Holiday Fire Safety Tips for Toledo East Residents

12/5/2024 (Permalink)

The holiday season brings joy to Toledo East families, but it also increases fire risks with decorations, cooking, and holiday lights. Stay safe this season with these fire prevention tips:

1. Keep flammable decorations away from heat sources, including candles and fireplaces.
2. Inspect holiday lights for frayed wires, and unplug them when unattended.
3. Avoid overloading electrical outlets with multiple devices.

If fire damage does occur, SERVPRO of Toledo East is here to restore your home quickly and efficiently. Our professionals are available 24/7 to help you get back to normal.

Fire Facts: A Practical Guide to Restoring Toledo West with SERVPRO

11/21/2023 (Permalink)

Date: Nov 21, 2023

Did you know that in the United States, fire departments respond to a fire every 23 seconds, as reported by the National Fire Protection Association? Fires bring chaos, leaving homes and businesses in disarray. It's during these challenging times that the ins and outs of fire damage restoration become crucial. Join us as we explore the essential steps in this journey, led by the pros at SERVPRO of Toledo West, committed to aiding our community in the aftermath of fire disasters.

Dealing with Fire Damage in Toledo West

Fire damage restoration is a careful process managed by dedicated professionals, aiming to restore properties affected by fire and smoke to their preloss condition. This journey isn't just time-consuming; it's a multitasking effort, tackling diverse challenges posed by fire and water damage.

The Double Whammy: Fire and Water Damage

In Toledo West, fires are tackled with water, a necessary but potentially damaging solution. As our local fire department battles blazes, structures get drenched, sometimes causing pipes to burst or melt. This introduces water into the structure, compounding the challenges. The combined impact of fire and water damage underscores the need for a speedy and expert response.

Once the property is secured, immediate action is taken to address the primary concern – water removal. This not only prevents further damage but also sets the stage for a thorough restoration process.

Unveiling the Restoration Process

1. Assessment of Damage

Before the restoration journey kicks off, professionals ensure official approval to enter the property safely. A detailed assessment of fire and water damage is conducted, gauging the extent of penetration and evaluating cleanup requirements. This sets the stage for a personalized and effective restoration plan.

2. Security, Debris Removal, and Boarding Up

Post-assessment, securing the property is crucial. Fencing is installed, debris is cleared, and openings are boarded up to prevent further damage. Meticulous efforts isolate unaffected areas, ensuring minimal cross-contamination.

3. Demolition, Water Removal & Dry Out

To counter mold and corrosion, the focus shifts to removing water and drying the property. Personal items are cleared, damaged materials stripped down, and water extraction crews use specialized equipment. Throughout, SERVPRO of Toledo West ensures roof tarps play a crucial role in preventing additional water intrusion.

4. Clean Up & Smoke Removal

The intensive cleanup phase is where expertise shines. Meticulous manual labor removes smoke and soot from surfaces. Deodorizing agents eliminate lingering odors, and duct cleaning ensures the removal of settled debris, completing the comprehensive cleanup process.

5. Construction & Restoration

The final stride towards preloss conditions involves necessary repairs and rebuilding. Unsalvageable structures are replaced, covering tasks like roof rebuilding, electrical replacement, drywall, and flooring replacement, and interior restoration.

Your Reliable Partner in Toledo West

In times of crisis, having a trusted ally ensures a smoother and more efficient restoration journey. Committed to assisting our community, SERVPRO of Toledo West stands as a beacon of support, helping homes and businesses rise from the ashes and regain their former glory.

For a complimentary property damage assessment, reach out to SERVPRO of Toledo West.

Contact Information:

[Include contact details for SERVPRO of Toledo West]

Disclaimer: This blog post serves informational purposes only. For personalized advice, consult with a professional.

Understanding the Facts on Fires

4/11/2023 (Permalink)

We are "here to help" handle your home or business's fire damage restoration needs!

The unpredictable nature of fires can lead to so much devastation and loss for your home or business.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, there are around 346,800 house fires per year causing on average 2,620 fatalities.

Understanding the facts when it comes to fires can help you to better prepare your family and employees in case of disaster.

General Fire Facts & Stats

- Cooking is the leading cause of house fires, followed by:

• Heating
• Electrical Systems & Equipment
• Candles
• Smoking

- In 2020, fire and lightning insurance claims had the highest average payout of $77,340.

- On average, across the US, a fire department responded to a fire every 23 seconds in 2021.

- In 2021, there were 1,353,500 fires reported, including residential and non-residential structures.

- In 2020, per 1,000 fires, the national average was 2 deaths and 8 injuries.

Ohio Fire Facts & Stats

- Ohio has the 7th most fatal home fires per capita in relation to the other 50 states, with Texas being the first.

- Smoking is the top cause of fire deaths in the state of Ohio, making up 20% of fatalities.

It's difficult and scary to imagine your home or business experiencing a fire. It can be hard to determine where to start when a disaster like this occurs.

If your home or business falls victim to a fire, SERVPRO of Toledo West is "here to help." Our experienced technicians handle the care and restoration of your property and its contents. We handle the cleanup and the reconstruction, so you don't have to worry about juggling multiple companies.

If you find yourself in need of fire damage restoration, give us a call today!

Identifying Different Types of Smoke Damage

8/8/2022 (Permalink)

We help identify the type of smoke damage and treat it accordingly!

Smoke and soot can spread worse than a fire, leaving hidden damage and odor that can take forever to be rid of. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allow 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 Toledo West 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

Smoke and fire damage can differ per situation. Our professionals have the equipment and expertise to handle whatever kind of damage you experience.

Contact us today! 419-757-8643

Develop a Fire Evacuation Plan to Keep Your Family Safe

8/8/2022 (Permalink)

Nobody wants to even think about a fire starting and spreading through their home, but it is important to be prepared in case an emergency does arise. Developing a fast and seamless evacuation plan is crucial to keeping your family members safe. Designing and practicing the plan can help ensure that everyone is prepared in case of a disaster. Here are the most essential components of a home evacuation plan:

1. Escape Routes

Indicating designated escape routes within your home will help to avoid confusion and help make for faster thinking. Take note of all the exits in your house, including doors and windows. It’s preferable to indicate two escape routes for each room so that everyone has more options to get out safely in the event of a home fire.

1. Smoke Alarms

Be sure to check that all smoke alarms are functioning properly. There should be one installed in each bedroom as well as outside of each sleeping area. Smoke alarms must also be present on each level of the house, including the basement. Having the right number of functioning alarms in your home is a vital aspect of basic fire preparation.

1. Meeting Area

It is important to designate a meeting place, especially because your family may be confused or panicked after escaping your home. This meeting place will allow you to be sure that everyone made it out okay. Examples of a meeting area include:

• Mailbox
• Street sign
• Light post
• Another house far away from yours

Be sure that the meeting place is sufficiently far from your home and clearly indicate it to all of your family members.

1. Practice

The most effective way to ensure that everyone follows the plan in a real emergency is to practice it repeatedly. Conducting drills will help familiarize your family with the plan, so it comes naturally in case of a fire. When everyone is prepared, they can react calmly and stay safe.

Creating a reliable fire escape plan is only the first step towards recovering from a fire. To have your home return to its normal state, contact us at SERVPRO of Toledo West.

Prevent Electrical Fires in Just Two Steps!

8/2/2022 (Permalink)

An electrical fire might be far down on your list of worries. “My home is safe, that wouldn’t happen to me.” But, electrical fires can happen to anyone. With over 51,000 fires happening every year, there's a chance that you are at risk, even if you’re unaware of any points of potential danger. But there’s no need to worry! We’re here to let you know what you can do to prevent fire damage to your home!

1. Check Your Power Cords and Outlets Regularly

This is the easiest step you can adapt. Power cords are often put in the wrong places, or plugged in improperly. Power cords can be tripping hazards, so it is important to keep your cords organized and out of walkways. Power cords should not be kept under carpets, or anywhere that they will be consistently stepped on. Power cords can fray with constant pressure, which increases the risk of a fire.

2. Check Electrical Wiring

This second step is not as easy, but just as important. Every month or so, checking the wiring around your house can be a good way to prevent fires. Look for any loose or general abnormalities with your wiring. It's also a good idea to listen for crackling or sizzling sounds behind halls. If you notice any sizzling, be sure to turn off the source and contact a professional. 

Despite taking these precautions, accidents can happen. If you experience fire damage, make sure to call the experts at SERVPRO of Toledo West to repair your fire damage. We’ll make it like it never even happened!

Contact us today! 419-757-8643

Understanding Kitchen Fire Risks and How to Prevent Them

8/2/2022 (Permalink)

For some, cooking is a fun hobby and something to enjoy. For others, cooking is tedious and tiresome. And for a few, cooking should probably be avoided at all cost. No matter what category you fall into, it is important to understand how easily kitchen fires can start. Cooking can become mundane, even if you enjoy it, which can lead to inattention and accidents. Keep these five tips in mind next time you cook to avoid the risk of a kitchen fire!

• Never leave cooking unattended. Whether your frying, broiling, or searing, it is important to keep an eye out to be sure nothing is burning or catching fire. If you have to leave the room, turn off the burner on your stove. Nobody wants burnt food, and nobody wants a kitchen fire.
• Timers are your best friend in the kitchen. Not only do they prevent food from being overcooked or burning, but they also remind you that something is still cooking! After a long day at work, it can be easy to forget even something you were just focused on.
• Keep your kids away from the kitchen area. It is important to educate your children on the dangers that come with a stove and oven. Kids are curious, so it is important to establish a safe boundary where they can watch, but can’t play.
• Keep flammable kitchen items, like pot holders, dish towels, or curtains, away from stoves and ovens. Remember that your sleeves or hair may also catch fire, so be cautious of how you dress while cooking.
• Prevent grease build up by cleaning surfaces regularly.

Accidents happen! If you do experience damage from a kitchen fire, be sure to call our experts at SERVPRO of Toledo West for your professional clean up! 

Your Five Step Plan to Prepare Before a Fire

7/8/2022 (Permalink)

While you take the necessary steps to prevent fires in your Toledo West home, sometimes things happen that are out of our control. In those instances, you need to already have a plan in place. Here are five things you can do to be ready should there be a fire in your home.  

1. Maintain Your Smoke Alarms Properly

This includes making sure your smoke alarms are in the proper places, have fresh batteries, and are tested at least once a month to make sure they are ready to alert you in case of danger.  

1. Ensure You Have an Exit Plan  

Develop an exit strategy with your family. Keep in mind that you should have at least two exit options so that if a fire is blocking one, there is another option for everyone to use. Make sure everyone in your household knows these exits like the backs of their hands.  

1. Have Emergency Contacts

Picking an emergency contact is vital to ensure the safety of your entire family, especially if a family member were to get separated. Make sure that your kids especially memorize the phone number of a neighbor, or a family member who lives close to ensure that they have a safe place to go.  

1. Practice

Practice makes perfect when it comes to fire safety. During a real fire, emotions or panic can make it difficult to think. You should run drills every four to six months, so that, in the event of a fire, everyone knows what to do like second nature, despite the emotions and panic.

1. Calling 911

Make sure everyone in the family knows to call 911 and can recite their address so the first responders can get there as soon as possible. 

A Safer Kitchen in Just Four Steps

7/8/2022 (Permalink)

Cooking can be a fun and social task, but without caution or care, it can lead to disaster. In order to keep you, your family, and your home safe, it is important to understand the best safety practices when in the kitchen.  

1. Always Be Present When Food Is Cooking 

Never leave cooking food unattended. Kitchen fires can grow quickly, especially when there are no eyes present to catch them when they start. The most common causes of kitchen fires are inattention and distraction. If you need to work, consider bringing a phone or laptop into the kitchen to keep an eye on what’s cooking.  

2. Keep Children Away from the Stove

Not only is this important to keep your food from ending up on the floor, it is vital to communicate with your children the dangers of a stove, even when there is nothing cooking. Kids love to play with anything they can get their hands on, especially things they see their parents “playing” with. Keep your children away from stoves entirely to avoid unhappy accidents.

3. Regular Cleaning

It is easy for small pieces of food to fall into burners or be left behind in your oven. Although these individual scraps are essentially harmless beyond the occasional smell, a buildup can lead to a fire. Thankfully, cleaning your oven or stove top is a simple task you can do in just a few minutes.  

4. Keeping Appliances in Order

Not all kitchen fires originate from stoves or ovens. With the amount of kitchen appliances used today, from toasters to rice cookers to air fryers, your outlets can fill up quickly. When this happens, DO NOT plug in an extension cord or power strip. With all the commotion that comes with cooking, water can easily cause a short circuit, especially with a power extender, which can lead to a fire.

Following these easy four steps can keep the kitchen and cooking fun. However, if you find yourself in need of fire damage restoration after an accident in Toledo West, give SERVPRO a call!  

Contact us today! 419-750-6182

Smoke, Soot, and Fire Damage Cleanup In Toledo

8/25/2021 (Permalink)

If you have smoke, soot, or fire damage in your Toledo home, call SERVPRO of Toledo West today!

Smoke and soot are very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allow 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 Toledo West 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.

Being Fire Ready

8/25/2021 (Permalink)

If you need fire damage repair in Toledo, call SERVPRO of Toledo West today!

Practicing fire safety is one of the best methods that individuals can use to keep themselves and their households protected against a disaster. Fires can happen for a plethora of reasons, but by implementing prevention tips, their likelihood of occurring is significantly reduced.

There is an abundance of fire safety information around the internet, but much of it is in different locations. To make researching and practicing fire safety easier, we put it together in one place for your ease of reference.

Tips to Know About Fire Safety

Frequently Check Smoke Detectors. Having a working smoke alarm system in your home is the top tip that experts recommend for fire safety. Smoke alarms significantly reduce the chance of becoming injured in a fire and can alert the entire household at once if it is time to escape.

Have a Fire Escape Plan Evacuating the house quickly if the smoke alarm sounds is essential due to how quickly fires can spread. Make sure everyone in the household is aware of their options for escape routes and rehearse your evacuation regularly.

Know How to Operate a Fire Extinguisher. Keeping a fire extinguisher stored in a convenient location and knowing how to use it will give you the power to put out a fire before it gets out of hand if it is safe to do so. Make sure to purchase the correct classification for the type of fire you are likely to experience.

Never Leave Flames Unattended. Many of us encounter open flames every day on a small scale, such as when a gas stove is turned on or a candle is lit. Though small, these flames still have a large potential for error, and they should never be left in a room unsupervised as they can quickly spread.

Keep a Closed-Door Policy. The deadliest fires are the ones that break out during the early morning hours, mostly due to the reduced reaction time of sleeping family members. However, one keyway to combat this is by closing bedroom doors before going to sleep. The door can slow down flames, allowing more time for everyone to execute the escape plan.

Having a Home Evacuation Plan

8/25/2021 (Permalink)

If you suffered fire damage in your Toledo home, contact SERVPRO of Toledo West today!

If a fire spreads through your home in the communities in and around Summit County, you need to ensure that everyone evacuates as quickly as possible. To keep the evacuation fast and seamless, it’s crucial to create a home fire escape plan. Designing and practicing the plan with your family members helps everyone be prepared in case of a real fire. Here are the most essential components of a home evacuation plan.

1. Escape Routes

To prevent any confusion, it’s important to designate several escape routes in your home. Take note of all the exits in your house, including doors and windows. It’s preferable to indicate two escape routes for each room so that everyone has more options to get out safely in the event of a home fire.

2. Smoke Alarms

Next, you should make sure that all of the smoke alarms in your home are functioning properly. There should be one installed in each bedroom as well as outside of each sleeping area. Smoke alarms must also be present on each level of the house, including the basement. Having the right number of functioning alarms in your home is a vital aspect of basic fire preparation.

3. Meeting Area

Once you’ve planned the fire escape routes and checked your alarms, you need to designate a meeting place outdoors where your family can converge. Examples of a meeting area include:

• Mailbox
• Street sign
• Light post
• Another house far away from yours

Be sure that the meeting place is sufficiently far from your home and clearly indicate it to all of your family members.

4. Practice

The most effective way to ensure that everyone follows the plan in a real emergency is to practice it repeatedly. Make sure to conduct drills in your home and familiarize your kids with the evacuation plan. When everyone is prepared, they can react calmly and stay safe in case of a real fire.
Creating a reliable fire escape plan is only the first step towards recovering from a fire. To have your home return to its normal state, contact emergency restoration services as soon as possible.

Common Causes of House Fires

8/25/2021 (Permalink)

If you've suffered fire damage in Toledo, and need fire damage repair, call SERVPRO of Toledo today!

Fires happen all the time in Toledo. When you are the one the fire is happening to, you want to figure out its cause and how to get back to the way things were before. Understanding some of the most common causes of small house fires is an excellent start to keeping yourself safer throughout the year. Overloaded power outlets provide a perfect storm for sparks or electrical arcs to catch nearby materials on fire. Stressed outlets are a primary cause of many household fires.

When your Toledo home is fire damaged, you need to find out why it happened. Our SERVPRO team can help you to clean up the mess and restore the damage, but also has the experience to help you determine where the fire originated from based on the severity of the damages. As common as overloaded electrical boxes are, it remains one of the leading causes of accidental house fires. You need to know how to operate your power outlets within safe parameters. This information can potentially save your house from damages, but more importantly, save your life.

People ask too much of their power outlets all the time, but this gets even worse around the holidays. When you combine indoor and outdoor lights, the tree, and other decorations in with already stressed power sources, you are brewing a recipe for disaster. To make matters worse, the spark of a fire can occur from this overloaded outlet at any time.

The sooner you respond to restoring your home after fire damages the better. Our experienced SERVPRO professionals can clean up the damages and bring the structure and contents of the room back to preloss conditions. The longer that you wait, the more likely that smoke and soot damages seat themselves into your furniture, flooring, and walls. This spells a higher insurance claim to cover the repair costs, or worse yet, more out-of-pocket expenses if you are underinsured.

How To Get Rid of That Smokey Smell After a Fire

7/21/2021 (Permalink)

For the best smoke and soot damage restoration in Western Toledo, call SERVPRO today!

The danger has passed, the fire is out, but that doesn’t mean you’re done. If you’ve suffered fire damage and need fire damage repair in Western Toledo, it’s best to call the experts as SERVPRO to sort it out. But what if you’ve dealt with everything yourself, yet are somehow left with that ashy, sooty smell that lingers after a fire? Well, there are several things you can do to get rid of that smell.  

The first way involves baking soda and is quite simple, as well as being inexpensive. Because baking soda is a natural odor absorber, take several bowls of it and place it around your house for several days and it slowly will absorb a lot of the smell. You can also do this with activated charcoal, and weather permitting, you can open all your doors and windows to try and get the smell out faster.  

Another step you can take is washing your clothes with white vinegar, which will help get rid of the odors. If, after the first wash, the smell remains, you can go ahead and repeat the process again and that should do it.  

For cleaning walls and furniture, it’s just best to call a professional clean up company in your area, like SERVPRO of Toledo West for all your fire restoration and clean up needs! 

Smoke and Soot Remediation in Western Toledo

7/19/2021 (Permalink)

Soot damage is no fun, contact SERVPRO of Toledo West for your soot damage cleanup needs!

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 Toledo West 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.

Our House Is On Fire: A Walk Through, Part 1

8/14/2019 (Permalink)

Our house is on fire. 

Those are some of the last words you want to hear out of your spouse’s mouth, yet here I was listening to them through the phone at work.  I’m fairly certain I broke many laws on the drive home.  I knew he and our son were safe because it was the middle of the afternoon and we were all gone to our respective places doing what we do every day.  Our dog though, he was at home.  Trapped.  I was frantically dialing my mom repeatedly until she picked up so I could have her check on the dog.  (Don’t worry, my mom was already with him and the fireman who was giving him oxygen. Good Samaritans kicked in the door to rescue him and after a brief stay at the vet he was on the mend.)  

When you hear those words there is a period of time that surreal envelopes you.  You’re in a fog and moving by an unseen force.  Once you set eyes on your house, your home - the place you raised your children and your family celebrated life - and you see the many fire fighters working diligently to put out the flames or giving oxygen to your animals that were able to be saved, that surrealness gives way to grief.  Very heavy grief.  You hear the shattering glass and can picture which item it is that’s breaking.  You hear the firefighters tearing cabinets off the walls and your grandmother’s dishes hitting what was once your kitchen floor.  You hear them tearing into walls to make sure they got the fire completely out.  There is nothing that can prepare you for this feeling.   

So, what would be the first thing you do in a situation like this?  What are the things that should be at the top of your to-do list, right now?  This is what I did:  

• Collect yourself - Now is not the time for emotions to control you.  Take a deep breath, accept what has happened, and get to work. 
• Find your fireproof safe - If you have one, locate your fireproof safe and remove your important documents and items to take with you. 
• Call your insurance company - Call your insurance company and file a claim. They will give you a claim number and more than likely let you know an adjuster will contact you once the claim has been assigned.  They may also have an inspection done to determine the cause of the fire to determine coverage for the loss. 
• Alternative Living Expenses - Make sure you ask your insurance company about Alternative Living Expenses.  If you have it on your policy, your insurance company should be able to help you secure housing.  You’re going to need somewhere to stay.  Depending on how bad your damage is, it may take several months before you are able to move back home.  The fire department will also give you information on Red Cross and ask if you’d like them to contact them on your behalf.   
• Get it boarded up/tarped - Arrange to have the home secured.  More than likely windows and/or doors have been blown out or kicked in and your roof may have been affected.  You’ll need to secure the home to protect whatever you may have that is salvageable from falling victim to the weather or someone entering the property. 
• Call your doctor and pharmacy - Contact your doctor’s office and pharmacy regarding your medications.  Any medication you had may not be able to be used any longer.  Your doctor and pharmacy can help you make that determination and get those prescriptions replaced. 
• Have utilities shut off - The fire chief will let you know when they are satisfied the fire is completely out and have a final discussion with you before they leave.  Be sure to ask if the power and gas will need to be shut off or if they had already ordered it to be done.  If you have a small kitchen fire that fills up your home with smoke and doesn't do any other damage this won’t be necessary.  For a larger fire, say a total loss, you will definitely want to make sure this is done. 
• Give yourself time - Allow yourself time to grieve.  This is part of the process people don’t usually talk about.  When it comes to fires with a lot of damage or a total loss, you’ve just experienced a major life change and loss.  You will feel a whole host of emotions and there is going to be grief, and quite possibly a lot of it.  Give yourself time, process it, but don’t dwell in it.  The longer you stay in that phase the harder it’s going to be to do what you need to do. 

Fire Bug Out Bags

12/1/2017 (Permalink)

Have you ever heard of a Bug Bag? A Bug out bag is something you can grab in a hurry to help you survive. One of the best reasons to have a bug out bag is in the case of a home fire. Why you may ask? Well, home fire can start with just a small flame and turn into a fully engulfed structure in just a matter of minutes leaving you only seconds to escape.

A Bug Out Bag can be as elaborate or as simple as you wish but for the purpose of this article we are suggesting to keep it simple. This bag should be kept within reach, such as next to your AND your children's beds. If a fire was to strike in the middle of the night you want quick access.

In the bag you should consider some type of fire hood. On the high-end is the iEvac Certified Smoke/Fire Hood. It protects against toxic gasses such as carbon monoxide (the number one cause of death and injury in a fire), smoke, hydrogen sulfide, chlorine, ammonia, hydrogen cyanide, sulfur dioxide, tear gas and more. There are several options out there and a little research goes a long way.

Next we suggest a fire Blanket and a Flashlight.

Another great addition is a whistle! I know this may sound strange but if you are trapped and can not escape on your own blowing a simple whistle will help to alert firemen to where you are located. 

This bag is simply for you to get out alive! 

Remember to have a plan!

Talk to your children !

Practice your escape routes! 

And most importantly ALWAYS Make sure you have working smoke detectors in you home.

Deep Fried Turkey

12/1/2017 (Permalink)

If you have ever had deep fried turkey you might never want to go back to oven roasted again. There is  just something about the crispy skin and the juicy meat that just melts in your mouth. If you are considering trying this method out for the first time, make sure you do your research. It is a delicious end result but you don't want to burn your house down in the process! 

Here's a few safety tips:

1. Always use your turkey fryer outdoors, away from anything flammable.

2. Place fryer on a flat surface.

3.Place the propane tank and fryer so that any wind blows the heat away from the heat source. 

5. NEVER overfill the fryer, the container must be large enough to hold the turkey with enough oil to cover it.

4. Make sure your Turkey is thawed completely. Thoroughly pat the turkey dry as  hot oil and water will cause extreme splattering.

5. Turn Off the heat source before placing the turkey into the hot oil, this way if they oil does overflow there is no flame to ignite. Once Turkey is safely in the oil you can then again lite the burner.

6.Check the oil temperature frequently. If the oil begins to smoke, immediately turn the gas supply OFF. (If you don't watch it carefully, the oil may catch fire).

7. Never leave your fryer unattended.

The oil will remain dangerously hot for quite some time after you have turned off your burner and removed your turkey. Please keep children and pets away from hot oil! 

 These suggestions are not a complete list of every loss control measure. The information is not intended to replace manuals or instructions provided by the manufacturer or the advice of a qualified professional.   And as always follow the manufactures recommendations on the turkey fryer.

Prevent Kitchen Fires

11/29/2017 (Permalink)

It is that time of year again. Holiday madness, holiday parties, fun, food and drink. One thing to be mindful of as we are preparing our holiday feasts is safety in the kitchen. Kitchen fires seem to peak during the holidays. Take a minute to revue these 10 simple steps to help keep your holiday dinner from going up in flames.

1. Never leave your cooking unattended – stay in the kitchen when frying, grilling or broiling food. If you have to leave the kitchen, even for a second, turn off the stove.

2. Check your food regularly while cooking and remain in the home while cooking.

3. Use a timer so you’ll remember that the stove or oven is on.

4. Don’t wear loose clothing or dangling sleeves while cooking.

5. Keep the kids away from the cooking area. Enforce a “kid-free zone” and make them stay at least three feet away from the stove.

6. Keep anything that can catch fire - pot holders, oven mitts, wooden utensils, paper or plastic bags, food packaging, and towels or curtains—away from your stove, oven or any other appliance in the kitchen that generates heat.

7. Clean cooking surfaces on a regular basis to prevent grease buildup.

8. Consider purchasing a fire extinguisher to keep in your kitchen. Contact your local fire department to take training on the proper use of extinguishers.

9. Always check the kitchen before going to bed or leaving the home to make sure all stoves, ovens, and small appliances are turned off.

10. 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.

Leave The Cleaning To us

11/29/2017 (Permalink)

Recently I was reading an article written on the IICRC web site. I found it very informative. The Institute of Cleaning, Restoration Certification( IICRC) is a certification and standard-setting nonprofit organization for the inspection, cleaning and restoration industries. The IICRC serves serves the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia and Japan, in partnership with regional and international trade associations.

Why Professionals Should Clean Smoke Damage From A Fire  

When the firefighters leave, it may seem like the danger has passed and the home is safe from further destruction, but without professionals to help clean the smoke damage, the building will never return to normal. While the principles behind fire restoration are fairly simple, it requires a lot of experience and manpower to perform adequately, and this means that it shouldn’t be attempted by a homeowner on his or her own.

While fire is always the immediate danger, once it is gone, what it leaves behind will continue to affect the house. Ash and smoke, if left unhindered, will cause extensive corrosion, etching and discoloration, not to mention lingering powerful odors. Professionals that clean fire and smoke damage can stop this before it becomes a major problem, assuming they are contacted soon enough. There are many companies out there that advertise their ability to restore areas affected by fire, but only those with proper training and certification should be considered. The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) is the main oversight agency in this industry. The IICRC requires its registrants to take extensive coursework before earning their certification. This is a symbol of excellence, and those that uphold the standards that have been set can be contacted through the IICRC.

These professionals can clean smoke damage and restore items affected by a fire, but they must be brought to the site as soon as possible to halt the ongoing issues that ash residue can cause. The first thing that ash does to the home is discolor most surfaces. Anything that is made of plastic or was close to the fire will start discoloring within minutes, and within several hours, fiberglass and finishes on appliances will begin to yellow. Metals may also tarnish. After a few days pass, the ash will cause walls to discolor permanently, along with clothing and upholstery. Wood and vinyl will need to be refinished or replaced, and metal will start corroding.

If a professional isn’t hired to clean smoke and fire damage, the costs for restoration will skyrocket after a few weeks. Metals may need to be replaced, carpet will permanently discolor and glass may be severely etched, which will necessitate replacement. It will also become apparent that the odors caused by the disaster may still be present and intense enough to be distracting. Because ash is acidic, the longer it takes to hire experts, the more destruction it will cause.

The first thing a trained, certified, professional company will do when on site is to identify all affected materials and the source of any odors. The only way to properly clean smoke and fire damage is to be extremely thorough. Ash residue is easily disturbed and can spread through the building with ease, causing nearly everything to need restoration. The experts will identify what can and cannot be salvaged, and will remove any built-up ash residue that is coating surfaces. Over time, ash builds up in layers, and may eventually form into a lacquer-like consistency. Once this is done, the restorers will locate the source of the odor, and treat it with specialized detergents that are formulated for neutralizing this kind of odor. Once materials are treated, they may be sealed off to prevent any further odor from permeating the air in the future.

This entire process is very detailed, and hiring a professional that can be trusted to do the job right is imperative.

Christmas Fire Safety Tips

11/28/2017 (Permalink)

Christmas Fire Safety Tips

With the Christmas holiday upon us, now is a good time to review some fire safety tips to help you and your family stay safe while celebrating the holiday.  With the hustle and bustle of the holiday also comes dinners with family, candles, decorations, and don’t forget the Christmas tree!  Some simple prevention steps can aid in helping you prevent a fire in your home.

• Did you know that half of holiday decoration fires are due to decorations being placed too close to a heat source?  Make sure when you decorate to keep those decorations a safe distance from fireplaces, candles, stoves, and any other heat source. 
• Be sure you check out those lights before you hang them.  Look for frayed or damaged cords, if your lights have them throw them away!
• If you prefer a live tree, make sure you water it every day.  A dry tree is a dangerous tree.
• If you use candles, consider the flameless option.  They can give the same ambiance as a real candle and there are even ones that smell!  If you do use the real thing, make sure they are in stable holders and are put somewhere they can’t be knocked over or are placed too close to something which may catch fire.
• Keep an eye on that stove and be careful of wearing loose clothing while cooking.  Accidents happen and a too flowy sleeve or robe arm can be easily caught by a stovetop flame.
• Let’s talk turkey…deep fried turkey.  If your preference is a deep fried bird, make sure you thoroughly thaw it before dunking it in the hot oil.  It will cause spatter that often leads to fire, and if you’re in the garage that’s not good.
• Speaking of the garage, you probably shouldn’t be frying that bird in the garage.  Find an open spot a safe distance away from structures. 

For more fire safety tips visit usfa.fema.gov

Stay Warm, Stay Safe

11/28/2017 (Permalink)

There is something about the winter months and curling up with a good book by the fireplace. But did you know that heating equipment is one of the leading causes of home fire deaths? With a few simple safety tips and precautions you can prevent most heating fires from happening. Like They say " An ounce of Prevention is worth a pound of cure"!

• Keep anything that can burn atleast three-feet away fromheating equipment, like thefurnace, fireplace, woodstove, or portable space heater.Have a three-foot “kid-free zone”around open fires and space heaters.

• Never use your oven to heat your home.
• Have a qualified professional install stationary space heating equipment, water heaters or central heating equipment according to the local codes and manufacturer’s instructions.

• Have heating equipment and chimneys cleaned andinspected every year by a qualified professional.

• Remember to turn portable heaters off whenleaving the room or going to bed.

• Always use the right kind of fuel, specified by the manufacturer, for fuel burning space heaters.

• Make sure the fireplace has a sturdy screen to stop sparks from flying into the room. Ashes should be cool before putting them in a metal container. Keep the container a safe distance away from your home.

• Test smoke alarms monthly.