Recent Community Posts

SERVPRO supports our Local Sports

9/18/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Sherman/Denison supports our Local Little League Teams!
We are so very proud of the Dragonitas.

SERVPRO of Plano loves to be involved in local activities. Our community means the world to all of our staff and owner.  When we work very long hours we enjoy attending as many local little league games as possible.  We would love to support some new little league teams in the area.

If you ever need our help with a fire or water damage in your home or business give our office a call for a free estimate at 903-893-7166.

Our crew are certified in all areas water damage, fire damage and bio hazard clean up. We would love to be your go to person.

#SERVPROofshermandenison#girlssoftball#dragonitas

Summer Safety tips:

7/17/2018 (Permalink)

During extremely hot and humid weather, your body's ability to cool itself is challenged. When the body heats too rapidly to cool itself properly, or when too much fluid or salt is lost through dehydration or sweating, body temperature rises and you or someone you care about may experience a heat-related illness. It is important to know the symptoms of excessive heat exposure and the appropriate responses. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provides a list of warning signs and symptoms of heat illness, and recommended first aid steps. Some of these symptoms and steps are listed below.

–Heat Exhaustion
Symptoms:

Heavy sweating
Weakness
Cool, pale, clammy skin
Fast, weak pulse
Possible muscle cramps
Dizziness
Nausea or vomiting
Fainting
First Aid:

Move person to a cooler environment
Lay person down and loosen clothing
Apply cool, wet cloths to as much of the body as possible
Fan or move victim to air conditioned room
Offer sips of water
If person vomits more than once, seek immediate medical attention.


–Heat Stroke
Symptoms:

Altered mental state
One or more of the following symptons: throbbing headache, confusion, nausea, dizziness, shallow breathing
Body temperature above 103°F
Hot, red, dry or moist skin
Rapid and strong pulse
Faints, loses consciousness
First Aid:

Heat stroke is a severe medical emergency. Call 911 or get the victim to a hospital immediately. Delay can be fatal.
Move the victim to a cooler, preferably air-conditioned, environment.
Reduce body temperature with cool cloths or bath.
Use fan if heat index temperatures are below the high 90s. A fan can make you hotter at higher temperatures.
Do NOT give fluids.

EXTREME heat can be dangerous

6/26/2018 (Permalink)

As summer sets in, it is time to consider safety precautions for extreme heat in the coming months.

Heat affects all people, but especially the young, elderly, sick, and overweight. Urban area residents also have a greater chance of being affected than those who live in rural areas due to the heat island effect.

According to the EPA, “the sun can heat dry, exposed urban surfaces, such as roofs and pavement, to temperatures 50–90°F hotter than the air, while shaded or moist surfaces—often in more rural surroundings—remain close to air temperatures.” These surface heat islands are strongest during the day when the sun is shining, while the atmospheric heat islands are more likely after sunset “due to the slow release of heat from urban infrastructure.”

Whether you are in an urban or rural area, there are several things you can do to prepare for and prevent extreme heat from affecting you.

If possible, stay indoors in air conditioning. Be sure to check on your pets who may be outdoors or bring them inside.

Stay hydrated and limit alcohol and caffeine intake. If you must go outside, wear loose fitting, light-colored clothing, and be sure to apply sunscreen often.

Pay attention to signs of heat exhaustion, which are heavy sweating; weakness; cold, pale, and clammy skin; nausea or vomiting; and fainting, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Heat exhaustion can lead to heat stroke, which is life threatening. Signs of heat stroke are a high body temperature (103°+), rapid and strong pulse, and possible unconsciousness. If you think someone has heat stroke, call 911 immediately and move the person somewhere cool. Reduce body temperature with cool, wet cloths or a bath. Do not give a person with heat stroke fluids, and treat the situation as a serious medical emergency (CDC).

If you live in a humid climate, be aware of the heat index. The heat index factors in the humidity, which can make the temperature feel 15° hotter. Extreme heat is a serious danger. For more information on preparation and prevention, visit ready.gov or cdc.gov. 

CARBON MONOXIDE: an unknown Silent Killer

6/19/2018 (Permalink)

CARBON MONOXIDE:

A Silent Killer You can’t see or smell carbon monoxide, but at high levels, it can kill a person in minutes.

Often called the silent killer, carbon monoxide, or CO,is an invisible, odorless, colorless gas,created when fuels, like gasoline, wood,coal, natural gas and propane burn incompletely.According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), each year more than 400 Americans die from unintentional CO poisoning. Itis estimated another 20,000 visit the emergency room, and more than 4,000 are hospitalized due to CO poisoning.

All people and animals are at risk for CO poisoning, with some groups—including unborn babies, infants, and people with chronic heart disease,anemia, or respiratory problems—being more susceptible to the effects of carbon monoxide.An excess of CO, leading to CO poisoning, can result from faulty furnaces or other heating appliances,portable generators, water heaters,clothes dryers, or idling cars left running in garages.Taking some basic, precautionary steps can help eliminate the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Protect yourself by reviewing the following tips, provided by the United States Fire Administration. Have fuel-burning appliances, like oil and gas furnaces, gas or kerosene heaters, fireplaces, and wood stoves inspected by a trained professional every year.

Open the damper for proper ventilation before using a fireplace.Never use your oven or stovetop to heat your home. Make sure all fuel-burning vented equipment is vented to the outside to avoid CO poisoning. Keep the venting for exhaust clear and unblocked.

If you need to warm a vehicle,remove it from the garage immediately after starting it. Never run a vehicle or other fueled engine or motor indoors, even if garage doors are open.

Make sure the exhaust pipe of a running vehicle is not blocked with snow, ice, or other materials. Make sure vents for the dryer,furnace, stove, and fireplace are clear of snow and other debris.

Only use barbecue grills outside,away from all doors, windows,vents, and other building openings.Some grills can produce CO gas.Never use grills inside the home or the garage, even if the doors are open. Use portable generators outdoors in well-ventilated areas away from all doors, windows, vents, and other building openings to prevent exhaust fumes from entering the home.

HURRICANE SEASON IS HERE

5/30/2018 (Permalink)

It may seem early, but hurricane season is currently underway.

For the Atlantic, the season begins June 1 and runs through November 30.

The Eastern Pacific hurricane season began in mid-May and also ends November 30. Hurricanes can be life-threatening as well as cause serious property threatening hazards such as flooding, storm surge, high winds, and tornadoes. While the primary threat is in coastal areas, many inland areas can also be affected by these hazards, as well as by secondary events such as power outages as a result of high winds and landslides due to rainfall. Preparation is the best protection against the dangers of a hurricane. Plan an evacuation route and your emergency plan, take inventory of your property, and take steps to protect your home or business. 

Please contact SERVPRO of Sherman/Denison for any Fire, Smoke or Water damage needs you might have.

903-893-7166

National Women's Check up Day!

5/14/2018 (Permalink)

NATIONAL WOMEN’S CHECKUP DAY

Led by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office on Women’s Health and as part of National Women’s Health Week, the second Monday in May is National Women’s Checkup Day.

The goal of National Women’s Checkup Day 2018 maintaining regular checkups as one of five healthy habits women can do to improve their health.  Other habits we can include are physical activity, healthy diets, quit smoking and following general safety rules.

Yearly well-woman visits are important and should include discussions of your health habits and family history, setting health goals and scheduling or receiving screenings or necessary exams.  Screening would include blood pressure, cholesterol, cervical cancer and others.

SERVPRO encourages all of our staff to get regular check ups.

Relay for Life

5/14/2018 (Permalink)

Relay For Life is a chance for communities to recognise and celebrate those who have overcome cancer or are undergoing treatment, as well as the people who care for them. Relay also provides an opportunity to celebrate the memory of loved ones lost to cancer.

Relay For Life is a community-based fundraising event for the American Cancer Society. Each year, more than 5 000 Relay For Life events take place in over twenty countries. Events are held in local communities, campus universities and in virtual worlds.

Relay For Life is the signature fundraiser for the American Cancer Society. ... Join us at these events to bring communities together to remember loved ones lost, honor survivors of all cancers, and raise money to help the American Cancer Society make a global impact on cancer.

Thank you to JB for representing SERVPRO of Sherman/Denison in Relay for Life last Friday!

May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month

5/7/2018 (Permalink)

With over 5 million cases diagnosed in the United States each year, skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States. Fortunately, skin cancer is also one of the most preventable forms of cancer. About 90 percent of nonmelanoma skin cancers and 85 percent of melanoma cases are associated with exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun. By raising awareness of the dangers of unprotected exposure and encouraging sun-safe habits, we can change behaviors and save lives.

With the incidence of this disease reaching epidemic levels, we can’t do this work alone. We need your help. May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month and the perfect time to get involved.

SERVPRO of Sherman/Denison would like everyone to be active in checking for skin cancer.

International Firefighters Day

5/4/2018 (Permalink)

THANK YOU for your SERVICE!

INTERNATIONAL FIREFIGHTER'S DAY.

On December 2, 1998, a tragic event shook the Linton Community, Australia and the world. Firefighters in Linton, Australia- a populated region in Victoria- were fighting a large bush fire and called for mutual aid. This urgent mutual aid call brought the Geelong West Fire Brigade to the scene not knowing the despair and tragedy that was in store. Garry Vredeveldt, Chris Evans, Stuart Davidson, Jason Thomas, and Matthew Armstrong all loaded into company’s truck. They were part of a strike team and were being sent to help extinguish the flames. As the five headed into the hot zone, the wind suddenly switched direction, engulfing the truck in flames and killing all five members. This unfortunate incident is what inspired JJ Edmondson to bring about an international holiday, called International Fire Fighters Day, to support the lives lost and dedicated fire fighters who risk their lives every day to save life and property.One of the most significant symbols of International Fire Fighters Day is the red and blue ribbon. This ribbon is cut precisely five centimeters long and one centimeter wide, with the two separate colors conjoined at the top. JJ Edmonson chose red and blue because the red stood for the element of fire whereas the blue would represent the element of water. Coincidentally, red and blue are also the colors recognized world-wide to signify emergency services; therefore, red and blue being the best choice of color to recognize an international holiday. The ribbon is traditionally worn on the lapel-otherwise known as the fold of fabric on a shirt- but is not limited to that certain spot. Some people may also put it on their cars visors, hats, hang them in windows or off of car mirrors, or even hang them from trees in their front lawn. The places this ribbon can be placed are plentiful- just be creative! The red and blue ribbon is a simple but yet effective way to show support for International Fire Fighters Day.

National Love Your Pets Day!

2/20/2018 (Permalink)

NATIONAL LOVE YOUR PET DAY

On February 20th, pet lovers everywhere observe National Love Your Pet Day.  This holiday is a day set aside to give extra attention to and pamper your pets.  This is a good day to focus on the special relationship that you have with your pets.

Did you know that most households in the United States have at least one pet?  While there are more cats than dogs in the United States, more households have dogs than cats, but not by much. Pets are not limited to the canine and feline categories.  There are quite a few who prefer the companionship of birds, reptiles, fish or rats.  Whoever your pet companion is, we are sure you will enjoy spending a little extra time with them on National Love Your Pet Day and reap the benefits, as well such as stress relief and lower blood pressure.  So on February 20 (and every day) show your appreciation to your pets!

HOW TO OBSERVE

Bring your pet a special treat, take an extra long walk or give them more attention on National Love Your Pet Day.  Whatever you decide to do, spoil and appreciate your pets! 

Happy President's Day

2/19/2018 (Permalink)

Presidents' Day in the United States

Washington's Birthday, also known as Presidents' Day, is a federal holiday held on the third Monday of February. The day honors presidents of the United States, including George Washington, the USA's first president.

What Do People Do?

Washington's Birthday officially honors the life and work of George Washington, the first president of the United States. The day commemorates past presidents of the USA. Washington's Birthday is sometimes known as Presidents' Day. This is because while most states have adopted Washington's Birthday, some states officially celebrate Presidents' Day.

Some states pay particular attention to Abraham Lincoln, as his birthday was also in mid-February. In the weeks or days leading up to the holiday, schools often organize events and lessons for students about the presidents of the United States and George Washington in particular. It is a popular day for stores to start their sales.

The US federal holiday is on the third Monday of February each year, but records show that George Washington's birthday is on February 22.

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY

2/14/2018 (Permalink)

THE LEGEND OF ST. VALENTINEThe history of Valentine’s Day–and the story of its patron saint–is shrouded in mystery. We do know that February has long been celebrated as a month of romance, and that St. Valentine’s Day, as we know it today, contains vestiges of both Christian and ancient Roman tradition. But who was Saint Valentine, and how did he become associated with this ancient rite? Did You Know?Approximately 150 million Valentine's Day cards are exchanged annually, making Valentine's Day the second most popular card-sending holiday after Christmas. The Catholic Church recognizes at least three different saints named Valentine or Valentinus, all of whom were martyred. One legend contends that Valentine was a priest who served during the third century in Rome. When Emperor Claudius II decided that single men made better soldiers than those with wives and families, he outlawed marriage for young men. Valentine, realizing the injustice of the decree, defied Claudius and continued to perform marriages for young lovers in secret. When Valentine’s actions were discovered, Claudius ordered that he be put to death. Other stories suggest that Valentine may have been killed for attempting to help Christians escape harsh Roman prisons, where they were often beaten and tortured. According to one legend, an imprisoned Valentine actually sent the first “valentine” greeting himself after he fell in love with a young girl–possibly his jailor’s daughter–who visited him during his confinement. Before his death, it is alleged that he wrote her a letter signed “From your Valentine,” an expression that is still in use today. Although the truth behind the Valentine legends is murky, the stories all emphasize his appeal as a sympathetic, heroic and–most importantly–romantic figure. By the Middle Ages, perhaps thanks to this reputation, Valentine would become one of the most popular saints in England and France.

National Sticky Bun Day

2/14/2018 (Permalink)

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NATIONAL STICKY BUN DAY

National Sticky Bun Day is observed annually on February 21st.

Originally known as “schnecken” and still considered to be a Philadelphia specialty, it is believed that the sticky bun’s origin in the United States began in the 18th century when the German settlers brought baking tradition with them when they began settling near Pennsylvania.

Most often served for breakfast or as a dessert, sticky buns consist of rolled pieces of leavened dough that often contain brown sugar and sometimes cinnamon.  Before the dough is placed in the pan, the pan is lined with sticky sweet ingredients such as maple syrup, honey, nuts, sugar and butter.  When the buns are finished baking, they are then flipped upside down so that the sticky bottom becomes the topping.

Happy FAT TUESDAY

2/13/2018 (Permalink)

Fat Tuesday is the day before Ash Wednesday. It is also known as Mardi Gras Day or Shrove Day. It is a day when people eat all they want of everything and anything they want as the following day is Ash Wednesday, the beginning of a long fasting period for Christians.

Related popular practices are associated with Shrovetide celebrations before the fasting and religious obligations associated with the penitential season of Lent. In countries such as the United Kingdom, Mardi Gras is also known as Shrove Tuesday, which is derived from the word shrive, meaning "confess".

 Mardi Gras and Carnival are the same celebration. Though Mardi Gras technically refers only to Fat Tuesday, the Mardi Gras season actually begins on Epiphany, a Christian holiday celebrated on January 6 that is otherwise known as Three Kings Day or the Twelfth Day of Christmas.

Clean Out your Computer Day

2/12/2018 (Permalink)

 Feb 12  Clean Out Your Computer Day

Have you been putting off cleaning out those old files on your desktop? Well, today is the day you should do it, because it is Clean Out Your Computer Day.

Started in 2000 by the Institute of Business Technology, the day falls on the second Monday in February.

How to Celebrate

  • Backup your computer, including all your files, documents, and pictures.
  • Clean out your desktop. Delete or archive files that you have no use of or haven’t used in several months.
  • Organize your folders, files and bookmarks.
  • Uninstall all the programs you no longer used.

Did You Know…

…that the Perottina was the world’s first commercially marketed desktop? Launched in 1964, the computer was named after its inventor Pier Giorgio Perotto.

National Boy Scouts Day

2/8/2018 (Permalink)

NATIONAL BOY SCOUTS DAY

Since 1910, boys across America have been doing good deeds, learning survival skills and developing moral foundations through the Boy Scout of America.  February 8th annually recognizes National Boys Scouts Day.  

The Boy Scouts of America has roots in the British Boy Scouts organization which was created in 1908 after the success of the book Scouting for Boys by Robert Baden-Powell.

On a foggy day in London an American newspaperman, William Dickson Boyce, became lost when a Boy Scout came to his assistance. With the boy’s guidance, Boyce arrived at his destination. When Boyce offered payment for the assistance, the Boy Scout refused explaining it was a good deed.

Boyce was inspired to organize similar youth groups into one organization. On February 8, 1910, Boyce filed papers of incorporation, and the Boy Scouts of America was born.

Boy Scouts have had a profound impact on the United States.  Many presidents and other dignitaries have been Boy Scouts.  A total of 181 Astronauts have also been a part of the Boy Scout program.

National Send A Card To a Friend Day

2/7/2018 (Permalink)

February 7 is Send a Card to a Friend Day.

Stay Connected

While we all love our friends and would like to keep in touch with them all the time, daily life can sometimes make it hard to stay connected. If you are unable to keep up with the lives and times of your friends, then Send a Card to a Friend Day is the prefect excuse to take some time during the day to write a note to a dear friend to let them know you are thinking of them.

How to Celebrate?

  • Celebrating this holiday is very simple. Take some time out of your busy day and write notes to your friends.
  • Everyone loves a handwritten note, but if you can’t do that send them an e-card or even an email. No one will judge you as long as they hear from you.

Did You Know…

…that the earliest known greeting card is a Valentine’s Day card thought to have been sent sometime in the 1400s?

Dr. Seuss Day!

2/7/2018 (Permalink)

NATIONAL READ ACROSS AMERICA DAY (DR. SEUSS DAY)

National Read Across America Day is an annual event that is part of Read Across America, an initiative on reading that was created by the National Education Association.

Each year, National Read Across America Day is celebrated on March 2nd, the birthday of Dr. Seuss.  However, if it falls on a weekend, it is observed in the school systems on the school day closest to March 2nd.  This day is a motivational and awareness day, calling all children and youth in every community across the United States to celebrate reading.

HOW TO OBSERVE

Pick up an interesting book and read it.  More importantly, read with a child. 

NATIONAL BACKWARDS DAY

1/31/2018 (Permalink)

YAD DRAWKCAB LANOITAN

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 January 31st honors everything backward.  National Backward Day is an opportunity to reverse our ways, our direction or simply our shirt.  Dessert for breakfast, perhaps? There are many ways to celebrate this fun day, so just let your imagination be your guide.  

This day is very popular with school-aged kids, but there is no age limit on who can participate in all of the backward fun. So EVERYONE, let’s have some fun!! 

FUN FACT:  Leonardo da Vinci wrote backward.  Not only did the artist and inventor write from right to left, but he also wrote his letters backward.

HOW TO OBSERVE

Do things backward and use #NationalBackwardDay to post on social media.

HISTORY

Within our research, we were unable to identify the creator of National Backward Day.  

There are over 1,500 national days. Don’t miss a single one. Celebrate Every Day with National Day Calendar!

Most Popular Dog Breeds

1/30/2018 (Permalink)

5 Of The Most Popular Dog Breeds In The World

ByMike Clark  

There are plenty of obscure dog breeds out there, but some breeds just rise to the top more than others. These dog breeds are so popular that almost everyone in the world has heard of them, seen them, or lives with them. In fact, if you ask a stranger to picture a dog in their mind, chances are good it will be one of these breeds. The most popular dog breeds in the world can be found in dog shows, in homes, and even as hard workers in all kinds of fields. Here are the most popular dog breeds in the world and some of the reasons they’re so famous.

5. Beagle

(Photo Credit: Shutterstock)

You may remember the Beagle breed from the film Shiloh, or you may recognize the most famous Beagle ever, Snoopy, the dog from the Peanuts comic strip. If you take one look at a Beagle, it’s easy to see the appeal. They have adorable, puppy-dog eyes, floppy ears, and soft features. And they have a very friendly personality to match. But most of all, they have powerful noses. They’re scenthounds, which means they were bred to rely mostly on their sense of smell to hunt. They are still used for this purpose today.

In fact, all of these traits make them the perfect choice for working in airports around the world. They’re friendly and cute, so they don’t intimidate people, and they have great sniffers, which helps them detect contraband, even in a crowded airport. This began in 1984 when the U.S. Department of Agriculture started using Beagles to detect illegal food products being brought into Los Angeles International Airport. The Beagle was so successful that the “Beagle Brigade” still patrols 20 international airports and points of entry into the U.S. today!

4. Poodle

(Photo Credit: Shutterstock)

The Poodle held the title of most popular breed in the United States for almost 20 years. While they may seem prim and proper to those who have only seen the fancy-hairdo-wearing pups from dog shows, those familiar with Poodles know just how friendly and loyal they can be. And that fancy hairdo may be for show today, but it once served an important purpose. Poodles were originally bred to be waterfowl hunters. Their fur would be cut short in places to prevent being caught by underwater debris, but was left long around the joints and organs to protect the dog from cold water.

Their biggest asset is their intelligence. Circus performers recognized their talent for learning tricks, and their fur was perfect for styling into a visual spectacle for shows. These days, Poodles continue to dazzle audiences with their obedience and agility feats, which earn them high honors in many dog shows. Their friendly nature, intelligence, and “hypoallergenic” status makes them highly sought-after for interbreeding with other dogs, leading to the rise in popularity of breeds like the Goldendoodle.

3. German Shepherd

(Photo Credit: Shutterstock)

The German Shepherd owes his popularity, at least in part, to the dog who saved HollywoodRin Tin Tin. But the German Shepherd has kept his status as one of the ten most popular breeds in the United States with its ability to be trained to do just about anything. They work as assistants to the disabled, police dogs, military dogs, therapy dogs, search and rescue dogs, contraband sniffing dogs, and herding dogs among other jobs.

German Shepherds are loyal, sometimes to a fault, and must be socialized early on to be friendly to other dogs and humans. But they make excellent guard dogs for this reason. They are naturally suspicious, so if an intruder breaks in to a German Shepherd’s home, he’s likely to have a hard time getting away without some teeth marks. The German Shepherd’s reputation as an intelligent, trainable dog with a strong sense of loyalty makes it a favorite as a worker dog and as a regular companion.

2. Bulldog

(Photo Credit: Shutterstock)

The Bulldog may have one of the most unique looks in the world of dogs. Perhaps it is their easily recognized appearance that draws it such popularity. Or maybe it’s their friendly, albeit lazy demeanor. In fact, it’s this good nature that separates it so strongly from the ancestors they originate from. The Bulldog was bred in England from Mastiff dogs for the purpose of bull baiting, which was a bloody, vicious sport that involved the dog biting the nose of a bull and shaking it. Eventually the sport was outlawed, and the Bulldog lost its purpose as a working dog.

Rather than let the Bulldog fall by the wayside, patient breeders selected only the kindest, most pleasantly-tempered members of the breed to reproduce. So the Bulldog we have today has none of the vicious tendencies of its forefathers. Still, their unique body structure causes joint and respiratory problems. They tend to be overweight and lazy, they snore, they have excessive gas, and they’re sensitive to extreme temperatures. Even with all these problems, they are one of the most beloved and popular breeds in the world. Their looks may be both their biggest asset and their biggest downfall.

1. Labrador Retriever

(Photo Credit: Shutterstock)

The Labrador Retriever is the most popular breed in the United States. And if you’ve ever met a Labrador Retriever, it’s easy to see why. They’re incredibly friendly and loyal, great for families, and perfect companion dogs. In fact, they’ve been made famous by art, books, and movies, like Old Yellerand Marley & Me. But a good natured personality isn’t the Labrador Retriever’s only strength. They were bred to be working dogs. It won’t take you long to notice that Labrador Retrievers love the water. That’s because they originated in Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada, where they accompanied fisherman and helped with work on the ship. The loyal Labrador would haul in nets, fetch ropes, and catch fish that got off the hook.

Labradors may not be helping fishermen as much today, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t working dogs. Labrador Retrievers are employed as assistance dogs for the disabled, therapy dogs, search and rescue dogs, and hunting companion dogs. Their intelligence and pleasant demeanor make them great at working with humans. The only job they’re not so talented at is being watchdogs. They’re too friendly, even to intruders. But their loving nature and adaptability make them the most popular dog breed in America.

Light the Night...Safely

12/12/2017 (Permalink)

The American Red Cross offers the following safety tips to help greatly reduce the fire risk in your home this holiday season.

*Place Christmas trees, candles and other holiday decorations at least three feet away from heat sources like fireplaces, portable heaters, radiators, and heat vents.

*Make sure that light strings and other holiday decorations are in good working condition. Do not use anything with frayed electrical cords and always follow the manufacturer's instructions.

*Always unplug tree and holiday lights before leaving the property or going to bed.

* Remove your real Christmas tree as soon as possible from your home due to being very flammable as the tree continues to dry out any spark can ignite the tree.

If you happen to suffer from a smoke damage to your property Please contact SERVPRO of Sherman/Denison for a non obligation free estimate on smoke damages.

903-893-7166

SERVPRO of Sherman/Denison wishes you a safe and Happy Holiday Season!

Tax Holiday on Emergency Preparedness Supplies?

4/21/2016 (Permalink)

In this season of severe weather, the Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar is raising awareness of the Emergency Preparation Supplies Sales Tax Holiday, April 23-25. Now is the time to stock up on all your disaster supplies and save in the process. You can find the information below at

http://comptroller.texas.gov/taxinfo/taxpubs/ tx98_1017.html.

You can purchase certain emergency preparation supplies tax free during the 2016 Emergency Preparation Supplies Sales Tax Holiday. There is no limit on the number of qualifying items you can purchase, and you do not need to issue an exemption certificate to claim the exemption. This year’s holiday begins at 12:01 a.m. on Saturday, April 23, and ends at midnight on Monday, April 25.

These emergency preparation supplies qualify for tax exemption if purchased for a price:

Less than $3000:

  • Portable generators

Less than $300:

  • Hurricane shutters
  • Emergency ladders

Less than $75:

  • Batteries, single or multipack (AAA cell, AA cell, C cell, D cell, 6 volt or 9 volt)
  • First aid kits
  • Fuel containers
  • Ground anchor systems and tie-down kits
  • Hatchets
  • Axes
  • Mobile telephone batteries and mobile telephone chargers
  • Nonelectric coolers and ice chests for food storage
  • Nonelectric can openers
  • Portable self-powered light sources (hand cranked flashlights)
  • Portable self-powered radios, including two-way and weather band radios
  • Reusable and artificial ice products
  • Smoke detectors, fire extinguishers and carbon monoxide detectors
  • Tarps and other plastic sheeting

These supplies do not qualify for tax exemption:

  • Batteries for automobiles, boats and other motorized vehicles
  • Camping stoves
  • Camping supplies
  • Chainsaws
  • Plywood
  • Extension ladders
  • Stepladders
  • Tents
  • Repair or replacement parts for emergency preparation supplies
  • Services performed on, or related to, emergency preparation supplies

Additional Charges Affect Purchase Price Delivery, shipping, handling and transportation charges are part of the sales price. If the emergency preparation supply being purchased is taxable, the delivery charge is also taxable. Consider these charges when determining whether an emergency preparation supply can be purchased tax free during the holiday.

For example, you purchase a rescue ladder for $299 with a $10 delivery charge, for a total sales price of $309. Because the total sales price of the ladder is more than $300, tax is due on the $309 sales price.

For more information, contact us at comptroller.texas.gov/taxhelp, or call 1-800-252-5555. Pub. 98-1017 March 2016