Recent Fire Damage Posts
Fire Damage Restoration in Sunrise
11/26/2023 (Permalink)
After a fire in your home, you need to contact SERVPRO immediately. Our certified technicians can help you get your home back to what it was.
SERVPRO® Offers Fast and Efficient Fire Damage Restoration in Sunrise
Known for its stunning skyline, Sunrise is a bustling metropolis that boasts an array of impressive local buildings, including the iconic Sunrise Civic Center. This architectural gem is a hub for community events, exhibitions, and performances, bringing people together to celebrate arts and culture. Additionally, history enthusiasts can explore historic structures such as the New River Inn and the Stranahan House, which provide a glimpse into the city's rich past. Education is highly valued in Sunrise, with esteemed institutions like Nova Southeastern University and Broward College offering diverse academic programs.
SERVPRO techs provide top-quality fire damage restoration in Sunrise to help restore your home. Using state-of-the-art equipment and techniques, SERVPRO technicians work tirelessly to remove smoke and soot residue, repair structural damage, and eliminate any lingering odors from your home.
Eliminating Odors from Fire Damaged Homes
Eliminating odors from your fire-damaged homes is a crucial step in the restoration process. Professional fire damage restoration companies, such as SERVPRO, employ advanced techniques to remove lingering smoke odors effectively. Some of the odor removal techniques we use include-
SERVPRO experts neutralize and eliminate unpleasant smells, ensuring your home is fresh and free from any reminders of the fire incident. With our expertise, homeowners can enjoy a clean and odor-free environment again.
Sunrise offers various attractions, such as the Sawgrass Mills Mall, a shopper's paradise with numerous stores and outlets. Nature lovers can enjoy the scenic beauty of the Sawgrass Sanctuary, an expansive wildlife refuge that showcases the region's diverse flora and fauna. With its blend of modernity, historical charm, educational institutions, and fascinating attractions, Sunrise is truly a city that caters to the diverse interests and passions of its residents and visitors alike.
Call SERVPRO of Plantation / Sunrise SE at (954) 280-8282 for a fast and efficient fire restoration service you can trust.
Fire Restoration in Plantation Homes Is Vital for the Future
5/21/2023 (Permalink)
Has a fire recently occurred in your home? Contact SERVPRO to access and clean up the fire damage. Our technicians are trained and here to help.
Work With SERVPRO for Fire Restoration in Plantation
I have fire damage in my home; which restoration firm can offer turnkey solutions with proven results? Avoid shoddy workmanship and code violations by hiring an insured, licensed, and bonded fire restoration team.
SERVPRO has decades of experience helping property owners recover after fire damage. We have the expertise required to perform fire restoration in your Plantation residence. Every project has unknowns and challenges, but we can prove our reputation as agile and quick problem solvers.
Over the years, SERVPRO has seen different types of fires that homes endure, including the following:
- Furnace malfunctions – Heating appliances such as oil-fired furnaces can malfunction and cause smoke to spread all over a home.
- Natural fires – Wildfires can cause bushes, trees, and shrubs to burn. When this happens, smoke enters into a building from the exterior, leaving behind smoke odors and residues.
- Complex fires – When synthetic or natural contents in a property burn, they can leave a black residue on surfaces and contents and smoke smells.
- Protein fires – When food from an oven, toaster, or oven burns, it can leave foul smells and smoke residues behind.
Every fire requires specific cleaning methods and procedures to restore a property fully. Typically, high-oxygen fires create dusty, dry soot whereas low-oxygen slow burning fires result in wet, greasy deposits that smear easily. When firefighters use water to extinguish a fire, the humidity in a building can rise to a hundred percent, causing the wood to open its pores and absorb more residue and smoke. SERVPRO’s restoration team can start the cleanup process as soon as possible to limit damage to your property.
We can remove debris, char particles, and smoke from your home’s interior and exterior. Our SERVPRO team can use HEPA vacuum cleaners to clean the walls and floors. We can also use detergents to remove smoke film from surfaces. The type of residues on a material can determine the cleaning method. For instance, we can use dry solvent cleaning agents to eliminate grease or oil-based residues.
SERVPRO of Plantation / Sunrise SE is qualified to remediate fire damage. Call us at (954) 280-8282 for repair services. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.
Use Trusted Plantation Fire Damage Restoration
3/21/2023 (Permalink)
Smoke damage and fire damage can cause significant damage to your Plantation home. Count on our SERVPRO team to make it “Like it never even happened.”
SERVPRO Helps Plantation Residents with Fire Damage Cleanup
Tragedies involving fire at homes and businesses occur every few minutes in the United States. It is no wonder that area Plantation residents worry and prepare in the event of such an emergency. Should you have a fire in your home or commercial building, rebuilding as quickly as possible gets you back on your feet. Amidst the confusion and sense of loss, damage also worsens the longer it gets addressed. SERVPRO’s fire and smoke restoration technicians (FSRT) know best practices for managing all water/moisture, soot, and charred debris left behind. We want all area business owners and residents to know they can call us 24 hours a day for emergency restoration to make it “Like it never even happened.”
SERVPRO: Because We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster
Fire emergencies happen without warning, over holidays, weekends, and at night. The great news is that SERVPRO can have a team at your door in as little as four hours or less to handle your fire damage in Plantation. We take special consideration for all kinds of residue and soot deposits present, the condition of all contents, the level of charring, and safety concerns for structural components. The efforts we put forth for restoration bring your property back to its preloss state so you can resume life without lingering reminders of the fire emergency.
What Happens During House Fire Cleanup and Controlled Demolition?
SERVPRO acts fast to develop a plan for your project, working to restore rather than replace whenever we can. We often use specialized methods, cleaning protocols, and industrial equipment to return your soiled materials and smoke-damaged items to pre-fire condition.
Many fire events mean various building materials like subflooring, flooring, drywall, panels, carpeting, and others require a complete replacement. With controlled demolition, we pinpoint areas that need restoration to salvage what we can, saving time and money. With the help of trusted area contractors and vendors, we ensure each area gets restored and finished to be “Like it never even happened.
During this process, some of the steps that may get taken include:
- Paint and sealant application
- Marble, tile, hardwood, and linoleum flooring repair
- Carpet cleaning or removal and replacement
- Drywall cleaning or removal and replacement
- HVAC cleaning followed by sealant application
- Furniture and specialty item restoration
- And more
SERVPRO Streamlines All Processes for You to be Fast and Efficient
After a fire at your Plantation property, you must request help online or call our customer care team. The initial contact is where we go over details of your property and the fire event, gathering all necessary information so we can get your project in motion. The team mobilizes and gets dispatched to your door in four hours or less.
Once we arrive and first responders give the green light to enter, the crew chief inspects the areas to assess the level of charring and integrity of structural elements and works to select the proper process and equipment to begin restoration. If necessary, we also have alternative power and staging available if the electricity is out at your property.
You can expect:
- Tarping and board-up services – We cover doors, damaged roofing, and other holes to protect the interior of your home or business from vandals, vermin, and the elements.
- Water removal services – We address all chemicals or moisture left from fire-fighting efforts, so nothing gets left behind to cause further damage.
- Contents cleaning and restoration services – We inspect items to determine salvageability, often separating everything into piles for disposal or cleaning. Some items may also get packed and inventoried for storage until we finish restoration.
With all your fire damage needs, SERVPRO of Plantation/Sunrise SE is there to ensure it gets done right the first time. Call us at (954) 280-8282 or request help online at your earliest convenience.
The Focus of Restoration for Fire Damage in Plantation
12/19/2022 (Permalink)
SERVPRO can handle everything from removing fire damaged debris to reconstruction. Call us today!
Mitigative Steps of Fire Damage Restoration
With restoration projects for residences, the earliest actions to begin recovery often impact its success and timeline. When disasters strike, we prioritize a prompt mitigative response that includes several key objectives.
Debris Removal and Cleanup
Starting the restoration of fire damage in Planation involves understanding the earliest actions needed to protect the property and its occupants from more significant harm. Mitigation of fire losses starts with removing debris on the flooring and horizontal surfaces heaped from the combustion processes. Eliminating waste, ash, and charred material remnants lessens soot concentrations and smoke odor severity.
Addressing Soot and Smoke Buildup
Deposits of smoke solids on surfaces can be a formidable obstacle for restoration professionals, so our SERVPRO team must work quickly to avoid permanent marring of the underlying substrates. The acidic properties of soot deposits make the residue corrosive and able to mar sensitive building materials, so cleanup comes in several forms, including:
- Solvents
- Alkaline Cleaners
- Media Blasting
- Controlled Demolition
Deodorization Practices
Deodorizing is also a needed action following fire losses. The combustion process creates a volatile environment for homeowners and house occupants, making it essential to focus on indoor air quality overall with HEPA air scrubbers and filtration equipment. These actions involve managing post-fire odors through ULV fogging, using hydroxyl generators, or introducing ozone.
Build-Back Services
Fire damage often comes with the need for reconstruction and repair. Commonly, combustion can have destructive effects on installed building elements, so controlled demolition and replacing these components becomes a critical part of completing fire restoration services. With a general contractor license, our SERVPRO professionals can complete needed build-back services after restoration nears completion.
With fire damage being a consistent concern for Plantation homes and businesses, it is necessary to have a team capable of handling the full recovery your property might need. Trust our SERVPRO of Plantation / Sunrise SE professionals to help and call (954) 710-8544 when disasters strike.
Improving Air Quality Amid Fire Damage Cleanup in Sunrise Homes
8/13/2022 (Permalink)
Plantation house fires can degrade IAQ. SERVPRO can wipedown and remove sooty deposits from surfaces and clean the HVAC system.
Better Air Quality During Fire Damage Recovery
There are multiple phases of fire damage recovery after a disaster. Early in mitigation and restoration, it is essential to improve air quality for safer cleanup and to make the living areas safer for house occupants not displaced by the emergency.
Creating a Safe Start for Fire Mitigation
Indoor air quality (IAQ) is one of the first considered aspects of restoring fire damage in Sunrise properties. Creating a safer environment for responding technicians is vital as volatile atmospheric conditions in the household can be hazardous. Filtration is the safest option to mitigate airborne contaminants and particulates causing an issue for the structure.
The Contaminants Possible
Understanding what threats exist in the environment ensures that SERVPRO professionals arrive with the needed tools to help. After a fire is extinguished, smoke solids and soot particles are the most prevalent air threats. These particulates can be hazardous for those exposed, mainly due to their corrosive and carcinogenic nature. Improving IAQ also protects exposed building materials where these particles might come to rest.
Tools to Improve IAQ
Improving air quality can happen in several steps and stages. One of the first objectives is to remove physical contaminants circulating throughout the property by placing HEPA 500 air scrubbers in several house areas. As air is pulled through the unit, contaminants as small as 0.3 microns are trapped in the sophisticated filtration system in these machines.
Aiding with Post-Fire Malodors
Air quality also describes lingering effects like malodors. Strong smells from combustion and burning can be a challenging post-fire condition to remove. Even with surface cleaning and debris removal, additional actions will be needed to neutralize smells entirely. Our robust inventory of deodorization equipment includes:
- ULV foggers
- Thermal foggers
- Ozone machines
- Hydroxyl generators
Fires present many obstacles for our experienced SERVPRO of Plantation / Sunrise SE professionals. Our team works to mitigate loss and rapidly protect what matters most. When fires affect your home, call us at (954) 280-8282
Safest Fire Restoration in Plantation
3/17/2021 (Permalink)
Handling a Fire Disaster? You aren't alone, we have your back.
Safest Fire Restoration in Plantation
Any disaster can take a toll on a home or business but perhaps nothing is more devastating than the effects of a fire. Fires usually strike suddenly and cause a wide range of damage, which can leave you reeling and unsure of where to turn for help. As desperate as you may feel, it’s important to know that you can turn to SERVPRO for the safest fire restoration services in the Plantation area.
As beautiful as Plantation is, it’s hard to think about something as awful as fire striking, but unfortunately it can occur at any time. For the many residents of the area to businesses like Aetna Insurance and other large and small companies that call Plantation home, it’s essential to have a professional restoration company to rely on when a fire occurs so that you know you’re in good hands.
Understanding The Full Scope of Fire Damage
Of course the immediate picture most people have of fire damage is burned and broken belongings, scorched structures and melted plastics caused by the extreme heat of flames. Sadly, in terms of fire damage that only begins to scratch the surface. There is much more to fire damage and all of it has to be taken into consideration when performing safe and thorough restoration services.
Flames bring along the added hazard of smoke and soot, both of which can permeate surfaces and cause health effects. In order to thoroughly restore fire damaged property, a careful and exacting cleaning process is required, using professional quality equipment and specialized training. Professionals will also need to assess each item to determine if it is capable of being restored or will need to be discarded.
Surprisingly, when it comes to fire damage the single most harmful factor is actually water. While water is essential for putting out fires, it can also compound the damage to homes, businesses and belongings from the fire itself and may lead to rotting of support systems as well as mold growth and infestation if it is not addressed quickly and thoroughly.
SERVPRO Addresses All Fire Damage
It’s usually impossible to avoid fire damage, which is why it is so important to make sure that the damage is addressed properly. Because fire can affect every part of a residential or commercial property, right down to the interior support structure, it is essential to move quickly and safely when handling fire damage. The sooner you begin the restoration process, the sooner you can get back on your feet again and the better your chances of reducing your expenses.
SERVPRO understands the need for speed, so we’re ready to respond to your call 24/7. We’ll have a technician on-site to perform a thorough assessment of your damage within four hours of your original call and we’ll have a customized plan of action specific to your property within eight hours when we supply a complete verbal briefing.
We’ll even provide a thorough inventory of all of your damaged surfaces and belongings to help expedite the process of filing your insurance claim. We understand how emotional this time can be for you and we’re prepared to do everything we can to make it easier on you and ultimately help you to get the reimbursement you deserve.
Of course, our goal with any property is to make it “Like it never even happened,” and we’ll always proceed with that in mind. Our technicians will put their training and expertise to use to make sure that the restoration process is handled as safely as possible in the shortest amount of time so that you can put the pain behind you and let the healing begin.
The Professional Approach To Fire Restoration
Dealing with the aftermath of a fire can be overwhelming, which is why it is so important to have professionals that you can depend on. At SERVPRO, we understand how difficult this time can be and we have the training and equipment to handle the job efficiently and safely, so you never have to go through the restoration process alone.
Our quick and thorough process begins by responding faster to any disaster. Once we have assessed your damage and drawn up your personalized comprehensive plan of action, we’ll provide you with a detailed explanation of every step that we’ll be taking in the restoration process so that you always understand exactly what’s happening. We’ll then complete pre-testing of all surfaces and items so we can determine exactly what is able to be restored and what must be discarded.
Our restoration process includes the latest techniques and high-tech state-of-the-art equipment that can handle any size job. Our Ultra Low Volume (ULV) and Thermal foggers can remove all hazardous odors from any type of surface while our industrial vacuums with HEPA filters remove all water and help to mitigate mold growth to prevent infestation.
We use industrial strength air movers and dehumidifiers to thoroughly dry all surfaces and employ specialized techniques where necessary to address any salvageable belongings. When the restoration process is finished we’ll perform a complete walkthrough of the property with you to ensure that you are completely satisfied with what we’ve done.
Because filing an insurance claim can be one of the most time consuming and emotionally trying parts of the entire restoration experience, we’ll even help you generate a comprehensive room-by-room inventory to facilitate matters. We know that the most important thing for you is to get your property back to its previous state, so we’ll do everything we can to help you get back on your feet as soon as possible.
Don’t Go It Alone
Unfortunately, even a place as beautiful as the Plantation area is not immune to the devastation caused by fire. SERVPRO is a part of the Plantation community and we understand that devastation all too well, which is why we’re prepared to respond quickly when you need us most. There is no reason why you should have to face the emotional journey through the repair and restoration process alone when there are trained professionals that you can count on.
When fire strikes your home or business, your first response should be to call the professionals at SERVPRO. We’ve got the training and equipment necessary to handle any level of fire damage and we’ll treat every property with the utmost care, just as if it were our own.
At SERVPRO we make it our business to respond faster to any disaster and to handle every fire restoration job with the utmost safety. That’s the professional difference and that’s the experience you’ll get when you call SERVPRO. With our state-of-the-art equipment and certified training you’ll know you’ve got the best in restoration by your side.
About the Author
Tyrone Po
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We understand the challenges that can happen 1st hand (I have experienced them myself) and how we can help you get things back to normal.
Affiliations: We are affiliated with Professional Golfers' Association of America, American Red Cross, Better Business Bureau, BOMA, Community Association Institute, Ft Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce, Independent Agents of Broward County, Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification, Lauderdale by the Sea Chamber of Commerce, Leadership Broward, Plantation Chamber of Commerce, South Florida Claims Association, Wilton Manors Business Association
Certifications: AMRT - Applied Microbial Remediation Technician, ASD -Applied Structural Drying Technician, CCT - Carpet Cleaning Technician, ECTP -Employee Certification Training Program, FSRT -Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician, UFT - Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning Technician, OSHA - 10-hour General and/or Construction Industry Training Program, HST -Health and safety Technician, OCT - Odor Control Technician, RRRP -Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation, WRT -Water Damage Restoration Technician, IICRC -Certified Firm
Awards: Better Business Bureau - A Rated, Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce Small Business Award Recipient
Check out our previous blog!
How Do You Remove Soot in Plantation FL?
How Do You Remove Soot in Plantation FL?
1/4/2021 (Permalink)
Soot, Smoke and Fire Damage Is No Match For SERVPRO of Ft Lauderdale N
Soot is one of the most dangerous of all hazards that you can face in the aftermath of a fire
Because it can contain any number of toxins, breathing in even the smallest amount of soot can cause serious health issues.
It can build up on all sorts of surfaces and create noxious odors, which can make it a challenge to clean.
Removing soot is a delicate process that requires proper safety precautions, specialized equipment and professional training
That’s why it’s recommended that you leave this job to the professionals at SERVPRO of Plantation.
The longer soot is allowed to remain on a surface the more dangerous it is, so it needs to be addressed as quickly as possible.
It’s also important to ensure that it is cleaned properly so that it doesn’t make the damage any worse.
At SERVPRO we have specialized equipment, including industrial vacuums with HEPA filters that can remove soot particles from the air and from various surfaces, as well as air scrubbers to trap any soot particles released into the air by vacuuming.
We can then clean walls, carpets, floors, furniture and other items using the proper products to ensure that the soot is removed without damaging the item or surface itself.
We understand how devastating a fire can be and we’re prepared to respond immediately, 24 hours a day, to help you begin the cleanup process as quickly as possible so that you can put the trauma behind you for good.
Plantation Davie Fire Escape Plan 101
12/10/2020 (Permalink)
Plantation Davie Fire Escape Plan Brochure
The Importance of a Fire Escape Plan
Whenever a disaster strikes, it’s important to have an escape route and follow up communication to ensure that everyone is safe. Whether it be for your Plantation family home or your Davie place of employment, a fire can be a terrible thing. Many people underestimate the rapid growth and intensity of a fire as well as the dangers associated with it. From the intense heat that can make you disoriented to the thick black smoke that you would have trouble seeing or breathing through, a fire is no joke. Your family or business should have a fire escape route that everyone knows of and has practiced getting to.
Are you ready? Many would love to think, yes. But unfortunately, on average seven people died in U.S home fires per day based on an NFPA report. A well thought out plan is very important.
What Makes a Good Fire Escape Plan
A good fire escape plan should include a fire escape route that is mapped out and that includes a layout of your home or business. Next steps should be listed so those who are out of immediate danger do what they can to help those who may still be in danger.
Fire Escape Tools that should be up to date
Smoke alarms are extremely useful to getting everyone out when a fire occurs. As a preliminary warning, these devices can safe people who would otherwise have waited to late to take action.
Reach out to emergency services
Once you are safe, its highly important to take a head count and to make sure the proper authorities are contacted so that firefighters can arrive on scene. Ambulances should also be on scene just in case anyone got hurt or isn’t in good condition and need to be checked out.
After the Fire
Reach out to trained professionals to take next step actions in order to save what can be save within your home. Even this part can be dangerous and not something for you to try to do on your own. With our experienced team of technicians that have been certified in fire and smoke restoration by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), we have the expertise to handle all facets of fire damage. In addition, we will be the caring experts by your side to help guide you through the crisis.
You've got the support, always here to help.
We've supported hundreds of Plantation families and Davie businesses like yours before. You are not alone. Whether reactive or preventative, our team can jump into action to make sure things are a success.
Don't let it get worse before it gets better.
Give us a call at (954) 280-8282 or visit our website at http://www.SERVPROplantation.com/
Follow us on Social media for exclusive tips and tricks to keep your home safe to the dangers of mold, fires, water damage and more: SERVPRO of Plantation
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SERVPROPlantation/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/SERVPRO_plantation/
Pet Safety and Fire Damage Prevention in Plantation
12/10/2020 (Permalink)
Smoke damage and fire damage can destroy lives, please protect your Plantation home.
Fire damage in Plantation can harm animals just as it can harm people. At SERVPRO® of Plantation, we love our pets as much as you love yours. We could not stand to see them injured or killed in a house fire.
SERVPRO of Plantation shares these pet safety ideas with you:
- When you design your fire escape plan, practice with your pets
- If there are fires outside, bring pets inside. If you have to evacuate, you will be ready to bring the pets with you
- Know where your pets hide. You may not have time to hunt for them in an emergency
- Animal-rescue groups and other organizations have pet stickers that you can put on your windows and doors. The stickers tell firefighters how many pets you have, and what kinds
- Prepare evacuation kits for the pets. These kits can be large plastic bins. Put in copies of their vet records, extra leashes and collars, toys, and food
SERVPRO of Plantation reminds you to call the fire department once you are safely outside the Plantation home. Smoke damage and fire damage can destroy lives. Since this week is Fire Prevention Week, please check out these additional safety tips from our friends at the National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA).
SERVPRO® of Plantation is independently owned and operated.
Links:
https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/Campaigns/TakeAction/Household-pets
https://www.nfpa.org/-/media/Files/Public-Education/Campaigns/TakeAction/TakeActionPetsChecklist.pdf
Fire Evacuation Plan: Florida How to by SERVPRO
12/10/2020 (Permalink)
Fire escape plans are very important!!
Fire Evacuation is important for residents all the way south of Pembroke Pines to north of Las Olas and beyond
A Fire Evacuation is last thing most of us expect in our own home. An extreme event like a house fire seems unlikely, but the truth can be terrifying. We see disasters like this on TV, or hear of them but don't ever really think they can happen to us. In fact, things like this happen more often than not. There were 365,500 house fires in 2015 alone!
Prevention is key for a Fire Evacuation Plan
Keep up to date fire extinguishers and smoke detectors. Recommended by the National Fire Protection Association, you should have one in each room people sleep as well as outside on and in every level of the house.
If a fire happens, these few moments can change the outcome of the entire situation. The important part is that your family escapes safely.
Tips if a fire occurs:
- Plan for everyone and involve them in the process. Plan with elderly and even children in consideration so they can keep up with and follow the guidelines. Children remember to react more often when they were involved in the process in the first place.
- Find multiple ways out. Go to each room of your house and find any exits, including windows and doors. Make sure they all open easily. You could even install emergency opening devices on any openings to help get through more easily.
- Choose a meeting spot. Organize a place to meet once out of danger for example a neighbor’s home, or in outside and away from danger near a mailbox or sign. You would need to figure out a public meeting spot where emergency responders can notice you when you arrive at the scene. Everyone involved has to agree and understand that they cannot go back inside to grab any personal items. Your life is worth more than what can be restored.
- Set a backup plan. If you are stuck and cannot get out, the best plan of action is to close all doors between you and the immediate fire. You can prevent the fire for getting in the room you are in temporarily by putting a towel in between the bottom crack of the door. Now call the fire department to let them know about the danger.
- Practice regularly. Practice and review the plan often.
With a smart and well organized plan in place, you can be one step ahead of the disaster and save yourself and those you love.
Safety should be your main priority when considering a Fire Evacuation Plan
After the fire passes, authorities come and the scene is cleared, call a professional restoration company like SERVPRO to support you in your time of need.
If you are in the Dania Beach area, check out this website for events and attractions.
Give us a call at (954) 280-8282 or visit our website at http://www.SERVPROplantation.com/
Follow us on Social media for exclusive tips and tricks to keep your home safe to the dangers of mold, fires, water damage and more: SERVPRO Plantation
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Fire Damage from Arson in Plantation
1/1/2020 (Permalink)
While many fires are accidental, or just a natural disaster, some fires can be avoided.
SERVPRO of Plantation wants you to be aware of the causes of fire damage and fire injuries so that you can help prevent them.
Top Causes of Fires in Plantation:
- Arson & intentional fires. An “intentional fire” is one that is not set to cause harm, but it gets out of control. Arson is a fire that is set to cause harm. Most of the time, arson and intentional fires are set outside. Deaths, injuries, and fire damage usually happen indoors
- Candles. SERVPRO of Plantation has more information here.
- Cooking. Kitchen fires are the leading cause of home fire injuries and home fire damage
- Electrical. Use all electrical equipment according to the directions
- Heating. Heating equipment is the second most common cause of death in home fires
- December, January, and February are the months that have the most home heating fires
- Smoking. Cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and other smoking materials are the biggest cause of fire deaths in the U.S. Think of preventing tragedy when explaining why to quit smoking
- Children. Children should never be left alone with matches, lighters, candles, or other dangerous materials. Children playing with fire cause hundreds of deaths and injuries every year
Please pay attention to fire safety. While we can help restore your Plantation home or office, prevention and family safety should always come first. Share this blog with a friend who might want to learn more about fire prevention.
SERVPRO of Plantation is independently owned and operated.
Links:
https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/By-topic/Top-causes-of-fire
Tips to Prevent Kitchen Fire in Plantation
12/12/2019 (Permalink)
Plantation home fires caused from cooking.
SERVPRO of Plantation understands that cooking equipment is a leading cause of fire damage and fire injuries in your Plantation home.
To help prevent fire damage, SERVPRO of Plantation shares these tips. They make more sense than not cooking at home.
- Many kitchen items can catch fire, including: dish towels, oven mitts, recipes, wooden tools, and loose clothing
- Never operate the stove or oven when you are tired or have been drinking alcohol
- If you are frying, broiling, grilling, or boiling food, stay in the kitchen. If you leave, even for a short time, turn off the heat
- Keep flammable items at least three feet from the stove top
- Do not allow children within two to four feet of the stove or oven
- If you must leave the house while cooking of any kind, turn off the heat sources
Remember that fire is fast. If you cannot contain a fire immediately, leave and bring everyone with you. Call 9-1-1 from outside your City or County home.
SERVPRO of Plantation reminds you that fire prevention is the best strategy against fire damage.
SERVPRO of Plantation is independently owned and operated.
Links:
https://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/
Safety Tips when using Candles in Plantation
12/12/2019 (Permalink)
Holiday fire dangers.
Although fires from candles happen more often around the holidays, many people use candles all year round. SERVPRO® of Plantation wants you to be safe from fire and smoke damage. It is important to be careful any time you have an open flame in your Plantation home.
Fire Prevention is the best way to fight against fire damage or injuries.
SERVPRO of Plantation offers these Tips for Fire Prevention from Candles:
- Do not let children near candles
- Keep trees and other plants away from candles
- Make sure candles are not near window curtains or blinds that could catch fire
- Keep lit candles in safe candle holders
- Do not leave children alone in a room with lit candles
- Do not light candles in the bedroom. You might fall asleep. One third of all candle fires start in the bedroom.
- If the power goes out, use flashlights instead of candles
- If someone in the home uses oxygen, do not use candles
- Fire damage from candles happens 35 times a day in the U.S.
- Keep candles at least 12 inches away from anything that can catch fire
- Put out candles when leaving the room or going to bed
A little caution goes a long way to protect you and your loved ones. If you have to deal with damage caused by smoke or fire from a candle in your Plantation home, your friends at SERVPRO of Plantation are just a phone call away.
SERVPRO of Plantation is independently owned and operated.
Links:
https://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/
https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/By-topic/Top-causes-of-fire/Candles
https://www.nfpa.org/~/media/files/public-education/resources/safety-tip-sheets/religious_candles_safety_tips.pdf
Tips to Put Out Fires in the Kitchen Safely in Sunrise
10/16/2019 (Permalink)
Please keep Sunrise safe from fire damage and practice safety in the kitchen.
SERVPRO of Plantation knows that many home fires start in the kitchen. Some kitchen fires are small enough that you may be able to put them out with a fire extinguisher. By being proactive, you can save yourself and others from fire and smoke injuries in your Sunrise home.
Remember that fire is fast. If you cannot contain a fire immediately in your Sunrise home, leave and bring everyone with you. Call 9-1-1 from outside the home.
SERVPRO of Plantation offers these tips for handling a small cooking fire:
- If the fire is on the stove top or in a pot, put a lid on the fire to smother the flames. Turn off the burner
- If a cloth on the stove top is on fire, put a lid on the fire to smother the flames. Turn off any burners
- Do not use water on a gas fire or a grease fire. Pot lids will smother a fire. You can also use (a lot of) baking soda. Pour a box of baking soda on the fire
- If the fire is in the oven, turn off the heat. Close the oven door.
IMPORTANT:
Never leave firefighting to chance. SERVPRO of Plantation knows that objects can be replaced. People and pets cannot.
SERVPRO of Plantation is independently owned and operated.
Links:
https://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/
https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/By-topic/Top-causes-of-fire
Preventing Fireworks Fires for the New Year
12/28/2018 (Permalink)
Preventing Fireworks Fires for the New Year
Here are some general tips to prevent injury or fire damage during the New Year fireworks fun.
- Fireworks most likely to cause fires are not large displays that go high in the air but the smaller items that go up less than ten feet. Larger cake style displays go high enough in the air for any sparks to extinguish long before they could hit the ground but smaller items geared towards kids that spin and shoot sparks close to the ground need to be handled with caution.
- The best place to stage your show is away from tall, dry grasses or trees on a level, cement surface. If you have to light your display on grass or gravel we recommend using a piece of plywood to create a level surface.
- Wet the ground in and around the area where you will be setting off your display and always have a fire extinguisher or hose and adequate water supply on hand.
- NEVER take fireworks to national forests or park areas! Even in wet years, fireworks are never legal or appropriate in these areas.
- NEVER put spent fireworks or "duds" in a fire. Soak spent fireworks with water and dispose of them only when completely cooled.
- Don't attempt to pick up or relight "duds". Wait 15 to 20 minutes and then soak in a bucket of water before disposal. Buying from a reputable distributor will minimize your chance of purchasing "duds".
- Alcohol and fireworks do not mix. Have a designated sober shooter. There is no substitute for good judgment.
Give us a call at (954) 280-8282 or visit our website at http://www.SERVPROplantation.com/
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Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SERVPROPlantation/
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Prevent Fire Damage 2018 New Years Resolution! Plantation & Ft. Lauderdale
12/11/2018 (Permalink)
New Years Resolution: Prevent Fire Damage
New Years' resolutions are a staple of many Americans' holiday seasons when decisions are made to fundamentally change the lives of those making them for the better. While we often struggle to maintain and meet up to our expectations, these resolutions can be very beneficial if we really followed them... Of course some more than others (Like to prevent fire damage).
Happens to Everyone...
Have you ever caught yourself almost causing a fire? Leaving the stove running, or forgetting a pot of cooking food on the stove? Maybe over microwaving something or accidentally forgetting to blow out a candle? It happens to everyone, but for some, these small instances turn into major life changing fires..
Let's make a new years resolution to prevent fire damage chances in all of those little moments, so we don't have experience one of those BIG moments!
Being Careful With Flame
Open flames of all sizes can directly lead to significant fire damage in your home. Anything in your home that produces an open flame could represent an enormous fire hazard. In general, we recommend keeping the use of these devices to a minimum, but instead of giving up your habits entirely, consider making them more safe and well-contained. Never let candles and kitchen appliances run without your presence in the room. Little changes like these can make a big difference in the future.
Cleaning Up Around The Home
Keeping your home neat and clean not only makes it look better and more livable but also reduces your risk of fire damage. Many fires start because of excess dirt and clutter in a home, and can easily be averted with a reduction to these factors.
Perform Monthly Maintenance
Every month or two, inspect essential safety devices such as smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and any relevant escape routes to make sure they are ready and able to react to disaster. Just thirty minutes per year could avert a disaster that might otherwise cost thousands to clean up.
Learn how we handle these fixes once it happens by clicking here!
Give us a call at (954) 280-8282 or visit our website at http://www.SERVPROplantation.com/
Follow us on Social media: SERVPRO Plantation
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SERVPROPlantation/
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Handling a Fire Loss in Sunny South Florida: Pembroke Pines and Weston
12/10/2018 (Permalink)
Emergency services make it possible for a family to handle a fire loss and get the house back into working order in just a couple days instead of weeks or months depending on the damage.
Handling a fire loss things have to move as quickly as possible, and you need to have someone you can trust to handle the job. Smoke damage, soot damage and air quality need to be checked and restored to normal, so the best thing that can be done is to have someone come inspect and get a plan going of the next immediate steps.
The preparation for something like this is much more robust with a focus on not leaving lingering problems that could make a family sick or unhealthy in the future. Locations are much easier to care for when a local company is on the scene, so reach out to SERVPRO Plantation as we offer services to handle a fire loss in many cities for example: Pembroke Pines, Hialeah, Deerfield Beach or even Dania Beach!
Handling a Fire Loss - leave it to the Pros! Call SERVPRO
The work may be complex, and it must be scheduled for several days or weeks to ensure completion, but the specific type of work has complexities here and there that you're going to want the pro's to handle rather than handling it yourself. The safety or staying in the building and the air quality will begin to improve when the building has been cleaned, and there will be regular tests until we are pleased with the results. To learn about some of our tools and methods, check out our other blog here!
Give us a call at (954) 280-8282 or visit our website at http://www.SERVPROplantation.com/
Follow us on Social media: SERVPRO Plantation
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SERVPROPlantation/
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Campfire Safety: Staying Safe this Season 2018
10/3/2018 (Permalink)
Let's Warm Up - But Not Too Warm!
Halloween candy is flooding into the stores, pumpkin spiced everything is approaching, and in South Florida, campfire season is upon us! In the colder months when people have fun around outdoor fires with friends and loved ones, campfire safety is the most important to ensure everyone has a good time and stays out of harm's way.
Simple campfire safety-
Teach both your children and pets that fire is dangerous and not to be played around. Always keep an eye on little ones and four-legged friends to be sure they don't get careless and end up hurt. If you feel you need a little extra protection you can
- tie up or anchor pets at a safe distance
- put a mesh lid on the pit
- set up a baby gate around the fire
If you plan on having a fire on your own property, consider investing in a good quality fire pit. Most pits come with a stand and a protective mesh top and are made out of non-toxic metal with no dyes or finishes. Having a self-contained pit (like the one pictured) will help assure the safety of everyone around, as well as protecting your property.
What NOT to burn-
As satisfying as it might be to throw your greasy burger plate on the fire and watch it burst and sizzle, resist the urge to put anything in the fire besides firewood. Styrofoam and plastic can create toxic smoke, and paper products cause large amounts of hot ash and smoke to billow around the pit area.
Some plants that grow here, like mango trees and black olive can be toxic if burned. Try staying away from burning plants found on your property, as the smoke of toxic plants not only burn the eyes and throat, but poison any food prepared over the fire.
More than anything, campfires are meant to be a fun, warm gathering place for friends and family as the nights grow colder. We wish everyone a safe, fun season.
Give us a call at (954) 280-8282 or visit our website at http://www.SERVPROplantation.com/
Follow us on Social media: SERVPRO Plantation
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SERVPROPlantation/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/SERVPRO_plantation/
Fire Restoration using Ozone Generators
10/3/2018 (Permalink)
Disclaimer!
We at SERVPRO Plantation use machines known as ozone generators to produce the gas. Remember to not use any ozone generators on your own and call in only qualified professionals like our team at SERVPRO Plantation to deal with smoke odors.
(954) 280-8282 or visit our website at http://www.SERVPROplantation.com/
How it Works:
The machine uses a high voltage corona mechanism to emulate the same conditions that would allow ozone to form in nature (such as lightning). Regular oxygen from the air goes in, ozone comes out and can then be directed wherever it is needed.
Ozone is triatomic oxygen or enriched oxygen. Rather than having two atoms like in the oxygen we breathe, ozone has three bonded oxygen atoms. It is a strong oxidizing agent as well as a sterilizing agent most commonly used in fire restoration to eliminate smoke odors.
Some examples of what can be deodorized with ozone are odors associated with:
- cooking
- decay
- biohazards
- fire
- tobacco
However, ozone is less effective on inorganic odors (meaning odors not derived from living matter) such as:
- chlorides
- sulfates
- nitrates
- ammonia
- phosphates
The reason for this is because the third oxygen molecule bonds with the organic odor compound and oxidizes it. The ozone then turns into regular oxygen and eliminates the smell by breaking it down at a vastly accelerated rate compared to standard oxygen. Oxygen molecules have trouble bonding with and oxidizing inorganic compounds, making it less effective on them.
There are very little drawbacks to using ozone generators in fire restoration jobs, if used correctly and as mandated by OSHA. Ozone is converted back to oxygen in a matter of minutes, so rooms or buildings only need to be evacuated for a short period of time.
Give us a call at (954) 280-8282 or visit our website at http://www.SERVPROplantation.com/
Follow us on Social media: SERVPRO Plantation
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SERVPROPlantation/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/SERVPRO_plantation/
2018 Dos and Do Nots: Fire Damage
10/3/2018 (Permalink)
Fire damage dos:
- For water and fire damage restoration, DO call SERVPRO of Plantation!
- Limit the amount of movement through the affected area to prevent the spread of soot and other particles which may cause additional damages. If the affected area is too large to avoid, evacuate while repairs are being done.
- Placing large clean rags, or old linens on rugs and upholstery in your home can also help prevent the spread of soot.
- Coating chrome fixtures like your faucets, or other parts of appliances with petroleum jelly.
- If there is water in your home and on your floors, protect your furniture by putting a barrier like foil or wooden blocks where the furniture touches the floor.
Fire damage do nots:
- Do not try to clean or shampoo any carpets, rugs, or upholstery. Trying to clean up fire damage yourself is extremely hazardous to your personal health. Always call a professional.
- Do not wash any walls or other painted surfaces yourself- improper cleaning can stain the walls.
- Do not clean any electrical equipment as this is dangerous, have a professional look at it, or replace it.
- Do not send clothes to a dry cleaner as improper cleaning can set smoke odors and stains.
After a fire takes place, there's a million things on your mind. Hopefully you had a plan in place to protect your loved ones and important property. To help protect your home and belongings from further damage, here are a few tips for what you should and should not do after fire damage takes place.
Give us a call at (954) 280-8282 or visit our website at http://www.SERVPROplantation.com/
Follow us on Social media: SERVPRO Plantation
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SERVPROPlantation/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/SERVPRO_plantation/
New Year's Safety 2018
12/28/2017 (Permalink)
Countdown to the new year! And with that, drinking, partying, and celebrating. We all enjoy bonfires, sparklers, and fireworks to start off the new year with a bang! Fire and fireworks can be fun, but they can also be dangerous if used carelessly. in fact, fireworks alone were responsible for some 11,000 injuries in 2016 alone. So, let one of your resolutions this year be New Year's safety with these firework safety tips.
New Year's Safety: before lighting fireworks:
- Make sure there are no overhead obstructions such as trees.
- Stay away from dry grass or other flammable materials.
- Know the law in your area for fireworks.
- Never allow fire from a match, cigar/cigarette, or other fireworks to get anywhere near where you are storing the rest of the fireworks.
- Keep a bucket of water or hose withing reach.
New Year's Safety: while lighting fireworks:
- Wear safety glasses, and make sure young children have ear protection when lighting larger fireworks.
- Only give age-appropriate fireworks to children (such as sparklers) and only under direct supervision.
- Keep pets safely indoors. Fireworks tend to spook animals and they can get hurt!
- Never try to light damaged fireworks- wet them down and throw them out.
- Never let someone under the influence light fireworks!
New Year's Safety: after lighting fireworks:
- After the fireworks burn out, wet them down as you go. Wet them down again before throwing out.
- Any "duds" should be thoroughly wet when they don't go off.
- Pick up debris from any sparklers, bottle rockets, etc.
- Store any unused fireworks in a cool, dry place away from all potential fire starters or fire hazards.
For more information on firework safety, click here. And for all of your fire and water damage needs, call SERVPRO of Plantation for 24/7 emergency service every day of the year.
Holiday Fire Safety Tips 2017
12/5/2017 (Permalink)
Make sure your decorations are flame-retardant this holiday season.
During this time of year, we cannot stress enough how important fire safety is. Almost every wintertime holiday celebration involves candles, bonfires, or other potential fire hazards. In 2016 alone, 3,390 civilians died in fire-related incidents- the majority of which occur around the holidays. Stay safe this holiday season by following these holiday fire safety tips:
- Keep decorations away from space-heaters, stoves, and other heat sources in your home.
- If you have a tree, make sure it has enough water every day to reduce the risk of it catching.
- Check all string light decorations before you put them up, and then check again every day to be sure no pets or pests have chewed through the wires.
- Don't overload an outlet by trying to have too many things plugged in and running at once.
- Never use a turkey fryer, meat smoker, or grill (gas or charcoal) in or near a structure such as your garage, shed, or workshop.
Of course, every home should have working smoke alarms in every room, as well as a fire extinguisher in the kitchen or garage. All adults in the home should learn how to properly use a fire extinguisher, and what types of fires they can be used on. For more information on holiday fire safety, visit our friends at the American Red Cross here.
We here at SERVPRO of Plantation hope you won't be in need of our emergency services over the holidays, but if you do, we are ready 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to help with your emergency water and fire cleanup needs.
Your Fire Safety Plan and You
11/30/2017 (Permalink)
Know your building's fire escape routes!
Home fires have been in a steady decline for the last 30 years, but they still account for over 2,000 deaths and 10,000 injuries every year. Unfortunately, some disasters you can't predict, but there are a few steps you can take to ensure your safety in the event of a fire in your home. The most important step you can take is having a fire safety plan. Here are some key tips to keep in mind.
Before a fire:
- Ensure your home has a smoke alarm in every room, and test them every month to make sure they are working. If they don't work, change the batteries, or upgrade.
- Draw out a floor plan and map out at least two possible escape routes from each room. Take into consideration the needs of small children, pets, or people in your home with mobility issues while making an escape plan. Go through your plan with everyone in your home twice a year to make sure it'll work (windows open, etc.).
- If you live in a condo or apartment, ask your landlord what the best course of action is in the event of a fire.
During a fire:
- Touch the body of a door (do not touch the doorknob!) before opening to check for heat. If the door is hot to the touch, do not open it and find another way out.
- As you move through doors, close them behind you to hinder the spread of the fire.
- In the presence of smoke, stay low to the ground because smoke rises.
- A wet towel or blanket put over your head and face can help prevent injury from flames or smoke inhalation.
After a fire:
- Once you have made it safely away from the fire, call for emergency help.
- Do a headcount of everyone that made it out. If someone is missing do not go back for them, tell the fire department so they can rescue them. They are prepared to battle a blaze- you aren't.
- After a fire, if the structure of the building is still in tact, call SERVPRO of Plantation 24/7 for emergency service 365 days a year.
For more information on building a fire safety plan, visit the National Fire Protection Association. We here at SERVPRO of Plantation hope you'll never be in a fire situation, but if you are, you won't regret having a solid plan in place. Our teams are always ready to help and make it "Like it never even happened."
Bonfire Safety: Keeping Your Family Safe This Season
10/3/2017 (Permalink)
Set up seating at a safe distance from your pit.
Halloween candy is flooding into the stores, pumping spiced everything is approaching, and in South Florida, bonfire season is upon us! In the colder months when people have fun around outdoor fires with friends and loved ones, bonfire safety is the most important to ensure everyone has a good time and stays out of harm's way.
Basic bonfire safety-
Teach both your children and pets that fire is dangerous and not to be played around. Always keep an eye on little ones and four-legged friends to be sure they don't get careless and end up hurt. If you feel you need a little extra protection you can
- put a mesh lid on the pit
- set up a baby gate around the fire
- tie up or anchor pets at a safe distance
If you plan on having a fire on your own property, consider investing in a good quality fire pit. Most pits come with a stand and a protective mesh top and are made out of non-toxic metal with no dyes or finishes. Having a self-contained pit (like the one pictured) will help assure the safety of everyone around, as well as protecting your property.
What to burn-
As satisfying as it might be to throw your greasy burger plate on the fire and watch it burst and sizzle, resist the urge to put anything in the fire besides firewood. Styrofoam and plastic can create toxic smoke, and paper products cause large amounts of hot ash and smoke to billow around the pit area.
Some plants that grow here, like mango trees and black olive can be toxic if burned. Try staying away from burning plants found on your property, as the smoke of toxic plants not only burn the eyes and throat, but poison any food prepared over the fire.
More than anything, bonfires are meant to be a fun, warm gathering place for friends and family as the nights grow colder. SERVPRO Plantation wishes everyone a safe, fun season.
Ozone Generators and Fire Restoration
10/3/2017 (Permalink)
Here is a simplified graphic of how ozone generators work.
Ozone is triatomic oxygen or enriched oxygen. Rather than having two atoms like in the oxygen we breathe, ozone has three bonded oxygen atoms. It is a strong oxidizing agent as well as a sterilizing agent most commonly used in fire restoration to eliminate smoke odors. We at SERVPRO Plantation use machines known as ozone generators to produce the gas.
The machine uses a high voltage corona mechanism to emulate the same conditions that would allow ozone to form in nature (such as lightning). Regular oxygen from the air goes in, ozone comes out and can then be directed wherever it is needed.
Some examples of what can be deodorized with ozone are odors associated with:
- fire
- tobacco
- cooking
- decay
- biohazards
However, ozone is less effective on inorganic odors (meaning odors not derived from living matter) such as:
- ammonia
- phosphates
- chlorides
- sulfates
- nitrates
The reason for this is because the third oxygen molecule bonds with the organic odor compound and oxidizes it. The ozone then turns into regular oxygen and eliminates the smell by breaking it down at a vastly accelerated rate compared to standard oxygen. Oxygen molecules have trouble bonding with and oxidizing inorganic compounds, making it less effective on them.
There are very little drawbacks to using ozone generators in fire restoration jobs, if used correctly and as mandated by OSHA. Ozone is converted back to oxygen in a matter of minutes, so rooms or buildings only need to be evacuated for a short period of time.
Remember to not use any ozone generators on your own and call in only qualified professionals like our team at SERVPRO Plantation to deal with smoke odors.
Fire Damage: Dos and Do Nots
10/3/2017 (Permalink)
For water and fire damage cleanup and restoration, call SERVPRO!
After a fire takes place, there's a million things on your mind. Hopefully you had a plan in place to protect your loved ones and important property. To help protect your home and belongings from further damage, here are a few tips for what you should and should not do after fire damage takes place.
Fire damage dos:
- Limit the amount of movement through the affected area to prevent the spread of soot and other particles which may cause additional damages. If the affected area is too large to avoid, evacuate while repairs are being done.
- Placing large clean rags, or old linens on rugs and upholstery in your home can also help prevent the spread of soot.
- Coating chrome fixtures like your faucets, or other parts of appliances with petroleum jelly.
- If there is water in your home and on your floors, protect your furniture by putting a barrier like foil or wooden blocks where the furniture touches the floor.
Fire damage do nots:
- Do not wash any walls or other painted surfaces yourself- improper cleaning can stain the walls.
- Do not try to clean or shampoo any carpets, rugs, or upholstery. Trying to clean up fire damage yourself is extremely hazardous to your personal health. Always call a professional.
- Do not clean any electrical equipment as this is dangerous, have a professional look at it, or replace it.
- Do not send clothes to a dry cleaner as improper cleaning can set smoke odors and stains.
For more information on our fire damage restoration services, visit our page or give us a call. With 24-hour emergency service, SERVPRO Plantation will arrive faster to your disaster, and make it "like it never even happened."
9 Holiday Fire Safety Tips From the American Red Cross
12/6/2016 (Permalink)
Using candles safely is one of the Red Cross' holiday fire safety tips.
Holiday Fire Safety Tips
The holidays are a time for decoration, celebration and family. But with our secor and festivities comes a creater risk of fire. Candles, festive lights, decor and large scale cooking all come with the season, but can lead to some dangerous scenarios. In fact, The American Red reports that nearly 47,000 fires occur during the winter holidays claiming more than 500 lives, causing more than 2,200 injuries, and costing $554 million in property damage! Listed below are some holiday fire safety tips to make your holiday season safe and wonderful.
Preparedness Tips
- Place Christmas trees, candles, and other holiday decorations at least three feet away from heat sources like fireplaces, portable heaters, radiators, heat vents and candles.
- Purchase flame retardant metallic or artificial trees. If you purchase a real tree, make sure that it has fresh, green needles that aren’t easily broken. Keep live trees as moist as possible by giving them plenty of water.
- Make sure that light strings and other holiday decorations are in good condition. Do not use anything with frayed electrical cords and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Always unplug tree and holiday lights before leaving home or going to bed. 9 Never use lit candles to decorate a tree. Always extinguish candles before leaving the room or going to bed.
- Use only sturdy tree stands designed not to tip over. Keep curious pets and children away from Christmas trees.
- Keep anything that can catch on fire—pot holders, oven mitts, wooden utensils, paper or plastic bags, food packaging, and towels or curtains—away from your stove top.
- Designate one person to walk around your home to make sure that all candles and smoking materials are properly extinguished after guests leave.
- Smoke alarms save lives. Install a smoke alarm near your kitchen, on each level of your home, near sleeping areas, and inside and outside bedrooms if you sleep with doors closed. Use the test button to check it each month. Replace all batteries at least once a year.
Source: http://www.redcross.org/images/MEDIA_CustomProductCatalog/m4340080_FireHolidayFactSheet.pdf
After the blaze: How to Protect Your Property From Damage AFTER a Fire
11/15/2016 (Permalink)
The first 48 hours after a fire are the most critical to avoiding additional damage.
A fire is a truly destructive force of nature. With all the devastation a fire can cause while burning, it's easy to forget that your home or business may still be in danger after the fire is extinguished.
The first 48 hours after a fire are the most critical to protecting your property from any residual dangers, and can often make the difference between restoration or full on replacement of your valuables. The first step is to contact a professional restoration service, like SERVPRO of Plantation. However, there are other steps you can take to protect your home or business, such as:
- Limiting the amount of movement through the affected area to prevent the spread of soot particles which may cause additional damage
- Placing clean towels or used linens on rugs and high traffic areas and upholstery
- Coating chrome fixtures, such as faucets, trim and appliances with petroleum jelly or oil
- Placing aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpet
- Not washing any walls or painted surfaces
- Not shampooing any carpet or upholstery
- Not cleaning any electrical equipment
- Not sending clothing to a dry cleaner (improper cleaning can set smoke odor)
At SERVPRO of Plantation, we understand the need to get your life back to normal after a disaster, but before you risk doing further damage by attempting to clean up the damage yourself, call the fire damage restoration and cleanup experts at SERVPRO of Plantation to make it “Like it never even happened.”
Post Flame Recovery
7/26/2016 (Permalink)
Fires cause unnecessary havoc in people’s lives. Half the battle is getting rid of the flames. After the flames are gone, there is a lot more to be done and that’s where we come in. Your home definitely suffered smoke and fire damage as well as possible water damage and the professionals at SERVPRO have the skills and equipment necessary to restore your house to the way it was before the fire. We follow these steps to make sure your home is back to the way it was before the fire. For an easy and hassle-free experience, trust SERVPRO to help manage everything for you, including the insurance claims process.
Breathing Concerns After a Fire
7/11/2016 (Permalink)
Soot is potentially very dangerous and can cause severe respiratory issues. Never enter a home without facemasks or other forms of respiratory filters, since breathing in soot can be very hazardous. If it has been some time since the fire, you may also be at risk of breathing mold spores or other biological matter. If it is not within 24 hours after the fire, mold, spores, and other potentially deadly contagions may be present, so you should hire a professional to help you clean up the areas with house fire damage. Even though smoke may not be visible, it may still be present in your home and cause subtle respiratory issues. Respirators or facemasks are always mandatory after a house fire. Let your professional restoration company’s contractors decide whether or not they are necessary.
Whether its water damage, fire damage, mold damage or even biohazard remediation, small scale or a large loss, you can rely on SERVPRO of Plantation's qualified Mold, Fire and water damage specialists to give you peace of mind knowing we'll arrive faster to your disaster and make it "Like it never even happened". Call us anytime at 954-733-1006
24/7 Emergency Service
