Month: October 2014

Don’t Let Your Halloween Go Up in Flames

Oct 29, 2014

By: Chelsea Haley, DKI Ventures, LLC

Halloween can be a ton of fun, resurrecting witches and zombies or dressing as your favorite superhero! Without proper precaution, though, Halloween can also be a dangerous time of year.

Did you know?

  • The United States sees an overall increase of fires on Halloween with 15,500 fires and $92 million in property loss per year. (U.S. Fire Administration)
  • Out of 900 reported home fires each year, decorations are the first thing to catch fire. And, two of every five of these fires are caused by a candle. (National Fire Protection Association)

Here are some tips from DKI to ensure you have a fun and safe holiday:

  • Keep your Jack O’ Lanterns away from steps, doorways or flammable materials, such as drapes or decorations.
  • Don’t overload your electrical outlets with lighting decorations.
  • Note that crepe paper and cornstalks are highly flammable. Keep these away from any heat sources.
  • Keep all exits clear of decorations.
  • Purchase flame-resistant costumes, wigs, accessories, etc. Avoid long trailing fabrics.
  • Keep children and pets away from candles and electrical outlets.
  • Ensure your walkways and porches are well lit and free from obstacles.
  • Repair any damaged or wobbly handrails and steps.
  • Consider using battery-operated candles or flashlights to light your Jack O’ Lanterns.
  • Test your smoke alarm, or replace its batteries.

And, don’t forget to have FUN!

The Fire is Out…Now What??

Oct 17, 2014

By: Chelsea Haley, DKI Ventures, LLC

Each year, in the United States, there are approximately:

  • 6,000 fires in the workplace
  • 200 workers’ deaths and 5,000 injuries from office fires and explosions

(Cited from OSHA facts https://www.osha.gov/)

Read our blog How to Prevent That Spark for tips to prevent an office fire. But, in the event a fire at your workplace does occur, you should know how to get back on track to minimize your business losses.

Prep Employees to Work Remotely

Don’t be in a hurry to return to the office following a fire. Set your employees up to be able to work from home or at an alternative workplace. Keeping your employees healthy and safe should be your first priority. There may be lingering smoke within the building, which can have immediate consequences to an individual’s health.

Set up a Plan of Communication

Set up a website, or company page with the following information:

  • Timesheets or a place employees can time-in and out with their work hours
  • Discussion Boards (General Q&A, and Emergency Updates)
  • A place employees can update their own individual statuses and availabilities

Communication is crucial during an emergency. Be sensitive toward your employees during this time, and let them know you are doing your best to get things back to normal. Coordinate a work schedule with them, as some may not be able to hold their normal office hours.

Collect Contact Information

Keep an emergency file of all employees’ contact information, including:

  • Cell Phone Number
  • Landline or Alternative Number
  • Personal Email
  • Emergency Contacts

Keep this information in an offsite area. It might also be beneficial to include this information in one list to hand out to all employees, for them to keep at home.

Back it Up

Although it’s convenient to have everything stored on your computer, this may be destroyed in the event of a fire or other emergency.

Document the following (and more):

  • Inventory of supplies
  • Website Contacts
  • Passwords
  • Software Information
  • System Processes

Store this document in an offsite area, along with your employees’ emergency contacts, so that you may access it in the event your computer is destroyed.

Having a plan of action is vital to a business’ ability to survive and succeed after a disaster. Helping your employees prepare for disaster will help them to return to work faster, and, in turn, help restore your business more quickly and efficiently.

Westside DKI Renews Franchise Member with DKI

October 17, 2014 – (Elk Grove Village, Ill, October 17, 2014) – DKI, North America’s largest disaster restoration contracting organization, today announced that Westside DKI of Mission Hills, CA has renewed its Franchise Member with the DKI network.

By continuing its DKI Franchise Member, Westside DKI will continue to utilize DKI’s 24 hour call center, its DIAMOND® claims tracking technology, and other tools to enhance its ability to serve its insurance and corporate customers. Westside DKI also gains access to DKI’s training seminars and workshops to ensure they remain abreast of all changes in this rapidly evolving industry.

“We are delighted that Westside DKI will continue to be a part of the rapidly growing DKI network,” Dan Cassara, DKI’s president. “Westside DKI’s commitment to quick response, superior workmanship and outstanding customer service reaffirms DKI’s position in the marketplace as The Source for Quality Restoration. We look forward to continuing our rewarding association with Westside DKI.

Company president, Alan Terrano, is pleased Westside DKI meets DKI’s high standards for continued Franchise Member, as DKI has always stood for excellence in the industry. The opportunity to work in partnership with other quality firms in the DKI network has allowed Westside DKI to expand their scope of services, introduced them to new markets and has helped ensure their continued success.

In addition to being able to use DKI’s technology and training capabilities, Westside DKI can also continue using the DKI branding in its marketing efforts, participate in its various co-op programs, and leverage DKI’s corporate marketing efforts.

About DKI

DKI, headquartered in Chicago, is the largest disaster restoration contracting organization in North America. DKI Franchise Member companies provide full service restoration to their customers: emergency response, water damage mitigation, fire and contents cleaning, mold remediation, complete reconstruction and much more, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. DKI returns damaged property to its pre-loss condition quickly and efficiently, delivering complete satisfaction to our consumer, insurance, and corporate customers. For more information about DKI, visit our website at www.dkiservices.com or contact Jessica Nielsen at (630) 350-3000.

First Pick DKI Sponsors Youth Soccer Team

October 17, 2014 – (Elk Grove Village, IL, October 17, 2014) – DKI, North America’s largest disaster restoration contracting organization, today announced that DKI Franchise Member Company, First Pick Builders, Inc. of Lakeport, CA is proudly sponsoring a local youth soccer team.

First Pick Builders is proud to sponsor and coach the 2014 Konocti Youth Soccer League. This year’s team consists of girls ages 10 to 12 and are happily named the Lakeport Squirrels.

Dean & Cheryl Pick proudly represent youth sports in an effort to better their community through teamwork, perseverance and excellence. Their hope is that these young girls will grow and become strong, active women in their Lake County area community.

While Dean is the head coach, his wife Cheryl serves on the Board of Directors for KYSL.

“We are honored in being part of the sports program and enjoy each of these young girls. The parents are wonderful and supportive, and it shows in each of them as they grow into young ladies. Thank you to all those who help support our youth programs.”

First Pick Builders, Inc. encourages you to be the change you want to see in your community.

About First Pick Builders, Inc.

First Pick Builders, Inc. provides quality remodeling and restoration service to Lake County, California. We handle Fire Damage Repair, Water Damage Repair, Mold Removal, & Storm Damage Repair. First Pick Builders is your “one-stop-shop” for all of your construction, restoration, mitigation & cleaning needs. For more information about First Pick Builders, Inc., visit www.firstpickbuilders.com.

About DKI

DKI, headquartered in Chicago, is the largest disaster restoration contracting organization in North America. DKI Franchise Member companies provide full service restoration to their customers: emergency response, water damage mitigation, fire and contents cleaning, mold remediation, complete reconstruction and much more, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. DKI returns damaged property to its pre-loss condition quickly and efficiently, delivering complete satisfaction to our consumer, insurance, and corporate customers. For more information about DKI, visit our website at www.dkiservices.com or contact Jessica Nielsen at (630) 350-3000.

Quality Cleaning & Restoration Joins DKI

October 17, 2014 – DKI, North America’s largest disaster restoration contracting organization, today announced that Quality Cleaning & Restoration of Greenfield, Mass has joined the DKI network.

By virtue of its DKI Franchise Member, Quality Cleaning & Restoration can employ DKI’s 24-hour call center, its DIAMOND claims tracking technology, and other tools to enhance its ability to serve its insurance and corporate customers. Quality Cleaning & Restoration also gains access to DKI’s training seminars and workshops, which ensure that it remains abreast of all changes in this rapidly evolving industry.

“We are delighted to welcome Quality Cleaning & Restoration into the rapidly growing DKI network,” stated Dan Cassara, DKI’s president. “[company]’s commitment to quick response, superior workmanship and outstanding customer service reaffirms DKI’s position in the marketplace as The Source for Quality Restoration. We look forward to a long and rewarding association.”

Quality Cleaning & Restoration President, Yelena Agapov, is pleased that the company is a part of the DKI network, giving them the opportunity to work in partnership with other quality firms. The DKI network will allow Quality Cleaning & Restoration to expand their scope of service, introduce them to new markets and ensure the company’s success long into the future.

In addition to the benefits of DKI’s technology and training capabilities, Quality Cleaning & Restoration will also be able to utilize the DKI branding in its marketing efforts, participate in its various co-op programs, and leverage DKI’s corporate marketing efforts.

About DKI DKI, headquartered in Chicago, is the largest disaster restoration contracting organization in North America. DKI Franchise Member companies provide full service restoration to their customers: emergency response, water damage mitigation, fire and contents cleaning, mold remediation, complete reconstruction and much more, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. DKI returns damaged property to its pre-loss condition quickly and efficiently, delivering complete satisfaction to our consumer, insurance, and corporate customers. For more information about DKI, visit our website at www.dkiservices.com or contact Jessica Nielsen at (630) 350-3000.

How to Prevent that Spark

Oct 13, 2014

By: Chelsea Haley, DKI Ventures, LLC

So far this month, we have covered which items to have around your office or building, having an evacuation plan, and how to use one of the main tools to combat a small fire – the fire extinguisher.

Here are some everyday tips to prevent an office fire:

Tidy up

Throw away all waste papers, trash and other combustible items. Do not leave these loose on your desk, where they can add fuel to a fire.

In addition, organize your supplies and papers to properly be filed or stored, so as to not contribute to clutter blocking doorways and escape routes.

Check your circuits

Ensure cords are not out in the open to easily be stepped on, vacuumed over, or caught on something that may damage or deteriorate the outside coating. Replace all faulty or stripped cords.

Also, be sure to limit the number of plugs in your outlets. If you notice that appliances are not working properly, you may have overloaded the circuit, which could cause a fire. Electrical fires are very common in homes and workplaces.

Turn it off

Not just to reduce electricity costs, but to prevent fires, ensure every appliance is turned off before you leave the office. Most appliances are not meant to be unattended for long periods of time, and can overheat. Even some appliances, such as computers, copy machines and coffee makers quickly overheat and must be monitored and maintained.

In the case a fire does occur, call DKI for all of your repair needs.  DKI contractors are available nationwide 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

DKI Commercial Solutions Connects Clients With Resources in Response to Ebola

October 13, 2014 – (ELK GROVE VILLAGE, Ill., Oct. 13, 2014) – DKI, North America’s largest disaster restoration contracting organization, announced that it is available to connect clients with the resources to support their needs and concerns related to Ebola and hazardous waste disposal.

For more information, please contact Bill Robinson, VP of Operations, at [email protected]

About DKI

DKI, headquartered in Chicago, is the largest disaster restoration contracting organization in North America.  DKI’s Franchise Member companies provide full-service restoration to their customers, including emergency response, water damage mitigation, fire and contents cleaning, mold remediation, complete reconstruction and much more, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.  DKI returns damaged property to its pre-loss condition quickly and efficiently, delivering complete satisfaction to its consumer, insurance, and corporate customers.  For more information about DKI, visit our website at www.dkicommercial.com or call our toll-free line (800) 567-8047.

Remember the PASSword!

Oct 7, 2014

By: Chelsea Haley, DKI Ventures, LLC

Most people are familiar with the fire extinguisher, but some don’t have any idea how to use one.

You should always have a Type A fire extinguisher at home and at your place of work. Type A is used for the most common type of fires – wood, paper, fabrics, plastics, cardboard, rubber, etc.6

Knowing how to use one is very important, since accidents do happen.

Just remember the PASS word:

P: Pull the pin. This will break the seal so you may use the extinguisher.

A: Aim it at the base of the fire. If you aim at the flames, it will go right through the fire.

S: Squeeze the top handle or lever. This depresses a button that releases the pressurized extinguishing agent in the extinguisher.

S: Sweep from side to side. Start from a safe distance away from the fire, then move forward, and continue to spray until the fire is completely out.

DKI Member Company Decorated for Industry Performance and Excellence

October 6, 2014 – First Priority DKI Proud Recipient of Coveted CCC “Golden Hammer” Award

DKI, North America’s largest disaster restoration contracting organization, today announced that First Priority DKI, of South Elgin, IL was presented with a Golden Hammer Award at the 2014 Contractor Connection Conference & Expo in New Orleans.

Contractor Connection is the largest, fully independent network of managed restoration and contractor repairs for insurance companies and consumers. The Contractor Connection network has the best construction, building repair, and remodeling contractors in the U.S. and Canada.

The Golden Hammer is presented to the contractors ranking in the top 100 of more than 4,000 contractors in the U.S. and Canada.  This special recognition is awarded based on strict performance criteria and overall quality of service and professionalism.

Rob Bradley, Construction Estimator for First Priority DKI said, “It was a total team effort.  All of us at First Priority DKI share in the recognition of this award.”

We at First Priority graciously acknowledge this as a team effort; but undeniably, this award could not have been achieved without the hard work and dedication of Construction Estimator, Rob Bradley, who oversees our CCC program.

About First Priority DKI
First Priority DKI is located in South Elgin, IL and has been providing full-service restoration to the greater Chicagoland area since 1981.  We are customer focused, providing quality without question and strive to maintain a company culture and standard for exceeding expectations. For more information about First Priority DKI, visitwww.firstprioritydrs.com.

About DKI
DKI, headquartered in Chicago, is the largest disaster restoration contracting organization in North America. DKI Franchise Member companies provide full service restoration to their customers: emergency response, water damage mitigation, fire and contents cleaning, mold remediation, complete reconstruction and much more, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. DKI returns damaged property to its pre-loss condition quickly and efficiently, delivering complete satisfaction to our consumer, insurance, and corporate customers. For more information about DKI, visit our website at www.dkiservices.com or contact Jessica Nielsen at (630) 350-3000.

Stop, Drop And Roll…What Else is There to Know?

Oct 1, 2014

By: Chelsea Haley, DKI Ventures, LLC

In the case of a fire at work, be aware of your surroundings. Ensure you know the location of each of the following fire alarms:

what_else_to_know

Designate a group of safety wardens and hold routine fire drills. This number will vary due to office and building size. If you’re a small company, one to two safety wardens is sufficient, but you may need one to two per department for larger offices. Each employee should know the office’s evacuation plan, as well as be aware of alternative exit routes.