, call 858-587-1722 and we will be happy to help!

Post Construction

6/12/2020 (Permalink)

Structural reliability, resources, manual labor, safety, customer satisfaction, and deadlines – the list goes on and on when building a commercial facility. Let us help you meet your deadlines by providing thorough post – construction services in a timely manner.

POST CONSTRUCTION CLEANING – Once the floors are down and drywall is up, it is time to remove all the debris and dirt in preparation to laying the carpet, painting and decorating.

DEHUMIDIFICATION & DRYING – During the construction phase, a building can trap moisture. Excessive moisture can result in mold growth. If you think one of your projects has a moisture issue- please don’t hesitate to reach out to us, to provide you with the help you need to eliminate moisture and prevent the potential for mold growth.

FINAL CLEANING – You will want the facility to look its best when the doors open. You can always count on your SERVPRO crew to provide cleaning services to give the building that extra shine.

Poway / Rancho Bernardo 24-hour Water Damage Experts

6/10/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Poway / Rancho Bernardo 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 - (858)748-7378

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 Poway / Rancho Bernardo 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 Poway / Rancho Bernardo

SERVPRO of Poway / Rancho Bernardo 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.

Storm Damage Restoration

5/20/2020 (Permalink)

Vicious weather, such as high winds and heavy rain can cause mayhem on building structures and greenery. Heavy winds can loosen or damage the shingles and tiles on the roof, which would result in moisture, such as rain and snow, to permeate into the protective exterior of the roof. This would eventually lead to wood swelling and probable mold.  Because this outcome could contribute to a collapsing ceiling, and further issues – having a storm damage restoration company service you in this situation would be a great option. If contacted in a timely manner, SERVPRO can rescue your building from greater structural issues and restore it to its former condition. SERVPRO of Poway / Rancho Bernardo is locally owned and operated, so we’re already close by and ready to respond immediately when you need us. We’re also part of a national network of over 1,700 Franchises, which gives us access to more resources for larger cleaning or restoration projects or major storm scenarios.

Biohazard Job

5/20/2020 (Permalink)

Sewage contains both water and waste products which can include human wastes, mineral salts, and garbage; both organic and inorganic matter. Organic material decomposes quickly and discharges odorous gases that could be perilous to one’s health. This is particularly the case when coming from human waste, as it often contains disease-causing pathogens, which is why the fast and complete elimination of sewage is critical after any backup. Sewage water is considered Category 3, or black water; and while it is not transmitted through the air, contact with skin can result in rashes and infections. Moreover, if you mistakenly touch your nose, eyes, or mouth, it is likely you may get sick. In the case a sewage backup happens in your home, it is often best and safer to call the professionals. Our specially trained teams can carefully and effectively extract any standing water and sewage, assess the damage and complete a comprehensive remediation plan.

Moving out – Tips for an easy move

5/20/2020 (Permalink)

Buying and selling a home can be a hectic process. Many people often say it’s one of the most stressful life experiences. Not only do you have to do the hard labor work of physically moving all your belongings, but your life doesn’t stop when the time comes. Between getting things in order, changing school systems, potentially going through a simultaneous career adjustment – it can present an abundant amount of work and stress.  

Purge before you pack – Before you begin packing, do a walk through and rid anything that you do not need. You can make separate piles for any unwanted items – donate, trash and sale. If you do it early enough, you can even have a yard sale.

Start packing things you don’t use – In order to prevent waiting until the last minute to begin packing, you can start a few weeks ahead of time and pack items that you rarely use. This allows you to get packing done early, but not miss out on any of your necessities.

Bundle your hangers – Re hanging clothes can be a pain and very tedious. Try and keep most, if not all, of your clothes on hangers and group them up. Every group of 10 or so, can rubber banded together, and you can use a trash bag as a garment bag to hold them.

Pack tight – Pack the boxes as tight as you can and prevent leaving any open space. Bundle breakable items and any empty space in the box, stuff with packing paper or towels.

Label boxes and rooms – To make unpacking easier, label the box with what’s inside the box, and what room of the house it belongs to. It will make it much smoother when it comes time to unpack and organize everything into your new home.

Take photos – If you want to mimic how you have things set up, or how cords are connected, take pictures. It will give you a good reference when it comes time to decorate or plug your sound system into the television.

Commercial Drapery and Blind Cleaning

5/20/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO excels at cleaning fine fabrics and intricate pieces using wet and dry cleaning methods. We inspect and test fabrics to determine which of our systems five cleaning methods is suited best to your fabrics. A good rule of thumb is to clean drapes approximately every 2 years. Though the average person may think they only need to be cleaned with they’re dirty, depending on your HVAC system, whether or not smokers reside in the house, and other factors – drapes may not show soil for up to six years. The oily atmospheric soil will gradually cause the fabric to deteriorate. Often, direct sunlight is unjustly blamed for this. The life of your draperies can potentially be tripled by getting them professionally cleaned; which is relatively inexpensive compared to the cost of replacing them.

Decluttering and spring cleaning your office

5/20/2020 (Permalink)

Spring time has become a fundamental time of year to clean and declutter. Not only your residence, but your place of business too. The cold winter months keeps everyone cooped up inside and clutter starts to grow. Not only will it make the work environment better, a clean and welcoming environment helps to attract more clients. If you are not sure where to begin with decluttering and cleaning – here is a list you can start from.

Windows – Interior and exterior. It’s so simple, yet crucial as it can make a huge difference.

Landscaping – This is the exterior presentation of your business. Make sure it stays groomed and prevent waiting for the plants to get out of control, before taking care of it. Additionally, it is a good opportunity to plant some flowers and add a little bit of color.

HVAC – Its best to test the system every now and then to ensure it is working correctly. Additionally, due to the fact they are not often cleaned regularly – it can cause pest infestations in the ducts, or mold problems. Moreover, it removes all the dust and debris and increases the air quality.

Flooring and Carpets – As people come in and wipe their feet on the carpet, dirt begins to pile up. Though you may not always be able to see how dirty the carpet is, it is important to maintain it so no spots become stains.

Reorganization – Make sure to file away all of last year’s things that you may no longer need. Organize closets and storage areas that do not get tended too throughout the year. You can even de-clutter the desk drawers and computers.

Faster to your Poway/ Rancho Bernardo Water Damage Event

5/19/2020 (Permalink)

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Poway/ Rancho Bernardo 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 Poway/ Rancho Bernardo  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 – 858-748-7378

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 Poway/ Rancho Bernardo 

SERVPRO of Poway/ Rancho Bernardo 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.

SERVPRO's Infectious Disease Precautions

5/18/2020 (Permalink)

It is important to us that our customers know the steps SERVPRO of Poway/ Rancho Bernardo is taking to reduce the risk of team member exposure to the virus.  These precautionary steps we have taken as a company include:

• All tools and equipment coming into your property have been cleaned and disinfected.
• All workers wear personal protective equipment to protect themselves while performing work.
• We’ve all been provided with training to safely work in contaminated environments.
• We’ve all been provided with training to identify coronavirus symptoms and carefully monitor ourselves and our co-workers.
• We have stringent safety and health policies and procedures; and we continually strive to follow and improve our safe work practices.

Overall, we are taking the appropriate measures to ensure we don’t cross contaminate our customers, our co-workers, or our families.  We cannot make any guarantees that the virus could not enter your property, but we can tell you that we have taken every possible measure to protect customers and team members alike.

Whether it is a water loss, fire damage, or a cleaning request, please know that SERVPRO of Poway/ Rancho Bernardo is still here for the entire Poway/ Rancho Bernardo community 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Summertime Safety

6/27/2019 (Permalink)

Summer’s warm weather can be fatal. Some people are more at risk of developing a heat-related illness; including, but not limited to, adults age 65 and older, those with chronic medical conditions, people who work outside, infants, children and athletes. Here are 10 tips to help keep you safe this summer!

• Never leave children or pets in your vehicle. The inside temperature of a car can escalate quickly, resulting in death.
• Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water and avoid drinks with caffeine and alcohol.
• If you do not have AC, seek relief. If you or someone you know does not have air conditioning, try visiting local libraries, theaters, malls, etc., during the warmest part(s) of the day.
• Make sure you are also checking on family, friends, or neighbors. It is especially important to do so if they are elder or someone likely to be affected by the warm weather.
• Avoid extreme temperature changes.
• Wear loose-fitting clothing. Light weight and light colored would also be preferred as well, as dark colors absorb the sun’s rays.
• Avoid strenuous activities during the hottest part of the dat. Slow down and stay indoors.
• Postpone outdoor activities. Try to schedule activities, games, or practices early in the morning, or later in the evening, to prevent from being out during the hottest peak.
• If working outdoors , use a buddy system and remember to take frequent breaks.
• Check on animals and make sure they are not suffering from the heat. Make sure they have plenty of shade and water.

Remember : Proper preparation prevents poor performance

Prepare yourself if wildfire threatens

5/14/2019 (Permalink)

Our professionals will pretest the soot residues to determine the best method of cleaning, helping to ensure no lingering odors.

Prepare an emergency supply kit. Include items such as non-perishable food, water, battery-powered radio, extra flashlights and batteries. (you may want to prepare an extra one and leave it in your car).

Make a family emergency plan. Your family may not all be together when disaster strikes, so it is important to know how to contact one another, and what plans to execute during that trying time.

Design and landscape around your house with fire-safety in mind.

• Wear protective clothing
• Take your emergency supply kit
• Lock your home or business
• Tell someone when you left and where you are going
• Choose a route away from fire hazards
• Close windows, vents, doors, blinds, or noncombustible window coverings
• Shut off all utilities; if possible
• Move flammable furniture into the center of the room.
• Turn off propane tanks
• Wet or remove shrubs within 15 feet or the home or business.

Control Moisture – Reduce Mold

5/14/2019 (Permalink)

Molds can be found in every environment; and mold spores reproduce rapidly when moisture is present. The EPA advised that the health concerns from molds are an important enough reason to prevent moisture problems leading to the growth of mold. It is especially important to clean up existing mold to increase property appeal and retain the value.

Prior to listing a property, the following steps can be taken to reduce the potential for moisture buildup or mold growth. In the case a damage event occurs, timely response is key to preventing further damage.

• Correct any water leaks and/or standing water
• Properly maintain humidifiers, if used.
• Replace wet or visibly moldy insulation material
• Steam cleaning and other methods involving moisture should not be used on any kind of duct work
• Install a ventilation system

Fire and Smoke Damage

5/6/2019 (Permalink)

Here are some emergency tips to assist you in taking the proper action until your SERVPRO Professionals arrive.

DO:

• Limit movement throughout the residence. This can help prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and/or carpet.
• Keep hands clean. Having soot on your hands can help soil additional upholstery, walls, etc.
• Place dry, colorfast towels or old linen, on rugs, upholstery, and carpet traffic areas.
• Wipe soot from chrome on kitchen and bathroom faucets, trim and appliances.
• Change HVAC filter. (Leave system alone until a trained professional can check the system)
• Clean both sides of leaves from house plants.

DON’T:

• Attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces before contacting a SERVPRO Franchise professional.
• Attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture.
• Attempt to clean any electrical appliances (TVs, Radios) that may have been close to fire, hear or water.
• Consume any food or beverages that may have been close to fire, heat, or water.
• Send garments to the dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set in smoke odor.

Mistakes to avoid when Spring Cleaning

5/2/2019 (Permalink)

You know once the weather warms up, it is a sign to bust open your windows... And your cleaning supplies! Spring cleaning is very important, especially if you suffer from allergies. While there are articles and lists to help you spring clean, here is an article on what to avoid while spring cleaning.

• DO NOT start without a goal or plan in mind. Instead of diving in to a house full of mess; start in one area (or room), tackle that one area completely, before moving onto the next.
• Start from top to bottom when cleaning. Imagine cleaning the bed and floor; only to turn around and knock dust and dirt onto the floor from furniture and the ceiling fan
• Make sure you avoid using one towel / rag. Like sponges, the more you use them; the dirtier they get. Moreover, cotton and/or microfiber cloths are very efficient for cleaning and drying surfaces.
• Ventilate – This is super important, as it will make it easier to breathe with the chemicals. Turning on the air will not quite do the trick, as it does not always generate fresh air.
• Combining chemicals – Because most of us do not always know all the chemicals in cleaner, we would not know how they react with one another. Bleach and Vinegar for example. They work very well, separate; but can become deadly if mixed.
• Avoid washing the windows when it is sunny and hot out. The sun will dry the cleaner very quickly, which could result in streaks.
• Waiting for vacuum bags to be full to replace them. A vacuum will lose over 50% of its ability to pick up and retain dirt; after its only 20% full.

Biohazard / Odor Job

4/16/2019 (Permalink)

This Fallbrook residence was littered with human waste, trash, and maggots throughout; after squatters were living there. The cleanup required removal of all the laminate flooring; deodorizing and sealing the subfloor; removal and disposal of all the upholstered furniture along with the replacement of the baseboards. 

The decontamination of a home or business due to trauma, sewage backups, chemical spills, hoarding or other biohazards can be both dangerous and emotional. Specialized training and experience is key when choosing a cleanup company to resolve these circumstances. Please refer to our Biohazard Emergency Tips - Until Help Arrives Guide and follow these tips to protect yourself and your property.

April Fools’ Day – How did it all start

4/1/2019 (Permalink)

April Fools’ Day – also called All Fools’ Day – is one of the most light-hearted days of the year, though the origins are uncertain. Some may see it as a celebration related to the turn of the seasons, while others believe it comes from the adoption of a new calendar.

Ancient cultures, including those of the Romans and Hindus, celebrated New Year's Day on or around April 1. In medieval times, much of Europe celebrated March 25, the Feast of Annunciation, as the beginning of the new year.

In 1582, Pope Gregory XIII ordered a new calendar to replace the old Julian Calendar. The new calendar called for New Year's Day to be celebrated Jan. 1. That year, France adopted the reformed calendar and shifted New Year's day to Jan. 1. According to a widespread exposition, many people either refused to accept the new date, or simply did not learn about it, and continued to celebrate New Year's Day on April 1. Other people began to make fun of these traditionalists, sending them on "fool's errands" or trying to trick them into believing something false. Eventually, the practice spread throughout Europe.

Additionally, It is worth noting that many different cultures have had days of foolishness around the start of April, give or take a couple of weeks. The Romans had a festival named Hilaria on March 25, rejoicing in the resurrection of Attis. The Hindu calendar has Holi, and the Jewish calendar has Purim. Perhaps there is something about the time of year, with its turn from winter to spring, that lends itself to cheerful, humorous celebrations.

April Fools' Day is observed throughout the Western world. Practices include sending someone on a "fool's errand”, looking for things that don't exist; playing pranks; and trying to get people to believe ludicrous things.

The French call April 1 Poisson d'Avril, or "April Fish." French children sometimes tape a picture of a fish on the back of their schoolmates, crying "Poisson d'Avril" when the prank is discovered.

For a list of pranks you can play, visit https://www.boredpanda.com/pranks-april-fools-day/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=organic

HVAC & Air Ducts

3/27/2019 (Permalink)

We may see dust or particles in the air, and brush it away, not thinking twice, assuming it is an unstoppable force. According to the EPA, Americans spend around 90% of their time indoors, but indoor levels of pollutants can be up to five times higher than outdoor pollutants.While most people generally associate us with Fire & Water Restoration, SERVPRO offers so much more than that! As spring approaches, and spring cleaning is on everyone's mind, it is the perfect time to consider having SERVPRO of Poway / Rancho Bernardo come out for a duct cleaning as part of your spring cleaning. The average home in the United States collects around 40 pounds of dust annually, and the dust in your home is made of skin cells, pollen, pet dander, and more. It gets kicked up, enters the surrounding air, and viruses, bacteria, and allergens enter your respiratory system. When pet dander enters the air, it can flare up allergies, causing sneezing and itchy eyes, without having even touched your pet. 1 in 12 Americans have symptoms of asthma, an inflammatory condition affecting the airway. Moreover, pests, such as mice, might use your vents and leave behind oils, skin cells, and waste that stays in your vents and festers. The results of an infestation could blow harmful bacteria into the surrounding air. Mold spores can also spread through air ducts and some mold may even grow in the ducts themselves. If you have water damage anywhere in your home that leads to mold, this could spread to the air and damage other parts of your house. For more information on HVAC and air duct cleaning, call us today at 858-748-7378.

Happy Pi Day!

3/14/2019 (Permalink)

Pi, which is often represented by the Greek letter π, represents the ratio of a circles circumference to its diameter. It is an irrational number, meaning its decimal is infinite and its exact value cannot be determined. Pi is the most recognized mathematical constant around the world, and is also referenced in popular culture, including in Carl Sagan’s novel, Contact. Theoretical physicist Albert Einstein was born on this day in 1879, while the Theoretical physicist Stephen Hawking died on this day just last year (2018). Around the country, food establishment are celebrating with deals on Pies and Pizza Pies; all in the name of 3.141592653589793238462643383….

Check out some of the some of the places locally that are celebrating 3/14

• BJ's Restaurants and Brew house: Mini one-topping pizzas for $3.14
• Blaze Pizza: $3.14 whole pizzas
• Boston Market: Buy one pot pie and a drink; and get a pot pie free with the applicable coupon.
• California Pizza Kitchen: $3.14 slice of key lime pie
• Pieology: Buy one artisan thin crust pizza, get another for $3.14
• Whole Foods: Get a large bakery pie for $3.14 off the normal sale price
• 7-Eleven: Order a whole pizza from 7-Eleven's 7Now app and a get a whole pie for $3.14
• Blaze Pizza: Buy through the build-your-own pie chain's app and get a pizza for $3.14

Christmas tree Fire Safety

12/20/2018 (Permalink)

Did you know that annually, Christmas trees alone result in 13 million dollars in property damage? Though Christmas tree fires are not common, 1 in every 32 reported Christmas tree home fire results in death, compared to an average of 1 death per 143 reported home fires. According to the National Fire Protection Association, the top three days for home candle fires are Christmas Eve, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. Here are some steps you can follow to avoid being another statistic in the National Fire Protection Association report during this holiday season.

• Choose a tree with fresh needles that do not fall off when they are touched.
• Before placing the tree, make sure you have cut at least 2” from the base of the trunk.
• Make sure to place the tree at least three feet away from any heat source. Including, but not limited to fireplaces, candles, heaters, lights, etc.
• Make sure the tree is not blocking an exit.
• When choosing lights, make sure they are not for outdoor use only.
• Replace any string of lights with broken cords or loose bulb connections.
• Never use lit candles to decorate the tree.
• Always make sure any Christmas tree lights are off before leaving the home or going to bed.

For more information and statistics on Holiday fires, visit www.usfa.fema.gov or www.nfpa.org

Halloween Safety Tips

10/25/2018 (Permalink)

Did you know that each year from 2014 to 2016, an estimated 10,100 fires were reported to the Fire Departments in the US, over a 3-day period around Halloween? It caused an estimated 30 deaths, 125 injuries, and $102 million in Property losses.

Halloween fires take place most commonly in the late afternoon or early evening; around 6 – 7 pm. The early morning hours around 4 – 7 am is the time at which the least fires occur. Of these fires, about half were caused due to cooking, 11% was because of heating, and the remaining fires were cause by reasons such as careless actions, or electrical malfunctions, etc. For more information on Halloween Fires, and safety tips, please visit https://www.usfa.fema.gov/data/statistics/snapshot_halloween.html

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

10/17/2018 (Permalink)

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month - a worldwide annual campaign involving thousands of organizations, to emphasize the significance of breast awareness, education and research.

What is Breast Cancer?

Breast cancer begins when cells in the breast begin to expand out of control. These cells often form a tumor that can often be seen on an x-rays, or felt as a lump. The tumor becomes cancerous when the cells grow into neighboring tissues or spread to distant areas of the body. Breast cancer occurs almost entirely in women, but men can get breast cancer, too.

Staying Aware.

Being breast aware simply means being knowledgeable about what your breasts look and feel like as normal, being alert for any abnormal changes and getting them checked out by your doctor. It’s as simple as TLC. Touch your breasts. Can you feel anything out of the ordinary? Look for changes. Is there any change in shape or texture? Check for anything unusual with your doctor. No one is familiar with your body more than you are, and everyone will have their own way of touching and looking for changes – there is no special technique and you do not need any training.

National HVAC Technician Day!

6/22/2018 (Permalink)

This Thursday, June 22 is the second annual National HVAC Tech Day. A day to acknowledge the hard work of technicians in the HVAC industry — and their positive impact on buildings and homes.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, HVAC professionals have one of the peak rates of injuries and illnesses of all occupations. Their work environments include severe heat or freezing cold, working in confined spaces, and working outside of standard business hours. Moreover, every service call is a new experience and the job can frequently be unpredictable. Additionally, the Bureau has expected a 14 percent growth in employment rates in the next 10 years.

Created in 2016, this day of recognition was founded by ARS/Rescue Rooter, a Memphis, TN-based national provider of air conditioning, heating and plumbing services. As it mentions on the initiative’s website: “A few hours without AC or heat may be uncomfortable for us, but imagine working in those conditions every day of the week! HVAC technicians tirelessly brave the sweltering heat and numbing cold to restore our comfort, often at the hottest and coldest times of the year.”

From installing heavy equipment to performing routine maintenance, SERVPRO says thanks to all the HVAC technicians that do what it takes to keep our homes and businesses comfortable.

Safety tips for Memorial Weekend.

5/25/2018 (Permalink)

Many people will spend the upcoming Memorial Day weekend taking a road trip, having their first picnic of the season or enjoying that first dip in the ocean or pool. Follow these tips to stay safe and relish all that the long holiday weekend has to offer.

DRIVING SAFETY

Be well rested and alert, use your seat belts, observe speed limits and follow the rules of the road.

• If you plan on drinking alcohol, designate a driver who won’t drink.
• Give your full attention to the road. Avoid distractions such as cell phones.
• Use caution in work zones. There are lots of construction projects underway on the highways.
• Don’t follow other vehicles too closely.
• Clean your vehicle’s lights and windows to help you see, especially at night.
• Turn your headlights on as dusk approaches, or during inclement weather.
• Don’t overdrive your headlights.
• Don’t let your vehicle’s gas tank get too low. If you have car trouble, pull as far as possible off the highway.
• Carry a Disaster Supplies Kit in your trunk.
• Let someone know where you are going, your route and when you expect to get there. If your car gets stuck along the way, help can be sent along your predetermined route.

GRILLING SAFETY

• Always supervise a barbecue grill when in use.
• Never grill indoors – not in your house, camper, tent, or any enclosed area.
• Make sure everyone, including the pets, stays away from the grill.
• Keep the grill out in the open, away from the house, the deck, tree branches, or anything that could catch fire. 
• Use the long-handled tools especially made for cooking on the grill to keep the chef safe.
• Never add charcoal starter fluid when coals have already been ignited.
• Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using grills.

WATER SAFETY

• Do your part, be water smart! Ensure that everyone in the family learns to swim well.
• Adults: actively supervise children; stay within arm’s reach of young children and newer swimmers. And kids: follow the rules.
• Don’t just pack it; wear your U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket – always when on a boat and if in a situation beyond your skill level. Inflatable children’s toys and water wings can be fun, but they are no substitute for a life jacket and adult supervision.
• Swim as a pair near a lifeguard’s chair - everyone, including experienced swimmers, should swim with a buddy in areas protected by lifeguards.

Do you need your drapes or curtains cleaned?

5/23/2018 (Permalink)

Our goal is to help minimize the interruption in your life and quickly make it "Like it never even happened."

If so, Call Today – 1-858-748-7378

SERVPRO of Poway / Rancho Bernardo Professionals excel at cleaning fine fabrics and intricate pieces. Fabrics are carefully inspected and tested to determine which of the System’s five cleaning methods is most appropriate.

Here at SERVPRO of Poway / Rancho Bernardo, we use state-of-the-art equipment designed specifically for cleaning fine fabrics. Wet and dry cleaning methods are available as required. You can be confident in the SERVPRO System - we inspect and pretest to determine the safest and most effective cleaning method. When it comes to drapery and blinds, SERVPRO of Poway / Rancho Bernardo has the training, equipment and experience to make them clean again.

When Should My Drapes Be Cleaned?

A good rule-of-thumb is to clean drapes approximately every two years. A recent survey by SERVPRO disclosed that the average customer believes drapes should be cleaned when they look dirty. Depending on your heating system, the amount of smokers in the home, and other factors, drapes may not show soil for two to six years. The oily atmospheric soil will gradually cause the fabric to deteriorate. Often, direct sunlight is unjustly blamed for this. You may triple the life of your draperies through professional cleaning, which is relatively inexpensive compared to replacement costs.

Professional Cleaning

When your draperies need cleaning, make certain they are dry cleaned ONLY. Only a small percentage of materials can be laundered. If in doubt, call SERVPRO of Poway / Rancho Bernardo for advice. Be discriminating in your choice of professional dry cleaners. Some cleaners have equipment designed for clothes cleaning, while others have equipment specifically designed for draperies.

We have an exclusive process of dry cleaning draperies right in your home. There’s no need to have your home or office exposed while your draperies are out being cleaned. SERVPRO of Poway / Rancho Bernardo Professionals inject a specially formulated solvent into your drapery under pressure and extract the chemical, leaving your drapes clean. This special process results in no damage or shrinkage to the material. Most importantly, you will get quality cleaning at a reasonable price.

Indoor Air Quality in your Business

5/22/2018 (Permalink)

Sick Building Syndrome: In the 1970’s sick building syndrome became apparent as groups of people displayed similar symptoms after having spent extended periods of time in buildings with poor air quality. Good judgment and immediate attention can correct the situation and save you money in the event of litigation. People most at risk include, but are not limited to Infants & Children, Pregnant women, Elderly, People with compromised respiratory systems or asthma / allergies, and those with weakened immune system.

Control Moisture and Reduce Mold - Act within the first 24 to 48 hours *

• Correct any water leaks or standing water.
• Remove standing water under cooling coils or air handling units.
• Properly maintain humidifiers, if used.
• Replace wet or visibly moldy insulation materials.

Proper Maintenance Saves Money

Estimated made by the World Health Organization say that poor indoor air quality costs $60 billion in employee sick leave and lost production.

Part of your responsibility to the tenants, workers and students who work and play in your buildings includes proper maintenance and prompt response to any situation that can cause illness or health concerns. SERVPRO of Poway / Rancho Bernardo is available when it matters!

National American Red Cross Founder's Day!

5/21/2018 (Permalink)

On May 21, National American Red Cross Founder’s Day marks the anniversary of the American Red Cross, which was founded in 1881, by 60 year old Clara Barton - the first president of the organization. Clara Barton was working in the U.S. Patent Office in Washington, DC when the Civil War began. Like many women, she helped collect bandages and other much-needed supplies, but she soon realized that she could best support the troops by going to the battlefields. Throughout many major battles of the war, she nursed, comforted and cooked for the wounded, earning the nickname the “Angel of the Battlefield.”

When her service to the Union soldiers was complete, Barton traveled to Europe.

While in Europe, Barton volunteered her time working with the International Red Cross during the Franco-Prussian War. Upon returning to the United States, she was determined to bring the Red Cross to America.  In 1881, the American Red Cross came into being. Barton administered the organization for the next twenty-three years.

The American Red Cross is a humanitarian organization which offers support inside the United States and is the designated affiliate of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies.

In addition to domestic disaster relief, the American Red Cross which is headquartered in Washington D.C., and presided over by volunteers now offers services in five other areas:

• Community services to help the needy
• Communications services and comfort for military members and their families
• The collection, processing and distribution of blood and blood products
• Educational programs on preparedness, health and safety
• International relief and development programs  

SERVPRO of Poway / Rancho Bernardo is happy to be a proud supporter of the American Red Cross Disaster Responder program. 

For more information on Clara Barton and the American Red Cross – you can visit http://www.redcross.org/about-us/who-we-are/history

Did you bike to work today?

5/18/2018 (Permalink)

Get out your bicycle! Friday, May 18th is National Bike to Work Day.

Did you know - 40% of all trips in the U.S. are less than two miles, making bicycling a reasonable, yet fun way to get to work. With an enlarged interest in healthy, sustainable and economic transportation options, it’s not surprising that, from 2000 to 2013, the number of bicycle commuters in the U.S. grew by more than 62 percent.

Furthermore, Hundreds of communities across the United States have been victorious in increasing bicycle commuting by providing Bike to Work Week and Bike to Work Day events.

In fact, among the 51 largest U.S. cities, 43 hosted Bike to Work Day events in 2010. The City of Denver reported the highest rate of contribution with 1 in 28 adults participating in its 2010 Bike to Work event. That effort makes a difference – In addition, it is more likely than people who participate in their Bike to Work Day promotion as first-time commuters will become regular bike commuters.

Happy National Teacher Appreciation Day

5/8/2018 (Permalink)

Teachers play a critical role in educating and shaping our children: the future leaders of our country.  They are kind, patient, hard-working, dedicated and understanding professionals that mold our children’s lives in a positive direction.  We entrust our children with the teachers, and they affect their lives on a daily basis. It is time to say “Thank You” to the exceptional teachers that you know.  Let them know that they are appreciated for all that they do.

& well, today is that day! - National Teacher Appreciation Day, and some restaurants and retailers are even offering “freebies” and deals to the country’s educators ! Many of the deals and freebies are not limited to Tuesday; the celebration of teachers goes on the rest of the week, and so do most of the deals.

Note: Some of the deals listed may not be available at all locations. Check with local retailers. Also, deals require that you verify you are an educator. 

• Adobe
• AT&T
• Barnes & Noble
• Champion
• Chick-fil-A
• Chipotle
• Costco Wholesale
• Crayola Experience
• Dell
• Hanes
• Harrah’s Resort
• Hobby Lobby
• Home Depot
• Intuit Quickbooks
• JoAnn Fabric
• Michaels
• Microsoft Store
• Oriental Trading
• PBS
• Sea World Parks & Entertainment
• Sprint
• T-Mobile
• Verizon Wireless

Though here at SERVPRO we thank our Educators Everyday, it never hurts to say it too much - THANK YOU & YOU ARE APPRECIATED always!

Does your Poway / Rancho Bernardo home have a mold problem?

4/30/2018 (Permalink)

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 – 858-748-7378

Poway Spring Family Festival

4/23/2018 (Permalink)

The Poway Spring Family Festival was a blast this year ! It was so much fun seeing new faces & explaining our services to everyone ! Stay tuned for tomorrow when we announce the winner of the 2 Padre tickets! .  Oh & don't forget - you can always count on SERVPRO to make it "Like it never even happened."

Earth Day 2018

4/20/2018 (Permalink)

Ever wondered how Earth Day started? This observance arose from an interest in gathering national support for environmental issues.

In 1970, San Francisco activist John McConnell and Wisconsin Senator Gaylord Nelson separately asked Americans to join in a grassroots demonstration. McConnell chose the spring equinox (March 21, 1970) and Nelson chose April 22.

Common Earth Day activities include planting trees, cleaning up litter, or simply enjoying nature through hiking, gardening, or taking a stroll in a local park. Here are some fun facts about the wonderful planet we live on.

• Earth is the third planet from the sun, orbiting at a distance of 93 million miles (150 million km).
• It is the fifth biggest planet in the solar system with a diameter of 8,000 miles (13,000 km).
• Earth is around 4.5 billion years old.
• The Earth spins on its own axis every 23 hours 56 minutes and takes 365 days 6 hours to orbit the sun.
• The inner core of the Earth creates a magnetic field around the planet which protects it from solar winds, the liquid metal core is believed to be hotter than the surface of the sun.
• Life first appeared on the planet 3.5 billion years ago in the form of single celled organisms.
• Modern humans have only existed on the planet for around 200,000 years
• The Earth is less well mapped than the Moon, Venus or Mars because the majority of its surface is covered by water.
• The first picture of Earth taken from space occurred in October 1946.
• There are more than 3,000 spacecraft currently orbiting the Earth. Earth's Surface Earth's Atmosphere Earth's Temperature

• The average temperature on Earth is 13C (55F) to 17C (63F). The coldest temperatures can be found at the poles, around -34C (-30F), the hottest at the equator, around 32C (90F).

• Nitrogen makes up 78 percent of the atmosphere, while oxygen makes up 21 percent. The remaining 1 percent consists of argon and small amounts of other gases.

• 70% of Earth's surface is covered by water. The rest is made up of land covered by forests, deserts, mountain ranges, grassy plains and two polar ice caps. There are also a small amount of active volcanoes.

Graffiti & Vandalism

4/13/2018 (Permalink)

Your home is one of the largest investments you will make in a lifetime. When your top asset becomes damaged by vandalism, the results and series of events afterward can be distressing. From dealing with your insurance company to attempting to resolve the damage, the experience can be difficult to deal with. 

Having knowledge of the various types of vandalism is in your best interest. Understanding the types of vandalism will come in handy when working with a local restoration company, the insurance company, and potentially the local authorities if you decide to investigate and press charges.

Graffiti

While many consider graffiti to be an art form, home and business owners are not very appreciative of their buildings being turned into a canvas. Graffiti can encompass a vast array of symbols, letters, and artistic expressions. Removing graffiti is a difficult task and requires a certain level of restoration expertise. If your home or business has been vandalized with graffiti, call us as soon as possible and we will get started on restoring your building right away. 

Broken Glass and Structure Damage

Unfortunately, some vandals feel the need to express their anger by breaking glass, denting walls, or causing another form of severe damage to a building. This aggression and vandalism can be detrimental to your home. Often, this damage can compromise the structure of your home and ultimately the safety of your family.

Arson

This is the worst type of vandalism to encounter. If your home has been the victim of malicious vandalism and ultimately fire damage, we can help you restore your home to its original condition. Arson will cause extensive harm and damage to your Poway / Rancho Bernardo home, so make sure you have an emergency plan in the case of a terrible fire.

SERVPRO is ready to restore your home or building no matter what type of vandalism you experience. Contact us today to learn more by calling (858) 587-1722

For more information on our services, please visit http://www.SERVPROpowayranchobernardo.com/vandalism-graffiti-cleanup

Client Testimonial

4/11/2018 (Permalink)

Recently, we awoke to our fire and smoke alarms blaring at 1:20 AM to face the unthinkable - our girl's bedroom was on fire! Fortunately, the girls were fine and the fire extinguished before the Fire Department responded and thank goodness, our family escaped injury. Since we able to extinguish the fire, we thought cleaning up would be simple. Well, cleaning up after a fire is not as easy as it seems. 
After a few hours of fruitless labor, we thought it a better idea to call in help. Our insurance company provided us with the names of three companies and we called the first name on the list, SERVPRO. Despite it being a Sunday morning, Ralph, the SERVPRO representative, promptly visited our house. He quickly showed us the folly of our attempt to clean up. The walls, clothing, furniture, carpets, and floors were covered in soot. In an instant, we realized that the soot from the toxic smoke was not only difficult to clean up, but a health hazard.  Ralph spent extra time with us, calming and reassuring my family that things would get back to normal. We realized then that Ralph really cares about his work and the people he encounters! 
The next morning, his SERVPRO crew arrived and immediately began the tedious, though important work of cleanup. From wiping down individual books to cleaning everything from floor to ceiling-including the air conditioning ducts, Ralph organized it all in a professionally and efficiently. Ralph and SERVPRO organized, with our approval, service calls to a dry cleaner and scheduled a time for our clothing, bedding, and pillows affected by the fire. Carpet and furniture cleaning were also organized and promptly completed. What helped our family to feel most comfortable was that Ralph's crew was more like an extended family. To a person, they were courteous   very professional, reliable and most importantly, trustworthy.  We are thankful no one injured in the fire and blessed to have people like Ralph, his crew and SERVPRO to help us recover.  Our experience with SERVPRO was flawless and I would recommend them to anyone who may need the services of a great company with such wonderful employees!

National Siblings Day 2018

4/10/2018 (Permalink)

National Siblings Day is a holiday that was traditionally unique to the United States and one that allows brothers and sisters to celebrate the special bond that exists between them. While it is a holiday that wasn’t originally celebrated nationally or recognized by the federal government, it is a holiday that millions of people across the U.S, and now the world, celebrate every year on April 10th.

This holiday was first conceived by Claudia Evart to honor her siblings – both of whom died tragically. To further the advancement and recognition of this holiday, the Siblings Day Foundation was established in 1997. Two years later, it became a non-profit organization.

Although it is not an official federal holiday, it is celebrated in many parts of the U.S. Since its conception, over 80 governors have signed gubernatorial proclamations recognizing the 10th of April as National Siblings Day. The holiday has also reached international status over the last 2 decades and is now celebrated in many different countries around the globe. Currently it is celebrated in many parts of Southeast Asia and in Australia.

Since over two-thirds of Americans have at least one sibling, there has been a number of scientific studies examining the importance of sibling relationships. One study done in 1999, showed that a sibling relationship was not only the first relationship a person is likely to have – with siblings spending at least one-third of their free time with their siblings by the time they reach puberty – but also is one of the most important a person can have. This study showed that sibling relationships greatly affect social skills. In fact, it demonstrated that people who had siblings were shown to have better social skills than individuals who didn’t have any or were raised apart from their siblings.

Don't forget to love and appreciate your siblings just a little more today!

National Love Our Children Day

4/4/2018 (Permalink)

National Love Our Children Day is observed annually on the first Saturday in April as part of National Child Abuse Prevention Month. This day honors all children and encourages us to develop loving, respectful relationships with our children.Love Our Children USA sponsors and promotes this day annually.  This day focuses on prevention of child abuse and violence against children as well bringing awareness and helping put in place support tools and resources for communities.

To observe National Child Abuse Prevention month, Love Our Children USA, (a national organization headquartered in New York whose mission is to break the cycle of violence against children) begins its ninth annual GET BLUE campaign – a national effort to educate and raise awareness for Child Abuse Prevention.

The “Blue Ribbon” is the symbol for child abuse prevention. Love Our Children USA urges every person across the country to GET BLUE. By wearing a Blue Ribbon pin during April and throughout the year, we can educate families, children, neighbors and communities on how to prevent child abuse and neglect — encourage communities and individuals in recognizing and preventing child abuse, assist families in achieving healthy parenting practices through education and resources and empower individuals to report child victimization and intervene in situations where violence and neglect harm children.

For more information, you can visit http://www.loveourchildrenusa.org/index.php

When Easter meets April Fools

3/30/2018 (Permalink)

Don't let the joke be on you this Sunday! Easter and April Fools' Day collide this year for the first time since 1945 ! Therefore - you might want to be careful before biting into a treat.

Some parents are using the unusual double holiday to prank their kids and party guests. The following pranks might not make you very popular at Easter gatherings but should illicit laughter.

• The easiest trick is to not boil the egg. But the yoke might be on you when you have to clean up the mess.
• Ever notice that Brussels sprouts are a similar size to cake pops and doughnut holes? Try dipping the green vegetable into chocolate and passing it as a dessert.
• Unwrap tiny chocolate eggs and put the foil on grapes. But will you eat the chocolate or save for your kids when the jokes over?
• No one will expect to find peeps in their closet, their shoes, coffee jars, jewelry boxes, etc. This is one April Fools' Day that you can make last as long as you want, with the help of some stale, well-hidden marshmallow treats.
• Place non-exciting items in plastic eggs. Empty wrappers and frozen veggies.
• Recycled gifts. Re-gift your kids favorite toys in their Easter baskets.
• A popular prank is to put jelly beans in the toilet and say they were left by the Easter Bunny. Perhaps, a plumber came up with this one.
• Make a sponge cake with actual sponges but use real frosting.
• Instead of something sweet in a chocolate egg, use mustard or other condiments. 
• Use Jelly Belly Candy Company’s BeanBoozled 4th Edition, which includes 20 jelly bean flavors — 10 classic flavors and 10 weird ones. For example, pick a white jelly bean and it'll be either coconut or spoiled milk.

Happy Birthday (Month) Dr. Seuss !

3/28/2018 (Permalink)

The Original Lorax Tree in La Jolla, CA.

1. Was Dr. Seuss his real name?

Not exactly. His name was Theodore Seuss Geisel - Seuss being his mother's maiden name. He started using it as a pseudonym at university. He added the Dr later, as a joke, because his father had always wanted him to get a doctorate and become a professor.

2. How many books did he write?

Between 1937 and 1991, when he died aged 87, he published more than 40 books, which have sold half a billion copies between them - more even than J K Rowling's Harry Potter books. He nearly burned his first book, And to think that I saw it on Mulberry Street, after it was turned down by 27 publishers.

3. Did he have children himself?

No. He was not particularly fond of spending time with them either. His widow, Audrey, said in a recent interview that he was slightly afraid of them. She said he was always thinking: "What might they do next? What might they ask next?" She added: "He couldn't just sit down on the floor and play with them."

4. Where did he get his ideas from?

This was a question he hated being asked. His mother was one source of inspiration: she worked in a bakery and would sing him to sleep in his childhood with her "pie-selling chants".

One of his most popular books, Green Eggs and Ham, was the result of a bet that he could not write a book using only 50 words.

These are, in order of appearance: I am Sam; that; do not like; you green eggs and ham; them; would here or there; anywhere; in a house with mouse; eat box fox; car they; could; may will see tree; let me be; train on; say the dark; rain; goat; boat; so try may; if; good; thank.

5. Where did he live?

He was born in Springfield, Massachusetts, where his grandparents lived on Mulberry Street - hence the title of his first book. He studied at Dartmouth College (in the US) and Oxford University (in the UK). In 1948 he and his first wife Helen bought an old observation tower in La Jolla, California, where he would shut himself away in a studio for at least eight hours a day, sometimes literally wearing a thinking cap.

6. The Story of the Original Lorax Tree

In Scripps Park, near where Dr. Seuss lived in La Jolla, a lone Lorax tree stands in the sun. OK, so Lorax trees aren’t really real, but some believe the tree might have inspired the creature, since Geisel's studio faced the park. Instead of belonging to the invented Truffula species, the tree is a rare Monterey Cypress native to the California coast. Seuss could see this exact tree from the observation tower he lived in. And while there may be no plaque or official designation,– ask any local La Jollan where the “Lorax Tree” is, and they’ll surely point you there. . Hard to say - but to quote the book, "It's not about what it is; it's about what it can become.”

Getting Educated on the Different types of Biohazard Waste

3/28/2018 (Permalink)

Did you know that the improper disposal of biohazard waste could potentially expose healthcare workers, waste handlers, patients, and the community at large to infection, injuries, and toxic effects, according to the World Health Organization?

The reason disposing of biohazard waste improperly happens is because there are so many different types of medical waste; many people might forget that certain items need to be properly and safely disposed of. In other cases, they may simply not be properly trained on how to handle said waste. Here are a few of the most common biohazards.

Microbiological Wastes.

One of the most common types of biohazard waste is microbiological waste, which is any laboratory waste that contains or has been contaminated with concentrated, infectious agents. For example, specimen cultures, discarded live viruses, stocks of etiologic agents, and devices used to transfer, inoculate, and mix cultures.

Human Body Fluids.

All human body fluids in a liquid or in a semi-liquid sate, including any and all human blood and blood products, are a form of biohazard waste. Items that have been contaminated with blood, saliva, secretions, cerebral spinal fluid, amniotic fluid, peritoneal fluid, pericardial fluid, pleural fluid, and/or synovial fluid in any way, shape, or form, are biohazardous. These wastes represent the majority of hazardous waste.

Animal Wastes.

Any animal carcasses, body parts, or bedding material which an infected animal may have used, are also a form of biohazard waste. That is, unless the bedding material is inoculated with pathogenic microorganisms that aren’t infectious to humans. However, it’s most often times better to be safer than sorry in these cases, and treat the bedding material as such anyways.

Pathological Waste.

Pathological waste is any and all human body parts, organs, and tissues, including any materials that may have come from surgical procedures, biopsy materials, or any unfixed human tissue.

Keeping these biohazard wastes separated is paramount for their proper disposal, just as appropriate education and incentives can help hospitals reduce red bag waste.

For more information on Biohazardous waste, please visit the World Health Organization website at http://www.who.int/en/

For more information on the Biohazard Services provided by SERVPRO click the following link - http://www.SERVPROpowayranchobernardo.com/biohazard-cleaning

Fun Facts about San Diego

3/27/2018 (Permalink)

San Diego Skyline

BRIDGES WITH PRESIDENTIAL PURPOSE.

Ronald Reagan was the first person to drive across the Coronado Bridge when it opened in 1969.

PROTECT THE JACKRABBITS!

In San Diego, it’s illegal to shoot jackrabbits from the back of a streetcar.

BAH HUMBUG… AFTER FEBRUARY 2.

There are fines issued for leaving your Christmas lights up past February 2nd.

GO NAVY!

The top employer in the city is the United States Navy.

WHEN’S THEIR TURN?

The San Diego Chargers have never won a Super Bowl.

MARINE LIFE RULES!

San Diego is home to the largest oceanographic museum in the USA, the Birch Aquarium at Scripps.

HISTORICALLY THRILLING!

The Giant Dipper, a wooden roller coaster at Belmont Park in Mission Beach, is the only roller coaster in the United States to be on the National Register of Historic Places.

GET YOUR FILL OF THIS SUPER FOOD!

San Diego produces the most avocados in the United States.

HOW MANY FARMS DOES YOUR CITY HAVE?

San Diego has the largest number in the U.S., approximately 7,000.

OH THE THINKS YOU CAN THINK IN SAN DIEGO!

The University of California, San Diego’s Geisel Library in La Jolla is home to the largest collection of original Dr. Seuss manuscripts and other materials in the world.

JUST SAY NO TO HYPNOSIS!

The act of hypnosis is banned by public schools in San Diego.

EVEN THE FAMOUS FOLKS HAVE FARMS.

Celebrity singer Jason Mraz has a 5.5 acre avocado farm in San Diego.

IT’S A FLEA CIRCUS!

San Diego has more fleas than any other city in the USA.

THERE’S A CAFÉ NAMED AFTER A BABY PANDA.

The Hua Mei café in the San Diego Zoo was named after the first baby panda born in the Western Hemisphere since 1990.

THEY’RE A THIRSTY GROUP.

San Diego imports 168 million gallons of water a day. That’s enough, if put into water bottles, to circle the earth more than one and a quarter times.

IT’S A CITY OF SKATEBOARDERS.

Well, at least two famous ones. Both Shaun White and Tony Hawk hail from San Diego.

TONY HAWK HAS A HOLIDAY NAMED AFTER HIM.

May 29th is Tony Hawk Day in San Diego (the post offices and banks don’t close, though).

ANYTIME IS A GOOD TIME TO VISIT THE CITY.

San Diego has the most ideal climate with temperatures averaging 70 all year long.

THERE’S NOTHING SUPER ABOUT THE SUPER CHARGERS.

The city has not only never won a Super Bowl, they’ve never won the world series.

THE CITY IS HOME TO MANY STARS.

Including the world’s oldest active sailing ship, The Star of India, which resides in the port of San Diego.

DON’T GO JUMP IN A LAKE!

It’s illegal to swim in any of the lakes in the city; but since they’re all man-made and there are 70 miles of shoreline to enjoy, it’s no biggie.

O’ CHRISTMAS TREE, O’ CHRISTMAS TREE!

The Hotel Del Coronado is not only the oldest wooden structure in the USA, it was the first to feature an electric lit outdoor Christmas Tree in 1904.

TUNA ANYONE?

From the early 1930s to the late 1970s, San Diego was the tuna capital of the world.

SQUEAKY DOORS GET OILED IN SAN DIEGO.

WD-40 was invented in San Diego by the Rocket Chemical Company in 1953.

WOULD YOU LIKE FRIES WITH THAT?

The first drive-in restaurant in the United States was opened in San Diego by the man who later founded Jack in the Box in 1951.

San Diego Flower Fields & Gardens

3/23/2018 (Permalink)

The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch

Each spring, San Diego's flower fields bloom into seas of beautiful colors while local institutions and horticulturalists create works of floral art.

ANZA-BORREGO DESERT STATE PARK

When: February - April

A spectacular display occurs annually in the 600,000-acre Anza-Borrego Desert State Park in San Diego's East County as colorful wildflowers bejewel the sun-scorched desert landscape. Since the phenomenon depends upon the timing and quantity of winter rains, the blossoms are at their peak for just two weeks. Guests are advised to call the Park's 24-hour "Wildflower Hotline" at 760.767.4684 before planning a tour of the desert flora.

THE FLOWER FIELDS OF CARLSBAD CALIFORNIA

When: March - May

A vibrant sea of giant ranunculus flowers transforms 50 acres of hills into rows of brilliant color. Stroll past oceans of flowers and through beautiful gardens, including a miniature rose garden, fragrant sweet pea maze, a garden featuring more than 50 All American Rose Selection winners and a spectacular display of red, white and blue flowers planted in the shape of a giant American flag.

BALBOA PARK

When: All Year Round

Encompassing nearly 1,200 acres, Balboa Park is a magnificent cultural complex that includes seven major gardens:

• Botanical Building and Lily Pond - home to more than 2,100 permanent tropical plant specimens
• Japanese Friendship Garden of San Diego - eleven acres with trails, a bonsai exhibit, a moon viewing deck, beautiful black pine trees, azaleas and ornamental plants such as camellias, magnolia, wisteria and cherry blossom trees.
• Inez Grant Parker Memorial Rose Garden - voted by the World Rose Society as one of the top rose gardens in the world
• Zoro Garden - a sunken butterfly garden
• Palm Canyon - an oasis which contains 450 palms
• Desert Garden - 2.5 acres of succulents and drought-resistant plants from around the world
• Marston House Formal and Primitive Gardens - five acres of rolling lawns, manicured formal gardens and rustic canyon gardens

FLORAL EVENTS

CORONADO FLOWER SHOW

When: April 21-22, 2018

The Coronado Flower Show is the largest tented flower show in the nation. Exhibits are placed inside tents surrounding a central gazebo, which becomes the stage for continuous entertainment, announcements and trophy presentations.

ART ALIVE

When: April 26-29, 2018

A loved and eagerly anticipated tradition, Art Alive at The San Diego Museum of Art in Balboa Park celebrates its 37th year and the stunning works of art on display in the Museum with more than 100 floral interpretations created by top local and national designers.

JULIAN WOMAN'S CLUB WILDFLOWER SHOW

When: May 4-6, 2018

A wonderful spring event, the Julian Woman's Club hosts their 91st annual Wildflower Show in the historical Julian Town Hall in San Diego's East County.

National Puppy Day

3/23/2018 (Permalink)

National Puppy Day is a day to celebrate the magic and unconditional love that puppies bring to our lives. It’s also a day to help save orphaned puppies across the globe and educate the public about the horrors of puppy mills, as well as further the mission for a nation of puppy-free pet stores. While National Puppy Day supports responsible breeding, the day is all about encouraging prospective families to consider adoption as a first choice.

Choosing the Right Breed & Size

When considering bringing a puppy into your home, make sure that you’ve researched the breed you’re adopting, taking into consideration their size, temperament, activity level, breed characteristics and other needs in relation to your home environment and family lifestyle. When adopting, make sure to ask if you can be alone in a more isolated area to interact with the puppy and observe his or her behavior. Also ask the shelter staff about the personality of the puppy you’re interested in, as they will have spent more time assessing their emotional and behavioral traits.

Not Just a Pet

Never adopt a puppy as a gift for a child, as this turns the puppy into a novelty but rather explain to your children about the overpopulation of pets in shelters and let them know that the puppy is a new family member and needs to be treated with love, respect and patience, just like a new baby would need.

Child/Puppy Safety

If you have small children, really young, hyper puppies are not a good match because they can scratch and chew on sensitive fingers and hands. Never adopt a puppy that is less than at least 8-10 weeks old, preferably 12 weeks or older, as they have had more time to learn social cues from their litter-mates and mother, which helps a puppy behave better in the long term. Teach young children to never pull on a puppy’s ears or tail, as both are sensitive and could injure and scare the puppy, creating a bonding problem between child and puppy.

Finances

Keep in mind that your puppy won’t be a puppy forever. Visualize how much your puppy will grow and how much they’ll eat. Make sure you know ahead of time that you can afford to feed your puppy once full grown. Veterinary trips are always inevitable at some point and time, so keeping an emergency fund for your dog is a smart idea, so you don’t get caught with major vet bills you can’t afford to pay.

Grooming

If you have an aversion to pet hair floating around your home and brushing your puppy every day seems like an abominable task, you may want to consider adopting a breed that has little to no shedding.

Exercise

Puppies need exercise every day, preferably shorter walks more often, as young puppies tire easily, especially in heat. Make sure to read about the breed or breeds of a mixed breed puppy to better understand what your puppy needs in terms of physical activity.

Nutrition

Give your puppy a great start in life! Make sure you buy an all natural, preferably organic food that is void of corn, wheat, sugar, by products, chemicals and dyes. Those ingredients can cause allergies which affect the behavior and overall quality of life for your puppy.

Teething

When your puppy is teething, he will try to gnaw on anything he can find to relieve his discomfort. The best way to quell this is with puppy teething rings that you can put in the freezer and once frozen, give to your puppy to chew on. If you can't afford products like this from the pet store, take an old washcloth, cut it into strips and tie a few small knots in it, sticking the strips in a plastic bag and placing in the freezer. Once frozen, hold a frozen strip and allow your puppy to chew on it, which will help to soothe and numb sensitive gums. Always hold it for them and never allow your puppy to chew on it unattended.

Spay & Neuter

Always plan to spay or neuter your puppy. Generally, if you adopt, which we always encourage, the shelter or rescue has most likely done it for you but if they haven't, there are many low cost spay and neuter programs in most cities nationwide. Sadly, the world is overflowing with unwanted puppies and allowing your puppy to grow up and breed is just adding to that problem. Shelters are overcrowded and because of it, millions of unwanted puppies lose their lives every year. Please don't be part of the problem...be part of the solution!

Turn Around Don't Drown

3/21/2018 (Permalink)

Safety is a race we can all win !

Did you know - Nearly half of flood related deaths are due to someone driving or walking into floodwaters.

Only 6 inches of fast – moving water can knock an adult off his/her feet and sweep them away.

12 inches of moving water can carry a small car & 18 to 24 inches of water can carry away larger vehicles including (but not limited to) trucks, vans, and SUVs.

If you come to an area that is covered with water, you may not know the depth of the water or the condition of the road or ground underneath. Play it safe. Whether driving or walking any time you come to a flooded area, Turn Around Don’t Drown.

Before a flood

• Stay informed – visit weather.gov or tune into your local news for the latest forecast.
• Determine whether your home, school or work is in an area that is likely to flood.
• Learn which roadways are likely to flood and find alternative routes.
• Create a communication plan so your family will know how to connect during an emergency.
• Assemble an emergency kit.
• In case of an evacuation, make sure your bags are packed (including items for your pets)
• Charge all essential electronics.
• Be proactive – leave before the flooding begins to avoid getting stranded.

During a flood

• Stay informed – tune into your local news for updates on flooding progress.
• Get to higher ground if you are in an area that is subject to flooding.
• Follow evacuation orders and heed warning signs.
• ALWAYS avoid flood waters. It is NEVER safe to drive or walk through.

After a flood

• Remember standing water can hide chemicals that can make you sick, power lines that can cause electrocution and sharp debris that can seriously harm you – Avoid flood waters!
• Avoid disaster areas – your presence may hamper emergency operations.
• Heed road closure cautionary signs.
• Wait for the ‘all clear’ before returning to an area that was impacted.
• Contact your family and loved one to let them know your okay!

For more storm safety tips, active weather alerts, and brochures – visit https://www.weather.gov

International Day of Happiness

3/20/2018 (Permalink)

Do what makes you happy.

Smile, share, eat healthily, exercise, be grateful, give back, think positively, spend some time with friends and family, spend some time alone, be mindful, dream, listen to music, say thank you and mean it, compete, be charitable, say “all the more” instead of “nonetheless” – you get it. Do what makes you happy.

Spread Happiness.

While you’re doing whatever it is you do that makes you happy, don’t forget to do whatever you can do to make others happy! Happiness is contagious. A simple smile can make even a stranger’s day much brighter. You’ve seen the Coca-Cola commercial, right? It’s not a gimmick. Watch it; you will smile! Spread happiness.

Tell everybody.

There are more than 7,300,000,000 (that’s 7.3 BILLION+) people on this planet. Each one of them has the right to happiness, and not all of them know it. Tell them. Tell your friends, your family, your neighbors, your co-workers, and your boss – hold your government accountable for securing your happiness. Tell yourself, and remind yourself: happiness is a fundamental human right, and happiness for all is a fundamental human goal. Tell everybody.

So don’t forget - Smile more. Worry less. Be the very best version of YOU. Do more of what makes you happy. Follow your dreams, believe in yourself & always remember – every day may not be good, but you can find something good in every day! ♥

St. Patrick's Day

3/16/2018 (Permalink)

The Chicago River

St. Patrick’s Day is celebrated every year on the 17^th of March because it is the day they believe St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, died in 461 AD.

St. Patrick’s day began as a religious holiday to honor the saint for bringing Christianity to Ireland. A lot of legends have developed around the life of St. Patrick, but perhaps most notable was his use of the clover, or shamrock, if you prefer; he used each of the 3 leaves to explain the trinity.

Ironically, the very first St. Patty’s day parade actually didn’t happen in Ireland -but in New York City back in 1762, when Irish soldiers serving the English military joined together and marched down the street to Irish music. Moreover, one of the biggest celebrations of St. Patrick’s Day takes place in Chicago where they dye the Chicago River green, a tradition taking place since 1962. Other big celebrations are held in Boston, Philadelphia, and NYC.

On any given day 5.5 million pints of Guinness, the famous Irish stout brand, are consumed around the world. On St. Patrick’s Day however, that number doubles to 13 million pints.

Leprechauns are often associated with this holiday. However, originally the celebration of St. Patrick’s Day did not have anything to do with these mythical creatures. It was not until Walt Disney released a film called Darby O’Gill & the Little People, which introduced America to a very different sort of leprechaun than the cantankerous little man of Irish folklore. This cheerful, friendly leprechaun is purely an American invention; however, it has quickly evolved into an easily recognizable symbol of both St. Patrick’s Day and Ireland in general.

Oh, and of course, wear something green or you might get pinched (;