Archive for April, 2012

Apr
20

Helping Your Family “Go Green” for Earth Day

April 20th, 2012 by Rainbow International

It is becoming more and more important for us to reduce pollution and help save our environment. Read these tips and tricks to help your family get started on a new eco-friendly lifestyle!

  • Save water by decreasing your shower time – or take a bath. It uses less water.
  • Brush your teeth with the water off.
  • Recycle – most things can be recycled now days including junk mail, cell phones, paper products, plastic, etc.
  • Switch from paper and plastic bags to reusable bags and totes.
  • Forget the electric or gas dryer, and air dry your clothing.
  • Unplug your appliances when you leave the house to save energy (and prevent a fire hazard).
  • Use refillable beverage containers instead of disposable water bottles.
  • Opt for direct deposit, online banking, and paperless statements to reduce paper use.
  • Purchase fresh fruits and vegetables, instead of jarred, canned, or frozen.

Don’t forget, Earth Day is this coming Sunday, April 22nd. But with these tips you can make everyday Earth Day!

Apr
16

Tornado Season Arrives Early

April 16th, 2012 by Rainbow International

Tornado season is only just beginning, but this year has already seen many destructive twisters from Illinois to Texas.

Here are some tips to help you prepare for tornado season, some of which could possibly save your life.

1. Prepare Your Tornado Plan – The first thing you need to do is designate your “shelter room.” If your house doesn’t have an underground storm shelter, you should choose an area that is the lowest, smallest and most central. This is often a cellar or basement. It could also be a central hallway or bathroom. Stay as far away as possible from windows.

2. Prepare Your Tornado Kit – Every household should have an emergency kit that is easily accessible when tornado conditions arrive. This kit should include:

  • Flashlight
  • Battery-powered radio or TV
  • Extra batteries
  • First aid kit
  • Sturdy shoes
  • Identification and cash
  • Spare set of keys to vehicles

3. Act Quickly – If your area is in a tornado warning, don’t waste time. Grab your tornado kit, pillows and blankets and get to your shelter room immediately. Use the radio to listen to weather broadcasts, and don’t leave until the danger has passed. Use pillows and blankets, arms and hands to cover your neck and head.

4. Know Your Aftermath Plan – Your entire family should have a designated area to meet just in case you are separated. Treat anyone who may be injured, but don’t move them if they appear to be seriously injured.

5. Stay Calm – Being prepared and staying calm will increase your response time, ensure you make the right decisions and often save lives.

Tips:

  • Never stay in a car or mobile home during a tornado. You are safer outside in the lowest area.
  • Never try to outrun a tornado. They can change direction at any moment.
  • Never take cover beneath a bridge or overpass.
  • Never go outside to watch a tornado. Take cover immediately.
Apr
10

Rainbow International of Columbia, SC. Teams Up With RMHC

April 10th, 2012 by Rainbow International

Reed Mattingly, owner of Rainbow International of Columbia, SC. decided to make a difference in his local community. The 4th Annual Spring Cleaning, benefiting Ronald McDonald House of Columbia, was held on March 9, 2012.

Rainbow International was one of several local businesses that came together to clean, repair and perform maintenance on the 29 year-old house. Ronald McDonald staff members say the support allows the charity to focus on providing a safe and clean environment for the roughly 350 families who stay there each year while their children are being treated in hospitals.

Since the spring cleanup event began in 2009, it has provided in-kind services and gifts valued at $50,000.

Watch the video: http://on.wltx.com/HsKHEl

Apr
5

Franchisee Appreciation Day

April 5th, 2012 by Rainbow International

Yesterday was Rainbow International’s Franchisee Appreciation Day!

Our team secretly planned the event and filmed a video in honor of our franchisees and all of the hard work they do. We wanted to do something to really thank them for being such a great part of our family, and show our appreciation for their commitment to helping others.

After all, they are why our company exists and is so successful in leading the service industry!

Be sure to watch the video and bloopers.

We Love Our Franchisees Video

We Love Our Franchisees Bloopers