Floodwater Dangers: Understanding the Risk of Electrocution and Other Hazards

10/17/2024 (Permalink)

Always prioritize safety by avoiding electrical equipment when wet or standing in water, steering clear of unseen hazards, and never using open flames

When flooding occurs, the immediate instinct is to focus on the rising water levels and potential property damage. However, one of the most critical and life-threatening dangers often goes unnoticed—electrocution. Floodwater can carry a range of hidden dangers, and understanding these risks could save your life.

Why Is Floodwater So Dangerous?

Floodwater isn’t just water; it’s a powerful force that often brings a mix of hazardous materials and contaminants. It can carry everything from raw sewage and chemicals to sharp debris and, critically, the risk of electrical hazards. Power lines, electrical appliances, and submerged outlets can all pose severe risks when exposed to floodwater. Even a small amount of water in the wrong place can turn deadly when it comes into contact with electricity.

While most of us know the physical dangers of floodwater—such as strong currents or deep water—the risk of electrocution is less obvious but just as severe. Taking appropriate precautions can be the difference between safety and tragedy.

The Risk of Electrocution in Floodwater

One of the greatest hidden dangers in floodwater is electrocution. Water is an excellent conductor of electricity, and when floodwater comes into contact with live electrical sources, it can become electrified. Electrical currents can travel through water, affecting anyone who comes into contact with it, even if the electrical source is not visible.

Here are some common ways floodwater becomes electrified:

• Downed power lines: Floods can knock over power lines, causing them to electrify large areas of water.
• Submerged electrical appliances: If a home or business is flooded, electrical appliances, outlets, and wiring can pose risks even if the power is out.
• Hidden electrical currents: Even if you cannot see the source, an electrical current can still travel through water, making it dangerous to step into any standing water.

Essential Safety Tips When Dealing with Floodwater

If you find yourself in an area affected by flooding, it’s vital to take every possible precaution to stay safe. Here are a few crucial tips to keep in mind:

1. Avoid Touching Electrical Equipment

Never touch electrical equipment, appliances, or power sources if you are wet or standing in water. The combination of water and electricity can be fatal. Even if you’re in a rush to salvage belongings or turn off the power, it’s not worth the risk if water is present. It’s best to wait until a professional can assess the situation.

2. Be Cautious of Hidden Objects

Floodwater is often murky, making it impossible to see what’s lurking beneath the surface. Unseen objects, such as sharp debris, glass, or even animals, can cause serious injuries if you aren’t careful. If you must wade through floodwater, wear appropriate protective clothing and be cautious of every step.

3. Avoid Using Open Flames

While it may seem like a good idea to use candles or other open flames for light during a flood-related power outage, this can be extremely dangerous. Flooding often causes gas leaks, which can create a highly explosive environment. Using open flames in areas where gas may be leaking can ignite a fire or cause an explosion. Instead, use battery-powered lights or flashlights for illumination.

Additional Precautions to Consider

Beyond the immediate dangers of electrocution and injury, there are other precautions to keep in mind when dealing with floodwater:

• Turn off the power if possible: If you know your home is at risk of flooding and you have the chance, turn off the main electrical power supply before the water reaches the electrical system. This reduces the risk of electrocution.
• Stay informed: Monitor news reports and local authorities for updates on the status of power lines, electrical hazards, or gas leaks in flooded areas. Information can change rapidly during a flood event, so staying updated can help you avoid danger zones.
• Seek professional help: Once floodwater subsides, it’s tempting to re-enter your home or business to assess the damage. However, it’s important to have a professional—such as an electrician or emergency services personnel—evaluate the property for electrical hazards before entering.

Long-Term Consequences of Flood Damage

Even after floodwater recedes, the damage it causes can linger for months or even years. Electrical systems, wiring, and appliances that have been submerged in water are often compromised and may no longer be safe to use. Mold and other contaminants can also form, creating additional health risks.

Once your property is deemed safe, you’ll likely need to replace or repair many electrical components. Never attempt to restore electrical power without a thorough inspection from a licensed electrician.

Floodwater is dangerous for many reasons, but the risk of electrocution is perhaps the most critical hazard to be aware of. Water and electricity don’t mix, and the consequences of coming into contact with electrified water can be deadly. Always prioritize safety by avoiding electrical equipment when wet or standing in water, steering clear of unseen hazards, and never using open flames during a flood event.

By staying informed and taking the right precautions, you can minimize your risk and protect yourself and your loved ones from floodwater's many hazards. Safety always comes first—don’t take unnecessary risks in flood situations. If you need assistance contact us today!

Halloween Safety: Tips for a Fun and Safe Celebration

10/11/2024 (Permalink)

From costumes to candy, and everything in between, a little preparation goes a long way in making this Halloween a memorable and secure experience for

Halloween is a time for creativity, costumes, and fun, but it’s important to remember that safety should be a top priority. With a bit of planning and awareness, you can ensure that Halloween is both enjoyable and secure for everyone. Here’s a guide to keeping the holiday safe for trick-or-treaters, party-goers, and homeowners alike.

1. Costume Safety

Your costume is the highlight of Halloween, but it’s essential to choose one that prioritizes safety:

• Opt for Flame-Resistant Materials: Ensure that costumes are made from flame-resistant fabrics to reduce the risk of fire.
• Avoid Long, Flowing Costumes: These can pose tripping hazards. Consider shorter costumes or ones that can be easily adjusted.
• Make Sure Masks Fit Properly: Masks should allow for clear vision and breathing. If masks are not an option, use face paint or makeup to complete your look.
• Add Reflective Tape: Enhance visibility by adding reflective tape to costumes, especially if trick-or-treating in low-light conditions.

2. Trick-or-Treating Tips

Trick-or-treating is a beloved tradition, but safety is crucial. Here’s how to ensure a safe outing:

• Accompany Young Children: Always have an adult or responsible older child escort younger trick-or-treaters.
• Use Flashlights: Equip everyone with flashlights or glow sticks to increase visibility and make sure that drivers can see you.
• Stick to Well-Lit Areas: Choose well-lit streets and avoid shortcuts through dark or unfamiliar areas.
• Cross-Streets Safely: Remind children to use crosswalks and to look both ways before crossing the street.

3. Candy Safety

Candy is the main attraction of Halloween, but make sure it’s enjoyed safely:

• Inspect Treats: Check all candy for tampering or damage before eating. Discard anything that seems suspicious.
• Be Aware of Allergies: If your child has food allergies, ensure that they only eat treats that are safe for them. Consider carrying an allergy-friendly snack as a backup.
• Limit Sugar Intake: Too much candy can lead to stomachaches and tooth issues. Encourage moderation and balance with healthy snacks.

4. Party Safety

If you’re hosting or attending a Halloween party, keep these tips in mind:

• Secure Your Home: Make sure your home is safe for guests. Clear walkways of any obstacles and ensure that decorations don’t pose tripping hazards.
• Check for Allergies: If you’re serving food, be mindful of guests' food allergies. Label dishes clearly and offer a variety of allergy-friendly options.

5. Decorations and Lighting

Decorations set the Halloween mood, but they should be safe and well-maintained:

• Use LED Lights: Opt for LED lights for decorations, as they are cooler and less likely to cause fires.
• Secure Decorations Properly: Ensure that decorations are firmly attached and won’t create tripping hazards or get knocked over easily.
• Keep Pathways Clear: Make sure walkways and driveways are free of decorations and obstacles to prevent accidents.

Halloween is a time for creativity, excitement, and fun, but keeping safety in mind ensures that everyone can enjoy the festivities without worry. By following these tips, you can make sure that your Halloween celebration is both thrilling and safe. From costumes to candy, and everything in between, a little preparation goes a long way in making this Halloween a memorable and secure experience for all.

Happy Halloween, and stay safe!

SERVPRO of Foxborough is your comprehensive solution for residential and commercial restoration and cleaning services. Our highly trained technicians are available 24/7 to address any water, fire, or storm damage in Franklin, MA | Millis, MA | Wrentham, MA | Foxborough, MA | Wethersfield, MA | Bellingham, MA | Norfolk, MA and surrounding areas.

National Preparedness Month: A Call to Action for Safety and Resilience

9/1/2024 (Permalink)

National Preparedness Month is a nationwide initiative to raise awareness about the importance of preparing for these emergencies.

Every September, National Preparedness Month (NPM) serves as a reminder of the importance of preparing for emergencies and disasters. Whether it's natural disasters, health crises, or unexpected events, being prepared can make all the difference in safeguarding ourselves, our loved ones, and our communities. 

Why National Preparedness Month Matters

Disasters can strike without warning, and the effects can be devastating. National Preparedness Month is a nationwide initiative to raise awareness about the importance of preparing for these emergencies. By taking proactive steps, we can mitigate the impact of disasters, reduce the loss of life, and increase the resilience of our communities.

This year's theme, "Take Control in 1, 2, 3," is a call to action for everyone, especially older adults, to take simple, practical steps toward preparedness. Whether it's creating an emergency plan, assembling a disaster kit, or staying informed, these actions can empower us to respond effectively when disaster strikes.

Weekly Activities to Boost Your Preparedness

Throughout September, National Preparedness Month offers a range of activities and resources to help you take control of your safety. Here’s how you can get involved each week:

Week 1: August 28–September 3 – Kickoff to NPM

The first week is all about raising awareness. This is the time to start thinking about your preparedness plan and sharing information with others. Whether it's discussing emergency plans with your family or attending a local preparedness event, getting involved early sets the stage for a proactive month.

Week 2: September 4–10 – Multigenerational Preparedness

Emergencies affect everyone, so it's important to involve every generation in your preparedness plans. This week focuses on creating a family emergency communication plan that ensures all family members, from the youngest to the oldest, know what to do in an emergency. Discuss evacuation routes, meeting points, and emergency contacts, so everyone is on the same page.

Week 3: September 11–17 – Community Service

Communities that work together are stronger together. This week encourages you to get involved in your community's preparedness efforts. Whether it's joining a local emergency response team, organizing a preparedness workshop, or simply checking in on neighbors who might need extra help, your efforts can make a big difference.

Week 4: September 18–24 – Individual Preparedness

Personal preparedness is key to staying safe in an emergency. This week, focus on the steps you can take to prepare yourself and your household. Download the FEMA app for up-to-date information and resources, assemble an emergency kit, and make sure you have a plan for any specific needs, such as pets or medical conditions.

Week 5: September 25–30 – Lead Up to National PrepareAthon Day

As National Preparedness Month comes to a close, it’s time to put everything into action. National PrepareAthon Day is an opportunity to practice your emergency plans, review your safety checklists, and ensure that your preparations are in place. Whether it's participating in a local drill or simply going over your family’s emergency plan one more time, taking action now can help you respond confidently in the face of a disaster.

Additional Ways to Get Prepared

In addition to the weekly activities, there are many other steps you can take to enhance your preparedness during National Preparedness Month:

• Create an Emergency Kit: Make sure you have essential items like food, water, first aid supplies, flashlights, batteries, and blankets on hand. Don't forget to include items like medications, important documents, and any special needs supplies.
• Prepare for Specific Risks: Learn about the specific risks in your area, such as wildfires, hurricanes, or earthquakes, and take steps to reduce your vulnerability. This could include clearing your property of wildfire risks, securing heavy furniture, or learning about evacuation routes.
• Consider Special Needs: If you or a loved one has special needs or disabilities, take extra care to ensure that your emergency plan addresses these needs. This might involve creating a personalized emergency kit, arranging for transportation, or making sure your home is accessible in an emergency.

The Importance of Being Prepared

National Preparedness Month is more than just a reminder; it’s a call to action. By taking steps to prepare for emergencies, you’re not only protecting yourself and your loved ones but also contributing to the resilience of your community. Disasters are unpredictable, but with the right preparations, we can all take control and face them with confidence.

As we move through September, let's commit to making preparedness a priority. Whether you're creating an emergency plan for the first time or simply reviewing and updating your existing preparations, every action counts. Together, we can ensure that we're ready for whatever comes our way.

For more information and resources on how to prepare, visit Ready.gov. Stay safe, stay informed, and take control in 1, 2, 3!

SERVPRO of Foxborough is your comprehensive solution for residential and commercial restoration and cleaning services. Our highly trained technicians are available 24/7 to address any water, fire, or storm damage in Franklin, MA | Millis, MA | Wrentham, MA | Foxborough, MA | Wethersfield, MA | Bellingham, MA | Norfolk, MA and surrounding areas.

Cheering on Our Team Member Sophia Masciarelli in Her First NYC Marathon!

7/20/2024 (Permalink)

Together, we can make a lasting impact on our community and support the next generation of leaders through America SCORES New York. Go, Sophia!

We are thrilled to announce that one of our own team members, Sophia Masciarelli, is gearing up for her very first NYC Marathon! Sophia plays a crucial role in our team offices, and now she's stepping up to the challenge of running the iconic marathon on November 3rd.

But Sophia's journey isn't just about conquering 26.2 miles—it's also about making a meaningful impact. She's running to support America SCORES New York, a fantastic charitable organization that provides after-school programs combining soccer, creative writing, and service learning to empower youth in underserved communities across New York City.

America SCORES New York aims to nurture young minds, build confidence, and foster a love for learning through engaging activities that blend sports, creativity, and community service. By supporting Sophia, you're not only cheering her on during her marathon training but also contributing to the growth and development of countless young lives in our city.

Join us in rallying behind Sophia as she prepares for this incredible challenge! Your support can make a world of difference. To learn more about Sophia's fundraising efforts and to donate, please visit her fundraising page here: Sophia's Fundraising Page.

Let's show Sophia the power of community and help her make her marathon debut an unforgettable journey of compassion and determination. Together, we can make a lasting impact on our community and support the next generation of leaders through America SCORES New York. Go, Sophia!

The 1st Annual Celebration of Life 5K!

4/21/2024 (Permalink)

Mark your calendars and join us on June 22 at the Field of Dreams in Plainville, MA. See you there!

We are thrilled to announce our partnership with the For Kids' Sake Foundation as a proud sponsor of the 1st annual Celebration of Life 5K. This exciting event, honoring the life and legacy of Malia Jusczyk, aims to raise funds for the For Kids' Sake Foundation to help crush cancer.

Event Details:

1. Date: June 22
2. Location: Field of Dreams in Plainville, MA
   
   How You Can Get Involved:

• Volunteer: Help make this event a success by volunteering your time and energy.
• Sponsor: Showcase your support for this cause by becoming a sponsor of the event.
• Participant: Join us for a day of fun and fitness as we run to support a great cause.

Together, we can make a difference and support this important cause. Mark your calendars and join us on June 22 at the Field of Dreams in Plainville, MA. See you there!

Link to register or donate: 

Join Our SERVPRO Patriots Toy Drive!

10/29/2023 (Permalink)

Join us in spreading the warmth and magic of the holidays by contributing to this meaningful cause.

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!

SERVPRO of Foxborough Celebrates Thanksgiving

11/5/2022 (Permalink)

Thanksgiving Day is an annual national holiday in the United States and 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 and is a day to celebrate the harvest and other blessings of the past year. 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 home when cooking your turkey and check on it frequently.
• Keep children away from the stove. 
• Make sure kids stay away from hot food.
• 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 Foxborough

SERVPRO of Foxborough 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 damages.

SERVPRO of Foxborough Helps Businesses Prepare For Flooding

11/5/2022 (Permalink)

Flooding happens often and it is critical that businesses are prepared. It is recommended to have flood insurance and tools that mitigate total loss.

Flooding happens often and it is critical that businesses are prepared. 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 disasters, 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 Foxborough 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 damages.

SERVPRO of Foxborough Helps Prepare For Winter Storms

11/5/2022 (Permalink)

Winter storms can create a higher risk of car accidents, carbon monoxide poisoning, and more.

Winter storms can create a higher risk of car accidents, carbon monoxide poisoning, and more. 

They also create blizzard conditions, freezing rain, snow, ice, extreme cold, and high winds that can last for several days.

It is important to know what to do before the winter weather arrives. 

Here are some quick winter storm tips: 

1. Install caulking and weather stripping around doors and windows. 
2. Insulate pipes to reduce freezing. 
3. Install and test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors.
4. Pay attention to weather reports and warnings.
5. Sign up for your community’s warning system such as Emergency Alert System (EAS) and NOAA Weather Radio.
6. Gather supplies or restock your disaster supply kits.
7. Remember the needs of your pets. 
8. Have extra batteries for radios, flashlights, and cellphones.
9. Create an emergency supply kit for your vehicle. Include jumper cables, sand, a flashlight (hand-crank or battery-operated), a first aid kit, etc. 
10. 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 Foxborough 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 damages.

SERVPRO of Foxborough Recognizes Fire Prevention Week

10/5/2022 (Permalink)

It is important for everyone to plan and practice a home fire escape. It is important everyone knows what to do when the smoke alarm sounds.

On October 9th, 1911 over 250 people died and buildings were destroyed by a fire. In 1922, President Harding proclaimed National Fire Prevention Week.

Here are some tips to help you with fire prevention.  

• Install and maintain smoke detectors.
• 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. It is important everyone knows what to do when the smoke alarm sounds. 

Have a plan for everyone in the home, and make sure they know what to do. 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 Foxborough 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. 

SERVPRO of Foxborough Explains Fire Prevention Day

10/5/2022 (Permalink)

It is important to create awareness of fires and know how to participate because we never know when a fire can happen.

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, and over 17,000 structures were destroyed. This and other major fires caused a movement to proclaim this holiday, National Fire Prevention Day on October 9th.  (nfpa.org)

It is important to create awareness of fires and know how to participate because we never know when a fire can happen.  

1. Fire departments around the country hold sessions and seminars to teach fire prevention and safety. 
2. Schools have fire drills and hold lessons on fire prevention. 
3. Families conduct an EDITH exercise (Exit Drills In The Home). If you need assistance with this, reach out to your local fire department. 
4. Businesses should conduct fire drills. 
5. Learn more about fires both nationally and locally. 

Fires are never something that anyone anticipates happening, but they happen more often than not.

SERVPRO of Foxborough 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. 

Fall Safety From SERVPRO of Foxborough

10/5/2022 (Permalink)

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.

SERVPRO of Foxborough 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. 

SERVPRO of Foxborough Shares Halloween Safety

10/5/2022 (Permalink)

More than twice as many children are killed in pedestrian-car crashes between the hours of 4 and 10 PM on Halloween.

More than twice as many children are killed in pedestrian-car crashes between the hours of 4 and 10 PM on Halloween. 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. Here are a few tips to help be safe this holiday:

1. Wear bright clothes. If your costume is dark use reflectors. 
2. Hold onto your child’s hand.
3. Always try to cross crosswalks and be alert. 
4. Look every which way before you do cross the street.
5. Do not jaywalk. 
6. Wait for the car to the first pass where you want to cross.
7. All drivers should stay off their cell phones.
8. If you are partying instead of trick or treating, stay sober or find another ride home.
9. Wait behind other vehicles that are pulled over, because they may be dropping off children.
10. Warn children that they are not to get into the car of anyone they do not know. 
11. 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 Foxborough 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. 

SERVPRO of Foxborough Shares Fire Safety

10/5/2022 (Permalink)

Everyone needs to know your family's escape plan. The National Fire Protection Association indicates 71% of Americans have a home fire escape plan

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.
• Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, grilling, boiling, or broiling food.
• When simmering, baking, or roasting, check the food regularly and remain in the kitchen while cooking.
• 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 house
• Check all cords and replace any that are frayed or have bare wires
• Switch to flameless candles
• 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

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 Foxborough 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. 

SERVPRO of Foxborough Shares Tornado Safety

9/5/2022 (Permalink)

It is important to know what you can do in case of a storm. If a tornado warning is in effect, taking shelter is critical.

It is important to know what you can do in case of a storm. If a tornado warning is in effect, taking shelter is critical. 

Being completely underground is the best place to be in a tornado.  Always make sure the door is securely fastened.

If the entrance to your storm cellar is outside allow plenty of time to get to the shelter. If not, you may be exposed to wind, hail, rain, and lightning.

A basement is also a good shelter as long as it does not have access to doors or windows. 

Avoid seeking shelter underneath heavy objects, and use coverings such as pillows, blankets, sleeping bags, 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 Foxborough 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. 

SERVPRO of Foxborough Shares What To Do If You Have a Tornado Warning

9/5/2022 (Permalink)

If you have a tornado warning, shelter is critical for your safety. Have a safe room that is away from any doors or windows.

If you have a tornado warning, shelter is critical for your safety. Have a safe room that is away from any doors or windows.

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, but they should not have outside wall or windows. 
• Closets are another option; it should be deep inside 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. 

SERVPRO of Foxborough 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 National Preparedness Month

9/5/2022 (Permalink)

Each September we recognize National Preparedness Month. It was created to promote family and community disaster planning now.

Each September we recognize 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 because they can happen to anyone at any time. 

If your emergency supply kit is already stocked, make sure that the items are not expired. For example, are the batteries still working? 

Make sure to cut back trees and shrubs that are too close to your house, so it can prevent damage in storm season. 

Make sure that those around you are prepared. Include your children in your preparedness drills and know your emergency plans of what to do if you need to evacuate or shelter in place.  

SERVPRO of Foxborough 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. 

SERVPRO of Foxborough Shares Safety Tips

9/5/2022 (Permalink)

National Preparedness Month, which is September, encourages and reminds people to be prepared for disasters or emergencies in their communities.

National Preparedness Month, which is September, 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 health and 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. 

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 Foxborough 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.

Fire Safety Tips for Fall

9/5/2022 (Permalink)

Fall is a great time for many people to enjoy the beautiful crisp weather, but along with that comes several dangers especially fires.

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. However, make sure to understand the dangers that can come of it. 

Here are some tips to help prevent fires: 

1. Service Your Furnace: Before the cold winter weather sets in, 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.
2. Use Fireplaces Safely: Keep fire in its proper place by using a fireplace screen. This will keep sparks from flying out of the fireplace. 
3. 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 least three feet of empty area around space heaters.
4. Reconsider Leaf Burning: Burning leaves produces dangerous and cancer-causing chemicals. Homeowners should avoid disposing of leaves this way. 
5. 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. 
6. 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.
7. 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 Foxborough 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 fire damages.

Fall Home Maintenance Checklist

9/5/2022 (Permalink)

Here are some home maintenance ideas that will keep your home running in peak condition all winter long.

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; this can save you money 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. 
• Make sure the roof is in good shape and make sure there are not any loose shingles. If not taken care of, damage can happen with deterioration to insulation, wood and drywall.

Interior Maintenance

• Air from windows and doors are easy to find, make sure to apply weather stripping and caulk to areas that have air venting issues. 
• 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. 
• Clean your humidifiers regularly during the heating season. Bacteria and spores can develop in a dirty water tank resulting in unclean moisture.

SERVPRO of Foxborough 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 Foxborough Shares How to Burn a Candle Safely

8/14/2022 (Permalink)

Many people enjoy having candles in their homes. It is important to know candle safety so that you can enjoy it without leading to a fire.

Many people enjoy having candles in their homes. 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. 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.
• Keep your hair and loose clothing out of sight.
• Never leave a candle unattended.
• Never burn a candle 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 are sleeping.
• Use a candle snuffer to extinguish a candle.
• 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. It is good to know the safety precautions ahead of time. 

SERVPRO of Foxborough is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you with your disaster needs to get it back to “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Foxborough Shares What You Should Do to Your Home Before Fall Starts

8/14/2022 (Permalink)

Consider everything you need to know before for the fall days in your home.

Consider everything you need to know before for the fall days in your home. 

1. Clean your gutters: If they're clogged, you can end up with a flooded interior and damaged exterior. 
2. Check for drafts: Weatherstripping is simple and probably the most cost-effective way to keep heating costs down.
3. Drain your outdoor faucets: Drain and disconnect all garden hoses to prevent any water freezing. 
4. Bring your outdoor furniture in: If you want to get another summer season out of it you should store it away.
5. Change your filters: If your filters are clogged, it's harder to keep your home at the temperature you want it to be. 
6. Change your batteries: Once a year you should be checking to make sure all smoke detectors and carbon monoxide devices are working. 

SERVPRO of Foxborough is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you with your disaster needs to get it back to “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Foxborough Shares Smoke Detector Tips

8/14/2022 (Permalink)

Maintaining smoke alarms takes minutes, and it’s worth it for the peace of mind it provides.

A smoke detector is something that we do not think about often unless it’s sounding an alarm or making that annoying chirping noise.

It is one of the most important devices in your house and it can save your life in an emergency. Find out what you need to know about smoke detectors.

1. You should check your smoke detectors monthly or at least twice a year.
2. 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. 
3. Most smoke detectors last a maximum of 10 years, always 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 Foxborough is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you with your disaster needs to get it back to “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Foxborough Shares Grill Safety

8/14/2022 (Permalink)

Grill fires can start easily and spread quickly. Learn how you can help keep your home safe with these tips.

Grilling is a great way to enjoy the nice summer weather.  Grill fires can start easily and spread quickly. Learn how you can help keep your home safe with these tips.

1. Only use grills outside: It may be tempting to set up your grill in your open garage, but they are strictly designed for outdoor use.
2. Place your grill away from your home: You should avoid placing your grill outside the back door, or the deck because it can pose a potential fire hazard. 
3. Make sure your grill is located on a flat surface: Grills on uneven surfaces can tip over easily and cause a fire. 
4. Check your grill for leaks: A leak in the gas lines can cause propane to build up inside. 
5. Always clean your grill after use: Using your grill often causes grease to build up, this can act as fuel and catch fire.
6. Never leave your barbecue grill unattended while in use: When a grill is left unattended it can become a safety and fire hazard.
7. 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. 
8. Always have a fire extinguisher close by It is simple to use, just point and spray to extinguish the fire. 

SERVPRO of Foxborough is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you with your disaster needs to get it back to “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Foxborough Shares Back To School Tips

8/8/2022 (Permalink)

The school will be starting back up soon and it is essential to remember some key tips that will help keep them safe and healthy.

The school will be starting back up soon and it is essential 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: 

1. Review your family's walking safety rules. Make sure to practice walking to school with your child.
2. Walk on the sidewalk. If there is no sidewalk, walk facing the traffic.
3. Before crossing the street, stop and look left, right, and left again. 
4. Make eye contact with drivers before crossing.
5. Always cross streets at crosswalks or intersections
6. Stay alert and avoid distractions.
7. Teach your children school bus safety rules.
8. Teach your children to stand 6 feet away from the curb
9. Make eye contact with children who are crossing the street
10. Never pass a bus loading or unloading children

SERVPRO of Foxborough is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you with your disaster needs to get it back to “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Foxborough Shares Tax-Free Information

8/8/2022 (Permalink)

The tax-free weekend comes once a year. This allows people to get school items tax-free, which could be a great deal of savings!

The tax-free weekend comes once a year. 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.

You can learn more here: 

https://www.mass.gov/info-details/sales-tax-holiday-frequently-asked-questions 

SERVPRO of Foxborough is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you with your disaster needs to get it back to “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Foxborough is Hiring A Production Technician

8/8/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Foxborough is Hiring A Production Technician

Our main headquarters is conveniently located right off Route 495 in Hopkinton, MA. SERVPRO of Foxborough offers exciting employment opportunities and we are committed to development of our employees. We offer a variety of training and certification programs and encourage our employees to expand their knowledge base and skill sets. Our regional office, located in Lawrence, frequently hosts seminars to further help our staff and crew members succeed. 

The remediation services industry is an ever growing, multi-billion dollar industry and SERVPRO is a leader in this space. Our family of franchises is the second largest SERVPRO family in the Easter Massachusetts region and we are continuing to acquire new franchises.  We are always looking for hardworking team players who are not afraid to get their hands dirty and have a “can do” attitude to join our ever crew and grow their careers with us. Give us a call to start your career.

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. 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 Foxborough is the place for you! Contact us at (508) 370-4400 

SERVPRO of Foxborough Shares The Top 5 Summer Safety Tips

7/4/2022 (Permalink)

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.

1. 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. 
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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 Foxborough is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with your damage. “Like it never even happened.”

What To Do If Your House Floods in SERVPRO of Foxborough

7/4/2022 (Permalink)

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 Foxborough to determine what steps are necessary to repair your home from flood damage.

We are proud to serve our local communities:

• Franklin, MA
• Millis, MA
• Wrentham, MA
• Foxborough, MA
• Wethersfield, MA
• Bellingham, MA
• Norfolk, MA

SERVPRO of Foxborough is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with your damage. “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Foxborough Shares Things To Do Before Going On Vacation

7/4/2022 (Permalink)

Here is a checklist to help keep your house safe while you are away on vacation.

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 Foxborough is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with commercial damage. “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Foxborough Shares Firework Safety

6/6/2022 (Permalink)

Fireworks can be very dangerous if they are not used properly, they can even cause a fire to your home.

The summer months are a great time for fireworks. Fireworks are designed to burn and produce motion or audible effects. Here are some firework safety tips that you should consider: 

• Make sure there is adult supervision of all fireworks at all times
• Always read and follow the manufacturer's directions
• 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 Foxborough is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you with your disaster needs to get it back to “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Foxborough Shares How To Observe Lightning Safety Awareness Week

6/6/2022 (Permalink)

Lightning Safety Awareness Week helps to alert people that the outdoors are not safe during a thunderstorm.

Lightning happens more in the summer months and it can cause much damage to a building. It is important to take precautions to help prevent damage.

It is advised to stay indoors during a thunderstorm. It is important to have a safety plan in place should a thunderstorm arrive. 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.

• Sunday: An Introduction to Lightning and Lightning Safety
• Monday: The Science of Lightning and Thunder
• Tuesday: Lightning Safety Outdoors
• Wednesday: Lightning Safety Indoors
• Thursday: Lightning Safety and Sports Activities
• Friday: Medical Effects on Lightning Victims
• Saturday: Protecting Your Home from Lightning

SERVPRO of Foxborough is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you with your disaster needs to get it back to “Like it never even happened.”

New England SERVPRO® Owners Team Up with Red Sox

6/3/2022 (Permalink)

A group of SERVPRO franchise owners in northern New England is proud to announce their collective sponsorship of the Boston 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 Foxborough Is the Damage Cleanup Restoration & Construction Company

6/3/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Foxborough is the industry leader and is available 24 hours a day to provide property owners with emergency cleanup, restoration.

You cannot predict when the disaster will arrive at your commercial building. Knowing who to call when disaster strikes are the first step after commercial property damage such as a fire, water, or storm damage. SERVPRO of Foxborough is the industry leader and is available 24 hours a day to provide property owners with emergency cleanup, restoration, and construction needs.

When you face damage to your commercial properties SERVPRO of Foxborough will be there to help. We restore properties that have damage such as floods, toilet overflows, water leaks, and pipe breaks to sprinkler malfunctions. We will make it our priority to get your buildings back to working quickly.

SERVPRO of Foxborough understands that water damage is a huge inconvenience, but will work quickly so your business can get back to its normal day-to-day functioning. We have the equipment, training, and experience to find and dry the water before secondary damage sets in. 

We are proud to serve our local communities:

• Franklin, MA
• Millis, MA
• Wrentham, MA
• Foxborough, MA
• Wethersfield, MA
• Bellingham, MA
• Norfolk, MA

SERVPRO of Foxborough is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you with your disaster needs to get it back to “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Foxborough Shares Positive Reviews

5/8/2022 (Permalink)

We are highly trained in the restoration field. Our customer's testimonials speak for themselves.

We are a restoration company and we hope you never have to call us. 

However, we take great pride in our services, customers, and team. We are highly trained in the restoration field. Our customer's testimonials speak for themselves. 

“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 in cleaning up the damage. mauritizo was great to work within the rebuild. thank you servrpo” -- Issy 

SERVPRO of Foxborough is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you with your disaster needs to get it back to “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Foxborough Helps The Local Community

5/8/2022 (Permalink)

Both the Disaster Remediation and Rebuild Teams of SERVPRO of Foxborough are highly skilled and professional.

Both the Disaster Remediation and Rebuild Teams of SERVPRO of Foxborough are highly skilled and professional. Our certified technicians and licensed contractors will be there for you throughout the entire project life cycle.  They collaborate with you, keep you informed, and make sure that your expectations are met. SERVPRO of Foxborough 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:

• Franklin, MA
• Millis, MA
• Wrentham, MA
• Foxborough, MA
• Wethersfield, MA
• Bellingham, MA
• Norfolk, MA

SERVPRO of Foxborough is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you with your disaster needs to get it back to “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Foxborough Hosts a Plumber Luncheon!

5/8/2022 (Permalink)

We love the community that we are a part of and thought it was a great time to host a plumber luncheon.

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! 

Come visit Republic Plumbing Supply Co. on May 10th for our plumber luncheon! Food, drinks, and a gift card raffle will be provided. You don't want to miss it! 

We look forward to seeing you there! 

SERVPRO of Foxborough is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you with your disaster needs to get it back to “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Foxborough Shares Professional Help for Water Damage

4/9/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Foxborough is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you with your residential disaster needs to get it back to “Like it

When water damage happens at your property, you might want to clean it up yourself. The downside is that water migrates quickly. This can cause damage to your house. 

If 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 Foxborough is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you with your residential disaster needs to get it back to “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Foxborough Helps Prepare for a Flood

4/5/2022 (Permalink)

Here are a few ways to prepare for a flood.

There are several ways to prepare for a flood, though you can't fully prevent it. 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 Foxborough is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you with your residential disaster needs to get it back to “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Foxborough Helps Restoration For Residential And Commercial Buildings

1/18/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO will be there for you from the time you request services until the job has been completed to your satisfaction.

SERVPRO will be there for you 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

No matter how large or small your diaster is, we have you covered. SERVPRO of Foxborough is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you. “Like it never even happened.” 

SERVPRO of Foxborough Shares Fire Safety

1/17/2022 (Permalink)

Most electrical fires in homes are sparked off by incorrectly installed wiring or overloaded circuits. There are many things you can do at home to pre

The winter months are a popular time for fires, especially in homes. What Causes Electrical Fires?

Most electrical fires in homes are sparked off by incorrectly installed wiring or overloaded circuits. There are many things you can do at home to prevent fires. 

1. New Appliance Setup

If you are setting up a new appliance by yourself without help from a professional electrician, you should double-check all your connections, and read the manual completely. Certain electrical appliances may require a voltage regulator.

2. Extension Cords

These are the most common causes of electrical fires and can be easily preventable. To avoid this make sure the capacity of the extension cord matches the appliance; the total wattage of all devices connected should never exceed the extension cord capacity.

3. Light Bulbs

Some fixtures may have specific bulbs to use such as incandescent bulbs, or fluorescent bulbs. To prevent an electrical fire, make sure that your light bulbs are used with electrical sockets.

4. Power Cords

These have at least six outlets in the device with one main cord that plugs into a wall outlet. Most importantly, never have one power strip into another; this can start a fire and affect your circuit breakers.

No matter how large or small your diaster is, we have you covered. SERVPRO of Foxborough is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you. “Like it never even happened.” 

SERVPRO of Foxborough Uses Emergency Readiness Plan For Businesses

1/14/2022 (Permalink)

We never know when a disaster will happen, but it is important to have a plan ready.

Would your business be ready if a disaster hits? 

We never know when a disaster will happen, but it is important to have a plan ready. Without proper preparation, a minor emergency can have tragic consequences. 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

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 location where everyone can gather in the event of a fire or other disaster. 

Once the plan is in place, select an employee to lead the facility. 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, and you can then adjust it accordingly.

No matter how large or small your diaster is, we have you covered. SERVPRO of Foxborough is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you. “Like it never even happened.” 

SERVPRO of Foxborough is Faster To Any Size Disaster

1/12/2022 (Permalink)

We respond quicker with resources and are ready to help with all of your restoration needs.

We respond quicker with resources and are ready to help with all of your restoration needs. For major storms and disasters, we call upon special Disaster Recovery Teams for additional resources. 

There are many benefits when working with SERVPRO of Foxborough:

• 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 restoration situations, immediate action is needed quickly. 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.

No matter how large or small your diaster is, we have you covered. SERVPRO of Foxborough is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you. “Like it never even happened.” 

SERVPRO of Foxborough has Advanced Technology and Techniques

1/4/2022 (Permalink)

We respond immediately when you need restoration services for your home or business. SERVPRO of Foxborough has the training, equipment to help.

We respond immediately when you need restoration services for your home or business. SERVPRO of Foxborough has 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. 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.

Drying Equipment: Industrial strength air movers and dehumidifiers are needed to remove the remaining moisture from the ceiling, walls, and floors. 

Odor Removal and Deodorization: Water and fire damage often causes powerful odors. Our machines remove airborne contaminants and control the air quality during the restoration and cleanup process.

No matter how large or small your diaster is, we have you covered. SERVPRO of Foxborough is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you. “Like it never even happened.” 

SERVPRO of Foxborough Gives Back To The Community

12/7/2021 (Permalink)

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 of the following items: flour (2,4 or 5 lbs) canola oil, vegetable oil, and olive oil any size. They are also in need of personal hygiene items toothpaste, shampoo, and bars of soap. 

If you are not able to make it out to our location, you can make a donation right online: https://www.hopeworldwidema.org/framingham-food-pantry

We appreciate your help this holiday season! Happy Holidays! 

SERVPRO of Foxborough is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you with disasters. “Like it never even happened.” 

SERVPRO of Foxborough Provides Shopping Online Tips

11/19/2021 (Permalink)

Online shopping is blooming this year. Make sure to take steps to protect yourself when shopping online.

Online shopping is blooming this year. Make sure to take steps to protect yourself when shopping online especially during the holiday season.

It can be easy for scammers during the holidays more than at any other time. 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 and that re-direct you to another website. 
• Do your homework: Prior to making a purchase, read reviews and learn more about a company. 
• Consider your payment options: A credit card is much better than using a debit card. 
• Watch your information: Be alert to the kinds of information being collected to complete your transaction.
• Keep tabs on your bank: 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 like computers and smartphones are free from malware.
• Use secure Wi-Fi: Public Wi-Fi to shop online is convenient, but you should use your phone as a hotspot.

SERVPRO of Foxborough is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you with any fire damage “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Foxborough Talks Winter Weather Safety

11/19/2021 (Permalink)

We all know that winter in the Foxborough area can change quickly. Here are some important winter storm things to know.

We all know that winter in the Foxborough area can change quickly. Here are some important winter storm 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 beforehand.
• Winter Weather Advisory: This is issued for accumulations of snow, freezing rain, and sleet.
• Know Your Risk for Winter Storms: Pay attention to the weather and warnings of winter storms. 

SERVPRO of Foxborough is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you with any fire damage “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Foxborough Halloween Safety Tips

10/30/2021 (Permalink)

Halloween is a fun day for children. They get to dress up and get free candy. However, along with Trick or Treating comes safety.

Halloween is a fun day for children. They get to dress up and get free candy. However, along with Trick or Treating comes safety.

Here are safety tips for this day:

• Walk Safely: Make sure to cross the street at corners and use traffic signals or crosswalks. 
• Put electronic devices down: Pay attention to your surroundings and keep your head up.
• Walk on sidewalks: If there are no sidewalks, walk facing traffic.
• Watch for cars: Look out for cars that are backing up. 
• Wear bright colors: Make sure to have some reflective clothing and choose light colors so people can see you at night.
• Drive safe: Take extra time to look for kids at intersections and hidden areas. 
• Make sure to turn your headlights on so you can spot them 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 Foxborough is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you with any fire damage “Like it never even happened.” 

SERVPRO of Foxborough Honors National First Responders Day

10/28/2021 (Permalink)

Did you know October 28th is National First Responders Day? This is a day to honor the men and women who put their lives first in helping others.

Did you know October 28th is National First Responders Day? This is a day to honor the men and women who put their lives first in helping others.

First responders are firefighters, police, emergency medical technicians (EMT), paramedics, and 911 operators. We honor this national day of gratitude.

HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalFirstRespondersDay

This day provides you with an opportunity to recognize a first responder. 

• Treat them to their favorite beverage 
• Buy their next meal
• Hand deliver a note and gift 

Connect with a first responder and thank them. Let them know you appreciate their dedication and sacrifice.

SERVPRO of Foxborough is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you with any fire damage “Like it never even happened.” 

SERVPRO of Foxborough Honors Mental Health Day

10/10/2021 (Permalink)

Did you know World Mental Health Day is celebrated on October 10th? This is a time to raise awareness and support about mental health.

Did you know World Mental Health Day is celebrated on October 10th? This is a time to raise awareness and support about mental health.

Mental health is a demanding topic these days. People aren’t as shy anymore to address mental health issues. However, that doesn’t mean we should stop creating awareness. 

Mental health covers several areas: social, emotional, and psychological well-being. It can affect thoughts, feelings, and actions. Positive mental health will help decrease stress and life-changing for many.

HOW TO OBSERVE #MentalHealthDay

Mental health can impact anyone at one point or another. Discussing mental health with your loved ones helps.

• Organizations host a variety of events about this topic. Events may include educational seminars, free mental health screenings, walk-a-thons, marathons, conferences, mass media promotions, and more. You can find some here: https://www.nami.org/Get-Involved/Awareness-events 
• If you know someone who struggles with a mental health disorder, reach out to them and offer support. 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 Foxborough is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you with any fire damage “Like it never even happened.” 

SERVPRO of Foxborough Gives Back During Breast Cancer Month

10/4/2021 (Permalink)

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month; this is a great time to raise awareness about the impact of breast cancer and local communities.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month; this is a great time to raise awareness about the impact of breast cancer and local communities. 

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 are found in a man. (CDC)

Here are ways to give back:

• Make a Donation: This will help cancer patients get the medical help they need. 
• Start a Fundraiser: Get involved with friends and family and make it fun.
• Join a Race or Walk: This will help fund life-saving research, treatment, and education. 

https://www.komen.org/

SERVPRO of Foxborough is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you with any fire damage “Like it never even happened.”  

SERVPRO of Foxborough Honors Fire Prevention Week

10/4/2021 (Permalink)

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) designates one week, Sunday, October 3rd to Saturday, October 9th.

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) designates one week, Sunday, October 3rd to Saturday, October 9th, each year to share fire safety topics. 

The goal of Fire Prevention Month is to raise fire safety awareness but to ensure safety. 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) 

Fire safety awareness and education are important for families. Check your local fire department, sometimes they provide education to local communities. 

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

Unattended cooking is the #1 cause of home fires. (First Alert) 

Practice home safety, so you are prepared should a fire arise.

SERVPRO of Foxborough is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you with any fire damage “Like it never even happened.” 

SERVPRO Foxborough Celebrates Fall

9/22/2021 (Permalink)

September 22nd is the autumnal equinox. Fall begins in the Northern Hemisphere whereas spring begins in the Southern Hemisphere.

September 22nd is the autumnal equinox. Fall begins in the Northern Hemisphere whereas spring begins in the Southern Hemisphere.

This is when darkness begins to win over daylight. Our hours of daylight have been slightly shorter each day since the summer solstice in June.

The next three months hours of daylight will continue to grow shorter. At the autumnal equinox, day and night are approximately equal in length.

SERVPRO of Foxborough is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you with any fire damage “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO Foxborough Emergency Supply Kits For National Preparedness Month

9/22/2021 (Permalink)

A supply kit should be prepared for potential disasters; you might not know when one might arrive. Make sure your family has the necessary food.

A supply kit should be prepared for potential disasters; you might not know when one might arrive. Make sure your family has the necessary food and supplies.  

Keep the kit up to date by having the food and water fresh.  It is typically best to store the kit, along with any pet supplies, in a closet.

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 a 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

SERVPRO of Foxborough is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you with any fire damage “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO Foxborough Honors Grandparents Day

9/12/2021 (Permalink)

Sunday, September 12 is Grandparents Day. It is a special day for grandparents.

Sunday, September 12 is Grandparents Day. It is a special day for grandparents. 

We support Grandparents’ Day because both grandkids and grandparents natter. Grandchildren thrive when grandparents have a supporting relationship with them.

There is a special day for Mothers and Fathers so it makes sense to have one for grandparents too! They have a uniquely special bond, and this day is a great time to treasure that time together.

Make sure to spend time with your Grandparents not only today but as often as you can. 

SERVPRO of Foxborough is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you with any fire damage “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO Foxborough Honors 9-11

9/10/2021 (Permalink)

September 11th is Patriot Day. It is an observed holiday in the United States. This day is to commemorate the lives of those who were lost.

September 11th is Patriot Day. It is an observed holiday in the United States. This day is to commemorate the lives of those who were lost in the terrorist attacks in 2001. 

On December 18th, 2001, this was declared Patriot Day. It is a yearly proclamation requesting that all flags be flown at half-staff. 

Americans are asked to honor those lost with a moment of silence at 8:46 AM, Eastern Standard Time. This is the time that the first airplane struck the World Trade Center. 

Please join us today remembering those at this designation time. 

SERVPRO of Foxborough is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you with any fire damage “Like it never even happened.”

Happy Labor Day From SERVPRO Foxborough

9/1/2021 (Permalink)

We hope that you have a healthy and safe Labor Day weekend and are able to enjoy time off.

Labor Day is Monday, September 6th. It is a day to tribute the contributions and achievements of the hard-working Americans.

Labor Day was created by the labor movement in the 19th century; it became a federal holiday in 1894. This is an annual celebration of workers and their achievements. It originated during one of American labor history’s most dismal chapters.

The Industrial Revolution in the United States on average had Americans working 12-hour days and seven-day weeks to make a basic living. Even children as young as 5 or 6 were working across the country.

People were faced with extremely unsafe working conditions, sanitary facilities, and uneven breaks.

Today it symbolizes the end of summer for many Americans. 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 Foxborough is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you with any fire damage “Like it never even happened.”

Autumn Home Maintenance Safety Tips in Foxborough

8/30/2021 (Permalink)

These are simple and easy little tips you can practice during the Autumn season to ensure safety all around you and your home.

As the weather starts to cool off you will find more people doing yard work. It can be therapeutic for people to work in their yard in these crisp months. 

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. Look for where power lines are before you set up your ladder.

Use Caution on Ladders: Your ladder should be placed on a flat, level surface. Make sure to wear appropriate footwear.

Clean Up Fallen Leaves: Check to make sure all walkways and driveways are clear of falling leaves, wet leaves can 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 and your home. 

SERVPRO of Foxborough is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you with any storm damage “Like it never even happened.” 

Safety Tips for Fall Driving in Foxborough

8/27/2021 (Permalink)

As the fall months are getting closer, the weather will be shifting, so it is important to drive cautiously in the coming months.

As the fall months are getting closer, the weather will be shifting, so it is important to drive cautiously in the coming months. Here are some tips for you to remember: 

Visibility May Be Poor: Falling leaves, rain, or fog can limit your vision sometimes. 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.

Slow Down on Wet Pavement: Always keep a safe distance behind the car in front of you, especially in rainy 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. 

Should a storm arise and cause damage to your home give us a call. SERVPRO of Foxborough is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you with any storm damage “Like it never even happened.”

Fire Safety Tips for Fall in Foxborough

8/24/2021 (Permalink)

There’s nothing cozier than spending time with a fireplace to keep you warm as the weather turns colder. It is important to know fire safety.

There’s nothing cozier than spending time with a fireplace to keep you warm as the weather turns colder. It is important to know some of the safety hazards: 

Have Your Furnace Serviced: Have your furnace inspected by your heating and cooling company during a new season. Have them check for leaks and ensure it is working properly. 

Be Careful Using Your Fireplace: Make sure your fireplace has a screen; screens are crucial, it keeps flying sparks safely inside the fireplace. 

Use Caution with Space Heaters: Space heaters are a great way to chill out. Just make sure that you allow at least three feet of empty space around the heater to prevent fires. 

Leaf Burning Could Be Dangerous: Burning leaves can be dangerous, make sure to wear a protective mask if you decide to do so. 

Exercise Candle Safety: Candles give a wonderful ambiance to a room but can also pose a fire hazard; never leave candles unattended. 

Take note of all the precautions in the fall months to prevent a fire. 

SERVPRO of Foxborough is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you with any fire damage “Like it never even happened.” 

Winterizing Your Kitchen in Foxborough

8/20/2021 (Permalink)

Before you know it fall will be here; now is the time to plan ahead.

Before you know it fall will be here; now is the time to plan ahead. Apart from regular maintenance, it is time to wash the curtains, replace the shelf liners, and clean fixtures throughout your home.  Make sure to give your kitchen some attention:

• Refrigerator: Remove all the contents, shelves, racks, bins, and trays, then wash everything with antibacterial cleaner. 
• Stove: If your model is self-cleaning, then you know the drill. If not you can place a cup of ammonia in a ceramic dish in the oven overnight; be sure to wear gloves and open all nearby windows to prevent a fire.
• Dishwasher: You will want to use some baking soda on a damp sponge and wipe down the interior liner.

These are super easy and efficient ways to clean your kitchen and prep for the new season. 

SERVPRO of Foxborough is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you with any storm damage “Like it never even happened.”

Fall Cleaning Tips in Foxborough

8/18/2021 (Permalink)

Roof gutters are traces that route water off your roof, so it is really important to clean your gutters.

Roof gutters are traces that route water off your roof, so it is really important to clean your gutters. 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 such as siding, windows, doors, and foundations.

Some gutters have leaf-catching systems, but even these gutters need to be checked. The best approach is to plan a day when you can check 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; damp leaves and dirt will come up easier.  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. If there's an obstruction in your downspout, use a plumber's snake.  Have a helper who can spot you on the ladder as needed. 

Take a look at how the 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 Foxborough is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you with any storm damage “Like it never even happened.” 

Summer Fires Safety Tips in Foxborough

8/13/2021 (Permalink)

Fires can be caused in the summertime because of grilling outdoors, family gatherings, and celebrations.

Fires can be caused in the summertime because of grilling outdoors, family gatherings, and celebrations. There are different types of fires during the summer months: 

Grill fires: Fires from grills happen when there is mishandling of the igniting of the grill. Make sure that your grill is free of branches, roofs, or any overhang.

Air Conditioning Fires: Inadequate wiring can cause a fire. If your AC heats up, call for help immediately to ensure it doesn’t transfer to something nearby. 

Smoking Fires: Make sure to keep cigarettes properly put out before throwing them on the ground. 

Summer is a time to enjoy the outdoors, have fun, and have plenty of gatherings.

SERVPRO of Foxborough is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you with any fire damage “Like it never even happened.” 

Summer House Safety in Foxborough

8/13/2021 (Permalink)

There are still many cookouts, bonfires, and outdoor activities happening in the last weeks of summer. It is important to keep track of repairs.

There are still many cookouts, bonfires, and outdoor activities happening in the last weeks of summer. It is important to keep track of repairs and installations you can make throughout your home. 

We’ve put together all the tips you need to keep your family and home secure throughout the summer. 

• Install sun shades to your windows to deflect heat.

• Reseal any cracking caulk 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 home to protect it from insects, pests, and other creatures.

• Schedule a yearly inspection to help catch termites and stop them in their tracks before they cause major damage to your home’s structure. 

SERVPRO of Foxborough is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you with any fire damage “Like it never even happened.” 

National Grilling Season in Foxborough

7/11/2021 (Permalink)

Did you know that July is National Grilling Month? Summer is the time to enjoy the whole family together and fire up the grill.

Did you know that July is National Grilling Month? 

Summer is the time to enjoy the whole family together and fire up the grill. Enjoy the summer months by celebrating and entertaining with the best kinds of summer food.

Here are a few helpful tips for you during your grilling season: 

• Keep your grill clean: Keeping your grill clean can extend the life of your grill and it can also help your food taste the best. Stuck on grease should be cleaned, 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: When handling raw meat, it is best to wash your hands with warm soapy water. 
• Keep the food cold: Keep food cold until you are ready to cook. 
• Monitor your grill: You should never leave your grill unattended, this can cause a large fire to anything nearby. 

SERVPRO of Foxborough is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you with any fire damage “Like it never even happened.”

National Pet Fire Safety Day in Foxborough

7/11/2021 (Permalink)

National Pet Fire Safety Day is July 15th. This is a day to learn how to keep your pet safe in a fire.

National Pet Fire Safety Day is July 15th.  This is a day to learn how to keep your pet safe in a fire. 

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 near by them that can start a fire. 

Did you know that there are nearly 360,000 house fires each year in the United States? It is important to prevent fires whenever possible. 

Over 40,000 pets die every year in house fires; awareness can save lives, just by having a plan should a fire arise is critical. 

The best tip should a fire arise is to have an escape plan that includes your pets. You will want to 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 Foxborough is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you with any fire damage “Like it never even happened.”

Back to School Safety Tips in Foxborough

7/11/2021 (Permalink)

Summer is flying by and believe it or not, parents are starting to think about Back to School already. Here are safety tips for Back to School.

Summer is flying by and believe it or not, parents are starting to think about Back to School already. As the school year starts to arrive quickly we wanted to share some tips with you: 

• Be on the lookout for school zone signals, and slow down to obey all traffic laws.

• Always stop for school busses whenever applicable. 

• Watch out for school crossing guards and obey their signals.

• Be aware of children near schools, bus stops, sidewalks, in the streets, and in school parking lots.

• Never pass other vehicles while driving in a school zone.

• Avoid using a cell phone while driving in a school zone.

• Make sure a supervisor is always present when children are at the school’s playground. 

• Allow time for drop-off and pick up. Leave early enough to arrive at school at least 10 minutes prior to the start of school.

• If your child is walking to school make sure they go straight home after school. 

• Always use public sidewalks and streets when walking to school.

• If your child is walking to school, have them walk with other students. 

• Make sure to teach your children to recognize and obey traffic signals and signs.

• Teach your children to only cross streets at designated crosswalks.

• Make sure to enforce looking both ways before crossing the street.

• Make sure the bus comes to a complete stop before getting on or off.

• When riding the bus, make sure your child understands to remain seated.

SERVPRO of Foxborough is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you with any damage “Like it never even happened.”

Fireworks safety in Foxborough

6/8/2021 (Permalink)

Fireworks Safety Month is in June. Summer months are exciting with celebrations of summer, vacations, and the Fourth of July.

Fireworks Safety Month is in June. Summer months are exciting with celebrations of summer, vacations, and the Fourth of July. 

It is a fun time for outdoor activities such as barbeques. However, many like to celebrate with fireworks. Fireworks are beautiful, but can also be dangerous. 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. 

Enjoy all of your summer celebrations, but practice the necessary safety precautions while doing it.

SERVPRO of Foxborough is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and get your home back to “Like it never even happened.” 

National Insurance Awareness Day in Foxborough

6/7/2021 (Permalink)

June 28 is National Insurance Awareness Day. It is a good idea to look over your yearly insurance coverages and deductibles

June 28 is National Insurance Awareness Day. It is a good idea to look over your yearly insurance coverages and deductibles; you never know when a disaster can strike in your home. 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. Do you need supplemental flood or wind insurance? Anywhere that it can rain, it can flood. 

SERVPRO of Foxborough is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and get your home back to “Like it never even happened.”

Finish At The 50 Road Race in Patriot Place this September

6/4/2021 (Permalink)

The popular 5K race, hosted by Patriot Place and run by Harvard Pilgrim, will return this Labor Day weekend.

The Foxborough area is looking forward to the Finish At The 50 road race which is returning to Patriot Place this September. On Labor Day weekend this fall, the Harvard Pilgrim event will be finishing at the 50 yard line at Gillette Stadium, welcoming back runners to Patriot Place for the annual race. After last year's cancellation, the return of the popular 5K race is a sign of a return to normalcy, which is exciting for the community as a whole after a hard almost two years of the COVID-19 pandemic affecting the nation. Brian Earley, the vice president and general manager of Patriot Place, remarks that “The Commonwealth of Massachusetts has made incredible progress through the reopening process and we look forward to safely welcoming our runners back to this exciting annual event in 2021 and for years to come.” Registration to enter the race will be located on finishatthe50.com. 

SERVPRO of Foxborough celebrates nurses

5/6/2021 (Permalink)

Tell someone about the excellent care you’ve received from a nurse. All it takes is a simple ‘thank you.’

Did you know National Nurses Day is observed every year on May 6th? Help us raise awareness of all nurses on this day. We acknowledge the vital role nurses play in society. 

National Nurses Week is May 6th and ends on May 12th. Nurses play a vital part in our community every day. We should not only celebrate and appreciate them during this time but every day. 

HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalNursesDay

You can recognize nurses everywhere. 

Celebrate their dedication and commitment to their patients and career. 

Tell someone about the excellent care you’ve received from a nurse.

All it takes is a simple ‘thank you.’ 

When you visit a doctor, make sure to follow the instructions they give you and ask questions. 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 Foxborough is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and get your home back to “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Foxborough celebrates Cinco De Mayo

5/5/2021 (Permalink)

Do you kow that Cinco de Mayo is Spanish for “fifth of May?” Many seem to enjoy and celebrate this day.

Do you kow that Cinco de Mayo is Spanish for “fifth of May?” Many seem to enjoy and celebrate this day. 

Cinco De May’s rooted history in the Franco-Mexican War in the early years of the American Civil War. In 1860s the communities took up the banner of the Cinco De Mayo celebration as a way to celebrate the cause of freedom.

In the United States displays of banners are hung and there are events highlighting Mexican culture, music, and dancing. Schools sometimes share special events to educate students about its historical significance. 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 Foxborough  is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and get your home back to “Like it never even happened.” 

SERVPRO of Norwood Foxborough is celebrating International Firefighters’ Day 2021

5/4/2021 (Permalink)

Firefighters are our family, friends, and co-workers at SERVPRO of Foxborough.

The (NFFF) National Fallen Firefighters Foundation Observes International Firefighters’ Day 2021.

This day was established in 1999 to honor the lives of firefighters who died in a wildfire in Victoria, Australia. It helps to recognize the service and sacrifice that firefighters make daily. 

This day of recognition is the mission behind the NFFF. They help to honor and remember fallen firefighters. They assist families in rebuilding their lives but also are incredible for our community. 

Firefighters are our family, friends, and co-workers at SERVPRO of Foxborough. They respond to calls without any hesitation. They take amazing care of our community. Join us in thanking firefighters for all that they do. They work the front lines every day and 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 Foxborough is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and get your home back to “Like it never even happened.” 

Thanks to our SERVPRO of Foxborough administrative staff

4/25/2021 (Permalink)

Thank you to our administrative staff at SERVPRO of Foxborough each and every day.

Administrative Professionals Day was April 21st. We did celebrate with our staff and are a little

late to post about it. We want to share this special day with our local community.

Administrative Professionals Day is a special day to recognizes assistants and office staff. They not only help the staff members every day but also are helpful for our customers at SERVPRO.

We strive to show appreciation to our staff whenever possible; they hold us all together. It is important to show appreciation throughout the year. There are fairly simple ways to recognize a team member: candy, coffee, or just a catered lunch.

Marcel Proust -- “Let us be grateful to the people who make us happy; they are the charming gardeners who make our souls blossom.”

Thank you to our administrative staff at SERVPRO of Foxborough 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) 533-5305 for more information.

Spring Storm Tips for Foxborough, MA

4/25/2021 (Permalink)

Spring is here in Norwood West Roxbury. It is a fun time of year. However, spring can also mean strong storms.

Spring is here in Norwood West Roxbury. It is a fun time of year from the cook out’s, to sports, and gatherings. However, spring can also mean strong severe storms. There are some simple things you can do to prepare for storms before they happen.

Here are a few tips to consider:

1. Trim trees: You will want to get rid of dead branches. They could end up being dangerous in a severe storm.

2. Ensure sump pumps are working: Rainstorms can result in flooded basements. You will want to make sure they are working properly now, not when the storm comes.

3. Secure backyard items: Move any large items that can be blown away with high winds such as patio furniture, lawn chairs, propane tanks, grills, flags, and poles, to your shed, or garage.

Be ready for power outages:

1. Think ahead: Plan to have ice in your freezer before the storm arrives.

2. Use a cooler: Add any food that you want to access easily to in the cooler. This will keep

   other items in the fridge without constantly opening the fridge.

3. Extras: Check to make sure you 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 a call at (508) 533-5305, we respond faster to any size disaster.

Planning To Reopen - Latest COVID-19 Vaccine Rollout Update - Phase 3

1/14/2021 (Permalink)

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: 

(NOTE: These timelines are estimates based on current COVID-19 regulations and production capabilities.)

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:

Also, we at SERVPRO of Foxborough know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines required to ensure a safe environment for fellow members of our community. For those communities, we are here to help!

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned

The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Foxborough 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 Foxborough today for a free consultation - (508) 533-5305.

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! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!

Planning To Reopen - Latest COVID-19 Vaccine Rollout Update - Phase 2

1/13/2021 (Permalink)

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: 

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:

Also, we at SERVPRO of Foxborough know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines required to ensure a safe environment for fellow members of our community. For those communities, we are here to help!

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned

The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Foxborough 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 Foxborough today for a free consultation - (508) 533-5305.

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! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!

Planning To Reopen - Latest COVID-19 Vaccine Rollout Update - Phase 1

1/12/2021 (Permalink)

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: 

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:

Also, we at SERVPRO of Foxborough know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines required to ensure a safe environment for fellow members of our community. For those communities, we are here to help!

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned

The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Foxborough 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 Foxborough today for a free consultation - (508) 533-5305.

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! 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

1/7/2021 (Permalink)

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:

Also, we at SERVPRO of Foxborough know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines required to ensure a safe environment for fellow members of our community. For those communities, we are here to help!

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned

The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Foxborough 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 Foxborough today for a free consultation - (508) 533-5305.

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! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!

Planning To Reopen - Latest COVID-19 Update

1/6/2021 (Permalink)

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:

1. New York
2. Colorado
3. California 
4. 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:

1. The number of patients hospitalized for COVID-19 has increased again, to 2,339.
2. Of those hospitalized, 423 were listed as being in intensive care units
3. 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:

1. Restaurants
2. Movie theaters and performance venues
3. Casinos
4. Offices
5. Places of worship
6. Retail businesses
7. Fitness centers and health clubs
8. Libraries
9. Golf facilities
10. Driving and flight schools
11. Arcades
12. 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:

Also, we at SERVPRO of Foxborough know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines required to ensure a safe environment for fellow members of our community. For those communities, we are here to help!

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned

The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Foxborough 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 Foxborough today for a free consultation - (508) 533-5305.

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! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!

Travel FAQ 18-26

1/5/2021 (Permalink)

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:

Also, we at SERVPRO of Foxborough know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines required to ensure a safe environment for fellow members of our community. For those communities, we are here to help!

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned

The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Foxborough 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 Foxborough today for a free consultation - (508) 533-5305.

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! 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

12/31/2020 (Permalink)

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:

Also, we at SERVPRO of Foxborough know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines required to ensure a safe environment for fellow members of our community. For those communities, we are here to help!

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned

The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Foxborough 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 Foxborough today for a free consultation - (508) 533-5305.

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! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!

Celebrating The Holidays Safely - Travel FAQ 1-9

12/30/2020 (Permalink)

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:

Also, we at SERVPRO of Foxborough know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines required to ensure a safe environment for fellow members of our community. For those communities, we are here to help!

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned

The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Foxborough 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 Foxborough today for a free consultation - (508) 533-5305.

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! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!

Celebrating The Holidays Safely - Quarantine Guidance

12/23/2020 (Permalink)

How to Quarantine

Travelers who do not fall within the one of the three exemption categories detailed above:

1. coming from a lower-risk state,
2. meeting the 72-hour testing rule, or
3. 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:

1. Travelers, along with their travel party, must separate from all other people for 10 days.
2. Travelers must not be in public or otherwise leave the identified quarters.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. Food must be delivered to the living quarters.
7. Travelers must have a sufficient supply of face masks or face coverings to wear and must be compliant with the Massachusetts masking order.
8. Travelers are not to leave their living quarters except to receive urgent medical care.
9. 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.
10. 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.
11. 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.

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:

Also, we at SERVPRO of Foxborough know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines required to ensure a safe environment for fellow members of our community. For those communities, we are here to help!

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned

The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Foxborough 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 Foxborough today for a free consultation - (508) 533-5305.

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! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!

Celebrating The Holidays Safely - Travel Guidance

12/22/2020 (Permalink)

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:

Also, we at SERVPRO of Foxborough know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines required to ensure a safe environment for fellow members of our community. For those communities, we are here to help!

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned

The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Foxborough 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 Foxborough today for a free consultation - (508) 533-5305.

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! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!

Celebrating The Holidays Safely - Guidance

12/17/2020 (Permalink)

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:

1. Limit in-person celebrations to household members only
2. Postpone or cancel travel this holiday season. If you do choose to travel, be aware of and comply with Massachusetts travel order requirements.
3. Follow the current state gathering size limits and sector-specific workplace safety standards.

Lower-Risk Celebrations And Activities

1. Limit in-person holiday gatherings to only people you live with.
2. Host a virtual holiday dinner with extended family or friends.
3. Prepare foods for family and neighbors and deliver them in a no-contact way.
4. Virtually attend your traditional holiday activities, such as a visit with Santa.
5. Consider virtual caroling or reciting. Provide a link to your virtual caroling to the people you want to sing to.
6. View holiday lights from your car with those you live with.

Higher-Risk Celebrations And Activities

1. 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.
2. 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:
   1. has been diagnosed with COVID-19 and has not completed the isolation period;
   2. has symptoms of COVID-19;
   3. is waiting for COVID-19 viral test results;
   4. may have been exposed to someone with COVID-19 in the last 14 days; or
   5. is at increased risk of severe illness from COVID-19, such as older adults or those with certain medical conditions.
3. 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.
4. 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. 
5. If viewing holiday lights outdoors, take a one-way walk with those you live with and maintain distance from others.

Other Recommendations And Guidance

1. Always wear your mask and watch your distance. (Remove your mask only for eating and drinking.)
2. 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,
3. 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.
   1. 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.
   2. Testing information can be found at www.mass.gov/GetTested
4. Do not share food, drink, or any utensils, including serving utensils.
5. Seat people with plenty of space (at least six feet) from one another while dining.
6. Consider seating people at smaller tables in multiple rooms instead of around a large family table.
7. Improve ventilation by opening windows and doors.
8. 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.

Also, we at SERVPRO of Foxborough know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines required to ensure a safe environment for fellow members of our community. For those communities, we are here to help!

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned

The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Foxborough 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 Foxborough today for a free consultation - (508) 533-5305.

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! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!

Celebrating The Holidays Safely

12/16/2020 (Permalink)

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.

Also, we at SERVPRO of Foxborough know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines required to ensure a safe environment for fellow members of our community. For those communities, we are here to help!

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned

The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Foxborough 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 Foxborough today for a free consultation - (508) 533-5305.

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! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!

Planning To Reopen - Vaccine Update, First Responders

12/15/2020 (Permalink)

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. 

TUESDAY, December 15

• Melrose Wakefield gets shipment, begins vaccinations
• Tufts Medical Center begins vaccinations
• Massachusetts General Hospital gets shipment
• UMass Memorial Medical Center gets shipment
• Boston Children’s Hospital gets shipment
• Newton Wellesley Hospital gets shipment
• South Shore Health gets shipment

WEDNESDAY, December 16

• BMC begins vaccinations
• MGH begins vaccinations
• Beth Israel Lahey Health begins vaccinations

THURSDAY, December 17

• UMass Memorial Medical begins vaccinations

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.

Also, we at SERVPRO of Foxborough know that not every community has access to the resources necessary to meet the strict cleaning guidelines required to ensure a safe environment for fellow members of our community. For those communities, we are here to help!

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned

The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Foxborough 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 Foxborough today for a free consultation - (508) 533-5305.

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! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!

Planning To Reopen - Understanding The Rollback

12/10/2020 (Permalink)

On Tuesday Gov. Charlie Baker declared that Massachusetts will soon roll back a 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 Foxborough 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 Foxborough 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 Foxborough today for a free consultation - (508) 533-5305.

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! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!

Planning To Reopen - Rollback

12/9/2020 (Permalink)

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 Foxborough 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 Foxborough 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 Foxborough today for a free consultation - (508) 533-5305.

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! 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

12/8/2020 (Permalink)

Manufacturing

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

1. 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
2. Supply workers at workplace location with adequate cleaning products (e.g., sanitizer, disinfecting wipes)
3. Require regular and not less than daily cleaning and sanitation of all high-touch areas such as workstations, door handles, and restrooms 
4. Avoid sharing materials / equipment (e.g., goggles) or disinfect equipment between use
5. Post visible signage throughout the site to remind workers of the hygiene and safety protocols 

Recommended Best Practices

1. 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.
   1. Gloves are not a substitute for hand hygiene.
   2. If your task requires gloves, perform hand hygiene prior to donning gloves, before touching the patient or the patient environment.
   3. Perform hand hygiene immediately after removing gloves.
2. Change gloves and perform hand hygiene during patient care, if:
   1. gloves become damaged
   2. gloves become visibly soiled with blood or body fluids following a task
   3. 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
3. Never wear the same pair of gloves in the care of more than one patient
4. Carefully remove gloves to prevent hand contamination

Cleaning And Disinfecting 

1. 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
2. Conduct frequent cleaning and disinfection of site (after each shift, and more frequently if feasible)
3. Keep cleaning logs that include date, time, and scope of cleaning
4. Conduct frequent disinfecting of heavy transit areas, heavy machinery and high-touch surfaces (e.g., doorknobs, handrails, shared tools, bathrooms, elevators)
5. In event of a positive case, shut down site for a deep cleaning and disinfecting of the workplace in accordance with current guidance
6. 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 Foxborough 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 Foxborough 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 Foxborough today for a free consultation - (508) 533-5305.

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! 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

12/3/2020 (Permalink)

Manufacturing

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

1. Provide training to workers on up-to-date safety information and precautions including hygiene and other measures aimed at reducing disease transmission, including: 
   1. Social distancing, hand-washing, proper use of face coverings 
   2. Self-screening at home, including temperature and symptom checks 
   3. Importance of not coming to work if ill 
   4. When to seek medical attention if symptoms become severe 
   5. Which underlying health conditions may make individuals more susceptible to contracting and suffering from a severe case of the virus 
2. Facilities must screen workers at each shift by ensuring the following: 
   1. 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 
   2. 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
   3. Worker has not been asked to self-isolate or quarantine by their doctor or a local public health official 
   4. Workers who fail to meet the above criteria must be sent home 
3. 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
4. Limit visitors and service providers on site; shipping and deliveries should be completed in designated areas, outside the facility if possible
5. Log everyone who comes in contact with site to enable contact tracing, including temporary visitors (e.g., those doing material drop-offs)
6. 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
7. Workers must stay home if feeling ill
8. 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
9. Encourage workers to self-identify symptoms or any close contact to a known or suspected COVID-19 case to the employer 
10. 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
11. Post notice to worker and customers of important health information and relevant safety measures as outlined in the Commonwealth’s Mandatory Safety Standards for Workplace
12. Manufacturing sites should maintain operating hours that allow for on-going off-hour sanitation and cleaning
13. 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

1. 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
2. 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
3. Encourage workers 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

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 Foxborough 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 Foxborough 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 Foxborough today for a free consultation - (508) 533-5305.

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! 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

12/2/2020 (Permalink)

Manufacturing

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

1. 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
   1. 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
   2. 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
   3. Cafeterias must practice physical distancing and appropriate hygiene measures and may allow indoor and / or outdoor seating according to Restaurant guidance
   4. 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
   5. Improve ventilation for enclosed spaces where possible (e.g., open doors and windows)
2. 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
3. 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
4. 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 
5. 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
6. 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 Foxborough 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 Foxborough 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 Foxborough today for a free consultation - (508) 533-5305.

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! 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

12/1/2020 (Permalink)

Manufacturing

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  

1. 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
2. Supply workers at workplace location with adequate cleaning products (e.g., sanitizer, disinfecting wipes)
3. Require regular and not less than daily cleaning and sanitation of all high-touch areas such as workstations, door handles, and restrooms
4. Post visible signage throughout the site to remind workers of the hygiene and safety protocols
5. Avoid sharing materials / equipment (e.g., goggles) or disinfect equipment between use

Recommended Best Practices

1. 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.
2. Always wash hands that are visibly soiled.
3. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.
4. 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 Foxborough 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 Foxborough 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 Foxborough today for a free consultation - (508) 533-5305.

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! 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

11/24/2020 (Permalink)

Retail Businesses

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

1. Disinfect shared equipment, such as cash registers, intercoms, tagging machines before use by another employee
2. 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
3. Supply workers at workplace location with adequate cleaning products (e.g., sanitizer, disinfecting wipes)
4. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers with at least 60% alcohol shall be made available at entrances and throughout floor areas for both workers and customers
5. Avoid sharing equipment and supplies between workers
6. Post visible signage throughout the site to remind workers of hygiene and safety protocols

Recommended Best Practices

1. Stock up on cleaning products (e.g., sanitizer, disinfecting wipes)
2. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers stations throughout floor areas for both workers and customers

Cleaning and Disinfecting 

1. 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
2. Conduct frequent cleaning and disinfection of site (at least daily and more frequently if feasible)
3. Keep cleaning logs that include date, time, and scope of cleaning
4. Conduct frequent disinfecting of heavy transit areas and high-touch surfaces (e.g., doorknobs, bathrooms, baskets, carts, staff break rooms)
5. In event of a positive case, shut down site for a deep cleaning and disinfecting of the workplace in accordance with current CDC guidance
6. Open windows and doors to increase airflow where possible
7. 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 Foxborough 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 Foxborough 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 Foxborough today for a free consultation - (508) 533-5305.

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! 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

11/23/2020 (Permalink)

Retail Businesses

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.

1. Provide training to workers on up-to-date safety information and precautions including hygiene 4 and other measures aimed at reducing disease transmission, including:
   1. Social distancing, hand-washing, proper use of face coverings
   2. Self-screening at home, including temperature and symptom checks
   3. Importance of not coming to work if ill
   4. When to seek medical attention if symptoms become severe 
   5. Which underlying health conditions may make individuals more susceptible to contracting and suffering from a severe case of the virus 
2. Facilities must screen workers at each shift by ensuring the following: 
   1. 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 
   2. 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
   3. Worker has not been asked to self-isolate or quarantine by their doctor or a local public health official
   4. Workers who fail to meet the above criteria must be sent home
3. 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
4. Businesses should reduce operating hours to allow for on-going off-hour sanitation and cleaning
5. Limit visitors and service providers on site; shipping and deliveries should be completed in designated areas
6. Workers shall not appear for work or complete a shift if feeling ill
7. 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
8. Workers are strongly encouraged to self-identify symptoms or any close contact to a known or suspected COVID-19 case to the employer
9. 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
10. 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
11. 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
12. Limit visitors and service providers on site; shipping and deliveries should be completed in designated areas
13. Limit employee movement to discrete work zones to minimize overlap where possible

Recommended Best Practices

1. 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
2. Workers are strongly encouraged to self-identify symptoms or any close contact to a known or suspected COVID-19 case to the employer
3. Encourage workers who test positive for COVID-19 to disclose to the workplace employer for purposes of cleaning / disinfecting and contact tracing
4. 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 Foxborough 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 Foxborough 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 Foxborough today for a free consultation - (508) 533-5305.

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! 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

11/18/2020 (Permalink)

Retail Businesses

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.

1. Require face coverings at all times for all workers and customers, except where unsafe due to medical condition or disability
2. Each business must monitor customer entries and exits and limit occupancy at all times to the greater of the following:
   1. 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
   2. 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
   3. In any case, no enclosed space within the building shall exceed occupancy of 10 persons per 1,000 square feet
   4. All occupancy counts and calculations shall include customers, staff, and other workers
3. 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
4. Within enclosed shopping malls and other indoor multi-tenant retail spaces:
   1. 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.
   2. Any additional seating areas must remain closed 
   3. Any children’s play areas must be closed
   4. All arcades must follow the standards for Arcades and Other Indoor and Outdoor Game and Recreation Businesses 
5. 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
6. 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
7. Other retail stores are encouraged to offer exclusive hours or other accommodations for those in high-risk populations as defined by the CDC
8. Ensure separation of 6 feet or more between individuals where possible: 
   1. 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
   2. Physical partitions must separate workstations that cannot be spaced out (partitions must be at least 6 feet in height) 3
   3. Install physical barriers for checkout stations where possible, otherwise maintain 6 feet distance where not possible
   4. 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) 
   5. Mark rooms and hallways to indicate 6 feet separation 
9. 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
10. Contactless payment methods are encouraged
11. 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:
    1. Hand sanitizer must be made available next to beverage stations and operators must instruct customers to use before pouring beverages
    2. Only straws and stirrers individually wrapped in cellophane or paper are allowed
    3. Cups and lids must be from single pull dispenser or other method to minimize contact
    4. Sweeteners, sugars and creamers must be individual packets
    5. Floor markers must be installed to achieve social distancing 
    6. Use of personal mugs and cups are not allowed
    7. Frequent disinfecting of the beverage station must take place, even during busy times
12. 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.
13. In Phase 3 Step 1, fitting rooms may be opened for use by businesses for which their operation is necessary.
14. In Phase 3 Step 2, fitting rooms may be open for use by all retail businesses.
15. Any clothing tried on by a customer must either be quarantined for 24 hours or thoroughly steam cleaned prior to returning to the floor
16. 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 Foxborough 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 Foxborough 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 Foxborough today for a free consultation - (508) 533-5305.

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! 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

11/17/2020 (Permalink)

Retail Businesses

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

1. 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.
2. 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. 
3. These standards do not supersede the updated stay at home order issued 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 Foxborough 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 Foxborough 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 Foxborough today for a free consultation - (508) 533-5305.

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! 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

11/13/2020 (Permalink)

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 Foxborough 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 Foxborough 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 Foxborough today for a free consultation - (508) 533-5305.

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! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!

Planning To Reopen - New Orders And Advisories

11/12/2020 (Permalink)

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 Foxborough 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 Foxborough 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 Foxborough today for a free consultation - (508) 533-5305.

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! 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

11/11/2020 (Permalink)

Places Of Worship

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

1. 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
2. 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
3. Places of worship shall not have communal gathering pre or post service (e.g., coffee hours or other food services)
4. Places of worship may allow small gatherings (such as support group meetings) to be held with 25 persons or fewer
5. Places of worship running food pantries or other prepackaged food distribution may continue to do so 

Recommended Best Practices

1. 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
2. Consider setting up a no-touch method to collect contributions, and encouraging contributions through mail or electronic means
3. Places of worship are encouraged to modify communal rituals, like taking communion or passing of the peace, so as to limit contact with others
4. 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

1. Arrange the physical space to promote physical distancing
2. Eliminate materials that increase the likelihood of transmission

Cleaning and Disinfecting and Hygiene Protocols

1. 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)
2. 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
3. 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

1. Open windows and doors to increase airflow where possible
2. 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 Foxborough 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 Foxborough 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 Foxborough today for a free consultation - (508) 533-5305.

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! 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

11/9/2020 (Permalink)

Places Of Worship

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

1. Seating
   1. 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
   2. If there is fixed seating, rows should be blocked off and kept empty to allow for sufficient distancing between rows 
   3. 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 
   4. Promote ventilation for enclosed spaces where possible. For example, consider opening windows and doors to allow airflow
2. Entering and Exiting
   1. 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: 
      1. 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
      2. 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
      3. Staff should direct people in high traffic areas to help maintain social distancing
      4. Officiants or other staff should direct successive, row-by-row exiting

Recommended Best Practices

1. 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
2. Consider setting up a no-touch method to collect contributions, and encouraging contributions through mail or electronic means
3. Places of worship are encouraged to modify communal rituals, like taking communion or passing of the peace, so as to limit contact with others
4. Consider distributing, where applicable, prepackaged communion or sacraments

Face Coverings

1. All attendees and staff must wear face coverings or masks in accordance with COVID-19 Order No. 31 and the Department 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
2. 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
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
4. 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
5. 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

1. Attendees should use  anything that covers your nose and mouth.
2. Attendees face coverings should be multiple layers
3. 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 Foxborough 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 Foxborough 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 Foxborough today for a free consultation - (508) 533-5305.

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! 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

11/5/2020 (Permalink)

Places Of Worship

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:

1. 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
2. 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
3. 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:

1. 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
2. Buildings for which no permitted occupancy limitation is on record may allow 10 persons (including staff) per 1,000 square feet of accessible space
3. 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
4. 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 Foxborough 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 Foxborough 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 Foxborough today for a free consultation - (508) 533-5305.

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! 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

11/4/2020 (Permalink)

Office Spaces

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

1. 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

2. Always read and follow the directions on the label to ensure safe and effective use
   1. Wear skin protection and consider eye protection for potential splash hazards
   2. Ensure adequate ventilation
   3. Use no more than the amount recommended on the label
   4. Use water at room temperature for dilution (unless stated otherwise on the label)
   5. Avoid mixing chemical products
   6. Label diluted cleaning solutions
   7. Store chemicals safely according to the warning labels
3. 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
4. Conduct frequent cleaning and disinfection of site (at least daily and more frequently if feasible)
5. Keep cleaning logs that include date, time, and scope of cleaning
6. Conduct frequent disinfecting of heavy transit areas and high-touch surfaces (e.g., doorknobs, elevator buttons, staircases, vending machine, bathrooms)
7. Clean shared spaces (e.g., conference rooms) between use and supply cleaning products (e.g., sanitizer, disinfecting wipes)
8. In event of a positive case, shut down site for a deep cleaning and disinfecting of the workplace in accordance with current CDC guidance
9. Open windows and doors to increase airflow where possible
10. 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
11. Conduct frequent cleaning and disinfection of site (at least daily and more frequently if feasible)
12. 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)
13. 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
14. Diluted household bleach solutions can be used if appropriate for the surface. Unexpired household bleach will be effective against coronaviruses when properly diluted:
    1. 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.
    2. Follow the manufacturer’s application instructions for the surface, ensuring a contact time of at least 1 minute.
    3. Ensure proper ventilation during and after application.
    4. Check to ensure the product is not past its expiration date.
    5. Never mix household bleach with ammonia or any other cleanser. This can cause fumes that may be very dangerous to breathe in.
15. Prepare a bleach solution by mixing:
    1. 5 tablespoons (1/3^rd cup) of 5.25%–8.25% bleach per gallon of room temperature water or
    2. 4 teaspoons of 5.25%–8.25% bleach per quart of room temperature water
16. Bleach solutions will be effective for disinfection up to 24 hours.
17. Alcohol solutions with at least 70% alcohol may also be used.
18. For electronics such as tablets, touch screens, keyboards, remote controls, and ATM machines, remove visible contamination if present.
    1. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for all cleaning and disinfection products.
    2. Consider use of wipeable covers for electronics.
    3. 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

1. 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 Foxborough 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 Foxborough 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 Foxborough today for a free consultation - (508) 533-5305.

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! 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

11/3/2020 (Permalink)

Office Spaces

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.

1. Workers must wear face coverings when social distancing of 6 feet is not possible, except where unsafe due to medical condition or disability
2. Employers are encouraged to have workers continue to telework if feasible; external meetings should be remote to reduce density in the office
3. 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
4. Limit visitors and service providers on site; shipping and deliveries should be completed in designated areas
5. 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
6. Workers must stay home if feeling ill
7. 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
8. Workers are strongly encouraged to self-identify symptoms or any close contact to a known or suspected COVID-19 case to the employer
9. 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
10. 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
11. Offices should maintain operating hours that allow for on-going off-hour sanitation and cleaning
12. Allow water fountains to be used as refill stations only, provided that social distancing can be maintained. Workers should bring their own water bottles
13. 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

1. Employers are encouraged to have workers continue to telework if feasible; external meetings should be remote to reduce density in the office
2. 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
3. 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

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 Foxborough 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 Foxborough 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 Foxborough today for a free consultation - (508) 533-5305.

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! 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

10/30/2020 (Permalink)

Office Spaces

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

1. 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
2. Supply workers at workplace location with adequate cleaning products (e.g., sanitizer, disinfecting wipes)
3. Post visible signage throughout the site to remind workers of the hygiene and safety protocols
4. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers with at least 60% alcohol should be made available at entrances and throughout floor areas for workers
5. Require regular and not less than daily cleaning and sanitation of all high-touch areas such as workstations, door handles, and restrooms
6. Avoid sharing office materials / equipment or disinfect equipment between use (e.g., telephones, fax machines)

Recommended Best Practices

Staffing and Operations

1. Provide training to workers on up-to-date safety information and precautions including hygiene and other measures aimed at reducing disease transmission, including:
   1. Social distancing, hand-washing, proper use of face coverings
   2. Self-screening at home, including temperature and symptom checks 
   3. Importance of not coming to work if ill 
   4. When to seek medical attention if symptoms become severe
   5. Which underlying health conditions may make individuals more susceptible to contracting and suffering from a severe case of the virus
2. Facilities must screen workers at each shift by ensuring the following:
   1. 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
   2. 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
   3. Worker has not been asked to self-isolate or quarantine by their doctor or a local public health official
   4. Workers who fail to meet the above criteria must be sent home
3. 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
4. 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 Foxborough 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 Foxborough 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 Foxborough today for a free consultation - (508) 533-5305.

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! 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

10/29/2020 (Permalink)

Office Spaces

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 

1. Each office must monitor customer and worker entries and exits and limit occupancy at all times to the greater of the following:
   1. 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
   2. Buildings for which no permitted occupancy limitation is on record may allow 10 persons (including staff) per 1,000 square feet of accessible space
   3. In any case, no enclosed space within the facility may exceed occupancy of 10 persons per 1,000 square feet
   4. All occupancy counts and calculations shall include customers, staff, and other workers
2. 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
3. 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
   1. 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)
   2. Cafeterias must practice physical distancing and appropriate hygiene measures and may allow indoor and /or outdoor seating according to Restaurant guidance
   3. Physical partitions separating workstations must be installed for areas that cannot be spaced out. Physical partitions must be at least 6 feet in height
   4. Establish directional hallways and passageways for foot traffic if possible, to minimize contact. Post clearly visible signage regarding these policies
   5. Limit visitors where feasible, and avoid congregation in common areas (e.g., lobbies)
   6. Mark rooms and hallways to indicate 6 feet separation 
4. Designate assigned working areas (e.g., floor, building) to individuals where possible to limit movement throughout the facility and limit contact between workers
5. Stagger work schedules and improve ventilation for enclosed spaces where possible (e.g., open doors and windows)
6. Limit meeting sizes, ensure 6 feet of social distancing, and encourage remote participation
7. Stagger lunch and break times, regulating maximum number of people in one place and ensuring at least 6 feet of physical distancing
8. 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

1. 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 Foxborough 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 Foxborough 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 Foxborough today for a free consultation - (508) 533-5305.

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! 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

10/28/2020 (Permalink)

Museums And Guided Tours

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. 

1. Facilities must screen workers at each shift by ensuring the following: 
   1. 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
   2. 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
   3. Worker has not been asked to self-isolate or quarantine by their doctor or a local public health official
   4. Workers who fail to meet the above criteria must be sent home
2. Maintain a log of workers and visitors to support potential contact tracing (name, date, time, contact information)
3. Workers shall not appear for work or complete a shift if feeling ill
4. 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
5. Workers are strongly encouraged to self-identify symptoms or any close contact to a known or suspected COVID-19 case to the employer
6. 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.
7. 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
8. Post notice to workers and visitors of important health information and relevant safety measures as outlined in the Commonwealth’s Mandatory Safety Standards for Workplaces
9. 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
10. 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:
    1. Restaurants: Must follow the latest restaurant guidance
    2. Gift shops: Must follow the latest retail guidance
    3. Performance venues: Must follow the latest performance venue guidance 
    4. Events: Must follow the latest indoor and outdoor events guidance

Recommended Best Practices

1. 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
2. Workers are strongly encouraged to self-identify symptoms or any close contact to a known or suspected COVID-19 case to the employer
3. 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

1. 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
2. Conduct frequent cleaning and disinfection of site (at least daily and more frequently if feasible)
3. Keep cleaning logs that include date, time, and scope of cleaning
4. Conduct frequent disinfecting of heavy transit areas and high-touch surfaces (e.g., doorknobs, bathrooms, ticket counters, staff break rooms)
5. In event of a positive case, shut down site for a deep cleaning and disinfecting of the workplace in accordance with current CDC guidance
6. 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 Foxborough 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 Foxborough 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 Foxborough today for a free consultation - (508) 533-5305.

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! 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

10/27/2020 (Permalink)

Museums And Guided Tours

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

1. 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
2. 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
3. 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
4. All occupant counts and calculations shall include customers and workers
5. Groups of passengers should be separated on the vehicle by empty seats. If that is not possible, vehicles should stagger open rows
6. 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
7. Guides and guests should maintain 6 feet of distance and wear face coverings

Recommended Best Practices

1. Museums are encouraged to offer exclusive hours or other accommodations for those in high-risk populations as defined by the CDC
2. Encourage online ticket sales and contactless payment methods if possible
3. Consider using timed entry tickets / reservations and imposing time limits for visits to ensure compliance with occupancy limits
4. Recommend limiting tour parties to members of the same household only

Hygiene Protocols

1. 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)
2. 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
3. Avoid sharing equipment and supplies between workers 
4. Disinfect shared equipment before use by another employee
5. Post visible signage throughout the site to remind workers of hygiene and safety protocols

Staffing and Operations 

1. Provide training to workers on up-to-date safety information and precautions including hygiene and other measures aimed at reducing disease transmission, including:
   1. Social distancing, hand-washing, proper use of face coverings
   2. Self-screening at home, including temperature and symptom checks
   3. Reinforce that staff shall not coming to work if ill
   4. When to seek medical attention if symptoms become severe
   5. Which underlying health conditions may make individuals more susceptible to contracting and suffering from a severe case of the virus
2. 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
3. Facilities should maintain operating hours that allow for on-going off-hour sanitation and cleaning
4. 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 Foxborough 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 Foxborough 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 Foxborough today for a free consultation - (508) 533-5305.

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! 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

10/23/2020 (Permalink)

Museums And Guided Tours

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

1. Require face coverings for all workers and visitors, except where unsafe due to medical condition or disability
2. 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: 
   1. 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 
   2. 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
   3. In any case, no enclosed space within the facility shall exceed occupancy of 8 persons per 1,000 square feet 
3. In Phase 3 Step 2, each facility must monitor visitor entries and exits, ensure social distancing, and limit occupancy at all times to:
   1. 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
   2. 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
   3. In any case, no enclosed space within the facility shall exceed occupancy of 10 persons per 1,000 square feet
4. All occupant counts and calculations shall include customers, staff, and other workers
5. 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
6. Museums are encouraged to offer exclusive hours or other accommodations for those in high risk populations as defined by the CDC
7. Ensure separation of 6 feet or more between individuals where possible:
   1. 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
   2. Physical partitions must separate workstations that cannot be spaced out (partitions must be at least 6 feet in height)
   3. 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)
   4. Mark exhibit rooms and hallways to indicate 6 feet separation
8. 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
9. Stagger lunch and break times, regulating max number of people in one place and ensuring at least 6 feet of physical distancing
10. Encourage online ticket sales and contactless payment methods if possible
11. Consider using timed entry tickets / reservations and imposing time limits for visits to ensure compliance with occupancy limits
12. 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 Foxborough 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 Foxborough 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 Foxborough today for a free consultation - (508) 533-5305.

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! 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

10/22/2020 (Permalink)

Museums And Guided Tours

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

1. Require face coverings for all workers and visitors, except where unsafe due to medical condition or disability 
2. 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:
   1. 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 
   2. 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
   3. In any case, no enclosed space within the facility shall exceed occupancy of 8 persons per 1,000 square feet 
3. In Phase 3 Step 2, each facility must monitor visitor entries and exits, ensure social distancing, and limit occupancy at all times to:
   1. 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
   2. 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
   3. In any case, no enclosed space within the facility shall exceed occupancy of 10 persons per 1,000 square feet
4. All occupant counts and calculations shall include customers, staff, and other workers
5. 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
6. Museums are encouraged to offer exclusive hours or other accommodations for those in high risk populations as defined by the CDC
7. Ensure separation of 6 feet or more between individuals where possible:
   1. 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
   2. Physical partitions must separate workstations that cannot be spaced out (partitions must be at least 6 feet in height)
   3. Install physical barriers for ticket counters, checkout stations, etc. where possible
   4. 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)
   5. Mark exhibit rooms and hallways to indicate 6 feet separation
8. 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
9. Stagger lunch and break times, regulating max number of people in one place and ensuring at least 6 feet of physical distancing
10. Encourage online ticket sales and contactless payment methods if possible
11. Consider using timed entry tickets / reservations and imposing time limits for visits to ensure compliance with occupancy limits
12. 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

1. Museums are encouraged to offer exclusive hours or other accommodations for those in high-risk populations as defined by the CDC
2. 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 Foxborough 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 Foxborough 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 Foxborough today for a free consultation - (508) 533-5305.

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! 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

10/21/2020 (Permalink)

Fitness Centers And Health Clubs

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:

1. Weight and resistance training
2. Crosstraining
3. Yoga
4. Spin classes
5. 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.

1. Clearly designate staff responsible for sanitizing, cleaning, and supervision during each shift
2. Workers must stay home if feeling ill
3. 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
4. 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
5. 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
6. 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
7. 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
8. Operations of related services may be allowed to open and must follow sector-specific safety protocols for each setting. Some examples include: 
   1. In-facility child-care: Must follow child-care guidance
   2. Bars/food services: Must follow restaurant guidance
   3. Pools: Must follow pool guidance 
   4. Athletic facilities (e.g., tennis courts): Must follow adult and youth sports guidance
   5. Massage: Must follow close contact personal services guidance
   6. Saunas, hot-tubs, and steam rooms: May not open before Phase 4
9. Fans should not be used indoors and should only be used for outdoor classes if directed away from other customers
10. For indoor and outdoor sports guidance, please refer to the EEA Reopening Site

Recommended Best Practices

1. 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
2. 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
3. Encourage workers 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
5. Consider setting aside specific hours of operation exclusively for vulnerable populations
6. Limit employees to discrete work zones to minimize overlap where possible

Cleaning And Disinfecting

1. 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
2. Conduct frequent cleaning and disinfection of site (at least daily, and more frequently if feasible)
3. Keep cleaning logs that include date, time, and scope of cleaning
4. Conduct frequent disinfecting of heavily transited areas and high-touch surfaces (e.g., doorknobs, handrails, equipment, etc.)
5. 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
6. 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 Foxborough 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 Foxborough 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 Foxborough today for a free consultation - (508) 533-5305.

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! 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

10/20/2020 (Permalink)

Fitness Centers And Health Clubs

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:

1. Weight and resistance training
2. Crosstraining
3. Yoga
4. Spin classes
5. 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

1. 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
2. Distribute hand sanitizer and disposable wipes abundantly throughout the space for workers and customers to disinfect their hands and equipment before and after use
3. 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)
4. Require trainers to wash hands before and after each training session and sanitize frequently during each session
5. 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
6. 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
7. If sanitation (or the monitoring thereof by employees) of any piece of equipment is not possible or practical, this equipment shall be closed off
8. 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
9. Post visible signage throughout the site to remind workers and customers of hygiene and safety protocols
10. 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

1. 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
2. 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
3. Provide training to workers on up-to-date safety information and precautions including hygiene and other measures aimed at reducing disease transmission, including:
   1. Social distancing, hand-washing, proper use of face coverings
   2. Self-screening at home, including temperature and symptom checks
   3. Reinforcing that staff should not come to work if sick
   4. When to seek medical attention if symptoms become severe 
   5. Which underlying health conditions may make individuals more susceptible to contracting and suffering from a severe case of the virus
4. Adjust workplace hours and shifts (working teams with different schedules or staggered arrival / departure) to minimize contact across workers and reduce congestion
5. Require customers to sign up for classes in advance
6. Facilities must screen workers at each shift by ensuring the following: 
   1. 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
   2. 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
   3. Worker has not been asked to self-isolate or quarantine by their doctor or a local public health official
   4. Workers who fail to meet the above criteria must be sent home
7. Maintain a log of workers and customers to support potential contact tracing (name, date, time, contact information)
8. 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
9. 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 Foxborough 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 Foxborough 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 Foxborough today for a free consultation - (508) 533-5305.

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! 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

10/16/2020 (Permalink)

Fitness Centers And Health Clubs

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:

1. Weight and resistance training
2. Crosstraining
3. Yoga
4. Spin classes
5. 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

1. 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
2. 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,
3. In Phase 3 Step 1, each facility must monitor visitor entries and exits, ensure social distancing, and limit occupancy at all times to:
   1. 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
   2. 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
   3. In any case, no enclosed space within the facility shall exceed occupancy of 8 persons per 1,000 square feet
4. In Phase 3 Step 2, each facility must monitor visitor entries and exits, ensure social distancing, and limit occupancy at all times to:
   1. 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
   2. 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
   3. In any case, no enclosed space within the facility shall exceed occupancy of 10 persons per 1,000 square feet
5. All occupancy counts and calculations shall include visitors, staff, and other workers
6. 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
7. 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.
8. 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
9. Install visual markers (boundaries, walkways, signage, etc.) to encourage customers to remain at least 6 feet apart while moving throughout the space
10. 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
11. 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
12. 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
13. 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
14. Install physical partitions in areas where physical distancing is not possible, such as service counters

Recommended Best Practices

1. 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
2. Consider establishing “workout zones” to encourage spacing of customers using free weights, dumbbells, etc.
3. 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 Foxborough 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 Foxborough 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 Foxborough today for a free consultation - (508) 533-5305.

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! 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 3 of 3

10/15/2020 (Permalink)

Close Contact Personal Services - Cleaning And Disinfecting

1. Establish and maintain cleaning protocols specific to the business
2. When an active employee is diagnosed with COVID19, cleaning and disinfecting must be performed
3. Disinfection of all common surfaces must take place at intervals appropriate to said workplace
4. 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
5. Conduct frequent cleaning and disinfection of site (at least daily, and more frequently if feasible)
6. Keep cleaning logs that include date, time, and scope of cleaning
7. Conduct frequent disinfecting of heavily transited areas and high-touch surfaces (e.g., doorknobs, handrails, headrests, armrests, etc.)
8. 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
9. Disinfect or replace tools, implements and surfaces between customers (e.g., tables, finger bowls, chairs and headrests, spatulas, clippers, spacers, styling tools)
10. If tools cannot be disinfected (i.e., porous tools such as nail files, buffers, drill bits, etc.), they must be discarded after use
11. 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
12. Launder all linens, towel drapes and smocks in hot soapy water and dry completely regularly and between each use
13. 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).
14. 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.
15. 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 Foxborough 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 Foxborough 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 Foxborough today for a free consultation - (508) 533-5305.

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! 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

10/14/2020 (Permalink)

Close Contact Personal Services - Hygiene Protocols

1. 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
2. Supply workers at workplace location with adequate cleaning products (e.g., sanitizer, disinfecting wipes, disinfectant)
3. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers with at least 60% alcohol shall be made available at entrances and throughout floor areas for both workers and customers
4. Require glove changes and handwashing before and after each customer
5. 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
6. 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
7. Post visible signage throughout the site to remind workers and customers of hygiene and safety protocols

Staffing & Operations

1. Provide training to workers on up-to-date safety information and precautions including hygiene and other measures aimed at reducing disease transmission, including:
   1. Social distancing, hand-washing, proper use of face coverings
   2. Self-screening at home, including temperature and symptom checks 
   3. Reinforcing that staff shall not come to work if sick 
   4. When to seek medical attention if symptoms become severe 
   5. Which underlying health conditions may make individuals more susceptible to contracting and suffering from a severe case of the virus
2. Facilities must screen workers at each shift by ensuring the following:
   1. 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 
   2. 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
   3. Worker has not been asked to self-isolate or quarantine by their doctor or a local public health official
   4. Workers who fail to meet the above criteria must be sent home
3. Adjust workplace hours and shifts (working teams with different schedules or staggered arrival / departure) to minimize contact across workers and reduce congestion
4. Require customers to make an appointment in advance to receive service
5. Close waiting areas and ask customers to wait outside or in cars until it is time for their appointment
6. Maintain a log of workers and customers to support potential contact tracing (name, date, time, contact information)
7. Remove non-essential amenities (e.g., magazines, customer-facing water or coffee, coat rooms, etc.)
8. Workers shall not appear for work or complete a shift if feeling ill
9. 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
10. 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
11. Businesses should maintain operating hours that allow for on-going off-hour sanitation and cleaning
12. Limit visitors and service providers on site; shipping and deliveries should be completed in designated areas

Recommended Best Practices

1. 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
2. Workers are strongly encouraged to self-identify symptoms or any close contact to a known or suspected COVID-19 case to the employer
3. Encourage workers who test positive for COVID-19 to disclose to the workplace employer for purposes of cleaning / disinfecting and contact tracing
4. 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 Foxborough 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 Foxborough 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 Foxborough today for a free consultation - (508) 533-5305.

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! 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

10/13/2020 (Permalink)

Close Contact Personal Services 

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

Also, we at SERVPRO of Foxborough 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 Foxborough 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 Foxborough today for a free consultation - (508) 533-5305.

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! 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

10/9/2020 (Permalink)

Restaurants - Staffing & Operations Cont.

1. Anyone showing signs of illness may be denied entry
2. Workers must stay home if feeling ill
3. 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
4. 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)
5. 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
6. Designate the Person in Charge (105 CMR 590) for each shift to oversee implementation of the guidelines in this document
7. Restaurants will be allowed to maximize outdoor dining space, including patios and parking lots where available, where municipal approval is obtained
8. 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:
   1. 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.
   2. 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 
   3. Dance floors: Must remain closed until Phase 4 
   4. Gift shops: Must follow the latest retail guidance 
   5. Events hosted at restaurants must follow the Indoor and Outdoor Events guidance, including the capacity limitations in that guidance.

Recommended Best Practices - Staffing & Operations

1. Encourage use of technological solutions where possible to reduce person-to-person interaction (e.g., contactless payment, mobile ordering, text on arrival for seating)
2. 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
3. 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 employer for purposes of cleaning / disinfecting and contact tracing

Cleaning & Disinfecting

1. 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
2. Keep cleaning logs that include date, time, and scope of cleaning
3. Conduct frequent disinfecting of heavy transit areas and high-touch surfaces (e.g., doorknobs, elevator buttons, staircases)
4. 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
5. 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

1. Open windows and doors to increase airflow where possible

Also, we at SERVPRO of Foxborough 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 Foxborough 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 Foxborough today for a free consultation - (508) 533-5305.

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! 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

10/8/2020 (Permalink)

Restaurants - Hygiene Protocols

1. All workers must wash their hands frequently, and table servers must wash their hands or apply hand sanitizer between each table interaction
2. 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
3. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers with at least 60% alcohol shall be made available at entrances, exits, and in the dining area
4. 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
5. Self-serve, unattended buffets, topping bars, drink stations, and other communal serving areas must remain closed
6. 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
7. Menus must be one of the following:
   1. paper, single-use menus disposed after each use
   2. displayed menu (e.g., digital, whiteboard, chalkboard)
   3. electronic menus viewed on customers’ phones / mobile devices,
   4. laminated reusable menus sanitized between each use
8. Utensils and place settings must be either single-use or sanitized after each use; utensils should be rolled or packaged
9. Tables should not be pre-set to reduce opportunity for exposure
10. Tables and chairs must be cleaned and sanitized thoroughly between each seating

Staffing & Operations

1. 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
2. When taking reservations and when seating walk-in customers, restaurants should retain a phone number of someone in the party for possible contact tracing
3. 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
4. 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.”
5. 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.
6. Provide training to workers on up-to-date safety information and precautions including hygiene and other measures aimed at reducing disease transmission, including: 
   1. Social distancing, hand-washing, and requirement and proper use of face coverings 
   2. Modifying practices for serving in order to minimize time spent within 6 feet of customers 
   3. Self-screening at home, including temperature or symptom checks 
   4. Reinforcing that staff shall not come to work if sick
   5. When to seek medical attention if symptoms become severe 
   6. Which underlying health conditions may make individuals more susceptible to contracting and suffering from a severe case of the virus
7. Restaurant operators should establish adjusted workplace hours and shifts for workers to minimize contact across workers and reduce congestion at entry points
8. Limit visitors and vendors on site; shipping and deliveries should be completed in designated areas
9. Workers shall not appear for work or complete a shift if feeling ill
10. Restaurants must screen workers at each shift by ensuring the following:
    1. 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 
    2. 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
    3. Worker has not been asked to self-isolate or quarantine by their doctor or a local public health official 
    4. Workers who fail to meet the above criteria must be sent home

Also, we at SERVPRO of Foxborough 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 Foxborough 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 Foxborough today for a free consultation - (508) 533-5305.

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! 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

10/7/2020 (Permalink)

Restaurants

1. 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
2. Customers must wear face coverings unless seated at tables
3. 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
4. Restaurants must comply with the following sector specific social distancing rules for providing dining services in all customer seating areas:
   1. 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
   2. The size of a party seated at a table cannot exceed 10 people 
5. Bar seating is permitted provided that either: 
   1. There are no active work areas or working staff behind the bar at least 6 ft away; or 
   2. 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 
   3. In addition, parties must be seated at bars (no standing customer service) and parties must be spaced at least 6 feet from other parties
   4. 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. 
6. All customers must be seated; eat-in service to standing customers (e.g., around bar areas) is prohibited
7. 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
8. 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. 
9. 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. 
10. 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 
11. 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) 
12. 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 
13. 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 
14. All customer-facing workers (e.g., servers, bus staff) must minimize time spent within 6 feet of customers

Recommended Best Practices

1. 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)
2. 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
3. Minimize the use of confined spaces (e.g., elevators, vehicles) by more than one individual at a time
4. Valet parking operations should be avoided unless necessary due to physical or geographic constraints or in order to accommodate individual guests with disabling conditions
5. Valets must be provided with hand sanitizer and should use sanitizer before and after parking vehicles

Also, we at SERVPRO of Foxborough 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 Foxborough 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 Foxborough today for a free consultation - (508) 533-5305.

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! 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

10/6/2020 (Permalink)

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:

1. Follow healthy hygiene practices
2. Stay at home when sick
3. Practice social distancing 
4. Use a cloth face covering (with some exceptions) in community settings when physical distancing cannot be maintained.

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.

(See our Planning to Reopen series of blogs for more information regarding CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass DESE, and OSHA safety requirements). To review the administration's reopening guidance from the state click here. To view Governor Baker's full report click here).

Culinary Arts

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:

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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:

1. Sites follow guidelines issued by the Department of Early Education and Care,
2. The high school student’s school district must be in the designated green/unshaded zone
3. 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:

1. 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.
2. 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:

1. Provide appointment-based services only. For services provided to external customers (i.e., the public), service should be by appointment only to limit interaction.
2. 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.
3. 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:

1. Limit external customers. For external customers, graphic communications and marketing programs should utilize virtual operations.
2. Provide appointment-based services only. For services provided to external customers, service should be by appointment only to limit interaction.
3. 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 the first 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.

Also, we at SERVPRO of Foxborough 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 Foxborough 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 Foxborough today for a free consultation - (508) 533-5305.

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! 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

10/5/2020 (Permalink)

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:

1. Follow healthy hygiene practices
2. Stay at home when sick
3. Practice social distancing 
4. Use a cloth face covering (with some exceptions) in community settings when physical distancing cannot be maintained.

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.

(See our Planning to Reopen series of blogs for more information regarding CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass DESE, and OSHA safety requirements). To review the administration's reopening guidance from the state click here. To view Governor Baker's full report click here).

CVTE Program Specific Guidance

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.

1. 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.
2. Use proper eye protection. When used, face shields do not replace eye protection. Industry-standard eye protection must still be used when required.
3. Use proper hand coverings. Technical programs must follow industry guidelines on the use of protective hand coverings (gloves).
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. 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.
7. Maintain safe equipment and materials sharing practices. Sharing equipment and materials should be minimized when feasible, but it is permitted as outlined in DESE’s Guidance for Courses Requiring Additional Safety Considerations.
8. 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.
9. 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 the first 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.

Also, we at SERVPRO of Foxborough 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 Foxborough 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 Foxborough today for a free consultation - (508) 533-5305.

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! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!

Planning To Reopen - DESE Vocational Education Guidance

10/1/2020 (Permalink)

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:

1. Follow healthy hygiene practices
2. Stay at home when sick
3. Practice social distancing 
4. Use a cloth face covering (with some exceptions) in community settings when physical distancing cannot be maintained.

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.

(See our Planning to Reopen series of blogs for more information regarding CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass DESE, and OSHA safety requirements). To review the administration's reopening guidance from the state click here. To view Governor Baker's full report click here).

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

Also, we at SERVPRO of Foxborough 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 Foxborough 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 Foxborough today for a free consultation - (508) 533-5305.

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! Rest assured, we will continue to do our best to keep you up-to-date and informed!

Planning To Reopen - Baker Announcement - Phase 3, Step 2

9/30/2020 (Permalink)

Governor Charlie Baker has announced that effective Monday, October 5^th, 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:

1. Follow healthy hygiene practices
2. Stay at home when sick
3. Practice social distancing 
4. Use a cloth face covering (with some exceptions) in community settings when physical distancing cannot be maintained.

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.

(See our Planning to Reopen series of blogs for more information regarding CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass DESE, and OSHA safety requirements). To review the administration's reopening guidance from the state click here. To view Governor Baker's full report click here).

Communities At Risk

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.

1. Chelsea
2. Everett
3. Framingham
4. Holliston
5. Lawrence
6. Lynn
7. Marlborough
8. Nantucket
9. New Bedford
10. Revere
11. Saugus
12. Tyngsborough
13. Winthrop
14. Worcester
15. 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.

To view the latest DPH weekly report click here.

Phase 3, Step 2 Update

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 Foxborough 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 Foxborough 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 Foxborough today for a free consultation - (508) 533-5305.

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! 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

9/29/2020 (Permalink)

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.

Please note supplemental information can be found on the Department's website at DESE COVID-19 Information and Resources.

NOTE: COVID-19 is highly transmissible. Individuals should follow these universal precautions regardless of the extent of mitigation needed:

1. Follow healthy hygiene practices
2. Stay at home when sick
3. Practice social distancing 
4. Use a cloth face covering (with some exceptions) in community settings when physical distancing cannot be maintained.

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.

(See our Planning to Reopen series of blogs for more information regarding CDC, EPA, FDA, Mass EEA, Mass DESE, and OSHA safety requirements). To review the administration's reopening guidance from the state click here. To view Governor Baker's full report click here).

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 23^rd 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 22^nd birthday has already passed, if:

1. Your child was unable to access services during the unexpected suspension of in-person education.
2. Your child regressed or failed to make effective progress during remote learning.
3. 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.
4. No connections, or minimal attempts at connections, have been made to relevant adult agencies such as the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission, the Department of Developmental Services, or the Department of Mental Health.
5. 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.
6. Your child had been expected to fulfill the requirements for the competency determination by their 22^nd 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.

Legal rights

If you are interested in learning more about your and your child’s rights, please see the Parent's Notice of Procedural Safeguards. 

Questions About DESE’s Guidance

For questions related to this Fact Sheet please contact DESE’s

Problem Resolution Office at 781-338-3700 or compliance@doe.mass.edu. 

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 Foxborough 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 Foxborough 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 Foxborough today for a free consultation - (508) 533-5305.

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! 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

9/28/2020 (Permalink)

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.

Please note supplemental information can be found on the Department's website at DESE COVID-19 Information and Resources.

NOTE: COVID-19 is highly transmissible. Individuals should follow these universal precautions regardless of the extent of mitigation needed:

1. Follow healthy hygiene practices
2. Stay at home when sick
3. Practice social distancing 
4. Use a cloth face covering (with some exceptions) in community settings when physical distancing cannot be maintained.

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.