We are delighted to announce our sponsorship of the First Responder Relay in Las Vegas on October 16th. The First Responders Relay is a 9 person 48-mile running relay with stages ranging from 4.0 miles to 7.7 miles. The relay is competition comprised of first responder personnel from throughout the United States and the World, and is hosted by the California Police Athletic Federation (CPAF).
There is still time to register, but don't delay! Registration closes September 18. Visit www.CPAF.org to join us in Las Vegas!
#HELPFIRST FOR FIRST RESPONDERS
Bio-One Donates First Aid Kits in Recognition of National Police Week
Des Moines, IA (May 13, 2021) – In recognition of National Police Week, May 9-15, Bio-One thanked first responders by donating first aid kits to the Polk County Sheriff’s office, as well as to other Des Moines metro police departments, as part of the nationwide campaign #HelpFirst for First Responders. Throughout the week, Bio-One offices in 41 states distributed a cumulative of 5,000 first aid kits, which included alcohol swabs, Advil, gloves, gauze pads, and an assortment of bandages.
The #HelpFirst campaign aligns with the Bio-One motto, Help First, Business Second, and will be used to help officers and community members in the event of a minor medical emergency.
“Bio-One is proud to Back the Blue and do what we can to support our local law enforcement community.” said Joel Akers, owner of Bio-One. “We are active in events like National Night Out, Urbandale Police Department's Trunk or Treat, and the Des Moines Police Burial Association. These events allow us to help with their community outreach efforts and to help support our fallen officers locally.”
As a 2021 corporate sponsor of the Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund, Bio-One, Inc. will also pay tribute to fallen officers during the virtual 33rd Annual Candlelight Vigil on May 13 at 8:00 p.m. The event will be broadcasted live on Facebook, YouTube, and LawMemorial.org/CV.
“We are so thankful for Bio-One’s corporate partnership and their continued support of the Memorial Fund,” said Marcia Ferranto, CEO of the National Law Enforcement Memorial Fund. “This partnership will further bolster the Memorial Fund’s mission of honoring America’s Law Enforcement, as well as provide support for the Museum’s upcoming exhibition opening in September. We are grateful for their commitment.”
Established in 1984, the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund is a nonprofit organization dedicated to honoring the fallen, telling the story of American law enforcement, and making it safer for those who serve. The Memorial Fund maintains the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, D.C., which honors the names of all of the 22,611 officers who have died in the line of duty throughout U.S. history.
About Bio-One
Bio-One, a crime and trauma scene cleaning franchise, operates throughout the state of Iowa with a focus on Des Moines and surrounding areas. Bio-One is committed to providing excellent service in recovery and suicide cleanup, homicide cleanup, disinfection services, hoarding situations, junk removal, mold remediation, feces removal, pest and rodent droppings and much more. Each Bio-One office is independently owned and operated by a member of the local community. For more information about Bio-One, visit us at www.bioonedesmoines.com.
The California Police Athletic Federation (CPAF) is proud to announce that the 2021 United States Police & Fire Championships (USPFC) are now Presented by Bio-One, Inc.
Operating under the motto, "Help First, Business Second," Bio-One provides high-level decontamination and biohazard cleanup services while offering clients the privacy and compassion needed at difficult times. Bio-One operates in 41 states with over 110 locations and is committed to providing first-class service.
"We are thrilled to add Bio-One as the Presenting Sponsor for the 2021 USPFC because First Responders warrant our support," said California Police Athletic Federation President LC Collins. "Bio-One’s reputation is second to none, and with their partnership, we can offer first responders a health and wellness outlet. We look forward to working with them for years to come."
Founded by San Diego Police Lieutenant Veon "Duke" Nyhus, The United States Police & Fire Championships were first held in San Diego in 1967. Duke recognized the need to promote physical fitness and camaraderie among the Public Safety and First Responder community members.
The USPFC caters to active and retired public safety and first responders who participate in Olympic-style competitions and open to individuals representing firefighters, law enforcement, and officers from corrections, probation, border protection, immigration, and customs across the country. Traditionally athletes compete in 45+ sporting events from biathlon to motocross across 35+ venues in Southern California.
"At Bio-One our support for Law Enforcement and Fire Service Officers is unwavering, and we're thrilled to partner with the California Police Athletic Federation during this memorable event," said Nick-Anthony Zamucen, founder of Bio-One. "We wish each athlete success and look forward to celebrating these everyday heroes."
The 2021 USPFC Presented by Bio-One will take place from June 10th to the 19th in venues across San Diego, California, and strengthen the relationship between First Responders and the community for many years to come!
About the United States Police and Fire Championships
The California Police Athletic Federation (CPAF) is the parent organization of two multi-sport programs designed for peace officers and firefighters. The World Police & Fire Games (WPFG) are open to active and retired law enforcement and fire service personnel throughout the world. The United States Police & Fire Championships (USPFC) are open to active or retired public safety and first responder personnel from an eligible agency within the USA. For more information, please visit www.uspfc.org.
The second week of April is a time to celebrate and thank telecommunications professionals who dedicate their lives to serving the public. Often called the thin gold line, 911 dispatchers are true heroes behind the scenes.
"This week-long event, initially set up in 1981 by Patricia Anderson of the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office in California, is a time to celebrate and thank those who dedicate their lives to serving the public. It is a week that should be set aside so everyone can be made aware of their hard work and dedication." - Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials (APCO) International
Here, in Iowa, our Bio-One team would like to say "Thank You" to the 911 dispatchers that are critical to our communities.
If buying or selling a home in Iowa is in your future, you're likely well versed the entire process from the initial offer to closing. But are you aware that disclosing a death in the home may be required? Here's what you need to know.
Property Disclosure Documents
No matter how perfect a house looks on the outside, there is often property information a buyer needs to disclose before the sale can go through. Property disclosure documents reveal known structural issues, neighborhood nuisances, hazards, HOA details, water damage, notable repairs made to the home and death in the home.
Rules for reporting a death in the home vary by state, and variations in rules may include:
So what are the rules in Iowa? Here are the details:
Iowa requires sellers to provide a written property disclosure to a potential buyer or their agent, either before they have presented a written offer or before the seller has accepted such offer, and it must be presented either in person, by certified/registered mail, or by electronic delivery. Iowa Code §558A governs the rules around property disclosures and the information required to be included.
Iowa requires disclosures relating to the condition and important characteristics of the property and any structures on the property (think of detached garages, garden sheds, etc.). This can include, but is not limited to any important zoning classifications, condition of major mechanical systems, presence of pests, roof repair/replacements and other items.
While most people understand a home's 'sale' requires such disclosure, the rules also apply to others transfers per the definitions in Iowa code, such as between joint tenants, a transfer between spouses as part of a divorce decree, quitclaim deeds, etc.
Though Iowa does not specifically require disclosure of a death on or in the property, if there was an incident and the seller was aware of remediation (or lack thereof) that could reasonably present a physical, structural or biological risk for the buyer, a seller/transferor is obligated to provide information in good faith. Withholding of information can leave you liable for damagers incurred by the buyer/transferee.
For a state by state guide on disclosure laws we recommend visiting this resource on Nolo.com.
Remediating After a Death in a Home
If a death recently occurred in the home you're hoping to purchase, there may have been biohazards from blood-borne pathogens that required remediation. Consider asking the seller how the death was remediated to ensure proper steps were taken. Remediation processes may vary depending on the location of the death, how the death occurred, types of flooring, and if the death was undiscovered for days or weeks.
Bio-One technicians are trained and equipped to properly disinfect biohazards from blood-borne pathogens, and we ensure safe biohazard material handling and disposal. Once the entire area is cleaned of blood and body fluids, we can also help property owners coordinate restoration to a location's pre-incident state.
If you are selling a home and need a biohazard remediated or want to ensure remediation was done correctly, give Bio-One a call at 515-776-1044 or complete this request form for a free estimate. Our experts not only contain and disinfect the dangerous biological materials, we carry out our work in a caring and private manner.
Bio-One earns IICRC certification
At Bio-One, we are always striving to learn and ensure we remain on top of industry training and standards. As part of our commitment to continuous improvement, we are proud to be an IICRC (Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification) Certified Firm. Adding to our OSHA and MICRO Mold training and certifications, Bio-One will follow the Standards set by this international organization to guide us on proper techniques for every job. This certification demonstrates to both our customers and employees our drive for quality, reliability, safety and effectiveness.
Bio-One ranked number one in Entrepreneur magazine’s 42nd Annual Franchise 500 for success in crime-scene and trauma-scene cleaning. This marks the fifth year in a row that Bio-One has been included in the ranking.
DES MOINES, IA – Bio-One ranked number one in Entrepreneur magazine’s 42nd Annual Franchise 500 for success in crime-scene and trauma-scene cleaning. This marks the fifth year in a row that Bio-One has been included in the ranking.
Bio-One is locally owned and operated by Joel and Jean Akers, proudly serving many community members, businesses and government agencies across Iowa.
Bio-One provides service in recovery and suicide cleanup, homicide cleanup, mold remediation, hoarding situations, coronavirus and other disinfection services, mold remediation, decomposition/undiscovered death, feces removal, pest and rodent droppings and more.
"We often say we hope we never hear from you, but we will be there when we are needed." said Joel Akers, Owner of Bio-One. "The "Help First, Business Second" motto is reflected in the way we respond to calls and provide our services without drawing attention to our presence. We are proud to be a part of such a caring and successful team."
The number of Bio-One franchises have increased 145 percent in the last three years with over 100 locations in 41 states.
“We’re honored to be recognized by Entrepreneur,” said Nick-Anthony Zamucen, CEO of Bio-One Inc. “The ranking is a direct reflection of our Bio-One family, strength of our business model, and our ability to consistently deliver care and compassion to our clients.”
Over its 42 years in existence, the Franchise 500® has become both a dominant competitive measure for franchisors and a primary research tool for potential franchisees. Bio-One’s position on the ranking is a testament to its strength as a franchise opportunity.
About Bio-One Inc.
Bio-One Inc. is the first crime and trauma scene cleaning franchise, operating in 41 states with over 100 locations. Bio-One is committed to providing excellent service in recovery and suicide cleanup, homicide cleanup, hoarding situations, junk removal, deceased animal recovery, feces removal, pest and rodent droppings and much more. Each office is independently owned and operated by a member of the local community. For more information about Bio-One, visit us at BioOneDesMoines.com.
Losing a life under any circumstance is deeply heartbreaking. Suicide can make the situation even more difficult for several reasons - it is often sudden, may involve a violent circumstance, is unexpected and those left behind often have a range of emotions including shame, anger, abandonment, fear and guilt. Taking the time to give support to a loved one can really make a difference in the grieving process. Focus on providing compassion and empathy as well as holding space for their emotions. It is important to understand that when you are supporting a loved one who has lost someone close to suicide, there are specific resources to help you both each step of the way.
Being Available for Emotional Support
When you hear that your loved one has been affected by suicide, make it a point to reach out to them and check in about their needs. One main way you can provide emotional support during this time is to be a listening ear. They will need someone who will acknowledge the events that they just experienced as well as provide emotional validation. Be mindful of judgment and keep advice very practical. They may need time before they talk about what they experienced or they may need you to listen closely to their thoughts at this time.
Everyone has their own way of grieving so it’s important to respect their grieving process. It may take months before they start feeling like themselves again or they may be able to keep going about their day-to-day life without much effort. Try to regularly check in with them whether it’s with a phone call, a supportive note or going over and hanging out with them. It is also important to check in with yourself so that you still maintain your own well-being. Both you and your loved one must be able to have a supportive and safe environment to allow room to process emotions.
If you would like a more information on emotional support, Harvard Health Publishing provides a more in-depth advice in this article.
Options for Practical Support
While you’ve been providing emotional support, there are some practical ways to make this time easier for your loved one. Offer to help with various tasks that may seem overwhelming to survivors. Offer to draft a death announcement for them, make calls to other family members as well as friends. Help with shopping and other errands, or assistance with contacting a funeral home. When they are ready, help with taking care of the deceased's belongings - things your loved one may want donated or preserving treasured memories in an album.
If the incident happened at your loved one’s home, gather information on scene remediation services. Bio-One provides professional and compassionate suicide clean-up services. We are trained professionals who are experienced in handling situations with care. It’s easy to request our services through our website or a phone call. Bio-One believes in help first and business second. Our vehicles are free of advertising to provide the utmost discretion and privacy to all involved.
This is a time when people need an incredible amount of support. Encourage your loved one to look into a support group where they can find emotional help and understanding with others experiencing similar feelings and emotions.
For support in Iowa, you can refer to our Resources page at BioOneDesMoines.com. Other resources are available through NAMI Iowa, Polk County Crisis & Advocacy Services, Central Iowa Trauma Recovery Center, Suicide.org, Des Moines Pastoral Care, and thru your church.
Photo by Anna Tarazevich from Pexels
Maybe you’ve been more irritable than usual or have less patience to deal with work and you seem to be snapping at everyone. Throughout life, we all experience stress which leaves us drained and lonely. But sometimes we’re too overwhelmed to notice how close we are to cracking. It’s important to know when it’s time to take a rest and slow down on the amount of tasks. The state of one’s mental health isn’t something to overlook. Noticing the warning signs of too much stress is important and with this article, we hope to help you see them sooner than later so you can help yourself or a loved one.
Understanding when you’re dealing with too much stress is beneficial for both your mental and physical health. Many of us grew up feeling like dealing with high amounts of stress was a normal part of life. It’s as if we are conditioned to take on as much work as possible before burning out - a strange badge of honor for sure. But it may also lower ones quality of life. Sometimes it can be hard to notice when you’re dealing with high amounts of stress. You may not have enough time throughout your day to sit back and take care of yourself.
When your body is stuck in a stress response to day-to day-situation, this causes your heart rate to elevate, your breath to quicken, your muscles to tighten, and your blood pressure to rise even without you being consciously aware of your physical response. This can make you feel drained even if you got enough rest or cause the quality of your sleep to be impacted. While different people can handle different amounts of stress, it’s important to not overdo it. Other physical symptoms of stress are having low energy, aches and pains, and even show up as an upset stomach or intestinal issues.
It’s important to be aware of when stress impacts sleep as well as eating habits, as those can lead to greatly affecting one’s physical, emotional and cognitive health. High stress can make someone very sensitive to others, moody, and easily agitated. It can cause one to avoid social interactions, affect judgment, focus, and create greater anxiety (we have previously shared some ways to help with anxiety in this earlier blog post). Learning to manage stress can help you or those you care about minimize or avoid these extremes. Mayo Clinic has some common sense and practical information available to help with stress management.
While having stress every so often is usually no cause for concern, dealing with consistently high stress can lead to other serious health problems. Prolonged stress can greatly impact one’s mental health and lead to depression as well as chronic anxiety. Feeling overwhelmed with even the simplest of daily tasks like cleaning, removing trash and staying organized can lead to a bigger and more difficult situation.
You are not alone, there are many resources available to help you or a loved one through tough times. Bio-One has a list of some additional resources for help in your search. If you or someone you care about is in need of our services, please contact us at info@BioOneDesMoines.com, online or call us at 515-776-1044.
Taking small steps each day to help bring more mindfulness and peace is a good start on reducing stress. When needs become greater, do not be afraid to seek help.
Photo by JESHOOTS.COM on Unsplash
At Bio-One, we are experts at remediation. We use the right techniques, equipment, methods and chemicals to properly treat your business or home. Whether you need help with an unattended death, extreme hoarding, virus decontamination, mold remediation or any other bio-hazardous situation, we provide discreet help. When the need is greatest, call us.