WELCOME to the latest e-dition of ABLE IN ACTION. Here you’ll find all kinds of interesting and insightful information about the very issues we all deal with every day in the restoration and recovery industry. You’ll also learn about smart tips that could save your life and techniques that could make your life easier.

We hope you find ABLE IN ACTION a great resource and a fun read. Enjoy.

Jeff Sabel, Able Restoration, Inc

Able stopped by the Shriner's Hospital during the Children's Holiday Carnival bearing gifts right before Christmas Eve on December 22nd. The kids were ecstatic at the sight of all the presents and we hope we were able to add a little bit of Holiday cheer to the group!

Since 1968, Shriners Hospital has been a world leader in pediatric burn care, research and education. Each year, the hospital admits more than 1,000 children and treats more than 5,000 children on an outpatient basis. All medical treatment and services are provided at no charge to patients, families, insurance companies or third parties. Shriners even cover the cost of transportation and accommodations.

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Home Explosion Rocks Neighborhood

If you've seen the local Massachusetts news recently, then you're well aware of the huge explosion in Scituate that has seen widespread coverage. Aside from the house that was destroyed by it, 20 neighboring houses were damaged and windows were broken up to one-third of a mile away. Able immediately responded to the scene and was asked by the Scituate Fire Department and Public Works to board up windows and doors that had been damaged. The Able team worked into the night clearing debris from area "We were happy to help the people put pieces of their lives back together," said Jeff Sabel of Able. You can read more about the blast here: wickedlocal.com.

"As a public employee, I was thankful they were there." — Scituate Department of Public Works director Al Bangert, commenting on Able Restoration.

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How to Avoid and Handle Frozen Pipes

Fresh packed snow beckons you. Or maybe a sun-filled cruise. Before you take off, be sure to take all of the necessary precautions to keep your home safe. Able’s winterizing process drains your heating system and pipes, preventing them from bursting under the pressure of water freezing and expanding. One quick call and you can leave knowing your home is protected.

Here are a few things to note:

• Don't turn your thermostat below 55 degrees
• Shut off your hot water before leaving for a vacation
• Open cabinet doors to allow heat to reach pipes in hidden areas such as under your sink
• If your pipes have frozen, turn off the main water valve in your house, keep your faucets turned on and call a plumber
• Never try and thaw a pipe with a blow torch or using electricity near standing water

Why Space Heaters Continue To Take The Heat

Different types of space heaters present different safety problems. Unfortunately, human error is at the top of the list with children and pets at the greatest risk of getting burned or hurt. Here are some tips to help keep you safe:

• Tell your sales person the size of the area you want to heat and ask questions about the different types of units.
• Select a space heater with a guard around the flame or heating area. This will keep pets and children away from the heat source.
• Read and follow the manufacturer's operating instructions.
• Read warning labels to all members of the household so that everyone understands how to operate the heater safely.
• Never leave a space heater on when you go to sleep or leave the house.
• Keep your heater in safe working condition. Replace missing guards and controls at once.
• Never EVER operate a defective heater.

For more important information about space heater safety, visit the CPSC website.

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Emergency Response Program Saves Time And Property

Disaster strikes. You're confused. Anxious. Not sure what to do. Able can help. We've developed a new way to reduce our response time. Simply register and our Emergency Response Program will give you the peace of mind of knowing we know who you are, where you are, the type of structure, your contact information, insurance provider and other relevant information. In the event of a disaster, all you have to do is make one call to the Able Emergency Line and in seconds we'll have the information we need to get onsite immediately. If you haven't registered your business, now's the time. Over 1000 properties have been registered to date, is yours? Learn more now!

Power Up! with Able's Emergency Power Division

So there's a storm, fire or faulty wiring and the power goes down. No problem. Able electricians are available 24/7. So next time you lose power, pick up the phone and call us. We'll have it up and running within 2 hours by temporary service or by using one of our trailer mounted generators. At Able, we have master electricians on staff to service MA, NH and RI and if you're a member of our Emergency Response Program you'll receive a discount on electrical services!

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ABLE ON THE MOVE

Plenty of activities and events happening throughout 2009. Be sure to save these dates:

• DKI Insights Conference, The Property Restoration Industry Conference and Trade Show, February 22 – 26, Scottsdale, AZ. For more information go to www.insightconference.com.
• 4th Annual Disaster Relief Golf Tournament, Monday, June 22nd at Granite Links Golf Club. All proceeds go to the Shriner's Hospital for Children in Boston. Plan on playing for a great cause. To view photos of last year's sold-out event please visit our Events page.