Fire Safety when Grilling

6/21/2023 (Permalink)

At home grilling is an activity that almost everyone enjoys and should be conducted safely with a few precautions. If one is not careful, grill fires may break out occasionally causing causalities of the food, surrounding area, and sometimes people. Here are some things you should keep in mind when grilling this summer to prevent grill fires: 

• Don't leave the grill unattended
• Clean the grill after use to prevent flare ups
• Remove flammable items from around the grill
• Keep your grill in good condition, never operating a faulty grill 
• Keep a fire extinguisher nearby for necessary situations
• Insure connections between the gas tank and grill are secure
• Never cook too close to a building

Home Fires 

A grill fires that grows into a home fire can be a damaging and stressful event. The best way to recover in this situation is by calling professional fire remediation company. These companies have qualified teams prepared to restore any damage caused by smoke, soot, or fire. 

Barbecue Fires
What do you do when your barbecue catches on fire? Remain calm. Check that there is nothing flammable near the grill. It is important that the fire stay contained in order to prevent further damage. If possible, turn off the burners and the line from the gas tank. If necessary, use a fire extinguisher to quench flames, otherwise the fire should decrease naturally and go out on its own. If handled properly, a grill fire may ruin your food but at least your home is spared. 

Keep The Home Safe From Fire

6/14/2023 (Permalink)

Keeping your family safe from fire during the holidays is so important.

Cooking fires are common during Thanksgiving and the holidays. The US Fire Administration has quite a few tips and suggestions on their website to help with fire safety during the holidays. 

If you or your loved one has recently suffered from a fire, be sure to contact SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom to help you with your restoration needs. Call us 24/7 at 916-987-0400. 

Are you considering frying a turkey for Thanksgiving?  Please consider the 

Five dangers of deep frying a turkey:

1. Turkey fryers can easily tip over, spilling hot cooking oil over a large area.
2. An overfilled cooking pot will cause cooking oil to spill when the turkey is put in, and a partially frozen turkey will cause cooking oil to splatter when put in the pot.
3. Even a small amount of cooking oil spilling on a hot burner can cause a large fire.
4. Without thermostat controls, deep fryers can overheat oil to the point of starting a fire.
5. The sides of the cooking pot, lid and pot handles can get dangerously hot.

For more information visit the US Fire Administration website: https://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/outreach/cooking.html

If you need help with your emergency visit: http://www.SERVPROfairoaksfolsom.com/. If you have a water or fire emergency be sure to call SERVPRO of Fair Oaks/Folsom at 916-525-1241 so we can help you today!

You can follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SERVPROfairoaksfolsom

Is Your Items Fire Free

6/14/2023 (Permalink)

Fire not only affects the structure of your home but it also affects your belongings. SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom is here to help! SERVPRO understands your furniture, keepsakes, clothing and belongings are extremely important to you. SERVPRO understands that some of these items are essential to making a house a home. 

Being overwhelmed is a totally reasonable response after a fire. We are here to make this awful situation better for you. When necessary, SERVPRO can complete move-outs and pack-outs for you! If your home requires extensive restoration or cleaning due to the damage from the fire, we can organize an efficient move-out of contents from the affected area. Move-outs allow for a quicker rebuild/remodeling and protects contents from damage during the remodel. While the rebuild/remodel process occurs, your items can be inventoried and cleaned at our office.

Need immediate help? SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom is here to take care of you – call 916-987-0400! We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. 

Soot And Smoke Damage

6/2/2023 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? Call Us Today – SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom 916-525-1241.

If you need help with your fire emergency visit http://www.SERVPROfairoaksfolsom.com/fire-smoke-damage-restoration to find out how SERVPRO is able to help you.

Is There A Fire Plan?

6/2/2023 (Permalink)

CalFire has many great resources to help prepare you for a wildfire near you. Here is some information to get you started.  CREATE A WILDFIRE ACTION PLAN Your Wildfire Action Plan must be prepared, and familiar to all members of your household well in advance of a wildfire. Use the checklist below to help create your plan. Each family’s plan will be different, depending on a variety of issues, needs, and situations.

YOUR WILDFIRE ACTION PLAN CHECKLIST
Create an evacuation plan that includes:

• A designated emergency meeting location outside the fire or hazard area. This is critical to determine who has safely evacuated from the affected area.
• Several different escape routes from your home and community. Practice these often so everyone in your family is familiar in case of emergency.
• Have an evacuation plan for pets and large animals such as horses and other livestock.
• A Family Communication Plan that designates an out-of-area friend or relative as a point of contact to act as a single source of communication among family members in case of separation. (It is easier to call or message one person and let them contact others than to try and call everyone when phone, cell, and internet systems can be overloaded or limited during a disaster.)

Be Prepared:

• Have fire extinguishers on hand and train your family how to use them (check expiration dates regularly).
• Ensure that your family knows where your gas, electric, and water main shut-off controls are located and how to safely shut them down in an emergency.
• Assemble an Emergency Supply kit for each person, as recommended by the American Red Cross. (See next section for details.)
• Maintain a list of emergency contact numbers posted near your phone and in your emergency supply kit.
• Keep an extra Emergency Supply Kit in your car in case you cannot get to your home because of fire or other emergency.
• Have a portable radio or scanner so you can stay updated on the fire.
• Tell your neighbors about Ready, Set, Go! and your Wildfire Action Plan.

If you have suffered from a wildfire and need fire damage restoration, SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom is here to help. Call us 24 hours a day at 916-987-0400 or visit our website for more information on all our services: www.SERVPROfairoaksfolsom.

Fire Restoration Services and Facts

4/18/2023 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? Call Us Today – SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom 916-987-0400.

If you need help with your fire emergency visit http://www.SERVPROfairoaksfolsom.com/fire-smoke-damage-restoration to find out how SERVPRO is able to help you.

Those Fire Damage Facts

2/22/2023 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? Call Us Today – SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom 916-525-1241.

If you need help with your fire emergency visit http://www.SERVPROfairoaksfolsom.com/fire-smoke-damage-restoration to find out how SERVPRO is able to help you.

House Fire Tips

2/22/2023 (Permalink)

House fires can be devastating for a family. You may never truly feel prepared, but there are steps you can take to become prepared. The American Red Cross has gone to great lengths on their web page providing tips and suggestions on home fire prevention. 

The 7 Ways to Prepare for a Home Fire

1. Install the right number of smoke alarms. Test them once a month and replace the batteries at least once a year.
2. 
   Teach children what smoke alarms sound like and what to do when they hear one.
3. 
   Ensure that all household members know two ways to escape from every room of your home and know the family meeting spot outside of your home.
4. 
   Establish a family emergency communications plan and ensure that all household members know who to contact if they cannot find one another.
5. 
   Practice escaping from your home at least twice a year. Press the smoke alarm test button or yell “Fire“ to alert everyone that they must get out.
6. 
   Make sure everyone knows how to call 9-1-1.
7. 
   Teach household members to STOP, DROP and ROLL if their clothes should catch on fire.

For more details visit:

http://www.redcross.org/get-help/prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/fire/home-fire-preparedness

If you need help with your fire emergency visit http://www.SERVPROfairoaksfolsom.com/fire-smoke-damage-restoration to find out how SERVPRO is able to help you.

If you have a water or fire emergency be sure to call SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom at 916-525-1241 so we can help you today!

You can follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SERVPROfairoaksfolsom

Keep Free Holiday Fire Damage

12/29/2022 (Permalink)

Keeping your family safe from fire during the holidays is so important.

Cooking fires are common during Thanksgiving and the holidays. The US Fire Administration has quite a few tips and suggestions on their website to help with fire safety during the holidays. 

If you or your loved one has recently suffered from a fire, be sure to contact SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom to help you with your restoration needs. Call us 24/7 at 916-987-0400. 

Are you considering frying a turkey for Thanksgiving?  Please consider the 

Five dangers of deep frying a turkey:

1. Turkey fryers can easily tip over, spilling hot cooking oil over a large area.
2. An overfilled cooking pot will cause cooking oil to spill when the turkey is put in, and a partially frozen turkey will cause cooking oil to splatter when put in the pot.
3. Even a small amount of cooking oil spilling on a hot burner can cause a large fire.
4. Without thermostat controls, deep fryers can overheat oil to the point of starting a fire.
5. The sides of the cooking pot, lid and pot handles can get dangerously hot.

For more information visit the US Fire Administration website: https://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/outreach/cooking.html

If you need help with your emergency visit: http://www.SERVPROfairoaksfolsom.com/. If you have a water or fire emergency be sure to call SERVPRO of Fair Oaks/Folsom at 916-525-1241 so we can help you today!

You can follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SERVPROfairoaksfolsom

Smoke And Soot Cleanup For Your Area

11/16/2022 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? Call Us Today – SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom 916-525-1241.

If you need help with your fire emergency visit http://www.SERVPROfairoaksfolsom.com/fire-smoke-damage-restoration to find out how SERVPRO is able to help you.

Family Safety During The Holidays

11/16/2022 (Permalink)

Keeping your family safe from fire during the holidays is so important.

Cooking fires are common during Thanksgiving and the holidays. The US Fire Administration has quite a few tips and suggestions on their website to help with fire safety during the holidays. 

If you or your loved one has recently suffered from a fire, be sure to contact SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom to help you with your restoration needs. Call us 24/7 at 916-987-0400. 

Are you considering frying a turkey for Thanksgiving?  Please consider the 

Five dangers of deep frying a turkey:

1. Turkey fryers can easily tip over, spilling hot cooking oil over a large area.
2. An overfilled cooking pot will cause cooking oil to spill when the turkey is put in, and a partially frozen turkey will cause cooking oil to splatter when put in the pot.
3. Even a small amount of cooking oil spilling on a hot burner can cause a large fire.
4. Without thermostat controls, deep fryers can overheat oil to the point of starting a fire.
5. The sides of the cooking pot, lid and pot handles can get dangerously hot.

For more information visit the US Fire Administration website: https://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/outreach/cooking.html

If you need help with your emergency visit: http://www.SERVPROfairoaksfolsom.com/. If you have a water or fire emergency be sure to call SERVPRO of Fair Oaks/Folsom at 916-525-1241 so we can help you today!

You can follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SERVPROfairoaksfolsom

Fire You Better Prepare Yourself

10/18/2022 (Permalink)

No need to worry about area wildfires. If one is near your home, be sure to call SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom to clean up the smoke damage. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Every fire damage situation is a little different and requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same. When various materials burn, the soot they create differs greatly and requires a specific cleaning procedure. The steps listed below illustrate our process for the “typical” fire damage restoration. Learn more about our fire damage restoration process.

1. Emergency Contact
2. Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment
3. Immediate Board-Up and Roof Tarp Service (if needed)
4. Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)
5. Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces
6. Cleaning and Repair
7. Restoration

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – (916) 987-0400

Clean Fire Belongings

8/26/2022 (Permalink)

Fire not only affects the structure of your home but it also affects your belongings. SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom is here to help! SERVPRO understands your furniture, keepsakes, clothing and belongings are extremely important to you. SERVPRO understands that some of these items are essential to making a house a home. 

Being overwhelmed is a totally reasonable response after a fire. We are here to make this awful situation better for you. When necessary, SERVPRO can complete move-outs and pack-outs for you! If your home requires extensive restoration or cleaning due to the damage from the fire, we can organize an efficient move-out of contents from the affected area. Move-outs allow for a quicker rebuild/remodeling and protects contents from damage during the remodel. While the rebuild/remodel process occurs, your items can be inventoried and cleaned at our office.

Need immediate help? SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom is here to take care of you – call 916-987-0400! We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. 

What It Takes After A Fire

8/26/2022 (Permalink)

After any fire damage situation, your primary focus should be safety:

• Is it safe to stay in the house?
• Electrical and "slip and fall" hazards are some of the most prevalent concerns.
• Only do activities that are safe for you to perform.
• Wet materials can be VERY heavy. Be careful!

What To Do After A Fire

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpets.
• Keep hands clean so as not to further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork.
• Place clean towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas.
• If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator and prop doors open.
• Clean and protect chrome with light coating of petroleum jelly or oil.
• Wash houseplants on both sides of leaves.
• Change HVAC filter.
• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers.

What NOT To Do After A Fire

• Don't attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces or shampoo carpet or upholstery without contacting your SERVPRO Franchise Professional.
• Don't attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire, heat or water without consulting an authorized repair service.
• Don't use any canned or packaged food or beverages that may have been stored near the fire, heat or water.
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. The wiring may be damaged.
• Don't send garments to an ordinary dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set smoke odor.

Need immediate help? Please call SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom 916-987-0400. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We can handle your emergency.

When To Approach After Fire Trucks Leave

8/26/2022 (Permalink)

Once the fire trucks leave, the first step to clean up and restoration is the board-up. This is part of the emergency services provided by SERVPRO. Firefighters will often break windows and cut holes in the roof to help air out the property from all the smoke and heat. The board-up is essential to secure your property from theft and liability.

How The Smoke Travels

Even small-scale fires in a home can result in large amounts of fire and smoke damage. If your HVAC (your heater or A/C) system is on, then the smoke will most likely enter through the return vents and be spread throughout the duct system. This will not only carry the smoke and the smoke damage throughout the house but also cause smoke damage to your ducts.

Your ducts might have dust throughout the system, which can absorb the smoke, meaning every time your air conditioner or heater turns on, you'll smell the residual smoke for weeks and months after the fire.

Get The Water Out As Soon As Possible

Making A Fire Plan

7/8/2022 (Permalink)

CalFire has many great resources to help prepare you for a wildfire near you. Here is some information to get you started.  CREATE A WILDFIRE ACTION PLAN Your Wildfire Action Plan must be prepared, and familiar to all members of your household well in advance of a wildfire. Use the checklist below to help create your plan. Each family’s plan will be different, depending on a variety of issues, needs, and situations.

YOUR WILDFIRE ACTION PLAN CHECKLIST
Create an evacuation plan that includes:

• A designated emergency meeting location outside the fire or hazard area. This is critical to determine who has safely evacuated from the affected area.
• Several different escape routes from your home and community. Practice these often so everyone in your family is familiar in case of emergency.
• Have an evacuation plan for pets and large animals such as horses and other livestock.
• A Family Communication Planthat designates an out-of-area friend or relative as a point of contact to act as a single source of communication among family members in case of separation. (It is easier to call or message one person and let them contact others than to try and call everyone when phone, cell, and internet systems can be overloaded or limited during a disaster.)

Be Prepared:

• Have fire extinguishers on hand and train your family how to use them (check expiration dates regularly).
• Ensure that your family knows where your gas, electric, and water main shut-off controls are located and how to safely shut them down in an emergency.
• Assemble an Emergency Supply Kitfor each person, as recommended by the American Red Cross. (See next section for details.)
• Maintain a list of emergency contact numbers posted near your phone and in your emergency supply kit.
• Keep an extra Emergency Supply Kitin your car in case you cannot get to your home because of fire or other emergency.
• Have a portable radio or scanner so you can stay updated on the fire.
• Tell your neighbors about Ready, Set, Go! and your Wildfire Action Plan.

If you have suffered from a wildfire and need fire damage restoration, SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom is here to help. Call us 24 hours as day at 916-987-0400 or visit our website for more information on all our services: www.SERVPROfairoaksfolsom.

Licensed & Ready!

6/29/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.

IICRC has many tips and suggestions for consumers. Please consider the following information from the IICRC regarding fire and smoke restoration:

In the wake of a fire that has covered homes with smoke and ash, it’s important to begin clean up as soon as possible in order to prevent permanent damage or discoloration from soot residue. The IICRC provides the following tips for fire victims facing clean up:

• Practice safety first. Use a dust mask (like painters use) and gloves as you work.
• Ventilate the home. Place a box fan in an open window to draw the air and dust out.
• Clean from top to bottom. Start with the ceilings, walls and fixtures, and work your way down to the contents of the room, then to the floor.
• Vacuum floors and upholstery. Make sure your vacuum cleaner has a high efficiency filter. Otherwise, you risk blowing soot back into the air.
• Some draperies, clothing and machine-washable items may be laundered. Use a mild alkaline cleaner to neutralize the acid in the soot. Fine clothing should be dry cleaned.
• Most exterior walls (brick, stone, wood, paint, siding) and eaves can be cleaned by spraying with a detergent, agitating soot with a soft-bristled brush, pressure washing from bottom to top, then rinsing from top to bottom.
• If the damage and residue are heavy, it may be best to hire a professional to thoroughly restore your home and belongings.
• Check with your insurance company to see if smoke damage from outdoor sources is covered by your policy.
• If the fire has warped or distorted the structure, consult a licensed general contractor.

Professional restoration technicians  know that damage increases and restoration costs escalate the longer neutralization, corrosion control and cleaning is delayed. When homeowners prolong the restoration of their home, they extend the effects brought on by the smoke exposure. The following is a timeline of the effects of fire and smoke on a home.

For more details, visit http://www.IICRC.org/consumers/care/fire-smoke-restoration/ 

Need a professional? Call SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom at 916-987-0400 today. We are here to help 24/7. 

If you need help with your emergency visit: http://www.SERVPROfairoaksfolsom.com/. If you have a water or fire emergency be sure to call SERVPRO of Fair Oaks/Folsom at 916-525-1241 so we can help you today!

You can follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SERVPROfairoaksfolsom

Check That Inventory List

6/29/2022 (Permalink)

The average home has approximately over 300,000 items. If a disaster such as a floor, fire, or theft were to destroy your home, would you recall all the detail necessary to provide a claim report to your insurance company?

In the event of a claim, insurers require you to substantiate your loss in as much detail as possible. “The last thing most of us want to do is spend a weekend documenting all our stuff. But almost as heartbreaking as losing a home to a disaster is trying to re-create a home inventory after the fact,” says Carole Walker, executive director of the Rocky Mountain Insurance Information Association.

The prospect of cataloging everything you own can be daunting, but technology can help. Check whether your insurer offers any software, smartphone apps or other tools to help with the process. Both Allstate and Liberty Mutual have free apps that let you create an inventory of your personal property. The Allstate Digital Locker even allows you to store your inventory in the cloud. State Farm has a home inventory checklist anyone can download.

Dig out every receipt you can. Locate the make, model and serial numbers for appliances and electronics, usually on the back or bottom. If you purchased that refrigerator 10 years ago and tossed the receipt, it’s okay. Open the door and look inside for a plate with the identifying information. Note the data or snap a picture of it.

Then proceed room by room. The quickest method is to make a video. Stand in the center of a room and narrate as you record. Film the entire space, including every wall, the ceiling and floor. Describe every item and feature, such as hardwood flooring or that pricey light fixture, to the best of your ability. Some detail is better than nothing.

Once it’s finished, don’t let your inventory become part of the loss. The most complete home inventory is worthless if you can’t get to it. Store it in the cloud, iCloud, Dropbox, OneDrive, etc. At a minimum, copy your files and any videos to a flash drive and give it to a friend or relative in another town, store it in a safe-deposit box, or email the file to yourself.

Source

Are you already working through your own disaster? Call SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Laguna at 916-987-0400 to help you through this time. SERVPRO's employees have been trained to help and assist you during this time. It can be an overwhelming time - SERVPRO will help you!

Fire Damage Near

5/24/2022 (Permalink)

No need to worry about area wildfires. If one is near your home, be sure to call SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom to clean up the smoke damage. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Every fire damage situation is a little different and requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same. When various materials burn, the soot they create differs greatly and requires a specific cleaning procedure. The steps listed below illustrate our process for the “typical” fire damage restoration. Learn more about our fire damage restoration process.

1. Emergency Contact
2. Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment
3. Immediate Board-Up and Roof Tarp Service (if needed)
4. Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)
5. Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces
6. Cleaning and Repair
7. Restoration

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – (916) 987-0400

Folsom and Surrounding Areas with Smoke and Soot Cleanup

5/24/2022 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom.

Wildfires Area?

4/20/2022 (Permalink)

No need to worry about area wildfires. If one is near your home, be sure to call SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom to clean up the smoke damage. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Every fire damage situation is a little different and requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same. When various materials burn, the soot they create differs greatly and requires a specific cleaning procedure. The steps listed below illustrate our process for the “typical” fire damage restoration. Learn more about our fire damage restoration process.

1. Emergency Contact
2. Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment
3. Immediate Board-Up and Roof Tarp Service (if needed)
4. Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)
5. Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces
6. Cleaning and Repair
7. Restoration

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – (916) 987-0400

If you need help with your fire emergency visit http://www.SERVPROfairoaksfolsom.com/fire-smoke-damage-restoration to find out how SERVPRO is able to help you.

IICRC Creditals, What Are These?

3/9/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.

IICRC has many tips and suggestions for consumers. Please consider the following information from the IICRC regarding fire and smoke restoration:

In the wake of a fire that has covered homes with smoke and ash, it’s important to begin clean up as soon as possible in order to prevent permanent damage or discoloration from soot residue. The IICRC provides the following tips for fire victims facing clean up:

• Practice safety first. Use a dust mask (like painters use) and gloves as you work.
• Ventilate the home. Place a box fan in an open window to draw the air and dust out.
• Clean from top to bottom. Start with the ceilings, walls and fixtures, and work your way down to the contents of the room, then to the floor.
• Vacuum floors and upholstery. Make sure your vacuum cleaner has a high efficiency filter. Otherwise, you risk blowing soot back into the air.
• Some draperies, clothing and machine-washable items may be laundered. Use a mild alkaline cleaner to neutralize the acid in the soot. Fine clothing should be dry cleaned.
• Most exterior walls (brick, stone, wood, paint, siding) and eaves can be cleaned by spraying with a detergent, agitating soot with a soft-bristled brush, pressure washing from bottom to top, then rinsing from top to bottom.
• If the damage and residue are heavy, it may be best to hire a professional to thoroughly restore your home and belongings.
• Check with your insurance company to see if smoke damage from outdoor sources is covered by your policy.
• If the fire has warped or distorted the structure, consult a licensed general contractor.

Professional restoration technicians  know that damage increases and restoration costs escalate the longer neutralization, corrosion control and cleaning is delayed. When homeowners prolong the restoration of their home, they extend the effects brought on by the smoke exposure. The following is a timeline of the effects of fire and smoke on a home.

For more details, visit http://www.IICRC.org/consumers/care/fire-smoke-restoration/ 

Need a professional? Call SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom at 916-987-0400 today. We are here to help 24/7. 

Be Prepared For The House Fire

3/9/2022 (Permalink)

The American Red Cross has gone to great lengths on their web page providing tips and suggestions on home fire prevention. 

The 7 Ways to Prepare for a Home Fire

1. Install the right number of smoke alarms. Test them once a month and replace the batteries at least once a year.
2. 
   Teach children what smoke alarms sound like and what to do when they hear one.
3. 
   Ensure that all household members know two ways to escape from every room of your home and know the family meeting spot outside of your home.
4. 
   Establish a family emergency communications plan and ensure that all household members know who to contact if they cannot find one another.
5. 
   Practice escaping from your home at least twice a year. Press the smoke alarm test button or yell “Fire“ to alert everyone that they must get out.
6. 
   Make sure everyone knows how to call 9-1-1.
7. 
   Teach household members to STOP, DROP and ROLL if their clothes should catch on fire.

For more details visit:

http://www.redcross.org/get-help/prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/fire/home-fire-preparedness

If your family has just suffered a home fire, please call SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom at 916-987-0400. We are here to help you 24/7.

What do you with your belongings after a fire?

2/28/2022 (Permalink)

Fire not only affects the structure of your home but it also affects your belongings. SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom is here to help! SERVPRO understands your furniture, keepsakes, clothing and belongings are extremely important to you. SERVPRO understands that some of these items are essential to making a house a home. 

Being overwhelmed is a totally reasonable response after a fire. We are here to make this awful situation better for you. When necessary, SERVPRO can complete move-outs and pack-outs for you! If your home requires extensive restoration or cleaning due to the damage from the fire, we can organize an efficient move-out of contents from the affected area. Move-outs allow for a quicker rebuild/remodeling and protects contents from damage during the remodel. While the rebuild/remodel process occurs, your items can be inventoried and cleaned at our office.

Need immediate help? SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom is here to take care of you – call 916-987-0400! We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. 

Prepping For A House Fire

2/9/2022 (Permalink)

The American Red Cross has gone to great lengths on their web page providing tips and suggestions on home fire prevention. 

The 7 Ways to Prepare for a Home Fire

1. Install the right number of smoke alarms. Test them once a month and replace the batteries at least once a year.
2. 
   Teach children what smoke alarms sound like and what to do when they hear one.
3. 
   Ensure that all household members know two ways to escape from every room of your home and know the family meeting spot outside of your home.
4. 
   Establish a family emergency communications plan and ensure that all household members know who to contact if they cannot find one another.
5. 
   Practice escaping from your home at least twice a year. Press the smoke alarm test button or yell “Fire“ to alert everyone that they must get out.
6. 
   Make sure everyone knows how to call 9-1-1.
7. 
   Teach household members to STOP, DROP and ROLL if their clothes should catch on fire.

For more details visit:

http://www.redcross.org/get-help/prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/fire/home-fire-preparedness

If your family has just suffered a home fire, please call SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom at 916-987-0400. We are here to help you 24/7.

Be On Alert For Risky Things That Could Happen In Older Homes

12/13/2021 (Permalink)

There’s no denying the charm of living in an older home. Arched doorways, ceiling medallions and other architectural details representative of a bygone era catch the attention of many homeowners. But along with the unique charms that come with living in an older home in Fair Oaks / Folsom, come unique hazards, such as fire risks. Purchasing an old home may require more than a lot of elbow grease, a few coats of paint and TLC touches throughout. Thoroughly investigating to uncover potential fire risks in your Fair Oaks / Folsom home is an important step to take to prevent catastrophic fire damage. Below are some of the most common fire hazards lurking in your older home.

1. Bad wiring

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), electrical failures or malfunctions were the second leading cause of U.S. home fires in 2012-2016, accounting for 13 percent of home structure fires. Antiquated wiring such as knob and tube wiring — which was the standardized method of electrical wiring in homes until the 1940s — poses a potential risk for fire damage.

Knob and tube wiring systems use porcelain knobs for running wires through unobstructed spaces and porcelain tubes to protect wires running through studs and joists.

If a knob and tube system is intact and functioning properly, it poses no immediate risk. Problems arise, however, when the rubber sheathing that’s used to insulate the wires degrades (modern electrical wiring is encased in plastic). As the rubber degrades over time, it exposes live wires to air and moisture, thereby increasing the chance of a short or a fire. The combination of modern insulation and knob and tube wiring also poses a fire hazard that can lead to devastating loss and the need for fire damage repairs and restoration to your Austin home.

This antiquated wiring system utilizes porcelain knobs to suspend the wires in open air to allow the heat to dissipate. When homeowners insulate the attic and walls of their notoriously drafty older homes, the insulation surrounding the wires will cause heat to build up, resulting in a potential fire. Currently, the United States National Electrical Code® (NEC) forbids use of loose, blown-in or expanding foam insulation over knob and tube wiring.

Older wiring is also rated for lower amps than is required by the multiple appliances we use today. This can result in circuits being overloaded, which can cause a fire. Knob and tube wiring systems also lack a grounding conductor. Grounding conductors reduce the chance of a fire and damage to sensitive equipment.

Hiring a certified electrician or electrical inspector to evaluate the wiring throughout your home is key to preventing a potential fire and preventing the need for fire damage repairs and restoration with the additional water damage that can occur, as is removing knob-and-tube wiring from inside your walls or attic prior to adding insulation.

2. Balloon-frame construction

According to firefighters, the way your home is constructed could make it a bigger fire risk and susceptible to fire damage. Balloon-frame construction, popular in the 1930s and 1940s, is a common sight in older homes. Unlike the modern platform building technique in which a floor (platform) is built, then wall studs (boards that function as framing elements in the home) are installed, then another floor (platform) and so on, balloon framing is characterized by wall studs that run continuously two or more stories high from the foundation to the attic floor. The problem with a balloon-frame house is that when a fire starts in the lower level of the home, there’s nothing to stop the flames from quickly spreading to the attic.

If you live in one of these homes, retrofitting the walls could be quite costly. Keep this in mind if you’re considering buying an older home with this type of framing construction.

3. Outdated appliances

Vintage appliances may add to the charm of your older home, but they also add an increased risk of fire. Your old-fashioned plug-in fan, vintage light fixture and chrome coffeemaker may still run, but they were made according to antiquated safety codes and may include frayed or damaged wires. An appliance that doesn’t come with a UL mark, signifying that Underwriters Laboratories has vouched for the item's safety in actual use, should be rewired.

4. Old furnaces

The average life expectancy of furnaces is 15 to 20 years. Furnaces that are 20 years or older pose a danger due to their use of an old-style pilot light for ignition. House fires that are started by pilot lights, bad ventilation and/or gas line leaks are another major fire hazard of an outdated heating system. The combustible materials or any flammable objects near a furnace also create an increased possibility of fire or explosion.

While replacing your furnace with an energy-efficient modern model is best, if you’re not ready to replace your old furnace, be sure to have it diligently inspected and serviced by a professional every year. 

5. Chimneys

Before spending your first cozy night indoors sitting by a crackling fire, be sure your fireplace chimney and/or wood stove has been recently inspected. It’s vital that your chimneys are inspected annually, and cleaned of creosote buildup — a flammable dark brown or black tar-like byproduct of the wood-burning process that’s deposited on the walls of a chimney. If creosote builds up in sufficient quantities – and the internal flue temperature is high enough – the result could be a chimney fire. 

A professional chimney cleaning typically includes sweeping the fireplace, inspecting the firebox, liners, smoke chamber and flue, and chimney exterior. Recommendations for proper operation or replacement of equipment and necessary repairs to any equipment or structure will also be made.

Restoration In 5 Steps

12/13/2021 (Permalink)

We pride ourselves on being quick and reliable during unexpected events like fires. Our restoration process may seem intense, but we've decided to break it down for you in 5 simple steps...

1. Inspection and Assessment

The company will send out a team of professional inspectors to determine the best course of action. They then will figure out what tools they'll need to get the job done. During the fire cleanup process, they will determine if pipes and wiring have been impacted, the extent of smoke damage and any hazardous conditions.

2. Board-Up and Tarping

Boards and tarps provide an excellent barrier to elements and possible thieves. The immediate priority after a fire is to prevent any further damage. 

3. Water Removal and Drying 

Equipment like fans and negative pressure devices speed up this step. Dehumidifiers are used to get the moisture out of walls and floors as quickly as possible.

4. Soot and Smoke Cleaning

This step takes specialized equipment and techniques that experienced fire cleanup personnel have to complete the job. 

5. Cleaning and Sanitizing

All exposed surfaces and personal belongings will be restored or replaced during the final cleanup process. Air scrubbers and fogging devices may also be used.

Call us at (916) 987 -0400 with any questions concerning our fire cleanup process!

Preventing Grease Fires

12/10/2021 (Permalink)

Most often, grease fires happen when a pan is left on the stove unattended and for too long. Another way a grease fire can occur is when extra grease on the stove top or drip pan catches fire accidentally. Keeping these fires from happening is not hard if you stay in the kitchen while you are cooking, and take a few safety measures. A small mistake, however, can lead to the need for fire damage restoration from professionals such as SERVPRO. If the unthinkable does happen, our trained staff can help you to restore your home back to normal quickly.

Steps to Prevent Grease Fires: 
Always have a Class B Dry Chemical Fire Extinguisher close at hand, under the sink base cabinet, or in another reachable place. A small investment may save you a lot of money and also mitigate dangers caused by fires. As mentioned above, stay in the kitchen at all times when you are heating oil for pan-frying or deep-fat frying to prevent a grease fire. Leaving cooking unattended in your Fair Oaks home is the biggest reason for fires in the kitchen. Before you turn the heat on, also make sure that the burner on the stove top is cool. Clean any excess oil or grease spills from the drip pan around the burner, too. 

Before you start, check out the heat ratings of the cooking oil. These indicate the maximum temperature the oil can be cooked at before it catches fire. For most vegetable oils, for example, this temperature is around 450 degrees Fahrenheit, while for animal oils this temperature is around 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Attach a thermometer to the side of the pot to keep track of the temperature of the oil. When it is close to its burning point, it will let off smoke and ruin the taste of your food. Turn off the heat if this happens, and carefully remove the pan from the burner to let it cool off. 

Be careful when you are putting food into oil that is already hot. Use long utensils like tongs which let you gently insert the food without dropping it and splashing oil on yourself. Use a cover or lid to stop hot oil from splattering. Remove the lid carefully if you do have to stir the food, and put it back when you’ve finished. Also, as soon as any food or oil spills happen, clean them up. 

If the grease does catch fire, do not ever try to move the pot or pan. Use a metal lid to cover the pan and shut off the supply of oxygen to the fire. A small fire contained inside the pan can be extinguished by putting baking soda on the fire until it burns out, but if you do not feel safe controlling it by yourself, exit the house immediately and call 911 for help. If your home does sustain fire damage, remember to give our technicians at SERVPRO a call right afterward. Remember, do not ever use water to put a grease fire out! This can cause the grease to splash and spread the fire further. 

Accidents do still happen. If you experience a grease fire in your home and need fire damage repair, contact SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom right away once the fire is out. We can be reached at any time by dialing (916) 987-0400. 

Why Does Smoke Affect Your Items In The Home

12/10/2021 (Permalink)

A fire can destroy your property and cause serious, irreversible damage. The flames move from one item to another, burning everything into ash. The heat created by the flames radiate, causing the surrounding items to crack, melt, and in some cases shatter. After the flames are put out, you have to deal with smoke damage.

If smoke damage is not addressed, it can devastate your home along with everything inside it. Smoke damage can even occur in rooms the fire never reached. For example, during wildfires, businesses and homes have been totally ruined just from the smoke while the building stayed untouched by the flames.

Even a small fire that is put out quickly may still cause smoke damage to the items inside. Also, smoke can impact your home’s structure. That is why cleaning up soot and smoke right away after a fire is so crucial. Smoke acts like an acid and can start to corrode many different materials if left too long.

If fire strikes a structure or home, or if you live near areas that are prone to wildfires, you must act fast to reduce the damage that occurs. Professional smoke damage restoration specialists can quickly assess the damage and create a customized mitigation plan to make sure your home is clear of all fire related damages.

What Can You Salvage?

The answer to this question depends on the extent of the damage and what something is made of. You also need to consider the cost of salvaging some items. You can work with a smoke damage specialist to figure out what items you should clean and which ones you should replace or discard.

How Will Smoke Impact Your Home?

Smoke affects materials in unique ways. Also, the type and temperature of the fire will result in different types of smoke damage through your home. One of the worst ways smoke can cause damage is if it gets into small crevices and cracks, since the particles are so small.

In fact, these issues often go undetected for a long time, leaving that lingering smell of smoke that may last for several months. The best way to remove the smell from your home is by removing or cleaning the affected items and to clean the building materials in the home with agents that are designed to remove the smell. Having this handled as quickly as possible will reduce the potential of cross-contamination.

How Quickly Do You Need to Act?

Time is something that is of the essence when you are talking about smoke damage. The sooner that you act, the more likely you will be to prevent serious damage. For example, there are some materials like porous items and synthetic fires that need intervention within hours of exposure to be saved.

Steps On A Fire Claim

12/10/2021 (Permalink)

The average home has approximately over 300,000 items. If a disaster such as a floor, fire, or theft were to destroy your home, would you recall all the detail necessary to provide a claim report to your insurance company?

In the event of a claim, insurers require you to substantiate your loss in as much detail as possible. “The last thing most of us want to do is spend a weekend documenting all our stuff. But almost as heartbreaking as losing a home to a disaster is trying to re-create a home inventory after the fact,” says Carole Walker, executive director of the Rocky Mountain Insurance Information Association.

The prospect of cataloging everything you own can be daunting, but technology can help. Check whether your insurer offers any software, smartphone apps or other tools to help with the process. Both Allstate and Liberty Mutual have free apps that let you create an inventory of your personal property. The Allstate Digital Locker even allows you to store your inventory in the cloud. State Farm has a home inventory checklist anyone can download.

Dig out every receipt you can. Locate the make, model and serial numbers for appliances and electronics, usually on the back or bottom. If you purchased that refrigerator 10 years ago and tossed the receipt, it’s okay. Open the door and look inside for a plate with the identifying information. Note the data or snap a picture of it.

Then proceed room by room. The quickest method is to make a video. Stand in the center of a room and narrate as you record. Film the entire space, including every wall, the ceiling and floor. Describe every item and feature, such as hardwood flooring or that pricey light fixture, to the best of your ability. Some detail is better than nothing.

Once it’s finished, don’t let your inventory become part of the loss. The most complete home inventory is worthless if you can’t get to it. Store it in the cloud, iCloud, Dropbox, OneDrive, etc. At a minimum, copy your files and any videos to a flash drive and give it to a friend or relative in another town, store it in a safe-deposit box, or email the file to yourself.

Are you already working through your own disaster? Call SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Laguna at 916-987-0400 to help you through this time. SERVPRO's employees have been trained to help and assist you during this time. It can be an overwhelming time - SERVPRO will help you!

What To Do After A Fire

12/7/2021 (Permalink)

After any fire damage situation, your primary focus should be safety:

• Is it safe to stay in the house?
• Electrical and "slip and fall" hazards are some of the most prevalent concerns.
• Only do activities that are safe for you to perform.
• Wet materials can be VERY heavy. Be careful!

What To Do After A Fire

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpets.
• Keep hands clean so as not to further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork.
• Place clean towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas.
• If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator and prop doors open.
• Clean and protect chrome with light coating of petroleum jelly or oil.
• Wash houseplants on both sides of leaves.
• Change HVAC filter.
• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers.

What NOT To Do After A Fire

• Don't attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces or shampoo carpet or upholstery without contacting your SERVPRO Franchise Professional.
• Don't attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire, heat or water without consulting an authorized repair service.
• Don't use any canned or packaged food or beverages that may have been stored near the fire, heat or water.
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. The wiring may be damaged.
• Don't send garments to an ordinary dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set smoke odor.

Need immediate help? Please call SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom 916-987-0400. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We can handle your emergency.

Different Types Of Smoke & Soot

12/6/2021 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and Soot Facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire.

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Your Items After Fire Damage?

11/16/2021 (Permalink)

Fire not only affects the structure of your home but it also affects your belongings. SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom is here to help! SERVPRO understands your furniture, keepsakes, clothing and belongings are extremely important to you. SERVPRO understands that some of these items are essential to making a house a home. 

Being overwhelmed is a totally reasonable response after a fire. We are here to make this awful situation better for you. When necessary, SERVPRO can complete move-outs and pack-outs for you! If your home requires extensive restoration or cleaning due to the damage from the fire, we can organize an efficient move-out of contents from the affected area. Move-outs allow for a quicker rebuild/remodeling and protects contents from damage during the remodel. While the rebuild/remodel process occurs, your items can be inventoried and cleaned at our office.

Need immediate help? SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom is here to take care of you – call 916-987-0400! We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. 

Make An Escape Plan

11/16/2021 (Permalink)

Here is a fictional story but it could happen to almost any family. The Smith family was home one night and at about 1:00 am a fire started in the house. The alarms woke everyone up and the parents rushed to make sure the kids got out of the home. However, by the time they got to little Frank’s room he was already gone. He went out the back door and was hiding under a patio table.

Everyone (except Frank) ended up in the backyard and his father, James, checked outside everywhere and couldn’t find him in all the noise and confusion. James decided to go back in the house and find his son but fortunately, he caught a glimpse of him under the table. This scenario could have easily ended in tragedy because the family had no fire escape plan from home.

Coming Up with a Fire Escape Plan

Walk through the entire house and figure out the best evacuation route. It’s important to get all family members together so everyone gets the same information. You need to have things on paper so they can be posted on the wall for everyone to see. 

Don’t forget to tell everyone to drop to the floor and crawl out of the house if it’s full of smoke or hot inside. Many people are seriously injured or killed from breathing super heated air, and the air is the coolest at floor-level.

Draw up your floor plan. You can download a home fire escape plan template by going to the Red Cross website . It's a good idea to come up with a home fire drill checklist too.

Let A Professional Handle That Fire

11/10/2021 (Permalink)

Homeowners don’t usually know where to start and what to do after experiencing a fire emergency for the first time. Most people never have to go through the hardship of having a fire destroy or damage their home or business. But those who do understand the difficulty and challenges a fire can bring. 

Relocating Short-Term

Most often, even a small fire will displace the family from their home. The smoke and soot residue is dangerous and usually covers everything inside the house. The smoke moves throughout the structure and blankets all of the contents.

Even if the fire was contained and put out relatively quickly, hot smoke migrates to colder areas around the home and can affect other property levels. Smoke can travel through plumbing systems, pipes and go up several stories.

Living with family members or renting short-term is the best way to proceed after fire damage. Removing your family from the dangerous environment allows us to thoroughly clean and restore your home.

Contents Restoration

Taking care of your home and your belongings is critical. Usually, it is best to carefully pack all contents and move them to our warehouse, where they are inventoried, cleaned, and restored. We keep them safe until the home is ready, then transfer them back for you. This allows for better access to clean and restore the house and eliminates secondary damage during the restoration process.

Structure Restoration

We will remove and replace any part of the structure that was burned or damaged beyond the point of restoring. Our technicians carefully clean the walls, ceilings, and floors to remove and smoke and soot. The furnace and A/C unit will need to be cleaned thoroughly and ductwork inside the walls.

Fire Restoration

11/10/2021 (Permalink)

Fire has the unique ability to spread rapidly and cause an enormous amount of damage. In light of recent wildfires in the west, it is important to remember many structures can be restored with proper remediation efforts. The restoration team at SERVPRO is always ready to respond to home or business owners who have suffered a loss due to fire.

This damage resulted after a lawn mower caught on fire right outside the house. The owners were not at home at the time and the damage was extensive as the fire spread from the machine to the house very quickly. Our SERVPRO team was able to assess the site quickly and began remediation efforts immediately. Inside, the team removed sheetrock, removed affected contents, and performed smoke and soot remediation. HEPA vacuuming, deep cleaning of remaining materials and air purification were also performed after the demolition. Water from the fire department was removed via extraction and our effective drying equipment. After a building affected by fire is thoroughly cleaned, it is ready for our building services crew to repair the structure.

When The Fire Truck Leaves, What To Expect?

11/2/2021 (Permalink)

Once the fire trucks leave, the first step to clean up and restoration is the board-up. This is part of the emergency services provided by SERVPRO. Firefighters will often break windows and cut holes in the roof to help air out the property from all the smoke and heat. The board-up is essential to secure your property from theft and liability.

How The Smoke Travels

Even small-scale fires in a home can result in large amounts of fire and smoke damage. If your HVAC (your heater or A/C) system is on, then the smoke will most likely enter through the return vents and be spread throughout the duct system. This will not only carry the smoke and the smoke damage throughout the house but also cause smoke damage to your ducts.

Your ducts might have dust throughout the system, which can absorb the smoke, meaning every time your air conditioner or heater turns on, you'll smell the residual smoke for weeks and months after the fire.

Get The Water Out As Soon As Possible

SERVPRO responded to a fire damage call that received water damage that nearly equaled the amount of damage from the fire. Sometimes fires are put out by extinguishers, and water is not a factor in the cleanup process. When there is water damage in tandem with fire loss, the water's extraction must happen as quickly as possible.

The water removal process begins almost immediately. It is essential to remove the majority of the water as soon as possible to avoid mold growth. Our technicians use state of the art moisture detection equipment and years of experience to find the water trapped behind the walls and under floors. We then use dehumidifiers and air movers to remove the remaining water and complete the drying process.

Saving Your Belongings

Once our SERVPRO professionals arrive at your home or business, always in properly marked SERVPRO vehicles and uniforms, we can get to work on mitigation techniques designed to preserve your property and its contents. Processes like pack-outs remove the at-risk furniture and contents from your property to our secured warehouse.

Pack-outs provide a safe place for their storage and specialized attention until it is time to return them to your fully restored home. Separating the two gives us a better opportunity to clean and restore the structure. During their time with our Contents Department, individual items get cleaned, disinfected, and deodorized to be ready for their return to the property.

Our crews hand wrap and protect every large item, such as furniture, tables, chairs, and artwork. Smaller items are sorted and put into boxes. For inventory purposes, we photograph and label each item packed out and removed, and organize these pictures and labels in our proprietary software to keep track of your items during the entire process accurately.

What To Do When There Is Power Outages

11/2/2021 (Permalink)

Be prepared for a power outage by keeping necessary items centrally located in your home. Take the time to ensure that everyone in your family is aware of the "kit." Periodically check your kit to see that batteries operate properly. The following is a list of items that are suggested to keep on hand:

1.  Flashlights for each family member

2.  Battery-operated radio and clock

3.  Extra batteries

4.  Containers of bottled water

5.  Canned, freeze-dried or dehydrated food, powdered milk, baby supplies for infants

6.  Non-electric can opener

7.  List of important phone numbers

8.  First-aid kit

Following a heatwave, there may be power outages that could last for several days. Stock canned foods, dry mixes and other staples that do not require refrigeration, cooking, water or special preparation. Be sure to include a manual can opener and eating utensils. The following items are suggested when selecting emergency food supplies. You may already have many of these on hand.

•Store at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food.

•Choose foods your family will eat.

•Remember any special dietary needs.

•Avoid foods that will make you thirsty.

•Choose salt-free crackers, whole grain cereals and canned foods with high liquid content.

•Ready-to-eat canned meats, fruits, vegetables and a can opener

•Protein or fruit bars

•Dry cereal or granola

•Peanut butter

•Dried fruit

•Nuts

•Crackers

•Canned juices

•Non-perishable pasteurized milk

•High energy foods

•Vitamins

•Food for infants

•Comfort/stress foods

These and many other helpful tips are available at ready.gov

Safe prep before Halloween

10/5/2021 (Permalink)

Halloween is a fun time of year, but without precautions it can lead to house fires. The Cal Fire website offers some great tips and suggestions to keep Halloween safe and fun.

If you are faced with fire damage, call SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom at 916-987-0400 for 24/7 emergency service. 

TIPS FOR CHOOSING THE RIGHT COSTUMES:

Purchase costumes made of flame resistant or retardant material (Check the label). Fire resistant does not mean fire proof
Keep hemlines short enough to prevent tripping
Avoid loose and baggy sleeves. Stay away from billowing or long trailing fabric.
Use make-up instead of masks which can obstruct vision.
Use glow in the dark reflective tape on your costume.
TIPS FOR DECORATING:

Never use candles to light jack-o’-lanterns, use battery powered lights.
Instruct children to stay away from open flames.
Be extremely careful with cornstalks and other harvest season items. Keep them away from sources of heat.
Keep exits clear of decorations so nothing blocks escape routes

TIPS FOR HALLOWEEN NIGHT:

Children should always go trick-or-treating with a responsible adult.
If driving, be sure to watch for trick-or-treaters who are too busy to watch for you.
Provide children with flashlights or glow sticks to carry for lighting and visibility.
Do not allow children to carry sharp sticks or other objects that could cause injury to others.
Keep your yard free of tripping hazards, such as garden tools, hoses, etc.
Closely inspect all candy before allowing children to eat it. Discard any unwrapped treats from a stranger. If in doubt, throw it out.

The Fire Plan

8/18/2021 (Permalink)

CalFire has many great resources to help prepare you for a wildfire near you. Here is some information to get you started.  CREATE A WILDFIRE ACTION PLAN Your Wildfire Action Plan must be prepared, and familiar to all members of your household well in advance of a wildfire. Use the checklist below to help create your plan. Each family’s plan will be different, depending on a variety of issues, needs, and situations.

YOUR WILDFIRE ACTION PLAN CHECKLIST
Create an evacuation plan that includes:

• A designated emergency meeting location outside the fire or hazard area. This is critical to determine who has safely evacuated from the affected area.
• Several different escape routes from your home and community. Practice these often so everyone in your family is familiar in case of emergency.
• Have an evacuation plan for pets and large animals such as horses and other livestock.
• A Family Communication Plan that designates an out-of-area friend or relative as a point of contact to act as a single source of communication among family members in case of separation. (It is easier to call or message one person and let them contact others than to try and call everyone when phone, cell, and internet systems can be overloaded or limited during a disaster.)

Be Prepared:

• Have fire extinguishers on hand and train your family how to use them (check expiration dates regularly).
• Ensure that your family knows where your gas, electric, and water main shut-off controls are located and how to safely shut them down in an emergency.
• Assemble an Emergency Supply Kit for each person, as recommended by the American Red Cross. (See next section for details.)
• Maintain a list of emergency contact numbers posted near your phone and in your emergency supply kit.
• Keep an extra Emergency Supply Kit in your car in case you cannot get to your home because of fire or other emergency.
• Have a portable radio or scanner so you can stay updated on the fire.
• Tell your neighbors about Ready, Set, Go! and your Wildfire Action Plan.

If you have suffered from a wildfire and need fire damage restoration, SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom is here to help. Call us 24 hours as day at 916-987-0400 or visit our website for more information on all our services: www.SERVPROfairoaksfolsom.

Tips for Fire & Smoke Damage

8/9/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.

IICRC has many tips and suggestions for consumers. Please consider the following information from the IICRC regarding fire and smoke restoration:

In the wake of a fire that has covered homes with smoke and ash, it’s important to begin clean up as soon as possible in order to prevent permanent damage or discoloration from soot residue. The IICRC provides the following tips for fire victims facing clean up:

• Practice safety first. Use a dust mask (like painters use) and gloves as you work.
• Ventilate the home. Place a box fan in an open window to draw the air and dust out.
• Clean from top to bottom. Start with the ceilings, walls and fixtures, and work your way down to the contents of the room, then to the floor.
• Vacuum floors and upholstery. Make sure your vacuum cleaner has a high efficiency filter. Otherwise, you risk blowing soot back into the air.
• Some draperies, clothing and machine-washable items may be laundered. Use a mild alkaline cleaner to neutralize the acid in the soot. Fine clothing should be dry cleaned.
• Most exterior walls (brick, stone, wood, paint, siding) and eaves can be cleaned by spraying with a detergent, agitating soot with a soft-bristled brush, pressure washing from bottom to top, then rinsing from top to bottom.
• If the damage and residue are heavy, it may be best to hire a professional to thoroughly restore your home and belongings.
• Check with your insurance company to see if smoke damage from outdoor sources is covered by your policy.
• If the fire has warped or distorted the structure, consult a licensed general contractor.

Professional restoration technicians  know that damage increases and restoration costs escalate the longer neutralization, corrosion control and cleaning is delayed. When homeowners prolong the restoration of their home, they extend the effects brought on by the smoke exposure. The following is a timeline of the effects of fire and smoke on a home.

Need a professional? Call SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom at 916-987-0400 today. We are here to help 24/7.

Smoke & Soot Cleanup

8/2/2021 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom.

Fire Cleanup to a Commercial Building

6/23/2021 (Permalink)

Fire damage to a commercial building is a devastating experience.  After the fire trucks leave, your property will likely suffer from not only fire and smoke damage but also widespread water damage and flooding from firefighting efforts.  Therefore, immediate action is crucial to minimize business interruption, reduce lost revenue and productivity.

But trying to clean up the aftermath may be the last thing you feel like doing on your own.  When fire, smoke and soot damage are left behind, it can create an unpleasant and permanent problems if not properly addressed.  Especially considering that smoke and soot from even a small fire can permanently damage contents throughout the building and may cause odors that resurface for years. 

SERVPRO understands how disruptive fires can be for business owners, their tenants and even their customers.  So, before you risk doing more damage to your most valuable business assets by attempting to clean it up yourself, you should consider hiring an experienced company like SERVPRO.  Our technicians have the training, tools, equipment, and experience to handle any fire damage incident to a commercial building.  They can respond immediately to begin the work to restore your business back and running. 

CALL US TODAY: 916-987-0400

Help Protect Your Commercial Building From Fire

6/5/2021 (Permalink)

Fires in Commercial Buildings can cause a great amount of damage, but there are three easy things a business can do to prevent the most common commercial building fires. 

1. Surprisingly, the top cause of commercial building fires is cooking fires. But a fire extinguisher placed near the kitchen area can give employees the power to stop a small cooking fire from spreading.  Be sure to train your employees on how to use the extinguisher and make sure they are still in good working condition.
2. Fire alarms can save lives and property from damage, yet many are left unchecked and are not properly maintained. Be sure to check the fire alarm in your building or office to make sure that it working correctly.
3. A commercial fire sprinkler system can put out a potentially deadly fire in a commercial building. Have the one in your commercial building tested annually.

Be sure that your business has what it needs to protect itself from a crippling fire and be proactive in helping prevent damage to your business by following these three easy guidelines.

SERVPRO FAIR OAKS & FOLSOM | FIRE DAMAGE NEAR ME | FIRE DAMAGE FOLSOM | WATER DAMAGE FAIR OAKS 

Make Sure You Have A Fire Extinguisher In Your Commercial Building

6/1/2021 (Permalink)

Fire extinguishers are required in all commercial buildings in California, and there are specific requirements regarding training of your employees in many areas of fire prevention and safety.

Cal OSHA regulations stipulate that fire extinguishers must be placed in areas that the employees can easily access, such as in a cabinet or mounted to a wall.  They should be placed near exits to reduce the risk that people will be trapped by fire inside a building.  OSHA regulations also mandate that all employees must be trained on the basic principles of using fire extinguishers, as well as the hazards that are typically involved with firefighting.  They should also be trained on the process for reporting a fire, how to evaluate the size of a fire, and how to keep an exit route in good condition in your place of work.

Training must be provided to every new employee, for employees assigned to emergency response teams, and to all other employees on an annual basis.  In order to be safe, make sure your company is following all of these guidelines.

In the unfortunate event that your business does experience a fire, call the professionals at SERVPRO. We can help you recover from a fire and return your business to its condition before the fire began.  We are on call 24 hours a day 7 days a week so call us for all your fire, water or mold restoration needs. 

SERVPRO OF ELK GROVE & LAGUNA | WATER DAMAGE | FIRE DAMAGE | COMMERCIAL FIRES | HOME DAMAGE

Why Call SERVPRO Fire Remediation Professionals

5/26/2021 (Permalink)

Fire

Limit Mold and Mildew

Firefighters are great at responding to fires, accidents, and other incidents where there are risks to life and property. Full-time firefighters respond to a wide variety of calls from fires to flooding incidents. However, in the process of using water to extinguish a fire, they can introduce mold and mildew into houses when they must use water to extinguish the fire. SERVPRO strongly recommends you hire trained fire restoration professionals to deal with mold and mildew. Mold and mildew can also cause health effects. In addition, it's difficult for an untrained nonprofessional to know for certain if (s)he’s cleaned up all the areas affected by the mold and mildew. Mold and mildew can contaminate your furniture, carpets, clothing, mattresses, walls, and vents.

Replace Carpets, Clean and Dry Your Floors

When it comes to floor water damage, SERVPRO  has dealt with many different floor repairs. Your floors and carpets end up absorbing the worst of the damage from all the water used to put out a fire. In almost every case, we recommend that carpets that have water damage be pulled up and replaced. Water can also seep underneath vinyl flooring and into the cracks in hardwood. Mold grows on organic materials that are in environments with trapped moisture or high humidity. This implies that hardwood floors are susceptible to mold growth beneath them in a case of flood or water damage.

Post-fire Odors in Clothing and Ducts

Treating clothing as soon as possible after a fire is a key to removing the smell. It's also wise NOT to immediately use a washer or dryer, as the heat and motion can make the smoke smell set in and become impossible to get rid of. Removing smoke odor from clothing is one of the biggest jobs you’ll have after a fire. Often times dry cleaning is the best bet. Ask your SERVPRO  professionals about your emergency dry cleaning needs and sealing your ducts in addition to cleaning them.

Fire Preparedness, Every Second Counts

5/7/2021 (Permalink)

Fire Damage

Fire experts agree, people have as little as two minutes to escape a burning home before it’s too late to get out.* In a matter of moments, a small flame can become a major fire, making it critical to be prepared and have an escape plan in place. A survey conducted by the American Red Cross shows only 26 percent of families have developed and practiced a home fire escape plan. Once a plan is developed, it is critical everyone in the home understands the plan; the best way to do this is by practicing the escape plan at least twice a year. Increase your chance of surviving a fire by ensuring you have working smoke detectors in place, building an escape plan, and then practicing the escape plan. The following are a few suggestions to help you develop an emergency escape plan.

Draw a map of each level of your home and show all doors and windows. Find two ways to get out of each room. Make sure all doors and windows that lead outside open easily.

Consider escape ladders for sleeping areas on the second and third floors. Only purchase collapsible escape ladders evaluated by a recognized testing laboratory. Store them near the window where they will be used.

Choose an outside meeting place a safe distance in front of your home where everyone can meet after they’ve escaped. Make sure to mark the location of the meeting place on your escape plan.

Teach children how to escape on their own in case you cannot help them. Plan for everyone in your home with special considerations for elderly or disabled individuals.

Enjoy BBQs and Independence Day with Safe Office and Home Parties!

4/18/2021 (Permalink)

With the holiday weekend finally here, we want to make sure everyone stays safe while still having fun! Fireworks cause an average of almost 20,000 reported fires per year; and in 2013, sparklers caused 41% of fireworks injuries. When firing up those grills remember that July is the peak month for grill fires. Here are some tips to ensure your 4th of July Barbecue is disaster-free!

-Propane and charcoal BBQ grills should only be used outdoors
-Keep your grill clean by removing any grease buildup from the grills and in trays below the grill
-When using a charcoal grill, let the coals cool completely before disposing of them
-Do not try to re-light or handle malfunctioning fireworks. Keep a bucket of water nearby in order to extinguish fireworks that don’t go off.

Stay safe and have fun this holiday weekend!

How to Keep Pets Safe During a Fire

3/15/2021 (Permalink)

How to Prepare for a Potential Fire Emergency

A fire can quickly engulf any home; an inferno can also threaten everyone's well-being, including pets. While you may communicate evacuation instructions to human family members, ensuring pet safety can be challenging. Employing four useful strategies can help everyone in your family prepare for a potential fire emergency.

1. Keep Leashes Accessible

A leash is an essential pet care accessory that can safely extract your dog or cat from the premise and keep track of them in the ensuing chaos. To expedite its retrieval, you should store this device near a frequently-used exit. You should also train your pet to come to you when called promptly.

2. Practice Evacuating With Pets

If you have children, consider routinely performing fire drills to ensure everyone understands crucial evacuation procedures. Including your pets in these exercises may be extremely beneficial.

3. Post a Pet Alert Sign

A pet alert sign is another useful fire emergency planning tool that you can attach to windows near your front and back doors. These placards are designed to help first responders quickly identify the number of animals living inside the residence. Posting this information may be especially vital if a fire erupts when no one is home.

4. Help Others Identify Your Pet

A frightened animal may run away during a crisis. Purchasing an identification tag and microchipping each pet can enable others to determine the correct owner quickly. To eliminate communication problems, be sure to update both items if your contact information changes.

Enduring a fire emergency can be a daunting experience. If you have animals inside your home, pet preparation should be a component of your family evacuation plan. In addition to providing peace of mind, knowing both your human and furry family members are safe may reduce the stress of the fire cleanup and restoration process.

Fire safety | fire damage fair oaks | Folsom | water damage folsom | pet safety |

3 Furnace Maintenance Tips

3/9/2021 (Permalink)

Furnace Maintenance Tips

A furnace that is not properly maintained can increase your heating bill, break down or even cause a fire that could leave you with a fire cleaning bill. These three furnace maintenance tips can help keep your furnace running smoothly.

1. Do Not Wait Until It Gets Cold
Repairs can take multiple days to complete or even longer if a part has to be ordered. Additionally, technicians are usually busier in the winter months, so if you wait until winter to request an inspection, you may have to wait longer to book an appointment and if the inspection turns up anything that needs repairing, you may be stuck with no furnace during cold weather.

2. Check For Gas Leaks
If you have a gas furnace, it is important to check for gas leaks. The lines that supply gas to your unit can wear out, develop small holes or become loose-fitting over time. If you notice a rotten egg smell around your gas lines, you may have a leak. If you suspect a leak, you should shut off the gas to your home and call a repair technician. Gas leaks can cause explosions that can lead to fires and the need for fire cleaning.

3. Change Your Filters
Clogged air filters restrict airflow which can shorten the life of your fan motor, cause your furnace to use more energy, reduce indoor air quality, such as lingering smoke smells from cooking, and clog ductwork. Filters should be changed every one to three months. If you have lingering smoke smells due to clogged filters, consider using the services of a smoke cleaning company to remove them.
Proper furnace maintenance can save you money, extend the life of your furnace, and help avoid potential fire damage that could create a need for fire cleaning. Start your maintenance plan now to make sure you are ready for winter weather.

Home Fire Safety Tips

3/3/2021 (Permalink)

The rate of home fire accidents has been rising for so many years. There have been many incidents related to Fire Safety Tips that have claimed the lives of so many people. It just goes to show that a lot of families didn’t pay attention to taking preventive measures. And that’s really very worrying. Although it sounds so simple it is really important for every family.

Everyone knows that fires are usually caused by an accident. However, this does not mean that it is inevitable. If you are fully aware of the security measures in your home, you can always prevent this from happening. Remember, fire can be stopped. You just have to know how to do it before it gets worse.

It is important to observe proper preventive measures because it can save lives not only for you but also for your family. Nothing bad can happen in a person’s life without putting your house on fire. So if you are not a victim of this horrific incident, check out the rest of this article for more fire safety advice.

The best way to avoid a fire is to reduce or eliminate the risk of fire in your area. In case of emergency, fire tactics should be done which you should be fully aware of. You should also inform all family members who are with you. That way, they won’t panic whenever an emergency occurs.

It helps to install fire alarms and smoke detectors in your home. These devices can help give you an early warning. There are different types that you can choose from. There are water sprinklers and fire extinguishers. For others, they thought these alarms were only for businesses. This is not entirely true; These can actually be installed in your home.

All electrical devices and applications should be plugged in to secure. Do not leave them in the still mode as they still use a small amount of energy. Check regularly to see if they are still in good condition. There are many times that electrical gadgets are already broken but still used can cause fatal events like fire. So don’t ignore the condition of your tools.

If there are no leaks, always check your gas tank and gas limit. You should monitor when the tank needs to be replaced and the gas controller installed correctly. This can be really dangerous as you can smell the leaking gas which is harmful to your health.

There may be plenty of fire safety tips that every family should consider. But regardless of what these preventive measures are, homeowners should not underestimate the importance of getting to know them. It is very important to learn how to stay away from dangers and how to prevent them from happening. Doing so will not only save your house from burning, but you will also save your family and family.

5 Post-Fire Steps for Businesses

2/11/2021 (Permalink)

Board up services

Prepare Your Plan Before A Disaster Occurs

Taking the proper steps after a commercial fire could mean the difference between business recovery or permanent closure. Amid the chaos, it's difficult to know what to do. It pays to create a fire restoration plan now should the worst ever happen.

1. Document, Document, Document
After a disaster, document as much as possible. It’s particularly beneficial to have “before” pictures already on hand. Take photographs of as much of the affected area as safely possible. Log all contacts you’ve made, the reason for contact and the contact’s response. Keep all receipts and note each remediation expense incurred.

2. Shut Off Utilities
One of the critical initial steps you should take is shutting off all utilities. Taking this extra precaution diminishes the chance of additional fire or water damage. Shut gas and electricity off at the meter. Turn off the water at the main valve. Have a professional inspect the area and equipment before resuming their use.

3. Call Your Insurance Company
Report the fire to your insurance company immediately. Your agent can advise you of the next course of action. Timely communication helps to avoid overlooked details or delays in payment. Your fire insurance policy probably states that you’re responsible for moderating the loss as much as possible until the fire restoration process is complete. The insurance company may not cover secondary damage.

4. Collect Important Documents and Valuables
After the flames are out, wait for the fire department to inspect the area. Firefighters will permit you to enter the building when it’s safe. Grab any valuables you can safely reach (e.g., essential documents, employee records, credit cards and money).

5. Secure the Building
Mitigating additional damage means securing the property from weather, animals, theft or vandalism. Depending on the type and extent of loss, you may need to hire fire damage restoration professionals for board-up and/or tarp services. Security fencing may also be necessary. Save receipts in case the insurance company will reimburse these.
The fire restoration process isn’t as simple as dealing with just burned materials. Water damage restoration and smoke cleaning will also be necessary. 

fire damage | fire damage restoration near me | restoration for fire damage | Fair oaks fire damage | folsom fire damage | fireplace damage

Fire Preparedness, Every Second Counts

12/17/2020 (Permalink)

Fire experts agree, people have as little as two minutes to escape a burning home before it’s too late to get out.* In a matter of moments, a small flame can become a major fire, making it critical to be prepared and have an escape plan in place. A survey conducted by the American Red Cross shows only 26 percent of families have developed and practiced a home fire escape plan. Once a plan is developed, it is critical everyone in the home understands the plan; the best way to do this is by practicing the escape plan at least twice a year. Increase your chance of surviving a fire by ensuring you have working smoke detectors in place, building an escape plan, and then practicing the escape plan. The following are a few suggestions to help you develop an emergency escape plan.

Draw a map of each level of your home and show all doors and windows. Find two ways to get out of each room. Make sure all doors and windows that lead outside open easily.

Consider escape ladders for sleeping areas on the second and third floors. Only purchase collapsible escape ladders evaluated by a recognized testing laboratory. Store them near the window where they will be used.

Choose an outside meeting place a safe distance in front of your home where everyone can meet after they’ve escaped. Make sure to mark the location of the meeting place on your escape plan.

Teach children how to escape on their own in case you cannot help them. Plan for everyone in your home with special considerations for elderly or disabled individuals.

Temporary Power Outages

12/17/2020 (Permalink)

Be prepared for a power outage by keeping necessary items centrally located in your home. Take the time to ensure that everyone in your family is aware of the "kit." Periodically check your kit to see that batteries operate properly. The following is a list of items that are suggested to keep on hand:

1.  Flashlights for each family member

2.  Battery-operated radio and clock

3.  Extra batteries

4.  Containers of bottled water

5.  Canned, freeze-dried or dehydrated food, powdered milk, baby supplies for infants

6.  Non-electric can opener

7.  List of important phone numbers

8.  First-aid kit

Following a heatwave, there may be power outages that could last for several days. Stock canned foods, dry mixes and other staples that do not require refrigeration, cooking, water or special preparation. Be sure to include a manual can opener and eating utensils. The following items are suggested when selecting emergency food supplies. You may already have many of these on hand.

•Store at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food.

•Choose foods your family will eat.

•Remember any special dietary needs.

•Avoid foods that will make you thirsty.

•Choose salt-free crackers, whole grain cereals and canned foods with high liquid content.

•Ready-to-eat canned meats, fruits, vegetables and a can opener

•Protein or fruit bars

•Dry cereal or granola

•Peanut butter

•Dried fruit

•Nuts

•Crackers

•Canned juices

•Non-perishable pasteurized milk

•High energy foods

•Vitamins

•Food for infants

•Comfort/stress foods

These and many other helpful tips are available at ready.gov

Once The Fire Truck Leaves

12/15/2020 (Permalink)

Once the fire trucks leave, the first step to clean up and restoration is the board-up. This is part of the emergency services provided by SERVPRO. Firefighters will often break windows and cut holes in the roof to help air out the property from all the smoke and heat. The board-up is essential to secure your property from theft and liability.

How The Smoke Travels

Even small-scale fires in a home can result in large amounts of fire and smoke damage. If your HVAC (your heater or A/C) system is on, then the smoke will most likely enter through the return vents and be spread throughout the duct system. This will not only carry the smoke and the smoke damage throughout the house but also cause smoke damage to your ducts.

Your ducts might have dust throughout the system, which can absorb the smoke, meaning every time your air conditioner or heater turns on, you'll smell the residual smoke for weeks and months after the fire.

Get The Water Out As Soon As Possible

SERVPRO responded to a fire damage call that received water damage that nearly equaled the amount of damage from the fire. Sometimes fires are put out by extinguishers, and water is not a factor in the cleanup process. When there is water damage in tandem with fire loss, the water's extraction must happen as quickly as possible.

The water removal process begins almost immediately. It is essential to remove the majority of the water as soon as possible to avoid mold growth. Our technicians use state of the art moisture detection equipment and years of experience to find the water trapped behind the walls and under floors. We then use dehumidifiers and air movers to remove the remaining water and complete the drying process.

Saving Your Belongings

Once our SERVPRO professionals arrive at your home or business, always in properly marked SERVPRO vehicles and uniforms, we can get to work on mitigation techniques designed to preserve your property and its contents. Processes like pack-outs remove the at-risk furniture and contents from your property to our secured warehouse.

Pack-outs provide a safe place for their storage and specialized attention until it is time to return them to your fully restored home. Separating the two gives us a better opportunity to clean and restore the structure. During their time with our Contents Department, individual items get cleaned, disinfected, and deodorized to be ready for their return to the property.

Our crews hand wrap and protect every large item, such as furniture, tables, chairs, and artwork. Smaller items are sorted and put into boxes. For inventory purposes, we photograph and label each item packed out and removed, and organize these pictures and labels in our proprietary software to keep track of your items during the entire process accurately.

Good Reasons to Install Home Fire Sprinklers

12/15/2020 (Permalink)

Did you know that home fire sprinklers are more sensitive to heat than those installed in commercial buildings? SERVPRO® wants residents to know that according to the U.S. Fire Administration, there are many life-saving and financial benefits to installing home fire sprinklers including:

• Home sprinklers and smoke alarms increase your chance of surviving a fire by more than 82 percent
• Home fire sprinklers only spray when the temperature in the room rises quickly and the sprinkler above the fire is the only one that sprays
• They can prevent devastating home damage by putting out flames quickly and are less damaging than water damage caused by firefighting hose lines
• They are easy to install in a home under construction or being remodeled
• They can be connected to the home water supply and require less water than business and industrial systems
• They are low cost at about $1.35 per square foot
• Installing a sprinkler system in your home may lower insurance rates by 5 to 15 percent by meeting code requirements

We hope you never experience fire damage to your home or business but if you do, SERVPRO wants to help. Our team of highly trained professionals are on call 24 hours a day. 

Do You Understand the Basics of Using a Fire Extinguisher?

12/10/2020 (Permalink)

A fire-extinguisher can certainly be very helpful in preventing fire and smoke damage from spreading throughout your home or office. If the worst happens, remember that SERVPRO has caring experts to help you in cleaning up damage left from a fire.

OSHA has some helpful training tips (see below).  If you have any doubts or concerns at all, leave the premises and 911 once you are outside.

SERVPRO wants you to know that you can try to fight a small fire only if and only if:

• You have the right class of fire extinguisher
• You know how to use the fire extinguisher
• You can get to the fire extinguisher quickly. Fire is fast. Fire damage and smoke damage are less painful than injuries to you or others.

Types of Portable Fire Extinguishers 

• Class A fire extinguishers should be used to put out fires involving cardboard, paper, wood, dried vegetation. 
• Class B fire extinguishers should be used to put out fires involving flammable and combustible liquids, such as gasoline, diesel, oil, and oil-based paints, and many solvents. 
• Class C fire extinguishers are suitable for use to extinguish fires that involve appliances, tools, or other equipment that is plugged in or otherwise electrically energized, as well as for fires burning in close proximity to electrically-energized equipment. 
• Class D fire extinguishers are designed for use to extinguish combustible metals, such as magnesium or sodium, and are often designed for the specific type of combustible metal. This does NOT include ordinary carbon steel, only metals that will burn when ignited. 
• Class K fire extinguishers are designed to be used for putting out fires that involve oils and greases used for cooking in kitchens, such as vegetable and animal-based oils and fat.

Electrical Fire Prevention

12/10/2020 (Permalink)

We here at SERVPRO, want all residents to know that by taking precautions, you can help prevent electrical fires! 

The USFA recommends some great fire safety tips that go along with these additional recommendations.  Make sure... 

• Any electrical work is done by a licensed electrician
• To have a quality inspection is done when you’re considering buying a new home or doing a remodel.
• To plug only one heat-producing appliance (like a coffee maker, space heater or microwave) directly into a wall outlet at a time 
• To never use an extension cord with a heat-producing appliance or a major appliance
• Install arc-fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs) as they will shut off electricity when a dangerous condition occurs
• To replace broken or cracked electrical cords.
• To use ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) to reduce the risk of shock.  These shut off electrical circuits when they become a shock hazard.
• All light bulbs you use have the correct wattage.  Usually the lamp, etc. is labeled with what bulb should be used.  

Even with taking appropriate safety measures, fires can still happen.  Hopefully you won’t ever experience fire damage, but if you do, you know who to call! 

Fire Spreads Quickly

12/8/2020 (Permalink)

Fire has the unique ability to spread rapidly and cause an enormous amount of damage. In light of recent wildfires in the west, it is important to remember many structures can be restored with proper remediation efforts. The restoration team at SERVPRO is always ready to respond to home or business owners who have suffered a loss due to fire.

This damage resulted after a lawn mower caught on fire right outside the house. The owners were not at home at the time and the damage was extensive as the fire spread from the machine to the house very quickly. Our SERVPRO team was able to assess the site quickly and began remediation efforts immediately. Inside, the team removed sheetrock, removed affected contents, and performed smoke and soot remediation. HEPA vacuuming, deep cleaning of remaining materials and air purification were also performed after the demolition. Water from the fire department was removed via extraction and our effective drying equipment. After a building affected by fire is thoroughly cleaned, it is ready for our building services crew to repair the structure.

The Clothes Dryer: A Potential Fire Hazard

11/23/2020 (Permalink)

There’s perhaps nothing scarier for homeowners than the ignition of an unwanted fire in the home. When we consider our ideas of the most frequent catalysts of residential fires, the laundry room is most likely not included in that list. A whopping 92% of residential fires originate from an object in the laundry room, according to the National Fire Protection Agency. It may come as a surprise that this object is something that you use on a daily basis: the clothes dryer. Because fires have the ability to spread rapidly to other rooms and areas of the home, it is crucial to learn why clothes dryers can ignite fires and understand what steps you can take to protect your home.

Clean That Lint Filter!

One of the leading causes of clothes dryer fires is neglecting to clean the lint filter, a simple action that only takes seconds. It’s important to clean out the lint filter because lint is highly flammable and with each load, more and more lint accumulates in the lint filter. Additionally, too much lint in the filter can prevent proper airflow, which increases the risk for fire. Therefore, be sure to clean out your dryer’s lint filter between every load. It isn’t sufficient to only clean it out once a week or even once every few days. It’s a small action that can protect your home from disaster in the long run.

Other Ways to Prevent Dryer Fires

In addition to cleaning the lint filter daily, it is also crucial to take several other precautions in order to lower the chances of a fire igniting in your laundry room.

• Pay Close Attention To Clothing Labels

Be sure to check tags for drying instructions on every item that you intend to put in your dryer. Often, tags will tell you the specific heat setting required for that particular item, which can range anywhere from “tumble dry low” to “high heat”. Following these instructions is incredibly important. Some items that require a low drying temperature can contain types of rubber and, if exposed to high heat, the likelihood of a fire igniting may increase.

• Check the Outdoor Vent Flap

While we’re most familiar with managing the dryer inside of the house, it’s important to remember that dryers have outdoor vent flaps as well. This vent flap plays a key role in filtering out lint and hot air from the dryer. As a result, a fire can ignite if the vent flap becomes obstructed. Check your vent flap for debris on a regular basis in order to prevent an unwanted fire.

• Move Flammable Objects Away from the Dryer

In many homes, the laundry room stores general cleaning supplies for the household. However, keeping cleaning supplies located in close proximity to the dryer is risky, as cleaning materials are generally highly flammable. In the event that a fire ignites in the clothes dryer, the fire can spread quickly if there are other flammable materials nearby. Therefore, while it is best that cleaning supplies be stored in another room, be sure to at least keep them a safe distance from the dryer.

If Disaster Strikes…

While it’s a hard reality to face, it’s important to understand that unexpected fires can ignite, even if you take precautions. In the event that your home experiences fire damage as a consequence of a dryer fire, look no further than SERVPRO. We respond immediately and our experienced team of fire damage specialists will restore your home quickly and thoroughly. Damage to your home as a result of a fire is often a stressful and upsetting situation, but know that SERVPRO will be there every step of the way until your home is back to normal.

Smoke and Soot Cleanup

11/10/2020 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and Soot Facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire.

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

How Does Smoke Damage Affect the Contents in Your Home?

11/3/2020 (Permalink)

A fire can destroy your property and cause serious, irreversible damage. The flames move from one item to another, burning everything into ash. The heat created by the flames radiate, causing the surrounding items to crack, melt, and in some cases shatter. After the flames are put out, you have to deal with smoke damage.

If smoke damage is not addressed, it can devastate your home along with everything inside it. Smoke damage can even occur in rooms the fire never reached. For example, during wildfires, businesses and homes have been totally ruined just from the smoke while the building stayed untouched by the flames.

Even a small fire that is put out quickly may still cause smoke damage to the items inside. Also, smoke can impact your home’s structure. That is why cleaning up soot and smoke right away after a fire is so crucial. Smoke acts like an acid and can start to corrode many different materials if left too long.

If fire strikes a structure or home, or if you live near areas that are prone to wildfires, you must act fast to reduce the damage that occurs. Professional smoke damage restoration specialists can quickly assess the damage and create a customized mitigation plan to make sure your home is clear of all fire related damages.

What Can You Salvage?

The answer to this question depends on the extent of the damage and what something is made of. You also need to consider the cost of salvaging some items. You can work with a smoke damage specialist to figure out what items you should clean and which ones you should replace or discard.

How Will Smoke Impact Your Home?

Smoke affects materials in unique ways. Also, the type and temperature of the fire will result in different types of smoke damage through your home. One of the worst ways smoke can cause damage is if it gets into small crevices and cracks, since the particles are so small.

In fact, these issues often go undetected for a long time, leaving that lingering smell of smoke that may last for several months. The best way to remove the smell from your home is by removing or cleaning the affected items and to clean the building materials in the home with agents that are designed to remove the smell. Having this handled as quickly as possible will reduce the potential of cross-contamination.

How Quickly Do You Need to Act?

Time is something that is of the essence when you are talking about smoke damage. The sooner that you act, the more likely you will be to prevent serious damage. For example, there are some materials like porous items and synthetic fires that need intervention within hours of exposure to be saved.

Don't Battle A Fire On Your Own

11/2/2020 (Permalink)

Homeowners don’t usually know where to start and what to do after experiencing a fire emergency for the first time. Most people never have to go through the hardship of having a fire destroy or damage their home or business. But those who do understand the difficulty and challenges a fire can bring. 

Relocating Short-Term

Most often, even a small fire will displace the family from their home. The smoke and soot residue is dangerous and usually covers everything inside the house. The smoke moves throughout the structure and blankets all of the contents.

Even if the fire was contained and put out relatively quickly, hot smoke migrates to colder areas around the home and can affect other property levels. Smoke can travel through plumbing systems, pipes and go up several stories.

Living with family members or renting short-term is the best way to proceed after fire damage. Removing your family from the dangerous environment allows us to thoroughly clean and restore your home.

Contents Restoration

Taking care of your home and your belongings is critical. Usually, it is best to carefully pack all contents and move them to our warehouse, where they are inventoried, cleaned, and restored. We keep them safe until the home is ready, then transfer them back for you. This allows for better access to clean and restore the house and eliminates secondary damage during the restoration process.

Structure Restoration

We will remove and replace any part of the structure that was burned or damaged beyond the point of restoring. Our technicians carefully clean the walls, ceilings, and floors to remove and smoke and soot. The furnace and A/C unit will need to be cleaned thoroughly and ductwork inside the walls.

Fire Prevention Week 2020

10/6/2020 (Permalink)

Fire Prevention Week

According to NFPA, cooking is the leading cause of home fires and home fire injuries in the United States. Almost half (44%) of reported home fires started in the kitchen. Two-thirds (66%) of home cooking fires start with the ignition of food or other cooking materials.

“We know cooking fires can be prevented,” said Lorraine Carli, NFPA’s vice-president of outreach and advocacy. “Staying in the kitchen, using a timer, and avoiding distractions such as electronics or TV are steps everyone can take to keep families safe in their homes.”

Here are a few safety tips to keep you from having a cooking fire.

• Never leave cooking food unattended. Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, grilling or broiling. If you have to leave, even for a short time, turn off the stove.
• If you are simmering, baking, roasting, or boiling food, check it regularly, remain in the home while food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you that you’re cooking.
• You have to be alert when cooking. You won’t be alert if you are sleepy, have taken medicine or drugs, or consumed alcohol that makes you drowsy.
• Always keep an oven mitt and pan lid nearby when you’re cooking. If a small grease fire starts, slide the lid over the pan to smother the flame. Turn off the burner, and leave the pan covered until it is completely cool.
• Have a “kid-free zone” of at least 3 feet around the stove and areas where hot food or drink is prepared or carried.

For more general information about Fire Prevention Week and cooking fire prevention, visit www.fpw.org.

Fire Safety for Kids

8/25/2020 (Permalink)

Keep your family protected

A home fire is a devastating event, and one that you never count on happening. Your children are most at risk when this disaster occurs. In fact, children under five are twice as likely as other people to die in a home fire. Tragically, many home fires are started by children playing with dangerous household items – especially lighters and matches. Taking sensible precautions in the home and teaching your child how to escape from a fire can help your family avoid this type of heartbreak.            

Prevent Your Child from Starting Fires

The U.S. Fire Administration estimates that 300 people are killed and $280 million in property is destroyed each year as the result of children playing with fire.

• Keep matches, lighters and other ignitable substances in a secured location out of your child’s reach. Only use lighters with child-resistant features.
• Invest in flameless candles. These candles contain a light bulb rather than an open flame, and take the danger out of your child knocking over a candle.

Help Your Child Survive a Fire

• Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, inside bedrooms and outside sleeping areas. 
• Once a month check whether each alarm in the home is working properly by pushing the test button. 
• Replace batteries in smoke alarms at least once a year. Immediately install a new battery if an alarm chirps, warning the battery is low.

• Teach your children what smoke alarms sound like and what to do when they hear one.

• Ensure that all household members know two ways to escape from every room of your home, and where to meet up outside..

• Practice your fire escape plan at least twice a year and at different times of the day. Practice waking up to smoke alarms, low crawling and meeting outside. Make sure everyone knows how to call 9-1-1.

• Emphasize “get out, stay out.” Only professional firefighters should enter a building that is on fire—even if other family members, pets or prized possessions are inside.

• Use quick-release devices on barred windows and doors. Security bars without release devices can trap you in a deadly fire. If you have security bars on your windows, be sure one window in each sleeping room has a release device.

• Consider getting escape ladders for sleeping areas on the second or third floor. Learn how to use them, and store them near the windows. 

• Teach household members to STOP, DROP and ROLL if their clothes should catch on fire.

Pet Fire Safety

8/25/2020 (Permalink)

Protect you and your pets

Home fires are the most common disaster that the American Red Cross responds to – and also the most preventable.

• The best way to protect your pets from the effects of a fire is to include them in your family plan. This includes having their own disaster supplies kit as well as arranging in advance for a safe place for them to stay if you need to leave your home.

• When you practice your escape plan, practice taking your pets with you. Train them to come to you when you call.

• In the event of a disaster, if you must evacuate, the most important thing you can do to protect your pets is to evacuate them, too. But remember: never delay escape or endanger yourself or family to rescue a family pet.

The National Fire Protection Association estimates that nearly 1,000 home fires each year are accidentally started by the homeowners' pets. The American Kennel Club and ADT Security Services have joined forces to provide the following tips:

• Extinguish Open Flames - Pets are generally curious and will investigate cooking appliances, candles, or even a fire in your fireplace. Ensure your pet is not left unattended around an open flame and make sure to thoroughly extinguish any open flame before leaving your home.

• Remove Stove Knobs - Be sure to remove stove knobs or protect them with covers before leaving the house - a stove or cook top is the number one piece of equipment involved in your pet starting a fire.

• Invest in Flameless Candles - These candles contain a light bulb rather than an open flame, and take the danger out of your pet knocking over a candle. Cats are notorious for starting fires when their tails turn over lit candles.

• Secure Young Pets - keep them confined away from potential fire-starting hazards when you are away from home such as in crates or behind baby gates in secure areas.

• Keep pets near entrances when away from home. Keep collars on pets and leashes at the ready in case firefighters need to rescue your pet. When leaving pets home alone, keep them in areas or rooms near entrances where firefighters can easily find them.

• Affix a pet alert window cling and write down the number of pets inside your house and attach the static cling to a front window. This critical information saves rescuers time when locating your pets. Make sure to keep the number of pets listed on them updated.

Restoration Process After a Fire in 5 Steps

8/4/2020 (Permalink)

Fire Swept through the entire area, leaving everything covered in smoke and soot.

We pride ourselves on being quick and reliable during unexpected events like fires. Our restoration process may seem intense, but we've decided to break it down for you in 5 simple steps...

1. Inspection and Assessment

The company will send out a team of professional inspectors to determine the best course of action. They then will figure out what tools they'll need to get the job done. During the fire cleanup process, they will determine if pipes and wiring have been impacted, the extent of smoke damage and any hazardous conditions.

2. Board-Up and Tarping

Boards and tarps provide an excellent barrier to elements and possible thieves. The immediate priority after a fire is to prevent any further damage. 

3. Water Removal and Drying 

Equipment like fans and negative pressure devices speed up this step. Dehumidifiers are used to get the moisture out of walls and floors as quickly as possible.

4. Soot and Smoke Cleaning

This step takes specialized equipment and techniques that experienced fire cleanup personnel have to complete the job. 

5. Cleaning and Sanitizing

All exposed surfaces and personal belongings will be restored or replaced during the final cleanup process. Air scrubbers and fogging devices may also be used.

Call us at (916) 525 -1241 with any questions concerning our fire cleanup process!

Beware of These Common, Risky Fire Hazards in Older Homes

6/26/2020 (Permalink)

There’s no denying the charm of living in an older home. Arched doorways, ceiling medallions and other architectural details representative of a bygone era catch the attention of many homeowners. But along with the unique charms that come with living in an older home in Fair Oaks / Folsom, come unique hazards, such as fire risks. Purchasing an old home may require more than a lot of elbow grease, a few coats of paint and TLC touches throughout. Thoroughly investigating to uncover potential fire risks in your Fair Oaks / Folsom home is an important step to take to prevent catastrophic fire damage. Below are some of the most common fire hazards lurking in your older home.

1. Bad wiring

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), electrical failures or malfunctions were the second leading cause of U.S. home fires in 2012-2016, accounting for 13 percent of home structure fires. Antiquated wiring such as knob and tube wiring — which was the standardized method of electrical wiring in homes until the 1940s — poses a potential risk for fire damage.

Knob and tube wiring systems use porcelain knobs for running wires through unobstructed spaces and porcelain tubes to protect wires running through studs and joists.

If a knob and tube system is intact and functioning properly, it poses no immediate risk. Problems arise, however, when the rubber sheathing that’s used to insulate the wires degrades (modern electrical wiring is encased in plastic). As the rubber degrades over time, it exposes live wires to air and moisture, thereby increasing the chance of a short or a fire. The combination of modern insulation and knob and tube wiring also poses a fire hazard that can lead to devastating loss and the need for fire damage repairs and restoration to your Austin home.

This antiquated wiring system utilizes porcelain knobs to suspend the wires in open air to allow the heat to dissipate. When homeowners insulate the attic and walls of their notoriously drafty older homes, the insulation surrounding the wires will cause heat to build up, resulting in a potential fire. Currently, the United States National Electrical Code® (NEC) forbids use of loose, blown-in or expanding foam insulation over knob and tube wiring.

Older wiring is also rated for lower amps than is required by the multiple appliances we use today. This can result in circuits being overloaded, which can cause a fire. Knob and tube wiring systems also lack a grounding conductor. Grounding conductors reduce the chance of a fire and damage to sensitive equipment.

Hiring a certified electrician or electrical inspector to evaluate the wiring throughout your home is key to preventing a potential fire and preventing the need for fire damage repairs and restoration with the additional water damage that can occur, as is removing knob-and-tube wiring from inside your walls or attic prior to adding insulation.

2. Balloon-frame construction

According to firefighters, the way your home is constructed could make it a bigger fire risk and susceptible to fire damage. Balloon-frame construction, popular in the 1930s and 1940s, is a common sight in older homes. Unlike the modern platform building technique in which a floor (platform) is built, then wall studs (boards that function as framing elements in the home) are installed, then another floor (platform) and so on, balloon framing is characterized by wall studs that run continuously two or more stories high from the foundation to the attic floor. The problem with a balloon-frame house is that when a fire starts in the lower level of the home, there’s nothing to stop the flames from quickly spreading to the attic.

If you live in one of these homes, retrofitting the walls could be quite costly. Keep this in mind if you’re considering buying an older home with this type of framing construction.

3. Outdated appliances

Vintage appliances may add to the charm of your older home, but they also add an increased risk of fire. Your old-fashioned plug-in fan, vintage light fixture and chrome coffeemaker may still run, but they were made according to antiquated safety codes and may include frayed or damaged wires. An appliance that doesn’t come with a UL mark, signifying that Underwriters Laboratories has vouched for the item's safety in actual use, should be rewired.

4. Old furnaces

The average life expectancy of furnaces is 15 to 20 years. Furnaces that are 20 years or older pose a danger due to their use of an old-style pilot light for ignition. House fires that are started by pilot lights, bad ventilation and/or gas line leaks are another major fire hazard of an outdated heating system. The combustible materials or any flammable objects near a furnace also create an increased possibility of fire or explosion.

While replacing your furnace with an energy-efficient modern model is best, if you’re not ready to replace your old furnace, be sure to have it diligently inspected and serviced by a professional every year. 

5. Chimneys

Before spending your first cozy night indoors sitting by a crackling fire, be sure your fireplace chimney and/or wood stove has been recently inspected. It’s vital that your chimneys are inspected annually, and cleaned of creosote buildup — a flammable dark brown or black tar-like byproduct of the wood-burning process that’s deposited on the walls of a chimney. If creosote builds up in sufficient quantities – and the internal flue temperature is high enough – the result could be a chimney fire. 

A professional chimney cleaning typically includes sweeping the fireplace, inspecting the firebox, liners, smoke chamber and flue, and chimney exterior. Recommendations for proper operation or replacement of equipment and necessary repairs to any equipment or structure will also be made.

The Warmth of a Summertime Fire

6/15/2020 (Permalink)

Who doesn't love sitting outside in the summer with a nice fire going? It just goes hand and hand with summertime and roasting marshmallows. 

It sure can be relaxing but don't get too relaxed. You still need to be safe when having a fire. 

When you have campfires, make sure you build them at least 25 feet away from tents, shrubs or anything that has the potential to catch on fire.

When using a fire pit or outdoor fireplace, you are going to want to make sure you have placed these things at least 10 feet away from your home or structure or again anything that could possibly catch on fire. 

Make sure when your tending the fire to not have loose sleeves or articles of clothing on that could catch on fire as well. 

Always think ahead and look around you for possible fire hazards. Once that is all done you can relax around the glow of the fire.

If anything happens though, you know that SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom is here to help. We never take a night off even in the summertime. 24/7 365 days a year . There when you need us. 916-987-0400. 

Creating a Fire Safety Plan for Your Home

6/12/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® wants to make sure you and your family is covered in case a fire breaks out, by giving helpful tips to use before, during, and after a fire. Because you’re primary focus should be safety first and the first step of making sure you are safe is having a plan.

Before a Fire

• Create and practice a fire escape safety plan; make sure to practice at least twice a year.
• Make sure to check your fire alarms regularly.
• Make sure to create a safe meeting place
• Teach stop, drop, and roll

During a Fire

• Make sure to crawl under the smoke
• Before opening a door, make sure to feel the doorknob with the back of your hands.
• Once you made it out safely make sure to call 9-1-1; do a head count and make sure everyone is there. If not tell the fire department do not try and go back in yourself

After a Fire

• Ask and see if it’s safe to go back inside, make sure you take picture of things for records
• If the building is still standing make sure to call SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom at 916-987-0400. 

SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom hopes you and your family never has to deal with a fire but, in the chance you do call the people who will make sure that you and your family are taken care of, we make it “Like it never even happened.”

How To Prevent Grease Fires

6/10/2020 (Permalink)

Most often, grease fires happen when a pan is left on the stove unattended and for too long. Another way a grease fire can occur is when extra grease on the stove top or drip pan catches fire accidentally. Keeping these fires from happening is not hard if you stay in the kitchen while you are cooking, and take a few safety measures. A small mistake, however, can lead to the need for fire damage restoration from professionals such as SERVPRO. If the unthinkable does happen, our trained staff can help you to restore your home back to normal quickly.

Steps to Prevent Grease Fires: 
Always have a Class B Dry Chemical Fire Extinguisher close at hand, under the sink base cabinet, or in another reachable place. A small investment may save you a lot of money and also mitigate dangers caused by fires. As mentioned above, stay in the kitchen at all times when you are heating oil for pan-frying or deep-fat frying to prevent a grease fire. Leaving cooking unattended in your Fair Oaks home is the biggest reason for fires in the kitchen. Before you turn the heat on, also make sure that the burner on the stove top is cool. Clean any excess oil or grease spills from the drip pan around the burner, too. 

Before you start, check out the heat ratings of the cooking oil. These indicate the maximum temperature the oil can be cooked at before it catches fire. For most vegetable oils, for example, this temperature is around 450 degrees Fahrenheit, while for animal oils this temperature is around 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Attach a thermometer to the side of the pot to keep track of the temperature of the oil. When it is close to its burning point, it will let off smoke and ruin the taste of your food. Turn off the heat if this happens, and carefully remove the pan from the burner to let it cool off. 

Be careful when you are putting food into oil that is already hot. Use long utensils like tongs which let you gently insert the food without dropping it and splashing oil on yourself. Use a cover or lid to stop hot oil from splattering. Remove the lid carefully if you do have to stir the food, and put it back when you’ve finished. Also, as soon as any food or oil spills happen, clean them up. 

If the grease does catch fire, do not ever try to move the pot or pan. Use a metal lid to cover the pan and shut off the supply of oxygen to the fire. A small fire contained inside the pan can be extinguished by putting baking soda on the fire until it burns out, but if you do not feel safe controlling it by yourself, exit the house immediately and call 911 for help. If your home does sustain fire damage, remember to give our technicians at SERVPRO a call right afterward. Remember, do not ever use water to put a grease fire out! This can cause the grease to splash and spread the fire further. 

Accidents do still happen. If you experience a grease fire in your home and need fire damage repair, contact SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom right away once the fire is out. We can be reached at any time by dialing (916) 987-0400. 

How to Prevent Kitchen Fires

6/2/2020 (Permalink)

You can do a lot to prevent kitchen fires. Although you can’t remove every possible source of a kitchen fire, you can minimize fire risks by removing hazards and maintaining your kitchen. Follow these prevention tips to keep your kitchen safe:

• Keep appliances serviced, clean, and in good repair. Dump the crumb tray and clean out the toaster crumbs periodically from the toaster or toaster oven. Wipe out the microwave. Clean the oven. Unplug any appliances that start acting funny, then have them repaired or replace them.

• Unplug electric appliances when not in use. Toaster ovens, mixers, coffee makers, and so on, continue to draw electricity even when they’re not turned on. So if the wiring is old or faulty, or if the thermostat overheats, a fire could break out.

• Install a smoke detector near, but not in the kitchen. You don’t want the small amount of smoke or steam that cooking sometimes generates to constantly trigger the alarm — but you do want it to sense an actual kitchen fire.

• Use caution when lighting the pilot light or burner on a gas stove. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions

• Don’t use metal in the microwave. The sparks can turn into fire or can seriously damage your microwave.

   

• Don’t overfill pots or pans with oil or grease. The hot oil or grease, like in this figure, can splatter and cause a fire.

• Wipe up spills and don’t cook on a dirty stove. Grease buildup is flammable. A clean stove is a fire-free stove.

• Always roll up long sleeves and tie back long hair when cooking. You don’t need your beautiful flowing silk sleeves trailing in the spaghetti sauce, and you certainly don’t need to catch on fire!

• Never leave cooking food unattended. Stay in the kitchen, especially if you’re cooking in grease or if the oven is at a very high heat. Turn off the burner or oven if you need to leave the house or get caught up in a phone call.

• Keep dish towels, pot holders, and paper towels away from the stove. You might have left a burner on by accident, and built-up heat could ignite combustibles left near or on the stove or oven.

Summer Fire Safety

6/1/2020 (Permalink)

People all over the United States participate in summer vacation, camping, family reunions, picnics, Fourth of July and more. As favored as summertime is, it can pose a potential threat. Fires and injuries from fireworks and outdoor cooking happen every day during the summer months. The USFA has wonderful fire safety materials for free! Below are six fire safety tips to keep in mind during this summer.

Firework Safety

The U.S. Fire Administration recommends attending public fireworks displays and leaving the lighting to the professionals. A study from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) shows that over 200 people on average go to the emergency room with firework-related injuries in the month of July.

Grilling Safety

It’s important when grilling to wear short sleeves to prevent your clothes from catching on fire. Maintain a safe zone of 3 feet around the grill and remember to regularly remove grease or fat buildup from the trays below. Never leave a grill unattended, no matter what.

Lawn Mower Care

Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance plan on your mowing equipment. Remove debris and grass clippings from cutting units, mufflers, and engines. Never refuel a lawn mower if it’s overheated.

Gas Storage

Do not store gasoline, liquid fire starter, propane or any other type of flammable liquids near a grill or potentially dangerous places. The best place to store any sort of flammable liquid in a well-ventilated area outdoors. Make sure that the seal is tight and the container is stored upright on a level surface.

HVAC Maintenance

Annual inspections of your a/c system can prevent a house fire. Dust can settle in places and cause short circuits and other electrical malfunctions that will lead to an air conditioning fire.

Alarm Inspection

Checking your smoke detectors and/or carbon monoxide detectors regularly is one of the best fire prevention methods. Replace any burned out or old batteries and read the instructions on how to test your alarm to ensure that it works.

For more fire safety tips and materials check out USFA.fema.gov!

Home Fire Facts

5/13/2020 (Permalink)

• Working smoke alarms cut the risk of dying in home fires by half. 
• African Americans tend to be disproportionately affected by home fires. On average they account for 25% of all fire deaths even though they represent less than 13% of the population. 
• Most home heating fires are caused by heating equipment that is located too close to things that can easily burn, such as upholstered furniture, clothing, mattresses, or bedding.
• Portable space heaters were involved in one-third of all home heating fires and four out of every five home heating deaths.
• Nearly 50% of all electrical fires involve malfunctioning or faulty electrical distribution equipment (power strips) or lighting fixtures. 
• Nearly two-thirds of all fire deaths happen in homes that have no smoke alarms or malfunctioning units.
• Approximately 80% of home fire deaths are related to asphyxiation caused by breathing in poisonous smoke.
• Cooking is the leading cause of home fires and home fire related injuries, followed closely by home heating equipment. Smoking is the leading cause of all home fire deaths. 
• Two out of every five home fires start in the kitchen. 
• On average, 57% of child fire deaths affect children ages 4 or younger. For Children younger than 15, exposure to smoke and fire is the third leading cause of death after transportation accidents and drowning.

Source: https://www.preparecenter.org/th/topics/house-fire

How Fire Damage Can Lead to Water Damage

3/11/2020 (Permalink)

There’s no question that fires can cause devastating damage to a home. In a matter of minutes, you could watch in horror as your property and possession go up in flames. Fire damage isn’t the only concern you’ll have in this type of disaster. You also need to be aware of potential flooding on your Fair Oaks property as a result of firefighters’ efforts to put out the fire.

Response Following a Fire

Your first responsibility after alerting the authorities about a fire in your home is to get to safety. Then, you should let firefighting crews take over. The team will use a lot of water to ensure it puts out all the flames. This can result in water damage inside the structure. Here’s what will happen next:

• You should take photos and contact your insurance company.
• Avoid touching anything in the area of the fire.
• Contact a fire restoration and water cleanup professional.
  
  

Water Cleanup Issues

A fire crew’s primary concern is to get the fire under control, stop it from spreading and ultimately completely extinguish it. The responders will spray as much water out of a fire hose as possible to achieve these goals. While this may effectively put an end to the flames, it will likely cause other problems with water on the floor, ceiling, walls, furniture and electronics.

The Next Group Comes In

In order to salvage as much of your home as possible, a restoration company will remove water left behind from the fire department. Specialists will use high-powered extractors to remove any water from the area. The team will determine what items can be saved and what it must replace.

Clean and Sanitize

Fire damage can destroy the structure or your possessions, but water has its own ill effects. The restoration technicians will thoroughly sanitize the wet areas to keep mold from growing and to help eliminate other substances.

In addition to fire damage, an emergency such as this at your home can introduce a lot of water. In order to remove it and begin rebuilding your house, make sure you call the experts.

How to Protect Your Pets From a Fire

12/13/2019 (Permalink)

Approximately 500,000 pets are affected by fires every year, according to the United States Fire Administration. Promote the safety of the people and animals in your home in the event of a fire emergency by planning ahead. From preventative caution to making an evacuation plan that includes pet safety, here are three pet preparation steps you can take today.

3 Steps to Protect Pets From a Fire

1. Avoid open flames. Cats or dogs may knock candles over or singe their tails in open flames. Try a flameless candle alternative instead. You should also consider the risk posed by knobs on a gas stove. If you leave your pets unconfined at home while you are away, you may want to block the kitchen entrance or install protective covers to prevent pets from accidentally turning on the gas. 

2. Include pets in fire safety and evacuation plans. Prepare to safely evacuate pets along with the rest of your family in a fire emergency. Obtain and put up a front window cling to inform firefighters of the number and types of pets living in your home.

3. Gather pet records and supplies in a fire box. Store this box near an exterior door so that you can quickly grab all of these items during an evacuation. Make sure to include ownership and vaccination records as well as spare collars and leashes in case you need to control or restrain a frightened pet.

These simple steps can help you prevent fires and promote pet safety in the event of a fire emergency. You may also want to keep other home ownership or insurance records in a place where you can also easily find and take them in the event of an evacuation. Depending on the extent of a fire, you may also want to keep the number of a certified residential fire damage restoration company in Fair Oaks / Folsom, with these records.

Using Ozone To Remove Odors

12/13/2019 (Permalink)

When your home catches fire, the first thing you want to do is get the major damage repaired. Fire cleanup isn't complete, however, until you also rid your home of the lingering smell of smoke that the fire left behind, and it usually takes more than just cleaning the surfaces that were affected. If you are looking for home deodorization in Fair Oaks / Folsom, consider a company that uses ozone machines to combat odors.

When Is Ozone Used?

Any time there is a foul odor in your home after a fire, smoke cleanup professionals can use ozone to get rid of it. Such a smell can be caused by several things:

• Home fire
• Cigarette smoke
• Malfunctioning fireplace
  
  

Ozone works by attaching to the smoke molecules. This attachment causes a chemical reaction that neutralizes the smell and thus freshens the air.

What Does the Process Involve?

The technicians who perform the ozone treatment will likely want to explain the process to you so that you know what to expect. Because ozone is not something you ever want to breathe, your home must be vacant before the home deodorization treatment can begin. Fortunately, the process should only take a few hours, and then you and your family will be able to return.
Before the machine starts producing ozone, the affected area must be sealed. This keeps the ozone molecules concentrated in the area and allows them to work on the odor. Once the seal is in place, the machine is turned on. After a few hours, the area must be aired out before your home is ready to be inhabited again.
You don't have to settle for stale odors in your home after fire damage is cleaned and your property restored. If you need home deodorization, an ozone treatment may be your best bet. It only takes a few hours, and it leaves your home smoke-free.

Things to Know About Smoke Damage

12/4/2019 (Permalink)

When the firefighters leave, it may seem like the danger has passed and the home is safe from further destruction.  While fire may be the immediate danger, once it is gone, what it leaves behind will continue to affect the house. Ash and smoke will cause extensive corrosion, etching and discoloration not to mention powerful lingering odors. The only way to properly clean smoke and fire damage is to be extremely thorough. This entire process is very detailed. Ash residue is easily disturbed and can spread through the building with ease, causing nearly everything to need restoration.           

1. Smoke Migrates to Cooler Areas: The behavior of smoke during a fire is largely dependent on temperature. Smoke is typically hot and migrates to cooler regions of your home. Unfortunately, the cooler regions of your home are often hard to reach places, like cabinets and the underside of furniture. This makes the cleaning process much more difficult and is one of the major consequence of smoke damage. 

2. Smoke Uses Plumbing to Migrate Through Your House: Smoke naturally travels through plumbing systems, using holes around pipes to travel from floor to floor. This is the best way for smoke to travel throughout homes and buildings and cause further damage. Vents and plumbing systems are cleaned and often replaced if smoke damage is great enough. 

3. Wet, Smoldering Fires Produce the Most Damaging Smoke: The type of fire and the type of smoke produced by the fire make a huge difference when it comes to cleaning smoke damage. Wet, smoldering fires produce highly volatile and noxious smoke, the effects of which can persist for years if not cleaned properly.  

4. High Temperature Fires Produce Easier to Clean Smoke Damage: Contrary to what you might believe, high temperature fires tend to be less damaging than smoldering fires. That is because they burn very quickly and produce a different type of smoke that contains less damaging soot. As a result, even though the high temperature fire may seem like it would produce more damage, you may just get lucky. 

5. A Very Damaging Component of Smoke is Invisible: While the billowing clouds of dark smoke may seem the likely culprit, it’s the invisible protein residues of smoke that can also cause server damage. These residues can break down metal, wood, paint, and even porcelain, and their highly volatile chemical make-up allows them to penetrate deep into almost any substance while remaining totally invisible. Beware of this invisible enemy!

6. Smoke Damage Can destroy Metal and Wood Items: You might think that hearty substance like wood and metal would not be affected by smoke as much as upholstery and textiles. You’d be wrong. The noxious protein residues in smoke can break down brass, copper, wood, and even stone, causing them to decay at an ultra rapid rate. Be sure to let a professional know about the exposure of wood and metal items to smoke and the duration of the exposure. 

7. The Number 1 Rule to Prevent Lasting Smoke Damage: Get Air Moving: If you want to get a head start on cleaning up your home after smoke damage, follow the cardinal rule. Get air moving.  Use fans and open windows to keep air circulating throughout your home. This will prevent any remaining smoke residues from penetrating even deeper into your house and property.

SERVPRO Can Handle Any Size Fire Damage in Your Fair Oaks Home

12/3/2019 (Permalink)

Fires that do not do much in the way of actual fire damage may seem like something a homeowner could take care of on their own, but they should not. The reason has nothing to do with the water cleanup, but rather the smoke and soot that permeated porous materials and left an odor and a residue that cannot be just wiped away. 
 
When SERVPRO tackles the odor left behind from fire damage in your home, we first determine if there is any residual moisture left in building materials or possessions and ensure the area is thoroughly dried using our specialized techniques. Then our certified technicians access how much the odor has spread and implement measures to contain the smell and particles from any further spreading by setting up containment around the area. 
 
SERVPRO Odor Control Technicians are specialists in eliminating offensive odors and have many resources to attacking stubborn scents left behind by a fire. Our technicians perform a complete wipedown of affected areas using professional grade cleaners with both wet and dry sponges as determined by the type of residue. We often use HEPA filtered air scrubbers with an additional activated charcoal filter can capture odor-causing particles as small as 0.3microns. 
 
If the smell left behind proves stubborn, thermal fogging a very effective method we utilize to eliminate unpleasant scents. The thermal fogger delivers a solvent-based deodorizer that is heated and the dry fog acts in the same manner as smoke from a fire. The vaporized solution permeates and neutralizes foul odors in porous items and building materials leaving no trace of smoke odors. 
 
Foul odors do not have to be a reminder of fire damage in your home. Call SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom at 916-987-0400 and talk to one of our certified technicians. We are available 24/7 to come to your house and eliminate unpleasant odors leaving your home without a trace of smoke odor "Like it never even happened." 

Clothes Dryer Fire Safety

11/7/2019 (Permalink)

Clothes Dryer Fires- Facts and Stats

• Clothes dryers accounted for 92% of the fires; washing machines 4%, and washer and dryer combinations accounted for 5%.
• The leading factor contributing to the ignition of home fires involving clothes dryers was failure to clean, accounting for one-third (33%) of dryer fires.
• A mechanical or electrical failure or malfunction was involved in the vast majority of home fires involving washing machines.
• Fires involving clothes dryers usually started with the ignition of something that was being dried or was a byproduct (such as lint) of drying, while washing machine fires usually involved the ignition of some part of the appliance.

Clothes Dryers and Fire Safety- Quick Tips

• Have your dryer installed and serviced by a professional.
• Do not use the dryer without a lint filter.
• Make sure you clean the lint filter before or after each load of laundry. Remove lint that has collected around the drum.
• Rigid or flexible metal venting material should be used to sustain proper air flow and drying time.
•  Make sure the air exhaust vent pipe is not restricted and the outdoor vent flap will open when the dryer is operating. Once a year, or more often if you notice that it is taking longer than normal for your clothes to dry, clean lint out of the vent pipe or have a dryer lint removal service do it for you.
• Keep dryers in good working order. Gas dryers should be inspected by a qualified professional to make sure that the gas line and connection are intact and free of leaks.
• Make sure the right plug and outlet are used and that the machine is connected properly.
•  Follow the manufacturer’s operating instructions and don’t overload your dryer.
• Turn the dryer off if you leave home or when you you go to sleep.

Source: https://www.kentland33.com/safety/clothes-dryer-fire-safety/

3 Strategies to Keep Your Home Safe From Fire

10/25/2019 (Permalink)

FIRE IS ALWAYS IN THE news, but that seems to particularly be the case lately, from wildfires in the West to the recent church fires in the Southeast. In fact, according to the National Fire Protection Association, in 2013, the most recent year for such data, U.S. fire departments responded to approximately 1.2 million fires. Some 3,240 people, not including firefighters, lost their lives that year, and 2,755 of them died in home fires.

To keep your home safe from fire and protect yourself and your family, you need to put aside some time to think about a plan. Here are three things you should do:

Start with your insurance. If you want to skip this, you don't have to contact your insurance agent, but he or she may give you some good ideas and save you money. While most insurance agents and executives are probably swell people who don't want bad things to happen to good people, the entire business model is about avoiding risk so that insurers don't have to pay up when something catastrophic happens.

So if you can demonstrate that you're taking pains to make your house safe from a fire, your insurer will likely offer you a discount on your homeowners insurance. By protecting yourself, you help protect the insurer from having to fork over a fortune later. Assuming you impress your insurer, the company will likely thank you by giving you a 5 to 15 percent discount on your policy.

Make sure your smoke alarms are in working order. Not to get too dramatic, but doing this could make the difference between living and dying if a fire breaks out. Generally, smoke alarms run anywhere from $10 to a little over $100, depending on the type.

"There are two different types of smoke alarm detectors – ionization and photoelectric – and the ionization works better in detecting flames, and the other would work better in a smoldering fire," says Jake Lemonda, who has had 30 years of experience firefighting in New York City and is the chief representative and president of the Uniformed Fire Officers Association.

Which one is the best? Many experts will tell you to get both, and some of the more expensive detectors have dual technology sensors – that is, one detector is equally good at picking up flames and a smoldering fire.

Lemonda says your main objective should simply be to have a smoke detector, and, if possible, "get the type of smoke detector that's interconnected with the other smoke detectors in your home. In other words, if a smoke detector would go off in your kitchen, all of the detectors would go off."

The National Fire Protection Association recommends replacing your smoke alarm every 10 years. In fact, New York Governor Andrew Cuomo is reviewing a bill that, if passed, will require all stores in New York state to sell smoke alarms that have a 10-year, nonremovable battery, starting in 2017. One can imagine that someday, this may be an industry standard.

Check your home for fire-prone areas. You could drive yourself insane with worry, looking for all of the ways your house could catch on fire.

For instance, in February, a fire started in a bedroom at a house in London, and the culprit was an empty jar of the hazelnut spread, Nutella, sitting on a bedroom window sill. It's believed the refracted sunlight off the glass started a spark on the blinds. The family wasn't home, but the house burned down, and the family dog perished.

So in other words, think about it long enough, and you could quickly come to the conclusion that every home is a death trap, and that it's hopeless to attempt precautionary measures. But try not to go there. After all, there are a lot of routine maintenance tasks that aren't just smart to do for your home, but will also help reduce your risk of having a fire.

John Bodrozic, a co-founder of the home management website HomeZada.com, offers several examples of things you are probably already doing – so make sure that you continue doing them.

Clean out the dryer vent duct. You probably do this, anyway, right? Your clothes will dry faster if the vent duct that leads to the outside of your home is clear. But it's also a smart fire prevention tactic, Bodrozic says, suggesting you clean it out at least once a year. "Highly flammable lint builds up over time and causes house fires," he says.

Clean out the gutters and make sure the roof is free of debris. It's a smart idea anyway. Debris on the roof looks junky, and clogged gutters can lead to flooding inside the house. But also, Bodrozic says: "Dried out foliage … can easily catch fire."

Trim around the outside of the house. It'll help your landscaping look more attractive, but this, too, is part of basic fire prevention. "Cut down trees and limbs that overhang the house," Bodrozic suggests. "If they catch on fire, it's more likely to spread to the home."

On that note, he adds: "If you live in a forest fire area, try to clear a 50-foot perimeter around the house."

And if you are concerned about wildfires, ReadyforWildfire.org has some useful advice for homeowners. For instance, you might consider building or rebuilding your fence, using noncombustible materials, to protect your home.

Remove shrubs around the air-conditioning unit. This is assuming you've let that part of the yard get out of control. "[Air-conditioning units] need airflow to operate efficiently, and if there is dry brush around it, it starts to work harder, heat up more, and could spark a fire," Bodrozic says.

Keep fire extinguishers in the home. And just as important, take a look at them periodically. "Regularly check their pressure, especially in the kitchen, where cooking often starts a fire," Bodrozic says.

On that last point, it should be easy to check if your extinguisher is working. "They usually all come with a gauge, and usually the arrow indicates when it's charged properly," Lemonda says. "It'll be in the green section of the gauge."

Forgetting to replace an expired fire extinguisher appears to be a common problem. Businesses are frequently cited violations for having expired fire extinguishers, which typically cost about $20 to $30, although you can find them for as low as $10. Last year, the University of Georgia's independent student newspaper, "The Red and Black," did an investigation that found 35 extinguishers out of date in laboratories throughout campus – a dangerous situation, the paper pointed out, since labs "frequently experience chemical spills or other accidents."

In homes, cooking is the leading cause of fire and home injuries, according to the National Fire Protection Association. So make sure your fire extinguisher is in proper working order, and if not, buy a new one as soon as you can. If you think about it, if you don't have a working extinguisher, you really just own a big, red paperweight.

Source: https://loans.usnews.com/strategies-to-keep-your-home-safe-from-fire

How to Help Prevent House Fires

10/10/2019 (Permalink)

Using our claim data, we have developed a list of the most common causes of fire-related losses as well as some things you can do to help prevent them.

Faulty Wiring and Outlets Are One of the Top Causes of House Fires.

• Check the electrical cords throughout your home for signs of fraying, and replace all frayed wires.
• Do not pinch or cover electrical cords with items such as rugs.
• Be aware of the capacity of your home's electrical system. Do not overload your circuits. If you have questions about your home's electrical system, you may want to consult a licensed electrician.
• Understand the difference between surge protectors and power strips—both allow you to plug in multiple electronic devices, but only the surge protector will help protect these devices from a power spike. Use surge protectors to protect valuable electronic devices, such as computers and televisions.

Alternative Heating Sources May Also Create a Fire Hazard.

• Avoid using an older space heater, as it may not have adequate safety features compared to newer units. When purchasing a new space heater, ensure it is UL Listed and pay attention to the safety features.
• Do not place a space heater near furniture, curtains or other objects that could easily catch fire.
• If you plan to install an alternative heating system, such as a wood or pellet stove, follow the manufacturer's instructions. If you are unsure about how to properly install the system, consider hiring a professional to do the installation.
• Before installing a wood or pellet stove, check to ensure it complies with the laws of your state and municipality.

Safety Tips for Preventing Kitchen Fires

10/8/2019 (Permalink)

Did you know that cooking fires are the most common causes of home fires and home fire injuries? Pans left unattended while hot on the stove are obvious culprits but there are a number of less obvious causes that may be news to you. Because house fires are extremely dangerous for your family, the theme for this year’s National Fire Prevention Week (October 5 – 11) is Prevent Home Fires. Here are tips to prevent kitchen fires and keep your family safe.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, cooking fires are not only the leading cause of home structure fires, the majority of kitchen fire injuries occur when victims try to fight the fire themselves. Wouldn’t it be smarter to avoid cooking fires altogether? You can, with the following kitchen safety tips from third generation and 30-year fire department veteran John Borboa, fire chief in the Central Valley of California.

Stay in the kitchen

“The most common fires occur from people leaving food on the stove unattended. Don’t leave the kitchen while you have things cooking,” warns Borboa. If you have to leave the kitchen, turn off the stove and take your pots and pans off the heat. This is equally important if you are broiling food in the oven – take the food out of the oven and turn off the broiler.

Watch your clothing

Long, flowing sleeves, large-fitting shirts and even aprons can catch fire. Borboa recommends that, when cooking, wear short or close-fitted sleeves and keep your baggy shirts tucked in or tied back with a well-fitted apron.

Be aware of the items around the stovetop

Kitchen towels, oven mitts, appliance cords and even curtains can easily catch fire if set near a hot burner. Always move flammable items away from your stovetop. “And be careful when using towels to move a pot off the burner. Ideally, use an oven mitt, but if using a towel, be sure it doesn’t dangle down and touch the burner,” adds Borboa.

Keep a fire extinguisher in or near the kitchen

In the case you do have a fire, a fire extinguisher can make the difference between an easy to clean up burned pan and a kitchen engulfed in flames. Be sure you actually know how to use it, too.

Change the batteries in your smoke detector

Chances are you have a smoke detector in the kitchen or in the room adjacent to the kitchen. Borboa says its not enough to havea smoke detector – you need to make sure the smoke detector is operable. He recommends changing your smoke detector batteries every six months.

Never throw hot grease in the garbage can

“First of all, know the smoke points of your oils and never subject an oil with a low smoke point to high heat cooking – it can catch fire,” says Borboa. “Second, never throw hot grease in the garbage can. Even if the grease isn’t on fire, it can cause something in the garbage to burn.” Instead, let grease cool and dispose of it in an old coffee can.

Source: https://www.sheknows.com/food-and-recipes/articles/805729/safety-tips-to-prevent-kitchen-fires/

The Importance of a Home Fire Evacuation Plan

10/3/2019 (Permalink)

Here is a fictional story but it could happen to almost any family. The Smith family was home one night and at about 1:00 am a fire started in the house. The alarms woke everyone up and the parents rushed to make sure the kids got out of the home. However, by the time they got to little Frank’s room he was already gone. He went out the back door and was hiding under a patio table.

Everyone (except Frank) ended up in the backyard and his father, James, checked outside everywhere and couldn’t find him in all the noise and confusion. James decided to go back in the house and find his son but fortunately, he caught a glimpse of him under the table. This scenario could have easily ended in tragedy because the family had no fire escape plan from home.

Coming Up with a Fire Escape Plan

Walk through the entire house and figure out the best evacuation route. It’s important to get all family members together so everyone gets the same information. You need to have things on paper so they can be posted on the wall for everyone to see. 

Don’t forget to tell everyone to drop to the floor and crawl out of the house if it’s full of smoke or hot inside. Many people are seriously injured or killed from breathing super heated air, and the air is the coolest at floor-level.

Draw up your floor plan. You can download a home fire escape plan template by going to the Red Cross website . It's a good idea to come up with a home fire drill checklist too.

How to Stay Safe in the Kitchen

9/20/2019 (Permalink)

Have you ever thought about how you’d react in the actual event of a fire? Let’s hope it never happens – but if it did, here are some guidelines to help reduce long-term damage.

If there’s a fire in your oven or microwave:

First, turn off the oven or microwave. And whatever you do, don’t open the door – the lack of oxygen should suffocate the flames. But if flames remain, call 911.

If there’s a fire on your stove:

Never use water to put out a grease fire. Water can make things worse by further splattering the grease.

If the fire is small, try the following:

1. Turn off the stove and put a lid on the pan
   2. Throw baking soda on the fire – but don’t mistake it for flour, which can further exacerbate the flame
   3. Use a wet cloth or towel and throw it on the fire
   4. Pull out that fire extinguisher you just had installed
   5. If the fire is growing, call 911 immediately

Stay cool!

Thinking about potential kitchen disasters can be alarming, but that shouldn’t stop you from letting loose in the kitchen!

Cooking is fun, and as long as you stay mindful of these kitchen safety guidelines (while also installing all your preventative measures), you can continue to whip up some culinary masterpieces – crisis averted.

Source: https://www.lemonade.com/blog/how-to-stay-safe-in-the-kitchen/

The 7 Ways to Prepare for a Home Fire

9/20/2019 (Permalink)

1.Install the right number of smoke alarms. Test them once a month and replace the batteries at least once a year. Purchase smoke alarms here.  

2. Teach children what smoke alarms sound like and what to do when they hear one. 

3. Ensure that all household members know two ways to escape from every room of your home and know the family meeting spot outside of your home.

Area Wildfires Can Scare Residents. Smoke damage? Call SERVPRO!

8/6/2019 (Permalink)

Natural disasters such as wild fires can be catastrophic. Natural disasters, triggered by specific weather conditions, can leave a path of destruction and devastation in their wake.

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Every fire damage situation is a little different and requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same. When various materials burn, the soot they create differs greatly and requires a specific cleaning procedure. The steps listed below illustrate our process for the “typical” fire damage restoration. Learn more about our fire damage restoration process.

1. Emergency Contact
2. Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment
3. Immediate Board-Up and Roof Tarp Service (if needed)
4. Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)
5. Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces
6. Cleaning and Repair
7. Restoration

Have questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? Call us today! SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom. (916) 525-1241

Tips to Prepare Your Family for a Possible House Fire

8/6/2019 (Permalink)

1.) Change the batteries in smoke and CO2 detectors twice a year

It used to be recommended to just check the batteries in your smoke detectors twice a year – usually at the time change.  Now with us only having an average of 2-3 minutes to escape a fire, don’t just check the current functionality of your batteries in your smoke detectors, CHANGE THEM.  This could be life-saving.

2.)  Store flammable items/foods/chemicals properly and away from potential flames

There are a lot of liquids in your house.  Some of those liquids of which you may be unaware are highly flammable.  What’s interesting in that there are also a lot of flammable items in your kitchen – the room where we most often have an open fire.  Whether it is flammable liquids or other items we need to be aware that they are easily combustible so that they can be stored away from any significant flame or potential flame sources. 

3.) Have your kids draw up a fire exit plan.

If you give each of your kids a basic outline of each floor of your house and have them mark all the ways out of each room, you are reinforcing the different ways in which they can escape a fire if they were caught in one.

4.) Teach children what smoke alarms sound like and what to do when they hear one. 

5.) Ensure that all household members know two ways to escape from every room of your home and know the family meeting spot outside of your home.

If your family has just suffered a home fire, please call SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom at (916) 987-0400. We are here to help you 24/7.

Summer Fire Safety

8/1/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO would like for you to enjoy your summer, and to remember that enjoying the Summer means paying attention to the special safety concerns associated with summertime activities.  

Have FUN by being SAFE!

• Keep grills at least 10 feet from any structure.  Grilling mishaps cause more than 8,300 fires and send 3,000 people to the emergency room each year.
• Never grill indoors or near garages or porches, even if it's raining.
• Never leave the grill unattended, especially when young children or pets are nearby.
• Never use gasoline or kerosene to light a charcoal fire.  Both can cause an explosion.
• When grilling, use insulated, flame retardant mitts and long handled barbeque tongs and utensils to handle food and coals.
• Let coals/ash cool in the grill for at least 24 hours before disposing of them.  Never empty hot/warm coals into a garbage receptacle, and especially not into a plastic receptacle. 

Source: https://sf-fire.org/summer-safety-tips

Tips For After Fire Damage

8/1/2019 (Permalink)

After any fire damage situation, your primary focus should be safety:

• Is it safe to stay in the house?
• Electrical and "slip and fall" hazards are some of the most prevalent concerns.
• Only do activities that are safe for you to perform.
• Wet materials can be VERY heavy. Be careful!

What To Do After A Fire

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpets.
• Keep hands clean so as not to further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork.
• Place clean towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas.
• If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator and prop doors open.
• Clean and protect chrome with light coating of petroleum jelly or oil.
• Wash houseplants on both sides of leaves.
• Change HVAC filter.
• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers.

What NOT To Do After A Fire

• Don't attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces or shampoo carpet or upholstery without contacting your SERVPRO Franchise Professional.
• Don't attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire, heat or water without consulting an authorized repair service.
• Don't use any canned or packaged food or beverages that may have been stored near the fire, heat or water.
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. The wiring may be damaged.
• Don't send garments to an ordinary dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set smoke odor.

Need immediate help? Please call SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom 916-987-0400. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We can handle your emergency.

What Happens to Your Belongings after Fire Damage

7/9/2019 (Permalink)

Fire not only affects the structure of your home but it also affects your belongings. SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom is here to help! SERVPRO understands your furniture, keepsakes, clothing and belongings are extremely important to you. SERVPRO understands that some of these items are essential to making a house a home. 

Being overwhelmed is a totally reasonable response after a fire. We are here to make this awful situation better for you. When necessary, SERVPRO can complete move-outs and pack-outs for you! If your home requires extensive restoration or cleaning due to the damage from the fire, we can organize an efficient move-out of contents from the affected area. Move-outs allow for a quicker rebuild/remodeling and protects contents from damage during the remodel. While the rebuild/remodel process occurs, your items can be inventoried and cleaned at our office.

Need immediate help? SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom is here to take care of you – call 916-987-0400! We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. 

Why You Need a Home Inventory Checklist

6/25/2019 (Permalink)

The average home has approximately over 300,000 items. If a disaster such as a floor, fire, or theft were to destroy your home, would you recall all the detail necessary to provide a claim report to your insurance company?

In the event of a claim, insurers require you to substantiate your loss in as much detail as possible. “The last thing most of us want to do is spend a weekend documenting all our stuff. But almost as heartbreaking as losing a home to a disaster is trying to re-create a home inventory after the fact,” says Carole Walker, executive director of the Rocky Mountain Insurance Information Association.

The prospect of cataloging everything you own can be daunting, but technology can help. Check whether your insurer offers any software, smartphone apps or other tools to help with the process. Both Allstate and Liberty Mutual have free apps that let you create an inventory of your personal property. The Allstate Digital Locker even allows you to store your inventory in the cloud. State Farm has a home inventory checklist anyone can download.

Dig out every receipt you can. Locate the make, model and serial numbers for appliances and electronics, usually on the back or bottom. If you purchased that refrigerator 10 years ago and tossed the receipt, it’s okay. Open the door and look inside for a plate with the identifying information. Note the data or snap a picture of it.

Then proceed room by room. The quickest method is to make a video. Stand in the center of a room and narrate as you record. Film the entire space, including every wall, the ceiling and floor. Describe every item and feature, such as hardwood flooring or that pricey light fixture, to the best of your ability. Some detail is better than nothing.

Once it’s finished, don’t let your inventory become part of the loss. The most complete home inventory is worthless if you can’t get to it. Store it in the cloud, iCloud, Dropbox, OneDrive, etc. At a minimum, copy your files and any videos to a flash drive and give it to a friend or relative in another town, store it in a safe-deposit box, or email the file to yourself.

Source

Are you already working through your own disaster? Call SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Laguna at 916-987-0400 to help you through this time. SERVPRO's employees have been trained to help and assist you during this time. It can be an overwhelming time - SERVPRO will help you!

Make a wildfire action plan.

4/10/2019 (Permalink)

wildfire

CalFire has many great resources to help prepare you for a wildfire near you. Here is some information to get you started.  

CREATE A WILDFIRE ACTION PLAN

Your Wildfire Action Plan must be prepared, and familiar to all members of your household well in advance of a wildfire. Use the checklist below to help create your plan. Each family’s plan will be different, depending on a variety of issues, needs, and situations.

YOUR WILDFIRE ACTION PLAN CHECKLIST
Create an evacuation plan that includes:

• A designated emergency meeting location outside the fire or hazard area. This is critical to determine who has safely evacuated from the affected area.
• Several different escape routes from your home and community. Practice these often so everyone in your family is familiar in case of emergency.
• Have an evacuation plan for pets and large animals such as horses and other livestock.
• A Family Communication Plan that designates an out-of-area friend or relative as a point of contact to act as a single source of communication among family members in case of separation. (It is easier to call or message one person and let them contact others than to try and call everyone when phone, cell, and internet systems can be overloaded or limited during a disaster.)

Be Prepared:

• Have fire extinguishers on hand and train your family how to use them (check expiration dates regularly).
• Ensure that your family knows where your gas, electric, and water main shut-off controls are located and how to safely shut them down in an emergency.
• Assemble an Emergency Supply Kit for each person, as recommended by the American Red Cross. (See next section for details.)
• Maintain a list of emergency contact numbers posted near your phone and in your emergency supply kit.
• Keep an extra Emergency Supply Kit in your car in case you cannot get to your home because of fire or other emergency.
• Have a portable radio or scanner so you can stay updated on the fire.
• Tell your neighbors about Ready, Set, Go! and your Wildfire Action Plan.

To find out more visit: http://www.readyforwildfire.org/Wildfire-Action-Plan/

If you have suffered from a wildfire and need fire damage restoration, SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom is here to help. Call us 24 hours as day at 916-525-1241 or visit our website for more information on all our services: 

http://www.SERVPROfairoaksfolsom.com/ 

Keeping Your Family Safe During the Holiday Season

11/7/2018 (Permalink)

11/9/2017

Keeping your family safe from fire during the holidays is so important.

Cooking fires are common during Thanksgiving and the holidays. The US Fire Administration has quite a few tips and suggestions on their website to help with fire safety during the holidays. 

If you or your loved one has recently suffered from a fire, be sure to contact SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom to help you with your restoration needs. Call us 24/7 at 916-987-0400. 

Are you considering frying a turkey for Thanksgiving?  Please consider the 

Five dangers of deep frying a turkey:

1. Turkey fryers can easily tip over, spilling hot cooking oil over a large area.
2. An overfilled cooking pot will cause cooking oil to spill when the turkey is put in, and a partially frozen turkey will cause cooking oil to splatter when put in the pot.
3. Even a small amount of cooking oil spilling on a hot burner can cause a large fire.
4. Without thermostat controls, deep fryers can overheat oil to the point of starting a fire.
5. The sides of the cooking pot, lid and pot handles can get dangerously hot.

For more information visit the US Fire Administration website: https://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/outreach/cooking.html

If you need help with your emergency visit: http://www.SERVPROfairoaksfolsom.com/. If you have a water or fire emergency be sure to call SERVPRO of Fair Oaks/Folsom at 916-525-1241 so we can help you today!

You can follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SERVPROfairoaksfolsom 

Protecting Your Family From Fire During Halloween

10/3/2018 (Permalink)

fire safety, halloween fire prevention, fire safety during holidays

Halloween is a fun time of year, but without precautions it can lead to house fires. The Cal Fire website offers some great tips and suggestions to keep Halloween safe and fun.

If you are faced with fire damage, call SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom at 916-987-0400 for 24/7 emergency service. 

TIPS FOR CHOOSING THE RIGHT COSTUMES:

Purchase costumes made of flame resistant or retardant material (Check the label). Fire resistant does not mean fire proof
Keep hemlines short enough to prevent tripping
Avoid loose and baggy sleeves. Stay away from billowing or long trailing fabric.
Use make-up instead of masks which can obstruct vision.
Use glow in the dark reflective tape on your costume.
TIPS FOR DECORATING:

Never use candles to light jack-o’-lanterns, use battery powered lights.
Instruct children to stay away from open flames.
Be extremely careful with cornstalks and other harvest season items. Keep them away from sources of heat.
Keep exits clear of decorations so nothing blocks escape routes

TIPS FOR HALLOWEEN NIGHT:

Children should always go trick-or-treating with a responsible adult.
If driving, be sure to watch for trick-or-treaters who are too busy to watch for you.
Provide children with flashlights or glow sticks to carry for lighting and visibility.
Do not allow children to carry sharp sticks or other objects that could cause injury to others.
Keep your yard free of tripping hazards, such as garden tools, hoses, etc.
Closely inspect all candy before allowing children to eat it. Discard any unwrapped treats from a stranger. If in doubt, throw it out.

For more details visit http://www.fire.ca.gov/communications/communications_firesafety_halloween 

Visit http://www.SERVPROfairoaksfolsom.com/fire-smoke-damage-restoration to find out how SERVPRO can help you during a fire emergency. 

You can follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SERVPROfairoaksfolsom  

Tips for Smoke and Fire Restoration from IICRC Firm SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom

9/21/2018 (Permalink)

fire damage smoke damage

SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.

IICRC has many tips and suggestions for consumers. Please consider the following information from the IICRC regarding fire and smoke restoration:

In the wake of a fire that has covered homes with smoke and ash, it’s important to begin clean up as soon as possible in order to prevent permanent damage or discoloration from soot residue. The IICRC provides the following tips for fire victims facing clean up:

• Practice safety first. Use a dust mask (like painters use) and gloves as you work.
• Ventilate the home. Place a box fan in an open window to draw the air and dust out.
• Clean from top to bottom. Start with the ceilings, walls and fixtures, and work your way down to the contents of the room, then to the floor.
• Vacuum floors and upholstery. Make sure your vacuum cleaner has a high efficiency filter. Otherwise, you risk blowing soot back into the air.
• Some draperies, clothing and machine-washable items may be laundered. Use a mild alkaline cleaner to neutralize the acid in the soot. Fine clothing should be dry cleaned.
• Most exterior walls (brick, stone, wood, paint, siding) and eaves can be cleaned by spraying with a detergent, agitating soot with a soft-bristled brush, pressure washing from bottom to top, then rinsing from top to bottom.
• If the damage and residue are heavy, it may be best to hire a professional to thoroughly restore your home and belongings.
• Check with your insurance company to see if smoke damage from outdoor sources is covered by your policy.
• If the fire has warped or distorted the structure, consult a licensed general contractor.

Professional restoration technicians  know that damage increases and restoration costs escalate the longer neutralization, corrosion control and cleaning is delayed. When homeowners prolong the restoration of their home, they extend the effects brought on by the smoke exposure. The following is a timeline of the effects of fire and smoke on a home.

For more details, visit http://www.IICRC.org/consumers/care/fire-smoke-restoration/ 

Need a professional? Call SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom at 916-987-0400 today. We are here to help 24/7. 

If you need help with your emergency visit: http://www.SERVPROfairoaksfolsom.com/. If you have a water or fire emergency be sure to call SERVPRO of Fair Oaks/Folsom at 916-525-1241 so we can help you today!

You can follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SERVPROfairoaksfolsom

Preparing for Fire Prevention Week October 7-13, 2018

9/21/2018 (Permalink)

fire prevention #firepreventionweek

In a fire, seconds count. Seconds can mean the difference between residents of our community escaping safely from a fire or having their lives end in tragedy.

From the NFPA.org website:

This year’s FPW campaign, “Look. Listen. Learn. Be aware. Fire can happen anywhere,” works to educate people about three basic but essential steps to take to reduce the likelihood of having a fire––and how to escape safely in the event of one:

“LOOK” for places fire could start. Take a good look around your home. Identify potential fire hazards and take care of them.

“LISTEN” for the sound of the smoke alarm. You could have only minutes to escape safely once the smoke alarm sounds. Go to your outside meeting place, which should be a safe distance from the home and where everyone should know to meet.

“LEARN” two ways out of every room and make sure all doors and windows leading outside open easily and are free of clutter.

Also, Sparky the Fire Dog® has a new friend, Simon, who is helping teach this year’s FPW messages – He’s a smart, resourceful character who will join Sparky in spreading fire-safety messages to adults and children alike.

Other tips include: 

• Draw a map of your home by using this grid: http://www.nfpa.org/~/media/files/public-education/campaigns/fire-prevention-week/fpw17/fpw17escapeplangrid.pdf?la=en  with all members of your household, marking two exits from each room and a path to the outside from each exit. Children can then visualize the exits.
• Practice your home fire drill twice a year. Conduct one at night and one during the day with everyone in your home, and practice using different ways out.
• Teach children how to escape on their own in case you can’t help them.
• Make sure the number of your home is clearly marked and easy for the fire department to find.
• Close doors behind you as you leave – this may slow the spread of smoke, heat, and fire.
• Once you get outside, stay outside. Never go back inside a burning building.

Visit National Fire Protection Association for the complete article, watch their video and find more resources: http://www.nfpa.org/public-education/campaigns/fire-prevention-week-2

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? Call Us Today – SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom 916-525-1241.

If you need help with your fire emergency visit http://www.SERVPROfairoaksfolsom.com/fire-smoke-damage-restoration to find out how SERVPRO is able to help you.  You can follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SERVPROfairoaksfolsom

Orangevale, Folsom or Fair Oaks Smoke and Soot Cleanup. #heretohelp

8/24/2018 (Permalink)

fire, soot, smoke, fire damage

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? Call Us Today – SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom 916-525-1241.

If you need help with your fire emergency visit http://www.SERVPROfairoaksfolsom.com/fire-smoke-damage-restoration to find out how SERVPRO is able to help you. #heretohelp #SERVPROFairOaksFolsom

Area Wildfires Can Scare Residents. Smoke damage? Call SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom

8/7/2018 (Permalink)

fire damage, fire restoration, help from fire

No need to worry about area wildfires. If one is near your home, be sure to call SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom to clean up the smoke damage. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Every fire damage situation is a little different and requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same. When various materials burn, the soot they create differs greatly and requires a specific cleaning procedure. The steps listed below illustrate our process for the “typical” fire damage restoration. Learn more about our fire damage restoration process.

1. Emergency Contact
2. Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment
3. Immediate Board-Up and Roof Tarp Service (if needed)
4. Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)
5. Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces
6. Cleaning and Repair
7. Restoration

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – (916) 987-0400

If you need help with your fire emergency visit http://www.SERVPROfairoaksfolsom.com/fire-smoke-damage-restoration to find out how SERVPRO is able to help you.

#SERVPROFairOaksFolsom

Keep Your Family Safe From Fire During the Holidays

11/9/2017 (Permalink)

Keeping your family safe from fire during the holidays is so important.

Cooking fires are common during Thanksgiving and the holidays. The US Fire Administration has quite a few tips and suggestions on their website to help with fire safety during the holidays. 

If you or your loved one has recently suffered from a fire, be sure to contact SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom to help you with your restoration needs. Call us 24/7 at 916-987-0400. 

Are you considering frying a turkey for Thanksgiving?  Please consider the 

Five dangers of deep frying a turkey:

1. Turkey fryers can easily tip over, spilling hot cooking oil over a large area.
2. An overfilled cooking pot will cause cooking oil to spill when the turkey is put in, and a partially frozen turkey will cause cooking oil to splatter when put in the pot.
3. Even a small amount of cooking oil spilling on a hot burner can cause a large fire.
4. Without thermostat controls, deep fryers can overheat oil to the point of starting a fire.
5. The sides of the cooking pot, lid and pot handles can get dangerously hot.

For more information visit the US Fire Administration website: https://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/outreach/cooking.html

If you need help with your emergency visit: http://www.SERVPROfairoaksfolsom.com/. If you have a water or fire emergency be sure to call SERVPRO of Fair Oaks/Folsom at 916-525-1241 so we can help you today!

You can follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SERVPROfairoaksfolsom

Are you prepared for house fire?

10/2/2017 (Permalink)

House fires can be devastating for a family. You may never truly feel prepared, but there are steps you can take to become prepared. The American Red Cross has gone to great lengths on their web page providing tips and suggestions on home fire prevention. 

The 7 Ways to Prepare for a Home Fire

1. Install the right number of smoke alarms. Test them once a month and replace the batteries at least once a year.
2. 
   Teach children what smoke alarms sound like and what to do when they hear one.
3. 
   Ensure that all household members know two ways to escape from every room of your home and know the family meeting spot outside of your home.
4. 
   Establish a family emergency communications plan and ensure that all household members know who to contact if they cannot find one another.
5. 
   Practice escaping from your home at least twice a year. Press the smoke alarm test button or yell “Fire“ to alert everyone that they must get out.
6. 
   Make sure everyone knows how to call 9-1-1.
7. 
   Teach household members to STOP, DROP and ROLL if their clothes should catch on fire.

For more details visit:

http://www.redcross.org/get-help/prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/fire/home-fire-preparedness

If you need help with your fire emergency visit http://www.SERVPROfairoaksfolsom.com/fire-smoke-damage-restoration to find out how SERVPRO is able to help you.

If you have a water or fire emergency be sure to call SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom at 916-525-1241 so we can help you today!

You can follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SERVPROfairoaksfolsom

Protecting Your Family From Fire During Halloween

10/2/2017 (Permalink)

Halloween is a fun time of year, but without precautions it can lead to house fires. The Cal Fire website offers some great tips and suggestions to keep Halloween safe and fun.

If you are faced with fire damage, call SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom at 916-987-0400 for 24/7 emergency service. 

TIPS FOR CHOOSING THE RIGHT COSTUMES:

Purchase costumes made of flame resistant or retardant material (Check the label). Fire resistant does not mean fire proof
Keep hemlines short enough to prevent tripping
Avoid loose and baggy sleeves. Stay away from billowing or long trailing fabric.
Use make-up instead of masks which can obstruct vision.
Use glow in the dark reflective tape on your costume.
TIPS FOR DECORATING:

Never use candles to light jack-o’-lanterns, use battery powered lights.
Instruct children to stay away from open flames.
Be extremely careful with cornstalks and other harvest season items. Keep them away from sources of heat.
Keep exits clear of decorations so nothing blocks escape routes

TIPS FOR HALLOWEEN NIGHT:

Children should always go trick-or-treating with a responsible adult.
If driving, be sure to watch for trick-or-treaters who are too busy to watch for you.
Provide children with flashlights or glow sticks to carry for lighting and visibility.
Do not allow children to carry sharp sticks or other objects that could cause injury to others.
Keep your yard free of tripping hazards, such as garden tools, hoses, etc.
Closely inspect all candy before allowing children to eat it. Discard any unwrapped treats from a stranger. If in doubt, throw it out.

For more details visit http://www.fire.ca.gov/communications/communications_firesafety_halloween 

Visit http://www.SERVPROfairoaksfolsom.com/fire-smoke-damage-restoration to find out how SERVPRO can help you during a fire emergency. 

You can follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SERVPROfairoaksfolsom  

If you have a water or fire emergency be sure to call SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom at 916-525-1241 so we can help you today!

Tips for Smoke and Fire Restoration from IICRC Firm SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom

9/28/2017 (Permalink)

smoke damage fire damage

SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.

IICRC has many tips and suggestions for consumers. Please consider the following information from the IICRC regarding fire and smoke restoration:

In the wake of a fire that has covered homes with smoke and ash, it’s important to begin clean up as soon as possible in order to prevent permanent damage or discoloration from soot residue. The IICRC provides the following tips for fire victims facing clean up:

• Practice safety first. Use a dust mask (like painters use) and gloves as you work.
• Ventilate the home. Place a box fan in an open window to draw the air and dust out.
• Clean from top to bottom. Start with the ceilings, walls and fixtures, and work your way down to the contents of the room, then to the floor.
• Vacuum floors and upholstery. Make sure your vacuum cleaner has a high efficiency filter. Otherwise, you risk blowing soot back into the air.
• Some draperies, clothing and machine-washable items may be laundered. Use a mild alkaline cleaner to neutralize the acid in the soot. Fine clothing should be dry cleaned.
• Most exterior walls (brick, stone, wood, paint, siding) and eaves can be cleaned by spraying with a detergent, agitating soot with a soft-bristled brush, pressure washing from bottom to top, then rinsing from top to bottom.
• If the damage and residue are heavy, it may be best to hire a professional to thoroughly restore your home and belongings.
• Check with your insurance company to see if smoke damage from outdoor sources is covered by your policy.
• If the fire has warped or distorted the structure, consult a licensed general contractor.

Professional restoration technicians  know that damage increases and restoration costs escalate the longer neutralization, corrosion control and cleaning is delayed. When homeowners prolong the restoration of their home, they extend the effects brought on by the smoke exposure. The following is a timeline of the effects of fire and smoke on a home.

For more details, visit http://www.IICRC.org/consumers/care/fire-smoke-restoration/ 

Need a professional? Call SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom at 916-987-0400 today. We are here to help 24/7. 

If you need help with your emergency visit: http://www.SERVPROfairoaksfolsom.com/. If you have a water or fire emergency be sure to call SERVPRO of Fair Oaks/Folsom at 916-525-1241 so we can help you today!

You can follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SERVPROfairoaksfolsom

Preparing for Fire – Fire Prevention Week 2017

9/28/2017 (Permalink)

In a fire, seconds count. Seconds can mean the difference between residents of our community escaping safely from a fire or having their lives end in tragedy.

That’s why this year’s Fire Prevention Week theme: “Every Second Counts: Plan 2 Ways Out!” is so important. It reinforces why everyone needs to have an escape plan. Here’s this year’s key campaign messages:

• Draw a map of your home byusing this grid: http://www.nfpa.org/~/media/files/public-education/campaigns/fire-prevention-week/fpw17/fpw17escapeplangrid.pdf?la=en  with all members of your household, marking two exits from each room and a path to the outside from each exit. Children can then visualize the exits.
• Practice your home fire drill twice a year. Conduct one at night and one during the day with everyone in your home, and practice using different ways out.
• Teach children how to escape on their own in case you can’t help them.
• Make sure the number of your home is clearly marked and easy for the fire department to find.
• Close doors behind you as you leave – this may slow the spread of smoke, heat, and fire.
• Once you get outside, stay outside. Never go back inside a burning building.

Visit National Fire Protection Association for the complete article, watch their video and find more resources: http://www.nfpa.org/public-education/campaigns/fire-prevention-week-2

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? Call Us Today – SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom 916-525-1241.

If you need help with your fire emergency visit http://www.SERVPROfairoaksfolsom.com/fire-smoke-damage-restoration to find out how SERVPRO is able to help you.  You can follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SERVPROfairoaksfolsom

Area Wildfires Can Scare Residents. Smoke damage? Call SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom.

8/24/2017 (Permalink)

No need to worry about area wildfires. If one is near your home, be sure to call SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom to clean up the smoke damage. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Every fire damage situation is a little different and requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same. When various materials burn, the soot they create differs greatly and requires a specific cleaning procedure. The steps listed below illustrate our process for the “typical” fire damage restoration. Learn more about our fire damage restoration process.

1. Emergency Contact
2. Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment
3. Immediate Board-Up and Roof Tarp Service (if needed)
4. Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)
5. Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces
6. Cleaning and Repair
7. Restoration

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – (916) 987-0400

If you need help with your fire emergency visit http://www.SERVPROfairoaksfolsom.com/fire-smoke-damage-restoration to find out how SERVPRO is able to help you.

Orangevale, Folsom or Fair Oaks Smoke and Soot Cleanup. Here to help.

8/24/2017 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? Call Us Today – SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom 916-525-1241.

If you need help with your fire emergency visit http://www.SERVPROfairoaksfolsom.com/fire-smoke-damage-restoration to find out how SERVPRO is able to help you.

Remodeling after Fire Damage

7/13/2017 (Permalink)

If you are faced with fire damage, call SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom at 916-987-0400 for 24/7 emergency service.

Dealing with water or fire damage can stressful. Hopefully, you have had a chance to work with SERVPRO of Fair Oaks/Folsom to get you through that trying time. However, when it is all said and done, you may have some remodeling to do. Though it is certainly rough to deal with the damage, remodeling can be enjoyable and even fun.  

According to ImproveNet.com there are quite of few things to consider when repairing after fire and smoke damage:

Average Cost of Fire and Smoke Damage Restoration and Repair 

The average cost of repair and restoration services after fire and smoke damage is $2,950. The total cost that a homeowner pays for such repairs will depend on the location and extent of the damage. For example, fire damage to a kitchen may cost more to repair than damage to a closet due to the expense of replacing costly cabinets and appliances. The out of pocket amount that a homeowner pays to have fire and smoke damage repairs might be reduced by homeowner's insurance coverage. 

Types of Repairs for Fire and Smoke Damage 

Water used to extinguish a fire can saturate the walls and floors of the home. The water can quickly cause mold growth and wood rot if the water isn't removed and the home thoroughly dried. Soot from the fire can saturate and stain anything upholstered. Professional restoration is needed in order to salvage the furnishings as well as linens, draperies and carpet. Smoke discoloration and odors can pervade almost everything in a home, including furnishings, carpets and rugs, linens and clothing. Professional restoration is essential in order to save those items. The smoke can also damage the home's air ducts, resulting in foul odors each time the furnace or air conditioner turns on. Restoration and repair services are needed to clean the ducts before the HVAC system is used again.

Visit: http://www.improvenet.com/r/costs-and-prices/fire-damage-restoration for more details.

If you need help with your fire emergency visit http://www.SERVPROfairoaksfolsom.com/fire-smoke-damage-restoration to find out how SERVPRO is able to help you.

If you have a water or fire emergency be sure to call SERVPRO of Fair Oaks/Folsom at 916-525-1241 so we can help you today!

California's "Wildfire Awareness Week"

5/9/2017 (Permalink)

Each year California highlights the importance of wildfire prevention and preparedness by declaring the first full week of May as “Wildfire Awareness Week”. This year during the week of May 3-9, CAL FIRE and fire departments across the state will remind residents of the dangers posed by wildfires and the simple steps that should be followed to prepare for and prevent them. With this year’s record low rain and continued drought impacts, the importance of preparing for wildfires has only been heightened.  

Ready, Set, Go!
With fire activity already above average, Californians should remember “Ready, Set, Go!”. Being Ready for a wildfire starts by maintaining 100 feet of Defensible Space and hardening homes with fire resistant building materials. Being Set by having an evacuation plan and Wildfire Action Plan. Lastly, when a wildfire strikes put your evacuation plan in effect and Go!; evacuate early.  

One Less Spark, One Less Wildfire
Approximately 95 percent of all wildfires are sparked by the activity of people, which means that almost all wildfires are preventable. One of the leading causes of wildfires is outdoor powered equipment. Use powered equipment before 10 a.m. and never on hot and windy days. When clearing dead or dying grass don’t use a lawn mower or weed trimmer with a metal blade. Make sure your vehicle is properly maintained with nothing dragging on the ground like trailer chains. All residents and vacationers need to be extra cautious outdoors because one less spark means one less wildfire.

Too read this complete article and others like it visit: www.ReadyForWildfire.org.

About SERVPRO ofFair Oaks/ Folsom 
SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. 
Follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/SERVPROfairoaksfolsom/  and online http://www.SERVPROfairoaksfolsom.com.

Fire Safety During the Holidays

11/9/2016 (Permalink)

Cooking fires are common during Thanksgiving and the holidays. The US Fire Administration has quite a few tips and suggestions on their website to help with fire safety during the holidays. 

If you or your loved one has recently suffered from a fire, be sure to contact SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom to help you with your restoration needs. Call us 24/7 at 916-987-0400. 

Are you considering frying a turkey for Thanksgiving?  Please consider the 

Five dangers of deep frying a turkey:

1. Turkey fryers can easily tip over, spilling hot cooking oil over a large area.
2. An overfilled cooking pot will cause cooking oil to spill when the turkey is put in, and a partially frozen turkey will cause cooking oil to splatter when put in the pot.
3. Even a small amount of cooking oil spilling on a hot burner can cause a large fire.
4. Without thermostat controls, deep fryers can overheat oil to the point of starting a fire.
5. The sides of the cooking pot, lid and pot handles can get dangerously hot.

For more information visit the US Fire Administration website: https://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/outreach/cooking.html

To find out other ways SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom can help you with fire or storm damage, visit: http://www.SERVPROfairoaksfolsom.com/  

As always, call us at 916-987-0400. We are here to help. 

Halloween Fire Safety - Avoid Potential Fire Damage

10/17/2016 (Permalink)

Halloween is a fun time of year, but without precautions it can lead to house fires. The Cal Fire website offers some great tips and suggestions to keep Halloween safe and fun.

If you are faced with fire damage, call SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom at 916-987-0400 for 24/7 emergency service. 

TIPS FOR CHOOSING THE RIGHT COSTUMES:

Purchase costumes made of flame resistant or retardant material (Check the label). Fire resistant does not mean fire proof
Keep hemlines short enough to prevent tripping
Avoid loose and baggy sleeves. Stay away from billowing or long trailing fabric.
Use make-up instead of masks which can obstruct vision.
Use glow in the dark reflective tape on your costume.
TIPS FOR DECORATING:

Never use candles to light jack-o’-lanterns, use battery powered lights.
Instruct children to stay away from open flames.
Be extremely careful with cornstalks and other harvest season items. Keep them away from sources of heat.
Keep exits clear of decorations so nothing blocks escape routes

TIPS FOR HALLOWEEN NIGHT:

Children should always go trick-or-treating with a responsible adult.
If driving, be sure to watch for trick-or-treaters who are too busy to watch for you.
Provide children with flashlights or glow sticks to carry for lighting and visibility.
Do not allow children to carry sharp sticks or other objects that could cause injury to others.
Keep your yard free of tripping hazards, such as garden tools, hoses, etc.
Closely inspect all candy before allowing children to eat it. Discard any unwrapped treats from a stranger. If in doubt, throw it out.

For more details visit http://www.fire.ca.gov/communications/communications_firesafety_halloween 

Visit http://www.SERVPROfairoaksfolsom.com/fire-smoke-damage-restoration to find out how SERVPRO can help you during a fire emergency. 

Preparing for house fire.

10/4/2016 (Permalink)

The American Red Cross has gone to great lengths on their web page providing tips and suggestions on home fire prevention. 

The 7 Ways to Prepare for a Home Fire

1. Install the right number of smoke alarms. Test them once a month and replace the batteries at least once a year.

2. Teach children what smoke alarms sound like and what to do when they hear one.

3. Ensure that all household members know two ways to escape from every room of your home and know the family meeting spot outside of your home.

4. Establish a family emergency communications plan and ensure that all household members know who to contact if they cannot find one another.

5. Practice escaping from your home at least twice a year. Press the smoke alarm test button or yell “Fire“ to alert everyone that they must get out.

6. Make sure everyone knows how to call 9-1-1.

7. Teach household members to STOP, DROP and ROLL if their clothes should catch on fire.

For more details visit:

http://www.redcross.org/get-help/prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/fire/home-fire-preparedness

If your family has just suffered a home fire, please call SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom at 916-987-0400. We are here to help you 24/7.

IICRC Firm SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom - Tips for Smoke and Fire Restoration

9/30/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.

IICRC has many tips and suggestions for consumers. Please consider the following information from the IICRC regarding fire and smoke restoration:

In the wake of a fire that has covered homes with smoke and ash, it’s important to begin clean up as soon as possible in order to prevent permanent damage or discoloration from soot residue. The IICRC provides the following tips for fire victims facing clean up:

• Practice safety first. Use a dust mask (like painters use) and gloves as you work.
• Ventilate the home. Place a box fan in an open window to draw the air and dust out.
• Clean from top to bottom. Start with the ceilings, walls and fixtures, and work your way down to the contents of the room, then to the floor.
• Vacuum floors and upholstery. Make sure your vacuum cleaner has a high efficiency filter. Otherwise, you risk blowing soot back into the air.
• Some draperies, clothing and machine-washable items may be laundered. Use a mild alkaline cleaner to neutralize the acid in the soot. Fine clothing should be dry cleaned.
• Most exterior walls (brick, stone, wood, paint, siding) and eaves can be cleaned by spraying with a detergent, agitating soot with a soft-bristled brush, pressure washing from bottom to top, then rinsing from top to bottom.
• If the damage and residue are heavy, it may be best to hire a professional to thoroughly restore your home and belongings.
• Check with your insurance company to see if smoke damage from outdoor sources is covered by your policy.
• If the fire has warped or distorted the structure, consult a licensed general contractor.

Professional restoration technicians  know that damage increases and restoration costs escalate the longer neutralization, corrosion control and cleaning is delayed. When homeowners prolong the restoration of their home, they extend the effects brought on by the smoke exposure. The following is a timeline of the effects of fire and smoke on a home.

For more details, visit http://www.iicrc.org/consumers/care/fire-smoke-restoration/ 

Need a professional? Call SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom at 916-987-0400 today. We are here to help 24/7. 

National Fire Prevention Week is October 9-15, 2016

9/29/2016 (Permalink)

Some details from the NFPA.org site:

Fire Prevention Week

This year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign, “Don’t Wait – Check the Date! Replace Smoke Alarms Every 10 Years,” represents the final year of our three-year effort to educate the public about basic but essential elements of smoke alarm safety.

Why focus on smoke alarms three years in a row? Because NFPA’s survey data shows that the public has many misconceptions about smoke alarms, which may put them at increased risk in the event of a home fire. For example, only a small percentage of people know how old their smoke alarms are, or how often they need to be replaced.

As a result of those and related findings, we’re addressing smoke alarm replacement this year with a focus on these key messages:

• Smoke alarms should be replaced every 10 years.
• Make sure you know how old all the smoke alarms are in your home.
• To find out how old a smoke alarm is, look at the date of manufacture on the back of the alarm; the alarm should be replaced 10 years from that date.

For complete details:

http://www.nfpa.org/public-education/campaigns/fire-prevention-week

Orangevale, Folsom or Fair Oaks Smoke and Soot Cleanup

8/26/2016 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom.

Area Wildfires Can Scare Residents. Smoke damage? Call SERVPRO.

8/26/2016 (Permalink)

No need to worry about area wildfires. If one is near your home, be sure to call SERVPRO of Fair Oaks / Folsom to clean up the smoke damage. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Every fire damage situation is a little different and requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same. When various materials burn, the soot they create differs greatly and requires a specific cleaning procedure. The steps listed below illustrate our process for the “typical” fire damage restoration. Learn more about our fire damage restoration process.

1. Emergency Contact
2. Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment
3. Immediate Board-Up and Roof Tarp Service (if needed)
4. Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)
5. Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces
6. Cleaning and Repair
7. Restoration

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – (916) 987-0400