When drowning in damage, don't hesitate to call on the expertise of water restoration professionals to save the day in Framingham.
Water damage can strike unexpectedly, wreaking havoc on homes and businesses alike. Whether it's a burst pipe, flooding, or a leaky roof, the aftermath of water damage can be overwhelming. In times like these, it's crucial to have a reliable team of water restoration experts to help salvage your property and restore it to its former glory. Let’s explore the importance of professional water restoration services and why you should trust experts to save the day.
Swift Response to Mitigate Further Damage: When water damage occurs, time is of the essence. The longer the water sits, the more extensive the damage becomes. Professional water restoration experts understand the urgency and respond swiftly to mitigate further damage. Their prompt actions can prevent mold growth, structural issues, and other long-term consequences.
Thorough Assessment and Planning: Water damage restoration is not a one-size-fits-all process. Each case is unique, requiring a thorough assessment of the extent of the damage. Experts carefully examine affected areas, identify potential hazards, and create a customized restoration plan. This ensures that every aspect of the damage is addressed effectively.
State-of-the-Art Equipment and Techniques: Professional water restoration teams are equipped with state-of-the-art tools and techniques to handle water damage efficiently. Industrial-strength water extractors, dehumidifiers, and drying equipment are employed to remove excess water and moisture. This advanced equipment accelerates the drying process and minimizes the risk of secondary damage.
Mold Remediation: One of the significant risks associated with water damage is the growth of mold. Mold can start to develop within 24-48 hours in damp environments. Water restoration experts have the knowledge and experience to identify and eliminate mold, ensuring a safe and healthy living or working environment.
Insurance Liaison and Documentation: Dealing with insurance companies can be a complex and time-consuming process. Water restoration professionals often have experience working with insurance providers. They can assist in documenting the damage, providing accurate assessments, and facilitating a smoother claims process.
Comprehensive Restoration Services: Beyond water extraction and drying, professional restoration services encompass a wide range of tasks. This may include repairing structural damage, restoring damaged belongings, and ensuring the overall safety and functionality of the property. A comprehensive approach ensures that no aspect of the restoration process is overlooked.
Peace of Mind for Homeowners and Business Owners: Facing water damage can be emotionally and mentally draining. Hiring water restoration experts provides peace of mind, knowing that trained professionals are handling the situation. This allows homeowners and business owners to focus on rebuilding and moving forward.
Water damage is a formidable adversary, but with the right team of water restoration experts by your side, recovery is not only possible but efficient. Trusting professionals to handle the restoration process ensures a thorough and effective response, giving you the best chance to salvage your property and move beyond the damage. When drowning in damage, don't hesitate to call on the expertise of water restoration professionals to save the day in Framingham.
SERVPRO Of Framingham is The #1 Choice in Cleanup and Restoration for residential and commercial buildings’ fire, mold, water, and storm damage.
Flames Extinguished, Hopes Rekindled: Top-notch Fire Restoration Services in Framingham
When faced with the aftermath of a fire, trust in the capabilities of fire restoration professionals to guide the way .
A fire can be a devastating event, leaving behind destruction and despair.
When flames are finally extinguished, the process of rebuilding begins. In the aftermath of a fire, the importance of top-notch fire restoration services cannot be overstated. Explore the vital role that professional fire restoration experts play in helping individuals and businesses recover from the ashes and rekindle their hopes.
Immediate Response for Damage Control: The aftermath of a fire requires immediate attention to prevent further damage. Professional fire restoration services understand the urgency and respond promptly. Their swift actions not only mitigate existing damage but also prevent secondary issues such as water damage from firefighting efforts.
Thorough Assessment of Fire Damage: Fire damage is multifaceted, affecting structures, belongings, and the overall safety of the property. Expert fire restoration teams conduct a thorough assessment to identify the extent of the damage. This evaluation guides the development of a comprehensive restoration plan tailored to the unique needs of each case.
Smoke and Soot Removal: Beyond visible fire damage, smoke and soot residues can permeate every corner of a property. Professional restoration services utilize specialized equipment and techniques to remove smoke and soot, ensuring a clean and safe environment for restoration efforts.
Structural Repairs and Reconstruction: Fires can compromise the structural integrity of buildings. Skilled restoration experts are equipped to handle structural repairs and reconstruction, ensuring that the property is not only restored aesthetically but also meets safety standards.
Content Restoration and Cleaning: Belongings affected by fire and smoke require careful restoration. Fire restoration professionals employ advanced cleaning and restoration techniques for salvaging personal items, furniture, and valuables. This can significantly reduce the emotional toll on individuals who have lost cherished possessions.
Odor Elimination: Lingering odors from smoke and fire can persist long after the flames are extinguished. Fire restoration services utilize specialized deodorization methods to eliminate odors effectively, providing a fresh and clean living or working space.
Insurance Coordination and Documentation: Navigating insurance claims after a fire can be complex. Fire restoration experts often assist in coordinating with insurance providers, documenting the damage, and providing accurate assessments. This streamlined process helps expedite the insurance claims process for a faster recovery.
Emotional Support and Guidance: Recovering from a fire is not just about physical restoration; it's also about emotional recovery. Professional fire restoration teams offer support and guidance, helping individuals and families navigate the challenges of rebuilding and rekindling hopes for the future.
In the face of fire, the path to recovery may seem daunting, but with top-notch fire restoration services, flames can be extinguished, and hopes can be rekindled. The expertise, efficiency, and compassion of professional fire restoration experts play a pivotal role in helping individuals and businesses rise from the ashes and rebuild their lives. When faced with the aftermath of a fire, trust in the capabilities of fire restoration professionals to guide the way to a brighter and restored future in Framingham.
SERVPRO Of Framingham is The #1 Choice in Cleanup and Restoration for residential and commercial buildings’ fire, mold, water, and storm damage.
Smoke Signals: Professional Restoration for a Smoke-Free Environment in Framingham
When smoke signals trouble, trust in the expertise of smoke restoration professionals to restore the clarity and purity of your indoor spaces.
Smoke damage can permeate every corner of a property, leaving behind not only visible stains but also lingering odors. Whether it's from a fire, tobacco smoke, or other sources, the impact of smoke on indoor environments can be significant. Learn the importance of professional smoke restoration services in creating a smoke-free environment and restoring the quality of indoor spaces in Framingham.
Understanding the Complex Nature of Smoke Damage: Smoke damage is more than just surface stains; it involves complex interactions between various particles and surfaces. Professional smoke restoration services have a deep understanding of the science behind smoke damage, allowing them to address not only visible signs but also hidden issues such as odor penetration and residue accumulation.
Thorough Assessment of Smoke Damage: Before initiating restoration efforts, experts conduct a thorough assessment of the extent of smoke damage. This includes identifying affected surfaces, materials, and the specific type of smoke residue present. This comprehensive evaluation serves as the foundation for a targeted and effective restoration plan.
Specialized Cleaning Techniques: Smoke restoration professionals employ specialized cleaning techniques to remove smoke residues from surfaces. This may involve dry cleaning, wet cleaning, or abrasive cleaning methods tailored to the type of materials affected. The goal is to restore surfaces to their pre-damage condition without causing further harm.
Odor Elimination Strategies: Lingering smoke odors can persist long after visible damage is addressed. Professional restoration services utilize advanced odor elimination strategies, including ozone treatments, thermal fogging, and specialized deodorizers. These methods neutralize and eliminate odors at the molecular level, ensuring a truly smoke-free environment.
HVAC System Cleaning: Smoke particles can infiltrate HVAC systems, spreading odors and contaminants throughout a property. Smoke restoration experts extend their services to include thorough cleaning of ventilation systems, ductwork, and HVAC components. This ensures that the entire indoor environment is free from smoke-related residues.
Preventing Cross-Contamination: During the restoration process, professionals take measures to prevent cross-contamination to unaffected areas. This involves isolating damaged areas, using containment barriers, and employing air filtration systems to capture and remove airborne smoke particles. These precautions are crucial for preventing the spread of residues to other parts of the property.
Restoring Indoor Air Quality: A key aspect of creating a smoke-free environment is restoring indoor air quality. Professional restoration services focus not only on visible damage but also on improving air quality by removing airborne contaminants and ensuring proper ventilation.
Post-Restoration Inspection and Testing: To guarantee the effectiveness of restoration efforts, professionals conduct post-restoration inspections and testing. This involves evaluating surfaces, conducting air quality tests, and ensuring that all smoke-related issues have been successfully addressed. The final step is to provide clients with the assurance of a thoroughly restored and smoke-free environment.
For individuals and businesses grappling with the aftermath of smoke damage, professional smoke restoration services offer a beacon of hope. By addressing the complex nature of smoke damage, employing specialized cleaning techniques, and implementing comprehensive odor-elimination strategies, these experts play a crucial role in creating a truly smoke-free indoor environment. When smoke signals trouble, trust in the expertise of smoke restoration professionals to restore the clarity and purity of your indoor spaces in Framingham.
SERVPRO Of Framingham is The #1 Choice in Cleanup and Restoration for residential and commercial buildings’ fire, mold, water, and storm damage.
Is Mold a Winter Worry? Exploring Cold-Weather Mold Concerns In Framingham MA.
Regular maintenance, proper ventilation, and moisture control are key to ensuring a healthy and mold-free indoor environment In Framingham MA.
When we think about mold growth, the image of damp, warm environments often comes to mind. However, mold is not a problem exclusive to the summer months.
Winter brings its own set of conditions that can contribute to mold growth in unexpected places. Explore whether mold is a winter worry and discuss the cold-weather concerns that homeowners and businesses should be aware of In Framingham MA.
Condensation and Indoor Humidity:
Cold-Weather Concern: During the winter, temperature differentials between the outdoor and indoor environments can lead to condensation on windows, walls, and other surfaces. This moisture, combined with indoor humidity, creates an environment conducive to mold growth.
Preventive Measures: Maintain indoor humidity levels below 60% and use exhaust fans in areas prone to moisture, such as bathrooms and kitchens. Ensure proper ventilation to reduce condensation on windows.
Ice Dams and Roof Leaks:
Cold-Weather Concern: Ice dams, formed by melting and refreezing snow on roofs, can lead to water infiltration and roof leaks. This moisture, if not addressed promptly, can create conditions favorable for mold growth in attics and ceilings.
Preventive Measures: Properly insulate and ventilate attics to prevent ice dams. Regularly inspect roofs for leaks and promptly address any issues to prevent water damage.
Mold in Heating Systems:
Cold-Weather Concern: Mold can thrive in heating systems, especially in ductwork and on heating coils. As warm air circulates through the system, it can spread mold spores throughout the building.
Preventive Measures: Regularly inspect and clean HVAC systems, including ductwork and coils. Use high-quality air filters and consider professional HVAC maintenance.
Basement Moisture Issues:
Cold-Weather Concern: Cold temperatures can lead to condensation on basement walls and floors. Additionally, melting snow and frozen ground can contribute to moisture entering basements.
Preventive Measures: Seal any cracks in basement walls, ensure proper drainage away from the foundation, and use dehumidifiers to control indoor humidity levels.
Firewood Storage:
Cold-Weather Concern: Storing firewood indoors for winter heating can introduce moisture into the home, creating an environment suitable for mold growth.
Preventive Measures: Store firewood outdoors in a dry, covered area, and only bring in small amounts at a time. Keep firewood away from walls and off the ground.
While mold concerns may not be as prominent in winter as they are in warmer seasons, the cold weather brings its own set of conditions that can contribute to mold growth. By understanding these cold-weather mold concerns and implementing preventive measures, homeowners and businesses can create environments that are less conducive to mold development. Regular maintenance, proper ventilation, and moisture control are key to ensuring a healthy and mold-free indoor environment throughout the winter months In Framingham MA.
Water Can Destroy Your Home. Protect it with Water Damage Restoration in Newton from SERVPRO
Newton homeowners often underestimate the destructive power of water. If uncontrolled, water can wreak havoc on your property, leading to extensive damage that requires costly repairs. When water damage strikes, you need reliable restoration services, such as those offered by our team at SERVPRO. Read on to learn more about the various ways water can damage your home and how our expert services can help protect and restore your property.
The Destructive Power of Water
Water damage can occur in several ways. It might be a sudden incident, like a burst pipe or a natural disaster like a flood. Even gradual issues such as a slow roofing or plumbing leak can cause significant damage when they go unnoticed for extended periods of time. Regardless of the source, the consequences can be severe.
Structural Damage
Excess water weakens the structural integrity of a house in a variety of distinct ways. Wood that forms the framework of many homes can warp and rot when exposed to moisture over time. Drywall, carpet flooring and foundations are also degraded when exposed to water, leading to costly repairs. In severe cases, the safety of the structure can be so compromised that it is considered uninhabitable until appropriate repairs are made.
Mold and Mildew
Mold and mildew thrive in environments with excess water and moisture. Mold not only degrades surfaces, structures and other elements of your home, but also poses a health risk to your family. Exposure to mold can cause respiratory issues, allergies and other problematic conditions, particularly in children, the elderly and those with weakened immune systems.
Electrical Impact
The combination of water and electricity is inherently risky. When water infiltrates electrical systems, result in short circuits. Excessive heat and sparks from these events not only damage associated equipment but pose a serious fire hazard.
SERVPRO To the Rescue
You can prevent the scenarios listed above and preserve the safety and value of your home with professional water remediation from our team at SERVPRO. These services are designed to mitigate the effects of water damage and restore your home to ‘make it like it never happened’.
Immediate Response
Water doesn’t wait. The longer it sits, the worse the damage becomes. At SERVPRO, we understand that time is of the essence when it comes to remediation services. We are ready to respond to your emergency 24/. Tackling the issue right away helps minimize impact and reduce restoration costs.
From Assessment to All Dry
The moment we arrive, our team of experienced professionals begin conducting a thorough assessment. We use advanced equipment to detect hidden moisture and determine the extent of the damage. These efforts form the basis of a comprehensive restoration plan, which is customized to meet the specific needs of your property.
Water Removal and Drying
Removing standing water is the first step towards restoring your home to its former glory. We utilize powerful pumps and vacuum units for this purpose. Once the water has been removed, the drying process begins. Our industrial-grade dehumidifiers and air movers ensure moisture is eliminated in a quick and efficient manner – so that mildew and mold infestations cannot take hold.
Cleaning and Sanitizing
Water damage often leaves behind unsightly and unsterile dirt and bacteria. You can count on our SERVPRO’s team will clean and sanitize the affected areas, using specialized techniques and antimicrobial treatments to ensure your home is safe and healthy to inhabit.
Final Restoration
Our mission is to restore your home to its original condition. From minor fixes, like replacing drywall and installing new carpet, to major repairs, such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in the home – we have you covered.
The SERVPRO Advantage
Choosing SERVPRO for water damage restoration in Newton offers several advantages:
Expertise and Education: With years of experience, our team of professionals are skilled in handling all types of water damage. Our commitment to best practices is reflected in our coveted IICRC certification status.
Advanced Technology: We use cutting-edge equipment to detect moisture, drying, and dehumidifying. Infrared cameras, hydrometers, gas-powered pumps, portable extraction units, high-speed air movers and industrial grade dehumidifiers are just a few tools of the trade we rely on.
Comprehensive Service: From the moment we are called to the final touches of restoration, we manage every aspect of your restoration with meticulous attention to detail. This comprehensive service begins with a thorough assessment, followed by a strategic plan to meet the specific requirements of the property. We can even help with documentation of damage and correspondence with insurance providers.
Conclusion
Water damage can be a devastating experience for Newton homeowners. However, with quick response and expert services from SERVPRO, the impact can be significantly mitigated. Prompt, professional water damage restoration is key to protecting your home and ensuring it remains a safe and comfortable place for you and your family. Remember, in the face of water damage, quick action and expert intervention are your best defenses. If you are experiencing water damage, reach out to our team today.
Mold Can Destroy Your Business Reputation and Your Bottom Line. Mold Prevention and Remediation Tips for Newton Businesses from SERVPRO
With all the various challenges that face Newton business owners, the issue of mold can often go overlooked. Don’t make this critical mistake. Mold can degrade the structural integrity of your building, the health of employees and clients and degrade your reputation in the community. As such, understanding the causes of mold, how to prevent it and remediation strategies is vital for any business owner. In this guide, you’ll get a concise overview of prevention and remediation tips from SERVPRO® to tackle this silent yet potentially destructive issue.
An Unwelcomed Guest to Your Business
Mold is a type of fungus that grows in moist environments. It is commonly found on materials like wood, paper and carpeting. Telltale signs of mold include a musty odor or visible discolored patches. The presence of mold in a business setting is alarming due to its potential health risks, which range from mild allergic reactions to respiratory issues to severe conditions like invasive infestations in immunocompromised people and hypersensitivity pneumonitis. Additionally, mold can cause significant property damage, leading to expensive repairs and lost revenue stemming from interruptions in business continuity.
Understanding the conditions that foster its growth can help you prevent an infestation. Mold spores are everywhere, but they require specific conditions to become problematic. These include moisture and humidity from leaks, flooding as well as inadequate ventilation. Kitchens and bathrooms are a few commonly effected areas – especially when they are located near organic materials that mold feeds on, such as wood and paper.
DIY Techniques to Stop the Spread
The best way to address mold risks at your Newton business is by taking a proactive approach. When possible, use mold-resistant materials in construction and renovations. We also recommend focusing on controlling the environmental factors that foster mold growth. For example, maintaining indoor humidity levels between 30% and 50%, using tools like dehumidifiers and air conditioners, especially in climates prone to humidity can be highly effective. Another important factor is proper ventilation in moisture-heavy areas. You should also regularly check for and repair leaks as well as ensure that gutters and downspouts are clean. Promptly drying and sterilizing any wet areas within 24 to 48 can prevent mold from establishing itself.
When Mold Hits Hard SERVPRO Strikes Back
In instances where mold has already taken hold, swift professional intervention is critical. SERVPRO’s approach to mold remediation involves a series of carefully executed steps. Initially, we conduct a thorough inspection to assess mold damage, followed by containment measures to prevent its spread. Specialized air filtration equipment is then employed to capture microscopic mold spores from the air. Our remediation process also encompasses the safe removal and disposal of materials that are infested with mold. Furniture, curtains and other effected items are thoroughly cleaned. In some extreme cases, removing and replacing materials like drywall and subfloors may be necessary.
As a business owner, the responsibility to protect your investment, your employees and your clients from the hazards of mold cannot be overstated. Preemptive actions, like assessing your premises, implementing prevention strategies and educating your team can shield you from significant hardships. If you do encounter mold, or suspect its presence, don't hesitate to contact our team of professionals at SERVPRO of Framingham. We will provide a comprehensive evaluation and remediation to get your Newton organization back to business as soon as possible.
Every Moment Matters With Mold: Call SERVPRO for Emergency Remediation in Wellesley, Massachusetts
Though often overlooked, mold is a major cause for concern of homeowners and businesses alike. In New England towns like Wellesley, Massachusetts, with variable weather conditions and a variety of diverse architecture, the issue of mold infestation is especially urgent. When it comes to dealing with mold, timing is everything. That is why SERVPRO®, a leader in emergency remediation, is your go-to solution in Wellesley.
Understanding the Urgency
Sure, fungi like mold are living organism that play a significant role in the natural environment. However, when they find their way into your home or business, they can become a health hazard and a structural nightmare. Mold spores are virtually imperceptible and everywhere. They can enter your Wellesley property through doors, windows, HVAC systems as well as clothing and pets. Once inside, mold spores thrive on moisture and can quickly grow into colonies. That is why mold problems must be addressed right away.
How Mold Effects Your Health
The health effects of mold can range from slightly inconvenient to severely debilitating. For some, exposure to mold simply causes nasal stuffiness, throat irritation, coughing or wheezing, and eye irritation. People with mold allergies, chronic lung illnesses or who are immunocompromised may have more severe reactions like invasive infestation and hypersensitivity pneumonitis. In communities like Wellesley, where the population is a diverse blend of families, elderly residents and students, the health implications of mold are a significant concern.
Property Value and Structural Safety Concerns
Mold isn’t just bad for the body. It can also cause serious structural damage to your property. This is largely due to the fact that mold feeds on organic materials that are used in construction like wood, paper, carpeting and insulation. In doing so, it breaks them down and weakens the structural integrity of your home or business. Over time, unchecked mold growth can lead to costly repairs and decrease the overall value of your property.
Your Trusted Partner for Rapid Mold Remediation
When faced with a mold situation, quick and effective professional intervention is crucial. That is where our team at SERVPRO comes in. Renowned for our expertise in emergency remediation, we offer comprehensive solutions for tackling mold problems. Our customers count on us to deliver:
Rapid Response – Time is of the essence in mold remediation, and we understand this. Our 24/7 emergency response service ensures that our team is there for your when you need us most. By addressing the issue immediately we help prevent the spread of mold to minimize damage and remediation costs.
Expertise and Experience – Our team of experts are highly trained in mold remediation. We understand the science behind mold growth and apply this knowledge to develop and implement a personalized remediation plan for your home or business. We take pride in our IICRC certification status, which reflects our commitment to best practices in the remediation process.
Advanced Technology and Techniques – Skilled application of advanced technology and techniques, enables our team to effectively identify mold sources, then eradicate it. air scrubbers, HEPA vacuums and dehumidifiers are just a few of the powerful tools we use to remove mold spores from the air and control the moisture levels within your property. In doing so, we can eliminate the current mold infestation while preventing future occurrences.
Additional Moisture Control – Removing mold is just the start. We also address the source of moisture that allowed mold to grow in the first place. Common culprits include leaky pipe and roofing, clogged sinks that overflow and condensation from HVAC units. This comprehensive approach ensures that the problem is solved at its root, preventing recurrence.
If you suspect your Wellesley home or business has a mold problem, don’t let it get any worse. Reach out to our team at SERVPRO of Framingham for a fast and effective solution. We are ready to ‘make it like it never happened’ everyday of the week, at all hours of the day and night.
Understanding the Different Types of Fire and Smoke Damage In Framingham MA.
Restoration professionals play a crucial role in assessing and mitigating damages In Framingham MA.
Facing a fire is a devastating experience, and the aftermath involves not only the visible destruction caused by flames but also the pervasive impact of smoke.
Fire and smoke damage can vary widely, and understanding the different types is crucial for effective restoration and recovery. Here we will explore the various types of fire and smoke damage and the challenges associated with each.
Structural Damage:
Description: Structural damage is the most apparent consequence of a fire, affecting walls, floors, ceilings, and other building components.
Causes: Direct exposure to flames, high temperatures, and the structural integrity of materials being compromised during a fire.
Challenges: Assessing and repairing structural damage often requires collaboration between structural engineers, contractors, and restoration specialists.
Soot Damage:
Description: Soot is a fine, black residue composed of carbon particles produced by incomplete combustion. It can cover surfaces and belongings, leaving behind a distinct odor and staining.
Causes: Incomplete combustion of organic materials during a fire, releasing fine particles that settle on surfaces.
Challenges: Cleaning soot requires specialized techniques and equipment to prevent smearing and further damage.
Smoke Damage:
Description: Smoke damage encompasses the impact of smoke on surfaces, belongings, and indoor air quality. It often manifests as discoloration, odors, and corrosive residues.
Causes: The complex mixture of gases, chemicals, and particles released during a fire that adhere to surfaces and materials.
Challenges: Proper ventilation, air purification, and targeted cleaning are essential to address smoke damage comprehensively.
Water Damage:
Description: Water damage is a secondary consequence of firefighting efforts, as water is used to extinguish flames. It can lead to issues such as mold growth and structural deterioration.
Causes: Firefighters' efforts to extinguish the fire using water or other suppressants.
Challenges: Swift water extraction, drying, and dehumidification are critical to prevent further damage and mitigate the risk of mold growth.
Corrosion Damage:
Description: Corrosion occurs when acidic byproducts of combustion react with metals, leading to deterioration and discoloration.
Causes: Interaction between acidic residues in smoke and metal surfaces.
Challenges: Prompt cleaning and treatment of metal surfaces to prevent irreversible corrosion damage.
Odor Damage:
Description: Lingering odors are a common issue after a fire, caused by the combustion of various materials.
Causes: Absorption of smoke particles into porous surfaces, making odors difficult to eliminate.
Challenges: Odor removal requires specialized techniques, such as ozone treatment or thermal fogging, to neutralize and eliminate persistent smells.
Dealing with the aftermath of a fire involves addressing various types of damage, each requiring specific expertise and techniques. Restoration professionals play a crucial role in assessing and mitigating these damages, helping individuals and businesses rebuild and recover from the devastating effects of fire and smoke. Understanding the nuances of different types of fire and smoke damage is a key step in the restoration process, ensuring a comprehensive and effective approach to recovery In Framingham MA.
Electrical Fire Safety: Protecting Your Home and Business In Framingham MA.
Stay informed, stay safe, and empower others with the knowledge needed to prevent electrical fires In Framingham MA.
Electricity is an integral part of our daily lives, powering our homes and businesses. However, it comes with inherent risks, and electrical fires pose a serious threat to both life and property.
Understanding electrical fire safety is crucial for minimizing these risks and ensuring the well-being of occupants. Let’s explore key measures to enhance electrical fire safety at home and in the workplace.
Common Causes of Electrical Fires:
Faulty Wiring: Aging or improperly installed wiring can lead to electrical fires. Regular inspections and maintenance are essential to identify and rectify potential issues.
Overloaded Circuits: Plugging too many devices into a single outlet or overloading circuits can generate excessive heat, leading to sparks and fires. Distribute electrical loads evenly and avoid daisy-chaining multiple power strips.
Malfunctioning Appliances: Appliances with damaged cords or internal components can become fire hazards. Regularly inspect and replace damaged cords, and follow manufacturer guidelines for maintenance.
Electrical Equipment Issues: Faulty electrical equipment, such as circuit breakers or outlets, can contribute to electrical fires. Ensure that all electrical components are in good working condition and promptly address any malfunctions.
Flammable Materials Near Outlets: Placing flammable materials, such as curtains or paper, near electrical outlets or equipment increases the risk of fire. Keep these areas clear to minimize potential hazards.
Electrical Fire Safety Tips for Homes and Businesses:
Regular Inspections and Maintenance: Schedule regular inspections of your electrical system, especially in older homes or buildings. Look for signs of wear and tear, exposed wires, or scorch marks. Hire a qualified electrician to address any issues promptly.
Avoid Overloading Circuits: Be mindful of the number of devices plugged into outlets, and avoid overloading circuits. Use power strips with built-in surge protection to safeguard against voltage spikes.
Proper Use of Extension Cords: Extension cords should only be used temporarily. Avoid using them as permanent solutions, and never daisy-chain multiple extension cords together.
Upgrade Wiring and Electrical Panels: If your home or business has outdated wiring or electrical panels, consider upgrading to meet current safety standards. This can significantly reduce the risk of electrical fires.
Appliance Safety: Regularly check appliances for signs of damage and replace frayed or worn-out cords. Follow manufacturer guidelines for maintenance, and avoid leaving appliances unattended when in use.
Install Smoke Alarms: Ensure that smoke alarms are installed in key areas of your home or business. Regularly test and replace batteries to guarantee their functionality.
Emergency Response Plan: Develop and communicate an emergency response plan that includes procedures for dealing with electrical fires. Ensure that all occupants are aware of evacuation routes and the location of fire extinguishers.
Electrical fire safety is a shared responsibility that requires diligence and proactive measures. By staying vigilant, conducting regular inspections, and implementing safety measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of electrical fires at home and in the workplace. Remember, prioritizing electrical safety not only protects property but, more importantly, ensures the safety and well-being of the people in your care. Stay informed, stay safe, and empower others with the knowledge needed to prevent electrical fires In Framingham MA.
Does Your Business Have a Fire Evacuation Plan In Framingham MA?
Safety should always be at the forefront of your business priorities in Framingham MA.
In the fast-paced world of business, it's easy to get caught up in the daily grind and overlook crucial aspects of workplace safety.
One such critical component that often takes a backseat is a comprehensive fire evacuation plan. While we hope that disasters never strike, being prepared for the worst can make a significant difference in safeguarding your employees, clients, and assets. Learn the importance of having a fire evacuation plan for your business and the steps you can take to ensure the safety of everyone involved.
The Importance of a Fire Evacuation Plan:
Protecting Lives and Assets: The primary purpose of a fire evacuation plan is to ensure the swift and safe evacuation of everyone in the building in the event of a fire. Lives are irreplaceable, and having a well-thought-out plan can minimize the risk of injuries or fatalities. Additionally, it helps protect valuable assets and sensitive information that are crucial for the continuity of your business.
Legal Compliance: Many jurisdictions mandate that businesses have a fire evacuation plan in place. Compliance with local fire safety regulations is not just a legal requirement but also a moral obligation to prioritize the well-being of your employees and visitors. Failure to adhere to these regulations can result in severe consequences, including fines and legal actions.
Maintaining Business Continuity: While the immediate concern during a fire is the safety of individuals, having a solid evacuation plan can also contribute to maintaining business continuity. A well-prepared plan ensures that essential operations can resume as quickly as possible after the incident, minimizing disruptions and potential financial losses.
Steps to Develop an Effective Fire Evacuation Plan:
Conduct a Risk Assessment: Start by identifying potential fire hazards within your premises. This could include electrical equipment, flammable materials, or inadequate fire prevention measures. Understanding these risks is the first step in developing a targeted evacuation plan.
Establish Clear Evacuation Routes: Designate primary and alternative evacuation routes, ensuring that they are well-lit, unobstructed, and easily accessible. Consider the specific needs of individuals with disabilities and make provisions to assist them during evacuations.
Implement an Emergency Communication System: Establish a robust communication system to alert occupants of a fire promptly. This may include fire alarms, intercoms, or other notification methods. Regularly test and maintain these systems to ensure they function correctly when needed.
Assign Responsibilities: Clearly define the roles and responsibilities of designated personnel during a fire evacuation. This includes individuals responsible for sounding alarms, guiding occupants to safety, and ensuring a headcount at assembly points.
Conduct Regular Drills and Training: Practice makes perfect. Conduct fire evacuation drills regularly to familiarize employees with evacuation procedures and exit routes. Provide training on fire safety, including the proper use of firefighting equipment, to empower individuals to respond effectively in an emergency.
A fire evacuation plan is not just a document to be tucked away on a shelf; it's a dynamic and living strategy that can make a significant difference in the face of a crisis. Prioritizing the safety of your employees and visitors through a well-executed plan not only fulfills legal obligations but also reflects a commitment to the well-being of the people who contribute to the success of your business. Take the time to review and update your fire evacuation plan regularly, ensuring that everyone in your organization is prepared to respond swiftly and decisively in the event of a fire emergency.
Remember, safety should always be at the forefront of your business priorities in Framingham MA.
Does Mold Have a Hold on Your Newton Home? Break Free with Mold Remediation in Newton from our team at SERVPRO.
Mold is a natural part of our environment, but when it finds its way into your home, it can quickly become a problem. It thrives in damp and humid conditions, which unfortunately positions New England communities like Newton as ideal breeding grounds. Once mold takes hold, it can spread rapidly, often unseen behind walls or under flooring. This hidden growth can lead to serious structural damage if left unchecked.
However, structural issues are just the tip of the iceberg. Mold can also pose significant health risks. For example, allergies, asthma and other respiratory issues, are just a few issues that can be triggered by mold exposure. If you need mold remediation in Newton, look no further. At SERVPRO Framingham, we are dedicated to helping local homeowners break free from the clutches of mold.
‘Does My Home Have a Mold Problem?’ What to Look For.
When it comes to mold, every moment matters. As such, it is crucial to stay on the lookout for common signs. One clear indicator is visible mold growth, which manifests as fuzzy of slimly patches in various colors such as black, green or white. Another telltale sign is a musty odor characterized by an unpleasant, earthy smell. Take note of recent water damage in your home, whether from leaks, floods or high humidity, as these conditions provide an ideal environment for mold to thrive. Additionally, pay attention to any unexplained health issues experienced by you or your family members, such as coughing, sneezing, skin rashes or eye irritation, as these symptoms could be indicative of mold exposure.
Freedom From Mold Starts Here
Our mold remediation process begins with a thorough inspection and assessment of your property to identify the extent of the infestation. We use infrared cameras, moisture meters and other advanced tools to detect hidden mold and moisture sources. From there, we establish containment barriers to prevent the spread of mold spores, ensuring the problem doesn't worsen. Our skilled technicians safely remove mold colonies using proven techniques while also addressing the source of moisture to prevent future growth.
After our initial efforts, we meticulously clean and sanitize affected areas, with specialized equipment and commercial-grade cleaning agents. We make repairs to drywall, flooring and other impacted features in cases of structural damage as well. You can also count on us to provide professional advice to prevent future mold problems, such as improving ventilation, addressing leaks and maintaining appropriate humidity levels in your Newton home.
Don’t Hesitate, Remediate
Reach out to our dedicated team today for tailored, professional mold remediation services for your home. No matter when crisis strikes, we are here to help – responding 24/7 to local mold emergencies. With decades of experience on our side providing mold remediation services in Chestnut Hill, Auburndale and Waban, as well as other Newton villages and beyond – we are prepared to take on projects of every size and level of technical complexity. Our use of cutting-edge technology and proven techniques ensure consistent results. As a truly full-service mold remediation company, you can even turn to us for assistance navigating insurance claims.
Don't Let Flooding Put a Damper on Your Newton Business. Call Our Team for the Best Commercial Water Damage Team in Newton
Don't Let Flooding Put a Damper on Your Newton Business. Call Our Team for the Best Commercial Water Damage Team in Newton
Whether it be from a burst pipe, leaky roof or sudden downpour, water damage can hit any business, at any time. Wet carpets, drenched documents and other forms of fallout are more than an inconvenience. Companies that experience water damage can face significant impacts to their bottom lines, due to extended business interruption, reduced customer confidence, employee health concerns and other serious issues.
When members of Newton’s business community and proprietors in the surrounding area need water remediation services, they rely on our team at SERVPRO Framingham. We’ve built our reputation amongst local companies on a foundation of consistent results, exceptional value and personalized customer service.
Your Business’ Water Emergency is Our Top Priority
When water damage hits your place of business, time is of the essence. Every moment that your doors are closed means lost revenue as well as wasted resources. Additionally, the sooner your problem is addressed, the less damage it will cause. That is why we offer 24/7 response to water emergencies. As soon as you make the call, our expert team will be on their way to promptly assess the situation and start the restoration process.
Expert Water Damage Remediation Professionals
Speed isn't our only strength. At SERVPRO Framingham, we are experts in the field of water damage restoration. Each member of our team stays up-to-date with the latest industry procedures by maintaining current certificates from the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification. We apply our in-depth knowledge to effectively take on water damage in commercial properties of all sizes – from modest family restaurants and retailers to towering office buildings, hotels and more.
Tools of the Trade: Our Cutting-Edge Equipment
Through the use of top-notch equipment and industry-leading techniques, we completely remove standing water, thoroughly dry your property and prevent mold growth – all to ensure a safe and healthy environment for your team and customers. Industrial fans, pumps, vacuums and dehumidifiers are just a few of the commercial grade tools that we use to bring your business environment back to its former state. From there, we use infrared cameras, moisture meters and other diagnostics to prevent hidden pockets of moisture from causing more damage or facilitating mold growth.
Seamless Business Recovery Solutions
We understand the importance of your business’ presence in Newton’s tight-knit community. We work diligently to minimize disruption to your operations, planning each step of the restoration process carefully and keeping you informed throughout. This ensures minimal downtime and a smooth return to normalcy, so you can keep serving clients and customers. You can even count on us to provide insurance-related assistance to further expedite the process.
‘Tis The Season for Broken Pipes and Water Damage in Wellesley. Contact Our Wellesley Water Damage Remediation Team
Residential Water Damage in Wellesley, Massachusetts
As thermometers drops and days grow shorter, Wellesley homeowners begin to settle in for the cozy winter months ahead. However, amidst the anticipation of snowflakes and hot cocoa, there is a less cheerful winter tradition that many overlook: burst pipes and other seasonal water damage. This is where our team at SERVPRO Framingham steps in. You can count on our water damage remediation team to make your home warm and dry again, following such unfortunate circumstances.
Understanding the Risk
In Wellesley, as in many parts of New England, the winter brings with it frigid temperatures. This seasonal change can be particularly harsh on your plumbing. Water inside your pipes can freeze, and as it does, it expands, leading to cracks or even burst pipes. The aftermath? Significant water damage that can affect your home’s structural integrity, ruin your precious belongings and even pose health hazards due to mold growth. But don’t worry. Our team at SERVPRO Framingham is here to help.
Local Water Remediation Experts
Because we live and work in the region ourselves, we are acutely aware of the challenges that Wellesley homeowners face during New England’s harsh winter months. Our expert team of IICRC-certified technicians, is well-versed in managing various water damage scenarios, including slow leaks, sudden pipe bursts, weather-related flooding and more. Leveraging our local presence, we are able to provide rapid response to your emergency. Our team of experienced technicians are on-call 24/7 to address the source of excess water and minimize further damage.
Our Proven Process
Once we arrive on the scene, our experts conduct a detailed inspection, then devise an effective remediation strategy. From there, we begin the water extraction phase. Our powerful pumps and vacuums can rapidly remove hundreds of gallons of water from your home. We then move to drying and dehumidification. Using infrared cameras, moisture meters and other specialized equipment, we confirm that your property is completely dry. The last step is to restore your home to its pre-damaged state by repairing flooring, drywall and other effected features. We can even assist with handling insurance claims.
Helpful Hints to Preserve Your Property
Once your home is safe and dry again, we will provide you with tips to keep it that way. For example, we often recommend that homeowners in Wellesley insulate their pipes to prevent freezing – especially in unheated basements, attics and garages. It is also worth familiarizing yourself with the location and operation of your water main. Quickly cutting the flow of water to your home after a pipe bursts can make a major difference in how much damage is caused. Other important preventative measures include gutter maintenance, regular roof inspections and installing leak detection systems.
Don’t let water damage ruin the most wonderful time of the year. When the unforeseen strikes your Wellesley home, reach out to our water damage remediation team at SERVPRO Framingham. We are committed to making it “Like it never even happened.”
Commercial Water Damage Restoration Specialists in Framingham, MA.
Commercial water damage restoration specialists are the unsung heroes who navigate the chaos left in the wake of water-related disasters.
Water damage is a silent menace that can wreak havoc on commercial properties, causing not only physical destruction but also financial and operational setbacks.
When disaster strikes, commercial water damage restoration specialists emerge as the unsung heroes, working diligently behind the scenes to restore normalcy. Let’s explore the vital role these specialists play and why their expertise is crucial in the aftermath of water-related emergencies in Framingham, MA.
The Silent Menace: Water damage is a pervasive issue that can stem from various sources, including burst pipes, flooding, leaks, or natural disasters. Commercial properties are particularly vulnerable, as the consequences of water damage extend beyond the visible destruction. Mold growth, structural compromise, and damage to valuable assets can lead to significant financial losses if not addressed promptly and effectively.
The Role of Commercial Water Damage Restoration Specialists:
Swift Response and Assessment: Commercial water damage restoration specialists understand the importance of time in mitigating water-related disasters. Their prompt response is crucial to assess the extent of the damage and formulate an effective restoration plan. Timely action can prevent secondary damage and reduce the overall impact on the property.
Advanced Equipment and Techniques: These specialists are equipped with state-of-the-art tools and technology designed to efficiently extract water, dehumidify affected areas, and restore the property to its pre-damage condition. From powerful water pumps to industrial-grade dehumidifiers, they leverage advanced equipment to expedite the restoration process.
Meticulous Restoration Planning: Every water damage scenario is unique, requiring a customized restoration plan. Commercial water damage restoration specialists meticulously assess the situation, identifying the best course of action for each specific case. This planning involves considerations for structural integrity, potential mold growth, and salvaging valuable assets.
Expertise in Mold Remediation: One of the major concerns following water damage is the risk of mold growth. Commercial water damage restoration specialists are well-versed in mold remediation techniques, ensuring that the affected areas are thoroughly cleaned and treated to prevent future infestations. This expertise is vital for maintaining a safe and healthy working environment.
Coordination with Stakeholders: Effective communication and coordination with property owners, insurance providers, and other stakeholders are integral to the restoration process. Commercial water damage restoration specialists act as liaisons, providing transparent updates and ensuring that all parties involved are informed about the progress and next steps.
Commercial water damage restoration specialists are the unsung heroes who navigate the chaos left in the wake of water-related disasters. Their expertise, advanced equipment, and commitment to swift, efficient restoration play a pivotal role in minimizing the impact on businesses and communities. By acknowledging and appreciating the indispensable work of these specialists, we can better understand the value they bring to the table and the importance of their role in safeguarding commercial properties from the silent menace of water damage in in Framingham, MA.
SERVPRO Of Framingham is The #1 Choice in Cleanup and Restoration commercial buildings’ fire damage.
Critical Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Home Restoration Professional in Framingham, MA.
Choosing the right home restoration professional involves thorough research and asking the right questions.
Whether you're dealing with damage from a natural disaster, or a fire, or simply looking to upgrade and renovate your space, finding the right home restoration professional is crucial.
Hiring the wrong contractor can lead to delays, cost overruns, and subpar results. To ensure a successful and smooth restoration process, it's essential to ask the right questions before making a decision in Framingham, MA.
Here are key questions to ask when hiring a home restoration professional.
Are you licensed and insured? Ensuring that the home restoration professional is licensed and insured is non-negotiable. A valid license demonstrates that the contractor has met the necessary requirements and regulations. Insurance, on the other hand, protects you and the workers in case of accidents or damages during the project.
What experience do you have in home restoration? Experience matters. Inquire about the contractor's specific experience with home restoration projects similar to yours. A seasoned professional is more likely to handle unexpected challenges and deliver quality workmanship.
Can you provide references from past clients? A reputable home restoration professional should have no qualms about sharing references from previous clients. Contacting these references allows you to gain insights into the contractor's work ethic, reliability, and the overall satisfaction of past customers.
What is the estimated timeline for the project? Clearly defining the timeline for your home restoration project is crucial. Delays can be frustrating and costly. Ask the contractor for a detailed timeline, including milestones and potential challenges, to ensure everyone is on the same page.
How do you handle permits and regulatory approvals? Home restoration projects often require permits and compliance with local regulations. Ensure that the contractor is well-versed in obtaining the necessary permits and approvals to avoid legal issues down the line.
What is the total cost and payment schedule? Discussing the cost upfront is essential to avoid surprises later on. Ask for a detailed breakdown of the estimated costs, including materials and labor. Additionally, establish a clear payment schedule tied to project milestones.
Do you provide a written contract? A written contract is a must-have for any home restoration project. It should include all the details discussed, such as the scope of work, timeline, costs, and any warranties. A contract protects both you and the contractor, providing a reference point in case of disputes.
What safety measures do you have in place during the project? Safety is paramount in any construction project. Inquire about the contractor's safety protocols, including measures to protect your property and the workers involved. This is especially crucial in hazardous restoration situations.
How do you communicate with clients throughout the project? Communication is key for a successful home restoration project. Ask the contractor about their preferred communication channels, frequency of updates, and who will be your primary point of contact.
What warranties do you offer on your work? A reputable home restoration professional should stand by their work. Inquire about the warranties or guarantees they provide on materials and labor to ensure that you're covered in case of any issues post-completion.
Choosing the right home restoration professional involves thorough research and asking the right questions. By delving into the contractor's qualifications, experience, and approach to the project, you can make an informed decision that paves the way for a successful and stress-free home restoration experience in Framingham, MA.
SERVPRO Of Framingham is The #1 Choice in Cleanup and Restoration for residential buildings’ fire damage.
What to Do in the Event of a Fire in Framingham, MA
Being prepared for a fire emergency involves a combination of education, awareness, and practice.
Fires are unpredictable and can escalate rapidly, posing a serious threat to life and property. Whether at home, work, or in public spaces, being prepared and knowing what to do in the event of a fire can make all the difference. Read for practical guidance on how to respond calmly and effectively when faced with a fire emergency in Framingham, MA
Stay Calm and Alert:
The first and most crucial step in any emergency situation is to stay calm. Panic can hinder clear thinking and swift decision-making. If you discover a fire or hear a fire alarm, remain calm, and alert those around you. Time is of the essence in fire emergencies, and a composed mindset can help you take the necessary actions quickly.
Evacuate Immediately:
Your safety and the safety of others should be the top priority. If the fire is small and manageable, use an appropriate fire extinguisher to try and control it. However, if the fire is spreading or you feel unsafe, leave the area immediately. Do not waste time gathering belongings; evacuate as quickly as possible.
Follow Exit Routes:
In public places or buildings, familiarize yourself with exit routes and emergency exits. During a fire, follow these routes calmly and assist others who may need help, especially those with mobility issues or disabilities. Avoid using elevators during a fire; use stairwells instead.
Crawl Low in Smoke:
Smoke inhalation is a major risk during a fire. If smoke is present, stay close to the ground where the air is clearer. Smoke rises, and by crawling low, you can reduce the risk of inhaling harmful gases and increase your chances of reaching safety.
Call for Help:
Once you are safely outside the building, call emergency services immediately. Provide them with accurate information about the location and nature of the fire. Avoid re-entering the building unless instructed by emergency personnel.
Assemble at a Designated Meeting Point:
In residential complexes or workplaces, establish a designated meeting point a safe distance from the building. This ensures that everyone can be quickly accounted for and that emergency responders have accurate information about who may still be inside.
Do Not Re-enter the Building:
Under no circumstances should you re-enter a building that is on fire. Let trained firefighters handle the situation. Re-entering a burning building is extremely dangerous and can lead to severe injuries or loss of life.
Follow Fire Prevention Measures:
Preventing fires is just as crucial as knowing how to respond to them. Regularly check smoke detectors, electrical systems, and heating appliances. Avoid overloading electrical outlets and practice safe cooking habits. Being proactive in fire prevention can significantly reduce the risk of a fire breaking out.
Being prepared for a fire emergency involves a combination of education, awareness, and practice. By staying calm, evacuating quickly, and following established safety procedures, you can protect yourself and others from the dangers of a fire. Regularly reviewing and practicing these steps ensures that you are ready to respond effectively in the event of a fire, making a significant contribution to overall community safety.
SERVPRO of Framingham is The #1 Choice in Cleanup and Restoration for residential and commercial buildings’ fire damage.
Understanding Water and Mold Damage from Winter Pipe Breaks in Framingham, MA.
Winter pipe breaks and the subsequent water and mold damage can be a homeowner's nightmare.
As winter blankets the world in a serene layer of snow, it also brings forth the potential for a less picturesque, yet all too common, issue: frozen pipes. The frigid temperatures can wreak havoc on plumbing systems, leading to pipe breaks that result in water damage and, subsequently, mold growth. Read about the causes of winter pipe breaks, the consequences of water damage, and effective measures to prevent and mitigate the aftermath in Framingham, MA.
Understanding Winter Pipe Breaks:
Freezing Temperatures: The most common cause of winter pipe breaks is freezing temperatures. When water inside pipes freezes, it expands, putting immense pressure on the pipe walls. This increased pressure can lead to cracks, bursts, or even complete ruptures in the plumbing system.
Poor Insulation: Inadequate insulation around pipes increases the likelihood of freezing. Exposed pipes in attics, basements, or crawl spaces are particularly vulnerable. Proper insulation helps maintain a consistent temperature and protects pipes from the harsh winter cold.
Consequences of Winter Pipe Breaks:
Water Damage: A burst pipe can release a significant amount of water into your home or business, causing extensive damage to walls, floors, and belongings. Swift action is crucial to prevent further harm and reduce repair costs.
Mold Growth: Once water is introduced into the equation, the risk of mold growth skyrockets. Mold thrives in damp, humid environments, and the aftermath of a pipe break provides the perfect breeding ground.
Preventing and Mitigating Water Damage:
Insulate Pipes: Ensure all pipes, especially those in vulnerable areas, are properly insulated. This helps maintain a consistent temperature and reduces the risk of freezing.
Keep Interior Spaces Warm: Maintain a warm environment within your home or business, especially in areas with exposed pipes. This can be achieved through proper heating and insulation.
Drip Faucets: During extremely cold nights, allow faucets to drip slowly. This keeps water flowing, reducing the likelihood of pipes freezing.
Seal Leaks: Regularly inspect and seal any leaks in your home's structure. Even small leaks can lead to significant problems when temperatures drop.
Emergency Plan: Have an emergency plan in place. Know the location of your main water shut-off valve and how to turn it off quickly. This can help minimize damage in the event of a pipe break.
Winter pipe breaks and the subsequent water and mold damage can be a homeowner's nightmare. However, with proper precautions and a proactive approach to maintenance, you can significantly reduce the risk of such incidents. Remember, prevention is key, but in the unfortunate event of a pipe break, swift action is crucial to mitigate the damage and protect your home from the harsh consequences of winter's icy grip.
SERVPRO Of Framingham is The #1 Choice in Cleanup and Restoration for residential and commercial buildings’ water damage.
Maintain a Mold-Free Business Environment: Call SERVPRO for Commercial Mold Remediation in Ashland
Commercial Mold Remediation in Ashland, Massachusetts
An unseen challenge that business owners in Ashland, Massachusetts often confront is the menace of mold. This insidious intruder, often lurking where we least expect it, can not only damage property but also pose significant health risks. Addressing this issue head-on is vital for maintaining a healthy, safe and productive business environment. This is where SERVPRO of Framingham steps in, offering unparalleled expertise in commercial mold remediation.
Mold thrives in moist environments, often growing undetected in hidden nooks and crannies of your commercial property. When you discover it, don’t ignore the problem. People who use your space can experience respiratory difficulties, allergic reactions, aggravated asthma, skin and eye irritation, sinus infections, fatigue and more. The implications are not just health-related but also financial, as unchecked mold growth can lead to costly repairs. When mold is left untreated, it has the potential to wreak havoc on the structural integrity of your building – from the roof rot to foundation damage and everything in between.
At SERVPRO of Framingham, we understand the unique challenges that mold presents to businesses in Ashland. With deep roots in the community and years of experience providing top-notch mold remediation services, we approach each case with a tailored strategy. Whether it’s a quaint cafe, a bustling retail shop or an expansive office complex, we adapt our services to meet the specific needs and schedules of our clients, ensuring minimal disruption to daily operations.
Removing unsightly surface mold is just the start. We investigate to identify the underlying causes of mold growth, then address them using state-of-the art equipment to ensure a long-term solution rather than just a quick fix. High-powered air scrubbers, HEPA vacuums and odor removing foggers are just a few tools we use to deliver consistently flawless results. Our team of professionals is also equipped with the latest techniques, including cutting-edge antifungal and antimicrobial treatments.
Moreover, at SERVPRO of Framingham, we believe in empowering our clients. We can provide you with expert advice on how to prevent similar problems from arising in the future. Proactive measures you can take include humidity control, optimized ventilation, HVAC maintenance and regular inspections. We also offer comprehensive post-remediation support. This includes advice pertaining to documentation, which can be invaluable for insurance claims and for maintaining records. Upon request, our team also conducts follow-up visits to ensure that the issue has been thoroughly resolved and to address any lingering concerns.
Stop worrying about the mold problem at your Ashland business. Reach out to our team at SERVPRO of Framingham today. The depth of our resources and expertise of our technicians enable us to effectively take on jobs of every size and across diverse industries. We respond faster to your disaster 24 hours a day, every day.
Business Doesn’t Wait for Water Damage in Sudbury. For Fast Cleanup, Call SERVPRO.
In the heart of Middlesex County, the historical town of Sudbury, Massachusetts, is home to a vibrant business community. However, this idyllic setting is not immune to the challenges posed by unexpected water damage, a concern that can significantly impact local companies of all sizes and across diverse industries. At SERVPRO of Framingham, we understand that local businesses– from the quaint shops at Mill Village to the bustling offices near Boston Post Road – don't have the luxury of pausing operations when water damage strikes. It's a race against time and loss, and that's where our expertise comes into play.
Unlike your employees, water damage doesn’t adhere to a schedule. Whether from natural causes like storms and floods or from internal issues such as pipe bursts or HVAC leaks, water can strike at any time. The speed of addressing water damage can mean the difference between a quick return to normalcy and prolonged, costly disruptions. This is a truth we at SERVPRO of Framingham know all too well. We understand that time is a business's most valuable asset, and this is especially true in water damage scenarios.
Our expertise in dealing with water damage in Sudbury goes beyond a swift response. We take a thorough and personalized approach to your restoration. We recognize that every business is unique, with specific needs and challenges. From retail stores and offices to large industrial warehouses, apartment buildings and more – each water damage scenario demands a tailored solution. You can count on our team of trained professionals to address the complexities of your commercial water damage. We use the latest techniques and technology to ensure consistent results.
The initial phase of our intervention focuses on assessing the damage. This is crucial in formulating a strategic approach that not only addresses the visible effects of water damage but also anticipates potential long-term impacts. Following this, our highly trained technicians spring into action, commencing the water extraction process. We come equipped with powerful pumps and truck-mounted vacuum units capable of quickly removing hundreds or thousands of gallons of water from your property, thus mitigating further damage and expediting the drying process?.
Another vital aspect of our water damage restoration process involves inspection. We use moisture detectors, hygrometers and infrared cameras to detect hidden moisture in carpeting, upholstery and behind walls. This step is essential, as wet carpets, pads and insulation can harbor moisture and contaminants that may lead to long-term structural damage.
SERVPRO of Framingham is more than just a water restoration company near Sudbury. We are your partner in maintaining a safe and dry work environment. We understand that the response to your water damage must be quick and efficient to keep your business running smoothly. So, when water damage threatens to disrupt your livelihood, remember that SERVPRO is ready to respond 24/7 – making your property look and function “Like it never even happened.”
Immediate Help for Home Flooding SERVPRO's Water Damage Services in Ashland
Residential Water Damage in Ashland, Massachusetts
In Ashland, residents often face the challenge of unexpected home flooding due to New England’s unpredictable weather. At SERVPRO of Framingham, we understand the urgency of addressing water damage and the complexities surrounding it. As a locally owned and operated company, we are deeply rooted in the community. Backed by the expansive network of over 2180 SERVPRO franchises with specialized Disaster Recovery Teams throughout the country, you can count on us to provide a swift and effective response to any size disaster.
Mother Nature is unpredictable, and so is water damage. Whether it be storm flooding or a burst pipe due to dropping temperatures, SERVPRO of Framingham stands ready to provide emergency cleaning and restoration services. Our preparedness is a commitment to the residents of Ashland and the surrounding areas, ensuring that help is always just a call away. At any given time, we have a team of over a dozen professionally trained technicians on hand. Equipped with 15 dedicated trucks stocked with all necessary equipment, we are prepared to deliver an immediate response, day or night.
Because each water disaster is unique, we take a personal and meticulous approach that reflects the specific needs of your situation. Once we’ve surveyed the damage at your Ashland home, we can begin extraction. We facilitate quick and efficient removal of standing water. This is followed by a thorough drying and dehumidification process. Cutting-edge technology enables us to detect hidden moisture, then eliminate it. Using state-of-the-art equipment and the latest techniques, we get your home back to normal quickly, minimizing costs and disruption to your life.
When you work with our team, you can expect a water remediation experience that is as pleasant as the solution. The entire process, from start to finish, is monitored to ensure the highest quality standards as well as thoroughly documented to facilitate smooth claims and complete personal records. We can even assist directly with your insurance paperwork and processing – allowing you to focus on your property and family’s well-being during this transitional time.
At SERVPRO of Framingham, we blend technical expertise with compassion, understanding the emotional impact that water damage can have. Our team, skilled in both restoration and client support, provides clear communication and a tailored recovery plan. We focus on both immediate and long-term solutions, striving to make your restoration smooth and stress-free. Our commitment goes beyond repair. We aim to restore peace of mind, ensuring each homeowner feels comfortable throughout the recovery process.
Sump Pump Failure and the Importance of Preparedness
Sump pump failure is an often overlooked yet significant threat to the safety and integrity of your home.
Here are the reasons behind the sump pump failure
In the realm of home maintenance and protection, there's an unsung hero often hidden in basements and crawl spaces—the sump pump. While it quietly performs its duty, safeguarding homes from potential water damage, its failure can lead to disastrous consequences. Here are the reasons behind the sump pump failure, the signs to watch for, and crucial measures to ensure your home remains protected.
The Silent Guardian:
The sump pump, a relatively unassuming device, plays a pivotal role in preventing basement flooding. Installed in a specially constructed pit, it detects rising water levels and pumps excess water away from your home's foundation. This simple yet effective system is a homeowner's first line of defense against water damage caused by heavy rainfall, melting snow, or rising groundwater.
Common Causes of Sump Pump Failure:
Power Outages: Without electricity, the pump cannot operate, leaving your basement vulnerable to flooding.
Lack of Maintenance: Like any mechanical system, sump pumps require regular maintenance. Over time, debris and sediment can accumulate, affecting the pump's efficiency.
Float Switch Issues: The float switch is responsible for activating the pump when water levels rise. Mechanical failures or obstructions can hinder its proper functioning, leading to pump failure.
Frozen Discharge Pipe: In colder climates, the discharge pipe can freeze, preventing the pump from expelling water. This can result in a backflow of water into the basement.
Pump Overwhelm: During heavy rainfall or rapid snowmelt, the sump pump may be overwhelmed by the volume of water, causing it to work harder and potentially fail
Recognizing the Signs: To prevent a sump pump failure from catching you off guard, it's essential to be vigilant for warning signs unusual Noises, and strange sounds, such as grinding or clanking, may indicate mechanical issues within the pump.
Visible Rust or Corrosion: Rust or corrosion on the pump or its components could signify wear and tear, potentially leading to failure.
Frequent Cycling: If the pump turns on and off more frequently than usual, it might be a sign of a problem with the float switch or other components.
Foul Odors: Unpleasant smells could indicate stagnant water in the sump pit, a result of the pump not effectively removing water.
Schedule routine maintenance to clear debris, test the float switch, and ensure all components are functioning correctly. Make sure to install a battery backup system to keep your sump pump operational during power outages.
Sump pump failure is an often overlooked yet significant threat to the safety and integrity of your home. By understanding the common causes, recognizing warning signs, and taking proactive measures, you can mitigate the risk of basement flooding and protect your property from the potential consequences of sump pump failure.
SERVPRO Of Framingham is The #1 Choice in Cleanup and Restoration for residential and commercial buildings’ fire damage. We are open 24-7, including all major holidays. Call us today (774) 540-6950
A Guide to Thanksgiving Fire Safety in Framingham MA
Prioritizing safety is paramount, particularly concerning potential fire hazards.
The aroma of roasted turkey, the warmth of pumpkin pie, and the gathering of loved ones create a festive atmosphere. However, amidst the celebration, it's crucial to prioritize safety, especially when it comes to potential fire hazards.
Read to find out Thanksgiving fire safety tips to ensure your holiday remains a time of gratitude and joy.
Kitchen Safety: The heart of Thanksgiving is undoubtedly the kitchen, where the magic of the feast unfolds.
Never leave the stove unattended, especially when cooking with oils or frying.
Keep flammable items, such as kitchen towels and oven mitts, away from the stovetop.
Ensure that your smoke alarms are working correctly, and have a fire extinguisher within easy reach.
Turkey Fryer Safety: Deep-frying turkeys has become a popular Thanksgiving tradition, but it comes with inherent risks.
Set up the fryer outdoors, away from the house, deck, or any flammable materials.
Thaw the turkey completely before frying to avoid oil splatters.
Monitor the temperature of the oil closely and never overfill the fryer.
Candle Caution: Candles can add a warm and cozy ambiance to your Thanksgiving dinner, but they also pose a fire risk.
Keep candles away from flammable decorations and other items.
Place candles in sturdy, non-tip candle holders.
Never leave lit candles unattended, and extinguish them before leaving the room.
Electrical Safety: Thanksgiving often involves a multitude of electrical appliances and devices.
Avoid overloading electrical outlets and use surge protectors when necessary.
Inspect cords for any frays or damage and replace them if needed.
Turn off appliances when not in use, and unplug them if possible.
Keep an Eye on Children: Children, while adding to the joy of the season, can be curious and unaware of potential dangers.
Designating a kid-free zone in the kitchen.
Educating children about fire safety and the importance of staying away from hot surfaces.
Assigning a responsible adult to supervise young children during festivities.
Prioritizing safety is paramount, particularly concerning potential fire hazards. SERVPRO Of Framingham is The #1 Choice in Cleanup and Restoration for residential and commercial buildings’ fire damage. We are open 24-7, including all major holidays. Call us today (774) 540-6950
By taking simple precautions and being mindful of fire safety, you can ensure that the holiday season remains merry and bright for everyone.
As the holiday season approaches, families gather, homes are adorned with twinkling lights and decorations, and the aroma of delicious meals fills the air. However, amidst the festivities, it's crucial to prioritize safety, especially when it comes to fire safety during the holidays.
Here are some essential tips to ensure a Merry and safe Christmas for you and your loved ones.
Mindful Decoration Placement:
Decking the halls with festive decorations is a cherished Christmas tradition. However, it's essential to be mindful of where and how you place them. Keep flammable materials such as curtains, tablecloths, and other decorations away from heat sources like candles and fireplaces. Opt for flame-resistant or flame-retardant decorations whenever possible.
Candle Safety:
Candles create a warm and cozy atmosphere, but they also pose a significant fire hazard. If you enjoy the glow of candlelight, consider using flameless LED candles as a safer alternative. If you do use traditional candles, never leave them unattended, keep them away from children and pets, and ensure they are placed in stable holders on a flat surface.
Inspect Christmas Lights:
Before hanging up your Christmas lights, inspect them for any signs of damage such as frayed wires, broken bulbs, or exposed wires. Discard and replace any damaged lights, and always follow the manufacturer's guidelines for usage. Consider using LED lights, as they generate less heat and are more energy-efficient than traditional incandescent lights.
Mindful Tree Care:
If you have a live Christmas tree, keeping it well-hydrated is crucial for fire prevention. Dry trees are highly flammable, so be sure to water your tree regularly and keep it away from heat sources. If you opt for an artificial tree, ensure that it is labeled as flame-resistant.
Cooking Safety:
The Christmas feast is a central part of the celebration, but it's also a time when kitchen fires are more common. Stay vigilant while cooking, use timers to avoid overcooking, and keep flammable items like kitchen towels and oven mitts away from the stove. If deep-frying, do so outside and away from structures.
Have an Escape Plan:
In the unfortunate event that a fire does occur, it's crucial to have a well-thought-out escape plan. Ensure that everyone in the household knows the plan, including designated meeting points outside the home. Practice fire drills regularly, especially if you have guests staying with you over the holidays.
Christmas is a time for joy, warmth, and togetherness. By taking simple precautions and being mindful of fire safety, you can ensure that the holiday season remains merry and bright for everyone. SERVPRO Of Framingham is The #1 Choice in Cleanup and Restoration for residential and commercial buildings’ fire damage. We are open 24-7, including all major holidays. Call us today (774) 540-6950
At SERVPRO, we believe in the power of community and the joy that comes from giving back.
The holiday season is a time of giving, and our SERVPRO franchise is thrilled to be a part of the Patriots Toy Drive this year. We invite you to join us in making a difference in the lives of children by contributing to this heartwarming initiative. Here's how you can get involved!
Event Details:
What: Patriots Toy Drive
Where: SERVPRO Office, 90 Elm Street, Hopkinton, MA 01748
How: Drop off new toys in our office lobby
When: Monday – Friday, 9 AM – 5 PM
How to Participate:
Donate a New Toy: We welcome any new, unwrapped toys that you'd like to contribute to the Patriots Toy Drive. Simply drop them off at our SERVPRO office, and look for the collection box in our lobby.
Visit Our Office: Stop by our office during our regular business hours to deliver your donation. Our team will be on hand to receive your heartfelt contributions.
Spread the Word: Help us make a bigger impact by sharing this information with your friends, family, and colleagues. Encourage them to join us in spreading joy to children in need.
Get a Toy Box for Your Office: Want to involve your workplace in this heartwarming cause? We're happy to provide a toy collection box for your office. Reach out to Tom in our sales office at triley@SERVPROframingham.com to coordinate the details.
Have Questions or Need Assistance? If you have any questions, need more information, or would like assistance in any way, feel free to reach out to Tom at the provided email address. He'll be more than happy to help make your participation in the Patriots Toy Drive seamless and enjoyable.
At SERVPRO, we believe in the power of community and the joy that comes from giving back. The Patriots Toy Drive is a wonderful opportunity to make a positive impact on the holiday season for children who could use a little extra cheer. Join us in spreading the warmth and magic of the holidays by contributing to this meaningful cause. Together, we can make a difference, one toy at a time. Thank you for your generosity and for being a part of this incredible journey!
How Does Water Damage Start in Hopkinton? Water doesn't stand a chance against SERVPRO Framingham's commercial and residential remediation services.
Water, the elixir of life, can also be a silent adversary when it comes to our homes. Water damage is a common and often underestimated threat that can wreak havoc on our living spaces. Understanding how water damage starts is crucial for prevention and timely intervention. Here are various ways water damage can initiate and explore the ripple effect it can have on our homes.
Leaky Roofs and Damaged Shingles: One of the primary culprits of water damage is a compromised roof. Leaky roofs, often caused by damaged or missing shingles, allow water to seep into the attic and other structural components of the house. Over time, this infiltration can lead to rotting wood, weakened ceilings, and eventually, water stains on interior walls.
Faulty Plumbing: Leaky pipes, burst hoses, and faulty plumbing fixtures are notorious for initiating water damage. A small, unnoticed leak can quickly escalate, causing damage to walls, flooring, and even the foundation of the house. Regular inspections and prompt repairs are essential to mitigate the risks associated with plumbing-related water damage.
Clogged Gutters and Downspouts: Gutters and downspouts play a crucial role in directing rainwater away from the house. When they become clogged with debris such as leaves, twigs, and dirt, water can overflow and saturate the exterior walls. This can lead to structural damage, mold growth, and erosion around the foundation.
Poorly Sealed Windows and Doors: Inadequately sealed windows and doors provide an entry point for water, especially during heavy rain or storms. Over time, water infiltration can lead to rotting frames, damaged drywall, and compromised structural integrity. Regularly inspecting and resealing these entry points can help prevent water damage.
Basement Flooding: Basements are particularly vulnerable to water damage due to their location below ground level. Heavy rainfall, poor drainage, or a high water table can result in basement flooding. This can cause extensive damage to walls, flooring, and valuable possessions stored in the basement.
Appliance Leaks: Household appliances, such as washing machines, dishwashers, and water heaters, can be sources of water damage if they develop leaks. A malfunctioning appliance or a worn-out hose can release water into the surrounding areas, leading to damage to floors, walls, and nearby possessions.
Water damage is a pervasive and potentially devastating issue that can start in various ways. Recognizing the signs and addressing the root causes promptly is essential for preventing extensive and costly damage. Regular maintenance, timely repairs, and a proactive approach to potential water entry points can safeguard your home from the silent threat of water damage. By understanding how water damage starts, we empower ourselves to protect our homes and ensure a dry and secure living environment for years to come.
Water doesn't stand a chance against SERVPRO Framingham's commercial and residential remediation services. We're not just another remediation company; we're your partners in ensuring a safe, healthy environment. So, if you're facing a water problem, don't hesitate. You can reach a member of our team 24/7/365.
Mold FAQ: Your Comprehensive Guide to Understanding Mold
If you have concerns about mold in your living space, it's always wise to consult with experts
Mold is a common household problem that can lead to various health issues and property damage in Framingham MA.
Many people have questions about mold, its causes, prevention, and remediation. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions (FAQ) about mold to help you better understand this issue and how to deal with it effectively.
What is Mold?
Mold is a type of fungus that grows in the form of multicellular filaments called hyphae. It thrives in damp, humid conditions and can appear in various colors and textures. While some molds are harmless, others can produce mycotoxins, which can be harmful to human health.
What Causes Mold Growth?
Mold requires moisture, warmth, and organic material to grow. Common causes of mold growth in homes include water leaks, high humidity, poor ventilation, and damp building materials. Areas like bathrooms, basements, and kitchens are particularly susceptible to mold infestations.
Is Mold Dangerous to Health?
Yes, mold can be harmful to health, especially if it produces mycotoxins. Exposure to mold spores and mycotoxins can lead to a range of health issues, including allergies, respiratory problems, skin irritation, and more severe conditions in individuals with compromised immune systems. It's essential to address mold problems promptly to protect your health.
How Can I Prevent Mold Growth?
To prevent mold growth, you can take several proactive steps:
Control indoor humidity levels (ideally between 30-50%).
Fix any leaks or water damage promptly.
Ensure proper ventilation in high-moisture areas.
Use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens.
Clean and dry wet or damp materials and surfaces promptly.
How Do I Identify Mold in My Home?
Mold is often visually identifiable by its fuzzy or slimy appearance and can come in various colors like black, green, white, or brown. You may also notice a musty odor in mold-infested areas. If you suspect mold, it's a good idea to consult a professional for a thorough inspection.
Can I Remove Mold Myself?
For small, surface-level mold problems (less than 10 square feet), you can attempt to clean it yourself using appropriate protective gear, such as gloves, a mask, and eye protection. Use a mixture of soap and water or a specialized mold cleaner. However, for extensive mold infestations, it's best to consult a professional mold remediation service.
How Can I Prevent Mold Recurrence?
To prevent mold from returning, continue to maintain a dry, well-ventilated environment in your home. Regularly inspect for leaks and address any moisture issues promptly. Consider using dehumidifiers in damp areas and ensuring your HVAC system is clean and well-maintained.
Do Home Insurance Policies Cover Mold Damage?
Home insurance policies may cover mold damage, but the coverage can vary widely. It typically depends on the cause of the mold and the specific terms of your policy. To ensure you're adequately covered, review your policy and consult with your insurance provider if necessary.
Understanding mold and how to deal with it is essential for maintaining a healthy and safe living environment. By following preventive measures, promptly addressing moisture issues, and seeking professional help when needed, you can effectively manage and mitigate mold problems in your home in Holliston, MA. If you have concerns about mold in your living space, it's always wise to consult with experts who can provide guidance and remediation services to keep your home mold-free and safe for your family's well-being.
SERVPRO® Of Framingham is The #1 Choice in Cleanup and Restoration for residential and commercial buildings’ fire, mold, water, and storm damage. Call us today (774) 540-6950
Preventing Ice Dams: A Guide to Protecting Your Home
By taking proactive steps to insulate your home, improve ventilation, and practice regular maintenance, you can reduce the risk of ice dams
Winter can be a magical time of year, but it also brings its fair share of challenges, especially for homeowners in Framingham MA. One of the most common and potentially damaging issues during the winter months is the formation of ice dams on your roof. Ice dams not only pose a danger to your home's structural integrity but can also lead to costly repairs. However, with the right knowledge and proactive measures, you can prevent ice dams from forming and protect your home. Learn what ice dams are, why they occur, and most importantly, how to prevent them.
Understanding Ice Dams
Ice dams are ridge-like accumulations of ice that form at the edge of your roof. They prevent melting snow and ice from draining off your roof, leading to water backing up and potentially seeping into your home. The process typically unfolds as follows:
Snow Accumulation: A layer of snow blankets your roof.
Heat Loss: Heat from your home escapes through the roof, causing the snow on the upper section to melt.
Freezing Point: As the melted water reaches the lower, colder portion of the roof (usually near the eaves), it refreezes, forming a dam of ice.
Water Backup: More snow continues to melt and flow toward the ice dam, eventually creating a pool of water that can find its way into your home through gaps in your roof or siding.
Why Preventing Ice Dams is Crucial
Ice dams can wreak havoc on your home in several ways:
Roof Damage: The weight of ice dams can damage your roof's structure and shingles, leading to costly repairs.
Water Damage: As the ice dams trap water on your roof, it can find its way into your home through ceilings, walls, and insulation, causing extensive interior damage.
Mold and Mildew: Moisture infiltration can foster the growth of mold and mildew, which can pose health risks to your family.
Energy Loss: Ice dams often form as a result of heat escaping from your home. This means you're losing valuable energy and driving up your heating bills.
Preventing Ice Dams: Tips and Techniques
Now that you understand the potential risks, let's explore some practical steps to prevent ice dams:
Proper Insulation: Ensure your attic is well-insulated to prevent heat from escaping through the roof. Adequate insulation will keep the roof temperature uniform, reducing the chances of ice dam formation.
Ventilation: Install roof and soffit vents to allow cool air to circulate through the attic. This helps maintain a consistent roof temperature, preventing snowmelt.
Seal Gaps and Leaks: Seal any gaps, cracks, or openings in your roof, walls, and attic to minimize warm air leakage.
Attic Air Sealing: Air sealing your attic can prevent warm air from escaping into the attic space.
Roof Raking: After a heavy snowfall, use a roof rake to remove excess snow from the lower sections of your roof. This reduces the amount of snow available for melting and ice dam formation.
Ice Dam Membranes: Consider installing an ice and water shield membrane under your roofing material, especially near the eaves, to prevent water infiltration.
Gutter Maintenance: Keep your gutters clean and free of debris, allowing for proper water drainage. Consider installing heated gutter cables to prevent ice buildup.
Professional Inspection: Schedule regular inspections with a roofing professional to identify and address potential issues before they become major problems.
Ice dams are a common winter woe for homeowners, but they are not insurmountable. By taking proactive steps to insulate your home, improve ventilation, and practice regular maintenance, you can significantly reduce the risk of ice dam formation. Preventing ice dams not only preserves your home's structural integrity but also keeps your energy bills in check and ensures a cozy, dry winter season indoors. Remember, a little prevention now can save you a lot of trouble and expense down the road. Stay warm, stay dry, and enjoy the winter season to the fullest in Nobscot, MA!
SERVPRO® Of Framingham is The #1 Choice in Cleanup and Restoration for residential and commercial buildings’ fire, mold, water, and storm damage. Call us today (774) 540-6950
Break the Mold With SERVPRO Framingham's Commercial and Residential Mold Remediation in Hopkinton
Break the Mold With SERVPRO Framingham's Commercial and Residential Mold Remediation in Hopkinton
No matter how careful you are, every commercial and residential property is susceptible to mold. In addition to its unsightly appearance, mold can pose health risks and compromise the structural integrity of your property. If you’ve found signs of mold at your home or business, don’t worry. At SERVPRO Framingham we offer top-notch commercial and residential remediation services in Hopkinton. Our mission is to help property owners reclaim their spaces and ensure they are mold-free.
When it comes to mold remediation, Hopkinton residents and business owners expect the best. At SERVPRO Framingham, we deliver exactly that. Our team uses the latest technology and is trained in the most advanced techniques to tackle mold at its root. We don't just clean the surface -- we delve deep, ensuring that mold spores are eradicated, preventing future growth. Our unwavering commitment to excellence ensures that every corner of your property is inspected, treated and restored to its pre-mold condition.
Part of what sets SERVPRO Framingham apart from competitors is our holistic approach to mold remediation in Hopkinton. We understand that every property is unique, and so are its mold related challenges. Our team takes the time to understand the specific needs of each client, crafting a tailored plan that addresses the root cause of the mold problem. Whether it's a leaky roof, poor ventilation, or hidden water damage, we've got you covered.
Our services extend far beyond initial mold remediation. At SERVPRO Framingham, we provide a truly comprehensive solution. After addressing the mold issue, our team will advise on preventive measures, ensuring that your property remains mold-free in the future. We also offer full restoration services, helping you bring your property back to a pristine state. From repainting walls to replacing damaged materials, we ensure that your space looks and feels as good as new.
Mold doesn't stand a chance against SERVPRO Framingham's commercial and residential remediation services in Hopkinton. We're not just another remediation company; we're your partners in ensuring a safe, healthy and mold-free environment. So, if you're facing a mold problem, don't hesitate. Break the mold with SERVPRO Framingham. You can reach a member of our team 24/7/365.
Water Woes at Work in Hopkinton? Commercial Restoration Solutions from SERVPRO Framingham Await
Water Woes at Work in Hopkinton Commercial Restoration Solutions from SERVPRO Framingham Await
In New England, no business is safe from the potential ravishes of water damages. Your office, warehouse or other commercial property’s plumbing can be just as unpredictable as the weather. Water damage, be it from a sudden pipe burst, unexpected heavy rainfall, or even localized flooding, presents significant challenges. Such incidents not only impact physical infrastructure but can also disrupt daily operations, leading to financial setbacks. But there's good news: SERVPRO Framingham is here, offering reliable commercial restoration solutions to get Hopkinton businesses back in action.
When we talk about water damage in commercial spaces, it's not just about the immediate visible effects. It's about the potential operational downtime, which can lead to lost revenue. It's about damage to inventory, machinery and other assets, which can be costly to replace. Moreover, prolonged dampness can become a health concern due to mold growth, affecting both staff and customers. In today's interconnected world, any prolonged closure or visible damage can quickly become public knowledge -- and an undesirable aspect of your reputation.
This is where SERVPRO Framingham steps in, offering a helping hand to businesses in need. Our team is known for their prompt response and in-depth understanding of water damage. With years of hands-on experience, we’ve honed our skills to address various challenges that water damage can present. In addition to our expertise, we come equipped with the latest restoration tools to ensure flawless results. Our range of services is extensive, covering everything from water detection and removal to mold remediation and more. We keep you informed throughout the restoration process and can provide detailed documentation of our recovery efforts.
With SERVPRO Framingham by your side, water damage is one less thing you have to worry about. We understand the intricacies of water-related challenges and are committed to restoring your business as quickly and efficiently as possible. Our reputation is built on trust, expertise and a relentless dedication to our clients. So, when water woes strike at your workplace, remember that SERVPRO Framingham is just a call away, ready bring back business as usual at your Hopkinton company.
Wave Goodbye to Home Water Damage in Hopkinton: Stay Dry with SERVPRO Framingham
Wave Goodbye to Home Water Damage in Hopkinton Stay Dry with SERVPRO Framingham
Water damage is a major concern for every homeowner. Whether it's a burst pipe, flooded basement or leaky roof, water damage can wreak havoc on your property, possessions and peace of mind. But for the residents and businesses of Hopkinton, there's a silver lining: SERVPRO Framingham is here to help.
Why Choose SERVPRO Framingham?
Expertise and Experience: With years of experience under our belt, we've seen it all. From minor leaks to major floods, our team of experts is equipped to handle any water damage situation. We understand the unique challenges faced by Hopkinton residents and tailor our services accordingly.
Rapid Response: Time is of the essence when it comes to water damage. The longer you wait, the more damage water can cause. That's why our team is on call 24/7, ensuring that we're there when you need us the most.
State-of-the-Art Equipment: We invest in the latest technology and equipment to ensure that your property is dried, cleaned and restored to its pre-damage condition. Our advanced tools allow us to detect hidden moisture, extract water quickly and dry areas efficiently.
Comprehensive Services: From initial assessment to final restoration, you can count on our team to effectively address every aspect of your property’s water damage. This includes water extraction, drying, dehumidification, mold remediation and complete restoration.
Dedication to Restoration: Your Home, Our Priority
Your home is more than just walls and a roof. It’s where memories are made and is a significant financial investment. Water damage can disrupt your life, damage precious possessions and reduce your property’s value. At SERVPRO Framingham, we treat your home as if it were our own. Our team works diligently to minimize disruption, salvage belongings and restore your home to its former glory.
While we're always here to help in times of crisis, we also believe in empowering our clients with knowledge. We offer tips and advice on how to prevent water damage, from regular maintenance checks to installing water alarms. Stay proactive and protect your property from potential water damage.
Water damage can be overwhelming, but with SERVPRO Framingham by your side, you can wave goodbye to your worries. Trust us to deliver top-notch water restoration services in Hopkinton that will leave your property “like it never even happened.”
Protecting Your Home and Loved Ones: A Comprehensive Guide to Fire Prevention
Preventing fires is a shared responsibility that requires diligence and awareness.
Fire is a powerful and destructive force that can devastate lives and property within seconds. Fortunately, many fires can be prevented with proper awareness, precautions, and responsible behavior. Here are essential tips and strategies for fire prevention, so you can safeguard your home and loved ones.
Install Smoke Alarms: One of the most critical components of fire prevention is having functional smoke alarms in your home. These devices are your first line of defense against fires. Ensure you have smoke alarms installed in key areas like bedrooms, hallways, and the kitchen. Regularly test them to make sure they are working correctly and replace their batteries at least once a year.
Create a Fire Escape Plan: Having a well-thought-out fire escape plan is essential for the safety of your family. Make sure everyone in your household knows the plan, including multiple escape routes, a designated meeting point outside, and how to call 911. Practice fire drills regularly to ensure everyone is familiar with the process.
Fire-Resistant Building Materials: If you're building a new home or renovating, consider using fire-resistant materials like fire-resistant roofing, siding, and insulation. These materials can slow the spread of flames and increase the chances of containing a fire until help arrives.
Properly Store Flammable Materials: Store flammable materials, such as gasoline, propane, and paints, in a well-ventilated area away from heat sources and open flames. Use appropriate containers and follow safety guidelines to prevent leaks or spills.
Maintain Heating Equipment: Heating equipment, including fireplaces, wood stoves, and furnaces, should be regularly inspected and maintained by professionals. Keep flammable materials at a safe distance and use protective barriers like screens to prevent sparks from escaping.
Safe Cooking Practices: Cooking is one of the leading causes of home fires. Never leave the kitchen unattended while cooking, and keep flammable objects like dish towels and curtains away from the stove. Install a fire extinguisher in or near the kitchen and know how to use it.
Electrical Safety: Faulty electrical systems or appliances can trigger fires. Inspect electrical cords and outlets for damage and replace them if necessary. Avoid overloading electrical outlets and use surge protectors when needed.
Candle Safety: Candles can create a cozy atmosphere, but they are also a fire hazard. Keep candles away from flammable materials and never leave them unattended. Consider using flameless LED candles as a safer alternative.
Smoking Safety: If you smoke, do so outside and use a sturdy, deep ashtray. Ensure cigarettes are completely extinguished before disposing of them. Never smoke in bed, as falling asleep with a lit cigarette can lead to a deadly fire.
Teach Fire Safety to Children: Children should be educated about fire safety from a young age. Teach them about the dangers of fire, how to respond in case of a fire, and the importance of not playing with matches or lighters.
Preventing fires is a shared responsibility that requires diligence and awareness. By following these fire prevention tips and fostering a culture of safety in your household, you can significantly reduce the risk of fires and protect your home and loved ones from this destructive force in Framingham. Remember, when it comes to fire prevention, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Stay safe, and prepared, and prevent fires to your home in Hopkinton, MA.
SERVPRO® Of Framingham is The #1 Choice in Cleanup and Restoration for residential and commercial buildings’ fire, mold, water, and storm damage. Call us today (774) 540-6950
Water damage from a burst pipe, a leaky roof, a flood, or any other source, the aftermath of water damage can be overwhelming.
Water damage can be a homeowner's worst nightmare. Whether it's from a burst pipe, a leaky roof, a flood, or any other source, the aftermath of water damage can be overwhelming. But fear not! With the right knowledge and quick action, you can minimize the damage and ensure a smoother recovery process. Here are the essential steps to take when faced with water damage.
Ensure Safety First: Before you start dealing with water damage, prioritize safety. Turn off the power to the affected area to avoid electrical hazards. If necessary, wear protective gear such as rubber gloves and waterproof boots to prevent contact with contaminated water.
Identify the Source and Stop It: Determine the source of the water and take immediate steps to stop it. If it's a burst pipe, turn off the water supply to that area or the entire house. For roof leaks, place buckets or tarps to divert water away from the damaged area temporarily. If the water source is external (like a flood), wait for authorities to confirm it's safe before returning.
Document the Damage: Take photographs or videos of the water damage before you begin cleanup or contact your insurance company. Proper documentation can help support your insurance claim.
Call Your Insurance Company: Contact your homeowner's insurance provider as soon as possible to report the water damage. Provide them with all the necessary information, including photos and videos, so they can initiate the claims process. Be sure to ask about the specific coverage and deductible for water damage in your policy.
Remove Water and Moisture: The longer water sits, the more damage it can cause. Begin the drying process immediately by removing excess water using pumps, wet/dry vacuums, or towels. Open windows and doors to encourage ventilation and help speed up the drying process.
Salvage Valuables: Remove valuable and sentimental items from the affected area to prevent further damage. Furniture, electronics, and personal belongings should be relocated to a dry and safe place. If items are already waterlogged, consult with professionals on restoration possibilities.
Prevent Mold Growth: Mold can start growing within 24 to 48 hours after water damage occurs. To prevent mold growth, thoroughly dry and disinfect the affected area. Use fans and dehumidifiers to reduce humidity levels, and consider using mold-resistant products during repairs.
Assess Structural Damage: Check for any structural damage that may have occurred due to the water. This includes inspecting walls, ceilings, floors, and the foundation. If you suspect structural issues, consult with a professional contractor or engineer.
Repair and Restore: Once the affected area is completely dry, you can start the repair and restoration process. Depending on the extent of the damage, you may need to replace drywall, insulation, flooring, or other structural components. Work with reputable contractors or restoration specialists to ensure quality repairs.
Prevent Future Water Damage: After the cleanup and restoration are complete, take steps to prevent future water damage. Regularly inspect your home for leaks, maintain your plumbing system, and consider installing a sump pump or backflow preventer if you're in a flood-prone area.
Dealing with water damage can be stressful, but by following these steps and acting quickly, you can minimize the damage and ensure a smoother recovery process. Remember that safety should always be your top priority, and seeking professional help when needed can make a significant difference in the outcome. With proper precautions and a well-executed plan, you can restore your home to its former glory and safeguard it against future water damage.
SERVPRO Of Framingham is The #1 Choice in Cleanup and Restoration for residential and commercial buildings’ fire, mold, water, and storm damage. If you are looking for assistance, just click on the contact us page, and someone will be in touch shortly.
Does Your House Have Mold? Your Best Choice for Home Remediation in Sudbury is SERVPRO of Framingham
You don't want to take any chances when it comes to mold in your house. Mold can be a silent but destructive presence, affecting both your property and your family’s health. If you're in Sudbury and suspect mold in your home, SERVPRO of Framingham is your go-to solution. Read on to learn more about how our unique qualifications make us the best choice for mold remediation in Sudbury, Massachusetts and throughout the region.
The Gold Standard in Home Mold Remediation
We're not just another cleanup service. We are highly trained mold remediation specialists. Our team has the experience, expertise and advanced training required to restore your property quickly and thoroughly. Explore of the qualifications that set us apart:
Specialized Training
Our team is up-to-date on the latest techniques and equipment in the industry. We adhere to IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) standards, ensuring that you're getting the best service possible. Our staff includes:
Applied Microbial Remediation Specialists trained in microbial remediation, ensuring that mold colonies are effectively eradicated.
Water Damage Restoration Technicians who understand the relationship between water damage and mold, allowing us to address the root cause of the issue.
Applied Structural Drying Technicians with expertise in advanced drying techniques that are crucial for preventing future mold growth.
Advanced Techniques and Equipment
We invest in the latest equipment and ongoing mold remediation training to homes impacted by mold growth quickly and effectively. For example, we use physical barriers and a negative air pressure chamber to isolate the affected area, ensuring that mold spores do not spread during the remediation process. Commercial-grade air filtration equipment is also used to scrub your home’s air of spores and other harmful particles.
Fast and Effective Solutions with Exceptional Customer Service
Our 24/7 emergency service ensures that we are available whenever you need us. Our fast response time is critical for minimizing potential health risks and property damage. You can count on us to respond faster to your disaster and immediately begin the process with throughout inspection and damage assessment, containment, air filtration and removal of mold-infested material.
We work collaboratively with you throughout the duration of the project, keeping you updated throughout and ensuring that your expectations are met. In addition to remediating mold, we help you prevent it. Our team will guide you through steps to control moisture levels in your home, such as fixing leaks, using dehumidifiers and improving ventilation.
Why Risk It? Make SERVPRO Your First Call for Residential Mold Remediation
Mold remediation for your Sudbury home is a task best left to professionals, and SERVPRO of Framingham is the most qualified for the job. Our specialized training, advanced techniques and commitment to customer satisfaction make us the best choice for mold remediation in Sudbury. Don't take chances with mold. Address the issue head-on with our team of experienced professionals at SERVPRO of Framingham.
After the Flood: Water Damage Restoration in Sudbury by SERVPRO of Framingham
When the skies clear and the floodwaters recede, the real challenge begins: restoring your home or business to its pre-flood condition. At SERVPRO of Framingham, we understand the emotional and financial toll a flood can take. That's why we're committed to providing top-notch water damage restoration services in Sudbury and the surrounding areas. In this blog post, we'll walk you through the steps to take after a flood and how SERVPRO® can help you get back on your feet.
Safety First
Before diving into the restoration process, it's crucial to ensure the safety of everyone involved. Floodwaters can be contaminated and pose significant health risks. Always wear appropriate protective gear if you must enter the affected area. Additionally, be cautious of electrical hazards; turn off the main power line if it's safe to do so.
Immediate Water Extraction and Drying
The longer water sits, the more damage it can cause. From warping wood to facilitating mold growth, standing water is your enemy. At SERVPRO of Framingham, we use state-of-the-art equipment to efficiently remove water and start the drying process. Our industrial-grade dehumidifiers and fans expedite the drying, ensuring no hidden moisture remains.
Assess and Document the Damage
Before starting any restoration work, it's essential to assess the extent of the damage. Take photos and make notes. These will be invaluable when dealing with your insurance company. At SERVPRO, we can assist you in this process, making sure every detail is documented for a smooth insurance claim.
Cleanup and Repairs
Floodwater often carries contaminants that can pose health risks. Our team is trained in sanitizing and cleaning all affected areas, making your home or business safe again. Our efforts can include addressing structural damage, mold prevention and remediation, sealing leaks and more. We aim to make your property look and function as though the flooding event never happened.
Mold Prevention
One of the most significant risks of water damage is the potential for mold growth. Our team is trained to identify and treat mold issues, ensuring they don't become a persistent problem in your property.
Why Choose SERVPRO of Framingham?
24/7 Emergency Services: We're always available, ensuring quick response times to minimize damage.
Highly Trained Specialists: Our team undergoes continuous training, staying updated on the latest industry techniques and practices.
Local Presence, National Resources: Being a local company, we understand the specific challenges faced by residents of Sudbury and the surrounding areas. Yet, we also have the backing of a national network, providing us with the resources to handle any size disaster.
The Simple Solution for Flood Restoration in Sudbury
Recovering from a flood can be a daunting task, but you don't have to go through it alone. SERVPRO of Framingham is here to guide you every step of the way, from initial assessment to the final touches of restoration. With our help, you can mitigate flood damage and return to normalcy quicker than you thought possible.
Breathe Easy at Your Sudbury Business: Commercial Mold Remediation to Improve Office Air Quality
When it comes to running a successful business in Sudbury, air quality might not be the first thing on your mind. However, poor indoor air quality caused by mold growth can have a significant impact on your employees' physical wellbeing and productivity. With SERVPRO of Framingham's commercial mold remediation services, you can be confident that that your office environment is not just clean, but also healthy.
The Importance of Keeping a Mold-Free Work Environment
Indoor air quality is a critical concern for businesses in Sudbury for several reasons. First and foremost, the health of your employees is at stake. Poor air quality can result in a range of health issues, from respiratory problems and allergies to more severe long-term conditions. Secondly, clean air is directly linked to employee productivity. Workers have better attendance, are more focused and have higher productivity when they're not burdened by the symptoms that come with poor air quality. Lastly, the perception of your business can be significantly influenced by the state of your indoor environment. Even just the smell of mold can be a major turn-off for potential clients or customers, affecting your business's reputation and bottom line.
From Detection to Restoration: Our Approach to Commercial Mold Remediation in Sudbury, Massachusetts
The SERVPRO of Framingham approach to eradicating mold encompasses several key strategies. We start by having our IICRC-certified team detect mold using advanced technology, even in hidden areas, which can be a significant contributor to poor air quality. Next, we utilize high-efficiency air filtration equipment to capture microscopic mold spores from the air. We also focus on moisture control, identifying and addressing any sources of moisture that contribute to mold growth, such as roof leaks or loose pipe fittings. From there, we restore any sections of your property damaged by mold, ensuring that deteriorating materials do not compromise air quality.
Proactive Steps for Maintaining Good Air Quality
While remediation is crucial, prevention is often the most effective strategy for maintaining good air quality in your business environment. Here are some proactive steps that you can take:
Regular HVAC Maintenance: A well-maintained HVAC system can significantly improve indoor air quality.
Use of Dehumidifiers: Managing humidity levels can prevent mold growth and improve air quality.
Ventilation: Make sure that your office space is well-ventilated, especially areas like bathrooms and kitchens, where moisture levels are high.
Regular Inspections: Periodic checks by a professional for mold or moisture can help you address issues before they become a significant problem.
By taking these steps and partnering with SERVPRO of Framingham, you can ensure that your Sudbury business is a place where employees can breathe easy and customers will be happy to visit. After all, good air quality is good business.
Dealing with Mold: Your Comprehensive Guide to Mold Remediation
Mold thrives in damp, dark, and humid environments, making basements, bathrooms, and kitchens susceptible areas.
Mold is a common problem that many homeowners encounter at some point. It thrives in damp, dark, and humid environments, making basements, bathrooms, and kitchens susceptible areas. Not only is mold unsightly, but it can also pose health risks if left unaddressed. Here is what to do if you discover mold in your home and how to effectively tackle this issue.
Identify the Mold: Before you can effectively deal with mold, you need to identify the type and extent of the infestation. There are various types of mold, with some being more harmful than others. Common indoor molds include black mold (Stachybotrys chartarum), green mold (Aspergillus), and white mold (Penicillium). If you are unsure about the type of mold you are dealing with, consider hiring a professional mold inspector who can provide an accurate assessment.
Safety First: When dealing with mold, safety should be your top priority. Mold can release harmful spores and mycotoxins into the air, which can be dangerous when inhaled. To protect yourself, follow these safety precautions:
Wear protective gear, including an N95 respirator, gloves, and eye protection.
Isolate the contaminated area to prevent mold spores from spreading to other parts of your home.
Ensure proper ventilation by opening windows and doors to allow fresh air to circulate.
Remove Moisture Sources: Mold thrives in moist environments, so the first step in mold remediation is to identify and eliminate the source of moisture. Fix any leaks, repair roof damage, and improve ventilation in damp areas like basements and bathrooms. A dehumidifier can also help reduce humidity levels in your home.
Cleaning and Mold Removal: The method of mold removal depends on the extent of the infestation and the affected materials. Here are some general steps to follow:
For small surface mold growth, clean the affected area with a mixture of soap and water or a commercial mold cleaner.
For larger infestations, you may need to remove and replace contaminated materials, such as drywall, insulation, or carpet. Be cautious not to disturb the mold, as this can release more spores into the air.
Consider Professional Help: If the mold problem is extensive, toxic mold is suspected, or you have health concerns, it's advisable to hire a professional mold remediation service. These experts have the necessary equipment and expertise to safely and effectively remove mold from your home.
After you have successfully removed the mold, take steps to prevent it from returning:
Maintain proper ventilation and humidity levels in your home.
Regularly inspect and repair any leaks or water damage.
Clean and dry damp areas promptly.
Use mold-resistant materials in areas prone to moisture.
Dealing with mold can be a daunting task, but with the right knowledge and precautions, you can effectively address the issue and protect your home and health. Remember that safety should always come first, and when in doubt, seek professional assistance. By identifying and addressing the source of the problem and following proper remediation procedures, you can create a healthier living environment for you and your family.
SERVPRO Of Framingham is The #1 Choice in Cleanup and Restoration for residential and commercial buildings’ fire, mold, water, and storm damage. If you are looking for assistance, just click on the contact us page, and someone will be in touch shortly.
The Dangers of Fall Leaves and Weather: Staying Safe and Prepared
Here are potential hazards associated with fall leaves and weather.
Fall is a magical season, with its vibrant foliage and cooler temperatures making it a favorite for many. However, amidst the beauty of autumn, there are hidden dangers that can catch us off guard if we're not prepared. Here are potential hazards associated with fall leaves and weather.
Slippery Leaves: While the sight of colorful leaves blanketing the ground is picturesque, it can also be treacherous. Fallen leaves can become wet and create slippery surfaces, posing a significant risk for slips and falls. This is especially true in areas with heavy foot traffic, such as sidewalks and driveways.
Keep walkways clear of leaves and debris, and use a leaf blower or rake to prevent accumulation. Be cautious when walking on leaf-covered surfaces, especially after rain.
Reduced Visibility: The shorter days of fall mean less daylight, which can affect visibility for both pedestrians and drivers. Leaves can obstruct sidewalks and roadways, making it challenging to see potential hazards.
Wear bright clothing or reflective accessories when walking or biking in low-light conditions. Ensure your vehicle's headlights and taillights are in working order, and drive cautiously, especially during dusk and dawn.
Wet and Slippery Roads: As fall progresses, rainy and stormy weather becomes more frequent. Wet leaves on the road can create slippery conditions for drivers, leading to accidents.
Slow down when driving on wet roads covered with leaves and maintain a safe following distance from other vehicles. Ensure your tires are in good condition to provide proper traction.
Increased Allergens: Fall leaves can trigger allergies for some individuals, as they release mold spores and other allergens into the air. This can lead to symptoms such as sneezing, congestion, and itchy eyes.
If you have allergies, consider using air purifiers in your home and keeping windows closed on windy days. Consult with an allergist for advice on managing your allergies during the fall season.
Temperature Fluctuations: Fall is a season of temperature fluctuations, with chilly mornings and warm afternoons. Sudden drops in temperature can catch people off guard, potentially leading to cold-related illnesses.
Dress in layers to stay warm in the morning and shed layers as the day warms up. Carry a light jacket or sweater for unexpected temperature changes.
Fallen Branches and Trees: Strong winds and storms can cause trees and branches to fall. This poses a significant danger to people, vehicles, and property.
Inspect trees on your property for signs of damage or weakness, and trim branches that could potentially fall. During windy weather, avoid standing under trees and park your car away from large trees.
While fall is a beautiful and enjoyable season, it's essential to be aware of the potential dangers associated with falling leaves and changing weather. By taking precautionary measures and staying informed about weather conditions, you can ensure a safe and pleasant autumn for yourself and your loved ones.
SERVPRO Of Framingham is The #1 Choice in Cleanup and Restoration for residential and commercial buildings’ fire, mold, water, and storm damage. If you are looking for assistance, just click on the contact us page, and someone will be in touch shortly.
5 Things Not to Do After a Fire Damages Your Home in Framingham, MA.
By following these five essential guidelines, you can navigate the post-fire period more smoothly, ensuring a faster and more effective recovery
Experiencing a house fire is a devastating event that can leave you feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about what steps to take next. After the fire is extinguished and the immediate danger is over, it's essential to approach the situation with caution and a clear plan. While the desire to start restoring your home may be strong, there are several critical mistakes you should avoid to ensure a smoother recovery process. Here are five things not to do after a fire damages your home, helping you navigate this challenging time with greater ease and efficiency.
Entering the Property Without Proper Clearance: After a fire, your instinct may be to rush back into your home to assess the damage and retrieve valuables. However, entering the property without proper clearance from the fire department or relevant authorities can be extremely dangerous. Structural instability, hidden pockets of fire, toxic fumes, and weakened support beams are just a few of the hazards that might be present. Always wait for the official go-ahead before reentering your home to ensure your safety and that of emergency responders.
Attempting DIY Repairs: Restoring your home after a fire requires professional expertise due to the complexity of the damage. While it's natural to want to start cleaning up immediately, attempting DIY repairs without the necessary knowledge and equipment can lead to further damage and compromise the integrity of your home. Instead, consult with licensed contractors or restoration specialists experienced in fire damage recovery. They will have the expertise and tools needed to assess the situation correctly and carry out safe and effective restoration work.
Ignoring Smoke and Soot Damage: The aftermath of a fire often leaves behind extensive smoke and soot damage that may not be immediately apparent. Ignoring these lingering issues can lead to long-term problems, including health hazards and deterioration of materials. Smoke and soot particles can seep into walls, upholstery, and ventilation systems, causing respiratory issues and unpleasant odors. Engage professional cleaning services equipped to handle fire-related residues to ensure that your home is thoroughly cleaned and deodorized.
Failing to Notify Your Insurance Company Promptly: Your homeowner's insurance policy is there to help you during such challenging times, but to maximize your claim and coverage, it's crucial to notify your insurance company promptly. Delaying the reporting of the fire or providing incomplete information may lead to complications and delays in receiving the necessary funds for the restoration process. Reach out to your insurance provider as soon as possible, providing detailed documentation of the damage and any valuable items that were lost.
Disposing of Damaged Items Prematurely: Amidst the chaos of a fire-damaged home, it's tempting to discard ruined items quickly. However, it's essential to document the damage thoroughly before disposing of anything. Take photographs and make a detailed inventory of damaged belongings as evidence for your insurance claim. Your insurance adjuster may need this information to process your claim accurately. Moreover, some items may be salvageable through professional restoration services, potentially saving you money in replacement costs.
Experiencing a fire and the aftermath of its damage is an emotional and challenging ordeal. While the desire to start rebuilding your life is natural, it's essential to approach the recovery process cautiously and avoid certain mistakes. Remember not to enter your property until it's deemed safe, enlist the help of professionals for restoration work, promptly inform your insurance company, and document the damage thoroughly. By following these five essential guidelines, you can navigate the post-fire period more smoothly, ensuring a faster and more effective recovery for your home and your life.
SERVPRO of Framingham stands as the ultimate choice for both residential and commercial buildings when it comes to cleanup and restoration services. Our unparalleled expertise covers a wide range of damages, including fire, mold, water, and storm-related incidents. Count on us for top-notch solutions to restore your property efficiently and effectively.
What to Do if Your Framingham Home Has Black Mold? Our Experts Weigh-In.
First you noticed the smell. Then you followed your nose, and there it was: a dark, unsightly patch hidden behind a moved piece of furniture, spreading across the wall. The initial shock of discovering black mold in your Framingham home can be quite unsettling. Memories of family gatherings and cozy evenings are suddenly overshadowed by the dread of potential health risks and the disruption that mold remediation might bring. Fear not. At SERVPRO Framingham we understand the anxiety homeowners feel in moments like these. You can count on our trained professionals to ensuring your home returns to a safe environment for you and your family, guiding you every step of the way.
Stop Black Mold in Its Tracks: Take Immediate Action
Before you do anything else, it's crucial to stop any ongoing moisture problems. Mold thrives in damp conditions, so addressing any leaks or water damage is critical. Once you've identified the source, such as a leaking roof or a burst pipe, get it repaired immediately. If you're unsure about where the water is coming from, our team at SERVPRO can perform a comprehensive assessment. Secondly, refrain from attempting to clean or remove the mold yourself. While it might seem like a cost-saving measure, DIY techniques often inadvertently spread mold spores, making the problem even worse. Always rely on certified professionals who have the tools, equipment and expertise to handle mold remediation safely and effectively.
Versatile Black Mold Removal Professionals in Framingham
Local homeowners grappling with black mold issues turn to our team at SERVPRO of Framingham to effectively address the issue. Not only are we swift in response, but our team comprises highly trained mold and water damage restoration specialists. Our versatility encompassed applied structural drying, microbial applications, water damage recovery, upholstery and fabric cleaning, odor control and more. Through our dedicated training facility and continuous e-learning programs, we ensure our professionals are always on top of the latest techniques and equipment in the industry. Reach out to us today and let us help rid your home of black mold. We can respond 24/7 to homes in Framingham as well as Sudbury, Hopkinton, Ashland, Holliston and the surrounding area.
See What Locals Have to Say About Our Black Mold Service in Framingham
We take pride in positive feedback from customers who depend on us for black mold remediation and other services in Framingham and beyond. One 5-star review reads, “Working with SERVPRO was a seamless experience. Their work was done professionally and they kept us informed of the rationale for each aspect of the demotion process. They also went out of their way to respond to our requests, such as going the extra mile to save tile we have loved for many years and could not replace. We give them an A++.”
Another customer touches on our attention to detail, “Excellent service from an excellent crew! They were always on time and so professional. The crew took care of everything, and I mean everything! From moving the furniture to covering and making sure they are well protected and when everything was done offered to move it back in place. They explained the whole process before starting. It was a seamless process. Even the owner stopped by to check on things and met with us to make sure he answers any questions we might have. I highly recommend this team.”
If you have black mold in Framingham, call (508) 370-4400, email mshanley@SERVPROframingham.com or contact us on our website. Your home will be in good hands with our residential mold remediation specialists.
Mold Removal for Framingham Businesses: Keep Your Company Healthy with SERVPRO Framingham
Mold growth in a commercial setting not only disrupts day-to-day operations but also poses health risks to your employees and customers. If left untreated, mold can spread rapidly, leading to extensive damage and costly repairs. Fortunately, SERVPRO Framingham is here to ensure your business remains a safe and mold-free environment.
Why is Mold a Concern for Framingham Businesses?
Framingham’s unique climate can sometimes create the perfect conditions for mold to flourish, especially in poorly ventilated areas. Mold spores, though tiny, can have a massive impact. Once they take root, they can quickly proliferate on various surfaces. For businesses, this not only presents a cosmetic concern but can also:
Property damage: Mold eats away organic materials, which can damage walls, carpets, and inventory.
Reduced indoor air quality: The presence of mold can trigger allergies and exacerbate respiratory conditions.
Decreased property value: Mold-infested properties can be challenging to sell or rent out.
Why Choose SERVPRO Framingham for Mold Remediation?
Expertise: Our team is IICRC-certified in mold remediation. With our vast experience, we are equipped to handle mold situations of all sizes and complexities.
Advanced Technology: We use cutting-edge technology and proven methods to detect the presence of mold, even if it's hidden behind walls or under floors. Our equipment can extract moisture and prevent future mold growth.
Fast Response: Time is of the essence when dealing with mold. SERVPRO Framingham understands the urgency and operates 24/7 to ensure timely intervention.
Comprehensive Service: Beyond just mold removal, we also offer restoration services. If mold has damaged any section of your property, we will restore it to its pre-mold condition, saving you the hassle of hiring multiple contractors.
Customer Satisfaction: For us, it's not just about getting the job done, it's about ensuring our clients are 100% satisfied. Our commitment to excellence has made us the trusted choice of Framingham’s business community.
Steps to Prevent Future Mold Growth
While we’re always here to help, prevention is often the best cure. Here are some steps to ensure your business remains mold-free:
Regular Inspection: Regularly inspect your premises, especially after heavy rainfall or leaks.
Ventilation: Adequate airflow can prevent excessive moisture buildup that facilitates mold growth.
Leak Repair: Address any leaking pipes, windows or other sources of water intrusion immediately.
Manage Humidity: Invest in dehumidifiers if necessary.
Maintaining a mold-free environment is critical for the health of your employees, clients and the longevity of your business. If you suspect mold growth, don’t hesitate to contact SERVPRO Framingham. We are your local partners for ensuring a clean, safe and healthy work environment.
There's nothing quite like the sinking feeling of stepping onto a cold, wet carpet or few inches of water in your home or business. Beyond the initial shock and emotional stress that comes with experiencing a flood, such events can wreck costly damage when left unchecked or are addressed with half measures. Immediate action is critical in minimizing the damage, and as the MetroWest’s most trusted name in restoration, SERVPRO of Framingham is here to guide you through the process. Below, we've detailed three essential steps to take when recovering from flood damage.
Prioritize Safety and Assess the Damage:
Before anything else, ensure the safety of your family, employees and all other occupants. Electrical hazards, contaminated water and structural damage can pose significant safety risks. Take these precautions:
If safe, disconnect all electrical appliances and turn off the main power.
Avoid walking in floodwaters, as they can be contaminated.
Check for visible structural damage before re-entering the building.
Document the damage by taking photos and making notes. This will help when working with your insurance company and our restoration professionals.
Act Fast: Immediate Water Extraction and Drying:
The longer water is left untreated, the greater the damage it can cause. In addition to warping and rotting building materials, standing water also facilitates mold growth, which is hazardous to human health and your property. That is why it is essential to start the drying process as soon as possible.
Remove as much water as possible using pumps or vacuums. At SERVPRO of Framingham, we have state-of-the-art equipment that makes this task efficient and effective.
Open windows and doors to create natural air flow. Strategically position fans to expedite the process.
Dehumidifiers can be extremely useful in extracting moisture from the air. Our industrial-grade dehumidifiers work faster and are more efficient than typical home units.
Leave It to The Pros: Hire a Flood Restoration Company:
While immediate DIY steps are a good start, they should not be used as a complete solution. Professional intervention is the best way to protect your investment and maintain a safe environment to live or work in. You can count our team at SERVPRO of Framingham to handle every step of the process, including:
Water Removal and Drying: We completely eradicate standing water and moisture using industrial pumps, fans and dehumidifiers.
Sanitization: Flooding can introduce hazardous contaminants. We thoroughly sanitize affected areas to make your home or business safe again.
Restoration: We don’t just remove water, we restore your property to its pre-flood condition -- from addressing structural damage to repairing damaged furnishings and everything in-between.
Mold Prevention: Moisture often leads to mold growth, which can be harmful to both health and property. Our team is trained to identify and treat mold issues, ensuring they don’t become a persistent problem.
By following these steps and leveraging the expertise of professionals like SERVPRO of Framingham, you can mitigate flood damage and return to normalcy quicker. With our 24/7 emergency services and convenient location, you can count on us to respond faster to any disaster in Framingham or the surrounding area.
If you have flood damage in Framingham at your home or business, reach out to our team of remediation specialists at SERVPRO of Framingham. Call (508) 370-4400, email mshanley@SERVPROframingham.com or contact us on our website.
Protect Your Home Against a Flood in Framingham MA: Essential Tips to Safeguard Your Abode
While we cannot control natural disasters like floods, we can take proactive steps to protect our homes and loved ones from their devastating effects.
Floods are among the most destructive and devastating natural disasters that can wreak havoc on our homes. With climate change leading to increased instances of extreme weather events, it's becoming more crucial than ever to take proactive measures to protect our homes against potential flooding. Here are some essential tips and strategies to safeguard your home and loved ones from the destructive force of floods.
Understand the Flood Risk in Your Area: The first step in flood protection is to understand the flood risk in your area. Check local flood maps and seek information from relevant authorities about historical flood events in your region. Understanding the level of risk will help you gauge the urgency and extent of flood-proofing measures your home requires.
Elevate Electrical Systems: Electrical systems are highly vulnerable during floods and can pose a significant safety hazard. Hire a professional electrician to elevate all electrical outlets, switches, sockets, and wiring above the expected flood levels. Additionally, consider installing a main electrical panel at a higher level or in an elevated enclosure to prevent water damage.
Waterproof Your Basement: Basements are highly susceptible to flooding due to their location below ground level. Seal any cracks in the foundation and walls to prevent water seepage. Apply waterproofing compounds on the walls and consider installing a sump pump to remove any accumulated water.
Elevate Appliances and Furnishings: Raise your valuable appliances, including washers, dryers, water heaters, and furnaces, on elevated platforms to keep them above potential floodwaters. Additionally, consider securing heavy furniture to the walls to prevent them from floating and causing damage.
Install Flood Barriers and Sandbags: Temporary flood barriers and sandbags can act as a first line of defense during a flood event. Stock up on sandbags and know how to properly stack and place them around vulnerable areas, such as doors and windows, to create a barrier against incoming water.
Secure Sewage Backflow Valves: During severe floods, there's a risk of sewage backflow, which can lead to contamination and further damage. Installing sewage backflow valves in your home's plumbing system can help prevent sewage from entering your property.
Create Adequate Drainage: Ensure that your property has proper drainage systems in place to direct water away from your home's foundation. Clean gutters, downspouts, and drains regularly to prevent blockages that may lead to water pooling around your home.
Elevate Outdoor Utilities: Just like indoor electrical systems, outdoor utilities such as air conditioning units and fuel tanks should be raised above potential flood levels to minimize damage and reduce safety risks.
Purchase Flood Insurance: Standard homeowner's insurance policies usually do not cover flood damage. It's essential to invest in separate flood insurance coverage to protect your home and belongings in case of a flood event.
While we cannot control natural disasters like floods, we can take proactive steps to protect our homes and loved ones from their devastating effects. By understanding the flood risk in our area and implementing the above-mentioned flood protection measures, we can significantly reduce the potential impact of floods on our homes. Remember, early preparation is key to safeguarding your abode against nature's fury, and a little effort now can save you from significant losses in the future. Stay informed, stay prepared, and keep your home safe!
SERVPRO of Framingham stands as the ultimate choice for both residential and commercial buildings when it comes to cleanup and restoration services. Our unparalleled expertise covers a wide range of damages, including fire, mold, water, and storm-related incidents. Count on us for top-notch solutions to restore your property efficiently and effectively.
3 Top Causes of Fall Water in Framingham MA Damage
SERVPRO of Framingham stands as the ultimate choice for both residential and commercial buildings when it comes to cleanup and restoration services.
As the leaves change color and the crisp autumn breeze sets in, fall brings about a picturesque ambiance. However, amidst the beauty of this season lies potential hazards that can wreak havoc on our homes: fall water damage. The fall season poses unique challenges for homeowners, with rainfall, fallen leaves, and temperature fluctuations leading to various sources of water damage. Here are the three top causes of fall water damage and how to prevent them to safeguard our homes during this season.
One of the primary culprits of fall water damage is clogged gutters and downspouts. The abundance of falling leaves, twigs, and debris during autumn can easily accumulate in gutters and downspouts, obstructing the proper flow of rainwater. When gutters are clogged, rainwater cannot be efficiently directed away from the roof and foundation of the house, causing potential leaks and water seepage.
Prevention Tips:
Regularly clean gutters and downspouts, especially during the fall season. Consider using gutter guards to prevent debris buildup.
Trim trees near your house to minimize the number of leaves falling onto the roof and gutters.
Check for any signs of damage to the gutters and downspouts, and promptly repair or replace any compromised sections.
Water Seepage through Cracks and Gaps
As temperatures fluctuate during fall, any cracks or gaps in the exterior of your home can become potential entry points for water.
Inspect the exterior of your home thoroughly, paying close attention to vulnerable areas like the roof, siding, and foundation. Seal any visible cracks and gaps with appropriate weatherproofing materials.
Ensure that the seals around windows and doors are intact. Replace any damaged weatherstripping or caulking to prevent water infiltration.
Maintain proper ventilation in attics and crawl spaces to regulate temperature and humidity, reducing the risk of moisture-related damage.
While fall brings with it a sense of comfort and coziness, it's essential to remain vigilant about potential water damage to our homes. Clogged gutters and downspouts, water seepage through cracks and gaps, and a leaking roof are three common culprits that can wreak havoc during this season. By taking proactive measures to maintain and protect our homes, we can ensure that the beauty of fall remains undisturbed by water-related woes. Regular inspections, proper maintenance, and timely repairs are key to safeguarding our homes and ensuring a worry-free autumn experience.
SERVPRO of Framingham stands as the ultimate choice for both residential and commercial buildings when it comes to cleanup and restoration services. Our unparalleled expertise covers a wide range of damages, including fire, mold, water, and storm-related incidents. Count on us for top-notch solutions to restore your property efficiently and effectively.
SERVPRO Water Damage Experts in Framingham, Massachusetts: Don't Let Water Make a Nightmare of Your Dream House.
Water damage, whether due to flooding, burst pipes or storms, can transform your dream living situation into an experience that you wish you could wake up from. Structural instability, mold growth and reduced air quality are just a few common characteristics of water damaged homes. If you find water somewhere around the house that it shouldn’t be, you can rely on our team at SERVPRO to take care of it. We are the leading water damage experts in Framingham, Massachusetts as well as Sudbury, Hopkinton, Ashland, Holliston and other nearby communities. We are available 24/7 and respond to your service request immediately so that we can mitigate further damage and quickly restore normalcy at your home.
Effective water damage remediation is an intricate process that must be performed with the upmost attention to detail. You can count on our water damage experts in Framingham to deliver a personalized solution that directly reflects your specific application. Our comprehensive approach starts with a meticulous assessment of your property to gauge the extent of the damage as well as the restoration measures required to address it with. We utilize advanced water extraction and drying techniques, to thoroughly remove standing liquid from affected areas. By closely monitoring the process, we can ensure complete moisture removal, staving off mold growth and long-term structural damage. After your floors, walls, furniture and everything else in your house is dry, we clean, sanitize and repair your home to make it safe to live in again.
Put Your Home in The Hands of Seasoned Water Damage Restoration Technicians
When you hire SERVPRO, you can expect your home to be serviced by experienced and knowledgeable water damage experts in Framingham, Massachusetts. We prioritize continuous employee training, with a focus on IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) standards. This investment ensures we are always equipped with the latest industry techniques and practices. From initial water removal and applied structural drying to fabric and upholstery cleaning, odor control and mold remediation -- we have the skills and resources required to effectively take-on every aspect of your residential water damage cleanup project.
Our reputation as the go-to Water Damage Experts in Framingham, Massachusetts is built, in-part, on the feedback we receive from local homeowners. One 5-star review reads, “I had a great experience at SERVPRO. After experiencing a disaster, it was so reassuring to have such great workers in my home.”
Another recent customer shares their experience, “We had a leak from an upstairs bathroom toilet and we worked with SERVPRO on the water mitigation and subsequent rebuild. They were excellent to work with throughout. Overall, I was really pleased working with SERVPRO. They made a very stressful time much more manageable, and our home looks amazing. I would definitely work with them again in the future for any water or fire damage.”
Commercial Mold Remediation in Framingham, Massachusetts
In the Boston’s MetroWest’s fast-paced business environment, a mold infestation at your company poses more than just health risks and property damage. Significant business interruption, lost productivity and revenue drain are just a few potential scenarios that can result from unchecked mold problems. At SERVPRO of Framingham, we specialize in providing commercial mold remediation in Framingham, Massachusetts. We're in the business of keeping your business running. Our team combines swift response, industry-leading expertise and the latest remediation technologies to quickly restore your property and operation to pre-mold conditions.
When It Comes to Treating Mold, Timing is Everything
Mold can spread rapidly if untreated, compromising the structural integrity of your property and threatening the health of your staff and customers. In just 48 hours, an entire building can become infected. That's why we respond quickly to your call, working diligently to contain the infestation, address its source and prevent it from spreading. Mold doesn’t take days off and neither do we. You can call us 24/7 for commercial mold remediation in Framingham, Massachusetts. Because our office is strategically located with direct access to I-495, we can respond faster than out of town competitors to Framingham as well as Sudbury, Hopkinton, Ashland, Holliston and other nearby communities.
At SERVPRO of Framingham, we are more than just fast. You can trust us to handle your commercial mold problem with utmost professionalism and care. Our service team consists of highly trained mold and water damage restoration specialists. The expertise of these skilled professionals encompasses every aspect of mold remediation -- from applied structural drying, microbial applications and water damage recovery to upholstery and fabric cleaning, odor control and more. By offering courses at our corporate training facility and implementing ongoing e-learning programs, we ensure our team remains knowledgeable about the latest techniques and equipment in the industry.
When it comes to what makes us the go-to source of commercial mold remediation in Framingham, Massachusetts and beyond, we think our customers say it best. One concise 5-star review reads, “Professional, responsive company. Great customer service to answer all of your questions. Highly recommend!”
Another success story touches on our customer-centric approach, “Excellent service from an excellent crew! They were always on time and so professional. The crew took care of everything, and I mean everything! From moving the furniture to covering and making sure they are well protected and when everything was done offered to move it back In place. They explained the whole process before starting. It was a seamless process. Even the owner stopped by to check on things and met with us to make sure he answers any questions we might have. I highly recommend this team.”
Water Damage Restoration for Framingham Businesses
From frozen pipes bursting in the winter to basement flooding in the late summer hurricane season and other accidents year-round, no business is completely safe from water damage in New England. In such instances, you need a reliable and trusted partner to swiftly restore your commercial property, so that you can maintain business continuity. When disaster strikes local companies, they rely on our team at SERVPRO to keep them afloat with professional water restoration services in Framingham, Massachusetts. Every moment matters when it comes to water damage. We are available 24/7 to respond immediately, to mitigate additional water exposure and begin to bring your office back to business as usual.
Reopen with Confidence: Experience the SERVPRO Difference
Our approach to professional water damage restoration services in Framingham is thorough, efficient and geared towards minimizing costly disruption. We start by carefully assessing water damage and directly addressing its source. From there, we extract the unwanted water and begin drying. Using state-of-the-industry equipment with best practice techniques enables us to quickly remove standing water and thoroughly dry your property. We closely monitor the process to ensure any hidden moisture is removed, preventing potential mold growth. After that, we’ll get your company ready for reopening by cleaning, sanitizing and repairing affected areas with both speed and attention to detail.
Commercial Water Restoration Experts in Framingham
Our team at SERVPRO is made up of highly trained water restoration specialists who bring their expertise to every job, big or small. We invest in their continuous training, with a focus on IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) standards, to ensure they stay updated on the latest techniques and practices in the industry. Water damage restoration, fabric and upholstery cleaning, mold remediation, applied structural drying and odor control are just a few areas of specialization held by our extensively educated and experienced staff members. No matter the size or scope of your situation may be, you can count on us to keep your organization above water, with professional water restoration services in Framingham, Massachusetts.
Our status among locals as the go-to source of professional water restoration services in Framingham, Massachusetts is built, in-part, on positive feedback. One local restaurateur expresses his satisfaction, “Great customer service on-site and in office! A bad time for our business was mitigated by my confidence in SERVPRO to get the clean-up done efficiently!”
Another concise 5-star review touches on our role in the community, “I’m so happy that there is a local company that has that small town appeal to help with emergencies. Thomas has great customer service and definitely puts the customer at ease, which is helpful when you need to call upon a company such as SERVPRO.”
Addressing home mold issues is essential when it comes to maintaining a safe environment for your family. In addition to structural damage from rot and unpleasant odors, infestations produce allergens and other irritants that reduce air quality and impact respiratory health. At SERVPRO, we understand the challenges that local homeowners face when dealing with mold infestations. No matter what the size of your problem may be, you can count on our mold remediation experts in Framingham, Massachusetts to remedy it with exceptional timeliness and professionalism. Our meticulous process includes inspection, damage assessment, containment, air filtration and removal of mold-infested material as well as cleaning and restoring your belongings.
Fast Response, Lasting Results: 24/7 Mold Remediation
In as little as 48 hours mold can spread throughout your entire home. As such, a quick response is critical in minimizing potential health risks, property damage and remediation costs. At SERVPRO of Framingham, we take timing seriously. Our 24/7 emergency service ensures that our highly trained technicians are available to respond, no matter when you discover a mold issue -- including late nights, weekends and holidays. Not only do we act swiftly, but we also accurately identify and address the sources of moisture that contribute to mold growth -- so you can keep your home free from infestation for years to come. Conveniently positioned along I-495, we can arrive faster to any size disaster in Framingham, Sudbury, Hopkinton, Ashland, Holliston and beyond.
Knowledge You Can Trust: Local Mold Remediation Experts
You can breathe easy knowing that our mold remediation services are consistent with IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) standards, an internationally recognized organization that sets guidelines for the cleaning and restoration industry. We keep our team up to date on the latest techniques and equipment in the industry through courses at our corporate training facility and ongoing e-learning programs. As authorities on the subject, we even host continuing education classes for our staff as well as insurance agents, insurance adjusters, real estate professionals and other interested parties. Our commitment to education means that when you call SERVPRO, you’ll be speaking with qualified mold remediation experts in Framingham, Massachusetts.
See What Local Customers Have to Say
Our status as the go-to mold remediation experts in Framingham, Massachusetts and the surrounding area is regularly renewed through customer feedback. One local resident writes, “We had water damage unexpectedly and SERVPRO did a great job in cleaning it up and drying it out. They were very responsive and were able to control the situation to prevent mold buildup.”
Another success story reads, “We had a pipe burst in our finished basement. Our plumber recommended SERVPRO to deal with the water damage, mold and cleanup. They contained the mold from spreading, sanitized, and cleaned up to prepare for the restoration. The entire team was very professional. We were so pleased and would highly recommend it.”
Call (508) 370-4400 or contact us on our website to start working with a mold remediation expert in Framingham, Massachusetts from our team at SERVPRO today.
Restoring Brilliance: A Comprehensive Guide to Rebuilding After Water Damage
Let’s explore a step-by-step guide on how to rebuild a building after water damage, ensuring a safe, efficient, and visually pleasing transformation.
Water damage can be a devastating event for any building, wreaking havoc on its structural integrity, functionality, and aesthetics. Whether caused by floods, burst pipes, or leaks, the aftermath of water damage requires prompt action and careful planning for successful restoration. Let’s explore a step-by-step guide on how to rebuild a building after water damage, ensuring a safe, efficient, and visually pleasing transformation.
Step 1: Assess the Extent of Damage:
Before embarking on the rebuilding process, it is crucial to conduct a thorough assessment of the water damage. Engage the services of a professional inspector or a reputable restoration company to determine the extent of structural, electrical, and mold-related damage. This assessment will provide the necessary insights to plan the restoration effectively.
Step 2: Ensure Safety:
Safety should always be the top priority when working on a building affected by water damage. Before entering the premises, ensure that the electrical power is shut off to prevent any potential hazards. Take necessary precautions to avoid slips, falls, and exposure to contaminated water. Utilize appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, masks, and boots.
Step 3: Extract Water and Drying:
Water removal is a critical step in the restoration process. Use industrial-grade pumps, wet vacuums, and dehumidifiers to extract standing water from the affected areas. Promote proper air circulation by opening windows, using fans, and employing specialized drying equipment. It is imperative to eliminate excess moisture to prevent mold growth and further damage to the structure.
Step 4: Mold Remediation:
Moisture-laden environments provide ideal conditions for mold growth. If mold is detected, consult with professionals experienced in mold remediation. They will assess the extent of mold contamination, perform thorough cleaning, and ensure proper ventilation to prevent future mold outbreaks. Prompt action will safeguard the health of occupants and maintain the integrity of the building.
Step 5: Structural Repairs:
Once the affected areas are dry and mold-free, it's time to address structural damage. Engage the services of qualified contractors or construction professionals to repair weakened walls, floors, ceilings, and foundation. Reinforce compromised structures, replace damaged materials, and ensure compliance with building codes and regulations. Conduct necessary plumbing repairs and inspections to prevent future water-related issues.
Step 6: Electrical and HVAC Systems:
Water damage can severely impact electrical and HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) systems, posing potential safety hazards. Engage licensed electricians and HVAC technicians to thoroughly inspect, repair, or replace damaged components. Ensure that all systems meet safety standards and regulations before reconnecting utilities.
Step 7: Interior Restoration:
The rebuilding process also involves restoring the interior spaces to their former glory. Assess and replace damaged insulation, drywall, flooring, and fixtures. Repaint walls, applying mold-resistant coatings where necessary. Consider utilizing waterproof materials for future protection. Consult interior designers or decorators to reimagine and create functional, aesthetically pleasing spaces.
Step 8: Prevention and Preparedness:
To mitigate the risk of future water damage, implement preventive measures. Install water detection systems, reinforce waterproofing measures, and regularly inspect plumbing and roof systems. Educate occupants on proactive steps to prevent water-related accidents and encourage immediate reporting of leaks or other issues.
Rebuilding a building after water damage requires careful planning, meticulous execution, and a collaborative effort from various professionals. By following this comprehensive guide, you can navigate the restoration process with confidence, ensuring the safety, functionality, and beauty of the rebuilt structure.
SERVPRO Of Framingham is The #1 Choice in Cleanup and Restoration for residential and commercial buildings’ fire, mold, water, and storm damage.
Biohazards pose a significant threat to human health, the environment, and overall well-being.
In our modern world, we are constantly surrounded by potential threats, some visible and others hidden from our naked eyes. One such invisible peril that poses a significant risk to human health and the environment is a biohazard. Defined as a biological agent or substance that poses a threat to living organisms, biohazards have become a topic of great concern in recent times. This sheds light on biohazards, their various forms, and the importance of effective management to safeguard our well-being.
Understanding Biohazards:
Biohazards encompass a wide range of hazardous agents, including bacteria, viruses, toxins, fungi, and other biological substances. They can be found in different environments, such as laboratories, hospitals, industrial settings, and even natural ecosystems. What makes biohazards particularly dangerous is their ability to cause infections, diseases, and severe health complications in both humans and animals.
Types of Biohazards:
Biological Agents: These include pathogenic microorganisms like bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. Examples of well-known biohazards include Salmonella, E. coli, HIV, influenza, and anthrax. These agents can spread through direct contact, droplets, contaminated food or water, or vectors like mosquitoes.
Biomedical Waste: Medical facilities produce significant amounts of hazardous waste, including used needles, blood-soaked materials, contaminated sharps, and pharmaceutical waste. Improper handling or disposal of these materials can lead to the spread of infections and endanger public health.
Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs): While GMOs have their benefits in agriculture and medical research, their uncontrolled release or mishandling can have unintended consequences. These organisms, genetically altered to possess certain traits, may potentially disrupt ecosystems and pose risks to native species.
Chemical Agents: Biohazards can also manifest as toxic chemicals or toxins produced by organisms. Pesticides, heavy metals, and industrial pollutants, when released into the environment, can contaminate air, water, and soil, endangering human and animal life.
Managing Biohazards:
The effective management of biohazards is crucial for protecting public health, preserving the environment, and preventing the spread of diseases. Here are some key aspects of biohazard management:
Risk Assessment and Prevention: Identifying potential biohazards, evaluating their risks, and implementing preventive measures are vital. This includes proper training and education for individuals working with biohazardous materials, implementing safety protocols, and enforcing regulations to minimize exposure and transmission.
Proper Handling and Disposal: Safe handling, storage, and disposal of biohazardous materials are paramount. Strict adherence to guidelines, such as the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), decontamination procedures, and specialized waste disposal methods, help minimize the risks associated with biohazards.
Research and Development: Ongoing scientific research plays a crucial role in understanding biohazards, their behavior, and developing effective countermeasures. Investing in research and development of vaccines, antiviral drugs, and diagnostic tools aids in the prevention and management of biohazard outbreaks.
Public Awareness and Education: Educating the general public about biohazards, their potential risks, and proper precautions fosters a culture of safety and responsibility. Awareness campaigns, public health initiatives, and educational programs can empower individuals to protect themselves and their communities.
Biohazards pose a significant threat to human health, the environment, and overall well-being. Understanding the various types of biohazards, implementing effective management strategies, and promoting awareness are crucial steps toward mitigating these risks.
SERVPRO Of Framingham is The #1 Choice in Cleanup and Restoration for residential and commercial buildings’ fire, mold, water, and storm damage.
How to Deal with Fire and Smoke Damage in a Home or Business in Framingham
SERVPRO Of Framingham is The #1 Choice in Cleanup and Restoration for residential and commercial building damage.
Experiencing a fire incident in your home or business can be a traumatic event. Aside from the immediate danger and destruction caused by flames, the aftermath of fire and smoke damage can present significant challenges. However, with the right knowledge and proactive approach, you can effectively deal with fire and smoke damage and restore your property to its preloss condition. Here are steps to help you navigate the recovery process successfully.
Ensure Safety: Before entering the fire-damaged premises, it is crucial to wait for approval from the fire department or relevant authorities that the building is structurally safe. Always prioritize your safety and the safety of others. Wear appropriate protective gear, including masks, gloves, and eye protection, as smoke residues can contain harmful particles.
Contact Professionals: Once the property is deemed safe to enter, contact a reputable fire damage restoration company as soon as possible, such as SERVPRO Of Framingham . These professionals have the expertise, experience, and specialized equipment to handle fire and smoke damage effectively. They will assess the extent of the damage, provide guidance, and develop a comprehensive restoration plan tailored to your specific situation.
Document the Damage: Before any cleanup or repairs take place, document the damage thoroughly. Take photographs and make a detailed inventory of all affected items and structural damage. This documentation will be crucial for insurance claims and can help ensure that nothing is overlooked during the restoration process.
Ventilate the Area: Open windows and doors to allow fresh air to circulate throughout the space. This helps to dissipate residual smoke and reduce odors. However, exercise caution if there is significant structural damage, as opening windows or doors could pose safety risks.
Clean and Remove Soot: Soot and smoke residues can cause significant damage if left untreated. Begin by vacuuming loose soot particles using a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) vacuum cleaner. Avoid using regular household vacuums, as they may blow soot particles back into the air. Consider SERVPRO Of Framingham for thorough cleaning and restoration of delicate items such as textiles, electronics, and artwork.
Assess and Repair Structural Damage: Evaluate the structural integrity of your property and address any immediate concerns. Seek assistance from a licensed contractor or structural engineer to determine the extent of the damage and develop a plan for repairs or rebuilding.
Eliminate Odors: Smoke odor can be persistent and challenging to remove. Begin by airing out the space and using fans or dehumidifiers to promote air circulation. Deep clean carpets, upholstery, and curtains to eliminate embedded smoke particles. Ozone generators and thermal fogging are advanced techniques used by professionals to neutralize and remove lingering odors effectively.
Dealing with fire and smoke damage can be overwhelming, but with proper guidance and professional assistance, you can restore your home or business successfully. Prioritize safety, document the damage, engage with professionals, and follow the steps outlined in this blog post. Remember to remain patient and resilient throughout the recovery process, as restoring your property to its preloss condition may take time.
SERVPRO Of Framingham is The #1 Choice in Cleanup and Restoration for residential and commercial building damage.
How to Check Your Roof for Storm Damage Framingham, MA
It is crucial to inspect your roof after a storm to identify any potential issues and take prompt action.
Storms can wreak havoc homes and even the roof. High winds, hail, and heavy rain can cause significant damage that, if left unnoticed, may lead to costly repairs or even compromise the safety of your home. It is crucial to inspect your roof after a storm to identify any potential issues and take prompt action. Make sure to take precautions before inspecting your roof:
Wait for the storm to pass completely and ensure it's safe to go outside.
Use a sturdy ladder and have someone else present to assist or monitor your activity.
Wear appropriate protective gear, such as gloves and non-slip shoes.
Look for missing or damaged shingles. Check if any shingles are torn, cracked, or completely missing.
Flashing is the metal strip used to seal joints and prevent water penetration. Check for any loose or damaged flashing around chimneys, vents, or skylights.
Inspect your gutters for granules or small pieces of shingles, which may indicate damage. Ensure that gutters and downspouts are securely attached and not clogged with debris.
Look for signs of damage or dislodged bricks around the chimney. Check the chimney cap for any cracks or missing sections.
Carefully examine the attic for water stains, leaks, or signs of moisture. Check the insulation for dampness or mold growth, which can be indications of a damaged roof.
Look for water stains or discoloration on the ceilings and walls of the top floor. These can signify a roof leak.
Checking your roof for storm damage is a vital step in maintaining the structural integrity and safety of your home Framingham, MA. Taking proactive measures after a storm can save you from significant expenses down the road while ensuring the long-lasting protection of your home.
SERVPRO Of Framingham is The #1 Choice in Cleanup and Restoration for residential and commercial building damage.
Prevention is key when it comes to dealing with mold. Reduce humidity levels, fix leaks, use ventilation, and clean regularly to prevent mold growth.
Mold is a common problem that homeowners face, especially in humid or damp areas of the house. Not only can mold cause damage to your home and pose health risks, but it can also create a foul smell that can be difficult to get rid of. Here is what you can do to prevent mold.
What Causes the Smell?
Mold releases a musty odor that can be quite unpleasant. This smell is caused by the chemicals released by mold as it grows and breaks down organic matter. Mold thrives in damp environments, such as bathrooms, basements, and areas with water damage. If you notice a musty odor in your home, it could be a sign that mold is present.
Health Risks Associated with Mold.
Mold not only creates a foul smell but can also pose health risks to you and your family. Exposure to mold can cause allergic reactions, respiratory problems, and other health issues. Children, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems are particularly vulnerable to mold-related health problems. If you suspect that mold is present in your home, it's important to take action to address the issue as soon as possible.
Here are some steps you can take to prevent mold growth in your home:
Reduce humidity levels: Mold thrives in humid environments, so it's important to keep humidity levels low. Use dehumidifiers in areas prone to moisture, such as basements and bathrooms.
Fix leaks: Mold needs moisture to grow, so fixing any leaks in your home is crucial. Check for leaks around windows, doors, and pipes, and repair them promptly.
Use ventilation: Proper ventilation can help prevent mold growth. Use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens, and open windows to increase airflow.
Clean regularly: Regular cleaning can help prevent mold growth. Clean surfaces regularly with a solution of bleach and water, and use mold-resistant paint in areas prone to moisture.
If you discover mold in your home, it's important to take action to remove it as soon as possible. Here are some steps you can take to remove mold:
Identify the source: Identify the source of the moisture that's causing the mold to grow. Fix any leaks or water damage before removing the mold.
Use protective equipment: Wear protective equipment, such as gloves and a mask, to avoid inhaling mold spores.
Clean surfaces: Clean surfaces with a solution of bleach and water. Use a scrub brush to remove the mold from porous surfaces, such as drywall.
Dry the area: After cleaning the mold, dry the area thoroughly to prevent the mold from returning.
Prevention is key when it comes to dealing with mold. Reduce humidity levels, fix leaks, use ventilation, and clean regularly to prevent mold growth. If you discover mold in your home, take action to remove it promptly.
SERVPRO Of Framingham is The #1 Choice in Cleanup and Restoration for residential and commercial buildings’ fire, mold, water, and storm damage.
If your smoke detector goes off, stay calm, determine the source of the smoke, silence the alarm, ventilate the room, check the batteries.
Smoke detectors are one of the most essential safety devices in any home. They are designed to alert you to the presence of smoke, which could be an indication of a fire. However, sometimes smoke detectors can go off even when there is no actual fire. This can be due to a variety of reasons such as cooking smoke, steam, or even dust. Here are some steps to take if your smoke detector goes off.
Stay Calm: The first and most important thing to do is to stay calm. The loud, piercing sound of a smoke detector can be very unsettling and cause panic. However, it's important to remain calm so you can think clearly and take appropriate action.
Determine the Source of the Smoke: Once you're calm, try to determine the source of the smoke. If you see smoke or smell something burning, then there may be a fire. However, if you don't see or smell anything, then the smoke detector may be triggered by something else. Check the room for any signs of smoke or fire.
Silence the Alarm: If you determine that there is no actual fire, then you can silence the alarm. Most smoke detectors have a button that you can press to silence the alarm. If you're not sure which button to press, refer to the user manual.
Ventilate the Room: If there was no actual fire, then you should ventilate the room to clear out any smoke or steam. Open a window or turn on a fan to help disperse the smoke.
Check the Batteries: If the smoke detector continues to go off, then it may be due to low batteries. Check the batteries and replace them if necessary.
Call for Help: If you determine that there is an actual fire, then you should call for help immediately. Call 911 or your local emergency number and provide them with your location and details about the fire.
Smoke detectors are an essential safety device in any home. If your smoke detector goes off, stay calm, determine the source of the smoke, silence the alarm, ventilate the room, check the batteries, and call for help if necessary. Remember to test your smoke detectors regularly to ensure they are functioning properly.
SERVPRO Of Framingham is The #1 Choice in Cleanup and Restoration for residential and commercial buildings’ fire, mold, water, and storm damage.
One of the most common safety hazards when grilling is a fire breaking out.
Grilling is a great way to enjoy delicious food and spend time outdoors with friends and family. However, it’s important to keep safety in mind when using a grill. One of the most common safety hazards when grilling is a fire breaking out. If a grill fire does occur, it’s important to know what to do to stay safe. Here are the steps to take if a grill is on fire:
Turn off the burners: If the fire is contained in one area of the grill, turn off the burners in that area. This will help prevent the fire from spreading.
Close the lid: If the fire is larger and cannot be contained to one area, close the lid of the grill. This will help cut off the oxygen supply to the fire and reduce the flames.
Disconnect the fuel source: If you are using a propane grill, turn off the propane tank and disconnect it from the grill. If you are using a charcoal grill, remove the charcoal from the grill.
Use a fire extinguisher: If the fire is still burning, use a fire extinguisher to put it out. Make sure you use the correct type of fire extinguisher for the type of fire you are dealing with. For grill fires, use a Class B fire extinguisher, which is designed for flammable liquids and gases.
Call for help: If the fire is too large to be put out with a fire extinguisher, call the fire department immediately.
Do not use water: Never use water to put out a grease fire on a grill. This can cause the fire to spread and create a dangerous situation.
Wait before cleaning: After the fire has been put out, wait until the grill has cooled down before cleaning it. This will prevent any remaining grease or debris from reigniting.
By following these steps, you can effectively handle a grill fire and stay safe while grilling. Remember to always be mindful of grill safety and take the necessary precautions to prevent accidents from happening.
SERVPRO Of Framingham is The #1 Choice in Cleanup and Restoration for residential and commercial buildings’ fire, mold, water, and storm damage.
Experiencing a fire in your home is an overwhelming and devastating event.
Experiencing a fire in your home is an overwhelming and devastating event. In addition to the emotional toll, there are numerous practical and logistical considerations that must be addressed. One of the most pressing questions is whether or not your home needs to be rebuilt after a fire.
The first step in deciding whether or not your home needs to be rebuilt after a fire is to determine the extent of the damage. A thorough assessment should be conducted by a qualified professional to determine the damage to the structure, electrical and plumbing systems, and any other systems or appliances affected by the fire. In some cases, the damage may be limited to a particular area of the home, and repairs can be made without needing a full rebuild. However, if the damage is extensive, and the cost of repairs is significant, it may be more practical to rebuild the home from scratch.
Once the extent of the damage has been determined, the next step is to assess the cost of repairs versus rebuilding. In some cases, the cost of repairs may be relatively minor and can be covered by insurance. However, if the damage is extensive, the cost of repairs may exceed the value of the home, making a rebuild a more practical solution.
Navigating the process of rebuilding your home after a fire can be complex and challenging. Working with your insurance company and qualified contractors can help to ensure that the process goes smoothly and that your home is rebuilt to the highest standards.
Experiencing a fire in your home is a traumatic experience, and the decision to rebuild can be a difficult one. However, by assessing the extent of the damage, weighing the cost of repairs versus rebuilding, and working with qualified professionals, you can make an informed decision and begin the process of rebuilding your home and your life.
SERVPRO Of Framingham is The #1 Choice in Cleanup and Restoration for residential and commercial buildings’ fire, mold, water, and storm damage.
Bonfires can be a fun way to socialize, relax and create memories, but it’s important to keep safety in mind to avoid accidents and injuries.
The most enjoyable activity is gathering around a bonfire with friends and family. Bonfires can be a fun way to socialize, relax and create memories, but it’s important to keep safety in mind to avoid accidents and injuries. Here are some tips on how to have a safe bonfire:
Choose a safe location: Before starting a bonfire, make sure you have a safe location. Choose a spot away from trees, shrubs, and other flammable objects. Keep at least a 10-foot radius around the fire clear of any objects that could catch fire, and be mindful of any overhanging branches or power lines.
Check the weather: It’s important to check the weather before starting a bonfire. Avoid lighting a fire in windy conditions, as this can increase the risk of the fire spreading. Also, check for any fire restrictions or bans in your area.
Use proper fuel: Use only dry, seasoned wood or charcoal to fuel your bonfire. Do not use gasoline, lighter fluid, or other accelerants to start the fire. These can cause flare-ups and are extremely dangerous.
Supervise children and pets: Children and pets should be supervised at all times around the bonfire. Keep them at a safe distance from the fire and make sure they understand the dangers of playing near the flames.
Keep a fire extinguisher or water source nearby: In case of an emergency, it’s important to have a fire extinguisher or water source nearby. Keep a bucket of water, hose, or fire extinguisher within reach of the bonfire.
Never leave a fire unattended: Bonfires should never be left unattended. Always have someone present to monitor the fire and make sure it doesn’t get out of control.
Properly extinguish the fire: When it’s time to put out the fire, use water to fully extinguish the flames. Make sure all embers and coals are completely extinguished before leaving the fire unattended.
By following these safety tips, you can enjoy a fun and safe bonfire experience with friends and family. Remember, safety should always come first, so take the necessary precautions to prevent accidents and injuries.
SERVPRO Of Framingham is The #1 Choice in Cleanup and Restoration for residential and commercial buildings’ fire, mold, water, and storm damage.
Microwaves can pose safety hazards if not used correctly. One of the most dangerous risks associated with microwaves is the possibility of a fire.
Microwaves have become an essential part of modern kitchens, allowing us to quickly heat up food and beverages. However, as with any appliance, microwaves can pose safety hazards if not used correctly. One of the most dangerous risks associated with microwaves is the possibility of a fire.
The leading cause of microwave fires is the use of inappropriate containers or dishes. Microwave-safe containers are designed to withstand the high heat generated by the microwave, while other containers may melt, warp, or even catch fire. Common materials that are not suitable for microwaving include aluminum foil, metal, plastic containers that are not labeled as microwave-safe, and dishes with metallic or gold paint. When using a microwave, it is crucial to ensure that the containers and dishes you use are labeled as microwave-safe.
Another factor that can cause microwave fires is the buildup of grease or food residue inside the appliance. When food particles accumulate on the walls or ceiling of the microwave, they can overheat and catch fire. It is essential to clean your microwave regularly, especially after cooking greasy or fatty foods. To clean your microwave, use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe the interior surfaces, and avoid using abrasive cleaning agents.
Furthermore, overheating food can also lead to microwave fires. When food is cooked for too long, or if the microwave's power settings are set too high, the food can overheat and ignite. It is vital to follow the cooking instructions carefully and to stop cooking the food once it has reached the recommended temperature. Additionally, never leave your microwave unattended while cooking, as this can lead to overheating and potential fire hazards.
Lastly, a faulty or malfunctioning microwave can also cause fires. If your microwave is making unusual noises, sparks, or emits smoke, it is essential to stop using it immediately and have it inspected by a professional. Do not attempt to repair the appliance yourself, as this can be dangerous.
Microwave fires can be dangerous and should be avoided at all costs. To prevent microwave fires, use only microwave-safe containers, keep your microwave clean, do not overheat food, and have any malfunctioning microwave inspected by a professional. By following these safety tips, you can enjoy the convenience of a microwave without putting yourself or your home at risk.
SERVPRO Of Framingham is The #1 Choice in Cleanup and Restoration for residential and commercial buildings’ fire, mold, water, and storm damage.
Cooking grease is the oil or fat that is left over after cooking, and it can be found in many different forms such as bacon grease, and butter.
Cooking is a daily activity for many people, and while it can be a fun and satisfying experience, it can also be dangerous if proper safety measures are not taken. One common kitchen hazard is the risk of fires caused by cooking grease.
Cooking grease is the oil or fat that is left over after cooking, and it can be found in many different forms such as bacon grease, butter, vegetable oil, and more. It is a common ingredient in many recipes and can be very useful in the kitchen, but it can also be a serious fire hazard if not handled properly.
The reason why cooking grease is so dangerous is that it is highly flammable. If the grease becomes too hot, it can ignite and start a fire. This can happen if you leave a pan on the stove unattended or if you overheat the grease while cooking.
To prevent cooking grease fires, it is important to take a few simple precautions:
Never leave hot grease unattended: When you are cooking with grease, it is important to stay in the kitchen and keep an eye on the pan at all times. If you need to step away, turn off the heat and remove the pan from the stove.
Use a splatter guard: A splatter guard is a mesh screen that is placed over the top of a pan to prevent hot grease from splattering out. This can help reduce the risk of a fire.
Keep a lid nearby: If a fire does break out, you should immediately cover the pan with a lid to smother the flames. This will help prevent the fire from spreading.
Store grease properly: After cooking with grease, it is important to store it in a safe and secure container. This can be a metal can or a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid. Never pour grease down the drain, as this can clog pipes and cause other problems.
Dispose of grease safely: When you are ready to dispose of the grease, wait for it to cool completely and then scrape it into a container that can be sealed. This can then be thrown away in the trash.
In addition to these precautions, it is also important to have a working fire extinguisher in the kitchen and to know how to use it. If a fire does break out, you should use the extinguisher to put out the flames. If the fire is too large or if you are not able to put it out, evacuate the building immediately and call 911.
SERVPRO Of Framingham is The #1 Choice in Cleanup and Restoration for residential and commercial buildings’ fire, mold, water, and storm damage.
A fire safety plan is essential for keeping you and your loved ones safe during a fire.
A fire safety plan is essential for keeping you and your loved ones safe in the event of a fire. Fires can happen suddenly and spread quickly, making it important to have a plan in place that everyone knows and can follow.
Why do you need a fire safety plan?
A fire safety plan can help you and your loved ones stay safe during a fire. It can also help prevent injuries and property damage by ensuring that everyone knows what to do in the event of a fire. Having a plan in place can reduce panic and confusion during an emergency and increase the chances of everyone getting out safely.
How to create a fire safety plan
Draw a floor plan: Start by drawing a floor plan for your home or workplace. Identify all exits, including doors and windows, and ensure they are easily accessible.
Determine a meeting place: Choose a safe meeting place outside of your home or workplace where everyone can gather after evacuating. This could be a neighbor's house, a street corner, or a nearby park.
Assign responsibilities: Assign responsibilities to each person in your household or workplace. This could include tasks such as calling 911, grabbing important documents or belongings, or assisting others in evacuating.
Practice evacuation drills: Regularly practice evacuation drills with everyone in your household or workplace. This will help ensure that everyone knows what to do in the event of a fire and can evacuate safely and quickly.
Install smoke detectors: Install smoke detectors on every level of your home or workplace and test them regularly to make sure they are working correctly. Replace the batteries at least once a year.
Know how to use a fire extinguisher: Make sure that everyone in your household or workplace knows how to use a fire extinguisher and where it is located.
Review and update the plan: Regularly review and update your fire safety plan to ensure that it is still relevant and effective. Make changes as necessary, such as adding new exits or changing responsibilities.
A fire safety plan is essential for keeping you and your loved ones safe during a fire. By creating a plan and regularly practicing evacuation drills, you can increase your chances of getting out safely and prevent injuries and property damage.
We service Ashland, Framingham Centre, Framingham, Hopkinton, Nobscot, Saxonville, and Sudbury, MA
SERVPRO Of Framingham is The #1 Choice in Cleanup and Restoration for residential and commercial buildings’ fire, mold, water, and storm damage.
Bonfires can be a fun activity, but it's important to prioritize safety to prevent accidents or injuries.
Bonfires are a popular outdoor activity that can bring people together for a night of fun and relaxation. However, it's important to prioritize safety when building and enjoying a bonfire. A bonfire can quickly turn into a dangerous situation if proper safety measures are not taken.
Here are bonfire safety tips to keep you and your loved ones safe:
Choose the right location: When selecting the location for your bonfire, make sure to choose an area that is at least 25 feet away from any structures or combustible materials. This includes buildings, trees, bushes, and anything else that can easily catch fire. Also, ensure that the area is flat and level to prevent the fire from spreading.
Clear the area around the bonfire: Before lighting the fire, clear the area around the bonfire of any debris, such as dry leaves, sticks, or branches. This will prevent sparks from igniting any nearby materials.
Use an appropriate container: When building a bonfire, use a container that is made of metal or brick. This will prevent the fire from spreading beyond the container. Never use a container made of plastic, as it can melt and cause the fire to spread.
Keep water or a fire extinguisher nearby: In case of an emergency, make sure to have a bucket of water or a fire extinguisher nearby. This will help you quickly extinguish the fire if it gets out of control.
Don't use accelerants: Never use accelerants, such as gasoline or lighter fluid, to start a bonfire. This can cause an explosion or a sudden flare-up, which can be dangerous.
Attend to the fire at all times: Never leave a bonfire unattended, especially if there are children or pets around. Assign a responsible person to monitor the fire at all times and make sure that it remains under control.
Extinguish the fire properly: When you're done with the bonfire, make sure to extinguish the fire completely. Pour water over the fire and stir the ashes to ensure that there are no hot spots that could reignite the fire.
Bonfires can be a fun activity, but it's important to prioritize safety to prevent accidents or injuries.
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Preparing for a rainstorm is essential for minimizing damage and staying safe.
Rainstorms can come on suddenly and unexpectedly, and it's important to be prepared. Whether you live in an area prone to heavy rain or you're planning a trip during the rainy season, preparing for a rainstorm can help keep you safe and dry.
Learn how to prepare for a rainstorm and what steps you can take to minimize damage and stay safe.
Check the weather forecast: Before you head out, make sure to check the weather forecast. This will help you determine if a rainstorm is likely and when it is expected to arrive. You can plan your activities accordingly and be prepared for any changes in the weather.
Make a plan: If you live in an area prone to heavy rain, it's important to have a plan in case of a rainstorm. This includes knowing where to go if you need to evacuate and having an emergency kit with essentials such as food, water, and a first aid kit.
Protect your home: To protect your home from rain damage, make sure that your gutters are clear of debris and that your roof is in good condition. This will prevent water from seeping into your home and causing damage. You may also want to invest in sandbags to prevent flooding in low-lying areas.
Pack accordingly: If you're planning a trip during the rainy season, make sure to pack accordingly. Bring rain gear such as a waterproof jacket and boots, as well as an umbrella. You may also want to pack a change of clothes and waterproof bags to keep your belongings dry.
Secure loose items: Before a rainstorm arrives, make sure to secure any loose items outside, such as patio furniture or outdoor toys. This will prevent them from being blown away by the wind or causing damage during the storm.
Stay indoors: During a rainstorm, it's best to stay indoors if possible. Avoid driving unless it is necessary, as rain can make roads slippery and reduce visibility. If you do need to go outside, make sure to wear appropriate rain gear and stay away from downed power lines or standing water.
Stay informed: Finally, stay informed during a rainstorm. Listen to local news and weather reports for updates and alerts. Be aware of any potential dangers, such as flooding or landslides, and take appropriate action to stay safe.
Preparing for a rainstorm is essential for minimizing damage and staying safe. By following these tips and being prepared, you can ensure that you and your loved ones are ready for whatever the weather brings.
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A grill fire can happen quickly and without warning, but there are steps you can take to prevent them from occurring.
Grilling is a popular outdoor activity that many people enjoy during the warmer months. Whether you're cooking burgers, chicken, or vegetables, it's important to prioritize safety when using a grill. A grill fire can happen quickly and without warning, but there are steps you can take to prevent them from occurring.
Let’s discuss grill fire safety and tips to keep you and your family safe while enjoying your next cookout.
Choose the right location for your grill: When choosing where to place your grill, ensure that it is at least 10 feet away from your home or any other combustible structures. Keep it away from overhanging branches, deck railings, and other potentially flammable objects.
Clean your grill regularly: Cleaning your grill regularly can prevent grease buildup and reduce the risk of flare-ups. Grease fires can happen when grease and fat accumulate on the grates and drip pans. Make sure to clean your grill after every use, and occasionally deep clean it with a grill brush.
Check for gas leaks: If you have a gas grill, make sure to check the hoses and connections for leaks before every use. A gas leak can cause an explosion or fire, so it's important to be vigilant.
Keep a fire extinguisher nearby: In case of a fire, make sure to have a fire extinguisher nearby. Ensure that you know how to use it before you need it.
Be mindful of what you're cooking: Some foods, like fatty meats or foods marinated in oil, are more likely to cause flare-ups. Be mindful of what you're cooking and how you're cooking it. Keep a close eye on the grill, and use a spray bottle of water to douse any small flames.
Never leave the grill unattended: Never leave the grill unattended, especially if you have children or pets in the area. Accidents can happen quickly, and it's important to be present to address any issues that may arise.
Shut off the grill properly: After you're finished cooking, make sure to shut off the grill properly. Turn off the burners and close the gas valve if you have a gas grill. For a charcoal grill, spread the coals out and let them cool down completely before disposing of them in a metal container.
Grilling can be an enjoyable activity, but it's important to prioritize safety to prevent a grill fire. By following these tips and being mindful of your surroundings, you can ensure that your next cookout is a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
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Water damage can be caused by a variety of factors such as leaky pipes, flooding, or a damaged roof.
Water damage can be caused by a variety of factors such as leaky pipes, flooding, or a damaged roof. If not addressed promptly, water damage can cause significant problems for your home and your health. Here are some of the consequences of not fixing water damage:
Structural damage: Water can weaken the structural integrity of your home, causing warping, cracking, and even collapse of your floors, walls, and ceilings.
Mold growth: Water damage creates a perfect environment for mold to grow, which can lead to serious health problems such as respiratory issues and allergies.
Electrical hazards: Water can cause electrical wiring to malfunction or even short circuit, which can cause fires and pose a serious risk to your safety.
Odor: Water damage can cause unpleasant odors to develop, which can be difficult to eliminate without professional remediation.
Pest infestations: Water damage can attract pests such as rodents and insects, which can thrive in damp environments and cause further damage to your home.
Decreased property value: If left unprepared, water damage can decrease the value of your home and make it difficult to sell in the future.
Health hazards: Water damage can create a breeding ground for bacteria and viruses, which can pose a serious health risk to you and your family.
It is important to seek professional help to repair and restore your home to its pre-damaged condition. By addressing water damage promptly, you can avoid more extensive and expensive repairs down the line and ensure the safety and well-being of your family.
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A fire can be a traumatic and devastating event, and the aftermath can be overwhelming.
A fire can be a traumatic and devastating event, and the aftermath can be overwhelming. However, it's important to take immediate action to start the process of recovery and ensure the safety of your home and family.
Here are some steps you should take after a fire:
Contact your insurance company: One of the first things you should do after a fire is to contact your insurance company. They can help you start the claims process and provide guidance on what steps to take next.
Assess the damage: Once it is safe to do so, assess the damage to your home. Look for any visible damage, including structural damage, water damage, and smoke damage. Take photos of the damage to provide to your insurance company.
Secure your property: If your home is severely damaged, you may need to board up windows and doors or cover damaged areas to prevent further damage from weather or vandalism.
Contact restoration professionals: A professional restoration company can help you with the cleanup, salvage, and restoration of your home and belongings. They can also help you assess the extent of the damage and provide guidance on the best course of action.
Salvage what you can: If it is safe to do so, try to salvage any belongings that were not damaged by the fire. You may be able to save some items with proper cleaning and restoration.
Address smoke damage: Smoke can cause extensive damage to a home, even in areas not directly affected by the fire. Be sure to address smoke damage to prevent health hazards and further damage to your home.
Ensure safety: Before returning to your home, ensure that it is safe to do so. Check for gas leaks, electrical hazards, and other safety concerns.
By contacting your insurance company, assessing the damage, securing your property, contacting restoration professionals, salvaging what you can, addressing smoke damage, and ensuring safety, you can begin to rebuild and move forward after a fire.
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SERVPRO Of Framingham is The #1 Choice in Cleanup and Restoration for residential and commercial buildings’ fire, mold, water, and storm damage.
SERVPRO Of Framingham is The #1 Choice in Cleanup and Restoration for residential and commercial buildings’ fire, mold, water, and storm damage.
Massachusetts is a city that experiences four distinct seasons throughout the year. Each season offers its unique charm, but springtime in Boston is particularly special. With mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and an abundance of outdoor activities, the city comes to life after a long, cold winter.
The spring season typically begins in March and lasts through May. During this time, temperatures can vary greatly, with average highs ranging from the mid-40s to the mid-60s Fahrenheit. It’s not uncommon to experience some chilly and damp days, especially in March, but as the season progresses, the weather becomes milder and more pleasant.
One of the most notable features of springtime in Boston is the blooming of trees and flowers throughout the city. The iconic Boston Common and Public Garden, which covers over 70 acres in the heart of the city, comes to life with colorful tulips, daffodils, and cherry blossoms. The Arnold Arboretum, a 281-acre botanical garden located in Jamaica Plain, also boasts a stunning display of blooming trees and flowers during the spring season.
As the weather warms up, Bostonians and visitors alike take advantage of the many outdoor activities available in the city. Biking and walking along the Charles River Esplanade, which stretches for three miles along the banks of the Charles River, is a popular springtime activity. The Boston Harborwalk, a 43-mile pedestrian trail that winds along Boston’s waterfront, is also a great place to enjoy the spring weather.
Sports fans flock to Fenway Park to catch a Boston Red Sox game, which is an essential Boston experience. Additionally, the Boston Marathon, which takes place on the third Monday in April, is a beloved annual event that draws runners and spectators from around the world.
Boston is a season of renewal and rejuvenation. With mild temperatures, beautiful blooming flowers, and an abundance of outdoor activities, it’s a wonderful time to explore the city and enjoy all that it has to offer.
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Dealing with mold on your walls can be a daunting task, but it's important to take action as soon as possible to prevent it from spreading
Mold on your walls is not only unsightly, but it can also be a health hazard if left untreated. If you have mold on your walls, it's important to take action as soon as possible to prevent it from spreading and causing further damage.
Here are some steps you can take to deal with mold on your walls:
Identify the cause of the mold: The first step in dealing with mold on your walls is to identify the underlying cause. Mold thrives in damp, humid environments, so it's important to identify any sources of moisture that may be contributing to the problem. Common causes of mold on walls include leaky pipes, roof leaks, high humidity levels, and poor ventilation.
Remove the mold: Once you have identified the cause of the mold, it's time to remove it from your walls. Depending on the severity of the mold, you may be able to clean it yourself using a mixture of water and bleach or vinegar. However, if the mold has spread over a large area or is particularly stubborn, it's best to call in a professional mold remediation company to ensure that it is completely removed.
Repair any damage: Once the mold has been removed, it's important to repair any damage to your walls. This may include replacing any damaged drywall or insulation, repairing leaks, or installing a dehumidifier to help control moisture levels.
Prevent future mold growth: To prevent mold from growing on your walls in the future, it's important to take steps to control moisture levels in your home. This may include repairing any leaks promptly, using a dehumidifier in areas with high humidity, and ensuring that your home is properly ventilated.
Dealing with mold on your walls can be a daunting task, but it's important to take action as soon as possible to prevent it from spreading and causing further damage.
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Severe storms can cause significant damage to homes, ranging from minor damage to destruction.
Severe storms can cause significant damage to homes, ranging from minor damage to destruction. It's important to be aware of the potential dangers of storm damage and take steps to protect your home.
Here are some of the most common types of storm damage that can affect a home:
Roof Damage: High winds, hail, and heavy rain can all cause damage to a home's roof. This can include missing or broken shingles, leaks, and even complete roof collapse in extreme cases.
Water Damage: Flooding, leaks, and standing water can cause extensive water damage to a home. This can lead to structural damage, mold growth, and other issues.
Structural Damage: High winds, tornadoes, and other severe weather events can cause significant structural damage to a home. This can include damage to walls, foundations, and support beams, which can compromise the safety of the home.
Window and Door Damage: High winds and hail can damage windows and doors, leaving your home vulnerable to further damage.
Electrical Damage: Lightning strikes and power surges can damage electrical systems in a home, leading to fire hazards and other safety concerns.
Tree Damage: Falling trees and branches can cause extensive damage to a home, including damage to the roof, walls, and other structures.
Car Damage: In severe storms, cars can be lifted or moved by high winds, causing them to crash into homes and other structures.
Severe storms can cause a wide range of damage to homes, from minor to severe. It's important to be aware of the potential dangers of storm damage and take steps to protect your home. By being proactive and taking steps to protect your home, you can minimize the damage caused by severe storms and keep your family safe.
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When a tree falls, it's important to stay safe and take necessary precautions.
Trees can be beautiful and provide many benefits, but they can also be dangerous when they fall. A fallen tree can cause property damage, power outages, and even personal injury.
If a tree falls here are the steps to take:
Assess the situation: The first thing to do when a tree falls is to assess the situation. Check for any immediate danger, such as downed power lines or gas leaks. If you suspect a gas leak, evacuate immediately and call your gas company.
Call for help: If the fallen tree has caused damage or poses a danger to people or property, call for help. Contact your local emergency services or utility company. They can dispatch crews to assess the situation and make necessary repairs.
Stay away from the tree: If the tree has fallen across a road or path, do not attempt to move it yourself. Fallen trees can be heavy and unstable, and attempting to move them can be dangerous. Stay away from the tree and wait for professional help to arrive.
Document the damage: Take photos of any damage caused by the fallen tree. This will be useful when filing insurance claims or for repair purposes.
Clear debris: If the fallen tree has caused minor damage, you may be able to clear the debris yourself. Use caution and wear protective clothing, such as gloves and sturdy shoes. Use a chainsaw or hand saw to cut the tree into manageable pieces, and dispose of the debris according to local regulations.
Prevent future incidents: To prevent future incidents, inspect trees on your property regularly. Look for signs of decay or damage, such as cracks in the trunk or branches that are hanging low. Consider hiring a professional tree service to remove any trees that pose a danger.
When a tree falls, it's important to stay safe and take necessary precautions. Assess the situation, call for help, document the damage, clear debris if possible, and prevent future incidents.
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What types of storms are there in spring Framingham MA?
The spring season can bring with it a variety of weather patterns, including rainstorms, thunderstorms, and tornadoes
As the season transitions from winter to spring, it brings with it a variety of weather patterns that can be unpredictable and sometimes dangerous. One of the most notable weather events of the spring season is storms. Spring storms can range from mild rain showers to severe thunderstorms and even tornadoes.
Rainstorms: These storms are characterized by heavy rainfalls, which can last for several hours or even days. They often occur as warm, moist air from the south collides with colder air from the north, leading to the formation of cumulonimbus clouds. While rainstorms can be beneficial for the environment, helping to replenish water supplies, they can also lead to flooding and landslides if the rainfall is too heavy. As such, it's important to stay up to date with weather alerts and to take precautions to protect yourself and your property.
Thunderstorms: These storms are characterized by the presence of thunder and lightning, which are caused by the discharge of electrical energy between the ground and the atmosphere. Thunderstorms can be dangerous, with the potential to produce strong winds, hail, and tornadoes.
Tornadoes: They are characterized by a rotating column of air that forms within a thunderstorm and can cause widespread damage, including uprooting trees, damaging buildings, and even destroying entire communities. While tornadoes can occur at any time of the year, they are most common during the spring season.
Dust storms: While not as common as the other types of storms on this list, dust storms can occur during the spring season in arid regions. These storms are characterized by strong winds that pick up dust and dirt, leading to reduced visibility and potentially hazardous driving conditions. If you live in an area that is prone to dust storms, it's important to avoid driving during these conditions and to take precautions to protect your eyes and respiratory system from dust.
The spring season can bring with it a variety of weather patterns, including rainstorms, thunderstorms, tornadoes, and dust storms. It's important to stay up to date with weather alerts and to take precautions to protect yourself and your property during these weather events.
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Preparing for a thunderstorm is essential to keeping yourself and your loved ones safe.
Thunderstorms are powerful weather events that can bring lightning, high winds, heavy rain, and hail. While they are a natural occurrence, they can also be dangerous, causing property damage, power outages, and even injury or death. Here are some essential steps you can take to prepare for a thunderstorm.
Stay informed: One of the most important things you can do to prepare for a thunderstorm is to stay informed about the weather conditions in your area. Keep an eye on local weather reports and download a reliable weather app that can give you up-to-date information. You can also sign up for emergency alerts or notifications from your local authorities.
Create an emergency kit: Putting together an emergency kit is an excellent way to prepare for a thunderstorm. Your kit should include items like a flashlight, extra batteries, a first aid kit, bottled water, non-perishable food, a portable radio, and a phone charger. Keep your kit in a designated place where you can easily access it during a storm.
Secure your home: It is essential to secure your home before a thunderstorm. Make sure your doors and windows are closed and locked and remove any objects that could become airborne in high winds, such as lawn furniture or outdoor decorations. You can also reinforce your doors and windows with shutters or plywood to protect against flying debris.
Unplug electronics: Lightning strikes can cause power surges that can damage your electronic devices. To prevent this, unplug your electronics before the storm arrives. This includes appliances, televisions, computers, and other devices.
Stay inside: The best way to stay safe during a thunderstorm is to stay inside a sturdy building or a car. If you are outside when the storm hits, seek shelter immediately. Avoid standing under trees or other tall objects that could attract lightning strikes. If you are driving, pull over and park in a safe location until the storm passes.
Wait for the storm to pass: Thunderstorms can be intense but usually pass relatively quickly. Once the storm has passed, wait for a while before going outside to assess any damage or potential hazards. Stay away from any downed power lines or other hazards and contact emergency services if necessary.
Preparing for a thunderstorm is essential to keeping yourself and your loved ones safe. Staying informed, creating an emergency kit, securing your home, unplugging electronics, staying inside, and waiting for the storm to pass are all critical steps to take.
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Does my insurance cover home damage in Framingham MA?
Your insurance policy may provide coverage for water damage, but it's important to understand what is covered.
Home insurance provides financial protection against various risks that could cause damage or loss to your home, such as natural disasters, theft, and accidents. However, many homeowners are often uncertain about what their insurance coverage includes when it comes to home damage.
Natural disasters such as earthquakes, floods, and hurricanes can cause significant damage to your home. Depending on your policy, your insurance coverage may include protection against these types of events.
Home fires can be devastating, causing significant damage to your property and belongings. Your insurance policy may provide coverage for the cost of repairing or rebuilding your home, as well as replacing your damaged possessions.
Homeowners' insurance can provide coverage for stolen or damaged property due to theft or vandalism. This coverage typically includes damage to your home's structure and any personal property that has been stolen or damaged.
Accidents can happen at any time, and they can be costly to repair. Home insurance policies may provide coverage for accidental damage to your home, such as damage caused by a tree falling on your house or your child accidentally breaking a window.
Your insurance policy may provide coverage for water damage, but it's important to understand what is covered, as some policies may exclude certain types of water damage.
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How long does it take for water damage to be fixed?
If you experience water damage, it is best to contact a professional restoration company to ensure that the damage is fixed properly.
Water damage is a common problem that many homeowners face. It can be caused by a variety of factors such as leaks, flooding, and burst pipes. Water damage can have severe consequences if not fixed promptly.
The timeline for fixing water damage depends on the severity of the damage. In minor cases, such as a small leak, the damage can be fixed within a few hours or a day. However, for more severe cases such as a flooded basement, it can take several days or even weeks to fix the damage.
The first step in fixing water damage is to identify the source of the water and stop it from causing further damage. This may involve shutting off the main water supply or fixing a broken pipe. Once the source of the water has been identified and fixed, the water damage restoration process can begin. The restoration process typically involves several stages, including water extraction, drying, and repair. The amount of time it takes to complete each stage depends on the extent of the damage.
Drying is the next stage, and it involves removing any remaining moisture from the affected area. This can be done using dehumidifiers and fans. The duration of this stage depends on the extent of the water damage and the humidity levels in the affected area.
Once the area has been dried, repairs can begin. This may involve replacing drywall, flooring, and other materials that were damaged by the water. The duration of this stage depends on the extent of the damage and the materials that need to be replaced.
If you experience water damage, it is best to contact a professional restoration company to ensure that the damage is fixed properly and efficiently.
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What should I do if my house is affected by storm damage in Framingham MA?
Natural disasters like storms can wreak havoc on homes, causing significant damage and posing safety hazards.
Natural disasters like storms can wreak havoc on homes, causing significant damage and posing safety hazards. If your home has been affected by storm damage, it's crucial to act quickly to minimize the damage and ensure the safety of yourself and your family. Here's what you should do:
Assess the damage and prioritize safety: If your home has suffered severe damage, it may be unsafe to stay inside. Look for signs of structural damage, such as cracks in the walls, ceilings, or foundation, and assess the damage to the roof, windows, and doors.
Document the damage: Take photos and videos of the damage to your home, both inside and out. This documentation will be important when filing an insurance claim.
Contact your insurance company: Your insurer will likely send an adjuster to assess the damage and determine the amount of compensation you're entitled to.
Make temporary repairs: Cover any holes in the roof or walls with tarps or boards, and use sandbags or other materials to block any openings where water could enter your home. Keep in mind that any repairs you make should be documented and kept for insurance purposes.
Hire a reputable contractor: Look for contractors who are licensed and insured, and who have experience with storm damage repairs.
Stay organized: Keep track of all communication with your insurance company and contractor, including emails, phone calls, and written correspondence. Make note of any promises or agreements made, and keep copies of all paperwork related to the claims process.
Prepare for future storms: Consider adding storm shutters or reinforcing your roof to make it more resistant to high winds. Keep important documents in a waterproof and fireproof safe, and have an emergency kit ready in case you need to evacuate quickly.
Storm damage can be a stressful and overwhelming experience, but taking these steps can help you navigate the process and get your home back to normal as soon as possible.
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SERVPRO Of Framingham is The #1 Choice in Cleanup and Restoration for residential and commercial buildings’ fire, mold, water, and storm damage.
A home rebuild can result in a beautiful, customized home that meets your needs and exceeds your expectations.
When it comes to renovating your home, there are many options to consider. You could do a simple cosmetic update, such as repainting the walls or replacing the flooring. But what exactly does a home rebuild entail, and how do you know if it's the right choice for you?
A home rebuild, also known as a rebuild or a complete home renovation, involves tearing down the existing structure and rebuilding it from scratch. This approach is usually taken when the existing home is outdated or has been damaged.
So, what are some of the signs that a home rebuild might be the right choice for you? Here are a few things to consider:
Your current home is outdated or in poor condition. If your home is showing signs of wear and tear, such as a cracking foundation, leaking roof, or outdated electrical or plumbing systems, a complete home rebuild may be the best solution. Starting from scratch allows you to incorporate modern building materials and technologies, resulting in a safer, more energy-efficient home.
You want to customize your living space. One of the benefits of a home rebuild is the ability to design a home that meets your specific needs and tastes. Whether you want an open-concept living area, a spacious kitchen, or a master suite with a spa-like bathroom, a home rebuild allows you to create a home that reflects your unique lifestyle.
You're willing to invest time and money in the project. A home rebuild is a major undertaking that requires careful planning, budgeting, and management. It's important to work with an experienced team of professionals, such as architects, builders, and designers, to ensure that your project is executed correctly and to your satisfaction.
You have experienced a great loss and damage from fire, water, or storm damage in your building. When a disaster hits, this can be the time when rebuilding is critical.
You're prepared to live in temporary housing during the construction phase. A home rebuild can take several months or even years to complete, depending on the size and complexity of the project. During this time, you'll need to find alternative housing, such as a rental apartment or temporary housing unit.
A home rebuild can be a daunting undertaking, but it can also be a rewarding one. If you're considering a home rebuild, take the time to carefully evaluate your needs, budget, and timeline, and work with a team of experienced professionals to ensure a successful outcome.
With proper planning and execution, a home rebuild can result in a beautiful, customized home that meets your needs and exceeds your expectations.
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SERVPRO Of Framingham is The #1 Choice in Cleanup and Restoration for residential and commercial buildings’ fire, mold, water, and storm damage.
SERVPRO Of Framingham is The #1 Choice in Cleanup and Restoration for residential and commercial buildings’ fire, mold, water, and storm damage.
Mold is a common problem that affects many households. It can cause significant damage to your property and even pose a health risk to you and your family. Mold grows in damp and humid environments, and it can thrive on various surfaces, including walls, ceilings, carpets, and furniture. Fortunately, there are ways to prevent mold damage in your home.
Keep your home dry: Mold thrives in damp and humid environments, so the best way to prevent mold damage is to keep your home dry. You can do this by fixing any leaks in your plumbing, roof, or windows. Make sure that your home is properly ventilated, especially in areas like the bathroom, kitchen, and laundry room. Use a dehumidifier if necessary to reduce the humidity levels in your home.
Clean and maintain your HVAC system: Your HVAC system plays a crucial role in maintaining the air quality in your home. It can also help to prevent mold growth. Make sure to clean and maintain your HVAC system regularly to prevent any buildup of dust or moisture, which can lead to mold growth. Replace your air filters at least once every three months to ensure that your system is running efficiently.
Use mold-resistant products: When renovating or building your home, consider using mold-resistant materials such as drywall, paints, and insulation. These materials are specially designed to resist mold growth and can help to prevent mold damage in the long run.
Monitor indoor humidity levels: Mold thrives in humid environments, so it's important to keep an eye on indoor humidity levels. The ideal humidity level is between 30 and 50 percent. You can use a hygrometer to measure the humidity levels in your home.
Clean and dry any water damage promptly: Water damage is one of the leading causes of mold growth. If you experience any water damage in your home, it's important to clean and dry the affected area as soon as possible.
Mold damage can be a significant problem for homeowners, but it's a problem that can be prevented. By keeping your home dry, maintaining your HVAC system, using mold-resistant products, monitoring indoor humidity levels, and cleaning and drying any water damage promptly, you can help to prevent mold growth and protect your home from mold damage.
We service Ashland, Framingham Centre, Framingham, Hopkinton, Nobscot, Saxonville, and Sudbury, MA
SERVPRO Of Framingham is The #1 Choice in Cleanup and Restoration for residential and commercial buildings’ fire, mold, water, and storm damage.
What are the steps for a commercial rebuild in Framingham MA?
We service Ashland, Framingham Centre, Framingham, Hopkinton, Nobscot, Saxonville, and Sudbury, MA
Commercial rebuilds can be an exciting and daunting undertaking for any business owner. It can be a chance to revamp your business and take it to the next level, but it requires careful planning and execution. Here are the essential steps you need to follow to ensure a successful commercial rebuild.
Step 1: Define your goals and budget: Determine what changes you want to make and why. This will help you determine the scope of the project and the budget you'll need to allocate. Be realistic with your budget and plan for unexpected expenses.
Step 2: Hire a contractor: You will need to hire an experienced contractor to help you plan and execute the rebuild. Look for professionals with experience in commercial construction, and make sure to check their references and past projects.
Step 3: Obtain permits and approvals: Before you can start construction, you'll need to obtain the necessary permits and approvals from the local building department. This can be a time-consuming process, so it's important to start early and plan accordingly.
Step 4: Demolition and site preparation: Once you have all the necessary permits and approvals, you can start the demolition and site preparation process. This will involve removing any existing structures and preparing the site for construction.
Step 5: Construction: The construction phase involves building the new structure according to the plans created by your architect. This will include everything from framing and roofing to electrical and plumbing systems. Your contractor will oversee this process and ensure that everything is built to code and on schedule.
Step 6: Inspections and final touches: After construction is complete, your building will need to be inspected to ensure that it meets all safety and building codes. Once the inspections are complete, you can begin adding the final touches, such as flooring, paint, and fixtures.
Step 7: Move-in and reopening
Once the final touches are complete, you can move back into the building and reopen your business.
Commercial rebuilds require careful planning, budgeting, and execution. By following these essential steps, you can ensure a successful rebuild that meets your goals and exceeds your expectations. With the help of experienced professionals, you can transform your business and take it to the next level.
We service Ashland, Framingham Centre, Framingham, Hopkinton, Nobscot, Saxonville, and Sudbury, MA
SERVPRO Of Framingham is The #1 Choice in Cleanup and Restoration for residential and commercial buildings’ fire, mold, water, and storm damage.
What are the steps for water damage in Framingham MA?
If the damage is extensive, it's best to hire a professional restoration company to ensure your home is restored to its pre-damaged condition.
Water damage can be one of the most destructive problems a homeowner can face. Whether it's due to a burst pipe, a leaking roof, or flooding, water damage can cause extensive damage to your home, furniture, and personal belongings. However, taking the right steps as soon as you discover water damage can minimize the damage and save you money in the long run.
Ensure your safety: The first step in dealing with water damage is to ensure your safety. If the water damage is severe, turn off the electricity, gas, and water supply to your home before entering the affected area. Water can conduct electricity, so it's crucial to ensure your safety before entering a flooded area.
Document the damage: Before you start cleaning up the water, it's essential to document the damage for insurance purposes. Take pictures and videos of the damage to your home, furniture, and personal belongings.
Remove standing water: The next step is to remove any standing water as quickly as possible. You can use a wet/dry vacuum to remove the water or hire a professional restoration company to do the job for you.
Dry out the affected area: After removing the standing water, the next step is to dry out the affected area. You can use fans and dehumidifiers to speed up the drying process. If the water damage is extensive, it's best to hire a professional restoration company that has the equipment and expertise to dry out your home thoroughly.
Clean and disinfect: Once the affected area is completely dry, it's essential to clean and disinfect the area to prevent mold growth. You can use a bleach solution to disinfect the affected area or hire a professional cleaning company to do the job for you.
Repair and restore: The final step is to repair and restore any damage. This may include replacing drywall, flooring, or furniture. It's essential to address any damage as soon as possible to prevent further problems down the road.
Water damage can be a devastating problem for homeowners. However, taking the right steps as soon as you discover water damage can minimize the damage and save you money in the long run.
If the damage is extensive, it's best to hire a professional restoration company to ensure your home is restored to its pre-damaged condition.
SERVPRO Of Framingham is The #1 Choice in Cleanup and Restoration for residential and commercial buildings’ fire, mold, water, and storm damage.
During the rebuilding process, it's important to keep the end goal in mind: creating a home that is comfortable and safe.
Rebuilding a home is a major undertaking, but it can also be a rewarding experience. Whether you are rebuilding due to a natural disaster or simply renovating an older home, there are several key factors to consider as you embark on this journey.
First, you'll need to assess the scope of the project. Will you be tearing down the existing structure and starting from scratch, or will you be working with the existing framework? This will depend on the condition of the home, your budget, and your overall goals.
Next, you'll want to consider the layout of the home. Are there any areas that you would like to expand or modify? Do you need to reconfigure the layout to better suit your lifestyle or family needs? This is a good time to work with an architect or designer to create a blueprint of your new home.
Once you have a clear plan for the layout, it's time to consider the materials and finishes you will use. This includes everything from the roofing materials to the flooring, cabinetry, and countertops. You'll want to choose materials that are durable, high-quality, and in line with your personal style.
As you move forward with the rebuilding process, it's important to stay organized and keep a close eye on your budget. You may encounter unexpected expenses, so it's important to have some contingency funds set aside. You'll also want to work closely with your contractors and subcontractors to ensure that the project stays on track and within your desired timeline.
During the rebuilding process, it's important to keep the end goal in mind: creating a home that is comfortable, safe, and reflects your personal style. This can be a challenging process, but with the right team and the right approach, it can also be an exciting and rewarding journey.
Rebuilding a home is a major undertaking that requires careful planning, a skilled team, and a clear vision for the end result. Whether you are rebuilding due to a natural disaster or simply renovating an older home, it's important to take the time to carefully consider the scope of the project, the layout of the home, the materials and finishes you will use, and your budget. With the right approach and a dedicated team, you can create a beautiful and functional new home that you will enjoy for years to come.
SERVPRO of Framingham is your premier choice for damage and restoration. Our teams are ready to respond 24 hours a week, any day of the year. When you bring us on the job our team of licensed contractors and certified technicians will work collaboratively with you throughout the duration of the project. They will keep you updated on the project's status and ensure that your expectations are met. We will help you to move forward and make it “Like it never even happened” for all of your fire damage.
Removing odors can be a challenging task, but it is not impossible.
Odors can be unpleasant and difficult to remove, especially if they are deeply embedded in fabrics or other materials. Fortunately, there are several effective methods for odor removal that can help you get rid of unwanted smells in your home. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the most effective ways to remove odors from various surfaces.
Ventilate the area: One of the easiest and most effective ways to remove odors is to ventilate the area. This can be done by opening windows and doors to let in fresh air, using a fan to circulate the air, or simply turning on your air conditioning or heating system to help remove any stagnant or stale air.
Baking soda: Baking soda is a natural deodorizer that can help remove odors from a variety of surfaces. Simply sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda onto the affected area and let it sit for several hours or overnight. Then, vacuum or sweep up the baking soda and any residual odor.
White vinegar: White vinegar is another effective natural deodorizer that can help remove stubborn odors. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle and apply to the affected area. Let it sit for several hours, then wipe clean with a damp cloth.
Activated charcoal: Activated charcoal is a powerful odor absorber that can help eliminate even the strongest of smells. Simply place a few pieces of activated charcoal in a container and leave it in the affected area for several hours or overnight. The charcoal will absorb the odor and leave the air smelling fresh and clean.
Enzyme cleaners: Enzyme cleaners are specially designed to break down organic matter and eliminate odors. They can be used on a variety of surfaces, including carpets, upholstery, and clothing. Simply apply the enzyme cleaner to the affected area, let it sit for several hours, then wash or rinse as directed.
Professional cleaning: If all else fails, it may be time to call in the professionals. Professional cleaning services have the tools and expertise to remove even the toughest odors, whether they are in your carpets, furniture, or air ducts. They can also help identify the source of the odor and provide advice on how to prevent it from returning in the future.
Removing odors can be a challenging task, but it is not impossible. Whether you opt for natural remedies or professional cleaning services, it is important to take action as soon as possible to prevent the odor from getting worse and spreading to other areas of your home.
SERVPRO of Framingham is your premier choice for fire damage and restoration. Our teams are ready to respond 24 hours a week, any day of the year. When you bring us on the job our team of licensed contractors and certified technicians will work collaboratively with you throughout the duration of the project. They will keep you updated on the project's status and ensure that your expectations are met. We will help you to move forward and make it “Like it never even happened” for all of your fire damage.
Mold is a type of fungus that thrives in damp and humid environments. It grows quickly and can spread rapidly, causing damage to the structure.
Mold is a type of fungus that thrives in damp and humid environments. It grows quickly and can spread rapidly, causing damage to the structure of a building and posing a health risk to its occupants. Mold damage is a serious problem that requires immediate attention and remediation. In this blog post, we will explore the causes and effects of mold damage, as well as how to prevent and address it.
Causes of Mold Damage
Some of the most common causes of mold damage include:
Water leaks: Leaky pipes, roofs, and windows can all contribute to the growth of mold.
Flooding: If a building is flooded, the excess water can create a perfect breeding ground for mold.
Humidity: High levels of humidity in a building can create conditions that are ideal for mold growth.
Poor ventilation: Without adequate ventilation, moisture can become trapped in a building, providing a perfect environment for mold to grow.
Effects of Mold Damage
Mold damage can have a number of negative effects on a building and its occupants. Some of the most common effects include:
Structural damage: Mold can weaken the structure of a building, leading to cracks, warping, and other forms of damage.
Health risks: Exposure to mold can lead to a number of health problems, including respiratory issues, allergic reactions, and skin irritation.
Property damage: Mold can damage walls, floors, and other surfaces, requiring expensive repairs and replacements.
Prevention of Mold Damage
Preventing mold damage is much easier than dealing with it after it has already occurred. Here are some tips for preventing mold growth in your building:
Keep humidity levels under control: Make sure that your building has adequate ventilation and use dehumidifiers to control humidity levels.
Repair water leaks: Fix any leaks as soon as they are detected to prevent moisture from building up.
Keep your building clean: Regular cleaning can help prevent mold growth by removing any spores that may be present.
Inspect your building regularly: Regular inspections can help you identify any potential problems before they become major issues.
Remediation of Mold Damage
If you suspect that you have mold damage in your building, it is important to address the problem as soon as possible. Here are the steps involved in mold remediation:
Identify the source of the problem: Determine the source of the moisture that is causing the mold growth.
Contain the mold: Use barriers to prevent the mold from spreading to other areas of the building.
Remove the mold: Use specialized equipment and cleaning agents to remove the mold.
Repair any damage: Repair any damage that was caused by the mold growth.
Take steps to prevent future mold growth: Take steps to prevent future mold growth by addressing any moisture problems and keeping the building clean.
SERVPRO of Framingham is your premier choice for mold damage and restoration. Our teams are ready to respond 24 hours a week, any day of the year. When you bring us on the job our team of licensed contractors and certified technicians will work collaboratively with you throughout the duration of the project. They will keep you updated on the project's status and ensure that your expectations are met. We will help you to move forward and make it “Like it never even happened” for all of your fire damage.
Flooding is a natural disaster that can have significant impacts on communities and economies.
Flooding is a natural disaster that occurs when an area is overwhelmed by water, either from heavy rainfall or rising bodies of water. It can cause significant damage to infrastructure, homes, businesses, and agricultural land, and can be devastating to those affected. In this blog post, we will discuss the causes and impacts of flooding, as well as some measures that can be taken to mitigate its effects.
Causes of Flooding
Flooding can be caused by a variety of factors, including natural events and human activities. The most common natural cause of the flooding is heavy rainfall, particularly during prolonged periods of wet weather. This can lead to rivers and streams overflowing their banks, and low-lying areas becoming flooded.
Flooding can also be caused by rising sea levels, as well as coastal storms and hurricanes. These events can cause significant damage to coastal communities, particularly those in low-lying areas.
Human activities can also contribute to flooding. For example, the construction of buildings and other infrastructure can alter the natural flow of water, leading to increased flooding.
Impacts of Flooding
Flooding can have significant impacts on individuals, communities, and economies. The most immediate impact is damage to homes, and businesses. This can result in the displacement of residents, loss of livelihoods, and disruption of essential services.
Flooding can also have long-term impacts on the environment. For example, it can lead to soil erosion, which can reduce the fertility of agricultural land. It can also lead to water pollution, as floodwaters can carry contaminants into rivers and other bodies of water.
Finally, flooding can have significant economic impacts. In addition to the direct costs of repairing damage to infrastructure and homes, flooding can also disrupt supply chains and reduce economic activity in affected areas.
Finally, it is important to ensure that communities are prepared for flooding. This can involve measures such as developing early warning systems, establishing emergency shelters, and educating residents on how to prepare for and respond to flooding events.
Flooding is a natural disaster that can have significant impacts on communities and economies. By understanding the causes and impacts of flooding, and implementing measures to mitigate its effects, we can work to protect our communities and reduce the impact of this devastating natural event.
SERVPRO of Framingham is your premier choice for fire damage and restoration. Our teams are ready to respond 24 hours a week, any day of the year. When you bring us on the job our team of licensed contractors and certified technicians will work collaboratively with you throughout the duration of the project. They will keep you updated on the project's status and ensure that your expectations are met. We will help you to move forward and make it “Like it never even happened” for all of your fire damage.
Fires are a natural disaster that can have significant impacts on people, animals, and the environment.
Fires are natural disaster that can occur in many different forms, from small brush fires to large-scale forest fires. They can happen at any time, and they can be devastating in terms of the damage they can cause to property, natural habitats, and human lives. In this blog post, we will explore some of the key aspects of fires, including their causes, impacts, and prevention.
Causes of Fires
Fires can be caused by a wide range of factors, including natural causes such as lightning strikes, as well as human activities such as campfires, cooking, and smoking. In some cases, fires can also be caused by electrical faults or mechanical failures, such as faulty wiring or overheated equipment. In recent years, climate change has been identified as a major contributor to the increased incidence and severity of fires, as rising temperatures and changing weather patterns have created more favorable conditions for fires to occur.
Impacts of Fires
The impacts of fires can be far-reaching and long-lasting, affecting everything from the immediate safety of people and animals to the long-term health of ecosystems. In the short term, fires can cause injury and death to people and animals, as well as damage to property and infrastructure. In the long term, fires can have significant impacts on natural habitats, including loss of vegetation, changes in soil composition, and loss of biodiversity. Fires can also have a significant impact on the climate, releasing large amounts of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere.
Prevention of Fires
Preventing fires requires a multi-faceted approach, including education, awareness, and proactive measures. This includes educating people about the risks and causes of fires, as well as providing information on how to prevent them. Some of the key preventative measures include regular maintenance of electrical equipment, avoiding open fires in high-risk areas, and ensuring that campfires are extinguished completely before leaving the site. Other important steps include monitoring weather conditions and fire danger ratings, as well as being prepared to evacuate in the event of an emergency.
Fires are a natural disaster that can have significant impacts on people, animals, and the environment. While they can be difficult to prevent, there are many steps that can be taken to reduce the risk of fires and mitigate their impacts. By working together and taking a proactive approach to fire prevention, we can help to protect our communities, natural habitats, and the planet as a whole.
SERVPRO of Framingham is your premier choice for fire damage and restoration. Our teams are ready to respond 24 hours a week, any day of the year. When you bring us on the job our team of licensed contractors and certified technicians will work collaboratively with you throughout the duration of the project. They will keep you updated on the project's status and ensure that your expectations are met. We will help you to move forward and make it “Like it never even happened” for all of your fire damage.
SERVPRO of Framingham Shares Preventing Mold Damage: Essential Tips for a Healthy Home
By following these tips, you can help prevent mold damage in your home, protecting your family's health and your home's structure.
Mold damage can be a major problem in many homes, causing health problems and damaging the structure of the building. In order to prevent mold damage, it is important to understand the conditions that allow mold to thrive and what steps can be taken to prevent its growth.
Here are some tips to help you prevent mold damage in your home:
Control humidity levels: Mold thrives in moist environments, so it is essential to keep indoor humidity levels low. Use a dehumidifier to remove excess moisture from the air, and use air conditioning or fans to circulate air in damp areas.
Fix leaks: Promptly fix any leaks in your roof, walls, or plumbing to prevent water damage and mold growth
Keep surfaces clean and dry: Regularly clean and dry surfaces in high-risk areas such as bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. Use a mold-resistant cleaning solution to disinfect surfaces and prevent mold from growing.
Increase ventilation: Ensure that your home has proper ventilation to help prevent mold growth. This can be achieved by opening windows and doors regularly, using exhaust fans, and keeping air vents clear.
Inspect and maintain HVAC systems: Your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems can become a breeding ground for mold if not properly maintained. Inspect them regularly and have them serviced by a professional if needed.
Store items properly: Store items, especially paper products and organic materials, properly in sealed containers to prevent mold growth
Regularly inspect your home: Regular inspections of your home can help identify mold damage early, allowing you to take action before it becomes a bigger problem. Look for discoloration on walls and ceilings, a musty odor, or any other signs of moisture damage.
By following these tips, you can help prevent mold damage in your home, protecting your family's health and your home's structure. If you suspect mold growth in your home, it is important to have it inspected and professionally remediated to avoid further damage and health problems.
SERVPRO of Framingham is your premier choice for fire damage and restoration. Our teams are ready to respond 24 hours a week, any day of the year. When you bring us on the job our team of licensed contractors and certified technicians will work collaboratively with you throughout the duration of the project. They will keep you updated on the project's status and ensure that your expectations are met. We will help you to move forward and make it “Like it never even happened” for all of your fire damage.
SERVPRO of Framingham Discusses How To Prevent Flooding in a Basement
If your basement is flooded, it's important to take immediate action to prevent further damage and to mitigate any health risks
Flooding in a basement can be a stressful and devastating experience. It can cause extensive damage to your property and belongings, and if not addressed promptly, it can also lead to mold growth, which can pose serious health risks. In this blog post, we will discuss the causes of basement flooding, the steps you can take to prevent it, and what to do if your basement is flooded.
There are many reasons why a basement can flood. Some common causes include:
Heavy rainfall: When there is an excessive amount of rainfall in a short period of time, it can cause water to seep into the basement through cracks in the foundation, windows, or doorways.
Overflowing gutters and downspouts: If your gutters and downspouts are clogged, water will overflow and can seep into the basement.
Sewer backup: A sewer backup occurs when wastewater from the sewer system enters your basement. This can be caused by a blockage in the sewer line, heavy rainfall, or a malfunction in the sewage system.
High water table: If the water table is high in your area, it can cause water to seep into the basement through the walls or floor.
To prevent basement flooding, there are several steps you can take:
Install a sump pump: A sump pump is a device that pumps water out of the basement when it reaches a certain level.
Check your gutters and downspouts regularly: Make sure they are clear of debris and are directing water away from the foundation of your home.
Install backflow valves: Backflow valves prevent sewer water from flowing back into your home.
Seal cracks in the foundation: If you find cracks in the foundation of your home, have them sealed to prevent water from seeping in.
If your basement is flooded, it's important to take immediate action to prevent further damage and to mitigate any health risks:
Turn off the electricity: If water has entered your basement, turn off the electricity to prevent electrical shock.
Remove water: If the water level is not too high, use a pump or wet vacuum to remove the water. If the water level is too high, call a professional to remove the water.
Clean and dry everything: Once the water has been removed, clean and dry all the items in the basement. This includes walls, floors, furniture, and other belongings.
Call in professionals: If the damage is extensive, it's best to call in a professional to assess the damage and make any necessary repairs.
Basement flooding can be a stressful and devastating experience, but by taking the steps to prevent it and knowing what to do if it occurs, you can minimize the damage and health risks associated with it. If you do experience basement flooding, don't hesitate to call in a professional to help with the cleanup and repair process.
SERVPRO of Framingham is your premier choice for fire damage and restoration. Our teams are ready to respond 24 hours a week, any day of the year. When you bring us on the job our team of licensed contractors and certified technicians will work collaboratively with you throughout the duration of the project. They will keep you updated on the project's status and ensure that your expectations are met. We will help you to move forward and make it “Like it never even happened” for all of your fire damage.
SERVPRO of Framingham: How to Deal with Fire in the Workplace: Tips and Strategies"
Having a fire response plan in place and understanding the proper procedures to follow can help prevent damage, minimize injury and ensure safety
A fire can happen at any time and place, and it is crucial for businesses to be prepared. Having a fire response plan in place and understanding the proper procedures to follow can help prevent damage, minimize injury and ensure the safety of everyone in the workplace.
Here are some tips and strategies to help you deal with fire in your business:
Establish a fire response plan: This should include the proper procedures to follow in case of a fire, such as evacuation procedures, and the designated meeting place for employees after evacuation.
Install fire alarms and fire suppression systems: Fire alarms should be placed throughout the workplace, and fire suppression systems such as sprinklers should be installed to help put out the fire.
Regularly inspect and maintain fire equipment: Regular inspections and maintenance of fire alarms, fire suppression systems and other fire equipment is essential to ensure they are functioning properly and can be used in the event of a fire.
Conduct regular fire drills: Regular fire drills are important to help employees understand what to do in the event of a fire, and to ensure that everyone is prepared.
Store flammable materials properly: Flammable materials should be stored in fireproof cabinets, away from heat sources and potential sources of ignition.
Train employees: Employees should be trained on the proper procedures to follow in case of a fire, including how to evacuate the building, how to use fire extinguishers, and how to report the fire.
Have an emergency evacuation plan: An emergency evacuation plan should be in place and clearly communicated to all employees. This should include the designated meeting place for employees after evacuation.
By following these tips and strategies, you can help prevent damage, minimize injury, and ensure the safety of everyone in your workplace in case of a fire. Remember, being prepared and knowing the proper procedures to follow can help you effectively deal with a fire and get back to business as soon as possible.
SERVPRO of Framingham is your premier choice for fire damage and restoration. Our teams are ready to respond 24 hours a week, any day of the year. When you bring us on the job our team of licensed contractors and certified technicians will work collaboratively with you throughout the duration of the project. They will keep you updated on the project's status and ensure that your expectations are met. We will help you to move forward and make it “Like it never even happened” for all of your fire damage.
SERVPRO of Framingham Explains Winter Storm Damage
In the event that winter storm damage occurs, it is important to act quickly to prevent further damage. Contact a professional to assess the damage.
Winter storms can bring both beautiful snow and dangerous ice. While these events can be exciting for some, they can also cause significant damage to homes and businesses. Here are some common types of winter storm damage and tips for protecting your property.
Roof damage: Heavy snow and ice can put a lot of weight on your roof, which can cause damage, including cracks, leaks, and even collapse. Regularly removing snow and ice from your roof can help prevent damage.
Frozen pipes: When pipes freeze, they can burst and cause significant water damage to your home or business. To prevent this, make sure your pipes are properly insulated and kept at a temperature above freezing.
Power outages: Winter storms can bring high winds and heavy snow that can cause power outages. Have backup power sources, such as a generator, on hand to ensure that you have power during a winter storm.
Slips and falls: Ice and snow can make walkways and steps slippery, which can lead to falls and injury. Keep walkways and steps clear of snow and ice to prevent accidents.
Vehicle damage: Winter storms can cause damage to your vehicle, including dents, scratches, and even engine damage. Store your vehicle in a garage or covered area to protect it from winter weather.
To protect your property from winter storm damage, it is important to be prepared. Regularly inspect your home or business for potential damage and make any necessary repairs. If a winter storm is forecasted, take steps to secure your property, such as removing loose objects, reinforcing windows and doors, and stocking up on supplies.
In the event that winter storm damage occurs, it is important to act quickly to prevent further damage. Contact a professional to assess the damage and make any necessary repairs. If you have insurance, make sure to report the damage promptly and follow the steps outlined by your insurance company.
In conclusion, winter storms can bring both beauty and danger. By taking the necessary precautions and being prepared, you can protect your property from winter storm damage.
SERVPRO of Framingham is your premier choice for fire damage and restoration. Our teams are ready to respond 24 hours a week, any day of the year. When you bring us on the job our team of licensed contractors and certified technicians will work collaboratively with you throughout the duration of the project. They will keep you updated on the project's status and ensure that your expectations are met. We will help you to move forward and make it “Like it never even happened” for all of your fire damage.
SERVPRO of Framingham Fire Restoration: The Steps to Take After a Fire
The aftermath of a fire can be overwhelming, but with the right steps and professionals, it's possible to restore your property
A fire can be a devastating experience, leaving destruction in its wake. However, with the right steps and the right professionals, it's possible to restore your home or business to its pre-fire condition. In this article, we'll outline the steps you should take in the aftermath of a fire, from ensuring safety to finding the right restoration team.
Step 1: Ensure Safety
Before entering your property, make sure it's safe to do so. Check with the fire department or your insurance company to see if it's okay to enter. If it is, wear protective gear, such as a mask and gloves, to protect yourself from soot and other harmful substances.
Step 2: Contact Your Insurance Company
As soon as possible, contact your insurance company to report the fire and start the claims process. They will guide you through the next steps and help you determine what is covered under your policy.
Step 3: Contact a Fire Restoration Professional
It's important to work with a professional fire restoration company as soon as possible. These professionals have the experience and equipment needed to properly clean up and restore your property. They can also work with your insurance company to ensure that everything is done correctly and efficiently.
Step 4: Clean Up and Restoration
The fire restoration process can include a variety of tasks, including cleaning up soot, removing damaged items, repairing structural damage, and restoring furniture and other personal items. The professionals you work with will assess the damage and determine the best course of action.
Step 5: Rebuild and Reconstruction
In some cases, the fire may have caused significant damage that requires rebuilding or reconstruction. If this is the case, the restoration professionals can work with you and your insurance company to rebuild your property to its pre-fire condition.
The aftermath of a fire can be overwhelming, but with the right steps and professionals, it's possible to restore your property and get back to your normal life. Contact your insurance company and a fire restoration professional as soon as possible to ensure the best outcome.
SERVPRO of Framingham is your premier choice for fire damage and restoration. Our teams are ready to respond 24 hours a week, any day of the year. When you bring us on the job our team of licensed contractors and certified technicians will work collaboratively with you throughout the duration of the project. They will keep you updated on the project's status and ensure that your expectations are met. We will help you to move forward and make it “Like it never even happened” for all of your fire damage.
Ice storms can be dangerous if precautions are not taken.
Cold weather, especially ice, can create a challenge to property owners. When storm damage occurs, the effects can wreak havoc on your roof, siding, driveways, and walkways. Winter weather in Massachusetts can cause to frozen pipes, leaks, and other property damage. These issues can be severe, and quick action to remedy the damage is essential to protecting your property investment.
SERVPRO of Framingham assists home owners and commercial business owners of the Greater Boston Area deal with winter storms damage. Experience with storm restoration projects have taught us that when property owners plan ahead and create an Emergency Response Plan from SERVPRO, often these steps lessen the effects of the disaster.
There are many types of emergencies that are caused by winter storms. Know some common disasters that can effect your building before a storm arrives:
Flooding— Freezes can damage pipes and cause them to burst, causing water damage and flooded areas that need emergency restoration. Another consideration is flooding from rivers and streams.
Fires— Fires before a winter storm can be caused by unattended fireplaces, improperly cleaned chimneys, or space heaters plugged into overloaded outlets or left too close near flammable objects.
Roof leaks— Roof damage can be caused by ice dams which block drainage pipes. They can also be caused by heavy snow and ice which can break through shingles. High winds from winter storms can also damage your roof, leaving your property exposed to moisture damage, which can cause mold.
What to Do if Your Property Is Damaged
Once a winter storm strikes, your property can be left facing a number of things that need fixing fast. Use these tips to make sure the issue is dealt with in a timely manner to prevent the damage from becoming worse.
Make sure everyone is safe
When your property has experienced damage, it may make the premesis unsafe for people present. Be sure your family, tenants, and/or employees are safe. Move everyone out of any areas that are affected. Do a headcount to make sure you know where everyone is. If the property is unsafe, you may need to arrange for a temporary place for family or tenants to stay. If it is a commercial property, arrange for a place for employees to work while the property is fixed.
Turn off power and water to affected areas
Keeping water running during/after a storm may make flooding from a winter storm worse. Leaving electricity flowing could lead to electrical shocks or a fire that causes even more damage. Know where cutoff valves and breakers are located for electricity and water. Shut off the flow to damaged areas, and call your utilities companies if you need assistance.
Contact your insurance company
Call your insurance agent to begin the process of filing a claim. Leave everything in place, except for what must be moved or secured for safety, until the adjuster comes to document what happened. Take photos of the damage.
Remove property from damaged areas and secure the damaged area
As soon as you have documented the damage, SERVPRO of Framingham can help you move property out of the dangerous area quickly to minimize further damage. Valuables and important papers take first precedence, because they may be impossible to replace. After that, move items that you’d like to save but that can be replaced, such as furniture and electronics. Keep in mind that SERVPRO of Framingham can help restore these items as well.
If you experience damage from a winter storm, contact SERVPRO of Framingham to remedy the damage as soon as possible. Be informed of how to protect your building or home. Keep our phone number in your emergency contacts: (508) 948-9172.
SERVPRO of Framingham Shares How to Deal with Fire and Smoke Damage in a Home or Business
It is not common for fire loss, soot damage, or smoke damage problems to occur in any building.
It is not common for fire loss, soot damage, or smoke damage problems to occur in any building. However, trying to get things back in order is daunting and traumatic.
Things can be gone in a matter of minutes without any preparation for fire loss.
When a firefighter enters a fire in a home or a fire a business property, their first defense is to use lots of water to extinguish the fire. The steps that firefighters take to control the fire will leave back ashes, fire loss, soot damage, smoke damage or air quality problems. You will need to hire a professional to get the remainder of the damage taken care of. SERVPRO of Framingham is trained in a variety of different related clean-up including the latest professional equipment, tools, and procedures.
With our fire cleanup efforts, the business can get back to business as soon as it is physically possible.
Smoke and fire damage situation is different for everyone, each situation requires a unique solution tailored to the specific conditions.
SERVPRO of Framingham is your premier choice for fire damage and restoration. Our teams are ready to respond 24 hours a week, any day of the year. When you bring us on the job our team of licensed contractors and certified technicians will work collaboratively with you throughout the duration of the project. They will keep you updated on the project's status and ensure that your expectations are met. We will help you to move forward and make it “Like it never even happened” for all of your fire damage.
SERVPRO of Framingham Shares The Most Frequently Asked Questions About Fire Damage and Restoration
After the flames have been put out and the smoke has cleared, it’s time to begin restoring your property.
Surviving a fire can be a traumatic and challenge. Safely making it out of your building doesn’t mean you are out of the clear. After the flames have been put out and the smoke has cleared, it’s time to begin restoring your property.
We are sharing some of the top questions when it comes to fire damage.
What Is the First Thing I Should Do After a Fire?: After the firefighters have put out the flames, it is a wise decision to call a fire damage restoration company immediately to begin the repairs.
Can I Inspect My Home After a Fire?: No, you will want stay out of your property following a fire. Homes affected by a blaze are considered unstable and unsafe.
How Do I Secure My Home After a Fire?: The damage restoration company can install board-ups and tarp covers to protect your home.
If the Fire Damage Is Minor, Can I Clean It Myself?: No, this can put you and your loved ones in danger. Exposure to smoke and soot from fires can cause breathing difficulties.
What Should I Do With the Water Used To Extinguish the Fire?: The fire damage repair team can extract the standing water using equipment such as sumps or extraction tools.
Can Smoke Damage Be Removed? Smoke and soot damage on floors, walls, ceilings, and other surfaces might be tough to deal with, but they can be removed.
Do I Need To Move Out During the Restoration Process? Yes, living in a fire-damaged home can be more stressful and unsafe.
How Long Does Fire Damage Restoration Take?: The timeline for fire damage restoration project varies depending on the scope and severity of the damage.
SERVPRO of Framingham is your premier choice for fire damage and restoration. Our teams are ready to respond 24 hours a week, any day of the year. When you bring us on the job our team of licensed contractors and certified technicians will work collaboratively with you throughout the duration of the project. They will keep you updated on the project's status and ensure that your expectations are met. We will help you to move forward and make it “Like it never even happened” for all of your fire damage.
SERVPRO of Framingham Shares Causes of a Flooded Basement.
A flooded basement can occur anytime, especially from weather related events such as heavy rainfall or rapid snowmelt to older homes.
One of our recent projects was a flood in a local home. The SERVPRO of Framingham crews quickly restored their home.
A flooded basement can occur anytime, especially from weather related events such as heavy rainfall or rapid snowmelt to older homes.
Below are other causes of basement flooding:
Foundation cracks
Broken basement windows
Poor-draining window wells
Sewer system problems
Sump pump problems
Improperly sealed basement walls
House located at the bottom of a slope
Weeping tile blockage
Overflowing rain gutters
Improper downspout locations
Appliance leaks
Overflowing toilet or bathtub
Drainage system failure
Water heater failure
Proper home maintenance can prevent the problems and could help save you in future. Make sure to check rain gutters and remove all debris, and seal cracks in your foundation.
SERVPRO of Framingham is your premier choice for water damage and restoration. Our teams are ready to respond 24 hours a week, any day of the year. When you bring us on the job our team of licensed contractors and certified technicians will work collaboratively with you throughout the duration of the project. They will keep you updated on the project's status and ensure that your expectations are met. We will help you to move forward and make it “Like it never even happened” for all of your water damage.
Taking these steps before leaving your home or building can be the difference between disaster or not
Before traveling for the holidays, or any time, it is incredibly important to prepare your house. Taking these simple steps can prevent damage from occurring to your home while you are away.
Turn off the main water supply line: The main water supply controls all of the water in the house and is one of the best protections against needing to repair water damage and prevent flooding. Turning off the water supply can help prevent pipes from bursting while you’re away!
Test your Sump Pump: In case there is an emergency, make sure the sump pump is working before leaving town.
Leave the thermostat tuned on: Make sure your thermostat is set no lower than 60 degrees F to prevent pipes from freezing.
Winterize your drainage system: Drain the water out of the toilet and add nontoxic antifreeze. Also, pour one-half cup of anti-freeze down the bathroom sinks, as well as down the bath tub.
Unplug your electronics: Unplug all electronics before leaving your home to save money as well as to prevent any damage from a power surge.
While you can prevent damage, it is difficult to ensure it will not happen. If anything does occur this holiday season, call SERVPRO of Framingham at (508) 370-4400 to get the damage resolved right away.
SERVPRO of Framingham Shares Frozen Pipe Information
Winter months call for frozen pipes. It is important to know and understand what this means to prevent damage to your building.
Winter months call for frozen pipes. It is important to know and understand what this means to prevent damage to your building.
Pipes will eventually unfreeze on their own naturally. However, this takes time and could actually cause more damage because it could eventually lead to the pipe bursting.
Here is what you should do if you suspect you have frozen pipes.
Check with a neighbor to see if they’re experiencing frozen pipes too. If they have running water, it’s likely your pipes have frozen.
Turn off the water immediately using the main shut off valve.
Open the faucet for water to flow through the pipe once the area is melted.
Apply heat around the pipe using a hair dryer. Keep all heat sources away from flammable materials.
Once pipes are thawed, you can turn the water back on and check all joints for leaks.
Check all pipes and joints for leaks or cracks.
If there are still issues, do not wait to address them, and contact an experienced water restoration company.
If you are unsure about frozen pipes, make sure to call for assistance. We are open 24/7 and are happy to assist. SERVPRO of Framingham is your premier choice for water damage and restoration. Our teams are ready to respond 24 hours a week, any day of the year. When you bring us on the job our team of licensed contractors and certified technicians will work collaboratively with you throughout the duration of the project. They will keep you updated on the project's status and ensure that your expectations are met. We will help you to move forward and make it “Like it never even happened” for all of your water damage.
With Christmas, there can be more fires than normal. Christmas lights make the holiday season bright; we decorate trees and homes with lights.
It is everyone’s favorite time of the year! With Christmas, there can be more fires than normal. Christmas lights make the holiday season bright; we decorate trees and homes with lights.
These decorations can have a risk though and electrocution is possible. With proper preparation and safe practices, you can avoid those dangerous situations while decorating.
Here are the safety tips you need to know.
A missing or broken bulb can lead to shocks or even fires.
Replace any broken bulbs before you string up your home or tree.
If you decorate your home's exterior, make sure to use a ladder that isn’t metal.
Make sure to use lights that are labeled as indoors for your indoor lights and ones labeled outdoors for your outdoor lights.
Check to make sure your lights are labeled as waterproof, especially outdoors.
Always use an extension cord that is rated for outdoor use.
Keep your cords from sitting on the ground.
Make sure your light cord and your extension cord stay out of puddles or snow.
Keep your light strands off the ground.
Don't make your lights a year-long attraction. Lights, including smart lights, should not be used for long terms.
Leave cords out of doors and windows. The cord could become pinched. This can ruin the insulation around the wires and lead to a shock.
Should you experience a fire, call 911 immediately and call your local fire restoration company.
SERVPRO of Framingham is your premier choice for fire damage and restoration. Our teams are ready to respond 24 hours a week, any day of the year. When you bring us on the job our team of licensed contractors and certified technicians will work collaboratively with you throughout the duration of the project. They will keep you updated on the project's status and ensure that your expectations are met. We will help you to move forward and make it “Like it never even happened” for all of your fire damages.
SERVPRO of Framingham Is The Choice For Rebuilding Homes and Businesses
With the combined talent and experience of carpenters, electricians, and fire restoration services, homes can be successfully rebuilt.
A fire in a building is one of the most devastating things anyone faces. It can be a stressful time, to figure out the next steps since there is more than likely damage from a fire.
If you ever find yourself in this situation, take a deep breath and know it will be okay.
We provide fire restoration services in Framingham MA every day. We know it is a huge project, but it’s easier to manage when you know what to expect.
Whenever there is a fire, it is important to hire licensed professionals.
Here are steps to rebuilding a fire-damaged house.
Call your insurance company: It’s important to set the claims process in motion as soon as possible. You can ask for a preferred restoration company they have, or hire us.
Asses your building damage: Your restoration contractor can recommend a structural engineer to make sure it is safe to begin work.
Have the property secured: secure all but one entryway, and board up broken windows.
Address structural repairs: You will want experienced and professional carpenters to take care of heavy repairs.
Inspect and repair electricity: the fire might not have destroyed your entire home, but the electrical system must be inspected and repaired by a licensed electrician.
Address problems to the fire damage: Your restoration contractor can find any additional problems such as mold growth in damp sheetrock, smoke stains and soot residue, and more.
Clean up by room: Fire restoration can take several months: The company will replace ruined sheetrock, restore fire-damaged floors and even help you salvage furnishings. It is important to not rush the process
Document everything: The cost to rebuild after a fire can be very expensive. Make sure to document everything for yourself and your insurance company.
With the combined talent and experience of carpenters, electricians, and fire restoration services, homes can be successfully rebuilt.
SERVPRO of Framingham is your premier choice for fire damage and restoration. Our teams are ready to respond 24 hours a week, any day of the year. When you bring us on the job our team of licensed contractors and certified technicians will work collaboratively with you throughout the duration of the project. They will keep you updated on the project's status and ensure that your expectations are met. We will help you to move forward and make it “Like it never even happened” for all of your fire damages.
Thanksgiving Day is an annual national holiday in the United States. This is a day to celebrate the harvest and other blessings of the past year.
Thanksgiving Day is an annual national holiday in the United States. This is a day to celebrate the harvest and other blessings of the past year. Americans generally believe that their Thanksgiving is modeled on a 1621 harvest feast shared by the English colonists (Pilgrims) of Plymouth and the Wampanoag people. It is a time for gathering with loved ones. However, oftentimes safety can be a concern when cooking.
Here are the top safety tips:
Stay in the kitchen when you are cooking
Stay at home when cooking your turkey. Also, check on it frequently.
Keep children away from the stove.
Make sure kids stay away from hot food. The steam from vegetables, gravy, etc could cause serious burns.
Keep knives out of the reach of children.
Keep matches and lighters out of the reach of children.
Never leave children alone in a room with a lit candle.
Keep the floor clear so you don’t trip.
Make sure your smoke alarms are working.
Above all else, Happy Thanksgiving from all of us at SERVPRO of Framingham.
SERVPRO of Framingham is your premier choice for restoration and rebuilding. Our teams are ready to respond 24 hours a week, any day of the year. When you bring us on the job our team of licensed contractors and certified technicians will work collaboratively with you throughout the duration of the project. They will keep you up to date on the status of the project and make sure that your expectations are met. We will help you to move forward and make it “Like it never even happened” for all of your fire damages.
SERVPRO of Framingham Helps Businesses Prepare For Flooding.
Flooding can happen anywhere. It is critical that businesses are prepared for natural disasters.
Flooding can happen anywhere. It is critical that businesses are prepared for natural disasters. It is recommended to have flood insurance and tools that mitigate total loss in emergency situations.
According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), flooding occurs in over 90 percent of a, averaging 17 billion dollars of damage each year.
Here are some helpful tips:
Analyze flood maps: FEMA is the most reliable resource for this. They provide flood maps that are updated regularly.
Conduct risk analysis: Storms can completely destroy a given area. FEMA states that as little as one inch of flood water can cause $25,000 in damage. This can cause the company operations issues for an unforeseen amount of time.
Generate a disaster plan: Having a disaster plan is a great way to maintain calmness. Train your employees with steps in your disaster plan.
Obtain commercial flood insurance: You will want to establish your risk analysis. This will give you an idea of what type of commercial flood insurance to purchase.
Protect business information: When flooding does occur, it can be hard to salvage equipment and paperwork.
Purchase flood boards: If you are in a flood-prone area or at risk of flooding you will want to consider this.
Raise electrical sockets, fuse boxes, and wiring: Moving electrical wiring to a safe height is simple.
Install non-return valves: Businesses should consider the installation of non-return valves for drains. This can be an added layer of protection during flooding.
SERVPRO of Framingham is your premier choice for restoration and rebuilding. Our teams are ready to respond 24 hours a week, any day of the year. When you bring us on the job our team of licensed contractors and certified technicians will work collaboratively with you throughout the duration of the project. They will keep you up to date on the status of the project and make sure that your expectations are met. We will help you to move forward and make it “Like it never even happened” for all of your fire damages.
SERVPRO of Framingham Helps Prepare For Winter Storms
Winter storms can create a higher risk of car accidents, carbon monoxide poisoning, and more.
Snowstorms are attributed to winter seasons. Winter storms can create a higher risk of car accidents, carbon monoxide poisoning, and more.
They can also create blizzard conditions, freezing rain, snow, ice, extreme cold, and high winds. Winter storms can last for several days which can cut off heat, and cause power outages.
It is important to know what to do before the winter weather arrives.
Here are some quick winter storm tips:
Install caulking and weather stripping around doors and windows.
Insulate pipes to reduce freezing.
Install and test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors.
Pay attention to weather reports and warnings.
Sign up for your community’s warning system such as Emergency Alert System (EAS) and NOAA Weather Radio.
Gather supplies or restock your disaster supply kits.
Remember the needs of your pets.
Have extra batteries for radios, flashlights, and cellphones.
Create an emergency supply kit for your vehicle. Include jumper cables, sand, a flashlight (hand-crank or battery-operated), a first aid kit, etc.
If you must go outside, dress in layers.
Winter storms are not fun, but it is mother nature and we can not prevent it. The best thing to do is be prepared for a storm.
SERVPRO of Framingham is your premier choice for restoration and rebuilding. Our teams are ready to respond 24 hours a week, any day of the year. When you bring us on the job our team of licensed contractors and certified technicians will work collaboratively with you throughout the duration of the project. They will keep you up to date on the status of the project and make sure that your expectations are met. We will help you to move forward and make it “Like it never even happened” for all of your fire damages.
SERVPRO of Framingham Recognizes Fire Prevention Week
It is important for everyone to plan and practice a home fire escape because we never know! It is important everyone knows what to do.
On October 9th, 1911 over 250 people died and buildings were destroyed by a fire. In 1922, President Harding proclaimed National Fire Prevention Week.
Fire safety should be practiced every day. Here are some tips to help you:
Install and maintain smoke detectors on every level of your home.
Have a fire escape plan and practice it with your family.
Keep matches and lighters out of the hands of children.
Have home heating systems and chimneys inspected?
It is important for everyone to plan and practice a home fire escape because we never know! It is important everyone knows what to do when the smoke alarm sounds.
Have a plan for everyone in the home, including children, older adults, and people with disabilities. Smoke alarms sense smoke well before you can, alerting you to danger, this is why it is important to have one in every bedroom.
SERVPRO of Framingham is your premier choice for restoration and rebuilding. Our teams are ready to respond 24 hours a week, any day of the year. When you bring us on the job our team of licensed contractors and certified technicians will work collaboratively with you throughout the duration of the project. They will keep you up to date on the status of the project and make sure that your expectations are met. We will help you to move forward and make it “Like it never even happened” for all of your fire damages.
SERVPRO of Framingham Explains Fire Prevention Day
Did you know National Fire Prevention Day is on October 9th? It is important to create awareness of fires and know how to participate.
Did you know National Fire Prevention Day is on October 9th? On October 8, 1871, Mrs. O’Leary was in her barn, milking her cow. The cow kicked over a lamp, which started the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. When it was over, more than 300 people were killed, 100,000 people were left homeless, and over 17,000 structures were destroyed. This and other major fires caused a movement to proclaim this holiday. (nfpa.org)
It is important to create awareness of fires and know how to participate because we never know when a fire can happen.
Fire departments around the country hold sessions and seminars to teach fire prevention and safety. Encourage your loved ones to attend and get a refresh.
Schools have fire drills and hold lessons on fire prevention. Encourage your children to ask questions and talk it over with them.
Families conduct an EDITH exercise (Exit Drills In The Home). If you need assistance with this, reach out to your local fire department.
Businesses should conduct fire drills. Set up a plan for who will be in charge of what and have an exit plan.
Learn more about fires both nationally and locally.
Fires are never something that anyone anticipates happening, but they happen more often than not. No one can be fully ready for this, but we can create awareness and have plans in place should it happen.
SERVPRO of Framingham is your premier choice for restoration and rebuilding. Our teams are ready to respond 24 hours a week, any day of the year. When you bring us on the job our team of licensed contractors and certified technicians will work collaboratively with you throughout the duration of the project. They will keep you up to date on the status of the project and make sure that your expectations are met. We will help you to move forward and make it “Like it never even happened” for all of your fire damages.
Now that fall is here, it is a good idea for everyone in your home to refresh their fall fire safety tips.
Now that fall is here, it is a good idea for everyone in your home to refresh their fall fire safety tips.
These fire tips are especially important for children and families.
Check Smoke Detectors & Fire Extinguishers.
Change batteries in smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors.
Verify that smoke detectors are working.
Make sure that there are smoke detectors in your home.
Make sure everyone knows how to use a fire extinguisher.
Make Sure All Heating Sources Work Properly
Verify that everything you need to keep your home warm throughout fall and winter is working.
Make sure that any space heaters are surrounded by at least three feet of empty space.
Never place clothing or any other objects on a space heater.
Do not place space heaters near furniture or drapery.
If you aren’t sure about any of these tips, reach out to a local firefighter, they will be able to assist you and answer any questions. Help prevent a fire as best as you possibly can.
SERVPRO Framingham is your premier choice for restoration and rebuilding. Our teams are ready to respond 24 hours a week, any day of the year. When you bring us on the job our team of licensed contractors and certified technicians will work collaboratively with you throughout the duration of the project. They will keep you up to date on the status of the project and make sure that your expectations are met. We will help you to move forward and make it “Like it never even happened” for all of your storm damage.
Kids love this holiday, and for a great reason. However, safety is important for everyone. Below are a few tips for those who will be pedestrians.
Did you know that Halloween is a dangerous day? More than twice as many children are killed in pedestrian-car crashes between the hours of 4 and 10 PM. This is simply because drivers not being aware of their surroundings. (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration).
Kids love this holiday, and for a great reason. However, safety is important for everyone. Below are a few tips for those who will be pedestrians and drivers:
Wear bright clothes. If your costume is dark, carry lighted lanterns, and use reflectors.
Hold onto your child’s hand. They might get excited and want to run across the street.
Always try to cross crosswalks and be alert. Drivers might not pay attention.
Look every which way before you do cross the street.
Do not jaywalk. Wait for the car to the first pass where you want to cross.
All drivers should stay off their cell phones, and watch the intersections, and the street.
If you are partying instead of trick or treating, stay sober or find another ride home.
Wait behind other vehicles that are pulled over, because they may be dropping off children.
Warn children that they are not to get into the car of anyone they do not know.
Make sure to have fun!
Above all else, have fun and stay safe. After all, this holiday is met to be fun for free candy.
SERVPRO of Framingham is your premier choice for restoration and rebuilding. Our teams are ready to respond 24 hours a week, any day of the year. When you bring us on the job our team of licensed contractors and certified technicians will work collaboratively with you throughout the duration of the project. They will keep you up to date on the status of the project and make sure that your expectations are met. We will help you to move forward and make it “Like it never even happened” for all of your residential damage.
SERVPRO of Framingham Explains How To Burn Leaves Safely
Many people like to burn leaves or throw trash onto piles, such as household garbage, construction debris, or old papers.
Falling leaves are often the first signs of the seasonal shift and yardwork. As the piles of raked leaves build up, you’re faced with how to dispose of them!
Many people like to burn leaves or throw trash onto piles, such as household garbage, construction debris, or old papers. However, this can actually cause more damage than good.
Burning materials such as yard waste, grass clippings, and leaves may be permissible depending on your town’s ordinances. If you decide to burn leaves, do not use flammable liquids to ignite the debris. Make sure to keep an eye on the fire at all times and be prepared to extinguish it at any moment. Safety is always the number one concern.
There are plenty of safe alternatives for you to do instead of burning leaves such as
Recycling. You can recycle tree limbs, grass clippings, and leaves.
Composted. You can also compost items into mulch or chipped them into landscaping material.
Scheduling a pickup. Many cities and towns provide a curbside collection of bagged leaves. Check with your local public works department.
Calling a yard waste or junk removal service. They will take the debris to the dump or recycling center.
There are plenty of ways to get rid of your leaves this fall, it just depends on what works best for you. Remember safety first; prevent a fire if you are able to.
SERVPRO of Framingham is your premier choice for restoration and rebuilding. Our teams are ready to respond 24 hours a week, any day of the year. When you bring us on the job our team of licensed contractors and certified technicians will work collaboratively with you throughout the duration of the project. They will keep you up to date on the status of the project and make sure that your expectations are met. We will help you to move forward and make it “Like it never even happened” for all of your damages.
Cooking and heating are the leading causes of home fires during the winter months. Here are some quick and easy tips to help prevent a fire.
Cooking and heating are the leading causes of home fires during the winter months. Here are some quick and easy tips to help prevent a fire in and around your building.
Be alert when cooking; if you are sleepy or have consumed alcohol, don’t use the oven or stovetop
Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, grilling, boiling, or broiling food
When simmering, baking, or roasting, check the food regularly, remain in the kitchen while cooking, and use a timer
Keep anything that can catch fire away from your stovetop
Keep all flammables, like paper, clothing, bedding, drapes, or rugs, at least 3 feet from a space heater, stove, or fireplace
Never leave portable heaters and fireplaces unattended; turn off heaters and make sure fireplace embers are extinguished before leaving the room
If you must use a space heater, place it on a level, nonflammable surface, like ceramic tile, not on a rug or carpet
Keep children and pets away from space heaters
Institute a “no smoking” policy in the hous
Check all cords and replace any that are frayed or have bare wires
Switch to flameless candles
Smoke alarms are a key part of a home fire escape plan providing early warning to reduce your risk of dying in a fire.
Use special alarms with strobe lights and bed shakers for people who are hard of hearing or deaf
Replace smoke alarms that are 10 or more years old
Make an Escape Plan
Everyone needs to know your family's escape plan. The National Fire Protection Association indicates that 71% of Americans have a home fire escape plan but only 47% have practiced it. Practice getting out with eyes closed, crawling low to the floor, and keeping your mouth covered
Practice closing doors behind you
Always put your safety first; if you are not confident in your ability to use a fire extinguisher, get out and call 9-1-1.
SERVPRO of Framingham is your premier choice for restoration and rebuilding. Our teams are ready to respond 24 hours a week, any day of the year. When you bring us on the job our team of licensed contractors and certified technicians will work collaboratively with you throughout the duration of the project. They will keep you up to date on the status of the project and make sure that your expectations are met. We will help you to move forward and make it “Like it never even happened” for all of your storm damage.
September is storm season and it is important to know what you can do in case of a storm.
September is storm season and it is important to know what you can do incase of a storm. If a tornado warning is out for your county, taking shelter is critical.
Being completely underground is the best place to be in a tornado. Just make sure the door is securely fastened.
If the entrance to your storm cellar is outside, make sure to allow plenty of time to get to the shelter, otherwise you may be exposed to wind, hail, rain, lightning and maybe even flying debris.
A basement is also a good shelter. If your basement is not underground, or it has outside doors or windows, stay as far away from them as possible.
Avoid seeking shelter underneath heavy objects. Make sure to use coverings such as pillows, blankets, sleeping bags, and coats, etc to shield your head and body.
If you don't have an underground shelter, you need to find a location that is:
As close to the ground as possible
As far inside the building as possible
Away from doors, windows and outside walls
In as small a room as possible
SERVPRO of Framingham is your premier choice for restoration and rebuild. Our teams are ready to respond 24 hours a week, any day of the year. When you bring us on the job our team of licensed contractors and certified technicians will work collaboratively with you throughout the duration of the project. They will keep you up to date on the status of the project and make sure that your expectations are met. We will help you to move forward and make it “Like it never even happened” for all of your storm damage.
SERVPRO of Framingham Shares What To Do If You Have a Tornado Warning
Fall months can call for serve weather, if you have a tornado warning, shelter is critical for your safety.
Fall months can call for serve weather, if you have a tornado warning, shelter is critical for your safety. Having a safe room that is away from any doors, windows, or outside walls can be good.
If you don't have a safe room or basement, you should look around your home to determine the best place.
Here are Some Ideas:
Bathrooms might be a good shelter, as long as they are not along an outside wall and have no windows. If your bathroom has windows and is along an outside wall, it is not the best shelter.
Closets are another option. The closet should be as deep inside the building as possible, with no outside walls, doors, or windows.
A hallway is another great option. Be sure to shut all doors, and to create as many barriers as possible. A hallway should as be far inside the building as possible and should not have any openings to the outside.
SERVPRO of Framingham is your premier choice for restoration and rebuilding. Our teams are ready to respond 24 hours a week, any day of the year. When you bring us on the job our team of licensed contractors and certified technicians will work collaboratively with you throughout the duration of the project. They will keep you up to date on the status of the project and make sure that your expectations are met. We will help you to move forward and make it “Like it never even happened” for all of your storm damage.
Each September is recognized as National Preparedness Month. It was created to promote family and community disaster planning now.
Each September is recognized as National Preparedness Month. It was created to promote family and community disaster planning now, but also in the future.
Here are some tips to help plan:
You need an emergency plan! Planning for emergencies is essential, as it can happen to anyone at any time. If you already have a written emergency it might be a good time to review it.
Do have an emergency supply kit? If your emergency supply kit is already stocked, make sure that the items are not expired. For example, are the batteries still working? Also, make sure to know where the kit is being stored.
You should know how to prepare for disasters. Make sure to cut back trees and shrubs that are too close to your house. Also, make sure that your insurance is up to date. Subscribe to your city or county’s emergency alerts.
Make sure that those around you are prepared. Include your children in your preparedness drills. Make sure to have those around you involved in emergency plans and what to do if you need to evacuate or shelter in place.
SERVPRO of Framingham is your premier choice for restoration and rebuilding. Our teams are ready to respond 24 hours a week, any day of the year. When you bring us on the job our team of licensed contractors and certified technicians will work collaboratively with you throughout the duration of the project. They will keep you up to date on the status of the project and make sure that your expectations are met. We will help you to move forward and make it “Like it never even happened” for all of your storm damage.
If you haven't taken the time to think about how disasters could affect you, then it is time to become educated to help save you and your family.
We want everyone to be prepared in case of a disaster, as best as they can be. If you haven't taken the time to think about how disasters could affect you, then it is time to become educated to help save you and your family.
Make sure you are always informed. You can receive important lifesaving alerts no matter where you are from your city.
You can also receive wireless emergency alerts such as NOAA Weather Radio. Some weather & safety information can also be relayed through social media.
Know which natural disasters can occur in your area and how to prepare and stay safe.
Make sure you know where the nearest shelters are. You might also want to know evacuation routes.
It is important to make a family emergency plan that can be put into action.
Find opportunities to support community preparedness.
SERVPRO of Framingham is your premier choice for restoration and rebuilding. Our teams are ready to respond 24 hours a week, any day of the year. When you bring us on the job our team of licensed contractors and certified technicians will work collaboratively with you throughout the duration of the project. They will keep you up to date on the status of the project and make sure that your expectations are met. We will help you to move forward and make it “Like it never even happened” for all of your storm damage.
National Preparedness Month encourages and reminds people to be prepared for disasters or emergencies in their communities.
National Preparedness Month encourages and reminds people to be prepared for disasters or emergencies in their communities.
This is the time to find ways to help others understand more about preparing for disasters and reducing risks to the environment.
Generator: Know ahead of time where you would run a generator. Generator exhaust is not good for you to inhale. Make sure to always put generators outside well away from doors, windows, and vents. Generators should never be used inside a home.
Water: If drinking water is from a private well, know your contacts for inspecting the safety of your drinking water after a flood.
Septic system: Make sure to know whom to call to have it inspected after a flood.
Communities: Plan ahead for large amounts of disaster debris from damaged or destroyed buildings, supplies, trees or other green waste, or other materials.
SERVPRO of Framingham is your premier choice for restoration and rebuild. Our teams are ready to respond 24 hours a week, any day of the year. When you bring us on the job our team of licensed contractors and certified technicians will work collaboratively with you throughout the duration of the project. They will keep you up to date on the status of the project and make sure that your expectations are met. We will help you to move forward and make it “Like it never even happened” for all of your storm damage.
There's nothing quite as cozy as a fire, as long as you understand the dangers that can come of it.
When the weather turns cold most people spend more time inside their homes. This is simply because people are using fireplaces, furnaces, and heaters to keep warm. There's nothing quite as cozy as a fire, as long as you understand the dangers that can come of it.
Here are some tips to help prevent fires:
Service Your Furnace: Before the cold winter weather sets in, be sure to call your heating and cooling company to service your furnace. It is good to have an inspection to make sure everything is in working order and there are no leaks.
Use Fireplaces Safely: Keep fire in its proper place by using a fireplace screen. This will keep sparks from flying out of the fireplace. Never leave a burning fire unattended.
Use Caution with Space Heaters: A space heater can be an effective way to warm up a chilly room. Your space heater may require venting, so make sure you have vented it to the outdoors. There should be at least three feet of empty area around space heaters.
Reconsider Leaf Burning: Burning leaves produces dangerous and cancer-causing chemicals. Homeowners should avoid disposing of leaves this way.
Exercise Candle Caution: Candles are a great way to give a room some light, and also smell. They can also cause fires. Never leave candles burning unattended.
Change Smoke Alarm Batteries: It is wise to change the batteries in your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors when you turn back your clocks for Daylight Saving Time.
Safety Tips for Fall Driving: There's nothing more beautiful than a fall drive, but weather can cause dangerous roads.
Fall is a great time for many people to enjoy the beautiful crisp weather, but along with that comes several dangers especially fires.
SERVPRO of Framingham is your premier choice for restoration and rebuilding. Our teams are ready to respond 24 hours a week, any day of the year. When you bring us on the job our team of licensed contractors and certified technicians will work collaboratively with you throughout the duration of the project. They will keep you up to date on the status of the project and make sure that your expectations are met. We will help you to move forward and make it “Like it never even happened” for all of your fire damages.
Here are some home maintenance ideas that will keep your home running in peak condition all winter long.
Fall is just around the corner. It is time to get your house in shape for the cooler months ahead. Here are some home maintenance ideas that will keep your home running in peak condition all winter long.
Exterior Maintenance
You will want to check foundation for cracks and caulk such as where pipes or wires enter the house. Ensuring that you check the outside structure combined will save you money, and damages, in the long run.
Make sure you have storm windows and doors and remove screens.
Inspect exterior walls to see if any paint is peeling or blistering on the house or outbuildings. Peeling paint is a sign that the existing paint film is failing. If this is not treated, the siding itself will deteriorate, which leads to expensive repairs.
Make sure the roof is in good shape, but also inspect for missing and loose shingles. If not taken care of, damage can happen with deterioration to insulation, wood and drywall.
Interior Maintenance
Proper sealing and insulation can save up to 20% on costs. Air from windows and doors are easy to find, make sure to apply weather stripping and caulk to areas that have air venting issues.
Get your woodstove and fireplace in working order. Gary Webster, Creative Director of Travis Industries, suggests that you examine your wood stove or fireplace insert’s door gasket for a tight seal. Also clean and inspect the glass door for cracks and have the chimney cleaned by a licensed chimney sweep. “A clogged chimney poses the risk of a chimney fire, which can be ignited by burning creosote—a combination of wood tar, organic vapors and moisture buildup,” says Webster.
Change the direction of your ceiling fan to create an upward draft that redistributes warm air from the ceiling.
Check basement windows for drafts, loose frames or cracked panes.
Vacuum internal parts of air conditioners. Remove units from windows or wrap outside box with an approved tarp or plastic air conditioner cover in order to prevent rusting of vital parts.
Clean your humidifiers regularly during the heating season. Bacteria and spores can develop in a dirty water tank resulting in unclean moisture misting out into your ro
SERVPRO of Framingham is your premier choice for restoration and rebuild. Our teams are ready to respond 24 hours a week, any day of the year. When you bring us on the job our team of licensed contractors and certified technicians will work collaboratively with you throughout the duration of the project. They will keep you up to date on the status of the project and make sure that your expectations are met. We will help you to move forward and make it “Like it never even happened” for all of your storm damage.
SERVPRO of Framingham Shares How to Burn a Candle Safely
Fire safety is always important. You can prevent a candle fire with these simple tips.
Many people enjoy having candles lit in their homes, especially during the Fall months. However, it is important to know candle safety so that you can enjoy it without leading to a fire.
Before burning, trim the wick to ¼ inch because long or crooked wicks can cause uneven burning.
Use a candleholder designed for candle use. It should be heat resistant, sturdy, and large enough to contain drips.
Burn candles in a well-ventilated room.
When lighting a candle, use a long-reach lighter, and keep your hair and loose clothing out of sight.
Never leave a candle unattended.
Never burn a candle on or near anything that can catch fire.
Keep burning candles away from furniture, drapes, bedding, carpets, etc.
Keep candles out of the reach of children and pets.
Never touch or move a candle while it is burning.
Place burning candles at least three inches apart from one another.
Extinguish a candle if the flame becomes too high.
Never use a candle as a night light or while you may fall asleep.
Use a candle snuffer to extinguish a candle; it will prevent hot wax from splattering.
Never use water to extinguish a candle; this can cause the wax to splatter.
Make sure the candle is completely out before leaving the room.
Fire safety is always important. You can prevent a candle fire with these simple tips.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with commercial damage. “Like it never even happened.”
SERVPRO of Framingham Shares What You Should Do to Your Home Before Fall Starts
There are important preparations that come with being a homeowner. Consider everything you need to know before your house transitions.
It would be amazing if all you needed to prep your home for fall was hang a wreath and decorate cute pumpkin decor. There are important preparations that come with being a homeowner. Consider everything you need to know before your house transitions to cool fall nights.
Clean your gutters: If they're clogged, you can end up with a flooded interior and damaged exterior.
Check for drafts: Weatherstripping is simple and probably the most cost-effective way to keep heating costs down
Drain your outdoor faucets: Drain and disconnect all garden hoses from outside to prevent any water freezing.
Bring your outdoor furniture in: If you want to get another summer season out of it you should store it in a garage or shed.
Change your filters: If your filters are clogged, it's harder to keep your home at the temperature you want it to be. Clean these filters monthly.
Change your batteries: Once a year you should be checking to make sure all smoke detectors and carbon monoxide devices are working.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with commercial damage. “Like it never even happened.”
SERVPRO of Framingham Shares What You Should Do to Your Home Before Fall Starts
There are important preparations that come with being a homeowner. Consider everything you need to know before your house transitions.
It would be amazing if all you needed to prep your home for fall was hang a wreath and decorate cute pumpkin decor. There are important preparations that come with being a homeowner. Consider everything you need to know before your house transitions to cool fall nights.
Clean your gutters: If they're clogged, you can end up with a flooded interior and damaged exterior.
Check for drafts: Weatherstripping is simple and probably the most cost-effective way to keep heating costs down
Drain your outdoor faucets: Drain and disconnect all garden hoses from outside to prevent any water freezing.
Bring your outdoor furniture in: If you want to get another summer season out of it you should store it in a garage or shed.
Change your filters: If your filters are clogged, it's harder to keep your home at the temperature you want it to be. Clean these filters monthly.
Change your batteries: Once a year you should be checking to make sure all smoke detectors and carbon monoxide devices are working.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with commercial damage. “Like it never even happened.”
A smoke detector is one of the most important devices in your house. It can save your life in an emergency.
A smoke detector is one of those things you take for granted. More than likely, you don’t even know it’s there. Unless it’s sounding an alarm or making that annoying chirping noise telling you it’s time to replace the battery.
A smoke detector is one of the most important devices in your house. It can save your life in an emergency. Find out what you need to know about checking your smoke detectors.
You should check your smoke detectors monthly or at least twice a year.
Most smoke detectors are powered by 9-volt batteries. To check these remove the plastic cap from the detector, replace the battery and press the test button.
Most smoke detectors last a maximum of 10 years. When you do you change your batteries, remove your units from the ceiling and check for a date stamped on the back.
Three out of five home fire deaths result from fires in properties without working smoke alarms.
Furthermore, failing to check your smoke alarms regularly increases the likelihood that they’ll fail if a fire erupts.
Maintaining smoke alarms takes minutes, and it’s worth it for the peace of mind it provides.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with commercial damage. “Like it never even happened.”
Grill fires can start easily and spread quickly. Learn how you can help keep your home and family safe with these tips.
Grilling is a popular way to enjoy the nice summer weather. Grill fires can start easily and spread quickly. Learn how you can help keep your home and family safe with these tips.
Only use grills outside: It may be tempting to set up your grill inside of your open garage grills are strictly designed for outdoor use where there is plenty of ventilation.
Place your grill away from your home: You should avoid placing your grill outside the back door, or back deck because it can pose a potential fire hazard.
Make sure your grill is located on a flat surface: Grills that are placed on uneven surfaces can tip over easily and cause a fire.
Check your grill for leaks: A leak in the gas lines can cause propane to build up inside when the lid is closed. Check the gas lines to make sure that they are free of leaks.
Always clean your grill after use: Using your grill often causes grease to build up. If not cleaned, the build-up can then act as fuel and catch fire.
Never leave your barbecue grill unattended while in use: Barbecues use high heat and open flames to cook food. When a grill is left unattended it can become a safety and fire hazard.
Keep a spray bottle on hand: It’s common for grills to flare up as fat drips, and this can cause a section of the grill to remain on fire.
Always have a fire extinguisher close by It is simple to use, just point and spray to extinguish the fire.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with commercial damage. “Like it never even happened.”
SERVPRO of Framingham Shares Heat Advisory Safety.
Stay hydrated, and cool, during the month of August! Make sure you enjoy summer as best as you can.
It is important to stay hydrated during the month of August since it is known as an extreme heat month. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Hot weather causes you to sweat, and you will need to replenish the lost fluids.
Here are some tips for you to stay cool during the summer months:
Never leave children or pets in hot vehicles.
Stay inside during the hottest part of the day (10 A.M to 4 P.M.)
When you’re outdoors, make sure to stay out of direct sunlight.
Set your air conditioners to a lower temperature.
Use curtains or blinds to keep direct sunlight out.
If you feel overheated, cool off with wet washcloths on your wrists and neck. Carry a cooling facial mist with you.
Stay hydrated, and cool, during the month of August! Make sure you enjoy summer as best as you can.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with commercial damage. “Like it never even happened.”
Enjoying a campfire is one of the most enjoyable parts of camping. A campfire that is not properly built, maintained and extinguished can cause damage
Enjoying a campfire is one of the most enjoyable parts of camping. A campfire that is not properly built, maintained, and extinguished can quickly become a hazard. It's important to understand how to safely enjoy your campfire.
Know the rules: Before you strike a match, make sure you know the fire regulations of the campground or wilderness area.
Use the pit: Most campgrounds provide a fire pit to build a campfire. If a pit is provided, this is the only place you should build a campfire. If not, dig a fire pit in an open area away from overhanging branches and power lines.
Build a safe campfire: Start the fire with dried leaves or grass that will easily catch fire. Next, add small twigs and sticks that are less than an inch. As the fire builds, add the largest pieces of wood to the fire. This keeps the fire burning for a longer period of time.
Keep in mind that your fire does not have to be roaring. In fact, a small fire surrounded by rocks will do the job. Always make sure to take caution whenever you are creating a fire.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with commercial damage. “Like it never even happened.”
SERVPRO of Framingham is Hiring A Production Technician
SERVPRO of Framingham is Hiring A Production Technician
Conveniently located right off Rt 495 in Hopkinton, SERVPRO of Framingham offers exciting employment opportunities. When you arrive at our office, you will feel the positive energy as you are enthusiastically greeted by our office dog, Maggie. She will put a smile on your face as soon as you enter!
SERVPRO of Framingham is committed to employee development, providing multiple opportunities for resource training. You will be encouraged to stay current and expand your knowledge and skills in your particular area of employment. We have very clear and stated goals and they don’t just sit in a word document, they are prominent for all to see and remember, painted in bright gold on our conference walls! Our traineeship office, located in Lawrence, frequently holds seminars and presentations on the latest communications from SERVPRO corporate.
In addition, our employees enjoy the convenient amenities just steps from our office. Within a block, you have Starbucks, "Dunkins", local delis, convenience stores and gas stations as well as a very popular restaurants great for meeting up with friends after work. Inquire today and we will look forward to talking to you about potential employment.
We are hiring for a Production Technician
Primary Role: Perform services as assigned, following SERVPRO production guidelines. Communicate with the customer to make sure that all needs are met. A support crew chief and other production personnel as needed. Clean and maintain vehicles, equipment, warehouse, and office areas as needed.
Results Expected: Production processes are performed according to guidelines and work orders. Communications to crew chief and customer are timely. Jobs are completed at or beyond customer expectations. Vehicles, equipment, and facilities remain clean, orderly, and working properly.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. This company does not and will not discriminate in employment and personnel practices on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, national origin, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
SERVPRO of Framingham is the place for you! Contact us at (508) 370-4400 or shayes@SERVPROframingham.com.
It is that time of year when school will be starting back up soon. It's important to remember some key tips that will help keep them safe and healthy
It is that time of year when school will be starting back up soon. It's important to remember some key tips that will help keep them safe and healthy throughout the school year.
Here are some tips to make sure your child safely travels to school:
Review your family's walking safety rules. Make sure to practice walking to school with your child.
Walk on the sidewalk. If there is no sidewalk, walk facing the traffic.
Before crossing the street, stop and look left, right, and left again.
Make eye contact with drivers before crossing.
Always cross streets at crosswalks or intersections
Stay alert and avoid distractions.
Teach your children school bus safety rules.
Teach your children to stand 6 feet away from the curb
Make eye contact with children who are crossing the street
Never pass a bus loading or unloading children
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with commercial damage. “Like it never even happened.”
The tax-free weekend comes once a year; that is usually right around the time school starts. This allows people to get school items tax-free.
The tax-free weekend comes once a year; that is usually right around the time school starts. This allows people to get school items tax-free, which could be a great deal of savings!
The sales tax holiday for 2022 will be held on Saturday, August 13, and Sunday, August 14. Retail items of up to $2,500, purchased in Massachusetts for personal use on these two days, will be exempt from sales tax.
If you spend more than $2,500 on an item, the entire amount paid for the item is subject to sales tax, not just the amount that exceeds that threshold. There is, however, an exemption with respect to clothing. An item of clothing is generally exempt from the sales tax unless the item costs more than $175. If it does, only the amount over $175 is subject to tax. If on the sales tax holiday, the price of an item of clothing exceeds $2,500, the first $175 is not subject to tax.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with commercial damage. “Like it never even happened.”
SERVPRO of Framingham Shares The Top 5 Summer Safety Tips
Summer is a time for adventure! Before you start with the fun and games, keep in mind these important summer safety tips.
Summer is a time for adventure! Before you start with the fun and games, keep in mind these important summer safety tips.
Water Safety: Drownings are number one of the leading causes of accidental deaths for children under five. To prevent this, parents are encouraged to keep a closer eye on their children, especially around water. Areas that are both in and out of the house should be kept closed off without supervision. Children participating in boating should always wear a life jacket.
Playgrounds: Spending time outdoors with your kids is a great way to enjoy the time. Certain activities on the playground are more dangerous than others. Parent supervision is important, to keep children from falling in playground areas. Almost half of all falls occur due to a lack of supervision.
Heat Exposure: Summer heat can be dangerous. On a hot day leaving kids dehydrated can cause exhaustion, dizziness, and even vomiting. Extreme temperatures can induce heat stroke. Parents should be extremely cautious about keeping kids hydrated with water.
Bicycles and Outdoors Sports: Bicycle injuries among kids 5-14 are more prevalent than any other sport. Children should always wear a helmet. Outdoor games such as skateboarding, rollerblading, etc should always stay on the right side of the road and go with the flow of traffic. Make sure to make eye contact with drivers before crossing.
Fireworks: Fireworks are dangerous and never advised around kids. Children should also never be allowed to handle sparklers. Picking a unique spot to watch fireworks can be equally as enjoyable.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with commercial damage. “Like it never even happened.”
What To Do If Your House Floods in SERVPRO of Framingham
Planning for a flood due to a storm is difficult, but you can take some small precautions to ensure your home is protected.
Planning for a flood due to a storm is difficult, but you can take some small precautions to ensure your home is protected:
Keep your rain gutters and downspouts clear of leaves and debris.
Ensure downspouts direct water away from your basement or foundation.
Be certain the ground slopes are away from your home.
Watch for small leaks in your roof, windows, doors, and foundation and fix them promptly.
When the rain is extremely hard and lasts for a long time, this can cause water levels to rise, which will flood your home. Sandbagging and trenching can help in some cases, but if water finally does start getting into your home, further action steps are needed.
“What do I do if I get water in my basement?”
At the first sign, that water is entering your home, cut the power to all outlets. Don’t forget to Unplug all machines and equipment such as freezers, heaters, lamps, and power tools. Put washers, dryers, freezers, etc. up on blocks to keep them out of the rising water.
If water has entered your home quickly contact your local utility company to cut the power to your home
If you have an electric sump pump, it is important that it stays plugged in. Shut off the gas or have your gas company do it for you if you aren’t sure how to do it.
A backup generator can be used to power additional pumps, water vacuums, and lights. Make sure that water has been cleaned up and isn’t destroying surrounding things.
Contact your insurance company as soon as possible.
Install fans to move air and dry your basement once the bulk of the water is gone.
Contact a qualified flood restoration expert such as SERVPRO of Framingham to determine what steps are necessary to repair your home from flood damage.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with commercial damage. “Like it never even happened.”
SERVPRO of Framingham Shares Things To Do Before Going On Vacation
After you are all packed for vacation and feel at ease, take the time to protect your home while you're on vacation with these tips.
You are getting ready to go on vacation for a week, and are all ready to go. After you are all packed and feel at ease, take the time to protect your home while you're on vacation. July and August are popular months when home burglaries peak.
Here is a checklist to help keep your house safe while you are away:
Set timers on interior lights: Don't allow your house to appear as if no one is home.
Power surges: Disconnect the computer, TV, stereo, and other electronics. You can also make sure they are plugged safely into a surge protector.
Don't make or socialize status updates: Never broadcast your location on social media.
Alert your alarm company: If you have an automatic security system in place, let them know you will be away for an extended period of time. Make sure the alarm is set properly when you leave.
Secure valuables: Put your jewelry or other valuables in a safe deposit box.
Set the HVAC: Set your thermostat to lower your heat or air conditioning usage.
Protect your pipes: Make sure pipes in vulnerable areas such as attics, basements, and crawlspaces are insulated.
Arrange for lawn care: Before you leave, trim tree branches that might allow access to a climbing burglar.
Stop newspapers and mail: Have them regularly picked up by a neighbor.
Plan exterior lighting: Set these lights on timers to deter burglars.
Don't leave spare keys outdoors: Get rid of spare keys that are around the exterior of your home.
Lock the garage: Secure the door and any entrances to the garage so they can’t enter your home from that access point.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with commercial damage. “Like it never even happened.”
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with commercial damage. “Like it never even happened.”
SERVPRO of Framingham Shares What To Do If Your House Is On Fire
It is never a fun experience when a house sets on fire. However, it is important to know what to do in case it ever happens.
It is never a fun experience when a house sets on fire. However, it is important to know what to do in case it ever happens.
These steps can help you, and your loved ones, recover after a house fire:
Find a safe place to stay: No matter the amount of damage, you likely can't stay in your own home for a little while until damages are completed.
Contact your insurance agent: You'll need to start a claim immediately. Make sure to save all receipts and keep a detailed record of all purchases. Your insurance agent should also be able to help you secure your property and offer restoration companies like SERVPRO of Framingham.
Take care of your pets: You should have your pets checked by a veterinarian after a fire. It can affect some of their health.
Get a copy of the fire report: You can usually get fire reports from your local fire department. This will be handy for yourself and your insurance claim.
Address your finances: You'll still need to make mortgage payments, even if your home is destroyed. Keep in mind that you need to continue any car payments and replace any credit or debit cards that may have been destroyed.
Recover your possessions: Items destroyed in a house fire are usually covered by insurance. To help make sure everything is accounted for, keep a home inventory of possessions. It is also a good idea to add photos of before and after items.
Take care of your family's mental health: Disasters can affect people's mental health. It is devastating and traumatic.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with your home damage. “Like it never even happened.”
SERVPRO of Framingham Explains Commercial Rebuilding Services
SERVPRO of Framingham is your one-stop shop for commercial construction. The last thing you want to worry about.
SERVPRO of Framingham is your one-stop shop for commercial construction. The last thing you want to worry about when you have a need for reconstruction is contacting and managing multiple repair crews.
We will work with your insurance company to restore your commercial property to help make it “Like it never even happened.” Our goal is to complete your commercial restoration project on time and within the budget with as little downtime to your business as possible.
We have a competent and experienced team that believes in delivering quality workmanship. Our full-service process includes: inspection and estimating, mitigation, restoration, and reconstruction.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with commercial damage. “Like it never even happened.”
SERVPRO of Framingham Helps Commercial Buildings With Restoration
SERVPRO of Framingham has the training and expertise to help make it “Like it never even happened.”
Commercial cleaning and restoration present unique challenges. You need a company that provides excellent results while minimizing the disruption to your clients. So when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services, SERVPRO of Framingham has the training and expertise to help make it “Like it never even happened.”
We can help:
Small Office Buildings
Large Office/High-Rise Office Buildings
Apartment Buildings
Restaurants
Hotel/Motels
Small Retail Stores
Large Retail/Big-Box Stores
High-Rise Residential
Manufacturing & Industrial
Government/Military
We serve commercial damages in the following areas:
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with commercial damage. “Like it never even happened.”
Leaking pipes, burst sewer lines, and natural disasters can leave your home severely water damaged. If your property is affected
Leaking pipes, burst sewer lines, and natural disasters can leave your home severely water damaged. If your property is affected, it is critical to identify the cause and act quickly.
Water damage can be very stressful to deal with, especially because more problems can arise. Here is some information that might help you understand more about water damage.
Water Volume: If your home is experiencing water, you can typically manage it on your own. However, if there is significant flooding that is not going away, it might be best to call a professional.
If your neighborhood is recovering from a large flood, and your home has suffered significant damage, you should hire a professional to help with restoration.
The first thing to do when you discover water damage in your home is to unplug all electronics. By using this equipment despite the situation could cause electrical shocks or even explosions.
Mold can spread quickly once it infests an area, so it should be inspected for growth. Oftentimes, mold can appear inside the walls or floors, so it’s important that this inspection is ongoing.
Before more damage occurs, eliminate moisture and dry out the affected areas. You can use fans or a large-capacity dehumidifier to circulate air and dry out the surrounding materials. This won’t prevent mold growth altogether, but properly drying out the area will help lessen the damage.
If insulation or carpet, are soaked with water, you need to dispose of them immediately.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with your water damage. “Like it never even happened.”
Extreme heat can make affect anyone quickly without even knowing it. You can help prevent your family from heat strokes with these few tips.
The summer temperatures are here, and to stay! There is nothing better than summer days, most would agree. However, it is important to know how to take care of yourself during the extreme heat weather.
Extreme heat is a period of high heat and humidity with temperatures above 90 degrees for at least two to three days. During this time, your body works extra hard to maintain a normal temperature.
Here are a few tips for how you can help yourself stay cool during these extreme temperatures.
Cover windows with drapes
Weather-strip doors and windows
Use window reflectors to reflect heat back outside
Add insulation to keep the heat out
Use a powered attic ventilator, or attic fan, to regulate the heat level of a building’s attic
Install window air conditioners and insulate around them
Never leave people or pets in a closed car on a warm day
If air conditioning is not available go to a cooling center
Take cool showers or baths
Wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing
Use your oven less to reduce the temperature in your house
If you’re outside, find shade
Wear a hat wide enough to protect your face
Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated
Avoid high-energy activities or work outdoors
Check on family members, seniors, and neighbors.
Extreme heat can make affect anyone quickly without even knowing it. You can help prevent your family from heat strokes with these few tips. If your home is affected by damage, whether that is water, fire, or storms, we can help.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with damage. “Like it never even happened.”
The summer months call for fireworks and lots of other fun activities. However, fireworks are not toys.
The summer months call for fireworks and lots of other fun activities. However, fireworks are not toys. They are designed to burn and produce motion or audible effects. Here are some firework safety tips that you should consider:
NEVER give fireworks to young children. Make sure there is adult supervision of all fireworks at all times
Always read and follow the manufacturer's directions
Buy from reliable sellers
Use outdoors only
Always have water handy
Never experiment or make your own fireworks
Light only one firework at a time
Never give fireworks to small children
Dispose of fireworks properly by soaking them in water and then disposing of them in your trash can
Never throw or point fireworks at other people
Never carry fireworks in your pocket
Never shoot fireworks in metal or glass containers.
Fireworks can be very dangerous if they are not used properly, they can even cause a fire to your home. If your house gets hit by a fire, call for restoration needs.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with fire damage. “Like it never even happened.”
SERVPRO of Framingham Shares How To Observe Lightning Safety Awareness Week
Lightning is popular in the summer months and it can cause much damage to any building. It is important to take precautions to help prevent damage.
Lightning is popular in the summer months and it can cause much damage to any building. It is important to take precautions to help prevent damages that might happen.
While it is advised to stay indoors during a thunderstorm, there are occasions when we might not be able to. It is important to have a safety plan in place for where to take shelter, what items to leave at home when stepping out in a thunderstorm, etc.??
?We may not know as much about the lightning as we think. It is important to be thoroughly aware of its dangers so that we can take the necessary precautions if we are ever caught in a storm.??
Lightning Safety Awareness Week helps to alert people that the outdoors are not safe during a thunderstorm. Lightning can strike from over 15 miles away and any delays in taking precautions can cause serious injury or fatality. Lightning Safety Awareness Week is important to spread awareness of lightning and lightning safety.
Here are some topics and links to help you become more informed during the week.
We are here to help you with any major storm, fire, or water damage. SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with residential damage. “Like it never even happened.”
SERVPRO of Framingham Shares 5 Tips for National Pet Preparedness Month
June is National Pet Preparedness Month. Pets are important in our lives so it is important for us to stay educated and share how to care with pets.
June is National Pet Preparedness Month. Pets are important in our lives so it is important for us to stay educated and share with others how to care for our pets.
Here are some tips to help our pets:
Identification: Make sure your pet is microchipped and, if they do not have one yet, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian.
The device can be scanned at a veterinary office or animal shelter.
It will display life saving information like your address and phone number.
If you move or change numbers let your microchip company know so that they can update their records!
Make sure identification tags are current.
Make sure to include if they need medication, or if they do not like other animals, on their tag to help emergency personnel know what type of care they need while they work on reconnecting you.
Know where to go!
If you area is prone to flooding or any other type of natural disaster, it is important to find a place outside of the area where you can take your pets with you.
It is a good idea to have a list of options and contact numbers for where you might go.
If you leave your home because the electricity is out and it too hot or too cold, it is the same for your pets, don’t leave them behind!
Stay together!
Natural disasters can be frightening for us and even more for our pets.
It is important to have them on leash at all times while you are outside.
Your area may have dangerous debris that they can get into.
If your home has been damaged, remember to keep cats in a carrier or confined.
Make a kit!
?A premade kit can be vital if you have to evacuate your home.
Good items to keep in your pet’s kit include a few days worth of food, bottles of water, extra medication, copies of veterinary records, poop bags, cat litter and pan, sturdy leashes and collars, first aid kit.
You will also want to have a list of pet friendly hotels, dishes, and if they have a favorite type of treat or toy!
Know who to contact!
If a disaster hits while you are at work or away from your home, make sure to discuss a plan of action in advance with a neighbor or family member.
Agreeing that if one of you cannot make it back home that the other will bring your pets and their emergency kit will make the situation much less hectic.
Have updated stickers on your front door letting emergency personal know how many pets are in the home.
Keep your veterinary clinic, pet friendly hotels, and the Pet Poison Helpline numbers handy so you are prepared for any situation you may encounter.
No one likes to think a natural disaster will happen in their area but having these strategies in place will help ensure that you and your pets are prepared. If a diasters hits your home, we are here to help restore your fire, storm, and water damage.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with residential damage. “Like it never even happened.”
"Our SERVPRO New England team is excited to cheer the Boston Red Sox to victory alongside our community! Let's go, Red Sox!"
A group of SERVPRO franchise owners in northern New England is proud to announce their collective sponsorship of the Boston Red Sox for the 2022 season. The SERVPRO owner group, which is made up of more than 30 SERVPRO franchise owners, is excited to come together and partner with their beloved Red Sox, making this sponsorship one of the first of its kind for SERVPRO.
"This new deal illustrates the SERVPRO family's love for their local communities, fellow New Englanders, and America's favorite pastime," said Jesse Mathewson, SERVPRO Marketing Team Member.
The sponsorship is marked by two LED signs that will illuminate SERVPRO's distinctive green and orange on the first and third baselines at every home game in historic Fenway Park, home of the Red Sox. The group will also sponsor National
Clean-Up Day on September 17, including the pregame ceremony and in-park promotions when the Red Sox host the Kansas City Royals.
This isn't the first interaction between the Red Sox and the brand, as SERVPRO's certified restoration specialists had the honor of cleaning and sanitizing Fenway Park at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.
"Being selected to assist an institution like Fenway Park, prioritizing safety above all else, following all IICRC guidelines and CDC protocols, was a privilege," Mathewson said. "Ever since that initial interaction with such a first-class organization, we knew we wanted to take the next step to make the partnership bigger."
SERVPRO's full spectrum of restoration, mitigation, construction, cleaning, and decontamination services are offered year-round, but one thing SERVPRO and the Boston Red Sox have in common is how each gears up during the Spring season.
"Spring is the perfect time to have your residential or commercial property cleaned and sanitized by our team of certified technicians from our New England SERVPRO locations," Mathewson said. "We are proud to support the Red Sox and our local communities, not only with this sponsorship but with any emergency or upcoming services and projects this year."
"Our SERVPRO New England team is excited to cheer the Boston Red Sox to victory alongside our community! Let's go, Red Sox!"
SERVPRO of Framingham Explains Summer Storm Safety
Summer is just around the corner it can also bring the threat of dangerous storms. There are ways to reduce your lightning risk while outdoors.
Summer is just around the corner it can also bring the threat of dangerous storms. There are ways to reduce your lightning risk while outdoors.
Buildings such as offices, schools, and homes have good protection. Once you are inside, stay away from windows and doors. Make sure to stay away from anything that conducts electricity.
If you have no safe shelter anywhere nearby, the following actions may reduce your risk:
Never shelter under an isolated tree or utility pole; these areas tend to get hit easier.
Get off hills, mountain ridges, or peaks.
Get out and away from ponds, lakes, and water.
Stay away from objects that conduct electricity.
Don’t lie flat on the ground.
Make sure to monitor the weather and postpone or cancel outdoor activities when thunderstorms are in the forecast. Always make sure that you are safe at all times; even if your building is damaged. We are here to help you with the damage that can be caused by storm damage.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with residential damage. “Like it never even happened.”
SERVPRO of Framingham Explains What to Do in the First 24 Hours After a Flood
Flooding in your home or business requires professional help. Call your local restoration company to help get it restored as quickly as possible.
Floods in your building can be devastating; we know firsthand how overwhelming and stressful this can be. However, we have some tips for you to do within the first 24 hours after a flood.
Take Pictures: Before you remove any water, document the damage for your insurer by taking photos of the damage.
Protect Your Health: The water could be contaminated by sewage or household chemicals. If you are staying near the flood make sure to wear rubber gloves.
Call Your Insurance Company: Notify your insurer soon after the flood. Keep your insurance company and local agent's phone number in your phone for times like these.
Remove Water: Once you get approval from your insurer to remove the water, use a sump pump and call a restoration company.
Mitigate Mold Damage: Mold can happen within 24 to 48 hours of a flood. Make sure to remove wet contents, including carpeting and bedding quickly.
Flooding in your home or business requires professional help. Call your local restoration company to help get it restored as quickly as possible.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with water damage. “Like it never even happened.”
SERVPRO of Framingham Shares How To Be Prepared for Natural Disaster
Natural disasters happen and we can’t always prevent the damage it might be. However, it is important to prepare as best as you can BEFORE one happens
Natural disasters happen and we can’t always prevent the damage it might be. However, it is important to prepare as best as you can BEFORE one happens. Here are some tips:
Double-Check Your Insurance?: Not every policy is designed with natural disasters in mind. Sometimes excessive damages from natural causes will not be fully covered. It is important to make sure to chat with your insurance agent to ensure you have coverage sooner rather than later.
Create Your Action Plan?: It is important to have a plan in place as well as necessary supplies. Make sure to document local shelters, evacuation routes, and medical facilities.
Choose a Restoration Company to Work With?: The best way to do that is to work with a restoration company that has expertise: SERVPRO of Framingham
With these three simple steps, you can feel at ease if a disaster strikes in your building. When disaster strikes your property you need experts to guide you through the process of making it "Like it never even happened." We are your one-stop remediation to rebuild the shop.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with water damage.
SERVPRO of Framingham Shares How to Have a Safe Bonfire
With the warmer weather comes much more outdoor fires such as a bonfire. While these can be fun for many, they can also be dangerous
With the warmer weather comes much more outdoor fires such as a bonfire. While these can be fun for many, they can also be dangerous and cause a bigger fire to a property.
Here are some safety guidelines to follow before the first match is lit.
Never build a bonfire on a high-wind night.
Keep a bucket of water or garden hose nearby in case the fire begins to spread.
Keep a close eye on the bonfire as well as anyone nearby the fire.
Do not burn aerosols, canisters, or anything containing foam or paint.
Ensure the wood you are burning is dry and seasoned.
The pile shouldn't be bigger than 5' x 5'.
After the bonfire is done, turn over the materials with metal shovels and douse the area with water. Make sure to follow all fire and safety guidelines to ensure that a fire doesn't start.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with fire damage.
SERVPRO of Framingham Shares Grilling Safety Tips for Summer
Grill fires can start and spread quickly when the grill is placed too close to a fire hazard.
Grilling is a great way to enjoy the nice summer weather. Grill fires can start and spread quickly when the grill is placed too close to a fire hazard. Here are some tips to help keep your home safe when using a grill.
Only use grills outside: Do not set it up inside your open garage or under a covered balcony. Any combustible materials that hang over the grill when it’s in use can catch fire quickly.
Place your grill away from your home: You should avoid placing your grill outside the back door or on the back deck because it can pose a potential fire hazard. Grills that are placed too close can cause a fire.
Make sure your grill is on a flat, level surface: Have your grill set up on a stable surface such as a concrete pad. This will help it remain level while cooking food.
Check your grill for leaks: If you store your grill inside during the winter months, check it over before grilling season begins. Check the gas lines to make sure that they are free of leaks before using your grill.
Always clean your grill after use: Clean your grill after each use with a brush and empty the grease tray when it begins to fill up.
Never leave your barbecue grill unattended: Never leave the grill unattended while you are cooking food.
Keep a spray bottle on hand: Keep a spray bottle filled with water beside your grill so that you can quickly extinguish smaller flames.
Following these charcoal and gas, grill safety tips will help you and your family enjoy a safe grilling season all summer long.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with fire damage.
SERVPRO of Framingham Explains Summer Storm Safety
Summer is just around the corner, but it can also bring the threat of dangerous storms. There are ways to reduce your lightning risk while outdoors.
Summer is just around the corner, but it can also bring the threat of dangerous storms. There are ways to reduce your lightning risk while outdoors.
Buildings such as offices, schools, and homes have good protection. Once you are inside, stay away from windows and doors. Make sure to stay away from anything that conducts electricity.
If you have no safe shelter anywhere nearby, the following actions may reduce your risk:
Never shelter under an isolated tree or utility pole; these areas tend to get hit easier.
Get off hills, mountain ridges, or peaks.
Get out and away from ponds, lakes, and water.
Stay away from objects that conduct electricity.
Don’t lie flat on the ground.
Make sure to monitor the weather and postpone or cancel outdoor activities when thunderstorms are in the forecast. Always make sure that you are safe at all times; even if your building is damaged. We are here to help you with the damage that can be caused by storm damage.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with residential damage. “Like it never even happened.”
SERVPRO of Framingham Explains What to Do in the First 24 Hours After a Flood
We have some tips for you to do within the first 24 hours after a flood.
Floods in your building can be devastating; we know firsthand how overwhelming and stressful this can be. However, we have some tips for you to do within the first 24 hours after a flood.
Take Pictures: Before you remove any water, make sure to document the damage for your insurer by taking photos of the damage.
Protect Your Health: The water could be contaminated by sewage or household chemicals. If you are staying near the flood make sure to wear rubber gloves.
Call Your Insurance Company: Notify your insurer soon as possible after the flood. Keep your insurance company and local agent's phone number in your phone for times like these.
Remove Water: Once you get the approval from your insurer to remove the water, use a sump pump and call a restoration company.
Mitigate Mold Damage: Mold can happen within 24 to 48 hours of a flood. Make sure to remove wet contents, including carpeting and bedding quickly.
Flooding in your home or business requires professional help. Make sure to call your local restoration company to help get it restored as quickly as possible.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with water damage. “Like it never even happened.”
Stop by Republic Plumbing Supply Co. on May 10th for our plumber luncheon! With food, drinks, and a gift card raffle, you don't want to miss it!
We love the community that we are a part of and thought it was a great time to host a plumber luncheon. It has been quite some time since we did one, thanks to COVID but now we are back!
Stop by Republic Plumbing Supply Co. on May 10th for our plumber luncheon! With food, drinks, and a gift card raffle, you don't want to miss it!
Come by and grab a complimentary sandwich. We look forward to seeing you there!
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with residential damage. “Like it never even happened.”
We take great pride in our services, customers, and team. We are highly trained in the restoration field.
We are a restoration company and we hope you never have to call us. However, sometimes we know that disasters can happen and there is nothing you can do about it.
We take great pride in our services, customers, and team. We are highly trained in the restoration field. Our customer's testimonials speak for themself.
“I can't say enough good things about Kevin and Rodney. I was so impressed by how hard they worked to get my home back together. thank you so much.” --Julia
“Great company to work with after I experienced a home fire. Rodney and Amy were great at cleaning up the damage. mauritizo was great to work within the rebuild. thank you servrpo” -- Issy
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with residential damage. “Like it never even happened.”
Both the Disaster Remediation and Rebuild Teams of SERVPRO of Framingham are highly skilled and professional.
Both the Disaster Remediation and Rebuild Teams of SERVPRO of Framingham are highly skilled and professional. Our certified technicians and licensed contractors will be there for you throughout the entire project life cycle. They will collaborate with you, keep you informed and make sure that your expectations are met. There is no need to manage multiple contractors, timelines, or invoices. SERVPRO of Framingham is your one-stop remediation to rebuild the shop. We will make it "Like it never even happened."
We are close by and ready to respond immediately when you need cleaning or restoration services. For major storms and disasters, we can even call upon special Disaster Recovery Teams for additional resources.
We are proud to serve our local communities:
Framingham, MA
Sudbury, MA
Hopkinton, MA
Ashland, MA
Holliston, MA
Nobscot, MA
Framingham Centre, MA
Saxonville, MA
Woodville, MA
Hayden Row, MA
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with residential damage. “Like it never even happened.”
With more than 50 years of experience, we’ve earned the reputation as a trusted leader in the restoration industry and specialize in fire
Your commercial property says a lot about you to potential clients and customers. You want to build trust and present your business or public space as a safe, clean place to be.
With more than 50 years of experience, we’ve earned the reputation as a trusted leader in the restoration industry and specialize in fire and water damage, specialty cleaning, mold, and so much more.
Our highly-trained professionals understand your need to keep business going, even after an emergency. That’s why we offer flexible solutions, working after hours or around the clock to complete your restoration project.
In many cases, SERVPRO can clean up in a way that the damaged space can be safely isolated from functional space so that normal operations can proceed around the cleanup. This minimizes the downtime you have for your facility.
We’re Faster to any size disaster™ providing 24/7 emergency service.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with commercial damage. “Like it never even happened.”
The last thing that anyone wants is for a fire to damage their home or office. Preventing a fire is possible.
The last thing that anyone wants is for a fire to damage their home or office. Preventing a fire is possible.
Here are some tips to help you prevent fires:
Ensure all your heating sources are working properly: Make sure to change air filters regularly.
Clean your stove and oven: Food particles that accumulated at the bottom of the burner could culprit.
Pay attention when cooking: Even if it’s just a pot of boiling noodles, never leave cooking unattended.
Check your dryer’s airflow: Make sure your vents are not clogged.
Store flammable products safely: Household cleaners are classified as flammable products. They can combust when placed too close to a large heat source.
Use caution with candles: Always put the candles out if you’re leaving a room.
Losing everything to a fire is a devastating experience. This is why you should protect your building whenever possible. These simple tips might help you prevent a fire.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with residential damage. “Like it never even happened.”
Why SERVPRO of Framingham is the Restoration Company To Call
SERVPRO of Framingham understands that having your building damaged from mold, fire, water, or storms can leave a lasting impression.
SERVPRO of Framingham understands that having your building damaged from mold, fire, water, or storms can leave a lasting impression.
You have a responsibility to keep claims costs down while still providing the best services possible for your customers.
We are uniquely qualified to help you get your property restored efficiently. Our results create a measurable difference, giving you many competitive advantages.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with water damage. “Like it never even happened.”
SERVPRO of Framingham Responses to Emergency Claims
Restoring your commercial property is our first priority.
Restoring your commercial property is our first priority. Your customer will appreciate the immediate response and you will feel relieved knowing you are in good hands. SERVPRO of Framingham helps with:
Pretesting Reduces Claims Expense: Restoring property is less expensive than replacing property.
Claims Inventory Service: We provide an itemized loss inventory.
Electronic Claims Information: Our Claims Information Center provides fast, accurate information you need to make decisions, including A Complete Electronic Job File, First Notice of Loss, Detailed Estimate, Digital Loss Photos, Scanned Forms, and Paperwork, Job Cost Data, and more.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with commercial damage. “Like it never even happened.”
Check Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors to help prevent fires.
It's spring season and that means it’s time to spring clean!
Most look at spring cleaning as a chance to remove dust from places and go through boxes stacked in their garage, it’s also important that you pay attention to fire safety.
Here are a few tips for you to follow:
Check Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Replace the batteries in your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. Make sure to also test each one.
Make Your Kitchen Safe: Spills in your kitchen increase the likelihood of a fire breaking out. Clean up spills right away to keep grease from collecting on your counters.
Inspect Electrical Cords: Electrical cords can become damaged and frayed over time. Check the cords in your house to see if there is any damage. If they are damaged, replace them immediately.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with fire damage. “Like it never even happened.
SERVPRO of Framingham Shares Fire Safety Information
It’s important to follow a few safety tips before firing up the grill to help prevent fires.
Springtime is here, and that means grilling is happening more. It’s important to follow a few safety tips before firing up the grill to help prevent fires.
Only use your grill outside.
Keep the grill at least 3 feet from siding, deck rails, and eaves.
Open your gas grill before lighting.
Keep an eye on your grill, fire pit or patio torches.
Clean your grill after each use; this will remove grease that can start a fire.
We know that fires can happen, but it is important to take precautions whenever possible.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with fire damage. “Like it never even happened.
SERVPRO of Framingham Shares Ways To Prevent Basement Flooding.
Water damage can happen at any time and can cause a lot of damage. It is important to get help from a professional and highly trained company should t
Water damage can happen at any time and can cause a lot of damage. It is important to get help from a professional and highly trained company should the need arise.
The technicians at SERVPRO of Framingham use advanced detection equipment. This allows us to thoroughly scope the property to determine the migration path of the water. It also ensures that the property has the water extracted and dried.
We use powerful extraction equipment and have specialized drying equipment. We are able to handle flooring of different types such as hardwood floors, tile, and cement.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with water damage. “Like it never even happened.”
SERVPRO of Framingham Shares Professional Help for Water Damage
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with water damage. “Like it never even happened.”
When water damage happens at your property, you might want to clean it up yourself. However, the downside is that water migrates quickly and can wind up far away from the origination point. This can cause damage to your house.
For example, a pipe breaks in a bathroom, and gravity pulls the water downward. Then it runs under the tile floor. It will go between the floor and exist into the living room all over a carpeted floor. If any moisture gets left in these areas, it can trigger issues such as mold. It is important to make sure you address these problems and hire a professional.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with water damage. “Like it never even happened.”
The technicians at SERVPRO of Framingham use advanced detection equipment. This allows us to thoroughly scope the property to determine the migration
Water damage can happen at any time and can cause a lot of damage. It is important to get help from a professional and highly trained company should the need arise.
The technicians at SERVPRO of Framingham use advanced detection equipment. This allows us to thoroughly scope the property to determine the migration path of the water. It also ensures that the property has the water extracted and dried.
We use powerful extraction equipment and have specialized drying equipment. We are able to handle flooring of different types such as hardwood floors, tile, and cement.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with water damage. “Like it never even happened.”
SERVPRO of Framingham Is The Disaster Remediation Company
SERVPRO of Framingham offers a wide variety of commercial and residential restoration services to our clients.
When damage strikes the home you need trusted remediation-to-rebuild experts. Witnessing your home being consumed by water or fire can be traumatizing. The only reassurance you can is rescuing as much property as possible and rebuilding the rest.
SERVPRO of Framingham offers a wide variety of commercial and residential restoration services to our clients. We have a team of certified and fully trained professionals who are ready to respond 24 hours a day, every day of the year, even on holidays to all emergencies.
Some of the services that we provide are as follows,
Fire damage restoration
Restoration of water damage
Restoration of storm destruction
Mold damage restoration and others.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with residential damage. “Like it never even happened.”
Though it seems difficult, preparing for a flood is possible to minimize the effect of the damage. Here are a few ways to prepare for a flood:
Visit FEMA's Flood Map Service Center to know the types of flood risk in your area. Also, make sure to sign up for your community’s warning system.
Purchase or renew a flood insurance policy. It can take up to 30 days for a policy to go into effect so allow plenty of time.
Make a plan for your household that includes what to do, where to go, and what you will need to protect yourselves from flooding. Make sure to be aware of evacuation routes.
Keep important documents in a waterproof container. Protect your property by moving valuables to higher levels. Also, consider a sump pump with a battery.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with water damage. “Like it never even happened.”
What Are The Common Causes of Commercial Building Fires?
Many cases of commercial fires are the result of human error, so it is important to educate yourself to help prevent it as best as you can.
What Are The Common Causes of Commercial Building Fires?
Whenever a fire arises, it is important to take care of people such as employees first.
Many cases of commercial fires are the result of human error, so it is important to educate yourself to help prevent it as best as you can.
Arson: This is the leading cause of damages from a fire in a workplace setting. This is instigated by the owner for the hope of collecting insurance on a failing business.
Human Errors: This can happen when there is poor judgment in the workplace such as leaving a cigarette unattended or even leaving the coffee pot on. It is important to take note of these items.
Apparatus: There are strict codes regulating the installation and maintenance of water heaters, boilers, and furnaces. The mishandling of installation and the lack of maintenance can ignite a fire.
Electrical Fires: These are responsible for many building fires and are usually the result of the misuse of an appliance. An appliance is used for a purpose than what it was designed for setting the stage for a disaster.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with commercial damage. “Like it never even happened.”
Choose SERVPRO of Framingham for Your Next Commercial Construction Project
While running the daily functions of your business, the last thing you want to worry about is when you have a need for restoration or reconstruction.
While running the daily functions of your business, the last thing you want to worry about when you have a need for restoration or reconstruction is contacting multiple repair crews.
We’ll work with your insurance company to restore your commercial property. Our goal is to complete your commercial restoration project on time and within the budget with as little downtime to your business as possible.
Here are just a few reasons to choose us:
Single Contact: Seamless communication is the key to any successful business restoration project. We will be there from start to finish to ensure it is done efficiently and professionally.
Expedited Restoration Process: We are a one-stop-shop. Construction will go much quicker due to our ability to coordinate construction work at the same time we’re mitigating.
Quality Workmanship: You will be proud of the results we deliver because our passion is to give you quality workmanship.
Clean Build Technology: We offer premium services using EPA-registered products for dust control, viral pathogen protection (including COVID-19), and other contaminants.
On-Time & On-Budget: Our professional construction service providers work with your insurance company to restore your commercial property.
Easier Insurance Claims Process: We will help you navigate the insurance claims process and coordinate the necessary paperwork for a quicker, easier experience.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with the restoration or reconstruction of commercial damage. “Like it never even happened.”
SERVPRO of Framingham Shares What To Do After A Flood
When a thunderstorm arrives it is not uncommon for a flash flood to occur.
When a thunderstorm arrives it is not uncommon for a flash flood to occur. The basement of your home or the showroom of your dealership fills with water it is understandable to think extraction first.
However, the first priority should always be safety. Here are some steps to take to ensure health and safety:
Reduce Additional Risks: Electricity can cause additional dangers with floods. If the power has gone out, and there’s standing water, you might be at risk for fire. Reach the fuse box and turn off the main power line, if it is safe to do.
Avoid Contact With The Water: Floodwaters may appear clean. However, they could be contaminated with bacteria, sewage, or household chemicals that can be harmful. If you must enter the damaged area, use proper protective gear.
Begin Cleanup & Mitigation: When storms damage your commercial or residential property the best thing to do is to call water remediation experts.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with storm damage to your residential or commercial property. “Like it never even happened.”
SERVPRO of Framingham Explains Actions to Take for a House Flood
Floods can be caused by a variety of things. Here are some practices to ensure the safety of you and your home
Floods can be caused by a variety of things. Here are some practices to ensure the safety of you and your home:
Avoid Risks: If you have to evacuate, make sure it is safe before you return. You will want to check for any warping, cracked foundations, or other structural damage.
Health: The water that is now in your home could be contaminated by sewage. It is recommended that you wear waist-high waders. Make sure to dispose of any food that comes in contact with the water.
Take Pictures: After a flood be sure to take photos or videos of your home to prove the damage to your insurance company.
Contact your insurance provider: Make sure you have your insurance company's information handy in case you experience a flood.
Clean-Up: This is where SERVPRO of Framingham steps in. We will help remove water from your house and mitigate mold. This will ensure there is no long-lasting negative effect on you or your house.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with water damage to your residential or commercial property. “Like it never even happened.”
SERVPRO of Framingham is always all about giving back and helping our local community whenever possible.
SERVPRO of Framingham is always all about giving back and helping our local community whenever possible. We believe in helping out causes that are close to our hearts.
We are supporting the fight against cancer through For Kid's Sake Foundation. Malia has been fighting neuroblastoma, and her father Glen is a longtime friend of our owner, David. Check out the link below to see how you can support the charity! You got this, Malia!
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with residential or commercial fire damage. “Like it never even happened.”
Our homes have more electricity than ever before. If things are not running properly a fire can break out.
Electricity is essential and we rarely think twice about it when we flick a switch. Our homes have more electricity than ever before. If things are not running properly a fire can break out. Here are some tips to help prevent a fire.
Check electrical outlets for loose-fitting plugs or exposed wires.
Don’t force plugs into outlets and do not overload outlets with adapters.
Make sure cords are not frayed or cracked.
Extension cords are designed for temporary use only.
Light bulbs should be the correct wattage for the fixture’s design, also make sure they are screwed in tightly.
Install Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters anywhere water could be kitchens, bathrooms, laundry, workshop, garage, basement, and outside.
Loose wires or fixtures are common flashpoints for fires.
Fires are a horrible disaster, it is important to know how to prevent one and share with others too.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with fire damage. “Like it never even happened.”
SERVPRO of Framingham Shares The Top Eight Reasons For Fires
The key to fire prevention is knowing the most common causes, so you can help prevent it as best as you can.
Fires can happen, though they can be impossible to prevent, there are still some important factors to understand. The key to fire prevention is knowing the most common causes, so you can help prevent it as best as you can.
Here are the top eight causes of fires:
Cooking: Never leave a stove unattended. Make sure to keep a fire extinguisher nearby.
Kids Playing with Fire: Parents should make sure that young children don’t have access to matches, lighters, and easily flammable liquids.
Smoking: An unattended burning cigarette or even a few fallen ashes on a carpet can ignite a serious fire.
Heating: Space heaters are extremely flammable; keep them away from furniture and flammable items.
Electrical: A power cord or faulty extension cord, can have your home in flames in a short amount of time.
Candles: Always ensure all candles are blown out before leaving the room.
Fireplace: Unattended fires are the main cause of fireplace-centered house fires.
Dryers: Dryers are loaded with debris, are highly flammable; this can lead to fires. Remove the lint screen after every use.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with fire damage. “Like it never even happened.”
SERVPRO of Framingham Shares Fire Extinguisher Use And Safety
A portable fire extinguisher can be a saving tool. Here are some quick tips on how you can use a fire extinguisher correctly
A portable fire extinguisher can be a saving tool. Here are some quick tips on how you can use a fire extinguisher correctly:
Pull the pin, pointing away from you, and release the locking mechanism.
Aim low, and then point at the base of the fire.
Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly.
Sweep from side to side.
Make sure to read the instructions on the fire extinguisher. You will want to become familiar with it before a fire breaks out. Also, it is important to encourage family members and coworkers to become familiar with it.
Remember, extinguishers do have their limitations! It is also important to ensure you have the correct type of extinguisher for your home or facility. Make sure you have the right one for your home or office.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with fire damage. “Like it never even happened.”
SERVPRO of Framingham Helps Restore Your Commercial Property After a Fire
Fire can do a lot of damage to businesses by far. In fact, most businesses that suffer a large fire simply never reopen their doors again.
Fire can do a lot of damage to businesses by far. In fact, most businesses that suffer a large fire simply never reopen their doors again.
Businesses may be impacted by a disaster such as a tornado or flooding, at some point or another.
With proper clean-up and repairs, a business can open the doors and start connecting with customers again.
Heat and smoke damage from a fire can destroy structures, and make the building dangerous and unsafe. It is vital to call experts as soon as possible, so you can restore your building in a timely and efficient manner.
SERVPRO of Framingham has a 24-hour response team. We are able to begin work immediately, so your business time doesn’t need to be down for long periods of time.
Our experts will assess the damage then begin work and start planning for the clean-up. This involves the smoke and fire damage; we also remove the water and foam that will have been used by the fire service to extinguish the blaze.
We will work with you to restore your commercial premises back to a fully functioning business environment as quickly and efficiently as possible.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with commercial fire damage. “Like it never even happened.”
SERVPRO of Framingham Explains Ways to Protect Your Home From Flooding
Flooding can happen anywhere at any time. It is hard to prevent flooding, but you can take precautions.
Flooding can happen anywhere at any time. It is hard to prevent flooding, but you can take precautions. It is important to know the flood level of your home first and foremost. Here are tips to help you:
You will want to make sure to raise switches, sockets, circuit breakers, and wiring at least a foot above the expected flood level.
Make sure Fuel tanks, air-conditioning units, and generators are anchored above your flood level.
A flooded sewer system can cause sewage to back up. Make sure to install an interior or exterior backflow valve.
Raise your home on piers or columns so the lowest floor is above flood level.
Make sure to have clear gutters, drains, and downspouts.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with water damage. “Like it never even happened.”
SERVPRO of Framingham Offers Biohazard Cleaning Services
We are trained to safely remove biohazards and dispose of them properly in accordance with OSHA and health regulations.
Exposure to biological and chemical contaminants can pose serious health consequences. Failure to properly substances can contribute to unhealthy and dangerous environments. We are trained to safely remove biohazards and dispose of them properly in accordance with OSHA and health regulations.
Equipped with the necessary safety apparatus and cleaning products, we can help transform these unhealthy environments back into clean, safe homes and offices.
The decontamination of a home or business due to trauma, sewage backups, chemical spills, hoarding, or other biohazards can be both dangerous and emotional.
We provide cleanup and recovery services for many biohazard situations. These include the following:
Sewage backups
Crime scene residues
Suicide/death accidents
Homicide cleanups
Blood cleanup
Accident cleanup
Hoarding scenes
Animal waste/remains
Chemical spills
Tear gas cleanup
Meth lab cleanup
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with your damage. “Like it never even happened.”
SERVPRO of Framingham Offers Trauma and Crime Scene Cleanup Services
Since crime or accident, scenes may involve bloodborne pathogens, harmful chemicals, and other dangers, we will treat your property with empathy.
Our technicians follow OSHA and EPA protocols to help transform an unsafe environment back into a clean safe home.
Since crime or accident, scenes may involve bloodborne pathogens, harmful chemicals, and other dangers, we will always treat your property and the people involved with the greatest empathy.
After the police have finished processing the scene, cleaning and restoration can begin. We will respond immediately and have the specialized training, protective equipment, and experience to safely clean trauma and crime scenes.
We help clean and restore:
Crime Scene and Trauma Cleaning Services
Fingerprint powder and evidence-gathering chemicals
Tear gas and pepper spray residues
Fire extinguisher residue
Blood, bodily fluids, and tissue remnants
Common Trauma and Crime Scene Scenarios
Crime Scene Residues
From fingerprint powder and evidence-gathering chemicals we can clean and restore your property after a crime scene investigation. Our trained Professionals clean, disinfect and deodorize the structure.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with residential biohazard damage. “Like it never even happened.”
SERVPRO of Framingham Offers Sewer Backup Services
Water from sewer system backups is very dangerous. The water is unsanitary and may contain bacteria and viruses, which could make one sick.
Water from sewer system backups is very dangerous. The water is unsanitary and may contain bacteria and viruses, which could make one sick. Special training and equipment are necessary to safely clean this type of contamination in a building.
There are three major types of contaminated water. We will inspect that contaminated water to determine the type of water and then plan the appropriate response to safely restore your home or business.
Category 1: "Clean Water"
This is water from a clean source, such as a broken clean water supply line or faucet. If left untreated, category 1 water can quickly degrade into category 2 or 3.
Category 2: "Gray Water"
This water has a significant level of contamination that could cause discomfort or illness if ingested. This may come from washing machine overflow; toilet overflow with some urine, but no feces; or dishwasher overflow.
Category 3: "Black Water"
This water is grossly unsanitary and could cause severe illness or death if ingested. Any contact should be avoided. This happens when there are issues such as flooding from rivers or streams, water from beyond the toilet trap, or water from the toilet bowl with feces.
Local and state laws may require a specific inspection and documentation protocol based on the size of the affected area. We can advise you on this process, providing guidance based on your unique situation.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with residential sewer water damage. “Like it never even happened.”
SERVPRO of Framingham Offers Mold Restoration Services
It only takes a small water leak, or humidity, for mold to form. Mold can spread quickly in as little as 48 hours, and produce allergens and irritants
It only takes a small water leak, or humidity, for mold to form. Mold can spread quickly in as little as 48 hours, and produce allergens and irritants.
If you believe you have a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property with our specialized training, equipment, and expertise.
Here are some facts about mold:
Microscopic mold spores exist almost everywhere; this can make it impossible to remove all mold.
Mold may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems.
Before mold remediation can start, the sources of water or moisture must be addressed.
Mold often produces a strong, musty odor, that you might be able to smell and identify.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with residential sewer water damage. “Like it never even happened.”
SERVPRO of Framingham Helps Resortation For Residential And Commercial Properties
SERVPRO will be there for you on a continual basis, from the time you request services until the job has been completed to your satisfaction.
SERVPRO will be there for you on a continual basis, from the time you request services until the job has been completed to your satisfaction. You can call on a project manager from your first point of contact and throughout the entire remediation process. They collaborate with you while working with our great team of technicians, carefully and expeditiously restoring your home or business to a like-new state.
We take pride in our major advantages such as:
24-Hour Emergency Service
Faster to Any Size Disaster
Highly Trained Restoration Technicians
A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry
Locally Owned and Operated
Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with commercial restoration. “Like it never even happened.”
SERVPRO of Framingham Uses Emergency Readiness Plan For Businesses
Without proper preparation, a relatively minor emergency can have tragic consequences for any business. That is why all employers should a plan.
Is your business ready if a disaster hits?
We never know when a disaster will hit, but it is important to have a plan ready.
Without proper preparation, a relatively minor emergency can have tragic consequences for any business. That is why all employers should create a contingency plan.
An Emergency Readiness Plan must include the following:
A procedure for reporting emergencies
An evacuation plan
A way to account for all employees after the evacuation
Medical or rescue duties being performed by employees, if applicable
To truly protect your employees, your contingency plan could also include a description of the various alarms that will go off in the event of an emergency. Make sure that any disabled workers will be able to understand the alarm system.
You may also want to come up with an alternative communications location where everyone can gather in the event of a fire or smoke damage to the property. You may similarly opt to find a safe place to store important records.
Once the plan is in place, select an employee to lead the facility in event of an emergency. That person will oversee the evacuation procedures and decide when to activate them.
Your employees should also be trained so they understand the plan. Consider holding practice drills to test the effectiveness. You can then adjust it accordingly.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with commercial restoration. “Like it never even happened.”
SERVPRO of Framingham is Faster To Any Size Disaster
We respond quicker with more resources and are proud to help with all of your restoration needs. For major storms and disasters.
We respond quicker with more resources and are proud to help with all of your restoration needs. For major storms and disasters, we can even call upon special Disaster Recovery Teams for additional resources.
There are many benefits when working with SERVPRO of Framingham:
24 Hour Emergency Service
We have technicians that are on call with specialized equipment
We have advanced training to quickly restore your property
We’re dedicated to responding immediately
In many cleaning and restoration situations, immediate action is needed. SERVPRO is strategically positioned to be faster to any size emergency. An immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with residential or commercial restoration. “Like it never even happened.”
SERVPRO of Framingham Share Cold Weather Storm Maintenance Tips.
Winter months may bring their share of problems. The winter weather can still create problems for homeowners and businesses.
Winter months may bring their share of problems. The winter weather can still create problems for homeowners and businesses. It is important to take precautions so that you don’t find yourself with significant structural damage.
Here’s a cold-weather maintenance checklist to help you maintain your property during the colder months:
Keep your pipes warm
Cold weather can lead to pipes freezing and bursting. To keep your piping accurate have your interior temperature above 55°F.
Keep water flowing
Water is slow to freeze while moving, so turn on your faucet to a slow drizzle.
Check your HVAC system
Make sure that the airflow around your furnace isn’t obstructed. This will help the heat can reach the rest of the house and also help protect your home against fires.
Prevent ice dams
When ice freezes on your roof and prevents melting snow from draining safely, it creates an ice dam. Left untreated, ice dams harm your roof and can lead to water damage. Take time to inspect your roof and shingles for damage to avoid worse problems down the line.
Keep your roof clean
You can prevent ice dams by keeping your roof clean. If an ice dam has already formed, call a professional removal service.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with commercial restoration. “Like it never even happened.”
SERVPRO of Framingham has Advanced Technology and Techniques
SERVPRO of Framingham has Advanced Technology and Techniques
We are ready to respond immediately when you need restoration services for your home or business. We have the training, equipment, and resources to handle any size disaster.
Moisture Detection and Measurement Equipment: Scientific drying principles rely upon specialized equipment to detect, measure, and monitor a property’s moisture levels. Recent advances, like infrared cameras, can help us detect water through a wall, ceiling, or floor.
Water Extraction Equipment: Powerful extraction equipment speeds the drying process by removing the bulk of the water from your home or business.
Drying Equipment: Industrial strength air movers and dehumidifiers are needed to remove the remaining moisture from ceiling, walls, and floors of your home or business. Proper drying helps to prevent swelling and warping of floors, walls, and furniture.
Odor Removal and Deodorization: Water and fire damage often causes powerful odors. The machines we use remove airborne contaminants and control the air quality during the restoration and cleanup process.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with residential or commercial restoration. “Like it never even happened.”
The winter months are here in Framingham and it is important to prepare ahead as best as you can.
The winter months are here in Framingham and it is important to prepare ahead as best as you can. Here are some great winter storm tips for you:
Learn how to protect pipes from freezing: Make sure your home heating sources are correct according to local codes and permit requirements.
Make sure your home is properly insulated: Check Caulk and weather-strip doors to keep cold air out. You might also want to install storm windows or cover windows with plastic from the inside.
Heating options: Consider buying emergency heating equipment, such as a wood burning stove or an electric or kerosene heater. Follow all of the manufacturer's instructions for safe use.
Fireplace: Consider keeping a supply of firewood or coal handy. Be sure the fireplace is properly vented and in good working order before using it.
Flooding: Consider purchasing flood insurance, if you live in a flood-prone area.
Emergency Kit: Check the emergency kit and replenish any items that may have been expired or are missing.
Ample heating fuel: If you have alternative heating sources, such as fireplaces, wood-burning stoves be sure they are in working order.
A winter storm can hit at any time, and sometimes we might not even be prepared for it. These are some tips to keep handy should the need arise.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with residential storm damage. “Like it never even happened.”
Our local SERVPRO Team is working to assist the Framingham Food Pantry here in Framingham, Massachusetts this holiday season.
Our local SERVPRO Team is working to assist the Framingham Food Pantry here in Framingham, Massachusetts this holiday season.
You can stop into our location (90 Elm Street Hopkinton, MA 01748) with any non perishable food items! The following items are most needed for the pantry: flour (2,4 or 5 lbs) canola oil, vegetable oil, and olive oil any size. They are also in need of personal hygiene items such as toothpaste, shampoo, and bars of soap.
We appreciate your help this holiday season! Happy Holidays!
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with commercial fire damage. “Like it never even happened.”
SERVPRO of Framingham helps commercial buildings restore
SERVPRO of Framingham helps commercial buildings with a wide variety of cleaning and restoration projects. These jobs can be either large or small.
SERVPRO of Framingham helps commercial buildings with a wide variety of cleaning and restoration projects. These jobs can be either large or small.
When your commercial property is hit with damage due to a storm, flood, or fire it can leave your employees in shock. It’s important to know that you have professional large-loss specialists to handle the restoration process as quickly as possible.
There are many benefits when hiring SERVPRO:
Available 24/7: Storms and other disasters can strike at any time of the day or night, so we can assist at all hours of the day.
Professionals: Our Disaster Recovery Teams are composed of elite technicians who have the training and resources to handle large-loss events.
Large Commercial Assistance: We serve industries such as hospitals, universities, and government facilities.
Personal Approach: Each large loss project is managed by our project manager, and we are with you every step of the way.
Teamwork: We will help you navigate the insurance claims process and coordinate the necessary paperwork for a quicker, easier experience.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with commercial fire damage. “Like it never even happened.”
SERVPRO of Framingham Prepares Businesses With Emergency Readiness Plan.
When disaster strikes your business, having a plan in place ahead of time for what may happen, can make all the difference.
When disaster strikes your business, having a plan in place ahead of time for what may happen, can make all the difference. The majority of businesses that come out stronger on the other side of an emergency are the ones that pre-planned for one by using SERVPRO’s Emergency Ready Plan (ERP).
With our Emergency Ready Plan, your business will be able to minimize interruption because you’ll know what to do and what to expect if disaster strikes.
Here are some benefits for choosing SERVPRO for large loss events
Available 24/7, including all major holidays: Storms and disasters can strike at any time, so we are ready to help as soon as we’re needed.
Commercial Large Loss Division: Our Disaster Recovery Teams are composed of elite technicians who have the training and resources to handle large-loss events.
Easier Insurance Claims Process: SERVPRO will help you navigate the insurance claims process and coordinate the necessary paperwork for a quicker, easier experience.
No matter the disaster at your business, or how large and small it is, we can help you get your business restored. If you are ready to set up your Emergency Readiness Plan, give us a call today.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with commercial fire damage. “Like it never even happened.”
SERVPRO of Framingham Provides Shopping Online Tips
Online shopping is the new normal. It’s important to take steps to protect yourself when shopping online especially during the holiday season.
Online shopping is the new normal. It’s important to take steps to protect yourself when shopping online especially during the holiday season. There is the convenience of making purchases at your fingertips.
However, it also makes it more lucrative for scammers. They can trick buyers into paying for goods they won’t receive or even obtain personal information.
Here are some online shopping tips:
Think before you click: Beware of ads encouraging clicking on links. If it doesn’t legit, it more likely isn’t.
Do your homework: Prior to making a purchase, read reviews and make sure the company is established.
Consider your payment options: A credit card is much better than using a debit card.
Watch what you give away: Be alert to the kinds of information being collected to complete your transaction. If the merchant is requesting additional personal information, cancel the transaction.
Keep tabs on your bank and statements: Be sure to continuously check your accounts. Set up alerts so that if your credit card is used, you will receive a text message.
Keep a clean machine: Be sure that all internet-connected devices such as PCs, smartphones, and tablets, are free from malware.
Use secure Wi-Fi: Public Wi-Fi to shop online is convenient, but it is not cyber safe. Don’t make purchases via public Wi-Fi; instead, use your phone as a hotspot.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with residential or commercial restoration damage. “Like it never even happened.”
SERVPRO of Framingham Celebrates Small business Saturday
We support and love all of our local small businesses not only today but throughout the year.
With the holidays here, people are trying to find the best deals for all of the items on family and friends. There is an entire day dedicated to the small local businesses: Small Business Saturday. We support and love all of our local small businesses not only today but throughout the year.
This year, Small Business Saturday lands on November 27th. It is important to support local businesses especially after the year we have had. We can’t wait to see all the great sales from our local community.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with residential or commercial fire damage. “Like it never even happened.”
Happy Thanksgiving to all of our friends and family in Framingham.
Thanksgiving Day is a national holiday in the United States. In 1621, the Plymouth colonists and Wampanoag Native Americans shared an autumn harvest feast that is acknowledged today as one of the first Thanksgiving celebrations in the colonies.
Here are some Thanksgiving safety tips:
Keep baking soda on hand to put out kitchen fires.
Do not leave food cooking unsupervised
Have a fire extinguisher nearby.
Do not leave candles burning unattended
Do not burn candles near flammable items like curtains.
Follow instructions carefully when using a deep fryer.
Happy Thanksgiving to all of our friends and family in Framingham.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with residential or commercial fire damage. “Like it never even happened.”
We all know that winter in the Framingham area can be dangerous and can change quickly. Here are some winter tips.
We all know that winter in the Framingham area can be dangerous and can change quickly. There isn’t one correct way to prepare for winter storms, however, here are some important things to know.
Winter Storm Warning: This is issued when hazardous weather is arriving such as heavy snow, freezing rain, or sleet. This is usually issued 12 to 24 hours before the weather is expected.
Winter Weather Advisory: This is issued for accumulations of snow, freezing rain, and sleet which will cause significant inconveniences.
Know Your Risk for Winter Storms: Pay attention to the weather and warnings of freezing weather or winter storms.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with residential or commercial storm damage. “Like it never even happened.”
SERVPRO of Framingham Shares Christmas Tree Safety
Fires are very common around the holidays for many different reasons: Christmas trees or lights.
Fires are very common around the holidays for many different reasons: Christmas trees or lights. Roughly three-quarters of Christmas tree fires occur in December or January. (National Fire Protection Association). To help keep fires down this holiday season here are some tips:
Use lights that produce low heat; look for miniature lights, they help reduce the drying of the tree.
Always inspect light sets prior to placing them on the tree; If they look worn use a new set.
Do not overload electrical circuits.
Always turn off the lights when leaving the house.
If the tree is dry, remove it from the house.
Never burn any part of the tree in a wood stove or fireplace.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with residential or commercial fire damage. “Like it never even happened.”
SERVPRO of Framingham Shares Thanksgiving Cooking Safety
The kitchen is used a lot during the holidays, therefore keeping fire safety top of mind is important. Here are some tips.
Did you know that cooking fires are the number one cause of home fires?
The kitchen is used a lot during the holidays, therefore keeping fire safety top of mind is important. Here are some tips so you and your loved ones can stay safe during the holiday:
Stay in the kitchen when you are cooking and keep an eye on the food.
Check on your turkey frequently.
Keep children at least three feet away from the stove.
Watch electric cords; you do not want them dangling off the counter.
Keep matches and lighters out of the reach of children.
Keep the floor clear so you don’t trip.
Make sure your smoke alarms are working.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with residential or commercial fire damage. “Like it never even happened.”
Halloween is a fun day for many parents and kids. They get to dress up as their favorite character, or person, and get free candy. However, along with Trick or Treating comes safety; this is the utmost important thing for all kids.
Here are safety tips for this day:
Walk Safely: Make sure to cross the street at corners. Also, make sure to use traffic signals and crosswalks. Double-check left, right, and left again when crossing.
Put electronic devices down: Pay attention to your surroundings. Keep your heads up and walk. Do not run across the street.
Walk on sidewalks or paths: If there are no sidewalks, walk facing traffic.
Watch for cars: Look out for cars that are turning or backing up. Do not dart out into the street or cross between parked cars.
Wear bright colors: Make sure to have some reflective tape or stickers and choose light colors so people can see you at night.
Drive safe: Take extra time to look for kids at intersections, on medians, and in any hidden areas.
Make sure to turn your headlights on so you can spot children from greater distances.
Popular trick-or-treating hours are 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Be especially alert for kids during those hours.
Most of all have fun and be safe! Happy Halloween.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with residential or commercial damage. “Like it never even happened.”
SERVPRO Framingham Honors National First Responders Day
October 28th is National First Responders Day. This is a day to honor the men and women who act quickly when an emergency is at hand.
October 28th is National First Responders Day. This is a day to honor the men and women who act quickly when an emergency is at hand.
First responders dedicate their lives to save lives. They are people who run toward a crisis while the rest of the world flees. First responders are firefighters, police, emergency medical technicians (EMT), paramedics, and 911 operators.
In an emergency, they are the first on the scene.
We honor this national day of gratitude and pay tribute to their endless hours around the clock service provided. Their sacrifices go beyond the hours they work, and they often face high stress.
HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalFirstRespondersDay
This day provides you with an opportunity to recognize a first responder in your life.
Offer to treat them to their favorite beverage
Buy their next meal
Hand deliver a note and gift
Support their family too
Beyond that, connect with a first responder who rescued someone and thank them. Let them know you appreciate their dedication and sacrifice not just today, but every day.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with residential or commercial damage. “Like it never even happened.”
A fire can be a devastating loss to anyone. Here are some common causes of fire within your home or business:
Smoking Indoors Many people smoke in their homes. A fire can be started from a simple ash falling to someone falling asleep with a light cigarette. Smoking in your home is not only dangerous but also damaging to the homes structure. Unmaintained Dryer Vents Lint accumulates quickly! Cleaning your dryer vents regularly is extremely important, preferably after or before every load. It only takes one small spark or too much heat for lint to burn. Faulty Electrical Equipment Always make sure the wires on your appliances are not stripped or exposed in any way. Overloading Outlets Another electrical hazard is overloading an outlet or extension cord. Never plug multiple power outlets into each other Candles Candles should always be put out when leaving the home. Always make sure they are on a level surface and away from any fabrics or fire starters. Space Heaters Space heaters have the potential to be very dangerous. Nothing should be left to close in front or back of a space heater. The unit itself can get very hot, not to mention the air it disperses. Cooking Always keep a fire extinguisher in your kitchen. Many things can go wrong while cooking. Especially with open flame, gas stoves.
If a fire causes damage to your commercial or residential property, please call SERVPRO of Framingham at (508) 370-4400
World Mental Health Day is celebrated on October 10th. This day raises awareness and mobilizes efforts to support mental health.
World Mental Health Day is celebrated on October 10th. This day raises awareness and mobilizes efforts to support mental health.
Mental health is a hot topic today. It means that people aren’t shy to address mental health issues and people are finally getting the attention they deserve.
However, that doesn’t mean there isn’t still work to do and continue to create awareness.
Many often misunderstand mental health because it is hard to define. Mental health covers several areas and isn’t just a one name fits all. These areas involve social, emotional, and psychological well-being. It can affect thoughts, feelings, and actions. By having positive mental health, we handle stress better and are able to realize our full potential.
HOW TO OBSERVE #MentalHealthDay
Not everyone faces mental health issues, but mental health can impact everyone at one point or another. Discussing mental health with your loved ones is a vital part to create awareness.
Organizations host a variety of events to increase awareness about this topic. Events may include educational seminars, free mental health screenings, walk-a-thons, marathons, conferences, mass media promotions, and public service announcements. You can find some here: https://www.nami.org/Get-Involved/Awareness-events
If you know someone who struggles with a mental health disorder, this is a great day to reach out to them. Some might not feel comfortable talking to others about their diagnosis, but knowing they have someone to reach out to can be life-changing.
You can also donate to an organization: National Alliance on Mental Health (NAMI) and the Brain and Behavior Research Foundation.
Share this day on social media with #WorldMentalHealthDay.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with residential or commercial damage. “Like it never even happened.”
SERVPRO Framingham Gives Back During Breast Cancer Month
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This is an annual campaign to raise awareness about the impact of breast cancer.
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This is an annual campaign to raise awareness about the impact of breast cancer. Help us RISE together to help uplift women in need within our local communities.
We all know someone who has been diagnosed with breast cancer at one point or another.
Each year in the United States, about 255,000 women get breast cancer and 42,000 women die from the disease.
Men also get breast cancer, but it is not very common. About 1 out of every 100 breast cancers diagnosed in the United States is found in a man. (CDC)
Breast cancer is typically found in women who are 50 years old or older. However, breast cancer also affects younger women.
Here are ways to give back:
Make a Donation: This will help cancer patients get the help and support they need.
Start a Fundraiser: Get involved with friends and family to start a fundraiser.
Join a Race or Walk: Your support can help fund life-saving research, treatment, and education.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with residential or commercial fire damage. “Like it never even happened.”
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) designates one week each year to recognize important fire safety topics.
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) designates one week each year to recognize important fire safety topics. This year it takes place from Sunday, October 3rd to Saturday, October 9th.
Even though this is honored for one week once a year, it should be noted that we should practice fire safety at all times.
The goal of Fire Prevention Month is to raise fire safety awareness but to also help ensure your home and family are protected. In 1922, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) named the second week of October Fire Prevention Week in commemoration of the Great Chicago Fire in 1871. (First Alert)
It is important to raise fire safety awareness and educate families, students and communities. Fire departments may provide education to their communities. They also might encourage parents and loved ones to practice fire safety.
The NFPA's 2021 campaign for Fire Safety Month is "Learn The Sounds of Fire Safety. (NFPA)"
Here are some ways to help protect your home and family:
Install smoke and carbon monoxide alarms
Have fire extinguishers at home.
Have an emergency plan
Have local numbers handy (insurance, restoration, doctors, vet, etc).
Test alarms
Change the batteries
Know how to use a fire extinguisher
3 of every 5 home fire deaths resulted from fires in homes with no working smoke alarms. Unattended cooking is the #1 cause of home fires. (First Alert)
Please practice whole home safety, so you and your family are prepared throughout the entire year.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with residential or commercial fire damage. “Like it never even happened.”
This year, the autumnal equinox arrives on Wednesday, September 22nd. Fall begins in the Northern Hemisphere.
This year, the autumnal equinox arrives on Wednesday, September 22nd. Fall begins in the Northern Hemisphere and spring begins in the Southern Hemisphere.
This marks the turning point when darkness begins to win out over daylight. Our hours of daylight have been slightly shorter each day since the summer solstice in June; this is the longest day of daylight of the year.
For the next three months, our hours of daylight will continue to grow shorter. At the autumnal equinox, day and night are approximately equal in length.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with residential or commercial fire damage. “Like it never even happened.”
SERVPRO Framingham Emergency Supply Kits For National Preparedness Month
A supply kit is a must when planning for potential disasters. You should make sure you and your family have the necessary food and supplies.
A supply kit is a must when planning for potential disasters. You should make sure you and your family have the necessary food and supplies until the power returns.
It is also important to keep the kit maintained. Keep food and water fresh. Also, make sure supplies working properly. It is typically best to store the kit, along with any pet supplies, in a closet or pantry.
Here is a basic emergency supply kit list:
Water (one gallon per person per day for several days, for drinking and sanitation)
Food (at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food)
Battery-powered radio and an NOAA Weather Radio
Flashlight
First aid kit
Extra batteries
Dust mask (to help filter contaminated air)
Moist towelettes, garbage bags, and plastic ties (for personal sanitation)
Wrench or pliers (to turn off utilities)
Manual can opener (for food)
Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery
Non-prescription medications such as pain relievers
Prescription eyeglasses or contact lens solution
Infant formula, bottles, diapers, wipes, and diaper rash cream
Pet food and extra water for your pet
Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification, and bank account records saved electronically
Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person
Complete change of clothing appropriate for your climate
Fire extinguisher
Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items
Paper cups, plates, paper towels, and plastic utensils
Books, games, puzzles, or other activities for children
Source; https://www.ready.gov/kit
If you are a business owner and need assistance with planning for a disaster, give us a call and we can help you create an Emergency Readiness Plan.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with residential or commercial fire damage. “Like it never even happened.”
SERVPRO Framingham honors National Preparedness Month
National Preparedness Month is an observance every September to raise awareness about the importance of preparing for disasters.
National Preparedness Month is an observance every September to raise awareness about the importance of preparing for disasters and emergencies; these could happen at any time.
The best tip we can provide you with is to make a plan; you never know when a disaster might strike. Talk to your friends and family about how you will communicate before, during, and after a disaster.
You will also want to build a kit, should a disaster strike. Gather supplies that will last for several days for everyone living in your home. Make sure to consider the needs of each person in case you have to evacuate quickly.
Become aware of your surroundings and know the risk of disasters in your area. Find ways to make your home prepared for storms and other common hazards. Make sure to also check your insurance coverage to make sure it is up-to-date.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with residential or commercial fire damage. “Like it never even happened.”
Sunday, September 12 is Grandparents Day; this is a special day for many grandparents.
Sunday, September 12 is Grandparents Day; this is a special day for many grandparents.
We support Grandparents’ Day because Grandkids Matter. Grandchildren thrive when grandparents are proactive in supporting a relationship with their grandchildren.
There is a special day for Mothers and Fathers so why not have a whole day dedicated to our grandparents. Grandparents and children have a special bond. This day is an opportunity to treasure that time together.
Make sure to spend time with your Grandparents not only today but as often as you can. Sometimes we forget just how important they are.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with residential or commercial fire damage. “Like it never even happened.”
Patriot Day is a holiday observed in the United States on September 11th.
Patriot Day is a holiday observed in the United States on September 11th. This is to commemorate the lives of those who died in the 2001 terrorist attacks. This holiday also recognizes any who died attempting to rescue people. We at SERVPRO are saddened by this loss.
The U.S. Congress on Dec. 18, 2001, declared September 11th as Patriot Day. This is a yearly proclamation requesting that all U.S. flags be flown at half-staff.
Americans are asked to honor the dead with a moment of silence beginning at 8:46 AM, Eastern Standard Time. This is the time that the first airplane struck the World Trade Center. It is also to respect the ceremonies of remembrance when they are conducted.
Please join us today remembering those at this designation time.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with residential or commercial fire damage. “Like it never even happened.”
We hope that you have a healthy and safe Labor Day weekend and are able to enjoy time off.
Labor Day occurs on Monday, September 6. This is a day to tribute to the contributions and achievements of American workers.
It was created by the labor movement in the late 19th century. It later became a federal holiday in 1894. Labor Day is an annual celebration of workers and their achievements originated during one of American labor history’s most dismal chapters.
At the height of the Industrial Revolution in the United States on average Americans worked 12-hour days and seven-day weeks just to make a basic living. Even children as young as 5 or 6 were working in mills, factories, and mines across the country.
People of all ages faced extremely unsafe working conditions, sanitary facilities, and even breaks.
Now it is meant to symbolize the end of summer for many Americans. Typically this is celebrated with parties, street parades, and festivals.
We hope that you have a healthy and safe Labor Day weekend and are able to enjoy time off.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with residential or commercial fire damage. “Like it never even happened.”
As the weather starts to cool off you will find more people doing yard work and prepping for the new season.
As the weather starts to cool off you will find more people doing yard work and prepping for the new season. It is very enjoyable to work in the yard on a nice crisp fall day.
Here are some safety tips should you decide to do yard work in the fall:
Look Up Before Pruning Trees: Make sure you know the area before you start trimming your trees. You will want to know where power lines are before you set up your ladder and start with your trees.
Use Caution on Ladders: Your ladder should be placed on a flat, level surface. More importantly make sure to wear appropriate footwear, ladders may be wet and prone to causing slips.
Clean Up Fallen Leaves: You will want to clear all walk and driveways of falling leaves since wet leaves make for a slippery pedestrian hazard.
These are simple and easy little tips you can practice during the Autumn season to ensure safety all around you.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with residential storm damage. “Like it never even happened.”
As the fall months are getting closer and the weather will be shifting it is important to drive cautious in the coming months.
As the fall months are getting closer and the weather will be shifting it is important to drive cautious in the coming months. Here is what you might expect:
Visibility May Be Poor: Falling leaves, rain, or fog can limit your vision. As the days begin to shorten, the visibility of pedestrians also becomes difficult. If you find your visibility limited, slow down or pull over.
Watch for Children: Make sure to use extra caution around leaves piled at the curbside. Children love playing in large piles of leaves that can sometimes be hidden, proceed with caution.
Slow Down on Wet Pavement: Always keep a safe distance behind the car in front of you, especially in rainy conditions. Wet leaves on the pavement cause slippery road conditions.
Be Prepared for Changing Weather: Try to always be prepared for a change in the weather by bringing a warm coat, rain gear, and gloves.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with residential storm damage. “Like it never even happened.”
There’s nothing cozier than spending time with a fireplace or furnace to keep warm as the weather turns colder.
There’s nothing cozier than spending time with a fireplace or furnace to keep warm as the weather turns colder. However, there are also safety hazards.
Have Your Furnace Serviced: You will want to have your furnace inspected by your heating and cooling company. Ask them to check for leaks and ensure it is working properly.
Be Careful Using Your Fireplace: Screens are crucial so that it keeps flying sparks safely inside the fireplace.
Use Caution with Space Heaters: Space heaters are a great way to chill out of the air. Just make sure that you read the heater’s instructions before use and allow at least three feet of empty space around the heater.
Leaf Burning Could Be Dangerous: Burning leaves contain dangerous, make sure to wear a protective mask if you decide to do so. Never burn leaves on a windy day and burn them far away from your home.
Exercise Candle Safety: Candles give a wonderful ambiance to a room but can also pose a fire hazard; never leave candles unattended. Also, make sure to keep them away from pets and children.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with residential fire damage. “Like it never even happened.”
Roof gutters are traces that route water off your roof. Therefore, gutter cleaning is really important.
Roof gutters are traces that route water off your roof. Therefore, gutter cleaning is really important. Clogged gutters can cause water to pool on your roof, which can lead to water damage and structural damage. Poor gutter maintenance leads to problems with siding, windows, doors, and foundations.
Some gutters have leaf-catching systems to keep leaves out. Even these gutter need to be checked though. The best approach is to plan a day when you can get up close with your gutters to make sure they are ready for the next season.
If you want to manually clean your gutters the best time is the day after a light rain; the slightly damp leaves and dirt will come up easily. If you have a low-sloping roof, you may be able to use a leaf blower.
Leaves will accumulate at the drain outlets, so start cleaning there. If you are cleaning this yourself, use a narrow trowel to scoop and dispose of it in the garbage bag.
Next, use the hose to remove loose silt and anything else you missed. If there's an obstruction in your downspout, use a plumber's snake to work it out. Make sure to have a helper who can spot you on the ladder and help feed you the hose when you need it.
You will want to take a look at how water is draining from your roof. If you see large drips along the joints where sections of gutter are attached your gutters may need repair; give someone a call to check it out.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with residential damage. “Like it never even happened.”
Before you know it fall will be here, and then the dreaded winter months. It is important to think ahead and plan ahead now for these months.
Before you know it fall will be here, and then the dreaded winter months. It is important to think ahead and plan ahead now for these months. Apart from regular maintenance, it is time to wash the curtains, replace the shelf liners, and clean fixtures throughout your home.
This is the time to give your kitchen some attention:
Refrigerator: Take the time to remove all the contents, shelves, racks, bins, and trays, then wash everything with antibacterial cleaner. Get out the vacuum cleaner and clean the condenser coils.
Stove: No one likes cleaning the stove. If your model is self-cleaning, then you know the drill. However, if not you can place a cup of ammonia in a ceramic dish in the oven overnight; this will help loosen some of the baked stuff. Be sure to wear gloves and open all nearby windows.
Dishwasher: Yes, this gets dirty too. You will want to use some baking soda on a damp sponge and wipe down the interior liner.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with residential damage. “Like it never even happened.”
Fire prevention tips for your business in Framingham
These are quick and simple fire tips should your business ever need them. If you are looking for help in creating a Emergency Readiness Plan, contact
A fire can cause severe damage to business structures, equipment, and even inventory. A business owner should focus on fire risk assessment, fire prevention, and staff education to help reduce the chance of fire and smoke damage.
Here are three tips to help: 1. Have fire protection equipment: You might want to look into an automatic sprinkler system, this will provide primary fire protection for your business. Make sure that employees should be aware of the location of fire extinguishers throughout the building. 2. Fire safety in the workplace: Your employees part of your team but they’re also essential assets to your business. Make sure your employees know what to do if there's a fire. You will want to conduct a fire drill several times a year to keep employees aware of safety protocol. 3. Evacuation plan: Any business should post a fire evacuation plan in several spots around the workplace. Make sure to never include elevators in an evacuation plan and to always use the stairs. In case of fire injuries, your staff should be familiar with the location of the first-aid kit.
These are quick and simple fire tips should your business ever need them. If you are looking for help in creating a Emergency Readiness Plan, contact us today for no cost.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with commercial fire damage. “Like it never even happened.”
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with residential or commercial fire damage.
In the summer months, many fires are caused for various reasons. People grill outdoors in the summer for family gatherings, and celebrations.
Grill fires: Fires from grills happen when someone mishandles the igniting of the grill, such as coals, charcoals, or ashes.
Make sure you are in a grill-friendly environment: You will want to be free of branches, roofs, or any sort of overhang to help prevent a fire.
Air Conditioning Fires: Inadequate wiring can cause a fire because of electrical malfunctions. If your AC heats up, any flammable materials near your unit can catch on fire.
Smoking Fires: Smoking fires are common throughout the year; they are the leading cause of fatal fires. If you’re outside, be careful when smoking. Make sure to keep cigarettes off the ground and they are properly put out before throwing them on the ground.
Summer is a time to enjoy the outdoors, and have plenty of gatherings. The weather isn’t the only thing that heats up during these few months; be aware of the risk of fires.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with residential or commercial fire damage. “Like it never even happened.”
Summer is coming to an end soon, but there are still plenty of amazing things happening. It is a time for cookouts, bonfires, and outdoor activities.
Summer is coming to an end soon, but there are still plenty of amazing things happening. It is a time for cookouts, bonfires, and outdoor activities. However, all this time outside can lead to potential dangers. There are repairs and installations you can make throughout your home to finishing having a safe summer.
We’ve put together all the tips you need to keep your family and home secure throughout the summer.
It’s important to take inventory of what maintenance is overdue in your home.
Install sun shades to your windows to deflect heat.
Reseal any cracking caulk or weatherstrips on external windows and doors to prevent any leaks.
Inspect the outside of your home for cracks and any overhanging tree limbs that could fall during a storm.
Protect yourself in the event of a flood from a summer storm by double-checking that you have flood insurance added to your home insurance policy.
Spray your yard and home to protect it from insects, pests, and other creatures, setting traps or deterrents when needed.
Schedule a yearly inspection each summer to help catch termites and stop them in their tracks before they cause major damage to your home’s structure.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with residential or commercial damage. “Like it never even happened.”
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you should fire damage your property.
Did you know that July is National Grilling Month?
Enjoy the whole family together and fire up the grill. Summer is here and there's nothing better than outdoor cooking. Enjoy the summer months by celebrating and entertaining with the best kinds of summer food.
However, along with grills can come fires. Here are a few helpful tips for you to during your grilling season:
Keep your grill clean: Keeping your grill clean can extend the life of your grill. It can also help your food taste the best. Stuck on grease should also be cleaned since this can cause large fires when cooking.
Always preheat the grill: This helps prevent food from sticking to the grates. More importantly, it helps cook your food evenly.
Wash your hands often: Whenever handling raw meat, it is best to wash your hands with warm soapy water. This will prevent germs and cross-contamination from happening.
Keep the food cold: Keep food cold until you are ready to cook. If you allow food to sit out for a long time, bacteria may grow and cause sickness.
Monitor your grill: You should never leave your grill unattended, this can cause a large fire to anything nearby. Make sure to use a timer to avoid overcooking or undercooking your food.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you should fire damage your property. “Like it never even happened.”
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you should fire damage your property.
National Pet Fire Safety Day takes place every year on July 15th. This is a day to learn how to keep your pet safe in a fire. Pets are a precious asset and it is important that we dedicate a day to keeping them safe should a scary event happen.
Here are some facts about pets and fires:
Pets cause over 1,000 house fires each year in the United States. It is important to make sure that there is nothing nearby them that can start a fire.
Did you know that there are nearly 360,000 house fires each year in the United States? That is a lot of fire and damage; it is important to prevent fires whenever possible.
Over 40,000 pets die every year in house fires; it can be scary and devastating for many. Awareness can save lives, just having a plan should a fire arise is critical.
The best tip should a fire arise in your home or business, is to have an escape plan that includes your pets. Discuss who will be in charge of rescuing your pet in the event of a fire. Practicing fire drills can help your family, but also ensures your pets are not forgotten.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you should fire damage your property. “Like it never even happened.”
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with residential weather damage
Summer is the season we all look forward to, it is a great time of year for cookouts, swimming pools, playing sports, or hanging on the deck. However, the summer sun can also get a little sweltering. It is important to practice sun safety.
Extreme heat is when there are five straight days of temperatures 9 degrees above normal. This can pose a danger and cause serious health issues. Here are some tips for you to practice:
Wear SPF 30 Sunscreen: Use a sunscreen with an SPF 30 rating and also reapplying every two hours.
Wear Physical Protection: Physical protection (such as hats, or sunglasses), can help block your skin from the sun. If you’re going for a run, walk, or even a hike don’t underestimate how damaging the sun can be. Make sure to reapply your sunscreen as needed.
Protect Your Lips: Your lips can get sunburned. A simple way to prevent sunburn on your lips is to use an SPF moisturizing lip balm.
Seek Shade: Staying in direct sunlight for too long can cause short-term and long-term damage. Do your best to take care of your skin during sunny days. From 10 am to 4 pm are when UV light is the strongest, it is best to plan your activities around that time.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with residential weather damage. “Like it never even happened.”
Flooding can happen quickly, it is important to make sure to get notifications from your local weather channels so you can act quickly.
Summer is the time of year when flooding happens a lot. This can cause damage to any residential or business building. Here are some great tips should flooding happen:
Find safe shelter right away.
Do not walk, swim or drive through floodwaters.
Stay off bridges over fast-moving water.
Evacuate if told to do so.
Check up on flood insurance policy.
Make a plan for your household, including your pets.
Learn and practice evacuation routes and shelter plans.
Gather supplies, including non-perishable foods, cleaning supplies, and water for several days.
Move valuables to higher levels.
Check on your sump pump.
Flooding can happen quickly, it is important to make sure to get notifications from your local weather channels so you can act quickly too. Be careful if you have a flood warning!
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with any flooding damage. “Like it never even happened.”
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with residential or commercial damage. “
A hurricane can hit anywhere or at anytime. By now, we have been getting major effects from hurricane season and it can cause damage to your home or business. There are some things you can in preparation should a hurricane, or storm weather hits.
Create a plan with your family: Whether it’s the possibility of tornadoes, hurricanes, or floods families need to be prepared, this can help reduce chaos. A plan should include evacuation routes, emergency numbers, shelter possibilities, and a communication strategy.
Build a disaster kit: A disaster kit may be different for each family. The kit should have basics: bottled water, non-perishable snacks, flashlights, batteries, sanitation items, important documents, and first aid kits.
Practice the plan: You will want to practice evacuation routes, where to go for shelter, and memorizing emergency numbers.
Stay informed: You will want to keep your family safe, so staying informed is critical. When a major disaster occurs, it is advised that everyone should have a reliable resource for emergency alerts: phone apps or emergency radio.
Tackle storm anxiety: Creating a plan is the first step in tackling anxiety. Make sure to allow your child to talk through their fears and concerns. This can help everyone around, remain calm.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with residential or commercial damage. “Like it never even happened.”
Top Five Things To Prepare For In A Business Disaster in Framingham
If you are in need of creating an Emergency Readiness Plan, contact us directly for NO CHARGE. We would be honored to help you set up your plan should
No matter what disaster your business may face, here are five simple ways you can prepare before, during, and after a natural disaster.
Create an emergency operations plan: If a natural disaster struck your business, what would happen in the hours that follow? Who would be in charge? Would employees be allowed to work remotely? There are so many critical questions to ask.
You will want to create an Emergency Readiness Plan for your business. As you draft your plan, make sure it addresses the following areas:
Outline a way to communicate and make sure the contact information you have with each employee is updated.
If a natural disaster occurs while at work, does everyone know how to safely evacuate the building?
Back up important data: No matter what your business is you will want to safely store important business paperwork. Put paperwork in an off-site location and make copies as needed. Don’t forget about the benefits of being in the cloud either.
Meet with an insurance advisor: It’s wise to meet with your insurance advisor and review your company’s existing coverage. You may find you need to invest in additional coverage depending on the area where you conduct business.
Maintain communication: It is important to communicate with employees, clients, and customers. Your plan should detail how communication will be maintained during the disaster and its aftermath.
5. Regroup in your community: Small businesses impacted by a natural disaster generally do not come out of it as though nothing has happened. It may take business longer to rebuild. For some small businesses, a natural disaster is enough to close business entirely. If your business is back up and running, now is the time to offer a helping hand to other businesses.
If you are in need of creating an Emergency Readiness Plan, contact us directly for NO CHARGE. We would be honored to help you set up your plan should a disaster strike.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with commercial damage. “Like it never even happened.”
Plumbers Luncheon at Republic Plumbing Supply Co on 06/15
Tom and Monique at Republic Plumbing Supply Co in Framingham, MA
SERVPRO of Framingham hosted a plumbers lunch table at Republic Plumbing Supply Co in Framingham, MA on June 15th. We are incredibly grateful to work with amazing plumbers in the area, and we were lucky to show our appreciation. Thomas Riley, the Director of Sales and Marketing and Monique Shanley, the Office Manager offered platters of sandwiches, cookies, chips, and sodas to plumbers stopping by the supply store. A Republic gift card giveaway also occurred, which Dufton Plumbing of Natick, MA won! We had the chance to speak with many plumbers and let them know about our damage restoration business servicing the Framingham, MA area. We are always here to help with the clean up after experiencing a water loss. We are grateful to be of assistance to all who live in the Framingham, MA area, and being there for our community is of utmost importance to all of us at SERVPRO of Framingham. More lunch opportunities will happen in the future, so stay tuned!
Fireworks Safety Month is in June. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission enforces safety measures for fireworks.
Fireworks Safety Month is in June. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission enforces safety measures for fireworks. Summer months are filled with celebrations of summer, vacations, and the Fourth of July.
Summer is a fun time for outdoor activities such as barbeques. However, many like to celebrate with fireworks. Fireworks are beautiful; they burst and simply bloom across the dark sky. Fireworks’ safety should be taken heavily. Most fireworks injuries are reported between June 16 to July 16.
It is important to learn about fireworks safety methods and instructions.
Speak up if you see others indulging in fireworks activities that are dangerous.
Practice using fireworks safely. It’s a celebration of our protectors; the fire and health departments work hard for our comfort and safety; practice safe fireworks.
Go all out in enjoying any celebrations, but practice the necessary safety precautions while doing it.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and get your home back to “Like it never even happened.”
National Safety Month is celebrated in June. This is when people focus on how to keep their environment safe and danger-free in the workplace
National Safety Month is celebrated in June. This is when people focus on how to keep their environment safe and danger-free in the workplace. It is a time to reflect on how to create a safer environment for business owners and employees. By learning about safety methods, it can help increase pressure on employers to offer a safer working environment.
HOW TO CELEBRATE NATIONAL SAFETY MONTH
Conduct a fire drill: Taking precautionary measures can prevent severe damage if a fire were to happen. It is a great time to conduct a fire drill. Select a safety point that's close to your business and test your fire alarms to perform the drill.
Update your first-aid kit: Keep an updated first aid kit and stock it with dressings, bandages, tape, ointments, wipes, aspirin, gloves, scissors, and gauze pads.
WHY NATIONAL SAFETY MONTH IS IMPORTANT
It focuses on all aspects of employee health and safety, instead of focusing on a single workplace hazard, the National Safety Council selects four different types of health and safety issues each year.
It offers safety tips for everyday life and it teaches us to be proactive when it comes to anticipating potential disasters. This is something that you can implement at your workplace to make it safer.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and get your business back to “Like it never even happened.”
The National Weather Service (NWS) recognizes many safety hazards during the summertime including air quality, floods, heat, hurricanes, lightning.
Did you know that June is the month for summer awareness? It seems obvious, however, there is a lot to consider.
The National Weather Service (NWS) recognizes many safety hazards during the summertime including air quality, floods, heat, hurricanes, lightning, rip currents, tornadoes, and wildfires. Here are a few summer safety storm warning tips:
Watch the Clouds: A severe storm with the potential of developing deadly weather will often look very dark or green.
Pay Attention to the Temperature: For severe storms and tornadoes to form, a mixture of warm, moist air at low levels has to collide with dry cold air above.
Sudden Wind Changes: Be prepared if it suddenly gets very windy or if there is an abrupt calm during or after a thunderstorm.
Precipitation Changes: Be aware of hail or heavy rain followed by either calm or a fast, intense wind shift.
Listen Intently: If you hear a loud roar that is similar to a freight train, take shelter right away; a tornado could likely be spawned.
Check the Radar: You don’t have to be a meteorologist to interpret the radar. When observing storms on the radar, look for large lines of red.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and get your home back to “Like it never even happened.”
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and get your home back to “Like it never even happened.”
Did you know June 28 is National Insurance Awareness Day? It is a good idea to check out yearly your insurance coverages and deductibles; you never know when a disaster can strike in your home. It could be an unfortunate and devastating loss. This means it is a good day to evaluate your insurance coverage and assess your risk.
It is important to review your policies and consider any life changes that might require updating your coverage. This can help you in the future should a disaster ever happen.
Hurricane season started on June 1st. It is important to know the storm risk in your area. Do you need supplemental flood or wind insurance? Remember: anywhere that it can rain, it can flood.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and get your home back to “Like it never even happened.”
Hopkinton Begins Planning in $29 Million International Marathon Center
The potential museum would cost $29 million dollars to erect.
Hopkinton may become the future home of an International Marathon Center, just 3,000 feet from the start of the famous Boston Marathon. Although the projected space where the museum will potentially be is overgrown now, former Boston Marathon director Tim Kilduff believes that this area has potential to be the future home to a large museum featuring all things that have to do with the sport of marathoning. With a hall featuring renowned marathoning stars, and 13,000 square ft of other captivating exhibits, this museum could be a top site to visit when in the Massachusetts area. Norman Khumalo, Hopkinton Town Manager, notes that “The Boston Marathon has offered Hopkinton the opportunity to connect with people all over the world, “That’s the strength of part of what the center will do, to allow those relationships to flourish on an ongoing basis." The IMC will include a museum, hall of fame, an auditorium, conference and event space, exhibition halls, as well as education and research space. The spaces will be available to businesses, for education, and private community groups.
Storm damage to your Hopkinton, MA residential or commercial property can force you to hit the pause button. An intense storm can bring water, wind, and even debris to your front door. Winds in excess of fifty miles an hour can blow signs, tree branches, and fencing into your property. A mighty gust of wind could throw open doors of and allow storm damage inside. Storm damage like this could enable:
Contaminated water to rush into your property
Flooring to become damaged or waterlogged
Mud and debris
Risk of mold and structural damage
Class 3 water is a serious issue and should not be ignored. It can contain biohazards, petroleum, gas, and other harsh chemicals. Should it impact the rugs in your home, they cannot be remediated as there is no way to ensure safety. Our team understands the health risks of contaminated groundwater and removes any residual amount as we begin the cleanup and restoration.
Why SERVPRO
Our technicians specially trained and IICRC-certified. They are have access to a fleet of vehicles and a warehouse full of state-of-the-art, professional grade equipment to clean up any size disaster. It is always our goal to make you feel "Like it never even happened."
To clean up and remove storm damage, our technicians can:
Use wet/dry vacuums to remove excess puddles of water
Set up flood drying mats to draw moisture from hardwood floors
Clean your property with industrial-grade disinfectants and detergents
If your commercial or residential property has been struck by storm damage, get professional grade help. Call SERVPRO of Framingham at (508) 435-5146. We will make it, "Like it never even happened."
Dishwashers are essential to most residential homeowners these days. Most homeowners use them without giving a second thought to the possibility of the appliance leaking and causing water damage to their kitchen floor.
Unfortunately, if your dishwasher leaks it can quickly cause water to pool on your kitchen floor, leak into the subfloor, damage your cabinetry and more. When it comes to this appliance leaking, you need to take immediate action to prevent the spread of water damage in your Framingham, MA home.
When dishwashers flood your kitchen or cause water damage to the floor underneath it, there are certain steps you should take to stop the spread of flooding in your home and to properly clean up.
Be Aware Of Potential Safety Hazards
Whenever there’s a water you should make sure to check for any electrical hazards. The safest choice is to disconnect the power to your kitchen while cleaning up and call a licensed electrician.
Remove Standing Water
The average dishwasher uses about 6 gallons of water per wash. While this amount of water may not seem like a lot, it can cause serious damage to your home. You want to clean up puddles of water as soon as possible to prevent them from seeping under the kitchen flooring, into the subfloor, or even into the room below.
While cleaning, pull out your dishwasher if possible. You don’t want to overlook water damage underneath the dishwasher or the walls and cabinets around it, as this can worsen over time.
Look For Signs
Once you’ve removed the water the job is not done. Depending on how long your dishwasher leaked, there may be water damage to the floor underneath the dishwasher, the wall behind it, the surrounding cabinets, and even the ceiling below your kitchen.
You should inspect your kitchen cabinetry, flooring, walls, and room below for the following signs of water damage:
Bubbling or peeling paint
Soft or squishy walls
Bending or buckling flooring
Drooping ceiling
Water stains
Mold growth
Musty odors
If you find any of the above issues, you must take steps to have the additional areas of damage to be addressed.
Following these steps will help to minimize the damage to your home and may be all that is necessary clean up the mess. However, if you uncover additional areas of water damage or if you are simply not sure if the drying process is complete call the water remediation experts atSERVPRO of Framingham. We will make it, "Like it never even happened."
Severe wind and rain storms are common place in New England during the spring months. While many of the commercial and residential properties in the region get safeguarded against most of the troublesome effects of severe weather systems, no precaution is ever foolproof and a sever storm can result in flash flooding that can cause significant damage to your Hopkinton, MA commercial or residential property.
No matter the cause flooding originates from it is critical to act quickly to prevent significant damage to structural elements of your home and the contents found in the affected areas.
Fortunately, the Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framinghamis available to respond to your calls 24 hours a day, any day of the week, including holidays. This assurance shows you that even amid a disaster, you can count on our experience and professionalism to come through for you when you need restoration the most.
Our technicians get uniquely trained and certified in the most effective means of water damage restoration, from the modern techniques to the state-of-the-art equipment needed to deliver your house back in its former condition.
Extraction is a crucial component to resolving the flooding concerns, but this is only an option once the vulnerable points that allowed the water into your home have gotten repaired. The process to pull water out of the affected areas typically involves pump trucks from our SERVPRO fleet along with wet-vacs with extraction wands for areas that are challenging to reach with the more prominent pump.
Drying the area is a process that requires several different pieces of equipment. While the open areas can get addressed with industrial sized air movers and dehumidification equipment, that rarely completes the job. Often the water penetrates deep below the floors. This requires specialized drying equipment and techniques. Our Injectidry system uses several entry points to dry in between walls where water had gotten introduced to structural components of your property.
When storm damage strikes your commercial or residential property call the experts atSERVPRO of Framingham. We will make it "Like it never even happened."
Storms, hurricanes, heavy rains and winds can cause significant damage to your commercial or residential property. It is essential to completely get rid of the standing water residual moisture to prevent any long-lasting and/or secondary damage.
The drying of your Framingham, MA commercial or residential property after water damage strikes depends on several factors. The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are trained andcertifiedto make sure they can deliver rapid and efficient drying results. Here are the most critical factors affecting the rate of drying that you should know.
Temperature
The temperature of the air governs the rate of drying. Contents dry at a much faster rate if the temperature of the area to be dried is high as hotter air can carry more moisture. The ideal temperature for the fastest drying is between 70 and 80 degrees. That said, if the temperature of the room is above 85 degrees, the air can become saturated with too much moisture and can create secondary problems.
Volume Of Water
The volume of water dictates the time required for drying. SERVPRO of Framingham technicians can use extractors to eliminate the standing water and dehumidifiers and air movers to pluck out the airborne residual moisture. Their purpose is to prevent moisture from causing secondary water damage.
Relative Humidity
The relative humidity of the affected area also controls the rate of drying. Higher RH can slow down the drying process significantly. Dehumidifiers are used to extract excess moisture from the air and keep the RH low, speeding up the drying process.
Air movement
Air movement, or lack thereof, can be either a positive or negative impact to the drying process. The air in a water damaged area is usually damp which slows the rate of evaporation. Replacing this damp air with fresh and dry air can speed up the drying process.
Trained Team
Not only are we water remediation experts but we are also a licensed General Contractor. This means that after we finish removing all damage we can put everything back together, truly making it, "Like it never even happened."
When storm damage strikes your commercial or residential property call the experts atSERVPRO of Framingham.
Give nurses you know a shout-out and thank them for their hard work.
National Nurses Day is observed annually on May 6th. On this day, we raise awareness of all nurses. We want to acknowledge the vital role nurses play in society especially during the pandemic.
National Nurses Week begins May 6th and ends on May 12th. Nurses play a vital part in our community each and every day, celebrating them during this time is just enough. There are some great ways to observe this day.
HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalNursesDay
You can recognize nurses everywhere.
Celebrate their dedication and commitment to their patients and their profession.
Tell someone about the excellent care you’ve received from a nurse.
All it takes is a simple ‘thank you.’
When you visit the doctor, make sure to follow the instructions they give you, especially follow-up care. You can ask questions, so they know when you need more information or are confused. Asking questions is always critical especially for your health.
Give nurses you know a shout-out and thank them for their hard work.
Use #NationalNursesDay to share a story and recognition on social media.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and get your home back to “Like it never even happened.”
Cinco de Mayo is Spanish for “fifth of May.” This is a day that many seem to enjoy, love, and celebrate.
Cinco de Mayo is Spanish for “fifth of May.” This is a day that many seem to enjoy, love, and celebrate. What does it truly mean?
Cinco De May’s deeply rooted history in the Franco-Mexican War influenced Mexican-Mexican American communities in the early years of the American Civil War. In the 1860s, these communities took up the banner of the Cinco De Mayo celebration as a way to commemorate the cause of freedom and democracy. In the United States, Americans celebrate Mexican-American heritage and pride annually on May 5th.
In the United States there are often displays of banners and events highlighting Mexican culture, music, and dancing. School districts may have special events to educate students about its historical significance. In the U.S. many celebrate with Mexican products and services with an emphasis on beverages, food, and music.
Share your Mexican heritage and use #CincodeMayo to post on social media.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and get your home back to “Like it never even happened.”
SERVPRO of Framingham celebrates The International Firefighters’ Day 2021
The (NFFF) National Fallen Firefighters Foundation Observes International Firefighters’ Day 2021.
The (NFFF) National Fallen Firefighters Foundation Observes International Firefighters’ Day 2021.
International Firefighters’ Day was established in 1999 to honor the lives of five firefighters who died in a wildfire in Victoria, Australia. It is also made to recognize the service and sacrifice that firefighters make daily.
This day of recognition is at the core of the NFFF. They help to honor and remember America’s fallen firefighters. They also assist their families in rebuilding their lives. They are incredible and essential for our community.
Firefighters are our family, friends, and co-workers at SERVPRO of Framingham. These special men and women respond to calls for help without hesitation. They take incredible care of the community. Please join us in thanking firefighters for their service as they work the front lines each and every day. Our communities are made stronger by the dedication of these firefighters.
We appreciate them today and every day. Thank you for all that you do in the community.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and get your home back to “Like it never even happened.”
The aftermath of even a small or partial-loss fire at your Framingham, MA, commercial property can have lingering effects. While the first concern may be the fire cleanup, the potential for further issues to occur should also be a top priority if the roof was damaged. As you wait for the roof repair to take place, leaving it exposed means opening the building up to potential problems.
Roof Damage Woes
Fire cleanup doesn’t happen overnight. Calling a fire damage and restoration expert that is Faster to Any Size Disaster is the first step in ensuring speedy and professional repairs. In the interim, whether the hole was caused by the fire, or firefighters had to create an opening for ventilation, it leaves the structure vulnerable to non-fire losses or worries:
Cost – The longer the roof is exposed, the higher the potential for further environmental damage that can quickly increase repair costs.
Vandalism – While it depends on the extent of the roof destruction, the gap could create an access point for vandals or thieves.
Pests – Animals and insects can easily find their way in through the smallest spaces.
Safety – If the damage isn’t severe, you may be able to continue operating out of the business structure, but that could mean a potential safety hazard for anyone in the building.
Temporary Covering
Although not a permanent fix, using a tarp is an ideal way to minimize secondary damage or other issues. An expert will properly affix boards and tarps to keep debris and precipitation from entering through the ruined areas. Regardless of the type of roof, they will have the know-how to securely seal off entry points and create an insulation barrier to help minimize costly repairs while determining whether the roof needs to be fixed or replaced.
While it's true that a fire can start anywhere in your home, the kitchen is one of the most common places. There are a lot of hazards in this room, so you need to be cautious when you're cooking on the stove or using the oven. A grease fire is one of the most concerning types of fires you could encounter at home. Extinguishing these fires is not the same as most kinds.
What Causes Grease Fires?
If you're like many people in Hopkinton, MA, you probably use your fair share of cooking oil on the stove. Whether it's frying up bacon or sausage for breakfast or grilling up something else delicious on the stove or griddle, you may frequently contend with grease. The common reasons a grease fire may start include:
Putting too much oil in the pan
Leaving the room while something is frying or grilling on the stove
Leaving panhandles away from the stove where other people can bump into them
Smother It Quickly
If a grease fire starts in the kitchen, don't panic. Your first job is to smother the flames and remove the fire's oxygen source. You can do this by grabbing a metal lid and covering the pan or burner.
Remove The Heat
You need to next kill the heat source. Turn off the stove or unplug the electric griddle.
Try Some Baking Soda
If the fire is still going, dump a liberal amount of baking soda on the flames. This should do enough to smother the flames and control the fire. It may require some fire cleanup, but you can control the damage.
What NOT To Do
Your first reaction to putting out a fire may be to dump water on the source. With grease, this won't work; it will only spread the flames. Never put water on these types of fires.
By following these pointers, you can stay away from these disasters.
Commercial toilets in Framingham, MA, are quite different from the ones in your home. Bathrooms meant for public use typically use a tank-less type of flushing system called a flushometer. These types tend to prevent a toilet overflow more effectively than toilets with a tank, but there are also some disadvantages.
Advantages And Disadvantages
The flushometer has some benefits compared to the tank type:
No time is required to fill a tank.
The high pressure of the water cleans the bowl better.
The force of the water dislodges all but the worst clogs.
One disadvantage is that it requires a larger than normal water supply line to function. Another is that it can spread germs more easily due to a phenomenon called a toilet plume. However, if they break and cause an overflow, you need a licensed commercial plumber to inspect the damage, fix the valve, and clean up any sewer water that spilled out.
How a Flushometer Works
In a typical toilet, when you depress the handle, gravity causes the tank to empty, pulling the water in the bowl down through suction. This works very well in most cases, but it does tend to clog if there is a lot of bulk in the bowl, potentially causing a toilet flood.
The flushometer system has no tank, helping to prevent toilet overflow. When the handle is depressed, it lifts a gasket that’s keeping the water pressure balanced inside the mechanism, creating a sudden, large pressure differential. This causes a blast of clean water to create the siphon necessary to flush the bowl.
How To Fix a Flushometer
If the flushometer won’t shut off, you’ll need to manually close the valve to the toilet. There will either be a slot for a flat-blade screwdriver or a hexagonal head that requires a wrench. However, there’s also a hexagonal head on top of the mechanism. Don’t open this while trying to stop a toilet from running! The shut-off valve will always face horizontal, not vertical. Once this is turned off, you have time to call a professional who can fix the mechanism.
The flushometer system is very low maintenance and helps prevent a toilet overflow. Once you’ve learned how to shut off the water flow in an emergency, it should give you many years of trouble-free use.
If you find yourself in need of fire restoration to your home or business, give SERVPRO Framingham, MA a call.
Fires are one of the worst things that can happen to anyone. It is hard to prevent a fire since it can happen at any time. However, there are a few simple quick tricks that you can do to prepare for a fire should it come.
Install smoke alarms inside bedrooms and on all levels of your home.
You should test smoke alarms every month. If they’re not working check the batteries, if it still doesn’t work, get a new smoke detector.
You should talk with all family members about a fire escape plan. More importantly, you will want to practice the plan twice a year.
It is important to educate children about what smoke alarms sound like, but also what to do if they hear one.
Make sure to ensure that all household members know how to escape from every room of your home.
Make sure to establish a family emergency communications plan.
You want to make sure everyone knows how to call 9-1-1, especially children.
If you find yourself in need of fire restoration to your home or business, give SERVPRO Framingham, MA a call at (508) 370-4400, we respond faster to any size disaster.
If you find yourself in need of fire restoration to your home or business, give SERVPRO Framingham, MA
Fires can happen at any time, anywhere. It is one of those things no one can really prepare for, we can only understand what they are capable of doing and try to understand what to do if a fire happens.
However, it is great to know the basics of what to do if a fire starts for your own safety:
Know how to safely operate a fire extinguisher. You should have a few in your home or business office that are easily accessible.
GET OUT and STAY OUT. CALL 9-1-1 or your local emergency phone number. Do not go back in whatsoever.
If you are in a building with elevators, use the stairs. Leave all your things where they are and get out. Make sure you are far enough away from the building once you are outside.
If closed doors or handles are warm or smoke blocks your primary escape route, use the second way out. Do not open doors if they are warm or you can see the smoke.
If you have to escape through smoke, get low. You will want to make sure to go under the smoke to your exit. Close any doors behind you.
If smoke, heat, or flames are blocking your exit routes make sure to stay in the room with doors closed. If you are stuck in there, place a wet towel under the door and call the fire 9-1-1. In the meantime, open a window and wave a brightly colored cloth for help.
Don’t forget if you are a business owner and do not have an Emergency Readiness Plan, we suggest setting one up. It will help in times with this to ensure you have an emergency plan ready for your staff. We at SERVPRO Framingham, MA can help guide you and set it up.
If you find yourself in need of fire restoration to your home or business, give SERVPRO Framingham, MA a call at (508) 370-4400, we respond faster to any size disaster.
Commercial Restoration for your business in Framingham, MA
If you find yourself in need of commercial restoration to your home or business, give SERVPRO of Framingham, MA a call.
Commercial cleaning and restoration can be very tough, stressful, and annoying. You need a company that provides excellent results while minimizing the disruption to your clients. The last thing that we want to do is take away business, we work efficiently to restore in a timely matter.
When the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services, SERVPRO of Framingham has the training and expertise to help make it “Like it never even happened.”
We can help any commercial business such as Small Office Buildings, Apartment Buildings, Restaurants, Hotel/Motels, Small Retail Stores, Manufacturing & Industrial, and Government/Military. No matter if you need water restoration, fire restoration, mold remediation, or storm damage clean up you can count on SERVPRO of Framingham, MA
We are available 24 hours a day to get your Framingham business back up and running. When the dirt, odor, and moisture challenges go beyond the scope of your regular janitorial staff, you need SERVPRO of Framingham.
If you find yourself in need of commercial restoration to your home or business, give SERVPRO of Framingham, MA a call at (508) 370-4400, we respond faster to any size disaster.
Tips to Get Your Home Ready for Spring in Framingham, Ma
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and get your home back to “Like it never even happened."
Now that it is springtime, there are things that you should do in order to make your home ready for the spring season. A lot of these are fairly simple and should happen at least yearly.
Check your gutters: Remove as much debris as you can. Make sure to wear gloves! You can also remove any leftover junk with a garden hose.
Scrub all the walls: It is the perfect time to really take the time to clean all the walls in the bathroom, kitchen, bedrooms, and living areas. You can do this by using a sponge or brush and mild soap and water. Make sure to clean baseboards and outlets.
Replace all filters including water, range hood, and air vent filters. You should replace these filters every 3-6 months. Add it to your monthly calendar on your phone so you can get reminders.
Empty your dryer vent out: A clogged dryer vent can be a fire hazard. It is fairly easy to empty out the lint in there. If you aren’t ask a friend for help.
Keep allergens away: Keep dust, mold, and pollen by decluttering your home; this can be a huge lifesaver especially if you have allergies. You might also want to check pipes for leaks.
Test smoke alarms: You will want to test smoke alarms and Carbon Monoxide detectors. You will also want to change out batteries. It only takes a few minutes but can save your family's lives.
SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and get your home back to “Like it never even happened,” when a disaster might strike.
There are plenty of safety tips you should take if flooding is happening in your area. Be prepared as best as you can.
Flooding is one of those topics that can be hard to prepare and understand. However, it is one of the most important topics that should be taken seriously. Flooding is a common hazard in Massachusetts. Some floods develop slowly, while others can happen quickly. Flash floods can occur within minutes or hours after a storm.
There are so many different terms when it comes to flooding for you to be aware of.
Flooding or flash flooding: Pay attention to changing weather and flood conditions. You will want to be prepared to move to higher ground.
Flood Warning: Flooding is happening or may be close by. You will want to avoid low-lying areas.
Flash Flood Warning: A flash flood is occurring or about to occur. You should seek higher ground immediately.
There are plenty of safety tips you should take if flooding is happening in your area. Be prepared as best as you can.
If you find yourself in need of water damage to your home or business, give SERVPRO Framingham a call at (508) 370-4400, we respond faster to any size disaster.
Thanks to our SERVPRO of Framingham administrative staff
Administrative Professionals Day is a special day that recognizes assistants and office staff. After all, they are the backbone of our company.
Did you know that April 21st was Administrative Professionals Day? Though we did not post about this special day, we still did celebrate and would like to share more about it with our local community.
Administrative Professionals Day is a special day that recognizes assistants and office staff. After all, they are the backbone of our company. The purpose of this day is to show appreciation for administrative teammates.
Even though this day has ended we always strive to show appreciation to our customers and staff whenever possible. It is important to recognize them throughout the year and not just one day a year. There are fairly simple ways to recognize a team member: coffee, donuts, flowers, gift items, a day off, or having a special lunch hour for them.
"Those who are happiest are those who do the most for others." -Booker T. Washington
Thank you to our administrative staff at SERVPRO of Framingham each and every day. Here at SERVPRO, we have the certified professionals you need to help restore your home or business. Contact us today at (508) 370-4400 for more information.
If you find yourself in need of restoration for your home or business, give SERVPRO of Framingham a call at (508) 370-4400.
Spring is finally here in Framingham, Ma. You know the saying “April Showers bring May Flowers.” It’s spring storm season for us and that means there are some simple things you can do to prepare for storms before they happen.
Here are a few tips to consider:
Trim trees: Make sure you remove dead branches that could end up being dangerous in a severe storm. Check to see if they are hovering near the power source to your home. The last thing you want is a large tree, or branch, to fall on your house.
Ensure sump pumps are working: Spring runoff and rainstorms can all result in flooded basements.
Secure backyard items: If you’ve received a warning that a severe storm is approaching, move items such as patio furniture, lawn chairs, propane tanks, grills, flags and poles, bird feeders, and hanging plants to your shed, or garage.
Be ready for power outages:
Think ahead: Make ice, lots of it. Fill up cans, bottles, or bags full of ice so you can ensure you have some whenever possible but also to ensure your food can stay cold for a little while.
Use a cooler: Add food that you want access to in the cooler so you can keep other immediate items in the fridge without constantly opening the fridge.
Extras: It’s always a good idea to have extra batteries, drinking water, and a good first-aid kit readily accessible.
If you find yourself in need of restoration for your home or business, give SERVPRO of Framingham a call at (508) 370-4400, we respond faster to any size disaster.
When your Framingham, MA commercial or residential property is damaged by water, you want to be sure to select the right mitigation professionals to handle the cleanup. SERVPRO of Framingham have been serving Boston Metrowestern communities for over for over 10 years. We have built a reputation of trust in our local community by providing the absolute best in emergency water mitigation. Here are some of the ways we have done so:
Our Disaster Remediation Teams are uniformed franchise professionals who are punctual, and courteous
Our entire staff provides clear, concise communication throughout the entire job process
Our certified technicians follow industry guidelines to properly mitigate and restore damage to the property
We use state-of-the-art instruments and tools for inspection, detection, extraction, drying and dehumidification
We have teams on call 24 hours a day, every day of the year, including holidays.
There is no need to manage multiple contractors, timelines, or invoices. SERVPRO of Framingham is your one-stop remediation to rebuild shop.
SERVPRO of Framingham is here to help our community by offering the best water remediation experience in the industry. We will be by your side every step of the way after disaster strikes. Call (508) 370-4400 for help with any emergency and will make it, "Like it never even happened."
SERVPRO of Framingham is the trusted choice for insurance professionals, property managers and real estate professionals for water cleanup and restoration in Boston Metrowest area. This trust has been built based on quality, honesty, and timely response. For over 10 years, SERVPRO of Framingham has proven we can deliver at the highest level when it comes to emergency restoration.
Whether from a flood, a broken appliance, burst pipe or expired utility, SERVPRO of Framingham process for water damage mitigation is unparalleled and will ensure your commercial property is taken care of correctly.
Inspection: Our certified Disaster Remediation Technicians will inspect affected areas to determine the extent of water damage and will review their findings with the property manager.
Emergency Services: We have teams on call 24 hours a day, every day of the year, including holidays. We will be onsite within hours of your call to us.
Profession Service: Our teams will take every necessary precaution to protect commercial property and its contents from further damage.
Monitoring: Our teams will monitor the drying process to ensure your commercial property and its contents are completely dried according to industry standards. They will provide regular updates and will be in consistent communications with you throughout the entire process.
When water damage strikes your commercial property it is critical to not only clean the mess, but also, fix the root cause. The Disaster Remediation Teams atSERVPRO of Framingham are here to help. Contact the water remediation experts of SERVPRO of Framingham at (508) 370-4400! We have the resources to make it, "Like it never even happened."
Identifying The Source Of Water Damage Requires Professionals
It can be frustrating how far water can travel from where the actual leak has occurred. Unless the leak is discovered from an appliance or an entryway (window, door) it can be very difficult to trace the water damage back to the source. Even more so, when water damage occurs in multiple-units, like condominiums, townhomes or apartment buildings, finding the source can be almost impossible to the untrained eye. That is why you need the help of a certified professionalto find the source of the water damage and to determine the best restoration solution.
When dealing with water damage in multi-unit housing every apartment is typically plumbed separately, yet shares walls, ceilings, and floors with other living spaces. Responding only to the complaint of one tenant may very well leave a ticking time bomb that will eventually spread throughout the building.
Professionals Know How To Follow The Migration Of Water
Water is often characterized as moving along the path of least resistance. Unfortunately, this does not always hold true as a number of other factors weigh in. For example, if water runs along the outside of a pipe, think condensation on a cold water supply pipe parallel to the floor in a warm, damp basement, some water will drip in a line along the expanse of the pipe to the floor. Instead of just one wet spot below the pipe, there will be many damp areas, tracing on the floor over the length of the pipe. If, on the other hand, the cold pipe is perpendicular to the floor, the condensation will tend to run down that pipe, depositing in a circle around the bottom. Other examples can result in even more varied answers.
Since water follows pathways that are not as straightforward as expected, the Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham master basic moisture detection strategies during the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC) training. They use detectors with and without prongs to locate the presence of moisture, helping us trace the outline of a water incursion. For added data, we also employ moisture meters to determine levels of water absorbed by permeable materials. The moisture levels become baselines for our Applied Structural Drying (ASD) technicians when we move on to determining drying goals after we remove all standing water.
When water damage strikes your commercial property it is critical to not only clean the mess, but also, fix the root cause. The Disaster Remediation Teams atSERVPRO of Framingham are here to help. Contact the water remediation experts of SERVPRO of Framingham at (508) 370-4400! We have the resources to make it, "Like it never even happened."
When water damage strikes your Hopkinton, MAcommercial or residential property you want to know that the all traces of water and moisture have been completely removed. That is why hiring trained professionals is the right choice to make.
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framinghampursue advanced training from the IICRC in Building Moisture Thermography. This higher-level course teaches technicians to use the elements of infrared radiation, thermodynamics, and psychrometry, the science of drying, in an interdisciplinary approach. Developing competence in how these elements work together supports our ability to locate hidden water and moisture when inspecting and restoring building envelopes. Interpretation of the temperature fluctuations is an art, as well as a science and, it helps when tracking down where the water might have moved.
Does It Matter
One of the risk factors to consider is the possibility of mold growth if all water is not removed from every space within a building. Mold spores need only a small amount of moisture to “germinate” and begin their growth curve. No light is required so that mold colonies can breed in between walls, above ceilings, and in any building cavity. The potential of mold damage when wood framing, drywall, ceiling tiles, and other building materials are just slightly wet is real.
Professionals Get Water Out of Confined Spaces
Our Teams have access to a variety of professional grade equipment. Portable extractors are the most versatile and solve a majority of water disasters. For smaller, tighter less accessible areas our Teams have will use mobile units, which can be carried like a backpack and are capable of extracting up to 12 gallons of water at a time. When dealing with large scale disasters we have powerful truck-mounted extractors that not only remove tons of water but also allow us to transport the water offsite, ensuring that it dose not migrate back into the property.
When extractors cannot reach the damaged area our Teams have been trained in minimally evasive techniques to solve those difficult situations;
Drilling holes in drywall
Cutting out or removing sections of drywall or paneling
Taking down ceiling tiles to gain access to a building cavity
SERVPRO of Framingham is here to help. We have teams of inquisitive technicians ready to put their training and experience to the test when on the lookout for hidden water. Contact the water remediation experts of SERVPRO of Framingham at (508) 370-4400! We have the resources to make it, "Like it never even happened."
Fire damage can cause significant problems for your Framingham, MA business. from the devastating consequences of a fire disaster. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), the top five causes of fires in commercial facilities are issues with cooking equipment, heating units, electrical/lighting issues, smoking materials, and intentional fire starting.
SERVPRO of Framinghamunderstands the function, size, and complexity differences in commercial fire losses. We provide commercial restoration services for fire-damaged structures, affected tenants, and contents. This includes coordinating services among property owners and/or property managers, carrier representatives, and associated professionals engaged in the decision making process. Our Disaster Remediation Teams are efficient at receiving timely approval of workflow through decision-makers throughout the entire project lifecycle. Equally important is having access to and using the correct tools and equipment required to successfully complete a commercial remediation project. Commercial losses can require large-format desiccant dehumidifiers, portable dehumidifiers, and various heating and cooling units. This type of equipment is used to focus on temperature and humidity control. In addition, it may be necessary to use various extraction units, generators, power distribution devices, lighting, air movers, and air filtration devices. Additionally, the use of monitoring, cleaning, and deodorization devices are critical due to the size and scope of most commercial remediation projects. In some cases, aerial work platforms, scaffolding, and material handling equipment may be required.
Regardless of the size and scope of your commercial remediation needs, the Disaster Remediation Teams atSERVPRO of Framingham are here to help. Contact the commercial remediation experts of SERVPRO of Framingham at (508) 370-4400! We have the resources to make it, "Like it never even happened."
A pipe bursting in the bathroom of your Hopkinton, MAretail shop can have a significant impact on your business. If the pipe burst outside regular business hours, it may be some time before you become aware of the issue. It is crucial to work immediately to mitigate as much damage as possible.
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham move quickly to restore your commercial property after water damage occurs. If it is safe to do so you should shut off the water main and begin to mop up whatever water you can. Mopping is especially essential to minimize the risk of secondary damage, such as loose floor tiles or hazardous mold infestations.
Our Disaster Remediation Teams are on call 24 hours a day, every day of the year, including holidays so we are truly, "Faster To Any Size Disaster"! Once onsite our project managers will assesses the damage to the structure, materials, and merchandise within your store. Then, they will develop a plan for fast and effective removal of all excess moisture from within the establishment while ensuring minimal disruption to your normal business operations.
Our certified technicians will remove the merchandise from impacted areas to ensure that excess moisture and humidity do not damage items that sustained no initial damage. These undamaged items should be kept in a safe, dry place. Damaged items should be inventoried with details for insurance purposes before removal.
They will place high-velocity air movers and industrial-strength dehumidifiers throughout the impacted area. These tools pull excess moisture from the materials, contents, and air within the room. The dehumidifying process stops when RH levels are under 60 percent, and the contents are dry. The water damaged areas will and the relative humidity (RH) will be restored to preloss conditions.
Regardless of the size and scope of your commercial remediation needs, the Disaster Remediation Teams atSERVPRO of Framingham are here to help. Contact the commercial remediation experts of SERVPRO of Framingham at (508) 370-4400! We have the resources to make it, "Like it never even happened."
When disaster strikes your Hopkinton, MA commercial or residential property knowing who to call for help is the critical first step and with multiple options to choose from, it may seem overwhelming. Here are the top 5 factors you should consider when making decision.
40+ Years Experience
SERVPRO first opened its doors in 1967. During that time, SERVPRO Corporate has compiled a vast database of information including; on the various types of disasters and their causes, the best remediation tools and techniques, and the most successful mitigation plans. SERVPRO utilizes this compilation of data as the foundation for their proprietary in-house Technician Training Program.
Immediate Response
Disasters do not wait for regular business hours and neither do we. The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framinghamare on call 24 hours a day, every day of the year, including holidays! When you call us you can expect an immediate response time, day or night.
Certified Technicians
Not only are our technicians required to regularly attend the SERVPRO Corporate Training program, they are also required to receive industry certifications. IICRC industry certifications includes the following: IICRC training, Employee Certification training, E-Learning programs, and Continuing Education Classes.
Equipped To Handle Any Size Loss
SERVPRO of Framingham is ready to handle your loss whether it is a water loss caused from a leaky dishwasher in your home, or water loss in your commercial business caused by fire sprinklers throughout the entire structure. We have a 5,000 square foot warehouse filled with professional grade remediation equipment and a fleet of vehicles ready to roll out on a moments notice.
One Stop Shop
There is no need to manage multiple contractors, timelines, or invoices. SERVPRO of Framingham is your one-stop remediation to rebuild shop. You will have a single point of contact throughout the entire project lifecycle. Our Disaster Remediation Teams work hand-in-hand with our Rebuild Teams to ensure a seamless transition from remediation to rebuild.
SERVPRO of Framingham is here to help our community by offering the best water remediation experience in the industry. We will be by your side every step of the way after disaster strikes. Call (508) 370-4400 for help with any emergency and will make it, "Like it never even happened."
When a fire starts in your Holliston, Ma commercial or residential property time is not on your side. You only have so much time to leave the premises and call for help. Every second counts. If you encounter a fire, you will be thankful to have a fire alarm that gives you a head start. Your property should be outfitted with multiple alarms so that you are made immediately aware of the situation, no matter where the fire begins.
How Many Alarms Do You Need
There is no exact number of alarms to have on hand, as everything depends on the size and layout of your property. In general, it is recommended that you have at least one alarm on each floor. You are also advised to place alarms inside or nearby the following rooms:
Residential
Bedrooms
Basements
Garages
Attics
Commercial
Inside office rooms
In hallways
On every floor
It is not possible to have too many alarms, and it is far better to ensure that your property is highly protected in order to avoid the devastating effects of fire. The sooner you know about a fire, the more quickly you can get assistance and avoid severe fire damage.
What Should I Do After a Fire
Though alarms are an important source of protection, they cannot always keep your property free of fire or smoke damage. If your commercial or residential property is severely damaged after a fire, then a professional fire restoration team can make repairs and even remove smoke smells from your carpet.
Having smoke and fire alarms is necessary, but the reality is, even after doing all of these things, a fire can still happen. If it does call the experts at SERVPRO of Framingham at (508) 370-4400. We will make it, "Like it never even happened."
You probably remember being in school and going through periodic drills to get ready for the possibility of afire. The information and practice are valuable. As a business leader, holding fire drills are a good idea. You hope to never experience a fire in your Framingham, Ma, workplace, but the knowledge and preparation can give you peace of mind.
Map Out The Building
Regardless of the size of your office, you and everyone at work need to be aware of the layout and design. Study the map and determine the most effective and the safest exit routes from every floor and from every portion of the facility during an emergency.
Assign Roles
A fire drill should definitely not be a free-for-all where everyone rushes out of the building without order. There are critical responsibilities that people should play in this scenario. These include the following:
Team lead or floor warden, who is responsible for making sure everyone gets out safely
Communication specialist, who can teach employees about the drill steps and what to do in an emergency
Design specialist, who can come up with the physical or digital representation of the escape route and meeting place.
Talk About It
Before having a drill, it is essential that all employees in the organization understand what will take place and what they will do once it begins. In groups meetings or in a company gathering, discuss the critical components of your drill, including where to meet and the importance of leaving promptly but calmly.
Practice
Have a drill at least once a year. This will benefit newer employees and refresh the memories of more seasoned workers. Afterward, discuss with the group what went well and what improvements are necessary.
Practice makes perfect, but even after doing all of these things, a fire can still happen. If it does call the experts at SERVPRO of Framingham at (508) 370-4400. We will make it, "Like it never even happened."
Cleaning your dryer vents isn’t just a nice thing-to-do as a homeowner in Hopkinton, Ma. It is one of the most important house projects that could save you from a potential dryer fire. In return, the appliance works efficiently and serves you for a long time without breaking. Warning signs that tell it’s time to clean the dryer vent include:
Clothes take longer to dry
Burning smell
Vent trap doesn’t open correctly
Clothes Take Longer to Dry
When a dryer vent is clogged, clothes take longer to dry as hot air and moisture cannot leave the drum freely. That translates to 2 or more cycles on top of your regular rounds for the clothes dry. This prolonged usage puts more wear and tear on the appliance and therefore cutting its lifetime by almost half.
Burning Smell
If you detect a burning smell from your dryer, please turn it off immediately. That could be a clog in the lint trap or the drum, and you are looking at a possible lint fire. Hot clothes and longer drying time accompany this symptom, and the best cause of action is to clear the clog before further usage. It is also a good idea to inform everyone who uses the machine about this issue.
The Vent Trap Doesn’t Open Properly
A stuck vent trap is also another sign of lint build-up. It could be the result of overdue maintenance, and it will kill your appliance eventually. However, this is an extreme case. So, you might want to check for debris or lint around the dryer hose to catch this problem before it causes a nasty clog or a lint fire. Don’t wait till the appliance to malfunction so you can start troubleshooting. Regular maintenance will save you money and prevent a lint fire in the long run.
Safety first, but even after taking all of these necessary precautions a fire can still happen. If it does call the experts at SERVPRO of Framingham at (508) 370-4400. We will make it, "Like it never even happened."
Sprinkler systems are required to be installed in commercial and industrial buildings. During a fire disaster they save lives and help to limit the damage to the structure. Unfortunately they also cause significant water damage when putting out the fire or should the system malfunction.
When working properly, they are activated by heat. When the heat from a fire reaches between 135 and 165 degrees the mercury liquid filled bulb bursts allowing the water to flow through the sprinkler head. Sometimes the bulb or head malfunctions, burst allowing the flow of water through the system even without a fire raging. Failures occur with sprinkler heads commonly when the line freezes from cold weather or the head gets hit or pulled on by something.
The Disaster Remediation Teams atSERVPRO of Framingham are here to help. Whatever the cause of your sprinkler system activating, contact the commercial remediation experts of SERVPRO of Framingham at (508) 370-4400! We will make it, "Like it never even happened."
Your primary sump pump should not be treated any different than any other appliance in your home - without power, it is completely worthless. As a safeguard, invest in a high quality battery back-up sump pump. A battery kept continually charged by the backup system operates a separate pump linked to the discharge pipe, providing you hours of protection until power is restored. Some backup pumps even monitor the condition of the battery and alert you when it needs to be replaced.
Frozen Discharge Pipe
If the discharge pipe is not installed and pitched properly, water will collect. During cold Framingham, Mawinters this water blockage could eventually freeze, causing the sump pump to fail.
Switch Stuck In Place
There are several different types of sump float switches. Vertical and tethered floats are the most common. Vertical floats generally work the best as tethered floats are known for getting stuck on the side walls of the sump pit (resulting in a flooded basement).
Over-worked / Under-Powered Sump Pump
Not all pumps are created equal. Make sure you install the correct horsepower pump capable of keeping up with the flow of water in your commercial or residential property.
Old Age
It is generally recommended that sump pumps should be replaced every five to seven years in order to be reasonably safe. Don’t wait until it’s too late!
If you experience a sewage backup the first step, if it is safe to do so, is to turn off the Water Main. Then call the water remediation experts of SERVPRO of Framinghamto remediate the water damage. and to determine the cause of the burst pipe at (508) 370-4400. We will make it, "Like it never even happened."
Disaster can strike your Sudbury, Ma commercial or residential property at any time. When it does, immediate action is necessary.
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framinghamare on call 24 hours a day, every day of the year, including holidays! When you call us you can expect a fast response and quick action. Our main facility is strategically located right off of 495. This allows our teams to be faster to any size disaster in the Metro-west area. When disaster strikes an immediate response and action will;
Minimize the damage
Reduce cleaning and remediation costs
Reduce the remediation timeline
SERVPRO of Framingham is here to help our community and will be by your side every step of the way after a crisis damages your Sudbury, Ma commercial or residential property. Call (508) 370-4400 for help with any emergency and will make it, "Like it never even happened."
All of us at SERVPRO of Framinghamunderstand that getting the job done is only part of the job. When our technicians arrive on site they provide our clients with a vital first impression of our organization which is why we place very high expectations on our technicians. We expect them to take pride in their work, their appearance and the relationships that they build with our customers.
The SERVPRO of Framingham Difference
When you contact for SERVPRO of Framinghamfor remediation services, the certifiedtechnicians of our Disaster Remediation Teams will arrive promptly ready to take action. They will be dressed professionally in SERVPRO branded gear and will be driving our SERVPRO branded vehicles. Our project managers have an open line of communication with our customers and will be the single point of contact throughout the project lifecycle. They clearly set expectations and keep our clients informed explaining the process and answering any questions. When the project is complete we perform a final walkthrough with our customers to make sure they are satisfied with the results. We may even ask for any recommendations as to how we can improve our service for future customers.
We are always striving to improve!
So when you contact , you can relax knowing that great customer service is our top priority! We value our customers and our hope is to always make every impression a great one!
SERVPRO of Framingham is here to help our community by offering the best customer experience in the remediation industry. We will be by your side every step of the way after disaster strikes. Call (508) 370-4400 for help with any emergency and will make it, "Like it never even happened."
We strive to provide every customer with an unparalleled recovery experience for their Massachusetts commercial or residential property. While we have specialists in every niche of the industry, our primary focus is continuing to be a leading company providing restoration services to residents of the Commonwealth. Our Disaster Remediation Teams will help steer you through every phase of your property's recovery, from the initial damage inspection and mitigation work through reconstruction and cleanup.
Fire
Because We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster, many Framingham, Ma residents have looked to our expertise and training to help restore their properties after fire loss incidents occur. These situations can be devastating for our clients, so it is vital to work quickly on mitigating loss and reducing the physical hazards that threaten pose risk to our customers.
No twofire emergencies is ever precisely the same, and because of this, ourcertifiedDisaster Remediation Technicians must continue their education into modern practices, equipment, and products. We have accreditations and endorsements through the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) in Fire & Smoke Restoration, Odor Control, and Carpet Cleaning. Many of our fire recovery specialists have more than one of these certifications to make our efforts more efficient and to help complete jobs on time and under budget.
We know that some fires can take a heavy toll on the structure of your property and we have construction experts on site to help from small repairs through full-scale reconstruction and renovation. We are a one-stop shop for fire recovery, offering effective mitigation services like soot and smoke removal, deodorization, and fire debris cleanup which seamlessly transitions to reconstruction and repair.
SERVPRO of Framingham is here to help our community by offering the best fire remediation experience in the industry. We will be by your side every step of the way after disaster strikes. Call (508) 370-4400 for help with any emergency and will make it, "Like it never even happened."
While we have specialists in every domain of the remediation industry, our primary focus is continuing to be premiere restoration services company in the Ashland, Ma area. Our Disaster Remediation Teams of certified SERVPRO professionals can help steer our clients through every phase of recovery; from the initial damage inspection and mitigation work through reconstruction and cleanup.
Water
Especially with larger commercial properties, water damage in Massachusetts structures can happen from numerous sources and can create a hazardous situation for customers and employees alike. Preparing for all of these potential outcomes could be impossible, but protecting your property and its contents during these emergencies does not have to be. The entire SERVPRO of Framingham staff is prepared to handle even the most complex water loss incident. This preparedness includes independent, third party certification - IICRC-Certified as Water Restoration Technicians (WRT). Our technicians are structural drying specialists, able to both assess the damage to your Ashland, Ma property quickly and implement the right tools and techniques to overcome saturation and water exposure. Many of our Water Restoration Technicians also have secondary accreditations from the IICRC for Applied Structural Drying to stay attuned to the latest practices, equipment, and products involved in moisture removal.
SERVPRO of Framingham is here to help our community by offering the best water remediation experience in the industry. We will be by your side every step of the way after disaster strikes. Call (508) 370-4400 for help with any emergency and will make it, "Like it never even happened."
When winter comes around in Massachusetts, we can expect lots of snow and cold weather which can lead to frozen pipes and icy driveways. While the snow is beautiful to look at and a great reason to cozy up, it can be dangerous to your home.
This week, NWS and forecasters have indicated that the snow totals will reach higher than four inches, and a winter weather advisory exists now for tonight through the evening hours for all of CT, RI and MA west of I-95. Totals are expected to be 3-5 inches (with the 5 inches in the Berkshires and higher terrain of Worcester County). Elsewhere in MA, the totals will be closer to 1-2 inches with a trace of snow on the mid-Cape and the islands.
This change reflects the latest models which anticipate the secondary low pressure system not departing as quickly as initially thought. On Thursday, another storm coming from Utah, NM, AZ region, will take a more southerly route than this current storm. It will miss us but drag down some very cold air. By Friday, wind chills will be in the double digits below zero! The coldest air of the season by a longshot!
With this snow storm on the way, now is a good time to look over winter safety procedures with your family to prepare for any circumstance that may come your way. The storms can make driving and walking extremely hazardous, so it is in everyone’s best interest to listen to the radio for the latest information for your area.
Tips to keep safe during this weather:
Stay indoors and dress warmly
Eat regularly, because food gives energy to give the body its own heat
Drink water to stay hydrated when inside
Wear thick and layered clothing and protective gear against the cold if you go outside to shovel or do anything else
Keep the gas tank full
Avoid driving
Check on neighbors to make sure they are okay
Every snowstorm instance is different, but it is important to keep safety tips in mind for assured protection in any situation.
When water damage strikes your Holliston, Ma residential or commercial property it is important to act quickly to mitigate the damage and cost of recovery. Sometimes water damage occur slowly over a long period of time, going unnoticed, destroying the structural integrity of your property. That is why calling water remediation experts at SERVPRO of Framingham is the right choice!
Our Disaster Remediation teams are on call 24 hours a day, every day of the year, including holidays allowing us to respond to your emergency faster than the competition. Water incidents in particular can cause a chain reaction of interrelated problems. These problems may include odor, microbial bacteria, fungi, or soiling of your possessions.
SERVPRO of Framingham technicians are thorough in their approach to water remediation. They will begin by thoroughly removing any visible standing water. Then they will completely access the affected area, identify any potential hidden sources of moisture and develop comprehensive drying plan for both the structure and its contents and they will monitor the results daily, making any necessary adjustments to ensure we deliver the best results in the quickest time possible.
SERVPRO of Framingham is here to help our community and will be by your side every step of the way after a crisis damages your Holliston, Ma commercial or residential property. Call (508) 370-4400 for help with any emergency and will make it, "Like it never even happened."
December is the season of giving, so we would like to share our community involvement this past holiday season! Our owner, David Kurzontkowski, is a proud member of the Ashland Lions Club, which is a service club organization which supports sight programs and provides services including vision screenings, eye banks and eyeglass recycling. This December, the Ashland Lions Club hosted a Christmas tree sale to benefit the club! They were able to sell out of Christmas trees by December 13th, and 100% of proceeds went back to the community and Lions Eye Research. David volunteered at the Christmas tree sale on December 6th, and was able to represent SERVPRO Team Kur! We love connecting with our community and making a positive impact in our area, besides just our SERVPRO work. With over 46,000 clubs and 1.35 million members, the Ashland Lions Club is the world's largest service club organization!
SERVPRO Team Kur also has many other community affiliations, including but not limited to the Metro West Chamber of Commerce, Newton/Needham Chamber of Commerce, American Bio-Recovery Association, and many more. A complete list can be found on our company profile under “Affiliations”!
The Baker Administration and the Department of Public Health developed a vaccine distribution timeline after extensive consultation with the Massachusetts Vaccine Advisory Group. This group is comprised of leaders from health care, the faith community, community organizations, local government, and others.
The timeline reflects several priorities: protecting our most vulnerable, maintaining health care system capacity, and addressing inequities in health care access and COVID-19 burden.
The current phased approach distribution of COVID-19 in MA is as follows:
Phase 2 Feb 2021 – Mar 2021
Adults 65+
Adults of any age with certain underlying medical conditions are at increased risk for severe illness from the virus that causes COVID-19. Severe illness from COVID-19 is defined as hospitalization, admission to the ICU, intubation or mechanical ventilation, or death.
Individuals with 2 co-morbid conditions and/or age 75+
Cancer
Chronic kidney disease
COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease)
Down Syndrome
Heart conditions, such as heart failure, coronary artery disease, or cardiomyopathies
Immunocompromised state (weakened immune system) from solid organ transplant
Obesity (body mass index [BMI] of 30 kg/m2 or higher but < 40 kg/m2)
Severe Obesity (BMI ≥ 40 kg/m2)
Pregnancy
Sickle cell disease
Smoking
Type 2 diabetes mellitusAdults of any age with the following conditions are at increased risk of severe illness from the virus that causes COVID-19:
Asthma (moderate-to-severe)
Cerebrovascular disease (affects blood vessels and blood supply to the brain)
Cystic fibrosis
Hypertension or high blood pressure
Immunocompromised state (weakened immune system) from blood or bone marrow transplant, immune deficiencies, HIV, use of corticosteroids, or use of other immune weakening medicines
Neurologic conditions, such as dementia
Liver disease
Overweight (BMI > 25 kg/m2, but < 30 kg/m2)
Pulmonary fibrosis (having damaged or scarred lung tissues)
Thalassemia (a type of blood disorder)
Type 1 diabetes mellitus
Other workers, including:
Early education, K-12, transit, grocery, utility, food and agriculture, restaurant and cafe workers;
Employees across the food, beverages, agriculture, consumer goods, retail, and foodservice sectors;
Meatpackers;
Sanitation, public works and public health workers, vaccine development workers, food pantry workers, Uber/Lyft/ride share services/pharmacy delivery drivers (under transit/transportation workers), workers in the passenger ground transportation industry (e.g. paratransit for people with Disabilities, food delivery, non-urgent medical transport);
Convenience store workers (under grocery workers);
Water and wastewater utility staff
Court system workers (judges, prosecutors, defense attorney, clerks), other than court officers who are listed under first responders
Phase 2 Vaccination Settings:
Most health care workers will be vaccinated at their place of employment
Individuals living and working in long term care will be vaccinated as part of the Federal Pharmacy Partnership Program
Vaccination for individuals in other congregate settings (e.g., group homes, shelters, corrections) will be coordinated by the management of those facilities
Many additional vaccination administration sites will be made available for other populations
It is critical for all of us to remain vigilant in our battle against COVID-19. COVID-19 remains a highly transmissible disease. Individuals should continue to follow these universal precautions:
We will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office While the administration continues to work with Federal and Local agencies to insure the safety and wellbeing of the residents of the Commonwealth during this ongoing pandemic and now manage the delivery of the much needed aid.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
The Baker Administration and the Department of Public Health developed a vaccine distribution timeline after extensive consultation with the Massachusetts Vaccine Advisory Group. This group is comprised of leaders from health care, the faith community, community organizations, local government, and others.
The timeline reflects several priorities: protecting our most vulnerable, maintaining health care system capacity, and addressing inequities in health care access and COVID-19 burden.
The current phased approach distribution of COVID-19 in MA is as follows:
Phase 1 Dec 2020 – Feb 2021
(Listed in order of priority)
Clinical and non-clinical health care workers doing direct and COVID-facing care - including:
COVID-19 testers, staff of test sites, urgent care centers, other clinics, school nurses, and public health nurses performing COVID-19 testing;
COVID-19 vaccinators and support staff for a COVID vaccination clinic including pharmacists, pharmacy interns, and pharmacy technicians, school nurses, and public health nurses supporting COVID-19 vaccination;
Medical Reserve Corps who are called up to vaccinate or other COVID facing direct care work;
COVID facing Hospice/palliative care professionals;
COVID facing laboratory staff;
COVID facing imaging professions;
Emergent employees (manufacturing COVID vaccine)
Sexual assault nurse examiners (SANE)
Primary care providers
Skilled nursing facility rapid response teams
Long term care facilities, rest homes and assisted living facilities
Emergency medical services, police, and fire - including:
All inter-facility transport workers, MedFlight staff, college/university campus police, 911 Dispatch employees
Federal law enforcement (including FBI, DEA, Coast Guard, federal court officers, U.S. Marshals Service, ATF, Federal Reserve Police, Homeland Security investigators)
Court officers
Harbormasters/Assistant Harbormasters
Congregate care settings
Corrections and shelters
Patients and staff of SUD treatment programs (if program is residential)
Patients and staff of Section 35 treatment programs
Adults with autism, intellectual disabilities, and severe behavioral challenges in residential programs
Home-based health care workers
PT/OT/SLP therapists who work with medically complex home students
Personal Care Attendants (PCAs)
Home Health, hospice, and home care agency staff performing visits in the home
Independent Nurses and Continuous Skilled Nursing staff performing visits in the home
Aging Service agency staff performing regular visits in the home
State Agency staff performing direct care in the home, including DCF Emergency Response Workers, DMH case managers and DDS care coordinators
Mental and behavioral health providers providing in home treatment (e.g., ACCS integrated team, PACT, CBHI, ABA, ESP)
Adult Foster Care and Group Adult Foster Care workers performing work in the home
Independent Therapists (physical therapists, occupational therapists, Speech & Language therapists) performing work in the home
Home-Based Respite and Individual/Family Support staff (DDS and DDS Self Directed)
Health care workers doing non-COVID-facing care - including:
Dentists/dental students, and dental hygienists (unless routinely working with COVID-19 positive or suspected patients such as Oral Surgeons covering the ER, in which case should be considered COVID-facing);
Medical and nursing students (unless routinely working with COVID-19 positive or suspected patients, in which case should be considered COVID-facing);
Inpatient and outpatient physical therapists (unless routinely working with COVID-19 positive or suspect patients, in which case should be considered COVID-facing);
Interpreters who work in hospitals (unless routinely working with COVID-19 positive or suspected patients, in which case should be considered COVID-facing);
Behavioral health clinicians not already covered in congregate care or direct care;
Non-COVID facing Laboratory workers;
Blood donation workers;
Organ donation procurement worker;
Hospice/palliative care professionals;
Non-COVID facing Imaging Professionals;
Dialysis center workers and patients;
Audiologists and speech and language pathologists (unless routinely working with COVID-19 positive or suspected patients, in which case should be considered COVID-facing);
Podiatrists (unless routinely working with COVID-19 positive or suspected patients, in which case should be considered COVID-facing)
Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) staff
Audiologists
SUD treatment program staff (if program is non-residential)
Individuals who do not come into contact with patients (e.g., back office, remote work, administrative staff who do not come into contact with patients, laboratory researchers who do not come into contact with patients) are not prioritized in Phase 1 and should be prioritized in Phase 2 or Phase 3 depending on each individual’s age, comorbidity status, or other worker category.
Phase 1 Vaccination Settings:
Most health care workers will be vaccinated at their place of employment
Individuals living and working in long term care will be vaccinated as part of the Federal Pharmacy Partnership Program
Vaccination for individuals in other congregate settings (e.g., group homes, shelters, corrections) will be coordinated by the management of those facilities
Many additional vaccination administration sites will be made available for other populations
It is critical for all of us to remain vigilant in our battle against COVID-19. COVID-19 remains a highly transmissible disease. Individuals should continue to follow these universal precautions:
We will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office While the administration continues to work with Federal and Local agencies to insure the safety and wellbeing of the residents of the Commonwealth during this ongoing pandemic and now manage the delivery of the much needed aid.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Latest COVID-19 Vaccine Update
Governor Charlie Baker has voiced his concerns regarding the potential increase in COVID-19 cases coming out of the holiday season. Baker said while it remained too early to draw definitive conclusions, it appeared the state is seeing a uptick in coronavirus hospitalizations stemming from the December holidays.
He also shared the change in the average age of COVID-19 patients. At the beginning of November the average age of patients receiving hospitalization for COVID-19 was 61. The average age has increased significantly. Currently it is 71 years old.
In light of this new data Governor Baker announced that people age 75 or older had been moved higher up in the order of the state's vaccination plan; and that first responders will begin receiving vaccination shots next week.
The 75-plus age group is now part of Phase 2, Group 1 in the rollout, joining people with two co-morbid conditions as those considered at high risk for complications from COVID-19. They had previously been listed later in Phase 2.
The change affects about 170,000 people and was recommended by the state's advisory board.
But the next set of people who will receive the vaccine are the state's roughly 45,000 first responders, the third of seven groups in Phase 1, who can begin to be vaccinated starting next Monday, Jan. 11.
"Police officers, firefighters EMTs and all first responders work in risky situations every day and this vaccine will protect them from COVID and the terrible illness that can come with it," Baker said during a press conference Monday.
There are three options for getting the vaccine, outlined on the state's first responder vaccination website:
Departments that meet certain criteria, like being able to vaccinate at least 200 first responders and store the doses on-site, can administer the shots themselves.
More than 60 sites have been stood up to give first responders the vaccine.
The state is working on developing four mass vaccination sites that can vaccinate up to 2,000 people per day, the details of which are still yet to be released. Baker said it's likely those sites would continue to be used after first responders are vaccinated.
It is critical for all of us to remain vigilant in our battle against COVID-19. COVID-19 remains a highly transmissible disease. Individuals should continue to follow these universal precautions:
We will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office While the administration continues to work with Federal and Local agencies to insure the safety and wellbeing of the residents of the Commonwealth during this ongoing pandemic and now manage the delivery of the much needed aid.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
At his press conference yesterday, Governor Charlie Baker reiterated the importance of remaining vigilant in following the Administration's guidelines to control the spread of COVID-19 and warned of the reality that the new, more contagious variant of the coronavirus has arrived in the state.
"I think most of us are working on the assumption that it's here," Baker said at a press conference at Baystate Medical Center in Springfield. "There would be no reason not to."
Currently, four states have confirmed the presence of this new strand of the COVID-19 virus:
New York
Colorado
California
Florida
The first U.S. case of the U.K. virus was detected by health officials in Colorado at the end of December in a man in his 20s. The most concerning aspect of this discovery was that this individual had no recent travel history.
Governor Baker shared the latest data on the spread of COVID-19 in Massachusetts:
The number of patients hospitalized for COVID-19 has increased again, to 2,339.
Of those hospitalized, 423 were listed as being in intensive care units
Of those in ICU 258 are intubated
He assured residents that Department of Public Health is working closely with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, to monitor the potential spread of this new variant into the Commonwealth.
He also took this time to remind residents that the rollback on coronavirus restrictions that took effect last month are still in affect until at least noon on Jan. 10. These include a crack down on gatherings and businesses and a requirement that hospitals halt most elective surgeries. The major impact of these rollbacks was a reduction in maximum capacity limits to 25% for the following:
Restaurants
Movie theaters and performance venues
Casinos
Offices
Places of worship
Retail businesses
Fitness centers and health clubs
Libraries
Golf facilities
Driving and flight schools
Arcades
Museums
Baker closed by reiterating the need for people to refrain from unnecessary social gatherings and follow guidelines set forth by the state. He said, "I'll go back to my little speech about how important it is for people to wear masks, maintain distance and recognize and appreciate that when you're not with the people you live with, you really ought to be very vigilant and careful and cautious about your physical engagement with other people," and that, "everything we can do to be vigilant is going to protect you and the members of your family from getting the virus or potentially giving it to someone else."
It is critical for all of us to remain vigilant in our battle against COVID-19. COVID-19 remains a highly transmissible disease. Individuals should continue to follow these universal precautions:
We will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office While the administration continues to work with Federal and Local agencies to insure the safety and wellbeing of the residents of the Commonwealth during this ongoing pandemic and now manage the delivery of the much needed aid.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
The holiday season has past but travel risks remain. It remains important that we all do our best to continue to travel as responsibly and safely as possible. The Baker Administration has set forth guidelines to follow for those of us where travel is unavoidable this Holiday Season. The following are FAQ to help residents of the Commonwealth better understand the requirements.
18. May travelers from places other than lower-risk states be exempt from the Travel Order requirements if traveling for the purpose of running errands like going to the grocery store or pharmacy?
Travelers are exempt from the requirements to fill out the Travel Form and self-quarantine or obtain a negative COVID-19 test result if their travel is limited to brief trips for purposes that the Commissioner has designated as Critical Life Activities. This allowance is limited to short, same-day trips across the border and back for the following purposes: grocery shopping, visits to pharmacies, attending appointments with licensed health care providers including medical, dental, or mental health,, visiting persons receiving treatment in hospitals or residing in congregate care settings, attendance at day care or children’s camps, attending religious services and funerals or memorial services, or attending to the care needs of family members.
During such trips, travelers are instructed to wear face-coverings, maintain social distance, practice good hygiene, and adhere to all other COVID-19 rules and restrictions.
19. I am a resident of RI attending a wedding in MA. Is the wedding considered a Commissioner’s Exemption under “religious services?”
The wedding service itself can be considered an exemption as a religious service. However, any reception or celebration which either precedes or follows the ceremony is not exempted and requires either quarantining or a 72 hour negative test result in order to attend.
20. Are parents, guardians, and children required to comply with the Travel Order if traveling for the purpose of managing shared custody of a child?
Children who travel into and out of Massachusetts because of transfers of custody or visitation between parents or guardians are exempt from the requirements of the order. Parents and guardians may rely on the transitory travel exemption, provided they comply with its limitations.
21. Other states’ travel restrictions include exemptions for trips that last less than 24 hours. Does Massachusetts have a similar exemption?
No, there is no specific exemption for trips that last less than 24 hours. Such short trips may be covered by exemptions like the ones for transitory travel or commuting for work or school. Travelers arriving from places other than lower-risk States must fill out the Travel Form and self-quarantine or obtain a negative test result if they do not meet one of these exemptions.
22. I am looking to be exempt from the requirement to self-quarantine by obtaining a negative COVID-19 test, but I am unable to get tested in the state that I am traveling from. What can I do?
A traveler who is required to quarantine may be released from the obligation to continue quarantining upon obtaining proof of a COVID-19 negative test, which was administered after the person’s arrival in Massachusetts. Travelers are required to quarantine immediately upon arrival in Massachusetts but may temporarily break quarantine to receive testing. Travelers must arrange for the test at their own expense and then are required to immediately continue quarantining until receiving a negative test result or the 10 days is complete.
23. After completing the Travel Form, do I need to keep a copy of my submission on-hand?
You should keep the documentation with you. If you obtained a negative COVID-19 test result to be exempt from the self-quarantine requirement you should be prepared to produce those results upon request.
24. I am traveling to Massachusetts from Puerto Rico (or some other United States Territory). How does the Travel Order apply to me?
For the purposes of the Travel Order the following U.S. jurisdictions are treated as States:
District of Columbia
Puerto Rico
USVI
Guam
Northern Mariana Islands
American Samoa
None of these areas is currently classified as a lower-risk State, so travelers arriving from any of these places are required to fill out the Travel Form and self-quarantine or be prepared to produce a negative COVID-19 test result if they do not fall within one of the enumerated exceptions.
23. My child attends day care or day camp in MA or RI. Does he or she need to test or quarantine each day?
No. Children who travel into or out of Massachusetts to attend day care or day camps are not required to comply with the Travel Order, and a parent or guardian transporting the child may rely on the transitory travel exemption, provided they comply with its limitations.
24. I live in Rhode Island and have a child or other family member receiving specialized medical care in MA. Can I visit them without quarantining or receiving a negative COVID test result?
Yes. See response question number 18 above, which explains the Commissioner’s limited exception for Critical Life Activities.
25. What are the Commissioner’s exceptions for Critical Life Activities?
grocery shopping
visits to pharmacies
attending appointments with licensed health care providers, including medical, dental, or mental health
visiting persons receiving treatment in hospitals or residing in congregate care facilities
attendance at day care or children’s camps
attending religious services, and funerals or memorial services
attending to the care needs of a family member
26. I am traveling into Massachusetts to participate in a clinical trial, am I exempt from the form and quarantine requirements?
Yes. Travelers coming to Massachusetts to participate in a clinical trial do not need to fill out the travel form and do not need to quarantine for 10 days.
Visitors are strongly urged to obtain a negative result before traveling to Massachusetts.
Testing for children, 10 years and younger, who are traveling with an adult from their household is not required.
Note:These requirements are in addition to Massachusetts requirements for wearing a mask or other face covering in both indoor and outdoor settings, any time you cannot socially distance and remain 6 feet from other people.
It is critical for all of us to remain vigilant in our battle against COVID-19. COVID-19 remains a highly transmissible disease. Individuals should continue to follow these universal precautions:
We will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office While the administration continues to work with Federal and Local agencies to insure the safety and wellbeing of the residents of the Commonwealth during this ongoing pandemic and now manage the delivery of the much needed aid.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Celebrating The Holidays Safely - Travel FAQ 10-17
As we continue to celebrate the holiday season it is important that we all do our best to do so as responsibly and safely as possible. The Baker Administration has set forth guidelines to follow for those of us where travel is unavoidable this Holiday Season. The following are FAQ to help residents of the Commonwealth better understand the requirements.
10. I am a MA resident and I provide Critical Infrastructure Services. I plan to go on vacation to Florida with my family. Do I need to quarantine when I return home from Florida?
Yes. Workers who travel from Massachusetts for personal or leisure reasons cannot rely on the Critical Infrastructure Worker exemption upon return. You must either quarantine or satisfy the testing rule. Your status as a Critical Infrastructure Worker does not allow you to break quarantine—even to do that specialized work—following travel for personal or leisure reasons.
Likewise, a Critical Infrastructure Worker who comes to Massachusetts for personal or leisure reasons cannot rely on the Critical Infrastructure Worker exemption upon arrival and must either quarantine or satisfy the testing rule.
11. I am dropping my child off at college in another state that is not considered lower risk. Do I need to quarantine when I come home?
It depends. If a parent/guardian/family member is entering a non-lower-risk state only to drop off the student and then immediately leaves the campus and the state, then they would meet the exemption of transitory travel. If they are staying overnight, then they are subject to the quarantine requirement upon return or must meet the testing rule.
12. I am entering Massachusetts but do not need to fill out the travel form because I meet an exemption. Do I need written documentation demonstrating that I meet the exemption criteria?
No.
13. I am visiting my relative in Massachusetts. I live in a non-lower-risk state. I plan to quarantine in my relative’s home. Does my relative need to quarantine as well?
No. You should stay in a separate room from your relative. However, your presence in your relative’s home does not require your relative to quarantine.
14. I am traveling to MA from a non-lower-risk state and do not meet an exemption criteria. I previously had COVID-19, I isolated pursuant to CDC guidelines and was released from isolation, do I still need to quarantine or meet the testing rule?
Yes. You must quarantine upon arrival or meet the testing rule.
If you took a test within 72 hours of your arrival and it came back positive due to your previous infection, you can use the positive test result plus a note from your doctor documenting your previous diagnosis and recovery to satisfy the testing rule.
15. Can international travelers get tested in another country before arriving?
Yes, provided that they take a molecular (PCR) SARS-CoV2 test on a sample obtained 72 hours or less prior to arrival in Massachusetts that is authorized by their Government.
16. I am a MA resident and went on vacation to a non-lower-risk state. Can I get a test in that state 72 hours before I come home to avoid the quarantine requirement?
Yes, provided the test meets the DPH specifications.
17. I am a MA resident and I am required to travel from MA to a non-lower-risk state at the direction of the Military. Do I need to fill out the form and quarantine when I come home?
No. Massachusetts residents who go out of state for military work and then return back to Massachusetts meet the military exemption.
Visitors are strongly urged to obtain a negative result before traveling to Massachusetts.
Testing for children, 10 years and younger, who are traveling with an adult from their household is not required.
Note:These requirements are in addition to Massachusetts requirements for wearing a mask or other face covering in both indoor and outdoor settings, any time you cannot socially distance and remain 6 feet from other people.
It is critical for all of us to remain vigilant in our battle against COVID-19. COVID-19 remains a highly transmissible disease. Individuals should continue to follow these universal precautions:
We will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office While the administration continues to work with Federal and Local agencies to insure the safety and wellbeing of the residents of the Commonwealth during this ongoing pandemic and now manage the delivery of the much needed aid.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
As we continue to celebrate the holiday season it is important that we all do our best to do so as responsibly and safely as possible. The Baker Administration has set forth guidelines to follow for those of us where travel is unavoidable this Holiday Season. The following are FAQ to help residents of the Commonwealth better understand the requirements.
1. Does this apply to students arriving from other States or foreign countries to attend college or university or boarding school?
Yes. The travel rule applies to all persons entering Massachusetts from any point of origin. A student who enters Massachusetts from any place not included on the list of COVID-19 lower-risk States must quarantine for 10 days if the student cannot provide proof of a negative test result that meets the standards of the 72-hour test rule.
2. Does the rule apply to parents, guardians and family members who are dropping their students off for boarding school or college/university?
Yes. If a parent/guardian/family member is entering Massachusetts only to drop off the student and then immediately leaves the campus and the state, then they would meet the exemption of transitory travel. If they are staying overnight, then they are subject to the requirements of the travel order.
Parents, guardians, and family members who do not meet the transitory travel exemption and are coming into Massachusetts from any place other than a COVID-19 lower-risk State are required to either receive a negative test within 72 hours of coming into Massachusetts or quarantine for 10 days.
3. Where can I report concerns I may have about non-compliance with the order?
4. If I develop symptoms but had a negative test what should I do?
The 72-hour test is a diagnostic test that is a point in time clinical measurement. If you develop symptoms, you may need to be tested again and may need medical attention.
5. I received a call that I should go into quarantine because I was exposed to someone who tested positive for COVID-19. My test came back negative 3 days ago. Do I still need to quarantine?
Yes. If you were exposed to someone known to be COVID-19 positive, then you are at increased risk of becoming positive and will need to quarantine for 10 days in your home state.
6. I had an antigen test which was negative, do I need to be tested again?
Yes, a negative antigen test must be confirmed by a negative result from an FDA EUA-approved molecular (PCR) SARS-CoV2 test on a sample obtained 72 hours or less prior to arrival in Massachusetts.
7. I plan to arrive in Massachusetts on, or before, July 31, 2020, do I need to fill out the travel form?
No
8. I am traveling with my children from a non-lower-risk State. I took a test and have my negative result. Do my kids need a test for COVID-19 as well?
It depends on each child’s age. If your child is 10 or younger, then the child does not need a test. If the child is 11 or older, then the child needs to be tested or will need to quarantine for 10 days, unless an exemption criteria applies.
9. I am a MA resident returning home after traveling to a state that is not considered lower risk. I have proof of a negative test result on a sample taken before my out-of-state travel, and because I was out of state only for 48 hours, I am returning within 72 hours of the time the sample was taken. Can I use my negative test results taken before I left to satisfy the 72-hour testing rule and avoid quarantine?
No, you must quarantine or obtain a new test upon return, unless you meet another exemption.
Visitors are strongly urged to obtain a negative result before traveling to Massachusetts.
Testing for children, 10 years and younger, who are traveling with an adult from their household is not required.
Note:These requirements are in addition to Massachusetts requirements for wearing a mask or other face covering in both indoor and outdoor settings, any time you cannot socially distance and remain 6 feet from other people.
It is critical for all of us to remain vigilant in our battle against COVID-19. COVID-19 remains a highly transmissible disease. Individuals should continue to follow these universal precautions:
We will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office While the administration continues to work with Federal and Local agencies to insure the safety and wellbeing of the residents of the Commonwealth during this ongoing pandemic and now manage the delivery of the much needed aid.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Celebrating The Holidays Safely - Quarantine Guidance
As we continue to celebrate the holiday season it is important that we all do our best to do so as responsibly and safely as possible. The Baker Administration has set forth guidelines to follow for those of us where travel is unavoidable this Holiday Season. Visitors are strongly urged to obtain a negative result before traveling to Massachusetts. The following highlights the administration's quarantine guidelines.
Testing As An Alternative To Quarantine
You do not need to quarantine for 10 days if you took a test for COVID-19 and have received a negative result. The specimen for the test must have been collected no longer than 72 hours before your arrival in Massachusetts, and the testing must be by a method approved by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health. Upon request, you must be able to demonstrate proof of the negative test result.
If you took a test prior to your arrival but have not received your negative result, you MUST quarantine until you receive the negative result. You may obtain a test at your own expense after your arrival in Massachusetts, but you MUST quarantine until you obtain a negative result. Use the COVID-19 testing map to find a site near you.
Information about approved molecular tests can be found in the Department of Public Health Guidance. A negative result from an antigen test must be confirmed by a negative result from an FDA EUA-approved molecular (PCR) SARS-CoV2 test, on a sample obtained 72 hours or less prior to arrival in Massachusetts. Serology tests will not be accepted.
How to Quarantine
Travelers who do not fall within the one of the three exemption categories detailed above:
coming from a lower-risk state,
meeting the 72-hour testing rule, or
meeting a limited circumstance-specific exemption, must quarantine beginning immediately upon arrival in Massachusetts.
The quarantine must continue for a period of 10 days unless the traveler leaves the State sooner.
The requirements for quarantining are as follows:
Travelers, along with their travel party, must separate from all other people for 10 days.
Travelers must not be in public or otherwise leave the identified quarters.
The living quarters must have a separate bathroom facility for each individual or family group. Access to a sink with soap, water, and paper towels is necessary. Cleaning supplies (e.g. household cleaning wipes, bleach) must be available in the bathroom.
Travelers must have a way to self-quarantine from other household members if a fever or other symptoms develop, in a separate room(s) with a door.
During the quarantine period, no one else should be in the living quarters other than those in the Travel Party, including hotel staff or delivery persons, as applicable.
Travelers are not to leave their living quarters except to receive urgent medical care.
Travelers should engage in proper hygiene including washing hands frequently using soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol may be used.
Travelers should remain aware of potential COVID like symptoms including: fever (temperature over 100.0 degrees); cough; difficulty breathing; shortness of breath; chills; muscle or body aches; runny nose or nasal congestion; new loss of taste or smell; headache; nausea; vomiting or diarrhea. Travelers with any of these symptoms should immediately contact a healthcare provider.
If no one in the Travel Party develops symptoms, then the travel party may continue with their normal activities after 10 days.
These requirements are in addition to Massachusetts requirements for wearing a mask or other face covering in both indoor and outdoor settings, any time you cannot socially distance and remain 6 feet from other people.
What Happens Visitors Develop COVID-19 Symptoms While In Massachusetts?
The 72-hour test is a diagnostic test that is a point in time clinical measurement. If you develop symptoms, you may need to be tested again and may need medical attention.
Leaving Prior To Completion Of Quarantine
A traveler may choose to leave Massachusetts before the completion of their 10-day quarantine.
Testing for children, 10 years and younger, who are traveling with an adult from their household is not required.
Note:These requirements are in addition to Massachusetts requirements for wearing a mask or other face covering in both indoor and outdoor settings, any time you cannot socially distance and remain 6 feet from other people.
It is critical for all of us to remain vigilant in our battle against COVID-19. COVID-19 remains a highly transmissible disease. Individuals should continue to follow these universal precautions:
We will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office While the administration continues to work with Federal and Local agencies to insure the safety and wellbeing of the residents of the Commonwealth during this ongoing pandemic and now manage the delivery of the much needed aid.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
As we continue to celebrate the holiday season it is important that we all do our best to do so as responsibly and safely as possible. The Baker Administration has set forth guidelines to follow for those of us where travel is unavoidable this Holiday Season. The following highlights those guidelines.
10-Day Quarantine Requirement
All individuals entering the State of Massachusetts must quarantine for 10 days from the date of arrival in the Commonwealth unless the individual meets one of the criteria below:
72-hour Testing Rule: The individual can produce, upon request, proof of a negative test result for COVID-19 from a test administered on a sample taken no longer than 72 hours before your arrival in Massachusetts.
Transitory travel: This includes people who are passing through Massachusetts and permits travelers to drive through the State or to connect to their airplane, bus or train, or to stop at a highway rest stop, but this exception extends only so long as is reasonably required for the traveler to complete their transit, make any necessary airplane, bus, or train connection, or make use of travel services such as at a highway rest stop.
Patients Seeking or Receiving Medical Treatment: Patients who are traveling to Massachusetts to seek or receive specialized medical care from a physician located in the Commonwealth and persons accompanying and providing needed support to the patient.
Military Personnel: Any person who is required to travel to Massachusetts at the order or directive of a Federal or State military authority.
Workers Providing Critical Infrastructure Services: Workers who enter Massachusetts to perform critical infrastructure functions as specified in Version 3.1 of the listing published by the Federal Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency are exempt from quarantine while they are commuting to or from or while at work. For the first 10-days after arrival, when the worker is not at work or commuting to work they must quarantine. Additional information may be found here: https://www.cisa.gov/publication/guidance-essential-critical-infrastructure-workforce. Workers who travel to or from Massachusetts for personal or leisure reasons cannot rely on this exemption.
Travelers visiting the state of Massachusetts may not need to quarantine for 10 days if they took a test for COVID-19 and have received a negative result. The specimen for the test must have been collected no longer than 72 hours before their arrival in Massachusetts, and the testing must be by a method approved by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health. Upon request, visitors must be able to demonstrate proof of the negative test result.
Visitors who took a test prior to their arrival but have not received a negative result, MUST quarantine until a negative result is received. Visitors may obtain a test at their own expense after arrival in Massachusetts, but they MUST quarantine until they obtain a negative result. Use the COVID-19 testing map to find a site near you.
Information about approved molecular tests can be found in the Department of Public Health Guidance. A negative result from an antigen test must be confirmed by a negative result from an FDA EUA-approved molecular (PCR) SARS-CoV2 test, on a sample obtained 72 hours or less prior to arrival in Massachusetts. Serology tests will not be accepted.
Visitors are strongly urged to obtain a negative result before traveling to Massachusetts.
Testing for children, 10 years and younger, who are traveling with an adult from their household is not required.
Note:These requirements are in addition to Massachusetts requirements for wearing a mask or other face covering in both indoor and outdoor settings, any time you cannot socially distance and remain 6 feet from other people.
It is critical for all of us to remain vigilant in our battle against COVID-19. COVID-19 remains a highly transmissible disease. Individuals should continue to follow these universal precautions:
We will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office While the administration continues to work with Federal and Local agencies to insure the safety and wellbeing of the residents of the Commonwealth during this ongoing pandemic and now manage the delivery of the much needed aid.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
As we enter the December holiday season, the Baker administration urge residents of the Commonwealth to follow the public health guidance to help keep themselves and those around them safe. This year the administration is asking residents to:
Limit in-person celebrations to household members only
Postpone or cancel travel this holiday season. If you do choose to travel, be aware of and comply with Massachusetts travel order requirements.
Follow the current state gathering size limits and sector-specific workplace safety standards.
Lower-Risk Celebrations And Activities
Limit in-person holiday gatherings to only people you live with.
Host a virtual holiday dinner with extended family or friends.
Prepare foods for family and neighbors and deliver them in a no-contact way.
Virtually attend your traditional holiday activities, such as a visit with Santa.
Consider virtual caroling or reciting. Provide a link to your virtual caroling to the people you want to sing to.
View holiday lights from your car with those you live with.
Higher-Risk Celebrations And Activities
Any time you gather with others outside of your household, you increase the risk of contracting or spreading illness. All residents are discouraged from gathering. Gatherings in Massachusetts are subject to gathering size limits.
You are risking your health and others health if you host or participate in any in-person festivities if you or anyone in your household:
has been diagnosed with COVID-19 and has not completed the isolation period;
has symptoms of COVID-19;
is waiting for COVID-19 viral test results;
may have been exposed to someone with COVID-19 in the last 14 days; or
is at increased risk of severe illness from COVID-19, such as older adults or those with certain medical conditions.
If in-person caroling or reciting, stay more than 25 feet from the people you are reciting or singing for and wear a mask. Remain outdoors while caroling.
If you visit Santa Claus in person, wear a mask, stay 6 feet from Santa and others while in line, and make a reservation for your visit where available.
If viewing holiday lights outdoors, take a one-way walk with those you live with and maintain distance from others.
Other Recommendations And Guidance
Always wear your mask and watch your distance. (Remove your mask only for eating and drinking.)
For 10 days before and after holiday gatherings, monitor yourself closely for fever and other symptoms of COVID-19, minimize contact with other people, and leave home only for essential services like going to work, buying groceries, and appointments with doctors; OR,
Obtain a negative result from a COVID-19 test, on a sample obtained within 72 hours of the celebration. Even with a negative test you must be vigilant about masking and distancing when you are around individuals you do not live with.
Testing only indicates whether a person may have COVID-19 at the moment of the test. You can still become sick with COVID-19 after your test and before your celebration.
Testing information can be found at www.mass.gov/GetTested
Do not share food, drink, or any utensils, including serving utensils.
Seat people with plenty of space (at least six feet) from one another while dining.
Consider seating people at smaller tables in multiple rooms instead of around a large family table.
Improve ventilation by opening windows and doors.
If setting up outdoor seating under a tent, ensure guests are still seated with physical distancing in mind. Enclosed 4-wall tents will have less air circulation than open air tents and should be considered indoor spaces (check also fire codes for heating tents).
If outdoor temperature or weather forces you to put down the tent sidewalls, consider leaving one or more sides open or rolling up the bottom 12 inches of each sidewall to enhance ventilation while still providing a wind break.
With the first vaccines rolling into Massachusetts this week, the hope is that this request is a one-time sacrifice to help the state weather the winter season and return to normal next year.
The end is finally in-sight, however, it has yet to arrive. It is critical for all of us to remain vigilant in our battle against COVID-19. COVID-19 remains a highly transmissible disease. Individuals should continue to follow these universal precautions:
We will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office While the administration continues to work with Federal and Local agencies to insure the safety and wellbeing of the residents of the Commonwealth during this ongoing pandemic and now manage the delivery of the much needed aid.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Governor Charlie Baker has a message to the residents of the Commonwealth - Reconsider how you wish to celebrate the holiday season this year. After a spike in COVID-19 rates after Thanksgiving Governor Baker's administration and local communities were forced to reimpose certain safety restrictions. The Governor went so far as rolling back the state's current phase to Stage 1 of Phase 3. That is why the administration is urging residents against inter-household gatherings and travel for Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and New Year’s Eve in order to avoid a similar scenario playing out as the pandemic enters its first full winter season.
“After seeing what happened in the aftermath of that one day, Thanksgiving, I don’t think we should kid ourselves about the holidays in December,” Baker said during a press conference Tuesday afternoon at the Massachusetts State House.
The state’s Department of Public Health released updated guidance Tuesday for the December holidays, echoing previous guidelines for Halloween and Thanksgiving but with a specific focus on limiting gatherings to members of the same household.
“It’s pretty simple,” Baker said Tuesday. “The safest way to celebrate this year is with members of your own household and to postpone or cancel any travel plans.
For those residents who do plan to travel should be prepared to comply with the state’s quarantine requirements for people entering and returning to Massachusetts.
Baker noted that the average number of new daily COVID-19 infections nearly doubled following Thanksgiving, as did the rate of positive tests in Massachusetts. This increase appears to have tapered off within the last several days and the Baker administration is doing its best to educate Massachusetts residents of the inherent risks involved when we let our guard down.
Similar to the Thanksgiving guidance, the guidelines encourage virtual gatherings only with extended family members and friends, as well as virtual Santa visits and caroling. Driving around to look at holiday lights in a car with members of your own family is also listed as a low-risk activity.
For those who are planning in-person versions of those events, the guidelines stress the importance of mask wearing and social distancing.
“It’s not a secret that we’re in a second surge here in Massachusetts,” Baker said. “And while hope is clearly right around the corner — arriving in dry ice in the form of the vaccine — it’s not here yet".
With the first vaccines rolling into Massachusetts this week, the hope is that this request is a one-time sacrifice to help the state weather the winter season and return to normal next year.
The end is finally in-sight, however, it has yet to arrive. It is critical for all of us to remain vigilant in our battle against COVID-19. COVID-19 remains a highly transmissible disease. Individuals should continue to follow these universal precautions:
We will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office While the administration continues to work with Federal and Local agencies to insure the safety and wellbeing of the residents of the Commonwealth during this ongoing pandemic and now manage the delivery of the much needed aid.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Vaccine Update, First Responders
First responders at the State and local level have been on the front lines of providing support to their communities during the COVID-19 pandemic. For the past year they have selflessly put the health and safety of themselves and their families at risk in order battle the Coronavirus pandemic. While there fight is far from over there is finally a light at the end tunnel. After a tumultuous nine months, Massachusetts has begun to receive doses of a newly authorized Coronavirus vaccine!
To assist our brave front line workers in their ongoing self-sacrificing struggle the initial, limited, quantities have been air-marked for medical staff. According to the Baker Administration the following hospitals received deliveries on Monday:
Boston Medical Center
Brockton Hospital
Cape Cod Hospital
Falmouth Hospital.
Additionally, the Administration has shared their schedule of expected deliveries for the remainder of this week.
Also, Lawrence General Hospital is expecting to receive a shipment and begin vaccinations this week. They estimate receiving the vaccine no later than Thursday.
And that is only the beginning of the good news! Moderna’s COVID-19 vaccine is up for approval by the FDA on Thursday and if all goes as expected distribution could begin next week!
Governor Baker has outlined a phased approach for the distribution of the vaccinations in Massachusetts. During the first phase health care workers, elderly in long term care and first responders can expect to be given access to the vaccines. The vaccines will be made available to the general public in the second phase which is expected to begin sometime next spring.
The hospitals are all in the process of identifying, notifying and scheduling those who will get vaccinated first. The state expects a total of 59,475 doses to arrive in Massachusetts sometime this week. Another 40,000 doses will come in a second delivery to the state, earmarked for nursing home and assisted living residents and staff. By the end of December, the state expects a total of some 300,000 doses.
The end is finally in-sight, however, it has yet to arrive. It is critical for all of us to remain vigilant in our battle against COVID-19. COVID-19 remains a highly transmissible disease. Individuals should continue to follow these universal precautions:
We will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office While the administration continues to work with Federal and Local agencies to insure the safety and wellbeing of the residents of the Commonwealth during this ongoing pandemic and now manage the delivery of the much needed aid.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
On Tuesday Gov. Charlie Baker declared that Massachusetts will soon roll backa single step within the current phase of its economic reopening plans, as cases continue to spike across the state. The changes officially begin on Sunday, Dec. 13 and will impact restrictions on the number of people allowed inside facilities and implement new rules related to masks and dining. He explained that the move back to "step one, phase three" will reduce capacity limits at nearly all businesses — including gyms, museums, office spaces, restaurants and arcades — to 40%.
Additionally, he also announced that masks must now be worn at all times inside workplaces unless a worker has a medical exemption or is in a private space. Lastly, outdoor events in every municipality no longer may host gatherings with more than 50 people.
The new orders called for restaurants to reduce the number of people who can be seated at any table to six, as well as to set 90-minute limits for diners. Patrons must wear masks as they order food and whenever they are not eating or drinking. Musical performances will no longer be allowed in restaurants. Food courts will close again. For the communities that were, however, deemed "lower risk," and did move into "step 2," the state permitted the following:
Indoor performance venues to open with 50% capacity with a maximum of 250 people
Outdoor performance venues capacity to increase to 50%, with a maximum of 250 people
Trampolines, obstacles courses, roller rinks and laser tag to open, with capacity at 50%
Fitting rooms open at retail stores
Gyms, museums, libraries and driving and flight schools to increase capacity to 50%
Now, Baker's most recent order means all communities that adopted any of the above measures will need to shut those activities down by Sunday.
"The state of Massachusetts is being tested once again," Baker said, "the days of most people doing most of the right things are probably not enough," he added. Tuesday's announcement came just one day after the governor told reporters that starting Friday, hospitals would begin canceling some non-urgent, inpatient elective surgeries and appointments.
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Last week Governor Baker announced that beginning Friday, December 4th, hospitals in Massachusetts will “curtail” elective inpatient procedures in an effort to free up staff and beds as the commonwealth braces for a new surge of coronavirus cases in the Commonwealth.
This means that medical centers will need to cease procedures that impact their inpatient capacity. The measure does not apply in cases where canceling or delaying treatment would negatively impact a patient’s health.
Data released by the state Department of Public Health on Sunday shows the seven-day average of the number of hospitalized COVID-19 patients has risen consistently over the past month, jumping from 491 patients on Nov. 6 to 936 patients on Nov. 26, Thanksgiving Day, to 1,312 patients on Dec. 5, the last date with available data.
In response to this negative trend the state opened a field hospital at the DCU Center in Worcester and plans are in the works to launch another such facility in Lowell.
Additionally, yesterday, Governor Baker announced, amid the swelling COVID-19 hospitalizations, a statewide rollback of the Massachusetts reopening process.
According to the Governor, all cities and towns will be required to go back to the first step of Phase 3 of the reopening, along with several other more “targeted” restrictions.
In addition to requiring indoor performance venues, certain retail fitting rooms, and recreational attractions like roller rinks, trampoline parks, laser tag venues, and escape rooms across the state to close, rolling back to the first step of Phase 3 also reduces capacity limits for a variety of sectors — including retail stores, gyms, offices, places of worship, movie theaters, and museums — from 50 percent to 40 percent of their maximum occupancy.
Previously, the Baker administration had allowed communities with lower rates of COVID-19 to move to the second step of Phase 3. According to the state’s website, there were already 58 communities in Massachusetts not deemed lower-risk that had to remain in or move back to the first step of Phase 3 (though others, like Boston, had voluntarily stayed in the first step). Under the new order, which takes effect Sunday, all 351 cities and towns in the state have to go back to the first step.
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Updated MA Safety, Manufacturing Part 4 of 4
Lower risk Massachusetts communities have been permitted to move into Step II of Phase III of Governor Baker's reopening plan. The Commonwealth defines "Lower-risk communities" as cities and towns that have not been designated in the “red” category in any of the last three weekly Department of Public Health weekly reports. Click hereto see the list of communities not designated as lower-risk communities.
To assist business owners we will be sharing highlights of the State's Updated Safety Standards and Reopening Guidelines for impacted sectors.
NOTE:COVID-19 is highly transmissible. Individuals should follow these universal precautions regardless of the extent of mitigation needed:
The current state of the COVID-19 pandemic is continually evolving. What is true today may not be tomorrow. At this time, the evidence suggests schools have not played a significant role in COVID-19 transmission and that children, particularly younger children, are less likely than adults to be infected with COVID-19.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
These sector specific COVID-19 workplace safety standards, and in conjunction with the COVID-19 Order No. 53, for Manufacturing Activities are issued to provide owners and operators of manufacturing sites and workers and contractors with instructions to help protect against the spread of COVID-19. Employers are encouraged to have workers continue to telework if feasible. These standards are minimum requirements only and are not exclusive or exhaustive. The public health data and matrix for disease prevention upon which these guidelines are based can and does change frequently, and the operator of the manufacturing site is accountable for adhering to all local, state and federal requirements relative to manufacturing activities. The operator of the manufacturing site is also responsible for staying abreast of any updates to these requirements.
Hygiene Protocols
Ensure access to handwashing facilities on site, including soap and running water, and allow sufficient break time for workers to wash hands to frequently; alcohol-based hand sanitizers with at least 60% alcohol may be used as an alternative
Supply workers at workplace location with adequate cleaning products (e.g., sanitizer, disinfecting wipes)
Require regular and not less than daily cleaning and sanitation of all high-touch areas such as workstations, door handles, and restrooms
Avoid sharing materials / equipment (e.g., goggles) or disinfect equipment between use
Post visible signage throughout the site to remind workers of the hygiene and safety protocols
Recommended Best Practices
Whenever possible employees should wear gloves, according to Standard Precautions, when it can be reasonably anticipated that contact with blood or other potentially infectious materials, mucous membranes, non-intact skin, potentially contaminated skin or contaminated equipment could occur.
Gloves are not a substitute for hand hygiene.
If your task requires gloves, perform hand hygiene prior to donning gloves, before touching the patient or the patient environment.
Perform hand hygiene immediately after removing gloves.
Change gloves and perform hand hygiene during patient care, if:
gloves become damaged
gloves become visibly soiled with blood or body fluids following a task
moving from work on a soiled body site to a clean body site on the same patient or if another clinical indication for hand hygiene occur
Never wear the same pair of gloves in the care of more than one patient
Carefully remove gloves to prevent hand contamination
Cleaning And Disinfecting
Clean commonly touched surfaces in restrooms (e.g., toilet seats, doorknobs, stall handles, sinks, paper towel dispensers, soap dispensers) frequently and in accordance with CDC guidelines
Conduct frequent cleaning and disinfection of site (after each shift, and more frequently if feasible)
Keep cleaning logs that include date, time, and scope of cleaning
Conduct frequent disinfecting of heavy transit areas, heavy machinery and high-touch surfaces (e.g., doorknobs, handrails, shared tools, bathrooms, elevators)
In event of a positive case, shut down site for a deep cleaning and disinfecting of the workplace in accordance with current guidance
Open windows and doors to increase airflow where possible
Recommended Best Practices
Open windows and doors to increase airflow where possible
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Updated MA Safety, Manufacturing Part 3 of 4
Lower risk Massachusetts communities have been permitted to move into Step II of Phase III of Governor Baker's reopening plan. The Commonwealth defines "Lower-risk communities" as cities and towns that have not been designated in the “red” category in any of the last three weekly Department of Public Health weekly reports. Click hereto see the list of communities not designated as lower-risk communities.
To assist business owners we will be sharing highlights of the State's Updated Safety Standards and Reopening Guidelines for impacted sectors.
NOTE:COVID-19 is highly transmissible. Individuals should follow these universal precautions regardless of the extent of mitigation needed:
The current state of the COVID-19 pandemic is continually evolving. What is true today may not be tomorrow. At this time, the evidence suggests schools have not played a significant role in COVID-19 transmission and that children, particularly younger children, are less likely than adults to be infected with COVID-19.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
These sector specific COVID-19 workplace safety standards, and in conjunction with the COVID-19 Order No. 53, for Manufacturing Activities are issued to provide owners and operators of manufacturing sites and workers and contractors with instructions to help protect against the spread of COVID-19. Employers are encouraged to have workers continue to telework if feasible. These standards are minimum requirements only and are not exclusive or exhaustive. The public health data and matrix for disease prevention upon which these guidelines are based can and does change frequently, and the operator of the manufacturing site is accountable for adhering to all local, state and federal requirements relative to manufacturing activities. The operator of the manufacturing site is also responsible for staying abreast of any updates to these requirements.
Staffing And Operations
Provide training to workers on up-to-date safety information and precautions including hygiene and other measures aimed at reducing disease transmission, including:
Social distancing, hand-washing, proper use of face coverings
Self-screening at home, including temperature and symptom checks
Importance of not coming to work if ill
When to seek medical attention if symptoms become severe
Which underlying health conditions may make individuals more susceptible to contracting and suffering from a severe case of the virus
Facilities must screen workers at each shift by ensuring the following:
Worker is not experiencing any symptoms such as fever (100.0 and above) or chills, cough, shortness of breath, sore throat, fatigue, headache, muscle/body aches, runny nose/congestion, new loss of taste or smell, or nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
Worker has not had “close contact” with an individual diagnosed with COVID-19. “Close contact” means living in the same household as a person who has tested positive for COVID-19, caring for a person who has tested positive for COVID-19, being within 6 feet of a person who has tested positive for COVID-19 for 15 minutes or more, or coming in direct contact with secretions (e.g., sharing utensils, being coughed on) from a person who has tested positive for COVID-19, while that person was symptomatic
Worker has not been asked to self-isolate or quarantine by their doctor or a local public health official
Workers who fail to meet the above criteria must be sent home
Facilities with highly manual work should reopen in gradual / phased approach, adjusting operations and work scheduling (working teams with different schedules or designated staggered arrival / departure time) to reduce density in the facility, minimize contact across workers and prevent congestion
Limit visitors and service providers on site; shipping and deliveries should be completed in designated areas, outside the facility if possible
Log everyone who comes in contact with site to enable contact tracing, including temporary visitors (e.g., those doing material drop-offs)
For guidance on business-sponsored travel, refer to the Commonwealth's current out-of-state travel order. Employers are strongly discouraged from requiring or allowing business-related travel to destinations other than those appearing on the Department of Public Health’s list of COVID-19 lower risk States. Employers that permit employer-paid or - reimbursed travel to those States should take measures to ensure employees comply with this order. Employers are also urged to strongly discourage their employees from taking leisure travel to destinations not included on the list of COVID-19 lower-risk States
Workers must stay home if feeling ill
Workers who are particularly vulnerable to COVID-19 according to the Centers for Disease Control (e.g., due to age or underlying conditions) are encouraged to stay home
Encourage workers to self-identify symptoms or any close contact to a known or suspected COVID-19 case to the employer
Encourage workers who test positive for COVID-19 to disclose to the workplace employer for purposes of cleaning / disinfecting and contact tracing. If the employer is notified of a positive case at the workplace, the employer shall notify the local Board of Health (LBOH) in the city or town where the workplace is located and assist the LBOH as reasonably requested to advise likely contacts to isolate and self-quarantine. Testing of other workers may be recommended consistent with guidance and / or at the request of the LBOH
Manufacturing sites should maintain operating hours that allow for on-going off-hour sanitation and cleaning
Additional on-site amenities and services may only open and operate when those amenities or services would otherwise be authorized to operate under the Commonwealth’s Phased Reopening Plan and then must adhere to all sector-specific safety protocols, available on the Reopening Plan website, applicable to the amenity or service.
Recommended Best Practices
Facilities with highly manual work should reopen in gradual / phased approach, adjusting operations and work scheduling (working teams with different schedules or designated staggered arrival / departure time) to reduce density in the facility, minimize contact across workers and prevent congestion
Workers who are particularly vulnerable to COVID-19 according to the Centers for Disease Control (e.g., due to age or underlying conditions) are encouraged to stay home
Encourage workers to self-identify symptoms or any close contact to a known or suspected COVID-19 case to the employer
Encourage workers who test positive for COVID-19 to disclose to the workplace employer for purposes of cleaning / disinfecting and contact tracing
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Updated MA Safety, Manufacturing Part 2 of 4
Lower risk Massachusetts communities have been permitted to move into Step II of Phase III of Governor Baker's reopening plan. The Commonwealth defines "Lower-risk communities" as cities and towns that have not been designated in the “red” category in any of the last three weekly Department of Public Health weekly reports. Click hereto see the list of communities not designated as lower-risk communities.
To assist business owners we will be sharing highlights of the State's Updated Safety Standards and Reopening Guidelines for impacted sectors.
NOTE:COVID-19 is highly transmissible. Individuals should follow these universal precautions regardless of the extent of mitigation needed:
The current state of the COVID-19 pandemic is continually evolving. What is true today may not be tomorrow. At this time, the evidence suggests schools have not played a significant role in COVID-19 transmission and that children, particularly younger children, are less likely than adults to be infected with COVID-19.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
These sector specific COVID-19 workplace safety standards, and in conjunction with the COVID-19 Order No. 53, for Manufacturing Activities are issued to provide owners and operators of manufacturing sites and workers and contractors with instructions to help protect against the spread of COVID-19. Employers are encouraged to have workers continue to telework if feasible. These standards are minimum requirements only and are not exclusive or exhaustive. The public health data and matrix for disease prevention upon which these guidelines are based can and does change frequently, and the operator of the manufacturing site is accountable for adhering to all local, state and federal requirements relative to manufacturing activities. The operator of the manufacturing site is also responsible for staying abreast of any updates to these requirements.
Social Distancing
Ensure separation of 6 feet or more between individuals at fixed working positions unless this distance is unsafe due to the particular nature of the manufacturing work or the configuration of the workspace
Manual work: reengineer workstations to increase distance between workers; install visual distancing markers on workstations to delineate 6 feet separations; place markers throughout facility to guide movement of individuals
Close or reconfigure worker common spaces and high density areas of facilities where workers are likely to congregate (e.g., break rooms, eating areas) to allow physical distancing
Cafeterias must practice physical distancing and appropriate hygiene measures and may allow indoor and / or outdoor seating according to Restaurant guidance
Designate assigned working areas (e.g., floor, building, factory zone) to individuals where possible to limit movement throughout the facility and limit contact between workers
Improve ventilation for enclosed spaces where possible (e.g., open doors and windows)
Stagger lunch and break times, regulating maximum number of people in one place and ensuring at least 6 feet of physical distancing during any meeting
Face coverings are required for all workers, except where doing so may introduce a safety hazard to workers or where an individual is unable to wear a face covering due to a medical condition or disability
Establish directional pathways to manage worker flow for foot traffic, to minimize contact (e.g., one-way entrance and exit to rooms, one-way pathways). Post clearly visible signage regarding these policies
Minimize the use of confined spaces (e.g., elevators, control rooms, vehicles) by more than one individual at a time; all workers in such spaces at the same time are required to wear face coverings
Physical partitions separating workstations must be installed for areas that cannot be spaced out. Physical partitions must be at least 6 feet in height
Recommended Best Practices
Designate assigned working areas (e.g., floor, building, factory zone) to individuals where possible to limit movement throughout the facility and limit contact between workers
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Updated MA Safety, Manufacturing Part 1 of 4
Lower risk Massachusetts communities have been permitted to move into Step II of Phase III of Governor Baker's reopening plan. The Commonwealth defines "Lower-risk communities" as cities and towns that have not been designated in the “red” category in any of the last three weekly Department of Public Health weekly reports. Click hereto see the list of communities not designated as lower-risk communities.
To assist business owners we will be sharing highlights of the State's Updated Safety Standards and Reopening Guidelines for impacted sectors.
NOTE:COVID-19 is highly transmissible. Individuals should follow these universal precautions regardless of the extent of mitigation needed:
The current state of the COVID-19 pandemic is continually evolving. What is true today may not be tomorrow. At this time, the evidence suggests schools have not played a significant role in COVID-19 transmission and that children, particularly younger children, are less likely than adults to be infected with COVID-19.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
These sector specific COVID-19 workplace safety standards, and in conjunction with the COVID-19 Order No. 53, for Manufacturing Activities are issued to provide owners and operators of manufacturing sites and workers and contractors with instructions to help protect against the spread of COVID-19. Employers are encouraged to have workers continue to telework if feasible. These standards are minimum requirements only and are not exclusive or exhaustive. The public health data and matrix for disease prevention upon which these guidelines are based can and does change frequently, and the operator of the manufacturing site is accountable for adhering to all local, state and federal requirements relative to manufacturing activities. The operator of the manufacturing site is also responsible for staying abreast of any updates to these requirements.
Standards For Responsible Manufacturing Activities In Massachusetts
No manufacturing activity shall occur without meeting the State mandatory Safety Standards for Workplaces as applied to manufacturing facilities in this document. These sector specific COVID-19 Workplace Safety Standards for Manufacturing apply to all manufacturing (essential and non-essential) in operation during the COVID-19 public health emergency until rescinded or amended by the State. The operator of each manufacturing site or facility shall be responsible for meeting these standards.
The following workplace specific safety standards are organized around four distinct categories covering Social Distancing, Hygiene Protocols, Staffing and Operations, and Cleaning and Disinfecting.
Hygiene Protocols
Ensure access to handwashing facilities on site, including soap and running water, and allow sufficient break time for workers to wash hands to frequently; alcohol-based hand sanitizers with at least 60% alcohol may be used as an alternative
Supply workers at workplace location with adequate cleaning products (e.g., sanitizer, disinfecting wipes)
Require regular and not less than daily cleaning and sanitation of all high-touch areas such as workstations, door handles, and restrooms
Post visible signage throughout the site to remind workers of the hygiene and safety protocols
Avoid sharing materials / equipment (e.g., goggles) or disinfect equipment between use
Recommended Best Practices
Frequently wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. When soap and running water are unavailable, use an alcohol-based hand rub with at least 60% alcohol.
Always wash hands that are visibly soiled.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.
Practice good respiratory etiquette, including covering coughs and sneezes.
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Updated MA Safety, Retail Part 4 of 4
Lower risk Massachusetts communities have been permitted to move into Step II of Phase III of Governor Baker's reopening plan. The Commonwealth defines "Lower-risk communities" as cities and towns that have not been designated in the “red” category in any of the last three weekly Department of Public Health weekly reports. Click hereto see the list of communities not designated as lower-risk communities.
To assist business owners we will be sharing highlights of the State's Updated Safety Standards and Reopening Guidelines for impacted sectors.
NOTE:COVID-19 is highly transmissible. Individuals should follow these universal precautions regardless of the extent of mitigation needed:
The current state of the COVID-19 pandemic is continually evolving. What is true today may not be tomorrow. At this time, the evidence suggests schools have not played a significant role in COVID-19 transmission and that children, particularly younger children, are less likely than adults to be infected with COVID-19.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
These updated workplace safety standards, and in conjunction with the COVID-19 Order No. 53, for Retail Businesses are posted in advance of their effective date to allow Retail Businesses time to prepare to operate in compliance with these mandatory health and safety standards. Retail Businesses remain subject to the previously issued October 29, 2020 safety standards until these revised workplace safety standards go into effect on November 6, 2020.
Hygiene Protocols
Disinfect shared equipment, such as cash registers, intercoms, tagging machines before use by another employee
Ensure access to handwashing facilities on site, including soap and running water, wherever possible and encourage frequent handwashing; alcohol-based hand sanitizers with at least 60% alcohol may be used as an alternative
Supply workers at workplace location with adequate cleaning products (e.g., sanitizer, disinfecting wipes)
Alcohol-based hand sanitizers with at least 60% alcohol shall be made available at entrances and throughout floor areas for both workers and customers
Avoid sharing equipment and supplies between workers
Post visible signage throughout the site to remind workers of hygiene and safety protocols
Recommended Best Practices
Stock up on cleaning products (e.g., sanitizer, disinfecting wipes)
Alcohol-based hand sanitizers stations throughout floor areas for both workers and customers
Cleaning and Disinfecting
Clean commonly touched surfaces in restrooms (e.g., toilet seats, doorknobs, stall handles, sinks, paper towel dispensers, soap dispensers) frequently and in accordance with CDC guidelines
Conduct frequent cleaning and disinfection of site (at least daily and more frequently if feasible)
Keep cleaning logs that include date, time, and scope of cleaning
Conduct frequent disinfecting of heavy transit areas and high-touch surfaces (e.g., doorknobs, bathrooms, baskets, carts, staff break rooms)
In event of a positive case, shut down site for a deep cleaning and disinfecting of the workplace in accordance with currentCDC guidance
Open windows and doors to increase airflow where possible
Once returned or tried on by customers, remove clothing from service for 24 hours (before it can be returned by staff and handled by another customer)
Recommended Best Practices
Open windows and doors to increase airflow where possible
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Updated MA Safety, Retail Part 3 of 4
Lower risk Massachusetts communities have been permitted to move into Step II of Phase III of Governor Baker's reopening plan. The Commonwealth defines "Lower-risk communities" as cities and towns that have not been designated in the “red” category in any of the last three weekly Department of Public Health weekly reports. Click hereto see the list of communities not designated as lower-risk communities.
To assist business owners we will be sharing highlights of the State's Updated Safety Standards and Reopening Guidelines for impacted sectors.
NOTE:COVID-19 is highly transmissible. Individuals should follow these universal precautions regardless of the extent of mitigation needed:
The current state of the COVID-19 pandemic is continually evolving. What is true today may not be tomorrow. At this time, the evidence suggests schools have not played a significant role in COVID-19 transmission and that children, particularly younger children, are less likely than adults to be infected with COVID-19.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
These updated workplace safety standards, and in conjunction with the COVID-19 Order No. 53, for Retail Businesses are posted in advance of their effective date to allow Retail Businesses time to prepare to operate in compliance with these mandatory health and safety standards. Retail Businesses remain subject to the previously issued October 29, 2020 safety standards until these revised workplace safety standards go into effect on November 6, 2020.
Staffing And Operations
The following workplace specific guidance is organized around four distinct categories covering Staffing and Operations.
Provide training to workers on up-to-date safety information and precautions including hygiene 4 and other measures aimed at reducing disease transmission, including:
Social distancing, hand-washing, proper use of face coverings
Self-screening at home, including temperature and symptom checks
Importance of not coming to work if ill
When to seek medical attention if symptoms become severe
Which underlying health conditions may make individuals more susceptible to contracting and suffering from a severe case of the virus
Facilities must screen workers at each shift by ensuring the following:
Worker is not experiencing any symptoms such as fever (100.0 and above) or chills, cough,shortness of breath, sore throat, fatigue, headache, muscle/body aches, runny nose/congestion, new loss of taste or smell, or nausea, vomiting ordiarrhea
Worker has not had “close contact” with an individual diagnosed with COVID-19. “Close contact” means living in the same household as a person who has tested positive for COVID-19, caring for a person who has tested positive for COVID-19, being within 6 feet of a person who has tested positive for COVID-19 for 15 minutes or more, or coming in direct contact with secretions (e.g., sharing utensils, being coughed on) from a person who has tested positive for COVID-19
Worker has not been asked to self-isolate or quarantine by their doctor or a local public health official
Workers who fail to meet the above criteria must be sent home
Adjust workplace hours and shifts (leverage working teams with different schedules or staggered arrival / departure) to minimize contact across workers and reduce congestion at entry points
Businesses should reduce operating hours to allow for on-going off-hour sanitation and cleaning
Limit visitors and service providers on site; shipping and deliveries should be completed in designated areas
Workers shall not appear for work or complete a shift if feeling ill
Workers who are particularly vulnerable to COVID-19 according to the Centers for Disease Control (e.g., due to age or underlying conditions) are encouraged to stay home
Workers are strongly encouraged to self-identify symptoms or any close contact to a known or suspected COVID-19 case to the employer
Encourage workers who test positive for COVID-19 to disclose to the employer for purposes of cleaning / disinfecting and contact tracing. If the employer is notified of any positive case at the workplace, the employer must immediately notify the local Board of Health (LBOH) in the city or town where the workplace is located. Employers must assist the LBOH with contact tracing efforts, including advising likely contacts to isolate and self-quarantine. Testing of other workers may be recommended consistent with guidance and / or at the request of theLBOH
For in-home delivery of products, such as furniture and appliances, screen customers for symptoms prior to workers entering the house. Delay delivery if customer indicates potential COVID-19 positive person in the household
Limit visitors and service providers on site; shipping and deliveries should be completed in designated areas
Limit employee movement to discrete work zones to minimize overlap where possible
Recommended Best Practices
Workers who are particularly vulnerable to COVID-19 according to the Centers for Disease Control (e.g., due to age or underlying conditions) are encouraged to stay home
Workers are strongly encouraged to self-identify symptoms or any close contact to a known or suspected COVID-19 case to the employer
Encourage workers who test positive for COVID-19 to disclose to the workplace employer for purposes of cleaning / disinfecting and contact tracing
Limit employee movement to discrete work zones to minimize overlap where possible
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Updated MA Safety, Retail Part 2 of 4
Lower risk Massachusetts communities have been permitted to move into Step II of Phase III of Governor Baker's reopening plan. The Commonwealth defines "Lower-risk communities" as cities and towns that have not been designated in the “red” category in any of the last three weekly Department of Public Health weekly reports. Click hereto see the list of communities not designated as lower-risk communities.
To assist business owners we will be sharing highlights of the State's Updated Safety Standards and Reopening Guidelines for impacted sectors.
NOTE:COVID-19 is highly transmissible. Individuals should follow these universal precautions regardless of the extent of mitigation needed:
The current state of the COVID-19 pandemic is continually evolving. What is true today may not be tomorrow. At this time, the evidence suggests schools have not played a significant role in COVID-19 transmission and that children, particularly younger children, are less likely than adults to be infected with COVID-19.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
These updated workplace safety standards for Retail Businesses are posted in advance of their effective date to allow Retail Businesses time to prepare to operate in compliance with these mandatory health and safety standards. Retail Businesses remain subject to the previously issued October 29, 2020 safety standards until these revised workplace safety standards go into effect on November 6, 2020.
Social Distancing and Capacity Limits
The following workplace specific guidance is organized around four distinct categories covering Social Distancing and Capacity Limits.
Require face coverings at all times for all workers and customers, except where unsafe due to medical condition or disability
Each business must monitor customer entries and exits and limit occupancy at all times to the greater of the following:
50% of the building’s maximum permitted occupancy as documented in its occupancy permit on record with the municipal building department or other municipal record holder
Buildings for which no permitted occupancy limitation is on record may allow up to 10 persons (including staff) per 1,000 square feet of accessible space
In any case, no enclosed space within the building shall exceed occupancy of 10 persons per 1,000 square feet
All occupancy counts and calculations shall include customers, staff, and other workers
Operators of enclosed shopping malls and other indoor, multi-tenant retail spaces must monitor customer and worker entries and exits to common areas and limit occupancy of common areas at all times to 50% of maximum permitted occupancy levels
Within enclosed shopping malls and other indoor multi-tenant retail spaces:
Retailers or restaurants serving food shall adhere to the latest restaurant protocols. Food court seating may be open provided that restaurant protocols, including spacing and cleaning of tables, are followed. In accordance with the COVID-19 Order No. 53 restaurants and food courts must close to the public no later than 9:30 pm and may not re-open to the public before 5:00 am the following day, although restaurants may continue to provide take-out service after 9:30pm.
Any additional seating areas must remain closed
Any children’s play areas must be closed
All arcades must follow the standards for Arcades and Other Indoor and Outdoor Game and Recreation Businesses
If the store offers delivery, curbside pickup capabilities, or limited “appointment only shopping,” customers should be encouraged to use those methods before coming into the store
Grocery stores and retail stores with a pharmacy department must provide dedicated hours at least one hour each day of operation, in the early morning, for adults 60 years of age and older. These hours must be conspicuously posted
Other retail stores are encouraged to offer exclusive hours or other accommodations for those in high-risk populations as defined by the CDC
Ensure separation of 6 feet or more between individuals where possible:
Close or reconfigure worker common spaces and high density areas where workers are likely to congregate (e.g., break rooms, eating areas) to allow social distancing
Physical partitions must separate workstations that cannot be spaced out (partitions must be at least 6 feet in height) 3
Install physical barriers for checkout stations where possible, otherwise maintain 6 feet distance where not possible
Install visual social distancing markers to encourage customers to remain 6 feet apart (e.g., lines outside of the stores if applicable, lines to make payments, lines to use the restroom)
Mark rooms and hallways to indicate 6 feet separation
Establish directional aisles to manage customer flow for foot traffic, if possible, to minimize contact (e.g., one-way entrance and exit to the store, one-way aisles). Post clearly visible signage regarding these policies
Contactless payment methods are encouraged
Self-serve, unattended buffets, topping bars, and other communal serving areas (such as salad bars) must remain closed. Retailers must eliminate any open free samples or tastings. Self-serve beverage stations must comply with the following guidelines:
Hand sanitizer must be made available next to beverage stations and operators must instruct customers to use before pouring beverages
Only straws and stirrers individually wrapped in cellophane or paper are allowed
Cups and lids must be from single pull dispenser or other method to minimize contact
Sweeteners, sugars and creamers must be individual packets
Floor markers must be installed to achieve social distancing
Use of personal mugs and cups are not allowed
Frequent disinfecting of the beverage station must take place, even during busy times
Individual retailers must not allow sampling or application of personal goods (makeup, perfume, lotion) unless they provide single-use applicators or have a no-touch option.
In Phase 3 Step 1, fitting rooms may be opened for use by businesses for which their operation is necessary.
In Phase 3 Step 2, fitting rooms may be open for use by all retail businesses.
Any clothing tried on by a customer must either be quarantined for 24 hours or thoroughly steam cleaned prior to returning to the floor
Stagger staff lunch and break times, regulating max number of people in one place and ensuring at least 6 feet of physical distancing
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Updated MA Safety, Retail Part 1 of 4
Lower risk Massachusetts communities have been permitted to move into Step II of Phase III of Governor Baker's reopening plan. The Commonwealth defines "Lower-risk communities" as cities and towns that have not been designated in the “red” category in any of the last three weekly Department of Public Health weekly reports. Click hereto see the list of communities not designated as lower-risk communities.
To assist business owners we will be sharing highlights of the State's Updated Safety Standards and Reopening Guidelines for impacted sectors.
NOTE:COVID-19 is highly transmissible. Individuals should follow these universal precautions regardless of the extent of mitigation needed:
The current state of the COVID-19 pandemic is continually evolving. What is true today may not be tomorrow. At this time, the evidence suggests schools have not played a significant role in COVID-19 transmission and that children, particularly younger children, are less likely than adults to be infected with COVID-19.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
These updated workplace safety standards for Retail Businesses are posted in advance of their effective date to allow Retail Businesses time to prepare to operate in compliance with these mandatory health and safety standards. Retail Businesses remain subject to the previously issued October 29, 2020 safety standards until these revised workplace safety standards go into effect on November 6, 2020.
These sector specific COVID-19 workplace safety standards for Retail Businesses are issued to provide owners and operators of Retail Businesses and workers and customers with instructions to help protect against the spread of COVID-19 as retail stores transition from curbside pickup and delivery only to browsing and in-store transactions with restrictions.
These standards are minimum requirements only and are not exclusive or exhaustive. The public health data and matrix upon which these guidelines are based can and does change frequently, and the owner or operator for each retail business is accountable for staying abreast of any updates to these requirements.
Facilities Permitted to Open to the Public by Community Status
Food Courts
Open, but required to close between 9:30 pm – 5:00 am except for take-out
Open, but required to close between 9:30 pm – 5:00 am except for take-out
Fitting Rooms
Open in businesses for which their operation is necessary
Open for all retail stores
Standards for Responsible Retail Businesses in Massachusetts
In accordance with the COVID-19 Order No. 53, Requiring Early Closing for Certain Businesses and Activities, no retail business may sell or provide alcohol of any kind between the hours of 9:30 pm and 5:00 am and no entity operating under a marijuana retailer license may sell adult use cannabis or adult use cannabis products of any kind between the hours of 9:30pm and 5:00 am.
No activity in Retail Businesses can occur without meeting these sector specific COVID-19 workplace 2 safety standards for Retail Businesses. These standards apply, until rescinded or amended by the State, to all Retail Businesses except for Farmers’ Markets, which shall continue to be governed by Department of Public Health Guidance. These standards supersede and replace earlier issued Department of Public Health guidance governing grocery stores and pharmacies.
These standards do not supersede the updatedstay at home orderissued on Friday, November 6th. It is critically important that everybody follows the new order which can be found on the Mass.gov website.
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - New Orders And Advisories, Part 2 of 2
Beginning on Friday, November 6, 2020, all residents of Massachusetts are advised to stay home between the hours of 10pm and 5am.
COVID-19 case numbers in our state are rising and the Commonwealth’s COVID-19 related hospitalizations and COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit (ICU) census have more than doubled over the past 2 months. Social gatherings are contributing to these increases. Left unchecked, the current COVID-19 case growth poses a risk to our healthcare system. Intervention is warranted to moderate case growth and preserve hospital capacity. It’s more important than ever to follow guidance from local, state, and federal officials on how to stop the spread of the virus.
NOTE:COVID-19 is highly transmissible. Individuals should follow these universal precautions regardless of the extent of mitigation needed:
The current state of the COVID-19 pandemic is continually evolving. What is true today may not be tomorrow. At this time, the evidence suggests schools have not played a significant role in COVID-19 transmission and that children, particularly younger children, are less likely than adults to be infected with COVID-19.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
All persons in the Commonwealth over the age of five years old are required to wear a mask or cloth face covering over their mouth and nose when in a public location, weather indoors or outdoors. Mask or face coverings are encouraged but not required for children between the ages of two and five.
Public locations include any place open to the public including, but not limited to:
Grocery stores
Pharmacies and other retail stores
Public transportation, taxis, in other ridesharing vehicles
Public streets and ways
Locations that host indoor or outdoor events, activities, or performances
Masks or cloth face coverings are also required when in a carpool with non-household members.
NOTE: Medical–grade masks should be reserved for healthcare workers and first responders.
Customers, visitors, attendees, etc. refusing to wear a mask or cloth face covering for non-medical reasons are to be declined entry to the facility.
Masks And Face Coverings - Exceptions
Any person with a medical or disabling condition.
In situations where a face covering would impede communication by or with persons with hearing impairments or similar disabilities.
When alone in a vehicle or only with other household members
Places of employment - Employees who request accommodations to not have to wear a face covering while at work due to a medical or disabling condition must provide their employer with documentation to verify the condition.
Schools - Students unable to wear a face covering due to a medical or disabling condition and are expected to participate in in in-person learning must provide documentation verifying the condition.
Limitations To Gatherings
The following limitations apply to indoor and outdoor gatherings including, without limitation, all social, community, civic, public, and leisure events as well as conferences, conventions, fundraisers, and other similar events or assemblies. Members of the same household, one assemble together with no other non-household members present, do not constitute a gathering and are not be subject to these limitations.
Social Distancing
In addition to the capacity restrictions all participants in indoor and outdoor gatherings, including gatherings at private residence,must maintain at least 6 feet of physical distance from every other participant in the gathering, except where participants are members of the same household. A gathering shall violate his provision wear, no matter the number of participants present, conditions or activities at the gathering are such that it is not reasonably possible for all participants to maintain this degree of separation.
Gatherings At Private Residences
Indoor gatherings at private residences and in any other place not falling within the definition of an event venue or public setting are limited to a maximum of 10 people.
Outdoor gatherings at private residences and in any other place not falling within the definition of an event venue or public setting are limited to a maximum of 25 people.
Gatherings At Event Venues And In Public Settings
Indoor gatherings at event venues or in public settings are limited to a maximum of 25 people.
The following capacity limitations shall apply to outdoor gatherings at event venues or in public settings:
In lower risk communities or in any successor order gatherings at event venues or in public settings are limited to a maximum of 100 persons in a single venue or space.
In communities that do not qualify as lower risk communities, gatherings at event venues or in public settings are limited to a maximum of 50 persons in a single venue or space.
Exceptions To Limitation Restrictions
Religious activities provided that such gatherings follow the COVID-19 safety rules and capacity limitations for Places of Worship
Outdoor gatherings for the purpose of political expression
Notification Of Exposure Risk
For outdoor gatherings in lower risk communicate communities where more than 50 attendees are anticipated, the operator of the event venue shall provide notice to the local Board of Health in the municipality where the gathering is located at least one week before the event is scheduled, or otherwise as soon as possible where one week notice is not practical due to the nature of the event.
For events held in public spaces like parks were more than 50 attendees are anticipated, the event organizer shall be responsible for providing this notice.
Time Limitation
All gatherings, no matter the size or location, must end and participants must disperse by 9:30 PM, with the exceptions of religious gatherings and political gatherings.
Face Coverings
Masks or face coverings are encouraged at all gatherings private and public.
Contact Tracing
If a host or event venue is notified that an event attendee or event worker has tested positive for COVID-19 the event host or event venue must immediately notify the Local Board of Health in the municipality where the event took place. Host and event venues must assist the Department of Public Health and Local Board of Health with contact tracing in case investigations, including, upon request, providing list of attendees at social gatherings and their contact information. Event hosts and venues who fail to timely report positive cases or “cooperate with contact tracing and case investigations may be subject to the penalties.
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Beginning on Friday, November 6, 2020, all residents of Massachusetts are advised to stay home between the hours of 10pm and 5am.
COVID-19 case numbers in our state are rising and the Commonwealth’s COVID-19 related hospitalizations and COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit (ICU) census have more than doubled over the past 2 months. Social gatherings are contributing to these increases. Left unchecked, the current COVID-19 case growth poses a risk to our healthcare system. Intervention is warranted to moderate case growth and preserve hospital capacity. It’s more important than ever to follow guidance from local, state, and federal officials on how to stop the spread of the virus.
NOTE:COVID-19 is highly transmissible. Individuals should follow these universal precautions regardless of the extent of mitigation needed:
The current state of the COVID-19 pandemic is continually evolving. What is true today may not be tomorrow. At this time, the evidence suggests schools have not played a significant role in COVID-19 transmission and that children, particularly younger children, are less likely than adults to be infected with COVID-19.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
It is critically important that everybody follows the steps listed below, not just for their own health and safety, but for the health and safety of their family and loved ones as well. The following are excerpts from Governor Baker's executive order which can be downloaded from the Mass.gov website.
NOTE: In order to comply with this advisory, between the hours of 10pm and 5am, you must:
Only leave home to go to work or school, or for essential needs such as seeking emergency medical care, going to the grocery store or pharmacy, picking up take-out food, or receiving deliveries. If you do leave home, practice social distancing by staying 6 feet away from others and wearing a face covering.
Not have gatherings in your home with anybody outside of your household.
Comply with all Governor’s Orders, including orders requiring face coverings, limiting gatherings, and mandating early closure of businesses.
Practice social distancing and avoid touching surfaces frequently touched by others if you go outside to get fresh air.
Use remote modes of communication like phone or video chat instead of visiting friends or family.
Taking these steps is critical to preventing the spread of the virus, protecting the lives of you and your loved ones, and preserving our acute care hospital and other health care systems’ capacity.
Early Closure of Businesses And Activities
All businesses, facilities, or activities included within the categories listed below must close their premises to the public each day no later than 9:30 PM and may not re-open their premises to the public before 5 AM the following day (the “mandatory closing period”). Except as otherwise specifically permitted, during the daily mandatory closing period, businesses, facilities, or activities within the categories listed below may not admit customers, patrons, or members of the public to their premises or otherwise offer, provide, or permit in-person, on premises services or activities.
Operations of affected businesses, facilities, or activities may keep their premises open to employees and other workers during the mandatory closing period and otherwise conduct business activities and operations that do not involve admitting customers, patrons, or members of the public to the premises.
Businesses, facilities, and activities subject to the daily mandatory closing period:
Restaurants, take-out and delivery of food and non-alcoholic beverages may continue
Arcades and other indoor and outdoor recreation
Indoor and outdoor events
Indoor and outdoor theaters, movie theaters, and performance venues
Drive-in movie theaters
Youth and adult amateur sports activities
Golf facilities
Recreational boating and boating businesses
Outdoor recreational experiences and educational activities
Casinos, horse racing tracks, and simulcast facilities
Driving and flight schools
Zoos, botanical gardens, wildlife reserves, and nature centers
Close contact personal services
Fitness centers and health club
Indoor and outdoor pools
Museums, cultural and historical facilities, guided tours
Categories of businesses, facilities, and activities listed above are each authorized and directed to amend all relevant rules, guidance documents, and protocols to incorporate the mandatory closing period requirement.
Restriction On Service And Sale Of Alcohol
During the daily mandatory closing period no person, business, organization, establishment, premises, or service holding or operating under a license issued pursuant to the general laws may sell, serve or provide alcohol of any kind to any person or entity. This restriction applies to all retailers, restaurants, private clubs, catering halls, events, and delivery services license to offer alcohol services or retail sale pursuant to the general laws.
Retail Sale Of Adult-Use Cannabis
During the daily mandatory closing period no individual, business, organization, establishment, premises, or entity holding or operating under a marijuana retailer license may sel adult-use cannabis or adult-use cannabis products of any kind to any person or entity.
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Updated MA Safety, Places Of Worship, Part 3 of 3
Lower risk Massachusetts communities have been permitted to move into Step II of Phase III of Governor Baker's reopening plan. The Commonwealth defines "Lower-risk communities" as cities and towns that have not been designated in the “red” category in any of the last three weekly Department of Public Health weekly reports. Click hereto see the list of communities not designated as lower-risk communities.
To assist business owners we will be sharing highlights of the State's Updated Safety Standards and Reopening Guidelines for impacted sectors.
NOTE:COVID-19 is highly transmissible. Individuals should follow these universal precautions regardless of the extent of mitigation needed:
The current state of the COVID-19 pandemic is continually evolving. What is true today may not be tomorrow. At this time, the evidence suggests schools have not played a significant role in COVID-19 transmission and that children, particularly younger children, are less likely than adults to be infected with COVID-19.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
These sector specific COVID-19 safety standards for Places of Worship and Religious Services are issued to provide instructions to help protect against the spread of COVID-19 as the number of persons attending in-person services increases.
These standards are minimum requirements only and are not exclusive or exhaustive. The public health data and matrix for disease prevention upon which these guidelines are based can and does change frequently, and the operator of a Place of Worship is responsible for adhering to all local, state and federal requirements.
Contributions And Communal Food, Drink, And Sacraments
Places of worship are encouraged to modify the means to collect any financial contributions from attendees so as to eliminate shared contribution trays and baskets and to minimize contact. Consider setting up a no-touch method to collect contributions, and encouraging contributions through mail or electronic means
Places of worship are encouraged to modify communal rituals, like taking communion or passing of the peace, so as to limit contact with others. Consider distributing, where applicable, prepackaged communion or sacraments
Places of worship shall not have communal gathering pre or post service (e.g., coffee hours or other food services)
Places of worship may allow small gatherings (such as support group meetings) to be held with 25 persons or fewer
Places of worship running food pantries or other prepackaged food distribution may continue to do so
Recommended Best Practices
Places of worship are encouraged to modify the means to collect any financial contributions from attendees so as to eliminate shared contribution trays and baskets and to minimize contact
Consider setting up a no-touch method to collect contributions, and encouraging contributions through mail or electronic means
Places of worship are encouraged to modify communal rituals, like taking communion or passing of the peace, so as to limit contact with others
Consider distributing, where applicable, prepackaged communion or sacraments
Nurseries and Childcare
Any childcare services should follow the latest EEC child-care guidance, available on the EEC Reopening Site.
Recommended Best Practices
Arrange the physical space to promote physical distancing
Eliminate materials that increase the likelihood of transmission
Cleaning and Disinfecting and Hygiene Protocols
Places of worship shall be cleaned and disinfected between each service, including disinfection of heavy transit areas and high-touch surfaces (e.g., doorknobs, bathrooms, microphones, shared instruments)
If a Place of worship learns that an individual with COVID-19 attended a service or otherwise entered the place of worship, it shall conduct a deep cleaning and disinfecting consistent with the Centers for Disease Control guidance
Places of worship shall ensure that attendees and workers have access to handwashing facilities, including soap and running water, and allow workers sufficient break time to wash hands, as necessary. They are also encouraged to make alcohol-based hand sanitizers with at least 60% alcohol available, if possible
Recommended Best Practices
Open windows and doors to increase airflow where possible
Post visible signage throughout the building to remind attendees of hygiene and safety protocols
Notification Of Positive Case
If a Place of worship learns that an attendee or worker or other worker has tested positive for COVID-19, it shall notify the local Board of Health (LBOH) in the city or town where the place of worship is located and assist the LBOH as reasonably requested to advise likely contacts to isolate and self-quarantine.
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Updated MA Safety, Places Of Worship, Part 2 of 3
Lower risk Massachusetts communities have been permitted to move into Step II of Phase III of Governor Baker's reopening plan. The Commonwealth defines "Lower-risk communities" as cities and towns that have not been designated in the “red” category in any of the last three weekly Department of Public Health weekly reports. Click hereto see the list of communities not designated as lower-risk communities.
To assist business owners we will be sharing highlights of the State's Updated Safety Standards and Reopening Guidelines for impacted sectors.
NOTE:COVID-19 is highly transmissible. Individuals should follow these universal precautions regardless of the extent of mitigation needed:
The current state of the COVID-19 pandemic is continually evolving. What is true today may not be tomorrow. At this time, the evidence suggests schools have not played a significant role in COVID-19 transmission and that children, particularly younger children, are less likely than adults to be infected with COVID-19.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
These sector specific COVID-19 safety standards for Places of Worship and Religious Services are issued to provide instructions to help protect against the spread of COVID-19 as the number of persons attending in-person services increases.
These standards are minimum requirements only and are not exclusive or exhaustive. The public health data and matrix for disease prevention upon which these guidelines are based can and does change frequently, and the operator of a Place of Worship is responsible for adhering to all local, state and federal requirements.
Social Distancing Seating
Seating
Attendees who are not part of the same immediate household must be seated at least 6 feet apart. Members of the same immediate household are permitted to sit together and less than 6 feet apart
If there is fixed seating, rows should be blocked off and kept empty to allow for sufficient distancing between rows
Places of worship are encouraged to place tape or other visual distancing markings on seating to delineate 6 ft separations and to post signage indicating the maximum number of persons permitted per row
Promote ventilation for enclosed spaces where possible. For example, consider opening windows and doors to allow airflow
Entering and Exiting
Places of worship are encouraged to take steps to encourage orderly entering and exiting of services in a manner that encourages social distancing. For example:
Signage or floor markings should be posted to have one-way aisles or otherwise direct attendees to follow certain pathways for entering and exiting the service
If a line forms outside of the service, those waiting should be directed to maintain social distancing. Tape or other markings on the ground outside of Places of worship should be placed to encourage attendees to maintain social distancing of at least 6 feet
Staff should direct people in high traffic areas to help maintain social distancing
Officiants or other staff should direct successive, row-by-row exiting
Recommended Best Practices
Places of worship are encouraged to modify the means to collect any financial contributions from attendees so as to eliminate shared contribution trays and baskets and to minimize contact
Consider setting up a no-touch method to collect contributions, and encouraging contributions through mail or electronic means
Places of worship are encouraged to modify communal rituals, like taking communion or passing of the peace, so as to limit contact with others
Consider distributing, where applicable, prepackaged communion or sacraments
Face Coverings
All attendees and staff must wear face coverings or masks in accordance with COVID-19 Order No. 31 and theDepartment of Public Health’s Guidance while inside and while entering and exiting places of worship or otherwise participating in in-person services, except where a person is unable to wear a face covering or mask because of a medical or disabling condition
A leader or celebrant engaged in conducting the service or making an address may remove his or her face covering while doing so, provided that he or she is able to maintain a distance of at least 6 feet from other persons present; installation of protective, plexi-glass or other transparent barriers is recommended for lecterns and other points of address 3
For children between age 2 and 5, the wearing of a face covering or mask is at the discretion of the child’s parent or guardian. Children under the age of 2 should not wear a face covering or mask
A person who declines to wear a face covering or mask because of a medical or disabling condition shall not be required to produce documentation verifying the condition
Place of worship may refuse entry to a person who refuses to wear a face covering or mask for non-medical reasons
Recommended Best Practices
Attendees should use anything that covers your nose and mouth.
Attendees face coverings should be multiple layers
Attendees masks should fit snugly, be secured with ties or ear straps, and not restrict breathing.
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Updated MA Safety, Places Of Worship, Part 1 of 3
Lower risk Massachusetts communities have been permitted to move into Step II of Phase III of Governor Baker's reopening plan. The Commonwealth defines "Lower-risk communities" as cities and towns that have not been designated in the “red” category in any of the last three weekly Department of Public Health weekly reports. Click hereto see the list of communities not designated as lower-risk communities.
To assist business owners we will be sharing highlights of the State's Updated Safety Standards and Reopening Guidelines for impacted sectors.
NOTE:COVID-19 is highly transmissible. Individuals should follow these universal precautions regardless of the extent of mitigation needed:
The current state of the COVID-19 pandemic is continually evolving. What is true today may not be tomorrow. At this time, the evidence suggests schools have not played a significant role in COVID-19 transmission and that children, particularly younger children, are less likely than adults to be infected with COVID-19.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
These sector specific COVID-19 safety standards for Places of Worship and Religious Services are issued to provide instructions to help protect against the spread of COVID-19 as the number of persons attending in-person services increases.
These standards are minimum requirements only and are not exclusive or exhaustive. The public health data and matrix for disease prevention upon which these guidelines are based can and does change frequently, and the operator of a Place of Worship is responsible for adhering to all local, state and federal requirements.
General Standards
These standards apply to all Places of Worship and Religious Services, and all services and activities including regular and holiday services, weddings, funerals, wakes, support group meetings, and other related gatherings.
Places of Worship shall communicate to members and workers that they should not attend services in person if any of the following are true:
Member or worker is experiencing any symptoms such as fever (100.0 and above) or chills, cough, shortness of breath, sore throat, fatigue, headache, muscle/body aches, runny nose/congestion, new loss of taste or smell, or nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
Member or worker has had “close contact” with an individual diagnosed with COVID-19. “Close contact” means living in the same household as a person who has tested positive for COVID-19, caring for a person who has tested positive for COVID-19, being within 6 feet of a person who has tested positive for COVID-19 for 15 minutes or more, or coming in direct contact with secretions (e.g., sharing utensils, being coughed on) from a person who has tested positive for COVID-19, while that person was symptomatic
Member or worker has been asked to self-isolate or quarantine by their doctor or a local public health official
Persons who are particularly vulnerable to COVID-19 according to the Centers for Disease Control (e.g., due to age or underlying conditions) are encouraged to stay home.
Places of Worship are encouraged to hold services virtually or outdoors and to ensure that attendees who are not from the same immediate household are spaced at least 6 feet apart. When conducting services, places of worship must abide by the following requirements.
Occupancy Limitations
For indoor services, places of worship must monitor member entries and exits and limit occupancy at all times to the greater of the following:
50% of the building’s maximum permitted occupancy as documented in its occupancy permit on record with the municipal building department or other municipal record holder
Buildings for which no permitted occupancy limitation is on record may allow 10 persons (including staff) per 1,000 square feet of accessible space
In any case, no enclosed space (e.g. a single room, basement) within the building may exceed occupancy of 10 persons per 1,000 square feet
All occupancy counts and calculations shall include attendees, staff, and other workers
If feasible, places of worship are encouraged to arrange online sign-up for services in advance in order to monitor and limit the number of attendees
Recommended Best Practices
If feasible, places of worship are encouraged to arrange online sign-up for services in advance in order to monitor and limit the number of attendees
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Updated MA Safety, Office Spaces Part 4 of 4
Lower risk Massachusetts communities have been permitted to move into Step II of Phase III of Governor Baker's reopening plan. The Commonwealth defines "Lower-risk communities" as cities and towns that have not been designated in the “red” category in any of the last three weekly Department of Public Health weekly reports. Click hereto see the list of communities not designated as lower-risk communities.
To assist business owners we will be sharing highlights of the State's Updated Safety Standards and Reopening Guidelines for impacted sectors.
NOTE:COVID-19 is highly transmissible. Individuals should follow these universal precautions regardless of the extent of mitigation needed:
The current state of the COVID-19 pandemic is continually evolving. What is true today may not be tomorrow. At this time, the evidence suggests schools have not played a significant role in COVID-19 transmission and that children, particularly younger children, are less likely than adults to be infected with COVID-19.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
These sector specific COVID-19 workplace safety standards for Office Spaces are issued to provide businesses and other organizations operating within general use office spaces and workers in these office spaces with instructions to help protect against the spread of COVID-19. Employers are encouraged to have workers continue to telework if feasible.
These standards are minimum requirements only and are not exclusive or exhaustive. The public health data and matrix for disease prevention upon which these guidelines are based can and does change frequently, and the operator of the office space is accountable for adhering to all local, state and federal requirements. The operator of the office space is also responsible for staying abreast of any updates to these requirements.
According to the state of Massachusetts no activity in office spaces can occur without meeting the following sector specific COVID-19 workplace safety standards. These standards apply to all businesses and other organizations operating in general use office space until rescinded or amended by the State.
Cleaning And Disinfecting
Always read and follow the directions on the label to ensure safe and effective use.Wear skin protection and consider eye protection for potential splash hazards Ensure adequate ventilation Use no more than the amount recommended on the label Use water at room temperature for dilution (unless stated otherwise on the label) Avoid mixing chemical products Label diluted cleaning solutions Store and use chemicals out of the reach of children and pets
Always read and follow the directions on the label to ensure safe and effective use
Wear skin protection and consider eye protection for potential splash hazards
Ensure adequate ventilation
Use no more than the amount recommended on the label
Use water at room temperature for dilution (unless stated otherwise on the label)
Avoid mixing chemical products
Label diluted cleaning solutions
Store chemicals safely according to the warning labels
Clean commonly touched surfaces in restrooms (e.g., toilet seats, doorknobs, stall handles, sinks, paper towel dispensers, soap dispensers) frequently and in accordance with CDC guidelines
Conduct frequent cleaning and disinfection of site (at least daily and more frequently if feasible)
Keep cleaning logs that include date, time, and scope of cleaning
Conduct frequent disinfecting of heavy transit areas and high-touch surfaces (e.g., doorknobs, elevator buttons, staircases, vending machine, bathrooms)
Clean shared spaces (e.g., conference rooms) between use and supply cleaning products (e.g., sanitizer, disinfecting wipes)
In event of a positive case, shut down site for a deep cleaning and disinfecting of the workplace in accordance with current CDC guidance
Open windows and doors to increase airflow where possible
Clean commonly touched surfaces in restrooms (e.g., toilet seats, doorknobs, stall handles, sinks, paper towel dispensers, soap dispensers) frequently and in accordance with CDC guidelines
Conduct frequent cleaning and disinfection of site (at least daily and more frequently if feasible)
Keep cleaning logs that include date, time, and scope of cleaning Conduct frequent disinfecting of heavy transit areas and high-touch surfaces (e.g., doorknobs, elevator buttons, staircases, vending machine, bathrooms)
Clean shared spaces (e.g., conference rooms) between use and supply cleaning products (e.g., sanitizer, disinfecting wipes) In event of a positive case, shut down site for a deep cleaning and disinfecting of the workplace in accordance with current CDC guidance
Diluted household bleach solutions can be used if appropriate for the surface. Unexpired household bleach will be effective against coronaviruses when properly diluted:
Use bleach containing 5.25%–8.25% sodium hypochlorite. Do not use a bleach product if the percentage is not in this range or is not specified.
Follow the manufacturer’s application instructions for the surface, ensuring a contact time of at least 1 minute.
Ensure proper ventilation during and after application.
Check to ensure the product is not past its expiration date.
Never mix household bleach with ammonia or any other cleanser. This can cause fumes that may be very dangerous to breathe in.
Prepare a bleach solution by mixing:
5 tablespoons (1/3rd cup) of 5.25%–8.25% bleach per gallon of room temperature water or
4 teaspoons of 5.25%–8.25% bleach per quart of room temperature water
Bleach solutions will be effective for disinfection up to 24 hours.
Alcohol solutions with at least 70% alcohol may also be used.
For electronics such as tablets, touch screens, keyboards, remote controls, and ATM machines, remove visible contamination if present.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for all cleaning and disinfection products.
Consider use of wipeable covers for electronics.
If no manufacturer guidance is available, consider the use of alcohol-based wipes or sprays containing at least 70% alcohol to disinfect touch screens. Dry surfaces thoroughly to avoid pooling of liquids.
Recommended Best Practices
Open windows and doors to increase airflow where possible
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Lower risk Massachusetts communities have been permitted to move into Step II of Phase III of Governor Baker's reopening plan. The Commonwealth defines "Lower-risk communities" as cities and towns that have not been designated in the “red” category in any of the last three weekly Department of Public Health weekly reports. Click hereto see the list of communities not designated as lower-risk communities.
To assist business owners we will be sharing highlights of the State's Updated Safety Standards and Reopening Guidelines for impacted sectors.
NOTE:COVID-19 is highly transmissible. Individuals should follow these universal precautions regardless of the extent of mitigation needed:
The current state of the COVID-19 pandemic is continually evolving. What is true today may not be tomorrow. At this time, the evidence suggests schools have not played a significant role in COVID-19 transmission and that children, particularly younger children, are less likely than adults to be infected with COVID-19.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
These sector specific COVID-19 workplace safety standards for Office Spaces are issued to provide businesses and other organizations operating within general use office spaces and workers in these office spaces with instructions to help protect against the spread of COVID-19. Employers are encouraged to have workers continue to telework if feasible.
These standards are minimum requirements only and are not exclusive or exhaustive. The public health data and matrix for disease prevention upon which these guidelines are based can and does change frequently, and the operator of the office space is accountable for adhering to all local, state and federal requirements. The operator of the office space is also responsible for staying abreast of any updates to these requirements.
According to the state of Massachusetts no activity in office spaces can occur without meeting the following sector specific COVID-19 workplace safety standards. These standards apply to all businesses and other organizations operating in general use office space until rescinded or amended by the State.
Staffing and Operations Cont.
Workers must wear face coverings when social distancing of 6 feet is not possible, except where unsafe due to medical condition or disability
Employers are encouraged to have workers continue to telework if feasible; external meetings should be remote to reduce density in the office
Employers should establish adjusted workplace hours and shifts for workers (if working in person, leverage working teams with different schedules or staggered arrival / departure) to minimize contact across workers and reduce congestion at entry points
Limit visitors and service providers on site; shipping and deliveries should be completed in designated areas
For guidance on business-sponsored travel, refer to the Commonwealth's current out-of-state travel order: mass.gov/MAtraveler. Employers are strongly discouraged from allowing business related travel to destinations other than those appearing on the Department of Public Health’s list of COVID-19 lower risk States. Employers that permit employer-paid or -reimbursed travel to those States should take measures to ensure employees comply with this order. Employers are also urged to strongly discourage their employees from taking leisure travel to destinations not included on the list of COVID-19 lower-risk States
Workers must stay home if feeling ill
Workers who are particularly vulnerable to COVID-19 according to the Centers for Disease Control (e.g., due to age or underlying conditions) are encouraged to stay home or arrange an alternate work assignment
Workers are strongly encouraged to self-identify symptoms or any close contact to a known or suspected COVID-19 case to the employer
Encourage workers who test positive for COVID-19 to disclose to the workplace employer for purposes of cleaning / disinfecting and contact tracing. If the employer is notified of a positive case at the workplace, the employer shall notify the local Board of Health (LBOH) in the city or town where the workplace is located and assist the LBOH as reasonably requested to advise likely contacts to isolate and self-quarantine. Testing of other workers may be recommended consistent with guidance and / or at the request of the LBOH
Post notice to workers and customers of important health information and relevant safety measures as outlined in the Commonwealth’s Mandatory Safety Standards for Workplace
Offices should maintain operating hours that allow for on-going off-hour sanitation and cleaning
Allow water fountains to be used as refill stations only, provided that social distancing can be maintained. Workers should bring their own water bottles
Additional on-site amenities and services may only open and operate when those amenities or services would otherwise be authorized to operate under the Commonwealth’s Phased Reopening Plan and then must adhere to all sector-specific safety protocols, available on the Reopening Plan website, applicable to the amenity or service. Examples include:
Cafeterias: Must follow the latest restaurant guidance
Recommended Best Practices
Employers are encouraged to have workers continue to telework if feasible; external meetings should be remote to reduce density in the office
Workers who are particularly vulnerable to COVID-19 according to the Centers for Disease Control (e.g., due to age or underlying conditions) are encouraged to stay home or arrange an alternate work assignment
Workers are strongly encouraged to self-identify symptoms or any close contact to a known or suspected COVID-19 case to the employer
Encourage workers who test positive for COVID-19 to disclose to the workplace employer for purposes of cleaning / disinfecting and contact tracing
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Updated MA Safety, Office Spaces Part 3 of 4
Lower risk Massachusetts communities have been permitted to move into Step II of Phase III of Governor Baker's reopening plan. The Commonwealth defines "Lower-risk communities" as cities and towns that have not been designated in the “red” category in any of the last three weekly Department of Public Health weekly reports. Click hereto see the list of communities not designated as lower-risk communities.
To assist business owners we will be sharing highlights of the State's Updated Safety Standards and Reopening Guidelines for impacted sectors.
NOTE:COVID-19 is highly transmissible. Individuals should follow these universal precautions regardless of the extent of mitigation needed:
The current state of the COVID-19 pandemic is continually evolving. What is true today may not be tomorrow. At this time, the evidence suggests schools have not played a significant role in COVID-19 transmission and that children, particularly younger children, are less likely than adults to be infected with COVID-19.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
These sector specific COVID-19 workplace safety standards for Office Spaces are issued to provide businesses and other organizations operating within general use office spaces and workers in these office spaces with instructions to help protect against the spread of COVID-19. Employers are encouraged to have workers continue to telework if feasible.
These standards are minimum requirements only and are not exclusive or exhaustive. The public health data and matrix for disease prevention upon which these guidelines are based can and does change frequently, and the operator of the office space is accountable for adhering to all local, state and federal requirements. The operator of the office space is also responsible for staying abreast of any updates to these requirements.
According to the state of Massachusetts no activity in office spaces can occur without meeting the following sector specific COVID-19 workplace safety standards. These standards apply to all businesses and other organizations operating in general use office space until rescinded or amended by the State.
Staffing and Operations Cont.
Workers must wear face coverings when social distancing of 6 feet is not possible, except where unsafe due to medical condition or disability
Employers are encouraged to have workers continue to telework if feasible; external meetings should be remote to reduce density in the office
Employers should establish adjusted workplace hours and shifts for workers (if working in person, leverage working teams with different schedules or staggered arrival / departure) to minimize contact across workers and reduce congestion at entry points
Limit visitors and service providers on site; shipping and deliveries should be completed in designated areas
For guidance on business-sponsored travel, refer to the Commonwealth's current out-of-state travel order: mass.gov/MAtraveler. Employers are strongly discouraged from allowing business related travel to destinations other than those appearing on the Department of Public Health’s list of COVID-19 lower risk States. Employers that permit employer-paid or -reimbursed travel to those States should take measures to ensure employees comply with this order. Employers are also urged to strongly discourage their employees from taking leisure travel to destinations not included on the list of COVID-19 lower-risk States
Workers must stay home if feeling ill
Workers who are particularly vulnerable to COVID-19 according to the Centers for Disease Control (e.g., due to age or underlying conditions) are encouraged to stay home or arrange an alternate work assignment
Workers are strongly encouraged to self-identify symptoms or any close contact to a known or suspected COVID-19 case to the employer
Encourage workers who test positive for COVID-19 to disclose to the workplace employer for purposes of cleaning / disinfecting and contact tracing. If the employer is notified of a positive case at the workplace, the employer shall notify the local Board of Health (LBOH) in the city or town where the workplace is located and assist the LBOH as reasonably requested to advise likely contacts to isolate and self-quarantine. Testing of other workers may be recommended consistent with guidance and / or at the request of the LBOH
Post notice to workers and customers of important health information and relevant safety measures as outlined in the Commonwealth’s Mandatory Safety Standards for Workplace
Offices should maintain operating hours that allow for on-going off-hour sanitation and cleaning
Allow water fountains to be used as refill stations only, provided that social distancing can be maintained. Workers should bring their own water bottles
Additional on-site amenities and services may only open and operate when those amenities or services would otherwise be authorized to operate under the Commonwealth’s Phased Reopening Plan and then must adhere to all sector-specific safety protocols, available on the Reopening Plan website, applicable to the amenity or service. Examples include:
Cafeterias: Must follow the latest restaurant guidance
Recommended Best Practices
Employers are encouraged to have workers continue to telework if feasible; external meetings should be remote to reduce density in the office
Workers who are particularly vulnerable to COVID-19 according to the Centers for Disease Control (e.g., due to age or underlying conditions) are encouraged to stay home or arrange an alternate work assignment
Workers are strongly encouraged to self-identify symptoms or any close contact to a known or suspected COVID-19 case to the employer
Encourage workers who test positive for COVID-19 to disclose to the workplace employer for purposes of cleaning / disinfecting and contact tracing
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Updated MA Safety, Office Spaces Part 2 of 4
Lower risk Massachusetts communities have been permitted to move into Step II of Phase III of Governor Baker's reopening plan. The Commonwealth defines "Lower-risk communities" as cities and towns that have not been designated in the “red” category in any of the last three weekly Department of Public Health weekly reports. Click hereto see the list of communities not designated as lower-risk communities.
To assist business owners we will be sharing highlights of the State's Updated Safety Standards and Reopening Guidelines for impacted sectors.
NOTE:COVID-19 is highly transmissible. Individuals should follow these universal precautions regardless of the extent of mitigation needed:
The current state of the COVID-19 pandemic is continually evolving. What is true today may not be tomorrow. At this time, the evidence suggests schools have not played a significant role in COVID-19 transmission and that children, particularly younger children, are less likely than adults to be infected with COVID-19.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
These sector specific COVID-19 workplace safety standards for Office Spaces are issued to provide businesses and other organizations operating within general use office spaces and workers in these office spaces with instructions to help protect against the spread of COVID-19. Employers are encouraged to have workers continue to telework if feasible.
These standards are minimum requirements only and are not exclusive or exhaustive. The public health data and matrix for disease prevention upon which these guidelines are based can and does change frequently, and the operator of the office space is accountable for adhering to all local, state and federal requirements. The operator of the office space is also responsible for staying abreast of any updates to these requirements.
According to the state of Massachusetts no activity in office spaces can occur without meeting the following sector specific COVID-19 workplace safety standards. These standards apply to all businesses and other organizations operating in general use office space until rescinded or amended by the State.
Hygiene Protocols
Ensure access to handwashing facilities on site, including soap and running water, wherever possible and encourage frequent handwashing; alcohol-based hand sanitizers with at least 60% alcohol may be used as an alternative
Supply workers at workplace location with adequate cleaning products (e.g., sanitizer, disinfecting wipes)
Post visible signage throughout the site to remind workers of the hygiene and safety protocols
Alcohol-based hand sanitizers with at least 60% alcohol should be made available at entrances and throughout floor areas for workers
Require regular and not less than daily cleaning and sanitation of all high-touch areas such as workstations, door handles, and restrooms
Avoid sharing office materials / equipment or disinfect equipment between use (e.g., telephones, fax machines)
Recommended Best Practices
Provide hand washing capabilities throughout the workplace
Ensure frequent hand washing by employees and adequate supplies to do so
Provide regular sanitization of high touch areas, such as workstations, equipment, screens, doorknobs, restrooms throughout work site
Staffing and Operations
Provide training to workers on up-to-date safety information and precautions including hygiene and other measures aimed at reducing disease transmission, including:
Social distancing, hand-washing, proper use of face coverings
Self-screening at home, including temperature and symptom checks
Importance of not coming to work if ill
When to seek medical attention if symptoms become severe
Which underlying health conditions may make individuals more susceptible to contracting and suffering from a severe case of the virus
Facilities must screen workers at each shift by ensuring the following:
Worker is not experiencing any symptoms such as fever (100.0 and above) or chills, cough, shortness of breath, sore throat, fatigue, headache, muscle/body aches, runny nose/congestion, new loss of taste or smell, or nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
Worker has not had “close contact” with an individual diagnosed with COVID-19. “Close contact” means living in the same household as a person who has tested positive for COVID-19, caring for a person who has tested positive for COVID-19, being within 6 feet of a person who has tested positive for COVID-19 for 15 minutes or more, or coming in direct contact with secretions (e.g., sharing utensils, being coughed on) from a person who has tested positive for COVID-19, while that person was symptomatic
Worker has not been asked to self-isolate or quarantine by their doctor or a local public health official
Workers who fail to meet the above criteria must be sent home
Adjust workplace hours and shifts (leverage working teams with different schedules or staggered arrival / departure) to minimize contact across workers and reduce congestion at entry points
Maintain a log of workers and customers to support contact tracing (name, date, time, contact information) if needed
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Updated MA Safety, Office Spaces Part 1 of 4
Lower risk Massachusetts communities have been permitted to move into Step II of Phase III of Governor Baker's reopening plan. The Commonwealth defines "Lower-risk communities" as cities and towns that have not been designated in the “red” category in any of the last three weekly Department of Public Health weekly reports. Click hereto see the list of communities not designated as lower-risk communities.
To assist business owners we will be sharing highlights of the State's Updated Safety Standards and Reopening Guidelines for impacted sectors.
NOTE:COVID-19 is highly transmissible. Individuals should follow these universal precautions regardless of the extent of mitigation needed:
The current state of the COVID-19 pandemic is continually evolving. What is true today may not be tomorrow. At this time, the evidence suggests schools have not played a significant role in COVID-19 transmission and that children, particularly younger children, are less likely than adults to be infected with COVID-19.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
These sector specific COVID-19 workplace safety standards for Office Spaces are issued to provide businesses and other organizations operating within general use office spaces and workers in these office spaces with instructions to help protect against the spread of COVID-19. Employers are encouraged to have workers continue to telework if feasible.
These standards are minimum requirements only and are not exclusive or exhaustive. The public health data and matrix for disease prevention upon which these guidelines are based can and does change frequently, and the operator of the office space is accountable for adhering to all local, state and federal requirements. The operator of the office space is also responsible for staying abreast of any updates to these requirements.
According to the state of Massachusetts no activity in office spaces can occur without meeting the following sector specific COVID-19 workplace safety standards. These standards apply to all businesses and other organizations operating in general use office space until rescinded or amended by the State.
Social Distancing
Each office must monitor customer and worker entries and exits and limit occupancy at all times to the greater of the following:
50% of the building’s maximum permitted occupancy as documented in its occupancy permit on record with the municipal building department or other municipal record holder
Buildings for which no permitted occupancy limitation is on record may allow 10 persons (including staff) per 1,000 square feet of accessible space
In any case, no enclosed space within the facility may exceed occupancy of 10 persons per 1,000 square feet
All occupancy counts and calculations shall include customers, staff, and other workers
Businesses and other organizations may exceed this maximum occupancy level based on a demonstrated need for relief based on public health or public safety considerations or where strict compliance may interfere with the continued delivery of critical services
Ensure separation of 6 feet or more between individuals unless this creates a safety hazard due to the nature of the work or the configuration of the workspace
Close or reconfigure worker common spaces and high density areas where workers are likely to congregate (e.g., break rooms, eating areas) to allow 6 feet of physical distancing; redesign work stations to ensure physical distancing (e.g., separate tables, use distance markers to assure spacing)
Cafeterias must practice physical distancing and appropriate hygiene measures and may allow indoor and /or outdoor seating according to Restaurant guidance
Physical partitions separating workstations must be installed for areas that cannot be spaced out. Physical partitions must be at least 6 feet in height
Establish directional hallways and passageways for foot traffic if possible, to minimize contact. Post clearly visible signage regarding these policies
Limit visitors where feasible, and avoid congregation in common areas (e.g., lobbies)
Mark rooms and hallways to indicate 6 feet separation
Designate assigned working areas (e.g., floor, building) to individuals where possible to limit movement throughout the facility and limit contact between workers
Stagger work schedules and improve ventilation for enclosed spaces where possible (e.g., open doors and windows)
Limit meeting sizes, ensure 6 feet of social distancing, and encourage remote participation
Stagger lunch and break times, regulating maximum number of people in one place and ensuring at least 6 feet of physical distancing
Minimize the use of confined spaces (e.g., elevators, control rooms, vehicles) by more than one individual at a time; all workers in such spaces at the same time are required to wear face coverings
Recommended Best Practices
Designate assigned working areas (e.g., floor, building) to individuals where possible to limit movement throughout the facility and limit contact between workers
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Updated MA Safety, Museums And Guided Tours Part 4 of 4
Lower risk Massachusetts communities have been permitted to move into Step II of Phase III of Governor Baker's reopening plan. The Commonwealth defines "Lower-risk communities" as cities and towns that have not been designated in the “red” category in any of the last three weekly Department of Public Health weekly reports. Click hereto see the list of communities not designated as lower-risk communities.
To assist business owners we will be sharing highlights of the State's Updated Safety Standards and Reopening Guidelines for impacted sectors.
NOTE:COVID-19 is highly transmissible. Individuals should follow these universal precautions regardless of the extent of mitigation needed:
The current state of the COVID-19 pandemic is continually evolving. What is true today may not be tomorrow. At this time, the evidence suggests schools have not played a significant role in COVID-19 transmission and that children, particularly younger children, are less likely than adults to be infected with COVID-19.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
These sector specific COVID-19 workplace safety are issued to provide owners and operators of these facilities and workers and visitors with instructions to help protect against the spread of COVID-19 as Museums re-open. Facilities addressed under the term “Museum” below include Museums, Aquariums, indoor and outdoor Historic Spaces and Sites, and Guided Tours.
These standards are minimum requirements only and are not exclusive or exhaustive. The public health data and matrix upon which these guidelines are based can and does change frequently, and the owner or operator for each Museum is accountable for staying abreast of any updates to these requirements.
No activity at Museums shall occur without meeting these sector specific COVID-19 workplace safety standards. These standards apply until rescinded or amended by the State. Owners of Museums, Cultural and Historical Facilities, and Guided Tours shall be responsible for meeting these standards.
Staffing and Operations Cont.
Facilities must screen workers at each shift by ensuring the following:
Worker is not experiencing any symptoms such as fever (100.0 and above) or chills, cough,shortness of breath, sore throat, fatigue, headache, muscle/body aches, runny nose/congestion, new loss of taste or smell, or nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
Worker has not had “close contact” with an individual diagnosed with COVID-19. “Close contact” means living in the same household as a person who has tested positive for COVID-19, caring for a person who has tested positive for COVID-19, being within 6 feet of a person who has tested positive for COVID-19 for 15 minutes or more, or coming in direct contact with secretions (e.g., sharing utensils, being coughed on) from a person who has tested positive for COVID-19
Worker has not been asked to self-isolate or quarantine by their doctor or a local public health official
Workers who fail to meet the above criteria must be sent home
Maintain a log of workers and visitors to support potential contact tracing (name, date, time, contact information)
Workers shall not appear for work or complete a shift if feeling ill
Workers who are particularly vulnerable to COVID-19 according to the Centers for Disease Control (e.g., due to age or underlying conditions) are encouraged to stay home
Workers are strongly encouraged to self-identify symptoms or any close contact to a known or suspected COVID-19 case to the employer
Encourage workers who test positive for COVID-19 to disclose to the workplace employer for purposes of cleaning / disinfecting and contact tracing. If the employer is notified of any positive case at the workplace, the employer shall notify the local Board of Health (LBOH) in the city or town where the workplace is located.
Employers must assist the LBOH with contact tracing efforts, including advising likely contacts to isolate and self-quarantine. Testing of other workers may be recommended consistent with guidance and / or at the request of the LBOH
Interactive exhibits (i.e., touch and feel exhibits, play areas) should be closed or be configured with 6 feet of distancing clearly marked and receive frequent cleaning and disinfection. Hand hygiene station (soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizer) should be accessible to promote safe use
Additional on-site amenities and services may only open and operate when those amenities or services would otherwise be authorized to operate under the Commonwealth’s Phased Reopening Planand then must adhere to all sector-specific safety protocols, available on the Reopening Plan website, applicable to the amenity or service. Examples include:
Restaurants: Must follow the latest restaurant guidance
Gift shops: Must follow the latest retail guidance
Performance venues: Must follow the latest performance venue guidance
Events: Must follow the latest indoor and outdoor events guidance
Recommended Best Practices
Workers who are particularly vulnerable to COVID-19 according to the Centers for Disease Control (e.g., due to age or underlying conditions) are encouraged to stay home
Workers are strongly encouraged to self-identify symptoms or any close contact to a known or suspected COVID-19 case to the employer
Encourage workers who test positive for COVID-19 to disclose to the workplace employer for purposes of cleaning / disinfecting and contact tracing
Cleaning and Disinfecting
Clean commonly touched surfaces in restrooms (e.g., toilet seats, doorknobs, stall handles, sinks, paper towel dispensers, soap dispensers) frequently and in accordance with CDC guidelines
Conduct frequent cleaning and disinfection of site (at least daily and more frequently if feasible)
Keep cleaning logs that include date, time, and scope of cleaning
Conduct frequent disinfecting of heavy transit areas and high-touch surfaces (e.g., doorknobs, bathrooms, ticket counters, staff break rooms)
In event of a positive case, shut down site for a deep cleaning and disinfecting of the workplace in accordance with current CDC guidance
Open windows and doors to increase airflow where possible
Recommended Best Practices
Open windows and doors to increase airflow where possible
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Updated MA Safety, Museums And Guided Tours Part 3 of 4
Lower risk Massachusetts communities have been permitted to move into Step II of Phase III of Governor Baker's reopening plan. The Commonwealth defines "Lower-risk communities" as cities and towns that have not been designated in the “red” category in any of the last three weekly Department of Public Health weekly reports. Click hereto see the list of communities not designated as lower-risk communities.
To assist business owners we will be sharing highlights of the State's Updated Safety Standards and Reopening Guidelines for impacted sectors.
NOTE:COVID-19 is highly transmissible. Individuals should follow these universal precautions regardless of the extent of mitigation needed:
The current state of the COVID-19 pandemic is continually evolving. What is true today may not be tomorrow. At this time, the evidence suggests schools have not played a significant role in COVID-19 transmission and that children, particularly younger children, are less likely than adults to be infected with COVID-19.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
These sector specific COVID-19 workplace safety are issued to provide owners and operators of these facilities and workers and visitors with instructions to help protect against the spread of COVID-19 as Museums re-open. Facilities addressed under the term “Museum” below include Museums, Aquariums, indoor and outdoor Historic Spaces and Sites, and Guided Tours.
These standards are minimum requirements only and are not exclusive or exhaustive. The public health data and matrix upon which these guidelines are based can and does change frequently, and the owner or operator for each Museum is accountable for staying abreast of any updates to these requirements.
No activity at Museums shall occur without meeting these sector specific COVID-19 workplace safety standards. These standards apply until rescinded or amended by the State. Owners of Museums, Cultural and Historical Facilities, and Guided Tours shall be responsible for meeting these standards.
Group Size Limitations For Guided Tours
Each tour operator using a bus or other vehicle (such as a trolley, harbor cruise vessel, or duck boat) must limit occupancy at all times to 50% of the tour, vehicle or vessel’s maximum permitted occupancy as documented in its occupancy permit on record with the relevant municipal record holder
Occupancy limitations for boat tours using vessels with open deck space that can be used to accommodate passengers shall be determined in accordance with the formula used to set charter boat occupancy limits, outlined in the Workplace Safety and Reopening Standards for For-Hire and Charter Vessels
Tours of spaces for which no permitted occupancy limitation is on record must limit occupancy based on the Indoor and Outdoor Event guidance on the Reopening Website
All occupant counts and calculations shall include customers and workers
Groups of passengers should be separated on the vehicle by empty seats. If that is not possible, vehicles should stagger open rows
Tour operators must limit group size in walking tours to groups of no more than 10 persons, excluding guides, Recommend limiting tour parties to members of the same household only
Guides and guests should maintain 6 feet of distance and wear face coverings
Recommended Best Practices
Museums are encouraged to offer exclusive hours or other accommodations for those in high-risk populations as defined by the CDC
Encourage online ticket sales and contactless payment methods if possible
Consider using timed entry tickets / reservations and imposing time limits for visits to ensure compliance with occupancy limits
Recommend limiting tour parties to members of the same household only
Hygiene Protocols
Ensure access to handwashing facilities on site, including soap and running water, wherever possible and encourage frequent handwashing; alcohol-based hand sanitizers with at least 60% alcohol may be used as an alternative Supply workers at workplace location with adequate cleaning products (e.g., sanitizer, disinfecting wipes)
Alcohol-based hand sanitizers with at least 60% alcohol should be made available at entrances, exits, and throughout floor areas for both workers and visitors
Avoid sharing equipment and supplies between workers
Disinfect shared equipment before use by another employee
Post visible signage throughout the site to remind workers of hygiene and safety protocols
Staffing and Operations
Provide training to workers on up-to-date safety information and precautions including hygiene and other measures aimed at reducing disease transmission, including:
Social distancing, hand-washing, proper use of face coverings
Self-screening at home, including temperature and symptom checks
Reinforce that staff shall not coming to work if ill
When to seek medical attention if symptoms become severe
Which underlying health conditions may make individuals more susceptible to contracting and suffering from a severe case of the virus
Adjust workplace hours and shifts (leverage working teams with different schedules or staggered arrival / departure) to minimize contact across workers and reduce congestion at entry points
Facilities should maintain operating hours that allow for on-going off-hour sanitation and cleaning
Limit visitors and service providers on site; shipping and deliveries should be completed in designated areas
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Updated MA Safety, Museums And Guided Tours Part 2 of 4
Lower risk Massachusetts communities have been permitted to move into Step II of Phase III of Governor Baker's reopening plan. The Commonwealth defines "Lower-risk communities" as cities and towns that have not been designated in the “red” category in any of the last three weekly Department of Public Health weekly reports. Click hereto see the list of communities not designated as lower-risk communities.
To assist business owners we will be sharing highlights of the State's Updated Safety Standards and Reopening Guidelines for impacted sectors.
NOTE:COVID-19 is highly transmissible. Individuals should follow these universal precautions regardless of the extent of mitigation needed:
The current state of the COVID-19 pandemic is continually evolving. What is true today may not be tomorrow. At this time, the evidence suggests schools have not played a significant role in COVID-19 transmission and that children, particularly younger children, are less likely than adults to be infected with COVID-19.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
These sector specific COVID-19 workplace safety are issued to provide owners and operators of these facilities and workers and visitors with instructions to help protect against the spread of COVID-19 as Museums re-open. Facilities addressed under the term “Museum” below include Museums, Aquariums, indoor and outdoor Historic Spaces and Sites, and Guided Tours.
These standards are minimum requirements only and are not exclusive or exhaustive. The public health data and matrix upon which these guidelines are based can and does change frequently, and the owner or operator for each Museum is accountable for staying abreast of any updates to these requirements.
No activity at Museums shall occur without meeting these sector specific COVID-19 workplace safety standards. These standards apply until rescinded or amended by the State. Owners of Museums, Cultural and Historical Facilities, and Guided Tours shall be responsible for meeting these standards.
Staffing And Operations
Require face coverings for all workers and visitors, except where unsafe due to medical condition or disability
In Phase 3, Step 1 each museum must monitor visitor entries and exits and limit occupancy for each building open to the public at all times to:
40% of the museum’s maximum permitted occupancy as documented in its occupancy permit on record with the municipal building department or other municipal record holder
Facilities for which no permitted occupancy limitation is on record may allow up to 8 persons (including staff) per 1,000 square feet of accessible indoor or outdoor space
In any case, no enclosed space within the facility shall exceed occupancy of 8 persons per 1,000 square feet
In Phase 3 Step 2, each facility must monitor visitor entries and exits, ensure social distancing, and limit occupancy at all times to:
50% of the facility’s maximum permitted occupancy as documented in its occupancy permit on record with the municipal building department or other municipal record holder
Facilities for which no permitted occupancy limitation is on record may allow up to 10 persons per 1,000 square feet of accessible indoor or outdoor space
In any case, no enclosed space within the facility shall exceed occupancy of 10 persons per 1,000 square feet
All occupant counts and calculations shall include customers, staff, and other workers
Post clearly visible signage regarding the need to maintain 6 feet of social distancing and not to enter a room until that distancing can be maintained
Museums are encouraged to offer exclusive hours or other accommodations for those in high risk populations as defined by the CDC
Ensure separation of 6 feet or more between individuals where possible:
Close or reconfigure worker common spaces and high density areas where workers are likely to congregate (e.g., break rooms, eating areas) to allow social distancing
Physical partitions must separate workstations that cannot be spaced out (partitions must be at least 6 feet in height)
Install physical barriers for ticket counters, checkout stations, etc. where possible o Install visual social distancing markers to encourage visitors to remain 6 feet apart (e.g., lines outside of the museum if applicable, lines to make payments, lines to use the restroom)
Mark exhibit rooms and hallways to indicate 6 feet separation
Establish directional pathways to manage visitor flow for foot traffic, if possible, to minimize contact (e.g., one-way entrance and exit to rooms / exhibits, one-way pathways). Post clearly visible signage regarding these policies
Stagger lunch and break times, regulating max number of people in one place and ensuring at least 6 feet of physical distancing
Encourage online ticket sales and contactless payment methods if possible
Consider using timed entry tickets / reservations and imposing time limits for visits to ensure compliance with occupancy limits
Encourage the use of electronic versions of guide materials (such as brochures and gallery guides) where possible. All physical guide materials (such as paper brochures, gallery guides, and audio guides) must be discarded or sanitized between use. Any self-serve racks must be removed, and all materials must be handed out individually
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Updated MA Safety, Museums And Guided Tours Part 1 of 4
Lower risk Massachusetts communities have been permitted to move into Step II of Phase III of Governor Baker's reopening plan. The Commonwealth defines "Lower-risk communities" as cities and towns that have not been designated in the “red” category in any of the last three weekly Department of Public Health weekly reports. Click hereto see the list of communities not designated as lower-risk communities.
To assist business owners we will be sharing highlights of the State's Updated Safety Standards and Reopening Guidelines for impacted sectors.
NOTE:COVID-19 is highly transmissible. Individuals should follow these universal precautions regardless of the extent of mitigation needed:
The current state of the COVID-19 pandemic is continually evolving. What is true today may not be tomorrow. At this time, the evidence suggests schools have not played a significant role in COVID-19 transmission and that children, particularly younger children, are less likely than adults to be infected with COVID-19.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
These sector specific COVID-19 workplace safety are issued to provide owners and operators of these facilities and workers and visitors with instructions to help protect against the spread of COVID-19 as Museums re-open. Facilities addressed under the term “Museum” below include Museums, Aquariums, indoor and outdoor Historic Spaces and Sites, and Guided Tours.
These standards are minimum requirements only and are not exclusive or exhaustive. The public health data and matrix upon which these guidelines are based can and does change frequently, and the owner or operator for each Museum is accountable for staying abreast of any updates to these requirements.
No activity at Museums shall occur without meeting these sector specific COVID-19 workplace safety standards. These standards apply until rescinded or amended by the State. Owners of Museums, Cultural and Historical Facilities, and Guided Tours shall be responsible for meeting these standards.
Social Distancing And Capacity Limits
Require face coverings for all workers and visitors, except where unsafe due to medical condition or disability
In Phase 3, Step 1 each museum must monitor visitor entries and exits and limit occupancy for each building open to the public at all times to:
40% of the museum’s maximum permitted occupancy as documented in its occupancy permit on record with the municipal building department or other municipal record holder
Facilities for which no permitted occupancy limitation is on record may allow up to 8 persons (including staff) per 1,000 square feet of accessible indoor or outdoor space
In any case, no enclosed space within the facility shall exceed occupancy of 8 persons per 1,000 square feet
In Phase 3 Step 2, each facility must monitor visitor entries and exits, ensure social distancing, and limit occupancy at all times to:
50% of the facility’s maximum permitted occupancy as documented in its occupancy permit on record with the municipal building department or other municipal record holder
Facilities for which no permitted occupancy limitation is on record may allow up to 10 persons per 1,000 square feet of accessible indoor or outdoor space
In any case, no enclosed space within the facility shall exceed occupancy of 10 persons per 1,000 square feet
All occupant counts and calculations shall include customers, staff, and other workers
Post clearly visible signage regarding the need to maintain 6 feet of social distancing and not to enter a room until that distancing can be maintained
Museums are encouraged to offer exclusive hours or other accommodations for those in high risk populations as defined by the CDC
Ensure separation of 6 feet or more between individuals where possible:
Close or reconfigure worker common spaces and high density areas where workers are likely to congregate (e.g., break rooms, eating areas) to allow social distancing
Physical partitions must separate workstations that cannot be spaced out (partitions must be at least 6 feet in height)
Install physical barriers for ticket counters, checkout stations, etc. where possible
Install visual social distancing markers to encourage visitors to remain 6 feet apart (e.g., lines outside of the museum if applicable, lines to make payments, lines to use the restroom)
Mark exhibit rooms and hallways to indicate 6 feet separation
Establish directional pathways to manage visitor flow for foot traffic, if possible, to minimize contact (e.g., one-way entrance and exit to rooms / exhibits, one-way pathways). Post clearly visible signage regarding these policies
Stagger lunch and break times, regulating max number of people in one place and ensuring at least 6 feet of physical distancing
Encourage online ticket sales and contactless payment methods if possible
Consider using timed entry tickets / reservations and imposing time limits for visits to ensure compliance with occupancy limits
Encourage the use of electronic versions of guide materials (such as brochures and gallery guides) where possible. All physical guide materials (such as paper brochures, gallery guides, and audio guides) must be discarded or sanitized between use. Any self-serve racks must be removed, and all materials must be handed out individually
Recommended Best Practices
Museums are encouraged to offer exclusive hours or other accommodations for those in high-risk populations as defined by the CDC
Encourage online ticket sales and contactless payment methods if possible
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Updated MA Safety, Fitness & Health Clubs Part 3 of 3
Lower risk Massachusetts communities have been permitted to move into Step II of Phase III of Governor Baker's reopening plan. The Commonwealth defines "Lower-risk communities" as cities and towns that have not been designated in the “red” category in any of the last three weekly Department of Public Health weekly reports. Click hereto see the list of communities not designated as lower-risk communities.
To assist business owners we will be sharing highlights of the State's Updated Safety Standards and Reopening Guidelines for impacted sectors.
NOTE:COVID-19 is highly transmissible. Individuals should follow these universal precautions regardless of the extent of mitigation needed:
The current state of the COVID-19 pandemic is continually evolving. What is true today may not be tomorrow. At this time, the evidence suggests schools have not played a significant role in COVID-19 transmission and that children, particularly younger children, are less likely than adults to be infected with COVID-19.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
The state of Massachusetts defines Fitness Centers and Health Clubs as any fitness facility that provides access to and/or instruction of personal fitness training, including but not limited to fitness activities such as:
Weight and resistance training
Crosstraining
Yoga
Spin classes
Boot camp training
Indoor and outdoor athletic facilities, such as those for gymnastics, tennis, and swimming (whether a standalone facility or part of a Fitness Center or Health Club) must follow the Youth and Adult Sports guidance and the Pools guidance, available on the EEA Reopening Site.
Staffing And Operations Cont.
Clearly designate staff responsible for sanitizing, cleaning, and supervision during each shift
Workers must stay home if feeling ill
If the employer is notified of a positive case at the workplace, the employer shall notify the local Board of Health (LBOH) in the city or town where the workplace is located and assist the LBOH as reasonably requested to advise likely contacts to isolate and self-quarantine. Testing of other workers may be recommended consistent with CDC or DPH guidance and / or at the request of the LBOH
Post notice to workers and visitors of important health information and relevant safety measures as outlined in the Commonwealth’s Mandatory Safety Standards for Workplace
Close or mark lockers to enforce 6 feet social distancing, especially in locker rooms. Lockers should be sanitized after each use. Gyms should provide sanitizing wipes near the lockers or in the locker room
Individual and communal shower areas may open but should be limited to 50% capacity. Social distancing of at least 6 feet is required for all individuals in shower and locker room areas. Showers that accompany pools may follow guidance for pools located on the Reopening Website
Require that towels be stored in clearly labeled (clean vs. soiled) sanitary containers. Appropriate temperatures should be used when washing and drying towels. Employees must wear proper protective equipment (gloves and face covering) while handling towels. Towels should not be shaken out
Operations of related services may be allowed to open and must follow sector-specific safety protocols for each setting. Some examples include:
In-facility child-care: Must follow child-care guidance
Bars/food services: Must follow restaurant guidance
Pools: Must follow pool guidance
Athletic facilities (e.g., tennis courts): Must follow adult and youth sports guidance
Massage: Must follow close contact personal services guidance
Saunas, hot-tubs, and steam rooms: May not open before Phase 4
Fans should not be used indoors and should only be used for outdoor classes if directed away from other customers
For indoor and outdoor sports guidance, please refer to theEEA Reopening Site
Recommended Best Practices
Consider creating “shifts” for customers engaging in unstructured exercise (i.e., open weight rooms) by using a reservation system in order to enforce occupancy limits
Workers who are particularly high risk to COVID-19 according to the Centers for Disease Control (e.g., due to age or underlying conditions) are encouraged to stay home
Encourage workers to self-identify symptoms or any close contact to a known or suspected COVID-19 case to the employer
Encourage workers who test positive for COVID-19 to disclose to the workplace employer for purposes of cleaning / disinfecting and contact tracing
Consider setting aside specific hours of operation exclusively for vulnerable populations
Limit employees to discrete work zones to minimize overlap where possible
Cleaning And Disinfecting
Clean commonly touched surfaces in restrooms (e.g., toilet seats, doorknobs, stall handles, sinks, paper towel dispensers, soap dispensers) frequently and in accordance with CDC guidelines
Conduct frequent cleaning and disinfection of site (at least daily, and more frequently if feasible)
Keep cleaning logs that include date, time, and scope of cleaning
Conduct frequent disinfecting of heavily transited areas and high-touch surfaces (e.g., doorknobs, handrails, equipment, etc.)
In the event of a positive case of a worker, customer or vendor shut down site and wait 24 hours before cleaning and disinfecting of the workplace in accordance with current CDC guidance
Disinfect all fitness equipment or mutually-touched objects (e.g., spin shoes, jump ropes, dumbbells, etc.) immediately after each use. At no point should customers come in contact with objects that others have touched without first being disinfected according to CDC guidance
Recommended Best Practices
Open windows and doors to increase airflow where possible
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Updated MA Safety, Fitness & Health Clubs Part 2 of 3
Lower risk Massachusetts communities have been permitted to move into Step II of Phase III of Governor Baker's reopening plan. The Commonwealth defines "Lower-risk communities" as cities and towns that have not been designated in the “red” category in any of the last three weekly Department of Public Health weekly reports. Click hereto see the list of communities not designated as lower-risk communities.
To assist business owners we will be sharing highlights of the State's Updated Safety Standards and Reopening Guidelines for impacted sectors.
NOTE:COVID-19 is highly transmissible. Individuals should follow these universal precautions regardless of the extent of mitigation needed:
The current state of the COVID-19 pandemic is continually evolving. What is true today may not be tomorrow. At this time, the evidence suggests schools have not played a significant role in COVID-19 transmission and that children, particularly younger children, are less likely than adults to be infected with COVID-19.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
The state of Massachusetts defines Fitness Centers and Health Clubs as any fitness facility that provides access to and/or instruction of personal fitness training, including but not limited to fitness activities such as:
Weight and resistance training
Crosstraining
Yoga
Spin classes
Boot camp training
Indoor and outdoor athletic facilities, such as those for gymnastics, tennis, and swimming (whether a standalone facility or part of a Fitness Center or Health Club) must follow the Youth and Adult Sports guidance and the Pools guidance, available on the EEA Reopening Site.
Hygiene Protocols
Ensure access to handwashing facilities on site, including soap and running water, and allow enough break time for workers to wash hands frequently; alcohol-based hand sanitizers with at least 60% alcohol may be used as an alternative
Distribute hand sanitizer and disposable wipes abundantly throughout the space for workers and customers to disinfect their hands and equipment before and after use
Place disposable wipes next to each piece of large equipment (such as treadmills, bikes, rowing machines) and next to each area containing smaller equipment (such as free weights)
Require trainers to wash hands before and after each training session and sanitize frequently during each session
All equipment must be sanitized between uses. No equipment shall be used by another customer or returned to the storage rack / container without being sanitized
Encourage customers to use one piece of equipment at a time (e.g., limit circuit training or “super sets” with multiple pieces of equipment) in order to facilitate required sanitizing. Facilities must provide sanitization supplies at each piece of equipment in order for customers to clean in between each use
If sanitation (or the monitoring thereof by employees) of any piece of equipment is not possible or practical, this equipment shall be closed off
Encourage customers to use their own personal exercise equipment (such as spin shoes, jump ropes, yoga mats, etc.) when possible. If shared items are used, they must be sanitized in between each use
Post visible signage throughout the site to remind workers and customers of hygiene and safety protocols
Allow water fountains to be used as refill stations only, provided that social distancing can be maintained. Customers and workers should bring their own water bottles or purchase from the business. Customers are not to drink directly from the water fountain
Staffing Operations
Encourage outdoor exercise, classes, sessions, etc. where possible, so long as appropriate physical distancing is maintained at all times and any equipment used is sanitized after each use
Personal trainers should maintain six feet of distance from clients to the extent possible and should minimize any prolonged close contact. Personal trainers must wear face coverings. Any equipment used during the personal training session must be sanitized after each use, or at the end of the session if the client was the only person who used the equipment during the session
Provide training to workers on up-to-date safety information and precautions including hygiene and other measures aimed at reducing disease transmission, including:
Social distancing, hand-washing, proper use of face coverings
Self-screening at home, including temperature and symptom checks
Reinforcing that staff should not come to work if sick
When to seek medical attention if symptoms become severe
Which underlying health conditions may make individuals more susceptible to contracting and suffering from a severe case of the virus
Adjust workplace hours and shifts (working teams with different schedules or staggered arrival / departure) to minimize contact across workers and reduce congestion
Require customers to sign up for classes in advance
Facilities must screen workers at each shift by ensuring the following:
Worker is not experiencing any symptoms such as fever (100.0 and above) or chills, cough, shortness of breath, sore throat, fatigue, headache, muscle/body aches, runny nose/congestion, new loss of taste or smell, or nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
Worker has not had “close contact” with an individual diagnosed with COVID-19. “Close contact” means living in the same household as a person who has tested positive for COVID-19, caring for a person who has tested positive for COVID-19, being within 6 feet of a person who has tested positive for COVID-19 for 15 minutes or more, or coming in direct contact with secretions (e.g., sharing utensils, being coughed on) from a person who has tested positive for COVID-19, while that person was symptomatic
Worker has not been asked to self-isolate or quarantine by their doctor or a local public health official
Workers who fail to meet the above criteria must be sent home
Maintain a log of workers and customers to support potential contact tracing (name, date, time, contact information)
Close or limit waiting areas and, for class-based activities with distinct session times, ask customers to wait outside or in cars until 10 minutes prior to their class
Schedule 30-minute windows between classes to allow for thorough cleaning and appropriate ventilation of the fitness room, and to discourage congestion
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Updated MA Safety, Fitness & Health Clubs Part 1 of 3
Last Monday, October 5, lower risk Massachusetts communities will be permitted to move into Step II of Phase III of Governor Baker's reopening plan.
Lower-risk communities are defined as cities and towns that have not been designated in the “red” category in any of the last three weekly Department of Public Health weekly reports. Click hereto see the list of communities not designated as lower-risk communities.
To assist business owners we will be sharing highlights of the State's Updated Safety Standards and Reopening Guidelines for impacted sectors.
NOTE:COVID-19 is highly transmissible. Individuals should follow these universal precautions regardless of the extent of mitigation needed:
The current state of the COVID-19 pandemic is continually evolving. What is true today may not be tomorrow. At this time, the evidence suggests schools have not played a significant role in COVID-19 transmission and that children, particularly younger children, are less likely than adults to be infected with COVID-19.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
The state of Massachusetts defines Fitness Centers and Health Clubs as any fitness facility that provides access to and/or instruction of personal fitness training, including but not limited to fitness activities such as:
Weight and resistance training
Crosstraining
Yoga
Spin classes
Boot camp training
Indoor and outdoor athletic facilities, such as those for gymnastics, tennis, and swimming (whether a standalone facility or part of a Fitness Center or Health Club) must follow the Youth and Adult Sports guidance and the Pools guidance, available on the EEA Reopening Site.
Social Distancing And Capacity Limits
Require face coverings for all workers and visitors, except where unsafe due to medical condition or disability, or when engaging in strenuous fitness activity in accordance with the rules below
Customers wearing face coverings during fitness activity must maintain physical distancing of at least 6 feet. If customers cannot wear a face covering during strenuous fitness activity, distancing of at least 14 feet must be maintained,
In Phase 3 Step 1, each facility must monitor visitor entries and exits, ensure social distancing, and limit occupancy at all times to:
40% of the facility’s maximum permitted occupancy as documented in its occupancy permit on record with the municipal building department or other municipal record holder
Facilities for which no permitted occupancy limitation is on record may allow 8 persons per 1,000 square feet of accessible indoor or outdoor space
In any case, no enclosed space within the facility shall exceed occupancy of 8 persons per 1,000 square feet
In Phase 3 Step 2, each facility must monitor visitor entries and exits, ensure social distancing, and limit occupancy at all times to:
50% of the facility’s maximum permitted occupancy as documented in its occupancy permit on record with the municipal building department or other municipal record holder
Facilities for which no permitted occupancy limitation is on record may allow up to 10 persons per 1,000 square feet of accessible indoor or outdoor space
In any case, no enclosed space within the facility shall exceed occupancy of 10 persons per 1,000 square feet
All occupancy counts and calculations shall include visitors, staff, and other workers
Arrange all equipment (weights, machines, treadmills, bikes, etc.) so exercise areas are spaced out at least 14 feet apart. If spacing of equipment is not possible, equipment must be blocked off or closed to maintain 14 feet of distancing. Spacing of machines may be adjusted to at least 6 feet apart if barriers are installed
Consider installing plastic barriers between equipment where possible. Barriers must extend high enough to effectively block respiration from someone using the equipment. If barriers are installed, they must be cleaned regularly.
In group fitness classes, 14 feet of physical distancing must be maintained between attendees at all times. If physical barriers are installed to separate group fitness equipment, 6 feet of physical distancing must be maintained
Install visual markers (boundaries, walkways, signage, etc.) to encourage customers to remain at least 6 feet apart while moving throughout the space
Establish directional pathways to manage visitor flow for foot traffic, to minimize contact (e.g., one-way entrance and exit to rooms, oneway pathways). Post clearly visible signage regarding these policies
Stagger lunch and break times for workers, regulate the maximum number of people in one place and ensure at least 6 feet of physical distancing between workers
Close or reconfigure common spaces and high-density areas of facilities where workers are likely to congregate (e.g., break rooms and eating areas) to allow 6 feet of physical distancing
Close or reconfigure other common spaces where customers are likely to congregate or where social distancing is not possible, such as lobbies and waiting areas
Install physical partitions in areas where physical distancing is not possible, such as service counters
Recommended Best Practices
Consider installing plastic barriers between equipment where possible. Barriers must extend high enough to effectively block respiration from someone using the equipment. If barriers are installed, they must be cleaned regularly
Consider establishing “workout zones” to encourage spacing of customers using free weights, dumbbells, etc.
Contactless payment and sign-in methods are encouraged
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Updated MA Safety, Close Contact Personal Services Part 2 of 3
Last Monday, October 5, lower risk Massachusetts communities will be permitted to move into Step II of Phase III of Governor Baker's reopening plan.
Lower-risk communities are defined as cities and towns that have not been designated in the “red” category in any of the last three weekly Department of Public Health weekly reports. Click hereto see the list of communities not designated as lower-risk communities.
To assist business owners we will be sharing highlights of the State's Updated Safety Standards and Reopening Guidelines for impacted sectors.
NOTE:COVID-19 is highly transmissible. Individuals should follow these universal precautions regardless of the extent of mitigation needed:
The current state of the COVID-19 pandemic is continually evolving. What is true today may not be tomorrow. At this time, the evidence suggests schools have not played a significant role in COVID-19 transmission and that children, particularly younger children, are less likely than adults to be infected with COVID-19.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
Close Contact Personal Services - Cleaning And Disinfecting
Establish and maintain cleaning protocols specific to the business
When an active employee is diagnosed with COVID19, cleaning and disinfecting must be performed
Disinfection of all common surfaces must take place at intervals appropriate to said workplace
Clean commonly touched surfaces in restrooms (e.g., toilet seats, doorknobs, stall handles, sinks, paper towel dispensers, soap dispensers) frequently and in accordance with CDC guidelines
Conduct frequent cleaning and disinfection of site (at least daily, and more frequently if feasible)
Keep cleaning logs that include date, time, and scope of cleaning
Conduct frequent disinfecting of heavily transited areas and high-touch surfaces (e.g., doorknobs, handrails, headrests, armrests, etc.)
In the event of a positive case of a worker, patron or vendor shut down site for a deep cleaning and disinfecting of the workplace in accordance with current CDC guidance
Disinfect or replace tools, implements and surfaces between customers (e.g., tables, finger bowls, chairs and headrests, spatulas, clippers, spacers, styling tools)
If tools cannot be disinfected (i.e., porous tools such as nail files, buffers, drill bits, etc.), they must be discarded after use
Disinfect chair, table, and/or workstation between customers or use disposable plastic coverings for each customer, observing contact time on label for disinfectant to work properly
Launder all linens, towel drapes and smocks in hot soapy water and dry completely regularly and between each use
Routine cleaning and disinfection procedures (e.g., using cleaners and water to pre-clean surfaces prior to applying an EPA-registered, hospital-grade disinfectant for appropriate contact times as indicated on the product's label).
If performing emergency dental procedures, follow standard practices for disinfection and sterilization of dental devices contaminated with SARS-CoV-2, as described in the CDC Guideline for Disinfection and Sterilization in Healthcare Facilities, 2008 and Guidelines for Infection Control in Dental Health Care Settings – 2003.
In some emergency procedures appropriate cleaning and disinfecting techniques from bloodborne pathogen practices should be used, including protecting vacuum lines with liquid disinfectant traps and high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters or filters of equivalent or superior efficiency and which are checked routinely and maintained or replaced as necessary.
Note: Workers who perform cleaning and disinfection in healthcare may require PPE and/or other controls to protect them simultaneously from chemical hazards posed by disinfectants and from human blood, body fluids, and other potentially infectious materials to which they have occupational exposure in the healthcare environment. Employers may need to adapt guidance from this Dentistry workers and Employers section, the Environmental Services Workers and Employers section, and the interim guidance for workers and employers of workers at increased risk of occupational exposure, in order to fully protect workers performing cleaning and disinfection activities in healthcare workplaces.
Recommended Best Practices
Open windows and doors to increase airflow where possible
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Updated MA Safety, Close Contact Personal Services Part 2 of 3
Last Monday, October 5, lower risk Massachusetts communities will be permitted to move into Step II of Phase III of Governor Baker's reopening plan.
Lower-risk communities are defined as cities and towns that have not been designated in the “red” category in any of the last three weekly Department of Public Health weekly reports. Click hereto see the list of communities not designated as lower-risk communities.
To assist business owners we will be sharing highlights of the State's Updated Safety Standards and Reopening Guidelines for impacted sectors.
NOTE:COVID-19 is highly transmissible. Individuals should follow these universal precautions regardless of the extent of mitigation needed:
The current state of the COVID-19 pandemic is continually evolving. What is true today may not be tomorrow. At this time, the evidence suggests schools have not played a significant role in COVID-19 transmission and that children, particularly younger children, are less likely than adults to be infected with COVID-19.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
Close Contact Personal Services - Hygiene Protocols
Ensure access to handwashing facilities on site, including soap and running water, and allow enough break time for workers to wash hands frequently; alcohol-based hand sanitizers with at least 60% alcohol may be used as an alternative
Supply workers at workplace location with adequate cleaning products (e.g., sanitizer, disinfecting wipes, disinfectant)
Alcohol-based hand sanitizers with at least 60% alcohol shall be made available at entrances and throughout floor areas for both workers and customers
Require glove changes and handwashing before and after each customer
Do not permit sharing of tools and supplies between workers (e.g., clippers, spacers, brushes, needles, etc.). All tools must be cleaned between each customer
Workers should change into a clean smock or gown between each customer. Consider using disposable capes and smocks. Reusable capes, towels, gowns should be laundered between each use
Post visible signage throughout the site to remind workers and customers of hygiene and safety protocols
Staffing & Operations
Provide training to workers on up-to-date safety information and precautions including hygiene and other measures aimed at reducing disease transmission, including:
Social distancing, hand-washing, proper use of face coverings
Self-screening at home, including temperature and symptom checks
Reinforcing that staff shall not come to work if sick
When to seek medical attention if symptoms become severe
Which underlying health conditions may make individuals more susceptible to contracting and suffering from a severe case of the virus
Facilities must screen workers at each shift by ensuring the following:
Worker is not experiencing any symptoms such as fever (100.0 and above) or chills, cough, shortness of breath, sore throat, fatigue, headache, muscle/body aches, runny nose/congestion, new loss of taste or smell, or nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
Worker has not had “close contact” with an individual diagnosed with COVID-19. “Close contact” means living in the same household as a person who has tested positive for COVID-19, caring for a person who has tested positive for COVID-19, being within 6 feet of a person who has tested positive for COVID-19 for 15 minutes or more, or coming in direct contact with secretions (e.g., sharing utensils, being coughed on) from a person who has tested positive for COVID-19
Worker has not been asked to self-isolate or quarantine by their doctor or a local public health official
Workers who fail to meet the above criteria must be sent home
Adjust workplace hours and shifts (working teams with different schedules or staggered arrival / departure) to minimize contact across workers and reduce congestion
Require customers to make an appointment in advance to receive service
Close waiting areas and ask customers to wait outside or in cars until it is time for their appointment
Maintain a log of workers and customers to support potential contact tracing (name, date, time, contact information)
Remove non-essential amenities (e.g., magazines, customer-facing water or coffee, coat rooms, etc.)
Workers shall not appear for work or complete a shift if feeling ill
Encourage workers who test positive for COVID-19 to disclose to the workplace employer for purposes of cleaning / disinfecting and contact tracing. If the employer is notified of any positive case at the workplace, the employer must immediately notify the local Board of Health (LBOH) in the city or town where the workplace is located. Employers must assist the LBOH with contact tracing efforts, including advising likely contacts to isolate and self-quarantine. Testing of other workers may be recommended consistent with guidance and / or at the request of the LBOH
Businesses should maintain operating hours that allow for on-going off-hour sanitation and cleaning
Limit visitors and service providers on site; shipping and deliveries should be completed in designated areas
Recommended Best Practices
Workers who are who are at high risk from COVID-19 according to the Centers for Disease Control should be encouraged to stay home or should have work assignments shifted to reduce contact with customers and co-workers
Workers are strongly encouraged to self-identify symptoms or any close contact to a known or suspected COVID-19 case to the employer
Encourage workers who test positive for COVID-19 to disclose to the workplace employer for purposes of cleaning / disinfecting and contact tracing
Limit employee movement to discrete work zones to minimize overlap where possible
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Updated MA Safety, Close Contact Personal Services Part 1 of 3
Last Monday, October 5, lower risk Massachusetts communities will be permitted to move into Step II of Phase III of Governor Baker's reopening plan.
Lower-risk communities are defined as cities and towns that have not been designated in the “red” category in any of the last three weekly Department of Public Health weekly reports. Click hereto see the list of communities not designated as lower-risk communities.
To assist business owners we will be sharing highlights of the State's Updated Safety Standards and Reopening Guidelines for impacted sectors.
NOTE:COVID-19 is highly transmissible. Individuals should follow these universal precautions regardless of the extent of mitigation needed:
The current state of the COVID-19 pandemic is continually evolving. What is true today may not be tomorrow. At this time, the evidence suggests schools have not played a significant role in COVID-19 transmission and that children, particularly younger children, are less likely than adults to be infected with COVID-19.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
This is a reminder that Barber Shops and Hair Salons, originally authorized to open in Phase 1 of the Re-Opening Plan, are subject to these workplace safety standards.
Close Contact Personal Service are defined as any personal service typically delivered through close physical contact with the customer, including but not limited to:
hair salons and barber shops; as permitted to open in Phase 1 of the Re-Opening Plan
hair removal services; including laser services, depilatory salons, waxing services, threading, and electrolysis services
massage, body treatments, eastern treatment, energy therapies and other body work therapies
skin care services; including peels, facials, serums, Botox and filler
nail care services; including nail salons
other hair services; including hair replacement services, scalp treating services
makeup salons
makeup application services;
tanning salons; including other businesses that provide spray tanning and tanning beds; and
tattoo, piercing, and body art services
Note: personal trainers should follow fitness center and health club guidance for Phase 3, available on the Massachusetts Reopening Site Saunas, hot tubs, and sensory float tanks must remain closed
MANDATORY SAFETY STANDARDS SOCIAL DISTANCING & CAPACITY LIMIT
Face coverings are required for all customers and workers, except where an individual is unable to wear a face covering due to a medical condition or disability
For skin or beard care that occurs on the face, the customer may temporarily remove the face covering but must immediately put the face covering back on for the remainder of the visit. Require workers to wear gloves, gowns or smocks, and prescription glasses, safety glasses or goggles Ensure separation of 6 feet or more between individuals where possible:
Close or reconfigure common spaces and high density areas where workers and patrons are likely to congregate (e.g., break rooms and eating areas for workers; lobbies and workstations for customers) to allow social distancing
Arrange workstations so work areas are spaced out at least 6 feet apart
Physical partitions must separate workstations that cannot be spaced out (partitions must be at least 6 feet in height)
Install physical barriers for checkout stations where possible, otherwise maintain 6 feet distance where not possible
Install visual social distancing markers to encourage customers to remain 6 feet apart (e.g., checkout lines, lines to use the restroom)
Mark rooms and hallways to indicate 6 feet separation Stagger lunch and break times for workers, regulate the maximum number of people in one place, and ensure at least 6 feet of physical distancing Establish directional pathways to manage visitor flow for foot traffic, to minimize contact (e.g., one-way entrance and exit to rooms, one-way pathways). Post clearly visible signage regarding these policies No guests should accompany the customer during the personal service except for persons serving as caretakers or guardians. Guests must observe all other requirements of customers, including wearing a face covering and maintaining 6 feet of separation from other persons present
Recommended Best Practices
Contactless payment methods are encouraged Encourage curbside pickup or delivery of any retail items purchased by customers not already on the premises for a service appointment, and follow the Retail Business guidance for customers seeking retail purchases instead of or in addition to personal services
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Updated MA Safety, Restaurants Part 3 of 3
As of this past Monday, October 5, lower risk Massachusetts communities will be permitted to move into Step II of Phase III of Governor Baker's reopening plan.
Lower-risk communities are defined as cities and towns that have not been designated in the “red” category in any of the last three weekly Department of Public Health weekly reports. Click hereto see the list of communities not designated as lower-risk communities.
To assist business owners we will be sharing highlights of the State's Updated Safety Standards and Reopening Guidelines for impacted sectors.
NOTE:COVID-19 is highly transmissible. Individuals should follow these universal precautions regardless of the extent of mitigation needed:
The current state of the COVID-19 pandemic is continually evolving. What is true today may not be tomorrow. At this time, the evidence suggests schools have not played a significant role in COVID-19 transmission and that children, particularly younger children, are less likely than adults to be infected with COVID-19.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
Anyone showing signs of illness may be denied entry
Workers must stay home if feeling ill
Encourage workers who test positive for COVID-19 to disclose to the employer for purposes of cleaning / disinfecting and contact tracing. If the employer is notified of any positive case at the workplace, the employer must immediately notify the local Board of Health (LBOH) in the city or town where the workplace is located. Employers must assist the LBOH with contact tracing efforts, including advising likely contacts to isolate and self-quarantine. Testing of other workers may be recommended consistent with guidance and / or at the request of the LBOH
Notify workers that they may not work if they test positive for COVID-19 (they should be isolated at home) or are found to be a close contact of someone with COVID-19 (they should be quarantined at home)
Post notice to workers and customers of important health information and relevant safety measures as outlined in the Commonwealth’s Mandatory Safety Standards for Workplace
Designate the Person in Charge (105 CMR 590) for each shift to oversee implementation of the guidelines in this document
Restaurants will be allowed to maximize outdoor dining space, including patios and parking lots where available, where municipal approval is obtained
Additional on-site amenities and services shall only open and operate when those amenities or services would otherwise be authorized to operate under the Commonwealth’s Phased Reopening Plan and then must adhere to all sector-specific safety protocols, available on the Reopening Plan website, applicable to the amenity or service. Examples include:
Darts, arcade games, and other indoor games: Must follow the Arcades & Other Indoor & Outdoor Game & Recreation Businesses guidance, including the requirement that active use of pool tables and other games involving patrons not seated at tables is not permitted in areas where food service is provided.
Musical and other performances: Must follow the latest Theater and Performance Venue guidance, including distance between performers and between performers and attendees. Any performers arriving from other states must follow the Commonwealth’s current out-of-state travel order. Performances at indoor venues in Step 1 communities may not include singing or the playing of wind or brass instruments. Performances at indoor venues in step 2 communities may not include singing, but may include the playing of wind or brass instruments in accordance with the performance venue guidance
Dance floors: Must remain closed until Phase 4
Gift shops: Must follow the latest retail guidance
Events hosted at restaurants must follow the Indoor and Outdoor Events guidance, including the capacity limitations in that guidance.
Recommended Best Practices - Staffing & Operations
Encourage use of technological solutions where possible to reduce person-to-person interaction (e.g., contactless payment, mobile ordering, text on arrival for seating)
Workers who are particularly high risk to COVID-19 according to the Centers for Disease Control (e.g., due to age or underlying conditions) are encouraged to stay home or arrange an alternate work assignment
Workers are strongly encouraged to self-identify symptoms or any close contact to a known or suspected COVID-19 case to the employer
Encourage workers who test positive for COVID-19 to disclose to the employer for purposes of cleaning / disinfecting and contact tracing
Cleaning & Disinfecting
Clean commonly touched surfaces in restrooms (e.g., toilet seats, doorknobs, stall handles, sinks, paper towel dispensers, soap dispensers) frequently and in accordance with CDC guidelines
Keep cleaning logs that include date, time, and scope of cleaning
Conduct frequent disinfecting of heavy transit areas and high-touch surfaces (e.g., doorknobs, elevator buttons, staircases)
Implement procedures to increase cleaning / disinfecting in the back-of-house. Avoid all food contact surfaces when using disinfectants. Food contact surfaces must be cleaned and sanitized before use with a sanitizer approved for food contact surfaces. Non-food contact surfaces must be frequently cleaned
In the event of a presumptive or actual positive COVID-19 case of a worker, patron, or vendor, the restaurant must shut down site for a deep cleaning and disinfecting of the workplace in accordance with current CDC guidance
Recommended Best Practices - Cleaning & Disinfecting
Open windows and doors to increase airflow where possible
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Updated MA Safety, Restaurants Part 2 of 3
As of this past Monday, October 5, lower risk Massachusetts communities will be permitted to move into Step II of Phase III of Governor Baker's reopening plan.
Lower-risk communities are defined as cities and towns that have not been designated in the “red” category in any of the last three weekly Department of Public Health weekly reports. Click hereto see the list of communities not designated as lower-risk communities.
To assist business owners we will be sharing highlights of the State's Updated Safety Standards and Reopening Guidelines for impacted sectors.
NOTE:COVID-19 is highly transmissible. Individuals should follow these universal precautions regardless of the extent of mitigation needed:
The current state of the COVID-19 pandemic is continually evolving. What is true today may not be tomorrow. At this time, the evidence suggests schools have not played a significant role in COVID-19 transmission and that children, particularly younger children, are less likely than adults to be infected with COVID-19.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
All workers must wash their hands frequently, and table servers must wash their hands or apply hand sanitizer between each table interaction
Restaurants must ensure access to handwashing facilities on site, including soap and running water, and allow sufficient break time for workers to wash hands frequently; alcohol-based hand sanitizers with at least 60% alcohol may be used as an alternative
Alcohol-based hand sanitizers with at least 60% alcohol shall be made available at entrances, exits, and in the dining area
Restaurants must supply workers at workplace location with adequate cleaning products (e.g., sanitizer, disinfecting wipes) Post visible signage throughout the site to remind workers and customers of hygiene and safety protocols
Self-serve, unattended buffets, topping bars, drink stations, and other communal serving areas must remain closed
Condiments and similar products (e.g., salt, pepper, and salad dressing) should not be pre-set on tables and should instead only be provided upon request either in single-serving portions (e.g., individual packages or cups) or in serving containers that are sanitized between each use
Menus must be one of the following:
paper, single-use menus disposed after each use
displayed menu (e.g., digital, whiteboard, chalkboard)
electronic menus viewed on customers’ phones / mobile devices,
laminated reusable menus sanitized between each use
Utensils and place settings must be either single-use or sanitized after each use; utensils should be rolled or packaged
Tables should not be pre-set to reduce opportunity for exposure
Tables and chairs must be cleaned and sanitized thoroughly between each seating
Staffing & Operations
When possible, reservations or call ahead seating should be encouraged; managers must ensure that diners waiting for tables do not congregate in common areas or form lines
When taking reservations and when seating walk-in customers, restaurants should retain a phone number of someone in the party for possible contact tracing
Restaurants may not provide customers with buzzers or other devices to provide alerts that seating is available or orders are ready; restaurants should instead use no-touch methods such as audio announcements, text messaging, and notices on fixed video screens or blackboards
Alcoholic beverages may only be served for on-site consumption if accompanied by food prepared on-site. Potato chips, pretzels, and other pre-packaged, shelf stable foods, or other food prepared off-site, do not constitute food “prepared onsite.”
For each customer, an item of prepared food must be ordered at the same time as an initial alcoholic beverage(s) order. One or more shareable food item(s) may be ordered, as long as it/they would sufficiently serve the number of people at the table.
Provide training to workers on up-to-date safety information and precautions including hygiene and other measures aimed at reducing disease transmission, including:
Social distancing, hand-washing, and requirement and proper use of face coverings
Modifying practices for serving in order to minimize time spent within 6 feet of customers
Self-screening at home, including temperature or symptom checks
Reinforcing that staff shall not come to work if sick
When to seek medical attention if symptoms become severe
Which underlying health conditions may make individuals more susceptible to contracting and suffering from a severe case of the virus
Restaurant operators should establish adjusted workplace hours and shifts for workers to minimize contact across workers and reduce congestion at entry points
Limit visitors and vendors on site; shipping and deliveries should be completed in designated areas
Workers shall not appear for work or complete a shift if feeling ill
Restaurants must screen workers at each shift by ensuring the following:
Worker is not experiencing any symptoms such as fever (100.0 and above) or chills, cough, shortness of breath, sore throat, fatigue, headache, muscle/body aches, runny nose/congestion, new loss of taste or smell, or nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
Worker has not had “close contact” with an individual diagnosed with COVID-19. “Close contact” means living in the same household as a person who has tested positive for COVID-19, caring for a person who has tested positive for COVID-19, being within 6 feet of a person who has tested positive for COVID-19 for 15 minutes or more, or coming in direct contact with secretions (e.g., sharing utensils, being coughed on) from a person who has tested positive for COVID-19
Worker has not been asked to self-isolate or quarantine by their doctor or a local public health official
Workers who fail to meet the above criteria must be sent home
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Updated MA Safety, Restaurants Part 1 of 3
As of this past Monday, October 5, lower risk Massachusetts communities will be permitted to move into Step II of Phase III of Governor Baker's reopening plan.
Lower-risk communities are defined as cities and towns that have not been designated in the “red” category in any of the last three weekly Department of Public Health weekly reports. Click hereto see the list of communities not designated as lower-risk communities.
To assist business owners we will be sharing highlights of the State's Updated Safety Standards and Reopening Guidelines for impacted sectors.
NOTE:COVID-19 is highly transmissible. Individuals should follow these universal precautions regardless of the extent of mitigation needed:
The current state of the COVID-19 pandemic is continually evolving. What is true today may not be tomorrow. At this time, the evidence suggests schools have not played a significant role in COVID-19 transmission and that children, particularly younger children, are less likely than adults to be infected with COVID-19.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
The state of Massachusetts defines “Restaurant” as an establishment that provides seated food service that is prepared on-site and under a Food Service Establishment , for food service establishments that cook, prepare and serve food, intended for immediate consumption, as permitted and issued by a municipal authority pursuant to 105 CMR 590.000. Potato chips, pretzels, and other similar pre-packaged, shelf stable foods, or other food prepared off-site, do not constitute food “prepared on-site.”Restaurants must comply with the following sector specific social distancing rules for providing dining services in all customer seating areas:
Require face coverings for all customers and workers at all times, except where an individual is unable to wear a face covering due to medical condition or disability
Customers must wear face coverings unless seated at tables
While indoor table service is permitted, restaurants are encouraged to structure operations to operate as much as possible through outdoor table service and to strictly limit indoor table service in order to assure effective compliance with social distancing requirements and to limit activities within confined spaces
Restaurants must comply with the following sector specific social distancing rules for providing dining services in all customer seating areas:
Tables must be positioned so to maintain at least a 6 foot distance from all other tables and any high foot traffic areas (e.g., routes to bathrooms, entrances, exits); tables may be positioned closer if separated by protective / non-porous barriers (e.g., structural walls or plexi-glass dividers) not less than 6 feet high installed between tables and high foot traffic areas
The size of a party seated at a table cannot exceed 10 people
Bar seating is permitted provided that either:
There are no active work areas or working staff behind the bar at least 6 ft away; or
There is a physical barrier (e.g. Plexiglas) separating customers from the bar space that is at least 30 inches high and a gap/opening at the bottom of the barrier is allowed for food and drink service as long as the gap/opening is no more than 8 inches high
In addition, parties must be seated at bars (no standing customer service) and parties must be spaced at least 6 feet from other parties
Subject to any applicable building and fire code requirements, bar areas may be re-configured to accommodate table seating that complies with all spacing and other requirements in these COVID-19 safety standards. Tables must not be placed within 6 feet of the staffed bartending area.
All customers must be seated; eat-in service to standing customers (e.g., around bar areas) is prohibited
Restaurants may provide carry-out or delivery service, but all safety standards for table separation, size of party, and hygiene must be maintained for any indoor or outdoor table seating that is available to carry-out patrons
All other amenities and areas not employed for food and beverage service (e.g., dance floors, pool tables, playgrounds, etc.) must be closed or removed to prevent gathering of customers.
Recreation amenities which are allowed to open in Step 1 of Phase III (such as arcade games) may be open if adhering to all safety protocols in the Arcades & Other Indoor & Outdoor Game & Recreation Businesses including the requirement that active use of pool tables and other games involving patrons not seated at tables is not permitted in areas where food service is provided.
Ensure separation of 6 feet or more between all individuals (workers, vendors, and customers) unless this creates a safety hazard due to the nature of the work or the configuration of the workspace
Close or reconfigure worker common spaces and high density areas where workers are likely to congregate (e.g., break rooms, eating areas) to allow 6 feet of physical distancing; redesign work stations to ensure physical distancing (e.g., separate tables, stagger workstations on either side of processing lines so workers are not face-to-face, use distance markers to assure spacing including in the kitchen area)
Establish directional hallways and passageways for foot traffic if possible, to minimize contact (e.g., one-way entrance and exit to the restaurant). Post clearly visible signage regarding these policies
Prohibit lingering in common areas (e.g., waiting areas, bathrooms) and ensure social distancing in common areas by marking 6 feet spacing with tape or paint on the floor and signage
All customer-facing workers (e.g., servers, bus staff) must minimize time spent within 6 feet of customers
Recommended Best Practices
Designate assigned working areas to workers where possible to limit movement throughout the restaurant and limit contact between workers (e.g., assigning zones to servers)
Stagger work schedules and staff meal and break times, regulating maximum number of people in one place and ensuring at least 6 feet of physical distancing
Minimize the use of confined spaces (e.g., elevators, vehicles) by more than one individual at a time
Valet parking operations should be avoided unless necessary due to physical or geographic constraints or in order to accommodate individual guests with disabling conditions
Valets must be provided with hand sanitizer and should use sanitizer before and after parking vehicles
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - DESE Vocational Education Guidance, Part 3
By now the vast majority of school districts have begun the 20-21 academic year and every reasonable precaution has been taken to ensure the safest possible environment for our students. Much of the discussion has focused on the traditional classroom setting, but how has the current COVID-19 pandemic affected Vocational schools were learning requires hands-on, in-person, group learning? The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) has offered guidance for vocational technical schools and comprehensive schools offering vocational technical programs. The guidance includes appropriate safety measures to promote the safety of students, teachers, and staff. This guidance may also be used as a reference for other related programs, such as Innovation Pathways and Connecting Activities. The following highlights DESE guidance. For complete details click here.
NOTE:COVID-19 is highly transmissible. Individuals should follow these universal precautions regardless of the extent of mitigation needed:
The current state of the COVID-19 pandemic is continually evolving. What is true today may not be tomorrow. At this time, the evidence suggests schools have not played a significant role in COVID-19 transmission and that children, particularly younger children, are less likely than adults to be infected with COVID-19.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
Culinary arts programs should follow both the DESE reopening guidance and the Massachusetts Safety Standards and Checklist for Restaurants. In implementing these guidelines, culinary arts programs should:
Limit customers. Culinary sites should only serve internal guests (e.g., staff and students) within a dine-in restaurant setting for the first two months.
Setup online ordering for curbside pick-up for external customers. This will enable a broader customer base to buy food at the restaurant while limiting the number of external customers entering the building.
Designate meal pick-up sites. In order to further limit interaction with customers, sites should identify a single area where meals will be picked up.
Setup disinfecting stations. These should be available at the front and back of the house for students and staff.
Early Education And Care
Early education and care programs should follow both the DESE reopening guidance and the Massachusetts Child and Youth Serving Programs Reopen Approach. High school students in early childhood education and care programs may participate in practicums and cooperative education placements with the following safeguards:
Sites follow guidelines issued by the Department of Early Education and Care,
The high school student’s school district must be in the designated green/unshaded zone
The childcare placement must be in the designated green/unshaded zone.
Cosmetology
Cosmetology programs must abide by both the DESE reopening guidance and the Massachusetts Safety Standards and Checklist for Close Contact Personal Services. In implementing these guidelines, cosmetology programs should:
Limit customers. Cosmetology sites should only serve classmates and staff for the first two months of operations and not permit external customers. Use of mannequins should be prioritized as feasible.
Limit services.Haircuts and other services are permitted if the individuals are not face-to-face for extended periods of time, so long as DESE and industry safety standards are followed. These standards include wearing masks, gloves, gowns or smocks, and prescription glasses, safety glasses, or goggles.
Automotive Technology And Automotive Collision
Automotive technology and automotive collision programs must abide by both the DESE reopening guidance and the Massachusetts Reopening Mandatory Safety Standards for Workplaces. In implementing these guidelines, automotive technology and automotive collision programs should:
Provide appointment-based services only. For services provided to external customers (i.e., the public), service should be by appointment only to limit interaction.
Minimize public entry to the building. Create drop-off and pick-up procedures that do not require personal interaction, such as key drop-boxes. If customer interactions are needed, they must occur outside of the building.
Consider online payment systems. If feasible and to limit interaction with customers, consider using or creating online booking systems with automotive service signature and credit card payment options.
Graphic Communications And Marketing
Graphic communications and marketing programs must abide by boththe DESE reopening guidance and the Massachusetts Reopening Mandatory Safety Standards for Workplaces.In implementing these guidelines, graphic communications and marketing programs should:
Limit external customers. For external customers, graphic communications and marketing programs should utilize virtual operations.
Provide appointment-based services only. For services provided to external customers, service should be by appointment only to limit interaction.
Minimize public entry to the building. Create pick-up procedures for graphic communications and marketing products that do not require personal interaction.
It is important to note that CVTE specific guidance from the Massachusetts DESE is intended to be in place ONLY for thefirst two months of the school year. This is consistent with the way many CVTE programs already operate, in which the initial months of the school year are dedicated to training and preparing students for work in program settings. The Department will provide additional guidance in the coming months based on updated state guidance and COVID-19 trends.
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - DESE Vocational Education Guidance, Part 2
By now the vast majority of school districts have begun the 20-21 academic year and every reasonable precaution has been taken to ensure the safest possible environment for our students. Much of the discussion has focused on the traditional classroom setting, but how has the current COVID-19 pandemic affected Vocational schools were learning requires hands-on, in-person, group learning? The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) has offered guidance for vocational technical schools and comprehensive schools offering vocational technical programs. The guidance includes appropriate safety measures to promote the safety of students, teachers, and staff. This guidance may also be used as a reference for other related programs, such as Innovation Pathways and Connecting Activities. The following highlights DESE guidance. For complete details click here.
NOTE:COVID-19 is highly transmissible. Individuals should follow these universal precautions regardless of the extent of mitigation needed:
The current state of the COVID-19 pandemic is continually evolving. What is true today may not be tomorrow. At this time, the evidence suggests schools have not played a significant role in COVID-19 transmission and that children, particularly younger children, are less likely than adults to be infected with COVID-19.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education has compiled program specific guidance for CVTE schools. This guidance provides additional considerations on how to effectively apply the guidance above to CVTE programs, including exploratory programs, cooperative education (co-ops), clinical placements, and internships.
Health And Safety Practices
In DESE’s initial fall school reopening guidance, the goal was to identify the safe return of as many students as possible to in-person school. This required the establishment of new health and safety recommendations to be followed in our schools this fall. DESE medical advisors have indicated that it is not one mitigation strategy, but a combination of several strategies that will substantially reduce the risk of transmission of COVID-19 in school settings. These measures include staying home when sick, symptom screening, physical distancing, use of masks, frequent hand hygiene, creating student cohorts as feasible, and improving ventilation as feasible.
Career/vocational technical education programs must adhere to DESE's and other agencies’ COVID-19 health and safety guidelines, BUT ALSO, adhere to the federal and state guidelines for safe workplaces, and industry-specific protocols when and where ever applicable.
Additionally, CVTE programs should follow the below guidance.
Maintain safe student collaboration. Student collaboration, such as group projects, is a core part of vocational technical education. Student collaboration is permitted if modified to accommodate all applicable health and safety guidelines. Programs will need to modify projects so that students can work collaboratively while still wearing masks and maintaining 6 feet of distance when feasible; 3 feet being the minimum distance allowed.
Use proper eye protection. When used, face shields do not replace eye protection. Industry-standard eye protection must still be used when required.
Use proper hand coverings. Technical programs must follow industry guidelines on the use of protective hand coverings (gloves).
Focus on safety training. Consider designating “Safety September” to focus on safety training, including establishing new protocols necessary to mitigate COVID-19 for each CVTE program, with regular updates.
Prepare outdoor workspaces. When possible, it is preferable for students to work outdoors. Make sure any outdoor work sites are outfitted with the required safety equipment. For instance, a work site may require fire extinguishers, Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) protected outlets, and first aid kits, among other items.
Provide safe transportation. Student transportation (by van, bus, or other approved vehicle) should follow the same capacity guidelines, health and safety guidelines, and cleaning and disinfecting guidelines outlined in DESE’s Fall Reopening Transportation Guidance.
Minimize personal belongings onsite. Students should come to their class/program/technical area prepared and in uniform each day. Programs should follow the locker guidance in the Fall Reopening Facilities and Operations Guidance.
All customers or visitors must comply with DESE and industry health and safety standards, including wearing masks at all times.
It is important to note that CVTE specific guidance from the Massachusetts DESE is intended to be in place ONLY for thefirst two months of the school year. This is consistent with the way many CVTE programs already operate, in which the initial months of the school year are dedicated to training and preparing students for work in program settings. The Department will provide additional guidance in the coming months based on updated state guidance and COVID-19 trends.
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - DESE Vocational Education Guidance
By now the vast majority of school districts have begun the 20-21 academic year and every reasonable precaution has been taken to ensure the safest possible environment for our students. Much of the discussion has focused on the traditional classroom setting, but how has the current COVID-19 pandemic affected Vocational schools were learning requires hands-on, in-person, group learning? The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) has offered guidance for vocational technical schools and comprehensive schools offering vocational technical programs. The guidance includes appropriate safety measures to promote the safety of students, teachers, and staff. This guidance may also be used as a reference for other related programs, such as Innovation Pathways and Connecting Activities. The following highlights DESE guidance. For complete details click here.
NOTE:COVID-19 is highly transmissible. Individuals should follow these universal precautions regardless of the extent of mitigation needed:
The current state of the COVID-19 pandemic is continually evolving. What is true today may not be tomorrow. At this time, the evidence suggests schools have not played a significant role in COVID-19 transmission and that children, particularly younger children, are less likely than adults to be infected with COVID-19.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
Career/Vocational Technical Education (CVTE) Programs Health And Safety Requirements – ZERO Tolerance
For administrators, educators, staff and students there is a ZERO tolerance policy for entering school property if you are sick.
Administrators, educators, and staff exhibiting any of the symptoms below once at school are required to report this to their supervisor and COVID-19 POC (via phone, text or email) right away, head home and follow the established protocols. Students exhibiting any of the symptoms below once at school are required to report this to their instructor and follow established protocols.
Anyone showing signs or complaining about such symptoms, should be directed to the school Nurse.
COVID-19 Typical Symptoms:
Fever
Cough
Shortness of Breath
Sore Throat
Self-certify Prior To Arriving On School Property
For administrators, educators, staff and students will self-certify that they:
Have no signs of a fever or a measured temperature above 100.3 degrees or greater, a cough or trouble breathing within the past 24 hours.
Have not had "close contact" with an individual diagnosed with COVID-19. “Close contact” means living in the same household as a person who has tested positive for COVID-19, caring for a person who has tested positive for COVID-19, being within 6 feet of a person who has tested positive for COVID-19 for about 15 minutes, or coming in direct contact with secretions (e.g., sharing utensils, being coughed on) from a person who has tested positive for COVID-19, while that person was symptomatic.
Have not been asked to self-isolate or quarantine by their doctor or a local public health official.
Guidance To Prevent Exposure & Limit Transmission
No handshaking
Wash hands often with soap for at least 20 seconds or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% ethanol or 70% isopropanol
School Districts should develop cleaning and decontamination procedures that are posted and shared. These Procedures must cover all areas including tools, gates, equipment, vehicles, etc. and shall be visibly posted.
Instructors and students must implement social distancing by maintaining a minimum distance of 6-feet f
Avoid face to face meetings whenever possible
All groups must be kept a minimum of 6’ apart at all times to eliminate the potential of cross contamination
Each shop should have laminated COVID-19 safety guidelines and hand washing instructions
All restroom facilities should be cleaned and handwashing stations must be provided with soap, hand sanitizer and paper towels
All surfaces should be regularly cleaned, including surfaces, door handles, tools, equipment, etc.
All common areas are to be regularly cleaned and disinfected at least once a day but preferably twice a day
Faculty and students must use their own water bottle, No Sharing
Please maintain Social Distancing separation during breaks and lunch
Avoid touching eyes, nose, and mouth with your hands
To avoid sharing germs, faculty and students are required to clean up after themselves. DO NOT make others responsible for moving, unpacking and packing up your personal belongings
If you or a family member is feeling ill, stay home!
Wash Stations
All shop areas without ready access to an indoor bathroom MUST install Wash Stations.
Install hand wash stations with hot water, if possible, and soap at fire hydrants or other water sources to be used for frequent handwashing for all faculty and students
All faculty and students must help to maintain and keep stations clean
Garbage barrels will be placed next to the hand wash station for disposal of tissues/towels
Where these guidance does not meet or exceed the standards put forth by local municipalities everyone shall abide by the most stringent procedure available.
All infractions must be reported to the appointed COVID-19 Officer to ensure appropriate protocols are followed.
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Governor Charlie Baker has announced that effective Monday, October 5th, lower risk communities will be permitted to move into Step 2 of Phase 3 of the Commonwealth’s reopening plan. All other communities will remain in Phase 3, Step 1. Additionally, he issued a revised gatherings order.
NOTE:COVID-19 is highly transmissible. Individuals should follow these universal precautions regardless of the extent of mitigation needed:
The current state of the COVID-19 pandemic is continually evolving. What is true today may not be tomorrow. At this time, the evidence suggests schools have not played a significant role in COVID-19 transmission and that children, particularly younger children, are less likely than adults to be infected with COVID-19.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
The Baker administration defines lower risk communities as cities and towns that have not been a “red” community in any of the last three weekly Department of Public Health (DPH) weekly reports.
According to the most recent report there were 17 new coronavirus-related deaths reported, bringing the state’s death toll to 9,135 with 126,408 confirmed cases.
Based on the average daily cases per 100,000 residents, each city or town has been designated as a higher risk (red), moderate risk (yellow), or lower risk (green) community. Communities with fewer than five cases are not given a designation.
Fifteen cities and towns now fall in the Department of Public Health’s highest-risk category for COVID-19 transmission;
Chelsea
Everett
Framingham
Holliston
Lawrence
Lynn
Marlborough
Nantucket
New Bedford
Revere
Saugus
Tyngsborough
Winthrop
Worcester
Wrentham are
All considered to be in the red category. Dedham, Lynnfield, Monson, and Plainville were all in the red last week but have since been moved down to moderate risk.
Effective October 5, a limited number of sectors will be eligible to reopen, with restrictions, in Step II of Phase III for lower risk communities only:
Indoor performance venues will be permitted to open with 50% capacity with a maximum of 250 people.
Outdoor performance venue capacity will increase to 50% with a max of 250 people.
For arcades and indoor and outdoor recreation businesses, additional Step II activities like trampolines, obstacle courses, roller rinks and laser tag will also be permitted to open and capacity will increase to 50%.
Fitting rooms will be permitted to open in all types of retail stores.
Gyms, museums, libraries and driving and flight schools will also be permitted to increase their capacity to 50%.
Revised Gatherings Order
The limit for indoor gatherings remains at a maximum of 25 people for all communities.
Outdoor gatherings at private residences and in private backyards will remain at a maximum of 50 people for all communities.
Outdoor gatherings at event venues and in public settings will have a limit of 50 people in Step I communities, and a limit of 100 people in lower risk, Step II communities.
We will be sharing the updates to the industry specific guidance and protocols for a range of Phase 1, 2, and 3 businesses as the administration issues them.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Our Schools, DESE Family Fact Sheet, Part 3 of 3
The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) continues to publish guidance for schools and districts. The following highlights the guidance for schools administrators and districts to use as they work with families to help students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) recover as much as possible from the school disruptions that occurred because of COVID-19. To view the documentation in full You can find the guidance here: Mass DESE COVID-19 Resources.
This Fact Sheet summarizes the main points in DESE’s guidance for families. DESE encourages families to keep in touch with your child’s educators and administrators, and to talk about what the new guidance means for you and your child. If you belong to your local Special Education Parent Advisory Council (SEPAC), you can also collaborate with your school and district to plan and put in place policies and practices that will help all students with IEPs, in addition to your own child.
The current state of the COVID-19 pandemic is continually evolving. What is true today may not be tomorrow. At this time, the evidence suggests schools have not played a significant role in COVID-19 transmission and that children, particularly younger children, are less likely than adults to be infected with COVID-19.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
Your Child’s Right To Implementation Of Their IEP And A Free And Appropriate Public Education (FAPE)
It is important for you to know that special education laws provide that every student with an IEP must have a Free and Appropriate Public Education (FAPE). The U.S. Department of Education has made clear that students with IEPs must receive FAPE even during the pandemic. However, FAPE may look different because of COVID-19. For example, to protect the health and safety of students and their educators, when schools were closed in the spring your child probably received special education instruction and services by using a computer or phone, instead of being in a classroom.
You Wanted Your School To Conduct Special Needs Testing, But The Process Was Impacted By COVID-19
When school buildings unexpectedly closed because of the pandemic, schools were unable to assess students in person. This was true for students of any age, whether in pre-school or older. Going forward, districts must complete evaluations to determine the need for special education services as soon as possible, and talk with you about how best to meet the timelines for testing and holding IEP meetings so that you know whether your child is eligible, and so that students receive the services they need.
If the evaluation shows that your child is eligible for special education services, the IEP Team will develop an IEP for your child. As you and the other members of the IEP Team discuss your child’s needs during the IEP meeting, one decision you will make together is whether your child will need COVID-19 Compensatory Services because of the delays in testing and holding an IEP meeting. This is true for all students newly eligible for special education services whose eligibility determination was delayed due to the pandemic, including young children referred by Early Intervention.
Your Child Has Moved From One District To Another Or Is Attending A New Charter or Vocational/Technical School
If your child will attend a district, charter school, or vocational technical school in school year 2020-21 that is different from the district or school they attended in Spring 2020, then the new district or school is responsible for convening the IEP Team to decide whether your child needs COVID-19 Compensatory Services and/or New IEP Services. The new district or school might invite a representative from your former district or school to attend, because the former districts will pay for COVID-19 Compensatory Services.
Your Child Attends A Collaborative Or Approved Special Education School
If your child is in an out-of-district placement, the district responsible for your child’s special education program will convene an IEP meeting. The district will work with the collaborative or the approved special education school to make sure the Team has all the information it needs to consider whether your child needs COVID-19 Compensatory Services or New IEP Services.
Your district should include a representative of the collaborative or approved special education school in any planning conversations even if you decide not to convene an IEP meeting and instead discuss your child’s needs with an administrator.
Your Child Is Or Will Be 22 Years Old Between March 17 And December 23, 2020
If your child is turning 22 by December 23rd or turned 22 when school buildings were closed, you and the other members of the IEP team can work together to make your child’s transition to adult life as smooth as possible. DESE’s guidance indicates that it will be important to convene an IEP meeting, even if your child’s 22nd birthday has already passed, if:
Your child was unable to access services during the unexpected suspension of in-person education.
Your child regressed or failed to make effective progress during remote learning.
Your child has significant difficulty with transitions and changes in routine, and there is concern that the suspension of in-person education will result in an unduly challenging move to adult agency services if no additional school services are provided.
You and your child have been unable to follow through on identified transitional services with adult agencies because of COVID-19, or the adult agency(ies) have been unable to follow through with you because of COVID-19.
Your child had been expected to fulfill the requirements for the competency determination by their 22nd birthday but was unable to do so because in-person education was suspended.
If your child is over age 14, your child will be invited to attend the IEP meeting as well. If they will be receiving services from an adult agency, the district will invite a representative from that agency to attend, too. It’s important that school staff and agency staff communicate and collaborate with you to help your child.
At the meeting, you, your child, and the other IEP Team members will keep your child’s transition needs and plans for adult life in mind when considering whether your child needs COVID-19 Compensatory Services.
Keep in mind that you also have the option to not request an IEP meeting, if you feel that your child’s needs can be met through an informal meeting as described above in this Fact Sheet, or if you feel that your child has already successfully transitioned to adult life and has no more need of school services.
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Newton/Wellesley know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Newton/Wellesley are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Newton/Wellesley today for a free consultation - (617) 332-9000.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Newton/Wellesley want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Our Schools, DESE Family Fact Sheet, Part 2 of 3
The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) continues to publish guidance for schools and districts. The following highlights the guidance for schools administrators and districts to use as they work with families to help students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) recover as much as possible from the school disruptions that occurred because of COVID-19. To view the documentation in full You can find the guidance here: Mass DESE COVID-19 Resources.
This Fact Sheet summarizes the main points in DESE’s guidance for families. DESE encourages families to keep in touch with your child’s educators and administrators, and to talk about what the new guidance means for you and your child. If you belong to your local Special Education Parent Advisory Council (SEPAC), you can also collaborate with your school and district to plan and put in place policies and practices that will help all students with IEPs, in addition to your own child.
The current state of the COVID-19 pandemic is continually evolving. What is true today may not be tomorrow. At this time, the evidence suggests schools have not played a significant role in COVID-19 transmission and that children, particularly younger children, are less likely than adults to be infected with COVID-19.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
Your Child’s Right To Implementation Of Their IEP And A Free And Appropriate Public Education (FAPE)
It is important for you to know that special education laws provide that every student with an IEP must have a Free and Appropriate Public Education (FAPE). The U.S. Department of Education has made clear that students with IEPs must receive FAPE even during the pandemic. However, FAPE may look different because of COVID-19. For example, to protect the health and safety of students and their educators, when schools were closed in the spring your child probably received special education instruction and services by using a computer or phone, instead of being in a classroom.
Starting With Data
All decisions about the COVID-19 Compensatory Services your child may need must be individualized and based on information and data. Because your child has spent several months in your full-time company, schools and districts should prioritize collecting data and information from you. You can give your school partners important information about your child’s access to learning, engagement, attention, behavior, progress, skills, home experiences, and the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on them. The Team needs to learn from you whether your child had difficulty accessing services remotely because of their disability, because of problems with the Internet or computer devices, because your child needed to have an interpreter or materials translated, or for any other reason.
After your child’s IEP Team (which includes you)looks at all of the information and data on your child’s progress toward meeting IEP goals, the Team will determine whether your child needs these services and supports.
Deciding What Support Your Child Needs
DESE recommends that you and the other members of the IEP Team use questions like these to guide your conversations during the Team meeting. Not necessarily all of them will need to be asked and answered to decide whether your child needs COVID-19 Compensatory Services.
Were some services on your child’s IEP not offered? Were there services on the IEP that your child did not access remotely when in-person education was suspended?
Did your child lose any skills?
Did your child fail to make effective progress toward achieving their IEP goals?
Did your child fail to make effective progress in the general curriculum?
Does your child need additional supports and/or services temporarily to help recover from the time they did not access services remotely?
What kinds of General Education Recovery Supports will your school or district offer? Will the General Education Recovery Support be enough to help your child regain skills and knowledge that were affected when in-person education was postponed because of COVID-19?
Will your child need COVID-19 Compensatory Services? What kinds? How much? It is important to note that these services may not be the exact same number of IEP service hours they missed; however, the services must address your child’s individual needs. The goal of COVID-19 Compensatory Services is to help your child recover from educational disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. You and the other members of the IEP team will discuss which services will be necessary to do that.
Will your child need new IEP Services? What kinds? How much? You may decide with your school partners that your child needs a re-evaluation or a new testing if your child has not yet been tested in the new area of suspected disability.
Having An IEP Team Meeting Or Talking To The District Without Convening The IEP Team
There are two ways that you and the school district can discuss and decide whether your child needs COVID-19 Compensatory Services. The first is having an IEP meeting. The meeting can be with the full IEP Team, or if you decide that it’s not necessary to have an IEP meeting with everybody on the Team, you can meet with only some Team members. For example, you might feel that as long as you have your child’s written math assessment, you don’t need to speak with your child’s math teacher, even though that teacher would normally attend at Team meeting. The school needs to have your permission to have an IEP meeting without the usual members present.
Another option is for you and the school district together to choose not to convene an IEP meeting and discuss your child’s need for COVID-19 Compensatory Services with your school more informally. In this case, you may feel that your child’s needs can be met fully and efficiently by talking informally with your school. It is the parent’s choice whether to skip the IEP meeting and instead discuss their child’s need for COVID-19 Compensatory Services with an administrator. If you decide that an IEP meeting is unnecessary, your district will document this with you in writing. Any decision about services or supports will also be documented in writing by the district as is explained below.
Documenting The Support Your Child Needs
The different kinds of support your child needs can be documented in different ways.
All children can use the General Education Recovery Support offered by their school. Schools and districts are not required to write down and give you a list of the general education recovery support your child will receive, but it is a good idea to talk about these services with your child’s IEP Team. If you have questions about general education recovery support, it is a good idea to reach out to your child’s teacher or the school principal to find out more about how the school is helping all students return to learning this fall.
If you and the other members of your child’s IEP team agree at an IEP meeting or through an informal meeting that your child needs COVID-19 Compensatory Services, the district must write down the type and amount of service(s), how often the service(s) will happen and for how long, and how your child’s progress will be monitored, and whether transportation is needed in order to access those services. The district should use DESE’s form, Notice of Proposed School District Action/N1, or meeting notes, and give you a copy in your home language.
During the current school year, your child might receive COVID-19 Compensatory Services in person or remotely.
Any New IEP Services needed because your child has new disability-related needs will be documented on the IEP formorIEP Amendment Form.
Included in Part 3- Testing, Moving From Districts, Attending A Collaborative, and If Your Child Is The Age Of 22.
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Our Schools, DESE Family Fact Sheet, Part 1 of 3
The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) continues to publish guidance for schools and districts. The following highlights the guidance for schools administrators and districts to use as they work with families to help students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) recover as much as possible from the school disruptions that occurred because of COVID-19. To view the documentation in full You can find the guidance here: Mass DESE COVID-19 Resources.
This Fact Sheet summarizes the main points in DESE’s guidance for families. DESE encourages families to keep in touch with your child’s educators and administrators, and to talk about what the new guidance means for you and your child. If you belong to your local Special Education Parent Advisory Council (SEPAC), you can also collaborate with your school and district to plan and put in place policies and practices that will help all students with IEPs, in addition to your own child.
The current state of the COVID-19 pandemic is continually evolving. What is true today may not be tomorrow. At this time, the evidence suggests schools have not played a significant role in COVID-19 transmission and that children, particularly younger children, are less likely than adults to be infected with COVID-19.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
Your Child’s Right To Implementation Of Their IEP And A Free And Appropriate Public Education (FAPE)
It is important for you to know that special education laws provide that every student with an IEP must have a Free and Appropriate Public Education (FAPE). The U.S. Department of Education has made clear that students with IEPs must receive FAPE even during the pandemic. However, FAPE may look different because of COVID-19. For example, to protect the health and safety of students and their educators, when schools were closed in the spring your child probably received special education instruction and services by using a computer or phone, instead of being in a classroom.
Definitions
In its guidance to schools and districts, DESE defined three kinds of services to help students with IEPs recover from school disruptions caused by the pandemic when the Governor ordered that in-person education was stopped, beginning in March 2020:
General Education Recovery Support
This is support that schools and districts may give to all students, including students with IEPs, to help them regain the skills and knowledge they lost when in-person instruction was suspended in the spring because of the pandemic, and to help them be well emotionally and socially.
COVID-19 Compensatory Services
These are special education instruction and services provided in addition to your child’s ongoing IEP services. If your child regressed or did not make effective progress in meeting their IEP goals because of the pandemic, these services will specifically address the effects of delayed, interrupted, suspended, or inaccessible IEP services.
New IEP Services
Your child may need additional special education services to address new areas of disability-related need. If so, these are called “New IEP Services” and your child’s IEP Team will discuss and include these new services in your child’s IEP.
Prioritizing students
While all students’ education was affected by the sudden shift to remote instruction and service delivery, some students with IEPs experienced more significant challenges than others. DESE is asking schools and districts to prioritize specific students when determining the need for these services. These specific groups of students are:
Students with complex and significant needs:
students already identified as “high needs” through the IEP process on the form entitled “Primary Disability/Level of Need-PL 3.”What a student’s level of need is depends on (1) where the student receives services (in or out of the general education classroom); (2) whether services are provided by general educators, special educators, paraprofessionals, or related service providers; and (3) the percent of time during the school day that the student receives special education services.
students who could not engage in remote learning due to their disability-related needs or lack of technology;
students who primarily use aided and augmentative communication (AAC);
students who are homeless;
students in foster care or congregate care; and
students dually identified as English Learners;
Preschool-aged children whose eligibility evaluations or start of preschool special education services have been delayed or interrupted; and
Students who turned 22 during the suspension of in-person education or who will turn 22 during the first three months of the 2020-21 school year, and whose transition programs were interrupted or suspended before they aged out.
The Department has recommended that parents and the IEP Team work together to make decisions about COVID-19 Compensatory Services for students in these high priority groups by December 15, 2020.
For students who are not in the high priority groups, school staff will take some time to observe your child to see how they are adjusting to the new educational environment this fall. They will also review data and communicate with you about your child’s learning and emotional needs.Schools and districts will work with you to make sure your child has the services and supports they need.
Included in Part 2- Starting Data, Deciding Appropriate Support Level, How To Meet During COVID-19, and Supporting Documentation
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Our Schools, DESE Guidance For Student Groups And Events
As the Commonwealth, School Districts and local communities continue to manage the ever-changing pandemic environment and create some semblance of normalcy for our children it is important to understand how the need for safety impacts student groups and events. The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education has issued guidance to help school districts and parents to navigate these uncharted waters. Below are excerpts from the DESE's recommendations. To view recommendations in their entirety click here.
The current state of the COVID-19 pandemic is continually evolving. What is true today may not be tomorrow. At this time, the evidence suggests schools have not played a significant role in COVID-19 transmission and that children, particularly younger children, are less likely than adults to be infected with COVID-19.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
Guidance For Student Groups and School Events For School Year 2020-2021
According to the Massachusetts DESE’s and the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs the following guidance is intended to aid districts and schools in planning for the possible need to mixing of cohorts and school events that may require additional safety considerations.
Student activities provide important opportunities to develop leadership and teamwork skills, engage in new experiences, and serve their community. We strongly encourage schools and districts to continue providing these opportunities to students this fall. Adaptations to these activities, however, are necessary to support the safety of students and staff.
Specifically, this guidance covers:
Student activities before and after school
Non-athletic student groups
Non-athletic interschool competitions
Volunteering
Gatherings with outside participants
Leaving school grounds
Note: As the DESE continues to monitor COVID-19 trends and the latest medical research the need to amend these guidelines may arise. Districts and schools should also reference the extensive reopening guidance issued by DESE for more information on core health and safety practices that schools must adopt this fall.
Specific guidance by type of activity
Non-Athletic Student Groups
Non-athletic student group meetings are likely to involve increased mixing between student cohorts. This may be more relevant for elementary students, who likely will have stricter cohorts. Whenever feasible and to the maximum extent possible, these meetings should be held virtually.
For in-person meetings, we recommend the following guidelines:
Group meetings should be supervised by staff and must abide by DESE’s core health and safety guidelines (including masks, physical distance, frequent handwashing).
Group sizes should be reduced and work organized into cohorts to the extent feasible.
Non-Athletic Inter-school Competitions
Whenever feasible and to the maximum extent possible, inter-school competitions should be held virtually. There are online resources to support these virtual interactions. In-person interschool competitions are permitted if at least 6 feet of distance can be maintained between individuals and participants and attendees wear masks at all times.
If an interschool competition is held in person, it must abide by the guidelines below for large gatherings and leaving school grounds.
To the maximum extent feasible, interschool competitions should:
Not share equipment
Be held outdoors, if possible
Shorten events or reduce participants
Incorporate protective equipment in a safe manner to further reduce spread of respiratory particles
Volunteering
Any volunteer activities must abide by DESE’s core health and safety guidelines (including masks, physical distance, frequent handwashing).
Consider volunteer activities that are outdoors and do not require person-to-person interaction (e.g., planting flowers in a park).
General guidance for gatherings with outside participants or leaving school grounds
Gatherings of 10 or More That Include Outside Participants
Whenever feasible and to the maximum extent possible, these gatherings should be moved online. Online events can be held where all participants are virtual, or where students and staff are in person, but audiences are virtual.
In-person gatherings (such as events and performances) should be discouraged and must abide by the following safety requirements. Only essential, student-centered events should be held in person, such as student group activities or inter-school competitions.
Gatherings of 10 or more that include outside participants, such as in-person events, inter-school competitions, and field trips, typically involve families and others outside of the school community, including people who may be in higher risk groups. As a result, it is important to put in place additional safety considerations.
Whenever feasible and to the maximum extent possible, hold all events or competitions outdoors.
Masks are required except when unsafe due to age, medical condition, or disability.
Indoor gatherings are limited to 8 persons per 1,000 square feet of accessible, indoor floor space and never more than 25 persons in a single, enclosed indoor space.
Outdoor gatherings are limited to 25 percent of the maximum permitted occupancy of the facility or space, or 8 persons per 1,000 square feet if no occupancy limitation is on record, and never more than 50 persons in a single outdoor space.
For outdoor performances involving singing or brass or wind instruments, there must be at least 25 feet of distance between performers and the first row of the audience.
Indoor performances, including theater, band, or orchestra, are not permitted at this time, but may be in the future in accordance with state guidelines.
Attendees should be informed in the weeks leading up to and including the day of the event, and at the entrance to the event, that they must not attend if they are feeling unwell or showing any symptoms of COVID-19.
Consider scheduling multiple events, if needed, to allow for physical distancing.
If the event is ticketed, tickets should be sold online in advance, if possible. Consider touchless payment for in-person ticket sales,and use handwashing before and after transactions.
Establish directional pathways to manage visitor flow for foot traffic in order to minimize contact (e.g., one-way entrance and exit to shows, one-way pathways). Post clearly visible signage regarding these policies.
Encourage the use of electronic versions or no-touch displays in place of commonly touched physical materials (such as programs or playbills) where possible. All commonly touched physical materials must be discarded or sanitized between use.
Ensure access to handwashing facilities on site, including soap and running water, wherever possible, and encourage frequent handwashing; alcohol-based hand sanitizers with at least 60 percent alcohol may be used as an alternative.
Leaving School Grounds
Whenever feasible and to the maximum extent possible, consider virtual alternatives to leaving school grounds. Generally, it is not recommended to hold organized school trips leaving school grounds.
However, the risk level of leaving school grounds depends on the type of activity and transportation for the trip. All trips leaving school grounds must comply with all health and safety guidance, including physical distancing, mask wearing, hand washing, and sanitation.
If a school trip includes walking or a brief ride that abides by transportation guidelines, takes place where significant interaction with the public is not expected, and abides by the health and safety guidelines, it is permitted. For example, students may walk to a nearby park to observe plant and animal life during science class.
If a school trip includes a long bus ride (more than three hours one way), results in close interaction with additional people (e.g., within 6 feet of outside chaperones or the public), or cannot abide by the health and safety guidelines, it is not permitted.
Field trips can pose an additional risk due to the need to travel offsite and the need for additional chaperones. Ideally, all field trips should be held virtually.
Out of state travel is not recommended. If an out of state trip occurs, it must abide by the state COVID-19 travel order.
Consider how to adjust open campus policies (i.e., when older students are permitted to leave school campus during the school day) to better support health and safety guidelines, such as ensuring students follow health and safety guidelines upon entering or re-entering school.
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Our Schools, DESE - Update to the Child Nutrition Program Waiver
The following is an update which was released yesterday, September 22, 2020, by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education regarding the Child Nutrition Program. To view the update in its entirety click here.
The current state of the COVID-19 pandemic is continually evolving. What is true today may not be tomorrow. At this time, the evidence suggests schools have not played a significant role in COVID-19 transmission and that children, particularly younger children, are less likely than adults to be infected with COVID-19.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
NOTE: According to Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education areas of the school visited by the COVID-19 positive individual must be closed off and/or cleaned and disinfected. The area can be used 12 hours after cleaning/disinfecting has occurred.
On June 25, 2020 MA DESE Commissioner Jeffrey Riley announced school reopening guidance that created school opening options for MA school districts. Schools may start the year with full remote learning, hybrid remote and in person learning or full in person learning. School districts are required to submit to MA DESE a plan for all three options to be used at any point during the school year. The continuum of fall reopening models has created historic uncertainty for students, families, and schools. It is unclear how many schools will reopen in September with full remote learning and for how long.
Specific Program Requirements To Be Waived
The State agency is requesting to waive the requirement that children must be present with parents or guardians in order for children to receive FFVP during COVID-19 that was included in the USDA FNS Q&A SP12-2020 under question 4 released on April 9, 2020.
Food Pick Up
Elementary schools offering FFVP foods in a non-congregate setting may not provide these foods to parents or guardians unless they are accompanied by their child(ren). Section 19(b) of the NSLA requires schools participating in the FFVP to make fresh fruits and vegetables available “to students.” Because the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (P.L. 116-127) did not include FFVP as a “qualified program,” the nationwide waiver allowing parents to pick up meals for children at non-congregate sites does not apply to FFVP.
Alternative Procedures And Anticipated Impact On Program Operations
If approved, the State agency will allow SFAs who are offering remote learning services to continue to utilize their FFVP grant funds by purchasing additional fruits and vegetables to be provided to children with the Child Nutrition Program meals. The funds will not be used to purchase components of the unitized meal. FFVP funds will continue to be used to purchase additional fresh fruits and vegetables to increase student exposure to these foods. SFAs will be instructed to follow the same food safety procedures they are currently using.
The State agency will continue to monitor FFVP reimbursement requests to ensure that the purchases and administrative costs are appropriate to the Program. There are no impacts on technology, State systems, or monitoring.
State Regulatory Barriers
There are currently no State level regulatory barriers related to this specific issue.
Anticipated Challenges
MA DESE does not anticipate that the implementation of this waiver will pose any challenges at the State or sponsor level since the sponsoring organizations are currently distributing remote meals successfully to parents under SFSP/SSO. Alternatively, high needs children will continue to benefit from increased access to fresh fruits and vegetables and schools can use already encumbered resources.
Proposed Monitoring
MA DESE will continue to closely monitor program operators and sites during the application and administrative review process. All aspects of operation will be reviewed according to regulations and guidance. MA DESE will require corrective action as necessary to ensure Program integrity.
Proposed Reporting
No later than September 30, 2021, the MA DESE will report to USDA the number of sponsors, sites and overall impact of this waiver.
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Our Schools, DESE FAQ From The Commissioner's Desk
As schools reopen, common questions continue to arise from district and school leaders on how to implement the guidance that the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education issued over the summer. The DESE will continue to issue an intermittent FAQ, developed in collaboration with the Department of Public Health, regarding these questions. The information below provides further clarifications on the following topics: when to consider suspending in-person instruction, whether alternative diagnoses can negate the need for a COVID test, guidance for safely hosting ACT or SAT tests, and mask usage.
The current state of the COVID-19 pandemic is continually evolving. What is true today may not be tomorrow. At this time, the evidence suggests schools have not played a significant role in COVID-19 transmission and that children, particularly younger children, are less likely than adults to be infected with COVID-19.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
1) How do we know if we need to suspend in-person learning for our school or district?
There is no one threshold or metric that indicates a school or district should suspend in-person learning. District and school leaders can work closely with DESE’s COVID Reporting Unit (781-338-3500) when there is a positive case in their district to determine the appropriate next steps. These next steps can include implementing existing DESE protocols to notify close contacts for testing and isolation, conferring with local public health and/or the Massachusetts Department of Public Health to determine if transmission is occurring in the class or school, or seeking advice on whether to suspend in-person learning for that class, grade, or school. It is important to note that these decisions need to be made based on local context, occur in collaboration with DESE and the local board of health, and may be based on the following factors:
If there is a need for an extensive cleaning of the building or other facility mitigation
If the mobile testing unit results, or other test results, suggest widespread transmission is occurring
If there are widespread absences among students and staff due to illness
If the school is in a district reported as “red” on the DPH health metric for the past three weeks, and risk of transmission to students and/or staff is increased
The school department and the local board of health may have other local factors that are important to consider when making this decision.
2) Does a symptomatic child with an alternative diagnosis, such as a strep throat, still need a COVID test before returning to school?
In order to protect schools from the introduction of COVID, testing of symptomatic individuals should be the default practice. Students with acute onset of new symptoms (especially respiratory symptoms such as cough, shortness of breath, sore throat) or fever should almost always receive a negative COVID test before returning to school. Health care providers have clinical discretion to consider chronic illnesses or symptoms such as headache and abdominal or gastrointestinal symptoms and use clinical judgment to defer testing when an alternative cause is firmly established.
3) Can schools host SAT and ACT tests?
Districts and school leaders have asked questions on how to safely administer SAT and ACT tests during the 2020-2021 school year, especially as many students were not able to take these tests as anticipated last spring. As long as the testing is sponsored by or administered by the school or district, this testing can occur in alignment if DESE health and safety guidelines for gatherings with outside participants (available here) are followed. Key health and safety requirements for gatherings with outside participants include maintaining at least six feet of distance between individuals, wearing masks at all times, proper hand hygiene, and a capacity limitation of 8 persons per 1,000 square feet and never more than 25 individuals in a single, enclosed indoor space.
4) What masks are recommended?
DESE has received a number of queries on the recommended types of masks from educators. Masks should cover the nose and mouth and fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face. Masks should be secured with ties or ear loops and include multiple layers of fabric. If students are not able to wear a mask due to medical, behavioral, or other challenges, they may consider wearing a face shield. Transparent masks may be the best option for both teachers and students in classes for deaf and hard of hearing students. They may also be useful for teachers and younger students who rely on visual or facial cues.
5) How can masks be safely removed?
When putting on and taking off a mask, do not touch the front of it. Only handle the ties or ear loops. Wash your hands or use hand sanitizer after removing a mask, and before putting on a mask. Be careful not to touch your eyes, nose, and mouth when removing the mask. Masks should be placed on napkins or paper towels (with the inside face up) when removed for meals or mask breaks. Masks should be washed regularly. More information on how to wash masks can be found visiting the CDC websiteor clicking here.
6) How should mask breaks be conducted?
It is recommended that students have at least two mask breaks per day (e.g. mealtime and recess). As it is recommended that students younger than second grade wear masks, it is important to note that they may need additional mask breaks during the day. Mask breaks should be held outdoors, if feasible. Students must be at least 6 feet apart during mask breaks. Hand washing facilities or hand sanitizer must be available when entering and leaving this space. Students should remove masks as outlined above.
NOTE: According to Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education areas of the school visited by the COVID-19 positive individual must be closed off and/or cleaned and disinfected. The area can be used 12 hours after cleaning/disinfecting has occurred.
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Our Schools, DESE FAQ Special Education Qs 40-44
The way in which our children learn and our educators teach to begin this school year will be will challenging for both to say the least. Regardless of the reopening model chosen by your school district, all schools will be providing remote learning to some extent. Parents whose children require special education in the COVID-19 environment may be struggling with how these necessary changes may impact the ability of school districts to meet their children's needs. The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education has put together a FAQ to help parents navigate these uncharted waters.
The current state of the COVID-19 pandemic is continually evolving. What is true today may not be tomorrow. At this time, the evidence suggests schools have not played a significant role in COVID-19 transmission and that children, particularly younger children, are less likely than adults to be infected with COVID-19.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
The Massachusetts DESE recommends that districts and schools select high quality, and subject areas.
Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Special Education Related Services, and Models of Learning
Strategies for Engaging Families
40) In what ways is family engagement important to focus on at this time?
Family engagement is crucial for the healthy growth of children and youth. Quality family engagement has a lasting effect on a child’s social-emotional health as well as school readiness and academic success.
Research shows that families want their children to do well and that they believe school is important. Partnering with families improves students’ grades and motivation, helps student academic achievement. Partnering with families also helps teachers learn more about students' needs, which is information they can apply toward better meeting those needs. Engaging families can be done through phone calls, emails, texts and web-based activities.
41) What should we focus on to strengthen family engagement as schools reopen?
One of the first steps is to build partnerships with families. It will be important to continue to build and strengthen your relationships with families during the school reopening process. Building relationships encourages fundamental practices that include but are not limited to:
Recognizing and respecting the uniqueness of each family,
Keeping families and youth voices and perspectives at the center, and
Planning and implementing activities with families and youth and not for families and youth.
42) How do we build a partnership with families?
Talk with families using clear language.
Communicate in the primary language of the home, using interpreters and translating documents, when appropriate.
Make sure to limit educational jargon and consider the translation needs of the family.
Be honest in your conversation. If you do not know an answer to a question, you can let the family know that you will get back to them.
Be sure to follow up with the family.
Discuss concerns and offer suggestions, supports and resources.
Plan next steps together.
43) What are strategies we can use to build relationships with families during the school reopening process?
Schools and community organizations play a crucial role in establishing and strengthening shared connections with families. the Department has developed STRENGTHENING PARTNERSHIPS: A Framework for Prenatal through Young Adulthood Family Engagement in Massachusetts. Five Guiding Principles form the basis of this Framework and provide a foundation for creating, within systems and organizations, a culture that values and thrives on family engagement.
Each family is unique, and all families represent diverse structures.
Acknowledging and accepting the need to engage all families is essential for successful engagement of diverse families and includes recognizing the strengths that come from their diverse backgrounds.
Building a respectful, trusting, and reciprocal relationship is a shared responsibility of families, practitioners, organizations, and systems.
Families are their child’s first and best advocate.
Family engagement must be equitable.
The Flamboyan Foundation has developed strategies to build relationships and partnerships with families:
Be Authentic
Center on the student
Learn and focus on what is important to the family
Offer frequent and consistent communication
Reach out to all families
44) Are there resources available to help build relationships with families during the school reopening process?
There are many resources that provide ideas and strategies for building relationships with families. You can also work with your Special Education Parent Advisory Council (SEPAC) to be part of the process of strengthening Family Engagement.When building relationships with families, please consider that some parents/guardians are limited English proficient and may need translations or interpretations to be able to effectively engage in this collaborative work.
You may find the following resources helpful now and in the future:
NOTE: According to Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education areas of the school visited by the COVID-19 positive individual must be closed off and/or cleaned and disinfected. The area can be used 12 hours after cleaning/disinfecting has occurred.
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Our Schools, DESE FAQ Special Education Qs 36-39
The way in which our children learn and our educators teach to begin this school year will be will challenging for both to say the least. Regardless of the reopening model chosen by your school district, all schools will be providing remote learning to some extent. Parents whose children require special education in the COVID-19 environment may be struggling with how these necessary changes may impact the ability of school districts to meet their children's needs. The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education has put together a FAQ to help parents navigate these uncharted waters.
The current state of the COVID-19 pandemic is continually evolving. What is true today may not be tomorrow. At this time, the evidence suggests schools have not played a significant role in COVID-19 transmission and that children, particularly younger children, are less likely than adults to be infected with COVID-19.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
The Massachusetts DESE recommends that districts and schools select high quality, and subject areas.
Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Special Education Related Services, and Models of Learning
Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE)
36) Will districts continue to receive referrals to Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE)?
Yes, districts should continue to accept referrals from families, caregivers, and Early Intervention (EI) programs, in accordance with Child Find requirements. EI programs will refer all children who are potentially eligible for ECSE and who will be turning 3. EI regulations require the EI program to make referrals at least 90 days before the child’s third birthday.
37) Do districts need to complete the eligibility process for children referred from EI?
Districts must accept and act on referrals from EI providers. This includes attending the virtual Transition Planning Conference (TPC), reviewing existing and EI assessments, and conducting an evaluation of the child to determine if the child is eligible for special education services.
For districts that were unable to complete the eligibility process without a face-to-face assessment, an extension of EI services was made available for children who turned 3 between March 15, 2020 and August 31, 2020. For those students, EI services can continue until special education eligibility determination can be completed and the child has transitioned to special education, or until October 15, 2020. Because many districts may have been unable to conduct evaluations, convene IEP meetings, and initiate services by the child’s third birthday, and children may have been supported through this extension of EI services, districts can expect an increased number of children for whom they need to complete the eligibility determination process and an increased number of children needing special education services. District leaders should be prepared to complete the transition process, have completed assessments, and an IEP signed for this group of students by October 15, 2020.
38) How can schools and districts complete the eligibility process for young children if they cannot complete a face-to-face assessment?
Schools and districts are encouraged to consider any and all evaluation information that is already available, and conduct additional assessments that are needed, as appropriate for the child under consideration.Schools and districts should make a decision regarding the feasibility of completing the eligibility determination process on an individual basis. Use the following guide for each child to determine if the eligibility process can be completed. See above for further guidance related to assessments.
For some young children, face-to-face assessments will be necessary to determine eligibility. If assessments cannot be completed, and the child has been identified as potentially eligible for ECSE by Early Intervention providers, the following special considerations should be discussed with families:
Provide learning opportunities in general education preschool, if available.
Consult with Regional Consultation Program (RCP) specialists to provide resources to families and/or schools and districts.
Connect with Coordinated Family and Community Engagement (CFCE) grantees for families to receive supports and remote playgroup opportunities.
Collaborate with local EI programs on how to support the transition. With concurrence from the family, EI programs may complete additional assessments that may facilitate the process for determining eligibility. The EI program may request a waiver from the DPH to support and prepare the family for the transition. The waiver is not intended for the continuation of Individuals Family Service Plan (IFSP) services after the child’s third birthday.
39) What are the service options for children who are transitioning from EI to ECSE?
After eligibility is determined, there are options for the provision of services.
IEP teams can decide to:
Continue the IFSP for one year after the child is found eligible for ECSE. Services are considered Part B services and are provided by local schools and districts.
Contract with EI providers to provide services and to support EC transition.
Write an IEP
Your staff can provide services, or
District, and EI staff can collaboratively provide services to support EC transition.
Write a partial IEP and conduct an extended evaluation.
NOTE: According to Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education areas of the school visited by the COVID-19 positive individual must be closed off and/or cleaned and disinfected. The area can be used 12 hours after cleaning/disinfecting has occurred.
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Our Schools, DESE FAQ Special Education Qs 31-35
The way in which our children learn and our educators teach to begin this school year will be will challenging for both to say the least. Regardless of the reopening model chosen by your school district, all schools will be providing remote learning to some extent. Parents whose children require special education in the COVID-19 environment may be struggling with how these necessary changes may impact the ability of school districts to meet their children's needs. The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education has put together a FAQ to help parents navigate these uncharted waters.
The current state of the COVID-19 pandemic is continually evolving. What is true today may not be tomorrow. At this time, the evidence suggests schools have not played a significant role in COVID-19 transmission and that children, particularly younger children, are less likely than adults to be infected with COVID-19.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
The Massachusetts DESE recommends that districts and schools select high quality, and subject areas.
Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Special Education Related Services, and Models of Learning
Bureau of Special Education Appeals (BSEA) Information
31) How should schools and districts communicate with and send documents to the BSEA?
During the COVID-19 crisis, the BSEA is maintaining minimal staff onsite. Therefore,administrative tasks that are not governed by timelines may take longer to fulfill (e.g., processing rejected IEPs). With regard to notice of rejected IEPs, if mailing or faxing documents is not feasible, notice of rejected IEPs can now be sent via email to BSEA at BSEArejectedIEPs@mass.gov. By contrast, hearing requests must still be faxed or sent via U.S. mail.
Consistent with BSEA Standing Order 20-02C, to ensure timely receipt of submissions during the COVID-19 pandemic, Hearing Officers and Mediators may permit the submission of correspondence and documents electronically, in addition to paper filing (via fax or regular mail). Electronic submissions to BSEA must be simultaneously copied to all other parties. All hearing requests must be submitted via mail, fax, or hand delivery.
32) Can parties obtain an extension of due process hearing timelines?
While the IDEA provides that a final decision on a due process complaint must be issued not later than 45 days after the expiration of the 30-day resolution period, a hearing officer can grant an extension of time beyond the required timelines at the request of either party for good cause. The COVID-19 emergency does not per se constitute good cause; the hearing officer will make a case by case determination on requests for extension including considerations that may be COVID-19 related.
33) Are BSEA proceedings, including mediations, occurring remotely or in person?
Effective March 15, 2020, and consistent with BSEA Standing Order 20-01C, the BSEA is conducting all proceedings remotely/virtually until further notice. This includes mediations, facilitated IEP meetings, settlement conferences, pre-hearing conferences, and hearings.The BSEA will contact parties as the date of the scheduled proceeding approaches to make necessary arrangements. Any request for change of date, location, or medium for holding due process hearings will continue to be considered on a case by case basis by the hearing officer.
Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE)
34) Do schools and districts need to complete developmental screenings as outlined in 603 CMR 28.03(1)(d)?
Yes. Schools and districts are required to complete Preschool Screenings for three and four-year-old children and for all children who are of age to enter kindergarten. Such screening shall be designed to review a child's development and to assist in identification of those children who should be referred for an evaluation to determine eligibility for special education services. The Department recognizes that schools and districts are conducting virtual interviews with families and caregivers to begin gathering information until in-person screening can occur, using current health and safety requirements.
35) Is there any specific guidance for submission of Child Outcome Summary (COS)/Indicator 7 data?
Data collection schedules and school or district cohort assignments are unchanged for Indicator 7/Early Childhood COS. Data for the COS will continue to be collected using the data collection schedule and cohort assignments. Schools and districts responsible for submitting COS data can expect to receive a letter by early October with information regarding data collection, timelines, and resources.
As schools and districts are implementing their reopening plans, special education services and supports to students, ECSE programs can continue to report on each child’s outcomes for the COS. Meetings with team members to discuss progress and outcomes should be included in the planning process.
NOTE: According to Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education areas of the school visited by the COVID-19 positive individual must be closed off and/or cleaned and disinfected. The area can be used 12 hours after cleaning/disinfecting has occurred.
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Our Schools, DESE FAQ Special Education Qs 26-30
The way in which our children learn and our educators teach to begin this school year will be will challenging for both to say the least. Regardless of the reopening model chosen by your school district, all schools will be providing remote learning to some extent. Parents whose children require special education in the COVID-19 environment may be struggling with how these necessary changes may impact the ability of school districts to meet their children's needs. The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education has put together a FAQ to help parents navigate these uncharted waters.
The current state of the COVID-19 pandemic is continually evolving. What is true today may not be tomorrow. At this time, the evidence suggests schools have not played a significant role in COVID-19 transmission and that children, particularly younger children, are less likely than adults to be infected with COVID-19.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
The Massachusetts DESE recommends that districts and schools select high quality, and subject areas.
Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Special Education Related Services, and Models of Learning
Out-of-District Placements and Approved Special Education Schools and Programs
26) How can residential programs for students with IEPs maintain health and safety during the COVID-19 outbreak?
The health and safety of the students and employees in residential schools is of utmost concern during the COVID-19 pandemic.The Executive Office of Health and Human Services (EOHHS) issued guidance, most recently updated on April 14, 2020, addressing the specific procedures and protocols for residential, congregate care, and shelter providers. This guidance includes background on COVID-19, protective measures, ways to mitigate the risk of spreading COVID-19, cases and suspected cases in residents or employees, and information on testing, reporting COVID-19 cases, providing care to residents, personal protective equipment, deep cleaning, and monitoring the emotional health of employees. EOHHS will update this guidance as needed.
State and Federal Monitoring and Assistance
27) Will data submission timelines be enforced for Tiered Focused Monitoring activities and State Performance Plan/Annual Performance Report indicators?
Tiered Focused Monitoring
Due date for submission of the Public School Tiered Focused Monitoring self-assessments and Indicator data has been extended to October 30, 2020:
Special education self-assessment?
Civil rights self-assessment?
English learner education self-assessment?
Indicator data submission for Indicators 11, 12 & 13?
with questions related to the English learner education self-assessment.
Indicator 7
See section on Early Childhood Special Education Services section for more information.
Indicator 14
Deadlines for Indicator 14 data submission have changed this year. The submission date is November 16, 2020. Schools and districts in Cohort 2 will use an online survey to learn about the further education and employment outcomes of their former students with IEPs. In July, the Department emailed all Cohort 2 special education administrators with detailed instructions for this year’s Indicator 14 data collection. For additional information, please contact Amanda Green at 781-338-3368 or Amanda.C.Green@mass.gov.
28) Will data submission timelines be enforced for program and mid-cycle reviews for collaboratives and approved special education day and residential programs in WBMS?
Self-assessments for the 2020-2021 WBMS data submission for collaboratives and approved special education day and residential programs are due on August 24, 2020. Please contact Jannelle Roberts at:
with questions or to discuss the individual circumstances of your collaborative or approved special education school if an extension is necessary.
29) Given the COVID-19 situation, can the period of availability for IDEA Part B grant funds be extended?
The U.S. Department of Education has approved Massachusetts’ waiver request for the extension to obligate IDEA FY19 funds.This means that FY19 IDEA funds (fund codes 240 & 262) set to expire on September 30, 2020 can now be used until September 30, 2021. If a school or district has any unexpended FY19 fund code 240 &fund code 262 funds, the Department urges the school or district to continue to spend down these funds first. If the district still has unexpended FY19 funds and would like to continue to use the funds until September 30, 2021, the Department’s Grants Management Office will automatically handle the obligation period adjustments for the school or district. Schools and districts do not need to take any extra steps to secure this additional time. Schools and districts may contact the Federal Grant Programs office with any questions at
30) With the extended period of availability of funds, can the district have a second year (until September 30, 2021) to carry over any unspent FY19 proportionate share funds?
The extended period of availability of FY19 funds does not change the spending requirements and time frame in IDEA regarding the expenditure of a proportionate share of a district’s IDEA Part B funds on equitable services for parentally placed private school students with disabilities attending a private school located in the district, or eligible homeschool students. The district’s equitable services obligation must be spent in the year in which funds were appropriated or obligated during a carry-over period of one additional year. See Electronic Code of Federal Regulations
NOTE: According to Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education areas of the school visited by the COVID-19 positive individual must be closed off and/or cleaned and disinfected. The area can be used 12 hours after cleaning/disinfecting has occurred.
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Our Schools, DESE FAQ Special Education Qs 20-25
The way in which our children learn and our educators teach to begin this school year will be will challenging for both to say the least. Regardless of the reopening model chosen by your school district, all schools will be providing remote learning to some extent. Parents whose children require special education in the COVID-19 environment may be struggling with how these necessary changes may impact the ability of school districts to meet their children's needs. The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education has put together a FAQ to help parents navigate these uncharted waters.
The current state of the COVID-19 pandemic is continually evolving. What is true today may not be tomorrow. At this time, the evidence suggests schools have not played a significant role in COVID-19 transmission and that children, particularly younger children, are less likely than adults to be infected with COVID-19.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
The Massachusetts DESE recommends that districts and schools select high quality, and subject areas.
Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Special Education Related Services, and Models of Learning
IEP Meetings, Timelines, and Other Procedural Requirements
20) Can the Department offer flexibility to schools and districts on meeting procedural timelines?
On April 27, 2020, U.S. Secretary of Education DeVos issued a report to Congress, declining to recommend waivers to the core tenets of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). This means that IDEA procedural timelines remain in effect. The Department has issued guidance to schools and districts on this topic. For more information, see COVID Special Education Technical Advisory 2020-2.
21) A student’s IEP expired during the period when in-person instruction was suspended. Will the IEP still be in effect?
Yes. The current IEP will remain in effect until a new IEP is developed and accepted, irrespective of the expired date reflected in the IEP form.
22) If the annual review of a student’s IEP is due, or if an IEP Team determines an IEP meeting is needed, how should the district hold the meeting if an in-person meeting is not possible?
IDEA regulations contemplate that IEP meetings may be held via telephone and/or video conference. Districts should continue to convene IEP Team meetings using these alternative means of meeting participation, if necessary. To convene an IEP meeting using telephone or video conferencing, districts must ensure that all IEP Team members, particularly those whose participation is required under IDEA, have access to necessary technology and accommodations to allow remote participation. Rather than using personal telephone lines or cell phones, school and district personnel may choose to use a third-party platform. For limited English proficient parents, districts must also ensure that interpreters are provided for IEP Team meetings and translate documents, when appropriate.
If required members of the IEP Team are unable to attend, IDEA regulations provide that Team members can be excused with agreement from the family, if:
The district and the family agree, in writing, that the attendance of the Team member is not necessary because the member’s area of the curriculum or related services is not being modified or discussed; or
The district and the family agree, in writing, to excuse a required Team member’s participation and the excused member provides written input into the development of the IEP to the family and the IEP Team prior to the meeting.
23) Should schools continue to issue student Progress Reports?
Yes. Schools, districts, collaborative programs, and approved special education schools must continue to issue student Progress Reports at least as often as report cards or progress reports are provided for students without disabilities in accordance with Special Education Laws.Progress Reports can be sent to families in multiple ways, e.g., U.S. mail, email, student information systems, or online communication platforms, and must be translated for families if necessary.
24) Should schools continue to maintain student health records?
Yes. Even though not all schools maintain electronic health records, schools should continue to maintain nursing documentation per the Department of Public Health (DPH). Records can be maintained through paper logs and/or by entering calls into the Student Information Management System (SIMS). DPH understands that it may not be possible for nurses to transfer all paper logs into electronic systems and encourages retaining all paper logs.
25) Should schools continue to submit Chapter 688 referrals for secondary students with severe disabilities?
Yes. Schools must continue to submit Chapter 688 referrals via the Virtual Gateway. These referrals are essential so that adult agencies (Department of Developmental Services, Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commissioner, Department of Mental Health, Massachusetts Commission for the Blind, Department of Children and Families, and Massachusetts Commission for the Deaf and Hard or Hearing) can request the appropriate amount of funding from the legislature to serve students with IEPs who will turn 22 and are eligible for adult agency services. 688 referrals should be completed by the district two years before the student’s anticipated date of exit, but even late referrals are useful.
Districts should submit with the referral form, at a minimum, the student’s most recent IEP and three-year evaluation. Parent consent during this emergency can be in the form of wet signature or e-signature, email, or verbal consent documented in district staff notes. Questions about 688 filing or referral should be sent to:
NOTE: According to Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education areas of the school visited by the COVID-19 positive individual must be closed off and/or cleaned and disinfected. The area can be used 12 hours after cleaning/disinfecting has occurred.
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Our Schools, DESE FAQ Special Education Qs 15-19
The way in which our children learn and our educators teach to begin this school year will be will challenging for both to say the least. Regardless of the reopening model chosen by your school district, all schools will be providing remote learning to some extent. Parents whose children require special education in the COVID-19 environment may be struggling with how these necessary changes may impact the ability of school districts to meet their children's needs. The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education has put together a FAQ to help parents navigate these uncharted waters.
The current state of the COVID-19 pandemic is continually evolving. What is true today may not be tomorrow. At this time, the evidence suggests schools have not played a significant role in COVID-19 transmission and that children, particularly younger children, are less likely than adults to be infected with COVID-19.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
The Massachusetts DESE recommends that districts and schools select high quality, and subject areas.
Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Special Education Related Services, and Models of Learning
Monitoring Student Progress
15) How can student progress be monitored during hybrid or remote learning?
Educators, service providers, parents/guardians, and students should review a student’s IEP to review the goals and objectives and identify the types of data that can be collected from the student, the family, and the home environment and develop a plan to collect ongoing data. Using the basic tenets of progress monitoring, school staff can reimagine their roles in a remote context, e.g., by using a tracking sheet to collect data from student videos, by interviewing parents/guardians and students, or by using assessments.
There are many resources to aid in this work, for example:
If parents/guardians are asked to assist with progress monitoring, please consider that some parents/guardians are limited English proficient and may need translations or interpretations to be able to effectively learn how to collect and communicate monitoring data to their school or district liaison.
16) How does the cancellation of the Spring 2020 administration of the MCAS impact competency determination requirements for students with IEPs who are anticipated to remain in secondary school until their 22nd birthday?
For general guidance on graduation for students with IEPs, please see the Department’s 2018 advisory, Secondary Transition Services and Graduation with a High School Diploma. Grade 12 students who were enrolled or received a certificate of attainment in March or End-of-Year SIMS and grade SP students who earned a certificate of attainment in End-of-Year SIMS are eligible to be considered for the modified competency determination (CD) if they have not yet passed one or more of the high school MCAS tests. Districts must certify the successful completion of at least one qualifying course via the ‘Competency Determination’ application in the DESE Security Portal, per instructions that have been shared with school or district administrators. The Security Portal application will be available through Friday, August 21, 2020. For further information, schools and districts should contact data@doe.mass.eduor visitDESE’s related guidance.
Schools and districts should also keep in mind that the MCAS appealsprocess is still available.
17) How does the cancellation of the Spring 2020 administration of the MCAS impact competency requirements for students with IEPs who do not meet the criteria referenced in the previous question?
IEP Meetings, Timelines, and Other Procedural Requirements
18) Do schools need to make changes to the student’s IEP in order to provide services during a hybrid or remote model during the 2020-2021 school year?
No. It is not necessary to convene an IEP Team before providing learning opportunities and services to students with IEPs if a school or district is using a hybrid or remote model at the beginning of the school year. Additionally, it is not necessary to amend the IEP for the purpose of delivering hybrid or remote services. Please download the Special Education, Related Services, and Models of Learning for the Department’s recommendation for written documentation of modified in-person, hybrid, or remote instruction.
19) What should schools and districts do if a family does not respond to outreach or refuses services?
Schools and districts should make repeated and varied attempts to reach out and engage families. In these cases, schools and districts should document all attempts to engage with families. All communication should be in the primary language of the home, using interpreters and translating documents, when appropriate.
If a parent/guardian does not accept services for their son/daughter, the school or district should ask that the parent/guardian document this refusal in writing. If the parent/guardian does not submit anything in writing, the school or district should also document a summary of the conversation or issue a letter summarizing the conversation to ensure clear communication
NOTE: According to Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education areas of the school visited by the COVID-19 positive individual must be closed off and/or cleaned and disinfected. The area can be used 12 hours after cleaning/disinfecting has occurred.
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Our Schools, DESE FAQ Special Education Qs 9-14
The way in which our children learn and our educators teach to begin this school year will be will challenging for both to say the least. Regardless of the reopening model chosen by your school district, all schools will be providing remote learning to some extent. Parents whose children require special education in the COVID-19 environment may be struggling with how these necessary changes may impact the ability of school districts to meet their children's needs. The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education has put together a FAQ to help parents navigate these uncharted waters.
The current state of the COVID-19 pandemic is continually evolving. What is true today may not be tomorrow. At this time, the evidence suggests schools have not played a significant role in COVID-19 transmission and that children, particularly younger children, are less likely than adults to be infected with COVID-19.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
The Massachusetts DESE recommends that districts and schools select high quality, and subject areas.
Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Special Education Related Services, and Models of Learning
9) What must schools and districts do to fulfill their responsibilities under IDEA equitable services?
IDEA equitable services requirements have not changed.Schools and districts remain responsible for all IDEA equitable services requirements, irrespective of whether the school or district is implementing an in-person, remote, or hybrid model of instruction and service delivery. Schools and districts should continue to engage in meaningful consultation with approved special education private school representatives and parents/guardians of parentally-placed private school students with disabilities, including parents/guardians of homeschool students, and include as part of consultation what, if any, changes in service delivery may be implemented in the new school year based on the instructional and service delivery model(s) implemented by the school or district.Consultation with the parents/guardians should be in the primary language of the home, using interpreters and translating documents, when appropriate.If changes are made to students’ service delivery, schools and districts must include those changes in the service plans developed in collaboration with students’ parents/guardians. As part of consultation, schools and districts should also discuss whether any unspent FY 20 funds will be carried over into FY 21.
10) Should a school or district continue to provide in-person services to students with disabilities that have been prioritized for in-person instruction if their districts have received a designation of "red" based on cases per 100,000?
If a district receives a red designation for a high average daily case rate in the Department of Public Health’s weekly update, the decision to continue to provide in-person instruction to vulnerable students (including those with disabilities, English learners, and students who have not engaged with remote learning) needs to be made at the local level. Solely receiving a red designation does not in any way automatically mean that all in-person services have to be discontinued. In fact, DESE recommends that districts continue to provide as much in-person instruction as possible to vulnerable students using the key safety protocols outlined in our reopening guidance.
11) Will all students with IEPs be eligible for compensatory services because of the disruption of in-person instruction and service delivery from March 17 until the end of the 2020-2021 school year?
Whether a student is entitled to receive compensatory services because of the suspension of in-person instruction in the spring due to COVID-19, is a fact-specific and individualized determination to be made by the IEP Team. The Department has issued guidance on this topic. For more information, see COVID-19 Special Education Technical Assistance Advisory 2021-1.
12) If a student is presenting with behavior that requires them to be physically restrained and a staff member must restrain the student, should the student continue to wear a mask?
Schools and districts are required to implement preventive and proactive behavioral supports and interventions to prevent the need for a physical restraint. The Department maintains a commitment to the reduction of physical restraint in schools and reminds schools and districts that all relevant regulatory procedures, as outlined in 603 CMR 46.00, must be followed prior to, during, and subsequent to any physical restraint. If a student does need to be physically restrained, a mask should not be on the face of the student. If the student was wearing a mask prior to being placed in a physical restraint, the mask should be removed as soon as is practical and safe. Students in physical restraints should not wear masks, regardless of the behaviors they are exhibiting because masks may restrict airflow, preventing staff from effectively monitoring the student’s breathing, and the mask might be inhaled or swallowed by the student.
13) May homeschool students receive special education services delivered by the school or district, pursuant to the IEP?
Yes. Homeschool plans must be reviewed and approved in advance by the school or district, including the special education portion of the plan. Schools and districts are responsible for providing special education services to homeschool students pursuant to the IEP. Services may be provided in-person or through remote learning; communication with families is essential for understanding how services will be provided.This communication should be in the primary language of the home, using interpreters and translating documents, when appropriate.
Educational Resources
14) How can educators and administrators find resources to support remote and hybrid learning?
The Department has created and is continuously updating a spreadsheet with resources for educators and administrators, to assist them in their work with students and families.This spreadsheet can be found on the COVID-19 resources page of the Office of Special Education Planning and Policy Development (SEPP).
In addition, the Department provides information regarding special education guidance on the special education webpage. Other guidance issued by the Department can be found on the COVID-19 Guidance/On the Desktop Messages webpage.Nationally, USED has designated the National Center for Systemic Instruction (NCSI)as a resource hub for remotely-provided special education services and supports. NCSI’s resource library has been specifically created to share instructional resources and service delivery solutions.
NOTE: According to Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education areas of the school visited by the COVID-19 positive individual must be closed off and/or cleaned and disinfected. The area can be used 12 hours after cleaning/disinfecting has occurred.
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
As late fall and eventually wintertime arrives in Framingham, MAso will good oldfassion New England snow storms. The issue with snow is that if the outside temperature rises too fast the melting snow can cause excessive flood damage to your commercial or residential property. When the snow melts, especially if piles of it are up against the exterior of your property, the resulting water can infiltrate the property.
The problem with vast amounts of rapidly melting snow is that the resulting water has nowhere to go, especially if the ground remains frozen. While properties may be "water-tight", they are never "waterproof". Cracks in foundations, improperly installed flashing, rotten clapboard siding, damaged weatherstripping are just a few common entryways for migrating water to find its way inside a property.
Depending on the severity, the resulting damage can range from wet carpets to actual structural damage. When carpet become wet they can suffer from delamination (the backing of the carpet becomes separated from its fibers) requiring the carpeting, and possibly the padding, to be removed replaced. Along with carpeting, hardwood and laminate flooring are also extremely susceptible to damage from moisture. This damage is usually more noticeable as the building materials can bow and may even pull apart.
When the resulting damage requires the removal of the flooring materials down to the subfloor, it is always a good idea to consult an expert. Why? Hidden danger may exist. Older flooring materials and adhesives may contain asbestos, which is extremely hazardous and can only be removed by professional mitigators. The certified technicians are trained at identifying the warning signs of materials that contain asbestos and know how to safely remove samples for testing. If any harmful minerals are found we will bring in certified asbestos mitigation teams to properly and safely remove the hazardous materials.
Calling in the experts of SERVPRO of Framingham at (508) 370-4400 will help you identify any potential risks associated with asbestos.
Planning To Reopen - Our Schools, DESE FAQ Special Education Qs 5-8
The way in which our children learn and our educators teach to begin this school year will be will challenging for both to say the least. Regardless of the reopening model chosen by your school district, all schools will be providing remote learning to some extent. Parents whose children require special education in the COVID-19 environment may be struggling with how these necessary changes may impact the ability of school districts to meet their children's needs. The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education has put together a FAQ to help parents navigate these uncharted waters.
The current state of the COVID-19 pandemic is continually evolving. What is true today may not be tomorrow. At this time, the evidence suggests schools have not played a significant role in COVID-19 transmission and that children, particularly younger children, are less likely than adults to be infected with COVID-19.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
The Massachusetts DESE recommends that districts and schools select high quality, and subject areas.
Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Special Education Related Services, and Models of Learning
5) How can schools and districts notify and document the implementation of a student’s IEP if the delivery of services is different than described in the student’s IEP(i.e.,in circumstances where the school or district is providing services through an in-person, remote, or hybrid learning model that may look different than traditionally delivered due to COVID-19)?
Teachers or IEP liaisons should contact students’ parents/guardians as soon as possible to discuss how a given student’s IEP service will be delivered if different than described in the student’s IEP, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Using input from that discussion, teachers or liaisons must provide parents/guardians with written documentation containing specific information about how IEP services will be delivered promptly at the start of the 2020-2021 school year. Examples of written documentation include the use of an N1,DESE’s sample “COVID-19 Special Education Learning Plan”, letter,or other means of written communication. Translations of this resource will be made available to schools and districts on DESE’s website.
This documentation should include how and where specialized services are being provided. If the remote model or remote portion of the hybrid model are being employed, this documentation should also include when the specialized services are being provided in remote. This documentation should be dated to reflect when services began. If plans change, revision dates should be added to the plan. This written documentation does not constitute an IEP amendment, and students retain stay-put rights through their IEP. Though parental consent is not required to implement the modified in-person, hybrid, or remote special education services plan, it is recommended for schools and districts to keep families informed of any changes in service delivery. Schools and districts can deliver written notification to families in multiple ways, e.g., U.S. mail, email, student information systems, or online communication platforms. Each communication should be in the primary language of the home, using interpreters and translating documents, when appropriate.
6) What types of services can be provided remotely?
The U.S. Department of Education (USED) has stated that the IDEA does not mandate specific methodologies. Where technology itself imposes a barrier to access or where educational materials simply are not available in an accessible format, educators may still meet their legal obligations by providing children with IEPs equally effective alternate access to the curriculum or services provided to other students. For example, if a teacher who has a blind student in her class is working from home and cannot distribute a document accessible to that student, she can distribute to the rest of the class an inaccessible document and, if appropriate for the student, read the document over the phone to the blind student or provide the blind student with an audio recording of a reading of the document aloud. The Department encourages parents/guardians, educators, and administrators to collaborate creatively to continue to meet the needs of students with IEPs. Consider practices such as distance instruction, tele-therapy and tele-intervention, meetings held on digital platforms, online options for data tracking, and documentation.
7) How can related services be provided during the suspension of in-person education?
Related services can be provided remotely to students in accordance with the guidelines of their respective professional boards. Schools and districts should document the provision of related services in their written notification to parents.This communication should be in the primary language of the home, using interpreters and translating documents, when appropriate.
8) If a school or district chooses a hybrid or remote model, how does this impact special education students who receive services in community-based settings and students who participate in inclusive concurrent enrollment programs at institutions of higher education?
Although in-person participation in community-based programs and inclusive concurrent enrollment programs at institutions of higher education may be limited at this time, schools and districts should make best efforts to develop plans collaboratively with community-based providers, colleges, parents/guardians, and students in order to allow students access to as much programming as possible during COVID-19. Current health and safety requirements must remain a priority when making decisions about the extent to which transition services may be provided in the community. However, it is highly recommended that in-person transition services resume as soon as it is safe to do so with the proper health and safety measures in place.
NOTE: According to Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education areas of the school visited by the COVID-19 positive individual must be closed off and/or cleaned and disinfected. The area can be used 12 hours after cleaning/disinfecting has occurred.
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Our Schools, DESE FAQ Special Education Qs 1-4
The way in which our children learn and our educators teach to begin this school year will be will challenging for both to say the least. Regardless of the reopening model chosen by your school district, all schools will be providing remote learning to some extent. Parents whose children require special education in the COVID-19 environment may be struggling with how these necessary changes may impact the ability of school districts to meet their children's needs. The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education has put together a FAQ to help parents navigate these uncharted waters.
The current state of the COVID-19 pandemic is continually evolving. What is true today may not be tomorrow. At this time, the evidence suggests schools have not played a significant role in COVID-19 transmission and that children, particularly younger children, are less likely than adults to be infected with COVID-19.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
The Massachusetts DESE recommends that districts and schools select high quality, and subject areas.
Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Special Education Related Services, and Models of Learning
1: How will schools and districts provide special education and related services to students with IEPs as schools reopen during this period of public health crisis from COVID-19?
As schools reopen, schools and districts must continue to provide a free and appropriate public education (FAPE) to students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) consistent with the need to protect the health and safety of students and staff. Students with IEPs must receive all services documented in their IEPs even if services are being delivered in a different service model (i.e.,modified in-person, hybrid or remote). The Department has recommended that certain categories of students be prioritized for in-person instruction even if schools and districts are operating in a hybrid or remote model. Specifically, preschool-age students with IEPs and students with disabilities who have been prioritized for in-person instruction should receive in-person instruction to the greatest extent feasible.
2: How will schools and districts provide special education and related services to students with IEPs during periods when a school or district is providing instruction a hybrid or remote model because of COVID-19?
Even if schools or districts are operating in a hybrid or remote model, educators and administrators must make every effort to continue to provide up to full-time in person instruction for students with disabilities, particularly preschool-aged students and those with who have been prioritized for in-person instruction.If in-person instruction cannot be provided, students must receive special education instruction and related services necessary to provide FAPE through an Instruction and Services model of delivery (e.g., structured lessons, tele-therapy, video-based lessons, etc.).
For school year 2020-2021, remote special education services must include the following components:
A regular and consistent schedule of classes, interventions, services, and therapies as required by the student’s IEP, offered synchronously and/or asynchronously;
Structured learning time designed so that the student can access state standards; and
Frequent interactions with teachers and other staff members to ensure participation and engagement.
The consistent schedule of classes, interventions, services, and therapies must include time interacting directly with teachers and related service providers on a regular basis, as well as some independent work time, as appropriate, and opportunities for interacting with classmates. Synchronous remote lessons or tele-therapy sessions can be provided via telephone or video conferencing. Students might also benefit from asynchronous pre-recorded videos of lessons to follow at home. For students receiving the majority of their daily instruction through special education, teachers and therapists should assign supplemental work (beyond lessons taught synchronously or asynchronously) during the school day that can be accomplished independently with guidance from and accountability to the teacher or therapist.For more detailed information, please see the Comprehensive Guidance on Fall 2020 Special Education Services. For guidance and for specific resources on educating students with IEPs, please see Additional Resources for Supporting Students with Disabilities for All Educators and Providers.
3: How often should schools and districts communicate with parents/guardians during the 2020-2021 school year?
The Department strongly recommends that schools and districts cultivate excellent two-way communication with families. Schools and districts should ensure that appropriate staff(e.g., classroom teacher, special education teacher, or other service provider) communicate regularly with parents/guardians.The frequency and type of communication will vary depending on the child’s individual needs, the availability of the Team member, and the mode of communication.
The Department recommends that school and district personnel document their communication with families.Communication can include direct conversations, office hours, emails, texts, and webinars for parents/guardians.The communication should be in the primary language of the home, using interpreters and translating documents, when appropriate.
4: How can schools and districts complete the special education initial eligibility process if they cannot complete a face-to-face assessment?
Schools and districts are encouraged to consider any and all evaluation information that is already available, and conduct additional assessments that are needed, as appropriate, for the child under consideration for special education eligibility.
Schools and districts should make a decision regarding the feasibility of completing the eligibility determination process on an individual basis. Professionals should use their best judgment in determining whether the existing data review provides sufficient information for some aspects of a student’s evaluation and, if not sufficient, developing a plan for completing all special education assessments in-person or remotely.
Based on professional judgment, it may be determined that a special education assessment or parts of an assessment may be conducted remotely. Factors involved in professional judgment and supporting a determination as to whether a special education assessment can be conducted remotely include:
Referring to guidance of the relevant professional organization(s) of the particular evaluator conducting the assessment at the state or national level.
Consulting the assessment’s publisher regarding technical/interpretive guidelines for remote administration.
Relying on evaluators as to whether an entire assessment or parts of an assessment may be conducted remotely.
Taking into consideration current knowledge and circumstances of the student and making individualized decisions.
Consulting with the special education administrator.
Considering the use of alternative assessment tools to assess all areas of suspected disability.
Continuing to monitor for developments in the manner assessments can be conducted remotely and, as developments emerge, revisit earlier decisions not to assess, as appropriate.
NOTE: According to Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education areas of the school visited by the COVID-19 positive individual must be closed off and/or cleaned and disinfected. The area can be used 12 hours after cleaning/disinfecting has occurred.
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Our Schools, DESE Remote Learning Guidance
By now most parents of the Commonwealth know which of the three possible education models their school districts have chosen to begin the 2020-2021 academic year. The possibilities are:
In-person - learning with new and enhanced safety requirements
Hybrid - some combination of In-person (with new and enhanced safety requirements) and remote learning
Remote - 100% remote learning environment
The way in which our children learn and our educators teach to begin this school year will be will challenging for both to say the least. Regardless of the reopening model chosen by your school district, all schools will be providing remote learning to some extent. To ensure that our children's learning experience is not diminished by these significant changes to their leaning structure the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education has offered the following guidance to be used when developing the curriculum for hybrid and remote learning models.
NOTE:COVID-19 is highly transmissible. Individuals should follow these universal precautions regardless of the extent of mitigation needed:
The current state of the COVID-19 pandemic is continually evolving. What is true today may not be tomorrow. At this time, the evidence suggests schools have not played a significant role in COVID-19 transmission and that children, particularly younger children, are less likely than adults to be infected with COVID-19.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
The Massachusetts DESE recommends that districts and schools select high quality, comprehensive curriculum and instructional materials when developing the curriculum for remote based learning. There are many resources available that provide supplemental virtual content that educators can incorporate in a way that builds upon their current curriculum, enhances student engagement, voice, and choice, and that meets specific needs for delivering instruction remotely. Below is a list of vetted virtual content resources for various grade spans and subject areas.
Young children learn through exploration and play, such as building with blocks, exploring nature, pretend play, and games. Schools should support students in grades K-2 to learn through play at home and can provide resources such as:
NOTE: According to Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education areas of the school visited by the COVID-19 positive individual must be closed off and/or cleaned and disinfected. The area can be used 12 hours after cleaning/disinfecting has occurred.
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Our Schools, DESE Available Resources, Materials and Considerations For High Schools
By now most parents of the Commonwealth know which of the three possible education models their school districts have chosen to begin the 2020-2021 academic year. The possibilities are:
In-person - learning with new and enhanced safety requirements
Hybrid - some combination of In-person (with new and enhanced safety requirements) and remote learning
Remote - 100% remote learning environment
The way in which our children learn and our educators teach to begin this school year will be will challenging for both to say the least. Regardless of the reopening model chosen by your school district, all schools will be providing remote learning to some extent. To ensure that our children's learning experience is not diminished by these significant changes to their leaning structure the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education has offered the following resources, materials as well as guidance to consider when developing curriculum for high school students.
NOTE:COVID-19 is highly transmissible. Individuals should follow these universal precautions regardless of the extent of mitigation needed:
The current state of the COVID-19 pandemic is continually evolving. What is true today may not be tomorrow. At this time, the evidence suggests schools have not played a significant role in COVID-19 transmission and that children, particularly younger children, are less likely than adults to be infected with COVID-19.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
Providing students and teachers with access to stronger curricular materials can be a powerful way to narrow opportunity gaps and accelerate student learning at scale. During these difficult times school and district leaders lack the time and information necessary to make well-informed decisions about curriculum.
The CURATE project is DESE's response to this opportunity and need. The project's goal is to make it easier for schools and districts to lay a foundation of great curricular materials in every classroom, so that teachers can focus on making those materials work for the students they know best.
View quick reference guides on critical components of curriculum:
View the rubrics CURATE panels use to evaluate curricular materials (English Language Arts and Literacy; Mathematics; Science and Technology/Engineering)
It is paramount to ensure that every student in Massachusetts has access to a safe and supportive school environment that cultivates academic curiosity and confidence. Students have equitable access to an excellent education. Students read meaningful texts across content areas, work on complex real-world problems, participate in the arts, and share their ideas through speaking and writing using evidence, all in an effort to understand the world, their personal identities and their roles in the world.
Instruction is most powerful when educators have strong content knowledge and access to high-quality instructional materials and professional learning that promote inclusive practice accessible to all students, including English learners and students with disabilities; support authentic, engaging, and interdisciplinary student learning experiences; and invest families and students in their learning.
To support standards-based learning, we believe that every student should engage:
with grade-appropriate text every day
with meaningful real-world problems every day
in scientific conversations using data every week
DESE’s is offering a 5-Part online module series though its Center for Instructional Support. This seriesreviews key instructional practices and provides tips and strategies for remote teaching aligned to the Standards and Indicators of Effective Practice and the MA Curriculum Frameworks for ELA/Literacy, Math, History/Social Science, and Science.
To inquire about registering for this series contact:
The Council of Chief State School Officers (CCSSO) is sharing recommendations for high-quality materials that support all district contexts and include free resources (open education resources). CCSSO runs the High-Quality Instructional Materials and Professional Development (IMPD) Network that currently supports eight states (Delaware, Massachusetts, Mississippi, Nebraska, New Mexico, Rhode Island, Tennessee and Wisconsin) to significantly increase the number of districts selecting high-quality, standards aligned instructional materials and to increase the number of pre-service and in-service teachers receiving professional development grounded in the use of those materials. To view their recommendations click here.
Special Considerations for Grades 9-12
High school schedules differ from those of younger students in that coursework completion and grading “fuels” a high school transcript that is used to provide information and give access to opportunity for post-secondary life in college and career. Also, in high school, courses are typically taken just once, and that content will not be repeated in their educational career. Thus, it is critical that high school students receive schedules based on their individual credit and course content needs.
Students should enroll in courses according to the school’s normal requirements and processes, with the goal of mastering grade-level skills and building college and career readiness. School officials, in counsel with the student and reflecting on that student’s skills and priorities, should design a full and appropriate schedule for each individual student. Then the student should receive remote instruction and coursework for each of those courses commensurate with what they would have received in person. While high school schedules are much more varied than schedules at other educational levels, schools should assure that students are accessing the skills and knowledge detailed in the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks for their grade level. In cases where schools have limited teaching staff to support remote courses (such as for particular courses), districts may consider purchasing individual courses with certified educators provided, such as through a partnership with Commonwealth Virtual Schools. Click hereto visit the website.
Schools and districts should also consider student agency throughout the scheduling process. High school students should have an opportunity to plan for their academic, personal/social, and career success through an individual planning process such as My Career and Academic Plan. This may include scheduled time with school counselors and other engaged educators to meet the needs of college and career planning in both a group and individual setting.
NOTE: According to Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education areas of the school visited by the COVID-19 positive individual must be closed off and/or cleaned and disinfected. The area can be used 12 hours after cleaning/disinfecting has occurred.
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Our Schools, DESE 3 Critical Areas For Successful Remote Learning
By now most parents of the Commonwealth know which of the three possible education models their school districts have chosen to begin the 2020-2021 academic year. The possibilities are:
In-person - learning with new and enhanced safety requirements
Hybrid - some combination of In-person (with new and enhanced safety requirements) and remote learning
Remote - 100% remote learning environment
The way in which our children learn and our educators teach to begin this school year will be will challenging for both to say the least. Regardless of the reopening model chosen by your school district, all schools will be providing remote learning to some extent. To ensure that our children's learning experience is not diminished by these significant changes to their leaning structure the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education has identified three (3) critical areas to focus on when developing the upcoming educational curriculum.
High-quality Curriculum And Instructional Materials
Organizing Student Schedules For Structured Learning Time
Organizing Educator Time To Maximize Time With Students
NOTE:COVID-19 is highly transmissible. Individuals should follow these universal precautions regardless of the extent of mitigation needed:
The current state of the COVID-19 pandemic is continually evolving. What is true today may not be tomorrow. At this time, the evidence suggests schools have not played a significant role in COVID-19 transmission and that children, particularly younger children, are less likely than adults to be infected with COVID-19.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
High-quality Curriculum And Instructional Materials
According to the DESE, more than ever, strong curricular materials are critical during this uncertain time. Studies have shown that districts that have coherent, high-quality curriculum have been able to pivot more easily and have seen more coherence among teachers during the pandemic. They help teachers align their expectations to state standards designed to keep students on track for success while providing guidance on how to tailor instruction to individual students’ needs. They are engaging, challenging, and culturally-relevant. Additionally, compared to other popular interventions, simply upgrading learning materials is a more cost-effective option.
The Department has compiled a number of resources to support districts in selecting and using high-quality curriculum and instructional materials and in supporting teachers to bring them to life, especially in hybrid or remote learning environments. Visit the DESE website to view these recommendations.
Organizing Student Schedules For Structured Learning Time
All students, including those learning remotely, must receive at least the minimum amount of required instruction for the 2020-2021 school year:
850 hours for elementary schools, or 5 hours per day over 170 days
935 hours for secondary schools, or 5.5 hours per day over 170 days
Throughout the school day and week, students learning remotely should experience a combination of instructional activities, such as:
live, synchronous instruction
small group or individual academic support
asynchronous, independent work time
Students should also have access to teachers or staff members at a regularly scheduled time to monitor ongoing progress and needs. With family input, schools should create and adhere to a consistent schedule of synchronous and asynchronous learning time for each child.
During asynchronous periods, schools should provide clear expectations for what students should be working on, what they need to submit, and when any assignments are due. Schools should take into consideration student and family schedules and allow for flexibility for students to complete asynchronously assigned tasks based on family schedules (such as in the evenings, on the following day, or at the end of a week). Students and families should clearly understand how attendance will be taken, how they will receive feedback on work completed asynchronously, and how they will be evaluated (such as grades).
Whether they are engaging in synchronous or asynchronous work, students learning remotely should have access to rigorous, relevant content; spend time in a range of content areas, including specials and enrichment; and have opportunities to exercise their voice and choice in activities.
Organizing Educator Time To Maximize Time With Students
For districts and schools operating an in-person or hybrid learning model, educators and staff members may be stretched across multiple learning environments, limiting their ability to directly engage with all students at all times. In these cases, it may be necessary for a district or school to supplement live teacher instruction and support with asynchronous, student-directed content. In these scenarios, it is recommended that:
Students have opportunities to connect with adults from school as often as possible but at least once a day, for both relationship-building and academic support.
Schools provide as much synchronous instruction and/or direct support as possible.
Teachers provide regular, targeted, individualized or small-group instruction to students who are not meeting grade-level standards or who need additional support.
Districts and schools that are operating fully remotely are not limited by the same staffing constraints that in-person and hybrid models may experience.In this model, it is recommended that:
Educators provide direct services to students for a comparable amount of time as they would typically provide in person, with students receiving direct instruction, support, or having access to a teacher for the majority of the scheduled school day.
Schools and districts maximize the use of all educators to support students, including teaching or co-teaching a class, working with students individually or in small groups, facilitating independent work time, hosting advisory or office hours, providing feedback on student work, meeting with students and families, etc.
Educators incorporate a variety of instructional activities, including those that allow students to move away from or turn off their screens and those that include physical movement, reading, writing, and working with physical materials.
NOTE: According to Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education areas of the school visited by the COVID-19 positive individual must be closed off and/or cleaned and disinfected. The area can be used 12 hours after cleaning/disinfecting has occurred.
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Our Schools, DESE Protocol, A Staff Member Is Symptomatic
The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) has worked closely with Governor Baker's administration, public health officials, and community leaders to develop guidelines to follow should a specific COVID-19 scenario arise in a school district. As parents face the difficult decision about if and how their child will return to school this fall we believe it is critical for parents to understand the totality of any potential risks that exists and know in advance what the contingency plans are. The Massachusetts DESE has issued guidance for schools, districts, and individualized education program teams that identifies potential scenarios along with case specific protocols for responding to each specific COVID-19 scenarios.
NOTE:COVID-19 is highly transmissible. Individuals should follow these universal precautions regardless of the extent of mitigation needed:
The current state of the COVID-19 pandemic is continually evolving. What is true today may not be tomorrow. At this time, the evidence suggests schools have not played a significant role in COVID-19 transmission and that children, particularly younger children, are less likely than adults to be infected with COVID-19.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
Staff members should monitor themselves at home each morning for the most common symptoms of COVID-19 (see list, CDC Covid-19 symptom checker). According to the Massachusetts DESE the following protocols should be inplace and executed upon should a staff member determine that they are symptomatic at home.
If the staff member determines that they DO NOT have any symptoms:
They are cleared to go into work.
If the staff member determines that they DO HAVE symptoms:
They should not go to work.
They must contact the COVID-19 POC and/or other absence reporting mechanism established by the school.
Current Massachusetts DPH guidance is that all symptomatic individuals in Massachusetts, even those with mild symptoms, should be tested. An individual who does not wish to be tested may return to school ten (10) days from start of symptoms, as long as their symptoms have improved and they have been without fever for at least 24 hours prior to their return to school without the use of fever reducing medication.
The staff member should get tested at one of Massachusetts’s test sites. Sites may require pre-screening, a referral, and/or an appointment.
Isolate at home until test results are returned.
Proceed as follows according to test results:
If test results are NEGATIVE:
Staff member may return to school after they have tested negative for COVID-19, have improvement in symptoms, and have been without fever for at least 24 hours without the use of fever reducing medications. If a provider makes an alternative diagnosis for the COVID-19-like symptoms, the individual may return to school based on the recommendations for that alternative diagnosis (e.g., influenza or strep pharyngitis).
If test results are POSITIVE:
Staff member should remain at home (except to get medical care), monitor their symptoms, notify the school, notify personal close contacts, assist the school in contact tracing efforts, and answer the call from local board of health or Massachusetts Community Tracing Collaborative. Most people who have relatively mild illness will need to stay in self-isolation for at least ten (10) days and until at least three (3) days have passed with no fever and improvement in other symptoms. FOLLOW STEPS UNDER: “Protocol: Student or staff tests positive for COVID-19.”
Protocol: Staff Member Is Symptomatic At School
Staff members should monitor themselves at home each morning for the most common symptoms of COVID-19 (see list, CDC Covid-19 symptom checker). As noted above, staff should be encouraged not to come to school if they are experiencing any symptoms of COVID-19.
According to the Massachusetts DESE the following protocols should be inplace and executed upon should a staff member determine that they are symptomatic at home.
If a staff member suspects any symptoms during the day, they should follow the school’s protocols for getting another adult to cover their class mid-day, if needed, and see the school nurse (or school medical point of contact) to be evaluated for symptoms.
Upon evaluation if the staff member displays NO SIGNS of symptoms:
The staff member should follow the school’s standard protocols for being excused due to illness.
Upon evaluation if the staff member displays ANY SIGNS of symptoms:
Current Massachusetts DPH guidance is that all symptomatic individuals in Massachusetts, even those with mild symptoms, should be tested. An individual who does not wish to be tested may return to school ten (10) days from start of symptoms, as long as their symptoms have improved and they have been without fever for at least 24 hours prior to their return to school without the use of fever reducing medication.
The staff member should get tested at one of Massachusetts’s test sites. Sites may require pre-screening, a referral, and/or appointment.
Isolate at home until test results are returned.
Proceed as follows according to test results:
If the test results are NEGATIVE:
Staff member may return to school after they have tested negative for COVID-19, have improvement in symptoms, and have been without fever for at least 24 hours without the use of fever reducing medications. If a provider makes an alternative diagnosis for the COVID-19-like symptoms, the individual may return to school based on the recommendations for that alternative diagnosis (e.g., influenza or strep pharyngitis).
If the test results are POSITIVE:
Staff member should remain at home (except to get medical care), monitor their symptoms, notify the school, notify personal close contacts, assist the school in contact tracing efforts, and answer the call from local board of health or Massachusetts Community Tracing Collaborative. Most people who have relatively mild illness will need to stay in self-isolation for at least 10 days and until at least 3 days have passed with no fever and improvement in other symptoms. FOLLOW STEPS UNDER: “Protocol: Student or staff tests positive for COVID-19.”
NOTE: According to Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education areas of the school visited by the COVID-19 positive individual must be closed off and/or cleaned and disinfected. The area can be used 12 hours after cleaning/disinfecting has occurred.
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Our Schools, DESE Protocol, A Student Is Symptomatic At School
The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) has worked closely with Governor Baker's administration, public health officials, and community leaders to develop guidelines to follow should a specific COVID-19 scenario arise in a school district. As parents face the difficult decision about if and how their child will return to school this fall we believe it is critical for parents to understand the totality of any potential risks that exists and know in advance what the contingency plans are. The Massachusetts DESE has issued guidance for schools, districts, and individualized education program teams that identifies potential scenarios along with case specific protocols for responding to each specific COVID-19 scenarios.
NOTE:COVID-19 is highly transmissible. Individuals should follow these universal precautions regardless of the extent of mitigation needed:
The current state of the COVID-19 pandemic is continually evolving. What is true today may not be tomorrow. At this time, the evidence suggests schools have not played a significant role in COVID-19 transmission and that children, particularly younger children, are less likely than adults to be infected with COVID-19.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
According to the Massachusetts DESE the following protocols should be inplace and executed upon should a student become symptomatic while at school.
Although families are the most important first line of defense for monitoring symptoms, teachers will play an important role in referring possible symptomatic students to the school nurse or other medical point of contact. (Note: This will require training for teachers.)
Teacher must ensure the student is wearing a mask that fully covers nose and mouth at all times.
Teacher calls the nurse or school medical point of contact to inform them that they have a possible case. Nurse or school medical point of contact comes to get the student from class.
Nurse (or school medical point of contact) should evaluate the student for symptoms (see list, CDC Covid-19 symptom checker).
If ANY Covid-19 symptoms exist:
Place the student in the designated medical waiting room. This space must be supervised. If feasible, schools are encouraged to provide individual students with their own waiting room. If more than one student is in the same waiting room at a time, each student must be at least 6 feet apart (and should be spaced as far apart as possible) and wearing a surgical mask (non-N95 and non-cloth) while in the medical waiting room. If a student does not already have a surgical mask, the school should provide one. Schools must also be equipped with the PPE for the staff involved with supervision of the waiting room. Strict mask wearing covering the nose and mouth at all times for every person in the room must be enforced. Students can work on individual schoolwork or other activities while in the medical waiting room.
Contact caregiver for pick-up.
Caregiver can pick up the student during the day
Student waits to be picked up in the medical waiting room. Caregivers must wear a mask/face covering when picking up their student. Students should not ride the school bus to get home. Caregivers and students should wash their hands upon arriving at home and change their clothes as a precaution.
Caregiver cannot pick up the student during the day:
The student should wait in the medical waiting room until the end of the day to be picked up by caregiver. The student should not go home on a school bus with other students.
Current Massachusetts DPH guidance is that all symptomatic individuals in Massachusetts, even those with mild symptoms, should be tested. An individual who does not wish to be tested may return to school ten (10) days from start of symptoms, as long as their symptoms have improved and they have been without fever for at least 24 hours prior to their return to school without the use of fever reducing medication.
Student should get tested at one of Massachusetts’s test sites. Sites may require pre-screening, a referral, and/or appointment.
Isolate at home until test results are returned.
Proceed as follows according to test results:
IF NEGATIVE: Students may return to school after they have tested negative for COVID-19, have improvement in symptoms, and have been without fever for at least 24 hours without the use of fever reducing medications. If a provider makes an alternative diagnosis for the COVID-19-like symptoms, the individual may return to school based on the recommendations for that alternative diagnosis (e.g., influenza or strep pharyngitis).
IF POSITIVE: Student must remain at home (except to get medical care), monitor their symptoms, notify the school, notify personal close contacts, assist the school in contact tracing efforts, and answer the call from local board of health or Massachusetts Community Tracing Collaborative. Most people who have relatively mild illness will need to stay in self-isolation for at least ten (10) days and until at least three (3) days have passed with no fever and improvement in other symptoms. FOLLOW STEPS UNDER: “Protocol: Student or staff tests positive for COVID-19.”
If NO Covid-19 symptoms exist:
If the evaluation shows the student does not have any symptoms, send the student back to class.
NOTE: According to Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education areas of the school visited by the COVID-19 positive individual must be closed off and/or cleaned and disinfected. The area can be used 12 hours after cleaning/disinfecting has occurred.
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Our Schools, DESE Protocol, A Student Is Symptomatic On The Bus
The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) has worked closely with Governor Baker's administration, public health officials, and community leaders to develop guidelines to follow should a specific COVID-19 scenario arise in a school district. As parents face the difficult decision about if and how their child will return to school this fall we believe it is critical for parents to understand the totality of any potential risks that exists and know in advance what the contingency plans are. The Massachusetts DESE has issued guidance for schools, districts, and individualized education program teams that identifies potential scenarios along with case specific protocols for responding to each specific COVID-19 scenarios.
NOTE:COVID-19 is highly transmissible. Individuals should follow these universal precautions regardless of the extent of mitigation needed:
The current state of the COVID-19 pandemic is continually evolving. What is true today may not be tomorrow. At this time, the evidence suggests schools have not played a significant role in COVID-19 transmission and that children, particularly younger children, are less likely than adults to be infected with COVID-19.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
According to the Massachusetts DESE the following protocols should be inplace and executed upon should a student become symptomatic while on the bus.
Although families are the most important first line of defense for monitoring symptoms, bus drivers and bus monitors also play an important role in flagging possible symptomatic students. Note: This will require training for bus drivers (and bus monitors, if applicable).
If symptoms are noticed as the student is getting on the bus and if there is a caregiver present, do not allow student to board the bus. The caregiver should then Follow: “Protocol: Student is symptomatic at home.”
If student is already on the bus, ensure student is masked and the student keeps mask on covering nose and mouth at all times. If the student does not have a mask, the bus driver should be equipped to provide one.
Ensure other students keep their masks on covering their nose and mouth at all times. Ensure student keeps required physical distance from other students.
If not already open, windows should be opened as fully as possible, weather permitting.
Bus driver/monitor should call ahead to the bus service dispatch. The bus service dispatch should be equipped with appropriate cell phone numbers for school and district personnel (nurse or other medical personnel). The dispatch should contact the school to inform the school nurse (or school medical point of contact) ofa possible symptomatic child.
School nurse (or school medical point of contact) should meet the bus as it arrives, wearing a mask. As practical, student with possible symptoms should exit the bus first.
If the student displays any of the common symptoms of COVID-19 the nurse should place the student in the designated medical waiting room. This space must be supervised. If feasible schools are encouraged to provide individual students with their own waiting room. If more than one student is in the same waiting room at a time, each student must be at least 6 feet apart (and should be spaced as far apart as possible) and wearing a surgical mask (non-N95 and non-cloth) while in the medical waiting room. If a student does not already have a surgical mask, the school should provide one. Schools must also be equipped with the PPE for the staff involved with supervision of the waiting room. Strict mask wearing covering the nose and mouth at all times for every person in the room must be enforced. Students can work on individual schoolwork or other activities while in the medical waiting room.
Contact caregiver for pick-up.
If the caregiver CAN PICK UP the student during the day:
Student waits to be picked up in the medical waiting room. Caregivers must wear a mask/face covering when picking up their student. Students should not ride the school bus to get home. Caregivers and students should wash their hands upon arriving at home and change their clothes, as a precaution.
If the caregiver CAN NOT PICK UP the student during the day:
The student should wait in the medical waiting room until the end of the day to be picked up by caregiver. The student should not go home on a school bus with other students.
Current Massachusetts DPH guidance is that all symptomatic individuals in Massachusetts, even those with mild symptoms, should be tested. An individual who does not wish to be tested may return to school ten (10) days from start of symptoms, as long as their symptoms have improved and they have been without fever for at least 24 hours prior to their return to school without the use of fever reducing medications.
Student should get tested at one of Massachusetts’s test sites. Sites may require pre-screening, a referral, and/or an appointment.
Isolate at home until test results are returned.
Proceed as follows according to test results:
IF NEGATIVE:Students may return to school after they have tested negative for COVID-19, have improvement in symptoms, and have been without fever for at least 24 hours without the use of fever reducing medications. If a provider makes an alternative diagnosis for the COVID-19-like symptoms, the individual may return to school based on the recommendations for that alternative diagnosis (e.g., influenza or strep pharyngitis).
IF POSITIVE:Student should remain at home (except to get medical care), monitor their symptoms, notify the school, notify personal close contacts, assist the school in contact tracing efforts, and answer the call from local board of health or Massachusetts Community Tracing Collaborative. Most people who have relatively mild illness will need to stay in self-isolation for at least 10 days and until at least 3 days have passed with no fever and improvement in other symptoms.FOLLOW: “Protocol: Student/staff tests positive for COVID-19.”
If the student DOES NOT display any of the common symptoms of COVID-19 the nurse should:
Send the student to class
NOTE: According to Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education areas of the school visited by the COVID-19 positive individual must be closed off and/or cleaned and disinfected. The area can be used 12 hours after cleaning/disinfecting has occurred.
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Our Schools, DESE Protocol, A Student Is Symptomatic At Home
The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) has worked closely with Governor Baker's administration, public health officials, and community leaders to develop guidelines to follow should a specific COVID-19 scenario arise in a school district. As parents face the difficult decision about if and how their child will return to school this fall we believe it is critical for parents to understand the totality of any potential risks that exists and know in advance what the contingency plans are. The Massachusetts DESE has issued guidance for schools, districts, and individualized education program teams that identifies potential scenarios along with case specific protocols for responding to each specific COVID-19 scenarios.
NOTE:COVID-19 is highly transmissible. Individuals should follow these universal precautions regardless of the extent of mitigation needed:
The current state of the COVID-19 pandemic is continually evolving. What is true today may not be tomorrow. At this time, the evidence suggests schools have not played a significant role in COVID-19 transmission and that children, particularly younger children, are less likely than adults to be infected with COVID-19.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
According to the Massachusetts DESE the following protocols should be inplace and executed upon should a student become symptomatic at home.
Family should monitor students at home each morning for the most common symptoms of COVID-19 (see CDC's list).
If no the student shows no signs of symptoms
Send student to school.
If the student shows signs of symptoms
Do not send the student to school.
Call the school’s COVID-19 point of contact and inform them student is staying home due to symptoms.
Current Massachusetts DPH guidance is that all symptomatic individuals in Massachusetts, even those with mild symptoms, should be tested. An individual who does not wish to be tested may return to school ten (10) days from start of symptoms, as long as their symptoms have improved and they have been without fever for at least 24 hours prior to their return to school without the use of fever reducing medication.
The student should get tested at one of Massachusetts’s test sites. Sites may require pre-screening, a referral, and/or an appointment.
Isolate at home until test results are returned.
Proceed as follows according to test results:
NEGATIVE: Students may return to school after they have tested negative for COVID-19, have improvement in symptoms, and have been without fever for at least 24 hours without the use of fever reducing medications. If a provider makes an alternative diagnosis for the COVID-19-like symptoms, the individual may return to school based on the recommendations for that alternative diagnosis (e.g., influenza or strep pharyngitis).
POSITIVE: Student should remain at home (except to get medical care), monitor their symptoms, notify the school, notify personal close contacts, assist the school in contact tracing efforts, and answer the call from local board of health or Massachusetts Community Tracing Collaborative. Most people who have relatively mild illness will need to stay in self-isolation for at least 10 days and until at least 3 days have passed with no fever and improvement in other symptoms.
NOTE: According to Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education areas of the school visited by the COVID-19 positive individual must be closed off and/or cleaned and disinfected. The area can be used 12 hours after cleaning/disinfecting has occurred.
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Our Schools, DESE Protocol, Multiple Cases In School District
The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) has worked closely with Governor Baker's administration, public health officials, and community leaders to develop guidelines to follow should a specific COVID-19 scenario arise in a school district. As parents face the difficult decision about if and how their child will return to school this fall we believe it is critical for parents to understand the totality of any potential risks that exists and know in advance what the contingency plans are. The Massachusetts DESE has issued guidance for schools, districts, and individualized education program teams that identifies potential scenarios along with case specific protocols for responding to each specific COVID-19 scenarios.
NOTE:COVID-19 is highly transmissible. Individuals should follow these universal precautions regardless of the extent of mitigation needed:
The current state of the COVID-19 pandemic is continually evolving. What is true today may not be tomorrow. At this time, the evidence suggests schools have not played a significant role in COVID-19 transmission and that children, particularly younger children, are less likely than adults to be infected with COVID-19.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
Protocol: Presence OF Multiple Cases In The School or School District
According to the Massachusetts DESE the following protocols should be inplace and executed upon should multiple cases of COVID-19 arise within a school system or school district.
If there is more than one confirmed COVID-19 case (students or staff) in the school at one time, or if there is a series of single cases in a short time span, school leaders and the superintendent should work with the local board of health to determine if it is likely that there is transmission happening in school.
For each individual case, FOLLOW STEPS UNDER: “Protocol: Student or staff tests positive for COVID-19.” (see our previous blog) Note that when there is one isolated case, the student’s close contacts will need to stay home and be tested, not the whole school.
When there is suspected in-school transmission beyond one cohort or a small number of cohorts, school and district leaders must consult with the local board of health as to proposed next steps. These steps should include a review of the specific COVID-19 public health metrics for the municipality and could lead to, for example:
making a decision to close part of the school or the entire school for a short time (e.g. 1-3 days) for an extensive cleaning or other facility mitigation,or
OR - making a decision to close the school partially or fully for the longer duration of a 14-day quarantine period.
Should there be circumstances where there are multiple cases in multiple schools, school and district leaders must consult with the local board of health as to proposed next steps. These steps should include a review of the specific COVID-19 public health metrics for the municipality and could lead to:
making a decision to a shut down the district for a short time (e.g. 1-3 days) for an extensive cleaning or other facility mitigation
OR making a decision to shut down the district for the longer duration of a 14-day quarantine period.
Before a final decision is made on a school or district closure, the superintendent must consult with DESE for further guidance.
Anne Marie Stronach, Senior Advisor to the Commissioner – Rapid Response, Anne.marie.stronach@mass.gov, 781-873-9514.
If the decision is made to close for some number of days, the school and/or district should send clear information and instructions to families and staff:
Informing them that it is possible COVID-19 is being transmitted in the school and/or district
Noting that there may be more potential cases that are not yet symptomatic
Recommending students quarantine and not have contact with others
Reminding families of the importance of not having contact with higher-risk individuals (e.g., grandparents)
Reminding families of the list of COVID-19 symptoms for which to monitor
Ensuring that remote learning is immediately provided to all students
Before bringing students back to school:
Check inventory levels of needed supplies (e.g., disposable masks, soap, hand sanitizer, cleaning products); re-order replacement inventory
Consider a school-wide refresher training on the importance of correct hygiene procedures (masks, physical distance, handwashing)
Reiterate the critical nature of masks, physical distancing, and hand hygiene when students return to school
Protocol: Presence Of Significant Number Of New Cases In A Municipality
According to the Massachusetts DESE the following protocols should be inplace and executed upon should a significant rise in the number of new cases of COVID-19 occur within municipality.
In the case of significant municipal outbreak, as determined by the local board of health or DPH, the superintendent and school leaders must consult with the local board of health to determine whether it is appropriate to close a specific school, schools, or an entire district.
Again, before a final decision is made on a school or district closure, the superintendent must consult with DESE for further guidance.
Anne Marie Stronach, Senior Advisor to the Commissioner – Rapid Response, Anne.marie.stronach@mass.gov, 781-873-9514.
Protocol: State-wide Changes To Reopening Phases
According to the Massachusetts DESE the following protocols should be inplace and executed upon should any change in the Commonwealth's Reopening Phase plan occur.
Governor Baker has announced that the Commonwealth will remain in Phase 3 of Reopening Massachusetts in significant part to help support an overall environment for the safe return to our schools for as many students, staff and teachers as possible.
If Massachusetts moves back into a prior phase, or further changes are made in Phase 3, DESE (in consultation with the Massachusetts COVID-19 Command Center) will communicate with school districts and schools to determine whether in-person school should continue. As the transmission of the virus can vary due to local circumstances and actions, these potential recommendations may be by locality, region or statewide.
NOTE: According to Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education areas of the school visited by the COVID-19 positive individual must be closed off and/or cleaned and disinfected. The area can be used 12 hours after cleaning/disinfecting has occurred.
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Our Schools, DESE Protocol, Positive Test Result
The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) has worked closely with Governor Baker's administration, public health officials, and community leaders to develop guidelines to follow should a specific COVID-19 scenario arise in a school district. As parents face the difficult decision about if and how their child will return to school this fall we believe it is critical for parents to understand the totality of any potential risks that exists and know in advance what the contingency plans are. The Massachusetts DESE has issued guidance for schools, districts, and individualized education program teams that identifies potential scenarios along with case specific protocols for responding to each specific COVID-19 scenarios.
NOTE:COVID-19 is highly transmissible. Individuals should follow these universal precautions regardless of the extent of mitigation needed:
The current state of the COVID-19 pandemic is continually evolving. What is true today may not be tomorrow. At this time, the evidence suggests schools have not played a significant role in COVID-19 transmission and that children, particularly younger children, are less likely than adults to be infected with COVID-19.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
Protocol: Student or Staff Tests positive for COVID-19
According to the Massachusetts DESE the following protocols should be inplace and executed upon should a student or staff member test positive for COVID-19.
The student or staff member must remain at home (except to get medical care), monitor their symptoms, notify the school, notify personal close contacts, assist the school in contact tracing efforts, and answer the call from local board of health or Massachusetts Community Tracing Collaborative. For most people who have relatively mild illness, they will need to stay in self-isolation for at least 10 days and until at least 3 days have passed with no fever and improvement in other symptoms.
The student’s parent/caregiver or the staff member informs the proper school official (e.g. the COVID-19 school leader) that the individual has tested positive for COVID-19.
The designated COVID-19 school leader should notify others as pre-determined by the school (e.g., school leadership, school nurse or school medical point of contact, building management, maintenance).
Determine whether the student or staff member was on the premises during the time frame that started two days prior to symptom onset (or testing positive if not symptomatic) until the time of isolation.
If so, promptly close off areas visited by the COVID-19 positive individual until such areas can be cleaned and disinfected, if they have not been cleaned and disinfected already.
Promptly clean and disinfect the student’s or staff member’s classroom and any other facilities (e.g., extracurricular facilities) visited by the individual, if that has not been done already.
Promptly clean and disinfect the bus(es) the student or staff member was on, if any, and if not already done.
Communicate with families and staff of close contacts:
The school should identify the student’s or staff member’s possible “close contacts” based on the assigned seating charts and proximity related to class activities. Close contacts are defined as only those who have been within 6 feet of distance of the individual for at least fifteen minutes, while the person was infectious. This definition is for students, teachers and other staff. The infectious period begins two days before symptom onset (or two days prior to the date of the positive test if asymptomatic) and includes up until the time the student/staff/teacher was isolated. Consider students and staff members who were close contacts in class, other school spaces, on the school bus, or at extracurricular activities.
Send a communication to the staff/teachers and families of students of close contacts that there has been a positive test without naming the individual student or staff member who tested positive.
Communications sent to families/staff should:
Inform them there was a positive test (without identifying the specific individual who tested positive) in the student’s class/bus or other activity.
Explain that since the student/staff were within 6 feet of the person with a positive test for 15 minutes or more, they are considered a “close contact” and therefore should be tested. Having assigned seating and keeping up-to-date seating charts will help identify who should be instructed to be tested: specifically, those who were sitting next to the student, plus any others who also had close contact with the student.)
Instruct close contacts to isolate prior to their test and while waiting for the results. In general, as the highest yield test will be a few days after the exposure, ideally, the test should occur no sooner than day 4 or 5 after the last exposure. (In other words, if an exposure lasted several days, the best time to test is 4 or 5 days after the end of the exposure period.)
Close contacts should be tested for COVID-19 at one of Massachusetts’s test sites. Sites may require pre-screening, a referral, and/or an appointment.
Close contacts are asked to communicate their test results to the school. They should not return to school until they have quarantined for 14 days. This includes close contacts who receive a negative test result or who choose not to be tested.
Remind families and/or staff of the importance of not having contact with higher-risk individuals (e.g., grandparents and those with underlying medical conditions).
Remind families and/or staff of the list of COVID-19 symptoms for which to monitor.
If the school finds out about the original COVID-19 positive test in the middle of a school day:
The school should quickly identify the individuals who may be “close contacts” of the student and notify students and their families.
Make sure the students who could be considered close contacts are wearing masks, including students in pre-kindergarten through first grade. Extra masks as may be needed should be provided by the school. Enforce strict physical distancing. Require students to wash their hands.
Caregivers of close contacts may pick students up prior to the end of the day. Caregivers must wear a mask/face covering when picking up their student. Students who are close contacts and students with any symptoms should not ride the school bus to get home. Caregivers and students, as well as staff, should wash their hands upon arriving at home and change their clothes as a precaution.
Close contacts should not come back to school until they have quarantined for 14 days and are asked to communicate their test results to the school.
As feasible, to assist with contact tracing, make a list including phone number and email of any other close contacts the student or staff member had, beginning two days before the onset of symptoms (or positive test if asymptomatic)until individual was isolated.
If other in the school test positive: Perform all steps under this protocol for that person. Also follow: “Protocol: Presence of multiple cases in the school.” (next blog)
If no others in the school test positive: Close contacts are asked to communicate their test results to the school. They should not return to school until they have quarantined for 14 days. This includes close contacts who receive a negative test result or who choose not to be tested.
NOTE: areas of the school visited by the COVID-19 positive individual must be closed off and/or cleaned and disinfected. The area can be used 12 hours after cleaning/disinfecting has occurred.
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, Mass DESE, and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Our Schools, State Guidelines - Hygiene, Isolation, Testing, PPE, Communication
The current state of the COVID-19 pandemic is continually evolving. What is true today may not be tomorrow. At this time, the evidence suggests schools have not played a significant role in COVID-19 transmission and that children, particularly younger children, are less likely than adults to be infected with COVID-19.
Governor Baker's administration provided the following guidance to help communities develop their individual plans which were submitted last Friday, August 14th.
NOTE:COVID-19 is highly transmissible. Individuals should follow these universal precautions regardless of the extent of mitigation needed:
Handwashing removes pathogens from the surface of the hands. While handwashing with soap and water is the best option, alcohol-based hand sanitizer (at least 60 percent ethanol or at least 70 percent isopropanol) may be utilized when handwashing is not available. As has always been the case, handwashing should be used whenever hands are visibly soiled and after using the bathroom. The state's initial requirements and related guidance are as follows:
Students and staff are required to exercise hand hygiene (handwashing or sanitizing) upon arrival to school, before eating, before putting on and taking off masks, and before dismissal.
Handwashing: When handwashing, individuals should use soap and water to wash all surfaces of their hands for at least 20 seconds, wait for visible lather, rinse thoroughly, and dry with an individual disposable towel.
Hand sanitizing: If handwashing is not feasible, hand sanitizer with at least 60 percent ethanol or at least 70 percent isopropanol content can be used.
Hand sanitizer should be applied to all surfaces of the hands and in sufficient quantity that it takes 20 seconds of rubbing hands together for the sanitizer to dry.
Hand sanitizer should be placed at key locations (e.g., building entrances, cafeteria, classrooms).
COVID-19 Related Isolation Space
In order to minimize transmission of COVID-19, schools must ensure they have an isolated space available for students displaying COVID-19 symptoms. The state's initial requirements and related guidance are as follows:
Schools are required to designate a COVID-19 related isolation space that is separate from the nurse’s office or other space where routine medical care is provided.
A student who shows COVID-19 symptoms during the school day should be moved to the specific room pre-designated for medical-related isolation until they can be picked up by a family member.
More information about steps to safely discharge students will be provided in future guidance.
COVID-19 Testing in Schools
At this time, the administration dose not recommend in-school testing. Rather, it is recommended that students’ families discuss testing with their health care provider. As the accuracy of point-of-care testing develops, this guidance may change.
Vaccines
Districts and schools should work with parents to ensure that students are current on all standard vaccinations before they return to in-person school. In addition, health providers strongly recommend all students and staff get their regular flu vaccine. Whereas for COVID-19 it appears children are less likely to be infected with and to transmit COVID-19, this is not the case for influenza, where children are frequent transmitters. Therefore, ensuring all students, teachers, and staff receive the seasonal flu vaccine is an extremely high priority. The Department of Public Health will be issuing updated guidance regarding vaccines for schools and parents.
Health and Safety/PPE Supplies
Per the initial supply guidance issued by Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, schools should have an inventory of standard healthcare supplies (e.g., masks and gloves). Use of additional supplies may be optional based on type of tasks performed (e.g., teachers do not need to wear gloves while teaching but may need to during necessary contact with students, such as when providing physical support to students with disabilities). All districts are eligible for federal CARES Actfunds to support these purchases.
Communication Structures
Each school district should identify a COVID-19 Response Leader Point of Contact (POC). The COVID-19 response leaders should coordinate with key district and school personnel on planning efforts over the summer and be a key part of the implementation as schools open.
Establish planning and implementation teams with POC's for the following essential domains:
Teaching and learning, including plans for in-person learning, hybrid learning, and remote learning, including technology needs and training.
Student supports, including addressing mental health and trauma.
Special education, English learners, and other special student populations.
Personnel and staffing, including managing staff assignments, supporting staff with high risk medical conditions, addressing the need for possible additional staff to assist with instruction, possible additional needs for tutors, and ways to provide additional support including recruitment of volunteers as needed.
Facilities and operations, including cleaning and sanitation, classroom and building set-up and flow, and food services.
Transportation, including bus transportation capacity and safety protocols, management of increased traffic flow from families who decide to drop off/pick up their children, promotion of alternatives such as walking and biking.
Additional domains appropriate to each school and district.
Communication Plans and Structures
Develop and begin implementing a plan for communicating more intensively with students, families, staff, and the community. This plan should include both two-way proactive communication (e.g., providing information and receiving feedback) and emergency communication. Consider creating and practicing communication systems with parents, students, all staff, facility and/or grounds management, and emergency medical services. Ensure translation of any information published by the school into the primary language spoken by the parent/guardian and make interpretation services available for two-way communication.
Establish connections and a process to work with local boards of health so that all parties are up to date on various statewide and local guidance and plans (e.g., health and safety updates, COVID-19 testing availability, availability of flu vaccines, etc.).
Family Survey
Develop a family survey to support school reopening planning and scheduling. Districts should consider surveying families multiple times throughout the summer and potentially into the school year. Districts and schools can use the survey to help determine:
Children who will return to school in the fall in-person
Children who will continue remote learning and for what reasons
Children who need internet/technology access, and/or other technical support or one-on-one guidance
Children who will need bus transportation
Families who are planning to use alternate transportation (e.g., drop off and pick up their children, have their children walk or bike)
Families who will need food assistance and other essential services
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Our Schools, State Guidelines - Distancing, Grouping, Screening
According to the CDC, in lieu of a vaccine or therapeutic drug, mitigation is the greatest weapon communities can wield to slow the spread of a virus with pandemic potential such as COVID-19. COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by a new, (and some data suggests evolving) coronavirus.
The current state of the COVID-19 pandemic is continually evolving. What is true today may not be tomorrow. At this time, the evidence suggests schools have not played a significant role in COVID-19 transmission and that children, particularly younger children, are less likely than adults to be infected with COVID-19.
Governor Baker's administration provided the following guidance to help communities develop their individual plans which were submitted last Friday, August 14th.
NOTE:COVID-19 is highly transmissible. Individuals should follow these universal precautions regardless of the extent of mitigation needed:
Physical distancing is another important practice that helps mitigate transmission of the virus. While the U.S. federal CDC has recommended maintaining a physical distance of six feet between individuals, the World Health Organization’s (WHO)guidance states approximately three feet. There is no precise threshold for safety; indeed, studies suggest that physical distancing of three feet or more leads to reduced transmission, with additional distance providing additional protection. For instance, in a study of household transmission in China, keeping at least three feet of distance was associated with one-fourth the number of transmissions. It is important to note that six feet distancing is emphasized in public health advisories especially when no mask/face covering is worn.
Baker's administration encourages districts and schools to aim for six feet of distance between individuals where feasible. At the same time, a minimum physical distance of three feet has been established when combined with the other measures outlined in this list of safety requirements. Because of the reduced susceptibility in children and lower apparent rates of transmission, establishing a minimum physical distance of three feet is informed by evidence and balances the lower risk of COVID-19 transmission and the overarching benefits of in-person school.
The state's guidance is based on review of the physical distance guidance for many other states and countries. In addition to the WHO, several other countries including Denmark, France, China, and Hong Kong recommend one meter (approximately three feet) distance in schools. The United Kingdom is also changing its guidance to one meter of distance beginning July 4, replacing previous guidance of two meters.
Finally, this guidance is for fall reopening and is predicated on the Commonwealth continuing to progress through the phases of reopening with low COVID-19 public health metrics. It will be critical to continue to take into account the community context of COVID-19 prevalence into the fall and winter. Where the community prevalence of COVID-19 is of concern, increased distancing will need to be considered.
Initial Requirements and Related Guidance
As reviewed and advised by the Massachusetts COVID-19 Command Center Medical Advisory Group, schools should aim for a physical distance of six feet when feasible, and three feet is the minimum distance allowed. Schools should 10 seek to maximize physical distance among individuals within their physical and operational constraints.
To the extent possible, aim for desks to be spaced six feet apart (but no fewer than three feet apart) and facing the same direction. Again, schools should seek to maximize physical distance between desks within their physical and operational constraints.
Alternative spaces in the school (e.g., cafeteria, library, and auditorium) should be repurposed to increase the amount of available space to accommodate the maximum distance possible.
In these larger spaces, establishing consistent cohorts/classes with separation between the cohorts/classes provides another option to maximize these spaces safely.
Additional safety precautions are required for school nurses and/or any staff supporting students with disabilities in close proximity, when distance is not possible: These precautions must include eye protection (e.g., face shield or goggles) and a mask/face covering. Precautions may also include gloves and disposable gowns or washable outer layer of clothing depending on duration of contact and especially if the individual may come into close contact with bodily fluids.
Student Groups
To minimize the number of students who would potentially be exposed in the event of a COVID-19 event, to the extent feasible, elementary schools should aim to keep students in the same group throughout the day and middle and high schools are encouraged to minimize mixing student groups to the extent feasible.
Cohorts: Schools should divide students into small groups that remain with each other throughout the day, with smaller cohort sizes preferred. Schools should look for ways to isolate cohorts of students and prevent inter-group contact to the extent feasible.
Capacity: There are no required maximums on cohort or group sizes, so long as schools adhere to the physical distancing requirements above. (This guidance for the fall will replace previous summer guidance at the start of the school year, assuming positive health metrics hold.)
Screening Upon Entry:
Checking for symptoms each morning by families and caregivers is critical and will serve as the primary screening mechanism for COVID-19 symptoms. Schools should provide information to families in their primary language to support them in conducting this symptom check and families should not send their children to school if they exhibit COVID19 symptoms. We will be providing a checklist of symptoms and other guides to districts and schools to help families and students.
Screening procedures are not required at the point of entry to the school. However, school staff (as well as bus drivers) should observe students throughout the day and refer students who may be symptomatic to the school healthcare point of contact.
As noted in previous guidance, temperature checks are not recommended as screening for all students due to the high likelihood of potential false positive and false negative results.
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Our Schools, State Guidelines - Background and Facial Coverings
This past Friday, August 14th, the State of Massachusetts required all School districts to submit their education plans for the coming academic school year. Each school district was required to submit plans that cover all three potential scenarios:
In-school, traditional setting
Hybrid, scaled down, in-school paired with remote learning
100% remote learning
Governor Baker's administration provided the following guidance to help communities develop their individual plans.
According to the administration both education and medical groups agree that we must keep in mind both the risks associated with COVID-19 for in-person school programs and the known challenges and consequences of keeping students out of school for extended periods of time. While remote learning has improved over the course of the school closures, there is no substitute for in-person instruction when it comes to the quality of students’ academic learning. In-person school plays an equally important role in our ability to support students’ social-emotional needs, including their mental and physical health.
According to the CDC, in lieu of a vaccine or therapeutic drug, mitigation is the greatest weapon communities can wield to slow the spread of a virus with pandemic potential such as COVID-19. COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by a new, (and some data suggests evolving) coronavirus.
The following highlights CDC's recommended goals and guiding principles to be considered when formulating our plans to reopen our schools.
NOTE:COVID-19 is highly transmissible. Individuals should follow these universal precautions regardless of the extent of mitigation needed:
The current state of the COVID-19 pandemic is continually evolving. What is true today may not be tomorrow. At this time, the evidence suggests schools have not played a significant role in COVID-19 transmission and that children, particularly younger children, are less likely than adults to be infected with COVID-19.
Furthermore, if they become infected, it appears children may be less likely to transmit COVID-19 to others. Based on these initial findings, the health and safety requirements throughout this guidance, as well as considering the key features of school programming at different grade spans, the current evidence supports a safe in-person return to school with implementation details varying for elementary schools (including pre-kindergarten programs), middle schools, and high schools.
Schools Do Not Appear To Have Played A Major Role In COVID-19 Transmission.
In a review of COVID clusters, only 4% (8 of 210) involved school transmission. In a case study from New South Wales Australia, after 18 cases were found in schools (12 in high schools and 6 in primary schools), only 0.3% of student contacts were infected (1 in 695 individuals in 10 high schools and 1 in 168 individuals in primary schools). No teachers or staff were infected.
In General, Rates Of COVID-19 Infection Are Lower For Children Than For Adults.
Based on an analysis of data from six countries, children under 20 are half as susceptible to COVID-19 infection than adults. Furthermore, although children under the age of 18 make up 22% of the U.S. population, they account for less than 2% of all cases of COVID-19. In Massachusetts, children under the age of 19 were about four times less likely than the population at large to be diagnosed with COVID-19. Children are more likely to be asymptomatic, however, which underscores the importance of health behaviors for everyone (masks/face coverings, distancing, handwashing, surface cleaning).
If Exposed, Children May Be Less Likely To Become Infected With COVID-19
A meta-analysis of studies from several countries found that children were only 44% as likely as adults to become infected after exposure (note: pre-print study). In China, in households with COVID-19 exposure, children under the age of 18 were infected at a rate of 4% compared with 17% for adults.
If Infected, It Appears Children May Be Less Likely To Infect Others
Most transmissions are from adults to children, rather than vice versa; this is different from some other respiratory viruses. In a U.S. study of 15 households, 73% of transmissions were from adult-to-child (the remaining were child-to-child or child-to-adult).
Health And Safety Requirements And Related Guidance For In-Person Learning
The health and safety of students and staff are everyone's top priority when making the decision to reopen schools for in-person learning this fall. The following health and safety requirements have been developed in collaboration with infectious disease physicians, pediatricians and public health experts from the Massachusetts General Brigham Health System and the Massachusetts chapter of American Academy of Pediatrics. Our process has included a thorough review of guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and World Health Organization (WHO), as well as available medical literature on COVID-19 related to children and school settings. Finally, the MA COVID-19 Command Center Medical Advisory Board, made up of physicians and other health experts, has carefully reviewed the health and safety requirements for in-person learning outlined in this section.
At this time, these are the health and safety practices that will enable the safe reopening of schools for in-person learning this fall. These requirements will be modified as needed. In addition to required practices, we have also included guidance on best practices where applicable.
As general background, COVID-19 spreads when people are in relatively close proximity, through respiratory droplets generated through coughing, sneezing, or talking to an infected person. Among the most effective preventive measures – when used consistently and in combination – are masks/face coverings, physical distancing, handwashing, and cleaning frequently touched surfaces.
Masks/face coverings
As the primary route of transmission for COVID-19 is respiratory, masks or face coverings are among the most critical components of risk reduction. Masks/face coverings protect the general public against COVID-19 infection, with a recent retrospective study estimating near 80% effectiveness in reducing COVID-19 transmission, especially when worn prior to symptom onset. In the United States, states advising face masks/face coverings be worn in public saw a decline in their COVID-19 growth rates, and community-wide mask/face covering usage contributed to control of COVID-19 in Hong Kong. At this time, our initial requirements and related guidance are as follows:
Students in grade 2 and above are required to wear a mask/face covering that covers their nose and mouth. Students in kindergarten and grade 1 should be encouraged to wear a mask/face covering. Face shields may be an option for those students with medical, behavioral, or other challenges who are unable to wear masks/face coverings. Transparent masks may be the best option for both teachers and students in classes for deaf and hard of hearing students. They may also be useful for teachers and younger students who rely on visual / facial cues.
Adults, including educators and staff, are required to wear masks/face coverings.
Exceptions to mask/face covering requirements must be made for those for whom it is not possible due to medical conditions, disability impact, or other health or safety factors.
Mask breaks should occur throughout the day. Breaks should occur when students can be six feet apart and ideally outside or at least with the windows open. Further guidance on mask breaks including duration and frequency will be forthcoming, as well as more information about properly removing and putting on masks.
Masks/face coverings should be provided by the student/family, but extra disposable face masks should be made available by the school for students who need them. Reusable masks/face coverings provided by families should be washed by families daily. Districts and schools with families experiencing financial hardship and unable to afford masks/face coverings should endeavor to provide masks for students through grant funds described earlier in this document.
Masks/face coverings are required to be worn by everyone on the bus during school bus transportation.
Transparent face coverings provide the opportunity for more visual cues and should be especially considered as an alternative for younger students, students who are deaf and hard of hearing, and their teachers.
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Our Schools, Reopening Plans Due Today
Today marks the state-imposed deadline for school districts across Massachusetts to submit their fall reopening plans. The state's education department directed school districts to prepare plans for three different reopening models: in-person, remote or a mix of the two. Several districts have already opted for online-only or hybrid versions of in-person and remote learning.
This comes at a time when the Commonwealth is seeing a rise COVID-19 case counts. The Department of Public Health confirmed 210 new cases of COVID-19 on Saturday and 273 more cases on Sunday, along with the announcement of 31 recent COVID-19 deaths between the two days. The number of daily new cases, which had generally settled at fewer than 200 a day earlier in the month, has been above 200 each of the last four days.
There has been push back from unions and parents regarding any model with any form of in-person learning. Currently there are at least 31 districts in Massachusetts that have already decided against having kids return to class at all at this time. These districts will begin the new school year offering remote learning only. To
To find out if your school district has decided to offer remote learning only click here.
The most challenging aspect of the coming school year is that, state wide, Massachusetts may have lost more than a quarter of the available space at child care centers. This is sure to complicate life for parents who will need child care services this coming school year. To help, the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care (EEC) has created a geographic search tool to help you find licensed child care programs. You can search by both geographic area and child care program type. Unfortunately, some licensed programs choose to not be listed in EEC's searchable directory. If a program that you are looking for doesn't appear in your search results, you can call your local EEC office to confirm whether the program is licensed.
NOTE: According to the CDC, in lieu of a vaccine or therapeutic drug, mitigation is the greatest weapon communities can wield to slow the spread of a virus with pandemic potential such as COVID-19. COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by a new (and some data suggests evolving) coronavirus.
COVID-19 is highly transmissible. Individuals should follow these universal precautions regardless of the extent of mitigation needed:
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass EEC, and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Our Schools, Helping Children Cope with Change in School Routines
The COVID-19 pandemic can be stressful for most of us, especially our children. Fear and anxiety about what could happen can be overwhelming and cause strong emotions children. Public health actions, such as social distancing, cancelation of school sports and remote learning can make children feel isolated and lonely leading to increased levels of stress and anxiety. Parents, however, understand that these actions are necessary to reduce the spread of COVID-19 and keep our communities safe.
As communities finalize their academic plans for the coming school year it is clear that, whatever the solution is, returning to a traditional school setting is not an option. Regardless of your child’s age, this realization can have traumatic effects on them. They may feel upset, depressed or have other strong emotions. Some children react right away, while others may show signs of difficulty much later.
According to the CDC, creating a support system and helping our children cope with the stresses resulting from the changes in our lifestyles caused by the prolonged COVID-19 pandemic is vital to their mental wellbeing. The following highlights influential factors to a child's emotional wellbeing, common reactions children exhibit, and how to help them cope.
NOTE: According to the CDC, in lieu of a vaccine or therapeutic drug, mitigation is the greatest weapon communities can wield to slow the spread of a virus with pandemic potential such as COVID-19. COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by a new (and some data suggests evolving) coronavirus.
COVID-19 is highly transmissible. Individuals should follow these universal precautions regardless of the extent of mitigation needed:
Factors that Influence the Emotional Impact on Children During a Pandemic
The prolonged separation from school, family, and friends can create a great amount of stress and anxiety for children. The emotional impact of a pandemic on a child depends on a child’s characteristics and experiences, the social and economic circumstances of the family and community, and the availability of local resources. Not all children respond in the same ways. Some might have more severe, longer-lasting reactions. The following specific factors may affect a child’s emotional response:
Direct involvement with the pandemic (i.e. have they or someone they care about been infected)
Previous traumatic or stressful event
Belief that the they or a loved one may die
Loss of a family member, close friend, or pet
Separation from caregivers
Physical illness
How parents and caregivers respond
Family resources
Relationships and communication among family members
Repeated exposure to mass media coverage of the pandemic
Ongoing stress due to the change in familiar routines and living conditions
Cultural differences
Community resilience
Common Reactions
How a child reacts and the common signs of distress can vary according to the child’s age, previous experiences, and how the child typically copes with stress. The common reactions to distress will fade over time for most children. Children who were directly exposed to the effects of a pandemic can become upset again; behavior related to the event may return if they see or hear reminders of what happened. If children continue to be very upset or if their reactions hurt their schoolwork or relationships then parents may want to talk to a professional or have their children talk to someone who specializes in children’s emotional needs. Learn more about common reactions to distress:
Infants to 2 Year Olds
Infants may become more cranky. They may cry more than usual or want to be held and cuddled more.
3 to 6 Year Olds
Preschool and kindergarten children may return to behaviors they have outgrown. For example, toileting accidents, bed-wetting, or being frightened about being separated from their parents/caregivers. They may also have tantrums or a hard time sleeping.
7 to 10 Year Olds
Older children may feel sad, mad, or afraid that the pandemic will never end. Peers may share false information with them, worsening their fears. Parents or caregivers must correct the misinformation as soon as possible. Older children may focus on details of the pandemic and want to talk about it all the time or not want to talk about it at all. Also, they may have trouble concentrating.
Preteens and Teenagers
Some preteens and teenagers respond to stressful situations by acting out. This could include reckless driving, and alcohol or drug use. Others may become afraid to leave the home. They may resent the inability to spend time with their friends. They can feel overwhelmed by their intense emotions and feel unable to talk about them. Their emotions may lead to increased arguing and even fighting with siblings, parents/caregivers or other adults.
Children with Special Needs
Children who need continuous use of a breathing machine or are confined to a wheelchair or bed or are at a higher risk of infection, may have stronger reactions to pandemic such as COVID-19. They might have more intense distress, worry or anger than children without special needs because they have less control over day-to-day well-being than other people. The same is true for children with other physical, emotional, or intellectual limitations. Children with special needs may need extra words of reassurance, more explanations about the event, and more comfort and other positive physical contact such as hugs from loved ones.
How to Help Children Cope with a Pandemic
While it is necessary for parents to stay informed about the effects of the pandemic to their local communities and the world around them it is equally important to understand that children can become more distressed if they see and hear constant, negative reminders of the current reality in the media. Parents should consider limiting the amount of exposure your children get to media coverage.
Setting a good example for your children by managing your stress through healthy lifestyle choices, such as eating healthy, exercising regularly, getting plenty of sleep, and avoiding drugs and alcohol, is critical for parents and caregivers. When you are prepared, rested, and relaxed you can respond better to unexpected events and can make decisions in the best interest of your family and loved ones.
The following tips can help reduce stress before, during, and after a disaster or traumatic event such as a pandemic.
Before
Talk to your children so that they know you are prepared to keep them safe.
Review safety plans. Having a plan will increase your children’s confidence and help give them a sense of control.
During
Stay calm and reassure your children often.
Talk to children about what is happening in a way that they can understand.
Keep it simple and appropriate for each child’s age.
After
Provide children with opportunities to talk about what they went through or what they think about it.
Encourage them to share concerns and ask questions.
Encouraging them to take action directly related to the pandemic. For example, they could make masks or hand sanitizer. This will help your children feel a sense of control and enable them to better manage their feelings.
It is difficult to predict how some children will respond to traumatic events. Because parents, teachers, and other adults see children in different situations, it is important for them to work together to share information about how each child is coping after a traumatic event.
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Our Schools, How to Prepare for an Outbreak
As it becomes closer to the decision making point for local communities and parents regarding the 20-21 academic year it is important to note that no amount of preparation and mitigation will eliminate the risk of potential transmission of COVID-19 within our school systems. Therefore, it is important for communities to have a response plan in place and for parents to be aware of the plan. The following is CDC's guidance for school administrators and community leaders to follow when developing their response plans.
NOTE: According to the CDC, in lieu of a vaccine or therapeutic drug, mitigation is the greatest weapon communities can wield to slow the spread of a virus with pandemic potential such as COVID-19. COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by a new (and some data suggests evolving) coronavirus.
COVID-19 is highly transmissible. Individuals should follow these universal precautions regardless of the extent of mitigation needed:
Schools should be prepared for COVID-19 outbreaks in their local communities and for individual exposure events to occur in their facilities, regardless of the level of community transmission, for example a case associated with recent travel to an area with sustained COVID-19 transmission. The pictured decision tree can be used to help schools determine which set of mitigation strategies may be most appropriate for their current situation.
When a Confirmed Case has Entered a School
Any school in any community might need to implement short-term closure procedures regardless of community spread if an infected person has been in a school building. If this happens, CDC recommends the following procedures regardless of the level of community spread:
Coordinate with Local Health Officials.
Once learning of a COVID-19 case in someone who has been in the school, immediately notify local health officials. These officials will help administrators determine a course of action for their child care programs or schools.
Dismiss Students and Most Staff for 2-5 Days.
This initial short-term dismissal allows time for the local health officials to gain a better understanding of the COVID-19 situation impacting the school and allows the local health officials to help the school determine appropriate next steps, including whether an extended dismissal duration is needed to stop or slow further spread of COVID-19.
Local health officials’ recommendations for the scope (e.g., a single school, multiple schools, the full district) and duration of school dismissals will be made on a case-by-case basis using the most up-to-date information about COVID-19 and the specific cases in the community.
During school dismissals, also cancel extracurricular group activities, school-based afterschool programs, and large events (e.g., assemblies, spirit nights, field trips, and sporting events).
Discourage staff, students, and their families from gathering or socializing anywhere. This includes group child care arrangements, as well as gathering at places like a friend’s house, a favorite restaurant, or the local shopping mall.
Communicate with Staff, Parents, and Students
Coordinate with local health officials to communicate dismissal decisions and the possible COVID-19 exposure.
This communication to the school community should align with the communication plan in the school’s emergency operations plan.
Plan to include messages to counter potentialstigma and discrimination.
Close off areas used by the individuals with COVID-19 and wait as long as practical before beginning cleaning and disinfection to minimize potential for exposure to respiratory droplets. Open outside doors and windows to increase air circulation in the area. If possible, wait up to 24 hours before beginning cleaning and disinfection.
Cleaning staff should clean and disinfect all areas (e.g., offices, bathrooms, and common areas) used by the ill persons, focusing especially on frequently touched surfaces.
If surfaces are dirty, they should be cleaned using a detergent or soap and water prior to disinfection.
For disinfection most common EPA-registered household disinfectants should be effective.
A list of products that are EPA-approved for use against the virus that causes COVID-19 is available here. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for all cleaning and disinfection products (e.g., concentration, application method and contact time, etc.).
Additionally, diluted household bleach solutions can be used if appropriate for the surface. Follow manufacturer’s instructions for application and proper ventilation. Check to ensure the product is not past its expiration date.
Never mix household bleach with ammonia or any other cleanser. Unexpired household bleach will be effective against coronaviruses when properly diluted.
Prepare a bleach solution by mixing:
5 tablespoons (1/3rd cup) bleach per gallon of water or
4 teaspoons bleach per quart of water
Additional information on cleaning and disinfection of community facilities such as schools can be found on CDC’s website.
Make Decisions About Extending the School Dismissal.
Temporarily dismissing child care programs and K-12 schools is a strategy to stop or slow the further spread of COVID-19 in communities.
During school dismissals (after cleaning and disinfection), child care programs and schools may stay open for staff members (unless ill) while students stay home. Keeping facilities open:
Allows teachers to develop and deliver lessons and materials remotely, thus maintaining continuity of teaching and learning
Allows other staff members to continue to provide services and help with additional response efforts.
Decisions on which, if any, staff should be allowed in the school should be made in collaboration with local health officials.
Child care and school administrators should work in close collaboration and coordination with local health officials to make dismissal and large event cancellation decisions. Schools should not be expected to make decisions about dismissal or canceling events on their own. School dismissals and event cancellations may be extended if advised by local health officials. The nature of these actions (e.g., geographic scope, duration) may change as the local outbreak situation evolves.
Administrators should seek guidance from local health officials to determine when students and staff should return to schools and what additional steps are needed for the school community. In addition, students and staff who are well but are taking care of or share a home with someone with a case of COVID-19 should follow instructions from local health officials to determine when to return to school.
Implement Strategies to Continue Education and Related Supports for Students
Ensure continuity of education.
Review continuity plans, including plans for the continuity of teaching and learning. Implement e-learning plans, including digital and distance learning options as feasible and appropriate.
Determine, in consultation with school district officials or other relevant state or local partners:
If a waiver is needed for state requirements of a minimum number of in-person instructional hours or school days (seat time) as a condition for funding
How to convert face-to-face lessons into online lessons and how to train teachers to do so
How to triage technical issues if faced with limited IT support and staff
How to encourage appropriate adult supervision while children are using distance learning approaches
How to deal with the potential lack of students’ access to computers and the Internet at home.
Ensure continuity of meal programs.
Consider ways to distribute food to students.
If there is community spread of COVID-19, design strategies to avoid distribution in settings where people might gather in a group or crowd. Consider options such as “grab-and-go” bagged lunches or meal delivery.
Consider alternatives for providing essential medical and social services for students.
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Our Schools, Decision Making Tool
As schools begin to reopen across the nation, parents, guardians, and caregivers will be making decisions based on numerous factors, such as individual preferences, health concerns, work situations, and school considerations. When making decisions about school for your family, there are many things to think about beyond academics, such as access to school meal programs, social services, extended day childcare, extra-curricular activities, social-emotional support from peers and educators, and transportation. Parents, guardians, and caregivers will be thinking about numerous factors, such as individual preferences, health concerns, work situations, and school considerations.
Many schools are offering parents and guardians a choice between in-person and virtual modes of instruction. CDC's Decision-Making Tool for Parents and Guardians is designed to help you think through school re-entry and the choices that your child’s school is offering.
According to the CDC, in lieu of a vaccine or therapeutic drug, mitigation is the greatest weapon communities can wield to slow the spread of a virus with pandemic potential such as COVID-19. COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by a new (and some data suggests evolving) coronavirus.
NOTE:COVID-19 is highly transmissible. Individuals should follow these universal precautions regardless of the extent of mitigation needed:
If you, your child, or a household member are at increased risk for severe illness from COVID-19, you will need to weigh the benefits, risks, and feasibility of the educational options available. The table below will help you to assess your risk for COVID-19. If your response to any of the following 3 scenarios it true the risk of COVID infection is high.
My child has an underlying condition that increases the risk for severe illness from COVID-19.
I live with someone, or my child’s caregiver, is at increased risk for severe illness from COVID-19 due to age or underlying medical conditions.
The level of community spread in my area is high.
Decision-Making Tool
Choosing whether or not to send your child back to school can be difficult. When weighing decisions about your child returning to school, it is important to consider your family’s unique needs and situation and your comfort level with the steps your school is taking to reduce the spread of COVID-19. Some considerations may include the specific risks to members of your household if a child were to become infected in school, as well as access to school meal programs, social services, extended day childcare services and extra-curricular activities, social-emotional support from peers and educators, and school transportation.
These questions address your views about how your school is preparing for school year 2020-2021 and are designed to help you weigh the risks and benefits of available educational options before you make decisions. If you answer “unsure” to any items regarding your school’s plan, consider reaching out to your school administrator for more information.
I feel comfortable with my school’s reopening plans for reducing risk of spreading COVID-19.
Does not Apply
Disagree
Unsure
Agree
I believe my school has the resources needed to effectively implement their reopening plan (e.g., staffing, supplies, training).
Does not Apply
Disagree
Unsure
Agree
I feel comfortable with my school’s plan if a student or staff member test positive for COVID-19.
Does not Apply
Disagree
Unsure
Agree
I believe my school has a plan to provide an effective program of instruction every day of the regular school week (generally five days).
Does not Apply
Disagree
Unsure
Agree
I am satisfied with how my school communicates with families about the changes it is considering.
Does not Apply
Disagree
Unsure
Agree
I am satisfied with how my school is addressing parents’ or caregivers’ concerns and questions.
Does not Apply
Disagree
Unsure
Agree
My child knows how to properly wear a mask and understands the importance of doing so.
Does not Apply
Disagree
Unsure
Agree
My child can wear a mask for an extended period of time, if required by the school.
Does not Apply
Disagree
Unsure
Agree
My child has a reliable mode of transportation to and from school (e.g., school bus, carpool, walk/bike, public transit).
Does not Apply
Disagree
Unsure
Agree
I am comfortable with how my child’s mode of transportation to and from school is reducing the risk of spreading COVID-19 (e.g., decreased bus/transit capacity, wearing masks, increased cleaning and disinfecting practices).
Does not Apply
Disagree
Unsure
Agree
Virtual/At-Home Learning Feasibility
These questions assess whether learning would be feasible for you and your child.
I am able to work while my child is not in school (i.e., can still successfully do my job or I am able to telework).
Does not Apply
Disagree
Unsure
Agree
I have access to reliable internet and a device, such as a computer or tablet, which my child can use for virtual learning.
Does not Apply
Disagree
Unsure
Agree
I can supervise or identify someone who can supervise my child during periods of virtual/at home learning.
Does not Apply
Disagree
Unsure
Agree
My child has a space where I live that is free of distractions during school hours.
Does not Apply
Disagree
Unsure
Agree
My school provides a virtual learning option that allows students to have real-time interactions with their teachers (e.g., have live instruction).
Does not Apply
Disagree
Unsure
Agree
My child’s learning style and needs are compatible with digital modes of learning.
Does not Apply
Disagree
Unsure
Agree
Academic and Social-Emotional Wellbeing
These questions assess your belief in your child's ability to succeed, both academically and socially, in a remote learning environment.
My child will be able to keep up academically through virtual/at-home learning.
Does not Apply
Disagree
Unsure
Agree
My child will receive quality education through virtual/at-home learning.
Does not Apply
Disagree
Unsure
Agree
My child will be sufficiently engaged during prolonged periods of virtual/at-home learning.
Does not Apply
Disagree
Unsure
Agree
My child will be able to stay socially connected during prolonged periods of virtual/at-home learning.
Does not Apply
Disagree
Unsure
Agree
My child will be able to keep up academically through virtual/at-home learning.
Does not Apply
Disagree
Unsure
Agree
My child will receive quality education through virtual/at-home learning.
Does not Apply
Disagree
Unsure
Agree
My child will be sufficiently engaged during prolonged periods of virtual/at-home learning.
Does not Apply
Disagree
Unsure
Agree
My child will be able to stay socially connected during prolonged periods of virtual/at-home learning.
Does not Apply
Disagree
Unsure
Agree
If my child needs specialized adaptive communication devices, equipment, or learning aides, I am able to have them where I live.
Does not Apply
Disagree
Unsure
Agree
School-Based Services
These questions review some school-based services that your family may be using. You may want to consider whether you have been able to access these services through a virtual/at home learning option, your satisfaction with the services to date, and whether you would prefer to receive these services in school. If your child is at higher risk for severe illness and relies on school-based services that are only available on site, you may want to have additional conversations with your school to address concerns you may have.
If your child has an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or other specialized learning or behavior plan…
Does not Apply
Disagree
Unsure
Agree
My child is able to receive the required IEP learning accommodations through a virtual/at-home learning option that meets my family’s needs.
Does not Apply
Disagree
Unsure
Agree
If your child receives school-based learning services (e.g., tutoring before or after school) …
Does not Apply
Disagree
Unsure
Agree
My child is able to receive needed school-based learning services through a virtual/at-home learning option that meets my family’s needs.
Does not Apply
Disagree
Unsure
Agree
If your child receives school-based nutrition services (e.g., school breakfast or lunch) …
Does not Apply
Disagree
Unsure
Agree
My child has an alternative to the nutrition services provided in schools that adequately meets our family’s needs (Your school district’s child nutrition website may have this information).
Does not Apply
Disagree
Unsure
Agree
If your child receives school-based behavioral services (e.g., social skills training, occupational therapy, speech/language therapy) …
Does not Apply
Disagree
Unsure
Agree
My child is able to receive needed behavioral services through a virtual/at-home option that meets my family’s needs.
Does not Apply
Disagree
Unsure
Agree
If your child receives school-based emotional or mental health services…
Does not Apply
Disagree
Unsure
Agree
My child is able to receive needed emotional or mental health services through a virtual/at-home option that meets my family’s needs.
Does not Apply
Disagree
Unsure
Agree
If your child attends after care (including after school clubs and activities) provided by the school…
Does not Apply
Disagree
Unsure
Agree
My child has an alternative to the after-care services provided by schools that adequately meets my family’s needs.
Does not Apply
Disagree
Unsure
Agree
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
This time of year most of us enjoy cooking outside. Weather you choose gas or charcoal to cook with, if not you are not careful, both both can cause fires. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), misuse of grills, hibachis and barbecues will cause an average of 8,900 home fires. The most common injury is thermal burns. According to the NFPA:
Gas grills cause almost 9,000 structure and outdoor fires each year in the U.S.
An average of more than 18,000 Americans are injured each year by grill fires.
97 percent of grill fires occur between May and August.
There is still plenty of time to enjoy a weekend barbecue or two! Follow the tips below to do so safely.
General Grill Safety
Only use propane and charcoal grills outdoors. This will minimize the risk of fire and exposure to toxic gases and potential asphyxiation.
Position the grill several feet away from house siding and deck railings. Don’t locate it under eaves and overhanging branches.
Place the grill a safe distance from lawn games, play areas and foot traffic. Keep children and pets from the grill area by creating a three-foot safety zone around the grill.
Use long-handled barbecue tools. Wear short sleeves or roll them up when cooking on the grill.
Periodically clean out the grease or fat that has built up in trays below the grill.
Keep a bucket of water near your grill.
Charcoal Grills
Always make sure your grill is clean and free of ash and grease.
Purchase the appropriate starter fluid and store it out of reach of children and away from heat sources.
Never use any flammable or combustible liquid other than charcoal starter fluid.
Never add charcoal starter fluid after coals or kindling have been ignited.
Propane Gas Grills
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to set up the grill and maintain it.
At the start of grilling season, check the burners for clogs, make sure all hoses and connections are secure, and restock the propane if needed.
Check the propane cylinder hose for leaks before using it for the first time each year. A soap and water solution applied to the hose will bubble up to reveal escaping propane. If you detect a leak, turn off the tank and grill. If you can stop the leak, don’t use the grill until you have it serviced by a professional. If the leak won’t stop, call the fire department.
If you smell gas while cooking, get away from the grill and call the fire department. Do not attempt to move the grill.
Use only propane cylinders manufactured after April 2002 with overfill protection devices (OPD).
Never store propane cylinders in buildings or garages.
As the state, local communities and families struggle to understand and plan for the best, safest, course of action to take regarding the reopening of our schools we will be doing our best to share with our communities the most up-to-date guidance regarding best practices to reopen our school systems in the most responsible and safe way possible.
According to the CDC, in lieu of a vaccine or therapeutic drug, mitigation is the greatest weapon communities can wield to slow the spread of a virus with pandemic potential such as COVID-19. COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by a new (and some data suggests evolving) coronavirus.
The following highlights CDC's guidelines for regular communication between community leaders and parents as well as the anticipation of and planning for potential cases of COVID-19.
NOTE:COVID-19 is highly transmissible. Individuals should follow these universal precautions regardless of the extent of mitigation needed:
Communicate with Families, Staff, and other Stakeholders
When preparing to go back to school, regular communication should be used to update students, families, teachers, and staff about academic standards, meal program services, and access to other school-based essential services that students and families rely on.
Regular communication with families, staff, and other partners should include:
Updates about the status of COVID-19 in the school and community
Notification when there are COVID-19 cases in the school (when communicating about the health status of students, schools should take care to avoid disclosing personally identifiable information and should follow all applicable privacy requirements, including those of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act)
Explanation of what parents, students, teachers, and staff can expect when returning to school; in particular, communicating about:
The importance of staying home when sick and staying home to monitor symptoms if close contact occurred with a person who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2.
Considerations for COVID-19 symptom screenings
Types of social distancing measures being implemented
When students, teachers, staff and/or visitors will be expected to wear cloth face coverings and whether cloth face coverings will be available from the school.
Everydayhealthy hygiene practicesthat will be implemented upon reopening (e.g., students, teachers, staff staying home when sick, hand hygiene, cleaning frequently touched surfaces)
Actions being taken to prevent SARS-Cov-2 transmission in buses, school buildings and facilities
Guidance on how to reduce stigma. Fear and anxiety about a disease can lead to social stigma, which is negative attitudes and beliefs toward people, places, or things
Families and students who had to make alternative arrangements with community providers to receive services (e.g., physical or occupational therapy, speech therapy, mental health services) during periods of school closures may need additional support and communication to establish a transition plan upon returning to school. Additionally, some families may have experienced significant hardship that now increases the number of students who need or qualify for some services, such as school meal programs. Schools can take actions to identify, support, and communicate with families who need to initiate new services as schools prepare to open. Administrators can work with community partners to plan for additional school-based services and programs during the transition back to normal schedules in anticipation of an increased need for mental health services.
Expect, and Plan for, Cases of COVID-19 in Communities
International experiences have demonstrated that even when a school carefully coordinates, plans, and prepares, cases may still occur within the community and schools. Expecting and planning for the occurrence of cases of COVID-19 in communities can help everyone be prepared for when a case or multiple cases are identified.
Schools should be prepared for COVID-19 cases and exposure to occur in their facilities. Collaborating with local health officials will continue to be important once students are back to school, as they can provide regular updates about the status of COVID-19 in the community and help support and maintain the health and wellbeing of students, teachers, and staff. Having a plan in place for maintaining academic instruction and ensuring students have access to special services is also critical.
Making Decisions About School Operations
Administrators should make decisions in collaboration with local health officials based on a number of factors, including the level of community transmission, whether cases are identified among students, teachers, or staff, what other indicators local public health officials are using to assess the status of COVID-19, and whether student, teacher, and staff cohorts are being implemented within the school.
There are specific strategies schools can implement based on the level of community transmission reported by local health officials:
If there is no to minimal community transmission, reinforcing everyday preventive actions, ensuringproper ventilation within school facilities, including buses, and maintaining cleaning and disinfection practices remain important. These actions can help minimize potential exposure. Schools should also monitor absenteeism among teachers, staff, and students to identify trends and determine if absences are due to COVID-19, symptoms that led to quarantine, concerns about being in the school environment and personal health and safety, or positive test results. Anyone who tests positive for COVID-19 should stay home and self-isolate for the timeframe recommended by public health officials. Anyone who has hadclose contact with someone who has tested positive or is symptomatic for COVID-19 should be tested and stay home until receiving a negative result, or stay home and monitor for symptoms.
If there is minimal to moderate community transmission, schools should follow the actions listed above, and continue implementing mitigation strategies such associal distancing, use of cloth faced coverings, reinforcing everyday preventive actions, and maintaining cleaning and disinfection. This also can include ensuring that student and staff groupings/cohorts are as static as possible and that mixing groups of students and staff is limited.
If there is substantial, controlled transmission, significant mitigation strategies are necessary. These include following all the actions listed above and also ensuring that student and staff groupings/cohorts are as static as possible with limited mixing of student and staff groups, field trips and large gatherings and events are canceled, and communal spaces (e.g., cafeterias, media centers) are closed.
If there is substantial, uncontrolled transmission, schools should work closely with local health officials to make decisions on whether to maintain school operations. The health, safety, and wellbeing of students, teachers, staff and their families is the most important consideration in determining whether school closure is a necessary step. Communities can support schools staying open by implementing strategies that decrease a community’s level of transmission. However, if community transmission levels cannot be decreased, school closure is an important consideration. Plans for virtual learning should be in place in the event of a school closure.
Reminder
Each community is unique. Appropriate mitigation strategies should be based on the best available data. Decision making will vary based on the level of community transmission and local circumstances.
No one strategy is sufficient.
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Our Schools, Mitigation Across Settings and Sectors
As the state, local communities and families struggle to understand and plan for the best, safest, course of action to take regarding the reopening of our schools we will be doing our best to share with our communities the most up-to-date guidance regarding best practices to reopen our school systems in the most responsible and safe way possible.
According to the CDC, in lieu of a vaccine or therapeutic drug, mitigation is the greatest weapon communities can wield to slow the spread of a virus with pandemic potential such as COVID-19. COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by a new (and some data suggests evolving) coronavirus.
The following highlights CDC's recommended mitigation strategies to consider in communities with local COVID-19 transmission across settings and sectors when developing your communities' plan to responsibly and safely reopen school systems.
NOTE:COVID-19 is highly transmissible. Individuals should follow these universal precautions regardless of the extent of mitigation needed:
Cross-cutting community mitigation strategies can be organized into the following categories:
Promoting behaviors that prevent spread
Maintaining healthy environments
Maintaining healthy operations
Preparing for when someone gets sick
Presuming a community is not sheltering-in-place, cross-cutting strategies outlined below should be implemented to the extent possible, and in accordance with the amount of ongoing community transmission.
Important Note: Not all bullets are relevant to each setting or sector. The bullets are meant to be illustrative of community mitigation measures to consider.
Promote Behaviors that Prevent Spread
Educate people to stay home when sick or when they have been in close contact with someone with COVID-19
Teach and reinforce practicing hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette
Teach and reinforce the use of cloth face coverings to protect others (if appropriate)
Ensure adequate supplies are easily available (e.g., soap, hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol, paper towels) to support healthy hygiene behavior
Post signs or posters and promote messaging about behaviors that prevent spread
Protect people at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19
To cope with stress, encourage people to take breaks from the news, take care of their bodies, take time to unwind and connect with others, particularly when they have concerns
Maintain awareness of local or state regulations
Stagger or rotate scheduling
Create static groups or “cohorts” of individuals and avoid mixing between groups
Pursue virtual events. Maintain social distancing at any in-person events, and limit group size as much as possible
Limit non-essential visitors, volunteers, and activities involving external groups or organizations, especially with those who are not from the local area
Encourage telework and virtual meetings if possible
Consider options for non-essential travel in accordance with state and local regulations
Designate a COVID-19 point of contact
Implement flexible and non-punitive leave policies
Monitor absenteeism and create a back-up staffing plan
Notifying individuals (employees, customers, students, etc.) of any COVID-19 exposures while maintaining confidentiality in accordance with privacy laws
Notifying individuals (e.g, employees, customers, students) of any facility closures
Prepare for When Someone Gets Sick
Prepare to isolate and safely transport those who are sick to their home or to a healthcare facility
Encourage individuals who are sick to follow CDC guidancefor caring for oneself and others who are sick
Advise individuals who are sick when it would be safe for them to return based on CDC's criteriato discontinue home isolation
Close off areas used by someone who is sick. Wait >24 hours before cleaning and disinfecting. Ensure safe and correct use and storage of EPA-approved disinfectants, including storing products securely away from children.
Reminder
Each community is unique. Appropriate mitigation strategies should be based on the best available data. Decision making will vary based on the level of community transmission and local circumstances.
No one strategy is sufficient.
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Our Schools, Mitigation Levels and Factors to Consider
Wile things have improved as emergency orders have loosened, the news cycle constantly reminds us that we are not in the clear. On the contrary, one slight miss step and a new COVID-19 "hot spot" emerges on the map. For the vast majority of our "Planning to Reopen" series of blogs our main focus has been on sifting through the tsunami of information and sharing that which would best help the business owners of Commonwealth protect themselves, their employees, and their customers. We feel, now, it is time to pivot.
As the state, communities and families struggle to understand what this all means and the best, safest, course of action to take we will be doing our best to share with our communities the most up-to-date guidance regarding best practices to reopen our school systems in the most responsible and safe way possible.
According to the CDC, in lieu of a vaccine or therapeutic drug, mitigation is the greatest weapon communities can wield to slow the spread of a virus with pandemic potential such as COVID-19. COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by a new (and some data suggests evolving) coronavirus.
The following highlights CDC's recommended levels of mitigation and factors to consider when developing your communities' plan pertaining to safely reopening our schools.
NOTE:COVID-19 is highly transmissible. Individuals should follow these universal precautions regardless of the extent of mitigation needed:
The goal of community mitigation is to slow the potential spread of COVID-19 and to protect all individuals, especially those at increased risk for severe illness, while minimizing the negative impacts of these strategies. We all know that every community presents unique challenges. The guidance below will help decision makers formulate the appropriate levels of mitigation based on their community specific transmission characteristics.
Mitigation Level - Shelter In Place
Community Transmission Level
Substantial, uncontrolled transmission
Identifiable Community Characteristics
Large scale, uncontrolled community transmission, including communal settings
Mitigation Level - Significant mitigation
Community Transmission Level
Substantial, controlled transmission
Identifiable Community Characteristics
Large scale, controlled community transmission, including communal settings
Mitigation Level - Moderate mitigation
Community Transmission Level
Minimal to moderate community transmission
Identifiable Community Characteristics
Sustained transmission with high likelihood or confirmed exposure within communal settings and potential for rapid increase in cases
Mitigation Level - Low mitigation
Community Transmission Level
No to minimal community transmission
Identifiable Community Characteristics
Evidence of isolated cases or limited community transmission, case investigations underway; no evidence of exposure in large communal setting
Factors to Consider
Decision making will vary based on the level of community transmission and local circumstances. The guidance below identify factors for decision makers to consider when formulating the appropriate levels of mitigation based on their community specific transmission characteristics.
Epidemiology
Level of community transmission: more extensive mitigation will be needed when there is greater community transmission
Number and type of outbreaks in specific settings or with vulnerable populations, including, but not limited to nursing homes and other long-term care facilities, correctional facilities, meat and poultry processing plants, and the homeless population
Severity of the disease
Impact of the level of community transmission and any outbreaks on delivery of healthcare or other critical infrastructure or services
Epidemiology in surrounding jurisdictions
Community Characteristics
Size of community and population density
Level of community engagement and support
Size and characteristics of vulnerable populations
Access to healthcare
Transportation infrastructure (e.g., availability and use of mass transit)
Planned large events/gatherings, such as sporting events
Relationship of community to other communities (e.g., transportation hub, tourist destination, volume of commuting, and other attributes)
Healthcare Capacity
Healthcare workforce
Number of healthcare facilities (including ancillary healthcare facilities)
Testing activity
Intensive care capacity
Availability of personal protective equipment (PPE)
Public Health Capacity
Public health workforce and availability of resources to implement strategies (e.g., resources to detect, test, track, and isolate cases)
Available support from other state/local government agencies and partner organizations
Reminder
Each community is unique. Appropriate mitigation strategies should be based on the best available data. Decision making will vary based on the level of community transmission and local circumstances.
No one strategy is sufficient.
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Our Schools, Goals and Guiding Principals
This has been an unprecedented year. Wile things have improved as emergency orders have loosened, the news cycle constantly reminds us that we are not in the clear. On the contrary, one slight miss step and a new COVID-19 "hot spot" emerges on the map. For the vast majority of our "Planning to Reopen" series of blogs our main focus has been on sifting through the tsunami of information and sharing that which would best help the business owners of Commonwealth protect themselves, their employees, and their customers. We feel, now, it is time to pivot.
As the state, communities and families struggle to understand what this all means and the best, safest, course of action to take we will be doing our best to share with our communities the most up-to-date guidance regarding best practices to reopen our school systems as safely as possible.
According to the CDC, in lieu of a vaccine or therapeutic drug, mitigation is the greatest weapon communities can wield to slow the spread of a virus with pandemic potential such as COVID-19. COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by a new, (and some data suggests evolving) coronavirus.
The following highlights CDC's recommended goals and guiding principles to be considered when formulating our plans to reopen our schools.
NOTE:COVID-19 is highly transmissible. Individuals should follow these universal precautions regardless of the extent of mitigation needed:
The goal of community mitigation is to slow the potential spread of COVID-19 and to protect all individuals, especially those at increased risk for severe illness, while minimizing the negative impacts of these strategies.
Implementation is based on:
Emphasizing individual responsibility for implementing recommended personal-level actions
Minimizing disruptions to daily life to the extent possible and ensuring access to health care and other essential services.
Guiding principles
Each community is unique. Appropriate mitigation strategies should be based on the best available data. Decision making will vary based on the level of community transmission and local circumstances.
No one strategy is sufficient.
Protecting the public’s health is paramount
Until broad-scale testing is widely implemented or we have a more comprehensive and precise measure of disease burden, states and communities should assume some community transmission or spread is occurring
Mitigation strategies should be feasible, practical, and acceptable; they should be tailored to the needs of each community and implemented in a manner that minimizes both morbidity and mortality from COVID-19 and does not create or exacerbate any health disparities.
Community mitigation efforts must aim to reduce the rate at which someone infected comes in contact with someone not infected, or reduce the probability of infection if there is contact.
The characteristics of the community and its population, health system and public health capacity, and the local capacity to implement strategies are important when determining community mitigation strategies.
As communities adjust mitigation strategies, they should ensure that the healthcare system capacity will not be exceeded.
Public health system capacity relies on detecting, testing, contact tracing, and isolating those who are or might be sick, or have been exposed to known or suspected COVID-19 cases; it is important to stop broader community transmission and prevent communities from having to implement or strengthen further community mitigation efforts.
Progressively evaluate mitigation strategies to scaled up or down, depending on the evolving local situation, and what is feasible, practical, and legal in a jurisdiction.
Any signs of a cluster of new cases or a reemergence of broader community transmission should result in a re-evaluation of community mitigation strategies and a decision on whether and how mitigation might need to change.
Presuming a community is not sheltering-in-place cross-cutting community mitigation strategies can be organized into the following categories:
promoting behaviors that prevent spread
maintaining healthy environments
maintaining healthy operations
preparing for when someone gets sick.
Community mitigation strategies should be layered upon one another and used at the same time—with several layers of safeguards to reduce the spread of disease and lower the risk of another spike in cases and deaths.
Communities need to decide the level of risk that is acceptable and make informed choices about implementing mitigation plans accordingly.
Individuals make choices about following the behavioral practices that are recommended. Compliance (and NonCompliance) to community mitigation decisions must be monitored closely as they will have a direct impact the overall success of any mitigation plan to slow the spread of COVID-19.
Travel patterns within and between jurisdictions will impact efforts to reduce community transmission. Coordination across state and local jurisdictions is critical – especially between jurisdictions with different levels of community transmission.
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
This has been an unprecedented year. Wile things have improved as emergency orders have loosened, the news cycle constantly reminds us that we are not in the clear. On the contrary, one slight miss step and a new COVID-19 "hot spot" emerges on the map. For the vast majority of our "Planning to Reopen" series of blogs our main focus has been on sifting through the tsunami of information and sharing that which would best help the business owners of Commonwealth protect themselves, their employees, and their customers. We feel, now, it is time to pivot.
Six months ago we were forced to do the unthinkable, close our school systems with the hope that, come fall, we would be able to reopen them and return to our normal. We now know that is not a viable option.
As the state, communities and families struggle to understand what this all means and the best, safest, course of action to take we will be doing our best to share with our communities the most up-to-date guidance regarding best practices to reopen our school systems as safely as possible.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
Below we have provided excerpts from the CDC's white paper weighing the importance of reopening our schools versus the risks of doing so. To view the complete paper, click here.
According to the CDC, it is important to consider the full spectrum of benefits and risks of both in-person and virtual learning options.
Known Physical Risks
The best available evidence indicates if children become infected:
They are far less likely to suffer severe symptoms
Death rates among school-aged children are much lower than among adults
Known Non-Physical Risks
At the same time, the harms attributed to closed schools on the social, emotional, and behavioral health, economic well-being, and academic achievement of children, in both the short- and long-term, are well-known and significant.
The in-person school environment does the following:
Provides educational instruction
Supports the development of social and emotional skills
Creates a safe environment for learning
Addresses nutritional needs
Facilitates physical activity
Known Inequities
Further, the lack of in-person educational options disproportionately harms low-income and minority children and those living with disabilities.
COVID-19 and Children
The best available evidence indicates that COVID-19 poses relatively low risks to school-aged children. Children appear to be at lower risk for contracting COVID-19 compared to adults.
As of July 17, 2020, the United States reported that children and adolescents under 18 years old account for:
Less than 7 percent of COVID-19 cases
Less than 0.1 percent of COVID-19-related deaths
Current data collected from scientific studies and international studies suggests the rate of infection among younger school children, and from students to teachers, has been low, especially when proper precautions are followed. Additionally, there have also been few reports of children being the primary source of COVID-19 transmission among family members which is consistent with data from both virus and antibody testing. This data suggesting that children are not the primary drivers of COVID-19 spread in schools or in the community.
Educational Instruction
Extended school closure can lead to severe learning loss, particularly for students with heightened behavioral needs. We know that, for many students, long breaks from in-person education are harmful to the learning process. Many studies document the adverse effects summer breaks have on students academic progress, this is known as “summer slide.”
The Unfortunate Reality of Remote Learning
Disparities in educational outcomes caused by school closures are a particular concern for low-income and minority students and students with disabilities. Many low-income families do not have the capacity to facilitate distance learning (e.g. limited or no computer access, limited or no internet access), and may have to rely on school-based services that support their child’s academic success. Data showed that through late April, student progress in math decreased by about half, with the negative impact more pronounced in low-income communities.
Furthermore remote learning makes absorbing information more difficult for students with disabilities, developmental delays, or other cognitive disabilities. In particular, students who:
Hard of hearing
Deaf
Have low vision
Blind
ADHD (and other learning disorders)
As well as other physical and mental disabilities
Social and Emotional Skill Development
In addition to a structure for learning, schools provide a stable and secure environment for developing social skills and peer relationships, particularly the development of language, communication, social, emotional, and interpersonal skills.
In an in-person school environment, children more easily learn how to develop and maintain friendships, how to behave in groups, and how to interact and form relationships with people outside of their family. In school, students are also able to access support systems needed to recognize and manage emotions, set and achieve positive goals, appreciate others’ perspectives, and make responsible decisions. Such routine in-person contacts provide opportunities to facilitate social-emotional development that are difficult, if not impossible, to replicate through distance learning.
Additionally, extended closures can be harmful to children’s mental health and can increase the likelihood of:
Lower levels of depression
Thoughts about suicide
Social anxiety
Sexual activity
Lower levels of self-esteem
Increased likelihood of substance use
Negative Impacts of Prolonged Quarantine
Studies have conducted on pandemics around the world suggest a strong association between length of quarantine and:
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
Avoidance behavior
Anger
Mental Health and Social Services
In-person schooling provides children with access to a variety of mental health and social services, including speech language therapy, and physical or occupational therapy to help the physical, psychological, and academic well-being of the child. School counselors are trained in the mental health needs of children and youth and can recognize signs of trauma that primary caregivers are less able to see because they themselves are experiencing the same family stresses.
Without in-person schooling, many children can lose access to these important services. For those individuals who have a diagnosable mental, behavioral or emotional condition that substantially interferes with or limits their social functioning, schools play an integral role in linking them to care and necessary support services.
For children with intellectual or physical disabilities, nearly all therapies and services are received through schools. These vital services are difficult to provide through distance learning models. As a result, more children with disabilities have received few to no services while schools have been closed.
Safety
Extended school closures deprive children who live in unsafe homes and neighborhoods of an important layer of protection from neglect as well as physical, sexual, and emotional maltreatment and abuse.
Nutrition
Schools are essential to meeting the nutritional needs of children with many consuming up to half their daily calories at school. Nationwide more than 30 million children participate in the National School Lunch Program and nearly 15 million participate in the School Breakfast Program. While schools have implemented strategies to continue meal services during this pandemic the sad reality is that these strategies are not sustainable in the long term.
Physical Activity
Many children may not be sufficiently physically active outside of the context of in-school physical education (PE) and other school-based activities. With schools closed, children may not have sufficient opportunities to participate in organized and safe physical activities such as those existing within the within our school systems, such as:
Recess
Classroom engagements
Safe, organized sports
After school programs
Conclusion
Schools provide safe, supportive learning environments and critical services for students and families that, studies have shown, can not be equitably duplicated with remote learning. The best available evidence from countries that have opened schools indicates that, in areas with low community transmission, COVID-19 poses low risks to school-aged children and suggests that children are unlikely to be major drivers of the spread of the virus.
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols for reopening our schools we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for the new school year.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines to ensure a safe environment for our children. For those communities, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your schools, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal daily cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Phase 3, Construction, Part 4
As we continue to execute Phase 3 of Governor Charlie Baker'sadministration's plan to reopenthe state of Massachusetts for business it is paramount that we remain steadfast in our resolve to reduce the risk of spreading COVID-19 when and wherever possible. The following outlines the workplace safety standards pertaining worker infection protocol, identification of exposure, notification, quarantine and sanitation requirements and returning to work for Construction Businesses.
IMPORTANT NOTE:The following guidance were updated based on the new COVID-19 Travel Order (July 24):
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
These standards are minimum requirements only and are not exclusive or exhaustive. The public health data for disease prevention upon which these guidelines are based can and does change frequently, it is the responsibility of each Construction Business owner to stay abreast of any updates to these requirements.
Do all you can to maintain your good health by: getting adequate sleep; eating a balanced, healthy diet, avoid alcohol; and consume plenty of fluids. Please Note: This document is not intended to replace any formalized procedures currently in place with the General Contractor.
Where these guidance does not meet or exceed the standards put forth by the General Contractor, everyone shall abide by the most stringent procedure available.
A site-specific COVID-19 Officer (who may also be the Health and Safety Officer) shall be designated for every site. The Contractor’s site specific project COVID-19 Officer shall submit a written daily report to the Owner’s Representative. The COVID-19 Officer shall certify that the contractor and all subcontractors are in full compliance with these guidelines.
Any issue of non-compliance with these guidelines shall be a basis for the suspension of work. The contractor will be required to submit a corrective action plan detailing each issue of non-conformance and a plan to rectify the issue(s). The contractor will not be allowed to resume work until the plan is approved by the Owner. Any additional issues of non-conformance may be subject to action against the contractor's prequalification and certification status.
Worker Infection Protocol
It is the responsibility of approved construction business owners, and/or general contractors to have the following protocols in place and for staff and workers to adhere to the following at all times:
Zero tolerance for sick workers reporting to work.
Employees should be instructed that even those with mild symptoms of respiratory infection (cough, shortness of breath, sore throat) or fever should stay off work.
Contractors shall take immediate steps to limit infections at the job site in the event that a worker discovered to have tested positive for COVID-19 or has COVID-19 related symptoms.
Although it is understood that contractors are enforcing Work Site Risk Prevention Practices including social distancing rules and use of PPE, consistent with guidelines it is also recognized that there may be occasions where someone who has tested positive for COVID-19 or who has COVID-19 symptoms has been present in a work area. Prompt identification and isolation of potentially infectious individuals is a critical step in protecting workers, vendors, visitors, and others at a worksite.
Identification of Exposure
It is the responsibility of approved construction business owners, and/or general contractors to have the following protocols in place and for staff and workers to adhere to the following at all times:
The Business owner or Contractor shall direct workers with COVID-19 related symptoms to leave the jobsite immediately and contact their healthcare provider. The Massachusetts Department of Health (DPH) or a local board 8 of health will make appropriate notifications to those who had direct prolonged contact with the COVID19 positive workers.
The business owner or Contractor shall work with the local board of health to identify any potential job site exposures, including:
Other workers, vendors, inspectors, or visitors to the work site with close contact to the individual
Work areas such as supply cabinets and designated work stations or rooms
Work tools and equipment
Common areas such as break rooms and tables, vending machines, and sanitary facilities
Notification and Quarantine Requirements
It is the responsibility of approved construction business owners, and/or general contractors to have the following protocols in place:
As provided by law, the identity of the worker must be kept confidential
Upon learning of an infection, the contractor must immediately notify the designated COVID-19 safety officer, the site safety officer, and the owner
Sanitation Requirements
It is the responsibility of approved construction business owners, and/or general contractors to have the following protocols in place:
After a worker with COVID-19 related symptoms has been asked to leave the job site, the contractor shall take immediate steps to sanitize common areas and direct work places. This includes all on-site bathrooms facilities, any break facilities, and any other common areas on the job site that may have been in close contact with the infected worker.
Sanitation will be conducted with personnel, equipment, and material approved for COVID-19 sanitization.
Identified areas should remain isolated from workers until sanitation process has been completed and area is deemed safe for use.
Returning to Work
It is the responsibility of approved construction business owners, and/or general contractors to have the following protocols in place:
All impacted workers should follow CDC and DPH recommended steps concerning return to work. Workers who are considered close contacts to a COVID-19 case by public health authorities should not return for 14 days and are subject quarantine by public health.
Workers who leave during the work day due to COVID-19 symptoms and develop COVID-19 as confirmed by laboratory testing or diagnosis by a healthcare provider shall not return to the site until either released from isolation by healthcare provider or public health official.
In All Cases
It is the responsibility of approved construction business owners, and/or general contractors to have the following protocols in place:
Keep all employee names confidential as required by law
Other employees may be sent home while a workspace is being cleaned but will return to work after cleaning unless advised otherwise by a health care provider
Other employees should be asked to contact their health provider if they have any questions
Remind other employees to continue to practice proper sanitation and monitor for flu like symptoms
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for reopening. Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every business has access to the resources necessary to meet these strict guidelines. For those businesses, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal, everyday cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Phase 3, Construction, Part 3
As we continue to execute Phase 3 of Governor Charlie Baker'sadministration's plan to reopenthe state of Massachusetts for business it is paramount that we remain steadfast in our resolve to reduce the risk of spreading COVID-19 when and wherever possible. The following outlines the workplace safety standards pertaining to wash stations, limiting exposure to COVID-19, and working in 1-3 family residences for Construction Businesses.
IMPORTANT NOTE:The following guidance were updated based on the new COVID-19 Travel Order (July 24):
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
These standards are minimum requirements only and are not exclusive or exhaustive. The public health data for disease prevention upon which these guidelines are based can and does change frequently, it is the responsibility of each Construction Business owner to stay abreast of any updates to these requirements.
Do all you can to maintain your good health by: getting adequate sleep; eating a balanced, healthy diet, avoid alcohol; and consume plenty of fluids. Please Note: This document is not intended to replace any formalized procedures currently in place with the General Contractor.
Where these guidance does not meet or exceed the standards put forth by the General Contractor, everyone shall abide by the most stringent procedure available.
A site-specific COVID-19 Officer (who may also be the Health and Safety Officer) shall be designated for every site. The Contractor’s site specific project COVID-19 Officer shall submit a written daily report to the Owner’s Representative. The COVID-19 Officer shall certify that the contractor and all subcontractors are in full compliance with these guidelines.
Any issue of non-compliance with these guidelines shall be a basis for the suspension of work. The contractor will be required to submit a corrective action plan detailing each issue of non-conformance and a plan to rectify the issue(s). The contractor will not be allowed to resume work until the plan is approved by the Owner. Any additional issues of non-conformance may be subject to action against the contractor's prequalification and certification status.
Wash Stations
It is the responsibility of approved construction business owners, and/or general contractors to have the following protocols in place and for staff and workers to adhere to the following at all times:
All site-specific projects with outside construction sites without ready access to an indoor bathroom MUST install Wash Stations.
Install hand wash stations with hot water, if possible, and soap at fire hydrants or other water sources to be used for frequent handwashing for all onsite employees
All onsite workers must help to maintain and keep stations clean
If a worker notices soap or towels are running low or out, immediately notify supervisors
Garbage barrels will be placed next to the hand wash station for disposal of tissues / towels
Limiting Exposures
It is the responsibility of approved construction business owners, and/or general contractors to have the following protocols in place and for staff and workers to adhere to the following at all times:
Workers should follow the General On-the-Job Guidance to Prevent Exposure & Limit the Transmission of the Virus of the COVID-19 Employee Health, protection, guidance and prevention guide.
In addition, Contractors should advise workers of best practice to limit exposures off the construction site.
When leaving a construction site for breaks, lunch, or other reasons are required to wash hands with soap for at least 20 seconds or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% ethanol or 70% isopropanol before leaving the site and must maintain social distancing and wear face coverings if traveling to other locations off the construction site. Frequent use of handwashing or alcohol-based 8 hand sanitizers should be encouraged and handwashing facilities and / or alcohol-based hand sanitizers should be made readily available at work sites.
Construction and Remodeling in 1-3 Family Residences
For construction and remodeling work in 1-3 family residential constructions, the following modifications apply:
The contractor does not need to designate a site-specific COVID-19 Officer (who may also be the Health and Safety Officer) for every site if there are 5 or less workers at the site at any given time. Instead, the contractor may designate a COVID-19 Officer for all such small sites in a given city or town who shall be in daily contact with each of the sites to ensure that the contractor and all subcontractors are in full compliance with this safety guidance. This COVID-19 safety officer shall prepare a written daily report covering all the small sites in each city or town and make a copy of that report available to a municipal official and / or the owner of the residence upon request
If the project has restroom facilities / porta-potties they must be cleaned and handwashing stations must be provided with soap, hand sanitizer and paper towels. For outside construction sites without ready access to an indoor bathroom, the contractors must either install Wash Stations with hot water, if possible, and soap at fire hydrants or other water sources to be used for frequent handwashing for all onsite employees or provide each employee and subcontractor with a sufficient quantity of hand sanitizer to allow for frequent handwashing
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for reopening. Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every business has access to the resources necessary to meet these strict guidelines. For those businesses, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal, everyday cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Phase 3, Construction, Part 2
As we continue to execute Phase 3 of Governor Charlie Baker'sadministration's plan to reopenthe state of Massachusetts for business it is paramount that we remain steadfast in our resolve to reduce the risk of spreading COVID-19 when and wherever possible. The following outlines the workplace safety standards pertaining to guidance to prevent exposure & limit the transmission of the COVID-19 and work site risk prevention practices for Construction Businesses.
IMPORTANT NOTE:The following guidance were updated based on the new COVID-19 Travel Order (July 24):
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
These standards are minimum requirements only and are not exclusive or exhaustive. The public health data for disease prevention upon which these guidelines are based can and does change frequently, it is the responsibility of each Construction Business owner to stay abreast of any updates to these requirements.
Guidance to Prevent Exposure and Limit Transmission
It is the responsibility of approved construction business owners to have the following protocols in place and for staff to adhere to the following at all times:
No handshaking
Wash hands often with soap for at least 20 seconds or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% ethanol or 70% isopropanol
Contractor and State Agency Field Offices are locked down to all but authorized personnel
Each jobsite should develop cleaning and decontamination procedures that are posted and shared. These Procedures must cover all areas including trailers, gates, equipment, vehicles, etc. and shall be posted at all entry points to the sites, and throughout the project site.
A "No Congregation" policy is in effect, individuals must implement social distancing by maintaining a minimum distance of 6-feet from other individuals
Avoid face to face meetings – critical situations requiring in-person discussion must follow social distancing
Conduct all meetings via conference calls, if possible.
Do not convene meetings of more than 10 people. Recommend use of cell phones, texting, web meeting sites and conference calls for project discussion
All individual work crew meetings / tailgate talks should be held outside and follow social distancing
Please keep all crews a minimum of 6 feet apart at all times to eliminate the potential of cross contamination
At each job briefing / tool box talk, employees are asked if they are experiencing any symptoms, and are sent home if they are
Each jobsite should have laminated COVID-19 safety guidelines and handwashing instructions
All restroom facilities / porta-potties should be cleaned and handwashing stations must be provided with soap, hand sanitizer and paper towels
All surfaces should be regularly cleaned, including surfaces, door handles, laptops, etc.
All common areas and meeting areas are to be regularly cleaned and disinfected at least once a day but preferably twice a day
Be sure to use your own water bottle, and do not share
To avoid external contamination, we recommend everyone bring food from home
Please maintain Social Distancing separation during breaks and lunch
Cover coughing or sneezing with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash and wash hands, if no tissue is available then cough into your elbow
Avoid touching eyes, nose, and mouth with your hands
To avoid sharing germs, please clean up after Yourself. DO NOT make others responsible for moving, unpacking and packing up your personal belongings
For guidance on business-sponsored travel, refer to the Commonwealth's current out-of-state travel order.
Employers are strongly discouraged from requiring or allowing business-related travel to destinations other than those appearing on the Department of Public Health’s list of COVID-19 lower risk States.
Employers that permit employer-paid or - reimbursed travel to those States should take measures to ensure employees comply with this order.
Employers are also urged to strongly discourage their employees from taking leisure travel to destinations not included on the list of COVID-19 lower-risk States
If you or a family member is feeling ill, stay home!
Work Site Risk Prevention Practices
It is the responsibility of approved construction business owners to have the following protocols in place and for staff to adhere to the following at all times:
At the start of each shift, confirm with all employees that they are healthy
We will have a 100% glove policy from today going forward.
All construction workers will be required to wear cut-resistant gloves or the equivalent
Use of eye protection (safety goggles / face shields) is recommended
In work conditions where required social distancing is impossible to achieve affected employees shall be supplied PPE including as appropriate a standard face mask, gloves, and eye protection
All employees should drive to work site / parking area in a single occupant vehicle. Contractors / State staff should not ride together in the same vehicle
When entering a machine or vehicle which you are not sure you were the last person to enter, make sure that you wipe down the interior and door handles with disinfectant prior to entry
In instances where it is possible, workers should maintain separation of 6 feet from each other per CDC guidelines
Multi person activities will be limited where feasible (two person lifting activities)
Large gathering places on the site such as shacks and break areas will be eliminated and instead small break areas will be used with seating limited to ensure social distancing.
Contact the cleaning person for your office trailer or office space and ensure they have proper COVID- 19 sanitation processes.
Increase their cleaning visits to daily
Clean all high contact surfaces a minimum of twice a day in order to minimize the spread of germs in areas that people touch frequently. This includes but is not limited to desks, laptops and vehicles
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for reopening. Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every business has access to the resources necessary to meet these strict guidelines. For those businesses, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal, everyday cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
As we continue to execute Phase 3 of Governor Charlie Baker'sadministration's plan to reopenthe state of Massachusetts for business it is paramount that we remain steadfast in our resolve to reduce the risk of spreading COVID-19 when and wherever possible. The following outlines the workplace safety standards pertaining to The following workplace specific safety standards are organized around four distinct categories covering enforcement and oversight and employee health for Construction Businesses.
IMPORTANT NOTE:The following guidance were updated based on the new COVID-19 Travel Order (July 24):
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
These standards are minimum requirements only and are not exclusive or exhaustive. The public health data for disease prevention upon which these guidelines are based can and does change frequently, it is the responsibility of each Construction Business owner to stay abreast of any updates to these requirements.
It is the responsibility of approved construction business owners to have the following protocols in place and for staff to adhere to the following at all times:
A site-specific COVID-19 Officer (who may also be the Health and Safety Officer) shall be designated for every site except as provided below for construction and remodeling in 1-3 family residences
Except as provided below for construction and remodeling in 1-3 family residences, the Contractor’s site-specific project COVID-19 Officer shall submit a written daily report to the Owner's Representative. The COVID-19 Officer shall certify that the contractor and all subcontractors are in full compliance with sections B to D, inclusive (the COVID-19 Construction Safety Guidance)
For large, complicated construction projects a city or town may additionally require the Owner to develop and submit a site-specific risk analysis and enhanced COVID-19 safety plan, which may include additional requirements to address risks specific to the project or type of project. The city or town shall review and approve such plan and may require such projects to pause construction until such a risk analysis and plan is submitted and approved. Once such an enhanced COVID-19 safety plan is approved, a violation of the plan shall be treated the same as a violation of the COVID-19 Construction Safety Guidance
For all projects undertaken, managed or funded by a state agency or authority there shall be joint enforcement responsibility between the project’s public Owner and the city or town where the project is located. The Owner of a public project has the lead responsibility for compliance and enforcement including frequent on-site inspections by an employee or contractor of the state agency or authority who is familiar with the COVID-19 Construction Safety Guidance and is authorized to enforce that guidance and shut down work at the site if violations are found. The Owner of the project is required to notify the municipality where the work is taking place whenever a site is shut down or of any violations of the COVID-19 Construction Safety Guidance and the resulting corrective action plan, as well as to provide copies of the COVID-19 Officer’s written daily reports upon request. While the public Owner has the lead responsibility for enforcement, cities and towns retain the authority to take enforcement action against public projects found not in compliance with the COVID-19 Construction Safety Guidance, including the authority to order the project to shut down until a corrective action plan is developed, approved and implemented
Cities and towns are authorized to enforce the COVID-19 Construction Safety Guidance using their public health staff, building inspectors or any other appropriate official or contractor
Cities and towns may enforce the safety and distance protocols including, if multiple violations are found, requiring the Owner and / or Contractor to safely secure the site and pause construction activities until a corrective action plan is prepared, submitted and approved by the city or town
The city or town may require the Owner of a large, complicated private project to pay for an independent, third party inspector or inspection firm (or to pay into a pool to pay for such inspections). The third party inspector shall be accountable solely to the city or town and shall be responsible for enforcement on behalf of the city or town. A city or town may require private projects to pause construction until such a third-party inspector has been secured
Employee Health Protection – ZERO TOLERANCE
It is the responsibility of approved construction business owners and managing staff to implement a ZERO TOLERANCE FOR SICK WORKERS at all times.
Owners and managing staff must make employees aware that if they have any signs of illness they must stay home
Owners and managing staff must make employees aware that if they become ill or feel sick after arriving at work they must go home immediately
Owners must mandate to ALL employees, IF YOU SEE SOMEONE SICK, SEND THEM HOME
All employees, if you are exhibiting any of the symptoms below, you are to report this to your supervisor (via phone, text or email) right away, and head home from the job site or stay home if already there
All employees, ff you notice a co-worker showing signs or complaining about such symptoms, he or she should be directed to their supervisor (via phone, text or email) and asked to leave the project site immediately COVID-19 Typical Symptoms:
Fever
Cough
Shortness of Breath
Sore Throat
Self-certify Prior to Shift
Prior to starting a shift, it is the responsibility of all approved construction business employees to self-certify to their supervisor that they:
Have no signs of a fever or a measured temperature above 100.3 degrees or greater, a cough or trouble breathing within the past 24 hours
Have not had "close contact" with an individual diagnosed with COVID-19. “Close contact” means living in the same household as a person who has tested positive for COVID-19, caring for a person who has tested positive for COVID-19, being within 6 feet of a person who has tested positive for COVID-19 for about 15 minutes, or coming in direct contact with secretions (e.g., sharing utensils, being coughed on) from a person who has tested positive for COVID-19, while that person was symptomatic
Have not been asked to self-isolate or quarantine by their doctor or a local public health official
Employees exhibiting symptoms or unable to self-certify should be directed to leave the work site and seek medical attention and applicable testing by their health care provider. They are not to return to the work site until cleared by a medical professional.
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for reopening. Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every business has access to the resources necessary to meet these strict guidelines. For those businesses, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal, everyday cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
The immediate damage to your Hopkinton, MA commercial or residential property from a storm is evident in broken windows, flooded rooms, soaked carpets, and waterlogged furniture and personal items. Most property owners understand the need to remediate visible damage after a flood. However, some might not be aware that storm damage can have longer-lasting effects that they might not even notice, to begin with.
What are the long-term effects of flood damage?
Storm damage has several unpleasant long-term effects:
Undetected (and therefore untreated) moisture can lead to unseen structural damage. Even though the visible water has been removed moisture has already seeped into inconspicuous areas such as wooden beams or floors. If this hidden moisture is left untreated, it can cause warping and rotting of structural elements such as wood and drywall.
Flood damage often leaves behind unpleasant odors. Even after removal of the standing water property owners might notice lingering faint damp odors. Such smells are not only unpleasant but can also indicate an unresolved mold issue.
Hidden moisture damage can lead to mold growth throughout your property. Mold can be harmful to your health and the health of your family.
When attempting to sell your property any signs of unremediated storm damage could:
Make it difficult to sell the property
Force you to sell it at a devalued price
How to mitigate the long-term effects?
The best way to avoid long-term effects after storm damage is have your property and its contents remediated by certified professionals. The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are trained to assess both the visible damage and the potential for hidden damage in your commercial or residential property. Our teams use state-of-the-art, professional grade equipment and scientifically proven techniques to dry and restore your home thoroughly. When storm damage devistates your commercial or residential property call the experts at SERVPRO of Framingham, (508) 370-4400. We will make it "Like it never even happened."
Planning To Reopen - Phase 3, Close Contact Personal Services, Part 2
As we continue to execute Phase 3 of Governor Charlie Baker'sadministration's plan to reopenthe state of Massachusetts for business it is paramount that we remain steadfast in our resolve to reduce the risk of spreading COVID-19 when and wherever possible. The following outlines the workplace safety standards pertaining to The following workplace specific safety standards are organized around four distinct categories covering staffing and operations, and cleaning and disinfecting for Close Contact Personal Services Businesses.
IMPORTANT NOTE:Barber Shops and Hair Salons, originally authorized to open in Phase 1 of the Re-Opening Plan, are now subject to these workplace safety standards for Close Contact Personal Services. Also, Personal Trainers have their own category of guidelines to follow.
Close Contact Personal Services are defined as any personal service typically delivered through close physical contact with the customer, including but not limited to:
hair salons and barber shops; as permitted to open in Phase 1 of the Re-Opening Plan
hair removal services; including laser services, depilatory salons, waxing services, threading, and electrolysis services
massage, body treatments, eastern treatment, energy therapies and other body work therapies
skin care services; including peels, facials, serums, Botox and filler
nail care services; including nail salons
other hair services; including hair replacement services, scalp treating services
makeup salons
makeup application services
tanning salons; including other businesses that provide spray tanning and tanning beds;
tattoo, piercing, and body art services Indoor and outdoor event spaces
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
These standards are minimum requirements only and are not exclusive or exhaustive. The public health data for disease prevention upon which these guidelines are based can and does change frequently, it is the responsibility of each Close Contact Personal Service Business owner to stay abreast of any updates to these requirements.
It is the responsibility of approved close contact personal services business owners and staff to adhere to the following at all times:
Provide training to workers on up-to-date safety information and precautions including hygiene and other measures aimed at reducing disease transmission, including:
Social distancing, hand-washing, proper use of face coverings
Self-screening at home, including temperature and symptom checks
Reinforcing that staff should not come to work if sick
When to seek medical attention if symptoms become severe
Which underlying health conditions may make individuals more susceptible to contracting and suffering from a severe case of the virus
Facilities must screen workers at each shift by ensuring the following:
Worker is not experiencing any symptoms such as fever (100.0 and above) or chills, cough, shortness of breath, sore throat, fatigue, headache, muscle/body aches, runny nose/congestion, new loss of taste or smell, or nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
Worker has not had “close contact” with an individual diagnosed with COVID-19. “Close contact” means living in the same household as a person who has tested positive for COVID-19, caring for a person who has tested positive for COVID-19, being within 6 feet of a person who has tested positive for COVID-19 for 15 minutes or more, or coming in direct contact with secretions (e.g., sharing utensils, being coughed on) from a person who has tested positive for COVID-19, while that person was symptomatic
Worker has not been asked to self-isolate or quarantine by their doctor or a local public health official
Workers who fail to meet the above criteria must be sent home
Adjust workplace hours and shifts (working teams with different schedules or staggered arrival / departure) to minimize contact across workers and reduce congestion
Require customers to make an appointment in advance to receive service
Close waiting areas and ask customers to wait outside or in cars until it is time for their appointment
Maintain a log of workers and customers to support potential contact tracing (name, date, time, contact information)
Remove non-essential amenities (e.g., magazines, customer-facing water or coffee, coat rooms, etc.)
Workers may not appear for work if feeling ill
Workers who are who are at high risk from COVID-19 according to the Centers for Disease Control should be encouraged to stay home or should have work assignments shifted to reduce contact with customers and co-workers
Workers are strongly encouraged to self-identify symptoms or any close contact to a known or suspected COVID-19 case to the employer 4
Encourage workers who test positive for COVID-19 to disclose to the workplace employer for purposes of cleaning / disinfecting and contact tracing.
If the employer is notified of a positive case at the workplace, the employer shall notify the local Board of Health (LBOH) in the city or town where the workplace is located and assist the LBOH as reasonably requested to advise likely contacts to isolate and self-quarantine. Testing of other workers may be recommended consistent with guidance and / or at the request of the LBOH
Businesses should maintain operating hours that allow for on-going off-hour sanitation and cleaning
Limit visitors and service providers on site; shipping and deliveries should be completed in designated areas
Limit employee movement to discrete work zones to minimize overlap where possible
Cleaning and Disinfecting
It is the responsibility of approved close contact personal services business owners and staff to adhere to the following at all times:
Clean commonly touched surfaces in restrooms (e.g., toilet seats, doorknobs, stall handles, sinks, paper towel dispensers, soap dispensers) frequently and in accordance with CDC guidelines
Conduct frequent cleaning and disinfection of site (at least daily, and more frequently if feasible)
Keep cleaning logs that include date, time, and scope of cleaning
Conduct frequent disinfecting of heavily transited areas and high-touch surfaces (e.g., doorknobs, handrails, headrests, armrests, etc.)
In the event of a positive case of a worker, patron or vendor shut down site and wait 24 hours before cleaning and disinfecting of the workplace in accordance with current CDC guidelines
Disinfect or replace tools, implements and surfaces between customers (e.g., tables, finger bowls, chairs and headrests, spatulas, clippers, spacers, styling tools)
If tools cannot be disinfected (i.e., porous tools such as nail files, buffers, drill bits, etc.), they must be discarded after use
Disinfect chair, table, and/or workstation between customers or use disposable plastic coverings for each customer, observing contact time on label for disinfectant to work properly
Launder all linens, towel drapes and smocks in hot soapy water and dry completely regularly and between each use
Open windows and doors to increase airflow where possible
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for reopening. Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every business has access to the resources necessary to meet these strict guidelines. For those businesses, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal, everyday cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Phase 3, Close Contact Personal Services
As we continue to execute Phase 3 of Governor Charlie Baker'sadministration's plan to reopenthe state of Massachusetts for business it is paramount that we remain steadfast in our resolve to reduce the risk of spreading COVID-19 when and wherever possible. The following outlines the workplace safety standards pertaining to social distancing and hygiene protocols for Close Contact Personal Services Businesses.
IMPORTANT NOTE:Barber Shops and Hair Salons, originally authorized to open in Phase 1 of the Re-Opening Plan, are now subject to these workplace safety standards for Close Contact Personal Services. Also, Personal Trainers have their own category of guidelines to follow.
Close Contact Personal Services are defined as any personal service typically delivered through close physical contact with the customer, including but not limited to:
hair salons and barber shops; as permitted to open in Phase 1 of the Re-Opening Plan
hair removal services; including laser services, depilatory salons, waxing services, threading, and electrolysis services
massage, body treatments, eastern treatment, energy therapies and other body work therapies
skin care services; including peels, facials, serums, Botox and filler
nail care services; including nail salons
other hair services; including hair replacement services, scalp treating services
makeup salons
makeup application services
tanning salons; including other businesses that provide spray tanning and tanning beds;
tattoo, piercing, and body art services Indoor and outdoor event spaces
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
These standards are minimum requirements only and are not exclusive or exhaustive. The public health data for disease prevention upon which these guidelines are based can and does change frequently, it is the responsibility of each Close Contact Personal Service Business owner to stay abreast of any updates to these requirements.
It is the responsibility of approved close contact personal services business owners and staff to adhere to the following at all times:
Ensure separation of 6 feet or more between individuals where possible:
Close or reconfigure common spaces and high density areas where workers and patrons are likely to congregate (e.g., break rooms and eating areas for workers; lobbies and workstations for customers) to allow social distancing
Arrange workstations so work areas are spaced out at least 6 feet apart
Physical partitions must separate workstations that cannot be spaced out (partitions must be at least 6 feet in height)
Install physical barriers for checkout stations where possible, otherwise maintain 6 feet distance where not possible
Install visual social distancing markers to encourage customers to remain 6 feet apart (e.g., checkout lines, lines to use the restroom)
Mark rooms and hallways to indicate 6 feet separation
Stagger lunch and break times for workers, regulate the maximum number of people in one place, and ensure at least 6 feet of physical distancing
Require face coverings for all customers and workers, except where an individual is unable to wear a face covering due to a medical condition or disability
Establish directional pathways to manage visitor flow for foot traffic, to minimize contact (e.g., one-way entrance and exit to rooms, one-way pathways)
Post clearly visible signage regarding these policies
Require workers to wear gloves, gowns or smocks, and prescription glasses, safety glasses or goggles
Contactless payment methods are encouraged
Encourage curbside pickup or delivery of any retail items purchased by customers not already on the premises for a service appointment, and follow the Retail Business guidance for customers seeking retail purchases instead of or in addition to personal services
No guests should accompany the customer during the personal service except for persons serving as caretakers or guardians
Caretakers or guardians should observe all other requirements of customers, including wearing a face covering and maintaining 6 feet of separation from other persons present
Hygiene Protocols
It is the responsibility of approved close contact personal services business owners and staff to adhere to the following at all times:
Ensure access to handwashing facilities on site, including soap and running water, and allow enough break time for workers to wash hands frequently; alcohol-based hand sanitizers with at least 60% alcohol may be used as an alternative
Supply workers at workplace location with adequate cleaning products (e.g., sanitizer, disinfecting wipes, disinfectant)
Alcohol-based hand sanitizers with at least 60% alcohol should be made available at entrances and throughout floor areas for both workers and customers
Require glove changes and handwashing before and after each customer
Do not permit sharing of tools and supplies between workers (e.g., clippers, spacers, brushes, needles, etc.)
All tools must be cleaned between each customer
Workers should change into a clean smock or gown between each customer
Consider using disposable capes and smocks
Reusable capes, towels, gowns should be laundered between each use
Post visible signage throughout the site to remind workers and customers of hygiene and safety protocols
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for reopening. Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every business has access to the resources necessary to meet these strict guidelines. For those businesses, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal, everyday cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Phase 3, Indoor/Outdoor Event Businesses
As we continue to execute Phase 3 of Governor Charlie Baker'sadministration's plan to reopenthe state of Massachusetts for business it is paramount that we remain steadfast in our resolve to reduce the risk of spreading COVID-19 when and wherever possible. The following outlines the workplace safety standards pertaining to social distancing, hygiene protocols, staffing and operations, and cleaning and disinfecting for Indoor or Outdoor Event businesses (such as a wedding, party, etc.) that do not have sector specific guidelines to follow.
Examples of such indoor and outdoor event businesses include but are not limited to events held at:
Indoor and outdoor event spaces
Ballrooms
Private party rooms
Public places (like parks)
Large capacity event venues and activities organized to draw together large crowds must continue to remain closed until Phase IV.
This includes venues used for group or spectator sports, entertainment, business, and cultural events including:
Stadiums, arenas, and ballparks
Dance floors
Exhibition and convention halls
Street festivals and parades and agricultural festivals
Road races and other large, outdoor organized amateur or professional group athletic events
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
These standards are minimum requirements only and are not exclusive or exhaustive. The public health data for disease prevention upon which these guidelines are based can and does change frequently, it is the responsibility of each Indoor and Outdoor Event Business owner to stay abreast of any updates to these requirements.
It is the responsibility of approved indoor and outdoor events business owners and staff to adhere to the following at all times:
8 persons per 1,000 square feet of accessible, indoor floor space, and no more than 25 persons
Each operator of an outdoor event must monitor attendee entries and exits and limit occupancy at all times to:
25% of the facility’s maximum permitted occupancy as documented in its occupancy permit on record with the municipal building department or other municipal record holder, and no more than 100 persons
Facilities for which no permitted occupancy limitation is on record may allow 8 persons per 1,000 square feet of accessible space, and no more than 100 persons
Occupancy counts in all cases must include all attendees, staff, or other workers
Ensure separation of 6 feet or more between individuals where possible
Close or reconfigure worker common spaces and high density areas where workers are likely to congregate (e.g., break rooms, eating areas) to allow social distancing
Physical partitions must separate workstations that cannot be separated by 6 feet or more (partitions must extend to at least 6 feet in height)
For customer facing enterprises, install visual social distancing markers to encourage customers to remain 6 feet apart (e.g., lines to make payments, lines to use the restroom) and physical barriers for checkout stations where possible
Mark rooms and hallways to indicate 6 feet separation
Stagger lunch and break times for workers, regulate the maximum number of people in one place, and ensure at least 6 feet of physical distancing
Require face coverings for all workers and attendees, except where an individual is unable to wear a face covering due to a medical condition or disability
Hygiene Protocols
It is the responsibility of approved indoor and outdoor events business owners and staff to adhere to the following at all times:
Ensure access to handwashing facilities on site for both event attendees and workers, including soap and running water, and allow sufficient break time for workers to wash hands frequently; alcohol-based hand sanitizers with at least 60% alcohol may be used as an alternative
Supply workers at workplace location with adequate cleaning products (e.g., sanitizer, disinfecting wipes)
Post visible signage throughout the site to remind workers and event attendees of hygiene and safety protocols
Alcohol-based hand sanitizers with at least 60% alcohol should be made available at entrances and throughout floor areas for workers and attendees
Provide regular sanitation of high touch areas, such as workstations, equipment, screens, doorknobs, restrooms throughout work site
Staffing and Operations
It is the responsibility of approved indoor and outdoor events business owners and staff to adhere to the following at all times:
Provide training to workers on up-to-date safety information and precautions including hygiene and other measures aimed at reducing disease transmission, including:
Social distancing, hand-washing, proper use of face coverings
Self-screening at home, including temperature and symptom checks
Importance of not coming to work if ill
When to seek medical attention if symptoms become severe
Which underlying health conditions may make individuals more susceptible to contracting and suffering from a severe case of the virus
Adjust workplace hours and shifts (working teams with different schedules or staggered arrival / departure) to minimize contact across workers and reduce congestion
Workers may not come in to work if feeling ill
Encourage workers who are particularly vulnerable to COVID-19 according to the Centers for Disease Control to stay home or re-assign duties to reduce contact with other workers and attendees
Encourage workers to self-identify symptoms or any close contact to a known or suspected COVID-19 case to the employer
Encourage workers who test positive for COVID-19 to disclose to the workplace employer for purposes of cleaning / disinfecting and contact tracing.
If the employer is notified of a positive case at the workplace, the employer shall notify the local Board of Health (LBOH) in the city or town where the workplace is located and assist the LBOH as reasonably requested to advise likely contacts to isolate and self-quarantine.
Testing of other workers may be recommended consistent with guidance and / or at the request of the LBOH
Maintain a log of workers and attendees to support contact tracing (name, date, time, contact information) if needed
Whether seated or standing, attendees should not gather in groups of more than 6 people
Remove non-essential amenities (magazines, customer-facing water or coffee, close coat rooms, etc.) in waiting or other common areas
Additional on-site amenities and services may only open and operate when those amenities or services would otherwise be authorized to operate under the Commonwealth’s Phased Reopening Plan and then must adhere to all sector-specific safety protocols, available on the Reopening Plan website, applicable to the amenity or service. Examples include:
Food services: Must follow the latest restaurant guidance, provided however that staffed buffets and passed food service is permitted. Self-serve, unattended buffets, topping bars, drink stations, and other communal serving areas must remain closed
Bars: Must remain closed until Phase 4, provided however that drink service may be provided by servers
Musical and other performances: Must follow the latest theater and performance venue guidance, including distance between performers and between performers and attendees. Performances at indoor venues may not include singing or the playing of wind or brass instruments
Dance floors: Must remain closed until Phase 4
Cleaning and Disinfecting
It is the responsibility of approved indoor and outdoor events business owners and staff to adhere to the following at all times:
Conduct frequent cleaning and disinfection of site (at least daily, and more frequently if feasible)
Keep cleaning logs that include date, time, and scope of cleaning
Conduct frequent disinfecting of high traffic areas and high-touch surfaces (e.g., doorknobs, rolling carts, bathrooms)
In the event of a positive case, shut down the site for a deep cleaning and disinfecting of the workplace in accordance with CDC guidance
Open windows and doors to increase airflow where possible
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for reopening. Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every business has access to the resources necessary to meet these strict guidelines. For those businesses, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal, everyday cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Phase 3, Museums, Cultural and Historical Facilities and Guided Tours, Part 2
Phase 3 of Governor Charlie Baker'sadministration's plan to reopenthe state of Massachusetts for business is in effect. Strict rules are in place for the third phase of a four-phase economic reopening in Massachusetts. The following outlines the workplace safety standards pertaining to staffing and operations, and cleaning and disinfecting for Museums, Cultural and Historical Facilities and Guided Tours.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
These standards are minimum requirements only and are not exclusive or exhaustive. The public health data for disease prevention upon which these guidelines are based can and does change frequently, it is the responsibility of each Theater and Performance Venues Business owner to stay abreast of any updates to these requirements.
It is the responsibility of approved museums, cultural and historical facilities and guided tours business owners and staff to adhere to the greater of the following at all times:
Provide training to workers on up-to-date safety information and precautions including hygiene and other measures aimed at reducing disease transmission, including:
Social distancing, hand-washing, proper use of face coverings
Self-screening at home, including temperature and symptom checks
Importance of not coming to work if ill
When to seek medical attention if symptoms become severe
Which underlying health conditions may make individuals more susceptible to contracting and suffering from a severe case of the virus
Adjust workplace hours and shifts (leverage working teams with different schedules or staggered arrival / departure) to minimize contact across workers and reduce congestion at entry points
Facilities should maintain operating hours that allow for on-going off-hour sanitation and cleaning
Limit visitors and service providers on site; shipping and deliveries should be completed in designated areas
Facilities must screen workers at each shift by ensuring the following:
Worker is not experiencing any symptoms such as fever (100.0 and above) or chills, cough, shortness of breath, sore throat, fatigue, headache, muscle/body aches, runny nose/congestion, new loss of taste or smell, or nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
Worker has not had “close contact” with an individual diagnosed with COVID-19. “Close contact” means:
living in the same household as a person who has tested positive for COVID-19
Caring for a person who has tested positive for COVID-19
Being within 6 feet of a person who has tested positive for COVID-19 for 15 minutes or more
Coming in direct contact with secretions (e.g., sharing utensils, being coughed on) from a person who has tested positive for COVID-19 while that person was symptomatic
Worker has not been asked to self-isolate or quarantine by their doctor or a local public health official
Workers who fail to meet the above criteria must be sent home
Maintain a log of workers and visitors to support potential contact tracing (name, date, time, contact information)
Workers must not appear for work if feeling ill
Workers who are particularly vulnerable to COVID-19 according to the Centers for Disease Control (e.g., due to age or underlying conditions) are encouraged to stay home
Workers are strongly encouraged to self-identify symptoms or any close contact to a known or suspected COVID-19 case to the employer
Encourage workers who test positive for COVID-19 to disclose to the workplace employer for purposes of cleaning / disinfecting and contact tracing.
If the employer is notified of a positive case at the workplace, the employer shall notify the local Board of Health (LBOH) in the city or town where the workplace is located and assist the LBOH as reasonably requested to advise 4 likely contacts to isolate and self-quarantine. Testing of other workers may be recommended consistent with guidance and / or at the request of the LBOH
Interactive exhibits (i.e., touch and feel exhibits, play areas) should be closed or be configured with 6 feet of distancing clearly marked and receive frequent cleaning and disinfection.
Hand hygiene station (soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizer) should be accessible to promote safe use
Additional on-site amenities and services may only open and operate when those amenities or services would otherwise be authorized to operate under the Commonwealth’s Phased Reopening Plan and then must adhere to all sector-specific safety protocols, available on the Reopening Plan website, applicable to the amenity or service. Examples include:
Restaurants: Must follow the latest restaurant guidance
Gift shops: Must follow the latest retail guidance
Performance venues: Must follow the latest performance venue guidance
Events: Must follow the latest indoor and outdoor events guidance
Cleaning and Disinfecting
It is the responsibility of approved museums, cultural and historical facilities and guided tours business owners and staff to adhere to the following cleaning and disinfecting guidelines:
Clean commonly touched surfaces in restrooms (e.g., toilet seats, doorknobs, stall handles, sinks, paper towel dispensers, soap dispensers) frequently and in accordance with CDC guidelines
Conduct frequent cleaning and disinfection of site (at least daily and more frequently if feasible)
Keep cleaning logs that include date, time, and scope of cleaning
Conduct frequent disinfecting of heavy transit areas and high-touch surfaces (e.g., doorknobs, bathrooms, ticket counters, staff break rooms)
In event of a positive case, shut down site for a deep cleaning and disinfecting of the workplace in accordance with current CDC guidelines
Open windows and doors to increase airflow where possible
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA and OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for reopening. Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every business has access to the resources necessary to meet these strict guidelines. For those businesses, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal, everyday cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Phase 3, Museums, Cultural and Historical Facilities and Guided Tours
Phase 3 of Governor Charlie Baker'sadministration's plan to reopenthe state of Massachusetts for business is in effect. Strict rules are in place for the third phase of a four-phase economic reopening in Massachusetts. The following outlines the workplace safety standards pertaining to social distancing, guided tour group size and hygiene protocol for Museums, Cultural and Historical Facilities and Guided Tours.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
These standards are minimum requirements only and are not exclusive or exhaustive. The public health data for disease prevention upon which these guidelines are based can and does change frequently, it is the responsibility of each Theater and Performance Venues Business owner to stay abreast of any updates to these requirements.
It is the responsibility of approved museums, cultural and historical facilities and guided tours business owners and staff to monitor customer entries and exits and limit occupancy at all times to the greater of the following:
Each museum must monitor visitor entries and exits and limit occupancy for each building open to the public at all times to:
40% of the museum’s maximum permitted occupancy as documented in its occupancy permit on record with the municipal building department or other municipal record holder
Facilities for which no permitted occupancy limitation is on record may allow 8 persons (including staff) per 1,000 square feet of accessible indoor or outdoor space
In any case, no enclosed space within the facility may exceed occupancy of 8 persons per 1,000 square feet
All occupant counts and calculations shall include customers, staff, and other workers
Post clearly visible signage regarding the need to maintain 6 feet of social distancing and not to enter a room until that distancing can be maintained
Museums are encouraged to offer exclusive hours or other accommodations for those in high risk populations as defined by theCDC
Ensure separation of 6 feet or more between individuals where possible:
Close or reconfigure worker common spaces and high density areas where workers are likely to congregate (e.g., break rooms, eating areas) to allow social distancing
Physical partitions must separate workstations that cannot be spaced out (partitions must be at least 6 feet in height)
Install physical barriers for ticket counters, checkout stations, etc. where possible
Install visual social distancing markers to encourage visitors to remain 6 feet apart (e.g., lines outside of the museum if applicable, lines to make payments, lines to use the restroom)
Mark exhibit rooms and hallways to indicate 6 feet separation
Establish directional pathways to manage visitor flow for foot traffic, if possible, to minimize contact (e.g., one-way entrance and exit to rooms / exhibits, one-way pathways).
Post clearly visible signage regarding these policies
Stagger lunch and break times, regulating max number of people in one place and ensuring at least 6 feet of physical distancing
Require face coverings for all workers and visitors, except where unsafe due to medical condition or disability
Encourage online ticket sales and contactless payment methods if possible
Consider using timed entry tickets / reservations and imposing time limits for visits to ensure compliance with occupancy limits
Encourage the use of electronic versions of guide materials (such as brochures and gallery guides) where possible.
All physical guide materials (such as paper brochures, gallery guides, and audio guides) must be discarded or sanitized between use.
Any self-serve racks must be removed, and all materials must be handed out individually
Group Size Limitations for Guided Tours
It is the responsibility of approved museums, cultural and historical facilities and guided tours business owners and staff to monitor guided group tour sizes to the greater of the following:
Each tour operator using a bus or other vehicle (such as a trolley, harbor cruise vessel, or duck boat) must limit occupancy at all times to 50% of the tour, vehicle or vessel’s maximum permitted occupancy as documented in its occupancy permit on record with the relevant municipal record holder
Occupancy limitations for boat tours using vessels with open deck space that can be used to accommodate passengers shall be determined in accordance with the formula used to set charter boat occupancy limits, outlined in the Workplace Safety and Reopening Standards for For-Hire and Charter Vessels
All occupant counts and calculations shall include customers and workers
Groups of passengers should be separated on the vehicle by empty seats. If that is not possible, vehicles should stagger open rows
Tour operators must limit group size in walking tours to groups of no more than 10 persons (including guides).
Recommend limiting tour parties to members of the same household only
Guides and guests should maintain 6 feet of distance and wear face coverings
Hygiene Protocols
It is the responsibility of approved museums, cultural and historical facilities and guided tours business owners and staff to monitor hygiene of guests and staff to the greater of the following:
Ensure access to handwashing facilities on site, including soap and running water, wherever possible and encourage frequent handwashing; alcohol-based hand sanitizers with at least 60% alcohol may be used as an alternative
Supply workers at workplace location with adequate cleaning products (e.g., sanitizer, disinfecting wipes)
Alcohol-based hand sanitizers with at least 60% alcohol should be made available at entrances, exits, and throughout floor areas for both workers and visitors
Avoid sharing equipment and supplies between workers
Disinfect shared equipment before use by another employee
Post visible signage throughout the site to remind workers of hygiene and safety protocols
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA and OSHAand the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for reopening. Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every business has access to the resources necessary to meet these strict guidelines. For those businesses, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal, everyday cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
A flood can cause serious damage to your Bellingham, MA residential or commercial property. You should file a claim for flood damage as soon as possible. Check your policy to determine how much coverage you have for flooding and then follow these three steps to file a flood claim.
Document Damage
The first step toward filing an insurance claim is to document the extent of the damage. Capture photographic or video proof of standing water as well as damaged building materials and contents. While you should take timely steps to mitigate primary damage and limit the extent of secondary damage, you must capture the condition of the affected areas of your home beforehand. Also, gather and prepare to provide information such as dates of purchase, item values, and any receipts for major possessions that you can find. You may dispose of damaged items after thoroughly documenting the damage.
Notify Your Insurer and Talk to an Adjuster
Secondly, notify your insurer of the property damage and file a flood claim. It is a good idea to file this claim as soon as possible, as it may take some time for your insurer to get around to processing your claim if the flood that has affected your home is widespread. An adjuster will contact you to discuss your coverage and help you prepare a sworn statement regarding the amount of damages supported by documentation.
File Proof of Loss Within 60 Days
Lastly, file proof of loss documentation with an insurance company within two months of a flood. Payouts can only be processed once Proof of Loss is on file.
These are the three major steps to file a flood claim. You should maintain a reliable method of contact such as a cell phone number. Once the damage has been properly documented call the experts at SERVPRO of Framingham, (508) 370-4400. We will make it, "Like it never even happened."
Planning To Reopen - Phase 3, Theaters and Performance Venues, Part 2
Phase 3 of Governor Charlie Baker'sadministration's plan to reopenthe state of Massachusetts for business is in effect. Strict rules are in place for the third phase of a four-phase economic reopening in Massachusetts. The following outlines the workplace safety standards pertaining to social distancing and hygiene protocol for Theaters and Performance Venues
In Step 1 of Phase 3, only outdoor Theater and Performance Venues and indoor movie theaters may reopen. Drive-in movie theaters may continue to operate under guidance issued for Drive-In Movie Theaters. Other indoor Theater and Performance Venues must remain closed until authorized to open at a later point in time. Large capacity event venues must continue to remain closed until Phase IV. This includes venues used for group or spectator sports, entertainment, business, and cultural events including:
Stadiums, arenas, and ballparks
Exhibition and convention halls
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
These standards are minimum requirements only and are not exclusive or exhaustive. The public health data for disease prevention upon which these guidelines are based can and does change frequently, it is the responsibility of each Theater and Performance Venues Business owner to stay abreast of any updates to these requirements.
It is the responsibility of approved theaters and performance venues business owners and staff to monitor customer entries and exits and limit occupancy at all times to the greater of the following:
Provide training to workers on up-to-date safety information and precautions including hygiene and other measures aimed at reducing disease transmission, including:
Social distancing, hand-washing, proper use of face coverings
Self-screening at home, including temperature and symptom checks
Importance of not coming to work if ill
When to seek medical attention if symptoms become severe
Which underlying health conditions may make individuals more susceptible to contracting and suffering from a severe case of the virus
Venues must screen workers at each shift by ensuring the following:
Worker is not experiencing any symptoms such as fever (100.0 and above) or chills, cough, shortness of breath, sore throat, fatigue, headache, muscle/body aches, runny nose/congestion, new loss of taste or smell, or nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
Worker has not had “close contact” with an individual diagnosed with COVID-19. “Close contact” means living in the same household as a person who has tested positive for COVID-19, caring for a person who has tested positive for COVID-19, being within 6 feet of a person who has tested positive for COVID-19 for 15 minutes or more, or coming in 4 direct contact with secretions (e.g., sharing utensils, being coughed on) from a person who has tested positive for COVID-19, while that person was symptomatic
Worker has not been asked to self-isolate or quarantine by their doctor or a local public health official
Workers who fail to meet the above criteria must be sent home
Adjust workplace hours and shifts (leverage working teams with different schedules or staggered arrival / departure) to minimize contact across workers and reduce congestion at entry point
Limit worker movement to discrete work zones to minimize overlap where possible
Venues should maintain operating hours that allow for on-going off-hour sanitation and cleaning
Limit visitors and service providers on site; shipping and deliveries should be completed in designated areas
Maintain a log of workers and visitors to support potential contact tracing (name, date, time, contact information)
Workers who are particularly vulnerable to COVID-19 according to the Centers for Disease Control (e.g., due to age or underlying conditions) are encouraged to stay home
Workers are strongly encouraged to self-identify symptoms or any close contact to a known or suspected COVID-19 case to the employer
Workers may not appear for work if feeling ill
Encourage workers who test positive for COVID-19, to disclose to the employer of the office for purposes of cleaning / disinfecting and contact tracing.
If the employer is notified of a positive case at the workplace, the employer shall notify the local Board of Health (LBOH) in the city or town where the workplace is located and assist the LBOH as reasonably requested to advise likely contacts to isolate and self-quarantine. Testing of other workers may be recommended consistent with guidance and / or at the request of the LBOH
Stagger event times (such as theater showings) to avoid congregation of customers in different groups and to allow for thorough cleaning of the activity space (e.g., seating areas or tables) before new customers arrive
Encourage advanced reservations and digital ticketing where possible
Workers should facilitate organized entrance and exit between events where audiences are arranged in rows or other large groups to prevent unnecessary congregation of customers
Facilities should develop a seating plan for which customers can reserve spots ahead of time and which is adjustable to the size of the booking party allowing couples and small groups to sit together while maintaining at least 6 feet of distance from other individuals/groups
Instruct customers to limit seating groups only to related or associated members of same party
Additional on-site amenities and services may only open and operate when those amenities or services would otherwise be authorized to operate under the Commonwealth’s Phased Reopening Plan and then must adhere to all sector-specific safety protocols, available on the Reopening Plan website, applicable to the amenity or service. Examples include:
Restaurants/food service: Must follow the latest restaurant guidelines
Gift shops: Must follow the latest retail guidelines
Performer hair and makeup: Must follow the latest close contact business guidance
In Step 1, food service is only permitted at outdoor venues
Intermissions should be avoided in order to limit time of performance and to prevent congregating and close contact with others
Reconfigure lobbies to discourage congregation of customers before, during, or after shows
Cleaning and Disinfecting
It is the responsibility of approved theaters and performance venues business owners and staff to monitor customer entries and exits and limit occupancy at all times to the greater of the following:
Conduct frequent cleaning and disinfection of site (at least daily and more frequently if feasible)
Keep cleaning logs that include date, time, and scope of cleaning
Conduct frequent disinfecting of heavy transit areas and high-touch surfaces (e.g., doorknobs, bathrooms, seats, ticket counters, staff break rooms)
In event of a positive case, shut down site for a deep cleaning and disinfecting of the workplace in accordance with current CDC guidance
Open windows and doors to increase air flow where possible
Disinfect seating areas and any other mutually-touched objects immediately after each use.
At no point should customers come in contact with objects that others have touched without first being disinfected according to CDC guidelines
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, FDA, OSHAMass EEA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for reopening. Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every business has access to the resources necessary to meet these strict guidelines. For those businesses, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal, everyday cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Phase 3, Theaters and Performance Venues
Phase 3 of Governor Charlie Baker'sadministration's plan to reopenthe state of Massachusetts for business is in effect. Strict rules are in place for the third phase of a four-phase economic reopening in Massachusetts. The following outlines the workplace safety standards pertaining to social distancing and hygiene protocol for Theaters and Performance Venues
In Step 1 of Phase 3, only outdoor Theater and Performance Venues and indoor movie theaters may reopen. Drive-in movie theaters may continue to operate under guidance issued for Drive-In Movie Theaters. Other indoor Theater and Performance Venues must remain closed until authorized to open at a later point in time. Large capacity event venues must continue to remain closed until Phase IV. This includes venues used for group or spectator sports, entertainment, business, and cultural events including:
Stadiums, arenas, and ballparks
Exhibition and convention halls
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
These standards are minimum requirements only and are not exclusive or exhaustive. The public health data for disease prevention upon which these guidelines are based can and does change frequently, it is the responsibility of each Theater and Performance Venues Business owner to stay abreast of any updates to these requirements.
It is the responsibility of approved theaters and performance venues business owners and staff to monitor customer entries and exits and limit occupancy at all times to the greater of the following:
Indoor movie theaters must monitor customer entries and exits and limit occupancy at all times to:
40% of each individual theater or screening room’s maximum permitted occupancy as documented in its occupancy permit on record with the municipal building department or other municipal record holder, and never more than 25 persons in a single enclosed, indoor space
Venues for which no permitted occupancy limitation is on record may allow 8 persons per 1,000 square feet of accessible space, and never more than 25 persons in a single enclosed, indoor space
Each outdoor venue must monitor customer entries and exits and limit occupancy at all times to 25% of the venue’s maximum permitted occupancy as documented in its occupancy permit on record with the municipal building department or other municipal record holder, but in no event may the venue admit or host more than 100 persons
All occupant counts and calculations for indoor and outdoor venues must include customers, workers, and any other persons present
Post clearly visible signage regarding the need to maintain 6 feet of social distancing and not to enter a room until that distancing can be maintained
Venues must put markers outside of the building to ensure 6 feet of distance for customers who are waiting outside to enter
Venues are encouraged to offer exclusive hours or other accommodations for those in high-risk populations as defined by the CDC
Ensure separation of 6 feet or more between individuals where possible:
Close or reconfigure worker common spaces and high density areas where workers are likely to congregate (e.g., break rooms, eating areas, backstage areas) to allow social distancing
Physical partitions must separate workstations that cannot be spaced out (partitions must be at least 6 feet in height)
Install physical barriers for ticket stations where possible, otherwise maintain 6 feet distance where not possible
Install visual social distancing markers to encourage customers to remain 6 feet apart (e.g., lines for equipment if applicable, checkout lines, lines to use the restroom)
Establish directional pathways to manage visitor flow for foot traffic, to minimize contact (e.g., one-way entrance and exit to shows, one-way pathways). Post clearly visible signage regarding these policies
Reconfigure seating areas to ensure 6 feet distancing between customers not in the same group
Distance shall be measured from the closest boundary of one customer recreation or seating area to the closest boundary of another customer recreation or seating area
This may require blocking every other row of seats and staggered seating within rows
Limit group sizes to no more than 10 people for groups attending together
Stagger lunch and break times for workers, regulating max number of people in one place and ensuring at least 6 feet of physical distancing
Require face coverings for all workers and customers, except where unsafe due to medical condition or disability
Contactless payment methods and / or digital ticketing are encouraged
Special protocols should be followed for close contact between live performers:
Encourage performers to wear face coverings during performances if possible
Performers should remain at least 6 feet apart. Any activity requiring performers to be closer than 6 feet must be as brief as possible
Activities that require prolonged direct contact (e.g. intimate scenes, fight scenes) are discouraged
Prohibit direct interaction between performers and audience before, during, or after performances (including backstage and post-performance meet and greets)
For outdoor live performances, singing and the playing of brass and wind instruments is discouraged. For performances involving singing or brass or wind instruments, special distancing should be followed:
At least 10 feet between performers
At least 25 feet between performers and first row of the audience
Encourage the use of electronic versions or no-touch displays in place of commonly touched physical materials (such as menus and playbills) where possible. All commonly touched physical materials must be discarded or sanitized between use
Any self-serve racks or containers for these materials should be removed, and instead all materials must be handed out individually by workers
Hygiene Protocols
It is the responsibility of approved theaters and performance venues business owners and staff to monitor customer entries and exits and limit occupancy at all times to the greater of the following:
Disinfect shared equipment before use by another worker
Ensure access to handwashing facilities on site, including soap and running water, wherever possible and encourage frequent handwashing; alcohol-based hand sanitizers with at least 60% alcohol may be used as an alternative
Supply workers at workplace location with adequate cleaning products (e.g., sanitizer, disinfecting wipes)
Alcohol-based hand sanitizers with at least 60% alcohol should be made available at entrances, exits and throughout floor areas for workers, performers, and customers
Avoid sharing equipment and supplies between workers including performers
Post visible signage throughout the site to remind customers and workers of hygiene and safety protocols
Prohibit any mutual touching of customer or worker equipment without sanitation between uses
Audience members should wear face coverings while seated during the performance unless unsafe due to disability or medical condition
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, FDA, OSHAMass EEA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for reopening. Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every business has access to the resources necessary to meet these strict guidelines. For those businesses, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal, everyday cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Phase 3, Indoor Recreation Businesses, Part 2
Phase 3 of Governor Charlie Baker'sadministration's plan to reopenthe state of Massachusetts for business is in effect. Strict rules are in place for the third phase of a four-phase economic reopening in Massachusetts. The following outlines the workplace safety standards pertaining to hygiene protocol, staffing and operation, and cleaning and disinfecting Indoor Recreation Businesses approved for reopening during Phase 3.
Approved indoor recreational business are:
batting cages
driving ranges
go-carts
bowling alleys
rock–climbing walls
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
These standards are minimum requirements only and are not exclusive or exhaustive. The public health data for disease prevention upon which these guidelines are based can and does change frequently, it is the responsibility of each Indoor Recreational Business owner to stay abreast of any updates to these requirements.
It is the responsibility of approved indoor recreational activity business owners and staff to monitor customer entries and exits and limit occupancy at all times to the greater of the following:
Ensure access to handwashing facilities on site, including soap and running water, wherever possible and encourage frequent handwashing; alcohol-based hand sanitizers with at least 60% alcohol may be used as an alternative
Supply workers at workplace location with adequate cleaning products (e.g., sanitizer, disinfecting wipes)
Post visible signage throughout the site to remind workers of hygiene and safety protocols
Alcohol-based hand sanitizers with at least 60% alcohol should be made available at entrances, exits and throughout floor areas for both workers and customers
Avoid sharing equipment and supplies between workers
Disinfect shared equipment between uses by customers or workers
Prohibit any mutual touching of customer or worker equipment without sanitation between uses
Require that any equipment that cannot be disinfected between use to be removed from service for 24 hours before it can be used by another customer
Staffing and Operations
It is the responsibility of approved indoor recreational activity business owners and staff to monitor customer entries and exits and limit occupancy at all times to the greater of the following:
Provide training to workers on up-to-date safety information and precautions including hygiene and other measures aimed at reducing disease transmission, including:
Social distancing, hand-washing, proper use of face coverings
Self-screening at home, including temperature and symptom checks
Importance of not coming to work if ill
When to seek medical attention if symptoms become severe
Which underlying health conditions may make individuals more susceptible to contracting and suffering from a severe case of the virus
Facilities must screen workers at each shift by ensuring the following:
Worker is not experiencing any symptoms such as fever (100.0 and above) or chills, cough, shortness of breath, sore throat, fatigue, headache, muscle/body aches, runny nose/congestion, new loss of taste or smell, or nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
Worker has not had “close contact” with an individual diagnosed with COVID-19. “Close contact” means living in the same household as a person who has tested positive for COVID-19, caring for a person who has tested positive for COVID-19, being within 6 feet of a person who has tested positive for COVID-19 for 15 minutes or more, or coming in direct contact with secretions (e.g., sharing utensils, being coughed on) from a person who has tested positive for COVID-19, while that person was symptomatic
Worker has not been asked to self-isolate or quarantine by their doctor or a local public health official
Workers who fail to meet the above criteria must be sent home
Adjust workplace hours and shifts (leverage working teams with different schedules or staggered arrival / departure) to minimize contact across workers and reduce congestion at entry point
Maintain a log of workers and visitors to support potential contact tracing (name, date, time, contact information)
Businesses are encouraged to offer exclusive hours or other accommodations for those in high risk populations as defined by the CDC
Workers who are particularly vulnerable to COVID-19 according to the Centers for Disease Control (e.g., due to age or underlying conditions) are encouraged to stay home
Limit worker movement to discrete work zones to minimize overlap where possible
Workers may not appear for work if feeling ill
Workers are strongly encouraged to self-identify symptoms or any close contact to a known or suspected COVID-19 case to the employer
Encourage workers who test positive for COVID-19, to disclose to the employer of the office for purposes of cleaning / disinfecting and contact tracing.
If the employer is notified of a positive case at the workplace, the employer shall notify the local Board of Health (LBOH) in the city or town where the workplace is located and assist the LBOH as reasonably requested to advise likely contacts to isolate and self-quarantine. Testing of other workers may be recommended consistent with guidance and / or at the request of the LBOH
Post notice to workers and customers of important health information and relevant safety measures as outlined in the Commonwealth’s Mandatory Safety Standards for Workplace
Businesses should maintain operating hours that allow for on-going off-hour sanitation and cleaning
Limit visitors and service providers on site; shipping and deliveries should be completed in designated areas
Stagger activity / event times / encourage reservations (such as for bowling lanes) to avoid congregation of customers in different groups and to allow for thorough cleaning of the activity space (e.g., seating areas or tables) before new customers arrive
Encourage advanced reservations and digital ticketing where possible
For group activities, do not combine persons or small groups with other non-related or nonassociated persons or small groups
Additional on-site amenities and services may only open and operate when those amenities or services would otherwise be authorized to operate under the Commonwealth’s Phased Reopening Plan and then must adhere to all sector-specific safety protocols, available on the Reopening Plan website, applicable to the amenity or service. Examples include:
Restaurants: Must follow the latest restaurant guidelines
Gift shops: Must follow the latest retail guidelines
Pools: Must follow the latest pool guidelines
Arts and entertainment: Must follow the latest performance arts guidance
Bars: Must remain closed until Phase 4
Cleaning and Disinfecting
It is the responsibility of approved indoor recreational activity business owners and staff to monitor customer entries and exits and limit occupancy at all times to the greater of the following:
Clean commonly touched surfaces in restrooms (e.g., toilet seats, doorknobs, stall handles, sinks, paper towel dispensers, soap dispensers) frequently and in accordance with CDC guidelines
Conduct frequent cleaning and disinfection of site (at least daily and more frequently if feasible)
Keep cleaning logs that include date, time, and scope of cleaning
Conduct frequent disinfecting of heavy transit areas and high-touch surfaces (e.g., doorknobs, bathrooms, table tops, ticket counters, staff break rooms)
In event of a positive case, shut down site for a deep cleaning and disinfecting of the workplace in accordance with current CDC guidelines
Open windows and doors to increase air flow where possible
Disinfect all recreation equipment and other objects distributed to customers (e.g., golf putters, pool cues, etc.) immediately when returned after each use. Shared equipment provided to customers may not be re-distributed without first being disinfected according to CDC guidelines
Disposable wipes should be place next to each piece of equipment that cannot be returned to staff (e.g., pool tables, dart boards) for disinfecting. Customers are encouraged to wipe down equipment before and after use in addition to frequent disinfection by staff
If sanitation (or the monitoring thereof by employees) of any piece of equipment is not possible or practical, this equipment should be closed off
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, FDA, OSHAMass EEA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for reopening. Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every business has access to the resources necessary to meet these strict guidelines. For those businesses, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal, everyday cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
High winds can kick up loose debris, creating holes in a rooftop or loosening shingles. When that happens, water penetrates and a roof leak becomes a serious problem. When the roof of your Bellingham, MAcommercial property is in need of repair call the full service experts at SERVPRO of Framingham.
Our Rebuild Team will repair your roof before further damage to your commercial property happens. We will:
Evaluate the Situation
We will assess the situation to determine first, if unknown, the cause of the damage. Our skilled craftsmen will determine the high risk areas in need of immediate attention. If necessary we will tarp the area to prevent any further damage. We will also test for any signs of internal water and mold damage.
Attend to the Found Issues
If we determine that water and/or mold damage exists our Disaster Remediation Team will work alongside of our Rebuild Team to remove all wet material. because it harbors germs. This includes carpeting, baseboards, drywall and ceiling tiles. If necessary drying equipment will be installed to completely dry the affected areas. Lastly, we will apply antimicrobial spray.
Replace Ruined Materials
Once again our teams will work together to identify all damaged to the structure and reinforce the damaged roof area. You will have the piece of mind knowing that not only has the damage to your roof been properly repaired, but also, all secondary water or mold damage has been professionally removed too!
Before the damaged roof of your Bellingham, MAcommercial property causes costly irreplicable harm to your business call the full service experts of SERVPRO of Framinghamat (508) 370-4400 today!
Planning To Reopen - Phase 3, Indoor Recreation Businesses
Phase 3 of Governor Charlie Baker'sadministration's plan to reopenthe state of Massachusetts for business is in effect. Strict rules are in place for the third phase of a four-phase economic reopening in Massachusetts. The following outlines the workplace safety standards pertaining to social distancing for Indoor Recreation Businesses approved for reopening during Phase 3.
Approved indoor recreational business are:
batting cages
driving ranges
go-carts
bowling alleys
rock–climbing walls
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
These standards are minimum requirements only and are not exclusive or exhaustive. The public health data for disease prevention upon which these guidelines are based can and does change frequently, it is the responsibility of each Indoor Recreational Business owner to stay abreast of any updates to these requirements.
It is the responsibility of approved indoor recreational activity business owners and staff to monitor customer entries and exits and limit occupancy at all times to the greater of the following:
40% of the building’s maximum permitted occupancy as documented in its occupancy permit on record with the municipal building department or other municipal record holder
Buildings for which no permitted occupancy limitation is on record may allow 8 persons (including staff) per 1,000 square feet of accessible, indoor space o In any case, no enclosed space within the building may exceed occupancy of 8 persons per 1,000 square feet
All occupant counts and calculations shall include customers, staff, and other workers
Post clearly visible signage regarding the need to maintain 6 feet of social distancing and not to enter a room until that distancing can be maintained
Ensure separation of 6 feet or more between individuals where possible:
Close or reconfigure worker common spaces and high density areas where workers are likely to congregate (e.g., break rooms, eating areas) to allow social distancing o Physical partitions must separate workstations that cannot be spaced out (partitions must be at least 6 feet in height)
Install physical barriers for checkout stations where possible, otherwise maintain 6 feet distance where not possible
Install visual social distancing markers to encourage customers to remain 6 feet apart (e.g., lines to enter the building, lines for equipment if applicable, checkout lines, lines to use the restroom)
Mark rooms and hallways to indicate 6 feet separation
Stagger lunch and break times, regulating max number of workers in one place and ensuring at least 6 feet of physical distancing
Require face coverings for all workers and customers, except where unsafe due to medical condition or disability
Establish directional pathways to manage visitor flow for foot traffic, to minimize contact (e.g., one-way entrance and exit to rooms / recreation areas, one-way pathways).
Post clearly visible signage regarding traffic policies
Reconfigure seating / recreation areas to ensure 6 feet distancing between customers not in the same group
Distance shall be measured from the closest boundary of one customer recreation area to the closest boundary of another customer recreation area
Limit group sizes for group activities or group bookings to no more than 10 people
Contactless payment methods and / or digital ticketing are encouraged
Encourage the use of electronic versions or no-touch displays in place of commonly touched physical materials (such as menus and pricing brochures) where possible.
All commonly touched physical materials must be discarded or sanitized between use
Any self-serve equipment or other physical materials should be removed, and instead all materials must be handed out individually by employees
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, FDA, OSHAMass EEA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for reopening. Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every business has access to the resources necessary to meet these strict guidelines. For those businesses, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal, everyday cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Phase 3, Fitness Centers and Health Clubs Part 2
Phase 3 of Governor Charlie Baker'sadministration's plan to reopenthe state of Massachusetts for business is in effect. Strict rules are in place for the third phase of a four-phase economic reopening in Massachusetts. The following outlines the workplace safety standards pertaining to staffing, operations, cleaning and disinfecting for Fitness Centers and Health Clubs.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
These standards are minimum requirements only and are not exclusive or exhaustive. The public health data for disease prevention upon which these guidelines are based can and does change frequently, it is the responsibility of each Fitness Centers and Health Club to stay abreast of any updates to these requirements.
Managers and staff of Fitness Centers and Health Clubs must adhere to the following:
Encourage outdoor exercise, classes, sessions, etc. where possible, so long as appropriate physical distancing is maintained at all times and any equipment used is sanitized after each use
Personal trainers should maintain six feet of distance from clients to the extent possible and should minimize any prolonged close contact. Personal trainers must wear face coverings.
Any equipment used during the personal training session must be sanitized after each use, or at the end of the session if the client was the only person who used the equipment during the session
Provide training to workers on up-to-date safety information and precautions including hygiene and other measures aimed at reducing disease transmission, including:
Social distancing, hand-washing, proper use of face coverings
Self-screening at home, including temperature and symptom checks
Reinforcing that staff should not come to work if sick o When to seek medical attention if symptoms become severe
Which underlying health conditions may make individuals more susceptible to contracting and suffering from a severe case of the virus
Adjust workplace hours and shifts (working teams with different schedules or staggered arrival / departure) to minimize contact across workers and reduce congestion
Require customers to sign up for classes in advance
Facilities must screen workers at each shift by ensuring the following:
Worker is not experiencing any symptoms such as fever (100.0 and above) or chills, cough, shortness of breath, sore throat, fatigue, headache, muscle/body aches, runny nose/congestion, new loss of taste or smell, or nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
Worker has not had “close contact” with an individual diagnosed with COVID-19. “Close contact” means living in the same household as a person who has tested positive for COVID-19, caring for a person who has tested positive for COVID-19, being within 6 feet of a person who has tested positive for COVID-19 for 15 minutes or more, or coming in direct contact with secretions (e.g., sharing utensils, being coughed on) from a person who has tested positive for COVID-19, while that person was symptomatic
Worker has not been asked to self-isolate or quarantine by their doctor or a local public health official
Workers who fail to meet the above criteria must be sent home
Maintain a log of workers and customers to support potential contact tracing (name, date, time, contact information)
Limit employees to discrete work zones to minimize overlap where possible
Close or limit waiting areas and, for class-based activities with distinct session times, ask customers to wait outside or in cars until 10 minutes prior to their class
Schedule 30-minute windows between classes to allow for thorough cleaning and appropriate ventilation of the fitness room, and to discourage congestion
Consider creating “shifts” for customers engaging in unstructured exercise (i.e., open weight rooms) by using a reservation system in order to enforce occupancy limits
Clearly designate staff responsible for sanitizing, cleaning, and supervision during each shift
Workers who are particularly high risk to COVID-19 according to the Centers for Disease Control (e.g., due to age or underlying conditions) are encouraged to stay home
Encourage workers to self-identify symptoms or any close contact to a known or suspected COVID-19 case to the employer
Workers must stay home if feeling ill
Encourage workers who test positive for COVID-19 to disclose to the workplace employer for purposes of cleaning / disinfecting and contact tracing. If the employer is notified of a positive case at the workplace, the employer shall notify the local Board of Health (LBOH) in the city or town where the workplace is located and assist the LBOH as reasonably requested to advise likely contacts to isolate and self-quarantine. Testing of other workers may be recommended consistent with CDC or DPH guidance and / or at the request of the LBOH
Post notice to workers and visitors of important health information and relevant safety measures as outlined in the Commonwealth’s Mandatory Safety Standards for Workplace
Close or mark lockers to enforce 6 feet social distancing, especially in locker rooms. Lockers should be sanitized after each use. Gyms should provide sanitizing wipes near the lockers or in the locker room
Close all communal and individually partitioned showers. Showers that accompany pools may follow guidance for pools located on the Reopening Website
Consider setting aside specific hours of operation exclusively for vulnerable populations
Require that towels be stored in clearly labeled (clean vs. soiled) sanitary containers. Appropriate temperatures should be used when washing and drying towels. Employees must wear proper protective equipment (gloves and face covering) while handling towels. Towels should not be shaken out
Operations of related services may be allowed to open and must follow sector-specific safety protocols for each setting. Some examples include:
In-facility child-care: Must follow child-care guidance
Bars/food services: Must follow restaurant guidance o Pools: Must follow pool guidance
Athletic facilities (e.g., tennis courts): Must follow adult and youth sports guidance
Massage: Must follow close contact personal services guidance
Saunas, hot-tubs, and steam rooms: May not open before Phase 4
Fans should not be used indoors and should only be used for outdoor classes if directed away from other customers
For indoor and outdoor sports guidance, please refer to the EEA Reopening Site
Cleaning and Disinfecting
Managers and staff of Fitness Centers and Health Clubs must adhere to the following:
Clean commonly touched surfaces in restrooms (e.g., toilet seats, doorknobs, stall handles, sinks, paper towel dispensers, soap dispensers) frequently and in accordance with CDC guidelines
Conduct frequent cleaning and disinfection of site (at least daily, and more frequently if feasible)
Keep cleaning logs that include date, time, and scope of cleaning
Conduct frequent disinfecting of heavily transited areas and high-touch surfaces (e.g., doorknobs, handrails, equipment, etc.)
In the event of a positive case of a worker, customer or vendor shut down site and wait 24 hours before cleaning and disinfecting of the workplace in accordance with current CDC guidelines
Open windows and doors to increase airflow where possible
Disinfect all fitness equipment or mutually-touched objects (e.g., spin shoes, jump ropes, dumbbells, etc.) immediately after each use. At no point should customers come in contact with objects that others have touched without first being disinfected according to CDC guidelines
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, FDA, OSHAMass EEA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for reopening. Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every business has access to the resources necessary to meet these strict guidelines. For those businesses, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal, everyday cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Phase 3, Fitness Centers and Health Clubs
Phase 3 of Governor Charlie Baker'sadministration's plan to reopenthe state of Massachusetts for business is in effect. Strict rules are in place for the third phase of a four-phase economic reopening in Massachusetts. The following outlines the workplace safety standards pertaining to social distancing and hygiene protocols for Fitness Centers and Health Clubs.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
These standards are minimum requirements only and are not exclusive or exhaustive. The public health data for disease prevention upon which these guidelines are based can and does change frequently, it is the responsibility of each Fitness Centers and Health Club to stay abreast of any updates to these requirements.
Fitness Centers and Health Clubs are defined by the state as any fitness facility that provides access to and/or instruction of personal fitness training, including but not limited to fitness activities such as:
Weight and resistance training
Cross training
Yoga
Martial arts
Spin classes
Boot camp training
Additionally, both indoor and outdoor athletic facilities (whether a standalone facility or part of a Fitness Center or Health Club) used for gymnastics, tennis, and swimming must follow the EEA's Youth and Adult Sports guidance and the Pool guidance.
Standards for Responsible Fitness Centers and Health Clubs
No activity in Fitness Centers and Health Clubs shall occur without meeting these sector specific COVID19 workplace safety standards. These standards apply to all Fitness Centers and Health Clubs until rescinded or amended by the State. The owner of the Fitness Center or Health Club shall be responsible for meeting these standards. While these standards permit the operation of both indoor and outdoor fitness facilities, Fitness Centers and Health Clubs are strongly encouraged to offer outdoor classes / activities to reduce the risk of disease transmission.
Social Distancing
Each facility must monitor visitor entries and exits, ensure social distancing, and limit occupancy at all times to:
40% of the facility’s maximum permitted occupancy as documented in its occupancy permit on record with the municipal building department or other municipal record holder
Facilities for which no permitted occupancy limitation is on record may allow 8 persons per 1,000 square feet of accessible indoor or outdoor space
In any case, no enclosed space within the facility may exceed occupancy of 8 persons per 1,000 square feet
All occupancy counts and calculations shall include visitors, staff, and other workers
All equipment (weights, machines, treadmills, bikes, etc.) mus be arranged so exercise areas are spaced out at least 14 feet apart. Spacing of machines may be adjusted to at least 6 feet apart if barriers are installed
If possible install plastic barriers between equipment.
Barriers must extend high enough to effectively block respiration from someone using the equipment
Barriers must be cleaned regularly
If spacing of equipment is not possible, equipment should be blocked off (e.g., every other machine) to maintain 14 feet distancing
Install visual markers (boundaries, walkways, signage, etc.) to encourage customers to remain at least 6 feet apart while moving throughout the space
Establish directional pathways to manage visitor flow for foot traffic, to minimize contact (e.g., one-way entrance and exit to rooms, one-way pathways). Post clearly visible signage regarding these policies
If possible establishing “workout zones” to encourage spacing of customers using free weights, dumbbells, etc.
Stagger lunch and break times for workers, regulate the maximum number of people in one place and ensure at least 6 feet of physical distancing between workers
Close or reconfigure common spaces and high-density areas of facilities where workers are likely to congregate (e.g., break rooms and eating areas) to allow 6 feet of physical distancing
Close or reconfigure other common spaces where customers are likely to congregate or where social distancing is not possible, such as lobbies and waiting areas
Require face coverings for all workers and visitors, except where unsafe due to medical condition or disability
If customers cannot wear a face covering during strenuous fitness activities, physical distancing must be at least 14 feet.
If customers are wearing face coverings during fitness activities, physical distancing must be at least 6 feet
Install physical partitions in areas where physical distancing is not possible, such as service counters
Contactless payment and sign-in methods are encouraged
In group fitness classes, 14 feet of physical distancing must be maintained between attendees at all times. If physical barriers are installed between group fitness equipment, 6 feet of physical distancing should be maintained
Hygiene Protocols
Ensure access to handwashing facilities on site, including soap and running water, and allow enough break time for workers to wash hands frequently; alcohol-based hand sanitizers with at least 60% alcohol may be used as an alternative
Distribute hand sanitizer and disposable wipes abundantly throughout the space for workers and customers to disinfect their hands and equipment before and after use
Disposable wipes should be placed next to each piece of large equipment (such as treadmills, bikes, rowing machines) and next to each area containing smaller equipment (such as free weights)
Require trainers to wash hands before and after each training session and sanitize frequently during each session
All equipment must be sanitized between uses. No equipment should be used by another customer or returned to the storage rack / container without being sanitized
Encourage customers to use one piece of equipment at a time (e.g., limit circuit training or “super sets” with multiple pieces of equipment) in order to facilitate required sanitizing.
Facilities must provide sanitization supplies at each piece of equipment in order for customers to clean in between each use
If sanitation (or the monitoring thereof by employees) of any piece of equipment is not possible or practical, this equipment should be closed off
Encourage customers to use their own personal exercise equipment (such as spin shoes, jump ropes, yoga mats, etc.) when possible.
If shared items are used, they must be sanitized in between each use
Post visible signage throughout the site to remind workers and customers of hygiene and safety protocols
Allow water fountains to be used as refill stations only, provided that social distancing can be maintained.
Customers and workers should bring their own water bottles or purchase beverages from the business
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, FDA, OSHAMass EEA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for reopening. Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every business has access to the resources necessary to meet these strict guidelines. For those businesses, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal, everyday cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
We are officially in Phase 3 of Governor Charlie Baker'sadministration's plan to reopenthe state of Massachusetts for business. Strict rules are in place for the third phase of a four-phase economic reopening in Massachusetts. Businesses that return in Phase 3 must follow safety restrictions, most notable of which will be limits on capacity. This phase will be comprised of two smaller steps.The following outlines the two steps, changes to restrictions and Step 1 businesses approved to reopen.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
Businesses and other organizations that are designated as Phase 3 enterprises (identified below) are permitted to open and operate from their physical workplaces and facilities according to the progressive two-step schedule. Phase 3 enterprises may open those promises to workers, customers, and the public only one authorized under the two-step schedule and provided that they comply with all workplace safety rules and standards.
Step One
July 6, 2020, Phase 3 enterprises that are designated as Step 1 enterprises on schedule I may open they’re breaking water iMessage to workers, customers, and the public; provided, however, if for any premises located with the city of Boston, step one of phase 3 shall commence on July 13, 2020.
Step Two
If the public health data reflects continue positive progression, step two will be announced by a subsequent phase 3 order. Effective upon the commencement of step two, phase 3 enterprises that are designated as step 2 enterprise is on schedule they may be open in their brick-and-mortar promises to workers, customers, and public
Adjustments to Restrictions on Organized Sports Activities and Programs
The Secretary of the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) will continue to issue sector specific rules to implement COVID-19 safety measures for both organized youth and adult amateur sports activities and shall continue to issue COVID-19 sector-specific rules and any other safety standards for operations of and participants in outdoor recreational activities. Visit EEA website regularly for updates to restrictions.
The specific restrictions on amateur organization organized sports itemized in paragraphs A-D of section 3 of COVID-19 order 35 have been rescinded. Accordingly the secretary of the EEA will continue to work with the Department of Health to determine ongoing, appropriate Sep 1 and Step 2 allowances, rules, and restrictions that
Permit games, scrimmages, and tournaments for both two-contact and contact sports
Establish appropriate limitations on the number of persons that may participate at one time in and organize sports activity with a single facility or a single court, field, or other playing surface
Open indoor athletic facilities for used by both youths and adults
Visit EEA website regularly for updates to restrictions.
Newly Reopened Businesses Premises
Phase 3 enterprises that are authorized under to open their brick-and-mortar premises to workers, customers, and the public shall be required to self-certify that they are in compliance with all generally acceptable COVID-19 workplace safety rules and any applicable sector-specific rules. Before opening a break-and-the mortar premises under the terms of this order the enterprise shall
Bring the workplace into full compliance with all applicable COVID-19 workplace safety rules and all Sector-Specific Rules applicable to the individual workplace
Complete the required self-certification to verify compliance with all applicable Sector-Specific Rules and make the self-certification available for inspection upon a request by State of Local authorities
Post on the premises all applicable public notices and advisories that are required to be displayed
Phase 3 Step One Businesses
Post secondary/higher ed/vocational-tech/trade/occupational schools - general operations
Casino gaming floors
Horse racing tracks and simulcast facilities
Indoor recreational athletic facilities for general use (not limited to youth programs)
Fitness studios (yoga, barre, cross–fit, spin classes, general fitness studios)
Museums
Indoor historic spaces/sights
Aquariums
Outdoor theaters and other outdoor performance venues NOT designated as Phase 4 enterprises
Movie theaters
Sightseeing and other organized tours (bus tours, duck tours, harbor cruise, whale watching)
Motion picture, television, and video streaming production
Fishing and hunting tournaments and other amateur or professional derbies
Outdoor event spaces used for gatherings and celebrations including those in parks, reservations, and other outdoor spaces NOT designated as Phase 4 enterprises
Indoor event spaces such as meeting rooms, ballrooms, and private party rooms – only when used for functions or events permitted under sector any specific rules for indoor and outdoor events
Indoor non-athletic instructional classes in arts/education/life skills for persons 18 years or older
Indoor recreational activities with low potential for a contact
batting cages
driving ranges
go-carts
bowling alleys
rock–climbing walls
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, FDA, OSHAMass EEA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for reopening. Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every business has access to the resources necessary to meet these strict guidelines. For those businesses, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal, everyday cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
As of Monday, July 6th, Governor Charlie Bakerofficially began Phase 3 of the administration's plan to reopenthe state of Massachusetts for business. This move allows gyms, museums, movie theaters and more to resume some operations even as COVID-19 cases surge in other parts of the country.
Strict rules are in place for the third phase of a four-phase economic reopening in Massachusetts. Businesses that return in Phase 3 must follow safety restrictions, most notable of which will be limits on capacity. Additionally, Governor Baker made clear that Phase 3 "will last significantly longer than the other phases. He also noted that this phase will be comprised of two smaller steps.The following highlights Phase 3 guidelines.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
The Department of Public Health (DPH) also issued updated guidance to mitigate the spread of COVID-19.
Step One of Phase 3
Key public health data, such as new cases and hospitalizations, have been closely monitored and has seen a decline allowing for Phase 3 to begin on July 6th. Phase 3 will begin on July 13 in Boston.
Since mid-April, the 7-day average for the positive COVID-19 test rate is down 94 percent, the 3-day average of hospitalized patients is down 79 percent and the number of hospitals in surge is down 86 percent.
More than 1,000,000 total COVID-19 tests have been administered, and testing continues throughout the state.
The following businesses will be eligible to reopen in Step One of Phase 3, subject to industry-specific rules concerning capacity and operations:
Movie theaters and outdoor performance venues;
Museums, cultural and historical sites;
Fitness centers and health clubs;
Certain indoor recreational activities with low potential for contact;
Professional sports teams, under the authority of league-wide rules, may hold games without spectators
Full guidance and list of businesses eligible to reopen in Step One of Phase 3 can be found by visiting the Mass.Gov website or clicking here. Businesses and sectors set to begin opening in Phase 3 are subject to compliance with all mandatory safety standards.
Revised Gatherings Order
Under the updated gatherings order, indoor gatherings are limited to eight people per 1,000 square feet, but should not exceed 25 people in a single enclosed, indoor space.
Outdoor gatherings in enclosed spaces are limited to 25 percent of the facility’s maximum permitted occupancy, with a maximum of 100 people in a single enclosed outdoor space. This includes community events, civic events, sporting events, concerts, conventions and more. This order does not apply to outdoor, unenclosed gatherings if proper social distancing measures are possible.
This revised order does not supersede previously issued sector guidance, and is effective beginning Monday, July 6. It will be effective Monday, July 13 in the City of Boston.
Public Health Guidance
In Phase 3, health care providers may continue to provide in-person procedures and services as allowed in Phase 2, with the addition of certain group treatment programs and day programs. These programs include adult day health, day habilitation programs, and substance abuse services day treatment and outpatient services. Certain human services programs can reopen including community based day services for adults with intellectual and cognitive disabilities and psychosocial rehabilitation clubhouses.
Health care providers are subject to compliance with all mandatory safety standards, and must continue to utilize prioritization policies established in Phase II for care delivery and scheduling, as well as monitor patient volume for non-essential, elective procedures and services.
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, FDA, OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for reopening. Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every business has access to the resources necessary to meet these strict guidelines. For those businesses, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal, everyday cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Phase 2 Child Programs Minimum Requirements, Part 14
There are many support systems that must be inplace to successfully reopen the state of Massachusetts. One of the essential support systems that must be ready for Governor Charlie Baker'splan to reopenthe Commonwealth is child care and youth programs. This blog highlights the administration's preparation minimum requirements as well as additional strategies for reducing the risk of COVID-19 transmission and required activity limitation for recreational camps and programs as outlined in Governor Charlie Baker's administration's guidelines for reopening child and youth programs.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
These requirements apply to all child and youth-serving programs, including recreational summer programs, recreational summer camps for children, municipal or recreational youth programs not traditionally licensed as camps, family child care, and center-based child care. As more is learned about the virus guidelines are updated accordingly. Those charged with planning to reopen child and youth programs should check the both the Massachusetts department ofEarly Education and Care (EEC) and the CDC websiteregularly to make sure that they are following the latest guidance.
Programs that are unable to must make the following changes to their operations or remain closed and reopen at a later date.
Preparing for Recreational Camps and Programs
Program managers and staff of recreational camps and programs permitted to operate during the current phase must prepare the camp environment to promote the new health and safety requirements and to facilitate infection control activities.
Contact facility management and other programs sharing facility space to discuss if and how new requirements can be implemented and plan to address any challenges.
Prepare the materials and equipment to be used by children to minimize sharing and promote physical distancing.
Shared items that cannot be cleaned or disinfected must be removed from activity rotation.
Prepare all cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfecting solutions and store them in a locked closet or compartment that is accessible to staff in each area of the camp, but inaccessible to campers.
Ensure that supplies for hand hygiene are adequate, accessible, and placed appropriately throughout the camp space.
Prepare the camp space to ensure physical distancing required by the phase are met.
Camps must consider physical building capacity limitations and the total number of children anticipated to be in any one area throughout the day and during inclement weather.
Decisions about organization of the camp space must be guided by the camp’s ability to implement adequate and consistent physical distancing, especially in terms of utilization of common spaces that need to be shared by campers and staff.
Camp enrollment must be based on the number of individuals that may be housed in an emergency. Emergency shelter occupancy shall have sufficient space to provide 6 ft. of separation between individuals.
Program managers must increase staffing to ensure supervision of campers in the case of potential need for quarantine of staff with symptoms or illness as well as supervising youth with symptoms. Refer to Healthcare Personnel:Occupational Exposure & Return to Work Guidance for requirements on quarantine and returning to employment..
Recreational camps must ensure a minimum of 2 properly trained Health Care Supervisors are present at all times at camp in the event a camper becomes symptomatic while at camp.
Staff members age 65 or older or with serious underlying health conditions should assess their risk to determine if they should stay home or follow additional precautions.
Ensure that there are adequate provisions for the storage of children and staff belongings so that they do not touch.
Ensure that ventilation systems operate properly and increase circulation of outdoor air as much as possible by opening windows and doors, using fans, and other methods unless doing so creates a hazard.
Ensure water systems and features (e.g., cooling systems) are safe to use after a prolonged facility shutdown to minimize the risk of Legionnaires’ disease and other diseases associated with water.
Additional Strategies to Reduce the Risk of Transmission for Recreational Camps and Programs
In addition to the strategies highlighted in one of our previous blogs (click here to view) program managers and staff of recreational camps and programs must apply these additional guidelines.
Camp cohorts may not exceed maximum group size in place at the time of operations. Cohorts must not be combined at any time.
The same staff member must be assigned to the same group of children each day for the duration of the program session (if weekly or monthly) and at all times while in care.
Staff must not float between groups either during the day or from day-to-day, unless needed to provide supervision of specialized activities such as swimming, boating, archery, or firearms, or to provide staff with breaks.
Camps may not congregate staff/campers in a way that does not allow for six feet of physical distancing between individuals.
Staff should limit their contact with one another unless they are in the same cohort.
Staff meetings should be conducted remotely, when possible.
Camps may need to stagger the use of communal spaces in order to ensure physical distancing requirements. For example, camps must add extra meal shifts if necessary to maintain physical distancing and maximum group sizes in the dining hall or dining area.
Camps must monitor all individuals that staff and children come into contact with during the course of the camp day in the potential case of exposure.
While all camps serving youth and children must designate an isolation room or space, camps must prepare for the possibility of needing to isolate multiple campers. If possible, camps must create multiple, separate isolation rooms and spaces so symptomatic individuals can also physical distance from each other.
Activity Limitations for Recreational Camps and Programs
Program managers and staff must ensure that all activities are conducted in accordance with physical distancing, masking and sanitation requirements and following the guidance below.
Minimize equipment sharing, and clean and disinfect shared equipment (such as balls and pucks) and at the end of each activity by products recommended by the CDC.
Personal equipment, such as helmets and pads, shall not be shared.
Activities should be outside when possible.
Camps can use their own, private, swimming pools and beach front in accordance with guidance.
Camps may not use community pools or beaches.
Campers must use their own dedicated personal floatation devices which camps may provide.
Camp operators that supply Personal Floatation Devices (PFD) to campers must clean and disinfect the PFD in accordance with US Coast Guard guidance.
Camps may not take campers on field trips or for other offsite travel.
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, FDA, OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for reopening. Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every business has access to the resources necessary to meet these strict guidelines. For those businesses, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal, everyday cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Phase 2 Child Programs Minimum Requirements, Part 13
There are many support systems that must be inplace to successfully reopen the state of Massachusetts. One of the essential support systems that must be ready for Governor Charlie Baker'splan to reopenthe Commonwealth is child care and youth programs. This blog highlights the administration's general guidance as well as the minimum planning requirements for recreational camps and programs as outlined in Governor Charlie Baker's administration's guidelines for reopening child and youth programs.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
These requirements apply to all child and youth-serving programs, including recreational summer programs, recreational summer camps for children, municipal or recreational youth programs not traditionally licensed as camps, family child care, and center-based child care. As more is learned about the virus guidelines are updated accordingly. Those charged with planning to reopen child and youth programs should check the both the Massachusetts department ofEarly Education and Care (EEC) and the CDC websiteregularly to make sure that they are following the latest guidance.
Programs that are unable to must make the following changes to their operations or remain closed and reopen at a later date.
General Guidance for Recreational Camps and Programs
Recreational Camps and Programs must operate under the following guidance as well as all other applicable state, CDC, and/or local municipal guidance. Residential Camps and other overnight stays are not permitted until further notice.
Recreational Camps and Programs may operate with activity restrictions and limited opening for groups ≤12.
Camps may have multiple groups of 12 campers and counselors, provided physical distancing is maintained between and within groups.
Visitors (including parents) and volunteers are not permitted.
Recreational Camps must comply with 105 CMR 430 Minimum Standards for Recreational Camps for Children: State Sanitary Code Chapter IVas well as any additional more restrictive MA state or local requirements or orders in response to COVID-19. Camps are responsible for ensuring their operations are updated to comply with new guidance and orders.
Planning for Recreational Camps and Programs
Program managers and staff of all camps that are allowed to operate during the current phase must ensure the following planning requirements are met.
Recreational Camps and Programs plans must be updated to address how they will meet the new health and safety requirements associated with COVID-19.
For Recreational Camps, plans must be included into Staff Training and Orientation and provided in writing and included in or in addition to the written camp Health Care Policy and other relevant procedures (105 CMR 430.159).
Elements planning for Recreational Camps and Programs must include the following:
A plan to address cleaning, disinfecting, sanitizing and frequency. This must include a daily staff cleaning schedule to ensure that all areas, materials, furniture, and equipment are properly cleaned, sanitized, or disinfected.
A plan for identifying and handling sick, symptomatic, and exposed children and staff that includes but is not limited to daily screening checks, location of screening activities, and staff responsible for screening. All staff conducting screenings should be trained to do so by the Health Care Consultant.
A plan for the isolation and discharge of sick, symptomatic, and exposed children or staff, including procedures for contacting parents immediately, criteria for seeking medical assistance, transportation of a child/staff who has developed symptoms related to COVID-19 mid-day and who rely on camp transportation, mitigation of transmission until the sick individual can safely leave the camp, and immediately notifying the local board of health.
Program managers and staff of recreational camps and programs must ensure that their sick leave policies are flexible and promote the importance of staff not coming to work if they have a frequent cough, sneezing, fever, difficulty breathing, chills, muscle pain, headache, sore throat, or recent loss of taste or smell, or if they or someone they live with has been diagnosed with COVID-19. (3) Recreational Camps and
Program managers must designate a senior camp staff person to be responsible for responding to COVID-19 concerns. Employees should know who this person is and how to contact them.
Program managers and staff of recreational camps and programs must develop a plan for food service. Snacks and meals should be brought from home, be pre-packaged, or be ready to serve in individual portions to minimize handling and preparation. Where this is not feasible, staff must prepare and serve meals. Meals should not be served family style.
Program managers and staff of recreational camps and programs must develop a plan for safe vendor deliveries, if applicable. Noncontact delivery protocols must be arranged whenever possible.
Program managers and staff of recreational camps and programs must develop a plan for handling camp closings and staff absences.
Program managers and staff of recreational camps and programs must develop a plan outlining the lines of communication between staff and parents, local board of health, the Department of Public Health Community Sanitation Program, and other appropriate audiences.
Program managers and staff of recreational camps and programs must develop a plan for sharing information and guidelines with parents that includes the following:
A system to check with parents daily on the health status of their children when children are dropped off at the facility.
Email addresses and home, work, and mobile phone numbers from parents of children at the camp so that staff can reach them at any time.
A tested communication system with parents, children at the camp, all staff, facility and/or grounds management, and emergency medical services.
Information on COVID-19 including symptoms, transmission, prevention, and when to seek medical attention. Encouraging parents to share the information with their children as appropriate.
Provide parents with information on the camp’s policies for preventing and responding to infection and illness. This must be given to the camper’s parents/guardians and not just provided on a website. Provide information in the primary languages spoken by the parents, if possible
Program managers and staff of recreational camps and programs must develop safe pickup/drop off procedures to maintain physical distancing and prevent the mixing of campers.
Explain new procedures with parents prior to the first drop-off.
Confirm the pickup person is camper’s parent, legal guardian, or other individual designated in writing to have permission to pick up the camper.
A transportation plan for limited camp transportation, if needed, provided that transportation conforms with the minimum requirements for Transportation. To view the administration's minimum requirements for transportation visit our previous blog by clicking, here.
Camps must have contingency plans for arranging for transportation for a sick camper, in the case that parents are unable to pick up their children, and for staff, in case they are unable to transport themselves.
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, FDA, OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for reopening. Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every business has access to the resources necessary to meet these strict guidelines. For those businesses, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal, everyday cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Phase 2 Child Programs Minimum Requirements, Part 12
Child care and youth-serving programs remain a critical component in Governor Charlie Baker'soverall plan to reopenthe state of Massachusetts and get the residents of the Commonwealth back to work. This blog highlights the minimum requirements for food preparation as well as caring for children with special needs, vulnerable children, and infants and toddlers as outlined in Governor Charlie Baker's administration's guidelines for reopening child and youth programs.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
These requirements apply to all child and youth-serving programs, including recreational summer programs, recreational summer camps for children, municipal or recreational youth programs not traditionally licensed as camps, family child care, and center-based child care. As more is learned about the virus guidelines are updated accordingly. Those charged with planning to reopen child and youth programs should check the both the Massachusetts department ofEarly Education and Care (EEC) and the CDC websiteregularly to make sure that they are following the latest guidance.
Programs that are unable to must make the following changes to their operations or remain closed and reopen at a later date.
Ensuring Food Safety
Program managers and their staff must follow these food safety guidelines.
Whenever possible, snacks must be pre-packaged or ready to serve in individual portions to minimize handling and preparation. Meals shall not be served family style.
To minimize potential spread of infection and to promote physical distancing, cafeterias and group dining rooms must be avoided. If there are no alternatives, programs must adequately physical distance during meals and add extra meal shifts.
Multiple children shall not use the same serving or eating utensils. Each child must have an individual cup to use.
Sinks used for food preparation must not be used for any other purposes.
Staff must ensure children wash hands prior to and immediately after eating.
Staff must wash their hands before preparing food and after helping children to eat.
Tables, chairs, high chairs, and high chair trays used for meals need to be cleaned and sanitized before and after use.
All food contact surfaces, equipment, and utensils used for the preparation, packaging, or handling of food products must be washed, rinsed, and sanitized before each use.
Following the product label use directions for enveloped viruses, as indicated by the approved emerging viral pathogen claim on the master label.
If the directions for use for viruses/viricidal activity list multiple contact times or dilutions, use the longest contact time or most concentrated solution.
Be sure to follow the label directions for FOOD CONTACT SURFACES when using the chemical near or on utensils and food contact surfaces.
Identify and Understand Children's Healthcare Needs
To ensure that programs are adequately prepared to provide safe and appropriate services to children with special needs and vulnerable children, program managers and staff must take following steps.
Review medical information submitted by parents and determine whether and how many high-risk children are in attendance.
Reach out to parents of high-risk children and encourage them to discuss with their healthcare provider about whether the program is a safe option for the child and if additional protections are necessary.
Discuss with the parent any concerns they have with the new protocols and how you can best help their child understand and adhere as close as possible to the health and safety requirements.
Supporting Children with Special Needs
Children with special needs will require unique supports in programs that may make it less possible to practice physical distancing and will require ample staff support to carry out the necessary hygiene practices. Program managers and staff must ensure that the program is adequately staffed and that staff are prepared and properly trained to accommodate children’s needs.
Staff must be prepared to provide hands-on assistance to children with special needs for activities of daily living such as feeding, toileting, and changing of clothes.
staff who care for children requiring hands-on assistance for routine care activities, including toileting, diapering, feeding, washing, or dressing, and other direct contact activities must wear a long-sleeved, button down, oversized shirt over their clothing and wear long hair up or tied back during all activities requiring direct contact with a child.
Staff must change outer clothing if body fluids from the child get on it. Staff must change the child’s clothing if body fluids get on it. Soiled clothing must be placed in a plastic bag until it can be sent home with the child to be washed.
Staff must be adequately trained and prepared to support children with health care needs with the necessary provisions of health care such as administration of medication needed throughout the day, tube feedings, blood sugar checks, and allergies to certain foods.
For more invasive procedures, staff must protect themselves by wearing a gown or other body covering (e.g., an oversized button-down, long sleeved shirt, etc.), eye protection, and mask.
Children with special needs may be unable to comply with face covering because of intellectual, behavioral, or sensory issues. To minimize the risk of infection for children who are unable to wear a face covering, physical distancing must be maintained whenever possible and staff must wear a face covering at all times, including when working with a child who is unable to wear a face covering.
Programs serving children who are deaf or hard of hearing are encouraged to consider the use of transparent face coverings to facilitate the reading of lips and facial expressions.
Staff-to-child ratios must be higher for programs serving children with special needs, given their need for more individualized attention.
Groupings for children with special needs must be assigned based on the developmental level of the child and the impact of the disability on the child with regard to their ability to adhere to PPE requirements and physical distancing rather than their chronological age.
Smaller groups must be formed where the child requires more hands on assistance and a higher number of staff required to care for the children. Some children with special needs will require 1:1 assistance. Programs must refer to individual treatment plans or IEPs when assessing required ratios.
Caring for Infants and Toddlers
Infants and toddlers will need to be held. Staff must practice stringent hygiene and infection control practices to keep themselves and the young children they care for healthy and safe while in care.
Staff who care for infants and toddlers should wear protective covering, like a long-sleeved, button down, oversized shirt over their clothing and wear long hair up or tied back during all activities requiring that a toddler is held.
Staff must change outer clothing if body fluids from the child get on it.
Staff must change the child’s clothing if body fluids get on it.
Soiled clothing must be placed in a plastic bag until it can be sent home with the child to be washed.
All staff must follow safe and sanitary diaper changing procedures. Procedures must be posted in all diaper changing areas, and must include:
Prepare (includes gathering all supplies, washing hands, and putting on gloves).
Clean the child.
Remove trash (soiled diaper, wipes, and gloves).
Wash hands. Put on clean gloves, if wearing.
Replace clean diaper.
Wash child’s hands.
Clean up diapering station.
Remove and dispose of gloves.
Wash hands.
During washing and feeding activities, staff must protect themselves by wearing a gown or other body covering (e.g., an oversized button-down, long sleeved shirt, etc.) and eye protection where available. Staff with long hair must tie their hair back so it is off the collar and away from the reach of the child.
Child care providers must wash their hands, neck, and anywhere touched by a child’s secretions.
Child care providers must change the child’s clothes if secretions are on the child’s clothes. They must change the button-down shirt, if there are secretions on it, and wash their hands again.
Contaminated clothes must be placed in a plastic bag or washed in a washing machine.
Infants and toddlers and their providers must have multiple changes of clothes on hand.
As infants and toddlers are not able to verbalize when they don’t feel well, staff must be attentive to any changes in a very young child’s behavior. If the child starts to look lethargic, and is not eating as well, staff must notify the parent to determine whether the child’s pediatrician must be contacted. If a toddler is showing signs of respiratory distress and having difficulty breathing, staff must call 911 and notify the parents immediately.
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, FDA, OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for reopening. Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every business has access to the resources necessary to meet these strict guidelines. For those businesses, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal, everyday cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Phase 2 Child Programs Minimum Requirements, Part 11
Child care and youth-serving programs remain a critical component in Governor Charlie Baker'soverall plan to reopenthe state of Massachusetts and get the residents of the Commonwealth back to work. This blog highlights the minimum requirements for general on strategies for reducing the risk of transmission of COVID-19 as well as transportation as outlined in Governor Baker's administration's guidelines for reopening child and youth programs.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
These requirements apply to all child and youth-serving programs, including recreational summer programs, recreational summer camps for children, municipal or recreational youth programs not traditionally licensed as camps, family child care, and center-based child care. As more is learned about the virus guidelines are updated accordingly. Those charged with planning to reopen child and youth programs should check the both the Massachusetts department ofEarly Education and Care (EEC) and the CDC websiteregularly to make sure that they are following the latest guidance.
Programs that are unable to must make the following changes to their operations or remain closed and reopen at a later date.
Strategies to Reduce the Risk of Transmission of COVID-19
Program managers and their staff must attempt to maintain at least 6 feet of distance at all times and limit contact between individuals and groups, whenever possible. When 6 feet is not possible, individuals should wear masks or cloth face coverings.
In order to encourage a distance of 6 feet between individuals, programs must have a minimum of 42 square feet per child, with 144 sq. ft. per child being the ideal to maintain proper physical distancing.
(2) Physical distancing must be encouraged for children and staff at all times, including but not limited to:
During transitions (e.g., waiting for bathrooms)
During meal times (e.g., if a cafeteria or group dining room is typically used, serve meals in classrooms instead. Put each child’s meal on a plate, to limit the use of shared serving utensils. If classroom must be used, clean and disinfect tables between meal shifts.)
While traveling to and from the outdoors
During all activities
During sleep, rest, or quiet play time (i.e. space out seating and bedding)
While using transportation (e.g., buses)
Limiting regular immediate contact (such as shaking or holding hands, hugging, or kissing), as well as by mediated contact.
Stagger drop offs/pick-ups
Store children’s belongings in a manner where they do not touch. Individually labeled storage containers, cubbies, or separate; designated areas must be used.
Stagger recess and play outside one group at a time.
Refrain from games and activities that encourage physical contact or proximity of less than 6 feet, like tag or circle time.
Spaces for children must be organized in a way that allows staff to enforce and maintain consistent physical distancing guidelines. Physically rearrange the room to promote individual play, including setting up individual play activity stations like puzzles and art. Space activity areas/centers as far apart as possible.
Ensure adequate supplies to minimize sharing of high touch materials to the extent possible (art supplies, equipment, etc. assigned to a single child per use) or limit use of supplies and equipment by one group of children at a time and clean and disinfect between uses. If possible, touchless trash cans should be utilized and located throughout the program space.
Limit gatherings, events, and extracurricular activities to those that can maintain physical distancing. Support proper hand hygiene. Do not host events that encourage non-essential adults to visit the program.
Close communal use spaces, such as game rooms or dining halls, if possible. If this is not possible, stagger use and disinfect in between uses or divide into two rooms. Programs may have multiple groups of ten, provided physical distancing is maintained between and within groups. When dividing rooms, create a clear barrier with cones, chairs, tables, etc. to ensure a minimum six feet of distance.
Where possible, arrange for administrative staff to telework from their homes.
Programs must limit travel off the premises for all children and staff. Programs must limit travel outside of the program, including canceling all field trips and inter-agency, or program, groups and activities. Hiking and outdoor activities may be conducted on program grounds.
Activities that require or may require direct staff support or close contact must not be conducted, except where necessary to support participation for children with special needs.
Limit the number of children permitted to use pool facilities at the same time. Determinations must consider how many people can be at the pool facility and still maintain 6 feet distancing.
Transportation
Group transportation should only be provided during the phased reopening when there is no other option to transport children to and from the program. Programs intending to provide transportation services shall follow the guidance below.
Parents must screen their children for symptoms prior to boarding a vehicle.
Physical distancing and group size requirements outlined above must be maintained while in transit. Because close seating on vehicles makes person-to-person transmission of respiratory viruses more likely, programs providing transportation to child care facilities must maximize space between riders (e.g., one rider per seat in every other row) and follow requirements for wearing masks or face coverings. Windows must be kept open.
If not possible nor comfortable to open windows, set ventilation system to high. Do not recirculate conditioned air.
Developing a Transportation Plan
Program managers and staff intending to provide transportation must develop a transportation plan for following health and safety protocols. Additional requirements are as follows.
Plans must include protocols for screening drivers, monitors, and/or children.
Plans must include strategies for transporting children that may have become sick but rely upon transportation provided by programs.
Plans must include strategies for minimizing the time children are in group transportation.
Plan must include schedule for routine cleaning of vehicles, detailed below.
Drivers and monitors must be trained on the transportation plan prior to reopening.
Prior to sending kids by bus, staff must perform at a minimum a visual wellness check and symptom screen.
Staff should assist children with washing or sanitizing hands upon arrival after exiting the bus, van, or vehicle and prior to departure before boarding the bus, van, or vehicle.
Screening Protocols
Designated staff must screen each driver and monitor before entering the vehicle following screening protocols. For a highlight of the minimum guidelines for screening protocols visit our previous blog by clicking, here.
Routine Cleaning of Vehicles
Program managers and staff must ensure the interior of each vehicle is be cleaned and either swept or vacuumed thoroughly after each morning and evening route and disinfected at least once each day.
Clean the area prior to disinfection to remove all surface matter.
Staff should be trained to use disinfectants in a safe and effective manner and to clean up potentially infectious materials and body fluid spills.
Precautions for Transportation Operators
Program managers and staff must make sure transportation operators take the following precautions when transporting children.
For transit operators, potential sources of exposure include having close contact with a vehicle passenger with COVID-19, by contacting surfaces touched or handled by a person with COVID-19, or by touching your mouth, nose, or eyes.
Request passengers avoid standing or sitting within 6 feet of the vehicle driver, wherever possible.
Drivers and monitors must wear masks or face coverings. Riders over the age of 2 should be encouraged to wear masks or face coverings. For highlights of the guidance regarding masks and face coverings visit our blog by clicking, here.
Avoid touching surfaces often touched by vehicle passengers.
Use gloves if required to touch surfaces contaminated by bodily fluids.
Proper hand hygiene is an important infection control measure. Wash your hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially:
After going to the bathroom
Before eating
After blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing
Upon entering and exiting the vehicle.
If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol.
Practice routine cleaning and disinfection of frequently touched surfaces, including surfaces in the driver cockpit commonly touched by the driver.
Ensure drivers and monitors have adequate supplies of soap, paper towels, tissues, hand sanitizers, cleaning supplies, and garbage bags.
Driver/Monitor Who Are Sick
If driver and/or monitor are sick, they must stay home and not come to work. Do not schedule them to work if they are sick.
Transportation for Children with Special Needs and Vulnerable Children
Program managers and staff must ensure the following transportation protocols are adhered to so as to ensure that children with special needs and vulnerable children who rely on transportation will be able to access program services.
Screenings must be conducted before children, vehicle drivers, and vehicle staff board the bus.
Transportation practices must adhere to physical distancing guidelines, as discussed above.
Vehicle drop off must be adjusted to meet physical distancing guidelines. Vehicles must off load and load one vehicle at a time, unless the location allows for enough distance between vehicles.
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, FDA, OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for reopening. Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every business has access to the resources necessary to meet these strict guidelines. For those businesses, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal, everyday cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Phase 2 Child Programs Minimum Requirements, Part 10
Child care and youth-serving programs remain a critical component in Governor Charlie Baker'soverall plan to reopenthe state of Massachusetts and get the residents of the Commonwealth back to work. To prepare for successful reopening of child care programs, recreational camps, and youth programs the Governor Baker's administration has developed minimum guidelines for reopening child and youth programs. The following highlights the minimum requirements for general cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfecting indoor and outdoor play areas, after potential exposure in day programs as well as additional considerations that should be taken.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
These requirements apply to all child and youth-serving programs, including recreational summer programs, recreational summer camps for children, municipal or recreational youth programs not traditionally licensed as camps, family child care, and center-based child care. As more is learned about the virus guidelines are updated accordingly. Those charged with planning to reopen child and youth programs should check the both the Massachusetts department ofEarly Education and Care (EEC) and the CDC websiteregularly to make sure that they are following the latest guidance.
Programs that are unable to must make the following changes to their operations or remain closed and reopen at a later date.
Cleaning, Sanitizing, and Disinfecting Indoor Play Areas
Program managers must have staff charged with cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfecting indoor play areas must follow these guidelines.
Children’s books, like other paper-based materials such as mail or envelopes, are not considered a high risk for transmission and do not need additional cleaning or disinfection procedures. Programs should conduct regular inspection and disposal of books or other paper-based materials that are heavily soiled or damaged.
Machine washable cloth toys cannot be used at all.
Toys that children have placed in their mouths or that are otherwise contaminated by body secretions or excretions must be set aside until they are cleaned by hand by a person wearing gloves. Clean with water and detergent, rinse, sanitize with an EPA-registered sanitizer, and air-dry or clean in a mechanical dishwasher.
For electronics, such as tablets, touch screens, keyboards, and remote controls, remove visible contamination if present. Consider putting a wipeable cover on electronics. Follow manufacturer’s instruction for cleaning and disinfecting. If no guidance, use alcohol-based wipes or sprays containing at least 70% alcohol. Wait in accordance with manufacturer’s directions and then dry surface thoroughly or allow to air dry. Provide cleaning materials for older children to clean their own electronics.
Cleaning, Sanitizing, and Disinfecting Outdoor Play Areas
Program managers must have staff charged with cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfecting outdoor play areas must follow these guidelines.
Communal parks and playgrounds must not be utilized. This includes public offsite playgrounds as well as playgrounds shared by multiple programs or houses. Playgrounds shared by multiple programs and houses may be used provided there is a plan for proper cleaning and disinfection between each group’s use.
High touch surfaces made of plastic or metal, including play structures, tables and benches, should be frequently cleaned and disinfected.
Cleaning and disinfection of wooden surfaces or groundcovers (mulch, sand) is not recommended.
Communal pools must not be utilized.
Programs may use their own indoor and outdoor swimming pools in accordance with guidance.
All pools must meet the regulatory requirements of the state of Massachusetts' sanitary codes for minimum standards for swimming pools as well as any additional more restrictive MA state or local requirements or orders in response to COVID-19.
Handrails and pool ladders must be disinfected frequently throughout the program day.
Cleaning, Sanitizing, and Disinfecting After Potential Exposure in Day Programs
If staff suspects a potential exposure, they must conduct cleaning and disinfecting as follows.
Close off areas visited by the ill persons. Open outside doors and windows and use ventilating fans to increase air circulation in the area. Wait 24 hours or as long as practical before beginning cleaning and disinfection.
Programs must plan for availability of alternative space while areas are out of use.
Cleaning staff must clean and disinfect all areas such as offices, bathrooms, common areas, shared electronic equipment (e.g., tablets, touch screens, keyboards) used by the ill persons, focusing especially on frequently touched surfaces.
Additional Considerations
The state requires that those managing child care and youth programs to consider the following precautions.
Staff clothing must not be worn again until after being laundered at the warmest temperature possible.
Programs shall follow CDC infection control guidelines designed to protect individuals from exposure to diseases spread by blood, bodily fluids, or excretions that may spread infectious disease.
Health precautions include, but are not limited to, the use of PPE, proper disposal containers for contaminated waste, handwashing and proper handling of bodily waste.
Non-latex gloves shall be provided and used for the clean-up of blood and bodily fluids
Used gloves and any other materials containing blood or other bodily fluids shall be thrown away in a lined, covered container. Only material saturated/dripping with blood is considered medical waste and must be stored and disposed of pursuant to the regulations. Materials such as band-aids, tissues and others with minimal blood are not considered medical waste
Contaminated clothing shall be sealed in a plastic container or bag, labeled with the child’s name, and returned to the parent at the end of the day
Sharps waste shall be stored and disposed of in appropriate sharps containers with the word biohazard and the universal biohazard symbol.
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, FDA, OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for reopening. Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every business has access to the resources necessary to meet these strict guidelines. For those businesses, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal, everyday cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
One of the most used rooms in your Ashland, MA, home is the bathroom. The fixtures within it get a lot of use, especially the toilet. Over time those fixtures can begin to stop working properly. When faced with a leaking toilet, it isn’t always easy to tell if a small fix will do or if it needs to be replaced.
Signs Its Time to Replace
Instead of waiting for a malfunctioning toilet to cause a massive water problem that requires a water and mold remediation expert, there are a few signs that may indicate a replacement is the best option.
Constant Repairs
If it seems like your old toilet needs repairs like clockwork, such as valves, a flapper, or handle, those little parts begin to add up. As well as avoiding the headache of the next repair, a new toilet can provide peace of mind and open your budget for other necessities.
Recurring Problem
Consistent clogs are a good indicator that your toilet is ready to be upgraded. Constant unclogging can create additional wear and wastes water whereas newer models are designed for stronger flushing.
Porcelain Cracks
A toilet repair is not an option if cracks begin to form. Although they can start as small slivers, they can quickly spread. This may lead to the toilet breaking and flooding in your home.
High Water Bills
If your home is equipped with older toilets, you may see an increase in your utility bills. Newer models are designed to use less water.
Replacing a Toilet
When faced with a constantly leaking toilet, replacement is likely the best solution. For those with a little home repair savvy, a replacement can be done on your own with a few simple tools. Before diving into the project, it is important to remove water from the toilet and turn off the main water supply during the replacement. Although not every leaking toilet may need to be replaced, consider the signs above to keep a big water problem from happening.
If your home has been damaged the experts at SERVPRO of Framingham can make it "Like it never even happened." Call us today, 508-370-4400!
Planning To Reopen - Phase 2 Child Programs Minimum Requirements, Part 9
Child care and youth-serving programs remain a critical component in Governor Charlie Baker'soverall plan to reopenthe state of Massachusetts and get the residents of the Commonwealth back to work. To prepare for successful reopening of child care programs, recreational camps, and youth programs the Governor Baker's administration has developed minimum guidelines for reopening child and youth programs. The following highlights the minimum requirements for general cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfecting.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
These requirements apply to all child and youth-serving programs, including recreational summer programs, recreational summer camps for children, municipal or recreational youth programs not traditionally licensed as camps, family child care, and center-based child care. As more is learned about the virus guidelines are updated accordingly. Those charged with planning to reopen child and youth programs should check the both the Massachusetts department ofEarly Education and Care (EEC) and the CDC websiteregularly to make sure that they are following the latest guidance.
Programs that are unable to must make the following changes to their operations or remain closed and reopen at a later date.
Cleaning, Sanitizing, and Disinfecting Resources and Supplies
The following is information about what supplies must be used for cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfecting.
Programs must use EPA-registered disinfectants and sanitizers for use against COVID-19. Follow directions on the label, including ensuring that the disinfectant or sanitizer is approved for that type of surface (such as food-contact surfaces).
When EPA-approved disinfectants are not available, a dilute bleach solution can be used. For example, add 1/3 cup of household bleach to 1 gallon of water OR 4 teaspoons of bleach per quart of water. Alternatively, a 70% alcohol can be applied.
All bleach and water dilutions must be freshly mixed every 24 hours. Bleach solutions must be prepared daily to ensure their ability to safely sanitize or disinfect. When preparing sanitizing or disinfecting dilutions always add bleach to water. This helps to avoid bleach splashes caused by adding water to bleach. Use either the sanitizing or the disinfecting dilution as specified above.
Many cleaning agents can be irritants and trigger acute symptoms in children with asthma or other respiratory conditions. Programs must not prepare cleaning solutions in close proximity to children.
Check the label to see if your bleach is intended for disinfection, and ensure the product is not past its expiration date. Unexpired household bleach will be effective against COVID-19 when properly diluted. Some bleaches, such as those designed for safe use on colored clothing or for whitening may not be suitable for disinfection.
Follow manufacturer’s instructions for application and proper ventilation. Never mix household bleach with ammonia or any other cleanser. Leave solution on the surface for at least 1 minute.
Programs shall use child-safe cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfecting solutions and children should never be present when mixing solutions.
Only single use, disposable paper towels shall be used for cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfecting. Sponges shall not be used for sanitizing or disinfecting.
All sanitizing and disinfecting solutions must be labeled properly to identify the contents, kept out of the reach of children, and stored separately from food items. Do not store sanitizing and disinfecting solutions in beverage containers.
Avoid aerosols, because they contain propellants that can affect breathing. Pump or trigger sprays are preferred.
Proper Usage of Cleaning, Sanitizing, and Disinfecting Supplies
Proper guidelines must be followed when cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfecting. Staff responsible for cleaning should understand and adhere to the proper use and application of all solutions used.
All sanitizing and disinfecting solutions must be used in areas with adequate ventilation and never in close proximity to children as to not trigger acute symptoms in children with asthma or other respiratory conditions. Do not spray chemicals around children. If possible, move children to another area or have someone distract them away from the area where a chemical is being used.
To ensure effective cleaning and disinfecting, always clean surfaces with soap and water first, then disinfect using a diluted bleach solution, alcohol solution with at least 70% alcohol, or an EPA approved disinfectant for use against the virus that causes COVID-19. Cleaning first will allow the disinfecting product to work as intended to destroy germs on the surface.
Use all cleaning products according to the directions on the label. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for concentration, application method, and contact time for all cleaning and disinfection products.
Surfaces and equipment must air dry after sanitizing or disinfecting. Do not wipe dry unless it is a product instruction. Careful supervision is needed to ensure that children are not able to touch the surface until it is completely dry.
Keep all chemicals out of the reach of children both during storage and in use.
Keep chemicals in their original containers. If this is not possible, label the alternate container to prevent errors.
Do not mix chemicals. Doing so can produce a toxic gas.
General Guidelines for Cleaning, Sanitizing, and Disinfecting
Program staff charged with cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfecting must follow these general guidelines.
Intensify the program’s routine cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfecting practices, paying extra attention to frequently touched objects and surfaces, including doorknobs, bathrooms and sinks, keyboards, and bannisters.
Clean and disinfect toys and activity items, including sports and specialty camp activity equipment (e.g. and climbing walls), used by children more frequently than usual and take extra care to ensure that all objects that children put in their mouths are removed from circulation, cleaned, and sanitized before another child is allowed to use it.
While cleaning and disinfecting, staff must wear gloves as much as possible. Handwashing or use of an alcohol-based hand sanitizer after these procedures is always required, whether or not gloves are used.
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, FDA, OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for reopening. Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every business has access to the resources necessary to meet these strict guidelines. For those businesses, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal, everyday cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Phase 2 Child Programs Minimum Requirements, Part 8
Child care and youth-serving programs are a critical component in Governor Charlie Baker'soverall plan to reopenthe state of Massachusetts and get the residents of the Commonwealth back to work. To prepare for reopening child care programs, recreational camps, and youth programs the administration has developed minimum guidelines for reopening child and youth programs. The following highlights the minimum requirements for personal protective equipment (PPE) and face masks or coverings.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
These requirements apply to all child and youth-serving programs, including recreational summer programs, recreational summer camps for children, municipal or recreational youth programs not traditionally licensed as camps, family child care, and center-based child care. As more is learned about the virus guidelines are updated accordingly. Those charged with planning to reopen child and youth programs should check the both the Massachusetts department ofEarly Education and Care (EEC) and the CDC websiteregularly to make sure that they are following the latest guidance.
Programs that are unable to must make the following changes to their operations or remain closed and reopen at a later date.
Face Masks and Coverings
Those managing the daily operations of childcare and youth programs should encourage the wearing of masks or cloth face coverings during the program day. Whenever 6 feet of physical distancing is not possible, masks must be worn.
To slow the spread of COVID-19, program staff are encouraged to wear a cloth face covering while serving children and interacting with parents and families. Program staff are required to wear a cloth face covering whenever 6 feet of physical distancing is not possible. Programs are encouraged to consider the use of transparent face coverings to allow for the reading of facial expressions, which is important for child development.
When possible and at the discretion of the parent or guardian of the child, programs should encourage the wearing of masks or cloth face coverings for children age 2 and older who can safely and appropriately wear, remove, and handle masks. Additional guidance on use of face coverings and masks by children is as follows:
Children under the age of 2 years should not wear face coverings or masks.
When children can be safely kept at least 6 feet away from others, then they do not need to be encouraged to wear a mask.
Masks must not be worn while children are eating/drinking, sleeping, and napping. Strict and consistent physical distancing must be practiced at all times during these activities. Masks do not need to be worn while engaging in active outdoor play, if children are able to keep physical distance from others.
Children 2 years of age and older must be supervised when wearing a mask. If wearing the face covering causes the child to touch their face more frequently, staff must reconsider whether the mask is appropriate for the child.
Families should provide their children with a sufficient supply of clean masks and face coverings for their child to allow replacing the covering as needed. These families must have a plan for routine cleaning of masks and face coverings, clearly mark masks with child’s name and room number, if applicable, and clearly distinguish which side of the covering should be worn facing outwards so they are worn properly each day. If families are unable to provide masks, programs should provide masks for children and youth, as necessary. Masks and face coverings must be routinely washed (at least daily and any time the mask is used or becomes soiled) depending on the frequency of use. When possible, masks must be washed in a washing machine in hot water and dried fully before using again. If a washing machine is unavailable, masks must be washed with soap and hot water and allowed to dry fully before using again.
If using a disposable mask, follow CDC guidance on proper daily removal. Grasp bottom ties or elastics of the mask, then the ones at the top, and remove without touching the front. Discard in a waste container and wash hands or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer immediately.
Staff must enforce the wearing of face masks by parents or guardians when on the premises and at all times during drop-off and pick-up. Programs must regularly remind families and staff that all individuals are encouraged to adhere to the CDC’s recommendations for wearing a mask or cloth face covering whenever going out in public and/or around other people.
Staff must teach and reinforce use of cloth face coverings among all program staff. Face coverings are most essential at times when physical distancing is not possible. Staff must be frequently reminded not to touch the face covering and to wash their hands frequently. Information must be provided to all staff on proper use, removal, and washing of cloth face coverings.
Exceptions to Use of Face Masks/Coverings
Exceptions for wearing face masks include situations that may inhibit an individual from wearing a face mask safely. These may include, but are not limited to:
Children under the age of 2 years
Children who cannot safely and appropriately wear, remove, and handle masks
Children who have difficulty breathing with the face covering or who are unconscious, incapacitated, or otherwise unable to remove the cover without assistance
Children with severe cognitive or respiratory impairments that may have a hard time tolerating a face mask
Children where the only option for a face covering presents a potential choking or strangulation hazard
Individuals who cannot breathe safely with a face covering, including those who require supplemental oxygen to breathe
Individuals who, due to a behavioral health diagnosis or an intellectual impairment, are unable to wear a face covering safely
Individuals who need to communicate with people who rely upon lip-reading.
When to Use Gloves
Staff must wear gloves when appropriate and at all times during the following activities. Program managers should consult with a child’s medical records and identify any allergies when determining type of gloves to use. Handwashing or use of an alcohol-based hand sanitizer before and after these procedures is always required, whether or not gloves are used.
Diapering
Food preparation
Screening activities requiring contact
Applying sunscreen.
After removing gloves for any reason, hand hygiene should be performed with alcohol-based hand sanitizer or soap and water. Additionally, as a means to reduce cross-contamination, disposable gloves should always be discarded after the following instances.
Visible soiling or contamination with blood, respiratory or nasal secretions, or other body fluids occurs.
Any signs of damage (e.g., holes, rips, tearing) or degradation are observed.
Maximum of four hours of continuous use.
Disposable glove “re-use” is not permitted as previously removed gloves have an increased risk of both tearing and contamination.
Gloves should be removed following activities where glove usage is required including diapering, food preparation, applying sunscreen, and screening activities requiring contact.
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, FDA, OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for reopening. Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every business has access to the resources necessary to meet these strict guidelines. For those businesses, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal, everyday cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Remediation is only the first step towards recovery from disaster. Rebuilding the damaged property is what makes our clients whole. SERVPRO of Framingham is a one-stop, remediation to rebuild shop that can handle both stages of the project. We have licensed Residential and Commercial contractors on staff. Having an in-house Reconstruction Department allows us to offer our clients a single point of contact for the duration of the project. Our Disaster Recovery Team works collaboratively with our Rebuild Team to offer a streamlined, continuous project timeline and a seamless transition between project phases, saving our clients both time and money. Our Rebuild Teams does not only finish the jobs our Remediation Teams start they also take on rebuild only and renovation jobs too.
During one of the many early spring wind storms a tree broke in half. Unfortunately, the tree fell onto the roof of this Ashland, MA home destroying the roof, half of the second floor, part of the deck and the top of the chimney too! Having previously done work for the homeowner they called us for a trusted referral. Needless to say they were pleasantly surprised to learn that we are now a full service shop, staffed with craftsmen in all areas of construction. Our Rebuild Team Project Manager was onsight within a few short hours after receiving the call. After surveying the damage he assured the homeowner that we could handle the job. This picture shows the project halfway complete. The roof and exterior sheathing of the second floor has been repaired and scaffolding is in place to begin repair of the top of the chimney.
If you need work done on your residential or commercial property call the rebuild experts at SERVPRO of Framingham today at (508) 370-4400. We will make it, "Like it never even happened."
Planning To Reopen - Phase 2 Child Programs Minimum Requirements, Part 7
Governor Charlie Baker believes that, "one way you reduce the size of the problem that you have in the fall is by doing everything you can to squeeze as much of the heat out of the virus as you possibly can between now and then." Due to this belief, the beginning of Phase 3 of his plan to reopenthe state of Massachusetts has been delayed for at least one week and will start no sooner than July 6. In preparation for the beginning of Phase 3 we will continue to share the administration's minimum guidelines for reopening child and youth programsas the preparedness of these programs is vital to the overall success of reopening the Commonwealth. The following highlights the minimum requirements for acceptable hygiene and health practices.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
These requirements apply to all child and youth-serving programs, including recreational summer programs, recreational summer camps for children, municipal or recreational youth programs not traditionally licensed as camps, family child care, and center-based child care. As more is learned about the virus guidelines are updated accordingly. Those charged with planning to reopen child and youth programs should check the both the Massachusetts department ofEarly Education and Care (EEC) and the CDC websiteregularly to make sure that they are following the latest guidance.
Programs that are unable to must make the following changes to their operations or remain closed and reopen at a later date.
Resources and Supplies
Child care and youth program managers must plan ahead to ensure that the program has adequate supplies to promote frequent and effective hygiene behaviors. Programs must have the following materials and supplies:
Handwashing facilities with soap, water, and disposable paper towels must be readily accessible to all children and staff. Post handwashing instructions near every handwashing sink and where they can easily be seen by children and staff. (2)
Hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol may be utilized at times when handwashing is not available, as appropriate to the ages of children and only with written parent permission to use.6 Hand sanitizer must be stored securely and used only under supervision of staff. Staff must make sure children do not put hands wet with sanitizer in their mouth and must teach children proper use. 6 While hand sanitizer may be used by children over 2 years of age with parental permission, handwashing is the preferred and safer method.
Hand hygiene stations must be set up at the entrance of the premises, so that children can clean their hands before they enter. If a sink with soap and water is not available, provide hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol next to parent sign-in sheets and allow use in accordance with the guidelines above. If hand sanitizer use is not appropriate or not approved and there is no soap and water at the entrance, children must be instructed to go to the nearest handwashing station upon entry. Keep hand sanitizer out of children’s reach and supervise use.
If possible, place sign-in stations outside the program space and have contactless sign in, such as application or web based. If pens are required, they must be disinfected between uses or must be provided for individual only use.
When to Wash Hands
Children and staff must wash their hands or use hand sanitizer often, making sure to wash all surfaces of their hands (e.g., front and back, wrists, between fingers). Reinforce to staff and children that they must be regularly washing their hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds and should wash hands whenever the following criteria are met:
Upon entry into and exit from program space
When coming in to the program space from outside activities
Before and after eating
After sneezing, coughing or nose blowing
After toileting and diapering
Before handling food
After touching or cleaning surfaces that may be contaminated
After using any shared equipment like toys, computer keyboards, mouse, climbing walls
After assisting children with handwashing;
Before and after administration of medication
Before entering vehicles used for transportation of children
After contact with facemask or cloth face covering
Before and after changes of gloves.
Cover Coughs or Sneezes
Children, families, and staff should avoid touching their eyes, nose, and mouth. Cover coughs or sneezes with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash and clean hands with soap and water or hand sanitizer (if soap and water are not readily available and with parental permission and careful supervision as appropriate to the ages of the child).
Additional Healthy Habits
Child care and youth program managers are encouraged to teach, model, and reinforce the following healthy habits with both staff and children.
Staff must know and follow the steps needed for effective handwashing (use soap and water to wash all surfaces of their hands for at least 20 seconds, wait for visible lather, rinse thoroughly and dry with individual disposable towel).
Build in monitored handwashing for children at all necessary times throughout the day (e.g., upon arrival, before and after meals, after toileting and diapering, after coughing and sneezing, after contact with bodily fluids). Post visual steps of appropriate handwashing to assist children or cue them to sing the "Happy Birthday" song TWICE (approx. 20 seconds) as the length of time they need to wash their hands.
Assist children with handwashing.
Keep hand sanitizer out of the reach of children and monitor use closely. Due to its high alcohol content, ingesting hand sanitizer can be toxic for a child. Supervise children when they use hand sanitizer to make sure they rub their hands until completely dry, so they do not get sanitizer in their eyes or mouth.
Explain to children why it is not healthy to share drinks or food, particularly when sick.
Teach children to use tissue to wipe their nose and to cough inside their elbow. They must wash their hands with soap and water immediately afterwards.
Ask parents and caregivers to wash their own hands and assist in washing the hands of their children before dropping off, prior to coming for pick up, and when they get home.
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, FDA, OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for reopening. Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every business has access to the resources necessary to meet these strict guidelines. For those businesses, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal, everyday cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Planning To Reopen - Phase 2 Child Programs Minimum Requirements, Part 6
Even though we learned that Governor Charlie Baker has delayed the beginning of Phase 3 of his plan to reopenthe Commonwealth for at least one week there is still work to be done. We will continue to share the administration's minimum guidelines for reopening child and youth programsas the preparedness of these programs is vital to the overall success of reopening the state of Massachusetts. The following highlights the minimum requirements for isolation and discharge of sick children and or staff.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
These requirements apply to all child and youth-serving programs, including recreational summer programs, recreational summer camps for children, municipal or recreational youth programs not traditionally licensed as camps, family child care, and center-based child care. As more is learned about the virus guidelines are updated accordingly. Those charged with planning to reopen child and youth programs should check the both the Massachusetts department ofEarly Education and Care (EEC) and the CDC websiteregularly to make sure that they are following the latest guidance.
Programs that are unable to must make the following changes to their operations or remain closed and reopen at a later date.
Isolation and Discharge
Programs must take the following actions to prepare for a potential exposure.
Designate a separate space to isolate children or staff who may become sick, with the door closed (or a solid barrier) if possible. Isolated children must be supervised at all times. A private or separate bathroom must be made available for use by sick individuals only. Others must not enter isolation room/space without PPE appropriate to the care setting. A location with an open window and/or good air circulation is optimal. In family child care settings with one adult, staff should isolate children who may become sick using a barrier to maintain adequate supervision of all children.
If your facility does not have designated isolation rooms/spaces, determine a pre-specified location/facility to which you will be sending patients presenting with COVID-19 symptoms.
Have an emergency back-up plan for staff coverage in case a child or staff becomes sick.
Know the contact information for the local board of health in the city or town in which the program is located.
Have masks and other cloth face coverings available for use by children and staff who become symptomatic, until they have left the premises of the program.
Designate a separate exit from the exit used to regularly exit for those being discharged due to suspected infection.
Symptomatic - Children
If a child becomes symptomatic, programs must follow the protocols below:
Immediately isolate from other children and minimize exposure to staff.
Whenever possible, cover children’s (age 2 and older) noses and mouths with a mask or cloth face covering.
Contact the child’s parents and have the child picked up as soon as possible.
Follow the program’s plan for the transportation of a child who has developed symptoms and who relies on program transportation.
Symptomatic - Staff
If a staff member becomes symptomatic, they must cease child care duties immediately and be removed from others until they can leave. Staff must regularly self-monitor during the day to screen for new symptoms. If new symptoms are detected among a staff member, follow the requirements above for Isolation and Discharge and Symptomatic - Children.
Sick Children or Staff
Children and or Staff who are COVID-19 positive or symptomatic and presumed to have COVID-19 must not return until they have met the criteria for discontinuing home isolation and have consulted with a health care provider. Determine the date of symptom onset for the child/staff. Determine if the child/staff attended/worked at the program while symptomatic or during the two days before symptoms began. Identify what days the child/staff attended/worked during that time to determine all who had close contact with the sick individual during those days.
If an individual tests positive for COVID-19 but is asymptomatic, isolation may be discontinued when at least 10 days have passed from the date of the positive test, as long as the individual remains asymptomatic.
Notifying Required Parties
In the event that a program experiences an exposure, programs must notify the following parties.
Employees and families about exposure but maintain confidentiality.
Local board of health if a child or staff is COVID-19 positive.
Funding and licensing agencies if a child or staff member has tested positive.
Self-Isolating
In the event that a staff member or child is exposed or has potentially been exposed to a sick or symptomatic person, the following protocols must be followed.
If a child or staff has been exposed to COVID-19, regardless of whether the individual has symptoms or not, the child or staff must not be permitted to enter the program space and must be sent home. Exposed individuals must be directed to stay home for at least 14 days after the last day of contact with the person who is sick. The program must consult the local board of health for guidance on quarantine for other children and staff and what additional precautions will be needed to ensure the program space is safe for continued child care services.
If an exposed child or staff subsequently tests positive or their doctor says they have confirmed or probable COVID-19, they must be directed to stay home for a minimum of 10 days from the 1st day of symptoms appearing AND be fever-free for 72 hours without fever reducing medications AND experience significant improvements in symptoms. Release from isolation is under the jurisdiction of the local board of health where the individual resides.
If a child’s household member or staff’s household member tests positive for COVID-19, the child or staff must self-quarantine for 14 days after the last time they could have been exposed.
Quarantine
If an exposed child or staff remains asymptomatic and/or tests negative for COVID-19 they must remain in quarantine and continue to monitor for the full 14 days.
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, FDA, OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for reopening. Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every business has access to the resources necessary to meet these strict guidelines. For those businesses, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal, everyday cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together!
Planning To Reopen - Phase 2 Child Programs Minimum Requirements, Part 5
This is the fifth blog detailing the minimum guidelines for reopening child and youth programs. We are in Phase 2 of Governor Charlie Baker'splan to reopenthe state of Massachusetts. It is important to note that these are minimum requirements to reopen. Contact the Massachusetts department ofEarly Education and Care (EEC)to identify any additional guidelines that may impact your program's ability to reopen. It is also a good idea to work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
Minimum Requirements - Screening and Monitoring of Children and Staff
These requirements apply to all child and youth-serving programs, including recreational summer programs, recreational summer camps for children, municipal or recreational youth programs not traditionally licensed as camps, family child care, and center-based child care. As more is learned about the virus guidelines are updated accordingly. Those charged with planning to reopen child and youth programs should check the both the Massachusetts department ofEarly Education and Care (EEC) and the CDC websiteregularly to make sure that they are following the latest guidance.
Programs that are unable to must make the following changes to their operations or remain closed and reopen at a later date.
Screening
Programs must screen all staff and children, every day, before they are permitted to enter the child care space following the requirements below.
Establish a single point of entry to the program to ensure that no individual is allowed to enter the building until they successfully pass the screening.
Designate specific program staff to conduct all screening activities, and establish a designated screening area (e.g., a side room or enclosed area close to the point of entry) that will allow for more privacy in order to ask questions confidentially. Unless a physical barrier, such as a plexiglass screen, is used, the space used for screening must allow for physical distancing of childcare staff from child/family while screening is being conducted (i.e. at least 6 feet of separation).
Health check responses must be recorded and maintained on file.
Verbally screen children and parents asking the following questions. If any of the below are yes, the child must not be allowed to enter the building. The child must return home with their parent or caregiver.
Today or in the past 24 hours, have you or any household members had any of the following symptoms?
Fever (temperature of 100.0?F or above), felt feverish, or had chills?
Fatigue? (Fatigue alone should not exclude a child from participation.)
Headache?
New loss of smell/taste?
New muscle aches?
Any other signs of illness?
In the past 14 days, have you had close contact (being within 6 feet of an individual who has tested positive for COVID-19 for more than 10 minutes) with a person known to be infected with the novel COVID-19?
Staff must make a visual inspection of each child for signs of illness, which could include flushed cheeks, rapid breathing or difficulty breathing (without recent physical activity), fatigue, or extreme fussiness. Confirm that the child is not experiencing coughing or shortness of breath. In the event a child is experiencing shortness of breath or extreme difficulty breathing, call emergency medical services immediately.
All staff, parents, children, and any individuals seeking entry into the program space must be directed to self-screen at home, prior to coming to the program for the day. If the program is a family child care program, all household members must self-screen before coming into the child care space.
Self-screening shall include checking for symptoms including fever, cough, shortness of breath, gastrointestinal symptoms, new loss of taste/smell, muscle aches, or any other symptoms that feel like a cold. Anyone with a fever of 100.0?F or above or any other signs of illness must not be permitted to enter the program.
Parents and staff must sign written attestations daily regarding any household contacts with COVID-19, symptoms (e.g., fever, sore throat, cough, shortness of breath, loss of smell or taste, or diarrhea), or if they have given children medicine to lower a fever.
Individuals who decline to complete the screening will not be permitted to enter the program space.
Regular Monitoring
Staff must actively visually monitor children throughout the day for symptoms of any kind, including fever, cough, shortness of breath, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting, abdominal pain, and unexplained rash. Children who appear ill or are exhibiting signs of illness must be separated from the larger group and isolated until able to leave the facility. Programs must have a non-contact or temporal thermometer on site to check temperatures if a child is suspected of having a fever (temperature above 100 degrees F). Special care must be taken to disinfect the thermometer after each use.
If any child or staff appears to have severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately. Before transferring to a medical facility, notify the transfer team and medical facility if the individual is suspected to have COVID-19. Severe symptoms include the following: extreme difficulty breathing (i.e. not being able to speak without gasping for air), bluish lips or face, persistent pain or pressure in the chest, severe persistent dizziness or lightheadedness, new confusion or inability to rouse someone, or new seizure or seizures that won’t stop.
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, FDA, OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for reopening. Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every business has access to the resources necessary to meet these strict guidelines. For those businesses, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal, everyday cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together!
Planning To Reopen - Phase 2 Child Programs Minimum Requirements, Part 4
While it is our hope that the information we have, and will continue to share, is beneficial to the business community of the Commonwealth it is important to note that this particular topic is intended to help parents as well. This blog (and past blogs) should be used as a baseline for parents to use when choosing a provider to ensure that the environment they are placing their children into is indeed a safe one.The following highlights the minimum requirements for group sizes and staffing ratios.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
Minimum Requirements - Group Size and Staffing Ratios
These requirements apply to all child and youth-serving programs, including recreational summer programs, recreational summer camps for children, municipal or recreational youth programs not traditionally licensed as camps, family child care, and center-based child care. As more is learned about the virus guidelines are updated accordingly. Those charged with planning to reopen child and youth programs should check the both the Massachusetts department ofEarly Education and Care (EEC) and the CDC websiteregularly to make sure that they are following the latest guidance.
Programs that are unable to must make the following changes to their operations or remain closed and reopen at a later date.
Group Sizes
Group sizes must be restricted to a maximum of 10 children. If additional adults are required to support supervision of children during breaks, they must be assigned to only one cohort of children and not between cohorts. Guidance to maintain these group sizes includes the following:
Children must remain with the same group each day and at all times while in care.
When suitable to children’s ages and developmental level, siblings in attendance at the same time must be kept in the same group.
Groups must not be combined at any time.
The same staff must be assigned to the same group of children each day for the duration of the program session (if weekly or monthly) and at all times while in care. Staff must not float between groups either during the day or from day-to-day, unless needed to provide supervision of specialized activities.
Required Staffing Ratios and Maximum Group Sizes
In order to provide the level of supervision required to adhere to the following health and safety requirements, the following child-to-staff ratios must be maintained at all times during the program day. Number of adults assigned to each cohort of children should be minimized, appropriate to the needs of the program and the children. Most importantly, adults should not move between cohorts of children. The following guidance does not apply to caring for children with special needs.
Infant (Birth – 14 months)
1 adult for every 3 infants or 2 adults for every 7 infants
Maximum group size 7
Toddler (15 – 32 months)
1 adult for every 4 toddlers or 2 adults for every 9 toddlers
1 adult for every 10 preschoolers, however, it is recommended to have the maximum number of adults possible
Maximum group size 10
School Age (Attending Kindergarten and up)
1 adult for every 10 school age children
Maximum group size 10
Family Child Care and Multi-Age** (All Age Groups)
1 adult for every 6 children or 2 adults for every 8 children
Maximum group size 8
** Multi-age groups may include no more than three children younger than two years old, including at least one toddler who is walking independently. Additional children must be older than 24 months.
Supporting Children with Special Needs
Children with special needs will require unique supports in programs that may make it less possible to practice physical distancing and will require ample staff support to carry out the necessary hygiene practices. Programs must ensure that the program is adequately staffed and that staff are prepared and properly trained to accommodate children’s needs.
Staff-to-child ratios must be higher for programs serving children with special needs, given their need for more individualized attention.
Groupings for children with special needs must be assigned based on the developmental level of the child and the impact of the disability on the child with regard to their ability to adhere to PPE requirements and physical distancing rather than their chronological age.
Smaller groups must be formed where the child requires more hands on assistance and a higher number of staff required to care for the children.
Some children with special needs will require 1:1 assistance.
Programs must refer to individual treatment plans or IEPs when assessing required ratios.
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, FDA, OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for reopening. Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every business has access to the resources necessary to meet these strict guidelines. For those businesses, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal, everyday cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together!
Planning To Reopen - Phase 2 Child Programs Minimum Requirements, Part 3
These requirements apply to all child and youth-serving programs, including recreational summer programs, recreational summer camps for children, municipal or recreational youth programs not traditionally licensed as camps, family child care, and center-based child care. As more is learned about the virus guidelines are updated accordingly. Those charged with planning to reopen child and youth programs should check the both the Massachusetts department ofEarly Education and Care (EEC) and the CDC websiteregularly to make sure that they are following the latest guidance.
Programs that are unable to must make the following changes to their operations or remain closed and reopen at a later date.
Daily Operations
Cancel all field trips, inter-group events, and extracurricular activities.
Avoid holding activities involving multiple groups attending at the same time and strictly enforce the restrictions on non-essential visitors. This includes parent volunteers, coaches and consultants. Nonessential adults must be prevented from entering the premises.
For each child enrolled, programs must maintain on file a physician’s, nurse practitioner’s, or physician’s assistant’s certification that the child has been successfully immunized in accordance with the current DPH’s recommended schedules.
For each child with a chronic medical condition that has been diagnosed by a licensed Health Care Practitioner, programs must maintain an individual health care plan (IHCP). The plan shall describe the chronic condition, its symptoms, any medical treatment that may be necessary while the child is in care, the potential side effects of that treatment, and the potential consequences to the child’s health if the treatment is not administered.
Staffing
Programs must meet all staffing requirements per the authorizing entity for their specific program type. Staffing requirements for child and youth-serving summer programs may be relaxed for reopening under the authority of the authorizing entity.
Provide staff with information about COVID-19, including how the illness is spread, how to prevent its spread, symptoms, and when to seek medical assistance for sick children or employees.
Have a system to monitor absenteeism to identify any trends in employee or child absences due to illness, as this might indicate spread of COVID-19 or other illness.
Have a plan for securing trained back-up staff in order to maintain sufficient staffing levels.
Ensure that their sick leave policies are flexible and promote the importance of staff not coming to work if they have a frequent cough, sneezing, fever, difficulty breathing, chills, muscle pain, headache, sore throat, or recent loss of taste or smell, or if they or someone they live with has been diagnosed with COVID-19.
Designate a staff member to be responsible for responding to COVID-19 concerns. Employees must know who this person is and how to contact them.
Create a communication system for staff and families for self-reporting of symptoms and notification of exposures and closures.
Encourage all staff age 65 or older or with serious underlying health conditions to talk to their healthcare provider to assess their risk and to determine if they must stay home or follow additional precautions.
Train staff in all areas to ensure protocols are implemented safely and effectively in all programs.
Develop policies for worker protection and provide training to all cleaning staff on site prior to providing cleaning tasks. Training must include when to use PPE, what PPE is necessary, how to properly put on, use, and take off PPE, and how to properly dispose of PPE.
Ensure workers are trained on the hazards of the cleaning chemicals used in the workplace in accordance with Occupational Safety Hazard Administration (OSHA)’s Hazard Communication standard (29 CFR 1910.1200). (12)
Educate staff and workers performing cleaning, laundry, and trash pick-up activities to recognize the symptoms of COVID-19 and provide instructions on what to do if they develop symptoms. At a minimum, any staff must immediately notify their supervisor and the local health department if they develop symptoms of COVID-19. The health department will provide guidance on what actions need to be taken.
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, FDA, OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for reopening. Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every business has access to the resources necessary to meet these strict guidelines. For those businesses, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal, everyday cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together!
Planning To Reopen - Phase 2 Child Programs Minimum Requirements, Part 2
As the we continue to advance through the second phase of Governor Charlie Baker's plan to reopen the Commonwealth it becomes increasingly important to develop guidelines that focus on the health ans safety of our communities while allowing for the needs of families with children to be met. The state has set forth guidance for reopening child and youth programs during Phase 2.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
These requirements apply to all child and youth-serving programs, including recreational summer programs, recreational summer camps for children, municipal or recreational youth programs not traditionally licensed as camps, family child care, and center-based child care. Programs should also check the CDC websiteregularly to make sure that they are following the latest CDC guidance.
Programs that are unable to adhere to the following requirements must remain closed and reopen at a later date.
Preparing
Programs must prepare the program environment to promote the new health and safety requirements and to facilitate infection control activities.
Prepare the materials and equipment to be used by children to minimize sharing and promote distancing. Remove items that cannot be easily washed (e.g., stuffed animals, pillows) or that encourage children to put the toy in their mouths (e.g., play food, pretend utensils). If programs allow children to bring in items from home, they should have a plan in place to ensure the cleanliness of these items and should carefully monitor use to ensure that these objects are not shared between children. Shared items that cannot be cleaned or disinfected at all (e.g., playdough) must be removed from activity rotation. Remove all communal water, sand, and sensory tables and activities that bring children in close proximity with each other using shared materials.
Prepare all cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfecting solutions and identify a safe place for storage that is accessible to staff in each area of the program, but out of reach of children. Ensure that supplies for hand hygiene are adequate and placed appropriately throughout the program space, including in all group, transition (e.g., hallways), and common spaces.
Prepare the program space to promote physical distancing. Programs must consider the physical building capacity limitations and the total number of children anticipated to be in any one area. Decisions about organization of the program space must be guided by the program’s ability to implement adequate and consistent physical distancing, especially in terms of utilization of common spaces that need to be shared by all children. Areas occupied by individual groups must be defined by permanent walls, movable walls, or other partitions. Programs with large spaces must consider using barriers to create clearly defined and separate areas for small groups of children. Program staff must review the physical distancing requirements for children in the program and be prepared to support children with adjustment to new systems and routines.
Ensure that there are adequate provisions for the storage of child and staff belongings so that they do not touch.
Close drinking fountains that require contact for use. Motion activated or touchless drinking fountains are acceptable for use only when filling cups, water bottles, or other receptacles.
Ensure that ventilation systems operate properly and increase circulation of outdoor air as much as possible by opening windows and doors, using fans (must be inaccessible to young children), and other methods. Do not open windows and doors if doing so poses a safety or health risk (e.g., allows pollen in or exacerbates asthma symptoms) to children using the facility. In rooms located above the first floor, windows must be either inaccessible to children or protected with a window guard.
Take steps to ensure that all water systems and features (e.g., cooling systems) are safe to use after a prolonged facility shutdown to minimize the risk of Legionnaires’ disease and other diseases associated with water.
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, FDA, OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for reopening. Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every business has access to the resources necessary to meet these strict guidelines. For those businesses, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal, everyday cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together!
Planning To Reopen - Phase 2 Child Programs Minimum Requirements
Phase 2 has been divided into two parts. Beginning today, Monday, June 8, child care may begin the process of opening reopen under certain restrictions including, but not limited to COVID-19 Order No. 35, former COVID-19 Orders and sector-specific COVID-19 workplace safety rules .
Minimum Requirements - Planning
These requirements apply to all child and youth-serving programs, including recreational summer programs, recreational summer camps for children, municipal or recreational youth programs not traditionally licensed as camps, family child care, and center-based child care.
EEC licensing regulations are currently being reviewed and amended to allow programs the maximum flexibility to reopen, until such time, implementation of the Minimum Health and Safety Requirements are sufficient for reopening programs in good standing prior to the closure due to COVID-19. In addition to the following requirements, it is recommended that programs frequently check the CDC website to ensure they are implementing the most current CDC guidance.
Programs that are unable to adhere to the following requirements must remain closed and reopen at a later date.
Planning
Programs must develop plans prior to reopening (and maintain them once reopened) to address how they will meet the new health and safety requirements. Programs must identify all the ways reopening during the COVID-19 pandemic might affect the program and develop a plan of action. Elements of this planning must include the following:
A cleaning plan that identifies what items must be cleaned, sanitized, or disinfected and with what frequency. This must include a daily cleaning schedule for staff (before, during, and after programming) to ensure that all areas, materials, furniture, and equipment used for child care are properly cleaned, sanitized, or disinfected. Programs must also have a plan in place to obtain and maintain inventory of essential cleaning supplies.
A plan for identifying and handling sick, symptomatic, and exposed children and staff that includes but is not limited to daily screening checks, location of screening activities, staff responsible for screening, and barriers for screening.
A plan for the isolation and discharge of sick, symptomatic, and exposed children or staff, including procedures for contacting parents immediately, criteria for seeking medical assistance, transportation of children or staff who have developed symptoms related to COVID-19 mid-day and who rely on program transportation, and mitigation of transmission until a sick individual can safely leave the program.
A plan to work with their local and state health departments to ensure appropriate local protocols and guidelines are followed, such as updated/additional guidance for cleaning and disinfection and instructions and availability of COVID-19 testing.
A plan for safe vendor deliveries, if applicable. Non-contact delivery protocols must be arranged whenever possible.
A plan for transportation that includes how to implement infection control strategies during transportation, including during boarding and disembarking, and a plan to maintain physical distancing and hand hygiene practices.
A plan for handling program closings, staff absences, and gaps in child attendance. The plan must include procedures to alert local health officials about large increases in child and staff absences or substantial increases in respiratory illnesses (like the common cold or the “flu,” which have symptoms similar to symptoms of COVID-19). Programs must determine how the facility will communicate with staff and parents and identify who will be responsible to inform the funding agency, local board of health, and other appropriate audiences.
A plan for the administration of medication including a plan for the treatment of children with asthma and other chronic illness. Nebulizer use must be prohibited as it can increase risk of the virus being aerosolized.
A plan for coordinating space and facilitate support services for children, including when identified on an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP). A space should be made available to allow for service delivery to occur, whenever possible.
A plan for sharing information and guidelines with parents that includes the following:
A system to check with parents daily on the status of their children when children are dropped off at the facility.
Ensuring information and communication can be provided in the primary languages spoken by the parents.
Obtaining email addresses and home, work, and mobile phone numbers from parents of children at the program so that the program can reach them at any time.
Creating and testing communication systems with parents, children at the program, all staff, facility and/or grounds management, and emergency medical services.
Providing parents with information on COVID-19 including symptoms, transmission, prevention, and when to seek medical attention. Encouraging parents to share the information with their children as appropriate.
Providing parents with guidance on how to share information with their children in developmentally appropriate ways and encouraging parents to share the information with their children, as appropriate.
Providing parents with information on the program’s policies for preventing and responding to infection and illness.
Identifying a person responsible for sharing information to parents if and when an exposure occurs, and how that information will be communicated.
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, FDA, OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for reopening. Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every business has access to the resources necessary to meet these strict guidelines. For those businesses, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal, everyday cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together!
Planning To Reopen - Phase 2 Health and Human Services
As we begin the second phase of Governor Charlie Baker's plan to reopen the Commonwealth it becomes increasingly important that, while we continue to move towards normal, we are aware of the risks inherent of doing so and remain vigilant in our fight against COVID-19. In part one of Phase 2 health care, behavioral health, dental and vision practitioners are allowed to incrementally resume certain in-person visits.
Health care providers may incrementally resume in-person elective, non-urgent procedures and services, including routine office visits, dental visits, and vision care, subject to ongoing compliance with public health and safety standards. All other in-person medical, behavioral health, dental and vision services may resume, except for elective cosmetic procedures and in-person day programs (currently slated to resume as part of Phase 3).
Expanding in-person visitation should be done cautiously. The decision to do so should be determined solely on clinical judgment and any care that can be appropriately delivered via telehealth should not resume in-person. Priority should go to urgent services, chronic disease management, and preventive care and should promote equitable access to care for all.
According to these guidelines in order to resume services, health care providers must attest to and meet a range of infection control and public health criteria for how they deliver services:
In order to provide non-emergency care, health care providers must attest to continuing to meet specific requirements to reopen or expand services including adequate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), infection control readiness, screening for COVID symptoms, and social distancing protocols. These attestation documents are posted online.
Health care providers must establish and adhere to a prioritization policy for scheduling in-person services that maximizes telehealth, focuses on high-priority preventive services, chronic disease management, pediatric care and immunizations, and urgent procedures that lead to high risk or significant worsening of the patient’s condition if deferred.
For non-essential, elective invasive procedures and services, providers must attest to monitoring patient volume to ensure they can meet CDC and other public health guidance regarding environmental infection controls and to limit overall pressure on the health care system.
Hospitals will be required to continue to meet the requirement of having at least 20% capacity available (based on a 7-day average of the hospital’s or hospital system’s available, staffed adult ICU and medical/surgical inpatient beds, including surge beds that can be staffed in 12-24 hours).
Additionally, health care providers should consider delaying/deferring certain non-urgent services that are expected to require significant PPE resources, result in hospital/ICU care or post-acute care, or that result in significant aerosolization.
Modifications have been made to the guidance for visitation with family and loved ones.
specific requirements for social distancing and infection control must be adhered to.
Parents/guardians for children, birth partners, 2 and companions for individuals with disabilities continue to be allowed and are not considered visitors.
Exceptions for hospitals and nursing facilities for compassionate/end of life visits will continue.
All visitation is subject to infection control protocol, social distancing, and face coverings, and given the diversity of the facilities and programs, there are specific timetables for each.
Each congregate care program will be reaching out to families with specific details on scheduling a visit with their loved ones as the start date nears. The timeline is as follows;
On June 5, skilled nursing facilities, rest homes and assisted living residences began limited outdoor visitation of up to 2 visitors.
On June 10, hospitals can resume limited inside visitation of 1 person.
On June 10, human services adult residential programs and group homes operated by the Department of Developmental Services, Department of Mental Health, Department of Public Health, Massachusetts Commission for the Blind, and Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission can resume limited outdoor visitation.
One week after the start of Phase 2, the Soldiers’ Homes will begin limited outdoor visitation, as long as infection rates continue to remain stable.
On or before June 30, human services children and youth residential programs operated by the Department of Children and Families, Department of Mental Health, Department of Youth Services, and licensed by the Department of Early Education and Care can resume outdoor visitation.
While the administration continues to work with providers to implement best practices and protocols we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, FDA, OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for reopening. Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every business has access to the resources necessary to meet these strict guidelines. For those businesses, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal, everyday cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together!
The COVID-19 pandemic has temporarily shuttered the doors of many businesses across the nation. As states reopen in stages, the top priority for business owners is to take all necessary precautions to protect the health and safety of employees and customers. That will require both ensuring that your facility is cleaned and disinfected, but also that you have procedures in place to keep it that way once your business resumes operations.
Cleaning and Disinfecting Your Building
You should follow your state’s and the CDC guidelines on commercial cleaning and disinfecting. To do your own cleaning, you’ll need to have the right equipment, supplies and PPE for your staff. Identify the high-touch surfaces and heavy-use areas of your facility. Also, you will need to develop clear procedures and training for your staff so that they stay safe and can continue keeping your building clean and disinfected as business operations ramp up.
SERVPRO of Framingham offers our new defensive pathogen cleaning program,Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned for commercial facilities. With decades of biohazard cleanup experience, we are experts at following CDC protocol. We are ready with the equipment, staff and knowledge to thoroughly clean and disinfect your building for your employees’ and customers’ safety. Our Cleaning Protocol Specialist will evaluate your needs and create a tailored program for your property. We even certify your facility as Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.
General Reopening Tasks
While safety remains everyone’s top priority, it’s also important to evaluate your business property and determine how to effectively reopen. Although some businesses such as restaurants and medical facilities may require special reopening tasks, these steps will help the return go smoothly for most businesses.
Assess Your Property
Designate a key employee to return to the facility before reopening to assess conditions, document damages and report back to management.
Inspect the property’s perimeter for signs of trespassing and damage to the property and structure.
Look for signs of rodent and insect infestation.
Inspect the plumbing and turn on the water supply line to individual fixtures such as sinks and toilets.
Check HVAC air filters and replace if necessary.
If there were any severe weather events during the temporary closure, inspect the roof for signs of damage or pooling water.
Ensure that the fire protection system (smoke detectors, sprinklers) is in proper working condition.
Address Any Damage
Report damage and/or related expenses to your insurance company.
Hire a licensed contractor to repair any damage.
Notify Service Providers and Partners That You Are Reopening
Fire and security alarm monitoring companies
Police department
Insurance company
Cleaning and landscaping services
Customers and clientele
Upon Reopening
Review equipment/machinery startup plan with all employees.
Instruct employees to inspect their workspaces, tools, equipment and/or machinery used in their daily routine and report any damage to management.
Meet with all staff to review the reopening and compile a log of actions to be taken.
While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, FDA, OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for reopening. Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every business has access to the resources necessary to meet these strict guidelines. For those businesses, we are here to help!
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal, everyday cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together!
At his press conference on Monday, Governor Charlie Baker announced his decision to begin Phase 2 of his reopening plan for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. As of Monday, June 8th, residents of the Commonwealth will be able to go inside retail stores, children will be able to head to playgrounds and participate in sports programs while restaurants can serve people outside. His decision to begin Phase 2 was based on his observation of a downward trajectory of state wide coronavirusstatistics in terms of new cases and hospitalizations.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
Higher education classes including post-secondary, vocational tech and occupation schools may allow students to complete required courses for graduation.
Historical spaces may reopen outdoor facilities. No guided tours allowed nor can they host functions or gatherings.
Hotels and other lodgings, though they may not host events, functions or meetings
Outdoor recreation including pools, playgrounds and driving ranges
Personal services, such as home cleaning, window washing, education tutoring and career coaching, with social distancing mandated
Sports: Professional teams may continue practices starting Monday, though no games or public admission is allowed. Youth sports and adult amateur leagues may resume as well.
Warehouses and distribution centers
Restaurants
Diners can only be served outdoors with table 6 feet apart and away from high foot traffic areas.
Tables will be allowed to be closer together only if protective barriers are in place.
No more than six people can sit at a table.
Take-out service will still be allowed with safety standards in place because of the allowance of outdoor dining.
Retail Stores
Retail stores can open at 40% of maximum occupancy (8 people (including staff)/1,000 sq ft)
Enclosed shopping malls and other indoor multi-tenant retail spaces having restaurants or retailers serving only food and beverage can only offer take-out or delivery service.
Indoor seating areas, including food courts, must be closed.
Children’s play areas and arcades must remain closed.
When necessary for people to line up to enter a store, retailers must put markers outside to ensure a six-foot distance between customers waiting to get inside.
Shoppers must practice social distancing
Shoppers must wear face coverings
Stores should install physical barriers at checkout stations where possible and to put up visual social distance markers in places like lines to check out or lines to use the bathroom.
Sampling stations for items like makeup and perfume are not allowed and fitting rooms will remain closed.
After serving a customer, employees have to disinfect shared equipment with supplies provided by the employer.
Disinfection and cleaning logs must also be kept showing the business is following protocols.
Health Care
Providers can resume in-person services including annual visits, dental visits and vision care.
Elective cosmetic procedures and in-person day programs will not be allowed until Phase 3.
The State health officials urged all to consider tele-health options when possible.
On June 10, hospitals can allow one visitor at a time per patient. If a patient is in an ambulance, one person can accompany them.
Sports Teams
Amature and youth sprots teams can begin practicing.
Outdoor athletic facilities will open for youth and adult activities
Indoor athletic facilities will reopen for sports programs only including sports camps for children under the age of 18.
Adult and unsupervised youth activities are still not allowed.
Locker rooms for indoor facilities will remain closed.
Groups comprising of coaches, staff and participants may not excede 10 people.
Contact sports can only have no-contact drills and practices.
Non-contact sports can hold games, but contact sports cannot have inter-team games, scrimmages, or tournaments.
Day Camps
Camps and childcare facilities can open but this does not include overnight camps.
Temperatures for children and staff need to be checked daily before entering facilities.
Parents will also have to answer several questions about the child’s health and the health of people in a home.
Groups will be restricted to 10 with staff saying with the same group of children during the day.
Children and staff members over the age of 2 are encouraged to wear face coverings or masks when 6 feet of social distancing is not possible.
Hotels and Motels
These business may reopen, but under a series of conditions. These conditions include, but are not limited to;
Staff and patrons must follow social distancing of a distance of at least six feet.
Physical barriers that are at least six feet tall must separate workstations, according to the state’s protocols.
Markers should be added on the floor to direct guests to stay six feet apart.
Face coverings are required for all workers and guests in hallways and common areas.
The number of people riding in an elevator should be limited.
Gatherings of 10 people or more are prohibited during work hours, per the protocols.
Entrance doors should be propped open, if possible, or are automated. When not possible entrance doors should be operated by a worker that is frequently washing or sanitizing hands.
Valet should be avoided unless it is necessary because of physical or geographic constraints in order to accommodate individual guests with disabling conditions.
Workers should not open the doors of cars or taxis.
Currently, the second step of Phase 2 will allow for the reopening of businesses;
Hair removal and replacement
Nail care
Skincare
Massage therapy
Makeup salons and makeup application services
Tanning salons
Tattoo, piercing and body art services
Personal training, with restrictions
We will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, FDA, OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for reopening. Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every business has access to the resources necessary to meet these strict guidelines. For those businesses, we are here to help!
Certified SERVPRO Clean
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal, everyday cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together!
A vast majority of family owned, small businesses are restaurants. Owning a restaurant is not only hard work and long hours, it is also, statistically speaking, the most difficult industry to turn a profit. In order to do so, restaurateurs need their dinning rooms to be at or near full occupancy. That is why it is extremely important for these entrepreneurs to completely understand the new rules of the game in order to maximize occupancy during Phase 2 of Governor Charlie Baker'splan to re-open the Commonwealth.
At the beginning of Phase 2 restaurants will be authorized to provide outdoor table service (in accordance to local municipality regulations) and if the public health data reflects continued positive progression a subsequent Phase 2 Order will be issued at a later date which will authorize restaurants to commence indoor table service. The following are the details from the current COVID-19 Order No. 35.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
According to COVID-19 Order No. 35 restaurants will be authorized to provide outdoor table service at the commencement of Phase II of the Commonwealth’s phased re-opening of workplaces. In each case, restaurants will be required to comply with sector-specific COVID-19 workplace safety rules for restaurants.
Outdoor Table Service
According to COVID-19 Order No. 35outdoor table service is deemed as any service that is provided outside the restaurant building envelope, whether on a sidewalk, patio, deck, lawn, parking area, or other outdoor space. Outdoor table service may be provided under awnings or table umbrellas or other cover from the elements, provided, however, that at least 50 percent of the perimeter of any covered dining space must remain open and unobstructed by any form of siding or barriers at all times.
In spite of the provisions ofzoning laws, any special permits, in accordance with variances or other approvals, or other general or special law to the contrary, a city or town may approve requests for expansion of outdoor table service, including in the description of licensed premises as described below. Restaurantures looking for clarifications or exceptions should contact the offices of their Mayor, Board of Selectmen for the process to follow for approving such requests.
In order to provide improved opportunities for outdoor table service, for any type of license that permits the sale of alcoholic beverages for on-premises consumption, contact your local licensing authority (“LLA”). They may grant approval for a change in the description of the licensed premises for the purpose of permitting outdoor alcohol service. Authorization of such an exception is at the discretion of your local LLA and will not require review or approval by the Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission prior to issuance.
We will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, FDA, OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for reopening. Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every business has access to the resources necessary to meet these strict guidelines. For those businesses, we are here to help!
Specialized Training
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal, everyday cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together!
Along with businesses, Phase 2 of Governor Charlie Baker'splan to re-open the Commonwealth also addresses changes to restrictions on organized adult and youth sporting activities. For those of us who enjoy competitive team sports this is welcomed news! The following highlights the changes outlined in the Governor's COVID-19 Order No. 35.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
According to COVID-19 Order No. 35 the Secretary of the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (“EEA”) shall issue guidance to implement these directives and all generally applicable COVID-19 workplace standards for organizers of youth and adult sports programs and operators of facilities that host those programs. Organizers of youth and adult sports programs shall follow the EEA guidance; provided, however, that when the program is governed by formal league rules or other binding agreements or affiliations, the organizer shall comply with any COVID-19 and other health and safety rules applicable under those authorities. The requirements of items (1) – (4) below shall apply in all circumstances.
Amateur Sports
According to COVID-19 Order No. 35 effective immediately, organizers of sports activities and programs for youths and adults and facilities that host such programs or activities may open their premises to employees to begin preparations, consistent with the provisions of Section 1, for authorized Phase 2 activities. In addition to complying with generally applicable COVID-19 workplace safety rules, organizers of sports activities and programs for youths and adults and facilities that host such programs or activities shall be subject to the following directives during Phase 2:
Programs for contact sports must limit activities exclusively to no-contact drills and practices. Programs for no contact sports where ordinary play allows for social distancing may include ordinary play.
Games, scrimmages, and tournaments shall not be permitted for any organized sports activities.
Programs must separate participants into groups of no more than 10 participants, including coaches and staff.
Indoor athletic facilities shall be open and available exclusively for the use of supervised sports programs, including sports camps, for youths under the age of 18.
We will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, FDA, OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for reopening. Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every business has access to the resources necessary to meet these strict guidelines. For those businesses, we are here to help!
Specialized Training
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal, everyday cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together!
As we anticipate the transition into Phase 2 of Governor Charlie Baker'splan to re-open the Commonwealth we have compiled an updated list of enterprises that may receive the "green light" to once again open their doors for business. Regardless of Governor Baker's decision to move forward it is important to note that business must meet each of the following criteria first;
not currently permitted to open their premises as an Essential Service or Phase I enterprise pursuant to Section 1 of COVID-19 Order No. 33;
not closed by any COVID-19 Order separate from or in addition to COVID-19 Order No. 13;
According to COVID-19 Order No. 35 all Phase II, III, and IV enterprises will be required to comply with general and, where applicable, sector-specific COVID-19 workplace safety rules administered by DPL, DPH, and local boards of health. Workplace safety rules will include a variety of mandatory context-specific COVID-19 safety measures such as occupancy limitations, operational modifications, social distancing rules, and specialized cleaning requirements.
(IMPORTANT: this list is not complete and it is regularly updated by state and local municipalities. Its intended purpose is to serve only as a helpful reference.)
Phase 2 enterprises that meet all of the aforementioned criteria specified above, in any COVID-19 Order and including:
Retail Stores including stores in enclosed shopping malls
Restaurants providing seated food service prepared on-site and under retail food permits issued by municipal authorities pursuant to 105 CMR 590.000, including beer gardens/wineries/distilleries meeting these criteria
Hotels, motels, inns, and other short-term lodgings (no events, functions, or meetings)
Limited organized youth and adult amateur sports activities and programs—no contact and no games or scrimmages, and indoor facilities limited to youth programs
Professional sports practice and training programs--no inter-team games and no admission for the public
Personal Services provided at a fixed place of business or at a client location
Step 1: Services involving no close personal contact (photography, window washers, individual tutoring, home cleaning, etc.)
Step 2: Services involving close personal contact (massage, nail salons, personal training for individuals or no more than 2 persons from same household, etc.)
Non-athletic instructional classes in arts/education/life skills for youths under 18 years of age in groups of fewer than 10
Driving schools and flight schools
Outdoor historical spaces—no functions or gatherings and no guided tours
Funeral homes—increased capacity to permit 40% occupancy for one service at a time within the facility
Warehouses and distribution centers
Golf facilities including outdoor driving ranges
Other outdoor recreational facilities
pools, playgrounds and spray decks
mini golf, go karts, batting cages, climbing walls, ropes courses
for the limited purposes of permitting students to complete a degree, program, or prerequisite for employment, or other similar requirement for completion, for summer youth programming including athletic facilities, and any necessary supporting services
Day Camps including sports and arts camps
Public libraries
We will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, FDA, OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for reopening. Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every business has access to the resources necessary to meet these strict guidelines. For those businesses, we are here to help!
Specialized Training
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal, everyday cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together!
Yesterday at his press conference, Governor Charlie Baker, whent into greater detail regarding the next Phases of his plan. He provided a detailed list of businesses and activities that fall into Phases II, III, and IV of the Commonwealth’s Re-Opening Plan. The Order permits all Phase II enterprises, including retail, to begin preparations to safely resume operation in advance of the start of the second phase. In addition to the retail sector, the Executive Order details further requirements for the safe resumption of amateur youth and adult sports and outdoor dining. The Governor will continue to review public health trend data this week prior to making his announcement on June 6th as to exactly when Phase 2 will begin. Presently, the earliest possible date the Commonwealth will transition into Phase 2 is June 8th.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
Effective immediately, the Executive Order permits Phase II businesses to reopen their physical workplaces to workers only to conduct necessary preparations prior to the start of Phase II. Preparations include but are not limited to completing a COVID-19 Control Plan, implementing sector-specific protocols, and complying with Mandatory Workplace Safety Standards.
View update list (as of June 1, 2020) for clearance to open in Phase 2, click here.
Download a copy of the Safety Standards Checklists;
We will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, FDA, OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for reopening. Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every business has access to the resources necessary to meet these strict guidelines. For those businesses, we are here to help!
Specialized Training
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal, everyday cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together!
We all have a collective responsibility to ensure that when we do choose to out we do so with the safety of ourselves and others around us. Remaining vigilant, following public health directives and using common sense to protect yourself, your family, your neighbors, and vulnerable populations across the Commonwealth is the best way to mitigate against the potential spread of COVID-19.
The state of Massachusetts and the Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EOEEA) has provided guidelines that apply to beaches during Phase 1 of the Commonwealth’s Reopening. The following are safety and re-opening standards for the use of coastal and inland beaches in the Commonwealth for Phase 1 of the Commonwealth’s Reopening. All beach visitors should adopt these specific guidelines. Additional property specific guidelines may also be posted at entrance points to beach areas and on relevant social media/websites.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
All beach visitors over the age of 2, whether indoors or outdoors, should wear a face covering or mask when they cannot maintain 6 feet of distance between themselves and others, unless they have a medical condition preventing them from doing so. Masks are not required to be worn while swimming. No groups larger than 10 are allowed to gather on shore or in the water.
To allow for adequate social distancing for ingress, egress, and transit across the beach, beach capacity should be managed to accommodate a minimum of 12 ft distance between toweling/beach blanket groups. There will be limits on parking lot capacity to accommodate adequate social distancing based on an assessment by the beach manager. There should be no loitering, tailgating or any other social activities in parking lots.
Picnic areas should be closed if social distancing cannot be maintained and sanitization cannot be performed between use.
When Visiting Beaches
Visitors are required to maintain social distancing of at least 6 feet or more at all times and visitors should maintain at least 12 ft minimum distance between toweling/beach blanket areas.
Organized games should not be allowed including, but not limited to, volleyball, Kan Jam, spikeball, football, soccer, Kadima, and bocce.
Visitors shall abide by social distancing standards for bathroom lines and follow any established visual guidelines for maintaining a 6’ distance in all restroom facilities.
Visitors shall keep a minimum distance of 6 feet from lifeguards and between the public and lifeguard stands unless in the case of an emergency.
Indoor shower facilities and changing facilities will remain closed in Phase 1.
Water fountains and water refill stations will remain closed in Phase 1.
Trash disposal at beaches is available to the discretion of the city or town it is located in and/or the managing organization.
Visitors of beaches should expect limited or no trash disposal receptacles.
When visiting beaches without trash receptacles, visitors should adhere to a strict “carry in, carry out” policy and take waste with them.
Shuttle services to the beach are closed in Phase 1.
We will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, FDA, OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for reopening. Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every business has access to the resources necessary to meet these strict guidelines. For those businesses, we are here to help!
Specialized Training
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal, everyday cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together!
As we head into the summer months and the weather continues to warm it will become increasingly enticing to break free from the confines of our homes and venture into the great outdoors! However, the unfortunately reality is that until a treatment or vaccine for COVID-19 is available, life will not return to normal. We each have a collective responsibility to ensure that when we do choose to out we do so with the safety of ourselves and others around us. Remaining vigilant, following public health directives and using common sense to protect yourself, your family, your neighbors, and vulnerable populations across the Commonwealth is the best way to mitigate against the potential spread of COVID-19.
Individuals partaking in mountain biking and trail cycling at parks, forest, and outdoor facilities should comply with assemblage guidance, wear face covering where social distancing is not possible, and adhere to any property-specific guidance. Any person over the age of 2, whether indoors or outdoors, to wear a face covering or mask when they cannot maintain 6 feet of distance between themselves and others, unless they have a medical condition preventing them from doing so. No groups larger than 10 are allowed to gather or cycle together.
When driving to a location with your bicycle in tow follow the lot user capacity and restrictions determined by land manager and the local municipality.
Lingering in parking areas is prohibited.
Parking outside of designated assigned parking is discouraged (i.e., parking along a roadway instead of the parking lot) unless it facilitates social distancing in order to provide access to the open space where otherwise designated parking is not available and is legal to do so.
Illegally parked cars will be ticketed and may be towed.
Ridesharing/carpooling to outdoor recreational activities with out-of-household members is strongly discouraged.
While mountain biking or cycling cyclists should;
practice social distancing at all times based upon recommendation of the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH) and the CDC.
Cyclists should ride only in groups from the same household, and groups should be no larger than 10 people
Cyclists should not gather in groups or loiter at any time.
When encountering other trail users, cyclists should maintain recommended social distancing by stopping and moving off the trail as to maintain proper distance. If unable to do so, cyclists should wear appropriate face covering.
Cyclists should be prepared with a face covering or mask where social distancing cannot be achieved.
Cyclists must consider the likelihood of being attended to by an emergency or essential worker due to injury or an unforeseen circumstance.
Gatherings such as sanctioned group rides, sanctioned trail work, or races should be prohibited until such time as social distancing protocols have been lifted by the MDPH or guidelines have been placed on approved gathering size.
We will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, FDA, OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for reopening. Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every business has access to the resources necessary to meet these strict guidelines. For those businesses, we are here to help!
Specialized Training
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal, everyday cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together!
Planning To Reopen - Parks, Open Space, Outdoor Education Programs
As we head into the summer months and the weather continues to warm it will become increasingly enticing to break free from the confines of our homes and venture into the great outdoors! However, the unfortunately reality is that until a treatment or vaccine for COVID-19 is available, life will not return to normal. We each have a collective responsibility to ensure that when we do choose to out we do so with the safety of ourselves and others around us. Remaining vigilant, following public health directives and using common sense to protect yourself, your family, your neighbors, and vulnerable populations across the Commonwealth is the best way to mitigate against the potential spread of COVID-19.
The Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EOEEA) has provided guidelines to follow for all visitors to parks and any open spaces. According to the Massachusetts EOEEA all visitors over the age of 2 to parks and open space, as well as those participating in outdoor education programs should wear a face covering or mask when they cannot maintain 6 feet of distance between themselves and others. Groups larger than 10 are not allowed to gather together. Allowable activities in parks and open spaces and other designated areas such as rail trails, multi-use paths, and bike paths are;
Walking
Hiking
Biking
Running
Yoga, Tai Chi, etc.
Visitors should always practice CDC social distancing standards by remaining 6 feet away from others as well as adhering to all site-specific rules, regulations, and posted signage regarding permitted uses. When on trails, walker and hikers should move aside and leave room for others to pass, and cyclists and runners should alert other users when approaching and wait for others to step aside before passing. Remember to always wash your hands or use hand sanitizer after visiting public spaces.
Athletic fields and athletic courts can be utilized only for non-contact sports, with no shared equipment. Visitors should not engage in any type of pick-up games, organized games or tournaments.
Athletic Fields Guidelines:
Users should sanitize hands before and after play, not share equipment, and clean and wipe down equipment.
When engaged in play, users should avoid touching other users’ equipment in separate areas.
Users waiting to utilize a section or area of the field should wait outside the field of play until previous users have vacated the facility to ensure proper social distancing and prevent accidental contact of other users’ equipment.
Athletic Courts (Non-Contact) Guidelines:
Users should sanitize hands before and after play, not share equipment and clean and wipe down equipment, including racquets, balls, and water bottles.
Users waiting to utilize a court should wait outside the court’s gates/fence until previous users have vacated the facility to ensure proper social distancing and prevent accidental contact of other users’ equipment.
Picnic Areas and Grills
Picnic and grill areas should be closed if social distancing cannot be maintained and sanitizing protocols cannot be performed between use.
The availability of trash disposal receptacles and restrooms facilities will be at the discretion of local municipalities. As such, visitors of public parks, reservations, and open spaces should expect limited or no trash disposal receptacles. When visiting public properties without trash receptacles, visitors should adhere to a strict “carry in, carry out” policy and take waste with them. When access to public restrooms has been granted users should abide by CDC social distancing standards for bathroom lines and follow any established visual guidelines for maintaining a 6 ft distance in all restroom facilities. Users must wash or sanitize their hands when finished.
Dog Walking
When permissible dog walkers should adhere to the following guidelines.
All dog walkers and their dogs should practice social distancing, and users should provide appropriate space for others and/or their dogs to pass when necessary.
Social distancing for dogs means that dogs not part of the same household should be kept at least six feet apart and avoid interacting with other dogs and other people from separate households.
Dog walkers should not share toys, treats, or other materials with dogs that are not within the same household.
Dog walkers should supply their own bags associated with dog waste in the event there are none available on site and remove dog and other waste and dispose of it either in a designated receptacle onsite or at another appropriate location.
Dog walkers should supply their own water and other needs for their pets in the event there are none available onsite.
All users of dog parks and their dogs should practice social distancing of at least six or more feet.
All visitors of dog parks should maintain enough control over their pets via leash or voice control to comply with social distancing guidelines and site-specific rules and regulations.
Dog park amenities, including shared water dishes, toys, and other materials, should not be used by dogs or handled by visitors.
Visitors of dog parks should supply their own bags associated with dog waste in the event there are none available onsite and take dog waste with them if designated trash receptacles are not available for normal use.
Community Gardens
Those who choose to visit community gardens should, in addition to following social distancing guidelines, avoid utilizing communal tools, hoses, and other equipment, and avoid the sharing of personal equipment whenever possible. Additionally, users are responsible for sanitizing items before and after each use. When social distancing guideline can not be followed visitors should only visit and utilize plots with members of their same household.
Organized Educational Programs
Organized educational programs, activities and outdoor public art installations may occur in outdoor spaces during Phase 1 only if the program does not require individual participants to share equipment or make physical contact in order to engage in the activity, subject to the following guidelines.
To allow for adequate social distancing for the activity, as well as ingress and egress, the layout of the class should be managed to accommodate a minimum of 12 ft distance between each individual activity station.
Facial coverings are required, and instructor and participants must always comply with all social distancing requirements and remain 6 ft apart. Programs must be conducted without shared equipment, tools or materials
Activities must be limited to gatherings of no more than 10, including instructor or leader.
Organizers must use a pre-registration process to ensure group size.
Instructors must be familiar with all protocols and procedures to maintain a safe activity, e.g. monitoring physical distancing, not allowing participants without facial coverings, disinfecting tables before and after use in accordance with CDC guidelines.
Temporary signage will be posted to inform the public of public health guidelines and standards of behavior during program
If using outdoor displays or tables when possible add protective barriers and disinfect before and after use.
We will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, FDA, OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for reopening. Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every business has access to the resources necessary to meet these strict guidelines. For those businesses, we are here to help!
Specialized Training
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal, everyday cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together!
This time of the year brings the best chance for heavy rains in our New England. When rains cause flooding in your Hopkinton, MA commercial or residential property the range of potential safety issues presented is broad. Merely waiting for the excess water to drain and dry out is never the best option. You need the help of the certified experts at SERVPRO of Framingham to identify and help minimize hazards before restoring the damage.
Identifying safety concerns
When flash floods damage your property you need an immediate response. Restoration industry best practices require a safety evaluation before emergency mitigation begins. The reasons to consider safety first include:
Personal Hazards
Slip, trip, and fall
Confined spaces
Chemical safety issues
Environmental Hazards
Submerged debris
Structural damage and weakness
Electrical shock
Biohazards
Waterborne chemicals
Infectious waste from sewage
Molds
The risks are not always the same
Every job SERVPRO of Framingham takes on is unique. The systems, contents, and building materials are different at each job site. That is why our certified technicians are trained to identify and remedy the following specifics as we evaluate the condition of your flooded property:
Posting of warning signs
Exposed carpet tack strips will be removed or covered
Check for hidden water and moisture in ceilings and walls
Identify and resolve any electrical risks
When necessary we install external generators and use use ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCI) to get the job done safely
Identify potential mold, lead, or asbestos risks
Identify the water Category 1,2 or 3
The Disaster Remediation Teams a SERVPRO of Framinghamare ready to help 24 hours a day, every day of the year, including holidays! Call us at (508) 370-4400 and we will make it, "Like it never even happened."
Floods rank as one of the most common and widespread natural disasters in the United States. Whether you live near a coastline, along city streets, in the mountains, near a river or even in the desert, there is a potential for suffering from flood damage.
Just because you haven't experienced a flood in the past, doesn’t mean you won't in the future. In fact, 20% of all claims paid by the National Flood Insurance Program were for policies in low-risk communities. On average, floods cost $3 billion in annual losses in the United States. Commercial flood claims average more than $75,000.
According to the American Red Cross (ARC), floods cause more damage in the U.S. every year than any other weather-related disaster. The ARC offers the following flood safety tips.
Stay away from floodwaters. If you come up on a flowing scream where water is above your ankles, stop, rum around and go another Six inches of swiftly moving water can sweep you off of your feet.
If you approach a flooded road while driving, turn around and go another way. If you are caught on a flooded road and waters are rising rapidly around you, get out of the car quickly and move to higher ground. Most cars can be swept away by less than two feet of moving water.
Keep children out of the water. They are curious and often lack judgment about running water or contaminated water. Keep your pets out of the water too.
If a flood does strike your Ashland, MA residential or commercial property contact the water remediation experts at SERVPRO of Framingham. Even minor floods have the potential to cause major damage to a structure when not treated quickly and properly. A quick response will minimize the total damage to your property. Call SERVPRO of Framingham at (508) 370-4400 and we will make it "Like it never even happened."
We are in the middle of week two of Phase 1 of Governor Baker's plan to reopen the state of Massachusetts for businesses. If you have any uncertainty as to when your business is cleared to reopen visit the state of Massachusetts list of businesses and industries. Keep in mind that the list is not an exhaustive list of all possible businesses that can open in each phase; and it may be updated from time to time. Remember, in order to reopen, business must meet the Department of Public Health(DPH) and the COVID-19 Command Center's new Mandatory Workplace Safety Standards in consultation with the Reopening Advisory Board. These new standards will apply universally to all workplaces that are open in Phase 1, and are designed to reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission to employees and customers during the first phase of reopening, and are applicable to all sectors and industries. The following is an overview of;
All persons, including employees, customers, and vendors should remain at least six feet apart to the greatest extent possible, both inside and outside workplaces
Establish protocols to ensure that employees can practice adequate social distancing
Provide signage for safe social distancing
Require face coverings or masks for all employees
Hygiene Protocols
Provide hand washing capabilities throughout the workplace
Ensure frequent hand washing by employees and adequate supplies to do so
Provide regular sanitization of high touch areas, such as workstations, equipment, screens, doorknobs, restrooms throughout work site
Staffing and Operations
Provide training for employees regarding the social distancing and hygiene protocols
Employees who are displaying COVID19-like symptoms do not report to work
Establish a plan for employees getting ill from Covid-19 at work, and a return-to-work plan.
Cleaning and Disinfecting
Establish and maintain cleaning protocols specific to the business
When an active employee is diagnosed with COVID19, cleaning and disinfecting must be performed
Disinfection of all common surfaces must take place at intervals appropriate to said workplace
Sector Specific Safety Protocols and Best Practices
Mandatory safety protocols and recommended best practices for sectors that are eligible to open in Phase 1. Additional sector guidance for future phases will be issued at a later date. Businesses operating to provide Essential Services, as defined in the Governor's March 23, 2020 Executive Order, updated on March 31, April 28 and May 15, may remain open and have until May 25, 2020 to comply with their industry’s sector-specific protocols (if applicable).
We will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, FDA, OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for reopening. Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every business has access to the resources necessary to meet these strict guidelines. For those businesses, we are here to help!
Specialized Training
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal, everyday cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together!
As the state of Massachusetts continues to slowly reopen for business it is important to prepare for potential shortages for PPE such as masks, shields, and hand sanitizers. We have already experiences shortages of these essential items. As demand increases, it stands to reason that these shortages will remain and most likely increase. In order for the Commonwealth to continue reopen it is imperative for businesses to be prepared for this inevitable reality and to have alternative solutions in place.
Here are three DIY solutions that can be used to combat potential shortages or supply chain break downs.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
We are all aware that N-95 respirators (the CDC-recommended masks) have been in short supply for months. Already, the PPE supply has become such a crisis that some of us are turning to social media to ask for hand-sewn surgical masks. While these masks are not as effective as N-95 masks the CDC considers similar alternatives such as a bandana or scarf as a last resort.
The following is a link to an easy to follow DIY video from Time Magazine explaining how to make a face mask for coronavirus.
Hand sanitizer
According to the CDC washing your hands vigorously with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is the best defense against the spread of infectious diseases like coronavirus. The second best, especially for those situations when you washing your hands is not an option, is using a hand sanitizer. Businesses wanting to create a safe environment for their most valued assets, their employees and customers, are sure to be stocking up on this liquid gold.
Here is a link to an easy to follow DIY how to make your own hand sanitizer video from WCVB Boston. When making your own sanitizer remember that according to the CDC the alcohol content must be at least 60 percent.
Shields
The notion that you can get the virus through your eyes isn't new, but it has been little discussed compared with the risk of infection through the nose and mouth. The CDC says that while the nose and mouth are the main avenues by which someone catches the coronavirus, "it may be possible that a person can get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes."
Face shields have long been required equipment for many procedures in hospitals. Doctors and nurses wear them when intubating Covid-19 patients and during surgeries that may cause blood and bone fragments to fly out. Face shields can be resterilized and cleaned easily with a simple alcohol wipe or rinse with soap and hot water and can be reused as long as there are no cracks. Some experts suggest the use of both masks and shields. In Singapore, preschool students and their teachers will be provided with face shields when hey return to school. Similar recommendations are being made in the state of Philadelphia and California.
We will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, FDA, OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for reopening. Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every business has access to the resources necessary to meet these strict guidelines. For those businesses, we are here to help!
Specialized Training
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal, everyday cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together!
A constantly flushing toilet is not a problem you want to ignore. A toilet that won't stop flushing, especially in your commercial building, can cause several problems. Toilet overflow doesn't just create extra work for the custodial staff; it also can lead to significant water damage. There are a couple of ways you can troubleshoot the problem before you have to call for help, though.
Clean the flushometer
The toilet may be flushing because the flushometer is clogged. Sediment gets trapped in the gasket, but you can clean it in a few steps:
Remove the lid and the flange cover.
Clean the gasket and weep hole (if present).
Replace the cover.
Most of the time, this will stop a toilet from flushing constantly. If it doesn't, however, there's one more thing to try before calling for professional assistance.
Replace the gasket
All parts wear out and have to be replaced eventually. If the gasket is cracked or not sealing properly, this is probably what is causing the toilet to malfunction. When a worn-out gasket is left unchecked, it leads to leaks and toilet overflow. Take the cover off and remove the damaged gasket gently, being careful not to scratch the chrome around it. Add the new gasket and replace the cover.
Call a plumber
When neither of these quick fixes works, water restoration specialists recommend that you call someone with more expertise. An established plumber in Bellingham, MA, who is familiar with commercial systems is your best bet. When the technicians arrive, they can assess the problem and get it fixed. Quick resolution can stop a toilet flood before it begins, which saves you a lot of money in the long run.
A constantly flushing toilet is not a problem you want to ignore. Just because it hasn't caused damage yet doesn't mean that it never will. It is a toilet overflow waiting to happen. If troubleshooting the problem does not work, call the experts at SERVPRO Framingham at (508) 370-4400.
Storms can cause severe damage to Bellingham, Ma properties. Even though the New England winter weather is behind us you still may need storm remediation. Strong winds can take down trees and limbs causing damage to your roofs. Heavy rains can lead to flooding. When storm damage strikes you need the help of trained professionals.
Whether you are dealing with a significant amount of flooding, roof damage, or leaky roofs you need storm remediation. There is a reason why a lot of people are currently contacting home restoration experts like SERVPRO of Framingham. We come to your home with our own flood pumps and tools to get rid of the excess water.
Why contact a storm restoration professional
Storm Damage can leave behind a lot of problems once the storm has passed, and this is why storm damage involves so much cleanup. Whether you are looking for water restoration due flooding or you need professional roof repair done because you have a significant amount of damage and roof leaks due to wind damage or fallen tree damage, you need to contact a full service storm restoration professionals who not only will remediate any damage to your property but also repair the damage too!
If your commercial or residential property suffers storm damage call the full service experts at SERVPRO of Framingham, (508) 370-4400. We will make it Like it never even happened.
Planning To Reopen - Phase 1 Caring For Our Children
As residents of the Commonwealth begin to head back to work the need for safe child care is paramount. Governor Baker has also shed additional light on the importance of safe daycare services as residents of Massachusetts return to work.
The following steps are recommended by the CDC to effectively clean and disinfect in the child care industry.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
According to the CDC Caring for Our Children (CFOC) provides national standards for cleaning, sanitizing and disinfection of educational facilities for children. Toys that can be put in the mouth should be cleaned and sanitized (see below). Other hard surfaces, including diaper changing stations, door knobs, and floors can be disinfected.
Intensify cleaning and disinfection efforts:
Facilities should develop a schedule for cleaning and disinfecting. An example can be found here.
Routinely clean, sanitize, and disinfect surfaces and objects that are frequently touched, especially toys and games. This may also include cleaning objects/surfaces not ordinarily cleaned daily such as doorknobs, light switches, classroom sink handles, countertops, nap pads, toilet training potties, desks, chairs, cubbies, and playground structures. Use the cleaners typically used at your facility. Guidance is available for the selection of appropriate sanitizers or disinfectants for child care settings.
Use all cleaning products according to the directions on the label. For disinfection, most common EPA-registered, fragrance-free household disinfectants should be effective. A list of products that are EPA-approved for use against the virus that causes COVID-19 is available here. If surfaces are dirty, they should be cleaned using a detergent or soap and water prior to disinfection. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for concentration, application method, and contact time for all cleaning and disinfection products.
If possible, provide EPA-registered disposable wipes to child care providers and other staff members so that commonly used surfaces such as keyboards, desks, and remote controls can be wiped down before use. If wipes are not available, please refer to CDC’s guidance on disinfection for community settings.
All cleaning materials should be kept secure and out of reach of children.
Cleaning products should not be used near children, and staff should ensure that there is adequate ventilation when using these products to prevent children from inhaling toxic fumes.
Clean and Sanitize Toys
Toys that cannot be cleaned and sanitized should not be used.
Toys that children have placed in their mouths or that are otherwise contaminated by body secretions or excretions should be set aside until they are cleaned by hand by a person wearing gloves. Clean with water and detergent, rinse, sanitize with an EPA-registered disinfectant, rinse again, and air-dry. You may also clean in a mechanical dishwasher. Be mindful of items more likely to be placed in a child’s mouth, like play food, dishes, and utensils.
Machine washable cloth toys should be used by one individual at a time or should not be used at all. These toys should be laundered before being used by another child.
Do not share toys with other groups of infants or toddlers, unless they are washed and sanitized before being moved from one group to the other.
Set aside toys that need to be cleaned. Place in a dish pan with soapy water or put in a separate container marked for “soiled toys.” Keep dish pan and water out of reach from children to prevent risk of drowning. Washing with soapy water is the ideal method for cleaning. Try to have enough toys so that the toys can be rotated through cleanings.
Children’s books, like other paper-based materials such as mail or envelopes, are not considered a high risk for transmission and do not need additional cleaning or disinfection procedures.
Clean and Disinfect Bedding
Use bedding (sheets, pillows, blankets, sleeping bags) that can be washed. Keep each child’s bedding separate, and consider storing in individually labeled bins, cubbies, or bags. Cots and mats should be labeled for each child. Bedding that touches a child’s skin should be cleaned weekly or before use by another child.
We will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, FDA, OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for reopening. Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every business has access to the resources necessary to meet these strict guidelines. For those businesses, we are here to help!
Specialized Training
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal, everyday cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together!
Planning To Reopen - Phase 1 Caring For Our Infants and Toddlers
As residents of the Commonwealth begin to head back to work the need for safe child care is paramount. Governor Baker has also shed additional light on the importance of safe daycare services as residents of Massachusetts return to work.
The following steps are recommended by the CDC to when caring for infants and toddlers in the child care industry.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
When diapering a child,wash your handsand wash the child’s hands before you begin, and wear gloves. Follow safe diaper changing procedures. Procedures should be posted in all diaper changing areas. Steps include:
Prepare (includes putting on gloves)
Clean the child
Remove trash (soiled diaper and wipes)
Replace diaper
Wash child’s hands
Clean up diapering station
Wash hands
After diapering, wash your hands (even if you were wearing gloves) and disinfect the diapering area with a fragrance-free bleach that is EPA-registered as a sanitizing or disinfecting solution. If other products are used for sanitizing or disinfecting, they should also be fragrance-free and EPA-registered. If the surface is dirty, it should be cleaned with detergent or soap and water prior to disinfection.
If reusable cloth diapers are used, they should not be rinsed or cleaned in the facility. The soiled cloth diaper and its contents (without emptying or rinsing) should be placed in a plastic bag or into a plastic-lined, hands-free covered diaper pail to give to parents/guardians or laundry service.
Washing, feeding, or holding a child
It is important to comfort crying, sad, and/or anxious infants and toddlers, and they often need to be held. To the extent possible, when washing, feeding, or holding very young children: Child care providers can protect themselves by wearing an over-large button-down, long sleeved shirt and by wearing long hair up off the collar in a ponytail or other updo.
Child care providers should wash their hands, neck, and anywhere touched by a child’s secretions.
Child care providers should change the child’s clothes if secretions are on the child’s clothes. They should change the button-down shirt, if there are secretions on it, and wash their hands again.
Contaminated clothes should be placed in a plastic bag or washed in a washing machine.
Infants, toddlers, and their providers should have multiple changes of clothes on hand in the child care center or home-based child care.
Child care providers should wash their hands before and after handling infant bottles prepared at home or prepared in the facility. Bottles, bottle caps, nipples, and other equipment used for bottle-feeding should be thoroughly cleaned after each use by washing in a dishwasher or by washing with a bottlebrush, soap, and water.
Healthy hand hygiene behavior
All children, staff, and volunteers should engage in hand hygiene at the following times:
Arrival to the facility and after breaks
Before and after preparing food or drinks
Before and after eating or handling food, or feeding children
Before and after administering medication or medical ointment
Before and after diapering
After using the toilet or helping a child use the bathroom
After coming in contact with bodily fluid
After handling animals or cleaning up animal waste
After playing outdoors or in sand
After handling garbage
Wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If hands are not visibly dirty, alcohol-based hand sanitizers with at least 60% alcohol can be used if soap and water are not readily available.
Supervise children when they use hand sanitizer to prevent ingestion.
Assist children with handwashing, including infants who cannot wash hands alone.
After assisting children with handwashing, staff should also wash their hands.
Place posters describing handwashing steps near sinks. Developmentally appropriate posters in multiple languages are available from CDC.
We will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, EPA, FDA, OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for reopening.
Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every business has access to the resources necessary to meet these strict guidelines. For those businesses, we are here to help!
Specialized Training
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal, everyday cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together!
After being shut down for more than two months, yesterday, Governor Charlie Baker presented his long awaited response to reopening the state of Massachusetts. Manufacturing and construction businesses can reopen immediately. Places like offices, hair salons and car washes can reopen next Monday ONLY IF those businesses meet a series of state-mandated health and safety requirements. The pace of Massachusetts' phased-in reopening plan will be determined by six public health metrics. Baker said each phase of the reopening plan will last "at least three weeks," but that the timeline could change depending on how those metrics trend.
Governor Baker also shed additional light on the importance of safe daycare services as employees return to work. Screening is an important component of any well rounded plan to open safely. The following are CDC approved examples aimed to help Child Care services implement the necessary levels of screening.
(As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.)
CDC Examples of screening methods - social distancing
Ask parents/guardians to take their child’s temperature either before coming to the facility or upon arrival at the facility. Upon their arrival, stand at least 6 feet away from the parent/guardian and child.
Ask the parent/guardian to confirm that the child does not have fever, shortness of breath or cough.
Make a visual inspection of the child for signs of illness which could include flushed cheeks, rapid breathing or difficulty breathing (without recent physical activity), fatigue, or extreme fussiness.
According to the CDC, you do not need to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) if you can maintain a distance of 6 feet.
CDC Examples of screening methods - barrier/partition controls
Stand behind a physical barrier, such as a glass or plastic window or partition that can serve to protect the staff member’s face and mucous membranes from respiratory droplets that may be produced if the child being screened sneezes, coughs, or talks.
Make a visual inspection of the child for signs of illness, which could include flushed cheeks, rapid breathing or difficulty breathing (without recent physical activity), fatigue, or extreme fussiness.
Conduct temperature screening (follow steps below)
Perform hand hygiene
Wash your hands with soap and water for 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
Put on disposable gloves.
Check the child’s temperature, reaching around the partition or through the window.
Make sure your face stays behind the barrier at all times during the screening.
When performing a temperature check on multiple individuals, ensure that you use a clean pair of gloves for each child and that the thermometer has been thoroughly cleaned in between each check.
If you use disposable or non-contact (temporal) thermometers and you did not have physical contact with the child, you do not need to change gloves before the next check.
If you use non-contact thermometers, clean them with an alcohol wipe (or isopropyl alcohol on a cotton swab) between each client. You can reuse the same wipe as long as it remains wet.
CDC Examples of screening methods - personal protective equipment
If social distancing or barrier/partition controls cannot be implemented during screening, personal protective equipment (PPE) can be used when within 6 feet of a child.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Reliance on PPE alone is a less effective control and more difficult to implement given training requirements and potential PPE shortages.
Upon arrival, wash your hands and put on a facemask, eye protection (goggles or disposable face shield that fully covers the front and sides of the face), and a single pair of disposable gloves. A gown could be considered if extensive contact with a child is anticipated.
Make a visual inspection of the child for signs of illness, which could include flushed cheeks, rapid breathing or difficulty breathing (without recent physical activity), fatigue, or extreme fussiness, and confirm that the child is not experiencing coughing or shortness of breath.
Take the child’s temperature.
When performing a temperature check on multiple individuals, ensure that you use a clean pair of gloves for each child and that the thermometer has been thoroughly cleaned in between each check.
If you use disposable or non-contact (temporal) thermometers and did not have physical contact with an individual, you do not need to change gloves before the next check.
If you use non-contact thermometers, clean them with an alcohol wipe (or isopropyl alcohol on a cotton swab) between each client. You can reuse the same wipe as long as it remains wet.
After each screening, remove and discard PPE, and wash hands.
Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol or wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
If hands are visibly soiled, soap and water should be used before using alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
If your staff does not have experience in using PPE:
Check to see if your facility has guidance on how to don and doff PPE. The procedure to don and doff should be tailored to the specific type of PPE that you have available at your facility.
We will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, FDA, OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for reopening. Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every business has access to the resources necessary to meet these strict guidelines. For those businesses, we are here to help!
Specialized Training
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal, everyday cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together!
Governor Charlie Baker will be announcing the first phase of his plan to reopen the state of Massachusetts today. As residents of the Commonwealth head back to work the need for safe child care is paramount. The following steps are recommended by the CDC to minimize the risk of spreading COVID-19 and to ensure the safety of children, parents and employees.
As always, work with your local health officials to determine a set of strategies appropriate for your community’s situation.
6 steps to take
In order to ensure the safety of children, parents and employees during the COVID-19 pandemic child care programs should take these necessary steps:
Maintain an adequate ratio of staff to children to ensure safety.
Plan ahead and recruit those with child care experience to ensure you have a roster of substitute caregivers who can fill in if your staff members are sick or stay home to care for sick family members.
When feasible, staff members and older children should wear face coverings within the facility. Cloth face coverings should NOT be put on babies and children under age two because of the danger of suffocation.
Social distancing strategies
If possible, child care classes should include the same group each day, and the same child care providers should remain with the same group each day. If possible consider creating a separate classroom or group for the children of healthcare workers and other first responders.
Cancel or postpone special events such as festivals, holiday events, and special performances.
Consider whether to alter or halt daily group activities that may promote transmission.
Keep each group of children in a separate room.
Limit the mixing of children, such as staggering playground times and keeping groups separate for special activities such as art, music, and exercising.
If possible, at nap time, ensure that children’s naptime mats (or cribs) are spaced out as much as possible, ideally 6 feet apart. Consider placing children head to toe in order to further reduce the potential for viral spread.
Consider staggering arrival and drop off times and/or have child care providers come outside the facility to pick up the children as they arrive. Your plan for curb side drop off and pick up should limit direct contact between parents and staff members and adhere to social distancing recommendations.
If possible, arrange for administrative staff to telework from their homes.
Parent drop-off and pick-up
Hand hygiene stations should be set up at the entrance of the facility, so anyone entering can clean their hands before they enter. Hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol next to parent sign-in sheets. Keep hand sanitizer out of children’s reach and supervise use. If possible, place sign-in stations outside, and provide sanitary wipes for cleaning pens between each use.
Consider staggering arrival and drop off times and plan to limit direct contact with parents as much as possible.
Have child care providers greet children outside as they arrive.
Designate a parent to be the drop off/pick up volunteer to walk all children to their classroom, and at the end of the day, walk all children back to their cars.
Infants could be transported in their car seats. Store car seat out of children’s reach.
Ideally, the same parent or designated person should drop off and pick up the child every day. If possible, older people such as grandparents or those with serious underlying medical conditions should not pick up children, because they are more at risk for severe illness from COVID-19.
Clean and disinfect
Caring for Our Children (CFOC) provides national standards for cleaning, sanitizing and disinfection of educational facilities for children. Toys that can be put in the mouth should be cleaned and sanitized. Other hard surfaces, including diaper changing stations, door knobs, and floors can be disinfected.
The CDC recommends considerations to take to intensify cleaning and disinfection efforts:
Create a schedule
Ensure cleaning supplies are kept out of the reach of the children
Sanitize Toys
Clean and disinfect bedding
Screen children upon arrival
Persons who have a fever of 100.40 (38.00C) or above or other signs of illness should not be admitted to the facility. Encourage parents to be on the alert for signs of illness in their children and to keep them home when they are sick. Screen children upon arrival, if possible.
There are several methods that facilities can use to protect their workers while conducting temperature screenings. The most protective methods incorporate social distancing (maintaining a distance of 6 feet from others) or physical barriers to eliminate or minimize exposures due to close contact to a child who has symptoms during screening.
We will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, FDA, OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for reopening. Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every business has access to the resources necessary to meet these strict guidelines. For those businesses, we are here to help!
Specialized Training
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal, everyday cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together!
Planning To Reopen - Child Care, Preparedness and Planning
During his Thursday press conference Governor Charlie Baker set new targets for the expansion of coronavirus testing capacity in Massachusetts but fell short of calling for universal testing as part of the plan. He still did not shed any light on which industries will be "green lighted" come Monday. What we do know is that schools will not be. So, as we head back to work the need for safe child care options are paramount.
To help our communities ramp up their ability to meet these growing needs we will be focusing on guidelines for safely opening child care programs.
General Preparedness and Planning
According to the CDC, no matter the level of transmission in a community, every child care program should have a plan in place to protect staff, children, and their families from the spread of COVID-19. As you think about how your facility will deal with the impact of COVID-19, it is important to work with your local health officials, school districts, child care licensing boards/bodies, child care accreditation bodies, health consultants, and other community partners to determine the most appropriate plan and action.
Prevent the Spread of COVID-19
Plan ahead to ensure adequate supplies to support hand hygiene behaviors and routine cleaning of objects and surfaces. If you have difficulty in obtaining these supplies, please contact your local Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) Agency to learn more about service organizations in your community who may have additional resources. Your local CCR&R Agency can be found under “Resources” at Child Care Aware of America.
Cover your mouth and nose with a cloth face covering when you have to go out in public.
Cloth face coverings should NOT be put on babies and children under age two because of the danger of suffocation.
Require sick children and staff to stay home
No matter the symptoms or their severity these difficult times require a steadfast and unwavering response to potential contagion. Evidence suggests that COVID-19 manifests itself differently case-by-case therefore extreme caution must be taken in any case of potential illness. This will require educating your staff and clientele. Unfortunately, this may also necessitate the refusal of admission to those, staff and clients, showing signs of illness.
Communicate to parents the importance of keeping children home when they are sick.
Communicate to staff the importance of being vigilant for symptoms and staying in touch with facility management if or when they start to feel sick.
Establish procedures to ensure children and staff who come to the child care center sick or become sick while at your facility are sent home as soon as possible.
Keep sick children and staff separate from well children and staff until they can be sent home.
We will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, FDA, OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for reopening. Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every business has access to the resources necessary to meet these strict guidelines. For those businesses, we are here to help!
Specialized Training
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal, everyday cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together!
This is the ninth installment in a series of blogs that we hope will help our communities begin to prepare for the state of Massachusetts to reopen. During his Wednesday press conference Governor Charlie Baker said he expects to announce a decision on whether to extend or lift the current stay-at-home advisory on Monday. While any change in the stay-at-home advisory remains uncertain it is important to continue our preparations for reopening the Commonwealth.
To get a head of the curve the following is the CDC's industry specific best practices for reopening Transit Stations.
What to know
For transit station workers, potential sources of exposure include having close contact with a transit passenger with COVID-19, by touching surfaces contaminated with coronavirus, or by touching your mouth, nose, or eyes. The CDC's understanding of how the virus spreads is evolving. Most evidence shows that the virus is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person:
Between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet).
Through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks.
How to protect transit workers
Limit close contact with others by maintaining a distance of at least 6 feet, when possible.
Avoid touching surfaces often touched by transit passengers.
Practice routine cleaning and disinfection of frequently touched surfaces, following the directions on the cleaning product’s label.
Use gloves if required to touch surfaces contaminated by body fluids.
Proper hand hygiene is an important infection control measure. Wash your hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol.
Key times to clean hands in general include:
Before, during, and after preparing food
Before eating food
After using the toilet
After blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing
Additional times to clean hands on the job include:
Before and after work shifts
Before and after work breaks
After touching frequently touched surfaces
After putting on, touching, or removing cloth face coverings
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth.
What to clean
Perform routine cleaning and disinfection of all frequently touched non-porous surfaces within the transit station on a daily basis. These include kiosks, ticket machines, turnstiles, benches, handrails, garbage cans, door handles, payphones, restroom surfaces (e.g., faucets, toilets, counters), elevator buttons, and system maps. If the surfaces are visibly dirty, they should be cleaned prior to disinfectant application. For soft or porous surfaces, remove any visible contamination if present and clean with appropriate cleansers indicated for use on these surfaces.
Appropriate disinfectants include
EPA’s Registered Antimicrobial Products for Use Against Novel Coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, the cause of COVID-19, are expected to be effective against COVID-19 based on data for harder to kill viruses. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for all cleaning and disinfection products (e.g., concentration, application method, and contact time). A list of products with EPA-approved emerging viral pathogens claims is available at: Approved Disinfectants.
Diluted household bleach solutions prepared according to the manufacturers label for disinfection can be used if appropriate for the surface. Follow manufacturer’s instructions for application and proper ventilation. Check to ensure the product is not past its expiration date. Never mix household bleach with ammonia or any other cleanser. Unexpired household bleach will be effective against coronaviruses when properly diluted.
Alcohol solutions with at least 70% alcohol.
It is important to remember to wear the personal protective equipment (PPE) required for using the cleaning and disinfection products according to the product manufacturer’s instructions. Also, after removing PPE, wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Work uniforms worn during cleaning and disinfecting should be laundered afterwards. When possible, launder items using the warmest appropriate water setting for the items and dry items completely. Once again, clean your hands after handling laundry by washing your hands with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available.
We will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, FDA, OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for reopening. Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every business has access to the resources necessary to meet these strict guidelines. For those businesses, we are here to help!
Specialized Training
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal, everyday cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together!
This is the eighth installment in a series of blogs that we hope will help our communities begin to prepare for the state of Massachusetts to reopen.
Tuesday, during his press conference, Governor Baker seemed determined not to reveal any new information about what specific types of businesses might be allowed to reopen first. As it stands, next Monday the Reopening Advisory Board will present its full report. At that time we will learn which activities and industries are deemed to be safe to resume in each phase. Included will be protocols for how different industries should operate to ensure public safety.
To get a head of the curve the following is the FDA's industry specific best practices for Retail Food Stores, Restaurants, and Food Pick-Up/Delivery Services.
Managing Employee Health
Instruct employees with symptoms associated with COVID-19 to report them to their supervisors. Instruct sick employees to stay home and to follow the CDC’s What to do if you are sick with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Consult with the local health department for additional guidance.
If an employee is sick at work, send them home immediately. Clean and disinfect surfaces in their workspace. Others at the facility with close contact (i.e., within 6 feet) of the employee during this time should be considered exposed.
Instruct employees who are well, but know they have been exposed to COVID-19, to notify their supervisor and follow CDC-recommended precautions (see below).
Inform fellow employees of their possible exposure to COVID-19 in the workplace, if an employee is confirmed to have COVID-19, while maintaining confidentiality.
Implement workplace controls to reduce transmission among employees, such as those described below which can be found in the CDC's Guidance for Implementing Safety Practices for workers who may have had exposure to a person thought or known to have COVID-19.
Employers - Pre-screen (e.g., take temperature and assess symptoms prior to starting work).
Employers - Disinfect and clean work spaces and equipment, and consider more frequent cleaning of high touch surfaces.
Employees - Regularly self-monitor (e.g., take temperature and assess symptoms of coronavirus).
Employees - Wear a mask or face covering.
Employees - Practice social distancing and stay at least 6 feet from other people whenever possible.
For additional information when employees may have been exposed to COVID-19, refer to CDC’s Guidance for Implementing Safety Practices for workers who may have had exposure to a person thought or known to have COVID-19.
Frequently review the CDC, FDA and OSHA websites for updates to their guidelines.
We will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, FDA, OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for reopening. Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every business has access to the resources necessary to meet these strict guidelines. For those businesses, we are here to help!
Specialized Training
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal, everyday cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together!
This is the seventh installment in a series of blogs that we hope will help our communities begin to prepare for the state of Massachusetts to reopen. Yesterday, Governor Baker revealed his 4-stage approach to reopening the state's economy in a COVID-19 world.
Phases
Start - "We're looking at industries that are more naturally set up to have little face-to-face interactions and workplaces that are better able to manage face-to-face customer interactions with certain conditions."
Cautious - "We plan to have more industries with more face-to-face interactions resume operations, again with conditions."
Vigilant - "Where we can allow for loosening of some of the restrictions from the earlier phases if, in fact, the public health data continues to conform to the terms we're all pursuing."
New Normal - "We all know life will be different but as the medical and life sciences communities make progress in developing treatments or vaccines, we can really begin to put this virus into the rear-view mirror."
Reopening the state of Massachusetts requires all of us to move forward together using recommended best practices and maintaining safe daily habits in order to reduce our risk of exposure to COVID-19. Here are some important reminders from the CDC to follow to ensure we continue to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 within the Commonwealth.
Maintain safe behavioral practices
We have all had to make significant behavioral changes to reduce the spread of COVID-19. To reopen Massachusetts, we will need to continue these practices:
social distancing (specifically, staying 6 feet away from others when you must go into a shared space)
frequently washing hands or use alcohol-based (at least 60% alcohol) hand sanitizer when soap and water are not available
wearing cloth face coverings
avoiding touching eyes, nose, and mouth
staying home when sick
cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched objects and surfaces
It’s important to continue to follow federal, state, and local guidance for reopening Massachusetts. Check this resource for updates on COVID-19. This will help you change your plan when situations are updated.
Consider practices that reduce the potential for exposure
It is also essential to change the ways we use public spaces to work, live, and play. We should continue thinking about our safety and the safety of others.
To reduce your exposure to or the risk of spreading COVID-19 after reopening your business or facility, consider whether you need to touch certain surfaces or materials. Consider wiping public surfaces before and after you touch them. These types of behavioral adjustments can help reduce the spread of COVID-19. There are other resources for more information on COVID-19 and how to Prevent Getting Sick.
We will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC and the Governor's office to follow to prepare for reopening. Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every business has access to the resources necessary to meet these strict guidelines. For those businesses, we are here to help!
Specialized Training
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal, everyday cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together!
This is the sixth installment in a series of blogs that we hope will help our communities begin to prepare for the state of Massachusetts to reopen. Please keep in mind the purpose of these CDC guidelines are to serve as a foundation for your planning.
Implement your plan
Once you have a plan, it’s time to take action. Read all manufacturer’s instructions for the cleaning and disinfection products you will use. Put on your gloves and other required personal protective equipment (PPE) to begin the process of cleaning and disinfecting.
Clean visibly dirty surfaces with soap and water
The CDC recommends that you clean surfaces and objects using soap and water prior to disinfection. Always wear gloves appropriate for the chemicals being used for routine cleaning and disinfecting. Follow the directions on the disinfectant label for additional PPE needs. When you finish cleaning, remember to wash hands thoroughly with soap and water.
Clean or launder soft and porous materials like seating in an office or coffee shop, area rugs, and carpets. Launder items according to the manufacturer’s instructions, using the warmest temperature setting possible and dry items completely.
Use appropriate cleaning or disinfectant products
The EPA has approved cleaning and disinfectant products that when applied according to the manufacturer’s label, are effective for use against COVID-19. Follow the instructions on the label for all cleaning and disinfection products for concentration, dilution, application method, contact time and any other special considerations when applying.
Follow the directions on the label
Follow the instructions on the label to ensure safe and effective use of the product. Many product labels recommend keeping the surface wet for a specific amount of time. The label will also list precautions such as wearing gloves and making sure you have good ventilation during use of the product. Keep all disinfectants out of the reach of children.
Maintain and revise your plan
This is the most essential step to take to ensure that we open the Commonwealth safely. Continue to update your plan based on updated guidance and your current circumstances. No plan is perfect and many times we forget things during the planning process. Make certain that if steps or items to be cleaned or disinfected are found to have been accidentally omitted from the pan that they are included to the plan as soon as they are discovered. Do not assume that, "we will remember the changes." Also, update the plans for any changes to the workplace. Additionally, your plan will need to be updated should your first choice of cleaner/disinfectant is in short supply or becomes no longer available.
Continue to take steps to reduce your risk of exposure to the virus that causes COVID-19 during daily activities. Do not loose sight of the need for routine cleaning and disinfecting as they are an equally important part of reducing the risk of exposure to COVID-19. Remember, the "frequency of use" will dictate the levels of cleaning and disinfecting that will be necessary to ensure a safe environment for your employees and customers. For example, certain surfaces and objects in public spaces, such as shopping carts and point of sale keypads, should be cleaned and disinfected before each use.
We will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC to follow to prepare for reopening. Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every business has access to the resources necessary to meet these strict guidelines. For those businesses, we are here to help!
Specialized Training
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal, everyday cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together!
Planning To Reopen - Identify What Needs To Be Disinfected
This is the fifth installment in a series of blogs that we hope will help our communities begin to prepare for the state of Massachusetts to reopen. Please keep in mind the purpose of these CDC guidelines are to serve as a foundation for your planning.
Cross reference the list of approved products to determine the most appropriate disinfectant for the surface or object to be cleaned. Pay special attention to the personal protective equipment (PPE) that may be needed to safely apply the disinfectant as well as the manufacturer’s recommendations concerning any additional hazards. Remember to keep all disinfectants out of the reach of children. Please visit CDC’s website on How to Clean andDisinfect for additional details and warnings.
According to the CDC frequently touched surfaces and objects will require routine disinfection. Some examples are:
tables and countertops
doorknobs and handles
light switches
desks
phones
keyboards
toilets, faucets and sinks
gas pump handles
touch screens and pens
ATM and Credit Card machines
Disinfecting soft and porous material, carpet, rugs, or seating areas
Soft and porous materials are generally not as easy to disinfect as hard and non-porous surfaces. The EPA has also approved a limited list of products for disinfection of soft and porous materials. The CDC recommends that soft and porous materials which are not frequently touched should only be cleaned or laundered, following the directions on the item’s label, using the warmest appropriate water setting. Find more information on CDC’s website on Cleaning and Disinfecting Your Facility for developing strategies for dealing with soft and porous materials.
Each business or facility will have different surfaces and objects that are frequently touched by multiple people. For example the CDC has provided specific guidance for transit stations. To view the CDC's cleaning and disinfection guidance for transit stations click here.
Consider the resources and equipment needed
Keep in mind the availability of cleaning and disinfection products and appropriate PPE. Always wear gloves appropriate for the chemicals being used for cleaning and disinfecting. Follow the directions on the disinfectant label for additional PPE needs. In specific instances, personnel with specialized training and equipment may be required to apply certain disinfectants such as fumigants or fogs. For more information on appropriate PPE for cleaning and disinfection, see CDC’s website on Cleaning and Disinfection for Community Facilities.
We will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC to follow to prepare for reopening. Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every business has access to the resources necessary to meet these strict guidelines. For those businesses, we are here to help!
Specialized Training
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal, everyday cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together!
Planning To Reopen - Identify What Needs To Be Cleaned
This is the fourth installment in a series of blogs that we hope will help our communities begin to prepare for the state of Massachusetts to reopen. Please keep in mind the purpose of these CDC guidelines are to serve as a foundation for your planning.
Determine what needs to be cleaned
According to the CDC some surfaces only need to be cleaned with soap and water. For example, surfaces and objects that are not frequently touched should be cleaned and do not require additional disinfection. Additionally, disinfectants should typically not be applied on items used by children, especially any items that children might put in their mouths. Many disinfectants are toxic when swallowed. In a household setting, cleaning toys and other items used by children with soap and water is usually sufficient. Find more information on cleaning and disinfection toys and other surfaces in the childcare program setting at CDC’s Guidance for Childcare Programs that Remain Open.
These questions will help you decide which surfaces and objects will need normal routine cleaning.
Outdoor Areas
Generally, outdoor areas require normal routine cleaning and disinfection is not necessary. Spraying disinfectant on sidewalks and in parks is not an efficient use of disinfectant supplies and has not been proven to reduce the risk of COVID-19 to the public. You should maintain existing cleaning and hygiene practices for outdoor areas.Certain outdoor areas and facilities, such as bars and restaurants, may have additional requirements. More information can be found on FDA’s website on Food Safety and COVID-19.
According to the CDC no evidence has been shown suggesting that the virus that causes COVID-19 can spread directly to humans from water in pools, hot tubs, spas, or water play areas. The CDC recommends proper operation, maintenance, and disinfection (chlorine or bromine) of pools, hot tubs, spas, and water playgrounds to ensure safe usage. However, there are additional concerns with outdoor areas that may be maintained less frequently, including playgrounds, or other facilities located within local or state parks. For more information, visit CDC’s website on Visiting Parks & Recreational Facilities.
The 7 Day Guidleine
If your workplace, school, or business has been unoccupied for 7 days or more, it will only need your normal routine cleaning to reopen the area. This is because the virus that causes COVID-19 has not been shown to survive on surfaces longer than this time.
Keep in mind that there are many public health considerations, not just COVID-19 related, when reopening public buildings and spaces that have been closed for extended periods. For example, take measures to ensure the safety of your building water system.
We will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC to follow to prepare for reopening. Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every business has access to the resources necessary to meet these strict guidelines. For those businesses, we are here to help!
Specialized Training
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal, everyday cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together!
This is the third installment in a series of blogs that we hope will help our communities begin to prepare for the state of Massachusetts to reopen. Please keep in mind the purpose of these CDC guidelines are to serve as a foundation for your planning.
Developing Your Plan
Evaluate your workplace, school, home, or business to determine what kinds of surfaces and materials make up that area. Most surfaces and objects will just need normal routine cleaning. Frequently touched surfaces and objects like light switches and doorknobs will need to be cleaned and then disinfected to further reduce the risk of germs on surfaces and objects.
First, clean the surface or object with soap and water.
If an EPA-approved disinfectant is unavailable, you can use 1/3 cup of bleach added to 1 gallon of water, or 70% alcohol solutions to disinfect. Do not mix bleach or other cleaning and disinfection products together. Find additional information at CDC’s website on Cleaning and Disinfecting Your Facility.
You should also consider what items can be moved or removed completely to reduce frequent handling or contact from multiple people. Soft and porous materials, such as area rugs and seating, may be removed or stored to reduce the challenges with cleaning and disinfecting them. Find additional reopening guidance for cleaning and disinfecting in the Reopening Decision Tool.
It is critical that your plan includes how to maintain a cleaning and disinfecting strategy after reopening. Develop a flexible plan with your staff or family, adjusting the plan as federal, state, tribal, territorial, or local guidance is updated and if your specific circumstances change.
Keep in mind, if you oversee staff in a workplace your plan should include considerations about the safety of custodial staff and other people who are carrying out the cleaning or disinfecting. These people are at increased risk of being exposed to the virus and to any toxic effects of the cleaning chemicals. Your plan should include training for the following;
Appropriate PPE for cleaning and disinfecting
Cleaning of PPE and/or proper disposal if necessary
How to safely apply disinfectants
How to properly dispose of contaminated materials that can not be safely cleaned
For more information on concerns related to cleaning staff, visit the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s website on Control and Prevention.
We will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC to follow to prepare for reopening. Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every business has access to the resources necessary to meet these strict guidelines. For those businesses, we are here to help!
Specialized Training
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal, everyday cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together!
This is the second installment in a series of blogs that we will hope will help our communities begin to prepare for the state of Massachusetts to reopen. Please keep in mind the purpose of these CDC guidelines are to serve as a foundation for your planning. The following are some important reminders to keep in mind as we plan to reopen in the safest possible manner.
Reminders about COVID-19 and Reducing the Risk of Exposure:
Coronaviruses on surfaces and objects naturally die within hours to days. Warmer temperatures and exposure to sunlight will reduce the time the virus survives on surfaces and objects.
Normal routine cleaning with soap and water removes germs and dirt from surfaces. It lowers the risk of spreading COVID-19 infection.
Disinfectants kill germs on surfaces. By killing germs on a surface after cleaning, you can further lower the risk of spreading infection. EPA-approved disinfectants are an important part of reducing the risk of exposure to COVID-19. If disinfectants on this list are in short supply, alternative disinfectants can be used (for example, 1/3 cup of bleach added to 1 gallon of water, or 70% alcohol solutions).
Store and use disinfectants in a responsible and appropriate manner according to the label. Do not mix bleach or other cleaning and disinfection products together–this can cause fumes that may be very dangerous to breathe in. Keep all disinfectants out of the reach of children.
Do not overuse or stockpile disinfectants or other supplies. This can result in shortages of appropriate products for others to use in critical situations.
Always wear gloves appropriate for the chemicals being used when you are cleaning and disinfecting. Additional personal protective equipment (PPE) may be needed based on setting and product. For more information, see CDC’s website on Cleaning and Disinfection for Community Facilities.
Practice social distancing, wear facial coverings, and follow proper prevention hygiene, such as washing your hands frequently and using alcohol-based (at least 60% alcohol) hand sanitizer when soap and water are not available.
We will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC to follow to prepare for reopening. Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every business has access to the resources necessary to meet these strict guidelines. For those businesses, we are here to help!
Specialized Training
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal, everyday cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together!
This is the first installment in a series of blogs that we will hope will help our communities begin to prepare for the state of Massachusetts to reopen. Please keep in mind the purpose of these CDC guidelines are to serve as a foundation for your planning. To reduce the risk of a Covid-19 infestation having a plan in place to execute and monitor is necessary. These guidelines are part of the larger United States Government plan and focus on cleaning and disinfecting public spaces, workplaces, businesses, schools, and can also be applied to your home.
Cleaning and disinfecting public spaces including your workplace, school, home, and business will require you to:
Develop your plan
Implement your plan
Maintain and revise your plan
Reopening the Commonwealth requires both, remaining vigilant in adhering to social distancing and other daily habits, as well as, reducing the risk of exposure to COVID-19 by cleaning and disinfecting. The EPA has compiled a list of disinfectant products that can be used against COVID-19.
The following is a general framework for cleaning and disinfection practices to use in your planning.
Normal routine cleaning with soap and water will decrease how much of the virus is on surfaces and objects, which reduces the risk of exposure.
Disinfection using EPA-approved disinfectants against COVID-19 can also help reduce the risk. Frequent disinfection of surfaces and objects touched by multiple people is important.
When EPA-approved disinfectants are not available, alternative disinfectants can be used (for example, 1/3 cup of bleach added to 1 gallon of water, or 70% alcohol solutions). Do not mix bleach or other cleaning and disinfection products together. This can cause fumes that may be very dangerous to breathe in. Keep all disinfectants out of the reach of children.
We will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC to follow to prepare for reopening. Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every business has access to the resources necessary to meet these strict guidelines. For those businesses, we are here to help!
Specialized Training
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal, everyday cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together!
At the beginning of the week, Gov. Charlie Baker, shared some optimistic news, "We have flattened the curve." While this news fanned the flames of hope for many here in the Commonwealth it was not without caution that our descent to the bottom will not be a quick one and that we must remain vigilant in our response to the Covid-19 pandemic and he extended the state’s stay-at-home advisory and non-essential business closure to May 18 as well as the ban on gatherings of 10 or more people. Baker also announced the formation of a 17-member advisory board that will develop a plan to reopen the state on a "phased basis."
While this was not exactly the news we all were hoping to hear, a silver lining remains. Barring any unforeseen Covid-19 spike over the next two weeks business owners can begin to plan for the possibility of reopening. Obviously in the beginning this will not be "business-as-usual". There will most assuredly be some level of restrictions to ensure the safety of employees and customers. That is where we come in.
We will be sharing with you guidance from the CDC to follow to prepare for reopening. We at SERVPRO of Framingham also know that not every business has access to the resources necessary to meet these strict guidelines. For those businesses, we are here to help!
Specialized Training
The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal, everyday cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together!
As we continue to navigate these uncharted waters amidst the Covid-19 pandemic it remains paramount that we understand and focus on the impacts to both our physical and mental well being. From fear of infection to fear of paying the mortgage the amount of negative stimuli impacting our mental well being has never been greater! During these difficult times, focusing on maintaining and improving our collective total wellness will help us to better cope with the many stresses in our lives and will make us, the people we care about, and our communities stronger.
Wellness is not merely the absence of illness or distress – it is striving for positive physical, mental and social well-being. It is a lifelong process of making decisions that support a more balanced life and enable you to maximize your potential. Because mental health and physical health are linked, problems in one area can impact the other. There are always opportunities for enhancing your wellness. A good place to start is self-reflection and goal-setting. A Wellness Wheel is an effective tool to help this process.
According to Boston University there are Eight Dimensions of Wellness.
Emotional - Coping effectively with life and creating satisfying relationships
Environment - Good health by occupying pleasant, stimulating environments that support well-being
Financial - Satisfaction with current and future financial situations
Intellectual - Recognizing creative abilities and finding ways to expand knowledge and skills
Occupational - Personal satisfaction and enrichment from one’s work (substitute Academics for our children)
Physical - Recognizing the need for physical activity, healthy foods, and sleep
Social - Developing a sense of connection, belonging, and a well-developed support system
Spiritual - Expanding a sense of purpose and meaning in life
A wellness wheel is a versatile, broad-strokes tool to look at the full picture of our collective wellbeing. Know that there is no right or wrong answer when it comes to the wellness wheel and it will look different at different times in our lives. The key is to notice if there are imbalances that are posing challenges or limiting us in some way. If so, make a conscious decision to take steps that lead to a meaningful change.
Remember that wellness is not the absence of illness or stress. You can still strive for wellness even if you are experiencing these challenges in your life.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
Fire damage in Hopkinton, MA can run the gamut from smoke and soot particles left on surfaces to charring, scorching, and other, direct, physical damage. Much of what our certifiedDisaster Remediation teams clean and restore after a fire is the structure and its components.
A residential or commercial structure is not just the walls, frame, and the roof. It also includes doors, windows, floor coverings, and more. Structural components include items such as the light fixtures, cabinets, and the heating and air system. Quickly cleaning off the soot and other particles left behind after the fire can reduce and even prevent damage. For cleaning, our teams have two methods: Washable and Non-Washable.
Washable
Washable involves using a water-based cleaner on materials that do not damage the surface, i.e., marble or stone countertops. The Non-Washable method is for materials that would suffer further damage if they get wet. That includes paper items and drywall.
With the Washable method, SERVPRO restoration teams can also use more intense cleaning actions like agitation. That means using stiff brushes and even power tools to force the cleaning agents into the surfaces strong enough to support the action.
Non-Washable
With the Non-Washable method, materials also require a less intensive method of removal. After applying a powdered cleaner to combine with the smoke and soot particles, team members use soft brushes, dry sponges, and cloths to wipe down the surfaces. Cloths and sponges are also very useful for wiping down kitchen cabinets and glass surfaces, especially light fixtures.
If your commercial or residential property has suffered damage from a fire call the experts at SERVPRO of Framingham. We are also available if you simply need questions answered - call us today at (508) 370-4400. We will make it, "Like it never even happened."
A fire incident is one of the most destructive mishaps that can affect yourBellingham, MA commercial or residential property. Fire incidents vary greatly depending on the source, intensity, and the duration of the combustion process. Therefore, you can expect a wide range of damages whenever such an incident affects your property. In most cases, you need help from certified experts like the Disaster Remediation teams atSERVPRO of Framingham.
Mountain of Debris
Piles of debris are a common outcome of fire damage incidents. As the flames consume different materials, the combustion process is rarely complete, so the fire only damages some materials partially. Apart from the flames, firefighting agents such as water also soak into materials causing irreparable damages. Ceiling and wall panel remnants are likely to produce a significant percentage of the debris. SERVPRO of Framingham technicians will remove ruined materials still attached to frames before beginning a thorough cleanup process.
Non-functional Utilities
When fires are intense enough, they reach the cavities in walls and ceilings where utility lines such as plumbing, power cables, and ducts pass, consuming or damaging them. Apart from the failure to function, some utility lines might also pose dangers. For example, damages power lines can cause electric shocks. Our technicians will turn off main supply lines and remove all the spoiled lines.
Soot Everywhere
As fires burn, smoke movements are almost indiscriminate since they follow convection currents and even closed doors or other similar barriers do not stop the smoke movement. It is common to get soot deposits almost everywhere in the house including on wall surfaces, closets and many other places. Soot bonds with surfaces, so removal requires a combination of both wet and dry cleaning methods. Soot also alters materials through corrosion or staining, so it is essential to respond fast to avoid permanent damage.
Recovering from fire damage inBellingham, MA requires fast, expert help. Call SERVPRO of Framingham at (508) 370-4400 today! We will make it, "Like it never even happened."
More than 4.4 million Americans filed for unemployment last week alone. Sadly, the number of Commonwealth residents who are finding themselves on the sidelines out of the work force continues to grow at a record pace, including over 80,000 new claims in Massachusetts. According to U.S. Department of Labor statistics released Thursday over 80,000 new claims were filed in Massachusetts. While the claims in the Bay State are down from the prior week when a little over 100,000 people filing new claims, the despairing reality is that, in total, over the past five weeks more than 650,000 people in Massachusetts have filed for jobless benefits. This means that during the worst pandemic in over 100 years hundreds of thousands of Bay Staters most likely lack the health coverage necessary to shield them from financial ruin should they or a family member contract COVID-19.
Health Insurance Coverage for Unemployed
If you need insurance, you may qualify for coverage through the Health Connector if you’ve lost coverage from a job. An extended enrollment period is available through May 25, 2020 in response to the COVID-19 outbreak.Apply today and get covered –
Enroll by April 23rd - Coverage begins May 1st
Enroll by May 23rd - Coverage begins June 1st
Enroll by May 25th - Coverage begins July 1st
The Health Connector is a state agency and health insurance marketplace that makes coverage available to people who recently lost their insurance from their employer. Most people who apply through the Health Connector can get a plan for a low monthly cost, and some people even qualify for a $0 monthly payment.
All Health Connector plans cover services like doctor visits, emergency care, physical therapy, and prescription drugs.
In response to the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, an extended enrollment period is available through May 25, 2020 for qualified Massachusetts residents who are uninsured.
When youfill out an application online, you’ll find out right away if you qualify for a health plan from the Health Connector or coverage through MassHealth. Visit the MassHealth FAQ to learn more.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
As our collective financial uncertainty continues to grow during these uncertain times many of us have questions regarding relief promised to us by our political leaders. In response to the great lockdown necessitated by COVID-19, the federal government passed a $2.2 trillion coronavirus stimulus bill. The intent of Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) provides financial support to individuals and businesses.
The CARES Act included many components including direct stimulus checks to Americans. Individuals who qualify will receive a one-time remittance of:
$1,200 for individuals
$2,400 for married couples
$500 for each dependent child 16-years-old or younger
Check the Status of Your Stimulus Payment through the IRS
The US Internal Revenue Service (IRS) launched the Get My Payment tool for Americans to check the status of their Economic Impact Payment stimulus checks, a minimum of $1,200 each for single filers with an adjusted gross income of $75,000 or less.
Beware of Stimulus Check Scams
Unfortunately there are those who will try to take advantage of the current pandemic and try to steal your personal financial information. Be smart, use common sense and do not open or respond to any unsolicited inquiries. One known scam brought to light by The Michigan Cyber Command Center (MC3) is a phishing email circulating, appearing to be from the U.S. Small Business Administration. The email contains a malicious attachment named
For more information regarding Financial Aid during these difficult times, for yourself or your business, visit the Neponset River Regional Chamber website.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
A lot has been discussed regarding the importance of reopening America and how to do so responsibly. The proposed three phase Federal guideline offers State and local Governments a roadmap to follow. Ultimately, however, the decision resides with each state. Over the past week Governor Baker has classified Massachusetts as, “one of the country’s hot spots for the coronavirus” and that he is looking for, “14 days of steady declines in positive coronavirus tests before the state can open up again.”
What does this mean for the citizens of the Commonwealth who have been, and will continue to be, impacted by the state’s closure? If you are unemployed due to the coronavirus pandemic, an independent contractor or a small business owner struggling to pay the bills, here are some useful links:
Pandemic Unemployment Assistance
To assist individuals who cannot work due to the impact of COVID-19, the Baker-Polito administration has filed emergency legislation and emergency regulations that allow people impacted by COVID-19 to collect unemployment if their workplace is shut down.
Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) provides up to 39 weeks of unemployment benefits to individuals who are unable to work because of a COVID-19-related reason but are not eligible for regular or extended unemployment benefits.
Independent contractors and self-employed workers can apply for forgivable loans through the Payroll Protection Program - a $349 million segment of the $2 trillion federal CARES Act. Independent contractors receiving 1099-MISC forms and self-employed individuals are eligible to apply for these, potentially 100 percent, forgivable loans.
REQUIREMENT: You must have been in operation on Feb. 15, 2020, your business must have been harmed by the COVID-19 pandemic, and you must submit required documentation along with your loan application.
Small Business Owners
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has issued updated guidance that it will provide initial EIDL loan disbursements of up to $15,000, in addition to the advance of up the $10,000 detailed in the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) Program Guide.
The U.S. Chamber sent a letter to Capitol Hill urging members of congress to swiftly increase funding for the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) in addition to renewing funding for the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program.
Here are the funding options available to small businesses:
For more information regarding Financial Aid during these difficult times, for yourself or your business, visit the Neponset River Regional Chamber website.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!
It is hard not to be overwhelmed with the abundance of information there is regarding the unfathomable reality we are all facing. While the oceans of information and changes we are making are necessary, they may be having a negative impact to our collective mental well being. Children especially not only need help understanding the world around them, but most importantly, need reassurance that this too will pass.
For those of us with a full house looking for any activity to pass the time (other than binge watching Netflix originals) here is suggestion: create a Vision Board!
A Vision Board is a tool used to help clarify, concentrate and maintain focus on a specific life goal. It can also be a visualization tool that sets an intention for what our children want, might need and how they want to feel. By displaying images and inspirational words that matter to our children, they are creating a visual representation of what they want and will continually reinforces that.
This simple exercise can serve as a fun family activity and a wonderful coping tool that will take our children’s attention away from their current struggles and help them to focus on, and shape, their future! Here are some of the things that you will need to get started:
Supplies
Poster board or a cork board
Construction paper
Plenty of Magazines
Scissors
Gel Pens
Glue, tape or thumbtacks
Vision Board Guidance
Try to keep directions to a minimum and let your children dream big! Have them focus on how they want to feel, not just on material things they may want. Come up with a series of open ended questions that will help guide them. Then let them run with it! Here are some examples of open ended guiding questions:
Suggestions
What do you want to be when you grow up?
Where would you like to travel to this year?
What fun activities would you like to do?
If you can help someone, how would you do it?
Who do you love?
What makes you feel loved?
Anything that inspires and motivates them is fair game. When the Vision Boards are complete talk to your children about their creations and hang them for all to see. Let them know that they can make changes to their boards whenever they like and remember to discuss any changes they make with them.
During these challenging times, much like inspirational quotes or sayings, using Vision Boards to help focus on our futures is a healthy coping strategy to employ. Doing so can greatly improve your families’ collective mental well being.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together!
As time passes and we continue to self quarantine and remain steadfast in our fight against the spread of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) it is only natural for children to ask questions. Those questions, and perhaps fears, will only increase as States decide to close schools permanently for the 2019-2020 school year. The CDC has provided facts about COVID – 19 for discussions with children. When you are having these discussions remember to try to keep the information you share age appropriate. Also, remind your children that everyone in your community along with school officials are working hard to keep everyone safe and healthy.
What is COVID-19?
COVID-19 is the short name for “coronavirus disease 2019.” It is a new virus. Doctors and scientists are still learning about it.
Recently, this virus has made a lot of people sick. Scientists and doctors think that most people will be ok, especially kids, but some people might get pretty sick.
Doctors and health experts are working hard to help people stay healthy.
What can I do so that I don’t get COVID-19?
You can practice healthy habits at home, school, and play to help protect against the spread of COVID-19:
Cough or sneeze into a tissue or your elbow. If you sneeze or cough into a tissue, throw it in the trash right away.
Keep your hands out of your mouth, nose, and eyes. This will help keep germs out of your body.
Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Follow these five steps—wet, lather (make bubbles), scrub (rub together), rinse and dry. You can sing the “Happy Birthday” song twice.
If you don’t have soap and water, have an adult help you use a special hand cleaner.
Keep things clean. Older children can help adults at home and school clean the things we touch the most, like desks, doorknobs, light switches, and remote controls. (Note for adults: you can find more information about cleaning and disinfecting on CDC’s website.)
If you feel sick, stay home. Just like you don’t want to get other people’s germs in your body other people don’t want to get your germs either.
What happens if you get sick with COVID-19?
COVID-19 can look different in different people. For many people, being sick with COVID-19 would be a little bit like having the flu. People can get a fever, cough, or have a hard time taking deep breaths. Most people who have gotten COVID-19 have not gotten very sick. Only a small group of people who get it have had more serious problems. From what doctors have seen so far, most children don’t seem to get very sick. While a lot of adults get sick, most adults get better.
If you do get sick, it doesn’t mean you have COVID-19. People can get sick from all kinds of germs. What’s important to remember is that if you do get sick, the adults at home and school will help get you any help that you need.
If you suspect your child may have COVID-19, call the healthcare facility to let them know before you bring your child in to see them.
For more information on COVID-19 and how best to improve your mental wellbeing during these uncertain times visit the Centers for Disease Control website.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together!
As public conversations around coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) increase, children may worry about themselves, their family, and friends getting ill with COVID-19. Parents play an important role in helping children make sense of what they hear in a way that is honest, accurate, and minimizes anxiety or fear. The CDC has created guidance to help adults have conversations with children about COVID-19 and ways they can avoid getting and spreading the disease.
Remain calm and reassuring.
Remember that children will react to both what you say and how you say it. They will pick up cues from the conversations you have with them and with others.
Make yourself available to listen and to talk.
Make time to talk. Be sure children know they can come to you when they have questions.
Avoid language that might blame others and lead to stigma.
Remember that viruses can make anyone sick, regardless of a person’s race or ethnicity. Avoid making assumptions about who might have COVID-19.
Pay attention to what children see or hear on television, radio, or online.
Consider reducing the amount of screen time focused on COVID-19. Too much information on one topic can lead to anxiety.
Provide information that is honest and accurate.
Give children information that is truthful and appropriate for the age and developmental level of the child.
Talk to children about how some stories on COVID-19 on the Internet and social media may be based on rumors and inaccurate information.
Teach children everyday actions to reduce the spread of germs.
Remind children to stay away from people who are coughing or sneezing or sick.
Remind them to cough or sneeze into a tissue or their elbow, then throw the tissue into the trash.
Discuss any new actions that may be taken at school to help protect children and school staff. (e.g., increased handwashing, cancellation of events or activities)
Get children into a handwashing habit.
Teach them to wash their hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after blowing their nose, coughing, or sneezing; going to the bathroom; and before eating or preparing food.
If soap and water are not available, teach them to use hand sanitizer. Hand sanitizer should contain at least 60% alcohol. Supervise young children when they use hand sanitizer to prevent swallowing alcohol, especially in schools and child care facilities.
For more information on COVID-19 and how best to improve your mental wellbeing during these uncertain times visit the Centers for Disease Control website.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together!
According to the CDC most people who get sick with COVID-19 will have only mild illness and may decide to recover at home. Care at home can help stop the spread of COVID-19 and help protect people who are at risk for getting seriously ill from COVID-19.
Here are steps to follow to help car for your loved ones and to remain safe.
Provide symptom treatment
Make sure the sick person drinks a lot of fluids to stay hydrated and rests at home.
Over-the-counter medicines may help with symptoms.
For most people, symptoms last a few days and get better after a week.
Prevent the spread of germs when caring for someone who is sick
Have the person stay in one room, away from other people, including yourself, as much as possible.
If possible, have them use a separate bathroom.
Avoid sharing personal household items, like dishes, towels, and bedding
Have them wear a cloth face covering (that covers their nose and mouth) when they are around people, including you.
It the sick person can’t wear a cloth face covering, you should wear one while in the same room with them.
If the sick person needs to be around others (within the home, in a vehicle, or doctor’s office), they should wear a cloth face covering that covers their mouth and nose.
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after interacting with the sick person. If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub them together until they feel dry.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
Every day, clean all surfaces that are touched often, like counters, tabletops, and doorknobs
Use household cleaning sprays or wipes according to the label instructions.
Wash laundry thoroughly.
If laundry is soiled, wear disposable gloves and keep the soiled items away from your body while laundering. Wash your hands immediately after removing gloves.
Avoid having any unnecessary visitors.
For any additional questions about their care, contact their healthcare provider or state or local health department.
For more information on COVID-19 and how best to improve your mental wellbeing during these uncertain times visit the Centers for Disease Control website.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together!
During this unprecedented time caused by the global pandemic of coronavirus, this is a reminder to our customers that we are specialists in cleaning services, and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards.
Specialized Training
We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform on a daily basis.
The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets and tables. Other spaces mentioned in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces include:
Kitchen/Food Areas
Bathrooms
Schools/Classrooms
Offices
Retail Spaces
Water Fountains
Shelving/Racks
Sales Counters
Carpets and Rugs
Stair Handrails
Elevator Cars
Playground Equipment
Fitness Equipment
Specialized Products
The CDC recommends usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar pathogens to the coronavirus. Multiple products in the SERVPRO product line carry the EPA-approved emerging pathogens claims. While there is currently no product tested against this particular strain of the coronavirus, we are following all guidelines as provided by the CDC and local authorities.
For more information on COVID-19 and how best to improve your mental wellbeing during these uncertain times visit the Centers for Disease Control website.
Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning
If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of Framingham, (508) 370-4400.
When the valve on your water heater fails or the unit springs a leak, you could literally have gallons of water flooding that level of your home in minutes. If the leaking water heater is not in the basement you run the further risk of your home sustaining water damage in the walls and ceilings below that from seepage. Here are some ways to prevent or mitigate water damage from a failed water heater in Hopkinton, MA.
1. Perform Regular Maintenance
In the event you are hearing unusual noises from your water heater, such as popping or thumping, it could be caused by mineral buildup on the inside of the tank or on the element. Cleaning out your water heater to remove mineral sediment is a good idea. Be sure to follow your unit’s manufacturer’s instructions for maintenance regularly to help prevent such a disaster from occurring.
2. Make Needed Repairs
If cleaning out and other maintenance measures don’t stop the problem, and especially if a leaking water heater accompanies the noises, your best bet would be to call a plumbing service to come take a look and a listen in case action is needed. Repairs can often stave off problems.
3. Quick Cleanup
When all preventive measures fail and a broken water heater floods your home, it is imperative to stop the leak as quickly as possible by shutting off the water supply. The next most crucial step is removing the water and mitigating the damage water can cause to your home.
The mess and damage can feel overwhelming. Call the water damage repair specialists at SERVPRO Framingham to come as soon as possible and help with the cleanup process. We will use powerful extraction equipment to remove as much water as possible and then assess the damage and help with the salvage and repair process. A broken or heavily leaking water heater can be intimidating but with help, you will see your way through.
The unprecedented times we find ourselves in are ever evolving. As the experts become more knowledgeable about the coronavirus and how it spreads their guidelines for all of us to remain safe evolves too. The latest update occurred over the weekend, and incase you missed it, here it is.
The CDC continues to study the spread and effects of the novel coronavirus across the United States. We now know from recent studies that a significant portion of individuals with coronavirus lack symptoms (“asymptomatic”) and that even those who eventually develop symptoms (“pre-symptomatic”) can transmit the virus to others before showing symptoms. This means that the virus can spread between people interacting in close proximity—for example, speaking, coughing, or sneezing—even if those people are not exhibiting symptoms. In light of this new evidence, CDC recommends wearing cloth face coverings in public settings where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain (e.g., grocery stores and pharmacies) especially in areas of significant community-based transmission.
For more information on COVID-19 and how best to improve your mental wellbeing during these uncertain times visit the Centers for Disease Control website.
For an instructional DIY video on how to make your own cloth mask click here.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together!
The stress caused by these difficult times can be difficult, especially for children. Children and teens react, in part, on what they see from the adults around them. When parents and caregivers deal with the COVID-19 calmly and confidently, they can provide the best support for their children. Parents can be more reassuring to others around them, especially children, if they are better prepared.
Not all children and teens respond to stress in the same way. Some common changes to watch for include
Excessive crying or irritation in younger children
Returning to behaviors they have outgrown (for example, toileting accidents or bedwetting)
Excessive worry or sadness
Unhealthy eating or sleeping habits
Irritability and “acting out” behaviors in teens
Poor school performance or avoiding school
Difficulty with attention and concentration
Avoidance of activities enjoyed in the past
Unexplained headaches or body pain
Use of alcohol, tobacco, or other drugs
There are many things you can do to support your child
Take time to talk with your child or teen about the COVID-19 outbreak. Answer questions and share facts about COVID-19 in a way that your child or teen can understand.
Reassure your child or teen that they are safe. Let them know it is ok if they feel upset. Share with them how you deal with your own stress so that they can learn how to cope from you.
Limit your family’s exposure to news coverage of the event, including social media. Children may misinterpret what they hear and can be frightened about something they do not understand.
Try to keep up with regular routines. If schools are closed, create a schedule for learning activities and relaxing or fun activities.
Be a role model. Take breaks, get plenty of sleep, exercise, and eat well. Connect with your friends and family members.
For more information on COVID-19 and how best to improve your mental wellbeing during these uncertain times visit the Centers for Disease Control website.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together!
It is hard not to be overwhelmed with the abundance of information there is regarding the unfathomable reality we are all facing. We have all done our best to educate ourselves with the causes and symptoms of the coronavirus. Unfortunately, the vast majority of information focuses on the impacts to our physical health and safety and how to slow the spread of the virus.
While the oceans of information and changes we are making are necessary they may be having a negative impact to our collective mental well being. Fear and anxiety about a disease can be overwhelming and cause strong emotions in both adults and children. Coping with stress will make you, the people you care about, and your community stronger.
Everyone reacts differently to stressful situations.
How you respond to the outbreak can depend on your background, the things that make you different from other people, and the community you live in. People who may respond more strongly to the stress of a crisis include
Older people and people with chronic diseases who are at higher risk for COVID-19
Children and teens
People who are helping with the response to COVID-19, like doctors and other health care providers, or first responders
People who have mental health conditions including problems with substance use
Stress during an infectious disease outbreak can include:
Fear and worry about your own health and the health of your loved ones
Taking care of yourself, your friends, and your family can help you cope with stress. Helping others cope with their stress can also make your community stronger.
Things you can do to support yourself
Take breaks from watching, reading, or listening to news stories, including social media. Hearing about the pandemic repeatedly can be upsetting.
Make time to unwind. Try to do some other activities you enjoy.
Connect with others. Talk with people you trust about your concerns and how you are feeling.
For more information on COVID-19 and how best to improve your mental wellbeing during these uncertain times visit the Centers for Disease Control website.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together!
Buoy Health, a Boston-based startup and MassChallenge HealthTech 2019 alum, has developed an AI health assistant application that helps consumers get real-time information about symptoms and triages them to the appropriate care.
"In light of the coronavirus outbreak, the startup [updated] its AI algorithm to properly screen for coronavirus. Learn more about the work they are doing to combat the coronavirus."
Buoy has entered a partnership with the state of Massachusetts to promote Telehealth services and provide its residents with additional tools to assess their risks for COVID-19. The Baker Administration announced the launch of Buoy Health’s new online resource for residents to check their symptoms and connect with the appropriate health-care resource.
It is important to note that the tool does not replace emergency medical care. However, the application may be used as a support for residents during the COVID-19 outbreak to connect them. Buoy Health’s online 24/7 tool is free for Massachusetts residents and uses current COVID-19 guidance from the CDC and Massachusetts Department of Public Health. Visit Buoy.com/mass to learn more and use the tool.
For more information on COVID-19 and how best to protect yourself and others around you visit the Centers for Disease Control website.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together!
Owners of residential property in Ashland, MA know it's not uncommon to find water in your basement. These are often minor issues that you can take care of quickly and that don't cause much damage. However, if extensive flooding occurs, you need to be on your toes and clean it up promptly. If you've never experienced a major flood in your home, it's helpful to understand how one can occur and how you can remove the water and clean up.
Typical Causes
It's important to identify how a flood starts so you can stop the incoming water and minimize the damage. A knowledge of come culprits of flooding can also help you prevent these issues from affecting your home. Pay attention to these issues:
Broken or leaky pipes
Main water line break
Sewer backup
Poor drainage on your property
Your Actions
Once you discover a basement flood, you should immediately find the cause and stop it if possible. Next, make sure family members and pets are out of harm's way and remove materials from and around the water. Turn off the power to your home and call a professional flood cleanup company. If you have a pump or a wet vac, start extracting the water and get it out of your home. You should then file a claim with your homeowner's insurance.
What the Pros Will Do
In addition to helping with pipe repair and fixing what caused the water damage, professional crews can get your home back to normal. Technicians will assess the damage and will remove all remaining water from the premises. To discourage the growth of mold and other bacteria, crews will thoroughly dry your home with high-powered fans. They will also use strong chemicals to disinfect all surfaces. The team will tear out ruined materials and will replace them as necessary.
Flooding is never a pleasant ordeal to handle. Luckily, you can rely on the experience of the experts at SERVPRO of Framingham - (508) 370-4400.
Given the current situation regarding the coronavirus, the Federal and Local Government’s recommendations against large gatherings and the CDC advocating the practice of social distancing to us all, most of us find ourselves confined to our homes. We at SERVPRO of Framingham understand practicing social distancing from friends and loved ones, while paramount during these uncertain times, is not necessarily easy. We have compiled a list of free applications that everyone can use to socialize while distancing.
FaceTime
FaceTime is Apple's proprietary video calling app. If you have an iPhone, iPad or Mac, it operates seamlessly, letting you start a video chat with any of your contacts. In 2018 Apple also added a Group FaceTime option, allowing you to chat with up to 32 people at once.
What'sApp
What'sApp is owned by Facebook and works on both Android and iOS devices. You can use it to send messages, or make video or audio calls. Its global popularity makes it a great option for keeping in touch with family and friends worldwide.
Skype
Skype is owned by Microsoft and is available for iOS, Android, Windows and Mac. It offers video and audio calling, supporting up to 50 people on the same audio call (the number of video callers depends on what device you're using).
Zoom
Zoom offers video and audio conferencing, chat and webinar features across mobile devices, desktops, phones and room systems. It offers a free basic tier that allows you to host up to 100 participants and unlimited one-to-one meetings. Parents of school age children may already have downloaded this app as Zoom appears to be the top choice for most school districts to host online classrooms.
For more information on COVID-19 and how best to protect yourself and others around you visit the Centers for Disease Control website.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together!
These continue to be difficult times we find ourselves in. The impacts to our clients and communities are unprecedented! The best course of action for us all to take is to be as informed as we can at this time. We at SERVPRO of Framingham plan on doing our part to keep our clients and communities informed.
The CDC recommends the following steps to take to protect others;
Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze or use the inside of your elbow.
Throw used tissues in the trash.
Immediately wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not readily available, clean your hands with a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
If you are sick: You should wear a facemask when you are around other people (e.g., sharing a room or vehicle) and before you enter a healthcare provider’s office. If you are not able to wear a facemask (for example, because it causes trouble breathing), then you should do your best to cover your coughs and sneezes, and people who are caring for you should wear a facemask if they enter your room. Learn what to do if you are sick.
If you are NOT sick: You do not need to wear a facemask unless you are caring for someone who is sick (and they are not able to wear a facemask). Facemasks may be in short supply and they should be saved for caregivers.
Clean AND disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily. This includes tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets, and sinks.
For more information on COVID-19 and how best to protect yourself and others around you visit the Centers for Disease Control website.
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together!
No matter the source, water in your Sudbury, MA, home can cause quite a bit of costly damage. Because of this, it is important to start filing your insurance claim as quickly as possible. This will allow you to finish the process and receive the financial assistance you need sooner. Use the following steps to get through the situation smoothly.
1. Contact Your Insurance Agent
The first thing that you should do is to call your insurance company so that they can begin filing your claim right away. In some cases, waiting too long to contact the company can affect your insurance claim or cause it to be denied, so don’t hesitate to do this.
2. Document the Damage
While an insurance adjuster will come to look at your home, you don’t need to wait for them to arrive. Begin taking pictures of damaged areas of the building as well as affected belongings. You may want to make a list as well. The adjuster can use these as proof of damage.
3. Start Cleanup and Mitigation
Even if it is from a clean source like a pipe burst, the longer water sits in your home, the more damage it can cause. In order to reduce the cost and time of repairs, you can start removing water from the building so that it can begin to dry. Set aside damaged items as well.
4. Review Your Policy
Because all policies are not exactly the same, it is important to know what is covered in yours. Some causes of damage, such as a flood, may not be included. Look over the details so that you know what to expect and what is expected of you during the claims process.
5. Prepare Necessary Forms
Once the insurance company has sent you the required forms, you should fill them out as soon as possible. This way, they will have everything they need to finish filing your claim. Filing your insurance claim quickly can help you cover the costs.
If your home has been damaged the experts at SERVPRO of Framingham can make it "Like it never even happened." Call us today, 508-370-4400!
These are difficult times we find ourselves in. The impacts to our clients and communities are unprecedented! The best course of action for us all to take is to be as informed as we can at this time. We at SERVPRO of Framingham plan on doing our part to keep our clients and communities informed.
According to the CDC, at this time, "The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus." The CDC recommends the following steps to take to protect yourself;
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub them together until they feel dry.
Avoid touchingyour eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
We at SERVPRO of Framingham understand the severity of our current situation and the impact it has had to our lives. Our daily reality has been turned upside down and sideways. Parents and school administrations have united to ensure that our children remain safe and continue to learn outside of the classroom. The need for social distancing has forced communities, governments and businesses to make difficult, but necessary decisions. For businesses those decisions range from temporarily closing their doors to working virtually. However, there are essential businesses, like supermarkets, pharmacies, gas stations, where temporarily closing and working virtually are not options. It is paramount that employers in such businesses take the necessary steps to ensure both customer and employee safety. To help create safe environments OSHA has created guidelines for preparing workplaces for COVID-19. Along with information on COVID-19 itself and how an outbreak could affect the workplace OSHA has classified the levels of risk inherent to various jobs and the steps to take to protect your constituents. Click, here, to download a copy.
For more information on COVID-19 and how best to protect yourself and others around you visit the Centers for Disease Control website.
If your residential or commercial property needs preventative deep cleaning services, call the experts at SERVPRO of Framingham today – (508) 370 - 4400
All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together!
All of us here at SERVPRO of Foxborough want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! The easiest step we can all take at home and in the workplace is to properly sanitize the area. Did you know that while everything can be cleaned, the same does not hold true for disinfecting?
Cleaning/Sanitizing/Disinfecting
It is important to understand the different levels of cleaning that may or may not be possible for each surface. All surfaces can be cleaned, many surfaces can be sanitized, and some surfaces can be disinfected.
The three main levels of microbe control are:
General surface cleaning – physically removes visible dirt, organic matter, viruses, fungi, and bacteria. General surface cleaning is accomplished with water, detergent, and physical scrubbing of the surface. The guiding principle is to remove microbes if possible, rather than kill them (with a sanitizer or disinfectant). In addition, thoroughly cleaning a surface can reduce the need to disinfect because without the nutrients and moisture needed to survive and multiply, most microbes cannot live on a clean and dry surface for very long.
Sanitizing – reduces but does not necessarily eliminate all the bacteria on a treated surface. Sanitizers do not have claims for viruses or fungi. To be a registered sanitizer, the test results for a product must show a reduction of at least a. 99.9% in the number of each type of bacteria tested on non-food-contact surfaces. Examples of non-food-contact sanitizers include carpet sanitizers, air sanitizers, laundry additives, and in-tank toilet bowl sanitizers.
Disinfecting – works by using chemicals to kill germs on surfaces. This process does not necessarily clean dirty surfaces or remove germs.v Disinfecting destroys or irreversibly inactivates infectious or other undesirable microbes, but not necessarily the spores of bacteria and fungi. The number of microbes killed during a disinfecting process will vary, depending on the specific chemical and how it is used.
For more information on COVID-19 and how best to protect yourself and others around you visit the Centers for Disease Control website.
Please be safe and vigilant in your cleaning efforts. Should you have any doubts regarding the safety of your residential or commercial property needs expert preventative deep cleaning services, call the experts at SERVPRO of Newton / Wellesley today – (617) 332 - 9000
As an insurance adjuster in Sudbury, MA, you know how important it is to provide great services for your customers at a low cost. When a water or fire disaster affects one of your clients, you need to use a cleanup company you can trust. That way, you can focus on adjusting the insurance claim to best suit everyone's needs. SERVPRO of Framingham makes the cleanup process go as smoothly as possible. There are many reasons to pick us over our competition.
Electronic Files
Before you can calculate the cost of the claim, you need certain information about the loss. We provide those details in an electronic file. Within hours, we will provide documentation that includes:
The date of loss
The estimated cost of services
Photos of the damage
Scanned paperwork and documents
Adjusters will also receive online access to new, pending and completed jobs. You can also ask for an itemized inventory of the harmed assets, as well.
Cost-Effective Services
After a disaster, your clients will likely be stressed about the rebuild. You can put them at ease by ensuring our restoration services are cost-effective when compared to our competition. A delayed response to the emergency could cause the damage to worsen and, in turn, could make the cleanup more expensive. Thankfully, this business will respond to the scene right away. This will let you start the claims process promptly, as well. Our restoration experts will then pretest every damaged item to see what is salvageable. They understand that repairing assets is cheaper than replacing them.
SERVPRO of Framingham is one of the leaders in the restoration industry. An insurance adjuster who uses this business will thus give its clients a competitive advantage.
Americans are hit with 350,000 house fires each year, which can uproot your family, destroy your home and personal items—and even be fatal! Here are some ways you can reduce the risk of fire in your Sudbury, MA home.
The Kitchen
Kitchens are filled with appliances that generate heat to cook food, so take basic precautions when using them—and keep a charged fire extinguisher nearby.
Oven and Stove Top
Clean your oven and cooktop regularly, because baked-on grease and food residue easily become fuel for a fire.
Never leave food cooking on a stovetop unattended.
Keep fabric such as towels, dishcloths and clothing away from heat and open flames.
Dishwasher
If you have an older dishwasher, have it inspected because older heating elements can overheat and cause a fire.
Microwave
Don’t microwave flammable materials, such as aluminum foil, Styrofoam or some plastic containers (check the markings on the bottom of the container).
Toaster or Toaster Oven
Consider replacing your older toaster, which can have faulty heating elements that may not turn off.
Don’t leave your toaster running unattended.
Clean the accumulated crumbs out of your toaster regularly.
The Bedroom
Filled with cozy bedding, mattresses, curtains and many other items, the bedroom is stocked with flammable objects. Here are a few ways to reduce your risk of a fire starting here—and increase your chances of escaping quickly if one does start.
Mattress
If your mattress was manufactured before 2007, it may not be flame retardant. Consider purchasing a new one.
Smoke Alarm
Every bedroom should have a smoke alarm installed and regularly tested.
Escape Plan
Create and practice a fire escape plan. Include two ways to leave each room (typically a door and a window).
The Living/Family Room
Like bedrooms, living or family rooms typically house lots of flammable items, such as upholstered furniture, drapes and curtains, and electronics.
Fireplace
Have your fireplace and chimney cleaned, inspected and maintained at least once a year. If you detect a quarter-inch buildup of creosote or soot, schedule a cleaning now.
Clean the fireplace yourself regularly throughout the year, based on how often you use it.
Always place a metal or glass screen in front of a burning fire to prevent sparks from flying out.
Keep rugs and other fabrics away from the fireplace.
After the fire is extinguished, store the ashes in a metal container with a lid, bring the container outside and place it at least three feet away from your home or garage.
Candles
Keep candles away from flammable objects.
Never leave a burning candle unattended, and always put the candle out completely when you are done burning it.
If you’ve suffered fire damage to your home or business, call SERVPRO of Framingham today 508-370-4400. We will make it, "Like it never even happened."
Home fires caused by heating equipment make up about 15% of all reported home fires every year. And it’s no surprise that half of all these home heating fires occur in the prime heating months of December, January and February.
It’s hard to imagine your Sudbury, MA house catching on fire, imperiling your family’s lives and destroying your property, but it can happen if you aren’t careful with how you heat your home.
Stay safe this winter by being extra cautious when heating your home. These simple safety tips can help prevent heating fires while you and your family keep warm.
General Heating Safety
Keep flammable items at least 3 feet from all heat sources, including fireplaces, space heaters, wood stoves, radiators and candles.
Have your furnaces and chimneys inspected, cleaned and maintained every year.
Don’t use your oven as a heating source.
Space Heater Safety
Space heaters are the most common source of home heating fires, so take extra caution when you use these convenient heaters.
Buy a space heater that shuts off automatically in case it overheats or tips over.
Plug the heater directly into a wall outlet, not an extension cord or power strip.
Keep a 3-foot clear area around the space heater.
Keep children and pets away from the heater.
Turn the heater off before going to sleep or leaving the room.
Always turn the heater off when you leave your home.
Fireplace Safety
Place a metal screen or glass partition in front of your fireplace to prevent sparks from flying into the room.
Put the fire out before you go to sleep or leave your home.
After cleanup, store the ashes in a metal container with a lid. Bring them outside and place them at least three feet away from your home or garage.
Place your stove on a noncombustible, fire-resistant base.
Burn dry wood, not paper.
Never use flammable fluids to start the fire.
Put the fire out before you go to sleep or leave your home.
Disaster can strike at anytime. If your Sudbury, MA home or business suffers fire damage call the experts at SERVPRO of Framingham, 508-370-4400. We will make it, "Like it never even happened."
Clothes dryers account for thousands of home fires each year, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). When lint builds up in a dryer or its exhaust duct, it can block the flow of air and cause excessive heat buildup—resulting in a fire.
Prevent a potentially deadly fire disaster in your Sudbury, MA home by following this advice:
Clean and inspect the lint screen/filter before or after each load of laundry
If your clothing is still damp at the end of a typical drying cycle or you notice drying times are longer than normal, the lint screen or the exhaust duct may be blocked.
Clean the dryer vent and exhaust duct periodically
Check the outside dryer vent while the dryer is running to make sure exhaust air is escaping. If not, the vent or exhaust duct may be blocked, and you may need to disconnect the duct to clear the blockage (reconnect the ducting before using the dryer again).
Keep the area around the dryer clean and free of clutter
Maintain a 36-inch clear space around the dryer. Clean behind the dryer, and keep the laundry area neat and clutter-free, with no combustible objects near the dryer.
Replace plastic or foil ducts
Exhaust ducts should be installed at least 6 inches from combustible materials. Use UL-listed rigid or corrugated metal duct or spiral-wound aluminum flex hose.
Properly vent gas-powered dryers
This will prevent a buildup of deadly carbon monoxide. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)recommends having the gas line and connection inspected annually by a professional.
Cover your outside wall damper
Cover your damper to keep out rain, snow, dirt and to deter birds and small animals from nesting in your vent, but don’t use wire screen or cloth, which can collect lint and clog up the vent.
If you’ve suffered fire damage to your home or business, call SERVPRO of Framingham at 508-370-4400. We will make it, "Like it never even happened."
Frozen pipes are a leading source ofFramingham, MA commercial property damage during severe winter weather. If a pipe freezes and then bursts in your office, restaurant, warehouse or other commercial building, your business can suffer water damage costing tens of thousands of dollars—which can put you out of operation for days or weeks. According to Disaster Safetybusiness owners can reduce your risk of winter water damage by taking these eight steps.
1. Keep the Cold Out
Seal windows, doors and other openings on exterior walls with caulk or insulation to prevent cold air from penetrating the wall cavity.
Seal all wall cracks and penetrations including domestic and fire protection lines, electrical conduit and other utility service lines.
Insulate and seal attic penetrations, such as partition walls, vents, plumbing stacks, and electric and mechanical chases.
Insulate recessed light fixtures in the ceiling to reduce heat entering the attic. Look for visible light inside the attic, and if present, insulate or seal. (If the space above a suspended ceiling is conditioned, there is no need for added insulation or sealing.)
2. Keep Your Pipes Warm
Insulate the pipes most vulnerable to freezing by using foam pipe insulation that wraps around them.
3. Install an Automatic Excess Flow Switch
Install an automatic excess flow switch on the main incoming domestic water line to monitor and provide early detection of a broken pipe or valve. Use wireless sensors near water sources.
4. Monitor Your Sprinkler Systems
Monitor your building’s sprinkler systems using a central station to provide early detection of a pipe failure. Heat your sprinkler control rooms.
5. Provide Backup Power
Install a reliable backup power source, such as a stand-by generator, to ensure continuous power and heat to your building. When a winter storm or cold spell is on the way, stock up on fuel for the generator.
6. Install a Temperature Monitoring System
Install a monitoring system that will notify you if the building’s temperature drops below a certain temperature. Set your thermostat to 55 degrees F or above.
7. Have a Disaster Recovery Expert on Call
Before a water disaster happens is the best time to research local companies, like SERVPRO of Glastonbury/Wethersfield, who will respond immediately and handle your building’s damage remediation from start to finish—getting you back to work as soon as possible.
8. Keep Water Running During a Deep Freeze
Set your faucets to drip during extreme cold weather. This will help prevent freezing of the water inside pipes, and if freezing does occur, will relieve pressure in the pipes between the ice blockage and the faucet.
If your business suffers a water disaster from a frozen pipe that bursts, call SERVPRO of Framingham today at 508-370-4400
You’ve just returned from a relaxing vacation. What could be worse than opening your door and finding your Holliston, MA home is flooded?
Unfortunately, this happens all too often: the second most common homeowner insurance claim is for water damage. Whether it’s from aruptured washing machine hose, leaky supply line or burst pipe, the consequences can be devastating. And, if water has been present for more than 48 hours, you may also have mold damage.
To help avoid a water disaster while you’re away:
Test your sump pump and check for leaky pipes
Check and replace old or damaged supply lines to your washing machine, dishwasher, water heater and refrigerator
Turn off the water supply to your washing machine
Clean your gutters and drain pipes
When you have suffered a water or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Framingham today at 508-370-4400
As a trusted leader in the restoration industry, SERVPRO of Framingham is your one-stop, remediation-to-rebuild shop that provides 24-hour commercial and residential services every day, even holidays. As a locally owned and operated business, we're dedicated to being faster to any size disaster, with the training, equipment, and expertise to handle your restoration and cleaning needs.
SERVPRO of Framingham staff is always attentive and friendly. During times that are often stressful, we take extra care to handle your situation with the attention and respect that you deserve. Our goal is to make our clients as comfortable as possible when the unexpected happens.
You can't always predict the unpredictable but you can trustSERVPRO of Framingham to make it right. With our experience, knowledge and ability to remediate any size disaster and make you whole again!
When damage strikes yourSudbury, MA place of business or home you need trusted remediation-to-rebuild experts. Witnessing your home and precious belongings being consumed by water or fire can be traumatizing. The only reassurance you can have after such a disastrous loss is obtained from having clear support and guidance in rescuing as much property as possible and rebuilding the rest.
When left untreated, water inside a building can be a long-term most catastrophic material. Structures and other personal properties can deteriorate rapidly as a result of too much standing water or moisture.
We offer a wide variety of commercial and residential and services to our clients. Over the years, our family of franchises has grown to become FOUR franchises strong! This is the result of the exemplary services that we provide. We have a team of certified and fully trained professionals who are ready to respond 24 hours a day, every day of the year, even holidays to all emergencies.
Some of the services that we provide are as follows,
• Fire damage restoration
• Restoration of water damage
• Restoration of storm destruction
• Mold damage restoration and others.
As a leading restoration and rebuild firm, we are capable of handling it all; from the onset of disaster to applying the last coat of pant.
Signs Your Sudbury Floor Needs Professional Help for Water Damage
When a water damage event happens in your commercial or residential property, the first thought is to clean it up yourself. Most people have mops, rags, and some have wet/dry vacuums to assist in wiping up the water.
The downside to this action is that water migrates quickly and can wind up far away from the origination point, setting up your Sudbury, MA home for water damage. One example might be when a pipe breaks in an upper floor in a bathroom, gravity pulls the water downward, and it runs under the tile floor, between the floor joists and exists into the living room below, all over a couch and carpeted floor. If any moisture gets left behind in these areas, it can trigger issues such as mold or musty odors.
Why SERVPRO?
Our technicians use advanced detection equipment to thoroughly scope the property to determine the migration path of the water. This equipment ensures that the property has the water extracted and dried without the potential for issues after-the-fact. They use powerful extraction equipment and have specialized drying equipment to handle flooring of different types including hardwood floor, tile, and cement.
Signs Water Remains On-Site
Giveaways that water damage is still within the property include any of the following:
Warped or buckled sheetrock
Musty odors
Mold
Delaminated tiles
Effervescent on cement or brick
Bubbles in the paint on walls
Help With Rebuilding
Water ruins floors and sheetrock rapidly, and they often require removal as part of the restoration process. SERVPRO of Framingham is your one-stop, rebuild-to-remediation shop! When the remediation is complete we offer our clients the option seamlessly to our ReBuild team. This significantly reduces duration and cost of the total project!
Alert for the Signs of Mold
If conditions are right, mold spores can germinate and begin to spread as fast in as little as 48 hours after a water loss in the home. Our technicians are experts in the identification and remediation of mold. They know the warning signs for colony establishment and how to safely remediate existing mold to avoid spreading spores throughout the home.
We atSERVPRO of Framingham are available 24 hours a day, every day of the year, even holidays, to make any size water damage event, "Like it never even happened."
The Importance Of Having Everything Under One Roof
Why Choose a Full-Service Restoration Partner in Sudbury
With hundreds of vendors vying for your business after a water, fire, storm, or mold event in your Sudbury, MA commercial property or residence you might believe it necessary to act as a general contractor. Arranging for different companies to handle individual tasks and coordinating their efforts is a waste of time and money. Your focus is better aimed at regaining yours and your family’s emotional equilibrium. Let our full-service restoration team manage the details.
Once you engage our services, we take on all the tasks needed to mitigate and repair fire, water, and mold damage. In doing so we permit no downtime, working ceaselessly to make it right. The multiple certifications in specialties like Water Damage Restoration Technician (WRT) and Applied Structural Drying (ASD) held by our crew members allows us to move from task to task without delay. We hold both general contractor and residential contractor licenses giving us the flexibility to take on rebuilding and restoring the structural components destroyed by any loss!
SERVPRO of Framingham is by your side every step of the way after a crisis damages your Sudbury property. Call (508) 370-4400 for help with any emergency and will make it "Like it never even happened."
Shower mold can be a frustrating problem. Mold grows in wet conditions, so it thrives in consistently moist areas such as bathrooms. Thankfully, you do not have to live with a moldy shower. If the contamination is limited to a small area, you can attempt mold cleanup yourself. Below are some tips for removing black mold from your shower.
Stay Safe
Safety should be your top priority when you attempt to get rid of mold in your Southborough, MA home. Be sure to wear rubber gloves and old clothes. You should also open a window or use a fan to keep the bathroom ventilated. When you are finished with the black mold cleanup, take off your gloves and clothes immediately so they don’t spread spores throughout your home. You can then clean the clothes in the washing machine using hot water.
Create a Cleaning Solution
You next need to decide what solution to use to clean the shower mold. White vinegar is an effective and non-toxic choice. If you want a more natural cleaner, combine a gallon of water with a cup of Borax. Borax is a white powder you can usually find in the laundry aisle of your supermarket. Bleach can be dangerous and should only be used as a last resort.
Use the Solution
Whichever cleaning solution you choose should be poured into a spray bottle. You can then spray the entire affected area with the liquid. The cleaner should saturate the mold but not create any puddles. Then wipe away the mold and the cleaner using a cloth. If the mold remains stuck, try using a scrubbing brush. Shower mold stuck in caulking or grout should be scrubbed away with an old toothbrush.
By following the above suggestions, you can limit the mold damage in your home. If the problem persists, consider contacting your local mold remediation and cleanup experts here at SERVPRO of Framingham. We will make it, "Like it never even happened."
The Officer Phil Program teaches elementary children about stranger danger, the negative effects of bullying, fire safety, internet safety and respect for authority figures. The program also encourage positive behavior like honesty, friendship, being a buddy not a bully, civic responsibility and knowing what to do in an emergency just to name a few.
Last year SERVPRO of Framingham partnered with the Hopkinton Police Department to offer this program to the local schools. We appreciated the opportunity to help guide the future leaders of our community and look forward to continuing this relationship!
Within a span of ten short years, Licensed General Contractor and entrepreneur David Kurzontkowski has worked tirelessly in growing his business and striving to provide the best service in the remediation and remodeling industry. David began his career with SERVPRO with the purchase of his first franchise, SERVPRO of Framingham in 2009. As we approach the 10th anniversary, Dave has officially purchased his 4th franchise, SERVPRO of Foxboro. This new addition covers the Franklin/Walpole area in addition to existing territories ranging from Sudbury to Chestnut Hill to Dedham and now as far south as Plainville, MA. This most recent acquisition has positioned ”Team Kur” as the leader in covering the largest geographical SERVPRO territory in Eastern Massachusetts.
Dave attributes much of his company’s success first to his co-owner and wife, Jill Kurzontkowski for her continual guidance and support. In addition he credits his success to the drive, initiative and integrity of his entire team. “They work hard, they are meticulous, they care deeply about the position their clients are in and they also know the importance of camaraderie and working together on resolving all remediation and renovation issues. And for that, I am proud of them."
The peak of Atlantic hurricane season is here which is why it's important to take some time to reflect on disaster preparedness. As unlikely as it may seem, a disaster can strike at any moment. Whether it's a fire, tornado, hurricane, flood, or blizzard, it's critical to be prepared and have a plan in place.
Unfortunately, pets are sometimes unintentionally left out of their owners' disaster preparedness plans which makes it difficult to know what to do with them during an emergency.
Luckily, you can plan ahead for your pets using these tips:
Listen to your veterinarian
Make sure your pet wears a collar with up to date information on it, get them microchipped, and have them vaccinated. These recommendations will come in handy during a disaster and help you avoid any potential pitfalls, such as being unable to get into a shelter with an unvaccinated pet or losing them during an evacuation. If possible, take your pet's medical records with you and attach their rabies tag to their collar.
Find out which shelters allow pets
Do some research into where you can safely evacuate with your pet during a state of emergency before a disaster occurs. Your local police department can typically give you this information. If not, they'll likely be able to point you in the direction of someone who can. Though unfortunate, it is not true that hotels must accept pets during evacuations, so please keep that in mind while planning ahead.
Prepare a pet disaster kit
In a suitcase or other easily movable storage container, pack food and water bowls, a manual can opener, two weeks' worth of canned food and bottled water per pet, plastic poop bags (for dogs), litter and a small litter box (for cats), and two weeks' worth of any medications your pet may need. You should also pack cleaning items, sturdy leashes and harnesses, toys, and a copy of your pet's medical records. For small animals and cats, have a carrier ready. Use this checklist to prepare.
Create handouts
Create an identification handout and a boarding instruction handout. Have both ready to go at a moment's notice. They should contain important information, such as your pet's name, age, sex, markings, microchip number, allergies, and vaccination status.
If you get separated from your pet, make sure you're safe before you begin your search. If you're in a shelter that houses pets, inform a caretaker and provide them with the identification handout. Once you've been given the OK to leave the shelter and return home, contact animal control and call the microchip company to make sure all information about you and your pet is current.
According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), July is the peak month for grilling fires, followed by June, May, and August. Annually, U.S. fire departments respond to an average of 10,200 home fires each year involving grills, hibachis, or barbeques. With the summer season fast approaching, David Kurzontkowski of SERVPRO® of Framingham, a fire and water damage cleanup specialist in the Framingham area, urges homeowners to check the readiness of their outdoor cooking equipment – like grills and propane tanks – to help ensure summer cooking fires don’t become house fires.
“The NFPA reports that seven out of every 10 adults in the U.S. has a grill or a smoker,” said Kurzontkowski. “That statistic really highlights the risk that homeowners face of experiencing a home fire caused by grilling and other open flame cooking. It’s important to take some basic safety steps to help ensure you’ll spend your summer enjoying friends and family and not dealing with the aftermath of a grill-related house fire.”
Propane Grills
Check for leaks in the gas tank hose before using your grill.
Open gas grill top before lighting the grill.
If the flame goes out, turn the grill and gas off and wait at least five minutes before re-lighting it.
Charcoal Grills
Use only charcoal starter fluid or opt for a charcoal chimney or electric starter.
Never add charcoal starter fluid, or any flammable fluid, to the fire.
Dispose of coals in a metal container after the coals have cooled completely.
The damage on Cape Cod was the culmination of two tornado touchdowns in Yarmouth and Harwich along with plenty of straight line wind damage, the NWS reported.
Cape Cod has only experienced 4 reported twister's within the last 70 years, according to the NWS.
Powerful winds almost entirely lifted the roof of a Cape Sands Inn in Yarmouth with fear of it being blown away. The rains accompanying the tornado left many rooms flooded and the owner said one-third of the hotel is now unusable heading into peak tourist season
While Mother Nature is unpredictable, SERPVRO of Framingham is here to stay to help you find your way.
After the 4th of July celebrations has ended, Mother Nature decided to display 'works' of her own. Less than 48 hours later, heavy thunderstorms rolled through Massachusetts, causing flooding, damage, and power outages.
The thunderstorms shook the region that evening and lighting was the cause of a house fire in Marlborough, striking their basement.
Fortunately the homeowners were awake and immediately aware of what happened and were able get help and get to safety.
There was also heavy rainfall and flooding in the Boston area, according to the National Weather Service (NWS). and finally, the thunderstorms subsided at around 9:45 p.m.
Mother Nature is unpredictable, and we never know when an emergency situation will arise or in this case, strike. But SERVPRO of Framingham is there for you 24 hours/7 days a week. No job is too big or too small all that matters is we quickly get the job done.
As we are entering Hurricane season, here are a few things Commercial Property owners should keep in mind. Even if your property is not located in a flood zone, it could still be vulnerable to water damage.
Always opt for flood insurance. Whether your business or property is large or small, on the coast or inland, water will always find a way! According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency, more that 20% of flood claims occur outside the high-risk flood zones.
Understand the policy and your risks! It is so important to know exactly what you’re covered for and what will be deemed as out of pocket. Read carefully through the policy now and not during a time of crisis.
Take action. The longer you wait, the more likely there will be damage. Don’t wait for insurance adjusters to arrive. Call SERVPRO of Framingham 7 days a week, 24 hours a day. We’ll take the proper and immediate action to restore your property “Like it never even happened.”
Sump pumps give us the protection in keeping our basements from flooding. However during a heavy storm your sump pump will be working overtime putting it at a greater risk of failing, especially if not monitored properly.
There are many reasons your sump pump might breakdown. Make sure you have a battery backup, if the power goes out during a storm, so will your pump. Is the sump pump the correct size for the basement water it will need to take on? Is it properly installed? Make sure vents are not clogged by debris and that the float switch is situated properly so it will effectively turn on the system.
What if the sump pump fails?
When the sump pump fails, you need to call SERVPRO of Framingham! In the meantime, grab a dormant pump or better yet a wet/dry vacuum, as there is going to be water coming into the basement. If the amount of water is manageable, you can mop it up, deposit it to a bucket, and dump at least 20 feet away from the house. The faster you remove the excess water, the better. Remember the he longer water stands in your basement, the more damage it’s going to cause, providing the perfect environment for mold and mildew to stain walls, and damage furnishings, creating a horrible, musty odor.
What if the power goes out? First call SERVPRO of Framingham! While we are expeditiously on our way, you can remove the water using a hand pump instead. Put the hand pump into the sump pump hole, then attach a garden hose to the threaded discharge end of the hand pump. Run the hose outside the nearest window and drain the water outside. If your hose doesn’t reach 20 feet, you’ll need to let it drain into buckets and then carry it out.
Drying out!
Call SERVPRO of Framingham! 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We use specialized equipment to remove the remaining water that is harder to access. Our technicians will use room measurements, temperature, and relative humidity to determine the number of air movers and dehumidifiers needed to completely dry your home or business.
SERVPRO and Blackstone (NYSE:BX) announced today that private equity funds managed by Blackstone (“Blackstone”) have recapitalized SERVPRO, a leading franchisor of residential and commercial property damage restoration services. Blackstone is acquiring a majority stake in SERVPRO as part of Blackstone’s Core Private Equity strategy, which is designed to hold investments for longer periods of time than traditional private equity. The Isaacson family will be re-investing alongside Blackstone and will continue to be significant shareholders in the business going forward. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
Founded in 1967 by the Isaacson family, SERVPRO is a leading national franchisor, providing services in both residential and commercial property mitigation, restoration and reconstruction following damage related to water, fire, mold or storm activity. Since its founding, SERVPRO has now grown to over 1,700 franchisees in the United States and Canada.
Rick Isaacson, SERVPRO CEO, said, “We are thrilled about this long-term investment from Blackstone and the strategic benefits its global platform can provide the company, our franchisees, and our customers. SERVPRO was founded over 50 years ago with the vision of becoming the premier cleaning and restoration company, and we believe this partnership with Blackstone is a vital next step towards this goal.”
Peter Wallace, Senior Managing Director at Blackstone, said, “We are excited to make this investment and join together with the Isaacsons and the SERVPRO team as long-term growth partners. We believe the additional capital and extensive network of relationships that Blackstone can bring to bear will benefit not only SERVPRO, but its more than 1,700 franchisees and its customers.”
David Kestnbaum, Managing Director at Blackstone, said, “SERVPRO is a high-quality company with a strong management team and great long-term prospects. We look forward to working with SERVPRO and its franchisees to help fuel the business’ next phase of growth. As one of the largest owners of residential, office, retail, hotel, and industrial real estate in the world, Blackstone has unique expertise and insights into a broad array of properties that are relevant to SERVPRO.”
Harris Williams is acting as financial advisor to SERVPRO with respect to the transaction and Bass, Berry & Sims PLC is acting as SERVPRO’s legal counsel. Jefferies, Credit Suisse, and Deutsche Bank Securities provided debt financing for the transaction and served as financial advisors to Blackstone. Simpson Thacher & Bartlett is acting as Blackstone’s legal counsel.
Many homeowners dream of waterfront property, the smell of salty sea air and to be greeted by the ocean when the wake up every morning. As idyllic as it may sound there is another side to living on the coast. During 2018 coastal communities experienced record number of high tide flooding. Sidewalks and streets were frequently flooded mainly due to El Nino conditions. The projected increase in high tide flooding in 2018 may be as much as 60 percent higher across U.S. coastlines as compared to typical flooding about 20 years ago, according to NOAA scientists. These predictions are part of NOAA’s 2017 State of High Tide Flooding and 2018 Outlook, a report produced by NOAA’s Center for Operational Oceanographic Products and Services every year since 2014.
The report finds that during the 2017 meteorological year (May 2017-April 2018), the U.S. average number of high tide flooding days was the highest measured at 98 NOAA tide gauges. More than a quarter of the coastal locations tied or broke their individual records for high tide flood days.
The top five cities that saw the highest number of flood days across the U.S. and broke records include Boston; Atlantic City, New Jersey; Sandy Hook, New Jersey; Sabine Pass, Texas; and Galveston, Texas. These cities faced the brunt of an active nor’easter and hurricane seasons and sea level rise, which has made these and other less extreme events more impactful.
SERVPRO of Framingham specializes in Water Remediation, if you ever experience a flood or water damage call us 24/7 508-370-4400.
As a business owner, you must protect your property. You likely have insurance that covers you in case of theft, fire or other serious property damage, but not all policies cover flood damage. Even if you don't live in an area prone to flooding, one burst pipe is all it takes to create a big problem.
Have Digital Backups of Any Paper Files
No matter how well you prepare, your paper files are at risk if storm damage is a possibility. If you don't already have digital copies of your important paperwork, now is the time to create these backups. Doing so can save you days' worth of headaches during the restoration process.
- Property deeds - Insurance policies - Inventory lists - Employee information - Company handbooks and policies - Client or customer information
Create Sandbags to Protect Your Building
Placing sandbags at the doors and windows can protect your property from up to two feet of storm water. After filling each bag with sand, fold the top over and place the bag with the folded top down. Create one layer at a time, and limit their placement to three layers, unless you intend to create a pyramid or are leaning the bags against doors and windows. Remember, sandbags are a temporary solution and aren't likely to protect the building from larger floods.
Move What You Can
Consider your furniture and whether you have higher ground in your building. If you have a second story, move as much furniture and equipment to the higher floor as possible. If you have enough notice and a second property that is on higher ground, consider moving furniture and equipment to a new building entirely.
While you aren't likely to get away from flooding with no damage at all, following these steps will help you protect much of your property. Less time spent cleaning up means more time getting back into the swing of doing business.
National Weather Service is warning of intense weather headed to Massachusetts, which could mean severe thunderstorms or even tornadoes.
Temperatures are expected to climb as high as the mid-80s on afternoon in late May and as a storm system makes its way across the state, the highest risk of extreme weather is expected to kick in at around 5 or 6 p.m., NWS meteorologist. Short-lived but powerful storms, isolated thunderstorms and powerful winds, and hail sized up to an inch or two inches are more likely out in the west and northwestern parts of the state, the Weather Service says, but still possible closer to the city. The conditions may also be right for tornadoes to form.
“There’s a cold front approaching the area and we’re going to have a storm that will form along that boundary,”Correia says. “Really warm temperatures will help that instability.”
She says that the risk of tornadoes remains pretty remote, but it’s worth being alert regardless, especially if you commute by car or haveplans to be outside.
Last year was a devastating year for wildfires as it destroyed thousands of homes of the animals that inhabit the forest and the homes of celebrities that overlook such beauty, alike. As a growing number of people living in these at-risk areas, more than 25,000 structures were destroyed, including 18,137 residences and 229 commercial structures in 2018 alone. California accounted for the highest number of structures lost in one state due to the number of significant fires, including the Mendocino Complex, Carr, Camp and Woolsey fires.
According to National Fire Protection Association, home destruction vs. home survival in wildfires point to embers and small flames as the main way that the majority of homes ignite in wildfires.Embers are burning pieces of airborne wood and/or vegetation that can be carried more than a mile through the wind can cause spot fires and ignite homes, debris and other objects.
There are methods for homeowners to prepare their homes to withstand ember attacks and minimize the likelihood of flames or surface fire touching the home or any attachments. Experiments, models and post-fire studies have shown homes ignite due to the condition of the home and everything around it, up to 200’ from the foundation. This is called the Home Ignition Zone (HIZ). Within these three zones, Immediate Zone, Intermediate Zone, and Extended Zone, you the homeowner have the expectation to remove dead plant and tree materials, keep grass mowed to a height of 4”, clean roofs and gutters of dead leaves, debris and pine needles to name just a few! For more information please go to: https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/By-topic/Wildfire/Firewise-USA/Online-learning-opportunities/Online-courses
Keep your family safe from fire. Be aware of the hazards in your home. And, be sure to have an escape plan. Pull together everyone in your household and make a plan. Walk through your home and inspect all possible exits and escape routes
Burn awareness Most “fire-related injuries” are burns. Make sure kids stay more than 3 feet away from the stove. Most “fire-related injuries” are burns. In fact, approximately every 60 seconds someone in the U.S. sustains a burn injury serious enough to require treatment.*
Dryers and washing machines The leading cause of home clothes dryer and washer fires is failure to clean them.
Clothes dryers accounted for 92% of the fires; washing machines 4%, and washer and dryer combinations accounted for 5%.
The leading factor contributing to the ignition of home fires involving clothes dryers was failure to clean, accounting for one-third (33%) of dryer fires.
A mechanical or electrical failure or malfunction was involved in the vast majority of home fires involving washing machines.
Fires involving clothes dryers usually started with the ignition of something that was being dried or was a byproduct (such as lint) of drying, while washing machine fires usually involved the ignition of some part of the appliance.
Escape planning Learn the steps to create and practice a home fire escape plan. Fire can spread rapidly through your home, leaving you as little as one or two minutes to escape safely once the smoke alarm sounds. A closed door may slow the spread of smoke, heat and fire. Install smoke alarms in every sleeping room and outside each separate sleeping area. Install alarms on every level of the home. Pull together everyone in your household and make a plan. Walk through your home and inspect all possible exits and escape routes. Households with children should consider drawing a floor plan of your home, marking two ways out of each room, including windows and doors.
Gasoline & propane safety Always handle gasoline in the home or propane-powered equipment cautiously. Handle any propane-powered equipment cautiously and always follow the manufacturer's instructions.
Cylinder tanks for equipment such as stoves and ovens must be located outside of the home.
Keep gasoline out of children's sight and reach. Children should never handle gasoline.
If fire does start while handling gasoline, do not attempt to extinguish the fire or stop the flow of gasoline. Leave the area immediately, and call for help.
Do not use or store gasoline near possible ignition sources (i.e., electrical devices, oil- or gas-fired appliances, or any other device that contains a pilot flame or a spark).
Hoarding and fire safety Many fire departments are experiencing serious fires, injuries, and deaths as the result of compulsive hoarding behavior. The excessive accumulation of materials in homes poses a significant threat to firefighters fighting fires and responding to other emergencies in these homes and to residents and neighbors.
With yearly returns falling between 6-12% of purchase price, commercial property is one of the best investments available today. An investment that profitable commands an extremely high time commitment. Moreover, if you own multiple properties, the time it takes to maintain all of those properties is all but impossible for one person to handle alone. At best, it’s like adding an additional full-time job to your current list of time commitments. At worst, it will completely overrun your life. Here’s some of the best and most time-effective ways to maintain the value of your commercial property.
1: Keep Your Tenants Happy
Tenants are the single most important aspect of your commercial property investment. A property without tenants is always doomed to lose money. It stands to reason, then, that keeping your tenants happy is the first step towards a successful investment.
2: Keep the Building Safe
Keep communication channels with your tenants open. If tenants always know that they can get a hold of you when something goes wrong, they will be more confident doing business with you.
3: Keep It Clean
Nothing will ruin someone’s opinion of a property faster than filth and clutter. Your property is likely the face of your tenants’ businesses. If it’s messy and poorly maintained, their clients will become dissatisfied, which will ultimately fall back on you.
4: Maintain and Upgrade Your Property
Commercial property maintenance involves more than just vacuuming floors and wiping down windows. In fact, there are hundreds of things that you must do to keep a building maintained: check the roof for leaks, ensure that all fire and emergency equipment is functional and up to code, keep the air intake clean, and much more.
5: Invest in Efficiency
Making your building more green both maintains and increases its value. The gold standard for green buildings today comes from LEED certification. LEED stands for “Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design.” Buildings that are LEED certified demonstrate more environmental consciousness and energy efficiency than normal buildings.
You look up and see the dreaded water stain on the ceiling of your home in Metro West Boston and you instinctively know this is not good.When you cannot identify the possible water source above the stain, you could have a leaky pipe. It is not uncommon for water to run along piping or rafters before dripping onto your ceiling.
A leaky pipe may haveexisted for quiet some time itbefore becomes apparent to you. And sadly, there could be a good deal of water damage to your home that you cannot see yet. It is something you want to handle right away before EVEN more damage is done. A professional remediation company such as SERVPRO Framingham can help you get everything cleaned up. Our technicians are trained and have the right equipment for the job.
In a situation like this, we find the areas of your structure that are wet and define precisely how wet they are compared to regular moisture levels. We use various devices to help us track moisture within your home. Our goal for drying is to return materials affected to their normal moisture content levels. These tools are used to find the actual moisture content of different materials and help us figure out if your structure is dry.
SERVPRO of Framingham technicians also use thermo-hygrometers which measure both relative humidity and temperature. Some even do more, like measure dew point. We allow the thermos-hygrometer to adapt to air conditions in the room before we take a reading. We then use these readings in conjunction with a psychrometric calculator or chart. We do so to determine the specific humidity.
Readings for four areas are compared including the unaffected areas, the areas affected by moisture, outside the home, and the exhaust being processed through the dehumidifier into the area affected to make sure dehumidification is contributing to a drying process that is effective.
SERVPRO of Framingham Stops the Flood Damage In Its Tracks
When a severe thunderstorm strikes the Metro West area, conditions can cause extensive property damage.High-speed winds can break exterior walls or blow tree branches into your windows leaving a gap for rainwater to come into your structure.
If there is a significant amount of water present in the home, moisture gets pulled out of materials using a specialized extraction system. After water removal, the next step in mitigating flood damage is the rapid drying process. Drying out structural components promptly can happen with the use of drying equipment.
Air movers and dehumidifiers get placed by our SERVPRO of Framingham technicians in the affected area to create an environment that speeds up the natural evaporation process. The number of air movers and dehumidifiers used depends on the size of the affected region and how much water got into the home from the thunderstorm. The amount of dehumidification needed is calculated by how many porous materials inside the house got wet.
Once the amount of dehumidification is figured out the number of dehumidifiers needed to start drying get set up. Each day our SERVPRO of Framingham technicians return to the site and check moisture levels and humidity inside the affected area. If the region is not drying quickly, then more equipment can be set up to improve drying. If drying has been successful and the levels have dropped, then dehumidifiers get taken out.
In some situations, our SERVPRO of Framingham technicians set up a drying chamber around the affected area to help speed up drying. A drying chamber consists of thick plastic sheeting that is set up with poles around the affected region. This "tent" targets the damp areas needing additional drying. The smaller the chamber is, the less cubic feet of air the dehumidifier has to turn over.
Specific methods and techniques can help reduce drying time so that microbial growth should not occur. Monitoring the work site every day helps us make a change to ensure rapid drying. For professional help with drying out moisture after a storm floods your neighborhood, call SERVPRO of Framingham today!
Some plants and trees, like weeping willows, have pretty invasive roots. If you’re not careful, they’ll grow right into your sprinkler system, drainage field, pipes, and septic tanks. Plan before you plant to keep roots away from any water lines.
Roof Gutters, Roof Gutters, Roof Gutters:
You know it’s on your to-do list anyway, so if you can, take a safe climb up to your roof next Sunday and check out your gutters. If you’re seeing lots of leaves, birds’ nests, sticks, and whatnot up there, your gutters may not be doing the job you hired them for. And on a rainy day, a clogged gutter can send water spilling into your home’s foundation, through the roof, or down to your basement. That could cause some serious water damage! So next time you’re doing some seasonal cleaning, make sure those gutters are clean. And if your gutters are too high, be safe and get a professional to check them.
Keep a watchful eye on your water bill:
With so many water pipes hidden behind walls and in the floors in your house, you might not know there’s a leak until the damage is done. That’s why it’s a good idea to keep a close eye on your monthly water bill. If you see it starting to creep up, or get one that’s uncommonly high, it’s a pretty good sign that you may have a leak somewhere.
Use a drain snake instead of unclogging chemicals
No matter how crazy clean you are, from your shower to your kitchen sink, clogs are going to happen. And chances are at some point in your life you’ve used one of those powerful chemical drain cleaners to get things moving again. But as convenient as they may be, most folks don’t realize those caustic chemicals are also eating away at their pipes (and they might not be too good for you either). If you rely on them a lot, you could be setting yourself up for leaks. That’s why owning a drain snake is a good solution to clear away clogs. They’re pretty inexpensive, you can get them at your local hardware store, and they can cut through most any clog you’ll have without damaging pipes or making your eyes red and teary.
Never pour grease down your sink:
You’ve probably heard this before, but you should definitely avoid pouring grease down your kitchen sink. It doesn’t matter if you flush it with hot or cold water. It can still congeal and cling to your pipes, and could still cause some serious damage and blockage.
The toilet overflows, a pipe bursts, a washer overflows or you walk into your basement completely flooded by rainwater. Gross! Water can seep into almost every material and cause irreversible damage. When water saturates your carpet or walls, you will need to make decisions and make them quickly! Do not waste time contemplating how to clean up the water, each hour counts when water is involved. The longer water sits in porous material, like carpet or drywall, the sooner bacteria and microbial growth begins to grow.
One of the prime locations for microbial growth to spread is in a humid room with sopping wet carpet and walls. What do you do? Grab a shop vac and suck it up? Grab a slew of towels and cover the floor while dancing on top of them, hoping they will absorb all of the water? Grab all the fans you own and try to set them in just the right places, hoping that everything will dry out in time? Go ahead and try those techniques, but you will have a huge and more costly headache to deal with in a month.
If you choose to call a restoration company, be sure to call one who has the certifications to back up their work.
We will extract the water from the affected areas and remove any wall that is not salvageable, ultimately leaving you a clean, bacteria-free slate to work with. We even have a construction division that can help you get your home back to preloss condition. Just call SERVPRO of Framingham and we will walk you through the process. You will be informed and updated of the restoration/mitigation process throughout the entire job so that nothing is questionable. We are your go-to! Give us a call even if you just have a question and we will be happy to help.
Commercial properties are held to a high level of maintenance to ensure safety of all occupants. These buildings include:
Office Buildings – including serviced offices.
Industrial Buildings – warehouses, distribution centers and garages.
Retail/Restaurants – includes shopping centers, leisure facilities and pubs.
Other non-residential properties such as entertainment venues, hotels, nursing homes, medical and self-storage complexes, as well as many more
Legal requirements for commercial fire alarm systems
As you can imagine, there is a lot more legislation concerning the installation, placement, testing and maintenance to regulate fire alarms in commercial premises than in residential buildings. British Standards provide guidelines that should be complied with and failure to do so is seen as a breach of a responsibility towards safety and can be punishable by law.
Fire alarms systems play such a key safety role in commercial buildings and there are a lot of lives potentially at steak. If the fire alarm systems are not sufficient then harsh penalties can be given, including hefty fines and in the case of extreme negligence, this can even result in imprisonment if lives are lost as a result of an ineffective approach to fire safety.
In addition if a fire does occur on a commercialproperty,insurance policies may be voided if it can be proved that the fire alarm and smoke detectors were ineffective. Be sure to test your alarms!!
Your insurance policy will cover certain perils, which are causes of damage such as fire or theft. Coverages included in your policy are called inclusions, whereas perils not covered in your policy are called exclusions. It’s important to know what is covered in your policy and what is not covered.
Here are some of the primary items covered in a commercial property insurance policy due to loss from a covered peril:
The building, owned or leased
Business equipment loss
Damage or loss due to wind, hail, fire or theft
Accidental damage of property
Business Interruption (lost business income)
Electronic data
Interruption of computer operations
Valuable papers and records
Forgery or alteration
Accounts receivable
Of the covered items in a commercial property insurance policy, the most important items to cover are the building and the business’ assets contained within it. Business interruption, which covers a loss of income when your business is forced to suspend operations due to a covered event, is also necessary coverage in the property insurance policy.
For more information, reach out to your local insurance provider.
Effective training is the best way to help ensure your customers receive the service they deserve. We are trained to IICRC standards in Fire and Water Cleanup and Restoration. In addition, continuing education classes are available to Franchise Professionals and Insurance Clients at our state of the art IICRC Approved Training Facility.
Vendor Qualification Compliance and Professionalism
If you call SERVPRO, we will use only qualified vendors to service your customer. That commitment resulted in:
A National Call Center to achieve prompt handling of the claim.
Implementation of best practices and job process programs.
National Accounts qualification criteria and annual compliance checks.
Crew and vehicle standards.
Insurance requirements.
File documentation requirements.
Quality assurance program.
Serving Adjusters and Their Clients
A SERVPRO of Framingham's job is to reassure the customer, perform quality service and to report to you quickly. We know your job is to interpret the policy and adjust the claim... and not to deal with problems from vendors! Working together we strive to save you time so you can focus on priority files, while having complete control of every loss you are assigned. 24-hour emergency response, damage mitigation, loss assessment, and an electronic file are available to you within hours. SERVPRO of Framingham's documented, measured performance increases value to you and your shareholders, managers and customers.
Hard-earned results have made SERVPRO leaders in the fire and water cleanup and restoration industry. The SERVPRO System is geared to achieve customer satisfaction and mitigation results, adding to your company’s competitive advantage.
SERVPRO of Framingham understands your situation. As an agent or adjuster, you have a responsibility to keep claims costs down while still providing the best services possible for your customers.
We are uniquely qualified to help. Our results create a measurable difference, giving you many competitive advantages.
Emergency Response to Claims
Restoring property is our first priority. Your customer will appreciate the immediate response and you will know everything is being done to limit the damage.
Pretesting Reduces Claims Expense
Restoring property is less expensive than replacing property. Claims Professionals know the rule is, "Restore whenever possible, replace only when necessary."SERVPRO of Framingham makes sure pretesting is completed on every loss to determine restorability.
Claims Inventory Service
We can provide an itemized loss inventory. You will receive an Excel formatted report and pictures of important items.
Electronic Claims Information
Our Claims Information Center provides fast, accurate information you need to make sound decisions, including:
House fires occur during the coldest months out of the year, Winter, than in any other season. While you are enjoying being warm and cozy this winter season, please also be vigilant and smart about Fire Safety. The reason being is that heating equipment is responsible for 1 in every 7 reported home fires and 1 in every 5 home fire deaths. And although wood burning stoves give off that nice amber glow and the space heater emits warmth, be sure to keep anything that can burn at least 3 feet from any heat source like fireplaces, wood stoves, radiators or space heaters.
Many homeowners have invested in generators for those winter blizzards that threaten us to lose power. Generators are great at giving us light, keeping us warm and refrigerating our perishable food. However it is so important to keep portable generators outside, away from windows, and as far away as possible from your home. Carbon Monoxide detectors are just as important as your smoke detectors. Test your carbon monoxide alarms at least once a month. To avoid electrical fires, plug only 1 heat-producing appliance (such as a space heater) into an electrical outlet at a time. Always have a qualified professional clean and inspect your chimney and vents every year! And any remaining ashes that have been cooled should always be stored in tightly covered metal container, and kept outside at least 10 feet from your home and any nearby buildings.
By following these simple rules will help keep your loved ones and home safe and warm during the coldest days of the year.
Home Fire Sprinklers can Dramatically Reduce Heat, Flames and Smoke
When properly installed and maintained, fire sprinklers help save lives.
Fire sprinklers have been around for more than a century, protecting commercial and industrial properties and public buildings. What many people don't realize is that the same life-saving technology is also available for homes, where roughly 80 percent of all civilian fire deaths occur.
The National Fire Protection Association’s (NFPA) Fire Sprinkler Initiative outlines proven, effective ways that home fire sprinkler advocates can communicate the impact of sprinklers to their decision makers. NFPA’s Fire Sprinkler Initiative highlights key research underscoring how fire sprinklers can reduce the risk of death or injury from fire. According to NFPA's "U.S. Experience with Sprinklers" report:
the civilian death rate was 81 percent lower in homes with fire sprinklers than in homes without them
the average firefighter injury rate was nearly 80 percent lower when fire sprinklers were present during fires
when sprinklers were present, fires were kept to the room of origin 97 percent of the time
the home fire death rate was 90 percent lower when fire sprinklers and hardwired smoke alarms were present. By comparison, this death rate is only 18 percent lower when battery-powered smoke alarms are present but automatic extinguishing systems weren't
Smoke alarms that are properly installed and maintained play a vital role in reducing fire deaths and injuries. If there is a fire in your home, smoke spreads fast and you need smoke alarms to give you time to get out.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW!
A closed door may slow the spread of smoke, heat and fire. Install smoke alarms in every sleeping room and outside each separate sleeping area. Install alarms on every level of the home.
Smoke alarms should be interconnected. When one sounds, they all sound.
Large homes may need extra smoke alarms.
Test your smoke alarms at least once a month. Press the test button to be sure the alarm is working.
Today’s smoke alarms will be more technologically advanced to respond to a multitude of fire conditions, yet mitigate false alarms.
When a smoke alarm sounds, get outside and stay outside.
Replace all smoke alarms in your home every 10 years.
How to Prevent Commercial Fire Sprinklers from Freezing
Mineral fiber insulation is one of the primary ways to reduce the risk of sprinkler system from freezing. Although insulation alone may not prevent freezing when temperatures are cold enough for an extended period, properly installed insulation can significantly reduce the chance of sprinkler systems freezing.
A basic knowledge of heat flow will make clear how insulation is used to reduce the chance of sprinkler pipes freezing, according to the Insulation Institute.
How Heat Flow Works
Heat moves from warm areas to cold areas, and insulation slows the flow of heat. Insulation does not stop heat flow, so it is important that the pipes are installed in areas within or close to the heated part of the building and insulation is placed between the sprinkler system pipes and the colder outside.
Insulation’s property to slow heat flow is expressed as R-value. The greater the R-value the greater the ability to slow heat flow. It is important that the heating system remains on to supply heat to the building. If the heating system fails and the temperature goes below freezing for a long enough time the heat in the water will move to the colder areas and the pipes may freeze.
Another strategy to reduce the chance of pipes freezing is to use “heat tracing,” which is a flexible electric resistance heating element typically controlled by a thermostat, which is wrapped around the pipe to supply heat when needed, but this will not help when the electric power is out.
Options for Using Insulation to Reduce Freezing
Properly installed mineral fiber insulation is a practical method to reduce the chance of wet pipe systems (or those that always contain water) from freezing. Below are illustrations to show some possible designs for insulation systems for fire sprinkler systems which contain water. Note there are many other acceptable systems which will reduce the chance of sprinkler systems freezing and the systems shown are not guaranteed to prevent pipes from freezing.
Cold weather, snow, and ice storms can cause severe damage like ice dams and roof damages to your home or business. When these types of disasters strike, immediate action is necessary to prevent additional damage to your property.
An ice dam is formed when snow melts unevenly on a roof and refreezes into a dam at the edge of the roof, near the eaves. This dam prevents any further snowmelt from draining off of the roof. This standing water can back up under shingles, leak into a home, and cause significant water damage to ceilings, walls, and other areas. Ice dams can also tear off gutters and loosen shingles.
Snow and ice can cause significant damage to your gutters and roof. The additional weight of snow and ice can even cause a roof to collapse. When there’s a cold snap, water can get into cracks and small spaces and expand when it freezes, causing larger cracks and more damage. The repetition of freezing and thawing cycles can cause small cracks to get larger.
Flooding happens during heavy rains, when rivers overflow, when ocean waves come onshore, when snow melts too fast, or when dams or levees break. This is the most common natural-weather event. Flooding may be only a few inches of water or it may cover a house to therooftop. Floods that happen very quickly are called flash floods.
What to do Before
Build an emergency kit.
Make a family communications plan.
Tell an adult if you hear a flood warning on the TV or radio.
During
Listen to authorities and safety officials.
If there is any possibility of a flash flood, move immediately to higher ground.
Help your family move important items to an upper floor.
Do not walk through moving water. Even 6” of water can make you fall.
After
Stay away from flood water. It could be contaminated, meaning contain dangerous substances.
Stay away from moving water. It can knock you off your feet.
Stay out of the way of emergency workers so they can do their job easily.
SERVPRO - The Most Trusted Restoration Company with over 50 years of Expertise
Ted and Doris Isaacson launched SERVPRO in 1967 as a painting business in Sacramento, Calif. With a background in cleaning and restoration, however, Ted and Doris soon transformed the company into a franchisor of cleanup and restoration specialists.
After selling its first Franchise in 1969, SERVPRO continued to grow, acquiring the Bristol-Myers Domesticare Division and its 175 Franchises in 1979.
SERVPRO relocated the corporate headquarters from Sacramento to Gallatin, TN, in 1988 in a strategic move to place itself within 600 miles of 50% of the U.S. population.
At the time of the relocation, the SERVPRO System consisted of 647 Franchises.
SERVPRO Corporate quickly became a key contributor in its community, and in 1991 the Nashville Business Journal named SERVPRO the Small Business of the Year. In the meantime the company continued its impressive growth, selling the 1,000th Franchise in 2000. Learn more about our Awards and Recognition.
In 2005, SERVPRO moved to a 140,000 square-foot, state-of-the-art facility in Gallatin to provide more room for expansion.
With a proud history, a successful present and a bright future, SERVPRO will press on toward becoming the premier cleaning and restoration company in the world.
Have you ever worried about the antimicrobial products that you use? Sure they do the job but are they toxic? Are they suitable for use around children, pets, the chemically-sensitive or the elderly? Are they environmentally responsible & sustainable? Botanical products are the answer to all of these questions.
How can a disinfectant be less toxic than vinegar?
In nature, plants produce germ-killing 'essential oils' to protect themselves from invading microbes, similar to how our bodies produce antibodies for our protection. Benefect is a revolutionary blend of these antimicrobial extracts, particularly from the herb Thyme, and achieves remarkable efficacy ...without using any traditional synthetic chemicals
Here at SERVPRO we use Benefact. And people have asked what do we mean when we say Benefect is authentically botanical? “Authentic” is defined as not false or copied, genuine, real. “Botanical” means a substance obtained from a plant. Benefect was the world’s first and is still the ONLY authentically botanical disinfectant technology. It doesn’t use synthetic active ingredients but contains thyme and other essential oils, that are nonhazardous and sustainable, to kill the germs.
SERVPRO of Framingham Offers Air Duct Cleaning Too
According to the National Air Ducts Cleaners Association (NADCA) Air Duct cleaning is an important component to improving indoor air quality and having a healthy home. In addition to normal accumulations of dust and dirt found in all homes with air ducts, there are several other factors that can increase the need for regular HVAC system cleaning:
pets
occupants with allergies or asthma
cigarette or cigar smoke
water contamination or damage to the home or HVAC system
home renovation or remodeling projects
Some occupants are more sensitive to these contaminants than others. Allergy and asthma sufferers, as well as young children and the elderly tend to be more susceptible to the types of poor indoor air quality that air duct cleaning can help address.
Ventilation systems are often the biggest culprit in poor indoor air quality. Make it a priority to inspect the ductwork of your home or business.
If your HVAC has been operating for some time without attention, it could be circulating odors, dust and other contaminates.
SERVPRO of Framingham routinely inspect the heating, ventilation and air conditioning unit (HVAC). Keeping them clean can extend the life of the equipment. This can in turn save you money and give you cleaner air to breathe.
It’s mid-January and just this past weekend, we finally said goodbye to our snowless winter. In true New England fashion we started our weekend off with 6 inches of snow and temperatures in the single digits. These unbearable arctic temps were responsible for dozens of pipe bursts throughout the region, wreaking havoc in several homes. The precipitation then quickly transitioned into rain, freezing rain, and sleet in parts of the state the following day. Shortly thereafter our snow washed away and The National Weather Service issued a flood watch for southeastern Massachusetts expecting 2 to 3 inches of rain with temperatures climbing to the mid 50’s. Frantic calls to SERVPRO of Framingham for pipe bursts quickly switched over to frantic calls for flooded basements caused by groundwater and leaking roofs. Rain, freeze, sleet or snow – SERVPRO Framingham is here for you, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
A powerful front crossing west to east across New England with torrential rain and melting snow resulted in flooding and wind gust past 50 mph with a thunderstorm.
This combination of heavy rain and warm temperatures melted large piles plenty of snow in New England on Friday. And with many storm drains still blocked by snow and ice, localized flooding occurred in streets, low river banks and in particular, many homeowners’ basements.
When your home or commercial property has water damage from flooding or leaks, we have the expertise and equipment to properly restore your property. SERVPRO of Framingham’s experience and scientific approach to water removal and water cleanup enable us to properly dry and restore your property.
It’s January in New England, which means Pipe Freezing Season! Anyone who has experienced this unexpected disaster knows the extent to which it can cause damage and disruption to the comfort and security to your home. In addition, it is a common misnomer to think this only happens when you are away or when a home is vacated.
When water freezes, it expands and sadly what most people do not know is that even metal cannot contain this tremendous expansion. The pipes most susceptible to freezing are outdoor hose bibs, swimming pool supplies lines and water sprinkler lines are water supply pipes contained in unheated interior areas like basements, crawl spaces, attics, garages, and even kitchen cabinets. These pipes run against exterior walls that have little or no insulation.
Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we! SERVPRO Framingham provides emergency water restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. In trouble? Give us a call and we will be there ASAP!
SERVPRO FRAMINGHAM ACQUIRES NEW LOCATION IN WESTWOOD!
SERVPRO of Framingham, Newton/Wellesley has expanded resources available to you by acquiring SERVPRO of Norwood/West Roxbury. These combined franchises will now service towns as far west as Hopkinton and as far east towards the Dedham/Norwood region.
Dave Kurzontkowski, Licensed Contractor and former Insurance Agent and his wife Jill, purchased SERVPRO of Framingham in 2009 and subsequently SERVPRO of Newton/Wellesley in 2015.
Dave and his team have earned an impeccable reputation in the area because of their excellent work ethic, congeniality and professionalism. This dedicated SERVPRO team is able to ease the stress and anxiety of customers experiencing difficult situations. A resident of Hopkinton commented after using SERVPRO of Framingham, Newton/Wellesley and Norwood/West Roxbury services, “I was truly impressed by their utmost professionalism, courtesy, and competency, and thoroughly cleaned up nicely after each job.“
The new location of SERVPRO of Norwood/WestRoxury, covers the towns of Norwood, Westwood, Dedham and West Roxbury.
SERVPRO has earned the title of trusted leader in the restoration industry with highly trained technicians committed to responding faster than any competitor to any size disaster, big or small. Offering 24-hour emergency service and providing the training and expertise to handle your immediate cleaning needs as well as the long term commitment to restore your property to a condition equivalent to “Like it never even happened.”®
Strategically located to be faster to getting to you when your need is greatest, SERVPRO also follows up with highly trained restoration technicians in advanced restoration, remodeling and renovation including custom carpentry.
It is hard to put into words what the reality is like when a homeowner or business owner experiences emotional devastation due to destruction of property by fire, invasive mold or flooding. Whether it happens to your home, the safe place that is the source of protection for your family or if it happens to the place that is the source of your livelihood, you are left feeling helpless and vulnerable. This unexpected trauma reaches you in stages, first you are in shock, second you attempt to make sense of the situation and think about possible solutions, and thirdly you call someone to assist you in the process of recovery. Making the right call to the right service that will see you through from start to finish without abandonment at any point in the process is critical to your future happiness and security. SERVPRO of Framingham is that service. If you call SERVPRO you will have made your first step toward complete recovery. SERVPRO is now a one stop service, a company that offers restoration, renovation and complete rebuilding to reverse your devastating loss and to do so “Like it never even happened.” ®. When your needs are greatest, you want the most expertise full service company available locally and that is SERVPRO Framingham.
There are additional benefits in choosing SERVPRO. One being that 95% of our work is dealing with renovations that entails insurance adjusters, insurance companies, and insurance agents.We welcome being the middleman because then we can ensure a smooth and continuous transition from the first moment of loss to the application of finishing touches. SERVPRO owner Dave Kurzontkowski is a Licensed Contractor, a former Insurance Agent, and an extremely knowledgeable restoration and renovation expert.
Our team of technicians, designers and construction crew are focused on every detail and will work with you, walking you through the entire collaborative process. Our quality craftsmanship and mastery will be displayed in your end product of a beautifully restored home or business so that you will feel “Like it never even happened.” ®
According to the National Fire Protection Agency U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated annual average of 200 Christmas tree related home fires during the holiday season. In total, the average annual property damage is over $14 million dollars! While such fires are uncommon they are more likely to result in civilian death. A death occurs in 3% of reported Christmas tree fires. By comparison a fatality occurs in only ½% of all other reported home fires. The reason for this discrepancy, Christmas tree fires usually star overnight when trees are left lit. Remember to turn your tree lights off before going to bed and if your tree is natural make sure to water it regularly and dispose of it shortly after the holidays.
We at Framingham wish you and yours a happy and safe holiday season!
The more holiday lights the better, right? Weather we are talking about strands of our favorite Christmas lights or holiday scented candles, one quarter of reported Christmas tree fires the result of electrical problems or heat sources too close to the tree (according to the NFPA). Be sure not to overload outlets with multiple strands of lights and make sure that the electrical wiring is up to current electrical code standards. Also, check the wiring to ensure that there are no frays or loose connections. If candles are the way you light up your holidays then follow these two important safety tips. Do not leave candles lit when going to bed or if no one is home. Additionally, keep them a safe distance from anything flammable.
We at SERVPRO Framingham wish you and yours a happy and safe holiday season!
When approaching mold clean up a lot of people wonder which method is best, “Dry Blast” vs “Sand Blast”, The answer is neither , the reality in today’s world is this is unnecessary because; dry ice is costly, it only removes surface mold, and porous materials require a deep cleaning. SERVPRO technicians use anti-fungal and anti-microbial treatments that kill mold colonies and help prevent new colonies from forming
When tackling mold we make it a priority to set up containment. All remediation companies will set up containment, but when and how is the issue. We set up containment prior to applying the “eyeball test”. Which is as follows
The “Eyeball Test” – Assessing the Environment
Has there been a previous water damage
Do you smell musty odors of mold
Do you see areas of mold contamination
Our competitors cut 4 x 8 holes in the wall from the ground up
Surface Porosity – The porous nature of building material varies – Hardwoods are less porous than soft wood. The types of paint used will change the porous nature of building materials. Flat paint does little to protect against odor penetration while paints with a high gloss finish may make a surface impervious to odor and moisture penetration. Items like carpet, drapes, and upholstery are all excellent vessels for odor retention.
Heat - Heat causes porous surfaces to expand, allowing odors to penetrate even deeper. When heat is removed, the surfaces cool, contract, and trap the odor particles. This is why odors resulting from a fire are so pungent and challenging to neutralize.
Heavy concentrations of residue - The more concentrated the residue from substances causing the odor, the greater the surface area of materials that it can impact.
Exposure time - The longer a surface is exposed to odor particles, the greater the number of odor particles that will penetrate porous surfaces. The greater the number of odor particles that penetrate porous surface areas the stronger the odors are likely to be.
Environmental factors also influence our reception of odors. Odor molecules are very volatile; they vaporize easily. High humidity levels help dissolve and carry odor vapors to the nose. This makes odors in humid air seem stronger than those in dry air. Weather conditions thus impact how evident odors are to people; odors become more detectable by the nose as the humidity increases. Our technicians alert our clients about these potential environmental impacts. It is quite possible, even months later, for odors to reappear during times of increased humidity or temperature. That is not so say that the odor neutralization process was incomplete, but rather the environmental conditions have changed and become more conducive to odor reception. In some cases additional neutralization may be necessary.
Next Up - Deodorization methods and basic procedures
Odor remediation projects tend to be complex. Odors may be real or imaginary. Furthermore, interpretation of odor as good versus bad varies from client to client. As such every remediation project presents a unique set of challenges to our technicians. Over the coming weeks I would like to provide insight into some of these challenges and how to properly neutralize odor. To begin with we need to better understand how we as humans process odor, what odor is, why odor remains, and finally environmental conditions that may enhance our reception of odor.
Humans depend on their nose as the best “instrument” for detecting odor. Odors result from airborne chemicals, gases, or tiny particles. As we breathe, these substances are absorbed by the mucous membranes in our nose and mouth. Receptors in the nose send a message to the brain, where the odor sensation is interpreted. Each individual reacts to odors differently in detecting whether odors are present and how intense they are. Interestingly there are two types of odors — real and imagined.
Real odor is the sensation of smell caused by a real substance. Odor molecules interact with olfactory nerve cells in the nose. The olfactory nerves send a message to the brain that is interpreted by the olfactory lobe.
Imaginary or psychological odor is what people think they smell. They are stimulated by a given set of circumstances and strong impressions formed from similar circumstances before. Some people think they smell something because of the circumstances, not because of an odor actually being present. Imaginary odors are sometimes called heightened awareness odors, because circumstances have made the individual more aware of odor than he or she normally would be, and thus more likely to smell something that no one else smells.
Moreover, the term odor describes both good and bad smells. Whether an odor smells good or bad is in the mind of the individual. Some odors — such as putrefying flesh — are considered unpleasant by almost everyone. Other odors — such as gasoline or paint fumes— may be considered good odors by some people, but extremely offensive by others. The interpretation of whether a smell is good or bad differs from one individual to the next.
Odor particles are tiny. Tiny objects are measured in microns, and odor particles range in size from .1 (one tenth) of a micron to about four (4) microns. To put these sizes in perspective take a look at the period at the end of this sentence. That period is about 150 microns in size or 38 times bigger than the largest possible odor particle! The extremely small size of odor particles allows them to penetrate surfaces easily. It is this penetration into building materials and furniture which result in odors remaining in our environments. This is also what makes the odor neutralization process at times challenging.
NEXT - Factors which Help Odors Penetrate
Why Should you have your Commercial HVAC System Cleaned?
NADCA addresses this question in a short simple answer: because they get dirty over time and they have the potential to contain large amounts of dust and particulates.
Energy Savings
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, 25 to 40 percent of the energy used for heating or cooling is wasted. Contaminants in the heating and cooling system cause it to work harder and shorten the life of your system. Although filters are used, the heating and cooling system still gets dirty through normal use. When an HVAC system is clean, it doesn’t have to work as hard to maintain the temperature you desire. As a result, less energy is used, leading to improved cost-
Indoor Air Quality
Indoor air quality is one concern that building managers and building inhabitants have when they decide to investigate HVAC system. Through normal occupation in a building, we generate a great deal of contaminants and air pollutants, such as dander, dust, and chemicals. These contaminants are pulled into the HVAC system and re-circulated 5 to 7 times per day, on average. Over time, this re-circulation causes a build-up of contaminants in the ductwork.
While a contaminated HVAC system doesn't necessarily mean unhealthy air, the situation may be contributing to larger health issues or harboring contaminants that could cause serious problems for people with respiratory health conditions, autoimmune disorders or some environmental allergies.
You may suspect hidden mold if a building smells moldy, but you cannot see the source, or know there has been water damage. Mold may be hidden in places such as the
back side of dry wall,
wallpaper,
paneling,
the top side of ceiling tiles,
the underside of carpets and pads, etc.
Other possible locations of hidden mold include areas
inside walls around pipes (with leaking or condensing pipes),
the surface of walls behind furniture (where condensation forms),
inside ductwork
in roof materials above ceiling tiles (due to roof leaks or insufficient insulation).
Investigating hidden mold problems
Investigating hidden mold problems may be difficult and will require caution when the investigation involves disturbing potential sites of mold growth. For example, removal of wallpaper can lead to a massive release of spores if there is mold growing on the underside of the paper. If you believe that you may have a hidden mold problem, please reach out to SERVPRO Framingham and we’ll take a look right away.
Should I get flood insurance always crosses a homeowners mind after a situation has arose and unfortunately in most cases, that option is too late. According to FEMA, Standard homeowner’s insurance policies do not cover flood. Flood is most often called an excluded peril, meaning it’s not covered. You should consider flood insurance even if you’re not required to purchase it or if you live outside a high-risk flood zone, called a Special Flood Hazard Area.
Flood zones are areas where there is a higher statistical probability of a flood occurring, but that doesn’t mean floods don’t occur elsewhere. In fact, in Texas over the last five years, a number of floods exceeded the statistical probability, putting more homes and properties in harm’s way than were expected.
Flood insurance can protect you from the catastrophic financial impact of flooding. Just a few inches of water can mean thousands of dollars of loss to your home or business. As long as your community participates in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), as a homeowner or business owner you can get building and contents coverage included in your NFIP policy. Renters can get coverage for contents only. Policies issued by the NFIP pay even if a federal disaster is not declared.
Where can I buy flood insurance?
You can buy flood insurance by contacting your insurance company or agent.
As soon as possible. FEMA urges you to buy flood insurance before a flood event occurs. NFIP cannot pay a claim if you don’t have a policy in effect when damage occurs. An insurance policy from NFIP becomes effective 30 days after you buy it, unless the purchase is associated with the origination, renewal or extension of a federally backed loan on property in a high-risk area.
I am not in a flood hazard area, but I’d like to purchase flood insurance. Is this possible?
Yes, as long as your community participates in NFIP. You are eligible to purchase a flood policy with the same coverage you would receive if you lived in a high-risk area. A Preferred Risk Policy (a lower-cost flood insurance policy) provides both building and contents coverage for properties in moderate-to-low risk areas for one price.
Can I get flood insurance if I'm renting a property?
Yes. If you live in a community that participates in NFIP and you are a renter, you can get flood insurance to cover the contents of your home, apartment or business at a rented location.
June thru August is the Peak Season for Lightning Fires
According to the National Fire Protection Association, During 2007-2011, U.S. local fire departments responded to an estimated average of 22,600 fires per year that were started by lightning. These fires caused an average of nine civilian deaths, 53 civilian injuries, and $451 million in direct property damage per year. Most of these fires occurred outdoors, but most associated deaths, injuries, and property damage were associated with home fires.
Lightning-related fires are more common in June through August and in the late afternoon and evening.Peak seasons for lightning-related fires vary by region, as do weather patterns in general.
In addition to the fires reported to local fire departments, federal and state wildland firefighting agencies reported an average of 9,000 wildland fires started by lightning to the National Interagency Fire Center per year in 2008-2012. These fires tended to be larger than fires started by human causes. The average lightning-caused fire burned 402 acres, nine times the average of 45 acres seen in human-caused wildland fires.
In addition to causing fires, lightning is dangerous on its own. Data from the National Weather Service show that in 2008-2012, an average of 29 people per year died as a result of lightning strikes. The most common location for these deaths was outside or in an open area. The average number of lightning flashes per square mile varies considerably by state, as does the death rate from lightning incidents.
Know your area’s risk for thunderstorms. In most places, they can occur year-round and at any hour.
Sign up for your community’s warning system. The Emergency Alert System (EAS) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio also provide emergency alerts.
Identify nearby, sturdy buildings close to where you live, work, study, and play.
Cut down or trim trees that may be in danger of falling on your home.
Consider buying surge protectors, lightning rods, or a lightning protection system to protect your home, appliances, and electronic devices.
When thunder roars, go indoors. A sturdy building is the safest place to be during a thunderstorm.
Pay attention to weather reports and warnings of thunderstorms. Be ready to change plans, if necessary, to be near shelter.
When you receive a thunderstorm warning or hear thunder, go inside immediately.
If indoors, avoid running water or using landline phones. Electricity can travel through plumbing and phone lines.
Protect your property. Unplug appliances and other electric devices. Secure outside furniture.
If boating or swimming, get to land and find a sturdy, grounded shelter or vehicle immediately.
If necessary, take shelter in a car with a metal top and sides. Do not touch anything metal.
Avoid flooded roadways. Turn Around. Just six inches of fast-moving water can knock you down, and one foot of moving water can sweep your vehicle away.
Household mold primarily thrives in damp, humid areas, such as basements, showers and areas around heating and cooling appliances. Mold in homes can also occur in carpets, ventilation ducts and crawlspaces. The best way to guard against mold in your house is to ensure there are no active leaks or areas where moisture is collecting regularly. The most common places where mold is found are:
Basements or cellars that have been flooded
Underneath kitchen and bathroom sinks
Underneath or behind refrigerators
Behind walls that also house plumbing
Stacks of damp or wet newspaper or cardboard boxes
Around air-conditioning units
Wallboard or around windows that leak
Under carpeting that may have become wet
By regularly inspecting common areas for mold in your home to ensure there are no leaks or other sources of moisture that could contribute to mold growth, you should be able to steer clear of the expensive and unhealthy problems mold in houses can cause.
Occasionally, it is very obvious to the homeowner when their house is in need for repair. For instance water gushing from a pipe burst.
However, unlike major water leaks or broken windows, rotting wood can easily escape notice, unless you specifically look for it. And unfortunately, like a spot of rust on a car, wood rot can spread far and wide, making it especially dangerous to your home’s wooden building materials.
Be on the lookout for any sign of soft, brittle, or crumbly wood. In extreme cases rotten wood may even disintegrate as you touch it.
As you poke around, keep your eyes peeled for discoloration, which is a sign of fungi and rot. Also, if you find a surface with peeling paint that feels damp, you may have just uncovered a water leak behind that spot. Investigate further and fix any leaks you find.
Check any painted or sealed wooden surfaces on your home’s exterior for cracks in the paint or sealant. Any crack you find, even small ones, can allow water to work its way into the wooden material, resulting in rot.
Because of its tendency to spread, you should repair rotten wood ASAP when you discover it, and make sure you fix it completely. Otherwise, you will only face more serious and extensive repairs down the road. Ultimately, serious enough wood rot can even compromise your home’s structural integrity.
You should inspect your home for rotting wood at least annually - or twice per year if you live in a damp climate. Ideally, make this inspection a regular part of your spring and fall maintenance routine, it will save you from a lot of heartache and money.
According to the Insurance Information Institute, for small businesses without specialized risks, a Business Owners Policy—or BOP—may offer the basic property and liability coverage that you need. But if your company is growing in size and complexity—or you face specialized risks due to the nature of your business—you may want to consider purchasing a Commercial Package Policy, or CPP for short.
Customized insurance under one policy
Like a BOP, a CPP enables you to bundle various types of coverage within a single policy. However, while a BOP has limitations—it is only available for certain types of smaller businesses and covers only a few types of risk—Commercial Package Policies are available for a wide range of businesses, and can be better customized to the specific needs of your business. Most CPPs begin with:
Property insurance- Covers damage or destruction of buildings, equipment, inventory and more.
General liability insurance- Covers costs if someone is injured at your business or from using your product or service.
From there, you can add a range of coverages to your CPP, including:
Business income insurance- Also known as business interruption insurance, this replaces lost revenues and covers extra expenses in the event that your business has to shut down or relocate due to fire, wind damage or other covered losses.
Business vehicle (or fleet) insurance- Covers vehicles owned and used by your business.
Business crime insurance- Covers losses from burglary, computer fraud, employee dishonesty and other business crimes.
Commercial umbrella liability- Increases and broadens liability coverage, filling in gaps left by other coverages.
Electronic data processing coverage- Covers costs associated with the loss or damage of electronic data processing media or equipment.
Equipment breakdown—Also known as boiler and machinery insurance, this covers losses from the malfunction of heating, electrical, air conditioning, telephone systems and other equipment.
Employment practices liability—Covers costs tied to disputes with employees over termination, discrimination, sexual harassment and other employment issues.
Inland marine—Covers the transport of goods over water and land, providing comprehensive protection for assets that are moveable or mobile in nature, while in transit—such as from a warehouse to a store—or in storage.
Pollution liability—Covers costs related to pollution, including clean-up and personal injury.
A range of other types of insurance—covering professional liability, supply chain risk, terrorism, farming or ranching losses, and more—can also be included in a CPP.
What a CPP doesn’t cover
A CPP can provide your business with coverage against a broad range of risks. That said, it’s important to recognize that your CPP will not include:
Directors and Officers (D&O) liability
Health and disability
Life insurance
Workers compensation
These coverages must be purchased separately; discuss your additional insurance needs with your insurance professional.
As stated in HomeSteady; An overflowing dishwasher can be a serious problem in your kitchen. Water leaking from the unit can cause damage to your floors that requires major repair. Several underlying problems can cause a dishwasher to overflow with water and detergent. The problems range from simple user error to faulty parts that need adjustment or replacement. Knowing the potential causes can help you diagnose and repair the problem quickly before more damage occurs.
Dish Detergent:
The most common reason for dishwasher overflow is soapsuds. By using a poor detergent that leaves more than 1/2 inch of suds on top of the water, a soapy overflow can happen. Also, the addition of even a very small amount of dishwasher liquid or hand soap can cause overflow around the door. If you have inadvertently put too much detergent or the wrong type of soap into the machine, add some vinegar to the tub to remove the foam.
Door Gasket
If water is leaking out around the dishwasher door and it is not soapy or foamy, there is a good chance that the door gasket has worn out. The door gasket is a rubber seal that surrounds the door opening and prevents such leaking. But if the gasket is torn, worn, dirty or missing entirely, it can easily allow large amounts of water through the opening and into the floor. Replacement is generally the best way to repair this problem.
Tub Seal
If the motor in your dishwasher is mounted vertically beneath the main rack in the bottom center of your machine, the tub seal may be leaking, which typically results in water overflowing underneath the dishwasher and running either behind or out in front of the unit. With this type of motor, you can remove the seal from its housing and replace it to solve the problem. Otherwise, you may have a motor that is mounted horizontally. These machines are not as self-service friendly and usually require professional repair or complete replacement of the motor assembly.
Water Supply Tube
Water flows from the same water pipes that supply the rest of your home into a supply tube that hooks into the machine, generally near the bottom rear of the dishwasher. If you are seeing evidence of overflow, the problem may not be an overflow at all. In fact, the water possibly never reached the machine at all. Holes in the supply tube will result in water spillage as will improperly connected tubes. Water may actually be spilling out from the connector and causing you to think there is a problem with the machine.
Hailstorms are statistically one of the most costly natural disasters
As stated in "Hale Depot", according to the National Weather Service, hail results in some of the highest rates of property damage in terms of natural hazards. In 2015, hail caused 586 million dollars in property damage, and in 2016, hail caused 3.5 billion dollars in damage.
Hail does not immediately fall after it forms
Hail forms inside the clouds of a thunderstorm, and actually begins as just a tiny drop of supercooled water. This just means that it is below freezing temperatures, but still in a liquefied form. If it stays at this extra cold temperature for long enough, it will eventually freeze and solidify into a small hailstone. The tiny ball of ice still isn’t heavy enough to fall yet and remains suspended in the thundercloud by an updraft caused by the storm. These hailstones tumble around and collect more condensation, which freezes and makes the hailstone bigger – kind of like rolling a snowball around in the snow to make larger. Once the stone becomes too heavy to stay afloat, it falls to the ground.
There is a threshold for what is considered “severe” hail
The National Weather Service classifies “severe” hail as being at least 1-inch in diameter, about the size of your average gumball. It seems like a lot of hail storms are considered severe because that’s what we see on the news, but most hailstorms involve hailstones that are closer to the size of peas. Even hail that does not reach the “severe” state can still cause damage to cars and injure people.
The largest hailstone ever recorded was the size of a volleyball
We often refer to sizes of hailstones in terms of recognizable, everyday objects. We’ve already done it in this article! For some perspective, a hailstone that is 1 inch in diameter is the size of a gumball. After that, a hailstone that is 1.5 inches is most recognized as the size of a ping-pong ball, and next comes some golf ball-sized hail at 1.75 inches across. When people talk about “baseball-sized hail,” they’re referring to hailstones that are about 2.75 inches in diameter. The largest hailstone ever recorded was bigger than a baseball. It was bigger than a softball.
Hail happens most often during the summer
No, it isn’t opposite day. Even though balls of ice fall from the sky during a hailstorm, these occurrences are actually most common during the summertime and warmer months. So why does this happen? Hail forms inside of thunderclouds, so there need to be proper atmospheric conditions that support both thunderstorms and hail. This happens in the early months of summer when the ground temperatures are warm, but temperatures in the upper atmosphere are cold enough to form ice. The greater the contrast between upper and lower temperatures, the stronger the updraft of the storm will be. Stronger updrafts can suspend hailstones for longer periods, meaning that the ice continues to collect and grow the hailstone bigger until they eventually fall. That’s why warm summer months are the perfect time for hail to form and ultimately fall.
Hailstones fall fast… really fast
The bigger the stones, the faster they fall. Hail often falls so fast that it doesn’t really lose a lot of mass between when it leaves the thundercloud and when it reaches the ground. The speed at which hail is falling when it hits the ground is often referred to as terminal velocity, and this speed varies depending on the size of the hailstone. A hailstone that is about 1 centimeter in diameter has a terminal velocity of about 20 miles per hour. What about a stone the size of a baseball? This size of hail can hit the ground at a walloping 100 miles per hour. To put that into perspective, the fastest fastball baseball pitch ever recorded was clocked at 105.1 miles per hour. So if you ever find yourself stuck in a hailstorm of any proportions, please take cover.
There is a place called “Hail Alley”
You’ve probably heard of Tornado Alley, where tornadoes frequently occur, but did you know there is a Hail Alley as well? We talked above about how hail forms in thunderstorms. It would follow that the areas that receive the most hail are places that have the most thunderstorms – like Florida. However, Colorado, Nebraska, and Wyoming report the most hailstorms, and the region where these states meet is called Hail Alley. This is because these states have high elevations where parts of the atmosphere that remain below freezing temperatures are closer to the ground, meaning the hail is more likely to stay frozen as it travels to the earth. Internationally, China, Italy, Russia, and India also receive large amounts of hail storms each year.
You can tell how many times a hailstone circulated a thundercloud by cutting it in half
You’ve probably heard about tree trunks having rings inside that help you determine how old the tree is, but did you know that if you cut a hailstone in half, you can also see rings in the cross-section. These rings form when new layers of ice freeze on the hailstone, and usually alternate between clear and milky white. Scientists believe that the clear layers occur when the stone is at the lower end of the thundercloud where the temperature is slightly higher. This makes the water freeze more slowly and appears clear, just like when you make ice cubes in your freezer at home. The milky layers are thought to form when the hailstone is at the top of the cloud where temperatures are well below freezing. This means that water droplets freeze almost immediately upon contact with the hailstone, creating white air bubbles.
According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urband Development, while you may not be able to eliminate all mold spores from a home, but you can take the following steps to prevent and get rid of mold. Prevent: keep your house clean and dry following steps to prevent and get rid of mold.
¦ Fix water problems such as roof leaks, wet basements, and leaking pipes or faucets.
¦ Make sure your home is well ventilated and always use ventilation fans in bathrooms and kitchens.
¦ If possible, keep humidity in your house below 50% by using an air conditioner or dehumidifier.
¦ Avoid carpeting in kitchens, bathrooms, and basements. Dry floor mats regularly. Identify: find mold that might be growing in your home.
¦ Search for areas that have a damp or moldy smell, especially in basements, kitchens, and bathrooms.
¦ Look for water stains or colored, fuzzy growth on and around ceilings, walls, floors, window sills and pipes.
¦ Search behind and underneath materials such as carpeting, furniture, or stored items.
¦ Inspect kitchens, bathrooms, and basements for standing water, water stains, and patches of out-of-place color.
Respond: fix any water problems immediately and clean or remove wet materials, furnishings, or mold. ¦ Clean up spills or floods within one day.
¦ Dry all surfaces and fix the problem or leak to prevent further damage.
¦ Install a dehumidifier where there is high humidity.
¦ Replace contaminated components, such as drywall and insulation.
¦ Clean mold off non-porous surfaces with a weak solution of bleach and water.
¦ Throw away moldy materials that cannot be cleaned, such as carpet, upholstered furniture, drywall, and floorboards.
¦ To clean mold, contact us today at 508-370-4400. SERVPRO of Framingham understands mold and mold growth and has the training and expertise to remediate the mold in your home or business.
Every Minute Counts in Getting Companies Back to Business
Businesses will always be susceptible to fire, water, or natural disasters. In best case scenarios, the damage may be minor, however after a devastating storm, the damage may be severe. Subsequently disrupting business operations for days, weeks, or even months.
Every day that the business is closed, revenue decreases, while expenses remain the same. Additionally, there is the increased risk that if business is disrupted for an extended period of time, customers may choose a competitor for future needs. That is why it is essential that business owners and property owners throughout the Metro West area prepare for the worst-case scenario. In today’s competitive economy, a business simply cannot be over prepared for a catastrophic event.
A quick and thorough restoration of your property after a flood, fire, or other damage will help you get back to business, helping to secure your future and the loyalty of your valued customers.
While it may be tempting to save money by doing the restoration yourself, the truth is that you can lose more revenue and incur greater costs by doing so. SERVPRO of Framingham, serves business owners and property managers across the metro west area. Our team is highly trained, equipped with the best tools, and is faster to any size disaster to help you keep your business moving forward.
We can work directly with your insurance company, freeing up your time to contact your employees, tenants, customers, and vendors. It is our goal to make the process of water damage restoration in your property as easy on you as possible. Professional water damage restoration helps to ensure that mold infestations don’t affect hidden areas of your property requiring mold remediation and repair. Our team uses industrial dehumidifying fans to bring humidity levels back to normal levels after a flood, leaky roof, broken water pipe, or other water damage has affected your business.
SERVPRO of Framingham is ready to respond 24 hours a day when disaster strikes your commercial property. Rely on us to do what we do best – clean commercial properties throughout our surrounding communities after water, fire, smoke, and storm damage occurs. That allows you to do what you are best at – growing your business and serving your customers. Call us anytime, our water damage restoration technicians, applied structural drying technicians, and our upholstery and fabric cleaning team will respond quickly to any disaster that strikes your commercial property.
There once was a time when you rarely heard about a tornado threat in Massachusetts. These frightening and sometimes deadly storms were rarely on any New Englander's radar.
However, according to Weather.com, tornado outbreaks have been producing more tornadoes and more deaths in recent years, according to a new study.
Published in the online journal Nature Communications, the findings revealed tornado "clusters" are more dangerous now than they've been since at least 1954. Responsible for 79 percent of tornado fatalities in the eastern two-thirds of the U.S., these outbreaks often leave damage totals in the billions, the study also found.
"These discoveries suggest that the risks from tornado outbreaks are rising far faster than previously recognized," Joel Cohen, a mathematical population biologist and head of the Laboratory of Populations at Rockefeller University in New York and Columbia's Earth Institute, told Live Science.
Using NOAA tornado records from 1954 to 2014, the scientists studied events when at least six tornadoes rated EF1 or higher were spawned in a 6-hour span. In calculating the average number of tornadoes spawned by each of these clusters, the findings revealed an average of 15 twisters per outbreak from 2004 to 2014. In the 1950s, the average was just 10.
April and May tends to be New England’s rainy season. Will your h home be safe during a heavy downpour? Here is what SERVPRO of Framingham recommends you can do to help protect your home from rainwater damage.
> Maintain your roof. Neglecting the care of your roof could lead to some serious damage when the rain comes. Inspect your roof for damaged, missing, or loose shingles. Keep in mind that roods have a lifespan of 20-30 years.
> Seal windows, skylights and doors. If windows and doors are not properly sealed, water can seep in through the cracks. Inspect the exterior of your home for any cracks. They can be sealed with caulking or with sprayable insulating foam.
> Maintain your homes's exterior finish. Water may be able to enter your home through holes in your exterior walls, resulting in mold, peeling paint, or discoloration. Repaint and repair exterior areas as needed.
> Ensure proper drainage. If water isn't properly diverted away from the home, the foundation could possibly be at risk. Make sure that there is no standing water available.
> Clean your gutters. They should be free of any debris. Blocked gutters cause the water to flow down the side of your house and collect at the base.
> Check your downspout. Downspouts should extend to at least two or three feet from the house. If it doesn't extend far enough, then it could actually be channeling the water directly into a puddle at the base of your house.
When disaster strikes an education facility it can disrupt the learning environment, costing students and their educators valuable time and resources. Cleaning up the aftermath of a flood, fire, storm or other tragic event requires an efficient, timely response. Whether you have a small school building or a higher education campus, SERVPROof Framingham professionals will work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area so that normal operations can resume while we restore your facility.
Types of Facilities:
Early Childhood - Preshool and Nursery Schools
Primary - Elementary and Middle Schools
Secondary - High school and Academies
Higher Education - College and Universities
Athletics - Gymnasium, Sports Complex and Stadiums
Our professionals are available 24-7/365 to help remediate any damage, regardless of the cause, scale of the loss, or the size of your facility.
Have an emergency at your educationfacility? – CallSERVPRO of Framingham: (508) 370 4400
Insurance companies may not cover all mold damages which is why it is a good idea to contact your provider. Whether mold is covered under your insurer is something that varies from policy to policy. Occasionally it will specifically state whether they do or don't cover removal of mold. Others will only pay for removal but not testing despite the fact that tests may be necessary to discover if there is mold in the first place. In many cases they will only cover part of the removal process or you can pay extra to add mold to your policy.
Does the Cause Affect the Coverage?
Yes, in many cases the coverage will depend on the cause of the mold. If the mold is caused by something covered by your policy such as a pipe burst, which is covered by insurance, they are more likely to cover removal than if it is caused by neglect of home maintenance.
Water Damage From Flooding
After a flood, it is very common for mold to appear. If your insurance does not cover flooding then there is a good chance that the mold wont be covered either. If you live in a flood prone location it may be a good idea to purchase flood insurance and check if that would cover mold due to a flood as well.
Roof Leaks
Generally, roof leaks are not covered in insurance policies, therefore you will most likely get no coverage for mold as a result. If the roof leak, however, is caused by a falling tree which causes a leak, there is a good chance you will be covered.
Broken Pipes
Homeowners insurance does not typically cover leaky pipes, but often will cover a burst pipe. Again, if they cover the cause it is more likely that they would cover the mold as a result.
Water Damage Following a Fire
Homeowners insurance almost always covers fires. The thing that many people neglect to think about is the water used to put out that fire. This can lead to mold damages which most likely will be covered.
Remediation
Here at SERVPRO, we have trained crew members to help efficiently and completely remove the mold from your house and help work with you to solve the cause of your problems.
Some of the biggest issues associatedwith fire damage don'tcome directly from the flames.The heat and water vapor from combustion can cause severe damage. There is also the smoke and soot from the fire that can cause lasting problems to your home. They contain toxic chemicals and also have a smell that lasts.
Plastics and other synthetic materials can leave behind harmful chemicals that are dangerous to inhale.Wood smoke is usually the largest contributor to smoke in the building. It contains methane, carbon monoxide, benzene, sulfur dioxide, formaldehyde, formic acid, acetic acid, and traces of heavy metals. This combination of chemicals is quite hazardous and can cause major problems for anyone who inhales or comes in contact with the smoke or residue left behind. The smoke and soot can cover almost every surface in the house even in places that were not directly adjacent to the fire, traveling either through air vents or wall cavities.
Removing smoke and sot requires the proper machinery and expertise.Here atSERVPRO of Framingham we have all of the machinery and expertise you would need. Our certified professionals have been working with people in need of help for years.
It may seem like life will never be the same following a disastrous fire. With the help of our technicians we can get you back on track. Let us make it "Like it never even happened."
Did you know that 40 years ago you had about 17 mins. to get out of your house during a fire?
Now you have have about 3 mins. This is due to the synthetic materials, furniture and construction materials that we use.
Fire spreads faster than ever. Having your door closed can save your life. It gives you more time to find a way out before the room fills with smoke or more time to be rescued.
Having the door closed slows down the smoke, hear and fire itself.
One concern that people had with having the door was that they wouldn't be able to hear the alarm. The difference, in one study, showed that there was only a 17 decimal difference between the door closed and opened. It was still loud enought to hear the alarm in the room with the door closed.
Along with the alarm, having the door closed can save your life.
According to Ready.gov, the extent of destruction caused by tornadoes depends on the tornado’s intensity, size, path, time of day, and amount of time it is on the ground. Wind from tornadoes can reach more than 300 miles per hour, and damage paths can be more than 1 mile wide and 50 miles long. Wind from tornadoes can destroy buildings and trees, transform debris into deadly projectiles, and roll vehicles.
Know the Facts!
They may strike quickly, with little or no warning.
They may appear nearly transparent until dust and debris are picked up or a cloud forms in the funnel.
The average tornado moves Southwest to Northeast, but tornadoes have been known to move in any direction.
Tornadoes can accompany tropical storms and hurricanes as they move onto land.
Waterspouts are tornadoes that form over water.
Know the Difference!
Tornado Watch - Tornadoes are possible. When there is a Watch, move to be near enough to a shelter or sturdy building to be able to get there quickly in a few minutes if there is a Warning or if you see signs of a tornado approaching. Remain alert for approaching storms. Watch the sky and stay tuned to NOAA Weather Radio, commercial radio or television for information.
Tornado Warning - A tornado has been sighted or indicated by weather radar. Take shelter immediately
Floods can be caused by a variety of things and you will want to implement these practices to ensure the safety of you and your home, as well as having the best outcome with your insurance.
Avoid Risks
If you had to evacuate, make sure it is safe before you return. Check for any warping, cracked foundations, or other structural damage before entering the home. You may also want to speak to your utility companies to be sure it is safe from things such as electric or gas.
Health
The water that is now in your home could be contaminated by sewage. It is recommended that you wear waist high waders or waterproof boots that come waist high. Also, dispose of any food that comes in contact with the water.
Take Pictures
Before doing anything to your home after a flood be sure to take photos or videos of your home to prove the damage to your insurance company.
Contact your insurance provider
Make sure you have your insurance company's phone number in case you experience a flood. Let your insurance representative know the extent of the damage to your home and of any repairs you wish to make.
Clean Up
This is where SERVPRO steps in. We will help remove water from your house and afterwards mitigate mold so that there are no long lasting negative effect on you or your house.
You can scrape snow from the roof whenever it falls, using a snow rake from below or a broom or plastic shovel from above. Take Caution, especially when on the roof. It is best to hire someone who knows how to use a safety line.
Replace your shingle roof with standing seam or other metal roof. Or you can replace the bottom three feet or so of your shingle roof with a wide metal drip edge. Always install a water-repellent membrane under any new roofing.
NOTE: If your roof is not very steep, an ice dam can still form on metal roofing and drip edges.
DEALING WITH EXISTING ICE DAMS
1. Remove the ice dam by breaking it free in small chucks. Do NOT use an ax or other sharp as it can rip the shingles. Instead, gently tap with a blunt mallet. Even if you do it safely, the chunks of ice can take pieces of shingle with them.
2. Clear out gutters and downspouts. Again, this is ladder work and an easy way to damage either plastic or metal gutters and spouts.
3. Melt troughs through the ice dam with calcium chloride ice melter. Never use rock salt. It will damage paint, metals, and plants beneath the eave and wherever the salty water drains.
A good trough-maker is a tube of cloth (a leg from an old pair of panty hose works well). Fill it with calcium chloride, tie off the top, and lay it vertically across the ice dam. It will slowly melt its way down through the dam, clearing a path for the underlying water to flow free.
WHAT DAMAGE DO ICE DAMS CAUSE?
When an ice dam gets big enough, melted water backs up behind it and seeps underneath the shingles. Eventually, it will drip into the insulation and down into the ceilings and exterior walls beneath the eave, ruining sheetrock and paint. If the ice dam breaks free, it can pull shingles and gutters off with it, and it will damage anything it falls on: shrubs, windowsills, cars, pets, and people. If the roof sheathing stays wet, it can form mildew and start to rot.
That's where SERVPRO of Framingham comes to help. We can't prevent the ice damming from happening, but we can help you take care of the damages that it can cause.
Thankfully asbestos used in construction and manufacturing for the most part, is a material of the past. However many buildings today still retain traces or even large quantities of asbestos. Particularly in older buildings, testing for and identifying this asbestos is an important job, but one that is unfortunately neglected by many business owners. Failing to test for asbestos when making renovations or restorations to a building can cause long-term negative health effects for restoration professionals, customers, and even yourself, creating a legal and financial disaster large enough to ruin most businesses. There are specific Federal regulations mandated by the EPA regarding renovating buildings, and asbestos abatement. SERVPRO of Framingham provides certified asbestos testing to ensure the safety of our technicians and your customers alike.
Asbestos testing for a business is not only advisable for practical reasons, but also for legal ones. Failing to test for asbestos can lead to steep fines and regulatory penalties, regardless of whether or not the substance is present. OSHA has explicit guidelines in place regarding demolition or renovations of commercial structures, especially schools, and other municipal buildings. Furthermore, if a customer or employee gets sick as a result of untested asbestos, you may be at risk of a costly and difficult lawsuit. Federal and state authorities alike take this process seriously, which is why it is always recommended to hire a certified company like SERVPRO to complete the task.
Health Reasons In addition to laws on the subject, testing for asbestos should be a major consideration for your health. Asbestos can cause many negative health effects, some of which can shorten your lifespan or lead to long-term illness. Asbestos is a known carcinogen.The longer you are exposed to it, the more likely many of these side effects are to manifest, meaning that valued employees and regular customers may also be at risk. Just as the removal of mold growth can help to avoid a medical emergency in your business, so too can asbestos testing prevent a host of serious medical issues.
SERVPRO of Framingham is certified in asbestos testing and guarantees a fast and efficient process for your business. Call us today for our services or a quote.
If you see visible mold, do not disturb it. You can inadvertently spread the mold infestation throughout your home. When mold is disturbed, the mold can release microscopic mold spores which become airborne and can circulate inside your home.
Stay out of affected areas.
Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
Contact SERVPRO of Framingham for mold remediation services.
Don’t touch or disturb the mold.
Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.
Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself.
Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.
SERVPRO of Framingham specializes in mold cleanup and restoration. It is the a cornerstone of our business. Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.
An average of 75 people have died in the U.S. from flash floods each year from 2004-2013, according to the National Weather Service. That's more than double the average death toll from lightning
Almost two of every three U.S. flash flood deaths from 1995-2010, occurred in vehicles, according to Dr. Greg Forbes, severe weather expert for The Weather Channel.
The single worst decision you can make in a flash flood is driving your vehicle into floodwaters of unknown depth.
It's easy to misjudge the depth of floodwater, particularly at night. Sometimes the bridge or road masked by flood water may have been undermined or completely washed out.
In some cases, the flash flood event occurs over such a localized area, say one part of one county or city, that driving conditions may go from dry roads to high water in a matter of a few miles. Only 2 feet of water can float a large vehicle or even a bus, therefore you should never drive through flooded roads If you come upon water standing on the road turn around and go back the way you came, do not cross over because you don't know exactly how deep the water is.
Furthermore, just 6 inches of rapidly moving flood water can knock a person down and carry them away.
Always heed warning and seek shelter when your area will be affected by torrential rains.
Very few people realize thedanger ofclothes dryer fires. However, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, there are an estimated annual 15,500 fires, 10 deaths and 10 injuries due to clothes dryer fires. Several hundred people a year are also subjected to carbon monoxide poisoning from improper dryervent setups. The financial costs come to nearly $100,000,000 per year. In some cases faulty appliances are to blame, but many fires can be prevented with proper dryer venting. Lint accumulation and reduced airflow feed on each other to provide conditions ripe for a fire. Lint is a highly combustible material, which, interestingly enough, is one of the ingredients in a recipe for home-made fire starters. A number of dryer vent problems contribute to this.
Here are several important steps you can take to keep this from happening to you
Clean your lint screen.Always clean your lint screen right before you push the start button forEVERY LOAD! Even if there is just a small amount of lint on the screen, clean it anyway. This is a good habit to get into.
Check your vent hose.Make sure your vent hose is in good shape. If you have the white plastic vent hose, replace it now! It is not safe and has been outlawed. Use the aluminum type vent hose and make sure the length is as short as possible and not crushed or kinked.
Clean your vent line regularly.It's very important that the vent line (from the wall behind the dryer to the outside flap) is not restricted or clogged up with lint. This greatly increases your chance of a dryer fire. If you are unable to clean out this line yourself, call a professional. Many Chimney Sweep companies offer this service.
Keep the area around the dryer clean.In the event that your dryer does have a lint fire, don't give it more fuel to destroy your home. Make sure there are no articles of clothing, boxes, cleaning supplies, or anything else behind or around the dryer. You should also keep things off the top of the dryer.
Clean the lint out of the inside of the dryer regularly.Your dryer needs to be opened up and vacuumed out periodically. Most dryers today are not easily accessible for the homeowner. Unless you know how to take your dryer apart and put it back together, you'll need a technician to do this. Any time you have your dryer repaired, ask the technician to vacuum it out for you. He should be doing this anyway as part of the service.
Make sure your gas line is in good shape.If you have a gas dryer you should check your gas line. If it looks old or questionable, you should replace it. Make sure when you push your dryer back into position, you don't kink the line.
Even in the age of technology, one of the biggest losses after a flood or water emergency is documents. Not only is the cost of getting new ones a factor, but the emotional value as well -- loosing favorite books or family heirlooms can be tough to handle. Fortunately, it's possible in many instances to save documents affected by flooding.
Many homeowners that experience flood damage are often relieved and surprised to learn that their treasured books and important documents don't have to be tossed out automatically. By calling us as quickly as possible after a flood, you'll increase the chances that your documents can be dried and salvaged. Here are some ways that we work to dry books and papers after a flood.
Air Drying SERVPRO of Framingham often uses equipment that efficiently air dries books and documents. This process works well for items that have not sat in water for extended periods of time, those made of more resilient paper, and documents with sturdy covers or binding.
Dehumidifying Humidity will break down paper over time, which is why it's important to dehumidify homes with flood damage. Our team will set up equipment to get rid of excess humidity in combination with other techniques to increase the chances of saving your documents and books.
Freeze Drying Sometimes a rush of cold air helps prevent irreversible damage to papers and books, and this works best when done soon after a flood. Freeze drying is an option with photos and vintage documents as well as books.
Vacuum Drying SERVPRO of Framingham has advanced equipment capable of vacuum freeze-drying and thermal drying documents within homes with flood damage. Using these two methods, even older materials and those that are valuable or fragile can have a chance of being restored. Our expert training and a large inventory of equipment offer the best opportunity to recover water damaged documents, photos, and soft materials.
If you've experienced a water emergency, count on the experts at SERVPRO of Framingham to get your home and possessions back in good shape. Whenever possible, we'll dry out your documents to prevent the expense and hassle of getting replacements. For a quote or to learn more about our flood damage restoration services, call us 24/7 at (508) 370 4400
One of the most well-known causes of water damage in your home, washing machines can cause costly damage. After the deductible is paid, the average claim nationally for water damage from washing machine malfunction is more than five thousand dollars.
Supply Hose Leaks Over fifty percent of claims from washing machine water damage can be traced to the failure of your supply hose. It can be caused by an aging hose, a poor connection to the wall or machine, or the hose being pinched while it is installed, causing a hairline break. Intake hoses are high-flow lines and can put out more than six hundred gallons of water in one hour. If the supply hose on your machine is over five years old or is not steel braided, get it replaced as soon as you can.
Drainage Issues And Flooding If there is a clog in your drainage pipe, the sewer backs up, or your drain pipe is not properly lined up, the drainage system of your washing machine causes some water damage at least. Most importantly, avoid a clog in the sewer line. When this backs up, you can be faced withwater damagethat is filled with contaminates and poses serious risks to health. You most definitely need the help of the professionals at SERVPRO if this happens to you since they have the proper equipment and training to clean up the mess safely.
Internal Leaks Your washing machine doesn't have to be incorrectly installed, old, or built poorly to create an internal leak. Overloading your machine on a regular basis can cause valves, gaskets, and bushings to crack or loosen. Smaller loads, even if it takes longer to do the laundry, keep your machine from shaking itself apart.
Identifying Your Leak If you have a leak that is constant, you likely have an issue with the supply hose. It is probably an internal leak if it happens during the wash cycle but before the spin cycle. With water on the floor during the spin cycle or right after the machine turns off, you probably have a drainage issue.
When you discover water in your basement it is natural to think that you have a basement leak; that water is somehow finding its way through your foundation wall. When your basement is unfinished and there is water on the floor and no evidence of a leaking foundation crack or anything else in the foundation wall, what should you think? It is for this reason that many homeowners wonder: why is water coming up through my basement floor or up through floor cracks?
Ground waterunder your basement floor is oftenunder tremendous pressure caused by a risingwater table, the height of which is affected by several common factors such as:
How much and how often it has rained;
The type of soil around the home;
The hydrological conditions around the property;
How fast the snow melted; and
If the downspouts for your eavestroughs are directed into the weeping tile.
All of those factors can cause a rapid local rise in the water table; consequently, a lot of water can enter your basement from beneaththe floor in a very short period of time.
Other causes of a high water table and seepage into thebasement
Sump Pump Failure– If your sump pump isn't working then you aren't draining water at the base of your foundation as was intended. This situation will cause the water table to rise, sometimes to the point that the basement floods.
Clogged Weeping / Drain Tile– Depending on the age of the home and other factors, weeping tile can become clogged and non-functional.While complete weeping tile failure is unlikely, poor footing drainage at the base of the foundation wall could result in the pooling of water and a consequential rise in the height of the water table.
It is crucial for business owners to make sure their property is in pristine, working condition, and that’s not just for aesthetics. You must understand the basics of water damage and in many cases why it happens. You can improve your chances of running a business without getting negatively impacted by water damage by following these simple suggestions provided by SERVPRO.
Common Causes of Water Damage:
1. Plumbing issues, old solder joints, eroding pipes 2. Roof or foundation failures 3. Malfunctioning appliances, especially in restaurants, and laundromats 4. Water back-up, clogged drain lines or sewage systems 5. Weather-related flooding from storms or hurricanes 6. HVAC problems, poor circulation resulting in high moisture levels and condensation 7. Fire extinguishing work completed by firefighters can lead to substantive water damage.
Maintenance, maintenance, maintenance will reduce your chances of water damage that was not the result of Mother Nature. But in the event something does happen, call SERVPRO of Framingham and we’ll take care of the rest.
SERVPRO® of Framingham wants to make sure everyone is ready for the new year! Did you know up to 50 percent of businesses that suffer a disaster may never reopen? For those that do survive, the majority have an emergency readiness plan available before disaster strikes. Advantages to of the SERVPRO® of Framingham Emergency READY Profile are:
· A no cost assessment of your facility
· A concise profile document containing only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency
· A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster
· Establishes us as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider.
· Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin
· Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information
Preparation is the key to making it through any size disaster, whether it is a small water leak, a large fire, or an area flood. Having a plan in place may help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive and get you back in the building following a disaster.
Don’t wait for a disaster to strike, call SERVPRO® of Framingham to schedule your ERP (508) 370-4400
Heat lamps keeps our pets and livestock nice and warm but it is crucial to follow simple rules to protect their safety as well as your home from fire damage. The following will help to reduce the hazards posed by heat lamps for pets and livestock:
Use UL-listed heat lamps and follow manufacturer’s instructions.
Heat lamps with guards may provide some protection if the lamp falls into combustible bedding.
Ensure heat lamps are installed in locations where they are far enough from any combustibles to preclude ignition. Remember that wooden construction elements will eventually dry out and ignite from a heat lamp too.
Ensure the installation is secure and the light cannot be knocked down.
Run cords in locations where animals cannot reach them.
Make sure electrical circuits are not overloaded. Heat lamps use more amperage than regular lights.
Keep all combustibles away from heat lamps and ensure kids doing chores are aware of the hazards.
Check the lamp and mounting periodically to ensure it is secure.
If you’ve got concerns about your heat lamp, stop and check it out. That few minutes may save your pets, your livestock, your barn, or even your home.
A popular hair salon experienced extensive damage when their hot water heater unexpectedlyburst.The entire salon was affected, including the main area of the salon, the tanning room and in addition to the spa room. This misfortune was also significant because small business owners cannot afford to be closed due to renovations particularly when their profession is their only means of livelihood.
Water heaters have an average lifespan of 10–20 years, but that can be significantly reduced without proper routine maintenance—substantially increasing the risk of failure.
According to an IBHS study, 69% of all water heater failures result from a slow leak or a sudden burst. A residential water heater holds 20 to 80 gallons of water, which can cause significant water damage to property upon failure. On average, residential water heaters cost only $1,500 to replace, but a leaking or burst water heater typically tacks on over $3,000 in additional property damage, not including any additional living expenses that may be incurred.
The most common reason for a leaking water heater, internal rust or corrosion, often results from a lack of routine maintenance. By periodically checking the water heater for any signs of rust and performing preventative maintenance, property owners can prolong the life of their water heater and greatly reduce the risk of premature failure. Two primary causes of tank rust or corrosion are failing to replace the sacrificial anode and allowing scale to build up.
When hard water (which has a high mineral content) is heated, it creates a calcium carbonate deposit known as “scale.” Over time, these scale deposits build up on the bottom of the tank and create an insulating effect, leading the tank to overheat, which in turn slowly melts the tank’s protective glass lining. Once this lining has melted away, the exposed steel begins to corrode and weaken, eventually leading to the tank leaking at the bottom.
If the pressure inside of the water heater becomes too great, it can cause the tank to leak or even burst. Increased pressure can be caused by various conditions. The most common causes include elevated water temperatures, excessive exterior water supply pressure, and relief valve or thermal expansion tank failure.
When energy (in the form of heat) is applied to water, its particles move faster and occupy more space, a concept known as thermal expansion. Because of this phenomenon, water at 145 degrees occupies more space than the same volume of water at 125 degrees, and the water pressure increases proportionately.
If the water heater is not equipped with an expansion tank (many regions have only recently begun requiring them) or if it fails to function properly, the tank can leak or even burst.
Contact our office at (508) 370-4400. The professionals at SERVPRO of Framingham are available 24/7/365 to assist you in the event your home or business experiences fire/smoke/soot damage. We are here to help you "Like it never even happened."
Only use flashlights for emergency lighting, candles can cause fires.
Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed. Most food requiring refrigeration can be kept safely in a closed refrigerator for several hours. An unopened refrigerator will keep food cold for about 4 hours. A full freezer will keep the temperature for about 48 hours. For more information about food safety visit our food page.
Take steps to remain cool if it is hot outside. In intense heat when the power may be off for a long time, consider going to a movie theater, shopping mall or “cooling shelter” that may be open in your community. If you remain at home, move to the lowest level of your home, since cool air falls. Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing. Drink plenty of water, even if you do not feel thirsty.
Put on layers of warm clothing if it is cold outside. Never burn charcoal for heating or cooking indoors. Never use your oven as a source of heat. If the power may be out for a prolonged period, plan to go to another location (the home of a relative or friend, or a public facility) that has heat to keep warm.
Turn off or disconnect appliances and other equipment in case of a momentary power “surge” that can damage computers and other devices. Consider adding surge protectors.
If you are considering purchasing a generator for your home, consult an electrician or engineer before purchasing and installing.
Only use generators away from your home and NEVER run a generator inside a home or garage, or connect it to your home's electrical system.
For those who have not yet invested in a generator, here are some helpful tips to prepare for a power outage.
Build or restock your emergency preparedness kit, including a flashlight, batteries, cash, and first aid supplies.
Make sure you have alternative charging methods for your phone or any device that requires power. For more information visit: Get Tech Ready
Charge cell phones and any battery powered devices.
Know where the manual release lever of your electric garage door opener is located and how to operate it.
Purchase ice or freeze water-filled plastic containers to help keep food cold during a temporary power outage.
Keep your car’s gas tank full-gas stations rely on electricity to power their pumps. If you use your car to re-charge devices, do NOT keep the car running in a garage, partially enclosed space, or close to a home, this can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning.
Learn about the emergency plans that have been established in your area by visiting your state’s or local website so you can locate the closest cooling and warming shelters.
If you rely on anything that is battery-operated or power dependent like a medical device determine a back-up plan.
Chief Cassidy relieved fire has been contained, enjoys a refreshing bottle water donated by SERVPRO of Framingham.
A vacant home in Holliston was destroyed by a fire the other night. No one was living in the house, but neighbors noticed the flames and called 911 around 8 p.m.
“Fortunately this happened early in the evening,” Fire Chief Michael Cassidy said, “when neighbors were awake, and able to call it in.... Had this been further in the night, it would have been even further developed when we arrived.”
Holliston firefighters were able to keep the blaze from spreading beyond the house at 21 Pearl St., but the home itself was a loss, according to a press release. The top of the home was blackened and filled with gaping holes Tuesday morning, but the windows and doors were boarded up.
SERVPRO of Framingham donated pizza and cider for the annual Holliston Fire Department Holiday Party on the same night the fire broke out. The Fire Department had to leave their party bringing pizza and drinks with them.
Chief Cassidy warned all residents to make sure their smoke detectors are working, and keep an eye on heat sources, particularly keeping heat sources away from combustible items.
Winter driving conditions can be hazardous due to factors such as snow and ice on the road. While it’s important that you are prepared for winter driving, it is also important that your car is up for the challenge. It is recommended that you winterize your car before the winter season to make sure your car can handle the winter road conditions.
Install winter wipers
These come equipped with rubber that keeps ice from collecting on the blades. Just be sure to remove them when spring rolls around. As winter wipers are heavier than regular ones, keeping them on all the time increases the risk of burning the motor out too soon.
Mount winter tires
If you live in a place that experiences extreme cold winter temperatures, it is recommended that you install winter tires when winterizing your car. When the temperature consistently hovers around or below freezing, the rubber compounds in non-winter tires harden, decreasing the tire’s ability to grip the road. Winter tires use special compounds engineered to resist hardening in cold temperatures, providing better traction.
You should definitely have snow tires installed with plenty of time to spare before extreme winter weather arrives. We say, if you can see your breath, it’s time to install winter tires.
Keep washer fluid full
When driving in snow and ice, you may use a lot of washer fluid in an effort to keep your windshield clean. In order to properly winterize your car, maintain a nearly full washer fluid reservoir and consider keeping a spare bottle or two in the trunk.
Pack a winter safety kit
Tips for Winterizing Your Car | Bridgestone Tires
Here are some things to pack in your winter driving safety kit:
The holiday season is upon is which also translates to many candles and treasured decorations.
Always always be mindful of open flames and never leave candles unattended.
For those who celebrate Christmas, is it also important to keep your tree hydrated.
According to the US Department of Commerce, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) works to develop better ways to measure things — like, for example, how likely a tree is to burst into flames. The verdict:much more likely if the tree isn’t well hydrated.
Although Christmas tree fires are still considered rare, they do still account for roughly 200 home fires each year, destroying an annual $14 million in the process,the National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA) says. They’re deadly, too, killing an average of six people yearly.
So how do you prevent your tree from going up in flames? First off, definitely don’t light it up on purpose. Believe it or not, that causes about a quarter of the Christmas tree fires, the NFPA says — usually in January. Since heat plus fuel equals fire, it’s also a good idea keep your tree andnon-tree decorationsaway from hot things like candles and heaters.
Second: water your tree, and get rid of it when the needles start to crunch. Evena flaming book of 20 matches couldn’t spark a blazein a well-hydrated, freshly cut Christmas tree. But just 61 seconds after flames licked the needles of a desiccated conifer, the tree was reduced to smoldering branches.The NIST did the experiment, so you don’t have to.
How to Protect the Outside of Your Home (and Car) During The Winter Season
Clean your gutters and downspouts before cold weather arrives to prevent ice from forming in them.
Spray an ice repellent solution on steps and walks before freezing weather arrives
Check antifreeze levels in cars. Add if needed, then run the engine to circulate the new antifreeze through the radiator and engine block.
Add freeze resistant windshield wiper fluid, and spay to circulate it in lines.
Check air pressure in tires, since cold weather causes the pressure to lower.
Bring in container plants, add mulch around plants, and cover plants that are prone to frost damage. Remove covering when temperatures warm above freezing.
Drain birdbaths and fountains
Gently sweep snow off plants and shrubs in an upward motion with a broom.
Use rock salt, sand, or clay based kitty litter on walks and drives (NOTE: Salt can damage grass and other plants).
Don’t overdo it when using a snow shovel.
Stay off your roof during freezing weather, but once the ice and snow have melted, inspect your roof for any damage.
In the mold world, pink mold is known as Aureobasidium and can be found indoors and outdoors.
Anyone can be affected by pink mold, but infants, pets and the elderly are more likely to experience more severe symptoms. It is important to locate the problem quickly, and have it taken care of in a timely manner.
Preventing Pink Mold
In order to keep the pink mold from reappearing, there are some helpful tips you can use to prevent its return. You can leave the door or window open for at least 15 minutes to let the moisture out. Also, use your bathroom’s fan or purchase one to help dry out any liquid. This will prevent the moisture from accumulating on other surfaces.
Also, wipe down your shower since pink mold thrives on leftover soap and shampoo. They act as food for the bacteria. One thing you should always do is be diligent about checking for broken leaking pipes or any accumulating water. This goes for any location in your house. Keeping the air moving and getting rid of stagnant water is the best way to prevent pink mold.
Halogen Lamps Can Cause Havoc, When Not Properly Used
Halogen light bulbs may last longer than traditional incandescent bulbs, but they have additional dangers associated with them. Compared to incandescent bulbs, halogen bulbs have a longer lifespan and are more energy efficient. Being aware of the dangers associated with halogen lights can help minimize the risks that come with using halogen light bulbs.
Halogen light bulbs can reach temperatures much higher than traditional light bulbs. According to the New York State Fire Administration, a 300 W halogen bulb can reach temperatures as high as 970 degrees F. This high level of heat generation can potentially cause ignition of combustible fluids or fumes nearby.
Because of this, they have been known to cause a fire when they touch the wrong surface for too long. For example, if the lamp falls over and the light is turned on, it could potentially catch the drapes or some paper on fire. Small children have been known to drop a blanket or some other flammable object on the top of a lamp and leave it, promptly starting fire
Various items that were placed over a halogen lamp in a test were used to determine how quickly a fire can happen. Results included a polyester/cotton shirt burning in 24 seconds. Cardboard ignited in 1 minute 17 seconds, and a piece of pine wood caught fire in 1 minute 43 seconds, according to the study results.
As a preventative measure, make sure you place lamps in areas where they won't get knocked over or bumped into. Keep fabric, wood and other flammable items away from the light. Nothing should ever impede air flow around the bulb. Turn off the lamps when not in use, and avoid direct contact with the bulb except when changing the bulb.
Molds are fungi than can be found virtually everywhere whether it be indoors or outdoors. No one knows how many species of fungi exist but estimates range from tens of thousands to perhaps three hundred thousand or more.
Molds grow best in warm, damp, and humid conditions, and spread and reproduce by making spores. Mold spores can survive harsh environmental conditions, such as dry conditions, that do not support normal mold growth.
Molds are found in virtually every environment and can be detected, both indoors and outdoors, year round. Mold growth is encouraged by warm and humid conditions. Outdoors they can be found in shady, damp areas or places where leaves or other vegetation is decomposing. Indoors they can be found where humidity levels are high, such as basements or showers.
Specific recommendations for your home:
Keep humidity levels as low as you can—no higher than 50%--all day long. An air conditioner or dehumidifier will help you keep the level low. Bear in mind that humidity levels change over the course of a day with changes in the moisture in the air and the air temperature, so you will need to check the humidity levels more than once a day.
Use an air conditioner or a dehumidifier during humid months.
Be sure the home has adequate ventilation, including exhaust fans.
Add mold inhibitors to paints before application.
Clean bathrooms with mold killing products.
Do not carpet bathrooms and basements.
Remove or replace previously soaked carpets and upholstery.
If you have any questions regarding mold or have mold present in your home or business, call the experts at SERVPRO of Framingham for your remediation needs at (508) 370-4400.
For more information on mold visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website at: http://www.cdc.gov/mold/faqs.htm
National Fire Prevention Week (Oct 8 - 14) - SERVPRO of Framingham
Don’t Wait – Check the Date! Replace Smoke Alarms Every 10 Years
FIRE PREVENTION WEEK has established to commemorate the Great Chicago Fire, the tragic 1871 conflagration that killed more than 250 people, left 100,000 homeless, destroyed more than 17,400 structures and burned more than 2,000 acres. The fire began on October 8, but continued into and did most of its damage on October 9, 1871.
According to popular legend, the fire broke out after a cow - belonging to Mrs. Catherine O'Leary - kicked over a lamp, setting first the barn, then the whole city on fire. Chances are you've heard some version of this story yourself; people have been blaming the Great Chicago Fire on the cow and Mrs. O'Leary, for more than 130 years. But recent research by Chicago historian Robert Cromie has helped to debunk this version of events.
While the Great Chicago Fire was the best-known blaze to start during this fiery two-day stretch, it wasn't the biggest. That distinction goes to the Peshtigo Fire, the most devastating forest fire in American history. The fire, which also occurred on October 8th, 1871, and roared through Northeast Wisconsin, burning down 16 towns, killing 1,152 people, and scorching 1.2 million acres before it ended.
Historical accounts of the fire say that the blaze began when several railroad workers clearing land for tracks unintentionally started a brush fire. Before long, the fast-moving flames were whipping through the area 'like a tornado,' some survivors said. It was the small town of Peshtigo, Wisconsin that suffered the worst damage. Within an hour, the entire town had been destroyed.
Those who survived the Chicago and Peshtigo fires never forgot what they'd been through; both blazes produced countless tales of bravery and heroism. But the fires also changed the way that firefighters and public officials thought about fire safety. On the 40th anniversary of the Great Chicago Fire, the Fire Marshals Association of North America (today known as the International Fire Marshals Association), decided that the anniversary of the Great Chicago Fire should henceforth be observed not with festivities, but in a way that would keep the public informed about the importance of fire prevention. The commemoration grew incrementally official over the years.
In 1920, President Woodrow Wilson issued the first National Fire Prevention Day proclamation, and since 1922, Fire Prevention Week has been observed on the Sunday through Saturday period in which October 9 falls. According to the National Archives and Records Administration's Library Information Center, Fire Prevention Week is the longest running public health and safety observance on record. The President of the United States has signed a proclamation proclaiming a national observance during that week every year since 1925.
Fall foliage is beautiful, but not when it builds up in your gutters! Take these tips into account during the cool autumn months.
Have your furnace cleaned and inspected annually by a qualified technician.
Keep flammable materials, including all lawn and power equipment, away from water heaters and wiring in the basement.
Insulate water pipes in areas exposed to cold temperatures, and turn up the thermostat during extra cold periods.
Check for damage to your roof, and clean gutters and downspouts to keep debris from accumulating. This is especially important during the fall season to keep leaves from building up in gutters.
Check and repair caulking around doors and windows that show signs of deterioration.
Check caulking around showers, bathtubs, sinks and toilet bases; and make repairs as needed.
Have your chimney cleaned and maintained annually by a professional.
Clean and/or replace your furnace filter.
Clean the clothes dryer exhaust duct and space under the dryer. Remove all lint, dust, and pieces of material.
Check your electrical outlets for potential fire hazards such as frayed wires or loose-fitting plugs. Be sure not to overload electrical outlets, fuse boxes, extension cords or any other power service.
Keep a multi-purpose fire extinguisher accessible, filled and ready for operation.
Inspect your smoke detectors. Make sure there is one on each floor of your home. Test them monthly, and change the battery annually or as needed.
SERVPRO of Framingham is here to help 24/7 with your emergency needs. Call our office 508-370-4400 so we can make it "Like it never even happened".
Our Four Legged Best Friends Can Also Help Detect Mold In Our Homes
Many professional home inspectors use specialized tools such as water pressure gauges, infrared thermometers, devices to detect moisture and some even use mold detecting dogs!
That’s right, dogs.
These highly trained dogs are qualified to detect at least 18 kinds of mold that are deemed harmful to humans. Their training is similar to bomb-sniffing dogs and drug-sniffing dogs.
When a home inspector cannot see behind the wall, their dogs are trained to sniff for mold in hidden places. They alert the inspector of where mold was detected by immediately sitting down in front of that area.
The home inspector can then do a more in-depth investigation in that area, pulling back the baseboard, cutting a small hole in the dry wall, or pulling out all of the contents of the bathroom or kitchen cabinets.
This additional investigation may also lead to spore sampling. This is a process where the inspector pulls a sample of the material, seals it in a vial, identifies it, and ships it off to an independent laboratory for analysis.
Luckily for our fury friends, the mold is not harmful to them as they have the special ability to purge odor and contaminants from their noses.
Another reason to love our best friend!
September is National Preparedness Month - SERVPRO of Framingham
SEPTEMBER is National Preparedness Month, and we are asking you to help your family and friends prepare for whatever may come.
Here are a few tips* on how you can protect those that matter to you without spending a fortune:
Make a Plan. Work with you family and neighbors to make an emergency plan for the types of disasters that affect your area. Make sure everyone in your family understands where to go and what to do in case of an emergency. You can download Family Emergency Plan templates www.ready.gov/make-a-plan
Update Contact Information. Having accurate records for family, friends and neighbors will help you stay in contact and possibly help those in need. Make sure updated contact information is posted in visible places throughout your house and workplace.
Check Your Policy. Review your insurance policy annually and make any necessary changes – renters, too! When a disaster strikes, you want to know that your coverage will get you back on your feet.
Make a Ready List. You may not need all of the items in ready-made preparedness kits. Choose the essentials that fit your needs and budget. Don’t forget to keep supplies at work and in your car.
Plan Your Purchases. You can save money by thinking ahead. Don’t buy preparedness items just before a storm when they’re expensive and supplies will be in high demand. Buy items at the end of the season when you can get good deals.
Shop Sales. Shop at sales and used goods stores. Buy preparedness items throughout the year, instead of all at once, and you won’t notice the cost as much.
Make Sure it Keeps. Store water in safe, containers. You don’t need to buy expensive bottled water, just make sure your water containers are disinfected and airtight.
Request a Gift. We all get things we don’t need. Suggest preparedness supplies as gifts from your friends and family. It just might save your life.
Trade a Night Out. Trade one night out to fund your 72-hour kit. Taking a family of four to the movies can cost upwards of $80. Just one night staying in could fund your Ready kit.
*The best tip: start now. Take small steps toward preparedness and before you know it, you will be Ready!
Build an Emergency Supply Kit
Water, one gallon per person per day
Food, non-perishable 3-day supply
Manual can opener
Battery operated radio and extra batteries
Flashlight and extra batteries
First aid kit
Whistle to signal for help
Clothing
Dust masks or bandanas
Plastic sheeting, garbage bags and duct tape
Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
Hygiene items
Important documents, copies of insurance policies, identification, and bank account information
Cash
Fire extinguisher
Matches in a waterproof container
SERVPRO of FRAMINGHAM - 4 Insurance Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these common mistakes and you're on your way to getting the best insurance for your needs and budget.
Saving money feels good. And shopping around when you’re looking for insurance coverage is a great way to do it. However, simply reducing your coverage or dropping important coverages altogether is like diet without exercise—focused only on numbers, not on results. Don’t risk ending up dangerously underinsured and on the hook for much bigger bills in the event of a disaster.
Following are the four most common home, flood, and renters insurance mistakes people make, along with suggestions to avert those pitfalls while still saving money (we call them, “better ways to save”):
Insuring a home for its real estate value rather than for the cost of rebuilding. When real estate prices go down, some homeowners may think they can reduce the amount of insurance on their home. But insurance is designed to cover the cost of rebuilding, not the sales price of the home. You should make sure that you have enough coverage to completely rebuild your home and replace your belongings—no matter what the real estate market is doing.
A better way to save: Raise your deductible. An increase from $500 to $1,000 could save up to 25 percent on your premium payments.
Selecting an insurance company by price alone. It is important to choose a company with competitive prices. But be sure the insurer you choose is financially sound and provides good customer service.
A better way to save: Check the financial health of a company with independent rating agencies (some well-known ones: A.M. Best, Moody's), and ask friends and family members about their experiences with insurers. Select an insurance company that will respond to your needs and handle claims fairly and efficiently.
3. Dropping flood insurance. Damage from flooding is not covered under standard homeowners and renters insurance policies. Coverage is available from the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), as well as from some private insurance companies. You may not be aware you’re at risk for flooding, but keep in mind that 25 percent of all flood losses occur in low risk areas. Furthermore, yearly weather patterns—spring runoff from melting winter snows, for example—can cause flooding.
A better way to save: Before purchasing a home, check with the NFIP to determine whether a property is situated in a flood zone; if so, you may want to consider a less risky area. If you are already living in a designated flood zone, look at mitigation efforts that can reduce your risk of flood damage and consider purchasing flood insurance. Additional information on flood insurance can be found at www.FloodSmart.gov.
Neglecting to buy renters insurance. A renters insurance policy covers your possessions and additional living expenses if you have to move out due to an insured disaster, such as a fire or hurricane. Equally important, it provides liability protection in the event someone is injured in your home and decides to sue.
A better way to save: Look into multi-policy discounts. Buying several policies with the same insurer, such as renters, auto, and life will generally provide savings.
SERVPRO of FRAMINGHAM is ready to assist 24/7 with any disaster situation homeowners or renters face. In the event of a fire/water/mold emergency you can count on the team of SERVPRO of FRAMINGHAM to "make it like it never even happened." Contact our office at 508-370-4400.
Floods are among the most frequent and costly natural disasters. Flooding often occurs following a hurricane, thawing snow, or several days of sustained rain. Flash floods occur suddenly, due to rapidly rising water along a stream or low-lying area. Learn what to do to keep your loved ones safe!
A flood/flash flood WATCH means a flood or flash flood is possible.
A flood/flash flood WARNING means flooding or flash flooding is already occurring or will occur soon. TAKE IMMEDIATE PRECAUTIONS!
Right Before a Flood You Should Do the Following:
> Listen to local area radio, NOAA radio or TV stations for the latest information and updates.
> Be prepared to evacuate quickly and know your routes and destinations. Find a local emergency shelter.
> Check your emergency kit and replenish any items missing or in short supply, especially medications or other medical supplies. Keep it nearby.
Then, If You Can, Do This
> Fill plastic bottles with clean water for drinking.
> Fill bathtubs and sinks with water for flushing the toilet or washing the floor or clothing.
> Fill your car's gas tank, in case you need to evacuate.
> Bring outdoor belongings, such as patio furniture, indoors.
> Turn off propane tanks to reduce the potential for fire.
If You Still Have Time, Do This
> Move your furniture and valuables to higher floors of your home.
> Turn off utilities if told to do so by authorities to prevent damage to your home or within the community. If you shut your gas off, a professional is required to turn it back on.
> Unplug small appliances to reduce potential damage from power surges that may occur.
Imagine this — Yoko Ono’s former West Village penthouse is an $8.3 million wreck, with warped beams, toxic mold and a rotted roof deck.
Ono sold the fourth-floor pad at 49-51 Downing St. to developer David Blumenfeld in 2014. She’d purchased the penthouse — part of a converted 19th century horse stable — in 1995 for her son Sean Lennon who lived in it for just a few years.
Now Blumenfeld is suing the co-op board for refusing to make “structural repairs’ that have allegedly made the unit “dangerous” even though his adult son lives there.
Blumenfeld says in court papers that the 10-unit co-op doesn’t want to do $1 million in renovations because the repairs would be “a major disturbance to other tenants.”
He believes the problems stem from a shoddy conversion job including the use of undersized beams that have caused “chronic and significant leaks and mold” making the unit “dangerous, hazardous or detrimental to the life” of the occupants, the suit says.
Although every water damage situation is a little different, these are the most common causes of water damage in a home that we deal with on a daily basis.
Broken Pipes & Hoses: Aging pipes, washing machine hoses, ice maker supply lines are common culprits of water damage.
Accidents! Usually caused by kids! Splashing water out of the bathtub and sending a toy down the toilet will wreak havoc, but will also provide a good story years down the road.
Sewer back up. This unfortunate mess is usually caused by tree roots invading and clogging drain lines in their own search for water.
Basement Humidity: The only remedy to hydrostatic pressure and aging infrastructure is to install a dehumidifier.
Flash Flooding: Mother Nature is unpredictable so it is best to purchase flood insurance if available!
According to The National Fire Protection Association, the evidence is clear that automatic fire sprinklers technology, which has been commonly used in structures for many years, is a proven way to protect lives and property against fires. Sprinklers also respond quickly and effectively to the presence of a nearby fire, and function well, without creating problems for homeowners.
Ten businesses located in Framingham Massachusetts, know this all too well, when they experienced a devastating fire in their strip mall this past spring. The swift moving fire broke out at 2 a.m. in the attic, which took three fire stations and four hours to extinguish. Thankfully, there were no casualties as no one was onsite at the time, but the building was a total loss.
The facility had fire sprinklers installed but regrettably not in the attic where the fire originated. At the time the building was constructed in the early 1980’s, it was not mandatory to have sprinklers installed in the attic.
Despite the total devastation, the business owners vowed they will rebuild.
In the United States, an average of 300 people are injured and 80 people are killed each year by lightning. Although most lightning victims survive, people struck by lightning often report a variety of long-term, debilitating symptoms.
Before Thunderstorms and Lightning To prepare for a thunderstorm, you should do the following:
Remove dead or rotting trees and branches that could fall and cause injury or damage during a severe thunderstorm.
Remember the 30/30 lightning safety rule: Go indoors if, after seeing lightning, you cannot count to 30 before hearing thunder. Stay indoors for 30 minutes after hearing the last clap of thunder.
The following are guidelines for what you should do if a thunderstorm is likely in your area:
Postpone outdoor activities.
Get inside a home, building, or hard top automobile (not a convertible). Although you may be injured if lightning strikes your car, you are much safer inside a vehicle than outside.
Remember, rubber-soled shoes and rubber tires provide NO protection from lightning. However, the steel frame of a hard-topped vehicle provides increased protection if you are not touching metal.
Secure outdoor objects that could blow away or cause damage.
Shutter windows and secure outside doors. If shutters are not available, close window blinds, shades, or curtains.
Avoid showering or bathing. Plumbing and bathroom fixtures can conduct electricity.
Use a corded telephone only for emergencies. Cordless and cellular telephones are safe to use.
Unplug appliances and other electrical items such as computers and turn off air conditioners. Power surges from lightning can cause serious damage.
Use your battery-operated NOAA Weather Radio for updates from local officials.
Avoid the following:
Natural lightning rods such as a tall, isolated tree in an open area
Hilltops, open fields, the beach, or a boat on the water
Isolated sheds or other small structures in open areas
In a forest: Seek shelter in a low area under a thick growth of small trees.
In an open area: Go to a low place such as a ravine or valley. Be alert for flash floods.
On open water: Get to land and find shelter immediately.
Anywhere you feel your hair stand on end (which indicates that lightning is about to strike) squat low to the ground on the balls of your feet. Place your hands over your ears and your head between your knees. Make yourself the smallest target possible and minimize your contact to the ground. DO NOT lie flat on the ground.
In the event you experience storm damage please contact your restoration specialists at SERVPRO of Framingham 508.370.4400.
Fireworks: Light Up The Sky And Make Sure Nothing Else!
Fireworks is part of our Independence Day tradition painting the sky on the evening of the 4th of July and all through the summer.
Unfortunately as they shoot upward so do injuries, fires and the resulting home insurance claims. Although your basic homeowners' insurance covers fires, your policy is not likely to cover fires caused by fireworks your family sets off, particularly in states where they are deemed illegal which includes our great state of Massachusetts. July 4th is the one day of the year with the highest number of fires reported according to the National Fire Protection Association. More than half of these fires are caused by people shooting off rockets in their own backyard. On average, fireworks cause over 18,500 fires a year, including 1300 structure fires, 300 vehicle fires, and 16,900 outside fires with an average of $43 million in direct property damage according to the Consumer Product Safety Commissions Fireworks Annual Report (2015). Even if your state permits the use of fireworks, you may want to rethink whether that would be a wise decision. Instead of a 'do-it-yourself' fireworks show, your family could sit back, relax and enjoy the display so many local towns host. And you have the added benefit of knowing your family is not in harm's way.
Summer Barbecue Safety Tips Keep it Fun Not Frantic!
Summertime is synonymous with grilling and barbecues. There is no better way to spend the day with family and friends in the comfort of your backyard on a hot summer night than a tasty barbecue made up of good food, good cooks and good company in a great atmosphere. However it is important we take precautions when dealing with open flames and propane gas. Here are some simple Dos & Don'ts to ensure a safe and enjoyable time. Here is What You Should Do: 1. Keep you grill at least 10 feet away from your home, the further the better. Also ensure grills are not underneath wooden overhangs.2. Make sure you clean your grill on a regular basis. Grease and fat buildup will provide more fuel to the fire.3. Always check for gas leaks. By simply rubbing soapy water on the gas hose and connections, you will be able to determine if there is a gas leak. If the soap begins to form large bubbles there is a leak.4. Keep decorations away from your grill. Summer décor like hanging baskets and banners look nice but they are flammable items and should be kept at a good distance.5. Keep a spray bottle of water handy for minor flare ups.6. Keep a fire extinguisher within a couple of steps from the grill and make sure you know how to use it in the event of a larger fire. And Now For What You Should Never Do: 1. Never turn on the gas while the grill lid is closed. This is a huge No-No as a closed lid filled with gas will cause an explosion when the lid is opened and the gas is exposed to oxygen.2. Never leave a grill unattended to avoid unintended consequences.3. Never overload your grill with fatty meats that drip on the flames and cause a flare-up. 4. Never use a grill indoors, its design as an outdoor kitchen!
The consumer today has increasingly been more aware of the chemicals in their products than ever before. Now SERVPRO of Framingham is offering safe alternatives.
Benefect, the world's first government registered hospital disinfectant using the essential oils from plants. Today their technology can be found in many products including naturally based cleaners and alcohol-free hand sanitizer.
In nature, plants produce germ-killing essential oils to protect themselves from invading microbes, similar to how our bodies produce antibodies for our protection against disease. Benefect is a revolutionary blend of these antimicrobial extracts, particularly from the herb Thyme. Disinfectants typically use quaternary amines, bleach, or even synthetic thymol to kill germs. Remarkably, Benefect kills over 99.99% of germs using only food-grade plant extracts. Benefect is a 'plant immune system' in a bottle.
Kills 99.99% of Germs.
No Label Warnings or Signal Words.
Made from Plant Extracts.
No Synthetic Ingredients.
No Rinse or Wipe Required
Flooded Basement? What type of water could be in your basement.
Early spring brings melting snow and heavy rains, all of which could potentially pose a threat to flooding your basement and damaging your treasured items. We get a lot of questions on the types of water. To help you understand what kind of water could potentially be in your basement there are (3) categories:
Category 1: Known as "clean water" which is clean at the releasing source and does not pose a hazard if consumed by humans. Most of the water that comes into your home will be Category 1 until it leaves its source, either a supply line, an appliance, or melting snow or rain. The water in this category may become contaminated as it mixes with soils on or within floor coverings, walls, subfloors, etc..
Category 2: Water that begins with some degree of contamination and could cause sickness or discomfort if consumed by humans. Also know as "gray water" is typically overflow water from an appliance, toilet, or an aquarium.
Category 3: Water which is highly contaminated and could lead to death or a serious illness if consumed by humans. Also know as "black water" examples are sewage, rising flood water from rivers and streams, ground surface water flowing horizontally into homes.
SERVPRO of FRAMINGHAM - Safety Tips for Summer Vacations
Although we have been experiencing unseasonable as well as unfavorable weather, summer is around the corner. And as you make plans to visit the beach, hike in the mountains, or take a road trip, consider your home’s safety before you go. Burglars prefer to target homes that look empty because it makes the process easier for them. With that in mind, it’s important to make it look like your home is occupied while you’re gone. Along with all the other items on the “to-do” list before you go out of town, don’t forget these five steps for securing your home:
1. Hold Your Mail
A pile of unopened mail and unread newspapers announces to a would-be burglar that your home is empty and ready for intruders. Before you go out of town, call your local post office and ask them to hold your mail. Alternatively, you can even do it online at USPS.com. You’ll also want to call your newspaper service to stop delivery until you return.
2. Trick Potential Intruders
Make it look like someone’s home when you’re out having fun. Here are some ways to outsmart crooks:
Time lights and electronics. You can time your lights, television, and other electronics to turn on and off throughout the day. You want your lights to look natural, as if someone’s home. Avoid leaving your lights on the entire time you are gone. This will not only increase your electric bill, but it’s also suspicious, since most people don’t leave lights on all the time when they’re home.
Hire a landscaper. If you’re going to be out of town for a week or more, hire someone to mow your lawn and trim your hedges, so it looks like someone’s around and doing the yard work.
Have a neighbor park out front. Tell a trustworthy neighbor when you’re going to be out of town, and ask them to park a car in front of your house to make it look like someone’s home.
3. Ask Neighbors to Keep an Eye Out
Friendly neighbors can be an important line of defense against intruders. Tell your neighbors how long you’ll be gone and ask them to keep an eye out for any suspicious activity at your house. If your neighbors know you’re gone, then if they see or hear someone at your home, they will know something is probably amiss and they can contact the authorities.
4. Avoid Social Media
While it may be tempting to share photos on Facebook or tweet about your airport adventures, consider holding off on vacation-related posts. Those you are connected to online are typically your friends, but you never know when your information will get into the wrong hands. A friend of a friend may see your status update and know that your home is vulnerable. Double-check your safety and security settings on social media, and consider waiting to post about your adventures until you get back.
5. Nix the Spare Key
If your home is being targeted, the first thing a criminal will look for is a spare key. He will look in the standard places: a conspicuous plastic rock, under the mat, or above the door. Putting a spare key in an easy-to-spot location is like handing your keys over to an intruder. If you’re going on vacation, think about removing the spare key all together until you are home, or leave a key with a neighbor.
If you take precautions before going on vacation, then you can relax instead of worrying about the state of your home while you’re gone.
Have a safe and happy summer from the team at SERVPRO of FRAMINGHAM!
We can all relate to the difficulty of deciding whether or not to keep items, however 'Hoarding' is an actual condition when a person has persistent difficulty discarding personal possessions. A significant amount of possessions overwhelm the home preventing normal use of the space or even making it unusable. Hoarding brings distress and emotional health concerns.
Hoarding can increase fire risk in many ways:
Electrical wiring may be old, worn, or exposed from the weight of piles. Rodents could chew on wiring. Damage wires poses a fire threat.
Cooking is unsafe if flammable items are close to the stove or oven.
Heating units may be too close to items or on unstable surfaces that could cause the unit to tip onto a pile which could cause a fire.
Open flames from smoking or candles with excess clutter are very dangerous.
Obstructed pathways and exits may prevent escape from a fire.
Also, hoarding could not only impact the homeowner, but, also the first responders to a house fire.
A cluttered home would obstruct firefighters movement throughout the home.
Firefighters could injure themselves from falling piles or even be trapped by blocked exits.
The weight of the stored items, especially if water is added to extinguish the fire, could cause collapse.
Clutter could impede the search and rescue of people and pets and make it difficult to provide medical care.
When talking to a person who hoards, focus on safety not the clutter. Be empathetic, stress the importance of clear pathways and exits for a safer home.
SERVPRO of Framingham has experience with cleaning hoarding homes. Hoarding is a specialty situation and in some cases involves some sort of biohazard situation. Personal protection equipment is a must in these situations and should not be completed by a family member or friend. If a family member is struggling and you need assistance, please call our office at (508) 370-4400. We will be happy to assist you in making your home a safe place.
(These tips are for Category 1 water situations ONLY, which is water that originates from a sanitary source and poses no substantial risk from dermal, ingestion, or inhalation exposure.)
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 home/building, when access to the power panel is safe from electrical shock.
Remove excess water by mopping or blotting.
Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removing lamps and tabletop items.
Remove Oriental or other colored rugs from wet carpeting.
Do not use a regular vacuum to remove water.
Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, and keep out of areas where ceilings are sagging from retained water.
Do not leave books, magazines, or other colored items on wet carpeting.
Even small water damages have the potential to cause serious structural and indoor air quality issues over time. The key to avoiding costly future restoration is to handle every water problem as a real threat to your property. If you have any questions or need help to ensure your property is drying properly, contact SERVPRO of Framingham (508) 370-4400.
The consumer today has increasingly been more aware of the chemicals in their products than ever before. Now SERVPRO of Framingham is offering safe alternatives.
Benefect, the world's first government registered hospital disinfectant using the essential oils from plants. Today their technology can be found in many products including naturally based cleaners and alcohol-free hand sanitizer.
In nature, plants produce germ-killing essential oils to protect themselves from invading microbes, similar to how our bodies produce antibodies for our protection against disease. Benefect is a revolutionary blend of these antimicrobial extracts, particularly from the herb Thyme. Disinfectants typically use quaternary amines, bleach, or even synthetic thymol to kill germs. Remarkably, Benefect kills over 99.99% of germs using only food-grade plant extracts. Benefect is a 'plant immune system' in a bottle.
Did you know that more than 40% of attic fires are the result of electrical malfunctions?
So how do we help prevent an attic fire? Here are three things firefighters suggest you hire have a professional to do:
Have your chimney inspected by a professional who will check the interior and exterior of the chimney, including the part running through the attic
Check the wiring in your attic, preferably by an electrician, looking for signs of damage, cracked insulation (wire sheathing), and exposed or disconnected wires
Look for signs of burning and charring in the insulation and wood
A common mistake is that everybody typically plugs in their space heaters to help supplement their heat. And then, they'll put them on a long extension cord so that they are able to reach areas with less heat. So, the longer the extension cord is, the more ampage it will draw on the circuit.
Another common fire hazard is that homeowners choose voltage incandescent light bulbs in ceiling fixtures that is a higher voltage than required is also a fire hazard. That heat that is trapped within the light fixture goes straight up into the attic and in the wires and essentially cook the wires, starting a fire.
This popular high tech toy have proven to be deadly. Federal officials urge consumers to use caution when buying or using self-propelled hoverboards after one of the devices is blamed for causing a deadly house fire in Pennsylvania.
The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) recalled more than 500,000 hoverboards made by 10 retailers warning that the products did not meet federal fire safety standards. Additionally, the CPSC has investigated more than 60 hoverboard fires since the fall of 2015.
In their initial recall announcement, the CPSC said that the affected hoverboards used lithium-ion battery packs that which can overheat thus creating a risk of the hooverboard smoking, catching on fire or even causing an explosion.
Consumers are urged to check hoverboards to see if they comply with federal standards. They need to look for a sign or confirmation that the products are certified by UL, a safety consulting firm formerly known as Underwriters Laboratories.
With this UL safety seal, it helps reduce the potential fire and hazards and will greatly decrease the probability of an incident. The UL standard has many tests that focus on lithium ion battery safety. While hundreds of models have undergone and passed the strict safety requirements, more the 250,000 hoverboards have been recalled to replace faulty battery packs.
Although mold is everywhere and quite unsightly, thankfully not all molds are harmful to us. Molds are often found in wet, damp places and can vary in color and smell. These classes are similar to risk groups assigned to microorganisms handled in laboratory environments. Mold is put into different categories based on their hazard:
Hazard Class A: includes fungi or their metabolic products that are highly hazardous to health. These fungi or metabolites should not be present in occupied dwellings. Presence of these fungi in occupied buildings requires immediate attention.
Hazard class B: includes those fungi which may cause allergic reactions to occupants if present indoors over a long period. Hazard Class B: These are molds that if endured over long periods of time can cause allergic reactions
Hazard Class C: includes fungi not known to be a hazard to health. Growth of these fungi indoors, however, may cause economic damage and therefore should not be allowed.
If you feel like your home or business might be affected by mold, give SERVPRO of Framingham a call at 508-370-4400. While we cannot determine what type of mold it may be – we can remediate it with no worry and restore your home and business back to the way it was.
It is very common for school districts to be faced with the growing student population and how to keep up with accommodating classroom space for students. Portable classrooms are typically the immediate resolution as they are a low initial cost to the school budget and are temporary fix. Though more often than not, they become part of the schools permanent fixture.
Although portable classrooms are easier for town taxes there are raising concerns about the healthfulness of portable classrooms
The most common problems with portable classrooms include:
Poorly functioning HVAC systems that provide minimal ventilation with outside air
Poor acoustics from loud ventilation systems
Chemical off-gassing from pressed wood and other high-emission materials, which may be of greater concern because of rapid occupancy after construction
Water entry and mold growth
Site pollution from nearby parking lots or loading areas
A real concern is exposing students and teachers to mold and mildew. SERVPRO of Framingham is here to help. Please call us at 508-370-4400 if you suspect mold in your business, school or home and we will safely remedy the situation.
Although they may be known as the mother of all storms when they wallop U.S. coastlines, hurricanes seem to be taking a vacation -- while their more narrowly focused but fiercer cousins, tornadoes are grab the headlines.
With Accuweather redicting a below-average hurricane season for 2017, this could be the year when tornado damage actually exceeds that of hurricanes. Tornadoes, which lately seem to be an almost everyday occurrence, are all over the news. In addition to tearing up the Plains and Southeast, they’ve even reached as far north as New England in recent years.
Hurricane season encompasses the six months of summer and fall, starting June 1 and ending Nov. 30, but tornadoes can pose a danger year-round. Spring is usually considered the prime time for twisters, but don’t say that in Georgia or Florida, which had a cyclone epidemic in January. That month, the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reported 138 tornadoes, a sharp jump from the January average of only 35 a year for the period of 1991 to 2010.
If a storm strikes your business or home, call SERVPRO of Framingham and we’ll respond immediately to your flood and storm damage emergencies.
Hailstorms can damage your business, your car and your home. Although they are easy to spot, most of us are unaware of how large hailstones can be. The size of a hailstone can range anywhere from1/4 of an inch - 4 1/2 inches in diameter. That is equivalent to the size of a pea (¼ inch) and the size of a softball (4 ½ inch). Average hailstorms typically have pellets ranging from ¾ of an inch or smaller, comparable to the size of a nickel. Often this fact leads to little concern from homeowners, however hailstones the size of nickels can be damaging, especially when they are falling anywhere from 8,000 to 10,000 feet at speeds of 120 mph.
During a hailstorm, your house is susceptible to damage with your roof being at most risk. It is important to check for hail damage immediately after a hailstorm has occurred. You should also inspect your siding, windows, rain gutters, and roof to see if any repairs are needed.
When a storm hits your home or business, you need help immediately. SERVPRO of Framingham’s quick response will help prevent secondary damage and help reduce restoration costs.
Flooding is not only aggravating but it is also can ruin your possessions, significantly affect your home’s structure, and necessitate extensive repairs. Here are 6 of the most common causes of residential flooding.
Broken Pipes
Just one water leak can signal major flooding problems in the future — it only takes minutes for a broken pipe to send water gushing into your home. It’s important to be cautious of even minor leaks and to know where your home’s main valve to shut off the water is located in case of an emergency.
Poor Drainage
Not only are floods caused by improper drainage a huge inconvenience, it’s a hazard that can ruin your flooring, walls, and fixtures.
Clogged Rain Gutters
A house’s rain gutters are meant to divert excess water away from it, but if the gutters are clogged with debris the chances of flooding rise significantly. Heavy rainfall and rain gutters filled with dirt and debris lead to a messy situation that can end up costing you a lot of money in repairs. It’s best to be proactive and regularly clean your gutters.
Malfunctioning Appliances
An improperly connected or broken water heater, dishwasher, or washing machine can wreak havoc on your home and flood it with water. Its important to ensure there are no leaks or problems with the water supply to your major appliances.
Damaged Foundation
If your home’s foundation is damaged with flaws or cracking, it can allow water to enter through the floors. A house’s foundation is always resting on the ground, even when it becomes over-saturated with water from storms, melted ice and snow, or other precipitation. Homes resting on good, solid foundations aren’t usually affected, but damaged foundations can lead to severe floods.
The Weather
This is the one cause of flooding that you really can’t do much about, aside from having an emergency weather plan, a good foundation, and a functioning pump.
While some causes of flooding are hard to control, most are preventable. Knowing the common causes of home flooding and being proactive can save a great deal of stress and money in the long run.
While floods are probably best known for causing extensive water damage to homes and businesses, they can also cause sewage from sanitary sewer lines to back up into houses through drain pipes. These backups not only cause damage that is difficult and expensive to repair, but also create health hazards.
Most homeowners and business owners may not realize that they are responsible for the maintenance and repair of their house or sewer lateral – the pipeline between the city sanitary sewer main, usually located under the street, and the building. The sewer lateral is owned and maintained by the property owner including any part that may extend into the street or public right of way. A cracked or deteriorated lateral or one filled with tree roots can allow groundwater to seep into the system, contributing to the possible sewer backup problems.
A sewer backup can lead to disease, destruction of your valuables, damage to your house or business, and can even result in electrical malfunctions. Prompt cleanup of the affected property can help minimize the inconvenience and prevent mold and further damage.
That’s where SERVPRO of Framingham can help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Sewage backup should be considered an emergency and dealt with as quickly as possible. We are the water damage restoration specialists with specific training and expertise to safely restore your home or business.
Did you know that 50% of businesses may never reopen after experiencing flood or fire damage? Of the ones that do survive, the majority have a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at giving you that reassurance that you have an action plan in place for your company.
Having a plan in place not only lets you know how to handle emergencies timely and efficiently but helps speak trust to your clients and employees by knowing that should your business be affected by a disaster, they don't necessarily have to be.
Advantages of having an ERP:
A no cost assessment of your facility
A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency.
Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas, and priority contact information.
Establishes SERVPRO of Framingham as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider.
A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster.
No one ever plans on a disaster, but you can plan for it. Now is the time to ask yourself, "Are you Ready for whatever happens?"
Call us today at 508-370-4400 to set up a free appointment and get started.
If you have recently become a victim of commercial water damage you may be wondering what you can do to mitigate your damages. SERVPRO Framingham is here to help. There is a critical period in which certain actions must be taken to preserve as much of your property as possible and to decrease any health risks when water damage has occurred in a commercial space.
Before you enter your commercial space or any flooded building, you will need to make sure the electrical power is shut off. You should also be aware that during a flooding event, small animals or reptiles tend to seek shelter inside of unoccupied buildings. Be prepared to deal with the discovery of wild animals in your space.
Be aware that your commercial space will need a thorough professional inspection, cleaning and possibly restructuring. Water damaged walls and installations must be removed and repaired, and pockets of saturation should be exposed for drying and sanitizing. Always remember that mold growth could take a few days to appear as it thrives in a moist environment with organic-type materials such as paper or particle board and in temperatures that range between 60 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit. Keep good airflow throughout the interior environment, and maintain moderate temperatures to decrease the risk of any mold growth. It is also important that you let your space dry out before any rebuilding occurs.
Flooded Basement? What type of water could be in your basement.
Early spring brings melting snow and heavy rains, all which could potentially pose a threat to flooding your basement. We get a lot of questions on the types of water. To help you understand what kind of water could potentially be in your basement there are (3) categories:
Category 1: Known as "clean water" which is clean at the releasing source and does not pose a hazard if consumed by humans. Most of the water that comes into your home will be Category 1 until it leaves its source, either a supply line, an appliance, or melting snow or rain. The water in this category may become cotaminated as it mixes with soils on or within floor coverings, walls, subfloors, etc..
Category 2: Water that begins with some degree of contamination and could cause sickness or discomfort if consumed by humans. Also know as "gray water" is typically overflow water from an appliance, toilet, or aquarium.
Category 3:Water which is highly contaminated and could cause death or serious illness if consumed by humans. Also know as "black water" examples are sewage, rising flood water from rivers and streams, ground surface water flowing horizontally into homes.
Water has a unique property in that it expands as it freezes. This expansion puts tremendous pressure on whatever is containing it, including metal and plastic pipes. No matter the strength of a container, expanding water can cause pipes to break. Pipes that freeze most frequently are those that are exposed to severe cold.
During cold weather, take preventative action:
- Let the cold water drip from the faucet served by exposed pipes. Running water, even at a trickle, helps prevent freezing.
- Keep the thermostat set to the same temperature both during the day and night. You may incur a little higher heating bill, but, you can prevent a much more costly repair job if a pipe were to burst.
- If you will be going away during cold weather, leave the heat on in your home, set to a temperature no lower than 55 degrees.
To thaw frozen pipes:
- If you turn on a faucet and only a trickle comes out, suspect a frozen pipe. Likely places include against exterior walls or where your water service enters your home through the foundation.
- Keep the faucet open. As you treat the pipe and the frozen area begins to melt, water will begin to flow through the frozen area. Running water will help melt the ice inside.
- Apply heat to the section of pipe like using an electric heating pad or hairdryer. Never use an open flame.
- Apply heat until full water pressure is restored. If you cannot thaw the pipe, call a licensed plumber.
- Check all other faucets in your home to find out if you have additional frozen pipes.
***If in doubt about any of the above steps or if you do not feel comfortable with the situation, it is always best to contact a licensed plumber.
In the event you incur frozen pipe damage, SERVPRO's trained technicians are available 24/7 to assist with your cleanup and restoration needs.
With warmer weather approaching, home improvement projects will be on the rise. In an effort to make everything look new again for another summer, we re-stain outdoor furniture and prime the deck for a nice appearance at our summer barbecues. “Do-it-yourselvers” take heed! There is a grave danger inherent in using oil based products that you may not be aware of. If you do not properly dispose of the oily rages after use, you are rolling the dice for a potential disaster. Discarded rags left unattended and not contained have the potential to cause spontaneous combustion which leads to fire.
You are done with your project; you toss oil soaked rags without giving it a second thought. What most people who use these products do not know, is that when a substance like linseed oil is left on a cotton rag and left in the open air, a chemical reaction takes place. The rag actually heats up to almost 400 degrees as it is in the process of drying. And believe it or not, there is no spark needed to cause this devastating fire. It is so important to be aware of these products and to always carefully read all the instructions, no matter how small the print, before you even open the container to use the product. You need to know the instructions on proper disposal of the rags, as well as how to secure the container after the job is done. Besides linseed oil, other culprits include flaxseed, sunflower and soybean oil, coal, charcoal, hay, compost piles, piles of manure, paint thinners, oil-based paints are all susceptible to spontaneously combusting.
So the next time you’re ready to tackle a do-it-yourself project or to hire a contractor to do a job with an oil based product, make sure the rags are properly stored in a metal can filled with water and an oil breakdown detergent with a secure lid. Then you will be able to dispose of the closed can of rags when your town sponsors a hazardous waste collection day. This one simple act can save you from the despair of a preventable fire. If you research fires caused by oil-based products online you will be amazed at how easily these fires get started and rage out of control. One example online described a handyman who had an oily rag in the back pocket of his work overalls when the rag dried out by the sun caught fire and burned him.
The 24-hour emergency services provided by SERVPRO Framingham and SERVPRO Newton / Wellesley comes to your rescue when you need them, ready to help using their water and fire damage training as well as their wide range of knowledgeable expertise. They will get you through a difficult experience. Once the fire department leaves the scene, you may be left with a non-functioning business or residence because of water damage caused by firefighting efforts. We have the specialized fire and water damage restoration training, personnel, and equipment to handle fire and water damage and the ability to efficiently restore your business or residence to pre-fire condition.
April showers help to bring us the most vibrant May flowers and we are so happy with this change of season. However, when April showers are more like torrential, relentless downpours we could face a flooded basement and other water damage causing costly repairs. Flooding generally occurs in the springtime as the result of heavy rains that cannot be adequately absorbed by the still thawing earth. Particularly formidable are the flash floods resulting from thunderstorms, swiftly melting snow, ice jams in creeks, and then there is the fearsome “El Nino." Consider if more than one of these circumstances happens at the same time, you have the potential for a catastrophe with flooding waters and raging mudslides.
Homeowners you can take some simple precautions to secure your property and keep your possessions safe.
Elevate: Keep your furnace, water heater, electrical planels above predicted water levels to protect yourself from costly home replacements.
Install check valves: These valves close to prevent the backward flow of liquid and prevent water from backing up into the drains in your home.
Build barriers: Use sandbags to create flood walls to prevent or reduce flow of water into your home.
Waterproof the basement: Use a waterproofing compound to seal the walls of your basement.
Clean: Clean gutters, drains and downspouts for proper water flow.
Purchase flood insurance: Most standard homeowners' and business insurance policies unfortunately do no cover flood damage. In the event of a flood, you would be responsible for covering the full cost of repairs and replacing items damaged.
There is help close by should you experience an unfortunate event with your home or business. Contact FRAMINGHAM or SERVPRO NEWTON/WELLESLEY. We are trained storm specialists who will come in and quickly get your home or business back to a safe and healthy environment. We have the specific training and certifications to handle your restoration needs provided by an Applied Microbial Remediation Specialist, a Water Damage Restoration Technician, and an Applied Structural Drying Technician. We provide emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays. You can expect an immediate response time, day or night.
Although icicles do look like pretty prisms dangling from your roof, they are also a sign of big trouble. This is because the same conditions that create icicles -snow covered roofs, freezing temps and cold winds- can also lead to ice dams. Ice dams are thick ridges of solid ice that build up along the overhang of your house. Ice dams grow heavy and tear off gutters, damage windows and siding, loosen shingles and cause water to back up and pour into your house. As a result you could have peeling paint, warped floors, stained and sagging ceilings and dreaded mold! When a harsh and lasting winter storm hits with heavy snow and extremely frigid temperatures this kind of damage is almost inevitable.
However you can stay ahead of the game with a few simple tricks. Keep an eye out for icicles, check for backflow under the roofs shingles, and watch for interior leaks. Heated cables can also be used to fight ice dams. By attaching the cables with clips to the roof in a zigzag pattern, it will help control the roof's temperature and prevent damage. Or you can place a box fan in the attic and aim it at the underside of the roof where water is likely to leak inside. This targeted dose of cold air will freeze the water in its tracks and stop the flow of water. Invest in an aluminum roof rake and remove snow immediately before it begins to build up on the roof. Another trick is to use a pair of panty hose filled with calcium chloride/ ice melter placed on the roof so it crosses the ice dam and overhangs the gutter. This will create a channel for water to flow down into the gutters and off the roof.
Unfortunately we can’t prevent storms from happening so when you need emergency help because of storm damage, call SERVPRO Framingham or SERVPRO Newton/Wellesley. Our 24 hour service is specialized and ready to come to you for cleanup and restoration of either residential or commercial property. Whether you are dealing with the aftermath of a storm, a fire or have smoke or water damage, give us a call. We know catastrophes don’t always happen conveniently during business hours so we are available 24/7.
We are also ready to help when you need to mitigate mold and mildew from your home or business. The main goal of SERVPRO of Framingham and Newton/Wellesleyis to help minimize the interruption to your life and as quickly as possible make it "like it never even happened."
A wildfire is the potentially deadly catalyst that starts as an uncontrolled fire in a large undeveloped and un-populated area. If the response to these fires is not timely they can quickly get out of control and end up destroying homes and agriculture and killing animals and human life in their path. As many as 90 percent of wildland fires in the United States are caused by human carelessness or criminal intent. An unattended campfire, the burning of debris, negligently discarded cigarettes as well as intentional acts of arson are some of the ways that people cause tragedy. Wildfires can also be caused by an accumulation of dead matter (leaves, twigs, and trees) that create enough heat in some instances to spontaneously combust and ignite the surrounding area. Man-made combustion from arson, carelessness and lack of fire safety cause wildfire disasters every year. However, weather conditions contribute to the occurrence of wildfires as well. Lightning strikes or extended dry spells causing drought are weather related agitators. Lightning strikes the earth over 100,000 times a day and 10 to 20% of these lightning strikes can cause fire. An average of 1.2 million acres of US woodland burn every year. And sadly a large wildfire is even capable of modifying the local weather conditions and producing its own weather.
Summer is coming and many of us will be camping in the woods. We have known Smokey the Bear all our lives and have the responsibility to share his critical message with the next generation of campers. I love the commercial where Smokey comes out of the woods and gives a young camper a hug for carefully putting out his campfire. You can't help but smile. The message is stated subtly but is a good reminder of the detailed instructions Smokey has provided for years on how together we can prevent foret fires. As Smokey advises, keep campfires at a managemable size, allow wood to burn to ash completely, and pour a substantial amount of water on all embers until hissing sound stops. If you do not have water, stir up the dirt or sand into the embers with a shovel and bury the fire making absolutely sure no embers are exposed and still smoldering. One last word of caution from the Bear who knows, “If it’s too hot to touch, it’s too hot to leave.”
Avoid all contact with sewage and items and 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.
However if exposed to harmful waste, OSHA recommends a post-exposure medical evaluation. Consult your local health department or physician.
When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial, contact SERVPRO Framingham and SERVPRO Newton/Wellesley. Our response is immediate and we use advanced equipment and techniques to remove the water quickly. We closely monitor and document the drying process to verify your property is dried properly and thoroughly. The main goal of SERVPRO of Framingham and Newton/Wellesleyis to help minimize the interruption to your life and as quickly as possible make it "like it never even happened."
Even small water damages have the potential to cause serious structural and indoor air quality issues over time. The key to avoiding costly future restoration is to handle every water problem as a real threat to your property.
Don’t treat flood water in unwanted places lightly: even if your basement only has an inch of water in it, or is even just damp, it is the perfect breeding ground for mold. Mold growth not only ruins walls, furniture, carpets, flooring to name a few. Mold can cause health effects. Preventing mold growth is key to keeping your home’s air clean and healthy.
SERVPRO Framingham and SERVPRO Newton/Wellesley specialize in restoring contents damaged by fire, water, or mold. Their expertise and “restore” versus “replace” mentality can help you save money while preserving precious keepsakes that can’t be replaced. They pretest your contents to determine what items can be restored back to their condition before the water damage. SERVPRO Professionals utilize several methods of cleaning your contents, including:
Dry Cleaning - Used for cleaning light residues or to pre-clean prior to wet cleaning.
Wet Cleaning - An effective cleaning method for removing moderate to heavy residues.
Spray and Wipe -Effective for items that can’t withstand wet cleaning.
Foam Cleaning - Used for upholstery fabrics that might shrink or bleed if wet cleaned.
Abrasive Cleaning - Involves agitation of the surface being cleaned.
Immersion Cleaning - Contents are dipped into a bath of the cleaning product.
SERVPRO Framingham and SERVPRO Newton/Wellesley provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays. You can expect an immediate response time, day or night.
Mold is the number one cause of indoor pollution and unfortunately few of us understand how insidious this is. So here is some information you will find helpful to protect the health of your home. Most of us are aware of the obvious places mold rears its ugly head such as shower stalls, damp basements and leaky roofs. But what about your beautifully decorated Christmas tree? Did you know it can potentially release millions of spores causing asthma attacks and an episode of winter allergies?
Unbeknown to most, if you live in an arid climate, you actually could be more at risk to exposure of a stubborn kind of mold that commonly grows in dessert like, dry regions.
Although mold is a common problem that doesn’t particularly alarm us, the truth is that it can make us severely ill and it can even be deadly. Symptom alerts, otherwise unexplained, range from recurring sinus infections, muscle and joint pains, headaches, anxiety and depression, memory loss, visual disturbances, compromised immune system, fatigue, GI issues and shortness of breath. Many undiagnosed ailments can be the result of chronic exposure to mold. Sadly health professionals are not always cognizant of the impact mold has on our physical well-being and may not consider mold exposure as the cause the above mentioned patient complaints. We have to be alert to this possibility and be our own health advocates!
Fungi grows by releasing spores the same way other plants spread seeds. These airborne microscopic spores are not visible to the naked eye; 20 million spores are equivalent to the size of a postage stamp! They can be found almost anywhere and are kept alive by digesting the surface they are inhabiting. There really is no way to rid your home completely of mold but the key to curbing growth is controlling moisture. Just remember the most common indoor places for mold to grow are damp areas such as bathrooms, kitchens, in the sink and under appliances, where the roof leaks, around windows and in the basements.
If you see signs of mold growing in the bathroom around the shower or bathtub, contact SERVPRO FRAMINGHAM or SERVPRO NEWTON/WELLESLEY. We are trained mold damage specialists who will come in and quickly return your home or business back to a safe and healthy environment. We have the specific training and certifications to handle your restoration needs that include an Applied Microbial Remediation Specialist, a Water Damage Restoration Technician, and an Applied Structural Drying Technician.
When you are dealing with this serious issue you want the most highly skilled specialists in the field and that is SERVPRO.
Does Your Company Have an Evacuation Plan for Employees?
On their website, The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) provides important safety information as well as life saving tips for employers to share with their employees should it be necessary to evacuate a building in the event of an emergency. It is worth taking a look, you will be surprised at what you learn! Check it out. https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/etools/evacuation/evac.html
And although an emergency escape plan is not required for all businesses, OSHA highly recommends that you provide an emergency action plan to protect yourself, your employees, and your business space during an emergency situation. Here are some tips:
A disorganized evacuation can result in confusion, injury, and property damage. When developing your emergency action plan, it is important to determine the following:
Conditions under which an evacuation would be necessary.
Procedures for assisting visitors and employees to evacuate, particularly those with disabilities or who do not speak English.
Designation of what, if any, employees will remain after the evacuation alarm to shut down critical operations or perform other duties before evacuating.
A means of accounting for employees after an evacuation.
During development and implementation of your draft plan, think about all possible emergency situations and evaluate your workplace to see if it complies with OSHA's emergency standards.
Emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Framingham provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays. You can expect an immediate response time, day or night.
We understand that time is crucial for both your operations and your patients. Our employees know how to handle regulated medical waste and undergo special training to work in operating rooms and other restricted areas, always adhering to HIPPA regulations. We also coordinate with environmental and infection control teams to monitor progress and make sure that all necessary health certifications are obtained prior to completing any job. Our number one priority is to quickly and safely take full responsibility of your cleanup needs so that you are free to focus on your number one priority: the patients. At SERVPRO Framingham and SERVPRO Newton /Wellesley, our professionals are trained in adhering to the highest sanitation standards.
Our experience in the healthcare industry has given us the ability to provide a variety of detailed services for the following healthcare facilities:
“Rubber ducky you’re the one, you make bath time lots of fun,” Ernie sings in the bathtub on Sesame Street. No, sadly Ernie, rubber ducky is not the one to make bath time fun. Parents you may enjoy singing the song with your little ones but keep the ducky out of the bath water. Pediatricians are warning parents to be more careful in their selection of playtime toys for the tub. Would you hand your child a sandwich made with moldy bread? Of course not. Well, we should be just as prudent when buying toys for bath time. If the bath toy has a hole in it and squirts water, it should remain in the store. Parents have complained that when their child squeezes these toys in the water, the plastic whale isn’t shooting water out of the blowhole but oozing a black liquid. This is not innocent darkly colored water, it is mold. If a child ingests mold, there is risk of illness, maybe an upset stomach or perhaps a more serious problem if the child has a mold allergy. Instead of rubber/plastic toys, give your child cups, buckets and toys with no openings. Completely drying the toys after each use will further ensure safe use. For those things that go into your child’s mouth, sippy cups and teething rings, be aware that they are big culprits too and must be carefully inspected and discarded when necessary.
If you see signs of mold growing in the bathroom around the shower or bathtub, contact SERVPRO FRAMINGHAM or SERVPRO NEWTON/WELLESLEY. We are trained mold damage specialists who will come in and quickly get your home or business back to a safe and healthy environment. We have the specific training and certifications to handle your restoration needs that include an Applied Microbial Remediation Specialist, a Water Damage Restoration Technician, and an Applied Structural Drying Technician.
When you are dealing with this serious issue you want the most highly skilled specialists in the field and that is SERVPRO.
How can we tell the difference between mold and mildew? Often times we mistakenly use these terms interchangeable when in fact the only thing they have in common is that they are both a type of fungus. Given the proper light, temperature and most importantly, moisture, mold will feed on something that was once alive, a non-organic material such as wood, paper, leather, cloth, tile to name a few. Mildew only grows on something that is alive. Mildew is mostly found on plant life such as plants in a greenhouse with poor air ventilation and is also known as a ‘plant parasite’.
However there is a noticeable contrast between mold and mildew when you are comparing size, color and texture. Mildew is a patch of gray or white fungi lying on the surface of a moist area. It can easily be remedied with a store bought cleaner and a scrubbing brush. Whereas mold, black or green in color, can be the result of a large infestation. Typically it is fuzzy and slimy in appearance when on food. In a short amount of time mold will spread quickly, produce allergens and irritants, and has the potential to cause serious health hazards.
Why choose SERVPRO Framingham and SERVPRO Newton Wellesley to solve this problem? With our 24-hour emergency services, we are faster in response to any disaster, big or small. Be aware that a minor mold problem can quickly become a major infestation if left untreated. We can start the remediation process immediately when you contact us. A faster response lessens the mold damage, limits additional damage, and reduces the remediation cost.
We should take care of our homes and families first, making sure safety features are in place to prevent traumatic events such as a house fire. We also need to apply the same passion and vigilance to public and commercial buildings where personal safety as well as someone’s livelihood could be at stake. Greater numbers of people can be placed in harm’s way when public and commercial buildings are rendered unsafe. Although many cases of commercial fires are the result of human error, there are still many other factors that may lead to a potentially deadly toll.
Arson
Arson is the leading cause of damages from fire in a workplace setting, resulting in harm to innocent victims as well as to the dedicated firefighters who answer the call. Often arson is instigated by the owner for the hope of collecting insurance on a failing business. Other reasons include a discontent employee or client seeking some kind of senseless and misdirected revenge.
Human Errors
Besides premeditated reasons, there are common careless human errors that lead to a fire. Common examples of poor judgment in the work place are leaving a cigarette unattended and leaving the coffee pot on. The possibility of having an incident increases with the number of employees in a work place.
Apparatus such as Water Heaters, Boilers and Furnaces
There are strict codes regulating the installation and maintenance of water heaters, boilers and furnaces and with good reason! The price is paid when these strict codes are not enforced and not followed properly. The mishandling of an installation and the lack of maintenance can ignite a fire in a building without warning. Equally important to remember is that storing combustible materials like chemicals, paper products and trash in the same area near equipment is a formula for trouble.
Electrical Fires
Electrical fires also are responsible for many building fires and often are the result of the misuse of an appliance. An appliance used for a purpose than what it was designed for or overloading circuits set the stage for a disaster. Another important reminder in regard to electrical fires is the high cost of hiring the cheaper unlicensed individual to do the electrical work. You are risking the possibility that the electrical work will not be done to code. Electrical code violations are most often committed by unreliable builders and workers resulting in severe consequences.
The 24-hour emergency services provided by SERVPRO Framingham and SERVPRO Newton / Wellesley come to your rescue with dependable water and fire damage training as well as with a wide range of knowledgeable expertise to help you through a difficult experience. Once the fire department leaves the scene, you are left with a nonfunctioning business suffering from water damage caused by firefighting efforts. We have the specialized fire and water damage restoration training, personnel, and equipment to handle fire and water damage and the ability to efficiently restore your business to pre-fire condition.
During the winter holidays we tend to be more vigilant about fire safety but homeowners must be aware of obstacles to fire safety all year and particularly in the cold weather months. In the winter months, people spend more time indoors and more time inside increases the risk of house fires. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) more than 360,000 home structure fires each year which is equivalent to $6-8 billion dollars in damage. Those figures are astounding and you don’t want to be a part of those statistics when these tragedies are preventable. With foresight and good judgement, homeowners can minimize these risks. Take a look at these common fire hazards in your home defined by the National Fire Protection Association and ask yourself, guilty or not guilty?
Candles: Do you light candles and walk away?
While the glow and aroma creates the perfect ambience, candles are best enjoyed outside or used with precaution. Never leave a candle unattended or less than 12 feet from an object. Better yet a battery operated candle is extremely safe, never burns out and gives off that soft glow.
Smoking: Do you allow smoking in the house?
Another reason why smoking is not such a great idea, it is the second leading cause of house fires. The good news, smoking is on a downward trend and with the help of recent regulations of nonflammable household items such as couches, mattress, pajamas, that has also decreased house fires caused by cigarettes. Though ironically the older you are the likelihood you will experience a house fire related to cigarettes increase. Individuals killed in a house fire were 65 and older. Try smoking outside instead.
Electrical & Lighting: Are you confident the electricity in your house is safe?
There are numerous causes for electrical fires; an overloaded circuit and extension cords, an overheated light bulb, space heaters, faulty wiring and appliances. To minimize risk, don’t overload outlets, make sure you use inside cords for inside and heavy duty/outside cords for outdoors. Never leave Christmas lights or halogen lights overnight or on when not at home and consider hiring an electrician to make sure wiring is in place.
Dryers & Washing Machines: Have you checked the lint tray in the dryer lately?
Clothes dryer and washing machine fires are more common than one might realize. The most common cause for dryers are lint trays and cable insulation for washing machines. Make sure you clean the lent screen before and after every use. Double check lines for gas and propane dryers. Vent the dryer to the outside and ensure nothing is blocking the vent. Clean the vent pipe on a regular basis and keep area around the dryer free of combustible materials.
Lightning: Do you know the inside dangers of lightning?
Fires caused by lightning are most likely to occur in June, July and August in the late afternoon. Lightning can also be the cause of wildfires. Stay away from doors and windows during an electrical form. Do not use electrical equipment during storms. Avoid using faucets and baths during a thunderstorm.
Children playing with fire: Do you keep fire hazards out of reach ?
Children the age of six and under are most likely to start a fire using matches or a lighter. Make sure to keep matches and lighters out of the reach of children, teach them fire safety at a young age and make sure children are always supervised.
Christmas Trees: Do you know the dangers associated with decorations?
Christmas tree fires cause an average of $18.3 million in property damage each year. Keep live Christmas trees well watered and dispose them before they become too brittle and dry. Turn Christmas tree lights off before leaving the house or going to bed. Make sure they are a safe distance from any heat source.
Cooking: Do you make a habit to check the stove while cooking and before leaving the house?
Another leading cause of house fires is cooking and easy to get distracted when something is simmering on the stove. Always be vigilant when cooking and never leave items on a stove unattended. Never put a grease fire out with water, instead place a lid on the pan to smother the fire. If fire occurs in the oven, keep oven door shut until fire extinguishes itself. Keep flammable items away from oven and always have a fire extinguisher in kitchen.
Keeping Your Business Open In The Event Of An Emergency
When an unexpected and often devastating storm, fire or water damage affects a businesses, statistics have shown that 1 out of every 4 businesses afflicted will never reopen. Especially for smaller businesses that typically have all of their operations in one location. The Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety has provided a checklist on their website that allows business owners to reassess if they have everything in place in the event something catastrophic could happen. See checklist: http://disastersafety.org/wp-content/uploads/OFB-EZ_Toolkit_IBHS.pdf
In addition to recognizing what the potential risks (earthquake vs. tornado) it is also important for a company to outline not only their backup plan but more importantly, who to go to for help! That’s where SERVPRO Framingham and SERVPRO Newton/Wellesley come in. Our 24 hour service is specialized and ready to come to you for cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage, because we all know catastrophes don’t always happen during business hours. We can also mitigate mold and mildew from your home or business. SERVPRO Framingham and Newton/Wellesley’s chief goal is to help minimize the interruption to your life and quickly make it "Like it never even happened."
David Kurzontkowski, owner of SERVPRO of Framingham that services Ashland, Hopkinton, Holliston, Sudbury, as well as Framingham, has recently expanded his territory and now services the towns of Newton, Wellesley, Chestnut Hill, and Needham. David, a licensed general contractor, has acquired the most skilled and professional staff in the Metro West area of Boston. His professional staff collectively has over 30 years of experience in the restoration industry. While the office headquarters is located in Hopkinton, highly skilled technicians are on call and ready to report to work sites all over the region to serve clients with immediate needs. Both SERVPRO of Framingham and SERVPRO of Newton/Wellesley offer 24-hour emergency services to assist with fire, water, and storm damage, as well as commercial and residential restoration, mold remediation, and on site cleaning services.
Mold in the Environment - Basic Facts by SERVPRO of Framingham
Call the experts of SERVPRO of Framingham to "Make It Like It Never Even Happened".
Molds are fungi than can be found virtually everywhere whether it be indoors or outdoors. No one knows how many species of fungi exist but estimates range from tens of thousands to perhaps three hundred thousand or more.
Molds grow best in warm, damp, and humid conditions, and spread and reproduce by making spores. Mold spores can survive harsh environmental conditions, such as dry conditions, that do not support normal mold growth.
Molds are found in virtually every environment and can be detected, both indoors and outdoors, year round. Mold growth is encouraged by warm and humid conditions. Outdoors they can be found in shady, damp areas or places where leaves or other vegetation is decomposing. Indoors they can be found where humidity levels are high, such as basements or showers.
Specific recommendations for your home:
Keep humidity levels as low as you can—no higher than 50%--all day long. An air conditioner or dehumidifier will help you keep the level low. Bear in mind that humidity levels change over the course of a day with changes in the moisture in the air and the air temperature, so you will need to check the humidity levels more than once a day.
Use an air conditioner or a dehumidifier during humid months.
Be sure the home has adequate ventilation, including exhaust fans.
Add mold inhibitors to paints before application.
Clean bathrooms with mold killing products.
Do not carpet bathrooms and basements.
Remove or replace previously soaked carpets and upholstery.
If you have any questions regarding mold or have mold present in your home or business, call the experts at SERVPRO of Framingham for your remediation needs at (508) 370-4400.
For more information on mold visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website at: http://www.cdc.gov/mold/faqs.htm
SERVPRO of Framingham owner receives SERVPRO award
Posted in the Hopkinton Independent September 8, 2016
KURZONTKOWSKI receives SERVPRO award
Local entrepreneur David Kurzontkowski of SERVPRO of Framingham was recognized with the CHAIRMAN’S Bronze award for outstanding revenue performance during an Awards ceremony at the 47th Annual SERVPRO® Convention. A record-setting group of more than 2800 franchise owners, key staff and corporate representatives attended the convention, which was held at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas from June 26 to 30. “While building a successful small business takes work and dedication, our success is also a reflection of the support and exceptional disaster remediation solutions and training we receive as a member of the SERVPRO franchise network,” said Kurzontkowski, SERVPRO of Framingham owner. “We are proud to accept this award on behalf of our business and our employees, and are grateful to SERVPRO for giving us the tools, framework and training we need to be both successful and a resource to our community when disaster strikes.”
For more information about SERVPRO of Framingham, please the main office at (508) 370- 4400 or dKurzontkowski@ SERVPROframingham.com
Why chose an IICRC firm like SERVPRO of Framingham?
SERVPRO of Framingham is an IICRC firm giving you the confidence that the right people make it "Like it never even happened".
Always look for the IICRC logo!
IICRC Certified Firms have earned the right to display the IICRC logo as a symbol of quality. In order to achieve IICRC-certified status, firms must meet a rigorous list of standards in business ethics and expertise. All IICRC Certified Firms must:
Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.
Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.
Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.
Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.
Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.
When it comes to cleaning, restoration and inspection, the IICRC writes the books
As an ANSI-accredited Standards Developing Organization (SDO), the IICRC has led the way in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, upholstery and fabric cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation.
Each IICRC standard takes years to develop and the coordination of several experts in the field, including allied tradespersons; manufacturers; international, national and regional trade associations; individual or franchise professionals; cleaning, inspection and restoration industry organizations; insurance industry; training schools; contractors; and public health professionals.
These standards are reviewed and updated at least every five years. Many of these fields, such as the water damage restoration field, change rapidly and those who are certified keep up with the advancement of the science and generally accepted practices of the industry.
The IICRC helps keep homes and businesses healthful
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the average person spends 90 percent or more of their time indoors, where levels of pollutants may be two to five times (and occasionally more than 100 times) higher than outdoor levels.
This makes it extremely important to perform regular maintenance inside your home or business. In addition to vacuuming, cleaning and checking for water damage on a regular basis, using a certified technician for cleaning will help extend the life of your flooring and upholstery and ensure that your home or business is healthful for those who live and work there.
SERVPRO of Framingham is here to help with all your restoration needs, please contact our office at (508) 370-4400.
SERVPRO of FRAMINGHAM - Safety Tips for Summer Vacations
Although we have been experiencing unseasonable as well as unfavorable weather, summer is around the corner. And as you make plans to visit the beach, hike in the mountains, or take a road trip, consider your home’s safety before you go. Burglars prefer to target homes that look empty because it makes the process easier for them. With that in mind, it’s important to make it look like your home is occupied while you’re gone. Along with all the other items on the “to-do” list before you go out of town, don’t forget these five steps for securing your home:
1. Hold Your Mail
A pile of unopened mail and unread newspapers announces to a would-be burglar that your home is empty and ready for intruders. Before you go out of town, call your local post office and ask them to hold your mail. Alternatively, you can even do it online at USPS.com. You’ll also want to call your newspaper service to stop delivery until you return.
2. Trick Potential Intruders
Make it look like someone’s home when you’re out having fun. Here are some ways to outsmart crooks:
Time lights and electronics. You can time your lights, television, and other electronics to turn on and off throughout the day. You want your lights to look natural, as if someone’s home. Avoid leaving your lights on the entire time you are gone. This will not only increase your electric bill, but it’s also suspicious, since most people don’t leave lights on all the time when they’re home.
Hire a landscaper. If you’re going to be out of town for a week or more, hire someone to mow your lawn and trim your hedges, so it looks like someone’s around and doing the yard work.
Have a neighbor park out front. Tell a trustworthy neighbor when you’re going to be out of town, and ask them to park a car in front of your house to make it look like someone’s home.
3. Ask Neighbors to Keep an Eye Out
Friendly neighbors can be an important line of defense against intruders. Tell your neighbors how long you’ll be gone and ask them to keep an eye out for any suspicious activity at your house. If your neighbors know you’re gone, then if they see or hear someone at your home, they will know something is probably amiss and they can contact the authorities.
4. Avoid Social Media
While it may be tempting to share photos on Facebook or tweet about your airport adventures, consider holding off on vacation-related posts. Those you are connected to online are typically your friends, but you never know when your information will get into the wrong hands. A friend of a friend may see your status update and know that your home is vulnerable. Double-check your safety and security settings on social media, and consider waiting to post about your adventures until you get back.
5. Nix the Spare Key
If your home is being targeted, the first thing a criminal will look for is a spare key. He will look in the standard places: a conspicuous plastic rock, under the mat, or above the door. Putting a spare key in an easy-to-spot location is like handing your keys over to an intruder. If you’re going on vacation, think about removing the spare key all together until you are home, or leave a key with a neighbor.
If you take precautions before going on vacation, then you can relax instead of worrying about the state of your home while you’re gone.
Have a safe and happy summer from the team at SERVPRO of FRAMINGHAM!
Hoarding can pose a fire risk. SERVPRO of Framingham can help make your home a safe place.
We can all relate to the difficulty of deciding whether or not to keep items, however 'Hoarding' is an actual condition when a person has persistent difficulty discarding personal possessions. A significant amount of possessions overwhelm the home preventing normal use of the space or even making it unusable. Hoarding brings distress and emotional health concerns.
Hoarding can increase fire risk in many ways:
Electrical wiring may be old, worn, or exposed from the weight of piles. Rodents could chew on wiring. Damage wires poses a fire threat.
Cooking is unsafe if flammable items are close to the stove or oven.
Heating units may be too close to items or on unstable surfaces that could cause the unit to tip onto a pile which could cause a fire.
Open flames from smoking or candles with excess clutter are very dangerous.
Obstructed pathways and exits may prevent escape from a fire.
Also, hoarding could not only impact the homeowner, but, also the first responders to a house fire.
A cluttered home would obstruct firefighters movement throughout the home.
Firefighters could injure themselves from falling piles or even be trapped by blocked exits.
The weight of the stored items, especially if water is added to extinguish the fire, could cause collapse.
Clutter could impede the search and rescue of people and pets and make it difficult to provide medical care.
When talking to a person who hoards, focus on safety not the clutter. Be empathetic, stress the importance of clear pathways and exits for a safer home.
SERVPRO of Framingham has experience with cleaning hoarding homes. Hoarding is a specialty situation and in some cases involves some sort of biohazard situation. Personal protection equipment is a must in these situations and should not be completed by a family member or friend. If a family member is struggling and you need assistance, please call our office at (508) 370-4400. We will be happy to assist you in making your home a safe place.
Flooded Basement? What type of water could be in your basement.
Early spring brings melting snow and heavy rains, all of which could potentially pose a threat to flooding your basement and damaging your treasured items. We get a lot of questions on the types of water. To help you understand what kind of water could potentially be in your basement there are (3) categories:
Category 1: Known as "clean water" which is clean at the releasing source and does not pose a hazard if consumed by humans. Most of the water that comes into your home will be Category 1 until it leaves its source, either a supply line, an appliance, or melting snow or rain. The water in this category may become contaminated as it mixes with soils on or within floor coverings, walls, subfloors, etc..
Category 2: Water that begins with some degree of contamination and could cause sickness or discomfort if consumed by humans. Also know as "gray water" is typically overflow water from an appliance, toilet, or an aquarium.
Category 3: Water which is highly contaminated and could lead to death or a serious illness if consumed by humans. Also know as "black water" examples are sewage, rising flood water from rivers and streams, ground surface water flowing horizontally into homes.
Sergio Daros of SERVPRO of Framingham pulls down a waterlogged ceiling in a Framingham home after a frozen water pipe burst.
Posted in the Metro West Daily News:
As temperatures in MetroWest plummeted to minus-12 degrees Sunday, business for David Kurzontkowski started heating up.
Kurzontkowski, owner of SERVPRO Framingham, said the extreme cold over the weekend caused sprinkler heads to pop and pipes to burst in homes and commercial buildings. Kurzontkowski, whose crews go in to clean up damage after emergencies, said his phone started ringing at 9 a.m. Sunday “and then it just hasn’t stopped since.”
“I’m just driving from burst pipe to burst pipe,” he said Monday.
And now, as it gets warmer, there’s still a high risk: He expects more water pipes that froze from the cold will burst as they start to thaw out.
“I think it’s going to get a little worse before it gets better,” Kurzontkowski said.
Plumbers, firefighters and cleanup crews across the region kept busy dealing with heat problems and burst pipes and don’t expect it to slow down for days.
Framingham Deputy Fire Chief Paul Gildea said his department responded to about a half dozen such calls Sunday, another half dozen during the day Monday and expected still more. One was at the MetroWest Daily News after a frozen sprinkler pipe burst, flooding the lobby and newsroom.
“It was a tough weekend,” Gildea said, noting that the Presidents Day holiday made it difficult for people to order parts to fix systems.
Andy Rodenhiser said his company, Rodenhiser Plumbing, Heating, Air Conditioning & Electric in Holliston, was giving out space heaters to customers it couldn’t get to just yet.
“We took about 700 calls over the course of the weekend and it starts off primarily as no heat and maybe some frozen pipes where cold water or hot water isn’t working in a particular fixture,” Rodenhiser said.
The timing during school vacation week was unfortunate, he said, because some people were gone.
“A lot of people make the mistake of turning down the heat,” he said. “Maybe they’re gone to Florida, or away.”
Rodenhiser said pipes expand when water freezes and the stress can cause them to burst. He recommends everyone be alert as pipes thaw and be ready to immediately shut off the water supply if they do burst.
“If something had been frozen you’ve got to watch for it and look for a split,” he said. “When it does suddenly thaw you want to be around so you can minimize damage.”
Kurzontkowski, who deals with the damage from burst pipes, has a rule of thumb:
“Keep your heat at 70, especially when you leave,” he said. “Don’t try to save money and turn your heat way down when you leave. Some people think put it to 60 and you’re OK.”
Other tips include opening up the cabinet doors in the kitchen and bathroom – wherever you have pipes – to hit them with warm air, and properly insulating a home to stop cold drafts from blowing in.
The consumer today has increasingly been more aware of the chemicals in their products than ever before. Now SERVPRO of Framingham is offering safe alternatives.
Benefect, the world's first government registered hospital disinfectant using the essential oils from plants. Today their technology can be found in many products including naturally based cleaners and alcohol-free hand sanitizer.
In nature, plants produce germ-killing essential oils to protect themselves from invading microbes, similar to how our bodies produce antibodies for our protection against disease. Benefect is a revolutionary blend of these antimicrobial extracts, particularly from the herb Thyme. Disinfectants typically use quaternary amines, bleach, or even synthetic thymol to kill germs. Remarkably, Benefect kills over 99.99% of germs using only food-grade plant extracts. Benefect is a 'plant immune system' in a bottle.
(These tips are for Category 1 water situations ONLY, which is water that originates from a sanitary source and poses no substantial risk from dermal, ingestion, or inhalation exposure.)
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 home/building, when access to the power panel is safe from electrical shock.
Remove excess water by mopping or blotting.
Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removing lamps and tabletop items.
Remove Oriental or other colored rugs from wet carpeting.
Do not use a regular vacuum to remove water.
Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, and keep out of areas where ceilings are sagging from retained water.
Do not leave books, magazines, or other colored items on wet carpeting.
Even small water damages have the potential to cause serious structural and indoor air quality issues over time. The key to avoiding costly future restoration is to handle every water problem as a real threat to your property. If you have any questions or need help to ensure your property is drying properly, contact SERVPRO of Framingham (508) 370-4400.
SERVPRO on site to assist with the cleanup and restoration process.
SERVPRO of FRAMINGHAM was called to the scene of a fire that was spotted in the early morning hours by a neighbor. No one was injured. The original newspaper article is below.
ASHLAND — Fire officials say they are grateful for a man walking his dog early Monday morning who spotted flames on a second-floor porch of a Tilton Avenue home, then banged on the building to wake up residents in two apartments.
Doug Duval said he was walking his miniature pinscher Ruby around 5 a.m. when he saw the fire at 25-27 Tilton Ave. It was dark outside and the Christmas lights looked strange, he said.
"When I got a little closer I could see it was fire," he said. "There were 10-foot flames shooting up the wall."
He tied Ruby to a fence on the property and jumped into action.
"I started banging on the side of the house yelling, 'fire, fire, fire!'" he said. "I woke the whole neighborhood."
A neighbor called 911 as the two apartments were quickly evacuated. The first floor homeowner and a neighbor got a fire extinguisher out of the garage to fight the flames, Duval said.
The Ashland Fire Department arrived to finish the job. Nobody was injured in the home and the fire was contained to the porch, according to fire Lt. David Iarussi. The neighbor who helped douse the flames was taken to MetroWest Medical Center in Framingham for a smoke-related evaluation.
Iarussi said the state fire marshal's office determined the cause to be careless disposal of a cigarette.
"The fire would have been much worse if it spread inside the house and the fire alarm went off," he said. "We wouldn't have known until the fire alarm went off."
Fire Chief Scott Boothby said it was a "good catch" by Duval, and the fire was mostly out within 15 minutes.
"Luckily, someone was walking by at the time," he said. "It wouldn't have taken too much more. A few more minutes it would have extended into the house and attic. It was just starting to burn the roof of the porch."
He said a Hopkinton engine and Framingham ambulance responded to the scene for mutual aid. Sherborn firefighters covered the Cedar Street Station.
The first-floor homeowners were allowed to return, while the second-floor tenants were temporarily displaced until a company could clean up, Boothby said.
He said a similar situation happened on Trailside Way a couple of months ago when a person walking by reported a fire. That fire also was determined to be caused by a cigarette, he said.
He encouraged residents to make sure smoking materials are put out properly.
Water has a unique property in that it expands as it freezes. This expansion puts tremendous pressure on whatever is containing it, including metal and plastic pipes. No matter the strength of a container, expanding water can cause pipes to break. Pipes that freeze most frequently are those that are exposed to severe cold.
During cold weather, take preventative action:
- Let the cold water drip from the faucet served by exposed pipes. Running water, even at a trickle, helps prevent freezing.
- Keep the thermostat set to the same temperature both during the day and night. You may incur a little higher heating bill, but, you can prevent a much more costly repair job if a pipe were to burst.
- If you will be going away during cold weather, leave the heat on in your home, set to a temperature no lower than 55 degrees.
To thaw frozen pipes:
- If you turn on a faucet and only a trickle comes out, suspect a frozen pipe. Likely places include against exterior walls or where your water service enters your home through the foundation.
- Keep the faucet open. As you treat the pipe and the frozen area begins to melt, water will begin to flow through the frozen area. Running water will help melt the ice inside.
- Apply heat to the section of pipe like using an electric heating pad or hairdryer. Never use an open flame.
- Apply heat until full water pressure is restored. If you cannot thaw the pipe, call a licensed plumber.
- Check all other faucets in your home to find out if you have additional frozen pipes.
***If in doubt about any of the above steps or if you do not feel comfortable with the situation, it is always best to contact a licensed plumber.
In the event you incur frozen pipe damage, SERVPRO's trained technicians are available 24/7 to assist with your cleanup and restoration needs.
Great news! SERVPRO of FRAMINGHAM, that has been serving the communities of the Metrowest area since 1987, has recently purchased SERVPRO of NEWTON/WELLESLEY. Our dedicated team of highly trained technicians are prepared to handle the emergency restoration and cleanup needs of Newton, Needham, Wellesley, and the surrounding communities. We are available 24/7 to respond to emergencies and disasters for residential, commercial, and industrial properties. No loss is too large or too small for us to handle. Our experienced staff is available to assist you regardless of the type of loss. Our main concern is to make sure we handle your loss promptly and make it "Like it never even happened."
24/7 Emergency Service
When drowning in damage, don't hesitate to call on the expertise of water restoration professionals to save the day in Framingham.
