Labor Day 2020 Safety Tips

9/2/2020 (Permalink)

Labor Day means cookouts, fireworks, and even campfires as people take advantage of one of the end of Summer.

It is definitely relaxing and fun to enjoy a backyard fire with friends and loved ones, but it’s important to make sure everyone involved stays safe.Here's a few easy fire protection and prevention tips:

Remember this list of four Labor Day fire safety tips:

1. Keep a bucket of water close by. On the off chance that something floating out of your fire catches nearby items on fire, you don't want to have to run to get water to put it out.  With water right there, you can quickly and safely extinguish the issue.
2. Don’t let barbecue grease accumulate. Built up grease and food on a grill grate has a high likelihood of igniting. Before, during, and after using your grill, clean the grate using a wire brush.
3. Inspect the area around your BBQ and campfire.  Make sure to keep as many flammable items away from your grill or fire as possible.  Paper plates and napkins catching on fire are a leading cause of fire damage during Labor Day weekend.  This is especially important if you are grilling near your house or on a deck.
4. Completely extinguish the fire when you are finished. Never leave a grill unattended after cooking, and never go to sleep without ensuring that it is fully out.  A breeze can send embers that are still hot into the air, and they could land on your roof or other parts of your home, leading to a fire.

If you happen to have any fire damage to your home or business, call SERVPRO of Baldwin County at 251-928-9625

20 Tips for a Safe Labor Day Weekend

9/2/2020 (Permalink)

2020 Labor Day weekend is here! Whether you are relaxing at the beach, hanging by the pool, or enjoying the outdoors, it's important to stay safe! Here are 20 safety tips from the American Red Cross.

DRIVING SAFETY

1. Be well rested, alert, and use your seat belts. Pay attention to speed limits and follow the rules of the road. Clean your headlights for driving at night.
2. Don’t drink and drive. Have a designated driver or call an Uber/Lyft.
3. Pay attention to the road & avoid distractions such as cellphones.
4. Use caution in work zones & look out for construction projects on the highways.
5. Don't drive too close to the person in front of you.

HEAT SAFETY

1. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, especially if drinking caffeine or alcohol.
2. Avoid extreme temperatures.
3. Wear loose, lightweight, light colored clothing. Beware the dark colors absorb the sun’s rays.
4. Avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest part of the day, and make sure to take a break from the heat...especially if you plan on spending your weekend outdoors.
5. Postpone outdoor games and activities if you feel overheated or dehydrated.

BEACH SAFETY

1. If you plan to swim in the ocean, lake or river, be cautious that conditions are different than swimming in a pool. Wear a life jacket if needed.
2. Only swim in designated swimming areas. Obey all instructions and orders from lifeguards and ask them about local conditions.
3. Make sure to always swim with someone else. Don't push your limits, and make sure you have enough energy to swim back to shore.
4. Never dive headfirst. There's no way of knowing how deep the water actually is. Walk carefully into open waters. Watch out for and avoid aquatic life. Water plants and animals can be dangerous.
5. If you are caught in a rip current, try not to panic. Signal to those on shore that you need assistance. Swim parallel to the shore until you are out of the current. Once you are free, swim toward shore. If you can't swim to the shore, float or tread water until you are free of the rip current and then head toward shore.

BE SAFE IN THE GREAT OUTDOORS

1. Take a First Aid/CPR course so that you will know what to do in case help is delayed. You’ll learn how to treat severe wounds, broken bones, bites and stings and more.
2. Know your groups level of ability in the environment around you. Plan accordingly. Sprains and falls are some of the most common accidents travelers may face.
3. Beware of dehydration. Make sure to bring enough water and stay hydrated.
4. Share your travel plans and locations with a family member, neighbor or friend.
5. Pack a First Aid Kit – be sure to include insect repellent, sunscreen and personal medications."

source: American Red Cross. link here: redcross.org

Coronavirus – What You Can Do

3/16/2020 (Permalink)

Across the nation and the world as a whole, coronavirus is the top headline as everyone tries to comprehend the situation.

Experts are saying the virus seems to be hardest on the elderly and health-compromised populations, while children and young people are not affected as seriously. However, it is important we all do our part to help stop the spread of this illness.

Because the situation is changing rapidly, it is important to continue referring to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for the most up-to-date information. 

 In the meantime, it is important to follow these 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 sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
• Stay home when you have a fever or present a risk of spreading illness to others.
• Maintain a proper social distance between people (3 feet).
• Shaking hands and other forms of social greeting that creates contact with other people is discouraged during this period.

Why It's Important to Have Insurance

5/30/2019 (Permalink)

Insurance Awareness Day

National Insurance Awareness day is reserved for June 28th every year to remind property owners to review their insurance coverage. This review will ensure your coverage is up to date and covers the current operations of your business or residence.

Commercial Insurance

It is important to make sure your business is completely covered for any type of loss that could potentially happen.

Did you know 1 out of 5 entrepreneurs are unsure if they are covered against common small business risks like negligence? A group of small business owners were surveyed and only about half of these owners reported having Theft and Accidental Damage/Loss insurance.

This article has great information about important commercial insurance coverage you should consider.

Is your policy up to date?

Reviewing your insurance coverage might be low on your to-do list, but it is something that should be done annually or whenever there is a change to your needs.

Insurance protects your business in the event that anything happens to your property or employees. You may think you have all of the coverage you need, but you could be missing or overlooking something.

This year on National Insurance Awareness Day set some time aside to review your policies with your insurance agent and make sure you're fully protected.

Easter Events in Baldwin County 2019

4/11/2019 (Permalink)

Wales West Cottontail Express has been rolling since March 23 and concludes next weekend at Wales West Light Railway, 13670 Smiley St., Silverhill.

Every Saturday and Sunday, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., the Cottontail Express pulls out of our train station and makes its determined way across the awakening landscape of Baldwin County.

The experience also includes an Easter egg hunt, treats and refreshments, and a visit with the Easter Bunny.

Admission is free for ages 2 and under. For all others, the cost is $15 per person. Group rates are available. For more information call 251-232-2322; or go to waleswest.com to purchase tickets.

Marlow United Methodist Church will host its annual Easter Egg Hunt beginning at 10 a.m. Saturday, April 13 at the church, corner of County Road 9 and County Road 28.

All children in the community ages grade six and under are invited to come join us for some Easter fun.

Please bring your own basket. Light refreshments will be served. For more information call 251-988-8563.

Silverhill First Baptist Church will host its annual Community Easter Egg Hunt beginning at 1 p.m. Sunday, April 14 at Silverhill Heritage Kids Park, corner of South Avenue and First Street.

The event will include an age-divided egg hunt with prizes, inflatables, candy, hot dogs, chips and lemonade.

For more information visit the Silverhill First Baptist Church Facebook page.

Alabama 200 Bicentennial Pre-Easter Festival will be held from 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday, April 14 at Bicentennial Park, 51233 Alabama 225, Stockton.

The event includes pony rides, a historical Easter egg hunt, petting zoo, face painting, train rides and hay rides. The Easter Bunny will also be on hand to greet young visitors and for photo opportunities.

Admission is free. For more information contact the Baldwin County Department of Archives & History, 251-580-1897.

Easter Eggstravaganza, hosted by The Lighthouse of Baldwin County, will be held from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, April 19 at Garrett Park in Robertsdale.

Join The Lighthouse in support of Sexual Assault Awareness Month in April. Activities include jump houses, pony rides, face-painting, free sno cones just for children and Easter egg hunts separated into age-appropriate zones. A kiddie pool is also available stuffed with Easter eggs for those 2 and under.

Egg hunt begins promptly at 11 a.m. For more information call 251-947-3414. For more information on this and other upcoming events visit The Lighthouse of Baldwin County’s page on Facebook.

Easter egg hunt, hosted by the Town of Loxley and coordinated by The Loxley Volunteer Fire Department Auxiliary and the Loxley Church of God, will be held from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, April 20 at Loxley Municipal Park, 4198 Municipal Park Drive, off of Alabama 59.

The event will include several fun activities for children of all ages. For more information call the fire department, 251-964-6000, the church, 251-964-6604 or town hall, 251964-6444.

Town of Summerdale Easter Egg Hunt will be held beginning at 10 a.m. Saturday, April 20 at the Community Center Park, 300 W Jackson Ave. For more information call Town Hall at 251-989-6202.

The Miracle League of Coastal Alabama

4/10/2019 (Permalink)

The Gulf Shores and Orange Beach Lions Clubs are working together to build a park with a baseball field and playground facility designed to remove barriers that keep disabled residents off the field. The Miracle League fields will be located at 1545 Gulf Shores Parkway Box 159 in Gulf Shores, near Gulf State Park and Shelby Lake. The park will accommodate wheelchairs, walkers and other assistive devices while helping to prevent injuries. For many, it will be their first opportunity to play side-by side with family and friends in an atmosphere where everyone benefits. The main obstacles for these individuals come from playing on natural turf fields used in conventional youth baseball leagues.Their fully inclusive playground will be built with the same playing surface as the Miracle League field. The playground equipment will be designed for everyone regardless of mental or physical limitations.

Mission Statement

To enrich our special needs community by giving them the opportunity to play in a facility that is tailored to their specific needs while, at the same time, providing an environment that benefits everyone regardless of physical or mental limitations.

To donate please click here

Chamber of Commerce

4/4/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Baldwin County is a proud member of the South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce, which was established in 1944.  Their membership includes small businesses, corporations, associations, professionals as well as associate members who believe in the work of the Chamber of Commerce.  The Chamber office is located in the heart of South Baldwin County: 112 W Laurel Ave, Foley, AL 36535, which serves as a gateway to many beautiful destinations throughout our area.  They serve the communities of Bon Secour, Elberta, Foley, Josephine, Lillian, Magnolia Springs, Perdido Beach, Summerdale and Wolf Bay.The South Baldwin Chamber has always been, and currently remains, an advocate for businesses in the region. Their mission is to build and promote a better community, speak with a unified voice for business, be a part of well-functioning business networks and support the free market system.  The South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce produces four major events in our local area each year. Those events are the Chamber Golf Classic in March, the Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival and Balloon Fest 10k/5k held in May, and the Festival of Flavor held in October. The four events are held annually to promote awareness of our local area to both our local community and visitors. To learn more click here

SERVPRO Teams Up with American Red Cross!

3/28/2019 (Permalink)

We’re thrilled to be partnered with the American Red Cross as a Disaster Responder. Here at SERVPRO of Baldwin County, we’re always “Ready for Whatever Happens” and we want you to be too! You never know when a disaster may strike, so it is important to have an emergency preparedness kit ready to go at a moment’s notice.

According to our friends at the American Red Cross, you should, at minimum, have the basic supplies listed below:

• Water: one gallon per person, per day (3-day supply for evacuation, 2-week supply for home)
• Food: non-perishable, easy-to-prepare items (3-day supply for evacuation, 2-week supply for home).
• Flashlight
• Battery powered or hand-crank radio (NOAA Weather Radio, if possible)
• Extra batteries
• First aid kit
• Medications (7-day supply) and medical items
• Multi-purpose tool
• Sanitation and personal hygiene items
• Copies of personal documents (medication list and pertinent medical information, proof of address, deed/lease to home, passports, birth certificates, insurance policies)
• Cell phone with chargers
• Family and emergency contact information
• Extra cash
• Emergency blanket
• Maps of the area

You should also consider the needs of all family members and add supplies to your kit as needed. Suggested items to help meet additional needs are:

• Medical supplies (hearing aids with extra batteries, glasses, contact lenses, syringes, etc)
• Baby supplies (bottles, formula, baby food, diapers)
• Games and activities for children
• Pet supplies (collar, leash, ID, food, carrier, bowl)
• Two-way radios
• Extra set of car keys and house keys
• Manual can opener

Additional supplies to consider keeping at your home or in your emergency supply kit:

• Whistle
• N95 or surgical masks
• Matches
• Rain gear
• Towels
• Work gloves
• Tools/supplies for securing your home
• Extra clothing, hat and sturdy shoes
• Plastic sheeting
• Duct tape
• Scissors
• Household liquid bleach
• Entertainment items
• Blankets or sleeping bags

You never know when a disaster might arise.

Keep your Emergency Kit somewhere easily accessible for if and when the time comes that you need it. You should also practice fire drills with your family and plan out multiple evacuation routes should you ever need to evacuate your home.

Make sure that everyone knows what to do in case of emergency. Whether it’s the Big One, a house fire, or an unexpected storm, we want you to be “ready for whatever happens!”

The Fairhope Arts & Crafts Festival

2/26/2019 (Permalink)

The Fairhope Arts & Crafts Festival

SERVPRO of Baldwin County is proud to support community events throughout the area. The 67th Annual Fairhope Art and Crafts Festival is scheduled for March 15, 16, and 17 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The festival will be held downtown Fairhope near Section Street and Fairhope Ave. The juried show showcases artists from all over the county, including local artist from Fairhope, Daphne, Spanish Fort, and all over Baldwin County. Enjoy live entertainment, exquisite cuisine, and fine art throughout this three-day event. Fairhope Arts and Craft Festival has something for everyone, making it an Eastern Shore staple for more the sixty years. Come out and enjoy the arts on the beautiful streets of Fairhope!

2019 Valentine's Day

2/14/2019 (Permalink)

Still need plans for Valentine’s Day? Want to enjoy a delicious, entertaining dinner overlooking the Mobile Bay?  Celebrate in Fairhope over dinner at The Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa Saturday, February 16, 2019. Appetizers and cash bar with wine list will be available at 6:30, followed by dinner at 7:00. A live romantic comedy, “The Night After”, will also be presented by The Detectives Mystery Dinner Theatre during the meal. Tickets are $79.50 for this unique Valentine ’s Day experience.

Baldwin County

2/14/2019 (Permalink)

Did you know that Baldwin County is the largest county by area in Alabama? Located between the two rainiest cities, Mobile and Pensacola, Baldwin County gets their fair share of rain throughout all 14 cities. Being on the Eastern side of Mobile Bay and joined by the Spanish River to Mobile County, we know water! From flooding, hurricanes, or leaking pipes, SERVPRO of Baldwin County is here to help with all your water damage needs. Our highly trained team has the experience, equipment, and knowledge to make it “Like it never even happened.” We are quick to respond to losses, and make sure to walk clients through the process. From start to finish, we make sure the process is quick and easy for the homeowner. If you have water damage in your home, call us at 251-928-9625!

Mardi Gras Parades in Baldwin County!

2/13/2019 (Permalink)

It’s not a secret that Mardi Gras is a big holiday in the Baldwin county area. If you want to be a part of the fun, make sure to mark these parades on your calendar!

• Friday, February 22 2019 6:45pm - Apollo's Mystic Ladies – Daphne (According to the Daphne Public Works Department, Main Street will be closed at about 5pm as the parade assembles in the Civic Center parking lot for the AML Parade)
• Saturday, February 23 2019, 1pm - The Haven's Mystic Mutt's - Fairhope
• Saturday, February 23 2019 6:45pm - Knights of Ecor Rouge (KOER) – Fairhope
• Friday, March 1 2019 6:30pm - Mystical Order of Miriams - Orange Beach
• Friday, March 1 2019 6:45pm - Maids of Jubilee - Fairhope
• Saturday, March 2 2019 11am - Foley Parade - Foley
• Saturday, March 2, 2019 12pm - Mystic Revelers - Bay Minette
• Saturday March 2 2019 2pm - Krewe of Mullet Mates - Mullet Point
• Saturday, March 2 2019 5:30pm - Mystics of Pleasure - Orange Beach
• Saturday, March 2 2019 6:45pm - Shadow Barons – Daphne (According to the Daphne Public                Works Department, Main Street will be closed at about 5pm as the parade assembles in the Civic Center parking lot for the Shadow Barons Parade)
• Sunday, March 3 2019 2:29pm - Loyal Order of the Fire Truck - Daphne
• Lundi Gras - Monday, March 4, 2019 6:45pm - Order of Mystic Magnolias - Fairhope
• Fat Tuesday - Tuesday, March 5 2019 10am - Gulf Shores Parade - Gulf Shores
• Fat Tuesday - Tuesday, March 5 2019 2pm - Orange Beach Parade - Orange Beach

Daphne United Methodist Kid's Camp

2/13/2019 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Baldwin County we value community involvement. This summer we volunteered and donated money for a kids camp at Daphne United Methodist Church, located on Main Street, off of Highway 98 in Daphne, Alabama.  Our team member John Paul, a resident of Fairhope, set up a tent and handed out water to campers throughout the week. We are proud to help our community in any way we can!

Chili for Charity 2018

3/28/2018 (Permalink)

We enjoyed being a part of the EMI Chili for Charity! Our SERVPRO team competed February 24th, 2018 at Oak Hollow Farm in Fairhope, AL.

SERVPRO of Baldwin County competed in the 18th Annual Chili for Charity event for Ecumenical Ministries Inc. This year’s cook-off was held at Oak Hollow Farm in Fairhope, AL on Saturday, February 24, 2018.

It was a truly great event for the whole family. There was live music from Blind Dog Mike and the Howlers along with a performance by the Fairhope High School Encore Group. MCs were Lori DuBose & Mark from WABF radio. Also, for the kids, there were balloons, inflatable jumps, and a hay ride. Also for the kids (and big kids), there was a bake sale and mechanical bull. Antique tractors and engines were on display from the South Alabama Antique Tractor and Engine Club. WABF radio's Lori Dubose and Mark emceed the event. 

The proceeds from the event went to EMI's various programs that benefit people right in our community. Although we didn't win, we were glad to be a part of such a great event. Thank you Baldwin EMI! 

2016 Hurricane Preparedness Expo in Gulf Shores, AL

6/17/2016 (Permalink)

Yesterday, we participated in the 2016 Hurricane Preparedness Expo in Gulf Shores, AL put on by the City of Gulf Shores.

Yesterday, we participated in the 2016 Hurricane Preparedness Expo in Gulf Shores, AL put on by the City of Gulf Shores. If you weren't able to make it, take a look at some of our tips below:

Prepare your home:

• Cover all of your home's windows with precut plywood or hurricane shutters to protect your windows from high winds.
• Plan to bring in all outdoor furniture, decorations, garbage cans and anything else that is not tied down.
• Keep all tree and shrubs will trimmed so they are more wind resistant.
• Turn off utilities as instructed. Otherwise, turn the refrigerator thermostat to its coldest setting and keep its doors closed.
• Turn off propane tanks.
• Ensure a supply of water for sanitary purposes such as cleaning and flushing toilets. Fill the bathtub and other large containers with water.

Prepare your business:

• Carefully assess how your company functions, both internally and externally, to determine which staff, materials, procedures and equipment are absolutely necessary to keep the business operating.
• Identify operations critical to survival and recovery.
• Plan what you will do if your building is not accessible.
  • Consider if you can run the business from a different location or from your home.
  • Develop relationships with other companies to use their facilities in case a disaster makes your location unstable.
• Ask your local SERVPRO representative about setting up your free ERP (Emergency Ready Plan)

We hope you are able to use these tips in the event of a disaster; however, we know that some times, weather can take us by surprise. If you aren't able to prepare, please remember that as your local SERVPRO, we are "Ready for whatever happens." When the storm is a major event, you need more comprehensive restoration support. SERVPRO knows fast mitigation is the key. SERVPRO is faster to any size diaster and can be on-site within a few hours to help reduce the future damage water can cause. We have the right equipment, procedures and training to help ensure the structure is dry the first time, saving you time and money. When the storm rolls out, we roll in.