Drake Haigh - SERVPRO Northwest Lake County

Dave and Drake dive into Drake's journey from Libertyville to Grayslake, his work in water restoration, fire remediation, and trauma cleanup, and his passion for community. The conversation is a delightful mix of professional insights and playful anecdotes, including Drake's first vehicle—a 1999 Harley-Davidson—and his hidden talent for making people laugh. They also discuss the importance of preparedness, local business support, and the rewarding nature of helping families recover from disasters. Tune in for a heartwarming and informative episode!

Discovering Grayslake: Community, Resilience, and Preparedness with Servpro

Welcome to another insightful episode of "Discovering Grayslake," where we delve into the heart of our community, exploring the stories and experiences that make Grayslake a unique and vibrant place to live. In this episode, host Drake Haig sits down with Drake, a representative from Servpro, a company specializing in water restoration, fire remediation, and trauma cleanup. Broadcasting from the bustling Agora Coworking space, the conversation covers a range of topics from disaster preparedness to the importance of community support. Let's dive into the key takeaways and actionable advice shared during this engaging discussion.

The Journey to Grayslake: A Personal Story

Drake, the guest, shares his journey from Libertyville to Grayslake, highlighting his background in criminal justice and business management. After spending eight years in Phoenix working for a similar restoration company, he and his wife decided to return to the Midwest to raise their children in the family-friendly environment of Lake County. This personal narrative sets the stage for understanding the deep-rooted community values that drive his work at Servpro.

Understanding Servpro's Comprehensive Services

Water Restoration, Fire Remediation, and Trauma Cleanup

Servpro is a one-stop shop for various restoration needs, managing everything from initial cleanup to the reconstruction of homes and businesses. This comprehensive approach allows them to support clients through some of their most challenging times, often forming lasting relationships with those they help.

The Importance of Preparedness

Drake emphasizes the need for homeowners to regularly review their insurance policies, especially as property values increase. Many people may not realize that their coverage limits may not reflect the current value of their homes or belongings. Here are some actionable tips:

Review Your Insurance Policy Annually**: Ensure your coverage limits are up-to-date with the current value of your home and belongings.
Ask About Specific Coverage**: Inquire about additional riders for items like sump pumps, which often require extra coverage.
Document Your Belongings**: Keep an updated inventory of your possessions, including photos and receipts, to facilitate the claims process in case of a disaster.

The Emotional Impact of Restoration Work

Drake shares anecdotes about the emotional connections formed with clients, who often become like family during the lengthy restoration process. The rewarding aspect of helping families return to their homes after a disaster is a recurring theme, highlighting the personal satisfaction derived from making a positive impact in people's lives.

Community Involvement and Support

Local Business Collaboration

The conversation touches on the camaraderie among local business owners, showcasing how they come together to support community initiatives. Drake shares a heartwarming story about collaborating with Myra, a local barber, and John from The Freeze, to sponsor a back-to-school program for underprivileged children. This initiative involved providing backpacks and meals, exemplifying the spirit of collaboration and community support.

Volunteering and Board Membership

Drake emphasizes the fulfill