Archived Commercial Blog Posts
Hire PROs For Your Post Construction Cleaning
9/20/2024 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park are experts when it comes to post-construction cleaning. Our highly trained, industry-certified staff has the attention to detail needed for large post-construction cleaning jobs. Countless commercial property owners have trusted us with the dirty work before the grand opening.
Want to make your office space or classrooms look like they’re brand new? Bring in our professionals to clean your carpets, upholstery, ceilings, walls, fixtures, deodorization, air duct cleaning, debris removal and window cleaning. No job is too big or small for us.
If your Severna Park property is in need of freshening up or even a deep cleaning, give SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park a call at 410-647-8181!
Mold Growth at Your Property? Trust SERVPRO
9/20/2023 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park specializes in mold remediation. It’s common for us to get called to commercial buildings with mold growth throughout the building. Even the smallest water damages have the potential to cause poor indoor air quality over time.
As a property manager/homeowner, here are a few things you can do to prevent mold growth at your property :
- Keep the humidity between 30-50 percent.
- Provide for proper drainage away from the building foundation.
- Regularly inspect plumbing and appliances for leaks.
- Keep gutters and drains clear of debris.
- Inspect the roof, windows and other areas where water might enter the building and perform necessary maintenance.
- Respond to all water intrusions immediately.
Got mold? Contact us, SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park at (410) 647-8181 for assistance after a water damage or if you discover mold!
Post Construction Cleaning Experts
8/1/2023 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park are experts in Post-Construction Cleaning. Interior and exterior cleaning is needed after construction services. We provide debris removal services to prepare the building for interior design. Commercial property owners have trusted us with the dirty work before a grand opening, after an accident or even a renovation, we are #here2help.
We provide cleaning services to your building. Want to make an office space or classroom look brand new? Bring in our professionals to clean your carpets, upholstery, ceilings, walls, fixtures, deodorization, air duct cleaning, debris removal, and window cleaning. No job is too big or small for us.
If your Severna Park property is in need of Post-Construction Cleaning or just a General Deep Cleaning, give SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park a call at 410 647 8181
Commercial Water Damage is No Joke
9/21/2022 (Permalink)
Annapolis and Severna Park businesses can be affected by storms, just like homes. Most flooding and other damage comes from more common threats like a broken pipe or toilet malfunction. In a few cases, sprinkler systems fail and cause even more problems when they soak merchandise, blueprints and books.
Tourists flock to Annapolis so when water damage happens to a small business, of course it is best to dry things out as quickly as a restoration team can be called in. SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park’s restoration teams are on-call seven days a week to help business owners reopen their doors to customers and prevent as much damage to merchandise.
In smaller water-front shops like in downtown Annapolis, SERVPRO’s response time is critical. Technicians use extraction equipment to draw water out of carpets and/or from concrete and wood floors. One advantage for a commercial or government facility is that if commercial carpet is in place, there is usually no padding underneath, so our teams will not necessarily need to lift them to remove padding.
In cases with a water-soaked commercial property, SERVPRO can bring commercial-grade drying equipment and dehumidification to the structure. Even if the electrical power is affected by the water damage, teams utilize a variety of generators that best suit the condition of the loss.
Our goal at SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park is to help our fellow business owners reopen for service as quickly as possible. If you are dealing with flooding or another water issue, call us today at (410) 647-8181 for help!
Post Construction Cleaning by the PROs
9/9/2022 (Permalink)
Have you made some modifications to your business post-pandemic? Added some walls or changed out the carpet? Do you need some post construction cleaning done? Once the floors are down and the drywall is painted, it is time to remove the debris and dust to prepare the building to welcome your customers and employees back.
SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park professionals provide cleaning services to give that building that extra shine. Services can include:
- Carpet/Floor prep and cleaning
- Ceiling, walls and fixture cleaning
- Deodorization
- Air Duct Cleaning
- Debris Removal (if necessary)
- Window Cleaning
SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park can help you meet your deadlines by providing thorough post construction services in a timely manner. Our post-construction cleaning services can make any mess look “Like it never even happened.” Call us to schedule a walk-through of your business to review recommendations at 410-647-8181. We are here to help!
Commercial Duct Cleaning
9/9/2022 (Permalink)
Since the ventilation system is often the biggest culprit in poor indoor air quality, inspecting the ductwork should be the highest priority. In most cases, the HVAC system has been operating for some time without much attention or maintenance. Dirty ducts can circulate odors, contaminants and irritating dust throughout the building or home.
A routine part of our services here at SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park is inspecting the heating, ventilation and air conditioning unit (HVAC). Keeping the HVAC system and ductwork clean can potentially extend the life span of the equipment by allowing it to operate at peak condition, which can help save money.
The SERVPRO Duct Cleaning Process
- The process begins by using patented equipment including a roto-scraper, which automatically adapts to the duct’s shape and diameter while traveling through the duct, removing debris before vacuuming begins.
- Next, a powerful push-pull air delivery and collection system transfers the debris from the ducting to a 16-gallon container.
- Air is filtered through a HEPA filtration system, removing 99.97 percent of particles in the airstream.
- A sealant or coating product may be sprayed to address odor or microbial concerns.
- Filters with either be cleaned or replaced after the process.
In some circumstances, such as a fire, smoke or suspected mold growth, duct cleaning becomes an essential part of the cleanup process. In these cases, our uniformed professionals can often restore the HVAC system and ductwork to pre-damage condition.
COVID Lingering in Your Business?
8/8/2022 (Permalink)
Did you know that our professionals here at SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park professionals are uniquely prepared during this unprecedented time to clean and sanitize your business? We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform daily.
IICRC Certified. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) is the non-profit certifying body for the cleaning and restoration industry. Not only is SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park IICRC certified as a firm, but most members of our staff carry several IICRC certifications.
Cleaning Experts. The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets, and tables at a minimum. Most of our cleaning tactics will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform daily.
The CDC also recommends regular cleaning of the following areas/items:
- Kitchen/Food Areas
- Bathrooms in Schools/Classrooms
- Offices
- Retail Spaces
- Water Fountains
- Shelving/Racks
- Sales Counters
- Carpets and Rugs
- Stair Handrails
- Elevators and Escalators
- Playground Equipment
- Fitness Equipment
Cleaning Products. Multiple products in the SERVPRO product line meet this standard and carry the EPA-registered emerging pathogens claims.
Our proprietary cleaning agents, Benefect and Shockwave, are EPA-certified, hospital-grade disinfectants that have demonstrated effectiveness against viruses like Coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2/COVID-19) on hard, non-porous surfaces.
We carry multiple hospital-grade disinfectants and provide our personnel with proper PPE. Not only does this protect everyone, but it also protects the building and people in it.
Cleaning Procedures. SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park technicians are experts in infectious disease cleanup and bio-hazard cleaning. Our proven cleaning procedures and protocols have been used to clean and sanitize rhinovirus and norovirus in the past.
Bring the professionals in! Call SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park (410) 647-8181.
Keeping Your Property Safe from Mold
4/18/2022 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park specializes in mold remediation. It’s common for us to get called to commercial buildings with mold problems. Even small water damages have the potential to cause poor indoor air quality over time.
As a property manager/homeowner, here are a few things you can do to keep mold away:
- Keep the humidity between 30-50 percent.
- Provide for proper drainage away from the building foundation.
- Regularly inspect plumbing and appliances for leaks.
- Keep gutters and drains clear of debris.
- Inspect the roof, windows and other areas where water might enter the building and perform necessary maintenance.
- Respond to all water intrusions immediately.
Got mold? Contact us, SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park at (410) 647-8181 for assistance after a water damage or if you discover mold
Get Your Commercial Property Ready for Winter
12/3/2021 (Permalink)
Is your office winter ready? Temperatures are dipping in Anne Arundel County. December 21 is the first day of winter. To help prevent costly damages due to weather, consider taking the following precautions to protect your property:
- Check your business property for downed tree limbs and branches. Wind, heavy rain, ice, and snow can cause branches to fall, which could cause damage to the property and potentially cause personal injuries.
- Roofs, water pipes, and gutters should all be inspected to help ensure they are in proper order. Gutter downspouts should be directed away from your building. Clear gutters of debris that may have gathered during the fall. Leaves and other obstructions can cause a damming effect, which can lead to roof damage and interior water problems
- Inspect property, especially walkways and parking lots, for proper drainage to alleviate a potential flood hazard.
- Inspect all handrails, stairwells, and entryways to address and correct potential slippery or hazardous areas. Install mats or non-slip surfaces and post caution signs where water could be present.
- Protect water pipes from freezing by simply allowing water to drip when temperatures dip below freezing. If pipes are under a cabinet, leave the cabinet doors open, allowing warm inside air to circulate around the pipes. If the building has outdoor faucets, consider shutting water off at the main valve in the basement or crawl space. Once the valve is off, open the outdoor faucet to ensure it drains, preventing any remaining water from freezing in the pipe.
When winter weather strikes, call SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park professionals to strike back and help make it “Like it never even happened.”
Get Your Property Ready for Listing
9/22/2021 (Permalink)
Everyone knows that a fresh, clean home sells faster. Unfortunately, not all homes have the luxury of being so clean. Nearly every realtor is faced with a listing that is difficult to show. Realtors need to maintain clean homes for a variety of reasons such as:
- Increased market value
- Reduced list to sale conversion time
- Enhanced reputation of quality listings and quick sales
At SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park, our franchise professionals offer a variety of services to help improve your listings to top condition like:
- Carpet, upholstery, drapery, and blind cleaning
- Ceiling, wall, and hard floor cleaning
- Deodorization
- Duct & HVAC cleaning
- Mold mitigation and remediation
With over 40 years of experience in the restoration industry and more than 1,700 franchises serving all 50 states, choose SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park for all your restoration needs.
Commercial Post Construction Cleaning
9/5/2021 (Permalink)
Building Debris
SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park are experts in Post-Construction Cleaning. Interior and exterior cleaning is needed after construction services. We provide debris removal services to prepare the building for interior design. Commercial property owners have trusted us with the dirty work before a grand opening, after an accident or even a renovation, we are #here2help.
We provide cleaning services to your building. Want to make an office space or classroom look brand new? Bring in our professionals to clean your carpets, upholstery, ceilings, walls, fixtures, deodorization, air duct cleaning, debris removal, and window cleaning. No job is too big or small for us.
If your Severna Park property is in need of Post-Construction Cleaning or just a General Deep Cleaning, give SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park a call at 410 647 8181
National Preparedness Month
9/5/2021 (Permalink)
September is National Preparedness Month, an annual observance to remind all Americans how important it is for individuals, families, businesses and communities to be prepared for disasters and emergencies that can happen at any time.
This year’s theme is Prepare to Protect and highlights how preparing for disaster is to protect everyone you love. The theme “Prepare to Protect” which carries universal meaning and significance, was established based on research as the idea of protecting one’s family is a prime motivator to prepare for a disaster. Now is the time that everyone should have a conversation with their family, neighbors an co-workers to discuss what you would do in the event of a disaster in your area.
If your home or business suffers a natural disaster or emergency call SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park, 410-647-8181, we can help.
Post Construction Cleaning
8/9/2021 (Permalink)
Renovation finishing up with a fresh coat of paint
Have you made some modifications to your business during the Pandemic? Added some walls or changed out the carpet. Do you need some post construction cleaning done? Once the floors are down and the drywall is painted, its time to remove the debris and dust to prepare the building to welcome your customers and employees back.
SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park professionals provide cleaning services to give that building that extra shine. Services can include:
- Carpet/Floor prep and cleaning
- Ceiling, walls and fixture cleaning
- Deodorization
- Air Duct Cleaning
- Debris Removal (if necessary)
- Window Cleaning
SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park can help you meet your deadlines by providing thorough post construction services in a timely manner. Call us to schedule a walk through of your business to review recommendations, 410-647-8181. We are #Here2Help
The Challenges of Reopening your Business After Covid
4/19/2021 (Permalink)
The front door hinges may make a squeaky protest as you open them; but it's time to get back to the business of doing business. Everyone is excited to be reopening, but you’re also apprehensive. What has changed, what will be done differently, how can I adjust my business to these new ways?
Some of the challenges when we reopen will be:
Reluctant employees - can I count on old employees to return or will I need to start training a whole new team?
Social distancing adjustments - do I need to adjust the location of employee desks, or customer tables, add dividers to respect social distancing guidelines?
Will Your Customer Base Return - Should I consider marketing to different base of customers?
Supply Chain disruptions – Can I get what I need to start doing business again?
One of the challenges you don’t need to worry about is cleanliness . The world has changed what it means to be clean and we have adapted to that change. SERVPRO is the nation’s #1 choice in cleanup and restoration. Call SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park at 410-647-8181 to discuss new cleaning needs for your business. We proudly support our local businesses and would be honored to assist you in re-opening your business. Hold us to a higher standard of clean, we will proudly accept the challenge.
Get Your Property Winter Ready
12/4/2020 (Permalink)
Winter Weather
Is your office winter ready? Temperatures are dipping in Anne Arundel County. December 21 is the first day of winter and even though the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predicts a warmer than normal winter, make sure you take precautions for freezing temperatures.
To help prevent costly damages due to weather, consider taking the following precautions to protect your property:
- Check your business property for downed tree limbs and branches. Wind, heavy rain, ice, and snow can cause branches to fall, which could cause damage to the property and potentially cause personal injuries.
- Roofs, water pipes, and gutters should all be inspected to help ensure they are in proper order. Gutter downspouts should be directed away from your building. Clear gutters of debris that may have gathered during the fall. Leaves and other obstructions can cause a damming effect, which can lead to roof damage and interior water problems
- Inspect property, especially walkways and parking lots, for proper drainage to alleviate a potential flood hazard.
- Inspect all handrails, stairwells, and entryways to address and correct potential slippery or hazardous areas. Install mats or non-slip surfaces and post caution signs where water could be present.
- Protect water pipes from freezing by simply allowing water to drip when temperatures dip below freezing. If pipes are under a cabinet, leave the cabinet doors open, allowing warm inside air to circulate around the pipes. If the building has outdoor faucets, consider shutting water off at the main valve in the basement or crawl space. Once the valve is off, open the outdoor faucet to ensure it drains, preventing any remaining water from freezing in the pipe.
When winter weather strikes, call SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park professionals to strike back and help make it “Like it never even happened.”
What's in Your Emergency Plan?
9/10/2020 (Permalink)
Planning Session
A workplace emergency is an unforeseen situation that threatens your employees, customers, or the public; disrupts or shuts down your operations; or causes physical or environmental damage. Natural emergencies may include the following:
- Floods
- Hurricanes
- Tornadoes
- Fires
SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park recommends your company emergency plan contain the following:
Stay in business. Recently, COVID-19 forced businesses to quickly shift from office-work environment to work-from-home. Was your business prepared? Were you able to continue operations? One thing that may help you plan for this type of environment is setting up a Virtual Private Network (VPN). This technology allows employees to access the company network from home.
Emergency communications. How will you communicate important information to your employees? Consider setting up a telephone calling tree, a password-protected page on the company website, an email alert or a call-in voice recording to communicate with employees in an emergency.
Evacuation Plan. If there is a fire in your building, what is the evacuation plan? Create a site map and determine several evacuation routes based on office locations. Set up an off-site safe meeting location where employees can gather.
Click here to access FEMA’s Emergency Plan Guide.
During September (National Preparedness Month), we urge you to train and educate internal personnel on your emergency response plan.
How to Make an Emergency Plan
9/8/2020 (Permalink)
Tree Down
September is National Preparedness Month. Join Anne Arundel County in preparing
for emergencies and disasters of all types, and leading efforts to encourage the community as a whole to become more prepared.
SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park works on commercial properties that suffer storm damage. What we often notice is the property as well as the personnel do NOT have an emergency plan. In September 2020, a tornado wreaked havoc on certain parts of Anne Arundel County. And, once again, some businesses and properties were not prepared.
“Disasters happen” and not only devastate individuals and neighborhoods, but entire communities. We recommend you make a plan and practice it with your employees.
Here are several things you should include in your preparedness plan:
- An evacuation and shelter-in-place plans
- A plan to communicate with your employees and their families
- An emergency supply kit
- Practice your emergency plan
Be sure to sign up for alerts and warnings for Anne Arundel County, and download other necessary apps to stay informed, such as the FEMA app.
Keep SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park’s contact information on your cell phone and in your plan. Our team is always here to help and make it “Like it never even happened,” if disaster strikes in your life.
National Preparedness Month in Anne Arundel County
9/1/2020 (Permalink)
Annapolis Water
The act of being prepared took on new meaning this year as the coronavirus pandemic challenged every part of our lives. In the beginning, the basic necessities we take for granted became scarce quickly, shining a spotlight on the need to be prepared in the event of an emergency.
September is National Preparedness Month (NPM). National Preparedness Month and SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park wants your business to be prepared. This means, both your employees and personnel as well as your property and equipment.
Click here to register to receive emergency notifications from Anne Arundel County. This year for National Preparedness Month, join your community in preparing for emergencies and disasters of all types. Click here for more information on what’s happening in Anne Arundel County this month.
Whether its flood, fire or extreme winter weather, we must work together as a team to ensure our families, businesses, places of worship and neighborhoods are prepared.
How to Protect Your Building From Mold
8/4/2020 (Permalink)
Faster to any Size Disaster
SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park specializes in mold remediation. It’s common for us to get called to commercial buildings with mold problems. Even small water damages have the potential to cause poor indoor air quality over time.
As a property manager/homeowner, here are a few things you can do to keep mold away:
- Keep the humidity between 30-50 percent.
- Provide for proper drainage away from the building foundation.
- Regularly inspect plumbing and appliances for leaks.
- Keep gutters and drains clear of debris.
- Inspect the roof, windows and other areas where water might enter the building and perform necessary maintenance.
- Respond to all water intrusions immediately.
Got mold? Contact us, SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park at (410) 647-8181 for assistance after a water damage or if you discover mold
What are the Differences Between Janitorial Services and Commercial Cleaning for COVID-19?
4/15/2020 (Permalink)
Here to Help
SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park is being called on by numerous business and community leaders to perform the necessary bioremediation services to clean and sanitize their properties for COVID-19.
SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park professionals are uniquely prepared during this unprecedented time to clean and sanitize your business according to the protocols set forth by the CDC. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform on a daily basis.
Here are 4 things that show how our cleaning is different than janitorial cleaning:
IICRC Certified. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) is the non-profit certifying body for the cleaning and restoration industry. Not only is SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park IICRC certified as a firm, but most members of our staff carry several IICRC certifications.
Cleaning Experts. The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets, and tables at a minimum. Most of our cleaning tactics will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform on a daily basis
The CDC also recommends regular cleaning of the following areas/items:
- Kitchen/Food Areas
- Bathrooms n Schools/Classrooms
- Offices
- Retail Spaces
- Water Fountains
- Shelving/Racks
- Sales Counters
- Carpets and Rugs
- Stair Handrails
- Elevators and Escalators
- Playground Equipment
- Fitness Equipment
Cleaning Products. Multiple products in the SERVPRO product line meet this standard and carry the EPA-registered emerging pathogens claims. While there is currently no product tested against this particular strain of the coronavirus, we are following all guidelines as provided by the CDC and local authorities.
Our proprietary cleaning agents, Benefect and Shockwave, are EPA-certified, hospital-grade disinfectants that have demonstrated effectiveness against viruses similar to Coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2/COVID-19) on hard, non-porus surfaces.
We carry multiple hospital-grade disinfectants and provide our personnel with proper PPE. Not only does this protect everyone, but it also protects the building and people in it.
Cleaning Procedures. SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park technicians are experts in infectious disease cleanup and bio-hazard cleaning. We are a member in American Bio Recovery Association (ABRA). Our proven cleaning procedures and protocols have been used to clean and sanitize rhinovirus and norovirus in the past. We are implementing similar protocols, and we are "battle tested" in regards to virus cleanup.
Bring the professionals in! Call SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park (410) 647-8181.
How to Prepare Your Business for Winter
12/2/2019 (Permalink)
Winter Weather
December 21 is the first day of winter, is your business ready? SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park can help prepare your business with an Emergency Ready Profile (ERP). Here are 3 tips you can implement yourself:
- Check your business property for downed tree limbs and branches. Weather, such as wind, heavy rain, ice and snow, can cause branches to fall, which could cause damage to the property and potentially cause personal injuries.
- Inspect property, especially walkways and parking lots, for proper drainage to alleviate flood hazard potential.
- Inspect all handrails, stairwells and entryways to address and correct potential slippery or hazardous areas. Install mats or non-slip surfaces and post caution signs where water could be present.
SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park can provide you assistance by developing an ERP. As part of a well thought-out Contingency Plan, your ERP will contain information you need in the event an emergency situation occurs. You can see how this is done, by watching this video.
Fighting Back-to-School Illnesses
9/9/2019 (Permalink)
Call SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park
It’s back-to-school time! Teachers are working on lesson plans. Parents are buying school supplies. Did you know the classroom can be a breeding ground for organisms that cause illness in students?
Here is a list of the most common back-to-school illnesses to look out for:
- Most commonly spread by direct contact with the hair.
- Hand-Foot-and-Mouth-Disease (HFMD). HFMD is an acute virus that typically affects children younger than 5. Transmission occurs via contact, cough and sneezes as well as contaminated surfaces.
- Scarlett Fever. Usually effects children ages 5 – 12 and comes from strep throat.
- Pink Eye. Bacterial conjunctivitis that is highly contagious. Pink eye is an airborne viruses can be spread through sneezing and coughing. Viral conjunctivitis can also accompany common viral upper respiratory infections such as measles, the flu or the common cold.
When a child comes home from school sick, it’s affects the family. Parents miss work and students miss out on learning.
SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Parks is helping schools provide clean, healthy environments for our community’s children. Over the Summer, we’ve worked with several educational facilities sanitizing classrooms. Our team cleaned and sanitized building materials, surfaces and contents using professional cleaning products as well as EPA registered cleaners and disinfectants.
We would be remiss if we didn’t mention the flu virus when writing about back-to-school. There are many different types of flu and the CDC has scientific-based prediction tools to help prevent and contain the spread of the flu. Last year, SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park helped several schools in our community by disinfecting after flu and virus outbreaks.
Making Schools Safer
9/6/2019 (Permalink)
Safe Schools Maryland
A safer school begins with you. It’s back-to-school time and teachers are all too familiar with active shooter drills. Anne Arundel County Public Schools (AACPS) has a Crisis and Emergency Management Plan in place that provides basic guidelines and procedures to be followed in the event of an emergency or crisis incident.
The Anne Arundel County Office of Emergency Management posted to following regarding active shootings:
- Sign up to receive local emergency alerts and register your work and personal contact information with any work sponsored alert system
- Be aware of your environment and any possible dangers
- Remember during an active shooting, RUN. HIDE. FIGHT.
You can also sign up for active shooter training with the Department of Homeland Security.
You could save a life by reporting an anonymous tip to Safe Schools Maryland 833-632-7233. The Safe Schools Maryland Tip Line is an anonymous reporting system used to report threats to the safety and/or well-being of students.
Students, parents, faculty, staff, and members of communities throughout Maryland may use this anonymous, app- and web-based reporting system to share their concerns, such as:
- Mental health crises
- Bullying
- School and community violence
- Drug activity
- Abuse
- Harassment
- Other issues affecting our Maryland students
The Safe Schools Maryland Tip Line is a tool for proactively addressing harmful situations and helping students who need it. By using a variety of communication modes to support the reporting and routing of tips, The Safe Schools Maryland Tip Line empowers the citizens of Maryland to create a culture of preparedness, prevention, and school safety for our students.
Do you have a concern you want to share? Report an anonymous tip now. SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park wants you to be prepared and stay safe.
4 Tips to Ensure Your Property’s Electrical is in Top Shape
8/30/2019 (Permalink)
Electric Outlet
In the past year, SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park has seen numerous electrical fires. One fire in Severna Park was caused by a cell phone charger and the entire single-family home burned to the ground.
SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park recommends the following tips to make sure you are protected:
- Electrical Extension Cords. If you have tenants regularly using extension cords, you may need additional outlets installed in some units. Extension cords are always meant to be a short-term solution.
- Tamper Resistant Outlets. Install tamper resistant outlets for day care centers or schools to ensure no one gets shocked or no inappropriate objects are put into outlets.
- GFCI Outlets. Inspect GFCI outlets to reduce risk of electrical shock to your tenants. National Code requires them in all kitchens, bathrooms, garages, and outdoor areas.
- Panel and AFCI Receptacles. Be sure to inspect your electrical panels and AFCI receptacles. Both work to ensure safe conditions if an arc fault is detected. An arc fault is when damaged wiring or a device creates a hot or unsafe situation.
Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions. When various materials burn, the soot and residue they create differs greatly and requires a specific cleaning procedure. The steps listed below illustrate our process for the “typical” fire damage restoration. Learn more about our fire damage restoration process.
- Emergency Contact
- Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment
- Immediate Board-Up and Roof Tarp Service (if needed)
- Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)
- Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces
- Cleaning and Repair
- Restoration
Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? Call Us Today – (410) 647-8181
Ridoizio Grill is Coming to Annapolis
8/1/2019 (Permalink)
Concept from The Capital Gazette
News hit recently that a new restaurant is coming to Annapolis. Did you know that SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park works with restaurants on a regular basis to ensure cleanliness?
According to The Capital Gazette, “Rodizio Grill, a Utah-based chain, said it will open its first Maryland location this fall, bringing the first ‘currasco’-style steakhouse to the Annapolis area”. The restaurant can seat 350 and will be in Annapolis Mall.
Our SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park team works with many food service facilities throughout the Anne Arundel County area. With this experience in the food service industry, we have variety of detailed services for the following types of facilities:
- Food manufacturing facilities
- Food distribution centers
- Fast food restaurants
- Fine dining restaurants
- Senior living facility kitchens
- School cafeterias
We provide a variety of services to restaurants, including: post-commercial cleaning, carpet, upholstery, drapes, deodorization, water removal, mold mitigation, and more.
SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park strives to be the one number restaurants call when help can’t afford to wait.
Commercial Spring Cleaning
4/15/2019 (Permalink)
Bacteria
Are you ready to tackle Spring cleaning in your facility? It seems like every year there are serious viruses or fungi that cause panic. SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park has performed a variety of commercial cleaning projects to tackle many serious health crises including the flu and bio hazard cleanup.
There is a deadly superbug known as Candida auris (C. auris) that was found recently in New York as well as Maryland and over 600 cases were reported in the United States. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recently added C. auris to its list of “urgent threats”. Almost half of the individuals infected with C. auris die within 90 days.
Did you know the flu can live on hard surfaces for up to 24 hours? Could you imagine how many individuals are exposed to the flu at a school with 500 students? In 2017, the CDC reported that 80,000 people died from the flu.
Exposure to biological and chemical contaminants can pose serious health consequences. A failure to properly remove such substances can contribute to unhealthy and dangerous environments. Equipped with the necessary safety apparatus and cleaning products, SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park can help transform these unhealthy environments back into clean, safe offices. Call the cleanup team that is faster to any size disaster.
Is Your Business Prepared for Winter?
11/28/2018 (Permalink)
Emergency Ready Profile
Even the best-run businesses face risk of water, fire, natural disasters, and other damage during the winter season. SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park can help your business prepare with an Emergency Ready Profile which can act as your business Disaster Recovery Plan.
First, here are some tips to get your building winterized. Allow cold water to drip from a faucet. Running water through a pipe—even at a trickle—helps prevent pipes from freezing. If a pipe has broken, turn off the water at the main shutoff valve, which is usually at the water meter or where the main line enters the building. Remember to turn off office space heaters in the evening to reduce your fire risk. To reduce heating costs, invest in air conditioner covers so cold air doesn’t come into your building where the in-take is located. Use weather strips and draft blockers to keep cold air out. SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park recommends you take the time to winterize your building before the freezing weather settles in.
But even with all the winterization, building damage may be inevitable and that’s why we encourage you to create a plan to assist your team in an emergency event. The SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile is a no-cost assessment of your facility that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency. Things like insurance information, shut off valve locations with clearly identified photographs and emergency contact and account numbers are just a few of the components of a SERVPRO ERP. It also serves as a guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster faster. The ERP establishes SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider.
While an ERP won’t completely insulate businesses from risks, a well-thought-out strategy can help minimize the impact. Call SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park for your FREE Emergency Ready Profile today.
How Prepared are you for Hurricane Florence?
9/11/2018 (Permalink)
Hurricane Florence
As a business owner, insurer or property manager, you are a leader in your community and have the opportunity to set an example for your employees, customers and community to follow. Although, Maryland is not in the direct path of Hurricane Florence, many businesses will feel the effects from this storm via heavy rain, storm surge, and high winds.
As a business, you want to ensure you have a plan to help you:
- Stay in business
- Encourage employees to become ready
- Protect your investment
SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park can serve your business by creating an Emergency READY Profile (ERP). The ERP will help ensure you and your business are “Ready for whatever happens.”
In the event of an emergency, the ERP can help minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action in place for your facility. This is a no-cost assessment.
Contact us today to establish your ERP.
Commercial Water Damage
9/7/2018 (Permalink)
Annapolis Waterfront water damage
Annapolis and Severna Park businesses can be affected by storms, just like homes. Most flooding and other damage comes from more common threats like a broken pipe or toilet malfunction. In a few cases, sprinkler systems fail and cause even more problems when they soak merchandise, blueprints and books.
Tourists flock to Annapolis so when water damage happens to a small business, of course it is best to dry things out as quickly as a restoration team can be called in. SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park’s restoration teams are on-call seven days a week to help business owners reopen their doors to customers and prevent as much damage to merchandise.
In smaller water-front shops like in downtown Annapolis, SERVPRO’s response time is critical. Technicians use extraction equipment to draw water out of carpets and/or from concrete and wood floors. One advantage for a commercial or government facility is that if commercial carpet is in place, there is usually no padding underneath, so our teams will not necessarily need to lift them to remove padding.
In cases with a water-soaked commercial property, SERVPRO can bring commercial-grade drying equipment and dehumidification to the structure. Even if the electrical power is affected by the water damage, teams utilize a variety of generators that best suit the condition of the loss.
Our goal at SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park is to help our fellow business owners reopen for service as quickly as possible. If you are dealing with flooding or another water issue, call us today at (410) 647-8181 for help!
Commercial Response Time
8/29/2018 (Permalink)
Water in Hotel
When water is spilling in your building, it’s an emergency. It doesn’t matter if it’s 2:00 in the morning or 2:00 in the afternoon. SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park prides itself on a rapid response time.
Recently, we received a call from a hotel in Annapolis at 2:30 am and we were onsite cleaning up the water within 1 hour. The hotel had water leaking from a shower pipe that ruptured on the 4th floor of their facility. Unfortunately, water flowed through 3 levels and effected 11 hotel rooms. Thankfully, the on-site staff were able to stop the flow of water, and SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park was able to swiftly attack the cleanup.
The client was so happy he gave us the following review:
SERVPRO was very quick and efficient when we had a major leak at our property. Their response time, to our property which was many miles away was within 1.5 hours (at 2:30am we called them). Their team and supervisors were quick to assess and start the clean-up processes so that no major damage occurred and they had the best attitude and hustle to get the job recovered from the flooding water leak. My hat is off to Trish Turner and her team for being OUTSTANDING in every aspect of cleaning, recovery and communication! Thanks and you all are 5 Stars.
We appreciate the kind review the client left online and we pride ourselves on being available 24-7 to help in any disaster.
Commercial Fire Safety
8/2/2018 (Permalink)
Emergency Ready Profile
Commercial fire is one of the common issues during the summer months. Smoke alarms are a key part of a commercial as well as a well-rehearsed fire escape plan. When there is a fire, smoke spreads fast. Working smoke alarms give you early warning so you can get outside quickly. Here are a few fire safety tips you can implement in your building.
SAFETY TIPS
- Install smoke alarms in every room. They should also be outside each area and on every level of the building. Install alarms in the basement.
- Large commercial property may need extra smoke alarms in large, open rooms.
- It is best to use interconnected smoke alarms. When one smoke alarm sounds, they all sound.
- Test all smoke alarms at least once a month. Press the test button to be sure the alarm is working.
- Current alarms on the market employ different types of technology including multi-sensing, which could include smoke and carbon monoxide combined.
- Today’s smoke alarms will be more technologically advanced to respond to a multitude of fire conditions, yet mitigate false alarms.
- A smoke alarm should be on the ceiling or high on a wall.
- People who are hard-of-hearing or deaf can use special alarms. These alarms have strobe lights and bed shakers.
- Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old.
SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park provides a free Emergency Ready Profile, which includes a telephone application. This powerful resource is available to property managers, building owners, and company safety representatives.
How much is on your facility managers plate?
4/13/2018 (Permalink)
Let us take care of your commercial water, fire and mold restoration.
Annapolis facility managers have a lot of responsibilities. At one local Class A building I have seen the facility manager change lightbulbs, check on the cleanliness of the ladies’ room, head to the roof and check the systems, check the air flow in various locations of an office space, work with window washing vendors and talk the firemen at a fire drill. That was all in one morning.
One thing I did learn over the years in that building was that as talented as our facility manager was, he was smart enough to have good help. He was aware that he was not able to manage every type of situation himself so he would call in experts for each area.
Their commercial water restoration company on call was SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park.
Their commercial fire restoration company on call was SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park.
Their commercial bio-hazard company on call was SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park.
Their commercial mold mitigation company on call was SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park.
Trust our team with your commercial space and take something off your facility managers plate.
Cleaning Deeper in Annapolis
3/27/2018 (Permalink)
Germs can be spread during our daily activity in Annapolis.
Businesses all around the Annapolis/ Severna Park area should be thinking deeper about cleanings. Most companies have nightly cleaning service or even day porters, but with the increase of infectious diseases, everyone should be thinking DEEPER CLEAN.
Some interesting facts to back up this notion:
Fact: C. Diff has killed more people than Ebola and can live outside the body for 70-90 days.
Fact: Tuberculosis is one of the fastest growing communicable diseases in the world.
Fact: This flu season 48 states had high levels of flu activity
Locals are concerned about staying healthy and thinking about all the places that germs might be lurking. Where do you go on a daily basis? The grocery store, work, restaurants, the gym, movie theater, schools or the mall might be a part of your travels. These busy populated places can be breading grounds for infectious diseases.
If you work or own a business in the area you can call SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park for a deep clean/sanitization estimate. Our services can get to that deeper level than surface clean.
Paper, Paper Everywhere
10/10/2017 (Permalink)
Document Restoration is possible when you call SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park.
How much paper do you think your office uses in a day?
In a month?
In a year?
Many businesses have made efforts to go “paperless” but paper is still a large part of many commercial businesses. Law firms, education institutes, accountants, and medical offices all have important documents that, if lost, would devastate the business.
Did you know there is a way to restore those documents if damaged?
SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park has the capability to restore important documents using different restorative drying processes. In many water damages there is bacteria introduced to the environment. The latest vacuum freeze-drying method, as well as gamma irradiation technology for sterilizing allow us to preserve and sanitize the documents most important to you. The technology we use is the only method approved by the National Archives and Records Administration and General Services Administration. For your home or office document needs call 410.647.8181.
Who cleans those cushions?
10/10/2017 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park cleans those cushions.
Do you ever think about what you are sitting on? In the hotel lobby, on the bus, in a conference room, or auditorium where hundreds of people have been before you. You do not need to be a germaphobe to know that all those people have left behind something,and germs can cause health effects.
As individuals, we can wash our hands or use sanitizer to combat these leave behinds. As commercial businesses, you too can do something to keep your property clean, Call SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park for a cleaning estimate. We have been cleaning commercial upholstery, carpets and train cushions for years to minimize visual dirt as well as those pesky germs. These cleanings are a value add to your guests and enhance the longevity of your property. For a free estimate call 410.647.8181 now.
What will your sign say?
9/12/2017 (Permalink)
Don't let a disaster close your doors.
Almost forty percent of business do not reopen after a disaster per FEMA . Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. By developing a SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage affect your business.
Would staff know where to direct first responders?
Do your employees know your chain of command?
Do your managers know where water shut off valves are?
Thankfully, SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park can help with getting your plan underway. Not only do we offer a FREE customized Emergency Ready Profile, we have Pre- Disaster Agreements that set us up to be on call for your fire, water, and mold damages.
Creating a plan now is what will make the difference in what your sign will say. Call 410.647.8181 to schedule your FREE planning appointment.
Diane Whittles helps keep local businesses doors open
9/12/2017 (Permalink)
Diane helps local historical sites, businesses and residences to stay open after a disaster.
Whether it's a coastal storm, tidal flooding or the long-term reality of sea level rise, properties and public spaces within the flood hazard area are at risk. Even the most conservative projections indicate that we might anticipate an increase in sea level and flood elevations of nearly 4 ft. by 2100. Annapolis and the surrounding area have many historical buildings,commercial businesses and monuments in these zones. Area leaders are working on plans to minimize the effect on our local history. Weather It Together is the Annapolis community-based planning initiative designed to adapt communities to minimize the risks associated with flooding.
Diane Whittles, owner of SERVPRO® of Annapolis/Severna Park and SERVPRO® of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian has over 40 years of experience with flooding and the effects it can have on individuals, businesses and cities. She has seen the devastation and financial toll that water damage can have. Making every effort to help people prepare for these situations is a key component of Diane’s messaging, she would like to help people avoid disasters. This fell right in line with the Weather It Together initiative. Each month WIT hosts a guest speaker that shares research, experiences or strategies they have been a part of. Ellicott City leaders, Office of Emergency Management, FEMA, DNR, Historic Preservation Council and many more have all participated and collaborated to educate our community.
The collaboration doesn’t stop locally, Keeping History Above Water will be hosting its second annual conference in Annapolis, October 29-31 to share best practices, promote dialogue and engage new audiences. Session speakers will include Dr. David Guggenheim, President, Ocean Doctor Inc., James B, Balocki, Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Navy (Installations and Facilities), and Annapolis’s very own, Lisa Craig, Chief of Historic Preservation. Mrs. Whittles choose to be a sponsor of the conference to help spread awareness of flooding issues and be a resource for those who are effected by flooding and water damage. SERVPRO has been a unique added value to WIT and the KHAW group. Their experience in post disaster assistance has helped people understand the long-term effects from flooding and the cost to recover. In partnership with KHAW and WIT Diane and her team are continuing to serve the community in which they hold so dear.
Restoring Your Annapolis/Severna Park Commercial Property after A Water Damage Event
5/24/2016 (Permalink)
Commercial Water Damage Events Present Unique Challenges
Flooding and water damage events at Annapolis or Severna Park commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.
Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges
Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.
About SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park
SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park 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.
Have water damage in your business? Call us today! 410-647-8181
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